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Winter steelhead: Old ‘gray ghost’ is on deck
As I prepare this week’s edition of The Angler’s Log, I’m excited to report that winter steelhead have returned to Oregon’s coastal rivers and streams for their annual spawning run, a tradition that has lasted for millennia. This season typically lasts around three months. A steelhead is a migratory fish that gleams like chrome and…
Creswell boys show healthy growth
BY ELI THOMASTHE CHRONICLE CRESWELL – Creswell Bulldogs junior Mason Schartz intercepted a North Bend Bulldogs pass during the first quarter like a free safety in football and raced down the floor, dumping the ball to teammate Ace Arnold for an easy layup. The steal and score was part of a 12-0 run for Creswell,…
Kinney, Nguyen powering Creswell girls basketball
Seth ThompsonThe Chronicle CRESWELL – The Creswell Bulldogs hosted the No. 6 in Class 4A North Bend Bulldogs on Friday afternoon. North Bend entered this game 8-1, with its only loss coming to the No. 6 team in Class 5A, Crook County.Now, North Bend sits at 8-2. Creswell escaped on Friday, winning 45-44, rallying from…
Boys and girls basketball results and schedules
RESULTS BOYS BASKETBALL Monday, Dec. 29 ■ Thurston 60, South Medford 44■ Yamhill-Carlton 55, SHS 52■ Molalla 64, Cottage Grove 60■ Newport 64, Creswell 56■ Burns 54, Pleasant Hill 53 Tuesday, Dec. 30 ■ Hidden Valley 59, Springfield 53■ Klamath Union 54, CGHS 44 Wednesday, Jan. 31 ■ Cottage Grove 58, SHS 50 Friday, Jan.…
Boys basketball previews
THURSTON (7-4) ■ Tipping off: The Colts start league play this week with two games. First, the Colts welcome No. 31 Eagle Point (2-8) on Friday, Jan. 9. The Colts have won four consecutive games coming into this matchup; the Eagles have lost four in a row. The Colts have won six consecutive league matchups…
Boys basketball recaps
■ THURSTON: Treyson Hill and Lucas LaBounty led the Colts to a 60-44 victory over South Medford on Monday, Dec. 29. Hill scored a season-high 25 points, and LaBounty added 23. The Colts shot 12-of-15 from the free throw line, a team strength. Three-point defense was also excellent for the Colts, allowing the Panthers to…
Girls basketball recaps
■ SPRINGFIELD: The No. 2 Millers (9-1) returned from break last week with two games. On Monday, Dec. 29 the Millers beat No. 9 Summit (7-4) 69-49 before taking down No. 17 Crescent Valley (4-6) 55-32 on Tuesday. Springfield has won 7-of-8 games and rose in the Class 5A state rankings to No. 3. ■…
Girls basketball previews
SPRINGFIELD (9-1) ■ Tipping off: In their final games before Midwestern League play begins, the No. 2 Millers face two Class 4A teams. On Tuesday, Jan. 6, the Millers travel to No. 11 Cascade (4-6) before hosting No. 1 Stayton (8-1) on Monday, Jan 12. The Millers will have their hands full with the best…
Boys and girls wrestling recaps and previews
RECAPS ■ THURSTON: The Colts boys won and the girls took fourth at the NW Duals Tournament on Dec. 29-30. On the boys side, Samuel Greenstreet (106), Lukas Salas Sanchez (113), Michael Salas Sanchez (120), Owen Ragonesi (126), and Ivan Henderson (138) dominated this tournament as each of them did not lose a match. Thurston…
Boys and girls wrestling schedules
BOYS WRESTLING Tuesday, Jan. 6 ■ Pleasant Hill at Tri-Dual at Pleasant Hill HS, 5 p.m.■ Thurston vs. West Albany Dual BWR Meet at West Albany HS, 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7 ■ Creswell at Tri-Dual at Creswell HS, 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8 ■ Creswell at Tri-Dual at Lowell HS, 6 p.m.■ Springfield at…
Legal Notices: Edition of Jan. 8, 2026
TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE T.S. No.: OR-25-1014456-BB Reference is made to that certain deed made by, MELISSA K JENKINS AND ELLIOTT I JENKINS; AS TENANTS BY THE ENTIRETY as Grantor to EVERGREEN LAND TITLE, as trustee, in favor of MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS NOMINEE FOR LOANDEPOT.COM, LLC, ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS, as Beneficiary,…
Millers, Bulldogs charge into league play
GIRLS BASKETBALL CONFERENCE PREVIEWS SPRINGFIELD ■ The No. 3 Millers have dominated non-league play to start the season. After their victory in the Tarkanian Classic tournament in Las Vegas, the Millers are 7-1 with just over a week to go until Midwestern League games begin. The Millers’ defense has been elite so far this year,…
Colts, Billies gallop into league play with strength
