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?
SANTA CLARA SPRINGFIELD EUGENE 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
Our Contributors
2 1 4 3 5 6 7 8
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. MICHELLE FERGUSON
Michelle Ferguson is a freelance marketing professional passionate about the performing arts and community development. Her dedication to the arts shines through in her work with Chamber Music Amici. She encourages all ages to experience the magic of music by attending live performances.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. SANDY KAUTEN
Sandy Kauten is the proud and privileged owner and publisher of Oregon Family Magazine for over 23 years now. Prior to publishing Sandy worked for Transamerica Corporation in California in Operations management and National Account Management roles. She currently lives in Eugene, Oregon with the two Oregon Family mascots, Frank (Sheepadoodle) and Lucy (Goldendoodle). During her free time, she spends an exorbitant amount of time walking, playing, and grooming said puppers, and also enjoys gardening,
cooking, leisure sports, and looking for any excuse to visit her now grown kids in Michigan and Bend.
6. TAJ BARNHART MORGAN
Taj Barnhart Morgan is the Director of Content Strategy for Travel Lane County. A journalism graduate from the University of Oregon, Taj has two decades of special event management and hospitality marketing experience in San Diego, CA and Maui, HI. Passionate about mothering, and back to her Oregon roots, she is discovering the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region all over again through the eyes of her daughter.
7. SARA STARLIN
Sara Starlin is a speech language pathologist and mother of two. She began introducing her children to the theater when they were toddlers, and her family continues to enjoy attending a variety of performances at the Hult Center including the Broadway series, Eugene Ballet Company shows, and Eugene Symphony concerts.
8. BETH STEIN
Beth Stein is the Executive Director of Nearby Nature, a non-profit nature education group in Eugene, Oregon. At Nearby Nature’s home base in Alton Baker Park she might be found teaching classes, training volunteers, telling stories, writing newsletters, managing finances, or even occasionally hopping around in a Frannie Frog costume! Beth has a B.A. in English Literature and a minor in Environmental Studies from Williams College. She lives in Eugene with her husband and cat Batman.
9. 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.
JENN SALTER, MSN RN, WAS trying to keep up with what was one of the busiest nights she could remember as house supervisor at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend when her phone rang.
The call was from the emergency department: A mom was giving birth … right now …. in front of one of the hospital’s entrances that is closed at night, and could she go see what was happening.
It turns out that Salter’s fast action resulted in her safely delivering a baby boy in a most unusual setting, but her response is also emblematic of the approach Salter and her colleagues consistently bring to their jobs when it comes to providing care to patients.
“Our caregivers, especially those who are the first to interact with our patients, often face unpredictable situations,” said Chief Hospital Executive Jim McGovern, MD. “They are also the best in their field and routinely face stressful cases such as these with compassion while applying their expertise. I am proud of the quick thinking by Jenn Salter and the others who helped in this successful and quite special delivery.
“This is just one example of how our caregivers respond on a regular basis when faced with an emergency – they humbly step up and do what needs to be done,” McGovern added.
For one of the first times that night, Salter happened to be somewhat near the daytime-only entrance for the Oregon Heart and Vascular Institute. It was one of the lucky breaks that would result in Salter delivering Onyx Brodale in the hospital breezeway on August 11 shortly before 4:30 a.m.
“I had a voice inside my head that just said, ‘run,’” Salter said of her reaction upon receiving the call. “I got to the sliding glass doors and sure enough there’s an SUV there
and the dad is clearly relieved to see me.”
China Lim, the mom-to-be, was in the front seat and the baby was already presenting when Salter arrived.
Salter put on the gloves that same voice earlier told her to grab. She leaned on her training as Onyx made his way into the world.
A couple of pushes later and it was over. It went perfectly. Everyone was healthy, and Salter handed Onyx to his mom.
Staff from the emergency department soon arrived. They clamped the umbilical cord, and the baby’s father, Parker Brodale, cut it with China and Onyx still in the front seat of their Honda CRV.
“I think we were both glad to have her there and that it wasn’t just my partner having to do it himself,” Lim said.
Salter later visited mom and baby and was glad to see both were doing well.
