Uniting for Solutions
How Local Nonprofits Like Elk Island Trading Group Are Pushing for Real Change in Homelessness Response
By E. Ward
Tackling homelessness is a complex challenge that no single individual or agency can solve alone. It requires collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment from the entire community. One organization hoping to lead that effort is Elk Island Trading Group, LLC, which recently submitted a grant application to the City of Grants Pass to fund a proposed emergency shelter project designed to offer structured, individualized care for the city’s unhoused population.
On July 18, Elk Island formally applied for municipal grant funding to launch a facility capable of sheltering more than 150 individuals. Unlike traditional shelter models that often rely on large, communal spaces and generic services, Elk Island’s approach is rooted in evaluation, stability, and transitional care tailored to each guest’s needs. At the heart of the proposal is a belief in both accountability and dignity—focusing on helping individuals not just survive, but stabilize and eventually thrive.
“Homelessness is a reality, and ignoring it will not make it disappear,” said Bernie Woodard, founder of Elk Island. “Our proposal isn’t about a quick fix or warehousing peo-
ple. It’s about building systems that work— because we’ve already done it before, and we know what it takes.”
Elk Island has spent the last decade operating emergency shelters and city-sanctioned tent communities, including three successful sites in Roseburg, Oregon. These communities emphasized order, structure, and personal accountability while offering unhoused individuals a genuine opportunity to move forward. Unlike many nonprofit ventures, Elk Island accomplished this without government funding or city subsidies—providing more than 15,000 days and nights of shelter at no cost to Roseburg taxpayers.
What sets their Grants Pass proposal apart is the promise of enclosed sleeping units with real beds, ADA-compliant accommodations, and a triage intake system that begins the moment someone steps onto the property. This immediate assessment process helps determine the most effective course of care—whether it’s substance abuse support, mental health services, or simply job readiness and housing assistance.
While their expansion efforts in Roseburg have stalled due to bureaucratic delays, Elk Island sees Grants Pass as a city ready to
lead the way for others across Oregon. Woodard believes that with partial funding from the city, the model could make a measurable impact, potentially resolving homelessness within the city limits through a balanced mix of compassion, structure, and scalability.
But the significance of this effort goes beyond shelter beds. Elk Island’s proposal highlights a critical reality: the homelessness crisis cannot be solved in isolation. It requires city officials, service providers, businesses, volunteers, and the public to engage in meaningful dialogue, share ideas, and implement realistic, sustainable systems. As Woodard emphasized, “The solution cannot be so oversized that it fosters dependence, nor so minimal that it fails to matter. It has to be smart, responsive, and built with a longterm vision.”
The application arrives at a time when homelessness has become one of the most
• see LOCAL, page 3
U.S. Withdraws from UNESCO, Marking Shift in International Cultural Diplomacy
By John Oliver
The United States has officially withdrawn from UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, signaling a notable shift in its approach to international cultural and scientific cooperation. The decision, made under the administration of President Donald Trump, severs ties with an agency historically supported by U.S. leadership since its founding in the aftermath of World War II. UNESCO was established in 1945 with the mission of promoting peace and mutual understanding by fostering collaboration in the fields of education, science, culture, and communication. The agency has been instrumental in global initiatives ranging from preserving cultural heritage sites to supporting education in developing countries and promoting freedom of expression.
U.S. officials cited longstanding concerns over what they described as political bias and mismanagement within the organization. The decision to exit follows years of criticism that UNESCO has taken positions that the U.S. government has viewed as unfavorable or politically motivated, particularly in relation to Middle East policies.
The Trump administration emphasized the need for institutional reform and a more balanced approach to international representation within the organization.
