Oregon Family Magazine

SUMMER CAMP DIRECTORY 2023

BENEFITS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC

GARAGE SALE TIPS AND TRICKS

RAISING A SPIRITED CHILD

(Salsa,

refried beans, taco seasoning, a choice of chicken or beef, Roma tomatoes, mixed onions, black olives and cheddar cheese.)

Why your preteen needs the HPV vaccine

BY PILAR BRADSDHAW, M.D., F.A.A.P. EUGENE PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES

IfYOU HAVE A CHILD who is between the ages of 9-12 years old, there’s a simple step you can take to protect them from cancer: vaccinate them against human papillomavirus (HPV).

WHAT IS HPV?

HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States and it causes virtually all cervical cancer cases, as well as other types of cancer that affect both females and males.

HPV is highly transmissible and spreads by any skin-to-skin contact (not just sexual intercourse). Three out of 4 adults in the U.S. will contract HPV by the time they are 30 and most don’t know they are carrying the virus because it’s often asymptomatic.

It is estimated that nearly 50,000 people will be diagnosed with HPV-caused cancer this year and the virus is linked to over 7,000 deaths annually from cancers of the cervix, vagina, penis, anus, head and neck. Countless more people undergo painful medical procedures to try to remove pre-cancerous lesions caused by this virus.

WHY PEDIATRICIANS RECOMMEND THE HPV VACCINE FOR KIDS

The HPV vaccine was first approved in the U.S. in 2006 and has extensive medical research showing it to be safe and effective. Unfortunately, most counties in Oregon have low rates of HPV vaccination.

The two-dose vaccine is most effective when given to preteens, whose bodies produce more antibodies to this shot than older adolescents and adults. This also ensures that kids are protected from

cancer before they are exposed to the virus, which is the best way to help keep them safe.

HOW EFFECTIVE IS THE HPV VACCINE?

The current version of the vaccine prevents nine strains of HPV that are known to cause cancer and research suggests the vaccine has already had a dramatic public health impact.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, in the mid-2000s, 11.5% of teenage girls carried at least one HPV strain. That figure dropped to 1.8% a decade later and a recent study in the American Cancer Society Journals found a 65% drop in cervical cancer incidence during 2012 through 2019 among women in their early 20s, the first cohort to receive the HPV vaccine.

Please immunize your children against this potentially deadly cancer-causing virus. The HPV vaccine is safe and effective and proven to save lives. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to talk with your pediatrician. ✦

Our Contributors

Oregon Family Magazine is distributed monthly, year-round via direct mail in the greater Lane County area, and at over 150 high-traffic commercial locations. For information regarding Every Door Direct Mail, please visit www.dmachoice.org or www.optoutprescreen.com.

PUBLISHER

Pacific Parents Publishing

EDITOR

Sandy Kauten

GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT

Springer Design & Illustration

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. PILAR BRADSHAW, M.D., F.A.A.P.

Dr. Pilar Bradshaw practices the full spectrum of pediatric medicine, seeing patients from birth to young adulthood. Named as 1 of 7 “Favorite Pediatricians” by Parents magazine, she believes in the ability of parents to embrace the joys and challenges of raising children.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. REBECCA HASTINGS

Rebecca is a former teacher who is passionate about authenticity, faith, and family. Her books are available on Amazon and she has been featured on sites such as The Washington Post and Parents. In real life, she can often be found typing words, driving her kids places, or wherever there is chocolate. Connect with her at RebeccaHastings.net and on Instagram.

6. 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.

7. 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

ADVERTISING

Sandy Kauten • 541.683.7452 sandy@oregonfamily.com

Christi Kessler • 541.484.0434 christi@oregonfamily.com

OREGON FAMILY MAGAZINE

P.O. Box 21732 • Eugene, OR 97402 541.683.7452

Email: info@oregonfamily.com

Web: www.oregonfamily.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/OregonFamily

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1993

Opinions expressed by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily the opinions of, nor an endorsement by this publication.

© 2023 Pacific Parents Publishing. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without prior expressed written consent from Pacific Parents Publishing.

What is “red tide” and is it caused by pollution or human activity?

