Klamath Life December 2016

Klamath Life H e r a l d a n d N e w s ❘ D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 6 ❘ w w w. h e r a l d a n d n e w s . c o m ❘ $ 4 . 9 5

In Season

Fast friends

Klamath Animal Shelter volunteers unleash love

It’s snow time!

Klamath Snowflake Festival thrives on tradition

On ice

Mountain lakes lure local anglers REGIONAL MAGAZINE FOR KLAMATH, LAKE, MODOC AND SISKIYOU COUNTIES

2 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

In Season On the cover: Volunteer Elaine Deutschman sits on a bench petting pit bull mix “Funny Face” at the Klamath Animal Shelter’s Klamath Freedom Dog Park. A corps of volunteers help socialize and care for the local shelter’s animals.

Story on page 24.

Cover photo by Kevin N. Hume

Inside:

T

17

4

21

is the season to celebrate the season.

This edition of Klamath Life is the perfect complement to boosting one’s holiday spirit. We have a wealth of local content, all written by former and current Herald and News staff, that is sure to entertain and perhaps give one a new perspective on marking the holidays in the Basin.

Of note, is an informative piece on ice fishing for this time of year, written by our outdoors columnist Luke Ovgard. It isn’t necessary to hunker down and stay indoors all winter, when there are so many lakes in our region that afford good ice-fishing. Done right, it’s a perfect way to wile away the hours and pull in dinner to boot.

Another fun event to take in are the sled dog races in Chemult. Writer Samantha Tipler takes us along for a look at the event and local trainer Liz Parrish. It makes for a great spectator sport and another unique way to spend a wintry afternoon, with barking, dog biscuits and cocoa.

The highlight of the season is, of course, the nearly month-long Snowflake Festival. There will be lots of chances to sit with Santa and explore some of the fine businesses around town. With the theme of “It’s Snow Much Fun,” the festival runs Nov. 26 to Dec. 11 and consists of 46 events, 27 of which include Santa. It culminates with the annual Snowflake Parade, one of the longest in the state. Our reporter Johanna Bernhard gives us the inside scoop.

If the great outdoors is not your cup of tea, try out a new Christmas cookie recipe. The H&N’s Lee Beach has some flavorful insights on baking these holiday delights.

Destinations ◗ Sledding lessons:

Musher learns life lessons from sled dogs. Page 4 ◗ When the ice is nice: Ice fishing offers a new lure for some. Page 10 There is also entertainment indoors. Reporter Kurt Liedtke looks in on some “old fashioned” video games that will harken back to the early days of yore. The Klamath County Library hosts “games of yesteryear,” a monthly adult retro-gaming night. It’s become quite an attraction for those who long for the simpler times of Ms. Pac-Man and Asteroids.

A good reader in this edition includes an interview with local Doug Brown under our Quintessentials column. He’s a big promoter of Klamath Falls. See why what he does is so important to growing our community.

And while the sled dogs seem to have the limelight, reporter Stephen Floyd takes a look at the Klamath Animal Shelter which is stocked with dogs, cats, rabbits, goats and even horses. One lucky pet may wind up under the Christmas tree after reading this feature.

No season is complete without holiday music. Kurt Liedtke profiles the Klamath Symphony Orchestra that sports nearly 40 musicians. Read why the musicians love to volunteer their time playing for the community.

So enjoy!

Gerry O’Brien, H&N Editor

Community ◗ Sweet music:

Symphony musicians share a mutual passion. Page 12

◗ Nostalgic competition:

Library’s gaming night a sentimental journey. Page 15

◗ Celebrating snow:

A Basin staple, the Snowflake Festival returns. Page 17

◗ Two Rivers Gallery:

Creativity and community thrive at Chiloquin gallery. Page 21

◗ For our furry friends

Volunteers make a difference at animal shelter. Page 24

Cuisine ◗ Holiday spirit:

Fill up your cookie jar with Christmas tradition. Page 27 ◗ Rise & Shine:

A popover perfection for holiday brunch. Page 32

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4 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

Dogs. Racing. Trust.

Local musher develops deep relationship with dogs through Iditarod and beyond

In 2008, Liz Parrish ran her team

of sled dogs heading into Nome, Alaska. She was finishing the last mile of the Iditarod race, the ultimate challenge in dog sledding.

When teams reach the last mile, race officials sound a tsunami siren so the spectators can line the streets and cheer the mushers and teams into the finish line.

“We were going along, and I heard the tsunami siren, and I just lost it. I just, I am crying, telling the dogs, ‘That one’s for you guys. It’s for you,’” she said. “I knew we would never be in that place again.

Me and the team. We had something really, really special.”

See TRUST, page 5

By SAMANTHA TIPLER: For the Herald and News

Home run: Liz Parrish ran the Iditarod in 2008, just before her 50th birthday. She still runs distance dogs, though says she’d rather run at her home near Crater Lake than make the trek to Alaska again.

Photos by Samantha Tipler

5 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

HOME MUSH: CHEMULT SLED DOG RACES Each winter (when there is enough snow) Chemult hosts the annual Chemult Sled Dog Races.

The small town hosts premier races in northern Klamath County. People come to race from Oregon, Idaho, Washington and California.

“Over the years, mushers from as far away as Arizona, Michigan and British Columbia have made the trek to compete at one of Oregon’s best kept secrets: the trail system on the Fremont Winema National Forest beginning at the Walt Haring Sno-Park,” the event’s website says. “The competition is nondiscriminatory; men and women both contend for a top finish in every class, teenagers race against 60 year olds.”

Musher Liz Parrish describes it as a great spectator event.

“You can walk along and watch the teams start and finish,” Parrish said. “Walk along the trail and see much of the sprint races.”

Parrish ran the Iditarod in 2008 and mostly runs endurance races, while Chemult hosts sprint races and a middle distance with a 14-mile-race.

The big difference between a sprint race like Chemult and a distance race like the Iditarod is the dogs.

“Really, it fundamentally boils down to the different types of dogs,” Parrish said.

“The sprint dogs look very different than the endurance dogs.”

People think endurance dogs are bigger, but that’s a misconception.

“People think sumo wrestler. But sumo wrestlers don’t run marathons,” Parris said.

“Think of a marathon runner. Wiry. No body fat. That type of thing.”

Sprint racing dogs look like human sprinters in a track-and-field competition.

“In the dogs’ case, they tend to have very light coats,” Parrish said. “The emphasis is totally on speed.”

“The real athletes are the dogs, of course,” the Chemult Sled Dog Races website states. “While a few teams remain true to the traditional Malamutes or Siberian Huskies, the majority of teams are comprised of a husky/hound mix, bred for speed, endurance and a pleasant temperament.

These dogs are ready to go! Their enthusiasm is infectious and undeniable; they are doing what they love to do.

‘I saw what a real sled dog could do, and I said, ‘Oh my gosh, what if I had a whole team of these?’ ‘ — Liz Parrish

Tuned in: When dogs are in working mode, they listen back to hear if musher Liz Parrish is giving them commands. Look closely to see the dogs’ turned-back ears.

Photo by Samantha Tipler

not going to be in that magical configuration again.”

That finish line marked the Ten years end of not only the 975-mile Ten years before, Parrish journey, but also a 10-year jourmade the decision to train a ney since Parrish took up the team from scratch and run the art of dog sledding.

Iditarod for her 50th birthday.

“In some ways I didn’t want “I did take it upon myself it to end,” she said. “And the to have this crazy wild-eyed dogs were so trail hardened dream that I was going to train they could have turned around my own team of sled dogs to and run back.” complete the Iditarod sled But it was not the end of her dog race,” Parrish said. “It was a work with dogs. In the Iditarod 10-year odyssey for me.” and her years of training, she She grew up with dogs developed deep relationships – most notably a miniature with her dogs. She trusted dachshund – but her first them and they trusted her. working dog was Jake, an Now she coaches people and Australian shepherd. Jake their dogs on how to develop performed agility and played such a relationship. flyball, but he needed an off “The level of trust. I talk to season job. So she took up my students a lot about presskijoring, when a dog pulls a ence. To me that’s the essence, person on skis. From there she the fundamental building got Briar, her first husky. block of building a partnership “I saw what a real sled dog with your dog, is developing could do, and I said, ‘Oh my presence,” she said, recalling gosh, what if I had a whole sledding into Nome and finishteam of these?’” she said. ing what’s known as the Last See TRUST, page 6 Great Race. “I knew we were

TRUST, from page 4

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TRUST, from page 5 In 2001, she moved from the Bay Area to Crystalwood Lodge, located between Rocky Point and Crater Lake. The pet-friendly inn became her training ground and eventually a home for her leadership and life coaching businesses, Be the Lead Dog, and Life … Through Dogs.

At Crystalwood Lodge, she built up to a full team of dogs by the summer of 2002. The meadows around the lodge provided plenty of snow, and to get anywhere else she and the dogs had to climb into the foothills of the Cascades.

“My dogs know how to climb,” she said. “Mountains don’t scare them at all.”

In 2004 she started traveling seasonally to Minnesota for the hard-core training for the Iditarod. There a mentor musher and musher community helped her gain the expertise and experience to get ready for the big race.

The big race Through seasons of training, she learned how to deal with the cold and sleep deprivation of the 14-day race.

“Driving a sled is a very active activity. It’s not passive.

You’re not just standing there, gliding down the trail. It doesn’t work like that. You’re very active. You’re constantly steering. You’re constantly watching the dogs. Looking at the trail, anticipating what’s coming,” she said. “You’re active mentally, you’re active physically, I find it pretty easy to stay engaged and stay warm when I’m driving on sled.”

Much of the first part of the race was very like sledding in Oregon, she said, because Alaska was unseasonably warm at 25 degrees in March 2008. But as the race went on, they experienced more and more new challenges.

One of those singular experiences was running on the Yukon River.

“We’d run on smaller rivers in Alaska, but, boy, talk about feeling like a speck. It’s over a mile wide. And you are just tiny, nothing,” she said. “As we went on, and my dogs, each of these new conditions, new experiences for them, they just took it in stride.”

