Oregon Family Magazine by Oregon Family Magazine

Engaging the Daydreamer Page 8

School Gadget Guide Page 16

Concussion Awareness Page 15

Not So Nuts About Nature? Page 20

Must Have Apps for Parents Page 21 O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M â&#x20AC;¢ O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

Preventative care is the foundation for good health. Start with an annual pediatric or

adolescent well child check and finish with a flu vaccine. During your visit, your provider will take a look at your child’s overall health, immunizations, important milestones and help with any questions you might have, including emotional well-being. It also includes the elements of a sports physical.

Annual well checks are covered by most insurance and most insurance covers a flu shot as part of your visit. Call your clinic directly to get scheduled. If you’re not yet a patient, call our New Patient Line for help finding the best match of provider and location for you and your family. All OMG clinics are accepting children of all ages — from newborns to adolescents.

Crescent Medical Clinic: 541-686-9000 Valley Children’s Clinic: 541-746-5437 Garden Way Medical Clinic: 541-746-6816 West Eugene Medical Clinic: 541-461-8006 Southtowne Medical Clinic: 541-687-1668 Westmoreland Medical Clinic: 541-686-1711 New Patient Line: 541-242-4444 Pediatrics + 22 Other Specialty Areas • 10 Neighborhood Locations • OregonMedicalGroup.com

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9 • O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M

T R I P L E P : T H E P O S I T I V E PA R E N T I N G P R O G R A M

Top 10 Tips For Parents

Talk to your child about things they are interested in and share aspects of your day with them.

L e a r n m o r e a n d s i g n u p a t L a n e T r i p l e P. o r g Tr i p l e P On l i n e i s f re e f o r Tr i l l i u m ( OH P ) m e m b e r s ! • Tr i p l e P e s t a d i s p o n i b l e e n e s p a ñ o l .

3 OFF

a notch

BAKE IT UP

Family Size Pizza

Home bake a scratch-made pizza in just 15 minutes.

$3 off your order when you buy a Family Size pizza. Discount off regular menu price. Excludes FAVES® and XLNY® pizzas.

Large Gourmet Delite® Chicken Bacon Artichoke Chicken, Bacon, Artichoke Hearts, Spinach, Parmesan, Zesty Herbs with Creamy Garlic Sauce on Thin Crust

IN-STORE ORDERS ONLY Expires 11/4/2019. Limit 1. Not valid with any other offer. Valid only at participating locations. Coupons cannot be sold, transferred or duplicated. SBP-09

1563-OF092818

IN-STORE ORDERS ONLY Expires 11/4/2019. Limit 1. Not valid with any other offer. Valid only at participating locations. Coupons cannot be sold, transferred or duplicated. SBP-09

Chicago-Style Stuffed™ Pizza

Large 5-Meat Stuffed Pizza

Stuffed with Red Sauce, Salami, Pepperoni, Italian Sausage, Ground Beef, Mixed Onions, topped with Tomatoes, Green Onions, Cheddar

Two layers of Original Crust Stuffed with Red Sauce, Canadian Bacon, Pepperoni, Sausage, Bacon, Mozzarella, topped with Ground Beef, Cheddar

IN-STORE ORDERS ONLY

Expires 11/4/2019. Limit 1. Not valid with any other offer. Valid only at participating locations. Coupons cannot be sold, transferred or duplicated.

Limited time offer. Offer valid for Large Signature Cowboy pizza on Thin or Original crust only. No substitutions. Additional charge for additional toppings. Available at participating locations. Not valid with any other offers.

EUGENE • 541-344-5189 1711 Willamette St

SPRINGFIELD • 541-744-2475 5727 Main St • McKenzie Shopping Ctr

EUGENE • 541-431-6882 2911 W 11th Ave • intersection of W 11th/Oak Patch

SPRINGFIELD • 541-741-8886 1810 Olympic St • Mohawk Shopping Ctr

LARGE COWBOY

1458-OF092818

SBP-09

924-OF092818

Expires 11/4/2019. Limit 1. Not valid with any other offer. Valid only at participating locations. Coupons cannot be sold, transferred or duplicated. SBP-09

1588-OF092818

ON THE NEW

PapaMurphys.com

EUGENE • 541-686-6615 1508 Coburg Rd • in Sheldon Plaza we welcome

at participating locations

17-3119-OF-COW12

Offer available at participating locations on Tuesday only. In-store Family Size prices may vary. Includes Signature, Gourmet Delite®, Fresh Pan, Stuffed or Create Your Own pizza up to 5 toppings; topping additions to recipe pizzas will result in additional charges.

O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

Engaging the Daydreamer

8 STRONG

october 6 Earthtalk Greener School Buses

21 11 Must-Have Parenting Phone Apps

12 Calendar of Events

22 Family Movie Time The Peanut Butter Falcon

16 Strategies for a Successful School Year 20 Nearby Nature Not so Nuts About Nature?

24 Dad’s Eye View A Father’s Humorous Perspective 26 Rescue Spotlight

Fall Family Fun in Lane County

Concussion Awareness

25 YEARS

Oregon Family Magazine is distributed through Eugene, Springfield, Creswell, Veneta, Elmira and Junction City elementary and middle schools, most area private schools, and over 300 commercial locations throughout Lane county. PUBLISHER

Pacific Parents Publishing EDITOR

Sandy Kauten CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kimberly Blaker Rick Epstein Bonnie L. Harris Kelli Matthews Christa Melnyk Hines Beth Stein GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT

Springer Design & Illustration ADVERTISING

Christi Kessler • 541.484.0434 christi@oregonfamily.com Sandy Kauten • 541.683.7452 sandy@oregonfamily.com OREGON FAMILY MAGAZINE

P.O. Box 21732 Eugene, OR 97402 541.683.7452 Email: info@oregonfamily.com Web: www.oregonfamily.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/OregonFamily

FOUNDED IN 1993 Opinions expressed by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily the opinions of this publication.

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9 • O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M

In times of sickness and wellness, we are with you every step of the way.

Karen Ortiz, M.D., F.A.A.P., brings genuineness and compassion to each patient visit and strives to help children and their families be well, physically and emotionally. Proficient in medical Spanish, Dr. Ortiz recognizes that each family is unique and focuses on building lasting relationships, from birth through young adulthood.

To schedule an appointment, call 541-HUG-KIDS. 995 Willagillespie Road, Suite 100 â&#x20AC;˘ 541-484-5437 â&#x20AC;˘ www.EugenePeds.com

Earthtalk from the Editors of “E” the Environmental Magazine

Dear EarthTalk: I’ve heard that school buses cause a lot of pollution, especially for the kids riding inside. Is anyone making greener school buses yet? — Jake McConnell, Philadelphia, PA

2019 study from researchers at Georgia State University found that students did significantly better on standardized English tests and marginally better in math when they spent their commutes riding in school buses retrofitted to reduce emissions by 95 percent as compared to students riding in non-upgraded buses. The researchers conclude Research shows that replacing or retrofitting dirty old diesel school buses can reduce the pollution inhaled by students significantly and can even lead to better health and higher standardized test scores.

PHOTO: MADAME.FURIE, FLICKRCC

ow that school is back in session, those big yellow diesel-fueled school buses are all over the roads again. While they’re relatively safe—and definitely old school—they’re also big polluters, chugging along at 4-6 miles to the gallon while creating a cloud of harmful airborne pollutants. According to the non-profit Clean Air Trust (CAT), some 25 million American kids travelling on half a million school buses every day are exposed to five to 15 times more air toxins than the rest of us. “Those buses travel more than four billion miles each year and these kids spend three billion hours on [them],” reports the group. “About 90 percent of these buses run on diesel fuel, annually emitting 3,000 tons of cancer-causing soot and 95,000 tons of smog-causing compounds.” If you don’t think all that pollution is having a negative effect, think again. A March

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9 • O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M

that “engine retrofits can have meaningful and cost-effective impacts on health and cognitive functioning.” Luckily the retrofits are easy to come by and relatively inexpensive, especially when you factor in the costs of health care to treat sick kids, not to mention the price tag for raising kids’ test scores in other ways. Retrofitting 10 percent of the average school district’s bus fleet in Georgia, for instance, would cost less than $100,000, a drop in the bucket of the state’s $10.6 billion K-12 public schools budget. And beginning in October 2018, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set aside $9 million to help pay for upgrading older diesel school buses nationwide. School districts and other public agencies charged with transporting school kids can apply for rebates of up to $20,000 per bus to help cover the retrofits on up to 10 individual buses. Retrofitting is a great start, but even better would be replacing old buses with new, more efficient all-electric models. But few school districts can justify the $300,000 price tag to replace perfectly functional older diesel

buses. That didn’t stop the school district in White Plains, New York, though, which purchased five electric buses last year with financial help from the local utility, Consolidated Edison, and a grant from the state. These outside contributions helped bring the final cost to the school district down to something along the lines of buying new diesel buses. While ConEd gets the benefit of good public relations and good karma, it also gets to use the buses during the summer as excess electricity storage that can be moved around to where it’s needed most (when the air conditioners are blazing). White Plains is hoping other school districts across the country will follow a similar model to clean up their acts. CONTACTS: Clean Air Trust, cleanairtrust.org; “School bus emissions, student health and academic performance,” sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/ pii/S0272775719301530#!. EarthTalk® is produced by Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss for the 501(c)3 nonprofit EarthTalk. See more at https://emagazine.com. To donate, visit https://earthtalk.org. Send questions to: question@earthtalk.org.

