Forum: Issues, ideas at the fore for Lane County Commissioner Springfield candidates

Ashlin Sanderson·

SPRINGFIELD – Last Thursday, the Springfield City Club and the League of Women Voters of Lane County hosted a forum for the Springfield seat on the Lane County Board of County Commissioners. The free event featured facilitated and audience questions for all three candidates running for the position. The Board of County Commissioners legislates and…

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Church opens third Temple in Oregon

Ashlin Sanderson·

SPRINGFIELD – A Willamette Valley Oregon Temple just opened its doors this week. The property at 300 International Way in Springfield has been under construction since Oct. 2022, and now through May 9 (excluding Sundays), folks can see what lies inside the 30,000-square-foot building. There are 154,000 Latter-day Saints in Oregon, yet only two temples…

ARE YOU READY TO VOTE IN LANE COUNTY?

Chronicle News Service·

■ Register by April 28 for May election ■ Election Day is approaching, and the Lane County Elections office staff encourages residents to register to vote or update their voter registration now, to be election-ready for the May 19 primary election. Voters in Lane County must register to vote or make changes to their party…

Community Invited to ‘Gather & Give’ for new neighbors

Chronicle News Service·

EUGENE – Catholic Community Services of Lane County invites the community to Gather & Give: A Night for New Neighbors, a fundraiser benefiting the agency’s Refugee & Immigrant Services Program (RISP) on Monday, April 28, 5-8 p.m. at The Garden on Friendly, 2760 Friendly St., Eugene. The evening will feature live music, raffle baskets, and…

An open letter: Pass the levy, give fire department resources

Don Williams for The Chronicle·

My name has been familiar in the South Lane area for the past 50 years. I have been a volunteer with many organizations and have chaired committees – fire department, hospital, Bohemia Mining Days, and others. Many young first-time voters in South Lane may not be familiar with me and my support of SLCFR. In…

Judge Kapoor top option for Lane County Circuit Court

GUEST COLUMN·

Editor’s note: Amit Kapoor is a Lane County Circuit Court Judge, serving in the 2nd District, Position 6. Appointed by Gov. Kate Brown in 2020, he is facing a contested election in May 2026 against attorney Katina Saint Marie. Dear Editor, I had the privilege of clerking for Judge Amit Kapoor and witnessing firsthand how…

Judge Kapoor best choice for Lane County Circuit Court

GUEST COLUMN·

Editor’s note: Amit Kapoor is a Lane County Circuit Court Judge, serving in the 2nd District, Position 6. Appointed by Gov. Kate Brown in 2020, he is facing a contested election in May 2026 against attorney Katina Saint Marie. Dear Editor, I am writing to express my strong support for Judge Amit Kapoor as a…

BACK ON TRACK: Pleasant Hill senior still sprinting toward goals

Steve Mims FOR THE CHRONICLE·

PLEASANT HILL – Most of the moments immediately following a tragic car accident remain unclear for Ryan Thomas, but her mom recalled one of the initial worries. “The first thing she asked was, ‘Am I going to be able to run again?’,” Kristi Bryant recalled of the question Ryan would ask from her hospital bed.…

Billies batters continue torrid start

Eli Thomas·

CRESWELL – After an 18-2 run-rule victory in Game One of its softball doubleheader against rival Creswell, Pleasant Hill was looking to continue its offensive dominance. In the top of the second inning of Game Two, Billies freshman Zeta Holmes crushed a ball to dead center field, and it cleared the fence for a home…

A Giant start: Former Drifters pitcher stars for Emeralds

Steve Mims FOR THE CHRONICLE·

SPRINGFIELD – Hunter Dryden has gone from a Drifter to an Emerald.The 23-year-old right-handed pitcher spent the summers of 2022 and ’23 pitching for Springfield at Hamlin Sports Complex before being drafted by the San Francisco Giants in the 17th round of the 2024 Major League Baseball draft. After a sterling pro debut in San…

Drifters pitching alums, newcomers stand out; UO’s Cooney has breakout series

Knight Jarecki·

SPRINGFIELD – Drifters pitchers, past and present, excelled over the weekend, with several dominant, low-contact performances.Hunter Dryden (a 2022, ’23) fanned five over four hitless innings for the Eugene Emeralds, and future Drifters Griffin Scott and Lucas Geren each had scoreless outings for Lane Community College in wins against Clackamas. Scott struck out seven over…

