Public works managing arsenic levels in water

In meeting requirements set by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, the city of Klamath Falls may be able to avoid installing costly wastewater treatment technology and instead mitigate arsenic levels at their source. Officials have until July to come up with a plan to reduce arsenic in treated wastewater. The DEQ set new arsenic standards last August, and city public works started testing last fall.

Citizens for Public Safety offers survey

The Citizens for Public Safety group wants you to weigh in on the work that's been done so far in planning for long term funding solutions for public safety in Klamath County. They've put together a quick survey at http://klamath.org/publicsafety. The survey results will be used when drafting final recommendations that will be presented to policymakers in the spring.

Chamber leadership event set for May

A one-day leadership event is happening with the Klamath County Chamber of Commerce May 6th. Five leadership areas will be covered: Service, innovation, hope, purpose, and influence. It will take place at the OIT College Union Auditorium, and will feature Robin Roberts of ABC's Good Morning America and others. You can find out more at http://klamath.org

Scholarships available to those interested in construction

The Klamath Basin Home Builders Association Scholarship Committee has two $750 scholarships they're offering to students interested in a construction related field. Students interested can apply on the home builder's association website which we'll post for you on our website. They'll also have info available at the Home and Garden show March 11-13.

http://kbhba.org

Chamber issues safety alert

Businesses are asked to keep an eye out for two individuals who are casing the area. The Klamath County Chamber of Commerce says it could be a safety issue. Friday morning the individuals were reported at The Ledge. They are described as a white male and a white female, both 5'6" or shorter. The man has a beard and a lip piercing. Both were wearing hoodies.

Applebees fundraiser tomorrow to benefit the museum

If you eat at Applebees on March 1st, 15% of your meal ticket will benefit the Children's Museum of Klamath Falls. This will actually happen the first Tuesday of every month. It's a Meet me at Applebee's fundraiser and all you have to do to help the museum is show up and eat. They'll take care of the rest.

County offices shortening hours

If you have business with the Klamath County Tax Collector, Clerk, or Assessor, you'll have less time to do it. Beginning this week, those offices are cutting back their hours to compensate for budget cuts. Starting tomorrow, those departments will be open from 9 to 4 Monday through Friday. They had been open 8 to 5. 9 to 4 is the minimum a county office can be open, according to state law.

Cogley remains in custody

26-year old Jonathan Michael Cogley is still in custody at the Klamath County jail on an override. That allows sheriff's deputies to keep him in custody even though his charges don't meet the lodging criteria. He's the man who allegedly confronted a boy with a machete and was the subject of a manhunt that locked down a nearby elementary school this week.

Commissioners to open up next week

Klamath County Commissioners will meet next week to address issues connected to the treasurer position. Treasurer Mike Long is on paid leave while the state and county investigate. Commissioner Al Switzer said the commissioners would publicly discuss actions regarding the positions of tax collector, budget officer, and finance director at that point...all titles held by Long. The meeting will be at 11am Wednesday at the Klamath County Government Center.

Family tree workshops coming up

Wanna know more about your family history? Two free geneology workshops are coming up at the Klamath County Library, presented by the Klamath Basin Genealogy Society. The first happens Friday march 4th and it does't require pre-registration. The next is March 19th and you've got to pre-register. Both workshops will address ancestry and using military records to further research.

Verizon collecting used phones

If you're making a trip tomorrow to watch the Oregon State Beavers take on the Cal Bears, Verizon Wireless is taking used phones and accessories. The donations will benefit victims of domestic violence through the Verison Wireless Hopeline program.

Winter driving conditions causing problems

There have been reports of several jack-knifed 18 wheelers on I-5 in the past 24 hours. Travelers should expect delays and winter driving conditions. You can always go to tripcheck.com for the latest road conditions before you head out.

Bee Gees show at the Museum March 4th

In an effort to boost much needed funds, The Klamath County Museum will offer another Bee Gees show March 4th. The first one February 12th sold out quickly so a second show was added. Proceeds benefit the Museum.

Museum offering antiques

The Klamath County Museum is putting together a one-day antique sale March 5th. It will be at the back of the museum from 9 to 2 that day. It will feature items that have been donated to the museum over the past few years, but have not been accepted into the museum's permanent collection. Nothing from the permanent collection will be for sale. Funds from the sale will allow the museum to seek knew acqusitions.

Ice covered road injures couple

A California couple was seriously injured Wednesday evening in a single vehicle wreck on Highway 97 near mile post 101. The driver lost control when the road was ice-covered, according to state troopers. The male driver sustained serious injuries and his wife was treated for minor injuries.

Arrest made after schools locked down

26-year old Jonathan Cogley has been arrested after allegedly threatening his neighbor while holding a machete and wearing a bandana over his face. According to Klamath County Sheriff Tim Evinger, he was also possible armed with a gun. This incident had two school on lockdown yesterday. Parents had to pick up their kids at both Shasta Elementary School and Falcon Heights Academy.

