Prescribed burns scheduled in the area

This is the time of year many landowners pick for prescribed burns to prepare the ground for replanting and remove woody debris. The Oregon Department of Forestry regulates the prescribed burns to minimize smoke, and allows them during optimum weather conditions to avoid wildfires. So if you see smoke, it's likely a controlled burn.

Woman will serve four and a half years for burglaries

21-year old Jessica Jones has been sentenced to prison. Jones pleaded guilty to first-degree burglary, first-degree aggravated theft and identify theft. She owes tens of thousands of dollars in restitution to her victims, according to court documents. Jones allegedly was involved in several thefts in Klamath Falls, Medford and Central Point, along with two other men. More than $100,000 worth of stolen property was recovered when they were arrested.

Jeld-Wen deal moves forward

As the Onex Corp. buys a majority stake in Jeld Wen, the company will boost its investment to $889 million, according to the Oregonian. That's $25 million more than orginally planned. Of the total, $189 million is reportedly a bridge loan from Onex to be repaid as Jeld-Wen sells off assets. There have been very few public comments or confirmations this week from Jeld-Wen.

Gems add to their roster

The Klamath Falls Gems have announced the commitment of eight players for the 2012 season, bringing the team's total commitments to 29 players. Gems General Manager Chuck Heeman says the team has a few more commitments that haven't signed yet, and they'll be announced soon. The team is 6-8 players away from completing the fall roster.

OIT prepares for basketball season

Oregon Tech is getting ready for the basketball season. The women's team opens up the season on the road November 5th and 6th in Walla Walla, Washington against Walla Walla University. The first home game doesn't happen until November 18. For the men, they'll open up at home October 30 at 2:30 against Pacific Union College.

Trout habitat improvement project may involve closures

The Fremont-Winema National Forest, Klamath Basin Rangeland Trust and state wildlife officials will be completing a restoration project designed to improve redband trout spawning and rearing habitat on the Lower Williamson River. About 300 large logs will be placed in the river to replace wood that's been lost over the years. They'll use a helicopter to do it, and depending on weather and helicopter availability, the plan is to do it Monday. There will be several closures around the operation and we'll post the link for more information.

http://prdp2fs.ess.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5332636.pdf

Henley HS Pumpkin Patch open Saturday

Henley High School is offering a pumpkin patch every Saturday in October, and it opens tomorrow at 10am. Meghan Biggs.






All proceeds from the U-Pick pumpkin patch go directly towards the FFA members attending National Convention at the end of October. The pumpkin patch is open from 10 to 4 tomorrow.

Jeld Wen lowers bond offering

Jeld Wen boosts its credit rating with a smaller bond offering. Reports continue to circulate that the company is offering 4448 million in company bonds, but spokesperson Teri Cline can't confirm or deny the reports. Cline did confirm though that the company had lowered its bond issuance from $575 million to $448 million. And the move improved Standard and Poor's credit rating on those bonds.

RR work continues

Know that the railroad will be performing maintenance on the railroad track bridge over Quarry Street again today, and that means Quarry is closed from 8am to 3pm. Work should be finished by the end of the day Friday.

Downtown deals with graffiti

First concerns about fires in downtown Klamath Falls, now concerns about graffiti. Christ Lutheran Church and two buildings owned by Pete Fondi, were tagged with words and images, including handguns and racist and derogatory phrases. All buildings are on Spring Street near Main. The city provides vouchers to property owners that have graffiti problems, to cover the cost of paint.

Favell Museum to offer vintage clothing

A vintage trunk show and sale is coming up Saturday at the Favell Museum. From 1 to 4 that day you can look over designer fashions from the 1890's to the 1970's, and proceeds will benefit the Favell Museum.

Forest maps coming in February

The Fremont-Winema National Forest’s Motor Vehicle Use Map that displays designated motorized vehicle routes available for public use, will be released next February. It's an elaborate system of designated routes that provides about 6,400 miles of roads and 173.5 miles of trails for motorized use. It will be available at all Forest Service offices, and we'll post the link.

It will also be available on the Forest’s Web site (www.fs.usda.gov/goto/fremont-winema/travelmanagement) and on a national site listed by state and forest (http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/ohv/ohv_maps.shtml).

Geothermal heating system delayed by leak

The city was scheduled to start up the geothermal heating system for the winter season on Tuesday, but a substantial leak was discovered somewhere in the system. Once it's pinned down with the help of a contractor, crews will get the system repaired and turned on.

Henley High School offers Pumpkin Patch

Henley High School opens their pumpkin patch this Saturday with "ag-tivities" in addition to pumpkins.






Maghan Biggs says everyone is welcome to bring a camera and take lots of pictures. The pumpkin patch is on school grounds at Henley High School this Saturday from 10 to 4, and every Saturday in October.

