Emerald Everyday Hero

PRESENTED BY

Emerald

HERO

Thanking all Healthcare and Essential Workers

SPONSORED BY

Editor’s Note:

In a time of uncertainty, those of us at the Daily Emerald wanted to find a way to shine a spotlight on the people who are going above and beyond to support others, even if it means putting their own self at risk. We asked the community to nominate their friends, family, coworkers, anyone who made an impact on them or others through selfless service and acts of kindness, and you answered the call: we sorted through heartwarming stories of people helping people, an outpouring of love and more that brought a sense of hope and resiliency. It was incredibly difficult for our committee to select a single Emerald Everyday Hero to honor given the outstanding selection of heroes present in our community, and especially because everyone who was nominated is an Everyday Hero.

Now, we’re here to say THANK YOU and turn the spotlight on some of the true Emerald Everyday Heroes that were submitted. We want to give a resounding congratulations to the selected Emerald Everyday Hero, Holly Kriz-Anderson, and her Youth Development team who worked to provide safe (and fun) childcare for first responders, medical professionals and essential workers. This issue will highlight individual heroes and the hard work they have been doing to keep our world turning safely; from mask-maker extraordinaires to the invention of pool noodle tag, their service reminds us to be our best selves. Health and safety is the top priority, so on top of spotlighting local heroes, check out this issue for wellness articles on staying healthy mentally and physically so you can take care of yourself, too.

This issue was an absolute pleasure to create, and it was rejuvenating to read all of the submissions as they came in. Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination, and of course, thank you to the essential workers who are putting so much on the line to provide crucial necessities for the rest of the world. Stay safe, be well, and enjoy.

Skyla Patton

WE LOVE YOU, HOLLY Thank you for taking remarkable care of our community’s kids!

Holly Kriz-Anderson Youth Development Director

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Written by Janie Velarde

Know Your Strain It’s important to know the symptoms of COVID-19 and take every precaution to maintain a healthy environment for our ourselves and those around us.

The most effective way to prevent any serious illness is to understand what you have and how to treat it.

What’s the Difference?

As the names indicate, bacterial infections are caused by bacteria and viral infections are caused by viruses. The main difference between these two types of infections is that they’re treated differently.

According to the Mayo Clinic, “antibiotic drugs usually kill bacteria, but they aren't effective against viruses.” Viral and bacterial infections are also different in their cellular makeup and methods of survival. Bacteria are single-celled organisms that can survive and thrive in extreme environments such as the ocean, soil, snow, rocks, plants, animals and the human body. Viruses are microscopic parasites that require a living host in order to survive. Without a host body, viruses are unable to reproduce.

Most common illnesses For the most part, average college-aged students are susceptible to common and treatable illnesses such as a common cold or flu, STDs, mononucleosis, strep infections and more recently, COVID-19. It’s important to note that if you aren’t feeling well, the best thing to do is always consult a medical professional first.

COVID-19: Otherwise known as the CoronaVirus, this is a viral respiratory disease that we are still trying to understand globally. So far, we know that the virus is highly contagious and can be passed from person to person via the droplets generated by sneezing, coughing and speaking. Symptoms of COVID-19 include shortness of breath, fatigue, fever, cough and head pain.

Common cold or flu: The common cold or flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. This virus is normally spread when an infected person sneezes, coughs or talks to or near a healthy person. Less commonly, the virus can be contracted by touching a surface that carries the infection.

STD: Depending on the type of sexually transmitted disease (STD) whether it’s a virus or bacterial infection may vary. Symptoms will vary from one disease to another but some common symptoms include itchy genitals, unusual discharge, pain during urination or intercourse, a sore throat after oral sex and pain in or around the anus.

Strep Infection: Strep throat is a highly contagious bacterial infection that causes inflammation and/or pain in the throat. It’s passed from one person to another via airborne droplets that are sprayed when someone with the infection coughs or sneezes.

A healthy person can also contract the illness by sharing food or drinks with someone who carries the infection. The bacteria can also be contracted from touching an infected surface and then touching your face.

