Despite early spring rainstorms that slowed construction, Cottage Grove’s Main Street Revitalization Project is moving ahead this month. The multi-million-dollar revitalization project is designed to improve the street, sidewalks, pedestrian crossing areas, lighting, and landscaping along the busy route in the city’s Historic District.
JEREMY C. RUARK
Cottage Grove Sentinel
Public works crews are in the process of establishing a new smaller homeless camp site at the vacant lot on 12th Street in Cottage Grove.
The Sentinel has reached out to Cottage Grove Project Coordinator Shauna Neigh for insight into what has been done and what is ahead for the project.
Cottage Grove City Manager
New Public Market offers introductory Spring Fun Festival
Mike Sauerwein said the city is behind its original Oct. 1 timeline is establishing the camp, following the Aug. 22 closure and cleanup of the 12th Street and Douglas Street homeless camps. During the transition, the adjacent Lulu Dog Park at 12th Street has been used as a homeless camp site with hours from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. daily.
Sentinel: What has been done since the project began in February?
Shauna Neigh: A new water main has been installed on Main Street from 9th Street to the bridge. The side street tie-ins have been attached on both sides of 5th Street, 6th Street, 7th Street, and 8th Street. The new hydrants have been placed on 5th Street and 8th Street. City Staff are in the process of sanitizing the lines and will start pressure testing them. Once all tests come back, City staff will start connecting the service to the downtown buildings.
“None of us have ever managed a homeless camp before, so we knew that date was a bit aspirational,” Sauerwein said. “We are hoping that this week we will be able to make the transition. Our goal was to provide folks with a safe and secure place to spend the night and that’s what we are doing.”
New stormdrain and manholes have been placed on 5th Street and 8th Street. In preparation of the street and sidewalk excavation, the trees, traffic lights and streetlights have been removed.
The Sentinel: What needs to be done over the next month and beyond?
Sauerwein said city staff was cleaning up the Lulu Dog Park to reestablish it as a dog park. Specific costs of that cleanup and establishing the smaller homeless camp at 12th Street were not immediately available.
Jeremy C. Ruark / Cottage Grove Sentinel Crews have been digging deep trenches along Main Street and the adjacent streets for the waterline replacements. See more photos with this story at cgsentinel.com.
Neigh: Wildish will continue to place the new storm drain system down Main Street, connecting to the side streets.
how did they navigate through those challenges?
Neigh: Wildish Crews have kept an open line of communication with the City, other than a few adjustments to pipe locations, we have received no notification of challenges.
The Sentinel: What concerns have you and city officials heard from the public about this project, and how have those concerns been addressed?
Twinberry Commons, one of Cottage Grove’s newest nonprofit organizations, plans an all-day Spring Festival and an evening fundraising dinner to reveal plans for transforming its building into a public market that serves the needs of local residents and attracts visitors to town.
The mental health impact facing Oregon’s wildland firefighters
The building is located on the corner of Main Street and Highway 99 in Cottage Grove. The event is scheduled for Saturday, April 26
JEREMY C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
One year ago this month, more than 120 customers and supporters of the Coast Fork Farm Stand gathered at the Armory in response to the impending eviction of the business from its long-time location on South 10th Street.
Oregon’s wildfire season is expected to continue through this month, but the mental scares and impact of the season on the firefighters who battle blazes in Lane County and across the state, and their families, may last a lifetime, according to Jeff Dill, the founder of Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance (FBHA). Dill established the FBHA in 2010 following Hurricane Katrina. He was than a Battalion Chief for a fire department in northwest Chicago.
The new mini homeless camp will include the same restrictions as the former larger camps.
The removal of the street and sidewalk on the south side will follow shortly. Phase 1 will affect the south side of Main Street from the bridge to west of the 6th Street intersection and from the 7th Street intersection to west of the 8th Street intersection. During this time 6th Street and 8th Street will remain open for crossing.
The Sentinel: What challenges have the crews experienced and
“The same rules will apply,” Sauwrwein said. “The camp will be available from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. and the rules will be enforced through our contracting company, One Security of Eugene to help us during this transition period. They are a very experienced homeless camp management company.”
The Sentinel: Any significant changes in the project so far, and if so what changes and why?
Sauerwein and other city officials have told the Sentinel, that there are no additional plans to offer any other long-term sheltering for the homeless.
Neigh: No significant changes.
The Sentinel: Is the project on time and on budget?
Neigh: The project is tracking about a week behind due to the high rain we received in March.
“Cottage Grove will follow state law as we understand it,” Sauerwein said. “That is what we are doing. To change that is up to the legislature. The city of Cottage Grove has no plans to do any kind of a shelter beyond what we are
WHO WE ARE
Neigh: The speed of traffic has been a concern downtown. Both business owners and the construction crew have commented with concern of safety. The Cottage Grove Police Department has sent reminders via social media on the increased fees associated with speed in a construction zone. There has been an increased police presence
currently doing, which is providing a location for folks to spend the night from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.”
Read previous coverage about the homelessness challenges in Cottage Grove and follow new developments at cgsemtinel.com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Sentinel.
The Bookmine celebrates 50 years
Sisters Gail and Roberta “Birdy” Hoelze have spent the past five decades creating and nurturing a welcoming place for locals to gather and connect that also functions as a magnet drawing visitors, from near and far, seeking to know more about Cottage Grove.
CINDY WEELDREYER
Birdy and Gail grew up in Portland and graduated two years apart from Madison High School.
In a foreshadowing of their future as book sellers, they grew up in the Rose City neighborhood made famous by Beverly Cleary, a wellknown children’s author, who used it as a backdrop for the adventures of her book characters, Ramona and Beezus.
The goal was to get an update on the situation, sign a petition of support, and create an action plan to ensure the business’ survival. Owner Scott Burgwin told the crowd the farm stand’s sustained existence was dependent on the ability to transition from a sole proprietorship into a food cooperative.
“I saw our brothers and sisters struggle from the devastation that they saw, so I went back and got my degree and became a licensed counselor,” he said. “We started tracking EMS and firefighter suicides across America.”
Behavioral Impact
According to Dill, firefighters often don’t recognize the behavioral impact of their work.
“We become cultural brainwashed,” Dill said. “Whether it’s structural or wildland fires. So, we are meant to believe we are supposed to act strong, brave, be help, don’t ask for help, and we don’t want to look weak and not ask for help.”
The Sentinel previously reported on the significant outpouring of community support for the Coast Fork Farm Stand (CFFS) and Buying Club, on Friday, May 10. A three-day old plan, to move from its location at 90 South 10th Street across Main Street into the former Covered Bridge Brewery building, was enthusiastically completed in just seven hours.
