Ashland Community Connections | December 2021

DECEMBER 2021

Promise Kept Truth to Power Club at Ashland High School dedicates public art to influential people of color SEE PAGE 7

ANDY ATKINSON / ACC

Locals take a glance at new murals painted on the side of Ashland High School on Mountain Avenue.

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‘If these walls could talk’ Hear a preservationist’s tales about historic Southern Oregon buildings

By Vickie Aldous ACC

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brick house standing on a street corner in Medford was home to a murderer who conspired to burn ballots and take over Jackson County’s government during the Depression.

The Root-Banks House at West Main and Peach streets is just one of the local buildings historic preservationist George Kramer will discuss during his talk “If These Walls Could Talk: Stories from Southern Oregon’s National Register-listed Properties.” Part of the Windows in Time lecture series, his free presentatiom was recorded Wednesday, Dec.1, and wil be made available on the Jackson County Library Services YouTube channel at youtube.com/c/ JCLSBeyond.

“It’s a little part of Southern Oregon history,” Kramer said of the house.

The Root-Banks House was first owned by businessman John Root, but it was the second owner — Llewellyn Banks — who became one of Jackson County’s most notorious historical figures.

Mired in the Great Depression in the 1930s, many desperate Jackson County residents believed Banks’ claims that their economic woes were caused by villainous forces, including what he called The Gang of county elected leaders, according to historical accounts.

“Banks felt that government was not doing enough to help people get through the Depression. He said an evil cabal was taking their houses and

jobs. It was incredibly tense. People were getting beat up in the streets,” Kramer said.

Banks and his friends launched the Good Government Congress movement. Thousands of their supporters would gather to hear their speeches at the Jackson County Courthouse.

The group’s leaders were guarded by their own militia called the Green Springs Mountain Boys.

Banks’ friends won some of the key elected positions in the county, including sheriff and county judge.

But the outgoing sheriff who lost the election asked the state to investigate claims of election fraud.

A crowd opposing a recount of election ballots gathered at the courthouse. A crew of Good Government Congress operatives revved a truck engine to cover the noise, broke a glass window and stole ballots that were due to be recounted the next day. Oregon State Police discovered charred ballots in the courthouse furnace, and more ballots were later found in the Rogue River.

With investigators closing in on the Good Government Congress leaders behind the burglary and stolen ballots, Banks spoke defiantly at the movement’s last political rally, vowing to lead a revolution.

But back at his house on the corner of West Main and Peach, Banks packed a valise and loaded his rifle as he prepared to sneak away to a log cabin deep in the forest.

Medford Police Constable George Prescott and other law enforcement arrived at the house to arrest Banks.

When Prescott stuck his foot in the door, Banks shot him in the heart, killing him. Police later took Banks

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Kramer will also talk about the landmark 1911 Sparta Building in downtown Medford, which was used as an early car dealership and repair shop by Charles Gates.

“The automobile has come to stay,” Gates wrote in an article for the Mail Tribune about how to buy a car. “The demand for it has proven that it is not a fad that will die in time, as it is well known that when a man has once owned a machine, he will never do without one.”

In 1915, the Mail Tribune wrote that the “Gates garage has instituted a new Ford service whereby an auto is rented out by the hour the same as a horse and buggy. The owner furnishes everything but a driver. By this means people with auto driving inclinations but with no machine can be accommodated.”

Kramer said Gates was key in the development of the Big Butte Springs water supply that continues to provide Medford with water. Gates lived in a Dutch Colonial Revival-style house that still graces Medford on Queen Anne Avenue.

“People probably drive by his house and think, ‘Oh, what a nice house.’

But they don’t really understand who Pop was and what he did, even though we still benefit from it,” Kramer said.

“That’s to me the importance of all this. These things connect us to how our community evolved way back when, before we were born.”

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into custody.

Prescott Park in Medford is named after the fallen constable, Kramer noted.

Investigators later discovered that Banks and his supporters had made plans to kidnap the Jackson County District Attorney, who they hadn’t been able to defeat even with their election tampering. The group also had contingency plans to launch guerrilla warfare in Southern Oregon.

After the shooting of the police constable, the Good Government Congress movement faded away.

The Medford Mail Tribune won the Pulitzer Prize in 1934 for covering the rise and fall of the movement despite threats of violence.

Some of Banks’ opponents labeled him a would-be Hitler. Sentenced to life in prison, he wrote an anti-semitic memoir and died behind bars in 1945.

In addition to exploring the history of the Root-Banks house, Kramer will talk about other historic houses and buildings, including the Chandler Egan House in Medford.

A Harvard graduate and amateur golf champion who was sent West by his rich father to manage an orchard, Egan arrived in the Rogue Valley to find no golf courses.

“Chandler Egan realized that he was basically 300 miles from the nearest golf course because that was in Portland,” Kramer said. “So he built a golf course for himself, and anybody else who wanted to play golf, which is the basis for what’s now the Rogue Valley Country Club. In the process of doing that, he thought, ‘Well, gee. Designing these golf courses is kind of fun.’”

Egan went on to become a prolific designer of golf courses.

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BACK IN THE HOLIDAY SWING Oregon Cabaret Theatre takes the stage with a holiday-themed show after cancellation in 2020

By Allayana Darrow ACC

Last year, the cast had completed final rehearsals for the Oregon Cabaret Theatre’s holiday show when a COVID19 surge forced management to cancel the show. The cast performed a run-through one more time “for each other” and video, recalled Rick Robinson, managing director for the Cabaret.

“It was traumatic to not be open last holiday season,” Robinson said. “It’s one of our more popular times of the year, it’s when people gravitate toward the Cabaret. …

This year, we’re starting to get stable staff-wise, we’ve got a really nice show, and it has just been nice — it has been entirely different from the experience last year.”

“Christmas, Contigo,” written by Carlos-Zenen Trujillo, opened at the Oregon Cabaret Theatre Nov. 18 and closes Dec. 31.

Cabaret actors said administrators’ adaptability, consistent communication and trailblazing approach to cast and staff safety has been crucial, while audience capacity, health protocols, restaurant staffing and finances shift with the turbulent variability of the pandemic.

Carrie Brandon served as cast deputy during the showing of Spitfire Grill Feb. 26 through April 18. About once per week during the run, actors exercised the power granted by directors to stop a show if audience members were not complying with face mask policy.

Audiences were generally respectful, and often it seemed as though people simply forgot to replace their mask, Brandon said.

Neglecting the mask rarely felt like an intentional display of disrespect, because most people coming through the door knew the protocols to which they had agreed by purchasing a ticket, Brandon said.

Robinson and artistic director Valerie Rachelle set expectations effectively and kept theatergoers regularly updated about changes, she said.

PHOTOS BY DENISE BARATTA

“Christmas, Contigo” is performed before a vaccinated and masked audience Nov. 26 at Oregon Cabaret Theatre in Ashland.

Server Isaac Newton pours a drink for patrons before the Nov. 26 showing of “Christmas, Contigo” at the Oregon Cabaret Theatre in Ashland.

“The fact that [Robinson and Rachelle] prioritized safety above everything else in an industry that is so focused on ‘the show must go on’ … now I appreciate that even more, how much they prioritized the safety of their employees,” Brandon said. “I think of them as leaders in the industry for creating a safe work environment.”

For every job offer she considers, Brandon requests to see backstage and in-house COVID-19 safety protocols, and will not accept the job

without confidence in their safety protocol management approach.

“At a time when nobody was vaccinated, I hadn’t heard of anybody else [with the policy],” she said. “I think they have been really good about changing and reevaluating and constantly listening to people, listening to their employees, and knowing what their boundaries are and respecting that.”

The Cabaret’s updated policy requires face masks to be worn throughout every show

and a vaccine card or negative COVID-19 test upon entry.

Audience members are not seated within six feet of the cast and tables can only seat familiar parties together.

The self-imposed policies keep in-house capacity around 75%-80%. Cast members must be vaccinated and are tested for the virus twice per week.

Actors retain the power to stop the show and leave the stage if they notice an absent face mask.

“Given the time we were in, the Spitfire cast used that power a lot more than any of the casts have since,” Robinson said.

The management team has fielded no shortage of negative feedback from people opposed to requiring vaccine cards, Robinson said, which leads to occasional arguments at the door. Robinson and Rachelle handle the majority of vaccine card checking, because “it's something you hate to ask your employees to do,” he said.

Still, in general, for every one person opposed to their policies, five to six people express gratitude for the security, he said.

“We’re upfront about our

policies very early in the casting process,” Robinson added.

“And given the lack of work in the acting industry, we have not had any problem finding talented cast members to come to Ashland and do shows.”

Actor Angela Hernandez serves as the nonunion cast deputy for “Christmas, Contigo” — her first show back in a live space with an audience since early 2020. For Hernandez, previous work during the pandemic has been exclusively remote.

The cast of “Christmas, Contigo” met for the first time on day one, greeted each other like long-lost friends and memorized the show in 11 days, Hernandez said. Taking a COVID-19 test twice per week is an easy request to fulfill after collectively building up desperation to get back on stage, she said.

On the restaurant side of the Cabaret, one staff member left when the company instituted the be-vaccinated-or-test-negative policy.

The restaurant shares staffing and recruiting problems endemic to many organizations in the food and beverage industry: It’s a difficult time to find cooks, servers and hosts, Robinson said.

To meet the labor shortage, the Cabaret increased server and back-of-house wages. The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant also bolsters the company’s ability to maintain kitchen talent, he said.

Robinson recently hired a new restaurant manager, and the staffing situation is settling, he said, representing an improvement over rapid turnover during the summer that led to directors waiting tables and doing dishes at certain times to keep the restaurant doors open.

“I’m looking forward to being able to increase capacity back up to 100% when it’s safer, because I think that when we come out of this completely, there’s going to be a real desire to congregate again, to get dressed up and see live shows,” Robinson said. “I missed it terribly.”

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ASHLAND BUDGET ISSUES

APRC considers tax levy to fund parks

By Allayana Darrow ACC

The Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission considered a proposal recently from parks Director Michael Black to explore a tax levy to fund APRC operations, and to proceed with evaluating the feasibility of forming a Parks and Recreation District.

The APRC study session focused on long-term funding options for the department, which the City Council is slated to revisit Dec. 6.

Councilors will continue to consider APRC’s future funding in the context of structural imbalance across the general fund, and a commitment to identify at least $1 million in reductions or new revenue over

the next two years.

The city budget provides funding for APRC through this biennium, but the next biennium is uncertain, Black said.

A levy could help the department “get back to what the charter intended,” Black said, by establishing funding for APRC separate from the general fund and eliminating budget competition with police and fire, for example.

“The voters who elected to adopt the charter in 1908 wanted the parks commissioners to be elected separately and their funding to be separate from the rest of the city to prevent competition for those funds,” Black said.

After voters passed Measure 50 in 1997, which greatly changed the property tax system in Oregon, park funds

were lumped back into one competitive pot.

If approved as a spring ballot item by the City Council, adopting a levy would require a public vote and would last five years before requiring renewal. Once approved, a district maintains a permanent tax rate, he said.

“A levy, I think, would be a steppingstone on the way to creating a district,” Black said.

“I don’t look at this as splitting off to increase people’s taxes so that they can support parks and recreation, but more separating those funds from the city so that the parks and recreation commissioners truly do have control and management of those funds.”

Black said motivation behind his proposal was twofold — first, insufficient funds across the board force the City

Council to weigh essential and nonessential services, putting funding recipients in competition with each other.

Second, “if we don’t come up with a solution, we will have to accept the solution that is given to us,” Black said.

“What I’m trying to do is get the Parks Commission in a position where we’re not going into this City Council meeting Dec. 6 and hearing how the City Council proposes your budget to be resolved; we are coming to the City Council saying, ‘We think that this is a viable solution to this situation.’”

General consensus among the commission was that any refashioning of funding sources should seek to maintain service levels achieved with the historically typical rate of $2.09 per $1,000 of assessed property

value, not to increase funding or grow the department.

The APRC funding rate dropped to $1.89 per $1,000 in 2018, which led to the elimination of staff positions, impacted water access for parks and restricted maintenance capacity, according to Black.

“We’re not asking for anything over and above what we have had in the past. This isn’t trying to increase revenue, this is just trying to make us whole from what we did for decades,” Commissioner Jim Lewis said.

“We ran a very top-notch park system with that amount of millage.”

The commission will vote whether to direct staff to pursue a tax levy and/or a special taxing district to fund APRC operations.

Simple Machine winery receives last drop of Rotary fire recovery funds

By Tony Boom for ACC

Simple Machine, the Talent winery and tasting room destroyed in the Almeda fire, received the final small business grant from a United Rotary Clubs of Southern Oregon effort that has awarded about $400,000 in grants to small businesses affected by the Sept. 8, 2020, conflagration.

More than 160 small business received amounts ranging from $800 to $6,500.

Rotary officers presented Simple Machine’s owners with a check for $5,000 on Nov. 18. The company, which has already rebuilt its facility and is producing wine, will use the money to place signage along highways and on the building to increase awareness of its presence.

The funds were the first cash assistance Simple Mancine has received, said co-owner and winemaker Brain Denner. But he noted that other wineries, crush spaces and vintners jumped in right away after the fire to offer support.

That allowed Simple

Machine to stay in business while it used other facilities and received donations of grapes. It also helped the couple decide to stay in business.

“At the beginning we weren’t sure. Do we have the mental, emotional and financial capacity to rebuild,” co-owner Clea Arthur said.

The couple started an After the Fire presale of white wines bottled from 2020 grapes.

Lots of six or 12 bottles were offered, and the response was strong with orders coming from 22 states.

“It was special for us boxing up all the wine and shipping it out,” Arthur said. The rose and Leverage white blend were shipped this spring. A wine club also offered tremendous support and has grown to 300 members from 250 before the fire.

“It’s amazing to reopen and see the people again,” Arthur said.

The tasting room began pouring Oct. 13. The building is now more visible from the highway as a small house on the front of the lot burned down. That has allowed for more parking space, and food

The tasting room began pouring Oct. 13. The building is now more visible from the highway as a small house on the front of the lot burned down. trucks can now be brought to the site.

Simple Machine used the same 2,700-square-foot concrete pad from the original metal building that was destroyed by the fire. A ring on the concrete floor marks a spot where an oak barrel burned. The couple had leased the building when it was new in 2017 to move the business into a permanent home, then purchased it a couple years later.

Rebuilding allowed them to create a space tailored toward wine production, with rooms that can be controlled at different temperatures, drains in the floor, and walls with materials that can be more easily cleaned after winemaking.

Cost of rebuilding was 40% over the insurance reimbursement due to increased building and materials costs,

Arthur said. Ausland Group did the rebuild in a little under four months. Denner was able to start processing grapes there less than a year after the fire.

