Hydropower Project moves forward

The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation ays the Klamath Irrigation District's proposed hydroelectric generation facility would have no significant environmental impact. The project now goes to public review. The district wants to start construction of the 900-kilowatt facility this fall and have it operational by the 2012 irrigation season.

KCC celebrates expansion

Klamath Community College celebrates the completion of its Phase 1 construction project next Friday the 9th with a dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony. It'll be at the Campus Courtyard at KCC. This brings three new buildings, more than doubling the square footage of facilities at the college. The new buildings include a Career Technical Center, Health Science Building, and a bookstore.

Southern Oregon man arrested for wildlife crime

Police have taken a man into custody on wildlife-crime related charges and firearm charges. 38-year old Shawn Stevens from Sutherlin was arrested yesterday at his home. State troopers found a loaded weapon plus elk and deer antlers, which were unlawfully possessed. State police say the arrest is not related to an ongoing investigation into poaching a trophy White-tailed buck deer in Sutherlin earlier this month.

Fire investigation continues

Investigators continue to look into the cause of Monday's fire and so far there is nothing definitive. The blaze destroyed the building on the corner of 11th and Klamath Avenue, and damage estimates have been reported to exceed $1 million. The buildng was a storage facility for Boyd's Wholesale Meats. A neighboring building was also damaged, as well as vehicles in the parking lot. Arson has not been ruled out. Accidental causes are also being considered.

Geologists finding fault(s)

Oregon geologists will be digging a trench next month, to find out more about a newly-discovered earthquake fault. They hope to find out how often earthquakes happen there, near Mount Hood, and how much of a hazard it is to people. Those geologists have been flying all over the state, using a laser system to find hidden faults. Of the four found so far, one is in Klamath County.

Commissioners' meeting moved

Two commissioners are out of the office today, so the weekly meeting for the Klamath County Board of Commissioners has been moved to Wednesday at 9am. The meetings are held in the Klamath County Government Center at 305 Main Street.

Man arrested for deserting military post

31-year old Abraham Colson Bearpaw of Klamath Falls was arrested Sunday afternoon for allegedly deserting his military unit. He's being held at the Klamath County Jail until he can be transferred into military custody. Kingsley Field has no record of Bearpaw ever serving there, and little is being said about where he was stationed or when he allegedly deserted his post.

Highway 97 investigations continue

State Police from the Klamath Falls office are still investigating two serious injury traffic accidents that happened about one mile apart from each other Sunday afternoon on Highway 97 north of Chiloquin. The first accident happened when a commercial truck pulling a semi-trailer loaded with grapes driven by a California man lost control. That driver was rushed to Klamath Falls for medical attention. As troopers were clearing the scene, a second accident happened a mile south near milepost 237. One man was pinned and had to be extricated. He was taken by air ambulance to Bend.

Fire investigation continues

Yesterday's fire marked the second time in two weeks firefighters were called to 11th Street and Klamath Avenue, and the fourth time in two weeks crews were called the general location. Fire officials say yesterday's blaze caused hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage, not to mention resources. More than 30 firefighters fought the blaze. The arson unit of the Oregon State Police are involved with the investigation.

Crews battle blaze near Klamath Ave and 11th

Local fire officials are still working on a structure fire that started in the building on the corner of Klamath Avenue and 11th street. The first call came in around 5:30 this morning when law officers in the area heard breaking glass and saw smoke.






That's Monte Keady (Kay Dee), Fire Chief for Klamath Fire District One.






That investigation is ongoing. We'll keep you updated.

Tourism grants available September 1

Applications for Klamath County's community tourism grants will be available starting Thursday at the Klamath County Government Center. The grants are awarded every year and fund local tourism projects with revenue from the transient room tax. A marketing class required for all grant applicants will be at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 15 at Discover Klamath, 205 Riverside Drive. The deadline for turning in grant applications is 2 p.m. Sept. 30.

No affordable housing funds for Klamath County this year

Klamath County communiites aren't getting state assistance to build affordable housing projects this year. Twenty communities in Oregon will get almost $40 million in funds for affordable and low-income housing projects. Roseburg and Medford are on the list, but Klamath County didn't apply for any assistance.

Northern Klamath County accident leaves one man seriously injured

Two vehicles collided Sunday morning on Highway 97 near Crescent and one man had to be taken to the Oregon Burn Center with serious injuries. 31-year old Juan Caballero of Washington was the one seriously hurt after becoming trapped in a vehicle that caught fire. His passengers suffered just minor injuries. Gale Starbuck of LaPine - the other driver - was unhurt. A passing truck driver stopped to extinguish the fire before emergency personnel arrived. State police are investigating Caballero's fatigue as a contributing factor in the crash.

Oregon economist downgrades outlook slightly

The state economist says the forecast ‘somewhat weaker,' and uncertainty threatens outlook for revenue growth. Mark McMullenreleased the quarterly economic and revenue forecast Friday, which shows that due to expected losses in labor earnings and investment income, the outlook for the 2011-13 biennium is somewhat weaker than what was predicted in the May 2011 forecast. The job market, and business and consumer confidence are big factors.