Family Health

Q&A with Jonathan Sims, MD

Mammograms Save Lives Four Important Facts to Know about Breast Cancer FACT 1: The Pacific Northwest has one of the highest rates of Breast Cancer in the United States. FACT 2: Mammography detects 85 to 90 percent of all breast cancers. When diagnosed early, the five-year survival rate is 95 percent. FACT 3: Women with dense breasts (more glandular and fibrous tissue), which show on mammograms, have a risk of breast cancer that is about 1 in 5 — that’s two times that of women that don’t have dense breasts. FACT 4: Although a family history of breast cancer can mean an increased risk, about 75 percent of women diagnosed have no identifiable risk factors for the disease. Mammograms save lives. It’s that simple. Research and statistics prove that regular screening helps doctors detect breast cancer early, when it’s most treatable. Schedule yours today.

Common Mammography Questions What is a 3D Mammogram? Digital Breast Tomosynthesis, also referred to as “3-Dimensional mammography” (3-D Mammography) or tomosynthesis, uses a dedicated electronic detector system to obtain multiple projection images which are “synthesized” by the computer to create thin slices of the breast. While the images are not truly 3-dimensional, individual slices can be displayed for review by the radiologist. In addition, this technology gives us a completely new way to look at the breast, while producing shorter exam times and faster results. It also produces less Radiation as the standard Digital Mammography, which is a bonus. Do Mammograms Hurt? We are committed to making your next mammogram a gentle one. With our new technology and FAST Paddle™ system, we position our patients and perform our exam with care. It can be uncomfortable for some women. When Do I Get My Results? Screening mammogram results are made available to your physician within a few business days. You normally receive the results within one week. If you are at our clinic for a diagnostic study, you receive the results the same day.

“Not all Mammograms are created equally,” says Dr. Jonathan Sims. “Since we adopted 3D mammography here at Oregon Imaging Centers, almost immediately our recall rate decreased nearly 50%. What that means to patients is that they aren’t coming back unnecessarily for the things that turn out to be nothing, and at the same time 3D Mammography allows us to detect more cancers.” Dr. Sims, Medical Director, Women’s Imaging, specializes in Women’s Imaging and Musculoskeletal radiology. He received his medical degree and MBA from the University of South Florida, where he also completed his residency and internship. In 2007, he completed his fellowship in musculoskeletal MRI. Dr. Sims joined Radiology Associates in July of 2008.

O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9 â&#x20AC;¢ O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M

Engaging the Daydreamer W

by Christa Melnyk Hines

hen my son’s second grade teacher told me that he often appeared to “check out” during the school day, I was concerned. But I wasn’t entirely surprised that my imaginative child would drift off to his dream world, an infinitely more colorful place than a math facts worksheet. Nonetheless, his daydreaming needed to be addressed. While many dreamers are creative and bright children, they may have trouble getting work done during the school day, struggle with paying attention to the teacher and forget to turn in homework. Worse, they can easily get pegged as slackers. “The tendency to daydream--though it may be one symptom of Attention Deficit Disorder-does not automatically equal a problem with paying attention when necessary or completing tasks,” writes Amy Fries, author of Daydreams at Work: Wake Up Your Creative Powers. “A child who enjoys daydreaming could well be a budding scientist, writer, artist or visionary entrepreneur.” Because daydreams play an important role in a child’s social-emotional development and creativity, you wouldn’t want to quash a child’s imagination. Rather, the goal is to help him channel the behavior to more appropriate times of the day. Daydreaming isn’t uncommon. A study conducted by Harvard psychologists found that we tend to daydream about 47 percent of the time. Some of our society’s most innovative change makers, artists and inventors like Thomas Edison, Mark Twain and Albert Einstein were famous daydreamers.

O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

Where Fitness is Fun and Confidence Grows! Making a positive difference in the lives of Lane County’s youth for 44 years OUR NATIONAL RENOWNED PROGRAMS INCLUDE:

Try a Free Class!

Preschool Gymnastics School Age Gymnastics Adult Gymnastics Ninja Classes Silks Classes Boys and Girls Teams Birthday Parties Parents Night Out Camps for No School Days

National Academy of Artistic Gymnastics 1 2 0 5 o a k p atc h rd, e u g e n e, | 5 4 1 - 3 4 4 - 2 0 0 2 | w w w. n a a g - g y m n a s t i c s. o rg

SECOND SATURDAYS at the museum

While the future may be bright for dreamers, it is necessary to find ways to help children engage in order to learn and enjoy success in a structured academic environment. “The daydreamer is usually fascinated by something that’s been said and is off in that world,” says Dr. Gay Lynn Pendleton Smith, assistant dean of the University of Phoenix College of Education. The secret to reaching a dreamer, she says, is to teach him how to engage outside of his imagination. “That’s really hard in today’s fast-paced world. Our children are connected to a handheld technology device that gives them one-on-one attention and then we put them in a classroom and ask them to focus on something and do something they haven’t done before.

Signs of inattentiveness disorder, which is on the ADHD spectrum:

Family Activities | Crafts | Exhibits 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Second Saturday of the month Show your Oregon Trail card for an admission discount.

• Easily distracted, miss details, forget things, and frequently switch from one activity to another

1680 East 15th Avenue, Eugene | 541-346-3024 | mnch.uoregon.edu

• Have difficulty focusing on one thing • Become bored with a task after only a few minutes, unless they are doing something enjoyable

Fall for fresh

• Have difficulty focusing attention on organizing and completing a task or learning something new • Have trouble completing or turning in homework assignments, often losing things (e.g., pencils, toys, assignments) needed to complete tasks or activities • Doesn’t seem to listen when spoken to

Proudly serving our family’s Lochmead products We sell our family’s Lochmead milk and ice cream at your local Dari Mart. We milk our cows just north of Junction City, and within 48 hours, the milk is in our stores. Now, that’s fresh! We’re in your neighborhood. Come see us soon!

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9 • O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M

• Daydream, become easily confused, and move slowly • Have difficulty processing information as quickly and accurately as others

darimart.com /darimart

/darimartsm

• Struggle to follow instructions SOURCE: NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF MENTAL HEALTH

And that’s to engage with a whole group of people and to focus on one individual,” Smith says. How can you re-engage your daydreamer? Ensure quiet observation time. Consider if your child is getting enough time to play quietly on his own. Kids given regular quiet time are more likely to exhibit time management and problem solving abilities. Time alone also fosters creativity, selfconfidence and independence. Plus, solitude gives kids the opportunity to drive their own play without having to compromise or go along with what the group demands. Seek physical and creative outlets. “Outside activities will satisfy some of that dream mode so that when they get in the classroom they can engage and start to think,” Smith says. Activities like swimming, karate, art, theater or playing an instrument can nurture concentration skills and provide avenues for self-expression. Encourage note-taking. Talk to your child’s teacher about having him take notes or write down basic words or pictures describing what the teacher says. Older children can also write down thoughts that come up on an idea pad. That way they won’t lose the thought, but can continue to focus on the teacher or task at hand. Discuss seating arrangements. Talk to the teacher about seating your child toward the front of the classroom or just off to the side. By being in the middle of the action, her thoughts may be less likely to wander. Ask questions. Encourage your child to think of questions she can ask the teacher during instructional time. Also look for opportunities to connect with and listen to your child one-on-one, whether driving in the car or while engaged in a creative process like cooking or baking. Knowing that you are interested in her thoughts may help her feel less inclined to drift off. If your child continues to struggle with focus and paying attention, consult with your pediatrician. Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two boys. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World. Visit her at www.christamelnykhines.com.