Baseball previews

Eli Thomas·

THURSTON (8-7, 3-4, #9)■ Leading off: Thurston has three league matchups this week. On Saturday, they welcome No. 21 Eagle Point (5-8, 4-2) for a doubleheader after playing Game One of the series in Eagle Point on Wednesday. On Tuesday, the Colts play No. 1 in Class 5A Crater (11-2, 3-1). The Comets took two…

Softball previews

Eli Thomas·

THURSTON (0-15, 0-6, #28)■ Leading off: Thurston has three league matchups this week. On Saturday, it welcomes No. 17 Eagle Point (9-4, 5-1) for a doubleheader after playing game one of the series in Eagle Point on Wednesday. On Tuesday, the Colts travel to play No. 2 Crater (8-3, 3-0) in the first of a…

Baseball recaps

Eli Thomas·

■ THURSTON was swept by No. 2 in Class 5A North Eugene last week. In Game One, the Colts lost 7-3. Grady Saunders threw 5 1/3 innings, with only three of his seven runs allowed being earned. He also went 3-for-4 at the plate with a double. In the second game of Saturday’s doubleheader, the…

Softball recaps

Eli Thomas·

■ THURSTON lost all three games to North Eugene last week. The Highlanders won Game One 10-6. Raygan Litle was 2-for-3, with a HR and 3 RBI. Game Two finished 18-6 Highlanders. Litle was the Colts’ standout once again, with 2 HRs and 4 RBI. The Highlanders took Game Three 14-4. Syren Ferguson was 3-for-3,…

Track & Field previews and recaps

Eli Thomas·

PREVIEWS ■ THURSTON and SPRINGFIELD compete in a dual meet on Wednesday. Expect Springfield to dominate the throwing events, while Thurston likely has the edge on the track and in the jumping pits. RECAPS ■ On April 11, COTTAGE GROVE, PLEASANT HILL, and CRESWELL competed at the Aaron and Marie Jones Invitational, which had 24…

Legal Notices: Edition of April 23, 2026

admin·

TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE File No. 25-00780OR Reference is made to that certain deed of trust made by Ian Matthew Fleming and Derrika Lynn Fleming, as grantor, to Old Republic National Title Insurance Company, as trustee, in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as designated nominee for Mortgage Research Center,…

Durward Kenneth Parramore: Aug. 29, 1945 – April 3, 2026

Chronicle News Service·

Kenneth Parramore, 80, of Creswell, OR, passed away Friday, April 3, 2026.  He was born August 29, 1945, in Dothan, AL, to Durward and Inez Starling Parramore.   He graduated from Dothan High School in 1963 and from Auburn University in 1968 with a B.S. in History, a lifelong interest.   Ken set out to see…

Creswell City Council votes to leave county program

Erin Tierney-Heggenstaller – Executive Editor·

CRESWELL – The City of Creswell has officially broken the mold, as the council unanimously authorized the city manager, Vincent Martorello, to terminate the intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with Lane County, citing rising costs and issues permeating the county’s relationship with the waste hauler. Since early 2022, Lane County has been planning the construction of the…

Grove budget shortfall: Council ‘righting the ship’ before financial deficits sink the City

Ashlin Sanderson·

COTTAGE GROVE – Incomplete financial audits and accounting inaccuracies have led the City of Cottage Grove to address budget challenges for the next fiscal year. In January of this year, interim finance director Eric Kytola shared his findings of the City’s budgeting errors with the city council. “There were some problems that surfaced about the…

Springfield library supporters call for action

Ashlin Sanderson·

SPRINGFIELD – A community group called Save Springfield Library is organizing library supporters to attend upcoming budget committee meetings to ensure decision-makers are aware of public support for the Springfield Public Library. The call to action serves as an opportunity for folks who care about the library and its services and do not want to…

Free compost giveaway at Rexius

Chronicle News Service·

Master recycling volunteers help load bagged compost as part of a free giveaway at Rexius on highway 99 in Eugene on April 11, 2026. Vehicles line up to enter the facility for free compost giveaway at Rexius on highway 99 in Eugene on April 11, 2026. GLENWOOD – Each Lane County household on April 11…

Experts help shape Oregon’s new battery recycling law

Daniel Hiestand – WasteWise·

When I sit down with my colleague, Lane County Waste Reduction Program Supervisor Angie Marzano, our conversations often drift toward one big idea: companies shouldn’t get to shrug and walk away once a product is sold. Angie’s convinced – and I think she’s right – that businesses have a responsibility to make sure their products…

School Board recognizes Dorena School honor

Ashlin Sanderson·

COTTAGE GROVE – During an April 6 South Lane School District Board meeting, Dorena School was nationally recognized by Solution Tree as a Promising Practices School. A professional development company that publishes educational materials and offers various services and products, including books, videos, consultations, online courses, workshops, and conferences for educators, recognized Dorena for having…

Pink blooms, itchy eyes: What’s blooming on Centennial?

