Lauren Poth, PhD
Pediatric Neuropsychology
“I love being able to work with children directly, as well as providing their families important information regarding their strengths and weaknesses to inform a comprehensive, targeted treatment plan.”
Dr. Poth was born and raised in Los Alamos, NM and completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology at the University of New Mexico. She moved to San Diego, CA, to complete her doctoral degree in clinical psychology and specializes in pediatric neuropsychology.
Dr. Poth approaches patient care from the scientist-practitioner foundation. She begins with understanding the current evidence base and incorporates each patient’s unique presenting factors to identify what contributes to their functional, everyday difficulties.
Pediatric Neuropsychology Evaluations
Pediatric neuropsychology evaluations seek to clarify your child’s neurobehavioral strengths and weaknesses. Evaluations typically begin with an intake appointment during which Dr. Poth will ask questions about your child’s development, history, and your current concerns. Next, your child will come in person to complete the testing appointment, which typically takes about 4-5 hours and consists of various activities, including paper and pencil tasks and computer-based tasks. Finally, Dr. Poth will meet with you for the feedback appointment to discuss the evaluation results, diagnoses, and recommendations, which will then be available in a comprehensive report.
Pediatric Neuropsychology evaluations may be helpful for:
• Medical conditions (such as epilepsy or brain tumors)
• Genetic disorders (such as Trisomy X Syndrome)
• Learning disorders (such as dyslexia or math disorders)
• At tention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
• Other developmental conditions (such as intellectual disabilities or autism spectrum disorders)
Practice Location
Aumann Building
444 NW Elks Drive, Corvallis, OR 97330
Appointments: (541) 754-1288
Internship: University of California, Los Angeles Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Los Angeles, CA, 2020
Fellowship: Advanced Neurobehavioral Health of Southern California, San Diego, CA, 2022
Education: PhD, Clinical Psychology, San Diego State University/University of California, San Diego Joint Doctoral Program, San Diego, CA, 2020; MS, Clinical Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, 2016; BS, Psychology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 2012
Certification: Licensed Psychologist
Photos by Marilla Kay
meet the experts
[They know what they’re talking about]
Health
Let’s Talk Health with Samaritan Health Services, page 6
Home
Reimagine Your Home with Rylee Henderer, page 8
Vacation
Vacation MOM with Donnita Bassinger, CTC, MCC, page 22
Natural
Natural Choices with Jasmin Woodside, page 7
Pets
Pets are Family with Dr. Josiah Moses, page 10
Beauty
Time for MOM with Michelle Leach, page 15
Thrive
Helping Kids Thrive with Karen Swanger, page 12
Say Cheese
Say Cheese with Dr. Wade Haslam, page 23
Learn
Partners in Education with Anna Marie Gosser, page 14
Focus
Focus on MOM with Dr. Carli Lancaster, page 28
Smile
Something to Smile About with Dr. Jay Vaikuntam page 30
Publisher
Matthew Nelson, Active Media, Inc PO Box 672, Aurora OR 97002-0672 info@activemediausa.com 503-825-2100
Editor-in-Chief
Managing Director
Audrey Meier DeKam audrey@mommag.com
Mid-Valley & Lane County Business Development Manager Linda Blair linda@mommag.com 541-231-7250
Marion & Polk County Business Development Manager
Kim Leighty kim.leighty@mommag.com 503-510-9036
Designer Sean Carver sean@activemediausa.com
Editor’s Note
It takes making a village
The moment you enter motherhood is overwhelming: for many of us, it’s looking into the eyes of a newborn and feeling a powerful love…followed by an equally powerful fear of wondering how we’re supposed to keep this tiny new human alive. There’s a persistent idea that instincts will kick in and we’ll just figure it out, but those instincts don’t show up for everyone. And I’d argue there is nothing more complcated on this planet than humans, yet we’re expected to just wing it? Throw that idea away like a saturated overnight pull-up.
In the last few decades, parenting education has grown into the mainstream, and for good reason: it truly helps. When I was reading What to Expect When You’re Expecting (and alternately fascinated and horrified), I came to realize there is only so much you can learn on your own before you need to connect with others. I signed up for an expectant parenting class through my local hospital, which was one of the best parenting decisions I ever made because it set me on a course of finding my village.
That phrase, it takes a village to raise a child. It turns out that the village doesn’t just appear at your doorstep when you really need it, like on those days when your toddler has you questioning karma or your teenager has lobbed an insult at you that cuts to the quick. If you have a loving extended family who lives nearby, you are lucky. Many parents do not have that luxury and must create their village through friends, neighbors and others. It takes extra work, but you do get to handpick the members.