This year the youngest great-grandchildren of founder Aaron Jones—Jake (6), Ava (5), and Parker (8)—helped plant Senecaʼs 40 millionth tree. If these 40 million seedlings were laid end to end, they would cross the U.S. 5 ½ times. Seneca is cultivating a legacy of innovation, sustainable forestry, and renewable building materials for the communities of today—and tomorrow.

O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

october

Yuyi Morales Book signing, Saturday, October26th Saturday, Park blocks, rain or shine. 10:00am – 5pm, Ph 686-8885, FREE! “2PM Talks.” A docent-led talk every Tues thru Sun at the Museum of Natural and Cultural History, included with price of admission. Ph 541.346.3024

events

Story Times Springfield Library story times. Baby and Toddler Story time (ages 3-6) Tues and Weds 10:00-10:30am. Chapter Book Storytime (preschool – grade 2) Mon 6:30-7:15pm. Cuentos Bilingual Storytime, all ages, 11am12pm, Springfield Library, FREE! Ph 541.726.3766 Barnes & Noble weekly story time. Whimsical Weds 7:00pm. Toddler-Time, Weds 11:00am. Saturdays at 11:00am. Call for weekly themes. Ph 541.687.0356 Creswell Library Story times. (ages 0-36 months): Board/Picture books, songs, lap bounces, and rhymes. Toddler Storytime (ages 3-5): picture Books, storytelling, songs, rhymes, early literacy activities and crafts. Ph 541.895.3053 Fern Ridge Library Storytimes (recurring weekly). Pre-K Storytimes (ages 3-5) Wed 11-11:30am followed by craft time. Baby & Toddler Storytimes (ages 0-3) Friday 11-11:30am followed by play group. FREE! Ph 541.393.1046 Early STEM Storytime! Join our educators as we read a story and lead a hands-on activity designed for early learners. Each storytime is a unique expansion of Tot Discovery Day from the first Friday of the month. Eugene Science Center, 2nd 3rd and 4th Friday of each month, ages 0-5, 11-11:30am, Ph 541.682.7887

Dog Tale Story Time. Kids have fun and build skills in short one-on-one sessions reading to trained dogs and handlers’ courtesy of PAAWS. Every Sat, Dntwn Eugene Library, 2-3:30pm, FREE! Ph 541.682.8316 Downtown Eugene Library storytimes. Toddler Storytime, Tues 10:15am and 11:00am. Pajama Storytime, Tues 6:30pm. Preschool Storytime, Wed 10:15am and 11:00am. Music & Movement Storytime, Thurs 10:15am and 11:00am. Baby Storytime, Fri 10:15am and 11:15am. Sheldon and Bethel Branches: Family Storytime, Fri 10:15am. FREE! Ph 541.682.8316 Adventure! Story Time. A rotation of awesome storytellers will read, tell felt board stories, make craft projects, chat with puppets, and generally bring the fun every Friday from 11:05-11:25am. Adventure! Children’s Museum, FREE! Ph 541.653.9629

On-Going Year-Round Saturday Kids Workshops at MECCA. From magnetic puzzles to robots to sock creatures. No need to pre-reg. All materials are included. Kids under 10 accompanied by an adult. Each week features a different creative reuse project. MECCA, 11am – 3pm, $3-5, Ph 541.302.1810 Kids Minecrafters. Play together, share tips, and get creative with building challenges on

Eugene Science Center. Our ever-changing exhibits and Planetarium feature something for everyone! Explore science topics, astronomy, mechanics, optics, water quality, and nanotechnology. See website for features, admission, dates, and times. Ph 541.682.7888 Eugene Library computers. Ages 6 - 12. Limited space, pre-reg required. Dntwn Eugene Library, Tuesdays @ 4pm, FREE! Ph 541.682.8316 Table Tennis for Kids. Tues and Thurs 5:156:15 and Saturdays 1:30-2:30. All sessions are free. Equipment and coaching provided. $40 annual Boys & Girls Club membership required. Ph 541.345.9939 Playtime for Parents and Children. Children 4 and under can join every Monday to play in our welcoming playroom filled with baby dolls, books, trucks, soft dough, and more. Parenting Now! 10am-12pm, nominal fee, Ph 541.484.5316 Reading with Cats. Designed to help younger supporters give back to animals while developing reading skills and compassion. Also promotes animal-savvy behavior and gives cats get positive, calm time with children. Children ages 6 - 12. Days: Mon 12pm & 3:30pm, Tues 1pm & 4pm. Greenhill Humane Society, FREE! Ph 541.689.1503 Public Skate @ The Ice Center. Call for skate times. Ph 541.682.3615 Saturday Market/Farmers Market. The oldest, open-air market in the US. Offers great food, local crafts, and live entertainment. Every

Pre-K Planetarium Show: Stories in the Stars. Designed with our younger visitors in mind, this live, interactive planetarium show is a wonderful introduction to the planetarium. 25 minutes. Fri and Sat, 10:30am, Eugene Science Center, Ph 541.682.7888 Playtime for Parents and Child. Join us in the Parenting Now! playroom for fun and socialization. For families with children up to 4 years old. Parenting Now! Mondays from10am-noon, nominal fee, Ph 541.484.5316

1 TUESDAY Teens at 4:30. Adulteen 101: Cake Decorating. Teens ages 12+ Springfield Library, 4:305:30pm, Ph 541.726.3766

2 WEDNESDAY Matcha Latte. This unusual duo brings together koto – Japanese traditional musical instrument played by Koto Master Masumi Timson, and violin played by Fumino Ando. Downtown Eugene Library, FREE! Ph 541.682.5450 Ideas on Tap. Quench your thirst for knowledge at Ideas on Tap, the Museum of Natural and Cultural History’s monthly pub talk. This month: Private Prisons: are they constitutional? Join UofO Asst. law professor Angela Addae for a discussion of these issues and a look at how one court banned private prisons altogether. Free/space limited. 6-7pm, Arrive early to secure a seat. Viking Braggot Company’s Southtowne Pub. 541.515.6314

3 THURSDAY Little Family Yoga with Brynne Blevins. Springfield Library, 10:30am, FREE! Ph 541.726.3766 Experience Hendrix. Feature guitar wizard Joe Satriani and the triumphant return of blues legend Buddy Guy, as well as Dweezil Zappa, Jonny Lang and Eric Johnson. Mainstays Billy Cox, Slide Brothers and Doyle Bramhall II will also be on board for the duration. Hult Center, 7:30pm, $48-65.75, Ph 541.682.5000

4 FRIDAY PHOTO: COLIN MORTON

First Friday Artwalk. Starts at The New Zone Gallery (22 W 7th Ave). In Kesey Square,

EugeneCascadesCoast.org/Events/ Oregon Fall Foliage

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9 • O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M / C A L E N D A R

Wordcrafters in Eugene presents “Fill the Square with Poetry!” Join us for poetry and spoken word performances, interactive poetry games and more. 5:30-8pm, FREE! Ph 541.485.2278

roots-music storyteller returns on his fall solo tour. The Shedd’s intimate Jaqua Concert Hall, 7:30-9:00pm, $47-65, Ph 541.484.7000

11 FRIDAY

6 SUNDAY

Radio Redux: 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. A dramatic radio-theater telling of the futuristic 1866 novel by Jules Verne. Hult Center, 7:30pm, $23-26.25, Ph 541.682.5000

Radio Redux: 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. 2pm, see the 4th

Lego Club. Build with Lego, Duplo, and Mega blocks. We’ll supply everything, just bring your creativity. Display your creations in the library until the next Lego Club day. Springfield Library, 2-4pm, FREE! Ph 541.726.3766

FREE First Friday at the Museum. Investigate Oregon’s amazing fossils and ecosystems and delve into its cultural history. Also, get 20% a one-year membership on Duck home game weekends. Museum of Natural History, 11am5pm, Ph 541.346.3024 Culture Caravan. A mobile media kiosk that turns virtual reality inside-out to deliver rich and immersive experiences to those with little or no access to live performances, media arts and dance. Kesey Square, 8-9pm, FREE!

