CGS911 by C.M.I.

Summer tourism surges in Co age Grove

JEREMY C. RUARK

Cottage Grove Sentinel

It’s big. It continues to be big.” Cottage Grove Chamber of Commerce President Cameron Reiten said in describing the impact of the city’s summer tourism season.

Reiten said multiple community and region summer events,

such as KNND’S Rock, N’ Roll Rumble vintage auto show and the annual Western Oregon Exposition Heritage Fair, and the Concerts in the Park series, helped to boost the city’s tourists ﬁgures this summer.

“From working and living downtown, and constantly strolling around downtown, we

continue to be a place that a lot of people really like to come and see what we are all about,” he said.

“The covered bridges, the lakes. I can’t say enough about how vibrant of a downtown district we have compared to other places, especially some of these other timber communities. We are so blessed for the downtown that we

WHO WE ARE

From farmer to coffee shop owner

JEREMY C. RUARK

Cottage Grove Sentinel

Erika Peterson and her business partner Urban Moore opened Slabtown Coffee June 18 along Main Street in Cottage Grove’s Old Town District.

It is nestled inside what was a former antique store.

have.”

Even summer regional wildfires brought firefighters to Cottage Grove to purchase food, supplies and shelter, helping to boost summer profits local businesses.

“We are so blessed for the downtown that we have.”

Cameron Reiten, Cottage Grove Chamber of Commerce President TOURISM cont. on page 4

“We found out that this was available, and we actually brought the inventory and had to opportunity to make it work,” she said.

The antiques are part of Peterson’s booth at a shop across the street from Slabtown.

Peterson estimated the investment of such a coffee shop business, with equipment, is approximately $75,000.

Peterson designed the shop that includes a specialized small counter,

chairs, tables, even a coach in the back of the shop.

Cakes from Sweet Life Patisserie in Eugene, ice cream from Prince Pucklers of Eugene, mufﬁns, and cookies from Sugar Mouse Bakery of Cottage Grove, and coffee from Equator Coffee Company in Eugene, are on display

COFFEE SHOP cont. on page 7

CleanLane project moves closer to reality

CINDY WEELDREYER

Cottage Grove Sentinel

Lane County’s controversial Integrated Materials & Energy Recovery Facility (IMERF), is moved forward, despite a signiﬁcant amount of public input calling for the $150 million dollar project to be placed before voters in May 2025.

East Lane Commissioner Heather Buch, North Eugene Commissioner Pat Farr, and South Eugene Commissioner Laurie Trieger voted yes. Springﬁeld Commissioner David Loveall and West Lane Commissioner Ryan Ceniga voted no, during a public session Aug. 20, to issue $35 million in bonds to ﬁnance the project.

Now rebranded as CleanLane Resource Recovery Facility, county ofﬁcials said the innovative

public/private partnership’s long-term benefits will far outweigh the construction costs of creating a stateof-the-art waste sorting system that uses robotics and artificial intelligence in a more environmentally friendly way. According to county officials, its 25-year contract with Bulk Handling Systems (BHS), a Eugene manufacturing company, extends the life of the landfill, reduces methane escaping into the atmosphere, increases recycling, generates biogas for Northwest Natural, and creates local, sustainable economic development and jobs. They also value the more than 30-year partnership with the Emerald People’s Utility District. They said both partnerships CLEANLANE cont. on page 7

Pedestrian struck, killed in highway crash

JEREMY C. RUARK

Cottage Grove Sentinel

Oregon State Police (OSP) report a Creswell man was killed after being struck by a vehicle along Highway 99.

OSP troopers responded to a reported crash involving a vehicle and a pedestrian at 10:34 p.m. Friday, Aug. 30, on Highway 99 near milepost 10 in Lane County.

OSP said the preliminary investigation indicated a pedestrian, 39-yearold David Paul Burns of Creswell, was walking northbound on Highway 99 in the travel lane when

he was struck by a black Toyota Tundra, operated by 62-year-old Gary Ralph Clark, of Creswell. Burns was declared deceased at the scene, according to the OSP report. Clark was not injured and was cooperating with the investigation.

The highway was impacted for approximately three hours for the onscene investigation.

South Lane EMS, Lane County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce, Lane County Medical Examiner’s Ofﬁce, and the Oregon Department of Transportation, assisted OSP in the crash investigation.

Creswell

JEREMY C. RUARK

Cottage Grove Sentinel

Lane County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce (LCSO) deputies and detectives launched a search for a missing homeowner following a house ﬁre in Creswell.

At about 7:20 a.m. Sept. 3, LCSO deputies responded to a residence in the 33800 block of E. River Drive in Creswell, after South Lane Fire & Rescue advised the building was fully engulfed in ﬂames.

“A car belonging to the resident, Nicholas Rex Snyder, 32, was seen leaving the area around the time the blaze started,” LCSO Sgt. Timothy Wallace said.

The vehicle that left the scene of the ﬁre is a gray 2016 Toyota Corolla, with Oregon license plate 311MXY.

Deputies had been at the residence Monday night, Sept. 2, for a disturbance after several neighbors called stating that Snyder was yelling and making noise, according to Wallace.

“Deputies attempted to

home engulfed in ﬂames, smoke

contact Snyder,” Wallace said. “They did not receive a response from the house, and it was unknown if he was still at the location.

The cause of the ﬁre was still under investigation as of Sept. 6. Deputies and detectives are investigating the incident, with assistance from the State Fire Marshal.

“The home was pretty much destroyed by the ﬁre,” Wallace said. Following the ﬁre, LCSO began searching for Snyder.

“We just want to locate him to make sure he is OK,” Wallace said.

Anyone with information about Snyder’s whereabouts should avoid approaching or contacting him and is asked to call Lane County Dispatch at 541-682-4141.

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.

POLICE

COTTAGE GROVE

MONDAY, AUGUST 26

00:00: Suspicious condition, 1200 block Hwy 99

00:06: Suspicious vehicle, 100 block S. 10th St.

06:06: Abandoned vehicle, 200 block N. Douglas St.

06:33: Suspicious subject, 900 block E. Main St.

06:52: Alarm, 1300 block S. River Rd.