And how do you find these candidates? Again, try a parenting class. I’m still connected to the mom friends from my first “baby class” where we swapped tips on teething and potty training. Now those babies are driving, and we share intel on how to lower our insurance costs. The need for learning never stops, and it’s far better to have your village to draw upon for advice. For parenting classes, look to your local community college, birthing centers, and often in this magazine. Parenting is much better with support. And bonus: you might find folks who are worthy of permanent residence in your village.
Audrey Meier DeKam Editor-in-Chief
QA
Have a question you forgot to discuss at the doctor’s office or are too embarrassed to ask? The experts at Samaritan Health Services are here to help.
Q: Is it necessary for my child to have a well-child check every year?
A: Oregon has prioritized kindergarten readiness so children will enter kindergarten ready to learn and succeed. Annual well-child visits help your child’s doctor determine whether any health concerns may get in the way of your child succeeding.
A well-child check enables your doctor to get to know your child. It sets the stage for your child to stay on track with physical, emotional and social developmental milestones every year.
Here’s what to expect during your child’s visit:
• Measurements.
• Head-to-toe exam.
• Immunization updates.
• Time to talk.
Our role as primary care providers helping prepare children for kindergarten starts in the nursery, where we screen children for hearing deficits to facilitate normal speech development.
We continue to track their developmental progress, referring children whose development is lagging for further evaluation,
Q: I can’t afford health insurance for my family. How can I find out if my children qualify for Medicaid?
A: It’s important for every Oregon resident to have access to quality health care, regardless of income. The Oregon Health Plan can help when other insurance options aren’t possible.
OHP covers health care services children and teens need to thrive, such as well-child checks, vaccinations, mental health care, dental care and prescriptions. It also covers labs, X-rays and hospital care. It even pays for rides to and from medical appointments.
Brought to you by:
enrollment in early intervention or extra therapies. As kindergarten nears, well-child check-ups take on more importance in ensuring that children are ready to start their educational journey. If you haven’t already this year, please schedule your child’s well-child check. Call 541-348-7877 if you are a patient of Mid-Valley Children’s Clinic, or 541-721-8224 if you are a patient of another Samaritan clinic providing well-child checks.
— Edward Frothingham, MD, Mid-Valley Children’s Clinic
There are many different programs covered under OHP. The plan is free for those who meet certain requirements. Learn more and find out if your family qualifies by going online to ONE.Oregon.gov.
Some things to know: All children 19 and younger may be eligible regardless of immigration status. There is no enrollment period — you can apply any time during the year.
The InterCommunity Health Network CCO (IHN-CCO) is the Oregon Health Plan administrator in Benton, Lincoln and Linn counties. Learn more at IHNtogether.org.
Come to First Alternative Natural Foods Co-op for all of your grocery needs. It’s the natural choice.
Sweet potato of mine
If you like traditional potatoes, try incorporating their tasty, tuber cousin into your cooking — sweet potatoes! These kid-pleasing dishes are rich in fiber, carbs and vitamins. A few easy ways to try them:
Candied sweet potatoes
To make a vitamin-A packed dish that will melt in your mouth, peel and cut several sweet potatoes into one-inch chunks. Toss them in enough melted butter to coat them before stirring in a generous scoop of brown sugar and pinches of cinnamon, ground ginger and salt to taste. Cook in a covered baking dish in a 375degree oven until they are easily pierced with a fork. Serve warm.
Sweeten up your mash
With very little modification, your favorite mashed potato recipe can become your favorite mashed sweet potato recipe. Milk and/ or butter go just as well in either mash-up. To complement the sweet taste, you can try adding in a tablespoon or two of brown sugar or maple syrup when you’re mixing everything together. Experiment with replacing just one or two potatoes with an equally-sized sweet. It will add a delicious flavor and bump up the vitamins and antioxidants.
Jasmin Woodside of First Alternative Co-op
her children.
BEAUTIFUL BATHROOMS
The fast-approaching holiday season is a time for family, friends and festive gatherings. As you prepare your home for the influx of guests, don’t overlook one of the most frequently used spaces: the bathroom.
FOCUS ON FUNCTIONALITY
Start by considering the functionality. Ensure there is enough space for guests to move around comfortably. If you have a small bathroom, consider space-saving solutions like wall-mounted sinks, floating vanities or corner storage units. These can help free up floor space and create a more open, inviting environment. Additionally, think about accessibility features to accommodate all your guests. A walk-in shower with a built-in seat is useful for people of all abilities, including elderly or mobility-impaired guests.
FIXTURES, HARDWARE AND LIGHTING – OH MY!
