After logging more than 728 alternative transportation miles during Earth Week in April, the University’s Academic Learning Services department earned free in-office
massages, which will be given on Thursday.
ALS took part in the “One Less Car Competition,” an inter-department contest to see which could log the most miles without members driving solo. Seventeen departments
participated in the competition, sponsored
by the Service Learning Program, part of the Environmental Studies Program.
Georgeanne Cooper, director of the teaching effectiveness program at ALS, said it was no surprise her department won.
“We have a department with a lot of people who use alternative transportation,” Cooper said. “We were a shoo-in.”
Cooper said out of 22 people in her department, six ride their bikes daily. Several take the bus and many are car-poolers.
“There are very few people who drive alone every day,” Cooper said.
She said she made an effort to encourage as many people as possible to use alternative transportation through inter-office notices and office drop-ins. She added that everyone took the campaign seriously and that helped them secure the most miles.
“We have a mom with a baby who agreed to take a bus,” Cooper said about ALS Instructor Amy Nuetzman. She said Nuetzman could have driven from Leaburg, Ore. in less than
30 minutes but instead took the bus.
Nuetzman accumulated 265 miles, bringing in the highest total for the department. She said it took 50 minutes on the bus in addition to walking time, but it was so relaxing for her and her 11-month-old daughter that they continue to take the bus. She said her daughter is “mellow and waves to people as they get on and off the bus.”
She said it also saves wear and tear on
her car.
“My car is really old and I question it’s reliability,”Nuetzman said. “The bus is safe and stretching the life of my car.” She said she also enjoys meeting neighbors from Leaburg and the surrounding area on the bus and having conversations with them.
ALS Instructor Doug Hintz said he rides a bike to work every day. He said there are many benefits to riding beyond those of Earth Week.
“I don’t have to look for parking,” Hintz said. “That’s always beneficial.” He added that it gives him a chance to get fresh air and exercise before work.
However, Hintz said it is important to be prepared for Eugene’s weather.
“The biggest thing is to have fenders on your bike or you’ll get soaked,” Hintz said.
He said winning the massages was simply a bonus for doing something already does. Massages will be performed by professional masseuse Jennifer Olsen.
Cooper said because the 15-minute massages are only available for two hours, staff members had to choose who would be rewarded.
Nuetzman said even though she traveled 213 more miles than ALS’ second place alternative traveler, she doesn’t deserve two massages.
“I’m happy to be getting the one massage,” Nuetzman said. “I’m just glad we won.”

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