Oregon continues to lead the nation in efforts to enhance wildfire resilience, boasting the second-highest number of Firewise USA sites in the country. As of 2024, the state is home to 298 active Firewise sites, with 32 new sites added over the past year. This initiative is part of Oregon’s ongoing commitment to reduce wildfire risks and protect communities across the state. The Firewise USA program, designed to help communities become more resilient to wildfires, is a national initiative managed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The program offers resources and guidance tailored to homeowners, helping them implement fire…
Author: Sarah Prescott
KLAMATH COUNTY, Ore. – The Klamath County Sheriff’s Office has issued a warning to the public about an ongoing Bitcoin and investment scam targeting local residents. Authorities say scammers are posing as law enforcement, government representatives, or tech support in an attempt to pressure victims into purchasing cryptocurrency. According to the sheriff’s office, the fraudsters are using deceptive tactics, claiming that the purchase of Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies is necessary to secure or protect funds. In some cases, the scammers have threatened victims with arrest or other legal consequences if they refuse to comply. The sheriff’s office stressed that legitimate…
GRANTS PASS, Ore. — Weeks after shutting down the city’s largest resting site for homeless residents, Grants Pass city officials are now exploring new options for designated resting sites, as the city grapples with legal challenges and local business concerns. The closure of the J Street site in January has sparked ongoing debates over how best to address homelessness in the area, with business owners and residents expressing concerns about the impact on the community. The situation took a legal turn last week, when a judge granted an emergency restraining order in response to a lawsuit filed by Disability Rights…
MEDFORD, Ore. — Authorities are currently on the scene of a menacing incident involving a handgun in the 400 block of N Grape St. in Medford. The Medford Police Department has established a perimeter around a residence where they believe the suspect is holed up. Officers are working to make contact with the individual inside the home, but details surrounding the situation remain limited. The Medford Police have advised the public to avoid the area as roads surrounding the location have been closed to ensure safety. In response to the threat, McLaughlin Middle School was placed under a secure status…
Ashland, Ore. – The City of Ashland is gradually reopening its parks and recreational facilities after the severe storm that impacted the area last week. While most parks and amenities have resumed regular operations, city officials are urging the public to exercise caution as some areas may still have downed trees or branches. Parks that have reopened include several popular locations, with most amenities now available to the public. However, certain parks and facilities remain closed for safety reasons while crews continue with cleanup and inspection efforts. The following locations remain closed: Siskiyou Mountain Park Hald Strawberry Park Ashland Watershed…
MEDFORD, Ore. – Buttercloud Bakery and Café has officially begun its rebuilding process following significant fire damage sustained last month. Co-owner Erik confirmed that construction work commenced last week, with an estimated timeline of four to six weeks for completion, followed by a brief ramp-up period before the café reopens its doors to the public. The popular bakery, known for its homemade pastries and hearty breakfast offerings, has been closed since January 9. The closure resulted from a fire that originated at a neighboring warehouse owned by Medford Mattress, which caused extensive damage to the bakery’s premises. The community’s response…
Medford, Oregon – As federal immigration enforcement operations continue to increase across the United States, protests against deportations are gaining significant momentum. On Saturday, local residents gathered outside the Medford Courthouse, voicing their opposition to recent changes in immigration policies that critics argue threaten the rights and safety of immigrant communities. Carrying signs that read, “We Stand Together and We Speak for Those Who Can’t,” demonstrators expressed their concerns about the growing fear and uncertainty facing many immigrants. The rally was a part of a broader wave of protests across the country, as individuals call for a halt to deportations…
GRANTS PASS, Ore. — Weeks after the closure of the city’s largest homeless resting site, city officials are evaluating new locations to serve as designated resting areas for homeless residents. The city’s efforts come in response to a legal ruling that temporarily halted any enforcement actions against homeless individuals camping in public spaces. In a recent work session, City Manager Aaron Cubic presented several potential locations for new resting sites, which included both previously used areas as well as new spaces—some publicly and others privately owned. “We’re looking for additional space and additional time,” Cubic explained during the session, emphasizing…
Medford, OR – In the wake of Oregon’s most devastating wildfire season in decades, lawmakers are looking for sustainable ways to fund the state’s firefighting efforts. In a bold proposal earlier this week, Senator Jeff Golden, a Democrat from Ashland, suggested using Oregon’s kicker tax refund to finance wildfire protection indefinitely. The 2024 wildfire season scorched over two million acres of land, with the total cost of fighting the fires reaching an eye-popping $350 million. The Oregon Department of Forestry ran out of funds, prompting Governor Tina Kotek to call a special legislative session in December to approve $218 million…
Medford, OR – The Josephine County Sheriff’s Office is gearing up for its 2025 Search and Rescue Academy, offering local residents the chance to become certified volunteers in search and rescue operations. The academy will take place from February 18 through March 15, with classes scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. This comprehensive training program aims to equip participants with vital skills needed for search and rescue missions. Topics covered will include basic survival techniques, first aid and CPR, land navigation, and other essential rescue operations. Upon successful…