Good morning, Grants Pass.

Oregon State Parks hosts Winter Whale Watch Week from Dec.

27 through 31 at sites (Umpqua Lighthouse, Shore Acres, Face Rock, and Harris Beach) to see gray whales, guided hikes begin Jan. 1 at 25 parks, and Grants Pass accepts Water Quality Report Photo Contest entries due Dec. 31.

Girl Scout Troop 301‑84 built a Buddy Bench today at Rogue River Elementary School to help students connect and make friends.

The bench — decorated with rainbows and motivational quotes — earned the troop a Bronze Award while promoting kindness.

Residents facing rising costs can receive free financial education + housing counseling through programs offered by the Oregon Financial Education Network, UCAN, Rogue Credit Union and ACCESS.

These local resources help families, seniors and veterans manage budgets and plan for long-term stability.

Residents in Southern Oregon face steep electric bill increases as Pacific Power’s approved 9.8% rate rise adds up to nearly 50% cumulative hikes since 2021, straining local budgets & forcing many to confront bills that can jump by $50 even with low usage.

Strong winter storms brought heavy rain, flooding and hazardous travel conditions to Southern Oregon this week (including near Grants Pass), with downed trees causing temporary road closures.

Emergency crews remain active as cleanup efforts continue and officials warn delays in highway services may extend into the holiday season.

Goldilocks, a six-month-old kitten, is featured as Pet of the Week at the Josephine County Animal Shelter (spayed, vaccinated, microchipped) and is ready for adoption this holiday season.

Interested families can call the shelter (541 474 5458) to schedule a visit, with an adoption fee of $90.