CGS611

Preparing now for Oregon’s wildfires

Preparing crews for the summer and fall Oregon wildfire season has been ongoing for the past several weeks.

Spirit of Bohemia Mining Days: Preserving

CINDY WEELDREYER Cottage Grove Sentinel

Cottage Grove’s unique and colorful past is a source of great pride for many locals.

City establishing mini homeless camp at 12th Street

Beginning in the 1930s, Grovers began preserving the oral histories of the aging 19th century-era settlers. In 1959, Bohemia Mining Days became an annual celebration of local history with a special emphasis on early mining endeavors.

The rugged training has been on the ground and in the air.

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 Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) South Cascade District conducted an introduction to aerial firefighting for ground firefighters with a training component in the field on Weyerhaeuser’s property near Springfield, May 29

Cottage Grove City Manager

“This training gives our boots on the ground the opportunity to meet the pilots, become familiar with working with aircraft, see what the capabilities are, and get practical experience in air-to-ground communications,” ODF Public Affairs Officer Jessica Neujahr said/ “The biggest benefit of this training is getting ground trainees a chance to work one-on-one with aircraft outside of an actual fire. In addition to meeting the pilots and training with live aircraft outside of a fire, firefighters will have a chance for feedback and questions from pilots during an after-action review.”

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.

“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.”

THE TRAINING

Two Type 3 helicopters from Weyerhaeuser were to be used for the training with approximately 20 ground trainees. The aircraft practiced bucket drops with the ground firefighters practicing communication with the pilots. At the end of the training, pilots participated with the ground firefighters in the after-action review of the events.

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.

The training is designed to demonstrate the coordination and cooperation between the ODF and it is cooperating agencies, and to get the firefighters familiar with their resources through the opportunity to practice a non-emergency response to be better prepared, according to ODF Wildland Fire Supervisor Isaak Post.

Post said battling wildfires can be physically and mentally draining and overall, very challenging.

“There are many long days, the elements, like heat, and terrain is often very steep, and with the stress, it magnitudes the situation you are in,” Post said. “That cumulative buildup of long hours, high stress, high responsibility, and being exposed to the wildfire environment is probably what contributes to the physical and mental fatigue.”

CINDY WEELDREYER

The ODF is using new technologies to help protect communities during this summer and fall wildfire season.

For The Cottage Grove Sentinel

Crews began developing the

camp site this week

The 2025 theme is “Striking Gold: A Legacy Reunited” and the dates are Thursday through Saturday, July 17-19 in Coiner Park.

An announcement in late May cancelled the 2024 festival citing a lack of funding and volunteers. Former production team members and area coordinators reunited and hurriedly organized the celebration’s 65th anniversary under a “Spirit of BMD” banner.

Last year’s strong community support to produce the beloved three-day summer celebration, on its historic third weekend of July, motivated BMD alumni to create a new year-round nonprofit organization, Spirit of Bohemia Mining Days (SBMD). The Board of Directors plans to continue producing the summertime event under a large administrative umbrella with other history-focused projects throughout the year.

Jeremy C. Ruark / Cottage Grove Sentinel ( Top) Folks lined the route to watch the Spirit of BMD 2024 parade.

Cindy Weeldreyer / Cottage Grove Sentinel (Bottom) Spirit of BMD

The new mini homeless camp will include the same restrictions as the former larger camps.

SBMD Executive Director Matthew Hewlett, known to many as the “Bohemia City Jailer”, possesses a burning passion for local history.

Executive Director Matthew Hewlett (aka The Bohemia City Jailer) says planning for the mid-July event is going very well and includes some new and returning features.

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.

The 29-year-old grew up in Cottage Grove and has multigenerational family roots in the area.

“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.”

Thanks to a generous Woodard Family Foundation capacity-building grant, Hewlett now helms a yearround community initiative focused on local history, youth leadership, senior outreach and creative storytelling.

He said he is delighted that this year SBMD brings back the popular theatre troupe, the Bohemia City Players. The thespians will present “Bohemia’s Ghostly Gamble of 1918”, a mysterious, hilarious and historical theatrical adventure.

“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

Written and directed by Brett French, the play centers on three major characters: Bernice Brown, a sharp-shooting, sharp-talking

are on the front lines battling the wildfires, one of the biggest challenges they face is the unknown.

Multigenerational artists decorate downtown sidewalks

In waning sunshine on a pleasant late spring evening, 21 kneeling artists with colored chalk in hand, busied themselves creating masterpieces on downtown sidewalks during the May 30 Art Walk.

Michele Rose, the former owner of The Crafty Mercantile and the organizer of the Historic District’s monthly Art Walk, said the participating artists in the Third Annual Chalk Fest ranged in age from eight to 65

In 1975, when Birdy Hoelzle and her sister Gail opened The Bookmine they were familiar with The Village Green. 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.

“We rely heavily on our detection cameras,” Post said, adding that the cameras are positioned at high elevated sites, such as mountain tops in the timbered areas. “They give us the ability to detect smokes (beginning wildfires) and that gets us into an area quickly after detections, so

“It was a wonderful place to work and, being new in town, it

CINDY WEELDREYER Cottage Grove Sentinel See WILDFIRES, Page 6

helped us meet many of our future bookstore customers,” Birdy said. She shared a humorous memory they made in the formal Iron Maiden Dining Room that drew laughter from the crowd.

“There was less participation this year due to the road construction project, but we had very excited artists who were thrilled with the opportunity to decorate the sidewalks with art,” Rose said. “Since I sold my store last year, I don’t have the opportunity to recruit artists in the weeks leading up to the event and that may be another reason for fewer artists this year.”

“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.”

Participants in all three Chalk Walks, Tracy Laub and her 10-yearold daughter, Bae, won the “Best

Copyright Infringement” Award this year for their depiction of scenes from the Cartoon Network’s animated TV show, Adventure Time.

Grovers gather to remember Village Green Resort

for assigned errands. Years

THROUGH THE LENS

“Best

Kris Woodard’s introductory remarks included personal memories he made through the lens of a 12-year-old who was often “in

Simpson, running on one of the resort’s paths. To the delight of those gathered, Kris’ brother, Casey Woodard,

“We love to draw so it’s a fun activity for my daughter and me,” Laub said. “It’s our favorite event all year long and we plan to continue participating as long as it happens.”

“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. “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.”

The 13 winners, in a variety of categories, received gift cards to local businesses and other art-related gifts.

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.

