Division, Censorship, and Allegations in the Josephine County Commissioner Race
By: John Oliver
The race for County Commissioner in Josephine County is intensifying, with current Commissioner John West and candidate Chris Barnett facing serious allegations about their connections, censorship tactics, and questionable practices. Both have come under scrutiny from residents who claim their shared history in real estate and overlapping political interests raise concerns about transparency and potential conflicts of interest.
Recently, West and Barnett suggested that efforts to recall West amounted to election interference, but the claim has been met with skepticism. The recall committee comprises members from various political backgrounds, including Republicans, Democrats, and Independents, making it difficult to pin the recall on any one faction. Committee members argue that these allegations serve as a distraction from valid concerns about the candidates' transparency and accountability.
The connection between West and Barnett extends over 15 years, primarily rooted in real estate dealings. This long-standing relationship has fueled speculation that, if elected, Barnett would be an extension of West’s influence rather than an independent voice. West's enthusiastic support of Barnett has raised red flags, particularly given their shared legal representation and history.
Barnett has faced accusations of suppressing free speech by blocking and deleting critical comments on social media.
Many locals claim that when they post questions or criticisms — their comments are removed, and they are blocked from further engagement. This behavior, they argue, contradicts Barnett's claims of supporting free speech and transparency.
Barnett's lack of knowledge about local government became evident during a social media exchange in which he insulted former County Commissioner Keith Heck, apparently unaware of Heck's significant contributions to the community, including his work with the Gospel Rescue Mission. This incident has led some to question Barnett's readiness for the role of County Commissioner.
Residents have noted that Barnett's campaign expenditures could surpass the annual salary of a County Commissioner, leading some to question his true motivations. If the
campaign is genuinely about serving the community, they argue, the excessive spending on advertisements and legal efforts to silence those that oppose him appears inconsistent. Additionally, the use of the same attorney as West for a potential lawsuit against the Grants Pass Tribune has only deepened skepticism about their shared interests.
Barnett has also faced allegations of "Stolen Valor," a term used to describe exaggerations or false claims about military service. Locals claim he previously implied that the nickname "Commander" came from his military service, while he now states it was merely a radio “moniker” or persona. This shifting narrative has raised doubts about his honesty, with some seeing it as an attempt to embellish his background for political gain.
Barnett's past real estate activities, including a disputed "short sale flopping" involving a property at 272 Oakdale Drive, located in Grants Pass, have come under scrutiny. The case, involving allegations of fraud and unethical practices, could resurface in ongoing legal disputes with the Grants Pass Tribune. Coupled with the fact that Barnett and West share an attorney who has a $1.5 million judgment, these issues have intensified concerns about their motives.
West has also been criticized for his involvement in reversing the sale of the Pipe Fork property to a conservancy group. Initially set for preservation, the land was instead added to a
Pipe Fork Negotiations Break Down, Land Now Headed for Auction
By: Leaf Barret
The ongoing negotiations over the sale of the Pipe Fork property have officially collapsed, leaving many Josephine County residents outraged. The county commissioners, led by John West, have now announced plans to auction off the land at a price significantly lower than offers previously made by the Williams Community Forest Project and The Conservation Fund. These groups had engaged in what they believed were “good faith” negotiations to acquire the property for conservation purposes.
The breakdown in talks has sparked renewed protests, with demonstrators gathering at the Growers Market yesterday to voice their opposition to the sale. The protesters argue that auctioning the land, potentially for timber extraction or mineral exploitation, contradicts the community's wishes and disregards previous offers aimed at preserving the property for environmental and recreational use. Critics have accused West of ignoring public sentiment and prioritizing private interests over the community’s well-being.
This dispute over Pipe Fork has become a significant issue in the ongoing recall effort against Commissioner John West. Detractors point to his "taxation without representation" approach, suggesting that the sale exemplifies his tendency to dismiss the community's input. The Williams Community Forest Project and The Conservation Fund had both proposed higher bids for the property, aiming to protect the land from commercial development and maintain it as a community resource.
Protesters argue that West’s decision to proceed with an auction reflects a consistent pattern of disregarding the public's voice, echoing broader grievances over how the county is being managed. The recall campaign has emphasized these concerns, portraying West as out of touch with the needs and desires of Josephine County residents.
