Surge in Foodborne Illnesses Raises Questions of Safety and Oversight
By: Ellen Ward
Over the past 90 days, the U.S. has seen a concerning increase in foodborne illness outbreaks, with numerous cases of E.coli and Listeria contamination making headlines. From contaminated produce to recalled frozen meals, the trend has sparked questions about whether this is a coincidence, a sign of systemic failures in food safety practices, or something more alarming.
Recent months have been marked by high-profile recalls across various food categories. Vegetables, packaged salads, meats, and even ice cream have been implicated in outbreaks that have sickened dozens and led to hospitalizations.
E.coli outbreaks were linked to pre-washed salad mixes and ground beef products, with symptoms ranging from mild diarrhea to severe kidney failure.
Listeria contamination prompted recalls of frozen fruits and soft cheeses, posing serious risks to pregnant individuals, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these outbreaks are part of a broader trend, with foodborne illnesses causing an estimated 48 million cases annually in the U.S.
Root Causes: Coincidence, Incompetence, or Something Else?
Experts are divided on the reasons behind the apparent uptick. Some suggest it could be coincidental, as contamination events can cluster by chance. Others point to ongoing challenges in the food industry:
Improper Handling and Procedures: Lapses in hygiene during food processing, insufficient training, or inadequate temperature con-
trol often lead to contamination.
Supply Chain Complexities: The globalization of food supply chains has increased the risk of cross-contamination and made it harder to trace sources of outbreaks.
Regulatory Gaps: Despite rigorous standards, critics argue that oversight by the FDA and USDA is stretched thin, leaving room for error.
The recent outbreaks have understandably heightened public anxiety. While there is no concrete evidence of malicious intent, the recurring nature of these incidents underscores the need for vigilance. Food safety advocates urge both companies and regulators to double down on efforts to ensure proper sanitation and transparent reporting.
For consumers, staying informed is critical. Regularly checking for recall announcements
Vote Yes to Recall West
from the FDA or USDA can help prevent exposure to potentially harmful products. Simple steps like thoroughly washing produce, cooking meat to recommended temperatures, and avoiding cross-contamination in the kitchen can also reduce risks.
While the causes of these outbreaks are multifaceted, the public’s concern is valid. Enhanced oversight, improved industry practices, and consumer awareness are all necessary to address the issue comprehensively.
The question remains: are these outbreaks indicative of deeper systemic flaws or an unfortunate confluence of events? Whatever the case, the responsibility to safeguard public health rests with everyone—from policymakers and food producers to consumers staying informed. As updates unfold, keeping tabs on recalls and food safety news remains essential for everyone.
By: Jay Meredith, CPA
When caught in a crime, police officers hold people accountable. When caught losing millions of dollars, ignoring voters’ decisions, and breaking the law, the constitutional power of a recall petition is how citizens hold elected officials accountable.
If you’re not a close political ally of Josephine County Commissioner John West, over the last year you can’t do business with Josephine County. Government is supposed to serve everyone and now it is time for the citizens to have their say.
You won’t hear the truth if you listen to Commissioner John West’s public statements and false advertising in recent months. The truth is this recall petition was started by several Republicans wanting to hold one of our own accountable. This initiative quickly grew among all local voter affiliations.
As someone who has been closely watching our local government activity for 18 years, I can also say this recall petition has been one of the most popular local measures I’ve seen, and we gathered close to 7,500 petition signatures in just 90 days. Signatures have now been verified and special recall election ballots will be mailed out to Josephine County voters in just a few days.
The number of false statements made by Commissioner West since the filing of this recall petition in early
August has been off the charts. I am one of several authors of the recall petition, and I can say we spent almost two months carefully crafting the wording of the recall petition to make sure each point in the petition was factual and accurate.
