(above) Smoke billows on Monday from burning vehicles amid a wave of violence after drug lord Nemesio Oseguera, known as “El Mencho,” was killed, in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico. Flights cancelled to many vacation destinations. Some vacationers still stuck in Mexico. Read more in our Oregon news.
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 KFLS News/Talk 1450AM / 102.5FM, The Herald and News, and BasinLife.com, and powered by Mick Insurance. Call them at 541-882-6476.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2026
Klamath Basin Weather
Rain, mainly before 5pm. High near 48. South southwest wind 8 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. A 40% chance of rain, mainly after 10pm. Snow level 7500 feet lowering to 6200 feet after midnight Overnight, cloudy, with a low around 35. West southwest wind around 8 mph.
See Road Camera Views around the Klamath Basin:
Lake of the Woods
Doak Mtn.
Hiway 97 at Chemult
Hiway 140 at Bly
Hiway 97 at GreenSprings Dr.
Hiway 97 at LaPine
Today’s Klamath Falls Headlines
The administration of the Klamath Falls City School District is proactively urging the community to volunteer in anticipation of potential labor mediation failures with its classified employees in the upcoming weeks.
Conversely, the union representing the district’s classified employees is accusing KFCSD of employing unprecedented and purportedly “disingenuous, illegal tactics.”
Recently, KFCSD informed both parents and the public about the district’s “contingency plan” in the event that the Klamath Falls Association of Classified Employees (KFACE) opts to strike. However, this notification was issued five days before the scheduled mediation. To prepare for a possible strike, the district is requesting volunteers from the community to help with various tasks, including supervising recess, managing lunchroom duties, providing meal services, and monitoring transportation.
Superintendent Keith Brown indicated that the district currently has approximately 1,000 volunteers registered.
Former Trail Blazer Star Chris Dudley To Run For Governor
The competition for Oregon’s Republican governor candidacy is steep with the latest addition standing a head — or two — above others.
Chris Dudley, a former Oregon Trail Blazer whose career lasted 16 seasons in the NBA, recently announced his entrance into the primary race for the governor’s office.
The 2026 primaries will be Dudley’s second attempt for the state office following a narrow loss in 2010 to Republican candidate John Kitzhaber.
Dudley is on a tour of the state this month, stopping in Klamath Falls last week for an event hosted by the Klamath County Republicans.
Standing 6’11, the former NBA center stayed true to his position with largely nonpartisan issues at the forefront. His campaign focuses on “education, economy (and) livability,” which, he said, “includes affordability and safety.” “Those are messages that resonate across party lines,” Dudley said.
A fifth-generation Oregonian himself, Dudley said he wants what’s best for the sixth and, one day, seventh generation Oregonians of his and all local families.
“What we want is pretty simple,” Dudley said. “We want to have schools and education that we’re all proud of. We want our kids to be able to have jobs. We want them to be able to afford to live where they grew up, and we want safe streets.”
The office of governor, he said, is powerful. “You have powerful tools as governor: power of the pen … power of the purse … power of the pulpit. Being able to restore some balance to our state is critically important,” he said, noting that of all current appointed officials, only one was appointed by a Republican governor.
“Lots of people are believing that we can win because we can,” he said. “And … (it’s) imperative we do so now. It is imperative we change the direction we’re going … It’s imperative that we have somebody come to the table from the outside. I don’t believe … Oregon’s problems are going to be solved by someone who lives out in Salem.”
Dudley is the latest to join the race with 15 candidates in the gubernatorial primaries so far.
Keno Dam release raises safety concerns for Klamath River users
By our friend LEE JUILLERAT of the Herald and News
The Bureau of Reclamation, in coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and NOAA Fisheries, announced Friday it is directing temporary flow adjustments at both Link River Dam and Keno Dam to reduce the risk of disease for salmon in the Klamath River.
The increased flow adjustments are effective immediately.
During the water releases, which begin Friday and continue to March 3, BOR officials said flows will vary on the Link and Klamath rivers. Releases from Upper Klamath Lake through Link River Dam will result in flows below Keno Dam increasing by approximately 4,000 cubic feet per second. A peak of 4,640 cfs below Keno Dam was expected to occur for 24 hours from Friday until today, Saturday. Flows will then ramp down to 750 cfs at Keno Dam by March 3. The public is urged to take safety precautions near the rivers.
“Upon completion of the flushing flow event, Reclamation will continue to manage Upper Klamath Lake elevations and Klamath River flows in accordance with the 2024 Biological Opinions and state law,” BOR said in a statement to the Herald and News. “This flushing flow is an Endangered Species Act requirement and was implemented in coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, NOAA Fisheries, Tribal Nations, and water contractors.”
In announcing the water release earlier this week, the BOR has cautioned that “boaters and river users should be cautious of potentially dangerous, sudden increases of water levels on February 20 and possibly at unpredictable times during the subsequent ramp-down.”
Earlier this week, American Wilderness, a group that advocates for the “preservation and protection of whitewater rivers,” expressed concerns the high-volume water release from the Keno Dam would pose a serious public safety risk to people on and along the Klamath River in Oregon and California.