The county's decision to move forward with the auction has
also raised questions about transparency and governance, with residents and conservation advocates demanding more accountability from their elected officials. The situation at Pipe Fork symbolizes a deeper struggle over land use, environmental conservation, and the balance of power in local government. As the auction date approaches, the controversy is likely to intensify, with implications for the future of Josephine County's leadership.
To speak up and oppose this measure, residents are being urged to attend this week’s Board of Commissioner’s meeting at the Anne Basker Auditorium on Wednesday, October 30th, 2024, at 9:00 am.
By: John Oliver
Though it may not be a household name yet, Rentec Direct has made a significant impact on the national stage, evolving from a small Grants Pass startup into a major success story. With a journey marked by innovation and growth, Rentec is poised to become another remarkable achievement for the Grants Pass community.
Rentec Direct has grown from a small startup into a major player in the property management software industry. Founded in 2007 by local entrepreneur, and real estate investor Nathan Miller, the company has steadily expanded over the years to become the third-largest provider of property management software in the United States. Today, Rentec Direct employs nearly 20 Southern Oregon residents and generates over $10 million in annual revenue, making it a key contributor to the local economy.
The company’s rise to prominence in the property management software sector has been marked by a strong commitment to inno-
COLENE MARTIN FOR
Josephine County Commissioner Position # 2
MY BACKGROUND
27 YEARS BUSINESS
OWNER OF PHOTO DEN CURRENTLY AT JOHN L SCOTT
12 YEARS OF WORKING WITH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE AND BUSINESS
30+ YEARS OF VOLUNTEER ACTIVE BOARD LEADERSHIP
My priority is pragmatic problem-solving, and good governance.
I have proven leadership with decades of successes at the state and local levels.
I am asking for your vote in Novemeber.
Colene Martin
MY POSITIONS ON CURRENT ISSUES
BUDGET & FINANCE
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Transparency and clarity to the citizens, budget committee and the staff is essential Fiscal responsibility, with efficiencies in current budgets I am dedicated to keeping our county sound and affordable for our residents
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
We need to be an innovative and a forward-thinking community, supporting our business community and employees I am looking forward to seeing the Fairgrounds becoming an economic driver to our community. Expanding and utilizing our airports, there is an opportunity and need for job training in the flight industry as well as for the hobbyist. Maintaining and improving our parks to serve the families and their activities Illinois Valley is growing, and the vibe out there is brilliant, they want to enrich their community & support their neighbors Supporting our organic and agriculture industry
INSURING OUR COMMUNITIES SAFETY
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My unwavering commitment to the safety of our community drives my vision. I’ll work tirelessly to fortify law-enforcement staff and resources for our Sheriff and the jail
HOUSING/HOMELESS
I will collaborate with existing building programs, nonprofits and healthcare workers to see how we can expand these crucial services in our county. We need a comprehensivecommon sense approach while respecting the rights of property owners
For more info Electcolenemartin.com Paid for Friends of Colene Martin # 23406
NATIONAL NEWS
FDA Issues Recall for Popular Antidepressant Due to Potential Cancer Risk
By: Jason Foley
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a Class II recall of over 7,000 bottles of duloxetine, a widely used antidepressant, because of the presence of a potentially cancer-causing chemical impurity. The recall was initiated on October 10, 2024, after the discovery of N-nitroso-duloxetine, a type of nitrosamine impurity, in the medication. Nitrosamines are chemicals commonly found in trace amounts in various foods and water, but long-term exposure to higher levels has been linked to an increased risk of cancer.
Duloxetine, commonly sold under brand names like Cymbalta, is prescribed for the treatment of anxiety, depression, and some chronic pain conditions. The FDA's findings have raised concerns about the safety of the affected medication, specifically the duloxetine delayed-release capsules. The recall involves lot number #220128, with an expiration date of December 2024, totaling 7,107 bottles. This is classified as a Class II recall, which means that the product might cause "temporary or medically reversible" adverse health effects, though the likelihood of serious harm is considered low.
Nitrosamines have been a recurring issue in the pharmaceutical industry, leading to previous recalls of other medications such as valsartan, a blood pressure medication, Zantac, used for heartburn relief, and metformin, which treats diabetes. Although nitrosamines occur naturally in the environment, the FDA has established acceptable daily intake limits for these impurities in drugs to minimize the potential cancer risk from long-term exposure.
