Author: Lauren

Time To Get Your Culture On

Hult Center for the Performing Arts

Photo Source: Hult Center for the Performing Arts via Facebook

Eugene is a renowned destination for the culture seeker. From the University of Oregon to its beautiful parks and historic architecture, a day spent in Eugene is bound to leave to visitors inspired.

Nowhere is that more true than at these must-visit locations:

Museum of Natural and Cultural History

Breathe in that Pre-Historic Oregonian air! The Museum of Natural and Cultural history is an incomparable look into Oregon’s distant past, a good 300 million years of history in the making.

Witness the saber tooth salmon, the giant sloth, the buzz saw sharks, or head on over to the Glen Starlin Native Plant Courtyard, a research collection of over 120 of Oregon’s native plants.

Oregon Air and Space Museum

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s the Oregon Air and Space Museum! Explore its collection of various aircrafts and artifacts chronicling the history of air and space travel. We recommend taking a guided tour to get a first-hand account of aeronautical history from a former aviator as they lead you through the museum.

Be sure to visit during the Oregon Air and Space Museum’s special events, which include air fairs, dinner speakers, fly-ins, and more!

Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art

Nothing inspires the mind quite as much as a first hand look at the masterworks of some of history’s most influential artists. From photography to sculpture to painting to manuscripts you can find it all at the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art.

The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art also offers various ways to get involved with regularly hosted workshops and events throughout the year.

Hult Center for The Performing Arts

Located in the heart of Downtown Eugene’s art district, the Hult Center for the Performing Arts is a one-stop shop for stage shows and concerts. Fans of the ballet and The Book of Mormon alike will find themselves at home here. After the show, be sure to check out the permanent art collection on display throughout the venue. When we say there’s something for everyone at the Hult Center for the Performing Arts, we mean it.

Oregon Contemporary Theatre

Theatre in the truest sense of the word! Behold hilarious comedies, tear-wrenching dramas, and toe-tapping musicals all in a one of Eugene’s top playhouses.

Looking to take some theatre or playwriting classes? The Oregon Contemporary Theatre has you covered. For the bolder among you looking to steal the spotlight, the Oregon Contemporary Theatre hosts annual auditions to join their roster.  They also have a vibrant volunteer program and great opportunities for practicum students and interns.

Cascades Raptor Center

No, not those kind of raptors.

The Cascades Raptor Center houses one of the Pacific Northwest’s largest collections of birds of prey (over 50 species)! Eagles, Hawks, and Owls are just some of the usual suspects you’ll find in the center’s aviaries.

Tending to these beautiful creatures is a lot of work, so if you’re an animal lover looking for a way to become involved and make a difference why not volunteer and lend a hand?

Smith Family Bookstore

For an avid reader there’s a unique thrill in finding a long sought-after book. The Smith Family Bookstore is the ideal hunting ground for anyone desperately searching for that elusive signed copy of Confederacy of Dunces. They even buy and resell course textbooks so be sure to check-in at the start of the term to give your wallet a little breathing room.

With two branches in Eugene (University of Oregon campus and one downtown) you’ll have countless, countless books to choose from.

Eugene Public Library

You may be asking yourself “did they really just suggest the public library?” You’re absolutely right we did. Eugene residents get a free library card granting access to books, TV shows, movies, magazines, audio books, CDs and even video games! Treat yourself to some of the classics without spending a dime or cluttering your bookshelves.

Did you know that with Overdrive or similar apps you can be renting digital books for free just by having a library card? That’s right, you don’t even have to leave the house anymore.

When you’re done soaking in the vast teachings of the past, head on over to Sizzle Pie for a slice. Not a bad way to spend a day.

Organizing and Cleaning Your Apartment Tips and Tricks

Apartment Cleaning Tips

Spring is just around the corner, and for many, that means Spring Break!  Before you hit the road, consider taking a little time to do some Spring Cleaning.  Messy apartments are just small messes that accumulate over time. Deal with messes as they’re made and cleaning will be easier in the long run. Consider these helpful tips to keep things looking great throughout the year.

