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OSF has drifted too far from its roots

The plea for donations from OSF does not bode well for tourist-dependent Ashland and Southern Oregon in general.

Those of us who watched the festival for many decades saw the organization prosper, partly thanks to a large and dedicated volunteer base and the plays of Shakespeare in rotation.

Then, success of OSF caused their board to attempt a theater presence in Portland, which did not set well with many locals and most Ashland volunteers in particular. For decades, Angus Bowmer’s creation prospered under the guidance of the Pattons and others, helping solidify Ashland’s reputation as the Shakespeare capital of the United States.

Brilliant interpretations of the Bard in the majority of presentations, and elegant period costuming combined to bring dedicated, repeat play-goers and their families. It is, after all, the Shakespearean festival.

Now we hear attendance has been dropping since pre-COVID, and the organization is financially unsound. The board has not spoken directly to the cause, nor have they revealed a business plan as a remedy.

There are those, and I am one, who suspect OSF has drifted so far from it’s roots that it is no longer a Shakespearean festival. How many of the Bard’s plays are scheduled in 2023? Two? Is the schedule one which attracts broad audiences, including families?

Achieving diversity and equity is a noble goal, but seeking that goal in defiance of indicators that the festival presentations are way off course is not the way to rebuild local confidence, solicit donations, or guarantee the future of the festival.

Don Skillman / Talent

City should be part of the solution on unhoused

A message to Brian Sjothun, Medford city manager, about the Medford library:

In the Rogue Valley Times, you were quoted today about the Medford Library, saying “The bottom line is that, if this was a private residence or another business, we would be issuing notifications to shut it down.”

Your statement offends me. I am a resident of Medford and was active on the committee to pass the bond measure to build the JCLS libraries across the county. I also am a patron of the Medford Library, visiting frequently.

I am 84 years old and a woman but, I have never felt threatened nor have I observed the outrageous behavior described in the article, during visits to the library. I often pass “unhoused citizens” of Medford.

There are rotten apples in every barrel. However, you are the city manager of this barrel, serving the entire community.

The city website lists the police livability team who reaches out to those on the Greenway and downtown. They are charged with working cooperatively with entities who are helping the unhoused.

Are they doing their job with your cooperation? Or can you not see from the perch on your high horse that this problem needs more support?

Our library, and many others across the country, are offering services to the “unhoused citizens.” Please be a part of the solution of unhoused citizens, rather than criticizing those trying to help.

Gayle Clason / Medford

Is commissioner putting political party before county?

I was disappointed to read Commissioner Dotterrer’s comments placating election deniers, regarding Jackson County voting machine accuracy.

After a recent visit with County Elections Clerk Chris Walker, I am more convinced than ever that she and her staff set the professional standard for holding elections.

I expect Dotterrer, a retired colonel, to place Jackson County before party, to show the leadership and selfless service he demonstrated in the Army, and to fully support the excellent County Elections staff.

Jim Buck / Eagle Point