Treasurer's office may be moved

Embattled Treasurer Mike Long's office may be moved to another location following reports that his presence in the county's IT department is disruptive. He was just moved there, in the basement of the Klamath County Courthouse as the investigation that he behaved inappropriately toward female employees gained steam. Commissioners asked Long to resign, but he refused. Because he is an elected official, he can not be fired. Klamath County commissioners have discussed several options, including renting an office for Long downtown or having Long work from home.

Road work scheduled August 30 and 31

You may find delays next week as road crews perform some work. On Tuesday, the Klamath Falls Street Division is scheduled to pour a layer of pavement over the existing layer on Applegate Avenue between Mitchell and Division. Then Wednesday they'll add new asphalt to Vine Street between East Main and Owens.

Trial delayed in arson case

The arson trial for Michael Scott Wynn has been delayed indefinitely. Wynn is accused of setting fire to a county government building back in February and has been at a state hospital in Salem since June. He'll continue to undergo psychological evaluations.

Full day kindergarten coming to Oregon

Governor Kitzhaber has signed the bill that mandates full day kindergarten. The law will go into effect four years from now. Right now Oregon funds a half-day of kindergarten, and some districts spend federal funds or charge tuition money to provide the full day. Beginning in 2015 the state pays for a full day of kindergarten.

ID Kits available at State Fair exhibit

For the fourth straight year, the Oregon State Police - Missing Children Clearinghouse will hand out free Children Identification Kits during the State Fair in Salem. The ID Complete Child Identification and DNA kits contain the cheek swab for DNA collection and the information is quick to fill out. The ID kits are available at the State Fair next Monday through Wednesday.

State Trooper with local ties receives honor

Oregon State Police Senior Trooper Mark Prodzinski is the first-ever recipient from Oregon to receive the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation's "Guy Bradley Award" recognizing dedication in protecting natural resources and advancement of wildlife conservation. The Governor was on hand for the presentation yesterday in Portland. Prodzinski was first assigned as a state trooper at the Klamath Falls office in 1983.

Chiloquin close to a new center for youth

It looks like Chiloquin is getting a new youth center. The Chiloquin Fire Department has donated a building and organizers are seeking for funds to partially renovate it. The building is also home to the Chiloquin Food Pantry. Officials say its' structurally sound, but needs some basic improvements, including a new roof and upgrades to the kitchen.

Jeld Wen under new leadership

A few weeks ago, asset management company Onex Corporation announced it was purchasing 58 percent ownership in Jeld Wen. Now Phillip Orsino of Onex has officially taken over as President. Jeld Wen spokesperson Teri Cline.






The completion of the purchase still hinges on debt financing conditions and regulatory approvals.

Lightning starts forest fires

Small wildfires were set off yesterday morning by lightning strikes at the Klamath National Forest. Some fires are still burning, but suppression efforts have been successful and they're not expected to grow.

Anti-tax activist released from jail

Oregon anti-tax activist Bill Sizemore is out of jail. He was released after serving 18 days of a 30-day sentence for state tax evasion, out early for good behavior and for working at the county jail complex in Salem. Sizemore pleaded guilty to three felony counts of tax evasion after he failed to file state income tax returns for three years. He'll have to file the missing tax returns and be on probation for three years.

Man gets prison sentence for beating

50-year old Jacob Allen Linde was sentenced to more than 9 years in prison yesterday for beating a man he was angry with. Linde was convicted of second-degree assault and other charges in the attack that left the victim with serious head injuries and broken bones. Linde was reportedly angry with the man for costing him his job.

Blue Green Algae alert issued

Blue green algae is a concern again, and that has led authorities to issue a health advisory at Gerber Reservoir, 42 miles east of Klamath Falls. Water monitoring has confirmed the levels are right for the algae to produce toxins harmful to humans and animals. Swallowing or inhaling water droplets should be avoided, as well as skin contact for humans and animals. Exposure can cause numbness and tingling, and dizziness that requires immediate medical attention.

Man's arm severed in Sutherlin accident

Oregon State Police are continuing the investigation into Tuesday afternoon's serious injury traffic crash on Interstate 5 south of Sutherlin. 35-year old Richard Thacker lost control and sideswiped a commerical truck. His passenger, Ryan Smith also of Sutherlin, had his arm out the window and it was severed. Thacker was arrested for assualt, reckless driving, DUII, driving while susupended, and other charges. Smith was taken to a Portland hospital for treatment.

Quakes are a reminder of 1993

In addition to yesterday's earthquake in Virginia, there was also one in Colorado yesterday. With two in 24 hours, some are concerned about more. It was 1993 that two major earthquakes near Klamath Falls caused 2 deaths and 7 million dollars in damage. Those quakes were magnitude 6.0 and 5.9. Experts say that despite the Colorado and Virginia earthquakes, there is no worry about a ripple effect on the West Coast.

City Schools have a schedule change

To save money on busing students, Klamath Falls City Schools will start and end their school days an hour later this year. Nothing changes for elementary students. The junior high and high schools change froma seven period class schedule to six periods.