— TAMARA G., LOS ANGELES, CA

RED TIDE IS A phenomenon that occurs when algae in the ocean reproduce rapidly and create a large concentration of red pigments in the water, giving it a reddishbrown hue. These algae, also known as harmful algal blooms (HABs), can produce toxins that are harmful to marine life, including fish, shellfish, and mammals like dolphins and whales. Red tides can also pose a threat to human health if people consume contaminated seafood or come into contact with the water.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), red tides are a natural occurrence that happens in coastal waters all over the world. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including changes in water temperature, salinity and nutrient levels. However, some human activities, such as pollution and nutrient runoff from fertilizers, can exacerbate the growth of harmful algae and contribute to the frequency and severity of red tide events.

One of the primary nutrients that can contribute to red tide is nitrogen, which is commonly found in fertilizers

and sewage. As Dr. David Anderson, a researcher at the University of WisconsinMadison who studies harmful algal blooms, explains, “when excess nutrients, especially nitrogen, are added to coastal waters from sources like sewage treatment plants and

balance of the local ecosystem and create conditions that are favorable for red tides to occur. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, human activities that can increase the likelihood and severity of red tide include nutrient pollution, shoreline

to the growth of harmful algae. As Dr. Anderson notes, “reducing nutrient pollution is key to mitigating the impact of harmful algal blooms, and we need to do more to address this problem.”

agricultural runoff, they can trigger explosive growth of certain algae species that produce toxins.”

In addition to nutrient pollution, other human activities can contribute to the spread of harmful algal blooms. For example, boats and ships can carry invasive species of algae and other marine organisms from one area to another, which can disrupt the

development that alters water flow, and the release of exotic species.

While red tide is a natural phenomenon, it is clear that human activities can contribute to its frequency and severity. To mitigate the impact of harmful algal blooms on marine life and human health, it is important to reduce nutrient pollution and other forms of environmental degradation that can contribute

If you come into contact with red tide contaminated water, you could develop skin irritation on affected body parts and/or a cough/ congestion due to breathing in contaminated fumes. Experts recommend washing off with soap and warm water and heading inside to an air-conditioned space. And if you eat shellfish affected by red tide’s “brevotoxins” you could come down with Neurotoxic Shellfish Poisoning which can lead to gastrointestinal problems and a reversal of hot and cold sensitivity—if you are worried about something you ate and encounter any of these symptoms, seek medical help ASAP. ✦

CONTACTS: What Is a Red Tide? https:// oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/redtide.html; About Red Tides In Florida, https://myfwc. com/research/redtide/general/about/

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

Red tide may be a naturally occurring phenomenon, but it is likely exacerbated by all the pollution and fertilizer flowing off our land.

PHOTO: HAN LEI PHOTO, FLICKRCC.

HOW MY

Spirited Child

MADE ME A BETTER MOM

BY CHERYL MAGUIRE

While reading an article on the Internet, I discovered the book Raising Your Spirited Child by Mary Sheedy Kurcinka. I wish I knew about it eleven years ago when my spirited daughter was born. I learned a lot of the techniques of how to parent a spirited child by trial and error. I never knew there was a positive classification for her personality.

CCORDING TO THE BOOK a spirited child is defined as, “a child who is more intense, persistent, sensitive and perceptive than the average child”. Kurchinka coined the term spirited when she was looking for information regarding her son, she only came across words like difficult, strongwilled or stubborn. She felt framing the description of her child using a positive word, such as spirited, would help her to focus on her child’s strengths.

When I was in graduate school earning a degree in counseling psychology, I remember a professor saying to me, “You will learn the most from challenging cases.” This comment has stayed with me throughout the years. After reading this book I couldn’t help but think of how I became both a better parent and a better person from knowing my daughter.

DETERMINATION

In the book, Kurchinka states spirited children are persistent. She points out that this is can be considered a positive characteristic and gave examples of people such as Martin Luther King or the Wright brothers who were persistent. However, it can also lead to power struggles with your child. The key is to use positive words like committed, decisive or I prefer the word determined.