“I will forever be a part of this kiddo’s birth story,” she said. “It was an honor to be there.” ✦
Successful Family Pet Adoption
PREPARATION IS THE KEY TO A HAPPY TRANSITION
BY SANDY KAUTEN
Has there been more talk around the dinner table lately about adding a four-legged, furry friend to the family? Adding a new member to the family is fun and exciting, but can also be stressful and disruptive if you are not prepared for the responsibility and time commitment a family pet requires. Here are some thoughts to consider before making the adoption leap…
IS EVERYONE COMFORTABLE AROUND ANIMALS?
Some adults and kids alike are naturally afraid of animals, which may cause them to act erratically around a new pet - which in turn may confuse or upset an animal. While healthy respect for animals is important, all family members should be comfortable around the type of pet you are considering. If your child is fearful, do not force interaction; instead, show them how to properly interact, approach, and care for the pet and encourage them to participate, so they feel comfortable.
KNOW HOW TO PROPERLY TREAT AN ANIMAL
Before adopting a new pet, everyone in the family should understand how to take care of and nurture them. Dogs and cats are not toys. If an animals feel threatened or cornered, they may react defensively. Cats can also be shy and sometimes reactive, with the same considerations. Even some reptiles have special needs!
Pet adoption is not as simple as just bringing home a new addition and returning to business as usual. A new pet changes a whole lot of things!
IS EVERYONE COMMITTED TO THE IDEA?
Adopting a pet is a long-term commitment, and everyone in the family needs to be on board. Everybody loves a puppy or a baby kitty, but those grow up, and live a long time… Think ahead 10-15 YEARS and be sure your plans coincide. It’s also a great learning opportunity. Are the kids old enough and responsible enough to take on some of the tasks of caring for a pet? If not, are the parents willing and able to pick up the slack?
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
SPACE: Do you have proper space for the type of pet you are considering? Bigger dogs take up a lot more space than just their footprint. The size of your home, and yard, if you have one, are big considerations, as is location and proximity to walking and exercise. Ample inside space is important, depending on which type of animal your considering, so you are not tripping over each other. In fairness, I should also warn you about your bed. (Enough said on that from a pet owner, with a King size bed, and two large dogs).
MUTUAL FIT: There are also many different breeds to consider in finding the right mutual fit. It is wise to do some research on breeds before jumping in. Some shed, some don’t, energy level, temperament, etc. Cats are generally lower maintenance because they can be left alone for longer periods of time, but do still require love, attention, feedings, and a clean litter box.
TIME COMMITMENT: Are members of the family home to walk and feed? Will the new pet get enough attention with work and school schedules, and activity commitments? Many animals get separation anxiety when left alone for too long, and can also get bored, which can sometimes lead to unintentional destructive behaviors.
COST: Can you afford to care for your pet? Not only will there be an initial adoption cost but there is food (which can be spendy), treats, toys, accessories, vet bills, and boarding costs if you travel.
TRAINING: Dogs, in particular, come in many shapes, sizes, energy levels, and with a myriad of personalities and temperaments. Unfortunately, they don’t come with an
instruction manual. In some cases, a pet from an adoption agency may have foundational training, which is a big plus. But in almost every case, a new puppy does not, and training is on their new owner. Training is very important, time intensive, and in some cases, animal specific. It can also be expensive if additional help is needed. Responsible pet ownership includes training, always.
HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS: You should also consider if anyone in the family may have allergies, fears, or any other issues that may interfere with caring for an animal for several years.
