Lake County Post Offices Avoid Closure

The U-S Postal Service's five-month moritorium on rural post office closures is giving new life to small facilities in Lake County. The Postal Service says it will NOT close post offices in Fort Rock and Summer Lake, among others. They're among twenty smaller Oregon post offices that had been scheduled to close and will now have extended lives. Moves are afoot in Washington D-C to keep it that way. Oregon's two Senators sponsoring the Protecting Rural Post Offices Act that would prohibit closing post offices which are more than 10 miles from another facility.

State police arrest man after Highway 97 wreck

20-year old Chet Newell of Klamath Falls crashed into the back of a GMC pickup yesterday on Highway 97 near Midland, and caused the pickup to hit an injured pedestrian, and a good samaritan who had stopped to help. The pedestrian and samaritan were taken to Sky Lakes Medical Center with serious injuries. Newell faces DUII charges in addition to assault and reckless endangering.

Christmas isn't very white

Surely you've noticed there hasn't been much snow in the Basin yet. It's the driest December on record, with just a trace amount of snow for the month in Klamath Falls We usually have over an inch and a half by now. Meteorologists are still confident the snow will come this winter, but it may be later rather than sooner. For now, snowpack is 40 to 60 percent below average.

AQ Advisory changed to GREEN

Today's Air Quality Advisory was initially set to yellow, but improving conditions late yesterday have changed that to Green. Outdoor or open burning is still prohibited county wide, and voilations result in a $720 fine.

Man arrested for threatening mother with knife

55-year old Jeffrey Mark Houston is in the Klamath County jail after being accused of holidng a knife to his mother's throat. Klamath Falls police say it was an argument over money that escalated to the arrest. Houston has been charged with second degree assault, harassment, and menacing. Houston's mother had a cut on the hand, but refused medical treatment.

State Police seek witnesses to Highway 97 accident

Oregon State Police are looking for witnesses to the accident yesterday mornning on Highway 97 just south of Midland. The accident injured three people and had Highway 97 closed for a time. A pedestrian was struck by an unidentified vehilce, and police are specifically looking for information on that vehicle. A good samaritan was also hurt.

541-776-6111

Hustlin Owls are the Team of the Week

The Oregon Tech men's basketball team is off to a stellar start this season, with a 14-1 record and ranked third. After wins last week over College of Idaho and Eastern Oregon, the Hustlin' Owls have been named the Cascade Collegiate conference's Verizon Team of the Week. Tech ran its win streak to 11 straight, and has taken over sole possession of first place in the CCC standings.

Talent man dies from burns

31-year old Steven Christopher Kilcollins has died after suffering severe burns at the Talent skate park Friday. Police say he was burned when he entered a restroom carrying a can of gasoline. He was seen running from the restroom a few minutes later. He died Saturday at Legacy Oregon Burn Center in Portland.

ODOT seeks input on new interchange

Now is the time to provide input on the Oregon 66/US 97 interchange. The Oregon Dept of Transportation is collaborating with Klamath County and the City of Klamath Falls to come up with a plan for how the area will look in the future. Currently street connectivity, safety, and access issues will be replaced in the future with new mobility and bicycle and pedestrian facilities. A public workshop is set for tonight at 6:30pm in County Commissioner hearing room 219 at the Government Center, 305 Main Street in Klamath Falls.

Man sent to prison after altercation with his girlfriend

28-year old Gabriel Ramirez has been sentenced to over two years in prison for Coercion, Assault in the Fourth Degree-Domestic Violence, and Strangulation. The court also sentenced Ramirez to two and a half years for violating his probation on another domestic violence case, in which DA Ed Caleb says Ramirez caused physical injury to his girlfriend. Ramirez also has convictions for Identity Theft, Attempted Kidnapping in the First Degree and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.

Man sent to prison for probation violation

District Attorney Ed Caleb says 47-year old Jimmy Joe James, will serve two years in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm. James was arrested when the Klamath County Sheriff's Office went to his address to arrest him for a probation violation. The officers found two weapons in his home; a short-barreled shotgun and a fully automatic rifle.

