Oregon Family Magazine

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EARTHTALK®

Protecting the Greater Sage Grouse of the American West

A DAY JUST FOR MOM

Celebrations and Gifts She’ll Love this Mother’s Day

A DAD’S EYE VIEW

Real Life Dad’s Humor Column Mom Takes a Holiday

MAY THE FOURTH BE WITH YOU Throw a Star Wars Themed Party for Star Wars Day 12

ASK THE EXPERT Advice on How to Make Sure Your Teenagers Hear You 14

MENTAL HEALTH

Let it Go: Seven Things to Stop Worrying About — And What Parents Should Hold On To

MOVIE REVIEWS

Kung Fu Panda

One Life

College Tour Experience:

SUMMER CAMP DIRE CTORY

Ticket to Summer Fun!

FAMILY HEALTH

Better With Asthma, Wherever You Are

22 MAY RECIPES Mother’s Day Brunch Inspiration: French Toast Casserole Hearty Breakfast Burritos

RESCUE SPOTLIGHT

Neil Kitty: Wetzel

Our Contributors

1. KIMBERLY BLAKER

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online bookshop, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-of-print, scarce, signed, and first editions; fine bindings; ephemera and more at sagerarebooks.com

2. KATY M. CLARK

Katy M. Clark is a mom of two who lives in Michigan. She has a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and enjoys writing about motherhood and midlife. Her work has appeared on sites including Scary Mommy, Grown and Flown, and Your Teen for Parents. You can also find her embracing her imperfections on her blog Experienced Bad Mom.

3. RICK EPSTEIN

A Dad’s Eye View contributor, also awardwinning columnist, and journalist. Author of Rookie Dad (Hyperion) and The Right Number of Kids (McKenna Publishing Group). His wife and three daughters run a living laboratory in which he is constantly tested, analyzed, and experimented upon. It’s as if a guinea pig could write.

4. CHERIE GOUGH

Cherie Gough is a freelance writer focused on solutions-based journalism. She also works as a College Essay Coach helping young people tell their stories on college applications using their authentic voices. Bylines in HuffPost, Edible San Diego, and Eating Well. Find her at cheriegough.com and on IG @cgoughwrites.

5. 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.

6. SARAH LYONS

Sarah Lyons is a writer and proud mom of six, including six year old triplets. In her limited free time, she enjoys reading, writing, cooking, and spending time outside.

7. CHERYL MAGUIRE

Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, among other publications.

8. 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

Oregon Family Magazine is distributed monthly in the greater Lane County area at over 150 high-traffic commercial locations.

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Pacific Parents Publishing

EDITOR

Sandy Kauten

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DEAR EARTHTALK

Why is protecting the greater sage grouse such a hot button issue across the American West?

— P.L., SALT LAKE CITY, UT

THE GREATER SAGE GROUSE, best known for its unusual mating dance and bulky, turkey-like appearance, has long been an emblem of the American West. However, researchers have found that this iconic bird species is in jeopardy. The effects of climate change and habitat destruction have caused greater sage grouse populations to decline by 80 percent since 1965 and by 40 percent since 2002—and they will likely continue to decline if proactive conservation practices are not implemented to protect their habitats within the bioregion often referred to as the “sagebrush sea.”

But this issue extends well beyond protecting the greater sage grouse, as the health of sage grouse populations is a direct indication of their habitat’s health. The sagebrush sea is a critical bioregion that used to cover the vast majority of the American West, but millions of acres of sagebrush have become inaccessible to the greater sage grouse and hundreds of other native wildlife species. Large areas of sagebrush have been destroyed or fragmented for the sake of continued oil drilling, mining and other human development. The habitat has also been harmed by wildfires

and invasive grasses such as cheatgrass, which can overgrow sagebrush. The decline of these habitats has dire consequences for cattle farmers and ranchers across the region as well, since they need healthy land for their livestock.

The best way to help sage grouse and their habitats is to put more restrictive policies

on energy development. Although the plan has finally been completed and approved by the Biden administration, many conservationists and scientists still feel that it needs work before being implemented.

A group of scientists recently stated in a public letter that the plan would likely “have severe consequences for sage grouse”

The effects of climate change & habitat destruction have caused greater sage grouse populations to decline by 80 percent since 1965.

on what can be done in those areas, and to replace previously destroyed or fragmented habitats whenever possible. A federal plan designed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to accomplish these goals has been in the works since 2015, but it was delayed due to the Trump administration’s heavy emphasis

in its current form. Specifically, they are concerned that the BLM’s proposal would still allow for mining and some forms of energy development within sage grouse habitat, and would not plan to restore any destroyed land. As a result, many feel that the current plan will not do enough to save the greater sage grouse or their habitat, and may

serve to harm some landowners as well.

