The Cottage Grove
entinel entinel Community rallies in Coiner The CoTTage grove
Local Veterans Salute
State Parks Future
See page 8
See pages 3
Wednesday November 19, 2025 | Number 46, 137 years
Park after ICE sweeps CGHS Football Incredible Turnaround See page 8
See page 4
CINDY WEELDREYER
Cottage GroveOctober Sentinel Wednesday 9, 2024 | Number 39, 135 years
Candles glowed and signs silently spoke support for the individuals and families affected by the Nov. 5 actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers, who conducted an early morning operation in Cottage Grove. A total of nine Guatemalan immigrants were removed from the community and taken to the Eugene C. RUARK Federal JEREMY Building with plans to transCottage Grove Sentinelfacility fer them to an ICE detention in Tacoma, Washington, Public works crews areaccording in the to mediaofreports. process establishing a new Local homeless businesswoman Juanita smaller camp site at the Avila a specialty vacantowns lot onJuanita’s, 12th Street in Cottage grocery Grove. and convenience store located at 12 S. Sixth that Cottage Grove CityStreet Manager serves Cottage Grove, andcity members Mike Sauerwein said the is local Guatemalan combehind its originaland Oct.Latina 1 timeline munities, with food, goodsfollowing and seris establishing the camp, vices not 22 widely available elsewhere the Aug. closure and cleanup in of town. the 12th Street and Douglas ICE homeless agents removed fromthe Street camps.her During her van, forced her to the ground transition, the adjacent Lulu Dog and before Parkhandcuffed at 12th Street has her beendaughter, used Emely Agustin,camp arrived verify as a homeless sitetowith hours that mother legal permafromher 7 p.m. to 7was a.m.a daily. nent resident. was then released, “None of usShe have ever managed Avila told The Sentinel a homeless camp before,insoa pubwe lished online knew that datereport was ajust bithours aspira-after the incident. tional,” Sauerwein said. “We are Avila,that Agustin, and U.S. Rep. hoping this week we will be Val were the speakers ableHoyle to make theamong transition. Our who aboutfolks 150 people goal addressed was to provide with gathered the Coiner gazebo a safe andatsecure placePark to spend for Strength in Community vigil the anight and that’s what we are Monday doing.” night, Nov. 10, organized by Sauerwein the Cottagesaid Grove of cityFriends staff was Democracy, a volunteer nonpartisan cleaning up the Lulu Dog Park to grassroots action reestablishpolitical it as a dog park.group Specific focused defense and advancecosts of on thatthe cleanup and establishment of smaller democracy through peaceful ing the homeless camp at community action.not immediately 12th Street were available.
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Wednesday, November 19, 2025 P.M. Showers
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Willamette 74 Valley 49 reservoir $2.00 drawdowns scheduled The mental Cottage Grove
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City establishing mini health impact homeless camp at 12th Street facing Oregon’s STAFF REPORT Cottage Grove Sentinel
Crews began developing the smaller homeless camp site this week on the vacant lot at 12th Street.
PHOTO JEREMY C. RUARK / COTTAGE GROVE SENTINEL
Sauerwein and other city officials currently doing, which is providing The new mini homeless camp a location for folks to spend the will include the same restrictions as have told the Sentinel, that there / Cottage Grove Sentinel are no additional plans to offer any Cindy nightWeeldreyer from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.” the former larger camps. U.S. Rep. Val Hoyle addresses the people attending the Nov. 10 prayer vigil in Coiner other long-term sheltering for the Read previous coverage Park. about “The same rules will apply,” homeless. the homelessness challenges in Sauwrwein said. “The camp will With her daughter standing next interfering with the ICE operation trucks. They didn’t identify them“Cottage Grove will follow Cottage Grove and follow new be available from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. to her, Avila spoke briefly and and that she became a victim of selves as ‘Immigration’ until after state law as we understand it,” developments at cgsemtinel.com and the rules will be enforced thanked the community for its supracial profiling. they threw her to the ground and Sauerwein said. “That is what we and in the Wednesday print editions through our contracting company, port. Agustin told the crowd her “They were stopping people of are doing. To change that is up to of The Sentinel. One Security of Eugene to help us mother was simply driving and not color driving to work in vans and See ICE Page 6 the legislature. The city of Cottage during this transition period. They Grove has no plans to do any kind are a very experienced homeless of a shelter beyond what we are camp management company.”
City weighs ownership future of shower trailer
Drawdowns at the Cougar, Green Peter, Lookout Point, and Fall Creek reservoirs are scheduled this fall. The lower reservoir levels, or “drawdowns,” are a critical and required element of the 2024 National Marine Fisheries Service’s Biological Opinion (BiOp). JEREMY C. RUARK The BiOp is a formal docuCottage Grove Sentinel ment that details whether a federal Oregon’s wildfire is action – in this case, season the continued expected of to continue throughPeter this operation Cougar, Green month, but theand mental Lookout Point Fallscares Creekand impact of the season on the firereservoirs – is likely to jeoparfighters who battle blazes in Lane dize the continued of an County and across existence the state, and endangered species or result in the their families, may last a lifetime, destruction of its critical habitat. according to Jeff Dill, the founder The findings inBehavioral the BiOp Health ensure of Firefighter federal agencies comply with the Alliance (FBHA). established the Endangered FBHA in lawDill as outlined in the 2010 following Hurricane Katrina. Species Act. He was2024 thanNMFS a Battalion The BiOpChief includes for a fire department in northwest measures, such as reservoir drawChicago. downs, that aim to help endangered “I saw our brothers and sisters salmon exit the reservoirs through struggle from the devastation that the downriver. theydams saw,tosomigrate I went back and got Portland District Program my degree and became a licensed Manager Kathryn Tackley is workcounselor,” he said. “We started ing to implement the BiOp. tracking EMS and firefighter sui“Spring Chinook salmon are cides across America.” surface-oriented, so lowering reserBehavioral Impact voir levels closer to the dam outlets According Dill, firefighters improves theirtoability to move out often don’t recognize the behavioral of the reservoir and downstream,” impact of their work. Tackley said. cultural brain“We become The drawdowns conducted washed,” Dill said.are “Whether it’s to mimic natural river conditions structural or wildland fires. So,and we help juvenile andare steelhead are meant to salmon believe we supmigrate downstream. posed tosafely act strong, brave, be help, don’t ask drawdowns for help, andshould we don’t “These be want to look not ask considered theweak new and normal for for help.”reservoirs until USACE conthese Dill physical added that while firefighters structs fish-passage strucare on front the lines battling the tures to the replace need for the wildfires, one of the biggest chaldrawdowns,” Tackley said. lenges they face is the unknown. The “It’sU.S. howArmy rapidlyCorps thesesoffires can Engineers was scheduled host a move, and the unknown istowhere virtual public information session is it going to end? Where will this Thursday 13, to disfire go to evening, and how Nov. long will it last? cuss plans to lower reservoir levels And that is a struggle,” he said. “So,fall when you are Green fightingPeter, that this at Cougar, fire, you’re trying do Creek your best Lookout Point, andtoFall resto stop The it, and yet thewas wind kicks ervoirs. session designed at 60 miles an hour and it drags toupprovide an overview of the resit further and further them. ervoir drawdowns, thebehind anticipated That aspect of the unknown is very drawdown schedule, and how this difficult in wildland fires. The fireyear’s operations previfighters have thatdiffer stress from and anxiety, ous years. USACE employees and that struggle to protect is awere very scheduled to recordfor thethe session and difficult challenge wildland make it available on the USACE firefighters.” Portland District channel. It is often veryYouTube difficult for familyTackley members the USACE firefighters saidofthe heldtothe understand what emotions are, public information session there despite andongoing that many firefighters don’t the lapse in appropriations express the theirreservoir emotions, according because drawdowns to Dill. are directly related to life, health, “We ask the family members and safety; and the Cougar, Green to try to understand the cultural,” Peter, Lookout PointChallenge and Fall Creek he said. “Be direct. dams’ primary function is flood with compassion when something risk management to protect and doesn’t look right or doesn’tlife sound property. right, and do an internal size up, For more information abouttothe which we ask the firefighters do 2025 as well,” he said.” Internal size fall reservoir drawdowns, up means asking why am I acting visit https://www.nwp.usace. this way, and why am I feeling this army.mil/Media/News-Releases/ way? The best thing we can do is Article/4313957/reservoir-draw-
