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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2026

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Simon Hare Returns to Josephine County Ballot as Old Controversies and New Questions Converge By John Oliver Josephine County politics has a long memory, and one of the names tied to some of its most turbulent chapters has now returned to the ballot. Former county commissioner Simon Hare is once again seeking public office, filing as a candidate for Josephine County Commissioner Position No. 2. His return to the political stage is already stirring debate across the county, not simply because of his prior time in office, but because of the network of unresolved controversies and unanswered questions that continue to follow him. Hare previously served as a Josephine County commissioner and later remained connected to county affairs through various contractual roles. During different periods he has also described himself as a whistleblower regarding county operations, placing himself both inside and outside the political establishment depending on the issue at hand. That history alone would place him in the public spotlight as he campaigns for a return to county government. Yet the circumstances surrounding this new campaign reach beyond his earlier time in office. Repeated attempts were made by the Grants Pass Tribune to contact Hare directly regarding his candidacy and the matters now circulating in public discussion. Several emails requesting comment were sent in re-

cent weeks. As of publication, those inquiries have gone unanswered. Among the issues drawing attention is an ongoing Department of Justice investigation involving individuals connected to former Josephine County Commissioner Chris Barnett. According to information referenced in reporting inquiries, Hare’s partner, Kristina Stickler, has been identified in connection with aspects of the federal investigation related to allegations of coercion. Federal authorities have not yet released full details of the inquiry, and at this stage the scope of potential findings remains under investigation. However, because Hare is now seeking elected office, questions surrounding the situation have inevitably reached the campaign trail.

Hare was asked directly whether he had any knowledge of the circumstances surrounding the investigation and whether he wished to address his partner’s alleged involvement. He was also asked whether he had any involvement in the matter or prior awareness of the investigation. Those questions remain unanswered. Beyond the federal investigation, Hare’s campaign is unfolding alongside questions tied to Josephine County’s troubled broadband grant effort, an initiative that has continued to raise concerns long after the initial funding discussions took place. The broadband project involved several figures who have remained prominent in county political disputes, including former commissioner

John West and Michael Sellers, who has also been referenced in connection with federal investigative interest. The project itself became widely criticized after confusion surrounding its structure, oversight, and public accountability left lingering doubts about how the proposal was developed and who ultimately stood to benefit. Critics argue that Hare’s proximity to individuals involved in that process deserves closer scrutiny as voters evaluate his return to county politics. Some supporters, on the other hand, maintain that Hare’s experience in county governance provides him with insight that newer candidates may lack. Another layer of controversy involves Hare’s business relationship with fellow commissioner candidate Chad Hansen. Both men are currently running for the same Position No. 2 seat while also maintaining business ties through Patriot Solutions LLC. That relationship came under public scrutiny last year when Hansen appeared before the Board of County Commissioners seeking grant funding tied to a project. During the application process, the business partnership with Hare was not disclosed. After the omission became known, the grant connected to the application was ultimately rescinded. The situation has left some voters asking

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see SIMON., page 4

New SNAP Purchase Restrictions Spread Across the Country, but Oregon Remains Unaffected By Ellen Ward A growing number of states across the country are placing new limits on what can be purchased with federal food assistance benefits, but Oregon residents who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program will see no changes to their benefits at this time. The policy shift centers on SNAP, the nation’s largest food assistance program, which provides monthly grocery benefits to more than forty million Americans. The program has long allowed recipients to purchase most grocery items while prohibiting alcohol, tobacco products, vitamins, and hot prepared foods. Foods such as soda, candy, snack foods, and desserts have historically remained eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. That framework is now beginning to change in several states. More than twenty states have begun implementing or preparing to implement restrictions targeting products considered to have little nutritional value. These changes are being made through waiver requests submitted to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees the

federal food assistance program. Under the waiver process, states may request permission to modify the list of items that can be purchased using SNAP benefits within their borders. Once approved by federal officials, those states can restrict certain products while continuing to operate under the broader structure of the national program. The latest states approved to move for-

ward with restrictions include Kansas, Nevada, Ohio, and Wyoming. Their approvals join a growing list of states pursuing similar policies, including Texas, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Utah, and West Virginia. Each state’s policy differs slightly, but most focus on limiting purchases of sugary beverages, energy drinks, and candy. In several of these states, the restric-

tions are scheduled to take effect beginning in 2026, with some locations implementing phased rollouts that could extend into later years. In those areas, SNAP cards will no longer be accepted for certain high sugar products that have traditionally been allowed under the program. Supporters of the policy changes argue that federal food assistance should encourage healthier grocery purchases. Advocates point to ongoing national concerns over diet related health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. They believe limiting the use of SNAP benefits for sugary beverages and highly processed snacks could steer purchases toward foods such as fruits, vege

