Our Contributors
1. ELAINE BLATT
Elaine brings over 20 years of expertise in designing and implementing impactful environmental and energy efficiency programs across the U.S. and Asia. At DEQ, she has been a driving force behind a research-based food waste campaign, developing compelling messaging and resources to inspire Oregonians to waste less food and make a lasting impact.
2. BONNIE HARRIS
Bonnie is Oregon Family Magazine’s resident Movie Review Master Extraordinaire. She enjoys watching movies of all kinds, and has been doing movie reviews for over 9 years and counting. She lives in Eugene with her family, enjoys gardening and cooking.
3. DANIEL HIESTAND
Daniel Hiestand is Waste Wise Lane County’s Outreach Coordinator, promoting waste reduction and sustainability throughout the county. He recently graduated from Arizona State University with a Master’s in Sustainability Leadership.
4. KELLCIE MULLANEY
Kellcie is the Program Communications Specialist at FOOD For Lane County. She is passionate about connecting the people to vital resources, like food and education. She enjoys volunteering and being involved in her community. Outside of work, she can be found cheering on the Ducks, usually with an iced coffee in hand.
5. SANDI SCHWARTZ
Sandi Schwartz is an author, journalist, and mother of two. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness, and environmental issues. Her new book, Finding Ecohappiness: Fun Nature Activities to Help Your Kids Feel Happier and Calmer, comes out in the spring. Learn more at www.ecohappinessproject.com.
6. RODDY SCHEER
Journalist and photographer specializing in environmental issues, the outdoors and travel. When he is not out in the field taking pictures, Roddy runs EarthTalk, the non-profit Publisher of the syndicated EarthTalk Q&A column and the EarthTalk.org and Emagazine 1 3 2 4 5
Oregon Family Magazine is distributed monthly in the greater Lane County area at over 150 high-traffic commercial locations.
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Opinions expressed by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily the opinions of, nor an endorsement by this publication. © 2025 Pacific Parents Publishing. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without prior expressed written consent from Pacific Parents Publishing.
Make a Smart Home Investment with All-Climate Heat Pumps
IfYOUR HOME USES A
conventional heating and cooling system, you may wonder if there’s a better way to manage indoor comfort. With rising energy costs and concerns about the efficiency of conventional systems, many homeowners are exploring alternatives. One popular solution is an all-climate heat pump.
All-climate heat pumps are the next generation of heat pump technology, built for peak performance, regardless of outdoor temperature. From the personalized comfort all-climate heat pumps deliver, to the energy savings almost immediately realized, more homeowners are looking closely at making a change, or going all-in on all-climate systems.
If you’re considering replacing or upgrading your current HVAC system, here are some key benefits to consider.
PERSONALIZED COMFORT
Ductless, multi-zone, all-climate heat pump systems are designed to deliver personalized, room-to-room temperature control tailored to your individual preferences. Unlike traditional ducted unitary systems, which typically operate on an all-or-nothing basis, ductless multi-zone solutions provide individualized climate settings for each space. Whether you prefer a warmer living room or a cooler bedroom, you have the flexibility to adjust each zone, which offers both convenience and energy efficiency.
EFFICIENCY
According to a survey of U.S. homeowners conducted by Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS), 93% of homeowners surveyed with conventional HVAC systems reported concerns about utility costs. Of those surveyed, seventy-five percent also consider energy efficiency when considering home improvements.
Conventional heating and cooling systems run at full capacity to reach a desired set point, and then shut off. This start-stop
action ultimately uses more energy. With variable-capacity capability and inverterdriven technology, all-climate heat pumps can adjust and maintain temperatures, lessening your home’s overall energy demand and driving down cost.
COST SAVINGS
The cost savings provided by efficient energy usage are evident, and many states offer rebates for new HVAC systems, with contractors offer financing options making the upfront cost of an all-climate heat pump installation more affordable.
Reliability is another consistent cost-saving factor. All-climate heat pumps are purposebuilt and driven, with materials designed to perform well in all kinds of weather.
