Dallas Community Advantage Magazine April 2025

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Dallas Community Advantage Magazine

APR/MAY 2025

The Power of Words: Part Two

“Life and death are in the power of the tongue.” —Proverbs 18:21

When hurtful words cause pain during our early years of development, the repeated emotional wounding can cause us to take on negative patterns of thought and behavior. Children believe the words their parents speak about them and as they grow into adolescence, they will seek to fill a need to belong from their peers. Words that reject, criticize, shame, or deny significance can become beliefs in the heart. We may see ourselves, in a sense, through a cursed lens. How do you know if you see

yourself through a cursed lens? Answer the following questions. Am I easily hurt or angry? Am I critical, judgmental, or bitter towards myself and other people? Do I distrust others? Do I doubt my worth and abilities to succeed in life? Do I fear what other people think about

me? Do I have addictions to drugs, alcohol, food, sex, tobacco, spending money? The good news is we can change our beliefs, feelings and behaviors and life with joy and peace.

The first step is to choose to be the person God created you to be. Be willing to learn to see yourself through the eyes of Jesus Christ who loves you. Your value was determined by God who willingly paid a ransom to redeem you from the curse of sin and to heal your heart. You can have new thoughts that bring joy and peace: it starts with the choice to allow change in your life. Second, take charge of your life and be determined to challenge negative thoughts and replace them with words that bless your worth and value, words that build you up and strengthen your heart. Third, renounce (remove any claim by declaration) negative self-talk and commit to speak kindly to yourself.

A Call to Action for Our Planet

The ongoing challenge of sustainability and climate action

Every year on April 22nd, millions of people around the world celebrate Earth Day, a day commemorating environmental protection and raising awareness about our planet’s well-being. But how did Earth Day come about? The story of Earth Day is both fascinating and inspiring, a testament to how a collective push for change can have a lasting impact.

The Spark of the Movement

Earth Day actually dates back to the late 1960s when environmental concerns swelled across the United States. Issues of water pollution, air quality, pesticide use, and the loss of wildlife were looming large in the public consciousness. Rachel Carson’s 1962 book Silent Spring had already brought to light the dangers of pesticides, and a growing concern for the environment was beginning to take root.

It wasn’t until 1969, however, that the idea of Earth Day began to form. Senator Gaylord Nelson from Wisconsin — alarmed by the lack of political attention to environmental issues —vowed to take action. He envisioned a nationwide teach-in focused on the environment to engage the public and pressure politicians to embrace the environmental cause. Nelson drew inspiration in part from the student protests of the 1960s, which demonstrated how grassroots movements could galvanize the public and bring about real change.

The First Earth Day: A Massive Success

Earth Day was born on April 22, 1970. Nelson, with the assistance of activist Dennis Hayes, mobilized an astonishing 20 million Americans across the country — about 10 percent of the U.S. population at the time — who came together in rallies, teach-ins, and protests. The movement was not just about protesting, but about generating a dialogue around the need for environmental regulation and conservation.

The first Earth Day was a monumental success. People from all walks of life came together, including students, teachers, scientists, and activists. For the first time, environmental issues were discussed on a grand scale, clearly showing that protecting the Earth was no longer a niche concern but one that deserved national attention.

The Birth of Environmental Legislation

The success of Earth Day extended far beyond rallies, however. Significant changes in U.S. policy resulted from this event. In the wake of the first Earth Day, Congress passed major environmental legislation, including the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was also created in 1970. It was clear that public opinion had shifted, and lawmakers took notice.

Earth Day Goes Global

Although Earth Day was born in the United States, its message resonated around the world. In 1990, Earth Day went international, with 200 million people in over 140 countries participating. Since then, Earth Day has continued to grow. Events now take place in countries across the globe, with the Earth Day Network actively coordinating the activities.

A Day for Action and Reflection

Today, Earth Day is more relevant than ever. As the planet grapples with climate change, deforestation, and diminishing biodiversity, Earth Day is a reminder that everyone has a role to play in protecting our environment.

So this April 22nd, whether you’re planting a tree, cleaning up a local park, or simply recycling a plastic container, remember that Earth Day is a day to celebrate the planet we all share, ensuring that it continues to be a healthy and enjoyable place for generations to come!

Chemeketa Graduates: The Backbone of Our Community

From the paramedics saving lives to the dental assistants ensuring your brightest smile, Chemeketa Community College graduates are everywhere, making a difference.