BOYS BASKETBALL CONFERENCE PREVIEWS SPRINGFIELD The Millers (1-6) are No. 30 in Class 5A. Apart from an impressive 19-point victory over Dallas, it has been a familiar story for the Millers. A -23.1 net rating – which measures margin of victory or defeat per game – is indicative of the Millers’ lack of competitiveness in…
Girls basketball previews
SPRINGFIELD ■ Tipping off: The No. 3 Millers (7-1) faced No. 9 Summit (5-3) on Monday, Dec. 29 and played No. 19 Crescent Valley (3-4) on Tuesday. Both games happened after The Chronicle’s deadline. The games were the Millers’ first after winning the Tarkanian Classic in Las Vegas. The Millers allowed an average of 43.75…
Boys basketball previews
COTTAGE GROVE ■ Tipping off: The Lions (1-7) are No. 29 in Class 4A. On Tuesday, Jan. 6, the Lions welcome the Creswell Bulldogs (5-3). On Saturday, Dec. 20, these two teams matched up in the consolation bracket of the Battle of I-5 Tournament. The Bulldogs won 74-33; Emerson Velarde and Ace Arnold led with 17…
Boys and girls wrestling previews and schedules
Seth Thompson The Chronicle PREVIEWS Cottage Grove: The Lions compete in the Phil Smith Memorial Invite in Junction City on Friday, Jan. 2 for the girls, and Saturday, Jan. 3 for the boys. Here, the Lions will compete alongside Elmira, Junction City, Marshfield, North Eugene, Rainier, Siletz Valley, Sisters, Siuslaw/Mapleton, Stayton, Taft, and Willamette. Look…
Girls basketball results and schedules
RESULTS GIRLS BASKETBALL Sunday, Dec. 21 ■ Skyview 62, Thurston 26 Monday, Dec. 22 ■ Forest Grove 45, Thurston 30■ Springfield 65, Owyhee (ID) 44 Tuesday, Dec. 23 ■ Springfield 68, Dublin (CA) 40 SCHEDULES GIRLS BASKETBALL Monday, Dec. 29 ■ Summit at Springfield, 6:45 p.m■ Molalla vs. Cottage Grove, SCTC Holiday Tournament at Stayton…
Boys basketball results and schedules
RESULTS BOYS BASKETBALL Monday, Dec. 22 ■ Molalla 62, Springfield 34■ Central 58, Thurston 55 Tuesday, Dec. 23 ■ Thurston 64, West Linn 46 Saturday, Dec. 27 ■ Thurston 74, North Medford 65 Sunday, Dec. 28 ■ Thurston 62, Grants Pass 27 SCHEDULES BOYS BASKETBALL Monday, Dec. 29 ■ Thurston vs. South Medford, Abby’s Holiday…
Connie Jean Clover Chapman: Jan. 7, 1953 – Dec. 22, 2025
On 12/22/2025, Connie Jean Clover Chapman rode off into the sunset as she left this Earth at the age of 72, only a couple of weeks away from her 73rd birthday. She passed away at home in Creswell, surrounded by her cherished family. Born on January 7, 1953, in Silverton, OR, Connie was the oldest…
Nurse program for newborns expands to Lane
LANE COUNTY – Families with new babies can get assistance from nurses right in their homes through a program offered by the Oregon Health Authority. Family Connects Oregon launched in Oregon in 2021 and recently spread to Lane County residents. Lane County received a grant to initiate the program, and since serving the residents of…
Loyalty & love: Dogs focus of nonprofit
EUGENE – Like many couples, Darin and Jennifer Campbell had been through their fair share of ups and downs. Then life really became a roller-coaster one tragic afternoon about 15 years ago when Jennifer caught some thieves rummaging through the family car. When she confronted them, one of the guys hopped into the getaway truck…
Starfire Lumber Co.’s new building full of old memories
COTTAGE GROVE – The timber industry in Cottage Grove has a deeply rooted history that dates back to the early days of settlement. The area was initially settled by farmers who practiced subsistence farming; they grew enough for their own use and had a bit left over to sell. Wood was essential for building houses,…
Good to be gluten-free: Estelle Bakery tailors menu with customers’ allergies in mind
SPRINGFIELD – Do you or someone you know suffer from Celiac disease or have a wheat allergy? If so, it can be challenging to find baked goods that don’t have the texture of cardboard. As someone who is allergic to wheat (which is different from Celiac disease), I often feel the pull of Christmas cookies,…
Springfield leaf pickup
The City of Springfield offers a free leaf pickup service to residents to prevent flooding and maintain safe streets. Sanipac is responsible for collecting and recycling bagged leaves in two rounds. For areas west of 28th Street, pick up begins the week of Jan. 5. For areas east of 28th Street begins the week of…
Missing woman found dead in Lowell
LOWELL – On Dec. 23 at 10:30 a.m., the Lane County Sheriff’s Office received information that a missing woman, Melissa Ann Radcliff, 73, of Eugene, may be in her vehicle east of Lowell. The Lane County Sheriff’s deputy, who is a drone operator, diverted to West Boundary Road to search for Radcliff. The deputy spotted…
Letter to the editor – ‘Many thanks:’ More gratitude for local journalism