The releases are not unprecedented. Similar releases were done in 2025 for Klamath Project water contractors to provide water users with water for irrigation delivery and reservoir storage based on estimates of water available from forecasts of precipitation and snowpack.
The Klamath Project consists of approximately 240,000 irrigable acres, equivalent to 275 square miles, and is connected to two national wildlife refuges in Southern Oregon and Northern California. An annual plan is used “as a planning and information tool by water users and details the volume of water available for Project irrigated agriculture as well as water reserved to meet Endangered Species Act requirements in the Klamath River and Upper Klamath Basin,” according to the BOR.
Concerns, however, were voiced by Thomas O’Keefe, director of policy and science at American Whitewater. In a press release he cautioned, “Rapid, unannounced surges of this magnitude can strand anglers, overwhelm boaters, and wash people off riverbanks with little or no warning. We fully support flushing flows that are beneficial to the river’s ecology, but the way BOR conducts them creates dangerous conditions that river users cannot anticipate or safely escape.”
The affected river corridor extends from Keno Dam to Seiad Valley, Calif. — about 100 miles downstream — and includes the popular Big Bend, Hells Corner, Beswick, K’íka·c’é·ki Valley, K’íka·c’é·ki Canyon, and Iron Gate whitewater boating runs. According to O’Keefe, winter storm forecasts for the region could further elevate flows and compound hazards.
“American Whitewater emphasizes that standard safety practices at many dams limit how quickly flows are increased so river users can perceive rising water and react,” according to the statement. “BOR has acknowledged public safety concerns but has not incorporated gradual ramp-up procedures for Keno Dam operations — procedures it uses at its nearby Trinity River Division Project, also within the Klamath River watershed.”
O’Keefe cited concerns from last year’s water release, saying, “Recent experience underscores the danger. In early 2025, abrupt releases from Keno Dam caused river stage increases of multiple feet in minutes and up to ten feet per hour in some downstream canyon reaches, conditions that could be life‑threatening for anyone on the river. With the removal of downstream dams, these surges now travel through newly restored river sections that are increasingly popular for boating, fishing, and other recreation.”
American Whitewater has urged BOR to “modify operations to include safer ramping rates, advance notice to the public, and improved communication tools so river users can plan and respond appropriately. Practical measures include limiting the rate of flow increases, implementing stepped releases with hold periods, publishing short‑term forecasts of operations, and providing timely alerts.”
The group cautioned that people near the Klamath River during the ongoing ramp‑down period “should remain alert for rapidly rising water levels that may occur without warning. River users are strongly encouraged to monitor conditions closely and exercise extreme caution.”
The Oregon Tech Foundation is pleased to announce the creation of a new scholarship, the Alexis Lyle Runyan Memorial Endowed Scholarship, aimed at assisting nursing students from the Klamath Basin who are pursuing their studies at Oregon Tech.
The initial endowment of $250,000 has been generously provided by the Runyan Family of Portland. The family history of Alexis Lyle Runyan is deeply connected to the medical field in Klamath Falls. One year after her birth in 1910, her parents, Alexander Joseph and Jessie Chilton Lyle, moved to Klamath Falls and established the community’s first genuine hospital, Blackburn Sanitarium.
Alexis, who graduated from the University of Oregon Business School in 1932, was a dedicated volunteer within the community. In 1964, the Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital (now known as Sky Lakes Medical Center) was inaugurated, leading to the formation of a Women’s Volunteer Guild.
Alexis played a pivotal role in organizing the Guild and was elected as its first board president that same year. Throughout her life, she continued to be an active and committed volunteer for the Guild.
The BLM Klamath Falls Field Office is seeking to recruit one volunteer campground host for the Gerber Recreation Area and another for the Topsy Campground for the forthcoming season.
If your ideal summer consists of expansive skies, tranquil evenings beneath the stars, and welcoming guests who share your passion for the outdoors, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) presents an opportunity that merits consideration.
Camp hosting offers a wonderful chance for an adventurous individual or couple with an RV to Campground hosts act as friendly and knowledgeable representatives for the BLM. They provide assistance to visitors with inquiries regarding local recreational activities, natural resources, road access, and campground regulations.
Additionally, hosts contribute to light maintenance tasks, which include cleaning and restocking restrooms, collecting trash, updating signs and bulletin boards, managing fee stations, and ensuring the recreation area remains in optimal condition. When challenges arise, hosts are responsible for addressing them or connecting visitors with the relevant BLM personnel.
The Klamath County Association of Realtors (KCAR) has announced that it has been awarded a placemaking grant of $7,500 to assist in the development of a new shaded gathering area at Chiloquin City Park.
This initiative aims to transform underutilized public land into a lively community space intended to foster social interaction. This local grant is made possible through financial support from the National Association of Realtors, which is part of its Community Development Advocacy program.
This program empowers Realtor associations to enhance their communities through effective advocacy, partnerships, and practical initiatives. As part of this initiative, KCAR will aid the City of Chiloquin in the installation of a new gazebo, ADA-compliant picnic tables, grills, and additional amenities.
The project will be executed collaboratively to ensure it meets local needs, incorporates community feedback, and promotes shared stewardship. In addition to the funding, local Realtors will contribute to the project by volunteering their time for the installation.
