111 Faces of Klamath Falls - Photography Project, Week 11

March 22, 2021 Joey Gentry-Smith

Happy Spring! Thanks for checking in!

Our next three subjects are Ireland, Dave, Tasha, and a bonus person…Layla!

Ireland is a recent acquaintance. Dave, Tasha, and Layla are strangers I met at the park, and they saved this week’s post from being just a one-subject week! I’m not being overly dramatic when I say that I was *this close* to giving up and only sharing Ireland’s photo for the week. It’s a challenge to find strangers who are up for letting another stranger photograph & “interview” them. I now know that I can’t let myself get in the position where I don’t have at least a subject or two lined up for the week.

Ireland - 31

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “Sunbathing!”

I share Ireland’s delight in sunbathing, especially in Klamath. Have you noticed the sun shines differently, more intensely here? There’s something pretty special the way the sun shines in Klamath Falls…when the sun shines down on your face and hits your cheeks, it can warm you to your center unlike anywhere else you’ve ever been. It’s an instantaneous mood-boosting, spirit-lifting, life-affirming warmth.

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “I’m resilient.”

Ireland has had to deal with some life-altering health issues, and it was only fairly recently that she finally received a diagnosis. She’s become resilient because she had to for her own well-being. She remains optimistic, and she knows her own personal life experiences will help her to help others in the future, but it’s been difficult at times. She’s young, ambitious, and she aspires to help others, but she acknowledged that at times, she’s felt discouraged by having to cope with so many health challenges at such a young age.

I’m hoping for the day to come when Ireland is well, and doesn’t have to be so strong & resilient.

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: Ireland envisions a new way of allocating how our federal tax dollars are used. She would like to see a system where we get to choose how to solve our societal problems, specific to the community where we live. “We vote with our tax dollars,” Ireland said, “taxes would be used democratically.” She imagines a system where federal tax dollars are directed back to the communities from which they came, and we, the taxpayer, get to specify how we want that revenue to be distributed. We would decide where we want our income tax to be allocated, whether it be toward environmental health, the military, border security, or anything we choose. Ireland wants us to be able to see our tax dollars at work in the communities where we live. It’s Ireland’s vision that a completely different system of tax revenue distribution would enable us to build the local communities that we desire, by being able to fund the programs that are important to us each individually, and locally.

I really wish I had used a recorder or voice recording app. I’m just barely scratching the surface of Ireland’s vision for a new tax system. We could have talked at length about her idea, and I hope I’m conveying it in such a way to do it proper justice.

Q: What’s your life’s dream/goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: Ireland’s goal is to become a Naturopathic Doctor. She’s currently a pre-med student and will attend naturopath school after she graduates in a couple months! “I’ll continue to broaden my understanding of health and continue to learn and grow,” Ireland said. “My dream is to have a successful career and to be well known for what I do, and help as many people as I can in life, with their health,” Ireland added.

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (personal legacy statement)

A: “I want to be remembered as someone really intelligent. I want to discover something groundbreaking…and if that doesn’t happen, that’s fine too.”

Ireland will soon be graduating and leaving Klamath Falls. It was important for me to include some OIT students in this project because Oregon Tech is such a critical & valuable part of our community. Wishing Ireland all the best of luck and success, and I can’t wait to read about your groundbreaking and life-improving, possibly life-saving, discovery someday.

Tasha (left) and her daughter Layla (right) - 32

I got a little teary-eyed after meeting this little gem of a human, Layla. I just wish you could see the way Layla passionately and whole-heartily wants for a better planet for us all. She gives me hope.

Tasha’s answers are immediately below, and then Layla’s answers will follow beneath.

Tasha’s answers:

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “Jesus.”

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “I’m about to get my GED!”

Congratulations, Tasha!

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: Tasha wants to be able to help kids, youth, and teens early so that they can make good choices.

Tasha is clean and sober today, and her life experience has inspired her to want to be able to reach our youth early in life, before they have problems or troubles, so that we can help to shape their paths to a bright and successful future.

Q: What’s your life’s dream/goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: “My goal is to help get people to heaven by spreading the news of God.”

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (personal legacy statement)

A: “I want to be remembered as a great evangelist.”

Layla’s answers:

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “Helping nature.”

Layla couldn’t contain her excitement as she went on to explain to me just how much she loves nature and animals!

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “I’m doing well in science. I’m a good science student. I’m in the 4th grade, and I love science.”

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: For the problem of littering, which impacts fish, wildlife, water and the environment, Layla said, “the solution to help parks is a law requiring you to throw your garbage away when you go to the beach or park.” Layla added, “I just want to make the world better. Nature is beautiful.”

(We wouldn’t need litter laws if we could just be a little more like Layla. )

Q: What’s your life’s dream/goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: “My goal is to become a forest ranger or something that helps nature. Nature was given to us and we need to take care of it.”

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (personal legacy statement)

A: “I want to be remembered as a person who helped everyone and helped nature,” Layla answered, “and I want to bring peace.” Layla also added, “I don’t want things to be bad. I miss how the world used to be when it was kind and sweet.”

Same, Layla. Same.

Wow! This young lady is out to do big things for us all. Good things.

Tasha and Layla, thank you. Best wishes for your bright futures. (and ours.)

Dave - 33

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “I’m a Christian…I love nature and everything the Lord made.”

Dave added that he’s a farmer and a gardener and he loves to work the ground and work with plants.”

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “I love good things, I like righteousness, peace, rest, and truth.”