“Considering the supply chains and labor issues, it was incredible,” Arthur said.

Ausland handled all phases of the project.

Rotary’s Back to Work program received about half the funds via grants from Rogue Credit Union, Oregon Community Foundation, All Care Health and others. The other half was donated primarily by local Rotarians, but also from Rotary clubs in Grants Pass and as far away as Colorado and Wisconsin.

“It is so gratifying to make a difference in the community.

What you give comes back three times,” said Michelle Corradetti, a board member of United Rotary. The organization is a collaboration of all 10 clubs in Jackson County representing more than 600 Rotarians.

The greatest number of recipients were sole proprietors, such as yard maintenance, house cleaners and handymen and women,

who lost their homes and equipment in the blaze.

Owners of brick-and-mortar operations also received assistance, including auto mechanics, electricians, a bike shop owner, a coffee shop owner, a dog groomer and others.

“We knew that it was small businesses that were going to have trouble putting it back together,” said Bob Hunter, a member of the Rotary group’s board of directors. One of his favorites was a sushi chef who needed a new set of knives after his were lost in the blaze.

Southern Oregon Regional Economic Development, Inc. assisted with the project, Hunter said. They vetted applicants and tracked down paperwork to allow Rotary to get grant checks delivered in a timely manner.

Simple Machine is located at 717 S. Pacific Highway. The tasting room is open from noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.

Reach Ashland freelance writer Tony Boom at tboomwriter@ gmail.com.

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Ashland

120 Acre Recreational Estate • Ultimate Privacy Near Downtown • Well Appointed Main Residence ACC FILE PHOTO

Damage from the Almeda fire is pictured in this 2020 photo.

Oregon will receive $422M in disaster aid after 2020 fires

By Nick Morgan ACC

More than 20% of a recently passed $2 billion disaster aid bill will go to Oregonians with “long-term unmet recovery needs” in the aftermath of the 2020 Labor Day wildfires.

Oregon will get $422,286,000 from the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery, according to news releases this week from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Oregon Housing and Community Services and senators from Oregon.

The $2.04 billion in grants was signed into law Sept. 30 as part of the Extending Government Funding and Delivering Emergency Assistance Act, according to a Monday HUD release.

The funds are required to be used for “disaster relief, long-term recovery, restoration of infrastructure and housing, economic revitalization and mitigation in the most impacted and distressed areas,” according to the release.

Sen. Jeff Merkley’s press office stated that he used his position as chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee to secure the $2 billion.

This is the first time Oregon has received CDBG disaster recovery funding, according to press releases from Sens.

Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden.

The grant traditionally covers

natural disasters such as hurricanes and floods.

California, Alabama, Florida, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Tennessee and the territory of Puerto Rico all received portions of the $2 billion to cover 2020 disasters that include floods, earthquakes, Tropical Storm Isaias and hurricanes Laura, Sally, Delta and Zeta.

The only state to get a larger allocation than Oregon was Louisiana, which will get $594,931,000 for hurricanes Laura and Delta recovery.

According to Oregon Housing and Community Services, several steps are ahead before the state can obtain the money, implement it or even set up a timeline.

The state is waiting for HUD to publish a Federal Register that will outline the process and necessary deadlines. Once published, the state will outline “eligible recovery activities and program requirements.”

Meanwhile, OHCS will conduct unmet needs assessments and develop action plans to determine ways to use the money.

Before that action plan is finalized and implemented, OHCS will hold public hearings with opportunities to review a draft plan and submit feedback.

For more information about the state’s CDBG program, see oregon.gov/ohcs/housing-assistance/Pages/CDBG. aspx.

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FULFILLING A PROMISE Truth to Power Club at Ashland High dedicates public art to influential people of color

ANDY ATKINSON / ACC

Artist Isa Martinez-Moore, middle, takes a photo with friends at the mural dedication ceremony at Ashland High School.

By Allayana Darrow ACC

T

he Truth to Power Club at Ashland High School has dedicated a mural to eight people of color who have helped shape the community, and fulfilled the club’s “Promise to Aidan” with a celebratory event and ceremony on the anniversary of Aidan Ellison’s murder.

Community members gathered around the 171-foot mural facing Mountain Avenue for an event

featuring live music, spoken word, speeches and performances, marking completion of a six-month student-led project dedicated to celebrating people of color, inspiring discussion about race in the Rogue Valley and memorializing Ellison.

Robert Keegan, a 47-year-old white man, is accused of shooting Ellison during a Nov. 23, 2020, dispute over loud music in the parking lot of the Stratford Inn in Ashland. Keegan has reportedly claimed he shot in self-defense.

Keegan pleaded not guilty to

murder in the second degree and manslaughter in the first degree, and misdemeanor charges of reckless endangering and illegally possessing a firearm.

A trial readiness hearing has been set for Feb. 24, 2022, with a 12-person jury trial scheduled to begin Feb. 28, assigned to Judge Timothy Barnack.

Since Ellison’s death, activists, community groups and allies have rallied around his name in calls to address the effects of internalized white supremacy, energize future change-makers and reconstruct

a social and political framework founded in equity and justice.

For the Truth to Power Club, the mural affirms the club’s commitment to antiracism “in words and actions,” and offers the community a constant reminder, gathering place and evergreen promise to do better as a community, club leaders said.

The last bits of paint were brushed just the day before the event — lead mural artist Isa Martinez Moore touched up the borders and added extra layers to cement Aidan’s image.

SEE PROMISE, A8

For the Truth to Power Club, the mural affirms the club’s commitment to antiracism “in words and actions,” and offers the community a constant reminder, gathering place and evergreen promise to do better as a community, club leaders said.

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Jackson County organizations collecting food, funds to help stock pantry shelves

By Vickie Aldous ACC

Marcee Champion was working at the ACCESS mobile food pantry set up at the White City library when a woman walked up and donated $5.

Using bulk buying power with local vendors and discounted prices on groceries through the Oregon Food Bank, ACCESS is able to convert every donated dollar into four meals, said Champion, food programs director for the Medford-based nonprofit group.

“I always want people to know that here, every dollar counts,” she said. “Every dollar translates into four meals. A woman saw us and came up and

PROMISE From Page A7

“It’s so many feelings, it’s hard to commit to even just one,” Martinez Moore said Tuesday. “I’m happy, I’m sad, I’m moved — feeling all of that at once.”

The event coincided with the club’s release of its latest podcast episode, “Southern Oregon’s Racist History,” which takes a close look at the state’s history of racial violence, Ellison’s death and community activism.

Over the course of the project, led by club presidents Isadora Millay and Anya Moore, and faculty advisor Shane Abrams, the mural team secured approval for the public art from the Ashland School District, Public Arts Commission and Ashland City Council.

For Martinez Moore, the mural project “solidified” the planned pursuit of art and activism through higher education and career goals.

The day they returned to work on the mural to find graffiti surrounding portrait spaces, the club leaned into its goal to complete the mural and keep the attention on its positive meaning, they said.

“It was inspiring how many people came to scrub graffiti off a wall,” Martinez Moore said. “It was uplifting in the end; it stayed with the message of this mural, which is making something beautiful

gave us $5. With that $5, that’s 20 meals we can provide for the community. Don’t think, ‘My contribution is too small.’

Every dollar is monumentally appreciated.”

ACCESS has kicked off its 38th annual Food for Hope food and fund drive with a goal to collect 10,000 pounds of food and $30,000 for its network of local food banks.

Food for Hope is the largest annual community food and fund drive to fight hunger in Jackson County, according to ACCESS. Every year, Champion said, ACCESS sees increased need for food help over the holidays.

Community donations are key to meeting that increased need.

This year, Jackson County residents are facing escalating prices for groceries, gas and other basic needs.

The global economy is bouncing back from the COVID-19 pandemic and demand is rising. But food producers and grocery stores are struggling with shortages of workers and supplies, higher labor costs and transportation woes. That translates into inflated food prices, economists say.

“With food prices increasing and the lingering effects of the pandemic, there is so much need for food in our community right now. The Food for Hope food and fund drive helps ACCESS stock up the shelves in

our food pantries so we can get it to hungry families struggling this holiday season and into the new year,” ACCESS Executive Director Carrie Borgen said.

Adding to the struggle in Jackson County, many people are still recovering from the Almeda and South Obenchain fires that destroyed 2,500 homes and more than 170 businesses in September 2020.

Local businesses are teaming up with ACCESS to make giving convenient during the Food for Hope drive.

Grocery bags are available at Food 4 Less and Sherm’s Thunderbird Market.

ACCESS is asking people to fill bags with nonperishable food items and drop them off

at ACCESS, 3630 Aviation Way, Medford; Food 4 Less, 2230 Biddle Road, Medford; Sherm’s Thunderbird Market, 2347 W. Main St., Medford; Jackson County Umpqua Bank locations and local fire stations

by Dec. 31.

The most needed items are cold and hot cereal, peanut butter, canned meat like tuna and chicken, pasta and canned goods such as soup, vegetables and fruit.

Costal Farm & Ranch is matching up to $1,000 in cash donations. Tax deductible monetary donations can be made online at www.accesshelps.org/foodforhope or mailed to ACCESS, P.O. Box 4666, Medford, OR 97501.

out of something difficult.”

Ellison’s mother, Andrea, greeted by warm hugs from students and a bouquet of flowers, thanked the community before cutting the ribbon marking the mural’s dedication Tuesday.

“I just want to say, Ashland, I really appreciate all your support and recognition with Aidan ... and at least finally I can keep him at school,” she chuckled.

The mural features seven rectangular portraits of one size, a larger circular portrait of Ellison, and plaques describing the accomplishments of each individual depicted: ■ Winona LaDuke, an AHS alum, Indigenous environmentalist, economist, activist and author enrolled with the Ojibwe Nation of Minnesota, was the first Green Party candidate to obtain an electoral vote for vice president.

■ Walidah Imarisha, a Black writer, activist, educator and spoken word poet, presented a program at Pacific University in February focused on the “hidden history” that answers the question: “Why aren’t there more Black people in Oregon?”

■ Raised in Ashland, Tehlor Kay Mejia is a first-generation Mexican-American and LGBTQ author.

■ Lawson Fusao Inada, a Japanese-American poet, was the fifth Oregon poet laureate and a former Southern Oregon University instructor.

■ AHS alum and civil rights lawyer Michelle Alexander wrote “The New Jim Crow,” a bestseller focused on a national debate about racial and criminal justice in the U.S. ■ Ashland City Councilor Gina DuQuenne founded Southern Oregon Pride, and is the first openly queer Black woman to be elected to the council.

■ Agnes Baker Pilgrim, also known as “Grandma Aggie,” a Native American elder from the Takelma tribe, is honored for her work with the Indian Health Service and her contributions in public health and environmental activism.

■ AHS alum Aidan Ellison’s portrait depicts the 19-yearold in a blue hoodie — his dark hair defined by a bright orange background and lion

silhouette at his shoulder.

“It has been months and months of planning, sketching, drawing, painting and spending time really pouring my soul into this wall,” Martinez Moore said. “The challenges ... have made me a more whole, rounded person at the end of it and really certified why this mural was so needed.”

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THURSDAY December 2, 2021

IT’S THE

Holiday Season

From a festival of trees to Christmas and Hanukkah celebrations and much more, find out what’s in store around Southern Oregon this year SEE PAGE 11

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CURTAIN CALL

MEZZO-MAGIC

By Jim Flint

CANTOR IS IN DEMAND AS A SOPRANO SOLOIST

for ACC

W

hat would Jesus sing?

If someone had asked that question, the answer might have been a description of what Shelly Cox-Thornhill and her fellow cantors do every week at Trinity Episcopal Church in Ashland: lead the liturgical singing of Psalms, canticles and anthems.

The practice in the U.S.based Episcopal Church, a part of Anglican Communion, can be traced to its roots in the English Reformation and traditions of the Church of England.

When performing alone or as part of the Trinity quartet of cantors, Cox-Thornhill helps lead the musical part of worship, chants Psalms, and supports the church choir.

The quartet at Trinity includes a soprano, alto, tenor and bass. Cox-Thornhill, a mezzo-soprano, sings alto.

“During the pandemic, we took turns or just had a couple people singing,” she said.

“We have recently come back to having the quartet sing weekly. We all sing the choral parts of the service and take turns chanting Psalms each week.”

They also perform from the Episcopalian hymnal and choral works from a wide range of composers and eras.

“A lot of our music is written or arranged by the inimitable Jodi French,” Cox-Thornhill said. French is the organist at Trinity and her husband, Paul French, is choir director.

A Medford resident, born and raised in Talent, Cox-Thornhill doesn’t confine her singing to Sundays at church. The 37-year-old is one of Southern Oregon

PHOTO BY MICHAEL D. DAVIS.

Shelly Cox-Thornhill rehearses with the Rogue Valley Chorale. The mezzo-soprano will be a featured soloist Dec. 4-5 in the Chorale’s production of “Christmas Messiah,” and will perform with Southern Oregon Repertory Singers at the group’s annual holiday concert Dec. 18-19.

Repertory Singers’ core singers, has sung with the Rogue Valley Chorale and Siskiyou Singers, and is in demand as a soloist.

She will be a featured soloist in RV Chorale’s production of “Christmas Messiah,” Dec. 4-5, at the Craterian Theater, and will perform with the Rep Singers, Dec. 18-19, in their annual holiday concert at the SOU Music Recital Hall.

Anyone curious about how it works and sounds can check out Trinity’s livestream on Facebook Sundays at 10 a.m.

For information about the choral concerts, go to repsingers.org or roguevalleychorale. org.

Although Cox-Thornhill

classifies herself as a mezzo-soprano, she always has sung alto in choir. “I think singing alto has helped develop my ear and tuning skills,” she said.

She started singing in the fifth grade at Talent Middle School. A friend joined the choir and that gave her the courage to join, too. Later, she sang in the choirs at Phoenix High School and SOU. Her family was supportive and encouraging.

“Neither of my parents are musicians, per se,” she said.

“They both have beautiful voices and always supported my love of art and music.”

Cox-Thornhill was not an extrovert, by any stretch.

“I was painfully shy and didn’t really find my voice until I started taking acting and musical theater classes,” she said. “The voice teacher at one of those classes, Ellie Holt-Murray, approached me and asked if I’d like to start taking private lessons.

My career just took off from there.”

Like many accomplished artists, she finds auditions can be a bit stressful.

“I am pretty much a hot mess any time I have to audition,” she said.

How does she overcome the anxiety? “I try to really know the material, and just try to have fun with it.”

Theater training can enhance a singer’s ability to communicate through song with the audience.

“With anything I am asked to sing, I look for ways to connect and make it feel as real as possible,” Cox-Thornhill said. “When I can find a way to relate to a piece, it feels very natural. Other times, I really have to stretch my imagination and ‘act’ and it can be difficult.”