If chosen carefully, pets are a great addition to the family because they bring many years of unconditional love, companionship, and enjoyment. On the the other hand, impulsive decisions made while strolling or social scrolling can lead to an unpleasant and sometimes unfair (to the animal) outcome. Remember, pets don’t choose you, you choose them. Some due diligence and contemplation should be first and foremost in the decision making process. ✦
FREE SUPPLIES for the Classroom and Homeschool
Movie Night
Hero vs Fatherhood
BY BONNIE L. HARRIS
THERE’S A MOMENT IN Ultraman Rising, the latest animated installment in the long-running franchise, when an overworked mom says to the hero, “Sometimes kids are like little monsters destroying everything in their path.” From then on, we know this movie isn’t necessarily about monsters, although the legendary Kaiju are wreaking havoc through Tokyo,
ULTRAMAN RISING
Netflix Animation, Rated: PG Streaming on Netflix
but it’s more about coping with monsters, real and emotional. And as our hero’s father points out, we all have to find balance. But our hero, Ken Sato, an arrogant professional baseball player, soon learns that coping with family can be stressful and overwhelming. Ken has been estranged from his father for twenty years and is called back to Japan to take on the mantle of the superhero Ultraman. But his heart isn’t it the job of being a 40 foot, laser wielding protector of Japan. When Ken accidentally comes across a hatchling Kaiju that he calls Baby, the adorable
junior monster eventually steals his heart and helps him reunite with his dad. But the Kaiju Defense Force has an evil plan to invade Kaiju Island in order to kill all the legendary monsters and they trick Baby into leading them to the mysterious location. The plot gets a little convoluted at this point and the two-hour run time tends to drag a bit, but the film recovers somewhat in Act 3 with a big fight scene in
FOR the PARENTS
Masterpiece of Friendship
THE SUPREMES AT EARL’S ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT
Searchlight Pictures, Rated: PG-13 Streaming on Hulu
REMINISCENT OF THE Secret Life of Bees and Hidden Figures, the new feature called The Supremes at Earl’s All-YouCan-Eat paints a beautiful picture of enduring friendships in a small community that eventually reveals the strength of the feminine spirit. In 1968, best friends Odette, Clarice, and Barbara Jean meet as teenagers and support each other through dating and forbidden love while trying to balance their parents’ expectations with their own dreams and fears. Behind it all is Big Earl, the owner of the local diner and a father figure who looks out for wayward kids. He befriends Barbara Jean, warns Clarice against marrying badly, and Odette meets her soulmate at his diner, which is also their refuge and a touchstone. Jump forward to 1977, then 1997, and we see how their early experiences shaped their later years. The lighthearted comedy mixes well with those tearjerker moments and punctuates a couple of
Tokyo Bay and the destruction of the KDF. Eventually, Ken grows into his role as father figure to Baby and mentor to his baseball teammates. The animation quality is adequate, but I missed a decent soundtrack, and there were several plot threads left hanging. If you have the patience to watch the credits, there’s a quick scene tipping off the sequel, but one Ultraman movie just might be enough. ✦
near death experiences. We cheer when Barbara Jean finally meets her destiny and Clarice finally confronts her two-timing husband, and maybe shed a tear when Odette finally meets her maker (but not really!). It’s an inspiring, if not a slightly corny, ending that brings the community together for one last milkshake at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat.
Learning the rules.
Best friends at Earl’s diner.
Making Theater Accessible for Kids
A GUIDE TO ENJOYING BALLET WITH YOUNG AUDIENCE MEMBERS
BY MICHELLE FERGUSON AND SARA STARLIN
AtEUGENE BALLET, THE Artistic staff is always thrilled to see young faces light up during a performance. We believe that theater should be accessible to everyone, especially children. If you’re thinking of bringing your child to a ballet performance, we have some great tips to help you prepare for a fantastic experience.
PREPARE BEFORE YOU GO
“We love seeing children in the audience, and it’s such a joy to know that we’re helping to cultivate a love for ballet from a young age.”
— Jennifer Martin, Associate Artistic Director Eugene Ballet
Preparation is key when taking children to the ballet. Start by familiarizing them with the story. Consider finding a picture book version of the story, watching videos of other companies performing it online, or watching a related movie. Playing the music beforehand and discussing the storyline can help kids connect with what they will see and hear. Since ballets typically do not include
dialogue, prepare your child by explaining that the story will be told through music and dance, without words.
When purchasing tickets, be strategic about where you sit. Calling the box office or visiting the Hult Center in person can help you find the best seats for your needs. Aisle seats, for example, can be convenient for quick bathroom breaks or when little ones need to stretch. Don’t forget to mention that you’re buying a ticket for a child— youth tickets at Eugene Ballet are just $18.
Snacks can also be a crucial part of the experience. Be sure to feed your child a snack before arriving at the Hult Center. While there are snacks available in the lobby, lines can be long, especially at intermission. Quiet snacks are best, and bringing a plastic water bottle (rather than a metal one) can prevent noisy accidents.
IS YOUR CHILD READY FOR THE BALLET?
