AUGUST 4,
Community Calls for Recall of Commissioner John West Amid Controversy
By: John Oliver
A petition circulating in the community finally seeks the recall of Commissioner John West, citing concerns over his leadership and decision-making. The petition, backed by a growing number of residents, alleges that West's actions have negatively impacted the health and safety of the community, led to financial mismanagement, and violated state laws.
On Friday, a diverse group of around one hundred Josephine County residents gathered in front of the Courthouse to show support for the recall of Commissioner John West. The crowd, representing various political affiliations, came together in a unified effort to address concerns over West's actions and to advocate for change within the county before the situation deteriorates further.
Allegations Against Commissioner West
The petition outlines several key areas of concern: Pipe Fork Property Sale: West is accused of engaging in bad faith negotiations regarding the sale of the Pipe Fork property. Critics argue that this decision not only resulted in lost revenue for the county but also endangered a crucial water source for the Williams community.
Budget Cuts Ignoring Voter Will: The petition claims that West disregarded the will of voters by cutting funding for several community programs, including the Oregon State University Extension Service, law enforcement, and public health initiatives. These cuts have reportedly strained vital services that many residents rely on.
Legal Violations: West is alleged to have violated state laws, including campaign finance regulations and public meeting laws. He is also facing pending ethics and labor law violations, raising concerns about his adherence to legal standards.
Library District Withdrawal: Another significant point of contention is West’s unilateral decision to approve the withdrawal of the county from a Library District. This action has reportedly led to costly litigation, further straining county resources.
Community Safety Concerns: The petitioners argue that West has jeopardized community safety by reducing or eliminating programs critical to emergency preparedness. This includes scaling back the Firewise program, cutting the Emergency Management program, and removing fire safety standards for property development.
Hiring Practices: West is also criticized for allegedly hiring unqualified political allies for key county positions. Petitioners
believe these appointments were made based on political loyalty rather than merit, raising questions about the effectiveness of county governance.
The petitioners lead by former county commissioner, Lily Morgan claim that West’s actions reflect a pattern of unethical and illegal behavior that has eroded public trust. The recall effort underscores the community’s growing frustration and calls for a leadership change to restore integrity in local governance.
Supporters of the recall argue that West’s decisions have not aligned with the best interests of the people he was elected to serve. The petition suggests that his leadership has resulted in tangible negative impacts on the community, from financial losses to compromised public safety.
As the recall effort gains momentum, the community awaits further developments. If the petition gathers enough signatures, it could lead to a recall election, giving voters the opportunity to decide whether Commissioner West should remain in office.
West has not yet issued a public statement regarding the petition. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Join the Community in Supporting Local Youth at the 5th Annual 4TheKids Livestock Auction
By: J. Thompson
The 5th Annual 4TheKids Livestock Auction is set to take place on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at the JOCO Fairgrounds & Event Center. This event offers the perfect opportunity for community members to come together and support local youth who have spent months raising market lambs, goats, steers, and swine.
The auction kicks off at 9:00 AM, with check-in starting at 8:00 AM. The event will run until 11:00 PM, giving attendees ample time to see the animals, meet the young farmers, and place their bids.
These kids have dedicated countless hours to caring for their animals, and this auction represents the culmination of their hard work and commitment. The proceeds from the sales often go towards future agricultural projects, college funds, and other educational pursuits, making your participation even more meaningful.
Whether you’re looking to purchase livestock or simply want to show your support, the 4TheKids Livestock Auction is a great way to get involved in the community. To register for the event, visit www.Boatnik.com.
Make sure to mark your calendars and head to the Horse Arena at the JOCO Fairgrounds & Event Center for a day filled with community spirit and a chance to support the next generation of farmers.
POLITICS
Chris Barnett: The Drama Enthusiast
Who Could Excel as a News Reporter
By: Clayton Moore
Let’s not forget about Chris Barnett, a crony of Commissioner West and a hopeful candidate for Josephine County Commissioner. Barnett is a familiar face in the community, known for his flair in creating and uncovering drama. His knack for storytelling and ability to present news with a twist might make him a natural fit as an on-scene news reporter for the Daily Enquirer or perhaps the Scanner Page. However, when it comes to leading as a county commissioner, that role seems to be beyond his scope of expertise. While Barnett’s approach to reporting could bring a fresh, albeit controversial, perspective to journalism, it doesn’t translate into effective community leadership.
Barnett's talent lies in his ability to highlight problems and present them in a way that captivates his audience. He excels at bringing attention to his own issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. However, his track record in providing solutions leaves much to be desired. His career is marked by a series of questionable business practices and a tendency to bend the truth to suit his narrative.