Therefore, I can also say that West has made countless false statements on radio interviews, video interviews, and in paid advertising in local newspapers since the filing of our recall petition. But when it came to filing his Statement of Justification filing form for this recall election, West did not dispute any points in the recall petition. My guess is that West saw the warning on the top of this elections form that says, “Supplying false information on this form may result in conviction of a felony with a fine of up to $125,000 and/or prison for up to 5 years.” If you want to see how West worded his Statement of Justification before your ballot arrives in the mail, see the last two pages of this document posted on the County website: https://www.josephinecounty. gov/R-2024-1%20Recall.pdf
John West bullies political opponents, threatens independent journalists with lawsuits when they don’t write favorably, and makes false statements about any local measure or candidate that doesn’t favor his personal agenda. In the most recent general election, West funded smear campaigns full of false statements about other
local Republicans running for local office.
Meanwhile, Commissioner West lost over $6 million due to poor decisions in his first 20 months in office. West has also voted to decrease funding to law enforcement and safety programs, and repeatedly failed to follow the law.
West brags about cost cutting initiatives such as combining the Emergency Management and IT departments. Except, in the first annual budget season after West voted to combine these two departments, these two departments showed a total combined budget increase of $835,400 or an increase of 35.3% in fiscal 2025 versus the fiscal 2024 budget. It’s fair to say that a 35% budget increase was not a successful cost-cutting initiative. We can’t let West’s illegal, unethical, and costly decisions continue for 2 more years. Please join me in voting yes to recall West.
NEWS DESK
Josephine County Commissioners Approve Loan for Urgent Repairs to Former 4H/Extension Building
By: John Oliver
The Josephine County Board of Commissioners has approved an emergency funding measure to address critical repairs to a building formerly occupied by the 4H/ Extension Service District. The decision, outlined in an order issued on October 30, 2024, seeks to ensure the building's safety and usability for future public purposes.
The building, previously leased by the 4H/Extension Service District, was vacated earlier this year. During inspections, county officials identified significant structural issues, including the need for a new roof and other emergency repairs. These repairs are deemed essential to maintain the building and prepare it for future community use.
Although the County has a Building Reserve Fund designated for maintenance and repairs, budgetary rules prevent those funds from being accessed directly for this purpose. This posed a challenge, as the repairs are both urgent and costly, requiring immediate attention.
To address the issue, the Board of Commissioners approved a plan to loan up to $370,000 from the County’s General Fund to finance the repairs. The loan will cover all necessary expenses to ensure the building’s structural integrity and safety.
The 4H/Extension Service District is expected to repay the full loan amount in the fiscal year 2025-2026. The repayment will come from funds the district appropriates during its next budget cycle. This plan ensures that the costs are ultimately borne by the district, not the County’s General Fund.
The funding approach appears to align with Oregon state laws and local government finance regulations. Specifically, loan from General Fund, governments are
generally allowed to transfer funds between accounts if there is proper documentation and a clear repayment plan. This measure outlines the repayment timeline and stipulates fiscal accountability.
Acknowledging that the Building Reserve Fund cannot be accessed for repairs demonstrates adherence to budgetary restrictions. Utilizing a General Fund loan is a permissible workaround under these circumstances.
By requiring the 4H/Extension Service District to budget for and repay the loan, the County ensures that financial responsibility remains with the district while maintaining transparency in its decision-making.
This decision reflects the County’s commitment to maintaining public assets and addressing urgent infrastructure needs despite financial hurdles. It also highlights the importance of fiscal planning and legal compliance in local governance.
Work on the building is expected to begin promptly to prevent further damage and ensure public safety. The 4H/Extension Service District will include the loan repayment in its upcoming budget for fiscal year 2025-2026.
For residents concerned about public funds or the process, the County encourages inquiries and provides access to public records to ensure transparency in the decision.
VOTE to Recall John West
Committee to Recall John West Announces Successful Certification of Petition Effort
Grants Pass, OR – November 16, 2024 – The Committeeto Recall John West is pleased to announce the successful certification of ourpetition effort. This significant milestone marks a crucial step forward in ourmission to ensure accountability and transparency in our local government.
The certification, confirmed by the Josephine County Clerk,validates the overwhelming support from our community members who have voicedtheir concern over Commissioner West's behavior, which has been described ascruel and corrupt. The petition garnered more than the required number ofsignatures, reflecting the collective will of the citizens of Josephine County.
"We are incredibly grateful to everyone who supportedthis effort," said Lily Morgan, Chief Petitioner for the Committee toRecall John West. "This certification is a testament to the power ofcommunity action and the importance of holding our elected officialsaccountable."