They are the auto mechanics keeping you on the road, the electricians powering your homes and businesses, and the skilled professionals driving our local economy forward. Our community depends on their expertise, and so do local employers. At Chemeketa, we provide the training and hands-on experience needed to build a healthy, strong, and thriving community.

Will you be among our next group of graduates?

Explore our diverse career education pathways in healthcare, skilled trades, technology, and beyond. Your future starts here.

Chemeketa Community College

Building Careers, Strengthening Communities.

CHEMEKETA BOND

Career & Technical Education Bond Information (Measure 24-513)

On May 20th, voters will have the opportunity to consider a ballot measure which would fund an expansion of Career and Technical Education-CTE programs, teaching & learning spaces, campus safety, and building infrastructure maintenance.

If passed, this bond will retain the expiring Chemeketa Community College Bond Rate of $.27/$1,000 of assessed property value.

See what projects the bond will fund at go.chemeketa. edu/bond or scan this QR code.

Engineering a Love for Music

Dallas welcomes dynamic band director

Stephen Burroughs is the Director of Bands for the Dallas School District, serving as the band director for both LaCreole Middle School and Dallas High School. This first year has been a rewarding challenge, made possible by the strong support of the community, staff and administration. Balancing the demands of both programs requires careful planning and organization, and he approaches both with enthusiasm and a clear vision for the future.

Mr. Burroughs’ interest in music began in fifth grade and his appreciation for music grew under the guidance of influential teachers and directors. He initially considered a career in engineering, but during his later high school years, he realized the impact music could have on students. After studying music education at the University of Oregon, he briefly taught music at an elementary school. He enjoyed his time in primary school but missed the unique energy of instrumental music education. While attending a wind-conducting workshop held at the University of Oregon, he learned about the opening for the Director of Bands position in the Dallas School District and the exciting things happening there. The opportunity in Dallas

aligned with his teaching philosophy and desire to return to band instruction, so he applied for the job.

Mr. Burroughs believes that band fosters a sense of belonging and collaboration. It provides a space for students to build lasting friendships as they develop their musical and creative talents. The band has become an integral part of school spirit through pep band performances, assemblies and renewed traditions like the school fight song. Managing programs across seven grade levels involves strategic planning and relationship-building. Mr. Burroughs works to meet the needs of students at every skill level, from beginners to those with advanced abilities. Coordinating concerts and performances require preparation months in advance and has given him the opportunity to develop relationships with people throughout the district and community.

The success of the Dallas band programs is due to support from teachers, staff and administrators. The district values performing arts and is working to ensure the resources are in place for a growing band program. After learning about the district’s instrument inventory needs, School Board Member Lu Ann Meyer organized an instrument drive. Community partnerships, like those with Band4All, also play a vital role in providing instruments and other resources.

Mr. Burroughs’ future goals for the program include the introduction of a marching band, participation in solo ensemble competitions and expanding field trip opportunities to expose students to a broader world of music. Mr. Burroughs’ long-term vision focuses on creating opportunities for students to explore their potential in music and discover its meaning in their lives.

Dallas in Bloom

Local garden club hosts spring market

Spring is finally here, and it’s an exciting time in the Willamette Valley, with buds blooming and birds chirping the sweet sounds of the season. Come soak up the sunshine at the fifth annual “In the Garden Faire,” a bustling bazaar with over 60 vendors selling artisanal creations and a curated collection of garden essentials designed to bring wonder and whimsy to your garden and living spaces.

This year’s “Faire” will be held on Saturday, May 17, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vendor booths will fill the gym of the Evangelical Bible Church at 1175 SE Howe Street and the parking lot on the Miller Street side of the church. The Dallas Garden Club has hosted the event since its inception. “It’s our primary source of income for community projects, but also a great opportunity to talk with people about gardening and the garden club,” says Dallas Garden Club President Mike Stewart.

From thriving plant starts and gardening tools to yard art and handmade crafts, “In the Garden Faire” offers an astounding selection of treasures. Tide Creek Nursery will have a beautiful array of shrubs and flowers on-site. Shoppers can find one-of-a-kind creations like hand-painted barn quilts

by Barn Dog Quilts or teacup fairy gardens by Rose and Wax. Be sure to stop at Simply Joyful Cookies to indulge in delicious confections made locally in Dallas. The Dallas Garden Club and the Salem Area Garden Club will have booths with a “country store” theme, selling used garden tools, books and other unique items. Many vendors are returning, and some are brand new this year.

