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Loveall files federal lawsuit

Ashlin Sanderson·

LANE COUNTY – It was announced last Friday that County Commissioner David Loveall has officially filed a federal lawsuit against Lane County, County Administrator Steve Mokrohisky, and fellow Commissioners Heather Buch, Laurie Trieger, and Pat Farr for violations of his First Amendment rights, retaliation, and violations of open meeting laws. The 35-page lawsuit filed in…

Creswell Chamber expanding big events

Ashlin Sanderson·

CRESWELL – During Monday night’s Creswell City Council meeting, Mandy Hoggard, Creswell Chamber secretary, and Kelly Makinson, Chamber president, shared the Creswell Chamber’s annual report that included statistics about last year’s big events, like the Fourth of July and the Winter Lights Festival, and how they hope to expand on those events and more this…

South Lane fire levy returns to May ballot

Ashlin Sanderson·

SOUTH LANE – South Lane County residents can expect to see Ballot Measure #20-383 on the May ballot again, after the same proposed fire levy increase was shot down by voters last November. To inform voters of the impact of a yes vote on the measure, firefighters from South Lane County Fire and Rescue (SLCFR)…

‘Steel Magnolias’ takes stage this weekend

Sarina Dorie – Arts Writer·

COTTAGE GROVE – Maya Burton is stepping into a pivotal chapter of her career as executive director at the Opal Center for Arts and Education, all while continuing her leadership at Storybook Theatre of Cottage Grove and directing the highly anticipated play “Steel Magnolias” debuting this weekend in Cottage Grove. “Steel Magnolias” is a 1987…

Photo library: Cottage Grove Chamber Awards

Chronicle Staff Report·

COTTAGE GROVE – A lively evening filled with Western flair took place at the Cottage Grove Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Banquet on Saturday, March 21, where local businesses and organizations united to honor community excellence and support scholarships. Award recipients included the Cottage Grove High School Key Club (Distinguished Service Award), South Lane…

Cottage Grove honors sports legend Dyrol Burleson

Chronicle Staff Report·

COTTAGE GROVE – Back on Aug. 25, 2025, Cottage Grove Mayor Candace Solesbee issued a proclamation to honor Dyrol Burleson, a celebrated athlete and historic figure from the city. Burleson, a member of the Cottage Grove High School Hall of Fame, made significant contributions to athletics, including setting the 1500 meters record in 1958 and…

Timber leaders convene in Grove

Chronicle News Service·

COTTAGE GROVE – Last week, Douglas County Commissioner Tim Freeman, President of the Association of O&C Counties (AOCC), hosted a quarterly meeting at Starfire Lumber in Cottage Grove, attended by AOCC board members and county commissioners. The meeting included a tour of Starfire Lumber’s new timber-built administration building and facilities. The gathering followed pivotal federal…

Springfield Chamber to host expanded 'Essential Skills' workshop

Chronicle News Service·

SPRINGFIELD – The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce will hold its Essential Skills Workshop from April 20-22, at the Holiday Inn Express on Kruse Way. The no-cost program features three half-day sessions, running from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each day, and aims to equip entry- to mid-level managers with practical leadership tools.  Key topics will…

All Oregon schools: No cell phones allowed

Chronicle News Service·

Governor Tina Kotek issued Executive Order 25-09, which bans cell phone use by students during school hours. All of Oregon’s school districts have adopted this policy. “Research tells us that constant cell phone use distracts from learning and can create mental health issues,” Governor Kotek stated. “For our students to thrive, we have to make…

Community leaders honored at LCOG dinner

Chronicle News Service·

COTTAGE GROVE – The Lane Council of Governments (LCOG) held its annual Member Appreciation Dinner and fundraiser on March 6 at the historic Cottage Grove Armory. Each year, LCOG celebrates regional accomplishments for the prior year and recognizes outstanding work and accomplishments in the region. More than 160 elected and appointed officials, business and community…

Man swings knife at Spencer Butte walkers

Chronicle News Service·

EUGENE – On March 21 at 7 p.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to Spencer Butte Park in the 85300 block of S. Willamette Street, south of Eugene. Callers reported a male had been lying in the roadway, then swung a knife and threw a bottle at them when they attempted to make sure he…

Deputies arrest three during burglary near Veneta

Chronicle News Service·

VENETA – On March 20 at 2:30 p.m., a Lane County Sheriff’s deputy observed a pickup and trailer parked on private property in the 88000 block of Central Road, west of Eugene near Veneta. The gate was damaged, and the pickup was not associated with the address. Several deputies and K9 Ripp responded to assist…

