Only in Eugene: The 1960's Lives On In The Whiteaker Neighborhood Eugene, Oregon is not your typical town.  Especially in the Whiteaker neighborhood near downtown.  This eclectic neighborhood defies stereotypes, but I find it to be the home to some very creative and expressive citizens. A walk through the neighborhood reveals fresh discoveries that make you smile in appreciation and think to yourself, "Only in Eugene." That's what I said when I discovered this fence made of brightly painted doors at the southeast corner of 4th and Monroe.  Fourteen doors of different designs are joined together along 4th Avenue to exhibit the imaginative creativity of the artist.  Posts with baskets on top finish off the unique fence unlike any other that I've seen. Each door has a different painting ... 09/16/2013

Looking for a delicious and filling pizza in Eugene, Oregon?  Try the Pizza Research Institute (PRI) in the Whiteaker neighborhood at 530 Blair Blvd.  The pizza combinations may sound strange, but the owners have done their research when it comes to creating great tasting pizzas. The business outgrew its earlier location and is now in a renovated garage with a train car inside serving as the kitchen.  This isn't your Domino's or Papa Murphy's pizzas.  It takes a visit here to discover why so many people give it good reviews. The slices are filling, so there is usually plenty of pizza to take home.  The wait staff and fellow customers have always been friendly and helpful when I've eaten there. PRI is just one of many nice, locally owned restaurants and small businesses in the Whiteaker... 12/14/2012

When was the last time you met with your advisor to make sure you have all the proper coverages for your risk exposure? Call the insurance experts at LeDoux Insurance Agency, Inc for a free review of your insurance packages 09/09/2009

HUD's new Neighborhood Stabilization Program is designed to provide emergency assistance to local and state governments, like Eugene and Springfield to acquire and redevelop foreclosed properties. As I stated in a recent blog, Bob Briscoe, Eugene Planning and Development Department, announced to our Town Hall meeting that Eugene had recently received over $600,000 and Springfield over $300,000 under this program. The program is for owner occupied or non profit purchases only. Both cities are currently working on program guidelines that will help in the use of this money, possibly in conjunction with existing programs like the FHA 203k Streamline. Preliminary thoughts about the use of the funds will be for owner occupied purchases in targeted areas in both cities. 25% of the funds must b... 12/08/2008

More big flavors in Eugene's Whiteaker Neighborhood. I used to work in the Whiteaker, and the New Day Bakery was my frequent go-to for a quick but healthy breakfast before hitting the shop in the morning. You can count on organic ingredients, a variety of toothsome baked goods and strong coffee. Lunchtime brought out the hearty soups and sandwiches, and I don't think I ever went away hungry.           I like to meet up with friends after work for a Pint and perhaps a slice of pizza, and for that, there's no better place than Sam Bonds Garage. You will never want for conversation when you belly up to the bar, as there always seem to be some colorful, quintessential Eugeneans hanging out and expounding on topics ranging from revolution to evolution. Conspiracy theories anyone? :-)   Head ... 08/08/2008

Eugene's Whiteaker neighborhood may be small, but it's full of big flavors. Thai food is one of my favorites, and there are a number of good sources in Eugene. I've always preferred Chao Pra Ya. They've recently expanded and remodeled, but the delicious food remains the star of the show. Last night I tried the Pepper Salt Squid for the first time, and I wish I hadn't waited! Lots of good sized pieces of tender yet crispy tempura battered squid, with onions, green and red peppers in a sweet and tangy sauce. The Pad See Yew with tofu is a favorite of my wife and daughter, and the curries are great as well. The spice can be on the hot side, so go with mild if you can't handle the heat.   Equally savory, but worlds apart in character, is Papa's Soul Food Kitchen. I must confess I stayed awa... 08/07/2008

NEDCO, Neighborhood Economic Development Corporation, in Eugene and Salem is a non-profit Community Development Corporation that helps neighborhoods and families. NEDCO is a HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agency and has help hundreds of people prepare for home ownership. The Springfield Home Ownership Program and the Eugene Homeowner Assistance Program both require counseling and training prior to receiving one of their no interest loans. I have had my clients attend the course and come away much more prepared for the huge step of purchasing a home. The program they offer is called the "ABC's of Homebuying." It is a one day class designed to help understand the entire home buying process.  They also offer the Threshold Homeownership Education & Counseling Program (http://www.nedcocdc.o... 08/03/2008