Good morning, Grants Pass.

The Summer EBT program returns for its second year to help families facing food insecurity during the summer, with eligible children receiving $120 each and automatic benefits having started on May 22.

Families who do not qualify automatically must apply by Sept. 3 to receive help (students are eligible if they meet income guidelines or get free or reduced-price meals).

Opera returns to Grants Pass when One Eleven Theatre Company revives The Old Maid and the Thief with a live radio play format and real-time sound effects (the production blends vintage radio style and operatic storytelling).

Two performances are set for August 8 at 7:00 p.m. and August 10 at 2:00 p.m. (tickets cost $15 and audiences can meet the cast after the show).

The Josephine Community Library launched its 2025 Summer Reading Program from June 14 through August 9 with the theme "Level Up at Your Library" — offering free reading activities, weekly crafts, and special events at all four branches in Grants Pass.

The program, supported by local sponsors, aims to help students avoid summer reading loss and is open to everyone without a library card.

Starting this week, residents who show their Josephine Community Library card at one of nine food trucks get 10% off their order and a limited-edition 'Food for Thought' sticker while supplies last.

The program runs through August as part of a summer reading campaign that encourages all ages to earn prizes—boosting library engagement and local food truck business.

On Saturday, June 7th, a grass mower sparked a wildfire that burned 35 acres in southern Oregon, and Jackson County Fire District 5, Medford Fire, and the Oregon Department of Forestry worked together under a long-time mutual aid plan—Medford Fire Deputy Chief Devon Brown said the teams help each other automatically. Firefighters urged people to take steps to prevent human-caused fires.

Josephine County insiders allege that Treasurer Mark DeYoung is mishandling his duties by delegating his core responsibilities to a chief deputy and failing to secure a required surety bond—raising serious concerns amid a countywide 12% budget cut.

Employees and whistleblowers now are calling for his resignation or a recall as county officials have yet to take formal action.

Senate Bill 1177, introduced by Senator Jeff Golden of Ashland, would divert about 60% of the expected surplus from the tax kicker refund to fund wildfire prevention in Southern Oregon—this change, aimed at boosting programs like controlled burns and defensible space, tied to a surplus estimated at $1.64 billion, passed initial committee review and now awaits further amendments and legislative votes. Local leaders are weighing the benefits of enhanced fire safety against concerns over reduced cash rebates for residents.

Chris Pizzi was hired by Asante as chief operating and financial officer at Rogue Regional Medical Center—a move after four years leading southern Oregon operations at Providence.

He will begin his new role on July 21 with over 25 years of experience in health system operations.

The Children's Festival

4:00-8:30 p.m. — Britt Festival Pavilion — $5 per household — Enjoy a family-friendly environment with a calmer entry for a memorable festival experience.

Live Music with Borderline Music and Flour of Life Waffles

2-5 p.m. — Walport Family Cellars — Enjoy delicious waffles while listening to a captivating string duo blend multiple music styles.

City Mouse, Suckerpunch & Steven

8-11:30 p.m. — Our Studio — All ages event — Experience an electrifying night of live music featuring City Mouse, Suckerpunch & Steven.