This endeavor is being carried out by the City of Chiloquin and Chiloquin Visions in Progress, along with numerous other community partners who are providing volunteer hours, materials, expertise, and financial support.
Klamath County Public Health update: Funding available for wood stove change-out and weatherization
Residents living within the Air Quality Zone may qualify to participate in a program to transition from old wood-burning heating devices to cleaner heating sources and/or weatherization services.
Up to $10,000 per household is available to replace wood stoves or fireplaces with gas or electric appliances. Professional installation is included. Licensed contractors will help determine the replacement device to best fit your needs, manage the removal of old devices and install high-efficiency replacements.
Program participation is prioritized for low-to-moderate income households using wood-burning devices as a primary heat source.
There is also $5,000 per household available for weatherization, such as insulation, air sealing, and minor repairs.
Apply here online, or call 541.882.8846
Community members are invited to reveal their philanthropic spirit by supporting arts in education at the Ross Ragland Theater’s annual Masquerade Education Fundraiser on February 28.
Familiar faces may be concealed, yet their generosity will undoubtedly be evident. Guests are encouraged to express their sophisticated side in the traditional style of the masquerade ball, complete with masks. This marks the theater’s fifth annual fundraising event, uniting the community to support cherished arts programs for local youth of school age. Youth participants from previous years have contributed their voices to some of the theater’s locally published statements.
The Ragland Masquerade serves as the main funding source for the theater’s educational programming, which offers over 20,000 opportunities for arts education, as stated in a news release.
Mary Williams Hyde, a prominent photographer from Klamath Falls, will demonstrate and teach her expertise during two weekends dedicated to conservation-themed bird and wildlife photography.
Hyde’s portfolio, available at buckaroocountry.smugmug.com/Birds-and-Wildlife, showcases the avian and wildlife species of the Klamath Basin and Eastern Oregon. She intends to share some of the techniques she has perfected during two sessions titled “Focus on Refuges.”
The initial session is scheduled from March 6th to 9th at the headquarters of the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge in Tulelake, while the second workshop will take place from April 3 to 6 at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge headquarters near Burns.
These sessions are organized by the Friends of Malheur. According to the workshop organizers, Hyde’s expertise and local connections “make her an ideal guide for an intimate field experience that emphasizes both artistry and ethical practices.”
Regarding the workshops, Hyde expressed, “I have requested, on my part, to create a relaxed weekend that allows for ample one-on-one interaction with each participant.”
BIRDS OF THE KLAMATH BASIN – Art from area artists for show and sale at Klamath Art Gallery in March
Around the State of Oregon
Flights to and from Mexico are being canceled due to ongoing security operations, related road blockages, and criminal activity, as reported by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico.
Current hotel guests in many cities in Mexico are staying in place and have been asked not to leave their hotel at this time. Local police are trying to guard all vacation hotels and resorts.
This announcement follows the Mexican army’s operation that resulted in the death of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader, Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” on Sunday. Oseguera Cervantes sustained injuries during an attempt to capture him in Tapalpa, Jalisco, which is approximately a two-hour drive southwest of Guadalajara, and he succumbed to his injuries while being transported to Mexico City, as stated by the Defense Department.
Portland International Airport is one of the affected locations, with Alaska Airlines attributing some of its cancellations to civil unrest occurring near Mexican airports. Furthermore, U.S. citizens currently in Mexico are being urged to shelter in place in various areas of the region, according to U.S. officials.
The U.S. Department of State’s Consular Affairs has indicated in a post on its TravelGov X account that several domestic and international flights are being canceled in both Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta due to the ongoing situation. Stay tuned for more information.
PacifiCorp has successfully negotiated a comprehensive settlement amounting to $575 million, which addresses all known federal government claims for damages associated with the 2020 Labor Day wildfires—specifically the 242, Archie Creek, Echo Mountain, Slater, and South Obenchain fires—as well as the 2022 McKinney wildfire.
PacifiCorp has successfully negotiated a comprehensive settlement amounting to $575 million, which addresses all known federal government claims for damages associated with the 2020 Labor Day wildfires—specifically the 242, Archie Creek, Echo Mountain, Slater, and South Obenchain fires—as well as the 2022 McKinney wildfire.
A devastating accident occurred early Sunday morning, resulting in the deaths of two students from Ashland High School, as reported by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO on Monday on East Nevada Street.
The vehicle involved, an Audi A6, collided with a tree, leading to the immediate death of the 17-year-old driver at the scene.
Emergency responders from Jackson County Fire District 5 and Ashland Fire & Rescue were engaged in the rescue efforts to free the remaining four passengers, all of whom were also 17 years old. Mercy Flights transported the injured survivors to a nearby hospital, where they were treated for critical injuries.
Regrettably, one of the passengers was declared dead shortly after arrival. The other three passengers are currently hospitalized and in stable condition.
The Ashland School District has been notified of the tragedy and is offering grief counseling services to both students and staff. Superintendent Dr. Joseph Hattrick has reiterated the district’s dedication to supporting the community during this challenging period.
