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 Fairfield Realty, 2700 Washburn Way. Call them at 541-238-5532.
Friday, August 21, 2026
Klamath Basin Weather
Red Flag Warning in effect from Saturday, Aug. 22nd, 2pm-10pm
This Afternoon
Cloudy, with a high near 88. South wind 15 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph. Overnight, cloudy, low near 54.
Saturday
Sunny, with a high near 85. Light and variable wind becoming west 11 to 16 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 24 mph.
Sunday
Sunny, with a high near 87. Light and variable wind.
Monday
Sunny, with a high near 89.
Tuesday
Sunny, with a high near 88.
Wednesday
Sunny, with a high near 86.
Today’s Klamath Falls Headlines
Containment reaches 60% for the Wrights Spring Fire
Fire crews tell us The Wrights Spring Fire is now 60% contained and the burnt acreage is over 54,000 acres.
Fire Northwest Team 7 is assuming command as of Friday, August 21st. Crews are being relocated from Chiloquin spike camp to the Bliss Road Incident Command Post and crews continued working on control lines across the fire.
Crews will ensure areas of the fire remain controlled and continue mop up operations. Crews will be working on increasing containment down around Horton Rim and Horton Reservoir. Crews had to deal with a half-acre human caused fire north of the Wrights Spring Fire.
Officials remind the public that unauthorized drone usage is prohibited, as it stalls firefighting aircraft from critical water drops and other firefighting efforts.
Updated on August 21, 2026 at 2PM
…FOR THE VERY LATEST UPDATES ON THE WRIGHTS SPRING FIRE, ALSO SEE OUR BasinLife Facebook Page.
For the November 3, 2026 General Election, Mark Cross officially filed on August 21, 2026 for the office of City Council, Ward 5 for the City of Klamath Falls.
the City of Klamath Falls or area annexed to City continuously during the four (4) years
immediately preceding the election; must be a resident within the Ward District filed for; and must
meet state requirements to run for elected office. The deadline to file for the General Election is
no later than August 25, 2026 by 3:00 p.m.
Nickole Barrington at the phone number/email address listed above, or in person at 500 Klamath
Avenue, in order to obtain the necessary election information and filing forms.
Clifford Foster officially submitted his candidacy for the City Council position in Ward 5 of Klamath Falls for the upcoming General Election on November 3rd.
He completed the process by filing an Affidavit of Nomination and paying the required $25.00 fee, making him the first candidate to file for this office in the November election.
According to the City Charter, candidates must have been residents of Klamath Falls or any annexed area for at least four years prior to the election, reside within the specific Ward they are contesting, and fulfill state eligibility criteria for elected positions.
The final date for filing for the General Election is set for August 25th at 3:00 p.m. Individuals interested in running for Council positions in Wards 3, 4, or 5 are encouraged to reach out to City Recorder Nickole Barrington via the provided contact details or visit the office at 500 Klamath Avenue to acquire the necessary election information and filing forms.
On Thursday, August 20, at approximately 9:13 a.m., deputies from the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office and fire personnel were dispatched to the vicinity of Hill Road and Crystal Springs Road in response to reports of an aircraft crash.
Initial reports suggest that a single-engine, fixed-wing aircraft, operated by Gus Macy, was engaged in an agricultural pesticide application flight when it apparently collided with a Basin Mediactive Radio tower.
Following the impact, the aircraft crashed to the ground and ignited. A nearby witness promptly rushed to the scene and managed to rescue Macy from the burning wreckage prior to the arrival of emergency responders.
Macy suffered significant injuries and was subsequently transported to Sky Lakes Medical Center for medical attention. The investigation into the circumstances of the crash is ongoing, and further information will be provided as it becomes available and appropriate.
The Klamath Tribes are set to celebrate their 40th annual Restoration Powwow this weekend, honoring the restoration of federal recognition for the Klamath, Modoc, and Yahooskin bands of the Snake Indians.
This event, which takes place on the fourth weekend of August, serves as a significant commemoration of the tribe’s journey, having lost federal recognition in 1954 and subsequently regaining it on August 27, 1986, through Public Law 99-398.
Tribal officials are currently considering the relocation of certain events for this year’s powwow, with updates to be shared on the Klamath Tribes’ official website and Facebook page. Additionally, the Klamath Tribes’ transportation department, Quail Trail, will offer complimentary rides to attendees, with the schedule accessible online.
The host drum group for this year is Tha Cree, and grand entries are planned for 7 p.m. on Friday, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, and 1 p.m. on Sunday, with various special events scheduled throughout the weekend.
Concerns are mounting regarding the potential death of hundreds of thousands of birds in Klamath County, following the declaration of drought over three months ago.
The Bird Alliance of Oregon has raised alarms about the Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge, which may be on the verge of another botulism outbreak, reminiscent of the 2024 incident that resulted in the loss of approximately 140,000 birds at this critical stopover along the Pacific Flyway.
Experts indicate that the adverse conditions have persisted for several years, exacerbating the current crisis. The Bird Alliance of Oregon urges the Bureau of Reclamation and the Department of the Interior to expedite the release of additional water, warning that failure to act could lead to an even more severe situation than experienced two years prior.
They are encouraging the public to contact government officials and representatives to advocate for increased water allocations.
As the population of Oregon ages, the Klamath & Lake Counties Council on Aging is gearing up for what its leaders characterize as a significant shift in service demand.