Q: How old do children have to be to attend the ballet?
A: There’s no set age at which a child is ready to enjoy attending the ballet. Instead, consider these questions to determine if your child is prepared for the experience:
• Can my child sit quietly and enjoy a movie?
• Are they able to follow directions in a busy or crowded space?
• Do they show interest in live performances and new experiences?
• Can they wait patiently for periods of time?
If you answered yes to these questions, your child might be ready to enjoy the magic of ballet!
If your child has a short attention span, you might want to bring a busy bag filled with a quiet book, a small stuffed animal, coloring options, or other quiet activities. Please avoid electronic devices like tablets and phones, as well as items with flashing lights or noisy features, to ensure a positive experience for everyone.
ARRIVING AT THE THEATER
Make a bathroom stop before the performance begins to avoid long lines during intermission. Sensory bags are available at coat check and are equipped with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, and cue cards for sensitive audience members. Staff are trained to assist with sensory overload, and lap pads and light-blocking glasses are also available.
The Hult Center provides booster seats at the back of the theater to give children an enhanced viewing experience.
DURING THE SHOW
During the performance of Mowgli: The Jungle Book Ballet, the story’s words will
be projected above the stage. Parents are encouraged to quietly read them aloud to their children to help them follow the storyline and stay engaged.
It’s perfectly okay to leave the show early if needed. Bringing children to the theater means being flexible. It’s better to enjoy part of the performance and leave on a positive note than to stay until frustration sets in.
Intermission is a great time for a break. Encourage your children to stretch their legs, use the restroom, explore the lobby, or look into the orchestra pit. Playing a quick game of “I Spy” can also keep them entertained during this downtime.
AFTER THE SHOW
After the performance, visit the lobby to meet the dancers. They often come out to greet the audience and pose for pictures, which can be a memorable experience for children.
By following these tips, you can help create a memorable and enjoyable ballet experience for your child, setting the stage for a lifelong love of the arts. ✦
THEATER ETIQUETTE SO EVERYONE CAN ENJOY THE SHOW
• Keep feet in your own space and off the furniture.
• Stay quiet during the performance to ensure everyone can enjoy it.
• Wait until intermission to have conversations.
• Applaud when the dancers finish a dance to show your appreciation.
• Listen to the usher’s instructions as they help guide you to your seat and remind you of the rules.
A Place at (or Under) the Table
DOG-FRIENDLY ESTABLISHMENTS IN LANE COUNTY
BY TAJ BARNHART MORGAN
OVER THE SUMMER, OUR family enjoyed a little rest and relaxation on the Oregon Coast – and our eight-pound Pomeranian, Jaiya, came along with us. The miles of public coastline are made for dogs, but one of the best parts of our trip was being able to have his companionship on all our adventures from the beach to the restaurants. Since nobody, especially a dog, likes to be left behind, we’ve rounded up some dog-friendly restaurant suggestions to keep the pack together. The obvious and easiest places to dine with a dog include food truck pods and family-friendly craft breweries with outside patios or sidewalk seating. Most of these establishments welcome well-behaved, leashed pooches to their outdoor premises, and many provide water bowls (we always recommend confirming directly with each business for dog policies). But some restaurants go out of their way to include dogs.
In the heart of Historic Old Town Florence, on Bay Street, the INTERNATIONAL C-FOOD MARKET features a spacious outdoor deck overlooking the Siuslaw River (open as weather permits). Leashed dogs are
invited to join you in the shade of the table umbrellas for a bite to eat. International C-Food Market cooks up hamburger patties made without seasonings, especially for your dog! The deck has a festive yet relaxing atmosphere, sometimes with live music, and always with delicious seafood.
In Eugene, SALT + STRAW at Oakway Center knows that dogs enjoy ice cream too! Order a “pup cup” for your furry companion, a dog-friendly ice cream full of apples and carrots with sweet potato ribbons. Some owners even order an extra side of whipped cream (we don’t spoil our dogs, do we?).
PALACE COFFEE BAKERY on Pearl Street in Eugene welcomes your well-behaved dog right into the coffee shop. And while you select a treat for yourself from their array of bakery goodies, your dog is also given a little treat. Pictures of pets and their owners line the area around the ordering counter, confirming that dogs are considered part of the family here. With front sidewalk dining, a covered back patio area and inside tables for rainy day dining, this is an all-weather, dog-friendly hang out.
