Images Eugene, OR: 2010 by Journal Communications

2010 | imageseugene.com ®

eugene, oregon

EPICURIOSITY New food products often cooked up here

DO YOU MIND? Area remains hotbed for entrepreneurs, innovation

Hear We Go, Johann Bach fest highlights talented music scene

What’s Online See what’s in store for downtown Eugene.

sponsored by the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce

imageseugene.com

2010 edition | volume 6

The definitive relocation resource

What’s Online Eugene , Oregon

picture perfect We’ve added even more of our prize-winning photography to the online gallery. To see these photos, click on Photo Gallery.

relocation Considering a move to this community? We can help. Use our Relocation Tools to discover tips, including how to make your move green, advice about moving pets and help with booking movers.

facts & stats Go online to learn even more about: • Schools

co nte nt s F e atu r e s 6 Generation Next Eugene’s urban amenities draw young professionals.

10 hear we go, johann Bach fest highlights talented music scene.

14 Exhibiting Cooperation Promoting area’s top cultural and historical offerings.

• Health care

16 Strengthening the Core

• Utilities • Parks

Civic leaders make strides in revitalizing downtown.

• Taxes Images Eugene is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses. For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by e-mail at info@jnlcom.com.

For more information, contact: Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce 1401 Willamette Street • Eugene, OR 97401 Phone: (541) 484-1314 • Fax: (541) 484-4942 www.eugenechamber.com Visit images Eugene online at imageseugene.com

d e pa r tm e nt s 4 Almanac 18 Business Feature 20 Biz Briefs 21 Economic Profile 22 Local Flavor

23 25 26 27 28

Arts & Culture Health & Wellness Sports & Recreation Education Community Profile

©Copyright 2010 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent. Member

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Member Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce Project manager Ari surdoval On the cover Wynton Marsalis and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra perform at the Hult Center. Photo by Jeff Adkins

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Almanac

Birds of a Feather There is a medical facility on a wooded hillside in southeast Eugene that is devoted solely to birds of prey. Cascades Raptor Center is a nonprofit nature center and wildlife hospital founded in 1987 that is devoted to the rehabilitation and release of orphaned, sick and injured raptors. The raptors are a variety of hunting birds all with keen eyesight and hearing, strong feet with sharp talons for grasping and killing prey, and curved beaks for ripping up their food. Such birds include eagles, hawks, falcons, owls, vultures and osprey, and approximately 70 to 100 birds usually remain at Cascades until they are ready to be released.

We Propose a Toast Here’s a toast to the wine industry in Eugene and Lane County. The Willamette Valley has ideal soil for grape production, and the climate is near-perfect thanks to Lane County’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean. As a result, the county ranks No. 7 in Oregon for production and acres planted. Some of the established wineries in Eugene and Lane County include Silvan Ridge-Hinman Vineyards, King Estate Winery, LaVelle Vineyards, Sweet Cheeks Winery and more.

Snap Peas and Marionberries The farm-to-table movement has been around for a long time in Eugene. The city’s health-conscious focus certainly includes food, and an abundance of locally grown produce can be found at several markets. Perhaps the most well-known venue for such fresh items is the Lane County Farmers’ Market, whose roots actually date back to 1915. The market features 160 growers and producers who sell farm-fresh items from April through mid-November.

Let’s Go Clubbing Golf courses in Eugene and Lane County are way above par – and that’s a good thing. Golfers can always find a place to play here, with a variety of public and private courses. They include private facilities such as Eugene Country Club, Shadow Hills Country Club and Springfield Country Club, and public venues such as Diamond Woods Golf Course, Emerald Valley Golf Club, Oakway Golf, RiverRidge Golf Course and Sandpines Golf Links. In addition, several of the courses in the county have teamed up with lodging enterprises to create the Golf Lane County campaign, which cross-promotes what they have to offer. Diamond Woods, Emerald Valley and RiverRidge are all among the featured courses on the www.golflanecounty.com Web site.

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More Than Just Pretty Facades The Eugene-Springfield area is about to become a leader for LEED buildings. Five buildings have already earned LEED – or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design – certification, while another dozen are in various stages of planning. LEED buildings follow a list of standards for environmentally sustainable construction, as approved by the U.S. Green Building Council. The five LEED-certified buildings in Lane County are the Lillis Business Complex, Slocum Orthopedic Center and U.S. Federal Courthouse in Eugene, and the Royal Caribbean call center and Symantec customer service building in Springfield.

