WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2025
County Commissioner Chris Barnett: More Focused on Clicks Than County Governance?
By: John Oliver
Less than a month into his term, newly elected Josephine County Commissioner Chris Barnett has already sparked controversy—not for fulfilling campaign promises or enacting policy changes, but for prioritizing social media engagement, self-promotion, and media control over effective county governance. For many residents who voted for him, this reality may come as a shock. However, for those who have been paying close attention, it appears to be a continuation of a troubling pattern.
A Commissioner More Interested in Publicity Than Policy?
Barnett’s approach to governance suggests that he views his role more as a media personality than a county leader. Instead of prioritizing policy, budgets, or the needs of the community, he appears to spend a significant amount of time on social media and other media platforms, some of which he allegedly controls or funds. Voters argue that he focuses more on creating attention-grabbing headlines and promoting personal interests, such as posting videos of his daughter’s basketball game across multiple county pages, rather than engaging in the real work of governing. His behavior mirrors that of his political ally and financial backer, former Commissioner John West, who has been known to align himself with news sources that fit his narrative or that he owns. Instead of confronting legitimate news outlets or addressing the truth, Barnett takes to the airwaves, where his prerecorded, edited messages go unchallenged. However,
when it comes to direct interaction, whether through a one-on-one meeting or an email, there is often silence.
West, who was recalled due to allegations of self-serving politics and unethical behavior, was accused of manipulating media narratives for his benefit. Now, Barnett appears to be following the same playbook, using similar tactics to push his agenda, silence critics, and discredit opposition.
Weaponizing Media to Control the Narrative
One of the biggest concerns surrounding Barnett is his use of media to suppress dissenting voices. His approach is simple: if you agree with him, you are amplified; if you oppose him, you are deleted, blocked, or even legally threatened. In a democracy, where free speech and open dialogue are fundamental, this pattern is particularly concerning.
Barnett has been accused of leveraging media sources such as The Oregon Grape, Real Live News Southern Oregon, and The Oregon Eagle—platforms he and his allies own or influence—to push misleading narratives, attack political opponents, and discredit independent journalism. In addition to these outlets, Barnett also uses his personal and various real estate and business social media pages to promote his political agenda, as well as his new venture, "Josephine County News." Those who disagree with him on these platforms reportedly find themselves blocked, raising concerns about his ability to govern fairly and objectively, as well as his adherence to the laws governing political office in the state of Oregon.
Meanwhile, traditional news organizations such as the Grants Pass Daily Courier and the Grants Pass Tribune have been labeled "fake news" by Barnett and his supporters. The hypocrisy of this claim is evident: Barnett expects residents to believe that only news coming from his personally aligned sources is legitimate, while dismissing everything else as false or biased.
Potential Ethics Violations Looming Barnett’s media entanglements may present not just a political issue but a legal one. According to the Josephine County Charter and Oregon state law, a commissioner must avoid conflicts of interest that could compromise their ability to serve the public fairly.
As a sitting commissioner, Barnett owns and operates several businesses within the
Grants Pass Faces Significant Snowstorm, Impacts Schools and Businesses
What to Expect for the Rest of the Week
By: Leaf Barret
This week, Grants Pass saw more snow than the area has experienced in quite some time, resulting in school closures, halted government operations, and disruptions to local businesses. The unexpected storm, which began on Monday night and continued into Tuesday morning, blanketed the city in several inches of snow, creating challenges for residents and visitors alike. While the snowstorm brought some beauty to the Southern Oregon landscape, it also prompted cancellations, including school closures and the temporary shutdown of the county courthouse and other businesses around town.
For many, this snowstorm was a reminder of the unpredictable nature of winter in the region, where mild weather is often interrupted by sudden cold snaps and heavy snowfall. The combination of slick roads and accumulations of snow forced schools in the Grants Pass area to close for the day on Wednesday. Parents scrambled to adjust their schedules, and local businesses were im-
pacted as well, with some choosing to close early due to safety concerns and lower foot traffic. While the snowstorm caused significant disruption, the community has shown resilience, with many helping neighbors and working together to weather the storm.