Switzer closes committee

Klamath County Commissioner Al Switzer officially closed his re-election committee last week, and removed Klamath County Treasurer Mike Long as the committee's treasurer. According to the Herald and News, Long's attorney has barred Switzer and Long from communicating because Long is being investigated by the Oregon Attorney General's Office and the county's human resources department.

Arrest in pepper spray case

After an investiation, a Klamath Falls man was arrested this week for allegedly pepper spraying several people, seven months ago. Lt. Monty Holloway with the Klamath County Sheriff's Office said Kirk's charge stems from an incident in July when he reportedly got into a verbal argument with some acquaintances in Chiloquin that turned into a physical altercation. It ended with Kirk spraying pepper spray at several people before fleeing, he said. He's been charged with second-degree use of a stun gun, tear gas, or mace.

Home builders show set for March

The Klamath Basin Home Builders Association is gearing up for their 36th annual Home and Garden Show March 11 through 13 at the Klamath County Fairgrounds Event Center. They're taking exhibitor applications now. The Home Builders Association is expecting 40 thousand visitors over those three days. Vendor applications are available on their website. We'll post the link.

www.kbhba.org

Want to see how your doctor ranks?

The Partner for Quality Care Initiative is a group of Oregon doctors, insurers, employers, and consumers working together to provide information about the performance of health care professionals. The group provides scores for individual doctors and medical groups, and they have just released their second report at http://partnerforqualitycare.org

Detox center in the works

When budget cuts forced the county jail to cut capacity, police started taking those who are at-risk and intoxicated, to the Sky Lakes Medical Center. A better solution might be a a proposed 12-bed detoxification center in Klamath Falls, that could take pressure off the hospital and law enforcement. First, supporters need $1.7 million to purchase a building. Plans now are to raise the money through grants.

Graffiti arrest at KCC

After an investigation by the Klamath County Sheriff's Department, 20-year-old Derek Brett Gallagher was arrested in the Klamath Community College graffiti incident. There was graffiti on buildings and tables that possibly referenced an attack on the school. It said "Zero Day," which according to investigators could have two possible references: to a computer virus attack or to a 2003 movie where two young men plan and carry out a shooting at their school before committing suicide. The school has suspended him. His bail at the Klamath County Jail was set at $16,000.

Local man's brother dies in Afghanistan

A marine killed last weekend in Afghanistan had ties to Klamath Falls. Marine Sgt. Matthew DeYoung died when he stepped on an improvised explosive device. His brother, 19-year old Bryce DeYoung lives in Klamath Falls.

Routine traffic stop leads to drug seizure

Two Portland area residents were arrested Sunday when a traffic stop by the Oregon State Patrol turned up nearly 4 pounds of marijuana in their vehicle. They were pulled over for an equipment lighting violation on Interstate 5 about four miles south of Myrtle Creek. Estimate value of the drugs seized is about $10,000. 20-year old Crystal Hanson and 18-year old Cristian Campos were arrested.

Oregon's Kicker law scrutinized

The kicker law is unique to Oregon, but there is talk that it may not continue. Oregon lawmakers are considering a proposal that would ask voters to give up some of the money they occasionally get when state tax collections come in higher than projected. The kicker provision has dished out refunds of more than $3 billion for individuals and businesses over 30 years.

Job Expo next week

If you're looking for work, you'll have some help next week. WorkSource Klamath, in cooperation with other regional employment organizations, is holding its annual Southern Oregon Career and Job Expo March 2 in Klamath Falls. The expo will include booths set up by local schools and employers, and offer networking opportunities between those looking for work and organizations that are hiring. It will be at the Klamath County Fairgrounds.

Prescribed burns this week

If you see smoke this week, it's probably a prescribed burn. Fire managers for the Fremont-Winema National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management’s Lakeview District are starting several controlled projects.

Break reported in theft cases

Do you recall the story of a Klamath Falls man who stole a television from a local hotel a month ago? The alleged theft was traced by his footprints in the snow. He's back in the Klamath County Jail for allegedly burglarizing three homes last week. Authorities said they are still investigating and more charges could be filed against 33-year old Richard Dean Carpenter. He is accused of stealing at least $10,000 worth of property during the spree, including two laptops from one house.

Snowboarder's body found at Mr. Shasta

The body of a missing snowboarder was recovered Sunday morning near Mount Shasta Ski Park after more than three days of searching. Search and rescue crews from several areas including Klamath Falls, participated in the search. 23-year old Alexander Gautreaux's body was found about 9am Sunday after he had been missing since Thursday. He had been buried upside down in a snow drift.

Fatal accident on Highway 97 claims life of Salem man

A Salem-area man died Sunday from injuries he received in a Saturday afternoon accident on Highway 97 near Sunriver. Herbert Kroschell the Third was taken by ambulance to a hospital in Bend where he died Sunday. It was a three vehicle accident with eight others injured. All of the other injuries were non-life threatening.

Deputies graduating this Friday

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training will graduate the newest Basic Corrections class on Friday, March 4 in Salem. It's a five-week class that includes criminal law, survival skills, firearms, transport and security, inmate rights, ethics, cultural diversity, and problem solving. Deputies Vincent Getty and Daryl Harmon from Lake County are among those graduating.