The FDA noted that taking medications containing low levels of nitrosamines is not expected to be harmful. However, prolonged exposure above the established safety limits can increase cancer risk. In the case of duloxetine, the impurity levels detected in the affected lot exceeded what is considered acceptable, prompting the recall.
For patients currently taking duloxetine from the recalled lot, the FDA advises discontinuing use immediately and consulting with a healthcare professional for guidance on alternative treatment options. It is crucial for patients not to stop their medication without first discussing it with
a healthcare provider, as abruptly discontinuing an antidepressant can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a resurgence of anxiety and depression symptoms.
Healthcare providers can assist in determining if a patient's prescription is from the affected lot and can recommend an alternative antidepressant if necessary. Pharmacists are also being informed of the recall to help guide patients in identifying and replacing the recalled product. The FDA's recall of duloxetine is part of a larger trend of nitrosamine-related recalls in recent years. As pharmaceutical companies work to improve manufacturing processes and detect impurities more effectively, the FDA continues to monitor the presence of nitrosamines in various drugs. For patients, the agency's recommendations highlight the importance of consulting healthcare professionals regarding any concerns about medication safety.
While the risk from the duloxetine recall is considered low, the incident serves as a reminder for consumers to stay informed about medication recalls and follow up with their healthcare providers. For those who have been taking the affected lot of duloxetine, medical consultation is essential to ensure continued safety and effective management of their mental health conditions.
For more details on the recall and updates, patients and healthcare providers can visit the FDA's official website or contact their pharmacy for assistance.
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.
Source: News desk
Vice President Kamala Harris has come under scrutiny for repeatedly making misleading claims in speeches and debates regarding tax rates for billionaires. One recent statement asserted that "teachers and nurses and firefighters are paying a higher tax rate than billionaires," a claim that fact-checkers have found to be inaccurate.
Harris has made tax reform a central element of her policy agenda, arguing that the current tax system disproportionately benefits the wealthiest Americans. She has highlighted this issue in the context of the Biden administration's broader fiscal strategy, which aims to increase taxes on high-income earners and corporations while expand-
ing the child tax credit to support working families.
The Vice President's position is aligned with President Joe Biden’s FY 2025 budget proposal, which calls for higher tax rates on individuals earning over $400,000 per year and corpora-
tions, alongside other measures intended to address economic inequality.
The administration contends that these changes will help fund social programs and reduce the federal deficit.
However, the claim about billionaires paying lower tax rates than middle-in-
Trump Focuses on Rallies and Policy Attacks in Final Stretch of Presidential Race
Source: News desk
With just nine days until the election, Donald Trump is intensifying his campaign efforts, taking a different approach from his opponent, Kamala Harris, in the race for the presidency. While Harris, the current Vice President, has emphasized policy discussions and targeted outreach events, Trump has continued his signature style of largescale rallies and direct criticisms of the current administration's policies.
In recent weeks, Trump has held a series of rallies across key battleground states, focusing on energizing his base and drawing attention to economic concerns, immigration, and foreign policy. At these events, he has frequently criticized the Biden-Harris administration’s handling of issues such as inflation, border security, and international relations. He argues that his policies, particularly tax cuts and deregulation, would better position the country for economic recovery.
Trump’s approach contrasts with Harris’s focus on smaller, targeted
events, where she has discussed issues like healthcare, climate change, and social justice. While Harris aims to build support among specific demographic groups, Trump’s strategy seeks to create momentum by drawing large crowds and maximizing media coverage.
The former president has also distinguished himself by emphasizing a "law and order" message and calling for tougher immigration enforcement, contrasting Harris’s stance on criminal justice reform and a more humanitarian approach to immigration policy.
Trump continues to appeal to vot-
ers dissatisfied with the status quo, framing himself as the candidate who can "restore America’s greatness." He has frequently referenced his previous term’s economic record, while criticizing the current administration’s fiscal policies.
As the election nears, the stark differences in campaign styles reflect the broader contrasts in the candidates' political messages. With both sides making their final push, the outcome will likely hinge on which strategy resonates more with undecided voters and turnout efforts across crucial states.
come earners has been questioned by fact-checkers, who note that while some wealthy individuals may pay a lower effective tax rate due to capital gains and other income sources, the overall federal tax system remains progressive. This means that high-income households still contribute a larger share of their income in federal taxes compared to lower-income groups.
The debate over tax reform continues to be a contentious issue in Washington, with differing views on how best to address economic inequality. While Harris and the Biden administration advocate for a more progressive tax structure, critics argue that the claims made by some policymakers may oversimplify the complexities of the U.S. tax system.
