Ribbon Cutting Tuesday for First Dual-Branded Applebee's and IHOP in Grants Pass

The Siyavoush Soleimani Group is set to open their first dual-branded restaurant in Grants Pass on Tuesday. The Applebee's and IHOP located at 250 NE Agness Ave., is opening its doors September 23rd. It will offer guests IHOP’s world-famous pancakes and breakfast offerings, along with Applebee’s fan-favorite boneless wings, burgers, and appetizers, all under one roof. The Grants Pass Chamber of Commerce and the Siyavoush Soleimani Group will host a special ribbon cutting ceremony with fun giveaways and a free meal raffle for the first 100 guests tomorrow at 9 a.m. All are welcome to join the event and be among the first to visit the new restaurant. ...Read more

Latest Library Lease Draft Classifies Roof Replacement Costs as Rent

Legal Counsel Wally Hicks released an updated library lease Friday afternoon to be considered by the Board of Commissioners and Library District. In a release regarding the lease draft, Hicks reports the payment that the library agreed to make to the county towards replacement of the roof would now be classified as rent. The total payment amount for five years would be $27,687. Pre-payment on the total rent is $20,424. Annual payments due will be $1,453. The county will continue to be responsible for replacement of the roof. The termination clause remains, saying if the lease isn't carried out, the defaulting party would be notified 30 days in advance if there was intent to terminate. ...Read more

BLM Closures to be lifted after Increased Containment of Kelsey Peak Fire

Thanks to increased containment on the Kelsey Peak Fire, Bureau of Land Management closures will be opened. The BLM Grants Pass Field Office will lift the closure order on BLM Road 32-9-14.2 and the BLM-administered section of the Rogue River Trail from Horseshoe Bend to Marial today. Official assessments determined the road and trail closures are no longer needed. Firefighters continue operations on the Kelsey Peak Fire and are still using portions of BLM Road 32-9-14.2. Additionally, they are using the Grave Creek to Marial Backcountry Byway and the Cow Creek Scenic Byway. People using those routes are cautioned to drive slowly, watch out for firefighting equipment, and drive with headlights on. The BLM Medford District remains in high fire danger. ...Read more