One call leads to three DUIIs in Dexter

Chronicle News Service·

DEXTER – On March 19, shortly before 1 a.m., the Lane County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a vehicle that had crashed into a tree in the 82000 block of Barbre Road in Dexter. Upon arrival, deputies observed the involved vehicle again on the roadway. Deputies contacted the occupants of the vehicle and…

Third round of ‘No Kings’ scheduled for Saturday

Chronicle Staff Report·

SPRINGFIELD – On March 28, thousands of residents will gather to demonstrate that “America has no kings” and that power belongs to the people. Dubbed “No Kings 3 – Communities in Alliance,” the event will feature mass protests across the U.S., organized by Indivisible and its No Kings partners. In Eugene, the Activist Coalition of…

Megga Hunt: 48,000 eggs part of state's largest hunt

Chronicle Staff Report·

SPRINGFIELD – Get ready to have an egg-cellent time at Megga Hunt, Springfield’s biggest annual egg hunt! Willamalane’s 71st annual Megga Hunt is on Saturday, April 4, 2026 from 9 a.m. to noon at Lively Park, 6100 Thurston Rd., Springfield. The event is open to all ages and abilities and will feature a variety of…

Calling all Springfield canines!

Chronicle News Service·

SPRINGFIELD – The City of Springfield is now accepting photo submissions for its 2027 Canines for Clean Water calendar. Dog owners can submit one photo per dog from March 20 to April 6 using the official entry form at bit.ly/pickmypooch. Entries via social media or email will not be accepted. Twelve selected dogs will receive…

Lynch earns Annabel Kitzhaber Education and Advocacy award

Chronicle News Service·

EUGENE – Longtime Eugene resident Linda Lynch is the recipient of this year’s Annabel Kitzhaber Education and Advocacy Award, presented by the League of Women Voters of Lane County. The award is meant to recognize an outstanding citizen for their significant, effective, and long-term leadership in making local and state government more accessible to the…

Illegal dumping: Lane County launches R.I.D. tool

Daniel Hiestand – WasteWise·

Illegal dumping isn’t just an eyesore: it’s a costly, environmentally damaging problem that affects neighborhoods, waterways, and wildlife. Lane County is taking a proactive step to address this issue with the launch of its new Report Illegal Dumping (R.I.D.) tool, an easy-to-use online platform that empowers residents to act. Try the tool at lanecountyor.gov/keeplaneclean. The…

It’s all about the tradeoffs: Healthy forests involve choices, consequences

GUEST COLUMN·

By Theresa Hausser and Kate McMichael Perspective is a funny thing. Kids, too. As members of Oregon Women in Timber, a statewide, all-volunteer nonprofit organization dedicated to forestry education, we were interviewing one of our members, Kit LaBelle, for our Women Who Know the Woods video series (find the YouTube link at orwit.org). It turned…

Spring Sports Preview: Saunders aims for league, state titles

Steve Mims FOR THE CHRONICLE·

THURSTON – Grady Saunders has been playing above his age level since middle school, so Dennis Minium knew he didn’t have an average freshman arriving on the diamond in 2023. “Oh yeah, I had high expectations for him after watching him play at the Babe Ruth level,” the Thurston baseball coach said. “I knew he…

Derrick has veteran team, new field at Pleasant Hill

Steve Mims FOR THE CHRONICLE·

PLEASANT HILL – Pleasant Hill will show off a new field as it looks to make the state softball playoffs. The Billies’ booster club raised funds to provide a new turf facility for the softball team while looking to do the same for the baseball team soon. “We could not be more excited and thankful…

Millers shine at throwing ‘Invite’

Eli Thomas·

SPRINGFIELD – The 5th annual Harvey Lewellen Throws Invitational took place on Saturday, March 21. Springfield, Thurston, Cottage Grove and Creswell were among the schools represented at the meet. Lewellen is a former Thurston track coach who has set a number of world and American masters records and is a member of the USA Track…

Repeat feat? Bulldogs ready to run

Steve Mims FOR THE CHRONICLE·

CRESWELL – With a few returnees – including a state champion – and a talented transfer, Creswell will take a shot at defending its Class 3A girls track and field championship. The Bulldogs bring back three scorers from last year’s group that totaled 56 points to edge runner-up Banks by one to claim the first…

Softball Previews

Steve Mims FOR THE CHRONICLE·

THURSTON ■ Coach: Jeff Litle■ Last year: 23-6, 15-3 in Midwestern League, second place. Defeated West Albany 15-13 in the first round of playoffs and defeated Wilsonville, 12-2, in second round of playoffs. Defeated Crater 18-15 in state semifinals before losing 9-0 to Ridgeview in the state title game.■ Outlook: The Colts return five all-league…

