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The Cottage Grove entinel

Christmas Season in Cottage Grove

JEREMY C. RUARK

Cottage Grove Sentinel

The spirit of Christmas can be seen all over Cottage Grove.

The Cottage Grove Police Department (CGPD) conducted its annual Shop with a Cop Dec. 7.

CGPD Administrative Assistant Brooke Crow said each Christmas holiday the CGPD partners with the South Lane School District in selecting families that could benefit from the shopping experience. Crow applied for and received a $3,500 grant from Walmart to fund the effort.

JEREMY C. RUARK

Cottage Grove Sentinel

Public works crews

12th

Cottage Grove. Cottage Grove City Manager

“The school district gave us a list of three to five children, and I called their families to see if they wanted to participate,” she said. “They fill out paperwork listing items that the children can purchase as gifts for family members. Ahead of time, the chief, myself, Detective Gordon, and a couple of other department members, went shopping for the children, so they will have gifts as a surprise Christmas morning.”

went right to it.”

CGPD Officer Derek Carlton joined Officer Monahan helping Hunter select the gifts.

“It’s just cool to see the kids excitement and this event builds a good bond with them,” Carlton said.

CGPD Chief Cory Chase the event provides an important connection for his department staff to engage with the community.

The mental health impact facing Oregon’s wildland firefighters

“It is our way to give back, Chase said. “Walmart supports us with their funding and allows us to do this is their store. It is really important for us to build relationships and give the community a chance to interact with the police department and for them to see that our job ius much more than law enforcement. It’s building relationships and partnering with the community.”

JEREMY C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

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

police officers was challenging.

Crow said the Shop with a Cop event is heart-warming.

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

The selected children and their families gathered inside the Cottage Grove Walmart for the Saturday morning event.

“To watch the joy in the child’s eyes and to see the smiles on their faces,” she said. “They love shopping with the officers.”

Eight-year-old Hunter Heine was escorted into the store by his great grandmother, Betty Heine.

WHO WE ARE

Cindy Weeldreyer / Cottage Grove Sentinel

Poetry Peddler Charles Mattoon was on duty to write original poems during the South Valley Farmers Winter Market at the Cottage Grove Armory Dec. 7.

“This is very exciting,” she said. “Hunter had said he was a little nervous about participating but I told him he didn’t need to be nervous, and it was going to be fine.”

Hunter said finding just the right gifts during his journey down the Walmart isles with the two

“It was very hard,” he said. “But the coolest thing I found is the blanket, because it’s very soft.”

“This is great. It was a lot of fun,” CGPD Officer Luke Monahan said. “Hunter was very good. He knew what he was after and

Earlier Saturday morning, the South Lane County Fire & Rescue opened its East Harrison Avenue Station Bay in Cottage Grove to provide a free community breakfast and visit with Santa for the 12th year of the holiday event.

Oregon’s wildfire season is expected to continue through this month, but the mental scares and impact of the season on the firefighters who battle blazes in Lane County and across the state, and their families, may last a lifetime, according to Jeff Dill, the founder of Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance (FBHA).

“It is a way for us to give

Dill established the FBHA in 2010 following Hurricane Katrina. He was than a Battalion Chief for a fire department in northwest Chicago.

City manager, municipal judge get high marks in annual evaluations

“I saw our brothers and sisters struggle from the devastation that they saw, so I went back and got my degree and became a licensed counselor,” he said. “We started

CINDY WEELDREYER

Cottage Grove Sentinel

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.

“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

After an hour behind closed doors in an executive session, Cottage Grove City Councilors returned to the council chamber for their regular meeting and announced City Manager Michael Sauerwein and Municipal Court Judge Martin Fisher had both received positive performance evaluations and would receive new contracts for 2025.

Summarizing the discussion in the non-public session held Dec. 9, Council President Greg Ervin said, “The Council is quite satisfied with the performance of our city manager at this time. We are very grateful to have Mr. Sauerwein here.”

Poetry Peddler pens unique poems by request

CINDY WEELDREYER

Ervin noted highlights of Sauerwein’s evaluation included praise for his community involvement with business owners and his regular appearances on KNND Radio’s live call-in talk show to review the agenda topics and take calls from listeners.

often don’t recognize the behavioral

don’t ask for help, and we don’t want to look weak and not ask for help.”

Cindy Weeldreyer / Cottage Grove Sentinel

City Public Works and Development Director Faye Stewart presents longtime community volunteer and cyclist Don Stranhan with an award recognizing his 38 years of service to the City of Cottage Grove and its citizens. Also pictured is Council President Greg Ervin.

of employment, and subject to a satisfactory performance review, the annual salary shall be increased by three percent of the current base salary.

The council then voted unanimously to consider the performance evaluation as a satisfactory review and approved the salary increase effective Jan. 8.

Matchbooks from the Village Green Resort in Cottage Grove. See more photos with this story at

The new salary will be $193,392.

Dill added that while firefighters are on the front lines battling the wildfires, one of the biggest challenges they face is the unknown.

“It’s how rapidly theses fires can move, and the unknown is where is it going to end? Where will this fire go to and how long will it last? And that is a struggle,” he said.

“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.

last one for 2024. Solesbee participated in the meeting virtually, so Ervin presided over the relatively light agenda. Three empty seats on the dais conspicuously waited to be filled by the three newly elected councilors at the next meeting on January 6.

Cottage Grove Sentinel

CINDY WEELDREYER

For The Cottage Grove Sentinel

Looking for a creative holiday gift for someone special this month?

helped us meet many of our future bookstore customers,” Birdy said.

MATTOON’S BACKGROUND

COURT JUDGE CONTRACT RENEWED

Grovers gather to remember Village Green Resort

Local poet Charles Mattoon and his manual typewriter stand at the ready to write a one-of-a-kind poem based on your suggestions and has a demonstrated track record of his poems successfully meeting the expectations of his customers.

The 61-year-old is best known as the “Poetry Peddler.”

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.

She shared a humorous memory they made in the formal Iron Maiden Dining Room that drew laughter from the crowd.

His parents grew up in Lane County. His father, Harold, grew up in Oakridge and his mother, Joan, spent her youth in Cottage Grove.

The council also recognized what was described as the strong leadership Sauerwein demonstrated in a tumultuous environment caused by the unprecedented recall of four city councilors, the closure of the three homeless camps, and noted that his first day on the job was during last January’s severe ice storm.

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

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.”

He and his friend, Michael Brennan, are familiar faces on Saturdays at the South Valley Farmers Market in the summer and at its Winter Markets in December.

the way” during the construction project.

They moved to Southern California where Mattoon was born and then moved to Cottage Grove when he was a teenager. He is a 1981 graduate of Cottage Grove High School and, like some Lion grads do, he left town soon after graduation in

“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.”

See POETRY, Page 6

Nearly 50 people attended the Cottage Grove Historical Society’s “Farewell to the Village Green” at the Community Center, Saturday, Sept. 21. The internationally famous resort was created by Walter A. Woodard (W.A.) and his son, Carlton. Some members of the family attended and shared personal memories.

THROUGH THE LENS

Ervin thanked Sauerwein for involving city staff in the evaluation process. He said it gave the council greater insight into the city manager’s performance in the past 12 months, in addition to feedback provided by individual councilors and the mayor.

City Recorder Mindy Roberts noted Sauerwein’s employment contract states after one year

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

He said he was given an important job of opening the boxes delivered to the guest rooms and recalled how cool he felt driving the orange golf cart around the property for assigned errands. Years later, another special memory was seeing the famous football player, O.J. Simpson, running on one of the resort’s paths.

In a separate executive session, the council met with Municipal Judge Martin Fisher to review his performance evaluation. Fisher was first appointed to preside over the Municipal Court in 2013 and, with his positive evaluation, the council voted unanimously to renew his annual contract, amend it for another calendar year, and authorize Mayor Solesbee to sign the new one that takes effect Jan. 1.

To the delight of those gathered, Kris’ brother, Casey Woodard,

NEW COUNCILORS TO TAKE OATH OF OFFICE

The Dec. 9 meeting was the

Both Solesbee and Ervin were re-elected on Nov. 5; Mayor Solesbee for her second two-year term and Ervin retained his position for the next four years. They were joined by Councilors Dana Merryday and Randell Lammerman.

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.

Merryday retained his Ward 3 seat for another two years after an unsuccessful bid for mayor last month. Lammerman was appointed to the Council on Sept. 23, following the resignation of Cottage Grove Ward 2 City Councilor Jon Stinnett who did not seek re-election.