07:11: Abandoned vehicle, 200 block Davidson Ave.

07:18: Disorderly subject, Tyler/Gateway

08:07: Citizen assist, 1400 block S. 8th St.

08:13: Criminal mischief, 1400 block S. 8th St.

08:43: Trespass, 200 block N. Douglas St.

09:08: Trespass, 200 block N. 12th St.

10:29: Unlawful entry into motor vehicle, 800 block Gateway Blvd.

10:33: Trespass, 400 block N. Douglas St.

10:46: Theft, 900 block W. Main St.

11:03: Found property, 400 block N. Douglas St.

11:12: Civil, 1000 block S. 4th St.

12:23: Suspicious condition, 700 block E. Main St.

12:52: Disorderly subject, 700 block Gibbs Ave.

13:11: Abandoned vehicle, E. Chamberlain/Douglas

15:06: Trespass, 400 block N. Douglas St.

15:50: Disorderly subject, 200 block N. 12th St.

19:51: Trespass, 100 block Village Dr.

19:52: Illegal camping, 1800 block Harvey Rd.

21:23: Warrant service, Gibbs/10th

TUESDAY, AUGUST 27

07:03: Abandoned vehicle, 200 block Davidson Ave.

08:10: Fraud, 1500 block Jason Lee Ave.

09:13: Welfare check, 100 block S. 10th St.

09:33: Abandoned vehicle, Davidson/Palmer

10:38: Illegal parking, 200 block Buttercup Lp.

11:38: Animal info, 100 block N. 8th St.

12:04: Found dog, 200 block N. 12th St.

12:09: Found property, 400 block N. 14th St.

12:45: Mental, 1600 block Ash Ave.

13:30: Vicious dog, 1300 block Jefferson Ave.

15:19: Dog at large, Harrison/99

15:59: Business check, 1200 block E. Main St.

16:18: Found drugs, 1400 block E. Main St.

16:35: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.

16:42: Trespass, 1500 block E. Main St.

17:55: Trespass, 200 block N. 12th St.

18:26: Alarm, 1500 block S. 4th St.

19:55: Fire, Homeless camp, Hwy 99

21:13: Business check, 100 block N. 9th St.

21:40: Alarm, 100 block Gateway Blvd.

22:15: Disturbance, 1500 block E. Main St.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28

00:54: Agency assist, 1600 block Pritchett Pl.

02:41: Suspicious subject, 100 block Gateway Blvd.

03:14: Suspicious vehicle, 700 block Row River Rd.

03:29: Illegal camping, 400 block N. Douglas St.

07:30: Trespass, 1100 block E. Main St.

08:22: Trespass, 600 block E. Washington Ave.

08:24: Illegal camping, 200 block Gateway Blvd.

08:40: Criminal Mischief, N. Lane/Pennoyer

09:33: Welfare check, 22nd/Main

09:36: Barking dog, Taylor/4th

10:12: Welfare check, 100 block N. 7th St.

11:35: Illegal parking, 3rd/Madison

13:22: Illegal camping, N. Douglas/Vincent Pl

13:29: Fire, Taylor/Gateway

13:52: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.

13:59: Welfare check, 600 block E. Harrison Ave.

14:21: Info, 200 block N. 10th St.

14:57: Suspicious condition, 200 block Davidson Ave.

15:14: Trespass, 900 block N. Douglas St.

16:48: Incomplete 911, 1000 block Polk Ave.

17:14: Illegal camping, 400 block N. Douglas St.

17:38: Theft, 900 block W. Main St.

18:17: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.

18:22: Runaway juvenile, 800 block N. Douglas St.

18:46: Welfare check, 6th/Taylor

19:20: Welfare check, 100 block N. P St.

19:34: Agency assist, 1800 block S. 11th St.

20:02: Alarm, 1200 block S. River Rd.

20:11: Nuisance, Benjamin/8th

20:58: Welfare check, 100 block N. P St.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 29

01:33: Theft, 800 block N. Douglas St.

02:06: Suspicious subject, 200 block Gateway Blvd.

02:10: Welfare check, 1100 block E. Chamberlain Ave.

02:58: Suspicious condition, P/Birch

05:51: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.

06:03: Illegal camping, 300 block N. Douglas St.

06:41: Repo, 700 block S. 3rd St.

10:33: Suspicious subject, Pritchett Pl/Curry Ave.

11:02: Illegal camping, 300 block S. River Rd.

12:29: Suspicious subject, 400 block N. Douglas St.

12:33: Fraud, 1900 block S. 8th St.

12:43: Theft, 200 block Gateway Blvd.

12:52: Welfare check, 100 block Gateway Blvd.

13:25: Disturbance, 700 block Row River Rd.

13:51: Abandoned vehicle, Bryant Ct/Bryant Ave.

14:20: Abandoned vehicle, Q/Main

14:46: Welfare check, 100 block N. P St.

15:02: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.

15:32: Trespass, 200 block Gateway Blvd.

15:44: Fraud, 1400 block Bryant Ave.

15:59: Suspicious condition, 1300 block Pennoyer Ave.

16:38: Motor vehicle crash, 1500 block Gateway Blvd.

17:27: Child abuse, 400 block N. Douglas St.

17:41: Animal info, 900 block Row River Rd.

17:42: Theft, 900 block Row River Rd.

17:52: Illegal parking, 1400 block Edison Ave.

20:05: Alarm, 100 block Hwy 99

20:33: Welfare check, 1000 block S. 10th St.

22:01: Disturbance, 700 block Row River Rd.

23:44: Suspicious condition, 700 block E. Main St.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 30

01:29: Alarm, 700 block Row River Rd.

01:31: Alarm, 100 block S. 5th St.

02:31: Juvenile, 200 block N. 9th St.

04:29: Suspicious vehicle, 700 block Hwy 99

04:51: Trespass, 1100 block Hwy 99

05:05: Alarm, 3300 block Row River Rd.

07:49: Suspicious vehicle, 10th/Madison

08:11: Suspicious vehicle, 6th/Latham

08:46: Trespass, 100 block N. 7th St.

08:48: Trespass, 1200 block E. Madison Ave.

09:05: Animal info, 100 block Palmer Ave.

09:07: Found property, 100 block Village Dr.

