National Weather Service Posts Flood Potential Outlook in SW Oregon & NW California
The National Weather Service has posted a Flood Potential Outlook calling for rapid rises and possible flooding from rain and snow melt on rivers and streams in southwest Oregon and northern California. The NWS advisory is in effect for Jackson, Josephine, Douglas, Coos and Curry counties in Oregon as well as Siskiyou County in California. An active storm track will remain over the area through at least early next week. Another frontal system is moving into the area today, followed by an atmospheric river system late Saturday into Sunday. Each of these systems is expected to bring snow and wind impacts to portions of the area. The fluctuating precipitation and snow levels means that some recently accumulated snow will be melted by the heavy rainfall, causing increased runoff. River levels are expected to rise -- especially west of the Cascades from Sunday into Monday as heavy rain moves into the western portions of the area. A Flood Potential Outlook is issued when there is the potential for significant rises or flooding along rivers and streams. The exact scenario for flooding remains uncertain. Flood watches and warnings may be issued if the situation worsens. ...Read more

Application Window Now Open to Apply for Permits for Downtown GP Dining Parklets
The City of Grants Pass has announced that the window for applying for a permit to operate dining parklets in the Central Business District is now open. The Grants Pass City Council has placed a high priority on encouraging economic opportunities for restaurants in the downtown core to enhance and expand their operating areas by creating attractive outdoor parklets. Dining parklets can be placed as early as May 2nd and they must be removed before November 4th. Last year, Catalyst Pizza, House of Glory, the Laughing Clam and the Wonder Bur provided parklets for summer dining. This year, businesses shall choose and build an approved parklet. The City will approve the application and design. Logos, advertising or branding on parklets is prohibited. No smoking signs must be installed. A City of Grants Pass Sidewalk Cafe/Parklet addendum permit must be obtained through the Community Development Department, 101 NW A Street, Grants Pass, OR 97526 or by calling (541)-450-6060. The permits are free. ...Read more

Board of Commissioners Honored Two Local Groups for Going Far Beyond Call of Duty

The Josephine County Board of Commissioners took time during its weekly business session yesterday to honor two groups of people who have gone far beyond the call of duty on the behalf of others. The Board first presented certificates to eight members of Parkwatch Grants Pass who volunteer to keep city parks clean and free of drug paraphernalia and trash. The presentation followed a video that showed the group cleaning up parks and a large amount of drug paraphernalia collected from their efforts. Under the banner "Parks are For Kids," the group is always looking for more volunteers. The Commissioners then honored four members of the Josephine County Sheriff's Office who saved the life of a co-worker in early February. Certificates were given to Lieutenant Geiger, Detective Sergeant Henrich and Evidence Technicians Kayla Lauer and Haylee Bayard who used an automatic external defibrillator to save the life of Doug DuLong after he suffered a critical cardiac event. During the public comment period, a woman praised local law enforcement and criticized sex education in schools, a man gave his reasons for the separation of church and state, and another man requested the return of the OSU Extension Service to Josephine County. ...Read more