WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2025
City Council Reviews Homelessness Grant Procedures Among Transparency Concerns
By John Oliver
During a recent Grants Pass City Council workshop, attention turned to the city’s current approach to awarding homelessness grants, specifically the limitations on the information provided to elected officials during the selection process. At the center of the discussion was the City’s Request for Proposals (RFP) process, which governs how funding recipients are chosen and how much information is shared with the Council prior to making final decisions.
The current RFP for the homelessness grant, issued on June 19, 2025, outlines a structured process whereby a designated review panel evaluates submitted proposals and assigns numerical scores. Applicants are ranked based on their average score, and only the highest-scoring proposal is advanced for formal consideration. The winning proposal is then scheduled for presentation to the City Council on or after August 6, 2025, along with a draft grant agreement.
Under the procedural guidelines outlined in the RFP, evaluation details for proposals that do not receive the top score are not included in the materials presented to the Council. Instead, these details remain confidential until after a final award is made. At that point, the full scoring breakdown becomes a matter of public record. However,
this means that prior to approval, Council members are not given the opportunity to review competing proposals, compare evaluation scores, or understand the reasoning behind the selection beyond the final recommendation.
This limited access to comparative data has raised questions about the transparency and accountability of the process. In past competitive funding programs administered by the City—such as the Tourism Promotion Grant and federal ARPA Affordable Housing grants—Council materials often included information on multiple finalists or, at the very least, a summary of how top proposals performed relative to one another. While those practices were not required by their respective RFPs, they were implemented to provide
broader insight into the decision-making process and to offer a clearer picture to both the Council and the public.
Despite the restrictive format of the current RFP, the City Council maintains full authority to approve, reject, or request modifications to the funding recommendation. Councilors also retain the option to request additional background on the scoring process, including anonymized summaries or breakdowns of how top-ranking proposals were evaluated. In addition, members of the public may request detailed scoring data through public records channels once the grant award is finalized.
The broader issue highlighted in this discussion is the balance between administrative efficiency and public transparency. While
RFPs are designed to streamline funding decisions and protect the integrity of the competitive process, limiting decision-makers to only a single recommended proposal can potentially restrict meaningful debate and critical oversight. Greater visibility into the evaluation process—such as seeing how other applicants performed—could lead to more informed deliberation and greater public confidence in the outcomes.
Going forward, the Council may consider revising future RFPs or adopting internal policies that provide for expanded reporting on finalist proposals, even if not required. Doing so would bring the homelessness grant process more in line with the transparency standards practiced in other city-administered programs and would offer the Council a fuller view of the options available before casting their vote.
As the grant decision nears and the public awaits the City’s announcement, the workshop discussion reflects an ongoing interest in improving the way public funds are distributed, particularly in sensitive areas such as homelessness services. Whether or not procedural changes are made, the issue has opened the door to a broader conversation about governance, accountability, and how decisions are made behind the scenes at City Hall.
Young Entrepreneurs Hit the Streets
Lemonade Day Returns to Grants Pass
By E. Ward
Grants Pass is about to be sweetened up this Saturday, August 9th, as Lemonade Day returns from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. with dozens of young entrepreneurs setting up stands all across town. What might look like a simple lemonade sale is actually the final chapter in a month-long crash course in business ownership for local kids—and the entire community is invited to join in, support, and taste the results.
This annual event, coordinated by the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce, has become much more than just a summertime tradition. It's an introduction to real-world economics, teaching participants how to launch and manage a business from the ground up. Each young vendor goes through the full entrepreneurial journey: developing a business plan, setting goals, sourcing ingredients and materials, designing their stand, marketing their product, and managing money. The final step? Opening for business and serving real customers from real lemonade stands scattered across neighborhoods, parks, and storefronts throughout Grants Pass.
Behind the scenes, this program is a hands-on lesson in financial literacy, personal responsibility, and community-minded entrepreneurship. Alongside learning how to price their lemonade and balance a budget, participants are also encouraged to divide their earnings into three categories: spend a little, save a little, and share a little. The sharing component is especially heartwarming, as many young business owners choose to donate a portion of their profits to local nonprofits—turning their first
venture into a lesson in giving back. Lemonade Day is designed to spark more than just interest in business; it instills confidence and possibility. Many returning participants describe it as the first time they realized they could dream big and take control of their future. For some, it's the first step toward a lifetime of entrepreneurship or leadership. For others, it’s simply an unforgettable summer memory and a proud accomplishment.
