The Millionaire Commissioners: Who Are They Really Serving?
By: John Oliver
In a time when many Josephine County residents are struggling to make ends meet, the question begs to be asked: Why are all three current county commissioners, along with County Commissioner hopeful Chris Barnett, all millionaires? What drives these wealthy individuals to pursue public office, where the salary is approximately $98,000 a year—far less than what their businesses generate? Is their intent truly to serve the public, or is there something more sinister at play?
Take, for example, Chris Barnett, the latest candidate for County Commissioner. Barnett already wears many hats, holding an estimated 10 different positions in various business ventures. How could anyone with such a busy schedule possibly have time to effectively serve the community in a role that requires total commitment? County Commissioners make decisions that affect thousands of lives. The notion that Barnett could competently juggle his businesses while dedicating himself fully to county issues seems, at best, implausible.
And it’s not just Barnett. Current commissioners like Andreas Blech and Herman Baertschiger are also multimillionaires with significant investments in the region. Baertschiger, in particular, has long held a negative and dismissive tone toward many of his constituents, yet he continues to sit in power. Why would these individuals—who could easily retire or focus on their own business empires—choose public service? Are they really sacrificing personal gain for the greater good?
Unfortunately, many residents are waking up to a more troubling possibility: the county’s leadership is riddled with cronyism, nepotism, and backdoor deals. It seems increasingly likely that the real motivation for these individuals to seek public office is to exploit their positions for personal and financial gain. Commissioners who are themselves business owners and property developers have clear conflicts of interest when it comes to approving new developments or contracts. The latest example of this troubling pattern is County Commissioner John West’s appointment of Robert Stumbo to the Mining Commission. After appointing Stumbo, West had to immediately recuse himself due to a conflict of interest—a conflict that was known beforehand. So why appoint him in the first place?
What many are beginning to fear is that these individuals are not interested in serving the public at all. Their true agenda might be far more self-serving. The suggestion is that they are using their power as commissioners to push forward projects that benefit themselves and their wealthy friends, while ordinary residents are left to shoulder the burden of rising costs and stagnating services. Real estate, land deals, and resource extraction seem to be the common threads running through their actions.
It’s time to ask ourselves: Who are these men really working for?
Wake Up, Grants Pass!
Until the community of Grants Pass and Josephine County realizes the gravity of this situation, the damage will continue. These millionaire commis-
sioners have vested interests that conflict with the public good. Their actions suggest they are less interested in building a sustainable and prosperous future for everyone and more interested in lining their own pockets. Their influence stretches far, and their decisions shape the very fabric of the community. If we don’t wake up to this reality, we risk watching as our town and county are slowly stripped of its resources, wealth, and potential—all for the benefit of a few. The time for complacency is over. It’s time to demand transparency, accountability, and a government that truly serves the people, not just the wealthy elite.
Whoops, Cars Can't Run on Mandates
By: James Justice
Earlier this year, the Biden administration introduced an ambitious plan to reduce CO2 emissions, sparking significant debate within the automotive industry. The proposal aimed for gas-powered vehicles to comprise no more than 30% of new car sales by 2032, prompting many to perceive it as a de facto phase-out of internal combustion engines. While the administration denied implementing an electric vehicle (EV) mandate, the strategy would effectively push the market toward widespread EV adoption. In 2023, only about 8% of cars sold were electric, illustrating the uphill challenge the industry faces in meeting the administration's targets. Shifting such a significant portion of the market to battery-powered vehicles within just eight years would require a substantial transformation in manufacturing, infrastructure, and consumer behavior. The rapid transition has raised concerns among automakers, workers, and political leaders alike.
The policy shift has not only affected the automotive sector but also the political landscape, par-
• see CAR, page 5
Tight Race Between Trump and Harris as Election Nears
By: Gary Blakenship
With the 2024 Presidential Election just over a month away, the race between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris is incredibly close, reflecting the deep political divisions in the country. Recent polling data shows Harris holding a narrow lead in national surveys, with 49.1% support compared to Trump’s 47.1%. However, these figures can fluctuate, and both candidates are working to sway undecided voters in the final weeks.
As is often the case in U.S. presidential elections, key battleground states will play a pivotal role in determining the outcome. States such as Arizona, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin have emerged as critical in this election, with margins between the two candidates within a few percentage points.
In Arizona, Harris has a slight advantage, but Trump remains close behind, making the state highly competitive. Similarly, Pennsylvania, which was a key state in the 2020 election, is once again a focal point for both campaigns. Georgia and Wisconsin are also proving to be tight races, with polling data indicating nearly equal levels of support for both candidates.
These states, which carry a substantial number of Electoral College votes, could tip the balance in what may become one of the closest elections in recent history.
Adding further uncertainty to the race are third-party candidates, who could siphon votes from both Trump and Harris, especially in the swing states. Although their support is relatively minor, third-party candidates have historically influenced tight elections. According to analysts, the presence of these candidates could be a deciding factor in critical states, where even a small percentage of the vote can change the overall outcome.