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see SNAP., page 3

GRANTS PASS TRIBUNE

Wednesday, March 11, 2026

GRANTS PASS TRIBUNE

NEWS DESK

Operation Epic Fury Expands as U.S.–Iran Conflict Reshapes the Middle East By John Oliver Nearly two weeks after the United States launched Operation Epic Fury, the military campaign against Iran has evolved into one of the most consequential geopolitical confrontations in the Middle East in recent years. The operation, which began in late February, involves sustained U.S. and Israeli air and missile strikes aimed at weakening Iran’s military infrastructure, missile capabilities, and strategic facilities linked to its defense and nuclear programs. American defense officials describe the campaign as a coordinated series of precision operations conducted from regional air bases, naval carrier groups in the Persian Gulf and Arabian Sea, and long-range strike aircraft. Hundreds of targets across Iran have been hit since the first wave of attacks began. Military planners have focused primarily on missile launch sites, weapons depots, air defense systems, command centers, and military production facilities believed to support Iran’s ballistic missile network. Washington officials report that thousands of individual targets have been identified during the operation’s opening phases. The strikes have included the use of cruise missiles launched from naval vessels, stealth aircraft flying from regional bases, and remotely piloted drones used for surveillance and precision targeting. Pentagon briefings indicate that additional aircraft and strike assets have continued to arrive in the region as the campaign progresses. The military operation was initiated amid rising tensions between Iran and Western allies, with U.S. leaders asserting that the strikes were intended to degrade Iran’s capacity to threaten regional security and international shipping routes. The campaign has drawn immediate international attention because of its scale and the strategic importance of the region involved. Iran has responded with a series of retaliatory actions across the Middle East. Missile and drone attacks have been reported targeting military installations used by U.S. forces in

several Gulf states as well as locations connected to Israeli security infrastructure. Some of the retaliatory strikes have also focused on energy facilities and transportation networks in an effort to disrupt strategic resources tied to Western allies. The conflict has also extended into neighboring Iraq, where the presence of U.S. troops and Iranian-aligned militia groups has raised concerns that the country could become an additional flashpoint. Intelligence reports indicate that Iranian-supported militias operating in Iraq have issued threats against American forces stationed at military installations there. Several missile launches and attempted attacks in northern Iraq have heightened fears that the conflict could widen into a broader regional confrontation. Military analysts observing the unfolding situation note that Iraq’s geography places it directly between Iran and multiple U.S. operational bases in the region. As a result, any expansion of militia activity or cross-border attacks could increase the likelihood of additional military engagements within Iraqi territory. The human toll of the conflict is already becoming evident. U.S. military officials have

confirmed that several American service members have been killed in attacks connected to Iranian retaliation since the campaign began. Reports from inside Iran also describe damage to infrastructure and civilian areas as a result of airstrikes conducted during the operation. Humanitarian organizations are monitoring the situation closely, warning that prolonged military activity could place increasing pressure on civilian populations, medical systems, and supply chains across the region. Aid groups have also raised concerns about displacement of residents in areas where military installations and strategic targets are located near population centers. The conflict has also created significant ripple effects across global energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf to international shipping routes, carries a large portion of the world’s oil supply. Iranian officials have previously warned that the strait could become a target if military pressure continues. Since the beginning of Operation Epic Fury, maritime security agencies have reported increased tension in the shipping corridor.