The Chamber of Commerce continues
to expand its youth outreach, seeing this event as a valuable tool to inspire the next generation of local leaders. Thanks to the generous support of sponsors and community partners, Lemonade Day remains entirely free for participants, making the program accessible to children of all backgrounds.
A map of all stand locations is available online for those wanting to plan their route and sample as many varieties of lemonade as possible. From classic lemon-and-sugar to inventive fruit fusions, every cup comes with a story—and a whole lot of learning behind it.
So, when you spot a brightly decorated stand this Saturday, stop by and grab a cup. You won’t just be refreshing your taste buds—you’ll be supporting a child’s first steps into the world of business, and encouraging the spirit of entrepreneurship that keeps Grants Pass growing strong.
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NEWS DESK
City Council to Consider Removal of Budget Committee Member
By John Oliver
The Grants Pass City Council is set to consider the removal of a member of its Budget Committee at its upcoming meeting on Wednesday, August 6, 2025. While the individual has not been officially named by the city, public speculation has focused on Mike Pelfrey following concerns over controversial social media posts linked to his account. The posts have reportedly triggered a federal review by the U.S. Secret Service after being submitted through the FBI’s online tip line.
Pelfrey, a politically active resident of Josephine County, has served in an advisory role on the city’s Budget Committee. In recent weeks, multiple residents raised red flags about comments shared on his personal social media ac-
counts, including language referencing “treason” and historical punishments such as hanging. One post reportedly referenced former President Barack Obama. A concerned citizen submitted screenshots and printed copies of the posts to the FBI, which referred the matter to the Secret Service’s Portland field office. That office has since requested and received additional documentation for review.
Federal law under 18 U.S. Code § 879 prohibits threats against former presidents and other protected individuals, regardless of whether the speaker intended to act on those threats. While Pelfrey has not been charged with a crime and is not currently listed in any active case, the federal inquiry remains open. Legal experts note that when speech crosses into perceived threats, especially toward high-profile officials, it may trigger scrutiny, regardless of the speaker’s stated intent.
In an email sent to the Grants Pass Tribune,
Pelfrey acknowledged that his posts were controversial but denied that they were threatening. He stated that he believed his comments were protected political expression and not a call to violence. However, as the Tribune has noted, it is not up to the public or the media to determine what constitutes a legal threat—this decision rests with federal authorities.
The City of Grants Pass has not issued a formal public statement, but during a workshop earlier this week, the Council voted to place the removal of a budget committee member on the August 6 agenda. City policy allows the Council to appoint or remove members of advisory committees at its discretion, without the need to cite specific cause. The upcoming discussion is expected to weigh whether Pelfrey’s public conduct is incompatible with the values and expectations for city representatives, particularly in a role that influences how local tax dollars are allocated.
This is not the first time Pelfrey has been the subject of controversy in the community. He was previously involved in a legal dispute over a failed attempt to withdraw from the Josephine Community Library District and has been named in multiple complaints involving alleged harassment and confrontational political behavior.
According to the citizen who first reported the posts, efforts were made to alert local officials and agencies before contacting federal authorities. Emails were sent to the League of Oregon Cities, several elected officials, and the Grants Pass Police Department. After those efforts reportedly went unanswered, hard copies of the posts were hand-delivered to the Mayor’s office and City Manager.
As the Council prepares to deliberate, the situation highlights broader concerns about accountability, public trust, and the responsibilities of individuals serving in even unpaid advisory roles.
By: Jay Meredith, CPA Investigative Journalist
The BCC Weekly - Taking the
“Blind” out of the BCC
Why Local Journalism Matters in Josephine County
In the last year, journalists at the Grants Pass Tribune have reported on countless controversial issues related to both the City of Grants Pass and Josephine County that elected officials of each would have liked to have swept under the rug. And kudos to the Grants Pass Daily Courier for doing the same.
Vickie Aldous of the Daily Courier earlier in 2025 was the first to break the news of proposed salary adjustments for many of the Grants Pass top managers and department directors which were significantly higher than what most cities and counties in our region pay to their directors and key management staff. This resulted in what could be called a robust public debate as well as the City Council forming a task force to dive deeper into this issue.
John Oliver and I of the Grants Pass Tribune have broken countless news stories over the last year that many of our elected officials and even elected official candidates would have preferred to never have seen the light of day. It may seem like the Grants Pass Tribune has it out for Josephine County and its public officials, but in our view there are simply many more controversial actions and decisions that have happened over the last year in Josephine County government as compared to other local governments in Josephine County.