Tulelake man faces sex charges

65-year old Michael Richard Bird of Tulelake is in the Siskiyou County Jail after being charged Sunday for sexual offenses involving a minor child. He's charged with lewd acts with a 14- or 15-year-old and for preventing or dissuading a witness or victim to testify, according to booking documents. He is being held in lieu of $300,000 bail.

Violent offender up for parole, DA urges action

On September 21st the Oregon Board of Parole will hold a parole hearing to determine if Mark Allen Reese will be released from prison and paroled to Klamath County. Reese was convicted of murdering Peggy Hilton in 1986, and has been denied parole three times. This time he has a favorable psychological evaluation which increases the chances of his release, according to DA Ed Caleb. Caleb says Reese is the most dangerous killer he has ever prosecuted, and urges citizens to write to the parole board and politely express an opinion.

The address for the Oregon Parole Board is - Oregon Board of Parole, 2575 Center St. NE, Suite 100, Salem, OR 97301-4621.

The email address is pat.s.ziegler@doc.state.or.us. The phone number is (503) 945-0911.

Salem airport

Salem is looking to expand their airport runway and Klamath Falls is serving as something of a model. The length of Klamath Falls' runway is over 10,300 feet, and Salem's currently is 5800 feet. Airport officials there want a longer, more comparable runway to attract more business flights and company relocations.

Vehicle owners registering online

Oregon car owners are using the Internet in growing numbers to register their vehicles. The DMV reports August 1st saw a single-day record of about 17 hundred license renewals for cars, trucks and SUVs. Normal workload for the DMV is about 700 orders for license plate renewals each day.

Voters could decide on legalizing marijuana

Citizen groups in Oregon are busy collecting signatures to put the marijuana legalization question on the ballot next year. There are not enough signatures yet, but groups have until next summer to collect them. The marijuana proposal would make it legal for adults to grow and use marijuana without a medical card and to purchase it from state-licensed stores.

Business owners bring awareness to area south of the main drag

Local business owners held a neighborhood party yesterday to draw people to the area downtown south of Main Street. About 20 businesses there opened for walking tours and organizations set up booths on Oak Street between South Sixth and Seventh. Business owners told the Herald And News, awareness can go a long way toward revitalizing downtown.

Gains in recent years help Oregon's University system

Oregon's seven public universities are doing a better job of retaining students. So even though increases in the number of first-time freshmen are starting to flatten out, the university system could top 100,000 students for the first time this fall. OIT doesn't expect any enrollment increase.

State Fair starts Friday

The Oregon State Fair starts Friday and runs through Labor Day, September 5 at the fairgrounds in Salem. Kids five and under are free, and parking is free. The Oregon Parks and Rec Department says there are more than 9000 things to do, see, and taste at this year's fair.

Man gets prison time for burglary

37-year old Joseph Wayne Adams has been sentenced to 45 months in prison for first degree burglary and theft. District Attorney Ed Caleb's office says on June 21, Adams burglarized and damaged several houses in Klamath County. Adams' prison sentence results from a long criminal history of convictions including Robbery, Burglary, Theft, Attempted Felony Theft, Harassment, Trespass, Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle, Possession of a Concealed Weapon, and Failure to Appear.

State police investigate fatal accident

A 61-year old Lake Stevens, Washington woman died Saturday night in a traffic crash after losing control of the pickup she was driving and traveling off the southbound lanes of Interstate 5 about ten miles south of Ashland. The pickup was pulling a trailer with a 32-foot aluminum boat.61-year old Bernice Gracey died at the scene. OSP troopers are still investigating.

Two die in I-5 accident

A Bonanza woman was involved in a car accident that killed two Phoenix-area residents yesterday. It happened on Interstate 5 about a mile north of Rogue River. The victims' pickup came to rest after rolling multiple times, and the 68-year old driver was ejected. The passenger was using safety restraints, but also died at the scene. 59-year old Mona Jean Sullivan of Bonanza and her husband were not injured.

Wildfire contained, but damage has been done

The fire just outside the city of Rogue River, was declared a conflagration by Governor Kitzhaber Friday, which authorized the state fire marshal to send additional resources. Structural task forces from Klamath and Lane counties assisted. Containment came over the weekend, but the investigation into the fire's cause continues.

OIT's solar project breaks ground

Officials broke ground Thursday in Klamath Falls on Oregon's largest public solar system. The solar project will cover 16 acres on the Oregon Institute of Technology campus, and will produce enough electricity to power 900 homes a year, or 35 percent of the campus. The rest will come from the school's on-campus geothermal energy plant, which will create the nation's first college campus fully powered by renewable energy.

Farmers market gets more space

The city had to weigh the costs and traffic impacts of allowing the Farmers Market to take over Ninth Street, but that has been okayed. The Farmers Market won't be confined to a parking lot at Main and Ninth, and can take over Ninth Street between Main Street and Klamath Avenue for the rest of its season. The market lasts through Oct. 16.

Fire season cause new restrictions on area land

Effective yesterday, lands protected by the Klamath-Lake District and Oregon Department of Forestry, including BLM lands west of Gerber Reservoir, are under a regulated use closure. Fire season has been upon us since June 20, and conditions are still favorable for fires. Until further notice, smoking is prohibited, except in vehicles on improved roads. Open fires are prohibited, including campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires and warming fires, except at designated locations.