Some commercial shipping companies have altered routes or delayed cargo shipments due to concerns about possible missile or drone activity near tanker lanes. The uncertainty surrounding the region has contributed to volatility in global oil markets as traders assess the potential risks to energy supply. Financial analysts have also begun estimating the cost of the ongoing military operation. Modern air campaigns involving long-range aircraft, naval strike groups, and precision weapons systems require substantial logistical support and continuous deployment of advanced technology. Early projections suggest the operation is costing millions of dollars per day as aircraft sorties, missile launches, and operational logistics continue. International diplomatic reactions to the conflict have varied widely. Some allied governments have expressed support for the campaign’s objectives related to regional security, while others have urged restraint and called for diplomatic negotiations to prevent further escalation. Global leaders remain concerned that additional retaliatory attacks could widen the conflict beyond its current scope. Military strategists continue to evaluate several possible paths forward. One possibility is that sustained strikes could significantly degrade Iran’s military infrastructure and reduce its capacity for regional military operations. Another scenario involves the potential for Iranian-aligned forces in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, or Yemen to increase attacks against U.S. and allied interests, further expanding the conflict. For now, Operation Epic Fury remains active, with additional strike missions and defensive deployments continuing across the region. As the campaign enters its second week, the situation remains fluid, with military activity, diplomatic responses, and economic consequences unfolding simultaneously across multiple continents. The outcome of the operation may ultimately shape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East and influence international security dynamics for years to come.

SNAP Purchase Restrictions Spread, Oregon Unaffected From page 1 tables, dairy products, and proteins. Some policymakers also reference research indicating that a portion of SNAP spending goes toward sweetened drinks and snack foods. By restricting those items, they argue the program could better align with broader public health objectives while still providing families with support for essential groceries. Critics of the restrictions raise questions about how the new rules will function in practice. Opponents argue that defining which foods are considered unhealthy can

be complicated and may vary widely depending on the criteria used. Grocery retailers may also face technical challenges adjusting checkout systems to block certain purchases when SNAP benefits are used. Food access advocates have also expressed concern that the restrictions could create additional stigma for households receiving food assistance. Some studies have shown that SNAP recipients purchase snack foods and beverages at rates similar to the general population, leading critics to question whether targeted restrictions are

necessary. For Oregon residents, however, none of these changes currently apply. The state has not submitted or received approval for a waiver that would restrict the purchase of sugary drinks, candy, or other snack items under SNAP. As a result, the program in Oregon continues to operate under the same purchasing rules that have existed for decades. The Oregon Department of Human Services administers SNAP benefits within the state, serving thousands of households in-

cluding many in Southern Oregon communities. Residents who rely on the program can continue using their benefits for the same range of grocery items that have traditionally been permitted. Although the restrictions are expanding across parts of the country, Oregon remains outside the current wave of policy changes. For now, SNAP recipients in the state will not see any new purchasing limitations, even as the debate over nutrition standards and food assistance continues to develop nationwide.

GRANTS PASS TRIBUNE

Wednesday, March 11, 2026

POLITICS

Candidate Filing Deadline Closes Across Oregon as Primary Election Field Takes Shape By John Oliver The window for entering Oregon’s May 2026 primary election closed Tuesday evening, bringing the state’s candidate filing period to an official end and locking in the individuals who intend to compete for public office this spring. By 5:00 p.m. on March 10, anyone seeking to run for office in the upcoming primary was required to submit the necessary paperwork to the appropriate election office. That process included filing the official candidate form along with either the required filing fee or a qualifying number of petition signatures. Those submissions must now be reviewed and confirmed by election officials to ensure each candidate meets the legal requirements to appear on the ballot. With the deadline now behind them, anyone who failed to file by the cutoff is no longer eligible to enter the race for the May primary. The filing period represents the first major checkpoint in Oregon’s election calendar, determining who will appear on the ballot as the state moves toward its spring election. The list of candidates is largely settled, although one brief adjustment window remains. Individuals who successfully filed for office still have until March 13 to withdraw their candidacy if they choose

to step aside. Once that date passes, the ballot lineup will be finalized and the process of preparing ballots for Oregon’s vote-by-mail system will move forward. Across the state, the close of the filing period marks the moment when election season begins to shift from paperwork to campaigning. Candidates who met the deadline now begin the work of introducing themselves to voters, outlining priorities, and building the local support needed to move through the primary and into the general election later this year. The May primary plays a central role in Oregon’s election cycle. It determines which candidates advance to the Novem-

ber ballot in races that include positions at the federal, state, and local level. Many contests begin with several candidates competing within the same party, meaning the spring election often decides which names ultimately remain in the race for the fall. While filing activity took place across Oregon, attention in Southern Oregon is expected to center heavily on Josephine County during the coming months. Political tension, leadership disputes, and a series of public controversies over the past several years have placed the county under a brighter spotlight than usual during election cycles.