Recently, the nonprofit organization unveiled its 2026-29 Area Plan, a comprehensive 231-page strategic document that outlines its approach to addressing the growing need for services in one of Oregon’s largest and most rural regions. This plan transcends a mere compliance requirement of the Older Americans Act; it serves as a framework for the organization’s priorities and operations, developed through extensive demographic research and collaboration with local partners.
Emphasizing community engagement with the senior population, KLCCOA’s executive director, Melodi McGee, stated that the primary objective is to enable older adults to live independently and with dignity in their homes while providing them with optimal support. As the designated Area Agency on Aging for Klamath and Lake counties, KLCCOA coordinates a variety of services, including home-delivered meals, congregate dining, caregiver support, case management, health promotion programs, Oregon Project Independence, veteran-directed care, and information and referral services.
The plan underscores the importance of assisting older adults and individuals with disabilities in maintaining their health, connectivity, and independence in their homes for as long as possible.
Collaborative Effort Aims to Deliver Water to Klamath Basin Wildlife Refuges
A major collaborative effort is underway to deliver much-needed water to the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuges, providing critical habitat for waterfowl while demonstrating what can happen when agriculture, Tribes, conservation organizations and government agencies work together.
“This is the kind of adaptive, collaborative water management we have been advocating for,” said Scott Seus, president of the Klamath Water Users Association and a farmer near Tulelake, California. “When conditions change and an opportunity emerges to put water to work for the broader Basin, we need to be able to act. That is what is happening now.”
The Bureau of Reclamation administers the federal water supply for the Klamath Project, ensuring legal requirements are met and providing water when conditions allow. Recognizing the critical need for water on the refuges, the Klamath Water Users Association and its Basin partners began working together to find a solution.
“This effort shows what is possible when difficult conversations occur and partners remain engaged in finding solutions,” Seus said.
The effort follows months of discussions among Basin stakeholders. Project irrigators have also faced significant water shortages, with approximately 50,000 acres of farmland idled because of reduced water supplies. As conditions and demands changed, partners began exploring ways limited water could provide broader benefits throughout the Basin.
“KWUA appreciates Reclamation and the Trump Administration for bringing people together and working with Basin partners to put adaptive management into practice,” said Elizabeth Nielsen, executive director of the Klamath Water Users Association. “This would not have been possible without that engagement and the willingness of everyone involved to work through difficult issues for the broader Basin.”
The immediate priority is getting water to the wildlife refuges where it can provide the greatest benefit. If conditions allow later this year, partners hope to expand the effort through a strategy known as Flow-Through.
The concept would use existing Klamath Project infrastructure to move water through agricultural lands and refuge wetlands before allowing it to continue back toward the Klamath River.
“What we’re doing today is an important step toward building the foundation of Flow-Through,” Nielsen said. “The concept has gained tremendous momentum, and we are committed to moving it forward. Right now, the priority is getting water to the refuges. Longer term, we want to build on what we are learning and demonstrate how coordinated water management can benefit wildlife, agriculture, water quality and fisheries.”
KWUA says the water delivery would not be possible without cooperation among numerous organizations and agencies. Flexibility from irrigation districts, participation by Tribes and conservation groups, support from surrounding counties and federal leadership all helped make the effort possible.
“This is about more than saving ducks,” Seus said. “It’s about showing what is possible when people stay at the table, work through difficult issues and respond to changing conditions. We have an opportunity to build on this success and create a more adaptive, collaborative approach to managing water throughout the Klamath Basin.
The Klamath County Commissioners have approved a $10,000 sponsorship for the Ross Ragland Theater following budget challenges faced during the theater’s ballot measure initiative.
This funding will be utilized to host country music artist Coffey Anderson in Klamath Falls, with the performance set for 7:30 p.m. on Friday, September 18. Anderson is recognized for his Christian and patriotic music.
Ticket prices for the event will range from $35 to $100.
Chiloquin Visions in Progress (CVIP) is pleased to announce that Chiloquin Learns After School (CLAS) is gearing up to welcome students for another enriching year filled with learning, creativity, and community engagement.
The free after-school program is now open for registrations for the 2026–2027 school year and invites families, community members, and local businesses to contribute to making this year’s initiative exceptional. CLAS caters to students from kindergarten through sixth grade, offering a secure and nurturing environment where children can continue their educational journey beyond regular school hours.
Participants engage in interactive activities designed to enhance academic skills, foster creativity, promote healthy lifestyles, and build friendships, all while enjoying a nutritious meal in the afternoon. Following a successful 2025–2026 school year marked by increased participation, organizers are eager to accommodate even more students when the program commences in late September or early October.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to register promptly, as spaces are limited. Registration forms can be accessed online or at the CVIP office located in the Chiloquin Community Center.
Klamath Falls Gospel Mission Annual YARD SALE, Friday August 28th & Saturday August 29th
@ 9:00 AM ~ 3:00 PM
Back to School Yard Sale! Great Prices & Great Goods! …For a Great Cause!
All proceeds support Klamath Falls Gospel Mission, 1931 Mission Ave., Klamath Falls, OR 97601
John Denver Tribute Show Concert Coming To Ragland!
Ted Vigil is America’s premier John Denver tribute artist and he’s coming to the Ross Ragland theater on Saturday, October 3rd!