Filling those empty seats next month will be:

“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

• Ward 1 Councilor-elect

See EVALUATIONS, Page 6

CINDY WEELDREYER / COTTAGE

Cottage Grove

Wednesday, Oct 9 Mostly Cloudy

PHOTO JEREMY C. RUARK / COTTAGE GROVE SENTINEL

Jeremy C. Ruark / Cottage Grove Sentinel

Officer Derek Carlson watches as 8-year-old Hunter Heine picks a gift for his great grandparents during the Cottage Grove Police Shop with a Cop at Walmart.

Missing Bend woman rescued in remote Lane County

had been missing since Dec. 4. She was found alive in a remote area of Lane County Dec. 7.

JEREMY C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel

A missing 76-year-old woman from Bend has been found alive in a remote area of Lane County.

On Dec. 4, the Lane County Sheriff’s Office began investigating a missing person case involving Cheryl Leigh Guajardo. She was last believed to be driving in the Lowell area on Dec. 3.

Lane County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) Search & Rescue began a coordinated search of the area involving dozens of volunteers, deputies, and personnel from several assisting agencies. The search was ham-

pered by poor cell service in the remote area she went missing, preventing searchers from tracking her cell phone or vehicle, according to LCSO Sgt. Tim Wallace. This prompted a state-wide Silver Alert due to the possibility she had left the area.

The Silver Alert utilizes a variety of communication methods including electronic highway reader boards to advise the public of the missing person.

“On Dec. 7 at about 11 a.m., searchers located Guajardo’s vehicle on an overgrown spur road north of Lookout Point Lake, and a short time later, found Guajardo alive and responsive,” Wallace said.

Guajardo was transported by ambulance to an area hospital.

“During this search, dozens of personnel drove thousands of miles, and walked or rode hundreds of miles more. Multiple drones and aircraft searched the area from the air,” Wallace said.

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the many agencies that assisted with this search:

• Linn County Sheriff’s Office

• Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office

• Bend Police Depart-

ment

• Oakridge Fire Department

• Oregon State Police

• Oregon Department of Emergency Management

• Oregon Department of Transportation

• U.S. Coast Guard

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

• Federal Bureau of Investigation

• U.S. Forest Service

‘Thank you as well to the many residents of our state who have kept an eye out for Guajardo, and to Guajardo’s friends and family who assisted with the investigation and search,” Wallace said.

Tsunami warning prompts state safety advisory

JEREMY C.

RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) closed all beach access at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 5, due to the possibility of a tsunami following reports of a 7-magnitude earthquake near the coast of Northern California.

At 10:44 a.m., a magnitude 7.0 earthquake occurred offshore 56 miles east of Petrolia, California. The National Tsunami Warning Center in Palmer, Alaska issued a tsunami warning at 10:49 a.m. The tsunami warning extended north to the Douglas/Lane County border in Oregon and south to Davenport, California.

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a statement explaining that tsunami warnings mean that a tsunami with significant inundation is possible or is already occurring.

“Tsunamis are a series of waves dangerous many hours after initial arrival time,” the NWS said. “The first wave may not be the largest.”

The earthquake occurred in the Mendocino Triple Junction, which is a seismically active region where

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, DECEMBER 2

03:14: Business check, 900 block E. Main St.

03:45: Suspicious vehicle, 600 block Row River Rd.

03:54: Business check, 900 block E. Main St.

05:25: Illegal camping, 1400 block S. 8th St.

05:56: Alarm, 1500 block Gateway Blvd.

06:51: Bike stop, N. Douglas/Chamberlain

08:04: Disturbance, 900 block W. Main St.

09:40: Warrant service, 900 block Row River Rd.

09:43: Found dog, 400 block Main St.

11:44: Dog at large, 900 block N. Douglas St.

13:31: Business check, 900 block Row River Rd.

14:02: Found dog, Main/ Cemetery Rd.

14:40: Disorderly subject, 1300 block S. River Rd.

14:50: Unlawful entry into motor vehicle, 400 block S. 6th St.

16:20: Info, 700 block N.

16th St.

16:54: Motor vehicle crash, 6th/99

17:04: Alarm, 400 block

three tectonic plate boundaries intersect. The fault system where the earthquake originated is in the Mendocino Fracture Zone, which is the boundary between the Pacific and Juan de Fuca oceanic plates. More information about the earthquake and regional tectonic setting can be found at the USGS event page.

Oregon has a similar undersea earthquake zone, according to the Oregon Emergency Management Department (OEM), which has stated in previous published interviews that the Oregon underseas tremors have occurred in the Blanco Fracture Zone.

“It’s where we have two tectonic plates offshore that are sliding past each other and it’s just a really active area for these kinds of earthquakes,” OEM Geologic Hazards Program Coordinator Althea Rizzo said following two small quakes off the southern Oregon Coast in the summer of 2023. “This fault line is known by seismologists to be a hot spot for quakes. It’s constantly rocking and rolling out there.”

Rizzo said the undersea earthquakes that occur along the fault line do not pose a safety threat to Oregon

N. 14th St.

17:56: Main/Gowdyville

18:15: Missing person, 500 block Grant Ave.

19:59: Death investigation, 700 block Bennett Creek Rd.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3

01:56: Suspicious subject, Main/5th 07:26: Suspicious condition, 1500 block Harvey Ln. 08:42: Vicious dog, 81000 block Melody Ln.

08:56: Hit and run, 1500 block E. Main St.

09:05: Stolen vehicle, 400 block S. 6th St. 09:37: Abandoned vehicle, 1100 block Villard Ave.

10:08: Minor in possession, 1500 block S. 4th St.

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

14:01: Business check, 1500 block E. Main St.

14:44: Fraud, 100 block North K St.

15:17: Motor vehicle crash, Gateway Bvld/Main

16:21: Child abuse, 1000 block S. 8th St.

16:52: Child abuse, 170 block Gibbs Ave.

17:03: Juvenile, 1300 block E. Main St.

17:50: Abandoned vehicle, S. 14th/Gateway Blvd.

19:11: Welfare check, 77000 block S. 6th St.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4

02:06: Alarm, 1700 block E. Main St.

02:38: Abandoned vehicle, 1400 block N. Douglas St.

03:23: Suspicious subject, 1100 block E. Main St.

06:52: Alarm, 100 block

residents.

The Dec. 5 warning was canceled at 11:54 a.m., and no tsunami waves were observed along the Oregon Coast, according to a release from state agencies. OPRD reopened beach access at 3 p.m. Dec. 5.

WARNING TRIGGERS

ADVISORY FROM STATE AGENCIES

Following the earthquake and tsunami warning, the OEM, the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI), and the OPRD issued an advisory reminding Oregonians and visitors of the importance of earthquake and tsunami preparedness following the Dec. 5 events. Although the immediate threat has passed, the events underscore the importance of being prepared for future emergencies, the release states. Taking steps now to ensure readiness can make all the difference during natural disasters.

WHAT TO DO TO BE PREPARED

The state agencies have released the following:

• Know your evacuation

Hwy 99

routes: Whether you’re at home, work, or visiting the coast, familiarize yourself with local tsunami evacuation routes. Maps are often posted in coastal areas or can be found online using the DOGAMI/NANOOS Tsunami Evacuation |Zones.

• Sign up for emergency alerts: Stay informed by subscribing to alerts at ORalert.gov for emergency notifications tied to your zip code—including earthquake and tsunami alerts. And turn on the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your phone, so you will receive alerts based on where your phone is located (important if you are visiting the coast).

• Create a go kit: Prepare a portable emergency kit with essentials such as food, water, medications, and personal documents.

• Review your emergency plan: Ensure everyone in your household knows what to do during an earthquake or tsunami, including where to meet and how to communicate if separated. You can learn more about emergency planning with the free Be2WeeksReady Toolkit.

FOR TRAVELERS

• Check Travel Conditions: If traveling, visit

POLICE BLOTTER

08:41: Abandoned vehicle, 1100 block N. 16th St.

08:59: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.

09:54: Citizen assist, 1000 block Hwy 99

10:34: Unlawful entry into motor vehicle, 400 block Hwy 99

11:02: Burglary, 300 block S. 22nd St.

11:19: Child abuse, 1500 block Ash Ave.

12:00: Welfare check, 1000 block South 1st St.

12:06: Welfare check, 200 block Gateway Blvd.

13:42: Disabled vehicle, 100 block Thornton Ln.

13:54: Assault, 900 block Row River Rd.