State appeals court strikes down gun ban

The State Court of Appeals has ruled the University of Oregon can't ban guns on campus. The ban has been in place for decades, and this overturns it. The judges found that only the Legislature can regulate the possession of firearms under a 1995 state law that aims to prevent cities from creating their own gun bans.

Jeld Wen bond sale not yet confirmed

Late yesterday word started circulating that Jeld-Wen is moving forward on a $448 million sale of high-yield bonds as Onex Corporation buys in. Information orginated from the Oregonian, and when Jeld-Wen spokeswoman Teri Cline was asked to comment she declined because of Securities and Exchange Commission rules. Nothing has been confirmed or denied.

Local board honored with state award

The 2011 Oregon Governor’s Volunteer Awards honors 19 individuals and 13 organizations for commitment to voluntary service in the state. The SMART Youth Advisory Board in Klamath Falls has been named the Outstanding Youth Volunteer Program. SMART reaches 25 schools and over 1000 children by pairing community members with preschool and kindergarten-age children to read to them twice a week. Because of tremendous fundraising and awareness efforts, seven new SMART programs could be opened in the Klamath Basin area. The group will get its award at a luncheon November 4th in Salem.

Pumpkin Patch opens this weekend

Henley High School is opening their pumpkin patch this weekend. Meghan Biggs:






It's this Saturday from 10-4 and every Saturday in October.

Local program honored by the State

The 2011 Oregon Governor’s Volunteer Awards honors 19 individuals and 13 organizations for commitment to voluntary service. Regarding Outstanding Volunteer Programs, Klamath Falls has a local program that will be honored. Kids in the Middle Mentoring Program, with Citizens For Safer Schools will be recognized at a luncheon in Salem November 4th.

Jeld-Wen fined

Jeld-Wen will have to pay a big federal fine for violating the Clean Air Act. The door and window-making company was fined for allegedly failing to install pollution controls in what the EPA calls a "timely manner" in 4 states - Washington, West Virginia, Iowa and North Carolina. None of the infractions were at the local operation.

Home prices struggle to recover

Home prices in Klamath County are still low. The market changed in 2008 with the recession, and they haven't recovered yet. Homes in the county sold for an average price of $127,000 in the first half of 2011, according to the Klamath County Association of Realtors. That's lower than the $143,000 average last year and the $149,000 level in 2009.

KCC seeks new President, asks for input

Klamath Community College is looking for input about what traits they should look for in a new college president. KCC president Gerald Hamilton will retire June 30 of next year, and a public forum about hiring his replacement will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5, in the KCC boardroom, Room 310 in Building 3.

Whitsett to run for re-election

State Senator Doug Whitsett of Klamath Falls has announced he'll run for re-election next year. Whitsett is wrapping up his second term in the state Senate. He was elected in 2004, and re-elected in 2008, and now he'll run in 2012.

Drug Store may build in Klamath Falls

Walgreens may build a store near South Sixth Street and Washburn Way. The proposal will be discussed Thursday by city officials, and it's just in the preliminary stages now. There's no specific timeline.

Officers look for one more in Chiloquin stabbing case

A stabbing Friday in Chiloquin was apparently the result of a fight over a debt. A woman at a house on baker street was beaten and stabbed in the neck. Klamath County Sheriff's Deputies say it could have been fatal, and neighbors say it's one in a string of incidents in their neighborhood. Two have been arrested, and officers are still looking for Fred Brown for questioning. Sheriff's officials say if you know where he is, you're asked to contact the Klamath County Sheriff's Department.

Randy Nicholson Band heads to regional final

The winner has been announced in the 30th annual Texaco Country Showdown Oregon State Final. The Randy Nicholson Band won the state title and $1000. On November 19th the Randy Nicholson Band will compete in the West Regional Final in Coos Bay to try for a trip to the National Final in Nashville.

Man on parole in Klamath County, in trouble in Bend

A man on felony parole out of Klamath County for burglary, theft and felon in possession of a weapon has been jailed in Bend. 41-year old Ralph Michael Wright Jr. is accused of attempted theft at a gas station, then breaking into a home. He was taken to the Deschutes County Jail and lodged on charges of first-degree burglary, second-degree theft, menacing and two counts of criminal mischief, with bail set at $30,000.

Basketball legend passes away

John Dick has passed away at the age of 92. He was the only surviving member of the 1939 NCAA Championship team for the Oregon Ducks basketball team. His #18 jersey is one of only seven retired by the university.

Meeting to address older school buildings

The public is encouraged to attend a long-range planning meeting tomorrow at the Klamath Falls City School District office, 1336 Avalon St. from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Topics discussed include the status of the district's school buildings - most of which are 80 years old or older.

Budget woes lead to Sheriff's Office departures

The tough budget climate has contributed to Klamath County Sheriff Tim Evinger's decision not to run for re-election. And, Lt. Monty Holloway has also announced he's leaving for another job at the Jackson County sheriff's office. The Herald and News reports more than $1.5 million has been cut from the Sheriff's budget in the past 15 months, and that combined with future uncertainty, led to the decisions to leave.