Prevention and treatment COVID-19: There is no singular treatment for COVID-19. While medical professionals work toward a solution in that regard, there are still steps the public can take to prevent the sickness from spreading. Right now, the best way to protect yourself is to avoid exposure by adhering to quarantine rules. It’s also important to wash your hands thoroughly and often, disinfect commonly touched surfaces within your home, wear a facemask if you’re infected, avoid touching your face and staying away from people who are infected.

Common cold or flu: With modern medicine, the common cold or flu is easily preventable. It’s been proven that the best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention website states that “vaccination has been shown to have many benefits including reducing the risk of flu illnesses, hospitalizations and even the risk of flu-related death in children.”

Treating the flu is typically the same as meningitis.

In more serious cases your doctor might prescribe antiviral medication.

STD: STDs are most commonly contracted and spread when a condom, dental dam or finger cot isn’t used during intercourse. To prevent this, use protection! It’s also important to get tested for STDs regularly—especially if you’re sexually active with multiple people. Treatments vary depending on the disease, so talk to your doctor about what is best for you.

Strep Infection: Since strep is a bacterial virus, it can be treated with antibiotics prescribed to you by a doctor. Antibiotics are meant to shorten the lifespan, the severity of the infection and lessen the risk of spreading the disease further. While the antibiotic works, you can also take over-the-counter pain relievers. Ask your doctor which ones are safe to take with antibiotics.

Get educated and get well It’s important to remember that infections are either treatable or preventable as long as you know what you’re dealing with. Instead of relying on WebMD to diagnose you, visit your primary care doctor or the UO Health Center to figure out what treatment is most appropriate for your illness. Wash those hands and be safe!

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Who Takes Care of Our Kids?

Holly Kritz-Anderson and YMCA Youth Development Team Steps Up During Pandemic Nominator: Beth Casper Nominee: Holly Kriz-Anderson Occupation: Youth Development Director and VP of operations for Eugene Family YMCA Holly Kriz-Anderson and her Youth Development Team at the YMCA in Eugene, Ore., have been putting in major hours for the children since the start of COVID-19. Since March, Anderson and her team have organized free childcare for healthcare and emergency workers and then expanded to all essential workers in the community.

Anderson has been the Youth Development Director at the Eugene YMCA for the past 20 years and over the past year her position has been expanded to cover more responsibilities. She says that deciding to run a free childcare program was a natural fit for them, but figuring out how to run a childcare program during a pandemic was a bigger challenge.

“It was really taking what we already do and we had to expand and almost recreate what it looks like to run a childcare program,” Kriz-Anderson said.

They redesigned classic childhood games like tag to be contactless by having kids tag each other with pool noodles.

They added painter’s tape to section off play areas. They gave each child their own set of craft supplies. They did kid yoga. They sanitized religiously.

Holly Kriz-Anderson has been selected as the Emerald Everyday Hero.

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“We try to stop using the term ‘social distancing’ and we use the term ‘physical distancing’,” Kriz-Anderson says. “We want to continue being social with people and you can be social with someone even if you’re not standing right by them.”

“If you look at the YMCA’s history across the world, Y’s step up when the community needs them,” Anderson says.

“Just being a part of this huge movement, it’s more than just us, and that’s very rewarding.”

Currently, there are 120 kids involved in the program, attending on Monday/Wednesday/Friday or Tuesday/ Thursday. When families come to drop off their kids, they’re asked if anyone has a cough or a fever and the kids get their temperatures checked at the door.

“We have a sign-in person who is the same person in the morning and afternoon and they’re the ones that sign the youth in. The staff that are with those kids never meet the family at all,” said Kriz-Anderson. “Removing that piece was really, really hard. That’s part of what we pride ourselves on, creating these great relationships with families.”

take virtual museum tours, or virtual tours of the zoo. Most importantly, though, the kids are getting to know the people who are helping them with their homework.

“I think when kids know who their staff are then they do get a little bit of normalcy. You can still sing some cheesy pop song when you’re getting ready to wash your hands to go eat your lunch,” Kriz-Anderson says. “You do have to be a little goofy, bringing that humor to the program in addition to still being safe.”

