CGS617 by C.M.I.

Mayor won’t seek reelection

CINDY WEELDREYER

Cottage Grove Sentinel

Cottage Grove Mayor Candace Solesbee will not seek reelection, a decision that has surprised many in the community.

Solesbee said she plans to focus her time on major community projects already underway, including the 2027 Wall Dogs MuralFest and the 50th anniversary celebration of “Animal House.”

She said next year’s planned Aug. 26–29 combined event is the first of what will become a new annual late summer community event, the Cottage Grove Music, Arts and Community Festival, intended to showcase local artists, musicians and films made in the community. In making her announcement about not seeking reelection during the Monday, June 8 regular city council meeting, Solesbee closed her remarks by endorsing Council President Greg Ervin as her preferred successor. Ervin then announced he will run for mayor in November, saying he feels a deep sense of responsibility to continue the work ahead and hopes to help build a community “where our children want to, and can, build their own families.” He closed his remarks with a brief aside. “Well, that is it,” he said. “The cat is out of the bag and I will be on your ballot in November.”

The June 8 meeting opened with a special presentation recognizing the bystanders, the Cottage Grove Police Department dispatcher, police officers and South Lane Fire and Rescue crew who helped save the life of Chris Ellis after the 71 year old collapsed and went into cardiac arrest at Row River Nature Park on Feb. 21

Bystanders immediately began CPR and called 911. Cottage Grove police officers arrived and began rotating compressions until their AED was used to regain a pulse before EMTs arrived and took over advanced care.

JoAnna Kamppi of Eugene Springfield HEARTsafe spoke during the ceremony about the importance of bystander CPR and community readiness. A proclamation read by Cottage Grove Police Chief Cory Chase praised the responders’ quick

CINDY WEELDREYER

Cottage Grove Sentinel

It was a cool and cloudy day with sunbreaks and a couple of brief, gentle passing showers as the 125 graduates in the Cottage Grove High School Class of 2026, dressed in bright blue caps and gowns, sat together on the football field for their final shared experience.

Among them was 19 year old Matthew Buffington. The odds of him walking across the stage to accept his diploma had been stacked against him for two years, and some would say his presence there was nothing short of miraculous.

THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT FIGHT

Matthew first began experiencing pain symptoms in 2023 which were initially dismissed as growing pains or a sports injury. By April 2024 the tumor had grown so rapidly it became visible through his clothing. An MRI was finally approved, and a biopsy confirmed osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive bone cancer.

The diagnosis began a long series of treatments. Matthew underwent chemotherapy and later had his hip surgically removed due to tumor involvement.

In July 2025 he had lung surgery after evidence of metastasis.

The cancer returned twice, most recently in May 2026 with multiple fast growing tumors in both lungs.

“It was our darkest day when they told us they had no curative options left for Matthew,” he said.

The family continued to pray and search for alternatives. Within a week they were referred to a surgeon at Seattle Children’s Hospital who specializes in osteosarcoma thoracotomy. The surgeon told them he believed he could remove the largest tumors and use a treatment that could target microscopic ones. Two open chest surgeries are scheduled for later this month.

Charles said the news restored hope. “We felt hope again just one week before graduation when we found out a surgeon in Seattle was willing to do a series of complex open chest surgeries to remove as many tumors as possible,” he said.

A RETURN TO SCHOOL AND MUSIC

Matthew returned to school this year after missing long stretches of class during treatment, surgeries and recovery. The interruptions were significant enough that he completed his senior year one year later than planned, a delay his family said reflected the intensity of his medical journey rather than any lack of effort.

The family said last month the doctors at Doernbecher Children’s Hospital told them there were no curative options left after chemotherapy had failed twice. Charles Buffington said the family’s darkest day came on May 5 when they were sent home with no remaining standard of care treatments available in Oregon.

Despite the setbacks, he rejoined the CGHS music program and quickly became a standout in choir.

Choir director Devin Wright said Matthew’s talent was clear from the beginning. “Matthew is a highly skilled singer,” Wright said. “After the first week or two of school he was a standout in choir, so I approached him with the offer to join the top competitive jazz choir.”

Wright said Matthew’s perseverance influenced the entire group. “Despite missing a fair amount of class to get treatment

Cindy Weeldreyer / Cottage Grove Sentinel

Matthew Buffington shares an emotional embrace with his mother, Ness Buffington, in a quiet moment of celebration after graduation. Inset: Charles Buffington holds the diploma that marks a milestone in his son’s long, difficult journey with bone cancer, a fight that continues beyond graduation day.

and recover, he always knew his singing part well because he practiced at home,” he said.

“There were days that I knew he was in pain, but he never asked to be excused from rehearsals.

And despite the pain he was in he would stand and sing even when I offered him to sit.”

Wright said watching Matthew graduate was bittersweet. “I was really worried all year long about Matthew’s health status,” he said.

“So to see him graduate was bittersweet, knowing that his health battle will continue on.”

Matthew’s sister Rachel Charness said seeing him walk across the stage was a moment of joy for the entire family. “Seeing Matthew graduate, on his own two feet after the worst month of our life, was a bright spot and a

OSP braces for summer traffic challenges

Driver behavior key

JEREMY C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel

Law enforcement agencies in Lane County and across the state are bracing for the summer travel season.

The Cottage Grove Sentinel reached out to Oregon State Police (OSP) Lt. Logan Denney to find out what type of driver behavior troopers are seeing, and how the troopers are dealing with traffic challenges along Interstate 5 in Lane County throughout Oregon.

Cottage Grove Sentinel: As we head into the summer travel season in Oregon, what is most concerning to you and OSP troopers about driver behavior?

Lt. Logan Denney: Summer marks the start of Oregon’s annual travel season, when we welcome more visitors and see higher traffic volumes statewide. With increased travel and good weather, many people are eager to reach their destinations. Our greatest concerns relate to the Fatal 5 SOLID behaviors,

which are statistically linked to serious injury and fatal crashes: Speed, Occupant Safety, Lane Safety, Impaired Driving, and Distracted Driving.

SPEED: Please drive the speed limit and give yourself plenty of time. Check Oregon Trip Check for travel distances, congestion, and delays, especially in areas expecting heavy event or holiday traffic.

OCCUPANT SAFETY: Always wear your seatbelt and ensure children are secured in approved car seats or appropriate passenger safety devices.

LANE SAFETY: Two lane corridors see a high number of dangerous passing attempts, especially during heavy traffic. These preventable actions can contribute to fatal or serious injury crashes. Following too closely also reduces reaction time and increases crash risk.

IMPAIRED DRIVING: For festivities and holidays, plan ahead for a sober ride home. There is no excuse to drive while impaired.

Remember: If you feel different, you drive different. Fatigue or drowsiness also reduces focus. Take breaks or switch drivers if needed.

DISTRACTED DRIVING: Never drive distracted, especially with a cell phone (ORS 811 507). Hand your phone to a passenger and keep your attention on the road. Watching entertainment on in car screens or other devices while driving is also illegal (ORS 815 240).

Cottage Grove Sentinel: Are speeds along our state highways increasing and if so, why is that, and what are the higher speed ranges?

Denney: Speed limits remain the same as covered in ORS 811 111 and ORS 811 100. For speed related crash trends, we refer you to ODOT’s statewide crash data.