My daughter is the most determined person I have ever met. She learned how to ride a bicycle in three days, at age five, mostly on her own. She spent every moment of those three days attempting this skill. It didn’t matter how many times she fell or how many scrapes and bruises she received, she got back on her bicycle until she could ride it without falling.

She used the same amount of determination while learning to play the piano. One day she decided she wanted to learn how to play and

instead of asking for lessons she looked up YouTube videos of how to play the piano. She spent the next week practicing the same song over and over. By the end of the week, everyone in the family was amazed at her ability to play the song which she learned entirely on her own.

When I see her willingness to go after her goals despite any obstacles she may encounter, I can’t help but feel motivated to do the same with my goals. When I’m feeling frustrated I merely envision her riding the bicycle or playing the piano and realize I can’t give up.

CURIOSITY

Spirited children often are perceptive. Kurchinka states, “their senses are keen, drawing in every aspect of stimulation around them.” She then mentions how this ability helps the child to have creative thoughts.

In my daughter’s case, her perceptiveness has led to curiosity which caused some interesting moments when she was younger and seemed to get into everything. One time she grabbed the diaper cream without me knowing it. I only realized it when I found it smeared all over the couch.

She is always interested in how things work and asks lots of questions or tries to figure it out on her own as was the case with playing the piano. Seeing her attempt new experiences has caused me to try activities I might normally never consider such as an alternative fitness class or reading a different book genre. Normally I’m a shy person who doesn’t willingly take risks. When I see my daughter attempting something like climbing a rock wall I can’t help but feel inspired to try new things as well.

PATIENCE

When you are the parent of a spirited child you are going to encounter temper tantrums. Kurchinka even devotes an entire chapter about tantrums in her book. She states, “all kids throw tantrums, but spirited children do it with much more pizzazz, finesse, and frequency.”

Over the years I developed patience and understanding for my daughter’s tantrums which has resulted in a decrease in her behavior. Patience was required for my daughter’s curiosity such as the example above where she decorated the couch with diaper cream. Patience is necessary with regard to her persistence which does result in power struggles especially as she gets older. My patience has helped me in dealing with other areas of my life such as waiting for customer service or interacting with my other children.

EMPATHY

Kurchinka notes, “sensitive spirited kids feel emotions, see sights, hear sounds, and smell odors to a degree that most of us mortals will never know.”

At times this translates to a lot of crying especially when my daughter was younger. I can now identify when she is feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated and needs to be in a more quiet, less stimulating environment when this occurs. I feel empathic toward her experience.

My favorite aspect of this trait is how she loves to help others or make other people feel special. On mother’s day, she always showers me with various homemade gifts and baked goods. She truly loves making me breakfast in bed.

During teacher conferences, her fifth-grade teacher told me at the end of every day my daughter makes a point to say thank you for teaching her. She said in her fifteen years of being a teacher she never encountered a student who did this, yet this simple act made her feel appreciated.

LOVING THE SPIRIT

Even though being the parent of a spirited child can be challenging, I have loved every moment of it (not just because she is my daughter either). My daughter has helped me to accomplish my goals, try new experiences, and most importantly appreciate others. ✦

MAKE MOM FEEL SPECIAL ON Mother’s Day

BY REBECCA HASTINGS

MOTHER’S DAY is the perfect time to shower some love on the moms in your life, whether it’s the mom of your children, your mom, or someone special whom you want to recognize. While every gift is special, you can use this as an opportunity to think about specific ways to make mom feel seen and appreciated.

START HERE

Think about her. Truly. There are endless gift ideas out there and that can feel overwhelming. Often, we end up buying something because it seems like what everyone is telling us to do (or it was easy!) Before you make a purchase spend a little time thinking about whom you are giving the gift to and ask yourself these questions:

• What makes her smile?

• What do I see her looking at in stores or on her phone?

• How can I make her feel special?

• Does she have a favorite thing or hobby that she rarely makes time for?

• What is something she wouldn’t do for herself?

As you think about these questions, really focus on her. If you’re not sure, as some of the people she is close to like a good friend or her sister. Even older kids and teens can lend valuable insight. Remember, making her feel seen and understood means focusing on her instead of what you think she needs.