Formed in 2016 with 16 charter members, the Dallas Garden Club’s motto is “Making a Difference Where We Live,” and “In the Garden Faire” is a large part of that initiative. Proceeds from prior “Garden Faire” events have supported community outreach projects like the Pollinator Garden and the Blue Star Memorial Marker at the Dallas Post Office, the Gold Star Memorial Marker on Levens Street — near the entrance to the Dallas City Park — and the Torii Gates at the newly designed Japanese garden at the City Park. They’ve also provided financial, food and clothing support to the local Kindness Club, 4-H scholarships for their summer day program and youth awards for the Polk County Fair.

Garden Club membership is open to people of all ages who have an interest in the many facets of gardening. They meet on the 4th Monday of each month from 6:30 to 8 pm in the Evangelical Bible Church Youth Center. The program includes members sharing gardening tips and tricks, a speaker or video presentation on a specific topic, refreshments and a drawing for memberdonated items to close out the evening. It’s the ultimate community group for local gardening enthusiasts!

For more on “In the Garden Faire” or the Dallas Garden Club, contact Mike Stewart, Club President at 503-510-3293 or by email at mrmikeoregon@aol.com

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Field to Fork

Explore local produce and much more

Join your community at The Independence Farmers Market to enjoy a selection of fresh local foods, shop creations from local artisans and more. “It’s a place where people can come together and build relationships while helping to maintain a thriving local economy,” says Eden Olsen, board president and owner of Lucky Crow Farm. The market started in 1993, and market manager Martha Walton of Walton’s Garden has been involved since 1999. Located at the Umpqua Bank parking lot at the corner of Highway 51 and Main Street, the market runs April through October, Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Vendors range from old favorites to newcomers. Peruse fresh produce from area growers, including Backyard Bounty, Tony Diaz and Sunreach Farm. Discover jams, jellies, pickled vegetables and farm-fresh eggs at TDM Acres. Stock up on Oregon Creamed Honey and grab tasty treats from local bakeries. Visit Black Cloud Farm for delicious fresh and frozen

lamb farmed right in Monmouth. The market also hosts live music on some Saturdays, and Vianny’s Tamales is always there serving up homemade tamales. Clubb Massage is on-site, ready to provide a few minutes of blissful relaxation, and many makers are present with handcrafted creations.

“We live in an exceptional growing climate with so much variety, especially during the spring and summer months, and we love sharing that with our local communities,” says Eden, who last year started the Double Up Food Bucks program at her booth, so anyone using SNAP benefits can buy fresh produce at half the price. More booths will be participating in the program this season. For those needing transportation, The MonmouthIndependence Trolley is a fun, easy way to visit downtown.

Independence Farmers Market is located at 302 S Main St. in Independence. For more information, visit their Facebook page or www.independencefarmersmarket-or.org.

Pasture Proud

Family-owned sheep farm raises flourishing flock

Dark skies over Black Cloud Farm are a regular occurrence — like in most of the Pacific Northwest — but that’s not how the property got its name.

Owners Sean and Carol Park bought this farm in 2018 as Sean’s retirement venture after 24 years in the Navy. “When you’re on a Navy ship, everyone has a nickname,” he explains. “I was the weather forecaster, the Black Cloud.” Nowadays, the couple and their two daughters are sheep farmers, raising animals that produce USDA-certified grassfed meat and the coziest wool.

Sean and Carol both grew up working with sheep in 4-H despite their families’ histories as dairy farmers. They met

in the sheep barn at the Washington State Fair. After getting married, they traveled for Sean’s military career until it was time to settle down.

“We wanted our kids to grow up experiencing a farming lifestyle like we did,” Carol explains. Their 51-acre property sits on the border of Dallas and Monmouth and features vast hay fields, a creek and lush green pastures.

Black Cloud Farm currently has around 60 sheep, featuring two registered breeds and a flock lineage that Sean and Carol carefully sourced from prior 4-H contacts. The Dorsets are a dual-purpose breed, known for their clean, mild flavor with little to no game. “The Dorset wool is on the scratchier side but very warm,” says Carol. The Natural Colored Merinos come in shades of brown, black, and gray and are better known for their wool, with fine fleeces that are treasured by handspinners. “The Merino wool is soft, silky — people love it,” she explains. The Park family has bred their Dorsets and Merinos together to make hybrid “Dorinos,” whose fleeces pick up dye color beautifully and feel incredibly soft against the skin.