Kriz-Anderson thanks her Youth Development Team for the success of the program, and the reach it has had across the community. “My staff are the ones who are elbows deep in sanitizer everyday. They’re the ones who I wish I could give more to,” she says.

For the summer, Anderson is looking to tweak the program and continue to improve their operations. The YMCA will continue to run free childcare for essential workers through the pandemic.

“If you look at the YMCA’s history across the world, Y’s step up when the community needs them,” Anderson says. “Just being a part of this huge movement, it’s more than just us, and that’s very rewarding.”

While incorporating technology is something that Anderson tries to avoid typically when planning programs for the kids, it’s less typical during pandemic days. Now the kids

“We try to stop using the term ‘social distancing’ and we use the term ‘physical distancing’,” Kriz-Anderson says. “We want to continue being social with people and you can be social with someone even if you’re not standing right by them.”

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Tom from Safeway Nominee: Tom Occupation: Cashier at Safeway

Going to the grocery store may be just a box to check on your to-do list, but for Safeway employee Tom, it’s an opportunity to make everyone’s day just a little bit better. Tom is everyone’s go-to cashier for his great attitude and kindness inspiring people on a daily basis. Simply seeing him when you walk in the door and knowing there’s a great smile, a “hello!” and a quick check-in waiting can brighten your day.

Why are you nominating this person?

Tom always remembers people when they come in, he has a wonderful attitude and smile and will always be happy to talk to you. Even through the pandemic, he’s still kept up a great attitude that makes him a pleasure to see when you go to Safeway. I think he deserves recognition.

Is there a lesson we can learn from them?

Be kind to others and uplift them. Connecting with others you don’t know well, even in the smallest of ways, with a smile and a glance of recognition, is the greatest expression of human kindness in a time where connection is limited.

Chris at the Register Guard Nominee: Chris Pietsch Occupation: Photojournalist at the Register Guard

Susan the Mediator Nominee: Susan Hamwi Occupation: Lawyer, mediator

They say that kindness is one of the secrets to success, and Susan Hamwi may just be the perfect example of unlocking that secret. A lawyer and mediator, Susan’s ability to look on the brightside and maintain a positive, happy attitude is part of what allows her to excel in her job and really help people.

Her “helping mentality” as a major factor in her interactions with clients and ability to perform in what is often a tense environment.

Is there a lesson we can learn from this individual?

Keeping a great attitude and being nice to the people you’re surrounded by will get you way farther in life than being angry all the time or upset.

Susan is inspiring because of her happiness, and she works so hard every day, even when she has to take care of so many people and their everyday issues.

It’s amazing and inspires me to always keep going.

Is there a story you’d like to tell about this person?

She was helping multiple people with their issues and at one point it was taking a personal toll on her. She was becoming stressed and you could tell she was taking on some of the hardship of the people’s experiences she was working for. But she was able to get everyone back on the right track and push through despite the hardship because she is such a strong woman, and I think we can all learn something from that.

Where most take shelter in their homes and watch the world turn outside, it is often the journalists who are walking straight into the storm to try and get a better picture, and Chris Pietsch is no exception. Longtime photojournalist at the Register-Guard, Chris is well-known for his powerful images and unfailing commitment to the community. Friend and former colleague Alisha Dodds gladly highlighted the neverending work Chris does to serve the area and produce superb photos that capture the spirit of any situation. Alisha says if there’s anything to take away from Chris, it’s this key: Find a job (and a community) that you love, and you won’t be able to help yourself from giving back, helping others, and being a part of history.

Why are you nominating this person?

He’s an incredible human in a number of ways, and that was prior to a worldwide pandemic. Chris Pietsch is a photojournalist to his core—but he’s much more than that. He’s not only committed to his job (more so than any other journalist I’ve known) but he cares deeply for his community and is constantly going the extra mile to show the people of Lane County what’s going on in the area. During this pandemic, he’s been working his tail off to capture every image imaginable. From socially distant weddings and birthday parties to a series of portraits of locals wearing masks to school lunches being served and technology being distributed to students. He’s documenting history (like he always is) but he’s been very thoughtful about his approach—and has created some stunning images. He shows up EVERYWHERE and is single-handedly documenting this pandemic for our community. What makes him a hero, though, is that he’s risking his life doing all of this. As his friend, I’m allowed to say he’s part of the “at-risk” group because of his age - but he carries on. He’s a journalist in every sense of the word and he takes it seriously.