One could argue that Barnett’s propensity for drama and his skill in reporting it would make him an asset in the news industry. His ability to turn mundane events into sensational stories is unparalleled. Imagine him on the scene of a local incident, turning every detail into a headline-worthy event, making the audience feel like they are part of the unfolding
drama—much like his daily life.
Yet, there is a darker side to Barnett’s storytelling prowess. His penchant for creating and embellishing stories has earned him a reputation as a con man. From his business dealings to his everyday interactions, Barnett’s relationship with the truth is tenuous at best. His history is filled with allegations of deceit and manipulation, painting a picture of a man who thrives on chaos.
The irony is that while Barnett’s skills in generating drama and spinning stories could make him an exceptional news reporter, his integrity—or lack thereof—would be a significant concern. The news industry requires a commitment to truth and accuracy, qualities that Barnett has repeatedly failed to demonstrate. His ability to blur the lines between reality and fiction might entertain viewers, but it would undermine the credibility of any news organization he represents.
Barnett’s choices have led him down a path of controversy. He chose to enter politics, a field where honesty and transparency are paramount, and yet he has repeatedly chosen to deceive those around him. This duality in his nature makes him a fascinating, albeit problematic, candidate for a career in news reporting. While his skills are undeniable, his history of dishonesty and manipulation raises serious concerns about his suitability for a role that demands integrity and truthfulness.
Chris Barnett’s talent for dramatizing issues is undeniable.
He has a unique ability to turn everyday events into gripping stories, a talent that would serve him well as an on-scene news reporter. However, his history of deceit and manipulation makes him unsuitable for roles that require trust and responsibility. Barnett’s story serves as a reminder that while drama and sensationalism can capture attention, they must be balanced with a commitment to the truth.
The Question of Kamala Harris's Identity: A Matter of Politics or Perception?
By: T. Randall
Is Kamala Harris Black, Indian, or something else? The answer seems elusive, shifting depending on the narrative at hand. Critics argue that Harris’s identity fluctuates with political expediency—Indian when it suits her, and Black when the moment demands. Even her accent seems to change with the tides, a point of contention for those who note her Canadian upbringing.
This week, former President Donald J. Trump stirred the pot by claiming that Kamala Harris “happened to turn Black” only recently, a statement that many found inflammatory. Yet, instead of addressing the issue head-on, Harris chose not to mention race at all in her response. Instead, she used the opportunity to denounce Trump’s “divisiveness and disrespect” in a speech delivered to the historically Black sorority Sigma Gamma Rho.
Kamala Harris's background is as complex as the identity debates surrounding her. With a father from Jamaica and a mother from India, she has long resisted attempts to neatly categorize her race. “I am who I am,” she once said. “I’m good with it. You might need to figure it out, but I’m fine with it.”
For many voters across the country—regardless of race—the question of Harris’s identity isn’t a pressing concern. Interviews reveal a general acceptance of her mixed heritage, with many echoing her unburdened attitude. As Harris
stands on the brink of making history as the first woman of color to become the Democratic Party’s presidential nominee, her identity is seen by many as a “cherry on top” rather than the core of their concerns.
The debate over Harris’s identity highlights a larger issue in American politics: the way race is often wielded as a tool for division. While some focus on trying to define her, others see the real question as not what box she checks, but how she chooses to lead. Harris's own response to the identity debate—avoiding direct
engagement and instead addressing the broader issues of divisiveness—suggests that she is less concerned with how others label her and more focused on the challenges facing the nation.
Ultimately, the conversation about Kamala Harris's identity may say more about the nation’s ongoing struggles with race and identity than it does about Harris herself. As she continues her political journey, the question remains: Does her heritage define her, or is it just one aspect of a complex, multifaceted leader?
NEWS DESK
Utah Lawmaker Introduces Legislation to Regulate Migrant Transport Between Cities
By: Ellen Ward
A proposed bill from Utah Republican Representative Burgess Owens aims to address the issue of sanctuary cities transporting migrants to non-sanctuary municipalities. The legislation, known as the Sanctuary City Oversight and Responsibility in Enforcement (SCORE) Act, seeks to impose stricter regulations on how sanctuary cities manage the movement of migrants and to hold them accountable for the migrants they receive.
The bill, introduced on Friday, outlines several key measures. One of its main provisions would cut federal funding to sanctuary cities that attempt to transport undocumented migrants to cities without sanctuary status. The funding in question comes from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Shelter and Services Program (SSP), which is designed to help local governments and organizations financially support
migrants who are awaiting court appearances.
Under the SCORE Act, any city or organization involved in relocating migrants would be required to document a sponsor at the migrants' destination. This sponsor would ensure that the individuals being relocated would not need to rely on government-provided shelter upon arrival.
