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No rain, plenty of warm fuzzies at Springfield’s ‘Oldest & Coldest’
SPRINGFIELD – Springfield’s Oldest & Coldest Christmas Parade embarked on its 73rd year last Saturday as downtown businesses opened their doors and folks set up camp on the sidewalks for a front-row view. The Grinch takes time to pose with Cindy Lou Who in Springfield on Saturday.BOB WILLIAMS / CHRONICLE PHOTO Oregon’s typical rainy winter…

Springfield, Eugene shutter Flock cameras
SPRINGFIELD – The Springfield and Eugene police departments on Dec. 5 announced that they have officially terminated use of their Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) systems, citing unspecified “vulnerabilities and limitations” that “prevent them from meeting operational needs, data security requirements, and community expectations.” The system they have been using, called Flock, is a public-private…

National group recognizes Willamalane for budgeting
SPRINGFIELD – This fall, Willamalane Park and Recreation District was recognized by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for its strong stewardship of local tax dollars, according to the district. GFOA offers several award programs that recognize excellence in government finance. This year, Willamalane received two national awards from the organization. “While these awards are…

Community generosity at Bi Mart for Red Cross
Dear Editor: The time from Thanksgiving through December is particularly meaningful to me, as it provides an opportunity to reflect with family and appreciate the many blessings we enjoy. This season also offers ample opportunities to contribute positively to our community through various local organizations. I wish to formally acknowledge Bi Mart and its customers…

The Main Event: Boys basketball – Cottage Grove vs. Cascade
COTTAGE GROVE VS. CASCADE ■ Just the facts: The Lions (0-2) will play host to the Cougars (0-1) on Friday, Dec. 12 at 7:15 p.m. ■ Tipping off: These teams faced off last year, with the Cougars beating the Lions 84-63. Cottage Grove has had 23 turnovers in each of its first two games, and…

Billies fall to Ridgeview at ‘Mac Court’
EUGENE – Saturday’s “Return of the Mac” showdown between Pleasant Hill and Ridgeview was the two-week tournament’s featured attraction because of the coaching matchup: former University of Oregon stars Luke Jackson and Maarty Leunen were revisiting the scene of their climb to notoriety. In the end, this one could have been dubbed “The Son Also…

Springfield’s Tyson Park upgrades discussion Dec. 16
Chronicle news service SPRINGFIELD — Willamalane is hosting a neighborhood meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 16, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. to share the proposed final design and the timeline for updates at Tyson Park at 3405 E St. in Springfield. This meeting will be held virtually on Teams, with Spanish closed captions. This project began in February…

Eugene Concert Choir to hold mid-season auditions
EUGENE — Eugene Concert Choir invites passionate, skilled singers to take part in mid-season auditions on Tuesday, Dec. 16. Positions are open in both the 100-member Eugene Concert Choir (ECC) and Eugene Vocal Arts (EVA) – an acclaimed 40-voice chamber ensemble. Appointments are required to audition, and interested singers are encouraged to reach out soon…

One dead in HWY 58 crash
On Friday, Dec. 5, at 2:14 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 58, near milepost 51, about 15 miles southeast of Oakridge. The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Audi Q5, operated by Jessica Nicole Ingoglia, 37, of Klamath Falls, left the lane of travel for unknown reasons, crossed the…

Weekend of search and rescues
On Saturday, Dec. 6, around 10 a.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a missing elderly woman who had driven away from a residence in the Alvadore area, west of Eugene, who wandered away from her vehicle off of Clear Lake Road. Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue (SAR) volunteers and K9s…

Drain man arrested for assault of Springfield woman
SPRINGFIELD – On Dec. 1 at about 3:30 a.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies and Springfield Police officers responded to an injured female at a business on 42nd Street, Springfield. The female was severely injured and was transported to an area hospital. Deputies learned the victim had been beaten by Anthony Leon Vancil, 39, of Drain.…

State hunting org names new executive director
After a nationwide search, Dr. Todd Adkins was appointed as the new executive director of the Oregon Hunters Association (OHA). Adkins holds a PhD from the University of Notre Dame and a law degree from the University of Iowa, with more than 30 years of experience in hunting and conservation. Adkins Previously, he served as…

Oregon Aviation hiring museum assistant
COTTAGE GROVE – The Oregon Aviation Historical Society at 2475 Jim Wright Way is hiring a part-time museum assistant at $19 per hour, with no benefits, for 24 hours per week, Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., plus some Saturday events. Key responsibilities: Acting as a docent and welcoming visitors Providing full-charge bookkeeping…