Certain Josephine County elected officials or former elected officials have gone to great lengths to attempt to silence local journalists. Those attempts to silence us have been particularly intense in recent weeks. Personally, I find it ironic that a couple of our elected officials have sworn to uphold the state and federal constitution but in their actions are doing just the opposite.
Josephine County Commissioner Chris Barnett has been excelling lately with actions that go against local journalists’ and local citizens’ First Amendment rights to free speech. Barnett brought a lawsuit against the owner of the Grants Pass Tribune last fall for allegedly printing false statements about him while he was campaigning for office. I haven’t seen any facts printed about Barnett by the Grants Pass Tribune that were false, and in fact some of the facts Barnett didn’t like seeing in print were just upheld by the Oregon Supreme Court.
Shortly after Chris Barnett started his term as Commissioner in January 2025, Barnett decided to take matters into his own hands by creating several of his own “news” outlets. News is in quotes there because from what I’ve seen those news outlets only pass on announcements from other entities and post generic and likely AI-written news pieces without naming an author that attempt to discredit other local media. Of particular concern was the creation of the “Josephine County Tribune” by Barnett earlier this year which appears to be a direct attack on the Grant Pass Tribune. Barnett himself appears or speaks in most of the videos posted to these “news” pages and in at least one video Barnett claimed to be a reporter for “Real Live News and the Josephine County Tribune.”
A couple weeks ago Barnett’s “news” pages even posted negative “articles” about the Grants Pass Tribune owner and I with generic references to fake news and false facts. Once again, iron-
ically the articles didn’t cite an author and the “news” articles didn’t list any specific facts that were allegedly false.
Just last weekend the Grants Pass Daily Courier reported on Barnett’s inappropriate use of his new local “news” pages which were registered with the Secretary of State and primarily operated on Facebook. Within minutes, Barnett himself posted a rebuttal to the Courier’s article which in my opinion was another attempt to discredit and silence local media anytime we print something that is critical of the behavior of our local elected officials.
Recalled former Commissioner John West, longtime business and political ally to Commissioner Chris Barnett, to this day continues to attempt to suppress our State and Federal Constitutional Rights. Just last week John West filed a ridiculous $2 million lawsuit against two of us that vocally supported his recall while that campaign was going on last fall. We have a federal constitutional right to free speech and a state constitutional right to bring forward a recall petition and campaign for the ouster of an elected official. Last fall John West sued the owner of the Grants Pass Tribune, implying he was the mastermind of the recall. Not long after that, West sued the recall committee’s chief petitioner for statements made in the recall petition. Now nearly 8 months after the recall vote, John West brought a new lawsuit against two other individuals that served as volunteers for the recall campaign.
In my opinion, John West and his political ally Chris Barnett are simply trying to use their money and power to silence critics. And again, in my opinion, based on statements John West has made to Daily Courier reporters, he appears to be attempting to silence some of us because he plans on running for Commissioner again
next year. If that’s true, we’ll see West continue to lose court cases brought against his critics and continue to appeal those losses over and over again. West appears to have no choice but to continue the many lies he’s made in public about the language of the recall petition and the alleged false statements made against him during the recall campaign. West has already been proven wrong on most counts in Josephine County Circuit Court as it relates to the recall petition language and has already chosen the appeal route in two cases he brought – one against the chief petitioner of the recall and one against the County Clerk based on the method used to verify signatures on recall petitions.
West and Barnett have a long history of working together. Last fall Barnett stood up in a Weekly Business Session of the Commissioners saying he has “no business” with John West. Then in a radio interview not long after, Barnett admitted he has been John West’s real estate agent for the last 15 years. And West made a sizeable donation to Barnett’s commissioner campaign.
And let’s not forget that in the BCC’s Weekly Business Session of December 18, 2024, the day after the John West recall election where nearly two thirds of County voters said that West should be recalled from office, Commissioner Andreas Blech stated that he thought Josephine County Voters “made a mistake” in removing West from office. Going against what two thirds of the County voters just said and in a near landslide vote should have been a warning sign to the public before Blech was reappointed to the Commissioner seat again in January after the recall was certified. And sure enough, in my opinion Blech’s actions and votes to date in 2025 have been pursuing a similar agenda that County voters said no to last December.
Several public records requests submitted to Josephine County this year in our pursuit of truth have either been delayed, only partially answered, or ignored completely. And it has appeared to me in 2025, the more controversial the issue the more likely a records request would be delayed or ignored.
