Ashland Community Connection | July 2021 by Rosebud Media

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Ashland Community Connections | Revels

ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL IN CRISIS

Mayor, councilors refute role in exit of city manager By Allayana Darrow for ACC

The resignation of Ashland City Manager pro tem Adam Hanks has revealed a rift among city councilors and the mayor’s office and prompted a scramble to determine how to fill the city manager post. Hanks announced Wednesday that he will resign effective Aug. 6, one month after City Attorney David Lohman’s last day on the job. Councilor Stephen Jensen claimed Mayor Julie Akins and two city councilors are at fault for critical staff members jumping ship, which all three refuted in a joint statement. Jensen said dishonesty, aspersion toward staff members and irresponsible municipal governance put Hanks’ resignation “squarely” at their feet. In a statement, Akins and councilors Shaun Moran and Gina DuQuenne said they relied upon Hanks’ and Lohman’s experience over the past six months and were “surprised by their decisions” to resign. Akins, Moran and DuQuenne denied accusations they had been dishonest or personally attacked staff, and claimed Jensen “has been uncooperative in seeking ways for the council to work together.”

“The city attorney, David Lohman, retired like many people do,” DuQuenne said. “The audacity of Councilor Jensen to say false statements about my character is appalling and completely against the city code of conduct.” Jensen said the mayor and councilors’ statements deflect from what staff have endured. When asked what she does well and could improve as far as relationships with city staff, Akins said she frequently seeks input from the City Council on commission applications, listens to advice and endeavors to maintain a sense of humility. “Whoever the new person in the chair is, after someone has occupied it for 12 years, that kind of change, there’s always going to be growing pains for everybody,” Akins said, referring to her mayoral term amid the pandemic and recent change in form of governance. “It ain’t easy. There are some folks who are going to feel that there are things that I could do better, and I don’t blame them.” Councilor Paula Hyatt said in the short time she came to know Hanks, he quickly showed invaluable insight and knowledge, and garnered respect from his peers. SEE MANAGER, A4

“With two critical employees leaving recently, it brings to mind an early career lesson from a human resources expert: Employees leave managers, not companies.” Paula Hyatt, member, Ashland City Council ■

“I had hoped she would stay longer, just as I had hoped City Manager pro tem Adam Hanks would. These top spots are hard to fill. But we will fill them, and Ashland will continue as a vibrant community.” Mayor Julie Akins, on the resignation of Ashland Finance Director Melanie Purcell ■

“It is more than tragic. It is catastrophic for this town. ... The lifeboats are out, the code of conduct just went overboard.” Stephen Jensen, member, Ashland City Council

Finance director becomes third top official to leave job By Allayana Darrow for ACC

Ashland Finance Director Melanie Purcell announced Wednesday she will resign from the city effective Aug. 6. “It has been an honor and privilege to serve with the staff at the city of Ashland, and I treasure the opportunity to have worked as a member of this amazing team,” Purcell said in a resignation letter dated June 21 addressed to City Manager pro tem Adam Hanks, who is set to resign effective the same date. Purcell said she considers the 2021-23 biennial budget a “solid example of strategic budgeting,” with the structure to incorporate community values. “While there are challenging times ahead that require thoughtful decisions, the staff work to build the budget provides a strong foundation for careful policy choices,” Purcell said in the letter. Hanks suggested to the council that a second agenda item be added to a June 29 special session to discuss appointing an interim finance director. Mayor Julie Akins called the special session to address interim

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hiring for the city manager position, after Hanks announced his resignation June 16. Purcell worked in municipal government for nearly 30 years, specializing in finance, human resources and organizational design, according to her profile on the Government Finance Officers Association website. She holds a master’s degree in public policy, bachelor’s degree in economics and is a certified public finance officer. Akins said she appreciated Purcell’s contributions during the budget development process and found her “professional, pleasant and competent,” in their few interactions. “I had hoped she would stay longer, just as I had hoped City Manager pro tem Adam Hanks would,” Akins said. “These top spots are hard to fill. But we will fill them, and Ashland will continue as a vibrant community.” Councilors Stephen Jensen and Tonya Graham have alleged that the recent rash of resignations are the consequence of poor staff treatment and a “toxic” work environment created by Akins and councilors Shaun Moran and Gina DuQuenne. SEE FINANCE, A4

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Ashland Community Connections | Revels

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Ashland Community Connections | Revels

ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL IN CRISIS

Ashland passes $264 million biennial budget By Allayana Darrow for ACC

Ashland City Council approved the city’s 2021-23 biennial budget June 1, crossing the finish line on a six-month budget development process and paving the way for discussion on long-term financial stability. The budget passed 4-2, with Councilors Shaun Moran and Gina DuQuenne casting nay votes. A total of $2.9 million in reductions were made after city department submissions and revisions by the Citizens’ Budget Committee, according to Finance Director Melanie Purcell. The city budget totals $263,949,218, including transfers between funds. Purcell said the budget was composed recognizing obstacles and possibilities for the city, such as funding stability for Ashland Parks and Recreation, plans for the ambulance service, maintaining and replacing infrastructure, wildfire prevention, emergency management and regional public safety operations, and reinvestment in the Ashland Fiber Network. The first budget phase shifts funding for Ashland Parks and Recreation from general fund

property tax revenue to a 98% allocation of food and beverage tax revenue beginning in fiscal year 2022. Reductions in franchise fee rates for water, wastewater and electric utilities, and reinvestment of franchise fee revenues into Street Fund capital projects round out phase one recommendations, which are subject to further review by the council. The second phase focuses on “eliminating structural imbalance and looking at the direction of the various assets that the city has,” Purcell said. Phase three prioritizes resiliency and regionalization — identifying what Ashland contributes to emergency management, securing adequate reserve funds and implementing a comprehensive, long-term financial strategy, she said. “We wanted to look at what changes came about as a result of COVID that we could adopt and keep,” Purcell said. “Through that, we ended up purchasing the kiosk that will be available this summer for citizens to make automated payments rather than having to come into city hall.” Nearly $6 million in savings can be attributed to pandemic-related reductions, she said. About $4.3 million in federal

FINANCE From Page A2

Jensen’s previous statements were criticized as alleged violations of the council’s code of conduct. The code requires councilors to refrain from negative personal comments, derogatory or misleading statements about staff and others, and “casting aspersion either directly or indirectly.” “One may speak in opposition, but do so without personal rancor,” under the risk of legal and financial jeopardy, the code says. “The pattern of municipal destruction is now obvious,” Jensen said Wednesday. “I did not become a city councilor to preside over the systematic dismantling of our town, and that’s what we’re seeing.” The pattern can be traced back to failed fire chief recruitment in December 2020, followed by the retirement of City Attorney David Lohman and resignation of Hanks, who carried “a ton of

stimulus cannot be used for tax cuts, rate cuts or reserve funding, but may replace lost revenue from general municipal operations, hence a recommendation to direct the stimulus package toward the general fund, Purcell said. On May 14, the Citizens’ Budget Committee approved moving $100,000 in marijuana tax revenue from the general fund to the housing fund each fiscal year, and recommended the council identify reductions or revenue streams to cover $1 million in the general fund over two years. With the budget, the council approved minor rate increases for electric, stormwater and wastewater, adding up to about $3.52 per month for the average Ashland residence. “It had come to light that they were not in line and some customers were paying less than their fair share, other customers were paying more — this is part of a gradual stabilization of that,” Purcell said regarding electric rate increases. Staff recommendations included a series of City Council study sessions bimonthly from August through March 2022 to consider each cog in the financial prioritization system.

experience, institutional knowledge and respect” in Ashland, Jensen said. In her role as finance director, Purcell was a vital component of righting the city’s wayward financial ship, he said. “It is more than tragic. It is catastrophic for this town,” Jensen said. “The mayor and councilors who are responsible for the resignations of key municipal staff need to be held accountable immediately.” Jensen said the code of conduct applies to “normal times and normal interactions” — not applicable to the city’s current “dire” situation, he said. “The lifeboats are out, the code of conduct just went overboard,” Jensen said. Akins said Ashland is experiencing retention and hiring challenges like many employers in current economic conditions. “It’s reflective of a ‘post-COVID’ economy where employees are calling the shots,” Akins said. “That’s not a bad thing, but it is a thing that affects the city of Ashland.”

City Manager Pro Tem Adam Hanks said the additional study sessions represent the necessary price of moving toward sustainable and resilient fiscal management. “I have not seen anyone in these conversations say that we are not facing a structural issue with our budget,” said Councilor Tonya Graham, who moved to approve the biennial budget. “This budget allows us to take some concrete early steps and it also buys us the time that we need to make those bigger decisions about what this community expects from its city government, what the city government can provide and how we go about providing those services in the longer term.” Councilor Shaun Moran said he did not support budget approval because councilors were not asked about their priorities, goals and values during its composition. Moran rejected implications that the budget had been “cut to the bone” and said no “serious attention” was given to cost cutting. The budget only balanced because federal stimulus money came through, and rate increases fly in the face of the city’s affordability goals, he said.

MANAGER From Page A2

“With two critical employees leaving recently, it brings to mind an early career lesson from a human resources expert: Employees leave managers, not companies,” Hyatt said, citing research that shows poor management is a key factor in employee turnover. City staff seek professional fulfillment, respect and appreciation as valued team members — necessary characteristics of leadership for effective recruitment and retention, she said. Councilor Tonya Graham said the staff who have ably navigated the city through concurrent emergency situations, including Hanks, “do not deserve to be disrespected as they have been.” The urgency of filling the two positions to maintain essential services takes away from investing time in fiscal management, social equity, economic development, climate change, infrastructure and homelessness, she said.

“The proposal to implement the Budget Committee’s recommendation to cut general fund expenses or add revenues of $1 million as the first step in dealing with the structural deficit will be looked at over the next two years just reinforces to me the same kick-the-can-down-the-roadand-let’s-hope-for-the-best approach that has gotten the city into this financial mess,” Moran said. Councilor Gina DuQuenne, echoing Moran’s comments, said she would not support the budget because it did not represent “good fiscal stewardship” and places an unnecessary burden on Ashland residents. Councilor Paula Hyatt encouraged the council to consider how projected versus actual figures might differ, with several city staff positions remaining open or frozen. The proposed study sessions will allow the council to continue the Budget Committee’s work and make hard decisions about spending, she said. Councilor Stefani Seffinger said elements of the budget, such as relocation of marijuana tax revenue in support of affordable housing, reflect a commitment to acting upon community values.

“I am deeply saddened for our city by his departure, but I fully understand why he is leaving an organization he loves,” Graham said. “With Mr. Hanks’ departure, so soon after Mr. Lohman’s resignation, the city no longer has the capacity to move forward in ways that will move the needle on these issues.” The mayor works closest with the city manager to set agendas and progress on city issues, and in essence speaks for the city as a whole, she said. “City government in Ashland is in crisis due to the behavior of our mayor and two councilors, who have together created a toxic working environment for our staff,” Graham said. Graham said council meeting discussions frequently disrespect staff members. She called on Akins to present herself as a positive role model for all meeting participants, correct the record when inaccurate statements are made, intercede if councilors campaign during meetings, and “stop editorializing” council issues.

Ashland Community Connections | Revels

Thursday, July 1, 2021 |

ASHLAND FIRE & RESCUE

Analysis finds city should keep ambulances By Allayana Darrow for ACC

The city of Ashland would not financially or operationally benefit from eliminating Ashland Fire & Rescue’s ambulance service, a recent analysis by Public Consulting Group found. Ashland City Council reviewed the ambulance transporting services cost and service analysis at its June 14 study session. The Cost Review Ad Hoc Committee recommended the study in May 2020, as city department budgets tightened in response to the economic fallout of the pandemic. Public Consulting Group reviewed national firefighting and emergency medical service standards, budget, volume of calls for service, and five years of AFR expenditures and revenues in its audit. The city paid for the analysis with contingency dollars in the general fund, at a total cost of $48,720, according to council documents. “The decision to discontinue the ambulance service will affect not only the residents in the city of Ashland, but also residents in areas surrounding Ashland,” according to Public Consulting Group’s report. “[The analysis] clearly indicates that the ambulance transport is an enhancement, not a detriment, for the city.” Stakeholders and contributors on the analysis included representatives from the city, International Association of Fire Fighters Local 1269, AFR, Jackson County Fire District No. 3, Andres Medical and Reinholdt & O’Harra Insurance. Jackson County Fire District No. 5 was not listed as a contributor on the study, but remains a strong operational partner with AFR, said City Manager pro tem Adam Hanks. The consulting team had a prior professional relationship with District 3 Chief Robert Horton, and the fire district’s new Community Care Program is of interest to city leadership, hence their selection as a regional contributor, he said. City Council will have 12 to 18 months to review information and decide whether to renew a five-year license with Jackson County, or go another route with the ambulance service, Hanks said. As of 2015, the city’s Insurance Service Office rating — indicating a fire department’s capability to defend its community — was Class 3, with Class 1 being the best possible rating. The city received a 50% deduction in points for inadequate staffing. The classification influences property insurance rates in

the community. a FTE equivalent,” “The decision to discontinue Excluding supHurley said. the ambulance service will plemental staff In fiscal year affect not only the residents provided by part2019, AFR ners, AFR’s nine in the city of Ashland, but also expended just over on-duty person- residents in areas surrounding $10 million. Ambunel structure falls lance transports, Ashland,” according to Public transfers, fees and short of standards Consulting Group’s report. established by the ambulance the National Fire membership pro“[The analysis] clearly Protection Assoindicates that the ambulance gram bring in $1.3 ciation, which million annually, transport is an enhancement, which is distributed requires at least 18 not a detriment, for the city.” among programs personnel respond and services supto a low energy structure fire, based on response time ported by the general fund and does and emergency management objectives. not go directly back into AFR’s budget. A review of AFR’s “critically underTransports generated from 911 calls staffed” department today or any represent the department’s largest further reductions in staff may drop the revenue stream — about 93% of total city’s score to Class 5, the report said. ambulance-related revenue. Low staffing reduces firefighter safety Combined direct and indirect costs to and increases hazard mitigation time operate the ambulance service total nearly and the potential for civilian casualties. $2.3 million. Factoring in revenues, the AFR recently obtained approval to fill average annual net cost to maintain the three firefighter positions — left vacant ambulance service alone is $840,900, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic according to the analysis. The figure repin 2020 — leaving the department still resents the true amount of general fund lacking four to five personnel to align dollars leveraged to maintain the ambuwith NFPA standards after filling the lance service. slots. “Although this may seem as an advoPublic Consulting Group project cacy piece, the compelling factors here specialist Charley Hurley said across are the staffing that you have, how that the U.S., volunteer firefighter pro- staffing impacts the insurance rates grams have proven unable to overcome within the community for both busirecruitment and retention challenges nesses and for residents — it’s also the that impede success with the format. $1.3 million in revenue that the ambuVolunteer firefighters still incur costs lance transport brings into the city,” for specialized equipment and thou- Hurley said. “The loss of any of those is sands of hours of training required for going to have an operational, adminiscertification, he said. trative and fiscal negative impact to the “As a fire chief, for every one posi- city. We looked at this as objectively as tion I have, I have to have four volunteer we possibly could, but the conclusions firefighters to fill one position to get me are the conclusions.”

