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

Willamalane planting 11 trees to honor of long-term staff
SPRINGFIELD – Eleven Willamalane Park and Recreation District employees who have achieved 20 or more years of service with the district have been honored with new trees in parks throughout Springfield. “Planting trees is a meaningful reflection of these long-standing employees. As the new trees take root, they are setting a strong foundation that will…

Thurston’s Liberatore resigns with championship legacy
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
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
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
■ 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
■ 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
■ 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
■ 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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’
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
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
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
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
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
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’
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
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
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
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
■ 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
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
■ 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
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
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
■ 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
■ 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…

Legal Notices: Edition of April 2, 2026
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
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
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…

Creswell considers ending sanitation agreement
CRESWELL – The Creswell City Council on Monday night gave a nod of approval for City Manager Vincent Martorello to cut ties with Lane County regarding solid waste fees and terminate an intergovernmental agreement between the two. Lane County and Sanipac are currently engaged in ongoing negotiations regarding the System Benefit Fee (SBF). The County…

Loveall files federal lawsuit
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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!
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
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
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
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
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
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’
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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’
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…

‘Growing like crazy’: Pickleball demand leads Willamalane to offer classes for interested players
SPRINGFIELD – Pickleball is gaining momentum in Lane County, and to keep up with the fast-growing popularity, Willamalane is teaming up with Emerald Valley Pickleball Club (EVPC) to offer monthly classes. No, pickleball is not played with any actual pickles. The game is a hybrid of badminton and table tennis. It is a paddle-racket sport…

Creswell agrees to new judge, attorney
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
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
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
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
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
“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
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
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
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’
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,…






