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 Countertops by Topsecret. Call them at 541-850-8677.
Friday, September 18, 2026
Klamath Basin Weather
Today
Sunny, with a high near 74. Overnight, clear with a low near 43 degrees.
Today’s News Headlines
Klamath County School District Superintendent Melissa Cole’s community listening tour is progressing well, with initial discussions highlighting essential priorities such as academic rigor, access to rural programs, support for educators, and enhanced community engagement.
Since assuming her role on July 1, Cole has been actively engaging with various school communities as part of her 100-Day “Listen, Learn, Lead Together” Plan, having already conducted sessions at multiple schools including Henley Middle School, Gilchrist, and several elementary schools, with four sessions still to come.
This initiative is integral to Cole’s leadership approach, which emphasizes the importance of being present in local communities to gather frontline feedback that will inform district policies. Cole has articulated the collaborative nature of education, stating that it requires the involvement of educators, families, and community partners. Throughout the tour, there has been a strong consensus among school communities advocating for heightened academic rigor at all grade levels.
In response, Cole is empowering school leaders and educators to define clear district priority standards and align them throughout the academic year, aiming to establish a foundational understanding of what academic rigor entails.
Downtown Klamath Falls is preparing for the second annual Tastin’ in the Basin, a community block party and wine pairing event scheduled for today, September 18, from 2PM-8PM, downtown.
Organized by The Tasting Room, the event will be on 4th Street, between Klamath Avenue and Main Street, from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The street closed to vehicular traffic during the celebration. The organizers aim to enhance the success of last year’s inaugural event, offering attendees a carefully selected array of Oregon wines paired with small bites from local food vendors.
Participating wineries and pourers will include Long Walk Vineyard, Circadian Cellars, Foris Vineyards, Handcrafted Wines, and Mitchell Wine Group, while food vendors such as Squeals on Wheels, Basin Levain Bakery, Pond Hockey Pickles, Give Me Some Sugar, B.P. Bees Honey, Millen Family Farm, and Klamath Grown will provide a diverse culinary experience.
Live music will be performed by the Aaron Miller Band, and pairing tickets can be purchased for $35 online or $40 at the door. Additionally, taster ticket bundles are available, with five tickets for $15 or ten for $25, and food will be offered for sale both inside The Tasting Room and from various outdoor vendors.
A Texan country singer, Coffey Anderson will perform tonight at the Ragland Theater.
Coffey performed last night with a private concert on September 17th for military personnel and their families, followed by a public performance on the 18th.
Anderson emphasizes the importance of connecting with service members, sharing his personal motivation rooted in his father’s experience as an Air Force veteran. He expresses his excitement about performing for those who serve the country, highlighting the significance of providing them a moment of respite through his music.
Call the Ragland box office at 541-884-5483. or click here: https://www.ragland.org/
A black pickup truck was discovered submerged in the Klamath River on Wednesday, approximately one mile downstream from where it had plunged over an embankment near the Collier Rest Area.
CAL FIRE reported that a 911 call was made around 8:30 a.m. on September 16, alerting authorities to the vehicle in the river. Upon arrival, crews confirmed that the truck had indeed fallen from Highway 96 into the water, but no occupants were found inside.
The Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office deployed a drone to search the riverbanks, successfully locating the individual about a mile downstream from the truck’s entry point.
The Siskiyou County Rescue Team dispatched two boats, and rescuers on the riverbank managed to retrieve the person from the water.
Emergency personnel provided treatment at the scene, while the investigation into the incident is ongoing.
REACH Incorporated has been recognized as one of the select nonprofits nationwide to receive funding from Kubota Tractor Corp.’s Hometown Proud Grant Program, securing a grant of $50,000.
Established in 1968 by Zelda Langdale as the Klamath Work Activity Center, REACH has evolved into a vital organization that supports over 120 adults annually through various employment opportunities, skill-building initiatives, and community enterprises.
Achieving 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in 1987, REACH has consistently expanded its offerings while prioritizing the development of independence among participants through meaningful connections and workforce training.
Operating from the historic Maywood Mill site at 2350 Maywood Drive, REACH integrates disability services with practical employment training, collaborating with more than 90 local businesses, including Sky Lakes, Klamath Community College, Klamath County Fairgrounds, Bogatay Construction, and Pelican Tractor Company, to provide services in landscaping, recycling, and day programs.
Additionally, REACH extends its support to older adults and others in the Klamath Basin who need increased daily assistance. Its Day Services Area caters to approximately 40 adults, offering personalized support that encompasses meals, personal care, socialization, life skills development, and community outings aimed at fostering independence and meaningful participation.