AWARD WINNERS BY

CATEGORY

• First Timer: Makani

• Judges Award: Hito

• People’s Award: Shelly Dax

• Best Copyright Infringement: Tracy Laub and Bae

• Funniest: Ryder

• Happiest: Wendy Shugar

• Inspiring: Oliva Stere

• Best Use of Space: Orin McCoy

• Most Engaging: Alyssa Shepherd

• Interactive: Evie and Rose Smith

“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

• Best Use of Color: Tracy Laub

• Most Original: Andrew Garcia

• Best Storytelling: Karen Thomas

90-year-old man arrested in alleged child sexual abuse case

JEREMY C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel

Following a report June

2 of alleged sexual abuse against a 9-year-old child, Lane County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) deputies have arrested a 90-year-old suspect.

The LCSO received the report from the parents of the child, according to LCSO Lt. Ryan Wells.

“Parents reported their daughter said a local resident lured her into his home, where he sexually assaulted her,” Wells said in a release.

The suspect was identified through the investigation as Melvin Durmont Wofford born in 1934. He was contacted by sheriff’s office detectives early June 3 detained and later arrested.

Wofford was lodged at the Lane County Adult Corrections Facility on

Jeremy C. Ruark / Cottage Grove Sentinel

The 90-year-old suspect was arrested June 3 following the LCSO investigation.

probably cause charges of Sex Abuse x2 and Sodomy I.

“The investigation is ongoing and there is no ongoing threat to the community.” Wells said.

Hawaii man sentenced to 41 years for abusing Oregon children

JEREMY C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel

A Captain Cook, Hawaii man has pleaded guilty and has been sentenced to federal prison for sexually abusing two Oregon children and sharing videos of the abuse online.

Benjamin Victor Houghton, 29, was sentenced June 3, to 495 months in federal prison and a lifetime term of supervised release. The sum of restitution he must pay to the victims will be determined at a later date, according to a release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office District of Oregon.

The specific location of the alleged sexual assault and the arrest had not been revealed by investigators at the time of the LCSO release.

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, MAY 26

00:00: Suspicious vehicle, 700 block N. River Rd.

05:38: Alarm, 1700 block E. Taylor Ave.

06:02: Welfare check, 700 block N. River Rd.

07:23: Motor vehicle crash, 3000 block row River Rd.

07:50: Wandering goat, 5th/Madison

08:47: Alarm, 100 block Village Dr.

10:24: Fire, 80000 block Hwy 99

11:41: Welfare check, Crestview/Whiteaker

12:55: Disturbance, 1100 block N. 16th St.

13:17: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.

14:35: Suspicious condition, Woodson Pl/9th

15:06: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.

15:41: Disturbance, 1000 block N. 11th St.

16:25: Fire, Madison/10th

16:29: Suspicious vehicle, 3200 block Row River Rd.

17:31: Welfare check, 1500 block Main St.

17:56: Disorderly subject, 3200 block Row River Rd.

18:01: Disorderly subject, Hwy 99/Riverwalk

18:44: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.

19:38: Business check, 1500 block Gateway Blvd.

20:55: Illegal parking, 1300 block E. Main St.

20:59: Disturbance, 1000 block E. Main St.

21:15: Warrant service, 1000 block E. Main St.

21:20: Missing person, 1000 block E. Main St.

23:28: Fire, 100 block Palmer Ave.

TUESDAY, MAY 27

00:46: Animal info, 1300 block Birch Ave.

01:17: Suspicious subject, 700 block E. Gibbs Ave.

02:27: Suspicious condition, 1300 block Birch Ave.

06:54: Illegal camping, 300 block S. River Rd.

07:07: Alarm, 1200 block Hwy 99

07:57: Illegal parking, 4th/Grant

08:04: Nuisance, 1700 block Bryant Ave.

08:45: Welfare check, 1100 block Birch Ave.

08:46: Suspicious subject, Gibbs/9th

09:57: Mental problem, 300 block S. 5th St.

10:56: Animal neglect, 1300 block Birch Ave.

11:03: Abandoned vehicle, 900 block S Court

11:23: Citizen assist, 9th/ Whiteaker

12:14: Welfare check, 100 block S. 10th St.

12:50: Trespass, 300 block Hwy 99

14:13: Found property, 400 block E. Main St.

15:29: Suspicious vehicle, 100 block Gateway Blvd.

16:58: Welfare check, 200 block Gateway Blvd.

17:05: Animal info, 1300 block S. 6th St.

17:27: Suspicious condition, Whiteaker/6th

17:51: Harassment, 700 block Row River Rd.

18:10: Disturbance, 1400 block W. Harrison Ave.

19:06: Suspicious condition, 1300 block Birch Ave.

19:35: Motor vehicle crash, 6th/Taylor

19:47: Welfare check, 1400 block Gateway Blvd.

20:24: Business check, 77000 block S. 6th St.

22:03: Disorderly subject, 500 block Grant Ave.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 28

00:10: Business check, 100 block Gateway Blvd.

01:16: Suspicious vehicle, 100 block S. 10th St.

01:34: Suspicious vehicle, Hwy 99/River Rd.

02:38: Business check, 900 block E. Main St.

04:49: Intoxicated subject, 1500 block Village Dr.

05:25: Disturbance, 1500 block Gateway Blvd.

08:58: Welfare check, 1200 block Main St.

09:19: Warrant service, Gateway/Row River

10:48: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.

11:16: Abandoned vehicle, 14th/Quincy

11:54: Illegal parking, 4th/Grant

12:20: Fire, 82000 block Hwy 99

12:27: Disorderly subject, 1400 block Gateway Blvd.

13:27: Suicidal subject, 1400 block Gateway Blvd.

14:51: Alarm, 100 block

Village Dr.

15:40: Disturbance, 100 block S. 7th St.

approximately 1 285 images and 135 videos of child sexual abuse material, including a video recorded in November 2022, which showed Houghton sexually abusing one of the children.

On March 7 2023, a federal grand jury in Eugene, Oregon, returned a fivecount indictment charging Houghton with using a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct and aggravated sexual abuse.

Houghton pleaded guilty today to one-count of using a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct and one-count of aggravated sexual abuse.

According to court documents, in late 2022, FBI agents received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding a video depicting child sexual abuse.

While the FBI worked to identify the children and abuser, a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agent discovered another video which showed an adult male, later identified as Houghton, sexually abusing one of the children.

Investigators learned Houghton recorded the video in August 2021, when Houghton first traveled to Oregon to sexually abuse the children and shared the video online in December 2021

During the investigation, agents learned that Houghton conducted weekly piano lessons with the children virtually from his residence in Hawaii. On several occasions, Houghton used the virtual piano lessons to persuade the children to perform sexual acts, which he recorded. Additionally, between 2021 and 2022, Houghton traveled from Hawaii to Oregon twice to sexually abuse the children and record the abuse.

On February 24 2023, FBI agents arrested Houghton and executed a search warrant on his residence. Investigators seized Houghton’s electronic devices and located

15:53: Suspicious condition, 1200 block Hwy 99 16:47: Barking dog, 300 block N. 7th St.