This is not the first time the United States has withdrawn from UNESCO. In 1984, the Reagan administration pulled out over concerns about the organization's perceived anti-Western bias and questioned its effectiveness. The U.S. remained absent for nearly two decades before rejoining in 2003 under President George W. Bush, citing a renewed commitment to international engagement after the September 11 attacks. However, tensions resurfaced in 2011 when UNESCO admitted Palestine as a full member state, prompt-
Targeted Intimidation
Threatening Emails Sent to Critics of Local Government
By John Oliver
A disturbing trend has emerged in Josephine County, where individuals who have spoken out against local elected officials or voiced support for recall efforts are now facing a new wave of intimidation—anonymous threats delivered via email. Writers for the Grants Pass Tribune are among those targeted, and the pattern is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
The messages are sent from the encrypted email address truthjustice@tutamail.com, which originates from the privacy-focused platform TutaMail. Ironically, the service is often used by journalists seeking to protect their identities when reporting sensitive stories—yet in this case, it is being misused to deliver menacing messages to citizens, journalists, and activists who have publicly challenged the conduct and decision-making of certain Republican figures in local government.
The common link among the victims appears to be simple: they’ve criticized a vocal and aggressive faction of Republican operatives—individuals who claim to represent conservative values but appear increasingly out of touch with the broader community. These political actors gained traction in recent elections, often using dishonest tactics, personal attacks, and misinformation to discredit their opponents and manipulate public perception.
Now, anyone who continues to question their leadership or refuses to fall in line with their narratives seems to face retaliation. The Grants Pass Tribune has received several of these emails firsthand, and other communi-
ing the Obama administration to halt financial contributions in compliance with U.S. law. The funding freeze eventually led to the U.S. losing its voting rights within the organization in 2013.
The financial impact of the U.S. departure is significant. At the time of its withdrawal, the United States had been one of the largest contributors to UNESCO’s budget. The loss of U.S. funding will further challenge the agency’s financial stability, especially as it continues to implement global initiatives such as literacy programs, cultural preservation efforts, and scientific research partnerships.
UNESCO leadership has expressed
• see U.S., page 5
• see THREATENING, page 3
Los Angeles Couple Fatally Shot With Their Own Gun; 22-Year-Old Suspect in Custody
News Desk
Authorities have confirmed that a young man is in custody following the fatal shooting of a prominent television music executive and her husband, in what investigators describe as a domestic violence-related double homicide involving the victims’ own firearm.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has charged 22-year-old Raymond Boodarian with two counts of murder in connection with the deaths of Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca. Kaye, a respected music supervisor known for her work on the long-running television show American Idol, and her husband were found deceased in their Los Angeles home earlier this week.
According to District Attorney Nathan Hochman, Boodarian is accused of using a firearm belonging to the couple to carry out the fatal shootings. Following the incident, Boodarian reportedly contacted law enforcement himself and remained at the scene until officers arrived. He was taken into custody without incident.
The motive behind the killings has not been publicly disclosed, and officials have not clarified the nature of Boodarian’s re-
lationship to the victims. However, law enforcement sources have suggested the incident may have stemmed from a domestic dispute, and there is no indication that the attack was random.
Authorities recovered the firearm believed to have been used in the shootings at the scene. Ballistics and forensic evidence are currently under review to confirm whether it was the couple’s legally owned weapon.
The District Attorney’s Office has not ruled out the possibility of additional
charges, including special circumstances that could make Boodarian eligible for life in prison without the possibility of parole. He is expected to be formally arraigned later this week at the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center in downtown Los Angeles.
Robin Kaye was widely regarded within the entertainment industry for her role in curating music for American Idol and other productions. Tributes have poured in from colleagues and artists, describing her as a deeply passionate and influential fig-
ure in the music and television world. Her husband, Thomas Deluca, was not publicly known in the entertainment industry, but neighbors described the couple as private and well-respected members of their community.
The tragic deaths have sent shockwaves through both the entertainment industry and the local neighborhood, prompting renewed conversations about gun safety, domestic violence, and mental health.
Boodarian remains in custody at the Los Angeles County Jail without bail. Prosecutors have requested that he be held due to the severity of the charges and the nature of the alleged crime. His defense representation has not yet issued a public statement.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to contact the Los Angeles Police Department’s Homicide Division. Meanwhile, the community mourns the loss of two lives that were, by all accounts, tightly woven into the fabric of both entertainment and neighborhood life.