Burgwin described the move as “a beautiful act of sheer community resilience”.
Dill added that while firefighters are on the front lines battling the wildfires, one of the biggest challenges they face is the unknown.
“It’s how rapidly theses fires can move, and the unknown is where is it going to end? Where will this fire go to and how long will it last? And that is a struggle,” he said.
A celebratory event, held last July in conjunction with the Spirit of BMD celebration, thanked the community for sustaining the farm stand and revealed initial plans to transform the large building into a public market.
FAST FORWARD ONE YEAR
The Bookmine is located in the oldest commercial building in town on the corner of 7th and Main. The wooden 19th Century-era building, that was once a brothel, is filled with thousands of colorful books of all sizes carefully placed to appeal to all ages and interests.
For The Cottage Grove Sentinel
In 1975, when Birdy Hoelzle and her sister Gail opened The Bookmine they were familiar with The Village Green.
It showcases and sells the work of local authors, artisans and craftspeople who make unique giftsgiving items. It hosts authors and artists at the Last Friday Art Walk. It is also the home of its latest store kitty, Story. Fowers, plants, greeting cards, and Euphoria chocolates are also sold inside the store.
Their father traveled a lot and often brought its matchboxes home as keepsakes for his girls. The sisters were in their 20’s when they opened the Main Street bookstore and, to enhance their income, worked as waitresses at the resort.
the way” during the construction project.
Grovers gather to remember Village Green Resort
was created by Walter A. Woodard (W.A.) and his son, Carlton. Some members of the family attended and shared personal memories.
THROUGH THE LENS
The genesis of the Historic District’s iconic bookstore is a group of college friends who first met at Oregon State University in the mid-1970s and then transferred to the University of Oregon to complete their respective degrees. They lived two doors down from the famous author-to-be Ken Kesey and their rented house on 10th and Jefferson became a favorite gathering place.
“So, when you are fighting that fire, you’re trying to do your best to stop it, and yet the wind kicks up at 60 miles an hour and it drags it further and further behind them. That aspect of the unknown is very difficult in wildland fires. The firefighters have that stress and anxiety, and that struggle to protect is a very difficult challenge for the wildland firefighters.”
In the past 12 months, much behind-the-scenes work has advanced the goal of establishing a year-round bustling vendor market featuring owner-operated businesses, offering food, beverages, artisan products, music, fresh produce, crafts, and more for both locals and visitors.
It is often very difficult for family members of the firefighters to understand what emotions there are, and that many firefighters don’t express their emotions, according to Dill.
“It was a wonderful place to work and, being new in town, it
Bob’s Coffee Corner is a cozy plant-filled spot at the back of the store offering hot beverages and a table with chairs that invites
conversation. It was named to honor their father, who they say enjoyed
“My sister and I were budding feminists at the time and were quite shocked by the sexism practiced in the dining room,” she said. “The menu given to a woman had no prices on it and foot pillows were provided so ladies’ uncomfortable shoes could be removed while dining. It was a very different era.”
He said he was given an important job of opening the boxes delivered to the guest rooms and recalled how cool he felt driving the orange golf cart around the property for assigned errands. Years later, another special memory was seeing the famous football player, O.J. Simpson, running on one of the resort’s paths.
Twinberry Commons leaders and Burgwin are now ready to reveal to the community the details of their long-term plan and begin fundraising to make it a reality.
Kris Woodard’s introductory remarks included personal memories he made through the lens of a 12-year-old who was often “in
visiting with people and was a great storyteller.
BACKGROUND
To the delight of those gathered, Kris’ brother, Casey Woodard,
As graduation neared the five friends, Gail and her future husband-to-be Greg Lee, Birdy and her future husband-to-be, Ed Gresset, and their close friend, Alice Doyle, began hunting for a rural property to call home. On Sundays, they would
A $15 000 Woodard Family Foundation grant last year funded the hiring of a project manager to spearhead the development of a solid foundation to support the vision and plan implementation.
“We ask the family members to try to understand the cultural,” he said. “Be direct. Challenge with compassion when something doesn’t look right or doesn’t sound right, and do an internal size up, which we ask the firefighters to do as well,” he said.” Internal size up means asking why am I acting this way, and why am I feeling this way? The best thing we can do is
PHOTO JEREMY C. RUARK / COTTAGE GROVE SENTINEL
CINDY WEELDREYER
Cindy Weeldreyer / Cottage Grove Sentinel
Sisters Birdy (left) and Gail say they treasure the countless happy memories they’ve made with their customers in the past 50 years. They invite people to join them this weekend for a two-day celebration of their store’s milestone anniversary.
JEREMY C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel
South Lane Fire & Rescue to receive $35,000 grant K9, handler assist in dispute arrest
JEREMY C. RUARK
Cottage Grove Sentinel
South Lane County Fire & Rescue will receive a $35 000 state grant to hire additional staff during the upcoming wildfire season, according to the Oregon State Fire Marshal.
The Oregon State Fire Marshal 2025 Wildfire Season Staffing Grants help local fire agencies, many relying on volunteer crews, bring on extra firefighters during wildfire season.
These seasonal staff boost emergency response in 200 agencies across the state, including South Lane Fire in Cottage Grove, from wildfire calls to everyday emergencies, according to local fire chiefs.
Coburg Fire District Chief Chad Minter said the OSFM
The police blotter relates to the public record of incidents as reported by law enforcement agencies.
All individuals arrested or charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Information printed is preliminary and subject to change. For specific details about cases listed, contact the appropriate law enforcement agency.
Cottage Grove Police
MONDAY, APRIL 7
00:21: Disturbance, 800 block South 1st St.
00:31: Business check, 900 block E. Main St.
00:48: Order violation, 800 block South 1st St.
02:58: Disturbance, 500 block E. Madison Ave.
07:03: Fire, 700 block South R St.
08:03: Warrant service, 200 block N. 12th St.
08:32: Juvenile problem, 700 block Row River Rd.
11:01: Welfare check, 2700 block Row River Rd.
11:09: Drugs found, Lane Ct/ N. Lane St.
wildfire season staffing grants have greatly improved his agency’s response capabilities and those in neighboring districts.
“With this funding, we can staff a wildland engine daily during fire season with two additional firefighters who respond to all fires and support five nearby districts,” Minter said. “When not on calls, the crew assists with recruitment, training, outreach, and prevention. This staffing makes up 50% of our rapid response and is essential to keeping fires small. These grants are a smart investment.”
Local fire agencies were eligible to apply for up to $35,000 to increase staffing levels during the fire season. Each summer, the funding adds more than 1,500
firefighters across Oregon. The Oregon legislature allocated $6 million to the program this year.