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: My note-taking was slower than Dave spoke, but I hope I’ve adequately summed up his answer. Dave sees many problems in the world such as abuse of powers, inhumane treatment of people, and millions living in poverty. He sees the solution as being when the Lord returns to end it.

Q: What’s your life’s dream/goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: Dave answered that he has no earthly dreams, and added, “my dream is to go to heaven.”

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (personal legacy statement)

A: “I don’t have a plan on being remembered, I don’t plan on coming to an end.”

Thank you Ireland, Tasha, Layla, and Dave!

And thank you for following along for another week!

111 Faces of Klamath Falls - Photography Project, Week 8

March 1, 2021 Joey Gentry-Smith

Hello!

Thanks for stopping by to check out week 8 of “111 Faces of Klamath Falls.”

Lena - 22

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “My family!”

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “Being known for my beadwork.”

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: “Healthy living is the solution to dealing with pain.” Lena went on to explain that whether it’s physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual pain, we can help heal ourselves through healthy eating, exercise and self care.

Q: What’s your life’s dream/goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: “I want to continue to help my people.”

Lena feels blessed to work for the Tribe. “The more I can do for my people, the more I can help my community, Lena added.

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (personal legacy statement)

A: “I want to be remembered for the help I’ve given to people.”

Cassandra - 23

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “My family….watching my kids grow up to be young men, and seeing them succeed.”

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “I think that I’m one of the most forgiving people ever. Someone can treat me wrong and I’ll still forgive them,” Cassandra said. “I’m ridiculously loving and forgiving to a fault,” she added. Cassandra went on to explain that no matter how poorly someone has treated her or wronged her, she won’t allow herself to hate them. “We can’t have hate for them or we’ll become hateful, she said. Cassandra summarized, “I’m Bob Marley trapped in a woman’s body…just spread love.”

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: Cassandra identified a problem that we have in smaller rural towns is that we don’t have enough organizations, groups, and clubs that will help our youth. She would like to see more youth organizations and services that will help fill the gaps for single parents, or families where both parents are working or absent for whatever reason. She envisions a program or organization that not only provides recreational activities and fun, but is also a source of life skills.

Q: What’s your life’s dream/goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: “My dream job is to work with youth who are struggling with life, but I’m not anywhere close to that yet.” Cassandra explained that right now, her focus is on providing for her family, raising her kids, and giving them a good life. After her kids are grown, then she’ll focus on herself and a new career.

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (personal legacy statement)

A: “I want to be remembered as the woman who never gave up. No matter what obstacle comes my way, I always seem to overcome it…usually alone.” Cassandra added, “I’m strong and independent, but also I’m the person who would give you the shirt off my back if you’re cold.”

I know this to be true. Cassandra is as solid as they come.

Phyllis - 24

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “Kayaking!”

It took all my self-restraint not to invite myself to become Phyllis’ new kayaking buddy. (At least a time or two!)

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “I was a great Mom, and I’m an incredible Grandma!”

Phyllis has 4 kids and a dozen grandkids!

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: “The biggest problem in society today is division amongst Americans. If we could agree that we are all Americans, and that we all love America, it would go a long way toward healing the divide.” Phyllis added, “we’re all Americans no matter if you’re right or left.”

Q: What’s your life’s dream/goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: Phyllis’ goal right now is retirement. Working at Ross Ragland now, is helping her cross that finish line. She’s eager to retire so she can spend more time with her Grandkids, her dogs, and of course…she’ll spend more time kayaking!

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (personal legacy statement)

A: “I would like to be remembered as someone who actively served our community…anything community oriented, I’m usually involved.” Phyllis likes to help and serve in any capacity she can, whether it’s volunteering, fundraisers, or even just as a participant in community events. Phyllis was the president of the Blues Society for a while, and has been active in the music scene for years. In addition to her community service, Phyllis added that she want’s to be remembered “for being a Mom and Grandma, and raising my kids to be good citizens…all my kids are awesome!”

Lena, Cassandra, and Phyllis - thank you for being in the project!

Just a quick realization I want to share with you…

I found myself getting annoyed with all the filters on Instagram and TikTok the other day. When I process photos, I tend to keep things quite minimal and as close to real life as possible. I mainly only adjust or correct for: crop, white balance, tone, exposure, contrast, and sometimes minor color saturation adjustments. (unless working in B&W which I love, and don’t look closely, but I also used a spot edit tool in this post.) When I deliberately try to process a photo to look more “filtered” or “Instagram-y,” or to match this current “aesthetic” of our time, I always end up reverting back to the more organic version of the photo. I love other photographer’s images that have that certain aesthetic, but I just can’t seem to embrace it for my own images. That’s just my style, I suppose. My style is not having a style, except for trying to capture a subject’s sparkle as authentically as possible. It’s a little funny when I think about it now, but I was actually getting pretty frustrated the other day as I was processing one subject’s photos. I really wanted to experiment and achieve the “instagram-y/filtered/modern aesthetic, but I just couldn’t accept it. It looked and felt wrong to me. I caught myself saying out loud in frustration, “LIFE ISN’T FILTERED!!!”

The thought that ‘life isn’t filtered’ stuck with me for a while. I was so wrong! LIFE IS FILTERED and it should be. WE ARE FILTERED!

