Oregon Family Magazine by Oregon Family Magazine

Our Contributors

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1. RICK EPSTEIN

A Dad’s Eye View contributor, also award-winning 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.

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. PAM HOEPFL

Pam Hoepfl has been the face of Precision Capital since 2003, and serves as Director of Capital. For over two decades, she has provided investors with private money real estate loans and fund participation with a portfolio exceeding $150 million. Pam is registered to sell real estate securities, is a Certified Fund manager, an Accredited Investor and an Oregon Association of Realtors Certified Instructor.

4. D’ARCY MARTIN

D’arcy Martin is a native Oregonian and has been a Realtor for over 3 decades. She is also an experienced real estate investor and house flipper that has used Precision Capital herself for private money loans on many of her purchases. D’arcy is registered to sell real estate securities and is a Certified Fund Manager II

5. PAM MOLNAR

Pam Molnar is a writer, storyteller and mother of three. She enjoys writing about moments and events that bring people together. When she is not writing, Pam creates escape room kits and PowerPoint games which she sells in her Etsy shop, Pam’s Party Printables.

6. 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.

7. 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.

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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DEAR EARTHTALK

Are we really all exposed to many hazardous chemicals that come off the packaging our food travels in? What can we do to minimize our exposure to these potential toxins in our food?

large percentage of our food packaging contains toxic Food Contact Chemicals (FCCs), which are chemicals that come into contact with foods during manufacturing, packaging or transportation. Notable FCCs include BPA, BPS and BPF, all commonly found in soda and soup cans, plastic food linings, and DVDs, and plasticizers or phthalates, which are widely used to make plastic products more flexible and durable. At least 25 percent of FCCs, including BPAs and plasticizers, can be found in the human body due to exposure to food packaging, and can be extremely hazardous to our health. Some health risks include harm to the immune system, cancer, liver toxicity, thyroid effects and reproductive toxicity. BPAs are especially hazardous for women, as they are also toxic to the ovaries and uterus.

— WILLIAM FRELEIGH, NEWARK, DE

chemicals in our food. For

one, buy food that is stored in glass jars or BPA-free boxes instead of metal cans and plastic containers, which are more

with recycling codes 3 or 7, and black plastic kitchenware.

FCCs are also prevalent in cleaning products and other household items. You can reduce

particles that are easily inhaled.

Unfortunately, the only way that we will be able to permanently get rid of FCCs is to campaign for them to be banned by the government and by national retailers. Several volunteer-led campaigns have already spoken out on the issue, and a lot of headway has been made in banning specific toxic chemicals, including BPAs, in California. If you would like to help canvas for the banning of toxic chemicals in food packaging, consider volunteering for Take Out Toxics or other local campaigns that are pressuring their local governments and retailers to call for chemical bans. ✦

Due to the prevalence of FCCs in so much food packaging, it is impossible to fully avoid them. However, there are ways to reduce our exposure to toxic

likely to contain FCCs. Also, wash your hands often and always before eating, steer clear of fast-food and fatty foods and eat fresh, unprocessed foods, especially organic fruits and vegetables. You can also reduce risks when preparing food by using wooden, stainless steel or silicone kitchenware, and avoiding non-stick pans, disposable packaging, packaging

your exposure to chemicals in these products by using glass or stainless-steel reusable water bottles, buying fragrance-free soaps, cosmetics and cleaners, refusing paper receipts and avoiding vinyl carpets and fabrics. It is also recommended that you keep your windows open for ventilation whenever possible, as synthetic chemicals often deteriorate into dust

CONTACTS: Reduce Exposure To FCCs, www.consumerreports.org/health/ food-contaminants/how-to-reduceexposure-to-plastic-in-food-everywhereelse-a9640874767; Take Action With Take Out Toxics, https://toxicfreefuture.org/ research/take-out-toxics-pfas-chemicalsin-food-packaging/

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

THE POWER OF Giving and Nourishment

FOOD For Lane County gives children and families hope this holiday season and year round.