Is there a story that highlights this individual’s work?

As one example of his heroism and commitment to this community, and to telling a story, he was furloughed for a week, but instead of taking the week to sleep in and watch Netflix or read books—he kept telling stories.

Stories of his past, of major journalistic accomplishments, of what led him to journalism (all publicly on Facebook) in part to show the community he’s still here and he’s still documenting this wild event. I’ve never met anyone as committed to journalism and capturing history as Chris Pietsch. He’s a hero in an unconventional sense—but his work will make up our future history books and his efforts are nothing short of risking his life. If he stops documenting the happenings of Eugene-Springfield during a pandemic, who will do it? TV news doesn’t have quite the same approach to telling a story - and he has the uncanny ability to do so in one frame. The man is well-known in this area and for good reason.

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David at the EMU Nominee: David Flock Occupation: EMU Facilities

The Erb Memorial Union is a central gathering place on campus, and keeping it operating under normal circumstances is no small feat—which is exactly why David Flock is another everyday hero during this time of crisis. If you had to strip down the job of keeping the EMU running to one single person right now, it’s David.

What inspires you about this person?

David is not just hard working, he is testing the capacity by which he can complete challenges. For example, on the side he sells wood. He doesn’t just cut wood, he bucks up whole trees and splits the wood which then goes into cords that he delivers. He doesn’t just raise bees, he has numerous hives on his property and when he ran out of space he worked with friends to install hives on the land to split honey with. He is also the bee keeper for the EMU. He doesn’t just hike, he trains year round with weighted packs. This kind of dedication to take something to its pinnacle is typical of David. He isn’t just essential, he is integral.

Is there a lesson we can learn from this person?

If given time and application of effort you can excel at anything and when you reach the confines of what you can do alone, reach out and find those willing to partner to create the opportunity for you to expand and be extraordinary.

Edward from Broadway Metro Nominee: Edward Schiessl Occupation: Managing Director, Broadway Metro

Heather with White Bird Nominee: Heather Aleska Occupation: Employee at White Bird Clinic

Movie theatres may be closed right now, but that doesn’t mean classic entertainment has to leave our lives entirely, and Edward Schiessl is helping keep movie-theatre nostalgia alive. Broadway Metro has been active in the community, providing virtual showtimes and classic theatre snacks in a safe and consumer-friendly way. Edwards’ unending resourcefulness and resilience is something everyone could take as an inspiration.

Is there a lesson we can learn from this person?

There’s always something you can do to make things a little easier (or more familiar) for people.

Is there a story you’d like to tell about this person? Although their theaters are not allowed to open, they are delivering beer and fresh popcorn to customers, so they can have a little bit of the theater experience in their homes.

White Bird Clinic is infamous for its helping hands and wide reach when it comes to supporting the local community, and Heather Aleska is one of their everyday heroes who steps into a role that is ready to help. Heather teaches the lesson that everyone could use a little help, and more importantly, everyone deserves help.

What inspires you about this person?

You know how employees become the face of the company at work, but you wonder if it really goes beyond that?

Normally it doesn’t, but for Heather Aleksa it does. She has been taking so much of her personal time during COVID-19 to help others, and that’s amazing. It’s not just her willingness to help others, it’s also her enthusiasm and passion in doing it.

Is there a story you’d like to tell about this person?

Heather exemplifies her company’s values and needs beyond those doors and into her personal life as well. One recent example is that she has taken personal time to stock her company up on donated clothing items to help those who depend on Whitebird and other resources. She has gone above and beyond not thinking about her own personal time and lack of personal benefit, rather thinking of what others may need. She knows her clients very well. As she was sorting through items, she knew who would love which item and was setting certain things aside for specific individuals who wouldn’t only appreciate the items, but would truly enjoy them! Heather is a hero to those who depend on her everyday.