McClintock speaks on dam removal

Congressman Tom McClintock spoke in opposition to the Klamath Dam removal on the House floor recently. He said the generation is facing spiraling energy prices and increasingly scarce supplies, and the hydroelectric dams on the Klamath River are perfectly good, producing clean, cheap electrictiy.






McClintock urged the House to put a stop to the Interior Secretary's plan to remove the dams.

Local hotel gets new life

A software engineer from California bought the foreclosed Rivers Inn Motel earlier this year, and after renovations, could have it open again in October. The hotel is at the intersection of Main and Highway 97. After a history of vandalism and break ins, the new owner wants the current renovations to bring new life and a fresh start.

Highway 58 to stay open next summer

This week ODOT reviewed it's plan to close portions of Highway 58 next summer for construction, and they've decided the road will remain open for much of the July and August next year. Residents of northern Klamath County had been concerned about the closure's effect on tourism and recreation. ODOT will release more details October 12, but for now we know there will be no four-day complete closures, daytime closures or weekend closures in July or August of next year.

Many provide comments on proposed biomass plant

So far energy officials in Oregon have received more than a hundred and fifty written comments on a proposed biomass facility in Klamath Falls. The plant would be on Highway 66 outside the city. Because all of the comments need to be reviewed, it's slowing down the regulatory process. No start date has been announced for construction to begin.

Search begins for Hamilton's replacement at KCC

Gerald Hamilton has announced he's retiring as president of Klamath Community College, effective in the summer of 2012. The college will begin the search for a replacement with a public forum from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 5, 2011. Anyone can attend the forum, in the Boardroom (Building 3, Room 310) at Klamath Community College, 7390 S 6th Street. Comments will be limited to three minutes each.

Hamilton steps down at KCC

Gerald Hamilton has announced his retirement as President of Klamath Community College after five years. Hamilton's retirement is effective June 30, 2012. Hamilton’s tenure as KCC president came during a period of unprecedented growth, as enrollment has increased by approximately 70 percent over that time. Hamilton also oversaw a recently-completed construction project that added three new buildings to campus, nearly doubling the square footage of facilities at KCC.

Man sentenced for Dutch Brothers robbery

Klamath County Circuit Court Judge Dan Bunch sentenced 30-year old Elijah Robert Gilbert to three years in prison this week for robbery of the Dutch Brothers Coffee Stand on Washburn Way. The Attempted Robbery in the second degree offense was committed on 12/14/10, according to DA Ed Caleb.

Proposal would build Veteran's Home without state's help

Klamath County Commissioner Cheryl Hukill proposes using a $15.5 million bond measure passed in 2010 to build a 75-bed long-term care home for veterans in Klamath Falls. This would allow the county to build a veteran's home without waiting for state approval. Once complete, the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs would run the home.

Arrest made in downtown fire

District Attorney Ed Caleb says they don't know if the man arrested Tuesday is a serial arsonist, but he has been connected to at least one of the fires that occurred in downtown Klamath Falls in the past month. 36-year old Zoltan Donald Rozsasi was arrested after evidence linked him to one of the fires, but investigators won't say what the evidence was. He's being held in lieu of $100,000 bail.

Public comment period begins for dam removal

Dam removal on the Klamath River is part of controversial settlement agreements between irrigators, tribes, fishermen and federal agencies. The U.S. Department of Interior now has released a draft of an environmental impact study that lead to a decision from Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar. A two month public comment period has now begun, and ends November 21. A series of public meetings will happen between now and then.

Local man sentenced for theft

Klamath County Circuit Court Judge Roxanne Osborne sentenced 27-year old Landon James Self, to 13 months in prison for Burglary in the second degree. Self committed the crime last November, according to District Attorney Ed Caleb, by stealing from a bike shop at 4527 South 6th Street. Self was a co-defendant of Jonathan Ray Richardson. Self has a prior burglary and firearm conviction on his record.

Jeld Wen carries on despite reports on debt default

The Oregonian reports that Jeld-Wen has about one month to repair its finances or face potential default on more than a half-billion dollars in loans. In a press release, Jeld-Wen officials denied the claim, saying it's based on a false premise and is extremely misleading. Jeld Wen says employees and customers should not be concerned, and there is plenty of liquid cash to carry on with business as usual.

Miscalculation leads to early prison release

Robert Chad Haralson will be released from prison tomorrow. He was convicted of killing Betty Lou Parks, and the Modoc County District Attorney's Office says the earlier than expected release stems from an error in calculating Haralson's prison time when he was sentenced July 2010. Justice officials overestimated the time by about two years.

ODOT considers changing plans on Highway 58 construction

Oregon Department of Transportation officials meet today in Salem to talk about Highway 58. The current plan is to shut down Highway 58 for construction each of the next two summers, and many worry about how that affects tourism. ODOT is looking for a way to limit construction's impact on the local economy, and may change the construction schedule.