Early on in the race she was injured – a hematoma from a snow hook – but she never thought about quitting or dropping any dogs to ease her own workload. So when she needed the dogs to carry on, they knew their job: to follow the trail and keep going.

“I was incredibly proud of them,” Parrish said. “That’s that symbiosis that is so special about doing something with your dogs, accomplishing a goal together.”

Together “The dogs have a presence, they have an energy. They have taught me how to develop that as well. It’s just an incredibly intimate feeling. They’ve seen me at my worst, they’ve seen me at my best and visa -versa. Because of that, because of all we’ve been through together, we just implicitly trust each other.

“One of the things the dogs taught me was I can have an Iditarod experience right here in my front meadow,” she said. “I don’t have to go to Alaska to do that.”

See TRUST, page 9

7 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

‘My goal would be every dog owner in the world has the kind of relationship that I have with my dogs. I think that would put all the rescues and the shelters out of business.

Because people wouldn’t want to give that up.’

— Liz Parrish

Practice, practice, practice together: Liz Parrish harness up Moto for an afternoon run through the woods on a wheeled cart in November. Parrish runs her dogs at her property near Crater Lake, the Crystalwood Lodge.

Photo by Samantha Tipler

Mush mouth: Common mushing terminology ATV: All-terrain vehicle Big Su: Refers to the Big Susitna River Booties: A type of sock that is made to protect the dog’s feet from small cuts and sores. These are made out of various materials, i.e., denim, polar fleece, trigger cloth, etc.

Burled Arch: The finish line in Nome By-Pass Mail: Service provided by U.S. Mail system for remote villages to get mail and goods delivered. By-Pass Mail has been used to ship everything from toilet paper to refrigerators. Service only in Alaska provided by the U.S. mail System.

Come gee! Come haw! Commands for 180 degree turns in either direction Gee: Command for right turn Haw: Command for left turn Dog in basket: Tired or injured dog carried in the sled Double lead: Two dogs who lead the team side by side Dropped dog: A dog that the musher has dropped from his team at a checkpoint. The dog is cared for at the checkpoint until it is flown back to Anchorage to the musher’s handlers.

Heet: Alcohol-based fuel used by mushers in their cook stoves on the trail.

Husky: Any northern type dog.

Last Frontier: Alaska’s state motto.

Alaska was the last frontier in the United States Lead dog or leader: Dog that runs in front of others. Generally must be both intelligent and fast.

Line out! Command to lead dog to pull the team out straight from the sled.

Used mostly while hooking dogs into team or unhooking them.

Mush! Hike! All Right! Let’s Go! Commands to start the team Neck line: Line that connects dog’s collar to tow line and between the two collars of a double lead.

Outside: Any place in the lower 48 states.

Overflow: When the ice gets so thick that the water has nowhere to go, it pushes up and over the ice. This overflow often gets a thin layer of ice when the temperature drops making it dangerous to cross.

Pacing: Leading a team with some sort of motorized vehicle that can set the ‘pace’ at a specific speed.

Pedaling: Pushing the sled with one foot while the other remains on the runner Picket line: A long chain with shorter

in y a l p e m Co

pieces of chain extending from it. Used to stake out a team when stakes aren’t available.

Rigging: Collection of lines to which dogs are attached. Includes tow line, tug lines and neck lines Rookie: A musher who is running the race for the first time or who has never completed the race.

Runners: The two bottom pieces of the sled which come in contact with the snow. They extend back of the basket for the driver to stand on. Runner bottoms are usually wood, covered with plastic or Teflon. This plastic or Teflon is usually replaced at least once during the race.

Siberian husky: Medium sized (average 50 pounds) northern breed of dog, recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Siberians usually have blue eyes.

Slats: Thin strips of wood which make up the bottom of a wooden sled basket.

Note: Toboggan sleds have a sheet of plastic as the bottom for their basket.

Snow hook or ice hook: Heavy piece of metal attached to sled by line. The snow hook is embedded in the snow to hold the team and sled for a short period of time.

Snub line: Rope attached to the sled which is used to tie the sled to a tree or

8 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season other object.

Stake: Metal or wooden post driven into the ground to which dog is tied Swing dog or dogs: Dog that runs directly behind the leader. Further identified as right or left swing depending on which side of the tow line he is positioned on. His job is to help “swing” the team in the turns or curves.

Team dog: Any dog other than those described above.

Termination dust: The first snow that covers the top of the mountain in the fall. So called because this is a sign of the termination of summer in Alaska.

Toggles: Small pieces of ivory used by Eskimos to fasten tug lines to harnesses Trail!: Request for right-of-way on the trail.

Tug line: Line that connects dog’s harness to the tow line.

Wheel dogs or wheelers: Dogs placed directly in front of the sled. Their job is to pull the sled out and around corners or trees.

Whoa!: Command used to halt the team, accompanied by heavy pressure on the brake.

Source: iditarod.com

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9 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

TRUST, from page 6 Parrish said she has no desire to run the Iditarod again. She still runs endurance races, including Oregon’s Eagle Cap Extreme in Joseph.

“It’s you and the dogs on the trail,” she said. “I like that.”

Through being alone on the trail, relying on one another, Parrish developed her trusting relationship with her dogs. For example, when she first started working with dogs, she was not very patient. But dogs taught her to be patient. There was no other way.

“They do something and I have two choices,” she said. “I can either get really frustrated, ‘Why don’t you get this!? I told you that 50 times!’ Or I can just laugh and say, ‘That’s pretty goofy. You think that’s going to work? It’s not going to work.’ They have taught me how to deal with things in a constructive fashion.

“I had a special, intimate relationship with my dogs,” Parrish said. “I wanted to share that with

Photos by Samantha Tipler

Work relationship: Liz Parrish believes people and dogs can form deep, trusting relationships and work together. She learned this through 10 years of dog sled training for her Iditarod run in 2008.

other people. I do believe it’s possible and I don’t believe you have to run the Iditarod to do that.”

With her businesses — Be the Lead Dog, and Life … Through Dogs — Parrish helps people develop themselves and their intimate

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relationship with their dogs.

“They’ve really taught me what presence means. How to be there for them. How to be in the moment. That’s one of their greatest gifts,” she said. “That’s how they can give this clear, nonjudgmental

feedback. They’re fully present.

They’re giving me feedback on what I’m doing every single instant.

How I’m living my life.”

Through developing their relationships with dogs, people have access to this feedback, an instant reflection of themselves.

Through that reflection, people can gain knowledge in how to improve themselves, just as Parrish improved her patience.

“My dogs have taken me places physically – of course, they’re sled dogs – but especially mentally and emotionally and spiritually, that I couldn’t go on my own. And so that’s the crux of what I am committed to sharing with people. My goal would be every dog owner in the world has the kind of relationship that I have with my dogs,” she said. “I think that would put all the rescues and the shelters out of business. Because people wouldn’t want to give that up. They’d want to take advantage of that and use it for self-development, broaden their own horizons, see what the possibilities are.”

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10 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

Tying on the winter line

By LUKE OVGARD H&N Sports Reporter

In the Great White North,

December is the time of year where the wait between football games is filled with a truly unique pastime: ice fishing.

Shanties, shacks, tents and trucks pile onto iced-over lakes to chase yellow perch, walleye, bluegill and northern pike.

Hot coffee, cold beer, tiny portable televisions and conversation keep anglers warm in between bites.

For those of us in Oregon, it seems like a pipe dream.

While our ice fishing season is much shorter than it is farther north, there is hope.

In that miserable stretch of cold winter days, November through February, anglers can still live their passion — if they pay attention.

Where?

There are several lakes that ice over during the cold Klamath Basin winters, but many are inaccessible due to snowed-in roads, regulations closing them to fishing or the ice not getting thick enough to walk on.

See ICE, page 11

Ice capped mountain lakes offer a variety of local ice fishing opportunities

Schooling: Students in an Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife ice fishing workshop try their luck at Lake of the Woods in March.

Photo courtesy of Lake of the Woods Resort

11 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

Lake of the Woods is one of the most biodiverse lakes in Oregon, with nearly a dozen species present, despite its small size.

ICE, from page 10 Ice fishermen typically focus on three lakes in and around Klamath Falls: Lake of the Woods, Medicine Lake and Fourmile Lake.

When?

Timing is everything. Go too early, and the lake will be iced over but not thick enough to walk on. This is highly unsafe.

Step a foot or two from shore to test ice thickness. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources recommends waiting until ice is at least 4 inches thick before venturing out onto it.

Of course, for very thin ice (less than 1 inch thick), anglers can always try to break up the ice with rocks from shore or from a small boat, but I have tried this numerous times, and every attempt has ended regrettably.

How? Water temperatures are crucial to all winter fishing. The metabolism of most species drops drastically during cold weather, severely limiting feeding habits.

Fortunately, ice insulates the lake. A frozen lake is usually several degrees warmer than a lake or river that doesn’t ice over, stimulating feeding activity and making fish just a little more catchable.

Regardless of the species, ice fishing typically involves small bait and a lot of scent. Worms, scent-infused “troutmallows,” minnows and waxworms are favorite baits that can catch trout, kokanee, yellow perch, bluegill, bullhead catfish and even the odd bass.

Small curlytail or tube jigs and jigging spoons can all be effective for igloo fish.

What?

At Medicine Lake, anglers can expect to catch hatchery rainbow trout and brook trout.

If the snowfall has been heavy, a snowmobile or four-wheel-drive vehicle is a must.

Lake of the Woods is one of the most biodiverse lakes in Oregon, with nearly a dozen species present, despite its small size.

Most anglers target kokanee and yellow perch when ice fishing, but black crappie, rainbow and brown trout, tui chub, mountain whitefish, brown bullhead and the occasional largemouth or smallmouth bass can also be tricked into taking the bait, though the last three are especially sensitive to cold water.

The roads to the Lake of the Woods Resort are typically plowed for easy access yearround.

