SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8,
Chronicles of False Statements By Josephine County Commissioner John West, Part One
By: Jay Meredith, CPA
As one of the original authors of the Recall Petition for Josephine County Commissioner John West, filed on August 2, 2024, as I reported last week I can honestly say I’ve been shocked about all the false statements made about the petition by Commissioner West and the Central Committee of the Josephine County Republican Party. And before reading on, let me say that I’m a lifelong conservative and also a registered Republican. And despite what West and other West allies have said lately, all the original “founding” members of what is now called the Committee to Recall John West were Republicans when the idea was in its formation stage. We just wanted to hold one of our own accountable.
So that’s the first of dozens of false statements made in response to this recall petition. West and his camp are saying this is a liberal effort, democrat effort, etc. This is of course not true. Then since the filing of the recall petition West has gone out of his way to attack the individuals involved in this recall effort, rather than debating the facts of the recall petition points. They say when you resort to personal attacks you’ve lost the debate. West lost this debate months ago, and his personal attacks have only intensified in recent weeks.
A few weeks after the petition signature gathering effort was launched, and after West put out his first written rebuttal of the petition points which was also riddled with false statements, West did an interview about the recall on the Bill Meyer radio show. And on this radio show all of a sudden he revealed that he had a private meeting with County Commissioner candidate Pat Fahey around March 2024 at the County Courthouse before the May 2024 vote on the Charter Change measure. He claimed on the radio that the subject of the meeting was that Pat Fahey was trying to get West’s support for the charter change measure and that he wanted to do a deal with West because he wanted Lily Morgan (chief petitioner of recall petition) to be the County Manager after the charter change was approved by voters.
These are nothing but false statements from West, and here’s why. West has admitted on video he personally spent more than $10,000 campaigning against the charter change measure earlier in 2024. West also broke state campaign finance laws by not reporting any of that spending, but the point here is West was one of the most vocal opponents of the charter change measure. And anyone paying attention to local happenings and the full-page ads that West has put in various local publications knows that Pat Fa-
hey is like an arch enemy of West when it comes to the local political arena. Had that discussion actually happened as West said it did, West would have been SHOUTING from the rooftops about this meeting right after it happened. Because West wanted nothing more than the charter change measure to be voted down and Pat Fahey to be unsuccessful in his run for County Commissioner.
In fact, when Pat Fahey heard this recording of the West radio segment in August 2024, he informally challenged West to a polygraph test about what they discussed in that meeting. West of course backed off, just like he did when he recently turned down a live debate with the Recall Committee spokespeople. But West made that series of false statements in several other media interviews, presumably so that he could try and make the recall effort look bad.
West’s personal attacks on recall chief petitioner Lily Morgan have been relentless, and the lie about Pat Fahey wanting Morgan to be the County Manager was quite the whopper. The truth is, Lily Morgan just started a new job with the City of Gold Hill and informally committed 5 years to Gold Hill just as all City Managers are supposed to when they start a new City Manager job.
West repeated some of these lies in a big full-page ad in the Sneak Preview for the October 2024 edition. And West attacked me personally in the ad as well. The false statement on Lily Morgan in this full-page ad: “[Lily] Morgan needs John West out of the way so she can be appointed County Manager costing you over $300,000 per year.” Every part of this statement is false. The ad also stated “Meredith needs John West out of the way to push his takeover of Josephine County timberlands for a company called American Mineral Research. So they can leverage the taxpayers land and get investor’s money.” This statement is false as well as absurd.
The company American Mineral Research applied under the terms of County Code for a mining lease on just one piece of county property that has 76 acres (which makes up about 0.3% of the acreage all County owned timber properties). The company applied for the lease because we wanted to show the County how it could earn more revenues from its timberland to help support County Law Enforcement and Justice programs (without costing taxpayers anything), and we projected this single property could
Holiday Lights Spark Joy Across Grants Pass
By: “Ted”
This holiday season, the streets of Grants Pass are once again aglow with festive cheer, offering families and visitors the perfect opportunity to immerse themselves in the magic of the season. Whether you call them Christmas lights or holiday lights, one thing is certain: the displays around town are a delightful sight to behold.