wildland firefighters
Community Sharing would assume all duties outlined in the expired agreement, including proWho should own the community viding cleaning supplies, maintainshower trailer in a post-pandemic ing liability insurance, covering environment? workers’ compensation for volunCommunity Sharing Executive teers, and making minor repairs. Director Mike Fleck appeared The agency would also provide an before the Cottage Grove City annual report on the trailer’s status Council Monday evening, Nov. and use. 10, to discuss the future ownerSCENARIO TWO: Transfer CINDY WEELDREYER / COTTAGE GROVE SENTINEL ship of the two-room shower trailer Ownership to Community Matchbooks from the Village Green Resort in Cottage Grove. See more photos with this story at cgsentinel.com. Sharing purchased by the city during the The city would use a bill of sale COVID-19 pandemic. to transfer ownership to CS without In December 2020, the city monetary exchange. purchased a Montondo Shower Fleck told the council that his and Restroom Trailer for $59,929. agency’s insurance provider will It has two rooms that contain a not trailer it’s relocated CINDY WEELDREYER the cover way” the during the ifconstruction helped us meet many of our future Nearly 50 people attended the shower, toilet and sink andSentinel one Cindy Weeldreyer / Cottage Grove Sentinel during a disaster response. He also For The Cottage Grove project. bookstore customers,” Birdy said. Cottage Grove Historical Society’s room is ADA accessible. In August The trailer isa humorous currentlymemhoused at“Farewell Community Sharing’s office noted andgiven federal He that said state he was an funding importShe shared to the Village Green” at In 1975, when Birdy Hoelzle 2021, it signed an agreement with and provides free shower services once a week on Wednesremains uncertain, making long-term ant job of opening the boxes ory they made in the formal Iron the Community Center, Saturday, and her sister Gail opened The Community Sharing (CS) to operate days. operational difficult. delivered tocommitments the guest rooms and Maiden Dining Room that drew Sept. 21. Bookmine they agreement were familiar with the trailer. That expired In response to council questions, recalled how cool he felt driving laughter from the crowd. The internationally famous resort The Village Green. Dec. 31, 2022, and has not been Under the expired agreement, compensation, which costs $171.75 Fleck said the is well the used. the orange golftrailer cart around “My sister and I were budding was created by Walter A. Woodard Their father traveled a lot and renewed. the city remains responsible for annually. CS staff are recruiting volunteers property for assigned errands. Years feminists at the time and were quite (W.A.) and his son, Carlton. Some often matchboxes home Thebrought trailer isitscurrently housed major repairs and insures the trailer SCENARIO ONE: to offeranother a second shower day each later, special memory was shocked by the sexism practiced in members of the family attended and as keepsakes for his girls. The sisat Community Sharing’s office and for loss and damage. In the curRenew Agreement week. Hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., seeing the famous football player, the dining room,” she said. “The shared personal memories. ters were in their 20’s when they provides free shower services once rent fiscal year, the city’s cost is The city retains ownership, covers and average use is about 15 showers O.J. Simpson, running on one of the menu given to a woman had no theWednesdays. Main Street bookstore aopened week on City and $366.77. A city employee works two majorTHROUGH repairs, insures theLENS trailer, and per day, each lasting 15 minutes. THE resort’s paths. prices on it and foot pillows were and, to enhance their income, CS staff presented two scenarios to to three hours each Wednesday to continues weekly cleaning. In the City Manager Sauerwein Kris Woodard’s introductory To the delight Mike of those gathered, provided so ladies’ uncomfortable worked as waitresses at the resort. update the agreement. deep clean and disinfect the trailer. event of aincluded natural personal disaster ormememersaid it’s difficult to quantify future remarks Kris’ brother, Casey Woodard, shoes could be removed while din“It was a wonderful place to CURRENT OPERATIONS Additionally, state law requires gency, themade trailer wouldthe be lens available ories he through of ing. It was a very different era.” downs-coming-to-willamette-valleywork and, being new in town, it volunteers be covered by workers’ for community-wide use.often “in a 12-year-old who was See CITY PagePage 6 See LEGACY, 6 See HEALTH, Page 6 this-fall-detroit-drawdown-plan/. CINDY WEELDREYER Cottage Grove Sentinel
Grovers gather to remember Village Green Resort
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COTTAGE GROVE SENTINEL • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2025
Officers respond to variety of calls for service The following is a closer look at the daily calls received last week by the Cottage Grove Police Department (CGPD). The names of the individuals involved have not be released by the CGPD. • Officers conducted a traffic stop on Highway 99 near Harrison Avenue for a speeding violation. The driver displayed multiple signs of impairment upon contact. Driver admitted to consuming two vodka
screwdrivers approximately 15 minutes prior to driving. Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) were attempted but unable to be completed safely due to his level of impairment. He was subsequently taken into custody for DUII/Reckless Driving and later provided a breath sample of 0.18% BAC, more than twice the legal limit of 0.08%. He was charged with Reckless Driving (ORS 811.140) and DUII (ORS 813.010).
Multiple fire extinguishers were used to put out the fire. South Lane Fire and Rescue arrived and made certain that the fire was completely put out. • Dispatch received a call regarding a disturbance between a juvenile and a family member. Officers arrived and performed a thorough investigation regarding the events that had occurred. It was then determined that the juvenile would be arrested and
• Officer responded to a 20-foot log on fire at the Frisbee Golf Course.
transported to SERBU to be lodged on charges of Assault in the Forth Degree (ORS 163.160). • Officers performed a bike stop for not displaying lights. When dispatch ran the individual, it turned out they had an active warrant out of Cottage Grove Municipal Court. The subject was issued a Citation in Lieu of Custody for Failing to Appear on Offensive Littering charges.
• A verbal dispute between a male and female was called into dispatch. Upon arrival, the officers contacted the involved parties. Upon completion of their investigation, it was determined that the male would be issued a criminal citation for Disorderly Conduct in the Second Degree (ORS 166.025) and was issued a park Exclusion Order, trespassing the male from the park for 60 days.
POLICE BLOTTER 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, NOV. 3 01:48: Suspicious subject, 1000 block E. Main St. 03:40: Suspicious subject, 100 block N. 9th St. 04:37: Illegal camping, 200 block N. 12th St. 04:49: Motor vehicle crash, Hwy 99/Latham 08:33: Welfare check, 1600 block Samuel Dr. 09:30: Theft, 34000 block Shoreview Dr. 12:38: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St. 13:58: Suspicious condition, 1300 block Elm Ave. 14:00: Found dog, 1200 block Gateway Blvd. 14:59: Theft, 100 block N. 7th St. 16:36: Theft, 900 block Row River Rd. 17:19: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St. 17:31: Animal info, 2500 block E. Main St. 17:40: Hit and run, 2700 block Row River Rd. 18:40: Motor vehicle theft, 400 block S. 16th St. 20:45: Fire, 74000 block Conifer Ct. 21:43: Unlawful entry into a motor vehicle, 700 block Row River Rd.