Dear Editor: I wish to compliment The Chronicle and staff on the Dec 25 issue of the papers. Also, I would hope and pray that you all have a very happy New Year, and many more to come. I was impressed with Noel Nash’s recent column (Extra! Extra! Donors make a difference). I thank you…
LCSO double case of DUII
On Dec. 23 at 5:30 p.m., a driver on Jasper Road near Wallace Creek reported a vehicle swerving into the oncoming lane, almost striking another car, and driving with inconsistent speed. A Lane County Sheriff’s deputy responded and initiated a traffic stop; however, instead of pulling over, the vehicle went off the road, struck a…
Attempt to pass vehicle in Crow results in crash
CROW – On Dec. 21 at 1 a.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a single vehicle crash in the 26400 block of Crow Road, east of Crow. A deputy arrived first on scene and observed the vehicle was down a 20-foot ravine and engulfed in flames. The driver and passenger, who…
United Way launches grants, seeks applicants, volunteers
United Way of Lane County will accept applications for Community Support and Transformation Grants starting Jan. 28, and all applications are due by Feb. 23. United Way’s Community Support and Community Transformation Grants are multi-year awards funded by community donors. UWLC is offering two types of grants: Community Support Grants, which provide $5,000 to $20,000…
Audit calls for clearer roadmap for Measure 110
Measure 110 is still far from achieving its promise to help Oregonians struggling with addiction due to frequent policy changes and a lack of stability, coordination, and data at the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), according to an audit released today by the Secretary of State Audits Division. “Oregon has struggled to respond to substance use…
Legal Notices: Edition of Jan. 1, 2026
TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE Reference is made to that certain trust deed made by Joshua Aaron Vargas, as grantor, to Evergreen Land Title Company, as trustee, in favor of Leslie Investments Inc., as beneficiary, dated December 27, 2021, and recorded on December 30, 2021, as Instrument No. 2021-080125 of the Lane County Deeds & Records,…
Marist rallies past Bulldog boys
BY ELI THOMASTHE CHRONICLE CRESWELL – An atmospheric river hit Lane County on Thursday, but it blew through the Cottage Grove High School basketball gym early in the fourth quarter of the Battle of I-5 Tournament boys semifinal game between Marist Catholic and Creswell on Friday. Marist sophomore forward Fletcher Pollard – after making his…
Former Lions standout takes reigns of football program
CHRONICLE STAFF REPORT COTTAGE GROVE – Nate Farrell, a former multisport athlete for the Lions and a member of the 2017 state title football team, has been named head coach of the football program, said Garrett Bridgens, the school’s athletic director. Bridgens said the hiring process was overseen by a “diverse committee of current CGHS…
Billies stumble against Lions in Battle of I-5 Tournament
Seth ThompsonThe Chronicle COTTAGE GROVE – The Pleasant Hill Billies girls basketball team traveled to Cottage Grove to face the Lions on Thursday to kick off the Battle of I-5 Tournament. Confidence was high. In the end, the Class 4A Lions reigned supreme, beating the Class 3A Billies 54-39. The Lions relied on its defense,…
Boys basketball results and schedules
BOYS BASKETBALL RESULTSThursday, Dec. 18 ■ Cottage Grove 70, Brookings-Harbor 40■ Pleasant Hill 47, Cascade 35■ Bend 66, Springfield 36■ Tualatin 79, Thurston 58■ Creswell vs. Newport, canceled (weather) Friday, Dec. 19 ■ Marist Catholic 57, Creswell 48■ Pleasant Hill 60,Cottage Grove 50 Saturday, Dec. 20 ■ Creswell 74, Cottage Grove 33■ Pleasant Hill 58,…
Boys basketball recaps and previews
Eli Thomas BOYS BASKETBALL RECAPS THURSTON defeated South Eugene 69-61 on Tuesday, Dec. 16. Lucas LaBounty led the Colts with 23 points. Treyson Hill added 16 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists, while Leo Filipe scored 15 points. Add in Ridge Lindsay’s 11 points, and four Colts players scored 65 of the team’s 69 points.…
2025 Athletes of the week and all-state football players
2025 ATHLETES OF THE WEEK ■ 1/02/25 Trevor Cooper, boys basketball, Cottage Grove■ 1/09/25 Noah Blair, boys basketball, Thurston■ 1/16/25 Lucas LaBounty, boys basketball, Thurston■ 1/23/25 Darissa Romero-Ah Sam, girls basketball, Springfield■ 1/30/25 Claire Crawford, girls basketball, Pleasant Hill■ 2/06/25 Michael Salas Sanchez, boys wrestling, Thurston■ 2/13/25 Nathin Lemon, boys basketball, Cottage Grove■ 2/20/25 Hayes…
Girls basketball results and schedules
