your local, non-profit, independent newspaper...everyone wants to play e.t. on atari 2600.” but,...

Volume 6, Issue 7 // April 25 - May 8, 2019YOUR LOCAL, NON-PROFIT, INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER

APRIL 25 - MAY 8, 2019 / THE ROGUE VALLEY MESSENGER / 3 2 / WWW.ROGUEVALLEYMESSENGER.COM

CONTENTS

page

22

page

5page

16FEATURE

For this year’s Medford Comic Con, organizers figure it was time for a

logo—and what better place to turn than their

fans! A logo competition turned up local artist Junie Maupin, and our writer has

her origin story.

SOUNDOver the past decade,

radio stations have consolidated so that 90

percent are owned by only four companies. But community-radio station

KSKQ is locally-grown, and as varied as the place

it comes from.

DON’T SMOKE

Our weed reporter went to the Champs expo in

Las Vegas this year. What used to be a glass and accessories show, this

year transformed largely into a hemp-CBD product

showcase, an industry that has doubled in size over

the last year.

page

18CULTURE

It seems that Director, Bill Rauch, has done it again with a smart adaptation

and apropos selection in Cambodian Rock Band.

Inspired by an actual compilation CD consisting

of 22 songs from the late 60’s and early 70’s, a surreal story about a tortured soul

in a troubled country.

SALES DEADLINE: 5 pm ThursEDITORIAL DEADLINE: 5 pm ThursCALENDAR DEADLINE: 12 pm ThursCLASSIFIED DEADLINE: 4 pm ThursDeadlines may shift for special/holiday issues.

PUBLISHER & EDITOR Phil Busse

MANAGING EDITOR Sara Jane Wiltermood

PRODUCTION MANAGER Donna Brosh

CALENDAR EDITOR Jordan Marie McCaw

COLUMNISTS Rob Brezsny, Dr. Dan Smith, Dr. Cory Tichauer, Dr. Margaret Philhower and Tanya Shelander

FREELANCERS Catherine Kelley, Heather Metz, Nick Blakeslee, Vanessa Newman and Josh Stirm

THE BUSINESS END OF THINGS

WEB MASTER Tammy Wilder

OUR FINANCIAL WIZARD Sara Louton, Advanced Books

DISTRIBUTION Coleman Antonucci

ADVERTISING MANAGER Sasha Armstrong

OUR WORDSMITHS, ETC.

The Rogue Valley MessengerPO Box 8069 | Medford, OR 97501541-708-5688roguevalleymessenger.cominfo@roguevalleymessenger.com

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ABOUT THE COVER:If creating superheroes is a superpower, local artist and Medford Comic Con logo

contest award winner Junie Maupin has got what it takes to save the Rogue

Valley—and beyond!

Feature #1 ..................................................................... 5Feature #2 ..................................................................... 7Our Picks ........................................................................ 9Live Music and Nightlife ........................................10Events ...........................................................................11Sound ...........................................................................16Screen ...........................................................................17Culture ..........................................................................18

Food & Drink ..............................................................19Art Watch.....................................................................20Wellness .......................................................................20 Sports & Outdoor .....................................................21Don’t Smoke the Messenger ...............................22Free Will Astrology ...................................................22Rec Room ....................................................................23


FEATURE

Smashing through walls and seeking justice, local artist Junie Maupin has created the new face of the Medford Comic Con, hitting the Medford Library April 27 and 28. “There were some great and interesting submissions for the Logo Contest, but ultimately, it was a unanimous decision by our committee; there were no runner ups,” says Terra McLeod, Medford Library Branch Manager and co-organizer of the event. “This was the first logo contest, with the intention of keeping it as the first permanent logo for MCC.”Maupin illustrates the powerful dynamic of how to marry business sense with creative fulfillment. After studying Web Design for Marketing at Klamath Community College, she got a Bachelor’s degree in Emerging Media & Digital Art from SOU, minoring in Business Administration. Her inspiration towards art as a career started at home. “I’ve always had the support of my family with my art, so obviously that’s a big inspiration there, my older brother drew a lot, then my dad was an artist and my grandma paints,” says Maupin. When combined with her family’s support and her strategic educational choices, Maupin set herself up well as both an artisan and a businesswoman and has proven so with her victory here at the Medford Comic Con, and she also recently won the logo contest for the City of Ashland’s Fourth of July Festival. “I was always drawn to female characters,” says Maupin. “Well, usually I draw a lot of women to begin with. I like drawing superhero figures or that kind of thing. I looked at other Comic

Con convention logos. That definitely helped design the character that we see today. I did a couple thumbnails, sketched out a few ideas that I was thinking of. Then I scanned my drawings into the computer. I did all the line work and base coloring in Adobe Illustrator. I learned how to do that at Klamath Community College and I also learned the more advanced techniques at SOU when I did my degree in Emerging Media and Digital Art.” Maupin wins a Central Art Supply $100 gift card, integrated publicity with Comic Con and a free table to the next five MCC’s. So what now? “A graphic memoir specific to kind of growing up,” she says. “I think it’d be kind of cool to do. I’ve seen other artists do this too

that I’ve drawn inspiration from. They’ve done that kind of graphic memoir thing and I think I want to pursue that. Linda Berry, she makes these really interesting comics about her life. They’re in book forms, not small issues or anything like that. Craig Thomson, he’s another one that did a graphic memoir about growing up.” Like so many artists, Junie supports herself with non-artistic work and currently works as a Deli Supervisor at the local Grocery Outlet. “I’m still going to be here in the Rogue Valley,” she says. “I like it here. I moved here from Klamath Falls. I would love to actually work at a place that does graphic design full time. I’d still want to do my little art business thing on the side. I do speed sketches on my YouTube channel. I try to

make videos fairly frequently,” says Maupin. When it comes to social media, she gives this sage advice, “You know, just get yourself out there. It’s not going to happen instantly, the likes or the followers or interactions. Just do it anyway you know because it’s free, it doesn’t cost anything to post something. Just do it and don’t get caught up in like how many followers or likes you have. Because I used to do that and it was a big problem for me when I was starting to draw digitally and everything. It really got to me and then I realized I had to step back from that and kind of reexamine things,” she says.

MEDFORD COMIC CONSaturday, April 27 and Sunday, April 28Medford Library, 205 S. Central Avenue,

Medford.

JUNIE MAUPINCREDIT: NOAH LEE MARGETTS

An Artistic Superheroine A Profile of Medford Comic Con’s Logo Contest Winner, Junie MaupinBY NOAH LEE MARGETTS

An Artistic Superheroine


SORG VIDEO GAME TIME VORTEX 11 am – 4 pm, Saturday, April 27 and

Sunday, April 28Rogue Community College, HEC Building, Room 112, 101 S. Bartlett Street, Medford

FEATURE

Boop…Wokka-Wokka…Doodly-do-do-do…KA-POW!

As part of the retro game roadshow organized by SORG (Southern Oregon Retro Gamers) at the 2019 MCC, thousands (yes thousands) of archaic arcade games will be available to play on gaming systems from: Konami, Hudson Soft, Bandai, SNK, Tradewest, HAL Laboratory and the iconic Tecmo. Play Pong, Pac-Man, Donkey Kong and so many more at the Medford Comic Con on April 27 and 28. “This year’s MCC theme is Fandoms Unite, so having a video game room was a natural addition to the Con,” says co-organizer and Medford Library Branch Manager, Terra McLeod. “I had been wanting something like this for a couple of years.” But where to get such classic games? Enter Kurt Liedtke of SORG, who has continually donated the use of his personal collection to populate the pop-up gaming suite. “My all-time favorite game is Tecmo Super Bowl, circa 1991,” says Liedtke. “It was the first sports game to track player stats throughout a season and included a customizable playbook with real NFL players. The fact that annual Tecmo Super Bowl tournaments are still held shows just how much of a landmark game it was.” A few years back Liedtke found Klamath County Library’s monthly retro game night. As a new member of the community, he generously offered the use of his personal gaming collection. This soon grew to the current roadshow which has become popular not only on the Comic Con circuit, but Oregon’s Tech Con as well. Liedtke explains, “An enormous subculture surrounding retro gaming has grown over the past decade. I believe that part of the popularity behind retro games is the difficulty factor. Even though controllers had fewer inputs, the games are notoriously so much more difficult than modern games—and that’s by design.” Liedtke also feels the games are sometimes just too involved for that instant gratification itch which requires a simple quick fix that some retro games provide. “Modern games require long tutorials and many hours of investment to complete, but sometimes I just need five minutes of Donkey Kong,” he admits. “Seems developers today want to make every game an epic animated journey, like a Pixar film, but what’s wrong with pressing start and blowing up spaceships for five minutes?” Anything pre-2000 is considered retro by SORG, with games over 10-years-old getting the cool classification on a title-by-title basis. “All gaming systems will be setup chronologically starting from the early 1970s,” Liedtke explains. “Experience first-hand how games have changed over time. We will have systems available to play that go as far back as 1975 (Wonder Wizard Bullseye), and as modern as 2012 (Nintendo Wii-U). Each console will have a minimum of 5-10 different games and we will have every single game ever released for those individual consoles, from iconic classics to obscure rarities.” Keeping all of these consoles operational presents unique challenges to Liedtke’s continued use of the sometimes 40-year old digital dinosaurs. “When dealing with any electronics that are decades old, there are the inevitable gremlins that tend to pop up,” he says. “Thankfully there is somebody in Medford who I take my broken systems to who usually can resurrect whatever is beyond my capabilities to restore.”

One system, the TI-99/4A computer, is so obsolete it actually has a “lego-style” stacking system of add-ons, like an audio tape input or the ever-popular old school “speech synthesis add-on, which provides an added level of fun to games, hearing a very early 1980s synthesized robot voice during gameplay,” says Liedtke. He also recounts how “teenagers for some reason love to play notoriously awful games that have gained a ‘must-play’ reputation. At Tech Con, everyone wants to play E.T. on Atari 2600.” But, he continues, “the younger generation seems to have an appreciation for the oldies in general.”

Tired Thumbs are Not Just From Texting AnymoreRetro Games are Alive and Clicking at Medford Comic ConBY NOAH LEE MARGETTS

VIDEO GAME VORTEX CREDIT: JEFF MCKEAN

Although free for our readers, the Messenger is not free to publish. It is a nonprofit organization that runs on a shoestring budget. What sustains us is

our advertisers, a number of volunteers and perhaps you.

Become a contributing member today!

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$5/month helps the Messenger sustain its services.Join today: Patreon.com/RogueValleyMessenger


fri 27Living on Your Land ConferenceCONFERENCE—Nothing makes one feel quite as sophisticated as listening to a string quartet. Especially one as world renowned as the Minguet Quartett. Featuring Ulrich Isfort (First Violin), Annette Reisinger (Second Violin), Aroa Sorin (Viola), and Matthias Diener (Violoncello), they will wow with Haydn, Ruzicka, Mahler, and Beethoven. 7:30 pm. SOU Music Recital Hall, 450 S. Mountain Avenue, Ashland. $5 – $42.

sat 28-sun 29Taste of AshlandFESTIVAL—Delectable art, food, and wine pairings throughout the iconic city of Ashland has been drawing crowds for the annual Taste of Ashland for thirty years now, giving patrons an immersive experience like none other. Tasters will get to vote on their favorites, deciding who gets the coveted Taster’s Choice Award. Find the complete list of pairings at atasteofashland.com. 12 – 4 pm. Ashland. $45 – $65.

sat 28Generations Dance ConcertDANCE—Featuring dancers ranging in age from three-years-old to sixty-years-old, the Company & Clark Dancers will present their hard and beautiful work at their annual concert. Taught by “Miss Tina” (MFA in Dance) with over 25 years of dance teaching experience. 1:30 and 6:30 pm. Historic Ashland Armory, 208 Oak Street, Ashland. $15, presale. $18, door.