Jefcoat squares off against Switzer

Klamath County Commissioner Al Switzer has competition for his seat. Dennis Jefcoat of Chiloquin has filed to run against him. Jefcoat wants a home rule charter form of government, where the county would elect five part-time county commissioners and hire a professional county manager. Right now there are three full-time commissioners. Voters would have to approve the charter.

If you see smoke, it could be a prescribed burn

The Happy Camp Ranger District of the Klamath National Forest has announced prescribed burns. They'll burn 500 acres of vegetation 3 miles northwest of Happy Camp, and another 500 acres six miles northwest. Weather conditions will have the be right for the burns to proceed. The objectives are to reduce hazardous fuel levels while improving overall health of the forest.

Land use restrictions lifted, caution still urged

The fire danger has decreased enough for public use restrictions to be lifted on lands managed by the Fremont-Winema national Forest and the BLM's Lakeview District, but officials still urge fire safety. Cooler weather and shorter days reduce the fire risk, but vegetation is still dry and caution should be used during recreation.

County jobless rate up slightly

Economists with the state employment department say the Klamath County jobless rate was 12.8 percent in August, which is up about a tenth of a point from July. Late summer is typically a time to be adding jobs, but there was no private sector job growth this time around. The public sector did add 60 new jobs, mostly at local schools at the start of the new year.

Police dog improves, thanks to donations

Generosity is helping one of the Klamath Falls Police Department's canines. More than $6,000 in donations have come in so far to cover the medical bills of a dog that began suffering from seizures in August. A tumor has been found in the dog's brain and he's lost some sight. Officers say the dog is doing better each day, and now they've set a goal of $16,000 to acquire and train a new K-9.

Man sought in Siskiyou County

Siskiyou County deputies are still looking for a man who robbed a bank in Happy Camp yesterday. He's described as an adult white male, about 5;7" tall and weighing 150 pounds or slightly more. He reportedly had a gray handgun. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Siskiyou Sheriff's Dispatch Office.

530-841-2900

Three arrested after robbery of a home

A Klamath Falls home was robbed early Monday, and three men were arrested in connection later in the day. The men allegedly handcuffed the woman who lived at the home. Kenneth Meyer, James T. Wozniak and Jason L. Rose, all of Klamath Falls, are facing 16 charges each, ranging from first-degree robbery and kidnapping to a weapons charge and theft.

Two arrested after shots fired

Two men were arrested yesterday after an altercation Sunday at Lake of the Woods Resort. One of the men allegedly pointed a handgun at another man's head and fired it into the air at least nine times. 32-year old Robert Abel of Eagle Point, and 52-year old Thomas Loftin of Crescent City, CA were arrested.

Arson investigations continue

Investigators continue to search for a suspected arsonist. Saturday night's fire at Fleet Pride's Truck Parts Warehouse and Store came three weeks after an apparent arson fire destroyed another building in the same general area. This weekend's fire is estimated to have caused about 40,000 dollars damage, but the store plans to re-open as soon as it makes repairs. Last month, two vehicles were also set on fire just before the fire that destroyed this storage building at Klamath Avenue and 11th Street. Another fire last spring is also listed as suspicious.

Report released on Long investigation

The Department of Justice has released a report on the Klamath County Treasuer position. The department found no evidence of criminal activity or intent by Long or his staff, according to the report. The state closed the case and recommended no punishment for Long. The two female employees who have been on leave since accusing Long of sexual harassment, can have their jobs back whenever they choose to return to work. As for the questions about finances, the report chalks up errors to a lack of ability or inexperience.

Fishing Derby this weekend

The second annual Fall Classic Fishing Derby is coming up this Saturday the 24th at Lake of the Woods. There are prizes for the biggest fish, most fish, and most unusual catch. Sign up at the Marina before you start fishing Saturday, and the last check in will be at 6pm.

Negotiations continue for CA grocery store workers

The strike deadline has passed for grocery store workers in California, and that has left uncertainty. Union talks continue with three major supermarket chains, and the word is negotiators will stay at the table until they feel like no more progress is being made. Most of the debate centers around health care costs. Grocery stores in California are open for business today as a strike looms.

Authorities investigate another suspicious fire downtown

Another human-caused fire downtown? This one happened Saturday night in the 1400 block of Main Street. Authorities say it was manmade, making it the fifth possible human-caused fire in that area in the last few weeks. Just 400-square feet burned in a 20,000 square foot building Saturday, but damage was estimated at $40,000. Trucking company Fleet Pride sells and stores semi-truck parts at the warehouse. Local and state police are investigating.

Woman sentenced after Fred Meyer theft

Janelle Garcia was convicted by a jury last week of stealing a 55 inch television from Fred Meyer. The TV was valued at about $2100. District Attorney Ed Caleb said in a release, Garcia's image was taken by a security camera and the Klamath Falls police department got a search warrant for her home. She was sentenced to 13 months in prison.