GIRLS BASKETBALL Thursday, Dec. 18 ■ Cottage Grove 54,Pleasant Hill 39■ Creswell 58,Brookings-Harbor 39 Friday, Dec. 19 ■ Cottage Grove 38,Brookings-Harbor 36■ Marist 40, Pleasant Hill 35■ Springfield 49, Liberty (NV) 47■ Creswell vs. Newport, canceled (weather) Saturday, Dec. 20 ■ Creswell 62, Cottage Grove 26■ Pleasant Hill 53, Newport 21■ Thurston 49. Putnam 34■…
Girls basketball recaps and previews
GIRLS BASKETBALL RECAPS ■ SPRINGFIELD: The No. 4 Millers (5-1) face No. 8 Summit (5-2) on Monday, Dec. 29. For the Millers, this matchup comes just under one week after their appearance at the Tarkanian Classic in Las Vegas. This match will likely be a telling one in the overall landscape of Class 5A, as…
OSAA shakes up conferences for 2026-30
Chronicle staff report WILSONVILLE – The Oregon School Activities Association approved changes to classifications and league lineups on Monday, Dec. 15. The OSAA executive board and delegate assembly both voted to approve the changes that go into effect for the 2026-30 seasons. The association will continue to operate with a six-classification system. ■ Cottage Grove:…
Peak staff donates food items
As food insecurity continues to affect families across Lane County, local Peak Credit Union branches stepped up this holiday season. Through a company-wide food drive from Nov. 10 to Dec. 20, Peak Credit Union members and employees donated more than 14,000 food items, with contributions from area branches going directly to the Food for Lane…
Urgent Request: Meals-on-Wheels program in dire need of donations, volunteers.
For many older adults, the holiday season often feels more isolating than festive — or as Senior & Disability representatives put it, “more silence than celebration.” In Lane County, 43% of households can’t afford basics, which translates to 70,194 families living paycheck to paycheck, according to the 2025 ALICE Report (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed)…
Dexter man arrested for impairment, guns
Lowell – On Dec. 18 at 5 p.m., an LCSO deputy contracted to patrol U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lands observed a car parked in front of a gate to a secure area of Lookout Point Dam, east of Lowell. The deputy contacted the driver, Richard Leon Gaffney, 54, of Dexter, and observed that he…
2025 Year in Review: Cottage Grove Grant success fuels projects
COTTAGE GROVE – Cottage Grove underwent some significant changes this year, like a new Main Street and Bohemia Park Splash Pad. Mayor Candace Solesbee discussed what it has been like to achieve these accomplishments and some of the challenges 2025 brought. “One of the things that has been at the very top of our list…
2025 Year in Review: Creswell Infrastructure improvements were key
CRESWELL – Creswell Mayor Nick Smith reflected on a year of notable achievements and ongoing challenges as he navigates his inaugural term, noting the importance of community development and infrastructure improvements for the town’s future. Smith said a top priority of his this year was getting a city manager in place and ensuring they were…
Willamalane hosts holiday giveaway
SPRINGFIELD – Willamalane partnered with The Hope Project, a non-profit organization in Lane County dedicated to quick response needs that provides any help it can. Together, the two organizations coordinated a holiday giveaway, providing free bikes, toys, socks, and jeans to Springfield families. Kenny Weigandt, senior leader at Willamalane Park and Recreation District, said in…
2025 Year in Review: Springfield Flock, Mill St., Task Force top list
SPRINGFIELD – Sean VanGordon took a look back on 2025 and discussed his accomplishments as mayor, as well as some challenging aspects of the year. He highlighted the Fiscal Stability Task Force, the completion of Mill Street, and Flock Cameras. “If we rewound to basically the summer of ’24, the Fiscal Stability Task Force began…
Downtown Cottage Grove windows dazzle
COTTAGE GROVE – The Downtown Cottage Grove window decorating contest, sponsored by Cottage Grove Art Walk, was a success, with more businesses participating than in the past, making it a challenging experience for the judges, resulting in two ties. The winners included 1st place for the Bank Building, which received $100; a tie for 2nd…
Creswell city manager focusing on business development grant
CRESWELL – Creswell’s newest city manager shared insight into his role for 2025. Originally from Iowa, Vincent Martorello was appointed to Creswell’s position in May. He discussed some of his accomplishments during his short time as city manager and what he is looking forward to in 2026. Martorello first talked about a recent $30,000 grant…
