Grants Pass Tribune - Sun. March 17, 2024

FOR THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE.

MARCH 17, 2024

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From Homelessness to Hope: the inspirational journey of Kevin Lotz at Gospel Rescue Mission

By: Annie Foster, Mission Graduate

Photos

By:

Eric Mortinson

Kevin Lotz is what you might call a regular guy. His pants go on one leg at a time, usually frontwards. He’s known for his quick wit and good nature. He’s worked all his life, at one thing or another. And he loves his little dog Max, something fierce.

A little more than a year ago, Lotz, 63, was working a pool route in Palm Springs, CA. He had stable housing for him and Max, and homelessness was the furthest thing from his mind. He just wasn’t feeling very well.

It wasn’t anything specific at first, just a general malaise, but eventually he noticed his breathing was becoming more and more labored, and he decided he better get checked out. He found out his heart was only pumping at about 17 percent of capacity, and he was at risk of having a heart attack at any moment.

He hadn’t been thinking about retiring, but with his health on the line, Lotz opted to take his Social Security early, becoming one of the millions of senior Americans with no private pension or retirement to draw from, only his Social Security. Lotz returned to Grants Pass, where he found his minimal government income alone was nowhere near enough to live on independently. Grants Pass is nationally notorious for its unaffordability, due largely to the high cost of housing here.

Fortunately for Lotz, he had family willing to take him in. He moved in with his sister and nieces, and in so doing, became part of the fastest growing segment of American households, those who live in extended family housing arrangements.

According to research by the National Institutes of Health, the motivations for creating such arrangements

Addressing City Divisions

Despite decades in government Biden blames past governments, plays race card

By: James Justice

President Joe Biden initiated the commencement of $3.3 billion in infrastructure spending on Wednesday, aiming to address historical injustices by investing in projects that seek to reconnect urban neighborhoods once divided by interstate highways. The President made this announcement during his visit to Milwaukee, where he also officially launched his re-election campaign office in Wisconsin, a crucial swing state.

Wisconsin typically sees Democratic party campaigns based in Madison, the state capital. However, the Biden re-election campaign chose Milwaukee for its industrial diversity and significant Black population, with 40% of residents identifying as Black. The Republican party will hold its convention in Milwaukee in July, underlining the strategic importance of the city

in the upcoming election.

Biden’s visit to swing states follows his impassioned State of the Union address last week, indicating a proactive approach to campaigning early in his presidency. He is scheduled to travel to Michigan, a part of the Democratic “blue wall”, along with Pennsylvania, a state he has frequented due to its electoral significance.

The President’s focus on swing states is strategic, as Donald Trump won all three states in 2016, though Biden reclaimed them in 2020. Securing these states is crucial for Biden’s potential second term bid. Both Biden and Trump are set to be officially nominated by their parties this summer, marking a rare presidential election rematch.

The infrastructure funding, derived from the Biden

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range from familial altruism to simple cost sharing, as in Kevin’s case. They are often a stop-gap measure to prevent a family member from sliding into homelessness.

But blending households under a single roof is fraught with challenges, and in time, it became clear that Kevin’s situation would not hold up over the long haul. So, he packed his gear and his little dog and moved on.

His next stop was a rented tent space at Woodcreek Campground. But at $30 a night, Kevin was using all his income just for a place to pitch a tent, leaving nothing to actually live on day to day.

“I could see there was no light at the end of that tunnel,” Kevin says. “But I needed help.”

He started searching the internet for solutions, and that’s how he found the Gospel Rescue Mission.

“I stood outside the building and felt embarrassed and ashamed,” Kevin recalls. It was hard to accept that he needed the services of the Mission’s shelter. But he didn’t want his pride to get in the way of legitimate help. Little Max went back to his sister’s house, and Kevin moved into the Mission.

“I gave up smoking, not because I really wanted to, but because that’s what I agreed to,” he said. “I’m not big on breaking promises.”

Like all mission residents, Kevin had to work for his keep. He had experience in retail, so he was initially placed at

Happy St. Patty’s

Day

The Colorful History Behind St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations

By: Shamus Otoole

St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated annually on March 17th, is a cultural and religious observance honoring the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick. Despite its deep roots in Irish tradition, the holiday has evolved into a global phenomenon celebrated by millions around the world with parades, feasts, and the donning of green attire. The history of St. Patrick’s Day is rich and multifaceted, blending religious reverence with cultural festivities.