Keep A Cleaning Schedule

You may have seen this tip in our Roommate Etiquette 101 post but it’s so useful we’re going to mention it again! Keeping a cleaning schedule not only ensures that your living space will look fantastic but also clears up any ambiguity of who cleans what. Too much time is wasted bickering over which mess is whose responsibility.

Wipe Down Your Counters

Wipe down your countertop surfaces every other day to ensure that any spills and residue are removed and that germs are disinfected.

Mop Your Floor

Now that you’re done wiping down the counters pass the mop on the floor to clean up any dirt that may have fallen below.

Clean Out The Fridge

It’s hard to look towards the future when you’re bringing along the expired foods of 2015. Give the fridge a good wipe down and toss out any food that’s gone bad.

Organize Your Bathroom Cabinets

Do you open your bathroom cabinets only to find shampoo and conditioner bottles collapsed on each other? How about snaking cords from dryers and razors? Try grouping your products by use (shampoos, conditioners, gels…) at least once a week. You’ll see how much easier it is to get ready in the morning.

Clean Your Toilets and Shower

This is no one’s favorite part of the cleaning cycle but it’s very important. Aim to clean your toilet and shower at least once every two weeks.

Get That Junk Off Your Table Surfaces

A coffee table can have some coasters on it, some remote controls, and even a coffee table book. What it shouldn’t have is mail piling up and random things that were never put away. Toss out what’s useless and put away what isn’t and you’ll see how much better it feels to have some open table space.

Pass The Vacuum

Dust gets everywhere, and it’s even more prevalent in common areas such as the living room. Pass the vacuum throughout the house at least once every two weeks (more often is advisable).

Launder Your Bed Sheets

Toss your bed sheets into the laundry at least once every two weeks. You’ll see the difference that sleeping in clean sheets makes.

Make Your Bed

Make your bed each day, if possible before leaving the house. There’s a psychological benefit to coming home to a made bed every day and you’ll start the day with something already accomplished

There, now you have a clean, organized apartment and some easy to follow schedules to guarantee it stays that way until you move out. Best of luck!

photo credit: Red Couch Project Set 10 (65 of 70) via photopin (license)

 

 

 

A Hike Up Spencer’s Butte

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Feeling in a rut?  Roommates got you down?  Too much studying and need to get away?   Spencer’s Butte is a favorite destination for students, couples, even families to recharge and reconnect with nature. You’ve probably seen it if you’ve spent any time at all in downtown Eugene… it’s kind of hard to miss, after all.

You’ll be hard pressed to find a better spot to spend a day. Trust us, we’ve looked. You can typically expect to spend anywhere from 1-6 hours to reach Spencer Butte’s summit depending on which trail and pace you wish to take.

The Main Trail is a 700 foot climb over 1.08 miles, whereas the West Route is a 700 foot climb over 0.6 miles. How you decide to head up is up to you. Mountain bikes are not permitted but dogs are so bring your furry buddy with you just as long as you keep them on a leash.

If you’re thinking of taking up the trail consider these tips:

Don’t Leave Valuables in Your Car

Unless you’re in the market for a broken car window and a stolen iPhone avoid leaving valuables in the car.

Wear Hiking Boots

Sneakers won’t cut it, you need boots with a proper traction for hiking. Trails could be rendered slick by the weather and you’ll want the grip hiking boots provide.

Wear a Hat

After an hour or two in the sun you’ll be kicking yourself if you don’t bring a hat with you. Shade’s always welcome when trekking uphill.

Wear Sunblock

Always. Wear. Sunblock. Even if it’s overcast. Nothing worse than coming home peeling and raw from a big day out.

Use The Bathroom Before Heading Up the Trail

Yeah… nobody wants to have to deal with that halfway up the trail.

Bring Snakebite/Itchiness Kit

Pack a snakebite kit should the absolute worst happen, as well as something to deal with itchiness. And while we’re on the subject of itchiness…

Leaves of Three? Leave it Be

Be aware of the presence of Poison Oak throughout the hiking trail. We probably don’t need to say it but… don’t touch ’em.

Stay Hydrated

Bring a refillable bottle of water with you to stay hydrated on the trail.