Baseball Previews

Steve Mims FOR THE CHRONICLE·

THURSTON ■ Coach: Dennis Minium■ Last year: 26-4 overall, 18-0 to win Midwestern League title. Lost to Canby, 2-0, in the state semifinals.■ Outlook: The Colts have won seven straight league titles dating to 2018 and are favored to add to that list. The Colts won state in 2023 and ’24 before falling one game…

Boys & Girls Track & Field Previews

Steve Mims FOR THE CHRONICLE·

THURSTON ■ Coach: K.C. Gillespie■ Outlook: The Colts placed sixth at state last year in the girls competition led by Brooklyn Anderson, who won the state title in the 100 hurdles in 14.93 seconds. She already topped that time as a senior by running 14.44 to tie for 16th in state history. Anderson placed third…

Ex-Drifter strikes out 13 for Bushnell

Knight Jarecki·

SPRINGFIELD – Drifters alum Austin Wolfe (2023) broke the Bushnell baseball record for strikeouts in a game, fanning 13 Oregon Tech batters across eight innings on Saturday. He walked only one batter and allowed two runs en route to his fourth victory this season. Wolfe has four games with eight or more strikeouts. Danny Womack,…

WINTER SPORTS ALL-STATE

Chronicle Staff Report·

WRESTLING 5A BOYSFirst Team■ Samuel Greenstreet, 10, Thurston, 1st in Midwestern League, 108■ Michael Salas-Sanchez, 11, Thurston, 1st in Midwestern League, 120■ Bill Matheus, 12, Thurston, 1st in Midwestern League, 150 Second Team■ Lukas Salas-Sanchez, 10, Thurston, 2nd in Midwestern League, 113■ Tanner Brumble, 10, Thurston, 2nd in Midwestern League, 126■ Emmit Distefano, 11, Thurston,…

Legal Notices: Edition of March 26, 2026

admin·

TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE T.S. No.: OR-25-1031052-RM Reference is made to that certain deed made by, MONIQUE MARIE MOYA as Grantor to FIDELITY NATIONAL TITLE INSURANCE, as trustee, in favor of MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS NOMINEE FOR VILLAGE CAPITAL & INVESTMENT LLC., ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS, as Beneficiary, dated 3/20/2025, recorded 4/3/2025, in…

Darlene Phyllis Bates Workman: June 10, 1937 – March 7, 2026

Chronicle News Service·

Darlene Phyllis Bates Workman was born on June 10, 1937, in Los Angeles, California, to Edgar and Erma Bates and was the thirteenth of fourteen children. Darlene passed away in her sleep on March 7, 2026, from Leukemia in the Pete Moore Hospice House. She was 88 years old. Darlene spent her younger years growing…

Creswell Library:A 20-year milestone

Ashlin Sanderson·

CRESWELL – Over 20 years ago, the Creswell Library moved from the historic Old Schoolhouse across from Creswell Bakery on 2nd Street to an old clinic at 64 W. Oregon Ave., and has since undergone extensive renovations and expanded to become the library folks know today. Today, the library owns its own building and has…

Groundbreaking, on several levels: Creswell program ‘to serve students for generations’

Ashlin Sanderson·

CRESWELL – On Monday afternoon, a few dozen folks gathered at Creswell High School to turn the soil for the school’s new career and technical education building. The 20,000-square-foot building was donated to the school by R&M Steel, a company based in Idaho. Bethany Scovil showed attendees to the school’s commons area, where the school…

Creswell agrees to new judge, attorney

Ashlin Sanderson·

CRESWELL – Creswell will appoint a new municipal judge and city attorney, replacing Attorney Ross Williamson, who began serving as the City Attorney for Creswell in 2011, and municipal judge R Scott Palmer, who has served in Creswell for over 40 years. Mayor Nick Smith said he and city manager Vincent Martorello will negotiate an…

Springfield board OKs sidewalk construction near old US Bank

Ashlin Sanderson·

SPRINGFIELD – At a March 9 Springfield Economic and Development Agency meeting, board members approved an offer from the Oregon Department of Transportation that includes construction of sidewalks around the old US Bank building at 437 Main Street. Jeremy Sherer, the city surveyor, said the acquisition is part of ODOT’s statewide effort to upgrade approximately…

Getting ‘Medieval’ in modern times

Sarina Dorie – Arts Writer·

Imagine being able to temporarily time-travel and escape modern distractions, exhausting work situations, and stressful politics. Which time period would you choose to visit? While we may not have a time machine, we do have a unique opportunity to take a break from modern life. When you visit the Barony of Adiantum in the Kingdom…

