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.
Monday, September 28, 2026
Klamath Basin Weather
Today
Sunny, with a steady temperature around 69. Overnight, clear with a low near 40 degrees.
Today’s News Headlines
Pacific Power Foundation awards $56,000 to Southern Oregon organizations
The Pacific Power Foundation is proud to support 13 Southern Oregon organizations working to protect the environment and strengthen their communities.
Funding will help provide hands-on outdoor education for students, expand volunteer initiatives and support career training programs that create opportunities for the community.“Across Oregon, these organizations are empowering their neighbors to learn new skills and care for the environment around them,” said Ryan Flynn, director of the Pacific Power Foundation and president of Pacific Power. “We are pleased to support this meaningful work and the positive impact it has on our communities.”
These funds were awarded through the Pacific Power Foundation’s Community Enhancement and Environmental Respect grant cycle. Organizations interested in applying for the Foundation’s next grant cycle, Safety and Wellness, may apply by December 15.
The following organizations in southern Oregon received funding during this grant cycle:
- Assistance League® of Klamath Basin in Klamath Falls received $7,000.
- Central Point Little League received $2,000.
- Central Point Parks and Recreation Foundation received $2,000.
- The City of Shady Cove received $2,000.
- The Coquille Watershed Association received $5,000.
- Friends of Klamath County Library in Klamath Falls received $2,000.
- Habitat for Humanity Rogue Valley in Medford received $5,000.
- The Illinois Valley Fire Resiliency Oversight Group received $2,000.
- The Josephine County Foundation in Murphy received $8,000.
- The Knights of Columbus Council 1261 in Coos Bay received $5,000.
- The Oregon Center for Creative Learning in Medford is $5,000.
- The Prospect Rural Fire Protection District in Prospect received $5,000.
- Umpqua Valley Habitat for Humanity in Roseburg received $6,000.
The Department of the Air Force has published its final Environmental Impact Statement regarding the proposal to station a squadron of F-35A Lightning II fighter jets at Kingsley Field Air National Guard Base, which would replace the outdated F-15C/D fleet.
This initiative involves the 173rd Fighter Wing receiving up to 24 F-35A aircraft, along with two additional units, and entails substantial enhancements to the base’s infrastructure.
The transition aims to facilitate ongoing pilot training as the Air Force phases out older F-15s, which are becoming increasingly costly to maintain due to parts shortages.
According to the proposal, the initial F-35As are expected to arrive by 2027, with full operational capability anticipated by 2029.
The Air Force forecasts a 55% rise in annual airfield operations, increasing from 13,440 flights with F-15s in 2023 to 20,780 with F-35As to accommodate training requirements. While most flight training will occur at high altitudes, there will be a slight increase in low-level operations.
The plan encompasses the construction of new and renovated facilities within the existing lease area of the base, as well as two airfield projects in collaboration with the city of Klamath Falls and the Federal Aviation Administration, which will also result in the addition of approximately 30 new support staff, raising total personnel at the base to over 1,170.
Importantly, the proposal does not include the establishment of new military airspace, and Kingsley Field will not be involved in the storage or use of live air-to-ground munitions. Training will utilize existing airspace, simulators, and approved offsite ranges.
The Air Force also evaluated a “no action” alternative that would forgo the basing of new aircraft at Kingsley Field, concluding that this option would leave the 173rd Fighter Wing without a permanent flying mission, thereby jeopardizing national security and the objectives for pilot production.
Oregon Tech has reaffirmed its status as one of the leading universities in the United States, as highlighted in the U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Colleges 2027” rankings, which evaluated over 1,700 institutions.
In the regional rankings for the West, Oregon Institute of Technology secured the second position among public schools and was recognized as one of the best colleges for veterans. Additionally, it ranked 11th in best value schools and 19th in top performers in social mobility.
On a national scale, Oregon Tech achieved the 44th position in undergraduate engineering programs.
President Nagi Naganathan emphasized that the institution’s achievements are ultimately reflected in the success of its students and alumni. He noted that these accolades underscore the distinctive qualities of an Oregon Tech education, which includes rigorous academic programs, exceptional career preparation, and a strong return on investment, all of which foster social mobility.