The Oregon Department of Revenue is currently in the process of distributing refunds for the 2025 tax year.
As of February 17, over 500,000 electronically submitted tax returns have been processed. Most taxpayers can anticipate receiving their refunds within a two-week period following their filing. Nevertheless, certain returns may necessitate additional time, potentially extending up to 20 weeks.
In 2026, Oregon will be providing a $1.41 billion revenue surplus “kicker” to taxpayers. This credit will either enhance refunds or decrease state tax obligations. Taxpayers who are eligible are those who have filed returns for both the 2024 and 2025 tax years. The kicker credit is determined by the 2024 Oregon personal income tax liability.
The department recommends electronic filing to expedite the refund process. E-filed returns with direct deposit are typically processed within two weeks, whereas paper filings may experience delays.
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has implemented measures to ensure the safety of drivers in response to the recent snowstorms.
Residents may face icy road conditions, particularly at elevated areas. Julie Denny, a spokesperson for ODOT, stated that crews have been working around the clock to maintain clear and safe roads.
She urged drivers to remain vigilant regarding changing road conditions and to ensure their vehicles are equipped with appropriate tires, chains, and any necessary emergency supplies. Additionally, she highlighted the importance of driving slowly and cautiously in snowy conditions. Furthermore, Denny advised residents to exercise caution when navigating around snowplows.
ODOT suggests that drivers utilize TripCheck for real-time updates on road conditions.
A legislative proposal in Salem, designed to lower property insurance costs, is receiving input from both the insurance sector and other states that have enacted similar legislation.
Homeowners in Oregon and throughout much of the Western region are facing escalating insurance premiums and a diminishing number of insurance providers due to the threat of wildfires.
Senate Bill 1540 seeks to mitigate that risk and the related expenses. The insurance industry, along with experts from California and Colorado, represents just a portion of the stakeholders collaborating with Salem legislators on Senate Bill 1540.
The bill successfully progressed through the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Wildfire, which is chaired by local State Senator Jeff Golden, and moved to the Rules Committee on Thursday afternoon following a unanimous bipartisan vote.
A proposal to change the date for a contentious transportation tax referendum from November to May is progressing to the Oregon Senate for a vote.
Senate Bill 1599 represents a Democratic initiative aimed at rescheduling the date when Oregon voters can either approve or reject components of a 2025 transportation law to coincide with the May 19 primary.
During a heated meeting on Thursday evening, lawmakers on a joint subcommittee voted 5-3 along party lines to move the bill forward. Proponents argue that rescheduling the date would allow voters to weigh in on the measure as soon as possible, while also providing lawmakers with the necessary clarity to identify a long-term funding solution as the budget deficit of the Oregon Department of Transportation continues to expand.
Conversely, many critics have described this move as an attempt to undermine the preferences of nearly a quarter-million voters and to shield Democrats from being listed on general election ballots alongside an unpopular tax increase.
PacifiCorp, the parent company of Pacific Power, has declared its intention to divest its assets in Washington state to Portland General Electric for a sum of $1.9 billion.
The assets being sold include wind and natural gas generation facilities, as well as distribution infrastructure. In a statement, the CEO of PacifiCorp indicated that this sale will enhance the company’s financial stability and streamline operations to better align with its long-term objectives.
A bill has been approved by the Oregon Senate aimed at safeguarding the immigration and citizenship status of students within educational institutions.
Additionally, the bill mandates the Oregon Attorney General’s Office to develop model policies that outline a procedure for verifying any warrants or court orders related to immigration matters. It encourages school administrators to seek legal advice prior to taking action in response to immigration enforcement initiatives.
Furthermore, this information must be disseminated to all school districts and charter schools. The bill received bipartisan support during its passage in the Senate.
Last week Democrats on the Senate Revenue Committee reached an agreement to eliminate taxes on Oregon estates valued at $1 million, raising the threshold to $2.5 million instead.
However, in exchange, their proposal would increase taxes on estates valued at over approximately $3 million. State revenue experts indicate that these tax rate hikes would enable the state to generate roughly the same amount of estate tax revenue through at least 2029 as it would under the current tax law.
No other state imposes taxes on estates valued below $1.8 million, and the federal estate tax is applicable only to estates valued at a minimum of $15 million.
Oregon initiated taxation on estates worth $1 million or more in 2011 and has not adjusted that threshold in the 15 years since. Consequently, it has become increasingly common for estates to incur this tax, especially considering the rising home prices in the Portland and Bend regions.
A proposed initiative for the Oregon ballot aimed at modifying the state’s animal cruelty laws is attracting significant online attention as both supporters and opponents engage in discussions regarding its potential effects.
The initiative, referred to as the People for the Elimination of Animal Cruelty Exemptions (PEACE) Act, seeks to amend specific sections of Oregon law concerning animal abuse, neglect, and assault by eliminating certain exemptions that currently pertain to activities such as hunting, fishing, livestock production, and research.
Proponents assert that the proposal aims to alleviate animal suffering and modernize state law to acknowledge that animals can experience pain, stress, and fear. The initiative would redefine the terms “minimum care,” abuse, and neglect, and would restrict the circumstances under which harm to animals is legally permissible, primarily to instances of self-defense or veterinary treatment. The measure is also generating discussions on social media, where organizers report an increase in interest.
