The Eugene Emeralds have started their season, and I’ve heard that people in the business community would like to keep the team in Eugene. When the Emeralds needed a stadium, the chamber of commerce supported them, but we know how it turned out. 

Former general manager Allan Benavides and his staff became a part of this community. They had raised the money they needed for a new stadium, minus the stadium bond, which would have cost the average Eugene homeowner just $22 per year for 20 years. But just 29% of people voted.

It is too late, time is against keeping the team, getting the money, finding a place to build. In baseball, three strikes and you’re out. So put it to rest, it’s not going to happen and the city will never see a minor league team again.

Whatever the Emeralds did that caused people to turn against them, they will continue to support this community and provide family affordable entertainment. This community must be proud of themselves for turning their backs on the Emeralds.

Steven E. Hunnicutt
Eugene