Western citizens and land stewards have a lot to gain if the greater sage grouse is protected. However, the government is still aiming for a proposal that can serve as a compromise between these citizens and the corporate and federal groups who want to prioritize energy development in these areas. The resulting friction between these two groups is practically unavoidable. If you would like to speak out on this issue, the BLM’s current proposal is available online and open to public comment until June 13th, 2024. ✦

CONTACTS: BLM releases long-awaited sage grouse protections, https://www. eenews.net/articles/blm-sage-grouseplan-aims-to-preserve-way-of-life-inthe-west/; Sage Grouse Protections and Livestock, https://www.dtnpf.com/agriculture/web/ag/news/article/2024/03/15/ blm-proposes-new-public-land-limits; Biden administration proposes protections for US West sage-grouse, to divided response from conservationists, https:// thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/4532643-sage-grouse-protections-proposed-biden-administration-conservationists-divided-response/; Reworked BLM plan still fails to protect sage grouse, https://wyofile.com/scientists-reworkedblm-plan-still-fails-to-protect-sagegrouse/

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

PHOTO: ANDREW PERILLOUX, UNSPLASH

TJust for Mom

CELEBRATIONS AND GIFTS SHE’LL TREASURE A

BY KIMBERLY BLAKER

he role of mothers in shaping their daughters’ and sons’ lives is unsurpassed. Mothers teach us to love, be strong, be confident, persist, live life to its fullest, and be the best we can be.

MOTHER’S DAY IS JUST around the corner. So, this year give her a gift from your heart and your undivided time to make it a special day she’ll treasure. Just remember, the pandemic isn’t over. When choosing a celebration, consider whether your mom, yourself, and others involved are fully immunized, and follow pandemic safety protocols.

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH

Serve your mom a scrumptious breakfast or take her out for Mother’s Day brunch. If you prepare it yourself, the following menu will be sure to please: fruit salad, juice, waffles or pancakes with her favorite blueberry or strawberry topping, Canadian bacon or fresh sausage, omelets or eggs benedict, homemade hash browns, and coffee cake or Danishes. Also, don’t forget the fresh cut flowers for the table centerpiece.

SPRING BLOOMS

What better way to spend a spring day than together in your mother’s garden? Pick up her favorite annuals and perennials: begonias, petunias, violets, morning glories, poppies, marigolds, snapdragons, or mums. Then enjoy a relaxing day together, planting and sprucing up her flower garden and catching up on old times.

MOTHER/DAUGHTER OR MOTHER/SON MEMORIES

Give your mom a keepsake that’ll be dear to her heart. Purchase Mothers & Daughters: A Record Book About Us to fill out and share with her. Or create your own memory book with a scrapbook or journal. Include photos and memories about special times the two of you have had together; the most important things you remember about your mother from your childhood; how she has inspired you; and the times you look forward to in the future.

THE MAIN EVENT

Surprise your mother with tickets to an event she’s been dying to see: the ballet, a concert, play or musical, the opera, a favorite sporting event, a comedy show, or dinner theater. Be sure to tell her you have something special planned (but not what), so she’ll be all yours for the day.

TRAIN EXCURSION

Spring is the perfect time to tour the countryside. Take a train ride with your mom, and enjoy the vivid colors of spring, blue skies, beautiful blossoms, and other scenic sights.

FAMILY PORTRAIT

If your family is like most, you’re well overdue for an updated family portrait. What better time to have it done than on Mother’s Day? Schedule to have your family’s picture taken at a studio, or hire a photographer for a photoshoot in the park. Coordinate with family members in advance on the formality and color scheme, so outfits don’t clash. Inform your mother how to dress for her special day, but keep the specific reason a surprise.

THE POWER OF POETRY

You don’t need to be a poet to write a special verse for your mother. In your poem, share what it was like growing up with her, how she influenced your life, or tell her just what she means to you. Then print it on stationery, and matte and frame it.

A LITTLE PAMPERING

Mothers spend many years pampering their children giving bubble baths, washing hair, and caring for them when they’re ill. Give your mother a special treat, a gift certificate for pampering at the spa where she can enjoy a Swedish massage, hair design, a sea spa manicure and pedicure, or a soothing facial.

WEEKEND GETAWAY

Put together a weekend package designed especially for your mom. Choose a city that offers excellent shopping, art museums and cultural centers, or even a quaint historic town with neat shops, cafes, and parks. Leave the dates for the getaway open so she can make the trip at her convenience, or so the two of you can make plans together.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Plan a relaxing day together, enjoying the outdoors. Head to a nearby park where you can meander along nature trails reminiscing or take a scenic bike ride. ✦

BOOKS FOR AND ABOUT MOMS

• Mother: A Cradle to Hold Me by Maya Angelou

• I Love You, Mom by Amylee Weeks

• Why a Daughter Needs a Mom by Gregory E. Lang

• Why a Son Needs a Mom by Gregory E. Lang

• Mothersongs: Poems For, By, and About Mothers by Sandra M. Gilbert et al.