SHOP EARLY IF YOU CAN

Mother’s Day is not a surprise. The sooner you start thinking about this and shop, the better. April is a great time to shop because it takes the last-minute stress out of the equation. If you didn’t start early, however, there are still so many great options. And make things easier next year by putting a reminder on your phone now for shopping next April.

THINK BEYOND THE GIFT

Mother’s Day is more than a gift. It’s a day. Think about how you want to be intentional about celebrating her. Would she like breakfast in bed or would she prefer to sleep in? Is she hoping for a day with the kids or would some time to herself be appreciated?

You can ask her questions like this, but avoid simply saying “What do you want to do?” Many moms are uncomfortable saying what they truly want. Plus, asking that makes it one more thing for her to figure out. And she definitely doesn’t need that.

A lot of moms will appreciate and benefit from a combination of time to themselves and time with the family. That could look like a family hike and then some time for her to nap and read. Maybe she would enjoy some time going shopping alone and coming home to a nice family dinner. Another great idea is to take her to breakfast with the kids and then drop her off for a massage that you’ve already scheduled for that day. The less she has to figure out and plan the better.

CREATIVE GIFT IDEAS

To help you get started, here are some fun, creative ideas for gifts that moms love and why they are great.

For the book lover: ONCE UPON A BOOK CLUB offers a creative approach to a book subscription service. Each box contains a book along with 3-5 wrapped gifts for her to open at different points in the book. She will love discovering fun gifts as she reads that will remind her of the story long after she is done reading. You can purchase single boxes or monthly and quarterly subscriptions.

For the puzzler: JIGGY offers art in puzzle form. One of Oprah’s favorite things, these specially crafted puzzles are fun to put together and come with glue to preserve the beautiful artwork when completed. Plus, JIGGY offers special holiday and seasonal gift boxes to enhance

the puzzle experience with extras like chocolate or luxury bath items.

For the foodie: Make her life extra tasty with a gift or gift card from GOLDBELLY . A gourmet food market with gifts from around the country, she can have something special delivered right to her door. From making dinner easier with a prepared lobster dinner from Maine or BBQ straight from Texas to a special Ina Garten cake or macarons from Paris, there are tasty treats she will love.

For the coffee/tea drinker: Few things keep a mom going like her morning cup of coffee or tea. Make hers special with a tea subscription from TEA RUNNERS offering her gourmet loose teas in a variety of flavors. If coffee on the run is more her style, STEEPED COFFEE offers specialty roasts in single-serve brew bags that taste great and help the planet.

For the mom that needs to relax: Every mom could use a little relaxation in her life, and you can find special gifts that help her do just that. Luxury candles like those from NOA LUX or OPAL ROAD are special choices she probably wouldn’t splurge on for herself. Plus, both companies are woman-owned, a sweet bonus. If she needs a little more help, PURE ENRICHMENT offers lush heated blankets and aromatherapy, to help her let it all go.

For the organizer: If order and organization bring a smile to her face, try leveling up her planner and paper products. IVORY PAPER CO and GRADO offer beautiful journals, planners, and stationery to make keeping track of things easier and inspiring.

THE KEY TO SUCCESS

Remember, Mother’s Day isn’t about being perfect. It is about celebrating the mom in your life and making her feel special. Make it about her, shop early, and plan the day to give her a Mother’s Day she won’t forget! ✦

2023 SUMMER CAMPS

541-343-5100

www.emfc.org

Camp Wilani

Summer Camp

July 19th - September 1st, 2023

Day Camp

Mini Camp

Resident Camp Family Camp

At Camp Wilani, caring adult mentors connecting youth to the outdoors, one another, and themselves!

Fun and inclusive programs for youth 6-17 years of age.

EMFC U11-19 Tryouts for Premier & Competitive Teams

Players born in 2013-2005 • May 9-13

EMFC Junior Academy Tryouts

Players born 2016-2014 • May 16 and May 18

EMFC Discovery Tryouts

Players born 2013-2010 • May 15 and May 17

EMFC Summer Camps

Kids age 6-15

EMFC Little Metro Summer Academy 1 and 2

Coming in July/Aug

Camp: for Adults!