For those looking for an enchanting drive, Redwood Avenue has become a standout destination. This year, the homes along the avenue are adorned with dazzling lights and creative decorations, making it a must-see for anyone seeking holiday inspiration. From classic twinkling lights to intricate themes, Redwood offers a little something for everyone.
Starlight Drive continues its tradition
of impressive displays, with homes lighting up the night in a warm embrace of holiday spirit. Meanwhile, Washington Street is gaining attention for its overthe-top creativity, with residents pulling out all the stops to create a visual feast for passersby. The neighborhood seems to compete in friendly holiday rivalry, ensuring there’s always something new to marvel at.
For those who prefer a leisurely stroll, downtown Grants Pass is a magical wonderland. The iconic tree on G Street sparkles brilliantly, standing as a centerpiece for the holiday season. Storefronts are adorned with festive window displays, each one uniquely crafted to capture the essence of the holidays. The combination of charming lights, decorated shops, and the soft hum of holiday music creates an atmosphere that
is both nostalgic and joyful. Bundle up, gather your loved ones, and explore the wonder of Grants Pass this holiday season. Whether you’re driving through decorated neighborhoods or taking in the lights downtown, the city offers countless opportunities to celebrate the season and make lasting memories. Happy holidays, Grants Pass!
DESK
The Evolution of Nostalgic Christmas Gifts
competitions and even spurring the development of computer algorithms to solve the puzzle more quickly.
By: Leaf Barret
The holiday season has always been a time of anticipation, excitement, and a little bit of magic. As generations have passed, one thing remains constant: the joy of receiving a special gift. While the list of "must-have" toys changes over time, there’s an undeniable nostalgia that lingers around the iconic holiday presents of yesteryear. From the bright colors of the 1970s to the sleek, tech-savvy devices of today, the evolution of Christmas gifts reflects a world constantly in motion.
The 1970s: A Decade of Innovation and Whimsy The 1970s were a transformative time in the world of toys, with many now-classic items gracing the wish lists of children everywhere. Among the most iconic was the Simon, a memory game released in 1978. With its colorful lights and beeping sounds, Simon challenged players to follow a sequence of lights, and its easy-to-learn yet difficult-to-master gameplay made it an instant hit. Today, Simon is still fondly remembered, a relic of a time when toys were often simpler but no less engaging.
Another classic from the 1970s was GI Joe. Originally introduced in 1964 as a 12-inch action figure, the GI Joe brand evolved in the '70s to a 3.75-inch figure that made it easier for kids to engage in elaborate adventures. The military-themed dolls, complete with accessories and vehicles, became a staple of the era. This new wave of GI Joe figures appealed to a broader range of children, cementing its place in the toy hall of fame.
No holiday season would have been complete in the '70s without the Pet Rock. A gift so simple it defied logic, the Pet Rock was exactly what it sounded like: a rock, packaged in a box with breathing holes and straw bedding. It was one of the most outrageous fads of the decade, but its appeal lay in its absurdity and the fact that it was marketed as the perfect "low-maintenance" pet. Despite its brief moment in the sun, the Pet Rock remains a part of the collective cultural consciousness, a reminder of the era's quirky sense of humor.
And who could forget the Cabbage Patch Dolls of the early '80s? These soft, doll-like figures, each with a unique face and personality, ignited a frenzy that led to fights in stores and a shortage of inventory. For children of the era, receiving a Cabbage Patch Doll was akin to scoring the ultimate prize—much like securing a PlayStation 5 during the height of the pandemic. These dolls captured the hearts of parents and children alike, making them a perfect example of the power of a toy to dominate holiday shopping.
The 1980s: The Digital Era Begins
As the digital age began to take shape, the 1980s ushered in a wave of electronic toys that captivated the imaginations of children. The Rubik's Cube, which became a global sensation in 1980, was an instantly recognizable symbol of the decade. This colorful puzzle, which challenged players to align the squares on each face, became one of the most popular brain-teasers of all time. The Rubik's Cube wasn't just a toy; it was a cultural phenomenon, inspiring
The Atari 2600, which debuted in 1977, was another iconic gift that dominated the 1980s. By the time the holiday season rolled around, Atari's influence on the gaming industry was undeniable. This early video game console introduced children to the world of digital entertainment, with classic games like Pong, Space Invaders, and Asteroids offering hours of entertainment. For many, receiving an Atari console for Christmas was a gateway to a new era of interactive play.