OIT announces seminar to help businesses

The Academy for Business Excellence at OIT will happen October 5th through 7th with the Klamath County Chamber of Commerce. Mark McMullen, senior economist at the Oregon Office of Economic Analysis will speak. There will also be sessions on growth, regulatory streaming, home construction, and starting a business. For more, contact the Klamath County Chamber.

Facilitator to help find public safety funding solutions

Members of the Joint Public Safety Advisory Committee now have a facilitator, from outside of the Klamath Falls area, to help find long term solutions for funding public safety. After considering a handful of candidates, the committee hired Paul Koch (COKE) , who owns his own consulting agency, to moderate. Koch recently completed a similar process with Columbia County Washington and is a former city manager.

County building burned in fire will be repaired

The Klamath County Mental Health building that was burned back in February will be repaired. Count leaders had considered razing the building to build a new department headquarters, but the insurer for the county wanted to fix it. The cost to make the repairs will be about $800,000. Construction could being before the end of the year. The man accused of starting the fire, Michael Scott Wynn, is at the State Hospital for mental evaluations before the trial.

US Cellular adds towers

U.S. Cellular recently enhanced their network. The company turned on new cell sites in Klamath County. The new towers in Midland and Bly strengthen areas east and south of Klamath Falls, including Highway 97. Engineers are always driving through the area to test signal strength and call quality, sometimes hundreds of miles a day, according to a company release.

Traffic stop leads to drug arrests

Oregon State Police recently stopped a vehicle on Hwy 66 which led to the seizure of over 672 grams of methamphetamine, 6 firearms, and two arrests. A follow up investigation led to the seizure of 3 additional pounds of methamphetamine delivered to Klamath Falls and the arrest of three subjects. Those suspects have been arrested and lodged at the Klamath County Jail.

KCC has a new agreement with it's faculty

The Klamath Community College Board of Education voted unanimously Thursday to approve a collective bargaining agreement with the KCC Faculty Association. This follows more than two years of negotiations. The agreement spells out processes and procedures for everything from filing a grievance or complaint to requesting sabbatical, filling personnel vacancies, determining workload limits and more. It also sets a 15 year salary schedule.

City and County to meet Monday to talk transportation

The Klamath Falls City Council and City Planning Commission, and the Klamath County Commissioners and County Planning Commission will have a joint meeting on Monday, from 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. at the Klamath County Commissioners Hearing Room. That's 316 Main Street. The purpose of the joint meeting is to review the draft Transportation System Plan.

KCC closed today

Today is a day off for students at Klamath Community College. The school is closed to visitors and students because of an all-day faculty and staff in-service. The normal schedule resumes Monday.

Holly Fire continues to burn

Crews continue to monitor the Holly Fire within the Mt. Thielsen Wilderness Area of the Fremont-Winema National Forest. The fire started August 25 during a lightning storm, and has grown to 10 acres. Visitors traveling on Forest Service Road 9772 to Miller Lake, Oregon State Highway 138 or U.S. Highway 97 may see the smoke, but there are no closures.

New scholarship program announced at Klamath Union HS

Some middle income Oregonians will get help paying for a University of Oregon education next year, thanks to a major gift from UO alumna Mary Corrigan Solari. Roger Thomspon, Vice Provos Enrollment at UO was at Klamath Union High School yesterday to talk about how many students will benefit.






Mary Corrigan Solari grew up in Klamath Falls. She graduated from the UO in 1946 with a degree in psychology. Onely students from middle class families will get the scholarships.

Man sentenced for burglary

Last week 19-year old Seth Gregory Hernandez was sentenced to 26 months in prison for Burglary in the first degree and Failure to Appear. Hernandez was arrested in January after attempting to elude police and hiding in the attic of an acquaintance. District Attorney Ed Caleb says Hernandez also was convicted of the crime of Resisting Arrest and Possession of Meth.

Gas prices should come down this fall

It's no secret gas prices have been high this year, and US motorists are on pace to spend $491 billion for gasoline this year. That would be the most ever. Some good news though, that gas prices are expected to drop. The Oil Price Information Service says the 30 days between now and mid-October will be the most friendly on the pocketbook. The national average is $3.66.

Red Cross reports blood needs

The Red Cross needs blood donations. With the disasters you may have heard about in the news, espcially the flooding in the east, blood drives had to be cancelled and blood banks across the US need to stock up. Brenda Hagge in the Pacific Northwest Blood Services Region including Klamath Falls, urges donations of blood and cash. Visit www.redcross.org.

Most State offices closed Friday

The next mandatory furlough day for state workers is coming up Friday. That means 26,500 state employees take an unpaid day off to save taxpayers about $2 million. This is the first of 10 closures scheduled over the current two-year budget cycle. Most state workers also have four floating furlough days to use. Although most state offices will be closed, you can still do business on websites like the DMV.