Simple upgrades that pack a punch include replacing outdated faucets,
Rylee Henderer | DESIGNER
showerheads and cabinet handles with modern, stylish options. Good lighting is essential in a bathroom, especially during the darker winter months. Add layers of lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Combine ambient lighting with task lighting around the mirror for grooming and makeup application. Consider installing dimmer switches to adjust the brightness according to the time of day.
GET FESTIVE
Adding seasonal decor to your bathroom is a wonderful way to infuse holiday cheer and make your guests feel welcome. Swap out your regular towels for ones in holiday colors or patterns. Add holiday-themed accessories like soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, and shower curtains. These small, festive changes are easy to switch out after the holidays.
Rylee Henderer grew up around construction job sites, sweeping up endless sawdust in the shop. She formally joined her family’s business in 2017 and learned everything from demolition and framing, to tile and cabinetry installation. From there, Rylee grew into client management, and along the way found a love for design. She is now a full-time designer, creating beautiful, innovative spaces for Henderer Design + Build + Remodel.
PLAN AHEAD
A bathroom remodel can be a significant project, so plan ahead to ensure it’s completed in time for the holidays. Work with a professional contractor to create a timeline and stick to it. Allow for some flexibility in case of unexpected delays but aim to finish well before your first holiday gathering.
Many contractors are booked for the holiday season thus far, but this is a good time to also notice any pieces of your existing spaces that you’d like to modify or change. Keep notes of any major hiccups you notice, and once the new year has rolled around, you’ll be ready to dive into a project!
When a pet gets cancer
When you learn your family pet has cancer, it can be shattering news. But take heart: veterinary care has come a long way in recent years, which may help your furry best friend.
Oncology treatment in dogs and cats can range from a pill a few times a week, to advanced surgical or even radiation therapy, depending on the type and stage of disease. A typical scenario is a middle-aged dog that has developed a solid cancerous tumor. If the dog is generally in good health, we can surgically remove the tumor, then prescribe a course of chemotherapy.
While it is less common, if radiation treatment is warranted, we refer patients to OSU’s Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine. While radiation treatment requires sedation, dogs and cats have fewer side effects to it than humans — and it’s quite effective in treating their cancers.
The philosophy of chemotherapy in veterinary medicine is fundamentally different than with human care, based on maintaining a good quality of life regardless of which surgical or chemical intervention is the central guiding principle. We aim to guide you in making the right choices for your pet and your family.
Brought to you by:
Josiah Moses, DVM | Ark Animal Hospital
In partnership with Willamette Veterinary Hospital & Ark Animal Hospital
Family Fun Night
First Fridays starting in October
Free Event | Corvallis Community Center
Teen Scene Presents: Dead Serious October 5&6
Majestic Theatre Youth Production | Majestic Lab
Corvallis Comedy Night: Maddie Wiener
October 12
The Majestic Theatre
Over the Garden Wall (with shadow cast) October 19&20
The Majestic Theatre
Marvelous Monster Mash October 25
Corvallis Community Center
Caturday November 9
Free Event | Corvallis Community Center
Skye Consort & Emma Björling
November 15
The Majestic Theatre
text or visit our showroom to schedule a FREE in-home consultation
Dr. Austin Brunson has joined the practice of Dr. Jeffrey Carl. Dr. Brunson was born and raised in Albany and is deeply rooted in our local communities. He graduated from West Albany High School and then from Oregon State University. During school Dr. Brunson worked locally at O’Brien Dental Lab before attending dental school at the Roseman University of Health Sciences. He has a kind heart, a warm smile and is committed to providing excellent patient care as well as outstanding dentistry.
New patients are always welcome. Schedule today by calling 541-926-6089.
Austin Brunson
Balancing act: gymnastics builds skills for life
Balance is a crucial life skill, whether it’s managing your time or mastering your body’s movements. For kids, gymnastics offers a fun and effective way to develop this balance while enhancing their coordination.
Through activities like somersaults and cartwheels, children not only learn to steady their bodies but also become more aware of how they move through space. This spatial awareness is key as they develop both fine and gross motor skills — skills that will support them in everyday life as they grow.
As kids improve their balance in gymnastics, they also build confidence in their abilities. Each new skill they master, from basic moves to more advanced techniques, fosters a sense of determination and work ethic.
The practice and persistence required to progress in gymnastics teach valuable lessons that extend far beyond the gym. Gymnastics is more than just a sport — it’s a foundation for life skills like balance, determination and self-confidence, all of which help children thrive as they grow.
Liz Baer CPM, LDM
Julia Bailey CPM, LDM, IBCLC
Karen Swanger Director of OSU KidSpirit
Brought to you by: OSU KidSpirit, Extension and Engagement kidspirit.oregonstate.edu
partners
Build a routine to set the day
As educators we see the children scramble through our doors who have gotten up late, had a temper tantrum over shoes or a favorite shirt that was dirty, didn’t eat any breakfast and so on. When routines are rocky or unclear, we become stressed both physically and mentally. This increases cortisol in our body which shuts down oxygen to the brain and reduces our ability to reason clearly. Many kids are already worn out before they leave the house.
