Feb 24 Tuesday
Misinformation and disinformation are undermining our democracy. We need to know how to identify them. Join us to explore how we can do it. Thomas Jefferson summed up a critical element required of us in defense of our democracy: “An informed citizenry is at the heart of a dynamic democracy.” Recognizing and thwarting misinformation and disinformation are essential components in generating and maintaining an informed citizenry and defending our democracy. These are the scourge of credible journalism. Regrettably, increasingly the forces of darkness seek to overtake society with conspiracy hoaxes driven by misinformation and disinformation. They are often enabled by a citizenry seeking stories that appeal to their confirmation bias rather offer credible information that may challenge that bias.That we all need to be able to recognize misinformation and disinformation when it knocks on our door is clear. For those in the credible news arena, it’s even more important that misinformation and disinformation should be identified and given no quarter. Bert Etling, Executive Director of Ashland.news, will offer his perspectives on this troubling issue and share advice on how we can recognize this fraud when it appears.
Chris will share how ancient and traditional staple foods are increasingly being grown throughout the Rogue Valley, changing the direction of how locals think about farming and food.
Feb 25 Wednesday
GPHS Project Graduation 2026 is sponsoring the annual "Will-A-Thon" to raise money for a safe drug and alcohol free party for the Class of 2026. Participants will consult with one of the following volunteer attorneys to have a basic will, power of attorney, and advance directive prepared. Cost $300 Single, $350 Couple. All proceeds to to Project Graduation. Call Victory Walker for an appointment today. (541)285-7674. Appointments are February to early April (and are limited). A big thank you to our participating attorneys: Brett Claar, Eric Fournier, Dan Simcoe, Carl Clyde, Christopher Mecca, Gregory Day, Rebecca Peterson, Jaskamal Dhillon, Rachelle Selvig
Book sale will be held:
Friday, Feb. 20 from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PMSaturday, Feb. 21 from 9:00 AM - 2:00 PMMonday, Feb. 23 - Wednesday, Feb. 25 from 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Great selection of books at unbeatable prices!
We have a wide assortment of food available. Bags with staple items are pre-filled, but we will gladly add any special requests if they are available. When you visit, there is always a simple lunch. On the last Wednesday of every month, we serve a pretty darned good hot meal with salad and a huge table filled with pies and desserts. We call it a community lunch. All are welcomed.
Feb 26 Thursday
Feb 27 Friday
Feb 28 Saturday
Imagine your life without a smart phone—or for that matter any phone at all. What about no computer or internet connection? TV or radio? Time travel with Historic Jacksonville, Inc. back to 1900 for a “retro” tour of “Daily Life Then and Now: 1900 vs. 2026.” Guided 45-minute tours compare the differences in communication, fashion, etiquette, entertainment, chores, household “amenities,” and much more – things we take for granted like electricity, running water, and…bathrooms! Tours begin every 20-30 minutes between 12n and 3pm at the 1870s C.C. Beekman House, located at 470 E. California Street in Jacksonville, Oregon. Tour admission is $8 (cash or check at the door). You’ll find more information at https://historicjacksonville.org/then-and-now/. All proceeds go towards maintenance of Jacksonville’s historic buildings and the programs and events that bring them to life and make them relevant for people today.
All are welcome to enjoy a delightful evening of social dancing at the North Bayside Grange on Saturday, February 28th, from 6-8:30pm. Dance to great live music and skilled calling. This friendly community gathering is open to singles and couples. Join the fun at the Bay Area Family Contra Dance, featuring hours of congenial social dance. This monthly event is sponsored by the South Coast Folk Society. It’s a light-hearted community gathering appropriate for teens and adults. This event is free, and open to everyone age 12 up. New dancers are always welcome. No prior experience or partner is required at this alcohol- and fragrance-free event.
Contra Dancing is fun, and easy to learn, like an old-time barn dance. It’s a delightful way to socialize to beautiful, uplifting music. Come swing your partner and do-si-do to the foot-stomping music of Cliff’s Edge. Popular caller Karen Olsen will provide a lesson for new dancers at 6:00pm, and expert calling all evening. Wear casual clothes and comfortable shoes. Please join us on the dance floor, or relax and enjoy fine music.
Many thanks to the North Bayside Grange, a wonderful dance venue, for hosting the monthly Bay Area Family Contra Dances. The center is open to all ages and is located at 67577 E Bay Road, North Bend, just across the bridge, in Glasgow. Save the date. Doors open at 5:45, and a $5 donation would be much appreciated. There will be refreshments available all evening. Contact Paul at 541-404-8267 for more information, or visit southcoastfolksociety.com.