Mature lambs are sent for USDA processing at Century Oak Packing Company in Mount Angel. Black Cloud Farm features a certified meat storage room with giant freezers and every cut of meat you can think of. There’s an impressive variety, from chops and sirloins to sausage, bacon, and osso buco, and Sean’s the authority on the many tasty ways to prepare each cut. “I use a lot of Mediterranean recipes — they’ve been cooking with lamb for thousands of years,” he says. “My kids’

favorite is Hunkar Begendi, which is a lamb stew with creamy eggplant sauce. It’s amazing with flatbread.”

The family has regulars who visit the farm to pick up their meat, but most get it from the local farmers markets. Black Cloud Farm has participated in The Original Independence Farmers Market since 2020 and added the Dallas Oregon Farmers Market last year. Customers can stop by their booth for farm-fresh meat and colorful eggs from their chickens. Carol has a degree in ceramics and sells her beautiful handmade pottery pieces and dyed felt balls made with wool from the farm. Black Cloud Farm can also be found at local wool shows, like the Black Sheep Gathering, the Oregon Flock and Fiber Festival and the Oregon State Fair.

Besides sheep and chickens, Black Cloud Farm is home to three dogs,

four cats, an old llama, and a gaggle of turkeys led by Alistaire, a giant bird who loves to make a lot of noise and show off his tail to anyone who walks by. Sean, Carol, and their two daughters all chip in on farm chores, though Carol works full-time for the State of Oregon. There are still a lot of

improvements they’d like to make, like adding more fencing for year-round rotational grazing. “We’ll get there,” says Sean. “One of the biggest goals behind all this is to create and leave something for our kids.”

The Park family loves the Polk County community, and for Sean and Carol, it feels like the home they left before Sean’s military career. At its core, Black Cloud Farm’s primary objective is to raise fresh, nutritious meat for their friends and neighbors. “We’re happy to be able to provide local, healthy food to the community using traditional farming methods,” Sean says.

Black Cloud Farm LLC is located at 5705 Cooper Hollow Rd. in Monmouth. To purchase meat outside farmers market hours, give them a call at 240-313-6636 or send a message via their Black Cloud Farm, LLC Facebook page.

Pronto & Perfect Pronto & Perfect Pronto &

How a small-town snack became an American icon

WWWhen you think of classic fair food, what comes to mind? Perhaps it’s cotton candy, funnel cakes, or caramel apples. For many Americans, the ultimate fair staple is the corn dog. And when it comes to corn dogs, one name stands out in the annals of fried food history: the Pronto Pup.

Rainy Start in Rockaway Beach

juicy hot dog encased in a crispy, fried shell was irresistible!

Birth of a Franchise

While you might think the Pronto Pup’s origins trace back to the bustling state fairs of Texas or Minnesota, it is the town of Rockaway on the Oregon Coast that claims the distinction. In the late 1930s George and Versa Boyington, a couple who operated a hot dog stand, found themselves at the mercy of Oregon’s notoriously wet weather. The rain would soak the buns, leaving them with soggy sandwiches and frustrated customers. Undeterred, George experimented with dipping hot dogs into a thick batter made from flour and frying them. The result? A crispy, golden, portable treat that was rain resistant — the perfect snack for the Pacific Northwest’s soggy unpredictable weather.

What’s in a Name?

The Boyingtons desired a name that conveyed both the speed and convenience of their new invention.

After a brainstorming session they landed on “Pronto Pup,” evoking the quickness of serving and eating

More than just inventors, the Boyingtons were also savvy entrepreneurs. Recognizing the potential of their invention, they franchised the Pronto Pup, selling the equipment and batter mix to aspiring vendors across the country. By the 1950s, Pronto Pups had become a staple at fairs, carnivals and drive-ins nationwide.

Corn Dog vs. Pronto Pup?

The difference resides in the batter. While corn dogs are typically made with a cornmeal-based batter, Pronto Pups use a flour-based batter. The result is the Pronto Pup has a lighter, more pancake-like texture, versus its cornbread-coated cousin.

Expanding Pronto Pup’s Reach

As fairs and festivals exploded in popularity throughout the mid-20th century, so too did the Pronto Pup. Its portability and affordability made it a perfect fit for the evolving American lifestyle. Drive-ins, a cultural hallmark of the

1950s, also embraced the Pronto Pup, offering it on their menus alongside burgers and shakes.

The Boyingtons continued to refine their business model, focusing on quality and consistency. Vendors were required to use the official Pronto Pup batter mix, ensuring that every Pronto Pup, whether sold in Oregon or Omaha, tasted just right. This commitment to quality also helped establish the Pronto Pup’s reputation as a consistent and delicious snack.

