SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2024
A Story of Corruption
Two Josephine County Commissioners and the Josephine County Republican Party Leadership
By: Jay Meredith, CPA
In 2015, a Chapman University survey of over 1,500 Americans found that the greatest fear among them was corrupt government officials. If that fear holds true for Josephine County, then residents should brace themselves for a deeply unsettling story.
In early August 2024, a recall petition was filed against Josephine County Commissioner John West, and more alarming revelations have surfaced to further support the claims made by the Committee to Recall John West. These facts, detailed in a 13-page report available at RecallJohnWest.com, paint a troubling picture of corruption and cronyism. Yet, as soon as the recall petition gained attention, both West and Josephine County Republican Party leadership claimed innocence—without thoroughly investigating the allegations.
When presented with clear evidence of violations, such as breaking state campaign finance laws, West and his supporters deflect attention by falsely attacking the motives of recall volunteers. Unfortunately for them, much of what happens in government is public information, and their deceptions are easily disproven.
In mid-2023, just six months after John West took office, the County needed to fill two crucial positions—Emergency Management Director and IT Director. The former HR Director of Josephine County revealed that West, in an illegal private conversation with Commissioner Baertschiger, opposed filling the Emergency Manager role. West proposed assigning the responsibilities to Michael Sellers, who was later given a newly created “Technology / Emergency Services Director” position, despite having no emergency management experience.
Sellers, who had not yet interviewed for the IT Director position, was a political ally of both West and Baertschiger. His resume revealed no emergency management qualifications, yet the County chose him over a candidate with 15 years of relevant experience. Even former Commissioner Dan DeYoung, excluded from the hiring process, refused to participate in interviews, disgusted by what he saw as a pre-determined and corrupt decision.
Sellers' appointment to a combined IT and emergency management role left many puzzled. His lack of experience
and political connections made it clear that cronyism was at play.
Even more alarming is that Michael Sellers has been working full-time for the State of Oregon while supposedly managing two full-time departments for Josephine County. Public records show that Sellers earns $7,139 per month working part-time as Chief of Staff for Senator Art Robinson and another $7,139 per month as a Legislative Assistant for Senator Brian Boquist. Additionally, his estimated salary from Josephine County is $8,000 per month. This triple-dipping arrangement leads to a combined annual gross salary of about $267,000, with a total compensation package nearing $361,000. His wife, Danielle Sellers, also draws a significant salary from the state, bringing their total household compensation to nearly $477,000 annually—all paid by taxpayers.
It’s physically impossible for Sellers to devote full-time hours to each of these roles. His inability to fulfill his duties for Josephine County has been demonstrated through failures such as losing a $200,000 broadband grant for local residents. The misuse of taxpayer funds in this way is an abuse of public trust and resources.
Sellers’ tenure has been marked by tension and controversy. Former Commissioner Dan DeYoung recounted several disturbing incidents involving Sellers, including a heated confrontation over a fraudulent mileage reimbursement form. When DeYoung questioned why Sellers had omitted previous employment on his resume, Sellers became defensive. This combative attitude resulted in Sellers filing a harassment complaint against DeYoung and demanding that County Legal Counsel be present for all future interactions.
DeYoung also highlighted concerns about Sellers’ role in monitoring County employees’ communications. Many believe that Sellers was hired to serve the political interests of Commissioners West and Baertschiger, not to benefit the public.
Further raising red flags was the firing of Trish House, the former Secretary to the Board of Commissioners. House had complained about Sellers' frequent absences and his unqualified appointment to the director position. Her dismissal, allegedly ordered by West and Baertschiger, was reportedly done against legal advice, further suggesting that these commissioners are making rash and legally questionable decisions.