Public Consulting Group recommended the city consider expanding the ambulance service area to include Phoenix as a revenue-generating tactic, among other recommendations, such as updating the department's mission statement to make clear whether ambulance services are part of EMS delivery, and improving the ambulance membership program. According to Ken Riddle, senior advisor for fire and emergency medical services at Public Consulting Group, the city could save money within the fire department by implementing community risk reduction programs to reduce overall call volume. A drastic increase in wildfire-related expenses was reported in 2017, accompanied by the highest documented unit response and transport volume for the department. By the 2019 fiscal year, wildfire-related expenses totaled nearly $2 million, compared to $274,693 in fiscal year 2016. Together, AFR’s ambulances are worth about $175,000 in resale. PCG cautioned the city against considering eliminating the ambulance service as a source of savings, without factoring in extra costs incurred from moving staff to engine companies only and other factors. Privatizing the ambulance service was projected to cost more than an extra half-million per year. Maintaining a local ambulance service supports patient continuity of care, the report said, which can improve patient health outcomes. “A conversation that we had during the cost-cut committee was in fact that maybe Mercy Flights would consider putting their ambulances in our fire department,” said Councilor Shaun Moran, urging the council to continue considering opportunities for thirdparty partnership. With existing capacity, AFR can respond to up to four concurrent incidents at once — without ambulance transport, capacity to respond to multiple incident locations drops by half, according to the report. “I know that it saves lives,” Councilor Stefani Seffinger said regarding personal emergency experiences with the ambulance service. “I know that we would be risking providing the same level of care to our community if we didn’t have the service that we have.” Ashland’s ambulance service may make the city an attractive partner in future emergency operations regionalization efforts, Seffinger said.

| Thursday, July 1, 2021 |

Ashland Community Connections | Revels

ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL

Social Equity and GET BACK TO DOING THE Justice commission THINGS YOU LOVE, & WITHOUT members approved FASTER SURGERY!

By Allayana Darrow for ACC

ASHLAND — Ashland City Council unanimously approved appointments to the Social Equity and Racial Justice Commission Tuesday, bringing together 10 individuals to sit on the newly formed commission focused on identifying issues and supplying remedies related to systemic inequity. As allowed by Ashland Municipal Code, Mayor Julie Akins appointed Amit Choudhary, Cheri Elson, Julie Gillis, Keith Jenkins, Irene Kai, Anyania Muse, Nataki Garrett, Emily Simon, Tamara Williams and Precious Yamaguchi. Councilor Gina DuQuenne will serve as council liaison. “We have a nice representation of different interests and different levels of skill with regard to this,” said Councilor Stefani Seffinger in a motion to approve the appointments during the Tuesday council business meeting. The SERJ Commission is tasked with providing council recommendations and community education on “policies, measures and practices to foster racial and social equity and respectful intergroup relations,” according to council documents. Choudhary is a software engineer and farmer and has organized vigils and marches for racial equity and offered free community meditation for three years, according to his commission application. Elson, a retired estate planning attorney, brings her background as the child of a Holocaust survivor and Jew who has experienced discrimination. Gillis is director of development for Southern Oregon PBS and joins the commission with formal cultural agility training, Social Justice Training Institute immersion and professional

experience with deescalation and human rights-focused activism. Jenkins, vice president of Southern Oregon Black Leaders, Activists and Community Coalition, seeks to bring accountability to local government through better representation. Art instructor at Rogue Community College and co-founder of the Ashland Culture of Peace Commission, Kai brings her background as a Chinese immigrant, race awareness educator and 24-year member of the Ashland community. Muse is the newly appointed Director of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, selected for her robust career in equity, public policy and organizational change. OSF Artistic Director Garrett will also hold a seat on the commission, backed by 15 years in leadership roles with accompanying equity, diversity and inclusion training. Simon’s legal career brings experience with the juvenile justice, foster care and public school systems and her recent efforts include action on the Black Alliance & Social Empowerment police liaison initiative and “Every Student Belongs” policy in the Medford School District. Precious Yamaguchi, associate professor of communications at Southern Oregon University, has published literature about communication and culture and teaches courses about international, intercultural, gender and digital communication topics. As an advisory body, commission duties include celebrating diversity, promoting economic opportunities for people of color, LGBTQ+ community members and people with disabilities, and offering space to address incidents of prejudice. The commission does not have investigatory or enforcement authority beyond the arrangement of “impartial, nonbinding, collaborative conciliatory services.”

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Thursday, July 1, 2021 |

‘THE SWEETNESS OF WATER’

ASHLAND HIGH GRAD’S DEBUT NOVEL SELECTED FOR OPRAH BOOK CLUB By Joe Zavala for ACC

The way Nathan Harris puts it, growing up in Ashland he was one of those kids who just wasn’t good at much. Science was a mystery, math broke his brain. But he always loved stories, reading them and telling them. After he wrote one for an assignment at Briscoe Elementary in Ashland, he tossed it into a bin with all the others for students to pick through. Then something interesting happened. “I just remember there being something of a line to read mine and thinking, oh, maybe this is something I could do,” he said. “It was a thrill that I hadn’t found anywhere else.” It’s safe to say that Harris, a 2010 Ashland High graduate, experienced that thrill again recently and is poised to feel it a million times over in the coming months after receiving a call that most first-time novelists could only fantasize about from the Queen of all Media herself, Oprah Winfrey. The iconic former daytime talk show host and book lover announced Tuesday live on CBS This Morning that Harris’ debut novel “The Sweetness of Water” was the latest pick for Oprah’s Book Club. As part of the announcement, Harris was interviewed in the studio by Oprah, who appeared remotely, and CBS This Morning co-host Tony Dokoupil. The endorsement means instant exposure for Harris and his book, which has received rave reviews from The New York Times, The Washington Post, Publishers Weekly and many others. Buyers have responded accordingly. On Wednesday, “The Sweetness of Water” had two user reviews and wasn’t ranked in any of Amazon’s various metrics. By Friday, it had 30 user reviews and was ranked No. 85 in the Kindle store and No. 1 on the site in three different subcategories — gay and lesbian, Southern United States fiction and gay fiction.

PHOTO BY LAUREL SAGER

Ashland High alum Nathan Harris’ debut novel, “The Sweetness of Water,” has been named by Oprah Winfrey as her next book club pick.

A historical fiction novel, “The Sweetness of Water” tells the story of two freed slaves, brothers Prentiss and Landry, who go to work for a grief-stricken Georgian farmer soon after the conclusion of the Civil War. Harris said he learned of Oprah’s interest about two months ago. “It’s a very big surprise and it’s very secretive,” he said. “She talked to the head publisher and the editor and that’s it. There was only two or three people who knew at (publisher) Little, Brown and they just told me there was news and I didn’t know what the news was. And next thing you know I’m getting a phone call from Oprah herself.” Harris, who turns 30 in November, said he could hardly believe it and even suspected a prank, but all his doubts quickly evaporated the second he heard one of the most recognizable voices in the world on the other end of the line. “We had about a 10-minute talk and it was surreal,” Harris said of that first conversation with Oprah. “She had clearly read the book closer than most and she had all these parts underlined – ‘Oh, Nathan, I love this part, I love that part.’ I was utterly speechless. She asked me a few questions and then she said, ‘Let’s stop with the questions, we’re going to do a full interview soon.’ It was just a stupendous moment. It

felt like my dream was coming true.” After graduating from AHS then from the University of Oregon in 2014, Harris moved to San Francisco, where he wrote much of the novel during off hours when he wasn’t working. Yes, he worked for the food delivery service Postmates. No, that wasn’t the only job he had, and when asked about it Harris chuckled at how, in the recent publicity swarm, reporters seem to have fallen in love with the romanticism of the Postmates story (even Dokoupil mentioned it during CBS’s 7-minute segment). “I delivered Postmates, but they like to spin that story,” Harris said. “I did other things, too, but that was one of the things I did. They love that. My mom is still an attorney in Phoenix, (Arizona), with my brother, Jacob, and I did legal assistant stuff with them from a distance, but I was doing other stuff as well. It’s not quite the rags to riches story.” As for the actual writing, Harris said he took a slowly-but-surely approach to “Sweetness,” working on it consistently without saddling himself with strict benchmark goals. “I always quote Jonathan Lethem, the author,” Harris said. “He says, ‘as long as you make contact with the work every day it’ll get done.’ So I never set a time period, never set a word count. I just

made sure that every morning before I started the other jobs I was doing I made the work my priority and I sat with it. Sometimes you’re re-writing a page, sometimes you’re just reading the work over, sometimes you’re writing 500 words, 200 words, whatever it may be. Just writing every day, it will get done. And that’s what I did.” Occasionally, Harris would share portions of the work-inprogress with his roommate, Mason Costantino, another Ashland High alum. Both felt it was pretty good. Soon thereafter Harris accepted a fellowship at the prestigious Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin, where he lives today. He hired an agent, Emily Forland at Brandt & Hochman, in 2019, and that summer signed with Little, Brown. Forland told Publishers Weekly that the deal included a “nice, substantial advance” for world English rights. That was a memorable day, Harris said. “There were a few celebrations, that’s for sure,” he said. “That’s the dream come true right there. There have been multiple dreams that have come true but getting a publishing contract in a world where that’s more and more difficult, that was everything to me. To have (editor) Ben George at Little, Brown trust my work and trust the book and usher it into the world, it

all just felt like it was going to materialize for me, all that I had worked for.” Harris said George was a sensitive editor whose dedication to the book made it better. That’s not to say they didn’t have arguments, but Harris said “they were fights like brothers have fights.” The hard work was well worth it according to book critics, who have showered upon “Sweetness” the kind of praise for which authors would happily sell their souls. It’s been lauded as “deeply moving” (Publishers Weekly), a book that “explores this liminal moment in our history with extraordinary sensitivity (Washington Post),” and Harris hailed as “a storyteller with bountiful insight and assurance (Kirkus).” Harris said reading reviews dissecting his own work was strange and a little scary. “As a book fan, a lot of these reviewers I’ve followed my entire adult life and I have read them closely, and now they’re talking about me,” he said. “I find myself sort of scrolling through them quickly because I’m afraid to … get to the negative part, but then the negative part doesn’t come. So it’s been crazy.” What’s next? Harris said he’ll be talking to a film agent soon about a possible film adaptation, but says speculation on that front is still premature. But he’s hopeful. Regarding his “Sweetness” follow up, Harris doesn’t want to get into any specifics. Instead, he’s chosen to heed the advice to Tobias Wolff and not speak of the work, lest it “harden the words.” What Harris will say is that he’s kept up his practice of writing every day and hopes that more books by him are on the horizon. Then Harris, who counts the Oregon Shakespeare Festival as an influence, as well as Ashland itself, made a request. “Try to put in there that everybody who’s reading it should head to Bloomsbury in Ashland to pick up a copy,” he said. “That’s my local shop.”

| Thursday, July 1, 2021 |

Ashland Community Connections | Revels

SAY THEIR NAMES

Collective requests project support from parks By Allayana Darrow for ACC

The Say Their Names collective requested support from the Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission as a permanent art installation project at Railroad Park moves forward. APRC owns property on which the collective hopes to erect artwork honoring and celebrating Black lives. Collective member Jessica Freedman said the group recently scheduled a work party to maintain the fence, with organizational help from APRC volunteer and special event coordinator Sulaiman Shelton. The existing temporary installation in Railroad Park — installed June 28, 2020, marking the anniversary of Black exclusion laws passed in Oregon and reinstalled in August after vandalism — has “proven able to humanize and actualize the emotions of people who may not have another outlet or realize they need another outlet,”

PHOTO BY JAMIE LUSCH

Johnna Hockensmith, of Texas, takes a photo of the Say Their Names installation at the Ashland Railroad Park.

Freedman said. “It has inspired people to other social justice action in our community.” A permanent installation offers a platform for continued education and progression on ongoing community issues, represents an important message about the city’s identity and will work harmoniously with the planned HUB sculpture

honoring Chinese railroad workers, Freedman said. Many people continue to seek ways to heal after Aidan Ellison’s murder Nov. 23, 2020, and reflect on the “short-lived lip service” that followed the incident — an unfortunate template of the Black experience in the U.S., she said. Perpetuating the unanswered question of whether Black lives

matter in Ashland makes it harder to attract people of color to live, work and visit here, Freedman said. Freedman presented four artist proposals to APRC, including a painted mural on the ground along the bike path, with designs laid into the text “Black Lives Matter.” Freedman requested support from APRC as the collective begins a campaign to raise $100,000 for the project through grants, city support and public donations. Commissioner Rick Landt said with HUB sculpture installation slated to begin this fall, the Railroad Park site may soon become crowded, and encouraged exploration of other parks with more space to accommodate some of the sculpture proposals, “with room to breathe and stretch out.” The bike path mural suits Railroad Park’s available space ideally, but other designs may have a more powerful effect elsewhere, he said.

Collective member Tia Laida Fe said the group aims to keep the “living” fenceline installation intact so long as the community is willing to maintain it, in addition to the larger proposed pieces of artwork. Actively maintaining the fence — where T-shirts, artwork, flowers and posters remind passersby to remember the names of the victims of inequity and racism — is a way for white community members and business owners to show solidarity, while the permanent installation responds to what the Black community has said would be uplifting, she said. “Clearly the Say Their Names memorial is honoring, it also seems like it’s an exercise for the white community,” Laida Fe said. “I think that having both then holds both up, and keeps the white community with this opportunity to keep showing their love and their care and their desire to make change in that way.”

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THURSDAY, July 1, 2021

music nature WHERE

MEETS

Composer Caroline Shaw and Britt Festival Orchestra conductor Teddy Abrams walk through the Jacksonville Woodlands. JAMIE LUSCH / ACC

The Britt Festival Orchestra offers a melodic walk through woodland trails, plus a city ‘Soundwalk’ highlights places of interest around historic Jacksonville SEE PAGE 10

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| Thursday, July 1, 2021

Ashland Community Connections | Revels

COVER STORY

BRITT FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA: ‘BRUSH’ AND ‘SOUNDWALK’

‘A SPECIAL GIFT’ TO MUSIC LOVERS By Sarah Lemon for Tempo

ounds of the Britt Festival Orchestra transcend its typical concert venue this summer, transporting audiences into nature. Two Pulitzer Prize-winning composers headline Britt’s orchestra season for six performances and an interactive experience in and around Jacksonville — all free to the public. The two musical “installations” epitomize Britt’s efforts to bring its orchestra into distinctive outdoor settings, emphasizing intersections between music and nature. At the core of Britt’s mission, these special summer events build on the orchestra’s 2016 Crater Lake Project. “It’s a very unconventional season for us,” says Britt Music Director and Conductor Teddy Abrams. “It really is a special gift to the people of Southern Oregon.” Giving back following last year’s catastrophic wildfires is a driving force behind Britt’s orchestra season, says Marketing Director Mike Gantenbein. And although the two special projects — “Soundwalk” and “Brush: JAMIE LUSCH / TEMPO Music in the Woodlands” — were Caroline Shaw, who spent two years composing “Brush: Music in the Woodlands,” and Britt Festiconceived well before the coronavirus val Orchestra Music Director and Conductor Teddy Abrams at the Jacksonville Woodlands behind pandemic, they guaranteed musical the Britt Art & Music Festival. events at Britt amid recent uncer“It definitely brought a different resonance and a different tainties around large-scale public gatherings, says Gantenbein. meaning to the project,” says composer Ellen Reid of the “It definitely brought a different pandemic’s effects on her “Soundwalk,” which Britt hosts resonance and a different meaning to the project,” says composer Ellen beginning July 1 as public artwork activated by GPS. Reid of the pandemic’s effects on her “Soundwalk,” which Britt hosts record — her composition for editing by choosing their routes for hiking beginning July 1. into “one big ensemble,” says Reid. In about 2 miles of Jacksonville WoodUsing music to illuminate natuaddition to classical, music styles in lands trails adjacent to the Britt ral environments, “Soundwalk” is “Soundwalk” include electronic, jazz grounds. Musicians positioned at a public artwork activated by GPS. and pop. various points along the trails play Since Reid’s recent visit to Southern Reid traveled to Jacksonville earlier individual segments of Caroline Oregon, Jacksonville’s “Soundwalk” this month to install the piece, which Shaw’s world premiere composition joins installations in New York City, audiences hear using a free app that commissioned by Britt. can be downloaded on mobile devices. Los Angeles, Philadelphia, San FranShaw spent the past two years Acknowledging Jacksonville’s composing “Brush” since working cisco and smaller cities in New York, “layers of history,” Reid associated with Britt as its 2019 Composer/ California and Virginia. Britt, says Conductor Fellow. Awarded the 2013 Reid, was one of the project’s original “Soundwalk” with places of interest around town, including its historical Pulitzer Prize in Music — the youngest co-commissioners. cemetery. recipient ever in that category at age “The project needs to stretch to fill “It has a lot of entry points,” says 30 — Shaw says “Brush” is her first all those different locations,” says Reid. “Depending on where you are, composition inspired by a specific Reid, who was awarded the 2019 the music moves in different ways. location. Pulitzer Prize in Music. “It always “The listener gets to be a creative “It’s so unusual in every way,” she adds a really nice flavor to have a local force.” says. “You’re basically hearing a song orchestra.” Audiences also actively participate or a piece of music in pieces.” Britt’s orchestra musicians worked in “Brush: Music in the Woodlands” Written for a mix of strings, individually to play — and remotely

woodwinds and brass, “Brush” implies both a surprise encounter and painting as a metaphor for musical composition, with notes evoking brushstrokes, says Shaw. After touring the trail system, she identified nine sites suited to performers, including a string quartet, French horn trio, a clarinet soloist and a solo vocalist. “I really think about what they would like to play,” says Shaw. Some sounds will be audible up close, others heard far away, she says. Participants may walk for five minutes without hearing anything, other than nature’s own symphony. The suggested route with accompanying map, however, does encourage audiences to keep moving, rather than listening to musicians in one spot repeatedly play the same phrases. “There’s no way to hear it all,” says Abrams. “There’s no recording that can capture it.” The entire experience takes about an hour, concluding in the Britt Pavilion, where 14 orchestra members will play the entire composition. Shaw likens the style to chamber music, rather than a “grand design.” Such projects inspire people to “think bigger” about Britt, says Abrams. These two, in particular, acknowledge the “key role” public lands have played over the past year as Americans turned to nature to cope with the pandemic. “This is a celebration of that.” “Soundwalk” is available through Oct. 15. See ellenreidsoundwalk.com/ download Performances of “Brush” are planned for 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday through Monday, July 30 through Aug. 2. Additional performances from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. are planned for Saturday and Sunday, July 31 and Aug. 1. Although “Brush” is free, advance registration is required to assist traffic flow and minimize environmental impact. Register at brittfest.org. For patrons who are unable to walk the Woodlands trails, Britt is offering a performance of “Brush” at the Britt Art & Musical Festival on Aug. 2. Patrons may sit in the bench seating or on the ADA pads and enjoy the full performance. The performance will begin at 7:30 p.m. Reservations are required at brittfest.org. Contact the Britt Box Office for additional assistance at 541-773-6077.

