text: Thank you as always to the R-G and Diane Dietz for in-depth coverage of this topic in a generally factual and fair way. (Some of the chosen added facts and correlations are a little colorful, such as emphasizing the demographics and lifestyle choices of those planning water births.) I applaud the Midwives Alliance of North America for developing research and evidence of outcomes rather than continuing to participate in the decades-long anecdotal debate. Now there is growing proof to refute the parade of horribles that certain obstetricians and cultural observers like to invent for dramatic argument. I will always advocate for the right of the person giving birth to choose where and how that birth will occur, and we are amazingly fortunate in Eugene to have many knowledgeable providers supporting safe options. The Oregon Midwifery Council should continue to provide leadership for professional development of midwives, a better solution than making out-of-hospital births less accessible.