14:00: Theft, 900 block Row River Rd.

14:56: Vicious dog, 1300 block S.River Rd.

15:21: Criminal mischief, Ash/M

16:19: Suspicious condition, 100 block Ostrander Ln.

16:27: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.

17:05: Trespass, 100 block Gateway Blvd.

17:35: Fire, 200 block S. 3rd St.

23:09: Theft, 1000 block E. Washington Ave.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5

03:19: Disturbance, 77000 block Hwy 99

06:11: Alarm, 100 block Hwy 99

07:37: Abandoned vehicle, North M/Birch Ave.

08:41: Alarm gas, 200 block S. 17th St.

09:38: Fraud, 2100 block Cemetery Rd.

09:48: Trespass, 600 block Row River Rd.

10:09: Criminal mischief, 1400 block Hwy 99

10:40: Business check, 600 block Row River Rd.

12:20: Suspicious condition, 75000 block London Rd.

13:01: Repo, 800 block South 1st St.

13:59: Suspicious condition, 1300 block S. 6th St. 14:35: Illegal camping, 900 block Row River Rd. 14:50: Welfare check, 1808 block E. Main St.

14:55: Disorderly subject, 1000 block E. Main St.

15:25: Suspicious subject, 900 block Grover Ave.

17:3: Fire, 77000 block S. 6th St.

17:25: Suspicious condition, 900 block W. Main St. 19:33: Business check, 1200 block E. Main St. 19:52: Suspicious vehicle, 1700 block Hwy 99 21:13: Child abuse, 7400 block 1st St.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6

01:12: Welfare check, 200 block South O St.

01:54: Suspicious vehicle, 100 block S. 10th St. 04:57: Order violation, 400 block E. Main St.

07:54: Juvenile problem, Hillside/Taylor

10:11: Welfare check, 1100 block E. Jefferson Ave.

11:03: Welfare check, 1200 block E. Main St. 11:15: Agency assist, 77000 block S. 6th St.

12:35: Hit and run, 800 block Row River Rd.

13:06: Disorderly subject, 2300 block E. Whiteaker Ave.

13:27: Agency assist, 1200 block E. Main St. 13:49: Hit and run, 900

This illustration shows the area along the Oregon Coast where undersea earthquakes have occurred over the past several years.

www.tripcheck.com for real-time road conditions in Oregon.

Neighboring States: If your travel extends to California or Washington, check their Department of Transportation websites for updates: Travel / Caltrans, Travel Center Map / WSDOT

DOGAMI encourages coastal residents and visitors to use this event as a reminder to stay informed about tsunami hazards and

block Row River Rd.

14:57: Disturbance, 100 block E. Jefferson Ave.

15:00: Death investigation, 700 block N. 11th St.

16:03: Suspicious subject, Landess/Shields 16:20: Abandoned vehicle, 100 block S. 10th St.

16:52: Disorderly subject, 800 block E. Whiteaker Ave.

17:15: Dog at large, 1400 block Gateway Blvd.

17:39: Trespass, 500 block S. 3rd St.

18:58: Wanted subject, 800 block S. 10th St.

19:41: Wanted subject, 1300 block Ash Ave.

20:02: Business check, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.

21:04: Welfare check, 400 block E. Main St. 21:42: Found dog, W. Main/N. River Rd.

22:16: Suspicious vehicle, 100 block S. 10th St.

23:50: Business check, 900 block E. Main St.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

01:14: Warrant service, 800 block Row River Rd.

08:11: Citizen assist, 900 block Row River Rd.

09:40: ATL, 300 block S. River Rd.

09:58: Motor vehicle crash, Row River Rd/Gateway

11:11: Abandoned vehicle, Gateway/Main

12:29: Suspicious vehicle, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.

13:24: Disturbance, 400 block N. 10th St.

13:47: Suspicious condition, 2300 block E. Whiteaker Ave.

13:52: Person stop, 900 block Row River Rd.

14:36: Civil, 700 block

to practice evacuation drills regularly. DOGAMI provides additional information about tsunami preparedness at the Oregon Tsunami Clearinghouse. OPRD recommends exploring Oregon’s beautiful coast safely by always being prepared for emergencies.

For more information about earthquake and tsunami preparedness, visit Tsunami Safety. Read more with this story at cgsnetinel.com

Benjamin Ave.

16:15: Welfare check, N. Douglas/Vincent Pl.

19:03: Business check, Chevron

19:04: Welfare check, 1600 block Samuel Dr.

19:48: Disturbance, 1800 block W. Harrison Ave.

21:11: Found property, 800 block W. Main St.

21:17: Info, 1500 block Village Dr. 22:44: Fire, 37000 block Row River Rd.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

00:00: Nuisance, 800 block E. Main St.

01:09: Disorderly subject, 100 block Gateway Blvd.

04:31: Welfare check, 1800 block E. Taylor Ave. 05:52: Alarm, 2700 block Row River Rd.

07:28: Business check, 1200 block E. Main St.

08:44: Death investigation, 1700 block Hwy 99

10:52: Disorderly subject, 1300 block E. Main St.

11:10: Alarm, 100 block Hwy 99

12:27: Theft, 900 block Row River Rd.

14:21: Harassment, Crestview Terrace

14:32: Welfare check, 700 block Birch Ave.

15:48: Shots fired, 31000 block CG Lorane Rd. 17:59: Reckless driving, 400 block E. Main St.

19:08: Business check,

Courtesy from the LCSO Cheryl Leigh Guajardo, 76, of Bend

Courtesy photo

Oregon Gov. Kotek, lawmakers say state needs to keep focus

Oregon Capital Chronicle

Editor’s note: The Capital Chronicle is running an end-of-year fundraising campaign, with a $10,000 goal, to help us continue our first-class coverage next year. A lot is at stake, and there’s a long legislative session in 2025. We’re completely dependent on donor dollars, and they’re tax deductible. Please contribute to us if you can.

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek doubled down Monday on her requests for more funding and more attention for housing, homelessness, behavioral health and education ahead of a legislative session likely to be dominated by transportation debates.

Kotek said that people — including some of the business leaders listening to her at the Oregon Leadership Summit in the Oregon Convention Center’s Portland ballroom on Monday — have told her she picked a tough set of issues on which to stake her reputation.

“Housing and homelessness, mental health and addiction and education do not lend themselves to quick results, or, frankly, winning popularity contests,” she said.

But, she said, the state is making progress. Her 39.3 billion proposed budget includes more than $700 million intended to shelter homeless Oregonians and keep them from falling into homelessness and about $1.4 billion in bonds and infrastructure funding to help the state build its way out of a decades-long housing shortage that drove up rents and home prices. Kotek estimates that one in three Oregonians who were home-

less on her first day in office will be rehoused by the end of her term in 2027 — but that would still leave about 13,000 Oregonians living on the streets or in shelters.

Her budget also includes $11.4 billion for the State School Fund, $127 million targeted toward literacy and $78.5 million for summer learning, and Kotek said on stage she “strongly encourages” legislators to maintain those figures when they finalize the state’s next twoyear budget when they meet for a long session next year.

She said that an increase in funding will come with increased accountability for school districts and the state Department of Education to make sure students are improving. Kotek told the Capital Chronicle after her speech that she didn’t want to get ahead of a notyet-released report from state education department director Charlene Williams, but said she agreed with an opinion column published in the Oregonian/OregonLive this weekend by former Rep. Barbara Smith Warner, a close Kotek ally, and former Sen. Arnie Roblan.

The column described how the 2019 Student Success Act was based on feedback from students, educators and families and requires school districts to review data. The former lawmaker wrote that districts must also set targets to improve third-grade reading, graduation rates and attendance and the state education department should step in to help struggling schools.

OTHER PRIORITIES

Kotek’s budget priorities will compete with other legislative initiatives, including the semi-truck in the room: the state’s transpor-

tation funding package.

The Oregon Department of Transportation says it needs $2.8 billion annually — about $1.8 billion more than its current budget — just to maintain operations, leaving little for construction projects like a new bridge on Interstate 5 over the Columbia River. Kotek’s budget allocates $1.75 billion for the State Highway Fund, which she described as a minimum.

In a panel with lawmakers, state Senate President Rob Wagner, D-Lake Oswego, said that historically the Legislature funds transportation through periodic transportation packages with lawmakers trading votes and jockeying for money for projects in their districts. This time, he said the goal is to craft a more stable plan for transportation funding as gas tax revenue continues to shrink with more electric and fuel-efficient vehicles.