Ashland Community Connections | Revels

Thursday, July 1, 2021 |

LIVE EVENTS

LOCAL MUSIC, GROWERS MARKETS & MORE Editor’s note: Because of changing COVID-19 restrictions in Jackson County, please call businesses or check their websites to confirm all listed events. All Jackson County library branches are open, and in-branch browsing will be available with certain restrictions. COVID-19 vaccine registration assistance is available at each branch. Limited computer sessions will be offered on a firstcome, first-served basis.

Thursday, July 1 Medford Growers Market: Fresh and organic seasonal produce, crafts and food carts are available from local farms and vendors from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursdays through Nov. 18, in Hawthorne Park, corner of East Jackson and Hawthorne streets, Medford. Masks are required. Social distancing and safety measures are in place. See rvgrowersmarket.com. Comedy Improv Sessions: Mighty Medford Improvers host free improvisational comedy practice from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursdays at Bear Creek Park, located at the corner of Siskiyou Boulevard and Highland Drive, Medford. The sessions are led by Thomas Hartmann, who trained with Second City Chicago. All levels of experience are welcome. CDC and OHA recommendations will be followed. Bringing a chair is recommended. Email forinfoman44@gmail.com. Josh Paul: Guitarist and singer Josh Paul will perform a blend of Americana, rock, country, and blues at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 1, at Grape Street Bar & Grill, 31 S. Grape St., Medford. See grapestreetbarandgrill.com or call 541-500-8881.

Friday, July 2 Daniel Meyer Pool: The outdoor pool at 1705 Homes Ave. in Ashland is open for lap and recreational swimming. The Daniel Meyer Memorial Pool will follow all guidance from the Oregon Health Authority to keep everyone safe during the COVID19 pandemic. For information on swim schedules and lessons, see ashland.or.us/swim.

Children’s Social Skill Builder: Anna Minter will present “Social Skills for Superheroes” at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 2, at the Rogue River library, 412 E. Main St. This program for kids will focus on building self-confidence and comfort in different situations and includes a special Take & Make craft kit to take home. For further details or to register, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-582-1714. Jeff Kloetzel: Singer, songwriter and guitar player Jeff Kloetzel will play an acoustic mix of pop, folk and soul, along with original songs at 5 p.m. Friday, July 2, at DANCIN Vineyards, 4477 S. Stage Road, Medford. Admission is free. Call 541-245-1133 or see dancin.com. Money Beats: The trio — singer and guitarist Sydney Williamson, Jeff Williamson on upright acoustic bass and rhythm instruments, and Emily Blesse on the electric piano — will perform a mix of classic rock and pop, and their own original songs, at 5 p.m. Friday, July 2, at Rellik Winery and Alpaca Farm, 970 Old Stage Road, Central Point. See rellikwinery.com or call 541-499-0449. Slopes & Trails: Slopes & Trails will host a free meet-andgreet at 5 p.m. Friday, July 2, at Centennial Golf Club, 1900 N. Phoenix Road, Medford. The nonprofit organization provides social and recreational activities. See slopes.org. Lily Jo’s Revolution: The trio Lily Jo’s Revolution will perform plugged-in acoustic soulful originals along with select covers at 5:30 p.m. Friday, July 2, at Dunbar Farms Rocky Knoll Winery, 2881 Hillcrest Road, Medford. Admission is free. See dunbarfarms. com or call 541-414-3363. Doug Warner& Greg Frederick: Blues singer-songwriter Doug Warner and bassist Greg Frederick will perform at 5:30 p.m. Friday, July 2, at Hummingbird Estate Winery, 1677 Old Stage Road, Central Point. See hummingbirdestate.com or call 541-930-2650.

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| Thursday, July 1, 2021

Ashland Community Connections | Revels

STAGE

TWO MUSICAL SHOWS IN THE OFFING

SUMMER THEATER CAMP, CONSERVATORY ARE A GO By Jim Flint for ACC

wo Southern Oregon young artist programs are uniting to offer theatrical training for students ages 7 to 19, culminating in public performances this summer of “Charlotte’s Web” and the Broadway musical smash-hit “All Shook Up.” Joining forces are the Oregon Conservatory of Performing Arts (OCPA) and the Camelot Theatre in Talent. They’ll offer two separate programs this summer, in Medford and Talent. The arrangement allows the two organizations to share resources. “The collaboration has been in the works for two years,” said Dann Hauser, executive director of Camelot. “We are excited to finally be able to make this partnership a reality and in-person for students in 2021.” Hauser believes that merging OCPA’s educational structures with Camelot’s professional working theater experience is a winning combination. OCPA board member and instructor Andrea Brock agrees. “We can provide a certified program for our students, which documents their training,” she said, “allowing them to earn a certificate of initial mastery or advanced mastery in several areas of theater arts.” OCPA’s role is to focus on training in theater arts rather than performance driven rehearsals. Camelot’s focus will be on theatrical production. Courses will be offered year-round. This summer’s programs divide students into two separate age groups. Summer Theatre Camp for ages 7 to 13 will be held

ANDY ATKINSON / ACC

Tyrone Wilson reads through a script with Benen Lups, Gavin Lupes and Cody Lynn at the Camelot Theatre in Talent.

at Hedrick Middle School in Medford. There will be three weeks of instruction July 5-23, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., concluding with two performances of “Charlotte’s Web” at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. on July 24 at Hendrick. The musical will include live accompaniment. Theatre Conservatory for ages 13 to 19 is being held at Camelot Theatre in Talent. There will be six weeks of training and rehearsals through Aug. 1, culminating with five performances of “All Shook Up” July 30 to Aug. 1 at Camelot. There will be 2 p.m. matinees all three days and 7 p.m. performances Friday and Saturday. The jukebox musical tribute features songs of Elvis Presley and will utilize pre-recorded tracks. A rehearsal accompanist will help with the learning process. Tuition is $395 for the Hedrick program for younger students. Financial aid is

available for those who qualify. Find applications at oregonconservatory.org. An all-star cast of instructors has been lined up to assist with this summer’s programs: Tyrone Wilson, a veteran OSF performer (25 seasons), also is a drama instructor, director and actor with international credits. He has an MFA degree from Yale University School of Drama. Jonathan Luke Stevens, an OSF actor (five seasons), also is a director and choreographer. He has worked in New York City, Los Angeles, Seattle and at many regional theaters. He has a BFA degree in musical theater from The Boston Conservatory. Andrew Brock is a tenor who has performed with Eugene Opera, Eugene Symphony, Oregon Bach Festival and at the Aspen Music Festival. For the past 24 years, he has taught college-level voice courses, elementary music, and has directed middle and

high school choirs. He has a master’s degree in voice and music education from the University of Oregon. Dennis Foster is co-founder of OCPA and currently serves as board president and director of curriculum and instruction. He has a bachelor’s degree in education from Portland State University with master’s coursework in theater production at Central Washington University. Rounding out the team of professionals are Andrea Brock (co-producer with Andrew Brock of “Charlotte’s Web”), Christopher Burkhardt (a former OSF stage manager), and music director Taylor Pulsipher (a BYU grad in vocal performance and long-time Southern Oregon musical theater professional). Additional teachers may be added. OCPA is the longest-running educational theater program for youths in the

Rogue Valley, founded in 1998. Through its programs, students gain training in theater history, playwriting, acting, musical theater, dance, stage presence, voice, singing, and auditioning. They can earn certification credit in OCPA’s college prep program, demonstrating their successful course mastery. For more than 16 years, Camelot Conservatory has offered theatrical training for students ages 9 to 19, culminating in a fully-staged Broadway musical on a professional stage. “Uniting our programs offers certified year-round comprehensive training in theater arts,” Hauser said. “We are excited to bring our programs together.” OCPA board president Foster sees combining resources of two successful programs as creating new opportunities. “Between our two groups,” Foster said, “we can cover all age ranges, from 7 to 19.” Openings are limited, and enrollment is first-come, first-served, with no auditions required. Auditions are used only to cast parts for the two productions. Former students, Hauser said, have gone on to perform locally in professional theater, with OSF, and at theaters in New York, Seattle and Los Angeles after attending theater schools. To register for either program or to buy tickets for “Charlotte’s Web,” visit oregonconservatory.org. To purchase tickets for “All Shook Up,” go to camelottheatre.org. You can reach Ashland writer Jim Flint at jimflint.ashland@ yahoo.com.

Ashland Community Connections | Revels

Thursday, July 1, 2021 |

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STREAMING

TRY THESE MUSIC PODCASTS FOR YOUR SUMMER ROAD TRIP 2010 “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy,” and the current eighth season examines West’s 2013 confrontational tour de force “Yeezus.” The stellar season closed out Monday with Yeezus’ final song, “Bound 2.” Previous seasons are widely available, but this one is only on Spotify.

By Dan DeLuca

The Philadelphia Inquirer

treaming services put all the world’s music at your fingertips, but serious fans crave more than that. They need artist interviews, granular looks back at classics, and grand narratives laced with surprise. Great music podcasts cover all those bases. Road trip season is podcast season, and the music podcasts we’re recommending here offer satisfying aural companionship, taking varied approaches to storytelling and spanning multiple genres. All these podcasts are easily searchable and widely available, unless otherwise noted.

‘Difficult Artist’

‘Cocaine & Rhinestones’ The greatness of this country music podcast from Tyler Mahan Coe, now in the middle of its second season, can be measured by its introductions and digressions. The opening episode takes its time getting around to George Jones, the hero of the season, starting with a fascinating interlude about the secret history of pinball and its role in music. The second show, about producer Owen Bradley, begins with Little Richard’s “Tutti Frutti,” and teaches you more than you thought you needed to know about the history of refrigeration. Coe is the son of Outlaw Country singer David Allan Coe. “I’ve heard these stories all my life. As far as I can tell, here’s the truth about this one” is his trademark opening. Coe’s delivery takes some getting used to, but the two-hour episodes are full of cogent analysis and entertaining detail. Sirius XM host Elizabeth Cook calls it “the ‘War and Peace’ of country music podcasts.”

‘Questlove Supreme’ Besides being a drummer, author, and now movie director (of the documentary “Summer of Soul,” premiering July 2 on Hulu), the Roots’ Ahmir Thompson also, of course, has a podcast — working with producer Layla St. Clair and co-hosts including Phonte Coleman. Questlove calls it “the Black nerd version of NPR.” Last month’s guests on the weekly show have included The Jacksons, actress Tracee Ellis Ross

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and sample-mad Australian band The Avalanches, whose 2001 debut “Since I Left You” Questlove puts on his all-time top-10 list. The show also regularly reups “QLS” classic episodes, including a two-parter with Prince guitarist Jesse Johnson and an interview with political commentator Angela Rye.

‘Midnight Miracle’ Dave Chappelle is joined by Talib Kweli and Yasiin Bey on this conversational podcast recorded last summer in the midst of Chappelle’s Summer Camp run of outdoor shows in Ohio. Philly music alert: The first episode came together just as the trio learned of the death of Malik B., the rapper who split front-man duties with Black Thought in the early days of the Roots. Bey delivers a Malik B. appreciation and raps thrillingly over The Roots “100% Dundee.” This first episode is widely available, but next three are only for subscribers to the Luminary app.

‘Dissect’ Each season of Cole Cuchna’s podcast fastidiously breaks down one album, with an emphasis on hip-hop and R&B. He began with Kendrick Lamar’s “To Pimp a Butterfly” and has devoted subsequent series to Beyonce, Frank Ocean, Childish Gambino and Tyler, the Creator. Cuchna previously zeroed in on Kanye West’s

“How do brilliant, creative minds do what they do?” Author and University of Pennsylvania grad Lizzy Goodman aims to answer that question on this new podcast. She’s best known for her oral history “Meet Me in the Bathroom,” about the New York rock scene in the ‘00s, but “Difficult Artist” goes beyond music. The first is with Maggie Rogers, and subsequent ones are shows with Trent Reznor, Liz Phair, visual artist Shantell Martin and comedian Whitney Cummings.

Songs in the Key of Death’ Hosted by Courtney E. Smith, this is a true-crime and music podcast about murder ballads, the traditional folk and country songs that often romanticize cold-blooded killers. The first episode, which debuts June 16, concerns “Delia’s Gone,” which helped revive Johnny Cash’s career on his 1994 “American Recordings.” Smith goes back to 1900 to bring to life Delia Green, the Black teenager who was the original inspiration for the song. Sadie Dupuis, the Philadelphia songwriter who records as Sad13, sings a new version, in which Delia’s death is avenged. Dupuis and Bonnie Prince Billy will take turns recording new versions in subsequent episodes.

‘The 25 O’Clock Podcast’ Hosted by Dan Drago, bass player in the Philly band Love Cartel, “The 25 O’Clock” bills itself as “Philadelphia’s longest-running music podcast.” Who’s to argue? Drago recorded his 200th episode last month, with WXPN DJ and scene supporter Helen Leicht. Last week’s guest was Brian Walker, of the Philly band A Day Without Love, and recent episodes with musicians and behindthe-scenes players have focused on singers Susan Werner and Ali Awan and promoter Jesse Lundy.

‘Digging Deep With Robert Plant’

The Led Zeppelin Golden God teams with journalist Matt Everitt to trace the roots and branches of one song per episode from Plant’s career. It’s back for season four after a pandemic break, and the subject of the first installment is “Bluebirds Over the Mountain,” a song originally cut by Ersel Hickey in 1958 that was later recorded by Ritchie Valens, the Beach Boys and the charming, erudite Plant himself, in a 2017 duet with Chrissie Hynde.

‘Renegades: Born in the USA’ Barack Obama and Bruce Springsteen’s Spotify podcast — just two super famous guys sitting around talking about masculinity, music and a divided nation — was released to much ballyhoo in February. They’re cautious men, so don’t expect revelations, but they’re also expert conversationalists and enjoyable company. For more fun, check out Springsteen’s excellent “From My Home to Yours” show on Sirius XM.