“We continue to educate homeowners about the advantages all-climate heat pumps have over conventional HVAC systems,” said Mark Kuntz, Chief Executive Officer, METUS. “As homeowners become more knowledgeable about the benefits, including personalized comfort, energy efficiency and cost savings, we expect they will increasingly install these systems in their homes.” ✦
To learn more about how you can better manage your home’s indoor comfort with all-climate heat pump technology visit mitsubishicomfort.com
CHOOSING A Landscape Designer
SANDI SCHWARTZ
WELL-DESIGNED AND THOUGHT-OUT
landscape not only enhances relaxation and provides the perfect spot for family bonding time, but it also boosts curb appeal and property value of a home. However, it’s easy to quickly become overwhelmed by all the minutia and choices involved with landscaping, so it’s a good idea to hire a professional landscape designer to be your guide.
The best landscape design companies offer design, installation, and maintenance services to make your life so much easier. They can help turn your vision into the perfect outdoor oasis for your family. With so many considerations like cost, local climate, soil conditions, plant choices, sun exposure, and irrigation—not to mention safety of your children and pets—it’s critical that you find the best pro to fit your needs. The following considerations will help you when choosing and working with a landscape designer.
INCLUDE ENOUGH OPEN SPACE FOR PLAY
Nature connection is incredibly beneficial to children’s health and happiness, so ensuring there are enough play areas and open space for them to run around should be top priority when designing a kid-friendly yard. According to Allison Messner, founder and CEO of Yardzen, an online landscape design service, kids’ play space is one of the top design requests made by their clients. Messner encourages parents to leave room for play in the design to build something unique for their children. “When working with your designer, ask how you can incorporate organic materials into the play area to integrate into the overall design. Hills make perfect backdrops for integrating slides, and steps to a treehouse can become a rock-climbing wall as the kids grow.” Other ideas to encourage play include a swing set, treehouse, water table, tree swing, sand box, playhouse, and a sport zone.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT PLANTS
Be mindful that not all plants are safe for children and pets. Indeed, there are poisonous berries and plants and those with sharp edges, thorns, stinging leaves, and spikes that could be harmful if touched or consumed. There are also plants that could trigger an allergic reaction. Ask your landscape designer about these concerns so they can plan out the best vegetation for your yard. Some species to avoid include oleander, foxglove, holly, barberries, angel trumpet, and roses.
AVOID HARDSCAPE DANGERS
Work with your landscape designer to choose safe yet attractive hardscape features like rocks, pebbles, boulders, and pavers. “Parents of young children should ask their designer about safety considerations such as surfaces and pathways that are child-friendly,” suggests Kathy Jentz, editor of Washington Gardener Magazine and host of the GardenDC podcast. She recommends a grade of shredded wood chips called “playground mulch.” Be sure to speak with the designer about the safety aspects of each hardscape option and the best places for them to be installed.
MAKE FOOD FUN
Incorporating a vegetable garden to plant produce, such as an accessible one with a raised bed, can be a real winner for kids. They will love planting seeds, digging in the dirt, watering, and ultimately tasting what they helped grow. “A small vegetable and herb garden can be put in for families to grow food together,” notes Jentz. “Kids tend to eat more healthy foods when they are part of the growing process.” She also suggests talking to the landscape designer about adding some fruit-bearing trees to harvest from for many years to come.
ATTRACT WILDLIFE
Children love animals, so be sure to explore ways to attract wildlife to your yard. The landscape designer may have creative ideas to help your kids engage more with animals, such as incorporating a butterfly garden, koi pond, or birdfeeders into the landscape plan. Additionally, look for native plants that appeal to favorites like hummingbirds and butterflies.
FENCE THEM IN
Safety should always come first, which includes building a fence around the yard as part of the landscaping plan. If you have a pool, there needs to be a childproof fence surrounding it. Before committing to any water feature, such as a pond or fountain, talk to your landscape designer about the pros and cons and safety protocols available.