5 SATURDAY Family Music Time. Sing and dance your way into the weekend! Today enjoy musical fun in Spanish and English with Bryan Reed. Dntwn Eugene Library, 10:15am, FREE! Ph 541.682.8316 Radio Redux: 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. 2pm, see the 4th Track Town Throwdown. Outdoor swing dance with live music and an introductory lesson followed by a swing dance performance featuring local and regional dancers. Kesey Square, 3-5pm, FREE! Keb ‘Mo’. Four-time Grammy winning bluesinfluenced singer-songwriter and visionary

Family Fun: Mariachi Calavera. A bilingual celebration with live music for kids and family of all ages. Downtown Eugene Library, 2pm, FREE! Ph 541.682.8316

8 TUESDAY Nourish: Food for Life. Pick up fresh recipes and cooking tips at these monthly cooking demonstrations. During Lane Farmers Market. Park Blocks, 10:30-11:30am, FREE! Teens at 4:30. Teen Flicks: Detective Pikachu. Teens ages 12+ Springfield Library, 4:305:30pm, FREE! Ph 541.726.3766

Second Friday Art Walk. Starts at Springfield City Hall, 5:00pm, FREE!

U of O Football. Ducks take on U of Colorado at Autzen! 7:00pm, Goducks.com Lane County Home Improvement Show. 250 exhibits featuring experts, products and services for homes and yards. Lane Events Center, 5-9pm, FREE! Ph 541.484.9247

Second Saturday’s at the Museum. Dig into activities that will spark your child’s curiosity about our past, present, and future. This month: Oregon’s civil rights era. Crafts and other hands-on activities explore the history of racial justice and civil rights advocacy. Museum of Natural History, 11am-3pm, FREE! Ph 541.346.3024 Family Music Time. Sing and dance your way into the weekend! Today Rich Glauber educates and entertains. Dntwn Eugene Library, 10:15am, FREE! Ph 541.682.8316 MindNificent. Elrod Center community BBQ and Dessert Dash. River Road Park, 3-6pm Culture Caravan. See the 4th

12 SATURDAY Lane County Home Improvement Show. 10am-8pm, see the 11th

continued on next page…

Reggio inspired, high-quality preschool education for the entire community

Preschool Art and Science Storytime (ages 0-6). Designer for precocious preschoolers. Teaches about science and art in harmony. Springfield Library, 10:30-11:15am, FREE! Ph 541.726.3766

9 WEDNESDAY The Water Boys. Hult Center, 7:30pm, $3348.75, Ph 541.682.5000

“where children grow”

NAEYC nationallyaccredited with the highest rating by Oregon’s Quality Rating Improvement System

10 THURSDAY Yoga Okie! Join us downtown to croon along with your cat-cow. A mindful, fun all-ages yoga class with live singalong to open your heart. Kesey Square, 5:30-7pm, FREE! U of O Football. Ducks take on California at Autzen! Goducks.com

Private Lessons

Call us for a tour! (541)-463-5517

lanecc.edu/cfe/lcfc

The Shedd Institute www.theshedd.org - 541.434.7000

Mon-Sat 9 am - 8 pm

Los Lonely Boys Oct 17

The Music Box! Wednesdays at 4 pm

Music & World Cultures School & home school learning concerts

Dan Neal

Keb’ Mo’ Oct 5

Heartwood

Oct 4

The Jazz Kings

JennyScheinman-AllisonMiller [ParlourGame] WedOctober23 + ToddSickafoose [BearProof] October The John G. Shedd Institute for the Arts

Community Music School Classes & private lessons for all ages � Contact the registrar today! � 541.434.7015 / registrar@theshedd.net

OrFam-Shedd 2019-10.indd 1

Get Happy! Thursday & Sunday, Oct 10 & 13 Jaqua Concert Hall, The Shedd

Broadway Gems 1924-34

25-27

Evynne Hollens Contemporary Songbook VI

9/22/2019 12:39:28 AM

O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M / C A L E N D A R • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

Haunted Hike Friday, October 18 (see box below) Dorris Ranch Dirt Dash. A perfect way to get kids into running! Ages 5 and up invited to race to the finish over the 3K course that meanders through scenic Dorris Ranch. 10-11am, $9-11 (free to Willamalane After School All-Stars and Middle School Sports). Ph 541.736.4544

22 TUESDAY Teens @ 4:30. Sock Monsters! Teens ages 12+ Springfield Library, 4:30-5:30pm, FREE! Ph 541.726.3766

13 SUNDAY Family Fun. Create traditional crafts at this bilingual activity with Jessica Zapata of Eugene Arte Latino. Downtown Eugene Library, 2pm, FREE! Ph 541.682.8316 Lane County Home Improvement Show. 10am-5pm, see the 11th Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Fight back against Alzheimer’s and dementia at this walk, which also includes a ceremony in memory and in honor of those who live with and love people affected by Alzheimer’s. All ages, Alton Baker Park, 2pm, FREE/Donations, Ph 541.230.9598

14 MONDAY Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Learn about and celebrate 14,000 of Native culture in Oregon - from the First Americans at Paisley Caves to the dynamic culture of today’s Tribes. FREE admission in honor of Indigenous Peoples’ Day! Museum of Natural and Cultural History. 11am-5pm, Ph 541.346.3024

Family Night: Monster Dance. Come stomp and twirl to homemade tunes! Bethel Branch Library, 6:30pm, FREE! Ph 541.682.8316

Eugene Library, 10:15am, FREE! Ph 541.682.8316 Yuyi Morales Book Signing. The bestselling and award-winning children’s book author and illustrator joins us for signing and book purchase of her latest book “Dreamers”. Dntwn Eugene Library, 3pm, FREE! Ph 541.682.8316 U of O Football. Ducks take on Washington State at Autzen! Goducks.com

27 SUNDAY Nickelodeon presents, Double Dare Live. The messiest game show on TV is now the messiest game show on the road! Slime soaking, pie plastering, and booger busting will be hosted by the Double Dare legend himself Marc Summers! Hult Center, 6:30pm, $28-77, Ph 541.682.5000

History Pub. Halloween Trivia. Drinks and Food Truck Pod available for purchases. All ages. Dark & Stormy Springfield, 5:30-7:00pm, FREE! Ph 458.210.2983

Mushroom Festival. Check out our giant exhibit of local mushrooms. Hayrides, live music, nature walks, crafts, activities, vendors, food and drinks, and more. Mount Pisgah Arboretum, 10am-5pm, $10/pp, Ph 541.747.3817

Family Music Time. Sing and dance your way into the weekend! Today, Jody St. Clair. Dntwn Eugene Library, 10:15am, FREE! Ph 541.682.8316

24 THURSDAY

29 TUESDAY

U of O Football. Ducks take on Washington at Autzen! Goducks.com

25 FRIDAY

as you create apple crafts, play games, and discover some of apples’ many uses. Museum of Natural and Cultural History, ages 3-5, 10:30 – 11:30am, $3-10, Ph 541.346.3024

19 SATURDAY

20 SUNDAY The Second City’s Greatest Hits (Vol. 59) Come witness the next generation of comedy superstars put their spin on the legendary comedy company’s greatest hits, rebooted and re-imagined for today. Hult Center, 6:30pm, $35-39.75, Ph 541.682.5000

23 WEDNESDAY

Culture Caravan. See the 4th

26 SATURDAY Family Music Time. Sing and dance your way into the weekend! Today, Kris Olsen. Dntwn

Teens @ 4:30. Teen Flicks: Scooby-Doo. Teens ages 12+ Springfield Library, 4:30-5:30pm, FREE! Ph 541.726.3766

30 WEDNESDAY An evening with Jason Mraz & Raining Jane. Mraz has earned numerous diamond and platinum certifications for his various releases, including his classic singles “I Won’t Give Up,” “Lucky,” and the record-breaking “I’m Yours.” Hult Center, 8pm, $41.50-114.75, Ph 541.682.5000

Harvest/Halloween Happenings

15 TUESDAY Teens @ 4:30. Spooky Stories. Teens ages 12+ Springfield Library, 4:30-5:30pm, FREE! Ph 541.726.3766 Family Night: Monster Dance. Come stomp and twirl to homemade tunes! Sheldon Branch Library, 6:30pm, FREE! Ph 541.682.8316

16 WEDNESDAY National Fossil Day. Join the Museum of Natural and Cultural History for a fossil-focused Walk & Talk through our Explore Oregon exhibit. 1 hour, talks begin at noon, $4-12, Ph 541.346.3024

