The latest and most comprehensive coverage of local News, Sports, Business, and Community News stories in the Klamath Basin, Southern Oregon and around the state of Oregon from Wynne Broadcasting’s KFLS News/Talk 1450AM / 102.5FM, The Herald and News, and BasinLife.com, and powered by Mick Insurance. Call them at 541-882-6476.

 

Friday, June 6, 2025

Klamath Basin Weather

Celebrate 25 years of the Klamath County Library Service District Through Sunday, August 31st, 2025

CALLING ALL VENDORS FOR THE 2024 CHI-TOWN FAMILY FESTIVAL

Vendor Registration Closes Friday, June 13

The City of Chiloquin is excited to welcome back vendors for the 4^th Annual Chi-Town Family Festival, happening Friday, June 27, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM and Saturday, June 28, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the Chiloquin Rodeo & Event Grounds on Highway 97.

We invite farmers, crafters, artists, food vendors, nonprofits, and local businesses to join us in celebrating community and summer fun at this free, family-friendly event. The festival features live music, food, water slides, bounce houses, a bike rodeo, a mobile escape room, and a vibrant market and craft fair that showcases our region’s talents and offerings.

Vendor booths are 12’x12’ with setup beginning at noon on Friday and 8:00 AM on Saturday. Additional details and guidelines are available at www.chi-townfamilyfestival.com.

The last day to sign up as a vendor is Friday, June 13. Join us in making this event an unforgettable celebration for the entire community!

More information is available at https://chi-townfamilyfestival.com.

 

KINGSLEY FIELD, Oregon – Thunderbirds scheduled to perform at Klamath Falls airshow

The 173^rd Fighter Wing will welcome back the U.S. Air Force’s premier aerial demonstration team, the Thunderbirds, for the Wings and Eagles Airshow and Kingsley Field Open House, July 19-20, 2025. 

“The Wings and Eagles Airshow will showcase the Thunderbirds, with one aircraft being flown by a previous Kingsley F-15 instructor pilot,” said Col. Lee Bouma, 173^rd Fighter Wing commander.  This will be the first time since 2008 that the Thunderbirds have been featured in Southern Oregon. 

The public is invited to enjoy a wide variety of civilian and military performers, which will be announced at a later date, and admission is free.  

“Please mark your calendar and come share the weekend with us, enjoying military aviation,” said Bouma.  “This is one way we can give back to our amazing community that supports us so well.”

The Wings and Eagles Airshow will be held in conjunction with the Sentry Eagle air-to-air combat exercise, one of the Air National Guard’s largest air-to-air exercises.  This exercise provides military pilots of the National Guard, Active Duty and Reserve components a forum in which to test their flying skills.

Additional information will be shared on the 173rd Fighter Wing website at https://www.173fw.ang.af.mil/ and on the wing’s social media pages. 

For more information about the Wings and Eagles Airshow or the Sentry Eagle air-to-air combat exercise contact the 173rd FW Public Affairs Office at (541) 885-6677.

 

Around the State of Oregon

MISSING CHILD ALERT

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office is currently conducting an investigation into the disappearance of a 12-year-old girl from Eagle Point.

Taylor Pool is approximately 5 feet 2 inches tall, weighs around 100 pounds, and has reddish-brown hair along with hazel eyes. She was last observed on May 15 in the vicinity of Rogue River Drive in Eagle Point. She left of her own accord and was subsequently dropped off in McKinleyville, California.

Authorities believe she remains in McKinleyville but is also known to visit Crescent City, Arcata, and Loleta. Anyone possessing information is encouraged to contact the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office tip line at 541-774-8333.

 

The FBI’s Portland Field Office, in collaboration with local law enforcement agencies, apprehended a juvenile from Columbia County, Oregon, who had plotted to execute an improvised explosive attack and a mass shooting at the Three Rivers Mall in Kelso, Washington, on May 22, 2025.

The minor, whose identity will remain confidential to protect their privacy, was taken into custody on the morning of May 22, 2025, by deputies from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office.