Eugene At A Glance POPULATION (2009 ESTIMATE) Eugene: 157,100 Springfield: 58,085 Lane County: 347,690 LOCATION Eugene is in the southern Willamette Valley of western Oregon, 60 miles east of the Pacific Ocean and about the same distance west of the Cascade Mountains. BEGINNINGS Eugene was platted and recorded in 1852, and incorporated in 1862. Two years later, the community adopted a charter and took the first name of its founder, Eugene Skinner.

Fast Facts

FOR MORE INFORMATION Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce 1401 Willamette St. Eugene, OR 97401 Phone: (541) 484-1314 Fax: (541) 484-4942 www.eugenechamber.com

What’s Online Take a virtual tour of Eugene, courtesy of our award-winning photographers, at imageseugene.com.

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Pacific Ocean

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n The annual Eugene Celebration each September is one of the city’s most popular events, with a series of activities that collectively epitomize its fun, funky and fiercely independent spirit.

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Santa Clara Springfield

Cottage Grove

n Eugene is known as Track Town U.S.A. for its historic commitment to and involvement in the sport, including hosting the U.S. Olympic Team Trials – Track & Field in 1972, 1976, 1980, 2008 and 2012.

Oakridge

McKenzie Bridge

n Eugene is known as the World’s Greatest City of the Arts and Outdoors. n Since 1961, the annual Scandinavian Festival in Junction City each August has showcased the culture of many of the area’s residents.

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Generation

Next Eugene’s Urban Amenities Draw Young Professionals

Story By Jessica Mozo Photography By jeff adkins

ou might say Sarah-Kate and Matt Sharkey moved to Eugene on a whim. “Matt had only briefly driven through Eugene once, and I had never been to Oregon,” recalls Sarah-Kate Sharkey, a native of Providence, R.I. “But we had a feeling Eugene would be a place that fit us. We were attracted by the natural beauty of Oregon, the culture of a university town and the size of the community. We didn’t have jobs lined up here and didn’t know a soul. It was an adventure.” The couple only intended to stay a year or two. But that was in 2003. “We fell in love with Eugene and never left,” says Sharkey, who works as associate director of Court Appointed Special Advocates, a nonprofit organization that advocates on behalf of abused and neglected children. The Sharkeys are two of the many young professionals who have planted roots in Eugene. The city’s rich cultural offerings, spectacular outdoor opportunities and innovative business scene are a magnet for young workers. In fact, Eugene ranked third among cities its size as a U.S. hotspot Left: Patrons enjoy dining outdoors at the Steelhead Brewery & Restaurant. Right: A couple strolls along East 5th Avenue in downtown Eugene.

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Left to right: Sarah-Kate Sharkey mingles with other young professionals at the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce’s Business After Hours; The University of Oregon campus in Eugene

for young, talented workers in Next Generation Consulting’s 2009 “Next Cities” report. In 2004, the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce recognized the city’s growing segment of young professionals and created a Young Professionals Network that provides them with networking, professional and personal development and other opportunities. One member of the organization is Jason Stefely, a State Farm agent who moved to Eugene from Chicago in 2002. Stefely and his wife Jessica relocated to Eugene for work, but they soon found it offered lots of other incentives. “It was a great place to land. Eugene has a lot of the advantages of a big city without the hassle,” Stefely says. “I’m a sports nut, so I love having the Ducks close by. I travel for business, and I’m five minutes from the airport. And the Hult Center brings great entertainment like Seinfeld and Harry Connick Jr. As a small business employer, I’ve also had great success finding other talented young professionals in Eugene to hire.” Sharkey has found a lot to love about Eugene too. “It’s small enough that the achievements of young professionals stand out despite our age, and that enables us to build valuable connections and gain career opportunities that might not be possible in a bigger city,” she says. “There are so many creative, innovative and intelligent people

working in exciting entrepreneurial ventures here. And there is great value placed on philanthropy and volunteerism, enabling this community to sustain a large number of thriving nonprofits. The University of Oregon also offers rich cultural and educational opportunities.” One of the biggest draws is a spectacular natural environment. “You can drive an hour and a half and be in great skiing areas with lots of mountain activities like climbing and snowshoeing,” Stefely says. “And Hood River is one of the top spots in the world for kite boarding and windsurfing.” Sharkey loves hiking Spencer’s Butte and Mount Pisgah, walking along the Willamette bike path and visiting Hendricks Park. Both Sharkey and Stefely agree on one thing – Eugene overflows with great food. “I love to eat, and lots of young professionals go to the Fifth Street Market area, where you can find restaurants like the Lucky Noodle,” Stefely says. “Downtown, a lot of young people go to Davis’ Restaurant and Bar. They have good food and great beers on tap.” Sharkey says her favorites include Beppe & Gianni’s Trattoria, Laughing Planet Cafe, Lotus Garden, Cornucopia and Sweet Life Patisserie. E u g ene