Additionally, the proposed legislation would mandate that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) produce a quarterly report on the recipients of FEMA SSP grants. This report would aim to ensure that the funds are being used in accordance with the program’s guidelines and that there is compliance with the new regulations proposed in the bill.
Rep. Owens cited a recent incident involving Denver authorities as a motivation for the bill. Over 1,500 tickets were reportedly provided to undocumented migrants to travel to Salt Lake
City, Utah, without prior notice to local officials. This, according to Owens, has strained local resources and prompted concerns about the impact of such relocations on non-sanctuary cities.
“Self-declared sanctuary cities like Denver have been quietly sending migrants to non-sanctuary cities like Salt Lake City as the Biden-Harris open border agenda overwhelms resources,” Owens said in his announcement video. “My new bill cuts off this funding and closes the loophole that’s fueling this crisis in Utah.”
The SCORE Act represents a broader debate on immigration policy and the responsibilities of sanctuary cities. If passed, it could significantly impact how local governments handle migrant relocation and the distribution of federal resources. The bill is currently awaiting further discussion and review in Congress.
Oregon Battles Multiple Fires Amidst Challenging Conditions
Source: ODF
As Oregon continues to grapple with several wildfires across the state, one of the most concerning is the Monkey Creek Fire within the Battle Mountain Complex. Firefighters are facing increasingly challenging conditions as fire behavior intensifies, leading to the formation of smaller spot fires and a significant increase in visible smoke from hot spots within the fire's interior.
Despite the challenges, crews have successfully held lines around the fire's perimeter, quickly containing several small spot fires that breached containment lines. However, the situation remains precarious as Red Flag conditions—characterized by strong winds, low humidity, and high temperatures—are expected to persist through the weekend. Additionally, lightning is predicted, which could further complicate firefighting efforts.
Firefighters are focusing on gaining deeper mop-up depth and cooling hot spots around the entire fire perimeter. This mop-up operation is crucial as it helps ensure that any materials that might reignite under rising temperatures are fully extinguished and cannot escape the fire lines.
On the western half of the fire, crews are concentrating on strengthening containment lines along the southeast corner,
just west of Monument. This area has been a key focus, and efforts will continue to ensure that the fire does not breach containment. Along the northern perimeter, firefighters have secured the area around Ditch Creek and are now focusing on the region between Ditch Creek and the Potamus drainage. Crews are working to identify control features that can be used to halt the fire's advance.
Throughout the entire perimeter, firefighters are mopping up and cooling hot spots to prevent flare-ups. Residents in the area should continue to expect to see smoke from within the fire’s interior, particularly from unburned vegetation that remains well within the fire’s footprint. This smoke is a reminder that, even in contained areas, the fire can remain active.
Helicopter resources are also being utilized to patrol the fire, providing bucket-drop support to critical areas where visibility allows. These aerial resources are essential in managing the fire's spread and protecting structures and communities in its path.
As Oregon continues to battle multiple fires, the dedication and vigilance of firefighting crews remain critical. The state is on high alert, and the cooperation of residents and local authorities will be essential in managing this ongoing threat.
COMMUNITY GRANTS PASS
Enjoy Family Fun with Movies in the Park this August
City of Grants Pass – Rogue Credit Union
Looking for fun family activities this August? The City of Grants Pass has just the event for you with their “Movies in the Park” series, featuring free outdoor movie screenings at Riverside and Reinhart Volunteer parks. Bring your picnic blankets, snacks, and loved ones for a night of entertainment under the stars.
MOVIE SCHEDULE:
August 2, Riverside Park – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem Kick off the month with the beloved Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in “Mutant Mayhem.” Join Raphael, Leonardo, Donatello, and Michelangelo as they navigate the streets of New York City, taking on sinister mutants threatening the city. This action-packed adventure is perfect for families and fans of all ages.
August 16, Reinhart Volunteer Park – The Iron Giant Later in the month, head to Reinhart Volunteer Park for a screening of the
classic animated film, “The Iron Giant.” Follow the story of a mysterious metal man who crashes to Earth and befriends a young boy named Hogarth Hughes. As they uncover the Giant’s origins, they must also evade the U.S. government, which sees the Giant as a potential threat. This heartwarming tale of friendship and courage is a must-see for all ages.
EVENT DETAILS:
Location: Riverside Park (August 2), Reinhart Volunteer Park (August 16)
Time: Movies begin at dusk, so arrive early to secure a good spot. What to Bring: Blankets, lawn chairs, snacks, and your sense of adventure!
This event is a great way to enjoy the summer evenings with family and friends while watching some great movies. Don’t miss out on this chance to create lasting memories with your community.
5 DAY OUTLOOK
SOURCE: WEATHER.COM