Funeral arrangements for Kaye and Deluca have not yet been announced.
Local Nonprofits Pushing for Real Change in Homelessness Response
From page 1
pressing and visible issues facing Grants Pass. As encampments increase and public frustration grows, city leaders are under pressure to act. But short-term fixes and punitive measures often prove ineffective or unsustainable. Proposals like Elk Island’s represent an alternative: rooted in lived experience, tested models, and a deep under-
standing of what’s required to move individuals from crisis to self-sufficiency.
Even if the grant is not awarded, Elk Island has pledged to remain committed to the Grants Pass community—offering support in park and trail restoration, business district revitalization, and outreach efforts that provide viable options for those cur-
rently living on the streets.
From page 1
ty members have reported receiving nearly identical messages.
One such email, dated July 16, was littered with grammatical errors and threatening rhetoric. Phrases like “Get ready for action. Watch your mail daily,” and “Your next for your exposure and boy its like nothing your seen before,” reflect an attempt at intimidation, despite their poorly constructed syntax. The message’s language may be amateurish, but the intent to instill fear is unmistakable.
Those receiving the emails all have one thing in common: they’ve publicly expressed concern about the direction of county government and the conduct of those in power. They’ve called for accountability, transpar-
ency, and responsibility—values that should form the foundation of public service. Instead of receiving answers, they’re now receiving threats.
The Grants Pass Tribune has long been a target for these tactics. For nearly two years, the paper has published investigative articles exposing questionable behavior by public officials. In return, it has been sued, defamed, and subjected to legal and political harassment by the same circle of individuals now suspected of orchestrating these email threats. With new legal counsel secured, the Tribune is preparing to revive legal action against ALL those involved.
While the threats themselves may not al-
As the city evaluates its grant applicants, the broader community faces a choice: continue with fragmented efforts, or support initiatives that are built on collaboration and a clear path forward. In the end, resolving homelessness will require more than funding—it will take unity, compassion, and the courage to back programs that work.
The path to ending homelessness is neither simple nor swift. But when nonprofits, local governments, and community members work together, it becomes possible to build a future where everyone has a place to call home.
Threatening Emails Sent to Critics of Local Government by Fringe Political Supporters
ways meet the threshold of a prosecutable crime, they clearly demonstrate an intent to silence critics. The use of anonymous, encrypted messaging platforms reflects cowardice, not conviction. If these individuals truly had facts and integrity on their side, they would not need to hide behind fake names and empty threats.
Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3.gov), provide pathways for victims of cyber harassment to report these incidents. TutaMail’s operators, based in Germany, have indicated they will comply with valid legal requests in serious criminal cases, including blackmail and harassment.
These intimidation tactics are a direct affront to the principles of open government and free speech. A small group of politically motivated individuals cannot be allowed to dictate public discourse through fear and bullying. Their actions reflect desperation, not strength.
The community must not be silenced. The growing call for accountability and change in Josephine County is not being driven by radicals—it’s being fueled by residents who want fair, honest, and functional governance. These threats only confirm the need for continued vigilance and civic engagement.
We are not a county ruled by fear, and we never will be.
Trump Suggests Stadium Deal Could Be Blocked Unless Washington Commanders Restore Former Team Name
News Desk
President Donald Trump reignited a cultural controversy over the weekend by threatening to block federal support for a proposed stadium development in the nation’s capital unless the Washington Commanders revert to their former name.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump criticized the NFL team’s 2020 name change, calling the current moniker "ridiculous" and insisting the franchise return to its previous identity. “The Washington 'Whatever’s' should IMMEDIATELY change their name back to the Washington Redskins Football Team,” Trump wrote. He added that he may "put a restriction" on the team, potentially obstructing the stadium project if his demand is not met.