BY KELLCIE MULLANEY

INCE 1985, FOOD FOR

Lane County (FFLC) has been a lifeline providing hope and nourishment for thousands of families in Lane County. As part of the Oregon Food Bank statewide network and Feeding America (the national network), FFLC plays a vital role in the fight against hunger. Through a network of partner agencies, including food pantries, meal sites, and shelters, they distribute millions of pounds of food to those who would otherwise go without. In 2023 alone, FFLC distributed 8.3 million pounds of food, reaching over 80,000 individuals, ensuring that children and their families don’t face hunger alone.

FOOD PROGRAMS FOR FAMILIES & CHILDREN

FFLC offers several programs specifically focused on supporting children and families. The Snack Pack program provides elementary-aged children with bags of kid-friendly snacks to take home on weekends or during school breaks. In 2023, FFLC distributed 14,275 snack packs at six schools around Lane County, ensuring kids had something to eat when school meals are unavailable. Additionally, their Cereal for Youth program distributes snack-sized portions of nutritious cereal to kids through schools and youth programs across Lane County, offering a convenient and healthy option during the school day. In 2023, over 233,000 packages of cereal were distributed to 95 local partners. One student shared, “It’s a wonderful resource because not a lot of students have access to [healthy food] because they either have parents that can’t work, or sometimes students like me who don’t have family to provide for them.”

At Springfield High School (SHS), an on-site food pantry provides students and their families with weekly food boxes. “If you have these resources in such a common place, it normalizes asking for things you need,” says Midori R., a student at SHS.

FOOD For Lane County operates one of the largest Summer Food Programs in Oregon. The Summer Food Program (SFP) provides free, nutritious meals five days a week during

the summer months when many families lose access to school meals. In the summer of 2024, FFLC hosted 31 meals site and served 28,840 meals to kids across Lane County.

The Dining Room, FOOD For Lane County’s meal site, provides hot meals in a welcoming, restaurant-style setting where guests are treated with dignity and respect. Unlike traditional meal sites, The Dining Room creates a community-oriented atmosphere, offering hearty portions served by caring staff and volunteers. This encourages connection and conversation, helping guests feel valued and cared for. Families with children are always welcome to visit the Dining Room.

FOOD For Lane County operates its own Mobile Pantry program, designed to bring food to communities where traditional food pantries may be less accessible. The Mobile Pantry currently makes eight to twelve distribution stops across Eugene, Springfield, and Cottage Grove, ensuring wider reach. The Mobile Pantry provides recipients with a three-to-five-day supply of nutritionally balanced groceries.

The Garden Program also plays a vital role in addressing food insecurity while prioritizing community involvement, education, and sustainability. Collectively, the GrassRoots Garden and Youth Farm grow about 130,000 pounds of organic fruits and vegetables each year. The produce grown at these sites is distributed to food pantries and other FFLC programs, and is also sold at their youth-run farm stand every summer.

The GrassRoots Garden is a 2.5-acre site featuring a City of Eugene compost demonstration area and a full outdoor kitchen, where staff and Oregon State University-Lane County Extension Service leads workshops and educational activities

for people of all ages. Dozens of local schools visit the garden each year on field trips to learn gardening basics and nutrition. Each day, volunteers receive a fresh hot lunch made with ingredients found at the garden. “It’s an eye-opening experience for adults and children alike. Whether it be an adult saying ‘I don’t usually eat like this, can you teach me how to make that dish?’ or a child saying ‘This is my favorite soup ever!’ to their parent that struggles getting veggies into their kiddo’s diet. It’s an awesome experience to see the people in our community have access to not only fresh organic produce, but also learn how to prepare and preserve it through the kitchen program,” says Jamie Johnson, GrassRoots Kitchen Coordinator.

After 25 years of operating its Youth Farm on land owned by the Springfield School District, FOOD For Lane County purchased 25-acres of agricultural land near the base of Mt. Pisgah in Eugene. This purchase was made possible thanks to funds from the Oregon State Legislature and two anonymous donors. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for FOOD For Lane County. To safeguard this important agricultural land, have the opportunity to expand our growing operations, and to settle into a forever home for the Youth Farm is so special,” says FFLC Executive Director Carolyn Stein. “We can’t wait to invite the public to join us here when we fully transition our operations in 2026.”