John West has repeatedly claimed that consolidating the IT and Emergency Management departments under Sellers saved the County $95,000 per year. However, the fiscal 2025 budget shows the opposite: a 35.3% increase in the com-
Candidate Chris Barnett Faces Allegations
By: Clayton Moore
In a race already rife with tension, County Commissioner candidate Chris Barnett finds himself at the center of a growing controversy over his handling of public discourse, transparency, and truthfulness. As the community seeks accountability from its leaders, Barnett’s pattern of evasion, censorship, and manipulation is drawing comparisons to the tactics of current White House Press Secretary Karine JeanPierre—skilled in spinning narratives to deflect criticism, while gaslighting those who challenge her assertions. Like Jean-Pierre, Barnett seems to present himself as a people’s champion until the narrative no longer serves his interests.
Barnett’s campaign has come under fire for allegedly suppressing free speech, particularly when the questions posed to him challenge his policies or put him in an unfavorable light. One recent incident exemplifies this issue: a local resident reached out to Barnett on social media, seeking clarification on the Michael and Daniel Sellers case—a hot-button issue within the community. Instead of addressing the matter directly, Barnett responded in circles, offering evasive answers that left the resident more confused than before. To make matters worse, Barnett later deleted the entire conversation from his social media page, where he often touts his support for “freedom of speech.” However, critics note that this support seems conditional—only applying when speech aligns with his agenda.
This gaslighting tactic—dodging straightforward questions, manipulating conversations, and controlling the narrative by silencing dissent—draws a sharp comparison to the approach often attributed to Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. Like Barnett, Jean-Pierre is frequently accused of deflecting legitimate questions with vague, rehearsed responses and shifting blame when confronted with uncomfortable truths.
Critics say Barnett’s willingness to shut down • see ALLEGATIONS, page 3
Letter to the Editor Local Silver Star Veteran Calls Out Corruption and Cronyism in Josephine
As a 20-year USMC veteran of the Global War on Terror and a Silver Star recipient who grew up in Grants Pass, I had hoped that the members of the Republican Party would uphold the same values I grew up with and lived by in the Marine Corps.
Clearly, they do not.
Even more disturbing is that it seems they are repeating the same behavior. At a recent public meeting just last month, they merged two departments—HR and Finance—without any discussion. It’s clear they had illegal meetings beforehand and had al-
Letter from the Editor
ready made up their minds. I’m willing to bet this move is intended to benefit one of their cronies with a “pay bump,” while the rest of the employees in these departments, and the county as a whole, suffer.
The amount of money Sellers is taking from taxpayers is absurd! I believe this recall is completely justified, and I hope more investigation will expose this fraud, waste, and abuse so that our beloved Josephine County can be restored to a clean bill of health.
Semper Fi, Frank S.
Time for Resignations and Accountability
Considering recent findings, it is with a deep sense of duty to the community that we call for the immediate resignation of Josephine County Commissioners John West, Herman Baertschiger, and county official Michael Sellers. The gross incompetence and illegal actions perpetrated under their leadership have reached a tipping point, necessitating decisive action to restore trust and integrity in our local government.
Recent investigations have revealed troubling violations of Oregon state law. These actions suggest a blatant disregard for the principles of transparency and accountability that are fundamental to public service. As public servants, the trust of the people is paramount, and it is clear that these individuals have violated that trust.
What we’ve uncovered is not a minor infraction, but a pattern of behavior that undermines the very fabric of gov-
ernance in Josephine County. Rather than escalating this matter solely to state authorities, which is inevitable, we believe the honorable course of action is for these officials to resign immediately. Doing so would spare the county further embarrassment and prevent the need for more costly investigations that may stretch beyond the borders of Oregon.
The people of Josephine County deserve competent, transparent leaders who act in the public interest rather than their own. It is in the best interest of the community, and in respect for the positions they hold, that John West, Herman Baertschiger, Michael Sellers, and Danielle Sellers vacate their offices and allow for leadership that values accountability, ethical conduct, and the well-being of the public they were elected and hired to serve.
The time for change is now.
Sincerely,
John Oliver - Editor-in-Chief
Allegations of Censorship, Evasion, and Manipulation
From page 1
dissenting voices on social media is part of a larger pattern of evasion. Reports indicate that he has refused to attend debates, public forums, or any meaningful engagement with the broader community. His refusal to face voters directly has led many to wonder if he is capable of defending his own positions—or if he even has any positions to defend.