Hike In a Group

Not only is it more fun, it’s safer too! Help each other out and avoid perilous situations.

Leave The Area Better Than You Found It

Toss your trash in a bin! If you see someone else’s trash littered why not pick it up and toss it too? And of course do not damage the natural elements of the hike: trees, boulders, flowers, etc.

Take Pictures

We mean it, the view up on Spencer Butte’s one of a kind. Take some pictures to brag the next time someone asks you how you spent your weekend.

 

photo credit: David and his new D5000 via photopin (license)

5 Safety Tips for College Campuses

Crime is an unfortunate byproduct of our time. Everybody encounters it in some way, shape, or form. Though experiencing some form of crime is inevitable , there are helpful habits that you can adopt today to minimize your exposure to nefarious elements.

Avoid Walking Alone At Night

No matter how safe you think a city is you should strongly avoid walking alone after dark. Minimize your risk by staying in a group and using the buddy system. Have your friends escort you when possible (and do the same for them).

If however no one’s available then consider using your campus escort service for a safe ride home. In the case of University of Oregon the number is 541-346-2919.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Don’t walk around with headphones on or with your attention focused solely on your phone. By not paying attention to your surroundings you may find yourself the target to some unscrupulous characters or an inattentive driver.

Awareness also means being cognizant of your location Avoiding visiting areas you’re unfamiliar with at night and use a map app to know where you’re heading by day.

Keep Your Doors Locked

It doesn’t matter if it’s the door to your apartment, your car, or your dorm room – keep it locked! Thought it won’t always stop an intruder it will certainly make their job much more difficult.

Of course, all the locks in the world count for very little if you open them. Be conscientious of who you’re allowing into your apartment. If you don’t know them don’t let them in.

Save Your Campus Security Number

First and foremost, in case of an emergency the number you should dial is 911.

In non-emergency situations you can call your campus security office. If you’re a University of Oregon student the non-emergency number to save is 541-346-2919. If you’re on campus then dial 6-2919.

Know Where Campus Emergency Systems Are

University campuses utilize emergency help systems known as e-boxes/callboxes to request immediate assistance. Familiarize yourself with the locations of these systems and use them should a situation arise. For your convenience please find attached a map of Emergency Phone Locations.

 

If all else fails you can always try learning self defense. Be safe out there!

For some more safety tips visit our Essential Tips for Cyclists in Eugene page.

 

 

photo credit: Light in a dark alley. via photopin (license)

Five Fabulous Local Parks to Visit this Spring

Hendricks Park
Hendricks Park in Eugene Oregon. Source: wunderground.com

Sure, it may be cold and wet outside now but the blissful days of spring and summer will be here before you know it!  Next time we have a warm sunny day in the weather forecast, we recommend getting outdoors!  These five local parks are an ideal spot to soak up some Vitamin D and enjoy some much needed downtime.

#1 Hendricks Park

With 80 acres of stunning gardens and incredible views, Hendricks Park is a must for any nature lover. It’s the oldest park in Eugene and it’s never quite as noticeable (or incredible) as when you’re walking beneath the branches of 200-year old fir trees.  If you want a real treat make sure to visit in the spring when the flowers are in bloom.

In short, this park is ideal for anyone with an interest in hiking, bird watching, picnicking, or simply looking to relax in nature.

#2 Alton Baker Park

When we say Alton Baker is Eugene’s largest developed park, we mean it. At a whopping 373 acres there’s no shortage of space and facilities to take advantage of. Walking your dog, fishing, BMX, exercise stations, and disc golf are just a few of the options available to you at Alton Baker Park.

#3 Skinner’s Butte Park

If someone were asked to describe Skinner’s Butte in two words, they’d be “Rock Climbing.” The Columns of Skinner’s Butte offer a 50′ high rock wall that climbers can scale.

But don’t be fooled in thinking that’s all Skinner’s Butte has to offer. It’s also a pretty fantastic spot for a picnic or to ride your bike. You can even go ahead and grow your own vegetables in the community garden!