Universities heavy on management, new report shows

A new report by the Service Employees International Union Local 503 concludes there are too many mangers getting too many raises, at the expense of faculty and support staff at the university level. Paul McKenna is the research director.






The union released a similar report this spring, critical of state agencies being top-heavy with managers. That resulted in legislation to bring the ratio to one manager for every 11 workers in a department. McKenna says the unversities' ratio is lower, but the new law doesn't apply.

Car accident knocks out power

Crews with Pacific Power are still working on restoring service to all customers. Initially, about 1300 customers were without power after a car crashed into a power pole in downtown Klamath Falls. Crews have to string a new power line from downtown to Highway 97. Most customers have power back now, and those that don't will have it later today.

Residents think recession isn't over

A new poll shows more than half of people in Oregon contacted think the nation is still in a recession. Respondents say they don't think the U.S. economy is improving. Almost 3 out of every 4 Oregon residents are also concerned about their personal finances. The poll was conducted by Davis, Hibbitts and Midgall Incorporated.

Highway 97 accidents still under investigation

State police still investigating a pair of serious injury accidents that occured about a mile apart Sunday on Highway 97 near Chiloquin. The first happened when a commerical vehicle filled with grapes drifted onto the shoulder and lost control. The driver was taken to SKy Lakes Medical Center with serious injuries. Another accident happened in the backup, when a driver failed to notice stopped traffic. Six vehicles were involved in that, and one person was flown to Bend with serious injuries.

Grand Champion Steer brings in college money

As the Tulelake-Butte Valley fair wrapped up Sunday, Hanna Gnech's 1200 pound grand champion steer brought in about $9800. She plans to use some of her earnings to buy a steer for next year's fair and save the rest for college. The top lamb brought in about $2900 and the top hog $3300.

New fires reported, fire danger high

As thunderstorms moved through the area between September 8 and 12, a number of fires were ignited by the lightening strikes. Land managed by the Fremont-Winema Forest, BLM, Lakeview District, and Oregon Dept of Forestry has been hit with 18 fires. Four of those are in Klamath County, 14 are in Lake County. Fire danger remains high and officials urge us to limit outdoor activity that could cause a spark.

Welcome home troops

After 9-11, many are still looking for a way to say thanks. Army National Guard troops are back home after serving a 13-month peace keeping mission in Iraq. Welcome Back to the 3rd and the 16th Cavs, home now in Klamath Falls.

Man arrested after trying to hide in Klamath River

A California man was arrested yesterday morning after trying to hide in the Klamath River while attempting to elude state police and the Klamath County Sheriff's office. The vehicle was pulled over for traffic violations, and during the traffic stop the State Trooper had both men outside the vehicle. 32-year old Enrique Placencia ran, got back inside the vehicle, and drove away. The car went across a golf course before being abandoned. A Fish and Wildlife trooper spotted Placencia trying to hide in marsh grass along the river, and he was taken into custody. Both Placencia and the driver were cited for possession of less than an ounce of marijuana. Placencia faces a felony attempt to elude charge, among others.

Medford man arraigned in killing

A 32-year old bartender from Central Point died a week ago of multiple stab wounds. Jessica Bethany worked at a bar in Medford. 36-year old Jeffrey Wheeler has been indicted on murder and arson charges, and also abuse of a corpse. Friends said in court that Bethany had ended her relationship with Wheeler and went on a date with another man on the night she was killed. Wheeler faces 25 years to life in prison.

Moore Park Marina to have expanded wetlands area

Moore Park Marina is about to undergo a project that's expected to improve wildlife habitat and recreation opportunities at the park. Construction is expected to begin this fall for wetlands along the Marina 1 shoreline, which is an entry point to Upper Klamath Lake. There are marsh grasses already growing there and wetland birds sometimes land there. The idea is to expand that area and restore the area to its original form.

Man survives being impaled

A southern Oregon man survived being impaled during a traffic accident on State Route 97. 28-year old Joshua Wagenblast reportedly crossed a center lane of traffic and hit a tractor trailer before colliding nearly head on with another car. A piece of wood from the tractor trailer smashed through his windshield and impaled him through the upper left chest.

Department of Corrections receives grant

The Oregon Department of Corrections has received a $600,000 grant from the Bureau of Justice Assistance. The funds will help implement the standards for the Prison Rape Elimination Act. The goal of the program is to reduce the incidence of sexual abuse in confinement environments. The Department of Corrections said in a release the funds will enhance the programs they already have in place.

Resource Advisory Council to take public input next week

The Siskiyou County Resource Advisory Committee will meet next Monday at the Klamath National Forest Supervisor’s Office, 1312 Fairlane Road, Yreka. The meeting will begin at 4:00 p.m. and usually ends before 8:00 p.m. The public is invited to attend and provide comment. The committee is a local advisory group that recommends projects to federal land managers.