09:24: Wanted subject, 1500 block E. Main St.

09:36: Abandoned vehicle, Hwy 99/Pennoyer

11:07: Suspicious condition, 200 block Gateway Blvd.

11:58: Illegal camping, 3200 block Row River Rd.

12:39: Motor vehicle crash, Gateway/Oswald West

12:58: Theft, 800 block W. Main St.

13:30: Ambulance, 1500 block E. Main St.

13:48: Motor vehicle crash, Row River Rd/Gateway Blvd.

14:21: Welfare check, 200 block Davidson Ave.

14:28: Child abuse, 1700 block E. Washington Ave.

16:51: Criminal mischief, 1300 block Pennoyer Ave.

17:02: Disorderly subject, 900 block E. Main St.

17:52: Theft, 700 block E. Gibbs Ave.

18:42: Motor vehicle crash, 600 block E. Jefferson Ave.

19:07: Fire, 1000 block E. Main St.

19:18: Found dog, 1100 block S. 4th St.

19:42: Illegal parking, 1400 block N. Douglas St.

20:03: Suspicious subject, 100 block Village Dr.

20:20: Welfare check, 100 block S. 10th St.

20:55: Alarm, 100 block Palmer Ave.

21:18: Business check, 2700 block Row River Rd. 22:18: Citizen assist, 1200 block Ostrander Ln.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 31

00:45: Citizen assist, 400 block E. Main St.

01:00: Alarm, 100 block Hwy 99

01:56: Alarm, 1900 block S. 8th St.

03:35: Ambulance, 500 block S. 15th St.

03:44: Assault, 1500 block Village Dr.

07:10: Disturbance, 1100 block Ash Ave.

09:22: Alarm, 1100 block Ostrander Ln.

09:29: Abandoned vehicle, Palmer/Davison

10:10: Welfare check, 100 block North I St.

10:12: Warrant service, 1700 block E. Main St.

10:26: Nuisance, 1500 block Harvey Ln.

10:31: Dog at large, E. Washington/17th St.

10:52: Criminal mischief, 1300 block Pennoyer Ave.

13:25: Info, 700 block E. Gibbs Ave.

15:33: Animal info, 100 block N. J St.

15:38: Fire, 900 block Row River Rd.

15:44: Wanted subject, N/Ash

17:27: Abandoned vehicle, Palmer/Davidson

17:52: Fraud, 1400 block Gateway Blvd.

17:57: Welfare check, 90 block Row River Rd.

19:04: Ambulance, 100 block N. 9th St.

20:31: Wanted subject, 1500 block E. Main St.

20:46: Agency assist, 1800 block W. Main St.

21:25: Hit and run, 800 block E. Whiteaker Ave.

23:01: Assault, 100 block N. 9th St.

23:08: Incomplete 911, 500 block E. Madison Ave.

23:25: Barking dog, 500 block N. River Rd.

23:58: Disorderly subject, 500 block E. Madison Ave. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

01:39: Barking dog, Q/Ash

01:55: Disturbance, 600 block E. Jefferson Ave.

03:42: Suspicious condition, 1600 block E. Grover Ave.

03:47: Disorderly subject, 800 block Gateway Blvd.

05:04: Suspicious subject, 400 block E. Main St.

Suspicious vehicle,

Illegal camping, 1000 block E. Main St.

09:04: Warrant service, Hwy 99/Harrison

12:19: Criminal mischief, 100 block Gateway Blvd.

12:56: Welfare check,

observed to join “The Worldwide Pause for Peace.”

“Many people in town seem anxious to ﬁnd a way that they can participate in the process of Peace,” according to a release from the Cottage Grove Peace Through Unity committee. “It is the committee’s hope that this event will inspire and facili-

Farewell to the Village Green

SUBMITTED

Cottage Grove Historical Society in coordination with the Cottage Grove Genealogical Society, presents Farewell to the Village Green!

This is an Open Forum, co-hosted by Kris and Casey Woodard and facilitated by Casey Woodard, for members of the community to share memories of the Village Green Motor Hotel. The event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, September 21, in the Shepherd Room at the Cottage Grove Library and Community Center, 700 East Gibbs Avenue in Cottage Grove.

This is not a lecture, buy instead a facilitated open forum to share memories! Kris Woodard will have a few memories of his own to share.

Don’t miss this opportunity to help our community bring closure to a bygone era!

tate connections in the community.”

Organizations involved with ways to live and work in peace are invited to contact the committee about the possibility of setting up information tables for the event.

If you would like to participate, call Ananda at 541-285-7329. JEREMY C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel CINDY WEELDREYER Cottage Grove Sentinel

The Sentinel is always searching for photos that illustrate Life in Cottage Grove. Reporter Cindy Weeldreyer found this view of a colorful sunrise

Sharon Elaine Bush

March 9, 1928 - August 23, 2024

Sharon Elaine Bush, 96, passed away peacefully at home on August 23, 2024, in Cottage Grove, Oregon. Born on March 9, 1928, in Battle Creek, Iowa, to Verne and Ella (Warnock) Hoyer.

Sharon’s journey began in the heart of Iowa, but her story unfolded in Cottage Grove, Oregon, where she graduated from Cottage Grove High School. It was there she married the love of her life, Bruce M. Bush, on March 21, 1947. Together, they enjoyed the joy of raising a family.

Sharon’s professional life was marked by dedication and excellence. At the young age of 18, she embarked on a career in accounting as an income tax preparer. Her commitment to her work never wavered, and she continued to serve her clients until her passing at the age of 96. Sharon’s expertise and professionalism were recognized through numerous business awards, reflecting her significant contributions to her field.

Beyond her work, Sharon was an active participant in various organizations, including the OSTC, OAIA, NSPA, Cottage Grove Elks Lodge, The Soroptimist Club, and the Cottage Grove Moose Lodge.

TOURISM cont. from page 1

What didn’t happen this summer was also encouraging for downtown businesses along Main Street.

The city’s planned multimillion dollar Main Street renovation project will include improvements to the street, sidewalks, alleys and water, sewer, and storm infrastructure will be upgraded. Reiten said business owners are concerned about the impact of such a project and were relieved that that work had not been scheduled for the summer months, a busy opportunity time for local businesses.

