Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 9th of July.
Good morning, Grants Pass.
🏘️ Community
Grants Pass has launched a new round of the Utility Box Art Project to invite local artists, students, and creative teams to design art for utility boxes around the city.
Selected designs will be printed as vinyl wraps on all four sides and the top of each box—applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. August 15, and chosen artists will receive a $350 stipend per box.
🌲 Environment
The Deming Gulch Fire is burning northeast of Buncom and now covers an estimated 350 acres.
Firefighters are using engines — bulldozers to build fire lines while no evacuations are in place.
Firefighters from the Oregon Department of Forestry responded to 53 smoke reports after thunderstorms moved through Jackson and Josephine counties and confirmed 22 fires with 15 still active.
Crews worked overnight and will keep sending resources to incidents – including Heppsie Mountain, Poole Hill and Pompadour fires – while reconstructions continue.
🏛️ Government
The newly formed Josephine County Rural Fire Protection District signed a service agreement with Rural Metro Fire on July 7th to keep fire, medical, and emergency services running without new taxes for local residents.
The board will hold a public meeting on July 14 at 10:00 a.m. at Parkway Fire Station (800 E. Park Street) to discuss next steps.
Residents in Josephine County are raising questions at county commissioners meetings about a vague agenda item called ‘Other’ that leads to quick votes without clear details.
Critics say the board’s use of this category — which limits public discussion and insight — may hurt trust and transparency in government.
The SBA approved Governor Tina Kotek’s request for federal disaster assistance after severe floods hurt homes, businesses, and nonprofits in Coos, Curry, Douglas, Jackson, Josephine, Klamath, and Lake counties.
Eligible people must apply online for low-interest physical damage loans by August 25—while economic injury loan applications are accepted until March 2026.
🎉 Grants Pass Events
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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.
🏠 Grants Pass Real Estate
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💼 Grants Pass Job Board
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📣 Grants Pass Announcements
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