The University of Oregon held its first commencement ceremony in years due to the pandemic, and now that means it’s time for Eugene to empty out a little. At least until Oregon22 kicks off in July. So now might be the time to check out — or explore — the University District area. If you need ideas, remember that we’ll be losing stellar restaurants when the parts of the 13th Avenue block become a student housing complex, so make sure you give Caspian Mediterranean one more visit.
Speaking of redevelopment, the Eugene City Council is moving along with finding ways to invest more in downtown. At a June 13 work session, councilors discussed ideas they had on where to invest — maybe a new pharmacy or new convention center — and where to get the money.
“If it’s to be an attractive center that draws people of all ages to its theaters and restaurants, we need to continually invest in its streets and sidewalks and encourage the reinvention of old buildings into new uses,” said city of Eugene Economic Strategies Manager Anne Fifield.
City staff will now conduct outreach with stakeholders to hear from them what should be on the priority list and then report back to council.
If you can, all we are saying is to give the Peace Run a try.
The Palmo Center for Peace and Education’s annual Eugene Peace Run is 9 am Saturday, June 18. The Palmo is a nonprofit in Eugene whose programs provide a welcoming environment for people of all faiths and support the teachings of the Dalai Lama.
The 5 km or 10 km walk or run event is at Alton Baker Park. The Kids Peace Place is 9 to 11:30 am, also at Alton Baker Park.
And of course June 19 is Juneteenth. Betty Snowden and Glamour Girl Unlimited are producing an event featuring a performance by American Idol runner up 2021 Willie Spence and a free lunch. The event kicks off with a COVID vaccine clinic from 9 to 11 am and the concert is 1 to 4 pm.
Check out Slant on Thursday for information on the annual Juneteenth event in Alton Baker Park.
PS. The current events never stop. If you’ve got a thought to share about the numerous problems in the world — from inflation to inaction on gun control — send a 150-word letter to EW.