The Klamath Basin Oktoberfest is set to return Saturday the 19th at Bill Collier Community Ice Arena, organized by the Klamath County Economic Development Association (KCEDA).
This family-oriented celebration honors German traditions and showcases the finest local brews, diverse food vendors, live music, and engaging activities, including the popular “Stein holding carry competition.”
Admission tickets are priced at $30 for standard entry at the door, $25 for online purchases, and $10 for non-drinkers. For further details regarding the schedule, activities, and entertainment, please visit klamathoktoberfest.org.
Play our You-Pick-Em Pro Football Contest from BasinLife.com!
Click the pic to enter and play!
The Klamath County Museum is reintroducing two popular events this autumn: Night at the Cemetery and flashlight tours of the Baldwin Hotel Museum.
On October 2nd and 3rd, Spirited Guides will lead visitors through the historic Linkville Pioneer Cemetery, offering insights into the lives of those interred there, as well as tales of their potential afterlives.
Tickets can be purchased at klamathcounty.org. Additionally, for those seeking more thrills, the Baldwin Hotel Museum will host flashlight tours every Friday and Saturday from October 9th to 30th. Participants will explore the four stories of this historic, possibly haunted hotel on Main Street after dark, uncovering intriguing stories and mysteries from the past.
Reservations can be made by contacting the museum directly.
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 historic 2.5 million acres have burned in the state of Oregon this year, prompting the state to seek solutions for funding the aftermath.
Lawmakers are convening in Salem to address urgent financial requests from both the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Oregon Department of Forestry. By using the expenses from the previous record-setting fire season in 2024 as a reference and adjusting for inflation, the Oregon Department of Forestry anticipates that the total cost for the 2026 fire season could reach approximately $350 million.
State officials are also cautioning residents that, despite the arrival of cooler weather, the fire season is far from over.
The Oregon Secretary of State has published an audit concerning the Oregon Health Authority, highlighting the pressing issue of duplicate IDs that have resulted in significant overpayments to coordinated care organizations.
The audit, which spans from 2020 to 2024, uncovered 645 instances of duplicate IDs, leading to an estimated $4.1 million in overpayments.
Secretary of State Tobias Read emphasized the urgency of addressing this problem, warning that failure to do so could jeopardize a vital program. He noted that while OHA has already recognized many duplicates and has taken steps to recoup or adjust some payments, the existence of overpayments poses a risk to federal funding, which constitutes two-thirds of Oregon’s Medicaid budget. A reduction or withdrawal of this funding would severely impact the state’s ability to provide care for its most vulnerable citizens.
Furthermore, enhancing worker training is essential to improve the system’s capability to identify potential duplicates effectively.
A recent poll commissioned by a state business organization indicates that Republican state Senator Christine Drazan is nearly even with Democratic Governor Tina Kotek in the race for Oregon’s governorship, as reported in a memo obtained by the media’s Oregonian/OregonLive.
The survey, which included 600 likely voters and was conducted by DHM Research, reveals that Drazan holds a slight advantage over Kotek, although this lead falls within the poll’s margin of error of plus or minus 4 percentage points.
These findings align closely with a June poll that was commissioned by Drazan’s campaign. Should the election take place today, 43% of respondents indicated they would vote for Drazan, while 41% expressed support for Kotek; additionally, 16% remained undecided, and 3% indicated they would back Green Party candidate Brett Smith.
An increase in bear sightings in Ashland during late August has prompted wildlife officials to warn that bears will likely venture into human-populated areas for additional reasons.
The scarcity of berries in the mountains, attributed to a low snowpack last winter and insufficient rainfall, has driven bears into local neighborhoods.
As September progresses into early December, bears will enter a phase known as Hyperphagia, characterized by extreme hunger as they prepare for winter hibernation.
During this period, bears consume approximately 20,000 calories daily, gaining two to four pounds each day, and their food intake increases tenfold compared to spring and summer.
This behavior leads them to seek out human food sources, which are easily accessible and calorie-dense, requiring minimal energy to obtain. Weslee Nehl, Animal Ambassador Supervisor with Wildlife Images, emphasizes the need for residents to eliminate potential food sources.
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife recommends securing food, garbage, and recycling, removing bird feeders, cleaning and storing grills, and ensuring that pet food is not left outdoors. Additionally, residents with backyard chickens should store chicken feed securely away from the coop.
A recall election has been scheduled for Amanda O’Bryan, the director of Lake County School Board #7 position 2.
The Lake County Clerk’s Office reports that a letter signed by 60 staff members has called for O’Bryan’s resignation, citing a history of misconduct. Voters in the district will receive recall ballots by mail on Tuesday, September 22, with a deadline for submission set for 8 p.m. on Tuesday, October 13, or postmarked by that date and accepted up to seven days later.