Finding a moment of calm in turbulent waters

FRANK ARMENDARIZ for The Chronicle·

In these turbulent times, the impact of current events is widespread, affecting people of all ages and sectors of society. We are constantly bombarded by media across all platforms with often negative news. As a baby boomer born in the mid-20th century, I have witnessed incredible changes and advancements – from the mere dreams of…

What exactly is ‘public’ radio? Listeners dial in to music, community on KRVM

TONY STEVENS – FOR THE CHRONICLE·

Radio is one of our oldest forms of electronic mass communication. While its concept is quite old, radio itself didn’t enter most American households until the late 1920s. Once introduced, it caught on quickly. Mass communication has been multiplied and honed unceasingly in the last century, but, through it all, simple little radio remains largely…

Embracing the power of small things

BOB BECK for The Chronicle·

“For whoever has despised the day of small things shall rejoice, and shall see the plumbline in the hand of Zerubbabel.”– Zechariah 4: 10 He replied, “…because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here…

AARP offers free tax prep in Oregon

Chronicle News Service·

Oregon’s older residents can access free tax preparation services this season through AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, the largest volunteer-based tax assistance program in the nation. Operating until April 15, Tax-Aide has helped over 82 million people since 1968, with volunteers assisting over 1.7 million taxpayers last year alone in the 2025 tax season. Oregon volunteers completed…

Lane County student superlatives

Chronicle News Service·

DEAN’S LIST ■ Hannah Fackler, of Creswell, Music Performance, Biola University in La Mirada, California.■ Allison Palluck, of Cottage Grove, Psychology, Manchester University, Indiana.■ Lynzee Halcott, of Springfield, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.■ Maria Batey, Arts, of Springfield, Humanities & Soc Science, Interdisciplinary Studies, Eastern Oregon University.■ Tiffany Sanderson, of Springfield, Education, Early Childhood Education, Eastern Oregon…

Commission denies crab petition

Chronicle News Service·

SPRINGFIELD – The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission, during a meeting in Springfield in late February, voted 6-1 to deny a petition aimed at modifying crab fishery rules to reduce the risk of whale entanglement further. While rejecting the petition, the Commission urged the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) to continue its planned…

New findings show benefits of ‘Imagination Library’

Chronicle News Service·

SALEM – New research — the largest dataset ever conducted on shared book reading — affirms that Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library significantly strengthens early literacy skills for children in Oregon alongside children across the United States and in four other countries, reinforcing the power of shared reading in the earliest years of life. The study,…

Singing Creek spring break, summer camps announced

Chronicle Staff Report·

SPRINGFIELD – Singing Creek Education Center – a nonprofit that provides hands-on history and nature programs that connect children to the heritage and ecosystems of the Willamette Valley – will soon host a lineup of hands-on spring break and summer camps for participants of all ages. “We are thrilled to have this new space, and…

Buch a strong voice for East Lane

GUEST COLUMN·

Dear Editor, I first met Heather Buch on a warm, late-summer day in 2018 while weeding my yard in Cottage Grove. She was walking door-to-door, canvassing. She introduced herself and told me she was running for the East Lane County Commissioner seat. We were both more than happy to take a break from the hot…

Pelroy the right choice for a better board of leaders

GUEST COLUMN·

Dear Editor, East Lane County voters need better representation on the Lane County Board of Commissioners than the tax-and-spend ideas of the incumbent running for re-election. Candidate Jake Pelroy has extensive experience in policy matters and wants to bring a pro-business, pro-private-property-rights perspective to the board. It is very difficult in Lane County for business…

Local blood drives

Chronicle News Service·

The American Red Cross and Bloodworks NW are urging residents to schedule blood donations amid blood supply shortages. Donors of all blood types are needed, especially with the possibility of severe weather this spring. To book your donation, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or contact Bloodworks at (541) 484-9111 or visit bloodworksnw.org. Additionally, A1C testing…

2026 is ‘Year of the Woman Farmer’

Chronicle News Service·

SALEM –Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek has declared 2026 the Year of the Woman Farmer, aligning the state with the United Nations’ designation of the International Year of the Woman Farmer. This initiative, supported by the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, acknowledges the vital contributions of women in agriculture. Women represent 44% of all…

McCauley appointed board member for Willamalane

Chronicle News Service·

SPRINGFIELD – At the March 11 board meeting, Veronica McCauley was sworn in as the newest board member of Willamalane Park and Recreation District. ​She will fill the vacancy left by the departure of former Director Greg James and will serve until the end of the current term, June 30, 2027. McCauley was selected through…