Her prep process involves a lot of practice and listening.

“First, I play or sing through the piece and try to get a feel for it,” she said. “Then I listen to recordings of folks who have similar voice types for inspiration. Finally, it’s all about repetition and getting comfortable with the piece.”

Her warm-up is minimal.

“Just enough to wake up my voice and get my mind and body ready to sing.”

She gains confidence by fully understanding and relating to whatever she sings.

“My goal is to portray the mood or story so that the audience can feel it along with me.”

Her biggest challenge is letting go and enjoying herself.

“I sometimes can get too wrapped up in the technicalities of singing, and that can make it hard to show artistic interpretation.”

She has many works on her favorites list, but two stand out: Brahms’ “Alto Rhapsody” and Britten’s “Hymn to St. Cecilia,” both of which she performed with Rep Singers.

“The ‘Alto Rhapsody’ is so dramatic and luscious and rich,” she said, “and I love when the men’s chorus joins in at the end. The ‘Hymn to St. Cecilia’ is utterly beautiful and strange — two of my favorite things! I was inspired to name my first-born Cecilia, in part because of that work.”

The best advice she’s ever been given by a teacher or mentor is “Don’t overthink it.” Perhaps that was the operative principle in her making a pivotal decision when she was a college student.

“I was invited to join Rep Singers by Dr. French after singing in his choir at SOU,” she said. “I accepted the invitation because I longed to sing with the group ever since hearing them perform when I was in high school. I joined Rep Singers in 2006.”

She has had many day jobs while building her performing career. Currently, she is office manager at her family’s business, Affordable Pump Service.

“I plan to remain in the Rogue Valley, raise my children, and continue to sing with Rep Singers and anyone else who will have me,” she said.

What about the future?

“I don’t predict too many changes for me in the next 10 years. But ask me again once my kids have grown.”

Stay tuned.

Reach Ashland writer Jim Flint at jimflint.ashland@yahoo. com.

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Thursday, December 2, 2021 |

HOLIDAY EVENTS

Celebrate the season in the Rogue Valley Magical Christmas Murals: Downtown Grants Pass will sparkle with the fiber-optic dazzle of 20 musical Christmas murals and giant nutcrackers through New Year’s Day. The murals weigh 400 pounds each and include sound systems that play the old-fashioned Christmas music.

The murals, created by local artisans, are 12 inches thick, 10 feet tall, 5 feet wide and are wired with miles of fiber optic cable and thousands of points of lights. A map of mural locations is available in the downtown welcome center.

Jacksonville Victorian Christmas: The traditional Victorian Christmas celebration returns to Jacksonville after a year off due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Celebrants will be able to enjoy such events as the annual parade, tours inside the Beekman House, photos with Father Christmas and more. The annual parade will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, along California St., and will feature over 30 entries. Visitors can take pictures of themselves with Father Christmas from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends through Dec. 19, in front of the Beekman Bank at Third and California streets. Masks are required for ages 5 and older. For further information, see jacksonvilleoregon.org/events.

Rogue Winterfest: The 19th annual event will be a virtual affair held Thursday through Sunday, Dec. 2-5. Four days of festivities will be “broadcast” from the Bear Hotel in Grants Pass. Guests can bid online during the virtual silent auction that runs through Dec. 5. Proceeds benefit Family Solutions, Kairos and Options of Southern Oregon. To view and bid on items offered in the auctions or for further details see roguewinterfest.org.

Holiday Greens Sale: The Jacksonville Garden Club will offer table arrangements, wreaths and swags from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3, near the Jacksonville Post Office on the corner of Oregon and California Streets. Proceeds support local scholarships and beautification projects. Call 541-899-5708.

Beekman House Christmas Tour: See how Christmas was

celebrated in the late 1800s and learn about holiday tradition origins during guided tours from noon to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, through Dec. 19, at the historic Beekman House, 470 E. California St., Jacksonville.

One-hour tours will begin every 15 minutes. Learn the Victorian origins of popular Christmas traditions, find the good luck German pickle on the Christmas tree, hear how Clement Moore and Charles Dickens reinvented the holiday, and sample one of Mrs. Beekman’s sugar cookies.

Also look for “Mrs. Beekman’s Christmas Bazaar,”which has antiques, collectibles, old-fashioned toys, hand-crafts, holiday items, and more available for purchase. Admission is $5, paid at the door. Tours are not recommended for children under 6 years, and groups are limited to six people at a time. Masks are required. Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made at historicjacksonville.org/ victorian-christmas. You do not need to go on a tour to attend “Mrs. Beekman’s Christmas Bazaar.” Proceeds from both the tours and the bazaar go toward maintenance of Jacksonville’s historic buildings, programs and events. Call 541-245-3650 or email info@historicjacksonville. org.

Eagle Point Christmas celebration: The city of Eagle Point will kick off the holiday season with a tree-lighting celebration beginning at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3, at Bob Moore Park, 140 W. Main St. Festivities include caroling, lighting of the city Christmas tree, a visit with Santa and more.

Santa’s “helpers” will pass out candy and stuffed animals to children. The Lions Club will hold a chili feed from 5:30 to 8 p.m. across Main St. from the park.

Cookies, coffee, cider and hot chocolate will also be served.

Because of COVID–19 precautions, photos with Santa will not be part of this year’s celebration. Masks must be worn at all times, and social distancing will be enforced. For further information, call 541-944-2446 or 541-826-4974.

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| Thursday, December 2, 2021

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CURTAIN CALL

CTP ARTISTIC DIRECTOR SUSAN AVERSA

IT’S WORK FOR HER, BUT THERE’S TIME FOR PLAY

By Jim Flint for ACC

W

hen Susan Aversa was in high school in western New York, she had an epiphany: it might be possible to work and have fun at the same time.

“We had an outstanding drama teacher, and I was fortunate to be in shows under his direction,” Aversa said. That’s when she got bit by the theater bug.

She played the Virgin Mary in an annual holiday season Christmas pageant when she was a Aversa senior. “After that, I thought I could do anything!” she laughed.

Today, she is the artistic director of Medford’s Collaborative Theatre Project.

The company was established in 2015 and mounted its first full-scale production in 2016 for the holiday season, producing a new musical version of “The Snow Queen,” the Hans Christian Andersen tale that had enchanted her as a child.

“We wanted to create a resident theater company for the Medford area,” she said.

“Ashland, to my joy, has a great many theater companies. We realized that space was at a premium in Ashland, so we reached out to the new owners of the Medford Center.”

The center supported CTP from the beginning and found a performance space for the fledgling group. CTP’s stage is in a black box theater at 555 Medford Center, across from the Cold Stone Creamery.

The company will present a multimedia production of

MT FILE PHOTO

Susan Aversa-Orrego, left, and Pam Ward talk about Collaborative Theatre Project’s 2019 season.

“The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” for six weeks beginning Nov. 26. It’s based on the Jerome Robinette adaptation of the C.S. Lewis classic.

“When CTP first started, we did musicals with live pit bands,” Aversa said. “But at the present, we are working with pre-recorded tracks.

There are a great many wonderful musicians in the Rogue Valley and we’re looking forward to a time when we can include more live music in our performances.”

During the pandemic, CTP began programming Radio Days productions where performers worked from classic scripts, adaptations and new scripts for the format. Actors work behind their individual microphones, spaced 6 feet apart.

Pam Ward and Daniel Sessions Stephens create the radio style dramas on a regular basis. A Foley table provides the live sound effects, creating a soundscape for theatergoers.

“Pam started with the Grants Pass Radio Players in 2009 and has an enormous affinity for these shows,” Aversa said. “Daniel is also

passionate about the genre. As we’ve grown this form, we’ve found new fans and new ways to expand the program.”

COVID-19 had a profound impact on all live theater.

Because of its size and resources, CTP has done very little streaming. Instead, the company concentrated on its radio dramas, even reimagining stage plays for the format.

Aversa, an Ashland resident, considers her time with CTP as “a unique and exciting experience.”

“I am particularly proud of our production of ‘The Diary of Anne Frank’ (2018), and I loved ‘Death Takes a Holiday’ (2019) and ‘Tuck Everlasting’ (2018).”

She says CTP audiences have grown over the years.

“More people are coming in through word of mouth,” she said. “Nothing beats having someone you know recommend a production, and we’re grateful for the ongoing enthusiastic support. It’s been incredibly satisfying.”

CTP wants to increase its volunteer pool and encourages interested people to join in. They can contact the company through its website,

ctpmedford.org.

“We’re always looking for folks to help build sets and costumes and do the front of house tasks that keep any theater going,” she said.

Aversa’s responsibilities include overseeing the creative aspects of each production, “helping directors to create outstanding performances.”

She often does costumes for shows she’s not directing and creates many of the graphic elements. She writes grants and takes care of the business end of the company.

Steven Dominguez is an integral part of the company.

He created the ACT Out Bilingual Children’s Program during the pandemic.

“We’re looking forward to watching that grow. He and co-creator Leslie Dymond are phenomenal to work with,” she said.

She also credits tech team members Elliot Anderson, Mads Hamilton and Charles Baldwin for their contribution to the success of CTP, along with board members Laura Sutton, Thom Hepford, CJ Reid, and Mike Kunkel, and box office manager Colleen Pedersen.

Along with CTP, Aversa also runs the family business.

“We started Yogurt Hut in 2009,” she said. “While we lost three locations due to the effects of the pandemic, we’ve still got our North Medford location going strong.”

Aversa was born in Buffalo, New York, and grew up in western New York in a family of creatives.

“We all learned to play various musical instruments,” she said, “and were blessed with two incredibly creative grandmothers who taught us sewing and needlework.”

Her first meaningful theater experiences were in high school.

“I remember thinking if I could just simply live in a theater, I would be willing to do anything. And since we started our own theater, I have done just that — from sewing costumes and learning new skills to cleaning the restrooms.”

During college, she had a work/study grant to supplement her living expenses.

Since she had sewing skills, she worked in the costume shop.

When Aversa was a senior, the faculty designer resigned for health reasons. They hired her to teach the costume classes and design the mainstage productions.

“So, in my final year I was both a paid faculty member and a lowly undergraduate,” she said.

That practical experience led to her job as a theater instructor at Niagara Community College immediately after graduation. Having done productions and budgets gave her real world experience the other candidates didn’t have.

Aversa looks forward to getting back to full-capacity houses and larger-scale events, but believes it will be a gradual reopening process.

“We’ve become more comfortable with the idea of everything coming to us,” she said. “Moving beyond that comfort zone will take a bit of doing.”

Live theater is a joint experience shared by play makers and audiences.

“It’s something so incredibly personal and profound when it’s done well. It’s worth the patience it may take to regain it,” Aversa said.

“But when it’s ours again, and the world lights up more fully, it will be glorious.”

Reach Ashland writer Jim Flint at jimflint.ashland@yahoo. com.

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Thursday, December 2, 2021 |

A13

CURTAIN CALL

SOPRANO BALANCES MUSIC WITH CAREER AS A THERAPIST

HITTING THE HIGH NOTES

By Jim Flint for ACC

I

t wasn’t until she enrolled at Southern Oregon University that Jennifer Matsuura first sang with a choir. Before that, she did a little singing in her high school’s theater program, was involved in band, played percussion in the marching band, and performed with the Hawaii Youth Symphony.

Today she is much in demand as a soprano, and a core singer with the 65-voice Southern Oregon Repertory Singers. She has sung opera, is soprano cantor at Trinity Episcopal Church in Ashland, and has sung with a local contemporary Hawaiian group called Ha’ena.

Her fans are looking forward to hearing her sing at the Rep Singers’ holiday concerts Dec. 18-19, and catching her solo debut in Handel’s “Messiah” with the Rogue Valley Chorale and Jefferson Baroque Orchestra Dec. 4-5.

She manages all this while working as a therapist in a private practice, working part-time at a downtown Ashland shop called Prize, and doing some commercial modeling on the side.

It was at SOU where Matsuura met Paul French, professor of music and music director of Rep Singers, who recognized her potential. She started taking lessons from him and was asked to join Rep Singers in 2007, her senior year.

She has degrees in psychology, music, and a master’s degree in mental health counseling. Upon graduating from SOU, she received the AAUW’s Outstanding Woman Graduate in Music Performance award.

“I never thought about singing professionally until I had my first job singing in an opera, and later in an

Jennifer Matsuura performs with Colin Campbell at an SOU Fringe Festival.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Soprano Jennifer Matsuura and Cody Growe perform in a Brava Opera workshop. Matsuura will appear in holiday concerts with Rogue Valley Chorale and Jefferson Baroque Orchestra Dec. 4-5 and Southern Oregon Repertory Singers Dec. 18-19.

educational outreach program for Rogue Opera,” she said.

“I think I was more curious about learning how to sing really well versus singing to make a living.”

Matsuura, 38, born and raised in Hawaii, now lives in Talent. Her parents were an early influence in exposing her to music.

“They enrolled me in ballet very early,” she said, “then piano lessons. They are not particularly musical, but enjoyed and supported my musical endeavors.”

She continued taking dance lessons in her youth, both contemporary and hula, fitting them in with musical theater, youth symphony, and playing soccer.

Sopranos are divided into three basic groups: coloratura, lyric, and dramatic. She

remembers during the beginning of her undergrad years at SOU thinking she couldn’t sing very high.

“I realized I had never been exposed to repertoire that had a very large range,” she said.

“I had never sung in a choir or even seen an opera, and was unfamiliar with those genres of music.”

The more repertoire she was handed, the more she was able to explore the different characteristics of her voice.

“I think I would categorize my voice type as a light lyric soprano that also can move,” she said. “I enjoy the agility of singing coloratura, but also love the warmth of singing in my lower register.”

She has been through her share of auditions. What works best for her in those situations is to be prepared, confident,

and connected to the audition material. “It helps me get out of the way of myself,” she said, “so companies can see more clearly the uniqueness I bring to the music.”

Staying in the moment and focusing on collaboration with the pianist are key for her in the audition process.

What gives her confidence is having the material well memorized. “Then I am able to engage more in the storytelling of the piece.”

When she rehearses at the piano, she has a metronome, a mirror, and a pencil at hand to take notes. More recently, she started recording herself and listening back.

“I developed a condition a few years ago called Patulous eustachian tube disorder,” she said.

The condition causes the valve of the eustachian tube to remain open, allowing sound to travel from the nasal sinus cavity to the ears. The result is some distortion and hearing one’s own voice too loudly.

“Listening to recordings gives me a better idea of how I sound when I sing.”

Matsuura takes considerable pleasure in the music itself, but also enjoys the connection with

other musicians and with the audience.

Not having the sky-high range of a coloratura soprano eliminates certain pieces from her repertoire. But even in her range, there is work to be done before a performance.