The origins of St. Patrick’s Day can be traced back to the early 17th century when the Catholic Church designated March 17th as a feast day in honor of St. Patrick, who is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland. St. Patrick, born in Roman Britain in the late 4th century, was kidnapped by Irish

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• see HOPE, page 5

Official White House Photo by Adam Schultz, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons President Joe Biden delivers remarks August 15, 2023 in Milwaukee

The U.S. Government’s strategic maneuvering leaves citizens feeling like pawns

By: James Justice

In the intricate landscape of political decisions and power plays, citizens often find themselves caught in the crossfire, feeling more like pawns than players in the game. Recent events in the United States have brought this sentiment to the forefront as the government’s maneuvers seem to be strategically calculated, leaving many questioning their role and impact on the grand chessboard of national affairs.

Amidst ongoing debates over policies ranging from healthcare and taxation to foreign relations and environmental protections, citizens are increasingly vocal about their frustrations with what they perceive as the government’s disregard for their well-being. The metaphor of a chess game, where the government holds the power and citizens are mere pieces to be moved, resonates strongly with those who feel disenfranchised and marginalized by decision-makers.

One area of contention is the handling of public health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. From conflicting messaging to inconsistent regulations, many Americans feel like casualties of a larger strategy rather than beneficiaries of proactive governance. The vaccination rollout, in particular, has been plagued by logistical challenges and political posturing, leaving citizens uncertain about their safety and future.

Economic policies also come under scrutiny, with accusations of favoritism toward corporate interests at the expense of everyday Americans. The widening wealth gap and disparities in access to resources further exacerbate feelings of being used as expendable pieces in a high-stakes game of economic chess.

On the international stage, geopolitical tensions and military engagements add another layer of complexity to the metaphorical chessboard. Decisions made by policymakers have far-reaching consequences, yet citizens often feel powerless to influence or understand the motivations behind them.

Their current actions at the US border raise additional concerns over the U.S. government’s strategic maneuvers,

President Joe Biden’s handling of the border crisis has become a focal point of contention. Citizens argue that Biden’s executive orders and lack of attention to border policies have not only exacerbated the situation but have also encouraged further influx of migrants. Despite reassurances that his administration is working to address the issue, Biden’s actions tell a different story. Notably, the President’s decision to sue Texas Governor Greg Abbott over efforts to secure the border has sparked outrage, with many viewing it as a contradictory move that undermines genuine efforts to tackle the crisis. This clash underscores the disconnect between the government’s rhetoric and its actions, leaving citizens feeling increasingly disillusioned and marginalized in the political landscape.

In response to these concerns, grassroots movements and advocacy groups have emerged, demanding transparency, accountability, and meaningful engagement in the political process. Calls for systemic change and a reimagining of governance that prioritizes the well-being and agency of citizens reverberate across the country.

As the game of politics continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether the U.S. government will heed the voices of its citizens or persist in treating them as mere pawns in a larger scheme. What is clear, however, is that the sentiment of being powerless in the face of calculated maneuvers is driving a growing movement for change. Only time will tell whether the government chooses to listen and adapt or maintain the status quo at the expense of those it is meant to serve.

Biden addresses historical disparities with infrastructure spending

administration’s 2021 legislation, is designated for over 40 states. It aims to address historical disparities caused by transportation infrastructure projects, particularly impacting Black, brown, Asian American, and Hispanic communities. In Milwaukee, Biden announced a $36.6 million federal grant to enhance infrastructure in the South 6th Street area of Bronzeville, a historically African American neighborhood. He emphasized the detrimental impact of interstate highways, which led to the demolition of thousands of homes and businesses, disproportionately affecting Black and impoverished neighborhoods in the 1960s.

Biden pledged to rectify these historical wrongs and deliver environmental justice to marginalized communities. His administration aims to mitigate the adverse effects of urban renewal projects and highway development, which displaced millions across the country.

During his address, Biden criticized his predecessor, Donald Trump, for mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic, citing it as a failure of presidential duty. This statement reflects Biden’s ongoing efforts to differentiate his administration’s approach from that of the previous administration.