Backpack with stolen goods recovered

A group out picking up trash to get community service hours made an interesting discovery: a backpack containing a laptop and iPod. It turns out, as a work crew supervisor was calling around to schools, he learned backpack was taken from a Klamath Union High School student when his car was burglarized. He'll get it back.

Oregon 42 threatened by slides

ODOT crews are evaluating Oregon 42, the Coos-Bay Roseburg Highway, after they had to shut it down yesterday because of instability. There was an unstable slope of mud, trees, and rock, that has been giving way and falling onto the roadway. They monitored the slide all weekend before closing it late yesterday. There may be periods of open and closed lanes, so it's best to find an alternate route.

DA says multiple violations leads to jail sentence

22-year old Stephen Ray Sorenson of Klamath Falls has been sentenced to 14 months in prison for violating his probation. The initial charge was unlawful use of a weapon. According to District Attorney Ed Caleb, he violated his probation numerous times by menacing his father with an axe, threatening to cut his stepfather's head off, and consuming alcohol.

Meeting set to take ideas on pollution

A newly formed committee of Klamath Falls area residents is doing what they can to fight air pollution. Klamath Falls area is in violation of federal standards for fine particulate matter. This is usually associated with smoke produced by woodstoves, backyard burning and other activities. The committee will host their first public meeting at 9 a.m., March 9, in room 219 at the Klamath County Government Center.

Public meetings on TV may go away

OIT is dropping their broadcasts of public meetings on public access channels. That's according to city and county officials. OIT staff members say they haven't cut the program, but they are reviewing whether or not they can still make it happen.

Gov Kitzhaber has productive meeting with Pres Obama

With President Obama in Oregon last Friday, Governor John Kitzhaber had the opportunity to speak with him about job creation. Kitzhaber wants federal support of the Columbia River Crossing, and continued federal payments for Oregon and California Lands counties. Both of these items are in the President's budget. Kitzhaber also wants support for health reform waivers for Oregon, and says there are signals of support from the federal government.

House fire caused by playing with lighter

We've heard it hundreds of times...don't let your kids play with matches and lighters. It appears a 5-year-old boy playing with a lighter started a fire Thursday in the bedroom of his grandmother's house. The blaze happened in the 2400 block of Western Street near Klamath Community College, according to a press release. Homeowner Lane Bruner escaped the house with her grandson, another grandchild and a family pet. Two other pets, a dog and a cat, died from smoke inhalation.

Names released from fatal accident

All three victims who died in a fatal car crash on Highway 97 north of Weed Tuesday night were from Klamath Falls. Two other victims are still receiving medical treatment. 24-year old Edgar Huciel Leal, 24-year old Banessa Rodriguez, and 3-year old Donovan Hernandez were declared dead at the scene. A three-year-old female child is being treated at UC-Davis Medical Center in Sacramento and is doing well. The 22-year-old male driver is in critical condition at Mercy Medical in Redding.

Slick roads still a problem

Travel safely again this morning as you may encounter some slick spots. Snow is still on Highway 140 from Lake of the Woods all the way to Lakeview, and on Highway 97 from Klamath Falls up to Chemult. Ten motor vehicle crashes were reported on the highways during the first half of the day yesterday.

California fair forges ahead

As California deals with the threat of budget cuts for local fairs, the Tulelake Butte Valley fair has released the news that they're chosen a theme for their event. It's "Big Dreams in a Small town" and the fair has been scheduled for September 8th through 11th. Traditional events will be part of the fair, plus a few new ones. Look for the Klamath Basin's best flying dogs, the Dock Dogs. They'll be back.

Car break-ins common right now

Car breakins and thefts have been all too common lately, and Klamath Falls police remind us all to keep vehicles locked and valuables out of site. A group of adolescents and adults allegedly broke into 22 vehicles about a week ago. In that same time period there were eight reports of stolen vehicles, according to online crime mapping data.

Monteith jailed for theft

39-year old Paul Louis Monteith of Klamath Falls was sentenced this week to 13 months in prison for theft in the first degree. According to Klamath County DA Ed Caleb, Monteith's crime consisted of stealing more than $1000 in merchandise from Walmart in October of last year. Caleb also says Monteith has prior convictions that include possession of Meth, failure to appear, and forgery.

Citizens for Public Safety starts ballot initiative

Klamath County Citizens United for Public Safety, a political action committee, this week filed an official public safety tax levy proposal it hopes County Commissioners will put on the May 17 ballot.
The proposed five-year levy would annually tax county residents $69 per $100,000 assessed property value. The money would go toward the county jail, sheriff's patrol, district attorney's office, juvenile office, and emergency medical services.

Kids can check out a fire truck on the 25th

If you have a child with dreams of becoming a firefighter someday, they'll have the chance to see fire truck up close. It's part of fire safety time at the Klamath Library. Story time begins at 10:15 next Friday the 25th, and fire fighters will be on hand to show off the truck.