23:00: Missing juvenile, 1800 block Harvey Rd. TUESDAY, NOV. 4 08:09: Unlawful entry into a motor vehicle, 700 block Row River Rd. 08:39: Motor vehicle theft, 400 block S. 16th St. 09:29: Dog at large, 900 block Lincoln Ave. 11:15: Trespass, 100 block Sweet Ln. 11:19: Welfare check, Gateway/14th St. 12:00: Order violation, 500 block Grant Ave. 12:54: Fraud, 500 block Grant Ave. 14:28: Agency assist, 1700 block Parks Rd. 15:54: Firearm purchase denial, 100 block Gateway Blvd. 16:38: Fraud, 400 block E Main St. 17:29: Trespass, 1100 block E. Chamberlain Ave. 18:09: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St. 18:20: Welfare check, 200 block N. 16th St. 19:17: Stolen motor vehicle recovery, 400 block E. Main St. 20:02: Harassment, 200 block N. 16th St. 22:10: Hit and run, 1500 block Gateway Blvd. WEDNESDAY, NOV. 5 06:40: Repo, 100 block S. 16th St. 07:35: Disorderly subject, 200 block N. 12th St. 08:12: Illegal camping, 500 block S. River Rd. 09:53: Harassment, 100 block Sweet Ln. 11:02: Agency assist, 100 block S. 7th St. 11:16: Order violation, 100 block Sweet Ln. 11:50: Business check, 1200 block Hwy 99
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12:17: Order violation, 500 block N. River Rd. 12:58: Juvenile problem, 100 block S. 10th St. 13:16: Trespass, 500 block N. River Rd. 13:21: Motor vehicle crash, Mosby Creek/Currin Blvd. 15:15: Welfare check, Chadwick/Lane 15:21: Illegal camping, Gateway/14th 15:36: Disturbance, 700 block Row River Rd. 16:06: Suspicious subject, 500 block Monroe St. 20:46: Barking dog, 100 block S. 6th St. 20:53: Disturbance, 2700 block Bennett Creek Rd. 20:58: Agency assist, I5 NB MP 174 21:30: Barking dog, 100 block S. 6th St. 22:18: Alarm, 100 block Village Dr. 22:34: Suspicious vehicle, 1400 block N. Douglas St. 22:49: Suicide, 700 block N. 11th St. 23:31: Welfare check, 1100 block S. 6th St.
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11:52: Reckless driving, I5 NB MP 180 12:54: Abandoned vehicle, 500 block Kathleen Dr. 13:57: Abandoned vehicle, Bryant/R 14:13: Fire, 32000 block Doolittle Rd. 14:46: Disturbance, 32000 block Harris Dr. 15:04: Found property, 400 block E. Main St. 15:12: Criminal mischief, 900 block Row River Rd. 18:47: Harassment, 100 block Gateway Blvd. 20:32: Agency assist, 174 I5 SB 21:08: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St. 22:34: Business check, 900 block E. Main St. THURSDAY, NOV. 6 00:04: Business check, 900 block E. Main St. 02:47: Agency assist, 100 block N. 16th St. 07:40: Nuisance, 200 block N. 12th St. 09:01: Criminal mischief, 100 block S. 15th St. 09:35: Dog at large, 6th/ Taylor 09:40: Suicidal subject, 100 block Gateway Blvd. 11:21: Dog at large, 3200 block Row River Rd. 12:01: Alarm, 100 block Gateway Blvd. 14:42: Agency assist, 1000 block Hwy 99 15:06: Disturbance, 32000 block Eaglewood Dr. 16:15: Trespass, 700 block Hwy 99 16:47: Missing person, 900 block W. Main St.
17:13: Alarm, 77000 block Hwy 99 18:05: Disorderly subject, 32000 block Eaglewood Dr. 18:18: Order violation, 400 block E. Main St. 18:27: Motor vehicle crash, Row River Rd/ I5 19:28: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St. 19:59: Warrant service, Main/9th 22:01: DUII/ATL FRIDAY, NOV. 7 01:04: Barking dog, 900 block Birch Ave. 05:23: Missing juvenile, 100 block Karen Ct. 07:37: Warrant service, 200 block N. 12th St. 07:52: Warrant service, 1300 block E. Jefferson Ave. 08:11: Juvenile problem, 1900 block Harvey Rd. 08:14: Disorderly subject, 32000 block Eaglewood Dr. 08:57: Warrant service, 100 block W. 5th St. 09:02: Fraud, 100 block North L St. 09:20: Welfare check, 800 block N. 11th St. 11:45: Fire, 100 block Tyson Dr. 11:55: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St. 12:31: Disturbance, 99/ Lynx Hollow Rd. 12:33: Disorderly subject, 100 block N. 6th St. 12:36: Abandoned vehicle, Monroe/5th 13:15: Wanted subject, 100 block N. 22nd St. 13:20: Warrant service, 200 block N. 12th St. 13:59: Welfare check, 900 block Kristen Way
14:51: Disturbance, 900 block Row River Rd. 15:55: Illegal camping, 2700 block Row River Rd. 15:58: Found dog, Hwy 99/River Rd. 16:01: Agency assist, 2400 block E. Main St. 16:46: Hit and run, 1700 block E. Main St. 19:01: Disorderly subject, 6th/Main 19:07: Trespass, 1500 block Gateway Blvd. 20:56: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St. 21:25: Welfare check, 1700 block E. Main St. 21:54: Suspicious subject, 200 block Gateway Blvd. 22:17: Suspicious vehicle, 100 block S. 10th St. 22:41: Suspicious vehicle, 1300 block E. Main St. 23:05: Disorderly subject, Row River Rd/I5 23:43: Warrant service, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.
SUNDAY, NOV. 9 02:14: Suspicious subject, 77000 block London Rd. 03:03: Suicidal subject, 94000 block Hwy 99 08:29: Hit and run, 1600 block Gateway Blvd. 09:37: Dog at large, 1st/ Jackson 10:37: Disturbance, 900 block Arthur Ave. 11:00: Nuisance, 500 block N. River Rd. 11:55: Trespass, 400 block Kalapuya Way 12:03: Harassment, 1600 block Pritchett Pl. 12:13: Illegal camping, Hayes/4th 12:19: Trespass, 600 block N. 9th St. 13:56: Harassment, 100 block Gateway Blvd. 14:31: Found property, 900 block Row River Rd. 15:34: Trespass, 80000 block Hwy 99 16:23: Theft, 1500 block E. Main St. 16:43: Welfare check, 2600 block S. 6th St. 18:48: Suspicious vehicle, 3200 block Row River Rd. 20:52: Disorderly subject, 1500 block Gateway Blvd. 21:40: Suspicious vehicle, 1300 block S. River Rd. 22:29: Suspicious vehicle, 3200 block Row River Rd. 23:18: Suspicious vehicle, 900 block Row River Rd. 23:30: Warrant service, 200 block N. 12th St.
SATURDAY, NOV. 8 00:22: Disorderly subject, 1500 block Carobelle Ct. 02:21: Agency assist, 1500 block Hwy 99 04:11: Suspicious vehicle, 100 block S. 10th St. 04:19: Warrant service, 900 block Row River Rd. 07:13: Illegal camping, 300 block Gateway Blvd. 07:19: Found property, Hwy 99/Main 09:05: Harassment, 500 block E. Main St. 09:21: Abandoned vehicle, 700 block E. Gibbs Ave. 10:41: Fraud, 1500 block E. Main St.
