Law Enforcement Searching for Wanted Man Following Crime Spree

Law enforcement agencies throughout Southern Oregon are searching for a man wanted in connection with multiple stolen vehicles and a high-speed pursuit that occurred Monday. The suspect, Billy Dean Gregory, 55, of O’Brien, is wanted on outstanding warrants and faces multiple charges, including unlawful use of a motor vehicle, theft, reckless driving, and attempting to elude police. Gregory is described as a white male, approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall, weighing 198 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. He was last seen around 1:00 p.m. switching stolen vehicles in the Colver Road area of Talent. At this time, it is unknown what vehicle he may be driving. The suspect remains at large. There is no further information available for release at this time. Anyone who sees Billy Dean Gregory or has information regarding his whereabouts is urged to call 911 immediately. ...Read more

Mt. Ashland Opens Today With Limited Terrain for the 2025-2026 Season

Mt. Ashland Ski Area announced it will open for the 2025-26 winter season today, with limited terrain available. Guests will notice several exciting upgrades this season, including additional LED night lighting on the Lithia Chairlift and the expansion of Twilight Skiing terrain to include Lupine and Poma in preparation for Twilight Skiing beginning January 8, as well as the newly paved Karen & Sid DeBoer Lodge guest plaza and new directional signage inside The Lodge. The Sonnet Chairlift, Lithia Chairlift, and the First Act Learning Carpet will operate from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A limited-time $18 Sonnet single-day lift ticket, which includes access to Sonnet Chairlift, Lithia Chairlift and First Act, is available. Open terrain will include Sonnet for beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders. Poma and Lupine will be open for ...Read more

Commissioner Smith Leaves Meeting, Sites Litigation against Him, County

Commissioner Ron Smith departed during the initial roll call of the 8th Commissioner meeting stating there was litigation filed against him and the county. Applause from present community members followed, and since there was no quorum, no business could be conducted. The meeting was adjourned at 10:05 a.m. Commissioner Chris Barnett remained present but didn't proceed with discussion or questions from the community. Legal Counsel Wally Hicks confirmed the active litigation and didn't recommend further discussion. Commissioner Smith has been absent for the last eight meetings, but according to the Daily Courier, he announced Monday he will "reengage" in the process of filling the open seat, based on new legal guidance. However, he also said he continues to object to the process. ...Read more