The Josephine County Courthouse also closed its doors on Wednesday, delaying legal proceedings and operations, while several businesses in the downtown area chose to temporarily shutter. Some smaller stores had difficulty keeping their doors open as sidewalks became slippery, and parking lots became difficult to navigate for cus-
tomers. Snow and ice removal efforts were underway throughout the day, but many establishments opted for caution by closing early or staying closed for the day entirely.
With schools closed on Wednesday, parents and children took to staying home and adjusting to the sudden shift in routine. According to the Grants Pass School District, schools are set to reopen on Thursday, with buses and school staff prepared to navigate the roads safely. Superintendent Jennifer Bradley noted that, while the district was working closely with road crews and local law enforcement to ensure student safety, the forecasted weather
looked more promising for Thursday, with warmer temperatures expected to help clear roads.
As for the remainder of the week, the weather forecast remains unpredictable. According to the National Weather Service, temperatures will warm slightly over the next 48 hours, potentially melting some of the snow accumulation. However, the possibility of additional snow showers and icy conditions remains throughout the week, particularly as the weekend approaches. The snowstorm’s departure is expected to bring slightly warmer temperatures, but residents are still advised to monitor road conditions and prepare for potential icy spots, especially overnight when temperatures could drop again.
Looking ahead to the weekend, meteorologists predict that the weather will remain cold
NEWS DESK
A Call for Thoughtful Action
Grants Pass Faces Legal Challenges Over Homeless Camping Policies
By: John Oliver
Grants Pass has found itself embroiled in yet another legal dispute surrounding its treatment of the homeless population, as recent decisions have once again put the city at the center of a complex legal and humanitarian issue. A temporary injunction has been issued by a Josephine County judge, blocking the city from enforcing its current regulations on homeless camping for the next two weeks. This pause in enforcement is a direct result of a legal challenge filed by Disability Rights Oregon (DRO), an advocacy group that focuses on the rights of people with disabilities.
The lawsuit was filed following the city's recent eviction of individuals from designated camping sites, including the closure of one sanctioned homeless camp and the imposition of stricter operating hours on the remaining camp. The DRO argues that these actions pose a significant threat to the safety and well-being of unhoused individuals, particularly those with disabilities. The group asserts that the city’s approach violates constitutional protections and state laws designed to protect the rights of homeless individuals. The legal challenge underscores a broader concern about the consequences of snap
decisions made without adequate consideration of their long-term impacts. While the city has framed its actions as necessary for public safety, the abruptness of these policies has left many individuals vulnerable. The closure of camps and the reduced operating hours of the remaining shelter options have created a crisis, with no clear alternatives in sight for those displaced.
The legal battle stems from the reality that the homeless population in Grants Pass is already at a disadvantage, with limited resources and shelter options available. Advocates argue that the city's enforcement measures, which focus on closing camping sites without offering alternative housing, exacerbate the hardships faced by those most vulnerable. The eviction of individuals from the camps has left many without a safe place to sleep, creating an unstable and dangerous situation.
While the city's efforts to manage homelessness are driven by legitimate concerns for public safety, they fail to address the root causes of the issue. The lack of sufficient
shelter alternatives, combined with a lack of long-term solutions, has left the city in a legal and moral bind. The challenge brought by DRO highlights how the city’s actions may be in violation of legal precedents, including the landmark Martin v. City of Boise decision, which established that municipalities cannot criminalize homelessness without providing adequate alternatives for shelter.
The temporary restraining order issued by the court provides the city with a two-week period to reassess its policies and approach. This time frame allows the court to evaluate the legal validity of the city’s actions, giving all parties involved an opportunity to present their case. Should the city fail to amend its regulations to address the concerns raised by DRO, a hearing will be scheduled to determine the legality of the city's approach to homelessness.
The recurring cycle of legal challenges in Grants Pass speaks to a broader issue facing many communities across Oregon and the nation: the growing homeless crisis. As winter conditions persist, the lack of adequate
shelter options and resources is exacerbating the situation. Without careful thought and long-term planning, the same disputes will continue to repeat, draining local resources and fostering legal complications that make it harder to solve the issue.