We can live with a filter of gratitude. We can live with a filter of delight. We can filter with the assumption of good intent of others. We can live with a filter of hope and optimism. We can live with a filter of empathy and compassion. We can live with a filter of forgiveness. We can live with a filter of appreciation and wonderment. We can live with a filter of tolerance and understanding. We can live with a filter of patience. We can live with a filter of love.

Ok. Let’s layer on those filters...

111 Faces of Klamath Falls - Photography Project, Week 7

February 22, 2021 Joey Gentry-Smith

Hi!

The next three subjects of “111 Faces of Klamath Falls” are Emma, Sarah, and Ashanti.

Meet Emma. There’s nothing I can tell you about Emma that she can’t say 5000 times better in her own words, writings, and works. I’m not slacking here…this is the truth! I’ll share some links - please check them out! This is an incredible woman who does incredible things, and I just really want you to get to know Emma and her environmental and social justice work. She has a TED TALK ! See what I mean - it’s much more direct and effective just to check Emma’s work for yourself.) Check out her TED video and you’ll begin to look for, and see that, nature is everywhere. Solutions are all around us.

Emma - 19

I first learned of Emma a few years ago when I listened to a random podcast on which she was the guest. I was happy to hear someone from Klamath Falls and began to follow her on twitter. I didn’t know at that time that our paths would intersect. Emma is a member of the Equity Task Force, and I’m honored for the opportunity to work with her. Emma is an indefatigable social justice warrior and ally. (Emma, thank you. Sincerely.) I intended to share that first podcast interview with you, but when searching to see if I could locate that episode, I discovered that she’s been interviewed on several podcasts. Search for Emma Marris on whatever podcast app you use and be prepared to be enlightened about nature and our planet, and our responsibility to it, and for it. Emma’s ability to communicate complex ideas is admirable and impressive. Emma is able to organize thoughts, ideas, and information, and present it to even the most unwilling of recipients with just enough softness for the message to be heard, but also with logic and data so that the message is irrefutable. She’s convincing. She’s persuasive. She’s powerful.

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “Music really brings me delight.”

Emma grew up in Seattle in the 90’s. She joked that her Seattle upbringing tends to make her a bit of a music snob, but she’s been finding delight in her kids’ top 40/pop music since coronavirus. (Is this a thing? Since COVID, I’ve been finding myself, uncharacteristically, listening to top 40/pop too!.)

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment.)

A: “Great is a high bar,” Emma prefaced, “I guess I would say that I don’t settle for stuff. I want things to get better in my life and in the world.”

Again, these aren’t just words. Emma lives it in every way imaginable.

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: For the problem of climate change, Emma’s solution is for us “to demand change!” “It’s not too late. We get organized and demand big changes,” Emma instructed. She cautioned that we can’t allow ourselves to feel so guilty about our own personal footprint that it paralyzes us and prevents us from making the real changes needed, which are so much bigger than our own personal footprint.

Emma also offered a solution for a smaller problem, “Everybody in America needs to learn how to cook fried rice and stop throwing out their take-out white rice.”

Q: What is your life’s dream/goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: “I just want people to say, ‘She did her best…she tried.’” Emma added that she’s working on not letting herself get too overwhelmed because her desire to always want to improve things extends to her entire life. “I’m going to keep trying to make things better,” Emma said.

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (Personal Legacy Statement.)

A: Emma wants to be remembered for her work. “I’ve written one book, and a new book is coming out this summer. Writers want their work to live on forever.”

Congratulations on your second book, Emma! Click here to pre-order Emma’s second book, “Wild Souls”

Learn more about Emma here on her website!

Sarah - 20

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “Mt. Shasta!”

Sarah grew up near the ocean for most of her life. She liked being so close to something as vast as the Pacific because it forces some perspective. “The ocean keeps us in scale,” Sarah explained. The view of Mt. Shasta provides her with that reminder now that she lives here.

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment.)

A: “I’m optimistic!” (“Or maybe hopeful,” Sarah added.)

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: “I don’t have a solution, no. I’m just a cog in the gears.” A problem that was on Sarah’s mind the morning we met is how we assign categories or labels to people, and how much better we could be if we just identified “people” as “people” instead labeling or categorizing.

Q: What is your life’s dream/goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: “To be part of something that makes others’ lives easier.”

Again, these aren’t just fluffy words. Sarah lives it! I’ve observed Sarah’s kindness firsthand, when she assisted a group of elderly travelers who were displaced by the 242 Fire this past fall. I won’t get into the complicated story, but Sarah didn’t hesitate in providing assistance and she continues to help our community and community members.

Sarah’s parents raised her with a sense of responsibility to be part of the solution. “I was born with a silver spoon that tarnished, but I haven’t had to have any more than my share of struggles. I like lifting others up”

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (Personal Legacy Statement.)

A: “I wan’t to be remembered as being kind and cheerful.” Sarah added that she also wants to be remembered for being funny!

Sarah is one of the most kind, cheerful, inviting people I’ve ever met! She’s also a woman who is as equally fierce in activism as she is sweet and kind! Thank you for being you, Sarah! (I’m grateful to have met you!)

Sarah and I left our mini-photoshoot dreaming of the day when it’s safe enough to be able to have a cup of coffee together on a sunny patio, finish the rest of this conversation and begin some new ones. I’m looking forward to it!

Ashanti - 21

Ashanti is a brand new friend I hadn’t met yet!

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “Music always brings me delight!”

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment.)

A: “I think I make really good fish tacos!”