News you can use: Credit is available to fix leaks
If residents have a leak during the winter months, they would be billed wastewater services for the water that’s lost. There is a way to get help when this happens so people aren’t paying for services they didn’t use. If a homeowner finds a leak, call the Wastewater Billing Department to get the process going:…
Lane County DUII roundup
On Dec. 14 at 8 p.m., deputies responded to a residence on Pheasant Boulevard in Springfield after a resident observed a vehicle run into his parked car. The driver, Steven Anthony Cvitanovich, 58, of Springfield, was arrested for DUII and Failure to Perform Duties of a Driver – Property Damage. On Monday, Dec. 8, just…
Springfield man dies in traffic accident
EUGENE – On Dec. 15 at 4 p.m., LCSO deputies responded with medical personnel to a two-vehicle crash on E. 30th Avenue near Gonyea Road, east of Eugene. The driver of one vehicle was non-responsive. Before emergency responders arrived, bystanders broke a window on the car and pulled the driver out to attempt life-saving measures,…
Gas thieves caught syphoning in Glenwood
GLENWOOD – On Dec. 18 at 1 a.m., the LCSO received a report of people stealing gas from a business in Glenwood. Deputies responded and observed Kevin Raye Fanning, 59, and Kristina Michelle Cole, 45, both of Eugene, siphoning gas from a company vehicle. Cole initially provided a false name; however, deputies identified them and…
Barricade subject on Davisson in Creswell
CRESWELL – On Dec. 17 at 10:30 p.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a home in the 82100 block of Davisson Road. Several days before, Jose Donaldo DeLeon, 32, of Creswell, entered a residence without permission and slashed the victim’s tires. DeLeon barricaded himself inside a small shed when deputies arrived. Deputies spoke with…
Violence Prevention Coalition launches new site, tools
LANE COUNTY – The Lane County Violence Prevention Coalition (LCVPC) has relaunched its website, serving as a central hub for resources aimed at preventing domestic and sexual violence, child abuse, and identity-based violence in the area. “This website allows us to broaden our reach, support our partners more effectively, and ensure that individuals and families…
New covenant, new contract, new year, new resolution
When I reflect on the tradition of New Year’s resolutions, I wonder. A couple of years ago, my wife and I both discussed losing weight for our 50th wedding anniversary. But it wasn’t for New Year’s, it was as we were celebrating our 49th! I have never been someone who makes New Year’s resolutions. If…
Letter to the editor: When America was united by peace in Christmas 1945
During World War II, the Christmas trees at the White House and Rockefeller Center remained dark. This Christmas is the 80th anniversary of the first Christmas after the end of the war. According to author Matthew Litt, Christmas 1945 was the “greatest celebration in American history.” The 25-foot White House Christmas tree was re-lit on…
WHAT’S NEXT? A look at key issues in the ’26 State Legislative short session
The Springfield Chamber is paying close attention to the upcoming short legislative session in early 2026. Alongside statewide organizations like the Oregon State Chamber of Commerce (OSCC) and Oregon Business and Industry (OBI), the Springfield Chamber is monitoring and participating in key conversations affecting the business community. The following points will be of interest to…
Legal Notices: Edition of Dec. 25, 2025
TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE File No. 25-00647OR Reference is made to that certain deed of trust made by Stephen Michael Rooney, as grantor, to First American Title Insurance, 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…
Young innovators lead transit solutions at codeORcreate
SPRINGFIELD – Connected Lane County, in partnership with Lane Transit District (LTD), hosted its annual codeORcreate competition from Dec. 12 to 14, bringing together high school students from across Lane County for a three-day innovation challenge focused on improving youth access to public transportation. Participants showcase their projects at the public showcase, highlighting creative approaches to…
Millers’ offense comes alive
Solo, Henderson lead Springfield boys to first victory BY ELI THOMASTHE CHRONICLE SPRINGFIELD – Springfield Millers guard Lejhaun Henderson grabbed the basketball in the backcourt and immediately lifted his gaze and raced toward the rim. Henderson had multiple Dallas Dragons defenders ahead of him, but weaved through them effortlessly. He finished the coast-to-coast effort with…