The comprehensive and imminent attack plans were communicated to the FBI on May 19, 2025. In response, the FBI promptly coordinated with its partners to identify the individual responsible for the threat. The suspect was identified the following day, May 20, as a juvenile resident of Columbia County who expressed nihilistic violent extremist beliefs and shared the attack plans in online discussions.

For public safety reasons, the suspect was placed under court-sanctioned surveillance, and a federal search warrant was executed on May 22, 2025, prior to the arrest. The suspect exhibited both the intent and capability to execute their plan, which included specific details such as a map of the mall, a designated route for the shooter, a strategy to deploy an improvised explosive device, commonly referred to as a chlorine bomb, to create chaos, and subsequently to shoot mall visitors as they exited the movie theater, ultimately intending to take their own life at a predetermined location within the mall.

A concerning number of indicators pointed to a clear trajectory towards violence; at no stage in this plan did it appear that the suspect would refrain from carrying out their intentions.

 

The town of Lakeview faces the threat of a shutdown, with 3½ public safety positions jeopardized due to the financial crisis it is currently experiencing.

This situation is partially attributed to mismanagement, unpaid bills, and budgetary misallocation under the previous town manager. The town is actively seeking solutions to sustain itself until November, when property tax revenues are expected to arrive. During a regular session on May 27, the council approved a 55.2% increase in water rates for residents within Lakeview’s boundaries.

Town Manager Shiela Strubel indicated that the town might soon face closure due to insufficient funds. Throughout the work and regular sessions, several council members, along with Lakeview Mayor Kevin Sims, emphasized the necessity of raising water rates within the town. The new water system facility, currently under construction, must be completed by August 2026 to comply with the terms of the grant that primarily finances the project.

Strubel clarified that a 55% increase in residents’ water bills would result in an average rise of $9.59 per household. Nearly half of this increase would be allocated to a contingency loan payment for the new water system, while the remaining funds would be directed towards repairs and maintenance of the system.

A contingency loan is essential for the water system because the accepted bid for the project exceeded the initially projected costs.

Should the town fail to cover the excess expenses, it would need to approach Business Oregon, the agency overseeing the grant, to inform them that it could not fulfill the grant requirements. This would jeopardize the completion of the water treatment facility and could result in the town having to reimburse funds that have already been utilized.

 

Victims of child sexual abuse or sexual assault will have an unlimited timeframe to file lawsuits against their abusers, as well as against institutions that facilitated the abuse, according to a bill that received overwhelming and often emotional support in the Oregon House on Thursday.

House Bill 3582 aims to align Oregon with a growing number of states that are either expanding or abolishing statutes of limitations for civil actions related to sexual assault or child sexual abuse.  Currently, under existing law, individuals who experienced sexual abuse during childhood must file claims by the age of 40, or within five years of when they establish a link between the abuse and the harms they have endured, whichever period is longer.

Adult victims of sexual assault have a five-year window from the time they recognize a connection between the assault and the harms they have faced.

 

A Republican tax legislation has been approved by the U.S. House and is now moving towards a Senate vote, that reduce federal Medicaid funding nationwide — affecting states like Oregon that prioritize inclusive health care policies according to Oregon officials.

Oregon depends on over $11 billion in federal funding annually to finance approximately 75% of its Medicaid program, referred to as the Oregon Health Plan. Mostly however, the federal government agency of DOGE has found incredible waste, fraud and abuse of the Medicare system, and many in Congress say the panicking by liberal states and Demcrats is unfounded in this matter.

If the Republican tax legislation is enacted, this funding could potentially be reduced by more than half, as stated by Oregon State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner. State officials warn that the bill could also result in hundreds of thousands of low-income residents in Oregon losing their health insurance.

Proponents of the bill argue that it will provide substantial tax reductions, enhance immigration security, and implement welfare reforms.

As usual, officials in Oregon have criticized the bill as financially irresponsible, claiming it serves to penalize states that offer Medicaid irrespective of citizenship status, as well as patients seeking gender-affirming care and reproductive health services, including abortion.