Chronicle News Service·

SPRINGFIELD – Springfield is in full bloom, as captured by Chronicle photographer Adon Eccles. The pink-flowering trees that bloom in early spring along Centennial Boulevard and nearby areas in Springfield are primarily ornamental cherry trees (Prunus genus), including deep-pink “Kwanzan” and light-pink “Akebono” varieties. Other common early-spring pink bloomers in the area include flowering plums…

Oregon forests see over 2M seedlings planted

Chronicle News Service·

A mild winter and spring-like weather have allowed the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) to plant approximately 2 million seedlings in state forests, putting them ahead of schedule for the season. The seedlings, primarily Douglas Fir (74%), are part of a reforestation strategy that includes Hemlock, Western Red Cedar, Noble Fir, and others to promote…

Creswell Middle School FBLA team takes 1st at state

Chronicle News Service·

CRESWELL – The Creswell Middle School Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Chapter achieved remarkable success at the FBLA State Competition held from April 9-11, 2026, securing 1st place among all middle school chapters. The team earned a total of 47 individual awards, including 18 prestigious 1st Place State Champion Awards for “Top 10 finishes.”…

Genealogical Society honors military history

Chronicle News Service·

COTTAGE GROVE – As the Cottage Grove Genealogical Society delves into the rich history of local servicemen and women, a heartfelt tribute is taking shape, honoring their bravery and sacrifice. CGGS is hosting a Military Open House on Wednesday, April 22, from 1 to 6 p.m., in the Shepherd Room at the Community Center, at…

Church offers ‘open house’ for Willamette Valley Temple

GUEST COLUMN·

By ANGELINE ROWE and STEWART WINDERFOR THE CHRONICLE SPRINGFIELD – Peeking out above the trees and tucked into a bend of the McKenzie River is a white spire. And at its base? The recently completed Willamette Valley Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Prior to its scheduled dedication this June, there…

‘Healthcare for All’ town hall is April 19

Chronicle News Service·

EUGENE – Health Care for All Oregon Lane County Chapter is hosting a Town Hall on Sunday, April 19, from 2-4 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 1685 W. 13th Ave. The discussion will center on Oregon’s potential transition to Universal Healthcare, featuring members of the Universal Health Plan Governance Board. Health Care for All…

Will family forests thrive, be sustainable?

GUEST COLUMN·

By Gordon Culbertson Driving the backroads of Oregon, one notices the presence of small woodland owners. Signs indicating “Family Forest Owner” and the green-and-white diamond-shaped “Tree Farm” logo identify forests as well-managed, with a measure of pride. Family non-industrial forests total over 3.5 million acres, more than one-third of Oregon’s private forests. These forest owners…

Buch’s patterns aren’t a public service

GUEST COLUMN·

Dear Editor: This in response to a letter calling some of the commissioners, one issue candidates. My response is the true one-trick pony in the Lane County commissioner race is incumbent Heather Buch. Her single, well-practiced trick is collecting more taxes and fees to pay for the things she wants to spend our money on.…

Fireside right choice for District 7

GUEST COLUMN·

Dear Editor: I’m tired of politicians who campaign but don’t fight. With my own eyes, I’ve seen how Ky Fireside is different. Ky, running for Oregon House District 7, has shown what real public service looks like. They show up, do the work, and stand with working families when it matters. Ky helped lead Oregon’s…

Rotary Club of Cottage Grove to host leadership seminar

Chronicle News Service·

Event features international author Michael Angelo Caruso COTTAGE GROVE – The Rotary Club of Cottage Grove will host a professional development seminar led by international author and speaker Michael Angelo Caruso. The event, titled “Effective Leadership – Getting People to Do Stuff,” is scheduled for May 14, 2026, at the Cottage Grove Community Center, 700…

Legal Notices: Edition of April 16, 2026

admin·

TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE File No. 25-00780OR Reference is made to that certain deed of trust made by Ian Matthew Fleming and Derrika Lynn Fleming, as grantor, to Old Republic National Title Insurance Company, as trustee, in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as designated nominee for Mortgage Research Center,…