Lions girls basketball run into full-pressure defense
By Seth ThompsonThe Chronicle COTTAGE GROVE – Lions girls basketball coach Kim Beer and his team were on a roll entering their fourth game of the season last Wednesday night against Cascade. With landslide victories in all three of their prior games – with the lowest margin-of-victory a 30-point-win over Scio – Beer and the…
2025 fall sports all-state teams
GIRLS SOCCER CLASS 5A 2ND TEAM■ Taylor Suiter, sophomore forward, Thurston■ Delaney Antone, sophomore midfielder, Thurston CLASS 5A 3RD TEAM■ Emmie Gerdrum, sophomore forward, Thurston■ Rosie Montes, junior defender, Thurston CLASS 3A/2A/1A 1ST TEAM■ Mila Nguyen, junior forward, Creswell■ Elliette Kinney, senior midfielder, Creswell CLASS 3A/2A/1A 2ND TEAM■ Trinity Smead, senior midfielder, Pleasant Hill■ Zoe…
Boys and girls wrestling recaps and previews
RESULTS BOYS WRESTLINGWednesday, Dec. 17■ Springfield vs. Churchill in Dual Meet, TBD■ Thurston vs. Eagle Point, 7 p.m.Friday, Dec. 19■ Springfield at Coquille HS Holiday Send-off, noon.Friday-Saturday, Dec. 19-20■ CGHS at Grants Pass Winter Kickoff at Grants Pass HS, 11 a.m.Saturday, Dec. 20■ Thurston at LaMont Simons Dual Tournament vs. Bend, Mt. View and Tillamook,…
Boys and girls basketball recaps and previews
RESULTS BOYS BASKETBALLTuesday, Dec. 9■ Sweet Home 66, CGHS 32■ Pleasant Hill 64, Sutherlin 30■ Creswell 59, Central Linn 30■ West Albany 48, Thurston 45Thursday, Dec. 11■ Pleasant Hill 63, Santiam Chr. 51Friday, Dec. 12■ Springfield 73, Dallas 54■ Cascade 61, Cottage Grove 48■ Creswell 59, Oakland 52■ Valley Catholic 73, PHHS 45Saturday, Dec. 13■…
Springfield residents urged to apply for ‘First Story’ newly remodeled home
SPRINGFIELD – As the Northwest continues to face a critical shortage of affordable homeownership opportunities, First Story is inviting eligible families in the Springfield area to apply for a newly remodeled Fresh Start home in the Hayden Homes Westwinds community, with the first household selected in 2026. This Oregon-based nonprofit provides affordable homeownership options through…
Winter nights, bright lights: ‘The Friendly City’ rolls out the welcome mat for winter events
CRESWELL – Christmas magic sprinkled its sparkles over the City of Creswell last Saturday when the 22nd annual Creswell Winter Lights Festival spread holiday cheer. Luminous dance group performs in the light parade during Creswell’s 2025 winter lights event. CRAIG STROBECK / THE CHRONICLE The Creswell Chamber of Commerce hosted the yearly event, and an…
Old, rare book sold for educational scholarships
SPRINGFIELD – Opal Whiteley would have turned 120 years old last Thursday, Dec. 11. The American nature writer, diarist, and local legend to the Cottage Grove area is still making an impact today through her work in the 1900s. Historian and local Whiteley expert, Steve Williamson, donated two copies of Whiteley’s book “The Fairyland Around…
Humble Bumble Nutritionals opens in Creswell
CRESWELL – Downtown Creswell recently got a new addition to its storefronts. Last Thursday, Audrey Sizemore and her husband, Dan, cut the Creswell Chamber’s ribbon across their new store door, Humble Bumble Nutritionals, at 228 W. Oregon Ave. A small gathering took place with members of the Creswell Chamber of Commerce, Mayor Nick Smith, family,…
Grove’s historic Main St. reopens
COTTAGE GROVE – Downtown Cottage Grove has been under construction since February 2025. Last Friday night, City officials administered a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the long-awaited two-way traffic through historic Downtown. After almost a year of heavy equipment, caution tape, and traffic cones being staples along Main Street, the community showed appreciation…
CG Shop with a cop
COTTAGE GROVE – The Cottage Grove Police Department held its annual “Shop with a Cop” event this past Saturday, Dec. 13. It marks the third consecutive year CGPD has partnered with Walmart in Cottage Grove to organize this event. It is made possible by the donations from the Cottage Grove Walmart. This year, CGPD assisted…
Winterfest at PublicHouse
SPRINGFIELD – PublicHouse at 418 A St. in Downtown Springfield will celebrate the holiday season with its annual Winterfest through Dec. 21. The event features a variety of winter drinks, holiday food specials, and nightly entertainment in a fully enclosed, heated, clear-top tent. Guests can enjoy an expansive selection of festive drafts and cocktails. Holiday…
What we see depends on where we stand