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COMMUNITY

Hope, and the story of Kevin Lotz

the Mission’s Booth Street Thrift Store. But it was not long before his level head and work ethic drew the attention of Mission staff, and Men’s Coordinator Bobby Galli offered Kevin a position as a resident advisor in the men’s house.

The RA job is essentially administrative in nature, but it entails a lot of work directly with the residents themselves, including screening for admission and tracking their behavior to ensure compliance with Mission rules.

“I didn’t really feel comfortable in that watchdog role,” Kevin said. “But Bobby told me, ‘The fact that you’re not too comfortable with it, is what will make you good at it.’”

GRM is considered a high-barrier shelter because residents must agree to follow strict rules of conduct in order to be admitted and receive services and programming. Those rules include sticking with established work and house schedules, attending church weekly and daily chapel sessions, and following through on various tasks tailored to help each resident get his life in order, in preparation for self-sufficiency. But perhaps the most challenging for many new residents is the Mission’s requirement of absolute abstinence from drugs, alcohol, and nicotine. RAs like Kevin are often the enforcers who must hold residents accountable when it appears they have fallen off the wagon.

“We had one guy who went across the street to the store and met somebody in a car who passed him a joint out the window, then took off and left him with the joint. He stood there and

smoked the rest of it, in clear view of the RA’s office,” Lotz said. It was his job to break the news to the resident that he would have to leave the house. These interactions require a certain delicacy, because violators don’t always take the news well, but Lotz explains that it’s important to be rigorous about the abstinence rules, in particular.

“It’s really for the safety of everyone in the house. We have guys in there who are really struggling to get clean, and they come to the mission for a safe space,” said Lotz. “We can’t have guys coming in there stinking of weed and triggering craving for guys who are earnestly trying to turn their lives around.”

Lotz spent just a few months living at the Mission before he was able to locate housing. Galli submitted a recommendation for Lotz to go into a new senior independent living home in town. Operated by Mid-Rogue Foundation, a philanthropic arm of Allcare, the Evans Place home offers a subsidized private room in a shared home with minimal rules. The best thing for Lotz was being able to be reunited with his little buddy, Max. In short order, she made herself a popular addition to the household.

“I’m comfortable here, and Max has been welcomed,” said Lotz. “It feels like home. But I am so grateful for the time I spent at the Mission. It was safe and sane and structured, and really helped me get my head together and break out of that downward spiral. I’ll always be grateful for that.”

St. Patrick’s Day has a colorful history

FROM PAGE 1

raiders at the age of 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. After six years of captivity, he escaped and returned to his homeland, only to be called back to Ireland later in life as a missionary. St. Patrick is said to have used the threeleafed shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity to the Irish people, thus becoming an enduring symbol of the holiday.

For centuries, St. Patrick’s Day was primarily observed as a religious holiday in Ireland, marked by church services and solemn processions. However, the holiday gradually evolved into a more secular celebration of Irish culture and heritage, particularly among Irish immigrants in the United States.

The first St. Patrick’s Day parade on record took place not in Ireland, but in New York City in 1762, organized by

Irish soldiers serving in the British army. Over the years, the parade grew in popularity, eventually becoming an annual tradition that attracts millions of spectators from around the world. Today, St. Patrick’s Day parades are held in cities across the globe, from Dublin to Tokyo, showcasing Irish music, dance, and folklore.

One of the most enduring symbols of St. Patrick’s Day is the color green, which has been associated with Ireland since at least the 17th century. Green ribbons and shamrocks were worn as early as the 17th century as a symbol of Irish pride and solidarity. The tradition of wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day was further popularized in the United States, where it became customary to pinch anyone who failed to wear green on the holiday.

GRANTS PASS WEATHER

5 DAY OUTLOOK

SOURCE: WEATHER.COM

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Sunny 73/41 Sunny 77/45 Sunny 76/44

WEDNESDAY

Mostly cloudy 61/43

THURSDAY

Showers 59/42

In addition to parades and wearing green, St. Patrick’s Day is also celebrated with traditional Irish food and drink. Corned beef and cabbage, a staple of Irish-American cuisine, is a popular dish served on St. Patrick’s Day, along with hearty Irish stews and soda bread. And, of course, no St. Patrick’s Day celebration would be complete without a pint of Guinness or a glass of Irish whiskey.