• Mom, I Wrote a Book About You by M.H. Clark

• Real Poems for Real Moms: From a Mother in the Trenches to Another by Rachel S. Donahue

• Mom, Tell Me Your Story: Keepsake Journal by Susan Branch

• You Are One Amazing Lady: Special Thoughts to Share With a Truly Wonderful Woman by Douglas Pagels

• Dear Mother: The Hot Mess of Motherhood by Bunmi Laditan

MY WIFE GOT HER Mother’s Day gift early this year, and it’s just what she’s been needing: a chance to miss us.

“There’s a day-by-day list of things you need to know on the refrigerator,” said Betsy. “I put a bag full of little presents for the kids in your underwear drawer, so you can give them out whenever they need cheering up. Good-bye; I love you.”

Our kiss, there in the keepit-moving departure zone of the airport, was brief because she was catching a flight to Spain to rendezvous with two gal-pals from college. And, despite the encumbrance of a suitcase crammed full of money and clothes, she dashed into the terminal with the kind of pep and haste that are usually

Mom Takes a Holiday

BY RICK EPSTEIN

piles of books, papers, and toys that occupy most flat surfaces in the house. Thus, I will gently demonstrate to the entire family how humans ought to live and inaugurate a new era of household tidiness and gracious living.

I started in on one corner of the kitchen, figuring the tidiness would radiate outward from there until the whole house is ship-shape.

DAY TWO: While the two older girls were at school, I stayed home with Wendy.

At 10 a.m. the school nurse called: “Sally says her stomach hurts. She seems to have the bug that’s going around; can you come get her?” Bug, nothing. Sally’s stomach – not her heart – is her organ of sentiment. It aches when she’s sad. She misses

chirped again – 12-year-old Marie calling. “Dad, I forgot my lunch. Can you bring it please?”

When I gave the brown bag to the school secretary, I whined, “Doesn’t anybody just go to school?”

Back home, sick Sally had vomited into a wastebasket and presented it as proof that missing her mom had nothing to do with her illness.

DAY THREE: Sally was still a little sick, so I delved into the bag Betsy had left and gave her a book about superstars of figure-skating.

Wendy’s long brown hair had the wild, matted look of a musk ox’s fleece. And, according to Betsy’s memo, school pictures would be taken today at preschool. “When’s the last time you had a bath?” I asked her.

I found a coconut, floating in the sea.

Hey! said Wendy, That belongs to ME!

I hate to boast, but when I dropped her off at school there was no mistaking her species. The photos will be proof of my expert handling.

DAY FOUR: Wendy woke up asking, “Where are the fish?” She’d dreamed of being a mermaid, and reality was a disappointment. So, I looked into the surprise bag and dug out one of Betsy’s moreinspired gifts – a whoopee cushion!

“Every time I sit on this,” Wendy said, “I’ll think of Mommy.”

DAY FIVE: Betsy returns this afternoon. Our little adventure in motherlessness has been fun only because we know it’s just for a few days. I hope Betsy feels the same way about her own adventure and will be content to resume bathing Wendy and speaking English.

I’ve managed to keep current with the dishes and the laundry. The one corner of the kitchen that I straightened out on Day One still looks pretty good, but the tidiness failed to spread as I’d hoped. In fact, the rest of the house looks like, well, you know those hoarders whose houses fill up with stacks of assorted trash, and they live their lives in little pathways amid the clutter? Now imagine no pathways. Maybe I’ll make some before we leave for ✦

May the Fourth Be With You

HOST

A STAR WARS THEMED PARTY

BY CHERIE GOUGH

FTER GETTING A TASTE of the dark side in the last couple years, we’re ready to make the most of every celebration (because we can)! Team up with budding Star Wars fans to create festive family fun for May 4 (Star Wars Day). Transform your home into a Star Wars galaxy with these fun ideas.

JEDI ATTIRE

Form a family alliance by dressing in Star Wars gear whether it’s pajamas, favorite t-shirts or full costumes. Ask classmates to wear Star Wars face masks or shirts to make the school day special.

BRING OUTER SPACE TO YOUR PLACE

Create a party atmosphere by decorating with red and blue or black and silver. Get creative and use whatever you have on hand. Supplement with Star Wars themed napkins

and plates (available at party and discount stores). Make a playlist of iconic Star Wars music and turn it up full throttle to bring the galactic mood to life. Place pre-built Star Wars Lego masterpieces around the house. Anyone working online can choose a Star Wars Zoom background at https://news. disney.com/star-wars-video-backgroundsavailable. Yes, you can join the virtual company meeting from the cockpit of the Millennium Falcon (and others)!

