Morning Lookout: ‘National Day of Action’; Springfield’s State of the City address

Good morning, Lookout Eugene-Springfield,

Don’t be surprised if your favorite restaurant, gift shop or coffee stand is closed today. Businesses across Eugene plan to participate in the “National Day of Action” designed to show solidarity against ICE actions against immigrants. Taylor Goebel spoke with a few business owners about how they plan to participate in the national strike.

Springfield Mayor Sean VanGordon touted Springfield as being “pro-growth and pro-economic development” as he delivered his State of the City address Thursday evening. Lillian Schrock-Clevenger was there and shares the key points from his address.

Oregon released graduation rates for the last school year and overall, numbers are up in Lane County. However, the county’s largest school district, Eugene 4J, saw its graduation rates decline for the second consecutive year. Lilly St. Angelo breaks down the numbers, and Michael Zhang created a data table to search for your school.

While we are talking about graduation, Lookout has launched our scholarship program for high school seniors. Three winners will receive a $500 scholarship to support their education. Here’s what you need to know to enter.

And if you are a teacher — or you know a teacher — listen up! We launched a program late last year to provide more than 500 local teachers with free, philanthropically supported Lookout Eugene-Springfield accounts. Here’s how you or someone you know can register.

Eugene Police announced its newest deputy chief this week. Jake Burke, who recently served as investigations captain in Eugene, will be the No. 2 law enforcement officer in the city.

Jaime Adame learned more about Cactus Milligan, who died last week after being pulled from a crevice near the Willamette River.

Stories you might have missed Thursday …

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Springfield mayor touts growth and community in annual speech

By Lillian Schrock-Clevenger

In his annual State of the City address, Mayor Sean VanGordon highlighted accomplishments in the city and honored a top business, employees of the year, and an outstanding community leader, while announcing a donation to the host: Wildish Community Theater.

Eugene bars and eateries join nationwide anti-ICE ‘Day of Action’

By Taylor Goebel

Some Eugene establishments are shutting down Friday to join a national protest and strike against federal immigration operations. Other small businesses say they can’t afford to close but are participating in other ways.

Man pulled from crevice in Eugene died from hypothermia, sister says

By Jaime Adame

Tabitha Bodda said her brother, who was rescued by a fire department crew last week, later died from cardiac arrest related to hypothermia. But the circumstances that led to him being trapped by a concrete wall make her suspect there could have been foul play.