Good morning, Medford.

Ferment & Fire closed temporarily after selling over 400 pizzas instead of the planned 250 during its busy opening weekend — the owners are fixing technical issues, retraining staff, and refining recipes before reopening Saturday.

In Ashland, 29-year-old Devonte Bell Mader was indicted by a Jackson County grand jury after he allegedly fired shots near Interstate 5 early Saturday morning—he faces charges including attempted murder, attempted assault, and criminal mischief—and he is currently held on $1 million bail.

Britt Music and Arts Festival is offering $25 tickets for local firefighters to thank them for their service during wildfire season.

Eligible fire personnel may purchase up to four tickets per show, with concerts by Dirtwire on July 25 at 7:30 p.m., Dispatch on July 29 at 7:30 p.m., and Taj Mahal and Steve Earle on July 31 at 7:00 p.m., at Britt's main office on Main Street using a valid fire service ID.

With fire season rising, local residents can check their wildfire evacuation codes by using protect.genasys.com as the Wards Creek Restoration Initiative and Jackson County Emergency Management team up to provide the service.

Governor Kotek announced today a special legislative session on Aug.

29 to secure funds for public transit, road repairs and highway improvements after a failed $11 billion bill left ODOT with over 400 layoffs—she proposed increasing the gas tax and other fees to help bridge the gap. Some lawmakers supported the session while others criticized it as another large tax hike with limited transparency—lawmakers like Representative Wallan voiced concerns over the necessity of the session.

At a meeting Wednesday, the Rogue Valley Transportation District Board of Directors approved cuts to bus routes and service hours that will take effect on September 2nd—suspending routes such as the Medford Ashland Express and modifying others for West Medford while running Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. RVTD General Manager Julie Brown said the changes will address a projected $10 million deficit and maintain service for about 80% of riders.

NBC5 highlights a suicide prevention initiative in Medford that features the WATCH Suicide Prevention course led by mental health architect Kristin Fettig, who teaches how to spot warning signs (such as withdrawal and mood changes) and approach those in need with empathy.

Local residents, including participants like Steve Roe, said the course helps prepare them to support loved ones and encourage timely intervention.

Free Music and Wine Series Featuring Chasing Keridwyn

6-8 p.m. — RoxyAnn Winery — Free entry — Relax with award-winning wines and live music on a lovely summer evening.

Ambrose & Galfano Performance

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Walkabout Brewing Co. — Check local listings for cost — Experience the harmonious fusion of two talented musicians at this lively event.

Brothers Osborne Concert

7:30 p.m. — Britt Pavilion — Tickets available — Enjoy live country music from the talented duo Brothers Osborne.

Paranormal Cirque 2

7:30 p.m. — Rogue Valley Mall — Ticket prices vary — Experience a thrilling and chilling circus fusion of acrobatics, illusion, and the paranormal.

Tarzan - The Musical

3:00-4:30 p.m. — Craterian Theater at The Collier Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the thrilling adventure of Tarzan live on stage in Medford.

Tarzan - The Musical

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Craterian Theater at The Collier Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy the thrilling tale of Tarzan brought to life on stage in Medford.

Music and Wine Series Featuring Robbie DaCosta

6-8 p.m. — RoxyAnn Winery — Free entry — Enjoy live dance-worthy music paired with award-winning wines at this lively event.

Tarzan - The Musical

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Craterian Theater at The Collier Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the adventure of Tarzan brought to life on stage in Medford.

Rainbow Kitten Surprise Concert

7:30 p.m. — Britt Pavilion — Ticket prices vary — Experience the unique sound of Rainbow Kitten Surprise in an intimate outdoor setting.

Hummingbird Estates Comedy Night

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Hummingbird Estate — $33.85 — Enjoy an evening of laughs with Carl Lee, D.J Kamoflage, and Lynette Manning bringing the comedy.