Naganathan expressed gratitude for the dedication of faculty and staff in creating an applied learning environment that equips students with the necessary knowledge and experience to make meaningful contributions from the outset, thereby advancing the university’s mission to enhance the human condition.
Klamath County Fire District 1 firefighters dedicated the past week to enhancing their skills in relay pumping operations, aimed at improving water delivery in regions lacking hydrants.
This training emphasized the efficient transportation of substantial water volumes over extended distances, a crucial technique in rural and remote areas where access to hydrants is limited. KCFD1 highlighted the importance of a dependable water supply during firefighting efforts, noting that uninterrupted water flow is essential for effectively safeguarding lives and property.
The district asserted that this training not only prepares crews for emergencies but also promotes safety and ensures they can provide optimal service when time is of the essence.
City of Klamath Falls Geothermal System Activation To Begin Tuesday, Sept. 29th
The City of Klamath Falls Water / Geothermal Division crews will begin activating the geothermal system for the fall and winter season on Tuesday.
Geothermal Maintenance CrewBeginning September 29, crews will start charging the downtown geothermal
infrastructure for the fall and winter season. The Division’s goal is to have the entire system fully operational by Thursday October 1, 2026. During this startup period, customers may experience reduced heat in their private systems until the end of business day on Thursday.
The Water/Geothermal Division Staff would like to thank our citizens in advance for their patience during this startup process. If you would like more information about our geothermal system seasonal shutdowns,
please call Water / Geothermal Division at (541) 883-5388 or City Public Works Department at (541) 883-5363.
KLAMATH COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
MAJOR WORK FOR THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2026
Klamath County will have work crews at the following locations. Please use caution when in these
areas and watch for flaggers. If you are able to avoid the work zones, please use an alternate
route for your safety and the safety of Klamath County employees and our contractors.
Campbell Road west of Ivory Pine Road
Traffic is limited to one lane over County Bridge 1210-4 (North Fork Sprague River).
Matney Way between Wong Road and Hill Road.
Traffic is limited to one lane over County Bridge 904-2 (Lost River), with a 10-ton weight limit in
effect. No semi-trucks are permitted.
ROAD CLOSED: East Langell Valley Road between Jones Road and Bunn Way including the
intersection with Bunn Way – Monday, August 10 through Thursday, October 1.
Traffic will no longer be allowed through the intersection of East Langell Valley Road and Bunn
Way as road drainage improvements begin. See attached map for detour route.
NIGHT WORK: Homedale Road between Sturdivant Avenue and Bartlett Avenue.
The City of Klamath Falls will be conducting night work from 9pm to 7am. Please contact the
City with any questions regarding this project at (541) 883-5363. Expect lane closures, delays,
and active work zones.
Wesgo Drive – Utility Work
Expect lane closures and delays for utility crossings.
In general, flagging stations will be set up at the end of the work zone and delays will be 0 to 20
minutes for the motoring public. Our goal is to minimize the delay to the motoring public. Other
minor work is occurring throughout the County, but we are only listing the major items in this
announcement. There may be adjustments of work schedules due to weather or other items
outside of the County’s control (breakdown of equipment, material/resource availability, etc.)
Please do not contact the County if you do not see work occurring, it could be finished already or
will be rescheduled.
Klamath County Public Works and the Board of County Commissioners appreciate the motoring
publics’ patience during the repair season for our local roads and bridges. If you have any
questions regarding work, please contact the Public Works Department at (541) 883-4696.
With the holidays ahead, the Klamath-Lake County Food Bank has announced several ongoing local food drives and is seeking assistance to provide meals during the Thanksgiving season.
Essential items needed for the holiday include boxed stuffing, chicken broth, dry gravy packets, canned cranberries, and canned vegetables, among others.
Donations can be dropped off at various locations, including the Holliday Jewelry Power Up food drive and the Klamath County Museum. For further information on how to contribute or participate, please contact these local organizations directly.