The Washington football franchise, which was originally known as the Boston Braves before becoming the Redskins in 1933, moved to Washington, D.C., in 1937. For over 80 years, the team was known as the Redskins before retiring the name in 2020 amid growing public backlash and calls from Native American groups and corporate spon-
sors to abandon what many considered a racial slur. After temporarily playing as the Washington Football Team, the franchise adopted the Commanders name in 2022.
The renewed debate comes as team officials and city leaders continue negotiations about the potential construction of a new stadium to replace FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland. Several locations in the District of Columbia have been under discussion, including a redevelopment of the RFK Stadium site, which has remained dormant since
the team last played there in 1996.
Federal involvement in the project is likely, as the RFK site is situated on land controlled by the National Park Service and would require legislative or executive action to move forward with redevelopment. Trump’s statement signals that his administration may use its authority to influence the outcome of such a deal based on cultural and political considerations rather than infrastructure or economic priorities.
The Commanders organization has not issued a public response to Trump’s remarks. However, the franchise has previously stated that the decision to retire the Redskins name was part of a broader effort to align with modern values and community expectations. The move came during a time of nationwide reckoning over racial and cultural representation, prompted in part by the 2020 protests following the death of George Floyd.
Trump’s comments align with his broader political messaging, which frequently emphasizes opposition to what he characterizes as “political correctness” and cultural shifts that he claims un-
U.S. Withdraws from UNESCO
From page 1 regret over the decision, while reaffirming its commitment to international cooperation and its continued work with member states to uphold its founding values. Some diplomats and policy analysts have raised concerns that the U.S. withdrawal could weaken global efforts to protect cultural heritage in conflict zones, combat extremism through education, and foster cross-border scientific collaboration—areas where UNESCO has historically
played a pivotal role.
Despite the formal withdrawal, U.S. representatives have indicated that the country will remain engaged with the international community on cultural and educational matters through other bilateral and multilateral channels. However, critics argue that disengagement from UNESCO may diminish the United States’ influence in shaping global norms and standards in education, science,
and cultural preservation.
dermine traditional American identity. Throughout his presidency and current campaign, Trump has often criticized changes to historic symbols, statues, brand names, and sports team identities.
While some supporters echo Trump’s sentiment, arguing the original name was a point of pride and tradition for many fans, Native American advocacy organizations and civil rights groups continue to reject such calls. These groups maintain that the term “Redskins” is an offensive racial slur with deep roots in the marginalization and dehumanization of Indigenous peoples.
At present, the future of the Commanders' stadium remains uncertain. City leaders, community stakeholders, and federal officials will need to navigate not only logistical and financial considerations but now also renewed political pressure over the team’s identity. Whether Trump’s threat to intervene in the stadium deal materializes remains to be seen, but the issue has once again brought the contentious debate over sports branding and cultural sensitivity into the national spotlight.
The move reflects a broader trend in U.S. foreign policy under the Trump administration, which has prioritized national sovereignty and skepticism of multilateral institutions. Similar withdrawals from other international agreements and organizations—including the Paris Climate Accord and the Iran nuclear deal—have underscored a shift toward a more unilateral approach in addressing global issues.
As UNESCO moves forward without one of its founding and most influential members, the agency faces the dual challenge of maintaining its global mission while navigating the political and financial ripple effects of the U.S. exit. Whether this marks a temporary disengagement or a longer-term realignment of U.S. participation in international cultural diplomacy remains to be seen.
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COMMUNITY GRANTS PASS WEATHER
Britt Festival Honors Firefighters with Discounted Concert Tickets
In a continued effort to recognize the vital contributions of local firefighting personnel, the Britt Music & Arts Festival is once again offering discounted concert tickets to the region’s firefighters and emergency fire staff. Now in its second year, the initiative is designed to show appreciation for those who work tirelessly to protect Southern Oregon communities during wildfire season and beyond.
As part of this program, Britt is making Lawn tickets available for just $25 each to three upcoming summer concerts at its Jacksonville outdoor venue. Eligible fire personnel can enjoy performances by Dirtwire on July 25, DISPATCH on July 29, and the legendary pairing of Taj Mahal & Steve Earle on July 31. Each eligible firefighter can purchase up to four discounted tickets per show, allowing them to attend with family or friends.
