The Cottage Grove entinel
Local flooding solutions
C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel
Continued heavy rain in late December and early this month has disrupted transportation and, in some cases, stranded area residents.
To gain insight into our region’s annual flooding issues, The Sentinel reached out to Lane County Public Information Officer Devon Ashbridge.
JEREMY C.
Cottage
Public
The Sentinel: We understand that a few families along Ricketts Road near Creswell were stranded in their homes due to the flooding. From the county’s vantage point, what physical conditions caused that to happen and is there anything the county can do to prevent it from happening again?
Devon Ashbridge: Portions of Ricketts Road flood almost annually. Like many roads in Lane County, it’s in a low-lying and very flat area at the bottom of the valley and there are multiple
“None
ever managed
creeks and ponds nearby. Historically, that area was a wetland or wet prairie and continues to remind us of that when we get a lot of rain in a short period of time. It’s not an uncommon issue in other areas with similar topography.
Our Road Maintenance crews do a lot of work each year to make sure our culverts and roadside ditches are clear of debris so water can flow away from the roads, but in such a flat area those features have a more limited ability to help with flooding (i.e., it’s flat and the water doesn’t have anywhere else to go so it pools and remains in place longer than other areas with more natural drainage). In the case of Ricketts Road, there are no good road engineering solutions that can solve the issue.
Crews began developing the smaller homeless camp site this week on the vacant lot at
Given how much more information we have these days about wetlands and flood zones, and increased environmental regulations, it’s highly doubtful Ricketts
See FLOODING, Page 6
The flooding prompted road closures in rural areas of the county.
Quarter Drop Arcade to open Jan. 25
C.
JEREMY
RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel
Bashi Ale’s life-long dream is becoming a reality along Main Street in Cottage Grove’s Historic Districtt.
financially viable to do it the way I wanted.”
Ale said eventually he found a place in his life where he could follow his dream of developing and running the arcade.
according to Jeff Dill, the founder of Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance (FBHA).
Dill established the FBHA in 2010 following Hurricane Katrina. He was than a Battalion Chief for a fire department in northwest Chicago.
State Representativeelect Darin Harbick ready to serve
“I saw our brothers and sisters struggle from the devastation that they saw, so I went back and got my degree and became a licensed counselor,” he said. “We started tracking EMS and firefighter suicides across America.”
CINDY WEELDREYER
Cottage Grove Sentinel
Read previous coverage about the homelessness challenges in Cottage Grove and follow new developments at cgsemtinel.com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Sentinel.
When the 83rd Oregon Legislative Assembly convenes in Salem on Jan. 21, the native Oregonian and lifelong McKenzie River Valley resident Darin Harbick, 55, takes his seat as House District 12’s newest state representative. Harbick defeated incumbent Charlie Conrad in the Republican primary last May and Democrat Michele Emmons in the Nov. 5 general election.
PERSONAL HISTORY
He said he is thankful for his parents who consistently taught him Christian values, modeled the importance of work ethics and instilled in him the significant value of a supportive family, good friends and community service.
often don’t recognize the behavioral help.”
Dill added that while firefighters are on the front lines battling the wildfires, one of the biggest challenges they face is the unknown.
“I DECIDED TO STOP SITTING ON THE SIDELINES AND GET INVOLVED.”
CINDY WEELDREYER
For The Cottage Grove Sentinel
In 1975, when Birdy Hoelzle and her sister Gail opened The Bookmine they were familiar with The Village Green.
Ale will open the Quarter Drop on Jan. 25. It is a new 1,600-square-foot arcade games store, located at 524 Main Street. Born and raised in California, Ale moved to Eugene approximately 20 years agon, and to Cottage Grove approximately 14 years ago. His past business experience includes work as a newspaper creative director and as a publishing company owner.
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.
“I wanted no compromises. I wanted it to be authentic and true,” he said. “And this community could use a little family entertainment. So, this made a lot of sense.”
home, and I’ve had a little mock arcade there,” he said. “When I decided to open the arcade in Cottage grove, I started buying the machines like crazy, bringing them back to my garage and fixing them up and storing them, and now they are here in my shop.”
Grovers gather to remember Village Green Resort
helped us meet many of our future bookstore customers,” Birdy said. She shared a humorous memory they made in the formal Iron Maiden Dining Room that drew laughter from the crowd.
With a home in Cottage Grove, Ale said and said he loves the community.
Ale has purchased the location and estimates the value of his arcade business at approximately $300,000, which includes the arcade machines that include several imported from Japan and Italy.
The son of a log truck driver, Harbick graduated from McKenzie High School in 1987 and married his high school sweetheart, Kail, in 1989. Together they raised three children and now enjoy the time they spend with their five grandchildren.
the way” during the construction project.
Starting out, Ale will operate the business on his own.
“It was a wonderful place to work and, being new in town, it
“Growing up in the 80s and 90s going to the local arcades was one of those quintessential childhood experiences. It’s where you and your friends went,” he said. “Those were real formable memories for me, and I grew up loving that experience. I always had an idea of wanting to create an arcade, but it wasn’t really
“It is a great little town,” he said. “The fact that we have an authentic Main Street with such a rich film history and the people here are so nice. I wanted the arcade here in Cottage Grove so that people can enjoy it. I wanted to offer something for people to do, for families to do.”
Matchbooks from the Village Green Resort in Cottage Grove. See more photos with this story at cgsentinel.com. See LEGACY, Page 6 See HEALTH, Page 6
Ale has collected many of the arcade machines over the years from all over California, Oregon, and Washington.
“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.”
“I have a large garage at my
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.
The Harbicks built, purchased and founded several businesses in the Upper McKenzie Valley, including Harbick’s General Store in Rainbow.
“We’ll see what response I get, and if there are a lot of quarters being dropped here to facilitate a staff,” he said.
As to who will visit Quarter Drop, Ale said he sees a broad mix of families with their children and of adults who will remember the arcade games
THROUGH THE LENS
Kris Woodard’s introductory remarks included personal memories he made through the lens of a 12-year-old who was often “in
See ARCADE, Page 6
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.
While managing those businesses, he served 14 years on the McKenzie School Board. He also served on the Lane County Tourism Board and coached high school and college women’s basketball teams.
He said the most rewarding of his and his wife’s businesses, is the two faith-based residential treatment homes they own that
To the delight of those gathered, Kris’ brother, Casey Woodard,
“It’s how rapidly theses fires can move, and the unknown is where is it going to end? Where will this fire go to and how long will it last? And that is a struggle,” he said. “So, when you are fighting that fire, you’re trying to do your best to stop it, and yet the wind kicks up at 60 miles an hour and it drags it further and further behind them. That aspect of the unknown is very difficult in wildland fires. The firefighters have that stress and anxiety, and that struggle to protect is a very difficult challenge for the wildland firefighters.”
serves people who suffer with mental illness and employs many local individuals.
According to Harbick, it was very rewarding to use his self-loading log truck and dump truck to help victims of the 2020 wildfire take their burned logs to mills. He assisted many of his neighbors with cleaning up debris and doing small projects on their property.
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.
“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
Harbick’s journey to Salem as a lawmaker is motivated by significant events that happened during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I will always remember 2020 as my motivation to get involved and make a difference by running for the Legislature,” Harbick said. “That was the year when my business world, personal world,
See HARBICK, Page 6
CINDY WEELDREYER
PHOTO JEREMY C. RUARK / COTTAGE GROVE SENTINEL
JEREMY
Courtesy photo
Darin Harbick will be sworn into office as State Representative District 12 on Jan. 13.