The solution lies not in more reactive policies or hastily enacted regulations, but in a collaborative and thoughtful approach that brings together city officials, community organizations, advocates, and residents. It is only through open dialogue, genuine partnerships, and a commitment to addressing homelessness with dignity and compassion that Grants Pass can move forward. Until the city takes the time to sit down and consider all the factors at play—human rights, public safety, and the long-term well-being of the community— these cycles of legal trouble and unresolved issues will continue to plague the city. Grants Pass cannot afford to waste any more time. The stakes are too high, and the solution is within reach. The city must find a way to balance the needs of its unhoused residents with the expectations of the broader community, and it must do so in a way that respects the law and human dignity. The outcome of this legal challenge may shape not only the future of homeless policy in Grants Pass but also set a precedent for other municipalities grappling with the same difficult issue. Only by making thoughtful, forward-thinking decisions can the city hope to break this cycle of legal conflict and find lasting solutions to the homelessness crisis.
Commissioner Chris Barnett has already sparked controversy
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community and maintains an active presence on at least six social media pages. He frequently uses these platforms to promote both his personal business interests and county commissioner matters. More concerning is his involvement with Real Live News Southern Oregon and his more recent creation, Josephine County News—a self-published media platform with no formal approval, state registration, or oversight. Notably, a search of the Secretary of State’s database indicates that the name Josephine County News was registered by a Dennis M. Becklin in 2003, raising questions about the legitimacy of Barnett’s claims to the title.
The most glaring issue is the conflict of interest created by Barnett’s dual roles. As both a news publisher and an elected official, he has the ability to shape how county affairs are reported, often in ways that serve his own interests. While the role of a free press is to hold government accountable, Barnett’s involvement in media allows him to control the narrative rather than be scrutinized by it.
This conflict became even more apparent during a recent county executive session when Commissioner Andreas Blech asked independent journalist J.J. Scofield, representing The Grants Pass Tribune, to leave. The Tribune, much like Barnett’s news outlets, is not an officially recognized newspaper by the Board of Commissioners. Yet, Barnett was allowed to stay while Scofield was removed—an act that raises serious questions about fairness, transparency, and the suppression of dissenting voices. Scofield protested the decision, citing his First Amendment rights and arguing that barring him was an example of blatant bias. His objections were ignored. Meanwhile, the Grants Pass Daily Courier—an officially recognized outlet—was allowed to stay. If media sources are being excluded based on their lack of official status, why is Barnett’s news outlet exempt from the same rules?
The way media outlets are being handled under the current Board of Commissioners reveals a pattern of hypocrisy and
censorship. If independent journalists like Scofield are being dismissed due to a lack of official recognition, yet Barnett is allowed to remain, then the board is effectively silencing critical reporting while promoting its own controlled messaging.
Furthermore, Barnett has been accused of deleting critical comments from his social media pages, further demonstrating a pattern of suppressing dissent. For an elected official, transparency is paramount. When a county commissioner actively silences critics and refuses to engage with opposing views, it undermines the democratic process.
Adding to these concerns is the fact that Barnett campaigned on a promise to dedicate 100% of his time to serving as commissioner. Yet, he continues to operate multiple businesses—including real estate ventures, food review blogs, drone photography, and his self-run news outlets. If his job as commissioner is a full-time commitment funded by taxpayers, how does he find the time to juggle so many side ventures?
A Growing Threat to Democracy
The increasing control over media is not the only alarming trend emerging in Josephine County. The new Board of Commissioners appears to be stifling opposition through more aggressive means. Dissenting voices—whether journalists, community members, or county employees—are being met with censorship, termination threats, lawsuits, and public slander.
If Barnett continues to actively operate or financially support media outlets while simultaneously serving in government, he may find himself in direct violation of ethical guidelines. The Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) explicitly state that public officials cannot use their office to benefit private interests. Given that Barnett’s media platforms are used to shape public opinion in his favor, the question arises: Is he governing, or is he using his elected position to act as a media mogul?
The solution, according to legal experts, is clear. Barnett must choose between his media empire and his elected office.
