Simpsons mural coming to the real Springfield

SPRINGFIELD, Ore. -- The city of Springfield, Oregon, says a mural featuring "The Simpsons" will be painted on the side of the Emerald Art Center.

Series creator Matt Groening grew up in Portland and told Smithsonian magazine two years ago that he named Springfield after the one in Oregon.

City spokesman Niel Laudati told The Register-Guard (http://is.gd/7C3m5L ) that Groening will have input on the mural, and the project resulted from discussions between the city and "The Simpsons" producers on commemorating the link between the real and fictitious Springfields.

The mural is expected to be completed by the end of the summer.

Laudati said the artwork will depict Homer lounging in a hammock, Bart climbing a tree, Marge painting, and Lisa and Maggie riding a bike.