As adults we have the power to look at the environment and change a variable that may be causing our household batteries to be drained in the morning. Start by asking yourself:
• How long does it take to complete necessary tasks and have we allotted enough time?
• What systems do we have in place for breakfast, packing lunches, or prepping dinners?
• What systems are in place for basic morning hygiene, getting dressed, etc.?
• Where do children find backpacks, homework, sports gear, instruments, etc.?
Start by making a plan the night before: lay out clothes, pre-bag items for lunch, place
Pure Beauty Aesthetics is located in Beautiful Historic Downtown Albany for all your Skin Health needs!
We Specialize in HydraFacial, Laser Treatments, Chemical Peels, Microneedling, Advanced Skincare, Teeth Whitening & much more!
Supporting a mom friend through cancer
WHEN
A
MOM
WITH DEPENDENT CHILDREN IS GOING THROUGH CANCER TREATMENT, SHE MUST SOMEHOW MANAGE TO CARE FOR HER OWN SERIOUS HEALTH NEEDS AND HER CHILDREN. HERE’S HOW TO HELP.
WHAT TO SAY
SAY: I’m here for you.
DON’T SAY: My cousin/aunt/mother died from that, but I’m sure you’ll be fine. This kind of comment is not encouraging to hear.
SAY: I’m bringing you food/cleaning your house/taking your kids for the day.
DON’T SAY: Let me know how I can help. This puts the coordination of efforts on the sick person. Be specific about what and when, so she doesn’t have to expend energy thinking about the logistics.
SAY: I’m sorry you’re going through this.
DON’T SAY: It must be your underwire bras/the diet pop you drink/ your cell phone…keep the wacky (and unfounded) theories to yourself.
WHAT TO DO
Make meals that can be frozen: kid-friendly dinners are especially appreciated.
Take her kids for an afternoon, including pickup and drop off. Feed them, and bring leftovers back with you.
Clean out, wash and vacuum her car. Pick a chore, any chore and just do it: clean some windows, sweep the porch, weed the garden — it all helps!
WHAT NOT TO FORGET
Many cancer survivors say that after they reach remission, another level of emotional processing begins. Be supportive when they have scanxiety (anxiety before follow-up scans). Mark your friend’s cancer-versary on your calendar and reach out to them near the date, to let them know you’re thinking of them.
WHAT TO GIFT
• Gift cards for local restaurants
• Ginger candies, lollipops for nausea
• Protein shakes and bars
• Heating pad, lap blanket, shawl, warm socks
• Good quality, unscented skin and lip moisturizers (scented products can be irritating)
• Soft toothbrush, numbing mouthwash
• Shower covers for PICC lines: try Mighty-Well.com
• Box of disposable face masks
• Handwritten card or letter expressing how much she means to you
• Hoodies, shirts made for postsurgery, ease of access to ports: try InspiredComforts.com
Celebrating 40 Years of Supporting Our Students
The Albany Public Schools Foundation is funded by the generous support of community members and businesses to enrich and enhance the quality of educational opportunities in the Albany Public School District
Scholarships
School supplies
Art and music enrichment
Science and technology activities
Mental health support and suicide prevention
Student assistance for post-secondary education
@albanypsf
@albanypublicschoolsfoundation
STEAM Hour at Meadow Ridge Elementary
We are now an ERDC Subsidy Provider
Jessica Bell
FROM SURGICAL MISSION TRIPS TO FINDING BINKIES IN HER BRA, LIFE IS A WHIRLWIND OF ACTIVITY FOR THIS MOM OF THREE.
Family comes first.
All families are unique. Tell us about yours. Justyn and I have been together since I was 15. We were married on my birthday 07/07/07 and have been married for 17 years. I feel grateful to say I love him more today than I did yesterday.
We have three boys. Ethan is 15 years old and was born with Down syndrome. We had a birth diagnosis and a life flight with a NICU stay at Seattle Children’s Hospital. The small hole in his heart closed on its own, and he is a healthy and very happy young man. He loves to introduce himself with a fist bump, and most kids at Linus Pauling know Ethan. He sees the good in people and is quite the animal whisperer. Having a kiddo with Down syndrome gets you a membership into an unspoken club of special needs parents, and the friendships and connections are truly special.