Speeding increases crash severity by reducing reaction time, increasing the likelihood of losing control, and high impact momentum, all of which can be deadly or cause significant property damage.

Cottage Grove Sentinel: As a driver, I have noted that often, other drivers tailgate and, in some cases, drive quite close to other vehicles at high rates of speed. Are your troopers also noticing that type of driver behavior?

Denney: Yes. Following Too Closely (ORS 811 485) is a common violation, especially among drivers who are rushing or speeding. The statute reads: Drives a motor vehicle so as to follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of the vehicles and the traffic upon, and condition of, the highway.

This is a Class B violation with a presumptive fine of $265

Cottage Grove Sentinel: Are you also seeing more road rage incidents? If so, why is that?

Denney: Aggressive driving is more common during periods of

Courtesy photo

Cottage Grove Mayor Candace Solesbee.

Luring a minor, online sexual corruption arrest

A Lane County resident is facing criminal charges after an online child luring law enforcement investigation. Lane County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) investigators received information that 37-year-old Kody Charles Eidenschink of Lowell, was communicating with a juvenile through social media, and the communication contained sexually explicit content, according to a release from the LCSO. Detectives located Eidenschink near his place of work in the 88000

The following is from the Cottage Grove Police Department’s Weekly Update.

-Officers assisted with the Mudslinger Tandem Bike Event throughout the day. Officers provided a police escort for approximately 100 tandem bicycle riders as they traveled from outside the city limits through downtown Cottage Grove and assisted with traffic control to ensure the safety of participants and motorists. Throughout the event, Officers also conducted foot patrols through Bohemia Park, interacting with community members, vendors, and event staff.

- Officers responded to and were present at the Cottage Grove High School graduation

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, JUNE 1

01:58: Suspicious vehicle, 100 block Gateway Blvd.

05:39: Suspicious condition, Sweet/R

06:45: Motor vehicle theft, 1600 block Fairview Lp.

08:27: Trespass, 100 block Taylor Pl.

09:56: Disorderly subject, 200 block S. River Rd.

12:46: Animal info, 100 block River Walk Pl.

13:48: Barking dog, 200 block N. 16th St.

14:25: Fraud, 2100 block Ash Ave.

14:29: Missing person, 1100 block Birch Ave.

14:53: Harassment, 900 block Row River Rd.

16:36: Trespass, 1700 block Bryant Ave.

16:51: Hit and run, 1000 block Hwy 99

17:01: Disorderly subject, 200 block N. 12th St.

17:05: Suspicious condition, 32000 block Goddard Ln

17:17: Trespass, 700 block Hwy 99

17:53: Suspicious condition, 700 block N. 9th St.

block of W.11th Avenue. Detectives ultimately arrested Eidenschink and served a search warrant for his personal electronic devices.

Eidenschink was lodged at the Lane County Jail for the crimes of Luring a Minor and Online Sexual

Corruption of a Child in the Second Degree. The investigation is ongoing. Investigators ask anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4150

Courtesy photo Investigators ask anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4150.

Driving over plants leads to arrest

ceremony. Officers provided a visible law enforcement presence, assisted with traffic and pedestrian safety, and helped ensure the event remained safe and orderly for graduates, families, and staff in attendance. Congratulations to the Lions and the Class of 2026 on their accomplishment!

- Calls were received into dispatch reporting a highly intoxicated male subject who was engaging in threatening and harassing behavior walking up and down the middle of the street. After interviewing multiple witnesses, the male subject was placed into custody and was transported to the Lane County Jail to be lodged on charges of Disorderly

Conduct in the Second Degree (ORS 166 025).

- Officers responded to a nearby motel regarding reports of a male

18:38: Abandoned vehicle, Pennoyer/9th

18:42: Suspicious condition, 200 block N. 10th St.

19:15: Motor vehicle crash, 33000 block Row River Rd.

20:37: Abandoned vehicle, 100 block S. 10th St.

23:08: Suspicious condition, 1600 block E. Main St.

TUESDAY, JUNE 2

08:06: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.

09:47: Illegal camping, 200 block N. 12th St.

10:12: Theft, 3200 block Row River Rd.

10:14: Theft, 400 block S. 5th St.

11:08: Suspicious condition, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.

13:03: Fraud, 1400 block Daugherty Ave.

13:35: Harassment, 300 block N. 7th St.

14:22: Dog at large, 100 block S. 10th St.

14:24: Fire, 2500 block Mosby Creek

14:52: Hit and run, 100 block Gateway Blvd.

15:12: Motor vehicle crash, 700 block N. River Rd.

15:30: Firearm purchase denial, 100 block Gateway Blvd.

18:54: Trespass, 1700 block Bryant Ave.

19:31: Disturbance, 32000 block Goddard Ln.

20:17: Criminal mischief, 700 block N. 16th St.

20:41: Found dog, 400 block E. Main St.

21:47: Barking dog, 1000 block S. 10th St.

22:56: Warrant service, 1300 block E. Main St.

screaming outside his room for at least twenty minutes. Officers contacted the male subject outside his room, who was

POLICE BLOTTER

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3

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

05:32: Alarm, 1500 block Gateway Blvd.

06:40: Alarm, 1500 block Gateway Blvd.

07:13: Illegal dumping, 200 block S. 10th St.

09:29: Trespass, 400 block S. 10th St.

09:58: Disorderly subject, 1500 block Gateway Blvd.

10:43: Suspicious subject, 900 block N. 19th St.

12:29: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.

14:21: Motor vehicle crash, Hwy 99/Row River Rd.

14:36: Theft, 1000 block N. 9th St.

15:12: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.

15:57: Death investigation, 900 block W. Main St.

16:14: Criminal mischief, 700 block N. 16th St. 16:45: Trespass, 1700 block Hwy 99

16:48: Motor vehicle crash, 9th/Gibbs 17:49: Order violation, 1000 block N. 9th St. 18:23: Trespass, 1300 block Pennoyer Ave. 20:37: Disturbance, 900 block W. Main St. 20:40: Shots fired, 1000 block S. 4th St. 22:22: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St. 22:31: Found dog, Main/K

THURSDAY, JUNE 4

00:56: Suspicious subject, 1200 block E. Main St.

01:15: Suspicious vehicle, 4th/Hayes 03:48: Disturbance, 600 block N. 9th St.

highly intoxicated, agitated and hostile towards officers. The male subject decided to enter his motel room and go to bed in lieu of being placed into custody for disorderly conduct.

- While routine patrol checks of the area of Harvey Road and North 19th Street, an officer observed a vehicle turning around in the road on Harvey Road and while doing so, hopped the curb and drove over some lavender plants. During the contact, the drivers’ eyes appeared to be blood shot and glossy, which the passenger stated was from allergies. Due to the traffic stop, dispatch ran a records check, and it was determined the driver was not allowed to have

contact with the passenger in the vehicle. Parole and Probation was contacted, and a detainer was placed on the driver, where he was then transported to the Lane County Jail to be lodged on a Probation Violation (ORS 137 595).

- Officers responded to a call regarding a subject down with a bystander performing CPR already. Upon arrival, Officers assisted South Lane Fire and Rescue and secured the scene while medical personnel took over lifesaving efforts. Medics continued CPR utilizing a LUCAS mechanical chest compression device and were ultimately able to regain a pulse. The patient was stabilized and transported to Riverbend Hospital.

06:52: Illegal camping, 100 block S. 10th St.