#4 Owen Rose Garden

Though the smallest park on the list at 8.5 acres, the Owen Rose Garden is no less spectacular. Named after George E. Owen who donated the parcels of land, the park has grown from an initial 750 roses to over 400 varieties displayed across 4,500 roses.

Though you can enjoy the sights of the park at your leisure, there is also the possibility of volunteering to lend a hand. The Owen Rose Garden organizes year-round Thursday work sessions where you can help manage these beautiful parks and get on some hands on experience in pruning, planting, and general rose care.

#5 Amazon Park

Though it might be easier to list the things you can’t do at Amazon Park, we’ll try to cover just a few of the activities available in the 99-acre park. There’s tennis courts, soccer fields, a skate-park, baseball diamonds, ball fields, a community garden, picnic tables, recreation centers, bike paths, a dog park, and exercise stations.

Perhaps most important of all, however, is the fact it contains Eugene’s only outdoor pool in its recreation facilities. When Summer comes around you’ll want to keep Amazon Park in mind.

10 Wellness Tips for Students

Exercise

Being a student is difficult enough without having to deal with illness and exhaustion.  In this cold season it’s more important than ever to take proper care of yourself.

1) Always Wash Your Hands

Make sure to wash your hands often, especially during cold and flu season. A simple cleaning can help minimize your exposure to disease.

2) Drink 2 Liters of Water a Day

Drinking enough water is the corner stone of living a healthy lifestyle. The current recommendation is that the average person should drink at least 2 liters of water a day, so make sure you bring a bottle with you when you head out to class.

3) Get 7-9 Hours Sleep

Too often a full night’s sleep is put aside in favor of homework, socializing, or browsing the internet. Aim to get 7-9 hours of sleep and you’ll immediately feel the effects in the morning. It goes without saying that you should avoid all nighters whenever possible, or you’ll be feeling like a zombie the next day.

4) Don’t Eat or Drink Right Before Bed

Eating and drinking (caffeine, alcohol) will affect your internal clock and leave you with a not-so-restful sleep.  Leave at least a few hours between meals and heading to bed.

5) Find Time to Exercise

Exercise doesn’t have to mean going to the gym to work out (although it’s great if you can). Walk or bike to class instead of driving to add some easy exercise to your life. You can also play a sport on the weekend with friends or through your school’s teams.

6) Eat Three Meals a Day

The benefits of eating three meals a day for your immune system and energy levels are huge. Always start the day with a good breakfast. If you don’t have time for a sit down lunch or dinner, bring a packed meal with you so you can have something to eat throughout the day.

7) If You’re Sick, Stay Home

We know there’s pressure to go to class even if you’re unwell, but the truth is you’re doing yourself and your classmates no favors by going to class sick. You’ll end up feeling worse and potentially pass the disease onto your colleagues.

8) Get a Flu Shot

A flu shot can be the very thing that prevents weeks of discomfort and illness. Check with the University Health Center on the U of O Campus.

9) Take A Break

Stress is a huge factor in fatigue and illness, so give yourself a break now and then! Take some time to see friends, play a video game, or read.

10) When In Doubt, See a Doctor

If you’re feeling unwell and your symptoms are not improving then no one can help quite as much as a doctor can. Your campus clinic or your personal doctor will be able to give you a checkup and suggest the necessary steps towards a full recovery.

 

 

 

 

Roommate Etiquette 101

Roommates

Whether it’s a friend or a stranger having a roommate can be an amazing shared experience… but not one that comes without a little work. By simply taking a few steps you can ensure you and your roommate will always remain simpatico and get the most out of your living arrangement.

Step #1 Establish Guidelines From The Start

Avoid unnecessary arguments by establishing clear guidelines early on. Agreeing on schedules and day-to-day rules helps avoid misunderstandings and annoyed housemates.

Some suggested topics to cover include:

  • Bill paying procedures
  • Cleaning Schedule
  • Dirty dishes policy
  • Significant others coming over
  • Sleeping habits
  • Noise levels
  • Drinking habits
  • Pet policy
  • Allergies and general health requirements

Step #2 Respect Each Other’s Personal Space

It’s always a good idea to not enter your roommate’s space without their permission. Think about it, would you want someone entering your room when you’re not there?