EVENTS IN THE BASIN
Klamath Music, in collaboration with the Klamath County Museum, invites the community to attend the upcoming Under Klamath Skies event on Thursday, October 1, from 6 to 8 PM at the Klamath County Museum.
This event is free of charge and welcomes attendees of all ages. Now in its fourth year, Under Klamath Skies aims to showcase the cultural richness of the Basin through live performances, local artistry, museum tours, and opportunities for community engagement.
This fall, the event will also feature Cherry Blossom Boutique, introducing a fashion component to the evening’s celebration of creativity and culture. Attendees can savor food and beverages available for purchase, explore various museum exhibits, and enjoy complimentary trolley rides throughout downtown.
The performance lineup for October 1 includes Micah Lambert at 6:00 PM and Roger Jaeger, who will present a sitar-focused set at 7:00 PM. Whether you are a long-time resident or a newcomer to the Basin, Under Klamath Skies provides a welcoming environment to immerse yourself in music, art, history, and local fashion all in one evening. CLICK HERE FOR INFO: https://klamathmusic.com/
It’s 541 Jumps 4th Annual Pumpkin Festival at the Klamath County Fairgrounds this weekend. Enjoy 10 bounce houses, with unlimited play for just $15! Plus face painting, carnival games, food trucks, pumpkin patch, hay rides, and so much more! Admission is free!
The Klamath County Museum presents, a Night at the Cemetery this Saturday and Sunday evening at the Linkville Cemetery with the first tours beginning at 5:30. For ticket information, contact the Klamath County Library.
This Saturday evening the Ross Ragland Theatre presents, Ted Vigil, a John Denver Tribute concert. This wonderful and exciting show will feature John Denver’s most beloved hits, like Take Me Home Country Roads, Leaving on a Jet Plane, Sunshine on my Shoulders, and many more.
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 Saturday!
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/
Meet This week’s pet ready for adoption
at Klamath Animal Shelter… a dog named Hudson!
Hudson is a 4 1/2 month old male Mastiff mix. His mom is the mastiff mix and his dad is unknown.
Hudson is tan with white on his face, chest and feet, with some black highlights. Little Hudson weighs about 31 pounds but still has lots of growing to do.
Hudson is the last puppy from his litter, looking for his forever home. We hope you will come see him.
He is a friendly happy boy, loves toys, and he’s learning to walk on a leash, still needs to learn his basic commands. He has started on his house training, has been around children as young as 5 years old, and likes to chase kitties that run. ha!
If you are interested in adopting Hudson, the Klamath Animal Shelter is located at 4240 Washburn Way, open Monday through Friday from 12:00PM – 4:00PM.
You can reach the shelter at 541-884-PETS (541-884-7387).
View all adoptable pets anytime online at http://www.
And we are always accepting pet food and blankets and monetary donations at the shelter. Thank you.
BasinLife.com is a proud sponsor of Klamath Animal Shelter.
Play our You-Pick-Em Pro Football Contest from BasinLife.com!
Click the pic to enter and play!
Around the State of Oregon
Oregon Department of Administrative Services Announces Maximum Rent Increases for Landlords
Today, the Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) published the annual maximum rent increases allowed by law for calendar year 2027.
The maximum allowable rent increase percentage in 2027 for tenancies subject to ORS 90.324(b) is 10%.
Per ORS 90.324, “no later than September 30th of each year, the Oregon Department of Administrative Services shall calculate the maximum annual rent increase percentage allowed for the following calendar year:
- For tenancies subject to ORS 90.600 (1) in facilities* with more than 30 spaces, as six percent.”
- “For tenancies subject to ORS 90.600 (1) in facilities* with 30 or fewer spaces or for tenancy types subject to ORS 90.323, percentage is the lesser of:
- Ten percent; or
- Seven percent plus Consumer Price Index (CPI).”
To view the methodology, calculation and Consumer Price Index data, refer to the Maximum Annual Rent Increase 2027 (Excel file).
The allowable rent increase percentage for calendar year 2026 was 9.5%.
Questions related to the administration of the maximum allowable rent increase and other landlord-tenant concerns can be directed to Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS).