The discounted tickets can be secured by visiting the Britt Main Office at 216 W. Main Street in Medford or by calling the Box Office directly at 541-773-6077. To receive the discount, firefighters must provide valid agency identification or other official proof of employment with a fire service or wildfire response agency.
Britt officials emphasized that the offer is not only a gesture of gratitude but also a reflection of the community’s admiration for those on the front lines of the region’s in-
Letter
from the Editor
creasingly intense fire seasons.
“Our firefighters and emergency responders put their lives on the line every year to keep our communities and wildlands safe,” said a Britt spokesperson. “This is one small way we can say thank you and welcome them to enjoy a night of music and relaxation under the stars.”
The Britt Festival, now a mainstay of the Rogue Valley’s summer arts calendar, has become known for its diverse lineup of musical acts and its scenic outdoor amphitheater in the hills above Jacksonville. By continuing this firefighter ticket initiative, Britt aims to reinforce the importance of community partnerships and the cultural role that music can play in offering reprieve and recognition.
This year’s featured artists span genres and generations. Dirtwire brings an electri-
fied mix of global instrumentation and Americana-inspired beats. DISPATCH, known for their socially conscious lyrics and folk-rock sound, remains a favorite among fans of festival-style performances. Meanwhile, blues legend Taj Mahal and country-folk icon Steve Earle offer a blend of American roots music sure to resonate with diverse audiences.
Britt encourages firefighters to take advantage of the opportunity not only to enjoy world-class performances but also to connect with the broader community in a celebration of music, resilience, and service.
For more information or to reserve tickets, fire personnel are urged to contact the Britt Box Office before show dates, as availability may be limited. The Britt Festival extends its sincere thanks to all fire personnel for their continued service and sacrifice.
Thank You, Grants Pass and Beyond — The Readers Have Spoken
In an era where traditional news has become either too corporate, too scripted, or too inaccessible, something remarkable has been happening right here in Southern Oregon. The Grants Pass Tribune, which began as a grassroots beta experiment, has grown into a media force of over six million readers worldwide—without a single dollar spent on advertising. That number wasn’t manufactured or inflated. It was built organically by people like you, the readers, who shared, engaged with, and supported our work from day one.
This isn’t a story about self-congratulations. It’s a thank-you letter—one that comes with deep appreciation for the community that fuels us and the unexpected but powerful reach that has made the Tribune more than just a local paper. From our neighbors here in Grants Pass to readers in distant countries, your support has made it clear: people are hungry for real stories told with passion, purpose, and just the right dash of personality.
It turns out that our most-read article this month wasn’t about political corruption, courtroom drama, or national outrage. It was a story about the new floating and river use fees. Last year’s top piece? The sale of Taprock to Cartwright’s. Sometimes, it’s the seemingly simple stories—rooted in local culture and history—that resonate most. And
that’s a powerful reminder: not all news has to be political to matter. Sometimes it just has to be real.
Sure, we’ve tackled our fair share of political investigations and local government watchdog reporting, and we’ll continue to do so. We've been threatened, sued, and labeled “fake news”—but those accusations usually say more about the accuser than the article itself. Every story we publish is backed by documentation, public records, or testimony from residents themselves. If there’s one thing we pride ourselves on, it’s the truth—and we make it a point to let the facts do the talking. Our newsroom isn’t driven by advertising clicks or corporate gatekeepers. We have no pop-up ads, no subscription fees, and no paywalls. We’re funded by passion, not profit, and the content is powered by a daily flood of community tips, emails, text messages, and social media messages. In many ways, this newspaper belongs to the people. You're not just readers—you’re contributors, informants, and collaborators in the shared mission of truth and transparency.