Step #3 Respect Each Other’s Belongings

Unless you have an agreed upon rule for sharing food try to be mindful of your roommate’s food. There’s nothing worse than coming home after a long day dreaming of your left-over pizza only to find it eaten by someone else.

This rule also extends to personal belongings. Nothing stirs up bad feelings quite like the notion of someone rifling through your private stuff.

See this? Don't do this.

Step #4 Clean Up After Yourself

Even if a cleaning schedule is agreed on you should always be mindful to pick up after yourself. Certainly don’t leave trash or opened food lying around or an angry roommate will be the least of your troubles.

Step #5 Address Concerns

Bottling up feelings of annoyance will lead to an eventual explosive argument. Speak your mind as problems emerge and work together to find solutions. Whether the problems are big or small you will always be better of for addressing them openly.

Step #6 Don’t Expect To Be Best Friends

Though it’s certainly possible you may end up being best friends with your roommate, the expectation it will happen can often create an uncomfortable dynamic for a roommate. Be friendly but also be aware that their interests, schedules, and friends may not align with yours.

Step #7 Be Open To Change

Living with a stranger (or even a friend) will inevitably bring about new experiences and customs. You should always try to keep an open mind to these differences and change and go with the flow.

Step #8 Remember It’s A Shared Space

What’s most important to remember is that the home you occupy is a shared one. If you’re bringing people over, give your roommate some warning. Before blasting your rock music at 3AM, remember your roommate is one wall over and probably asleep. If you are leaving trash out, don’t forget someone else could be coming home to it.

If you stick to these rules you should be well on your way to having a comfortable shared space. Best of luck!

Why You Definitely Need Renters Insurance

Tornado
(That can’t be good…)

 

No matter how prepared you are, life comes with unexpected risks. Be it by theft or a flood or a malfunctioning clothes dryer, in a moment you could face the loss of your personal belongings or your home. Can you afford to bet against these risks by not having renters insurance?

Too many people decide against renters insurance because they simply think their stuff is just not valuable enough to protect. Is this really the case?

Your stuff is worth more than you think

Look around at the possessions in your home: computer, bike, clothes, television, iPhone, that strange Angolan scarf your mom gave you. Start adding up the value of how much it would cost to replace all these items. It’s pretty high, right?

According to the USAA, new renters typically have about $20,000 worth of belongs. Not only is that a ton of money but it’s the last thing you’d want to worry about in a time of crisis.

That’s where renter’s insurance comes in.

Replacement Cost Coverage

The ideal policy is one that has replacement cost coverage over cash value.

A replacement cost coverage policy would pay out the cost of buying a new item to replace the ones you lost. A cash value policy would instead pay the cash value of the item lost at the time of its loss.

These policies mean the difference between a payment for a brand new computer and a payment based on the current cash value of your five year old computer.

Renters Insurance Computer
So, about the replacement cost coverage…

Protection against severe natural events

Did you know that the United States has more tornados than anywhere else in the world?  Ensure that your policy not only covers you for fire but also covers you in case of flooding, earthquakes, tornados, and any other nature disaster.

Coverage doesn’t just extend to your home

Renters insurance can also be extended outside of your home. If someone breaks into your car and steals your bag from inside, your renters insurance would cover that too.

It covers your neighbor’s property

Renters Insurance
Oh great, the dishwasher in 3B is acting up again.

(What would happen if your washing machine goes haywire floods into your neighbor’s apartment? Renters insurance would include a liability to cover you in these instances for any damage incurred.

Liability Insurance

This policy should also cover you against a lawsuit should someone hurt themselves in your apartment. This is not just limited to guests, service providers and repair individuals would be covered too in case of injury in your property.

Landlord insurance is not enough

Your landlord’s insurance may cover damage to the carpet or to the walls but it will not cover your personal belongings.

It’s Affordable

Renters Insurance can start as low as $12 to $15 dollars a month. A small price to pay when you consider the coverage it affords.