*”Facilities” is defined as manufactured dwellings and marinas.
Oregon legislators have recently taken steps to regulate the use of Flock cameras, a technology that has garnered bipartisan attention from anti-surveillance advocates across the country.
As discussions for further legislation in 2027 intensify, concerns regarding the misuse of this technology have been met with widespread bipartisan criticism. A recent U.S. Senate hearing highlighted these issues, featuring testimony from a Florida woman who recounted her harrowing experience of spending 13 days in jail due to a Flock camera’s erroneous identification of her vehicle in a fatal hit-and-run incident.
Flock Safety, the Atlanta-based company that produces these cameras, has faced significant backlash from civil rights organizations, which argue that the data generated by these devices has led to wrongful accusations, enabled police harassment of individuals, and supported immigration enforcement efforts. In response to these concerns, several cities in Oregon have ceased the use of Flock cameras in the past year, although they continue to be utilized by private businesses and other entities
FATAL CRASH – INTERSTATE 84 – GILLIAM COUNTY
On Sunday, September 27, 2026, at approximately 12:23 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 84 near milepost 140 in Gilliam County.
The preliminary investigation indicated, a white Toyota Avalon, operated by Adhishwar Ramanathan (24) of Umatilla, was traveling eastbound on I-84 near Arlington when it left the lane of travel for an unknown reason and struck the end of the guardrail. The vehicle came to rest facing westbound in the eastbound lane.
The operator of the Toyota (Ramanathan) was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by the Gilliam County Sheriff’s Office, the North Gilliam County Rural Fire Protection District, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
Oregon is requesting that approximately 11,000 food assistance recipients confirm their income as part of an effort to minimize errors in benefit payments.
The state initiated this process by sending out notifications on September 16, following the revelation of a SNAP payment error rate of 14.14 percent. Recipients are required to submit the necessary information by September 28 to avoid potential reductions or termination of their benefits.
Officials have indicated that these income reviews will extend into the following year.
Asante and the nurses’ union at Rogue Regional Medical Center are working towards finalizing a new multi-year contract by the end of the month.
The two parties are scheduled to meet for the ninth time this Thursday, continuing negotiations that began in July, as their current agreement is set to expire at the end of September.
Following their meeting on September 10, both sides issued a joint statement emphasizing the importance of nurse scheduling, noting that their discussions enhanced mutual understanding of the complexities involved and highlighted the significance of scheduling in promoting a sustainable work environment for nurses while supporting the community.
Oregon students have shown some advancement in state assessments, yet the latest results indicate that a majority still fall short of meeting the established standards in English, mathematics, and science.
The Oregon Department of Education has published the 2025-26 statewide assessment results, offering a current overview of student performance throughout the state.
In English language arts, 43.8% of students tested met or exceeded the state standard, while in mathematics, the figure was 32.9%, and in science, it stood at 30.6%.
Although state education officials recognize signs of progress, particularly in mathematics, they also emphasize that Oregon faces significant challenges ahead, asserting that mere additional tutoring and interventions will not suffice to achieve the desired improvements.
A new tax incentive has been introduced for Oregon employers for the 2026 tax year.
The Qualified Jobs Creation Tax Credit, which was enacted in Salem earlier this year, offers a $1,000 state income tax credit for each net new qualifying job created by Oregon businesses. Employers can accumulate a maximum of $10,000 annually; however, eligibility is limited to certain businesses.
This program specifically targets seven industries: advanced manufacturing, bioscience and biotechnology, clean technology, food and beverage processing, forestry and wood products, high technology, and outdoor gear and apparel.
Applications for the 2026 tax year are currently being accepted until October 31st.
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Commission has officially adopted the big-game regulations for 2027 during their recent meeting in La Grande, establishing a variety of hunting opportunities.
The new regulations encompass hunts for species such as deer, elk, pronghorn, black bear, cougar, bighorn sheep, and Rocky Mountain goats, with seasons and tag allocations largely mirroring those of 2026, aside from adjustments for calendar shifts.