FOOD For Lane County also offers a Senior Grocery Box and Meals on Wheels to seniors in the community facing food insecurity. Other impactful programs include the Extra Helping initiative, which provides weekly servings of bread and produce to residents in affordable housing communities. Trillium Produce Plus brings fresh produce to community partners in a farmer’s market setting.

THE IMPORTANCE OF CONSISTENT SUPPORT

All FFLC programs not only address food insecurity, but build community engagement by encouraging volunteerism and participation. Consistent access to nutritious food is crucial for families, not only in the winter months, but year-round. FFLC’s work is possible because of the generosity of individuals in the community. Through donations, volunteering, or participating in a local food drive, contributions large or small can make a real difference.

DONATE FUNDS. With every dollar donated to FFLC, the organization can access and distribute two meals to the community. Your financial support helps fill essential nutrition gaps, ensuring that children receive the foods that are critical to their development. (See QR code)

SCAN TO SUPPORT FFLC!

VOLUNTEER. Whether you’re an individual or part of a group (church, business, civic, or beyond), FFLC has numerous volunteer opportunities available. Volunteering is a great way to give back as a family or with friends. Opportunities can be tailored for large or small groups, making it easy to get involved. (See QR code)

SUPPORT A FOOD DRIVE. This season, FFLC has partnered with several local businesses to make it easy for the community to contribute critically needed food items.

• Market of Choice Food Drive | November 2 - 24. All four Eugene Market of Choice locations will have food donation barrels available for drop-offs.

• Stuff the Bus | November 15 - 16. In partnership with BiCoastal Media and LTD, join FFLC November 15th at Walmart in Springfield (Olympic Street location) and November 16th at Walmart in Eugene (Green Acres Road location) to collect enough food and funds to fill an LTD bus!

• Turkey Trot | November 28. A fun, family event on Thanksgiving morning! A portion of each registration supports FFLC. Register here: bit.ly/FFLC-TurkeyTrot-24

• The “Giving Machine” | November 2129. Valley River Center will have a giving vending machine. Just like buying a soda or sweet treat, you can purchase a week’s worth of meals for a family in need straight from the vending machine!

• Giving Tuesday | December 3. Join KVAL newscasters at the Take A Bite Out of Hunger event at BiMart on 18th Avenue in Eugene. They will be collecting food and funds for the community. ✦

Movie Night

Survival Skills

BY BONNIE L. HARRIS

WE’VE SEEN

movies about robots running amok and robots gaining superior intelligence to humans, but the wonderfully charming new film, The Wild Robot, shows us what animals might think about robots and what robots can learn from animals. It’s also

THE WILD ROBOT Dreamworks Animation Rated: PG

In theatres & streaming on Amazon

a story about parenting, being a loyal friend, and learning where you truly belong. That seems like a lot to ask of an animated movie, but The Wild Robot delivers everything wrapped up in gorgeous animation, a terrific soundtrack, and featuring some very memorable characters. When a Rozzum Robotic Unit is stranded on an island after a typhoon, she’s activated by a sea otter and she begins searching for someone to assist. After all, a ROZ unit always completes its task, just ask! While in the forest, Roz is chased by an angry bear and accidentally destroys a

goose’s nest leaving a single egg. When a wily fox named Fink tries to steal the egg, Roz saves it just as it hatches. Little Brightbill imprints on her and now Roz has three problems. She must learn how to feed her gosling, teach him to swim, and teach him how to fly before the end of summer. The other forest animals aren’t eager to help, but eventually Roz wins them over, and Fink the fox becomes her constant companion, mainly because Roz feeds him too. Suddenly, the goose migration looms and

FOR the PARENTS

Never Let Up

REZ BALL

Springhill Company, Rated: PG-13 Streaming on Netflix

DESCRIBING REZ BALL as just a movie about a Native American high school basketball team that loses its star player does a disservice to this touching story of resilience, community pride, and heritage. It’s not only about a young basketball team making it to the New Mexico State Finals against overwhelming odds, but it’s also about the struggles of their female coach to return to her life on the reservation. Much like her players, Coach Hobbs doubts herself and her abilities after so many setbacks and disappointments. The film is also about coping with teen suicide, and it’s about Native American parents trying to protect not only their youngsters, but also their language and traditions. Tie that into some great action on the court, outsider prejudices, a glimpse into Native American lore, and how the townspeople come together for each other and you have a winning streak to rival the Chuska Warriors