Klamath Falls man cited for connection to cock fighting

A cock fighting ring near Corning was broken up by police Sunday, who suprised about 50 hispanic men at a barn where the fights were taking place. Fifteen men were caught and 11 of those cited for misdemeanor spectating at an illegal animal fight. 43-year old Arturo Cortes-Cruz of Klamath Falls was among those cited. Felony charges are pending for the organizers. Cock fighting is legal in Mexico, illegal in all 50 states.

Clear the walks after a snowstorm, or face fines

Now that there is more snow to deal with, the city of Klamath Falls reminds us to keep property clear. Sidewalks near homes and businesses should be cleared by 8am each day. If the city has to do it, they'll charge the adjacent property owner for the cost plus and administration fee. It's "obstructing the public way" to push it onto the street or into parking areas. Than can result in a $500 fine.

Researchers to address salmon history

Two researchers from Portland State will be in Klamath Falls tomorrow to talk about salmon and the Upper Klamath Basin. The program begins at 7pm Friday at the Klamath County Museum at 1451 Main Street. Admission is free. Mark Clark, chairman of the Klamath County Museum Foundation says this is a topic with natural resource management implications.

Food banks are getting healthier

Food banks are stocking up on healthy foods. The Oregon Food Bank Network has received its first-ever grant specifically for stocking more fresh produce and other healthy foods.






That's Janeen Wadsworth, chief operating officer. 27 percent of reporting households said at least one member had diabetes. Food banks are doing what they can to combat that.

Biomass money for the taking

Up to $200,000 in biomass grant money is up for grabs in Oregon as part of Gov. John Kitzhaber's plan to create new forest jobs. The grant money will be given to as many as six forest products companies in the state, with the goal of conducting feasibility studies to see if more biomass plants can be built in Oregon.

Klamath Falls to file petition against DEQ orders

The city of Klamath Falls is filing a petition with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, asking the agency to reconsider pollution reduction orders the city says are implausibly low. This could lead to litigation as the city fights against spending millions of dollars on technology that would clean treated wastewater to the levels required by the order.

Mental Health Department may have to move

Klamath County mental health may have to relocate after Sunday's fire. County officials say there is only a 50% chance the building can be repaired, due to the damage caused to wooden trusses in the attic, which support the roof. The suspect, Michael Wynn was released from the nearby county jail an hour prior to the blaze. Tentative charges include arson and criminal trespassing. Wynn is being held pending a mental evaluation.

Kickoff today for Oregon Wants to Work

A coalition of labor groups promises a new way to connect Oregon's unemployed workers with advice and resources beginning today. Oregon Wants to Work kicks off today.






That's Harold Treinan, a financial analyst and senior accountant who has been without work since March 2009. The group focuses on practical ways to manage limited income and hunt for jobs, plus advocate for job creation legislation.

Merkley's response to federal budget

Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley released a statement yesterday responding to President Obama's proposed budget. Merkley applauded the choice to increase funding for Secure Rural Schools. he says many timber dependent counties face double-digit unemployment and the federal government should continue to support timber communities. Merkley is concerned about targeted programs that Oregon families rely on, like the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and Community Development Block Grants.

Man held on robbery charges

38-year old Raymond Leonard Taylor is in the Klamath County Jail after being accused of robbing two lounges in Klamath Falls last week. He was arrested late last week in Dorris. Taylor is charged with two counts of first-degree robbery. He is being held in lieu of $250,000 bail.

Federal budget includes timber payments

President Barack Obama released his budget yesterday.






It includes a five-year reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act, which has provided nearly $50 million to Klamath County since 2008. If the budget is passed, the funding would continue payments to nearly 400 counties, like Klamath, throughout the country that have suffered from declining timber revenues since industry profits declined in the late-1980s.

eBooks have come to Klamath libraries

You can get library books on your smart phone now. Across Oregon, iPhone and Android Smartphone users can borrow and read free eBooks. It's through the app Library2Go. A total of 88 public libraries throughout Oregon currently participate, including the Klamath County Library District.

Demand for domestic violence services on the rise

93 percent of domestic violence victim services in Oregon are seeing an increase in requests for shelter and advocacy. That's in the past year.






That's Kerry Naughton, crime survivors' program director with Partnership for Safety and Justice. 57 percent of programs in Oregon are operating now on smaller budgets and fear the possibility of further cuts.

Chamber training approaching

The Klamath Experience is coming back. It's a personnel training program offered free to Klamath County businesses through the Klamath County Chamber of Commerce. They'll bring the program to your office, or you can participate at the Chamber offices February 23rd. You can find out more at http://klamath.org.

Events that led to Wynn's arrest

A bit more now on the man accused of setting fire to the mental health building over the weekend. Klamath Falls officers responded to disturbances after someone was reported yelling and screaming at 10th and Washington, and then in the 1400 block of Oregon Avenue. Officers arrested Michael Scott Wynn and booked him into the Klamath County jail on charges of Disorderly Conduct and Trespassing. When he was released from jail an hour or so later, he's suspected of damaging some ceiling tiles and a security keypad at the community Corrections building next to the jail. Forty five minutes later, there was a small fire outside the Juvenile Department in a trash can. As that report was being taken, a fire was spotted in the Klamath County Mental Health Building across the street. This structure suffered major damage. After a mental health evaluation, Wynn is being charged with arson, trespessing, and criminal mischief.