OUR PICKS[P]

fri 3-sun 5Improv on a Hot Tin RoofIMPROV—The hilarious, versatile and witty Hamazons are back with a tribute to Tennessee Williams. They will work their magic, fitting multiple scripted plays into one full-length unscripted play to the tune of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, The Glass Menagerie, and A Streetcar Named Desire. 8 pm, Fri., May 3 and Sat., May 4. 2 pm, Sun., May 5. $15, advance. $18, door.

thurs 2Shayna AdlerMUSIC—Hailing from Long Beach, California, Americana / folk / country / bluegrass artist Shayna Alder fits right in in Sothern Oregon. She sings from her heart—with just a taste of Leonard Cohen—but all with her own voice and style to tell her own story. 7 pm. Johnny B’s, 120 E. Sixth Street, Medford.

fri 3-sat 4Olivia MillerschinMUSIC—Multitalented in the musical arts of ukulele, piano, and guitar, Olivia Millerschin is best known for her singing and songwriting. A quarter finalist on America’s Got Talent, Millerschin put out her most recent album last year, Look Both Ways. 9 pm, Fri., May 3. Brickroom, 35 N. Main Street, Ashland. $10. 7 pm, Sat., May 4. Grants Pass Performing Arts Center, 830 NE Ninth Street, Grants Pass.

sat 4-sun 5Spring Garden FairFAIR—Spring can’t very well spring without a garden to spring out of. The Jackson County Master Gardeners have all the materials, all the know-how, and all the crazy plant stories to turn any thumb green. 9 am – 5 pm, Sat., May 4. 10 am – 4 pm, Sun., May 5. Jackson County Expo, 1 Peninger Road, Central Point. $3.

sat 4Southern OR Speed- way Season OpenerRACING—Kendall Oil Winged Spring Cars and IMCA Modifieds will kick off the 24th racing season at the Southern Oregon Speedway. The 3/10 mile clay oval track right here in the Rogue Valley will give the Indy 500 a run for its money when it comes to excitement and speed, all with the mud flying. Southern Oregon Speedway, 6900 Kershaw Road, White City.

wed 8Artificial IntelligenceREADING—Local author James Adams will share from his new book Artificial Intelligence—Confronting the Revolution, an story chronicling the fall of humanity due to unemployment and despair, right alongside the dramatic improvement of general health and climate change through the use of AI. 7 pm. Bloomsbury Books, 290 E. Main Street, Ashland. Free.

wed 1Eating AnimalsFILM—While films like these often scare folks away due to fear at being forced into vegetarianism, Eating Animals (2018) looks at those creating positive change in the animal farming industry. Of course the dangers of factory farming will be addressed, but Producer and Narrator Natalie Portman keeps things upbeat while equally informing. 6:45 pm. Ashland Library, 410 Siskiyou Boulevard, Ashland. Free.

sat 4Spanko De MayoMUSIC & DANCING—Unable to wait until the official Cinco de Mayo, Brickroom is bringing in DJ Spank to spin Latin beats, Reggaeton, and anything else that gets the crowd on their feet and dancing until it actually becomes Cinco de Mayo. 9 pm. Brickroom, 35 N. Main Street, Ashland. $5.

thurs 26Minguet String QuartettMUSIC—Nothing makes one feel quite as sophisticated as listening to a string quartet. Especially one as world renowned as the Minguet Quartett. Featuring Ulrich Isfort (First Violin), Annette Reisinger (Second Violin), Aroa Sorin (Viola), and Matthias Diener (Violoncello), they will wow with Haydn, Ruzicka, Mahler, and Beethoven. 7:30 pm. SOU Music Recital Hall, 450 S. Mountain Avenue, Ashland. $5 – $42.

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Thursday, April 25ASHLANDGame Knights and Dart Tourney - Black Sheep Pub & Restaurant. 7:30 pm.Karaoke - Oberon’s. 9 pm.Trivia with Peter Bolton - Smithfields Pub & Pies. 7:45 pm.

MEDFORDThe Brothers Reed - The Rogue Grape. 6 – 9 pm. Acoustic, Folk.Live Band Karaoke - Pier 21. 8 pm. Yu-Gi-Oh Tournament - Astral Games. 5:30 pm.

TALENTSip & Paint Pottery - TonTon’s Artisan Affections. 6 – 8 pm. $40.

Friday, April 26ASHLANDDanielle Kelly Soul Project - AQUA. 9 – 11 pm. Jazz.Siskiyou Singers - SOU Music Recital Hall. 3 pm. $5-20. LEFT - Black Sheep Pub & Restaurant. 9 pm.OLOX - Jackson Wellsprings. 8 pm. Masterworks 6: Beethoven & Berlioz - Rogue Valley Symphony. 7:30 – 10 pm.Minguet String Quartet - Center for the Arts at SOU. 7:30 – 9 pm. $35-42. Dan Engle and Friends - Oberon’s. 6 pm.

GRANTS PASSLove and Theft with Elvis Monroe, Fogline, and The Brothers Reed - Josephine County Fairgrounds. 6 – 11 pm. $20-35. Country, Folk.Saucy - G Street Bar and Grill. 8 pm. Soul, Jazz, Rock, Funk.Drake Nelson - Wild River Pizza & Pub. 8 – 10 pm. Stand-up Comedy.Perry Road - Cedarwood Saloon. 9 pm. Country Rock.

JACKSONVILLELeroy Jenkins Band - J’Ville Tavern. 9 pm. Classic Rock, Reggae. Open Mic - Pony Espresso. 5:30 – 8 pm.

MEDFORDJeff Kloetzel - Rocky Knoll Winery. 5:30 – 7 pm. Acoustic.Rogue Valley Symphony: MasterWorks 6 - Craterian Theater. 7:30 pm. $15-53.Blades of Grass - The Urban Cork. 5 – 7 pm. Bluegrass.

Skyler & The Smokes Let’s Go - Habanero’s Mexican Restaurant. 8:30 – 11:30 pm. Rock.

PHOENIXJaya (Raise) Release Party - Phoenix Clubhouse. 8 pm. $10-13. Hip Hop, Dance.

TALENTSweet N’ Juicy, A Hot Mess, and Laryssa Birdseye - Talent Club. 9 pm. Funk, Folk. $10.

Saturday, April 27 ASHLANDRobbie DaCosta and Ron Stamper - O’Shea’s Irish Pub. 5 – 8 pm. Rock.Apocalypse Songs and Slow Corpse - Black Sheep Pub & Restaurant. 9 pm. $7. Grunge, Surf Rock.Siskiyou Singers - SOU Music Recital Hall. 7:30 pm. $5-20.Danielle Kelly Soul Project and Cornflower - Unitarian Fellowship. 7 – 10 pm. Jazz.Tribal Seeds - Ashland Armory. 7 pm. $25. Reggae.

EAGLE POINTPhil King - Kriselle Cellars. 1 – 4 pm. Acoustic.

JACKSONVILLEJeff Kloetzel - Indigo Grill. 8 – 11 pm. Acoustic.

MEDFORDRogue Valley Symphony: MasterWorks 6 - Craterian Theater. 7:30 pm. $15-53.Adam Faucett with William Blackart - Johnny B’s. 9 pm. Americana.

ROGUE RIVERBob Haworth, John Hollis, and Andrew Brock - Rogue River Library. 12 – 2 pm. Folk.

TALENTObject Heavy - Talent Club. 9 pm. $10. Soul.

Sunday, April 28 APPLEGATEDiane Patterson - Wild Wines. 2 – 5 pm. Rock, Singer-songwriter.Brothers Gow - Applegate River Lodge. 8 pm. Rock, Jam.

ASHLANDCeltic Music Session - Black Sheep Pub & Restaurant. 2 – 5 pm.

Calvin Johnson and The Juniper Berries - Black Sheep Pub & Restaurant. 7 pm. $5. Indie Rock.The Merry Mariner’s - O’Shea’s Irish Pub. 4:30 – 6:30 pm.Generations Dance Concert - Ashland Armory. 1:30 and 6:30 pm.Masterworks 6: Beethoven & Berlioz - Rogue Valley Symphony. 3 – 5:30 pm.The Brothers Reed - Smithfields Pub & Pies. 8 – 10 pm. Folk, Americana.

GRANTS PASSSunset Palms - Wine & Brush. 4 – 6 pm. $40.

MEDFORDJulie Rose, Rick Millward, and Carla Ann Bauer - RoxyAnn Winery. 3 – 5 pm.Jon Galfano and Jen Ambrose - The Village at Medford Center. 4 – 6 pm. Light Rock, Pop.Sip and Paint Pottery - Common Block. 2 – 4 pm. $40.Carla Ann Bauer, Julie Rose, and Rick Millward - RoxyAnn Winery. 3 – 5 pm. Folk, Pop, Rock. John Dough Boys with Strictly Business - Howiee’s On Front. 9 pm. Punk Rock. Grateful Dead Open Mic - Osmo’s Alehouse. 6 – 9 pm.Purely Blue - EdenVale Winery. 2 – 4 pm.

Monday, April 29 ASHLANDOpen Mic - Oberon’s. 9 pm. Peggy Rose’s Singers’ Showcase - Wild Goose Cafe & Bar. 7 – 10:30 pm. Jazz.

MEDFORDPaul Turnipseed - Larks. 4:30 – 6 pm. Blues.

PHOENIXCommunity Jam Session/Creators Gathering - Phoenix Clubhouse. 6 – 10 pm.

Tuesday, April 30 ASHLANDOpen Mic with Robbie DaCosta - Black Sheep Pub & Restaurant. 8:30 pm. Hindustani Classic Music Concert - SOU Music Recital Hall. 7:30 – 9 pm. $5-15.The Weird Kids - Oberon’s. 8 – 11 pm. Alternative Rock. Pub Karaoke - Smithfields Pub & Pies. 9 pm. Ashland Tango Practica - The Dance Space. 8:15 – 9:30 pm.

GRANTS PASSShooting Stars - Wine & Brush. 6 – 9 pm. $45. Latin Tuesday - Climate City Brewing Company. 7 – 9 pm. $5.

MEDFORDDoug Warners - Larks. 4:30 – 6 pm. Blues, Rock.

Wednesday, May 1ASHLANDNicole Dahl and Rick Millward - Luna Cafe + Mercantile. 5:30 – 7:30 pm. Pop, Rock, Acoustic.Gerry O’Connor accompanied by Richard Mandel - Grizzly Peak Winery. 7 pm. $20-24. Irish Fiddle.Open Mic - AQUA. 8 – 10 pm. The People’s Open Mic - Jackson Wellsprings. 8 pm.

GRANTS PASSTrivia Night - SpeakEasy Tap Room & Wine Bar. 6:30 – 8:30 pm.

MEDFORDOpen Jam - Pier 21. 8 pm. Lee Stewart - Larks. 4:30 – 6 pm.Open Mic Night - Bad Ass Coffee Company. 6 – 9 pm.

Thursday, May 2ASHLANDMatt the Electrician - Headwaters Building. 6:30 – 9 pm. $15-20. Acoustic, Folk, Pop.EDM Night - Brickroom. 9 pm. $7. Game Knight - Black Sheep Pub & Restaurant. 8 pm. Karaoke - Oberon’s. 9 pm. Jimmy Pinwheel Band - Wild Goose Cafe & Bar. 8 – 11 pm.Trivia Night with Peter Bolton - Smithfields Pub & Pies. 7:45 – 10 pm.

GRANTS PASSThe Brothers Reed - Weekend Beer Company. 6 – 9 pm. Acoustic, Americana. The Resinators and Skyler Lutes - The Sound Lounge. 8 pm. Rock, Reggae.

MEDFORDPaint and Sip Pottery - Grape Street Bar & Grill. 6 – 8 pm. $40. Jeff Kloetzel - Larks. 4:30 – 6 pm. Acoustic. Pound, Thrpii, Your Hands Write History, and Duskala - The Bamboo Room at King Wah’s. 7 – 10 pm. $7. Metal. Yu-Gi-Oh Tournament - Astral Games. 5:30 pm.The New Arkansans - Osmo’s Alehouse. 6:30 pm. Acoustic.Shayna Adler - Johnny B’s. 7 pm. Americana, Folk.

TALENT Blades of Grass - The Pump House. 6 – 8 pm. Bluegrass.Garcia Birthday Band - Talent Club. 9:30 pm. $15.

Friday, May 3ASHLANDImpulse Control - Three Penny Mercantile. 6 – 9 pm. Power Rock Trio.Shake ‘n Bake - Ashland Art Center. 5 – 8 pm. Jazz.Silent Disco - Lithia Park. 5 – 11 pm.

______ Art ______MARIANNE NIELSEN AND MARILYN ZUPAN AT ART DU JOURThroughout April. With a passion for watercolor, Marianne Nielsen say it is her favorite media because of its versatility regarding techniques and textures. Marilyn Zupan has always had a deep love for England’s gentle country landscapes and rustic stone homes and bridges. Her father was English and she spent three years in England falling in love with her ancestral land. Art du Jour, 213 E Main St, Medford.

BETTY LADUKE AT GRANTS PASS MUSEUM OF ARTApril 2 through May 24. Betty LaDuke, an Ashland artist who is well known both nationally and internationally will exhibit her artwork at the Grants Pass Museum of Art. Social Justice Revisited spans five decades of select artwork: remembering, reliving, resisting. This series raises questions about personal and political relationships concerning how we live, what we have done, and what we need to do individually and collectively for peace and global survival. Grants Pass Museum of Art, 229 SW G St, Grants Pass.

ART SALON AT ASHLAND LIBRARYSunday, April 28 at 2 pm. Despite his love for painting, Micah Ofstedahl focused on sculpture and ceramics at Minnesota State, Mankato. His

work sculpting with clay, wood, and plaster as well as life drawing classes would later inform his painting a great deal.