Barnett’s evasiveness has only fueled further scrutiny into his potential conflicts of interest, particularly his ties to current County Commissioner John West. Although Barnett has repeatedly denied any business dealings with West, local sources insist otherwise, with an upcoming news report promising to shed more light on the relationship. The prospect of undisclosed financial ties has raised red flags about Barnett’s true intentions and loyalty to the community.
Perhaps one of the most telling aspects of Barnett’s campaign is his antagonistic relationship with local media—another hallmark of his gaslighting strategy. Barnett’s primary outlet of choice has been the Oregon Eagle, a publication known to be financially supported by Commissioners John West, Andreas Blech, and Herman Baertschiger. This cozy relationship has led to accusations that Barnett is using the Oregon Eagle as a propaganda tool to promote his narrative, rather than subjecting himself to balanced, independent coverage.
On the other hand, Barnett has aggressively attacked the Grants Pass Tribune that once allowed him to write favorable articles about himself. Initially, Barnett praised the Tribune for its coverage, but once the publication began digging into his inconsistencies and questionable claims, Barnett changed his tune. He has since labeled the Tribune as “fake news,” attempting to undermine its credibility.
In an editorial, the Tribune’s staff expressed frustration: “If you agree with Chris, you’ll be just fine. But once you disagree, he’ll attack you and label you a conspiracy theorist. It’s worth looking back to when he was singing our praises—right up until we exposed the cracks in his narrative. Then, we became the enemy.”
Beyond his contentious relationship with the press, Barnett has also been criticized for his lack of a clear policy platform. Voters are growing increasingly frustrated by his failure to outline any concrete plans or vision for the county. His refusal to participate in public debates or answer questions has only deepened the sense that his campaign is built more on rhetoric and manipulation than on any real commitment to serve the community.
Many wonder if Barnett, like Karine JeanPierre, excels in presenting a polished front but struggles when it comes to answering the hard questions. His critics argue that this lack
of transparency is disqualifying for someone seeking public office.
As the race for County Commissioner progresses, Barnett’s behavior has only intensified the divide among voters. His supporters view him as an outsider challenging the political establishment, but even that narrative is starting to crumble in light of his potential ties to sitting Commissioner John West. For many, the growing evidence of censorship, gaslighting, and manipulation makes Barnett appear less like a champion for the people and more like someone who seeks to control the narrative at all costs.
While Barnett attempts to cast himself as the victim of a “fake news” conspiracy, voters are left questioning whether his unwillingness to engage with the public is indicative of how he would govern. In an era when transparency and accountability are more important than ever, Chris Barnett’s strategy of deflection and censorship may ultimately be his undoing. Not to mention the many cease and desist letters he’s received and will continue to receive compounding into a substantial defamation lawsuit.
As election day approaches, the community watches closely. Barnett’s next steps—if he takes any—will be critical in determining whether he can salvage his reputation or if his campaign will be overwhelmed by the growing backlash against his tactics.
bined budget for these departments, amounting to $835,400 in additional costs. This significant jump in spending, coupled with lost grant opportunities, suggests that the County is paying more for less under Sellers’ leadership.
The mismanagement extends beyond just salaries and budgets. Sellers’ focus appears to be divided, as he continues to prioritize his higher-paying state jobs over his County responsibilities. This is not just a failure of leadership—it’s a betrayal of the public trust.
The cronyism, double-dipping, and disregard for proper procedure in Josephine County government are reminiscent of the infamous corruption scandal in Bell, California, where city officials were convicted of misusing public funds. Similar to Bell, Josephine County residents are being shortchanged by leaders who prioritize personal gain over public service.
In light of these facts, I call on Josephine County Commissioners and the Republican Party leadership to address these abuses. The taxpayers of Josephine County deserve transparency, accountability, and leaders who serve the public interest— not their own.