John and Becky with big hearts Nominee: John and Becky Hart Occupation: Radiology Administrators

On top of working in the medical field, what is now often considered the “front line,” John and Becky Hart have made an impact in their community just by showing some extra love and support. Their can-do attitude about giving back and spreading kindness is something everyone could learn from.

Why are you nominating these individuals? In their spare time they buy storage units and rehome some of the items. Normally they will sell all of the clothing items they have but during these uncharted times they wanted to do what they could to help. They had reached out to a contact at White Bird who had taken their personal time (off the clock and unpaid) to come retrieve over 25 totes of clothing items to donate to those who depend on White Bird and their services.

What inspires you about them?

They always do what they can to help others in need without considering themselves. That’s rare nowadays, as most will consider themselves as well. It’s not always about you, and they demonstrate how to be fortunate for what you have but not so fortunate that you lose sight of others in the process.

Jason with the information Nominee: Jason Davis Occupation: Public Information Officer, Lane County Public Health

In a time of overload of information and the rapid spread of misinformation, people like Jason Davis play critical roles in keeping communities like Eugene and Springfield safe and properly aware. Jason’s dedication to keeping Lane County informed and the importance of public safety during an emergency is incredible.

Why are you nominating this individual?

I’ve observed his dedication to keeping our community healthy and informed these past few months as he’s led 45+ press conferences (with many more to come) keeping the community up-to-date with Lane County’s most recent updates related to COVID-19. There’s a lot of information to be found on COVID-19, and Jason helps keep all of his regional partners and the entire community informed with the information that applies to us directly about our county. I’m grateful to Jason for his dedication to Lane County through this event!

Is there a story you’d like to tell about this individual?

Through the entire month of March and the quantity of information that Jason and Lane County Public Health provided to the community is a story in itself. Most weeks since March 2 he has only had part of a single day off because of the constant information flow around COVID-19 and the number of questions coming from the community.

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Mary with the masks Nominee: Mary Daniels Occupation: Retired

Mary may be retired, but she isn’t on vacation somewhere tropical quite yet. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, Mary is one of thousands of people across the world that took to their sewing machines and began producing a rare and essential item: masks.

What is heroic about this person?

She has been providing masks for A LOT of people! Mary started making masks as soon as it was realized that they were needed. In addition to making masks for lots of friends and family, she picked up a kit from PeaceHealth and made them for the hospital. My husband and I have been very grateful to have nice looking and effective masks thanks to Mary. It’s very generous and needed. The other thing Mary and her husband Ross have been doing to help is staying home!

What lesson can we learn?

If you have the ability, don’t hesitate to help out.

Amy the volunteer Nominee: Amy Dotson Occupation: Finance Officer for Finance of America, Eugene

Leslie at Riverbend Nominee: Leslie Clark Occupation: Nurse/Interim Nurse Manager, Riverbend Hospital Another frontline worker, Leslie brings positivity and love not only to her family and friends in her personal life but also to her profession as a nurse. Her smile is contagious as well as her problem solving and passion for her work.

Why are you nominating this person?

Leslie works hard and compassionately at the hospital, raises three daughters (5, 12 and 14) with her husband, goes to school online, has been getting groceries for her family so they can avoid crowds during the pandemic, and is always in a wonderful mood with a smile. She even spearheaded the effort to reduce patient falls at the hospital to create a safer environment for everyone.

What is inspiring about them?

Her tireless efforts at home and work, while making everyone feel special and loved (and cared about in the professional sphere). She looks at every issue from the other person’s perspective and that makes such a difference in her ability to help and support them.

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One person can often be the crucial difference in making an impact on many, and Amy Dotson is a great example of how that ripple effect of kindness can work. Amy is often the person who goes above and beyond and cares where others may not, which is a sentiment we can all learn from.

Why are you nominating this individual?

Amy has provided tireless volunteerism for Junction City High School.

Heading up many fundraisers, sponsoring fundraisers, spending time and money rebuilding the high school batting cages, paid for banners to honor seniors for 2020, in charge of concessions for games, heads up bottle drives and more. She works tirelessly to make high school kids enjoy their experience.