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COTTAGE GROVE SENTINEL • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2025
Poor air quality linked to more emergency visits OREGON HEALTH AUTHORITY
New Oregon Health Authority (OHA) data show that when air quality worsens in Oregon, more people visit emergency departments and urgent care clinics for breathing-related illnesses and mental health conditions. The findings come from OHA’s newly updated Air Quality & Health Outcomes data dashboard, which tracks near-real-time health trends across the state. The data reveal clear connections between days with high levels of smoke or pollution and spikes in visits for asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), anxiety and other respiratory or stress-related symptoms. “Oregon’s near-real-time data show us what we’ve long suspected—that poor air quality affects not just our lungs, but also our
mental well-being,” Data and Epidemiology Unit Manager Jen Seamans. “This insight helps local health partners and hospitals prepare for the health impacts of smoke and other air pollution events as they happen.” Emergency visits rise during smoke events • During the 2020 wildfire in Oregon, the statewide increase in asthma-like illness visits was about 25% compared to the preceding four-week period. • For the tri-county (Clackamas, Multnomah, Washington) region, emergency department visits for air quality-related respiratory illness in 2022 were 44% greater in Washington County compared with the 2016-2019 average, 35% greater in Clackamas County and 7 % greater in Multnomah County. Some groups are more affected
Hispanic/Latino communities experienced about a 30% increase in asthmarelated visits during major smoke events—higher than other groups (about 22%). Mental health effects also increase • On days with poor air quality, visits related to anxiety and stress are higher statewide. • Data finds associations between exposure to wildfire smoke and increased selfreported symptoms affecting mental health among adults. Data for the dashboard come from Oregon’s Electronic Surveillance System for the Early Notification of Community-Based Epidemics (ESSENCE) and the National Syndromic Surveillance Program (NSSP), which summarize emergency department and See VISITS, Page 4
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Celebrating Veterans
Courtesy from Bradly Shepherd Photography
The local veterans honor guard prepares to fire the ceremonial 21-gun salute in front of the Cottage Grove Armony during a ceremony on Nov. 11. The community observance was organized by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) with assistance from the American Legion. Hosted by VFW Post Commander Howard Lytle, it featured a Scouts’ color guard, and opening prayer by VFW Chaplain Bryan Ducker, music by the Lincoln Middle School Choir, a ceremony to honor Prisoners of War and Missing in Action and a keynote address by Lt. Kevin Murry, U.S. Navy. See more photos online with this story at cgsentinel.com.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR NOV. 19 Oregon Aviation Museum Open. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 2475 Jim Wright Way. Coast Fork Kiwanis Club. Noon. Sol Azteca Mexican Restaurant. 3015 Row River Rd. Senior Center Pinochle Games. 1 p.m. Senior Center. 700 E. Gibbs Ave. The Rotary Club of Cottage Grove. Networking time 5 p.m. Meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. El Tapatio Restaurant Banquet Room, 725 E. Gibbs Ave. Acoustic Jam with Gregg Biller. 6-7:30 p.m. Coast Fork Brewing. 106 S. 6th St. NOV. 20 T.O.P.S. Club. 9:30-11 a.m. Delight Valley Church of Christ, 33087 E Saginaw Rd. Weight loss support group. Baby Lap Time (birth to 2 yrs). 11:30 a.m. Cottage Grove Public Library, Great socializing opportunity for parents and babies Bohemia Gold Mining Museum Open. 1-4 p.m. 308 S. 10th St. Oregon Aviation Museum Open, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 2475 Jim Wright Way. Teen Gaming. 4 p.m., CG Public Library, 700 E. Gibbs Ave. Youth 11-18 are welcome to socialize and play games. Table Tennis, 4-6 p.m. Community Center Reception Hall. 700 E. Gibbs Ave. Tables, paddles, and balls provided. Bohemian Tavern. Football and Karaoke. Kickoff at 4:15 p.m. and Karaoke at 9 p.m. Veterans of Foreign Wars Community Fundraising Dinner. 4:30-6 p.m. 3160 Hillside Dr. Menu: Thanksgiving roasted turkey dinner with mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, veggie, roll salad, coffee and tea $10 Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours. 5:30-7 p.m. Monthly networking opportunity hosted by Chamber members. Alex Salcido (Americana). 5:30-7:30 p.m. Coast Fork Brewing. 106 S. 6th St. Celebrate Recovery. 6 p.m. Calvary Chapel. 1447 Hwy 99N. CR is a Christian-based recovery program for any hurt, habit, or hang up that is based on 8 Principles and 12 Steps. A soup dinner is served at 6:15 p.m. and the large group begins at 7 p.m. AWANA. 6:30-8 p.m. Cottage Grove Bible Church. 1200 E. Quincy Ave. A midweek discipleship ministry for youth from Age 3 thru 8th grade. Features Bible memorization and fun, structured activities. Info: 541.942.4771.
Jeremy C. Ruark / Cottage Grove Sentinel
NOV. 21 Oregon Aviation Museum. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 2475 Jim Wright Way. Cottage Grove Public Library Storytime. 11:30 a.m. 700 E. Gibbs Ave. (all ages welcome). Bohemia Gold Mining Museum Open. 1-4 p.m. 308 S. 10th St. American Legion Post 32 Bingo. 5 p.m.- 7 p.m. 826 W. Main St. Sassafras (Americana/ Celtic). 6-9 p.m. Coast Fork Brewing, 106 S. 6th St. Weekly Pool Tournament. 7 p.m. Bohemian Tavern. 48 N. 9th St. Entry Fee: $5 and BCA Rules. Rich McCloud (multigenres). 8-10 p.m. Axe and Fiddle, 657 E. Main St. Cover: $5. NOV. 22 The Row River Sunshine Club Fall Rummage and Bake Sale. 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Row River Christian Fellowship Church in Dorena. All rummage items are only 25 cents. BBQ lunch. All Veterans receive free lunch and gratitude for their service to our country. Share Fair USA 9 a.m. 1133 E. Main St. (covered parking area next to Urban Kitchen) Reserve a space and share from your abundance with neighbors who are in need. Load up your unwanted items to give away for free (no bartering). Details about the weekly event is on Share Fair USA Facebook page or send email to eventsbyananda@gmail.com CG Historical Society Presentation. 10 a.m. Community Center Shepherd Room. 700 E. Gibbs Ave. Topic: Log House Plants celebrates 50 years in Cottage Grove. All are welcome to come and learn more about local history. Bohemia Gold Mining Museum Open. 1-4 p.m. 308 S. 10th St. Calvary Chapel Harvest Party, 3-6 p.m. Village Shopping Center. 1447 Hwy. 99 The community is invited to enjoy a chili cookoff, kids
games, prizes, a Bible lesson for kids and lots of family fun. GRRRLZ ROCK Music and Arts Festival. 4-11 p.m. Axe and Fiddle, 657 E. Main St. All day celebration of women in the arts with music, art, and community prizes. Skip Jones and Spirit of New Orleans (boogie woogie). 6-9 p.m. Coast Fork Brewing. 106 S. 6th St. NOV. 23 Cottage Grove Museum Open. 1-4 p.m. Corner Birch Avenue and H Street The Regulars (multi-genre) 1-3 p.m. Coast Fork Brewing. 106 S. 6th St. VFW Post 3473 Bingo. 2-4 p.m. 3160 Hillside Dr. Game Night (hosted by Ayla). 6:30 p.m. Axe and Fiddle. 657 E. Main St. Electric Eel (Ashland, OR jam band), 8-10 p.m. Axe and Fiddle . 657 E. Main St. NOV. 24 CG Senior Center Bingo 12:30 p.m. Community Center, 700 E. Gibbs Ave. Senior center members only. Coast Fork Brewing Garden Club. 5:30-7 p.m. 106 S. 6th St. Discover the joy of gardening with a passionate community of gardeners interested in cultivating vegetables, fruits, or flowers. Great place to learn and grow together
through engaging discussions and expert advice. All gardeners are welcome. NOV. 25 Ukulele Club (free for adults of all skill levels) 9 a.m. Cottage Grove Public Library 700 E. Gibbs Ave. Oregon Aviation Museum Open. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 2475 Jim Wright Way. Science on Tap, 5-7 p.m. Axe and Fiddle. 657 E. Main St. The Coast Fork Willamette Watershed Council monthly informational series. Format: 5-6pm Trivia, prizes and project updates | 6-7pm Free Presentation ($5 suggested donation) Topic: Short film about Gentle Forestry in Hokkaido, Japan followed by Q&A Session 10% of food and beverages purchased during event will be donated to the Council’s work. Trinity Lutheran Church Free Community Dinner. 5:156:15 p.m. Seventh & Quincy Avenue. (Take-Out Only) Trivia Night. 6-8 p.m. Coast Fork Brewing. 106 S. 6th St. (Up to 7 players on a team) Trivia, Chess and Games with Gerald. 6-8 p.m. (Up to 7 trivia players on a team) Coast Fork Brewing. 106 S. 6th St. Royal Rangers. 6:30-8 p.m. Living Faith Assembly. 467 S. 10th Ave. A Bible-based scouting-style youth program for K-12 students. Meets weekly during the school year and offers summer camps. For more information call Pastor Alex at 541.942.2612 Dementia Support Group. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Magnolia Gardens Senior Living. 1425 Daugherty Ave. Provides assistance to navigate through the dementia process with your loved one and connect you with other caregivers and spouses supporting their loved ones.