Currently, the benefits of the Oregon Health Plan remain unchanged, and the Oregon Health Authority is in the process of evaluating the potential effects of the bill.

 

A pair of recent reports from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) indicate that health care costs are continuing to rise at a rate that outpaces both the state and national economies.

In response, a new committee is being established to explore effective strategies for making health care more affordable for residents of Oregon.

One of the reports highlights that in 2024, 14.5% of Oregonians postponed or avoided seeking health care due to financial constraints. This trend was particularly pronounced in Southwest Oregon, where approximately one in five individuals delayed care, with dental services being the most frequently deferred across the state.

The second report reveals that total health care spending from 2022 to 2023 surpassed the state’s target of 3.4% by the largest margin since the OHA began tracking data for the Sustainable Health Care Cost Growth Target program in 2018.

The Oregon Health Policy Board, which is a citizen-led organization overseeing the OHA, is in the process of forming the Committee on Health Care Affordability along with its associated Industry Advisory Committee. The board plans to appoint the initial members of both committees during its meeting on June 10, which will also feature the annual public hearing for the Health Care Cost Growth Target program.

Members of the public are encouraged to voice their concerns and share their experiences regarding health care costs at this hearing. Written testimony can be submitted via email or individuals can register to speak at HealthCare.CostTarget@oha.oregon.gov.

 

A 49-year-old woman is confronting several drug-related charges following the seizure of 2,500 pounds of illegal marijuana from her vehicle by Siskiyou County deputies. Deputies apprehended Felicia Maria Aviles from North Highlands, California, last Thursday in relation to the transportation of illegal substances.

Officials state that Aviles lacked any legal documentation permitting her to transport marijuana. She has been booked into the Siskiyou County Jail and is facing charges concerning the possession and transportation of marijuana intended for sale.

 

A bill that permits the governor of Oregon to appoint a U.S. senator for the state in the case of an unforeseen vacancy is now just one signature away from becoming law.

In a vote of 31-24, the Oregon House lawmakers approved Senate Bill 952 on Tuesday. This legislation would empower Gov. Tina Kotek, as well as any future governor of Oregon, to appoint an individual from the same political party as the outgoing senator within 30 days of their death, resignation, or inability to continue serving in their role. The appointment would remain valid until the conclusion of the former senator’s term or until a successor is elected, whichever occurs first.

This legislation would eliminate Oregon’s position as one of four states where vacancies remain unfilled until special elections are held, without any appointments made by the governor. Senate Bill 952 was passed by the Oregon Senate in April with a 16-13 vote along party lines, which included one dissenting Democrat, and it also featured amendments that require a special election to be scheduled within 150 days following a vacancy.

In 2022, Oregon lawmakers attempted a similar initiative but were unsuccessful in passing it through the Legislature. However, Oregon Republicans viewed this measure as a way to further consolidate power among Democrats and party insiders. Several members voiced their concerns on the House floor, arguing that the decision should be left to the voters.

 

Recently, state Senators from Eastern Oregon submitted a letter to the Senate Rules Committee, requesting a public hearing for Senate Joint Memorial 7.

This memorial invites the state of Idaho to initiate discussions regarding border movement with Oregon. Senators Nash, McLane, and Dennis Linthicum from Klamath County referenced the public support for the idea of relocating the state border, which has been evident in their districts, as a basis for requesting the hearing.

Notably, Greater Idaho bills have been approved in 13 counties represented by these three senators. In 2023, the Idaho legislature also passed a similar memorial inviting Oregon to commence border discussions. Matt McCaw, the Executive Director of Greater Idaho, commended the Senators’ initiative.

“We are heartened to witness the representatives of Eastern Oregon uniting to advocate for their constituents by requesting this hearing. For four years, the residents of Eastern Oregon have expressed their desire to consider moving the border and joining Idaho through their votes. Their elected officials are now aligning with this sentiment. The Oregon Legislature has a responsibility to honor the voices of the people in Eastern Oregon and to listen to their concerns.”

Recently, representatives from Greater Idaho convened in Salem to meet with Legislators, urging progress on two bills related to border movement. In the House, HB3488 aims to establish a study group consisting of various stakeholders from across Oregon to examine the implications of a border change.