Jeremy C. Ruark / Cottage Grove Sentinel
Bashi Ale sits at the Quarter Drop front counter explaining the details of his new business.
‘Suspected kidnapping’ leads to arrest
JEREMY C. RUARK
Cottage Grove Sentinel
The Eugene SWAT team is called in to assist in the investigation of a suspected kidnapping from a Cottage Grove business.
At approximately 12:07
a.m. Jan. 1, South Lane
9-1-1 received a report of a suspected kidnapping that had just occurred at El Tapatio Restaurant located at 725 E. Gibbs Avenue in Cottage Grove, according to Cottage Grove Police Chief Cory Chase.
Cottage Grove Police Officers were nearby and responded immediately to the location where they contacted witnesses to the incident.
“During the subsequent investigation it was reported to officers that Austin K. Waskiewicz was observed confronting his girlfriend at the south entrance to the restaurant while brandishing a firearm and demanded that she come with him,” Chase said. “After a brief argument the two left the restaurant together in their vehicle and returned to their residence at 40 Sweet Lane in Cottage Grove.”
Officers were able to confirm the location of the residence and the presence of the vehicle described by witnesses parked in front of the house.
Due to the volatile
nature of the incident and the involvement of a firearm, the Eugene Police Department was contacted in a request for mutual aid. The Eugene Police Department SWAT team responded to assist in the resolution of the incident, according to Chase.
“At about 8:30 am. Waszkiewicz was taken into custody by SWAT team members at the residence without incident,” Chase said. “The SWAT team transferred custody of Waszkiewicz to Cottage Grove Police Department officers at the scene.”
Waszkiewicz transported to the Cottage Grove Police Department while the investigation continued and later transported
to the Lane County Jail where he was booked and lodged on the above listed charges below:
• Menacing - Domestic Violence
• Unlawful use of a Weapon -Firearm
• Felon in Possession of a Firearm
• Coercion
“There were no injuries during the operation and there is no ongoing threat to the community related to this incident,” Chase said. “The Eugene Police Department, Lane County Sheriff’s Office, and Oregon State Police assisted Cottage Grove Police to bring this incident to a safe resolution.”
Two dead following murder, officer-involved shooting
C. RUARK
JEREMY
Cottage Grove Sentinel
Two people have died following a murder and an officer-involved shooting in rural Lane County.
The incident unfolded the night of Dec. 26, when Lane County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) deputies, Oregon State Police (OSP) Troopers, and Springfield Police Department (SPD) officers responded to a residence in the 95000 block of E. Five Rivers Road in Tidewater, for a report of a dispute with shots fired.
“A caller reported one
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 23
03:15: Business check, 900 block E. Main St.
03:18: Fire, 77000 block S. 6th St.
03:27: Stolen vehicle, 200 block Bluebird St.
04:42: Bike stop, Main/12th
04:47: Business check, 900 block E. Main St.
07:30: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.
08:05: Abandoned vehicle, Hwy 99/River Rd.
08:24: Business check, Walmart
08:38: Alarm, 1300 block Gateway Blvd.
09:32: Welfare check, 1500 block E. Chamberlain Ave.
10:49: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.
11:23: Agency assist, 500 block Taylor Ave.
12:31: Drug, 400 block E. Main St.
12:50: Welfare check, 1500 block E. Main St.
13:07: Theft, 900 block Row River Rd.
15:50: Business check, 1500 block E. Main St.
16:00: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.
16:25: Suspicious condition, 900 block Row River Rd.
16:50: Welfare check, 200 block Gateway Blvd.
18:08: Disturbance, 1500 block E. Main St.
19:14: Assault, 1500 block E. Main St.
19:44: Welfare check, 2100 block S. 8th St.
20:14: Fraud, 400 block E. Main St.
21:03: Trespass, 500
person was deceased,” LCSO Sgt. Tim Wallace said. “When law enforcement personnel arrived and attempted contact with people at the property, an officer-involved shooting occurred. One resident was struck by gunfire and died from their injuries. No officers were injured.”
Following the officerinvolved shooting, LCSO began searching for 55-year-old Everett Scott Fuller, considered to be a person of interest at this time. Fuller was described as “armed and dangerous.”
block E. Madison Ave.
22:33: Agency assist, E. Main/River Rd
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24
01:35: Welfare check, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.
02:11: Nuisance, 600 block Wood Ave.
05:59: Business check, 1500 block E. Main St.
06:03: Business check, 900 block Row River Rd.
07:08: Barking dog, 1900 block Neva Ct.
07:50: Disturbance, 200 block N. 12th St.
08:09: Suicide, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.
08:19: Theft, 5th/Washington
10:55: Illegal camping, 200 block N. 12th St.
10:55: Business check, Walmart
11:34: Illegal camping, 7th/Main
11:48: Info, 1500 block E. Main St.
12:05: Business check, 1500 block E. Main St.
12:33: Welfare check, 1200 block S. 13th St.
12:39: Drug, 1000 block N. 9th St.
14:29: ATL, 700 block Fairview Lp.
20:10: Suspicious subject, 1500 block E. Main St.
21:40: Business check, 1500 block Gateway Blvd.
22:23: Disturbance, 200 block S. River Rd.
23:13: Person stop, 1300 block E. Main St.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25
01:10: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.
02:31: Incomplete 911, Main/14th
02:52: Suspicious condition, 2700 block Mosby Creek Rd.
03:07: Disturbance, 200 block N. 12th St.
08:39: Fire, 500 block N. River Rd.
09:21: Business check, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.
09:26: Theft, 1500 block E. Main St.
09:33: Wanted subject, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.
09:43: Found property, 800 block E. Main St.
On the afternoon of December 27, Everett Scott Fuller turned himself in to the Lane County Sheriff’s Office. Fuller was arrested and lodged at the Lane County Jail on charges of 2nd Degree Murder.
Wallace identified the murder victim as 32-yearold Christopher Lee Clark, Jr., of Tidewater.
The person shot by law enforcement officers, and the officers, had not been identified as of press time.
The officers involved in the shooting have been placed on traumatic event leave as is standard
protocol in deadly force incidents, according to Wallace.
The investigation is being conducted by the Lane County Inter-Agency Deadly Force Investigation Team (IDFIT), pursuant to the Lane County District Attorney’s Office Deadly Force Plan under Senate Bill 111 of the 2007 Oregon Legislative Session.
IDFIT is comprised of investigators from the Oregon State Police, Lane County Sheriff’s Office, Eugene Police Department, Springfield Police
POLICE BLOTTER
09:47: Fire, 1100 block Lord Ave.
10:01: Nuisance, 400
block South 1st St.
10:21: Citizen assist, 1000
block Taylor Ave.
11:52: Welfare check, 400 block Fillmore Ave.
14:09: ATL, 600 block
Benjamin Ave.
14:16: Welfare check, 300 block Coop Ct.
14:35: ATL, 200 block South O St.
16:52: ATL, 900 block
Johnson Ave.
18:52: Business check, 900 block E. Main St.
19:39: DUII, 1500 block
Gateway Blvd.
21:11: Illegal parking, 16th/Pritchett Pl.
23:47: Disturbance, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 26
00:10: Person stop, 200 block Gateway Blvd.
00:16: Business check, 900 block E. Main St.
01:26: Burglary, 3300 block Row River Rd.