Reiten did acknowledged that more has to be done for the downtown area to enhance business and visitor opportunity.

“There are empty buildings in Cottage Grove, “but there is growth happening, there is change, and I think we have a very bright future ahead of us,” he said. According to Reiten, Cottage Grove’s economic base has shifted from once a mining and timber community to a city offering a mix of timber, manufacturing, specialized businesses, specialized shops, restaurants, and a city with scenic settings and a depth of history.

“We’d all like to see more family wage jobs come to the community, but the fact is the workforce has changed over the last several years since the COVID pandemic,” he said.” We have a lot of

Her involvement in these associations underscored her commitment to service and community engagement.

Sharon’s personal interests were varied. She found joy in embroidering, immersing herself in books and exploring the world through travel.

Sharon’s legacy is carried on by her loving family: daughters Sue Parks, Nancy Cameron, Dana Pech, and Shari Wanderscheid; brother Lowry Hoyer; her 12 grandchildren; and 14 greatgrandchildren. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband Bruce, her sons Melvin and Dale, and her brother Ivan.

Her memory will be treasured by all who knew her, and her influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.

There will be a visitation Thursday, September 12, 2024, from 4-5PM and a funeral service held Friday, September 13, 2024, at 9:00 AM at Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel in Cottage Grove.

A private family interment will be held at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon.

folks here who work in Eugene and perhaps work remotely, he said.

Beyond working to attract more visitors to Cottage Grove, Reiten said he’s commented to “casting a wider net” to bring more locals to local businesses.

“There is almost 11,000 of us that live in the community already and then you take those that live in the rural areas within just a few miles of us, it’s amazing how many people I come across on a regular bases who have never visited downtown and don’t know about the restaurants and the gift shops that we have, the fact that there is a radio station, and whatever it is that they might be looking for,” he said. “I am one that wants to exploit that to the max.”

Reiten said the city has turned a corner in its efforts to deal with homelessness, citing the city’s cleanup of the two homeless camps at 12th Street and Douglas Street.

Planning is already underway for Halloween and Christmas events in Cottage Grove to help engage the community and to enhance overall business at local shops, restaurants and lodging facilities.

While the Cottage Grove Chamber of Commerce’s specific summer visitor numbers were not available at press time, Travel Oregon released a report in May that shows the historic visitor dollars and cents impacts in Lane County and statewide.

BY THE NUMBERS

Key points from the Travel Oregon report about Lane County include:

• $1.07 billion dollars spent by visitors coming into Lane County.

• 10,440 people employed in the hospitality industry and $334 million in earnings from these jobs.

• 3.4 million overnight visitors – this aggregates visitor staying in commercial accommodations, private homes and campgrounds.

The report finds that the amount of money spent directly on travel in 2023 in Oregon rose to a record-high $14 billion, an increase of 0.6% year over year. The travel and tourism industry created 2,180 new jobs in 2023, bringing total industry employment to 118,500, a number not seen since the pandemic caused the loss of 25,000 travel and hospitality jobs across the state. The food service industry saw the largest increase in 2023 visitor spending at $197 million.

Residents of Oregon accounted for about 36% of visitor spending in Oregon in 2023. U.S. residents of states other than Oregon accounted for approximately 59% while international visitors accounted for approximately 4% of travel spending in the state, according to the Travel Oregon report.

John Orange Bellamy

9/28/1926 - 7/19/2024

John Orange Bellamy, a cherished family man, respected veteran, and skilled craftsman, passed away on July 19, 2024, in Cottage Grove, Oregon. John was born on September 28, 1926, in Alder, Washington, to Claude and Pheobe (Stoner) Bellamy.

John proudly served his country as a paratrooper in the Army’s 11th Airborne Division during World War II from 1944-1945. His bravery and dedication were recognized with numerous medals, including the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, Army of Occupation Medal (Japan), Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Philippine Liberation Service Medal with one bronze star. Following his military service, he built a career as a plywood foreman.

John married his beloved wife, Joyce Lenore Vanderventer on August 1, 1949. John and Joyce raised and loved their 4 children, Bonnie, Jack, Teresa, and Tim.

An active member of the Creswell Church of Christ Assembly of God, John’s faith was an integral part of his life. He had a love for the outdoors which included fishing and hunting. John also found joy in rebuilding gas engines, a hobby that showcased his handy and inventive spirit.

John is survived by his sons; Jack (Kathy)

Bellamy of Creswell, OR, and Tim (Cindy) Bellamy of Creswell, OR; sister; Mable of Olympia, WA; 7 grandchildren; 8 greatgrandchildren. John is preceded in death by his parents, wife Joyce Lenore, daughter Bonnie Davis, daughter Teresa Garboden, granddaughter Jaclyn, and grandson Michael.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Saturday, September 28th at 12:30pm at 31850 Lynx Hollow Rd, Creswell, OR, 97426. Arrangements in the care of Smith-LundMills Funeral Chapel and Crematorium.

Herbert D. Ball

10/28/1928 - 8/15/2024

Herbert Dean Ball, PhD, died of heart failure & kidney cancer on August 15, 2024, at The Pete Moore Hospice House. It is with a touch of Herbert’s signature wit that we share his obituary, which he meticulously crafted himself before passing. Known for his remarkable writing talent and thoughtful insights, Herbert was asked by his family to pen his own farewell message.

The old reprobate was born at 1:30 pm, CST on Sunday, October 28, 1928, in Osceola, Nebraska to Guy F. and Nettie Malek Ball, the fifth child of seven. Cork grew up during the Depression and WWII and was graduated from Osceola high school in 1946, ranked academically 15th out of a class of 21. Thus, he claimed that he was the smartest of the dummies.

Herb was sworn into the U. S. Army on July 26, 1946, at Ft. Omaha in Nebraska, frittered away a year of that enrollment in Occupied Japan, earning two medals, and was honorably discharged on November 28, 1947, at Camp Stoneman in California. His sole purpose in enlisting was to take advantage of the G. I. Bill to attend college. He enrolled at Cornhusker U for the Spring semester in 1948. His high school preparation in math and science was pitiful, so he struggled mightily with some make-up course work in the first semester and in regular course work for the next two years. But his native mental capability finally showed through and in 1952 he was awarded the Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, being the first member of his family (and, only the second member of his high school class) to earn a college degree.