“We have to have a system that’s going to be able to reliably move freight and move people across our region and across all four corners of Oregon,” Wagner said.

While lawmakers are focused on transportation, House Speaker Julie Fahey, D-Eugene, said they also need to keep paying attention to housing, homelessness and behavioral health.

Portland’s Moda Center in 2023, Kotek and a task force she assembled to revitalize downtown Portland released a set of recommendations to fix the city’s problems with homelessness, crime and its national image. On Monday, she trumpeted news that Portland will get a new WNBA team and may be considered for a future major league baseball expansion as proof that those recommendations, which included tax breaks, more police and trash pickup, are having an impact.

But she also admonished some in the audience to “stop trash-talking” Portland.

“How we talk about this community that we live in and we love truly matters,” Kotek said. “It’s up to all of us to tell Portland’s comeback story.”

LAWMAKERS DIFFER ON STATE’S FUTURE OUTLOOK

Democratic and Republican leaders in the Oregon Legislature struck markedly different tones about the state’s economic outlook, with House Majority Leader Ben Bowman, D-Tigard, describing “really exciting” things he heard from business leaders and Senate Minority Leader Daniel Bonham saying the state’s future was as cloudy as the weather outside.

lean into those strengths, and by leaning into those strengths, we can perform at an even higher level,” Bowman said.

Bowman acknowledged that the state faces challenges with a lack of developable industrial land and infrastructure, a challenging tax environment and workforce shortages, but said those are issues that developed over decades and will take time and work to fix. He shared a quote from retired general and former Defense Secretary Jim Mattis: “Cynicism is cowardice,” and recommended a book, “Recoding America: Why Government Is Failing in the Digital Age and How We Can Do Better” that focuses on how government hasn’t been effective.

“I think there’s a lot of opportunity for bipartisan, collaborative work aimed at making government work better,” Bowman said. “It’s not sexy. Audits are not sexy. Implementation monitoring is not sexy, but it’s really, really important.”

Bonham, the Senate Republican leader, said Oregon’s entrepreneurs have to be determined and dynamic to overcome obstacles the state government throws their way.

“How many times do we have to hear that at this summit before we decide to go in a different direction?” he asked, saying state policies are the definition of insanity.

said.

“We have an opportunity to reshape, restructure and approach these challenges differently. And I am optimistic that that’s possible. I’m irrationally optimistic that that’s possible,” she said. “I also am a pragmatist, and I recognize that you have supermajorities now in the House and the Senate, and there’s no reason to ask Republicans to be a part of that conversation, other than to just have us come along with the final vote.”

Kotek said she heard and agreed with Drazan’s comments about not doing business as usual, and she has heard concerns from Republicans that Democrats’ three-fifths majorities in the House and Senate next year will lead to Republicans being left out. Supermajorities — 18 votes in the Senate and 36 in the House — will give Democrats the power to pass new taxes or increase existing ones without Republican support and make it easier for Democrats to pass other bills.

“I think the legislative leadership, the Senate president and the speaker, are very committed to being inclusive,” Kotek said. “We just have to be thinking, is everybody at the table? Is everybody having a conversation? Whether it’s transportation, housing, whatever the topic is.”

https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/12/09/ oregon-gov-kotek-lawmakers-say-state-needs-to-keepfocus-on-housing-educationmentalhealth/

“We cannot just switch to the next thing,” Fahey said. “We have to maintain the work that we’re doing.”

At the last summit, at

“We have a lot that we should be proud of, and what we heard from the previous presentations was we should

Rep.-elect Christine Drazan, a Canby Republican who will take over as minority leader after stepping down from the House in 2021 and losing the 2022 gubernatorial election to Kotek, said economic indicators show the state is struggling — the state’s population has declined in recent years and large companies including Intel have laid off workers.

Drazan said those should be signs that state policies haven’t worked. This should be an inflection point, she

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.

Local families recognized for forest management

JEREMY C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel

The Oregon Tree Farm System has honored family forest landowners, including a Lane County couple, for the exceptional management of their forests.

Top honors went to Douglas County’s Kesterson family as Oregon’s Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year for 2025.

The Kesterson family’s 2,200-acre property near

Elkton in Douglas County has been in the family since 1905. Currently under the leadership of fifth-generation owner Gary Williamson, the property is managed for wood, recreation, wildlife and water quality.

The property has approximately nine miles of river frontage along the Umpqua River. Their Big K Guest Ranch offers fishing, rafting, and accommodations for family and corporate gatherings.

The family manages 1,500 acres of forest for timber and wildlife habitat, and approximately 700 acres of pasture and hay fields for a herd of 90 cows.

Wildlife habitat and water quality are a focus on both the forested and streamside areas.

With much to be proud of managing the property, Gary Williamson said he is most proud, blessed, and honored to be a part of a family that has been caring for the property for five generations, with his children being part of the sixth.

Receiving a Silver Award at the Oregon Tree Farm’s Annual Meeting were Tom and Julia Tibbs of Washington County for their multi-resource management of their 300 forested acres near Buxton.

Others being recognized for exemplary management of their family forests included:

• Rich Clark from Benton County

• John and Alesanne Dugan from Lane County

• Steve and Katie Kohlfrom Linn County

• Neil Schroeder and Laurie and Jim Marsh from Yamhill County

Oregon joined the Tree Farm System in 1941 and has recognized and honored family forest landowners as Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year every year since 1966, except in 2021 the first year of the COVID pandemic.

The recognition was conducted during the Oregon Tree Farm System’s annual meeting in November.

Courtesy photo John and Alesanne Dugan of Lane County were recognized for exemplary management of their family forest.

Rian Dundon / Oregon Capital Chronicle

Gov. Tina Kotek was among the speakers at this year’s Oregon Leadership Summit in the Oregon Convention Center on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024.

Albertsons sues Kroger after judges block $24.6B merger

JULIA SHUMWAY Oregon Capital Chronicle

Editor’s note: The Capital Chronicle is running an end-of-year fundraising campaign, with a $10,000 goal, to help us continue our first-class coverage next year. A lot is at stake, and there’s a long legislative session in 2025. We’re completely dependent on donor dollars, and they’re tax deductible. Please contribute to us if you can.

On Wednesday, the day after a federal judge in Oregon and a state judge in Washington blocked a merger between two supermarket giants, Albertsons canceled the $24.6 billion merger agreement and sued Kroger.

The grocery chain, which owns 24 Albertsons locations and 97 Safeway stores in Oregon, sued Kroger

in the Delaware Court of Chancery, alleging the larger grocer didn’t do enough to secure regulatory approval for its 2022 agreement to buy Albertsons. The Federal Trade Commission, joined by seven states including Oregon and the District of Columbia, sued to block the merger in U.S. District Court in Oregon earlier this year, and a federal judge in Portland temporarily halted the merger Tuesday. A state judge in Washington state also blocked the merger from proceeding there. Both judges agreed with federal regulators and state attorneys general that the merger would lead to reduced competition and harm both customers and grocery workers — customers with higher prices and lowerquality goods and workers with lower pay. The complaint Albertsons

filed in the Delaware court isn’t yet public, but the company said in a press release that Kroger “willfully breached” the merger agreement by ignoring feedback from regulators, refusing to divest assets needed for antitrust approval or find stronger buyers for divested assets and failing to cooperate with Albertsons.

Kroger owns 51 Fred Meyer stores in Oregon, as well as four QFC locations in Portland. Before the merger fell apart, Kroger and Albertsons had agreed to sell 579 stores across the country, including dozens in Oregon, in an attempt to mollify regulators concerned about a monopoly.

Tom Moriarty, Albertsons’ general counsel and chief policy officer, said in a statement that the merger would have helped consumers but that Kroger acted in its own financial self-interest

Oregon State University to receive

JEREMY C. RUARK

Cottage Grove Sentinel

Oregon State University (OSU) will receive a federal investment of nearly $2.49 million to develop and test marine energy devices that are key in the climate crisis battle.

The federal investment through the U.S. Depart-

ment of Energy will be used to identify new forms of marine energy, and to generate publicly available data and test platforms to increase efficiency of marine energy devices.