The Fa Renewal Yoga and Meditation Retreat

at Camp Wilani

Camp Wilani

Easy Online Registration: wilanicouncil.org

Summer Camps

Multi-Sport experiences, where learned abilities, desires, competencies, competitiveness, and confidence help children to develop a robust FUNdamental foundation for an active life. Active healthy kids become active healthy adults.

K – 5th grade half-day camp: 9am – 12noon

1st – 5th grade full-day camp: 9am – 4pm 6th – 8th grade half-day camp: 1pm – 4pm

Week-long Themed Camps

Starting June 26th, and running through the week of July 31st

Please visit https://kidsports.org/event-type/camps-clinics/

JenniferJamieson LibbyCox

September 29th - October 1st, 2023

Enjoy yoga and meditation for all levels with the added fun of summer camp! Canoeing, archery, low ropes, swimming, crafts, campfires and more! Meals, lodging, all yoga offerings and activities included! Licensed massage therapists available for an additional fee.

Easy Online Registration: wilanicouncil.org

“Where you are free to be a kid”

Activities include: games, swimming, arts and crafts.

REGISTER NOW!

• Summer Daze (ages 4-5)

• Adventure Camp (grades 1-5)

• Middle School Camps (grades 6-8)

• Gymnastics Camp (ages 6-12)

• Sports Camp (ages 6-14)

• Lego Camp (ages 5-12)

541-688-4052 • www.rrpark.org

1400 Lake Drive, Eugene

RIVER ROAD PARK DISTRICT

YOUR GUIDE TO A SUCCESSFUL

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW TO GET RID OF UNWANTED STUFF

BY KIMBERLY BLAKER

ARE YOUR GARAGE, BASEMENT, and closets overflowing from the heaps of stuff you’ve been saving ‘just in case?’ If so, it may be time to put those languishing piles to good use—in someone else’s home. Rummage sales are a great way to clear out, recycle, and make some extra cash. Follow these suggestions for a successful sale and a clutterfree home.

THE STOREFRONT

A garage is usually the best place to hold a sale offering shelter and requiring little daily set up and tear down. If your garage is hard to access, hidden from view, or contains valuables that can’t be easily hidden, use a covered porch, patio, or your yard. Be sure to have plenty of tarps available to protect your goods from rain and for covering at the end of the day

ALL IN THE TIMING

Plan your sale when temperatures are between 60 to 90 degrees outdoors. Typically, the best days to hold sales are Thursdays through Sundays, with Fridays and Saturdays bringing the most traffic. Mornings bring the most significant flow of shoppers, and the earlier you’re ready, the better. If you open by 7:30 or 8:00 a.m., rummagers will flock.

DISPLAYING YOUR WARES

Don’t heap your merchandise on tables or leave it in boxes to be ransacked. While some don’t mind digging through messy stacks, most people won’t bother.

Hang as much clothing as possible. Use a laundry pole or portable closet, or install two support brackets and a closet rod. You can also support a rail between two stepladders. If you only have a few clothing items, a clothesline will do.

Plenty of table space is also a must. Borrow folding tables, and if you run out, make a table by resting a sheet of plywood over sawhorses, or prop spare planks of wood between chairs. Keep all but big items off the floor for better visibility.

Neatly fold and stack clothing that can’t be hung on tables, and label stacks according to size. Organize good toys and complete sets where parents and grandparents will easily spot them. Set up a ‘guys’ table with hand tools, gadgets, electronics, and home repair items. Then place small articles such as jewelry in divider containers or egg cartons, so they’re easy to view.

One exception to the disorderly rule is for small toys. Stick all these little goodies in boxes on the ground where young children can dig for treasures to take home. Label boxes according to the price per item or allow kids to choose one as a prize.

Finally, make sure batteries and electricity are available so you can show shoppers that items are in working condition.

NEXT TO NEW SELLS

Appearance plays a big roll in the sale of used goods and how much they can bring. Wash and dry all clothing and linens, then fold or hang immediately to prevent wrinkles. Wash dust, dirt, and grime from toys, tools, and household items. Also, repair broken merchandise when feasible.