17:21: Welfare check, 700 block N. 16th St. 18:01: Welfare check, 6th/Whiteaker

19:44: Vicious dog, 200 block S. 3rd St.

20:55: Suspicious vehicle, Holly/LaRae

21:10: Illegal parking, 3200 block Row River Rd. 22:06: Suspicious condition, Main/8th

THURSDAY, MAY 29

01:04: Suspicious vehicle, 700 block South R St. 01:13: Suspicious vehicle, 1300 block E. Main St. 09:39: Found property, 700 block Gibbs Ave.

09:57: Abandoned vehicle, 1300 block E. Main St. 11:56: Citizen assist, 1400 block E. Madison Ave.

14:52: Juvenile problem, 100 block Crestview Ter.

15:13: Juvenile problem, 1500 block S. 4th St.

17:52: Warrant service, 1500 block Gateway Blvd.

19:49: Disorderly subject, 400 block N. 14th St.

21:10: Illegal dumping, 100 block Gateway Blvd. 21:21: Wanted subject, 32000 block Picknell St.

21:30: Suspicious condition, 1300 block S. 4th St. 21:32: Alarm, 3300 block Row River Rd.

FRIDAY, MAY 30

00:54: Alarm, 1500 block Gateway Blvd.

Together, we will continue to pursue and hold accountable those who exploit and harm the most vulnerable among us.”

The case was investigated by the FBI Portland and Honolulu Field Offices and HSI. It was prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Oregon, in coordination with the Lane County District Attorney’s Office. Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children is encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

“Preying on children is unforgivable. Today’s lengthy sentence illustrates the heinous nature of Houghton’s conduct and sends a strong message to child predators that they will be held accountable,” U.S. Attorney’s Office District of Oregon Chief of the Eugene and Medford Branches Nathan J. Lichvarcik said. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office thanks the FBI and HSI for working with us to bring this defendant to justice.”

“Investigations into the production and distribution of child sexual abuse material remains a very high priority for the FBI,” FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson said. “Houghton’s sentence for these heinous crimes will keep him from perpetrating more harm to children in our communities. We remain committed to pursuing these criminals, no matter where they may be.”

“This 41-year sentence underscores our untiring commitment in protecting children and ensuring justice for victims of these horrific crimes,” ICE Homeland Security Investigations Seattle Acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Murphy said. “This outcome was made possible through the dedicated efforts of our agents and close collaboration with our federal partners.

01:57: Suspicious vehicle, 3200 block Row River Rd.

02:16: Illegal camping, 600 block E. Washington Ave.

03:50: Barking dog, 200 block South N. St.

11:01: Found dog, 1300 block E. Main St.

11:31: Agency assist, Milepost 175

12:20: Hit and run, 6th/ Main

12:23: Suspicious condition, 2100 block E. Main St.

12:45: Business check, 1500 block E. Main St.

13:00: Theft, 900 block E. Main St.

14:53: ATL DUII, 800 block N. 11th St.

15:13: Mental subject, 400 block N. 9th St.

18:25: Warrant service, 600 block S. 5th St.

19:15: Business check, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.

20:31: Theft, 1100 block Hwy 99

20:33: Agency assist, 2700 block Row River Rd.

23:38: Trespass, 1300 block E. Main St.

SATURDAY, MAY 31

00:01: Welfare check, 400 block Fillmore Ave.

01:37: Nuisance, 1200 block Bryant Ave.

01:54: Motor vehicle theft, 800 block E. Whiteaker Ave.

03:16: Agency assist, I5 NB 175

07:52: Missing person, 300 block South 1st St.

09:59: Citizen assist, 900 block Row River Rd.

The FBI Child Exploitation Task Force (CETF) conducts sexual exploitation investigations, many of them undercover, in coordination with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. CETF is committed to locating and arresting those who prey on children as well as recovering and assisting victims of sex trafficking and child exploitation Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed, the release states.

To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

10:51: Dog at large, 1000 block S. 4th St.

11:05: Warrant service, Row River/Gateway

15:14: Suspicious vehicle, 200 block Gateway Blvd.

15:17: Business check, 1200 block E. Main St.

15:35: Sex crime, 700 block 16th St.

18:04: Warrant service, 700 block Row River Rd.

18:38: Criminal mischief, 1300 block Elm Ave.

20:57: Wanted subject, 200 block N. 12th St.

22:11: Wanted subject, 1100 block Lord Ave.

SUNDAY, JUNE 1

02:01: Disorderly subject, 500 block Grant Ave.

03:47: Welfare check, 1500 block Gateway Blvd.

11:21: Suspicious condition, 1100 block Ash Ave.

12:18: Suspicious condition, 1600 block Curry Ave.

15:23: Citizen assist, 1100 block S. 7th St.

17:49: Disturbance, 1100 block S. 8th St.

18:07: Found drugs, 900 block Row River Rd.

18:33: Theft, 100 block S. 7th St.

19:28: Illegal camping, 100 block Gateway Blvd.

20:18: Overdose, 100 block Lane St.

21:55: Welfare check, 500 block Patrick Lp.

22:17: Suspicious condition, 1300 block S. 4th St.

22:52: Warrant service, 1300 block S. 4th St.

Cottage Grove gets premiere of Nevermore

JEREMY C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel

Cottage Theatre has been selected for the Oregon premiere of Nevermore:

The Imaginary Life and Mysterious Death of Edgar Allan Poe.

The production began June 6 and runs through June 22

We checked in with Cottage Theatre Executive Director Susan Goes for insight into the play.

The Sentinel: How is it that Cottage Theater gets the Oregon premier?

Susan Goes: In this case, it’s as simple as the fact that we were the first theatre in Oregon to ask. This is a newer show, and one that was created and premiered in Canada (in 2009), so it’s just not very well known in the US. Director Kory Weimer fell in love with it several years ago and proposed it to us for three years in a row before it made its way onto our season.

We build our season from director proposals and typically have 25 or so submissions for six slots, so lots of good plays don’t get picked the first time they are proposed.

The Sentinel: We understand there is intrigue and mystery surrounding Poe. From your vantage point, why is that?

Goes: Poe’s “Murders in the Rue Morgue” is regarded

as the first modern detective story, so he is credited with creating a new genre of fiction.

His detective would later inspire Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot. He was also the first key American writer to attempt to make his living entirely from writing, which contributed to his financially difficult life and career.

Finally, there was much mystery regarding his death at the time. Four days before his death in 1849 he was discovered in an incoherent state, wearing clothes that were not his own. The circumstances that led to this unfortunate state have

never become clear. I think that the mystery surrounding his death has contributed to the posthumous intrigue surrounding Poe.

