Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 30th of January.
Good morning, Eugene.
Families and local advocates in Eugene are urging immediate missing-person reports to protect vulnerable youth, noting that no waiting period exists while nonprofits like Oregon Missing Persons and Eugene-based Looking Glass Community Services work with law enforcement to raise awareness amid trafficking risks.
Shantel Rice overcame active addiction — homelessness with support from Everyone Village after her home burned in March 2024.
By September 2025, she secured long-term work through an OBRC partnership and is now rebuilding her life with local help.
Girl Group, a social club that helps women forge new friendships, recently hosted a karaoke event at Round1 at the Valley River Center.
Leader Abigail Partin said the monthly gatherings—featuring activities like hiking, crafting, and book clubs—ease the awkwardness of making friends as an adult.
The University of Oregon's Sustainable City Year Program is working in Oakridge, where 482 students support 16 projects including transportation planning and workforce housing studies.
The initiative, backed by local funding and federal congressional dollars, is paving the way for real-world solutions and future community investments.
Bethel School District reported an 84.5% graduation rate (the highest in district history) according to the Oregon Department of Education for the class of 2025.
Nearby schools showed varied trends, with some improving while 4J School District experienced a slight decline leading to a review of its strategies.
Blue Lotus Chai received an innovator-level green business certification award for energy-saving efforts; meanwhile, the Mayor of Eugene and BRING Recycling launched a Green Business Grants program offering up to $1,500 for qualifying local businesses until Feb.
2.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Opiuo Live Performance
8-10 p.m. — WOW Hall — Tickets available — Experience genre-bending electronic music with Opiuo and opener rSUN.
Lunar New Year Celebration
11 AM – 2 PM — Oregon Multigenerational Community Center — Free entry — Celebrate the year of the horse with performances, activities, and community connection.
TrackTown Triathlon
Beginner-friendly triathlon — 8 a.m. — UO Rec Center — Registration Fee Required — Enjoy a vibrant and community-focused race experience with the University of Oregon Triathlon Team.
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