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: Ashanti explained that he’s been finding himself thinking about how selfish man can be at times, with our own self-serving behaviors, our own agenda and our own desires. “The solution is to be considerate and treat others how you want to be treated,” Ashanti said, “and not just treating people that way, but the planet too.”

Q: What is your life’s dream/goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: “My biggest commitment to myself is to become content with my life.” Ashanti explained that to get to that point, he’s always pushing himself toward a better tomorrow and regularly asks himself, “what’s next?”

Best wishes to you, Ashanti, may all of your hard work take you to your destination.

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (Personal Legacy Statement.)

A: Ashanti wants to be remembered as someone who lived without self-imposed boundaries or limitations, and encouraged others to do the same. “If you want something, go get it,” Ashanti said.

Thank you, Emma, Sarah & Ashanti!

The idea of “curating community” and “cultivating community” has been a reoccurring thought. As I was reviewing photos of previous subjects and working on the photos for this week, I was struck and impressed by the incredible group of people who’ve participated in the project so far. ‘This is a great community we’re curating,’ I thought. I’ve used the hashtag #creatingklamath on Instagram. I’m inspired and motivated by the people in this project who are sincerely and actively working towards creating a community of which we can all be proud. Some people are working quietly, and some people are working boldly! I’m optimistic that in spite of everything we’ve lived through recently, or maybe it’s because of all that we’ve lived through, we have the ability to unite and curate the community we desire. All of these amazing, vibrant people in our community, create a vibrant community! We have the ability to curate, cultivate, and create a community that’s safe, welcoming, happy, equitable, sustainable, and prosperous for us all. These people are making it happen!

Thanks again for reading along and special thanks to everyone who’s allowed me to photograph them. Spring is coming and soon we’ll have more beautiful blue skies and impressive sunsets. I’m looking forward to pushing myself to look for, see, and capture better lighting. I know the quality of the images will improve as I learn how to see and capture the light.

111 Faces of Klamath Falls - Photography Project, Week 5

February 8, 2021 Joey Gentry-Smith

Hello!

Here’s three more Faces of Klamath Falls!

Flamingo Fred - 13

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “Peace and love, and childlike imagination”

I love this answer! Remember back to childhood…how uninhibited were you? I think of this often, especially when it comes to art, creating, or trying new things. “Pure joy as a child,” Fred reminisced about the way we approached life as kids.

I can remember when I got my first real camera a few years ago. I didn’t even know how to use it. It was an entry-level DSLR with a couple of kit lenses. I headed to a classic car junk yard and photographed for hours. In my adult life, my junkyard photoshoot was the closest thing to that childlike pure joy that Flamingo Fred was describing. (Ironically, some of those first photos were some of my best, even though I had no idea what I was doing, simply because I was in that state of pure childlike joy.) We were so bold as kids…we didn’t worry whether or not we would succeed at something, or how well we could perform, we just did it and we had so much fun in the process! I’m convinced that can we can bring ourselves so much joy and delight if we attempt to recapture that childlike imagination and pure joy in our lives and our pursuits.

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “I think I have the ability to put a smile on people’s faces.”

Q: Do you have a life dream or goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: My goal is to create beautiful things for the world, and to be free.”

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: “I think people should be inspired to do something nice for someone on a daily basis.”

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (Do you have a personal legacy statement?)

A: “I would like to be remembered as a person with a big heart and as a creative genius.”

I just had to get another one in here…I couldn’t decide which image I liked best!

Flamingo Fred is another new friend. I’ve learned from our work on the equity task force that he hopes to unite the citizens of Klamath Falls through arts and cultural events. He’s a man with brilliant ideas, and I have no doubt that had it not been for COVID, he would have succeeded in creating a few new community events that would have helped bring us together. During our little mini photoshoot, he even stopped to to talk with a property manager to inquire about renting a vacant space downtown. I CAN’T WAIT until the day comes when it’s safe for us to gather and dance and celebrate again! (Don’t you worry…Flamingo Fred is already cooking up some great ideas!)

If you want to learn more about Fred’s works and his creative genius, check out his youtube channel and his bandcamp!

Nicole - 14

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “That first sip of coffee in the morning is my favorite.”

Ahhhhh. Me too! Nicole said the first day of spring is a close second.

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “I just finished getting my Master’s degree!”

Not only did she earn her degree, but Nicole had to drive to Bend and back, a few times a week, to finish the program! (That’s 276 miles, roundtrip!) Nicole’s achievements and dedication are so impressive! (I’m so proud of you, Nicole!)

Q: Do you have a life dream or goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: “My life goal is to have my own private practice.” The next step toward achieving her goal is more clinical hours, and obtaining her LCSW.

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: This question gave Nicole considerable pause…solving problems is actually her career. “There are little problems in life all the time,” she remarked, as she considered her answer. “For the problem of work-life balance, I make sure that I pencil in time for myself every day.”

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (Do you have a personal legacy statement?)

A: “I want to be remembered as kind.”

Nicole is my niece. My biggest regret about moving away from home immediately after high school graduation is that I didn’t get to know my nieces and nephews, or my great nieces and nephews. I realized after our little photoshoot that this was the most time I had ever spent with Nicole. (Or at least the longest time we’ve spent together since we were kids.) Although I love my friends, I had the realization that I know my friends even more than I know my own family. Nicole, I’m looking forward to spending more time together. I love you.

Monica - 15

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “What brings me most delight is the innocence and the spirit of my brand new baby cousin, Levenza. Her spirit alone is so healing for my family. When she smiles, everyone just bursts with joy! She’s medicine and she doesn’t even know it.”