Bank foreclosure leads to evictions

There are 13 month-to-month tenants at River's Inn Motel, and all of them will have to move by the second week of May. Sterling Savings Bank in Spokane acquired the property via forclosure and has issued eviction notices. Some have already left, and others are still looking for a place to go.

Man in custody for setting fires

The Klamath County Mental Health building has been burned, possibly beyond repair. Klamath Falls police have 57-year old Michael Scott Wynn undergoing a mental evalutaion now. He's suspected of starting that fire and a smaller blaze at the Klamath County Juvenile Department and damaging the Klamath County Corrections Department within an hour of being released from the nearby Klamath County Jail.

Oregonian delivery temporarily stopped

No newspaper? Delivery of The Oregonian has temporarily stopped in Klamath Falls as the company looks for a new regional distributor. Oregonian circulation director Kevin Denny said the stoppage in service was caused by the abrupt resignation of the Klamath Falls-area distributor. The current regional subscription manager says it wasn't a resignation, and the company decided it wanted a new distributor in the area. Either way, delivery of the paper has stopped until a new one is in place.

New building purchased for the city

City Manager Rick Whitlock says the city is buying the building at 222 South 6th Street for the new Finance Department Headquarters. They'll spend $334,000 for the property, and another $200,000 on rennovations. Whitlock says the building needs an elevator, stairs, and a bottom floor restroom.
The Finance Department will move out of 500 Main St. and into its new space in April.

Improvement noticed in local economy

The local economy is improving, if ever so slowly. The number of unemployment insurance claims has dropped slightly in Klamath County compared with the past few years, paving the way for some modest job growth. But the lack of new building projects keeps progress slow. New building permits in Klamath County are down from last year, and a backlog of foreclosures on the housing market is likely to continue into 2012.

Glimpse at history at the Klamath County Museum

Ever wondered what life was like here 150 years ago? The Klamath County Museum has the 1860s Days presentation coming up Saturday the 19th at the Museum, 1451 Main Street. Members of the Cascade Civil War Society will show how the army operated with demonstrations of camping, shooting, and marching. The program is free, and it's from 10 to 2.

Children must be immunized by February 15th

School exclusion day happens next Wednesday. According to the Klamath County Health Department, children will not be able to attend school or child care that day if their files show missing immunization records. The Klamath County Health Department sent letters to parents in January, warning that February 15th was the deadline to have current immunizations. Your health care provider can immunize, or you can make an appointment with the Klamath County Health Department.

Museum hosts presentation on salmon and the Upper Klamath Basin

Two researchers from Portland State will be in Klamath Falls next week to talk about salmon and the Upper Klamath Basin. The program begins at 7pm Friday the 18th at the Klamath County Museum at 1451 Main Street. Admission is free. Mark Clark, chairman of the Klamath County Museum Foundation says this is a topic with natural resource management implications.

Jobless claims down

The government says the number of people filing for first-time unemployment benefits last week fell to the lowest level in two and a half years.






That's anaylst Connell McShane. Perhaps another sign that the economy is turning a corner. Oregon's most recent unemployment rate sits at 10.4%.

New Moon at the Library

The Klamath Falls public library will show New Moon this Saturday, the movie based on a book in the Twilight series by Stephanie Meyer. It's free, at 1:30 Saturday at the main library downtown. It's part of a series of feature films shown at the library every second Saturday of the month.

Gems adding to staff

The Klamath Falls Gems have added to their staff. Klamath Falls native, Mike D'Olivo joins the Gems this summer as the team's Marketing and Promotions intern. He's a junior now at the University of Oregon, and a graduate of Henley High School in Klamath Falls. He'll put together each game's script, update the team's promotional information, and assist in ticket and advertising sales. His position starts in June.

Brindle sentenced

This week 48-year old Deanna Brindle was sentenced to a maximum of 20 years in the Oregon State hospital for killin a man in July 2009 and burying him in a garbage pit on her property. Klamath County District Attorney Ed Caleb said reports on Brindle's actions while in custody following her arrest for Robert Kincaid's murder show that she suffers from a mental disease or defect, and that was the only acceptable outcome.

What to do about bridge repair

Klamath County Public Works says as bridges in the county - all 200 of them - continue to age, the time will come when they need to be rennovated. Replacing them would cost about $150 million. The county has set aside $45 million for bridge repair and replacement now. But some of that money may actually go to sheriff's patrols, if lawmakers approve a measure that would allow road funds to help with budget shortfalls at the Sheriff's office.

Budget shortfall means layoffs are looming

Like many counties, Klamath County faces a budget shortfall this fiscal year. Projections say it's between $1.7 million and $2.3 million. The county's budget committee voted unanimously yesterday to cut funding by 5 percent this fiscal year to all departments that receive money from the county's general fund. That cut will save nearly $670,000, and likely will result in layoffs this year.