OIT basketball gets 11th straight win

The OIT men's basketball team continues their great season, ranked number three and picking up another win Saturday at #23 Eastern Oregon, 81-71. The Owls are 14-1 on the season and 4-0 in the conference. This is the 11th straight win for the Owls, and four straight over Eastern Oregon. OIT has a break now for Christmas and will host #17 Warner Pacific College December 29th.

More donations needed for DAV van

So far, organizers of an effort to replace the Disabled American Veterans van have collected $4,000. Donations are still needed, and can be mailed to the Klamath County Veterans Services Office.

123 N. Fourth St. Klamath Falls, OR 97601.

Checks should be made payable to Wheels for our Warriors. All donations are tax deductible.

Lakeview agrees to raises

Three unions in Lakeview represent the town's 17 employees. The town has reached an agreement with those unions that will give a 2.8 percent pay increase to employees retroactive to July 1.

Court dates set for those accused in assault

A January 12 trial has been set for two of three men accused of assaulting Klamath County resident Brian Tackitt a month ago. 25-year old JD Callahan Cobb, and 24-yera old Steven Wise have pleaded not guilty to charges including first-degree assault, burglary, and conspiracy to commit burglary. 28-year old Daryle Dean Colbert is the third defendant and is scheduled for a pre-trial hearing January 3.

Anonymous donor leaves valuable piece for Salvation Army

A Salvation Army Bell Ringer got a surprise this week outside the Klamath Falls Fred Meyer store. He found a one ounce silver coin in his kettle, stored neatly in a plastic pouch. Debbie with the Salvation Army stopped by the Basin Mediactive radio stations to share the news.






The Salvation Army thanks Klamath County for generosity throughout the year.

Malin police contract on hold

Earlier this week we told you of a contract between Malin and Bonanza for police services. Under the contract, Malin would provide 40 hours a month of law enforcement services. That's on hold now until the Bonanza town attorney can review the contract.

Klamath Union sued over band injury

A student at Klamath Union High School was reportedly hit in the eye with a drum stick during band class, and the boy's parents are suing the band teacher and the school for more than $300,000 for pain and suffering, medical bills, and loss of future revenue. The suit claims the teacher, Drew Langley, left the classroom unattended and two students wrestled over a drumstick while he was gone. It traveled across the room and hit Scott Kleeman in the left eye.

La Pine City Manager position still open

La Pine is still looking for a City Manager. Rick Allen is the interim manager, and says the city is looking at all different backgrounds, with both business and government experience. The City of La Pine has about ten applicants they plan to narrow down to four or five. They'll conduct interviews after the first of the year and hope to hire someone by February.

AQ Advisory RED through noon

The air quality is still unhealthy for sensitive groups. The Air Quality Advisory through noon today is RED, meaning only pellet stoves may be used. Outdoor and open burning is still prohibited, and enforcement patrols are out, looking to pass out $720 fines.

Fourth grade basketball tryouts tonight

All fourth grade boys in the Klamath County or Klamath City Schools are invited to try-out for the Boy’s Basin 4th Grade All Star Basketball Team tonight. The Try-out will be held at BBC from 5:30 – 7:00 pm. Please bring your own basketball.

Please call Todd Moore at 541-281-7835 if you have any questions.

Chiropractor has license suspended

Klamath Falls chiropractor Scott Wallace has had his license suspended for two years for having sexual relationships with several of his patients. He also has to pay a $2500 penalty, take ethics training, and have a chaperone when working with female patients in the future.

More jail options considered

The Public Safety Advisory Committee continues to present ways to efficiently operate the Klamath County Jail. One option involves all three pods plus a work release facility. Another option involves privatizing the jail or portions of it, or contracting with another jail that might rent bed space. The committee is working on putting a price tag on these options and then will present it to the larger group after the holidays. The next full committee meeting is January 12.

Public tour of jail offered Thursday

Along with the Public Safety Advisory Committee, the Klamath County Sheriff's office is offering a tour of the jail Thursday at 1pm. Anyone wanting to attend can email Sheriff@co.klamath.or.us to fill out the paper work. The Public Safety Committee will tour the facility as part of its effort to help come up with ways to operate the jail.