This bill is co-sponsored by several representatives from Eastern Oregon, including Mark Owens of Crane, Vikki Breese-Iversen of Prineville, and Bobby Levy of Echo.

 

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is issuing a reminder to the public that if you encounter a fawn alone, it is not abandoned, and you should refrain from removing the animal.

The agency’s Central Point office has already documented six cases of individuals bringing in fawns or has received calls from people inquiring about fawns they have picked up. It emphasizes that this is the season when deer give birth, and it is crucial to understand that they do not abandon their fawns. Instead, they conceal their fawns while they forage to prevent attracting predators, allowing them to subsequently feed their young.

Experts indicate that removing a fawn can significantly reduce its chances of survival, as stated by Chris Shelton from ODFW’s Rogue District. If you happen upon a fawn alone, it is best to leave it in its location and maintain a safe distance. Does are highly protective of their offspring and have been known to injure humans and even kill small pets.

Additionally, it is important to note that removing wildlife is illegal; it is classified as a class-A misdemeanor, which can lead to a potential year in jail and fines exceeding $6,200.

 

BLM timber sales to offer up to 8.5 million board feet in western Oregon

 

A Portland area drug trafficker was sentenced to federal prison today for his role in distributing illicit fentanyl that resulted in the fatal overdose of a young man in Washington County, Oregon.

Efrain Roberto Diaz-Rangel, 35, a Mexican national unlawfully residing in Portland, was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison and four years’ supervised release. 

According to court documents, in April 2023, the Westside Interagency Narcotics Team (WIN) began investigating a suspected fentanyl overdose of the adult male victim in Washington County. In May 2023, WIN requested investigative assistance from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Interdiction Task Force (HIT), and Portland Police Bureau (PPB).

Investigators determined that several people were involved in a distribution chain responsible for selling counterfeit Oxycodone pills manufactured with illicit fentanyl. Investigators identified Diaz-Rangel as an originating source of fentanyl in Oregon and learned that he trafficked fentanyl and heroin for a Mexico-based drug dispatcher.

On June 27, 2023, as part of a controlled buy, HSI special agents arrested Diaz-Rangel. At the time of his arrest, Diaz-Rangel possessed approximately 1,000 counterfeit pills and a small quantity of heroin. Later that day, investigators executed a search warrant on Diaz-Rangel’s residence and located an additional 30,000 counterfeit pills containing fentanyl, four pounds of heroin, and more than $10,000 in cash.

On June 27, 2023, Diaz-Rangel was charged by criminal complaint with possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin.

On March 4, 2025, Diaz-Rangel pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

This case was jointly investigated by WIN and HSI with assistance from the HIDTA HIT and PPB. It was prosecuted by Scott M. Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 3-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.

 

Portland Man Sentenced to 13 Years For Possession Of Drugs and Money Laudering

PORTLAND, Ore.—Jered Hayward, 45, of Salem, Oregon, was sentenced today to 156 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute over 1,000 kilograms of marijuana and conspiracy to launder the proceeds. He also agreed to forfeit assets worth more than $2 million dollars.

According to court documents, Hayward operated a large-scale THC and psilocybin production and distribution facility headquartered in Salem. As part of his operation, Hayward and his employees obtained cereal and candy products and infused or sprayed potent THC oils on them.  They then inserted the edibles into packages which mimicked the legitimate consumer food products, and sold them throughout the United States and internationally. While there was no evidence Hayward deliberately targeted minors, the manner in which his organization packaged the edibles posed a risk to children, who are often unable to comprehend the fine print warnings that the packages contained THC products.

Hayward’s organization utilized encrypted communications such as Telegram to market, sell and process orders, and straw businesses to mask money laundering transactions. Hayward had no permits or licenses to produce or sell these products; the entire operation was illegal.

Hayward has an extensive criminal record, including three prior state and federal convictions for marijuana and fentanyl trafficking. Because of these convictions, he is a career criminal under federal law.