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “One of my greatest attributes is probably my commitment and my passion to help my community transcend historical trauma.” Monica added, “I’m fueled with a fire to change things and fix things and to just keep going…I appreciate that about myself.”

I recently had the opportunity to sit in on one of Monica’s cultural sensitivity training workshops that she presents to community businesses and organizations. Monica has single-handedly educated hundreds, if not thousands, of people about the history of the Klamath Tribes. Through her career and her personal dedication and passion, Monica is able to help individual Tribal Members heal generational and historical trauma. Educating the general community is an integral part in healing and uniting our entire community. Monica is a cycle-breaker and a peace-maker. She’s wise beyond her years and I’m amazed, humbled, and inspired by her every single day.

Q: Do you have a life dream or goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: “To become a kind, connected, and humorous Elder.” #lifegoals

Monica explained that those are the attributes of her favorite Elders, from whom she’s learned the most. Monica added that she aspires to be kind, patient, loving and funny. “I’m not scared to get old, I’m embracing eldership.” Realistically, life expectancy for Indigenous people is shorter than average. Monica embraces the prospect of aging and looks forward to making it to the position of Elder, and she hopes that she can earn and hold that position of honor by our community.

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: For all problems, “when in doubt, call Mom!” “A Mother’s love is our greatest armor against everything,” Monica added.

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (Do you have a personal legacy statement?)

A: “I would like to be remembered as an Indigenous woman who did more walking than talking, and who had more action than anything.”

Monica, I can’t think of anything that more accurately describes how I and others see you. You are absolutely incredible and it’s pretty awesome seeing you work…seeing your action. You’re an inspiration to all.

Monica also produces a big community culture event called “Restoration of the Spirit.” The event is hosted by the Tribe and the entire community is invited. We didn’t get to have an event this year due to COVID, but when it’s safe to gather again, it’s a MUST-ATTEND event! When that time comes, I hope you’ll attend and witness Monica’s work - you will indeed see that she’s an Indigenous woman of action. She does more walking than talking. She is a ripple of change and healing for us all.

Thank you Flamingo Fred, Nicole, and Monica!

We’re only 15 people in to the project and I’m already inspired by the depth of our community. We have beautiful people here, who aspire to do beautiful things in our community and in life. These are our friends, our neighbors, our family members, and our co-workers. It’s my sincere hope and dream that Klamath Falls can someday heal that which divides us. Only 15 people in, and I’m so filled with hope and optimism that someday soon, that will be a reality.

Thanks for stopping by!

111 Faces of Klamath Falls - Photography Project, Week 4

January 31, 2021 Joey Gentry-Smith

Laty - 10

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “Just being alive! Just being Present!” Laty explained that he finds delight in a lot of things right now. In a time in our lives when everything is uncertain and often pretty dark, Laty is filled with gratitude and optimism.

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “I’m a person of action!” Laty explained that once he has his mind set, he gives it 150%. “I don’t half-ass stuff!” “I go above and beyond.”

Q: Do you have a life dream or goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: This was the greatest non-answer ever…and I hope it’s an indication that Laty’s life is happy and fulfilled. Laty explained that he was just contemplating this question the night before. Laty doesn’t really have a life goal right now, but he wants to think of something meaningful so that he can work towards achieving a goal.

Please don’t misunderstand this answer…Laty has his hands full as a business owner of one of Klamath’s most loved restaurants, Thai Orchid, and he’s involved in more community committees than I can even remember! He’s a kind, caring person who’s making a difference in our community at so many different levels.

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: “The solution for so many problems…THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK!”

Thank you, Laty! I so needed to hear this reminder right now! Laty and I had a conversation about the pressures that we’re all under right now. “I hit a pandemic wall,” Laty explained.

We’ve all been in survival and self-preservation mode for months. We’re exhausted. We’ve never had to navigate a global pandemic before, and we’re finding ourselves in situations that would have been unimaginable just a year ago. Personally, I’ve never been more on-edge than I’ve found myself lately. I’m finding that even the most optimistic, easy-going, and go-with-the-flow people I know, have hit that wall within the last month or two. It’s manifesting in different ways for each of us. “If we can just think before we react,” Laty counseled. I can’t even imagine Laty being a person who needs to carefully choose his words or his actions and reactions, because his nature is just so good, kind, and thoughtful. I must confess - it’s a bit reassuring to know that even someone as amazing as Laty has to remind himself to think before he speaks.

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (Do you have a personal legacy statement?)

A: “I want to be remembered as someone who was true to themselves, that I have sass and personality, and someone who was just colorful and positive.”

If you’ve ever met Laty, even just once, you would agree that he’s all of this and more! (A kind, caring, giving person who’s working to create a great community for us all!)

If you’ve hit that pandemic wall, know that you’re not alone. This is worth repeating - if you need help or support, please reach out to friends, family, or a professional.

Jonathan - 11

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “I enjoy reading, recreational activities, engaging with the community, and discussing issues that affect everybody.”

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “I’ve had the chance to work with great students and organizers in the the Klamath Basin.” Jonathan is a teacher, and also one of those great organizers in our community!

Q: Do you have a life dream or goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: “I’d like to continue to organize for progressive goals in our area, and continue researching for my academic work.”

I can't predict the future, but we can be certain that Jonathan is dedicated to achieving progress that will benefit our entire community. I'm positive that Jonathan will help us to progress. Keep your eyes out for good things to come!