The recall petition alleges that O’Bryan’s actions have fostered a “pattern of misconduct” that has undermined trust and negatively impacted the school community. It notes that there have been 11 complaints filed either by or against her, contributing to a toxic work environment and incurring significant legal costs.
Additionally, the petition accuses O’Bryan of using social media to intimidate district staff and criticizes her for not enrolling her own children in the schools she oversees.
Former U.S. Army Soldier From Oregon Pleads Guilty to Gathering and Transmitting National Defense Information To China
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Hillsboro, Oregon, man pleaded guilty this week to conspiracy to gather and transmit national defense information.
Ruoyu Duan, Age 41, pleaded guilty to a superseding information charging conspiracy to gather and transmit national defense information, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.
According to court documents, between November 2021 and March 2025, within the District of Oregon and elsewhere, Duan conspired with others to surreptitiously gather sensitive military information related to the United States Army’s operational capabilities, including computer equipment, training materials, intelligence reports, and technical manuals. Duan paid his co-conspirators, active-duty U.S. Army soldiers, and others, to gather information and equipment. Specifically, they obtained information related to U.S. military weapon systems, such as U.S. Army combat vehicles, including the Bradley, Stryker, and HIMARS platforms, and transferred that information to people in China.
Duan served as an U.S. Army soldier from 2013 – 2017 and was trained in the handling of sensitive and classified military information.
On March 5, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Duan and Li Tian, an Active-Duty U.S. Army Officer, with conspiring to commit bribery and theft of government property.
The FBI arrested Duan in Oregon on March 6, 2025.
Defendant Duan faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and 3 years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on December 10, 2026, before U.S. District Court Judge Karin Immergut.
Body located in the Rogue River at Baker Park in Jackson County
Teen Killed, Another Critically Injured in Myrtle Creek Stabbing
MYRTLE CREEK, Ore. — A 17-year-old boy was killed and another 17-year-old was critically injured in a stabbing Sunday night in Myrtle Creek, authorities said.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office said deputies and Myrtle Creek police responded to a residence in the 100 block of NE Laurel Avenue shortly before 10:45 p.m. Sept. 13 after receiving a report that two teens had been stabbed.
The suspect, a 16-year-old, fled the scene but was later located and interviewed by detectives. No arrests have been made, and authorities have not released the names of those involved.
The deceased teen was pronounced dead at the scene. The second victim was taken to a hospital and later transferred to an out-of-area hospital for additional treatment.
At the request of Myrtle Creek police, the Douglas County Major Crimes Team is leading the investigation. Authorities said there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Thirteen members of the Oregon National Guard were hospitalized following a collision on Highway 30 in Clatsop County on Saturday night, which resulted in the death of another vehicle’s driver, as confirmed by the Oregon Military Department on Tuesday morning.
Among the injured Guard members, three remain in the hospital. The incident, which occurred shortly before 9 p.m. on Monday near milepost 85, prompted a “mass casualty” response from local fire and police departments, as well as hospitals.
Preliminary reports indicate that 65-year-old Markham Stangland of Warrenton was driving west when his black Ford Ranger unexpectedly veered into oncoming traffic, colliding with a Ram 1500 pickup before crashing into a Ford transit van.
An eastbound Ford F-150 was unable to stop in time and struck the wrecked vehicles.
The transit van was transporting the Guard members back from a training event at Camp Rilea, and all 13 individuals, including the driver, were taken to the hospital.
The driver of the van, identified as 21-year-old Haiden Cunningham from Milwaukie, sustained serious injuries. The drivers of the other two pickups were treated for minor injuries.
In total, 17 individuals were involved in the accident, which led to the highway being closed for approximately four hours for an investigation.
Oregon’s unemployment rate remained relatively stable at 5.1% in August, slightly down from 5.2% in July, maintaining a narrow range of 5.0% to 5.3% for the past 18 months.
In August, the state’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment experienced a decline of 800 jobs, following a revised loss of 1,800 jobs in July, with the most significant losses occurring in professional and business services, while construction and retail trade saw the largest gains.
Over the past year, payroll employment decreased by 10,900 jobs, or 0.5%, although the health care and social assistance sector continued its robust growth, adding 10,200 jobs, or 3.2%. Private education and other services were the only other major sectors to report job increases since August 2025, while manufacturing experienced the most significant job cuts, with most other industries reducing employment by less than 2%.
Despite these challenges, there have been indications of stabilization in the labor market over the last five months, with total nonfarm payroll employment increasing by 1,800 jobs, or 0.1%.