Ted’s show embodies the late great music icon in look as well as voice with an unforgettable performance. He has performed with John Denver’s own lead guitarist, Steve Weisberg, who described Vigil’s performance as “uncanny”.
Ted has performed at John Denver’s own “Windstar Foundation” in Aspen, CO, John Denver’s former home. Performing throughout the country, Ted Vigil has wowed sellout crowds from coast to coast and everywhere in between.
For this wonderful and exciting show, expect to hear John Denver’s most beloved hits, like “Take Me Home, Country Roads’, ‘Leaving on a Jet Plane’, ‘Annie’s Song’, ‘Rocky Mountain High’, ‘Thank God I’m a Country Boy’, ‘Sunshine on My Shoulders’, and many more.
You will definitely not want to miss this performance. Without question, this is the closest you will ever see, or hear, to the great John Denver. Sat, Oct 3rd, 2026 at 7:00 pm. Click to buy tickets for the show at https://www.ragland.org/
Around the State of Oregon
An effort to add constitutional protections for hunting, fishing, farming and other traditional activities in Oregon has cleared an early procedural step on the road toward a possible spot on the November 2028 ballot.
The proposed constitutional amendment, known by supporters as the Oregon Freedom Amendment, would protect the rights of Oregonians to hunt, fish, farm, trap, ranch, grow food, practice what supporters describe as “diligent animal husbandry,” and participate in wildlife management.
The Oregon Secretary of State’s Elections Division has referred Initiative Petition 25 to the state attorney general, beginning the process of developing the measure’s official ballot title and summary.
The referral means supporters have met the initial sponsorship signature requirement required under Oregon election law. State initiative records identify Petition 2028-025 as an amendment designed to protect the rights to hunt, fish, farm, trap, ranch, grow food and participate in wildlife management.
“Putting it in the Constitution really sends a clear message that Oregonians and the Legislature are in support of solidifying these rights,” said Lauren Kuenzi, director of government and political affairs for the Oregon Farm Bureau.
The proposal follows another initiative that sought to significantly expand Oregon’s animal cruelty laws. That measure, IP-28, would have affected activities including hunting, fishing and pest control, but failed to gather enough valid signatures to qualify for the 2026 general election ballot.
Supporters of the Oregon Freedom Amendment say the proposal recognizes the important role that hunting, fishing, agriculture, ranching, trapping, food production, animal husbandry and wildlife management play in Oregon’s communities, economy and natural-resource heritage.
However, the latest development does not mean the measure has qualified for the ballot. The attorney general’s ballot-title process is only an early step. Supporters must still meet additional requirements, including collecting the required number of valid voter signatures, before Oregon voters could see the proposed constitutional amendment on the November 2028 ballot.
2-year-old found dead in Central Point, one hour after reported missing
Detectives are investigating the death of a 2-year-old child in rural Central Point.
According to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, dispatchers received a call for a missing child in the 9900 block of Blackwell Road at 4:30 a.m. Deputies and Oregon State Police troopers arrived and immediately began searching for the child.
The child was found dead at 5:41 a.m. Detectives are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the death, after the child was found on a neighboring property.
The Major Assault and Death Investigation Unit responded to assist. The unit consists of detectives from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, Medford Police Department, Central Point Police Department, Ashland Police Department and the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office.
The case remains open and ongoing with detectives following additional leads.
Four pedestrians struck after SUV rolls over in Springfield crash
SPRINGFIELD, Ore. — Four pedestrians were struck after a two-vehicle crash caused an SUV to roll onto a sidewalk in Springfield on Tuesday afternoon, according to the Springfield Police Department (SPD).
Police responded around 3:16 p.m. on Tuesday, to the intersection of South 35th Street and Oregon Avenue following a report of a crash involving vehicles and pedestrians. A preliminary investigation found that a 2026 Volkswagen SUV traveling west on Oregon Avenue collided with a 2015 Toyota SUV traveling north on South 35th Street.
Three of the four pedestrians were taken by ambulance to a hospital. Police said their injuries ranged from minor to serious but were not considered life-threatening.
Police did not provide information about whether the fourth pedestrian was injured.
Oregon Losing Jobs In July Report
In July, Oregon experienced a decrease of 4,100 jobs in its seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment, following a revised increase of 1,300 jobs in June.
The most significant job losses occurred in professional and business services, which saw a reduction of 1,800 jobs, followed by leisure and hospitality with a decline of 900 jobs, and government, which lost 700 jobs. Conversely, the retail trade sector recorded the largest gain, adding 500 jobs.
Over the past year, the professional and business services sector has shown a slight downward trend, with a total loss of 2,500 jobs, equating to a 1.0% decline.
The majority of this decrease stemmed from the management of companies and enterprises, which eliminated 2,200 jobs, or 4.6%. The other two sub-sectors within this category experienced minimal changes, with professional and technical services gaining 200 jobs (0.2%) and administrative and waste services losing 500 jobs (-0.5%).
In July, the leisure and hospitality sector employed 203,800 individuals, falling short of its average of 207,300 jobs recorded from 2023 to 2025 by 3,500 jobs. This sector has seen a reduction of 3,800 jobs since January, following a relatively stable trend over the previous three years. Despite these recent challenges, the arts, entertainment, and recreation industry within this sector managed to add 200 jobs in July, achieving a record high of 31,300 jobs.