Blood shortage across the US

The winter weather has been rough on blood drives, with over 750 drives cancelled nationwide because of icy roads and snow recently. That has supplies dangerously low. The Pacific Northwest Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross serves about 80 hospitals, and needs about 5000 units of blood each week to keep up. If you can donate, now is the time.

Oregon lawmakers asked to focus on childcare

At a rally yesterday, Oregon state lawmakers were asked to maintain and even increase funding for Oregon's Employment Related Day Care program that helps low-income families pay for child care so they can work. Regan Gray, plicy director of Children First for Oregon.






Gray says for minimum wage workers, child care costs can total more than what a parent can bring home. Governor Kitzhaber wants to make the program part of a package of early childhood programs.

Universal flu vaccine possible

The state department of health has noticed an increase in flu cases in recent weeks, and urges us all to get that flu shot if we have not already. Some good news, researchers may have found a universal flu vaccine that would cover all strains of flu, and one shot every year would not be necessary. Oxford researchers Sarah Gilbert.






The vaccine is still in the trial stage, but Gilbert says the results have been positive so far.

Truck driver killed on Highway 58

A commercial truck driver died Tuesday night in an accident on Highway 58 near Crescent Lake. A medical problem prior to the crash may have been a factor, according to the Oregon State Patrol. State Troopers from the Klamath Falls office were among those who responded, and the driver was unresponsive when they got to the scene. They're continuing to investigate.

Possible security breach at the DOC

The Oregon Department of Correction has announced a possible security breach. On January 27th, a thumb drive that allegedly contained personally identifiable information about DOC employees got into the hands of a member of the public. The thumb drive contained social security numbers and payroll information for about 500 employees, and they have been supplied with identity protection services. The investigation into how it happened, continues.

Purple Parrot robbery suspect in custody

Authorities have a man in custody after the Purple Parrot was robbed at knifepoint early Saturday morning. Lt. Monty Holloway with the Klamath County Sheriff's Office said Ralph M. Wright, 40, of Klamath Falls has not been charged, but is a person of interest in the investigation. Investigators have yet to identify a second suspect in the armed robbery.

New tools for Sky Lakes Med Center

Sky Lakes Medical center has some new tools to help us manage what we spend on healthcare. The medical center's Financial Services Department has a new online service that has the option of making payments on hospital bills at http://skylakes.org. Sky Lakes says its fully encrypted and has the latest security measures in place.

Reclamation announces flow changes

The Bureau of Reclamation has announced increased flows on the Klamath River from teh Iron Gate Dam near Holbrook, California, effective today. The releases will focus a high pulse of water needed to benefit coho salmon, followed by a reduction in flows that will allow Upper Klamath Lake to remain on track to fill. Jason Phillips is area manager of the Klamath Project.






Reclamation is advising everyone down river to be aware of the temporary rise in flows. The most significant increase will happen today between noon and midnight.

Neighborhood Watch event set for March

The Klamath County Sheriff's office will host a county-wide neighborhood watch meeting March 24th. There will be several speakers on the agenda, and it's an opportunity for existing neighborhood watch groups to get together, plus give anyone in Klamath County the chance to know what's going on in local neighborhoods. It will be at the Klamath County Fairgrounds, exhibit building 3 from 6 to 8 pm March 24th.

Marketing efforts hope to draw people to Klamath Basin

You might now know it because the ads are missing us, but Discover Klamath is busy spreading the word about why tourists should come to the Klamath Basin. Ninety-seven percent of what the group is doing is based outside the county. Some of the marketing is going toward the Rogue Valley and Roseburg, and other efforts into northern California, particularly Sacramento and Eureka.

Super Bowl weekend stats on the road

During the Super Bowl weekend festivities, Oregon State police confirm two traffic fatalities from two separate accidents. Troopers also reported 59 DUII arrests, which is one more than last year's Super Bowl weekend. Four of those arrests were in the Klamath Falls area. Also last year there were no fatal traffic accidents in Oregon. The two confirmed fatal accidents occurred after the conclusion of the game Sunday night.

School saves big money

Henley High School is saving big money. The school's new energy efficiency initiative saved $12,500 in heating costs in December, and Klamath County School District officials anticipate a continued annual savings of $70,000 a year. The high school's natural gas bill went from from $13,200 in December 2009 to $631 in December 2010.

Red Tie Romp this weekend

The 7th annual Red Tie Romp happens Saturday at 5:30 at the Ross Ragland Theater to benefit outreach and education programs. They'll have music, food, and live and silent auctions. It's in conjunction with the Klamath County Chamber of Commerce.

Children's Museum to benefit at Applebees

If you eat at Applebees on March 1st, 15% of your meal ticket will benefit the Children's Museum of Klamath Falls. This will actually happen the first Tuesday of every month. It's a Meet me at Applebee's fundraiser and all you have to do to help the museum is show up and eat. They'll take care of the rest.