THE UNCONSCIOUS IN PAINT: MICAH OFSTENDAHLApril 4 through May 21. Ashland artist Micah Ofstedahl combines the conscious observations of science with the subconscious imagination in his surrealistic acrylic paintings. The Berryman Gallery is located upstairs at the Craterian Theater. You may visit the Berryman before the Craterian’s performances; see their website for dates at www.craterian.org/calendar. Craterian Theater, 23 S Central Ave, Medford.

SUE SPRINGER AND ROBERT KOCH AT HANSON HOWARD GALLERYMay 3 through June 4. Springer creates quirky ceramic sculptures which are mostly figurative, with a whimsy and freedom of unexpected combinations. Dreams, imagination and wonder combine with a response to the current world to tell the stories of these figures. For Koch, a successful painting is not only compositionally strong but also has a story to tell and if the result makes him laugh then he knows he has done what he has set out to do. Hanson Howard Gallery, 89 Oak St, Ashland.

JOHN CHRISTER PETERSEN, JO ANN MANZONE, AND GLORIA KATSENBERG AT ASHLAND ART CENTER

Throughout May. John Christer Petersen, a local fine art photographer, primarily exhibits landscapes, seascapes and architecture from his worldly travels. Jo Ann is a garment maker with a working studio at Ashland Art Center where she creates and teaches. As our senses awaken with the Spring, Katsenberg’s paintings capture the colors and light found in life’s many forms. Ashland Art Center, 357 E Main St, Ashalnd.

_____ Classes _____TUTORIAL TUESDAYSJoin fellow genealogy researchers Tuesday evenings at the Jackson County Genealogy Library. Learn how to access the Library’s websites, how to use them effectively, and how to improve your research skills. Each webinar is shown twice, once at 5pm and again at 7pm. Webinars are FREE for Rogue Valley Genealogical Society members, and $5 for non-members. Jackson County Genealogy Library, 3405 S. Pacific Highway, Medford. For more information call 541-512-2340, email [email protected], or stop by the Genealogy Library. For a listing of all events and Tuesday tutorials, visit www.rvgsociety.org. Jackson County Genealogy Library, 3405 S Pacific Hwy, Medford.

INTERMEDIATE ACRYLIC PAINTINGTuesdays, April 16 through May 21 from 10:45 am – 12:45 pm. Continue your studies in acrylic painting techniques ranging from nature studies, landscape, figures and still life. Instructor-led

studies as well as the opportunity for students to follow their own interests with individual support. PRE-REGISTRATION AT ashland.or.us/register is required. Please call 541.488.5340 for a supply list. $99. The Grove, 1195 E Main St, Ashland.

THE FUTURE OF FARMING IS REGENERATIVEApril 28, May 9 and 10, June 9, July 21, Aug. 11, and Oct. 11. The Future of Farming is a six part learning series about Regenerative agriculture. We will begin by laying the foundation for theory about regenerative agriculture, then the series will focus on connecting theory with practices in-the-field, and conclude with examples of farms that have successfully implemented these principles. $30-130. Visit www.ourfamilyfarms.org for more info and to register.

HOMELESS 2 HOPEFUL SUPERHERO RUNSaturday, May 4 at 10 am. This event features a 1-mile Fun Run/Walk and a chip-timed 5K & 10K run. Participants and spectators are encouraged to wear their favorite SUPERHERO outfit. Also enjoy food trucks, bounce house, and face painting. All proceeds to benefit Hearts with a Mission. Valley of the Rogue State Park, Gold Hill.

BUILD A BIRDHOUSE FOR MOTHERS DAYSaturday, May 11. Mother’s Day special! Build a bird house Gain carpentry skills and be more self sufficient while creating a sweet little nest box

EVENTS

LIVE MUSICand Nightlife LIVE MUSICand NightlifeOlivia Millerscin - Brickroom. 9 pm. $10. Singer-songwriter. Waking Hazel - Gil’s. 6 – 8 pm. Bluegrass, Roots. Impulse Control - Three Penny Mercantile. 6 – 9 pm. Pop Punk, Alternative Rock.Decker - Oberon’s. 9:30 pm. Singer-songwriter. Dan Engle and Friends - Oberon’s. 6 pm.

GOLD HILLThe Fret Drifters - Del Rio Vineyards. 3 pm. Acoustic, Pop, Indie.

GRANTS PASSKaraoke Dance Night - Candela Dance Studio. 7:30 pm.Andrew Henderson Trio - Cedarwood Saloon. 9 pm.Jen Ambrose - The Royal Barge Thai Cuisine. 6 – 9 pm.Maureen McGovern - Grants Pass Performing Arts Center. 7:30 pm. Jazz.

JACKSONVILLEFrankie Hernandez Band - J’Ville Tavern. 9 pm. Soul, Funk, Reggae.

MEDFORDHog Wild - Walkabout Brewing Company. 6 – 8 pm. Classic Rock.Dead Thrall and Ancient Burials - Johnny B’s. 8 pm. Death Metal.Ryan Stevenson - Rise Coffeehouse. 7 – 8:30 pm. Hailey Verhaalen and Trent Beaver - Grape Street Bar and Grill. 9 pm. Country.The Giantess - Habanero’s Mexican Restaurant. 8:30 – 11:30 pm. Rock.The Rogue Pianist - Larks. 4:30 – 6 pm. Classical, Contemporary.Sip & Paint Impasto Pony - Art 4 Joy. 6 – 9 pm. $45.Everson Pines - Howiee’s On Front. 7 pm. Rock, Blues, Americana.

PHOENIX Beer Sip & Paint - Wine & Brush. 6 – 8:30 pm. $40.

TALENTAllen Crutcher and the Ruby Slippers - Kindred Spirits. 7–9 pm. Rock.

Saturday, May 4ASHLANDSoundscapes - Ashland High School. 7:30 pm.OMM - Oberon’s. 10 pm. Hip Hop, Funk.Sparkle Carpet, Loud in the Morning, John Dough Boys - Black Sheep Pub & Restaurant. 8 pm. $5.Spank de Mayo - Brickroom. 9 pm. $5. Funk, Dance.The Maybe Sometimes - Smithfields Pub & Pies. 8 – 10:30 pm. Folk.Blades of Grass - ScienceWorks. 1 – 2 pm. Bluegrass.Green Mountain Guild - Lithia Artisans Market. 11:30 am – 1 pm. Singer-songwriter.

GRANTS PASSJazz Fest - Grants Pass High School. 5 pm. $10-15.Olivia Millerschin - Grants Pass Museum of Art. 7 pm. Singer-songwriter.

JACKSONVILLEDanielle Kelly Soul Project - South Stage Cellars. 2 – 5 pm. Jazz, Soul.

MEDFORDA Cappella Show of Champions - Central Medford High School. 7 – 9 pm. $15. Fogline - Grape Street Bar & Grill. 8 pm. Country Rock.Latino Night with DJ Coco - Habanero’s Mexican Restaurant. 9 pm.

PHOENIXLlama Sip & Paint - Wine & Brush. 3 – 5:30 pm. $40.

TALENTGreg St. Clair - StoneRiver Vineyard. 5 – 7 pm. Country, Pop.SaQi, Isaac Chambers, and Akal Dub - Ton

Ton’s Artisan Affections. 8 pm. Hip Hop, Soul. $25. Frankie Hernandez Band - Jay Mike’s Rockin Cedar Ranch. 6 – 10 pm. Funk, Reggae, Pop.

Sunday, May 5APPLEGATESunday Nights Unplugged - Applegate River Lodge. 7 – 11 pm.

ASHLANDCeltic Music Session - Black Sheep Pub & Restaurant. 2 – 5 pm.Bekkah McAlvage - Lithia Artisans Market. 11:30 am – 1:30 pm. Folk, Roots.Paul Turnipseed Trio - Luna Cafe + Mercantile. 4 – 6 pm. Jazz.

GOLD HILLMustard - Del Rio Vineyards. 3 – 5 pm. Cover band.Gypsy Gillis - Lucky’s. 3 – 7 pm. Rock.

JACKSONVILLEThe Brothers Reed - Schoolhaus Brewhaus. 2:30 – 4:30 pm. Folk, Americana.

MEDFORDThe Mercy Duo - The Village at Medford Center. 4 – 6 pm. Blues, Light Rock, Soul.Frankie Hernandez Band - The Wharf. 3 – 6 pm. Soul, Funk, Reggae.

PHOENIXCinco de Mayo Celebration - Phoenix Clubhouse. 5 – 10 pm. $7-10.

TALENTCollin and Co. - Talent Club. 6 – 10 pm. Rock, Funk, Bluegrass.

Monday, May 6ASHLANDOpen Mic - Oberon’s. 9 pm.TSA Trio - Wild Goose Cafe & Bar. 8 – 10:30 pm. Jazz.

GRANTS PASSKaraoke Contest - Shenanigans. 8 pm.

MEDFORDEd DUnsavage - Larks. 4:30 – 6 pm.

Tuesday, May 7 ASHLANDPaint and Sip Pottery - Liquid Assets. 6 – 8 pm. $40.Pub Karaoke - Smithfields Pub & Pies. 9 pm.Open Mic hosted by Robbie DaCosta - Black Sheep Pub & Restaurant. 8:30 pm.Ashland Tango Practica - The Dance Space. 8:15 pm.

GRANTS PASSHorse Sign Sip & Paint - Wine & Brush. 6 – 8:30 pm. $20. Keb’ Mo’ - Rogue Theater. 7 pm. Blues.

MEDFORDFlight Mongoose and Wonderstump - Johnny B’s. 9 pm. $5.Doug Warner - Larks. 4:30 – 6 pm. Blues.

Wednesday, May 8 ASHLANDOpen Mic - AQUA. 8 – 10 pm.Blacksage Runner’s - Oberon’s. 8 – 11 pm. Rock, Blues.Blades of Grass - Black Sheep Pub & Restaurant. 8 – 10 pm. Bluegrass.The People’s Open Mic - Jackson Wellsprings. 8 pm. Q&A Duo - Wild Goose Cafe & Bar. 7 – 10 pm.

MEDFORDThe Brothers Reed - RoxyAnn Winery. 6 – 8 pm. Folk, Americana.David Cahalan - Larks. 4:30 – 6 pm. Contemporary.Open Jam - Pier 21. 8 pm.Sip & Paint King of the Coop - Art 4 Joy. 6 – 9 pm. $40.

OLOX WILL PERFORM AT JACKSON WELLSPRINGS APRIL 26.

ON APRIL 27 PHIL KING WILL PERFORM ACOUSTIC SONGS AT KRISELLE CELLARS.


EVENTSto house one of the many nesting birds in the area. Email Lydia Doleman directly at [email protected] or go to workshops page at www.theflyinghammer.com and fill out the contact form. Please include the workshop you are interested, number of people you are registering for and if you are needing child care. $100.

PAINT LIKE MATISSESaturday, May 4 from 1 – 4 pm. Learn about Matisse, and Fauvism. Create your own copy of your favorite Matisse on an 8” x 10” canvas. Explore bright color, flat surfaces, bold patterns, and a change of perspective. All supplies included. $30-35. Learn more at gpmuseum.com. Grants Pass Museum of Art, 229 SW G St, Grants Pass.

CRATERWORKS: THE MAKERSPACESaturdays, May 4 through Oct. 26 from 10 am – 2 pm. Located at the north tip of Central Point’s Artisan Corridor, the MarketPlace offers the opportunity to showcase all types of makers under the largest covered outdoor market space in the valley. The MarketPlace offers our artisans the opportunity to be part of our community with ease, no tent required and electricity available for small fee. The first step in joining this dynamic and energetic community is to complete this form. CraterWorks: The MakerSpace, 419 N Front St, Central Point.

FREE GRANTS WRITING 101 WORKSHOPThursday, May 2 from 2:30 – 5:30 pm. Local cultural non-profits will learn about JCCC, OCT and other funding opportunities; and review basic grant writing tips. This is an ideal workshop for organizations who have been unable to attend previous JCCC workshops, for new grant writers, and for grant writers who may be new to OCT or JCCC grant applications. Medford Library, Adams Room, 205 S Central Ave, Medford.

ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS IN A STRONG PAINTING WITH SHERI DINARDIApril 26 and 27 from 9 am – 4 pm. What do professional painters see when they paint? In this course you will learn to see shape, value, temperature and edge quality to create stronger form in your current work. $210-220. Register at https://www.roguegallery.org/register.pl. Rogue Gallery & Art Center, 40 S Bartlett St, Medford.

HOW TO DRAW PEOPLE WITH DAVID TERRYThursdays, May 2 through June 6 from 11 am – 3 pm. Want to learn how to draw people? This 6 week workshop will explore several different approaches for drawing people and the human figure with accuracy and artistic skill using a live model. $200-210. Register at https://www.roguegallery.org/register.pl. Rogue Gallery & Art Center, 40 S Bartlett St, Medford.