Resounding

Successes All music genres rate applause in Eugene Story By Kevin Litwin | Photography By jeff adkins

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ear and now, music lovers have a variety of concert options in Eugene and Lane County. For instance, there is the Eugene Symphony, which was founded in 1966 and performs most of its concerts at the 2,500-seat Hult Center for the Performing Arts. The orchestra plays in front of 27,000 classical music fans each year, and the Hult Center enjoys attendances of more than 91 percent capacity whenever the symphony takes the stage. Then there are the Oregon Mozart Players. The group performs six concerts each year during its season that runs from October-May, performing in the more intimate 500-seat Soreng Theater inside the Hult Center. “Everyone thinks that because of our name, we just perform Mozart music – but that isn’t true,” says Larry Wayte, executive director of the Oregon Mozart Players. “We feature a broad spectrum of music, playing everything from baroque to 20th century. All of our musicians are paid, and many also perform for the Eugene Symphony.” Wayte says most of the group’s concerts also feature soloists who Wynton Marsalis and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra perform at the Hult Center in Eugene.

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travel to Eugene from throughout the United States. “Our group’s artistic director, Glenn Cortese, is a conductor and composer from New York who does all of our programming,” Wayte says. “Glenn has a broad range of musical interests and provides the Oregon Mozart Players with an excellent eclectic concert lineup each season.” Wayte says he believes Eugene/ Lane County is an ideal community for musicians because it embraces all forms of the arts. “There are a surprising amount of performance art companies and several nice venues here,” Wayte says. “In

addition, Eugene functions as the cultural capital of central Oregon because Portland is two hours away, which is too far for most people to attend concerts.” Meanwhile, the city is also home to the Oregon Bach Festival, an annual celebration of 18th century composer Johann Sebastian Bach. The event takes place 17 days each summer, on the University of Oregon campus and at the Hult Center. As for other destinations and musical events in Eugene, the Cuthbert Amphitheatre hosts a number of outdoor performances each year, while another specific celebration is the Oregon Festival of American Music that

occurs each August. The festival takes place in a former Baptist church that has an 800-seat concert hall, a 175-seat recital hall and two dance studios. “We are very involved with the overall arts scene in Eugene; in fact, my wife, Ginevra, was instrumental in also helping to found both the Eugene Opera and the Eugene Ballet Company,” says James Ralph, executive director of the John G. Shedd Institute for the Arts, which presents the annual Oregon Festival of American Music. “Today, our Institute also runs a community music school that averages 550 students each week. Yes, the love of music is truly alive in this community.”

Clockwise from top left: The Hult Center; Walker T. Ryan of Underdog American Music; The Ben Rice Blues Band

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Partnership promotes areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top cultural and historical offerings

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Story By Joe Morris | Photography By Brian mccord

utdoor enthusiasts flock to Eugene, and with good reason. But there’s plenty to do inside as well, with multiple museums and other cultural venues. More than a dozen museums and other attractions and venues have banded together to form the Museums of Springfield/Eugene, or MUSE, an umbrella organization that allows the entities to combine marketing efforts for the entire region. MUSE members also meet on a regular basis for professional development, as well as organization joint activities between several or all of the members to raise awareness not only of each institution, but also of the area’s overall arts, cultural and historical offerings. The organization also produces an annual brochure that contains information about each member, as well as discount admission coupons. And in the world of arts and nonprofits, anything that can stretch a promotional dollar further is a good thing, says Debbie Williamson-Smith, public relations and marketing coordinator for the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art and 2009 MUSE chairperson. “These kinds of cooperative marketing partnerships are essential to our success,” Williamson-Smith says. “It’s an opportunity to share ourselves with the audiences of the other museum members, and also to be included in brochures that promote all the museums in the area. It’s quite a valuable partnership.” Being a MUSE member certainly helps broaden the reach