Because of that history, several of the races emerging in Josephine County are expected to draw attention far beyond the county’s borders. Campaign activity in the area will likely be followed closely by political organizations, media outlets, and voters watching how local leadership choices could shape the direction of the county in the years ahead. For election officials, the closing of the filing period signals the start of the administrative work that must take place before ballots are issued. Candidate information must be verified, ballots formatted and finalized, and mailing timelines prepared so ballots can reach voters in time for the May primary. For candidates, the focus now shifts to campaign strategy and public outreach. Over the next several weeks, voters across Oregon will begin seeing more campaign announcements, public appearances, and political messaging as those seeking office attempt to build momentum before ballots arrive in mailboxes. With the filing deadline now complete and the withdrawal window nearing its end, Oregon’s 2026 election season has officially moved from preparation to competition. The field is set, and the campaigns that will shape the May primary are now underway.

Simon Hare Returns to Josephine County Ballot From page 1 why two business partners are now competing for the same elected office and whether the arrangement reflects coincidence or strategic political positioning. While the answer remains open to interpretation, the optics of the situation have become a frequent topic of discussion within the community. Further questions surfaced recently after Hare discussed the idea of investing county funds in precious metals during a radio appearance. Oregon law and county financial regulations impose strict limitations on how public funds can be invested, and the suggestion has prompted debate over whether such an approach would be legally permissible or financially responsible for a county government. Josephine County residents are no strangers to political controversy. The past several years have included lawsuits, allegations of misconduct, disputes between commissioners, and in-

vestigations involving local officials. As a result, voters across the county have become increasingly attentive to the backgrounds and relationships of candidates seeking office. In the view of some observers, the number of controversies connected to the same circle of political figures is too substantial to dismiss as coincidence. Others argue that Josephine County’s political environment has become so contentious that nearly every public figure eventually becomes entangled in disputes. What remains clear is that Simon Hare’s return to the ballot guarantees that those unresolved questions will again be part of the county’s political conversation. Whether voters view his candidacy as a return of experience or a continuation of controversy will likely define one of the most closely watched commissioner races Josephine County has seen in years.

Wednesday, March 11, 2026

GRANTS PASS TRIBUNE

FOOD Taprock Grill Serves Smoked Short Rib Grilled Cheese During Grants Pass “Say Cheese” Month By Necia Hewlett & Nik Martin Local Food Critic Throughout the month, restaurants are participating in the town’s annual grilled cheese event, which is less of a competition and more of a community fundraiser built around one of the most comforting foods imaginable. Local restaurants create their own grilled cheese specials for the month, and diners are encouraged to visit participating locations and try the different sandwiches. The event brings people out to explore local restaurants while supporting a meaningful cause. For every grilled cheese sandwich sold during the event, $2 is donated to local food banks, helping provide meals for families throughout the region. What begins as a simple meal quickly becomes something larger, neighbors supporting neighbors while enjoying creative takes on a classic comfort food. One of the featured stops along the Say Cheese trail this year is Cartwright’s Taprock Grill, located at 971 SE 6th Street in Grants Pass. Taprock is a beautiful restaurant overlooking the Rogue River and features two outdoor decks along with two indoor seating levels. This year also marks the first time Taprock has participated under the ownership of Cartwright’s Market, which purchased the restaurant about a year ago. Taprock may have participated in previous years under former ownership, but this is Cartwright’s first opportunity to join the fundraiser since acquiring the restaurant. With the new ownership also came new culinary leadership. Cartwright’s brought in Executive Corporate Chef Bon Hewlett, who joined the team around the same time as the transition. Wanting to ensure Taprock was part of the community effort, Chef Hewlett developed the restaurant’s entry for this year’s event. The featured sandwich offers a bold twist on the classic grilled cheese. It includes smoked short rib layered with a rich bacon-onion jam, creating a deep savory flavor. The cheese combination, muenster, creamy Havarti, and provolone, melts together into a smooth and indulgent layer. Fresh arugula adds a light peppery contrast, and everything is served on locally made sourdough bread toasted to a crisp golden finish.