The financial resources from the US Department of Energy Water Power Technologies Office, and the associated support from the

COTTAGE GROVE:

6th & Gibbs Church of Christ

195 N. 6th St. • 541-942-3822

10:00am

Christian Education: Pre-K through 5th Tim Baker, Senior Minister www.6thandgibbs.com

Cottage Grove Bible Church 1200 East Quincy Avenue

541-942-4771

Pastor:Ron Harris

Worship 11am Sunday School:9:45am AWANA age 3-8th Grade, Wednesdays Sept-May, 6:30pm www.cgbible.org

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

Oregon delegation, are necessary to continue building the next generation of offshore wave energy technologies and environmental monitoring capacity while working with communities and regional groups to ensure fairness in process and outcomes, according to OSU Pacific Marine Energy Center Director Dr.

instead.

“Kroger’s self-serving conduct, taken at the expense of Albertsons and the agreed transaction, has harmed Albertsons’ shareholders, associates and consumers,” Moriarty said. “We are disappointed that the opportunity to realize the significant benefits of the merger has been lost on account of Kroger’s willfully deficient approach to securing regulatory clearance.”

Albertsons is seeking an immediate $600 million termination fee and billions more to reimburse the company for the loss of the money Kroger agreed to pay and decreases in shareholder value, the statement said.

Kroger called Albertsons’ claims “baseless” and said that Albertsons actually repeatedly breached their agreement and interfered through the merger process.

“This is clearly an attempt

to deflect responsibility following Kroger’s written notification of Albertsons’ multiple breaches of the agreement, and to seek payment of the merger’s break fee, to which they are not entitled,” the statement said.

“Kroger looks forward to responding to these baseless claims in court. We went to extraordinary lengths to uphold the merger agreement throughout the entirety of the regulatory process and the facts will make that abundantly clear.”

Oregon leaders including Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum and U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden welcomed news of the merger’s failure Tuesday.

“This is great news for grocery shoppers in Oregon who would have faced higher prices at Kroger and Albertsons if this illconceived consolidation had gone through,” Wyden

said. “I’m glad the court has shelved this monster deal because in addition to raising grocery prices for shoppers already tiptoeing on an economic tightrope, it would have made it that much harder for Oregonians to find a pharmacy and for workers at both supermarket chains to seek fairer wages and better working conditions.”

https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/12/11/ albertsons-sues-kroger-afteroregon-washington-judgesblock-24-6-billion-merger/ 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.

for Marine Energy Research

Bryson Robertson.

“With this funding Oregon State University and the Pacific Marine Energy Center will be able to continue our long heritage of developing homegrown talent to develop technology solutions, create new companies, and fill good renewable energy jobs across the USA,” Robertson said.

U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley with U.S. Representative Val Hoyle announced the federal funding Dec. 9.

“There is huge potential to build an even stronger tool in the fight against the ongoing climate crisis with the development of marine energy technology right here in our state with the world-class researchers at OSU,” Wyden said. “While there is much more work to be done to fine-tune marine energy projects, I will continue to support research to develop renewable energy projects that generate jobs and climate gains alike.”

“Oregon State Univer-

sity is at the forefront of harnessing the power of our oceans to drive clean energy innovation,” said Merkley. “These federal investments will advance several projects at OSU for groundbreaking research in marine energy technologies, helping to unlock the immense potential of our coastal resources. By turning the movement of waves into renewable energy, these projects will strengthen Oregon’s role in fighting climate chaos.”

“These funds will help Oregon State University researchers make progress on developing marine energy technology, which could

be a key tool to address climate change,” Representative Hoyle said. “We need a wide variety of energy sources to make sure clean power remains affordable and reliable. OSU is leading the way by testing marine energy devices right here in Oregon’s Fourth Congressional District.” Wyden, Merkley and Hoyle have long advocated developing marine energy technology through research at OSU to help combat the effects of climate change. In June, the lawmakers announced $5.5 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to OSU for marine energy research.

Hope Fellowship United Pentecostal Church

100 S. Gateway Blvd. 541-942-2061

Pastor: Dave Bragg

Worship: 11:00am Sunday Bible Study: 7:00pm Wednesday www.hopefellowshipupc.com “FINDING HOPE IN YOUR LIFE”

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

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: Herb Percy 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 6:5 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

Arletta Moody Snyder

Arletta Moody Snyder, age 66, of Cottage Grove, Oregon, died December

8, 2024. Arrangements are in the care of SmithLund-Mills Funeral Chapel and Crematorium

Dana Floyd Cosner Dana Floyd Cosner, 67, of Cottage Grove, Oregon passed away December

2, 2024. Arrangements are in the care of SmithLund-Mills Funeral Chapel and Crematorium.

$2.49M

Courtesy photo from OSU

This diagram outlines the Oregon State University’s construction of a wave energy testing facility off the Oregon Coast.

NEWS & VIEWS

After the Election: A conversation with Val Hoyle

NATE SCHWARTZ Country Media, Inc.

After another successful campaign for Oregon’s 4th Congressional District, Representative Val Hoyle will be looking to continue her work for the area.

We caught up with Hoyle to discuss her priorities, the impact of the new administration, and the Port of Coos Bay expansion.

Q

– What does it mean to have the South Coast’s support regardless of party affiliation? Why do you think you’ve maintained support in a red area?

Val Hoyle – “Well, other than having my children, being able to represent this district in Congress is my greatest honor. I didn’t come from a place where I was likely to be in Congress, and I feel a real responsibility and affinity for the South Coast as we fight to make sure that the South Coast can be that economic engine again. Where our kids can have opportunity at home, and not have to leave to find their way out in the world.

“I spend a fair amount of time on the south coast, and ultimately, I think that it’s the most beautiful place on Earth. I know that sounds very schmaltzy but it’s how I feel.”

Q

– For the start of your term, what bills, or house resolutions are you prioritizing, and what should South Coasters be paying attention to?

Hoyle – “The first thing I want to do is make sure that we use the rest of this session (this would the 118th session of congress). That ends January 3rd, when we get sworn in to the next session of congress (the 119th).

“And there’s still a lot to do. One is to make sure the Fix Our Forests Act, that was passed through the House to address wildfire prevention and wildfire fighting, comes back over before the end of the year with a permanent increase in wildland firefighting pay. That’s critical. Also, with funding for some of the things that we need to do to make sure there’s less things to burn in our forests. That may be coming back with a lands package, which would be great because there’s potential for getting the mining withdrawal for the Smith River down in Curry County. That would be really important.

“We also have a number of community projects that we would like funded. Infrastructure projects, things

Avoid employment scams in 2025

that are really important. Whether it’s a wildland firefighter training center or just helping out our commercial fishing industry.

“Basically, I’m going to continue to focus on what I have focused on in the 119th [session]. Wildfire funding and prevention, support for our coastal regions, whether that’s commercial fishing, whether that’s infrastructure. Then, making sure that we protect workers and stand up for the values that Oregonians believe in.”

Q – To the opposite side of that coin if I may, how do you think that the oncoming administration will affect those big Oregonian issues? Things like conservation?

Hoyle – “The new administration has made it very clear that they want to move away from investment in green energy and the push away from fossil fuels. We are on the forefront, right on the frontlines of the effects of climate change. With our hotter and drier conditions, with conditions in the ocean, it really shouldn’t be a partisan issue to think about protecting our environment and sustainability, especially if we do it in a way that balances jobs and the environment. These should not be mutually exclusive.

“And the Port of Coos Bay project is a clear example of that. What we’ll be doing with the expansion is make sure the Port gets back to its former days, when it was one of the busiest, most-critical ports in the entire world. And we’ll be moving those containers by rail out to the Midwest, allowing our farmers, ranchers, and manufacturers to be able to have access to markets in the East and in Asia.

“That will still be, I believe, a priority for the incoming administration, because we’ve been very careful to have bipartisan support for the Port of Coos

Bay project. Again, it’s not democratic or republican to want to strengthen our supply chain, and we’ve got strong bipartisan support for that project.

“Look, this is going to be a very different direction from the Biden administration. My greatest concern right now, especially for Oregon and the South Coast, is the Trump administration saying they are going to put blanket tariffs on Mexico, on Canada, and on China.

“My background is international trade, and tariffs are something that should be used with surgical precision to make sure that you have an outcome that you’re looking for. With a blanket 10% tariff on [these countries] it affects the goods that we import. And also, for our manufacturers, parts for the things that we manufacture. I’ve talked to a lot of manufacturers, businesses here in the United States and they are very concerned.

“Oregon is a very tradedependent state, it’s one of the most trade-dependent in the country, so it could affect our economy quite badly.”

Q – To touch back on the Pacific Coast Intermodal Port, how would you assess the progress of that project after those two huge funding packages?