17 THURSDAY Little Family Yoga with Brynne Blevins. Springfield Library, 10:30am, FREE! Ph 541.726.3766 All ages Game Night. Come play a variety of classic and modern board games, card games, tabletop games, video games, and virtual reality games. Downtown Eugene Library, 5-7pm, FREE! Ph 541.682.8316 Los Lonely Boys. Playing what they call ‘Texican Rock n’ Roll’,” which combines elements of rock, Texas blues, brown-eyed soul, country, and Tejano. The Shedd Institute, 7:30-9:00pm, $26.25-43, Ph 541.484.7000

18 FRIDAY Little Wonders: Stories and Activities for Pre-K. This month: Oregon Apples. Learn about the abundance of apples in Oregon

Colonial Harvest Days and Corn Maze. Take a tractor hayride to the pumpkin patch, visit farm animals and sunflower labyrinth. Shop for holiday favorites including ornamental and popping corn, pumpkins, fall flower bouquets, crafts and goodies to eat. Live music on weekends. Oct 1st - 31st. Northern Lights Christmas Tree Farm. Tues-Thur/10am-5pm, Fri-Sat/10am-10pm, Sun/10am-5pm, $10-35, Ph 541.746.5161 Harvest Dinner at Pfieffer Winery (21 and over) . An elegant five-course fine dining experience. Dinner will feature harvest tapas, a hearty entree and delicious desserts, all catered by Sheild Catering. Music will be performed by the Nancy Hamilton Quartet. Oct 13th 4-7pm, RSVP req. $79, Ph 541.998.2828 Halloween Coffin Races. Soapbox derby cars race down Shelton McMurphey Blvd. Get crafty at a Pumpkins & Power Tools exhibit, enjoy live music and locally brewed cider/beer, local food and coffee options, all while cheering on your favorite team. For races, anybody welcome to sign up to race in coffin-inspired cars. Cars with functional brakes and steering are good to compete, but make sure to dress it up as spooky as can be! October 19th 11:30 – 4pm, 3rd Ave & Lincoln St, Ph 541.682.5542 Pumpkin Auction and Family Halloween Party. Plenty of activities snacks, face

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9 • O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M / C A L E N D A R

painting and pizza. Pick Frankenstein’s Nose, toss gnomes and spin the wheel in fun, ageappropriate games. Tix $.50 for activities and food. Oct 19th Adventure! Children’s Museum, 5-8pm, Ph 541.653.9629 Nearby Nature’s Haunted Hike. Enjoy a pumpkin-lit hike in and meet an entertaining costumed bat, frog, spider, owl, and more. Fun crafts, snacks, games, and a raffle, plus a display of cool raptor claws and wings from the Cascades Raptor Center. Rain or moonshine, Oct 18th 5:30-9 pm, Alton Baker Park Shelter #2. Mem free/non-mem $5/ person. Pre-reg req online for each hourlong walk: nearbynature.org/registration Dorris Ranch Haunted Hayride. Ghosts, zombies and mummies oh my! Ride through the haunted trails of Dorris Ranch, make crafts and play games. Historic figures will emerge from the shadows of the filbert orchards to stir up quite the fright. The ride features performers from Identity Dance. Not too scary – geared towards younger kids. Tix on sale Oct 1 and sell out fast. October 23rd – 26th, $8-10, 5:45 – 8:45, Ph 541.736.4544 Pinots and Pumpkins at Noble Estate Urban Cellar (21 and over). A wine cellar Halloween soiree filled with pumpkins, costumes, music and other harvest favorites. Live music, plenty of temptingly delicious treats, food from Vinnie’s Smokin’ BBQ, local beers and ciders and Noble Estate’s

award-winning wines. Oct 25th Noble Estates Urban Tasting Room, 5-7pm, FREE! Ph 541.338.3307 Halloween Tea at Shelton McMurphey Johnson House. Learn about Victorianera history and customs while enjoying delightful treats at an elegantly prepared table. Tea times include scones, savories, tea sandwiches, dessert and freshly brewed tea. Oct 26th and 27th, 1:00pm, $30, Ph 541.484.0808 The Haunted Market. Bring the little goblins and ghouls for safe tricks in this spooktacular two-night event. Giant professionally carved pumpkins, face painting, story-telling, a photographer and trick-or-treating. Oct 30st – 31st. 5th Street Public Market, 6-8pm, FREE! Ph 541.484.0383 Halloween Carnival. Family friendly fun awaits in the form of carnival games, a haunted house, creepy crafts, sweet treats and sports with a Halloween twist. Come in costume and stay warm and dry throughout the evening. Oct 31st, Bob Keefer Center, $3/ child, 5-7pm, Ph 541.736.4544 Trick-or-Treating in City Hall & Library. Bring the whole family and come trick-ortreat with friends. Oct 31st Springfield City Hall, 3-5pm, FREE! Ph 541.726.3766

Connected

LANE COUNTY SCHOOLS

Concussion Awareness

A Must for All Parents

s Oregon coaches receive mandatory training to help recognize and respond to a student athlete’s possible concussion, understanding has radiated to parents of student athletes and even the young athletes themselves. However, those who are not involved in sports may lag in awareness. In fact, all children and teens are at risk of a concussion, with many sustained off the court or field. The Center for Disease Control reports that sports and recreation activities with the greatest risk for concussion are, in order of greatest risk: 1. Bicycling 2. Football 3. Playground 4. Basketball 5. Soccer 6. All-terrain vehicle riding 7. Skateboarding 8. Swimming 9. Hockey 10. Miscellaneous ball games Any blow to the head or to the body that involves the head, can cause a concussion, which is a mild form of traumatic brain injury

– not something to take lightly. Physicians are quick to emphasize that signs of a concussion may not be obvious and that in most cases, a child does not lose consciousness. “If you have any concern that a child has experienced a concussion, remove them from play and seek medical care. Identification and appropriate early care helps kids recover faster,” counsels Pediatric Neuropsychologist Ryann WatsonStites with Slocum Center’s Concussion program. Concussion warning signs that should prompt a call to the doctor include: • Headache • Unable to think properly or concentrate, confusion • Sleeping more or less than usual or feeling depressed or sad • Feeling sick or vomiting • Feeling dizzy or having problems with balance • Sensitivity to noise or light • Clumsy movements Any of the following symptoms require immediate attention and you should go to the ER or call 9-1-1: • Loss of consciousness or unable to wake up

• Seizures • Loss of memory for more than 24 hours • One pupil larger than the other • Slurred speech • Vomiting C hildren are more vulnerable to a concussion than an adult because their brains are developing. Most children recover from a concussion within a couple weeks, but some children have lasting impact. Because of this, physicians believe all parents should know the signs, and be ready to ask for help. All that said, fear of a concussion should not prompt parents to avoid participation in healthy activities like biking or playing on the playground. “In this age of screens and childhood obesity, we must remember that the health benefits of physical activity including sports far outweigh the risk of concussion,” D r. Wa t s o n - S t i te s emphasizes.

O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

Strategies for a Successful School Year by Kelli Matthews

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9 â&#x20AC;¢ O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M

f your family is anything like ours, your new (school) year resolutions are already starting to unravel. We’ve collected some helpful tips, resources and product recommendations to ensure a successful school year. Routine After a loosey-goosey summer, we crave schedules and routines that come with the new school year. But it doesn’t take long for all our activities to compete with homework, reading time and, let’s be honest, sleep. Tracking chores and regular responsibilities is key. The team at Owlconic makes a magnetic responsibility chore chart that my family loves. The chart has a fully magnetic back and there’s room to track three kids’ daily and weekly chores. My favorite part, though, is the ability to set a goal for the week. My seven-year-old could earn 45 “points” (check marks, stars, etc. for accomplishing a chore) and we set the goal at 30. Each day he tracks his progress, makes sure he’s ahead of his brother in points and figures out which chores he can accomplish tomorrow that he didn’t do today. The constant battle for screen time in our house easily disrupts routines. Addiction to screens — gaming, social media and smart phones — is real and my kids fell into some bad habits this summer. Nicole Dreiske, an educational innovator, children’s media expert and the author of The Upside of Digital Devices, says that strengthening self-awareness and communicating during tech use can help them be more discerning users of social media and video games so you don’t have to always be the screen police. “Before they jump on a device, try saying, ‘Today, let’s notice what we’re feeling and thinking while we’re watching or playing. Then we’ll talk about it afterward,” Dreiske advises. “The process of noticing, then talking helps children build their own content filters.” Watch the Oregon Family Facebook Page for more tips about making screen time a more positive experience. Environment Routine-building is a crucial component for school-year success, but so is having an

environment in which kids can focus, study and read. A study environment should be free of distractions. “Ideally your students should have a quiet, designated place to do homework,” says Jennifer Wozny of Champion Reading. Distractions might be tech-related but it could also be hunger or worries. Before launching into homework, make sure your kids get a snack. We recently tried Wholly Rollies

A Fully adjustable height desk suits every activity for every child.