Jobs report: Job openings increase in Oregon
According to the latest monthly Jobs Report from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), released by Oregon State Director Anthony Smith, 33% of small business owners reported unfilled job openings in November, up one percentage point from October. This marks the first rise since June, with unfilled positions remaining above the historical average of…

Mary Kelley: Aug. 2, 1930 – Nov. 25, 2025
Mary Kelley, a long-time Springfield/Eugene business owner and community events organizer, has passed away at the age of 95. Mary and her husband Bob Kelley owned Springfield Radio Communication and Cableview Inc. in Springfield for many years. Along with her husband, she participated in many community events such as the Mash Bash, St. Patrick’s Day…

Boys and girls wrestling recaps and previews
RECAPS ■ THURSTON: The Thurston Colts opened their 2025 wrestling season at the Kenny Cox Memorial Tournament last weekend. Here, to say the Colts crushed their competition might be an understatement. In total Thurston had 16 first-place finishes across the boys and girls side out of a possible 27. In particular, the boys won 10-of-14…

Girls basketball recaps and previews
RECAPS ■ THURSTON: The Colts beat Roseburg 35-32 last week.Ashtyn Bellmore and Addi Nelson led the way for Thurston with 11 and 9 points, respectively. While Thurston got the win, its 3-point shooting will need work as the team shot 3-of-20 from beyond the arc on Wednesday. The Colts outrebounded the Indians 38-to-19. ■ COTTAGE…

Boys basketball recaps and previews
RECAPS ■ THURSTON defeated Central 62-41 on Wednesday, Dec. 3 in its season opener. Lucas LaBounty led the Colts with 22 points. Ridge Lindsay, Leo Filipe, and Treyson Hill all scored in double figures as well. The Panthers lack of depth hurt them; four players combined to score 39 of the team’s 41 points. ■…

Millers get defensive in opening victory
SPRINGFIELD – The Springfield Millers girls basketball team opened its 2025 season at Marist Catholic on Wednesday, dominating the second half. After exiting the first half with a six-point lead, the Millers turned up the heat and finished with a 34-point victory, 66-32. “We talked at halftime, we’re making some mistakes and giving them easy…

Death Notice: Jason Ray O’Bannon
Jason Ray O’Bannon, 43, of Cottage Grove, died Dec. 3. Arrangements: Smith-Lund-Mills.

LCSO follows suit, cancels Flock camera contract
The Lane County Sheriff’s Office is suspending its contract with Flock Safety for automatic license plate recognition (ALPR) cameras, according to a Wednesday news release issued by the department. The Sheriff’s Office still has not installed any cameras anywhere in Lane County. LCSO’s contract with Flock Safety was initiated after the Eugene Police Department and…

Update: Missing Springfield mushroom picker found
UPDATE: THURSDAY, DEC. 11, 3:41 p.m. The missing mushroom picker, Erik Aguilar-Cisneros, was found alive in the Hadsall Creek area by Search & Rescue this afternoon and transported to an area hospital for treatment related to hypothermia. On Dec. 6 at 9 p.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies were notified that Erik Everardo Aguilar-Cisneros, 32, of…

Legal Notices: Edition of Dec. 11, 2025
TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE LLG 25-130469 A default has occurred under the terms of a trust deed made by Dusty L. Wallace and Kathrine R. Wallace, as tenants by the entirety, whose address is 355 Crona Street, Junction City, OR 97448 as grantor to Fidelity National Title Company of Oregon, as Trustee, in favor of…

Support small businesses, artists this holiday season
For those interested in finding holiday gifts that support local artists, keep money in the local economy, and promote small businesses rather than large corporations, consider a local gift shop, an art walk featuring local artists, or one of the many holiday markets nearby. “Buying local means supporting your neighbors, the environment, and creative pursuits.…

Drifters strengthen presence with camps, academy
SPRINGFIELD – In November, the Springfield Drifters hired their new general manager of the future in Jake Willard. Although he is a native Californian, Willard has resided in the Springfield-Eugene area since enrolling in college at the University of Oregon, and he is ready to build on the area’s sports history. “I really got to…

ICE raids have Springfield pleading for protection
SPRINGFIELD – Lately, the public comment portion of Springfield City Council meetings has been dominated by folks protesting the implementation and use of Flock police cameras or preserving the Springfield Library budget. The topic shifted at the Dec. 1 meeting, though, as folks from all walks of life gathered to express concerns about the presence…