Swing voters are another key group that both campaigns are targeting. As the political landscape remains highly polarized, the small percentage of voters who remain undecided could hold immense sway over the final result. Both Trump and Harris have ramped up their efforts in the battleground states to appeal to this group, using campaign ads, rallies, and targeted mes-
saging in an effort to win over these voters.
With the race tightening, voter turnout will be crucial. High participation rates in previous elections have shown that engaged voters can sway outcomes significantly. Both campaigns are urging their supporters to ensure they are registered and informed about voting procedures, particularly in states where mail-in voting and early voting are popular.
Ensuring your voter registration is up-to-date is vital as deadlines approach. Some states allow for same-day registration, while others have more stringent cutoffs. It is important for voters to check their registration status, particularly if they have recently moved or changed personal details.
The 2024 election is shaping up to be one of the most consequential in modern U.S. history. The contrasting political platforms of the two can-
didates — with Trump focusing on immigration, economic policies, and law enforcement, and Harris advocating for climate action, healthcare reform, and civil rights — highlight the significant policy shifts that could follow the election’s result.
Given the narrow polling margins, this election underscores the importance of every vote. Voters are encouraged to stay informed and make sure they understand where both candidates stand on the key issues. With just over a month remaining, the race is expected to tighten even further, leaving little room for error as both campaigns make their final pushes.
Voters who are uncertain about their registration status or voting procedures should reach out to local election offices or community representatives for guidance. Ensuring a well-informed electorate is crucial as America prepares to decide its future leadership.
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NEWS DESK
Biofire Smart Gun: A New Era of Firearm Safety with Instant Access Technology
By: Ellen Ward
The Biofire Smart Gun, a newly developed 9mm firearm, brings advanced technology to gun ownership by prioritizing both safety and instant accessibility. Equipped with a proprietary Guardian Biometric Engine, the smart gun integrates fingerprint and 3D facial recognition systems to ensure that only authorized users can operate it. This technology allows the firearm to instantly unlock as soon as it is picked up by an enrolled user, eliminating the need for codes or buttons, and offering quick access in high-pressure situations.
Designed with home defense in mind, the Biofire Smart Gun addresses a critical safety concern by automatically locking the moment it leaves the user’s hand. Whether it’s set down or taken by someone unauthorized, the firearm secures itself, reducing the risk of accidents, misuse, or tragic outcomes, particularly in the hands of children or criminals.
The smart gun can be personalized for multiple users, enabling households with more than one authorized owner to safely share the firearm. Despite its cutting-edge security features, the Biofire Smart Gun functions just like a traditional firearm for authorized users, offering a seamless experience while adding an extra layer of protection.
Biofire’s team consists of gun owners, engineers, and parents who bring expertise from industries like aerospace, medical devices, and defense systems. Their goal is to create firearms that balance safety and functionality, addressing the modern gun owner’s need for both secure storage and instant readiness.
With its combination of lightning-fast biometrics and automatic locking technology, the Biofire Smart Gun represents a significant advancement in firearm safety. It offers peace of mind to users who want to ensure their firearm is always accessible when needed, yet completely secure from unauthorized hands.
Man Arrested After Traffic Stop Leads to Seizure of Nearly Half a Million Fentanyl-Laced Pills
GPT News Desk
Last Tuesday afternoon, an Oregon State Trooper arrested a man following the discovery of a large quantity of fentanyl-laced pills in his vehicle, according to a statement from the Oregon State Police (OSP).
The incident occurred around 1 p.m. when the trooper stopped a Volkswagen SUV for a traffic violation on Interstate 5 in Douglas County. During the stop, the trooper reportedly became suspicious of potential criminal activity. Upon conducting a search of the vehicle, law enforcement uncovered nearly half a million pills believed to be laced with fentanyl.
The suspect was taken into custody, though authorities have not yet released further details regarding the man's identity or the specific charges he may face. The investigation is ongoing.
This seizure highlights the continuing efforts by law enforcement to combat the trafficking of fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid that has been linked to a significant rise in overdose deaths across the United States. OSP and local authorities have been ramping up enforcement along major transportation routes in response to the growing prevalence of fentanyl-related drug activity in the region.
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.
Walz and Vance to Face Off in High-Stakes Vice Presidential Debate
By: Jason Foley
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (D) and Ohio Senator JD Vance (R) are set to square off in their first and only vice presidential debate on Tuesday, hosted by CBS News. The event, taking place at CBS’s New York office, will mark the first time the two running mates directly engage in a debate format, following months of exchanges on the campaign trail.
The debate, moderated by CBS anchor Norah O'Donnell and "Face the Nation" host Margaret Brennan, is expected to cover a range of pressing national issues. Walz, the Democratic nominee, has frequently criticized Vance and
former President Trump as "weird," while Vance has repeatedly questioned Walz’s military record. These tensions are expected to take center stage during the 90-minute showdown, which begins at 9 p.m. EDT.
Both campaigns have agreed to the debate’s rules, which were finalized last week. Walz will stand on the right side of the stage from the viewers’ perspective, while Vance will occupy the left. As the candidate representing the incumbent party, Walz will be introduced first.