I recently grew tired of these improper responses or nonresponses to public records requests. I appealed three of the denials to the District Attorney, and thankfully the DA responded swiftly and correctly.
Two of the denied or partially denied public records requests dealt with the controversial story of the salary and benefits of IT/Emergency Management Director Michael Sellers who was temporarily promoted to be the Interim Director of Finance and HR by Commissioner Andreas Blech earlier this year in addition to his many other duties. And according to the County’s former Finance/HR Director who took advantage of the County’s newly approved voluntary resignation program, Mr. Sellers didn’t have any professional experience in these areas and was given a salary rate much higher than the previous Finance/HR Director who had many years of experience in these areas.
After Josephine County’s former Budget Officer resigned in protest to make it public that Commissioner Blech was attempting to pay Michael Sellers a total compensation package including taxes and benefits of about $388,000
per year for a newly created position of “Director of Operations” to continue overseeing all these areas, Mr. Sellers quick resigned his new position and went back to being the IT and Emergency Management Director. Since the DA upheld these two record request appeals, we will likely be reporting more facts about this story soon.
Not coincidently, the Grants Pass Tribune was the first to break the story last fall about Michael Sellers working two full-time jobs at the same time – one for the State of Oregon serving as a staff member under two State Senators, and one full-time job as the IT/Emergency Management Director of Josephine County. This again should have been a warning sign for both the public and Josephine County’s elected officials, but the warnings were ignored.
In fact, last fall I asked all four County Commissioner candidates what they thought about a full-time department director of the County working another full-time job with the State legislature and whether they would favor the County implementing a new moonlighting policy. Commissioner candidate at the time Chris Barnett was the only candidate that completely refused to answer this question. In case more shouts of fake news appears by Barnett’s “news” pages, I have the written communication with Barnett to prove this. Unlike Barnett, we have documentation to back up everything we claim as fact.
The third public records request that was denied in part and appealed to the DA was a request for a list of expenses the County has had over the last three years in maintaining the exterior of the Grants Pass library branch. As County commissioners voted in January 2025 to unilaterally cancel the Library’s lease about 11 months before the normal expiration date of the lease and cited market value and maintenance cost concerns, I thought seeing what the County’s maintenance costs actually are would be an important factual data point for this ongoing story.
The County’s original response to the request for three years of maintenance cost data was to provide only one year of data. After multiple requests for the other two years of data and after paying a hefty records fee and being denied, I appealed to the DA. The DA upheld my appeal and in less than one day I was provided with the other two years of data.
As it turns out, County officials’ claims of how much it costs to maintain the exterior of the GP Library branch building were inflated cost estimates. The real data showed that for the last three calendar years, County staff spent an average of 110 hours per year on work orders related to the exterior maintenance of this building. At an extremely generous rate of $125 per hour to include supplies, the County is only spending about $13,750 per year on average to maintain the exterior of this building. This is almost half of the $25,000 per year cost estimate cited during related library lease discussions in December 2024 and January 2025. And in my opinion, this is completely immaterial to the budget of Josephine County in total. Stay tuned as we continue to report the facts and speak truth to power. No amount of money, intimidation, or lawsuits will cause us to surrender our constitutional rights.
Fatal Crash Casts Shadow Over 85th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
By E. Ward
The 85th annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, one of the largest and most iconic motorcycle gatherings in the world, was marred by a series of accidents this year, resulting in one confirmed death and at least 17 reported injuries.
Held in the scenic Black Hills of South Dakota, the rally typically attracts hundreds of thousands of motorcyclists and enthusiasts from across the country. This year was no different, with thousands flocking to Sturgis for the multi-day event featuring scenic rides, live music, vendor showcases, and motorcycle competitions. However, despite the celebratory atmosphere, the event was punctuated by a number of crashes that required emergency response and medical attention.
According to the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, a fatal accident occurred during the rally, claiming the life of one participant. Details of the fatality, including the identity of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding the crash, have not yet been fully released pending notification of next of kin and further investigation.
In addition to the fatal incident, at least 17 individuals sustained injuries as a result of traffic-related accidents connected to the rally. These injuries ranged in severity, with some requiring hospitalization and others being treated on the scene. Several of the reported accidents involved collisions between motorcycles and other vehicles, while others were attributed to single-bike crashes caused by speeding, sharp turns, or roadway hazards.