Festive flair: Springfield ‘Oldest & Coldest’ parade, Cottage Grove Kick-Off events this weekend
SPRINGFIELD – The beloved Oldest & Coldest Parade is set to light up the streets of Downtown Springfield on Saturday, Dec. 6, inspiring the festive spirit of Christmas for its 73rd year. Meanwhile, Cottage Grove’s annual Christmas Kickoff celebration also is scheduled for this weekend. The Oregon Riders Society, a nonprofit organization that aims to…

Festive celebrations await in Creswell – from Santa to a parade
CRESWELL – While Springfield rolls out its Oldest & Coldest Parade this weekend, South Lane is getting ready to celebrate the holiday season next weekend with the 22nd annual Creswell Winter Lights Festival on Saturday, Dec. 13. Winter Lights, hosted by the Creswell Chamber of Commerce, features live music, a holiday vendor market, Santa Claus,…

Barbara Ann (Tiedje) Few: Dec. 14, 1933 – Friday, Nov. 14, 2025
The beautiful earthly life of Barbara Ann (Tiedje) Few, so full of joyful service to Christ, family, friends, and her community, ended peacefully on Friday, November 14, 2025. Barbara was born in Tucson, Arizona, on December 14, 1933 to William and Lucile Tiedje (nee Ewer). Her spirit of adventure was first ignited when her family…

Creswell’s iconic museum building gets a facelift
CRESWELL – The historic structure that Creswellians recognize from just a glimpse recently underwent fundamental construction to preserve the building’s integrity. The Creswell Historical Museum sits on the corner of N. 5th St. and W. Oregon Ave., a memorable view for all who are familiar with the city. The building is so instrumental to the…

City manager pay increases amid City budget concerns
SPRINGFIELD — It is no secret that the City of Springfield is facing a budget dilemma. So, how does the City balance employee wage adjustments with long-term financial challenges? “Springfield faces a growing structural budget gap that threatens the city’s ability to maintain essential services,” reads a statement from the City’s website. Actions to combat…

Cottage Theatre: ‘Alice’s ADVENTURES In Wonderland’
March Hare (Siena Staunau-Reicher), Dormouse (Ylectra Young), Alice (Audriahna Jones), and the Mad Hatter (Brandon Foster) from a whimsical tea party scene showcasing the chaos and charm of Wonderland. COTTAGE GROVE – Cottage Theatre will close its 2025 season with a new adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s classic tale, “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” from Dec. 5…

Letter to the Editor: SMART Court strengthens our community
Dear Editor: As Executive Director of Emergence, the treatment provider for SMART Court, I was glad to see the Chronicle highlight the four recent graduates. Their success reflects what happens when accountability and high-quality treatment work hand in hand. We’re grateful for the opportunity to stand alongside our neighbors who find recovery, restore trust with…

Thurston teen to rehab at elite Chicago facility
THURSTON – The Merritts are making a big move. If all goes as planned, Thurston High School junior wrestling and rodeo star Teagan Merritt will be flown to Chicago on Thursday, where she will be transferred to the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, one of the nation’s top rehabilitation hospitals for severe brain and spinal-cord injuries. Merritt…

Death Notices: Sandwick, Childers
■ Derl L. Sandwick, 93, of Creswell, died Nov. 24. Arrangements: Smith-Lund-Mills. ■ Dennis James Childers, 64, of Eugene, died Nov. 23. Arrangements: Sunset Hills.

‘Toy to the World’ fundraiser this weekend
SPRINGFIELD – Robb and Kori, hosts of the morning show on New Country 93.3 (KKNU-FM) are launching the inaugural “Toy to the World” fundraiser. The event collects new, unwrapped toys, monetary donations, and unused gift cards for the children of Relief Nursery in Eugene and Springfield.The fundraiser will take place at two locations this weekend:…

Public comment sought on updated Oregon automatic voter signup rules
SALEM – The Oregon Secretary of State Office is accepting public comment on proposed administrative rules for the Oregon Motor Voter (OMV) program, the state’s automatic voter registration system managed by the Department of Transportation’s Driver and Motor Vehicle Services Division (DMV). From September to November, the Secretary of State’s office convened a Rules Advisory…

Fareless transit service launches with rides from Eugene to OSU, Junction City, and more
EUGENE – The pilot project for public transit service along the 99W corridor, 99 Vine, began on Nov. 24. This new service is fareless, connecting McMinnville to Eugene with stops in communities including Rickreall, Amity, Monmouth, Corvallis (OSU), Monroe, Junction City, and Eugene (Amtrak and UO). The service offers four trips in each direction every…