Peer support groups, mental health resources

Chronicle News Service·

SPRINGFIELD – NAMI Lane County, a grassroots, peer-led organization focused on supporting individuals with mental health conditions and their families, provides free resources, education, and advocacy in Lane County. The NAMI Lane County Resource Center at 129 9th St. in Springfield is open Mondays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. In-person meetings■ NAMI Connection Recovery…

OHA invests $25 million in community health

Chronicle News Service·

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has awarded $25 million in public health equity grants to 125 nonprofit organizations to support community-led programs. The funding through OHA’s Partnerships for Community Health Program will support the work of community-based organizations from Jan. 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, across nine program areas. Local grant recipients: ■ Family…

SO CLOSE: Millers lose title game, already ‘working hard to get another chance’ coach says

Ron Hartman – Reporter·

McMINNVILLE – The “stars” just didn’t line up in Springfield’s favor in this year’s Class 5A Girls Basketball State Championship game. Payton Starwalt scored 26 points and extended her all-classification record for 3-pointers in a season with 136 as West Albany – fittingly a long shot as the No. 5 seed – held on for…

Colts fall short of ultimate goal

Eli Thomas·

McMINNVILLE – Defense has been the story all season for the Thurston Colts. They held five opponents to season-low point totals, and allowed the fewest points in Class 5A during the regular season. When they were down 13 points in the fourth quarter of their quarterfinal playoff game against Summit, they needed their trademark defense.…

Drifters trio hitting stride; Ducks’ Twist standing out

Knight Jarecki·

SPRINGFIELD – Three 2025 Springfield Drifters – Cesar Chavez, Andrew Gauna, and Sonny Pena all had their best week of baseball this season. Chavez, an outfielder at Cal State Los Angeles, went 10-for-15 at the plate in four games against Cal State Stanislaus. He batted .900 with 9 hits over the final three games of…

2025-26 WINTER SPORTS SUPERLATIVES

Chronicle Staff Report·

BOYS BASKETBALL THURSTONALL-MIDWESTERN LEAGUE■ Player of the year: Lucas LaBounty (second consecutive year)■ Defensive player of the year: Logan PiquetteFirst team■ Treyson HillSecond team■ Leofatu FilipeHonorable mention■ Logan PiquetteALL-STATE TOURNAMENTFirst team■ Lucas LaBounty SPRINGFIELDALL-MIDWESTERN LEAGUEHonorable mention■ Noah Solo■ Lejhaun Henderson COTTAGE GROVEALL-SKY EM LEAGUEFirst team■ Trevor CooperAll-Defensive Team■ Cade MayHonorable mention■ Cade May■ Tai Lam■…

Finding a moment of calm in turbulent waters

FRANK ARMENDARIZ for The Chronicle·

In these turbulent times, the impact of current events is widespread, affecting people of all ages and sectors of society. We are constantly bombarded by media across all platforms with often negative news. As a baby boomer born in the mid-20th century, I have witnessed incredible changes and advancements – from the mere dreams of…

Legal Notices: Edition of March 19, 2026

admin·

TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE File No. 23-00278OR Reference is made to that certain deed of trust made by Johnna Sangston and Nonda Gabbard, as grantor, to Cascade Title Company, as trustee, in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as designated nominee for Finance of America Mortgage LLC, beneficiary of the…

CGHS CTE: Students exploring, learning real-world skills

Ashlin Sanderson·

COTTAGE GROVE – During a tour organized by the Lane Education Service District, community members and other schools had the chance to explore the career technical education (CTE) programs that Cottage Grove High School (CGHS) offers. Five CTE student ambassadors led a tour of the school through nine classrooms with CTE programs. The programs are…

Beyond the Books: City staff lends crucial support

Ashlin Sanderson·

SPRINGFIELD – As this special Springfield Public Library series comes to an end, one relationship that is deserving of a mention – arguably the most important one – is with city departments. Security and custodial staff help the library operate smoothly every day to guarantee its functions for the community. “We really couldn’t offer all…

SPS board fills vacant seat

Ashlin Sanderson·

SPRINGFIELD – On Monday night, Springfield Public Schools board members appointed Robert (Bob) Brew as a new board member, but only after deadlocking on the decision three times. From a pool of 13 applicants, board members narrowed the selection to three candidates who might fill the vacant seat left by Heather Quaas-Annsa. Matthew Brandt is…

