Good morning, Medford.

Firefighters responded to three new fires along the 12000-block of Table Rock Road near Highway 234 on Monday evening and continue to patrol the area (drivers are urged to steer clear of the zone).

On Sunday, firefighters extinguished 11 roadside fires along Table Rock Road near Central Point—crews first responded just after 11 a.m. and later around 6:30 p.m.—with officials reporting the fires were likely caused by a vehicle and ruling out recent road work.

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival has named Javier Dubon as Interim Executive Director beginning Monday—he was appointed by the board after Gabriella Calicchio, who served for eight months, announced she will finish her leave on July 1.

Southern Oregon University President Rick Bailey said on Monday that state and federal funding decisions increased the deficit from $3.2M to $5M, and over 13% of full-time positions have already been cut—he said the university will cut another 5–7% of positions and share a plan with the board on July 31 with some decisions possibly implemented before that date.

The Oregon Department of Forestry told local tree owners to water trees with 10 to 15 gallons each week from May through September to prevent thinning and burning due to dry conditions — using your finger to check if the soil is moist helps ensure the tree is getting enough water.

Crater Lake National Park remains open to visitors today—despite upcoming construction on the Cleetwood Cove Trail next summer which will close boat access—and still offers over 90 miles of hiking trails and many outdoor activities.

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office reported that longtime deputy Kenneth 'KC' Merck died unexpectedly at home on June 17 after a sudden medical event (he was 49).

Merck served nearly 18 years and is survived by his wife, Crista, and five children while funeral arrangements are pending.

The Oregon House approved House Bill 3940, which taxes oral nicotine products to fund wildfire safety and update fire mitigation programs.

The bill now moves to the Senate—officials say it will boost community fire protection.

Fireworks stands have started selling legal fireworks in Jackson & Josephine counties as the 4th of July approaches, but ODF rules ban using them within 1/8 mile of protected property.

Natalie Weber from ODF said buyers should use fireworks only in large paved areas with little dry vegetation and have a hose & bucket ready to control any sparks.

Stockton Pearls vs Medford Rogues Game 2

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Medford Rogues Baseball Club — Free entry — Enjoy an exciting night of baseball with family-friendly activities and summer fun.

4th of July Fireworks: Boomfest 2025

7-8 p.m. — Jackson County Expo — Free entry — Enjoy Southern Oregon's largest fireworks display in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Britt Kids Concert: Red Yarn

10:30-11:30 a.m. — The Children's Museum of Southern Oregon — Free entry — Enjoy lively folk-rock music and playful puppetry in a fun concert for kids under 10.

Humboldt Crabs vs Medford Rogues Game 3

6:30-9:00 p.m. — Medford Rogues Baseball Club — Discounted adult beverages available — Enjoy Thirsty Thursday with game day excitement and giveaways.

PEL - Lincoln Potters vs Medford Rogues Game 1

6:30-9 p.m. — Medford Rogues Baseball Club — Check website for ticket prices — Exciting family fun with inflatable water attractions to beat the summer heat.

Jackson County Fair

7 PM — Jackson County Expo — Free entry — Experience The Outlaw Mariachi as they rock the fair for the first time.

FREE Kids Concert: Wendy and DB

10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — The Children's Museum of Southern Oregon — Free entry — Experience the Grammy-nominated duo blending blues and folklore in an engaging children’s music concert.

Keep Flying Concert

7-11 p.m. — Rockafairy — Cost TBA — Enjoy a night of dynamic punk, pop, and hardcore music from the New York band Keep Flying.

PEL: West Coast Kings vs Medford Rogues - Game 2

6:30-9:00 p.m. — Medford Rogues Baseball Club — Check for ticket prices — Enjoy the excitement of live baseball and the chance to win raffle baskets filled with exclusive team merchandise.

PEL- West Coast Kings vs Medford Rogues Game 3

6:30-9:00 p.m. — Medford Rogues Baseball Club — Discount food and beverage offers available — Celebrate with friends and enjoy a night of exciting baseball action.