Up in the Cascade Mountains, the MCKENZIE GENERAL STORE &
OBSIDIAN GRILL goes all out for pets. Dogs are invited inside as well as on the patio, and there are plenty of poop bags, water bowls and organic gluten-free dog treats handed out. Polaroid snaps of furry friends are on display, and the store stocks pet supplies including organic pet food, sustainable collapsible dog bowls (ideal for your McKenzie River Trail hike) and pet-themed outdoor gear. And it’s a pretty cool scene for people, too: check out their live music line-up, organic food and friendly, fun vibes.
Over near Oakridge, stay at the pet-friendly WESTFIR LODGE AND MOUNTAIN MARKET ($20 additional per dog per night) happily situated at the trailhead for both the Alpine and North Fork trails leading to 400 miles of dog-friendly hiking. Dogs munch on treats and lap up water on the beautiful Westfir Lodge patio facing the historic Office Covered Bridge. ✦
For more pet-travel tips, check out: https://www.eugenecascadescoast.org/plan/pet-friendly-travel/
Free Compost Battery Recycling
TWO NEW SUSTAINABILITY OPPORTUNITIES ARE NOW AVAILABLE TO LANE COUNTY RESIDENTS
BY DANIEL HIESTAND
FOOD WASTE AND E-WASTE ARE BIG problems.
Fortunately, Waste Wise Lane County—a part of Lane County Waste Management—recently introduced two new programs to address both issues.
FREE COMPOST FOR HEALTHIER COUNTY COMMUNITIES
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently awarded a grant to Lane County to support the distribution of free food-waste compost to the community. The new Community Compost program will address a missing element in the current Lane County food waste reduction plan: ensuring that an increasing supply of commercially produced food-waste compost is accessible to more county residents, particularly in historically underserved communities.
The program’s compost is created from food and yard waste collected from Eugene, Springfield, and Veneta residents.
The program aims to serve all Lane County residents and agricultural producers, focusing on disadvantaged communities. Between now and 2026, the program will distribute up to 5,000 tons of free compost. Lane County residents can access free compost at eight “Free Compost Day” events.
In addition to the Free Compost Day events available to residents, organizations—including businesses, schools, community gardens, churches, and nonprofits—can sign up for free compost delivery.
“We are thrilled to introduce the program to the county,” said Maya Buelow, Lane County Waste Reduction Specialist. “Lane County provides a conducive environment for this effort, as food waste collection is already happening in Eugene, Springfield, and Veneta. Additionally, the region is popular for its home gardening and largerscale agricultural opportunities, so it’s a natural fit.”
Visit lanecountyor.gov/compost for more information.
LANE COUNTY WASTE REDUCTION OUTREACH COORDINATOR
RECYCLE YOUR BATTERIES AT BI-MART
This past spring, Lane County-based Bi-Mart stores launched a 12-month pilot program that will provide households with a convenient and accessible way to safely recycle their batteries.
The initiative—which will effectively retrain the public on properly identifying and responsibly managing a new generation of batteries—is supported by a $6,000 grant provided by Lane County.
Project funding will help Bi-Mart train its employees on battery identification and safe handling, purchase containers for battery collection, storage, and shipping, and market program information and educational materials for its customers.
The pilot program accepts many single-use batteries, including widely used button and coin cell batteries and most rechargeable batteries.
Alkaline batteries should go in the trash.
Buelow said battery recycling is vital for many reasons. For one, batteries contain many metals needed for lithium-ion battery production—which is critical for electric vehicle adoption, among other things.
“Additionally, improper battery disposal can create health and safety risks, including fires that damage critical waste management infrastructure and put folks at risk,” Buelow said. “This partnership will make battery recycling much easier and more accessible for Lane County residents.”
For a list of all the participating Bi-Mart stores, visit lanecountyor.gov/hazwaste ✦
Resources for teaching sustainability
Be Safe, Be Kind, Be Curious…
BY BETH STEIN
It’sA SCARY WORLD out there these days. And not just because ghosts and goblins rule in October. From angry people who do actual harm to the unending war of words that bombards us, it’s not a pretty world we’re raising our children in.