Hayward agreed to forfeit substantial assets which he admitted were related to his drug and money laundering enterprise. As part of his guilty plea Hayward agreed to forfeit:

• The Salem production facility;
• More than $1 million in cash;
• $640,000 worth of cryptocurrency and bank account funds;
• More than $400,000 worth of gold and silver;
• Jewelry and a Rolex watch; and
• Twelve vehicles, two UTV’s, and boats.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Portland Police Bureau, United States Postal Inspection, Oregon State Police, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Salem Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Kemp Strickland and Christopher Cardani, Assistant United States Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

 

PORTLAND, Ore.—Luis Antonio Beltran Arredondo, 35, a Mexican national unlawfully residing in North Las Vegas, Nevada, pleaded guilty Monday to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin and fentanyl; and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

According to court documents, a long-term investigation revealed that Arredondo was the leader of an Oregon-based drug trafficking organization that distributed large quantities of heroin and fentanyl in the Portland metro area. Between October 2021 and January 2022, investigators seized more than 52 pounds of heroin, more than 7 pounds of fentanyl pills, and nearly six pounds of methamphetamine from individuals, vehicles, and locations connected to Arredondo’s organization.

Arredondo also conspired to launder $4.63 million dollars by running drug trafficking proceeds through a Tualatin, Oregon-based beauty salon, and then using the money to buy nine properties, which were then converted into income-generating rentals. These properties have been forfeited to the United States and are in the process of being sold.

Arredondo faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $10 million fine and 5 years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on August 18, 2025, before U.S. District Court Judge Michael Simon.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) with assistance from the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), IRS-Criminal Investigation (IRS:CI), Tigard Police Department, and the Oregon State Police. It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.

 

Everyone is permitted to fish, clam, and crab without charge in Oregon on Saturday and Sunday, June 7-8, 2025.

No fishing or shellfish licenses or tags (including a Combined Angling Tag, Columbia River Basin Endorsement, or Two-Rod Validation) are necessary on these dates. Both residents and nonresidents of Oregon can fish at no cost. Oregon State Parks will also provide free parking and camping on Saturday, June 7.

All other fishing regulations remain in effect, including closures, bag limits, and size restrictions. Please refer to the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for detailed regulations. It is advisable to check MyODFW.com for any in-season regulation updates, particularly concerning salmon and steelhead fishing.

The Recreation Report is updated weekly and highlights the best fishing opportunities for the upcoming week. Anticipate a significant stocking of rainbow trout in Oregon’s ponds and lakes for the weekend; consult the trout stocking schedule for further details and stocking locations.

 

Each year, Oregon State Parks commences its peak season by expressing gratitude to its visitors through “complimentary camping and day-use parking” on State Parks Day.

This event, which has been celebrated since 1998, serves to acknowledge the enduring support of Oregonians for the state park system. Scheduled for the first Saturday of June, this year it will take place on June 7.

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will eliminate day-use parking fees at the 25 parks that typically impose them, as well as waive camping fees for all tent, RV, and horse campsites on June 7.

Additionally, State Parks Day features free events at numerous state parks. Park staff have diligently prepared the parks over the past few months for the upcoming busy season and State Parks Day. Their efforts have included addressing storm damage, such as the removal of approximately 180 fallen trees near Nehalem, and relocating significant amounts of debris to reopen camping loops.

The parks are now fully prepared to welcome visitors for both State Parks Day and the busy season ahead.