Fourmile Lake is another lake that is typically snowed in quickly, but anglers can catch rainbow, brook and lake trout under the ice, as well as kokanee. Lakers aren’t found in many Oregon waters, and this is one of the rare moments where anglers can chase these fish without a boat.

To target lake trout, try larger jigging spoons or tubes in sizes intended for large bass.

Why? Ice fishing is a blast, for those who’ve never tried it.

My best ice fishing experience took place at Medicine Lake.

I used small tube jigs tipped with scented troutmallows and caught more than two dozen fish in half a day, all brook trout and rainbows. The fish are hungry, and you can occasionally trick fish that might be hard to catch in the summer. I landed two brookies over 1 ½ pounds that day, and I didn’t even catch the largest one that trip.

Give ice fishing a try. It just might surprise you.

lovgard@heraldandnews.com; @Luke Ovgard; Read more at caughtovgard.com.

 

Following state regulations

Medicine Lake: To fish Medicine Lake, anglers need a California angling license. Resident Sport Fishing licenses are $47.01 annually; Nonresident Sport Fishing annual license run $126.36; One-Day Sport Fishing Licenses (good for residents or nonresidents) run $15.12.

Live bait is legal in California, so long as the bait species is not threatened or endangered, any species of salamander, or a trout.

Anglers may keep five trout per day of any species, with an 8-inch minimum length. Certain waters in National Forest lands in California allow an additional five brook trout to be taken. Medicine Lake is one of these waters.

Lake of the Woods and Fourmile Lake: In both Lake of the Woods and Fourmile Lake, anglers will need a fishing license. Annual licenses run $38 for residents and $97.50 for nonresidents. A One Day license can be purchased for $19.

Anglers can keep five trout per day, regardless of species.

There is an 8-inch minimum length, and only one trout over 20 inches may be retained. Kokanee have a separate limit of 25 fish with no minimum length. There is no limit on yellow perch, black crappie or brown bullhead.



12 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

Keeping the upbeat: Steve Mitchell, conductor of the Klamath Symphony Orchestra, leads a practice session prior to the orchestra’s November concert at the Ross Ragland Theater.

Photo by Kurt Liedtke

KLAMATH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

MAKING SWEET MUSIC TOGETHER

T

here’s no compensation for their collective talents, other than applause and gratitude, for the community musicians comprising the Klamath Symphony Orchestra. The all-volunteer collective is an odd and eclectic mix of skill, experience and personality, providing a unique take on the traditionally strict concept of symphony orchestras.

An annual tradition extending back to at least the 1970s, the community orchestra is a ragtag group of talented musicians from all walks of life, gathering together each week to make sweet music. Totaling roughly 40 members, though the exact number fluctuates at times, the orchestra is an unusual mix of young talent and seasoned veterans. Students still in grade school with a knack for music perform prominently alongside adults who have been performing in the orchestra for decades, finding common ground and a strong bond through a mutual passion for

By KURT LIEDTKE: H&N Staff Reporter

music. Membership in the symphony is sometimes a matter of auditioning, sometimes simple referrals, or when there is a vacancy and need.

Every week, orchestra members gather at the Ross Ragland Theater to practice for two hours, with an added rehearsal the night before show time. The ongoing effort’s payoff is three concerts each year at the Ross Ragland Theater, preceded by a concert in the park on the final Saturday of August, and the occasional holidayrelated performance. Each concert follows a specific musical theme, ranging from traditional classical compositions to more symphonic spins on contemporary classics.

Leading the troupe is Steve Mitchell, diminutive in stature but big in heart, with a jovial laugh and upbeat persona that keeps the mood light.

See SYMPHONY, page 13

13 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

SYMPHONY, from page 12 Mitchell’s conducting style is contrary to the militaristic cliché of a strict, disciplinarian demanding precision. His sense of humor keeps the orchestra laughing consistently while getting the most out of each performer through a welcoming environment. Mitchell has been with the Klamath Symphony Orchestra since 2007, and began conducting the group in 2009.

“Some probably would like some more seriousness, but others I suppose enjoy a little informality,” laughed Mitchell. “It’s a balance that has to be found; we need to have enough discipline to have the music ready, but it’s also a group of volunteers giving their time so I do try to make it fun.”

Mitchell selects the music to be performed at each concert, which is rehearsed for eight practice sessions before each show, though he gladly accepts any suggestions to add to the set list. He enjoys the challenge of learning the music and working with musicians to master it, showcasing the final product to a loyal Klamath Falls audience at each performance.

“I suppose we have some notoriety, being in a small rural community being able to find that balance of music that will appeal to the audience yet is also challenging and satisfying

for some of the long-haired musicians in the band,” said Mitchell. “It’s a challenge, but also a lot of fun because we get to do a variety of things.”

Among the younger sect of performers is Derek Fleming, an 18-year-old recent graduate of Mazama High School who plans to enter the United States Marine Corps and aspires to become a military police officer. Fleming began playing trumpet in the sixth grade, but switched to French horn in high school, where he garnered enough attention to be invited to join the orchestra. He has performed with the Klamath Symphony Orchestra for four years.

In addition to the orchestra, Fleming also performs with a community band on Thursdays.

“I love being a part of the symphony,” explained Fleming. “The people here are so fun, and I get to play with a lot of senior players who have been playing their entire lives. Everyone is great and super fun to be around. It’s just a great experience.”

While Fleming eyes law enforcement as his future, forgoing an invitation to play for the Marine Corps band, he believes he will always find a way to perform music regardless of his day job. For his senior project at Mazama High School, Fleming conducted the high school band.

See SYMPHONY, page 14

Behind the baton:

Steve Mitchell Conductor Steve Mitchell has been a part of the Klamath Symphony Orchestra since 2007, taking over as conductor in 2009. Mitchell has a master’s degree in music education and worked as a music teacher in Monmouth and Dallas, Oregon in the 1970s and 1980s. A bassoonist, Mitchell performed in bands and orchestras over the years, and served as the associate conductor of the Salem Pops Orchestra and Keizer Community Band.

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14 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

Mixing it up: The Klamath Symphony Orchestra is an eclectic group of volunteer musicians, ranging from grade school children to seniors united in a love of music.

Far from a traditional orchestra, the orchestra performs familiar classical music with more contemporary songs, following specific themes for each concert.

H&N photo by Kurt Liedtke

BEHIND THE STAND

SYMPHONY, from page 13 Balancing regular life while moonlighting as a musician is a common theme for many of the orchestra’s members. This includes Deidre Crowell, an engineer by trade who has found time to perform with the symphony off and on for over 30 years. A violinist, it was in fourth grade when she caught the music bug after taking piano lessons. Ever since she began performing in school bands she has found time to play music. The Klamath Symphony Orchestra provides a great creative outlet.

She has been performing with the symphony since high school, back when it was known as the Klamath Youth Symphony.

“I never imagined a time that I wouldn’t be a musician in some way; from the time I started playing piano. I just got the bug,” explained Crowell. “Sometimes I bowed out because of life, but it’s always been here for me and I always loved coming back. There are a lot of people here with musical ability and passion, and this is where they can express it.”

Now a seasoned veteran of the orchestra, Crowell finds joy in not

only performing, but also in passing along her knowledge to the younger performers who have joined the fray.

“We have such a range, especially in the string, in ability and experience,” Fleming added. “It’s really nice to be able to bring those young students in and show them what it’s like to be in orchestra, what it’s like to play music with the big folks. I just think it’s really fun and it gives us an energy we wouldn’t otherwise have.”

Upbeat As for their upbeat conductor, both Fleming and Crowell were in agreement about the benefit of the lighthearted approach to practice and performances.

“There’s rarely a time when he’s not smiling, even when he’s giving us directions on things he wants us to fix, he’s still smiling,” said Crowell.

“It makes it a lot easier,” added Fleming. “Strict conductors can be hard to follow, but with Steve it’s easy to follow him, he’s great and funny and always knows what to do.”

The Klamath Symphony Orchestra’s first concert of the year, on Saturday, Nov. 5, followed a theme of “Fall Colors.” The show

blended classical renditions and offbeat selections for the evening showcase, including a singer joining the orchestra for several songs and familiar tunes from the “Wizard of Oz.” With their fall concert completed, the orchestra’s attention now shifts to concerts at the Ross Ragland Theater planned for Saturday, Feb. 11 and Saturday, April 29.

For those aspiring to join the orchestra, it takes merely contacting Mitchell or any member of the orchestra. Depending on openings and abilities it may necessitate an audition, or referrals are often welcomed aboard immediately.

“It is somewhat informal,” laughed Mitchell.

At its heart, the Klamath Symphony Orchestra is not only a community-supported volunteer entity providing music for the Basin, but an outlet for the region to grow and utilize its unique individual talents.

“The symphony is a place for musicians to grow,” said Mitchell.

“We want to have an audience that enjoys the music we play, and also the work of supporting music in the schools and students developing their skills so that can take on a lifelong evocation.”

‘The symphony is a place for musicians to grow.’

— Steve Mitchell, Klamath Symphony Orchestra conductor

Membership in the Klamath Symphony Orchestra tallies nearly 40 musicians.

Orchestra members range in age from middle school students up to seniors who have been performing with the group for decades. Participation is strictly volunteer, with daytime professions ranging from engineering to the medical field to music education.

The Klamath Symphony Orchestra practices every Tuesday for two hours in preparation for three concerts performed at the Ross Ragland Theater, and one concert in the park to kick off their season on the last Saturday of August.

Instruments used by the orchestra typically include drums, timpani, xylophone, piano, bass, cello, violin, viola, French horn, trumpet, trombone, tuba, flute and clarinet. Some members play multiple instruments during performances.

Each performance follows a specific theme with songs selected by conductor Steve Mitchell, though song suggestions from orchestra members often find their way into performances.