At Nearby Nature we often find ourselves thinking things would be much better if people would just follow our three simple rules: be safe, be kind, and be curious.
For kids, rules are an everyday fact of life. And for good reason. Children are precious, and as we say at Nearby Nature, the most important thing is - everyone comes back with all their arms and legs attached!
But rules can also be confusing, hard to remember, too numerous, or imposed without context. You probably remember this from your own childhood. When rules aren’t fair or well thought out, kids ignore them, make bad choices, and suffer the consequences.
The beauty of Nearby Nature’s simple rules (which by the way are up for adoption!), is that they can be expanded upon when necessary — for example, an instructor might say, “Today BE SAFE means we’re gonna stay to the right on the bike path” — or they can simply be a lens through which we challenge kids to evaluate their actions independently. “Was it KIND when I stomped on that spider?”
“Was I being CURIOUS when I refused to try that new game?”
“Was it SAFE when I didn’t drink any water on our long summer hike?”
When kids are asked to think about, rather than mechanically follow rules, they’re much more likely to take personal responsibility for their actions and maybe not need quite so much reminding to be safe, kind, and curious next time around. While be safe, be kind, and be curious are particularly good rules for exploring the outdoors with kids, they can be equally well used at home. Is it safe to leave your pokey Legos all over the floor? Is it kind to call your sister a toad? Are you being curious when you refuse to take even one teeny-tiny taste of your vegetable soup? The list goes on! Now, if only adults could take a look through that same safe, kind, and curious lens. Imagine if we all made choices that were SAFE for our communities, used words that were KIND, and were CURIOUS about people who don’t look or live like we do? That feels like a recipe for a world that wouldn’t feel quite so scary as the one we live in right now. ✦
For some safe, kind, and curious seasonal fun, join us at Nearby Nature’s annual Haunted Hike in Alton Baker Park on October 19th. There you’ll safely meet our costumed night critters (who are more kind than scary) and leave curious to learn more! Find more info in Oregon Family Magazine’s online calendar.
A Dad’s Eye View
No Problem with Witches
BY RICK EPSTEIN
I’M NOT USUALLY extravagant, but last October I spent $40 on big wiggly rubber creatures. My 4-year-old, Wendy, was having trouble with things of a spooky nature and I figured these costly Halloween gifts might help. The cornucopia of creepiness included a lanky rubber skeleton, a flappy bat and a black rat that must’ve weighed two pounds. They were all made of that heavy, fleshy kind of rubber that always feels moist.
When I pulled the red-eyed rat out of the bag, Wendy yelled, “Hey!” and backed away.
“These are your Halloween pets,” I told her, emptying the bag. “They’re just toys for you to play with. They won’t hurt you, and they’re fun.”
Inside of 10 minutes she had developed a game in which the skeleton was her child (named Skeletee) and the other two –Battum and Princess (the rat) – were Skeletee’s cousins. The toys enjoyed a long season as her favorite playthings. Princess and Battum eventually sank out of sight and out of mind to the bottom of the toy box and Skeletee’s spinal column parted, and their season passed. But whenever Wendy is about to be scared by bones or bats or rats, she is reminded of her old friends.
Watching the skeleton dancers in an old DVD of Disney’s “Hunchback of Notre Dame,” Wendy said to her mom: “Look! It’s Skeletee’s family!”
In the past year, Wendy has
taken charge of her own fears.
The other night I was telling her a bedtime story, stealing freely from any source I could think of: “....and suddenly, just as the witch was about to—”
“DON’T SAY THAT WORD!” Wendy objected.
“Oh! Sorry,” I said.
“Just as the
WHANGDOODLE was about to lock Hansel in a cage, a house came falling out of the sky and landed on her.”
“That’s better,” said Wendy, in the prim tone of someone who has forced a rude child to say “please.” Wendy does not allow her attendants to use any of these words: witch, ghost, bat, monster or wolf. We are under orders to substitute the word “whangdoodle.” The silly word takes the edge off the scariness, and she can cope. She is good at knowing just how scared she
When Wendy and her big sisters wanted me to borrow the classic movie “The Wizard of Oz,” I resisted, remembering
showing them the movie would expose a major source for my bedtime-story plagiarism.)