Josephine County Commissioner Race
multi-property auction, potentially opening it up to timber extraction or mineral exploitation. Critics argue that this decision favors private interests over the community, as the auction price per acre was reportedly lower than what the conservancy group had initially offered.
Rather than addressing allegations of corruption and questionable property decisions, West and Barnett have frequently appeared on sympathetic media like the Oregon Eagle while avoiding interviews with less favorable outlets. Barnett has also been accused of contacting the Grants Pass Tribune's advertisers to withdraw their support and spreading false information about the newspaper's reporting.
Barnett and West’s frequent legal threats against the Tribune, including possible libel lawsuits, have been viewed as efforts to intimidate the press and silence criticism. Barnett's ongoing criticism of the Tribune and attempts to discredit unfavorable coverage have further heightened concerns about the candidates’ transparency.
As election day approaches, these allegations have left Josephine County voters divided. Many fear that electing Barnett could continue what some perceive as a "deep state" approach to local governance, where decisions favor select interest groups at the expense of the broader community. The candidates' responses to these allegations, and their willingness to engage with concerned residents, will play a crucial role in shaping the election's outcome.
Located in the heart of historic downtown Grants Pass.
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COMMUNITY
Tips and Resources for Senior Citizen Voting in the Elections
By: Ellen Ward
As election season approaches, senior citizens play a crucial role in shaping the future of the country. With higher voter turnout rates compared to other age groups, seniors have consistently demonstrated the power of their collective voice. However, barriers to voting, such as mobility challenges or health concerns, can pose obstacles for some elderly individuals. Fortunately, there are multiple options available to help ensure that seniors can participate in this year's elections and make their votes count.
For those who may find it difficult to leave their homes, mail-in ballots offer a practical alternative to in-person voting. Voting by mail allows seniors to fill out their ballots at home and submit them by mail without the need to visit a polling place. Many older adults have already registered for mail-in voting, but for those who haven't, it is essential to check the registration deadlines in your state. In many areas, the deadline for requesting a mail-in ballot has passed or is approaching rapidly. Ensuring that all paperwork is completed on time is key to making this option viable.
If mail-in voting is not an option, there are still resources available to help seniors get to the polls. Many communities offer rideshare programs specifically designed to transport elderly voters to and from
polling places. Some organizations, such as local senior centers or volunteer groups, provide free or low-cost rides to polling locations on Election Day. Additionally, services like Uber and Lyft often run special programs to offer discounted or even free rides for voters.
Friends and family members can also play a significant role in assisting seniors with transportation. Offering a ride to a polling place can be a simple but powerful way to help an elderly loved one exercise their right to vote.
Polling places are required by law to be accessible to all voters, including those with disabilities. For seniors with mobility or health challenges, it’s worth contacting the local election office to inquire about accessible voting options. These may include curbside voting, where election staff bring the ballot to the voter's vehicle, or designated accessible voting machines inside polling places.
Voting is not just a right; it is a responsibility, especially in times of economic, social, and political change. Seniors have a unique perspective and often face different challenges than younger generations, such as healthcare, Social Security, and senior services. Casting a ballot ensures that their voices are heard on these important issues, shaping policies that directly impact their lives and communities.
In this year’s elections, senior citizens have the opportunity to influence decisions on the local, state, and national levels. Whether through mail-in ballots, rideshare programs, or in-person voting, there are multiple avenues to participate. Every vote matters, and making the effort to cast a ballot helps protect and preserve democratic values for future generations.
To ensure a smooth voting experience, seniors should make sure they have the necessary identification and understand the local voting requirements. It is also wise to review the ballot beforehand, if possible, to be familiar with the candidates and measures.
By planning ahead and taking advantage of available resources, senior citizens can overcome obstacles to voting and continue to have a meaningful impact on the future of their communities and the country.
GRANTS PASS WEATHER
5 DAY OUTLOOK
SOURCE: WEATHER.COM
Mostly
Rentec Direct – A Grants Pass Success Story
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vation, customer service, and community involvement. Earlier this month, these values were recognized on a national stage when Nathan Miller and his team were honored by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce as one of America’s top small businesses. The recognition took place in Washington, D.C., highlighting Rentec Direct’s impact not just in the world of software, but also in contributing to the economic vitality of Southern Oregon.