Cottage Grove & Creswell: 541-942-9635 Text: 541-954-7724
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COTTAGE GROVE SENTINEL • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2025
OBITUARIES & NEWS
Richard Edward McCarthy July 18, 1948 - November 8, 2025
Richard Edward McCarthy passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, November 8, 2025, surrounded by his wife and loved ones. He was 77 years old and had lived courageously with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis for more than three years. Born on July 18, 1948, in Sweet Home, Oregon,
McCarthy, while serving in the Navy. Linda, a Navy nurse, outranked him as an officer—a fact Richard enjoyed, especially when being saluted while driving her blue VW Bug on base in Bethesda, Maryland. The two married on July 21, 1971, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Richard was the youngest of four children of Dr. James and Errilla McCarthy. He attended school in Sweet Home and graduated in 1966. Richard pursued his undergraduate studies at Mt. Angel College, Portland State University, and Southern Oregon College before enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1969. He graduated at the top of his corpsman class in 1970 and was offered the opportunity to continue his education and serve stateside during the Vietnam War. Richard advanced his training to become a lab and dialysis technician, contributing to the first kidney transplant performed in a Naval Hospital. After four years of service, he earned his Doctorate of Chiropractic from the University of Western States in 1977. Richard first started practicing chiropractic in Coos Bay, Oregon, in 1977 and moved to Cottage Grove in 1979, where he started his own practice and cared for patients for 45 years. Deeply committed to his profession, he served on numerous committees and led as President of the Oregon State Chiropractic Licensing Board for seven years. Richard’s humility, compassion, and ethics left an indelible mark on chiropractic care in Oregon. Beyond his practice, Richard gave generously to his community—chairing the South Lane School District budget committee, supporting the local swim team booster club, and was an active member of his local church choir for many years. He loved working with his hands and could often be found early on Saturday mornings tinkering with his beloved Audi automobiles, usually alongside his brother Jim in matching coveralls. Richard met his wife, Linda Gillmore
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urgent care data across the state. Data are refreshed weekly, offering a timely
Richard cherished lifelong friendships and was known for his warmth and generosity. His grandchildren often joked that he was the “Mayor of Cottage Grove,” as he never missed an opportunity to greet friends, patients, and neighbors wherever he went. He was also known for endless “dad jokes” and finding a clever pun in every opportunity because life should never be too serious if you can’t crack a joke to make someone smile. Richard is preceded in death by his parents and siblings Anna Zollner, Jim McCarthy, and Susan DeTienne. He is survived by his wife Linda; son Richard McCarthy (Jennifer); daughter Katie McCarthy (Ben Stangland); and grandchildren Julia, Danielle, Samantha, Michael, Isabella, and Nathan. His spirit lives on in each of them and in the countless lives he touched. The family wants to extend their appreciation to Signature Hospice for their professional and compassionate care that allowed Richard to spend the last month of his life at his home, comfortable, and surrounded by those he loved, including his cat, Bentley.
Death Notices
Darby Raymond Ladd
James “Jim” Oliver Kjelde, 84, of Cottage Grove, Oregon passed away November 7, 2025. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Smith-LundMills Funeral Chapel and Crematorium.
November 27, 2007 - October 29, 2025
Kim L. Socha, 63, of Cottage Grove, Oregon passed November 12, 2025. Arrangements are in the care of Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel and Crematorium.
Darby Raymond Ladd, of Cottage Grove, Oregon, passed away on October 29, 2025. He was born on November 27, 2007, at McKenzie Willamette Hospital in Springfield, Oregon, to his loving parents, Joel and Brandi Ladd.
He is survived by his parents, Joel and Brandi Ladd; brothers, Luke Ladd, Jacob Ladd and Cody Sapp (and wife Izzy).
Darby was known for his kind and caring heart. He loved his family, friends, and football, and his big smile and warm nature touched everyone around him. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping with his family
Long Live Darby. #73Forever
Patricia Pearl Smith, 80, of Cottage Grove, Oregon passed away November 9, 2025. Arrangements are in the care of Smith-LundMills Funeral Chapel and Crematorium.
and was an anchor to both his family and his team.
Victoria Sue Douglas, 79, of Creswell Oregon, passed away on November 7th 2025. Arrangements are in the care of Sunset Hills Funeral Home, Crematorium & Cemetery
A celebration of Darby’s life was held on Saturday, November 8th at 11:00 a.m. at Living Faith Assembly in Cottage Grove, Oregon.
See all obituaries online at cgsentinel.com
Arrangements are in the care of Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel.
At this time there is no memorial service or celebration of life. The family will share additional details at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the organization of your choice; Richard’s favorites included Oregon Public Broadcasting (OPB), University of Western States College of Chiropractic, and Cottage Grove Aqua Lions Swim Club. Arrangements are in the care of Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel and Crematorium.
Tree-death pest found across northern Willamette Valley
He lived a full life, and he will be greatly missed.
OREGON DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY
picture of how environmental conditions affect health. Supporting stronger public health responses OHA and local health departments are using this information to:
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Trapping for Mediterranean oak borer • Plan for resource (MOB) this summer surges during wildfire smoke showed this new pest from and other pollution events. Europe, North Africa, and • Target public health western Asia is now presmessages to people most at ent across the northern risk from poor air quality. Willamette Valley in at least • Integrate air quality data six counties – Clackamas, into climate resilience and Marion, Multnomah, Polk, emergency preparedness Washington, and Yamhill., planning. according to the Oregon • Advance health equity Department of Forestry by identifying communities (ODF). disproportionately affected MOB is a concern because by air pollution. it has infested Oregon white OHA officials note that oaks, sometimes with fatal while the data show strong consequences. The tiny correlations between poor beetles carry fungi that can air quality and increased infect a tree with a vascular health care visits, they do wilt, which can lead to tree not establish direct cause death. and effect. Patterns may also Before now, state and fedreflect factors such as careeral officials did not know seeking behavior or reporthow extensive Mediterranean ing delays. oak borer’s presence in Next steps Oregon might be. Individual OHA will continue borers had shown up in expanding its air quality and traps here and there in the health monitoring efforts. Willamette Valley even Future updates will include before the first infested additional years of data, Oregon white oaks (Quercus new health measures (such garryana) were found in as hospitalizations and morTroutdale and Wilsonville. tality data), and expanded So, this summer they set up analysis of pollutants. traps all over the Willamette Visit the Oregon Valley and beyond to try and Environmental Public Health determine where MOB had Tracking website for downreached. loadable datasets, maps and What they found was that guidance materials. more than 500 of the tiny Be prepared before the next power outage.
Courtesy photo from the ODF
Black streaks in the wood of this Oregon white oak show where it has been infested by a fungus carried by Mediterranean oak borer. The fungus can cause a fatal wilt in oak trees. Scientists found the tiny beetle this summer in six counties in the northern Willamette Valley. borers turned up in more than 30 traps on both sides of the Willamette River from the Portland area south to Salem. Catch rates varied from a single borer at a number of traps to 160 at a trap east of Oregon City. The borers were even caught in locations where no Oregon white oak trees had been reported declining.