When I was a kid watching that movie with my brothers, whenever the witch came on, we’d run up into the far end of the living-room of our split-level house and watch the TV from a safe 50 feet away. The screen was little more than a flickering spot, and even the monumental scariness of Margaret Hamilton’s Wicked Witch was brought down to manageable proportions. That technique wouldn’t work for my kids because our house is not built that way, and a terrified Munchkin couldn’t retreat more than 20 feet from
the TV set. But my wife said, “Go ahead and get the movie. Wendy can handle it. You’ll see.”
And when the Wicked Witch appeared, Wendy yelled, “Quick! Cover my eyes!”
It was part of her elaborate fear-management system. At night she requires that a nightlight and a 14-watt fluorescent lamp remain on all night in her room. Her candlepower requirements are as specific as those the state Department of Education has for classrooms.
I’ve read a theory that girls in industrialized nations are reaching puberty early because it’s triggered by exposure to a certain number of hours of illumination, and their bodies don’t differentiate between sunlight and electric light. I see sleeping Wendy basking in all that light and I’m afraid that by morning she’ll be wanting something pierced.
Besides the lights, she requires that her closet door be secured so that nothing bad can emerge. The door to her room must be open so that in case of trouble she can escape.
The effectiveness of Wendy’s fear-management system depends upon constant vigilance and strict enforcement. But Wendy never eases up because she knows what could happen. A forbidden word is spoken, a lamp is turned off, the wrong door is left open – and somebody gets eaten. “Sorry” won’t help THEN, will it? ✦
Rick can be reached at rickepstein@yahoo.com.
DEAR EARTHTALK
Is it true that bee populations are healthier in and around organic farms than elsewhere and if so, why?
— MARTIN MASON, ST. LOUIS, MO
CCORDING
TO experts from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, bees are responsible for a third of the world’s food production. Flowering plants, which make up about 75 percent of agricultural crops, depend on pollinators like bees for seed production, thus ensuring the success of future crop generations. Concerningly, this critical insect faces a multitude of health threats.
Bees are mainly threatened by constant exposure to synthetic pesticides.
The Varroa mite, which feeds on the blood and bodies of bees, affects nearly every hive in the U.S. As such, colonies untreated by either organic or non-organic
Starting in 2006, the rate of Colony Collapse Disorder—the sudden flight of honey bees from seemingly healthy hives—has drastically increased
Neonicotinoids, for example, are common insecticides that affect the receptors in a bee’s nervous system. Consuming the nectar of treated plants, even in small amounts, can impair bees’ motor skills and foraging behaviors. Other conventional insecticides including diazinon, acephate and pyrethrin are also correlated with declining bee health. Regardless of whether farms use synthetic pesticides, pests and pathogens such as Deformed Wing Virus are constant threats to bee health.
and promote integrated pest management (IPM) techniques such as crop rotation which improves upon natural biodiversity. Organic farms also tend to implement more cover crops and multi-functional insectary hedge rows, benefitting bees nutritionally.
Bee populations are healthier in and around organic farms as compared to other locales in agricultural, suburban and urban areas.
beehive-specific pesticides can expect to survive for three years maximum against infestation before collapse.
Farming monocultures also pose a threat to pollinators, as the nutritional makeup of nectar and pollen varies between crops. When bees are exposed to a single crop, they can suffer from malnutrition and weakened immune systems. Monocultures also tend to be heavily affected by parasites.
to 31 percent of hives annually. Experts haven’t yet identified a singular cause, rates trend lower on farms that meet the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) National Organic Program standards, suggesting that organic farms may be healthiest for their pollinators. Primarily, bees inhabiting organic farms are exposed to fewer toxic substances; USDA’s organic standards prohibit the majority of synthetic pesticides
While nationwide all-organic polycultures may be economically infeasible, techniques such as implementing hedge-rows can promote bee health even when coupled with synthetic pesticides. Ultimately, however, an absence of toxic chemicals provides the greatest health benefits; as such, bee populations tend to be healthier in and around organic farms as opposed to conventional farms. ✦
CONTACTS: Alphonse Avitable, co-author of The Beekeeper’s Handbook; British Ecological Society, https://besjournals. onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/13652664.13447
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
Rescue Spotlight
ROWDY is a well-rounded, active dog who would make a great addition to a loving family. He has cutest under bite giving him an amazing smile, is playful, and so snuggly! After getting some zoomies out he loves to crawl into your lap ready for cuddles. He loves playing with other dogs chomping on treats.
