ODF Crews Continue to Make Good Progress on Fires Despite Hot & Windy Conditions
The Oregon Department of Forestry is continuing aggressive suppression action across all fires in Jackson and Josephine counties, the majority of which were caused by lightning strikes during Monday evening thunderstorms. As of Wednesday night, the fire count remained at 72 between the two counties, with numerous fires already caught and extinguished at small sizes. The remaining fires are staffed with resources and progress continues to be made across the board despite hot and windy conditions. ODF's Complex Incident Management Team 3 is taking command of the larger fire incidents this morning, freeing up local resources to be ready for potential new fire starts. The Neil Creek Road Fire located south of Ashland and west of Interstate 5 is still estimated to be 250 acres. With help of additional retardant drops yesterday, crews have been able to solidify line around 50% of the fire's perimeter. The Deming Gulch Fire located northeast of Buncom is currently estimated to be 250 acres while the Heppsie Mountain Fire south of Highway 140 near Lake Creek remains 40 acres in size. The nearby Poole Hill Fire has been stopped at 11.5 acres. The North Fork Deer Creek Fire located in the hills east of Selma is 42 acres, the Jim Me Peak Fire south of Applegate is estimated to be 70 acres and the Palmer Peak Fire near Applegate was last reported to be 90 acres. ...Read more

Josephine County to Hold Public Hearing on 2025 Community Development Block Grants
Josephine County is eligible to apply for a 2025 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) from Business Oregon. Community Development Block Grant funds come from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The grants can be used for public facilities and housing improvements, primarily for persons with low and moderate incomes. Approximately $11.5 million will be awarded to Oregon non-metropolitan cities and counties this year. The maximum grant that a city or county can receive for a housing rehabilitation grant is $500,000. Josephine County is preparing an application for a 2025 Community Development Block Grant to fund a housing rehabilitation project that will serve areas outside the incorporated area of Grants Pass. It is estimated that the proposed project will benefit at least 20 low- and/or moderate-income households. A public hearing will be held by the Board of Commissioners at 10 a.m. on July 31st at the Anne G. Basker Auditorium. The purpose of the hearing is for the Board to obtain citizen views and to respond to questions and comments about community development and housing needs. ...Read more

RCC Department Offering Fast-Track Program in Early Childhood Education This Fall
Rogue Community College is now enrolling students for a fast-track Early Childhood Education (ECE) program that will be offered this fall. Designed to quickly prepare individuals for work with infants, toddlers and preschoolers, the program is funded by a grant that will cover tuition and books for 30 students. A short informational video is available at "roguecc.edu/FastTrack." Prospective students should complete the questionnaire on that page to receive information about the application process and Zoom information sessions. The program offers a supportive, hands-on learning experience for those interested in becoming early childhood educators or teaching assistants. Students can begin working in the field in as little as one academic term. In just one term, students can complete a Basic Certificate to qualify as a teaching assistance. Students who continue in the program can earn an Intermediate Certificate in two additional terms, preparing them to take on lead teaching roles. ...Read more