Video online: Watch the Klamath Symphony Orchestra practice for a concert in a video at heraldandnews.com

15 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

H&N photo by Kurt Liedtke

Game on: Klamath County Library Assistant Amy Payne and Max Wentz enjoy a round of Mario Kart on Nintendo64 at

the library’s monthly adult retro gaming night. The event is hosted every fourth Tuesday at 5:30 p.m., welcoming people to the library to socialize and play retro multiplayer games.

W

hile Nintendo, Sony and Microsoft battle to create the latest and greatest video games stocking store shelves for the holiday shopping rush, a contrarian global movement longing to reconnect to the games of the past has gathered momentum in recent years.

For those longing for a simpler era, the Klamath County Library offers the perfect opportunity for local gamers to revel in the games of yesteryear through a monthly adult retro gaming night.

The graphics may not be movie quality, the controllers may not provide real-time feedback with more buttons than an aircraft cockpit, but at its core — regardless of the era — a game’s value comes down to playability and fun. Since

A little nostalgic competition

Library offers gaming nights with a retro focus

By KURT LIEDTKE: H&N Staff Reporter

this spring, it has been the goal of Klamath County Library Assistant Amy Payne to utilize the video games of the past to provide a positive social scene for those seeking a nostalgic trip to the games of their youth.

The library’s retro gaming nights are for the most hard core gamer to the novice who hasn’t picked up a controller since childhood.

While participation varies monthto-month, Payne noted that on average as many as 15 to 20 people

attend to play games and reminisce about sentimental favorites from their youth.

“This was born out of a desire to reach people who may not normally use the library as often as our regular visitors,” explained Payne. “We’re trying to encourage more people to use library services and reach people across multiple platforms. Not everyone will utilize traditional resources of a library, but those who may not read for fun may instead be interested in games,

crafts, movies or music.”

Every fourth Tuesday of the month at 5:30 p.m., Payne connects her personal collection of retro video game consoles to a projector or HD television at the library, welcoming the public to come play.

People are encouraged to bring their own games and consoles, though Payne noted the sentimental favorite tends to be the N64 console with Mario Kart 64. She attributes this to 20-somethings being the majority of the draw to date, placing the N64’s late 1990s run right in the prime nostalgic range for adults wanting to reconnect to the games they played as kids.

Payne first found video games as a great way to generate a fun social setting to meet new people when she was in college at Michigan State University. At MSU, she organized communal gaming nights in the residence halls.

See GAMING, page 16

16 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

‘I don’t think people realize how much stuff there is to do in Klamath Falls. We try to be a hub for things to do providing positive social activities.’

– Amy Payne, Klamath County Library Assistant

Plug in and play at retro gaming night

Adult retro gaming nights are held on the fourth Tuesday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the Klamath County Library, located at 126 S. 3rd St. in Klamath Falls. Retro games and consoles will be provided, though people are encouraged to also bring their own. For more information contact Amy Payne at 541-882-8894.

GAMING, from page 15 Retro gaming’s popularity is far from a local phenomenon, as kids of the 1970s and 1980s are now adults seeking nostalgic treasures from their past. Thanks largely in part to YouTube, popular retrogaming channels garner millions of views, and large conventions celebrating retro games have become prevalent around the world. The desire to reconnect to the age of Atari and early Nintendo has grown so great that many new games are designed to mimic the look of retro games.

While the N64 has proven to be king of the retro gaming nights so far, other options include Super Nintendo, Playstation 2 and Nintendo Wii. Payne hopes at future game nights to delve into older consoles such as the Atari 2600, original Nintendo and Sega Genesis. Ideas have been brought up for specific gaming-era theme nights, such as an all-Atari game night, or a Tetris tournament in hopes of widening the appeal to older gamers.

The Klamath County Library is somewhat unique in its nontraditional offer-

T R ’ S O C HA P N E PE V A L D •

of the •

ings, which in addition to books also has available movies, music, comic books, video games, board games and Dungeons and Dragons manuals. The retro gaming nights are just one aspect of utilizing the library’s eclectic collection, with other recurring themed events including board game nights, arts and crafts events, writing workshops and more. In November, a general gaming theme included a Jeopardy night, Taboo tournament and a Harry Potter for adults event – which Payne dubbed “Hogwarts Graduate School” – providing craft classes to create “advanced potions.”

“I don’t think people realize how much stuff there is to do in Klamath Falls,” added Payne. “We try to be a hub for things to do providing positive social activities. Having a venue to socialize for those not into sports is important. Some libraries are reluctant to carry things like video games since it’s non-traditional, but the more broad scope we have, the wider the appeal. It makes me happy that we have made such an effort to provide a wide variety of materials.”

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17 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

A Celebration of Snow Tradition and history help Snowflake Festival thrive

By JOHANNA BERNHARD: H&N Staff Reporter

W

ith winter fast approaching, bringing with it dark mornings, cold winds and icy roads, it also brings the return of one of Klamath Falls’ winter staples: the Snowflake Festival.

Festival memories: A mother and son riding on the Teen Parent and Transition Programs’ float wave to the thousands of festive people who packed downtown Klamath Falls for the 2015 Snowflake Festival Parade.

H&N file photo by Kevin N. Hume

Since the beginning of the year, festival chief operating officer Jim Phillips and his team have been gearing up for one of the city’s annual highlights, which is the largest winter festival in Oregon.

This year’s themed festival, ‘It’s Snow Much Fun,’ runs from Nov. 26 to Dec. 11 and consists of 46 events, 27 of which include Santa.

“There is no reason why any child in Klamath Falls or the surrounding area won’t get to see Santa Claus,” Phillips said.

See SNOWFLAKE, page 18

Did you know ... ◗ In 1984 there was a celebrity Grand Marshal: Cheryl-Ann Wilson, who played Megan Hathaway on the long-running soap opera, “Days of Our Lives” ◗ Louis Taucher portrayed the festival’s Santa Claus for 28 years ◗ To avoid confusion for children watching the parade, there can only be one Santa in the parade and entrants are not permitted to have a Santa on their float. One year a float had Santa riding a motorcycle and the Chamber of Commerce received some angry phone calls from parents, says Heather Tramp from the Chamber of Commerce

18 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

SNOWFLAKE, from page 17

the city, including coloring and gingerbread house competitions, a tree lighting ceremony and an obligatory ugly sweater fun run.

For many, the focus of the festival is the snowflake parade that falls on Thursday, Dec. 8, however the festival offers so much more, Hantzmon said.

“There is something for everybody, day and night,” she said.

Phillips said he likes to work closely with the community, local businesses and nonprofits, to keep business within Klamath Falls help the town thrive. Through advertising, he hopes to attract more people from outside the county to join in the festivities.

Hantzmon says Phillips has “spearheaded” the format the festival is in now by keeping things local and working closely with nonprofits.

“In the monthly meetings, I’ve been saying all along, it takes a community to raise a festival, not just the parade or tree lighting ceremony,” Hantzmon said.

The annual festival was conceived during the winter of 1984 in a coffee shop in downtown Klamath Falls, according to documents from the Chamber of Commerce archives. As three friends discussed the various Christmas parades they had seen across the nation on TV, they wanted to create the same thing in Klamath Falls.

The idea was to turn the negativity of winter’s cold, dreary days into something positive, something for the people of Klamath Falls to get excited about, according to the archives. In an attempt to boost community spirits, patriotism and Christmas festivities, they sent about 50 letters to members of the community to see if anyone expressed similar interest and wanted to put the plan into motion.

They were in luck.

32 years and change Entering its 32nd year, the festival has since changed hands from the city of Klamath Falls and is now headed by Phillips, who took it over from the Chamber of Commerce three years ago. The committee also includes chairwoman Bernice Hantzmon, administrative assistant Nan Kirby and various board members.

The festival, hosted by the Non-Commissioned Officers Association, Local Club 85, became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization this year.

Over the years, the festival has grown from a week-long event to two weeks and has been nothing but successful, Phillips said.

This year kicks-off with a winter bazaar and the arrival of Santa, followed by an array of events all over

Benefitting children This year, the festival has 49 sponsors who each donated around $500. The money raised goes toward advertising to promote the festival and a portion is donated to a variety of nonprofits around town that help children, such as Shop With A Cop, Hantzmon said.

H&N file photos by Kevin N. Hume

Merry and Bright: Rudolf the red-nosed reindeer and Santa Claus greet people during the 2015 Snowflake Festival Parade in downtown Klamath Falls. Thousands lined Main Street to watch the annual parade.

The money raised from entry submissions for the parade goes to the NCOA, which, for the past 31 years, has delivered Christmas gifts to local veterans in nursing homes, Phillips said. Last year, the parade raised around $3,000.

See SNOWFLAKE, page 19

19 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

SNOWFLAKE, from page 18 Heather Tramp was on the Klamath Snowflake Festival committee in 2008.

During the five years she worked on the festival, she says the committee honored the armed forces, but not to the extent Phillips does now, which she admires.

In previous years, the festival would be advertised over the radio with a DJ reading the event schedule and list of sponsors in one minute. Phillips said the time limit was a constraint and the advertisement now directs listeners straight to the Klamath Snowflake Festival website, which Phillips is “relying on more than ever.”

This year is the first time a banner advertising the festival will hang across Main Street downtown, something Phillips and Hantzmon are excited about.

Phillips says his favorite part of the festival is the parade and the work the committee does for all the nonprofits in town.

“It still comes back to the kids and adults and making everyone happy and full of the holiday spirit, and that’s why

‘To see the beginning of the holiday season through the eyes of a child is pretty remarkable.’

— Bernice Hantzmon, Klamath Snowflake Festival chairwoman

Flying colors:

Parade participants carry a large American flag as thousands of festive people packed downtown Klamath Falls for the 2015 Snowflake Festival Parade.

H&N file photo

by Kevin N. Hume

Online: For more information about Snowflake Festival activities, visit klamathsnowflake. com and the festival’s Facebook page, or call 541-884-3505.

we continue to do it,” Phillips said.

Hantzmon is looking forward to Santa’s entrance at Kiger Stadium.