Have you ever watched strangers interacting outside a bus (or train or car) window and found yourself creating a story in your mind to explain their conversation? Or wondered about the lives of people in the houses you pass as you drive along I-5 or meander along Highway 58, 99, or 126? This imaginative exercise…
Mi abuelo Manuel: A family’s immigration story
A young Hispanic female teacher whose parents brought her to the United States as a child is forcibly taken from her classroom by ICE agents in front of her students. The father of three enlisted Marines is dragged from his car and taken into ICE custody. A female college student is detained at an airport…
Avian Flu spreads; avoid contact with sick, dead birds
SALEM – Officials are advising Oregonians to avoid sick or dead birds as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) continues to affect both wild and domestic bird populations throughout the state. With no effective treatment available, the virus is spreading rapidly, particularly among migrating cackling geese in the Willamette Valley and various raptors. Reports of HPAI-related…
Lane County DUII arrests
On Saturday, Dec. 5, at 6 p.m., a pickup crashed into a utility pole on the shoulder of Prairie Road. Kevin Bryan Barthol, 23, of Port Orford, was arrested for DUII. On Sunday, Dec. 6, at 9:30 p.m., deputies responded to a report of a car that had crashed off London Road near Latham Road,…
Missing Springfield mushroom picker found safe
On Dec. 11 at 1:40 p.m., LCSO Search & Rescue located Erik Everardo Aguilar-Cisneros, 32, of Springfield, alive in the Hadsall Creek area south of Mapleton. Aguilar-Cisneros was reported missing on the evening of Dec. 6 after he didn’t return from mushroom picking with several friends, prompting a multi-day search involving vehicles, ground searchers, K9…
Drug lab found near Marcola
According to Lane County Sheriff’s detectives, they have received information over the past year that James Joseph Love, 51, of Marcola, was operating an illegal drug lab as well as manufacturing psilocybin products. These types of labs, officials said, can be highly hazardous when operated illegally and have resulted in explosions and fires over the…
David Richard Johnson: April 22, 1950 – Nov. 25, 2025
David Richard Johnson, born on April 22, 1950, passed away on November 25, 2025, in Cottage Grove, Oregon, at the age of 75. Born to Frank and Florence (Turner) Johnson in Helena, Montana, David grew up to become a cornerstone of both his family and his community. In December 1953, David’s parents moved the family…
Legal Notices: Edition of Dec. 18, 2025
TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE LLG 25-130469 A default has occurred under the terms of a trust deed made by Dusty L. Wallace and Kathrine R. Wallace, as tenants by the entirety, whose address is 355 Crona Street, Junction City, OR 97448 as grantor to Fidelity National Title Company of Oregon, as Trustee, in favor of…
Creswell awarded downtown enhancement grant
CRESWELL – With strings of twinkling lights delicately draped over downtown’s trees, Oregon Avenue always shines especially bright this time of the year. Thanks to a county grant, plans are underway to make its storefronts shine year-round by the end of 2026. Last week, the City of Creswell was awarded a $30,000 grant through Lane…
Creswell ‘Winter Lights’ parade, celebrations scheduled for this weekend
CRESWELL – The Friendly City will shine especially bright this weekend as the 22nd annual Creswell Winter Lights Festival will take place on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., hosted by the Creswell Chamber of Commerce. The festival will feature live music, a holiday vendor market, Santa Claus, a light parade, and…
Spot on: Toys for Tots making spirits bright in Springfield
SPRINGFIELD – Last Friday, Pleasant Hill Elementary School third graders took a field trip to Springfield’s Target to find the perfect toys for other children during a Toys for Tots event. For about 30 minutes, the otherwise quiet and calm store was bustling with the sound of over 70 excited children picking out special gifts…
Library supporters fill Springfield Council meeting
SPRINGFIELD – Standing-room-only Springfield city council meetings have started to become the new normal, especially with Monday night’s rally to save the library. Parents with children, teachers, students, librarians, and library-goers flooded the meeting room, all with one goal: to save the Springfield Library. A $500,000 reduction to the library budget is an option proposed…
The Grove kicks Christmas into high gear