OIT volleyball underway Saturday

The Oregon Tech Lady Owls Volleyball team opens the 2011 season at Southern Oregon University in Ashland on Saturday, with a contest against reigning NAIA National Champion and Pre-Season No. 1 Fresno Pacific University. This is the first of five matches on the road to kick off their 27 match season. Oregon Tech opens its home schedule with a non-league match versus Simpson University on Monday, Aug. 29th.

Woman survives log truck accident

52-year old Debra Lynn Sparber of Salem was seriously injured Wednesday when her SUV went into the back of an unloaded log truck on Highway 140. The truck was stopped in a work zone for a flagger, and the SUV didn't stop. State police say Sparber was trapped and seriously injured. She was flown to Sky Lakes Medical Center in Klamath Falls and is expected to survive. Her small dog also survived the crash. The driver of the log truck wasn't injured.

Deer were E. coli source

Public Health Department officials confirm that deer roaming through the fields at an Oregon strawberry farm were the source of an E. coli outbreak. Fifteen people got sick and one died. Epidemiologists say deer droppings taken from the far for testing contained 2 different strains of E. coli, including the strain that made people sick in 5 counties.

Investigator says Long and Ringgold should have been fired

Klamath County recently released more public records concerning Treasurer Mike Long and former Assessor Don Ringgold, and an investigator said in her recommendations both Long and Ringgold should ahve been fired if they were hired employees. But as elected officials they could only be removed by a recall vote. Long is accused making sexual comments and touching two female employees. Ringgold is accused of sending racist and pornographic emails.

Group works on law enforcement fund issue

A 12-member group is now in place to work on funding solutions for law enforcement. Six residents are part of the group, along with Sheriff Tim Evinger, DA Ed Caleb, and other local leaders.

Some banks are testing new fees

Some changes are coming for Wells Fargo customers. The bank plans to test a $3 monthly fee for debit cards starting this fall, and Oregon is one of the states for it. The fee will be applied to checking accounts opened in these certain states starting in October; according to CNN Money. The fee would be on top of the monthly service fees that Wells Fargo already charges for checking accounts. Many banks are experimenting with new fees because new regulations are expected to reduce their revenue.

OIT to use all renewable energy

The field of solar panels that will be put up at Oregon Institute of Technology this winter will combine with existing geothermal facilities to make the campus 100 percent powered by renewable energy. Oregon State University and Eastern Oregon University are following suit as part of a program to increase renewable energy on state campuses.

Oregon students not ready for college

The maker of the ACT given to high school students reports about three-fourths of Oregon high school graduates aren't ready to go to college. The latest report indicates they would fail math and science. It also suggests that taking thee years of high school math isn't enough to help them pass freshman college algebra.

Vacant building could get new life

A Pilot Travel Center is looking to move in to the vacant Mollie's Restaurant and Lounge truck stop property on Highway 97, just north of Klamath Falls. The Herald and News reports the Pilot Travel Center would completely demolish what's there now and rearrange everything. The company is waiting for approval from the city of Klamath Falls before it buys the property.

Area whale watchers mourn a death

A 45-foot female gray whale that had entertained observers for months died after getting stranded in the the Klamath River in northern California. The whale swam into the river with her calf in late June after migrating north from the birthing grounds off Baja California. Some scientists say it may have been driven inland by killer whales. Dozens gathered yesterday to mourn her death.

Man sentenced to prison for probation violation

Klamath County Circuit Court Judge Dan Bunch sentenced 22-year old Elliott Parker this week to 5 years in prison for violating his probation. Parker was found guilty of 3rd degree assault, Disorderly Conduct, and Criminal Mischief back in February. Parker had several probation violations before being arrested for DUII on July 31st, and during probation he was to abstain from alcohol use.

US Cellular announces campaign to help schools

U.S. Cellular has announced enhancements to its third annual $1 million Calling All Communities campaign. In May, the company revealed that it was increasing the number of winners from 10 to 18 schools in the community-driven campaign. Thousands of dollars is awarded to schools. Now they've announced the school garnering the most votes will receive $150,000. The next 17 runners up will receive $50,000 each. Between Sept. 9 and Oct. 6, anyone 18 years or older can vote at the U.S. Cellular store on Washburn Way.

Medical problem may have led to fatal accident

Police say it may have been a medical problem that led to a fatal crash involving a La Pine man Monday. Deschutes County Sheriff's officials say 71-year old Robert Currin died when his SUV ran off of Burgess Road in La Pine. Witnesses said the SUV left the road suddenly. Currin was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. He was wearing his seat belt at the time of the crash and the airbag did deploy.

Governor to visit OIT Thursday

A groundbreaking ceremony happens Thursday at the Oregon Institute of Technology to launch the state's largest solar project. Gov. John Kitzhaber and Chris Maples, president of OIT, will have their shovels out, ready to kick off a project that to install large-scale solar panels at OIT, Oregon State, and Eastern Oregon University.

