Good morning, Grants Pass.

Today, the Grants Pass Tribune invites community members to share their stories by writing letters and articles that express their views on local issues.

The paper will work with each contributor to polish submissions + publish every voice without filtering by perspective.

A hiker was rescued from Rainie Falls Trail in Josephine County after injuring both ankles on Wednesday — search and rescue reached the individual two miles into the trail with a wheeled litter carrier and safely transported them off the trail.

In southern Oregon, modern gold mining requires filing a claim with the BLM, paying fees of $25 for processing, $49 for location and $200 for maintenance that total $274, and obtaining an NPDES permit at least 180 days before work begins.

Miners must follow both federal and state environmental rules—failure to do so can lead to fines and high startup costs that may reach millions for larger operations.

Grants Pass High School metal fabrication students welded benches that a graduate powder coated as part of the athletic booster club’s ongoing renovation of the tennis courts.

The project is updating school athletic facilities — further improvements may follow soon.

The Josephine County Budget Committee will meet on May 2 at 10:30 a.m. in the Anne Basker Auditorium to review the proposed budget for the fiscal year starting July 1 and ending June 30, 2026 — community members may attend in person or view the livestream and submit comments in writing or by email.

U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden joined Southern Oregon educators, parents and local officials Saturday morning to celebrate that federal funding for Head Start has been preserved—he warned that the fight to protect early education will continue amid potential federal budget cuts.

During Friday’s county meeting, Commissioner Chris Barnett said that officials risk their lives daily, a claim that sparked concern and debate in the community.

He later admitted he spoke to only one constituent at the session—raising more questions about his leadership.

Jen Howard Live Performance

8 PM — The Sound Lounge — Ticket prices vary — Experience the heartfelt tunes of singer/songwriter Jen Howard in a cozy setting.

Fleetwood Mask: The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute

8 PM – Midnight — Rogue Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the only Fleetwood Mac tribute endorsed by Mick Fleetwood himself.

The Nooners Group Meeting

12-1 p.m. — Newman United Methodist Church — Closed meeting — Engage in a supportive discussion focused on recovery from alcohol addiction.

Boatnik Festival 2025

All day — Riverside Park — Free entry — Celebrate over 60 years of community fun with activities and festivities at this beloved annual festival.