Diamond dustup: Teams vie for field time

Eli Thomas·

Creswell’s baseball facility hosted a Bulldogs Invitational earlier this season. / Photo by ADON ECCLES This story was updated after print deadlines. Creswell School District Superintendent Mike Johnson posted a letter on the school’s Facebook page in response to coverage and community interest. BY ELI THOMAS THE CHRONICLE CRESWELL – Creswell High School’s baseball field,…

Together, again: Neely, Melvin commit to George Fox University

Eli Thomas·

PLEASANT HILL – Jacob Neely and Landen Melvin, two of the Pleasant Hill Billies’ standout senior athletes this past season, have committed to play for George Fox University next year, the largest private university in the state. Attending college together for the Division III Bruins should be a comfortable fit. “It’s just amazing. We’ve been…

Boys & girls Track & Field previews

Eli Thomas·

■ SPRINGFIELD hosts Churchill in a dual meet on Wednesday. In the Millers other dual meet so far this season, against Marist, it dominated the throwing events, led by Noah Solo and Sailor Hall. ■ On Saturday, THURSTON will be in the John Oliver Invitational. This is one of the biggest meets every year for…

Drifters debrief: Drifters commit throws complete-game one-hitter for UC-Davis

Knight Jarecki·

SPRINGFIELD – Keenan Anzai, who will join the Drifters this summer, tossed a complete game one-hitter against Cal State-Bakersfield on Thursday for UC Davis in his best start of the season. The right-hander from Trabuco Canyon, Calif., fanned six batters across nine scoreless innings while walking just two on 102 pitches en route to his…

Softball recaps

Eli Thomas·

■ THURSTON lost to Churchill 15-11 in its league opener. The Colts held an 11-9 lead heading into the top of the seventh, when a walk, an error, and two singles with two outs helped the Lancers score five of their six runs in the inning. For the Colts, Ella Wright was 3-for-4 with two…

Softball previews

Chronicle Staff Report·

THURSTON (0-12, #28) ■ Leading off: Thurston has three league matchups this week. On Saturday, it travels to No. 12 North Eugene (5-4, 0-1) for a doubleheader to finish their three-game series. On Tuesday, the Colts welcome No. 10 Eagle Point (5-3, 1-0) for the start of a three-game series. Last season, the Eagles won…

Baseball previews

Eli Thomas·

THURSTON (7-4, #7) ■ Leading off: Thurston has three league matchups this week. On Saturday, they travel to No. 8 North Eugene (5-3, 1-1) for a doubleheader to finish a three-game series. Last season, the Colts swept the Highlanders, scoring 31 runs over three games. On Tuesday, they travel to No. 21 Eagle Point (3-8,…

Baseball recaps

Eli Thomas·

■ THURSTON took two games out of three against Churchill in its first league series of the season. The Lancers won Game One, 6-4. The Lancers’ top five hitters had nine of the team’s 10 hits and all six RBI. In Game One on Saturday, the Colts won 9-3. Grady Saunders had a massive day…

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITIES: Kids 'hop to it' at egg hunts around the area

Erin Tierney-Heggenstaller – Executive Editor·

Saturday was a big day for small humans, as spring and Easter egg hunts dotted communities under a sun that cracked the skies, with temperatures rising pleasantly into the mid-60s. In Creswell, Hillside Church organized an Easter egg hunt at Creslane Elementary School. The 6th and Gibbs Church of Christ hosted a hunt at Bohemia…

Springfield payroll tax is moving forward

Ashlin Sanderson·

SPRINGFIELD – City councilors are moving forward with a .1% rate as a proposed employer and employee payroll tax, which was discussed during Monday night’s city council meeting. The proposed rate is estimated to generate $2.45 million within the first year of implementation. The decision is part of a multi-pronged approach to stabilize the City’s…

PeaceHealth opening 1st brain injury clinic

Ashlin Sanderson·

SPRINGFIELD – PeaceHealth is set to open Oregon’s first traumatic brain injury (TBI) unit this summer once construction is complete on the facility’s new inpatient rehabilitation hospital. The specially designed 67,000-square-foot hospital will include an open dining area, an apartment, two gyms, nursing units, and an outdoor area. ALL PHOTOS BY BOB WILLIAMS / THE…

Claims of library staff cuts spark resident backlash

Ashlin Sanderson·

SPRINGFIELD – Library supporters filled the City Council Chambers at City Hall in Springfield on April 6, after a social media post circulated online over the weekend claiming that library positions have been terminated and programs and services are expected to be reduced. According to the post by Ariel Sexton, the City of Springfield quietly…

