Eugene, OR is a major city of the Pacific Northwest, the second largest city in Oregon and the county seat of Lane county. Population 156,185 with a median income of $35,800 and a median age of 47. It is located at the south end of the Willamette river where the McKenzie and Willamette river meet. It is noted for its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, focus on the arts and residents with alternative lifestyles. Eugene's slogan is "A Great City for the Arts and Outdoors". It is also referred to as the "Emerald City' and as "Track Town USA". The Nike corporation was started in Eugene. It was named after its founder, Eugene Franklin Skinner. He built a cabin that turned into a trading post and later a post office. The rest is history.
Valley River Center is a super regional class shopping mall in Eugene. It is the largest shopping center between Portland, OR and San Fransisco, CA with over 130 local and national stores and restaurant. It is located on the banks of the Willamette river and is also accessible by bike and walking paths.
We made a stop in Eugene so that I could visit my high school track coach Lyndell Wilken. She made a huge impact in my life and I will always be grateful to her. She taught me that through hard work anything was possible and she was right. Lyndell made a difference in several girls lives when she was a teacher at GBS and I am sure we all appreciate her very much. We met at the Valley River Center because it would have a big enough parking lot for the RV. Tim opted out of lunch and walked Shadow along the river while Lyndell and I took a walk to the Valley River Inn for lunch. There we got all caught up again, it had been 30 years since we had seen each other. We had a great time especially talking about the track team members and all the things we use to do. I think a Track reunion will be happening soon! Thanks Lyndell for a great afternoon.
We continued to Bend over the Cascade Mountains and the drive was beautiful! There is so much to do in Bend that I hope we can squeeze it all in. We will do our best!
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