Klamath Falls gets good rating from Standard and Poors

Every two years Standard and Poors announces bond ratings, and the City of Klamath Falls gets an A+ rating and a Stable Outlook. The city's management practices are considered good, and the stable outlook reflects Standard and Poors' view that proactive changes to operations and a strong available general fund position remain. A copy of the Bond Rating along with the letter of transmittal can be found on the City’s website http://www.ci.klamath-falls.or.us under the Finance Department.

Basin Mediactive hires new General Sales Manager

Basin Mediactive, LLC, has hired Scott Allen as General Sales Manager. Allen brings more than 20 years in the radio business, as he returns to manage the same group of stations he led through the 1990's and into 2000's. Allen says he's thrilled to be back, and General Manager Rob Siems says Allen's commitment to the community and helping area businesses grow will fit right in with the objectives of current staff.

Man subdued after showing off sword

A man had to be subdued by police yesterday after brandishing a sword near Shasta Way and South Sixth Street. Officers said he was doing a martial arts routine and encouraged officers to shoot him. He eventually had to be subdued with pepper spray. He hasn't been charged with a crime, but is being psychologically evaluated.

Local government wants more input on federal issues

Jackson County is now the first county in Oregon to require local input on federal decisions that could affect Southern Oregon. The county commissioners there have come up with what they call a coordination plan, that requires local input anytime plans are made in Washington D.C. This will have special impact as wilderness areas are designated. Klamath County is working on a coordination plan of their own.

Three face charges after traffic stop

Oregon State Police arrested three people from Klamath Falls Saturday morning after a traffic stop. 29-year old Matthew M. Crounse, of Klamath Falls was arrested after he fled. He's charged with resisting arrest, interfering with a police officer and attempt to elude on foot. Two others, 24-year old Michael Wayne Farrar, and 20-year old Katie Ann Cooper, also of Klamath Falls, were arrested at that home, and police say they were wanted on outstanding warrants. Farrar was also charged for possession of methamphetamine.

Klamath Basin sees more doctors moving in

More medical professionals are coming to the Klamath Basin. The Herald and News reports a down construction industry, and manufacturing and retail industries that have struggled, leads to fewer private sector jobs, but over the past year health services and education are the two brigh spots that posted gains. Sky Lakes Medical Center has been active in recruiting new private practice doctors and support staff.

AQ Advisory back to green

Good news...after several days of RED air quality advisories, we're back to green. Within the air quality zone, all woodstoves, pellet stoves, and fireplaces can be used through noon today. Open burning is still prohibited county wide.

OIT basketball player earns recognition

An Oregon Tech player earns an honor. Kyle Gomez has been named the Cascade Conference Player of the week in basketball. Gomez is a senior from Bly who averaged 30 points and 5 rebounds last week as the Hustlin' Owls took two games from Johnson and Wales. Gomez shot an unreal 79 percent from the floor.

VFW to host Santa

The VFW Pelican Post 1383 is having a Children's Christmas Party on Sunday December 18th. Santa will be there of course, and if you bring in a gift with your child's name on it, Santa himself will call up the child and present it to them. Along with the gift giving, there will be a raffle for two bicycles and a handmade doll. Tickets for the raffle can be purchased at the VFW through Saturday. Doors open at 2 Saturday.

La Pine fight send two to hospital

Two were hospitalized after a fight involving about twenty people broke out in La Pine. Officers in Deschutes County got reports Thursday night of a man throwing a glass bottle at a moving car. Things escalated to a fight involving several people, and it took more than a dozen officers to break it up. The investigation continues.

Toys for Tots needs more donations

Toys for Tots reports their donations are down this year, compared to 2010. Toys collected so far are less than 50 percent of what they need. The Klamath Falls chapter passes out three to five thousand toys each year in the Klamath Basin. Because many families have fallen on hard times, the Herald and News reports over 70 percent of the applications this year were from families that don't normally request help.