Report highlights students’ health needs, urgent call for support
By Francis Bautista SanchezOregon Health News More than one in five Oregon eighth- and 11th-graders experienced unmet mental or physical health care needs in 2022, according to a new state Student Health Survey (SHS) report developed with Oregon youth using the most recent data available. The findings paint a sobering picture of the challenges youth…

Sheriff’s issue DUII’s aplenty
On Nov. 18 at 7:30 p.m., a deputy witnessed a vehicle turn the wrong way onto Oak Street from 7th Avenue. The vehicle crashed into another car. As the deputy stood next to the car, the driver attempted to switch seats with the passenger. The driver was identified as Samuel Edache Ogwuche, 26, of Eugene.…

Man attempts to runover friend, two arrested
LOWELL – On Nov. 29 at about 12:30 p.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of reckless endangering in the area of Big Fall Creek Road milepost 5, a popular camping area northeast of Lowell. Deputies learned Zachery Ty Bryan, 44, of Eugene, was in a pickup truck with Johnnie Faye Cartwright, 32,…

Springfield man pleads guilty to federal hate crime
EUGENE – A Springfield man appeared before a U.S. District Court Judge on Nov. 24 and pleaded guilty to a federal hate crime for assaulting a victim based on their sexual orientation. Daniel Andrew McGee, 26, pleaded guilty to one count of a Hate Crime Act involving an Attempt to Kill. According to court documents,…

The Main Event: Boys basketball
THURSTON VS. SHELDON ■ Just the facts: The Class 5A Colts take on the Class 6A Irish at McArthur Court at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6 ■ Tipping off: Teams from different classes facing off is a theme of the eight-game slate at McArthur Court on Saturday. The Colts had an undefeated league season…

Previews: Boys and girls swimming
THURSTON / MOHAWK ■ The Colts open the 2025-26 season at Cottage Grove to compete in the Cottage Grove Relays. Thurston/Mohawk will compete against Cottage Grove, Hidden Valley, Marist Catholic/Elmira, Marshfield, Roseburg, and Sheldon. The one to watch for Thurston will be the senior Quinn Davenport, who has committed to swim at Pacific University next…

Previews: Boys and girls basketball
Boys ■ THURSTON: The Colts will play the Central Panthers at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 3. The two match up in the season opener for the second consecutive year. Thurston won 54-47 in Independence last year, but this year the Panthers will travel to Springfield. On Tuesday, Dec. 9 at 6:45 p.m., the Colts…

Previews: Boys and girls wrestling
■ SPRINGFIELD: The first match of the year for the Millers is at Churchill for the Kenny Cox tournament on Saturday morning. Competing here alongside Springfield and the hosts in Churchill are Elmira, Newport, Sheldon, Siletz Valley, South Eugene, Sutherlin, and Thurston. Here, look for the seniors, Vince Andrews (132) and Haley Siders (120-125). Andrews…

Legal Notices: Edition of Dec. 4, 2025
TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE T.S. No.: OR-25-1026035-BB Reference is made to that certain deed made by, KEVIN L GOTTWIG as Grantor to U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as trustee, in favor of U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as Beneficiary, dated 1/26/2007, recorded 3/5/2007, in official records of LANE County, Oregon as fee/file/instrument/microfilm/reception number 2007-014812 and…

Winter Sports Preview: Thurston boys basketball
THURSTON ■ Address: 333 58th St. ■ Head coach: Blaine Liberatore’s 11th year at Thurston ■ Last season: Undefeated (12-0) league champs … Lost in playoffs … Four league titles (2002, ’11, ’24, ’25). ■ Total returners: 3 TOP RETURNERS ■ Lucas Labounty, Wing, Sr., 6-5, #12 2024: Averaged 17 ppg, 4 reb., 3 ast.…

Friends & Foes: ‘Mac Court’ reunites former Ducks
PLEASANT HILL – When Ryan Svenson began imagining prep basketball matchups for the “Return of the Mac,” one came to mind immediately. Luke Jackson and Maarty Leunen will return to their old stomping grounds – this time as coaches – to headline an eight-game prep slate on Dec. 6 at McArthur Court. Jackson will lead…

Thurston student suffers serious injuries
THURSTON – Teagan Merritt, a 16-year-old junior at Thurston High School, woke up last week thinking she was a 14-year-old 8th-grader at Thurston Middle School. It was a typical response for someone with a severe brain injury, the result of a tragic car accident that has thoroughly shaken the Thurston community. Now, the elite wrestler…

Lane County rallies to fight hunger: $50k raised in 4 weeks
Catholic Community Sharing Food Pantry at 1025 G St. in Springfield in September. CHRONICLE ARCHIVE PHOTO