BUTTERCUP is pure love who promises to spread joy to all she meets! She’s a very snuggly gal who enjoys lounging in the sun and going for long walkies. If you are looking for a cuddle buddy to lay on the couch and watch movies with you, she’s your gal! You is looking to be the queen of her castle and have all your attention.
9-month-old Lop Eared Rabbit WINONA is a gorgeous girl who is very social and friendly! She enjoys running through tunnels, playing with toys, and getting head scratches. She is a sweet girl who is brave and confident as she explores her new surroundings.
Meet WACKY , a bearded dragon looking to join a family! He is full of personality and really enjoys watching everyone as they walk by. He is very charismatic and charming! Would make a wonderful companion to anyone who is home often and looking for a buddy to spend time with.
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. Adoption meet and greets are every day from 11am - 4pm. Bring any current dogs in the home for the appointment. Cats, dogs, and rabbits are spayed/neutered, microchipped, up to date on vaccines, have a certificate for a free veterinary exam, and has post-adoption support from our team.
MOCHA - An extra-large black-and-white tuxedo adult male kitty about 4 yrs old. Initially shy but transforms into an affectionate, purring, love-bug once he feels at ease. Very intelligent, playful, and bonds well with other cats. Prefers calm environment. Excellent companion for a multi-cat household with cat-savvy kids.
WETZEL - A fluffy golden tabby adult male kitty about 4 years old. Perfect mix of playful and couch potato. Shy with strangers, but he warms up quickly. Loves treats, gentle pets, and an active home where he gets lots of attention. Likely best as an only cat with an adopter experienced w/ longhaired cats.
MISS CINNAMON (fluffy gray tabby) and JACK (black and white tuxedo) - A bonded pair of 6-yr-old kitties. Jack is outgoing and gregarious, while Miss Cinnamon will honor you with her affection once she feels comfortable with you. They both love to climb and explore. Will do best in a quiet home with a patient adopter.
MAMA CC - A beautiful, sleek 1-yr-old female black panther kitty with gorgeous golden eyes. She is very friendly, and loves pets. She is quick to purr if she’s enjoying herself and will chirp to say hello. Truly appreciates a safe and loving home. She enjoys kids, dogs, and other cats.
MAMACITA (a 3-yr-old calico) and BEAU (her 1-yr-old son) - A marvelous mother and son bonded pair. Both still shy and will need an environment that is quiet and safe. Both are very sweet, and it will be so worthwhile to give them some time to adjust to their surroundings.
JUSTICE (black panther) & FREEDOM (tuxedo) - A bonded pair of 1 ½ yr old brothers. These two are very intelligent and playful, but are scared of loud noises and will thrive will thrive in a calm, quiet environment. Given time to acclimate they will blossom into loving and entertaining companions.
To meet these and other cats, please call 541-225-4955 option 1, or visit our website at CatRescues.org for more info.
ROWDY
WINONA
WACKY BUTTERCUP
JACK
MISS CINNAMON
MAMA CC
MAMACITA & BEAU
JUSTICE & FREEDOM
MOCHA WETZEL
Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits
In this month’s special pet issue, we’re excited to share a treat that’s sure to make your furry friend’s tail wag with joy! As pet lovers, we all enjoy pampering our pups with homemade goodies, and these peanut butter dog biscuits are the perfect way to show them just how much we care. Simple to make and deliciously satisfying, this recipe will have your dog feeling like the most special member of the family.
INGREDIENTS
• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup peanut butter (unsweetened and free of xylitol)
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup water (add more if needed for dough consistency)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the flour, peanut butter, and egg in a large bowl. Gradually add water until the mixture forms a firm dough.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into shapes using cookie cutters.
4. Place the biscuits on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Let them cool before serving to your furry friend.
These biscuits can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks or frozen for longer storage. Yields 20 small dog biscuits. For larger bones, double recipe and adjust cooking time.