If he wishes to continue producing news content, he should recuse himself from all executive sessions and ensure his media operations are entirely independent from his role as commissioner. Essentially, this means he should resign as commissioner, as overseeing executive sessions is a crucial part of his elected duties. Alternatively, he must sever ties with these media platforms and commit to the ethical standards required by his position.
A “Fresh Start” or More of the Same?
During his campaign, Barnett promised a "fresh start" for Josephine County, positioning himself as a change agent who would bring transparency and fairness to local government. However, his early actions suggest otherwise. Instead of focusing on pressing county issues—such as economic development, homelessness, public safety, the library, and infrastructure—he has devoted substantial time to controlling public perception through media manipulation. It has also been reported that county employees have been tasked with scrutinizing photos used by the Grants Pass Tribune, suggesting that retaliation against independent media is taking precedence over county business, wasting taxpayer dollars in the process.
Many voters are now questioning whether Barnett’s campaign promises were ever sincere. Did he truly intend to lead with integrity, or was his goal to establish a self-serving media network under the guise of public service?
The coming weeks and months will be telling. If Barnett continues down this path, he may face increasing public scrutiny, potential legal consequences, and even the threat of recall—just like his predecessor, John West.
The citizens of Josephine County deserve elected officials who prioritize policy over publicity, facts over propaganda, and governance over grandstanding. Time will tell whether Barnett rises to that challenge—or follows the path of self-interest that has already led one commissioner to political downfall.
POLITICS
Joe Biden Signs with Creative Artists Agency to Strengthen Post-Presidency “Biden Brand”
Gpt news desk
Two weeks after his departure from the White House, Joe Biden has secured representation with Creative Artists Agency (CAA), a prominent entertainment and talent agency based in Los Angeles. CAA, which has a history of representing high-profile figures, including former President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama, confirmed the news on Monday.
This marks a return for Biden to CAA, as the agency previously represented him from 2017 to 2020 during his tenure as vice president. CAA’s extensive portfolio includes a range of political figures, celebrities, athletes, and business leaders, making it one of the most influential agencies in the industry. Their services cover a broad spectrum, including media placement, book deals, and public speaking engagements, among other opportunities.
The timing of the deal is notable, as Biden is in the early stages of his post-presidency phase, a period when many former presidents secure representation to help manage their public and professional lives. The representation will likely assist Biden as he navigates this new chapter, which could include writing books, speaking engagements, and other public appearances. In addition to assisting with these efforts, CAA’s extensive connections in the media and entertain-
ment industries could provide a platform for Biden to expand his post-presidency visibility.
While Biden’s focus is expected to be on public service and initiatives that align with his political and personal interests, this move aligns with the trend of former political figures leveraging their post-office status to remain influential in various fields. It’s not uncommon for former presidents and high-ranking officials to secure representation after leaving office, as they often seek to continue their public engagement through media appearances and endorsements.
Given CAA’s track record of working with influential political figures, including its representation of the Obamas, Biden’s decision to return to the agency may indicate that he is preparing for a significant post-presidency role in both the po-
litical and public spheres. CAA has been instrumental in securing lucrative deals for many of its clients, particularly in the realm of book publishing, speaking engagements, and media appearances, areas in which Biden may seek to capitalize on his name recognition and continued political relevance.
As Biden embarks on his post-presidency journey, the partnership with CAA will likely shape his future professional trajectory. The agency’s reach in various sectors could facilitate opportunities for Biden that align with his interests in public policy, advocacy, and civic engagement. Moreover, it is expected that Biden will be a prominent figure in political discourse for the foreseeable future, with potential involvement in the development of key initiatives, both domestically and globally.
Though CAA has represented many major figures in politics and entertainment, it remains to be seen how Biden will use the agency’s services. Whether it’s through writing, speaking, or other forms of public engagement, Biden’s post-presidency is poised to be an active and visible one, supported by a powerful representation network in the form of CAA. The agency's experience with political figures, such as the Obamas, positions it well to assist Biden in navigating the complex demands of public life following his tenure as president.