Frozen Protein Balls from Crazy Richard’s. They’re ready-to-eat from the freezer, bitesize and super satisfying and nutritious. Each flavor has only five ingredients - the Cinnamon Oatmeal is my personal favorite, my second-grader likes the PB & Strawberry. To alleviate the distraction of worry, take a few minutes to talk to your kids about their day first. As kids get older, build a process that helps them track homework, notes and study guides as an important skill for college. Hamelin notebooks, combined with the SCRIBZEE app provide a way to do just this. The notebooks are gorgeous. They have Optik white paper that’s smooth and thick enough that pens don’t bleed through so you can use both sides of the paper. Each page of the notebook has little squares in each corner that serve as anchor points for the SCRIBZEE app to read and scan. Within the app you can save, reorganize into folders, add images and share. I also like to combine the high tech with a relatively low tech tool - Post-It Notes are a

perennial favorite for reminders, flash cards or just to add a smile to a lunch box. Post-It Notes has tons unique formats and designs that can suit your kids’ organizational style. Finally! Don’t forget to have fun. Our brains works best when we move. Chairs that rock and sway or adjustable height desks like those from Portland-based company Fully can encourage movement during study time. Pediatrician Tiffany Nguyen says, “I recommend taking a break every 30-40 minutes for children, 60-90 minutes for adolescents. A break should be about 10 minutes and include muscle-strengthening activities like gymnastics or push-ups, as well as bone strengthening activities like running or jump rope.” My teen loves his Razor A2 power scooter. He puts down the math packet and flies down the block — the fresh air and wind in his hair does wonders for his focus and mood. It’s time to refresh our new (school) year resolutions in our house and it might be the same for you! Let’s set a path for school year success with routines, a great homework environment and a generous dose of fun. Kelli Matthews is a professor, writer and mom of two busy boys who regularly try to disrupt her attempts at creating order out of chaos - but she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Shopping & Resource Guide • Nicole Dreiske — https:// icmediacenter.org/ • Crazy Richard’s Wholly Rollies https://www.crazyrichards.com • Owlconic - Available on amazon.com • Champion Reading - https:// www.championreading.com/ • Hamelin Notebooks - https:// www.hamelin.store/ • Post-It Notes - https://www. post-it.com • Fully Desks and Chairs - https:// www.fully.com/ • Razor Scooters - https://www. razor.com/ O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

Experience L A N

Fall Family Fun on the Farm H

appy harvest! Start a new family tradition by visiting local farms celebrating the season. Colonial Harvest Days at Northern Lights Christmas Tree Farm This farm dresses up for its month-long celebration with educational exhibits and harvest decor, while Pilgrim Bob gives tractor tours looping through Christmas tree crops and past their homestead. Pick the perfect pumpkin from the patch or from pre-picked pumpkins, gourds and squashes on display at the Halloween-themed gift shop and coffee bar. There are two family-friendly corn field mazes – one easy and one more challenging. New maze designs will be revealed this year to celebrate the family’s 25 years of farming, along with a new sunflower labyrinth. On weekends, enjoy live entertainment by the bonfire and local vendors selling delicious treats like pulled pork sandwiches and homemade fudge. Open Sunday, Tuesday –

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9 • O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M

C O U N T Y

PHOTO: EMILY FORSHA

Thursday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Friday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Walt’s Wild Wagon Ride at Johnson Farms During fall, this is the wildest farm around with pumpkin pelting at scarecrows, pumpkin bungee launching at targets and Walt’s Wild Wagon Ride (which really does careen around corners — so hold on tight!). There is also an indoor hay maze built from 1,500 hay bales. Pick a pumpkin from the patch or shop the Johnson Vegetable Farm Store. Along with seasonal produce, year-round you can also purchase ten varieties of homegrown frozen berries (including huckleberries). Open 7 days a week for rides beginning September 26. Apple Daze at Detering Orchards Apples are at peak here with fresh apple cider, hot spiced cider and homemade caramel apples. Munch on locally made tamales and pull up a seat at The Saloon, an open-air, family-friendly hard cider bar featuring Elk Horn Brewery’s

farm-to-table craft beer and ciders. Take a tractor ride to the pumpkin patch or check out the animal corral, treasure mining, cow barrel rides, apple blasters and a corn and hay maze. The marketplace and saloon are open daily with the additional activities on weekends, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Octoberfest at Hentze Family Farm This century-old farm is managed by five generations of the Hentze family and features a marketplace and a cook shack with hot sandwiches and fries. Take a walk in the evening through an acre of trails lit with giant carved jack-o’-lanterns. Along with plenty of pumpkins and animals from geese to goats, the farm has a fantastic collection of vintage tractors. On October 12-13, the farm will celebrate Octoberfest with beer and bratwursts, dancing and live music. Explore family-friends year-round on the South Willamette Valley Food Trail. For more harvest and Halloween events visit www.EugeneCascadesCoast. org/Halloween.

OR Family 0

Eugene Child Development Center • High quality child care and early childhood education ages 2 months – 11 years old • Cooperative play, academic learning & enrichment • Spanish, swimming, yoga and more • 30 years of community-focused service • Before- and After-School care for K-5th grade • Register for no school days, Winter and Spring Break • Now enrolling in Preschool and Pre-K classrooms!

Eugene CDC

Eugene Child Development Center

(formerly EWEB Child Development Center) Eugene Child Development Center

eugenecdc.com • 541-345-8887 • 888 Goodpasture Island Rd, Eugene

Eugene Child Development Center

Local • Natural • Organic Produce Groceries Supplements

Wine & Beer Deli & Meats Juice Bar

BACK TO SCHOOL SPECIAL!

TUTORING SERVICE, INC. College Prep Services: • SAT/ACT Prep • College Admissions: Family Workshop & Private Coaching • Admissions Essay Coaching

Self-Discipline, Concentration, and a Winning Attitude! Ages 5 through teens.

747-3181 • www.eastgatekenpo.com

LANE

One-On-One Tutoring: • Friendly, Certified Teachers • All Subjects, K-12 • We Travel to Your Home

A private lesson, free uniform, and a month of classes for $49.95

4404 Main St. • Springfield

Joshua Hirschstein, Director

8am-10pm • 541.345.1014 2489 Willamette • Eugene capellamarket.com

541-484-4133 lanetutoringservice.com Trusted locally since 1990.

O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

Explore Nearby Nature

Not So Nuts About Nature?

ature. You know you’re supposed to love it. You live in Oregon, after all, where the wild outside is as spectacular and varied as it gets. BUT what if (shhhhhhh!) you’re not-so-nuts-about-nature? In light of how wildly rainy our fall has been so far, you might be excused for not going on a family hike on the weekend and allowing your kids to have extra screen time. But you’ve heard the statistics. Spending time outside is supposed to make you (and your kids) happier, healthier, and even wealthier (think gas money saved when you ride your bikes). So what’s a conscientious, but not hankering-to-to-hiking parent or caregiver to do? To start with, don’t beat yourself up! Not EVERYONE in Oregon has to be a nature nerd. It’s okay if you don’t want to be buddies with bugs and would rather read a book about hiking than actually set foot on a trail. There are ways, however, that you can help your kids connect with nature that don’t involve you hanging out with creepy-crawlies or trekking for miles. First, think about your friends and family. Without a doubt, there’s someone in that group who loves to spend time outside – fishing, hiking, biking, climbing, bird watching, running, gardening – there are all sorts of possibilities. And at least one of those folks also loves your children! Invite someone to share