BALANCE YOUR BUDGET
Finally, each landscaping project comes with a price tag that varies depending on size and complexity. Typical landscape design fees end up being thousands of dollars, with hourly rates generally ranging from $50 to $150 and design plans costing anywhere from $300 to $15,000. Plus, materials and labor fees can quickly add up. Determine a realistic budget and work with the designer to stay within your cost goals.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Your dream landscape is just around the corner by following these guidelines and asking the right questions. To ensure a positive working relationship with your landscape designer, Jentz also suggests the following: “When seeking a landscape designer, parents can ask for referrals from other parents and also ask designers to show them past projects working with families.” Finally, think about getting the kids involved in the process of making this a family project. “Children can be brought into the design process and asked about their interests— perhaps they’d like a faerie (miniature) garden or one that attracts pollinators,” said Jentz. ✦
A Springtime! Booking early
where I live, should I use a surge protector for my garage door opener?
AYes! We sell the correct surge protector for your operator! This can prevent surges of power from damaging the circuit board.
QI’ve been thinking of installing a fence for privacy and to keeping my pets from wandering off. When is the best time, and do they have a warranty?
ANOW! Spring is a great time as it gives you more time to enjoy it and warmer temps allow stains to set. All fences include a 1-year warranty or longer for some styles. Styles include custom cedar, highend galvanized steel, and more. We do RV and custom gates too!
Paul Burrell
Niko Babauta
Improve Your Home’s Look with Wallpaper To
UNDERSTAND THE MOOD of a room, look no further than its walls. Wallpaper can add instant texture and flair, and today’s DIY-friendly options make it easy to create inspired spaces with little fuss.
The key to successful wallpapering is in the preparation. Clean, dry walls are a must, and any holes or cracks should be filled and sanded. To avoid paste that absorbs into porous surfaces, take time to apply a light, even coat of primer before beginning.
Choose a corner or space behind a door as your starting point. Mark your starting point using a level to draw a vertical line from floor to ceiling. Next, cut a length of wallpaper
several inches longer than the height of your wall from the baseboard to ceiling. Apply paste or activate the adhesive according to the manufacturer’s directions. Be sure to fully cover or dampen the paper surface; dry spots may result in unsightly bubbles.
Begin smoothing the paper onto the wall using the vertical line as a guide. Begin at the ceiling and smooth using a brush or plastic
smoothing tool. If you encounter wrinkles or bubbles, gently lift the paper and smooth, relaying the paper as you go.
With each strip, you should end with several inches above the ceiling joint and below the baseboard line. Ensure the paper has firmly adhered top to bottom then trim using a sharp blade. Smooth each seam as you go.
Continue this process around the room, aligning your paper pattern as needed. If it isn’t possible to completely match the pattern, focus on the middle third of the wall, which is most likely to be at eye level.
To maneuver corners, cut a slit in the paper overhanging the ceiling and floor. This allows the paper to lay flat for a smoother finish.
When you round back to your starting point, overlap your original strip of paper with the final strip. Make a single cut for a clean, crisp seam. Gently wipe away excess adhesive from the trim and seams.
To prevent rips and ripples, allow paper to dry completely – at least overnight – before replacing furniture and hanging artwork to complete your space. ✦ Find
DEAR EARTHTALK
Are mainstream dish soaps really that bad for the planet? And if so, what are some greener alternatives?
— P. MCGRATH, BOULDER, CO
POPULAR DISH
soaps often claim to easily tackle grease, leave dishes sparkling clean and uphold commitments to sustainability and safety. But these promises are often misleading. These products may deliver on cleaning power, but they often come at a high cost to human health, animal welfare and the environment. Many wellknown dish soaps contain synthetic chemicals and additives that are harmful.
The main chemicals in dish soaps include Methylisothiazolinone, 4-dioxane, and fragrance and dye additives.
Methylisothiazolinone is a synthetic preservative which inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi, helping to give sponges a long useful life. The chemical is also a skin irritant for many and highly toxic in aquatic environments. 4-dioxane, though not intentionally added into dish soaps, is the byproduct of other chemical reactions. As a recognized groundwater pollutant, 4-dioxane is notoriously difficult to filter out during water treatment.
The lemony-fresh scent many associate with cleanliness comes from synthetic fragrances, which
levels of harmful chemicals, worsening climate change and exposing local populations to
harmful chemical, and received an “A” environmental rating.
Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Liquid Soap, generally known as a camping dish soap, is another grade “A” certified soap with strong Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles guiding production. It uses basic ingredients, designed to be safe in waterways. Koala EcoNatural Dish Soap is made without synthetic fragrances, using essential oils instead, and holds two toxic chemical-free certifications. These alternatives are available at a slightly higher price point, but are much worth the investment. ✦
act as air and aquatic pollutants. Dyes, which create visual appeal, are persistent pollutants that can linger in the environment for decades, contaminating waterways.
The environmental harm of dish soap extends beyond usage to its production. The industry ranks as the fourth-largest contributor to toxic pollution, with weighty impacts on communities near production facilities. The factories emit high
increased cancer risks. The toxic footprint also extends along transportation routes, especially from South Carolina through Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas.
Luckily, there are several options that are better for the environment and individual health. Cleancult Liquid Dish Soap is made from plant bases and does not use animal testing. It cleans efficiently, is easy on sensitive skin, does not contain
CONTACTS: The 9 Best Eco-Friendly Dish Soaps, https://www.treehugger.com/ best-eco-friendly-dish-soap-5115036; Dish Soaps: The Good, The Bad, and The Toxic, https://www.practiganic.com/2014/05/ dish-soaps-good-bad-and-toxic.html; The Dirty Secret of America’s Clean Dishes, https://www.propublica.org/article/thedirty-secret-of-americas-clean-dishes/amp
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
Many well-known dish soaps contain synthetic chemicals and additives that are harmful.
Earth Day Celebration
RETURNS TO LANE COUNTY
BY DANIEL HIESTAND
LANE COUNTY WASTE REDUCTION OUTREACH COORDINATOR
BEEN OVER A decade since EWEB’s last Earth Day Celebration in Eugene, which brought together public agencies, nonprofits, and entertainment to help the public learn how to live more sustainably.
That event’s spirit will return with this year’s inaugural “Re-Imagine Earth Day Celebration (RIED)” on April 13 from 2-6 p.m. at the Eugene Farmers Market Pavilion.
The RIED event is “a free, family-friendly celebration and one-stop shop for learning about—in fun and engaging ways—what our local organizations, businesses, and others are doing concerning sustainability,” said
Mitra Gruwell, a local sustainability advocate spearheading the event.
Like its predecessor, the gathering will also include art, performers, games, and food for attendees.
To bring the event to life, Gruwell partnered with the Materials Exchange Center for Community Arts (MECCA), BRING, Shift Community Cycles, the city of Eugene Waste Prevention, and Waste Wise Lane County. Gruwell also received a grant from the Eugene Downtown Program Fund Grant and funding from the Lane Council of Governments.
Gruwell said RIED was inspired by her experiences with the Eugene Pride Festival
and her attendance at the Association of Oregon Recyclers (AOR) conference.
“We hope to channel the Pride Festival atmosphere, where everybody feels welcome to celebrate, engage, and discover,” Gruwell said. “The AOR conference is an inspiration because it’s where those in the sustainability sector get together to learn about what we’re all doing.”
Emily Reynolds, director of education and outreach with BRING, said RIED isn’t just about awareness—it’s about action.
“We encourage attendees to engage with hands-on activities, ask questions, and connect with local sustainability leaders,” Reynolds said.
While the event is technically not on Earth Day (April 22), Gruwell said the event’s aim is to help people live more sustainably every day, not just on Earth Day.
“First and foremost, we hope people have a blast,” Gruwell said. “Folks can come with their families and friends and have a memorable experience shopping for sustainable services and locally made products, eating from local food carts while using reusable dishware, and learning through play about all the cool things our local organizations are doing.” ✦
Learn more at wastewiselane.org/earth
Mitra Gruwell
Fresh SAVE MONEY (AND REDUCE WASTE) BY KEEPING YOUR VEGGIES
BY ELAINE BLATT
SENIOR POLICY AND PROGRAM ANALYST, OREGON
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
PRING HAS SPRUNG, AND SO HAVE LOCAL veggies! You can see (and smell) them everywhere — from farmers’ markets, to produce stands, to grocery store shelves — an abundance of fresh, vibrant, tasty veggies to brighten up your meals. But don’t let your produce go to waste! With a few simple tips, you can keep spring veggies fresh longer, reduce food waste, and save money.