If you have thoughts or insights on these issues, I encourage you to share them with me at jay@ VoteJayCPA.com.
Understanding the Recall of Commissioner John West
WE ARE A GROUP of concerned residents committed to the recall of Commissioner John West, driven by our deep concern for the well-being of our community.
Our mission is to address and correct the leadership and decision-making issues that have negatively impacted the health and safety of our county, led to financial mismanagement, and resulted in violations of state laws.
WHY WE’RE TAKING ACTION
Our efforts are based on several key concerns:
Pipe Fork Property Sale: We believe that West engaged in bad faith negotiations over the sale of the Pipe Fork property, which not only cost the county valuable revenue but also put a vital water source for the Williams community at risk.
Disregard for Voter Will: West has consistently ignored the will of the voters by cutting essential funding for community programs such as the Oregon State U niversity Extension Service, law enforcement, and public health initiatives. These cuts have strained the very services that our residents depend on.
Legal Violations: There are serious allegations against West, including violations of state laws, campaign finance regulations, and public meeting laws. He is also facing pending ethics and labor law violations, raising significant concerns about his adherence to legal and ethical standards.
Library District Withdrawal: West unilaterally approved the county’s withdrawal from a Library District, a decision that has led to costly litigation and strained county resources.
Threats to Community Safety: West’s decisions have jeopardized community safety by reducing or eliminating critical emergency preparedness programs, including scaling back the Firewise program, cutting the Emergency Management program, and removing fire safety standards for property development.
Questionable Hiring Practices: We are concerned that West has prioritized political loyalty over merit by appointing unqualified political allies to key county positions, compromising the effectiveness of our local government.
OUR VISION
We envision a county where leadership is accountable, transparent, and truly representative of the community’s best interests. Our recall effort is a step towards restoring integrity in local governance and ensuring that our county’s future is guided by ethical and responsible decision-making.
HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED
As we continue to gather support for this recall, we encourage all community members who share our concerns to join us in this important effort. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that our county is governed by leaders who prioritize the well-being of all residents.
MOVING FORWARD
The recall of Commissioner John West is about more than just addressing past actions; it’s about setting a new standard for leadership in our county. If we can join together and collect enough petition signatures from Josephine County voters, the recall ballot measure will appear on a special election ballot in December 2024. You will see by the facts behind our petition points that Commissioner John West has cost the citizens millions just in his first 19 months in office. If enough of our fellow voters agree, we are justified in bringing this special election before voters because Josephine County cannot afford two more years of the extremely costly decision-making of Commissioner John West.
SPECIAL POLITICAL REPORT:
Meet the Four Remaining Candidates for Josephine County Commissioner
By: John Oliver
Chris Barnett, a 43-year resident of Josephine County, has advanced to the final round of the primary election for County Commissioner. Having announced his candidacy last year, Barnett brings a long history of community involvement and professional experience. A graduate of Hidden Valley High School, Barnett attended Rogue Community College, built his career locally, and owns property in the county. He is also a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, where he attained the rank of Chief Master Sergeant, the highest Non-Commissioned Officer rank.
Barnett has built a reputation as an entrepreneur and community leader. He owns and operates two businesses in Josephine County: Realty Executives Southern Oregon, a real estate firm, and Hommati.com #222, a real estate photography and video company. His leadership roles extend into community service, where he volunteers with the Sheriff’s Department and the Oregon State Police. He has also served on the Grants Pass Chamber of Commerce and as a board member for the Grants Pass Association of Realtors. Barnett was Vice President of the Enlisted Association of the National Guard Oregon, reflecting his commitment to both his community and the military.
In addition to his business and volunteer work, Barnett has been a long-time part of the local broadcasting scene, hosting a Saturday morning show on KLDR FM and an afternoon segment on KAJO FM.
Throughout his campaign, Barnett has emphasized his deep roots in the community and his desire to improve local government. He cites his experience in the U.S. Air Force, Oregon Air National Guard, and the Air Force Reserve, as well as his current role as Command Chief for the Pacific Region Air Force Auxiliary Civil Air Patrol, as key to his leadership abilities.