ROGUE STUDIO FIGURE DRAWING SESSIONSTuesdays, May 7 through June 11 from 6 – 8:30 pm. Six Tuesday evenings for moderated, uninstructed figure drawing sessions with a live model in the Rogue Studio. Adults 18 years and older from beginning to advanced levels are welcome. Students must provide their own drawing materials. Drawing boards, worktables and easels are available for use. $45. Register at https://www.roguegallery.org/register.pl. Rogue Gallery & Art Center, 40 S Bartlett St, Medford.

SOIL TESTING FOR GARDENS AND AND HOME LANDSCAPESThursday, April 25 from 5:30 – 7 pm. Get set for an interactive class in taking a soil sample and interpreting results to improve your garden or home landscape. OSU Extension’s agriculture expert, Dr. Gordon Jones, joins OSU Master Gardener Program Coordinator, Erika Szonntag in evaluating the soil sample you bring. $5-15. OSU Extension Auditorium, 569 Hanley Rd, Central Point.

____ Community ____BALLROOM DANCINGEvery Tuesday from 1:30 – 4 pm with lessons starting at 12:30 pm. Every week Square Dance Hall is not only teaching the public how to ballroom dance, but is opening its doors to invite everyone to enjoy the dance together. $3. Live music by Dave Flick. Square Dance Hall, 3377, Table Rock Rd, Medford.

SUNDAYS IN SPRING AT HANLEY FARMMay 5, 19, and 26 from 11 am to 3 pm. Stroll the gardens and visit the orchards, fields, chickens and sheep; join in family-fun gardening activities; enjoy live music; and tour the historic Hanley House. Bring a picnic or make your own pizza and salad with locally grown fresh food available at the farm. Hanley Farm, 1053 Hanley Rd, Central Point.

34TH ANNUAL GEM & MINERAL SHOW April 26 and 27 from 9 am – 5 pm and 28 from 10 am – 4 pm. Rock hounds, it’s show time! Whatever you are looking for - hand-crafted jewelry, mining equipment, crystals, rough rock, polished slabs, or maybe gems - you’re sure to find it at the Gem & Mineral Show. $1-2. Josephine County Fairgrounds, 1451 Fairground Rd, Grants Pass.

ART IN BLOOMMay 11 from 10 am – 5 pm and May 12 from 11 am – 4 pm. Art in Bloom is a spectacular springtime festival showcasing fine artists from the West Coast. A variety of artists and horticulturists have been selected to exhibit and sell their work including a fine selection of photography, jewelry, garden decor, paintings, and much more. Bartlett St and surrounding blocks of downtown Medford.

ROGUE VALLEY PIECEMAKERS 39TH ANNUAL QUILT SHOWMay 10 and 11 from 9:30 am – 4 pm. The annual quilt show’s theme is Wild Things, featuring over 200 quilts on display, special exhibits, door prizes, raffle baskets, and more. $5. Go to www.RVPiecemakers.com for more information. Josephine County Fairgrounds, 1451 Fairground Rd, Grants Pass.

MEADOWLARK COMIC CONSaturday, May 11 from 10 am – 5 pm. Meadowlark Comic Con brings fans of pop culture the ultimate fandom experience with a flavor of the community. Comic books, celebrity guests, toys, video games, cosplay, and more. Fun for all ages. For more information go to https://www.meadowlarkcomiccon.com/. Ramada Medford Hotel & Convention Center, 2250 Biddle Rd, Medford.

GRANTS PASS GARDEN CLUB’S ANNUAL PLANT SALESaturday, April 27 from 9 am – 3 pm. This year, in addition to annuals, perennials, bulbs, vines, vegetables and ground covers the sale will feature a variety of tomatoes requested by last year’s customers. There will also be a bake sale full of breads and sweets and even something for the doggies, who are welcome on leash, and a raffle featuring a number of garden related items. Abby’s parking lot, 1560 Williams Hwy, Grants Pass.

40TH ANNUAL SPRING GARDEN FAIRMay 4 from 9 am – 5 pm and May 5 from 10 am – 4 pm. Find flowers, vegetables, shrubs, trees, soil amendments and garden equipment from more than 100 vendors as you head into the gardening season. Check out lawn and garden art, enter a raffle for garden items, get information on pollinator-friendly gardening, and stop by free “how to” classes provided by Jackson County Master Gardener Association experts. $3. Jackson County Expo, 1 Peninger Rd, Central Point.

MAY FAIRSaturday, May 4 from 11 am – 3 pm.This annual festival is a fun family-friendly event with vendors, food trucks, entertainment, class activity booths, May Pole celebration and so much more. Madrone Trail Public Charter School, 3070 Ross Lane, Central Point.

HERITAGE PLANT SALEApril 27 and 28 from 10 am – 3 pm. Visitors will select from over 70 different varieties of plants from Hanley Farm, take them home and transplant a bit of history in their own yard. Thank you for helping to get the word out about this historic, fun event. Hanley Farm, 1053 Hanley Rd, Central Point.

EMPTY BOWLSFriday, April 26 from 4 – 7 pm. Empty Bowls is the annual event that raises funds for organizations addressing food insecurity in Ashland. $10-25. Wesley Hall of First United Methodist Church, 175 N Main St, Ashland.

1932 LIVING HISTORY TOURSaturday, April 27 from 10:30 am – 2 pm. Historic Jacksonville, Inc. invites you to time travel to the Depression Era and not only learn about history, but also become part of it during our Beekman House “1932 Living History” tours! $5-8. Beekman House Museum, 470 E California St, Jacksonville.

5th ANNUAL MEDFORD COMIC CONApril 27 and 28 from 11 am – 4 pm. This free, family-friendly destination for fans of the arts, technology, and popular culture in our region boasts an action-packed lineup of workshops, vendors, and panel discussions. Numerous free workshops are scheduled on film, culture, writing, cosplay, gaming, fan art, comics, and crafts. Learn

more at jcls.org. Medford Library, 205 S Central Ave, Medford.

__ Kids & Family __ NINJAKIDSMondays and Wednesdays from 4 – 5 pm. Children walk away from this class with a tough workout under his and her belt and having developed basic Ninjutsu skills. This class is not only to teach children these, but also to build self esteem, encourage exercising, and discipline. The first week is free. $50. Rogue Protection Group, 2185 #A1, Spalding Ave, Grants Pass.

FAMILY FUN ARCHERYMondays from 6:30 – 7:30 pm. Featuring moving targets/4D archery. Beginner’s welcome. All equipment supplied. Family rates. For ages 8 and up. Children required to shoot with a supervising adult. More info at www.MoonbowArchery.com. The Grove, 1195 E Main St, Ashland.

PRESCHOOL PUPPET THEATERMay 10 from 10:30 – 11:45 am. Gather around and see what Trickster Coyote and friends are up to this season. A brief nature lesson will be followed by the puppet show and play time. A snack and related craft/activity will then be available. Reservations are guaranteed only until 10:30am. Please arrive early, as space and parking is limited (no late seating). Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times during the program. PRE-REGISTRATION AT ashland.or.us/register is required. $6 per child. North Mountain Park, 620 N Mountain Ave, Ashland.

CERAMICS FOR KIDS WITH LIZ O’BRIENMondays from 3:30 – 5 pm. A fun way for kids to explore the world of clay! Ages five to six must bring a supervising adult for their first class. Ages seven to 12 may come unaccompanied by adult. All parents must sign their children in, pay prior to class and leave emergency contact info with Ashland Art Center. $10 for drop-ins, plus $3 firing fee. Ashland Art Center, 357 E Main St, Ashland.

EVENTSKIDS CLAY WITH KEELEY BITTNERTuesdays from 3:30 –5 pm. A special clay class created just for kids! Join clay instructor Keeley Bittner for a special clay class tailored just for young people. Explore the medium and make some cool stuff! Max 10 students. $10 for drop-ins, plus $3 firing fee. Ashland Art Center, 357 E Main St, Ashland.

SCIENCE WORKS SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION OPENApril 1 through June 3 from 10 am – 5 pm. Summer camps at ScienceWorks are an enriching and educational way for youth to spend their summers. Sign up for one week, or the entire summer! Every week at ScienceWorks, summer camps are focused on different science topics some include Scientific Illustration, Mushrooms, Space, and more! To Sign up for Summer Camps: https://scienceworksmuseum.org/camps/. ScienceWorks Hands-On Museum, 1500 E. Main St, Ashland

SPRING YOUNG ARTISTS’ STUDIOTuesdays, April 30 through June 4 from 3:30 – 5 pm. Ages 7 – 11. In this exploratory workshop young artists will get their hands in clay, press original prints, construct eye catching mosaics, and much more! $75 for members, $85 for non-members. Sign up at https://www.roguegallery.org/register.pl. Rogue Gallery & Art Center, 40 S Bartlett St, Medford.

KIDS WORKSHOP WITH THE FLYING HAMMERSaturday, May 4 from10 am – 3 pm. Build a tool box with your child! Email Lydia Doleman directly at [email protected] or go to workshops page at www.theflyinghammer.com and fill out the contact form. Please include the workshop you are interested, number of people you are registering for and if you are needing child care. $75.

__ Sports & Outdoor __ SPRING HIKE SERIES: BEES AND BLOSSOMSSaturday, May 4 from 9 am – 2 pm. Join us for a moderately easy hike within the Cascade Siskiyou Monument to identify some prime pollinator species. Bee Expert Brian Dykstra of Native Bee Society will explore the world of bees and their relationship to wildflowers. Sign up at kswild.org to learn more information and learn the location.

FOR THE EARLY BIRDSSaturday, April 27 at 8 am. Join local bird experts Bob Quaccia, with Rogue Valley Audubon Society, and Frank Lospalluto, with Klamath Bird Observatory, to view the spring birds of the Table Rocks. Learn ID tips and conservation information. Bring binoculars and ID books if you desire. Register at https://early-birds-hike-2019.eventbrite.com.

SHARE YOUR NATURE WITH INATURALISTSunday, April 28 at 9 am. Learn to be a citizen scientist and share nature as we use the iNaturalist app to identify plants and wildlife. These photo observations help scientists document species around the world. Experienced naturalists will provide guidance in recording your observations on this hike. Register at https://inaturalist-hike-2019.evenbrite.com.

SPRING IN BLOOM FAMILY HIKESaturday, May 4 at 9 am. Celebrate National Wildflower Week on a general information hike suitable for the whole family. Topics will include wildflower identification, ethnobotany, geology, wildlife, ecology and cultural history. Register at https://family-hike-2019.eventbrite.com.

TRAIL MAINTENANCE WORK PARTYSaturday, May 4 at 9 am. One more volunteer day on the East Applegate Ridge Trail and it is done, for now. Join us to meet new friends, develop camaraderie, get some exercise, help your community and discover this incredibly beautiful trail. The east trailhead is located at the end of BLM road 38-2-29.1. Easy to find - from Jacksonville, turn left on Cady Road, turn right on Sterling Creek Road, turn right again 100 yards past the 4-mile marker and proceed to the trailhead. ATA provides tools, snacks, and lunch.

_____ Stage _____OREGON SHAKESPEARE FESTIVALMarch through October. Hairspray: The Broadway Musical. Macbeth. Cambodian Rock Band. All’s Well That Ends Well. As You Like It. How to Catch Creation. Between Two Knees. Mother Road. Alice in Wonderland. Indecent. La Comedia of Errors. Visit osfashland.org for tickets and more information.

THE DIXIE SWIM CLUBApril 12 through 28. Five Southern women, whose friendships began many years ago on their college swim team, set aside a long weekend every August to recharge those relationships. Free from husbands, kids and jobs, they meet at the same beach cottage on North Carolina’s Outer Banks to catch up, laugh and meddle in each other’s lives. $12-15. Barnstormers Theatre, 112 NE Evelyn Ave, Grants Pass.

SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE SIGN OF THE FOURApril 11 through May 26. “Sherlock Holmes & the Sign of the Four” brings Holmes and Watson back to the Cabaret for an adventure that takes the audience from a prison in India to 221B Baker Street and on to the Thames for an onstage boat chase. Go to oregoncabaret.com for more information.

CATTLE MUTILATION: THE MUSICALApril 23 through 28. “Cattle Mutilation: The Musical” tells the story of two dueling parent child relationships, one from Earth, and another from the Crab Nebula, and what happens when they all get mixed up on a late-night search for Bigfoot. Will be performed at Oregon Fringe Festival.

SHOUT!April 19 through May 4. Musical theater meets Laugh-In in this frothy, infectious, all-new production of “Shout! The Mod Musical.” This bright vinyl time capsule tracks five groovy girls as they come of age in the 60’s, and flips through the years taking you back to the music, fashion and freedom of that liberating decade. $5-20. Purchase tickets at www.randalltheatre.com. Randall Theatre, 10 E 3rd St, Medford.

THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTYApril 12 through May 12. “The Bridges of Madison County,” based on the best-selling Robert James Waller novel of the same name, focuses on Francesca, an Italian war bride living in Iowa in 1965 and her encounter with Robert Kincaid. $15-28. Purchase tickets and get more information at ctpmedford.org. Collaborative Theatre Project, 555 Medford Center, Medford.

ROMEO & JULIETApril 25 through 27. “Romeo & Juliet,” Shakespeare’s most popular romantic tragedy of two “Star-crossed” lovers, performed at the Crater Performing Arts Center. It’s a timeless story of young passions caught between the feuding families of Capulet and Montague. $5. Crater Performing Arts Center, 655 N Third St, Central Point.

IMPROV ON A HOT TIN ROOFMay 3 through 5. The Hamazons present, “Improv on a Hot Tin Roof,” a performance where comedy improv smolders in the Southern Gothic world of Tennessee Williams. The Hamazons will deliver a full-length improvised play filled with charm, passion, ruin, redemption, and laughter. Watch them take on sordid pasts, raw emotions, and dysfunctional family dynamics. $15-18. Purchase tickets at www.hamazons.com. Bellview Grange, 1050 Tollman Creek Rd, Ashland.

___ Presentations ___NEW HIKES OF CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN OREGON WITH WILLIAM SULLIVANThursday, May 2 from 6:30 – 7 pm. Author, historian, backcountry adventurer William Sullivan has just done a complete update the hiking guide book for Central Oregon––huge changes because of fires and an upcoming permit system. Northwest Nature Shop, 154 Oak St, Ashland.

POETS TIA HATCH AND DIANA MORLEYThursday, April 25 at 7 pm. Tia Hatch will share poetry from “Life Woven in Words” and Diana Morley will share from “Spreading Like Water.” Bloomsbury Books, 290 E Main St, Ashland.

POETRY READING WITH THE SOMEWHAT ROGUE GROUPMonday, April 29 at 7 pm. “Somewhat Rogue” comprises Ann Lovett, Linda Jaffe, and Kim Hamilton, who are long-time practicing poets, but relatively new to the Rogue Valley poetry community. Bloomsbury Books, 290 E Main St, Ashland.

AUTHOR G.A. COCKERMAN AT BARNES & NOBLESaturday, April 27 at 2 pm. Oregon author, G. A. Cockerham, will sign copies of both “Murder On The Oregon Coast” and “Murder On The Wind,” the first two books in her O’Toole/Starker murder mystery series. The lead detectives work out of a small police department on the Oregon coast and use their intellect, experience and drive to bring more than one killer to justice. Barnes & Noble, 1400 Biddle Rd, Medford.

CENTRAL POINT: A CROSSROADS IN TIMEWednesday, May 1 from 12 – 1 pm. Central Point, the third largest city in Jackson County, has a rich history. Alice Mullaly, retired educator and current researcher, presents the latest Windows in Time talk. Medford Library, 205 S Central Ave, Medford.

AUTHOR JAMES ADAMS AT BLOOMSBURY BOOKSWednesday, May 8 at 7 pm. Over the next 15 years, America will be transformed with tens of millions of jobs lost, rapidly growing inequalities and a swollen underclass. At the same time, health care will be transformed, lifespans extended and climate change tackled through Artificial Intelligence. Adams will be sharing the findings from his latest book, “Artificial Intelligence: Confronting The Revolution.” Bloomsbury Books, 290 E Main St, Ashland.

A CLIMATE CHANGE SERIES: RISKS, HAZARDS, AND SOLUTIONSSunday, April 28 from 5 – 7 pm. Expert speakers will discuss global climate change effects, local alternatives to current fire management, plus inspiring videos, Q&A. Please arrive early if ordering food. Wild River Brewing & Pizza, 249 Redwood Hwy, Cave Junction.

SURVIVORS OF WAR: INDIAN WOMEN IN JACKSONVILLETuesday, May 7 at 7 pm. Most indigenous

Americans in the Rogue Valley were forced onto the Table Rock Reservation in the 1850s, and then on to the Grand Ronde and Siletz reservations, though some Indian women remained in Jacksonville and surrounding settlements. Pat explores who these ladies were, where they lived, and how they managed to get by. Four Daughters, 126 W Main St, Medford.

AUTHOR RUTH ANNE RHINE AT BLOOMSBURY BOOKSMonday, May 6 at 7 pm. The Author, Ruth Anne Rhine, will be discussing her book’s beneficial content, who Archangel Metatron is, and her development of channeling, along with reading a few excerpts. Bloomsbury Books, 290 E Main St, Ashland.

____Meetings ____RCC MASSAGE THERAPY PROGRAM MEETINGSMay 28 from 5:30 – 7 pm. Learn about local employment opportunities, including wage ranges and the meaning of “accredited,” a “one-year certificate,” and “financial-aid eligible.” This program includes the training and practicum hours that meet the requirements for Oregon state licensure and national certification. For more information, visit www.roguecc.edu/massage or contact them at 541-956-7066 or [email protected]. RCC Redwood Campus, Building M, Room 1, 3345 Redwood Hwy, Grants Pass.

MAMA TEA TIMEThursdays from 10 am – 12 pm. A safe space created by women for women. Through deep sharing, we will discuss all things motherhood, from the mystical to the mundane. Whether you have been a mother for 2 days or 30 years, are an Auntie, a Sister, haven’t yet welcomed your babe earthside, or are still waiting to become pregnant, you are welcome here. Family Massage Education Center, 77 Manzanita St, Ashland.

LITHIA PARK MASTER PLAN PUBLIC MEETINGThursday, April 25 from 6:30 – 8:30 pm. APRC’s team of consultants, led by the Portland office of MIG, Inc., have scheduled a public meeting at Ashland Senior Center. The meeting will give the community an opportunity to review and provide feedback on the draft master plan recommendations. Ashland Senior Center, 1699 Homes Ave, Ashland.

WOMEN’S FEMINIST CONSCIOUSNESS-RAISING GATHERINGSundays from 3:30 – 5:30 pm. This group is for women to gather and discuss feminist issues amongst one another. Boss Up Studio, 1 W 6th St, Medford.

CONVERSATIONS FROM THE HEART GROUP MEETINGSunday, April 28 at 4 pm. We will be discussing, in a small intimate group, a variety of compelling topics, such as the nature of friendship, community, and connection, as well as more socially oriented topics, such as the responsibilities of individuals within a society. For more information, please go to “Conversations from the Heart” on Meetup.com, or text (530) 282-2246. Ashland Library, 410 Siskiyou Blvd, Ashland.

_____ Food _____ROGUE VALLEY GROWERS & CRAFTERS MARKET March 7 – Nov. 21 on Thursdays from 8:30 am – 1:30 pm. Hawthorne Park, Medford.March 5 – Nov. 26 on Tuesdays from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm. National Guard Armory, 1420 E Main St, Ashland.

DON’T MISS OUT AT THE 5TH ANNUAL MEDFORD COMIC CON APRIL 27 AND 28.


EVENTS30TH ANNUAL TASTE OF ASHLANDApril 27 and 28. A Taste of Ashland is unique because each gallery, winery, and restaurant are meticulously matched, working together to create unique pairings so attendees experience a delight of senses. $45-65. For tickets and more information about A Taste of Ashland 2019 a complete list of pairings go to: www.atasteofashland.com or call (541) 951-9442.

ROAM THE ROGUESaturday, May 4 from 11 am – 5 pm. Roam the Rogue is the perfect way experience the Upper Rogue region of our valley. Wine’d through the beautiful and scenic Upper Rogue in this self-guided tour and savor two wines and two deliciously paired appetizers at all four participating wineries. $39. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to http://roamtherogue.com/.

_____ Film _____EATING ANIMALSWednesday, May 1 at 6:45 pm. “Eating Animals” offers attainable, commonsense solutions to a growing crisis while making the case that ethical farming is not only an animal rights issue, but one that affects every aspect of our lives. A must for anyone who cares about building a humane and healthy world. The film was produced and narrated by Natalie Portman. Ashland Library, 410 Siskiyou Blvd, Ashland.

____ Wellness ____COMMUNITY COUNSELING CENTERThe Community Counseling Center offers low cost, sliding-scale, professional counseling for individuals, couples, adolescents, families and children. The CCC is located at 600 Siskiyou Blvd, Ashland. $40. Visit www.cccofashland.com or call 541-708-5436 for more information and to purchase tickets. The Phoenix Clubhouse, 310 N Main St, Phoenix.

AWARENESS THROUGH MOVEMENT WEEKLY FELDENKRAIS CLASSWednesdays from 10 – 11:30 am. Feldenkrais is a method that shows you how to move through the field of gravity in ways that use it to your advantage. Most people have an adversarial relationship with gravity, but it can ground you if you know how to use it. This not only reduces wear and tear on joints, reducing pain; it also improves focus and learning. When you are comfortable in your body, learning is easy, inspiration is spontaneous and creativity abounds. $15 Drop-in, $50 per month, first class free. Feldenkrais Studio Jacksonville, 235 Main St, Jacksonville.

BEING WITH LIFE AND DEATHSaturdays April 6 through May 11 from 1 – 4 pm. Join the us for this workshop series exploring aging, illness, death and bereavement through the lens of giving and receiving. Explore how to support each other’s life experience. Be inspired through interactive workshops including community dialogues, personal exploration, expert guest speakers and local resources. $15-50. For more information and to register call (541) 414-3181 or go to compassionatecommunity.com.

AWARENESS THROUGH MOVEMENT WEEKLY FELDENKRAIS CLASSWednesdays from 10 – 11:30 am. Unwind Your Spine! Mindful moves to regain lost mobility. We’ve all been brainwashed to believe decrepitude in inevitable after 50. It’s not true. Do not buy into the lie! Learned resilience for flexibility in mind and body. $15-50. Learn more info at www.gabriellepullen.info. Feldenkrais Studio, 235 W. Main St.. Jacksonville.

your child’s first den tal

visi t should be by t heir first

birt hday

Specialists in Pediat ric Den t ist ry

Pamela J. Ortiz, DDS, PC541-773-2625

www.grins4kidz.com

691 Murphy Rd. , Ste 210Medford, OR 97504

PO Box 1086Grants Pass, OR 97528

jococulturalcoalition.org

[email protected]


Beacon of Light KSKQ FM Gives Power Back to the PublicBY CATHERINE KELLEY

SOUND

In this era of parroted programming and ad interruptions, community-powered KSKQ Radio (89.5 FM and 94.1 FM) is media for the people, by the people, giving listeners a breath of fresh airwaves. “The radio station is totally community run, and holds the same non-commercial educational (NCE) license as JPR (Jefferson Public Radio),” says KSKQ Management Committee Chairperson, Connie Saldana. “It’s independent media, which is a critical cornerstone of democracy, and in community radio the public has access to the airwaves without being controlled by corporate interests.” Through a concerted effort by local, community-radio advocates and several sponsor organizations, including the Multicultural Association of Southern Oregon, an application to the Federal Communications Commission to create a low-power radio station was completed and in 2005, after nearly five years, the application was approved. “We got this letter that said ‘you can build a radio station’,” laughed Saldana, who is a board member for the Multicultural Association. “We didn’t have anybody left on the board that really knew how to do that but there was this wonderful group of citizens who were very enthusiastic about community radio that really helped make it happen.” “We’re a hyper-local, independent station that’s entirely volunteer-run, with no full-time paid employees or federal funding,” she adds. “The station is definitely proactive in the area of free speech and the only station around that plays a variety of alternative news and information shows.” Local programs include Laura Ferguson’s “Honey Culture Radio,” a program dedicated to the honeybee and natural beekeeping, which has a loyal following of listeners as far away as Australia, while David Munson’s “Farm Talk” now airs to an audience of listeners across the US. “Concentrated civics for all the true patriots and an alternative to Prozac” describes Jason Houk’s “Whistling in the Dark” radio show, a mix of folk music, interviews and discussions around the not-so-bright topics-of-the-day,

flavored with a bit of humor. “Local Smoke” with Roo Grostein covers everything cannabis-related and Saldana’s “Age of Adventure—the Positive Side of Growing Older” focuses on topics like successful retirement, brain health and people with interesting careers or travels. Programming Director Shiloh O’Connor is excited by the wide variety of music offerings, opinion and lifestyle shows created by the local community, as well as the station’s offerings of popular syndicated programs like the award-winning “This Way Out,” an international show focused on LGBT issues and topics, and “WINGS,” an all-female production delivering international news and issues affecting women.The lack of access to the award-winning “Democracy Now” program fueled residents’ desire to start their own independent radio station. Once able to air syndicates, KSKQ added several more, including “Peace Talks Radio” with Paul Ingles and Susan Kryder, “Big Picture Science” highlighting new innovations and scientific discoveries and “Whittler’s Corner Show” with pioneer music and stories of the American West. “It’s what kind of groomed KSKQ in the first place,” says O’Connor. “It’s an underground, hipster, specialty radio station, the kind that would only work in a college town like Ashland.” KSKQ will host keynote speakers Mickey Huff and Cian Westmoreland during Ashland’s Annual Independent Media Week (April 26—May 2). Huff, a professor of social science and history at Diablo Valley College in San Francisco is the director of Project Censored, a hub for independent investigative journalism and Westmoreland is a whistleblower who operated drones at the Mexico border. “The Multicultural Association’s mission is to help reduce racism and find ways to create understanding between different groups, so the radio station fits perfectly with that,” adds Saldana. “Community radio is a rare resource and a mission-driven station is very relevant in this day-and-age. Full programming schedule at kskq.org.