Parks Day Events

• The Cove Palisades will host a free festival that celebrates the diverse history, food and culture of Central Oregon from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Festival of the Land, includes Dutch oven cooking demonstrations, kids’ games and activities, petting zoo, educational displays, mini farmers market and more.
• L.L. Stub Stewart will host a star party in partnership with OMSI and Rose City Astronomers at 9:30 p.m. in the Hilltop Day-Use Area. Visit OMSI’s website on the day of the party for possible weather-related cancellations: https://omsi.edu/whats-on/
• Carl G. Washburne will host a free State Parks Day BBQ from noon to 1 p.m.
• Spring Valley Access will host a trail work party from 9 a.m. to noon. The event includes clearing brush, raking debris and picking up trash.  
• Tryon Creek State Natural Area invites visitors to explore its Interpretive Nature Center, navigate its extensive trail system and attend a guided hike.
• Prineville Reservoir will host a free State Parks Day BBQ from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. near the Dark Sky Observatory.
• Silver Falls will host an exhibit about the emerald ash borer (EAB) and its role as a threat to Oregon’s ash trees 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oregon State Parks and Oregon Department of Forestry staff will be on hand to share information about the importance of ash trees and this destructive invasive beetle.
• Collier: will offer a guided tour through Collier Logging Museum 11 a.m. to noon so visitors can learn about old logging camps and what machines they used to make life easier.
• Fort Stevens will host disc golf lessons 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fort Stevens State Park-Historic Area Columbia Shores Disc Golf Course.
• Harris Beach we have a multi-park scavenger hunt where visitors can seek natural formations, unique flora and historical locations. Pick up scavenger hunt cards at Harris Beach registration booth or from ranger or host at Alred Loeb.

For a list of events, visit stateparks.oregon.gov/

For camping availability, please check oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com or visit first-come-first served sites: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=reserve.first-come

Learn more at stateparks.oregon.gov.

 

This boating season promises to be exceptional. To foster memorable experiences, the Oregon State Marine Board urges boaters to remain vigilant of their surroundings, ensure they possess all necessary equipment, and inform others of their recreational plans.

The Marine Board provides numerous resources to assist boaters in having a safe and enjoyable time on Oregon’s waterways. The agency recommends utilizing the Marine Board’s interactive boating access map, which outlines public boat ramps, local boating regulations, and additional facility information, including ownership and available amenities. It is also advisable to check the weather forecast, water levels, and tides, as well as to consult the agency’s obstructions map for any reported hazards.

Boaters can visit the Marine Board’s website to determine the required equipment based on their boat’s size and type. It is essential to have the appropriate gear for planned activities and to ensure that each passenger is equipped with a properly fitting life jacket approved by the US Coast Guard.

The Marine Board would like to remind boaters to: Operate soberly, refraining from the consumption of marijuana, drugs, or alcohol, as these substances impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination, and can lead to dehydration. Boating requires acute situational awareness. All children aged 12 and under must wear a life jacket while underway on all types of boats, both motorized and nonmotorized. Additionally, all boaters navigating Class III whitewater rivers are mandated to wear a life jacket. It is important to be courteous to fellow boaters and to share the waterway. Gear should be staged in the parking lot or designated staging area, regardless of boat type, to facilitate quicker launches and enhance the experience for everyone present.

In Oregon, all motorboat operators with engines exceeding 10 horsepower are required to complete a boating safety course and carry a boating safety education card while operating their vessel. Paddlers of nonmotorized boats measuring 10 feet or longer must obtain a waterway access permit. The Marine Board also provides a complimentary online Paddling Course for those new to the activity.

 

MEDFORD, Ore. – The Oregon Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment will host a Norwegian Foot March on June 8, 2025, open to both military personnel and civilians seeking to test their endurance limits.

The event begins at 4 a.m. at U.S. Cellular Field in Medford, with participants stepping off at 5 a.m. for the challenging 18.6-mile (30-kilometer) route. Participants striving for official completion and badge qualification must carry a 24-pound rucksack or backpack and complete the march within age-specific time standards ranging from 4 hours, 30 minutes to 6 hours. Walking the route and cheering on participants is also encouraged for community members who want to be part of the experience.

“This is a unique opportunity for civilians to earn a badge that’s typically reserved for military personnel,” said 1st Lt. Ian Namu, who led the unit’s preparatory training. “We’re excited to share this challenge with our community.”

The Norwegian Foot March originated in 1915 as a test of marching endurance for soldiers in the Norwegian military. The strategic goal was to move large units of troops over great distances swiftly while maintaining combat readiness. Today, the event stimulates interest in long-distance marching among both military and civilian participants. Participants who complete the route within time standards while wearing duty uniform and boots can earn the Norwegian Foot March Badge. The badge comes in bronze, silver and gold levels based on the number of times completed.