“Most of the challenges I encounter are tricky runs or singing a tonally challenging piece,” she said. “I usually address those passages with a metronome and listen to the tonal shifts as I basically memorize the feeling in my body.”

A recent gratifying assignment occurred this summer, singing with the Britt Orchestra doing an installation piece on the hiking trails in Jacksonville.

“I got to work directly with the composer, Caroline Shaw, whom I had admired for years,” she said.

She has a long list of favorites performed with Rep Singers over the years. But the group’s appearances on the Elizabethan stage stand out.

“Some of the most magical memories I have are singing the Songs of Shakespeare annual summer concerts at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival,” she said. The concerts alternated songs by the choir with readings by OSF actors.

Next for Matsuura are rehearsals for the coming holiday concerts. Tickets for the Rogue Valley Chorale and Jefferson Baroque Orchestra’s Craterian Theater performance of Handel’s “Messiah” are available at craterian.org. For tickets to the Rep Singers’ “The Waiting Sky” holiday concert at the SOU Music Recital Hall, call the box office at 541-552-0900.

Beyond that, it will continue to be a busy life for Matsuura, balancing her career as a therapist with her side hustles, and her passion for music.

“In 10 years, I hope to still be singing, learning new music, and collaborating with friends,” she said.

A14

| Thursday, December 2, 2021

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BOOKS

What Leonard Cohen got from wrestling with religion Leonard Cohen: The Mystical Roots of Genius

By Harry Freedman Bloomsbury Continuum.

288 pp. $28

By David Kirby The Washington Post

D

o you ever feel that a book should be an essay, an essay a paragraph, a paragraph a sentence?

That’s not quite the case with Harry Freedman’s “Leonard Cohen: The Mystical Roots of Genius,” a guided tour of the singer-songwriter’s various spiritual influences. But it’s one of those good books that, its charms notwithstanding, would have been even better after a little surgery.

Cohen’s grandfather was a rabbi, and Cohen grew up in the heart of Montreal’s Jewish community. So it’s not surprising that his art drew from the Hebrew Bible (or Old Testament); the Talmud, that many-volumed repository of Jewish law and custom, legend and folklore; and the commentary on Hebrew scripture known as Midrash.

More importantly, he was

BLOOMSBURY CONTINUUM

inspired by the Kabbalah, a mystical tradition that became of greater popular interest early in this century after it was embraced

by Madonna and other celebrities.

Every true artist is eclectic, so like his contemporary Bob Dylan, Cohen drew from Christian sources as well, most famously in “Suzanne,” which in many ways is a musical rewrite of the life of Jesus. But whereas Dylan changed his name from Robert Allen Zimmerman, Cohen was almost defiantly faithful to his decidedly

Jewish identity. He once told a nosy interviewer that, yes, he’d thought of changing his name — to “September” — and when she asked if he meant “Leonard September,” he said: “No! September Cohen.”

Nevertheless, he grew to think that the Judaism of the synagogues was fossilized and mechanical, and he defined himself in a 1967 interview as “a priest of a catacomb religion that is underground, just beginning.”

Cohen spent three years in a Zen monastery in California and was ordained as a Zen monk, but as Freedman points out, Zen is more a way of looking at the world than a belief system and a set of rules like Judaism. Far more impactful on his writing were the poems of Federico García Lorca. The young Cohen wanted to be known for his poetry more than anything else. He said the Spanish poet “led me into the racket of poetry,” that “he educated me,” as did the medieval Persian poet Rumi and three of Cohen’s Canadian contemporaries — poets Irving Layton, Louis Dudek and A.M. Klein.

Still, nothing, as Freedman rightly observes, shaped

Cohen’s art more than the key idea of the Kabbalah: that “something went wrong at the moment when the world was created, leaving divine sparks scattered about the earth, embers that need to be gathered up and restored to their rightful place.” God himself (or herself or itself, as Cohen said) was fragmented.

“Creation is a catastrophe,” in Cohen’s words, and “there are pieces of him, or her, or it, that are everywhere, in fact, and the specific task of the Jew is to repair the face of God.” You see that in a song like “Story of Isaac,” which is based on the biblical account of Abraham’s preparing to sacrifice his son Isaac on God’s orders. God, of course, provides a lamb for the offering and spares Isaac. But how does one make sense of so horrible a plan while hanging on to one’s faith? Not through logic, of course, but art.

Cohen shifted the story’s point of view, added his own takes and may have drawn, Freedman says, on a fable by Aesop that “found its way into Korean folklore” and may have been discovered by Cohen during his time in the Zen monastery.

Or he may not have used that fable at all, Freedman says. He may have simply been doing what creatives have always done, be they poets, songwriters or Hebrew scribes, which is to tell the great stories that spring from the mind’s shadowy corners and find their way to the heart of every culture. Cohen didn’t borrow from the Old Testament so much as he echoed it, spinning his version of stories we never tire of turning over in our minds.

Wouldn’t all this make a great essay? Freedman is a much-published Judaic and Aramaic scholar whose book brims with insight, but the bulk of it is a song-by-song commentary that is peppered with many valuable observations. Both Cohen and Freedman have a lot to say, but the scattershot approach makes it hard to pin them down.

The content of this book is terrific, in other words. It’s the delivery system that could have used a little work.

David Kirby is the author of “Crossroad: Artist, Audience, and the Making of American Music.”

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Thursday, December 2, 2021 |

A15

BOOKS

THIS WAS SOMEONE WITH OUTSIZE AMBITIONS

H.G. WELLS NEVER FEARED TAKING ON TOO MUCH

Not surprisingly, Wells’ final years — he died at 79 in 1946 — were shadowed by an infinite weariness. Instead of the emergence of a rational global society, an unhappy humankind still suffered from the incoherence, hatreds and violence of political and religious sectarianism.

He had failed to change the world.

The Young H.G. Wells: Changing the World

By Claire Tomalin Penguin Press. 272 pp. $28

By Michael Dirda The Washington Post

C

laire Tomalin’s latest biography, “The Young H.G. Wells: Changing the World,” is plainly written, packed with incident and justly admiring without being uncritical. In comparison with, say, the prizewinning “Samuel Pepys: The Unequaled Self,” her new book is also quite openly personal: “ ‘The Island of Dr. Moreau,’ “ writes Tomalin, “is an upsetting story and I still hesitate before returning to it, but when I do find that its narrative power holds me again, despite my reluctance.”

Herbert George Wells was born in 1866 to an unsuccessful shopkeeper and a former lady’s maid. At age 14, he was apprenticed in a draper’s shop, a soul-killing job the boy hated. As Tomalin stresses, only through several lucky turns was Wells able to acquire the rudiments of an education and survive severe malnutrition — at the age of 20, he was only 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighed about 110 pounds. Around this time, though, he performed outstandingly well on a state-sponsored examination, which led to his enrollment in a science program overseen by Charles Darwin’s champion, Thomas Henry Huxley.

Poor health continued to rack Wells’s early life. A serious accident led to a destroyed kidney, followed by a tubercular condition in which he coughed up blood. Until he was over 40, Wells later wrote, “the sense of physical inferiority was a constant acute distress to me which no philosophy could mitigate.” Still, the young man was indomitable, a virtual poster boy for the stirring words of “Invictus”: “I am the master of my fate,/ I am the captain of my soul.”

Appropriately enough, that poem’s author, William Ernest Henley, would be the magazine editor who serialized Wells’s “The Time Machine.” When

PENGUIN PRESS

its book version appeared in 1895, the struggling 28-year-old science teacher awoke one morning to find himself famous.

To this day, no one fully understands how one man, albeit a genius, was able to write so much and so well during the next two decades, but then, as Tomalin says, “Taking on too much was the way Wells lived his life.” This is the period of the major scientific romances, including “The War of the Worlds,” but also of the semi-realist masterpiece, “Tono-Bungay,” the seriocomic romp, “The History of Mr. Polly,” and a score of brilliant short stories, including “The Country of the Blind” and “The Door in the Wall.”

During these same years, Wells also turned out casual essays (“On the Art of Staying at the Seaside”), speculations about the future (published in 1902 as “Anticipations”), and even a stunning political pamphlet for the socialist Fabian Society: In “The Misery of Boots,” he uses the cheap, ill-fitting footwear of the poor to underscore the injustices of the class system. Throughout these same years, Wells corresponded with Henry James and Joseph Conrad (who dedicated “The Secret Agent” to him), helped

care for the dying novelists Stephen Crane and George Gissing, and made an enduring friend of the comparably versatile Arnold Bennett.

Behind all his multifariousness, Wells remained an educator and proselytizer at heart, using his fiction and nonfiction as talking points for, as Tomalin’s subtitle says, “changing the world.” His later books, especially, stressed what he saw as the central message of Plato’s “Republic”: “Most of the social and political ills from which you suffer are under your control, given only the will and courage to change them. You can live in another and a wiser fashion if you choose to think it out and work it out.” Already during a visit to United States in 1906, he voiced his esteem for Black Americans struggling to live dignified lives within “a civilization they are grudged and denied.” American democracy itself, he contended, was being warped by the rich, undermined by “the anarchic and irresponsible control of private owners.”

Not surprisingly, Wells’s final years — he died at 79 in 1946 — were shadowed by an infinite weariness. Instead of the emergence of a rational global society, an unhappy humankind still suffered from the incoherence, hatreds and violence of political and religious sectarianism. He had failed to change the world. Nonetheless, the historian Norman Stone once declared that of all the English writers of the 20th century, Wells is the one he would most like to call back from the dead.

And yet, as magnificent as Wells the public-spirited visionary could be, the private man remains more problematic. “He was,” as Tomalin writes, “a bad husband and an unreliable lover.”

Eager for sexual experience, the 25-year-old Wells married a beautiful cousin. The wedding night proved

disastrous, and he soon took to philandering, eventually hooking up with one of his students, Amy Catherine Robbins. Wells eventually wed Robbins, whom he insisted on calling Jane, not liking her given name. He also insisted that he be permitted whatever love affairs seemed necessary for his health and well-being. This was, in his view, simply the correct, enlightened attitude toward sex. Many intelligent, independent women, including that formidable intellectual Rebecca West and the Russian translator and spy Moura Budberg would eventually welcome his embraces. Yet, Jane — Tomalin calls her “the true heroine of this story” — remained the sheet anchor of his life, as well as his typist.

Still, two troubling early relationships involved besotted admirers half his age, starting with the 19-year-old Rosamund Bland, with whom Wells nearly ran off to Paris before being intercepted by her outraged father at the train station. Even more scandalous was his liaison with Amber Reeves, a Cambridge undergraduate who eventually would bear him a child.

Their affair formed the basis of Wells’s then shocking novel, “Ann Veronica,” in which a young single woman eagerly gives herself to an older married man.

Even more shocking, the book has a happy ending.

Three excellent full-length biographies — by Norman and Jeanne Mackenzie, David C. Smith and Michael Sherborne — chronicle Wells’s colorful life in full. But for a compact overview of this endlessly fascinating man and writer, Tomalin’s “The Young H.G. Wells” is hard to beat, being friendly, astute and a pleasure to read.

Michael Dirda reviews books each week for The Washington Post.

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| Thursday, December 2, 2021

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BOOKS

FREE SOCIETIES AND STATUES

HIGH-PROFILE TOPPLINGS ACROSS FIVE CONTINENTS

Fallen Idols: Twelve Statues That Made History

Most of her subjects are a bit more nuanced than Hitler and his ilk. Author Alex von Tunzelmann explores, for example, why protesters in Portland pulled down a statue of George Washington in the wake of George Floyd’s killing. But we also join the Hungarian revolutionaries of 1956 as they topple the Joseph Stalin statue in Budapest (which the Soviets chose not to replace after they crushed the rebellion).

Alex von Tunzelmann Harper. 320 pp. $26.99

By Colin Woodard The Washington Post

I

n the tumultuous summer of 1776, New Yorkers learned of the signing of the Declaration of Independence when George Washington ordered it read aloud to his troops assembled there. Their reaction was to go tear down a statue.

The likeness of King George III had stood on the Bowling Green — then at the heart of a city that petered out into marshes in Tribeca — for six years. The king, cast in lead and covered in gold gilt, sat on a horse and wore a Roman toga and a crown of laurels.

That night, much to Washington’s chagrin, a crowd of soldiers and townspeople tore the monarchical effigy off its 18-foot pedestal, severed its head, sheared off its nose and laurels, and battered the body to bits from which musketballs were later cast.

Americans were throwing off the British monarchy; a statue intended to celebrate it no longer had a place, and it needed toppling. History had taken a turn, and former symbols of communal pride had to follow.

“Who controls the past controls the future,” George Orwell wrote in “1984.”

“Who controls the present controls the past.” Soviet invaders built monuments to Lenin and Stalin across their Eastern European satellites to assert their control over those countries’ destinies.

Later, uprisings sought to topple these statues by way of

HARPER

opposing all they represented.

Last year, racial-justice protesters beheaded Christopher Columbus in Massachusetts, toppled him to the ground in Minneapolis, and prompted officials to remove Confederate generals from city squares and state capitols across the South. Champions of genocide and race-based slavocracy, they were asserting, will be championed no longer.

And that’s how it ought to be, argues Alex von Tunzelmann in her thoughtful and fast-paced new book, “Fallen Idols: Twelve Statues That

Made History.” Surveying centuries of high-profile statue topplings on five continents, she makes a compelling case that scrutinizing monumental statuary is an integral part of what open societies do as they reassess past values and seek new ones to guide their futures.

Von Tunzelmann, a London-based historian and screenwriter, focuses on a particular type of portrait statuary: sculptures representing historic individuals that are erected to celebrate and promote their virtues.

Michelangelo’s David, the Buddhas of Bamian, the Statue of Liberty and the Washington Monument are therefore outside the book’s purview. The 12 she considers instead include Cecil Rhodes, Rafael Trujillo, Vladimir Lenin and King George V. Her thesis is that portrait statues are inherently problematic. They’re a highly visible form of historical memory-making, an assertion of what values, experiences and stories define and should be venerated by the community.

The problem is that societies frequently reconsider these essential stories as they undergo invasions, liberations, revolutions, and quieter forms of evolution and change. And unlike a festival, museum exhibition, speech or history curriculum, they’re inflexible, closed to revision, history set in stone.

“It’s didactic, haughty, and uninvolving,” von Tunzelmann notes. “We can do better.” It’s a convincing, logic-driven argument that cuts through the emotional and ideological static around statue toppling, which often obscures the facts about how and why they were put up in the first place.

The stories she relates follow distinct trajectories but

have a common pattern. From George III in Manhattan to Saddam Hussein in Baghdad to Robert E. Lee in New Orleans, one subset of citizens erected a statue to assert a story about a people. Years, decades or centuries later those stories had been discredited, the values they asserted now offensive to great swaths of the societies over which the statues loomed.