The Sentinel: When are the times/days of this production and what are the tickets costing?

Goes: The show runs 6 through Sunday, June 22 with performances Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday afternoons at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $29 for adults and $18 for youth 18 and under. Because this piece deals some mature themes, it is not recommended for young children, though teens should be fine with it.

For us, this is the rare production that does not have any new-to-us actors on stage. The seven cast members are all Cottage Theatre veterans, which is helpful as this piece is probably one of the most vocally challenging works we have ever done.

AUDITIONS

Cottage Theatre will hold auditions at 1 p.m. Saturday June 14 and at 6 p.m. Sunday June 15, for the August production, The Tempest by William Shakespeare. This play will run for three weekends, from August 8-24

Cottage Theatre is located at 700 Village Drive in Cottage Grove. For more details, call 541-942-8001

Fashion models stroll catwalk to raise money for medical equipment

CINDY WEELDREYER

Cottage Grove Sentinel

A capacity crowd gathered in Armory’s Drill Hall to enjoy a pleasant afternoon of food, fashion and fundraising.

The PeaceHealth Cottage Grove Community Medical Center Auxiliary, in partnership with the Flower Basket and Gift Boutique, recruited seven models from among auxiliary members, medical center staff and the community.

Carol Reeves provided two outfits from her fashion boutique for each runway model. Reeves said she has had many positive phone calls and emails following the Saturday afternoon event on May 31

“I felt the fashion show was a great success,” Reeves said. “All those who contacted me said they had lots of fun and enjoyed supporting such an important cause in our community.”

The sold-out event featured a luncheon catered by Sheilagh, Saginaw Vineyard sold its wines, and Bradly Shepherd’s Perfect Flavor provided music. The 250 tickets sold raised $5,000. Proceeds from the raffle baskets and silent auction items that lined one side of the room were unavailable at press time.

Jason Hawkins, the medical center’s chief administrative officer, told the crowd the Cottage Grove facility is doing well both clinically and financially.

“When one out of two hospitals in Oregon are breaking even or losing money, your local medical center is thriving in this challenging environment, Hawkins said. “This is possible because of all the

Cindy Weeldreyer / Cottage Grove Sentinel

Auxiliary Member Mary Beusse models a colorful spring outfit at the fundraising event. See more photos with this story at cgsentinel.com

partnerships we have in the community, like the one we have with the Auxiliary, and among the center’s staff.”

The purpose of the Auxiliary is to support and enhance patient care and to promote health care services in South Lane and North Douglas communities. Since its inception, in the early 1950s, the group has raised more than a quarter of a million dollars to purchase medical equipment that staff put on a wish list.

Notable items include blood pressure monitors, patient lifts, wheelchairs, defibrillators, suture lights, IV warmer, vein finder and blood draw chairs, child x-ray support, a Glidea-Scope, and five over the bed tables. The largest single donation of $35 000, in 2006, purchased a digital mammography machine to do breast cancer screening locally.

In addition to its fundraising mission, the friendly blue vest wearing Auxiliary members

staff the medical center’s front desk five days a week. Membership is open to all persons who want to fulfill its goals.

Event Organizer Joan Ferguson and her planning team invested many hours to ensure a successful event. She said in this economic unsettling time, local businesses and individuals generously donated items for the raffle baskets. The organization pledged $25,000 to purchase a bed lift this year and hope to add more from the fashion show proceeds.

Staff members of different departments shared how much the donated equipment meant to them and how much it helped.

“Most of us were almost brought to tears with their words of thanks,” Ferguson said. “We give but have never really heard how much it means to the staff. It truly showed us what a strong circle we have and how we depend on each other to keep that bond.”

PeaceHealth Cottage Grove Community Medical Center is located at 1515 Village Dr. in Cottage Grove and may be reached at 541-767-5500

Gerald “Pete” Ritter Jr.

August 10, 1931 - March 5, 2025

Gerald “Pete” Ritter Jr., a beloved family man and respected electrician, passed away on March 5, 2025, in Cottage Grove, OR, at the age of 93. Pete was born on August 10, 1931, in Buckeye, AZ to Gerald Sr. and Margaret (Wetzler) Ritter.

In 1950, Pete married his first wife, Shirley Huff, later celebrating the birth of their two children, Marv and the late Marcy. Pete found love once more with Claudia Fick, and they welcomed two wonderful children, Linda and Greg, into their lives. His heart found its final match in Theodora Heyl, to whom he was a devoted husband for 15 remarkable years. Pete’s life was enriched by stepdaughters Nancy,

Karen, and Liz; stepson Mike; 10 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his beloved sister Jean Hulett. Pete’s electrician apprenticeship at LCC led to a rewarding forty-year career, with a reputation for meticulous work and reliability. During his two years at Weyerhaeuser, his knowledge and dedication shone. In his free time, Pete enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, and baking bread.

A Celebration of Life will be held 1-4pm on June 22nd, at the Masonic Lodge in Cottage Grove. Arrangements are in the care of Smith-Lund-Mills.

Local business honored as 2025 Funeral Home of the Year

Smith Lund Mills Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, located at 123 S 7th Street in Cottage Grove, has been awarded the 2025 Funeral Home of the Year Award by the Oregon Funeral Directors Association (OFDA).

The recognition celebrates a commitment to compassionate service and professional excellence in funeral care that began over a century ago, a release states.

“This award is a reflection of the incredible dedication and service our staff brings to every family we serve,” Smith Lund Mills Funeral Chapel Owner and Manager Marc Lund said as he accepted the honor on behalf of his dedicated team. “We are deeply honored to be recognized by our peers in the funeral service profession.”

Marc’s father, Doug Lund, began working with the funeral chapel – one of Cottage Grove’s oldest continuously operating businesses – back in 1964. Marc said he recalls that 30 years ago this month, a desire to work with his father brought him back to the family business to continue its legacy and tradition of service.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

THROUGH JUNE 12

Since then, the business has expanded to include the operation of Fir Grove Cemetery and a mobile gravedigging service for other pioneer cemeteries in the area. Marc and his wife, Christina Lund, also purchased Sunset Hills Funeral Home, Crematorium and Cemetery in Eugene in 2015, extending their legacy of care and community service across Lane County.

“We’ve tried to carry on the principles and traditions

COTTAGE GROVE

HISTORIC DISTRICT

Businesses are open during the Main Street Revitalization construction. Keep shopping in Historic Downtown Cottage Grove and get stamps. Turn the stamps in at the Cottage Grove Chamber of Commerce at 836 E Main Street for a chance to win $500 in local gift cards each week until construction is finished. See more at https://www.cgchamber. com/shoplocal/ or call 541-942-2411

JUNE 11

CG Genealogical Society 50th Anniversary Celebration, Wednesday, 2-6:30 p.m. Community Center 700 E. Gibbs Ave. “Where Discoveries Happen!.” Features raffle prizes, including DNA Kits, and light refreshments. For more information: info@cggenealogy. org or www.cggenealogy. org or call 541-942-9570 Chamber Concerts in the Park. 6:30- 8 p.m. Bohemia Park Amphitheatre. Performer: Hank Shreve Band (blues.) Check out “The Market” vendors from 5:30-8 p.m.