"When caught in a crime, police officers hold peopleaccountable. When caught losing millionsof dollars, ignoring voters’ decisions, and breaking the law, theconstitutional power of a recall petition
is how citizens hold elected officialsaccountable. If you’re not a closepolitical ally of Commissioner West, over the last year you can’t do businesswith Josephine County. Government issupposed to serve everyone and it’s now time for the citizens to have their say"said Jay Meredith, Director of the Committee to Recall John West.
Commissioner John West now has five days to step down orprovide justification for his actions. Should he choose not to step down, arecall election is scheduled for December 17, 2024. This election will givevoters the opportunity to decide on whether Commissioner John West should serveas County Commissioner for the remaining 2 years left in his current term.
The Committee to Recall John West remains committed toproviding transparent information and engaging with the community throughoutthis process.
For more information, please contact: recalljohnwest@gmail.com
Lily Morgan (Chief Petitioner), Jay Meredith (Committee Director) and the entire Committee to Recall John West https://www.recalljohnwest.com/ https://www.facebook.com/recalljohnwest/
NEWS DESK
The $42 Billion Broadband Gap
Examining the Connections Between Grants, Investments, and Missing Results in Josephine County
By: John Oliver
The promise of widespread internet access for rural and underserved areas has been a cornerstone of federal initiatives in recent years, most notably through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. Funded by the $42.5 billion provision in the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the program aimed to close the digital divide by bringing high-speed internet to communities that have historically lacked it. Yet, nearly three years later, questions loom about its effectiveness, transparency, and alignment with local initiatives, such as those in Josephine County, Oregon.
The BEAD program required states and territories to submit deployment plans by the end of 2023, with implementation timelines stretching to 2026. Despite these plans, the initiative has yet to connect a single household to the internet. This delay has fueled skepticism about whether the program is addressing urgent connectivity issues or if bureaucracy and misaligned priorities are hindering progress.
Between 2021 and 2023, U.S. household internet access increased modestly from 80% to 83%, largely through private sector investments and emerging technologies. These gains occurred independently of BEAD funding, suggesting that market-driven solutions may already be addressing the digital divide in more agile ways than the federally subsidized program.
In Josephine County, Oregon, concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of broadband grants at the local level. Former Commissioner Simon Hare was reportedly paid an estimated $3,200 with an additional $20,000 contract for work in connection with an IT broadband grant that, like the
BEAD program, appears to have yielded little tangible progress. While it remains unclear whether this grant was tied to the broader federal funding initiative, the lack of visible results underscores recurring challenges in broadband deployment efforts. Additionally, the use of federal funding raises questions about potential violations of the Hatch Act, particularly regarding the appropriation of funds by the county official responsible for approving this project.
Critics argue that such grants often fail because they prioritize rigid infrastructure solutions, like fiber-optic cables, that may not align with the needs or preferences of rural communities. Additionally, these programs frequently overlook emerging technologies, such as satellite internet services like Starlink, which offer scalable and cost-effective alternatives for remote areas.
Private providers have been expanding internet access based on market demand, often using diverse and adaptable technologies to meet local needs. In contrast, government programs like BEAD focus heavily on fixed infrastructure, which can be expensive, slow to deploy, and less suited for certain areas. The rigid nature of these initiatives can lead to wasted resources, as states and territories prioritize compliance over practicality.
While long-term investments in infrastructure can yield significant benefits, they must be carefully planned and executed to avoid inefficiency. Critics warn that the opportunity costs of federal broadband programs may outweigh their benefits, as private providers continue to outpace government efforts in expanding coverage and reducing costs.
As the BEAD program moves toward implementation, the federal government faces mounting pressure to deliver results that justify its $42.5 billion investment. For communities like Josephine County, the question remains: Will these programs fulfill their promise, or will they become another example of well-intentioned initiatives falling short?
COMMUNITY
Preparing for Thanksgiving This Week
By: Ellen Ward
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and Southern Oregon residents are gearing up for a celebration that combines family, friends, and plenty of delicious food. This year, the holiday week is forecasted to be a wet one, with heavy rains and gusty winds, making it the perfect opportunity to embrace indoor festivities. Here’s how to prepare for a cozy, enjoyable Thanksgiving while staying dry and stress-free.