Barnett, who is married to Grants Pass native Stefani Barnett and has three daughters, believes his experience and passion for public service make him well-suited to serve as County Commissioner. His platform focuses on addressing the county’s ongoing challenges with
budgeting, funding, and restoring trust in local government. He aims to strengthen Josephine County while working to improve areas that need attention.
"My goal is to restore faith in our county government and to represent you, the people of Josephine County," Barnett stated during his campaign, highlighting his commitment to serving the community he calls home.
Patrick D. Fahey, a longtime resident of Grants Pass, is vying for the role of Josephine County Commissioner. His candidacy is built on decades of business leadership, community service, and a deep-rooted connection to the region. Born and raised in Grants Pass, Fahey holds a degree in Accounting from Southern Oregon University, and his professional and civic contributions have shaped his platform for county governance.
Fahey’s career spans over 20 years as the general manager and owner of Southern Oregon Sanitation and Sutherlin Sanitary Service. His work in these roles not only strengthened the region’s infrastructure but also enhanced environmental sustainability. His experience in running large-scale operations provides him with a unique perspective on how to manage complex county operations, ensuring fiscal responsibility and organizational efficiency.
“I have a proven background as someone who knows how to successfully run a large operation,” Fahey says. “That experience will serve me well when dealing with the intricacies of county government as Josephine County Commissioner.”
In addition to his business leadership, Fahey has been a dedicated advocate for education. As an elected board member of Rogue Community College (RCC), he has championed career training and job creation as key to community development. He is also a member of the Josephine Community Library board, highlighting his belief in the transformative power of education and literacy for regional progress.
Fahey’s platform includes plans to restore morale in local government, emphasizing the need for transparency and efficiency. He is particularly focused on re-
forming the county’s planning and building departments, which he views as major obstacles to progress. Delays, inefficiencies, and subjective decision-making have created barriers for local contractors, and Fahey is determined to simplify the application process to spur economic growth.
He also advocates for a more transparent allocation of economic development funds and criticizes the high fees that discourage new construction. In Fahey’s view, duplicative processes such as redundant fire protection assessments further burden the local economy. His goal is to foster open, bipartisan dialogue and rebuild strained relationships with city, state, and federal agencies, including the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service.
Revitalizing Josephine County’s economy is a core aspect of Fahey’s campaign. With traditional industries like logging and mining in decline, Fahey aims to attract new businesses and support existing employers. He believes that a more business-friendly environment, fewer regulatory hurdles, and solutions to the affordable housing crisis will be pivotal in promoting growth.
“Niche manufacturers such as Rogue Truck Bodies, Playcraft Systems, Fire Mountain Gems, and Masterbrand Cabinets have had a positive impact,” Fahey explains. “But there is still much to be done.”
Public safety also ranks high on Fahey’s list of priorities. He plans to advocate for additional law enforcement resources and improve emergency response capa-
bilities. Fahey emphasizes that bolstering mental health and substance abuse treatment programs is crucial in addressing the root causes of crime. He acknowledges the dedication of local law enforcement and pledges to ensure they have the resources and training to keep the community safe.
Fahey recognizes homelessness as a growing concern in Josephine County. He has identified three main drivers: lack of affordable housing, inadequate mental health services, and the impact of Oregon’s Measure 110, which decriminalized drug use. While Fahey believes recent legislative efforts to address drug use are a step in the right direction, he insists that more needs to be done to tackle homelessness and mental health challenges. On a personal level, family is central to Fahey’s life. He has been married to his wife, Susan, a midwife, for 45 years. Together, they have raised three children— Nicholas, Grant, and Christina. Fahey credits his family’s support as instrumental in his successes, both personally and professionally. His commitment to family is mirrored in his community work, including his leadership roles in youth organizations like the Boy Scouts.
