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A Call to Action for Our Planet
The ongoing challenge of sustainability and climate action
By Robert Matsumura, Active Media
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!
Bluegill Thrill
Easy fishing for parents and kids
By Lucas Holmgren, Active Media
Creating memories with kids is a heartwarming experience for parents. For a parent looking to take their children fishing, a smart place to start is fishing for bluegill, perch and crappie in local lakes and ponds.
In the Northwest, there is a surprising abundance of “panfish.” The most popular of this aptly named category of fish that are easily pan-fried is the bluegill. Bluegill can be found in virtually every lake and many smaller ponds in the Oregon and Washington area. Summer months are often the best chance for them, so if you go out in spring and don’t find any near the bank, just wait until it warms up more. They’re easy to see, and plenty of information exists online about which lakes they dwell in.
As a general rule, bluegill will usually be active when your local pond is 60 to 65°F. As the water temperature warms they can still be very active in the deepest months of summer, although they will often retreat to more shaded areas.
Once you’ve found bluegill in your local lake, float-fish
(bobber-fish) an earthworm on a small — size 12, 14 are ideal — hook. Using light fishing line, attach a small “Crappie Float” or even the classic red-and-white plastic bobbers, but make sure the float is small enough to be easily pulled under. Adding a split-shot under the float can help with casting and getting the hook down to depth faster. The simplest float and hook with a worm has accounted for millions of fish.
Unlike other species, bluegill don’t necessarily need the bait to be near the bottom, but I like to make sure it’s at least floating at about half of the total water depth. The rod and reel you use doesn’t need to be expensive, but it should not cause issues that take all the fun out of fishing. When bluegill are near the bank, even a long stick with fishing line tied to it can be used to catch fish, but ideally an ultra-light spinning rod with quality line on it will make things much easier.
Fishing near lily pads and logs can be perfect ambush points for these aggressive little fish. If you’re not getting bites, try adjusting the depth you are fishing or move to another area. Once you’ve found biting bluegill, you’re likely to find many more!
Before you take the kids out though, make sure the water and the weather are warm enough. If the bluegill are active and the weather is nice, pack the snacks and the tackle, and go fishing! Lucas Holmgren is the host of the Salmon Trout Steelheader Podcast and a musician.
Type 2 Diabetes is a growing concern in America. Recent studies show that 80% of people have blood sugar that regularly swings far above a normal value and then falls lower than it should. This can happen multiple times a day and causes all kinds of health problems for people including fatigue, irritability, hormone imbalance, brain fog, inflammation, and insomnia. Here are some simple recommendations that can make an enormous difference for your blood sugar, mood, energy, weight, and your long term health.
Eat a high protein, low carbohydrate breakfast. Starting your day with protein and fats prevents a blood sugar roller-coaster. Including some vegetables with breakfast is even better. Carbohydrates like cereal and bread spike your blood sugar. If you don’t like eggs, then sausage, left over meat, protein powder, or Greek yogurt are great alternatives.
15 minutes before meals slows down carbohydrate digestion and helps prevent blood sugar spikes. Try it in warm or sparkling water sweetened with stevia or monk fruit. A vinaigrette salad dressing can be an easy alternative.
Exercise after at least one meal a day. Muscles pull in glucose from the blood for energy. Even a ten minute walk after eating can use up a significant amount of glucose.
Never eat your sugars naked. Don’t eat any kind of sugar, even ‘healthy’ ones like honey or sweet fruits, alone. They can send your blood sugar spiking. Make sure your sweet treat is clothed with other foods. Eating it at the end of a meal instead of on its own to minimize its effect. For mid day snacks eat nuts, cheese, vegetables, or some protein instead.
Vegetables first, protein second, carbohydrates last. Long fibers in vegetables make a mat in the bottom of your stomach slowing down the absorption of sugars and carbs. This also prolongs your feeling of fullness. Eating carbs at the end of your meal means they absorb slowly. If you’re eating something like a stir fry, have a veggie appetizer or salad first.