Hoyle – “The funding packages are specifically for the planning, environmental, and permitting processes. Helping the port move forward with those things, with community outreach, and making sure we have really good processes for permitting and that we’re following the environmental protection laws.

“Senator Merkley is over in Asia right now, along with people from PCIP, talking to shippers there and letting them know, and talking about the opportunity we have for shippers to

See ELECTION, Page 8

This time of year, people look ahead to 2025 with hopes and aspirations for many things.

Topping the “new year, new me” list are hopes for a new job. According to a recent Gallup report, about half of all employees are looking for new job opportunities. However, for anyone planning a job hunt, Better Business Bureau (BBB) recommends being on the lookout for fake job scams, an increasingly risky thread to online job hunters.

Whether you’re looking for seasonal work, a way to make quick money online, or a new career path, it’s important to research potential employers to make sure they’re legitimate and reputable.

Here’s what you need to know about employment scams in order to make sure the businesses you apply to in 2025 are trustworthy and legitimate.

WHAT IS AN EMPLOYMENT SCAM?

Employment scams are sophisticated schemes that target eager and sometimes vulnerable job hunters.

According to investigations by BBB, employment scams impact an estimated 14 million people annually, resulting in over $2 billion in losses. The median loss per victim is $1,995, with recent BBB Scam Tracker reports exceeding $10,000 in losses — a devastating blow to individuals simply trying to secure meaningful work.

These scams primarily target young adults, with individuals between 18 and 44 being the most frequent victims. Particularly alarming is that those aged 18 to 24 are at the highest risk of falling prey to online schemes in general.

WHAT EMPLOYMENT SCAMS LOOK LIKE

Employment scams create fake job opportunities, often for remote positions, that impersonate legitimate businesses or trusted brands.

These fraudulent listings appear on job sites and social media, and can even arrive via email or text if your information has been compromised. The scammers’ ultimate goals are to steal personal information, time, labor and money.

Before “hiring,” they may demand excessive personal

According to investigations by Better Business Bureau,

details, including ID photos, videos of you holding identification, and even social security numbers. These materials can be used for identity theft and related malicious activities.

After the “hiring” process, scammers use various methods to exploit victims. A common practice of employment scams is to charge an upfront fee for job training or job equipment. They might also “accidentally” overpay you with a fraudulent paycheck and request you wire the “excess” amount back to them from your bank account.

Some of the most common versions of this scheme BBB’s seen lately include: Reshipping jobs that involve handling stolen goods or items purchased with stolen credit cards.

Online “Task optimization” jobs where you “bid” money for a task that promises a big payout, collecting your money and labor then never paying out.

STAYING SAFE

To protect yourself, the most important thing you can do is research the company, the website, and the person who contacted you before you submit your application.

Go directly to the source: look up the job listings on the company’s website and research the hiring manager. While doing this, keep in mind the signs of an impostor website to avoid scams that pretend to be brands you know and trust.

Then, before applying for the job, look up the company’s reputation with trusted online tools like BBB.org to research the business’s ethics, transparency, and integrity.

For example, if you see that a business you are interested in is BBB Accredited, that means it has been thoroughly vetted and

has committed to acting in accordance with high ethical standards. In short, a few minutes of research can save you from potentially wasting weeks and/or falling into financial disaster due to an employment scammer.

ADDITIONAL TIPS

Be skeptical of upfront costs: Legitimate employers will not ask you to pay money to start working. Remember the golden rule of fraud prevention: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts and do your due diligence.

Look up the name of the company with the word “scam” to see if other job hunters have learned something fraudulent about the business.

For help recovering from a scam, and to warn others, report scams to BBB’s Scam Tracker and other trusted reporting entities. WHAT TO REMEMBER As employment scams continue to evolve, so must your approach to the job market. Finding your next job opportunity can be challenging, and a “toogood-to-be-true” job offer can sound tempting but protecting your personal and financial information should always be the priority. So, start your 2025 job hunt off the right way by approaching new opportunities with research, knowledge of current scams, and a healthy amount of skepticism. If you do, you’ll significantly increase your likelihood of avoiding scams and only working with the reputable and trusted companies that your “new year, new me” can be proud of!

Cameron Nakashima is the Better Business Bureau Great West + Pacific Media Engagement Manager.

CAMERON NAKASHIMA

Courtesy photo

Oregon’s 4th Congressional District Representative Val Hoyle.

C

hristmas Christmas Season in Cottage Grove

From Page 1

back to the community,”

SLCF&R member Jope Raabe said. “It’s a way for us to let the community know we are part of the community also. It gives us a chance to see community members.”

The majority of the food for the breakfast is

Poetry

Poetry Peddler pens unique poems by request

From Page 1

search of adventure.

He has lived in various places and always worked blue collar jobs: food delivery, home construction, custom framing in an art gallery, airport flight line, commercial fishing, art class figure modeling, and many others. Along the way he picked up some formal education: a Bachelor’s degree in Comparative History of Ideas at the University of Washington and a Master’s degree in English studies at Western Washington University in Bellingham.”

“It was always just me to support, I never married or had kids,” Mattoon said.

“I’ve always lived simply; enjoying simple pleasures and being creative -- modern dance at a university, lots of community theatre acting and some theatre writing –and now poetry and other writing projects.”

Evaluations

City manager, municipal judge get high marks in annual evaluations

From Page 1

Christine Hyink, will fill the position of recalled Councilor Chalice Savage, with a term expiring 2026.

• At-Large Councilor-elect Jim Settelmeyer will fill the position of recalled Councilor Mike Fleck, with a term expiring 2026.

• At-Large Councilor-elect Darrel Wilson, will fill the position with a term expiring 2028. This position was previously held by recalled Councilor Dreher who had a term expiring 2026.

OTHER COUNCIL

BUSINESS Citizen Appreciation

purchased locally through a SLCF&R community outreach fund.

The breakfast coordinator and a SLCF&R Division Chief Aaron Smith said the value of the free meal is approximately $2,000 and the event brings in approximately 300 people.

“This is showing appreciation during the holiday season,” Smith said. “We definitely value the taxpayers, and we have to find some way to give back other than just the 9-1-1 response. We want to do more than that. That’s

A few years ago, he moved back to The Grove to take care of his mother who is now 94-years-old.

Mattoon has written poetry sporadically for most of his adult life, “mostly for girlfriends or someone I wanted to be my girlfriend,” he said.

About 15 years ago, he competed in his first poetry slam in Eugene and began performing at Cottage Grove’s monthly Poetry Nights. Currently, Poetry Night is hosted by The Cottage Events Venue on the third Tuesdays from 7:309:30 p.m.

BIRTH OF THE POETRY PEDDLER

The genesis of his birth as the Poetry Peddler began eight years ago.

“In 2016, Michael had an idea. He, local poet Leo Rivers, and I started Poetry Peddler by the bike path on the east edge of town, giving away water and poetry that I wrote on the spot, by hand, on a topic from anyone interested who walked or biked by,” Mattoon recalled.

“Michael played music and added his highly extroverted flair to interacting with the

Award: Public Works and Development Director Faye Stewart began the meeting by recognizing Don Strahan, a 38-year resident of Cottage Grove, who is a lifelong cyclist and dedicated community volunteer. Following his retirement as the former administrator of the Lane Community College Cottage Grove Center, Strahan devoted his time to improving bicycling safety and developing 37 area bike rides to attract cyclists to town.

Stewart cited numerous examples of Strahan’s passionate commitment to the safety of local youth and adult cyclists. Since the mid-1990’s, Strahan has been a tireless advocate for safety improvements to the Row River Trail and for keeping the trail free from debris.

Stewart noted that one day, driving on Mosby Creek Road, he saw Strahan with a push broom

the tradition of the fire service.”

Thirty-year Eugene resident Terry Mathis, also known as Lane County Santa, took on the role of Santa at the Cottage Grove breakfast.

“This means everything to me,” he said. “I’ve been doing this for about seven years. I love doing Santa.”

Mathis said he has a system to engage with each child as they come for a visit with Santa.

“I ask them what their name is and if they’ve been good,” he said. “I show them my book and tell

public, especially when I’m busy writing. Leo was the Poetry Oracle, who took a question, randomly put his finger in one of his poetry books, and read the lines to answer the person’s question.”

A year later, in 2017, the trio set up a booth at the South Valley Farmers Market and Mattoon began using an old manual typewriter and charging a dollar for a poem. Rivers dropped out after the first few years and the price of a poem was later changed to a donation.