“The Wildfire Season Staffing Grant is one of our most impactful tools to help local fire agencies respond to emergencies faster, protect communities, and support each other through mutual aid,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana RuizTemple said. “We’re thankful to our legislators for continuing to invest in the safety and resilience of our communities.”
Since 2022, the grant has proven to be a vital resource in increasing preparedness, response capabilities, and overall community safety during Oregon’s increasingly challenging wildfire seasons, according to Ruiz-Temple.
A Cottage Grove resident has been arrested following a physical dispute south of the city.
At approximately 10:20 p.m. Saturday, April 12, Lane County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) deputies responded to a physical dispute in the 32100 block of Rachel Road, south of Cottage Grove.
The caller was able to separate from the other person, identified as 29-year-old Devin Derry Morgan, of Cottage Grove.
“The first deputy on scene learned Morgan had fled along the railroad tracks in the area,” LCSO Sgt. Tim Wallace said. “During additional investigation, deputies developed probable cause to arrest Morgan for Strangulation
POLICE BLOTTER
and Assault in the 4th Degree”
The victim was transported to an area hospital for treatment.
As additional deputies and officers arrived on scene and established a perimeter, K9 Tito responded with his handler Deputy Luke Thomas and began searching the area.
Springfield Police also responded with a drone to assist in the search, according to Wallace.
“During the search, deputies learned Morgan had injured himself while attempting to escape,” Wallace said.
“Tito located Morgan hiding under a tree several hundred yards away and he was arrested without further incident.”
Morgan was transported to an area hospital for treatment, then lodged at the Lane County Jail for
Strangulation and Assault in the 4th Degree. Details of the victim’s identity and what led to the dispute were not immediately available. Springfield Police Department, Cottage Grove Police Department, and Oregon State Police assisted in the investigation.
The Lane County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit is supported by community donations, which funded the purchase of Tito. All donations go directly to the K9 program to supply food, veterinary care, and equipment.
Learn more and donate at: www.lanecounty.org/government/ county_departments/ sheriff_s_office/about_ us_-_now_and_then/ police_services_division/ k9_unit
08:18: Death investigation, 1000 block E. Grover Ave.
08:51: Juvenile problem, 400 block E. Madison Ave.
09:40: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St. 11:35: Dog at large, 300 block S. River Rd.
12:31: Vehicle impound, 8th/Benjamin
12:55: Stolen motor vehicle, 900 block W. Main St.
13:11: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St. 13:47: Illegal parking, 200 block Bluebird St. 13:53: Found property, 1200 block E. Main St. 14:40: Theft, 100 block Hwy 99
15:04: Disturbance, 7th/ Washington
16:30: Citizen assist, 400 block E. Main St. 16:41: Welfare check, 300 block E. Monroe Ave. 19:05: Warrant service, 200 block N. 12th St. 19:45: Warrant service, 200 block N. 12th St.
20:03: Criminal mischief, 100 block Hwy 99
20:19: Suspicious condition, 70 block S. 3rd St.
20:32: Animal info, 77000 block S. 6th St.
22:18: Suspicious vehicle, 100 block S. 10th St.
22:56: Suspicious vehicle, 100 block S. 10th St.
23:16: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.
23:19: Citizen assist, 1400 block E. Main St.
23:46: Suspicious vehicle, 200 block N. 12th St.
23:53: Welfare check, 100 block N. 9th St.
23:56: Suspicious vehicle, 700 block E. Gibbs Ave.
12:01: Suspicious condition, 100 block S. 10th St. 12:46: Agency assist, 200 block E. Harrison Ave.
13:41: Agency assist, 400 block E. Main St.
15:31: Welfare check, 1400 block E. Main St.
15:35: Disorderly subject, 900 block N. 9th St. 15:36: Disorderly subject, 1400 block E. Main St.
15:56: Illegal camping, Elm/M 17:06: Theft, 100 block S. 6th St.
18:00: Assault, 700 block Hwy 99
18:42: Wanted subject, 6th/Picknell
19:11: Disturbance, 900 block Row River Rd.
21:48: Suspicious vehicle, 2500 block E. Main St.
22:00: Vehicle impound, 500 block E. Madison Ave.
22:14: Disturbance, 32000 block Rachel Rd.
22:58: Agency assist, 1500 block S. 4th St. 23:48: DUII, Hwy 99/ Rachel Rd.
SUNDAY, APRIL 13
01:13: Vehicle impound, Hwy 99/Rachel Rd.
02:39: Nuisance, 100 block Gateway Blvd.
02:45: Suspicious condition, 6th/Harrison
03:08: Mental subject, 1500 block Gateway Blvd.
08:45: Business check, 1500 block E. Main St.
09:30: Found drugs, 1500 block Anthony Ave.
11:00: Animal info, 1500 block Hwy 99
11:15: Welfare check, 200 block S. 6th St.
12:58: Found dog, 800 block W. Main St.
13:12: Welfare check, 1200 block E. Harrison Ave.
13:52: Vehicle impound, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.
14:00: Disabled vehicle, Ostrander/Douglas
14:48: Suspicious vehicle, 16th/Pritchett
14:49: Disorderly subject, 700 block S. 14th St.
15:01: Stolen motor vehicle, 1100 block Chestnut Ave.
17:13: Traffic complaint, 1000 block S. 1st St.
18:59: Dog release, 400 block N. 14th St.
19:18: Assault, 200 block N. 10th St.
19:38: Warrant service, 200 block N. 10th St.
19:53: Juvenile problem, 900 block Row River Rd.
21:56: Stolen vehicle recovery, J/Birch
22:15: Nuisance, S/ Carver
22:49: Illegal camping, 900 block N. 9th St.
23:26: Found property, 200 block N. 10th St.
the Chamber’s annual award banquet March 1
The First Citizen Award is given to someone who has actively participated in a variety of service projects and programs leading to a civic improvement, human welfare, and/or environmental enhancement. The recipient has provided service or contributions outside the nominee’s business, profession or vocation.
The awardee has had a positive impact on the social or economic climate of the community and influenced the community through leadership.
Sentinel: Where did you grow up? If elsewhere, what motivated you to move to The Grove?
Peter Dumbleton: I grew up in Hadlyme, Connecticut and my family moved to Oregon when I was 17. I lived in Southern Oregon, and Eugene before I moved to Cottage Grove 17 years ago. I lived in Greenleaf then moved to Cottage Grove to be closer to my sweetie and future wife, Michele Rose.
The Sentinel: What are your business experiences in CG?
Dumbleton: I co-owned
The Crafty Mercantile with my wife Michele for 12 5 years.