Nolan is 12 years old and really into theater these days. He has been in multiple Majestic Theater plays and is always looking for the next audition. He also loves basketball and runs cross country. And he loves screens… the battle for what is a reasonable amount of screentime seems never-ending. Most recently skateboarding has sparked his interest. Jett is 7 years old, and he is fierce. We didn’t give him a middle name when he was born and a few years ago he insisted on having one, so we let him pick it. After much consideration he came up with “Voltage” so it’s Jett Voltage Bell. His name sums up his personality. He’s a confident leader but also sugary sweet and a little love bug. He loves to skateboard, and his love and insistence
on it has resulted in almost nightly whole family visits to the skatepark.
I work in a clinic and the operating room as a first assistant for urological-gynecological surgeries. In the clinic, my specialities are menopause, sexual health concerns, tissue issues and complex pelvic pain. I also have a large referral practice with the cancer center to address patients’ concerns with sexual health and their cancer diagnoses. I’m also the medical director for Sarah’s Place which provides compassionate medical services for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and non-fatal strangulation. It is located next to the Albany Emergency Department and open 24/7.
I’ve taken my surgical skills to Guatemala three times now and it has been such a rewarding experience. A colleague and I founded a surgical nonprofit to help raise money for our surgical missions, called Scenic Northwest Surgical Outreach. Profits from our fundraisers support people who want to volunteer their time but are limited by funds.
I also have a few passion projects in the community. The Novo Collective is a group of multidisciplinary healthcare providers that equips and empowers women through education and guidance to navigate the menopausal phase of life. We host meetups and educational retreats in the community. What is the most surprising thing you have found wedged between the sofa cushions or behind a car seat? How about wedged between my sports bra strap and body? I was drawing blood as a phlebotomist one time, and I looked down and saw a binky that I had forgotten. I used to always put them in my bra so I always had one handy in case.
&
PROFESSION: Physician Assistant
COMMUNITY: Corvallis
PARTNER: Justyn Bell, stay-at-home dad & yoga instructor
CHILDREN: Ethan, 15; Nolan, 12; and Jett, 7
PHOTOS BY: MARILLA KAY PHOTOGRAPHY
MOM’s Favorite...
Tell us about your favorite…
…place to find some peace & quiet: My hot tub or the gym at 5 a.m.
…binge-worthy TV or podcast: Sex Education
…way to get out of making dinner: American Dream Pizza
…time-saving app or digital tool: Looking for recommendations, lol
What is something you swore you would never do before kids that you now do? Have a minivan. Not sure if I actually said that, but it’s a common thing and I love my minivan.
No one works harder than mom.
Tell us about your work or volunteerism outside of the home. I started volunteering at a food bank and thrift store with my grandma when I was a little girl, and volunteering has always been a part of my life. Most recently I have been traveling to Guatemala to volunteer in surgical missions. Last year we brought a team of urogynecologist, gynecologists, general surgeons and a dentist who did procedures under anesthesia for children with special needs. I have been three times and look forward to visiting annually. Our group completed 150 surgeries in four days. People travel hours to have their surgeries done by volunteers from out of the country. Do you have a goal you’d like to accomplish within the next five years? I would like to take my family to Guatemala on a surgical mission and mission to the orphanage. I really want to share that experience with them and I want to introduce the sisters/nuns to my kiddos. Ethan particularly. It seems about a quarter of the kids at the orphanage have Down syndrome and many others have a disability. The sisters have seen pictures of Ethan and he made bracelets for the kids this year. I want to bring him to personally
deliver them sometime and introduce him to the sisters. I also know the experience will be powerful for Nolan and Jett too.
If mom’s not happy, nobody’s happy.
Tell us about your upbringing. How did it shape the mother you are today? My upbringing was teamwork between my grandparents, particularly my grandma and my parents. My mom and dad worked out of the home. My mom is retired now, but she is still and has always been a fierce professional career woman. This limited her time with me but she made it to every dance performance, football game and basketball game I cheered at, and was definitely an amazing do-it-all kind of a lady. My dad worked out of the home too, and his time with us was very limited. We lived just a few houses away from my grandma and spent a lot of time with her in the garden and kitchen. I grew up in Chinook, Washington, and my grandma’s house was waterfront so I had sand between my toes most of the time.
When was the last time you did something for the first time? This past year I have hosted multiple menopause retreats and I hosted my first weekend long retreat. I definitely found that I love hosting retreats and have many more planned. I was also on a Podcast for the first time. It was so fun but scary at the same time.
What is one thing you never had that you want for your kids? My dad was allergic to cats so we could never have a cat. We have a cat named “Kitty Kitty Meow Meow,” and we just found a little kitten at the skatepark recently. So we have added a little gray kitten Ollie to our family, named after the skateboard trick.