The same arguments against iconoclasm appear over and over: that it’s tantamount to erasing history; that the person was acceptable in their time; that they can be taken down only through the proper channels and processes; that if we topple say, enslaver Edward Colston from his plinth, will Oliver Cromwell and Winston Churchill be next?

Von Tunzelmann knocks these familiar objections down by applying a simple thought experiment: What if the statue was of, say, Adolf Hitler? Would we forget the existence of Nazi Germany without it? Does it matter that he was popular among Germans in the 1930s? Were U.S. troops wrong to blow many of them up in 1945? If somebody were comparable to Hitler, why should they be beyond scrutiny?

SEE STATUES, A17

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STATUES

a statue of Lenin was erected in Kyiv in 1946 to celebrate the From Page A16 retaking of the city from Nazi invaders, but it was torn down “These arguments for by masked protesters in 2013, keeping controversial statues by which time he had become a do not spring from universal symbol of Russia, independent principles about statues or his- Ukraine’s greatest adversary. tory,” she notes, “but depend As von Tunzelmann also on which statue and what demonstrates, new ideals history you’re talking about.” often arise long before the Their futures, she argues, statues representing old should always open to debate. ones can be brought down.

Most of her subjects are a Imagine the selective amnebit more nuanced than Hitler sia required to honor King and his ilk. Von Tunzelmann Leopold II of Belgium, who explores, for example, why presided over the deaths of protesters in Portland pulled some 10 million at the turn of down a statue of George the 20th century in what is Washington in the wake of now the Democratic Republic George Floyd’s killing. But of Congo. His regime was so we also join the Hungarian brutal — symbolized by buckrevolutionaries of 1956 as they ets of hands severed from topple the Joseph Stalin statue rubber-plantation workers in Budapest (which the Soviwho failed to reach quotas — ets chose not to replace after it prompted the creation of they crushed the rebellion). a new term, “crimes against In the Dominican Republic, a humanity.” mob tore down and beheaded Yet Leopold’s statue still dictator Rafael Trujillo’s statue stands in the Place du Trone in shortly after his 1961 assassiBrussels, seat of the European nation; it stood before a grand Union. It’s regularly doused colonnaded monument to him- with red paint, but as recently self that has been repurposed to as 2015 the city tried to hold honor soldiers who fought for “an homage” to the king in that independence from Spain. And square.

Thursday, December 2, 2021 |

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A18

| Thursday, December 2, 2021

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LIVE EVENTS

LOCAL MUSIC, GROWERS MARKETS & MORE

Editor’s note: Masks are required in all indoor public spaces in Oregon. Check with all venues listed in Tempo to confirm events.

Thursday, Dec. 2 Eagle Point Book Sale: Book sales are held from 12:30 to 3 p.m.

Thursdays at the Eagle Point library, 239 W. Main St. Look for new or gently-used books, DVDs and CDs. Proceeds help fund library programs, activities and collections. For further details, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-826-3313.

Shine Swing Duo: The jazz duo, Steve Shine and Dave Rawlings, will perform classic swing at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 2, at Belle Fiore Winery, 100 Belle Fiore Lane, Ashland. Admission is free. See bellefiorewine.com or call 541-552-4900.

Pub Trivia: Family-friendly games of trivia are available from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays at 4 Daughters Irish Pub, 126 W. Main St., Medford. Participation is free, and there are prizes for winning teams. Call 541-779-4455.

Comedy Improv Sessions: The Rogue Valley Improvers, led by Thomas Hartmann who trained with Second City Chicago, will hold free improvisational comedy practice from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursdays at the Medford library, 205 S. Central Ave. For further information, email forinfoman44@gmail.com.

SOU Jazz, Salsa, and MUSIX Ensemble: The Oregon Center for the Arts at Southern Oregon University Chamber Music Ensembles will present a concert of jazz, salsa, and the debut of the MUSIX—Commercial Music Ensemble— which will showcase some distinctive tones, improvisation, and original SOU student music at 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 2, at the Music Recital Hall, 450 S. Mountain Ave., on the Southern Oregon University campus in Ashland.

Tickets are $10, $5 for seniors and free for full-time students with ID. Tickets are available online at oca.sou.edu, or at the SOU Oregon Center for the Arts Box Office, 491 S. Mountain Ave., Ashland. See oca.sou.edu or call 541-552-6348.

Friday, Dec. 3

Rogue World Music Soundwalk: The city of Ashland and the Ashland Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Rogue World Music to create a winter soundwalk. The Soundwalk, a curated audio track featuring music from cultures around the world, will guide listeners through the festive downtown Ashland cityscape along a set path of visual installations from Friday, Nov. 26, to Jan 6.

The map for the Winter SoundWalk, with each installation point marked, is available for download/printing, and viewing online. Participation is free. For further information, including the soundwalk map and audio streaming or download instructions, see rogueworldmusic.org/ soundwalk.

Gold Hill Book Sale: The Gold Hill library, 202 Dardanelles St., will hold a Christmas book sale from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3.

Proceeds help fund library programs, activities and collections.

For further details see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-855-1994.

Medford Book Sale: Friends of the Medford Library will hold a book sale from noon to 4 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 3, and from noon to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, at the library, 205 S. Central Ave., Medford. Leave a donation of your choice and take as many books as you like. Several thousand books will be available including fiction, children’s, history, cookbooks, travel, gardening, decorating, spirituality, biography, sheet music, children’s educational materials, and more.

There will also be a separate room for vintage books. If possible, bring your own bag to fill.

Masks are required, and room occupancy will be regulated.

Proceeds help fund library programs, activities and collections.

For further details see medfordfriends.org or call 541-779-3246.

Spanish Language Group: English speakers with at least an intermediate knowledge of Spanish can at 11 a.m. Fridays at the Medford Senior Center, 510 E. Main St. Look for casual, supportive conversation and interpretation. Native speakers are welcome to help. Full

vaccination and masks are required. Call 541-779-1829.

Slopes & Trails: Slopes & Trails will host a free meet-and-greet at 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3, at Downtown Market Co. 123 W. Main Medford. The nonprofit organization provides social and recreational activities. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination required.

See slopes.org.

Blades of Grass: The band — guitarist Kathryn Casternovia, Jef Ramsey on mandolin, Fred Mayer on viola, and Bob Rawlings on stand-up bass — will perform a mix of Bluegrass, vintage county and Texas swing at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3, at Belle Fiore Winery, 100 Belle Fiore Lane, Ashland. Admission is free.

See bellefiorewine.com or call 541-552-4900.

Connor Reese: Singer-songwriter Connor Reese will perform a blend of witty originals and quirky reimaginings of classic tunes at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3, at Dunbar Farms Rocky Knoll Winery, 2881 Hillcrest Road, Medford. Admission is free.

See dunbarfarms.com or call 541-414-3363.

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, Dec. 3, at RoxyAnn Winery, 3285 Hillcrest Road, Medford. See roxyann.com or call 541-776-2315.

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.

Jeff Kloetzel: Singer, songwriter and guitar player Jeff Kloetzel will play an acoustic mix of pop, folk and soul, along with original songs at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3, at Downtown Market Co., 123 W. Main St., Medford. See downtownmarketco.com or call 541-973-2233.

Saturday, Dec. 4 Ice Skating: The Ashland Rotary Centennial Ice Rink, located at 95 Winburn Way, across from the Lithia Park playground

in Ashland, will be open for skating every day through Feb. 20, weather permitting. Admission is $5, $4 for ages 6-13, and free for ages 5 and younger.

Skate rentals are available for $3. Concessions will be closed, and masks will be required.

The annual First Frost event is scheduled for Dec. 18, and will feature live music and figure skating performances. Call 541552-2258 or see ashland.or.us/ icerink for schedule and admission information. All changes in participation requirements, scheduling, skating lessons and programs will be posted to the website.

Grants Pass Growers Market: Find local seasonal produce, baked goods, beverages and more from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays at the Josephine County Fairgrounds, 1451 Fairgrounds Road, Grants Pass. 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. Any closures or postponement announcements will be made on the Lithia Artisans Market Facebook page.

Call 808-303-2826 or see lithiaartisansmarket.com Ruch Book Sale: Book sales are held from noon to 4 p.m. the first Saturday of each month, except January, at the Book Barn, next to the Ruch library, 7919 Highway 238. Look for new or gently-used books, DVDs and CDs. Proceeds help fund library programs, activities and collections. Masks are required and book donations are welcome.

For further details see jcls.org

and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-899-7438.

Teen Gamer Day: Teens ages 13 and older can meet to play classic and newly released board games as well as brand-new offbeat table-top games from 1 to 3 p.m. the first Saturday of each month, except January (which will be held on Jan. 8), at the Medford library, 205 S. Central Ave. For further details see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-774-8679.

Oregon Oldtime Fiddlers Association: The group will hold a family-friendly public jam session and dance from 1 to 3 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 4, at the Roxy Ann Grange, 1850 Spring St., Medford. Acoustic musicians are welcome to sit in and play, and dancing is encouraged.

Admission is by optional donation. Masks are required. Call 541-779-8145 or see ootfa4.org.

David Cahalan: Singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist David Cahalan will perform at 1 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 4, at Augustino Estate at The Big Red Barn, 16995 N. Applegate Road, Grants Pass. See augustinoestate.com or call 541-846-1881.

Wild & Blue: The Southern Oregon-based trio Wild & Blue will perform acoustic renditions of classic old-time country, gospel and light rock tunes at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, at Stone River Winery and Vineyard, 2178 Pioneer Road, Talent. Call 541-631-9583.

Shine Swing Duo: The jazz duo, Steve Shine and Dave Rawlings, will perform classic swing at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, at Hummingbird Estate Winery, 1677 Old Stage Road, Central Point.

See hummingbirdestate.com or call 541-930-2650.

Holly Gleason Trio: The singer, songwriter and guitarist, Holly Gleason, along with JD Berlingeri on bass and Jeff Judkins on mandolin, will perform original folk songs along with a few covers at 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, at South Stage Cellars, 125 S. Third St., Jacksonville. See southstagecellars.com or call 541-899-9120.

Not Too Shabby: Singer Lisa Yriarte, guitarist Pete Brown and drummer Mike Fitch will SEE LIVE, A19

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LIVE

From Page A18

play a mix of pop, blues, R&B and contemporary hits at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, at Belle Fiore Winery, 100 Belle Fiore Lane, Ashland. Admission is free.

See bellefiorewine.com or call 541-552-4900.

Robert Cray Band: The Grammy-award-winning Robert Cray Band will perform a signature blend of blues, R&B, jazz, rock, up-tempo and slow ballads at 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, at the historic Rogue Theatre, 143 S.E. H St., Grants Pass. Tickets are $45; must be 21 or over to attend.

Doors open at 7 p.m. VIP ticket packages are also available. For tickets and further information see roguetheatre.org or call 541-471-1316.

Sunday, Dec. 5 David Barnes: The Southern Oregon singer and guitarist, David Barnes, will perform at 3 p.m. Sundays, at South Stage Cellars, 125 S. Third St., Jacksonville. See southstagecellars.com or call 541-899-9120.

Rod Petrone: The classical guitarist will play a mix of instrumentals from Brazil, Latin America and France, along with his own arrangements of Italian compositions at 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5, at Belle Fiore Winery, 100 Belle Fiore Lane, Ashland.

Admission is free. See bellefiorewine.com or call 541-552-4900.

Monday, Dec. 6 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 library branch offers a unique craft for every age group, from preschoolers to adults, and all need supplies are included in the kit. For details, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar, or call the library branch in your area.

Paul Schmeling Band: The Paul Schmeling Band will perform jazz standards from 7 to 9 p.m.

Mondays at Martino’s Restaurant and Lounge, 58 E. Main St., Ashland. Email at artymorlan@ gmail.com or call 541-488-4420.

Tuesday, Dec. 7 Rogue Valley Growers Winter Market: Seasonal produce, bakery items, specialty foods, drinks, art, crafts and more are available from local vendors from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays,

Dec. 7-Feb. 22, at the Phoenix Plaza Civic Center, 220 N. Main St. SNAP/EBT accepted. 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.

Wednesday, Dec. 8 Medford Senior Center Bingo: The Medford Senior Center will host bingo games for adults at 12:30 p.m. every Wednesday and Friday at the Medford Senior Center, 510 East Main St.; $8 for six cards for 10 games. Must be 18 or older to participate.

Doors open at 11:30 a.m. For further details on the games or for a full listing of activities and services available, see medfordseniorcenter.org.

Yarnia: Children 8 and older can learn to knit or crochet from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays at the Eagle Point library, 239 W. Main St. Supplies and instruction are provided. All levels welcome.

For further details, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-826-3313.

Phil Reed: Phil Reed, member of the duo Brothers Reed, will perform original acoustic pop, blues and folk at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 8, at Belle Fiore Winery, 100 Belle Fiore Lane, Ashland. Admission is free. See bellefiorewine. com or call 541-552-4900.

Jeff Kloetzel: Singer, songwriter and guitar player Jeff Kloetzel will play an acoustic mix of pop, folk and soul, along with original songs at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 8, at South Stage Cellars, 125 S. Third St., Jacksonville. See southstagecellars.com or call 541-899-9120.

Southern Oregon Jazz Orchestra: The Southern Oregon Jazz Orchestra — a 17 piece big band — along with vocalist Dianne Strong-Summerhays, will play music for listening and dancing in the style of Count Basie and Duke Ellington at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 8, at Grape Street Bar & Grill, 31 S. Grape St., Medford.

See grapestreetbarandgrill.com or call 541-500-8881.

SEE LIVE, A20

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| Thursday, December 2, 2021

LIVE

|

Eagle Point Book Sale: Book sales are held from 12:30 to 3 p.m.

Thursdays at the Eagle Point library, 239 W. Main St. Look for new or gently-used books, DVDs and CDs. Proceeds help fund library programs, activities and collections. For further details, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-826-3313.

Jon Galfano: The guitarist and composer will play his original instrumentals at 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 9, at Belle Fiore Winery, 100 Belle Fiore Lane, Ashland. Admission is free.

See bellefiorewine.com or call 541-552-4900.

Pub Trivia: Family-friendly games of trivia are available from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays at 4 Daughters Irish Pub, 126 W. Main St., Medford. Participation is free, and there are prizes for winning teams. Call 541-779-4455.

Comedy Improv Sessions: The Rogue Valley Improvers, led by Thomas Hartmann who trained with Second City Chicago, will hold free improvisational comedy practice from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursdays at the Medford library, 205 S. Central Ave. For further information, email forinfoman44@gmail.com.

Fellman and Marc Camilo along with multi-instrumentalist Bob Rawlings will perform a variety of jazz styles at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 10, at Belle Fiore Winery, 100 Belle Fiore Lane, Ashland.

