Magic Happens

Magic Happens

By John Winquist Magic happens!  Sometimes we help it appear, and sometimes it sneaks up on us.  Whichever way we love it. So on an ordinary family day, many years ago, we asked the question. “ What do you want to do?”  Hi up Spencer Butte.  Wait, is it Spencer’s...
The River Opportunity

The River Opportunity

By Kearstin Krehbiel Watching our kids chase each other through Alton Baker while the Willamette sparkles just beyond the trees, I can’t help but think: we’re overlooking something amazing. Eugene is a place that locals love to call home and visitors love...
In Praise of Sidewalks 

In Praise of Sidewalks 

By Kenneth Helphand I grew up in Brooklyn, New York. I walked to elementary school on sidewalks, a daily trek from 93rd street to PS 185 on 86th street. It was the beginning of what became a life-long habit of exploration and curiosity by varying my route passing...
Stubby Legs and Long Views

Stubby Legs and Long Views

A week before I summited Spencer Butte for the first time on Thanksgiving Day 1963, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas, while riding in a motorcade with his wife Jacqueline. I was almost four years old and not especially well tuned into...