Roz worries that Brightbill will struggle even though he’s now a teenaged goose and eager to be independent. Also a danger is Roz’s homing beacon which leads her manufacturer to her location. It’s a fight against a robot army to save Roz from being deprogrammed, but Brightbill and the animals win the day. No ending spoilers except to recommend having a Kleenex handy for the sweet ending between mother and son, and be sure to enjoy the final credits. ✦

championship season. Hats off to director Sydney Freeland for an authentic film that’s sometimes heart wrenching and sometimes very funny, but always realistic. We cheer for the struggling family that finally comes together as well as for the undercurrent of hope in the Navajo Nation.

Fink and Roz make plans.

Questions in the huddle.

BY PAM MOLNAR

Traditionally, Advent calendars are small gifts you open for 24 days in December. This year, plan 24 activities to enjoy with the family during the holiday season. Not sure where to start? Check out our list below.

MAKE A BLANKET fort and read a Christmas book. Simply put a large blanket over the kitchen table, add cozy pajamas, a few pillows, and cozy reading light.

2 TRY CHRISTMAS CAROL Karaoke. Head over to Karafun.com where you will find instrumental versions of Christmas songs as well as lyrics.

3 HAVE A GINGERBREAD house contest. Break the group into teams or work individually to complete your gingerbread house kit.

4 PURCHASE CHEAP CANVAS and paints from a craft store to paint winter scenes that you can continue to display in January. Holiday paint-bynumber sets are fun, too.

HAVE A PUZZLE or game night. If you have a competitive family, purchase a few of the same puzzle (100-300 pieces) and see who can finish it the fastest.

6 MAKE A HOT cocoa bar. Fill a crockpot with your favorite hot chocolate recipe and offer mix-ins like candy canes, sprinkles, whipped cream, and marshmallows.

7 MAKE GIFTS FOR Amazon and UPS drivers. Fill a dollar store mug with a hot cocoa pack, and candy cane with a note that says “Just add water.”

8 CUT OUT SNOWFLAKES. You can find directions to make snowflake cutouts on Instructables.com or YouTube. Hang in windows or doorways.

9 MAKE PLANTABLE HOLIDAY cards. Add torn paper and water to a blender to make a pulp. Add wildflower seeds. Flatten out to dry. Decorate and give it to friends.

10 SPONSOR A FAMILY and go shopping together. If you choose a family to sponsor for the holidays, take the kids along to pick out food, clothes or toys.

11 GET OUTSIDE TO play Winter Olympics games. Your games can include relay races, snowball distance throwing or freeing objects from a block of ice.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL fire station, hospital, or police department and drop off some treats. Instead of cookies or candy, try water bottle flavors, granola bars, or winter essentials like lip balm.

13 DECORATE YOUR BEDROOM doors. Use removable hooks and tape to hang up garland, battery-operated lights or personalized art on your kid’s bedroom doors.

14 WATCH A LOCAL holiday play. Small community theatres and local high schools usually have a holiday play or musical that runs in December. Prices are lower and sometimes free.

PARTICIPATE IN A holiday-themed 5K. Check out FindARace.com to find December races in your area. Invite family and friends to dress up in Santa hats and run for charity or just for fun.

16 THRIFT STORE SWEATERS to make your own Ugly Christmas Sweater. Decorate with garland, pom poms, buttons, felt, beads and bells.

17 GO ON A Christmas decoration scavenger hunt in the neighborhood. You

can find printables online or create your own. You can also do this with Bingo cards.

18 ELF YOUR NEIGHBORS. Create a little basket of goodies – store bought or homemade and leave it at their front door with an anonymous note, and encourage them to pay it forward.

19 MAKE A CHRISTMAS tree on the wall with Christmas cards you receive from friends and family. If you don’t know how else to display your Christmas cards, why not

put them on the wall in the shape of a tree?

20 MAKE FOOD FOR the birds or squirrels. Add two cups of birdseed to 1 cup of each - peanut butter, lard, cornmeal, flour and oats. Place in molds until dried. Hang in a nearby tree and watch them eat.