The most substantial gains during this period were observed in health care and social assistance, construction, other services, retail trade, and private education, although these were somewhat counterbalanced by job losses in manufacturing, leisure and hospitality, and government sectors.
Mazama Energy Raises $135 Million to Scale the World’s Hottest Engineered Geothermal System
DALLAS, OREGON — Mazama Energy today announced $135 million in new capital to accelerate superhot rock geothermal commercial development, including an oversubscribed Series B led by Centaurus Capital, founded by John Arnold, and Doerr Capital. ConocoPhillips and Shell Ventures joined the round, with repeat investment from Khosla Ventures and Gates Frontier. Additional investors include SiteGround Capital, H. Barton Asset Management, and Jeffrey and Marieke Rothschild Foundation.
Mazama holds the record for the hottest engineered geothermal system ever built. In 2025 at Newberry, Oregon, Mazama created an engineered geothermal system at 629°F (331°C), proving reservoir creation, connectivity and heat recovery.
Mazama is now pushing toward even hotter targets. Its second well, Project Athena, reached that same 10,350-foot depth in 15 days this month, about 80% faster than the 2025 well, and is drilling a mile further down toward 750°F (400°C).
Reaching 750°F (400°C) delivers up to 10 times the power of a conventional 390°F (200°C) well, owing to the much higher energy density of supercritical water and improved reservoir productivity. This allows Mazama to deliver projects using 75% less water and drilling 80% fewer wells than conventional geothermal developments. Mazama’s technology has the potential to significantly improve the viability and permitting prospects of geothermal projects across a wide range of regions, reducing both surface infrastructure requirements and overall project footprint.
Unlocking superhot rock geothermal requires solving three interconnected challenges: reaching extreme temperatures without compromising the equipment, creating a productive reservoir where none exists naturally, and efficiently extracting heat to generate and sustain power. Mazama has spent the last several years developing these capabilities into a single integrated system paving the way towards delivering carbon-free, baseload power competitive with fossil fuels.
“The breakthrough in superhot geothermal is turning extreme heat into a repeatable, economic power system,” said Sriram Vasantharajan, CEO of Mazama Energy. “At Newberry, we have demonstrated the critical pieces together: extreme-temperature drilling, engineered reservoir creation and heat harvesting, at temperatures no other EGS has achieved. We are now driving that integrated system toward greater speed, efficiency and scale. That is the foundation for commercial superhot power.”
What this capital funds next
Utilities and grid planners are trying to add power they can count on around the clock faster than new transmission and new generation can be permitted and built. Mazama’s bet is to go down, not out: pull more energy from underground instead of adding more infrastructure above ground.
This financing funds Project Ceres, supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, which will advance horizontal well development in superhot rock toward a 15 MWe of capacity per well and demonstrate power generation in 2027. Athena and Ceres are the near-term proof points for a much larger ambition: Mazama is targeting independent certification of more than 10 GWe of resource potential at Newberry alone, while evaluating additional sites in the United States and internationally as it builds toward multi gigawatt-scale developments. Mazama’s goal is to make superhot rock geothermal a scalable source of firm power to address rising electricity demand, affordability and energy security around the world.
About Mazama Energy
Mazama Energy is a geothermal developer that has differentiated technology to deliver and scale superhot rock geothermal. In 2025 Mazama achieved the highest temperature in an engineered geothermal system, 629 °F (331°C), at Newberry, Oregon, unlocking the potential to generate significantly more energy from fewer wells, use less land, water and capital, and thereby, lower the cost of power.
District of Oregon’s COVID Fraud Task Force Secures More Than $314 million in Restitution, Forfeitures, and Civil Recoveries
U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford is pleased to announce a series of criminal and civil enforcement actions to combat fraud involving federal pandemic relief funds. Since June 2026, the District of Oregon’s Covid Fraud Task Force has brought 12 enforcement actions involving more than $29 million in losses and thus far resulting in more than $8.6 million in recovery. Since 2020, the District’s COVID Fraud Task Force recovered more than $314 million and held fraudsters accountable through similar efforts.
The District’s COVID Fraud Task Force brings together investigators and Assistant U.S. Attorneys from a dozen agencies to combat fraud involving pandemic-relief programs in Oregon and across the country through an integrated, multi-agency approach that coordinates criminal prosecution, civil enforcement, and asset recovery. Its work has focused on schemes targeting the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF), and other federal relief programs. This task force has set a national standard for combating pandemic-relief fraud.