Local woman says she was sexually assaulted

A Portland area man is spending time at the Klamath County Jail on charges that include rape, strangulation and sexual abuse. 24-year old Charles Lee Bass was arrested Saturday after a Friday incident at the victim's home. Others left after a social gathering Thursday night, but Bass reportedly stayed behind and raped the victim. She was not injured, but was medically evaluated at Sky Lakes Medical Center. The investigation is ongoing.

Local company to get part of Wells Fargo settlement

Wells Fargo will pay $148.2 million to settle federal and state charges that it rigged bidding competitions to win business from cities and counties. Wachovia was the company investigated - Wells Fargo acquired Wachovia in 2008. Oregon will receive $220,000 from the settlement, most of which will go to Merle West Medical Center in Klamath Falls, according to the Oregon Department of Justice.

Area Transportation Projects Vie For Lottery Funds

Five projects in Klamath and Lake COunties are among seventy applications received by the state for lottery-funded transportation projects. The proposals include $2.7 million to construct Brett Way, a side street along the Southside Expressway, in Klamath Falls. Another proposal would repair deteriorated railroad track's on the Southern Pacific line connecting Lakeview and Alturas. Also included: upgrades at Klamath Falls, Lakeview and Malin airports.

Timber plan in the works

A proposal is in the works from U.S. Reps. - Republican Greg Walden, and Democrats Peter Defazio and Kurt Schrader of Oregon. The three say they were developing a plan that would balance the need to produce timber revenue and protect Oregon's forests. The plan could split up timberland once owned by railroads, preserving half and using the rest for timber production.

Burn to Learn cancelled

Because of the stagnant air, Klamath County Fire District #1 has cancelled the scheduled Live Fire Training for today. They hope to reschedule.

Food Bank encourages volunteers

The Klamath and Lake Counties Food Bank says the need for assistance is up about 30 percent this year, and there are many ways to help.






Executive Director Niki Sampson says many families come through her doors that have been hit with job losses and other hardships. Volunteers and donations are always welcome. http://klamathfoodbank.org

Local man sentenced to five years

24-year old Joshua David Hamilton was sentenced this week to five years in prison for first degree burglary and Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle. District Attorney Ed Caleb also says Hamilton received 13 months for a separate count of Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle. Hamilton has a lengthy arrest and conviction record that includes Tampering With Drug Records, Failure to Appear and several probation violations.

AQ Advisory is RED

The Air Quality advisory continues to sit at the RED level. Only pellet stoves can be used through noon today. Enforcement patrols are out, ready to pass out $720 fines to those who violate the countywide burn ban. The National Weather Service has extended an air stagnation advisory to last through December 9th and may continue into Sunday.

Taylor withdraws in State Rep. race

Klamath Falls City Council member Greg Taylor has announced he'll withdraw from the race for state representative. Taylor says he believes his biggest impact can be at the local level. That leaves Gail Whitsett and Tracey Liskey running for the seat.

Public comment period open on critical habitat for endangered fish

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has released a proposed critical habitat for the Lost River and shortnose sucker. A lawsuit by the group Oregon Wild led to the necessary designations. The new proposal asks that over 241,000 acres be considered critical habitat for suckers. Public comments will be accepted through February 6.

VFW still looking for chili entries

VFW Pelican Post 1383 is still looking for contestants for its chili cookoff. The event doesn't happen until February 4, but they need contestants now. Prizes will be given for the best chili of course, and they'll even have awards for the most festive, best decorated area.

To enter, contact the VFW with your name, phone and "Team Name".

(541)882-0057
vfwpost1383@hotmail.com

Local non profit wins a truck

Badger Run Wildlife Rehab is a non profit group that cares for and treast injured and orphaned wildlife. The group is one of 100 winners in Toyota's nationwide 100 Cars for Good program, and they'll get the keys to a 2012 Toyota Tundra truck during a presentation at Lithia Toyota of Klamath Falls on Washburn Way tomorrow at 11am. A public vote helped Badger Run Wildlife Rehab win the new truck.

Sewer rates to increase in January

Sewer rates are going up beginning in January. An 8.9 percent increase was approved by the City of Klamath Falls this week, which the public works department says is necessary to start funding repairs and improvements on the wastewater treatment plant, which is 50 years old now. A 17 percent increase was approved two years ago but was delayed because of the economy. This hike is about half of that.