21 MAKE APPETIZERS FOR dinner. If you want to try out new holiday appetizers or sides before preparing them for your guests, this is a fun way to do a taste-test run.

22 LISTEN TO A Christmas radio show. You can

find old radio shows on Spotify or YouTube. Cozy up on the couch with your comfy blankets, warm drinks, snacks, and enjoy!

23 DO SOME PRE-HOLIDAY pampering. Choose a day at the spa or salon or pamper yourself at home with store bought face masks, nail polish, and a bubble bath.

24 GIVE MRS. CLAUS the night off. With all the shopping and wrapping complete, take time to just admire your hard work and count your blessings. Another holiday season is in the books! ✦

Volunteer Activities

VHOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST FOR YOUR FAMILY

BY SANDI SCHWARTZ

OLUNTEERING AS A FAMILY IS such a wonderful way to bond and to feel better overall. When we make others happy, we experience an amazing biological phenomenon called a “helper’s high” that is the result of our brain releasing chemicals called endorphins. We experience an energy in our body that is similar to the rush we feel after we exercise. These positive feelings make our kids happier and healthier by reducing stress and anxiety and feelings of sadness, loneliness or depression.

Finding the right family volunteer activities can be overwhelming at times. You may feel uncertain about what is expected and question whether your children can participate. It is so important that your children feel comfortable where you volunteer, get inspired by the work you do, and enjoy themselves. Without these three components, our children won’t reap all the amazing benefits of volunteering. Plus, we want them to love helping others so they continue to do so for a lifetime.

When searching for the appropriate activity, consider the following priorities:

PROJECT FOCUS

The first step is to brainstorm as a family to decide what types of volunteer activities you are interested in doing. Ask your children who they would like to help. Is there a particular cause they feel passionate about, such as feeding homeless people, making art for other children, helping animals, or visiting the elderly or sick? What interests, skills, and talents do your family members have? Do you prefer to be indoors or outdoors? Do you wish to work directly with people or do something quietly like painting or pulling weeds? The options are endless, so it is important to narrow down your choices and focus on projects that your family will get the most out of.

ORGANIZATION’S MISSION

Do your research before you sign up with a specific organization. Find out the group’s history and how it got started, the goals and

Young boy donates canned food to FOOD For Lane County.

mission, who its leaders are, and how it is funded. Check their website, search online for press coverage, and visit sites like www. charitywatch.org and www.charitynavigator. org. If possible, ask a current or past volunteer about the pros and cons of the organization. Getting a referral from someone you know is the best option, especially because your children will be participating.

LOCATION

Next, you will want to make sure you search for projects that are close to home so you do not have to drag your kids far to volunteer. Check your local paper, call charitable organizations, or search online to find the perfect places for kids to volunteer in your area.

COST

Although rare, check to see if there are any fees to volunteer. You may also want to consider any other costs involved like travel, equipment such as certain clothing required, or requested products or monetary donations.

TIME COMMITMENT

Decide how much time you have to volunteer. It could be once a week, once a month, or once a year. Start slow and gradually increase your involvement if the project is working out well. You may choose to volunteer with different organizations each time to expose your children to a wide variety of experiences.

AGE RANGE GUIDELINES

Look for activities that your whole family can participate in. Before you commit to a project, check to see if there are any age requirements listed. It may take some hunting around, but you should be able to find age-appropriate options. Even babies can take part in nursing home visits, charity walks, and beach clean ups.

ACTIVITY EXPECTATIONS

Before you show up, find out exactly what you will be doing. Will there be heavy lifting involved? Will you have to get down and dirty? Will the project be a boring and repetitive task that will make your kids annoyed? Make sure the activity is something that your kids will actually enjoy before you invest your time.

SAFETY

No matter what, safety needs to come first when children are involved. You may want to avoid going to activities in neighborhoods that make you uncomfortable. Your kids may be scared to talk to strangers, so consider

starting with familiar people and places. As they get older, you can start to venture out and expose them to more mature situations.