‘Jill Scott Presents: J.ill: The Podcast’ The Philadelphia star launched this podcast last November. It’s not music-centric — a typical topic is “Therapy vs. Self-Care vs. Praying The Pain Away” — but music people figure prominently. The series is an ongoing discussion among Jilly from Philly, “Questlove Supreme’s” Layla St. Clair and Aja Graydon-Dantzler of neo-soul duo Kindred the Family Soul. Last week’s episode considered whether Hollywood has veered too far into “trauma porn” with Black historical films like “Antebellum.” Scott and Dantzler also share music industry wisdom that budding artists would do well to soak up.

‘No Skips with Jinx and Shea’ This Spotify pod celebrates “unskippable” hip-hop albums with “The Rap Yearbook” author Shea Serrano and his partner Brandon “Jinx” Jenkins, a winning team. Recent episodes have dug into Kendrick Lamar’s “good kid, m.A.A.d. City,” 50 Cent’s “Get Rich or Die Tryin’,” Lil’ Kim’s “Hardcore” and Lil Wayne’s “Tha Carter III.” Insightful and engaging, highly recommended.

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Ashland Community Connections | Revels

LIVE From Page A11

Sips & Songs: Troon Vinyard will host a dinner with live music by the 18-piece Southern Oregon Jazz Orchestra from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. the first Saturday of each month. Tickets are $50 with dinner; $25 for admission only. All admissions include either a complimentary flight or glass. Reservations are required. Email at faith@troonvineyard.com or call 541-846-9900 ext. 1. 33 String Drive: Holly Burley on the upright bass, fiddler Lily McCabe, Jeffery Jones on the mandolin, Bob Evoniuk on the Dobro, banjoist Rick Nelson and guitarist Ray Frey will perform hard-driving bluegrass and acoustic Americana, along with original music and arrangements, at 6 p.m. Friday, July 2, at La Baguette Music Café, 340 A St., Ashland. Admission is free. For more information, go to facebook.com/sobluegrass or call 541-488-0178. Tobago Breeze: Led by drummer Dave Bolen, along with bassist Donnie Yance, percussionist Reed Bentley, guitarist Al Dinardi, and keyboardist Joel Clifft, Tobago Breeze, will a mix of steel drum jazz, R&B, funk, Calypso, Latin and reggae at 6 p.m. Friday, July 2, at RoxyAnn Winery, 3285 Hillcrest Road, Medford. See roxyann.com or call 541-776-2315. Steve Hopkins & Band of Brothers: Guitarist Steve Hopkins and his jazz group, Band of Brothers, will perform at 6 p.m. Friday, July 2, at South Stage Cellars, 125 S. Third St., Jacksonville. See southstagecellars.com or call 541-899-9120. John Dabaco: Jazz pianist John Dabaco will perform standards and classics at 6 p.m. every Friday and Saturday, at the Hearsay Restaurant, Lounge and Garden, 40 S. First St., Ashland. See hearsayashland.com or call 541-625-0505. Bishop Mayfield: The soul singer and his band, featuring guitarist David Storie, will perform original songs and covers of R&B, funk, soul and blues-rock at 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 2, at Grizzly Peak Winery, 1600 E. Nevada St., Ashland. Admission is $15. Must be 21 or older to attend. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. See grizzlypeakwinery.com or call 541-482-5700. Highway Bound: The country music trio featuring Erica Flynn

on vocals, and guitarists Jimi and Alex Detweiler will perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 2, at Grape Street Bar & Grill, 31 S. Grape St., Medford. See grapestreetbarandgrill.com or call 541-500-8881. Ghost Bomber: Ghost Bomber will hold a debut album-release party at 8 p.m. Friday, July 2, at Johnny B’s, 120 E. 6th St., Medford. See jbsmedford.com or call 458-226-2722.

Saturday, July 3 Ashland Saturday Market: Fresh and organic seasonal produce, bakery items, artisan food, plants and other goods are available from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays through Oct. 30, along Oak Street in downtown Ashland. Social distancing and safety measures are in place. See rvgrowersmarket.com. Grants Pass Growers Market: Find local seasonal produce, baked goods, beverages and more from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays in downtown Grants Pass, at Fourth and F streets. Masks are required while in the market. See growersmarket.org. Medford Cars & Coffee: Car enthusiasts can meet from 9 to 10:30 a.m. every Saturday at 2780 E. Barnett Road, Medford, near Starbucks and Mountain Mike’s Pizza. The group will not hold meetings in the event of rain or snowy weather. Find Medford Cars and Coffee on Facebook for further information. Lithia Artisans Market: More than 40 artisans display and sell handcrafted items from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through December along Calle Guanajuato, the pedestrian walkway behind the downtown plaza that runs next to Ashland Creek in Ashland. Safety measures will be in effect, masks are required, and social distancing will be enforced. Call 541-3019811 or see lithiaartisansmarket. com ScienceWorks Hands-On Museum: A variety of interactive science exhibits are available at the museum, located at 1500 E. Main St., Ashland. The interactive museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Many exhibits will be modified to reduce touch surfaces — fewer hands-on activities — and increase physical distancing. Exhibits that will be temporarily closed include Bubble-ology, the Jam Room, SEE LIVE, A15

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Dark Science and Pacific Crest Cove. Masks will be required for visitors ages 5 and up, and recommended for children ages 2 through 4. Staff and volunteers will be masked. Admission is $12.50, $10.50 for ages 2 through 12 and 65 and older, and free for kids under age 2.To purchase tickets or for more information, see scienceworksmuseum.org or call 541-482-6767. Walk through History: Take a walk though Jacksonville’s history during a one-hour guided tour at 10 a.m. every Saturday through Sept. 4. The tour leaves from Jacksonville’s Courthouse Square, in front of City Hall, 206 N. Fifth St., Jacksonville. Visit government and commercial buildings, fraternal lodges and homes. Learn how gambling money built a church; how the Civil War ended a successful mercantile partnership; how fire reshaped the town and a railroad both destroyed and preserved it, and more. Admission is free, reservations required. Call 541-245-3650 or email info@ historicjacksonville.org. Gathering of Goodness: Yoga For Your Ears, Johnny B’s & Vibe One Music will present a free all-day event “Gathering of Goodness” from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, July 3, at the Open Air Stage in Bear Creek Park, located at the corner of Siskiyou Boulevard and Highland Drive, Medford. Look for food, art and craft vendors, art demonstrations and live music by The Frankie Hernandez Band, SmileyT & The Tall Trees, Cornflower, Messenjah Selah and many more. For further information, find “The Gathering Of Goodness” on Facebook.com. Gold Hill Treasure Hunt: Children ages 5 to 11 are invited to meet the “ghost” of Clem Hawkins, who will reveal “The Lost Treasure of Gold Hill” and send them on an interactive treasure hunt, from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 3, beginning at Lucky’s, 336 Second Ave., and ending at the riverside beach area in Gold Hill. The adventure begins when Hawkins, the 1850s miner, comes back to Earth to announce the location of his lost treasure. Before gaining the riches, however, seekers must first prove they are worthy by undergoing three trials. Along the way, they will encounter the Game Master, where they prove

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Daniel Meyer Pool The outdoor pool at 1705 Homes Ave. in Ashland is open for lap and recreational swimming. The Daniel Meyer Memorial Pool will follow all guidance from the Oregon Health Authority to keep everyone safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. For information on swim schedules and lessons, see ashland.or.us/swim.

their skill; the Quiz Master, where they prove their wisdom; and then they journey through the Sea of Peril, where they prove their courage. At the end of the trials, they are awarded a victory medallion and treasure map. Following clues, they finally discover the treasure’s location and dig up small chests near Gold Hill’s newly restored river beach. Admission is free. However, however the event is limited to the first 200 children, all which must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult. The hunt takes approximately one hour. For more information, see cityofgoldhill.com or email questions to waitingstar@charter.net. Dayton Mason: Gypsy jazz singer, songwriter and guitarist Dayton Mason will perform at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 3, at Augustino Estate at The Big Red Barn, 16995 N. Applegate Road, Grants Pass. See augustinoestate.com or call 541-846-1881. Jeff Kloetzel: Singer, songwriter and guitar player Jeff Kloetzel will play an acoustic mix of pop, folk and soul, along with original songs at 4 p.m. Saturday, July 3, at Rellik Winery and Alpaca Farm, 970 Old Stage Road, Central Point. See rellikwinery.com or call 541-499-0449. Bim Jeam and the Sadness: Hear country, folk and blues acoustic music you can groove to when Bim Jeam and the Sadness performs at 5 p.m. Saturday, July 3, at Stone River Winery and

Vineyard, 2178 Pioneer Road, Talent. Call 541-631-9583. Holly Gleason: The singer, songwriter and guitarist will perform original folk along with a few covers at 6 p.m. Saturday, July 3, at South Stage Cellars, 125 S. Third St., Jacksonville. See southstagecellars.com or call 541-899-9120.

Sunday, July 4 Living Loving Led: Led Zeppelin tribute band — singer Natasha Lee Neece, guitarist Anthony Cusenza, bassist Mike Thompkins-Pugh, and drummer Michael Saint John — will perform covers at 4 p.m. Sunday, July 4, Belle Fiore Winery, 100 Belle Fiore Lane, Ashland. Admission is free. See bellefiorewine.com or call 541-552-4900.

Monday, July 5 Take & Make: Kids and their families can stop by any JCLS branch to pick up a take-and-make craft kit during select dates. Each branch offers a unique craft and all need supplies are included in the kit. For details, see jcls.org or call the library branch in your area.

Tuesday, July 6 Ashland Rogue Valley Growers & Crafters Market: Seasonal fruits and vegetables, crafts, specialty foods, drinks and more are available from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Nov. 23, at the National Guard Armory, 1420 E. Main St., Ashland. Masks are

required. Social distancing and safety measures are in place. See rvgrowersmarket.com. Social Benefit Dance Club: Dance to music performed by Darren Kuykendall at 1:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Rogue Valley Square Dance Center, 3377 Table Rock Road, Medford. You do not need a partner to participate. Admission is $5, $6. Call 541-727-7070. Community Music Jam: Bring an acoustic instrument of your choice, or just your voice to join in a time of acoustic, improvised music and well-known songs from 5 to 7 p.m. the first and third Tuesday of each month through July 20 on the patio of the Jacksonville Community Center, 160 E. Main St., Jacksonville. For further details, see jacksonvillecommunitycenter. org or call 541-702-2585.

Wednesday, July 7 Learn to Lead: Children ages 10 and older can meet with workers from Sanctuary One, an animal-care farm located in the Applegate Valley, at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 7, at the Ashland library, 410 Siskiyou Blvd. Learn what a day in the life of a Sanctuary One volunteer is like, and what skills their volunteers learn that can translate into real-world application. You’ll also get the chance to meet the Sanctuary One Goat Ambassadors — Ned, Lucky and Dusty. For further details or to register, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS

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Calendar or call 541-774-6980. Shae Celine: Singer Shae Celine will perform covers of popular music, jazz standards and torch songs at 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 7, at DANCIN Vineyards, 4477 S. Stage Road, Medford. Admission is free. Call 541-245-1133 or see dancin.com. Robbie DaCosta: Singer and guitarist Robbie DaCosta will perform a mix of pop, oldies and light rock at 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 7, at RoxyAnn Winery, 3285 Hillcrest Road, Medford. See roxyann.com or call 541-776-2315. Phil Reed: Phil Reed, member of the duo Brothers Reed, will perform original acoustic pop, blues and folk at 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 7, at South Stage Cellars, 125 S. Third St., Jacksonville. See southstagecellars.com or call 541-899-9120.

Thursday, July 8 Allison Scull and Victor Martin: Singer-songwriter and guitarist Allison Scull and sax player Victor Martin will play a mix of folk, jazz, blues and pop, along with Scull singing some of her original songs in French at 5 p.m. Thursday, July 8, at DANCIN Vineyards, 4477 S. Stage Road, Medford. Admission is free. Call 541-245-1133 or see dancin.com.

Friday, July 9 Haunted History Tour: Costumed docents lead hour-long tours the second Friday of each month from June through September with special tours the second weekend in October, in downtown Jacksonville. Guests will be introduced to some of the town’s historic buildings along with the restless ghosts and spirits who still occupy them. The 7 and 7:30 p.m. courthouse tour features stories of brothels, epidemics and hangings. The 7:15 and 7:45 p.m. Britt Hill tour shares tales of arson, saloons and Oregon’s first Chinatown. Tours are $10, and reservations are required. Reservations must be made on-line at historicjacksonville. org/haunted-history-tours, no later than 4 p.m. on the day of the tour. Tours leave from the Jacksonville Visitors Center at the corner of N. Oregon and C streets. Tour guests who are not fully vaccinated will be asked to wear masks as a courtesy to tour guides and other guests. Proceeds go to the maintenance of Jacksonville’s historic SEE LIVE, A16

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buildings. Call 541-245-3650 for reservations. For additional information see historicjacksonville.org or email at info@ historicjacksonville.org for information or call 541-245-3650. Pacifica: Vocalist Alissa Weaver, guitarist and vocalist Jack Fischer, and drummer Michael Whipple will perform at 5 p.m. Friday, July 9, at Rellik Winery and Alpaca Farm, 970 Old Stage Road, Central Point. See rellikwinery.com or call 541-499-0449. Movies in the Park: Find family-friendly movie fun under the stars at Bear Creek Park, located at the corner of Siskiyou Boulevard and Highland Drive, Medford. Movies begin at dusk every Friday evening through the end of August. On July 9, “Spies in Disguise” will be shown. Call 541-447-2400 or see playmedford.com. Delilah Beaucoup: Singer Delilah Beaucoup will perform a mix of French gypsy jazz, blues and jazz standards at 5:30 p.m. Friday, July 9, at Dunbar Farms Rocky Knoll Winery, 2881 Hillcrest Road, Medford. Admission is free. See dunbarfarms.com or call 541-414-3363. Dennis and Ryan Duo: Singer and guitarist Dennis Konecny, along with Ryan Johnson, will perform at 5:30 p.m. Friday, July 9, at Hummingbird Estate Winery, 1677 Old Stage Road, Central Point. See hummingbirdestate. com or call 541-930-2650. Shine Jazz Trio: The jazz trio, led by Steve Shine, will perform vintage jazz and classic swing at 6 p.m. Friday, July 9, at South Stage Cellars, 125 S. Third St., Jacksonville. See southstagecellars.com or call 541-899-9120. Family Fun Night: The Pregnancy Center will hold an outdoor family-friendly carnival from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, July 9, at the Outdoor Pavillion at Trail Christian Fellowship, 18881 Highway 62, Eagle Point. Look for food, carnival games, live music by BrokenWorks with Jenni Abdo, and a comedy show by Aaron O’Brien. Admission is $10, or $25 per family. All proceeds go to The Pregnancy Center. Call 541-772-1921 or see tpcpartners. us/july. Living Loving Led: Led Zeppelin tribute band — singer Natasha Lee Neece, guitarist Anthony Cusenza, bassist Mike Thompkins-Pugh, and drummer Michael

Saint John — will perform covers at 6 p.m. Friday, July 9, at RoxyAnn Winery, 3285 Hillcrest Road, Medford. See roxyann.com or call 541-776-2315. Duke Street: Rhythm and soul band Duke Street — Scott Rogers on guitar, Kent Clinkinbeard on drums, John Hauschild on slide guitar and vocals, Gordon Greenley on saxophone, Joe Cohoon on bass and Michael Vannice on keys — will perform at 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 9, at Grizzly Peak Winery, 1600 E. Nevada St., Ashland. Admission is $15. Must be 21 or older to attend. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. See grizzlypeakwinery.com or call 541-482-5700. Amerikan Metal Project, Visidian, Hellametal and Thy Farewell: The metal bands will play at 8 p.m. Friday, July 9, at Johnny B’s, 120 E. 6th St., Medford. See jbsmedford.com or call 458-226-2722.