He then wasted a few years working on a research project for the Nebraska Highway Department. In 1955, he returned to the U. of N. and enrolled in the Mechanical Engineering program. After one semester, one of the ME professors decided that Herb was destined for a higher level of learning and he started on the master’s program, earning the degree in 1958. Doing some part time teaching during this period, he found his true calling. So, in September 1958, it was on to Manhattan, Kansas to accept an appointment as a full-time Instructor and to enroll in the newly approved doctoral program in Mechanical Engineering at Kansas State University. He zipped through the required course work, including 18 credit-hours of Advanced Math, earning top grades all the way (became known there as “The brain”). But he didn’t do very well at

all on his research. In about 1970 or so, he and Virginia again made noises about cohabituating. Well, he plunged into the research, finished it up, produced a superb dissertation document. He passed the Oral exam in November 1971, and was awarded the degree, Doctor of Philosophy in 1972. Virginia and Herb were married on March 27, 1972, bought a house, began a life of happiness and joy (and just a bit of squabbling). Well, Herb brought a whole lot of research and consulting money into the Department, directed a bunch of graduate students, introduced several new energy courses, published a few dozen papers, wrote two books and progressed up the ladder to Professor. After a young life of slovenly scholarship, smoking and swearing, Herb was more than a little proud of having earned a doctoral degree and achieving a full professorship in a quite difficult field. But the shadows started growing dark in the late 1980’s, and early retirement was beginning to look attractive. The classroom teaching was always a joy and was rewarding. But the politics involved in the constant search of and the application for research monies, the thankless labor of directing graduate students and the eternal writing and publishing of papers just wore him out. The “publish or perish” syndrome had been replaced by “bring in money AND publish or perish.” Virginia and Herb discussed it at length and January 17, 1991, was his last day on the job. After many, many years of the Nebraska/Kansas weather, we decided to seek a milder clime. We ended up in the Willamette Valley, on an acreage on Cottage Grove Lake. We devoted many years volunteering and in holding positions in service organizations: Kiwanis; volunteer at elementary schools; founding member of the Family Relief Nursery; Senior & Disabled Services; SLS board.

Herb is proceeded in death by his wife, Virginia; both parents, three sisters and two brothers. He is survived by a sister Sally Honke of Omaha, NE, daughter AJ Ball of Cottage Grove, and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial gathering will be held at Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel on Saturday, September 21, 2024, between 1–3 p.m. Memorial gifts may be donated in Herb’s memory to The Pete Moore Hospice House.

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

NEWS & VIEWS

The misplaced priorities of political fundraising

NATALIE WOOD Sentinel Guest Column

In an era when millions struggle to make ends meet, the staggering sums raised for political campaigns stand as a stark reminder of our misaligned priorities. Recent election cycles have seen billions of dollars poured into candidate coffers, while poverty continues to grip communities across the nation.

Consider the numbers:

In this year’s election, candidates will spend a projected $10 billion for ads alone. Meanwhile, more than 37 million Americans live below the poverty line, facing daily challenges to secure food, housing and health care.

This disparity raises a crucial question: What if even a fraction of these campaign funds were redirected to addressing pressing social needs?

The potential impact is profound:

• Housing: No family

should be sleeping on the streets — but they are. More than a million Americans experience homelessness on any given night. Campaign billions could put roofs over their heads.

• Education: No child should be denied a quality education because of their zip code — but they are. Millions of students attend underfunded schools. Political war chests could form thousands of minds.

• Health care: No one should die from treatable illnesses — but they do. Tens of thousands of Americans perish yearly because of a lack of health coverage. Campaign fortunes could save countless lives.

• Jobs: No hardworking individual should live in poverty — but they do. More than 37 million Americans live below the poverty line. Election funds could create pathways to digniﬁed, living-wage employment.

• Infrastructure: No community should lack basic services in 21st

century America — but they do. Millions live without reliable internet, safe roads, or clean water. Political millions could rebuild forgotten towns and neighborhoods.

• Food Security: No child should go to bed hungry — but they do. More than 9 million children in the U.S. face food insecurity. The price of a few campaign ads could ﬁll their plates for months.

These facts highlight the stark contrast between campaign spending and pressing social needs, emphasizing the human cost of our current priorities.

The absence of widespread outrage over this misallocation of resources is puzzling. Perhaps it’s due to the normalization of exorbitant campaign spending, or a sense of powerlessness in the face of entrenched political systems.

However, there are signs of growing discontent. Grassroots movements advocating for cam-

EDITORIAL CARTOON

paign ﬁnance reform and increased focus on social issues are gaining traction. Some politicians have made a point of rejecting large donations from political action committees and running on smaller-dollar contributions.

As citizens, we must demand better. We should challenge candidates to justify their fundraising in light of pressing social needs. We should support reforms that limit campaign spending and amplify the voice of ordi-

nary voters over wealthy donors.

Ultimately, a republic that allows vast sums to be spent on political theater while neglecting the basic needs of its citizens is a republic in crisis. It’s time to realign our priorities and invest in the wellbeing of all members of society, not just attempt to influence those seeking office. If you believe in policy for fighting poverty, give some money to candidates who support that, but also give directly to organizations

that do the work. The funds spent on campaigns could transform lives and communities. The real question is: Do we have the collective will to make it happen?

Natalie Wood is the executive director of Catholic Charities of Oregon. Catholic Charities of Oregon may be reached at 2740 SE Powell Blvd. Portland, Oregon, or at 503-231-4866.

Caution in latest state revenue, economic forecast

JEREMY

C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel

Oregonians can expect to see a nearly $1 billion tax credit, or kicker, in 2026, according to state economists.

The kicker tax credit goes into effect when the actual state revenue exceeds the forecasted revenue by at least 2%. An amount is then returned to the taxpayers through a credit on their tax returns.

The latest Oregon quarterly revenue and economic forecast released Aug. 28, shows the state legislature will have millions more in revenue.