The 1990s: The Age of Stuffed Animals and Interactive Toys
The 1990s continued the trend of high-tech toys, but this was also the decade where children began to fall in love with interactive plush toys. One such toy was Teddy Ruxpin, a cuddly bear that could "read" stories with the help of an audio cassette player built into its back. Children would insert a cassette into the bear's back, and Teddy would move his mouth and eyes as he read the story aloud. Teddy Ruxpin was a revolutionary concept, blending technology with traditional play to create an experience that felt magical.
Also big during the '90s was Furby, a robotic creature that gained a cult following after its release in 1998. Furbies could "learn" words and interact with their owners, and their popularity soared during the holiday season. Despite the occasional controversy surrounding its ability to "listen" to its owners, the Furby was an undeniable hit, showing just how far toy technology had come in a short period of time.
The 2000s to Today: The Rise of Tech-Savvy Gifts
Fast forward to the present, and the most sought-after gifts have become increasingly sophisticated. Today’s kids are no longer asking for toys like GI Joe or My Little Pony (which also saw a resurgence in the 1980s and 2010s). Now, they want the latest tech gadgets, often with price tags that are more suited to the purchase of a small car than a stocking stuffer.
Take, for instance, the iPhone, which has become a modern-day must-have. The device has evolved from a simple phone to an essential part of daily life, offering everything from social media access to photography, gaming, and much more. Children as young as 4 years old are now asking for an iPhone for Christmas, a far cry from the simpler gifts of years past.
And while the Tesla has become the new dream car for many teens, it’s a reflection of how times have changed. No longer content with a bicycle or a modest first car, today’s young people are expecting the same high-tech luxury that’s become the standard for their generation. While an actual Tesla might be out of reach for most teenagers, the desire for such a gift speaks to a larger shift in the kinds of expectations that come with modern holiday wish lists.
The Gimmick Gift: A Timeless Tradition
Despite the soaring prices and ever-changing technology, there’s one thing that remains constant: the "gimmick" gift. Each year, there’s always that one toy, often outlandish or absurd, that every child must have to stay "cool." Whether it’s the Pet Rock of the '70s, the Tamagotchi of the '90s,
or the latest tech fad, these gifts create a sense of cultural unity, where everyone wants to be part of the trend—even if the novelty quickly fades.
The Lesson of Holiday Gifts
As we reflect on the evolution of Christmas gifts over the years, one thing becomes abundantly clear: While the technology, prices, and expectations change, the spirit of giving remains unchanged. There will always be that special gift that captures the imagination and becomes a memory for years to come. Whether it’s a Simon, a Furby, or the latest iPhone, gifts have always been a way to create lasting memories, even if those gifts cost a little more than they used to.
And so, as we head into the holiday season, let’s remember the joy and wonder that come with receiving a gift—whether it’s a high-tech gadget or a humble Pet Rock. Because, in the end, it’s not the price or the trendiness of the gift that matters most, but the happiness it brings.
NEWS DESK
Sean "Diddy" Combs Faces Escalating Legal Challenges Amid New Allegations
By: Jason Foley
Sean "Diddy" Combs, the renowned rapper and music mogul, is once again at the center of controversy as Anna Kane publicly revealed herself in an amended lawsuit filed on Friday. This legal move reiterates allegations originally brought forth in a December 2023 complaint, which had been filed under the pseudonym Jane Doe. Kane accuses Combs and his associate, Harve Pierre, of exploiting her when she was a minor, adding another layer to the growing list of legal troubles facing the music icon.