UO students partner with Habitat for homes in the Grove

Ashlin Sanderson·

CRESWELL – University of Oregon students and Habitat for Humanity of Central Lane officials hosted a public meeting on March 4 at the Creswell Grange to share their designs for an affordable housing Cottage Cluster in Cottage Grove. Habitat is building the cluster of homes at 676 N. 11th St. and will contain five multi-generational…

ROLLING OUT THE GOOD TIMES: Hightower launches ’personalized’ mobile charcuterie bar cart

Ashlin Sanderson·

SPRINGFIELD – Sabrina Hightower moved to Oregon 15 years ago and changed her life. She transitioned from being a stay-at-home mom for 12 years to running a family business with her husband and children involved. Charcuterie Bar Creations offers a personalized selection of individually served charcuterie creations. Relocating from California, Hightower initially moved to Oregon…

Springfield Chamber Depot renovations moving forward on Main St.

Ashlin Sanderson·

SPRINGFIELD – On Feb. 2, the Springfield City Council adopted an alternate contracting method for repairs of the historic Springfield Depot and railcar, advancing the renovation process on track. At the Jan. 12 work session, the council provided direction to proceed with a design-build contracting method for deferred maintenance at the depot. A public hearing…

EAC director has vision, passion

Sarina Dorie – Arts Writer·

SPRINGFIELD – Sometimes you meet a real-life Wonder Woman. Such is the case of Melissa Green, a Renaissance woman in the arts, a teacher, advocate, and artist who has done so much for environmental conservation and arts education, and is the new director at the Emerald Art Center at 500 Main St. Green is a…

South Lane Wheels still in operation

Ashlin Sanderson·

COTTAGE GROVE – Despite a new pilot in rural South Lane County from Lane Transit District (LTD) that launched on March 2, South Lane Wheels (SLW) continues to operate. The nonprofit based in Cottage Grove has served as a transportation lifeline for rural residents in the area. For more than 40 years, SLW has been…

Family center opens in Thurston

Chronicle News Service·

THURSTON – Community leaders, project partners, and residents gathered on Feb. 28 for the grand opening and ribbon-cutting of the Joyce A. Langeliers Family Center in Thurston. Developed by the Thurston Life Foundation, the center at 5807 A St. aims to foster connection and support for youth and families.

ODOT secures funding, avoids layoffs amid budget shortfall

Chronicle News Service·

SALEM – Oregon Department of Transportation officials said they will avoid layoffs and significant service cuts following the passage of legislation to address a $297 million budget shortfall in the agency’s maintenance and operations. The measure redirects $218 million from existing state transportation funds, allowing highway maintenance crews to remain on the job, while safety…

State February jobs report: Employment rises nearly 1 point for small-businesses

Chronicle News Service·

SALEM – In response to the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) monthly Jobs Report, Oregon State Director Anthony Smith voiced concerns about the state’s economic climate. The report indicated a slight increase in the Small Business Employment Index, rising nearly 1 point to 103.5, surpassing both the 2025 average of 101.2 and the historical…

Groundbreaking ceremony at CHS

Chronicle News Service·

CRESWELL –The Creswell School District has officially kicked off construction on its new Career and Technical Education (CTE) Building at Creswell High School, thanks to strong community support for the district’s bond measure. The groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for Monday, March 16, at 4:30 p.m. at Creswell High School, 33390 Niblock Lane. Attendees will include…

Phone scammers posing as deputies

Chronicle News Service·

LANE COUNTY – Lane County residents are once again being targeted by phone scammers impersonating employees of the Lane County Sheriff’s Office. These scammers typically present themselves as sergeants and claim there are warrants, missed jury duty, or unresolved legal issues. They may even offer to assist with bail for family members in jail. The…

Creswell woman charged with burglary, mischief

Chronicle News Service·

CRESWELL – LCSO deputies responded to a report of a disorderly subject in the 200 block of Creswood Drive in the early hours of Feb. 23. Upon arrival, deputies found 25-year-old Aiyana Elizabeth Roy of Creswell naked and allegedly injured. Roy reportedly broke into a nearby home and assaulted an elderly resident, causing significant injuries.…

Phone scammers posing as deputies

Chronicle News Service·

LANE COUNTY – Lane County residents are once again being targeted by phone scammers impersonating employees of the Lane County Sheriff’s Office. These scammers typically present themselves as sergeants and claim there are warrants, missed jury duty, or unresolved legal issues. They may even offer to assist with bail for family members in jail. The…

SPD investigating attempted kidnapping

Chronicle News Service·

SPRINGFIELD – On Feb.18, the Springfield Police Department received a report alleging that a man attempted to kidnap an 8-year-old child in the area of Gateway Street and Harlow Road. Officers responded promptly and initiated a thorough investigation into the allegation, including interviewing the involved child and their parent, canvassing for potential witnesses, and reviewing…