Saturday, July 10 Historic Cemetery Stroll: Explore a part of Jacksonville’s Historic Cemetery at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 10, during a docent-led tour. The cemetery is at the top of Cemetery Road. The topic to be covered is “Cemetery Superstitions.” The guided tours are free, although donations are accepted. Masks are required unless fully vaccinated, and social distancing will be enforced. Call 541-826-9939 or see friendsjvillecemetery.org. The Sword in the Tome: Pre-teens and teens, ages 12 to 18 years, can learn about swords and their symbolism in literature at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 10, at the Applegate library, 18485 N. Applegate Road. From Arthur’s mythical blade Excalibur to Luke’s inherited lightsaber, swords are as much symbols in literature as they are tools for the characters. A brief fight choreography lesson will follow the discussion. For further details or to register, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-846-7346. Rogue Gallery & Art Center Family Art Day: Kids and families of all ages can explore and create art from noon to 2 p.m. the second Saturday of each month (May 8) at Rogue Gallery & Art Center, 40 S. Bartlett St., Medford. Make your very own art projects to take home and explore gallery spaces with an art scavenger hunt. All materials will be provided. Admission is free; registration is required. Children must be accompanied by an

adult. After registration, specific times will be set to limit number of participants to meet social distancing protocols. Call 541772-8118 or see roguegallery.org. Phil King: The singer, songwriter and guitarist will play acoustic Americana-style originals along with a mix of retro cover songs across a wide variety of genres at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 10, at Augustino Estate at The Big Red Barn, 16995 N. Applegate Road, Grants Pass. See augustinoestate.com or call 541-846-1881. Nick Garrett Powell: Lead singer of the acoustic duo The Fret Drifters, guitarist and singer Nick Garrett Powell will perform at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 10, at Bayer Family Estate Winery, 11663 Agate Road, Eagle Point. See bayerfamilyestate.com or call 541-826-8953. Joshua Paul: Guitarist and singer Joshua Paul will perform a blend of Americana, rock, country and blues at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 10, at Aurora Vines Winery, 2287 Pioneer Road, Talent. See auroravines.com or call 541-897-0592. Lilli Worona: Guitarist and singer Lilli Worona will perform country and folk tunes at 4 p.m. Saturday, July 10, at Rellik Winery and Alpaca Farm, 970 Old Stage Road, Central Point. See rellikwinery.com or call 541-499-0449. Long Walk Vineyard Rogue Valley Farm to School Benefit: Long Walk Vineyard will team up with Rogue Valley Farm to School for a monthly benefit featuring estate wine from Long Walk, assorted tapas prepared by Deanna Waters-Senf featuring locally sourced seasonal ingredients, and a presentation of RVF2S programs, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. the second Saturday of each month, at 1800 N. Valley View Road, Ashland. Tickets are $25. All proceeds to benefit RVF2S. For further information, see rvfarm2school.org or call 541-778-7356. Jeff Kloetzel: Singer, songwriter and guitar player Jeff Kloetzel will play an acoustic mix of pop, folk and soul, along with original songs at 5 p.m. Saturday, July 10, at Stone River Winery and Vineyard, 2178 Pioneer Road, Talent. Call 541-631-9583. Rogue Suspects: Rock, funk and blues band The Rogue Suspects — singer Shae Celine, guitar player Dirk Price, bassist Greg Frederick, drummer David Bolen and keyboard player Don Harriss — will perform at 6 p.m. Saturday, July 10, at Dunbar Farms

Rocky Knoll Winery, 2881 Hillcrest Road, Medford. Admission is free. See dunbarfarms.com or call 541-414-3363. Justinsayne N8V and Subtractus: The bands will perform at 8 p.m. Saturday, July 10, at Johnny B’s, 120 E. 6th St., Medford. See jbsmedford.com or call 458-226-2722.

Sunday, July 11 Rogue Suspects: Rock, funk and blues band The Rogue Suspects — singer Shae Celine, guitar player Dirk Price, bassist Greg Frederick, drummer David Bolen and keyboard player Don Harriss — will perform at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 11, at Hummingbird Estate Winery, 1677 Old Stage Road, Central Point. Admission is $7. See hummingbirdestate.com or call 541-930-2650. Bim Jeam and the Sadness: Hear country, folk, and blues acoustic music you can groove to when Bim Jeam and the Sadness performs at 3 p.m. Sunday, July 11, at Walkabout Brewing Co., 921 Mason Way, Medford. See walkaboutbrewing.com or call 541-734-4677. Blowin’ Smoke: Rockin’ new country band Blowin’ Smoke — singer Beth Henderson, guitarists Curtis Cunningham and Michael Sidon, Alex Detweiler on drums and Paul Frederick on bass — will perform at 4 p.m. Sunday, July 11, at RoxyAnn Winery, 3285 Hillcrest Road, Medford. See roxyann.com or call 541-776-2315. Steve Hopkins & Band of Brothers: Guitarist Steve Hopkins and his jazz group Band of Brothers will perform at 4 p.m. Sunday, July 11, at Rellik Winery and Alpaca Farm, 970 Old Stage Road, Central Point. See rellikwinery.com or call 541-499-0449.

Tuesday, July 13 Storytime for Adults: Learn simple things you can do to support your child’s brain development, language acquisition and early literacy skills during this bilingual interactive session at 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 13, at the Ruch library, 7919 Highway 238. Participants will receive a takehome bag with some simple Storytime tools to get started at home. Limited childcare will be available. Pre-registration required. For further details or to register, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-899-7438.

Wednesday, July 14 Olympic Obstacle Course: In honor of the 2021 Olympic Games, kids and teens ages 12 to18 can compete in a mini-version of the Olympic Games through an obstacle course accessible to a variety of different ability levels, from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 14, at the Prospect library, 150 Mill Creek Drive. Medals will be awarded to the top competitors. For further details or to register, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-560-3668. Learn to Lead: Children ages 10 and older can meet with workers from Sanctuary One, an animal-care farm located in the Applegate Valley, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 14, at the Medford library, 205 S. Central Ave. Learn what a day in the life of a Sanctuary One volunteer is like, and what skills their volunteers learn that can translate into real-world application. You’ll also get the chance to meet the Sanctuary One Goat Ambassadors — Ned, Lucky, and Dusty. For further details or to register, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-774-8679. Danielle Kelly Jazz Duo: Singer Danielle Kelly and guitarist Paul Turnipseed will perform a mix of jazz styles at 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 14, at DANCIN Vineyards, 4477 S. Stage Road, Medford. Admission is free. Call 541-2451133 or see dancin.com. Pacifica: Vocalist Alissa Weaver, guitarist and vocalist Jack Fischer, and drummer Michael Whipple will perform at 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 14, at RoxyAnn Winery, 3285 Hillcrest Road, Medford. See roxyann.com or call 541-776-2315.

Thursday, July 15 The Sword in the Tome: Pre-teens and teens, ages 12 to 18 years, can learn about swords and their symbolism in literature, at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 15, at the Ruch library, 7919 Highway 238. From Arthur’s mythical blade Excalibur to Luke’s inherited lightsaber, swords are as much symbols in literature as they are tools for the characters. A brief fight choreography lesson will follow the discussion. For further details or to register, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-899-7438. SEE LIVE, A17

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Dave Jackson: Guitarist and singer Dave Jackson will play at 8 p.m. Thursday, July 15, at Johnny B’s, 120 E. 6th St., Medford. See jbsmedford.com or call 458-226-2722.

Friday, July 16 Hunger Games Water Fight: Kids and teens ages 12 to 18 can play a safe, water-based round of Suzanne Collins’ “Hunger Games” at 3 p.m. Friday, July 16, at the Shady Cove School, 37 Schoolhouse Lane, Shady Cove. Discuss the leadership traits shown in the books, then quickly build a lean-to out of cardboard and tape. When time is up, defend yourself and your shelter with water soaker balls. For further details or to register, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-878-2270. Movies in the Park: Find family-friendly movie fun under the stars at Bear Creek Park, located at the corner of Siskiyou Boulevard and Highland Drive, Medford. Movies begin at dusk every Friday evening through the end of August. On July 16, “Trolls World Tour” will be shown. Call 541-447-2400 or see playmedford.com. David Cahalan: Singer, songwriter and guitarist David Cahalan will perform at 5 p.m. Friday, July 16, at DANCIN Vineyards, 4477 S. Stage Road, Medford. Admission is free. Call 541-245-1133 or see dancin.com. Saucy: The five-piece band will play an eclectic mix of country, folk, rock and more at 5 p.m. Friday, July 16, at Trium Wines Tasting Room, 203 E. Main Street, Talent. See triumwines. com or call 541-625-9100. The Antelopers: Ashland-based folk cover band will play a wide variety of music from the 1930s to current hits at 5:30 p.m. Friday, July 16, at Dunbar Farms Rocky Knoll Winery, 2881 Hillcrest Road, Medford. Admission is free. See dunbarfarms.com or call 541-414-3363. Nick Garrett Powell: Lead singer of the acoustic duo The Fret Drifters, guitarist and singer Nick Garrett Powell will perform at 5:30 p.m. Friday, July 16, at Hummingbird Estate Winery, 1677 Old Stage Road, Central Point. See hummingbirdestate. com or call 541-930-2650. The Roadsters: Guitarists James

Fletcher and Joe Carnes, bassist Billy Boy Santos, percussionists Annette Marie Fortino and Jerry Horton, and keyboardist Elena Shpatenko-Fletcher will play a mix of country, oldies, classic rock and pop at 6 p.m. Friday, July 16, at RoxyAnn Winery, 3285 Hillcrest Road, Medford. See roxyann.com or call 541-776-2315. L.E.F.T.: Rock ‘n’ roll band L.E.F.T. — singer and guitarist Bret Levick, Bob Evoniuk on Dobro, bassist Greg Frederick, drummer Matt Terreri and Don Harriss on keys — perform Levick’s original rock, along with covers of songs by the Rolling Stones, David Bowie and others, at 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 16, at Grizzly Peak Winery, 1600 E. Nevada St., Ashland. Admission is $15. Must be 21 or older to attend. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. See grizzlypeakwinery.com or call 541-482-5700. The Reverberays: Chico Cornell, Hefe Rodriguez, Guapo Chuzman, Fia Stone will perform a mix of classic instrumental surf rock and surf-inspired standards that feature vocals, as well as obscure covers and originals, at 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 16, at Grape Street Bar & Grill, 31 S. Grape St., Medford. See grapestreetbarandgrill.com or call 541-500-8881. Owls & Aliens, Mougli and the Blues: The bands will perform at 8 p.m. Friday, July 16, at Johnny B’s, 120 E. 6th St., Medford. See jbsmedford.com or call 458-226-2722

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Leadership Begins at Southern Oregon University. “SOU encourages leadership that starts with being inclusive. Diverse people and ways of thinking create and nurture innovative leadership.” Precious Yamaguchi Associate Professor, Communication

Saturday, July 17 Auto Europa Ashland Car Club: People interested in European classic and exotic cars can meet from 8 to 10 a.m. the third Saturday of every month at Water Street Café, 10 Water St., Ashland. The club often goes on cruises to various locations throughout the valley. For further details, see AutoEuropaAshland.com. Bugs-R-Us Safari Animals: BugsR-Us will offer a free hands-on presentation for kids, “Safari Animals and Quicksand Dig,” at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 17, at the Rogue River library, 412 E. Main St. Learn about well-known animals from Africa and Asia; touch sample furs, pelts and feathers; then play a game to save an animal stuck in quicksand — whomever you save, you get to keep. For further details or to register, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-582-1714.

sou.edu • 855-470-3377

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DINING

LOVEJOY’S TEA ROOM IN ASHLAND

TAKE TIME TO RELISH THE RITUAL By Sarah Lemon for ACC

new Ashland eatery pours on the charm and kitsch with its traditional afternoon tea. Mismatched china, shabby chic furniture, dozens of doilies, yards of chintz and all the accoutrements for a “grand afternoon tea service” fill Lovejoy’s Tea Room to the brim. Sister to establishments in San Francisco and Portland, Lovejoy’s opened last month in the former location of Liquid Assets Wine Bar and expanded options for high tea beloved in Britain and the Commonwealth. My British friend and his wife were ideal companions for a Lovejoy’s foray, a fitting venue for toasting his recent retirement. We reserved a table for the “queen’s tea” on a weekend before Southern Oregon’s temperatures started soaring. Sipping our steaming “cuppas” on a deeply cushioned couch, we had no qualms about whiling away the afternoon. Guests should allow plenty of time — at least an hour and a half — to relish the ritual of taking tea. Food arrives in several courses while teas themselves need to steep for several minutes before drinking. And finishing a couple of pots of tea — or three — takes some fortitude. Each afforded an entire pot of tea, guests can elect to share with the entire table. Lady Gray was a collective favorite and our first choice from nearly 50 on Lovejoy’s list, organized by black teas, black flavored teas, decaffeinated teas, green and white teas, pu-erh teas and herbal tisanes. For tea sandwiches, we likewise favored a sharable assortment: smoked salmon, deviled egg, “coronation” chicken, ham with sliced apple, artichoke hummus with arugula and chicken with apples, walnuts and cranberries. The only ones we omitted were classic cucumber, roast beef and cream cheese with strawberry preserves. These, of course, are quintessential tea sandwiches, prepared on white bread with the crusts cut off. Gluten-free tea service is available for a $5 surcharge to the per-person price of $35 for the queen’s tea. And Lovejoy’s will accommodate allergies and other dietary needs with advance notice. Fresh, seasonal fruit and organic

PHOTOS BY SARAH LEMON

Petits fours and chocolate truffles conclude the high tea service at Lovejoy’s Tea Room in Ashland.

mixed greens with Dijon-balsamic vinaigrette filled in the three-tiered tower delivered to our table. While the greens were a bit limp, the fruit was stunning — bright, juicy and of commendable variety. The more common melon, orange and grapes were a backdrop for strawberries, blueberries and kiwi. The main attraction, though, was the sandwiches, bordering the bed of salad and interspersed with cucumber slices. Each filling was fresh, flavorful and finely textured, as genteel as the china teacups and saucers we filled with Lovejoy’s blend of Earl Gray and apricot teas. To immerse ourselves more deeply in tea, we selected the Scottish caramel pu-erh as companion for the freshly baked scone and toasted crumpet. Clotted cream, lemon curd and raspberry preserves provided the requisite sweetness and richness. The fragrant, buttery brew from fermented tea leaves paired perfectly with the baked goods, conjuring nostalgia, even among customers who have never tried a traditional crumpet. A side of two scones costs $12, and two crumpets are $9 for walk-in guests, who can order from the “Taste of Lovejoy’s” menu, which also offers tea sandwiches cut into quarters for $4.50 apiece and petits fours or truffles for $2.95. A “bottomless” pot of tea costs $10 (add $2 to share it), and attentive servers refresh the water whenever it runs low.

A toasted crumpet comes with lemon curd at Lovejoy’s Tea Room in Ashland.

Classic tea sandwiches come in nine varieties at Lovejoy’s Tea Room in Ashland.

A three-tired tower of treats is a centerpiece of the “queen’s tea” at Lovejoy’s Tea Room in Ashland.

Our hostess conscientiously suggested clean teacups for our third tea, a slightly tangy herbal infusion of “forest berries” and rose hips that I hoped would cut through the sweets. My friends were game, although they’d have to forgo milk, which would curdle in this brew. From a platter of petits fours and truffles, we singled out lemon, strawberry and Victorian vanilla. I was the only one who supplemented my bite-sized marzipan cake with a

bittersweet chocolate truffle sprinkled with sea salt. While the herbal infusion indeed tempered the petits fours’ ultra sweet icing, the generously sized truffle would have been a better match on my palate with peppermint, chocolate raspberry or the obvious “chocolate truffle” tea. See lovejoystearoom-ashland.com for details about the tearoom at 96 N. Main St. No. 201. Reservations are available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday.