“The results show us that, unfortunately, Mediterranean oak borer is firmly and widely established in the northern Willamette Valley,” Oregon’s Interagency MOB Task Force Chair Cody Holthouse said. Of 944 oak trees inspected since MOB was first detected in Oregon, a total of 38 are See PEST, Page 6
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NEWS & VIEWS
COTTAGE GROVE SENTINEL • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2025
ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY
EDITORIAL CARTOON
Oregon private companies adjust plans, ‘tread carefully’ JOHN LAUSENG Sentinel Guest Column
Oregon’s private companies are adopting a cautious yet agile approach as they navigate slowing growth, workforce challenges, capital constraints and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), according to the Q4 2025 Aldrich Uncertainty Report released Nov. 10. The report is based on a survey of more than 60 leaders of private companies in the Western U.S., including 20 Oregon owners and executives representing construction, healthcare, real estate, manufacturing and professional services. It reveals a business environment defined by guarded optimism, operational adaptation and renewed focus on resilience. The report has been published by Aldrich, a leading accounting and advisory firm headquartered in Portland, Oregon that provides the Western U.S. with a full suite of integrated financial, tax, accounting, wealth, corporate retirement and business transition services. “Oregon’s business leaders are not standing still—they’re recalibrating,” Aldrich CPA, CEO, and Partner John Lauseng said. “They’re responding to economic uncertainty by making proactive changes to their supply chain, growth and employment strategies. This agility will be critical to long-term success.” Outlook is guarded, but leaders are taking action Only 20% of Oregon business leaders feel optimistic about revenue growth in the year ahead, and nearly one-third (30%) are more pessimistic than they were six months ago. Rising costs, high interest rates and persistent workforce challenges are fueling a cautious approach. Still, Oregon companies are taking decisive steps to preserve financial health and operational stability: • 45% have slowed or delayed capital investments to maintain liquidity, while 30% are considering doing this going forward • 35% have made supply chain changes, with another 45% considering them • 70% are adjusting talent strategies, from slowing hiring to reducing headcount and hours • While only 20% have passed increased costs on to customers, and additional 45% are considering doing this in the future. “We’re seeing Oregon leaders act early rather than react late,” Lauseng added. “They’re protecting core operations and adjusting their strategic plans where needed, while maintaining flexibility and looking for ways to operate more efficiently.” Leadership gaps in technology and financial insight Oregon companies acknowledge room for improvement in how they leverage data and
technology. Only 30% of leaders are confident in their team’s ability to implement the right technology, and just 10% rate their financial data utilization as excellent. “Strengthening these capabilities presents an opportunity for businesses to gain real-time insight and sharpen decision-making amid ongoing uncertainty,” Lauseng noted. Continuity is the top priority for business transitions Among Oregon business leaders planning for succession, continuity for employees and clients (55%) and finding the right buyer or successor (55%) ranked as the top focus areas. By comparison, only 40% prioritize maximizing sale value and 35% identified minimizing taxes on the sales or transfer, revealing that most Oregon leaders value legacy, relationships and cultural fit over financial return. At the same time, 75% of owners reported receiving at least one unsolicited offer to sell in the past year. This high level of interest highlights the market demand for well-run private companies, but it also raises the stakes, the report notes. “The most successful transitions often begin five to ten years in advance,” Lauseng said. “Starting early allows business owners to explore all transition options, identify the right successor and ensure continuity for employees, clients and the business.” “One Big Beautiful Bill” opens strategic planning opportunities While most Oregon leaders have a general understanding of the OBBBA, few have applied its provisions to strategic planning. The legislation includes significant tax updates, including permanent full expensing, restored Research & Development (R&D) deductions, enhanced pass-through flexibility and targeted incentives for domestic manufacturing. Lauseng stressed that early evaluation of these opportunities and thoughtful planning can turn tax code changes into a long-term competitive advantage, especially for businesses considering expansion or ownership transition. Additional trends shaping Oregon’s mid-market outlook The Q4 2025 Aldrich Uncertainty Report also revealed several broader themes: • Confidence in managing disruption is low: Only 25% of leaders feel prepared to adapt to external shocks such as tariffs or economic volatility • Financial visibility needs improvement: Just 10% rate their company’s use of financial data as excellent • Credit conditions are tightening: 45% report greater difficulty accessing outside capital compared with six months ago • Tariffs and supply chain challenges are pressuring margins: 60% say disruptions have negatively
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entinel
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5
GUEST COLUMN
Signs of Peace in Cottage Grove ANANDA REEVES Sentinel Guest Column
T
here are strong signs that Peace is coming to Cottage Grove. The law of Physics and the mathematical equation for critical mass to occur means only one half of one percent of the population is in unison on one particular topic, then a tipping point naturally occurs, and the momentum of energy creates change. This has been the pattern for humanity for thousands of years. The critical mass number for Cottage Grove is only 50 people! The critical mass tipping point for peace in Cottage Grove is happening more and more every day. The most recent (and perhaps the most measurable sign of peace coming to Cottage Grove) is the prayer vigil held just a few feet from the Peace Pole.on November 10th. The tipping
point of critical mass was far surpassed at this gathering. It was an evening of truthtelling for the townspeople. Each person holding a candle heard the unfortunate true story of how our beloved citizens were violated in our own town for no crime other than the color of their skin. This story was very sad and hard to hear. However, if we look in our hearts for the real, true story of progress to peace, it is how the people came together in unity and prayed for peace together. This heart-wrenching story changed the people’s language from the word “hoping for peace” to the word “believing in peace.” The fact that we have surpassed the tipping point in Cottage Grove is proof that peace is coming through the following actions: The Peace Tree planted in Coiner Park in 2021
impacted financial health, particularly in manufacturing and construction • Workforce adjustments under review: While 25% have already reduced hiring or hours, another 45% are considering adjustments as part of a broader workforce strategy “This year’s data shows that Oregon companies are pragmatic and resilient,” Lauseng said. “They’re balancing near-term caution with forwardlooking planning—and that’s a powerful combination in uncertain times.” About the Q4 2025 Aldrich Uncertainty Report The Q4 2025 Aldrich Uncertainty Report provides a snapshot of how private mid-market companies are
• The Peace Pole 2024, is our permanent sign for peace that silently watches over our town, saying “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in 8 languages. • Critical mass has more than tripled on September 21st in the past three years at the UN World Day of Peace that took place just a few feet from the Peace Pole. This event shared interfaith prayers and songs for peace in several languages. All generations attended. • The Peace Slogan campaign is designed to help the citizens reach “a moment of peace” as they notice the signs throughout town. This project is destined to reach critical mass with peace signs. • November 1st marks the first Share Fair event, happening all day every Saturday at 1133 E. Main Street (Behind Dirt Cheap Printers’
new location). People bring potluck lunches, a chair, and things in vehicles to share for free with our citizens. Bringing awareness to the importance of keeping our money and resources local and taking care of our people. • Some measurable milestones for peace are shown through great organizations in town that stand for peace. Building Bridges, Earth and Social Justice, The Row River Grange, Friends of Democracy, and ROP, to mention a few. So, neighbors, there are some great opportunities for change coming out of the ashes in our town. Let’s try and focus on the oneness and keep reaching critical mass together! Peace Starts Within. Ananda Reeves is a Cottage Grove resident and may be reach at eventsbyananda@gmail.com
responding to ongoing economic and legislative change. It reflects survey responses collected by GLG, a financial and global information services consulting company, in August 2025 from business owners and executives representing Oregon’s core industries. About Aldrich John Aldrich is a CPA, CEO and partner at Aldrich. For more than 50 years, Aldrich has worked with businesses, their owners, and their employees to help them achieve their professional and personal financial goals. Based in Oregon since its founding in 1973, Aldrich now serves clients across the country from our eight offices throughout the Western US.