Springfield man arrested after fleeing in Veneta

Chronicle News Service·

VENETA – On March 1 at 9:30 a.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a vehicle trespassing in the 25100-block of East Broadway Avenue, Veneta. The vehicle description matched a vehicle that had recently fled from Eugene Police officers. The suspected driver, David Johnathan Guggenmos, 41, of Springfield, had a felony warrant…

Domestic violence case leads to pursuit in Springfield

Chronicle News Service·

SPRINGFIELD – On March 5 at 12:20 p.m., Springfield Police responded to a house call in the 600-block of Lochaven Avenue regarding a disorderly subject. Initial investigation determined there was probable cause to arrest the suspect, Kevin Wayne Downs, 60. Downs left before officers arrived and could not be located. Around 6:30 p.m., an officer…

LCSO deputy assaulted in jail

Chronicle News Service·

EUGENE – On March 5 at 11:30 a.m. at the Lane County Jail, a Lane County Sheriff’s deputy assisted a nurse with medication distribution in a housing area. John Paul Lockhart, 62, of Medford, was out of his cell for his dayroom time, which custodians are given throughout the day in all housing areas. As…

Drain man killed in crash

Chronicle News Service·

YONCALLA – A Drain man died in a single-vehicle crash on March 6 near Yoncalla. Shortly after 2:45 p.m. on March 6, 9-1-1 dispatchers received a report of a vehicle crash in the 10000-block of Elkhead Road. The crash was discovered by a delivery truck driver, who alerted the homeowner. The first arriving deputy discovered…

Ensuring people are heard: Councilor Kori Rodley speaks out about ICE

GUEST COLUMN·

Editor’s Note: On Feb. 17, Springfield City Councilor Kori Rodley of Ward 1 addressed the council and the audience during a regular meeting. This came in response to residents who urged city officials to issue proclamations or statements regarding ICE’s federal immigration enforcement tactics in their city. Below are excerpts from her speech. I want…

Riverview Center to continue services after youth program cuts

Chronicle News Service·

SPRINGFIELD – Riverview Center for Growth, a nonprofit mental health organization, announced that all its programs will continue operating despite Lane County ending its Youth Mobile Crisis Response contract. The Mobile Crisis Response and Stabilization Program will conclude at the end of April after over 20 years of service, as the county will take over…

Springfield earns kudos for bike safety

Chronicle News Service·

SPRINGFIELD – The City of Springfield has been awarded a Silver-level designation as a Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists in recognition of Springfield’s efforts to enhance bicycle safety, accessibility, and convenience for residents and visitors. The designation, which is valid until 2029, follows a detailed review of the city’s biking programs…

Multiple stolen firearms found, suspect at large in Noti

Chronicle News Service·

NOTI – On Jan. 30, a homeowner in the 15700-block of Highway 36 in Deadwood reported a burglary of several firearms and other items. On Feb. 12, an Oregon State Police (OSP) detective located the suspect vehicle near Armitage Park north of Eugene. It was occupied by one of the suspects, Tina Jean Devault, 57,…

Man sentenced for killing with crossbow in Springfield

Chronicle News Service·

SPRINGFIELD – On Feb. 13, Lane County Circuit Court Judge Debra K. Vogt sentenced Isaac Henry McGrew to 25 years in prison and 36 months of post-prison supervision for the killing of Dustin Lee Shelton on Sept. 28, 2023. In mid-2023, McGrew was angry that his ex-girlfriend was spending time with Shelton. McGrew sent numerous…

Springfield man gets 12 years for hate crime

Chronicle News Service·

EUGENE – A Springfield man was sentenced federal prison on March 3 for a federal hate crime after assaulting a victim on the basis of their sexual orientation. Daniel Andrew McGee, 26, was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release. “Hate crimes impact not just individuals, but entire communities,”…

International Women's Day in CG: Empowerment, celebration

Chronicle Staff Report·

COTTAGE GROVE – On International Women’s Day 2026, held on March 8, thousands of protesters globally joined marches to demand gender equality, an end to sexual violence, and call for peace. About a dozen community members gathered in downtown Cottage Grove to showcase women’s collective power to resist, spotlight the impact of noncompliance, and express…

Millers girls cruise in playoff opener, set sights on state title

Eli Thomas·

SPRINGFIELD – The No. 2 Springfield Millers took control of their first-round playoff matchup immediately this past Saturday. Darissa Romero Ah-Sam’s smooth perimeter shooting, along with a stifling defense that forced numerous turnovers, made the game’s outcome feel obvious early. At the end of the first quarter, the Millers led 18-1. By the time the…