Kitzhaber's energy bill to be discussed today

The House Education Committee will take a first look today at Kitzhaber's plan to put people to work by retrofitting schools and other public buildings with modern energy-efficient technology. Supporters of his plan hope to protect the environment while helping schools save money on their energy costs. The bill leaves several details to be decided, including the cost.

KFPD arrests 20

Klamath Falls police arrested and released 20 people for rioting Saturday night in a neighborhood near Ponderosa Junior High School. Officers broke up an assault involving several suspects near Henderson and Williams Streets, according to a news release from the Klamath Falls police department. Police arrested and charged 19 adults and one juvenile with felony rioting and disorderly conduct. All 20 were cited and released.

Construction delays possible

A reminder that you may run into some construction delays this week as ODOT continues to work on area roads. Highway 39/Crater Lake Parkway traffic is restricted to one land in each direction with a 25mph speed limit in the work zone. There is a partial viaduct replacement happening there, and the contractor is removing the old structure and constructing footings for a new retaining wall.

California fairs in trouble, public hearings set

There's a proposal on the table in California to cut 100 percent of the state funding for local fairs. The California Fairs Alliance developed a list of fairs that have the highest risk for shutting down. The Butte County Fair in Tulelake is number one on the list. There are a couple of public hearings coming up to discuss the future of California fair funding. The first will be Wednesday evening at 6pm at the Tulelake-Butte Valley Fair. The next at 6pm Thursday at Dorris City Hall. They'll have information on the current state of fairs, and will ask for public ideas and input on how to sustain the fair.

Klamath Falls man sentenced to two years behind bars

41-year old Erik Michael Nieters of Klamath Falls has been sentenced to 24 months in prison for 4th degree assault and strangulation. He has been convicted of at least three other crimes of domestic violence, which helped lead to stiff sentence. The most recent incident happened back in January of 2008. Nieters also has reckless driving convictions, probation violations, and attempting to elude on his record.

State troopers will crack down this weekend

With the Super Bowl this weekend, there's a major effort by Oregon law enforcement to crack down on impaired drivers. At a kickoff event yesterday, volunteer drinkers were tested by police officers, who demonstrated the effects of alcohol on driving. It was part of the "fans don't let fans drive drunk campaign." It's supported by the National Football League and several other organizations including Mothers Against Drunk Driving. In addition to New Year's Eve, Super Bowl Sunday has become a dangerous day on the road. If you're going to party, have that designated driver.

Now is the time to add a child to a health insurance policy

Oregon families that want to sign up children under the age of 19 for an individual health insurance police can do so now. February is an open enrollment month. The next opportunity is in August. The open enrollment month doesn't affect employer-based plans, it's just individual ones. Not all Oregon insurers offer child-only plans, but the major carriers do offer family plans and will add children during this open enrollment period.

Beware of a scam

The Oregon Department of Justice has received several complaints about phony debt collection calls. Scam artists pose as debt collectors or law enforcement officers calling about an outstanding debt from an online payday loan. They frequently use fake phone numbers and official sounding business names. They also do their research. Some Oregonians have been tricked into paying nonexistent debt because the scam artist knew personal information about them, including their Social Security number, home address, e-mail, and names of family and personal references. Call the consumer hotline if you have something to report. That's 1-877-877-9392.

Counterfeiter goes door to door

There were reports in Klamath Falls this week of an older Native American man attempting to exchange counterfeit twenty dollar bills for ten's. He has been described as 5'6" tall with long hair, wearing a beanie cap and driving a white 1990's mini van. He went door to door at several businesses. If you see this man call police.

Chamber Breakfast March 4th

Breakfast with the President is returning for the Klamath County Chamber of Commerce. The next one will be March 4th, with guest speaker Kelly Minty Morris fo the Citizens for Public Safety Steering committee. She spent five years as an anchor/reporter for an NBC TV affiliate on the east coast, before returning to southern Oregon. You can go to http://klamath.org to purchase tickets for the breakfast. They're $20 each.

Grand jury hands down indictment on sex charges

A 19-year old man has been indicted on sex charges. Ernesto Venegas was charged with using a child in display of sexually explicit conduct, third-degree rape and two counts of third-degree sodomy. Klamath County District Attorney Ed Caleb said the victim is a 15-year-old girl. The crimes were allegedly committed between Feb. 15 and June 15, 2010. With the grand jury indictment, more court dates are pending.

Petition process to begin soon for tax levy

A proposed tax levy would likely last five years, collect 60 to 65 cents per $1,000 in assessed property value. It would provide funding for sheriff's patrols, the Klamath County Jail, district attorney and juvenile departments, and local fire and ambulance services districts. That's according to Brian Smith, chair of a political action committee developing the levy. A petition will probably be made public in the next two weeks.

Meth problem grows

Authorities are closely watching the meth problem right now, especially with a lack of jail space. Klamath County Sheriff Tim Evinger says the county is seeing quite a bit of drug activity that is being used to fund gangs in Mexico. Gun trafficking goes along with that. In the past six months, Klamath County Sheriff's deputies made 84 meth-related arrests, only three fewer than they made in all of 2009, according to Lt. Monty Holloway.