The lawsuit describes an incident from 2003, when Kane was 17 years old. According to her claims, Pierre approached her at a Michigan lounge, boasting of his close ties to Combs. To substantiate his claim, Pierre allegedly called Combs, convincing Kane of their relationship. Kane asserts that the two persuaded her to board a private jet to Daddy’s House Recording Studio in New York City, a facility owned by Combs. The details of what transpired thereafter form the core of the lawsuit, painting a troubling picture of alleged ma-
nipulation and exploitation.
Combs, 55, has been held in the Special Housing Unit at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center since his arraignment on September 17 on federal charges of sex trafficking, racketeering, and transporting individuals for prostitution. Prosecutors allege that Combs used his wealth and status in the entertainment industry to orchestrate a pattern of abuse spanning decades. While Combs has pleaded not guilty to the criminal charges and maintains that all encounters were consensual, these accusations have been accompanied by a wave of civil lawsuits.
Kane's decision to amend her lawsuit and name herself as the victim comes on the heels of another high-profile case involving Combs. Just weeks earlier, singer Cassie, Combs’ ex-girlfriend, filed a lawsuit accusing him of rape, sex trafficking, and physical abuse. That case was swiftly settled within 24 hours, with Combs’ legal team hinting at a significant eight-figure settlement. While the settlement brought that particular case to a close, it has not eased public scrutiny
or diminished the momentum of other legal actions against him.
Kane’s lawsuit adds to the growing list of accusations against Combs, which span from the 1990s to 2022. Investigators describe his alleged actions as part of a "recurrent and widely known" pattern of abuse. These allegations have not only placed Combs under intense legal pressure but have also sparked broader conversations about power dynamics, accountability, and exploitation within the entertainment industry.
Despite Combs’ denials, the allegations have cast a shadow over his legacy. As the legal battles unfold, they are likely to have far-reaching implications for all parties involved, drawing significant attention from both the public and the media. For Kane, revealing her identity marks a bold step in her pursuit of justice, potentially paving the way for others to come forward.
As the case continues, the proceedings will undoubtedly serve as a critical test of the legal system’s ability to address allegations of abuse by powerful figures in the entertainment world.
False Statements By Josephine County Commissioner John West
From page 1
net Josephine County about $260,000 per year once commercial production started from the property.
Had American Mineral Research obtained a lease on that 76-acre property, it’s safe to say that taking over 0.3% of County properties would not meet the definition of a “takeover of Josephine County timberlands.” At this point perhaps it’s worthy to state that making false statements in advertising for a ballot measure or candidate is also against state elections law. I highly recommend that Commissioner West and anyone else interested read “ORS 260.532 False publication relating to candidate or measure; civil action; damages; other remedies; limitation on action.”
West was on a radio show yet again in the last week attempting to refute some of the recall petition claims. On the decision related to the American Mineral Research mining lease application just discussed here, West claimed “Commissioners made a 3-0 vote against the lease.”
Despite County Code law requiring the County to enter into a lease on a mining lease application when the applicant meets certain requirements, when American Mineral Research applied for this lease in May 2023 (5 months after West was in his Commissioner office), Josephine County has never once had a vote on this lease application. That’s right, 19 months after applying for this lease per the terms of county law, Commissioners haven’t even scheduled a decision on the lease application on the Board’s agenda. Just ask West or the County Commissioners to show proof of their decision in the official agendas and minutes of County Board meetings. They won’t be able to back up this West false statement. We’ve sent countless emails to Commissioners
and County Legal on this topic and they’ve all been ignored.
Adding insult to monetary injury, in reaction to this recall petition, in October 2024 West spearheaded an effort to just put this specific mineral-rich property up for sale to damage American Mineral Research. West ignored yet another email warning from American Mineral Research and just voted to sell the property without even considering the legal ramifications of this action. West is opening both himself and the County up to significant legal risks by these kinds of actions. Not only has Commissioner West broken the law in these series of actions, but West has recently lied in relation to the recall ballot measure and the County taxpayers will be missing revenues that could support our local law enforcement and justice programs. West acted out in a similar way in recent months in what appears to be vindictiveness and anger against the Williams area-based group that had been trying to purchase the County’s Pipe Fork timber property. This is another one of recall petition points. After Commissioners West and Baertschiger acted in bad faith in the final stages of the Pipe Fork property transaction and refused to sell the property to that group at a price that was about $300,000 above the official appraised price of the property, County Commissioners recently put that property up for sale in a public auction which closed in November 2024. However, to add insult to injury for the potential Williams area purchasers, West and Baertsch-
iger required this property to be bundled with another nearby County-owned timber property to make it harder for the Williams group to purchase it. Further twisting the knife into the people of Williams, the County offered those two similar bundled properties at a minimum bid price of about 10% LESS per acre than what the Williams group offered. The property didn’t even sell at auction, further strengthening the recall petition point and the community’s concerns. This has ended up as a lose/lose/lose scenario, and now County taxpayers are out $2.3 million of forestry revenues they could have had last summer.
