Daily
Eugene
Friday, January 23rd, 2026
Good morning, Eugene. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 23rd of January.
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ In 2005, the Wayne Morse Free Speech Plaza was dedicated in Eugene to honor the late senator who fought for free speech and championed University of Oregon autonomy in the 1930s — his legacy still guides local civic life. KVAL
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ A University of Oregon study shows that concertgoers who take photos and videos at live events are seen as less engaged & may get fewer future invitations from friends, suggesting a need for mindful phone use during performances. KVAL
- ➤ The Eugene 4J school district proposes 110 more staff cuts (95 licensed and 15 classified positions) if approved by the board, which would bring total cuts to 269 and save about $10 million to address a $30 million deficit caused by lost Covid-19 funding and declining enrollment. NBC 16
- ➤ Eugene School District 4J finalized a three-year contract with the Oregon School Employees Association for classified workers on Jan. 21, including a 5% annual increase + improved health benefits and new workplace safety measures. The agreement followed 14 bargaining sessions and is designed to support vital school staff. KEZI
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ University of Oregon and Eugene Water & Electric Board started a methane gas turbine pilot that critics say will boost fossil fuel use by 65 percent and harm air. The project was introduced without public comment and might conflict with the city's goal of 95 percent carbon-free power by 2030. KEZI
FINANCE NEWS
- ➤ Tax season will begin on Monday, Jan. 26 as taxpayers file both state and federal returns to access Oregon’s $1.41 billion kicker credit; e-filed returns are expected for refunds by Feb. 17 while paper filings may face delays (free e-filing services are available online). KEZI
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Today, Lane Transit District opened its state-of-the-art $11 million Phyllis Loobey Operations Command Center (named after its first female leader) to boost rider safety and improve transit efficiency. The facility also supports job growth and infrastructure investment in Glenwood. KVAL
- ➤ Sen. Ron Wyden spoke in Lane County Wednesday to warn that federal health care cuts could hurt local mental health and reproductive care, including Planned Parenthood. He vowed to fight the cuts & is working on a bipartisan tax extender plan that could move forward on Jan. 30. KVAL
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Gary Gulman Stand-Up Comedy Show
7-11 p.m. — Hult Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the wit and charm of Gary Gulman, whose comedy spans over 30 years and covers everything from wealth disparity to personal struggles.
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Valley River Center Model Railroad Show
10 a.m.–9 p.m. — Valley River Center — Donations appreciated — Experience a weekend of miniature magic with stunning model train displays and support local food efforts.
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KVAL Eugene Sportsmen's & Outdoor Recreation Show
12-7 p.m. (Fri), 10 a.m.-7 p.m. (Sat), 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Sun) — Lane Events Center — $9 for adults, $1 for kids 6-11 — Discover outdoor adventures with hundreds of exhibits and activities for enthusiasts of all kinds.
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Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix in Concert
2-4 p.m. — Hult Center for the Performing Arts — Tickets required — Experience the magic of Harry Potter with a live symphony orchestra performing the unforgettable score.
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Tank and the Bangas Live
7-10 p.m. — WOW Hall — Tickets available — Experience the vibrant sounds of Tank and the Bangas as they explore self-discovery and poetic expression.
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Jewelry SWAP at MECCA!
Noon-6 p.m. — MECCA — Minimum $5 donation — Bring unwanted jewelry to swap and discover new treasures while mingling with fellow enthusiasts.
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Nutrition Seminar with Dr. Teri Sue Wright & Roxanne Stone
6:30-8:00 p.m. — The Healthy Pet — Free entry — Engage in insightful discussions on holistic pet nutrition with a veterinarian and food scientist.
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Puppet Making Workshop
4-5 p.m. — Eugene Public Library — Free entry — Create your own puppet with guidance from Pegasus Puppet Theatre and enjoy puppet exploration.
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Sweetheart's Ball 2026
7:30-11:30 p.m. — WOW Hall — Tickets starting at $16.64 — Dance to indie rock tunes and celebrate love at this vibrant event.
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CATALYST - An Act Revived
6 p.m. — Hult Center for the Performing Arts — Ticketed event — Experience a vibrant aerial circus performance that ignites inspiration and hope for the future.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.
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