Ashland Community Connections | Revels

ART GALLERIES Editor’s note: Because of changing COVID-19 restrictions in place in Oregon, please call businesses or check their websites to confirm all listed events. American Trails: The gallery, located in the Columbia Hotel, 250 E. Main St., Ashland, features art and crafts of the indigenous peoples in North and South America. The gallery will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Sunday. Masks are required, and hand sanitation will be offered at the door. See americantrails.com or call 541-482-2553. Art & Soul Gallery: The watermedia paintings exhibit “Colors of the Pacific Northwest” by Pam Haunschild display through Aug. 1. From 5 to 8 p.m .Friday, July 2, Haunschild will demonstrate and answer questions about her work. Appointments are available but not necessary at 30-minute intervals. Limit of 20 visitors in the gallery at a time. The gallery, which features art in a variety of mediums by regional artists and is located at 247 E. Main St., Ashland, will be open from noon to 5 p.m. Thursdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and by appointment. Masks are required by visitors. See artandsoulgallery.com or call 541-488-9006. Ashland Art Works: See the work of local artists in a variety of mediums, including ceramics, woodwork, fiber arts and garden art. The art collective, at 291 Oak St., Ashland, will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesdays and Sundays. The gallery’s July featured artists are Marydee Bombick and Shari Southard. See brightly colored ceramic flowers by Bombick and landscape watercolor paintings by Southard. The galley will host artists who will give demonstrations and workshops from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the second Saturday of each month. At 10 a.m. Saturday, July 10, Bombick will provide an artist demonstration to show how she creates her ceramic flowers. Southard will follow providing a glimpse into her plein air painting processes. Masks are required to visit the gallery. For further details, see ashlandartworks.org or call 541-488-4735. Fiber Arts Collective: See the work of approximately 30 fiber

artisans at 37 N. Third St., Ashland. Exhibits include sewing, dyeing, knitting, crocheting, embroidering and felting to binding, collaging, painting, printing, stenciling, beading and creating assemblage pieces. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays. Call 541-708-6966 or see fiberartscollective.com. Gallerie Karon: Gallerie Karon is moving from its current place at 500 A St., Suite #1, to 300 E. Main St., Ashland. The gallery features vintage textiles and jewelry, antiques, art and furnishings. See discovergalleriekaron.com or call 541-482-9008. Hanson Howard Gallery: The gallery, located at 89 Oak St., Ashland, features works in an array of mediums including painting, sculpture, ceramics and fine art prints. Mixed-media sculptures by John and Robin Gumaelius, and paintings by Robert Koch will be featured through June 26. Ceramic sculptures by Wataru Sugiyama will be shown alongside landscape paintings by Jon Jay Cruson July 1 through Aug. 14. The gallery will be open noon to 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and by appointment. Masks are required to visit the gallery, and hand sanitation will be available. For further information, see hansonhowardgallery.com or call 541-488-2562. Houston’s Custom Framing and Fine Art: The gallery, located at 280 E. Hersey St. #11, Ashland, will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and by appointment. See the colorful exhibit of intaglio prints by Yuji Hiratsuka, and paintings by of Stephen McMillan and Thomas M. Houston. Masks are required, and hand sanitation will be offered at the door. See houstonscustomframing.com or call 541-482-1983. La Baguette Music Café: See oil painting by local artist and musician Jeffrey Baxter through Saturday, July 31, at La Baguette Music Café, 340 A St., and Gils, 175 N. Pioneer St., in Ashland. See labaguettemusiccafe.com or call 541-482-0855. Studio 151: The art studio, located at 151 N. Pioneer St., Ashland, features mixed-media sculptural artwork by Elizabeth York. See studio151ashland.com.

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Ashland Community Connections | Revels

LOCAL THEATER, LIVESTREAM PLAYS Editor’s note: Because of changing COVID-19 restrictions in place in Oregon, please call businesses or check their websites to confirm all listed events. Ashland Contemporary Theatre: See ashlandcontemporarytheatre. org or call 541-646-2971. ACT is seeking submissions of short plays by Southern Oregon playwrights. The theatre company plans to present a “Moonlighting” reading in September at Grizzly Peak Winery in Ashland. Play submissions may be as short as a 10-minute full program up to a 40 minute one-act. Monologues also are welcome. There are no topic-related limits for the content of the plays. For more information or to submit a play, email ashcontempotheatre@gmail. com, or send a hard-copy to Ashland Contemporary Theatre, P.O. Box 3284, Ashland Oregon, 97520. The submission deadline is Wednesday, July 7. Camelot Theatre: 101 Talent Ave., Talent. Tickets and information available at camelottheatre. org or 541-535-5250. Group and discounted season packages are available. Box Office hours are noon to 5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays. 2021 season: Camelot will present two musical spotlights this summer and fall, and “Elf, The Musical” for the holidays as it re-emerges from the pandemic to offer live performances for its 39th season.“Spotlight on Aretha Franklin” featuring the Rogue Suspects is scheduled to run Aug. 12 through Sept. 5, and “Spotlight on Bette Midler: The Divine Miss M,” is slated for Sept. 30 through Oct. 24. Both spotlights are billed as Camelot exclusives. “Elf, The Musical,” based on the hit 2003 movie “Elf” starring Will Ferrell, will be presented Nov. 24 through Dec. 31. 2021 Youth Conservatory: Camelot partners again this year with the Oregon Conservatory of Performing Arts (OCPA) to offer an in-person, conservatory training program. For students ages 7 to 14, the “Magic of Theatre” program runs Monday through Friday, July 5-23, at Hedrick Middle School in Medford, concluding with two performances of “Charlotte’s Web” July 23. Students ages 13 to 19 are currently in a six-week in-person conservatory at Camelot Theatre in Talent.

PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER BRISCOE

Rigo Jimenez as Ritchie Valens, left, Dan Middleditch as Buddy Holly and Alex Boyles as The Big Bopper in Oregon Cabaret Theatre’s production of “Buddy — The Buddy Holly Story.” See listing,this page This program concludes with five performances of the Broadway musical “All Shook Up.” Registration and information is available on OregonConservatory.org. ‘All Shook Up’: The Oregon Conservatory of Performing Arts and Camelot Conservatory students will present a dynamic tribute to “The King,” Elvis Presley, in the Broadway hit “All Shook Up.” Follow one-of-a-kind Elvis moves to tunes such as “Hound Dog,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Blue Suede Shoes,” “All Shook Up” and more. Performances are scheduled for Friday through Sunday, July 30-Aug. 1. Tickets are $20-25, and go on sale Thursday, July 1. Oregon Cabaret Theatre: 241 Hargadine St, on the corner of First and Hargadine streets, Ashland. Tickets and information are available at oregoncabaret. com or by calling 541-488-2902. Reservations are required for pre-show dinner and brunch. Appetizers, beverages and desserts are available without reservations. Student rush tickets are $15 and can be purchased 30 minutes before curtain with valid ID, subject to availability. Group discounts available. ‘Buddy — The Buddy Holly Story’: Buddy Holly’s brief life is immortalized in this dynamic

and heart-rending stage show. Set between 1956 and 1959, “Buddy” traces Buddy’s early rise to fame with the Crickets to the night when the music died. Featuring hit Buddy Holly songs like “That’ll be the Day,” “Peggy Sue,” “Everyday,” Ritchie Valens’ “La Bamba,” and The Big Bopper’s “Chantilly Lace,” this musical celebrates the lives lost on that fateful night and the lasting impact they had on rock ’n’ roll. Performances are set for 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, Mondays and select Wednesdays, July 1-Sept. 4, and 1 p.m. Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, through Sept. 5. Were it a movie, “Buddy” would be Rated PG, with mild, coarse language and some adult themes. Tickets are $43, $39 or $29. COVID-19 safety measures include masks being worn at all times when not eating, temperature checks at the door, tables 6 feet apart and 12 feet from performers, and limited capacity. Upcoming performances include “Poirot: Murder on the Links,” Sept. 18-Nov.7; and “Christmas, Contigo,” Nov. 18-Dec. 31. Oregon Shakespeare Festival: 15 S. Pioneer St., Ashland. Showtimes, ticket prices and information available at osfashland.org or at 800-219-8161. Group discounts

available. OSF’s interactive and immersive digital content platform, O!, can be accessed for free at osfashland.org/digital. Some content will be accessed for a fee. Other content available or in development includes interviews, digital storytelling, online classes, podcasts, audio plays and more. August Wilson’s “How I Learned What I Learned,” directed by Tim Bond; Mona Mansour’s “unseen,” helmed by OSF Associate Artistic Director Evren Odcikin; and Dominique Morisseau’s “Confederates,” directed by OSF Artistic Director Nataki Garrett, previously anticipated for Fall 2021, will take place in future seasons. Live Performances: ‘Fannie’: Cheryl L. West’s “Fannie: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer,” is a musical play inspired by the life of the civil rights activist, and tells the story of the Mississippi-born civil and voting rights activist (1917-1977), painting a portrait of courage, humor, and grit. The play provides a first-person account of Hamer’s remarkable life, alternating between autobiography and song, just as Hamer herself incorporated art into her activism. The play stars two luminaries of the American stage — E. Faye Butler, who will portray Hamer July 1 through

Aug. 28, and Greta Oglesby who will take over the role Sept. 1-Oct. 9. An onstage band will provide backup music for the one-woman show. Performances are scheduled to run at 8 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, July 1-Oct. 9. Tickets are $35, and can be purchased at osfashland.org or by calling the OSF box office at 800-2198161. Masks are required. Wednesday Concerts: OSF will present outdoor concerts on the big Elizabethan stage at 8 p.m. Wednesdays, July 21-Oct. 6. Kicking off the concert season will be the Bay Area’s Urban Jazz Dance Company, which will perform two nights, July 21-22. Other bookings so far include Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, Phoenix and Four Directions, Hollis Peach, Brother Angus, Ballet Folklorico Ritmo Alegre, Chic Street Man, The Singer and The Songwriter, Dancing Spirit Drum, and Flamenco Pacifico. Tickets are $15, and can be purchased at osfashland.org or by calling the OSF box office at 1-800-2198161. Masks are required. ‘It’s Christmas, Carol!’: Written by Mark Bedard, Brent Hinkley, and John Tufts, the story follows three ghosts who take the miserly Carol Scroogenhouse through time and space to reckon with how she’s abandoned love and artistry for capitalism. Performance dates and times will be announced later. Rogue Theater Company: See roguetheatercompany.com or call 541-205-9190 for showtimes, tickets and further information. ‘Tiny Beautiful Things’: Based on the acclaimed book by Cheryl Strayed (author of the best-selling “Wild”) and adapted for the stage by Nia Vardalos (“My Big Fat Greek Wedding”), “Tiny Beautiful Things” follows advice columnist “Sugar” as she weaves together her personal experiences while offering insights full of laughter, depth and humanity. This touching and uplifting exploration of resilience is a reminder that we’re not so alone after all. Veteran OSF actor Michael J. Hume directs. Performances are scheduled for 1 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, July 15-24, at Grizzly Peak Winery, 1600 E. Nevada St., Ashland. Regular tickets are $25. Tickets are available online through the theater company’s website or by phone.

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LOCAL LIVESTREAMS, VIRTUAL EVENTS Ashland seniors activities

what it’s like to collaborate, and the misconceptions some people have about romance novels, at 6 p.m. Thursday, July 15, via Zoom. Meet the authors and bring your questions. To register, see jcls. libcal.com or for more info call 541-535-7090. Meeting details will be emailed to you when you register.

A variety of virtual activities and services are available to adults 50 and older Mondays through Fridays through the Ashland Senior Center, 1699 Homes Ave. See ashlandseniorservices. org or call 541-488-5342 for full listings.

Anima Mundi Productions: ‘Heart of Humanity’ concert series Anima Mundi Productions, an Ashland-based performing arts nonprofit dedicated to producing and presenting new musical works that address urgent societal challenges, will present a free series of four concert-length videos, launching one per month through August. The series, called “A Time For Life: A Spring Video Festival,” includes renowned performers such as Grammy-winning soprano Estelí Gomez, Portland-based professional choir Cappella Romana and the elite LA-based HEX Vocal Ensemble, performing both new and classical works on environmental themes, as well as the world premiere of a new oratorio about Oregonians’ experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Each video will be released with a special ticketed launch event, and will remain online through the end of August. For further information and tickets, see humanitytickets.com.

Historic Jacksonville virtual tour Three text-based virtual tours of Jacksonville’s historic past, “Walk Through Jacksonville History,” “Beekman Bank Nuggets,” and “Mrs. Beekman Invites You to Call,” can be viewed at historicjacksonville.org. New material is added weekly. For further information, call 541245-3650 or email at info@ historicjacksonville.org.

Queer Coffee House The social group for LGBTQ+ communities and their allies meets from 10 a.m. to noon the first Saturday (July 3) of each month via Zoom. Ashland Librarian Elanna Erhardt will facilitate group introductions. Bring a list of your recent favorite books, movies, and/or podcasts, and share what projects or crafts you’re working on. To register, see jcls.libcal.com. For further

Gold Hill Book Club

COURTESY PHOTO

Native plants garden tour Take a virtual tour through 11 gardens to explore trees, shrubs, perennials and wildflowers that are native to our area at jacksoncountymga.org/native-plants-garden-tour. Included are an eco-restoration garden, a permaculture mini-farm, a small urban garden and more. Admission is free; donations to the Jackson County Master Gardeners Association will be accepted. For more information, call 541-227-1358. information, email at EErhardt@ jcls.org.

Books at Noon This readers’ group discusses various books and offer suggestions for new reads at noon the first Tuesday (July 6) of each month, via Zoom. To register, see jcls.libcal.com or for more info call 541-535-7090.

Eagle Point Friends Book Club Discuss suggested books with this reader’s group at 2 p.m. the first Tuesday of every month, via Zoom. The book to be discussed on Tuesday, July 6, will be “Becoming” by Michelle Obama. To register and reserve a copy of the book of the month, see jcls. libcal.com or call 541-826-3313. Meeting details will be emailed to you when you register.

Windows in Time — local history lecture As part of the “Windows in Time” lecture series, Kevin Keating, historian and member of the board of directors at the Southern Oregon Historical Society, will present “Over Here: Jackson County and World War

I” at noon Wednesday, July 7, via Zoom. Using information from news sources and the National Archives, Keating will touch upon war supporters and anti-war individuals, as well as problems such as prostitution and intimidation that occurred in the Rogue Valley while the war was “over there.” Admission is free; registration is required. To register, see jcls. libcal.com or for more info call 541-774-8679. Meeting details will be emailed to you when you register. The program will be recorded for later viewing on JCLS’ YouTube channel.

Green burial presentation Mary Ann Perry, sexton at Oregon’s first and only dedicated natural burial ground, The Forest Conservation Burial Ground at Willow-Witt Ranch, will present “Green Burial: The Greenest Way to Go,” from noon to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 14, via Zoom. Learn about Oregon’s first and only dedicated natural burial ground, located here in the Rogue Valley. The Forest Conservation Burial Ground at Willow-Witt Ranch exclusively offers green burial and burial or scattering of cremated remains. There is also

a pet cemetery on the ranch. To register, see jcls.libcal.com or for more info call 541-535-7090. Meeting details will be emailed to you when you register.

Community conversation Oregon Humanities will host an online conversation on land, possession and justice with David Treuer, author of “The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee — Native America from 1890 to the Present,” at 5 p.m. Thursday, July 15, via livestream. In a recent article in The Atlantic, Treuer argued that control of National Parks in the U.S.— 85 million acres in all — should be turned over to Native tribes. The event will be streamed live on YouTube and at oregonhumanities.org. At 6 p.m. there will be a breakout conversation on Zoom for viewers to discuss their responses to the conversation. Viewers can register for the breakout conversation at oregonhumanities.org.

Author talk Maisey Yates and Megan Crane, two prominent local authors, will ask each other questions and discuss their work, reflecting on writing during the pandemic,

The Gold Hill Library Book Club for adults 18 and older will meet at 3 p.m. the third Friday of each month, via Zoom. On Friday, July 16, the book to be discussed will be “In Extremis: The Life and Death of the War Correspondent Marie Colvin” by Lindsey Hilsum and the movie version, “A Private War,” directed by Matthew Heineman. Books are available for pickup one month before the meeting date. To register, see jcls.libcal.com or for more info call 541-855-1994. Meeting details will be emailed to you when you register.

