October 10, 2026, Klamath Falls, Oregon – The Ragland Rife Foundation hosted a reception on the stage at the Ross Ragland Theater to honor long-time donors Jerry and Susan Freschi, who have both served as Directors and Officers on the boards of the Theater and Foundation.

Jim McCabe, Chair of the Ragland Rife Foundation, presented the Freschis with a plaque commemorating their longstanding tradition of providing the Theater and Foundation with financial support. He remarked, "The Ragland Rife Foundation is incredibly fortunate that Susan and Jerry Freschi are keeping the tradition of the theater alive through their support within our community."

Many friends attended the reception and enthusiastically expressed their appreciation. Jerry Freschi spoke about the early days of the Theater, including reference to its days as the Imperial Movie Theater. In addition, he acknowledged the contributions of several others who were instrumental in the renaissance of the Theater after the Imperial's closing. Jerry expressed "how great it is to be celebrating 2026 as the Theater's 85th year anniversary serving the Klamath Falls community."

Paul Stewart, Chair of the Ross Ragland Theater Board, remarked, "We are all as one... grateful to you for your support, not only of the Ragland Rife Foundation and the theater, but also of our community in general. The Freschis have always been invested in helping our community be the very best it can be and their generous contribution is now going to continue to foster a legacy of excellence for our performing arts center."

The recently hired Executive Director of the Theater, Fran Marsielle, commented that the Freschis would be long remembered for their many contributions, both their time and financial gifts. She added, "I love this community, the theater, and folks I have met like the Freschis. Klamath Falls, Oregon is such a great place to be."

Ragland Rife Foundation is a non-profit public benefit corporation. Donations are deductible under Section 501 (c) (3). Federal identification number 93-1091617.

See all the photos from the evening

Browse all 30 photos from the reception in the Pels Press gallery of the Susan and Jerry Freschi event (opens the Pels Press photo site).

Submitted by Earl Liebich. Photos by Pels Press, the Klamath Union High School student magazine.