SCREEN

The Vinh Diagram between comic books and feature film fanatics must have a good deal of overlap. Just consider the success of Marvel. But also consider the number of zombie, vampire, Tank Girl and Wimpy Kid movies—and their inspirations. Local filmmaker Ray Robison seems to have a foot firmly in that interlocked interest. Tucked into his long list of film accomplishments are two vampire movies and a couple productions at Medford Comic Con, including leading a mad-dash 24-hour film production this year, as well as screening last year’s production “Mystic Onions” at 6 pm, Saturday April 24 at the Medford Library. To get a bit more information about Robison’s origin story, we recently caught up with the local filmmaker. Rogue Valley Messenger: What are you filming during this year’s Comic Con? Ray Robinson: We are shooting a short film written by SOU senior Sophia Miller specifically for this MCC2019 project. Not to give the plot away, but it is but the story revolves around role-playing games. Some of it will be shot in Hawthorne Park and along the Bear Creek Bike Path and the rest in the Medford Library. This year we are going in with a script already written and will edit the footage later, so only the actually production (hair, makeup, rehearsal, filming) will occur within a 24 hour period. RVM: You seem to be drawn to 24 hour film production challenges. Is that fair to say? What is interesting about those for you? RR: I’ve been a filmmaker for many years (okay decades even) and believe there is always something new to be learned and challenges to be discovered. Making a film in 24 hours can be quite exciting plus you end up with a completed film at the end of the process. Sometimes when you don’t have a time limit on a production it can be very difficult to “lock picture” because you continually perceive possible improvements that can be made—otherwise you may never allow yourself to finish. I, of course, make a lot of films that aren’t made in 24 hours but know that with any film at some point it has to have a deadline even if it is self-imposed. RVM: I don’t want to pigeonhole you, but you have directed a couple of vampire movies. What’s the appeal of vampire movies, say, compared to zombie films? RR: I don’t think I’ve really pigeonholed myself because of the range of films I’ve done; drama, film noir, comedy. I know there could be a big debate on which is better: vampires or zombies. But it is really a matter of which do I

prefer. I do find that vampires are more interesting. What they are seem to represent my perspective and interests more. Vampires are creatures who think deep thoughts and can suffer emotionally. Vampires can be erotic and can exhibit passion, even if that passion is for blood. RVM: What has been the benefit of living/working in southern Oregon, as opposed to being a filmmaker in LA or NYC? RR: I don’t think it is a filmmaking benefit that keeps me in Southern Oregon. It is more the lifestyle and pace of living here that I enjoy. There really isn’t a definite benefit or disadvantage to my kind of independent filmmaking when living in this area over living in a large metropolitan area. What I need for what I do are tools (cameras, lighting gear, etc.) and talented, passionate crews. I definitely find both those here in Southern Oregon. I never tell young filmmakers that Southern Oregon has just as many opportunities as NYC or LA. It really depends on their goals personally and professionally. Ultimately I believe that my decision to not live in LA was the better choice for me. It has been difficult at times. I recall several years ago watching the Oscars and seeing someone who sat with me in most of my Film classes make his acceptance speech and I of course had to wonder what life would have been like if I’d have moved to LA.

Summer Colds is the newest project helmed by Ashland based singer/songwriter Nick McNamara. After spending the better part of 2018 making a name for themselves through playing shows around southern Oregon, they have finally delivered their debut album, Here Comes Nothing. The record starts out with “Low,” a slacker-anthem about depression and partying. McNamara sings: “I’m drinking desert rose, ’til the bars all but close, and I’m running out to throw up in the snow again.” Emotionally revealing lyrics are juxtaposed against McNamara’s relaxed, metered vocals to great effect. The record continues with the short-but-sweet “Found” detailing a complicated relationship between two people. The third track on Here Comes Nothing titled “Whiteout” makes great use of McNamara’s lyrical abilities, but perhaps in an unconventional way. McNamara has a way of stringing together phrases in a way that perhaps obscures their literal meaning, but elevates the actual sound of them. Take for example some of the first lyrics in “Whiteout”: “when that growin’ is, knowin’ is, goin’ without again, I would rather go out in a blow out of my doubt again”. When sung, there is an undeniable catchiness to these words that helps to cement McNamara’s place as one of the best pop songwriters in southern Oregon. Another standout track on Here Comes Nothing is “Killing Flies.” McNamara sings: “I used to say hello to you, now I just walk on by, you used to say hello to me too, now I just wanna die.” Lyrics like this speak to the moments in life few people talk about but everyone experiences. The album continues on into “Sober October”, a track that continues some of the lyrical themes put forth at the beginning of the record. Here Comes Nothing feels like it exists in two pieces. The first, a recounting of party experiences with friends; the second, the fallout of those experiences. With an album under their belts and an ever-increasing local fanbase, Summer Colds seem poised for a real break-out year. They have the songs, as well as the charm.

Stream Here Comes Nothing via Soundcloud (out on May 3rd)https://soundcloud.com/summercolds

Rogue SoundsSneezing Along to the Beat Here Comes Nothing by Summer Colds BY JOSH STIRM

An Interview With A Vampire FilmmakerLocal filmmaker Ray Robison leads a 24-Production at this year’s Comic Con INTERVIEW BY PHIL BUSSE

HOST, WES BRAIN INTERVIEWING MICKEY HUFF OF PROJECT CENSORED.CREDIT: JASON HOUK

DP JASON MCMURRY REVIEWS A SHOT WITH PRODUCER/CO-DIRECTOR RAY NOMOTO ROBISON SUBMITTED BY RAY ROBISON


What do you do in an untenable situation when you must make impossible choices under the worst circumstances? Well, pick up a Fender Stratocaster electric guitar and sing and play your soul out, of course! That is what the main character and storyteller, Chum, of Oregon Shakespeare Festival’s Cambodian Rock Band (playing through October 27) does. But like any story about a rock star, there are others trying to grab the spotlight and be the front man. Then, there are bandmates and family who get caught up in the drama too. Duch, narrator and master of ceremonies, also has a story to tell about not sleeping. What keeps you up at night? Loud music, pain from an old wound, overwhelming emotions like guilt or shame, loss of friends, anxiety about the math teacher who makes you show your work or worse—the dark night of your soul? The OSF production of Cambodian Rock Band has all these expertly layered into a show that is part

concert, part “rockumentary” and totally engrossing. A production that beautifully juxtaposes music with storytelling in a way that is simultaneously surreal and opium-den smooth. “Music is the soul of the nation,” Norodom Siahanouk, former King of Cambodia, said. This statement speaks loudly when it is about a nation that was overthrown in a 1970 coup, had two million of its people murdered, and a portion of musical history almost entirely erased. Inspired by an actual compilation CD consisting of 22 songs from the late 60’s and early 70’s and produced in 1996 called Cambodian Rocks, OSF vibrates the Thomas Theater. The production includes renditions of these songs and a portrayal of the band, Dengue Fever, a California group who brought these songs back to life on stage. The play also uses elements and facts from the documentary, “Don’t Think I’ve Forgotten,” about Cambodia’s lost rock and roll to create a masterfully engrossing two-and-a half hours. It’s a shit storm

worse than what actual Dengue Fever would bring on with humor for relief and fantastic acting. There are always genius twists and turns with OSF and Cambodian Rock Band is no exception. The playwright, Lauren Yee, and OSF humanize a villain and make him likable and funny. Daisuke Tsuji plays the role of Duch in the performance reviewed, and was gripping. And, Joe Ngo who portrays Chum pulls off transitions in age, facial expression, mannerisms, tone and style with exquisite precision. And because he can do this, the emotions and story unfold in a way that make one so involved in the father daughter relationship that no matter if you are a father or daughter or have one or the other, you invest in the emotions and outcomes. The talented two women, Brooke Ishibashi and Jane Lui, sing their hearts out and do it tonally and skillfully. I particularly liked the song, “Family Business” because of its timing in the show, gut-wrenching emotion and soulful sound. Moses Villarama is convincing and has the dubious role of playing Ted Leng, a man who finds that compromise is compromising. Even intermission was well-timed, so one could sort out all the historical and cultural references and then go back in and be engrossed some more. Big praise for the set design too. It seems that Director, Bill Rauch, has done it again with a wonderful adaptation and apropos selection in Cambodian Rock Band.

CULTUREPart Concert, Park Rockumentary Cambodian Rock Band Gives Voice and Sound to Those Almost ForgottenBY VANESSA NEWMAN

CAMBODIAN ROCK BANDThrough October 27

Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Thomas Theatre, 15 S. Pioneer Street, Ashland

$46 – $123

Have you ever heard of an urban winery? I hadn’t. Perhaps living in Southern Oregon’s inundated winery scene has biased my view of what winemaking looks like. I assumed that every vineyard also has the means for producing wine onsite. Clearly, that’s not quite the case. Urban Cork and Pallet Wine Co. in Medford—connected by business and building—is an urban winery that’s responsible for the production of over 30 Oregon Wines, including many locals. They pump out a staggering 40,000 cases of bottles a year. Linda Donovan, part owner and operator, gave me a behind the scenes tour of their entire operation. I’m quite familiar with brewing process when it comes to ciders or beers, but wine was a complete mystery to me; it was a real treat to see how everything was done. The space is huge, with hundreds of wine barrels stacked from floor to ceiling aging wines for as long as three years. They use grapes sourced from vineyards like Dana Campbell Vineyards and Grizzly Peak Winery, as well as nearly a dozen other local spots. Grapes are hand sorted, separated and smashed and fermented then placed in a wine barrel and

moved to a corner of the building to wait for the magic to happen. There’s so much going on, and it’s just right under our noses. But how does Drink Local come into play? Like I said, they feature over 30 Oregon wines. Their wine flight changes every two days, meaning every time you go in, you can try a different set of wines. Wine flights and vineyards, of course, only feature their own wines. There is seldom an opportunity to try so many vineyards in one place. Want to try Schutlz Vinyards’ 2011 Merlot against Merrill Cellars’ 2013 Tempranillo? You can do that there, and not have to buy two bottles. They also offer an impressive charcuterie plate,

as well as beer and ciders (if you want to bring any non-wino friends). They do live music every other weekend, and are available for private parties. Their space is lovely, and I can imagine it’d be wonderful for nearly any event, professional, casual or otherwise.