Is there a lesson we can learn from them?

When you see a need, try to make time to help. One person can make all of the difference.

Wendy at Peace Health Nominee: Wendy Olson Occupation: Nurse Manager, Peace Health Campus Hospital

On the frontlines of the pandemic as a healthcare worker, Wendy Olson is responsible not only for the safety and well-being of the patients who come in and out of hospital doors, but also for a squadron of other hard-working essential nurses. Wendy is the person who is always there with a kind smile to lend a helping hand when they are in need.

Why are you nominating this individual?

Wendy goes above and beyond to make sure the nurses on her unit know they are appreciated. She works long hours alongside them showing them they are not alone. She is always there to listen to them and bring positivity, sometimes she brings in treats just for fun.

She really cares for her nurses.

Is there a story you’d like to tell?

There are a lot of things I could tell you about what makes her so special but I guess one moment that is great is when someone has their mom or dad in the hospital and they say Wendy took special time to come see them and make sure everything was good. That sums it up in a nutshell. She’s just that kind of person.

Podcasts for

Maximizing

Productivity written by Siena Dorman Knowledge is power, right? What better way to help yourself get things done than to cut out some alone time to be present and educated.

Podcasts are among the most efficient ways to maximize productivity while doing some spring cleaning, taking a walk or working around the house.

Plenty of podcasts had cult-like followings years before most of anyone knew about them. Today, many shows like The Daily, Freakonomics and Radiolab are household names. So much so that I’m quite likely to receive an excited phone call from a friend within the week beginning with, “So, I was listening to this podcast…”

For those who are not well seasoned on this medium, understand that podcasts cover vast categories. Apple users have the podcast app integrated into their iPhones and streaming apps like Spotify provide a very cohesive platform to get into a new show. Podcasts have been adopted by mainstream media as the newest way to connect with audiences.

Navigating through the extensive genres of podcasts you’ll quickly find shows on murder mysteries, forgotten history, celebrities interviewing celebrities, artificial intelligence and many others. Whether you’re looking for a conversational vibe, education or serious storytelling to take your mind off things, there’s a podcast out there for you.

99% Invisible What’s better than something that makes you say, “I didn’t know that?!”

The 99% invisible podcast will effectively blow your mind with each episode. Choose whichever one grabs your attention and you’ll discover how this illuminating investigative journalism reveals the incredible influences overlooked designs such as the peace sign have on our everyday lives. You’ll benefit from the extensive research of others in a compelling way.

NPR: Coronavirus Daily In about 10 minutes this podcast will catch you up on the latest COVID-19 developments. The podcast interviews experts and clearly and concisely explains the most updated news of this pandemic. Mixed with narration, storytelling, statistics, interviews, and other engaging production additions, the podcast makes the sometimes overwhelming coronavirus news easy to digest. Because of the show’s short run-time you can get informed and go on with your day.

Song Exploder Lindsey Buckingham, Solange, Yo-Yo Ma, Mitski, Sheryl Crow, MGMT, Meek Mill, and Iggy Pop are all names among the sweeping guest line-up for the Song Exploder podcast. Dating back to 2014, this veteran podcast will take you on an artist-narrated journey through the extensive process of creating a great song. You’ll become invested in these stories and add some killer new songs to your library. This show offers listeners a unique appreciation for artists both new and familiar and Song Exploder fills every episode with many charming anecdotes.

Oprah’s SuperSoul Conversations Taking care of your mental space is crucial for being able to take on a day of productivity. When I feel my best and the most present, I work my best. In this podcast Oprah Winfrey interviews spiritual teachers, successful authors, doctors, superstars like Dwayne Johnson and Bradley Cooper, public icons like Michelle Obama and Melinda Gates, and many other notable people to gather insight on their tools to navigate life. You’ll learn about the human condition, about ways to handle difficult life obstacles, how to be more conscious and understanding of the spiritual layers and complexities of life.

Freakonomics EP.359: “Should America Be Run by… Trader Joe’s?”