The Oregon National Guard unit has been preparing for the event through training marches, including a 6-mile ruck march conducted in March along Medford’s Bear Creek Greenway under the leadership of 1st Lt. Ian Namu. Registration is available by scanning the QR code on the event flyer.

For more information about the Norwegian Foot March, contact 1st Lt. Ian Namu 808-371-0240.

 

There exists a perfect beach for swimming along the Oregon coast — although it may not be exactly where you anticipate. The travel publication Islands has named Cleawox Lake — a small freshwater lake featuring sandy beaches — as the most favored swimming beach in the state.

Situated within Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park and adjacent to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area on the central Oregon coast, Cleawox Lake offers two day-use areas equipped with sandy beaches and swimming facilities.

Honeyman State Park provides 355 camping sites, in addition to 10 yurts. There are six designated group camping areas. Camping is permitted throughout the year. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance either online at oregonstateparks.org or by calling 800-452-5687.

Please note that there are no walk-in sites available at the park.

 

The Galice Resort, located in southern Oregon along the protected section of the Rogue National Wild and Scenic River, is a beloved destination for rafters, anglers, and hikers, and is currently on the market for $3,375,000.

The Thomason family has owned and developed the hospitality business on the 12.8-acre property at 11744 Galice Road in Merlin since 1983, and they have prepared the furnished, turn-key resort for its future owners.

The asking price encompasses year-round accommodations at the three-story Galice Lodge, the two-story Rogue Retreat house, the four-bedroom Riverview Lodge, and the “cabin row,” which includes a cottage, guest house, four cabins, and a bunk house.

From spring to fall, the riverside boathouse store and food cart court, offering meals and live music, are also operational. A fire in 2021 resulted in the destruction of the store, bar, and deck, all of which have since been rebuilt. However, the restaurant was also affected by the blaze and has not yet been reconstructed. Nevertheless, a permit has been granted to build a new restaurant on the original site along the river’s Wild and Scenic section.

 

Late spring persists in providing opportunities for observing the Northern Lights for individuals situated along the northern boundary of the United States.

Following the severe geomagnetic storm that occurred over the weekend, Wednesday night will present skywatchers with another opportunity to witness the auroras, as the “view line” is anticipated to reach the northeastern border of Oregon. Currently, Earth is experiencing the “solar maximum” phase of solar cycle 25, which is an approximately 11-year cycle of magnetic activity originating from the sun, expected to continue until 2026.

To observe the lights effectively, it is advisable to avoid areas with light pollution and direct your gaze towards the northern horizon.

“Skinny”, the oldest harbor seal in the world, is reaching the milestone of 50 years of age.

In the wild, harbor seals typically live into their 20s, whereas those under human care can survive into their 30s, or in Skinny’s exceptional case, far longer.

Skinny was discovered stranded on a beach in Washington state in 1975, orphaned, dehydrated, and malnourished.

She received care at the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium before being relocated to the Oregon Coast Aquarium in 1992. A public celebration is scheduled for June 3rd.

 

Thanks for reading the the news on BasinLife.com from Wynne Broadcasting.

Ready to Advertise? Let us get the word out for your business!  We offer more local advertising opportunities than any one in the Klamath Basin. 

Call BasinLife.com at 541-363-7503. Or email us today at INFO@BasinLife.com with your name, business, and what you’re looking for.  We’ll customize a plan fit for your budget.

You can receive Daily Radio Mentions across our 6 stations, Articles, direct link Banner Ads, floating Banner Ads on hundreds of article pages daily, Social Media Posts and also available are Email Blasts to thousands of local residents.

We can also keep you updated with the latest smart digital marketing strategies for 2025 for your business. BasinLife.com is still the best value in the Klamath Basin for advertising, now in our 9th year promoting businesses in Southern Oregon.

For information or prices on plans, simply call us today at 541-363-7503 or email us at Info@BasinLife.com.  Let us keep your business top-of -mind!