My View – June 2019

This summer, as you take in the ambiance and charm of Jacksonville, be sure and thank the countless volunteers that make this such a special town. A case in point is on the Brill Hill, where you’ll find the Britt Society Volunteers and others taking on all sorts of tasks that make the summer-long concert series possible. Without them, our beloved non-profit music festival would not exist.

Another place to find wonderful volunteers hard at work is in the hills just outside of Jacksonville. Our town is considered the “Hiking Capital of Southern Oregon,” a deserving title that’s the result of years of hard work. In his monthly series, “Sensational Seniors,” Mike McClain brings us the story of Tony Hess, Gary Sprague, Clayton Gillette and T.J. Murphy—a foursome that’s been working side-by-side for years to carve out a new trail system in the Forest Park that compliments the Jacksonville Woodlands trail system! To honor these fine volunteers, the Review is pleased to have them appear on our cover this month!

Another pack that deserves our thanks is the Waggin’ Tails Dog Park volunteer group, headed by Sarah Maple. When the dog park opens in mid-June, I expect it to be a hit with many dogs and their owners, all of whom will be most grateful fur a place to meet, play and make new friends.

As always, summer in Jacksonville offers numerous opportunities to soak-in Jacksonville’s history with trolley tours and history-themed presentations. In this issue, you’ll read about events at the cemetery and at the Beekman House and Beekman Bank. While visiting our local wineries, tasting rooms and restaurants, be sure and catch the upcoming Southern Oregon Lavender Trail tour, the annual Rat Race Paragliding Competition and much, much more.

I wish you the very best this summer and hope you’ll take a moment to thank the volunteers who make Jacksonville such a wonderful Small Town with Big Atmosphere!