Take a deep dive into Trader Joe’s. This is the podcast episode you didn’t know you needed. Why are the employee’s so nice? What’s up with the tropical t-shirts? Why do I never see an advertisement for this place? Or receive coupons in the mail? Trader Joe’s is a different kind of grocery store, they’re crazy successful, and we love them for it. This episode shares many conversations with behavioral experts, employees, market analysts, die-hard fans and others. You might soon find yourself going to TJ’s for more than their free samples and coffee.

More honorable mentions go to Overheard at National Geographic, Hardcore History (recorded here in Eugene), Radio Cherry Bombe (women rocking the food world), and Duo-lingo (great for learning a new language). However, the best way to find a podcast to enhance your productivity is getting online and finding for yourself what jumps out at you. There’s a little something for everyone.

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COVID-19-Friendly Hikes You Can

Do Right Now

Written by Lauren Bruce | Photographed by Isaac Wasserman

New requirements from Oregon’s governor to stay indoors and stay healthy are an important step towards battling the illness that’s shaken the world. Luckily for Oregonians, it’s still acceptable to enjoy outdoor activities (as long as you maintain a 6-foot distance from others). As the weather warms up and staying indoors gets harder, here’s five hikes you can do near

Eagles Rest Trail

Willamette National Forest in Dexter, 4.9 miles moderate out and back This trail is beautiful for anyone who’s willing to head outside of Eugene. About a 30 minute drive away, this moderate hike will leave you feeling renewed. Keep in mind, the road up to the trailhead is heavily potholed, so don’t make the drive if your vehicle won’t be able to trekk it. At 1,328 feet elevation gain, this trail will be difficult for less experienced hikers. Refrain from bringing dogs, as frequent gunshots are often heard from a nearby gun range. On highway 58, turn immediately after the Hardesty Trail sign before the bridge. Drive about 3 miles up this bumpy road and at the “Y” go left. After .7 miles turn right. There are no signs for this trail according to the AllTrails website. Always know your directions before you go.

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Eugene with enough space on the trails to maintain your distance from others. *Before you go out, always check online sources for trail closures and for estimated trail traffic based on the month. If it’s a heavily trafficked area, keep in mind it may be especially crowded now and make responsible choices.

Hike to the Mount Pisgah Swing Trail Springfield, 1.9 miles easy-moderate loop This 1.9 mile trail is flat and dog-friendly, as long as they stay on the leash. Inexperienced hikers may find this a moderately-difficult hike, but it is often used as a running trail for more experienced hikers and joggers. The “end” of the trail features a swing that looks over Springfield and Eugene. Start at the North Trailhead, at Howard Buford Recreation Area. Start on Trail #3 (West Slope Trail)

Camas Crest Trail

Canyon Creek Meadows

Camas Crest, which is typically a mountain biking trail, has stellar views for those who are interested in trekking it. Although primarily for biking, it’s typically less frequented and therefore makes it a good socialdistancing trail. The first mile is a slight climb to the top of the trail, and at which point you descend back down the trail. Leashed dogs are allowed. Start earlier on a hot day, as there isn’t shade on the trail. Start on Weyerhaeuser Road at the trailhead.

This hike is an Oregon favorite for those who are looking for an all-day or camping experience. Plan your visit according to local regulations.

This backpackable trail will lend incredible views for those who are prepared for an advanced hike. Start at Jack Lake Trailhead and follow the signs for Canyon Creek Meadows. Stay on this 6.5 loop trail to experience views of Three Finger Jack and the Upper Canyon Creek Meadow and loop back to your car after a long, fulfilling day.

Springfield, 2 miles moderate out and back

Willamette National Forest near Bend, 6.5 miles moderate-difficult loop

Long Tom River Trail Veneta, 1.5 miles, easy out and back

If you don’t want to spend all day on a trail, or are looking to stay local, this trail near Fern Ridge is an easy escape from inside the walls of your apartment. The Long Tom River trail takes you along the river through trees and wildlife habitat. Leashed dogs are allowed. This hike is particularly good for the winter and early spring, as it is a mosquitobreeding ground in the summer.

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