Chef Hewlett explains the approach simply: “The secret to our short rib is simple: start with the best from Cartwright’s, add a little Rogue River smoke, and don’t stop until the cheese is perfectly molten.” Stop number nine of the Say Cheese journey brought this sandwich to the table at Taprock. During the visit, the service was extremely friendly and upbeat, adding to the overall dining experience. Taprock’s smoked short rib grilled cheese features smoked short ribs, Havarti and muenster cheeses, fresh arugula, sweet bacon jam, and sourdough bread. The flavors pop immediately, combining savory and sweet elements that make the sandwich stand out among the many creative entries featured around town this month. Supporting the Josephine County Food Bank while getting the opportunity to try creative grilled cheese sandwiches makes the event a win-win for the community. As residents and visitors move around Grants Pass sampling the month’s grilled cheese creations, the impact extends far beyond the plate. Each sandwich sold helps support local food banks while highlighting the restaurants that make the community vibrant. In the end, the event is not really about competition at all. It is about community, restaurants coming together, residents showing their support, and a simple grilled cheese sandwich helping make a difference for families in need.

GRANTS PASS TRIBUNE

Wednesday, March 11, 2026

NEWS DESK

Shellfish Safety Alert Reaches Oregon as Federal Officials Warn of Possible Norovirus Contamination By Ellen Ward Federal food safety officials have issued a nationwide advisory warning restaurants, seafood retailers, and consumers about the potential contamination of certain shellfish harvested in Washington state, raising concerns for businesses and residents in Oregon and several other states that may have received the product. The alert, issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in coordination with public health authorities, centers on Manila clams harvested from Drayton Harbor in northern Washington between February 13 and March 3. The shellfish were gathered and distributed by the Lummi Indian Business Council and subsequently shipped through seafood supply networks to restaurants and food retailers across multiple states. Distribution records indicate that the clams reached businesses in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, New York, Oregon, and Washington. Health officials are warning food establishments not to serve or sell the affected shellfish and advising consumers to avoid eating them if they may have been purchased or served during that timeframe. Restaurants and seafood distributors have also been advised to properly dispose of any remaining inventory from the harvest period and thoroughly sanitize surfaces or equipment that may have come into contact with the clams to prevent the potential spread of illness.

The concern centers on norovirus, one of the most common causes of foodborne illness in the United States. The virus spreads easily through contaminated food, water, surfaces, or person-to-person contact. Often described as the stomach flu, norovirus is unrelated to influenza but can cause sudden gastrointestinal illness characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, fever, headaches, and body aches. Symptoms typically appear within twelve to forty-eight hours after exposure and most healthy individuals recover within several days. However, the illness can pose more serious risks to young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems due to dehy-

dration and other complications. Shellfish such as clams and oysters are particularly vulnerable to contamination because they are filter feeders that process large volumes of water to obtain nutrients. If the surrounding marine environment becomes contaminated with viruses or bacteria, the shellfish can accumulate those pathogens in their tissues. Because the seafood may appear normal in smell, taste, and appearance, contamination is often impossible to detect without laboratory testing. The federal warning was triggered after illnesses associated with raw shellfish consumption were reported to the Washington State Department of Health. State officials alerted

federal regulators, prompting the FDA to issue a broader advisory while the situation continues to be investigated. Public health authorities are now tracing distribution channels to determine the full scope of where the shellfish may have been delivered. Consumers who may have eaten raw or lightly cooked shellfish in recent weeks are being encouraged to remain aware of possible symptoms of norovirus infection. While most cases resolve without medical treatment, individuals experiencing severe dehydration, prolonged vomiting, or symptoms that worsen over time are advised to seek medical attention. Restaurants and seafood retailers across Oregon are expected to review their supply records and remove any potentially affected shellfish harvested from Drayton Harbor during the specified dates. Food safety authorities emphasize that prompt removal of the product from circulation is the most effective way to reduce the risk of additional illness while the investigation continues. As the situation develops, federal and state health officials continue to monitor reports of illness and track seafood distribution channels to ensure that contaminated shellfish are no longer being served or sold. The advisory serves as a reminder of the importance of strict harvesting oversight and rapid communication across the national food safety system when potential contamination is identified.