“Available resources for the General Fund in the current 2023-25 biennium are raised by $676 million

(+2.0%) compared to the prior forecast,” the economists state in their report, which illustrates continued economic stability, but also caution. “While imminent recession fears appear misplaced, the longer high interest rates remain, the probably of recession rises as economic growth slows.”

The following is the Oregon Revenue and Economic Forecast Executive Summary from the Oregon Ofﬁce of Economic Analysis.

Executive Summary September 2024

The economy has transitioned out of the inﬂationary economic boom and into what will hopefully become a sustained expansion.

So far, the Federal Reserve appears to be threading the needle. High interest rates were needed when inﬂation was running near double-digit rates,

THE FIRST AMENDMENT

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

WHERE TO COMMENT

President Joseph Biden

The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Washington, D.C. 20500

Comments: 202-456-1111

Switchboard: 202-456-1414 TTY/TDD: 202-456-6213 www.whitehouse.gov

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek 900 Court St., Suite 254 Salem, Ore. 97301-4047 503-378-4582 www.oregon.gov/gov

U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden

202-224-5244 | 541-431-0229 www.wyden.senate.gov

U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley 202-224-3753 | 541-465-6750 www.merkley.senate.gov

U.S. Rep. Val Hoyle (4th Dist.) 202-225-6416 www.hoyle.house.gov

State Sen. Dick Anderson (Dist. 5) 503-986-1705 Email: Sen.DickAnderson@ oregonlegislature.gov

State Rep. Cedric Hayden (Dist. 7) 503-986-1407 rep.cedrichayden@ state.or.us

Lane County Dist. 5 Commissioner Heather Buch 541-682-4203 Heather.Buch@lane countyorg. gov

SUPERVISORY PERSONNEL

DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS Joe Warren — jwarren@countrymedia.net

DIRECTOR OF REVENUE Frank Perea II — fperea@countrymedia.net

EDITOR Jeremy C. Ruark — jruark@countrymedia.net

Cottage Grove Sentinel 1498 E. Main Street, STE 104 • PO Box 35 Cottage Grove, OR 97424 Phone: 541-649-1616 www.cgsentinel.com

SUBSCRIPTION

but no longer. The key will be when, and how quickly the Fed adjusts course. Expectations are interest rate cuts will begin next month. This should stabilize and revive rate-sensitive parts of the economy in the year ahead.

The labor market is expected to improve as well following the past year where slower hiring has led to a rising unemployment rate, despite layoffs remaining low. While imminent recession fears appear misplaced, the longer high interest rates remain, the probably of recession rises as economic growth slows.

Getting a read on the current state of Oregon’s economy is challenging. Over the entire cycle to date, Oregon’s economic performance has been solid. Employment gains, income growth, and population change are all roughly in the middle of the pack across all states, but a bit below the typical state. Top 15 productivity gains have helped overall growth. However, in recent months withholdings and job gains have picked up. The number of personal income tax returns ﬁled and processed so far this year has increased.

These data could be the ﬁrst indication that Oregon’s patterns of growth have shifted out of the pandemic era lull,

and back toward something more like the typical expansion. However, they could also be more noise than signal. Only time will tell. For now, the economic forecast remains essential-

ly unchanged compared to recent outlooks. These green shoots of stronger gains indicate there is more potential upside than believed in some time.

While the economy is slowing down from the inﬂationary boom, state revenues continue to outpace expectations in recent months. In particular, both personal and corporate income taxes have come in noticeably higher than the previous forecast. Consumption-based revenues like lottery, the corporate activity tax, and recreational marijuana have more closely matched expectations.

Getting a handle of recent personal income tax collections is challenging. So far, the number of returns processed to date, and the amount of collections have outpaced previous expectations. Even so, compared to the past decade, collections are

Road Closure

SUBMITTED BY LANE COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS

Culvert repair has closed a portion of Row River Road east of Cottage Grove at milepost

8.7 through 7 p.m. Sept. 30, according to the Lane County Road Department. The construction work is to replace a failing culvert under the road to mitigate future landslides.

Alternate routes: Shoreview Drive

Park Access: West end of Row River Road

M.P. 6.10 Army Corps Roundabout

M.P. 6.40 Row Point

M.P. 7.40 Harms Park Boat Ramp East End of Row River Road

M.P. 9.50 Bake Stewart Park

For updates, visit TripCheck.com, which will be updated regularly as dates may change as construction progresses.

relatively low compared to the liability reported on returns. Ultimately how these data reconcile, with either less reported income or more payments than expected, will only be known after the extension ﬁling season. Available resources for the General Fund in the current 2023-25 biennium are raised by $676 million (+2.0%) compared to the prior forecast. Two-thirds of this increase is due to tracking actual tax collections alone. One-third of the increase is due to a stronger revenue outlook through the remainder of the biennium. Increased revenues in the current biennium also increase the projected kickers. The personal kicker now stands at an expected $987 million that will be returned to taxpayers in 2026. The corporate kicker now stands at an expected $883 million and will be retained in the General Fund and spent on education next biennium.

Looking ahead to the 2025-27 biennium, available resources are revised lower by $66 million compared to the previous forecast. Increases in corporate, estate, and interest earnings are not enough to fully= offset the larger personal kicker being paid out. That said, when looking at the state budget and the combined resources of

2023-25 and 2025-27 the General Fund forecast is raised $610 million. Consumption-based tax collections for the corporate activity tax, the lottery, and recreational marijuana in the current 2023-25 biennium are lowered a combined $27 million (-0.5%) compared to the prior forecast and lowered a similar $34 million (-0.6%) in the upcoming 2025-27 biennium.

Extended Outlook

Oregon typically outperforms most states over the entire economic cycle. This time is no different, however the expectations are that the relative growth advantage may be a bit smaller than it has been historically. The primary reason being slower population, and labor force growth than in decades past.

Over the extended forecast horizon, the Oregon Ofﬁce of Economic Analysis has identiﬁed four main avenues of growth that are important to continue to monitor: the state’s dynamic labor supply, the state’s industrial structure, productivity, and the current number of start-ups, or new businesses formed.