MEALTIME FUN

Awaken the force with Chewbacca-shaped hash browns or maple bars for breakfast. Add a smile to the kids’ lunchboxes with a Star Wars note or riddle. Find free, downloadable notes online. Cook some “Chewie” chicken nuggets and Darth “Tater” tots for a fun, easy dinner. Check local retailers for Star Wars themed treats such as fruit snacks, crackers, popsicles, cereal and mac & cheese. Kids

can help make healthy lightsaber snacks: Sith-kebabs with cherry tomatoes and red pepper chunks or a fruit version with red strawberries and green grapes. Top cupcakes with stormtrooper decorated marshmallows (use a food-safe pen to draw faces). Make gingerbread or chocolate chip Wookie Cookies with the kids. Just for parents: End the evening with Cantina cocktails—Make them Imperial blue (using Curacao) or Rebel red (with grenadine). Cheers!

GET CRAFTY

Construct “lightsabers” from pool noodles. Find easy-to-follow directions at www. sandiegofamily.com/for-the-kids/crafts-forkids/pool-noodle-light-saber-craft. Make droids from cardboard boxes. Paint rocks to look like R2-D2, Chewbacca or a Jawa, or paint/draw your favorite Star Wars phrase or symbol. Write “May the fourth be with you” on the back and place the rocks around a

local park for neighbors to find. Learn how to make a Baby Yoda portrait using paint and an egg carton.

JEDI TRAINING GAMES

Backyard games are perfect for young Jedis, and keep festivities outdoors. Have a galactic egg race. Adapt this popular game by decorating eggs to look like stormtroopers. Bounce a balloon on the pool noodle lightsabers you made. Count how many bounces before it hits the ground. Create a Jedi obstacle course with items you already have (cones, hula hoops, pool noodles, crawling tunnels, balls, ramps, trampoline, etc.).

INDOOR FUN

Play a Star Wars version of a classic board game. Have a family video game battle playing Lego Star Wars or Battlefront. Binge watch your favorite Star Wars movies or episodes of the Mandalorian TV series. ✦

Advice on How to Make Sure Teenagers Hear You

BY CHERYL MAGUIRE

THE MOMENT MY VOICE emits sound I can see my twin teens’ eyes glaze over. Sometimes they must register at least one word I said (or maybe it’s just a Pavlovian response) because they use the dreaded eye-roll.

As a parent of a teenager, it can feel frustrating when you are speaking only to realize your teen isn’t listening to you. Experts agree it is important to have a strong relationship with your teenager which involves communication.

“An important predictor of how well your teen will listen to you is the strength of your relationship with them. The amount of time we spend building a relationship without expectations will increase the likelihood that they will listen,” said Dr. Mona Delahooke, pediatric psychologist, and author of, “Beyond Behaviors: Using Brain Science

and Compassion to Understand and Solve Children’s Behavioral Challenges.”

According to the experts some ways you can make sure teenagers hear you are:

CONNECT BEFORE YOU DIRECT

Dr. Laura Markham, clinical psychologist and author of, “Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids: How to Stop Yelling and Start Connecting,” suggested that parents should notice what their teen is doing or find some other way to make a warm connection before speaking to them. She also recommended sitting next to teenagers instead of yelling across the room, “Please clean your room.”

LISTEN

If you want teenagers to listen to you then you must also listen to them. Make sure when you listen to them that they feel understood.

Dr. Jennifer Salerno, nurse practitioner and author of, “Teen Speak: A guide to understanding and communicating with your teen,” said, “It’s all about modeling the behavior that you’d like them to reciprocate. Setting the stage for a positive discussion by actively listening causes them to feel respected and heard.”

REMAIN CALM

Dr. Markham said, “The most important thing is calmness. When you yell, you increase your teen’s stress level and they shut you out and lose the desire to cooperate. Never talk with your teen while you are angry.”

PAY ATTENTION

Dr. Delahooke recommended that parents pay attention to their emotional state and body language.  She said, “When you sit next to your teen, make sure you are providing a message of trust in them.”

ESTABLISH ROUTINES

If teenagers have a routine of what they are expected to do every day at that time of day, they are more likely to do it. These routines are also a good time to talk to them and be heard. Dr. Salerno said, “Activities like cooking together, walking the dog, and riding alone in the car are ideal times for an important topic to be discussed.”

CLARIFY YOUR ROLE

Teenagers are more likely to listen and follow your suggestions and requests if you clarify your role.