01:31: Traffic hazard, Crestivew/Whiteaker
01:55: Traffic hazard, River Rd/Woodson
02:02: Traffic hazard, River Rd/Harrison
02:19: Traffic hazard, 100 block N. Lane St.
02:22: Suspicious condition, 11th/Adams
02:26: Traffic hazard, 13th/Madison
02:37: Traffic hazard, Withycombe/Edgewater
02:40: Traffic hazard, S/ Bryant
02:45: Traffic hazard, Anthony Ave/Anthony Ct.
02:46: Traffic hazard, M/ Bryant
02:54: Suspicious condition, 900 block South R St.
03:04: Suspicious vehicle, 1300 block E. Main St.
03:09: Disturbance, 1300 block E. Main St.
04:8: Fire, 3rd/Jefferson
07:11: Abandoned vehicle, 200 block Palmer Ave.
07:44: Traffic hazard, 2200 block E. Whiteaker Ave.
08:09: Order violation, 900 block Cooper Ave.
08:24: Disorderly subject,
700 block E. Main St.
08:35: Disabled vehicle, Row River/Gateway
09:06: Disorderly subject, 800 block E. Main St.
09:13: Theft, 1100 block E. Chamberlain Ave.
09:40: Dog at large, 1700 block S. 5th St.
10:13: Bike stop, 500 block Hwy 99
10:51: Animal info, 100 block North J St.
12:16: Abandoned vehicle, 100 block S. 10th St.
12:23: Criminal mischief, 500 block Kathleen Dr.
13:21: Dog at large, Main/7th
13:30: Agency assist, 1100 block Lord Ave.
14:03: Business check, 1200 block Hwy 99
14:50: Found dog, 900 block S. River Rd.
15:02: Disorderly subject, Main/99
15:49: Info, 400 block E. Main St.
16:20: Fire, 37000 block Row River Rd.
16:31: Fraud, 900 block W. Main St.
16:45: Info, Tyler/10th
17:47: Bike stop, 9th/ Gibbs
18:01: Business check, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.
18:17: Motor vehicle crash, 1800 block Harvey Rd.
18:24: Juvenile, 900 block N. Douglas St.
19:07: Reckless driving, 6th/Taylor
20:03: Person stop, 100 block Gateway Blvd.
20:09: Fire, 800 block E. Main St.
21:23: Business check, American Market
21:56: Suspicious vehicle, 1500 block Gateway Blvd.
22:26: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.
22:36: Suspicious subject, 700 block Arthur Ave.
22:44: Alarm, 100 block Village Dr.
23:00: Trespass, 2000 block S. 8th St.
23:58: Disturbance, 7th/ Main
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27
00:36: Info, 1500 block Village Dr.
01:44: Agency assist, 700
Department, Cottage Grove Police Department, and Florence Police Department.
Details about the initial shooting and of the relationship between Clark and Fuller had not been released by authorities as of press time.
Wallace said further information concerning the case would be released by the Lane County District Attorney’s Office.
Follow developments online at cgsentinel and in the Wednesday print editions of The Sentinel.
block Bennett Creek Rd.
04:28: Prowler, 33000
block Jenkins Rd.
05:14: Suspicious condition, 600 block Arthur Ave.
05:49: Trespass, 100
block S. 16th St.
05:57: Trespass, 100
block Village Dr.
08:44: Found property, 100 block Gateway Blvd.
10:38: Fraud, 500 block Grant Ave.
11:33: Abandoned vehicle, 10th/Adams
11:50: Business check, 1200 block Hwy 99
12:00: Abandoned vehicle, 1000 block N. 11th St.
12:45: Welfare check, 1900 block W. Harrison Ave.
12:51: Hit and run, 900 block Row River Rd.
13:02: Suspicious condition, 900 block W. Main St.
13:33: Animal info, 2500 block Mosby Creek Rd.
14:13: Disturbance, 100 block Gateway Blvd.
15:14: Theft, 700 block Benjamin Ave.
17:06: Citizen assist, 400 block E. Main St.
17:29: Suicide, 1900 block W. Harrison Ave.
17:41: Harassment, 100 block Gateway Blvd.
20:23: Business check, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.
23:28: Park exclusion, 300 block S. River Rd.
23:55: Warrant service, Main/16th
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 28
01:09: Disorderly subject, 900 block Row River Rd.
03:33: Suspicious condition, 1100 block S. 4th St.
04:01: Suspicious vehicle, 270 block Row River Rd.
04:03: Business check, American Market
06:39: Suspicious subject, Whiteaker/8th
06:42: Suspicious subject, 1000 block E. Main St.
08:23: Abandoned vehicle, 100 block N. 16th St.
09:50: Repo, 500 block E. Madison Ave.
10:31: Theft, 100 block Gateway Blvd.
11:55: Citizen assist, 1100 block Lord Ave.
11:59: Warrant service, 900 block Row River Rd.
13:04: Disturbance, 100 block North P St.
13:21: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.
13:26: Traffic complaint, 1300 block S. River Rd.
13:29: Drug, 1300 block E. Main St.
13:57: Alarm, 1400 block E. Main St.
15:42: Found property, 100 block S. 10th St.
16:43: Agency assist, Hwy 99/Dugan
17:37: Disturbance, 1000 block Hwy 99
18:11: Business check, Chevron Market Express
20:47: Welfare check, 100 block Gateway Blvd.
21:48: Business check, 120 block Gateway Blvd.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29
00:03: DUII ATL, 1500 block Gateway Blvd.
00:30: Shots fired, 22nd/ Main
00:43: Nuisance, 16th/ Main
01:24: Harassment, 100 block Gateway Blvd.
05:20: Suspicious vehicle, 100 block Gateway Blvd.
07:32: Shots fired, 400 block South 1st St. 10:36: Alarm, 100 block Hwy 99
11:47: Overdose, 700 block South 1st St.
12:13: Criminal mischief 2000 block Patrick Lp.
12:24: Order violation, 800 block E. Main St.
Courtesy from the LCSO Everett Scott Fuller turned himself in to the Lane County Sheriff’s Office. Fuller was arrested and lodged at the Lane County Jail on charges of Murder in the 2nd Degree.
Courtesy photo
The Eugene Police Department SWAT team responded to assist in the resolution of the incident.
Spirit of BMD continues summer tradition
CINDY WEELDREYER
Cottage Grove Sentinel
Since 1959, the third weekend of July has been highly anticipated by locals and visitors who love meeting up with friends and family to have fun celebrating Cottage Grove’s unique and colorful history.
Last year, on July 19-20, a hastily organized tribute event celebrated the 65th anniversary of Bohemia Mining Days and has now birthed Cottage Grove’s newest heritage-focused nonprofit organization.
Spirit of Bohemia Mining Days (SBMD) is dedicated to preserving Cottage Grove’s history and fostering community engagement through the annual Bohemia Mining Days festival and year-round educational initiatives.
Promotes local history year-round
Organizers are eager to produce the 2025 celebration Thursday, July 17 through Saturday, July 19. They also plan to offer programs and events year-round to make learning about local history fun and to create a structured leadership development program for high school-age students.
NEW LEADERSHIP
Born and raised in Cottage Grove, Executive Director Matthew Hewlett reflected on his journey with the festival. In 2019, he joined the production team to celebrate BMD’s 60th anniversary with an Old West-style jail photo booth that became a favorite feature of the annual summer celebration.
