OHA Encourages People to Check Immunity against Measles and to Get Vaccinated

With spring break here and the summer travel season approaching, the Oregon Health Authority encourages people to make sure they are protected against the measles. OHA officials said getting the MMR vaccine -- for measles, mumps and rubella -- is the most effective tool against the highly contagious virus. Twelve US states -- including California, Texas and New Mexico -- have reported cases of measles since January 1st. While Oregon has no cases so far in 2025, the state reported 31 confirmed cases last year -- the highest measles count in more than 30 years -- during an outbreak among unvaccinated people. Dr. Paul Cieslak, medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA's Public Health Division, said "measles is an amazingly contagious virus that unfortunately has re-emerged in our communities, primarily due to a declining percentage of people who are getting vaccinated." Dr. Dawn Nolt, professor of pediatric infectious diseases at OHSU School of Medicine, said the good news is that there is a highly safe and effective vaccine. She said it is the strongest line of defense to keep you, your children and your community safe. Dr. Cieslak said anyone planning travel to countries or states where measles is circulating should get the MMR vaccine before they go. He said it will allow you to start building immunity prior to your trip. ...Read more

Britt Festival Partners with State Rep Marsh to Spearhead Event Ticket Transparency Bill

In a significant step toward protecting consumers from deceptive ticketing practices, House Bill 3167-3 recently had its public hearing in the Oregon House Commerce & Consumer Protection Committee, bringing forward legislation designed to enhance transparency in the event ticket market. The bill -- championed by Ashland State Representative Pam Marsh -- aims to address longstanding issues related to hidden fees, speculative ticketing and misleading resale practices that have plagued Oregon's arts, entertainment and "live" event industries. Under House Bill 3167-3, ticket sellers will be required to disclose all fees upfront, preventing the frustration of last-minute price increases. The bill also prohibits speculative ticketing where resellers list tickets they do not actually own, and it ensures clearer labeling so buyers understand when they are purchasing from a secondary marketplace. For venues like Britt Music & Arts Festival that host thousands of fans each year, the passage of HB 3167-3 is a major step in ensuring fair ticketing practices. Britt President and CEO Abby McKee said deceptive resale tactics not only confuse consumers but also damage the relationship between venues, artists and audiences. ...Read more

Chamber of Commerce Announces Tickets Now Available for 2025 Wine Stroll in May

The Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce has announced that tickets are now available for the 2025 Wine Stroll in May. This delightful event takes place in downtown Grants Pass on Saturday, May 10th, from 2 to 6 p.m.. The Rogue Valley's premier walking wine tour is set for Mother's Day Weekend. Bringing wineries, eateries and vendors all together in downtown businesses, it creates a unique experience allowing participants to leisurely stroll from business to business, sampling great wines and delicious food while taking in local wares. This is a 21+ event. Tickets are $45 presale and $50 the day-of. Tickets can be purchased online at "grantspasschamber.org" or at the Chamber of Commerce located at 1995 NW Vine Street in Grants Pass. Beware of scammers. The Chamber does not sell tickets through third-party sites, only through their verified server "Chambermaster.com." ...Read more