Local and state law enforcement agen-
cies, including the South Dakota Highway Patrol, have maintained a heightened presence throughout the rally to help manage traffic, enforce safety regulations, and respond quickly to emergencies. Authorities have repeatedly reminded attendees to exercise caution while navigating the often-crowded roads, especially given the increased volume of both motorcycles and tourists in the area during the rally.
Despite the accidents, officials report that overall attendance and general con-
Tubi Emerges as a Powerhouse in Free Streaming, Redefining the AdSupported Model
By Leaf Barret
Amongst the crowded and costly chaos of modern streaming, where rising subscription fees and dwindling libraries have left viewers juggling platforms just to watch their favorite shows, one service is quietly rewriting the rules. Tubi, a Fox Corporation property, has carved out a distinct identity by doing something most competitors won’t—offering a massive collection of movies and TV shows completely free of charge. No credit card. No subscription. Just press play. The catch? A few commercial breaks sprinkled in, which, for many users, is a small price to pay for what’s arguably the widest and most varied content lineup available in the free streaming space.
Tubi operates on an ad-supported video-on-demand model, meaning viewers watch short commercial segments in exchange for unlimited access to content. There are no subscription tiers, no hidden fees, and no trials that expire into surprise charges. Users can start watching instantly, with optional account sign-ups that offer additional features like saved watchlists and personalized recommendations. The simplicity of this setup has helped the service grow significantly since its launch in 2014. As of mid-2025, Tubi has surpassed 100 million monthly active users worldwide.
The platform’s meteoric rise isn’t just about the price—it’s also about the content. Tubi now hosts one of the most extensive
streaming libraries available, including over 40,000 movies and shows spanning nearly every genre imaginable. From cult classics and indie films to big studio titles and international series, the variety is expansive. In fact, some recent analyses have revealed that Tubi's total number of titles even surpasses the offerings of major paid services like Netflix in certain regions. This has made the platform particularly attractive to viewers frustrated by shrinking libraries on platforms that continue to increase monthly fees.
Tubi’s content strategy draws from more than 250 partners, including major Hollywood studios, television networks, and independent distributors. Fox Corporation’s ownership has also strengthened its content backbone, enabling the platform to include exclusive offerings and live news programming in some markets. Unlike many of its competitors, Tubi is not heavily focused on producing original content, instead betting that quantity and variety will keep users engaged.
The key to Tubi’s business model is advertising. Viewers typically encounter two to six minutes of ads per hour—less than the ad load on traditional broadcast television. These commercial breaks are brief and strategically placed throughout programming, aiming to minimize disruption while generating revenue. For many users, this is a reasonable compromise, especially as subscription
fatigue continues to rise across the streaming market.
Tubi is widely available and pre-installed on many smart TV models. It is also accessible via mobile apps, streaming sticks like Roku and Fire TV, gaming consoles, and standard web browsers. This makes it easy for virtually anyone with an internet connection to access the platform without downloading or configuring anything complex.
From an economic perspective, Tubi is demonstrating the viability and scalability of the ad-supported streaming model. As households tighten entertainment budgets, and as younger generations become less inclined to commit to multiple monthly payments, Tubi offers a clear alternative that doesn’t compromise on content selection. Its success highlights a larger shift in viewer behavior, as consumers become more willing to accept advertising in exchange for meaningful savings.
With continued investment from Fox, ongoing licensing partnerships, and a strategic focus on maintaining accessibility and variety, Tubi shows no signs of slowing down. In a crowded market where most platforms are scrambling to justify rising costs, Tubi’s no-cost, ad-supported model feels less like a compromise and more like a smart consumer choice. For viewers who can tolerate a few commercials, it may just be the most value-packed streaming option available today.
duct at this year’s rally have been consistent with past years. However, the incidents have once again raised discussions about motorcycle safety, helmet use, and the risks associated with large-scale motorcycling events.
Medical teams, fire departments, and volunteer responders were stationed throughout key locations to provide support in case of emergencies, a preparedness measure that helped reduce response times in several of the incidents reported over the course of the rally.
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is a major economic driver for the region, bringing in millions of dollars annually through tourism, lodging, and local commerce. While it remains a cherished tradition for many motorcyclists nationwide, the event’s high volume of traffic and increased risk of accidents remain ongoing concerns for public safety officials.
As investigations continue into the exact causes of the accidents, authorities are urging all attendees and riders in future events to prioritize safety gear, obey traffic laws, and avoid dangerous maneuvers that could lead to further injury or loss of life.
