Good morning, Eugene.

Protestors gathered Saturday at the Lane County Fairgrounds to oppose the sale of the controversial 'Alligator Alcatraz' shirt—organizer Karma Smith said the protest promoted a message of welcoming immigrants—while fair officials explained that renting county property does not imply an endorsement of the vendor's message. Officials are coordinating with Eugene Police and the county sheriff to ensure safety during the event.

Firefighters in Eugene used chainsaws to access an abandoned house on Floral Hill Dr that caught fire Saturday around 7:30 a.m.—narrow, windy roads delayed their approach while cool, humid conditions helped prevent a larger wildfire, and officials declared the home a total loss with no injuries reported.

Oregon businesses are urged to prepare for hazardous wildfire smoke that can cause serious health issues and disrupt operations.

Employers should update emergency plans, monitor active fires and air quality, and adjust work assignments appropriately—ensuring safety during prolonged smoke events.

Eugene coffee shops are facing higher costs as tariffs and inflation push up prices for beans and supplies - owners at Coffee Plant Roaster and Wandering Goat said they will soon raise prices to keep up.

This increase comes as suppliers charge 20-30 percent more and small items like filters double in cost.

An 18 year old was arrested on July 27 for a shooting on Broadway St in Eugene that occurred on November 1, 2024, and he now faces charges including two counts of Attempted Assault in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and three counts of Reckless Endangering.

Eugene police & Springfield police arrested 18-year-old Damyen Lee Marshall Peterson on Sunday for a shooting on Broadway St. on November 1, 2024, and he now faces charges of two counts of attempted assault in the first degree, unlawful use of a weapon, and three counts of reckless endangerment.

Eugene will see its economy boost this weekend when it hosts the 2025 USA Track and Field Championships at Hayward Field—Travel Lane County estimates the event could bring tens of millions of dollars to local shops, hotels, and restaurants.

On July 28, the City Club of Eugene hosted a DEI program where educators and local activists explained how new federal directives affect funding and policy, particularly highlighting challenges due to sanctuary status.

Speakers detailed changes in education and urged forming local partnerships—imperfect allies—to support lasting change.

Nevada passed a law that lets bachelor’s degree-trained behavioral health specialists offer their services in schools and other settings—an idea that came from a grassroots effort started in Oregon.

University of Oregon’s Ballmer Institute trains students in stress management and conflict resolution for child mental health, and a similar law in Oregon may follow as the first student cohort is set to graduate in June 2026.

Eugene Oakshire Inspires Fundraiser for Elakha Alliance

10 a.m. – 11 p.m. — Oakshire Public House — $1 from each Oakshire Pint — Support sea otter restoration efforts with a pint!

Springfield Drifters vs. Corvallis Knights

1:35–5:35 a.m. — Hamlin Sports Complex — Free entry for kids under 12 with paid adult — Don't miss the last home showdown of the season between I-5 rivals!

Springfield Drifters vs. Corvallis Knights

11:05 p.m. — Drifters Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Experience an exciting baseball battle as the Drifters take on the Knights.

Skills Camp: Elementary Volleyball

9 AM – 12 PM — Bob Keefer Center — Registration fee required — Enhance volleyball skills through drills and friendly competition.

All The Things You Are - Jerome Kern Concert

1:30–3:30 p.m. — The Shedd Institute — $25 — Enjoy notable jazz interpretations from the classics of Jerome Kern performed by Chuck Redd and company.

Venture: Week 9 Out and About Camp

8 AM – 4 PM — Bob Keefer Center — Registration required — A fun-filled week for campers featuring disc golf, bowling, and an acrylic painting class.

Gentle Yoga with Yoga Nidra

12:30-2 p.m. — Eugene Yoga South — $20 — Experience relaxation and healing through yoga and mindfulness techniques, culminating in a restorative Yoga Nidra meditation.

Springfilm: Edge of Tomorrow Screening

6:30-10:00 p.m. — Richard E. Wildish Community Theater — Free entry — Experience the thrilling time-bending adventure of Edge of Tomorrow with Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt.

TREASVRE Live at The Hybrid

7 p.m. — The Hybrid — Ticket info not provided — Experience the debut of alt-rock group TREASVRE releasing their LP, KINTSUGI, in Eugene.

Tracy Bonham Live Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — WOW Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the quirky and heartfelt musical journey of GRAMMY-nominated artist Tracy Bonham as she showcases her new album and classic hits.