By the BarrelUrban Cork in MedfordBY NICK BLAKESLEE

DR

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Loca

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THE URBAN CORK1 – 7 pm, Thursday - Sunday

330 N Fir St, Medford541-500-8778

CREDIT: LINDA DONOVAN

FOOD & DrinkFocusing on FidoYummy Pet Eats and Treats in the Rogue ValleyBY VANESSA NEWMAN

You know why we paw our dog bowls and flip them over or vomit on the new carpet? Because humans get bored and change what we eat often. Us dogs like meat and bones, and that’s the truth. How hard is it figure us out? Eat. Play. Poop. Repeat. Keep it simple and we will be happy; playing during the day instead of waiting until you’re laying down to lick your face while funny noises come out of your head, mostly. Well, guess what Fido—for us humans, it gets complicated figuring out what to feed our dogs for a decent price that won’t mean more preparation and cleanup. And for cats, that is even more complicated. With all the pet food being recalled for serious consequences, we are afraid to feed you anything we do not make ourselves. Luckily, if you live in the Rogue Valley, there are good options. The Butcher Shop in Eagle Point offers homemade dog food at about $2 per pound. This kibble is chock-full of local beef, lamb, elk and buffalo (from South Dakota), beef heart, fat and triple-ground pulverized bone. They use whole muscle meat that is grass-fed without hormones ground to just the right size and consistency so dogs can exercise their jaw muscles. Dog owners can choose from 4-meat or 5-meat options. Check out their video online which shows how the chow is made (butchershopinc.com). You can also watch a video about

how they create their dog treats. Kristi’s Natural Pet Food is another alternative for dogs and cats specializing in frozen, raw, all natural, grain-free cat and dog foods consisting of high quality, human-grade ingredients including USDA-certified meats, organic fruit and vegetables and herbs and supplements. Owner, Tracy Higgs, says, “The meat we use is carefully sourced, local whenever possible, raised with no hormones, antibiotics or growth hormones and come from farms that use sustainable, humane practices. Our food is made in small batches, by hand, which ensures top quality consistency. We use a holistic approach to provide the best life possible for pets with natural ingredients, nutrition, care and love.” When asked about all the dangerous pet food recalls, Higgs advice was: “It is difficult these days to find companies and brand names you can fully trust. That is why we advise individuals to source pet food that is not highly processed, but one that is made with wholesome, simple ingredients with no fillers, no chemicals or additives and diets that consist of all natural or organic meat and organic ingredients if possible. We encourage people to seek diets that mimic a whole prey diet, and truly believe raw natural diets are the absolute best way to go.” If you choose to use Kristi’s Natural Pet Food as your only source of pet

food that you can e x p e c t to spend $45 to $75 a month for an average-s i z e d cat and anywhere f r o m $140 to $200 for a medium sized dog. Clear signs that your canine and felines friends are getting the proper nutrition are healthier coats and skin, fewer allergies and more energy. Proper nutrition is the cornerstone of health for our furry friends, and Ben Bellison of Waggedy also suggests supplements for health enhancement. Started in 2016 and based in Ashland, Waggedy formulates and manufactures vitamins and supplements for dogs only. When asked why not for cats too, Bellison explained it has to do with palatability. In other words, cats are finicky and even the best-made supplements will only be tolerated by felines 65% of the time at best. To create supplements, Bellison works with vets and canine expert academicians from places like Colorado State and OSU to develop formulations

for common concerns such as hip and joint issues (inflammation-based solutions), anxiety or multivitamins for general health. Bellison believes, “Product success is based on being true to what you do and selling a quality product.” He is a member of the National Animal Supplement Council and is coming out with a product that includes hemp and CBD. “We exist to keep dogs happy and healthy as long as possible.”

THE BUTCHER SHOP [email protected]

KRISTI’S NATURAL PET FOOD541-295-8095

kristisnaturalpetfood.com

WAGGEDY waggedy.com

BELLISON OF WAGGEDY AND HIS DOG, NELSON CREDIT: BEN BELLISON

Comics can be both about the creator and the audience—and, at this year’s Medford Comic Con, people will have the opportunity to create their very own cartoon. Curt Evans’ workshop, “Anyone Can Draw Cartoons,” are geared to instill confidence, creativity, and fun. “Since I work with lots of skill levels, I emphasize shapes, creativity, and try to convince people not to worry about their work,” he says. “Cartoons are supposed be fun and entertaining, so being goofy is encouraged.” He especially hopes to give kids confidence in their creativity so they can create what they want without any insecurities. Those who attend the workshop will be provided copious amounts of paper and pencils and he’ll demonstrate his own cartoons on a dry erase board. “I focus on the theme that cartoons are basically symbols, and how to get audiences to understand what you’re drawing,” he explains. “I also explain the parallel between cartooning and moviemaking, and then I have everybody do the final drawing on their own using the things we talked about, and coming up with their own character.” Evans’ passion for motocross as a teenager was put on hold when an injury kept him from riding. While he was kept from his favorite sport, he turned to drawing cartoons for a local motocross newspaper. He says, “Once I started seeing my work published and started getting paid, I was hooked.” He’s been influenced by classic comics throughout his life, like Far Side, Calvin and Hobbes, Charlie

Brown, and Motocross Cat. While doing cartoons hasn’t become a full-time job for him, he’s always had fun creating and having his work published. “I guess the best thing about cartoons in the community is you have the opportunity to make people laugh,” he says. “Cartoons have the ability to change social ideas and people’s opinions. They can be very powerful to express your views on political and current events.” More than anything, he wants people to leave his workshop with confidence in what they created, and to know one doesn’t need to be talented at are to create cartoons. He adds, “Most importantly, never be embarrassed about their artwork.”

Art WatchCartoons for EveryoneAnyone Can Draw Cartoons Workshop at Medford Comic ConBY JORDAN MARIE MCCAW

ANYONE CAN DRAW CARTOONS WORKSHOP12:30 pm, Sunday, April 28

Medford Comic Con, Medford Library, 205 S. Central Avenue, Medford

CAMBODIAN ROCK BAND (2019): JOE NGO (CHUM), ABRAHAM KIM (ROM), BROOKE ISHIBASHI (SOTHEA), JANE LUI (POU), MOSES VILLARAMA (LENG).

CREDIT: JENNY GRAHAM, OREGON SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL


Hundreds of athletes will burn rubber and splash through water to make a dash for the finish line at the annual Siskiyou Challenge Relay Race benefiting Rogue Valley Farm-to-School, a program giving a whole new meaning to the words “fast food.” “It originated a decade ago when teachers became more interested in having their students learn about farming and who their farmers were,” says the organization’s Executive Director, Sheila Carder. “A lot of our work is based in the schools so the race is a great way for businesses and the public to be involved in what we do.” The six-leg, multi-sport race on April 27 covers 46 miles over water, across hillsides and through Ashland city streets, pushing the endurance of participants in events like mountain biking, kayaking and running. The popular fundraiser helps the organization get healthier produce in the schools and provide hands-on school garden and farm education. “There’s a real problem with health, in general, in the United States and it’s becoming more focused around chronic illness stemming from poor nutrition,” says Carder. Schools receive funds from the USDA for students who qualify for free and reduced lunches and the Department of Defense’s computerized food system allows school food service providers an easy way to order supplies, most of which aren’t healthy, Carder says. “That food is corporately produced; it’s not locally grown and most of it is very highly processed. So what we’re doing is helping schools find ways of connecting with the local farmers, acting as a sort of benevolent broker because we know schools are so very busy.”Rogue Valley Farm-to-school program is

the regional education hub for Oregon’s Farm-to-school and School Garden Network. One of its main components is working with teachers at the start of the school year to develop a curriculum that utilizes the school garden like an outdoor classroom. “We’ve learned if kids can get out in a garden and learn how to grow and harvest food, they develop a positive association with healthy food,” Carder shares. But it’s more than just growing, picking and eating. When they’re not rallying schools together with the company that makes the lunches and local farmers, program volunteers also teach nutrition, lead fieldtrips and help build gardens at schools. “We do monthly tasting tables in the cafeterias where we bring in a new fruit or vegetable of the month, and work with the food service directors to feature that food on the lunch line,” she says. “We’re kind of weaving nutrition and garden education throughout the school year.” The organization is also the procurement hub for local farmers, helping support them in developing markets with schools and acquiring the necessary certifications.“Particularly in this region, we’ve got amazing producers, and schools are serving thousands of meals every week,” she says. “If we can connect the farmers to the schools it brings money into the local economy, supports our farmers and, of course, it’s great for the kids.” The race is the organization’s biggest fundraiser, bringing in over $35,000 for the program. Carder says as business’s involvement grew, so did their reasons for supporting the race. “They found that if they sponsored at the team level they could use it as a teambuilding exercise for their

employees; they’ll start training and then they’ll decide that they’re going to quit smoking, or they’ll work just to be healthier and feel the benefits,” she adds. The race starts at 8 am, beginning and ending at Science Works, with festivities from 10 am to 2 pm that will include a health and fitness and outdoor adventure expo, music by The Brothers Reed

(Maravel Road Steel Band at Lithia Park Swimming.

SPORTS & OutdoorA Day at The Races Supports a Day at the FarmThe Siskiyou Challenge Benefits the Farm-to-School ProgramNative Landscapes BY BY

CATHERINE KELLEY

SISKIYOU CHALLENGESaturday, April 27

Ashlandsiskiyouchallenge.org

THE STARTING LINE CREDIT: GRAHAM LEWIS

SUNDAY AFTERNOON’S SPONSORED TEAM, PINK LADIEZ IN COSTUME CREDIT: JAMES MONTES DE OCA

Achoo! [Sniffle]How to Avoid the Kleenex this Allergy SeasonBY DR. MARGARET PHILHOWER

For those of us with pollen allergies, the spring flowers look pretty, but curse us with sneezing, watery eyes, annoying sniffles and worsening asthma. The good news is there are many helpful natural prevention strategies and treatments to help reduce pollen reactivity by supporting the body rather than suppressing symptoms with anti-histamine medications. Obviously, avoiding pollen exposure is key. Change your clothing, shower and wash your hair after being outdoors so you don’t carry the pollen around with you all day. If you mow or do brush removal, wear a N95 mask and eye protection. Change your HVAC filter often. Dietary choices play a huge role. We can control what we eat, but not how much pollen is in the air. Any food allergies can also cause immune system overactivity, thus worsening environmental allergies. I recommend IgG, IgE and IgA blood testing or an elimination/ challenge diet to help figure out what your body is reacting to. Naturopathic physicians and other functional medicine providers are well versed in these and other methods of assessing food allergies. The 7 most common food allergens are eggs, dairy, gluten (wheat, etc.), sugar, peanuts, soy and corn. There are many herbs and nutrients

that help reduce the histamine release cascade that causes seasonal allergy symptoms. Stinging nettles aka Urtica dioica, Quercetin bioflavonoid and anti-oxidants like Vitamin C are well known and easy to find. Some lesser known herbs have shown to be even more effective in studies. One is Butterbur, Petasites sp., standardized to 8mg petasin extract two to three times daily. Guduchi, Tinospora cordifolia, at doses of 300mg three times daily is another. Natural remedies such as homeopathy, Bromelain, N-Acetyl cysteine (NAC) and apple cider vinegar are very helpful for aiding our organs of elimination and reducing inflammation and mucus. Sipping on 1 ounce of apple cider vinegar diluted in 4 ounce of water before meals is effective for many. NAC, 600-1200mg two to three times daily, is mucolytic, aids immune balance and liver detox pathways and may mildly reduce anxiety symptoms. Bromelain, the pineapple enzyme, reduces inflammation and helps stabilize histamine releasing mast cells. I usually recommend taking 500mg bromelain, 3 capsules twice daily, ideally and hour away from food. Some treatments are best started before the pollen hits. Immunotherapy in the form of over the counter allergy desensitization drops for your local

area or prescription low dose allergen immunotherapy (LDA) treatments can be game changers. LDA is different from traditional “allergy shots”, which focus on IgE antibody mediated neutralization. Allergy shots provide low dose tolerance, but are generally short acting and can’t be discontinued without return of symptoms. LDA involves activating T-suppressor cells, which have a half-life of about 60 days and thereby create a much longer lasting desensitization and avoidance is not as crucial. Raw honey (non-pasteurized and from a local source) is a delicious allergy treatment anyone over 1 year old can enjoy. Start early in the season with one teaspoon daily and work up to three. A study in the International Archives of Allergy and Immunology found that patients reported 60% less allergy symptoms and 70% fewer days with severe symptoms by using local honey over five months. By exposing yourself to tiny amounts of the pollen that you are allergic too through honey, your immune system becomes less sensitive to the allergen. Probiotics also help reduce immune reactivity through GI health as the majority of our immune system resides in the gut. Sometimes several of the above treatments are needed to reduce allergy

symptoms and everyone responds differently. I encourage you to make an appointment with a Naturopathic Physician or allergy savvy healthcare provider to help fine tune what will work best for you so you may breathe free and clear and enjoy the beauty of spring in Southern Oregon.

Dr. Margaret Philhower is a naturopathic doctor with a naturopathic family practice in Takilma next door to The Dome School and at The Bear Creek Naturopathic Medical Clinic located at 2612 E. Barnett Rd. in Medford. You can schedule an appointment in Takilma by calling 541-415-1549 or Medford by calling 541-770-5563 or visit her website at www.drmargaret.org.

WELLNESS

DR. MARGARET PHILHOWER


ANSWERS AT ROGUEVALLEYMESSENGER.COM

E’S HERE! GRID ONLY, THOUGH. - MATT JONES

©2019 Jonesin’ Crosswords ([email protected])

REC ROOMNO. 223 - EASYSUDOKU

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely. For many strategies, hints and tips, visit SudokuWiki.org

If you like Sudoku you’ll really like ‘Str8ts’ and other puzzles, Apps and books.