COTTAGE GROVE – Cottage Grove held its Kickoff to Christmas event with activities starting as early as 9 a.m., with a Jungle Rush 5k. A record number of registrants – 225 – resulted in 209 finishers in the walk/run, where James Talley, Micah Hanke, Rob English, Konrad Raum, and Ella Cardwell finished in the top…
No rain, plenty of warm fuzzies at Springfield’s ‘Oldest & Coldest’
SPRINGFIELD – Springfield’s Oldest & Coldest Christmas Parade embarked on its 73rd year last Saturday as downtown businesses opened their doors and folks set up camp on the sidewalks for a front-row view. The Grinch takes time to pose with Cindy Lou Who in Springfield on Saturday.BOB WILLIAMS / CHRONICLE PHOTO Oregon’s typical rainy winter…
Springfield, Eugene shutter Flock cameras
SPRINGFIELD – The Springfield and Eugene police departments on Dec. 5 announced that they have officially terminated use of their Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) systems, citing unspecified “vulnerabilities and limitations” that “prevent them from meeting operational needs, data security requirements, and community expectations.” The system they have been using, called Flock, is a public-private…
National group recognizes Willamalane for budgeting
SPRINGFIELD – This fall, Willamalane Park and Recreation District was recognized by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for its strong stewardship of local tax dollars, according to the district. GFOA offers several award programs that recognize excellence in government finance. This year, Willamalane received two national awards from the organization. “While these awards are…
Community generosity at Bi Mart for Red Cross
Dear Editor: The time from Thanksgiving through December is particularly meaningful to me, as it provides an opportunity to reflect with family and appreciate the many blessings we enjoy. This season also offers ample opportunities to contribute positively to our community through various local organizations. I wish to formally acknowledge Bi Mart and its customers…
The Main Event: Boys basketball – Cottage Grove vs. Cascade
COTTAGE GROVE VS. CASCADE ■ Just the facts: The Lions (0-2) will play host to the Cougars (0-1) on Friday, Dec. 12 at 7:15 p.m. ■ Tipping off: These teams faced off last year, with the Cougars beating the Lions 84-63. Cottage Grove has had 23 turnovers in each of its first two games, and…
Billies fall to Ridgeview at ‘Mac Court’
EUGENE – Saturday’s “Return of the Mac” showdown between Pleasant Hill and Ridgeview was the two-week tournament’s featured attraction because of the coaching matchup: former University of Oregon stars Luke Jackson and Maarty Leunen were revisiting the scene of their climb to notoriety. In the end, this one could have been dubbed “The Son Also…
Springfield’s Tyson Park upgrades discussion Dec. 16
Chronicle news service SPRINGFIELD — Willamalane is hosting a neighborhood meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 16, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. to share the proposed final design and the timeline for updates at Tyson Park at 3405 E St. in Springfield. This meeting will be held virtually on Teams, with Spanish closed captions. This project began in February…
Eugene Concert Choir to hold mid-season auditions
EUGENE — Eugene Concert Choir invites passionate, skilled singers to take part in mid-season auditions on Tuesday, Dec. 16. Positions are open in both the 100-member Eugene Concert Choir (ECC) and Eugene Vocal Arts (EVA) – an acclaimed 40-voice chamber ensemble. Appointments are required to audition, and interested singers are encouraged to reach out soon…
One dead in HWY 58 crash
On Friday, Dec. 5, at 2:14 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 58, near milepost 51, about 15 miles southeast of Oakridge. The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Audi Q5, operated by Jessica Nicole Ingoglia, 37, of Klamath Falls, left the lane of travel for unknown reasons, crossed the…
Weekend of search and rescues
On Saturday, Dec. 6, around 10 a.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a missing elderly woman who had driven away from a residence in the Alvadore area, west of Eugene, who wandered away from her vehicle off of Clear Lake Road. Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue (SAR) volunteers and K9s…
Drain man arrested for assault of Springfield woman
SPRINGFIELD – On Dec. 1 at about 3:30 a.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies and Springfield Police officers responded to an injured female at a business on 42nd Street, Springfield. The female was severely injured and was transported to an area hospital. Deputies learned the victim had been beaten by Anthony Leon Vancil, 39, of Drain.…