of the Oregon Air & Space Museum, an all-volunteer operation that opened in 1991. The museum acquires, restores and displays aircraft and artifacts that showcase the history of aviation and space technology, and also sponsors fly-ins and other events. The museum recently purchased and restored a T34B trainer plane used by the U.S. Navy in the 1960s, finished work on an A4C Skyhawk and hung a 1943 Schweitzer training glider. “We have about 25 planes in our two hangars, and being in MUSE lets us stretch our marketing dollars and also talk to other people who may have some common problems,” says Bob Rathmann, a volunteer and former museum board president. “Not everybody has the same interests, but we do have the same goal and can work together toward that.” That kind of long-range thinking is the order of the day over at the Museum of Natural and Cultural History at the University of Oregon, where exhibits stretch back over thousands of years. Known for its Condon fossil collection and basketry displays, the museum relies on MUSE to promote such enhancements as a new main exhibit hall and a $10 million expansion that will add a new collections center, double current exhibit space and construct a new research wing, says Jon Erlandson, director. And there may be even more to promote soon, because MUSE is considering expanding its reach outside the Springfield and Eugene area, Williamson-Smith says. For more information on MUSE and its members, visit www.museumslanecounty.org.

From left: University of Oregon’s Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art; Museum of Natural and Cultural History at the University of Oregon; Kids at the Science Factory Children’s Museum and Planetarium in Eugene

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Jeff Adkins

Strengthening the

Core Eugene makes strides in revitalizing downtown

Story By Jessica Mozo

Jeff Adkins

Brian M c Cord

ince the 1960s, downtowns across the nation have faced economic challenges as people began moving to and shopping in suburban areas rather than the city center. In 2000, Eugene citizens began working on a vision to revitalize downtown with mixed-use developments, downtown markets, cultural events and plans for a Downtown Public Library (completed in 2005), among other projects. “Creating a strong, vibrant downtown requires the energy, focus and commitment of many parts of the community,” says Jon Ruiz, Eugene city manager. “The City of Eugene is bringing those people and groups together to re-energize our downtown.” Downtown Eugene is already bustling, thanks to its one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants, excellent rapidtransit bus line, Saturday Market and farmers’ markets, and proximity to the Willamette River, Skinner’s Butte and Alton Baker Park. There’s also a burgeoning entertainment district with the Hult Center for the Performing Arts and community events such as Eugene Celebration and the Summer in the City concert series that draws more than 3,000 spectators downtown. But city officials, business owners and citizens long for more. A survey

conducted by the city in 2009 found that 88 percent of Eugene citizens thought economic development downtown was important, and 75 percent thought it should be a priority. “We know people care about our downtown and want to see improvements,” says Mike Sullivan, division manager of Eugene’s Community Development Department. “But we also need to know which projects they would like to see the city support. Through open houses, outreach events and our Web site, we hope to share information about downtown revitalization opportunities and collect feedback for the city council to consider. We also want to engage more people in the discussion by having multiple ways to participate, whether in person or online.” That’s why the city created Vibrant Eugene, a special section of the city’s Web site used for sharing information on proposed downtown projects and listening to what people think. One such project is the creation of a Lane Community College downtown campus with a new 80,000-square-foot academic building across from the Downtown Public Library. The project is expected to be a total investment of $25 to $35 million and result in hundreds of jobs.

Clockwise from top: Downtown Eugene; WestTown on 8th; Jeremy Covert, Melissa Hansen and Lucie at the Jeremy Covert Gallery; Cycling downtown

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Business

S m oo t h

Start

Entrepreneurs find Eugene a smart place to launch

Story By Melanie Hill | Photography By jeff adkins

illamette Valley is a naturally smart place to do business. While many flock to the region for its scenic views, the area also has become a clear choice for visionary entrepreneurs hoping to make their mark. “I like to say that it takes a community to raise an entrepreneur,” says Caroline Cummings, director of entrepreneurial development at the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce. “You need access to resources that can help you get what you need at the right time.” Working alongside business and city leaders, Cummings has worked to provide valuable programs and support rarely available to new businesses. Through Smart-ups, a chapter of the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network, entrepreneurs find a support network committed to improving the climate for Willamette Valley’s emerging-growth companies through education, networking and capital development opportunities. According to Clarke McAllister, CEO and founder of Eugenebased ADASA Inc., the organization offers a tremendous advantage to business venturers. “It’s a nurturing environment for learning and has helped give us a talent pool to draw from,” says McAllister, whose radio frequency identification tag encoding equipment is now used by some of the world’s largest and most innovative retailers. Entrepreneurs also gain a competitive edge through the annual Willamette Angel Conference, co-sponsored by the Eugene Area Chamber and the Corvallis-Benton Chamber Coalition. The investor-driven business plan competition helps to increase capital in the region, improve the quality of business plans, and illustrate how emerging growth