“These criminals exploited pandemic programs meant to keep honest small businesses alive. By aggressively pursuing pandemic‑related fraud, we’re protecting the local businesses that follow the law, serve our communities, and drive our economy. Our small, dedicated multi‑agency team delivers an exceptional return for the American taxpayer—holding offenders accountable and recovering hundreds of millions in settlements, seizures, and restitution. And when possible, we work cooperatively with companies to return improperly obtained taxpayer funds. Fraud, waste, and abuse don’t stand a chance,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
“Intentional misrepresentation to gain access to SBA program funds intended for the nation’s small businesses is reprehensible,” said SBA Office of Inspector General’s Western Region Special Agent in Charge Timothy Larson. “Our Office will remain relentless in the pursuit of fraudsters who seek to exploit SBA’s vital economic programs. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and commitment to seeing justice served.”
The following cases highlight the COVID Fraud Task Force’s work over the past few months:
U.S. v Benjamin Young, David Starling, and Adam Starling
On June 9, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Benjamin Young and David Starling with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and Young with 12 counts of wire fraud. Adam Starling previously pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States.
The indictment alleges, and Adam Starling admitted in his plea agreement, that participants in the conspiracy fabricated employee and wage records to obtain Employee Retention Credits and Qualified Sick and Family Leave Credits. Co-conspirators listed relatives as employees of one another’s businesses even though those relatives performed little to no work. The purported employees included one co-conspirator’s two-year-old twins. The wages were reported and filed with the IRS, seeking over $3 million in COVID-19 related tax credits. The scheme also used fabricated IRS records to support PPP loan applications to the SBA that were later forgiven based on false information.
The indictment further alleges that Young fraudulently obtained approximately $1.6 million in PPP loan forgiveness in the name of a victim nonprofit organization and used fabricated records to obtain a $2.5 million SBA-guaranteed business loan. Young allegedly misappropriated the loan proceeds and used them to acquire real property. In November 2025, the United States seized properties owned by Young, including this one, that allegedly were purchased with proceeds of the schemes.
U.S. v Melissa Fireside
On September 1, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Melissa Fireside, a former Clackamas County Commissioner, with two counts of wire fraud. According to the indictment, Fireside sought PPP and EIDL loans, totaling more than $300,000, for a business that did not exist in the name of an adult for whom she provided care. The applications included false statements about the non-existent business, including employees and gross revenues. Fireside also included fabricated supporting documentation including tax documents and bank records. Fireside diverted the PPP loan proceeds for personal use. Fireside has since fled the United States and is a fugitive from justice. Anyone with information is urged to contact the District of Oregon United State Marshals Service Office, the United State Marshals Service Communications Center at 1-800-336-0102, or submit a tip using USMS Tips.
U.S. v K’Lum Strickland
On September 1, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging K’Lum Strickland with one count of wire fraud. According to the indictment, Strickland stole almost $70,000 through the PPP and EIDL programs. To obtain the loans, Strickland submitted applications with false information, including non-existent businesses, false gross revenues, and false IRS documents. Strickland spent all of the loan proceeds for personal expenses.
U.S. v Beniamin Lucescu
On September 11, 2026, a federal jury convicted Beniamin Lucescu of conspiracy, wire fraud, and money laundering for a scheme through which he defrauded the government out of approximately $487,000 in EIDL proceeds. As proven at trial, Lucescu claimed he was obtaining the loans for Rose City Senior Care, a home senior care business he operated with his wife. Lucescu falsely certified the proceeds would be used for business working capital and to address economic injury caused by the pandemic while he actually intended to, and did, use the funds to pay personal tax debt and make speculative cryptocurrency investments.
U.S. v Kenneth Burns
Kenneth Burns pleaded guilty to bank fraud for defrauding the government out of more than $230,000 in PPP loan proceeds. According to court documents, Burns submitted a loan application containing false information, including IRS documents and information about the business.
On July 7, 2026, Burns failed to appear for his scheduled sentencing hearing, and a bench warrant was issued for his arrest as a wanted fugitive from justice. Anyone with information is urged to contact the District of Oregon United State Marshals Service Office, the United State Marshals Service Communications Center at 1-800-336-0102, or submit a tip using USMS Tips.
U.S. v Joel Caswell
On August 21, 2026, Joel Caswell was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison for fraud, tax violations, and identity theft. He was also ordered to pay $1,198,799.83 in restitution to the government. According to court records, Caswell executed multiple fraud schemes that involved
submitting fabricated financial records to a bank, a private lender, and the SBA to secure loans. Caswell used the fraudulently obtained loans for personal expenses.
On September 1, 2026, another individual was charged for defrauding the SBA’s PPP and EIDL loan programs for over $760,000. This case remains under seal.
Emerald Green Lawn Service, Inc.