In late December on Instagram, the campaign supporting the proposal, Yes on IP28, announced that it has gathered 100,000 signatures to date. According to Oregon law, initiatives are required to collect 117,173 valid signatures by July 2 in order to qualify for the statewide ballot.
LANE COUNTY, Ore. (19 February 2026) – On Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 12:56 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 5 near milepost 167 in Lane County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a silver Honda Odyssey, operated by Leyla Ann Ayers (24) of Cottage Grove, was traveling southbound on I-5 near Cottage Grove when it left the right shoulder of the roadway for unknown reasons. The vehicle struck the roadside embankment and overturned, ejecting the driver. The vehicle came to an uncontrolled stop, partially blocking the highway.
The operator (Ayers) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. On February 17, 2026, OSP was notified by hospital staff that Ayers had died from injuries sustained during the crash.
The highway remained open during the on-scene investigation.
Alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor in the crash.
OSP was assisted by South Lane Fire and Rescue, Taylor’s Towing, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
Oregon State Parks to hire seasonal Park Rangers, Park Ranger Assistants
SALEM, Oregon— Oregon State Parks is hiring seasonal Park Rangers and Park Ranger Assistants for positions across the state for the 2026 season.
Hiring starts as soon as this month and runs through June with new positions listed on a rolling basison the website. The positions last anywhere from four to nine months. Most seasonal staff work April through September, but some start as early as this month or work as late as December.
Seasonal staff help visitors access world-class experiences and ensure clean and safe park areas for everyone to enjoy. Duties include janitorial work, landscape maintenance, visitor education and visitor services.
Salaries start at $20.28 per hour for seasonal assistants and $23.79 for seasonal rangers. Both positions include comprehensive medical, vision and dental plans for employees and qualified family members. The positions also include paid sick leave, vacation, personal leave and 11 paid holidays per year. Student workers, ages 16 and older, who are enrolled in high school start at $20.27 or more per hour, depending on experience.
Several of Oregon State Parks’ top leaders started their careers as seasonal employees, including all three Region Directors.
“We are focused on developing an engaged workforce by partnering with staff on career development, investing in skill building and fostering a culture of belonging. Whether you’re here for a season or your entire career, you make a difference in protecting and promoting Oregon’s special places,” said interim Director Stefanie Coons.
Seasonal staff gain valuable skills working with experienced Park Rangers at parks around the state. Positions are available in Oregon’s coastal areas, scenic valleys, and mountain regions, offering opportunities to work in some of the most beautiful places in the Pacific Northwest.
For more information about current openings, visithttps://bit.ly/oregonparkjobs. If you have any questions or need additional assistance in accessibility or alternative formats, please email Oregon Parks and Recreation Department RecruitingOPRD.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, committed to diversity and pay equity.
Mt. Ashland Ski Area is set to reopen on Thursday, Feb. 19th, following a temporary halt in operations last month due to significantly lower than average snowfall and snowpack.
The ski area had suspended its activities on January 15, citing a 63% decrease in seasonal snowfall and a 71% reduction in snowpack, which restricted terrain access and safe operations. However, recent storms and cooler weather have enabled crews to prepare the mountain for the return of skiers and snowboarders.
In a Facebook post, Mt. Ashland Ski Area announced that the lifts scheduled to operate upon reopening include the Sonnet, Lithia, and Comer chairlifts, as well as the First Act Learning Carpet.
Operating hours will be from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with twilight skiing available from Thursday to Saturday between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. using the same lifts. In a related development approximately 80 miles to the south, Mt. Shasta ski park revealed its reopening earlier this week. This ski area had paused operations on February 9 due to below-average snowfall and limited terrain conditions. Recent cold temperatures and a promising weather forecast have encouraged officials to resume operations.
During the Open Enrollment period of 2026, a total of 118,372 individuals in Oregon secured health coverage via the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace, which provides private health insurance options for those lacking coverage through their employer, Medicaid, or Medicare.
Approximately 60 percent of those who sought financial assistance were successful in receiving aid in 2026, a decrease from 80 percent in 2025. Although there was a decline in enrollment by about 15 percent, equating to 21,316 fewer individuals obtaining coverage through the Marketplace, the high rate of re-enrollment suggests that residents of Oregon continue to prioritize access to quality health care.
Simultaneously, the enrollment trends of 2026 reveal increasing difficulties. The cessation of enhanced federal premium tax credits led to elevated costs for numerous consumers, especially for middle-income families who no longer met the criteria for the same level of financial assistance.
Individuals earning between 200-400 percent of the Federal Poverty Level experienced premium hikes ranging from $90 to $165. Enrollment partners within the Marketplace indicated that the rise in premiums caused some individuals and families to postpone enrollment, opt for plans with greater out-of-pocket expenses, or entirely forgo coverage.
The American Red Cross is making an urgent appeal for blood donations due to a nearly 35% decline in their supply over the last month.
