Drought notice serves as climate change reminder

Recently, Gov. Kotek declared a drought emergency for Jackson County. We’ve had droughts before; they are familiar to us. But what’s not being said is that it’s climate change that is making droughts longer and stronger.

This is just one example of disasters that are not perceived as being as dangerous as they are; fires, deaths from high temperatures.

If government officials, elected representatives and reporters would mention climate change as a cause, the need for action would be more apparent.

And the need for action has never been greater.

Ken Deveney / Ashland

Medford shouldn’t charge to park at the library

I realize in life that nothing is free; however, is there a real compelling interest that exists for the city of Medford to charge folks to park at the Jackson County Library-Medford branch?

Most folks that go to the library, I would imagine, are there to study, to learn, to grow or in other words to better themselves.

Let’s do them a favor and encourage that healthy behavior and stop charging folks to park at the library parking lot.

Steven Ryan / Medford

Firefighters deserve thanks for Prescott response

Thank you to the numerous agencies who responded so quickly to the fire in Prescott Park.

As a homeowner who lives in the area, it was extremely gratifying to see the prompt response with the support necessary to extinguish the fire as soon as possible.

We appreciate all the firefighters!

Kathy Jones / Medford