This debate will be a crucial opportunity for both candidates to make their case to voters, with each aiming to bolster their party’s standing in the lead-up to the election.
Car Mandates: The Push for EVs and Industry Concerns
ticularly for Vice President Kamala Harris. Known for supporting progressive policies during her first presidential campaign, Harris has been adjusting her stance as she prepares for another possible run for the Oval Office. She now finds herself in a delicate position, needing to balance the administration's green energy goals with the realities of swing states like Michigan, where the auto industry remains a vital economic force.
In a notable shift, Harris recently emphasized that she does not support an EV mandate, despite earlier promoting the Biden administration’s electric vehicle initiatives. Her campaign has highlighted how the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act provided subsidies and tax credits for EV production and clean energy jobs in Michigan. However, the act, which was designed to curb inflation and promote green energy, has been criticized for its slow economic impact.
Former President Donald Trump, meanwhile, has taken a different approach, seizing on concerns about the rapid transition to electric vehicles. Trump has criticized the so-called "EV mandates," framing them as elitist and cautioning that China could gain an edge in the global automotive industry if the U.S. moves too quickly in this direction. Instead of a forced transition, Trump advocates for a mixed approach, suggesting that the market should include electric vehicles, hybrids, and gasoline-powered cars.
"EVs might be 7 or 8 percent of the market," Trump remarked, arguing that consumer choice should drive the adoption of different technol-
ogies rather than government mandates. His stance appears more aligned with current market realities, as electric vehicles remain a small fraction of total car sales.
Automakers have expressed mixed reactions to the Biden administration’s push for EVs. While major companies like Ford, General Motors, and Tesla have made significant investments in electric vehicle production, many remain concerned about the rapid timeline and the necessary infrastructure changes, such as the expansion of charging stations. Additionally, the EV market still faces hurdles, including higher upfront costs, limited range, and long charging times compared to traditional gas-powered cars.
The proposal has also sparked concerns among autoworkers, particularly in key states like Michigan, where the shift to electric vehicles could lead to job losses in traditional manufacturing sectors. Electric vehicles require fewer parts and less labor to produce, raising fears of plant closures and layoffs in communities dependent on the automotive industry.
The ongoing debate highlights the complexity of transitioning the U.S. automotive market to a more sustainable future. While the Biden administration remains committed to reducing carbon emissions, the rapid timeline for EV adoption poses significant challenges for the industry, workers, and consumers. With political stakes high and economic factors in play, the future of the U.S. automotive market will likely continue to be a key issue in the 2024 presidential election and beyond.
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Local Artists and Fine Crafters Form
New Co-Op to Secure Creative Space
By: Jason Foley
In an exciting new development, a group of 235 local artists and fine crafters from Southern Oregon and Northern California have come together to form a new cooperative, spearheaded by Anna M. Chauffe, the visionary behind The Creator's Gallery and Boutique. The project, which has been in the works for some time, aims to establish a community-driven organization, fostering collaboration and supporting local artisans through shared resources and a membership-based structure.
While the initial goal was to secure an entire building for the co-op, the team has successfully gained a foothold, with plans to continue growing and possibly expand in the future. Chauffe remains optimistic, saying, "As long as we’re getting our feet caught in the door, that's fine by me. You never know what will happen in the future."
To fully secure the space and cover startup expenses, the
co-op is currently raising funds and seeking sponsorships. Additionally, they are looking for private lenders willing to work with them as they bring this community vision to life. A Letter of Intent and a business plan have already been submitted, and the project is now moving into the structural phase.
With a 45-day due diligence period ahead, Chauffe encourages other local artists and fine crafters to get involved, emphasizing the importance of unity in this endeavor. "It’s been a long road, but we’re ready to finalize," she added, calling on fellow creators to participate and contribute where they feel inspired.
As the co-op continues to evolve, it promises to provide a vibrant space for artistic collaboration and growth in the region. The community eagerly awaits what comes next for this ambitious project.
For more information, interested parties can contact Anna M. Chauffe at The Creator's Gallery and Boutique.
Board Appoints Robert Stumbo to Mining Advisory Committee
Amid Conflict-ofInterest Concerns
By: Leaf Barret
A recent County Board meeting led to the appointment of Robert Stumbo to the Mining Advisory Committee, which raised concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest. Commissioner John West abstained from voting due to his personal and business connections with Stumbo. These ties include joint ventures in property ownership and activities
in mining and timber harvesting.
There have been rumors and concerns about illegal activities on properties linked to Stumbo and West, leading to questions about the propriety of the nomination. During the hearing, West acknowledged the conflict, recusing himself to avoid any appearance of impropriety. This decision has drawn public criticism, with residents questioning the overall integrity of the appointment process.
Many believe the County Board should have considered other candidates without close ties to officials, calling for a review to
ensure transparency. Concerns about the potential for favoritism and conflicts of interest remain prevalent, as community members seek assurances that future appointments are handled with impartiality and fairness. The situation has prompted discussions about whether ethical standards are being properly upheld in county decision-making processes.
The broader issue at hand is whether local government officials are adequately addressing concerns of bias and accountability in such appointments.
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