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Wednesday, March 11, 2026

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Wednesday, March 11, 2026

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Telehealth Weight-Loss Drug Plan Collapses Amid Federal Scrutiny and Industry Pressure By Ellen Ward A rapidly unfolding dispute between a telehealth provider, federal regulators, and one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical manufacturers has reshaped the conversation around access to popular weight-loss medications in the United States. Within a matter of days, telehealth company Hims & Hers Health withdrew plans to offer a compounded version of the blockbuster obesity drug Wegovy after warnings from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and legal pressure from the drug’s manufacturer, Novo Nordisk. The sudden reversal highlights the growing tensions surrounding the booming market for GLP-1 medications, a class of drugs originally developed to treat diabetes that has become widely used for weight management. The active ingredient in Wegovy, semaglutide, has become one of the most sought-after pharmaceutical compounds in the world as demand for medically supervised weight-loss treatments continues to surge. Hims & Hers, a San Francisco-based telehealth platform known for offering prescription services through online consultations, had announced plans to introduce a significantly cheaper alternative to Wegovy. The company intended to distribute a compounded pill containing semaglutide, the same active compound used in the brand-name medication. The price point promoted by the company was dramatically lower than the cost of the branded drug, which can run hundreds or even thousands of dollars per month depending on insurance coverage. Compounded medications are prepared by specialized pharmacies that mix ingredients to create customized treatments for individu-

al patients. Federal law permits compounded drugs in certain circumstances, particularly when a medication is unavailable or when a patient requires a different formulation than what is commercially sold. However, compounded drugs do not undergo the same extensive testing and regulatory approval process required for drugs cleared by the FDA. The telehealth company’s announcement quickly drew attention from regulators who have been monitoring the expanding market for copycat versions of popular GLP-1 medications. The FDA warned that it could restrict access to the pharmaceutical ingredients used to produce compounded semaglutide products if the agency determines that companies are mass-marketing versions that resemble approved drugs. Federal officials have expressed growing concern that some compounded weight-loss medications promoted online may

not meet the safety and quality standards required for approved treatments. At the same time, Novo Nordisk moved aggressively to protect its intellectual property and market share. The Danish pharmaceutical company manufactures both Wegovy and the diabetes drug Ozempic, which also contains semaglutide and has become widely prescribed for weight loss. Novo Nordisk has invested years of clinical research and billions of dollars developing these medications, which are now among the most profitable drugs in the global pharmaceutical industry. Following Hims & Hers’ announcement, Novo Nordisk initiated legal action alleging patent violations and improper marketing of a product designed to imitate its branded medications. The lawsuit was part of a broader effort by the company to limit the spread of compounded GLP-1 drugs that it argues could

confuse patients and undermine regulatory safeguards. Facing mounting regulatory and legal pressure, Hims & Hers abandoned its plan to distribute the compounded pill just days after publicly introducing it. The rapid change illustrated how quickly federal oversight and intellectual-property disputes can influence the evolving telehealth marketplace. Soon afterward, the dispute took an unexpected turn when the companies reached a business arrangement that effectively ended their conflict. Under the new agreement, Hims & Hers will offer Novo Nordisk’s FDA-approved medications through its telehealth platform rather than marketing compounded alternatives. In return, Novo Nordisk agreed to withdraw its legal challenge, allowing the telehealth company to integrate the official drugs into its online prescription services. The episode reflects the enormous economic stakes tied to the expanding demand for GLP-1 medications. The drugs have transformed treatment options for obesity and metabolic disorders while also igniting a global competition among pharmaceutical firms, telehealth companies, and compounding pharmacies seeking to participate in the lucrative market. At the same time, regulators are increasingly focused on ensuring that rapidly growing online healthcare services operate within existing pharmaceutical safety standards. As telemedicine platforms continue to expand their reach across the United States, the clash between innovation, affordability, and regulatory oversight is likely to shape how Americans access weight-loss medications in the years ahead.