The Mattoon and Brennan duo just completed Poetry Peddler’s ninth season together. During the winter months they make appearances at Kalapuya Books and at Art Walks. He and Brennan have talked about doing weddings, wine tasting or other events, but this hasn’t yet materialized.

Over the years they have had many regular customers and one-timers who never came back to get their poem, so he has quite a collection of “orphan poems”. He said customers have been people of all ages, from all over the country and even abroad. He

sweeping debris off the popular trail. An emotional Strahan, who is moving out of the area, thanked Stewart and the Council for the special recognition and for their ongoing support for improving bicycle safety and promoting tourism among cyclists.

Two resolutions adopted:

A Public Records Request Policy that formally updates current local practice with state statutes and the submission of an ODOT grant for the next phase of development of the Lincoln Middle School Path. Appointments to City

them it’s written in invis-

ible elf ink, and it has the name of everyone who has been naughty or nice. I tell them a little red star is next to their name, and it means they’ve been especially good this year. I ask them what they think they did that was especially good and they always come up with an answer.”

Other holiday events held on Dec. 7 in Cottage Grove included bazaars, a community concert, a 5K walk/run, and the traditional lighting of the community Christmas tree at Trailhead Park.

gets a great sense of satisfaction when past customers stop by the booth and say they still have a poem he wrote for them years before.

A SUCCESS AND JOY

“It has been such a success and joy -- far beyond my expectations when we started,” Mattoon said. “People are sometimes very moved. I think we sometimes help fulfill a need many of us have for deep connection, or acknowledgement or, perhaps, I have been blessed enough sometimes to channel just the words someone wanted or needed to hear that day but couldn’t quite formulate. These are the special times when a little magic seems to happen, and it’s very fulfilling.”

Mattoon’s creative process has been evolutionary.

His poems have evolved from short, haiku-like, to longer ones with the small typewriter font and larger paper. With all the practice his concentration has increased so that “it takes a lot of ruckus around me to disturb my writing”.

“The poems come more

Advisory Committees: The Council approved reappointments for Planning Commissioners, Historic Preservation Commissioners and Urban Forestry Committee members who want to continue in their positions. Councilors were appointed to interview candidates to fill other vacancies on these citizen advisory committees.

Public Comments: Two residents, who live near the 12th Street overnight camp for unhoused individuals, stated their gratitude for a dramatically improved situation and reported there are

quickly now and have generally gotten better,” Mattoon said. “I just let go and allow the topic to suggest a first line. Something always comes up, then I just go from there. It’s a dance of both letting something come through me and using skill and experience to shape what comes. Not too intellectual or controlling, not a sloppy stream of consciousness either.”

He said it helps to connect with the person in front of him. Often the person gives some sort of backstory, emotion or other information and it inspires his writing. People may relate an intense episode they’ve lived or are living through, or they may just give him a topic and nothing else. Sometimes the poems are very serious, sometimes light or humorous.

He added, “Sometimes they’re just okay, but’s that’s okay, too. On a rare occasion someone doesn’t get what they hoped for and will ask me to do it again, which I will.”

SPECIAL MEMORIES

Mattoon said he is hon-

campers in tents along the outside of the fenced area during the day.

They have had confrontations with individuals urinating on their fence and hearing loud, obscenitylaced arguments. They were appreciative of city staff support on weekdays but noted there is no staff presence on the weekends.

Another resident, concerned about pedestrian safety, criticized the City’s management of traffic and the large numbers of individuals and families arriving and leaving Trailhead Park on Dec. 7 for the

ored when someone tells him they have put something inspiring he wrote on an altar or their refrigerator and look at it every day. He wrote a poem about “smelly shoes” and later learned the customer framed it and it hung it over the shoe rack.

One of his most memorable experiences was writing a poem for a man who recently discovered he had a daughter from a long-ago relationship. He asked for a poem to express his complex feelings to give to his daughter who was trying to connect with him. He later returned to the booth to say she responded positively, and things were developing well between them.

“A poem request like that can bring a lot of pressure to the writing, but part of the whole process is letting go and trusting the process, and it usually turns out well. I feel very blessed to be able to do this for people.” Mattoon may be reached at freelance 1@runbox.com

Who We Are is a frequent Sentinel feature highlighting the people in our community.

evening Tree Lighting Ceremony with Santa Claus.

The next regular Cottage Grove City Council meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 6, at Cottage Grove City Hall, 400 E Main Street. The pending items for the agenda are:

• Oaths of Office

• Committee Assignments

• Council President Election

• State of the City Address

• Construction Contract Awards

Jeremy C. Ruark / Cottage grove Sentinel

Dancers dazzle the crowd during the traditional holiday tree lighting ceremony Dec. 7 at Cottage Grove’s Trailhead Park.

Jeremy C. Ruark / Cottage grove Sentinel

5-year-old Greyson Ferrel and 8-year-old Ryker Ferrel share a moment with Santa during the Dec. 7 Breakfast with Santa event at the South Lane Fire & Rescue station in Cottage Grove.

Jeremy C. Ruark / Cottage grove Sentinel

Dozens of community members and others gathered at Trailhead Park for the annual Cottage Grove Christmas Tree lighting ceremony Dec. 7.

Classified

AVENUE; THENCE NORTH 89° 30’ WEST 81.96 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING IN SAID SECTION, TOWNSHIP AND RANGE IN LANE COUNTY, OREGON. The street address or other common designation, if any for the real property described above is purported to be: 3920 ROYAL AVE EUGENE, OREGON 97402 The Tax Assessor’s Account ID for the Real Property is purported to be: 170427210750010456572 Both the beneficiary and the trustee, ZBS Law, LLP have elected to foreclose the above referenced Trust Deed and sell the said real property to satisfy the obligations secured by the Trust Deed and a Notice of Default and Election to Sell has been recorded pursuant to ORS 86.752(3). All right, title, and interest in the said described property which the grantors had, or had power to convey, at the time of execution of the Trust Deed, together with any interest the grantors or their successors in interest acquired after execution of the Trust Deed shall be sold at public auction to the highest bidder for cash to satisfy the obligations secured by the Trust Deed and the expenses of sale, including the compensation of the trustee as provided by law, and the reasonable fees of trustee’s attorneys. The default for which the foreclosure is made is: The monthly installment of principal and interest which became due on 2/1/2024, late charges, and all subsequent monthly installments of principal and interest. You are responsible to pay all payments and charges due under the terms and conditions of the loan documents which come due subsequent to the date of this notice, including, but not limited to, foreclosure trustee fees and costs, advances and late charges. Furthermore, as a condition to bring your account in good standing, you must provide the undersigned with written proof that you are not in default on any senior encumbrance and provide proof of insurance. Nothing in this notice should be construed as a waiver of any fees owing to the beneficiary under the deed of trust, pursuant to the terms and provisions of the loan documents.The amount required to cure the default in payments to date is calculated as follows: From: 2/1/2024 Total of past due payments: $19,263.15 Late Charges: $692.76 Additional charges (Taxes, Insurance, Corporate Advances, Other Fees): $720.38 Trustee’s Fees and Costs: $1,757.33 Total necessary to cure: $22,433.62 Please note the amounts stated herein are subject to confirmation and review and are likely to change during the next 30 days. Please contact the successor trustee ZBS Law, LLP, to obtain a “reinstatement’ and or “pay-

off’ quote prior to remitting funds. By reason of said default the beneficiary has declared all sums owing on the obligation secured by the Trust Deed due and payable. The amount required to discharge this lien in its entirety to date is: $313,430.78 Said sale shall be held at the hour of 1:00 PM on 2/12/2025 in accord with the standard of time established by ORS 187.110, and pursuant to ORS 86.771(7) shall occur at the following designated place: Front Entrance to the Lane County Courthouse, 125 East 8th Avenue, Eugene, OR 97401 Other than as shown of record, neither the said beneficiary nor the said trustee have any actual notice of any person having or claiming to have any lien upon or interest in the real property hereinabove described subsequent to the interest of the trustee in the Trust Deed, or of any successor(s) in interest to the grantors or of any lessee or other person in possession of or occupying the property, except: NONE Notice is further given that any person named in ORS 86.778 has the right, at any time prior to five days before the date last set for 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(s) of the Trust Deed, and in addition to paying said 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 the trustee’s and attorney’s fees not exceeding the amounts provided by ORS 86.778. The mailing address of the trustee is: ZBS Law, LLP 5 Centerpointe Dr., Suite 400 Lake Oswego, OR 97035 (503) 946-6558 In construing this notice, the masculine gender includes the feminine and the neuter, the singular includes plural, the word “grantor” includes any successor in interest to the grantor as well as any other persons owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by said trust deed, the words “trustee” and ‘beneficiary” include their respective successors in interest, if any. Without limiting the trustee’s disclaimer of representations or warranties, Oregon law requires the trustee to state in this notice that some residential property sold at a trustee’s sale may have been used in manufacturing methamphetamines, the chemical components of which are known to be toxic. Prospective purchasers of residential

property should be aware of this potential danger before deciding to place a bid for this property at the trustee’s sale. Dated: 10/3/2024 ZBS Law, LLP By: Dirk Schouten, OSB# 115153 ZBS Law, LLP Authorized to sign on behalf of the trustee A-4826360 11/27/2024, 12/04/2024, 12/11/2024, 12/18/2024