Nathan Miller, a dedicated advocate for local business growth, takes great pride in the company’s ability to bring new revenue to the region. Beyond its financial success, Rentec Direct has made it a priority to reinvest in local initiatives, supporting community projects and fostering economic development in Grants Pass and surrounding areas. The company’s success story is not only about software; it’s also about building a sustainable future for the local economy.
Rentec Direct offers a suite of industry-leading property management solutions designed for real estate professionals, including landlords, property managers, and investors. The company’s software features an array of tools that make managing rental properties more efficient and user-friendly. Key offerings include online rent payment processing, an intuitive mobile app and tenant portal, vacancy listing syndication, and comprehensive accounting tools. These features aim to streamline the property management process, making life easier for clients who manage a range of properties, from single-family homes to large apartment complexes.
The company’s commitment to excellence has earned it consistent praise from customers and industry experts alike. Rentec Direct is not only the third largest in its sector but is also frequently the highest rate software by those who use it. The company’s reputation for quality and growth is further evidenced by its appearance on the Inc. 5000 list of fast-
est-growing private companies for eight consecutive years. In 2024, Rentec Direct was named Real Estate Company of the Year by the American Business Awards, further solidifying its standing as a leader in the industry.
Beyond accolades, Rentec Direct’s achievements are a testament to the power of local entrepreneurship and the importance of fostering a strong business environment in smaller communities. The recognition from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce as one of the Top 100 Small Businesses under-
scores the company’s national significance, while its ongoing success continues to bring positive attention to Grants Pass.
As Rentec Direct looks to the future, the company remains committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions for property management professionals while staying deeply rooted in the Southern Oregon community. The company’s growth story is a shining example of what can be achieved when local businesses prioritize innovation, community impact, and a dedication to quality.
NEWS DESK
Costco Recalls Five Chicken Products Amid Growing Listeria Concerns
By: Ellen Ward
A new wave of food recalls has hit Cost co, with the wholesale giant pulling five additional chicken-based products from its shelves due to concerns over potential listeria contamination. The recall affects popular frozen snacks and quick-prep meals, as the company urges customers who purchased the items between Sep tember and October 2024 to discard them or return them for a refund.
The latest recall is linked to an ongo ing contamination issue traced back to an Oklahoma facility that produces readyto-eat chicken and meat products for BrucePac, a major supplier. The company has initiated a recall of approximately 12 million pounds of meat, affecting a wide range of stores, restaurants, and schools across the country.
Among the products removed from Costco are the Readywise 110-Serving Emergency Protein Bucket, Red’s South western Grill Chicken Mini Burritos, El Monterey Mexican Grill Chicken & Cheese Taquitos, Rana Chicken Truffle Carbonara, and Tagliatelle Grilled White Chicken & Portabello Mushroom Sauce. This action is part of a larger recall that encompasses over 200 products, totaling nearly 11.8 million pounds of food containing chicken.
those with weakened immune systems. While no illnesses linked to the contamination have been reported so far, health officials emphasize the importance of taking precautionary measures.
The listeria issue was uncovered during routine testing by the U.S. Department of
Listeria contamination can lead to symptoms such as fever, muscle aches,
ture delivery.
Costco's recall reflects a broader issue affecting food safety across the nation. The implicated Oklahoma facility, which produces a variety of ready-to-eat meats for BrucePac, has seen increased scrutiny following the discovery of the contamina-
tion. BrucePac's recall extends far beyond Costco's shelves, with products distributed to various retail outlets, food service providers, and educational institutions.
The FSIS is closely monitoring the situation and has advised consumers to thoroughly cook any poultry products to an internal temperature of 165°F, which can reduce the risk of listeria exposure. Additionally, people should avoid consuming recalled products and follow guidelines for returning or discarding the items.
For customers concerned about potentially affected products, Costco has set up a process for issuing refunds or exchanges. The company encourages anyone who purchased these items during the affected period to take advantage of these options and prioritize health and safety.
As food recalls continue to unfold, experts urge vigilance in monitoring announcements from health authorities and retailers. Consumers should stay informed about potential risks and follow recommended food safety practices to protect themselves and their families.
This latest development at Costco highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring food safety and the importance of quick action in response to contamination concerns. While recalls can be inconvenient, they play a critical role in preventing outbreaks and maintaining public health.
TAKE A BREAK