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COMMUNITY
Area 61 Taphouse in Merlin, Oregon, Suffers Damage to New Shot Tracing Driving Range
By: John Oliver
Merlin, Oregon — Heavy snowfall in the area caused extensive damage to the newly opened shot tracing driving range at Area 61 Taphouse. The weight of the accumulated snow on the range’s net resulted in multiple poles snapping, leading to the complete collapse of the structure. Fortunately, no injuries occurred since the taphouse was closed at the time.
The driving range, a recent addition to the venue, had quickly gained popularity among local golfers. It featured advanced shot tracing technology that allowed players to monitor the speed, trajectory, and distance of their shots. As a major attraction for both experienced golfers and newcomers, the range had contributed to an increase in visitors to the taphouse.
According to staff, snow began accumulating on the netting structure early Monday. As the buildup continued, the weight exceeded the structure’s capacity, leading to the failure of the supporting poles and the subsequent collapse of the entire range. Since the taphouse was closed when the
incident occurred, no patrons or staff were present, preventing any risk of injury.
The damage has left the future of the driving range uncertain. The taphouse had planned to keep it open for weekend use, but the unexpected snowstorm forced a temporary closure. Had the storm arrived just a few hours later, the situation could have been even more severe, as the range would have been open to visitors.
At this time, it remains unclear how long repairs will take or what the total cost will be. The owners have not provided an official estimate or timeline for reopening. With structural damage caused by the weight of the snow, a full assessment is still in progress.
The sudden collapse has raised concerns within the community about the longterm viability of the range. Since opening, it had quickly become a key attraction for
local golf enthusiasts, and its closure has left many wondering when it will return. Despite the setback, the owners remain optimistic about restoring the facility.
While the driving range is out of commission, the taphouse continues to operate, offering its usual food and drink services. The owners plan to provide updates through social media, keeping the community informed about repair progress and a potential reopening date.
Local golf fans remain hopeful that the facility will be rebuilt quickly, allowing them to once again enjoy the unique experience it offered. Though the collapse is a significant setback, Area 61 Taphouse remains a favorite destination for residents. Many patrons are confident that, once repaired, the driving range will continue to be a popular attraction for the area.
Mt. Ashland Ski Area Faces Catastrophic Water Supply Breakdown
GPT News Desk
Mt. Ashland Ski Area has announced the temporary closure of its operations due to a catastrophic failure in its water supply system. This unexpected event has caused significant disruptions, forcing the mountain to halt its activities as they work toward resolving the issue. The management provided an update, explaining the situation, their response, and their plans moving forward.
According to the ski area, the damage to their pump station, a critical component of their water supply system, is extensive. Without a functioning water supply, operations on the mountain have been severely impacted. As a result, the decision to close the facility was unavoidable to prioritize repairs and ensure safety and functionality.
In an effort to address the crisis, Mt. Ashland has engaged professional ser-
vices to expedite repairs to the pump station. Recognizing the essential need for temporary sanitary solutions during this period, they have also contracted with a company capable of transporting 15 portable restroom units up the mountain's access road. These units will be maintained and serviced regularly to meet the needs of staff and visitors once operations resume.
The management has directed the public to their official website, where a detailed update on the situation and next steps has been posted. Guests and stakeholders are encouraged to review the information provided to stay informed about the impact and the ongoing efforts to restore normalcy.
"We are actively working on a plan for reopening and will share updates on Thursday and beyond," stated the Mt. Ashland team. The organization remains committed to resolving the issue
as quickly as possible to ensure minimal disruption to the remainder of the ski season.
Despite the challenges, the ski area emphasizes its dedication to supporting its employees during this difficult time. Keeping the team employed and morale high remains a top priority. Equally important to the management is their commitment to providing visitors with a memorable alpine experience, underscoring their determination to reopen and maintain operations for the rest of the season.
While the closure is an unforeseen setback, Mt. Ashland's efforts to address the situation swiftly and transparently reflect their commitment to the community, staff, and visitors. Updates will continue to be provided as progress is made, with the ski area hopeful for a prompt resolution and a successful reopening.