“Explain to your teen that the rules and boundaries you are trying to establish are there to help guide and protect them.,” says Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg, a physician at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and co-founder of the Center for Parent and Teen Communication. “When you clarify your role in this way your teen will more likely understand the purpose behind the rule -- big or small.”

Dr. Ginsburg explained that if your teen doesn’t take an action, you’d hoped for then make sure that when you discuss it with them make it about their behavior -- not the person.

Dr. Ginsburg stressed the importance of avoiding nagging. He said, “It’s easy to fall into a cycle of nagging that can lead to frustration on both sides. When teens sense your annoyance, they may become defensive. When you make requests in an accusatory tone, they become ineffective.”

PROVIDE OPTIONS

If there are chores that teenagers need to do then offer them the option of selecting one of three chores. Dr. Salerno said, “Teens feel respected when they are given options, not directives, which ultimately lowers their resistance.” You can also give them a choice of what time they want to complete their chores. ✦

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Let It Go

SEVEN THINGS TO STOP WORRYING ABOUT

BY SARAH LYONS

WORRYING, IT’S SOMETHING ALL parents do. I am guilty of it, especially when I lie awake at three am, with the silence of the house ringing in my ears. I worry about what I forgot to do, what I need to do, what I should have done, and what I already did.  Parenthood is hard. There is always something to be done, someone who needs assistance, and multiple things to worry about. The list is endless but may include everything from feeding your kids healthy foods, to your child’s friendships, to what others think about your choices. Some worries are valid, but many are not worth the time and effort. What if we could learn to let them go?

PERSONAL EXPECTATIONS

Before I became a parent, I had high expectations for myself as a mother. I had things I wanted to do and things I declared I would never do. After my first child was born, I quickly realized that I would change my perspective on most pre-child declarations. “Let go of the idea that you will be the perfect parent because it won’t happen.” says twin mother Aly Ridgeley of Kansas City. When parents accept that they are doing the best they can, at that moment, for their kids, they will be able to cross this worry off their list.

GUILT

Do you worry that you don’t spend enough time with your child? Do you feel guilty you were not able to breastfeed your child or that you missed a soccer game? Do you feel bad you forgot to remind your son to grab his lunch on the way out the door? The guilt of these things and more can weigh heavily on a parent but you have permission to let it go. It is okay if you miss a game or a school party. We all must make choices and sometimes those choices cause unnecessary guilt. Once a decision is made, move forward, and let go of the feelings of guilt. They will only rob you of enjoying the present.

OUTWARD APPEARANCES

A tidy house, a perfectly decorated home, an amazing wardrobe, all organic, home-cooked meals, the perfect marriage, smart, athletic, creative children, and a partridge in a pear tree. We want it all and we want it to be perfect, or at least appear that way. This picture is lovely, but it is not a realistic, reachable goal. It is easy to get caught up in what our families look like to others. It does not matter if your children wear perfectly coordinated outfits. Is your child dressed in weather appropriate clothing? Great. Does it match? It’s your lucky day. Social media puts so much pressure on us to keep up with what we

believe others are doing. I have a secret for you, Pinterest is not real life and what is posted on Facebook is typically the best of what is going on. Embrace the fact that no one is perfect, and nobody is expecting you to be.

WHAT IF’S

Parents often worry about things that haven’t even happened yet. What if he gets sick? What if she falls and gets hurt? What if I forget something important? What if he doesn’t make the team? What ifs are not worth the energy they use. Acknowledge they are unnecessary and decide not to waste time on them. Face the problems in front of you rather than worrying about issues that do not exist.

COMPARISONS

“Don’t compare yourself to other parents. Your family is unique. Your circumstances are unique. It would be like comparing apples and oranges.” says Lacey Rodriguez of Leavenworth, KS, “Do the best you can for your family and forget the rest.” Comparing yourself to other parents is never a good idea. Your parenting style for your children will always be different from others, but doesn’t mean it is bad. Another pitfall is comparing your children to their siblings or other children their age. Each child has their own unique personality and will develop at their own rate. If you feel your concerns are valid, consult your child’s doctor for peace of mind.

MISTAKES

Every parent makes mistakes, and it is easy to spend time worrying about what should have been done differently. The past cannot be changed and although not easy to do, we must let go of things we cannot change. We can learn from our mistakes and continue to do our best in the future. Parents have permission to let go of past mistakes and teach their children to do the same.

CONTROL

I am a recovering control freak. With each child we added to our family, I was worn down a little more. When our triplets arrived, it finally dawned on me that I am not in control. Once I realized (and accepted) this fact, a weight was lifted off my shoulders. Yes, my husband and I are still in charge of the household, but I cannot control what happens in life. It’s a roller coaster, instead of trying to steer, throw your arms up in the air and enjoy the ride.

