Good morning, Grants Pass.

Governor Kotek directed the Oregon Education Department on July 2 to work with local school agencies after federal officials withheld Title funds needed for low-income student programs.

Local education agencies are developing contingency plans and exploring alternate funding options — measures intended to prevent cuts and service disruptions — as schools prepare for the upcoming academic year.

Fire crews in southern Oregon quickly contained two small fires sparked by lightning and dry conditions earlier this month.

Crews secured lines around the 2.5-acre Alder Creek Fire and the 0.5-acre Hibbard Point Fire—both northwest of Prospect—and continued mop-up operations as they monitored additional smoke near Lost Creek Lake and the Applegate Valley.

Travelers to and from Josephine County face extreme heat and wildfire-related road delays starting today through July 13, with temperatures peaking at 101°F on Monday and intermittent closures on US 199 near Hayes Hill.

Air travel through Medford’s airport is expected to be busy because of Fourth of July travel, and rental car demand remains high—drivers should check live updates before leaving.

Starting January 1, 2026, a new law will stop medical debt from hurting seniors’ credit scores by keeping such debt off reports—seniors still must pay their bills, but the rule aims to protect their scores during hard times.

This change comes as part of an update to the state’s Unlawful Trade Practices Act signed earlier this year.

Many Oregon families are planning affordable tent camping staycations to explore local natural beauty from the coast to the deserts—campsites near Grants Pass offer varied experiences for outdoor adventures.

Proper preparation is advised given changing weather and terrain conditions.

Residents in Southern Oregon can transform a bare front yard into a colorful garden for under $100 by preparing soil, planting seeds, and using reclaimed materials – local programs and plant swaps help keep expenses low.

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.

Corvette Weekend

10 a.m. - 8:31 p.m. — Riverside Park & Josephine County Fairgrounds — RSVP required — A celebratory weekend for Corvette enthusiasts featuring a breakfast and fun activities.

Clyde and the Milltailers Live Performance

7:30-11:30 p.m. — The Wonder Bur Steakhouse & Lounge — Tickets at door — Enjoy a nostalgic evening of unique music from Clyde, renowned for his unmatched voice and instrumental flair.

Josephine County Fair 2025

5 PM – 5 PM — Josephine County Fairgrounds — Admission details not specified — Celebrate local brewing with a showcase of beer, mead, and cider at the fair.

Rogue Gem & Geology Club at the Fair

8:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. — Josephine County Fairgrounds — Various prices — Explore unique rocks and gems while enjoying club activities and raffles.

Barnaby Jones with Fox Medicine and Summer Colds

8-11:59 p.m. — Our Studio — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of alternative music with Barnaby Jones and supporting acts Fox Medicine and Summer Colds.