08:20: Suspicious subject, 100 block N. 7th St.

10:31: Disturbance, 2100 block Wilson Ave.

13:08: Dog at large, 900 block Row River Rd.

13:32: Found dog, S. River Rd/Hwy 99

13:47: Abandoned vehicle, 1700 block W. Harrison Ave.

15:34: Disorderly subject, 700 block S. 13th St. 16:54: Dog at large, 8th/Quincy 18:19: Disturbance, 700 block S. 13th St. 22:18: Suspicious condition, 900 block S. 6th St. 22:50: Disorderly subject, 700 block Hwy 99

FRIDAY, JUNE 5

01:34: Suspicious vehicle, 1500 block E. Main St. 09:37: Abandoned vehicle, Carnegie/R 11:38: Theft, 1700 block E. Main St. 17:29: Harassment, 900 block W. Main St. 19:53: Trespass, 4th/ Hayes

20:09: Death investigation, 1500 block Village Dr.

20:41: Warrant service, 200 block N. 12th St.

22:18: Warrant service, 900 block Row River Rd.

22:45: Juvenile trouble, 400 block S. 5th St.

23:05: Suicidal subject, 900 block Row River Rd.

SATURDAY, JUNE 6

00:13: Suspicious subject, 100 block Talamena Dr.

03:08: Abandoned vehicle, Harding Pl/6th

10:23: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.

17:51: Juvenile trouble, 200 block Gateway Blvd.

19:09: Harassment, 1400 block Daugherty Ave.

20:40: Disturbance, 1400 block S. River Rd.

20:58: Theft, 1500 block Village Dr.

21:05: Fire, 1200 block E. Main St.

23:27: Disorderly subject, 1300 block E. Main St.

SUNDAY, JUNE 7

06:08: Wanted subject, 1500 block Gateway Blvd.

07:09: Wanted subject, 2700 block Row River Rd.

12:38: Drug activity, 700 block E. Main St.

15:37: Trespass, 100 block N. 22nd St.

15:56: Agency assist, 200 block North K St.

16:09: Suspicious vehicle, 900 block Birch Ave.

16:20: Wanted subject, Chestnut/K

16:51: Juvenile trouble, 100 block S. 10th st.

17:14: Harassment, 700 block South R St.

17:20: Suspicious condition, 2000 block Hwy 99

18:17: Wanted subject, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.

19:59: Fire, 73000 block London Rd.

21:04: Disorderly subject, 1100 block Hwy 99

21:18: Theft, 2700 block Row River Rd. 22:55:

7 p.m. Elks Lodge, 775 N. River Rd.

• Concerts in the Park After Party. 9–9 p.m. CG Public Market. 926 E. Main St.

JUNE 18

• T.O.P.S. Club. 9:30–11 a.m. Delight Valley Church of Christ, Saginaw.

• Baby Laptime. 11:30 a.m. CG Public Library.

• Teen Gaming. 4 p.m. CG Public Library.

• Community Center Table Tennis. 4–6 p.m. Community Center, 700 E. Gibbs Ave.

• Bread Club. 5-7 p.m. CG Public Market

• Celebrate Recovery. 5:15 p.m. Calvary Chapel. 1447 Hwy 99N.

• Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours. 5:30-7 p.m. Middlefield Golf Course

• Stone Hart (rock). 6–8 p.m. CG Public Market.

• Blessed Relief (jazz/ blues) Wine Night. 6–9 p.m. Coast Fork Brewery

• “Sunday in the Park with George”. 7:30 p.m. Cottage Theatre.

• Blacksage Runners (blues/rock). 8–10 p.m. Axe and Fiddle.

JUNE 19

• Storytime. 11:30 a.m. CG Public Library.

• American Legion Bingo. 5–7 p.m. American Legion Post 32 826 W. Main St.

• Elks Lodge Community Dinner. $12 5:30–7 p.m. 755 N. River Rd.

• Saginaw Vineyard Friday Night Live. 6–9 p.m. 80247 Delight Valley School Rd.

• Creative Chaos Play. 6 p.m. WOE Fairgrounds. 2000 N. Douglas St.

• Jackson’s Pub Karaoke Night with Jesse Hart. 6:30 p.m. CG Public Market.

• Mule on Fire (bluesy Americana). 6:30–9:30 p.m. Coast Fork Brewery.

• Weekly Pool Tournament. 7 p.m.

Bohemian Tavern. $5 entry; BCA rules.

• “Sunday in the Park with George”. 7:30 p.m. Cottage Theatre.

• Nigel Wearne (blues/ Americana). 8–10 p.m. Axe and Fiddle. Cover: $15/door.

JUNE 20

• Share Fair, 9 a.m. 1133

E. Main St.

• Yoga with Heather Ralston. 9–10 a.m. CG Public Market.

• South Valley Farmers Market. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. 7th and Main Street.

• Art for Kids. 9–10 a.m. CG Public Market.

• Blackberry Food Cooperative Grand Opening. 11 a.m. CG Public Market.

• Cottage Grove Museum, 1–4 p.m. Birch Avenue and H Street.

• Cottage Bowl Open Bowling. 4–10 p.m. 740 Row River Rd.

• DJ Ujam’s Hi Fi Social (eclectic vinyl). 6–9 p.m. CG Public Market.

• Creative Chaos Play. 6 p.m. WOE Fairgrounds. 2000 N. Douglas St.

• Inner Limits (jazzy contemporary). 6:30–9:30 p.m. Coast Fork Brewery.

• AlAnon “Courage to Change.” 7 p.m. Sinclair Room. City Hall.

• “Sunday in the Park with George”. 7:30 p.m. Cottage Theatre.

• Jackrat (folk/punk). 8:30–10:30 p.m. Axe and Fiddle.

JUNE 21

• Bradly Shepherd (blues, country, rock). 1–4 p.m. Coast Fork Brewing.

JUNE

Disaster relief available for businesses, nonprofits, residents

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to Oregon businesses, nonprofits, and residents affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides, and mudslides occurring Dec. 15 – 21, 2025

The SBA issued a disaster declaration in response to a request received from Gov. Kotek on June 2

The disaster declaration covers the Oregon counties of Lane, Lincoln and Clackamas.

Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up

to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500 000 to replace or repair their primary residence. Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their verified physical damage, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements may include

insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

“Through a rural declaration, SBA provides financial assistance to help rural communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, Associate Administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We offer disaster loans to homeowners, renters, businesses, and private nonprofits affected by the disaster.”

SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small

Summer food benefits now available to many Oregon families with kids

MIA MALDONADO

Oregon Capital Chronicle

For the third year in a row, many Oregon families with school-aged children will have access to financial assistance for their summer groceries.

Oregon is one of 39 states participating in the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer program, or Summer EBT, offering families a one-time payment of $120 for each eligible child to be used on groceries during the summer. In 2025, at least 336 000 Oregon children received these benefits.

The state began rolling out the benefits on Friday, and families with children enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and those receiving benefits from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, will automatically receive an Oregon EBT card to use at grocery stores, farmers markets and convenience stores. Other automatically eligible families include those with a child attending a qualifying Head Start program, a child in foster care, in a migrant education program, experiencing homelessness or

Courtesy photo from the U.S. Department of Agriculture

The Summer EBT benefits come in the form of an Oregon EBT card to use at grocery stores, farmers markets and convenience stores.

participating in the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations. Interested in Summer RBT? How to apply

Those who didn’t automatically receive Summer EBT benefits can apply online or with a paper application available on the Oregon Department of Human Services website. New families must apply for the program by Sept. 1 Families are eligible if they have a child attending a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program, or if they meet the income requirements for free or reduced-price meals at school.