Speaking of “ORS 260.532 False publication relating to candidate or measure,” West also just paid for a big direct mailer to many voters in Josephine County that repeat a bunch of other lies that West has made since the filing of the recall petition. Maybe I’ll dive into the nitty gritty of the mailer details in a future article, but for now I’ll say that every statement except one in this mailer is categorically false. In my opinion, it’s another example of personal attacks rather than debating the facts of the recall petition.
For this part one of the Chronicles of False Statements by Josephine County Commissioner John West let’s end with how West’s votes and actions negatively affected the safety of the community by removing County funding from County Law Enforcement programs and ignored the will of the people in the process. While a
nuanced budget discussion, the bottom line is that West along with one other County Commissioner voted and acted to take General Fund money away from the Sheriff’s office during last summer’s annual budget process. This was just six months after County voters said yes to a new Law Enforcement Service District for the county areas outside the City of Grants Pass and provides a new $5.3 million per year of revenues for the Sheriff’s office.
Simply stated, this new $5.3 million per year from the new voter-approved Law Enforcement Service District was supposed to fund at least 20 new staff members in the Sheriff’s office. Due to the budget parameters laid out by West and one other County commissioner, the recommended budget had zero new staff members in the Sheriff’s recommended budget. And after a contentious series of budget votes that ended in a 2-1 vote to adopt the budget, this year’s budget has only the equivalent of funding for 5 new full-time Sheriff staff members. This is not what County voters said yes to just six months before these decisions.
West, in a YouTube video interview on The Oregon Grape Podcast that was filmed just a few days ago blamed this on the County losing “grant” funding. Nothing could be much further from the truth. The truth is the County took away some of its existing General Fund revenue that used to support the Sheriff’s office, right after the County voters said we’re willing to pay a slightly higher tax rate for more Sheriff services. The chart below is a presentation slide directly from the Sheriff’s presentation to the Budget Committee in June 2024. This was extremely concerning to the Sheriff.
NEWS DESK
By: Leaf Barret
As the dust settles on the most recent election cycle, a familiar challenge has resurfaced for legacy media outlets: retaining their core audience. Historically, political campaigns and elections have served as high-stakes, high-viewership events for major media networks, drawing millions of Americans eager for the latest news and analysis. However, as political fervor wanes, these outlets are grappling with a significant decline in viewer engagement, leading some to question whether the media’s influence is tied more to orchestrated narratives than sustained value.
Television ratings for major networks often spike during election seasons, driven by intense coverage of debates, polls, and campaign drama. Yet, these same networks frequently experience a sharp decline in viewership once the votes are counted. With the election cycle concluded, many viewers have turned away, seemingly fatigued by the 24/7 news grind and increasingly skeptical of the personalities that populate the screens.
Many argue that during elections, legacy media networks and their hosts play a dual role: informing the public and shaping narratives that benefit established political and institutional powers. Once the elections are over, these critics claim, the hosts are left with fewer directives
Legacy Media Faces Viewer Retention Challenges Post-Election Cycle Connecticut Appellate Court Upholds $965 Million Verdict Against Alex Jones
Gpt news desk
The Connecticut Appellate Court on Friday upheld a $965 million verdict issued in 2022 against conspiracy theorist Alex Jones. The court determined there was “sufficient evidence” to support the substantial damages awarded to the families of the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre victims and an FBI agent, citing the trauma caused by Jones's repeated claims that the tragedy was a hoax.