The Sentinel: What organizations are you involved in?
Dumbleton: I’ve been involved with Opal Center and the Art Walk for years.
During COVID, I volunteered at the Rural Organizing Project’s food pantry. I helped the Sunrisers Kiwanis Club with their firewood fundraiser to provide scholarships to high school graduates. My wife and I participated in Community Sharing’s Souper Fundraiser.
I enjoy helping individuals and organizations in our community.
The Sentinel: Describe what makes you proud to be a Grover.
Dumbleton: We all pull together when there is a need, even though we all have different opinions.
The Sentinel: How do you feel about winning the award?
Dumbleton: I was surprised and honored because there are so many deserving people in the community. Look for Chamber of Commerce Award Winner profiles at cgsentinel.com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Sentinel.
Tree City USA plants four new trees
There are four new trees in Cottage grove’s Coiner Park to commemorate National Arbor Month.
It was a sunny Saturday morning on April 12 when members of the city’s Urban Forestry Committee and community volunteers planted four trees in an underutilized area on the east side of Coiner Park, near the corner of South 15th Street and Washington Avenue.
The 15 volunteers planted three black tupelo trees, recognized as one of the best and most consistent native trees for fall color and one sargent cherry tree that will have pink blossoms in the spring.
Associate City Planner Leni Crow organized the event and said she was pleased with the community participation.
“We had an incredible turnout from community volunteers and Urban Forestry Committee members,” Crow said. “It’s exciting to see everyone come together to plant four beautiful trees in an underutilized area that just needs some love.”
annually recognized the City of Cottage Grove as a Tree City, USA. It is also the eighth year the City has also received the Foundation’s Growth Award. At its March 24 meeting, the City Council approved a proclamation designating April as National Arbor Month. It urged all citizens to “plant trees to gladden the hearts and promote the wellbeing of present and future generations.”
She noted the Urban Forestry Committee is developing a plan to replant trees in Coiner Park that were destroyed by the January 2024 ice storm. Since 1994, the National Arbor Day Foundation has
Cindy Weeldreyer / Cottage Grove Sentinel
Peter Dumbleton’s willingness to help others and his positive impact on the community earned him the Chamber’s 2024 First Citizen Award.
Cindy Weeldreyer / Cottage Grove Sentinel Urban Forestry Committee Members Tammie Stark and Mark McCaffery plant one of four trees in Coiner Park to commemorate April as National Arbor Month. See more photos with this story at cgsentinel.com.
Cottage Grove area organizations receive $47,500 from Weyerhaeuser
Weyerhaeuser has awarded $297,000 in philanthropic grants across Oregon through its Giving Fund, reinforcing its commitment to investing in the health and resilience of its operating communities.
A total of 61 grants were awarded to nonprofits, community organizations and local fire and wildfire suppression districts in Albany, Cottage Grove, Eugene, Lebanon and other rural areas of Oregon.
“Thriving Oregon communities are essential to the shared success of our company, employees and Oregon residents,” Weyerhaeuser Corporate Giving Manager
Katie Hooker said. “These grants support organizations working to make a difference in the lives of Oregonians, from expanding environmental educational opportunities for kids and teenagers, to providing critical services to our most vulnerable community members.”
Ten grants totaling $47 500 awarded to organizations in the Cottage Grove area include:
• Reach Out and Read Inc. – $5,000 for Reach Out and Read for Cottage Grove Families
• Harrison Elementary –$2 250 for Harrison Hotline
• Springfield Kiwanis Foundation – $3 000 for Safety Town
• Ophelia’s Place – $7 500 for Youth Empowerment Program
• Friends of the Child Advocacy Center Inc.
Death Notice
12th, 2025. Arrangements are in the care of Sunset Hills Funeral Home, Crematorium & Cemetery.
– $7 500 for Kids FIRST Mental Health Program
• South Lane School
District-Cottage Grove High School – $1,675 for Forklift Training
• Yoncalla Booster Club – $5 000 for Yoncalla Elementary Care Closet Food Pantry
• Veterans Legacy –$5,000 for Dog Kennel at Camp Alma
• South Lane School
District/Al Kennedy High School – $2 500 for Agricultural Foods and Natural Resources Career & Technical Education Program
• Boys and Girls Clubs of Emerald Valley – $8 075 for STEAM for All
Weyerhaeuser’s Giving Fund supports U.S. and Canadian communities where the company operates. The fund prioritizes initiatives in seven key areas, which give Weyerhaeuser the flexibility to meet specific needs unique to each community, according to a release from Weyerhaeuser.
Other grants include:
• Albany – 6 grants totaling $7 500
• Eugene – 13 grants totaling $87 000
• Lebanon – 8 grants totaling $42 500
Additional Oregon communities, such as Clatskanie Foundation, Colton Helping Hands, and Coos County Habitat for Humanity received 24 grants totaling $102,500
Food for Lane County, awarded $18,500 during this grant cycle, is using Weyerhaeuser’s support
to address a growing local demand for food assistance.
“We are grateful to the Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund for its support during this critical time in our region,” Food for Lane County Director of Development Rebecca Sprinson said. “The need for our services has grown dramatically, with an astonishing 101% percent increase in visitors to food pantries since 2021 Weyerhaeuser’s grant will help us continue providing essential food assistance to the growing number of individuals and families facing food insecurity in our community.”
Weyerhaeuser is now accepting applications for its 2025 Giving Fund grant cycle. Eligible organizations located within Oregon operating communities are encouraged to apply by September 30, 2025 Organizations can learn more and submit applications at https://www.weyerhaeuser. com/company/values/ citizenship/giving-fund/. ABOUT
WEYERHAEUSER
Weyerhaeuser Company, one of the world’s largest private owners of timberlands, began operations in 1900 and today owns or controls approximately 10 4 million acres of timberlands in the U.S., as well as additional public timberlands managed under long-term licenses in Canada. Learn more at www.weyerhaeuser.com.
School district using air sensors to track pollution
STAFF REPORT
Cottage Grove Sentinel
Following the fire near Dorena last summer and its impact on air quality, the
APRIL 25-26
The Bookmine 50th Anniversary Celebration, Friday Art Walk 6-8 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. -5 p.m. at 702 E. Main Street in the Cottage Grove Historic District. Celebration of this milestone for Cottage Grove’s oldest bookstore and community gathering place.