FUN FACTOR

Finally, if it isn’t an enjoyable experience for your kids, then what’s the point? Choose

projects that involve your children in a fun way, but also teach and inspire them. Avoid topics and activities that are too serious and sad for young children. Be sure to engage with them afterwards and ask what they thought, and if they would be willing to do it again. ✦

December 26-28, Kick City Sports Park 10am to 1pm, Age 7 to 15, Cost: $150 U15-19

HOW HOLIDAY SHOPPING IS CHANGING IN THE

digital age digital age digital age

BY LISA GRAYSTON

THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS A TIME MOST retailers, and people who love celebrating and gift-giving, look forward to above all. While making predictions may seem risky, a number of indicators point to a jolly holiday season for shoppers and retailers alike this year. To get a finger on the pulse of 2024 shoppers, Coveo conducted an annual holiday shopping outlook report called, “Gift or Grinch? Unwrapping This Season’s Shopper Spending Plans,” based on a survey of 4,000 consumers in the U.S. and U.K., and in partnership with Arlington Research. Going a step further, they compared those shoppers’ views with retailer perceptions from last year’s holiday report surveying retail

executives from 92 U.S.-based retailers, most with revenues above $250M.

The upshot? Many approaches top retailers are pursuing to improve retail sales - optimizing Black Friday/Cyber Week events, using AI to offer shoppers personalized recommendations and maximizing promotions to improve shopper loyalty - also create what shoppers want: opportunities to find the perfect gifts for everyone on their list while scoring great deals.

2024 CONSUMER SHOPPING OUTLOOK

Over three-fourths of surveyed shoppers (76%) say they plan to maintain or increase gift purchases this year, which retailers will be happy to hear. In fact, 59% of shoppers say they plan to cut down on everyday purchases to prioritize their gifting budgets.

While a 2023 retailer survey found most retailers (84%) feel consumers can get deals anytime, the majority of retailers (58%) believe holiday events remain a powerful source of revenue, with 76% of the above-average retail performers supporting this idea. Retailers say they approach the shopping peak as a coordinated effort to create brand excitement, and shoppers agree.

In the Coveo Shopping Report, 68% of U.S. shoppers said they plan to shop at one or more stores on Black Friday or Cyber Monday, with big box/department stores being the top holiday shopping category. Electronic stores (37%) and fashion/apparel (36%) were the top two shopping choices for Black Friday or Cyber Monday.

GENERATIVE AI AND THE ONLINE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

There’s no question AI has changed — and will continue changing — how we shop. For retailers, that means learning how technology can

create a positive user experience that also drives sales and builds brand loyalty. For consumers, this means making the search for the perfect gift seamless: a quicker, more personalized, more convenient and satisfying way to shop.

The Coveo 2024 Holiday Shopping Report found digital shopping continuing its upward trend, with 80% of shoppers finding special offers purely through digital channels (email, social media, online search and online marketplaces). Shoppers appreciate shopping assistance, with 61% of consumers saying that pre-set search categories like “gifts for dad” or “gifts under $50” are helpful. Nearly one in three shoppers (31%) also say having generative AI provide specific holiday gifting recommendations would be useful - rising to nearly half (44%) for millennials.

When it comes to online shopping, shoppers are only a browser window away from a better experience. Shoppers expect personalized and relevant experiences, similar to what they would get from a knowledgeable store associate. Only AI can effectively help companies successfully deliver individualized, trusted, and connected experiences at a scale that meets and exceeds people’s expectations. And if you add GenAI to the mix, you not only provide shoppers with answers, but you provide them with a deeper level of advice - such as which lotion is best for your particular skin type or problem area.

OFFERS AND PROMOTIONS TAILOR-MADE FOR SUCCESS

The Coveo Shopping Report also found an impressive 90% of shoppers are open to adding items to their existing orders during the holidays, presenting a golden opportunity for retailers to boost sales. Offers like free shipping, relevant special promotions and personalized recommendations also delight shoppers by helping them find the perfect gift while maximizing value.

When this year’s survey asked consumers what would compel them to add to an existing order when shopping online, “Meeting the minimum spend to get free shipping” was the top answer (62%). The second highest response was, “Relevant special offers popping up” (48%), followed by “Recommendations for family members” and “Recommendations for other items” (both 26%).

Top-performing retailers from the 2023 study recognized this growing interest in receiving relevant personalized offers. Clearly on track with what today’s shoppers expect, 90% of retail executive respondents said the ability to provide personalized offers was moving from “nice-to-have” to “must-have.”