Admission is free. See bellefiorewine.com or call 541-552-4900.

Jim Quinby: Musician Jim Quinby will perform at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 10, at Dunbar Farms Rocky Knoll Winery, 2881 Hillcrest Road, Medford. Admission is free. See dunbarfarms.com or call 541-414-3363.

Tutunov Piano Series: The Tutunov Piano Series continues its 10th anniversary season with a concert by featured guest pianists, Angela Cheng and Alvin Chow, who will perform at 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 10, in the Music Recital Hall at Southern Oregon University, 450 S. Mountain Ave., Ashland. The program will include selections from Brahms, Dvorák, Copland, Hirtz, Milhaud, Debussy, and Ravel. Ms. Cheng and Mr. Chow are both artist-faculty at Oberlin Conservatory of Music and perform extensively in duo-piano recitals together, and with Alvin’s twin brother, Alan. Tickets are $25 and can be purchesed online at sou.universitytickets.com.

Masks are required; attendees must show proof of vaccination or a negative COVD-19 test at the door. For further information see oca.sou.edu or call 541-552-6348.

Friday, Dec. 10

Saturday, Dec. 11

Brain Games: Seniors ages 55 and older are invited to play games such as Scrabble, Boggle or Dominoes or do a creative coloring project in adult coloring books, or puzzle from 2 to 4 p.m. the second Friday of each month at the Central Point library, 116 S. Third St. For further details, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-664-3228.

Shine Swing Trio: The jazz trio, led by Steve Shine, will perform vintage jazz and classic swing at 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 10, at South Stage Cellars, 125 S. Third St., Jacksonville. See southstagecellars.com or call 541-899-9120.

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, Dec. 10, at Anchor Valley Wine, 150 S. Oregon St., Jacksonville. See anchorvalleywine.com or call 541-702-2355.

Gypsy Rogue: Guitarists Dan

Project FeederWatch: Volunteers can help experts count birds that visit feeders at North Mountain Park at 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, at 620 N. Mountain Ave., Ashland. Results will be submitted to Cornell University’s FeederWatch program.

Admission is free and pre-registration is not required. For further information see ashlandparksandrec.org, email at parksinfo@ashland.or.us or call 541-488-5340.

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 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,

From Page A19

Thursday, Dec. 9

specific times will be set to limit number of participants to meet social distancing protocols. Call 541-772-8118 or see roguegallery.org.

Pet Adoption: SoHumane will hold its tenth annual “Share the Love” pet adoption weekend day from noon to 5 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday, Dec.1112, outdoors at the Southern Oregon Humane Society shelter, 2910 Table Rock Road, Medford.

The Saving Train will bring rescued dogs in need of homes to SoHumane prior to the event.

These are healthy, adoptable pets who have been overlooked or have run out of time or space at overcrowded shelters.

Every pet will be up-to-date on routine vaccinations, flea and tick preventative, dewormed, microchipped and spayed or neutered before going home.

There will be no prior holds, and SoHumane’s adoption application procedures will be followed including landlord approval and “meet and greets” with other dogs. Adoption fees will be processed with debit or credit cards. Current COVID-19 protocols will be followed. Adoptable animals can be viewed at sohumane.org. Call 541-779-3215 for information.

Saturday Handweavers Guild: Those interested in weaving, spinning and other fiber arts can meet during the afternoon the second Saturday of each month September through June. For current meeting times and locations, which may change due to current COVID restrictions, see saturdayhandweavers.com or email at kaffeens@gmail.com for more information. All skill levels are welcome.

Brother Angus: Fusing signature vocals and guitar with the sounds of the didgeridoo and bagpipes, Brother Angus will perform tribal Celtic rock music at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, at Hummingbird Estate Winery, 1677 Old Stage Road, Central Point. See hummingbirdestate. com or call 541-930-2650.

JustaDuo: Singer Alois Henderson and multi-instrumentalist and singer Albert Lee will perform easy listening pop and light rock at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, at Stone River Winery and Vineyard, 2178 Pioneer Road, Talent.

Call 541-631-9583.

Sunday, Dec. 12 Stolen Moments: Guitarist Dan Fellman, vocalist and guitarist Conny Lindley and Walter

Lindley on upright bass will play American jazz standards, Latin jazz and Gypsy jazz at 5 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 12, at Belle Fiore Winery, 100 Belle Fiore Lane, Ashland. Admission is free.

See bellefiorewine.com or call 541-552-4900.

Monday, Dec. 13 Study Sesh: Teens can stop by the Ashland library, 410 Siskiyou Blvd., for free pizza, holiday treats, and plenty of extra paper and pencils to help with studying from 4 to 6 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 13. Study in a group, by yourself, or on one of the library’s computers. If in-person programs are paused in December, this program will be moved to Zoom and goodie bags will be handed out to registrants in advance. For further details or to register, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-774-6980.

Tuesday, Dec. 14 Medford Teen Advisory Group: Motivated teens in grades 7 to 12 can meet to brainstorm ideas, discuss books and movies, help make decisions on programming and displays in the teen library, make crafts and more at 4:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month at the Medford library, 205 S. Central Ave. For further details or to register, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-774-8679.

Medford Library Book Chat: Adults 18 and older can discuss selected books with others in this reading group at 5:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of every month, at the Medford library, 205 S. Central Ave. The book to be discussed on Tuesday, Dec. 14, will be “The Secret Life of Bees” by Sue Monk Kidd. To reserve a copy of the book of the month or for more information see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-774-8679.

Bruce Cockburn: Award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist, Bruce Cockburn will perform at 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 14, at the Rogue Theatre, 143 S.E. H St., Grants Pass. 2020 was the 50th anniversary of the release of Cockburn’s first album and he had a tour scheduled to celebrate but those plans were stymied by Covid restrictions.

This rescheduled tour coincides with the release of his career-spanning “Greatest Hits

(1970-2020)” album, which will be released on Dec. 3. Tickets are $35-$55. For tickets and further details see roguetheatre. org or call 541-471-1316.

Wednesday, Dec. 15 Casual Memoir Writing: Adults 18 and older can learn how to write and complete a short memoir of a specific memory in one sitting using a simple method from 10:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of each month at the Central Point Library, 116 S. Third St. Writing samples and supplies will be provided. For further details or to register, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-664-3228.

Not Too Shabby: Singer Lisa Yriarte, guitarist Pete Brown and drummer Mike Fitch will play a mix of pop, blues, R&B and contemporary hits at 5 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 15, at Belle Fiore Winery, 100 Belle Fiore Lane, Ashland. Admission is free.

See bellefiorewine.com or call 541-552-4900.

Phil Reed: Phil Reed, member of the duo Brothers Reed, will perform original acoustic pop, blues and folk at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 15, at South Stage Cellars, 125 S. Third St., Jacksonville. See southstagecellars.com or call 541-899-9120.

Rogue Blues Society: The Rogue Blues Society will hold a jam session from 6 to 9 p.m. the first and third Wednesday of each month at Grape Street Bar & Grill, 31 S. Grape St., Medford.

Social distancing rules must be followed and maintained on stage, including that vocalists provide their own microphones; masks must be worn when away from your table. See grapestreetbarandgrill.com, find Rogue Blues Society on Facebook or call 541-500-8881.

Thursday, Dec. 16 Paul Turnipseed: Guitarist Paul Turnipseed will perform a mix of New Orleans and Latin rhythms, along with jazz and blues standards at 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 16, at DANCIN Vineyards, 4477 S. Stage Road, Medford. Admission is free. Call 541-245-1133 or dancin.com.

Dayton Mason: Gypsy jazz singer, songwriter and guitarist Dayton Mason will perform at 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 16, at Belle Fiore Winery, 100 Belle Fiore Lane, Ashland. Admission is free.

See bellefiorewine.com or call 541-552-4900.

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HOLIDAY From Page A11

Grants Pass Tree Lighting: The city of Grants Pass will host their annual tree lighting celebration at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3 at the Holiday Plaza, Fifth and G streets. Santa Claus will be on hand to greet children from the North Pole via Zoom.

Medford Winter Lights Festival: The annual lighting of the community Christmas tree will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, in downtown Medford’s Pear Blossom Park. The annual event will include a coloring contest for kids in the Lithia Lobby, photos with Santa, live performances, a candy cane hunt, booths, activities and a fireworks show. A free candy cane hunt will begin at 4:30 p.m. for children ages 1-12.

Central Point Community Christmas: Central Point’s annual Christmas parade will step off at

5:15 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, and head down Pine Street followed by a 6 p.m. tree lighting behind City Hall and the Central Point library.

The city of Central Point will host Santa’s Village with free crafts, hot cocoa, visits with Santa, and other fun activities for the whole family.

For more information, see centralpointchamber.org/ community-christmas.

Light Up Gold Hill: Santa will light up the trees at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, at the Gold Hill City Park, located next to the Gold Hill Library, 202 Dardanelles St. The following Saturday, Dec. 11, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. there will be a “Christmas Sing-Along” with live music also in the Gold Hill City Park. Bring your flashlights, chairs, and blankets. Free refreshments will be served.

After the sing-along, take a stroll to see the lights and festive decorations throughout the city.

For further information, call 541-855-1525.

‘With Every Christmas Card I Write’: The Gold Hill IOOF Lodge will present a single performance of “With Every Christmas Card I Write” featuring Lauren James, at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4. at the IOOF Lodge, 483 Fourth Ave., Gold Hill. This heart-warming musical revue, featuring beloved Christmas songs, highlights the magic of the holiday season through music and a multimedia presentation. The story unfolds as something of a mystery as an unusual Christmas card

MT FILE PHOTO

Providence Festival of Trees This year’s festivities will be held virtually to keep everyone in our community safe, organizers said.

Smaller than 2020’s event, this year’s display of seven large trees, nine tabletop trees, a toy sleigh and kids’ playhouse will not be available for public viewing but rather auctioned online through Dec. 4. A holiday special at 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, on local ABC affiliate KDRV (channel 12), will show viewers the trees and speak to the importance of caregiver education, which is this year’s charitable cause.

Over the past 29 years, Providence Festival of Trees has raised more than $11 million to benefit the programs and services of Providence Medford Medical Center. For more information, to register for the silent online auction or make a donation see https://providencefoundations.org/events/safeway-providence-festival-of-trees-southern-oregon/ or call 541-732-5193. inspires Lauren to discover its meaning by searching through cards from her past. Beginning at 6:20 p.m. guests will be treated to a Christmas trivia pre-show, music, raffle, games, and an “ugly holiday sweater” contest. Special face-in-a-hole photo props will allow guests to capture their images next to iconic Christmas characters.

Free coffee and popcorn will be served, other refreshments are available for purchase.

Admission is free. Masks and social distancing are required.

For more information see waitingstar.com or email at waitingstar@charter.net.

Rogue Valley Chorale: The Rogue Valley Chorale, in concert with the Jefferson Baroque Orchestra, will present two performances of the Christmas movement of George Frideric Handel’s “Messiah” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, and 3 and 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5, at the Craterian Theater, 23 S. Central Ave., Medford. JBO, under the direction of Morgan O’Shaughnessy, will play 18th century period instruments or modern copies. Featured soloists include Jennifer Matsuura, soprano; Shelly Cox-Thornhill, mezzo-soprano; Colin Campbell, tenor; and Jose Rubio, bass, in a new production that tells

the timeless story of Christ through the eyes of prophets, shepherds, and heavenly hosts.

Tickets are $25, $10 for ages 22 and younger, and can be purchased at craterian.org, at the box office, 16 S. Bartlett St., in Medford, or by calling 541-779-3000. Before admission, audience members must present a photo ID and proof of full vaccination completed at least 14 days because performance date; those not fully vaccinated or children under the age of 12 must present a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of the performance time, or a negative rapid antigen test

Thursday, December 2, 2021 |

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taken within 6 hours. Masks must be worn at all times while inside the Craterian.

SOU Choir: The Southern Oregon University Chamber Choir, directed by Paul French, will present “Tomorrow Shall be my Dancing Day,” a seasonal concert of holiday cheer, at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5, at the Music Recital Hall, 450 S. Mountain Ave., on the Southern Oregon University campus in Ashland.

The festive program features carols from around the world including works from Puerto Rico, England, Spain, Norway and Canada. Featured composers include Ola Gjeilo, Javier Busto, Sarah Quartel, and John Rutter while the varied music moves from Latin motets, through folk-based carols, to a driving gospel “Magnificat”

by Patti Drennan. The choir will be accompanied by SOU staff accompanist, Jodi French.

Tickets are $10, $5 for seniors and free for full-time students with ID, faculty and staff. A livestream of the performance will be available to watch for free on the Oregon Center for the Arts YouTube channel. Attendees must present an ID along with proof of full vaccination or proof of a negative PCR test or a negative rapid antigen test within 48 hours of the show, and masks must be worn while on campus.

For tickets and further information, see oca.sou.edu or call the Box Office at 541-552-6348.

Ashland Hanukkah Celebration: Chabad Jewish Center of Southern Oregon held a Hanukkah celebration on Nov. 28, at the Plaza in downtown Ashland, lighting the 10 foot Menorah.

The menorah will be on display for the duration of the Chanukah holiday. On the final night of Hanukkah at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5, the lighting will again take place to illiminate all eight branches of the menorah. Call 541-482-2778.

Jake Shimabukuro: Ukulele master Jake Shimabukuro, with bassist Jackson Waldoff, and special guests Thunderstorm Artis on vocals (a finalist on “The Voice”) and Taku Hirano on percussion, will perform a holiday concert, “Christmas in Hawaii” at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 6, at the Craterian Theater, 23 S. Central Ave., Medford. Shimabukuro will play popular holiday songs with Hawaiian stylings and selections from a repertoire of his SEE HOLIDAY, A22

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HOLIDAY From Page A21

hits, along with songs from his new album, “Jake and Friends,” released in November. Tickets are $39, $42 or $45; $28, $31 or $34 for ages 22 and younger, and can be purchased at craterian. org, at the box office, 16 S. Bartlett St., in Medford, or by calling 541-779-3000. Before admission, audience members must present a photo ID and proof of full vaccination completed at least 14 days before performance date; those not fully vaccinated or children under the age of 12 must present a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of the performance time, or a negative rapid antigen test taken within 6 hours. Masks must be worn at all times while inside the Craterian.

Ashland Festival of Light: The Ashland Chamber of Commerce launched its annual Festival of Light celebration Thursday, Nov. 18. The chamber has planned several activities, including prizes for shoppers, children’s scavenger hunt and a soundwalk. The Winter Soundwalk, a curated audio track featuring music from cultures around the world, will guide listeners through the festive downtown Ashland cityscape along a set path of visual installations from Nov. 26 to Jan 6. The map for the soundwalk, with each installation point marked, is available for download and printing, and viewing online. Participation is free. For further information, including the soundwalk map and audio streaming or download instructions see rogueworldmusic.org/soundwalk. For details about other chamber activities, see ashlandchamber.com.

