This month brings with it all the anticipation, excitement, nervousness, and stress of a new school year. For first-time students and their parents, it can be scary. That’s why this edition shares tips on preparing for the transition to the classroom (page 10).
For students who’ve done it all before and found school particularly difficult, a local education specialist provides practical advice on facing academic challenges head-on (page 12).
New student or oldtimer, no matter what age your student is, they will find this month’s lunchbox recipe
— PB&Joy Bundles — a sweet reminder of their favorite childhood snack (page 7). Bonus, they can prepare these the night before to make mornings less hectic! August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month, so we take a look at the importance of vision testing and signs that your child may need glasses (page 22). But before we get back into the hustle and bustle the school year brings, Family Life also offers 10 ways to enjoy the last days of break with your family … spending little to no money in the process (page 20). And if one last road trip is on your end-of-summer bucket list, our humor columnist (page 32) explains exactly what Dad’s expectations will be.
Marketing/ Sales/Events
Patricia Ramos
707-205-1539
patty@family-life.us
Features Editor
Angel Jenkins angel@family-life.us
Production Manager
Donna Bogener production@family-life.us
Contributing Writers
Chrissy Brady
Shannon Carpenter
Rebecca Hastings
Cheryl Maguire
Pam Moore
Karen Nochimowski
Nostalgic Lunchbox
A New Take on Tradition
By Momma Chef
Back-to-school calls for delicious comfort food, so it’s no surprise that I turn to the traditional treats of childhood when packing lunchboxes. Just like a new box of crayons transports me to the simple joys of kindergarten, the familiarity of pb&j sandwiches conjures up days of simplicity and innocence. This iconic duo inspired my new twist: Bundles of PB & Joy.
Substitute whole-wheat tortilla wraps in place of bread and tuck them into your child’s lunchbox. Try them for a satisfying breakfast or for the perfect after-school snack.
Before the back-to-school rush takes over, let me encourage you to find joy in the simple things. Hearken back to the good old days and reward your kids — and yourself — with this innocently delicious treat.
Karen Nochimowski is the author of the cookbook 6-Minute Dinners (& More!), featuring more than 100 simple recipes. Karen started and runs Momma Chef’s Soup Kitchen and Momma Chef’s Little Free Pantries. Part of her cookbook proceeds go toward feeding those facing food insecurity.
PB&Joy Bundles
Prep time: 5 minutes
Yields: 4 rollups
4 flour or whole wheat tortillas (at room temperature)
1/2 cup Smucker’s Natural Strawberry Fruit Spread
3/4 cup Jif Natural Peanut Butter Spread
Instructions
Spread tortillas with Jif Natural Peanut Butter Spread (or your brand of choice) to within 1/2-inch of edges. Top peanut butter with Smucker’s Natural Strawberry Fruit Spread. Carefully roll up tortillas.
To serve, slice rolls in half or into 1-inch bite-size pieces. You can also wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours or overnight. To serve, remove from refrigerator and let sit until it comes to room temperature.
Art in the Gardens
Art in the Gardens returns to the Mendocino Botanical Gardens for its 31st year. Mingle with more than 50 artists while enjoying live music, entertainment, and dramatic summertime blooms. Food, craft brews, and wine will be available for purchase. No outside food or beverages. Well-behaved pets welcome. Takes place rain or shine. Free limited parking. Be prepared with your own mobility cart/wheelchair for the event and utilize the courtesy shuttles which will provide rides from the main parking lot, overflow parking areas, and Event Lawn. Saturday, August 3–Sunday, August 4. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. 18220 N. Hwy. 1, Fort Bragg. Learn more at gardenbythesea.org
Cruise Through the Past
Celebrating the cars that defined a generation, City of Clearlake Recreation and Events Department presents the American Graffiti Movie, Vendor Fair, & Car Show. A screening of the George Lucas’ 1970’s classic, American Graffiti, depicts a night in the life of a group of teenagers set in 1962, highlighting the popularity of “cruising” — driving a known route to meet and mingle with one’s peers. Saturday, August 24. Cars will be on display and vendors will be ready for sales at 4 p.m. Movie begins at dusk. 14077 Lakeshore Dr., Clearlake. tinyurl.com/3fdueauw
Bell Rings for Health and Wellness Fair
Shanél Valley Academy, the charter elementary school in Hopland, presents its back-to-school health and wellness fair. Learn more about local resources as well as what SVA has to offer the community. There will be dental education, health and immunization resources, and much more! Saturday, August 10. 9 a.m.–Noon. Shanel Valley Academy. 1 Ralph Bettcher Dr., Hopland. Email Julie@shanelvalleyacademy.com or visit shanelvalleyacademy.com for more details.