“I’m excited to see the wide eyes when Santa flies in and to see 200 kids

looking up,” Hantzmon said. “To see the beginning of the holiday season through the eyes of a child is pretty remarkable.” jbernhard@heraldandnews.com

Festival events: A calendar of Snowflake Festival events in available in this magazine on page 20, and will be updated at klamath snowflake.com.

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20 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

e k a fl Snoew l a v i t s F events 2016

The Klamath Falls Snowflake Festival is in full swing. It started in late November with Santa’s arrival, the tree lighting ceremony and more. Festival fun continues with these events, including the Snowflake Festival Parade down Main Street Thursday. For more information about the festival, visit klamathsnowflake.com or the festival’s Facebook page, or call 541884-3505. A ❄ marks events where Santa Claus will be present. ❄ Quota Club Christmas Bazaar, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4, in buildings 1 and 3 at the Klamath County Fairgrounds. Featured will be nearly 100 booths of handcrafted items. Santa will be available for photos from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday. This is a drop-off event for Toys for Tots donations.

Ugly Sweater Run, 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Dec. 3, Harbor Isles Golf Course, (pre-registration required). Included will be a free kids dash, doggie dress-up, selfie stations, holiday treats, prizes and more. Cost for the 5K Fun Run is $25. To register, call Jennie at 541-281-7212 or visit active.com. ❄ Visit Santa at Main Street Jewelers to benefit the Shop with a Cop program, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, 721 Main St. This is a drop-off event for Toys for Tots donations. ❄ Bowling with Santa at the Epicenter, 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, 3901 Brooke Drive. This is a drop-off event for Toys for Tots donations.

Royal Snowflake Princess Party, 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3 at the Epicenter Family Entertainment Complex, 3901 Brooke Drive. ❄ A Slice With Santa, 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 3, Crazy R Pizza, 6200 S. Sixth St. This is a drop-off event for Toys for

Tots donations.

Snowflake Festival Handbell Choir Concert, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, First Presbyterian Church, 601 Pine St. Christmas Cheer Weekend Dance (second night), 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, American Legion Club, 228 N. Eighth St. This is a drop-off event for Toys for Tots donations. ❄ The Santa Freeze, 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4 at the Ella Redkey Pool, 1805 Main St. This is a drop-off event for Toys for Tots donations.

Esquire Jazz Orchestra performance of “For Sentimental Reasons: A Tribute to the Swing Era,” 2 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 4, Ross Ragland Theater, 218 N. Seventh St. Tickets are $19, $23 and $29 each before transaction fees. ❄ Santa’s Christmas Cottage at the Running Y Ranch Resort Golf Shop, 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4, 5790 Cooper’s Hawk Road. Take photos with Santa, enjoy free cookies and hot cocoa and visit the resort’s candy cottage. This is a drop off event for Toys for Tots donations. ❄ Candy Cane Lane with Santa, a benefit for the Klamath & Lake Community Action Services Winter Give-A-Way in partnership with Pacific Power, 2 to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 5, 2300 Clairmont Drive. Holiday decorated stations with treats for children and a free photo with Santa. Please bring a nonperishable, transportable food item to donate for January’s Winter Give-A-Way. St. Nicholas Day Cookie Decorating, 10 a.m. to noon, Tuesday, Dec. 6, Children’s Museum of Klamath Falls, 711 E. Main St. ❄ Snowflake Festival Bake Sale for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, 2:30 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 6, Pacific Crest Federal Credit Union, 2972 Washburn Way. Christmas Tree Jubilee, 5 to 9 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 7, Running Y Ranch Resort Conference Center, Woodlands Ballroom.

The Jubilee is a fundraiser for Assistance League of Klamath Basin to support the group’s student assistance project, Operation School Bell. Tickets for the dinner/auction event are $50 each and available at klamathbasinassistanceleague.org, or by calling 541-883-1721. ❄ Photos With Santa, 5 to 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 7, Bedroom Gallery, 1204 Main St. This is a drop-off event for Toys for Tots donations.

Blue Zones Project Inspired Plant-based Potluck, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, Gaucho Collective, 1038 Main St. Reservations required, call 541-539-8053. This is a drop-off event for Toys for Tots donations.

Parade Night Cocoa Reception, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 8, Fisher Nicholson Realty, 403 Main St.

Snowflake Mile, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, run starts in front of the Klamath County Museum. Sign-up is required. For more information, contact Rob Coffman at 541-8834710 or coffman@kfalls.k12.or.us. ❄ Klamath Snowflake Festival Parade, 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, down Main Street in Klamath Falls with Grand Marshal Pat Bowlby. Applications to participate in the parade are available at klamathsnowflake. com. Deadline to submit parade applications is Monday, Dec. 5. ❄ Supper with Santa, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 9, Children’s Museum of Klamath Falls, 711 E. Main St. This is a drop-off event for Toys for Tots donations. ❄”I Believe,” 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, meet Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves and have holiday treats, Woodland Lighting and Winema Electric, 735 Commercial St. ❄ Lunch With Santa at the Chicken Shack, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 10, 3255 Washburn Way. This is a drop-off event for Toys for Tots donations.

Little Linkville: “The Self-Saving Princess,” 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, and 1 and 3 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 11, Linkville Playhouse, 201 Main St. Tickets are $2 each.

Living Nativity, 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 10 and 11, hosted by the Westside Community Church at Mountain Valley Gardens, 4800 Washburn Way. ❄ Hot Cocoa With Santa, 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 10 at Final Touch Interiors, 2003 E. Main St. This is a drop-off event for Toys for Tots donations.

Snowball Dance, 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, Aftershock at the Epicenter Family Entertainment Complex, 3901 Brooke Drive. ❄ Winter Wonderland, noon to 3 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 11, Running Y Ranch Resort Conference Center Woodlands Ballroom. Presented by Assistance League of the Klamath Basin, the event will include live entertainment, time to visit with Santa, complementary cookies and snacks, art centers for crafting and coloring, games and a holiday gift shop.

Free family event.

The Klamath Chorale presents “All is Merry & Bright” a Christmas concert, 2 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 11, Ross Ragland Theater, 218 N. Seventh St. Tickets are $15 each before transaction fees.

“Away In The Manger - A Musical Tribute to the Season,” 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 6630 Alva Ave. Gingerbread House Competition Awards Night with Santa, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 13 at the Klamath Basin Home Builders Association office, 205 Riverside Drive. Houses on display through Dec. 16.

21 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

T WO RIVER S GALLERY

For the love of Art & Artists

Creativity abounds at Chiloquin art gallery

By HOLLY DILLEMUTH: H&N Staff Reporter

Finding her passion: Two Rivers Gallery director and artist Judy Pate’s enthusiasm for art and people propelled her into a lead role at the gallery that she never would have imagined.

H&N photos by Kevin N. Hume

It’s easy to see the love Judy Pate has for art and the

artists behind each creation as she walks around Two Rivers Gallery, which she’s operated as director for the past six months in Chiloquin.

Pate rarely walks a few feet before pointing out a few facts about each artist behind the piece of jewelry or mounted painting at the gallery, of which there are approximately 55 artists who rotate their work approximately every three months.

“My goal is that everybody who walks through that door says, ‘Yeah, we’ve got to come in here,” Pate said. “There’s always something new.”

See GALLERY, page 22

22 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

GALLERY, from page 21 “It’s neat to be the director because I know all the stories,” she added.

From Juniper woodwork, to alcohol and ink tiles, to paintings and photography depicting local scenes and wildlife, the gallery has a little bit for everyone.

“Ninety-eight percent of them are local.

I can only think of one of them who is not, but her paintings fit in so well with our theme that I said, ‘Yes,’ ” Pate said.

The gallery is a bi-product of the Chiloquin Visions In Progress, a nonprofit that started in 1995.

“That is the exact thing that drew me to this in the first place,” Pate said.

“That was my heart. Before I knew it was directing the gallery as a volunteer.”

Overcoming obstacles Until 2015, Pate had been laid up for several years due to complications with an ankle that largely kept her from an active lifestyle.

She earned an online master’s degree in business while at the same time undergoing multiple surgeries and an ankle replacement.

See GALLERY, page 23

H&N photo by Kevin N. Hume

Natural eye: Alcohol and ink painted tiles by artist Glenda Monciardini, one of 55 artists who feature art in rotation at the gallery, are on display at the Two Rivers Gallery in downtown Chiloquin.

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From Juniper woodwork, to alcohol and ink tiles, to paintings and photography depicting local scenes and wildlife, the gallery has a little bit for everyone.

Individual & unique: Many forms of art on display at Two Rivers Gallery in downtown Chiloquin, including handmade jewelry and Native Americaninspired sculptures.

H&N photo by Kevin N. Hume

GALLERY, from page 22 Her degree, coupled with her enthusiasm for art and people as a gallery volunteer, propelled her into a lead role she never imagined.

“This has changed my life,” she said.

“This is just the perfect goal.”

She is able to combine her love for art and teaching in a whole new setting. And plan parties, something she also enjoys.

The gallery continues to serve as a social gathering place in town, and hosts gala parties. Pate is helping to plan a Christmas bazaar in conjunction with the

entire community center.

“The whole family can come in here,” Pate said. “It can be something they develop between them that they can do together and I love that.”

She also keeps conscientious tabs on the pricing for artistic pieces, encouraging artists to keep their prices competitive but also realistic to the economic times.

“In our economy, you don’t triple the price,” Pate said.

“I listen to the artists, too,” she added.

Pate also would like to bring in more Native American art and expressed interest in discussing the concept with members of the Chilo-

quin City Council.

“To keep the Native Indian culture alive in the art realm is important to me,” Pate said.

Creativity abounds Art is also an educational experience for Pate, which suits her background in teaching.

Pate taught art and Spanish for about 10 years, in Chiloquin and Klamath Falls as well as her home state of Minnesota.

She continues to teach a variety of weekly community classes at the gallery, with prices ranging from $5 to $33 so families can paint, draw, or even bead together. Other classes are offered as well, including “surviv-

al Spanish,” photography, calligraphy and an ink and alcohol class.