Gov. Kotek announces statewide food security philanthropic partnership
Food pantry volunteers at Willamalane Adult Activity Center. Willamalane file photo

Springfield releases video on rules, recommendations for e-mobility devices
SPRINGFIELD – The City of Springfield has developed a traffic safety video about the rules and recommendations for E-mobility devices. The City of Springfield has produced an informative and friendly video about the rules and recommendations for E-mobility devices within Springfield and on Willamalane Park & Recreation District parks and paths. We have observed an increase…

Grove therapy dog dies in traffic incident
COTTAGE GROVE – The City lost a beloved member of the police department on Nov. 20 as comfort K9 Sabrina died after being struck by a vehicle on Highway 99 just north of River Rd. CGPD Police Chief Cory Chase said in a news release: “We are incredibly heartbroken and devastated by this tragedy. Sabrina…

Residents still questioning use of Flock cameras in Springfield
SPRINGFIELD – Springfield residents continue to raise concerns about the Springfield Police Department’s use of Flock cameras, and those concerns have only intensified after word spread that automated license plate recognition (ALPR) cameras had captured images of a stolen vehicle, even though the cameras were supposed to be inactive. Flock is the largest public-private safety…

Who needs NYC? Springfield students throw own ‘Macy’s’ Parade
SPRINGFIELD – About 3.5 million people show up to line the streets of New York City every year to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, but perhaps a lesser-known secret is that Springfield cooks up one of its own annually on Hayden Bridge Road. Page Elementary students on Friday, Nov. 21, held their own Macy’s…

Four graduate SMART Court program
SPRINGFIELD – The City of Springfield celebrated the achievements of four graduates from its SMART Court (Springfield Municipal Adult Recovery and Treatment) program during a ceremony on Nov. 20 at the Springfield Justice Center. SMART Court is a supervised treatment program designed for individuals with substance use or co-occurring disorders. It provides an alternative to…

Barbara Few service on Dec. 19
CRESWELL – This basketball season just isn’t going to be the same without the “Gonzaga Grandma.” Barbara Few, who would have turned 93 next month, died on Friday, Nov. 14 after a three- or four-week illness, according to her husband, retired Rev. Norm Few. Together, the Few family has long been Creswell’s First Family when…

‘Light Up a Life’ ceremony slated for Dec. 14 with Dec. 1 deadline to submit names of loved ones
SPRINGFIELD – For 39 years, PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Hospice has remembered loved ones with gifts of light on a beautiful Christmas tree. Community members are encouraged to join us for this ceremony on Sunday, Dec. 14, at 2 p.m. in the hospital lobby of PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend, 3333 RiverBend Drive, Springfield. It…

Winter Sports Preview: Thurston Boys & Girls Wrestling
■ Head coach: Mike Simons … led both teams to league titles in 2024■ Total returners: 41 boys, 15 girls TOP RETURNERS – Boys■ Michael Salas-Sanchez (120), Jr.Note: State champion, 5th at High School nationals■ Lukas Salas-Sanchez (113), So.Note: State champion TOP RETURNERS – Girls■ Kassidy Hadden (135), Sr.Note: Injured in 2024, state placer in…

Shop local: Show up for small businesses
Report: Holiday spending to reach $263B, with $109 N opportunity in revenue for small businesses. The 2025 holiday shopping season is here—and shoppers are ready to splurge, according to this year’s Holiday Shopping Survey published by Intuit QuickBooks. Despite anxious whispers of tariffs and inflation, consumers are prepared to throw open their wallets and spend…

‘Leftover recipes’ contest part of ‘Simplify the Holidays’ campaign
Thanksgiving Leftover Soup Stock, submitted by Jo Rodgers (2023)

Free holiday meal Dec. 3
Lane County Youth Services invites the community to the 16th annual FREE community holiday meal on Wednesday, December 3. The meal, open to everyone, is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lane County Youth Services at 2727 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Eugene, and includes free food boxes to take home and a raffle…

Fun, under construction
SPRINGFIELD – Members of the Springfield Twin Rivers Rotary chapter help construct new playground equipment it donated at Family Relief Nursery on Friday, Nov. 14. Chapter president John Kimpton and McKenzie McCauley work on a water tower. PHOTO PROVIDED

STEPPING UP: Family launches shoe drive fundraiser to support international adoption
SPRINGFIELD – The Kohl family is conducting a shoe drive fundraiser from Nov. 17, 2025, to Jan. 17, 2026, to raise money for the adoption fees of a child with Down syndrome. The family will earn funds based on the total weight of the pairs of gently worn, used, and new shoes collected, as Funds2Orgs…

