Our History
Founded in 1888 by Albert B. Cavender and Arthur S. McDonald, The Brownsville Times quickly became a cornerstone of community life, building a circulation of 700 readers within its first two years. Over the decades, the newspaper passed through many dedicated hands — from Fred M. Brown, who ran the paper for 25 years, to a series of passionate owners including Jesse R. Hinman, A. L. Bostwick, Glenn W. Loomis, A. M. Byrd, Miles E. Taylor, Leo E. Giles, John L. Roberts, Chester “Chet” L. Harding, Ralph E. Sand, Don Ware, and Vance and Holly Parrish.
Through changes in ownership and the tides of history, The Brownsville Times remained a trusted voice for local news, celebrating the stories and milestones of our town for more than 135 years.
After publishing its final issue in December 2024, a group of community members came together with a shared vision: to preserve and revive The Brownsville Times for future generations. In 2025, a nonprofit was formed to relaunch the newspaper, fueled by the support of readers, advertisers, and volunteers who believe in the enduring value of local journalism.
Today, we honor our rich past as we build a bright new future — one story at a time.
Board Member Biographies
Sharon Banks – Chair
Sharon is a retired CFO and CEO with a long career serving government agencies and nonprofit organizations. She earned a B.S. in Accounting from the University of Oregon and served 26 years in the Oregon National Guard, where she honed her leadership skills and deepened her commitment to public service. Sharon is the First Vice Commander of the American Legion in Brownsville and serves on the board of Sharing Hands, continuing her advocacy for veterans and families in need. She and her husband, Woody, have four children and enjoy life on their tree farm with their husky, Eva, and two lively chickens, Elvis and Ginger.
Jeff Brown is a retired sales and management professional with a long-standing commitment to community service. He has been actively involved in several nonprofit organizations, including the Lions Club and the American Legion, reflecting his dedication to civic engagement and improving the lives of those around him. Jeff is also passionate about local journalism and plays a key role in helping to revive The Brownsville Times, recognizing the essential role a community newspaper plays in keeping residents informed and connected. He and his wife enjoy traveling and have spent time exploring both the US and destinations abroad.
Daniel R. Murphy holds a B.S. from Oregon State University and a J.D. from Willamette University College of Law. He operated a private law practice in Lebanon from 1981 to 1989, then served as Deputy District Attorney for Linn County until 1994. From 1994 to 2018, he was a Circuit Court Judge for Linn County. After retiring from the bench, he wrote part-time for The Times from 2019 to 2024. Daniel is also a Linn County Master Gardener, a tour guide at the Moyer House, and serves on the boards of both the Linn County Museum Friends and the Linn County Museum Trust. He believes a free and independent press is vital to both democracy and small communities and serves on The Brownsville Times board in support of that ideal.
Donald Lyon is a retired international photography tour operator who spent more than 40 years leading small group adventures worldwide. Since retiring to a small town and a large garden 15 years ago, he has found joy in community service. Don serves on the Calapooia Food Alliance and the Thompson’s Mills Preservation Society boards and volunteers as a Linn County Master Gardener. He believes a strong community newspaper is the “secret sauce” that keeps Brownsville vibrant and connected, not just a bedroom community.
Sandra Saltzer – Secretary
Don Andrews – Vice Chair
Anne Clarke – Treasurer
Publisher Biography
Mikayle Stole is a seasoned creative professional with over 35 years of experience in graphic design, marketing, and photography. She has led marketing departments in both nonprofit and corporate settings and worked with clients across sectors, including higher education, local government, and small business. Mikayle is the founder of SeenEugene, an online photojournalism project, and currently serves as publisher of The Brownsville Times, where she is leading the paper’s revival with a focus on community storytelling and historical preservation. She is a Springfield Rotarian and has served on the boards of the Shelton McMurphey Johnson House Museum and the Springfield Farmers Market. Mikayle lives in Brownsville with her family and is deeply committed to civic engagement and inclusive storytelling.