Good morning, Medford.

Food bank leaders gathered Monday evening in a virtual briefing hosted by the Oregon Community Foundation to address severe food insecurity in the state, noting that 110 million pounds of food were distributed last year and visits increased by 31 percent as many families and seniors sought help for the first time.

Medford nonprofit Spartan Boxing is at risk of closing its doors after receiving only two grants instead of the usual ten due to recent economic hardships — board members say the gym struggles to support youth programs without steady funding.

The organization sold its adjacent strength and conditioning equipment and will hold a special sparring showcase fundraiser this weekend — asking neighbors for donations to keep its community programs alive.

Rogue Valley Transportation District is launching its first 'Stuff the Bus' food drive in about 20 years to collect non-perishable items like cereal, flour, and legumes for ACCESS to support local families.

Volunteers will collect donations at local grocery stores, including Sherm’s Food 4 Less in Medford today (3:00–6:30 p.m.) and at other Medford and Ashland locations later in the week (times to be announced).

Federal lawmakers are advancing a draft policy in a government spending bill that seeks to redefine legal hemp by excluding hemp-derived cannabinoid products—this change could force Southern Oregon hemp farmers who built their businesses under the 2018 Farm Bill to switch to industrial production or risk closing their operations.

Tourism at Crater Lake National Park is down because the government shutdown has limited services—employees report that many visitors assume the park is closed and the entrance fee is not collected.

Tex, a 106-pound one-year-old Labrador retriever from the Jackson County Animal Shelter, was highlighted for his playful nature and need for an active family.

He is neutered, fully vaccinated and best suited for a home without cats, chickens or other small animals—shelter staff recommend an experienced owner for his adoption.

Gratitude Dinner

5-9 p.m. — I.O.O.F. Lodge 129 — $10 — Enjoy an evening of food, family, and gratitude at this community dinner event.

Medicare 101: Essential Health Plan Insights for Seniors

7-9 p.m. — Rogue Valley Metaphysical Library — Free entry — Learn from a licensed insurance agent about navigating the Medicare program and making informed choices.

2025 Clayfolk Pottery Show and Sale

11 a.m.-7 p.m. — Medford Armory — Admission varies — Explore unique pottery by over 70 local artists, plus hands-on clay activities for kids.

Holiday Craft Bazaar

9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. — Central Point Grange No 698 — Free entry — Explore unique holiday crafts and support local artisans.

Southern Oregon Runners Turkey Trot

8:15-11:00 AM — Cummins Battery Systems North America LLC — Registration required — Participate in a Thanksgiving run supporting local food drives and student runners programs.

Merry Market & Christmas Faire

10 AM-4 PM — Rogue X - Medford Parks & Recreation — Family-friendly festivities — Shop local artisan crafts and enjoy holiday activities with Santa.

Andre Nickatina Live at Grape Street Bar & Grill

8-11 p.m. — Grape Street Bar & Grill — Tickets from $45 — Experience a night of hip hop as Andre Nickatina takes the stage in Medford.

Home For The Holidays

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Craterian Theater at The Collier Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the holiday season with live performances at this festive event.

Walking in a Winter Wonderland Holiday Lights

5-9 p.m. — Hanley Farm — $5 per car — Experience a magical stroll through over 20,000 dazzling holiday lights with drinks and snacks.