The gallery also hosts a $5 open painting and drawing studio from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays.

Art instructors include Pate, Bev Fairclo, David Crockett and Gayle Hybarger.

A website for the gallery is in progress and Pate hopes it will be ready this month. Pate said works of art will eventually be put up for sale on the site. Visit www.2riversartgallery.com to learn more or contact the gallery at 541-783-3326 or 541-783-2428. To learn more about CVIP, visit www. chiloquinvisions.com. hdillemuth@heraldandnews.com

24 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

Our Furry Friends An army of volunteers help care for local shelter animals

By STEPHEN FLOYD: H&N Staff Reporter

H

undreds of animals each year are housed in the Klamath County Animal Shelter.

From dogs and cats to horses, rabbits, goats and other livestock, the care of these furry friends falls to a small army of volunteers who give their time and effort to the shelter.

“I just come in and visit and clean up and give ‘em lots of love,” said long-serving volunteer Vicki Strickland.

A fan of felines, Strickland has spent the last eight years helping care for the shelter’s many cats. She said she can’t really tell you why she likes cats so much, but said she knows why she doesn’t spend too much time with the dogs.

“They’re too big and they all pull me over,” she said.

“You’ve heard of the crazy cat lady,” she continued.

“I’m her sister.”

Strickland said a day for her in the cat room will consist of cleaning cages, letting cats in and out of play areas and attending to animals in quarantine rooms. She also spends time with them human-to-cat to make sure the animals remain used to people.

See VOLUNTEERS, page 25

‘Faith’ful: Volunteer Vicki Strickland pets “Faith” as she eats at the Klamath Animal Shelter.

Park buddies: Border collie mix “Toby” and pit bull mix

“Funny Face” play and sniff each other through a fence in the Klamath Freedom Dog Park at the Klamath Animal Shelter.

H&N photos by Kevin N. Hume

25 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

Day in the park: Volunteer

Elaine Deutschman sits on a bench petting pit bull mix “Funny Face” at the Klamath Animal Shelter’s Klamath Freedom Dog Park.

Elaine Deutschman said they reached out to the shelter after they retired because, with the intent to travel regularly throughout the year, they could not commit to a pet of their own.

Sun bather: A cat soaks in

some sun on a bench in an enclosed outdoor visiting room at the Klamath Animal Shelter.

H&N photos by Kevin N. Hume

VOLUNTEERS, from page 24 “They (the volunteers) try to socialize them,” she said, adding an emphasis is placed on spending time with young kittens.

“I try to play with the babies more,” she continued.

While many of the cages, toys and amenities are provided by the shelter, Strickland said some volun-

teers contribute by crafting items such as cushions for pets to sleep on.

The cats, like many animals that come to the shelter, have a variety of backgrounds from strays to victims of neglect, to those whose owners could no longer care for them. Some pets also arrive after their owner has passed away, which Strickland said can be a difficult

time for the animals.

“They just don’t understand what’s going on,” she said.

The loss of an owner can also be hard on dogs, that sometimes develop strong bonds with their companions. Helping care regularly for the canines are Bill and Elaine Deutschman, who have been giving their time to the shelter since 2006.

“I decided, since we didn’t have a dog, I really needed a dog somewhere,” she said.

On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the Deutschmans visit to take the dogs for a run in nearby Freedom Dog Park.

“The dogs really need to get out and get some exercise,” said Elaine Deutschman. “It really calms them down.”

See VOLUNTEERS, page 26

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26 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

VOLUNTEERS, from page 25 Bill Deutschman said the pair have been with the shelter for so long they’re almost considered staff.

“We feel like family,” he said.

For example, if a shelter in Portland is interested in taking some dogs from Klamath, as they are more likely to be adopted in the big city, the Deutschmans are glad to transport the animals if they happen to be headed that way.

The Deutschmans shared one trip they took with a massive French mastiff that seemed big enough at times to topple the car.

“Every time he turned around in the kennel, the car rocked,” said Elaine Deutschman.

Over the years the Deutschmans have seen many breeds come through and been a part of many adoptions. Spending so much time with the animals, the volunteers at the shelter are a resource for those seeking to adopt a pet and sometimes save potential owners from choosing an animal they aren’t quite ready for.

“Occasionally we’ve said, ‘This dog is not for you,’ ” said Bill Deutschman.

Even after spending a decade with the shelter, the Deutschmans are far from tired of their responsibilities and continue enjoying their work.

“It’s the dogs that keep me coming back,” said Elaine Deutschman.

More helpers needed Despite a number of volunteers on hand and a paid staff at the ready, Strickland and the Deutschmans said additional helpers are still wanted to provide support for the animals.

Strickland said a good volunteer would be someone who “will just love (the animals) and take care of them.”

“I don’t find this challenging,” said Elaine Deutschman of volunteering. “This is my recreation. I look forward to Tuesday and Thursday mornings.”

Shelter manager Crystal Gagnon said a new round of training for volunteers will be starting in January and the only requirement is that a volunteer be 16 or older and available for whatever amount of time they can manage.

“Just spending time with (the animals) is perfectly acceptable,” she said, adding volunteerism at the shelter is “pretty much on a pop-in basis.”

Applications to become a volunteer are available at www. klamathanimalshelter.org and a $10 donation is requested to cover the cost of a background check. Volunteers are being accepted at the main shelter at 4240 Washburn Way as well as the Large Animal Division at 500 Miller Island Road. For more information, visit their website or call 541-884-7387.

Those unable to volunteer their time can also donate through sponsoring a room for an animal, which many local patrons and businesses have done.

Treat retreat: Volunteer Bill Deutschman gets Border collie

mix “Toby” to sit and wait for a treat, then shares one with pit bull mix “Funny Face,” at the Klamath Animal Shelter’s Klamath Freedom Dog Park.

H&N photos by Kevin N. Hume

27 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

INSIDE THE COOKIE JAR

Holiday spirit baked within

C hristmas

is the time when our favorite, richest, beautifully decorated and delicious cookie recipes usually make their appearance at parties, teas, after holiday dinners and on platters or in gift boxes shared with neighbors and friends. If you really “go nuts” baking those special treats for the holidays, try these recipes that use a variety of readily available nuts and capitalize on their unique flavors.

There are some benefits to be derived from nuts, but as with all sweets, moderation is key.

See COOKIES, page 29

By LEE BEACH: H&N Staff Reporter

28 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

Nuts for heart health

Photo by Lee Beach

Cookie tips: Always do the following when making cookies: Preheat oven to the required temperature. Then wait 10 to 15 minutes longer This allows for opening the oven door to insert the cookie sheets.

Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. If cookie dough is formed into balls for baking, keep cookie sheets level when putting them in the oven because the cookies WILL roll like marbles on the non-stick surface.

Plan ahead. Measure, weigh, chop and melt before you begin mixing.

When recipe calls for butter at room temperature or softened, it should be soft but not melting. Cold butter can be softened in the microwave at defrost setting, checking every 15 to 20 seconds until pressing your thumb leaves just an indent.

❶

According to the Mayo Clinic website, eating nuts as part of a healthy diet may be good for your heart. One way nuts may help your heart health is by lowering the low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or “bad”) cholesterol levels. Besides being packed with protein, most nuts contain at least some of these heart-healthy substances: unsaturated fats — Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, vitamin E, plant sterols and L-arginine. One drawback to nuts is they are high in calories, so it is important to limit portions.

❷ ❸ ❹

Toasting nuts: This intensifies their flavor and makes them crunchy.

Spread on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350 degree oven. The size of the pieces (chopped, sliced, slivered or whole) and fat content of the nuts will determine how long – usually 8 to 10 minutes, but they need to be watched and stirred often. They can also be toasted in an ungreased skillet over medium heat, stirring often.

Chopping nuts: If a food processor isn’t part of your kitchen equipment, a faster method than chopping each nut by hand is to put a layer out on a cutting board and with a chef’s knife, hold the point down with the left hand and move the blade up and down, back and forth in a chopping motion.

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29 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

Continued , from page 27

Maple-Pecan Drops ½ cup butter, softened ½ cup granulated sugar 3 Tbsp. maple-flavored syrup 1 cup all-purpose flour ½ tsp. baking soda ¼ tsp. salt 1 cup uncooked quick oats (not oldfashioned oats) ½ cup coarsely chopped pecans, toasted ¼ cup chopped, pitted dates

H&N photo by Lee Beach

International flair: Whether they are called Mexican or Italian (or other) wedding cookies, variations in nuts or sipping spirits can give these popular holiday cookies claimed by many parts of the world a wide range of flavors.

Mexican Wedding Cookies

1 cup butter 1/2 cup white sugar 2 tsp. vanilla extract 2 tsp. water

In a medium bowl, cream the butter and sugar. Stir in vanilla and water. Add the flour and almonds, mix until blended. Cover and chill for three hours.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Shape dough into balls the size of large walnuts. Place on an unprepared cookie

2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup chopped almonds 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes in the preheated oven. Remove from pan to cool on wire racks. When cookies are cool, roll in confectioners’ sugar.

Store at room temperature in an airtight container.

Source: allrecipes.com

Variations: ◗ Use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar, one teaspoon vanilla extract — real not imitation — and one teaspoon almond extract. ◗ Substitute chopped pecans or walnuts for the almonds. ◗ You can also flavor these cookies with rum, frangelico, kahlua, or any of your favorite sipping spirits. ◗ Sift sugar and flour to make your cookie dough light in texture.

Frosting 2 ounces cream cheese, softened 2 Tbsp. butter, softened 2 Tbsp. maple-flavored syrup 1-1/2 cups sifted powdered sugar Topping 1/3 cup finely chopped pecans, toasted Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Beat butter and granulated sugar in large bowl of electric mixer at medium speed until creamy. Beat in 3 Tbsp. syrup.

In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda and salt; gradually beat into butter mixture. On low speed, beat in oats, coarsely chopped pecans and dates.

Drop dough by rounded tablespoonsful 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets.