In a unanimous opinion, the court highlighted the "traumatic threats and harassment" endured by the families, which were fueled by Jones's propagation of falsehoods about the 2012 massacre. “Our review of the record reveals that there was sufficient evidence to sup-
from their networks, leading to a loss of focus and content that fails to resonate with audiences who have grown weary of partisan divides and sensationalized stories.
The term "puppet to the system" has gained traction among media skeptics, who allege that legacy media personalities are beholden to larger forces within the socalled "deep state." According to this perspective, news anchors and commentators are not independent voices but instruments of a system that uses them to influence public opinion. Once their utility wanes—whether due to an off-cycle political climate or a shift in focus—they are relegated to the sidelines until the next election or national crisis.
Such claims are difficult to substantiate definitively but resonate with a growing segment of the population that feels disillusioned by the mainstream media. The repeated cycles of heightened media attention during elections or crises, followed by a return to more mundane and less impactful programming, leave many questioning the long-term authenticity and independence of these outlets.
Adding to the challenges faced by legacy media is the emergence of alternative platforms and independent journalists who have garnered substantial followings. These outlets often position themselves as antidotes to
what they see as the biased, agenda-driven reporting of traditional networks. With viewers increasingly seeking out diverse perspectives, legacy media networks must compete for attention in an environment where trust in traditional institutions is at an all-time low.
Even among loyal viewers, there is a growing awareness of what some call the "America’s Sweethearts" phenomenon: media personalities who rise to prominence during elections, presenting themselves as indispensable voices, only to fade into relative obscurity until another politically charged moment arises. Critics argue that these figures are recycled every few years to manufacture urgency or foster division, serving institutional needs rather than the public’s demand for objective journalism.
For legacy media to retain its relevance, a shift toward substance and transparency may be necessary. Rebuilding trust will require consistent, unbiased reporting that addresses the concerns of viewers beyond election cycles and crises. In an era where skepticism runs high, only those outlets that prove themselves trustworthy may find lasting success.
While the future of legacy media remains uncertain, one thing is clear: the American public is paying closer attention than ever, not only to the stories being told but to the motives of those telling them.
port the $965,000,000 in compensatory damages awarded by the jury,” the court stated in its 62-page decision, marking it as the largest jury verdict in Connecticut’s history.
The appellate court did, however, grant Jones a $150 million reprieve. It ruled that the plaintiffs failed to present a legally viable claim under the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act (CUTPA). The court vacated $150 million in punitive damages that were initially awarded, noting that the alleged harm stemmed from false statements rather than from issues related to advertising, marketing, or the sale of goods.
With this ruling, Jones's financial liability now totals approximately $1.2 bil-
lion. This includes the $965 million to the Connecticut families and nearly $50 million awarded by a Texas jury to the parents of another Sandy Hook victim. Jones repeatedly told his followers that the massacre, which claimed the lives of 20 first graders and six educators, was staged by “crisis actors” as part of a plot to implement stricter gun control measures.
The appellate court also upheld the trial court's decision to find Jones and his company, Free Speech Systems LLC, liable for damages by default. This was due to their failure to comply with court orders requiring the sharing of evidence.
The verdict and subsequent rulings underscore the legal consequences for propagating harmful misinformation. For
the Sandy Hook families, this decision represents a significant moment of accountability for the emotional toll inflicted by years of harassment and threats inspired by Jones's unfounded claims.
Relics Senior Softball League Seeks Community Support for 2025 Season
By: John Oliver
The Relics Senior Softball League, a beloved community organization, is reaching out for support to ensure the smooth running of its 2025 season. With tough economic times affecting businesses and individuals alike, the league is asking for assistance from local businesses and residents who can contribute.
In 2024, the league saw more sponsors than in 2023 but still received $1,000 less in funding. Many past supporters cited economic challenges as the reason for reducing or withdrawing their contributions. Despite these hurdles, the Relics remain committed to providing an enriching experience for their players and continuing as a source of community pride.