Learning to let go of these worries usually leads to feelings of relief. Remember that each family is unique and each parent handles situations differently, it is easier to relax and enjoy your family more. ✦

DON’T LET GO

SIX THINGS PARENTS SHOULD HOLD ONTO

Parenthood changes you and while it’s freeing to let go of unnecessary worry, there are some things parents should still hold onto.

• Interests and hobbies

• Your relationship with your significant other

• Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine

• Friendships

• Encouragement of others

• Who you are outside of your role as parents

Movie Night

Visions of Change

BY BONNIE L. HARRIS

IT’S BEEN EIGHT YEARS

since we’ve seen Po and the Furius Five from the Kung Fu Panda franchise and I’m glad to say that Dreamworks has produced another stellar sequel. Kung Fu Panda 4 is colorful, funny, fast paced, and packed with excitement. We’re introduced to several

KUNG FU PANDA 4

Rated: PG

In theatres & streaming on Amazon

new characters and a diabolical female villain who challenges the powerful Dragon Warrior Po. We don’t see the Furious Five in this story, but they’re mentioned often and they’ll undoubtably make a return. In the meantime, Po has grown comfortable defending the Valley of Peace with Master Oogway’s staff of wisdom, but Master Shifu announces that Po must choose a successor and become the Valley’s spiritual leader. Change is difficult, and when Po hears of a new threat called the Chameleon, who plans to rule all of China, he launches one

Opposite points of view.

last mission. With an unwanted sidekick named Zhen, who knows where the Chameleon is hiding, Po sets out for Juniper City. It’s a tough journey through bandit country, bar fights, and the city’s sewers, but Po and Zhen finally infiltrate the Chameleon’s lair. Things are far worse than Po imagined when he discovers that Zhen is a double agent, and the Chameleon has harnessed the kung fu skills of dozens of spiritual masters. As the blood moon rises and the

FOR the PARENTS

One Ordinary Life

ONE LIFE

BBC Films, Rated: PG Streaming on Amazon

ONE LIFE is the story of Nicholas Winton and his harrowing fight to save Jewish children at the beginning of WWII. Set in both 1938 when Hitler invaded Czechoslovakia, and 1987 when Winton’s crusade was discovered by the British press, the film juxtaposes a historical drama with an elderly man who feels he failed. But at the time, what Winton accomplished was above and beyond anything the volunteers in Prague could imagine. They wanted to help thousands of refugees escaping Hitler’s army, but Winton focused on saving as many children as Britain would allow given their daunting immigration restrictions and the quickly closing borders around Prague. Armed with only fierce determination and good connections, he secured visas and safe passage for over six hundred children. But in the present as he ages, revisiting the past brings him heartache because of all the children who weren’t on the trains

Waiting for the trains.

Chameleon begins her conquest, Po must hand off the staff of wisdom and trust that Zhen, who has had a change of heart, will be able to defeat their enemy. At the last minute in the heat of battle, Po and Zhen are helped by family and friends, which gives Po the advantage to skadoosh the Chameleon right off her two-toed feet. After balance is restored and peace returns, Po makes a hard decision, but he learns that change can benefit everyone. ✦

Dreamworks Animation

to London. Amid the mountain of clutter in his home, a cherished scrapbook puts Winton in the spotlight when the BBC is alerted to his heroic story. He’s reunited with many of “Nicky’s children” and he begins a new life after realizing that an entire generation survived because of his efforts. Keep the Kleenex handy and be sure to watch the credits!

THE COLLEGE TOUR EXPERIENCE

7 THINGS PARENTS AND TEENS SEE DIFFERENTLY

BY KATY M. CLARK

THIS SUMMER PARENTS OF high schoolers will be taking their teens on college campus tours for decision day later this fall. They’ll see iconic buildings, lush green spaces, dorms resembling hotels, and bookstores packed with swag. All of this as they consider where their kids might land after high school graduation. But what will their teens see?

One gorgeous fall day, my husband and I strolled down the sidewalk. We took in our surroundings, noticing the historic buildings, a bucolic setting, and undergraduates relaxing in hammocks and studying on grassy lawns.

“This is beautiful, right?” I queried our teenage son, 17. He was walking alongside us during the campus tour.

“Yes,” he replied, with a bit more enthusiasm than I expected.

That’s when I noticed he wasn’t looking around at the buildings or noticing the landscaping. Rather, he was looking at a cute co-ed coming our way.

Aha! This was just the first example of things that parents and teens see differently on college visits. As I learned throughout the rest of our visit, there are lots of funny but true mismatches between what parents and their teens see. Let me share the ways.