Bake 12 minutes or until cookies are golden brown. Let stand on cookie sheets 2 minutes; transfer to wire racks and cool completely. For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter in small bowl of electric mixer at medium speed until smooth. Beat in 2 tablespoons syrup. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until smooth. Spread frosting over cooled cookies; top with finely chopped pecans.

Yield: About 2 dozen cookies.

Source: “The Cookie Bible”

Tip: If you don’t want to pay for real

maple syrup, make your own: Add one cup granulated sugar to ½ cup boiling water and stir until dissolved. Add ½ tsp. maple extract. Use leftover syrup on pancakes and waffles if you prefer a thinner syrup than imitation store-bought.

Continued on page 30

30 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

Continued , from page 29

Chocolate power: The intensity of chocolate flavor can be amped up or reduced by the type of chocolate chunks or chips added to these crunchy morsels.

H&N photo by Lee Beach

Chocolate Ecstasy

Cran-pistachio Cookies

2 to 4 (4 oz. each) semi-sweet chocolate baking bars (amount can be increased depending on taste) 1/4 cup butter, softened 3/4 cup packed brown sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla

1/2 cup flour 1 ½ cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips OR 8 more ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (can be increased for preference) 1/4 tsp. baking powder 2 cups chopped walnuts

1 pouch (1 lb. 1.5 oz.)

Betty Crocker sugar cookie mix 1 box (four-serving size) pistachio instant pudding and pie filling mix ¼ cup all-purpose flour

½ cup butter or margarine, melted 2 eggs 1 cup dry-roasted, salted pistachio nuts, chopped 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped

Heat oven to 350 degrees.

Chop 8 ounces of chocolate; set aside. Microwave remaining chocolate in a large microwaveable bowl on high for 2 minutes, stirring after 1 minute. Stir until chocolate is completely melted. Add butter; stir until melted. Stir in sugar, eggs and vanilla. Add flour and baking powder; mix well. Stir in chips or chopped chocolate and nuts.

Note: If omitting nuts,

increase flour to 3/4 cup to prevent excessive spreading of cookie dough as cookies bake.

Drop rounded tablespoonsful of dough 2 inches apart onto baking sheets.

Bake 12 to 13 minutes or until cookies are puffed and shiny. Cool on baking sheets for 1 minute. Remove to wire racks; cool completely.

Yield: 2 ½ dozen.

Source: Kraft.com

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, stir together cookie mix, pudding mix and flour. Stir in melted butter and eggs until soft dough forms. Add pistachios and cranberries; mix well.

Using a small cookie scoop or teaspoon, drop

dough 2 inches apart on a lined cookie sheet. Press with fingers to slightly flatten. Bake 9 to 11 minutes or until edges are a light, golden brown. Cool 2 minutes; remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Cool completely. Store tightly covered at room temperature.

Source: Betty Crocker.com

Continued on page 31

31 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

Holiday variety:

Baked with love and traditions, beautiful and delicious Christmas cookies will soon be appearing on holiday tables. These feature several varieties of nuts.

H&N photo by Lee Beach

Continued , from page 30

Brown Sugar Cashew Cookies Cookie dough 1 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 cup butter, softened 1 large egg 1 tsp. vanilla 2 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 tsp. baking powder 3/4 tsp. baking soda 1/3 cup sour cream 1 3/4 cups cashew halves Frosting 1/2 cup butter 2 cups powdered sugar 3 Tbsp. milk 1 tsp. vanilla Cashew halves, if desired Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine brown sugar and 1/2 cup butter in bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy.

Add egg and vanilla; continue beating until well mixed. Add flour,

baking powder and baking soda alternately with sour cream, beating at low speed until well mixed. Stir in cashews.

Drop dough by level tablespoonsful, 2 inches apart, onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely.

Melt 1/2 cup butter in a heavy, 1-quart saucepan over medium heat.

Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, four to six minutes or until butter foams and just starts to turn golden.

(Watch closely.) Immediately remove from heat. Pour into medium bowl; cool five minutes.

Add powdered sugar, milk and vanilla; beat until smooth. Frost cooled cookies. Top with cashew half, if desired.

Tip: This is a mild cookie, so the frosting adds needed intensity to the flavor.

Source: landolakes.com

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32 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

Rise & Shine

W

ant to avoid a brunch crunch and impress your holiday house guests? Try serving up simple elegance with hot, crispy popovers.

Brighten your holiday brunch with popovers and a fruit sauce duet

By HOLLY OWENS: H&N Staff Reporter

A saucy start:

Brighten up a batch of quick and easy popovers with raspberry sauce and fresh lemon curd.

H&N photo by Holly Owens

While you’re at it, brighten up the hot popovers’ eggy and hollow insides with a dollop of fresh lemon curd and a swirl of raspberry sauce.

This trio is the perfect combination of tart, sweet and simple. Popovers, despite their daunting reputation, are quick and easy to bake.

These tall-crowned and airy American cousins to Yorkshire pudding can be either baked in a muffin tin, or a special steep-sided popover pan.

Make sure to grease the pan well, as the batter can stick to the top as it “pops over” while baking.

As soon as you take them out of the oven, poke their sides with a knife or skewer. This will allow steam trapped inside the popover to escape and help keep the top from collapsing.

See BRUNCH, page 33

Popovers boast a Portland legacy In the book “American Food” it is noted that “Settlers from Maine who founded Portland, Oregon, Americanized the pudding from Yorkshire by cooking the batter in custard cups lubricated with drippings from the roasting beef (or sometimes pork); another modification was the use of garlic, and, frequently, herbs.

The result is called Portland popover pudding: individual balloons of crusty meatflavored pastry.”

Other popover variations include replacing some of the flour with pumpkin puree and adding spices such as allspice or nutmeg.

Source: Wikipedia.com

33 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

BRUNCH, from page 32 If you need to delay serving, after the sides have been pierced, the popovers can be returned to the cooling oven for another 20 to 30 minutes. This will allow the outsides to get even crisper.

Make it easy on yourself for morning preparation by making the lemon curd and raspberry sauce the day before. Want to have a stash of bright and flavorful lemon curd at the ready? This velvety custard-like sauce can be stored for up to two weeks in the refrigerator; or if canned and processed with a hot water bath, it will stay fresh for up to three months in the refrigerator.

Fresh squeezed: Fresh lemon

juice is a must when making lemon curd. Other citrus juice may be substituted for a variety of flavors.

Spread or custard? Butter is mixed in as the last step in making lemon curd. The fruity concoction has a spread-like quality yet has the consistency of a custard.

Level of success: For popovers that “pop” over the top, fill muffin tins to 3/4-full. This tin could use a bit more filling.

H&N photos by Holly Owens

Raspberry sauce 12 ounces frozen raspberries 1/4 to 1/2 cup of sugar (depending on taste preference) 1 Tbsp. lemon juice 4 tsp. corn starch 2 Tbsp. Cold water Place frozen raspberries, lemon juice and sugar in a medium saucepan and cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Mix together corn starch and cold water in a separate container. When raspberry mixture comes to a low boil, stir in the corn starch and water mixture. Remove from heat and stir continuously, until sauce begins to thicken.

Note: This fruit sauce recipe works well with blueberries, peaches and strawberries as well.

Easy Ethereal Popovers Makes 6 large or 12 small popovers 1 Tbsp. unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing the pan 2 large eggs 1 cup flour 1/2 tsp. salt 1 1/4 cups milk Preheat the oven to 450 degrees, and thoroughly grease the pan.

Melt the tablespoon of butter and set it aside to cool slightly.

Break the eggs into a bowl and whisk gently. Then stir in the flour, salt, milk and melted butter until just barely

blended; a few lumps are fine.

Fill the cups 2/3 to 3/4 full, and bake at 450 for 15 minutes. Reduce oven temp to 350 and bake an additional 20 minutes. (No peeking! Opening the oven door in the first 20 minutes can cause them to collapse.)

When they are brown and crusty, remove them from the oven, and make a small slit in their sides with a sharp knife.

Serve immediately, or return to turnedoff oven.

Source: Recipe adapted from “The Joy of Cooking,” by Nina Callaway at http:// bit.ly/2fAIhPf. See BRUNCH, page 34

34 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

BRUNCH, from page 33

Lemon Curd In the top of a double boiler over simmering water, whisk together 2 whole eggs and 2 egg yolks. Whisk in ½ cup sugar and 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice.

Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Do not let the mixture boil or it will curdle.

Remove the pan from the simmering water and whisk in 6 tablespoons of butter, cut into pieces. Mix until the butter is melted.

Cool the curd to room temperature, about 30 minutes. Place the curd in the refrigerator and chill; it will continue to thicken.

Source: Tribune News Service

For a variety of curd flavors, try substituting other fruit juices for the lemon juice; such as lime, mandarin, orange, grapefruit, passion fruit or pineapple.

Time to serve:

If you need to delay serving your freshly baked popovers, slit the their sides and return them to the cooling oven. This will provide an extra 20 to 30 minutes and make the popovers crispier.

Make ahead: Both the raspberry sauce and lemon curd can be made a day or two ahead of time and refrigerated.

H&N photos by Holly Owens

Know your options so you can live each moment to the fullest.

Together we can help you plan.

541-882-2902 www.klamathhospice.org

35 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

Quintessentials A close-up look at personalities who help make the Basin a great place to live

H&N photo by Kevin N. Hume

Doug Brown: Klamath Freedom Celebration, co-founder

By KEVIN N. HUME

D

H&N Staff Photographer

oug Brown grew up in Klamath Falls during its heyday and wants to do what he can to help turn things around.

“It’s hard for me to look at empty buildings,” Brown said. “I just want to revitalize the town by doing these events and putting us back on the map and getting people to be a part of it.”

Brown, 62, is in charge of the Klamath Freedom Celebration, a group that honors veterans by putting on patriotic events around national holidays such as Memorial Day. He co-founded the group in 2010 with his wife, Christine, who died of breast cancer earlier this year. The two met at a motorcycle ride and “fell in

love the first day we met.”