Cabaret: Using ‘art as protest’ at Cottage Theatre

Sarina Dorie – Arts Writer·

COTTAGE GROVE – In a bold artistic endeavor that intertwines entertainment and activism, Cottage Theatre’s production of “Cabaret” captivates audiences with its haunting portrayal of love and defiance amidst the rise of fascism. Set in 1931 in Berlin during a turbulent political era, the play is a semi-autobiographical novel about Christopher Isherwood, an English and…

Missing direction:Trashion loses traction in Grove

Ashlin Sanderson·

COTTAGE GROVE – An annual Cottage Grove arts event will not take place this year after an unsuccessful search for a director. Trashion at the OPAL Center for Arts and Education has been a fashion show for folks to flaunt unique upcycled materials turned clothing for nearly 20 years. “I decided last year that I…

Riders earn honors at OHSET meet

Ron Hartman – Reporter·

EUGENE – Think you could take care of a horse? Many horses have their own chiropractors, their own team of doctors, their own dentists. Many wear braces. They need to be fed around the clock, groomed, exercised, cared for … and basically welcomed into the family. “We would be having dinner, and my girls would…

Springfield art Walk features photo exhibit

Chronicle News Service·

Bohrer’s work all about ‘Plants and Animals of Oregon’ SPRINGFIELD – The Springfield Arts Commission invites the community to experience Plants and Animals in Oregon, a photography exhibition by Twyla Bohrer, on display throughout April at the City Hall Gallery inside Springfield City Hall, 225 Fifth Street. An opening reception will be held Friday, April…

Lane Transit fills leadership roles

Chronicle News Service·

Lane Transit District has filled two executive-level positions, following an intensive search, company officials said. LTD’s new chief financial officer is Pamela Strutz, and its new general counsel is Carmen Jackson-Brown. Strutz brings over 45 years of expertise in finance and accounting to her role. Starting as LTD’s controller in 2020, Strutz then became LTD’s…

SUB reveals four finalists for CEO/GM position

Chronicle News Service·

SPRINGFIELD – Springfield Utility Board (SUB) last week announced it has identified four finalists in its search for the utility’s next CEO/general manager. The selected candidate will succeed Jeff Nelson, who will retire this summer after 14 years in the role and more than 30 years of service to SUB. SUB worked with an executive…

Grove woman dies in fire at Relax Inn

Chronicle News Service·

COTTAGE GROVE — On April 2, just after 2:30 a.m., officers with the Cottage Grove Police Department were on patrol in the 1200 block of N. Hwy. 99 when they observed flames and smoke coming from the Relax Inn, located at 1030 N. Hwy. 99. PHOTOS BY BOB WILLIAMS / THE CHRONICLE The officers immediately…

VanGordon cares about Springfield; join me in voting for him

GUEST COLUMN·

Dear Editor, Sean VanGordon cares. He cares about the Springfield area community and the individuals, families, and businesses that make it up. And, because he cares, no matter who you are, he listens. Sean and I served together on the Springfield City Council from 2011. During the last 2 years I served, 2021-2022, Sean began…

Recognizing, reporting child abuse

Chronicle News Service·

People are encouraged to learn the warning signs of child abuse and to confidentially report any child safety concerns they have to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). The Oregon Child Abuse Hotline receives calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Three warning signs Physical signs…

Community needs survey underway

Chronicle News Service·

Lane County Community members are invited to participate in the 2026 Community Needs Survey, which evaluates the essential services offered by Lane County Housing and Community Action (HACA). This survey focuses on housing, shelter, basic needs, education, employment, transportation, and health. As part of its mission to support low-income families in overcoming poverty, Lane County…

One sweet purchase can make an impact

Chronicle News Service·

SPRINGFIELD – What if dessert was dinner — and eating it helped a neighbor in need? Catholic Community Services of Lane County (CCS) and Springfield Mayor Sean VanGordon invite the community to join the seventh annual Dessert for Dinner fundraiser, running now through May 9. This initiative aims to help local families in need by…

ODE: Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.2% in January

Chronicle News Service·

Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.2% in January and 5.3%, as revised, in December. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.3% in January and 4.4% in December, according to a news release last week issued by the Oregon Employment Department (OED). In January, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment rose by 2,000 jobs, following a gain of…

Thurston’s Liberatore resigns with championship legacy

Steve Mims FOR THE CHRONICLE·

THURSTON – After leading Thurston to three straight Midwestern League boys basketball titles for the first time in more than a half-century, Blaine Liberatore is leaving on top. Liberatore, who led Thurston to the 2018 Class 5A boys state basketball title, announced his resignation as coach during a team banquet on Monday night after 12…