Klamath National Forest has new Supervisor

Chris Frisbee is the new Deputy Forest Supervisor for the Klamath National Forest in Yreka. In 2008, she became the Ecosystem, Fire and Forests staff officer for the four National Forests in North Carolina located in Ashville. A news release says she's happy to be back in the West. Chris and her husband have six children, with two more daughters due home from China in December.

Chiloquin man sent to prison for teen's death

A Chiloquin man pleaded guilty yesterday in connection to a shooting nearly a year ago. 21-year old Ezzard Ossmus Jackson pleaded guilty to second-degree manslaughter for his involvement in an October 2010 shooting near Agency Lake that left 18-year old Troy Shane Allen dead. Jackson agreed to testify against the other two defendants in the case in exchange for the lesser sentence. He will serve nearly six years in prison.

Crews planning a few improvement projects next week

Asphalt work was done earlier this year at the airport. Next week public works crews will be doing what they call asphalt improvement work on the runway and taxi lanes. It's expected to last all week next week. Crews will also be out on city streets, painting road lanes. Drivers should be mindful of the efforts.

Gilchrist Post Office hit

Thankfully no one was hurt, and the building just suffered minor damage after a car hit the Gilchrist Post Office yesterday. State police say 73-year old Larry Whiteley was driving his pickup to get his mail and may have entered the parking lot too quickly. He drove over the sidewalk and hit the structure.

Attorney General stops in Klamath Falls

Oregon Attorney General John Kroger was in the Basin yesterday, just after he announced a bid for his second term Wednesday. The Attorney General says he'll focus on the same issues he did during his first term - things like fighting crime, consumer protections, and enforcing pollution laws.

Candidates begin to file for office

Yesterday marked the first day local candidates could file for the May primary. Klamath County Commissioner Cheryl Hukill has already begun her bid for re-election. In addition to Hukill's seat, County Commissioner Al Switzer's seat is up for grabs, plus sheriff, assessor, and surveyor. The last day to file for the primary is March 6, 2012.

Tulelake-Butte Valley Fair this weekend

The Tulelake Butte Valley Fair is underway, and if you missed the opening day yesterday you can attend anytime between now and Sunday at 8pm. California fairs lost their funding this year, but the Tulelake Fair forged ahead. They're trying "Pay what you can admission" this year, with suggested admissions at the gate, and of course they appreciate donations above and beyond that.

Tulelake-Butte Valley Fair begins

The Tulelake-Butte Valley Fair is trying something new for this year's fair. California fairs have lost 100% of their funding due to the state’s financial crisis, and that was 40 percent of Tulelake's budget. So they're trying “Pay What You Can” Admissions. They'll have a suggested daily admission of $15 for large families, and $3 to $5 for adults. The fair is today through Sunday.

Little Butte fire grows

Firefighters have made good progress, but the Butte Falls-The Little Butte Fire, burning in pine/oak in steep terrain on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, grew by 50 acres yesterday. Now over 250 acres have been scorched by the blaze. Helicopters and air tankers are being used, along with 215 firefighters on the ground. The fire started on Labor Day and the cause is under investigation.

Land use restrictions in effect

Due to the high fire danger in south central Oregon, Public Use Restrictions are in effect now and apply to lands managed by the Fremont-Winema National Forest, Bureau of Land Management’s Lakeview District, and Sheldon-Hart Mountain National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Campfires are allowed only in designated areas. Smoking is only allowed in an enclosed vehicle. Power saws are prohibited.

http://egov.oregon.gov/ODF/FIRE/precautionlevel.shtml

State police seek fugitive

Oregon State police and Crime Stoppers need the public's help looking for a fugutive who eluded police two months ago. 25-year old Jontae Raydale Mixon has a felony warrant out of Washington County for escape in the second degree and dangerous drugs. He's also wanted by State police on several charges. He's described by police as a black male about 5'10" and 140 pounds with a tattoo on his left arm, wrist, and chest. Crimestoppers is offering a $1000 reward.

Man sentenced for probation violation

This week 46-year old Duane Foster Jr, of Klamath Falls was found to be in violation of his probation and was sentenced him to 18 months in prison. He had been on probation since last July, charged with assaulting a victim. He violated the terms of his probation by changing his address without informing his Probation Officer, not obeying all laws, and not abiding by the direction of his Probation Officer. DA Ed Caleb says he has prior convictions.

Jeld-Wen not bankrupt

The Oregonian newspaper repoted Jeld-Wen could face bankruptcy, but Jeld Wen spokesperson Teri Cline says that's unfounded. The Herald and News reports Cline said the company has more than adequate cash and liquidity to conduct business as usual. The bankruptcy story arose over a delay in the sale of $575 million in bonds.

Schulz trial gets underway

Jury selection began yesterday in the murder trial of Daniel Schulz. He's accused of shooting and killing Barton Beddes last November 2010. Schultz originally called for medical help for Beddes, but an investigation pointed to Schulz as the shooter. Modoc County District Attorney Christopher Brooke and defense attorney Jordan Funk are tentatively scheduled to give opening statements sometime today.