APRIL 26
Twinberry Commons fundraising event to support the development of a Community Space, a Public Market, a Food Co-op and an Incubator Space. The event includes a daytime festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Cottage Grove Public Market, 926 E. Main Street, and an evening dinner from 5 30 p.m. to 8 30 p.m. For more information see www.twinberrycommons. com. Twinberry Commons is a nonprofit organization supporting efforts to: Develop a Community Space that meets the needs of the local community for information about access to healthy, fresh, sustainably grown and produced foods; Learn new skills and Gain knowledge through community-based educational gatherings, events, and workshops. For tickets visit https:/ givebutter.com/c/MQd9fP
South Lane School District (SLSD) purchased two PurpleAir sensors to enhance the existing air quality monitors in and around Cottage Grove.
These PurpleAir sensors provide real-time air quality data, allowing communities to effectively track air pollution.
One of the sensors has been installed at Dorena School to monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) and has been operational since January. The district is currently working on displaying this sensor’s data on the reader board at Dorena School.
The second sensor will be installed at London School in the coming months.
“This addition will offer the Cottage Grove community more localized air quality information, helping residents stay informed,” the SLSD states in a release.
The data collected from the sensors is available to the public. See the link with this story at cgsentinel.com
Free Compost Giveaway, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at the Center for Rural Livelihoods, 80574 Hazelton Road. Presented by Lane County and Center
for Rural Livelihoods. Also available after May 3 at Community Sharing.
Cottage Grove Humane Society “Pins for Pets” Fundraiser, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday at the Cottage Bowl, 740 Row River Road. Inaugural Cosmic Bowl and “Caught in the Act’ Karaoke with Jared. Standard prices for games and shoe rental. Bring your family and friends, bowl a few games, sing a few songs and help raise funds to support pets in our community.
APRIL 29
South Lane School Board Candidates Forum from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Cottage Grove High School’s cafeteria. The school is located at 1375 South River Road in Cottage Grove. Presented by the Cottage Grove Chamber of Commerce and moderated by the Cottage Grove Sentinel and KNND. This event is co-sponsored by the Blackberry Pie Society and the CG 912 Project. The candidates will have an opportunity to offer an opening statement. Questions will be prepared by the Cottage Grove Chamber Legislative Committee. There will be time set aside for questions from the public. The forum will also be live streamed on the Cottage Grove Chamber Facebook page.
MAY 1-5
Rhythm and Blues Revue at Cottage Theatre, 700 Village Drive. Students pair off with adult performers in this annual fundraising event to support the Cottage Grove High School performing arts programs. MAY 3 Free Compost Giveaway, Saturday, Noon-4pm, Community Sharing, 1440 Birch Avenue. The compost will also be available selfserve during daylight hours at the Community Sharing Garden after May 3 MAY 16 and MAY 30 Storybook Theatre Dorena School Production
Angelinna Lynne Pizzuto
67, of Florence, Oregon, passed away on April
Jeremy C. Ruark / Cottage Grove Sentinel
One of the many murals brightening Cottage Grove’s downtown.
NEWS & VIEWS
OCCU Foundation gift helps bring lifesaving tool to Cottage Grove
JEREMY C. RUARK Cottage
PeaceHealth Cottage Grove Community Medical Center will soon be able to offer the latest technology to help diagnose stroke patients, thanks to a generous gift from OCCU Foundation, the philanthropic arm of OCCU.
The OCCU Foundation’s donation allows the medical center to purchase a platform that will allow providers in Cottage Grove to consult with neurology specialists at Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend’s Comprehensive Stroke Center when patients arrive that may be exhibiting symptoms indicative of a stroke, according to a release from PeachHealth.
The platform, called the Telestroke program, uses audio and video technology so providers at RiverBend can share their expertise and collaborate with Cottage Grove providers caring for patients aged 16 and older in the Emergency Department while also examining the patient remotely.
“The program will have an immediate, positive impact,” Sacred Heart at RiverBend Stroke Medical Director Dr. Elaine Skalabrin said. “The rollout is timely, since May is National Stroke Awareness Month.”
According to the PeachHealth release, When a stroke occurs, every second counts. Having a resource like Telestroke in Lane County communities, including Cottage Grove Community Medical Center, will be invaluable. This partnership enhances the center’s ability to deliver high-quality stroke care, reducing the need for patient transfers and improving outcomes for those experiencing acute stroke symptoms.
The generous gift from the OCCU Foundation is just one way it is helping the residents of Cottage Grove and nearby communities, according to OCCU President and CEO and Chair of the OCCU Foundation Ron Neumann.
“OCCU has significantly increased our investment in south Lane County, and we are thrilled that the OCCU Foundation can support the introduction of Telestroke technology at PeaceHealth Cottage Grove Community Medical Center,” Neumann said. “We believe this initiative will greatly enhance access to advanced medical care and improve health outcomes for individuals across our community.”
The gift exemplifies the power philanthropy can have in a smaller community such as Cottage Grove, according to Jennifer Svihus of the PeaceHealth Foundation.
“When Ron and OCCU approached us about wanting to have a positive impact in south Lane County, we immediately thought of the Telestroke program,” Svihus said. “Their gift effectively brings the providers at RiverBend’s comprehensive stroke center into the exam
rooms at Cottage Grove Community Medical Center.”
Chris Martin, RN, MBA, is the Telestroke Network coordinator, and helped launch the program and has guided its development and implementation. He said this is a perfect use for the technology and an ideal way to help leverage the knowledge found within PeaceHealth.
“As a former EMT and nurse, I recognized the opportunity to provide fast access to the resources we have at RiverBend among our outlying communities,” Martin said. “Now patients in south Lane County will benefit from it, and we expect this is just the start.”
The technology joins a recently upgraded, more advanced CT scanner at Cottage Grove, enhancing the accessibility and care of imaging services for local patients in diagnosing acute strokes.
ABOUT PEACEHEALTH
PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a nonprofit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. PeaceHealth has approximately 16 000 caregivers, nearly 3,200 physicians and clinicians, more than 160 clinics and 9 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. The Sisters shared expertise and transferred wisdom from one medical center to another, always finding the best way to serve the unmet need for healthcare in their communities. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Visit us online at peacehealth.org.
ABOUT OCCU
OCCU is a not-for-profit financial cooperative with more than $3 4 billion in assets. The credit union was founded in Eugene, OR, in 1956, and has an expanding network of branches and web tools to provide its more than 260 000 member-owners with a full suite of financial services. Membership is open to anyone living or working in 31 Oregon counties or anywhere in Washington. Learn more at MyOCCU.org.
ABOUT OCCU FOUNDATION
OCCU Foundation is the philanthropic arm of OCCU. It provides wellness support and community response to the neighborhoods OCCU serves. OCCU Foundation was founded to further extend the credit union’s vision to Enrich Lives. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Foundation is funded by OCCU, businesses, families and individuals. More than $3 million has been granted to build happier and healthier communities since its start in 2018 Learn more at MyOCCU. org/Foundation.
