Good morning, Grants Pass.

CASA of Jackson and Josephine County has a new leader as Sarah Robbins — a longtime public defender — begins in June to replace retiring executive director Jennifer Mylenek.

Robbins will seek grants and organize community events to support children in the foster care system.

Southern Oregon Sanitation has announced its sale to Waste Connections & will maintain local staff and service routes, ending nearly 80 years of family ownership.

The transition promises a seamless change that continues trusted waste collection for Josephine County residents.

Rogue Workforce Partnership is hosting a Rapid Response Session today from 1 to 3 p.m. at the RCC/SOU Higher Education Center in downtown Medford to help locals affected by planned layoffs at Asante — a job fair is set for June 18 at Padgham Pavilion.

More teens in Southern Oregon are starting online businesses to earn cash and learn money management under adult supervision + banks now offer kid-friendly accounts while families help with savings, taxes, and spending.

This trend gives young entrepreneurs a head start in financial responsibility.

A new state law now requires most paddlecraft to have a permit on the Rogue River and other waterways, with fees ranging from $6 to $35 to fund water access improvements and invasive species prevention — some locals worry the cost will affect a cherished summer activity.

Southern Oregon residents are advised to get a full medical evaluation before starting testosterone treatment as natural aging and lifestyle choices can lower hormone levels, and experts say better sleep, exercise and diet (cornerstones of healthy aging) often help improve overall energy.

Talent Mobile Estates, a mobile housing community rebuilt for families who lost homes in the 2020 wildfires, is now full.

The project helped 87 families (many first-time homeowners) secure new homes after careful coordination with ACCESS and CASA of Oregon.

SoHumane's Miles for Mutts

11 AM – 4 PM — Wooldridge Creek Vineyard, Winery, Creamery & Charcuterie — Free entry — Walk, wag & toast with your dogs while enjoying food, T-shirts, and wine.

17th Annual Fur Ball

4-9 p.m. — The Lindsay Lodge & Restaurant — $75 per person — Enjoy a delightful dinner while supporting local efforts and bidding on unique auction items.

Goldpine & Bronwyn Keith-Hynes Live Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Hivve - Coworking & Venue — Ticketed event — Experience a night of award-winning Americana and folk music with live performances from Goldpine and Grammy-winning Bronwyn Keith-Hynes.