We understand that the modern reader doesn’t always want long-winded or overstuffed pieces. That’s why we aim for clarity and brevity—unless, of course, Jay Meredith is writing. His in-depth analysis may run long,
but it’s always full of insight and worth every word. The point is, we’re always striving to strike a balance between substance and readability, news and narrative, and hard-hitting facts and community-driven storytelling.
What sets the Grants Pass Tribune apart is not just our commitment to truth, but our accessibility. We are 100% free, always.
Whether you're reading on your phone, tablet, or computer, our content is open and available—no barriers, no nonsense. That’s by design. We believe that in a functioning democracy, information should be accessible to all, regardless of income, status, or politics.
From covering nonprofits and neighborhood events to exposing the failures of elected officials, we’ve made it our mission to publish only what matters. No filler, no fluff, and no “news” that isn’t news. And judging by the engagement numbers, the community agrees.
So, from the bottom of our hearts: thank you. Thank you for reading, sharing, commenting, correcting, and caring. You’ve helped us grow from a small-town experiment to a global news platform. You’ve made it clear that there’s still room in this world for honest journalism with a local heart and a global reach.
The Grants Pass Tribune was never supposed to become what it is today—but thanks to you, it has. And we’re just getting started.
5 DAY OUTLOOK
SOURCE: WEATHER.COM WEDNESDAY
Sunny 96/60 Sunny 94/60 Mostly sunny, possible showers 92/59 Mostly sunny 96/62
sunny 92/60
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By John Oliver
Yes, Walmart Sells Motorcycles — But Only Online
Walmart is known for selling just about everything under the sun — from frozen burritos to fishing gear. But did you know they also sell full-sized motorcycles? That’s right. Tucked away on Walmart.com is a surprising addition to their inventory: the X-Pro 250cc street motorcycle, a gas-powered, oil-cooled machine available for under $3,000.
Before you rush out to your local supercenter expecting to ride off into the sunset, be aware — this bike is online only. You won’t find it parked between bicycles and barbecue grills. It's a digital-age deal, available exclusively through Walmart's website, shipped directly to your home or assembly location of choice.
The X-Pro motorcycle is not just some flashy toy. It comes equipped with a 223cc, 4-stroke, single-cylinder engine producing 11.5 horsepower and 17Nm of torque. It’s paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and has a top speed of 65+ mph, making it a respectable entry-level ride for beginners or budget-conscious enthusiasts.
With front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, electric start, 17-inch tires, and a
fuel tank that holds about 3.5 gallons, the bike is designed for daily usability. It also boasts a weight capacity of 374 lbs, which is generous for a motorcycle in this price range. A net weight of 313 lbs and a 5.9inch ground clearance keep it nimble and beginner-friendly.
The style will turn heads of a certain age too — especially those who remember the early Kawasaki Ninjas of the ‘90s. The
frame design and fairing echo that classic sportbike silhouette, bringing a wave of nostalgia for riders who used to tear up the streets in their younger days. Online reviews and YouTube ride tests suggest that while this isn’t a high-end performance machine, it performs surprisingly well for its price. Riders report smooth shifting, decent acceleration, and reliable braking — all key factors for a sol-
id learning bike.
But there are caveats. Walmart’s return policy on gas-powered vehicles is strict. Returns are generally not accepted unless the item arrives damaged, and even then, buyers must go through the Walmart messaging system for resolution. If a return is granted for personal reasons, a 15% restocking fee and shipping charges apply. On the bright side, buyers do get lifetime technical support and access to replacement parts during the warranty period.
The assembled product measures 82 inches long, 29.5 inches wide, and 46.5 inches tall, with a 56-inch wheelbase — dimensions that give it a full-sized feel without being overwhelming for new riders.
All in all, this isn’t just a novelty item. The X-Pro 250cc motorcycle sold on Walmart.com is a viable entry point for someone wanting to get into riding without dropping thousands on a name-brand model. For beginners, casual weekend cruisers, or those simply craving the feel of two wheels without the sticker shock, it’s a quirky — but practical — option that proves once again you really can buy almost anything from Walmart.
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July 21, 2025
Posting Date
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Posting July 21, 2025