The National Weather Service predicts a week of consistent rain and potentially strong winds, especially in areas like Grants Pass, Medford, and Ashland. With this in mind, consider limiting outdoor plans and ensuring your home is ready to weather the storm. Check for any leaks or drafts, stock up on essentials like firewood, and have flashlights and batteries handy in case of power outages. For travelers, keep an eye on road conditions and avoid unnecessary trips during the heaviest rainfall.
This Thanksgiving, turn your home into a hub of warmth and connection. Classic activities such as board games, puzzles, and movie marathons can bring everyone together. For families with young children, crafting projects like creating homemade Thanksgiving decorations or writing “thankful” notes can provide both entertainment and meaningful moments. If you’re musically inclined, a sing-along or sharing family stories around the table can help everyone forget the stresses of daily life.
With the election season behind us, this Thanksgiving is an opportunity to return to “normal” and reconnect with loved ones. The
holiday offers a break from divisive topics and the perfect chance to focus on gratitude, laughter, and delicious food. Remember, holidays are about coming together, so consider setting aside political conversations in favor of lighter, happier discussions.
Thanksgiving isn’t complete without traditional dishes like turkey, mashed potatoes, and, of course, stuffing! If you’re hosting, make a checklist of your meal components and shop early to avoid crowded stores. Local farmers' markets and grocery stores in Southern Oregon are stocked with fresh, seasonal ingredients for your Thanksgiving feast. This year’s wet weather might even encourage you to try hearty soups or warm desserts, adding an extra layer of comfort to your meal.
For those not cooking, many local restaurants are offering takeout or dine-in Thanksgiving meals. Be sure to make reservations or place orders early to secure your spot.
Thanksgiving is also a time to help those in need. Consider volunteering or donating to local food banks or shelters - like the Gospel Resue Mission. Organizations across Southern Oregon, like ACCESS and the Josephine County Food Bank, are seeking contributions to support families facing food insecurity during the holiday season.
This Thanksgiving, Southern Oregon residents can embrace the warmth of home and the spirit of togetherness while keeping dry and safe. Whether you’re cooking up a storm or spending quality time with loved ones, let gratitude and joy be the centerpiece of your celebration. From all of us, happy Thanksgiving!
Grants Pass Prepares for 2024 Christmas Parade with Festive Spirit and Traffic Adjustments
GPT NEWS DESK
Grants Pass is set to dazzle with holiday cheer during the 2024 Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 7. The parade will take place from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., bringing vibrant floats, marching bands, and holiday excitement to the downtown area. To ensure the event runs smoothly, several street closures and detours will be in effect.
The parade route will span 6th Street from A Street to M Street, with additional closures impacting nearby side streets. Specifically, 5th Street will be closed between A and F Streets, as well as between G and H Streets to accommodate the City’s lighted Christmas tree. Side streets between 4th and 7th Streets will also see closures at B, C, D, F, and G Streets. Additionally, streets between 5th and 7th Streets at E Street and from H to M Streets will be closed to through traffic.
Motorists are advised to plan ahead and use alternate routes to navigate the area during the event. Emergency vehicles will have access as needed, ensuring public safety remains a top priority.
This annual event is a beloved tradition, drawing families and visitors from across the region to celebrate the holiday season in the heart of Grants Pass. Residents and attendees are encouraged to arrive early to find parking and secure a good viewing spot along the parade route.
For more information about the parade, including detour details, contact Julie Hall at (541) 450-6000. Whether you’re attending to cheer on the floats or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, the Grants Pass Christmas Parade promises to be a joyful kickoff to the holiday season.
GRANTS PASS WEATHER
5 DAY OUTLOOK
SOURCE: WEATHER.COM
SUNDAY MONDAY
Cloudy, chance of snow flurries 51/41
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
Cloudy, some rain 49/34 Partly cloudy 49/28
THURSDAY Rain 47/38
Partly cloudy 49/31
TAKE A BREAK
Posting Date November 18, 2024
November 18, 2024
COMMUNITY
Deck the Halls: To Decorate Before or After Thanksgiving?