Study: No flu vax for nearly half of Oregon health workers
Rates of influenza vaccination among health care workers in Oregon plummeted over the last five respiratory virus seasons, raising the risk of infection for patients, according to new Oregon Health Authority (OHA) data. To increase vaccination rates, public health recommendations encourage health care workers – including contractors and volunteers – to get vaccinated every flu…

Springfield birth center partners to combat syphilis
SPRINGFIELD – Our Community Birth Center, a nonprofit midwifery birth center at 188 W. B St. in Springfield, was awarded a grant through Cow Creek Umpqua Indian Foundation and Oregon Health Authority to support its collaboration with Black Thistle Street Aid to provide reproductive healthcare services and communicable disease prevention, specifically targeting syphilis screenings for…

10-Year ‘Destination Master Plan’ resident sentiment survey is live
EUGENE — Travel Lane County has launched a community survey as part of its Destination Master Plan process, inviting residents across Lane County to share their perspectives on tourism’s role in our region. The Destination Master Plan, now entering its research phase, is a 10-year roadmap to guide how our visitor economy grows and supports…

Cottage Theatre offers eight-week after-school program
COTTAGE GROVE — Cottage Theatre is offering an eight-week after-school program for young actors ages 11 to 17, led by Alana Merz. The program will culminate in two public performances of “Junie B. Jones JR. The Musical.” Rehearsals are scheduled for Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 5:30 p.m., beginning Jan. 7, 2026. A full…

Springfield museum closing temporarily
SPRINGFIELD – The Springfield History Museum will temporarily close to the public from Jan. 1 through July 10, 2026 to support a major collections care initiative. During this time, staff and volunteers will focus on processing, conserving, and organizing thousands of historical artifacts to ensure their long-term preservation. The Museum is home to more than…

Lowell man arrested after menacing, pursuit
LOWELL – On Nov. 15, Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of menacing involving Marcquis Andrew Lee White, 33, of Lowell, who allegedly brandished a handgun and fled the scene in a vehicle. Deputies deployed an armored rescue vehicle, drone, and K9 units to search for the suspect. His vehicle was later found…

8th Street intersection reopens in the Grove
COTTAGE GROVE – The 8th Street intersection is now open as part of the EDA Main Street Revitalization Project, marking the second concrete intersection completed. Traffic will continue to be routed on the south side of Main Street throughout the project, which extends from Highway 99 to the Main Street Bridge. North side progress: Concrete…

Winter Sports Preview: Creswell Bulldogs Girls Basketball
■ Address: 33390 Niblock Ln.■ Head coach: Tyler Hollingsworth, 9th year at Creswell■ Last year: Won 1st league title since 2013; lost in playoffs■ Total returners: 10 TOP RETURNERS■ Kylie Leonard, G, Sr., 5-5, #52024: 1st team All-League … averaged 8 ppg., 3 reb., 3 ast., 2 steals■ Mila Nguyen, G, Jr., 5-6, #42024: 1st…

Winter Sports Preview: Cottage Grove Lions Girls Basketball
■ Address: 1375 S. River Rd.■ Head coach: Kim Beer, first season at CGHS … after coaching at La Pine for the 2024-25 season. Beer has also coached at Pleasant Hill twice, going 34-52 in his first stint and 23-3 in the second■ Total returners: 4 TOP RETURNERS■ Mariah Bailey, Guard, Sr., 5-6, #12Note: All-conference…

Winter Sports Preview: Pleasant Hill Billies Boys Basketball
■ Address: 84455 N. Enterprise Rd.■ Head coach: Luke Jackson’s 2nd year at Pleasant Hill■ Last season: Lost in semifinals of Class 3A state playoffs■ Total returners: 6 … 2 returning starters TOP RETURNERS■ Landen Melvin, G, Sr., 6-1, #42024: First Team All-League■ Jacob Neely, G, Sr., 5-10, #12024: All-League defensive team■ Doug Green, F/C,…

Winter Sports Preview: Cottage Grove Lions Boys Basketball
COTTAGE GROVE LIONS■ Address: 1375 S. River Rd.■ Head coach: Seth Hutchison, 8th year■ Last season: Lost in postseason play-in game to Newport.■ Total returners: 5TOP RETURNERS■ Trevor Cooper, Wing/Post, Jr., 6-6, #242024: Averaged 15.4 points and 8.1 rebounds. … 1st team all Sky-Em as a sophomore■ Tai Lam, PG, Jr., 5-8, #112024: Averaged 4.5…