businesses are key to supporting the regional economy. In 2009, the chamber launched the Southern Willamette Angel Network, in which accredited investors meet to review emerging growth business plans. Free business plan coaching is offered through the chamber, while the South Willamette Valley Incubator supports start-ups with affordable workspace and access to quality technology. Mentoring is also available from groups such as the chamber’s Entrepreneurial Advisory Board, where member Mark Frohnmayer is writing his own success story. In 2007, Frohnmayer founded Eugene-based electric car company Arcimoto, whose unforgivingly sleek and efficient Arcimoto Pulse will rev up the electric car industry when it hits the market in 2010. “I’ve had a lifelong interest in transportation efficiency, and figured that someone had to have an appropriate transportation solution for getting around town that would be environmentally sustainable and well built,” Frohnmayer says. An Oregon native, he says the region was a natural choice for his start-up. “The quality of forward-thinking people in the area – in the transportation field and also in the software industry – set it apart,” Frohnmayer says. Few places harbor innovation like Riverfront Research Park, a cooperative effort of the University of Oregon and private developers. With approximately one million square feet of development, the park was designed to attract and promote technology and local economy by providing an environment conducive to research and innovation. The park is home to more than 60 tenant companies and organizations specializing in fields such as neuroscience, biotechnology, behavioral science and optimization technology.

ADASA Inc. founder Clarke McAllister holds a roll of foam-attached RDIF tags that are being developed in Eugene.

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Business

Biz Briefs Businesses – both large and small – that help define Eugene’s economic climate

Scorecard Business At A Glance

$2,239,391 Retail sales ($1,000)

$15,908 Retail sales per capita

$265,762 Accommodations and food service sales ($1,000)

14,135 Total number of firms

Bi-Mart Corporation Biz: Retail store Buzz: Based in Eugene, Bi-Mart Corporation has called the city its home since the early 1960s and has expanded to provide 72 stores located throughout Oregon, Washington and Idaho. In addition to offering customers over 40,000 reasonably priced items, this membership-only retailer gives back to its community by supporting local charities and more. www.bimart.com

BRING Recycling Biz: Recycling company Buzz: BRING Recycling is committed to serving Lane County by assisting residents in living sustainably. A wide variety of recyclable items are accepted, including aluminum siding, cabinet doors, flower pots and much more. All donations are tax deductible and can be brought to the Planet Improvement Center. Used items are available for purchase as well. www.bringrecycling.org

Palo Alto Software Biz: Software company Buzz: Headquartered in Eugene, Palo Alto Software develops and sells Windows-based desktop software. The company was founded in 1983 by Tim Berry and now offers a variety of products to small businesses and organizations. In addition, Palo Alto Software provides tutorial and training videos, webinars and business plan coaching. www.paloalto.com

Wheelworks LLC Biz: Personal transportation retailer Buzz: Wheelworks LLC offers several options when it comes to personal transportation, including bicycles, electric bikes, mopeds, motor scooters and motorcycles. Open since 2001, the store is owned by longtime Eugene resident Bill Cole. Wheelworks LLC also sponsors several cycling teams and offers public group rides from the store, at 407 W. 11th Street. www.e-wheelworks.com

Source: U.S. Census QuickFacts

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Business | Economic Profile

Eugene Business climate Eugene has a diverse economic base heavily weighted with small companies, which take advantage of the favorable business environment. Most companies here employ fewer than 20 workers.

community resources City of Eugene 777 Pearl St. Eugene, OR 97401 (541) 682-5010 www.eugene-or.gov

real estate

$190,000 Median Home Sales Price â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Lane County

employers

10,151 Retail Trade

Lane County Administration 125 E. 8th Ave. Eugene, OR 97401 (541) 682-4203 www.co.lane.or.us

MORE ONLINE imageseugene.com More facts, stats and community information, including relocation tools and links to resources.

