Secretary of State Says May Primary Election is Underway with May 21st Ballot Deadline
Oregon Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade says the May primary election is underway. Oregon's 36 county clerks began mailing out ballots on May 1st. If you have not already returned your ballot, please remember to do so before 8 p.m. on May 21st. You can mail your ballot back to your county clerk. Postage is already included. Don't forget to sign your envelope and make sure your ballot is postmarked by Election Day. You can also return your ballot to any county clerk's office. They'll make sure it gets sent to the county in which you're registered to vote. Otherwise, drop your completed ballot at any official, secure dropbox. Want to know if your ballot has been received? You can always check the status of your ballot through the Secretary of State's "My Vote" website. Lost your ballot? Made a mistake? Your county elections office can help you get a new one. Didn't see a candidate on your ballot when you were expecting to? In Oregon, the major political parties have chosen to hold closed primaries. That means you must be a registered member of that party to vote in their primary. Any other questions? You can learn more at "OregonVotes.gov" or at your county elections office. ...Read more

Seasonal Fire Ban and Parking Restrictions Renewed in 2024 on Illinois River Corridor
The US Forest Service has announced the beginning of the seasonal fire ban and parking prohibitions on the recreation section of the Illinois River Corridor. The seasonal ban includes the building, maintaining, attending or using of fire -- except in designated Forest Service fire rings. It also prohibits parking or leaving a vehicle inside the white lines along Illinois River Road. This order is effective from May 13th through October 31st, unless rescinded sooner. The Wild and Scenic Section of the Illinois River is renowned for its outstanding values including blue-green, crystal-clear waters, its spectacular and varied landscapes, and its botanical biodiversity. Along the approximate four-mile recreation section of the Illinois, there have been ongoing and significant issues with illegal campfires and road safety over the years. Forest officials said these violations were creating safety and access issues for recreationists, emergency personnel and whitewater enthusiasts with permits. Law enforcement patrols help keep recreationists safe during heavy use periods. ...Read more

Grants Pass PD Asks Citizens to Observe Moment of Silence for Fallen Officers
The Grants Pass Police Department is asking residents to observe a moment of silence this week to honor the police officers and their families who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their communities and nation. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15th as "National Peace Officers Memorial Day" and the calendar week in which May 15th falls as "National Police Week." Established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962, National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. National Police Week is a collaborative effort of many organizations dedicated to honoring America's law enforcement community. On Tuesday morning, the Grants Pass Police Department, Josephine County Sheriff's Office and Oregon State Police paid tribute to six fallen local officers in a special ceremony on the steps of the Josephine County Courthouse. ...Read more