The surveys of both retailers and consumers make it clear that “one-size-fits-all” thinking no longer motivates sales. In today’s digital, AI-powered shopping landscape, it’s crucial to offer increasingly personalized offers and deals both to please consumers and to stay competitive. Business success during the busy holiday season means creating deliberate, hyper-personalized, focused strategies that reach and delight each consumer, wherever they are on their shopping journey. ✦

Lisa Grayston is the Vice President of Commerce Operations at Coveo. To learn more about how Coveo helps businesses make the most of AI in today’s digital shopping environment, check out their free e-book at Coveo.com

Private Lending and Investing Advantages 101

BY PAM HOEPFL AND D’ARCY MARTIN

FOR

OREGONIANS LOOKING for flexible financing options, private lending has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional banking. Whether you’re in the midst of a real estate transaction or in need of some short-term capital, private lenders offer unique opportunities that standard banks often can’t provide. For business purpose loans, Precision Capital often work with borrowers that need loans for fix and flips, new construction, or commercial development.

Unlike conventional banks, private lenders are not bound by the same restrictive lending criteria, which gives them the flexibility to structure loans that fit a variety of financial situations. While interest rates on private loans typically range from 11% to 12%, borrowers benefit from shorter approval times and fewer restrictions. This can be particularly helpful in real estate markets like Eugene, Portland, and Bend, where quick access to capital can make all the difference.

Another key advantage of private lending is the absence of prepayment penalties. Borrowers can sell or refinance their property when it suits them, without the added financial burden of extra fees. Loan terms generally last between one and two years,

giving borrowers the flexibility to meet their short-term goals.

Private lending can be an excellent solution for those who may not meet the strict requirements of traditional banks or need faster funding than a typical mortgage can provide.

For investors, private lending offers an appealing opportunity to diversify portfolios. By investing in notes secured by real estate, investors can benefit from stable, passive income. With investments starting at $25,000, private lending allows for real estate-backed security without the direct management of property, making it an attractive option for those seeking both growth and income.

If you’re exploring private lending options, or would like to diversify your investment portfolio, Precision Capital, based here in Eugene, can help guide you through the process. They specialize in private loans and investments across the state, offering solutions tailored to client needs. Visit their website, or contact them directly to learn more about how private lending can help support your financial future and goals. ✦

This information does not constitute an offer to sell, nor the solicitation of an offer to buy securities. Any such offering will be made through the offering documents which include the Private Placement Memorandum or Offering Circular, the Limited Partnership Agreement, and the Subscription Agreement, all of which investors should carefully review before investing.

Saturday, November 16 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

A Dad’s Eye View Thanksgiving Among the Vegetarians

BY RICK EPSTEIN

IT’S SILLY TO FIXATE ON one meal, but still, Thanksgiving dinner is a tradition going way back to the hard-partying days of the Pilgrims. And the older I get, the more comfort I get from proper observance of ancient traditions. But this year I will sit down to a feast that will be shared with vegetarians. I foresee a table groaning under the weight of a bountiful spread of mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, green beans, chestnut stuffing, and there, beside my plate, a plasticwrapped Slim Jim snack sausage – a grudging concession to my perverse craving for flesh. What could have led to this sad place?

My oldest daughter Marie

with them.”

Marie, now 12, made the transition to vegetarianism a few months ago at dinnertime. When my wife Betsy brought three little cornish game hens out of the oven, I said, “Hey, look! It’s Donald Duck’s nephews!”

“Dad!” said Marie. She’d been a picky eater for a long time, with her list of acceptable foods getting shorter and shorter. She subsists mostly on candy, nibbled in her room. “I’m not going to eat those little chickens. I’m becoming a vegetarian starting now.”

Sally, age 9, followed her big sister’s lead a couple of days later. Another picky eater, she has always

discredit food to get out of eating it, saying it is “rotten” or “sour.” Now she can take the moral high ground and shove aside huge categories of food that stand between her and dessert.

With Wendy, age 5, I think it’s just a power play. Being the youngest and smallest, she practices emotional judo – she’ll grab anything she can, whether it’s a birthday gift or a chicken leg, and figuratively beat you over the head with it.