One tablespoon vinegar before meals. Drinking a tablespoon of vinegar in water about 10 to
Many herbs, spices, and minerals can help balance your blood sugar. Stop by our store for some recommendations such as Blood Sugar Manager by Nature’s Way. To help stop sugar cravings try Gymnema tablets by MediHerb. For a healthy snack bar that won’t raise your sugar levels, try our delicious Stabilyz Bars. For more tips on blood sugar control look up “The Glucose Goddess” on YouTube.
Ruth Maletz RN, CNC & Jonathan Maletz, LMHC Daniel’s Health & Nutrition 918 12th Street, Hood River 541-386-7328
DanielsHoodRiver.com
The Sound of Music (1965)
A perfect movie for springtime, this is an adventurous modern retelling of Beatrix Potter’s beloved classic, full of energy and sweet humor. The story follows the mischievous Peter Rabbit as he and his rabbit siblings wage a rivalry with Thomas McGregor for control of their country garden. With gorgeous animation, a charming English countryside, and a story full of slapstick comedy, the movie captures the air of renewal and adventure that defines spring. Unlike the original books, where old Farmer McGregor is the rabbits’ main adversary, this movie introduces Thomas McGregor, his great-nephew. A meticulous cityslicker from London, Thomas inherits his late uncle’s farm and initially wants to sell it — until he discovers Peter and his family invading the garden. What follows is a ridiculous rivalry between Thomas and the rabbits. The movie offers a surprisingly heartfelt journey about family, friendship, and learning from your mistakes. Starring James Corden, Rose Byrne, Domhnall Gleeson, Margot Robbie, Daisy Ridley, and Elizabeth Debicki. Rated PG for some rude humor and action.
Few movies capture spring quite like The Sound of Music. The story follows Maria, a free-spirited postulant (woman training to be a nun), who is sent to be the governess for seven von Trapp children. Through music, kindness, and an unshakable zest for life, Maria breathes new life into the family — just as Austria faces the impending rise of the Nazi regime. The stunning outdoor cinematography, from the lush meadows to the blossoming romance between Maria and the Captain, makes the movie feel as fresh and invigorating as spring itself. And this is more than just a picturesque musical — as the von Trapps face difficult choices under Nazi occupation, their courage and devotion to each other creates a powerful message of hope and resilience. The movie somehow blends joy, romance, and suspense, making it an unforgettable experience. Starring Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer, Eleanor Parker, Richard Haydn, and Peggy Wood. Rated G, but please note themes of Nazi occupation, strict parenting, traditional gender roles, and religious life.
Spring Facts:
10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
Young love, springtime in high school, and prom. A loose, modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s comedy “Taming of the Shrew,” 10 Things is an iconic ’90s teen rom-com. The story follows Kat, the “shrew” (a smart, independent, rebellious woman) and her sister Bianca. Bianca wants to date but can’t until Kat does. Cameron, a new student, falls in love with Bianca but she wants to date Joey, a rich bad boy. So Cameron schemes with his friend Michael: convince Joey to pay moody outcast Patrick Verona to date Kat, thus allowing Joey to date Bianca (and unofficially allowing Cameron to date Bianca eventually). Like most rom-coms, there’s a relationship reversal — Patrick really falls for Kat, Bianca realizes that Joey is a jerk and Cameron is actually great. However, Kat soon discovers the scheme and is heartbroken. But in true rom-com fashion, there’s a dramatic reconciliation where Kat confesses her feelings for Patrick as well as the 10 things she hates about him. Starring Julia Stiles, Larisa Oleynik, Joseph GordonLevitt, Heath Ledger, and more. Rated PG-13 for crude humor, brief strong language, and some sexual references.
* The Spring Equinox, usually around March 20th or 21st, marks the day when daytime and nighttime are nearly equal in length, signaling the official start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.
* Spring is crucial for plant life because it’s the time when many plants break dormancy. As temperatures rise and days lengthen, plants begin to bloom and grow, using the energy from the sun to fuel their photosynthesis and bloom in vibrant colors.
* Many bird species migrate during the colder months and return in spring to breed. These birds follow seasonal patterns and rely on the availability of insects and plants that peak in spring to nourish themselves and raise their young.
Peter Rabbit (2018)
Pronto & Perfect Pronto & Perfect Pronto &
How a small-town snack became an American icon
By Robert Matsumura, Active Media
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!
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