Colts stand out in the elements

Eli Thomas·

THURSTON – The conditions for the Colts’ meet against Churchill on Wednesday, April 1, were as far from ideal as it gets for track athletes. Wet surfaces made everything difficult, and a direct headwind on the home stretch made it nearly impossible for short distance runners to have a chance at setting a personal best.…

Drifters Debrief: Dryden leads Emeralds to victory

Knight Jarecki·

SPRINGFIELD – Springfield Drifters alum Hunter Dryden delivered in his Eugene Emeralds debut, striking out six over four scoreless innings against the Hillsboro Hops on Saturday. The Deer Valley, Wash., product allowed only two hits in his Class-A Advanced debut, as the Emeralds beat the Hops 10-4 to secure a series victory. Dryden, who pitched…

Baseball recaps

Eli Thomas·

■ THURSTON defeated West Albany 6-0 at Linn-Benton Community College on Tuesday. It scored five runs in the 6th inning. Each of the Colts’ top-seven hitters had at least one hit. Grady Saunders pitched 5 2/3 innings, allowing two hits and striking out seven batters. On Saturday, they defeated Caldera 6-2, with another five run…

Baseball previews

Eli Thomas·

■ THURSTON (5-3, #8) has three league matchups this week. On Saturday, they travel to No. 16 Churchill (3-4) for a doubleheader to finish their three game series. On Tuesday, they welcome No. 4 North Eugene (4-2) for the first of a three game series. Last season, the Colts swept the Highlanders, holding them to…

Softball previews

Eli Thomas·

■ THURSTON (0-9, #28) has three league matchups this week. On Saturday, it travels to No. 11 Churchill (4-3) for a doubleheader to finish their three game series. On Tuesday, the Colts welcome No. 6 North Eugene (5-3) for the start of a three game series. Last season, the Colts swept the Highlanders, scoring 31…

Softball recaps

Eli Thomas·

■ THURSTON lost to West Albany 16-1 in five innings on Tuesday. The Colts held a 1-0 lead until the third inning, but allowed two runs in that inning, six in the fourth, and eight in the fifth. Amelia Kidd was 2-for-3, with a triple and 6 RBI for the Bulldogs. On Friday, the Colts…

Legal Notices: Edition of April 9, 2026

admin·

TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE File No. 25-00960OR Reference is made to that certain deed of trust made by Serena Charmian, as grantor, to First American Title Insura, as trustee, in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as designated nominee for Freedom Mortgage Corporation, beneficiary of the security instrument, its successors and assigns, as beneficiary,…

Thurston's Liberatore steps down

admin·

By Steve Mims The Chronicle THURSTON – After leading Thurston to three straight Midwestern League boys basketball titles for the first time in more than a half-century, Blaine Liberatore is leaving on top. Liberatore, who led Thurston to the 2018 Class 5A boys state basketball title, announced his resignation as coach during a team banquet…

Service Announcement: Sims 'Bud' McFall: April 11

Erin Tierney-Heggenstaller – Executive Editor·

Sims “Bud” McFall, age 92, of Cottage Grove, Oregon, passed away January 21, 2026. Arrangements are in the care of Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel and Crematorium. A Celebration of Life will be held on April 11, 2026, at 1 p.m. at the Pennoyer Avenue Church of Christ.

Michael Lane Hougan: May 4, 1949 – Feb. 23, 2026 

admin·

Michael Lane Hougan passed peacefully away on February 23 at the age of 76. He was born in Bellingham, WA, to Arnold and Dorothy Hougan on May 4, 1949. He graduated from Ferndale High School in 1967 and then attended WSU, earning a BS in Forestry Management in 1973.  Michael moved to Oregon with his…

Joseph Vern Cooper: May 7, 1954 – March 18, 2026

Erin Tierney-Heggenstaller – Executive Editor·

Joseph Vern Cooper, 71, of Creswell, OR, passed away Wednesday, March 18, 2026. He was born on May 7, 1954, in Cottage Grove, OR, to Vernon Cooper and Mildred Clark. Joe grew up in several local communities in Oregon and graduated from Creswell High School in 1972. He married his high school sweetheart and love…

Gary Kenneth Zimmerman Winnop: Sept. 24, 1942 – March 11, 2026

Erin Tierney-Heggenstaller – Executive Editor·

Gary Kenneth Zimmerman Winnop passed away on March 11, 2026. Born in Portland, Oregon, he grew up along the McKenzie River and remained deeply connected to its outdoors, enjoying hunting and fishing with his brothers. He served in the U.S. Air Force, later working in Alaska’s logging industry and with his family’s business. Gary built…