USDA works to remove roadless rule restrictions that exacerbate rising wildfire risks
WASHINGTON, DC, Aug. 18, 2026 – Today, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the U.S. Forest Service has filed a proposed rule to rescind in its entirety the national 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, a one-size-fits-all restriction that has frustrated land managers and served as a barrier to wildfire risk reduction work across large swaths of America’s national forests.
“Our forests can’t afford another decade of inaction. Across the country, we’ve watched preventable conditions – overgrown stands, insect outbreaks and disease – turn healthy landscapes into tinderboxes,” said Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.
“For too long, outdated restrictions have kept tens of millions of forested acres off-limits to the very treatments that improve forest health and reduce wildfire risk to our communities. Today, we filed a proposal to restore authority to local forest managers who know the land best, removing the barriers that have kept them from doing the work the land demands. It’s time to turn the page on the failed roadless rule and return our forests to health and productivity.”
For 25 years, the 2001 Roadless Rule restricted road construction and limited the Forest Service’s ability to carry out critical active management work within inventoried roadless areas. Today, that includes more than 44 million acres of the 193-million-acre National Forest System. The rescission is intended to prioritize local agency decision-making over regulatory rules that are the same across the country, regardless of specific land management issues and needs.
“This proposed rule is commonsense policy sought since the first Trump administration. In the years since, the need for it has only become more apparent,” said Deputy Secretary Stephen A. Vaden. “It is a credit to President Trump that we can begin to put into place a rule that will allow us to properly manage our national forests, because the first step to managing forests is to have access to them.”
The agency will seek public comment on the proposal and on a draft of the environmental impact statement filed today in the Federal Register. The rescission removes national designation of roadless areas but does not mandate timber cutting or road construction. The action removes regulatory burden and sends decisions about roadless areas to the local national forest managers.
“Active forest management is not an option. It’s essential,” said Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz. “More than 40% of inventoried roadless areas, primarily in the West, have high or very high wildfire hazard potential. And only 5% of those areas have received hazardous fuels reduction treatments since 2014. At the same time, more than a quarter of these lands—11.3 million acres—are already near existing roads. Acting now, thoughtfully and decisively, is the best way to restore the balance, reduce wildfire risk, and secure the long-term health of our forests and neighboring communities.”
“For 25 years, the heavy thumb of Washington D.C. has hindered Montana’s ability to properly manage wildfire risk and road development on nearly 60 percent of Forest Service land across the Treasure State,” Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte said. “Today’s long overdue decision will empower states like Montana to pursue proper forest management on federal lands with local communities in mind. I’m grateful to President Donald J. Trump and Secretary Rollins for their strong leadership in restoring common sense to active forest management.”
“Utahns love our forests, and loving these places means taking care of them,” Utah Gov. Spencer J. Cox said. “For 25 years, the Roadless Rule has tied the hands of local land managers with a one-size-fits-all federal policy. Rescinding it restores the flexibility to make thoughtful decisions based on the needs of each forest and each community. We can protect the landscapes we treasure by actively managing them for the next generation.”
“Management of our public lands closer to the people that actually live, work, and play there has been a steady drumbeat of mine during my time as Governor of Wyoming. Proper management includes an opportunity to keep our forests healthy and less prone to fire dangers. Wyoming has demonstrated our commitment to sensible stewardship,” said Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon. “The USDA and USFS, under the leadership of Secretary Rollins and Chief Schultz, are doing great work recognizing our efforts, making this trust a reality by rescinding the 2001 Roadless Rule. This step reflects a commitment to locally-driven, durable planning and empowering those who know these lands the best.”
The proposed rescission reflects the administration’s commitment to return authority to local line officers and ensure they have the tools needed to restore forest health and productivity. The rescission aligns with Executive Order 14192, Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation, to alleviate unnecessary regulatory burdens, Executive Order 14225, Immediate Expansion of American Timber Production, Executive Order 14154, Unleashing American Energy, and Executive Order 14153, Unleashing Alaska’s Extraordinary Resource Potential.
Returning roadless-area decisions to forest-level land management planning provides flexibility the national rule did not. Future land management decisions would be based on natural resource conditions and needs and informed by states, tribes, and communities. Rescinding the rule allows forest managers to address watershed, economic, and wildfire-risk conditions within the sideboards of existing laws, regulations, and policy. That would put those decisions within the same planning framework that guides individual plans throughout the National Forest System.
More than 95% of inventoried roadless areas are in 10 Western states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. The proposed rule does not apply to national forests in Colorado and Idaho because those lands are under separate state-specific roadless regulations.
To comment on the proposed rule and draft environmental impact statement, go to Regulations.gov. Public comments must be received by midnight on Sept. 21. Information will be available Aug. 19 on theForest Service Roadless Areas webpage.
Portland Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Use of a Firearm in Interstate Domestic Violence
A Portland man was sentenced to federal prison today for interstate domestic violence and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
Carlos Miscoot, 28, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison and 5 years’ supervised release, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.
“Domestic violence cases are incredibly serious and important to me,” said U.S. Attorney Bradford. “Domestic violence removes safety from the home and places victims in constant fear. Gun use significantly increases danger. This woman made clear this relationship was over, but Miscoot sought to continue to control and abuse her. We stopped that and are grateful the victim was able to seek help after this horrific crime.”
