Good morning, Medford.

Medford’s Pear Blossom Festival is prompting street closures today for its street fair, parade, and run, affecting key roads and the city parking lot on Central and 5th; these closures will extend until Saturday evening.

ACCESS received a $10,000 grant from Friends of the Animals to help distribute pet food at Jackson County food pantries, and discounted food from Fred Meyer (a local partner) has helped families avoid choosing between feeding themselves and their pets.

Local experts advise residents to start gardens to counter rising fertilizer prices caused by global supply issues from the Strait of Hormuz closure.

The Oregon Farm Bureau said some farms secured fixed prices — while others face future cost increases and Jackson County Master Gardeners offer guidance.

Medford native actor Jon Lindstrom (four-time Emmy-nominated) will release his second novel, Hollywood Payback, on Tuesday and begin his nationwide book tour on Thursday at Bloomsbury Books in Ashland.

The crime thriller follows a struggling Hollywood actor who falls into a life of crime.

Southern Oregon University may adjust student programs as it finalizes its updated budget plan, to be submitted at the end of April (potential changes could appear by summer) while the university promises tailored support for affected students.

In mid-February, South Valley Academy students launched their Tiny Treasure Trade project to showcase creative school spirit (Mason Blair, Corey Greeley, Arianna Harris, Jacob Ross, and Alaska Radant) as featured in a local press photo.

ODFW intercepted invasive golden mussels on a boat at the Ashland inspection station Saturday & decontaminated it to protect local water bodies.

Boaters are reminded to follow required inspections to stop invasive species from entering Oregon’s waters.

As warmer weather arrives, rattlesnakes are becoming active on local trails, so a BLM ranger advises hikers to wear sturdy boots and heavy pants — a tip that helps protect both people and pets.

He also urged anyone bitten to seek immediate care.

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.

Richard Marx 'After Hours' Tour

7-11 p.m. — Holly Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the timeless voice and unforgettable catalogue of award-winning artist Richard Marx.