Watersheds ‘Bill of Rights’ measure creating debate

Ashlin Sanderson·

LANE COUNTY – Lane County voters can expect to see a new measure on the May 19 ballot, called the “Watersheds Bill of Rights,” or Measure #20-373. The measure will allow the community to vote on stronger legal protections for local watersheds and clean water. The measure is a proposed initiative stemming from a campaign,…

Springfield, Cottage Grove fill streets for ‘No Kings’ march

Ashlin Sanderson·

SPRINGFIELD – Roads in Springfield were closed last Saturday as thousands of protestors flooded the streets near City Hall during the third round of “No Kings” protests, a nationwide event focusing on expressing displeasure with the federal administration. An estimated 8 million people showed up nationwide to protest, compared with the October rally’s 7 million.…

Celebrating ‘Cowboy’ Don Williams

Erin Tierney-Heggenstaller – Executive Editor·

COTTAGE GROVE – Beloved Cottage Grove cowboy Don Williams celebrated his 90th birthday Wednesday afternoon, surrounded by friends and family – including friends as far away as Washington State – at the Cottage Grove Community Center. “It has been a wonderful life,” Williams said. “I owe a lot to the community.” Williams reflected on a…

Local talent shines in sold-out premiere of ‘Steel Magnolias’

Sarina Dorie – Arts Writer·

COTTAGE GROVE – “Steel Magnolias” is one of those plays that brings in an audience. The play debuted last weekend, and opening night was sold out. Performances continue April 3-4 at Opal Center, 513 E. Main St. The play centers on six Southern women in a small Louisiana town who meet at Trudy’s salon as…

Six Springfield candidates interview April 6

Ashlin Sanderson·

SPRINGFIELD – Six candidates have stepped forward to compete for the vacant role of Springfield’s Ward 4 City Councilor, all with a diverse array of backgrounds and experiences. Council will conduct candidate interviews during an April 6 council meeting, with deliberations on April 20. The selected candidate will take over the position vacated by Beth…

Weyerhaeuser grants given to 25 across Lane County

Ashlin Sanderson·

LANE COUNTY – Over $120,000 in grants was recently awarded to Lane County nonprofits through the Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund. A total of 25 grants were awarded for workforce development, education initiatives, and community projects throughout Eugene, Springfield, and Cottage Grove areas. Weyerhaeuser employees serve on local advisory committees and help determine funding priorities within several…

Commentary: Clean Lane was known risk, residents stuck paying high costs

GUEST COLUMN·

By Sid Lelken With Lane County’s ongoing budget challenges, why would increasing our garbage rates become a way to deal with this issue? Last year the Lane County Board of Commissioners, in a 3-2 vote moved forward on a waste processing facility called Clean Lane. Clean Lane has been described as a $150 million “public-private…

Dorena School in spotlight

Ashlin Sanderson·

DORENA – A rural school with fewer than 100 students has received national recognition as a Promising Practices School. Located just 15 minutes from Cottage Grove at 37141 Row River Road, Dorena School serves students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. Last Monday, it was announced that the school was honored by Solution Tree, a professional…

Buch is clear choice over two ‘single-issue’ opponents in County race

GUEST COLUMN·

Heather Buch has been a stellar county commissioner for East Lane County, but now she’s being challenged by two extremists. Political consultant Jake Pelroy, who ran David Loveall’s campaign four years ago, has taken some meaty donations from Ed King, the winery king of Lorane who also wants to be the gravel quarry king of…

UO Theatre presents ‘Radium Girls’

Chronicle News Service·

EUGENE – UO’s University Theatre stages “Radium Girls” by D.W. Gregory, directed by guest director Willow Norton Zolan, April 17 to May 2 at the Hope Theatre, 1231 University of Oregon. “Radium Girls” tells the true story of dial painters in the 1920s who suffered from mysterious illnesses linked to their work with radium. The…

He has risen: Celebrating the miracle of resurrection

BOB BECK for The Chronicle·

Spring! I love a country morning in the springtime! As I stand in our backyard, I hear the birds sing, the bright yellow daffodils bring joy to my heart, the new green leaves in the trees, and then the call of geese as two pairs fly overhead. The light wind brings a chill as it…