“I was born at Cottage Grove Hospital in 1995, as a fourth-generation Grover,
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A household is defined as any individual or group of individuals who live together at the same address and share income and expenses. Services are not transferable, and only eligible consumers may enroll in these programs. Consumers who willfully make false statements to obtain these discounts can be punished by fine or imprisonment and can be barred from these programs.
If you live in a CenturyLink service area, visit https://www.centurylink.com/aboutus/ community/community-development/ lifeline.html for additional information about applying for these programs or call 1-800201-4099 with questions.
Hewlett said. “Though I spent some time living in Florence with my Dad, I graduated from Cottage Grove High School in 2013. My family’s deep roots in this community sparked my interest in local history and inspired my commitment to keeping our shared legacy alive.”
After stepping in to lead the festival in 2024, following the dissolution of the previous organizing entity, Hewlett said he and his team have worked tirelessly to ensure the festival’s sustainability.
“When Bohemia Mining Days, Inc. dissolved due to lack of funding and volunteers, we knew we had to act,” he said. “With the help of the Bohemia Heritage Association as our fiscal sponsor, and with past production team members stepping in to organize the tribute event to celebrate BMD’s 65th anniversary, we had an operationally and
financially successful event. We acquired key assets, introduced new initiatives, and now, we’re on track for an even better festival in 2025.”
In late 2024, Hewlett partnered with Casey Woodard to secure funding for the festival’s first full-time Executive Director position. The Woodard Family Foundation recognized the importance of this role and voted to fund it for one year. Hewlett emphasizes the new nonprofit’s mission: “Our goal is not just to preserve history but to inspire future generations to step into leadership roles and build a stronger, more connected community.”
PROGRAM INSPIRING NEXT GENERATION
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To address the challenges of declining volunteerism and enhance historical literacy among Grovers, Spirit of Bohemia Mining Days has launched community-
focused programs. They are:
Future Bohemia City Citizens: This elementary school program brings local history to life through interactive presentations and skits.
Bohemia City Leaders:
A high school program designed to inspire leadership and civic engagement, encouraging students to volunteer and explore charitable work.
Bohemia Senior Connections: Monthly visits to senior living facilities to share local history and foster connections with the older generation.
The organization is also developing The Mining Vault, an educational podcast and video series exploring the rich history of the Bohemia Mining District.
Local historian Dave Light assists with writing weekly social media posts.
FUNDING CHALLENGE, COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Running a multi-day festival of this scale is no small feat, and funding remains the organization’s biggest hurdle, according to Hewlett.
“We’ve worked hard to cut costs and rely on dedicated volunteers,” Hewlett said. “But to sustain this festival, we need more community support. If every resident of Cottage Grove contributed just $10 a year, we’d never have to question the continuation of the festival or the organization’s future.”
Donations can be made online at SpiritofBmd.com, by mail to PO Box 1333, Cottage Grove, OR, or in person at the new administrative office located at 1011 E. Main St. (across from Bohemia Park).
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Visitors to the office can also explore historical exhibits and learn more about the festival’s mission.
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Looking Glass sets Open House
CINDY WEELDREYER
Starting:Oct17 Ending:Nov.30
Cottage Grove Sentinel
After years of planning and renovating a long-vacant building, the Looking Glass Community Services staff invites supporters, stakeholders, and community leaders, to an Open House from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16.
The Open House is designed to provide a tour the new facility and to learn more about its services for at-risk youth in and around Cottage Grove.
Looking Glass is located at 620 Whiteaker Avenue.
The goal of the Rural Program is to prevent sexual exploitation and abuse of youth on the streets. Many of these youth are without basic survival aid ranging from the most basic of needs (food, clothing, and shelter) to other important needs such as hygiene care, benefits they are eligible for, education, treatment, and much more, according to the
Looking Glass administrators.
Amenities include a larger lobby, laundry machines, a commercial-grade kitchen, therapists’ offices and a meeting room.
“Beyond these new resources, we are thrilled to have a space where young people can build important life skills,” Rural Program Coordinator Jane Green said.
“We believe that providing a safe place for pro-social development and meeting basic needs gives the youth of Cottage Grove the best opportunity to find longterm stability, and we are all grateful for the privilege to work towards that goal.”
Tyler Mack is the Vice President for Marketing and Development and requests, for planning purposes, an RSVP be sent to him by email at Tyler.mack@ lookingglass.us.
See The Sentinel’s original story present in October at cgsentinel.com.
Starting:Oct.17 Ending:MidJan.
Runad1againon13th week.
Starting:Oct.17 Ending:MidJan.
Cindy Weeldreyer / Cottage Grove Sentinel
Board Member Kurt Katsura, Rural Program Supervisor Jane Green and CEO Chad Westphal at the front entrance of The Looking Glass Center in Cottage Grove.
Cindy Weeldryer / Cottage Grove Sentinel
Executive Director Matthew Hewlett demonstrates the operation of an antique camera on display in the Spirit of BMD office lobby.
Cindy Weeldryer / Cottage Grove Sentinel
Executive Director Matthew Hewlett holds a century-old law book, one of the many antique artifacts on display in the Spirit of BMD office lobby.
Patricia Ann Stuner
February 16, 1939 - December 19, 2024
Patricia Ann Stuner passed away peacefully on December 19, 2024. Born on February 16, 1939, in Roy, New Mexico. Patricia was the daughter of Vernon and Avis Foster. She grew up in a loving household alongside her siblings Virginia McCuistion, Carol Fielding, and Don Foster. In 1957, she married the love of her life, Daniel Stuner, in Lucerne Valley, California. Their union was one of unwavering devotion, lasting 67 years until Daniel’s untimely passing in January of 2022.
Patricia’s legacy is carried on by her beloved children, Blane Stuner (Wendy), Karen Gates (Frank), Rodney Stuner (Maureen), and Sharon Furrer, of Cottage Grove, Oregon. She was a proud grandmother to eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy and laughter into her life. She was preceded in death by her granddaughter Caitlian Stuner.
A resident of Cottage Grove for many years, Patricia was a nurturing soul who dedicated her life to caring for others. She worked as a daycare worker for Emerald Valley in Creswell, Oregon, and, also provided loving care as an in-home daycare provider. Her work was not just a job but a calling, as she touched the lives of many families with her
gentle and loving nature.
In her leisure time, Patricia found joy in simple pleasures. She was an avid reader, always with a book in hand. Her love for garage sales was well known, as she enjoyed the thrill of discovering treasures and antiques. Gardening was another passion, as she tended to her plants with the same care and attention she gave to her family and friends.
Patricia’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was a devoted member of the Calvary Chapel, where she found strength and fellowship. Leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Patricia’s life was a testament to the power of love and faith, and she deeply loved the Lord. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to have been touched by her compassionate spirit.
As we say goodbye to Patricia Ann Stuner, we celebrate the remarkable life she lived and the countless lives she enriched. Patricia’s journey on earth has ended, but her story continues in the hearts of those she loved.
Arrangements in the care of Smith-LundMills Funeral Chapel.