According to court documents, Miscoot abducted his ex-girlfriend at gunpoint on November 2, 2023. Miscoot and the victim had been broken up for about a year, though Miscoot continued to call, text, and show up at her home unannounced after the relationship ended. On November 2, 2023, Miscoot arranged with the victim to meet outside her home to get back some of his belongings. At her home, Miscoot pulled out a gun and forced the victim into his car.
Miscoot drove her across state lines into a remote area of Washington. During the drive, he continued to point the gun at her and made threatening statements. Miscoot parked in a wooded area and raped the victim, showing and firing the gun to keep her from resisting. After the rape, Miscoot drove the victim back to Portland while continuing to threaten her and warn her not to call the police. Miscoot returned uninvited to the victim’s home less than a week later, which resulted in his arrest.
On June 18, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 3-count indictment charging Miscoot with kidnapping, interstate domestic violence, and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
On May 28, 2026, Miscoot pleaded guilty to interstate domestic violence and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Portland Police Bureau. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mira Chernick.
The West Coast Health Alliance advises individuals to adhere to the 2026 Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics, citing the reliance on evidence-based vaccine guidance.
Additionally, the Alliance encourages pregnant individuals to follow a comparable immunization schedule recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. This coalition comprises health officials from Washington, Oregon, California, and Hawaii.
The increasing liberal state of Oregon is collaborating with 21 attorneys general and the State of Pennsylvania in a legal action aimed at preventing the federal government from accessing commercial driver’s license records maintained by the states.
The American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, a nonprofit organization, manages this database on behalf of the states, which includes sensitive information such as drivers’ Social Security numbers and other personal details.
The lawsuit asserts that the federal government is violating privacy laws and has bypassed essential legal procedures, including the necessary consultations with the states.
Two Pacific Northwest Mothers Win National Prevention Awards as DEA Seattle Recognizes National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day
On Friday, August 21, 2026, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration will join Facing Fentanyl, to unite families, communities, and organizations across the country in recognizing National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day. This year marks the fifth anniversary of the national observance which honors and remembers the lives lost to fentanyl poisoning.
This year’s theme, “Power of the Parent,” recognizes the critical role parents and families play in shaping conversations, raising awareness, and helping protect loved ones. Their voices make a meaningful impact: One Nation. One Fight. Facing Fentanyl. Together.
This day serves as a nationwide call to action to increase awareness to the highly addictive and dangerous drugs containing fentanyl that continue to drive the opioid epidemic and take lives.
Fentanyl-related deaths have declined over the past several years, yet fentanyl remains the leading cause of death among Americans aged 18-45 years old. Last year, DEA intensified its fight against the deadly threat of synthetic opioids with the launch of its Fentanyl Free Americainitiative.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration held its inaugural Fentanyl Free America Summit in Orlando, Florida, last month including leaders in law enforcement, prevention, public health, education, recovery, faith communities, and more than 350 youth – to strengthen the nation’s coordinated response to the fentanyl crisis.
The Fentanyl Free America Awards recognize individuals and organizations, nominated by their peers, for their important work in support of one or more of the three pillars of the Fentanyl Free America Campaign: Protect, Prevent, and Support.
- Protect by disrupting criminal organizations, maintaining a secure controlled substance supply chain, and strengthening public partnerships.
- Prevent overdose and poisoning deaths by expanding evidence-based education, empowering youth leaders, and building sustainable community prevention capacity.
- Support the families and loved ones impacted by fentanyl, engage faith-based communities, and ensure those affected by substance use have pathways to hope and healing.
This year’s Fentanyl Free America Award recipients included two Pacific Northwest mothers who lost their children to fentanyl poisoning. These awardees have demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and measurable impact in protecting communities from the deadly effects of illicit fentanyl.
Sandy Snodgrass and Alaska Fentanyl Response won the organization award for Excellence in Prevention.
Alaska Fentanyl Response is a nationally recognized leader in fentanyl prevention, education, and advocacy whose impact has transformed communities across Alaska and beyond. Founded by clinical psychologist Sandy Snodgrass following the tragic loss of her son, Bruce Snodgrass, to fentanyl poisoning in 2021, Alaska Fentanyl Response has turned personal tragedy into a powerful movement for prevention, education, legislative action, and youth intervention. Sandy Snodgrass has demonstrated extraordinary leadership in the fight against illicit fentanyl by building one of the most impactful grassroots prevention efforts in the country. Drawing on her professional background as a clinical psychologist and her personal experience as a grieving mother, Sandy has developed and delivered science-informed prevention messaging that resonates with students, families, educators, healthcare professionals, and policymakers alike. In partnership with the Drug Enforcement Administration, the organization has delivered more than 50 “One Pill Can Kill” presentations across over 30 schools, directly reaching more than 20,000 students throughout Alaska. These presentations educate middle and high school students about the dangers of counterfeit pills, fentanyl-laced illicit drugs, overdose prevention, and life-saving intervention strategies. Sandy works regularly with the DEA, local government leaders, U.S. Senators, the Alaska Governor, educators, law enforcement, healthcare providers, and community organizations to strengthen prevention infrastructure throughout the state. These partnerships have amplified the organization’s reach and ensured that prevention efforts are coordinated, strategic, and sustainable. Perhaps the organization’s most historic achievement is the passage of Bruce’s Law, named in honor of Sandy’s son. After years of tireless advocacy by Sandy and Alaska Fentanyl Response, the legislation was signed into law by President Donald Trump in 2025. Bruce’s Law authorizes a national public education campaign through the Department of Health and Human Services, establishes a federal interagency working group to improve overdose response, supports prevention education in schools, expands Naloxone access, and provides grant funding to community coalitions nationwide. Through measurable outcomes including over 20,000 students reached, statewide coalition development, federal policy advancement, and increased awareness of Narcan accessibility, Alaska Fentanyl Response has established itself as a model for fentanyl prevention in America. For its visionary leadership, youth engagement, collaborative partnerships, and measurable impact, they are deserving of the Fentanyl Free America Prevention Award.