Seed to Supper LCC Course” Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at LCC Cottage Grove Center, 1275 S. River Road. A free 6-week class offered by OSU Extension, Lane County Master Gardeners and Lane Community College to teach novice gardeners to grow nutritious food on a limited budget. Pre-registration is required, and seats are limited. To register: call 541344-5859 or email chrisha. favors@oregonstate.edu or register in person at LCC CG Center.

JUNE 12

Coast Fork Public Market “High Vibe Gathering” and Bread Club 5-7 p.m. 926 E. Main St. These weekly gatherings are an opportunity for likeminded people to connect and create in a positive atmosphere. Bring a chair and meet in the market’s back patio.

JUNE 13

Elks Lodge Friday Night Dinner 5-6:30 p.,, CG Elks

Lodge, 775 N. River Rd.

Menu: Steak (cooked to order), baked potato, green beans, salad and ice cream. Cost: $12/person.

JUNE 13

Rosie the Riveter meeting from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at: the Willamalane Adult Activity Center, 215 W C Street in Springfield. The meeting are held the second Friday of every month. For more information, contact American Rosie the Riveter Association McKenzie Chapter Dr. Yvonne Fasold at fasold@ uoregon.edu

JUNE 14

VFW 2025 Car Show 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Veterans of Foreign Wars Post, 3160 Hillside Dr. Features family fun, Antique and modern cars, rat rods, trucks, and motorcycles, Pinup Girl Pageant, vendor booths, bounce house, food truck, raffles, trophies and prizes. To enter a vehicle, call Robert at 541-8686481. Registration entry fee is $20

South Valley Farmers Market 10 a.m. -2 p.m.

Historical Downtown District at 7th and Main, Buy goods directly from local farmers, food producers and artisans. Live music featured from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

JUNE 14-15

Cottage Theatre auditions for The Tempest, 1 p.m. Saturday, 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday, at 700 Village Dr. This Shakespeare play will run for three weekends, from August 8-24. Preregistration for an audition is requested. For more info go to www.cottagetheatre. org.

JUNE 16

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) annual Veteran Benefit Expo at the Salem Armory Auditorium, 2310 17th Street NE in Salem Registration is free but is subject to approval by ODVA based on space and other considerations. To register, visit www.

we started with – taking care of our customers, and working with a kind, caring, compassionate and professional staff,” Marc said. “You have to have the right people, who have the best interests of the community at heart and who strive for excellence and professionalism.”

The honor was presented during the OFDA’s annual conference in Hood River, held in May.

surveymonkey.com/r/ orvetexpo25vendors.

JUNE 17 Trinity Lutheran Church Free Community Dinner, 5:15 p.m. -6:15 p.m. Free. Seventh and Quincy Ave. Take-Out Only.

JUNE 18

Library Summer Reading Program Kickoff

3-5 p.m. Bohemia Park Fun family-oriented activities and opportunity for readers to sign-up for the program. Help reach this year’s summer reading goal of 400 000 minutes. For more information contact 541-942-3828

JUNE 21

West District Elks

Children’s Eye Clinic Golf Tournament at the Hidden Valley Golf Course. Tee time 7:30 a.m. 18 Holes with a shotgun start. All are welcome to play. Limited to 15 teams. Sponsors and teams encouraged to participate. For more information, contact Randy Pitcher at 541-942-8755, or at 541-942-3554

NEWS & VIEWS

ODOT to receive over $80M for natural disaster recovery efforts

washouts, debris flows, and mudslides.

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is receiving to $83,215,245 for work it completed to repair roads and other critical infrastructure that were deeply damaged during natural disasters.

The federal funds from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) will be used to reimburse ODOT for its vital work that was needed to ensure communities across the state can continue to recover from years of severe weather events, according to a release from Oregon U.S. Rep. Val Hoyle, Oregon’s U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley and Sen. Ron Wyden and Rep. Suzanne Bonamici, Andrea Salinas, Maxine Dexter, and Janelle Bynum.

The federal funding for ODOT’s natural disaster recovery includes:

$30,735,975 to repair damages following the 2020 Labor Day fires. The wildfires statewide caused damage to federal-aid highways from fire, fallen trees, and falling rocks.

$23,210,956 for work that repaired damages sustained during severe winter weather in December 2022. The significant rains across Western Oregon caused flooding and landslides. One landslide threatened to block I-84, and a large portion of a hillside came down and wiped-out Highway 101

$20 000 000 for infrastructure repairs following the January 2024 ice storm. This significant winter storm covered much of Oregon in ice, causing trees and power lines to come down across roads and damage signs. The same storm dropped several inches of rain in Southern Oregon, causing flooding and landslides.

$3 164 000 to repair damages following a series of severe winter storms in December 2021. The storms brought excessive rain and high winds across the state of Oregon, lasting until January 10, 2022. Multiple large landslides occurred, temporarily limiting access to I-84, OR 138, OR 30, and several others. Culverts blew out, causing multiple roadway collapses.

$2,765,399 for work to repair damages from severe storms in February 2019. The storms caused heavy snow and ice accumulation, high winds, flooding, landslides, and erosion in the southwestern and western parts of the state, resulting in critical transportation failures, loss of power and communications capabilities, and emergency mass care needs.

$2,500,000 for repairs following a series of severe storms in December 2023 The storm system brought heavy rains, flooding, and landslides to five counties and was so severe it caused two roads to collapse— Miami Foley and Sandlake in Tillamook County. It also caused the temporary closure of State Highways 101 and 26. Other federal-aid roads were damaged by scour,

$538,915 for wildfire recovery efforts following the 2017 fire season. These fires significantly impacted transportation systems in the following counties: Coos, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Lane, Linn, Marion, and Multnomah.

$300,000 for infrastructure recovery efforts following an atmospheric river in January 2021. The severe storm brought heavy rain across Oregon, causing flooding, landslides, roads to wash out on US 30, I-84, and sinkholes on Hwy 101 and many other major highways across Oregon in early January 2021

The federal investments for Oregon come through eight awards under the U.S. Department of Transportation’s FHWA Emergency Relief Program, which helps communities hurt by natural disasters and catastrophic events by providing federal funding for them to repair damaged roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure.