I also want to teach my kids physical activity as a health care practice. Working in medicine I see the need for education at home regarding nutrition, physical activity and sex education. I want to teach my kids how to fuel their body and minds for life.
What keeps you up at night (apart from kids, of course)? Reproductive rights.
They say that everyone has a book in them. What’s the title of your book? Momopause: Momming as a Menopause Specialist. Some of us start going through hormonal changes at the same time our children are going through hormonal changes.
Listen to mom.
Is motherhood what you expected? What surprised you the most? Motherhood is an interesting thing. I think I knew to expect the unexpected and when Ethan was born with Down syndrome at birth that was more true than ever. He was my firstborn, so not only did I not know how to be a mom yet, I
didn’t know what it meant to be a mom to Ethan. There is a poem called “Welcome to Holland” and it applies to many situations but it was written by a mom with a child who has Down syndrome. It describes planning for a trip to Italy, learning the language, packing appropriately and researching all the right places to eat and visit when your plane drops you off in Holland. It is different, not what you expected, not what you planned for, and it is definitely surprising but it is so beautiful. The tulips are bright and abundant and the windmills are magnificent. Motherhood can be like this. No matter the kid, they will surprise you and if you have more than one you will wonder how they can all be so different.
Who and what has influenced the mother you are today? My grandma and my mom. The dichotomy between the two of them as mothers has definitely influenced me. I find myself to be a bit like both of them. Ethan has also influenced the mother I am today. I often call him my teacher. He has taught me patience and how to celebrate all of the mini milestones in life. He has taught me how to experience joy in what some might feel mundane or uninteresting. He has taught me the importance of community in motherhood.
MOMs Love Local
We love locally owned businesses, restaurants, places and organizations. Share your favorite…
…shop to pick up a gift: Golden Crane, Seoul Sisters
…coffee spot: Tried & True
…spot to get a good workout: Willamette Valley Power Yoga, Orange Theory, SamFit
…places to treat yourself: Star Nails, Epic Day Spa, Corvallis Acupuncture & Wellness Center
…restaurants: Squirrel’s, Del Alma, Brass Monkey, Sugoi Sushi
…place where the kids can let off steam: Skate park
…community events: Sage Concerts, Movie in the Park, Flynn Creek Circus, Majestic Theater
…any other local places you love: Farmers Market, Waterfront spiderweb and fountain, Central Park play structures, Avery Park and Starker Park
Flying out of Eugene is easy-breezy
Compared to PDX, locals know how easy it is to get from car to concourse at the Eugene Airport — the convenient parking lot is only steps away from the entrance. When traveling with kids, the ease of a shorter drive to Eugene means less time in car seats, shuttle buses and strollers. Plus, it has all the amenities you want and need in an airport. Start planning your family fun!
ALASKA AIRLINES | Alaska Airlines offers non-stop flights to Los Angeles, San Diego and Seattle with connections to destinations across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Costa Rica. Alaska Airlines offers the most flights from Eugene Airport. Alaskaair.com
ALLEGIANT | Allegiant began in 1997 and offers low fares on non-stop, all-jet service. From Eugene you can fly non-stop to Las Vegas, Orange County and Mesa (near Phoenix). Allegiantair.com *
AMERICAN AIRLINES | American Airlines flies daily non-stop flights from Eugene to Dallas/ Fort Worth and Phoenix. From those cities you can catch connecting flights to 350 cities around the world. AA.com
AVELO | Avelo Airlines began in 2021. They fly four days per week non-stop to the Hollywood Burbank airport using Boeing 737
aircraft with 189 seats. This flight offers low fares and easy access to the attractions of Southern California. Aveloair.com *
DELTA | Delta can fly you to almost 300 destinations in 50 countries, starting from Eugene. They offer daily non-stop flights to Salt Lake City and Seattle, where you can connect to flights anywhere you want to go. Delta.com
SOUTHWEST | Southwest started its service to Eugene Airport in 2021. The low-cost airline offers daily non-stop flights to Burbank, Denver, Las Vegas, Oakland, San Jose and seasonal flights to San Diego and Sacramento. Southwest.com *
UNITED | United Airlines was the first airline to serve Eugene Airport in 1944. Today they operate daily non-stop flights to Denver and San Francisco. From Eugene you can connect to 210 destinations in the United States and 140 international airports. United.com
* Note that you can only find pricing for Allegiant, Avelo and Southwest Airlines flights on their own official websites.
MEET VACATION MOM TM
Vacation MOM is brought to you in partnership with Eugene Airport
Donnita Bassinger has been a travel agent for over three decades and is the owner of VIP Vacations. She enjoys sending families on vacations around the world. She is a mom to three and lives in Eugene, and she looks forward to making your travel dreams become a reality.