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POLITICS
Clintons Subpoenaed in Congressional Probe Tied to Epstein Investigation
By C. Power
Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton have been formally subpoenaed by the U.S. House Oversight Committee as part of an ongoing congressional investigation into the late Jeffrey Epstein and his associations with powerful individuals. The subpoenas are part of a broader Republican-led inquiry into the scope and potential failures of the Department of Justice's handling of Epstein’s criminal network, particularly his history of sex trafficking and alleged protection by influential figures.
The subpoenas, issued by the GOP-controlled committee, request sworn depositions from both Clintons, as well as access to Justice Department files related to its years-long probe into Epstein's activities and associates. This marks the latest development in a renewed effort by lawmakers to scrutinize how Epstein operated for decades, often within elite political and social circles, with minimal legal consequence until his arrest in 2019 and subsequent death in
federal custody later that year.
While the former president has previously acknowledged flying on Epstein’s private jet on several occasions, he has denied any knowledge of Epstein’s criminal conduct. Hillary Clinton, who served as U.S. Senator and Secretary of State during the years Epstein’s behavior allegedly continued unchecked, has not been previously tied to any of Epstein’s criminal accusations. However, the committee’s interest in both Clintons appears rooted in examining the full extent of Ep stein’s social and political ties and wheth er any government officials or institutions helped shield him from accountability.
The Oversight Committee’s inquiry fol lows mounting public and political pres sure to uncover what many perceive as un answered questions surrounding Epstein’s connections to wealthy and powerful fig ures. Epstein, a convicted sex offender, was facing additional federal charges in 2019 when he died in a Manhattan jail in what was ruled a suicide. His death, and the subsequent collapse of the crimi nal trial, ended the opportunity for formal
courtroom testimony that could have implicated others involved in his network.
The committee’s investigation is also seeking internal communications, memos, and case files from the Department of Justice, including information about decisions not to pursue certain leads or prosecute particular individuals. Lawmakers have expressed concerns that critical details about Epstein’s ties to politicians, business leaders, and global influencers were either overlooked or intentionally buried by prior investigations.
Although the subpoena of two of the most prominent political figures in modern American history is certain to generate controversy, committee members argue that transparency and accountability
are essential, regardless of political affiliation or public stature. The Clintons have not yet publicly responded to the subpoena.
As the investigation moves forward, the House Oversight Committee is expected to call additional witnesses and continue examining Epstein’s financial records, travel logs, and correspondence. The probe aims to determine not only who may have been involved in his crimes, but also how such a sprawling operation persisted for so long under the radar of multiple law enforcement agencies and administrations. Whether the investigation yields new revelations or remains mired in political contention remains to be seen.
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COMMUNITY
4TheKids Livestock Auction Breaks Records with
$945K
Total, Reinforcing Community and Youth Agriculture
The 2025 4TheKids Livestock Auction delivered a record-breaking year, surpassing all expectations with a grand total of $945,000. Hosted by the Grants Pass Active Club at the Josephine County Fairgrounds, the annual event brought together youth agricultural exhibitors, local buyers, nonprofit organizations, and a dedicated volunteer base to celebrate the values of hard work, community, and generosity.
A total of 214 animals were sold during this year’s auction, tipping the scales at over 91,300 pounds. These animals, raised by local youth participating in local programs, represented months of training, feeding, and preparation. For many of the young participants, the auction serves as the culmination of a year’s worth of learning not just about animal husbandry, but also about business, budgeting, and personal responsibility.
One of the most impactful outcomes of the auction was the substantial donation of meat to local organizations. Over 14,730 pounds of meat were distributed to food programs and charitable causes throughout the region, reinforcing the auction’s role not only as a youth development event but also as a vital contributor to local food security efforts.
The 2025 auction also saw an impressive surge in financial support beyond the initial sales. More than $147,000 came in the form of add-ons—additional donations
from local businesses, families, and supporters who chose to boost the earnings of youth participants. Add-ons have become a tradition at the auction, enabling buyers and donors to show support without having to purchase livestock directly. These contributions helped push this year’s total well past the $861,803 mark recorded in 2024.
With all recorded transactions tallied, organizers confirmed the final fundraising total reached $945,000—a new high for the 4TheKids Livestock Auction. This achievement reflects not only the growing enthusiasm for youth agricultural programs in Josephine County but also the steadfast community support that continues to grow year after year.