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COTTAGE GROVE SENTINEL • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2025
Pests
From Page 4
currently infested with MOB. Another 22 thought to be infested have been removed. Forest Entomologist Christine Buhl leads the Oregon Department of Forestry’s efforts to track and evaluate MOB’s potential impact on trees in the state. She said that Oregon scientists are still trying to learn all they can about the borers and the fungus they carry. “We still have a lot of questions about MOB that
City
From Page 1
repair needs. Fleck added that the trailer is well built, and his agency has paid for a few minor repairs. During the discussion Councilors Jim Settelmeyer and Greg Ervin agreed that maintaining ownership of the trailer falls under the “Maintain a safe and thriving community” council goal. Mayor Candace Solesbee, who has served on the council since 2018, said she
ICE
From Page 1
were kneeling on top of her, putting her in handcuffs,” Agustin said. Following the incident, Avila told The Sentinel that she is a permanent resident and had her “green card” in her pocket during the ICE detainment, but that she was not asked by the federal agents for the card. The green card allows a person to live and work in the United States, though they are not U.S. citizens. “Every time we go out, and we see a semi-suspicious
we’re working to find answers to,” Buhl said. One basic question is what other tree species potentially could be affected by MOB. According to Buhl, so far in Oregon, only Oregon white oaks have shown signs of infestation. In California, other native oak species have been attacked and killed, including valley oak (Quercus lobata) and blue oak (Q. douglasii). In Europe, MOB has been reported in a large number of oak species, and even on some non-oak trees.
Buhl said researchers don’t know what percentage of Oregon white oak trees might eventually become infested, let alone if they could start infesting other trees here. “So far we haven’t seen widespread decline of Oregon white oak,” Buhl said. “In many cases, even trees near those that have been heavily infested have not shown signs of infestation or decline. This raises a question in my mind about whether MOB will prefer to infest stressed or otherwise unhealthy trees.”
Buhl points out seeing recent construction in the root zone of many of the trees infested with MOB. “This can lower trees’ ability to cope with a variety of pests and diseases,” Buhl said. She advocates for protecting the root zones of Oregon white oaks from disturbance, ideally up to twice the width of the tree’s canopy. “My hope is there might not be widespread, rapid die-off of Oregon white oaks, like there is with emerald ash borer, which is killing most ash trees across the country,” Buhl
said. She stressed that more research is needed to find out what level of resistance oaks might have to the fungus carried by MOB. Oregon white oak is an important native tree growing from British Columbia into California. Numerous species of birds, mammals, insects, and reptiles rely on the long-lived tree for food and shelter. A number of Native American people have traditionally leached out bitter tannins from the tree’s acorns, then processed their kernels into an acorn flour used in various dishes.
With funding from the USDA Forest Service, ODA hosted a multi-agency collaborative program to trap Mediterranean oak borer (MOB) in Oregon. That program, which ended in October 2025, aimed to improve the understanding of MOB distribution and pest status in the state. ODA has no more funding to continue coordinated trapping for MOB. The agency’s focus is shifting to supporting awareness, outreach, and detection through visual observations from professionals and the public.
opposed the 2020 purchase and believes the trailer is a social service, not a city responsibility. Councilor Christine Hynk said she is concerned about the city’s liability in the event of a catastrophic incident and plans to vote in favor of transferring ownership. Councilor Randell Lammerman requested more detail on staffing costs for weekly cleaning. Fleck said CS uses a professional cleaning service for its facilities and could add the trailer to
the contract at an affordable rate. The decision was tabled to a future meeting to gather additional information. IN OTHER COUNCIL BUSINESS Urban Renewal District Councilors moved the formation of an Urban Renewal District forward. City officials met last month with Lane County Commissioners and South Lane County Fire and Rescue officials—the two other taxing districts affected by the proposed Urban Renewal District—and
received no opposition. No public testimony was offered at the Nov. 10 hearing, and the council held a first reading of the ordinance. Following the second reading and adoption at the Dec. 8 meeting, the ordinance will be published, and the city’s 30-year Urban Renewal Plan will be implemented. The plan includes: Economic development and land acquisition, emergency preparedness and ADA improvements, parks, transportation and utility upgrades, development
loan program and staffing support. The district will use tax increment financing (TIF)— capturing future increases in property value to fund projects within the district boundaries without raising current tax rates. To offset future revenue loss to South Lane County Fire and Rescue, the plan includes a $2 million allocation to the fire district. The district boundaries were extended down Highway 99 to Harrison Avenue to include the fire district’s
administrative office and Harrison Avenue Park, anchoring emergency readiness and civic infrastructure improvements. Mayor’s Monster Ball Award Solesbee announced the winners of the Monster Ball awards. Best Sweet Bite: Mama T’s Fry Bread, Best Savory Bite: Grove Bar and Grill, Best Presentation: Jack Sprats, Best Seating Arrangement: Mitchell and Mitchell Real Estate.
vehicle, our hearts start racing,” Avila told the park gathering. “We consider ourselves lucky to be able to still be together as a family while others are separated and crying for the chance to see their loved ones again.” Oregon law prohibits state and local law enforcement from assisting in federal immigration enforcement without a judicial warrant. Under the 2021 Sanctuary Promise Act, agencies like the Cottage Grove Police Department are barred from using public resources to detect or detain individuals solely for immigration violations and may not grant ICE
access to non-public areas without court authorization. Shortly after the Nov. 5 incident, Cottage Grove Police Chief Cory Chase issued a statement regarding the local ICE activity stating that his department was aware of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) operation in Cottage Grove Nov. 5. “Just before 5 a.m. an agent with DHS notified onduty staff with the Cottage Grove Police Department that they were in the city for official business. No further details were provided to the Cottage Grove Police Department, and our agency
did not request any further details at the time of the notification,” Chase said the DHS did not request any information or resources from the Cottage Grove Police Department and that his agency did not participate in any DHS operations. “We continue to follow Oregon laws and our department policy regarding immigration matters,” the police
chief stated in his release, which was also published in Sentinel’s Wednesday, Nov. 12 print story about the operation and the detainment of Juanita Avila. See the story with this report at cgsentinel. com. Immigrant advocacy organization administrators, such as the Rural Organizing Project (ROP), which has its statewide training center in
downtown Cottage Grove, and the Eugene-based Lane County Immigrant Defense Network, say they remain committed to supporting and protecting the local immigrant community from future ICE enforcement. Follow developments online at cgsentinel.com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Sentinel.
ST. ANDREWS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 1301 W. Main • 541-767-9050 Rev. Lawrence Crumb “Scripture, Tradition, Reason” Worship: Sunday 10:30am All Welcome
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SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH
COTTAGE GROVE:
820 South 10th Street 541-942-5213 Pastor: James D. Boram Bible Study: Saturday, 9:15 am Worship Service: Saturday, 10:40 Mid-week Service: Wednesday, 1:00
COTTAGE GROVE FAITH CENTER
TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH
33761 Row River Rd. 541-942-4851 Lead Pastor: Kevin Pruett www.cg4.tv Full Childrenʼs Ministry available Services: 10:00am
DELIGHT VALLEY Church of Christ 33087 Saginaw Rd. East 541-942-7711 • Pastor: Bob Friend Two Services: 9am - Classic in the Chapel 10:30am - Contemporary in the Auditorium
LIVING FAITH ASSEMBLY 467 S. 10th St. • 541-942-2612 Worship Services Sundays: 9a & 11a Youth Worship Sundays: 11a (all ages welcome) Mondays: 5:30p (6th-12th grades)
OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP AND ST. PHILIP BENIZI CATHOLIC CHURCHES 1025. N. 19th St. 541-942-3420 Father John J. Boyle 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
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
You have the right to know what’s happening in your community.
Public notices – information local governments are obligated to provide citizens – are required to be published in local newspapers to provide a public record that’s accessible to everyone. Public notices keep you informed about your government. But, Oregon legislators are trying to keep public notices from appearing in local newspapers. This severely impacts government transparency and, in turn, limits the public’s right to hold them accountable for their actions. Let your state legislators know that you value being able to access notices in your newspaper and that they are worth the investment.
WALKER UNION CHURCH & CEMETERY 32904 England Rd, Creswell, OR (541) 649-1800 Pastor: Randy Wood Sunday Service at 11:00 10 a.m.AM Everyone is welcome! Follow us on our Facebook page: WalkerChurchOregon
If your congregation would like to be a part of this worship directory, contact us today!