See the entire document here: https://www.oregon. gov/das/oea/Documents/ OEA-Forecast-0924.pdf

Classified

LADD CONSTRUCTION, LLC New or remodel, decks, siding, windows, doors, shops, fences. 541-913-1541 ccb# 239015

CGS24-3012 COTTAGE GROVE MINI STORAGE, 1520 HWY 99 N, COTTAGE GROVE, OR 97424. AUCTION: September 21, 2024 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. Andrew Crowder # E-257 2. Scottie Braden #A-020, A-027 & A-349. 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

CGS24-3011 NOTICE OF CITY OF COTTAGE GROVE PLANNING COMMISSIONER VACAN-

CY The City of Cottage Grove is currently accepting appli-

cations to fill a vacancy on the Planning Commission. The Commissioners are appointed by the City Council. The Planning Commission meets twice a month on the 2nd & 3rd Wednesday evenings at 7 PM. People interested in applying for these positions need to complete an Planning Commission application available at the Community Development Department at City Hall or online at: https://www.cottagegroveor.gov/pc/page/ planning-commissioner-recruitment-4. This position will remain open until filled. For further information please contact the Community Development Department at 541-942-5501.

CGS24-3010 NOTICE OF SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION AS ORDERED BY THE SUPERIOR COURT OF ARIZONA IN COCHISE COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT OF ARIZONA IN COCHISE COUNTY Case No. CV202400075. Jillian Werhowatz Plaintiff, vs. Davey Gary Allen, All Unknown Heirs and Assigns, and Catherine L. Traywick,

Cochise County Treasurer Defendants. TO: Davey Gary Allen, All Unknown Heirs and Assigns, and Catherine L. Traywick, Cochise County Treasurer GREETINGS: The above-named Plaintiff, Jillian Werhowatz, has filed a lawsuit against the abovenamed defendants. Davey Gary Allen, All Unknown Heirs and Assigns, and Catherine L. Traywick, Cochise County Treasurer are among the named defendants. Davey Gary Allen, All Unknown Heirs and Assigns, and Catherine L. Traywick, Cochise County Treasurer (collectively, “you”) are hereby notified that a lawsuit had been filed against you. A copy of the lawsuit and other court papers are served on you with this publication in the State of Arizona by The Superior Court of Arizona in Cochise County, Case No. CV202400075. If you do not want a judgement or order taken against you without your input, you must file and “Answer” or a “Response” in writing with the court, and pay the filing fee. If you do

not file an “Answer” or “Response” the other party may be given the relief requested in his/her Petition or Complaint. To file your “Answer” or “Response” take, or send, the “Answer” or “Response” to the: Superior Court, 100 Quality Hill Road, Bisbee, AZ 85603. YOUR “ANSWER” OR “RESPONSE” IS REQUIRED NO LATER THAN 30 DAYS AFTER THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. YOU CAN GET A COPY OF THE COURT PAPERS FILE IN THIS CASE FROM THE PETITIONER AT THE ADDRESS LISTED ON THE SUMMONS, FROM THE CLERK OF THE SUPERIOR COURTS CUSTOMER SERVICE: Superior Court, 100 Quality Hill Road, Bisbee, AZ 85603 OR (520) 432-8570.

CGS24-3013

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF LANE In the Matter of the Estate of: HILDA VIRGINIA STAPLETON, Deceased. Case No. 24PB05434 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Debra Olson has been appointed Personal Representative.

All persons having claims against the estate are hereby required to present them, with proper vouchers, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, as stated below, to the Personal Representative at 711 Country Club Road, Suite 200, Eugene, Oregon 97401, or they may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings in this estate may obtain additional information from the records of the Personal Representative, the Court, or the attorney for the Personal Representative, K.C. Huffman. Dated and first published: September 11, 2024.

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: Debra Olson, 3355 S. Cortez Road, Lot #88, Apache Junction, Arizona 85119, 541-7770185. ATTORNEY FOR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: K.C. Huffman, OSB No. 002854, Bromley Newton LLP, 711 Country Club Road, Suite 200, Eugene, Oregon 97401, 541-343-4700, 541-343-4713 Fax, kc@bromleynewton. com

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”

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

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

are essential in achieving its Climate Action Goals.

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Harris Hall, the Lane County Board of Commissioners meeting room in downtown Eugene, was packed with citizens, business owners, Goshen residents, recyclers, waste haulers, and EPUD ratepayers. At its Aug. 20 morning session, the board heard nearly three hours of public comment from 30 in-person speakers in addition to several virtual speakers.

Representatives from the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce, BRING Recycling, and BHS testified in support of the project for its economic development benefits and its ability to ensure future generations in Lane County will benefit from an improved environment.

Most speakers who were opposed the project objected for multiple reasons: the project’s price tag, risks of implementing brand new technology that may not perform as promised, negative impacts to Goshen residents, higher EPUD rates and increased costs

for garbage service. Some speakers expressed their concerns that the two-yearold project lacked transparency and not providing enough public information had diminished their trust in county leaders. Most of the speakers asked the commissioners to put the project up for a public vote.

In the Aug. 20 afternoon session, the board approved two of three orders described by Public Works Director Dan Hurley as “procedural to move the project forward”. The ﬁrst order authorized the county administrator to sign agreements related to leasing property and operations of the CleanLane Resource Recovery Facility to BHS. The second order authorized $35 million in public ﬁnancing to construct the facility.

The third order authorized a construction manager/general contractor approach to build the County-owned portion of the facility. The Board is scheduled to continue discussion of this item, and possibly make a decision, at the upcoming September 17 meeting at 2:30 p.m.

REFERENDUM DENIED

In response to the

commissioners’ approval of the three orders, the Lane County Garbage and Recycling Association (LCGRA) submitted two referendums to pause the project and allow voters to decide if the project should go forward. On Aug. 29, the Lane County Clerk’s Ofﬁce notiﬁed the group that, on the advice of County Counsel, the referendum request would not be granted.

Lane County’s Public Information Ofﬁcer Devon Ashbridge explained why the two petitions were denied.

“Every request for a voter petition is reviewed to ensure compliance with applicable legal requirements. The requests related to the CleanLane project were found to not meet statutory and constitutional requirements for referendum,” Ashbridge said. “Administrative items are not typically placed before voters.”