The success of the event was the result of combined efforts from a wide range of contributors. From the students who raised the animals to the buyers who bid generously, and from the auctioneers and fairground staff to the volunteers and vendors who ensured everything ran smoothly, the auction once again demonstrated how impactful a united community can be.
As organizers begin preparing for next year’s event, the 2025 auction will be remembered not only for its impressive numbers but for the spirit behind them. It showcased the best of what local youth, agriculture, and civic engagement can achieve together—and set a new bar for what’s possible when a community invests in its future.
GRANTS PASS WEATHER
5 DAY OUTLOOK
SOURCE: WEATHER.COM
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
Partly cloudy 89/56
FRIDAY
Mostly sunny 94/60
SATURDAY
Mostly sunny 97/64 Mostly sunny 88/61
SUNDAY
Mostly sunny and hot 105/68
Back to School Countdown Begins in Grants Pass as Summer Winds Down
By Ellen Ward
As the summer sun continues to blaze across Josephine County, the reality is beginning to set in for parents and students alike: back-to-school season is already here. Despite the calendar still signaling summer, the first days of the 2025–2026 school year are just around the corner for students in Grants Pass School District 7. Families now find themselves juggling the final days of vacation with preparation for the school year ahead, and the familiar scramble for supplies, clothing, and schedules has begun.
According to the district’s official calendar, sixth-grade students will return to classrooms on Tuesday, August 26. Seventh and eighth graders follow on Wednesday, August 27, and students at Grants Pass High School will also start their year on August 26. While elementary school start dates were not included in this update, the overall message is clear: it’s time to get organized.
Stores across Grants Pass have already transitioned into back-to-school mode. Retailers like Walmart have stocked up on school supplies, offering early discounts on everything from spiral notebooks and three-ring binders to pencils, crayons, and lunchboxes. Many parents are seizing the opportunity to avoid the last-minute rush that tends to hit just before school resumes. While some families prefer to wait
for official supply lists from teachers, others are opting to buy commonly needed items early while shelves are full and prices are manageable.
In addition to supplies, the annual tradition of shopping for school clothes is in full swing. For many families, this is one of the most challenging aspects of school preparation. Children often experience growth spurts during the summer, leaving last year’s wardrobes obsolete. The hunt for affordable, well-fitting clothes and shoes can become a time-consuming and expensive endeavor. Parents must also consider items required for gym classes, changing weather
conditions, and footwear sturdy enough to last through the fall.
Back-to-school readiness also includes medical and logistical concerns. Appointments for dental checkups, physicals, and immunizations are filling up quickly as families rush to ensure students meet school health requirements. Vaccinations that may have been delayed during the summer should be updated before the first day. Pediatricians throughout the county report that August is among their busiest times of the year.
Beyond the physical preparations, families are encouraged to begin adjusting their
daily routines. Sleep schedules in particular are a common challenge. Students who have grown accustomed to staying up late and sleeping in during summer break may struggle with the abrupt change that early school mornings demand. Experts advise gradually shifting bedtimes and wake-up times in the weeks leading up to the first day to ease the transition and reduce the risk of overtired, anxious students during the first week back.
Transportation planning is also crucial. Whether students take the bus, walk, or get dropped off by parents, families should review routes, schedules, and safety procedures ahead of time. District officials typically update bus schedules and school traffic guidance in early August to account for any changes in enrollment or construction near campuses. With just weeks remaining before schools reopen, Grants Pass families are urged to take action now to avoid the stress and rush that often accompanies the final days of summer. From supplies and shoes to doctor visits and daily routines, the sooner families begin preparing, the smoother the transition will be for students. The start of a new school year brings excitement, nerves, and new opportunities. A bit of planning now can help ensure a successful launch into the academic year ahead.
TAKE A BREAK
Posting Date August 4, 2025
Posting August 4, 2025
GRANTS PASS TRIBUNE
Relentless Heroes to Host 12th Annual Devastational Golf Tournament in Grants Pass
By John Oliver
Grants Pass will once again play host to one of Southern Oregon’s most meaningful fundraising events as Relentless Heroes, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans, prepares for its 12th Annual Devastational Golf Tournament. The tournament is scheduled for Friday, September 20, 2025, at the Grants Pass Golf Club and will feature a full day of golf, community camaraderie, and charitable giving, with all proceeds directed toward local veterans in need.