Winter Sports Preview: Springfield Millers Boys Basketball
SPRINGFIELD MILLERS■ Address: 875 7th St.■ Head coach: Jeremy Houng TOP RETURNERS■ Brady Loser, G, Sr., 6-2, #02024: Brady has come a long way since junior year. He has put in a lotof work and his athleticism has taken a huge step forward. He is a strong slashing off-guard that teams will struggle to contain■…

Winter Sports Preview: Springfield Boys & Girls Wrestling
Head coach: Chase WellsTotal returners: 9 boys, 5 girls TOP RETURNERS – Boys■ Vince Andrews (132), Sr.Note: One win away from qualifying for state in 2024, has shown massive improvement after starting wrestling in 8th grade■ Michael Christie (120), Sr.Note: Improved a lot since freshman year, has potential to make big run at districts TOP…

Winter Sports Preview: Pleasant Hill Boys & Girls Wrestling
■ Head coach: Dahn Nikitins, 35 years with Billies; 4th-place last year in state was the highest finish in tenure and the highest Pleasant Hill has had in wrestling.■ Total returners: 12 TOP RETURNERS – Boys■ Jacob Boyles (120), Jr.Note: 2024 state champion■ Dean Scott (120-130), Jr.Note: Placed at state■ Jack Quinones (120-130), So.Note: Placed…

Winter Sports Preview: Cottage Grove Girls & Boys Wrestling
■ Head coach: Christina Kent■ Total returners: 25 TOP RETURNERS – Boys■ Jeffrey Conklin (132-138), Jr.Note: Two-time regional placer and two-time state placer. Took 3rd last year and 5th his freshman year. … Beat multiple state champs throughout the season. A quiet leader.■ Jayden Davis (157-165), Sr.Note: Regional placer last year and won some matches…

Winter Sports Preview: Creswell Boys & Girls Wrestling
■ Head coach: Jeff Cardwell■ Total returners: 11 boys, 3 girls TOP RETURNERS – Boys■ Coleman Breslaw (132), So.Note: State qualifier last year (29-19); just missed placing at state.■ Javier Bautista (157), Jr.Note: 27-19, 4th in regional tournament, top-3 qualify for state tournament■ Andrew Terry (190), Jr.Note: 19-11, 2nd in regional, qualified for state■ Brandon…

Winter Sports Preview: Cheer
COTTAGE GROVE■ Nothing submitted. CRESWELL■ Head coach: Maranda Houck■ Total returners: 11 TOP RETURNERS■ Ava Koch, Sr. captainNote: In freshman year, team won 3rd place in team competition at state■ Taylor Dennis, Sr. captainNote: 3rd year in program. Has done individual competition all three years; placed for the first time last year.■ Haylee Mendonca, Sr.…

Winter Sports Preview: Boys and Girls Swimming
COTTAGE GROVE BOYS SCHEDULE■ 12/5, Cottage Grove Relays at Warren H. Daughtery Aquatic Center, TBD. (Cottage Grove, Hidden Valley, Marist Catholic/Elmira, Marshfield, North Valley, Roseburg, Sheldon, Thurston/Mohawk)■ 1/9, Sheldon Invitational at Sheldon Pool, 3 p.m. (Cottage Grove, Sheldon, Springfield)■ 1/9, Cottage Grove vs. Marshfield in Dual Meet, 4 p.m., Cottage Grove HS■ 2/13-14, District Meet…

Winter Sports Preview: Thurston Girls Basketball
■ Address: 333 58th St.■ Head coach: Kevin Durfee, 3rd year at Thurston■ Total returners: TOP RETURNERS■ Addi Nelson, G, Sr., 5-8, #22024: All-League 1st team■ Payton Tovey, G, Jr. 5-7, #122024: 2nd team All-League■ Emmiana Gerdrum, PG, So., 5-7, #202024: Honorable Mention All-League as a freshman■ Bridgette Nault, Post, Sr., 5-11, #132024: Third-year starter■…

Winter Sports Preview: Springfield Millers Girls Basketball
Address: 875 7th St.Head Coach: Joe Williamson, 6th season at SHSTotal returners: 7 TOP RETURNERS■ Darissa Romero-Ahsam, G, Sr., 5-7, #12024: Defensive player of the year, first team all conference■ Sailor Hall, G, Jr., 5-9, #322024: First team all-conference■ Iyahna Woodard, P, Jr., 6-1, #30■ Lia Jones, G, So., 5-7, #02024: Honorable mention all-conference TEAM…