Cheryl Lynn Zumwalt
February 14, 1946- December 28, 2024
Cheryl Lynn Zumwalt, 78, of Cottage Grove, Oregon passed away December 28, 2024. Born to Earl and Juanita (Moore) Woodson, on Valentine’s Day in 1946. Cheryl’s life was filled with love from the very beginning. Cheryl’s devotion to her family was evident throughout her life. She married the love of her life, Clay Zumwalt, on May 24, 1969, in Cottage Grove, Oregon, where they recently celebrated their 41st anniversary shortly before he preceded her in death in 2010. Together, they cultivated a family rooted in closeness and joy. She leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished by her son Kent Zumwalt and his family in Cottage Grove, OR; her son Jed Zumwalt, also in Cottage Grove; her daughter Sarah Zumwalt-Adams from Creswell, OR; her brother Darrell Woodson of Pinedale, WY; two grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
and Williams Sand and Gravel revealed her exceptional organizational skills and unwavering work ethic.
Cheryl’s zest for life shone through in her various interests. An avid hunter and angler, she cherished the outdoors, especially when accompanied by her family. Cheryl enjoyed working on the farm, cultivating a garden every year to share with family and friends. Her skills extended to canine companions, with a particular talent for dog training. Traveling with her husband, crafting, sewing, and creating stained glass art allowed her to express her passionate and artistic spirit.
State issues advice to businesses about artificial intelligence
BEN BOTKIN
Oregon Capital Chronicle
In her last days in office, Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenbaum issued advice of businesses in the state aa they adapt to the growing tide of artificial intelligence.
The guidance, crafted by attorneys with the Oregon Department of Justice, informs businesses and individuals about existing laws that apply to AI, even those that have been on the books before artificial intelligence rose in prominence.
Artificial intelligence is a powerful tool, one that can rapidly transcribe or summarize reams of records or other electronic tasks. But AI poses potential threats, too, with criminals using it to scam people, for example by creating a phony AI voice to fake the voice of a kidnapped victim or a phony AI video of a celebrity endorsing a product.
“Artificial Intelligence is already changing the world, from entertainment to government to business,” Rosenblum said in a statement released recently. “But though machinelearning and AI platforms are relatively new, that doesn’t mean that these new tools operate outside existing law.”
The guidance is the latest in a series of actions in Oregon to safeguard against artificial intelligence. This session, Oregon lawmakers passed Senate Bill 1571, which requires campaigns to disclose when they use artificial intelligence to manipulate an image, video or audio, including deepfakes, to sway voters.
ing laws that apply to AI include the state’s Unlawful Trade Practices Act, Consumer Privacy Act and Equality Act. The guidance, however, is just a starting point and lawmakers will likely pass AI legislation in the years ahead.
LAWS IN OREGON
Examples how the existing law applies are:
The Unlawful Trade Practices Act already protects consumers and forbids companies from making misrepresentations to them. This means that if a company uses chatbots, for example, to communicate with its customers, that automated technology needs to provide accurate information that is not misleading.
A business also could violate the state law with an AI-generated video that appears to be a celebrity endorsing a product when the celebrity has not done so, the guidance says.
If a business uses AI to automatically set prices, it still must abide by laws against price gouging, such as during a declared emergency when essential goods like food and lodging are in demand.
plications, housing or other benefits.
Protections remain in place against that, whether it’s done by a machine or a human.
The Oregon Equality Act, for example, ensures equal access to housing and public accommodations, the guidance said. So if a company uses an AI mortgage approval system that consistently denies loans to qualified applicants from certain ethnicities or neighborhoods because of the AI system or a reliance on biased data, that could violate the law, the guidance said.
“The regulation of AI is clearly a work in progress,” Rosenblum said.
“Thus, this guidance will likely need to be updated, depending on what relevant legislation is passed in the 2025 Oregon legislative session, along with possible future changes in federal laws pertaining to AI. So, this is just a starting point for those either beginning to think about — or even well down the road of — incorporating AI into their Oregon business plans and activities.”
A proud graduate of Cottage Grove High School, Cheryl furthered her education at Lane Community College. Her professional journey as an office manager at Zumwalt
Constance Thurston
Constance Thurston born, September 9th, 1952, passed away on December 07th, 2024 from Cancer. She was a retired clinical nurse and
Words cannot fully capture the loving and kind nature of Cheryl, but those who knew her felt the warmth of her presence. She nurtured a world that was invariably brighter because of her. We honor a life lived with grace, a heart given freely, and a soul that touched many.
Arrangements are in the care of Smith-LundMills Funeral Chapel and Crematorium.
resident of Cottage Grove. Celebration of life will be held in March.
Ronald A. Buss
Ronald A. Buss, 66, of
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
Eugene Oregon passed away on December 25, 2024. Arrangements are in the care of Sunset Hills Funeral Home, Crematorium & Cemetery.
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
In 2023, Gov. Tina Kotek appointed an advisory council to guide the state’s artificial intelligence work and make recommendations.
Last year, Rosenblum and other attorneys general asked Congress to look for ways to protect children from AI, including embellished images that mimic children’s images or voices.
Rosenblum said exist-
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
Under Oregon consumer privacy laws, consumers can withdraw their consent to use their data in AI models. Consumers can also opt out of AI models that make decisions like housing and education.
AI models are essentially large data sets that can make decisions or predict outcomes based on patterns. Some fear that AI models may unfairly or inequitably deny loan ap-
https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/12/30/ oregon-attorney-generalissues-advice-to-businesseson-use-of-ai/
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.
Getty Images
Artificial intelligence is used to make so-called deep fakes, or fraudulent photos.
NEWS & VIEWS
A conversation with Mayor Candace Solesbee
RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel
The New Year will bring challenges and rewards to our community. At Cottage Grove City Hall, a newly elected council will work with Mayor Candace Solesbee to help navigate through the challenges and address residents and business operators concerns.
On Jan. 13, newly reelected Mayor Solesbee will give her State of the City Address, and four councilors will be sworn in. New Councilors Christine Hyink, Darrell Wilson and Jim Settelmeyer will take their seats on the dais. They will join re-elected Councilor Greg Irvin and Councilor Randall Lammerman, who was appointed in September to fill the Ward 2 seat vacated by Jon Stinnett. After an unsuccessful bid for mayor last November, Councilor Dana Merryday will complete the two years remaining on his four-year term.
An in-depth discussion on the City’s financial challenges for the 2025-26 budget will be a topic at its planned retreat March 8. The discussions will likely focus on funding solutions for public safety and transportation, economic development, and homelessness.
In the following conversation, Mayor Solesbee gives us insight from city hall into 2025 in Cottage Grove.
The Sentinel: What were the most difficult and challenging issues facing our city in 2025 and how did you and the city council navigate through those challenges?
Candace Solesbee: In 2024 Cottage Grove encountered several significant challenges that required careful management. Key issues included the recruitment of a new police chief, the enhancement of department staffing levels, and selection of a new city manager. Furthermore, an ongoing recall effort targeting three city councilors ultimately resulted in a successful outcome. Each of these matters presented unique complexities that necessitated thoughtful consideration and strategic planning for the future of the community.
The Sentinel: From your vantage point, what will be the main challenges facing Cottage Grove in 2025 and how, as city Mayor, will help guide our city through such challenges?
Solesbee: I am grateful to the citizens for showing increased interest in getting involved and voicing their opinions at council meetings. People are becoming more aware of how actively participating in their city
government can influence their daily lives. While I am eager to leave 2024 behind, I am excited about the incoming council leadership and city administration collaborating to improve the quality of life in Cottage Grove. This includes better parks, safer streets, addressing our housing shortage, downtown revitalization, attracting new businesses, and enhanced community events.
The Sentinel: What rewards do you take away as city Mayor?