Colts continue march toward boys state title

Seth Thompson·

THURSTON – The No. 4 Thurston Colts took down No. 13 Ridgeview (13-12) 57-40 on Friday in the first round of the OSAA Class 5A state playoffs.While they ended the first half tied at 20, the Colts were able to pull away in the third quarter. The Colts outscored the Ravens 15-3 in this period,…

Tough end for Melvin, Billies

Ron Hartman – Reporter·

COOS BAY – As the No. 4 seed, Pleasant Hill went to Coos Bay with high hopes, expecting to make some noise in the 3A Boys State Basketball Tournament. In the end, the Billies finished in sixth place, one of the most disappointing results in this year’s field. It wasn’t all bad for the Billies…

Mildred 'Bobbie' Mahoney: April 2, 1945 – Feb. 28, 2026

Chronicle News Service·

Bobbie Mahoney (Mildred Roberta Werder) of Springfield, OR passed away February 28, 2026, in Eugene, Oregon. Bobbie was preceded by her parents, Mildred and Hayes Werder, and her husband, Patrick E. Mahoney, whom she married in 1976. “Third time is a charm,” she had said, and it really was. (Bobbie had been married twice before,…

Creswell boys earn season split vs. Pleasant Hill; 4th at state

Ron Hartman – Reporter·

COOS BAY – It was the dream matchup that nobody thought would materialize. But it was really happening. Creswell against Pleasant Hill. On the final day of the 3A Boys State Basketball Tournament.There was only one little problem … they weren’t playing in the championship game, they were playing for fourth place. They were also…

Creswell girls basketball achieves best state finish in its history

Ron Hartman – Reporter·

By RON [email protected] COOS BAY – Creswell seniors Elliette Kinney and Kylie Leonard were not going to end their high school careers with a whimper. So they made sure to go out with a bang. Facing Mountain Valley Conference rival Sisters in Thursday’s quarterfinal round of the 3A Girls State Championship, Kinney and Leonard led…

Billies girls earn Sportsmanship honor

Ron Hartman – Reporter·

COOS BAY – The Pleasant Hill girls knew they needed a miracle in their game against Amity on Thursday – and a miracle happened! It just wasn’t the kind the seventh-seeded Billies had in mind. Facing defending champion Amity, as the final second ticked down before halftime, senior guard Alyssa McMullen swished a 55-footer at…

1st round: Creswell stumbles in opener

Eli Thomas·

COSS BAY — The 7th seed Creswell Bulldogs went into halftime against the 2nd seed Cascade Christian Challengers relatively optimistic. They had scored 14 points, a first half season-low and their only game below 20. Despite that, they were only down eight points. “They were like, ‘man, we played so bad and we’re only down…

Klee throws first career shutout

Knight Jarecki·

DRIFTERS DEBRIEF There weren’t many college pitchers better than Drifters right-hander Jack Klee this weekend, as the Chemeketa product threw his first career shutout on Saturday for the Storm. Klee, who pitched for the Drifters last summer and will return this year, only allowed three hits across nine scoreless innings with a season high eight…

Green’s second shot at USGA Amateur title is a team effort

Steve Mims FOR THE CHRONICLE·

CRESWELL – Not many people would have expected Calvin Green to play in multiple USGA national championships when he arrived at Thurston High School. The Springfield native played basketball and soccer in elementary school before trying out golf in middle school. He started off taking weekly lessons every few months and then signed up for…

Colts boys basketball rally falls short at state

Eli Thomas·

Amelia Solt / Special to The Chronicle By Eli Thomas The Chronicle McMINNVILLE – Two red-hot teams faced off in the Class 5A quarterfinals on Thursday at Linfield University. Either Thurston or Summit had to prevail, but the spectators might have ended up the real winners, given the spectacular game.  With just over a minute…

PeakCU scholarships available

Ashlin Sanderson·

LANE COUNTY – The Peak Credit Union Foundation is inviting applications for its scholarship programs, which aim to support students in Washington and Oregon as the March 15 deadline approaches. Across Washington and Oregon, the Foundation has invested nearly $1.8 million in education and food security initiatives. “It’s just a fantastic way to give back…

Legal Notices: Edition of March 12, 2026

admin·

PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE  OF SUBDIVISION  NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Creswell Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing in Creswell City Hall on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 5:00p.m., in order to hear the following: Case No. SUB-2026-01 a request by Nathan Marple, to subdivide 9.4 acres into 46 lots. The application proposes…