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9 • O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M

their outdoor passions with your kiddos. Nature adventuring with children can actually be a real treat for folks who don’t have kids of their own – or whose young ones are all grown up. Alternatively, offer another family whose kids you like to spend time with a trade – you take my kids for a hike and I’ll have yours over to make pizza. Next, remember there are a myriad of ways to learn about and appreciate nature, and not all involve going outdoors. Why not start with a visit to the University of Oregon’s Museum of Natural and Cultural History (mnch.uoregon. edu)? First Fridays are free, second Saturdays are for families, and third Fridays feature Little Wonders pre-school stories. Check out their cool Explore Oregon exhibit for sure. The Eugene Science Center (eugenesciencecenter. org) can also provide indoor entertainment and sponsors monthly Tot Discovery Days and early STEM story times. Their current exhibit Sun, Earth, Universe and their ongoing Discovery Room cover lots of interesting natural ground. The Adventure Children’s Museum (adventurechildrensmuseum.org) in Valley River Center is another fun place to visit, and provides a variety of opportunities for imaginative nature play, including a Pacific Naorthwest camping playspace and a pretend beekeeping exhibit. (Interestingly, all three of these museums are close to nearby natural areas. The MNCH has a courtyard that features native plants, the

by Beth Stein

Science Center is in Alton Baker Park, and the Valley River Center is right on the Willamette River…just in case you decide to venture outside for a breath of fresh air!) Beyond museums, don’t forget public libraries. Books and movies about nature can inspire kids (and maybe even you?) to explore the real world outside. Finally, remember there are actually plenty of ways to spend family time outside without committing to an all-day endeavor or a long, wet trek in the mud. A visit to the Cascades Raptor Center (cascadesraptorcenter.org), with its live eagles, owls, and other birds-of-prey can be a fun, short adventure, requiring minimal walking and providing lots of wildlife bang for the buck. For outdoor exploring with the five-and-under crowd, try a Nearby Nature Green Start Play Day (nearbynature.org). At these morning events, every second Tuesday of the month, kids and their caregivers get a gentle intro to spending time outside, with simple games and hands-on activities in the Learnscape Outdoor Classroom. Nearby Nature’s Haunted Hike in October, featuring a pumpkin-lit walk through the park and costumed critters from nature nearby, is also a short term outdoor commitment, and provides an evening of learning about local animals. Finally, mark your calendars for Play in the Rain Day on November 9th, an awesome free event sponsored by the Youth in Nature Partnership (youthinnature.org) that offers a day of easy-to-access outdoor fun for kids of all ages at Mount Pisgah Arboretum. So yes, even if you’re not-so-nuts-about-nature, you can find ways to connect your kids with the wild outside and make sure they enjoy the healthy benefits of spending time outdoors. And you never know, if you take it step-by-step, one of these days you might just find your feet on that hiking trail after all, and discover that nature’s actually kinda cool! Beth Stein is the Executive Director of Nearby Nature, a non-profit education group dedicated to fostering appreciation of nature nearby and providing tools for ecological living. The organization hosts summer daycamps in local parks as well as school programs, special events, and restoration projects. For more information, call 541-687-9699 or see nearbynature.org.

Must-Have Parenting Phone Apps by Kimberly Blaker

hether you need a solution to help monitor your baby, track and reward your kiddos for chores, or keep your teen from texting while driving, there’s a phone app for that! The following apps are designed specifically for parents and families. Better yet, most of these parent-tested apps are FREE for both Android and iPhone! Screen Time Parental Control. Android & iPhone. Free trial. This useful app gives parents a variety of controls to limit their kids’ screen time. It also allows parents to block apps and games from their kids at bedtime or during school hours. Parents can even push a button on their own phone to time-out their kids’ phones when they ignore requests to get off their phone. MMGuardian. Android & iPhone. Free. This pre-teen and teen monitoring app allows parents to monitor and block text messages, apps, calls, and URLs. It also has configurations to limit screen time. Cozi Family Organizer. Android & iPhone. Free or paid upgrade. Manage and share your family calendar between all of your devices with this app to keep everyone in the loop. In addition to keeping track of schedules, it manages reminders, to-do lists, shopping lists, and recipes. Netspark Parental Control Light. Android. Paid subscription. Get powerful filtering with this app to protect your kids from harmful images, text, and video content. It also allows parents to set time limits for daily or weekly screen time. ToddlyTic. Android & iPhone. Free 30-day trial. This app is an excellent way to communicate with your child’s daycare or teachers. It helps you stay on top of your child’s attendance, grades, and more. You can also use the app to manage and make tuition payments to your child’s school. Life360 Family Locator – GPS Tracker. Android & iPhone.

Free. With this app, you can create “circles” of family members and friends. Then you can view the location of anyone in your circle on a map. The tracker can also send you text alerts when your child or teen arrives at or leaves a destination. KidsPlace Parental Control by Kiddoware. Android. Free or paid upgrade. Block kids from buying or downloading apps and incoming calls with this app. Premium features include a timer that locks apps after a specified period or based on a permanent schedule. ChoreMonster. Android & iPhone. Free. This app is a great way to gain kids’ cooperation with chores. Kids can keep track of the points they earn for completing tasks. Then they can use the points to buy rewards such as extra time for video games, a special treat, or family outing. DriveSafe.ly. Android. Free or paid upgrade. If you have teen drivers, this app is a must-have. It reads text messages and emails aloud and announces the name of incoming callers without having to touch the phone. The paid version allows for a hands-free response to messages as well. Baby Monitor 3G. Android & iPhone. $3.99. Monitor your baby with both video and audio, and receive alerts when your baby awakens. Particularly helpful, you can see your baby in the dark with this app. It also tracks how often your baby wakes, and it replays audio. You can also press a button on your phone to talk to your baby. Wheel of Chores. Android & iPhone. Free. This app adds fun and excitement to chores. Kids can spin the wheel for a task and earn points toward rewards. At the end of the week, parents can distribute the money or prizes, or kids can bank their points to save up. Kimberly Blaker is a freelance parenting and lifestyle writer. She also writes content, blog posts, and more for businesses in a variety of industries and is an expert in on-page SEO. Find her at kimberlyblaker.com

O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

Movie Time by Bonnie L. Harris

Good Guy Heart Roadside Attraction Rated: PG-13 Now in theatres

lthough the title, The Peanut Butter Falcon, suggests a children’s film, the new indie feature directed by Tyler Nilson is better suited for teens and parents looking for a unique movie experience. It’s akin to Huckleberry Finn meets Rain Man set in the sparsely populated outer banks of North Carolina. Times are hard, money’s tight, and the characters’ gritty lives intersect with the endless beauty

Tyler & Zak become brothers.

of the land and sea. Add to that moments of quirky hilarity and dire suspense that give the film a wonderful narrative rhythm. Just when the stor y seems predictable, Nilson finds another surprising bend in the river that takes everything in a new direction. And something new is exactly what Zak, a 22-year-old Down Syndrome person, wants when he escapes from his residential facility. His dream of becoming a professional wrestler is complicated by his lack of money and zero world experience. Zak is befriended by

Tyler, an errant crab fisherman, who’s on the run from some nasty hoodlums. They’re an unlikely duo, but Tyler finally agrees to

help when he realizes Zak can be a cover for his own escape to Florida. Friendship turns into brotherhood as the two bond over wrestler training, being a good guy, and surviving the elements. Just when they think they’re in the clear, Eleanor,

FOR THE PARENTS To The Stars Ad Astra 20th Century Fox Studios, Rated: PG-13 Now in theatres

lready touted as a sci-fi classic, Ad Astra, starring Brad Pitt is an expensive, thoughtprovoking journey into why humans are compelled to explore space. It’s a cinematic endeavor worthy of a film scholar, and many professors will have this movie on their agendas. But as enjoyable entertainment goes, Ad Astra misses the landing pad. Not that all space films should be like Star Wars, or Passengers, or Gravity, but director James Gray seems so

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9 • O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M

Zak’s caregiver, finds them and insists that Zak return home. But Tyler convinces her to let Zak fulfill his dream and the threesome continue on their makeshift raft of dreams t o m e e t Z a k ’s wrestling idol, the Salt Water Redneck. Eventually, reality comes calling, and by chance the nasty hoodlums, which creates a zany third act that’s part WWE and part poetic justice. Fair warning: the language and images are sometimes rough, but the film teaches lessons of humanity and tolerance that are well worth it.

pioneer; Gray made a movie about pioneers and that’s as close as he gets. His Major Roy McBride, intent on visually copying Stanley Kubrick, ala a hard-core astronaut and son of a famous 2001: A Space Odyssey, that he foregoes a good explorer, is so coldly confident that his nearstory and believable characters. Kubrick was a death experiences become mundane. When he’s called upon to travel to Neptune to find his estranged father, he accidentally kills his entire crew, oops!, and must continue alone. McBride’s sins don’t bother him as much as the deep space sickness, and reuniting with his father is sadly anti-climactic. He saves the universe without getting his hands dirty, and returns to Earth in record time to Heading for get the girl. It’s a classic ending Neptune. without a movie to support it.

Experienced tutors here to help students of all ages with any subject!