ICONIC BUILDINGS

What parents see: This is it! The iconic building named after the illustrious founder where my child will spend the next four years pursuing his passion. Look at that architectural detail. I can just picture my son going to classes here, getting brighter by the minute! Oh, the learning that will go on here!

What teens see: A building.

THE DINING HALLS

What parents see: Gorgeous, deluxe dining halls reminiscent of upscale food courts at a designer mall. We aren’t in our college cafeterias from the 90s anymore, that’s for sure. All of these gourmet choices look pricey, but it’s a blessing that our teens will have so many choices and the opportunity to be so well-nourished.

What teens see: Cool! They have Panda Express and Starbucks.

THE MASCOT STATUE

What parents see: A work of art, probably endowed by some renowned alumni. It is prominently displayed in the center of campus and makes the perfect photo opp. Son, how about a picture during this visit so we can compare how much you change from this day until (gulp) the day you graduate?

What teens see: Something me and my buddies will climb on and stick our fingers up its nose. It’ll make a great photo opp after the first college party our parents must never know about.

THE GROUNDS

What parents see: Lovely, manicured spaces where students can relax and recharge while plugging into nature. Oh, look at all the black-eyed Susans and purple coneflowers! And how old is that giant oak? The squirrels are so cute.

What teens see: Grass. Trees. Squirrels.

THE STUDENT PARKING LOT

What parents see: This parking lot doesn’t look close enough to the dorms. Is it well-lit when it’s dark? Is there a shuttle back to the dorms? Is it patrolled by public safety officers? Where are the emergency kiosks? How much does a parking permit cost anyway?

What teens see: Cool! Freshmen can have cars on-campus.

THE BOOKSTORE

What parents see: Do you want a shirt or sweatshirt? I can’t believe my baby is going to college! This is where you’ll come to buy all your books next year. I bet they’re still really expensive. That hasn’t changed since the 90s.

What teens see: A store.

THE DORMS

What parents see: This doesn’t look like a dorm; it looks like a hotel. Wait, did the tour guide just say there were no more communal bathrooms? Everyone gets a suite with its own bathroom? And each floor has washers and dryers that text you when your laundry is done? Wow, just wow!

What teens see: Dorms.

“Hey, Mom and Dad,” I heard my son say, interrupting my mental list of all the things that parents and teens see differently on college tours. “I could see myself going here.”

“Me, too,” I said, looking around and picturing him on campus. My husband nodded in agreement.

Yes, I could see him walking past the historic buildings, grabbing a bite to eat at the dining halls, and living in the dorms. There was one more thing I saw, though.

I saw my heart on this campus next year. And perhaps that’s the biggest difference of all between what parents and teens see on college visits. ✦

SUMMER CAMP DIRECTORY

Breathe Better with Asthma, Wherever You Are

IfYOU HAVE ASTHMA, YOU know that symptoms can come on quickly, then worsen.

The things that make them do that are called triggers. An important part of managing asthma is knowing your triggers at home, work, school or while you’re outdoors.

A health care provider can help you figure that out, then you can take steps to avoid those triggers and breathe easier.

AT HOME

Because asthma is usually due to allergies, triggers are often allergens, or things that cause allergic reactions. Allergens such as pet dander, dust mites, pests and smoke can make asthma symptoms worse in some people, and for others, even trigger an asthma attack.

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) suggests that it may be helpful to combine a few different strategies to help reduce exposure to triggers.

People sensitive to dust can clean with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration vacuum and use mattress and pillow covers that prevent exposure to dust mites. If you’re sensitive to pests like cockroaches and rodents, consider integrated pest management, which involves removing and controlling pests through methods

such as traps or poison. Avoiding tobacco smoke, including secondhand smoke, can be especially helpful for some people with asthma.

AT SCHOOL

Asthma is one of the leading reasons children miss school. At school, kids may be exposed to dust mites, pests and mold, which may be asthma triggers for some children.

Because children spend lots of time at school, it can be helpful for teachers, school nurses or coaches to know what to do if your child’s symptoms flare up. Team up with a health care provider to develop an asthma action plan and share it with trusted adults at your child’s school.

AT WORK

The workplace can have hundreds of potential triggers, like chlorine-based cleaning products, bleaches, hair dyes and metal dust. Repeated exposures in the workplace can also lead to new triggers. Report new or worsening symptoms that occur at work to your health care provider and your workplace supervisor.

OUTDOORS

Everyday weather like cold, dry air can set off breathing problems. Air pollution can affect asthma, too.

It may be helpful to avoid some of the

worst pollution by adjusting when and where you exercise. Try to avoid exercising near busy roads or industrial areas. Visit airnow. gov to check your local air quality so you can plan to avoid outdoor activities when pollution is highest.