PRICED TO SELL

Don’t overprice, or you’ll end up packing up nearly as much as you started with. For big items, look through classified ads or on eBay for average resale prices. But if you check eBay, keep in mind that eBay pricing often isn’t comparable to what people will pay at a garage sale. Some top quality items in like-new condition can bring 25 to 35 % of the replacement cost at rummage sales. Occasionally, tools, equipment, and other things in small supply can be priced higher and sell for 50% to 60% of replacement cost, depending on age and condition. Most used merchandise will bring 5 to 10% of replacement cost at best.

ADVERTISING

Newspaper classified ads or Craigslist, as well as the more popular online garage sale locator websites, usually bring the best results. The exception is if you live on a main street or a heavily traveled highway. In your ad, be sure to include your address and main cross streets, dates and time of your sale, and what you’ll be selling. List big items individually as well as the categories of things you’ll sell, like “tools” or “toddler clothing.”

Also, post fliers on the grocery store or laundromat bulletin boards. If there are no regulations against doing so, posting signs on nearby corners is a must. Don’t forget to put a bright sign in front of your house, too. Balloons tied to your mailbox or a tree can also make your sale more visible.

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

The bigger the sale, the more traffic you’ll get. Go in with family, friends, and neighbors and hold one big sale rather than several small ones.

Hold a street or subdivision-wide sale. This will draw people from surrounding areas.

Move big items such as furniture or appliances into the driveway to attract passersby.

Finally, have your items priced. Many people will walk away from a sale with nothing when things aren’t priced. They don’t want to make an offer that’s too low and might offend you. They also don’t want the hassle of having to ask the price for every little thing they might consider buying. ✦

Important Family Lessons

BY BONNIE L. HARRIS

AMYTHICAL

CREATURE, A WOUNDED boy, and a very eccentric grandfather come together in the new Netflix feature called Chupa. Short for chupacabra, this story takes its name from the recently contrived Mexican folklore legend about a night creature who steals the blood

CHUPA

26th Street Pictures

Rated: PG

Streaming on Netflix

of goats. But that’s where the similarities end because director Jonas Cuaron takes the legend and spins a sweet tale about a 13-year-old boy’s first visit to a ranch in Mexico to meet his grandfather and two cousins. Young Alex lost his father the year before, but he hides his grief behind playing video games. When he meets his grandfather, he immediately senses that abuelo is hiding something too. But his younger cousin, Memo, can’t hide his enthusiasm for lucha libre, or professional wrestling, because their grandfather used to be

famous in the wrestling ring. Lena, Alex’s older cousin, tries to teach him to take chances and appreciate his family. But it isn’t until Alex discovers a cub-sized chupacabra hiding in abuelo’s barn that he begins to put down the video games and pick up the memories of his lost father. Chupa has also lost his family and Alex promises to help while bringing Memo and Lena into the adventure. Of course, grandfather already knows about Chupa and dons his lucha libre costume one more time to defeat

FOR the PARENTS

Game On!

CHAMPIONS

Focus Features, Rated: PG-13

Streaming on Amazon Prime

SIMILAR TO Bad New Bears, The Mighty Ducks, and McFarland USA, the new feature called Champions recycles the familiar sports story of a down-and-out coach who finds redemption by helping a group of misfit athletes achieve their dream of winning a title. Unfortunately, Champions could have been a heart-warming and charming film if it weren’t for the raunchy comedy that seriously pushes the PG-13 envelope. It gets a cheer, however, for utilizing under-appreciated actors with learning disabilities and for revealing the varied and rewarding lives they lead. And it gets a gold star for not sugar coating the prejudice that people and families living with special needs must endure. There are several memorably funny scenes when Coach Marcus bonds with his athletes on the basketball court, when he gets an especially aromatic player to finally take a shower, and when an outdoor pick-up game reveals the team’s

a government scientist who’s determined to capture Chupa for experiments. The narrative is fairly predictable, but the mix of Spanish and English, myth and legend, lost families and found courage make Chupa an enjoyable film targeted at younger viewers. In the end, Chupa finds his way home, but not before an exciting rescue and a tremendous butt-whopping by a protective grandfather. Alex leaves Mexico much wiser and with a promise to be proud of his family heritage. ✦

true grit. Again, it could have been a wonderful film, but too many inappropriate sexual innuendos, too much foul language, and knee in the groin physical comedy makes Champions really cringe-worthy. The trailer is misleading, so be forewarned. The final game ends the film on an upbeat with a valuable, unexpected lesson for Coach Marcus. And the dance credits are cute!