Gems will have three players return, get other commitments

The Klamath Falls Gems have their first group of player commitments for the 2012 season. The initial group of 15 include three returnees from the 2011 Gems squad. That's Patrick O'Rourke, Nick Miller, and Graham Saiko. Klamath Falls native and former American Legion Falcons star outfielder Seth Brown is among the new signees. Brad Clontz has been signed as assistant head coach.

Group seeks donation for military care packages

Care packages are going to Kingsley Field airmen stationed overseas. The Klamath County Republican Women are sending the packages this month and again in November. Items needed include things like beef jerkey, protein bars, and books. Anyone can take items to Living Faith Fellowship, 4549 Homedale Road. Monetary donations are welcome too.

Officials look to revitalize downtown

Klamath Falls' industrial district has 321 lots, and a study this summer showed a third of those are vacant. The Herald and News reports city planners have started a long-term process to revitalize the area, and recognize the need for it now with changes in development codes. Code requires as businesses change, existing sites change for the better with new sidewalkss, streetlights, and landscaping. Further studies are underway over how to best make that happen.

Grand jury hearing possible in Friday night shooting

Prosecutors will hear details today from the Klamath County Sheriff's Office after a Friday night shooting in the 1800 block of Arthur Street. So far no one has been charged. A victim was treated for superficial wounds at Sky Lakes Medical Center. The incident was reportedly over an altercation between neighbors, but no further details have come out because the ongoing investigation.

Treasurer cleared in criminal investigation

Klamath County treasurer Mike Long has been cleared of criminal misconduct in the investigation over county funds. The word came from the Department of Justice in a letter to county leaders. The investigation started almost a year ago, about an unexplained $5 million liability and $7 million asset record.

Jeld-

We've heard it before, that nothing much should change for Jeld-Wen as it restructures, and now we hear it again. Naming rights at Jeld-Wen Field shouldn’t be affected. A multi-year deal is in place for Jeld-Wen Field, and a Portland Timbers official says they're happy with it. Nothing is expected to change there.

Farmers do well this year

Some good news for agriculture. U.S. farm income is expected to jump 31 percent this year to a record $103.6 billion because of higher crop and livestock prices. In Klamath County, farmers are expected to achieve 2008 levels, which saw commodity sales at $301 million.

Scam involves fake representatives of telecomm companies

Another scam alert. At least one person in Klamath County has gotten a call about the merger of Qwest and Century Link. The person calling told the man he qualified for a special lower rate because of the merger and asked for personal information, including the last four digits of his social security number. If you've received a similar call you can report it to Century Link.

541-388-5351

Man sentenced on weapons charge

24-year old Jason Wade Carson has been sentenced to more than a year in prison for illegally owning a firearm. The charges came after he mistakenly discharged it in a public restroom at a Main Street building. He was also sentenced to almost three years in prison for assaulting someone with a wooden bat.

Soliz trial delayed

27-year old Dallas Soliz has been charged with attempted murder and first degree assault after a man was stabbed ten times in the back a year ago. The trial for Soliz was scheduled to begin this week, but a request to continue the trial was granted. A Klamath County Circuit Court judge will reschedule it Tuesday.

Trial to start after Labor Day for Alturas man

The trial begins Tuesday for an Alturas man accused of killiing a man living on his property. It was last November that 59-year old Daniel Schulz was arrested after 48-year old Barton Beddes was shot. Schulz had called authorities and told them Beddes needed medical help. Beddes was found dead with a shotgun wound to his neck. The defense says Schulz acted in self-defense after Beddes beat him.

Museum vandalized

Damage was discovered at the Klamath County Museums yesterday morning. A front window at the Baldwin Hotel Museum was vandalized, perhaps by a bullet. Volunteers with the museum discovered it. Repairs are estimated at about $300.

Fight puts Eastern Oregon prison on lockdown

A fight broke out between inmates in the Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution West Dining Room yesterday and spilled out onto the West Compound. A few inmantes suffered minor injuries. Staff had to use chemical spray to stop the fight and thirteen inmates were taken to disciplinary segregation. The complex is on lockdown, so visitors to call ahead before planning a weekend visit to see if it’s been lifted.

Good maintenance saves fuel

The Alliance to Save Energy figured out the average U.S. household will spend about $3,325 on gasoline this year - about $625 more than last year. Gas prices this Labor Day weekend average around $3.60 across the US, which is a dollar higher than this time last year. Things like getting a proper tuneup, keeping tires properly inflated, and avoiding agressive driving can increase fuel efficiency.

Oregon has new State Fire Marshal

Mark Wallace was sworn in this week as Oregon State Fire Marshal. Wallace was selected from a pool of qualified candidates to replace retired State Fire Marshal Randy Simpson. Wallace is a 42 year fire service veteran who will oversee everything from community education to emergency planning and response.