Good Samaritans help rescue State Trooper

A State Trooper near Bend is recovering after stopping to help a stranded motorist. 30-year old Colin Tracy was under a van trying to help fix a flat tire when the van fell on him and caused serious injuries. About a dozen people stopped to help and raise the van before emergency responders arrived. The officer is expected to survive.

Moore officially indicted

William Dean Moore has been charged with shooting and killing Lynda Dunham outside her parents' home Aug. 6, and he'll be tried for murder. No court date has been sent and Moore does not have an attorney. But he was indicted yesterday by a grand jury, and District Attorney Ed Caleb's office says they'll establish that Moore killed Dunham, 47, intentionally.
Moore was denied a court-appointed attorney last week, on the grounds that he had the assets to afford hiring one

New lines being drawn for City Council wards

The city of Klamath Falls has begun the redistricting process. Census results say City Council members' wards must contain 4,190 people, up from 4,000 after the 2000 census. Cities are required to consider characteristics, such as socioeconomic status and race, that could impact how blocks of people vote. They have to consider a list of criteria besides the mathematical calculation.

Troopers investigate Southern Oregon poaching case

State Police are asking for the public's help to identify the person behind last weekend's illegal kill and waste of a trophy White-tailed buck deer in the Sutherlin city limits. Troopers found the found the trophy deer in a large field there, and think the shooting happened Thursday or Friday.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Trooper Jason Stone or Trooper Aaron Baimbridge at (541) 440-3334 ext. 3406.

New Green Retrofitting program comes to Klamath County

Clean Energy Works Oregon last year landed $20 million in federal stimulus money to help homeowners pay for energy-efficiency remodels. The program reaches Klamath County this week, and uses local contractors to complete the work. The program is still working to streamline is process while meeting demand, but the overall goal to create jobs is being achieved.

Brats, Brews, and Blues a success

More than 200 people turned out for Saturday's Brats, Brews, and Blues Festival at the Klamath Yacht Club. The event was hosted by the Sunrise Rotary Club to benefit Camp Evergreen, a bereavement camp for youth. Many advanced tickets were sold, but organizers say walk-up attendance was good too.

Timber industry improves

Good news for Oregon's timber industry. Lumber exports from the western U.S. to Asia were up 30 percent for the first four months of this year. But that's tempered by the fact that Chinese buyers have mostly been buying raw logs rather than finished lumber, and sends costs up here. But analysts say the lumber industry is slowly improving after bottoming out in 2009.

Medical problem could be to blame in Friday wreck

State police think a medical problem led a man to drive off Highway 97 Friday. Dechutes County 911 received calls about an eratic driver, then a short time later the vehicle went into a construction zone and rolled as construction workers watched. 54-year old Hollis Bowers was taken the hospital with non life threatening injuries. No charges will be filed.

Teen pageant seeking applicants

The 2012 Miss Klamath County-Miss City of Sunshine Outstanding Teen Pageant is searching for bright girls to compete for scholarships, prizes and the opportunity to represent the community. The competition will be held on November 19, 2011. Girls between 13 and 17 who attend school in Klamath County are eligible. A six-week pagaent camp will be held on Saturdays in October and November, leading up to the competition.

Interested girls and their parents/guardians are encouraged to visit the pageant website at www.klamath-county-pageants.org. If you have questions or wish to request an information packet and application please contact:

Teri Leeper-Blue, Miss Oregon Field Director 883-9041
Jann Leeper, Co-Director 882-2849

La Pine man sentenced after hitting bicyclist

A 76-year-old La Pine man has been sentenced for driving drunk and hitting a bicyclist last spring. Floyd Foster was sentenced Thursday to just over a year and a half in jail, and also learned he’ll never legally drive again. He'll also have to pay victim Emil Holquin of La Pine, $26,000 in restitution. Holquin's helmet saved his life.

Lotto winner has yet to come forward

It’s the third largest Megabucks Jackpot in Oregon history worth $21.8 million. But the Oregon Lottery hasn't heard from a winner since the ticket was sold in Portland July 30th.

According to the Oregon Lottery the winning numbers are 3-10-15-16-23 and 27.

Man accused of theft arrested again

43-year old Richard Dean Carpenter was booked into the Klamath County jail this week for first degree theft and second degree burglary. Police say Carpenter has been arrested several times since January on theft charges, and the new arrested comes on related warrants. He's being held in leiu of $7500 bail.

One dead after rollover accident

Aa rollover accident on Highway 140 about 30 miles east of Klamath Falls Thursday night claimed the life of one person. State police say along with the driver there were three passengers, but it hasn't been disclosed which of those was killed. The three surviving occupants were taken to Sky Lakes Medical Center for treatment.

Less timber money headed for Klamath County

Klamath County gets about $225,000 less in federal timber payments this year because of a Bureau of Land Management miscalculation. It's a 1.5 percent cut to the county's general fund, which under normal conditions could put three patrol officers on the road. The county will continue to address the issue, but probably not until December when the budget committee reconvenes.

Duck hunting season set for the fall

Oregon waterfowl hunters will see their record run of long duck seasons reach 15 this fall as yet another maximum-length hunting season awaits. Oregon hunters again will have 107 days of duck hunting this fall and winter. The duck season opens Oct. 8 and runs through Nov. 27 in Zone 2, which includes Klamath and Lake counties. Klamath County's goose season opens Oct. 8.