The program does not use immigration status to determine eligibility, and the benefits expire four months after they show up on an EBT card.

https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/briefs/ summer-food-benefitsnow-available-to-manyoregon-families-with-kids/ Oregon Capital Chronicle is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Lynne Terry for questions: info@oregoncapitalchronicle.com.

agricultural cooperatives, and private nonprofit organizations – including faith-based organizations – impacted by financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or private nonprofit did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll,

accounts payable, and other bills which could not be paid due to the disaster.

The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for businesses, 3 625% for nonprofits, and 2 875% for homeowners and renters with terms of up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

To apply online, visit sba. gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba. gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

Cindy Weeldreyer / Cottage Grove Sentinel Splash of color on a foggy morning overlooking Cottage Grove.

Madeleine “Muffy” Grabner

July 31, 1927 - May 6, 2026

Madeleine “Muffy” Grabner passed away peacefully on May 6, 2026, with her loving family at her side. Born on July 31, 1927, near the small town of Carlton Oregon, Muffy was the daughter of Ulysses and Louise Ward. She graduated from Lafayette High School in Lafayette, Oregon on June 1, 1945. On September 20, 1947, Muffy married Earl Grabner, her high school sweetheart, in McMinnville, Oregon.

On June 1, 1949, Earl and Muffy welcomed their first child, Judy and over the next 12 years added to their family, Earleine, Ronald, Edward and Suzanne. This family grew to 9 grandchildren, 18 great- grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren.

Muffy was a devoted wife to Earl and a loving mother to her 5 children. She enjoyed making a wonderful home for her family where they could thrive. Because Earl was a hard working logger, they moved to where the work was and in 1961, the family landed in Dorena, Oregon, a tightknit logging community, where they made many wonderful, lifelong friends. Muffy had become an expert at “setting up house” and once again tackled this new beginning with gusto. No matter where the Grabners ended up, one thing was sure—it would be home. Another constant her family could always count on were delicious home cooked meals (all made from scratch, of course)! She found great joy in cooking and took pleasure in seeing others savor her meals. There have been many memorable family gatherings of great times and good food.

Besides caring for her husband, family and home, Muffy found time to pursue her talents. She loved sewing, quilting, tole painting, artex paints, crocheting, knitting, jigsaw and crossword puzzles, canning and gardening and various other crafts. She was pleased to give many of her handmade items to family and close friends and these are treasured to this day. Muffy also loved board games and her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren have many fond memories playing games with her. She relished spending time with them and was delighted when any of her grandchildren would come to visit. Muffy always found time for family and close friends.

Other activities Muffy enjoyed were family visits to Panther Creek, near Carlton, Oregon where she and Earl and family regularly attended the annual Ward family reunion. Getting together with family was always important. Earl arranged for the annual Grabner family reunion to be held at Schwarz Park campground not far from Dorena. Everyone always had a great time reconnecting. Muffy also cherished time with her husband, family and close friends salmon fishing at the coast where they camped often and she always looked forward to opening day of fishing season on the Row River where many relatives came for an annual gathering of fishing and fun. Family camping was always a regular summertime event, sometimes at Central Oregon and one memorable trip to the Owyhee Reservoir in eastern Oregon for some amazing water skiing. Muffy loved neighborhood baseball in the field adjacent to their home at Dorena and snowball fights in the winter, where all the neighborhood

kids were welcome. Muffy enjoyed life on the Row River where she delighted in swimming with her kids and grandkids, boating and water skiing at Dorena Lake with her family and close friends, meals and card games with close neighbors and excursions to the Bohemia mountains.

Over the years, Muffy’s occupational endeavors were many. Her most recent before retiring was with the South Lane School District where she was an educational assistant and custodian at Dorena and Culp Creek schools. She loved children and they loved her. Muffy developed many wonderful friendships with her coworkers whom she respected and loved and due to her strong work ethic and positive, kind and caring attitude, she was respected by them as well.

Muffy was an active member of the Row River Community Church at Dorena where she attended for many years until relocating to Eugene after the death of her husband. She enjoyed Bible study and was also a member of the Sunshine Club at Dorena where she used her talents in baking and volunteering for fundraisers and for helping those in the community when there was a need. After leaving the wonderful community of Dorena, Muffy embraced another chapter of her life when she moved to Daneland Mobile Park in Eugene, Oregon. She made many new friends there and became a vibrant part of the community. She took part in the many activities such as water aerobics, walking on the cycling path nearby with her walking buddies, card and board game groups, concerts at a local high school, hosting monthly dinners with a women’s group, lunch or dinner with friends at a favorite restaurant and friendly chats with her neighbors. She also maintained a lovely vegetable and flower garden.

In 2016, Muffy relocated to Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living in Cottage Grove to be closer to family. Another chapter of her life began where she made many more new friends not only with the residents, but the care providers and staff as well. She delighted in the many group activities, the bus trips, the visits and walks with friends, the outdoor barbecues and picnics, guest singers and special events. She was well loved and genuinely cared for at Magnolia and she loved them sincerely. Muffy always believed that if you treat people the way you want to be treated—with kindness and genuine interest in them, you will be treated well in return.

She leaves a rich legacy of a life well-lived.

Muffy is survived by her 5 children –Judy and husband Norm Trujillo, Earleine and husband Steve Allen; Ronald and wife Nanci, Edward and wife Gail, and Suzanne and husband Keith Mellinger. Muffy’s husband Earl preceded her in death as well as her brothers Les, Bob and Max and sisters Helen, Betty and Rosie and Tim Grabner, a grandson.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, please donate to Wildlife Safari at wildlifesafari.net or P.O. Box 1600 Winston, OR 97496

There will be a memorial service held, Friday, June 26, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel and Crematorium.

Brandy Jo Johnson

May 21, 1986 - May 11, 2026

Brandy Jo Johnson nicknamed “Bhad”, 39 of Cottage Grove, Oregon was born on May 21, 1986, in Everett, Washington, and entered into rest on May 11, 2026, she will be remembered with deep love by all who knew her.

Brandy worked as a corporate merchandiser and as a storage unit manager. She enjoyed socializing with the community and valued the relationships she built and found joy in being part of the everyday lives of the people around her.

Outside of work, Brandy embraced the simple pleasures that made her happiest. She enjoyed fishing, horses, spending time at the beach watching the ocean, watching car and motorcycle racing, and being an avid Seahawks fan. Brandy’s life was not always easy. She found comfort in music which

brought her a great deal of peace and support through difficult times. She was kind, courageous, loving, strong-willed, and beautiful inside and out. She had a contagious laugh and a deep love for her son Trexton.

Though her time on earth was far too brief, Brandy’s legacy of love and courage will continue on.

Brandy is survived by her parents, Pamela and Scot Perini, Grandfather Art Claassen, her son, Trexton McClenny, her sister, Dorothy Johnson, brother, Jordon Reddeman, and sister Sarah Johnson.

She leaves behind a family who loved her dearly and will forever cherish the memories they shared with her.

