Good morning, Medford.

PETA supporters demonstrated Monday evening at the Jackson County Expo near gate G to demand that the Jordan World Circus release Viola (a 56-year-old elephant with a long history in circus acts).

They said she suffered from pain and mistreatment and should be relocated to a sanctuary soon.

Medford’s annual Pear Blossom Parade will take place on Saturday, Apr.

11 at 11 a.m. Downtown, over 4,000 participants will march along Central Avenue turning onto West Main — Rogue Valley Habitat for Humanity serves as Grand Marshal as the parade celebrates ‘Pear-ing Homes with Humanity.’

Fuel costs are rising for Medford farmer Gary Hubler, who raised peach prices from $1.49 to $2 per pound as diesel nears $4.92 a gallon — a move driven by higher fuel and fertilizer costs affecting farms statewide.

The Oregon Hunters Association got $50,000 from the National Shooting Sports Foundation to fight a ballot measure that would change animal cruelty exemptions.

It will spend the funds on ads and a public education campaign as the petition needs 117,000 verified signatures by July.

Fire Station 15 construction is progressing with interior drywall nearly complete and kitchen cabinets installed; crews are preparing to pour concrete for sidewalks and the apparatus bay approach while still operating from a temporary bay.

Riding Beyond, a nonprofit based in Ashland, is accepting the last six participants for its free equine therapy sessions for women recovering from trauma starting Apr.

14 at Little Creek Ranch. Tuesday sessions will focus on breast cancer recovery and Wednesday sessions on other traumas such as long COVID.

50th Anniversary Pear Blossom Run

7 a.m. - 1 p.m. — Rogue Valley Family YMCA — Registration required — Celebrate spring with a timed 10 Mile and 5K run alongside the fun of the Mayor’s Cup Fun Run.

Oregon Cheese Festival

12-5 p.m. — Seven Feathers Event Center — Admission varies — Celebrate cheese and indulge in artisan delights from over 100 vendors.

Annual Barnstormer Spring Show

4:00 PM - 3:30 PM — Jackson County Expo — Free entry — Explore a vibrant market filled with vintage treasures, handmade goods, and local food trucks.

Chamber Music Concerts Featuring Canadian Brass

3-5 p.m. — Music Building — $49/59 — Experience the world-famous Canadian Brass in a lively concert filled with humor and virtuosity.