Science of the Perfect Pup

Regional Rivalries and Imitators

Of course, with success came competition. The Pronto Pup’s rise to fame spurred the creation of similar snacks across the country, most notably the corn dog. While many corn dog enthusiasts assert that the cornmeal batter adds a unique flavor, Pronto Pup loyalists insist that nothing beats the original flour-based recipe.

In Minnesota, the Pronto Pup’s popularity inspired fierce loyalty. At the Minnesota State Fair, an event that draws millions of visitors each year, Pronto Pups are sold at numerous stands and remain one of the fair’s most iconic treats. For many Minnesotans, the Pronto Pup isn’t just

What’s the Pronto Pup’s secret? What makes it so delicious? It’s all about the balance of flavors and textures. The hot dog provides a savory, juicy center, while the batter delivers a crispy, slightly sweet coating. When fried to perfection, the Pronto Pup achieves a delectable contrast that’s difficult to resist. Temperature and timing are critical in the frying process. The oil needs to be hot enough to cook the batter quickly without overcooking the hot dog. Too low a temperature, and the batter becomes greasy; too high, and it burns. Experienced vendors know that achieving the perfect golden brown color demands practice and precision.

Pronto Pup in Pop Culture

American pop culture has embraced the Pronto Pup. It has been the star of food documentaries, fairground scenes in movies, even the occasional viral video. Rockaway Beach, the birthplace of the Pronto Pup, continues to honor its culinary legacy. Visitors to the town can stop by the original Pronto Pup stand, which operates to this day, and taste the Oregon classic that became a national favorite.

A Modern Take on a Classic

In recent years, food enthusiasts and vendors have begun customizing the Pronto Pup. Gourmet versions featuring artisan sausages, exotic spices, and unique dipping sauces have appeared at upscale food festivals and trendy

George and Versa Boyington

restaurants. However, even with these fancy variations, the core essence of the Pronto Pup — a simple, satisfying snack — remains the same.

Pronto

Pup Legacy

Today, the Pronto Pup is a cultural icon, particularly in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest. In Rockaway Beach, the Boyingtons’ creation is celebrated annually at the Pronto Pup Festival. Beyond nostalgia, the Pronto Pup’s story is a testament to the spirit of innovation. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best ideas come in response to the simplest of problems — and thinking outside the (soggy) bun.

The next time you’re enjoying a Pronto Pup, or even a corn dog, remember the Boyingtons, Rockaway Beach and the crispy creation that started it all. Whether you prefer yours with ketchup, mustard, or both, there’s no denying the enduring appeal of this quintessential American treat!

A Farming Tradition

93 years of agriculture supplies, equipment, and service

customers’ farms afloat by lowering the costs of fuel, tires, and farm supplies.

Few businesses in Polk County and the surrounding area can claim to be a true institution in their community. But that’s exactly the case for Ag West Supply, an agriculture co-op that supplies the multitude of farms surrounding its Rickreall location.

Through time, it hasn’t always been a smooth ride, but Michael Main, the person charged with preserving Ag West Supply’s legacy, says it’s always a pleasure keeping the organization nimble and ready to serve its customer base.

“We started out small,” says Main. “We grew with the help and support of the community because we are a coop that’s owned by farmers. As a co-op, we have a Board of Directors, and they are farmers too. The co-op business model is designed to offer goods and services at a competitive price and pass the savings on to our customers.

The story of Polk County Farmers Co-op (better known as Ag West Supply) began in 1932 at the height of the Great Depression. The organization’s goal was simple: To keep their

Both the co-op’s patrons and locals alike soon turned the store into a favorite place to shop for competitively priced goods or just catch up with their neighbors. Visitors to the store will find that the spirit is preserved in the modern incarnation of Ag West Supply. There’s still the same warmth, focus on affordability, and excellent customer service that has kept the store in business for nearly a century.

What many people in the surrounding areas may not realize is that the shop’s goods and services extend beyond those patrons who invest in the co-op to the general public. Ag West Supply remains one of the most cost-effective solutions for homeowners, hobby farmers and professional farmers, regardless of their needs.

A visit to Ag West Supply is sure to be remembered. It’s well worth the trip to the store whether you’re there for business or pleasure. Just a short 10-minute drive from Dallas, Monmouth, Independence, and West Salem, Ag West Supply carries a massive inventory of brand name essentials like fencing, pet and livestock feed, hay, hardware, lawn mowers, log splitters, generators, weed eaters, chainsaws and more!