“I carry it on in her name,” he said.

In 2009, the couple attended a motorcycle event in Tulelake that featured the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall.

“I went to the wall and I touched (it),” Brown said. “I looked at my wife … and I said, ‘You know, I never served.

It’s time for us to give back.’”

Having both grown up in households with veteran parents and with their mutual love of motorcycles, the two organized the Crater Lake Freedom Run in 2010 to honor those who served their country. The event was a success. Brown handed the organization of this year’s ride over to friend Ryan Wheelock, who rechristened the event as the “Chris Brown Memorial Poker Run” in her honor.

Over the next few years, the couple brought the traveling Vietnam War memorial back to Klamath Falls

three years in a row as well as the American Veterans Traveling Tribute for a single event held over the course of a few days.

Then in 2011, the city of Klamath Falls requested they take over organizing the Memorial Day and Veterans Day parades.

“We have trust in each other, the city and Klamath Freedom,” Brown said.

By 2014, the Klamath County Chamber of Commerce brought them on board to take over planning Fourth of July events such as the fireworks display at the Klamath County Fairgrounds.

The Freedom Celebration has evolved with time as more events have been planned.

“I’ve had as many in one year as 14 different events,” Brown said. “We’re at the point where we know what works and what doesn’t.”

In 2015, the group’s most recent venture was born: the Basin Brew & Q, a beer and barbecue festival at Steen Sports Park the second weekend in July. Brown wants to see the event grow.

“It is my hope that it becomes one of the larger brew fests in Oregon,” he said. “We need to work on the barbecue end. We need barbecuers — locally and out of area. We’re going to build that part of it so this can be as big as we want to make it.”

In 2017, the Brew & Q falls on July 8.

Brown said he is planning to combine Fourth of July events along with the brew fest and other activities into a multi-day event, dubbed “Freedom Days.”

“I’d like to paint the town red, white and blue for those four days,” he said. khume@heraldandnews.com

36 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

❘ Flora & Fauna of the Klamath Basin ❘ ◗

Sandhill crane ❘

The Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge is a place where 80 percent of West Coast migrating waterfowl pass through.

That includes about 20 to 30 percent of the Central Valley sandhill crane population.

“Whether stepping singly across a wet meadow or filling the sky by the hundreds and thousands, Sandhill Cranes have an elegance that draws attention,” the Cornell Lab of Ornithology states on its All About Birds web page on sandhill cranes. “These tall, gray-bodied, crimson-capped birds breed in open wetlands, fields and prairies across North America.”

Their flocks can contain birds in the tens of thousands, Cornell states, and during migration they often fly very high in the sky.

Sandhill cranes are hard to mistake for other birds. They have red skin on their crowns that tops a slender body and neck.

Sandhill cranes can range in height from 3-feet tall (lesser sandhill cranes) to 5 ½-feet tall (greater sandhill cranes). They weigh between 7 ½ to and 11 pounds.

◗

Sandhill crane

H&N photo by Holly Owens

Shasta red fir Photo courtesy of the Crater Lake Institute

Sandhill crane facts ◗ The sandhill crane’s long neck and long trachea, allow it to make a loud, rolling, trumpeting sound. Listen to the sandhill crane’s call at the All About Birds website at http://bit. ly/1WUWmTC.

◗ When courting, they dance by stretching their wings, pumping their heads, bowing and leaping in the air ◗ The oldest sandhill crane fossil is estimated at 2.5 million years old

Shasta red fir

❘

Christmas tree permits went on sale the week before Thanksgiving for the FremontWinema National Forest.

According to the Common Plants of the Upper Klamath Basin, the Shasta red fir is prized as a Christmas tree, but grows only in the Cascades above 5,000 feet.

According to the Crater Lake Institute, Shasta red fir is common in Crater Lake National Park, found in cool, moist hallows and on shaded slopes.

Shasta red fir, “is a large tree, with a magnificent round, red-brown trunk, that nearly equals in size the largest white firs of the region,” the institute website states. “This tree grows naturally in the southern Cascades and Oregon and southward in the California Sierras.”

The needles are bluish-green and uniquely shaped, like hockey sticks. Cones are 4- to 6-inches long and olive brown with “large protruding bracts on the scales.”

Shasta red fir facts ◗ Grows up to 200 feet tall ◗ Narrow at its crown and rounded on top ◗ Scientific name: Abies shastensis

By SAMANTHA TIPLER: For the Herald and News

Learn more: For a PDF guide of native plants, consult the locally produced guide, “Common Plants of the Upper Klamath Basin” at http://bit.ly/2fm4Jsj.

37 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

On the calendar around the region Saturday, Dec. 3 ◗ Final performance of the comedy, “The

Drunkard,” 7:30 p.m., at the Linkville Playhouse, 201 Main St.

Sunday, Dec. 4

admission price of $5 for adults applies. Children age 12 and under, free admission. The museum is at 1451 Main St. For information, call 541-882-1000.

Tuesday, Dec. 20

◗ Open house from noon to 4 p.m. in Klamath Art Gallery at 120 Riverside Drive. ◗ Esquire Jazz Orchestra in concert, 2 p.m. in the Ross Ragland Theater. Tickets are $19, $23 and $29 before transaction fees. ◗ Lads of Leisure will perform with guest vocalist Bonnie Hay in a holiday concert at 2 p.m. in the Klamath County Library. Admission is free.

◗ The Eugene Ballet Company presents “The Nutcracker,” 2 and 7:30 p.m. at the Ross Ragland Theater, 218 N. Seventh St. Tickets are $19, $23 and $29 before transaction fees.

Saturday and Sunday Dec. 10 and 11

◗ Bullmania at the Klamath County Fairgrounds Event Center. For information, visit bullmaniaklamathfalls.com.

◗ Little Linkville presents “The Self-Saving Princess,” 1 p.m. Saturday, and 1 and 3 p.m.

Sunday at the Linkville Playhouse, 201 Main St. tickets are $2 each and are available in advance from Periwinkle Home at 831 Main St., and at the door prior to each show. The Linkville Playhouse is at 201 Main St.

Sunday, Dec. 11 ◗ A Christmas concert will be held by Klamath Chorale at 2 p.m. in the Ross Ragland Theater. Tickets are $15 before transaction fees.

Saturday, Dec. 31 ◗ Rockin’ at the Ragland New Year’s Eve Party, 9 p.m., at the Ross Ragland Theater. Live music, games and more. Tickets are $25 each before transaction fees.

◗ New Year’s Eve Glam It Up with the Glamazons, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., Running Y Ranch Resort Convention Center. Tickets are $35 through Dec. 16 at eventbrite.com, $45 Dec. 17 through 31 at eventbrite, or $50 at the door.

Friday through Saturday Jan. 13-Feb. 4 ◗ “Becky’s New Car,” 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Jan. 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28 and

Snowflake Festival events See page 20

Feb. 3 and 4, and 2 p.m. Sunday Jan. 29, at the Linkville Playhouse. Tickets are $11, $12 and $14 each and are available in advance at Periwinkle Home, 831 Main St.

Friday through Sunday Jan. 20-29 ◗ The Ragland Teen Theater and 2017 Winter Community Production presents “Superman,” 7:30 p.m. Jan. 20, 21, 27 and 28, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 22 and 29, at the Ross Ragland Theater. Tickets are $15, $19 and $23 before transaction fees.

Thursday, Dec. 15 ◗ A Pack Rat Christmas, 7 p.m., Ragland Cultural Center, 218 N. Seventh St. A holiday tribute to Rat Pack era greats through the local talents of Mark McCrary, Amanda Squibb, Dan Neubauer and Nathalie Reid.

Tickets are $15 each before transaction fees.

Saturday and Sunday Dec. 17 and 18

◗ Little Linkville presents “The Self-Saving Princess,” 1 p.m. Saturday, and 1 and 3 p.m.

Sunday at the Linkville Playhouse, 201 Main St. tickets are $2 each and are available in advance from Periwinkle Home at 831 Main St., and at the door prior to each show. The Linkville Playhouse is at 201 Main St.

Dec. 17 through 30 ◗ Klamath County Museum Holiday Model Railroad Show, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. Regular museum

All aboard: The Klamath County Museum will host its Holiday Model Railroad Show starting Saturday, Dec. 17 and continuing through Friday, Dec. 30.

Klamath County Museum photo

38 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ In Season

Advertiser’s Index AirLink........................................................39 Antonio’s Cucina Italiana...................22 Courtesy Auto & RV ..............................3 Davenport’s Chapel...............................16 Diamond Lake Resort............................8 Niles Hotel..................................................5 House of Shoes.......................................28 Howard’s Drugs......................................39 Howard’s Meat Center.........................31 KCC...................................................... 13, 25 Klamath Eye................................................11

Klamath Hospice...................................... 34 Macy’s Flying Service..............................9 Mercy Flights...........................................39 Mile Hi Tire & Exhaust........................39 Modoc Medical Center.......................19 Modoc Steel & Supply.........................22 Monte Johnson Insurance....................9 Sky Lakes................................................... 40 Stateline Auto Parts Inc........................9 True Value Lakeview.............................39

39 ❘ Klamath Life ❘ IN SEASON

L akeview D irector y For more information, Chamber of Commerce at (541) 947-6040

HOWARD’S DRUGS

YOU CAN’T PREDICT AN EMERGENCY… BUT YOU CAN PREPARE – BECOME A MEMBER

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Phone: 1-800-903-9000

www.mercyflights.com

FOR EMERGENCIES CALL 9-1-1

541-947-2210

BTS, LLC is the FAR Part 135 Certificate Holder providing aviation services and owns and operates the helicopter used by Mercy Flights, Inc.

318 N. F St. Lakeview, OR

Mile Hi Tire & eXHausT U-Haul Dealer

101 North “F” St. Lakeview Lakeview

(541) 947-2141

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541-947-4975

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Affordable Household Membership of $65. Call for details.

541.294.4868

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