Good morning, Medford.

Saul Uriel Nunez-Vega, 24, pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm illegally in Jackson County amid an incident on November 14, 2023 involving an attempted kidnapping and shooting — his sentencing is scheduled for August 13 before a U.S. District Judge.

The Medford school district said 51 transfer students (who live outside the Washington Elementary boundary) must attend a neighborhood school or apply for a transfer next school year.

Some families have already moved while others face challenges as the plan aims to reduce grade-blended classrooms and let teachers focus on single-grade instruction.

The Southern Oregon Education Service District named Dr. Mark Angle-Hobson as its new superintendent after Scott Beveridge retired following ten years in the role, with the appointment announced on Friday.

Angle-Hobson brings over 30 years of experience in education and will focus his 90-day plan on creating a positive workplace culture—boosting employee morale and strengthening recruitment and retention.

Medford School District’s Board has three open seats as candidates run to restore unity and hire a new superintendent.

Angela Zbikowski leads Position One with over 65% of the vote, Sandra LaNier McHenry is ahead in Position Two with nearly 67%, and Erik Johnsen leads Position Three with almost 49%—current Board Chair Cynthia Wright trails.

Last week Jackson County Fire District 5 rescued an injured red-tailed hawk that collided with a semi-truck on the freeway after two bystanders brought it to Station 5 and firefighters worked with a wildlife rehab contact (via FaceTime) before transporting it to Wildlife Images for treatment.

A bill moving through the state legislature in Salem would let retailers turn people away after 8 p.m.—it will also allow alternative redemption sites in Portland to limit hand-counted returns as it moves to the House before the end-of-June deadline.

All 50 precincts reported in Jackson County’s May 20 special election with unofficial results showing 20,791 ballots cast for school board, fire district and water and sewer races + two levy measures passed, and results remain unofficial until certified.

Gov. Tina Kotek said she supports holding back $1 billion of next year’s kicker tax refund to help pay for wildfire fighting and prevention—this one-time measure would shift funds from urban to rural areas.

Lawmakers are still looking at other ideas to cover the rising costs of wildfires.

Public Run Day

11 a.m. to 3 p.m. — Medford Railroad Park — Free entry — Ride diesel trains and explore the fun at this family-friendly event.

Ashleigh Flynn & The Riveters Concert

8 PM - 12 AM — The Talent Club — Cost not specified — Experience the soulful tunes of Ashleigh Flynn & The Riveters amidst a lively atmosphere.

Seattle Studs vs Medford Rogues Baseball Game 2

6:30-9 p.m. — Medford Rogues Baseball Club — $10-$13 — Catch an exciting baseball game followed by a dazzling 16+ minute fireworks show.

Soroptimist Garden Tour

12:00 AM — Four Rogue Valley Gardens — Ticket prices may vary — Explore beautiful gardens on a self-guided tour through the Rogue Valley.

Cascade Collegiate League Showcase vs. Medford Rogues (Game 3)

6:30-9 p.m. — Medford Rogues Baseball Club — Adult beverages discounted — Enjoy Thirsty Thursday with a variety of drinks and a game of baseball.

Redmond Dudes vs. Medford Rogues Game 1

6:30-9:00 p.m. — Medford Rogues Baseball Club — Free entry — Experience the thrill of local baseball as the Redmond Dudes take on the Medford Rogues.

Late for the Train Festival

2-8 p.m. — RoxyAnn Winery — $15-$20 — Celebrate local food and music with bluegrass bands and craft vendors at this community festival.

Public Run Day

11 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Medford Railroad Park — Free entry — Experience the joy of riding diesel trains in a charming park setting.

Arrival - The Music of ABBA

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Craterian Theater at The Collier Center for the Performing Arts — Tickets on sale February 21st — Experience Canada’s tribute to ABBA alongside Dreams: The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute.

Connor Reese Music Performance at RoxyAnn Winery

4-6 p.m. — RoxyAnn Winery — Free entry — Enjoy a relaxing afternoon of live music and wine in a scenic winery setting.