Art Along the Rogue Returns to Downtown Grants Pass
The 22nd Annual Art Along the Rogue Art and Music Festival is coming up October 3, 4, and 5, in downtown Grants Pass. This year’s theme is “Time Warp: When Past Meets Future.” The festival will be expanded to include the Oregon Center for Creative Learning, which will host the Kiddie Squares on the northwest corner of 4th and G Streets, the former Dutch Bros headquarters, on Saturday and Sunday. The Grants Pass Museum of Art between 4th and 5th on G Street will host several artists painting on their patio. Sharyn Chan from Goleta, California, will return this year to create a 3D piece. Ashly Wissler of Cave Junction and Joel Yau of San Rafael, California, are two premier artists who will create in a 12x12 square. Since its inception in 2003, Art Along the Rogue has been one of Grants Pass's premier community events and one of Oregon's leading street chalk and music festivals, attracting thousands every October. ...Read more

Library Lease Agreement Approved by Josephine County and Library District

The latest library lease agreement has been approved by both Josephine County and the Library District. During their Tuesday workshop, the Josephine County Board of Commissioners voted 2-1 to approve a new five-year lease agreement for the Grants Pass library building at 200 NW C Street, with Commissioner Blech voting against. Commissioner Chris Barnett made a motion to adopt the latest version of the lease, with a modified “for cause” termination clause. Under the agreement, the library district will assume responsibility for the maintenance of the building and grounds. The Josephine Community Library District Board of Directors discussed the updated lease and agreed to its terms, clearing the way for the continuation of library services in Josephine County. Library Director Kate Lasky said “We are relieved this agreement moves us past months of uncertainty. This has been a difficult process, but what matters most is that we can keep our focus on serving the community.” ...Read more

OHCS Encourages 2020 Labor Day Fires Survivors to Apply for Help

Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is encouraging survivors of the 2020 Labor Day wildfires and straight-line winds to start applying for the Homeowner Assistance and Reconstruction Program (HARP). HARP is part of a suite of wildfire recovery programs called ReOregon, which is funded by a $422 million Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. HARP helps survivor homeowners rebuild, repair, replace, or buy a new home, as well as be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses incurred during their recovery. OHCS expanded eligibility criteria for these recovery pathways to help more survivors apply before the deadline December 31st, 2025. To apply, fill out an Eligibility Questionnaire. If found to be eligible, you will receive an email invitation to begin the full application process. ...Read more