Winter Sports Preview: Pleasant Hill Billies Girls Basketball
■ Address: 84455 N. Enterprise Rd.■ Head coach: Terry Newton was coach at Perrydell for 23 years, 12 w girls, 10 w boys, multiple top 5 in state finishes … coached Vernonia in 2024■ Last year: Billies won league tournament; lost in playoffs■ Total returners: 5 (seven seniors graduated) TOP RETURNERS■ Soleis Jones, Wing, Sr.,…

Winter Sports Preview: Creswell Bulldogs Boys Basketball
■ Address: 33390 Niblock Ln.■ Head coach: Jesse Thomas’ 10th year at Creswell … has won four league titles in past nine years.■ Last season: Reached playoffs■ Total returners: 6 TOP RETURNERSLuke Bailey, F/Post, Sr., 6-5, #232024: Averaged 11 pts, 6 reb per game … 2nd team All-LeagueMason Schartz, G/F, Jr., 6-5, #32024: Averaged 7…

Something to bark about: Comfort K9 Corporal Carlton sworn in to serve
LANE COUNTY – A four-legged furry friend was officially sworn in for duty to work with the Lane County Sheriff’s Office last Wednesday. Special Deputy Corporal Carlton, a 2-year-old goldendoodle, took an oath of office to serve as an LCSO wellness dog at the Lane County Courthouse. Lane County Sheriff Carl Wilkerson and K9 Corporal…

Legal Notices: Edition of Nov. 27, 2025
SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION Case No.: 25CV51078 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF LANE PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF SUSAN M RAY AKA SUSAN MARIE RAY AKA SUSAN RAY; COREY RAY; CURTIS WAYNE RAY; RAY KLEIN INC. DBA PROFESSIONAL CREDIT SERVICE; OCCUPANTS OF…

Wyden tours Food for Lane County
EUGENE – Food insecurity has been an ongoing issue in Lane County, with a recent spike in need for assistance, coupled with federal fund hang-ups. Last Thursday, U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden toured the Food for Lane County warehouse at 770 Bailey Hill Rd., donated groceries, and spoke on the subject. “This food is going to…

City celebrates Mill Street reopening
SPRINGFIELD – After stormy weather soiled plans for the Mill Street grand opening that was initially scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 5, the City of Springfield celebrated a sunny ribbon-cutting ceremony last Friday. Construction on Mill Street broke ground in September last year, and south A Street to Centennial Blvd. was officially opened on Halloween the…

Ukrainian church, storytellers honored in Springfield
SPRINGFIELD – The Nativity Ukrainian Church Congregation and the Lane County Monument Projects have been selected to receive the 2025 Springfield Heritage Awards. Springfield City Council awarded the recipients at its Nov. 17 meeting. The Springfield Heritage Awards are a program to recognize stewardship of history and heritage within the community. There are two award…

SUB recognized nationally, regionally
SPRINGFIELD – Springfield Utility Board (SUB) was recently recognized by both the American Public Power Association (APPA) and the Northwest Public Power Association (NWPPA). SUB earned a Smart Energy Provider (SEP) designation from the APPA for demonstrating a commitment to, and proficiency in, energy efficiency, distributed generation, and environmental initiatives that support the goal of…

Drifters introduce Willard as GM
SPRINGFIELD – The Drifters named Jake Willard their new general manager Monday. Willard – who has spent the past six years with TrackTownUSA and the Prefontaine Classic – takes over for Barry Bokn, who retired this fall. Team officials said Willard brings a community-focused approach for the Drifters, saying he will help build upon current…

Veterans Day breakfast, services honor those who have served
SPRINGFIELD – The City of Springfield and The American Legion Post #40 co-hosted a Veterans Breakfast with Mayor Sean VanGordon to honor Springfield’s veterans and thank them for their service last Tuesday. “The breakfast is a small but simple way to say thank you and to show our respect for the community and our gratitude,”…

The Springfield Lions: 75 years of care, giving
SPRINGFIELD – The Springfield Lions Club, known for its dedication to serving others, celebrated its 75th anniversary on the evening of Nov. 3 at Major Family Funeral Home on Mill Street. Springfield Mayor Sean VanGordon delivered opening remarks, emphasizing the Lions Club’s vital role in the community over the past 7 decades. The club, part…

Small ‘business optimism’ dips slightly
The National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Optimism Index declined by 0.6 points in October to 98.2, but remained above its 52-year average of 98. The Uncertainty Index fell 12 points from September to 88, the lowest reading of this year. “Small business optimism is hovering just above the all-time average, which is definitely…