Contact Donnita at 541-913-5272 @VacationMOMpage
There’s no age limit on braces
If you missed out on braces as a child, or your teeth have shifted over time, it’s not too late to get a beautiful, healthy smile.
Adults can greatly benefit from orthodontic treatment to improve their overall dental health and appearance. Teeth that are out of position endure more wear and tear over time, so it is a worthwhile investment. There are plenty of options nowadays, with many adults preferring clear aligners. These removable and invisible aligners are effective on mild to moderate alignment cases. Other options include traditional braces or LightForce braces, which feature custom 3D printed brackets.
If you find yourself needing dental crowns, implants, veneers and other restorative dental work, know that addressing any bite issues through orthodontia is key to making them last longer. Experienced orthodontists are familiar with working very closely with dentists to coordinate your prosthetic treatment plan to ensure a quality result. Is this the year to do something for you? Scheduling a free consultation with us is a great starting point to learn about financing options, timing and more.
This smile is brought to you by: WADE L. HASLAM, DMD, PC
Potato/ Potahto…
HOWEVER YOU SAY IT, THIS VERSATILE STARCH CALLS TO US WHEN THE TEMPERATURE DROPS AND THE NIGHTS GROW LONG.
Classic Shepherd’s Pie
2 tablespoons oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 lb ground beef, turkey or lamb
½ teaspoon rosemary
½ teaspoon parsley
½ teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons flour
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
1/2 cup frozen corn
1 1/2 – 2 pounds of potatoes, peeled and boiled
8 tablespoons butter
1/3 cup half-and-half
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup grated parmesan
Add oil and chopped onion to a heated pan and cook until onion is tender. Add the ground meat and season with parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper.
Add Worcestershire sauce and minced garlic. Once cooked, add in the tomato paste and flour a little at a time to thicken the mixture.
Next, add the beef broth and frozen peas, carrots and corn. Cook until vegetables are soft then remove from heat and set aside.
In a large bowl, mash potatoes with butter and half-and-half. Add parmesan and garlic powder, and more salt and pepper to taste.
In a casserole dish, cover the bottom with meat and vegetable mixture. Then layer the potatoes over top, making sure to meet the edges of the dish.
Bake uncovered at 400 degrees for 25 – 30 minutes.
A Midwest family favorite
3 Tbsp. butter
2 Tbsp. our
3 cups milk
1 tsp. salt
¼ tsp. pepper
6 medium potatoes, pared & thinly sliced 2 Tbsp. chopped onion
Melt butter over low heat; add our, salt & pepper and stir. Add milk, whisking constantly until sauce combines and thickens. Place half the potatoes in a greased 2-quart casserole; cover with half the onion and half the sauce. Repeat layers. Cover and bake at 350°F about 1 hour. Uncover and continue baking until top is browned.
cream or other dips.
Open Daily –Two Locations 2855 NW Grant Ave 1007 SE Third St
WHAT YOU R CHILD’S school bus driver
Wants you to know
By this point in the school year, you and your kids have probably gotten into a routine when it comes to riding the bus. As moms, we’re mostly focused on our own children, but don’t forget that adult in the school bus driver’s seat — they’re looking out for your kids, too.
SAFETY FIRST, ALWAYS
It makes sense to wait with your child for the school bus, because… shenanigans. For kindergarten students, a parent or guardian is required to be present in most districts, for both pick-up and drop-off. For older students, things get a bit murkier and are up to parents.
LeeAnne Poris, operations supervisor for Greater Albany Public School District’s transportation department, said that while it is up to the parent/guardian, adult supervision is always a good idea. “It’s helpful to have a responsible adult at the bus stop to help ensure that the children are being respectful of the property they are waiting on and also help maintain good behavior.”
As kids get into upper elementary grades, they may not want mom hanging around. “Maturity of the student and distance to the bus stop would be variables parents should consider,” said Angela Taylor, operations manager for Student Transportation of America, which is used by the Corvallis School District.
Taylor recommends that any student who walks alone to or from the bus should know their home address and parent phone number. Nathan Misner, transportation manager for the Eugene School District agrees and adds, “Parents should learn the transportation department’s phone number if they need to know route status or details about their child.”
A safety consideration you might not have on your radar: eating. Taylor noted, “Eating on the bus is a huge safety concern given the risk of choking. Parents can set their kiddos up for success by not sending them to the bus stop while eating.”
Like Eugene, the Corvallis district has also begun using My Ride. Taylor said, “Dispatchers can send targeted messages via app notifications or email, cutting out the middle-man making communications more timely. Through the My Ride K-12 app parents are also able to view a map showing where their student’s bus is so students aren’t waiting out in the rain.”