The organization reports that winter storms and the flu season have intensified the shortage, resulting in hospitals facing challenges in meeting patient requirements. The Red Cross is responsible for supplying 40% of the nation’s blood, and the situation is critical, with blood being required every two seconds. Although 62% of Americans are eligible to donate, only 3% are currently participating, according to the organization.
From January 26 to February 28, donors will receive a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. The Red Cross urges eligible individuals to schedule an appointment via their website to assist in replenishing the blood supply.
February is American Heart Month
February is American Heart Month, a time to focus on heart health and learn more about heart disease. Small, everyday choices like staying active, eating well, managing stress, and getting regular checkups can help keep your heart healthy. Join us in learning more about ways to protect your heart and support heart-healthy communities across Oregon.
Feb. 1-7 is Women’s Heart Week. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the U.S., but it is often preventable. The Oregon Health Plan (OHP) covers many services that can help you take care of your heart.
Here are 5 ways to protect your heart:
1. Check your blood pressure: High blood pressure often has no symptoms. OHP covers routine checkups and screenings. You may also be eligible for a blood pressure cuff to monitor your blood pressure at home.
2. Know your cholesterol numbers: OHP covers lab tests to check cholesterol and other heart health risks.
3. Quit tobacco for good: OHP offers free support, including counseling and medications.
4. Take care of your mental health: Stress, anxiety, and depression can affect your heart. OHP covers mental and behavioral health services.
5. Stay active and eat healthy foods: Talk to your provider about nutrition and physical activity. OHP may offer programs that support healthy habits in your region.
Need help getting started? Call your Coordinated Care Organization (CCO) or visitOHP.Oregon.govto learn more. If you don’t know your CCO or do not have one, call OHP Client Services at 800-273-0557.
Oregon Health Authority – Protecting Health During Cold Days
Winter’s chill: Protecting your health when temperatures drop
February can be one of the coldest and stormiest months in Oregon.
Because freezing temperatures, snow and ice, and winter storms and power outages increase the risk of injuries and health problems, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) encourages everyone to stay safe with a few simple tips.
Slipping on ice is one of the most common winter injuries. It can cause sprains, broken bones or head injuries. Very cold weather can also cause frostbite and hypothermia. These risks are higher for older adults, young children, people with ongoing health conditions and anyone without reliable heat.
- Prevent slips and falls: Wear shoes with good grip, walk carefully on icy surfaces and clear snow and ice from walkways.
- Protect against extreme cold: Wear layers, cover exposed skin and limit time outdoors during freezing temperatures. Frostbite can happen quickly in extreme cold.
- Watch for signs of hypothermia: Symptoms include strong shivering, confusion, slurred speech and extreme tiredness. Get medical help right away if you notice these signs.
Earned Income Tax Credit could mean thousands more in cash refunds for eligible Oregonians
Salem, OR—A single parent of two young children earning $24,000 in Oregon could receive over $12,000 as a cash refund if they claim the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), the federal Child Tax Credit, the Oregon Earned Income Credit (EIC), and the Oregon Kids Credit.
Low-income Oregon families overwhelmingly use cash refunds to cover the basics—housing, utilities, food, etc.
Yet, more than 20 percent of Oregonians eligible to claim the EITC, don’t. Low participation rates in these programs leave millions of dollars on the table for low-income Oregonians.
AnIRS study of 2020 federal tax returns found that Oregon ranked last in EITC participation with only slightly more than two out of three eligible taxpayers claiming the credit. Oregon’s standing has since improved, rising to 44th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia, and participation rates were up to more than 78 percent for tax year 2022.
The Oregon Department of Revenue is working with other state agencies and community partners to encourage taxpayers to learn more about this credit and find out if they’re eligible.
The department is working to increase uptake of the EITC in Oregon by both raising awareness of how refundable federal and state credits can put cash directly in the pockets of low-income Oregonians, and by offering free tax filing assistance. The state partners with community based organizations to offerfree tax filing assistance at sites across the state. The hands-on guidance encourages Oregonians to check if they are eligible for these refundable tax credits.The Earned Income Tax Credit is a fully refundable federal tax credit for people making up to $68,675 in 2025. A refundable credit not only reduces the amount of tax a taxpayer owes, any leftover credit results in a cash refund that can be deposited directly into their bank account. Families may be eligible for a maximum refundable credit of $8,046 on their federal tax return, and a maximum Oregon Earned Income Creditof $966 on their state tax return. Certain taxpayers without children may also be eligible for these credits.
Individuals may qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Oregon EIC, and other credits, even if they are not required to file a tax return. To receive the refundable credits, however, they must file a federal and state tax return.
Basic qualifications for EITC include:
- You, your spouse, or any qualifying child must have a Social Security number to claim the federal credit.
- Your earned income in 2025 must be below certain limits based on your number of qualifying dependents.
- You may be eligible even if you do not have a qualifying child.
- Taxpayers can use the IRS EITC Assistant to check their eligibility further. The assistant is available in English and Spanish.
State tax credits for families
In addition to federal refundable credits, Oregon has multiple state tax credits that low-income families can claim – the Oregon Earned Income Credit (EIC), and the Oregon Kids’ Credit. Both of these credits are also available to taxpayers who use an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) to file their taxes or have a qualifying child with an ITIN. Taxpayers with an ITIN, claim the Oregon EIC using schedule OR-EIC-ITIN. The EIC otherwise has the same basic qualifications as the federal EITC listed above.
