Here's your local news at a glance for Monday, the 28th of April.
Good morning, Grants Pass.
Dutcher Creek Golf Course will mark its 30th anniversary on May 4—offering free green fees, a 30% discount at its Pro Shop, and a family event with food trucks to honor three decades of service.
Founded in 1994, the course has long been a hub for local tournaments and family outings in Grants Pass.
Local childhood friends completed a 157-mile row down the Rogue River on Saturday afternoon after leaving Lost Creek Lake Dam on Friday morning and finishing the 31-hour, 7-minute journey at Gold Beach to raise money for a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (a rare muscle disease affecting young William Jackson). The group was cheered by supporters as they celebrated their impressive feat.
County insiders raised concerns over corruption after Michael Sellers was hired in 2023 for a combined IT and Emergency Management role and later named Director of Operations; they allege his questionable hiring led to a 35% increase in department budgets and key staff losses.
Officials have not explained the cost increases or answered public records requests (including details on a voluntary resignation program estimated at about $800,000), and the controversy continues to grow.
Josephine County has consolidated IT, HR, finance, and emergency management under one non-elected Director of Operations, Michael Sellers.
Residents and officials worry about the high concentration of power—especially since neighboring counties keep these roles separate.
The Oregon Senate passed Senate Bill 605, which would stop medical providers, hospitals, and debt collectors from reporting medical debt to consumer credit agencies, and the bill will now be reviewed by the Oregon House.
If enacted, the bill will help local residents avoid long-term credit issues from hospital bills (a move backed by consumer advocates).
The Rogue Theatre in downtown Grants Pass has been listed for sale for $2 million by Merit Commercial Real Estate—this historic venue, which opened in 1938, includes the building, business assets, and operational equipment for its 550-seat auditorium and renowned neon signage.
The sale offers transitional support from the current owner and continues the venue's legacy as a local entertainment hub.
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.
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