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Wednesday, March 11, 2026

GRANTS PASS TRIBUNE

TRAVEL GRANTS PASS WEATHER 5 DAY OUTLOOK SOURCE: WEATHER.COM

WEDNESDAY Partly cloudy 61/41

THURSDAY

Partly cloudy 65/43

Rockslide Forces Closure of Highway 99E Tunnel Near Oregon City, Impacting Travel Through Northern Oregon By Bryce Robison Traffic through Oregon City was disrupted Tuesday morning after a rockslide forced the closure of the Highway 99E tunnel, creating delays along one of the primary routes connecting communities south of Portland. Transportation officials shut down the corridor after debris fell near the entrance to the tunnel, raising concerns about additional rockfall and the stability of the surrounding hillside. The incident occurred early Tuesday when rocks and loose material were discovered blocking portions of the roadway near the tunnel entrance. Crews from the Oregon Department of Transportation quickly responded to the scene and closed the highway in both directions as a precaution. The debris itself could be cleared relatively quickly, but the greater concern involved the rock face above the highway, where unstable formations could continue to break loose. Highway 99E runs along a narrow stretch of terrain carved through steep hillsides near the Willamette River in Oregon City. Portions of the roadway pass directly beneath exposed rock and through short tunnels constructed to accommodate the terrain. These conditions make the route particularly vulnerable to rockfall events, especially during seasons when moisture and temperature changes weaken natural rock formations. Transportation engineers spent Tuesday evaluating the hillside above the tunnel to determine whether additional rocks were at risk of falling. In situations like this, crews often perform scaling work to remove loose debris from the rock face before allowing traffic to resume. Additional safety measures may also be required depending on the results of the inspection.

The closure temporarily halted traffic along a key commuter and freight corridor used by thousands of drivers traveling between Clackamas County and the Portland metropolitan area. Drivers were diverted onto nearby surface streets and alternate highways, which quickly became congested during peak morning travel hours. By Wednesday morning, the situation remained under close monitoring as crews continued to assess the stability of the hillside. Transportation officials must confirm that the rock face is secure before reopening the route to normal traffic. While debris removal is often straightforward, ensuring the long-term safety of the roadway can take additional time depending on geological conditions. For travelers coming from southern Oregon, the closure is unlikely to affect most long-distance routes heading toward Portland or the northern Willamette Valley. Interstate 5 remains the primary north south corridor through the state and was not impacted by the slide. Drivers traveling from communities such as Grants Pass, Medford, and Roseburg can still reach the Portland area using Interstate 5 without interruption. However, those planning to enter Oregon City directly or travel along Highway 99E through Clackamas County may encounter detours or minor delays if the tunnel remains closed while inspections continue. Local traffic in the Oregon City area experienced the greatest disruption Tuesday as drivers navigated alternative routes around the blocked section of highway. Rockslides are a recurring challenge along several Oregon highways that run through steep or mountainous terrain. Natural erosion, rainfall, and seasonal weather patterns can loosen rock forma-

tions over time, occasionally sending debris onto roadways without warning. Transportation officials continue to monitor the site and will reopen the Highway 99E tunnel once engineers determine that the surrounding rock face is stable and safe for travel. Until then, drivers heading into Oregon City are encouraged to plan alternate routes and allow extra time for travel.

FRIDAY Partly cloudy 66/49

SATURDAY Partly cloudy, chance of showers 62/42

SUNDAY Partly cloudy 72/46

GRANTS PASS TRIBUNE

Wednesday, March 11, 2026

Relentless Heroes’ mission is to assist local Veterans when other programs or benefits cannot meet their needs in a timely manner. We work closely with the local Vet Center and provide assistance to individual Veterans during their time of need. Relentless Heroes has been able to make this possible through generous donations and community support. We would love it if you could join us in our mission to expand and continue to help our local veterans.

Click here to donate www.relentlessheroes.org “Every Veteran, Every Day”

Wednesday, March 11, 2026

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TAKE A BREAK

March 9, 2

March 9, 2026 Posti