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FREE WILL ASTROLOGY Week of April 25

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Whether or not you believe in magic, magic believes in you right now. Will you take advantage of the fancy gifts it has to offer? I guess it’s possible that you’re not interested in seeing deeper into the secret hearts of those you care for. Maybe you’ll go “ho-hum” when shown how to recognize a half-hidden opportunity that could bring vitalizing changes. And you may think it’s not very practical to romance the fire and the water at the same time. But if you’re interested, all that good stuff will be available for you. P.S. To maximize the effects of the magic, believe in it.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): In 1815, the most ferocious volcanic eruption in human history exploded from Mount Tambora in what’s now known as Indonesia. It flung gas and ash all over the planet, causing weird weather for three years. Sunlight dimmed, temperatures plummeted, skies were tumultuous, and intense storms proliferated. Yet these conditions ignited the imagination of author Mary Shelley, inspiring her to write what was to become her most notable work, Frankenstein. I suspect that you, too, will ultimately generate at least one productive marvel in response to the unusual events of the coming weeks.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): For over 40 years, Cancerian musician Carlos Santana has made music that blends rock and roll with Latin and African rhythms. In the early years, his creations sold well, but by the mid-1980s his commercial success declined. For a decade, he floundered. His fortunes began to improve after a spectacular meditation session. Santana says he was contacted by the archangel Metatron, who told him how to generate material for a new album. The result was Supernatural, which sold 30 million copies and won nine Grammy Awards. I mention this, Cancerian, because I suspect that you could soon experience a more modest but still rousing variation of Santana’s visitation. Are you interested? If so, the next seven weeks will be a good time to seek it out—and be very receptive to its possibility.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): “Expergefactor” is an old English word that has fallen out of use. In its original sense, it meant something that wakes you up, like an alarm clock or thunderstorm or your partner’s snoring. But I want to revive “expergefactor” and expand its meaning. In its new version, it will refer to an exciting possibility or beloved goal that consistently motivates you to spring out of bed in the morning and get your day started. Your expergefactor could be an adventure you’re planning or a masterpiece you’re working on or a relationship that fills you with curiosity and enchantment. In my astrological opinion, the coming weeks will be an excellent time to identify and fine-tune an expergefactor that will serve you well for a long time.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): We live in a cultural moment when satire, sarcasm, cynicism, and irony are prized as supreme emblems of intelligence. If you say that you value sincerity and earnestness, you risk being considered naive and unsophisticated. Nevertheless, the current astrological omens suggest that you will generate good fortune for yourself in the coming weeks by making liberal use of sincerity and earnestness. So please try not to fall into the easy trap of relying on satire, sarcasm, cynicism, and irony to express yourself. As much as is practical, be kindly frank and compassionately truthful and empathetically genuine. (P.S. It’s a strategy that will serve your selfish aims quite well.)

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): “Most people don’t find their creativity,” mourned Libran author Truman Capote. “There are more unsung geniuses that don’t even know they have great talent.” If that describes you even a little bit, I’m happy to let you know that you’re close to stumbling upon events and insights that could change that. If you respond to the prompts of these unexpected openings, you will rouse a partially

dormant aspect of your genius, as well as a half-inert stash of creativity and a semi-latent cache of imaginativity.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Do you know the word “sfumato”? Its literal meaning in Italian is “smoked.” When used to describe a painting, it refers to blurred borders between objects or fuzzy transitions between areas of different colors. All the forms are soft and hazy. I bring this to your attention because I suspect the coming weeks will be a sfumato-like time for you. You may find it a challenge to make precise distinctions. Future and past may overlap, as well as beginnings and endings. That doesn’t have to be a problem as long as you’re willing to go with the amorphous flow. In fact, it could even be pleasurable and useful. You might be able to connect with influences from which you’ve previously been shut off. You could blend your energies together better with people who’ve been unavailable.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): “You have a right to experiment with your life,” declared author Anaïs Nin. I agree. You don’t necessarily have to be what you started out to be. You can change your mind about goals that you may at one time have thought were permanent. I suspect you could be at one of these pivot points right now, Sagittarius. Are there any experiments you’d like to try? If so, keep in mind this further counsel from Nin. It’s possible “you will make mistakes. And they are right, too.”

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You have one main task to accomplish in the coming weeks, Capricorn. It’ll be simple and natural if you devote yourself to it wholeheartedly. The only way it could

possibly become complicated and challenging is if you allow your focus to be diffused by less important matters. Ready for your assignment? It’s articulated in this poem by Rupi Kaur: “bloom beautifully / dangerously / loudly / bloom softly / however you need / just bloom.”

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): When the forces of the Roman empire occupied the British Isles from the years 43 to 410, they built 2,000 miles of

roads. Their methods were sophisticated. That’s why few new roads were built in England until the eighteenth century, and many of the same paths are still visible and available today. In this spirit, and in accordance with astrological omens, I recommend that you make good use of an old system or network in the coming weeks. This is one time when the past has blessings to offer the future.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): “I’m not enigmatic and intriguing enough,” writes a Piscean blogger named RiddleMaster. “I really must work harder. Maybe I’ll start wearing ankle-length black leather coats, billowing silk scarves imprinted with alchemical symbols, and wide-brimmed hats. I’ll listen to Cambodian folk songs and read rare books in ancient Sanskrit. When someone dares to speak to me, I’ll utter cryptic declarations like, ‘The prophecies will be fulfilled soon enough.’” I understand RiddleMaster’s feelings. You Pisceans need mystery almost as much as you need food. But I believe you should set aside that drive for a few weeks. The time has come for you to show the world who you are with crisp candor.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): In the U.S., the day after Thanksgiving typically features a spectacular shopping orgy. On “Black Friday,” stores sell their products at steep discounts and consumers spend their money extravagantly. But the creators of the game Cards Against Humanity have consistently satirized the tradition. In 2013, for example, they staged a Black Friday “anti-sale,” for which they raised their prices. The coming weeks will be a favorable time for you to try something similar. Is it possible you’re undercharging for your products and services and skills? If so, consider asking for more. Reassess your true worth and seek appropriate rewards.

Across 1 ___ out a living (got by) 5 KFC drumsticks, basically 9 Half a cartoon duo with a platypus 13 Matt’s “Wild Things” costar 14 Didn’t do it right 16 Actor Omar of “Almost Christmas” 17 Form an opinion 18 Pupil, in Paris 19 Handbook info 20 “Finding Dory” star 23 “Dr. Mario” and “Duck Hunt” platform 24 Quattro minus uno 25 School tasks using Scantrons 28 Big buy for suds 31 K-pop group with a 2019 Grammy nomination 33 “Lucky Man” prog rock trio, for short 34 “Tommy” song on day two of \ Woodstock 39 “___ Griffin’s Crosswords” (2007-2008 show) 41 Gallup poll finding 42 TV cook Paula 43 HOF Brooklyn shortstop with uniform no. 1 46 Physics unit of work 47 “Chicago” lyricist 48 Promgoing kids, for short 49 Poly finish 51 21___ (Shaq’s foot stat) 53 180∞ from WSW 54 Hashtag post that’s always apt 62 WWF’s “Hitman” Hart 63 War of 1812 pact city 64 Raison d’___ 65 “Wordplay” and “Simpsons” crossword guy with Will 66 Bob who did “Hollywood Nights” 67 Russo of “Tin Cup” 68 “Comp·s” point 69 In ___ (actually) 70 Toboggan

Down 1 Conclusion, in Koln 2 Boat bottom 3 Bus-jumping stunt cyclist, casually 4 Folk/country musician Iris 5 City not far from Kingston upon Hull 6 Oil tycoon Halliburton 7 “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” kid 8 Golf pro who won post-Fuzzy 9 Dug around, with “out” 10 Olympics sword 11 D&D and similar campaign pursuits 12 Flimflams, for short 15 Auto body flaw 21 Loch for cryptozoologists 22 Kathryn of “Oz” and “L&O: C.I.” 25 Mall Santa job or sub at work, say 26 Robt. ___ (Civil War fig.) 27 Buying outing 28 TV cook Graham and family 29 Abu Dhabi VIP (var.) 30 Mutation factors 32 Bad driving condition 35 July and August, to Balzac 36 Gps. that assist putting out conflagrations 37 Nothing but 38 RPI grad’s abbr. 40 Car also known as a Bug 44 Hairstylist known for cowboy hats 45 Throat doc that also works in ophthalmology 50 Conduits found in “TMNT” 52 Ovoids in a carton 53 ___ nous 54 “So ___ to you, Fuzzy-Wuzzy” (Kipling) 55 Not horiz. 56 Syngman ___ of 1950s Asian politics 57 Brain activity monitors 58 Suffix for carbon compounds, plural 59 Child star who was Damian in “Millions” 60 Grayish-brown aquatic bird 61 Angry, with “off” 62 MIT study topic including hospitals, diagnostics and MRIs

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9 8 7 4 2 3 1 5 65 2 1 6 8 7 9 3 44 6 3 5 1 9 2 7 87 4 5 8 3 1 6 9 22 3 9 7 6 4 5 8 16 1 8 9 5 2 7 4 33 7 6 2 9 8 4 1 51 5 4 3 7 6 8 2 98 9 2 1 4 5 3 6 7

SUDOKU

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org

If you like Sudoku you’ll really like ‘Str8ts’ and our other puzzles, Apps and books. Visit www.str8ts.com

The solutions will be published here in the next issue.

No. 223 Easy Previous solution - Very Hard

9 7 2 55 4 8 9

6 52 5 9

1 74 9 1

6 96 3 2 4

1 4 6 3

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019

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9 8 7 4 2 3 1 5 65 2 1 6 8 7 9 3 44 6 3 5 1 9 2 7 87 4 5 8 3 1 6 9 22 3 9 7 6 4 5 8 16 1 8 9 5 2 7 4 33 7 6 2 9 8 4 1 51 5 4 3 7 6 8 2 98 9 2 1 4 5 3 6 7

SUDOKU

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org

If you like Sudoku you’ll really like ‘Str8ts’ and our other puzzles, Apps and books. Visit www.str8ts.com

The solutions will be published here in the next issue.

No. 223 Easy Previous solution - Very Hard

[Editor: Here’s this week’s homework:]

Homework: Compose an exciting prayer in which you ask for something you’re not “supposed” to.

BY ROO GROSTEIN - HOST/PRODUCER OF LOCAL SMOKE RADIO ON KSKQ 89.5 FM ASHLAND & 94.1 FM MEDFORD

The State of Hemp & CBD When you search the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) database of Industrial Hemp Grower licenses, you find 1027 licenses registered with the state—probably more by the time you read this. There were 584 in 2018. That’s almost as many as Colorado. But we are surpassing Colorado’s hemp industry. We have a better climate and growing conditions. We have better growers. We have better processors and extractors. We have better hemp. Seriously. I went to the Champs expo in Las Vegas this year. What used to be a glass and accessories show, this year transformed largely into a hemp-CBD product showcase. I asked many vendors if they had heard of Oregon hemp. Those who were just infusing industrial CBD-isolate into every possible product that might attract a curious or unwitting consumer didn’t really seem to care about the source of their product. Most admitted that they didn’t know much other than it was sourced from Colorado. But several booths were ecstatic to meet somebody from the Oregon hemp industry. Usually it was those with well-branded products or with that “craft” feel and those with actual nugs of hemp flower for sale. Irrefutably, those in the know are seeking out the next level products we are putting out. The secret will be out soon: Oregon hemp is the sh$*! What about all the news lately about truck drivers getting arrested when they cross state lines carrying industrial hemp loads that are mistaken for THC-heavy cannabis? The 2018 Farm Bill requires the Department of Agriculture to create regulations that will oversee state hemp programs and states that “No State . . . shall prohibit the transportation or shipment of hemp or hemp products produced in accordance with subtitle G of the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 … through the State or territory.” At this point, the US Department of Agriculture hopes to have a plan formulated by fall 2019 to prep for planting in Spring of 2020. But federal courts in Idaho and West Virginia got to be the lucky precedent-setters addressing these unclear issues and they made inconsistent rulings regarding legal interstate movement of hemp and hemp-derived products. Representatives from across the country and political spectrum have sent letters demanding clarification. So where does that leave the actual hemp producers and product manufacturers? A recent study by High Yield Insights concluded 40 percent of U.S. adults are interested in trying CBD (cannabidiol). Many others already have. You can find CBD products (of varying sketchiness) at nearly every corner store. Walgreens, CVS and recently Rite-Aid all announced plans to carry CBD products in 2019, which former Food and Drug Administration commissioner Scott Gottlieb said is “not a good idea”. There is an FDA hearing scheduled for May 31st. He conceded, however, that currently FDA action is minimal. “We’re using enforcement discretion right now . . . I will take enforcement action against CBD products that are on the market if manufacturers are making what I consider over-the-line claims. . . that it can cure cancer or prevent Alzheimer’s disease” will be subject to enforcement action “because that can mislead a patient into forgoing otherwise effective therapy.” While the dust (pollen?) has not yet settled on hemp, it’s safe to say most of the powers-that-be seem to be acting “within the spirit of the law”, doing their best to expedite the process of making a full-blown industry where there wasn’t one before. For Southern Oregon and the rest of the state, I hope that means we are going to benefit from being leaders at the forefront of the world’s “newest” ancient industry.

24 / WWW.ROGUEVALLEYMESSENGER.COM

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