Siskiyou Singers: The Siskiyou Singers will present a free online holiday concert, “The Most Wonderful Time,” premiering Saturday, Dec. 10, on the choir’s website, siskiyousingers.org.

The concert can be viewed at any time after the premiere date. The program will include a collection of pieces in a wide range of styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary and from spirituals to jazz. The choir will present a version of ‘Silent Night,’” by Mark Hayes; John Rutter’s arrangement of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas;” the German carol “When Mary Walked Through Woods

of Thorn;” “Lullay My Liking,” based on a 15th century Middle English lyric poem and composed by Gustav Holst; “Here’s a Pretty Little Baby,” an energetic Christmas spiritual; “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” a jazz waltz arrangement of the holiday standard; and a jazz interpretation of the classic “Winter Wonderland.”

Studio Roxander’s ‘The Nutcracker Ballet’: Studio Roxander returns to the stage with a newly renovated version of their annual full-length production of “The Nutcracker.” Guest artists from Philadelphia Ballet include Zecheng Liang and Thays Goltz (Dec. 10-12) and Ashton Roxander and Sydney Dolan (Dec. 17-19).

Productions are scheduled for 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 10-19, at the Crater Performing Arts Center, 655 N. Third St., Central Point. Tickets are $12-$28. For details and tickets , see studioroxander.com or call 541-773-7272.

Gingerbread Wonderland: Teens ages 13 and older go beyond the basic gingerbread house and create their own gingerbread world from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, at the Medford library, 205 S. Central Ave. Prizes will be awarded for creativity, design, and execution. For further details see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541-774-8679.

The Hamazons ‘A Holiday Classic’: The Hamazons will spontaneously perform an unscripted tale inspired by such films as “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “Miracle on 34th Street” and “A Christmas Carol,” taking the audience on an impromptu sleigh ride of humor and hilarity as they whip up some winter magic. Each performance a unique experience, nothing is prepared, everything is created in the moment. Performances are scheduled for 2 and 8 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 11, and 3 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 12, at Bellview Grange, 1050 Tolman Creek Road, Ashland. Advance tickets are $15 and are available online at hamazons.com. Masks are required and seats will be assigned — parties will be seated together. Doors open 15 minutes before performances.

You must hold an advance ticket to attend the show. For details, see https://hamazons.com.

SEE HOLIDAY, A23

Lights for Life Ashland Community Hospital Foundation’s

Shine a Light for Someone Special

You are invited to participate in Lights for Life, our annual celebration of life, by making a gift in honor or in memory of someone special.

Your donation will be symbolized by lights on two trees located in Ashland and Talent.

Gifts to Lights for Life stay local and support healthcare in your community.

For more information or to make a donation, please visit achfoundation.org or call 541-482-0367.

Choose from: Green Light ($25) Blue Light ($50) Red Light ($100) White Light ($250) A Star ($500) An Angel ($1,000) Or Another Amount of Your Choice

123 Clear Creek Drive Suite 101 Ashland, OR 97520 achfoundation.org

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Thursday, December 2, 2021 |

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HOLIDAY From Page A22

Christmas Sing-Along: The City of Gold Hill will offer a “Christmas Sing-Along” with live music from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, at the Gold Hill City Park, located next to the Gold Hill Library, 202 Dardanelles St. Bring your flashlights, chairs, and blankets. Free refreshments will be served. After the sing-along, take a stroll to see the lights and festive decorations throughout the city. For further information call 541-855-1525.

Stillpoint Ballet Company ‘The Nutcracker’: The Stillpoint Ballet Company will present the 30th annual performance of “The Nutcracker Ballet” at the Grants Pass Performing Arts Center, on the campus of Grants Pass High School, 830 N.E. Ninth St., Grants Pass. Performances are scheduled for 7: 30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 11-19, and at 2 p.m. Saturday and Sundays, Dec. 12-18 and Dec. 19.

As a gift to the community, tickets are $10 for opening night. Regular tickets for Section A are $15; Section B tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for youth ages 3 to 17, and for seniors 62 and older. Masks are required while in the venue. For further information, see gpnutcracker.org or call 541-476-4641.

Rogue Valley Symphonic Band: The Rogue Valley Symphonic Band will present a holiday concert, “Sounds of the Season,” featuring holiday music from around the world at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 12, at the Music Recital Hall, 450 S. Mountain Ave., on the Southern Oregon University campus in Ashland. Tickets are $15, $5 for children and students. Tickets are available at Paddington Station, 125 E. Main St., in Ashland or online at roguevalleysymphonicband.org. Masks and proof of vaccination are required.

Southern Oregon Repertory Singers: Southern Oregon Repertory Singers’ return to live performance will be “The Waiting Sky,” a program of seasonal holiday music at 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 18, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 19, at the Music Recital Hall, 450 S. Mountain Ave., on the Southern Oregon University campus in Ashland. The program will include music from the Renaissance to the present by well-known and emerging composers, including ‘Ave Maria’ by Polish composer Pawel Lukaszewski; “The Christ Child’s Lullaby,” by Gwyneth Walker; “Winter,” a piece which includes visual projections, by Alvin Trotman; “Romance of the Angels,” arranged

by Howard Goodall, and “My Lord Has Come,” a carol by Will Todd. Also on the program is a variety of seasonal songs from around the world, both ancient and modern; traditional secular carols such as “Wassail Carol,” “Jingle Bells,” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”; and a commissioned setting of the Scottish favorite, “Auld Lang Syne,” by SORS accompanist and resident composer Jodi

PHOTO COURTESY STUDIO ROXANDER

A scene from “The Nutcracker.” See Studio Roxander listing, Page 22.

French. Tickets are $25. A livestream option is available for $10. All patrons must be vaccinated against COVID-19 and show proof of COVID-19 vaccination and a photo ID at the door; masks must be worn. Unvaccinated persons will not be admitted, including children. For tickets and information, see repsingers.org or call 541-552-0900.

‘A Celtic Christmas’: Storyteller Tomaseen Foley and his troupe of professional musicians and dancers will present “A Celtic Christmas,” an evening of Celtic music, traditional Christmas carols, Irish dancing and stories from the west of Ireland at 3 and 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 19, at the Craterian Theater, 23 S. Central Ave.,

Medford. Tickets are $32, $35 or $38; $22, $25 or $28 for ages 22 and younger, and can be purchased at craterian.org, at the box office, 16 S. Bartlett St., in Medford, or by calling 541-779-3000. Prior to admission, audience members must present a photo ID and proof of full vaccination completed at least 14 days prior to performance date; those not fully vaccinated or children under the age of 12 must present a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of the performance time, or a negative rapid antigen test taken within 6 hours. Masks must be worn at all times while inside the Craterian.

Ugly Sweater Contest & Holiday Party: Teens 13 and older can join in a wacky ugly holiday

sweater contest and virtual party at 4:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 20. A week before the program starts, pick up a kit with some holiday treats, a sweater, some decorations, and one special object that no one else has that you’ll need to incorporate with your sweater decorations. You’ll have from the time you pick up your kit to the time of the Zoom party to decorate. Then show off your sweaters at the holiday party on Zoom. The teen who uses their decorations most creatively, as decided by a vote, will win a gift card. For further details or to register, see jcls.org and click on Programs & Events and then JCLS Calendar or call 541774-8679. Meeting details will be emailed to you when you register.

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| Thursday, December 2, 2021

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Thursday, December 2, 2021 |

Staffing issues halt Talent patrol service

By Allayana Darrow ACC

Staffing shortages have forced the Ashland Police Department to pause an intergovernmental agreement with Talent to provide public safety coverage, according to Ashland police Chief Tighe O’Meara.

“The staffing situation at the police department remains critical,” he said during a recent Ashland City Council meeting Tuesday.

Compared to the 16 patrol officers typically divided across four shifts, APD is working with 11, with the likelihood of dropping to 10 soon, O’Meara said.

The department still accomplishes 24/7 patrol coverage with overtime and “burning officers out,” he said.

“We have some good candidates to bring on in a lateral capacity,” O’Meara said. “We might be able to shore up the numbers, right now we’re going to limp along as we can.”

As a result, APD has pulled back from an intergovernmental agreement with the city of Talent to provide 12 hours per day of police coverage — approved unanimously by the City Council in May as a “short- to medium-range partnership solution” which, in part, responded to staffing shortages the Talent police department experienced in 2020.

Ashland police coverage in Talent ceased Nov. 14, but Talent law enforcement will continue to have access to APD detectives, on-duty supervisors and training for a smaller fee than the original IGA sum of $375,000 per year, O’Meara said. The suspension of services — by mutual consent — does not violate any terms of the agreement, he said.

The cities of Ashland and Talent continue plans to co-fund a feasibility study to explore consolidating the two departments, O’Meara said.

Talent city leadership showed interest in identifying alternatives for law enforcement services in both communities through partnership, according to interim City Manager Gary Milliman.

“It is not a localized thing, it

is everywhere in the country facing shortages of people that want to be police officers, and they’re seeing veteran police officers that are walking away,” O’Meara said.

“We’ve got veteran officers that are leaving APD, and we’re lucky when we get those good quality lateral (hires).”

Amid a contentious nationwide conversation about “how to police ourselves,” APD is also inextricably linked to local fiscal issues, namely general fund vulnerability and recalibration of service levels, said Councilor Tonya Graham.

Fire and rescue, police and finance top the list for expenditures by department from the general fund, according to the adopted biennial budget. The APD budget totals nearly $8 million, 95% of which is dedicated to fixed contracts, personnel and central services. The remaining discretionary sum funds supplies.

With an authorized increase to 32 sworn officers prior to the pandemic, in September O’Meara said he intended to schedule one supervisor and three patrol officers on duty at all times, allowing the department to handle two critical incidents in progress at once without requiring assistance from another agency. The department returned to a 28-officer cap due to pandemic-induced financial constraints.

O’Meara said in the current staff environment, officers are “decreasingly in a position to do proactive policing” and actively build relationships.

“For a city our size, with our tourism, with our university that’s bigger than it was 25 years ago, that wants to engage in professional, progressive policing, I am still of the opinion that our police staffing should be at about 32 if not a little bit more,” O’Meara said.

For now, the department struggles to fill the authorized 28 positions — short by about five staff members.

The conversation about allocating funding for additional staff is a few bienniums away, he said.

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| Thursday, December 2, 2021

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ALEX SCHWARTZ / HERALD & NEWS

Jordan Cove in Coos Bay would be the site of the Jordan Cove LNG export terminal. A 229-mile pipeline would connect it with a compression station in Malin.

FERC revisits approval of Jordan Cove project

By Alex Schwartz Klamath Falls Herald & News

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission voted recently to evaluate whether to revoke federal approval of the Jordan Cove Energy Project. The decision comes after months of setbacks to the natural gas project dealt by state permitting agencies.

Jordan Cove is a proposed liquid natural gas export facility in Coos Bay accompanying the Pacific Connector pipeline, which would connect the terminal over 229 miles across the Cascades and Coast Range to a station near Malin.

The project has drawn staunch opposition from landowners in Klamath, Jackson, Douglas and Coos counties, whose private property is in the pipeline’s path, along with environmental groups and local

tribes, including the Klamath Tribes.

Pembina, the Canadian energy company behind the project, received federal approval to construct and operate the terminal and pipeline from FERC under Section 7 of the Natural Gas Act in March 2020. But it can’t begin construction until it receives environmental permits required under state and local laws.

The following year saw numerous challenges to Jordan Cove’s permit applications, many of which were denied, reversed or have since expired.

Notably, Pembina still lacks Oregon’s approval under the Clean Water Act and the Coastal Zone Management Act, both of which have been upheld by federal agencies.

This May, Pembina announced that it had paused development of the Jordan Cove

project in light of the permit denials. In addition, a coalition of affected landowners, tribes and environmental organizations challenged FERC’s approval of the project in the D.C. Circuit Court, arguing that the agency did not adequately consider impacts to private property rights, tribal resources and the environment.

Earlier this month, the court found that “circumstances have changed substantially” since the project first received federal approval, creating grounds for the commission to reexamine the authorization.

During FERC’s November meeting, Chairman Richard Glick shared the court’s sentiments.

“This case is yet another example, in my opinion, where the commission made numerous mistakes in the underlying proceedings

granting the certificate and approving the LNG facility.

These mistakes were well-addressed during the recent oral arguments, and I say we need to do a better job — and we will.”

As ordered by the court, FERC now has until the end of January to revisit Jordan Cove’s approval. It has requested that Pembina confirm whether it plans to move forward with Jordan Cove and, if so, why the commission should not suspend the approval.

Even though federal approval doesn’t automatically grant Pembina the ability to begin construction without state and local permits, Section 7 of the Natural Gas Act still allows approved energy projects to claim eminent domain on private lands necessary for construction. Landowners along the Pacific Connector

pipeline route have been dealing with Pembina land agents for years and fear that the corporation could seize their land even if they don’t have full authorization to begin constructing the pipeline.

If FERC stays Jordan Cove’s Section 7 NGA approval, it could render Pembina unable to seize private land for its project.

“South Coast and Southern Oregon communities have been clearly saying that this proposed gas pipeline and export terminal is not in the public interest,” said Deb Evans, who owns land in Klamath County traversed by the proposed pipeline route. “It is past time for this proposal to be canceled for good so that our communities and impacted landowners can move on without the looming threat of eminent domain.”

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Thursday, December 2, 2021 |

PREP WATER POLO

for OLLI Winter Clas w o N l l ses Enro ith Others — O deas w I e r a Sh

LLI 2U at SOU

ASHLANDWATERPOLO.ORG

Ashland girls take state title Grizzlies beat top-seeded Hood River Valley in high school club sports championship

By Danny Penza ACC

The Ashland High girls water polo team captured the title at a Class 5A club sports state championship tournament in Corvallis, beating top-seeded Hood River Valley 10-8.

To reach the championship, No. 2 seed Ashland beat West Albany 7-6.

“The two teams we played (over the weekend) have probably in recent history the richest history. They make up most of the recent state champions in the last seven or eight years,” Ashland head coach Andy Gramley said. “I think that was one thing that the girls should be really proud of.”

In the championship match, the Grizzlies got three goals, two assists and 12 steals from senior Mary Downs. Ashland junior attacker Tate Oliva scored a pair of goals and assisted on three others, while Riley Ledbetter had two goals and two steals.

In the semifinal win over West Albany, Oliva had three goals and sophomore attacker Kena Robertshaw had two goals.

“For our team, the balance of our team and, certainly our starting unit and the first few off the bench, there’s an ability to rely on each other for

different things based on the need,” Gramley said. “They really leaned on each other in those two games.”

