Good morning, Grants Pass.

Wildlife Images is a non-profit wildlife conservation and rehabilitation agency in Merlin — it cares for wolves at the park and has drawn international attention; photo credit goes to Zach Galloway of Rogue River Press.

Grants Pass Police will launch a traffic safety operation today from 8 a.m. to noon around schools and crosswalks to check for seatbelt use, speeding, and proper yielding; the effort, supported by a grant from the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), follows concerns from residents about unsafe driving. The targeted operation aims to improve safety near school drop-off and pedestrian areas.

The Illinois Valley Fire District received nearly $97,000 from the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program — the funds will buy updated NFPA compliant structural gear to improve firefighter safety in Josephine County.

The Evans Valley Fire District Board of Directors approved spending nearly $1.8 million in grant funding from WRK Engineering (WRK-IMEG) for seismic upgrades at its Sept.

11 meeting.

Josephine County Commissioner Chris Barnett was awarded $100,000 in a defamation lawsuit against John Riccio—operator of a fringe news site—after Riccio failed to respond in court, and the ruling also orders 9% annual interest until the full amount is paid.

Barnett said the verdict is meant to hold publishers accountable for spreading false claims.

Arizona signed a law this year that makes it a crime to lie about military service for benefits—Senator Walt Blackman sponsored the bill.

Oregon still uses broad fraud rules and may consider a dedicated law to protect veteran honor in the future.

Local shelter workers found Luna, a three-month-old puppy with a fractured leg near 5th and 6th Street on September 23 and rushed her to Pacific Veterinary Clinic, where she now awaits a $3,000 surgery — a critical operation to help her live a more comfortable life.

Southern Oregon residents are starting brisk morning walks this fall to improve heart health and lower blood pressure; the cool, crisp air motivates many to reduce stress and build fitness—residents are expected to continue this routine into winter.

Rogue River Jr. Sr. High volleyball, led by returning coach Joe Kolkow, won its first league set against the Bruins in the Class 3A Southern Oregon Conference campaign and marked a milestone in its rebuilding season—improving on last year’s results.

Fort Vannoy Farms Haunted Corn Maze

8-10 p.m. — Fort Vannoy Farms — Timed tickets required — Experience an unforgettable night of thrills with clowns, vampires, and zombies in a thrilling haunted maze.

Elton Dan and the Rocket Band

8-10 p.m. — Rogue Theatre — $ — Experience the magic of Elton John's music performed live by superfan Elton Dan.