Spoiled food costs the average Oregon household over $1,600 a year. That’s a big number! The good news is, it’s easier than ever to avoid food waste and keep that money in your pocket. Here’s to fresher food, happier eaters, and fatter wallets this Spring!
When it comes to enjoying a fresh harvest longer, these tips and tricks can help make the freshness last.
Storage: Spring specialties are happiest in the refrigerator. Some prefer a little moisture like being wrapped in a paper towel, but air flow is key to freshness, as opposed to locking them away in airtight containers. If the veggies are in bags, a perforated bag works best.
Don’t Get Lost in the Refrigerator: Spring specialties like to be cool, but not cold. The best to extend freshness ranges range between 32 to 40°F. Keep them up front, or in the crisper drawer of the fridge where they are most visible and where temps range between 32 to 40°F. And remember to enjoy them before they wilt.
Freeze for later: When we find a good deal or have more than we can use or keep fresh for the week, it’s often easier to freeze and enjoy later; taking a bit of time to prep will avoid freezer burns is advisable.
Here’s an easy guide for keeping Spring favorites:
Asparagus: One of the first vegetables of Spring. Farmers cut young stalks when they reach six to ten inches above the soil line, and rush the tender green shoots to our tables. Asparagus will keep 10 days to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
Beans (snap): Keep in a perforated produce bag in the refrigerator for about a week.
Broccoli and Cauliflower: Store in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks, and avoid washing before storing.
Cabbage: Store in the refrigerator in the produce drawer for up to 4-5 months.
Radish: Store in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to a month.
Lettuce and other leafy greens: Store unwashed in the refrigerator for 3-7 days, depending on the type.
Mushrooms: Store in a paper bag to absorb excess moisture.
Potatoes, Onions, and Garlic: Store in a cool, dark, and dry place, not in the refrigerator.
Tomatoes: Store at room temperature until ripe, then refrigerate to slow down ripening.
HELPING THE ENVIRONMENT
GREENS
As weather turns warmer, salads and lighter foods may be on the menu. Here’s a few tricks to keep our greens from turning limp and mushy:
• Keep greens dry – Washed or unwashed, wrap them loosely in dry paper or cloth towel to absorb the moisture that rots them quickly.
• Keep them cold, but not too cold – Store in the crisper drawer or on shelf towards the front of the fridge.
• Give them air and space – Place wrapped greens directly in the fridge or in a covered, but unsealed container, or perforated bags that let air flow. Keep them away from other fruits that produce ethylene gas and accelerate rotting, such as apples, peaches, and pears. ✦
Food waste contributes significantly to climate change, accounting for an estimated 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. This is due to the methane gas released when food decomposes in landfills, as well as the resources used to produce, transport, and store food that is later wasted. Globally, an estimated 1 billion tons of food is wasted annually. So much, that if food waste were a country, it would be the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases. Reducing food waste is an important step in mitigating climate change. Individuals can make a difference by reducing food waste in their homes. Composting at home diverts this organic waste, preventing methane emissions. Compost enriches soil with nutrients and organic matter, improving its ability to retain water and nutrients, and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Governments and businesses can also play a role in reducing food waste through policy changes and infrastructure improvements. The Department of Environmental Quality’s (DEQ) handy food spoilage chart is a great go-to guide for keeping food fresher, longer. It highlights which foods are most likely to spoil first and provides simple, practical tips to help you reduce waste and save money.