“Oregon, like every state, relies on the federal government to support our response to disasters,” ODOT Director Kris Strickler said. “Having confidence in that support is critical to our ability to respond to crises at the scale they demand, repair our transportation system to keep Oregon’s economy moving, and to protect Oregonians from disasters like ice storms, wildfires and flash floods. I want to thank Senators Merkley and Wyden, the rest of Oregon’s federal delegation, and our federal partners for advocating for our state and for the safety of Oregonians.”

CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATE STATEMENTS

“These Emergency Relief grants are crucial for getting our roads and bridges repaired after wildfires and ice storms, especially as climate change continues to make both summer and winter weather events more frequent and more extreme,” Hoyle said. “Communities have been waiting for this support, and I’m glad to see the Department of Transportation respond to our delegation’s call. This funding means safer travel, faster recovery, and stronger communities. I’ll keep fighting to make sure Oregon gets the resources it needs to rebuild and prepare for the future.”

“From the deadly 2020 Labor Day fires to last year’s ice storms, Oregonians in every corner of our state have faced deadly weather events in recent years, which have taken a heavy toll on the infrastructure needed to move safely,” Merkley said.

“Supporting disaster recovery efforts should be a nonpartisan issue, and these critical federal funds will support ODOT’s work to repair and rebuild the roads and other important infrastructure that powers our communities. I will keep working to ensure Oregon has the tools needed to recover and become more

Jewish Federation of Lane County

SENTINEL GUEST COLUMN

Editor’s note: The following was released June 2 by the Jewish Federation of Lane County.

We start this week with yet another attack on American Jews in the name of “Free Palestine.”

Since October 7 2023, a group in Boulder, Co, has marched weekly to call attention to the hostages held in Gaza by Hamas. Yesterday, a man yelling “Free Palestine” and “End Zionism” attacked the marchers with incendiary devices, injuring at least eight people with burns, including a Holocaust survivor.

Some injuries were so severe; the victims were airlifted to a burn unit in Denver and are now in serious condition. This marks yet another incident in which people have attacked American Jews to

pursue their beliefs about the war in Gaza.

In April, a man set fire to the official residence of Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania. Two weeks ago, a gunman shot people at the Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. This weekend’s attack vin Boulder didn’t make it into the headlines of several major news outlets - this sort of political violence is not as shocking as it once was.

A simple definition of terrorism is the use of violence on civilians to push a political agenda, and to intimidate other civilians

into submission. For us, the American Jewish community, it’s yet another thing to worry about while obscuring what exactly we should fear most: the polarization of domestic politics, the decline of civil discourse, rising antisemitism, rising authoritarianism on the right, and political violence from vboth the left and right.

Terrorists promote fear and chaos. Let us admit our fear and anger, and inner chaos. Let us comfort each other with care as a community, as an extended family that mourns for the victims and for our own loss of a sense of security. Then, let us show

each other and the world that fear, and chaos will not drive our actions. In response to Boulder, American Jewish Committee CEO Ted Deutch said,” Condemn this incitement. Call out these dangerous lies. Demand that Hamas release the hostages. And tell your community that you will stand with us, and you will not tolerate any more violence against Jews. Full. Stop.”

The Jewish Federal of Lane County may be reached at www.jewishfedlc.org

resilient in the face of future storms while we take on the climate chaos that is intensifying these disasters.”

“The ongoing climate crisis continues to fuel more extreme weather events and wildfires every year,” Wyden said. “Reliable infrastructure is essential to ensuring that first responders and crews are able to effectively protect our

See ODOT Page 8

How often do you read something online or on social media that changes your mind about a topic you feel strongly about?

From Page 1

that we can take quick action on the smokes.”

The ODF also uses lightning detection systems to pinpoint the exact location of a lightning-caused wildfire.

“That detection helps us find the fires and gain access quickly and efficiently after the storms,’ he said.

Post is hopeful that May 29 training helps the firefighters build a sense of confidence as they prepare for the upcoming wildfire season.

“The aviation water bucket drops in real-time at this training is very valuable and it also gives us the opportunity to better coordinate work with our pilots,” Post said.

WILDFIRE FORECAST

Neujahr said the agency expects a “pretty active” wildfire season likely beginning in July.

“It will likely be pretty hot. Pretty dry,” she said. “And with that we really need to stress fire prevention with the public and make sure everybody is aware, not conducting fire hazards, and that they are checking their local fire restrictions.”

BE READY

Post is urging people who live in Oregon’s rural areas, to be prepared for the wildfire season.

“Have a plan in the event of an emergency,” Post said.

SBMD

From Page 1

detective; Opal Whiteley, a brilliant naturalist with a keen eye for mystery, and Sven Sven, a lovable, confused logger caught in a ghostly gold caper.

“This play combines local history and comedy in a

“Know where you are going to go and what you are going to take at a moment’s notice. Pay attention to the rules and regulations during the regulated closures. Watch the weather.

According to the Oregon Emergency Management Wildfire Response and Recovery website, residents and visitors should go to their county emergency management website. Follow local emergency services on social media. Have a batterypowered AM/FM emergency radio. Create community by talking to your neighbors about emergency plans. Exchange contact information and ask for help if you need it or offer help if you can provide it during an emergency.

The state site echo’s Post’s have an emergency plan recommendation.

“Identify evacuation routes from home, work or school. Establish a Family Communication Plan that designates an out-of-area contact, a family meeting place outside of the hazard area, and how you’ll contact each other if you are separated during an emergency,” the site urges. “Discuss the plan with your household, loved ones, friends and neighbors. Plan for pets and large animals such as horses and other livestock. Practice the elements of the plan so you’ll be ready when disaster strikes.”

way I believe everyone can enjoy and learn more about the people who helped in many ways to build this community,” French said. “If you like Agatha Christie and Scooby Doo, you’re in luck!”

The play’s stage manager and line producer, Rob Weaver, said, “We’re bringing this one-of-a-kind story to life for the very first time through the play. It’s not just entertainment; it’s the

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

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

BACK YARD BURING BAN

The Lane County Fire Defense Board (LCFDB), Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Eastern and Western Lane Divisions, and the Lane Regional Air Pollution Authority (LRAPA) announced the end for back yard debris burning for the season effective June 7 as a wildfire precaution step.

“Things are drying out real quick, especially in the lower elevations. There are a lot of winds in the afternoon. It is

beginning of a legacy. This tale and the others connected to it can be told through many generations.”

Four rehearsal times are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, June 7-8, June 22 and June 29 from 1-4 p.m.

The performance dates are at 4 p.m. on Friday, July 18 and Saturday, July 19

In addition to producing the annual summer festival,

ST. ANDREWS EPISCOPAL CHURCH

1301 W. Main • 541-767-9050

Rev. Lawrence Crumb

“Scripture, Tradition, Reason”

Worship: Sunday 10:30am All Welcome

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH

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

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

If your congregation would like to be a part of this worship directory, contact us today!

getting to be dangerous. So, the burn ban is just to prevent fires,” ODF Unit Forester John Flannigan in Springfield told the Sentinel.