EDITORIAL CARTOONS
With Trump tariffs, Oregon wine is over a barrel
RANDY STAPILUS
Oregon Capital Chronicle
One of the first Oregon impacts of this year’s international trade wars came to our house in a pleasing way: in the form of a few bottles of good wine, gifts from friends who work in that industry. We live in the north Willamette wine country, where personal connections to the wine industry are not hard to find.
Those bottles were emblematic, though, of a bigger situation not nearly so benign.
Some weeks ago, as wineries in our region packed and sent crates of wine north to Canada as they long have done, they encountered a surprise. The border was as far as many of them got, and their wine had to be trucked back, unsold, to Oregon.
Canada had essentially stopped accepting alcohol from the U.S., including Oregon alcohol. The response and rules at the border have shifted, but sales are being heavily impacted by President Donald Trump’s recent tariff announcements.
Many Oregon winemakers are accumulating a wine surplus. Some, probably small but unknown numbers of cases, may be turning into giveaways, pleasant for the recipients but lousy for a wine producer’s bottom line.
The massive worldwide tariffs Trump promised — and then announced he would pause for 90 days — can be expected to further dampen the state’s wine trade. Wine is a smaller part of Oregon’s trade picture than some other commodities, but it offers a useful insight into how the tariffs are affecting the state. And it is a major industry in Oregon, with about 1 100 wineries statewide.
Last week, a friend who had worked in wine import
and export described for me how the system worked.
When shipped internationally, the product changed ownership — from the producer or wholesaler to my friend’s own company — before it crossed the border, so that when the shipment cleared customs, his company paid the tariff or fees (where they existed).
That was the first impact of a tariff. Companies ordinarily factor tariffs into the retail price, and individual wine buyers ultimately pay most or all of that cost. That boosted purchase price is how most people experience tariffs.
The existence of a tariff doesn’t keep something from crossing national lines, and a small tariff may not matter much, but large ones can change the business incentives for all parties.
Oregon wine makers might in one way, at first, benefit from higher tariffs on the countries (such as Italy, Chile, Australia, Argentina and many more) that import wine into the U.S where they are imposed.
That might drive some domestic wine drinkers toward more American producers, which could help Oregon wine producers, though it usually has the effect of raising domestic prices as well.
Other aspects of higher border-crossing prices are
likely to cut against the industry.
Some of those are smaller and might not be especially visible outside the industry, such as higher prices paid by the Oregon industry for imported barrels, steel for supplies and equipment, production equipment and more.
Oregon’s leading export targets overall are (in order) Mexico, China and Canada, and about 81,000 jobs are reliant on that export trade. The impact on trade may be easier to observe in the wine industry, because close to half of all Oregon wine exports go (or in recent years have gone) to Canada: In 2022, that was 73,323 cases of a total export of 162,939
“We’re just watching it play out in real time, and it’s not pretty,” Alex Sokol Blosser, president of Sokol Blosser Winery in Dayton, Oregon, said in a recent KGW interview. “All that business we worked for, and the president lit a match to it.”
Anne Amie vineyards, near Carlton, has been moving from local tasting room sales toward an allwholesale model, and one significant element of that has been a large prospective sale — thousands of cases — to a buyer in Quebec.
Negotiations had been active for months, but after recent Trump trade announcements, Canadians ended them. Other wineries
have had comparable experiences.
There are ripple effects through many other industries as well.
The US Wine Trade Alliance argued on April 2 that “restaurants will suffer, domestic producers will face new obstacles in bringing their wines to market, and retailers, importers, and distributors across the country will be placed at serious risk. With their biggest profit center decimated, many restaurant investors will decide to take their money elsewhere.”
Earlier this month, thousands of Oregonians showed at up the Hands Off anti-Trump rallies around the state, and plenty of signs criticized the new tariffs. I didn’t see any that complained specifically about administration impacts on the wine industry. But it wouldn’t be surprising if, in coming weeks, they start to appear. https://oregoncapitalchronicle. com/2025/04/10/withtrump-tariffs-oregon-wineis-over-a-barrel/ Oregon Capital Chronicle is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Lynne Terry for questions: info@oregoncapitalchronicle.com.
Grove Sentinel
Festival
From Page 1
Newly hired Project Manager Rebecca Allen Lamptey has a lengthy to-do list. At the top of her list is collaborating with fellow public market visionaries to create a comprehensive business plan that guides the market’s incremental growth over time and establishes a strong organizational structure to sustain it.
Lamptey describes Twinberry Commons as an umbrella public benefit nonprofit organization with multiple purposes.
They include:
• Developing a place that provides information about access to healthy, fresh, sustainably grown and produced foods.
• Facilitating learning new skills and gaining knowledge by hosting community-based educational gatherings, events, and workshops.
• Assisting the Farm Stand’s transition into a nonprofit food co-op.
• Creating a public space where locals and visitors can gather
knowledge and develop common ground.
• Partnering with local experts, agencies and other nonprofits to develop an educational incubator training program to support small, local businesses.
SPRING FUN FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES
From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 26, the 5,361-square-foot building will buzz with a wide variety of activities for adults and children offering food, beverages, art, music, children’s activities, a wellness corner and shopping.
Food and Beverages:
Visitors can enjoy Saginaw Vineyard’s recently opened tasting room. Moon Mama Elixir Bar will serve nonalcoholic beverages.
Food trucks offer menus featuring Turkish Kebabs, locally made tamales including vegetarian and vegan options. The Coneheads offer New Zealand-style ice cream. The Farm Stand will have product samples from some of its local and regional suppliers. Music: Throughout the day participants will enjoy a wide variety of music
a few times to enjoy its amenities.
scout out small towns in the Southern Willamette Valley visiting farms and stopping at coffee shops inquiring about rural properties for sale in the area.
ARRIVAL IN COTTAGE GROVE
The sisters were familiar with Cottage Grove from their youth. Their father was an International Harvester Company executive and traveled a lot. He often stayed at the worldrenowned Village Green Resort. He loved it so much he took his daughters there
On the Sunday afternoon the group visited Cottage Grove they stopped at Pep’s coffee shop in the Village Shopping Center. To their surprise, the waitress said there was a little note on the staff bulletin board that said, “FOR SALE BY OWNER: OLD LOG HOUSE, 52 ACRES NEAR DORENA RESERVOIR.”
Gail said, “We drove out to the beautiful, forested Rat Creek property and were completely wowed by it. We found a way to purchase the property on Feb. 24, 1974 That little note is framed in our living room, and we celebrate the date as an annual holiday in our home.”