Patrick Fahey’s candidacy for Josephine County Commissioner is built on a strong foundation of business acumen, community service, and a dedication to improving the lives of local residents. His extensive experience in managing large operations, combined with his leadership
• continued on page 7
PATRICK D. FAHEY
CHRIS BARNETT
in education and public service, makes him a candidate who understands the complexities of local governance.
In Fahey’s words, “We can make Josephine County grow and thrive, but it will take all of us working together.” His approach is one of collaboration, seeking to unite the community in addressing the county’s most pressing issues—whether they be economic, social, or related to public safety. With a comprehensive platform aimed at revitalizing Josephine County, Fahey hopes to bring his practical experience and passion for service to the Board of Commissioners.
Southern Oregon native and business advocate Colene Martin remains a key contender for the position of Josephine County Commissioner. Having advanced through the primary, Martin emphasizes a platform centered around economic growth, local business support, and community development. As a long-time resident of Grants Pass, she offers a vision aimed at revitalizing the local economy and fostering a stronger sense of community involvement.
Martin’s background includes experience as a Broker with John L. Scott in Grants Pass, as well as active participation in several local organizations, such as the Rogue Valley Association of Realtors and the Government Affairs Committees of both the Grants Pass and Josephine County Chambers of Commerce. Her work has focused on advocating for policies designed to benefit local businesses and homeowners. Her experience in real es-
tate and her involvement in business operations provide her with a perspective on the economic needs of the community.
“I’ve called Josephine County home my entire life,” Martin shared in a recent statement. “I’m dedicated to fostering an environment where businesses can thrive and residents can enjoy a safe, vibrant, and economically stable community.”
As the election nears, issues such as transparency and accountability in local government have been raised, with some residents expressing concerns over the current administration. Martin has highlighted the need for more openness in decision-making and advocates for leadership that places the community’s needs at the forefront.
In addition to addressing government transparency, Martin’s platform includes goals for economic development and housing. She stresses the importance of balancing business growth with the need
for affordable housing to ensure longterm sustainability for Josephine County. Her work with the Oregon State Chamber has given her insight into the connection between economic success and housing availability.
With a background in business, real estate, and advocacy, Colene Martin brings a combination of skills and leadership experience to her candidacy. As the final election approaches, voters are faced with choosing between continuing with the current leadership or supporting Martin’s vision for change and development in Josephine County.
Ron Smith, a candidate for Josephine County Commissioner, has deep roots in the area, with his family settling in the county over a century ago through the Homestead Act of 1862. Born in Grants Pass in 1952, Smith grew up with a strong foundation of faith, family, and patriotism.
These values shaped his lifelong commitment to improving his community.
Over the years, Smith became actively involved in organizations that aligned with his ideals, earning recognition for his leadership. In 2001, he was nominated as "Citizen of the Year" by the Illinois Valley-Cave Junction Chamber of Commerce for his work with People for the USA, a property rights advocacy group.
Smith’s civic engagement extended beyond local matters, as he worked on significant issues affecting the region. He met with Secretary of the Interior Bruce Babbitt at the Bureau of Land Management in Medford, and later traveled to Washington, D.C. to advocate for Klamath farmers facing water rights issues. There, he collaborated with prominent lawmakers, including Senators Harry Reid and Gordon Smith, and Representative Greg Walden.
In addition to his advocacy work, Smith has held various leadership roles in local organizations, including serving as the Overseer for the Grants Pass Fruitdale Grange and being an active member of the Josephine County Pomona Granges. He has also been involved with the Redwood Lions Club and the Josephine County Farm Bureau.
Smith believes that his extensive experience in community service and leadership has prepared him to effectively serve as County Commissioner for Josephine County. He aims to apply his skills and dedication to addressing the county’s needs and promote the well-being of its residents.
COLNE MARTIN
RON SMITH
LMS Motorsports Destroyed in Early Morning Fire
Source: Grants Pass Fire Department
A devastating commercial structure fire early Thursday morning completely destroyed LMS Motorsports, a well-known business located on Rogue River Highway. Firefighters from both Grants Pass Fire and Rural Metro Fire were dispatched to the scene shortly after midnight.