Printed regulations are expected to be available by late November. In 2027, hunters will encounter modifications in the western Oregon elk hunts due to the Cascades Elk population remaining below management objectives. Specifically, the spike-only bag limit for legal weapon coast elk hunts will transition from the second to the first period, a strategic change aimed at distributing hunters more evenly across both periods.
Additionally, three Wildlife Management Units will alter their bag limit structure from two bull elk periods to one any bull period and one spike-only period, a measure designed to improve bull ratios to meet management goals.
Furthermore, the cow harvest in the West Cascades hunt will be curtailed by eliminating antlerless elk from the bag limits for various tags, including the General Archery Season Tag and the Santiam Unit Traditional Bow hunt, as well as for holders of an Oregon Hunting and Fishing Disability Permit.
Oregon Arts Commission awards $150,000 in Arts Learning grants to 15 organizations statewide
SALEM, Ore. – Fifteen Oregon arts organizations will receive $10,000 grants to strengthen K-12 arts education for the upcoming year through the Oregon Arts Commission’s Arts Learning grant program.
“Through this grant program, thousands of students will have an opportunity to engage with the arts in the classroom,” said Tiff Harker, Arts Education and Grants Coordinator. “Arts organizations partner with schools and students greatly benefit from the enhancement of cognitive skills, creative problem-solving and self-empowerment.”
Arts Learning grants support projects that provide K-12 students with responsive learning opportunities in and through the arts. These projects also foster the exchange of knowledge between artists and educators and positively impact the achievement, skills and attitudes of learners. Learn more about the program on our website.
Applications were evaluated by a community review panel. The panel’s funding recommendations were then approved by the Oregon Arts Commission.
Funds for this grant program are provided by the state of Oregon general fund through its support of the Oregon Arts Commission and by a federal grant to the Arts Commission by the National Endowment for the Arts.
Some of the grands included:
The Open Arts Center, Bend
To support equitable access to arts education for students at Bear Creek Elementary, a bilingual Title I school in Bend that recently lost dedicated arts instruction, The Open Arts Center will partner with school educators to provide three sequential six-week artist residencies during the 2026-2027 school year, engaging approximately 75-90 students in hands-on visual, performing and interdisciplinary arts experiences led by professional teaching artists. It will culminate with public showcases of student learning.
Sticks and Stones Studio, Jacksonville
To support the reintegration of K-5 art programming into the Ruch Outdoor Community School’s lasting curriculum through the transformation of their existing classroom space into a self-sustaining Teaching for Artistic Behavior studio. This will equip students and educators with the creative autonomy and artistic thinking skills to thrive independently, ensuring the program continues long after direct nonprofit involvement ends.
About the Oregon Arts Commission
The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, arts programs and funding for nonprofits and artists through its grants, special initiatives and services. Commissioners appointed by the Governor establish policies and provide advisory support for public investment in the arts. Nested within Business Oregon, the Arts Commission works to support the economies, educational opportunities and vibrancy of communities throughout the state. The Arts Commission is supported with funds appropriated by the Oregon Legislature, as well as by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Oregon Cultural Trust. Learn more at oregonartscommission.org and follow us on Facebook, and Instagram
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.
Thanks for reading the the news on BasinLife.com from Wynne Broadcasting.
Ready to Advertise? Let us get the word out for your business! We offer more local advertising opportunities than anyone in the Klamath Basin.
Call BasinLife.com at 541-363-7503. Or email us today at INFO@BasinLife.com with your name, business, and what you’re looking for. We’ll customize a plan fit for your budget.
You can receive Daily Radio Mentions across our 6 stations, Articles, direct link Banner Ads, floating Banner Ads on hundreds of article pages daily, Social Media Posts and also available are Email Blasts to thousands of local residents.
We can also keep you updated with the latest smart digital marketing strategies for 2025 for your business. BasinLife.com is still the best value in the Klamath Basin for advertising, now in our 9th year promoting businesses in Southern Oregon.
For information or prices on plans, simply call us today at 541-363-7503 or email us at Info@BasinLife.com. Let us keep your business top-of -mind!