BLM miscalculates

It's being called a miscalculation by the Bureau of Land Management. It means Klamath County will get about 225 thousand dollars less in federal timber payments this year. That's only about one and a half percent of the county's general fund, but it still comes at a bad time for a county where cuts have had to be made to sheriff's patrols and jail capacity due to funding shortages.

Domestic violence a concern for law enforcement

Local law enforcement says neighbors should report domestic violence witnessed near their homes. The Herald and News reports domestic violence often goes unreported, and neighbors can play a big role in brining about justice. Lt. Monty Holloway at the Klamath County Sheriff's office says people think they're overreacting, but they're not. 4800 domestic violence calls came to Klamath and Lake counties last year.

Crews battle Lake County fires

Wildland firefighters have started on a fire burning just west of Summer Lake in Lake County. Crews, fire engines, and a helicopter are involved, and it's believed lightning caused a series of the blazes. Details on how many acres of land have burned aren't yet available.

Scientists right about volcano eruption

Did you know a volcano erupted 250 miles off the Oregon coast in April? Scientists predicted it five years ago and confirmed it recently. A ship took researchers to the site and they used special instruments to make the determination. In 2006 research journals, scientists said it would happen before 2014.

Autopsy results released after Saturday shooting

Autopsy results say Linda Durham was killed by a high-powered rifle bullet that struck her in the chest. 46-year old William Dean Moore was arrested Saturday after the shooting and reportedly confessed. A neighbor called 911 earlier Saturday afternoon to report Moore for harassment. The caller was told a sheriff's deputy was not on duty and would not be available to respond for the harassment call.

Gems set record

The Klamath Falls Gems set a West Coast League record this week for the most wins by an expansion team. Monday's win over Kitsap was the record setter - the 19th this season for the Gems. The last game of the regular season is tonight, also against Kitsap.

Algae advisory lifted

There's no longer an algae advisory at Diamond Lake. The lake is north of Crater Lake National Park and many love it for trout fishing. Health officials have confirmed reduced levels of blue-green algae that can produce toxins harmful to people and pets. So far this year, fewer toxic algae advisories have been issued compared to last year.

Medford man officially indicted

Jordan Criado has officially been indicted by a Jackson County grand jury in the deaths of his family members. Criado is accused of killing his family at their home in Medford on July 18. Three had stab wounds and two died from smoke inhalation. The jury returned an indictment on 24 counts of aggravated murder, four counts of felony murder, first degree arson, and first degree manslaughter.

No injuries in Highway 97 wreck

There were no injuries reported yesterday in an accident on Highway 97 north of Chemult. 49-year old Robert Reinhard of Nevada was southbound when his truck drifted into the northbound lane in front of another commercial truck, according to State Police. The commerical truck eventually flipped onto its side and came to rest. Reinhard was cited for careless driving.

Public comments welcome at resource meeting

The Siskiyou County Resource Advisory Committee will meet on Monday at the Klamath National Forest Supervisor’s Office in Yreka. This will be will be the last meeting where new project presentations will be made. Projects selected this year may be funded and implemented in 2012. The public is invited to attend and provide comment.

Strawberries sickening some

One person in Oregon has died from an e coli outbreak related to strawberries. The fresh berries have been traced to the Jaquith Strawberry Farm in Washington County and sold at a farm stand and farmers markets. Nine people have reported illnesses and four have been hospitalized. The person who died was an elderly woman who died of kidney failure.

Investigation into Klamath County Treasurer Mike Long a quiet one

As the investigation continues into alleged misconduct by Klamath County Treasurer Mike Long, state officials aren't saying much. There's no timeline for the conclusion of the investigation. It's believed state officials now are reviewing the audit released last month, but for now, neither they nor ousted Treasurer Mike Long is commenting.

Link included for Dock Dogs info

The 2011 Tulelake-Butte Valley Fair will host the DockDogs at this year's fair for dock jumping and dock diving. It will happen all four days of the fair in Tulelake. The Big Air competition features dogs running down a 40’ dock and diving into a pool of water after an object, and they're electronically judged for the length of their jump. As long as the dog is at least six months old, it's eligible. Handlers above the age of 7 are welcome.

You can register on site each day, or visit www.dockdogs.com

Local man arrested on assault charges

A Klamath Falls man was arrested early Sunday on domestic abuse charges. 36-year old Souner Blane Crain has been charged with two counts of fourth-degree assault and possession of methamphetamines. Police opened the case against Crain in June, but finally found him Sunday. He's accused of holding his girlfriend hostage for three days and assaulting her while he was on meth. That case was dismissed. The current charges are for punching his girlfriend in June.

Lakeview will update water tower

You may notice changes to the Lakeview Water Tower soon. The plan was to paint "Lakeview, All American City" on the tower, but since Lakeview has been a finalist three times and never a winner, the town is moving on and looking for fresh ideas.