Managing your triggers is just one part of keeping your asthma under control. Work with a health care provider to develop an asthma treatment plan that includes taking medicines as prescribed and keeping track of your symptoms and where you are when they occur. That way, you can know what’s making your asthma worse or better. ✦

Mother’s Day Brunch Made Easy

FROM SWEET TO SAVORY and back again, here’s some ideas to turn the Mother’s Day morning meal into a full-blown feast with a menu made up of pleasing dishes. An exciting twist on a breakfast classic, it’s hard to beat French Toast Casserole when putting together your brunch spread. Crisp on top while soft and moist in the middle, it comes fresh out of the oven with the aroma of maple syrup and pecans that will have the whole house eager for a bite. It’s easy enough to make fresh in the morning but can also be prepared the night before so all

FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE

INGREDIENTS

• 1 loaf French bread (about 1 1/2 pounds), cut into 1-inch cubes

• 5 large eggs

• 1 1/2 cups unsweetened milk

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

• maple syrup, for serving

TOPPING

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or coconut oil, melted

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

• 1 cup frozen strawberries

• 1 cup frozen blueberries

• confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

PREPARATION

1. Grease 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Place bread cubes in baking dish. In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Pour mixture evenly over bread cubes.

2. If making casserole ahead, cover baking dish and refrigerate overnight. If baking immediately, let stand 30 minutes at room temperature to allow bread to soak up egg mixture.

3. Preheat oven to 350 F.

4. To make topping: Drizzle casserole with melted butter and sprinkle with brown sugar and pecans. Top with strawberries and blueberries.

5. Cover and bake 35 minutes then uncover and bake 10-20 minutes, or until topping is browned and egg mixture has mostly set.

6. Remove from oven, cover loosely with foil and let stand 10 minutes. Dust with confectioners’ sugar. Serve with maple syrup.

you have to do is add the topping and pop it in the oven.

When you’re craving something hearty and rich, switch up your brunch habits with wholesome and filling Breakfast Burritos. With protein to keep you full, veggies for a touch of added nutrition and hot sauce to pack a powerful punch of flavor in every bite, this hearty recipe will keep you full and bursting with energy until your next meal. Plus, they’re easy to make in a matter of minutes and totally customizable to accommodate every palate.

BREAKFAST BURRITOS SERVINGS:

4

INGREDIENTS

• 2 teaspoons canola oil

• 1 small red onion, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• salt, to taste

• pepper, to taste

• 4 eggs

• 4 egg whites

• 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese

• nonstick cooking spray

• 4 flour tortillas

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 1/4 cup salsa

• 1 large tomato, seeded and diced

• 1 avocado, sliced

• hot sauce (optional)

PREPARATION

1. In large skillet, heat canola oil over medium heat. Add red onion and red bell pepper; cook 8 minutes. Add black beans and red pepper flakes; cook 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Transfer to dish.

2. In medium bowl, whisk eggs and egg whites. Stir in cheese until combined. Heat large skillet over low heat, add egg mixture and scramble 3 minutes, or until cooked through.

3. Spread sour cream over tortilla. Spread salsa over sour cream. Spoon 1/4 bean mixture over salsa. Spoon 1/4 scrambled eggs over bean mixture. Top with diced tomatoes and avocado. Drizzle with hot sauce, if desired. Roll-up burrito. Repeat three times with remaining ingredients and serve.

Rescue Spotlight

Meet handsome large mixed breed pup, NEIL . He is a 6-year-old gentle giant with the sweetest soul and is extremely deserving of his forever home. Neil has been at the shelter since January when he was found tied up to our fence in the middle of the night on the first day of the recent ice storm. We sent him to a foster home for a few weeks to relax and learn more about his personality. He showed what a sweet, sensitive boy he is! He’s such a smarty pants with his tricks and is the best couch companion for some tv and cuddle time. He adores lounging outside in the sun and can often be found carrying around his toys in his mouth. Due to his past, he might be a little slow getting to know new people, but once he does, he becomes your best friend for life!

Neil is potty trained, neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccines. He weighs 85 lbs., should meet any dog siblings at the shelter prior to adoption, and may be too much for kitties. As much as we love hanging out with Neil, we can’t wait for him to find his forever family and thrive!

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 WETZEL , a long-haired golden tabby adult male kitty about 4 years old. He is the perfect mix of playful and couch potato. He will spend hours chasing feathers and strings around the room as long as someone is playing with him. He can be shy with strangers, but he warms up quickly. He loves treats, getting gentle pets, and would enjoy an active home where he gets lots of attention – likely best as an only cat. Sweet Wetzel is perfect for an adopter who is experienced caring for a long-haired cat. He has been neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and is negative for FIV & FeLV. To meet Wetzel, please call 541-225-4955 option 1, or visit our website at CatRescues.org for more info.