GRANTS PASS WEATHER
5 DAY OUTLOOK
Rain 39/31
SOURCE: WEATHER.COM WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
cloudy 43/24
cloudy 44/24 Rain and snow 41/31 Mostly sunny 45/22
Snowstorm Impacts Schools and Businesses
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but relatively clear. Saturday and Sunday are expected to see more moderate temperatures, which should help with the melting process, although scattered snow showers cannot be ruled out. With the possibility of intermittent snowfalls, it is crucial for drivers to remain vigilant and exercise caution on the roads, particularly in the early mornings and late evenings when freezing conditions are more likely to occur.
In addition to clearing the snow from city streets, local officials are reminding residents to take extra precautions during the remaining winter months. Local businesses and homeowners are encouraged to keep sidewalks and driveways clear of snow and ice to prevent accidents. Grants Pass public works crews have been working around the clock to ensure key routes are cleared and safe for both commuters and emergency vehicles, but with the unpredictability of winter weather, delays in snow removal are possible.
Community members are also advised to stay updated with the latest weather reports and to plan accordingly for any disruptions in services. Although it appears that this snowstorm will be short-lived, it has served as a reminder that Southern Oregon is not immune to the types of winter weather that can impact everyday life.
For those in the region hoping for a bit more stability, the coming days will offer some reprieve. Schools will reopen today, allowing students to return to their classrooms and catch up on missed lessons. Meanwhile, businesses that closed during the storm are expected to resume normal operations, though customers are encouraged to call ahead to confirm hours of operation, as weather conditions may change unexpectedly.
Despite the disruption, the snowstorm has given the Grants Pass community an opportunity to come together, supporting one another and showing the region’s characteristic resilience. As winter continues, local residents can expect to face more challenges, but the forecasted end to this snowstorm, along with a clear weekend, offers hope for a smoother road ahead.
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Posting Date February 3, 2025
February 3, 2025
February 3, 2025
NATIONAL NEWS
Man Tackled and Detained After Opening Fire at Pasadena, Texas High School Band Competition
GPT News Desk
Pasadena, Texas — A shooting at Pasadena Memorial High School on Saturday evening left one person injured during a band competition that involved students from various school districts. Authorities reported that a man, believed to be in his 80s, entered the school and opened fire with a small-caliber weapon. However, quick action from bystanders prevented the situation from escalating further, as several individuals tackled the shooter and helped detain him until police arrived.
scene, where they were able to arrest the suspect without further incident. Several people present at the competition, including parents and other attendees, acted swiftly to subdue the shooter, preventing him from causing more harm. Their actions were credited with averting a potential tragedy, as they managed to disarm the suspect and hold him until law enforcement took control.
the injured consultant and thanked the bystanders who helped prevent further harm.
While the motive for the attack remains under investigation, school officials and law enforcement agencies are taking additional precautions in light of the incident. Schools across the region are reviewing their security protocols to ensure the safety of students, staff, and attendees at future events.
The shooting has raised concerns
about safety at public events, particularly at school-related activities where large crowds are gathered. Local authorities have pledged to continue their efforts to address public safety and prevent future incidents of this nature.
As the investigation continues, residents of Pasadena and surrounding communities are grappling with the unsettling reality of the shooting, which occurred at what was meant to be a celebration of student talent and achievement.
The incident occurred during an event that brought together bands from multiple districts, including Pasadena Memorial High School and other schools in the region. The shooting took place in a public area of the school while the competition was underway. The suspect, identified as an elderly man, discharged the weapon, injuring a percussion technical consultant from the Angleton Independent School District. The consultant was struck in the shoulder and was immediately transported to a nearby hospital. Officials confirmed that he is in stable condition, and his injuries are not life-threatening.
Authorities responded quickly to the
The Pasadena Police Department confirmed that the man was arrested and is currently in custody, though no immediate charges have been filed. Investigators are working to determine the motive behind the shooting, and officials have stated that they are still in the early stages of their investigation. At this time, it is unclear whether the suspect had any prior connection to the school or the band competition.
The Angleton Independent School District, which confirmed the identity of the wounded individual, expressed relief that the situation was contained quickly and that the injured person was expected to recover. The district offered its support to
Mugshot of 83-year-old Dennis Erwin Brandl Jr.