I-5 bridge could be casualty of federal budget crisis

The I-5 bridge plan that would improve the link from Oregon to Washington may be scaled back or cut because of the federal budget crunch. Project officials say the $3 billion project won't happen without federal funding, and some lawmakers are pessimistic about the amount of funds available. The current bridge structure has been criticized for traffic tie ups and earthquake risks.

Insurance Company adds Klamath County First Citizen winner

Gene Thomas Insurance Agency representing Country Financial has added Justin Pearlstein Jr. to the agency. Justin has 5 years of insurance and financial experience and has been active with the Klamath County Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors, Klamath Blues Society, and Klamath Blues Festival. Justin was awarded the Klamath County First citizen Award for 2010.

Tulelake fair to include Dock Dogs

Part of this year's Tulelake Butte Valley Fair, expect DockDogs. The dogs will be competing in several categorys, running down a dock, jumping into the water, and even swimming to the end of a pool to retrieve an object. There are many categories, and events take place all four days of the fair in Tulelake, September 8 through 11. You can register on site each day, or go to www.dockdogs.com.

Chiloquin man charged with murder

46-year old William Dean Moore of Chiloquin has been charged with murder after allegedly shooting and killing his neighbor Saturday evening. He's accused of shooting Lynda Dunham in the abdomen with a rifle while she was on her porch. He shot her from his pick-up while her parents who were visiting, watched. Moore is in the Klamath County Jail, charged with first degree murder.

Former Sen. Hatfield passes away

Former Senator Mark Hatfield of Oregon has died at age 89. Hatfield is also a former governor who was the longest serving US Senator in Oregon history, serving five terms from 1967 to 1997. He died at a Portland residence Sunday.

Man sentenced to prison for March accident

The driver of a van that crashed into a semi truck on snow-covered Highway 58 in March was sentenced to prison yesterday. 27-year old Sean O'Kelly will serve just under three years in prison. The crash happend March 16, about two miles west of the Lane / Klamath County line. The accident killed 34-year old Leah Kentta of Klamath Falls. She was a passenger in a van driven by another Klamath Falls resident who received non-life threatening injuries.

Fire Station to get a new look

Local group, Diversified Contractors, will get just under $1 million to remodel and rehabilitate Fire Station No. 6 in downtown Klamath Falls. The building on the corner of Wall and Broad streets will see interior demolition first and the renovations will bring a new layout. Outside restoration will produce the look from the 1930s. The entire project is being paid for by a $1.3 million grant from the Oregon Office of Emergency Management.

Lakeview makes progress on geothermal project

A geothermal heating project is moving forward in Lakeview. It's expected to reduce energy costs for the Lakeview hospital and several area schools. Lakeview Town manager Ray Simms said a new agreement opens the way for Lakeview to move ahead with an application for a $3.7 million loan to drill a new geothermal well. The system should be up by September 2012.

Store set to reopen after fire

Big R is getting ready to re-open almost two months after an electrical fire closed the doors. The finishing touches are going up now on the renovations necessary after the interior sustained water and smoke damage. The first was contained to a chainsaw display case. The store is expected to reopen August 13.

Big weekend for the Klamath County Fair

The Klamath County Fair is underway at the Klamath County Fairgrounds, and runs through Sunday. The only change from last year is the improved carnival. Tonight and tomorrow it's the PRCA Rodeo with a mix of professionals and amateurs. Those involved in 4H will learn how much money their livestock will bring in at the Rotary 4H Auction that wraps up the weekend.

Medford man goes from hospital to jail

The Medford man accused of killing his wife and children and setting the family home on fire, has recovered enough to leave the hospital. 51-year old Jordan Adam Criado was immediately jailed on aggravated murder charges. He'll be arraigned today in Jackson County Circuit Court. The wife and two signs had stab wounds. The other two children died of smoke inhalation.

Ducks in top 5 in Preseason Poll

After last year's historic season, the Oregon Ducks are ranked third in the new preseason poll for college football. The #3 preseason ranking is the highest in school history, and has Oregon trailing only Oklahoma and Alabama in the poll. The Ducks open camp Monday.

Arson a possible cause of Tuesday fire

Investigators say a fire that damaged the back porch of a home on Wilford Avenue Tuesday night could be arson. Most other causes have already been ruled out, and there are some red flags that point to arson. Oregon state police are investigating.

Early morning Portland flight in the works

The city of Klamath Falls and Jeld-Wen are leading the charge to bring back an early morning flight to Portland. The city has applied for a $250,000 grant from the US Dept of Transportation to put toward the flight. Business leaders say it would dramatically improve accessibility for corporations, heath care and education in the area.

Philip Orsino to join Jeld Wen as new President

We learned this week Jeld-Wen will relinquish majority control, and Canadian asset management company Onex will take a 58 percent majority stake. Jeld Wen Director of Communication, Teri Cline adds this.






Orsino comes to Jeld Wen from Onex. Cline doesn't any changes in the workforce upon the closure of the deal, which is expected by the end of the third quarter.

Veteran's home unlikely for Klamath Falls

It appears a long-term veterans care facility in Klamath County is not likely, in the near future at least. The state won't authorize any new long-term care homes for veterans until at least 2015, and even then, the first new veterans home is designated for Roseburg, Oregon. A bill signed earlier this year by Gov. John Kitzhaber, would allow the state to build two new veterans homes, but only one in Lebanon is up and running.