Arrangements are in the care of Smith-LundMills Funeral Chapel and Crematorium.

Terri Pendleton-Anderson

November 2, 1958 - March 21, 2026

Terri Pendleton-Anderson, born November 2, 1958, in Concord, California, passed away on March 21, 2026, in Cottage Grove, Oregon, after a courageous battle with cancer.

She was born to Charles and Arlene “Stinson” Pendleton and carried throughout her life the values of kindness, generosity, and passion that those who knew her came to cherish.

Terri graduated from Cottage Grove High School in 1976, beginning a lifelong connection to the community she called home. She went on to serve six years in the Oregon Army National Guard in Salem, Oregon, demonstrating her commitment, discipline, and sense of duty. In addition to her service, she devoted much of her life to caring for her family and working with children. She served as a teacher’s aide at North Douglas Elementary and Harrison Elementary, where she especially enjoyed helping young students learn and grow.

She found great fulfillment in the role of homemaker and took pride in creating a welcoming and caring home. In her later years, she spent her time doing what she loved most. She enjoyed gardening, caretaking, and spending as much time as she could with her grandchildren, who brought her immense joy and happiness.

Terri is survived by her sons, Jerry Floyd Jr. of Cottage Grove, Oregon, and David Floyd of Salem, Oregon, as well as five grandchildren, all of whom will carry forward her memory with love and gratitude. Her family and friends will remember her for her steady presence, her loving heart, and the many ways she made life brighter for those around her. No service is planned. Terri PendletonAnderson will be remembered with affection and respect by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Arrangements are in the care of Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel.

City announces election

The City of Cottage Grove has announced the 2026 Election procedures for anyone interested in serving as a city councilor or city mayor. Three seats on the Cottage Grove City Council and the office of mayor will be on the ballot in the November 3, 2026, General Election.

The filing period opened June 3 2026. The deadline to file is August 18, 2026, for incumbents and August 25, 2026, for all other candidates.

The City of Cottage Grove has seven elected officials: the mayor and six city councilors. The mayor is elected for a two-year term, and the city councilors are elected for four-year terms. The mayor and at least half of the council positions are up for election every two years. Four of the city councilors must reside in a specific ward when they are elected. The

Cindy Weeldreyer / Cottage Grove Sentinel Cottage Grove City Hall is located at 400 E Main Street in Cottage Grove.

Annual AARP Award honors community leaders

AARP Oregon is accepting nominations for its 2026 Andrus Award for Community Service, honoring inspiring volunteers age 50 and older across the state who use their experience, talent, and skills to make a difference in their communities.

At a time when communities across Oregon are relying more than ever on volunteers, the award highlights individuals whose service creates lasting impact. The award includes a $1 000 donation to a nonprofit of the recipient’s choice—and an additional $1,000 donation designated by the nominator. Nominations are open through August 15

The Andrus Award for Community Service is named after the founder of AARP, Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus and is AARP’s most prestigious and visible state volunteer award. It recognizes individuals who share their experiences and

skills to enrich their communities in ways that reflect AARP’s purpose, vision, and commitment to volunteer service, and that inspire others to volunteer.

Last year, AARP recognized 49 outstanding individuals and couples from around the country, including AARP Oregon’s 2025 winner, Elaine Friesen-Strang.

Friesen-Strang was honored for more than a decade of transformative volunteer leadership with AARP Oregon and for advancing agefriendly, livable communities across the state. As a former State Volunteer President, she helped shape AARP Oregon’s strategic direction, launched initiatives, and mentored other volunteer leaders.

“Across Oregon, volunteers 50+ are stepping up in powerful ways to strengthen their communities,” said Bandana Shrestha. “We encourage

Oregonians to help us shine a light on these unsung heroes.”

Nominations will be evaluated by AARP Oregon based on how the volunteer’s work has improved the community, reflected AARP’s vision and mission, and inspired other volunteers. The award recipient will be announced in early fall.

Visit AARP Andrus Award for Community Service for further information about eligibility and a nomination form.

About AARP Oregon

AARP Oregon is a nonprofit and non-partisan organization dedicated to empowering people aged 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a strong presence in the state, AARP Oregon advocates for policies that improve the lives of older adults and their families. Learn more at: aarp.org/or

New state forester gets to work

BAUMHARDT

ALEX

Oregon Capital Chronicle

Oregon’s new state forester Kacey KC’s first experience with wildfire was watching flames move down the mountainside toward her childhood home in Nevada.

On a summer break from college in 1996, “literally working at the car wash,” she explained, she saw from across town a huge plume of smoke growing around her neighborhood. She called her father, who frantically explained that he’d seen the fire start a street over, and that the wind was blowing the flames straight at their house.

After racing home to help him, it also became when she learned firsthand what not to do in the event of a wildfire.

“We didn’t know at the time, I mean my dad was on the roof with the hose, putting out hotspots. I was on the deck, I was just doing what my dad told me to do,” she explained, “but it was a wind shift, really, that saved our home.”

KC has become a lot more pragmatic about fighting fire since then, but does not underestimate the power of changing winds. She is hoping to harness that energy as the Oregon Department of Forestry’s new director, taking over after her predecessors were embroiled in accusations of financial mismanagement and workplace misconduct, including creating a hostile culture toward women.

She’ll be the first woman to permanently lead the agency in its history, and comes to the job after 24 years at Nevada’s forestry and natural resource agencies, including eight years as Nevada’s first female State Forester Firewarden.

KC said she brings with her from Nevada a “zero tolerance policy for a lot of different issues, both financially and treating people poorly.” As she embarks on her third month on the job, she said she is still in learning mode and ensuring “everyone understands my expectations and that we are moving forward together in the right direction.”

KC sat down briefly with the Capital Chronicle to talk about her first couple months on the job, preparing for a long fire season likely to leave her overseeing some of the biggest blazes of her career, and negotiating desires and dollars between conservationists, the timber industry, ranchers, firefighters and local, state, federal and tribal governments.

Bigger responsibilities

In Oregon, KC is taking over an agency with almost five times as many staff as she managed in Nevada, and with a significantly larger budget.

She’s well versed in working with federal natural resource agencies — more than 80% of Nevada’s land is federally owned and managed – but will be new to overseeing a larger

state-run land and forest portfolio in Oregon, where the agency depends on logging to fund its operations.

There are about 8 5 million acres of forested land in Nevada and practically no timber industry, compared to Oregon’s more than 30 million forested acres. Although the state Forestry Department manages just 3% of that, it is the primary fire-fighting resource for 16 million acres of land across the state, including private forest and rangeland acres.

KC is one of few leaders in the Oregon Department of Forestry’s history with no background in timber, but she said she is used to managing the desires of industry and of conservation.

In her first few weeks she said she met with environmental organizations, timber operators, tribes, rural and rangeland fire protection associations, and said she meets at least twice a month with the directors of Oregon’s other natural resource agencies.

Her work in forestry started in conservation, and she spent years managing the state’s sagebrush ecosystem program meant to protect native species and return the landscape to a more fire-resistant state.

She said she sees wildlife and habitat conservation as critical to the work of a department tasked with protecting forests from drought, disease and climate change, and fighting fire.

See WORK Page 6

Oregon’s

ADAM BRONSTEIN Oregon Capital Chronicle

Every time an Oregon hunter buys a license, pays for a tag or purchases a box of ammunition, a small portion of that money goes into the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Fund. Since its inception in 1937, the sole purpose of that fund is to protect and improve habitat for wild game animals.