Ashland senior goalie Gillian Powell was named tournament MVP. Powell finished with seven saves against West Albany and 10 more in the title-clinching win over Hood River Valley. Robertshaw had a strong game defensively in the finale while being matched up with Hood River Valley’s top player.

The following Ashland players were first-team all-tournament selections: Powell, Oliva, Downs, Robertshaw. Senior Anna Sloan was a second team honoree.

The Ashland boys water polo team finished in fourth place at its respective club state tournament after falling to Hillsboro 23-11 in the third-place game.

Seniors Bodhi Johnson and Oliver Lynch were first-team all-tournament picks, while seniors Alder Collins, Logan Barber and goalie Sam Stiles were all second team honorees.

Water polo is not a sanctioned sport in Oregon by the Oregon School Activities Association, so players compete under a club sports umbrella that typically requires handling costs and fundraising for travel and competitions.

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Community Center roof repair is needed to reopen

By Allayana Darrow ACC

Despite hopes that securing recommendations from an ad-hoc committee of industry professionals would accelerate reopening of the Ashland Community Center on Winburn Way, the building is several months from safe occupancy, according to city officials.

Public Works Director Scott Fleury said the Ashland building official took into account two separate engineering reports detailing structural deficiencies in the Community Center roof, specifically for snow load bearing capacity and “potential deformations of the structure over time,” and determined that for safety, repairs must be made prior to building occupancy.

According to a structural report

by Marquess & Associates Inc. — the engineering firm initially selected for the rehabilitation project — the Community Center roof sags, the north exterior wall slants and the floor is not level.

At the Pioneer Log Cabin next door, the roof sags, the historic stone chimney is hazardous without reinforcement and floor beams need strengthening, but “treated logs below grade are in good condition.”

An assessment by Snyder Engineering dated Aug. 10 provides analysis and repair recommendations on six major issues with the Community Center building: north wall and foundation asymmetry, sagging roof and ceiling over the Main Hall, improperly supported and “over-spanned” roof framing, exterior wall sheathing and gaps between support posts and footings.

After electing not to approve a contract with Marquess, the City Council at its May 18 meeting appointed a citizen group to “review, analyze and make recommendations” for economical options to repair and reopen Pioneer Hall and the Community Center.

By a tiebreaking vote, a motion passed Ashland City Council Sept. 21 to open both buildings at the earliest possible date and issue a request for proposals via the Public Works Department for recommended actions outlined in the ad-hoc committee’s final report, which included

ACC FILE PHOTO

According to a structural report, the Ashland Community Center roof sags, the north exterior wall slants and the floor is not level.

installation of a “moment frame” — a drywall-wrapped steel frame inside the Community Center auditorium with columns connected to new footings at grade that support existing roof trusses.

According to City Attorney Katrina Brown, the city’s possession of engineering reports defining potential dangers could increase overall project liability.

One engineer’s assessment indicated the building could collapse entirely; another engineer said the ceiling poses significant risk, she said.

“We actually have written documents talking about the structural deficiencies at the Community Center, and so, of course, now the risk to the city, if it were to open those buildings without addressing those structural deficiencies, is greatly enhanced,” Brown said. “I am not advising that the Community Center be opened until the roof is addressed.”

During the Nov. 16 City Council meeting, Fleury said two processes associated with the Community Center rehabilitation project are underway: one focused on constructing a retaining wall and the other on roof modifications necessary for safe occupancy — the latter being the primary structural issue identified in both engineering reports.

According to the ad-hoc committee’s report, banked vegetative debris against the wood foundation traps moisture, provides access for vermin and represents a significant fire hazard

— all worsened by unauthorized access to the rear building areas.

Historic preservation consultant and ad-hoc committee member George Kramer previously said the banked debris presented the “single most dangerous condition” at both sites.

Fleury said Monday that the city’s planning department confirmed the property — with a “severe” slope exceeding 35% — is subject to a physical constraints review permit, which is required for activities on hillside land such as “grading, filling, stripping or cutting involving more than 20 cubic yards on any lot.”

Necessary tree removal also falls under the conditions of the code’s physical and environmental constraints overlay.

“For development other than single-family homes on individual lots, all grading, drainage improvements, or other land disturbances shall only occur from May 1 to Oct. 31,” according to the code. “Excavation shall not occur during the remaining wet months of the year.”

Fleury, citing a recent conference with the Planning Department, said the physical constraints permit requires a grading plan detailing on-site excavation activities, a storm drainage plan demonstrating appropriate runoff management and erosion minimization, an inventory and evaluation of each tree and a geotechnical report confirming site conditions are suitable for proposed construction activities.

“We have had a bunch of the

material buildup from the slope against the back of the building removed as of last week as well, and plan to have the geotechnical engineer back on site after the holiday to review the slope stability and recommend options moving forward with respect to a retaining wall or to leave as is and perform periodic maintenance if any erosion occurs,” Fleury said in an email Monday.

Fleury said he released a request for proposals Nov. 2 for the roof portion of the project.

The RFP will close Dec. 7 and contract approval is slated to come back in front of the council in late January or early February.

A construction timeline cannot be determined until the four- to sixmonth design phase is complete, he said.

The chosen firm will evaluate both Marquess’ recommendation to replace the roof and trusses entirely and the recommendation from the ad-hoc committee to install the internal moment frame, and may submit its own alternative, he said.

Interim City Manager Gary Milliman said Pioneer Hall could be occupied sooner than its neighboring building.

“We believe that Pioneer Hall could be reopened safely and could be occupied while the repairs needed for that structure could go forward,” Milliman said.

Fleury said the Parks and Recreation Department determines based on COVID-19 restrictions when the Pioneer log cabin can be open.

Engineering will take a few

months after awarding a contract in early 2022 and minor structural repairs based on the ad-hoc committee’s recommendations should not significantly impact rental use of the facility, he said.

Among needed fixes — shifting logs around a window cut into the original cabin in the 1980s need reinforcing to prevent further log movement, according to the ad-hoc committee.

Also on the table for council consideration is a proposal from Ashland resident Allan Sandler, who brought forward a development concept for the Community Center that combines offerings in early childhood education, children’s theater production and classes and community events consistent with current facility uses, according to council documents.

Under the proposal, the city would lease the building for 20 years to Sandler’s team, which would repair the Community Center at their expense, including clean up behind the building and installation of a retaining wall, a full upgrade to building code with sprinklers and seismic retrofit and maintenance of historical significance through consultation with the Ashland Historic Commission.

“Upon completion of the upgrade, Mr. Sandler and his team operate the building for the balance of the lease,” according to a preliminary proposal in council documents.

Councilor Paula Hyatt said per her conversation with Sandler, building repairs under his proposal would cost about $750,000.

“In putting forward the funds to repair the building, he would then set the fees for that programming in a way where he could recoup the cost of repairing the building,” said Hyatt, adding that Sandler indicated his goal is to “marry” community needs through a public-private partnership.

“The idea of people having graduation parties, bar mitzvahs, birthdays, wedding ceremonies, being able to do that, to me I’m just a little bit leery of locking us up and outsourcing that decision, if you will, to a party we can’t control,” Councilor Shaun Moran said.

Discussion about the Community Center and Pioneer Hall works is slated to continue at the City Council meeting Dec. 7.

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Thursday, December 2, 2021 |

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AGGING MATTERS

Hospitals to embrace ‘Age-Friendly Health Care System’

By Ellen Waldman for ACC

O

ver the years, I’ve accompanied many clients to medical appointments, the emergency room and visited them in the hospital. One thing that is noticeable is that these systems were not really designed to address the unique needs of many older adults, and especially those with dementia.

Here’s the good news, though. Both Asante and Providence are incorporating something called an “Age-Friendly Health Care System” into their approach to addressing this population.

In Oregon, the over-65 population is expected to double in the next 30 years.

About 23% of Jackson County residents are already over 65, for a total of almost 51,000 people. This will certainly impact the medical services across all areas of care.

To be better prepared, the health care systems are following guidelines called “The Age-Friendly 4-M Framework.” This is a reliable set of evidence-based

MF-00140008

To be better prepared, the health care systems are following guidelines called “The Age-Friendly 4-M Framework.” This is a reliable set of evidence-based interventions for medical providers treating the older population. This is not a specific program, but a shift in the care that this person would receive across all areas of the health system.

The areas being addressed are mobility, mentation, medication and what matters.

Each area has its specific goals and focus. interventions for medical providers treating the older population. This is not a specific program, but a shift in the care that this person would receive across all areas of the health system. The areas being addressed are mobility, mentation, medication and what matters.

Each area has its specific goals and focus.

For medication, it’s to minimize high risk medications in older adults. As the patient, it’s a good idea to make sure each visit to a medical provider includes a current list and a review of your meds. It’s possible that one doctor is not aware of what another one has

prescribed for you. Some medications should not be used with those who have dementia, for example.

For mentation, or thinking activity, the goal is to prevent, identify, treat and manage dementia, depression and delirium across all care settings. It’s also very important that the family and care providers, as well as their doctors, know how to best communicate with someone who has this diagnosis. Training for families is easily accessed through the Alzheimer Association’s website (alz.org).

Mobility goals are designed to ensure older adults can maintain function and

move about with ease and safety every day. Clearly, this includes fall-risk management. To address this, it’s suggested to patients to use online exercise programs, if going to a gym is not possible. Also, look into the STEADI program (cdc.gov/steadi/index. html), which is on the CDC website and has two wonderful 2-page brochures to read: “Stay Independent” and “Family and Caregivers: Protect Your Loved One from Falling.”

According to these guidelines, what matters to the person is the fourth factor, and of prime importance as well. This means that each medical provider is encouraged to know and align the medical care with each person’s specific goals and preferences. The areas to consider here are the patient’s thoughts on longevity, cognitive abilities and their sense of independence.

Knowing and understanding these will have a direct influence on which types of treatments the person is willing to pursue. Here’s where it’s important for you as the patient to express your own choices, so that treatment options can be adjusted

to meet your personal goals. What matters to you, matters!

The focus is now on training medical providers to be more in touch with and have a better understanding of their patients’ care needs, based on these four areas. It’s also up to each person to be sure that their medical provider is taking the time to fully grasp what their goals truly are.

This might mean being a bit more outspoken about your choices as you’re aging.

What fit for your care needs up until now might have changed.

It’s also a good idea to take someone along with you to all medical appointments who can take notes and act as your advocate.

This 4-M focus is a positive change to our local health care settings, and we can expect better outcomes for all patients through this approach.

Ellen Waldman is a certified aging life care professional.

Submit questions about aging and Ashland-area aging resources and column suggestions to her through her website, SeniorOptionsAshland.com.

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Thursday, December 2, 2021 |

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LIFELONG LEARNING

Teaching: It’s a two-way street for ASPIRE mentors

By Adrienne Simmons and Gary Anderson for ACC

A

s adults of a certain age, we’ve all read the articles on how to live longer, more fulfilling lives. In addition to the obvious ones relating to health, nearly all researchers agree we should stay active, seek knowledge, maintain social connections and find ways to make a difference in the lives of other people.

For Adrienne Simmons and Gary Anderson, the ASPIRE Mentor Program at Ashland High School meets all these needs.

Simmons retired from a career in health care administration and moved to Ashland seven years ago, and Anderson retired from a career as a magazine editor, and moved here three years ago. Here both worked to find new activities and build new social connections, becoming involved in the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Southern Oregon University.

But there was still something missing. No longer employed, they found they missed contact with younger generations.

New friends here introduced them to the ASPIRE Mentoring Program at Ashland High School, under the direction of Jen Marsden, the AHS College & Career Specialist. ASPIRE is an Oregon-wide program that matches volunteers with high school juniors and seniors to mentor the students in developing a plan for education and training beyond high school that will help them achieve their career and life goals.

For Simmons and Anderson, ASPIRE ticked all the boxes.

From the students they were paired with, they found themselves learning about what it’s like to be on the beginning edge of career and life. They also made social connections they would not otherwise have made, with students and faculty and with other mentors.

Above all, both found satisfaction in believing they might be making a positive difference in a young person’s life.

COURTESY PHOTO

Gary Anderson, left, Jen Marsden, center, and Adrienne Simmons share stories and updates about the AHS students in the Aspire Program.

Based on her experiences in ASPIRE, Simmons notes, “While Ashland has a wellfunded school district, a third of the Ashland High students qualify for the federal free and reduced lunch program (the standard criterion for various forms of financial assistance).”

Responding to Simmons’ request, Marsden matched her with students who could benefit from the assistance of an adult to help guide them not only with education choices, but also in taking advantage of available assistance programs from federal funding, state programs, colleges, local scholarships and the ASPIRE Fast Forward Fund.

“It takes a village to raise a child,” says Simmons, noting that service clubs in Ashland, including Rotary, the Elks, AAUW, PEO ... have helped make college and vocational schools possible for many AHS students. In her seven years in ASPIRE, Simmons has mentored students who are recent

immigrants to the U.S., the first in their family to go to college, members of the LGBTQ+ community and homeless students who are also served by the Maslow Project.

One of her recent mentees was selected as a Ford Scholar, qualifying the student for one of the prestigious awards that cover tuition and expenses of Oregon and Northern California students who otherwise would struggle to pay the increasing costs of a college degree.

Based in part on his own experiences, Anderson has elected to work with students who may not be challenged by the standard high school curriculum. His goal is to encourage them to achieve their potential by defining educational programs that uniquely suit their personal goals and abilities. Though he has worked with only a few students in the three years he’s been involved with the program, he is proud of the

educational opportunities and recognition they have earned for themselves.

For both Simmons and Anderson, their involvement starts by understanding their students’ own potential, including personal circumstances as well as career interests and life goals. Both agree that an ASPIRE mentor — as neither a teacher nor a parent — fills a particular role for the students, giving them outside affirmation in their decisions and accomplishments. Simmons mentions that she continues to keep in touch with some of her students after high school graduation, and Anderson is following her example with his mentees.

“Being an ASPIRE mentor is one of the most meaningful and rewarding volunteering I’ve done,” Simmons says.

“I find it’s definitely a twoway street. While I can help students with the college applications and scholarship

process, they are also mentors to me concerning the joys and challenges of their generation.”

Anderson agrees. “With every conversation with a student, I learn as much about contemporary life as I try to convey from my own experience.”

For more information about the Oregon ASPIRE Program, visit aspireoregon.org/home.

To learn more about becoming an ASPIRE mentor at Ashland High School, email jennifer. marsden@ashland.k12.or.us.

Adrienne Simmons spent her career with Providence in Oregon working in health care administration. In addition to being an ASPIRE mentor, she is a member of AAUW and OLLI. Living in Mountain Meadows, Gary Anderson is an OLLI instructor, former consultant with Stanford Research Institute, and former editorin-chief for several automotive magazines.

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