Travel Lane County 754 Olive St. Eugene, OR 97401 (541) 345-5307 www.TravelLaneCounty.org Eugene Airport 28801 Douglas Dr. Eugene, OR 97402 (541) 682-5430 www.flueeug.com

4,554 Finance, Insurance & Real Estate

Information provided by:

3,374 Public Administration

1,290 Transportation & Communications

913 Wholesale Trade

674 Manufacturing

548 Construction

156 Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing

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Local Flavor

Unusually Appealing Edibles Local companies boost Eugene’s reputation for imaginative cuisine

s this repetitive – Euphoria Chocolate? Euphoria is one of several local food companies that gives Eugene a deserved reputation as an imaginative culinary city. Not only are a number of made-inEugene edibles distributed in these parts, but all over America. It only makes sense that citizens

noted for inventiveness and the pursuit of alternative ideas should want their food as healthy and interesting as possible. Such is the case at GloryBee Foods, which uses actual honeybees to make several of its products – including honey candy. Then there is Nancy’s Yogurt, made by Springfield Creamery and

distributed nationally. Employee Nancy Hamren came to work at the creamery in 1969 and had an all-natural yogurt recipe that had been her grandmother’s, and dairy technologists have perfected it into the savory products sold today throughout the U.S. Bliss is Naked Coconut At Coconut Bliss, nondairy frozen treats come in eight flavors with names like Strawberry Lemon Love and Naked Coconut. The owners began their business in 2005 with a $2 handcranked ice cream maker from Goodwill, and today Coconut Bliss is in all 50 states. Meanwhile, Golden Temple produces granolas and natural breakfast cereals, and teas inspired by Eastern philosophy. The company generates close to $100 million in annual revenue, with much of the money going to benefit peace efforts. No Foolin’ About Tofu Toby’s Family Foods produces a large line of tofu. What’s tofu? It is basically compressed cottage cheese made from soymilk, and two of Toby’s most popular low fat, low calorie, low carb flavors are martini olive and classic lemon dill. And at Surata Soyfoods, they also make nutritional whole foods such as tofu and tempeh. By the way, tempeh is a cultured soy product that originated in Indonesia many centuries ago. Oh, How Very European The term “drinking chocolate” is relatively unknown in the United States, though very popular in Europe. Now, Sipping Dreams is a local drinking chocolate company that sells luscious bar chocolate – not powder – to produce its thick, rich drinks. Aloha From Oregon is a Eugene company that specializes in unusual organic butters, jellies and preserves. They sell items such as mulled wine jelly and marionberry preserves. – Kevin Litwin

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Arts & Culture

Jeff Adkins

Staff Photo

Meet You at the Market Eugene Saturday Market has been a local tradition since 1970

s the nation’s oldest weekly open-air crafts market, Eugene’s Saturday Market is hard to beat in terms of taking in the essence of the city’s local cultural scene. Established in 1970, the market is open every Saturday, rain or shine, from April through mid-November on the Park Blocks at 8th and Oak in downtown Eugene. “The first Saturday Market in 1970 had just 29 vendors,” says Kim Still, the market’s promotions and advertising manager. “Today, we have more than 200. The community has been so supportive, and the market has become a popular weekly gathering place for people of all ages and lifestyles. We have folks who come out every week – friends and neighbors who never miss [it].” Still says that hundreds of artisans sell their wares at the market, including everything from clothing and accessories to jewelry and one-of-a-kind, handcrafted gift items. “There’s such a rich tradition of crafting in Eugene, and the Saturday Market is the perfect showcase for that,” she says. “Everything is made locally – nothing mass produced or imported. Blown glass, wood working, needle felting, tie dye, recycled art – you name it. Of course, there are quite a few items that are hard to define – sort of an ‘only in Eugene’ category. But that’s what makes it so much fun.” Along with artisan booths, the market also features an International Food Court and plenty of live entertainment. In

fact, more than 1,000 performers hit the market stages each year, with musical styles ranging from acoustic and folk to blues, jazz and rock and roll. “The food court is an important part of the market. There’s such a wide variety – from Afghani to Indian to Mexican and more. And we’re a major supporter of local musicians and performing artists. I think it’s the combination of the crafters, food and entertainment that makes the market so special. It’s a really good way for visitors to get a snapshot of Eugene’s personality.” On the weekend before Thanksgiving, the market moves inside to become the Holiday Market, running every weekend through Christmas at the Lane County Events Center. “The Holiday Market features many of the same vendors as the regular Saturday Market,” Still says. “It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit and find some really unusual, oneof-a-kind gift items. It’s also a wonderful way to share a bit of the local flavor with out-of-town guests.” – Amy Stumpfl

What’s Online Watch a video and explore the sights and sounds of the Eugene Saturday Market at imageseugene.com.

