>La Grande Observer | Union and Wallowa Counties' News Leader

Rachel Carson, author of "Silent Spring," published in 1962, would have turned 100 on May 27. A dedicated scientist, she documented the wide-ranging side effects of the pesticide DDT. "Silent Spring" raised public awareness and spawned the environmental movement.

On May 25, 2007, the Los Angeles Times printed "Common Chemicals Pose Danger for Fetuses, Scientists Warn," by Marla Cone. It reports the findings of 200 leading environmental scientists from five continents linking exposure of babies to common chemicals to their increased likelihood of developing diabetes, prostrate and breast cancer, thyroid disorder, fertility problems and other problems in later life. Pesticide exposure is particularly linked to increased risk of developing Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

Automobile accidents kill people. As a result we now use seat belts to reduce risk, but we still drive cars. Mosquitoes occasionally cause sickness or death, yet they should be managed by encouraging natural predators, eliminating standing water in yards and taking personal precautions. Attempts at massive extermination create cascading negative effects to entire ecosystems as well as human health.

After assessing risk factors associated with chemical vector control, we must decide how best to manage mosquitoes. The next time funding for Vector Control comes up, look beyond the slick handouts published by chemical companies and distributed by the vector control board members. Demand that county commissioners select a more diverse vector control board.

Vector control applicators are permitted to trespass without permission unless they receive explicit instruction to stay away. The number to call is 963-2974. Of course it is impossible to avoid exposure to drifting

aerial spray.

The next decade will likely determine whether or not we heed Carson's warning in time to prevent waking to a silent spring.

Mary McCracken

La Grande

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The Friday before Memorial Day while putting flowers on the graves of friends and loved ones, I saw a woman who used poor judgment: She brought three dogs and their ball to exercise in the cemetery.

One dog urinated on a bouquet and American flag next to a headstone, which I thought was sad. I asked her when she passed by later if she was aware of what happened. She held up a bag of feces, but allowing the rest seemed very disrespectful and I told her so.

I love dogs. Mine was in my car on a leash and did not get out.

I don't think the cemetery is a dog park. Am I wrong?

Wilma Page

La Grande

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It was with sadness that I heard of the passing of former EOU football coach Don Turner. Coach D.T. was one of a kind.

I first met Coach Turner while he was working his way through Southern California recruiting football players. He was a true salesmen. He could sell ice cubes to an Eskimo. He convinced me to leave home and come to EOU sight unseen.

He loved EOU, and he loved football. What made him special was that he had a genuine love for his players. Coach believed in giving all kinds of young men the opportunity to go to college and

succeed.

Unfortunately, some of those players were not in La Grande to learn from the excellent professors or coaches at EOU and ended up causing great hardship to the community and program. Many others did take advantage of the opportunity and live in and around La Grande today as well as all over the country contributing to society in many ways. That is what I hope Coach D.T. is remembered for.

He still has more wins then any other football coach in EOU history, but sadly there is little mention of his name at EOU. I'm sure that is not intentional, and maybe the coach's players can do something to correct that.

Coach, I hope you're having a good time strolling the sidelines where you are at.

Jack Lane

Moscow, Idaho

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In 2006, 102 Union County kids were confirmed victims of child abuse – 57 percent of them under age 6; 105 Union County kids lived in foster care. Our county's rate of abuse is higher than state averages — and those are the documented cases.

We are fortunate to have service providers that help those living in abusive situations, or who would like to report suspected child abuse/neglect. The DHS Division of Child Welfare at 963-8571. The Mt. Emily Safe Center at 963-0602. The Center for Human Development at 962-8800. Or, Shelter from the Storm at 963-7226. These and others (teachers, ministers, child care providers, health care professionals) are trained and willing to assist families dealing with abuse or neglect.

Each April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month and many of these organizations and individuals come together to raise awareness and promote positive activities for kids and families during the month. The Commission on Children and Families coordinates these activities with ongoing community events and distributes a print calendar as well as an online version.

April 2007 kicked off a new event — Blue Monday, Where Family Matters. The Max Square gathering was supported by agencies, organizations, faith groups and private businesses and was designed simply to celebrate families. Approximately 400 individuals attended and enjoyed free activities ranging from a bean bag toss to face-painting, along with prize drawings, musical and dance entertainment.

Too numerous to list, close to 70 individuals volunteered, and we thank those who committed time, energy and funds. Families from all over Union County had a great time in the sunshine that day, so we feel like our "celebrate family" mission was accomplished.

We look forward to collaborating with many of you again. It is our opinion that by working together we can improve the lives of Union County kids.

Union County Commission on Children & Families, Mt. Emily Safe Center, Child Care Resource & Referral, La Grande Parks & Recreation

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I am just so proud of the young people who have represented our valley in sports: LHS team state champions and Imbler/Elgin champions as well. I'm sure the whole valley and the county are very proud of you.

Mr. Harmon at Imbler, you've been honored by the students you taught. Have a super good retirement. Thank you for your contribution to my grandkids at the Imbler School over the years.

Roy Hills

Island City

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As Oregon's superintendent of public instruction, spring is an exciting time for me. Across the state, students from Oregon's 197 school districts are walking down the aisle with family and friends watching, receiving their diploma and setting out on a new stage of their lives.

When I took office in 2003, the class of 2007 was just about to enter high school, and over the next four years surmounted the varied challenges that faced them.

I want to celebrate those students and the educators who helped them graduate. With the education they have received they are prepared to go on to the next set of challenges — whether college or the workforce. I am so proud of every one of this year's graduates.

Congratulations, Class of 2007, and good luck!

Susan Castillo

Oregon Superintendent of Public Instruction