 

Essential Tips for Cyclists in Eugene, Oregon

Biking in Eugene OregonIf you’re a U of O student, which many of our tenants are, chances are you will rely on bicycling for some (if not all) of your transportation needs.  The good news is you’re in the right town. Eugene, Oregon is one of the most bike friendly cities in the country!

Did you know we rank 7th on the list of Top 20 Cities with the Highest Share of Bicyclists in the country? It’s safe to say that if you’re reading this then you’re probably a proud cyclist yourself. But whether you’re a long-time cyclist or new to the scene there are several things you should keep in mind to ensure a long, positive bike ownership.

BIKE REGISTRATION

In case of theft, registration of your bike can be the difference between recovering your bike or not.  If you’re a student of the University of Oregon, bike registration is required by the Department of Parking and Transportation for all bikes on campus. But the best part? It’s free!

Here are some simple steps to register your bike:

  1. Fill out the form on Eugene-or.gov’s Bike Registration page. If you’re a University of Oregon student you can also register through project529.com.
  1. If you apply through Eugene-or.gov’s page, a registration decal will be sent to you once your application is processed. If you’re registering through the University of Oregon then you can pick your decal through the Department of Parking and Transportation.

BIKE SAFETY AND LAWS

Always Wear a Helmet – Protect your head!

Wear Reflective Clothing – Bright colors will keep you visible during the day, and reflective colors will increase your visibility at night.

Obey The Laws of The Road – As a biker you follow the same rules of the road that cars do. Always obey traffic signs and signals.

Ride On The Right – Ride on the right side of the road and follow the flow of traffic.

Keep The Lights On – Bikes are required by Oregon law to have lights and reflectors both on the front and back.

Take Those Buds Out – Avoid wearing ear buds or headphones to keep your hearing free for traffic.

LOCK YOUR BIKE

  • We advise investing in a reliable U-Lock of at least $50, as cheaper locks are easier to bypass.
  • Always lock your bike when you’re not using it, even if you are only away from it briefly.
  • Be aware that no lock is foolproof. A determined thief will be able to break one given enough time. Avoid leaving your bike locked outdoors overnight and keep it indoors or in your garage whenever possible.

WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF A THEFT

File a police report. Fill out a police report via their online form.

Register your bike as stolen at webikeeugene.com. By providing this information bike shops, pawns shops, and others, We Bike Eugene increases the possibilities of your bike being recognized and reported. It’s a free community driven service that anyone can use.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Eugene Oregon Bike Maps

Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals

Eugene Bicyclist

Greater Eugene Area Riders

Oregon Bike Manual

OR Bike

We Bike Eugene

Project 529

Decorating Your Rental on a Budget – Part Two

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So you found an apartment and now you want to make it feel more like a home without spending a fortune. We know that decorating can be a challenge when your options are limited by rental rules.

Apartment Curtains

Make your windows a work of art. There are numerous ways to creatively dress up your windows without it costing a fortune.

  • Before you begin, measure your windows (starting from where you will install the curtain rod). This will help you determine how much fabric you will need (consult with a local fabric store to help you determine how much fabric you will need for this project)
  • Look for a basic medium-weight fabric such as cotton or a cotton-linen blend so it is easy to work with. Bright colors or patterns will give a refreshing contrast to the monotone white walls in your apartment.
  • To make your ceilings seem taller, hang the curtains 6-10 inches above the window.
  • Consult with a DYI website to get easy sewing tips on simple curtains. If you don’t sew, you can always use an adhesive fabric tape.
  • Hang your homemade curtains with inexpensive clip rings which can be purchased at most hardware stores or any Target or Walmart.
  • If you want an even easier window treatment, you can of course purchase inexpensive pre-made curtains at most stores. Fabric shower-curtains are another option, and are easy to install. You can even make a window valance using a scarf or a tablecloth.

Decide on your color scheme and stick...Blending colors that contrast with white walls will make the space feel more open. Cool colors like green, turquoise, blue, and purple can make a room feel more spacious and elegant. Warm colors like orange, yellow, and red can make the space appear cozy and intimate.

 

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photo credit: June:22 via photopin (license)