In a press release, LCGRA Volunteer President Jake Pelroy said members of the association of family-owned garbage and recycling processors in Lane County were “disappointed but not surprised.”

“As we have stated

before, we believe the public needs a buy-in on this project,” Pelroy said. “Raising garbage prices is a regressive tax that hurts us all. We will keep advocating for working families and discuss our next steps from here.”

EPUD NEXT STEPS

EPUD General Manager Kyle Roadman told the Sentinel the utility is extremely disappointed the County chose to move forward with such a massive investment on a split 3-2 vote.

“The public comment period ahead of this vote lasted for nearly two hours and was overwhelmingly in opposition to the project,” Roadman said. “We hoped the Commissioners would at least put the project on the ballot for a public vote, but instead they chose to ignore the legitimate affordability concerns raised by rural citizens.”

He said the EPUD Board of Directors is still considering its options.

“With the County Commissioners unwilling to listen to public input, we may need to resort to legal action or consider significant changes to the way

upfront. Local artists are also encouraged to display their work along the walls of the shop.

Peterson said the Slabtown has drawn a mixed crowd and regular customers.

“We’re right on Main Street and it is an active location,” she said. “We see many people we have never met before. We deﬁnitely get a lot of outof-town visitors. We sell a lot of lattes. We hope to be here a good long time.”

Coffee is a popular drink, according to Peterson.

“You’ve got to drink it every day,” she said. “People drink coffee anytime all year, so going into fall and winter, I don’t think it will be slow.”

Peterson said coffee houses, such as Slabtown, offer customers something different.

“It’s not a place selling alcohol, it’s not a bar, and there aren’t many places in town to just sit and few places for kids, so we are happy to have them,” she said.

A former receiving manager at Bi-Mart and farmer with pastured livestock, Peterson launched her new career at Slabtown, describing herself as a person who, “just does things. When I just decide I am going to do something, I just do it.”

And in case you are wondering what Peterson’s favorite coffee is, she said it’s a hot breve.

“It’s nice and creamy,” she said.

Peterson is a single parent with three children, ages 21, 20 and 18. Two of her children also work at Slabtown.

“I love Cottage Grove.

we operate at the landﬁll. Our board is considering all potential options to limit the cost increases to EPUD customers. If the project moves forward as designed, this will put upward pressure on EPUD rates in the years ahead. Although we will seek to mitigate the impact to the extent possible, eventually the $20 million cost would need to be passed on through higher rates.”

COMMISSIONER BUCH

RESPONDS

East Lane County Commissioner Heather Buch is a strong supporter of the project. She expressed her thanks to all who took the time to make public comments. She promised county ofﬁcials would continue to share the project’s beneﬁts with the community and stakeholders of the project.

“I’m excited to share with the public the creation of 65 permanent jobs in addition to the jobs created by construction. It will reduce Lane County’s greenhouse gas emissions to the tune of removing 25,000 cars from the road for 25 years.”

She added, “Aside from the obvious envi-

COFFEE

ronmental benefits, the financial savings alone to the community and high leveraging of funding made this the fiscally responsible decision. It will lengthen the life of the landfill by 20 years, which is worth more than $330 million in community costs. For every dollar Lane County is investing in the construction of CleanLane, about $4 of private and federal tax credit investment is put towards the project.

COUNTY’S NEXT STEPS

Ashbridge said staff will continue to carry out the direction provided in the recently passed board orders, including ﬁnalizing the contract with the project partner and preparing to move ahead with the ﬁnancing for the County’s portion of the project. She noted Lane County will pay for $35 million of the total $150 million project.

Read more about this project in The Sentinel’s previously published special three-part series with this story at cgsentinel.com and follow developments in the Wednesday print editions of The Sentinel.

SHOP cont. from page 1

It’s the best place ever,” she said. “I would never leave Cottage Grove.” Who We Are is a

frequent Sentinel feature highlighting the people and places in our community.

Lions work to build new competitive season

coach Steve Turner knows his team has a challenging season ahead.

The Lions are now in a new league competing in 3A Special District 3 this season. And it has been a long, long, time since the CGHS football has had a winning season.

The Lions ended last season with just one win and have not been the powerhouse team they were in the 2010s.

“In the past ﬁve years, Cottage Grove has won two

games,” Turner said. “That’s in the past. “We need to move on and concentrate on what we are doing.” The Lions were set to meet North Marion in their ﬁrst nonleague game Sept. 6, (see game results at ossa.org.), and host their ﬁrst home game against Coquille Friday, Sept. 13.

“The challenge is getting ready to play,” Turner said. “We don’t think about or talk about classiﬁcations or anything of that, because that doesn’t really matter right now. We are stressing the fundaments. It’s not rocket science. We are trying to put our stuff

together so we can be a competitive unit and to be more and more fundamentally sound.”

Turner said its early in the season to know what speciﬁc style of play the Lions will develop.

“We have a lot of strides to make from last year, and we aren’t quite where we want to be yet,” he said. “Obviously, we want to be competitive in each and every game. We want to be a physical team. We want to go after people and play hard and compete.”

This year, Turner is hopeful the strength of his team will be in numbers

as well as playing skills.

The Lions have 17 seniors this season, with an overall team of 60 players.

“We’ve come so far. It’s unbelievable.”

Steve Turner, CGHS Head Football Coach

“We should be able to compete with our opponents on a number bases this year,” he said. Reaching each player to help guide them is simple, according to Turner.

“The philosophy is to always be honest with them,” he said. “The guys know exactly where we are at and what we are about. We take things day-to-day. Progress doesn’t seem that much until after you look at it over a ﬁve or six month or over a year span. We’ve come so far. It’s unbelievable. We had to learn how to compete. We had to learn how to practice. We had to do all those things that people don’t see to make ourselves better.

Over the last year we’ve really changed. Our kids have done a whole lot better learning how to do those things.” A simple way of improving game skills and helping in everyday life.

“That’s so true, but a lot of kids don’t want to hear that now, and/or the parents either,” Turner said. “They want to know what’s going on now. How have you improved, all those things. Like I said, our improvements have been coming in little increments and we’re getting there.”

Turner is into his second hear as CGHS head football coach. He has nine assistant coaches this season.