Solesbee: As mayor, I am optimistic that the residents of Cottage Grove will support our new council and share their concerns and ideas for positive change. We have already navigated many challenging transformations successfully, and I believe that while we will always face obstacles, the new year brings fresh opportunities for our town. I have a renewed faith in what we can accomplish together.
The Sentinel is presenting a special series of reports to help our readers understand the historical context, past and current uses, and the financial impacts on six of the City of Cottage Grove’s major assets that benefit residents and visitors.
Previously published coverage reviewed the Historic Downtown District (12/7), the Community Center and Library (12/11) and the Cottage Grove Armory (12/25). Read these special reports online at cgsentinel. com. In future editions, The Sentinel hopes to provide information about Bohemia Park, Middlefield Golf Course and the Skatepark. We will also closely follow the city leaders’ discussions, and their decision, as they navigate through the budget challenges.
Join the conversation. Send your comments in a Letter to the Editor to jruark@countrymedia. net and follow this special series of reports online at cgsentinel.com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Sentinel.
Weekly Online Poll Previous Poll Results
How often do you take a walk in your neighborhood?
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY
Letters to the editor should be at most 350 words. The Cottage Grove Sentinel reserves the right to edit, condense, or reject any letter to the editor. Letters published in the Cottage Grove Sentinel will also be published online. For verification purposes, letters to the editor and guest columns must include your first and last name, city or town or residence, and phone number. Letters endorsing candidates or campaign issues must be received no later than ten days before an election. Letters written by candidates will not be accepted. Letters to the editor should be the author’s work. We strongly discourage and will attempt to weed out form letters, letters mailed to other news outlets, or letters written and edited by a third party, including but not limited to political parties. We try to restrict the printing of one submission per author per month. We do not publish anonymous letters, personal attacks, personal complaints, poetry, consumer complaints, or letters written in bad taste.
Editor’s note: The Capital Chronicle has launched a $10,000 end-of-year fundraising campaign 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, which are tax deductible. Please contribute to us if you can.
Most Oregonians in 2025 will see residential electricity rates nearly 50% higher than they were just five years ago.
The state’s Public Utilities Commission — a threeperson governor-appointed group charged with regulating the rates of privately owned utilities in Oregon — approved a nearly 10% increase in residential electricity rates for customers of Pacific Power Dec. 19 and, on Friday, Dec. 20, a 5.5% increase for residential customers of Portland General Electric, or PGE. Both rate increases were to take effect Jan. 1 and bring overall rates for residential customers of both utilities up about 50% since 2020, more than twice the rate of inflation during that same period.
The rates are lower than the companies requested: Pacific Power in September petitioned to raise rates by nearly 11% in 2025 and PGE by 7.4%.
The two companies are investor owned and collectively serve more than 1.4 million customers in Oregon. Across every kind of customer, including small and medium-size businesses and industrial users, Pacific Power’s electricity rates will rise on average by about 8.5% and PGE’s rates will rise about 6% in 2025.
“We definitely understand the frustration customers feel, and I want to assure customers of how hard we have worked to scrutinize the issues and hold utilities accountable,” commission chair Megan Decker said.
The commission reviewed 60 different issues that both companies raised to justify rate increases, according to Decker.
“We have severely reined in PGE expense growth, and we have cut something in the nature of 50% out of requests that they made,” Decker said.
Bob Jenks, director of the Citizens’ Utility Board, a watchdog group established by Oregon voters in 1984 to represent the interests of utility consumers, said
the PUC is overdue for permanent changes to how and when rate increases are approved.
“Electricity is an essential service and there is no reason why we should be pricing it like it is a luxury,” Jenks said in a statement.
The Commission rejected a proposal by the citizens’ board to cap annual residential rate increases at 10% and to move rate case hearings to April, rather than January, so utilities aren’t raising prices in the dead of winter.
Rate increases in recent years, according to the companies, have been due to rising inflation, infrastructure build outs for more clean energy generation and storage, rising costs of buying power, higher insurance costs and meeting new customer demand. Demand for PGE’s industrial customers, including new data centers and semiconductor manufacturers like Intel, is up more than 34% in the last five years, while residential demand is up 5%.
Concerned that residential customers are subsidizing growing energy needs of data centers, Oregon’s U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden in November questioned PGE CEO Maria Pope over what was behind rising prices that are leading to record power disconnections for Oregonians struggling to keep up with bills.
RECORD SHUT OFFS
Both utilities set personal records in 2024 for disconnecting customers from power for nonpayment.
From January to October, Pacific Power disconnected more than 20,000 households, up from 8,000 during the same period in 2023, according to the Citizens’ Utility Board. PGE disconnected about 32,000 customers at some point in 2024 — 4,800 more than in 2023. These record shutoffs occurred during a year when residential Pacific Power customer rates went up 11% and PGE residential rates went up 21%.
In response, the Public Utilities Commission will prohibit the companies from disconnecting low-income customers who are enrolled in bill discount programs between Jan. 1 and April 1, so people are not left without power during the coldest months of the year.
People in the lowest income level — meaning individuals making $36,800 or less annually and a four-person household with annual income of about
$71,000 or less — will be eligible for up to an 80% bill discount each month, an increase from a 60% discount previously required by the commission.
The commission will also require new large industrial customers of the utilities — such as data centers — to forecast their energy needs for the year with 95% accuracy and pay a penalty for miscalculation.
When it comes to wildfire costs, the commission will allow Pacific Power to raise rates to cover $25 million worth of restoration work following the 2020 Labor Day fires. The company had originally sought rate increases that would cover twice that amount.
The company was found liable for several of the 2020 Labor Day megafires that burned thousands of structures and took nine lives. The company has spent nearly $2.7 billion on lawsuits since, according to a recent report submitted to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. On Thursday, the federal government was added to the list of plaintiffs. The U.S. Attorney General’s Office is seeking reimbursement for costs and damages federal agencies incurred fighting the Archie Creek Fire near Roseburg in 2020. The company has used wildfire costs as a reason it’s needed to raise rates in recent years. Pacific Power is owned by PacifiCorp, a subsidiary of Warren Buffet’s Berkshire Hathaway, a multinational conglomerate. PacifiCorp is worth $10.7 billion, according to its attorneys, while the Oregon Department of Revenue and Oregon Tax Court calculate its worth more than $19 billion.
Prior to the 2020 Labor Day fires, PacifiCorp sent anywhere from $600 million to $875 million in dividends — or earnings — annually to Berkshire shareholders, according to filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/12/20/ state-regulators-approvemore-electricity-rate-hikesfor-oregonians-in-2025/ 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.
JEREMY C.
ALEX BAUMHARDT
Oregon Capital Chronicle
Courtesy photo
Cottage Grove Mayor Candace Solesbee
Flooding
Local flooding solutions
Road would be permitted to be built today. That’s likely true of many roads in Lane County built 50–60 years ago in flood-prone areas. It leaves Lane County and the residents who depend upon these roads with a seasonal challenge.
The Sentinel: What other areas of the county are at risk from such flooding and why, and are there any projects in the works to ease the flooding risks in those areas?
Ashbridge: Some other areas that experience flooding on a regular basis are Sunderman Road near
Harbick
State Representativeelect Darin Harbick ready to serve
From Page 1
From Page 1 and political world turned upside down.”