School offers Christmas trees as fundraiser

If you don't have your Christmas tree yet, Henley High school is a good place to get it. Fresh local fir trees are $25 and wreaths are $20. In addition to Henley High school, you can get the trees at Big R Store on South 6th Street and the Grange Co-op on Washburn Way. Proceeds help fund FFA trips and activities at the school.

Air Quality Advisory changes to RED

The National Weather Service has extended the Air Stagnation Advisory through December 9th. An Air quality rating of 100 is the start of the unhealthy range, and we've had 98 in the past 24 hours. Within the Air Quality zone, only pellet stoves may be used and that's in effect through noon tomorrow. Outdoor or Open Burning is prohibited Countywide. Enforcement Patrols are out and violations will result in a $720 fine.

For a map of the Air Quality Zone and other information, CONSULT OUR WEBSITE AT http://www.co.klamath.or.us then click on Environmental Health. The Advisory is now on the internet at www.klamathair.org

Vigil held for drunk driving victims and families

If you noticed the lights and glow last night, it was to honor drunk driving victims. The Klamath County DUII Task Force held its annual victims vigil last night and several speakers delivered their own stories. The crowd also raised awareness in the fight against drunk and distracted driving.

Man sentenced for assault

Edward Allen Klee was sentenced recently to 70 months in prison for Attempted Assault in the Second Degree and Assault in the Third Degree, related to an incident September 30. Klee was charged along with Michelle Lifvendahl for assaulting the victim. DA Ed Caleb's office says Klee has a criminal history that includes Resisting Arrest, Evading a Police Officer, Vandalism, Disorderly Conduct and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana.

Forestry meeting to cover fire protection

A group will gather tomorrow to talk about changes in land classifications pertaining to forest fire protection. The Klamath county forestland classification committee meets at 10am Wednesday at the Oregon Department of Forestry in Klamath Falls.

Nominations open for Athlete of the Month

Klamath Union’s Alisha Luna and Mazama’s Paul Adams are the 960 Sports Legend and Charter Student Athletes of the Month. Each student gets an Applebee’s gift certificate as well as a savings bond from Legacy Furniture/Bedroom Gallery

The Charter Student Athletes of the Month are selected by 960 the Sports
Legend from nominations by the community, athletic directors and/or
knowledge of athletic achievements. Please send nominations for your
selection to sports@mybasin.com.

Athletes of the Month recognized for November

960 the Sports Legend and Charter have announced the Charter Student Athletes of the Month for November. Klamath Union’s Alisha Luna and Mazama’s (Mah zah mah) Paul Adams each get the honor. Luna is a two-sport athlete at Klamath Union High School in cross country and soccer, who placed first at the OSAA Cross Country State Championships a month ago. Adams also had a first place finish at the Cross Country State Championships and improved his time by about a minute from 2010.

Food Bank recognizes kids for their volunteer efforts

The Klamath and Lake Counties food bank has recognized several locals for their hard work this year. Awards were given out Saturday night, including the Kids Helping Kids award.






Executive director Niki Sampton tells us Jarred and Lahna Degroot were recognized, along with Justice Reinhard.

Klamath County seeing fewer visitors

If bed taxes are any indication, tourism has been down in Klamath County since July. July was actually a great month, but collections of the tax charged for hotel rooms, bed and breakfasts, and campsites have been down since. The Klamath County Board of Commissioners last week approved the distribution of the transient room tax for July through September. The tax funds tourism, museums, the Klamath County Fairgrounds, among other things.

Solar panels going up in Lake County

The Oregon Military Department is installing 500 solar panels on roofs of existing buildings near Christmas Valley in Lake county. Funding for the project is from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act through the Oregon Department of Energy. The solar panels will produce enough energy to power 21 homes.

Comissioners give audits the green light

Klamath County Commissioner have approved contracts for audits that will comb over records of Klamath County government finances, the Library service district, the employee pension fund, the treasurer's investment portfolio, and the Klamath County Drainage Service District. The annual audit is due January 1.