BLACKBERRY CONCERNS

A surprising new twist in the current fire concerns are blackberries, according to Flannigan.

“What’s given us the worst trouble and has surprised a lot of people, are the blackberries. They are green on the outside but there are dead kings that can burn really hot,

other developing SBMD programs are: Bohemia City Leaders Program for high schoolers. It’s a leadership and civic engagement initiative where local teen serve as “City Leaders” of the fictional Bohemia City. They participate in historic events, receive mentorship and work hands-on in roles like logistics, storytelling, community outreach and event planning. Students develop volunteer skills and receive leadership experience that ties directly to SBMD’s heritage education efforts. Participants receive recommendations for college and/ or job applications.

Future Bohemia City Citizens Program for elementary students. This introductory heritage program engages younger kids in history-based learning through crafts, storytelling, and light civic-themed games and activities. It culminates with their participation in the festival as honorary Bohemia City citizens. It’s designed to plant the seeds of leadership and curiosity at an early age.

Senior Outreach Program builds relationships with local senior living communities. It creates opportunities to document and hear

and that’s what is causing a lot of our trouble right now,” he said.

Fire season took effect Monday, June 9, within the local ODF fire protection district. Flannigan said any burning within the protection district will require a permit.

“All the long-range indicators are that it is supposed to be warmer and drier than normal and starting in July, we are supposed to be having more active wildfire conditions than normal all the way through September, so all the

residents’ stories and memories of growing up in Cottage Grove, Bohemia Mining Days experiences and the region’s historical industries. Recognizing many of these seniors were once active festival attendees and/or volunteers, their memories are part of the organization’s living archives and programming.

The Mining Vault is an audio and video series that documents, via podcasts, local history and personal stories of people in the community. Topics range from folklore and gold discovery to modern community efforts to preserve heritage. It serves as both a storytelling tool and an educational resource.

Partnerships and Collaborations

Hewlett said, “In the past, many individuals and organizations were working in silos – separate from one another. Now, we’re actively weaving those efforts together and building community-based partnerships with other local organizations focused on historical preservation, youth and local artists and crafters.”

BMD 2025 Festival Planning

The SBMD Board of Directors and the BMD 2025 Leadership Team members are now busily planning

indicators are for a bad wildfire season,” he said. “They are forecasts, so you never know what will turn out, but there is definitely concern. We are definitely getting prepared to deal with a bad season.”

For more preparedness information and to find out what fire regulations may be in effect in your area, contact your local fire department or fire district.

the 66th Annual Bohemia Mining Days in Coiner Park. It will feature all the traditional components: live music, vendors, beer and wine garden, food court, games and contests, gold panning, kid zone, a play and the Saturday morning Grand Miners Parade. Hewlett said he is excited by all the renewed interest and energy in keeping Bohemia Mining Days alive and hopes individuals, families and business owners will catch the vision and support this new organization with a broader purpose.

“A donation to SBMD doesn’t just fund “an event” – it supports a growing network of community-driven programs that extend well beyond a single weekend in July,” Hewlett said. “I am happy to connect with any donor interested in supporting our new yearround, intergenerational organization.”

Contact Information

• Website: www.spiritofbmd.com

• Email: spiritofbmd@ gmail.com

• Phone: 541-999-9833

• Office: 1011 E Main St (across 10th Street from Bohemia Park)

$$ PAYING TOP DOLLAR $$ For sport card collections- Baseball, Basketball, Football and Pokeman. Premium pay for vintage and high end modern. Call Corey 541-838-0364, please leave a detailed message.

CGS25-132

TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE Reference is made to that certain trust deed made by Jon Haratyk, as grantor, to First American Title, as trustee, in favor of Russell D. Leach and Lori J. Leach, as beneficiaries, dated January 27, 2020, recorded February 2020, in the records of Lane County, Oregon, as Document No. 2020-005418, covering the following described real property situated in said county and state, to wit: LOTS 3 & 4, COOK’S INDUSTRIAL PARK, AS PLATTED AND RECORDED IN FILE 73, SLIDE 195, LANE COUNTY OREGON PLAT RECORDS, IN LANE COUNTY, OREGON. Both the beneficiaries and the successor trustee, Cassie K. Jones (appointed Successor Trustee in a recording filed in Lane County Deeds and Records as Document No. 2025-008976 on March 31, 2025) have elected to sell the real property to satisfy the obligations secured by said trust deed and a notice of default has been recorded pursuant to Oregon Revised Statutes 86. 752(3) (recorded on March 31, 2025 in Lane County Deeds and Records as Document

No. 2025-009016). There is a default by the grantor, performance of which is secured by the trust deed, with respect to provisions therein which authorize sale in the event of such default. The default for which the foreclosure is made is grantor’s failure to pay when due the following sums: 1. Unpaid Principal; $1,395,000.00 2. Accrued and unpaid interest through and including March 28, 2025 (and continuing at the rate of 7% or $267.53/ day): $ 84,861.82 3. Attorney Fees through March 28, 2025 $ 2,889.00 4. Trustee’s Sale Guarantee Report: $ 2,728.00 5. Insurance premiums paid: $ 28,284.74 6. Subtotal: $ 1,513,763.56 Because interest, late charges, insurance premiums, property tax payments, title and recording fees, attorney fees, and costs continue to accrue, the amount due on the day you pay may be greater. It will be necessary for you to contact the trustee before the time you tender the payoff amount so that you may be advised of the exact amount you will be required to pay. Nothing in this notice shall be construed as a waiver of any fees owing. to the beneficiary

under the trust deed pursuant to the terms of the obligation which it secures. WHEREFORE, notice is hereby given that the undersigned trustee will on Monday, August 18, 2025, at the hour of 10:00 a.m., in accord with the standard of time established by ORS 187.110, at Lane County Courthouse, 125 E 8th Avenue, Eugene, OR 97401, in the City of Eugene, County of Lane, State of Oregon, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash the interest in the real property described above which the grantor had the power to convey at the time of the execution by grantor of the trust deed together with any interest which the grantor or grantor’s successors in interest acquired after the execution of the trust deed, to satisfy the foregoing obligations thereby secured and the costs and expenses of the sale, including a reasonable charge by the trustee. Notice is further given that any person named in ORS 86. 764 has the right, at any time prior to five days before the date last set for the sale, to have this foreclosure proceeding dismissed and the trust deed reinstated by

payment to the beneficiary of the entire amount then due ( other than such portion of the principal as would not then be due had no default occurred) and by curing any other default complained of herein that is capable of being cured by tendering the performance required under the obligation or trust deed, and in addition to paying those sums or tendering the performance necessary to cure the default, by paying all costs and expenses actually incurred in enforcing the obligation and trust deed, together with trustee and attorney fees. Pursuant to Oregon law, this sale will not be deemed final until the Trustee’s Deed has been issued by the Successor Trustee. If any irregularities are discovered within 10 days of the date of this sale, the trustee will rescind the sale, return the purchaser’s money and take further action as necessary. If the sale is set aside for any reason, including if the trustee is unable to convey title, the purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the monies paid to the trustee. This shall be the purchaser’s sole and exclusive remedy.

