News Briefs Pet calendars

After last year’s success, they had to do it again. The Army Corps Of Engineers has released its 2024 giant Cats and Infrastructure calendar. Last year it was an Internet sensation, going beyond being viral to being featured on TV talk shows. This year they decided to time the release of their calendar with National Cat Day and it appears to have a gentler approach, compared to last year, when giant cats appeared to be trying to destroy infrastructure.

Also new to this year is a dog calendar. That’s right, they did two calendars. The dog versions feature pups riding in ships, looking after the dams, and running through locks.

Both versions are completely free and downloadable so you can print and enjoy. Be warned, they are, however, very large high-resolution files. To view, or download, go to: petcalendar.us

Dear Stranger

Dear Stranger is a recurring letter exchange project that connects Oregonians through the mail to share experiences, beliefs, and ideas. Since 2014, more than 1,000 people have exchanged letters through the project. Everyone is invited to participate—whatever your age, your place of residence, or your circumstances, Dear Stranger wants to hear from you.

When you write to Dear Stranger, your letter will be swapped with one from another writer. They will get your letter; you will get theirs. The exchange is anonymous.

Here’s how to participate: Write a letter. Address it “Dear Stranger.” Fill a page or two, or more if you feel inspired. If you’d like, feel free to include a photo a drawing, or a recipe—anything that will fit in an envelope. You can write about anything you like. Here’s a prompt to get you started: What is the Oregon you want to live in? The United States declared its independence nearly 250 years ago. What do you hope the next 250 years will hold for Oregon and the country? How will people practice independence, interdependence, or both?

Complete the Dear Stranger release form, at wheremindsgrow.org. We cannot exchange letters without a release. Mail your letter by October 31, 2024, to Dear Stranger c/o Oregon Humanities, 610 SW Alder, Suite 1111, Portland, OR 97205.

Dive In Movies

Enjoy a unique evening swim and movie event. Watch “How to Train Your Dragon” on Splash’s outdoor sun deck and come and go as you please from the pool to the movie. Bring a towel or blanket to enjoy the film on the lawn, and purchase food and drinks from local vendors. Food and beverages are available from Wildcraft Cider Works (for adults aged 21 and older) and Most Wanted Espresso.

Doors open at 8 p.m., and the movie starts at 9 p.m. You don’t need to register. Regular Splash admission rates: Toddler (3 and under) $4 in-district or $7 out-of-district, Youth (4-17) $7 in-district or $9 out-of-district, Adults (18-49) $8 in-district or $11 out-of-district, Seniors (50+) $7 in-district or $9 out-of-district, Students/Military $7 in-district or $9 out-of-district

Splash! at Lively Park6100 Thurston Road in Springfield. willamalane.org/activities/dive-movies