Danger comes after Chupa.

Life lessons on the court.

BY MICHELLE FERGUSON

C The Magic of Classical Music

LASSICAL MUSIC HAS LONG been known for its ability to improve cognitive functioning, making it an ideal genre for children to explore. Research has shown that exposing children to classical music can have a positive impact on brain development, mental health and lead to lower levels of anxiety and depression. Dr. Pilar Bradshaw, a pediatrician and founding member of Chamber Music Amici, explains, “Classical music is great for development and curiosity, and learning to play an instrument can help develop fine motor skills and other important abilities.” Despite these benefits, many children today don’t know what classical music is.

If you’re wondering how to get started, attending live concerts can be a great way to immerse your family in the genre. Chamber Music Amici is a local organization that offers free summer concerts at Mt. Pisgah Arboretum and affordable $5 student and family tickets to their regular season concerts at the Richard E. Wildish Community Theater in Springfield, OR. Chamber Music Amici aims to promote the development of a new generation of music lovers by encouraging kids and their families to enjoy the short, fun concerts they give, followed by desserts

on stage after the music ends. Kids as young as six years old can be swept up by the magic. The organization has always been committed to exposing children to classical music and the wonder of chamber music in particular. As Dr. Bradshaw notes, “This genre can have a profound impact on children’s development and well-being, making it well worth exploring and incorporating into your family’s routine.”

Another way to introduce children to classical music is by utilizing online resources, such as curated playlists, educational games, and videos. For kids who are interested in learning to play an instrument, there are many options available. Local music stores often offer instrument rentals and lessons. Contact local music institutions and explore teachers for private and group lessons. Studies have shown that children who learn to play a musical instrument have improved memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.

Incorporating classical music into children’s lives doesn’t have to be a chore – in fact, it can be a fun and engaging activity for the entire family. Consider setting aside time each week to listen to a classical piece together, discussing different instruments and sounds you hear. You can encourage their curiosity and creativity by making a game out of it by asking your child to guess the composer or the name of the piece. Exposing children to classical music is an enriching experience that can provide a lifetime of benefits. ✦

Chamber Music Amici’s upcoming concert dates are June 4 & 5 and August 1 & 2. You can check performance information on their website at ChamberMusicAmici.org.

Included with regular admission; Show your Oregon Trail or other EBT card for an admission discount.

Rescue Spotlight

Meet DORIT , the sweetest gal around! She is a friendly, affectionate 2-year-old pitbull mix with beautiful black fur with white markings. She has some stranger danger and can be a bit shy upon initial meetings, but she warms up quickly and instantly becomes your best friend. She enjoys spending time outdoors and having a fenced in yard to play in. She would be the perfect walking companion along the coast or the neighborhood. She is great on leash and polite. After a day of fun, she would make the perfect couch buddy! A staff member said, “I love Dorit! She is so playful when she shows off her toys and is extremely affectionate and gentle. She gives little kisses often”

Dorit needs to be the only dog in the home and should have a slow introduction to any kitty friends. She would do ok with kids that can respect her space. She weighs about 60 lbs., is spayed, microchipped, and up to date on vaccines. She is currently in a foster home receiving lots of TLC so if you are interested in meeting her, please give us a call to schedule an appointment. Dorit would make the most amazing companion dog to a loving family that will treat her like royalty.

The Cat Rescue & Adoption Network presents HAHA , an extra large and handsome gray and white tuxedo male kitty about 3 years old. He is curious and playful, and he LOVES to snuggle and get attention. He is not shy and is open to meeting new people (including kids) and exploring new environments. He’s a sweet and loving boy with an adorable personality who would love to be an only cat and keep his human family company. He’s been neutered, spayed, vaccinated, microchipped, negative for FIV & FeLV, and in excellent health. To meet HaHa, please call 541-225-4955 option 1, or visit our website at CatRescues.org

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.