The purchaser shall have no further recourse against the trustee, the beneficiary, or their agents. Without limiting the trustee’s disclaimer of representations or warranties, Oregon

Cottage Grove summer camps, youth activities

STAFF REPORT

Cottage grove Sentinel

Looking for fun opportunities for kids this summer?

The Sentinel has found a variety of fun and educational activities to keep local kids busy all summer.

JUN–JUL: Rogers ATA Summer Camps, Mon-Thu, 9

a.m. - 3 p.m. 802 E. Main St. Phone: 541-942-0215

Cottage Grove’s local martial arts training center offers kids 7-12 three summer day camps. Kids bring their own lunch. Options include single days, weeks, or all four weeks. Fee: $250/week | $60/ day

JUN–AUG: Cottage Theatre 2025 Youth Summer Camps Registration opened May 1 online. Camp sizes are limited to ensure a quality experience. Three different camps are offered. For more

information visit: www.cottagetheatre.org or call the Box Office at 541-942-8001

JUN-AUG: Wandering Wolves Summer Nature Camps Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.3:30 p.m. (aftercare available) Dates: June 16-August 14

Register at WanderingWoves. org For Ages 4-12, Cost: $225, Locations: Hazelwood Rd, London Road and Center for Rural Living. Captivating stories and epic role-playing spark curiosity and connection to the natural world. Campers play and learn key skills in nature study, wilderness survival and crafts, homesteading, and the arts.

JUN-AUG: Grove Christian Camp in Dorena For more info about costs and activities: www.grovechristiancamp.org

JUN-AUG: CG Public Library Summer Activities,

700 E. Gibbs Ave. Info: 541942-3828 |cottagegroveor.gov/ library

JUN-AUG: South Valley Athletics Summer Field Trips, Every Friday (except 7/4) Inexpensive outings for K-12 youth (K-1st must be accompanied by an adult). Limit of 25 kids per trip. For details call 541-942-3079

JUL-AUG: Singing Creek

Educational Center:

For more info about ages, fees and camp details visit www.singingcreekcenter.org

JUN 23-27: Calvary Chapel Vacation Bible School, M-F, 6-8:30 p.m. Village Shopping Center, 1447 N Pacific Hwy.

JULY 7-11: Storybook

Theatre Mini Camp: Robin Hood, Mon-Fri, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (Location TBA) For more info: www.storybooktheatreofcg.org

JUL 7-11: Good News Day Camp: Mon-Fri, 8:30

Creating Smiles That Last A Lifetime!

a.m. -4:15 p.m. Cottage Grove Bible Church, 1200 E. Quincy Ave. Fee: $25/child pre-registered prior to June 22 and $35/child after June 23 Register Online: www.cefdaycamp.com

JULY 7-11: Storybook

Theatre Mini Camp: Robin Hood, Mon-Fri, 10 a.m. -2 p.m. (Location TBA) Tuition: $150 (scholarships available). For more info: www.storybooktheatreofcg.org

JULY 21-AUG 17: Storybook Theatre Main Stage Camp, M-F 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (Location TBA). Tuition: $450 (scholarships available) For ages 11-18. More Info: www.storybooktheatreofcg.org

JULY 21-25: Living Faith

Assembly Vacation Bible School, M-F, 6-8 p.m. 467 South 10th St. For more info or register: Send email to dgallagher@livingfaithag.com or call 541-942-2612

Veterans help to celebrate Walmart re-grand opening event

Community leaders and customers joined Walmart managers and associates to celebrate the re-opening of a new and improved superstore at 901 Row River Road. This second remodel of the 29-year-old store begins a new chapter in its history and improves the shopping experience for customers, according to Walmart officials.

The May 23 event, presided over by Store Manager Denton Bell, featured a flag raising by local veterans, the singing of the national anthem, presenting checks to local nonprofit organizations, unveiling a community mural, and a ribbon cutting. For families, there were inflatables, face painting, and refreshments for all.

Demonstrating its commitment to the communities it serves, the store team presented $9,000 in grants to the following nonprofit organizations: Cottage Grove Police Department’s Shop with a Cop event ($5,000), South Lane Mental Health ($1,000), Vital Villages’ work with single parents and their children ($1,000), Veterans Aid Network ($650), Welcome Home Animal Sanctuary ($500), Blue Barn Farm and Sanctuary ($500) and the International Literacy Association ($350).

The store upgrades and new features unveiled at the event included: a locally themed entry mural, expanded grocery sections with larger assortment of items, an expanded pet

department with more fresh food options, updated pharmacy and vision center featuring luxury brand eyeware and new private health service room. There is an updated infant section with a wider selection of food options and a new mother’s room.

The store’s refreshed interior includes new signage for easier navigation in the store and a reconfigured store layout. Online pickup and delivery services was

“Reliable roads are essential for safety, connections, and the economy,” Bonamici said. “This much-needed funding will make a significant difference in repairing important routes people use that were damaged by severe weather.

“Wildfires, winter storms, and flash floods are becoming increasingly dangerous – and costly – for our communities,” Salinas said. “My Oregon colleagues and I have been working hard to secure the resources that our state needs to recover and rebuild from these disasters, including funding to repair damaged roads and highways. I’m glad that our efforts are paying off, and I look forward to seeing these dollars put to good use to improve the safety of all Oregonians.”

expanded to improve efficiency and speed.

“Nearly every department was upgraded in one way or another,” Bell said. “We couldn’t be more excited to welcome the community back to see the improvements. A big thank you to our associates and our customers for their patience as we’ve gone through this major remodel.”

“Strong infrastructure is essential to keeping Oregonians connected,” Dexter said. “This funding will help us rebuild roads and bridges damaged by the natural disasters that have become far too common. Every community deserves a transportation system that’s safe, resilient, and reliable— for our families and our economy.”

“As wildfire seasons get worse and climate disasters happen more often, our communities and our constituents will need our help,” Bynum said. “We have to deliver the resources and support they need as soon as possible. This funding is critical in helping us rebuild the roads and infrastructure that Oregonians rely on for work, school, emergency services, and more.”