Laura Lynch, of Bellevue, Washington won the individual award for Excellence in Prevention.
Laura Lynch has emerged as one of Washington state’s most courageous and influential voices in fentanyl prevention, turning unimaginable personal tragedy into a mission that is saving lives, educating communities, and shaping public policy. Following the devastating loss of her 18-year-old daughter, Brillion Lynch, to fentanyl poisoning, Laura made the extraordinary decision to transform her grief into action. Laura has demonstrated exceptional leadership in fentanyl prevention by helping develop and deliver evidence-based education initiatives focused on the dangers of counterfeit pills and illicit fentanyl. Working closely with the Drug Enforcement Administration Seattle Field Division, Laura has become a trusted partner in one of the region’s most impactful public awareness campaigns. Alongside DEA Seattle leadership, including Special Agent in Charge Robert Saccone and Community Outreach Specialist Marcus Pickett, Laura has helped deliver more than 25 “One Pill Can Kill” presentations across over 20 public and private schools throughout Western Washington, directly educating more than 30,000 students. By sharing Brillion’s story, she helps students and parents understand that fentanyl poisoning is not an abstract crisis, it is a deadly reality impacting families in every community. She has presented to youth organizations, including local leadership groups such as Young Men’s Service League, participated in DEA Seattle’s Family Summits on Fentanyl, and spoken to community coalitions, parents, educators, and civic leaders throughout Washington state. Laura has also built meaningful partnerships across education, public health, law enforcement, media, and government. She has worked tirelessly with U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) to advocate for stronger federal legislation designed to protect families from fentanyl and other illicit substances. Her willingness to engage policymakers at the highest levels has helped elevate fentanyl prevention as a legislative priority. Her advocacy has also reached thousands through media awareness efforts. Laura has appeared in more than five local television news features, in addition to coverage from major regional media outlets, helping to amplify prevention messaging to families throughout the Pacific Northwest. Through measurable outcomes including more than 30,000 students reached, more than 25 prevention presentations delivered, statewide coalition building, national advocacy, and legislative engagement, Laura Lynch has demonstrated extraordinary impact. Her courage, leadership, and unwavering dedication have made her one of America’s most effective voices in fentanyl prevention, deserving of the Fentanyl Free America Prevention Award.
While overdose deaths continue to trend downward nationally, leaders throughout the summit emphasized that progress is not victory. Sustaining that momentum will require continued enforcement against terrorist drug cartels, investment in community-based prevention, support for recovery, and strong partnerships across every sector.
DEA urges the public to remain cognizant of the extreme threat of fentanyl in our communities:
- Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is approximately 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine.
- Just two milligrams, the equivalent of a few grains of salt, is a potentially lethal dose.
- The Sinaloa Cartel and CJNG, both designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations in 2025, are pressing fentanyl into counterfeit pills that look like prescription medications – such as oxycodone, Xanax, and Percocet – as well as mixing fentanyl powder with cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine.
- Many of the people poisoned by fentanyl had no idea they were even taking it.
- The only safe medications are ones that come from licensed and accredited medical professionals.
The DEA Museum and Faces of Fentanyl memorial exhibit are located at 700 Army Navy Drive, Arlington, Va., 22202. There is metered street parking around the building and a parking garage at the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City across the street.
Oregon Guard senior leaders visit airmen fighting Grasshopper Fire
(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
TYGH VALLEY, Ore. — Oregon National Guard senior leaders flew from Salem to the Grasshopper Fire camp aboard an HH-60M Black Hawk helicopter with Golf Company, 1st Battalion, 189th Aviation, Aug. 17, 2026, to visit Air National Guard members supporting wildland firefighting operations, thanking the airmen for volunteering to fight one of the state’s largest active wildfires.
Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Oregon’s adjutant general, led the visit alongside Brig. Gen. Jenifer E. Pardy, director of the Joint Staff; Chief Warrant Officer 5 Lenora Landwehr, command chief warrant officer; Chaplain (Col.) Jacob Scott, the state chaplain; and Chief Master Sgt. Brent Cavanias, command senior enlisted leader. Jonna Papaefthimiou, resilience officer for Gov. Tina Kotek’s office, also joined the visit to meet with the airmen on the governor’s behalf.
“This is a big deal for Oregonians, big deal for the Guard, to go out and see National Guardsmen out fighting fire, doing what we’re trained to do,” Gronewold told the group. “What we’re here to do is protect Oregonians and their property, and you guys are doing that.”
The Grasshopper Fire had burned more than 90,000 acres and was 47% contained as of Aug. 17. The fire camp supporting the response has grown to approximately 1,800 personnel, with about 1,550 directly engaged in firefighting operations.