On July 6, 2026, Emerald Green Lawn Service, Inc., executed a False Claims Act Civil Settlement Agreement to repay $71,485.19 of EIDL loan proceeds for knowingly submitting false applications to obtain EIDL loans.
Ramzy Hattar; and Zedan Outdoors, LLC d/b/a Talyor’s Bar & Grill
On September 11, 2026, the United States filed a complaint against Ramzy Hattar and his associated business Zedan Outdoors, LLC, dba Taylor’s Bar & Grill for filing false claims in applications to obtain more than $350,000 in PPP and EIDL loans. According to the complaint, Taylor’s Bar & Grill was not operating at the time it obtained the loans. The complaint further alleges that Hattar misused the loan proceeds.
Microtec Inc., formerly known as Lucidyne Technologies, Inc.
On August 27, 2026, Microtec Inc., which was formerly known as Lucidyne Technologies, Inc. agreed to pay the United States $1,554,137 to resolve an investigation into whether Lucidyne Technologies improperly certified its eligibility for a PPP loan. Microtec Inc. cooperated upon being contacted and resolved the issue.
Additional Civil Case Pending Execution:
On September 4, 2026, the United States reached a False Claims Act Civil Settlement Agreement in a sealed qui tam action with a company that improperly obtained PPP loans, recovering approximately $1.6 million.
The COVID Fraud Task Force continues to pursue criminal and civil enforcement actions aggressively with forthcoming matters on the horizon.
The Oregon Department of Forestry has obtained federal approval to oversee state forests through a new conservation strategy that safeguards ten fish species while allowing for continued timber harvesting.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries has granted an incidental take permit for the department’s Western State Forests Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP), providing regulatory assurance under the Endangered Species Act for the species included in the plan.
Kacey KC, Oregon State Forester, emphasized that achieving this significant milestone is the result of extensive efforts over the past eight years, as the permit enables more stable and consistent management of state forestlands with the assurance of compliance with the Endangered Species Act regarding the protected fish species. State legislation mandates that state forests be managed to deliver social, economic, and environmental benefits, and this conservation plan aims to balance management impacts while enhancing fish habitats for long-term benefits.
Sept. 16, 2026, Redmond, Ore.—Heart of Oregon Corps has announced that an anonymous gift of $400,000 has closed the gap in funding needed for construction of Central Oregon’s first youth workforce development campus on 3.4 acres in Redmond, drawing to a close a major 5-year capital campaign for the visionary campus that began in 2021.
The landmark Legacy 25 campaign for Heart of Oregon Corps raised more than $8 million to ensure youth on the workforce track have an inspiring place to learn in support of our regional economy and their own bright futures. In total, more than 420 individuals, businesses and foundations have given to the campaign, which kicked off with a $2 million grant from the State of Oregon.
Community members are invited to join Heart of Oregon in celebrating this major regional accomplishment at the Grand Opening of the campus at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 30. For Grand Opening details and to RSVP, please visit hoccampus.org. Heart of Oregon Corps will also celebrate at the family-friendly Endless Summer Nights street fair this Saturday, from 3-6:30 p.m. on Sept. 19 at the Bend Park and Float.
The campaign pushed through many challenges including COVID disruptions, complex site partition and purchase, the loss of a potential $1 million appropriation from the federal government in 2025, rising construction costs, and headwinds from an array of economic challenges facing community partners. Despite these barriers, community members rallied together to ensure this powerful resource for youth and our economy was completed on-time, within 2% of budget, and without costly debt.
“We couldn’t be more grateful for the ways in which community members have shown up in support of Heart of Oregon, our youth participants, and the future of our programs,” said Laura Handy, Executive Director of Heart of Oregon. “We set out to build a central campus because our community’s need for a stronger workforce pipeline outpaced our capacity in aging and borrowed facilities—and the community understood this. Thank you to everyone who saw the vision and stepped up alongside us to make it reality, it has been an honor to work together.”
The anonymous donor behind the finish-line campus gift called Heart of Oregon a vital connector between young people and future employers. In its 26 years, Heart of Oregon has hired more than 5,000 youth ages 16-24 across Central Oregon with certifications, GED support, and paid job skills training. Young people apply skills learned in their communities doing land conservation such as wildfire fuels mitigation; building affordable housing with partners such as Habitat for Humanity; earning certifications in childcare; and maintaining beloved outdoor spaces at Smith Rock and other regional landmarks.
