JOHN DAY — Blue Mountain Hospital has announced Grant County’s first baby of 2024.

Austin McAllister came into the world at 9:10 p.m. on Jan. 5, hospital officials said.

Austin is the son of Tanner and Kelsey McAllister, of Prairie City. He weighed 7 pounds, 1 ounce and measured 20 inches at birth.

In the tradition of New Year’s babies, the hospital presented the McAllisters with a basket filled with presents and gift certificates.

The basket contained items donated by Chester’s Market, Duke Warner Realty, the Grant County Fairgrounds, Rally Networks, Oregon Trail Electric Co-op, Madden Realty, the Blue Mountain Hospital Auxiliary, Yellow Sage Photography and A Flower Shop & More.