Judge rejects salmon plan

A federal judge in Oregon has ruled the Obama administration's attempt to make federal hydroelectric dams in the Northwest safer for protected salmonviolates the Endangered Species Act. The judge ruled the plan is too vague, but he left it in place through 2013. More specific projects were ordered.

Resource officers help with drug busts

The summer break has not only meant time out of school for students, but it has also given school resource officers a chance to focus on other projects. Resource officers with the city police were reassigned this summer, and were actually instrumental in the drug investigation that led to marijuana seizures and a meth bust at two businesses and a home last Friday.

Oregon boy's "Message in a Bottle" found in Hawaii

If you put a message in a bottle and drop it into the ocean, do you really believe it will be found? A ten-year old Oregon boy did it a year ago, and a 9-year old girl in Hawaii has found it. Thomas Craig of Silverton is 11 now, and has actually been exchanging emails with his new pen pal.

Jeld Wen should remain stable despite changes

Some changes are underway at Jeld-Wen. Canadian-based asset management company Onex is entering into a revised agreement with Jeld-Wen to invest in 58 percent of the company, up from 39 percent announced in May. Will that mean changes locally? Director of Communication for Jeld-Wen, Teri Cline.






The deal should close by the end of the third quarter of this year.

Enrollment and GPAs both up at Oregon colleges

Enrollment at Oregon's public universities keeps going up. The number of students attending, has risen 40 percent over the last 10 years and could top 100,000 this fall. That's putting pressure in schools to provide housing and class space for the new students. At the University of Oregon, the GPA for incoming freshmen has risen from 3.4 to 3.6.

Sage Grouse under new management plan

The Bureau of Land Management has unveiled a new strategy for sage grouse, which have been considered for listing as an endangered species. The idea is to manage habitat across the range, instead of breaking it into BLM district and state. Wildlife biologist Erik Molvar.






Oregon does better than most of the west when it comes to sage grouse numbers.

Local police crack down on drugs

Klamath Falls police made seizures last week as part of a multi-week investigation into alleged drug activity. At the Cannabis Pipeline and the Klamath Compassion Center, detectives seized marijuana plants, packaged marijuana, money and business records. Detectives later seized methamphetamine and a firearm from El Mariachi Restaurant, and marijuana plants at a home on Hilyard Avenue.

Weekend fire started by lightning

Lightning is to blame for a 40-acre fire that started Sunday evening. Sagebrush and scrub burned in the Klamath Hills. No structures were damaged. Firefighters from the Oregon Department of Forestry were working to extinguish the final remnants of the blaze Monday.

Motorcycle accident claims one

A Canadian man died Sunday afternoon south of Alturas after a motorcycle accident. 55-year old Michael Rodger's motorcycle struck a deer and flipped over on Highway 395. Rodger was taken to Modoc Medical Center and then lifeflighted to Mercy Medical Center in Redding where he was pronounced dead.

Major Klamath Falls employer to undergo changes

Some changes are underway at Jeld-Wen. The company will relinquish majority control of its corporation pending closure of a deal with Canadian-based asset management company Onex Corp, according to a news release. Onex announced in May it would invest $475 million to take a 39 percent ownership share of Jeld-Wen Inc., but the numbers have increased. Onex will now invest $864 million, or about 58 percent. Jeld-Wen will continue to be headquartered in Klamath Falls.

Dorris Community Center opens in three weeks

The Dorris Community Center is almost finished. The grand opening ceremonies are just around the corner, August 20, and crews now are just wrapping up the final touches. Construction began last August, and about 150 people have volunteered as construction crew members since then, or have donated cash or helped with food. The cost estimate started out at $961,000, but gradually rose to $.12 million.

Man arrested after Saturday accident

A Klamath Falls man was arrested yesterday on kidnapping and assault charges. 50-year old Victor Henry Jackson was booked for an incident that ended with him rolling his vehicle on Highway 97 Saturday. Investigators say a fight broke out inside the vehilce and crashed south of Chiloquin. Jackson is being held in the Klamath County Jail on $140,000 bail and is charged with first-degree kidnapping, third-degree assault, fourth-degree assault (domestic abuse), recklessly endangering, and menacing.

Klamath Tribes set for August event

The Klamath Tribes celebrate the 25th anniversary of restoration as a federally recognized tribe later this month. The three-day celebration begins Friday, Aug. 26 with a fun run/walk at 10 a.m. followed by a free barbecue. The powwow at the Chiloquin High School football field runs Friday evening and Saturday, with grand entry ceremonies at 1 and 7 p.m. Other Saturday events include a 10 a.m. parade through downtown Chiloquin and noon open youth rodeo at the Chiloquin Rodeo Grounds.

More doctors needed

Southern Oregon is in need of doctors. Klamath County's current medical demands outpace its number of physicians and officials estimate in Klamath Falls alone there is a need for 15 to 20 more physicians for the roughly 100,000 people who seek medical treatment. Some say the doctors trained here are lured away by specialized practices in bigger cities.