In Oregon, those dollars have helped purchase and maintain twenty Wildlife Management Areas — roughly 200,000 acres of public land set aside specifically for fish and wildlife. These lands were paid for by Oregonians, and they were created for one reason: to benefit wildlife.

So why are cattle grazing on more than half of them?

On areas including White River, Wenaha, Elkhorn, Phillip W. Schneider, and others, private ranchers hold grazing agreements that allow their cattle onto Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Wildlife Areas. When you ask managers why, the answer you consistently get is something called “forage conditioning” — the idea that when cattle eat the grass down in spring, it somehow grows back in a way that is more nutritious for elk and deer. Leave the grass alone, the argument goes, and it becomes “wolfy” and unpalatable. Graze it with cattle, they say, and you are actually doing ungulates a favor.

However, when you look carefully at the actual science behind this claim, the evidence is surprisingly thin — and in Oregon’s dry landscape, it doesn’t hold up at all.

The justification for forage conditioning in the Pacific Northwest rests heavily on a single study from 1975

That study reported that after cattle were reintroduced to a northeastern Oregon wildlife area, elk numbers eventually increased, and managers

concluded the cattle were improving the grass.

That study has been cited over and over again for 50 years as proof that grazing benefits wildlife. But here is the problem: the researchers changed many things at the same time that they introduced livestock to the lands — they built new water sources, put up new fences, conducted burns, and closed the area to vehicle traffic.

Forage quality was never measured with laboratory analysis, and there was no comparison site to rule out the possibility that the elk simply responded to all those other improvements. By modern scientific standards, the study proves very little about cattle and forage quality specifically and yet, it’s the basis of current management.

Since then, studies that have used more careful methods and actually measured grass nutrition in the laboratory paint a much less convincing picture. A few studies found small improvements in protein content on grazed plots. But nearly every one of those studies also found that cattle removed enormous amounts of total grass — sometimes cutting available forage in half or more.

The studies showing the biggest forage quality improvements were almost all conducted during unusually wet years, in wetter places than most of eastern Oregon. When researchers ran the same kind of experiment in a dry, semiarid landscape similar to most of Oregon’s wildlife areas, they found that spring cattle grazing did not improve the nutritional value of deer diets enough to make up for all the grass that was gone. In plain terms: Elk and deer had less to eat overall, and it was no more nutritious than before.

This makes sense once you understand how Oregon’s landscape actually works. In wetter

climates, when you graze grass down in spring, rain drives new growth back up through the summer. That fresh regrowth is more nutritious, and grazing animals benefit. But in eastern Oregon, once the spring moisture is gone, it is usually gone for the year. The grasses finish growing and go dormant for the season. When cattle eat them down in spring, save for an usually wet summer/fall, there is nothing left to drive regrowth. The whole theory depends on rainfall that Oregon’s semi-arid wildlife areas do not reliably have.

In addition, research has shown consistently that elk and deer avoid areas where cattle are present, getting pushed off their best feeding grounds and into steeper, drier, less productive terrain — exactly when they need good nutrition the most. Female elk and deer have the highest energetic demands when they are lactating to support newborn fawns and calves. A brand new study out of Oregon State University builds on this research showing cattle act as competitors, not facilitators, to elk — with elk consistently avoiding cattle across the growing season.

Oregon’s mule deer are in trouble. Populations have been falling for years across the West, and ODFW’s own biologists have acknowledged that cattle competition is likely part of the problem. Meanwhile, the management plans justifying cattle on these wildlife areas keep pointing to that same 50-year-old study, while conducting no real monitoring to check whether the supposed benefits are actually happening on the ground.

Oregonians paid for these lands and we deserve an honest answer to a simple question: are these areas being managed for elk and deer, or for cattle?

My connections are only to family and friends here

promise of hope that with God all things, including a full recovery for Matthew, is still possible,” she said. Matthew walked across the stage with the aid of his crutch to receive his diploma. He said he felt the weight of everything he had survived. “I felt relief that I had finished high school,” he said. “It is one more step toward the day of just being Matthew again.”

His mother Ness said she felt proud of his determination. “I felt so proud that my son was so brave and such a fighter in finishing his credits for graduation,” she said.

The family’s faith has been central throughout the journey. Ness said, “Our faith in the goodness and mercy of God has been the key to keeping hope alive and our family together intact at this time.”

FAITH AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT

The Buffington family attends Living Faith Assembly, where church members have supported them throughout Matthew’s illness. Ness said the prayers, meals and constant encouragement helped sustain them during the hardest seasons of treatment. The financial support was also significant, especially during the many trips back and forth to Portland for chemotherapy, surgeries and follow up care.

The youth group played a particularly meaningful role. When Matthew first lost his hair during chemotherapy, several of the teens shaved their heads in solidarity. Matthew said the group has continued to be a source of strength.

“My church youth group makes me feel normal, like nothing ever happened,” he said. “We just got back from Six Flags on our senior trip and it felt fun without having to think about any other troubles.”

LOOKING AHEAD WITH HOPE

The Buffingtons also shared memories from a

Make A Wish Foundation trip to Hawaii in April 2025, when Matthew was briefly in remission. The family spent five days on Oahu snorkeling, attending a luau and enjoying time together.

Matthew said he stayed motivated by thinking about the future he still hopes to build.

“I kept thinking about days I was looking forward to: my first car, marriage, family and going to a trade school to possibly becoming a youth and music minister or going into the field of drone engineering and design,” he said.

When asked how this experience has changed the way he thinks about his future, Matthew offered the words that have carried him through the hardest moments of his life.

“Even with all my challenges, I can do anything I put my mind to. I still have a lot of things I need to do and experience. Even when it gets hard you have to remember all the people who are fighting with you.”

“Any project that I’m doing for fire mitigation should be considering habitat,” she said.

And though she’s never been a firefighter, she said she has “been supporting firefighters for all of my career.”

KC participated for years in the National Association of State Foresters, where she recently spent three years as president, and during that time got to know Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek’s Wildfire and Military Advisor Doug Grafe, and Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple, with whom she served on the forester association’s wildfire commission.

And though on average more acres burn annually in Nevada — about a million on average, compared to Oregon’s 10-year average of 680,000 — they tend to lead to less home loss because they burn in much less densely populated areas, she said.

Creating change

high traffic and congestion. We encourage drivers to be patient, plan ahead, and understand that slower traffic is often unavoidable. If you have a vehicle hazard, move over or out of the lane of travel to avoid blocking traffic lanes and providing safe passage in the active travel lanes.

Cottage Grove Sentinel: Are there any specific locations that troopers are finding the higher speeds, and what is OSP doing to enforce the speed limits in those areas?

Denney: We encourage all motorists to obey posted speeds on interstates, highways, secondary roads, and city streets across Oregon. When traveling through a new or unfamiliar area, always check posted speed limits and drive with care.

Cottage Grove Sentinel: What is the recommendation to drivers about avoiding confrontations that could lead to road rage?

Denney: For non-emergency driving complaints, call *OSP (*677). For crimes in progress, call 911 to reach the appropriate dispatch center.

Drive with patience and awareness. Every driver is headed somewhere, and following speed limits and traffic flows accordingly helps safeguard our roadways.