COTTAGE GROVE:
COTTAGE GROVE FAITH CENTER
33761 Row River Rd.
541-942-4851
Lead Pastor: Kevin Pruett
www.cg4.tv
Full Childrenʼs Ministry available Services: 10:00am
Holy Mass: Saturday Vigil – 5:30 pm Sunday – 10:30 am For weekday and Holy Day of Obligation schedule see website OLPHCG.net
Confession: 4 PM to 5 PM Saturdays or by
appointment
St. Philip Benizi, Creswell
552 Holbrook Lane Sunday 8 am
genres offered by local musicians. Performers include Zimbabwe SingerSongwriter Ratie D, Bradly Shepard, the Silk Creek Singers, Joshua Harrison Thomas and Spence Palermo.
Children’s Activities:
Numerous local creative facilitators provide activities that include art, storytelling and music. South Valley Athletics offers activities to get kids moving and information on its summer programs. The Bohemia Mine Owners Association will teach participants how to pan for real gold.
Vendors: In addition to unique artisan vendors, Spirit of BMD will take photos in its Bohemia City jail cell. A Wellness Corner features chair massages by Tracey Dobbins
Fundraising Activities: A bake sale, raffle prizes and an evening fundraising dinner from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
FUNDRAISING DINNER
Lamptey believes the dinner will be inspirational and generate the money Twinberry Commons needs to develop a community space, a public
Birdy was 22 and Gail was 24 when they all moved into the log house on the north shore of Dorena Lake. All five continued to work in Eugene. Alice and Greg teamed up and created a wholesale plant nursery and named it for their new home: Log House Plants. THE BIRTH OF THE BOOKMINE
The sisters continued to work in Eugene as cocktail waitresses and one day Birdy’s husband Ed asked a life-changing question, “Hey! What if, instead of teaching English, we open a bookstore?” Gail said, “Nice idea, but what would we do?” Ed replied, “We’ll figure it out.”
The threesome didn’t have much business experience
ST. ANDREWS EPISCOPAL CHURCH
1301 W. Main • 541-767-9050
Rev. Lawrence Crumb
“Scripture, Tradition, Reason” Worship: Sunday 10:30am All Welcome
TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH 6th and Quincy 541-942-2373
Vacancy Pastor: Steven Spencer Sunday School and Adult Education 9:15 a.m.
Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.
Comm. Kitchen Free Meal Tuesday 5:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. TLC Groups tlccg.com
UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
334 Washington 541-942-3033 Worship 10am umcgrove.org
CRESWELL:
CRESWELL PRESBYTERIAN
CHURCH
75 S 4th S • 541-895-3419
Rev. Seth Wheeler
Adult Sunday School 9:15am Sunday Worship Service 10:30 am website www.creswellpres.org
WALKER UNION CHURCH & CEMETERY 32904 England Rd, Creswell, OR (541) 649-1800 Pastor: Randy Wood Sunday Service at 11:00 AM Everyone is welcome! Follow us on our Facebook page: WalkerChurchOregon
Cindy Weeldreyer / Cottage Grove Sentinel
Twinberry Commons Project Manager Rebecca Allen Lamptey and Coast Fork Farm Stand Owner Scott Burgwin invite the community to participate in their Spring Fun Festival and evening fundraising dinner to support the establishment of the Cottage Grove Public Market.
market, a food co-op and a business incubator space. She said the guest speakers are local individuals sharing “the amazing things they are doing in our small town”. Selected musicians will provide music. There will be a dessert dash and a Silent Auction of remarkable unique experiences and local artisans. The meal is catered by Branch
when they rented a small storefront, where Opal Park is today, for $100 per month. They found a book wholesale warehouse in Eugene that dealt mostly with school districts and opened an account. They also discovered Bookpeople, a Berkeley, Calif. book co-op. Gail recalled, “Ed, Birdy and I drove down there, opened an account, and bought a nice selection of books. We packed Ed’s VW Bus with boxes of books and headed back to Cottage Grove with our new store’s inventory. Ed was an excellent wood craftsman and built beautiful shelves for our new store, some of are still in use today.”
Ed soon decided retailing and dealing with customers didn’t suit him and the sisters happily became owners of The Bookmine. He partnered with fellow Main Street business owners, Gary and Shireen Weddel, to purchase the historic Cottage Grove Hotel and prevent it from being demolished to create a parking lot.
Houseplants were very popular in the 1970s.
The Weddels’ business,
Project
From Page 1
and tickets have been issued. We will continue to monitor and make the adjustments necessary.
Road Farm with Eugene’s High Street Tonics and Saginaw Vineyard serving beverages.
“This event is critical to the advancement of our bold vision to serve the needs of Cottage Grove for generations to come,” Lamptey said. “We are working diligently to achieve our goals, and we welcome strong, broadbased community support
Plantique, sold plants and antiques. When they decided to move to Alaska, they gave Gail and Birdy a sweetheart deal to move across the street to its current location, initially, for the same $100 monthly rent -- if they continued to sell plants in town.
The Bookmine also became the local retail store for Log House Plants.
REFLECTIONS
As young moms and business owners, they brought their babies to work and created the children’s play area in the front of the store. Gail’s two daughters, Anna and Megan, and Birdy’s son, Sam, spent their first years there. Birdy recalled an unforgettable memory that was a harbinger of the need to find a childcare alternative.
“It was Christmastime, and we bought some nice coffee table books for giftgiving,” she said. “I went looking for Sam and found him happily drawing on all those expensive books.”
They credit the business’ longevity to their desire to be a welcoming place for all and to their commitment to showcase talented local
to make the dream a reality. Our efforts are for the community, by the community.”
More details about Twinberry Commons, the April 26 event, and how to purchase the $65 dinner tickets are available on the organization’s website: www.twinberrycommons. com.
artisans and authors. The biggest book signing event was for Benjamin Hoff’s book, “The Singing Creek Where the Willows Grow,” about Cottage Grove’s most famous resident, Opal Whitely. More than 100 people showed up and the waiting line stretched out the door for several blocks.
“We believe it is important to be able to encounter people you disagree with, with authenticity, and still respect them as fellow humans,” Gail said. “We are so grateful for the wonderful relationships we’ve had with our customers all these years. We are honored when occasionally someone asks if they can come in and sit for a while because they ‘love the way it feels in here’.” Gail and Birdy invite the community to join them to celebrate The Bookmine’s Golden Anniversary during the April 25 Friday Art Walk from 6-8 p.m. and all day on Saturday, April 26 To reach The Bookmine, call 541-942-7414
Who We Are is a frequent Sentinel presentation highlighting the people in our community.