He explained, “The government overreached by telling me I had to close my restaurant and motel, which affected my business. I wasn’t allowed to sing and worship at church, which affected my personal life. I was told I couldn’t attend plays at the Hult Center or go to football games without the vaccine card, so I lost my freedoms. This made me question politics and I had enough. I researched who was making the decisions in Oregon
A
rcade Quarter Drop Arcade to open Jan. 25
From Page 1
growing up. The business is designed to offer memories to the older adults and to create new memories for the young, he said.
As to moving kids and adults away from their cell phones and computers to visit Quarter Drop, Ale said he believes people are craving for such a change.
“This offers a more social experience” he said.
“I think people are craving the chance to get out and have that social experience. It’s not just touching a screen. You have the joy sticks. You do have to engage the brain. It’s a social gathering. It is a community space for everybody, and I hope that people response to that.” Ale has been setting up his new business since July
Marcola; around Junction City and north of Santa Clara, including Lovelake Road; and Territorial Highway at Gillespie Corners. Most of those areas face the same challenges as Ricketts Road: low-lying with little natural drainage, historic wetlands, and nearby creeks or rivers.
Lane County has applied for a federal grant, through the Natural Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, to raise two bridges on Territorial Highway. If we are awarded the grant it would help with some of the flooding near Gillespie Corners. Currently, those bridges are so low they flood regularly in winter months; raising them would allow for better water flow and help keep the bridges out of the water during more typical seasonal rainfall.
and discovered it was only 91 people. I decided to stop sitting on the sidelines and get involved.”
KEY ISSUES: HOMELESSNESS
Harbick said he recognizes Legislators must support local governments and find solutions for the growing homeless crisis in the 2025 session. Substance abuse, poverty and untreated mental health conditions are the primary reasons why individuals become homeless, according to Harbick.
“The state has spent money on this problem for three years now with little to no success,” he said. “My suggestion is to provide a compassionate, educated and faith-based long-term solution to help this population regain their independence, improve their quality of life and give them hope for their future.”
Harbick said at the 2025
and noticing children and adults peeking through the arcade window while he is working.
“I’ve been working here doing social media stuff and editing videos and I am in like a fishbowl,” Ale said. “People come by and see me here. One of the most rewarding things so far has been large group of kids coming up to the window looking in with excitement. It’s really cool.”
Costs for playing the arcade games will be from 25 cents to a dollar.
“I am trying to keep it as affordable as possible,” he said.
Ale added that his business plan of posting details on social media as the business evolved has been essential.
“From the beginning, I knew going into this that when you are creating a hospitality business, you really need to focus on social media,” he said. “So, I created a social media plan, and I have been posting daily videos on
The most comprehensive tool we have for flood prevention is our system of dams and reservoirs maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Although dams can’t prevent all localized flooding, especially during periods of heavy rain, they do the lion’s share of prevention when it comes to major flood events.
The Sentinel: What are the county’s recommendations to property owners living in the flood-risk areas?
Ashbridge: It’s important for people to understand the risk to their property and homes. There is an interactive map online that shows the flood hazard parcel by parcel. It’s also important for people to understand the risk and likelihood of localized
Oregon Legislative session, he wants to advance three solutions he believes are practical in successfully reducing the number of unhoused people in Oregon.
1. Expand access to treatment programs. Currently, when an individual wants help for their addiction, they have to wait, because all the recovery centers are full with no beds available. Often, they give up and the end result for them is more time on the streets and a mental state of hopelessness.
2. Ease zoning laws. The state could incentivize policies to private developers to build more housing and ensure housing options are available for people at all income levels.
3. Encourage local partnership with local nonprofits, churches, and community organizations to
flooding on their property separate from the overall flood map. For example, is there a seasonal creek on your property that may cause issues with enough rainfall? Or do you have a natural drainage path that has become blocked by debris over time? That knowledge combined with paying attention to the weather forecast and rain amounts can help people take protective action ahead of a crisis. In addition to understanding the risk:
• Being prepared to shelter in place at home for several days if your access is cut off, but your home is safe.
• Having a household plan and go-bags in case of evacuation.
• Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. If available have a sec -
provide immediate relief to homeless individuals. For example, Eugene Mission and Teen Challenge. These nonprofits do a great job with a proven success rate and take no funds. They do not want nor have the administration staff to jump through all the red tape that goes with operating a recovery center. Let’s help these proven programs with grants, less restrictions, and incentives.
KEY ISSUES: TRANSPORTATION
Harbick said he is aware small cities need and want help with improving road infrastructure and he will, “fight for dollars to come into my district, instead of pushing all the money to Portland.”
Legislative Committees Assignment: Health Care and Behavioral Health. “My wife and I own two residential treatment
A variety of pinball machines are offered at Quarter Drop.
Instagram, TikTok and You Tube, every single day for nearly a year. I have been totally transparent with this process and because of that I have been able to foster a fairly large community of media presence. I look at that as my job number 1. Job number 2 is creating an amazing space for people to enjoy.”
Ale said his long-term strategy to be a sustaining business is strengthened by his ownership of the location and that he is currently
the sole employee.
“My biggest expense will be utilities. The electricity,” he said. “Which will probably be around $1,200 a month. Insurance is expensive too. Those are my two big overhead expense, so I look at this as a longterm foundation business in Cottage Grove. Folks can rely on it. It’s going to be here for a long time.”
Quarter Drop is scheduled to be open five days a week offering long hours to midnight on Fridays and
ondary evacuation route planned.
• If you depend on a well for drinking water, be prepared with bottled water if your well is contaminated by flood water.
• Be aware of the risk of electrocution.
• Consider flood insurance. Some properties are required to have flood insurance, but for others it is optional. Regular homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage.
There are really helpful tips for before, during and after a flood at ready.gov/ flood.
The Sentinel: Feel free to add any other comments you might have.
Ashbridge: While our Road Maintenance dispatch only received one call during this localized
homes, and I know I will be able to bring experience, expertise, and encouragement into the Mental Health crisis we all are facing,” Harbick said. He said constituents, employers and employees, have approached him about Medicaid. To keep this benefit individuals can only work so many hours. However, some individuals can work more hours but won’t because they do not want to lose their Medicaid benefits. He believes this program needs better solutions.
INVITATION FOR CITIZEN INVOLVEMENT
Harbick said he believes, now more than ever, Oregonians need to be more engaged in finding common sense solutions to existing problems that will create a better future for everyone.
He invites his constituents to contact or visit his office with their needs,
Saturdays. The arcade also will offer a full concession of retro snacks including sodas, chips, and popcorn. Murals that grace the business walls have been painted by local artist Neato.
The name Quarter Drop for his business, just fit, Ale said.
“It says everything that needs to be said. It’s the Quarter Drop. You come here and you know what to expect. You’re dropping quarters,” he said.”
Quarter Drop is set to open at 11 a.m. Jan. 25. Ale will give Day One Patches for the first 200
flooding, it’s a good time to remind people of the resource. For Countymaintained roads, people can call 541-682-6900 to report flooding on the road, downed trees, landslides, and even dead deer. It’s available 24/7 so that we can dispatch crews in an urgent situation. Reports are also closely tracked so that we can fix problems as efficiently as possible and do any necessary follow up. Lane County is responsible for more than 1,400 lane miles of road and more than 600 bridges. We rely on residents to help be our eyes on the road and report issues. Our crews are out in the field, but it’s a lot of ground to cover. We appreciate when people take the time to make reports and help us ensure we can address issues related to the roadways.
concerns, and suggestions. The Oregon 2025 Legislature begins on Jan. 21 and is scheduled to end June 29. Harbick will be sworn into office of State Representative Jan. 13 and he said he will immediately start working for District 12 and all Oregonians.