Among the airmen Gronewold and the other leaders met with were Senior Airman Colby Shoals and Senior Airman Connor Carlson, both assigned to the 270th Air Traffic Control Squadron, nicknamed “Chaos,” out of the 173rd Fighter Wing. Shoals said the physically demanding work of wildland firefighting fits naturally with the team’s usual training.
“It’s right up our alley,” Shoals said. “What we do day to day at the base, we’re already working together out in the field, so it’s pretty much another day on the job for us.”
Carlson said the team has taken on some of the more physically demanding tasks on the fire line, including carrying water on their backs to perform wet mop-up work.
“We’ve been able to pick up a lot of those heavier tasks, like carrying a bladder pack on us, so we can do that wet mop-up where it’s easier rather than doing dry mop-up,” Carlson said.
Shoals said the mission mirrors the teamwork and mutual accountability the airmen already rely on in their day-to-day work.
“Everybody’s like a big family there, so everybody has each other’s backs,” Shoals said. “If somebody looks like they’re not doing so well or getting a little tired, everybody’s checking on each other.”
SVU Detectives Arrest Medford Man on Rape, Sex Abuse of Teen Girl; Detectives Believe Suspect Has More Victims
MEDFORD, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) Special Victims Unit (SVU) detectives arrested a Medford man this morning at a business in the 500 block of the Medford Center.
The suspect, Evan James Sutherlin, 20, of Medford, is lodged in the Jackson County Jail. He is charged with first-degree rape, third-degree sexual abuse, and first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse.
The case started June 2nd, 2026, when JCSO deputies responded to a report of a then 19-year-old man sexually abusing a 15-year-old girl in the Jacksonville area. From there, SVU detectives took over the investigation leading to his arrest.
As SVU detectives continue their investigation, they believe Sutherlin may have more victims. Anyone with information about the pictured suspect is asked to call SVU Detective Jill Wenzel at 541-770-8928.
OREGON FREEDOM AMENDMENT
SALEM, OR — August 19, 2026 — Today, chief petitioner of Initiative Petition 25 (IP 25), officially known as the Oregon Freedom Amendment, announced a major procedural milestone in their effort to qualify for the statewide ballot. The Oregon Secretary of State Elections Division has formally referred IP 25 to the Oregon Attorney General to begin drafting the measure’s official ballot title and summary.
The referral to the Attorney General indicates that IP 25 has successfully met the initial sponsorship signatures threshold required by Oregon election law. The Oregon Secretary of State’s official initiative records identify Petition 2028-025 as:
“Amendment to protect rights to hunt, fish, farm, trap, ranch, grow food, and wildlife management”
“This is about protecting the people’s ability to continue the practices that have helped sustain Oregon communities for generations,” said Kari Goodheart, Chief Petitioner of the Oregon Freedom Amendment. “Hunting, fishing, farming, ranching, trapping, growing food, caring for animals and managing wildlife are deeply connected to Oregon’s land, culture, food supply and way of life. The people should have a constitutional safeguard for these activities.”
What is the Oregon Freedom Amendment (IP 25)?
The Oregon Freedom Amendment is a proposed state constitutional amendment for the November 7, 2028 general election, explicitly designed to establish constitutionally protected rights for individuals across Oregon.
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Constitutional Rights Protection: The amendment seeks to protect the rights of Oregonians to hunt, fish, farm, trap, ranch, grow food, practice diligent animal husbandry, and participate in wildlife management.
The Oregon Freedom Amendment is intended to place these activities and traditions within the protections of the Oregon Constitution, recognizing the importance of hunting, fishing, agriculture, ranching, trapping, food production, responsible animal husbandry, and wildlife management to Oregon’s communities, families, economy, and natural-resource heritage.
The U.S. Forest Service is allocating over $15 million to support 20 wood innovation projects throughout Oregon, aimed at enhancing active forest management, increasing manufacturing capabilities, and bolstering rural economies.
This federal investment of $15,091,037 is designed to sustain Oregon’s prominent position in the wood products sector while promoting forest health and mitigating wildfire risks. These efforts are part of a larger national initiative, with a total funding of $105.5 million through the USFS Wood Innovations Program.
The funding is categorized into three grant types, with $10 million allocated for Wood Products Infrastructure Assistance grants, which includes $2 million each for Prairie Wood Products in Prairie City to revitalize and modernize a sawmill, Malheur Forest Products in John Day to reopen a dormant sawmill, and Wren Hill Lumber in Philomath to enhance operational capacity and efficiency.
Fire Restrictions: BLM Urges Fire Prevention During National Shooting Sports Month
Fire restrictions remain in effect on all Bureau of Land Management public lands in Oregon and Washington as the region continues through a record setting wildfire season. More than 2.5 million acres have already burned across the Northwest. BLM officials are calling on all public land visitors to exercise extreme caution, follow fire restrictions and closures, and help prevent additional wildfires.
“As National Shooting Sports Month draws to a close and we make our way into hunting season, we especially want to thank hunters for being responsible stewards of public lands,” said Kyle Hensley, Prineville District Manager for the BLM. “Hunting season and wildfire season overlap in the Pacific Northwest, and we can all work together to keep each other, and our shared public lands, safe.”
Specific fire restrictions vary by location based on fire danger, weather conditions, and fuel moisture. These restrictions address what types of ammunition can be used, whether campfires are allowed, and what fire prevention equipment is required. Before visiting public lands, all recreators should check local restrictions and closures.