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CGS25-186 Green Gables Mini Storage will be conducting an online lien auction for the following storage units due to non payment. Auction will be posted at Bid13.com and will begin at 12:00pm on 11/26/25 and end at 11:00am 12/4/25. All units must be cleaned out by 12:00pm 12/8/25. Minimum charge for all units will be $50.00. The following list of units will be sold to highest bidder and are all subject to current tenant paying past due amounts in full prior to end of sale on auction end date. Name Unit # Unit Size Gail Gailbreath B37 10 x 20 Kimberly Lane B64 10 x 10 Brian Voigt B94 10 x 10 Maxwell Velarde C56B 5 x 10 Daniel Hall C82 10 x 10 Andrew Cook D11 10 x 15 Gary Quimby Green Gables Mini Storage 541-942-0291-Office 541653-2850-Cell greengablesministor-
age@gmail.com GS25-187 Cottage Grove Mini Storage 1520 HWY 99 N Cottage Grove, OR 97424 Auction: November 29, 2025, Promptly @11:00 A.M. Cottage Grove Mini Storage in accordance with ORS 87.162 will offer for public auction the following units for non-payment of rent and other fees. 1. Nancy Kreamier #B-308 2. Ryan Stephens # B-052 Unless payment in full is made before time of auction @ 11:00 A.M. 1520 HWY 99 N Cottage Grove, OR 97424 Sealed bids on entire unit due in office at 11:30 A.M. “CASH ONLY”
In the Matter of the Welfare of the Children of: Kathleen Marie Eastman, Mother, Ronald Lawrence Merrick, Adjudicated Father, Tommie Fosberg, Adjudicated Father. and Michael Loren Wyman, Adjudicated Father Summons and Notice Transfer of Permanent Legal and Physical Custody Matter (CHP-117) NOTICE TO: MICHAEL WYMAN, Above-named parent(s) or legal custodian(s). A Petition to Transfer Permanent Legal and Physical Custody has been filed in the Juvenile Court. This petition asks the court to permanently transfer the parent/guardian’s legal and physical custodial rights to a relative. This is your notice that this Transfer of Permanent Legal and Physical Custody case is scheduled for a remote hearing before the Juvenile Court located at Redwood County
Courthouse, 250 S Jefferson, PO Box 130, Redwood Falls, MN 56283, on November 25, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. or as soon after as the case can be heard. Please contact court administration to get the remote hearing information. YOU ARE ORDERED to appear before the Juvenile Court at the scheduled time and date. You have a right to be represented by counsel. If you fail to appear at the hearing, the Court may still conduct the hearing and grant appropriate relief, including permanently transferring the legal and physical custodial rights of the abovenamed parent(s) or legal custodian(s) or permanent out-of-home placement of the child(ren). Dated October 29, 2025 BY: Patty Amberg Redwood County Court Administration 250 S Jefferson PO Box 130 Redwood Falls MN 56283 507-616-4800
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CGS25-185 State of Minnesota District Court County of: Redwood Judicial District: Fifth Judicial District Court File Number: 64-JV-25-52 Case Type: CHIPS - Permanency
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COTTAGE GROVE SENTINEL • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2025
What to expect when visiting Oregon state parks in 2026 OREGON PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
As this year comes to a close, Oregon State Parks is looking back on 2025 and planning for the 2026 season. This year Oregon State Parks welcomed millions of visitors, maintained nearly 1,000 miles of trails, hosted hundreds of events including mushroom hikes and star parties and finished dozens of projects from the restoration of the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse to repaving the campground at Silver Falls State Park. State parks also updated many of its fees to reflect increasing costs and decreasing Oregon State Lottery funding. Depending on the fee, the last update was anywhere from seven to 15 years ago. Staff are looking forward to welcoming visitors for the 2026 season with guided hikes, seasonal events and outdoor adventures. To help visitors enjoy the more than 250 state parks and know what to expect next year, Oregon Parks and Recreation
Department gathered the upcoming updates in one place. Winter 2025: • Green Friday (Nov. 28): Parking fees will no longer be waived at parks requiring permits on Green Friday. Beginning January 1, 2026: • First Day Hike (Jan. 1): Guided hikes at select parks. Parking fees will no longer be waived at parks requiring permits for First Day Hikes. • 12-month parking permits will increase from $30 to $60 for Oregon residents and to $75 for out-of-state residents due to the out-of-state surcharge. • 24-month parking permits will not be sold in 2026. Existing permits will be honored until they expire. • Oregon State Parks will no longer sell Oregon Pacific Coast Passports but will honor passports purchased in 2025 until they expire. • Oregon State Parks will no longer honor Jackson County parking permits. Winter/Spring 2026 • OPRD is considering updates to its Division 15 Rates and Reservation Policy.
The proposed changes would update the rules around cancellations, refunds, special access passes and rate ranges starting as soon as Feb. 2026. The proposed changes are designed to improve the long-term financial sustainability of the state park system and maximize the availability of campsites for visitors by encouraging early cancellation. Public comment is expected to run from December 1 to January 15, 2026. Final approval is required by the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission. • Additional parks will require a parking fee. The specific parks and implementation date is still being finalized. • Implement fees to use dump stations at Oregon State Parks to support the cost of that service. • State Parks Day (June 6), will continue to offer free parking for Oregon residents. Camping fees will no longer be waived on that day pending approval of the proposed Division 15 Rates and Reservation Policy updates.
Courtesy from the OPRD
OPRD is projecting at $14 million budget shortfall this biennium due to decreasing lottery revenue, increasing costs and a long-standing need for more sustainable funding. “The changes are critical to sustaining state park operations and services now and for the future. We appreciate visitors’ continued support as these necessary changes are implemented,” Oregon Parks and Recreation Director
(OPRD) Director Lisa Sumption said. OPRD is projecting at $14 million budget shortfall this biennium due to decreasing lottery revenue, increasing costs and a long-standing need for more sustainable funding. OPRD does not
receive general fund tax revenue for operations. OPRD will continue to review and update fees and operations to keep providing high-quality visitor experiences and sustain parks now and in the future.
When going on an outdoor adventure plan, prepare as weather changes OREGON DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY SERVICES
As fall settles across Oregon, the state’s Search and Rescue (SAR) teams are responding to several missions tied to mushroom foraging, hunting season, and sudden shifts in weather. The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is reminding everyone to plan ahead, be prepared, and stay aware of changing conditions when heading outdoors. “Oregon’s natural beauty draws thousands of people
outside each year, but even experienced adventurers can find themselves in trouble when the weather changes suddenly,” Oregon’s state search and rescue coordinator, Scott Lucas, said. “We want everyone to enjoy their time outdoors safely—no one expects to become lost or stranded, but preparation makes all the difference.” With colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and unpredictable weather patterns, OEM urges Oregonians and visitors to take a few simple steps before venturing out:
Plan ahead and check the forecast. Conditions can change rapidly in Oregon’s forests, mountains, and coastal areas. Research your destination and route. Know the terrain, difficulty, and available resources. Pack essential safety items, including extra food and
water, warm clothing, an emergency mylar blanket, a flashlight, map, first-aid kit, and fully charged phone or radio. Tell someone your plan— where you’re going, when you expect to return, and when to call for help if you don’t check in. Stay on marked trails and avoid venturing off route, especially when foraging or tracking game. Each year, hundreds of highly trained SAR volunteers across Oregon respond to calls for lost or injured hikers, hunters, and foragers. Many of these incidents are preventable with proper preparation and communication. “Oregon’s SAR volunteers are among the best in the nation,” Lucas said. “They’re ready to help—but the goal is for everyone to make it home safely without needing rescue.”
Be Prepared Before You Go Whether you’re heading out for a day hike, hunting trip, or foraging adventure, always carry the 10 Essentials: • Navigation (map and compass or GPS) and a whistle • Headlamp or flashlight • Plan, prepare as weather changes Sun protection • First-aid kit • Knife or multi-tool • Fire-starting materials • Shelter (such as a tarp or mylar blanket) • Extra food • Extra water • Extra clothing For more information about outdoor safety and emergency preparedness, visit www.oregon.gov/OEM and follow @OregonOEM on social media for ongoing safety updates and seasonal preparedness tips.
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