Located in central Redmond at HWY 126 & SE 9th St., the new campus will enhance job training and youth services across the region and is uniquely suited to the organization. The 3.4-acre campus includes a new 6,600-square-foot campus center with classrooms; a 14,000-square-foot training warehouse for hands-on workshops and trainings; and six equipment bays totaling 10,000-square-feet for housing large equipment inventory such as wood chippers and trailers. $420,000 of support from Oregon State renewable energy grants and Energy Trust of Oregon incentives equipped the campus with a renewable energy resilient system, including 88 solar panels, 12 EV chargers, and battery storage, that will save the organization an estimated $320,000 in power costs over the life of the equipment.
Heart of Oregon worked closely with BBT Architects, R&H Construction, Compass Commercial, Redpoint Construction Management, and FM Civic. The land was purchased through a special off-market agreement with Opportunity Foundation in 2025. The trauma-informed design of the Campus Center Building features youth-centered elements where young people feel a sense of belonging, camaraderie, and inspired to learn. The newly constructed, solar-powered campus building includes classrooms and offices, confidential meeting spaces, and laundry and shower facilities requested by youth.
“Being born and raised in Redmond, I’ve seen firsthand the impact Heart of Oregon Corps has on young people and our community,” said Leanna Aper, Development Director for Heart of Oregon. “It is incredibly meaningful to see so many funders, businesses, and community partners come together to make this campus possible. Our team is deeply grateful to have a space that will support the important work we do and help prepare young people for their futures for generations to come.”
As Heart of Oregon turns the page on a new chapter, additional funds contributed to the campaign will be dedicated to facility maintenance, fleet EV upgrades, and youth programming in the new space. Those interested in learning more are encouraged to email development@heartoforegon.org or attend the grand opening and ribbon cutting on Sept. 30.
Heart of Oregon is proud to recognize foundation and corporate campus donors at the following levels. Thank you for your support of the Legacy 25 Campaign.
- Legacy Leader ($75,000+): BASX, The Bend Foundation, Collins Foundation, The Ford Family Foundation, Hayden Homes, Joseph & Elizabeth Hoffart Charitable Foundation, JTMF Foundation, Marie Lamfrom Foundation, Maybelle Clark Macdonald Fund, M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, Max & Marie Anna Richter Family Fund of OCF, PGE Foundation, Roundhouse Foundation, Tykeson Family Foundation, and Wells Fargo Foundation.
- Trailblazer & $25K Club ($25,000+): Aperion Management Group, BBT Architects, Clark Foundation, Crevier Foundation, The Darhl and Donald Guinn Family Fund, First Interstate Bank, Les Schwab, Mike’s Fence Center, Pahlisch Homes, R&H Construction, and The Rosendin Foundation
- Gold ($10,000+): Budget Blinds, Clabough Foundation, Compass Commercial, Eddie Williamson Foundation, Healy Foundation, Johnson Brothers Appliances, Mid Oregon Credit Union, Pacific Catalyst, Taylor NW, and US Bank.
- Silver ($5,000+): Autzen Foundation, Bank of America Foundation, Bradford White, Building Solutions, Madras Sanitary Services, Panchura Quas Family Foundation, PCC Structural, Scott’s Roofing, Severson Plumbing & Fire, Sherwin Williams, Sisters Community Foundation, Soar4 Foundation, WaFd Bank, and Woodhill Homes
- Bronze ($2,500+): Bright Wood, Central Oregon Garage Door, Central Willamette Credit Union, Crooked River Sanitary, Deschutes Construction Corp, EC Electric, Mt. Bachelor, Parr Lumber, QXO, Redpoint Construction Management, Skanska, Solaire Homebuilders, SunWest Builders, TDS Telecom, and Technology Design Associates
ABOUT HEART OF OREGON CORPS
Heart of Oregon Corps (HOC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth and young adults through employment, job training, education, and service to Central Oregon communities.
Oregon is making significant strides in the reconstruction of housing lost during the wildfires of September 2020, which led to the evacuation of over 40,000 residents.
On September 7, 2020, multiple fires ignited across the state, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, ultimately consuming more than 1 million acres. Existing fires, such as Lionshead and Beachie Creek, intensified, while three new megafires—Archie Creek, Holiday Farm, and Riverside—devastated rural communities and the surrounding environment.
The Almeda Fire, which originated as a grass fire, resulted in the destruction of nearly 2,500 homes in Ashland, Talent, Phoenix, and urban areas of Jackson County. In response to this crisis, the Oregon Housing and Community Services received two rounds of funding, with the Oregon Legislature allocating over $150 million in August 2021 to aid in housing recovery efforts.
Oktoberfest coming to Mt. Ashland, September 19th!
Event tickets are $25 on sale now on our website and include a limited-edition Mt. Ashland beer stein and x5 beverage tokens, giving you the chance to sip on some of our region’s finest beverages. (Beer also available for purchase!)
