Two of Springfield's most dedicated community leaders walked up to our mic at the 2025 Block Party, and we were ready for them.

Vonnie Mikkelsen, CEO of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, told us about the Chamber's 75th anniversary celebration — including a community mural painted by artist Bane Gardner on the side of the Emerald Arts Center and a time capsule set to open in 25 years. (Her staff already has the calendar invite. That's planning.)

Mayor Sean VanGordon is a volunteer mayor — meaning he shows up for this city because he believes in it, not because it's his day job. He's got deep roots in Springfield, and it shows in the way he talks about it. Not like a politician. Like a neighbor who happens to also run the city.

Mayor Sean also confirmed that his Wonder Twin daughters were spotted at The Block Party eating what may have been the largest donut in recorded Lane County history. We did not verify the donut's dimensions. We believe the witnesses.

This conversation is a good one for anyone who wants to understand what makes Springfield tick — and why events like this one aren't just fun, they're foundational.

Recorded live at Springfield's The Block Party 2025, powered by SELCO Community Credit Union.

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