If an aggressive driver is following or tailgating you, move to the far right lane, pull over, or take the next exit. If you feel unsafe, contact law enforcement.

Cottage Grove Sentinel: What are the presumptive fines for road rage, for speeding, for tailgating, and for reckless driving?

Denney: Fines can range from $100 to more than $1 000, depending on the violation and circumstances.

Relevant laws include:

• ORS 811 135 – Careless Driving

• ORS 811 100 – Violation of Basic Rule (Speed)

• ORS 811 111 –Exceeding Speed Limit

• ORS 811 485 – Following Too Closely

• ORS 811 370 – Failure to Drive Within Lane Reckless Driving (ORS 811 140) is a crime and may result in arrest, a vehicle tow, and a required court appearance.

Cottage Grove Sentinel: Would you say that a key driving defense is the need to anticipate other motorists’ actions to stay safe?

Denney: We will refer you to ODOT DMV’s Driver Handbook on safe and responsible driving.

The following is a link to the DVM Driver Handbook at: https://www.oregon.gov/ odot/forms/dmv/37.pdf

The handbook offers the following: Safe & Responsible Driving

The key to being a safe and responsible driver is to be aware of your surroundings at all times and to be alert for potentially dangerous situations.

Defensive Driving Know how to adjust your driving to allow for problems with your vehicle, the type of road surface, poor weather, heavy traffic, poor lighting, and your own physical, mental, and emotional condition.

You must be able to see what is to the front, sides, and rear of your vehicle. Do not load or equip your vehicle in any way that blocks what you can see. Placing stickers or other objects on your vehicle’s windows can limit your view of the road.

You will constantly make decisions every mile that you drive. A defensive driver is always aware of their surroundings and possible escape routes.

pay all its bills after the 2024 wildfire season.

“I don’t believe in coming into an agency and making big changes before I really have an understanding of how we operate, and so I’m spending a lot of time learning,” KC said, and acknowledged that “the increasing costs of wildfires, and being able to get that funding to be able to pay your bills on time, has been a challenge across both states.”

When it comes to paying to fight wildfires, she said she understands well the complex system of payments and reimbursements that exist between the forestry department and state, local, federal, and tribal agencies and governments and private contractors. She said her job is to balance all of that so partners have a reasonable expectation for getting paid, and to make sure lawmakers and budget writers understand, if not the full complexity she has to manage, the cost and timing needs and demands she is trying to meet.

KC said she’s currently evaluating what kinds of changes might be needed at the forestry department following the departure more than a year ago of its leader Cal Makumoto amid misconduct claims among senior leaders, and an unexpected emergency infusion of funding from the Oregon Legislature when it became clear the agency could not

From Page 5

The ODFW Commission should immediately task staff with re-evaluating their management plans and take steps to eliminate cattle from our Wildlife Management Areas to provide more opportunities for hunters and allow these lands to heal from decades of harmful livestock grazing. The best

When she took over in Nevada, she started building the agency’s first ever strategic plan that included policies around this, and around workplace conduct. She said she is spending a lot of time with the Oregon Department of Forestry’s strategic plan and thinking of ways to build on it, including when it comes to accountability for leaders and staff.

When it comes to the cultural issues that came to a

available science has evolved since 1975 and management should change accordingly.

Adam Bronstein is the Oregon director for Western Watersheds Project, a nonprofit conservation group dedicated to protecting and restoring wildlife and watersheds throughout the American West. He is an avid hunter and angler, and advocates for democratic and ecologically sound management of native fish and wildlife. https://oregoncapitalchronicle.

head at the forestry department in recent years, including complaints that leaders were hostile to women and to employees based on race and sexual-orientation, KC said they are not new issues for her and she takes them seriously. She described her strategy as being transparent about addressing complaints, discussing challenges with staff and enforcing accountability, especially among agency leadership, as well as training. The biggest changes will likely occur first in her own life. She is, for the first time since college in Montana and a two-year stint as a Peace Corps volunteer in Nepal, living away from the “little town” of Gardnerville, Nevada, where she grew up and where she saw that first wildfire 30 years ago.

“My family’s all there. I wasn’t really seeking a new career,” she said of her move to Oregon, “but I definitely saw the opportunity.” https://oregoncapitalchronicle. com/2026/06/08/oregonsnew-state-forester-gets-towork-says-zero-tolerancefor-issues-that-led-to-predecessors-ouster/ Oregon Capital Chronicle is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Lynne Terry for questions: info@ oregoncapitalchronicle.com.

com/2026/06/08/oregonswildlife-areas-managed-forlivestock/ Oregon Capital Chronicle is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Lynne Terry for questions: info@oregoncapitalchronicle.com.

19th St.

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541-942-2373

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CRESWELL:

CRESWELL PRESBYTERIAN

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75 S 4th S • 541-895-3419

Rev. Seth Wheeler

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WALKER UNION CHURCH & CEMETERY

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Pastor: Randy Wood

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Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 am

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actions, teamwork and courage during the life threatening emergency.

There was a pre-meeting rally of library supporters in front of Cottage Grove ity Hall. During public comment, nearly a dozen speakers spoke with most advocating for the council to restore funding for library paid staff, saying the current proposal leaves the library unable to maintain consistent hours or meet community demand. Friends of the Cottage Grove Library members said the library needs 2 7

full time equivalent positions to maintain current hours and ensure two staff members are present during all open hours, but the proposed budget funds only 1 7 FTE.

Multiple speakers noted that more than 1,100 signatures had been collected and pointed to strong citizen participation at Budget Committee meetings, council meetings and the May 29 town hall, saying the level of engagement showed broad community support for adequate library staffing to retain current programs.

Several speakers also urged the council to consider a compromise that would shift an additional $50 000 from the Low Income

Housing Assistance Fund to restore staffing. The Budget Committee previously transferred $75,000 from the same fund to support the community pool. Councilors did not take action Monday and did not indicate whether the staffing issue will return for further discussion. By Oregon law, the city must adopt a balanced budget by June 30. Final discussion and any changes to the Budget Committee’s recommended 2026 27 budget will be made at the June 22 council meeting. At that meeting, the council will allocate $50 000 from its transient room tax revenue to community groups that have requested money from the Community Promotions fund, earmarked for rural tourism promotion. In other business, the council voted not to approve an 8% rate increase that would continue Cottage Grove Garbage Service’s glass recycling at the curb. General Manager Tim Alverson said the Oregon Legislature approved a new, longer list of mandatory items that must be recycled and glass is optional. Alverson said the amount of glass in curbside recycling material is quite low. Glass is currently in the company’s

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PUBLIC NOTICES CGS26-121 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Michelle McLaughlin and Amy Lindseth have been appointed Personal Representatives of the Estate of Eugene Jack McLaughlin, deceased, Lane County Circuit Court Case No.