Tween Book Club This readers club for tweens will meet at 3 p.m. the third Saturday of each month, via Zoom. On Saturday, July 17, the book to be discussed will be “Amal Unbound” by Aisha Saeed. To register, see jcls.libcal.com or for more info call 541-774-8679. Meeting details will be emailed to you when you register.

The Community Crochet Learn how to crochet a 6-by-6 inch “Granny Square” at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 17, via Zoom. Submit your competed square to the Ashland library by Aug. 7 to have it added to a blanket that will be displayed in the library. To register, see jcls.libcal.com or for more info call 541-774-6980. Meeting details will be emailed to you when you register.

Tea Time Tuesday Pre-teens and teens, ages 12 to 18, can join in an online book discussion with tea and dessert provided at 1 p.m. the third Tuesday of each month through August. The book to be discussed on Tuesday, July 20, will be “I Am Malala,”by Malala Yousafzai. Pre-register for the discussion, then pick up the book (yours to keep), tea, and dessert two weeks before each SEE VIRTUAL, A22

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Ashland Community Connections | Revels

VIRTUAL From Page A21

online event. To register, see jcls. libcal.com or for more info call 541-774-8679. Meeting details will be emailed to you when you register.

Business Book Discussion Group This monthly book discussion group of business owners, nonprofit leaders and entrepreneurs will meet at 6 p.m. the third Tuesday of every month, via Zoom to discuss works by pioneering authors on resilience. The author to be discussed on Tuesday, July 20, will be Carol Dweck. To register, see jcls. libcal.com or for more info call 541-774-8679. Meeting details will be emailed to you when you register.

Brain Books Discussion Group The adult reading group will meet from 3 to 5 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month via Zoom. On Tuesday, July 27, the

book to be discussed will be “Humankind: A Hopeful History” by Rutger Bregman. To register, see jcls.libcal.com or for more info call 541-774-8679. Meeting details will be emailed to you when you register.

Teen’s Driver’s Ed Trivia Night Prepare to take the driver’s license or learner’s permit exam with a game of online trivia with questions straight from the DMV’s Oregon Driver Manual, at 4 p.m. Wednesday, July 28. Log into the Zoom meeting to see the questions and respond on the Kahoot app or website. You don’t need an account to play, just the app and the game PIN, which we will be provided during the Zoom meeting. If you need a manual, stop by any JCLS branch to pick one up. To register, see jcls. libcal.com or for more info call 541-774-8679.

Civics presentation: Get involved Hear from a panel of volunteers from organizations throughout the Rogue Valley

who will discuss what they do, current COVID-19 restrictions, and how you can get involved, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 29, via Zoom. To register, see jcls.libcal.com or for more info call 541-774-8679. Meeting details will be emailed to you when you register.

Medford Library Book Chat Discuss selected books with others in this reading group at 5:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of every month, via Zoom. The book to be discussed on Tuesday, Aug. 10, will be “Counting by 7’s” by Holly Goldberg Sloan. To register and reserve a copy of the book of the month, see jcls.libcal.com or call 541-535-7090. Meeting details will be emailed to you when you register.

Library2Go Presentation Learn about available digital resources, and how to check out library books and transfer them to your phone, tablet or e-reader at 2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, via Zoom. The presentation will include information about how to search for, check

A&E ETCETERA Television Fireworks and stars will light up two July Fourth specials Sunday. PBS’ 41st “A Capitol Fourth” (check local stations for time), with host Vanessa Williams, includes pre-recorded performances by Jimmy Buffett, Gladys Knight, Alan Jackson, Cynthia Erivo, Renee Fleming and the Joint Armed Forces Concert. Live pyrotechnics over Washington will cap the program. NBC’s 45th “Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular” (check local listings) will include music by Black Pumas, Coldplay, OneRepublic and Reba McEntire, followed by fireworks from barges on New York’s East River.

Streaming Don Cheadle leads an expansive ensemble of Benicio del Toro, Kieran Culkin, David Harbour, Jon Hamm, Amy Seimetz, Brendan Fraser, Noah Jupe, Julia Fox, Ray Liotta, Bill Duke and Matt Damon in Steven Soderbergh’s 1950s

Detroit crime drama “No Sudden Move.” The film, which debuts Thursday on HBO Max, is a series of double-crosses that tease out some of the foundational injustices of Detroit history. It’s one of the most ambitious movies to be shot and released during the pandemic, and one that returns Soderbergh and Cheadle to Detroit, 23 years after another caper that landed in the Motor City, “Out of Sight.” Wolfgang Puck, his restaurants and brand are omnipresent, but that success required determination and exacted a toll, according to the Disney+ documentary “Wolfgang” (now streaming). The Austrian-born Puck says in the film that he was belittled by a stepfather who told him he’d never be a success or a “real man” unless he stayed out of the kitchen — the only place he felt comfortable. Unbowed, he went on to dazzle celebrities and fellow chefs with his inventive fare. While Puck says he’s at a time in life to take things easy — he’ll be 72 on July 8 — he intends the opposite.

Gold Hill Book Club The Gold Hill Library Book Club for adults 18 and older will meet at 3 p.m. the third Friday of each month, via Zoom. On Friday, Aug. 20, the book to be discussed will be “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig. Books are available for pickup one month before the meeting date. To register, see jcls.libcal.com or for more info call 541-855-1994. Meeting details will be emailed to you when you register.

Tween Book Club This readers club for tweens will meet at 3 p.m. the third Saturday of each month, via Zoom. On Saturday, Aug. 21, the book to be discussed will be “Song for a Whale” by Lynne Kelly. To register, see jcls.libcal.com or for more info call 541-774-8679. Meeting details will be emailed to you when you register.

Rogue Valley Genealogical Society The Rogue Valley Genealogical Society will host author and professional genealogist Tricia Oberndorf, who will present “North American Migration — In, Out, and Across” from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 25, via Zoom. Learn about our ancestor’s motivations, struggles and successes. Oberndorf will set the stage for various migration periods with the who, what, when, where and why of migration. She will discuss the development of a new nation beginning with the Colonial period, then following the progress of settlements up through the late 1800s, examining research strategies and resources to further help trace our ancestors. Admission is $55. Registration closes at noon, Friday, Sept. 24. Once you’ve completed your registration, you will receive an email with your Zoom link the day before the presentation. To register or for further information, see rvgslibrary.org, email reception@rvgslibrary.org or call 541-512-2340.

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out and download titles from the Library2Go website. To register, see jcls.libcal.com or for more info call 541-774-8679. Meeting details will be emailed to you when you register.

Ashland Community Connections | Revels

Thursday, July 1, 2021 |

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THE FOURTH WALL

‘NETWORK’ @ 45

MEDDLING WITH PRIMAL FORCES ROBERT GALVIN

he recent death of character actor supreme Ned Beatty prompted me to revisit the screenplay of the film that featured the role for which he received his lone Academy Award nomination. “Network,” which was released 45 years ago this coming November, is up there with, among others, “Casablanca,” “All About Eve,” “The Godfather,””Some Like It Hot” and “Chinatown” in that hallowed pantheon of movie scripts — the sort of screenplay that not only is quoted, well, 45 years later ... but also serves as a touchstone for those who dare tread the same territory. The work of Paddy Chayefsky — who received one of his three Oscars for the script — “Network” turns around the camera for an unflinching portrait of the dangers of society falling victim to feeding the beast of all-consuming media. Over the years, it has become Peter Finch’s portrayal of Howard Beale — a doomed network news anchor who, while losing his mind, scores big ratings — that we think of first. But while we’re all thinking to ourselves that we’re mad as hell and ... well, you know the rest ... it Beatty’s role as Communications Corporation of America overlord Arthur Jensen who twists what had been a darkly comic satire inside-out to hold up the mirror to what Beale (and, by proxy, the audience) have become accomplices. Beatty, whose major credits to that point were “Deliverance” and “Nashville,” was only on screen for 5 minutes and 53 seconds — the bulk of which was in a monologue

Ned Beatty, left, the prolific character actor who died Sunday at the age of 83, is shown delivering one of the greatest monologues in movie history in the 1976 film classic “Network” — a scathing look by screenwriter Paddy Chayefsky, right, at the corrosive and corrupting nature of television.

preaching his gospel to a thunderstruck Beale. Beatty was a last-minute cast replacement in the role, who has one day to learn the monlogue and filmed it in a single day — which, considering the result, was a remarkable melding of performance and text. “Network” is my head’s favorite movie (my heart’s, as oft-stated, is 1983’s “Local Hero”), primarily for its approach to the material. In 1976, I couldn’t have been in a better target for this type of movie — a sophomore journalism major with a nascent cynicism emerging on the heels of Watergate and Vietnam who, in the past 12 months, had read “1984” and seen “Citizen Kane” ... each for the first time. By the time Howard Beale’s news report turns into a full hour dominated by his ranting about the state of the world (this was 45 years ago), it was nearly impossible not to believe you were witnessing a one-of-a-kind film. I’ve read Chayefsky’s screenplay three or four times now, and usually find something new in it. The underlying truths in “Network” never grow old — even as its acolytes do. Mail Tribune news editor Robert Galvin can be reached at rgalvin@rosebudmedia.com

‘I have chosen you to preach this evangel, Mr. Beale’ JENSEN You have meddled with the primal forces of nature, Mr. Beale, and I won’t have it, is that clear?! You think you have merely stopped a business deal — that is not the case! The Arabs have taken billions of dollars out of this country, and now they must put it back. It is ebb and flow, tidal gravity, it is ecological balance! You are an old man who thinks in terms of nations and peoples. There are no nations! There are no peoples! There are no Russians. There are no Arabs! There are no third worlds! There is no West! There is only one holistic system of systems, one vast and immane, interwoven, interacting, multi-variate, multi-national dominion of dollars — petro-dollars, electro-dollars, multi-dollars, Reichmarks, rubles, rin, pounds and shekels! It is the international system of currency that determines the totality of life on this planet! That is the natural order of things today! That is the atomic, subatomic and galactic structure of things today! And you have meddled with the primal forces of nature ... and you will atone! Am I getting through to you, Mr. Beale?

(pause) You get up on your little 21- inch screen, and howl about America and democracy.

There is no America. There is no democracy. There is only IBM and ITT and AT&T and Dupont, Dow, Union Carbide and Exxon. Those are the nations of the world today. What do you think the Russians talk about in their councils of state — Karl Marx? They pull out their linear programming charts, statistical decision theories and minimax solutions and compute the pricecost probabilities of their transactions and investments just like we do. We no longer live in a world of nations and ideologies, Mr. Beale. The world is a college of corporations, inexorably detemined by the immutable by-laws of business. The world is a business, Mr. Beale! It has been since man crawled out of the slime, and our children, Mr. Beale, will live to see that perfect world in which there is no war and famine, oppression and brutality — one vast and ecumenical holding company, for whom all men will work to serve a common profit, in which all men will hold a share of stock, all necessities provided, all anxieties tranquilized, all boredom amused. And I have chosen you to preach this evangel, Mr. Beale.

HOWARD (humble whisper) Why me?

JENSEN Because you’re on television, dummy.

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Ashland Community Connections | Revels

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Ashland Community Connections | Revels

Thursday, July 1, 2021 |

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‘ALMEDA DRACONIS’ BY LUCIANNA ESTES

‘The fire dragon that destroyed our homes’ By Allayana Darrow ACC

Days after the Almeda fire, Lucianna Estes sat in her Ashland Hills hotel room, staring at some of the last material remnants of her life, including a collection of coins she had worn as a belly dancer decades ago, piling on top of each other like shining dragon scales. Today, the coins, beads and chains adorn the back of “Almeda Draconis,” a dragon sculpture Estes created to make peace with the devastating fire event. “From the beginning, I kept thinking of the fire as this enormous dragon that came through,” Estes said. “So, I decided I was going to sculpt a dragon.” Estes came to Ashland in the 1970s and worked as a professional dancer and belly dance teacher. In 2016, with Ashland rental prices climbing out of reach on social security income, she spent time living with friends in Grants Pass before finding an apartment in Talent to share with a friend. Most of her valuable possessions — art supplies, handmade costumes, fabrics and silks collected over the years — were stored in a Grants Pass storage unit, ready for sorting once she settled into a new residence. As the Almeda fire raced toward Talent, Estes escaped with her dog, Leo, her computer, and little else. Both the storage unit and apartment

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Artist Lucianna Estes explains the vision behind her sculpture, titled “Almeda Draconis,” from her temporary home at Inn at the Commons in Medford.

burned, reducing to rubble a lifetime of treasured supplies and eight boxes of photographs, memorabilia and historical family records. “I was feeling so good, I’d finally gotten to this enormous project that I’d promised myself I would do for 30 years,” Estes said. “And then the fire came and ate that too.” “All of what was in the storage space represented my future, because that was always the potential for creation,” she continued. “The biggest thing I felt was the fire ate my past and it ate my future, and it left me homeless.” Later in the autumn, the storage facility owners allowed people to sort through their units for a few hours one day. At the apartment site, Estes’

friend salvaged a large jar of coins to which they both contributed — intended to be cashed in for a trip to the Oregon Coast. After sifting through the toxic remnants of her storage unit, under streams of twisted metal, Estes found her belly dance collection, including glass beads, coins and vintage Afghan silver jewelry. The resilient raw materials found at both sites inspired an exploration of themes of resurrection and transformation through the dragon sculpture, Estes said. As it dried, cold porcelain clay cracked along the dragon’s staunch figure and long tail — adding to the realism of the mythical creature’s scaly skin. “I’ll start to feel my way through it, and at some point the

project starts taking on a life of itself and starts talking to you,” Estes said. “It becomes this communication — this dance — between you and the creation.” While the project took shape, Estes heard the creature’s voice calling back, giving direction. Estes said she interpreted the messages as the transformation of grief and loss into productivity, using materials Almeda Draconis left behind in her wake. Apart from the wings, she is covered in recovered rubble. In various mythologies, fire dragons represent intelligence, rebirth, will, desire and greed, Estes said. During her creative process, she came to feel unexpected affection for the sculpture’s magnificence and fierceness, even where the figure has required repair. “She was so destructive for so many thousands of people,” Estes said. “She’s a primal, elemental force of nature, like the fires that are burning the forests,

the intense heat now that’s becoming the norm everywhere — I think about those things when I think about her, a major transformative process.” Estes imagines the dragon soaring across the Rogue Valley Sept. 8, enjoying the destruction of everything in her path, feeding on wood as it burned. When the dragon arrived at Estes’ storage unit, she collapsed the roof and walls and delighted in the discovery of a trove of antique coins and jewelry. “She laid down and rolled in that melted metal and that’s how she came to have it all over her,” Estes said, explaining her vision behind the sculpture. Estes said she hopes the sturdy sculpture offers catharsis for others, once Almeda Draconis is relocated to the lobby of Inn at the Commons in Medford, where rooms still serve as temporary homes for Estes and dozens of other fire survivors who lost their homes.

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Ashland Community Connections | Revels

OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING INSTITUTE

Discovery never ends for historian By Laura Simonds for ACC

Since last Fall, this Lifelong Learning column has either been written by or has featured instructors or students of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Southern Oregon University. The topics and viewpoints have varied widely, and hopefully been of interest to Ashland Tidings readers. Jeff LaLande, a historian and long-time Rogue Valley resident, recently chatted with me about his experiences, interest in, and passion for lifelong learning. Lifelong learning is the ongoing, voluntary, and self-motivated pursuit of knowledge for personal or professional reasons. A definition of “renaissance man” is a man who has acquired profound knowledge or proficiency in a wide range of fields. I can honestly say that Jeff is a renaissance man. As such, he certainly demonstrates lifelong learning in action. When asked what lifelong learning means to him and why it is important, Jeff replied that he considers himself a lifelong learner and in fact is still learning many things. For example, right now he is acquiring knowledge about birding, and is traveling to learn more about our natural world. He has been learning about birds since he was a young kid, but some things came along in adulthood that discouraged further learning. However, he is fortunate to have kept that interest and passion for learning. He also mentioned his fascination with some odd topics, such as some remote islands in the South Pacific and Caribbean that became U.S. territory in the 1859s because they contained valuable deposits of bird guano (mined for fertilizer); and, on a totally different topic, a particularly flamboyant

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Jeff LaLande recently traveled to volcanic features in eastern Oregon to learn more about our natural world.