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: “We need a new deal for rural areas to address poverty, work/employment opportunities, and that will encourage a strong sense of empathy for people with differing socioeconomic backgrounds, and provide for the greater good for all.”

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (Do you have a personal legacy statement?)

A: “That I continued to grow in teaching and academics, and that I tried to do the most good for people and society.”

Jonathan is another new friend but in the short time I've known him, I know that he's sincere and authentic in his desire to bring about positive change for our community.

Michael - 12

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “Being.”

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “That’s not up to me to determine. I don’t have an opinion.”

Q: Do you have a life dream or goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: “I just am.”

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: “Self Reference.”

I asked Michael for clarification, "does that mean that we create our own problems, and that we are also the solution?” Michael responded with a smile, "think about it..."

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (Do you have a personal legacy statement?)

A: “I don’t have any desire to be remembered.”

I actually swapped the order of the subjects from last week and this week, so my memory isn’t as fresh as it should be, and I’m depending on the notes scribbled in my journal. I know I'm failing to adequately recall and recount my conversation with Michael.

Let me just tell you a little more about him. Michael isn't one of those people who knows a little about a lot…It seems like he knows just about everything about everything!!! (And I know he'd disagree with my assessment of him.) The second time I met Michael, at the Klamath Tool Library, our conversation was so in depth, he had to send me on my way with HOMEWORK! He’s helped me so many times that I’ve lost count. Do you know about the Klamath Tool Library? It’s an actual “library” of tools. For a small annual fee, you can “check out” any tool they offer for up to two weeks at a time. I utilized the Tool Library to borrow tools for farm projects, and would end up staying as long as they would let me, just absorbing knowledge from Michael and the other volunteers who happened to be there at the time. I learned a lot about soil, compositing, gardening, and farming from Michael. He’s one of those people who can explain complex material in such a way that you can understand it, even if you’re brand new to the subject matter.

Every time that I’ve ever interacted with Michael, I’ve left him having learned something new. I anticipated that he’d have some great answers to these interview questions, so I was caught off guard when he provided "vague" answers. Michael completely flipped the script and had me contemplating not only these questions, but my entire project! (But in a good way.)

After we finished the interview, I explained that I want these to be positive questions, resulting in positive answers, and remarked about his short answers. I want the the subjects to be able to highlight themselves. I like that people get to shine the spotlight on themselves, and it is my hope that subjects leave our experience together feeling a bit happier.

Michael understood my intent, but he’s at a different point, perhaps more enlightened, than I am presently. Michael remarked, “ego is an artificial construct…our personalities just get us through this space time continuum.” Michael knew the type of answers for which I was hoping, but by answering the way he did, less was more. Michael explained, “the individual is a reflection of the community.” I added that the reverse is also true, “the community is a reflection of the individual.” Michael’s final words to me were, “our identity is a reflection of unity…identity is in our unity.” Wow! My mind was spinning after this.

I left Michael questioning everything, and when I question things, I can over-think to the point of giving myself doubt. I questioned why am I even doing this project? Is it as simple as that this project gives me a “gym” where I can exercise my photography muscles? Why do I ask the subjects these particular questions? Are these questions providing any worth or value to the subjects? Do the subjects feel better when they get to talk about themselves, their dreams, their great traits, and the things that bring them delight? Is this an ego thing…for both myself and the subjects? Does any of this matter? Will any of this matter? Is this a pointless vanity project? I know Michael didn’t intend to cause me to doubt this project. He wanted me to dig deeper.

If the individual is a reflection of the community, than I am seeking to learn about our community by learning about “111 Faces” within that community. In learning about our community and the individuals in this community, I’m learning about myself. (this is a worthwhile pursuit.)

If there’s anything I’ve learned from Michael from the interactions we’ve had so far…it’s that I have so much to learn. (and I'm going to keep on doing that!)

Thank you Laty, Jonathan, and Michael, for being in this project, and for all the work you do for our community!

Thanks for reading!

111 Faces of Klamath Falls - Photography Project, Week 3

January 24, 2021 Joey Gentry-Smith

Hello!

Meet Sam, Sunshine, and VaShawn - the next three subjects in the 111 Faces of Klamath Falls project.

Sam - 7

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “Music!”

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “I’m pretty good at learning things.”

Q: Do you have a life dream or goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: “I would like to create interactive media that teaches people things about themselves.”

Sam spoke passionately about this, to the point that I couldn’t even keep up with him - both intellectually, and with my note-taking! He summarized this concept to me as succinctly as possible and described his idea as a “VR empathy machine.” Sam is working toward this dream by pursuing a degree and learning all aspects of digital media, digital design, and emerging media.”

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: Sam would like to solve the problem of a lack of critical thinking and rational thought. Sam explained that in our current world, our ability to form our own individual thoughts and opinions is declining. He sees value in critical thinking so that people have the ability to form an opinion that wasn’t fed to them by someone else.

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (Do you have a personal legacy statement?)

A: “I don’t even care if I’m remembered, “ Sam laughed, as he answered this question. After some thought, he added, “I just want the world to be a better place.”

Sunshine - 8

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “People showing love to each other.”

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “I absolutely love my job! It’s my reigning passion, and I’m fed by it every day!”

Sunshine is an occupational therapist assistant. She opted to be photographed in her mask, as it’s part of our current time in history and it’s life right now. It was important for her to find a translucent mask to wear on the job, so that her patients could still see her smiling face.