Fire district launches fundraiser

Chronicle News Service·

The Row River Fire District is holding a fundraiser to support the construction of a new fire station in Dorena. The initiative aims to engage the numerous bicyclists who frequent the Row River Trail, particularly around the popular parking locations at Mosby Bridge, Cerro Gordo, and Harms Park. As the number of visitors to the…

Creswell delivers complete performances, wins Invitational

Eli Thomas·

CRESWELL – Hitting had been a strength for the Creswell Bulldogs during their four-game winning streak, but Thursday, pitching and defense carried the load in a 6-0 victory over South Umpqua to finish the Creswell Invitational tournament 3-0. In the top of the seventh inning with one out, South Umpqua pinch hitter Jackson Causey hit…

Softball recaps

Eli Thomas·

■ CRESWELL was 2-0 last week, both games coming on Thursday. In the morning, it defeated Oakridge 8-3. Sophomore Brenna Roat was 2-for-3 with a HR, 3 RBIs, and 3 R, while Savannah Rook was 2-for-4 with a double, a triple, and 2 RBI. Elise Thackara threw a complete game, striking out six batters. In…

Softball previews

Eli Thomas·

PLEASANT HILL (2-1, #9) ■ Leading off: The Class 3A Billies will look to get back to a more normal kind of game after winning 44-25 their last time out. On Tuesday, March 31 and Wednesday, April 1, the Billies travel to face No. 23 Corbett (2-2) and welcome No. 29 Siuslaw (1-2), respectively. On…

Baseball recaps

Eli Thomas·

■ THURSTON went 2-3 at the Coach Bob Tournament at Desert Mountain High School in Arizona last week. Teams from the western half of the U.S. came to the tournament. The Colts lost to Desert Mountain (Ariz.) 7-0 in their first game on Monday. The home team put up six runs in the fourth inning…

Baseball previews

Eli Thomas·

THURSTON (3-3, #6) ■ Leading off: The Class 5A Colts are off to a slow start based on their own high standards. However, the last time the Colts started 3-3, two years ago, they won their final 25 games on the way to their second consecutive state championship. This week, they faced West Albany at…

Wolfe continues strong pitching effort for Bushnell vs. Corban

Knight Jarecki·

SPRINGFIELD – Bushnell pitcher Austin Wolfe (’25) struck out six batters and held Corban to two hits and one run across seven innings. Bushnell teammate Kai Keamo (’22) also put together a strong outing against the Warriors, throwing six innings with four strikeouts, three hits, and one unearned run. ■ Nick Gimino (2025) continued his…

Boys and girls golf

Chronicle Staff Report·

■ SPRINGFIELD: The Millers return seven golfers from last year when they placed fourth in the Midwestern League. Seniors Joshua Toensing and Weston Hosford lead the way along with junior Jackson Rich. ■ CRESWELL: The Bulldogs return three boys from a sixth-place finish at districts last year. Coach Jesse Thomas welcomes back seniors Parker Russell-Wollheim…

Boys and girls tennis

Chronicle Staff Report·

■ THURSTON: Peyton Reed finished second in the league in doubles and fifth at state last year before moving to No. 1 singles this year. Mason Spain, a four-year varsity player, and junior Tyler Jagles take over at No. 1 doubles for the Colts, who placed second at districts last year. Bill Matheus, a state…

2026-27 Creswell Chamber Services Directory

Erin Tierney-Heggenstaller – Executive Editor·

Government& Emergency Services City of Creswell / City Hall 13 South 1st Street | 541-895-2531  Lane County Sheriff’s Office 13 South 1st Street  Non-Emergency Line: 541-682-4150  Emergency: 911  South Lane County Fire & Rescue  Non-Emergency Line: 541-942-4493  Fire Medical Rescue Emergency: 911  Education & Childcare Creswell School District 998 A Street | 541-895-6000  Creswell Elementary…

Legal Notices: Edition of April 2, 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…

Prepare for takeoff? Hobby Field might land air show

Ashlin Sanderson·

CRESWELL – National Short Take Off and Landing (STOL) is a competition series for pilots nationwide to showcase their skill in a sport-like setting. On Monday night, the Creswell City Council talked about bringing the event to Creswell’s Hobby Field this summer. “National STOL is really up and coming in the aviation world,” said airport…

Circle the date: May 25 ‘Dick's Day’ in Creswell

Ron Hartman – Reporter·

CRESWELL – Creswell is going to have its own personal Memorial Day – a few days before the official national holiday. Mayor Nick Smith explained the preliminary details at Monday night’s city council meeting. “On May 25, we’ll do a Proclamation that it’s Col. Richard Heyman Day,” Smith said. “We will fly all the flags…