Ag West Supply’s Rickreall location is also home to a Point S Tire location that provides a complete assortment of automotive services. Perhaps most critically, the Point S Tire location specializes in agriculture tires, whether you visit the shop or they come to you.

Today, Ag West Supply is a streamlined, service-oriented company that remains devoted to the community it serves. “Our employees live and work in our community,” says Main. “Over the years our employees have built personal relationships with our customers, knowing many of them by name. We are truly dedicated to being your one-stop shop for all your needs.”

You can learn more about Ag West Supply at their website: agwestsupply.com

Hoaxes & Hilaria

April Fools’ Day through the ages

Gregorian Calendar

April Fools’ Day is often credited to the calendar reform of 1582 in France, during the transition from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar. Before this change, the new year began with the spring equinox around April 1, consistent with traditions in other cultures such as the Hindu calendar.

However, with the adoption of the Gregorian calendar and the shifting of New Year’s Day to January 1, the observance of the new year got complicated. Some people were unaware or just refused to change and continued to celebrate the new year in late March through April 1, and these people were subjected to jests and pranks and mockingly called “April fools.”

Hilaria in Rome

A popular prank played back then involved placing paper fish on the backs of unsuspecting victims and referring to them as poisson d’avril (French for April fish), a term which supposedly symbolized both the innocence of a young, easily caught fish and that person’s gullibility. From there, a tradition of good-humored tricks, pranks and mischief began.

April Fools’ Day’s origins have also been credited to festivals like Hilaria in ancient Rome, celebrated by followers of the cult of Cybele. Hilaria, “joyful” in Latin, involved disguises and mockery, possibly inspired by Egyptian mythology. Another theory suggests a tie to the vernal equinox, with nature’s unpredictable weather fooling people.

The tradition spread in Britain during the 18th century, with Scotland adding a two day celebration. The first day, “hunting the gowk,” sent people on fake errands (“gowk” meaning cuckoo bird, a symbol for a fool). This was followed by Tailie Day, featuring pranks on people’s butts such as pinning fake tails or “kick me” signs.

Modern Day

Nowadays April Fools’ Day has become a playground for elaborate hoaxes. Newspapers, TV stations and websites will often create outrageous fictional claims to fool their audiences. In 1957, the BBC reported a record spaghetti crop in Switzerland, complete with footage of noodles being harvested from trees. In 1985, Sports Illustrated published a fake article about a pitcher named Sidd Finch throwing over 168 mph.

In 1992, NPR had a Richard Nixon impersonator announce a presidential run. In 1996, Taco Bell announced the purchase of Philadelphia’s Liberty Bell, renaming it the Taco Liberty Bell. And lastly, in 1998, Burger King advertised a “Left-Handed Whopper.” Google, on the other hand, has now become known for its annual pranks, from a “telepathic search” to turning Google Maps into Pac Man.

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Puzzlin’ for Our Planet

Every day is Earth Day

6 A species not native to an ecosystem.

8 Small, round, flat legumes often considered the most sustainable food.

9 Act of protecting or preserving nature.

12 No. 1 littered item in the world. (Two words)

13 National Park (estab. 1872) famous for geysers.

15 Process of collecting, processing and reusing materials otherwise discarded as waste.

16 Most recycled material in the world.

18 Close to 8 million metric tons of _______ go into the ocean annually.

19 Types include cascade, horsetail, plunge and tiered.

21 Renewable energy source harnessed via turbines.

22 Most of Earth’s breathable air comes from this colossal body of water.

23 Endangered bird known for its colorful feathers and large beak.

DOWN

1 Brand first to turn plastic waste into clothing; also name of region in South America.

2 The Great Pacific _______ Patch is a massive accumulation of marine debris, primarily plastic.

3 The earth is _______ years old.

4 In 2011, 28 million trees were planted in this Mideast country for Earth Day’s “Plant Trees, Not Bombs” campaign.

5 Term for variety of life on Earth.

7 Founder of Earth Day is a senator from this “cheesy” state in the upper Midwest.

10 Young activist _______ Thunberg took a zerocarbon voyage from Europe to the U.S. to raise awareness of climate change.

11 Energy created from Earth’s heat.

14 Farming that does not use synthetic chemicals.

16 The _______ Rainforest produces 20% of the planet’s oxygen.

17 The Javan _______ (abbreviated) is considered the most endangered animal in the world. The large mammal has a distinctive horn (or two) on its snout.

20 Biggest source of renewable energy.

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