Now Enrolling for Fall! New clients, mention this ad and receive a $20 account credit when scheduling your first three appointments!

Aim for character, citizenship, and fitness

Offer applies to new clients scheduling during the month of October, 2019.

For boys and girls K-5. Begin your adventure today!

otcbsa.org/join 541-485-4433

CHEER CLASSES

Choose from

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED SOUTH EUGENE & UO 30 W. 29th Ave (at Willamette)

541-484-7272

The Works OR The Meats

Large for only $12!

N. EUGENE/FERRY ST BRIDGE 54 Division (just off River Rd)

541-461-7272 Order online at papajohns.com Open Lunch & Late Night

Age groups: 6-8 & 9-13 Girls and Boys Stunts • Tumbling • Jumps • Dance Call us for more info! 541-343-4222 541-343-4222 329 West 3rd Avenue www.bouncegymnastics.com

Is it recyclable?

Coupon required. Not to be combined with other Coupons or Discounts. Delivery Fee extra. Expires 10/31/19.

Ask about our Jack-O-Lantern Pizza for only $11

Ask the Garbage Guru

www.lanecounty.org/garbageguru

If in doubt, ﬁnd out . . .or leave it out!

G A R B AG E

O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

A Dad’s Eye View Humor by Rick Epstein

Costumes Can Be Revealing B

esides the usual trick-or-treating, our town has a Halloween parade every year. The high school marching band leads the costumed children downtown, and then the kids break off and file past the judges’ stand. When my daughter Marie was about 7, she browsed through a book of sewing patterns, picked out a fairy costume, and Grandma made it for her. Pale blue and pink, it sparkled with silver sequins and trailed gauzy wisps. That year Marie lined up right behind the band and whirled and danced along after them in a world of her own. When the parade hit the T-intersection of Main Street, the marching band turned right to board its bus, and the costumed kids went left for the judging – all except for Marie. She had followed the marching band, never noticing she was capering alone until the band broke formation. Waking from her trance, she looked around wondering where everybody went. It’s no accident that Marie wanted to be a fairy. She was a dreamy child, who was always suggesting, “Let’s pretend we’re bears” – or gnomes or babies or reindeer. She could spend an hour lying on the floor playing her own games of make-believe entirely inside her own head. The Halloween identities kids pick tell a lot about them. So do kids’ problems with costumes that someone else chose for them. I would love to talk to a therapist about it. *** “Well, Doc, when I was 6 my mom dressed me like a clown.” “Mr. Epstein, lots of children question their parents’ fashion sense. It’s part of the individuation process that begins at age 2.”

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9 • O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M

“No, she put me into an actual clown suit – yellow and blue with woolly pompom buttons down the front. I’ve always been committed to comedy, but even then I thought clowns were just trying too hard. And in that garish suit, my usual schtick seemed forced and desperate. I blushed with shame, but no one saw because Mom had painted my face.” “What did you WANT to dress up as?” “A cowboy! And when I was 7, my mom made me a wonderful Western-style shirt with pearly snaps, and she bought me boots and a big white hat. But she was a pacifist and wouldn’t let me have a toy six-shooter.” “And how did that make you feel, Mr. Epstein?” “Inadequate, Doctor.” “Now we’re getting somewhere. What other costumes did your mother put you into?” “I remember a red suit with a pointed tail.” “Your mother dressed you up as The Devil!?” “I guess so, but we just thought of it as A devil, not THE devil. We were Unitarians and, never mind Satan, we just barely had God.” “Tell me more.” “At age 9, my mom dressed me as a girl for the Cub Scout Halloween costume contest. I wore a beret, a skirt and a blouse. There were so many ‘girls’ we had our own category. The winner was a kid named Alan. He was slathered with makeup, dripping with jewelry and wearing a fake bosom, the little hussy. I could have scratched his eyes out. Still, I took second prize – a package of little metal cars. My brother said they should’ve given me a baby doll. Dad just looked away, but Mom said I was a knockout. You see, she had always wanted a daughter she could fuss over and dress up. She said my peaches-and-cream complexion was wasted on a boy—.” The chiming clock interrupted me, and the psychiatrist said, “Wow, your hour is up already! Time certainly flies when we talk about mothers, doesn’t it? See you next week.” *** See what a rich vein of psychological ore lies awaiting the therapeutic pick and shovel? It’s been decades since I dressed up for Halloween, but Marie still does. Want to know what she’s like at age 23? She’s too old for the Halloween parade, but last year she went to a costume party dressed as an oil spill. She wore a black trash bag that had her old Beanie Baby penguins and seals stuck to it. Marie is still imaginative, but she has come down to planet Earth – and is not 100% happy about it. Rick Epstein can be reached at rickepstein@yahoo.com. But take it easy; he’s feeling a bit frail just now.

Enter the Women’s Care

Halloween Costume Contest!

prize categories: 3Women, Family, Baby Post your photos on the Women’s Care Facebook or Instagram. @womenscareobgyn @womenscareoregon

#WCHalloween19 Women’s Care at Country Club: (541) 686-2922 Women’s Care at Riverbend: (541) 868-9700

Meet Lisa. PeaceHealth nurse leader. Breast cancer survivor. Mountain climber.

Through early detection and the right team, today she’s climbing mountains and living life to the fullest. At PeaceHealth, we challenge you to put yourself first and make time for a mammogram... you’re worth it!

WomensCare.com

Request your appointment today at PeaceHealth locations in Florence and Cottage Grove or with our partners in care Oregon

Watch Lisa’s story and schedule

Imaging Centers in

your mammogram today.

peacehealth.org/yes-mammo

Springfield and Eugene.

O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M • O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

Rescue Spotlight

eet Hank! He’s got the biggest smiles and loves to snuggle. He is looking for an active family that will take him on daily walks. He LOVES to go on walks and would make the perfect outdoor companion! After a day of exploring outside, he enjoys coming home and relaxing on the couch. Volunteers said “Hank is a very sweet, well behaved boy! He is great with his commands.” Hank is a 7 year old Australian cattle dog mix and weighs 52 pounds. He does well with other pups on play dates but would prefer to be the only dog in the home. He does well with kids as long as they are respectful of his space. If you’re looking for your walking companion and cuddle bud, come meet Hank! If you are interested in adopting a dog, or would like to learn more about adding a dog to your family, please visit Greenhill Humane Society. Greenhill Humane Society is open for adoptions seven days a week, 11 am – 6 pm at 88530 Green Hill Rd in Eugene. For more information call (541) 689.1503 or visit www.green-hill.org.

he Cat Rescue & A d o p t i o n Ne t wo r k presents Brenda, a sweet and talkative 5-month-old, mostly gray dilute-calico female kitten with white fur in a tuxedo pattern. She loves people of all ages, is extremely playful, and is the first to explore new nooks and crannies in her home. This cuddly and affectionate girl has tested positive for the feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), but both of her brothers have tested negative, so she may well delete the virus in the next 6 months. Even if she remains FIV+, by keeping her indoors, she will likely live a healthy, normal lifespan. FIV cannot be passed to humans or dogs, and only to other cats through a deep bite wound. While safest as an only kitty, she would be fine with another friendly, nonaggressive cat Brenda is spayed, up to date on vaccinations, microchipped, has been defleaed and dewormed, and is negative for Felv. Her special adoption fee is $60, which allows us to continue to provide care for other kittens and cats in need. To meet Brenda, please call 541-225-4955 option 1 or send an email to adoptinfo@CatRescues.org

FREE Compost Demonstrations Saturdays 10am-12pm October 12 GrassRoots Garden 1465 Coburg Rd, Eugene

October 19 Santa Clara Community Garden 4110 River Rd., Eugene

Grows Great Gardens!

For directions or more information about composting and gardening contact the OSU Extension - Lane County Master Gardener Plant Clinic: 996 Jefferson Street, Eugene • (541) 344-0265 http://extension.oregonstate.edu/lane

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9 • O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M

October 26 OSU Extension Service 996 Jefferson St. Eugene

November 2 BRING Recycling

4446 Franklin Blvd, Sprgfld

O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M â&#x20AC;¢ O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9

3D Mammography. at Oregon Imaging Centers

Fewer false alarms. Greater accuracy. Earlier detection.

It’s your

ChOICe! Choose Oregon Imaging for your imaging needs.

Call Today! Evening and Weekend Appointments Available oregonimaging.com · 541.334.7555 University District | RiverBend Pavilion 28

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 9 • O R E G O N F A M I L Y. C O M