541-343-5100 www.emfc.org
EMFC Girls Explore Soccer PGM
6 sessions | April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12
6:15-7:45pm @ Willamette HS
EMFC Junior Academy Placement
Boys & Girls born in 2018, 2017 and 2016 May 20-21 @ LCC
EMFC U11-19 Tryouts
Boys & Girls born 2015-2007 | May 15-19 @ LCC
EMFC Girls Camp 2025
Girls age 6-15 | May 31, 9am-3pm @ LCC
CAMPS at a GLANCE
Big Lake Youth Camp https://biglake.org/
Camp Harlow https://campharlow.com/ 541-683-5416
Code Ninja Summer Camps https://www.codeninjas.com/or-eugene/camps 541-933-5386
Eugene Ballet Summer Camps https://www.eugeneballet.org/ 541-485-3992
Eugene Metro Futbol Club https://www.emfc.org/ 541-343-5100
Movie Night
Finding His Way Home
BY BONNIE L. HARRIS
FOR ME, THE JURY IS still out on the merits of photorealistic animation, but the artistic quality of Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King is still quite remarkable. The uncanny valley that happens with androids definitely influences how I view the photorealism of these animal characters. But the future is here,
MUFASA: THE LION KING
Walt Disney Studios Rated: PG Streaming on Amazon
and great animation is all about new trends and experiments. That said, Mufasa: The Lion King isn’t an experiment, but rather an origin story that runs nearly two full hours to explain the events behind The Lion King 1994. As with most prequels, the narrative does somersaults to introduce and tie in all the familiar characters, which can be somewhat exhausting when all we really want to know is how an orphaned lion cub ends up at Pride Rock as an adult to defend his father’s territory. Along the way, Mufasa and his adoptive brother, Taka, must overcome
their personal phobias and issues such as cowardice, prejudice, betrayal, and forgiveness. It’s a dual story with the Mufasa flashbacks interrupted by the present-day story of cub Kiara waiting for her parents’ return during a rainstorm. But Rafiki, our mandrill storyteller, quickly rejoins the adventure of Mufasa and Taka outrunning a band of white Outsider lions seeking revenge and conquest. Unfortunately, the soundtrack can’t rival the original Lion
FOR the PARENTS
No Girls Allowed
THE FIRE INSIDE
Amazon / MGM Studios, Rated: PG-13 Streaming on Amazon
IT WAS A long road with a title change before the indie film, The Fire Inside, finally debuted in theatres. But pitted against newly released Oscar contenders, it never had a shot at success. Despite what happened at the box office, The Fire Inside has come out swinging on Amazon Prime just like its hero, two-time Olympic boxing champion, Claressa Shields. Directed by Rachel Morrison and based on a true story, this is a film that’ll grab you from the first scene of 11-year-old Claressa being told that girls can’t box. And it’ll keep you cheering for the spunky, outspoken contender and her devoted Coach through the hardships of getting to the 2012 Olympics. However, Claressa never has it easy even after she wins gold. Endorsements don’t come, promoters don’t call, and she’s never on a Wheaties box like other Olympic champions. Both Claressa and her Coach are forced to reevaluate what winning gold really means
King, and few of the songs are memorable, but Disney gives it a good try. I also missed those light-hearted sight jokes and charming moments between captivating characters that might have made this film a classic. The ending wraps up both stories predictably and Kiara welcomes a new baby brother to Simba’s pride. Best to just pop some popcorn and let this movie entertain the little folks with lots of animals and music, but not much inspiration. ✦
Finally at the Olympics.
and they learn that it’s not about the money or the fame. Be sure to watch the final credits that include actual footage because girls can box, girls can earn their way to the top, and girls can be champions.
Little Mufasa and family.
From Waste to Hope
How Reducing Food Waste Can Fight Hunger
BY KELLCIE MULLANEY
EVERY DAY, PERFECTLY GOOD food is thrown away while thousands of Oregonians struggle to put food on the table. It’s a frustrating contradiction — especially when over one-third of food in the U.S. goes to waste (USDA). Food waste isn’t just about tossing leftovers or expired goods; it’s about missed opportunities to nourish families, support sustainability, and make the most of valuable resources!
At FOOD For Lane County (FFLC), reducing food waste and fighting hunger go hand in hand. Through innovative food waste and recovery programs, FFLC rescues food that would otherwise be wasted and ensures it reaches those who need it most.