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Health & Wellness

Providing Care for Every Body Area medical centers offer best in health services

t’s only fitting that a city heralded for good health and ample activity also offers the best in medical care. At Sacred Heart Medical Center and McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center, families find just that – first-class health care minutes from home. Operated by PeaceHealth Oregon, Sacred Heart Medical Center provides comprehensive care at two area campuses. In 2008, the system celebrated the opening of Springfield’s Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend. The full-service hospital includes the Oregon Bariatric Center, Oregon Heart & Vascular Institute and Oregon Neurosciences Institute. The hospital also ranks among the state’s busiest for surgeries, now offering robotic assisted surgery through the da Vinci® Si Surgical System. Meanwhile, Sacred Heart’s University District campus in Eugene provides access to multiple specialty services including behavioral health, gerontology and orthopaedics. Emergency care also is offered at both locations, with wait times updated every five minutes on PeaceHealth Oregon’s homepage. In 2009, the system celebrated the opening of PeaceHealth Check-up, a 300-square-foot retail health and wellness center located inside Market of Choice in south Eugene’s Woodfield Station shopping center. Staffed by a nurse practitioner, the clinic is open seven days a week for immunizations, screenings and treatment of minor conditions. It currently is the only center of its kind in the state. “With this model of care, PeaceHealth can offer routine wellness care to people on a walk-in basis while they shop,” says Mel Pyne, chief executive officer of PeaceHealth Oregon Region. “People like having quick, convenient access to care from a trusted provider.” At Springfield’s McKenzieWillamette Medical Center, patients find a broad range of services including emergency care, pulmonary medicine,

conventional and robotic surgery and a comprehensive heart center. In 2009, the hospital became the area’s first to use wireless pacemaker technology. Designed to improve patient care and simplify follow-up, the pacemaker notifies physicians of changes in a patient’s device or condition, with wireless access to automatic test results and complete diagnostics. And at the newly opened Advanced Wound Healing Center, patients find relief from chronic, non-healing wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers, skin grafts and severe injuries. Moms-to-be appreciate the extra care provided by McKenzieWillamette’s Women’s Health & Birth Center. Spacious birthing and

postpartum suites allow for labor, delivery and postpartum care in the same room. Private suites include a microwave, refrigerator, entertainment center and private baths with deep, jetted tubs for relaxation before and after labor. New moms also can enroll in the Tiny Toes Tip-Top OB Club and receive special keepsakes, discounts from local merchants and helpful information. The investor-owned regional acute care center also is reaching out to neighbors through free community programs such as Healthy Woman and Senior Circle. Seminars, e-mails and events keep members up to date on the latest issues affecting their health. – Melanie Hill

Photo Courtesy of Deborah Weese

Vern Katz, M.D., attending physician for the Center for Medical Education and Research at Sacred Heart Medical Center, oversees the work of Jacob Meyer.

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Sports & Recreation

What’s Online Go to imageseugene.com and click on “recreation” to read more about Eugene’s sports and recreational activities.

Active at Every Age City’s extensive parks and open space programs benefit all residents

ugene is often regarded as one of the healthiest cities in the United States, and there are dozens of good reasons for that lofty distinction. The City of Eugene Parks and Open Space Department oversees nearly 50 recreation programs that can be used and enjoyed by residents of all ages. That enjoyment can begin at the earliest ages with city-sponsored kids programs such as KinderKarate, Gym Tumblers, MusiKids, modern dance and ballet. There are also more than 25 sports programs available for boys and girls who live in the Eugene area. The city is also home to three public swimming venues – Amazon, Echo Hollow and Sheldon pools – with plenty of space at each for hundreds of people to enjoy during the warm-weather months. Open swimming and club competitions are available at all three sites. An outdoor inline/floor hockey rink that is equipped with dasher boards, night lighting and spectator seating is also available mainly for kids. The spacious 120-foot-by-55-foot rink is located at the Amazon Park tennis courts. But kids aren’t the only Eugene residents privy to a variety of recreation opportunities. Parks and Open Space officials offer a large number of competitive sports leagues for men and women as well as coed teams. City officials say adult sports encourage physical fitness, mental well-being and social interaction, and healthy residents contribute to a productive and healthy community.