Italian World War II general. After a short laugh, Jeff acknowledged how “weird” he is. Jeff’s formal experience with lifelong learning began when he was an adjunct professor at SOU, where his first SOU course was also offered as an Extension

non-credit course. He also taught with Elder Hostel which led him to OLLI. With all these adult-program experiences, he’s been pleased to teach to over-50-year-olds, noting that they are there simply for the pleasure of learning.

He said he enjoys these motivated people, and he enjoys not having to grade papers and exams! That allows him the “pleasures of teaching without the pains of pedagogy.” Jeff’s professional career started when he moved to the

Rogue Valley in the late 1960s after college graduation, yet couldn’t find a decent job. He lucked into one — and a 31-year career —with the U.S. Forest Service as an archaeologist and historian. During that time, he went back twice for graduate degrees —again demonstrating lifelong learning. He’s also been very involved as a volunteer, including serving on several boards. According to Jeff, you can’t live in the Rogue Valley without hearing about OLLI. He started receiving the course catalog and other marketing information. In 2016 he started teaching OLLI courses, surprisingly being an instructor before being a student. His OLLI courses were courses he had taught at SOU, finding it easy to repackage them for an older student. Fortunately, he was able to reuse his previously created PowerPoint presentations. Again, being a “renaissance man,” his course topics included architectural history of the region, Southern Oregon history, and an Oregon history sampler. What keeps Jeff involved with OLLI is his passion to be a teacher. Admittedly some of it is selfish because he enjoys it so much. In conclusion, he added, “We have this thing between our ears, and it’s a shame not to use it to the best of our ability.” It’s obvious that Jeff clearly is a “renaissance man.” It’s also obvious that lifelong learning is a vital component for older adults to thrive, stay connected, and appreciate aging. OLLI offers all of this and more. Check out inside.sou.edu/olli to “come for the classes, stay for the connections.” Laura Simonds, a former marketing and sales professional in the publishing industry, volunteers on the OLLI Communications and Community Outreach Committee.

A definition of “renaissance man” is a man who has acquired profound knowledge or proficiency in a wide range of fields. I can honestly say that Jeff is a renaissance man. As such, he certainly demonstrates lifelong learning in action.

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HISTORIES & MYSTERIES

‘THE POWER OF PUBLIC ART’

Finally complete, the presentation has become a masterful introduction to the value of public art. You will see dramatic, beautiful and controversial artworks. ... You will learn about the what and the why of public art. Most of all, you will hopefully leave with new insights and understanding — even new questions.

By Peter Finkle for the Tidings

Why public art? What is "The Power of Public Art"? The Ashland Public Arts Commission has some thoughts — and many beautiful images — to share with you on these topics. On June 15, a 23-minute presentation called “The Power of Public Art,” with narration by OSF actor Anthony Heald, premiered on Zoom. The presentation is available to be seen on YouTube. This presentation defines and provides an overview of public art and its role in contemporary communities. You will find the Zoom registration link on the Public Arts Commission home page at the city of Ashland website. Our town is no stranger to public art. You may recognize the Butler-Perozzi Fountain in Lithia Park, Pioneer Mike in The Plaza and the Mickelsen-Chapman Memorial Fountain in front of the Ashland library, all from the early 1900s. Our city public art collection has grown considerably since the Public Arts Commission was formed in 2003 by Ashland City Council. Yet many of us don't know the scope of

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the commission's work or its purpose. Beginning in late 2017, with a goal of answering these questions, Tom Fuhrmark, Sandy Friend and Allison Renwick led the creation of “The Power of Public Art.” Fuhrmark came to the Public Arts Commission with more than three decades of experience working as a graphic artist. While still a relatively new commissioner, he saw the need to make the work of the commission more understandable to the public. Finally complete, the

presentation has become a masterful introduction to the value of public art. You will see dramatic, beautiful and controversial artworks. Friend explained that, as they were making the presentation, "We discovered so much amazing, unique and imaginative public art in our online searches, and were always scrambling for a relevant connection to add powerful pieces into our video." You will learn about the what and the why of public art. Most of all, you will hopefully leave with new insights and

understanding — even new questions. When I spoke with Fuhrmark, he said, "As we got into creating the presentation, I changed the title from something generic to ‘The Power of Public Art.’ Public art is more than just an artist and his or her audience. It is more impactful because it includes the concept of our community reflected in the art." Friend related her "why" for the power of public art: "I think a key to the success of public art is its ability to ignite

our imagination, inviting us to visualize the universe in a new way." Renwick added this "why" from the nonprofit group Americans for the Arts: "Public art humanizes the built environment. It provides an intersection between past, present and future. ... Public art matters because our communities gain cultural, social and economic value through public art." Peter Finkle writes about Ashland history, neighborhoods, public art and more. See WalkAshland.com for his Ashland stories.

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Ashland Community Connections | Revels

BUSINESS: SCHARFFEN BERGER CHOCOLATES

‘BEAN TO BAR’ Scharffen Berger chocolate is featured in desserts at Larks restaurant in the Ashland Springs Hotel.

Prestigious chocolate maker Scharffen Berger has moved into the former Dagoba plant in Ashland and has big plans “We want to be an employer of choice in the Ashland area. There’s roots of chocolatemaking in this area.” CHRIS SPIRKO, chief financial officer, Scharffen Berger chocolates

By Sarah Lemon for ACC

he artisan food scene in Southern Oregon is sweeter since the recent arrival of a prestigious chocolate maker. Scharffen Berger moved its headquarters into the former Dagoba plant on Ashland’s Benson Way, which sat idle for the past two years as a Hershey Co. asset. Both Scharffen Berger and Dagoba were Hershey holdings until a year ago, when the former bought itself back from the chocolate giant and acquired the latter in the process, says Chief Financial Officer Chris Spirko. “It felt right to bring back chocolate to the Ashland area,” says Spirko, adding that Scharffen Berger is “embracing the founder mentality.” Founded in San Francisco 25 years ago, Scharffen Berger characterizes itself as the country’s original craft chocolate. Conceived from the beginning as a “beanto-bar” product, Scharffen Berger was born from the passion of California winemaker John Scharffenberger and chocolate connoisseur Robert Steinberg. The partnership focused on expressing the true flavor of cacao, rather than subduing

it with sugar and other additives, eventually becoming the first American brand to specify cacao content as a percentage on its labels. “We’ve made this state-of-the-art facility,” says Spirko of investing $4 million in equipment for Scharffen Berger’s 20,000 square feet of factory and warehouse. Including a granite melanger from Europe, the machinery will be ready for production in July, says Spirko. Roasting raw cacao beans, grinding the nibs, refining the resulting chocolate liquor, tempering chocolate and mixing it with other ingredients are all steps that Scharffen Berger performs in house, compared with the industry prevalence of purchasing chocolate liquor from large cacao processors. “We’re gonna be full bean-to-bar production,” says Spirko, adding that he believes Scharffen Berger’s factory will be the best of its size in the United States. Local talent also is a key piece of Scharffen Berger’s strategy, says Spirko, acknowledging the region’s renown for fine chocolates, among other specialty foods. His company, says Spirko, is poised to immediately add 25 employees to its team of 10 and possibly hire as many as 40 people already based in Southern Oregon.

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BUSINESS: SCHARFFEN BERGER CHOCOLATES

Chief among the chocolate maker’s local commitments is the Oregon Chocolate Festival, which received Scharffen Berger donations for this year’s Chocolate Maker’s Sweet & Savory Provision Boxes, which encouraged participants to bake at home while enjoying virtual programs and festivities. “We want to be an employer of choice in the Ashland area,” says Spirko. “There’s roots of chocolate-making in this area.” And Scharffen Berger’s potential for growth locally is “huge,” says Karolina Wyszynska Lavagnino, director of sales and marketing for Neuman Hotel Group. Partnerships between Scharffen Berger and Neuman’s Larks restaurant and Luna Cafe — not to mention numerous special events — are in the works, says Lavagnino. Chief among the chocolate maker’s local commitments is the Oregon Chocolate Festival, which received Scharffen Berger donations for this year’s Chocolate Maker’s Sweet & Savory Provision Boxes, which encouraged participants to bake at home while enjoying virtual programs and festivities. Next year’s festival at Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites, says Lavagnino, likely will be a bigger draw because of Scharffen Berger’s expertise and the chance for visits to its factory. “I’m just thrilled!” exclaims Lavagnino, who has toured the facility four times. Also encouraging partnerships with local wineries, Lavagnino foreshadowed a Scharffen Berger presence at August’s Oregon Wine Experience in Jacksonville. The chocolate maker already has been featured alongside Belle Fiore for the label’s

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Scharffen Berger chocolate, recently relocated to Ashland, is featured in desserts at Larks restaurant in the Ashland Springs Hotel.

wine club release, says Spirko. Such collaborations extend the influence that Scharffen Berger enjoyed among California wineries and culinary destinations, he adds.

“We’re in a perfect area to partner with great wines.” While Dagoba used to hold some of that distinction in Southern Oregon, there is no timeline for reinstating the

brand in the near future, says Spirko, formerly of M&M Mars. Scharffen Berger’s leadership, including Chief Executive Officer Paul Cherrie, experts from Hershey and Scharffenberger, himself, are immersed in ensuring that brand’s integrity. A champion of eco-conscious and sustainable farming, Scharffen Berger sources cacao exclusively from growers certified by Rainforest Alliance, an international nonprofit organization working to conserve biodiversity and promote the rights and wellbeing of workers, their families and communities. Scharffen Berger touts its routine visits to farms growing its cacao in Madagascar, Indonesia, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Trinidad, Tanzania, Venezuela, Brazil, Panama, Vietnam, Grenada, Papua New Guinea, Bali, Ghana and Peru. Known for its organic certification, hand-poured methods and even recipes with medicinal herbs, Dagoba cost Hershey $17 million for its 2006 purchase from founder Frederick Schilling. Yet Dagoba was never a bean-to-bar operation like Scharffen Berger, notes Spirko. The company has not disclosed what it paid Hershey last year, but value remains in the Dagoba name. “Dagoba holds a special place in the hearts of Oregonians,” says Spirko.

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Scharffen Berger donated chocolate for provisions boxes featured in this year’s virtual Oregon Chocolate Festival.

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GET READY! GET SET! GO!

Emergency evacuation zones adopted By Allayana Darrow

Get Ready!

for ACC

Nearly one month after fire season was declared for southwest Oregon, Jackson County municipalities are in the midst of rapid revisions to emergency operations plans, and several have rolled out new evacuation zones to better manage disaster situations. Cities in Jackson County are accountable for emergency response within their limits and have individual emergency operations plans, said Jackson County Administrator Danny Jordan. Jordan halted an update in progress on Jackson and Josephine counties’ emergency operations plans after the Almeda and East Obenchain fires, recognizing that after-action reviews from the incidents would likely illuminate new, essential changes, he said. A recently released report on fire response compiled by Innovative Emergency Management commended rapid multi-agency response, mass evacuations and shelter setup, and creation of live evacuation maps, but criticized communication breakdowns between officials and the public. According to Aaron Ott, Medford emergency manager, new interactive evacuation zone maps and citizen alert systems improve capacity to distribute focused emergency notifications to the public. Medford’s new interactive map allows residents to identify their zone and print out evacuation routes and checklists in English or Spanish, Ott said. Medford is divided into 14 zones. The city’s emergency operations plan is under revision and slated for adoption in the coming months, he said. “We will review the evacuation zones and neighborhood route maps after each fire season and incorporate any changes as needed,” Ott said. Visit MedfordOregon.gov/ BePrepared to find your route. The mapping tool covers addresses within Medford city

Go Kit Create a Go Kit for each family member. Keep these Go Kits in your evacuation vehicle or close to the front door for easy access when you get orders to evacuate. In your Go Kit, include the following: ❑ Cell phone with charger, extra battery ❑ ID ❑ Pocket radio (test that the radio can tune to 1700AM in Ashland to receive emergency notifications) ❑ Medications ❑ Personal records (see page 2 for a comprehensive checklist) ❑ Water ❑ 1 day food supply ❑ Working flashlight ❑ N95 to help breath through smoke If you have pets, place carrier(s) near the front door with a day's worth of food and water. If you have larger animals, prepare transport and consider moving them to a safer location early, before evacuation orders are placed.

Before You Leave Complete this checklist if you have time before leaving your home in an evacuation:

❑ Shut all doors and windows ❑ Remove combustible window shades and curtains ❑ Bring flammable outdoor furniture inside, and move furniture to the center of the room, away from windows ❑ Leave indoor and outdoor lights on ❑ Shut off HVAC or window A/C units and ceiling fans

Prepare your family for after the fire While it is not likely that you will have to seek shelter for a long period of time, having a two-week kit will ensure that you are prepared to survive at home, outside, or in a shelter without power or emergency services. Your two-week kit should include a minimum of the following: ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑

2 week supply nonperishable food Water (1 gal per person per day) First aid kit Cell phone with charger, extra battery Prescriptions and medical devices Sleeping bag/blanket for everyone Sanitizer

❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑

Change of clothes Matches/lighter N95 mask Battery powered or hand cranked radio Working flashlight Camp stove Pet food

An interactive evacuation zone map with address search, go-bag packing and evacuation checklists are available at ashland.or.us/evacuate. limits and Fire District No. 2. Jackson and Deschutes counties are in the early stages of evaluating an evacuation platform called Zonehaven, Ott said. The Oregon State Fire Marshal selected the two counties to test the format, and the city of Medford has joined in the evaluation to determine its “feasibility in future use,” he said. According to the Zonehaven website, the tool “helps first responders plan, train and execute live evacuations” with instant alerts, real-time updates, preplanning and training opportunities. Phoenix police Chief Derek Bowker said Talent and Phoenix are following suit with Medford’s zoning format — on a smaller scale given their smaller populations. Pending further input from City Council, Phoenix will be

divided into two evacuation zones, east and west of Interstate 5. “It makes it easier when emergency notifications go out, if something was happening on the east side, where we need to get the people in that zone alerted and ready to move for whatever reason, then we could contact Jackson County Emergency Management and have them send out an alert notifying Phoenix residents in Zone 1,” Bowker said. “We would not have evacuated Zone 1 during the Almeda fire — we would have only evacuated Zone 2, and we would have had Zone 1 on standby and ‘Be Ready,’” he continued. “In these types of emergencies that are evolving throughout time, if you break it down into sections like this, you don’t affect as many people and worry as many people.”

Bowker said he will recommend a review of the city’s emergency operations plan as Phoenix City Council prepares to undergo a strategic planning session in the coming weeks. Newer councilors must be well-versed in what is on the books currently, and raise any questions or recommended changes, he said. Dividing cities into zones allows disaster alerts to be distributed in a focused area, keeping residents who aren’t imminently threatened by the emergency off the road, according to Ashland city officials. Evacuation zone maps and information are scheduled to arrive at every Ashland residence in the mail this week. An interactive map with address search, go-bag packing and evacuation checklists are available at ashland.or.us/evacuate. The city of Talent approaches finalization on an evacuation plan, also including an interactive GIS map, according to City Manager Jamie McLeod-Skinner. Residents can type in their

address and see the route out. Talent City Council reviewed the plan at its June 2 meeting, with a demonstration by Talent police Chief Jennifer Snook and Councilor David Pastizzo. Once finalized, the map will be available on the city website. “The jurisdictions in our area are standardizing their efforts to develop a consistent approach to creating evacuation zones, as well as how they will be presented to the public,” Pastizzo said. A work group was composed in November 2020 to establish evacuation zones and incorporated input from Fire District No. 5 Chief Charles Hanley and Talent Public Works Director Bret Marshall, according to Snook. “There are several other efforts underway,” McLeod-Skinner said. “I anticipate holding a Special Emergency Preparedness Town Hall on June 23 to provide information and answer community questions.”

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Ashland Community Connections | Revels