Relentless Heroes, based in Grants Pass, was founded with the mission of assisting veterans when other programs or benefits fall short or fail to provide timely support. Over the years, the organization has become a staple in the community for its creative and hands-on approach to giving back, including hosting sporting events, providing holiday meals at local veteran centers, and offering emergency financial aid to veterans in crisis. Their success has been built on generous donations from sponsors and participants alike, as well as a commitment to make a difference where it’s needed most.
Letter from the Editor
This year’s golf tournament, the nonprofit’s primary fundraising event, will be a twoman scramble format with a shotgun start at 9:00 a.m. Participants will enjoy 18 holes with a cart, access to the driving range, and entry into various contests throughout the day. Registration is set at $250 per team. In
addition to the tournament, there will be a raffle, silent auction, prizes, and games—all designed to raise further funds for the organization’s veteran outreach programs. Sponsorship opportunities are available at multiple levels, ranging from $750 for basic course signage to $4,000 for full tourna-
ment sponsorship, which includes recognition across all event platforms, Relentless Heroes apparel, and four player entries. Each sponsorship tier offers increasing benefits and visibility for local businesses or individuals wishing to support a worthy cause while gaining community exposure.
Organizers Eric Hennings, Chris Hennings, and Joe Krull have expressed their hope that this year’s tournament will surpass previous years in participation and support. As demand for veteran assistance continues to grow, the need for reliable funding sources becomes even more critical. Relentless Heroes is calling on the community to step up and join in their mission of serving “Every Veteran, Every Day.”
Those interested in participating, sponsoring, or donating to the cause can reach out directly to the organizers or visit the group’s website at www.relentlessheroes. org. With the support of community members and local businesses, the 12th Annual Devastational Golf Tournament promises not just a day of sport and social connection, but a lasting impact on the lives of Southern Oregon’s veterans.
Concern from Local Citizen Sparks Debate: Why Transparency Matters in Local Government
At the Grants Pass Tribune, we take our role as a community newspaper seriously—and we take our readers even more seriously. This week, we received emails and saw public posts from several concerned residents who are asking for transparency and accountability in local government. These concerns revolve around the recent Grants Pass City Council workshop and the homelessness grant process currently under review.
It’s not every day we see this level of civic engagement, and we thank residents for not only voicing their concerns publicly but also taking the time to include us in their outreach. One email in particular—from Toni Webb—stood out for its clarity, urgency, and call for accountability. While much of this discourse unfolded on social media, including posts by other involved citizens, Webb’s email reinforced the importance of ensuring these concerns reach beyond Facebook and into the hands of residents who may not be online. This is how community journalism works at its best—by serving as a bridge between public institutions and the people they serve.
Here’s what we know.
During a recent Council workshop, Councilor Indra Nicholas questioned the lack of transparency in the homelessness grant selection process. Under the City’s current Request for Proposals (RFP), which was issued June 19, 2025, a review pan-
el evaluates and scores each submission. However, only the highest-scoring applicant is presented to the City Council for consideration. The scores, names, and evaluations of other applicants are withheld from Council members until after the final award is made and becomes public record.
This “top-scorer-only” model has raised eyebrows, especially when compared to prior grant programs in Grants Pass—like the Tourism Promotion Grant and ARPA Affordable Housing funds—which provided broader insight to Council and the public by sharing information about multiple finalists. Although not required by past RFPs, that added transparency helped foster community trust and allowed for more robust discussions at the Council level.
The current RFP process does allow Council the authority to accept, reject, or request modifications to the recommendation, and Council members may still ask for anonymized score breakdowns or additional context. Public records laws also ensure that scoring data will eventually be made available after the final decision. But the concern being raised by residents is about the lack of proactive transparency—especially when the City is preparing to award up to $1.2 million in taxpayer funds to a single entity.
Critics have pointed out that Council is being asked to make a high-stakes deci-
sion with limited information, and that this “blindfolded” process leaves little room for public trust or meaningful debate. Questions have also been raised about the absence of background checks for applicants, a step that other Oregon cities reportedly include in their processes.
The broader issue here isn’t just about one grant or one meeting. It’s about the importance of visibility, due diligence, and open government. When residents speak up and demand better oversight, it’s a sign that democracy is alive and well. It’s also a reminder that procedures, while legal,
aren’t always aligned with what’s right—or what’s expected from an engaged community.
To those who reached out to us: thank you. To the rest of our readers: we encourage you to do the same. Ask questions. Attend meetings. Request documents. Hold your public officials accountable—not because they’re doing something wrong, but because transparency is the foundation of public trust.
We are here to listen, to report, and to reflect the voice of our community. Keep talking. We’re listening.
