Good morning, Grants Pass.

Today, Josephine Community Library District upgraded technology at its four branches using a $74,796 state grant, installing 29 new desktops and 8 loanable laptops.

The improvements, set to complete at Wolf Creek and Williams branches by the end of July, boost digital access + support training for residents.

This week brings a busy lineup for Southern Oregon as events like the Jackson County Fair - opening today at The Expo in Central Point - and daily farmers markets enliven communities from Grants Pass to Ashland.

Residents are reminded to stay safe during warm afternoons with elevated fire danger.

The Meltdown, led by Nik Martin, will hold its soft opening Friday, July 17 in Phoenix with gourmet grilled cheese and partnerships while donating $1 from every sandwich to Ethos Academy — it will serve Grants Pass residents every Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The Mixed Grill.

Abby’s Legendary Pizza launches custom rubber ducks for birthday parties to add fun to age-old family traditions.

Local residents can visit the Beacon social media page to share favorite birthday memories (contest details provided) and win one of these collectible keepsakes.

Grants Pass School District purchased a used activity bus for $35,000 on July 14 at 12:00 p.m. (The bus has fewer than 150,000 miles and is built to run up to a million miles) and it will transport students to athletic events, music performances, and field trips.

Southern Oregon remains under High fire danger as rising temperatures and low humidity dry out vegetation; fire officials urge residents to take precautions (such as avoiding equipment that may emit sparks) to help prevent wildfires.

Fire crews battling the East Evans Creek Fire now benefit from a new camp set up by the Oregon Department of Forestry's Complex Incident Management Team 1 in White City — the camp offers a full-service kitchen, showers, laundry, and hand wash stations to support crews after their shifts.

Oregon officials are preparing for federal changes that will shift more SNAP costs to the state — prompting upgrades in systems and budget adjustments.

Local agencies and community partners in Grants Pass are planning for increased demand as rising living costs strain household budgets.

Federal investigators continue tracking a Cyclospora outbreak that has sickened people in over 30 states as produce from national networks reaches local stores; Oregon shoppers are urged to wash fruits and vegetables carefully — even though they look fresh — to reduce risk.

Cirque Ma'Ceo Live Show

Unspecified time — Fairgrounds Towing & Fuel LLC — Check event for ticket details — Experience breathtaking acrobatics and the thrill of equestrian performances under the Big Top.

Live Weekend Music at Conner Fields Brewing

6 p.m. — Conner Fields Brewing — Check brewery for details — Enjoy seasonal beers and live music during weekends at this local favorite.

Monster X Tour

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Josephine County Fairgrounds — Tickets start at $19.95 — Experience the thrill of monster trucks and freestyle competitions at this exciting motorsport event.

Monster X Tour

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Josephine County Fairgrounds — Tickets start at $19.95 — Experience thrilling monster truck competitions and meet the drivers up close!