Neigh noted that the City of Cottage Grove is releasing details of the project in its weekly Friday Updates published on the city’s website and the Cottage Grove Chamber of Commerce is conducting a series of events to promote downtown businesses.
The City of Cottage Grove has partnered with the Cottage Grove Area Chamber of Commerce with a promotional stamp card. Go shopping in Historic Downtown Cottage Grove, get six stamps, and turn the card into the Chamber of
BASEBALL Tours
Ultimate Baseball Tour
Commerce, located at 836 E. Main Street, for a chance to win $500 a week in local gift cards. Follow the downtown promotional events at the Chamber’s website and Facebook page.
In a published Sentinel interview in early March, Cottage Grove Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Georgia Haskel emphasized that businesses in the construction site remain open and welcoming.
“Our message is that businesses are open, and they need our support,” she said.
“We like to say, “Pardon our Dust”, we are open! Downtown Cottage Grove is the heart of our community and right now we are having heart surgery. The best way to help us get through it is to come visit!”
The city is displaying a schematic drawing of the Main Street Revitalization Project in the lobby of Cottage Grove City Hall, located at 400 E. Main Street. If you have any questions about the project, please call Project Coordinator Shauna Neigh, at 541-787-4153
Follow this developing story online at cgsentinel. com y print editions of The Sentinel.
Classified
CGS 25-126
LADD CONSTRUCTION, LLC New or remodel, decks, siding, windows, doors, shops, fences. 541-913-1541 ccb# 239015
CGS 25-124
Cottage
CGS 25-122
#E-186 5. Jaylon Christian #F-118 unless payment in full is made before time of auction at 1520 HWY 99 N. Cottage Grove, OR 97424. Auction will be held May 3rd at promptly 11:00AM. Sealed bids on entire unit due in office at 11:30AM. “CASH ONLY” Published April 16th and April 23rd, 2025.
Personal Representative or from the Personal Representative’s attorney. DATED and published: 04/23/2025. /s/ Merrena Janell Conrad, Personal Representative
CGS 25-125
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Merrena Janell Conrad has been appointed Personal Representative of the Estate of WILLIAM ROBERT WALTON, deceased, Lane County Circuit Court Case No. 25PB03219. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them within four months from the date of the first publication of this Notice to the Personal Representative at Willamette NW Law Firm, LLC, 735 W. 7th Ave, Eugene, OR 97402, or they may be barred. Any person whose rights may be affected by these proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, the
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Sean Bishop has been appointed Personal Representative of the Estate of VICKI COLEMAN BISHOP, deceased, Lane County Circuit Court Case No. 25PB03342. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them within four months from the date of the first publication of this Notice to the Personal Representative at Willamette NW Law Firm, LLC, 735 W. 7th Ave, Eugene, OR 97402, or they may be barred. Any person whose rights may be affected by these proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, the Personal Representative or from the Personal Representative’s attorney. DATED and published: 04/23/2025. /s/ Sean Bishop, Personal Representative
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Christina Jensen has been appointed Personal Representative of the Estate of DORA JEAN SIMONSEN, deceased, Lane County Circuit Court Case No. 25PB03324. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them within four months from the date of the first publication of this Notice to the Personal Representative at Willamette NW Law Firm, LLC, 735 W. 7th Ave, Eugene, OR 97402, or they may be barred. Any person whose rights may be affected by these proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, the Personal Representative or from the Personal Representative’s attorney. DATED and published: 04/23/2025. /s/ Christina Jensen, Personal Representative
is
and
publication date.
received after Wednesday 5 p.m. will not appear until two weeks later.
formance on the mound! Emily is hitting .524 with 8 RBIS through 7 games and has thrown 41 innings with 70 strikeouts. Emily showed incredible control and poise, keeping the opposing teams off balance with her screw ball. Beyond the stats, Emily is a key player who exemplifies leadership and dedication, motivating her teammates both on and off the field. Congratulations to Emily Pacheco for being recognized.
U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley is leading his Democratic colleagues in the Oregon delegation—Senator Ron Wyden and U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR01), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), and Janelle Bynum (OR05)—in urging the U.S. Department of Commerce to declare a federal fishery resource disaster for the 2024 Oregon troll salmon fishery.
salmon loss has on Oregon’s
cannot be understated, as the state’s commercial fishing industry generates more than $640 million in economic activity each year, equivalent to 9,200 jobs, according to the release.
“We write to urge your expeditious approval of Oregon Governor Kotek’s request for a fishery resource disaster declaration under section 312(a) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act for the Oregon troll salmon fishery. This declaration is critical to provide economic relief to Oregon’s fisheries and coastal communities in addition to protecting the sustainability of wild salmon populations,” the lawmakers state in a letter to the U.S. Department of Commerce Director.
In 2024, Oregon’s troll salmon fishery struggled amid worsening effects of climate change, increased drought, shifting ocean conditions, and other impacts leading to poor salmon returns, the release states. Facing these significant challenges, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) estimates that 2024 Chinook salmon population levels were below forecasts, with 2025 Chinook salmon populations likely “not high enough to allow for target summer Chinook fisheries.
The impact salmon loss has on Oregon’s economy cannot be understated, as the state’s commercial fishing industry generates more than $640 million in economic activity each year, equivalent to 9,200 jobs, according to the release.
“Despite best efforts from our local fishermen and state and local partners, the economic consequences of this crisis threaten both salmon fishermen and the broader economy of Oregon’s coastal communities which rely on the fishery,” the lawmakers’ letter reads.
As the Pacific Fisheries Management Council
(PFMC) undergoes the process to finalize its 2025 salmon season management recommendations, the Oregon delegation is pushing for U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to quickly grant Governor Tina Kotek’s request for a federal fishery disaster under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act.
The action is critical to access federal funding needed to ease the economic uncertainty for Oregon’s commercial troll salmon fishery, while recognizing the immense role salmon hold in the cultural heritage of Pacific Northwest Tribes, recreation, and as a treasured natural resource across the state.
The Oregon delegation has been essential in securing past federal fishery disaster declarations in the state through a series of actions, which led to the Commerce Department sending Oregon a total of $7 050 722 for the fishery disaster declared for 2018, 2019, and 2020 Oregon Chinook salmon ocean commercial fisheries. The lawmakers said they will keep pushing for federal support for this critical industry while local, state, and federal partners continue work on long-term solutions.
“We urge you to direct your attention to Governor Kotek’s request for a fishery resource disaster declaration. We look forward to your timely response, and our offices stand ready to work with you to recover and sustain Oregon’s commercial fisheries,” the Oregon delegation letter states in its closing. Follow developments at cgsentinel.com and in the Wednesday print edition of The Sentinel.