While St. Patrick’s Day has become synonymous with revelry and merriment, it remains deeply rooted in Irish history and culture. It is a day to honor the legacy of St. Patrick and celebrate the enduring spirit of the Irish people, wherever they may be. So whether you’re attending a parade, enjoying a traditional Irish meal, or simply raising a glass with friends, St. Patrick’s Day is a time to come together and celebrate all things Irish.

CORNED BEEF AND CABBAGE RECIPE FOR ST. PATRICK’S DAY RECIPE

St. Patrick’s Day is synonymous with celebrations, parades, and of course, traditional Irish cuisine. One of the most beloved dishes enjoyed on this festive occasion is Corned Beef and Cabbage. Originating from Ireland but popularized in America by Irish immigrants, this hearty dish has become a staple on St. Patrick’s Day tables around the world. Here’s a delicious recipe to help you bring the luck of the Irish to your own kitchen.

INGREDIENTS:

• 3-4 pounds corned beef brisket

• 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns

• 4 cloves garlic, peeled

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 large onion, peeled and quartered

• 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and quartered

• 4-6 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks

• 1 small head of cabbage, cut into wedges

• Whole grain mustard, for serving (optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

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1 | Rinse the corned beef brisket under cold water to remove any excess brine. Place in a large pot or Dutch oven and cover with cold water. Add the whole black peppercorns, garlic cloves, bay leaves, and quartered onion to the pot. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. 2 | Once the water comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover. Allow the corned beef to simmer gently for about 2 ½ to 3 hours, or until it is fork-tender. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface of the water occasionally during cooking. 3 | After the corned beef has cooked for about 2 hours, add the potatoes and carrots to the pot. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 30-40 minutes. 4 | In the last 15-20 minutes of cooking, add the cabbage wedges to the pot. Allow the cabbage to cook until it is softened but still retains some texture. 5 | Once the corned beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked to your liking, remove the brisket from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it against the grain into thin slices. Arrange the sliced corned beef on a serving platter, surrounded by the cooked vegetables. 6 | Serve the Corned Beef and Cabbage hot, with some of the cooking liquid spooned over the top. Accompany with whole grain mustard on the side for extra flavor. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. 7 | Gather your friends and family around the table and enjoy this classic St. Patrick’s Day feast together. Don’t forget to raise a toast to the luck of the Irish as you savor every bite of this delicious and comforting meal!

Gluten-Free Pacific Northwest Marionberry Cake

For those of you with restrictive diets, or those that simply just prefer to cut gluten we have a delectable solution! Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Pacific Northwest with our Gluten-Free Marionberry Cake recipe. Bursting with the sweet essence of locally harvested Marionberries, this delightful treat is not only a celebration of the region’s iconic fruit but also a gluten-free delight for those with dietary preferences. Crafted with a tender gluten-free batter and generously studded with plump Marionberries, each bite of this cake offers a taste of the lush landscapes and bountiful orchards of the Pacific Northwest. Follow along as we guide you through creating a moist, flavorful cake crowned with a homemade Marionberry sauce – a dessert that embodies the essence of the region while accommodating a gluten-free lifestyle.

YOUR RETIREMENT GUIDE TO YOUTHFUL LIVING

CREATING THE PERFECT GARDEN IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST

BY: ELLEN WARD

FOR MANY SENIORS in the Pacific Northwest, gardening isn’t just a hobby – it’s a way of life. With its mild climate, abundant rainfall, and fertile soil, the region offers the perfect conditions for cultivating a thriving garden. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just beginning to explore the joys of gardening, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you create the perfect garden in the Pacific Northwest.

The Pacific Northwest boasts a unique climate characterized by mild temperatures, ample rainfall, and relatively short summers. This climate is ideal for growing a wide variety of plants, including vegetables, fruits, flowers, and native species. However, it’s essential to consider the region’s distinct seasons and weather patterns when planning your garden.

When selecting plants for your Pacific Northwest Garden, opt for varieties that are well-suited to the region’s climate and conditions. Native plants, such as Oregon grape, salal, and sword ferns, are excellent choices for adding beauty and biodiversity to your garden while requiring minimal maintenance.