Specific sports programs include men’s and women’s spring soccer, men’s winter soccer, women’s sand volleyball, men’s basketball and women’s softball. There are also coed leagues in sports such as sand volleyball, spring soccer and summer softball. Meanwhile, the Parks and Open Space department also takes care of 40 parks and outdoor facilities throughout the Eugene area, with those venues situated in all parts of the community. For example, Gilham Park and Striker Field are situated in the eastern portion of the city, while the southern sector has sites such as University Park and Laurelwood Golf Course. The northern portion of Eugene is graced with attractions such as Bramblewood Park and Terra Linda Park, and the western sector has Willow Corner and Martin Luther King Jr. Park. Meanwhile, the Bethel community is home to recreation spots such as Golden Gardens Park and Dragonfly Bend, and the city’s central district has scenic destinations such as Skinner Butte Park and Owen Rose Garden. Dog owners flock to canine-friendly Alton Baker Park along the Willamette River. The city is also home to the Eugene Fencing Club as well as the Eugene Disc Golf Club. In addition, a recreational program called Adaptive Recreation Services is offered year-round at Hilyard Community Center for Eugene area children, teens and adults with disabilities. – Kevin Litwin

Rock climbing at the Columns at Skinner Butte Park in Eugene

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Education

Yes, This Will Be On the Test UO College of Education Marks Century of Training Teachers

he University of Oregon College of Education is an award-winning institute that has been training future teachers for more than a century. These days, a large portion of its 1,300 full-time students are preparing to become teachers, while the remaining students are studying to become school administrators, clinicians, social service professionals or educational research scientists. “Our graduates have an 85 percent employment rate, and the other 15 percent are either in grad school, have family commitments or moved somewhere out-of-state where they can’t find a job,” says Mike Bullis, University of Oregon College of Education dean. “Many of our graduates remain here in the Eugene area to begin their careers.” The college has four academic departments that students can choose from to study. The Department of Education Studies prepares students for the more typical career in teaching, while the Department of Counseling Psychology and Human Services features a curriculum specifically tailored to students who want to learn about psychological counseling for couples, as well as family therapy. The Department of Special Education and Clinical Sciences teaches students about communication disorders, early intervention programs, school psychology and special education. And the Department of Educational Methodology, Policy and Leadership allows students to learn mostly about school administration and educational guidelines. “We train the gamut of teaching and education candidates, from future math and science teachers, to students who will one day be clinical psychologists, to students who will eventually head education research institutes,” Bullis says. “And with this current economy, it is causing a lot more people to look into education as a career path. They couldn’t get a better start than at the UO College of Education.” – Kevin Litwin

photos by Brian M c Cord

University of Oregon

E u g ene

Community Profile

Eugene Snapshot Eugene is home to friendly, outgoing people; an environment with something for everyone â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from the rugged outdoors to quiet gardens to bustling city streets; and a collective mindset that appreciates healthy lifestyles, cultural diversity and the arts. First-rate services, excellent educational opportunities, top-notch health care and four fabulous seasons offering a year-round symphony for your senses.

CLIMATE Eugene is a city near the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highs and lows: Florence is at sea level, while the city is also close to South Sister in the Cascade Mountain range. Height: 10,385 feet/3157 meters. The city sees, on average, 43 days below freezing, 15 over 90 degrees and 140 days of precipitation, 6.4 inches of which is snow.

EDUCATION

HEALTH CARE

Area schoolchildren benefit from the Smart Ways to School program, which offers free services to help students walk, bike, carpool, or ride a bus to/from school. These services improve student safety, help students be more active, reduce traffic around schools, decrease fuel consumption and improve air quality. For a list of schools and other information, visit imageseugene.com.

The two campuses of Sacred Heart Medical Center make it one of the largest medical facilities between Portland and San Francisco, and the only Level II trauma center in Lane County. Key services include a neonatal ICU, the Oregon Heart & Vascular Institute and the Oregon Rehabilitation Center. For a breakdown of medical services, visit imageseugene.

33 F January Low Temperature

46.5 F January High Temperature

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50.8 F July Low Temperature

81.5 F July High Temperature

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