At dinner last week, she yelled, “I DON’T WANNA EAT A MURDERED ANIMAL!” And with that, she joined her sisters in vegetarianism. Suddenly the chicken leg on her plate looked dismembered.

knowing I wouldn’t be enjoying too many more of these.

The vegetarian bloc is now 3-2 in our house, and my wife, who does most of the cooking, is leaning that way. Betsy eats a lot of canned tuna, which is a well-known “gateway” food to vegetarianism. It may be only a matter of days before she topples like a domino.

Because I’d been brought up that way, I’ve been pretty comfortable about eating meat – until now, when I’m reminded daily that I’m no better than a vampire who must claim a life before each sunrise. I really do admire my daughters’ unwillingness to eat fellow creatures. But I’m not giving up without a struggle.

Streamline Cooking This Holiday Season A

NYONE WHO HAS EVER hosted a big holiday meal knows there can be a lot of pressure to ensure everything comes out at the right time, and more importantly, tastes great.

Whether you’re feeding your family or a crowd, here’s how to streamline your cooking during the holidays and beyond by using the right equipment to maximum capabilities…

Versatile appliances eliminate the need for a slew of single-use pieces of equipment like pizza ovens, air fryers and secondary ovens, which can clutter the kitchen and make your job more complicated. Being able to do much of your cooking with just a few appliances will keep you organized during the busy holiday meal prep rush. With that in mind, consider outfitting your kitchen with a double oven range or multi-function oven, which will allow you to cook independently in a single standard size appliance.

With two ovens, you can prepare multiple dishes that require different temperatures or modes simultaneously, so that you can roast the holiday turkey or ham in the larger oven, while steaming or baking your sides in the smaller oven and stovetop, without the hassle of over and undercooking, or crossing flavors between dishes. A double oven like the Italian-made Verona Appliances 36” Double Oven Prestige Range gives the extra space you need to produce the quantity and quality of food you want. Ten cooking modes empower you to easily achieve a flawless crust on a casserole and perfect your favorite seasonal cookie recipe.

To stay truly agile as a home chef, you’ll

also want to make sure that you’re making full use of every accessory included in your appliances. The Verona Ultima range, for example, is a premier cooking appliance that comes with upgraded features and accessories, including an air fry tray, space saver shelf, broiler pan and a griddle. Its blend of design and innovation, likely to inspire compliments from holiday guests. Both Verona and Lofra are exclusively imported by EuroChef USA. For more information, visit eurochefusa.com.

Beyond equipment, your day will go more smoothly if you also make a plan. Write out a timeline of the tasks, including the times when items need to go in and come out of the oven. You can also recruit family members to assist with dicing, peeling, and prep. Finally, don’t be afraid to take guests up on their inevitable offers to bring something. Whether it’s dessert or cocktail ingredients, they’ll be giving you one less thing to worry about and you’ll be making them feel helpful – a win-win!

With multifunctional equipment and a smart game plan, you can streamline your kitchen and take your hosting to the next level this holiday season. Happy cooking! ✦

Rescue Spotlight

Meet Michelangelo, a very sweet, affectionate senior pup who loves cuddles! He is a 7-year-old mutt with a beautiful brindle coat and big, gorgeous brown eyes. Michelangelo is a people person! He loves being with his favorite humans and getting all the love. He would thrive with a caring family that enjoys walks around the neighborhood followed by an afternoon nap on the couch.

Michelangelo does not like the company of other dogs and should have a slow, supervised introduction to any cats. We suspect he would do good with kids so long as they can be gentle with him. Overall, Michelangelo is an easy going older dog who would make his new family feel all the love. Michelangelo is 63 lbs., will be neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccines prior to adoption.

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

URGENT!

The Cat Rescue & Adoption Network needs foster parents to help fulfill our mission of rescuing both kittens and adult cats. Fosters are provided with all the food, bedding and litter the cat needs. We also pay all vet expenses. Your part is to give them attention and TLC – a way for you to have a pet without a lifetime commitment. If you live in the Eugene/ Springfield area and have love to spare for these kitties, please call 541-225-4955 Option 4 or visit CatRescues.org