Budget cuts likely in Oregon

Governor John Kitzhaber's budget proposal announced this week closes a big spending gap without widespread tax increases. You might guess there will be cuts involved. The proposal includes cutting nearly half the beds in juvenile prisons along with steep cuts to funding for education, health care and other programs. Education advocates are warning about the potential for increased class sizes, shorter school years and cuts in extracurricular programs

Air quality alert

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued air pollution advisory for Klamath County that will last through Saturday. The DEQ urges you and I to limit outdoor burning, use of uncertified woodstoves and pellet stoves, and driving and idling vehicles. You can always go to http://klamathair.org for the latest alerts and conditions.

Oregon Law Enforcement sends message backed by the NFL

With the Super Bowl this weekend, there's a major effort by Oregon law enforcement to crack down on impaired drivers. At a kickoff event yesterday, volunteer drinkers were tested by police officers, who demonstrated the effects of alcohol on driving. It was part of the "fans don't let fans drive drunk campaign." It's supported by the National Football League and several other organizations including Mothers Against Drunk Driving. In addition to New Year's Eve, Super Bowl Sunday has become a dangerous day on the road. If you're going to party, have that designated driver.

OIT launches new marketing effort

The Oregon Institute of Technology is stepping up marketing efforts and will focus on three key states: California, Washington, and Hawaii. OIT gets the bulk of its students from those states, and Oregon of course. Alaska is next. New marketing methods will include providing more information to high school counseling, increasing OIT's presence online and at college learning fairs.

Governor's budget doesn't include new taxes

Governor John Kitzhaber has released his new budget proposal. The budget doesn't include any new taxes, and includes an 8 percent spending increase. There will be cuts to some programs. Heather Conroy, executive director of the caregivers union, SEIU, reacts.






Fewer service for homebound seniors and those with disabilities are likely, along with fewer work hours for caregivers.

Blanchard sentenced for robbing grandfather

A Klamath Falls man has been sentenced to six years in prison for tying up his grandfather, robbing him and stealing his car. 23-year old Frank Blanchard pleaded guilty Tuesday to kidnapping, robbery and unlawful use of vehicle. His alleged accomplice, 20-year-old Judith Nicole Alvarez, is awaiting trial. The incident happened just after Thanksgiving, and Blanchard was arrested several days later in California.

YMCA wins award

In case you missed it last weekend, the Klamath Falls YMCA has won business of the year from the Klamath County Chamber of Commerce. The YMCA was nominated by Chamber members for their dedication to the community. The Y manages multiple children's sports programs, after school care, pre-school, and fitness classes. Estimates are that hundreds if not thousands of local families benefit from Y programs each year.

Legislature looks at speeding tickets

As the Orgon legislature begins its session, budgets will be a big issue. Also speeding tickets. Motorists with good driving records can typically get their speeding tickets reduced now. But a new bill calls for a standard fine structure for low-level violations like speeding. A class B violation, for example, would be $260 and judges wouldn't have discretion to lower it.

Tech continues good season

The Oregon Tech men's basketball team is having a good season, up to number 7 in the nation, according to polls released this week. Oregon Tech is 21-3 on the season and it's a record year. Tech, along with number 1 Walsh have the Division II active streak for the longest run in the Top 25 at 72 straight weeks. Oregon Tech plays at Evergreen State Friday nigh.

FBI involved in search for shooter

The FBI is involved now in the search for David Anthony Durham, the accused shooter in the January 23rd incident with Lincoln City police officer Steve Dodds. The FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the location and arrest of Durham. The FBI has obtained a federal fugitive warrant for Durham, in case he has crossed state lines. Investigators believe he could have traveled to California. He also expressed an interest in the Caribbean and Thailand. Officer Dodds meanwhile, continues to improve and is expected to make a full recovery.

Klamath Falls man jailed

A Klamath Falls man who has been charged with numerous property and drug crimes is in the Klamath County Jail after he was picked up for skipping court. 20-year old James Hunter Wilson, 20, would typically not meet the criteria to be lodged in the jail based on his crimes but the repeated offenses the Klamath County Sheriff's office to make an exception.

Ducks are chipping in for new complex

A gift from Nike Chairman Phil Knight to the University of Oregon won't come without a cost. The university athletic department will get a lump sum from the billionaire benefactor, but the agreement requires that work be done at the department's expense before construction begins on the Ducks' football complex. That will cost the university $1 or $2 million, but athletics director Rob Mullens says the athletic department can afford it.

Basin Mediactive buys several Klamath Falls stations

Basin Mediactive LLC, is an Oregon based company owned by the Ingstad family, and they've been operating stations since 1936. The company has signed an agreement to purchase KLAD AM and FM, KAGO AM and FM, and KYSF FM from Revitalization Partners LLC. Rob Siems (Simms) will continue his role as general manager. The Ingstad family says they are excited about the opportunity, and they hope to help Siems continue the committment to localism. Pending FCC approval they hope to close the transaction on or before May 1st.