Good morning, Grants Pass.

On May 19 at 10:48 a.m., police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 199 near Waldamar Road that killed a 24-year-old Cave Junction man when his Toyota Corolla failed to stop at a sign and was hit on the driver’s side by a GMC Yukon — authorities said the highway was partially closed for about three hours while investigators worked the scene.

Rogue River Police Chief Dave Rash received the National Academy Associates Award from the FBI on May 9 (presented by Special Agent Douglas Olson at the Portland Field Office).

On Tuesday, the Oregon House blocked House Bill 2432, which would have repealed HB3115 that limits local control over public camping—Representative Dwayne Yunker said the law has handcuffed local officials as encampments and safety issues grow in Grants Pass.

Local leaders and business owners now face tougher challenges in keeping streets safe and are considering legal and political steps to address the rising crisis.

The Josephine Community Library District met on Tuesday with County Commissioner Chris Barnett & legal representatives to discuss renewing its $1-a-year lease for the historic Grants Pass library building at 200 NW C Street and to request a five-year renewal with an option to extend after the county's surprise vote to end the lease earlier this year. Library Director Kate Lasky said the meeting was critical to secure stability as the district continues fundraising for a new library before the December 31 deadline.

The Oregon Legislature passed HB2299 to add digital forgeries in criminal law on revenge pornography—closing a loophole in current privacy protections with unanimous votes in both the House and Senate.

City officials, developers, and community stakeholders broke ground on Nebraska Trail Apartments at 1801 SW Nebraska Avenue to build a 51-unit complex for families earning 60% or less of the area median income; the project — led by Chrisman Development with support from Oregon Housing and Community Services — will be completed by mid-2026.

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.

Senior Living Awards Tour

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Forest Meadows — Free entry — Discover award-winning senior living communities with exceptional care and activities.

2025 Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Southern Oregon Sanitation — Free entry — Safely dispose of hazardous household materials while protecting your home and environment.

Shining a Light on Hunger

6-9 p.m. — Vista 222 — Donation-based — Raise awareness and funds to combat hunger while enjoying breathtaking views.

Comedy of Errors

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Walport Family Cellars — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy a lively performance of Shakespeare's Comedy of Errors in a picturesque vineyard setting.