As he retires, city planning and development director reflects on Hynix, housing and hops

There's nothing modest about sales taxes | Letter to the editor

I have to disagree with Douglas Berg’s guest column in Lookout calling for a “modest 3% sales tax with exemptions for basics like food, medical care, and childcare.” He claims using that tax would make it possible for Oregon to eliminate income taxes for low- and some middle-income people. But low- and middle-income people spend […]

Oregon health insurance premiums keep rising. Isn't it time for a better system? | Letter to the editor

Regarding the news that Oregon health insurance marketplace plans are expected to see large premium hikes in 2027, insurance companies submit that their overheads have increased. In fact, they are not run efficiently. Corporate insurance overhead costs range from 15% to 25%. In contrast, a single-payer insurer’s overhead – traditional Medicare, for example – is […]

Oregon weighs enrollment caps, paying for claims as double-digit insurance hikes set for 2027 

Expiring tax credits to offset premium costs have been central to the rate increases. Congress opted against extending the COVID-era enhanced tax credits last year.

Make your own fruit leather — harnessing old tech and new

Plums, figs, peaches, nectarines, apples, berries and tomatoes are good candidates for fruit leather, which can help you enjoy your summer bounty in the middle of the winter.

Marie Jones, former police dispatcher, horse breeder, dies at 85

Friends and family remember Marie Jones as the “chocolate chip cookie queen,” having an undying love for horses and as a dedicated local philanthropist.