Q: Do you have a life dream or goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: “My life goal is to make change in the dementia treatment realm.” Sunshine is furthering her education and is in pursuit of her masters.

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: Sunshine explained that her idea for a solution to help our economy and job creation, is to improve our medical and social services infrastructure & systems so that everyone in this country has access to: medical care, social care, mental health care, and companionship for those who are isolated. If everyone had access to this care, rather than drain our economy, it would increase and stabilize our economy.

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (Do you have a personal legacy statement?)

A: “That I left the place better than I found it.”

I’ve only known Sunshine for a few months now, but I’m certain that she leaves everyone she meets, better than how she found them. (Myself included.) I’ve observed Sunshine, on numerous occasions, as she interacts with homeless people in our community. She gives them respect, compassion, and love…and if she can help them in some way more than that, she does. Sunshine’s love is strong, as strong as her desire and pursuit of social justice and change in our community. She is fierce in both her love of people, and as a social justice warrior. Indeed, you will be remembered as one who left this place better than you found it.

VaShawn - 9

Q: What’s something that brings you delight?

A: “My Daughters!”

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “I was born,” VaShawn said jokingly, before answering, “I have 3 beautiful daughters, and I’m a damn good driver and tow truck operator.”

Q: Do you have a life dream or goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: My goal is to have my own transport truck. VaShawn is working towards his goal by flipping cars.

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: “The problem is the racism that happens in this town, and that nothing happens about it. The solution is - to leave!”

VaShawn’s response is heart-breaking. I’m sad to find out that VaShawn has decided to move.

I wanted this to be a positive project, and this answer is not a positive outcome to the problem that exists here. Life isn’t always positive…no matter how optimistic we are. VaShawn’s voice needs to be heard. Racism is a serious issue here, and one that needs to be addressed, so I didn’t try to sway VaShawn to answer differently. VaShawn is also a friend, and our community has failed him. I’m sad and I’m angry to learn that VaShawn has decided to move.

VaShawn is a new friend. We met this summer at the first Black Lives Matter protest in our small rural town. Klamath Falls made national news when Black Lives Matter protesters were met with armed counter-protesters and “patriots.” The Black Lives Matter protesters were friends and neighbors, students and teachers, parents and children…and they were met with armed counter-protesters who believed a dumb rumor that bus loads of Antifa were headed to Klamath Falls to cause destruction. VaShawn was actually the first person I met and talked with at the afternoon BLM protest. (It was the later evening protest where Klamath citizens armed themselves against BLM protesters.)

Although the armed response by our community was unimaginable and unacceptable, something good did come from that horrible night. It was a clear tipping point for our community. Our town could no longer hide or deny our problem with racism.

The Klamath Falls City Council formed an Equity Task Force, in part, as a response to the armed counter-protesters. The first order of business for the Equity Task Force - we asked for our city to pass a resolution declaring racism a public health crisis.

VaShawn gave compelling public testimony to our City Council, sharing his lived experiences with racism in Klamath. I won’t go into specific detail regarding the incidents that I know VaShawn has experienced, because I didn’t ask him if I could share that here on the blog. VaShawn’s public testimony just scratched the surface of his experiences here. VaShawn shared that he has twice experienced blatant racism at two separate places of employment. There was ZERO problem resolution when VaShawn notified his employers of the incidents. VaShawn left both jobs. Although VaShawn’s compelling testimony prompted a personal apology from our Mayor, our City Council still wouldn’t pass the resolution to declare racism either a “public health crisis,” or a “societal crisis.”

Eventually, the city council did pass a re-written/re-worded and slightly diluted resolution that condemns racism and recognizes the individual, societal, and economic harm caused by racism. Equity will now be a guiding principle in all decision-making and policy. This is still major progress for Klamath Falls, and I know that VaShawn’s testimony was a contributing factor in the Council’s decision to approve the modified equity resolution. It’s still a win, but sadly, that victory it is too little, and too late, for VaShawn.

I’m sad for VaShawn. I’m sad he feels his only option is to move. The exodus of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color from our community is absolutely not the solution to the problem of racism here. VaShawn made an impact by sharing his personal lived experiences. We can do better as a community. VaShawn, I’m sorry you’ve experienced this in Klamath Falls. We will continue the fight for progress, equality, opportunity, and for a safe and equitable community for all. Thank you for your friendship, your strength, and your protection. You helped our community in your job, I’m just so sad that our community didn’t help you in return.

Best wishes for happiness and success…and for your own transport truck.

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (Do you have a personal legacy statement?)
A: “I want to be remembered as being happy and always smiling.” VaShawn added, “I try to keep a smile on my face, regardless of what I’m going through.”

I will remember you as someone who was always happy, and always had a kind word. You will be missed when you move.

Sam, Sunshine, and VaShawn - thank you for letting me take your picture for this project! And thank you for reading along.

See you next week!

111 Faces of Klamath Falls - Photography Project, Week 1

January 10, 2021 Joey Gentry-Smith

Hello!

It feels so great to be at this again!

This is the very first week, and first post, of my new photography project. I’ve missed you! I’ve missed human interactions and connections!

This project differs significantly from the first project:

I’m in my small, rural, hometown of Klamath Falls, Oregon. I anticipate that most of the subjects in this new project will likely be friends and acquaintances. It’s not at all weird to approach a stranger in Portland to ask to take their photo for a project, but the vibe is different here. I’ll start with people I know, or friends of friends.