To keep the league thriving, the Relics are calling on players, fans, and local supporters to connect with businesses in their networks. Even a small contribution can make a big impact. For example, a donation of $100 ensures a sponsor's name ap-
pears on over 100 player jerseys and their logo is prominently displayed on the Relics website for the entire 2025 season—a valuable advertising opportunity for a modest investment.
If you know of a business that might be interested, let them know about the Relics’ mission and the affordable advertising opportunities available. Sponsor packages are easy to request and provide all the necessary details.
By rallying together, the community can help the Relics continue their tradition of providing camaraderie, fitness, and joy to senior softball players in the area. Whether it’s reaching out to a local business or making a personal donation, every bit of support brings the league closer to a successful season.
For more information or to request a sponsor package, contact the Relics Senior Softball League through their website. Let’s keep this cherished organization swinging for another great year!
5 DAY OUTLOOK
SOURCE: WEATHER.COM
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LOCAL NEWS
Aftershocks Continue to Rattle Pacific Northwest
Following Major Earthquake Near Petrolia, California
By: Ellen Ward
The Pacific Northwest is still feeling the reverberations from last week’s powerful earthquake near Petrolia, California, as aftershocks continue to ripple through the region. The initial quake, which struck at 10:44 a.m. last Thursday, registered a magnitude of 7.0 and was centered just off the northern California coast along the infamous San Andreas Fault.
The tremor triggered a tsunami warning, prompting widespread alerts stretching from San Francisco to the southern Oregon coast. Although the warning was canceled by noon, the incident served as a stark reminder of the volatile geological dynamics in the region and the importance of preparedness for such natural disasters.
The epicenter of the earthquake was located near Petrolia, a small coastal town in Humboldt County. Residents described the event as terrifying, with shaking lasting several seconds and causing minor structural damage to older buildings. The quake was felt as far north as southern Oregon and as far inland as Sacramento, underscoring its intensity.
In Grants Pass, Oregon, and other southern Oregon communities, emergency alert systems sent out mass notifications warning of potential tsunami risks. Although no significant waves materialized, the scare sent residents scrambling for higher ground and highlighted the critical role of these early-warning systems in mitigating panic and potential harm.
The earthquake occurred along the southern section of the San Andreas Fault, a major tectonic boundary where the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate meet. This area has long been known for its seismic activity, with the 1992 Cape Mendocino earthquakes serving as a grim precedent for how devastating these events can be. Experts say the Petrolia quake is a reminder that the region is
due for a "big one," a massive quake that could have far-reaching consequences.
Dr. Sarah Franklin, a seismologist at the University of Oregon, explained, “This quake serves as a critical reminder of the region’s susceptibility to seismic events. The San Andreas Fault system is highly active, and earthquakes of this magnitude are a part of living in this dynamic geological zone.”
Since the main quake, over 20 aftershocks have been recorded, ranging in magnitude from 2.5 to 4.5. While these smaller tremors are unlikely to cause major damage, they can be unsettling and sometimes exacerbate existing structural vulnerabilities. Emergency services have been closely monitoring the situation, and engineers are assessing infrastructure in affected areas.
“Aftershocks are a natural part of the earthquake cycle,” Franklin said. “While most will diminish in intensity over the coming weeks, it’s critical for residents to remain vigilant and prepared for additional activity.”
Local officials have praised the community’s swift response,
noting that residents followed evacuation protocols and heeded tsunami warnings promptly. Schools in the area conducted earthquake drills, and emergency services reviewed their response plans to identify areas for improvement.
“We were fortunate this time that there was no tsunami and minimal damage, but it’s a wake-up call for everyone,” said Humboldt County Sheriff Mike Hannigan. “Preparedness is key, and we encourage residents to have emergency kits, know evacuation routes, and stay informed through official channels.”
While the Petrolia quake ultimately caused little damage, it has reignited conversations about earthquake preparedness across the Pacific Northwest. With the Cascadia Subduction Zone looming offshore—a fault capable of producing a magnitude 9.0 quake— residents and authorities are reminded of the need for ongoing vigilance and robust disaster planning.
As aftershocks subside, the region takes stock of lessons learned, emphasizing the need for readiness in a land shaped and shaken by its geological forces.