VFW looking for chili cooks

The VFW Pelican Post 1383 is having a Chili Throw Down on Saturday February 4th and they're looking for chili cooks now. Categories will be People's Choice, Judge's Choice, and Best Overall. There will be cash prizes, with proceeds for the entry fees benefitting the VFW.

If you are interested in being a contestant and would like more detail about the event, please contact the VFW via e-mail at vfwpost1383@hotmail.com or call 541-882-0057. There will be a limited amount of contestants, so reserve your spot early.

Opinions needed on Motorized Trails at Fremont-Winema Forest

The Fremont-Winema National Forest is launching a Destination Motorized Trail Project to evaluate development of a system of motorized trails for use by off-highway vehicle users. The goal of this project is to develop an economically and environmentally sustainable motorized trail system. The first Listening Session happens Tuesday, Dec. 6 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Oregon Institute of Technology (OlT) in the College Union's Mazama/Scott Conference Room.

Charter boosts residential internet speeds

Here's an astounding number. A recent study shows the number of devices connected to IP networks will be double the global population in 2015. Charter Communications is preparing, and has increased its internet speed for the fourth time at no cost to customers. Download speeds have increased considerably, and upload speeds have at least doubled on the most popular internet tiers.

Charter increases internet speed for businesses

Charter has increased it's internet speeds for the fourth time at no charge to residential customers. For businesses, they've increased commercial speeds for the third time since 2010 on two popular tiers. The free speed increase helps 95 percent of Charter’s Internet service area nationwide.

OIT basketball fans encouraged to participate in Blackout

Oregon Tech men and women basketball teams will host Northwest Christian this Saturday in OIT's first-ever "Black Out for Hunger. Oregon Tech fans are asked to dress in all black and bring a non perishable food donation for the Klamath-Lake Counties food bank. Anyone who donates to the food bank will have a chance to win a $250 jewelry gift certificate.

Library to get new location

Two buildings at the corner of Summers Lane and Winter Avenue will become the new South Suburban branch of the Klamath County Library. The current branch in the Town and Country shopping center needs more space - for more children's activities and computers - and this move will be the result of a five year search. The $210,000 purchase was approved by Klamath County Commissioners this week. The new spot may not be ready to open until 2013.

Ski resorts wait on snow

Mt Shasta is one of those waiting on snow. The resort was originally scheduled to open yesteraday, but they now say mid December. And forecasters say the weather systems won't cooperate with the resorts for another few weeks, with no major snow accumulations expected. For the most part it will stay cold and dry.

AQ Advisory is Green with changes expected

The Air Quality advisory is officially green through noon today, but unofficially, it appears things could be changing for the weekend. Air stagnation is expected this weekend through early next week, and in that case the alert would change to red. We'll keep you updated.

City schools faced with budget-related choices

A $20.5 million renovation proposal will be before the Klamath Falls City school board December 12 that will include electrical and roof repairs. The facility plan also aims to reduce the size of Klamath Union High School by removing unused portions of the building and eliminating some hallways and staircases. The plans would also close one of the district's five elementary schools.

School tries some different technology

Mills Elementary is getting robots. The school recently received a $10,000 grant for the Lego robots, and students will come up with ways robots might help solve local and more global issues. The robots will arrive at the school sometime after Christmas.

Candlelight vigil planned Monday

The Klamath County DUII Task Force will be holding a candlelight vigil - the 22nd annual - to remember those who have lost loved ones or friends to drunk driving crashes. The event will be held Monday December 5 at 5:30 P. M. in the lobby of the Courthouse at 316 Main Street. Victims, survivors and community members are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Industrial property values on the decline

The value of industrial property in Klamath County is down by twenty percent in the past year. That's saw mills, manufacturing plants, and the like. Companies like Jeld-Wen and Aqua Glass are paying less in taxes, but that means groups that depend on the taxes have less to work with. Some of the biggest industrial properties have lost more than half their value in the last four years.

Whooping cough cases reported

Health officials are warning about whooping cough. Four cases have been reported in Josephine County, and all cases have been in kids under the age of 13, from four different families. Those at high risk, including pregnant women in the third trimester, and infants, are encouraged to get the pertussis vaccine.