The Oregon Kids Credit is a refundable credit for low-income people with young dependent children. For those with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of $26,550 or less, the full credit is $1,050 per child for up to five dependent children under the age of six at the end of the tax year. A partial credit is available for individuals and families with an MAGI up to $31,550.
The department recommends that Oregonians wishing to claim the Oregon Kids Credit use Direct File Oregon, the interview-based tax preparation software that allows taxpayers to file directly with the state for free. There was an earlier error in the forms for claiming the Oregon Kids Credit which has been updated and fixed in Direct File Oregon.
Taxpayers who plan to claim the Oregon Kids Credit, and file their taxes using another tax filing software can check the Department’s webpage to see if the software has been updated with the correct forms and instructions. The department has been in communication with its tax preparation software partners to ensure the fix is quickly applied to their forms.
For more information about the federal EITC, the Oregon EIC, the Oregon Kids Credit and other similar credits, go to the Tax benefits for families page.Taxpayers can visit the Oregon Department of Revenue website to find free tax preparation sitesby using the interactive map. For more information on the EITC, visit https://www.eitc.irs.gov/. For questions about Oregon taxes, call the Department of Revenue at 503-378-4988, or email questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov.
The Oregon Heritage Commission is providing grants to museums for projects related to collections, heritage tourism, and education. The awards generally vary from $2,000 to $10,000.
Museums are eligible to apply for a range of initiatives, such as cataloging and conservation of collections, marketing efforts for heritage tourism, and educational exhibits. Additionally, they may collaborate with other organizations on projects that align with their mission. Museums serve as custodians of local, regional, and state history, and this program facilitates the collection, preservation, and promotion of that history throughout the state.
A complimentary online workshop on the grant application process will take place on February 24 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Registration is mandatory. The commission, which is appointed by the Governor, consists of nine members who represent the diverse heritage of Oregon. Its objective is to enhance Oregon’s heritage through coordination, advocacy, and educational initiatives.
BLM launches public comment on western Oregon timber plan to advance Trump administration priorities
WASHINGTON — The Bureau of Land Management is inviting public input for proposed updates to resources management across 2.5 million acres of highly productive timberlands in western Oregon, an effort that underscores the Trump administration’s commitment to expanding domestic timber production and reducing reliance on foreign imports.
“Bringing timber production back to historic levels is essential for reviving local economies and reducing the threat of catastrophic wildfires,” said Acting BLM Director Bill Groffy. “President Trump has made it clear — enhanced domestic timber production is vital for our national security, economic prosperity, and effective wildfire management.”
A notice will publish in tomorrow’s Federal Register to open the comment period, which closes on March 23. Additional information is available at the BLM National NEPA Register, where comments may be submitted through the “Participate Now” option. Written comments may also be emailed to BLM_OR_Revision_Scoping@
The BLM remains committed to supplying a secure, resilient domestic timber supply. In western Oregon, this commitment is rooted in the Oregon and California Revested Lands Sustained Yield Management Act of 1937, which ensures sustainable forestry practices that support communities and livelihoods.
Revenue from timber harvested on these lands is shared between the U.S. Treasury and 18 western Oregon counties—funding essential local services such as schools, libraries, public safety, and infrastructure projects. Each year, BLM timber sales support approximately 2,000 local jobs and generate more than $1 billion for local economies.
Pacific Power Shares Winter Heating Tips to Help Customers Stay Warm and Save Money
As cold temperatures linger across the region, Pacific Power is reminding customers of a few simple adjustments they can make at home that can help them stay warm while also reducing their energy bill.
“With households using more electricity to stay comfortable during winter months, adopting energy-efficient heating practices benefits everyone,” said Ryan Flynn, president of Pacific Power. “Even small changes support the grid and can lead to significant savings on your monthly bill.”
To help customers get started, Pacific Power recommends taking these practical steps to help keep their energy costs in check this winter.
Tips for staying warm and energy-efficient:
- 68° degrees is great – Setting the thermostat at 68°F when you’re home and awake is recommended.
- Keep warm air in – Close window coverings at night to reduce drafts, and seal air leaks with caulking and weatherstripping around doors and windows.
- Clean and tune – Clean or replace furnace filters monthly during the heating season. Routine maintenance helps improve airflow and ensures your system isn’t working harder than necessary.
- Use space heaters sparingly – and safely – Portable heaters require a lot of electricity and should be used only as needed. Running a typical 1,500-watt unit for eight hours a day over a month can add about $30 to a winter bill.
- Use appliances during off-peak hours– Using appliances like ovens, dishwashers and laundry machines during off-peak hours helps reduce strain on the grid and can help customers manage their bill – an approach Pacific Power also highlights during extreme weather.
Pacific Power offers a range of energy assistance programs, including income-qualified discounts, weatherization support and resources for customers managing high bills. For more information, visit PacificPower.net/Assistance or call 888-221-7070.
For more tips on how to save energy year-round, visit our Savings & Energy Choices webpage atPacificPower.net/WinterTips.
Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band will launch their Land Of Hope And Dreams American Tour across the country this spring, kicking off at Minneapolis’ Target Center on March 31. The 20-date run will feature 19 arena shows, and a final night outdoors on May 27 at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.
The tour will make a Portland stop at Moda Center on Friday, April 3, 2026. Tickets go on sale Saturday, Feb. 21 at 12 p.m. PT.
Springsteen offered the following comments about the goals of the tour: “We are living through dark, disturbing and dangerous times, but do not despair — the cavalry is coming! Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band will be taking the stage this spring from Minneapolis to California to Texas to Washington, D.C. for the Land of Hope And Dreams American Tour. We will be rocking your town in celebration and in defense of America — American democracy, American freedom, our American Constitution and our sacred American dream — all of which are under attack by our wannabe king and his rogue government in Washington, D.C. Everyone, regardless of where you stand or what you believe in, is welcome — so come on out and join the United Free Republic of E Street Nation for an American spring of Rock ‘n’ Rebellion! I’ll see you there!” — Bruce Springsteen
In the spring of 2025, Springsteen and The E Street Band brought their Land Of Hope And Dreams Tour to more than 700,000 fans across Europe and released the “Land Of Hope And Dreams” EP from opening night in Manchester, England. Their return to the United States will mark Springsteen and The E Street Band’s first shows in North America since 2024.
For ticketing information, please visit BruceSpringsteen.net/Tour and follow Springsteen on Instagram, Facebook and Bluesky for tour updates.
The E Street Band’s members are Roy Bittan (piano, synthesizer), Nils Lofgren (guitar, vocals), Patti Scialfa (guitar, vocals), Garry Tallent (bass guitar), Stevie Van Zandt (guitar, vocals) and Max Weinberg (drums); with Soozie Tyrell (violin, guitar, vocals), Jake Clemons (saxophone) and Charlie Giordano (organ, keyboards, accordion). They will be joined by The E Street Horns (Barry Danielian, Eddie Manion, Ozzie Melendez, Curt Ramm), The E Street Choir (Lisa Lowell, Michelle Moore, Ada Dyer, Curtis King) and Anthony Almonte (percussion, vocals).
UNDER PRESSURE: A VOLCANIC EXPLORATION, AN EXHIBITION FROM OREGON’S HIGH DESERT MUSEUM, SHEDS NEW LIGHT ON THE RUMBLING GIANTS AMONG US
(BEND, Ore.) — For millions of years, volcanoes have been the most powerful force in nature. And for many in the West, the impact of volcanoes is forever tied to the May 18, 1980, eruption of Washington’s Mount Saint Helens. The science, spectacle, and significance behind these massive peaks will soon be at the center of an immersive new exhibition, “Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration,” which will run from Feb. 7, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027, at the 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Service recipient High Desert Museum in Bend, Ore.
On the heels of the Museum’s recent “Sensing Sasquatch” exhibition – which won the Western History Association’s prestigious 2025 Autry Public History Prize and earned national praise for exploring the Indigenous perspectives of what many call Bigfoot – comes the latest groundbreaking exhibition from the High Desert Museum. Under Pressure will take visitors on an educational, insightful, and thought-provoking journey into the forces that make volcanoes among the most majestic and often misunderstood natural wonders of the world, while exploring their individual stories and temperaments.
“From cultural and historical significance to the 1980 eruption of Mount Saint Helens, the Pacific Northwest and High Desert have a particularly long, complex, and symbiotic relationship with volcanoes,” says Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D., High Desert Museum executive director. “We live in their shadows, recreate on their slopes, and admire their beauty, but it’s the volcanoes’ ability to simultaneously cause destruction and creation that evokes feelings of awe. Under Pressure will provide an immersive and deep exploration.”
Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration, a groundbreaking new exhibition from Oregon’s High Desert Museum.
WHEN: Feb. 7, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027
WHERE: High Desert Museum (Spirit of the West Gallery)
59800 US-97, Bend, OR 97702 (map HERE)
COST: Free with Museum admission or membership
Active U.S. military and their families, as well as Tribal members, are FREE with ID
Among the highlights that visitors to Under Pressure can expect to encounter include:
- Engage the senses through interactive displays and exhibits, including volcanic rocks and a volcanic hazard map, to learn about cutting-edge volcano research.
- Hear stories and learn the significance of volcanoes to the people of the High Desert region.
- Get to know 4-6 individual volcanoes through biographies that explain the similarities and differences between them.
- Learn about present-day volcano hazards and how lava flows.
- Understand the technologies that scientists use to detect volcanic activity, which allow us to live among volcanoes while also enjoying their many benefits.
“These geologic giants exist all around us, come in all shapes and sizes, and tell a story of our past, present, and future,” says Whitelaw. “With 350 million people living near an active volcano worldwide, the more we understand about volcanoes, the better we can exist alongside them.”
Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration opens to the public on Feb. 7, 2026, and runs through Jan. 3, 2027, in the High Desert Museum’s Spirit of the West Gallery. For additional information on exhibitions or to start planning your experience, visit highdesertmuseum.org.
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