For the costume contest, people are urged to “dress in your finest Bavarian attire for a chance at some awesome prizes.”
DFR warns investors about AI-powered investment scams
Salem – Artificial intelligence is making it easier for scammers to create convincing investment pitches, websites, videos, and messages, the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is warning.
AI tools can be useful for learning about investing and financial products, but fraudsters are using technology to make investment scams look more legitimate and reach potential victims more easily.
“Artificial intelligence may make a scam look more sophisticated, but the warning signs of investment fraud remain familiar,” said Oregon Insurance Commissioner and DFR Administrator TK Keen. “Consumers should slow down, independently verify who they are dealing with, and never let pressure or fear of missing out drive an investment decision. Always remember that if the investment sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
DFR is warning consumers about several common AI-related scams:
- Deepfakes and impersonation:Scammers can create realistic videos or audio of celebrities, public figures, financial professionals, friends, or family members promoting investments, including those promising unusually high or guaranteed returns.
- AI and cryptocurrency trading schemes:Fraudsters may advertise supposedly proprietary or guaranteed AI trading systems. Victims can be directed to fake platforms that display fabricated account balances or profits and then pressured to send additional money, often in cryptocurrency.
- AI voice and messaging scams:Voice-cloning technology can make calls or messages appear to come from someone the victim knows or trusts. Unsolicited investment recommendations should be independently verified.
- Romance scams:Fraudsters can use AI-generated images and chatbots to create convincing dating profiles and build relationships before persuading victims to invest in cryptocurrency, startups, or other purported opportunities.
Consumers should be particularly cautious about unsolicited investment offers, online advertisements featuring celebrities or public figures, unusual facial or body movements in videos, awkward or unnatural voice messages, requests for cryptocurrency payments, reluctance to meet or verify credentials, and websites that mimic legitimate financial firms.
DFR recommends that consumers:
- Pause before investing.Scammers often use urgency and fear of missing out to pressure victims into making quick decisions.
- Verify registration.Confirm that the person or company offering an investment is properly registered. Registration does not guarantee an investment is risk-free, but an unregistered seller is a significant warning sign.
- Research independently.Search for the investment company, the individual making the offer, and their contact information. Do not rely solely on information provided by the person pitching the investment.
- Do not rely on AI alone.AI tools can produce inaccurate, outdated, or fabricated information. Consumers should cross-check investment claims with reliable sources and consult a registered investment professional when appropriate.
- Verify unexpected communications.If a message, call, or video appears to come from a financial adviser, friend, or family member, contact that person through a trusted, independent method before acting.
Consumers who suspect they have been targeted by an AI investment scam should report the activity to DFR and appropriate authorities, including the Oregon Department of Justice or the Federal Trade Commission. Reporting suspected fraud can help regulators identify emerging scams and protect other consumers.
DFR also warns consumers to be cautious of anyone offering to recover money lost in an investment scam. Such offers can be another scam targeting victims who have already lost money. To report suspected investment fraud or if you have been a victim of a scam, contact DFR at 1-888-877-4894 or email dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.
FIND YOUR COMMUNITY FOOD BANK
Our network of food banks and pantries provides free food and groceries across Oregon. No proof of income or documentation required.
https://www.oregonfoodbank.org/
If you can’t make it to a food location, someone else can pick up food for you.You will just need to print and fill out the Authorized Representative form at https://lnkd.in/dsskUpkQ, and have them take it with them to the food sites. You can find step-by-step instructions at https://lnkd.in/dVBRxn-A.
Worried about recent changes or losing assistance?
Here are resources that can help: 211Info: Dial 2-1-1 or visit the 211Info food webpagefor information and referrals to more than 1,500 food resources across Oregon. Oregon Food Bank: Use the Oregon Food Bank’s Food Finder Map to find over 100 food pantries, free food markets or hot meal programs near you. Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC): Call 855-673-2372 or visit the ADRC food webpage to find local meal programs and food boxes in your area.
Oregon Department of Human Services – Many Oregonians may qualify for SNAP work or activity rule exemptions without realizing it
Could you qualify for an exemption to SNAP work or activity rules? Contact us so we can talk about your situation and your options! Common reasons people might qualify include:- You’re pregnant.- You’re physically or mentally unable to work.- You’re already working enough hours to meet the requirement.- You’re participating in a qualifying education or training program.- You have moved to an exempt county or waived Tribal land.- You are responsible for caring for a child or another person, depending on their circumstances. Learn more about exemptions in this news release: https://apps.oregon.gov/…/many-oregonians-may-qualify…Or visit https://oregon.gov/snapworkrules to find information about SNAP work rules and more.
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