In Albany, notifications are sent through an app called ParentSquare. Poris said, “If we have to cancel a bus route we send out a ParentSquare notification to the families of the schools involved as early as possible. We will also send a Parent-Square notification if a bus is running more than 10 minutes late.”
MAKING IT BETTER
A nationwide shortage of school bus drivers has meant a squeeze on timing and routing that many parents have felt. Poris notes they, like many other districts, are actively hiring bus drivers: “Having more drivers will help make sure we don’t have to cancel any routes, which we know is a headache for our families.”
The Eugene Airport is a proud part of what makes Western Oregon such a unique place to live and visit, with direct routes connecting to hundreds of destinations.
Scooters and skateboards are another concern. Parents and children alike need to abide by their school district’s transportation policy. For instance, in the Corvallis School District skateboards must be secured in a backpack that can be stowed under their seat without rolling. “Unfortunately there have been times when drivers have arrived to a stop where a student has a skateboard that isn’t secured. In this situation the driver must refuse transportation. Scooters are not allowed on buses,” said Taylor.
STAY IN THE KNOW
“Our district communicates through an auto dialer system to phones, website notifications, and now through a bus-specific parent portal/routing program called My Ride. It gives parents access to push notifications about the route,” said Misner.
It’s also heartening to know that, “Unlike other states, Oregon Department of Education has additional training requirements including continuing education designed to prepare drivers to not only provide safe transportation, but also student management skills and how to deal with challenges on the bus,” said Taylor. For parents and kids relying on safe transportation, that goes a
When it comes to late or rerouted buses, you want to be informed as quickly as possible. Each school district has its own preferred channels. If your child is walking to or from the bus by themselves and you are leaving for work yourself, this is essential for when a bus is late, canceled or rerouted.
FUN SCHOOL BUS FACTS
• School buses began in the U.S. soon after primary education became compulsory, first as wagons with bench seating and loading doors positioned to not scare the horses.
• We’re kinda cute: From outside of North America, many people view school buses adorably quaint, and wonder, “Do you pay a fare? Are there tickets? I thought it was only in movies!”
• The iconic yellow color was invented for visibility in semidarkness. It’s known officially as National School Bus Glossy Yellow.
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We’re looking out for you
When you and your children have annual eye exams, we’re looking at more than your ability to see faraway or up close. There are numerous eye health factors we assess, including depth perception, color vision, peripheral vision and cornea shape.
During your exam, we also test your eye muscle strength, and we watch how your eyes work together. The health of your pupils, corneas, irides, lenses and retinas as well as eyelids, lashes and surrounding tissues are all part of a comprehensive eye exam.
At pediatric eye exams, we additionally look for conditions that are more common in children, such as amblyopia (lazy eye) and strabismus (misaligned eyes). The free vision screenings at school are fine for catching obvious vision issues, but are no substitute for a comprehensive exam by a board-certified doctor of optometry. And mom, don’t put yourself last: sometimes “silent” diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure can reveal themselves in eye exams.
We’re also watching for changes in your family’s vision and/or eye health year-over-year. That’s why it’s important to stay up-to-date on preventive eye care, and why it helps to establish yourselves as regular patients of a comprehensive eye care center.
Carli Lancaster, OD eyecareassociates.net
Albany Willetta St SW (541) 926-5848
Albany Custom Eyes (541) 928-2020
Downtown Corvallis (541) 757-1120
NW Corvallis (541) 752-4622
Lebanon (541) 451-5808
Lincoln City (541) 614-0946
Salem (971) 377-2703
a beautiful baby! Congratulations to the KRKT Beautiful Baby contest winner: Navy Tibbs of Millersburg.
Photo credit: Samantha Tibbs
It starts early: oral care for baby
Tooth decay can occur as early as age 1, which is why we advise parents to start early with taking care of their baby’s oral health. Some advice for your baby’s first year:
• Even before your baby’s first tooth erupts, wipe their gums, mouth and tongue with a soft cloth or oral wipe, especially after nursing or feeding. This helps them get used to future teeth cleanings.
• If you give your baby a bottle before going to sleep, use only water. Bottles containing sugary drinks, milk or formula put teeth at risk of a bacterial acid attack all night long.
• Never dip a child’s pacifier in anything. Give your baby a firm rubber teething ring to help with teething discomfort.
• Talk to your pediatrician or pediatric dentist about fluoride use and when to transition your baby to fluoride toothpaste.
• Establish a dental home for your baby by their first birthday. Your dentist can provide useful information and guidance towards helping keep your child’s mouth healthy and cavity-free.
Starting early with good dental care helps your child avoid future tooth pain, infections, speech problems and other oral health issues. And that keeps babies smiling into adulthood.
Source: American Pediatric Dentists