This project will be titled “111 Faces of Klamath Falls.” I’m not challenging myself to do a 365 day streak this time. We’re just going to take things at a nice and comfortable pace.

I’m rusty! So rusty! I was just beginning to immerse myself in concert and street portraiture photography when life was up-ended. Photography is definitely a use-it-or-lose it skill. I’m eager to resume learning, and to resume the lifelong pursuit of improving as a photographer. (Please also hang in there while I re-discover my writing voice, rhythm, and pace!)

The interview questions are new, and where we start might not be where we finish. (The questions have already evolved slightly since day one.)

Please know that safety is of critical importance to me! All photos will be outdoors and socially distanced. The subjects are wearing masks up until we make the photo. (And I remain masked.)

Here are our first three subjects from the “111 Faces of Klamath Falls” project.

Jenn - 1

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “I gave up bullshit to be happy! I’m only going to do what I love!”

COVID business closures and changes put Jenn in a position to reevaluate her life and her job. She made a leap to sacrifice higher financial security in order to pursue a life that will bring her joy, happiness, and keep her and her family safe, healthy, and happy!

Q: Do you have a life dream or goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: “Just playing music is a dream…I get to do what I love to do.”

Jenn first responded that her dream was to have more grandkids. We joked and laughed about what she could do to go about achieving that dream. Jenn is so humble, and she could almost be described as being bashful until you get to know her. Yet, she’s the lead singer in her band and has been playing music most of her life! Jenn was so excited for 2020 - her band was booked solid for several months out. COVID hit and stripped away all that she and her mates had worked so hard to achieve. (When life resumes, we will show up and be there for you and your band, Jenn!)

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: Jenn’s answer was conceptual and arose as she observed simultaneous flooding in some parts of the country, while other parts of the country were engulfed in wildfires. Jenn wishes that we had the ability and infrastructure to pipe floodwaters from one region, and move it to arid regions that are prone to wildfire.

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (Do you have a legacy statement?)

A: “I want to be remembered as someone who cares for others and that I do what I can to make the world better. I do what I can to make people happy, and to help solve the problems I see around us.”

Jenn added that music is one small way that she can help bring happiness to others. I know Jenn is a loving mom and grandma, and a fierce warrior for social justice.

Thank you, Jenn, for letting me take your photo. I texted Jenn one day and asked if I could take her photo. Rather over-dramatically, I begged her, “I need to make pictures or I could possibly die.” I know Jenn wasn’t feeling up to it, but she could tell that I needed to get behind a camera again. Jenn’s photo shoot was the spark I needed to reignite my passion and desire to create and make photos with others. She is, indeed, a woman who not only cares for others, but shows them too.

Dea - 2

Q: What’s something great about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “I’m pretty in touch with what other people feel, and I’m able to be there for them and support them in what they’re going through.”

Q: Do you have a life dream or goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: “I want to teach piano. It’s something I enjoy doing, and it’s fulfilling to teach.”

Dea is working towards her dream by finishing her degree in Piano Performance. Dea has been networking and has already started teaching a few students! Good luck, Dea. She also dreams of having a family someday. (I observed Dea caring for our friend’s baby once and it nearly brought tears to my eyes…she’s going to be such a loving mom.)

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: Dea wishes for an overhaul of our tax system and for a redistribution of tax resources to benefit people, healthcare, and education. She hopes that someday, things could be more balanced to benefit everybody, instead of just big business and industry.

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (Do you have a legacy statement?)

A: “I want to be remembered as someone kind and who showed care to others. Every interaction we have with others, changes people, even just a little…and that’s how we live on.”

Dea is one of the most kind and caring humans I’ve ever met. I watched her lead a temporarily-homeless man and his son to a motel, where she paid their bill for a few nights, providing a safe place to stay for the man and his son.

Dea is a new friend, but a dear friend. (As are all three of these ladies - the first subjects in this new project.) Dea is also another social justice warrior. Dea is a quiet person, but you NEVER forget she’s there. Her warm presence is always felt. When Dea does vocalize her opinions and insert herself into conversations - it’s best we listen! When Dea speaks, I know it’s important, and that she’s about to drop some knowledge and wisdom. I know to listen closely.

Gaea - 3

Q: What’s something remarkable about yourself? (a trait or accomplishment)

A: “I was home-schooled for 3 years.”

Q: Do you have a life dream or goal, and how are you working towards it?

A: Gaea would love to open an apothecary. She’s working towards that go by learning as much as she can right now.

Q: Is there a problem for which you have a solution?

A: Gaea’s response is more life-hack in nature. Gaea explained that the trick to prevent Christmas tree ornaments from falling, and to prevent them from dangling in every which way except the way you want them to dangle, is to “pinch and TWIST” the hook! Got that? When you slip the hanging hook into the loop on the ornament, remember to then TWIST the hook to secure it in place. :-)

Q: How would you like to be remembered? (Do you have a legacy statement?)

A: “I want to be remembered as a person who always went above and beyond to help people. It’s the one thing in life I’m really good at.”

(Oh Gaea, you are so good at so many things. It’s exciting to see you grow…your life is just beginning! Indeed, you are going above and beyond to help people.)

That’s it for the first week of this new project! It’s a little weird not having 7 subjects, one every day of the week, right? Like I said, let’s just ease back into this for now.

I’m so fortunate to know these three incredible women. Thank you, ladies! What a great way to kick off this new project!

Thank you for reading and being part of my photography-learning journey!

(PS: If you scroll down to the last post, I explain my long hiatus.)