“I am honored and blessed to be one of the 91 legislators who will make laws and policies that affect all Oregonians,” he said. “Being in the Super-Minority in the House these next two years will be tough, but with your prayers, support and help we can do this together.”
Rep. Hardback may be reached at: rep.DarinHarbick@ oregonlegislature.gov, or at www.oregonlegislature. gov/Harbick, or at 503986-1412. Harbick’s mail address at the Oregon State Capitol is 900 Court St. NE Salem, Oregon 97301.
attending the opening. ABOUT QUARTER DROP Opening Day Jan. 25. Grand Opening Party July 26 HOURS OF
For more information, visit www.quarterdroparcade.com.
Jeremy C. Ruark / Cottage Grove Sentinel
Classified
LADD CONSTRUCTION, LLC New or remodel, decks, siding, windows, doors, shops, fences. 541-913-1541 ccb# 239015
Wholesale plant nursery in Cottage Grove is now hiring for the 2025 season: daytime hours, Monday through Friday. Some part-time hours also available. This is a seasonal position; work normally lasts through July. Duties include order pulling, planting and delivery driving; no CDL required. All drivers also work at the nursery several days a week. Excellent work environment and staff. If you’re looking for a fun job with interesting people, this is the place! Email resume to info@loghouseplants.com
CGS 25-100 COTTAGE GROVE MINI STORAGE 1520 HWY 99 N COTTAGE GROVE, OR 97424 AUCTION: January 25, 2025 PROMPTLY AT 11:00 A.M. COTTAGE GROVE MINI STORAGE IN ACCORDANCE WITH ORS 87.162 WILL OFFER FOR PUBLIC AUCTION THE FOLLOWING UNITS FOR NON-PAYMENT OF RENT AND OTHER FEES. 1. Kristel Cochran D-195 2. Scottie Braden A-349, A-027, A-020 3. Brayden Akins B-335 UNLESS PAYMENT IN FULL IS MADE BEFORE TIME OF AUCTION @ 1520 HWY 99 N COTTAGE GROVE, OR 97424 SEALED BIDS ON ENTIRE UNIT DUE IN OFFICE AT 11:30 A.M. “CASH ONLY” Published Jan 8th & 15th, 2025
CGS 25-101 Green Gables Mini Storage will
Eight puppies for Christmas
JEREMY C. RUARK
Cottage Grove Sentinel
December 23, two nights before Christmas, Deborah, a 2-year-old mixed- breed dog gave birth to eight healthy puppies.
Deborah was brought to Greenhill Humane Society the week before by a Good Samaritan who found her wandering alone in Oakridge days earlier.
The Good Samaritan had attempted to find her owner and brought her to the Oakridge police department first. When no owner was found, he ultimately went to Greenhill seeking help.
“At this point, going on 10 days from when she was first found, we believe she must have been abandoned,” Greenhill Humane Society’s Community Engagement Manager Kelly
Fleischmann said. “She’s such a sweet dog, and she was very pregnant. It’s hard to imagine that anyone would just abandon her.”
When she arrived at Greenhill, Deborah was visibly pregnant and in need of a bath. She was given vaccinations and a thorough medical exam including x-rays which confirmed that she was just days away from giving birth.
Greenhill staff reached out to their volunteers and foster families to find an available home for Deborah to give birth to her puppies.
Fortunately, one was found in time, and after providing Deborah with a bath, she was placed in a foster home with all the necessary supplies. Three days later, between 6:30 and 9:30 pm, she gave birth to eight
healthy puppies.
Deborah and her puppies will remain in foster care until they are fully weaned. They will all be available for adoption in approximately two months.
“This is a reminder of how important foster families are,” Fleishmann said. “They are critical to providing the best care possible.” Greenhill Humane Society is looking for more foster families”
Anyone interested in helping can find out more by calling the shelter at 541-689-1503, or visiting https://www.green-hill.org/ foster_care/ Donations may be made at https://www.green-hill. org/support. To learn more about Greenhill Humane Society, visit www.greenhill.org.
Oregon DMV warns of potential vehicle, dealership scams
JEREMY
C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel
Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicles (DMV) Services is warning Oregonians about a new scam using fake Manufacturer Certificates of Origin (MCO) to obtain titles for stolen vehicles.
An MCO is a document that certifies the original ownership of a vehicle. It’s issued by the manufacturer when a vehicle is produced and contains information like the make, model, year and vehicle identification number, according top the DMV.
“Crooks are creating fake VINs that appear to be legitimate and adding them to counterfeit Manufacturer Certificates of Origin created by either altering printed information on a genuine certificate or by creating a completely fake version downloaded from the internet,” the DMV states in an
alert. “A fake certificate often lists the manufacturer’s name and an out-of-state dealer or distributor as the first buyer.”
To determine if your VIN is legitimate, you should:
• Run the VIN through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recall site. This will show if the VIN on the certificate is one issued by the manufacturer. If no VIN is found, you will get an error message meaning the VIN was not issued by that manufacturer. This search is free.
• Research the vehicle history through the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System, a consumer protection database that provides title information from states across the country. Only use an approved National Motor Vehicle Title Information System data provider. These sites will generally
charge a nominal fee.
If you suspect the certificate or VIN is fraudulent, Oregon DMV recommends you contact the dealer that originally purchased the vehicle from the manufacturer (listed as the buyer on the back or distributor on the front of the certificate) to determine if the vehicle transaction, certificate and VIN are genuine.
If the dealer or distributor cannot confirm they purchased the vehicle from the manufacturer, the certificate is probably fake, according to the DMV alert.
“If you’re buying a vehicle from someone other than a certified dealer, always take a photo of the seller’s identification and get their contact information,”? the DMV states. “If they have another vehicle – write down or take a photo of the plate on that vehicle.”
Metro Creative Connection
“Crooks are creating fake VINs that appear to be legitimate and adding them to counterfeit Manufacturer Certificates of Origin created by either altering printed information on a genuine certificate or by creating a completely fake version downloaded from the internet,” the DMV warns.
Oregon DMV is also warning of fraudulent dealerships being set up, giving the appearance of being a legitimate certified dealer.
“The DMV website provides a look-up tool
to verify if the business is a certified dealer DMV strongly urges you to check the website before doing any business with a vehicle dealer in Oregon,” the alert states. “You should also
verify the person you are dealing with is an employee of the dealership.”
For more information, visit Oregon DMV’s dealer web page.
Cottage Grove High Sports Roundup
WRESTLING
The Lion boys wrestling squad was scheduled to participate in the King of the Hill Invitational at Pleasant Hill High School Jan. 4 and conduct SD 2 Duals Jan. 7 at Cottage Grove, The boys squad is also set to compete at the Special District #2 Duals at Sweet Home High School Jan. 11 and at the Nick Lutz Invitational at Siuslaw High School Jan. 18. The CGHS girls wrestlers were set to participate Jan. 7 at the Creswell Duals and at the at Nick
Lutz Invitational Jan. 17. See results at OSAA.org.
SWIMMING The Lions swimming teams are scheduled to host the Dual BSW Meet at Warren H. Daughter Aquatic Center in Cottage Grove Jan. 17. The boys have nine meets this season ending at Districts Feb. 15. The girls have an 8-meet scheduled, ending Feb. 15 at Districts.
See game results at OSAA.org.
Courtesy photo
Deborah and her pups.