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party on the impact of the proposed action on any districts, sites, buildings, structures or objects significant in American history, archaeology, engineering or culture that are listed or determined eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and/or specific reason the proposed action may have a significant impact on the quality of the human environment. Specific information regarding the project is available by contacting EBI Consulting, Project #260067417PR, 21 B Street, Burlington, MA 01803, or at (617) 7151822. 06-17-26

CGS26-135 Notice is hereby given that Patricia Ann Brigham has been appointed and has qualified as the personal representative of the Estate of Diana Arlene Rawlin, deceased, in Lane County Circuit Court Case No. 26PB05266. All persons having claims against the estate are hereby required to present their claims, with proper vouchers, within four months after the date of publication of this notice, as stated below to the personal representative c/o Hamilton W. Budge, Jr., P.O. Box 10567, Eugene, OR 97440, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings in this estate may obtain additional information from the records of the court, the personal representative, or the attorney for the personal representative. Date of publication: June 17, 2026. Patricia Ann Brigham, Personal Representative c/o Hamilton W. Budge, Jr., Attorney at Law P.O. Box 10567, Eugene, OR 97440 06/17/26

Answers on page 8

WILL LOHRE

Cottage Grove Sentinel

The 3rd Annual Cottage Grove Classic is back, but this year the golf tournament will benefit the CGHS Wally Ciochetti Track Resurfacing Project.\

The tournament will be played on June 20 at Middlefield Golf Course in Cottage Grove and will be a four-player scramble-style tournament with a shotgun start, teeing off at 8 a.m.

kickoff, the Lions met and surpassed their goal, hitting $10,000, and chugging along towards their secondary goal of $15 000

State issues ‘gold bar’ scam warning

You may still be able to sign up, but spots are running out! If interested, visit: https://app. eventcaddy.com/events/ the-cottage-grove-classic.

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is issuing a warning to Oregon residents about the “gold bar” scam that is rapidly spreading across the nation. This scam involves fraudsters impersonating government officials who convince victims to purchase gold bars to supposedly protect their nest eggs.

The golf tournament is the second of two big fundraisers the track and field program has put on this spring, and organizers hope it will bring in money to help give grant writers share progress on the fundraising with potential donors.

This scam involves contact from someone claiming to be a government official, often associated with the U.S. Department of Treasury, who convinces the victim to convert money held in financial accounts into gold bars. The fraudster claims the victim’s financial institution isn’t safe and that physical gold is the only way to protect the assets.

The goal is to resurface the track at Cottage Grove High School, which has been around for more than 20 years. While it has served athletes valiantly during that time, the wear and tear on it is becoming apparent. The school’s goal is to raise $500 000 and complete the project by the summer of 2027

During the track and field team’s two-week Hour-AThon Fundraiser in April, the program set out to raise

$10,000 and more than doubled that amount. The fundraiser started on Apr. 2 and within 24 hours of the

Once the victim agrees to convert the funds to gold, the fraudster either appears at the victim’s front door or arranges for the victim to meet them at a nearby location to pick up the gold bars. DFR urges the public to stay alert, informed, and safe. Do

SEVEN LUNDEBERG

Cottage Grove Senti-

nel Guest Article

The police blotter relates to the public record of incidents as reported by law enforcement agencies.

University students who aren’t always enthused about walking across campus for class can take heart in new research that suggests lots of daily steps translates to improved mental health and better sleep.

All individuals arrested or charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Information printed is preliminary and subject to change.

not become the next victim of this scam.

Not only did the Cottage Grove hit that mark, but they smashed it. By the time the fundraiser closed on Apr. 12, Cottage Grove had brought in a grand total of $21 170 On the program’s website, it was reported that the Lions “have more than doubled the $14 000 that we already had for the track surface, and our grant writers will be able to take those numbers to potential donors to show that we are serious about getting this project done.”

If more headway can be made with the golf fundraiser, the dream of a new track at Cottage Grove High School will be closer to becoming a reality!

More generally, the scam goes like this: Victims are contacted through text, email, or phone call and told their financial accounts are at risk of being compromised for various reasons. The reasons given may include that the accounts were subject to a cyberattack or are being used for illegal activity and must be closed.

If you register to play in the tournament, you can expect:

Player Registration - $115 per player / $460 team

• Golf (at registration, include team members’ names for your foursome)

• Cart Included (unless otherwise noted OR no more carts available, first come, first serve)

Victims are advised to empty the account, purchase the gold bars, and then deliver the bars over to the “government official.” For those unable or unwilling to purchase the gold themselves, the fraudster will offer and even insist on making the purchase for them.

• Light breakfast (included in goodie bag)

• Goodie Bag (Sleeve of CG golf balls, branded tees & ball marker)

• Catered lunch after round; Raffle Tickets for post-round golf awards and prize drawing (more available for purchase)

If you would like to be an event sponsor, there are a

Sometimes this includes giving the “government official” remote access to the victim’s electronic devices. Victims are tricked into believing that converting their assets to gold and storing it with the government via the scammer, or “government official,” is necessary to protect their

accept positions as a driver or courier from these scammers.

variety of levels, each with different perks. They are:

Law enforcement officials said the scam has already caused millions of dollars in losses to Oregon investors and others across the country.

clubhouse during checkin, golf, and lunch Hole Sponsorship

• Gold Level Sponsorship Recognition included on track-side plaque

Platinum Sponsor$6,000 (1 Available)

• Golf for 8 (two foursomes)

assets. This is positively –and always – a scam.

• Guaranteed Golf Cart

• Light breakfast (included in goodie bag) and catered lunch

It has already caused millions of dollars in losses to Oregon investors and others across the country.

• Recognition as Title Sponsor on all event promotional materials (print and digital)

• Corporate signage on golf course and around

clubhouse

• Exclusive rights to host a corporate tent around

“It is troubling that these criminals are using fear and a false sense of urgency to pressure victims into making devastating financial decisions,” DFR Administrator TK Keen said. “Even more troubling is the reality that they are in our communities and facilitating these crimes in person.”

• Platinum Level Sponsorship Recognition included on track-side plaque (upon project completion)

Gold Sponsor - $3,500 Golf for 8 (two foursomes)

• Guaranteed Golf Cart

• Light breakfast (included in goodie bag) and catered lunch

• Recognition on all event promotional materials (print and digital)

• Hole Sponsorship

As an additional precaution, DFR emphasizes that government officials will never contact you and demand payment using gold bars. To stay safe: Be cautious of someone contacting you and claiming to be a government official. The imposter scam was the most common scam reported to the Federal Trade Commission in 2024. Government officials will never threaten you or demand that you make a payment using cryptocurrency, gift

never give you a top-secret password. Some victims are given a supposedly top-secret password and instructed to give assets to a person who provides them with the password. This is always a scam.

Silver Sponsor - $2,000

• Golf for 4 (one foursome)

• Guaranteed Golf Cart

• Light breakfast (included in goodie bag) and catered lunch

• Recognition on all event promotional materials (print and digital)

• Hole Sponsorship

• Silver Level Sponsorship Recognition included on track-side plaque

Never click on suspicious links or respond to unsolicited messages. If you receive an email or text from an unknown sender (even if the details appear accurate), do not respond, and do not click on any links or attachments found in that email. You could unknowingly download malicious software.

Bronze Sponsor - $1,000

Never give out your personal and financial information. Do not share personal and financial information

• Golf for 4 (one foursome)

employment offers. Research a company thoroughly before agreeing to become involved in any “employment” of unusual activity. DFR cautions Oregonians to remain cautious and informed. Contact local law enforcement to report this scam. You can also contact DFR to report suspected fraud, inappropriate securities business practices, or to obtain consumer information. Free investor education and fraud prevention materials are available at dfr.oregon.gov or by calling one of DFR’s consumer advocates at 888877-4894 (toll-free) or dfr. financialserviceshelp@dcbs. oregon.gov.