By Elizabeth Groening - The Chronicle

EMMA ROUTLEY/CHRONICLE PHOTO Dawn Melhert of Springfield worked with her father, a master woodworker, to create positive signs during the pandemic. SPRINGFIELD – At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dawn Melhert began making signs to help herself cope, but…

ELIZABETH GROENING/CHRONICLE PHOTO Standing in her “fairy garden” in Springfield, Aloha Heart’s home is known in town for its signs with positive messages. The longtime resident makes a point of helping others in the community. SPRINGFIELD – Aloha Heart knows…

SPRINGFIELD — If you live in Springfield or rural East Lane County, you have the chance to commemorate your city through art in the Springfield A-Z Art Contest, even if you’re not an artist.  “Everyone can participate. We’re celebrating both…

EMMA ROUTLEY/THE CHRONICLE Saint Alice Catholic Church father Mark Bentz cut the ribbon celebrating the new kitchen successfully on the first chop. SPRINGFIELD — St. Alice Catholic Church father Mark Bentz believes that food can bring people together. “Food breaks…

Saint Alice Catholic Church Father Mark Bentz cuts the ribbon celebrating the new kitchen successfully on the first chop, with Todd Salnas, chief executive for Oregon Network (left) and Patrick Sawyer, PA-C medical provider for RiverBend (right). EMMA ROUTLEY/THE CHRONICLE…

EMMA ROUTLEY/CHRONICLE PHOTO Mona Castle focuses in on her passion. SPRINGFIELD – Mona Castle, like many small business owners struggling with the economic effects of the pandemic, was forced to make hard decisions regarding her beads business. One might say…

ELIZABETH GROENING/CHRONICLE PHOTO Time Travelers Antique Mall in Springfield is among area stores prepared for an uptick in Mother’s Day sales. In a bind for time this Mother’s Day?  Small businesses in South Lane County will be open this weekend,…

EMMA ROUTLEY/THE CHRONICLE From left, Tricia Hewitt, Emily Rivas and Shelle Holmes of Thurston Flowers. THURSTON – Emily Rivas’ love of flowers started growing when she was 8 years old, playing in her family’s backyard garden in Hayward, Calif.  “My…