For vegetable gardening, consider crops that thrive in cool, moist conditions, such as lettuce, kale, carrots, and broccoli. Additionally, don’t forget to include some cold-hardy herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage, which can add flavor to your culinary creations yearround.

Incorporating sustainable gardening practices not only benefits the environment but also makes gardening more manageable for seniors. Consider implementing techniques such as composting, mulching, and water conservation to reduce waste, improve soil health, and conserve resources.

To conserve water, consider installing a drip irrigation system or utilizing rain barrels to collect rainwater for irrigation. Mulching with organic materials like wood chips or straw can help retain moisture in the soil and suppress weeds, reducing the need for frequent watering and weeding.

For seniors with limited mobility or physical disabilities, making your garden accessible is essential for ensuring that you can continue to enjoy gardening safely and comfortably. Consider raised beds or container gardening to minimize bending and stooping, making it easier to plant, tend, and harvest your crops.

Incorporate wide paths and sturdy handrails to facilitate navigation throughout the garden, and install ergonomic tools and equipment designed specifically for seniors to reduce strain and fatigue while gardening.

In addition to providing habitat for wildlife and supporting ecosystem health, native plants add a sense of place and beauty to your garden. Consider incorporating native shrubs, trees, and wildflowers into your landscape design to create a naturalistic and sustainable garden that reflects the unique character of the Pacific Northwest.

For seniors looking to connect with fellow gardeners and share their love of gardening, joining community gardens or gardening clubs can be a rewarding experience. These groups offer opportunities to socialize, exchange gardening tips and expertise, and participate in communal gardening projects, fostering a sense of camaraderie and community spirit.

Creating the perfect garden in the Pacific Northwest is a delightful and rewarding endeavor for seniors. By understanding the region’s climate, choosing the right

plants, embracing sustainable practices, and adapting your garden for accessibility, you can cultivate a beautiful and bountiful garden that brings joy and fulfillment for years to come. So roll up your sleeves, dig in the dirt, and let your garden flourish in the majestic beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

To a Ballot in May

To a Ballot in May

To a Ballot in May

“Successful”

“Successful”

“Entrepreneur”

“Goes the Extra Mile!”

“Successful”

“Neighborly ”

“Integrity”

“Neighborly ”

“Entrepreneur”

“Entrepreneur”

“Integrity”

“Integrity”

“Kind” “ Devoted ”

“Neighborly ” “Kind”

“Great Communicator”

“Kind”

“ Devoted ”

“ Devoted ”

“Goes the Extra Mile!”

“Goes the Extra Mile!”

“Hard-Working”

“Great Communicator”

“Great Communicator”

“Fun!”

“Hard-Working”

“Fun!” “Committed”

“Family Man”

“Trusted”

“Trusted”

“Community Leader”

“Hard-Working”

“Community Leader”

“Community Leader”

“People Person” “Friendly”

How Community Members Describe Chris Barnett: “ Vocal” “Ser vice”

“Family Man”

“Family Man”

“Optomistic”“Responsible”

“Educated” “Trusted”

y “ Vocal” “Ser vice”

“People Person” “Friendly”

“People Person” “Friendly”

“Optomistic”“Responsible”

“Optomistic”“Responsible”

“Educated”

“Educated”

“Valued”

“Valued”

How Community Members Describe Chris Barnett: “ Vocal” “Ser vice”

“Spiritual”

“Valued”

“Fun!” “Committed” “Patriotic”

“Committed” “Patriotic”

“Intelligent”

“Patriotic”

“Intelligent”

“Spiritual”

“Spiritual”

“Protector ”

“Intelligent”

“Protector ”

“Protector ”

everybody! I have been blessed to live and thrive in this wonderful county and I would be honored to give back and serve you as your next Josephine County Commissioner. Go check out my website to see what I bring to the table - www.votechrisbarnett.com. Thank you.

-Chris Barnett

everybody! I have been blessed to live and thrive in this wonderful county and I would be honored to give back and serve you as your next Josephine County Commissioner. Go check out my website to see what I bring to the table - www.votechrisbarnett.com. Thank you.

-Chris Barnett

everybody! I have been blessed to live and thrive in this wonderful county and I would be honored to give back and serve you as your next Josephine County Commissioner. Go check out my website to see what I bring to the table - www.votechrisbarnett.com. Thank you.

-Chris Barnett