Over 99% of BLM lands nationwide are open to recreation. Land managers put restrictions and closures in place only when and where necessary to protect public safety.
“Please follow local restrictions to the letter,” said Jeff Fedrizzi, Assistant Chief of Operations for the U.S. Wildland Fire Service Pacific Northwest Geographic Area. “Preventing even one human-caused wildfire makes a difference for our firefighters and our communities.”
Individuals responsible for starting wildfires my face fines of up to $100,000, imprisonment for up to 12 months, and liability for the full cost of wildfire suppression.
For more information on seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, please see www.blm.gov/orwafire.
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The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
Governor Proclaims August as National Emergency Management Awareness Month in Oregon
Governor Tina Kotek has officially proclaimed August 2026 as National Emergency Management Awareness Month in Oregon, recognizing the vital work of emergency managers and the role they play in helping communities prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters.
The proclamation supports a national campaign spearheaded by the International Association of Emergency Managers to increase public awareness and appreciation for the emergency management profession. In Oregon, the campaign is being led by the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), in partnership with local, Tribal, regional, and state emergency management agencies.
“In Oregon, emergency management brings together state, local, tribal, and private partners to safeguard our communities long before disaster strikes. ,” OEM Director Erin McMahon, said. “We’re proud to spotlight the field of emergency management and the dedicated professionals who work every day to prepare for our worst day, protect lives, strengthen community resilience, and coordinate help when it’s needed most.”
OEM’s Role in Supporting Emergency Management Statewide
OEM plays a key leadership role in supporting and strengthening emergency management across the state. Through its Regional Emergency Management Coordinators Program, OEM employs specialized field staff to support all 36 counties and Oregon’s nine federally recognized Tribes. These coordinators provide on-the-ground guidance and technical assistance across all phases of emergency management—from preparedness to long-term recovery.
Additionally, OEM’s Tribal Liaison works closely with Tribal Nations to coordinate emergency management initiatives and ensure Tribal needs are represented in state planning and response efforts. The OEM Public Private Partnership Program Manager coordinates and collaborates with business and industry stakeholders across emergency preparedness, response and recovery operations, serving as a liaison between the private sector and local and state agencies. This collaboration is further reinforced by the Private Sector Security and Resilience Seminar Series, a recurring program of educational sessions designed to inform and engage private sector participants and better equip them to navigate crises effectively and recover swiftly.
OEM also manages the State Emergency Coordination Center (ECC), which is activated during large-scale or multi-jurisdictional emergencies. The ECC serves as a central hub for coordination and communication among state agencies and emergency support partners, ensuring that local needs are met efficiently and effectively.
With responsibility for coordinating Oregon’s 18 Emergency Support Functions and supporting more than 50 local and Tribal emergency management offices, OEM works in partnership with emergency management leaders and professionals across state agencies who provide critical expertise, resources and support within their respective organizations. Together, these partners contribute to a resilient, collaborative and well-coordinated emergency management system across Oregon.
Authorities in Northern California have announced the resolution of a long-standing missing persons case, identifying human remains found in Shasta County as those of a man who vanished nearly 38 years ago.
James Homer Wright Jr., who was 20 at the time of his disappearance from Redding in 1988, was linked to remains discovered two years later on a small island in the Sacramento River, which had remained unidentified and classified as a John Doe case for decades.
The investigation was reignited in 2025 when Wright’s mother, Florence Moran, recognized a pair of Nike high-top shoes associated with the remains. This prompted collaboration between the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office and the Redding Police Department to pursue new leads and collect DNA samples from Wright’s family.
In March 2026, DNA testing confirmed the identity of the remains as belonging to Wright, and his family was informed of the identification in July, after which his remains were returned to them.
The Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation (OLSHF) is proud to partner with the Tribal Charitable entities of Oregon to support Oregon’s K-12 students.
During the coming 2026-2027 school year the Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation will receive generous grant funding from the Wildhorse Foundation, (Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla); the Three Rivers Foundation (Coos, Umpqua and Siuslaw); the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund; the Coquille Tribal Community Fund and the Cow Creek Umpqua Indian Foundation in support of the School Vision Screening Program (SVS).
All of the mentioned Tribal Foundations understand how important vision is to learning in K-12 students. Studies consistently show that 80% of learning in K-12 students is visual and that 25% of those students have correctable vision issues, yet only about 10% have the glasses they need. OLSHF’s School Vision Screening Program, with the help of tribal support, provides highest quality objective, efficient, equitable and safe vision screening to students throughout Oregon. The screenings are followed by resources for student families for low-cost/no-cost vision exams and eyeglasses. With the help of Oregon’s Tribes, OLSHF provided this service to over 200,000 students last school year, (2025-2026) and screened the 2-millionth student in 2024!
Funding from all five of the Oregon Tribal Foundations helps cover the costs of OLSHF School Vision Screening in almost 60% of Oregon Counties, including urban centers as well as rural and remote communities. When students can see to their potential, they have a greater ability to learn to their potential and have a better chance to contribute to their families, themselves and communities.
The Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation shares a long history of partnership with Oregon’s tribes, going back many years. OLSHF and the Lions of Oregon look forward to continuing to help students achieve their potential with their partners at the Cow Creek Umpqua Indian Foundation, the Coquille Tribal Community Fund, the Three Rivers Foundation, the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund and the Wildhorse Foundation, into Oregon’s future.
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