Food Rescue Express (FREX), the first of its kind in the country, collects prepared meals from large kitchens, like the University of Oregon Dining Halls, before they’re discarded. Over the last decade, UO has prevented 553,480 meals from going to waste (708,455 pounds of prepared food)! These meals, which are still safe to eat, are packaged and redistributed to people facing food insecurity in the community. It’s a simple, yet powerful, way to prevent food waste and provide nutritious meals to those in need. Another initiative is Fresh Alliance. FFLC partners with local grocery stores to rescue perishables like dairy, produce, and baked goods. While these items may be past their best-by dates, they are still safe to eat. By redistributing them at meal sites and food
pantries, FFLC and local partners help families access a variety of healthy foods. In 2024, Fresh Alliance partners donated nearly 1.75 million pounds of food, totaling over 1,366,135 meals!
Efforts like these reduce food waste and contribute to a more sustainable food system. As Food Waste Prevention Week approaches, there’s no better time for individuals, families, and businesses to take small steps to reduce food waste!
To learn more about how to get involved at FOOD For Lane County, visit www.foodforlanecounty.org
In 2024, Rays in
provided 7,065 meals through their Fresh Alliance partnership.
to the community in 2024.
Over the past decade, Walmart (4 local stores), Albertsons/Safeway (12 local stores), and Market of Choice (4 local stores) have together provided over 8 million meals to individuals and families facing hunger in Lane County.
Oakridge
Junction City Grocery Outlet helped provide 24,072 meals
Natural Grocers in Eugene provided 11,538 meals with the Fresh Alliance.
Rescue Spotlight
Meet MOCHA , an incredible husky who makes a very handsome companion! This 1-year-old dog is friendly, outgoing, and affectionate. He is sweet to all he meets but is extremely loyal to the ones he loves. Mocha would thrive in a family that loves to be outside for adventures as much as he does. After a long walk or play with toys, Mocha enjoys napping on a cozy bed. He is the nicest pup who adores belly scratches and giving gentle kisses. For a husky, Mocha is pretty quiet and just a huge love. Mocha should meet any potential dogs in the shelter prior to adoption and should have a slow, supervised introduction to any cats in the home. He has energy and is still learning his manners, so he would do best with older kiddos. Mocha is neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccines prior to adoption. He weighs 54 lbs. and has a gorgeous red and white coat. We know Mocha’s friendly demeanor and perfect smile will charm his new family!
Greenhill Humane Society is open 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.
The Cat Rescue & Adoption Network presents YOGI BEAR (white with black spots) and GRIZZLY BEAR (black with a white heart), the cutest pair of bonded 10-month-old male teenagers. If you’ve been without some loving feline energy for awhile, these brothers are the perfect kitties to reintroduce you to the joys of kitty companionship! They run up to greet you just as soon as you enter the room and follow you around. They love to climb and wrestle, and then snuggle up with their people. Yogi & Grizzly are ready for their own forever home.. They have been neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and are negative for FIV & FeLV. For more info, please call 541-225-4955 option 1, or visit our website at CatRescues.org
Learning to save is a skill that lasts a lifetime.
We started the OnPoint Savers Account for children 17 and under so that kids can get a head start on learning healthy savings habits. Just open your child’s membership with a minimum of $25 and we’ll deposit an additional $55*. Plus, they’ll earn 5.00%* on the first $500. Not a bad way to start for a beginner, don’t you think?
Get started today. Visit onpointcu.com/onpoint-savers
*Rates subject to change. Stated APY (Annual Percentage Yield) is for balances up to $500; balances over $500 earn posted Regular Savings Account rate. Account must be established for members age 17 or younger by parent or guardian with a minimum $25 deposit. Parent or legal guardian must be on the membership and present to open the OnPoint Savers Account. When primary member attains the age of 18, accounts will be converted to Regular Savings Account, earning that account’s published rate at that time. Fiduciary memberships, including UTTMA and Minor Settlement Accounts are not eligible for OnPoint Savers. One OnPoint Savers Account per member/ TIN. One $55 bonus per tax ID for new members only. Bonus will be included on a 1099-INT for tax purposes. Cannot be combined with other offers for opening a new membership, such as new branch promotions or Refer a Friend. Federally insured by NCUA. 7/24
Familiar faces, expert care
Here for your health and well-being.
Ashok Venkataraman, MD
Cardiovascular Surgeon and Lane County resident
PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend peacehealth.org/familiar-faces