The first engine arrived within just one minute of the initial call, but despite the swift response, the blaze had already engulfed the entire building. Fire crews worked diligently to contain the fire, but the intensity of the flames left LMS Motorsports beyond saving.
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire, and an investigation is currently underway. No injuries were reported, but the destruction of the business is a significant loss to the community. LMS Motorsports, known for its automotive services and racing parts, had been a staple for motorsports enthusiasts in the area.
Firefighters remained on scene throughout the night, ensuring that the fire was fully extinguished and preventing it from spreading to neighboring structures. The quick response by both Grants Pass Fire and Rural Metro Fire helped prevent further
damage to nearby businesses and homes.
This tragic incident marks a major blow to local commerce, as LMS Motorsports had served the Rogue River Highway area for years. Community members expressed their condolences to the owners and staff, with many reflecting on the significant impact the business had on the local motorsports community. Further updates on the investigation and the future of LMS Motorsports are expected in the coming days.
Celebrating a Century and More: Bell Pepper Turns 105
Grants Pass Tribune Sits Down with Bell and Her Niece, Bonnie Lynam.
Today marks a special milestone for Bell Pepper, a longtime resident of Grants Pass, as she celebrates her 105th birthday. Born in 1919, Bell has lived through more than a century of history and change. To commemorate the occasion, The Grants Pass Tribune had planned to ask Bell a few questions about her life. However, upon our arrival, we learned that Bell is now legally deaf. Fortunately, her niece, Bonnie Lynam, graciously stepped in to share stories and answer our questions.
Bell, who has been a part of the Grants Pass community for 45 years, originally hails from Newtown, Pennsylvania. She moved here in her later years and has since become a beloved figure in her neighborhood. Bell was married to the late Don Pepper and lived a full life, never smoking or drinking—a lifestyle her niece credits for Bell’s vitality. Even now, Bell remains feisty, known to still dance down the hall with her walker, much to the amusement of those around her.
When asked about the most significant changes she’s witnessed in her lifetime, Bell’s stories spanned the invention of the refrigerator to the arrival of the television set. "I remember when people used iceboxes to keep things cold," Bonnie recalled on Bell’s behalf. "And now we have refrigerators and delivery services—everything has changed." Though born on the East Coast, Bell’s heart is firmly rooted in Grants Pass, where she has seen the town grow and evolve over the past four and a half decades.
While Bell may not be able to offer her advice directly, her niece shared some words of wisdom based on the life her aunt has led. "She always believed in moderation and being active," Bonnie said. "Bell never drank or smoked, and she’s still full of life at 105." In addition to her active lifestyle, Bell had a passion for raising Pomeranian show dogs, a hobby that kept her busy and engaged with her community.
Looking back on her life, one of Bell's fondest memories is camping and fishing trips with her twin sister, Donna Marshall, who passed away at the age of 85. "They came from a big family of 10," Bonnie shared. "But Bell and Donna were inseparable. They loved spending time outdoors, enjoying nature." These adventures are some of the highlights of Bell’s life, and they are a testament to the strong bond she shared with her twin sister.
At 105, Bell still enjoys the simple things in life. Her favorite treats? " Ice cream, potato chips, and Pepsi," said Bonnie with a smile. "She’s always had a sweet tooth, and she’s never given up her love for ice cream."
As we wrapped up our visit, it was clear that Bell’s life is a testament to resilience, joy, and an unwavering spirit. Her advice to live moderately, her fond memories of time spent with loved ones, and her enduring love for life’s small pleasures are an inspiration to us all.
Happy 105th birthday, Bell Pepper—here’s to many more!
5 DAY OUTLOOK
SOURCE: WEATHER.COM
SUNDAY
MONDAY
Partly cloudy 74/45
TUESDAY
Cloudy with showers 68/53
WEDNESDAY
Partly cloudy, showers possible 74/47
THURSDAY
Bell Pepper