CGS 24-3035

NOTICE OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION VACANCY

The City of Cottage Grove Historic Preservation Commission has one vacancy to fill on this volunteer body for a term that expires December 31, 2027. The Commission members are appointed by the City Council. The Historic Preservation Commission meets once on the third Monday of the month at 7pm. People interested in applying for this position need to complete a Volunteer Appointment Application available at the Community Development Department at City Hall or online at www. cottagegrove.org. The deadline for receiving applications is January 8th, 2025, by 5 p.m. For further information please contact the Community Development Department a 541-942-5501.

CGS 24-3036

NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMIS-

SION VACANCY

The City of Cottage Grove Planning Commission has one vacancy to fill on this volunteer body for a term that expires December 31, 2027. The Commission members are appointed by the City Council. The Planning Commission meets on the second and third Wednesday of the month at 7pm. People interested in applying for this position need to complete a Volunteer Appointment Application available at the Community Development Department at City Hall or online at www.cottagegrove.org. The deadline for receiving applications is January 8th, 2025, by 5 p.m. For further information please contact the Community Development Department at 541-942-5501.

CGS24-3037

The Towers, LLC proposes to build a 195-foot monopole communications tower at the approx. vicinity of 77329 McDole Road, Cottage Grove, Lane County, OR 97424. Public comments regarding potential effects from this site on historic properties may be submitted within 30 days from the date of this publication to: Trileaf Corp, Tonya Rahinsky, t.rahinsky@trileaf.com, 1395 S. Marietta Pkwy, Bldg. 400 Ste. 209, Marietta, GA 30067, 678-653-8673.

CGS24-3038

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Steven Dade, Jr. has been appointed Personal Representative of the Estate of Justin Dade, deceased, Lane County Circuit Court Case No. 24PB10830.

CGHS swimmers dive into new completive season

JEREMY C. RUARK

Cottage Grove Sentinel

The Cottage Grove High School Swim Team is preparing for its second meet set for 4:15 p.m. Dec. 20, hosting Crater and North Eugene in 4A-4 Sky Em League competition.

The Lions placed second in the team’s first competition, Cottage Grove Relays, held Dec. 6 at the Warren H. Daugherty Aquatic Center.

The relay results:

1-Marshfield 324

2-CG 309

3-Marist 302

4-Roseburg 278

5th-North Medford 212

6-North Bend 197

7-South Medford 174.

Lions Head Coach Shane Dye said this season there are 30 members of the team on the roster, including 16 boys and 14 girls.

“The strengths are experienced swimmers coming back from last season, then swimmers work hard at practice,” Dye said. “The weaknesses are we need more butterfliers!”

Dye pointed out that there are key CGHS swimmers for the new season.

Election

After the Election: A conversation with Val Hoyle

From Page 5

come here. This is a really good option for another port on the West Coast so the interest is strong.

“I see Avery Bengston, Aillia Kelty, and Josie Malmstadt as the leaders of the girls team,” he said. “Avery is the school record holder at CGHS in the 100 fly and back. Aillia and Josie both made the finals at the district meet last season and should improve on that. For the Boys team, Hayes Valley, Alex Hawks, Mathew Fergason and Jorge Rodriguez are the leaders of the team. They are all seniors that are tough and experienced.”

“

“THE HARDER YOU WORK, THE MORE LUCK YOU WILL HAVE.”

~ SHANE DYE, CGHS SWIM TEAM HEAD COACH

Dye said his coaching staff works directly with each student athlete to overcome the challenges the swimmer may face in the water.

“What we are doing specifically to help the swimmers overcome their

And since we secured the federal investment, that has spurred private sector interest in the port.

“So, these two grants were absolutely significant because without that initial federal investment: One, we wouldn’t really be moving forward with the permitting process in the same way. And two, it’s a big signal to bringing in private invest-

challenges is teach them how to swim better, and give them many opportunities to practice their skills,” he said.

I hope each swimmer on the teams takes away from our experience together is the importance of being on time, being goal oriented, and the value of hard work. The harder you work, the more luck you will have.

The CGHS swimmers have a nine-game regular schedule this season. The remaining schedule as published by the OSAA:

Jan. 17 3 p.m.

Sheldon vs. Cottage Grove Dual BSW Meet Warren H. Daughtery Aquatic Center)

Jan. 24 TBN

Cottage Grove vs. Marshfield Duel BSW Meet (Mingus Park Pool)

Jan. 31 4 p.m.

Roseburg vs. Cottage Grove BSW Meet (Cottage Grove)

Jan. 31 4:15 p.m. (Cottage Grove)

Cottage Grove, Roseburg, Thurston / Mohawk

ment. I’m really excited about the potential for the project.”

Q – I think a lot of the community is too, but the major concern circulating is about housing. How are we going to bring in so many workers, and how are we going to house them?

I know a big part of your work has been on workers housing in the area. Would you give us your perspective on that?

Hoyle – “As you know, on the coast, we have half a percent vacancy rate, so there isn’t enough housing for people right now, just for the jobs that we have.

North Point, the private company that will be building the terminal, put forward in their grant proposal and what they have committed to do is build enough housing for the construction workforce.

Feb. 7 4 p.m.

Cottage Grove (Warren H. Daughtery Aquatic Center)

Cottage Grove, Phoenix

Feb. 14 TBD Districts (Cottage Grove)

Cottage Grove, Hidden Valley, Marshfield, North Bend, Phoenix

Feb. 15 TBD Districts (Cottage Grove)

Cottage Grove, Hidden Valley, Marshfield, North Bend, Phoenix

Follow competition results at osaa.org and look for CGHS sports features in the Wednesday print version of The Sentinel.

“We expect there to be about 2200-2400 construction jobs, all told. Not all of them will be there at once, but North Point has committed to build workforce housing, and that workforce housing will be able to be used afterwards for permanent housing.

“It’s a critical piece. When I started working with North Point, the first thing I brought up was that this project cannot move forward without having adequate housing. So they committed to building it, and that’s the beauty of a public private partnership. I don’t believe that its government’s role to do everything. I think we make initial investments in infrastructure, that’s a good use of taxpayer dollars, and what that does is brings in private investment.

“We were really clear [with North Point], that for you to be successful, we

have to have more housing. And that’s something we need to deal with at the state level. There isn’t a place in this state that doesn’t have a housing issue... People really need more housing stock.”

Q – Do you have a closing message to the people of the South Coast?

Hoyle – “Just that our office is there, we have a regional representative that works to get out in and amongst the community. Our message is that: I was elected to represent the entire district, not just the blue sections because I’m a democrat, not just the urban areas. It’s the rural communities and the more conservative communities.

“What we can do is help people if they have an issue with a federal agency. So the IRS, VA, Social Security benefits, contact

us and we can help with that. If you need a passport. Any kind of federal agency people are having issues with, they can come to our office, and we have a number of people that do constituent work.

“We were elected to serve the people of this district and we’re going to work really hard over the next year to do that as best as possible.”

DISTRICT BACKGROUND

Oregon’s 4th congressional district represents the southern half of Oregon’s coastal counties, including Coos, Curry, Lincoln, Lane, and Benton counties, alongside the northwestern half of Douglas County and a sliver of Linn County.

Nate Schwartz is the editor of the Coos Bay World, one of several Country Media, Inc. publications.

Jeremy C. Ruark /Cottage Grove Sentinel

CGHS Head Swim Coach Shane Dye explains a point during practice at the Warren H. Daughtery Aquatic Center in Cottage Grove.

Jeremy C. Ruark /Cottage Grove Sentinel

CGHS Head Swim Coach Shane Dye demonstrates a swimming move as the student athletes pay careful attention.