By: Eddy
Ah, the great holiday decorating debate! It’s the question that divides neighborhoods, families, and maybe even marriages: When is the right time to pull out the twinkle lights, wreaths, and inflatable reindeer? Should we honor Thanksgiving’s status as the star of November or give ourselves an early dose of holiday cheer? Let’s unwrap this dilemma with equal parts tradition, whimsy, and practicality.
For many, the urge to start decorating before Thanksgiving is irresistible. As soon as the Halloween pumpkins turn mushy, it’s “Hello, holly!” Why wait to string lights when you can bask in their glow on those long November evenings? For early decorators, Thanksgiving becomes part of the broader holiday season—a cozy kick-off to Christmas, Hanukkah, or whatever winter festivity you hold dear.
There’s also science backing up early decorating. Studies suggest that holiday decorations can boost hap-
piness, sparking nostalgia and filling your home with the kind of warmth that pumpkin pie alone can’t provide. Plus, with the holiday season feeling shorter every year, why not extend the joy? An early start lets you savor every bauble and bow without rushing to pack it all away come January.
But hold your garlands—Thanksgiving deserves its moment in the spotlight! For purists, early decorating is akin to interrupting a heartfelt toast. They argue that jumping the gun on holiday cheer detracts from the slower, more reflective vibe of Thanksgiving—a day to focus on gratitude, family, and pecan pie (obviously superior to pumpkin, but we digress).
By waiting until after Thanksgiving, you’re giving each holiday its due respect. It’s also practical: fewer weeks of decorations mean less time worrying about rogue pine needles, burned-out bulbs, or neighbors tired of your 24/7 light display. Waiting also lets you ease into the holiday spirit instead of diving headfirst into a tinsel
tidal wave.
If you’re still torn, why not blend the best of both worlds? Start with subtle, neutral decor that complements Thanksgiving but hints at what’s to come. Think strings of white lights, cinnamon-scented candles, or a wreath that leans more “rustic harvest” than “Santa’s workshop.” After the turkey’s been carved, go full North Pole—swap pumpkins for ornaments, and let Rudolph reign supreme.
Another option is to decorate different areas at different times. Keep the main living spaces Thanksgiving-friendly while sneaking some holiday cheer into a bedroom or outdoor area. This way, you can quietly enjoy your winter wonderland without overshadowing the Pilgrims.
Here’s the truth: there’s no wrong time to decorate. Whether your holiday spirit shows up with November’s first chill or you hold off until Black Friday, what matters most is how decorating makes you feel. If you love decking the halls before the cranberry sauce cools, go for it.
Mt. Ashland Ski Resort Prepares for an Exciting Winter Season Kick-Off
The Mt. Ashland Ski Resort is gearing up for the 2024-2025 winter season with a celebratory kick-off event scheduled for Saturday, December 7, 2024. The festivities will take place from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the resort’s iconic Karen and Sid DeBoer Lodge.
This family-friendly event promises to offer a lively afternoon filled with entertainment and the excitement of the upcoming ski season. Guests can enjoy live music, delicious food, and other festivities, all set against the stunning snowy backdrop of Mt. Ashland. Admission is free, and no reservations are required, making it an accessible event for everyone in the community.
The Winter Kick-Off event is generously sponsored by Ashland Ace Hardware, a local business known for supporting community activities. The resort encourages people of all ages to join the celebration and help
welcome what is expected to be another fantastic season on the slopes.
As the resort finalizes preparations for the winter, excitement is building among snow enthusiasts eager to hit the trails. Mt. Ashland, a beloved local ski destination, offers something for everyone—from beginners learning the basics to seasoned skiers tackling the mountain’s challenging terrain.
Whether you’re a skier, snowboarder, or just someone who loves the winter vibe, this event is a great way to immerse yourself in the season’s spirit. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the start of winter at one of Southern Oregon’s favorite mountain getaways.
For more information about the event or the resort’s upcoming season, visit the Mt. Ashland Ski Resort website. Bundle up, bring your friends and family, and get ready to welcome the snow!