Art in the Gardens
Back-to-School Health and Wellness Fair
Getting Folksy at Singalong
Mendocino Theater Company brings back last summer’s smash performance, “Woody Guthrie’s American Song.” MTC calls the revival, “first and foremost a celebration of American life, our history, our struggles, our joys as seen and heard through the eyes and ears of one of America’s greatest folk music treasures, Woody Guthrie. Written for five actors and three musicians, this ensemble play traverses our land ‘from California to the New York Island…from the redwood forests to the deep sea waters.’ And like the song says, this play was made for you and me.” August 7–25. 7:30–9:30 p.m. Mendocino Theatre Company. 45200 Little Lake St., Mendocino. tinyurl.com/yc8xzmfj
Wild Things Make Your Heart Sing
Through its “Wild Things” program, The Conservation Ambassadors program rescues wildlife and teaches awareness by sharing the stories of the animals that have been saved. Meet the extraordinary creatures and hear their tales. Presentations include five-eight animals, ranging from North American wildlife and animals of Africa, to animals of the Amazon and backyard animals in The Conservation Ambassadors’ various exhibits. Friday, August 9. 1–2 p.m. Willits Branch Library, 390 E. Commercial St., Willits. tinyurl.com/bd6re3w6
Stringing Along Some Puppet Fun
String and Shadow Puppet Theater presents “Or So It Would Seam,” Summer Tour. Called “A giant puppet voyage into the hidden universe,” this touring puppet show weaves together a variety of puppetry styles, circus arts, and original music. String and Shadow is a theater company based in Olympia, Washington, using “copious amounts of cardboard, fabric, and paper-mache to pluck at the strings of universal wonder, innocence, and joy.” Presented on a free/by-donation basis, the California stops include Blue Lake, Caspar, Forestville, Petaluma, Alameda and Santa Cruz, with dates and times unique to each city. The Blue Lake show is August 11 at Dell’Arte Internacional, and Caspar is August 13 at the Caspar Community Center. For a full schedule, visit stringandshadow.com.
String and Shadow Puppet Theater
Wild Things
Woody Guthrie’s American Song
A New Start Tips
for First-time Students
By Pam Moore
Starting school for the first time can be anxiety-provoking (for kids and parents) — but it doesn’t have to be. We talked to the pros to find out how parents can set their kids up for a successful start to preschool or kindergarten.
Make Learning Fun — As parents, we are our children’s first teachers. Although this might seem like a lot of pressure, it’s an amazing opportunity to present learning as something that can (and should) be fun.
According to Lisa Stratton, an educational services manager at an early childhood education center for preschool children, we can do this by encouraging kids’ natural curiosity. “For example if your child asks you, ‘How do bats fly in dark caves without bumping into each
other?’ you can help them find the answer online or at the library,” Stratton said.
By encouraging your kids to go where their interests take them, Stratton said, “You will be teaching them that learning is fun without them realizing [it].”
Encourage Independence at Home — Parents can support the learning process by fostering childrens’ independence with daily tasks. When kids come to school prepared to handle some of these
basics, teachers have more time to focus on helping them develop academic and social skills.
Try teaching practical skills, like tying shoes, buttoning and unbuttoning clothing, and washing their own hands. Being able to open containers in their lunchboxes eases mealtime anxiety. Recognizing their
Sharing fun experiences children can look forward to is essential, as is preparing for any potential mishaps.
own name makes identifying labels on their things easier, too, especially in the case of another student having a similar backpack or jacket. Rules around getting a drink of water and waiting their turn sound like basic skills, but being prepared to put them into practice saves time and frustration at the school house.
“These day-to-day life skills and learning how to get along with
others are more important at this stage than knowing how to write their ABCs,” Stratton emphasized.
Talk to Your Child — A children’s therapeutic services manager, Shari Karmen, recommends parents let kids know what to expect before school starts. “Let them know they will be making new friends, playing with different toys, having new snacks,” she outlined.
Karmen suggests parents describe what a typical day might look like or even visit the school in advance. “Telling children several times helps them to learn that a change and new routine will be happening. Include who will be picking them up from school so they know that they will see you again.”
Apply today & begin your child’s journey to school success!
Head Start works with families to ensure everyone has what they need, and most importantly, the tools in helping children become socially and emotionally competent.
We invite families to advocate for their child and family by suggesting changes that would better their needs within the program
Sharing fun experiences children can look forward to is essential, as is preparing for any potential mishaps. Role-play ways to handle introducing oneself and responses to things that might not go as planned.
Parents can support the learning process by fostering childrens’ independence with daily tasks.
Be Informed
— As all parents know, kids are masters at picking up on their parents’ emotions; if we’re anxious, they’ll know it, and they may feel it, too. Parents can
allay some anxiety by educating themselves.
Shela Blankenship, a school district early childhood coordinator, encourages parents to visit the school’s website to learn about program information, hours, and drop-off and pick-up expectations. She encourages Parent Orientation participation to forge relationships with teachers from the start. Blankenship emphasizes, “The more parents know in advance, the more comfortable everyone will feel on the first day.” ❖
Pam Moore is an award-winning freelance writer, intuitive eating coach, and host of the Real Fit podcast. Get her free guide to improving your body image at pam-moore.com
Accepting applications YEAR ROUND.
We prepare daily fresh, hot, & healthy, family style meals on site for every child
We help keep track of your child’s medical & well check timelines.
Teachers hold permits for Early Learning & Supervision through the California Teacher Credentialling Program
We teach academics that are individualized, developmentally appropriate and to prepare children for Kindergarten.
Teachers are potty training experts! Children do not need to be potty trained Diapers and wipes are provided at no charge. Scan me to apply!
We are known for our classrooms to have high teacher to child ratios
Academic Advice
Helping Challenged Students Succeed
By Chrissy Brady
It’s early June as I write this and the festivities of the school year are finally behind me! With all the joy and celebration comes an exhausting amount of work behind the scenes to take some kids across the finish line. Most people don’t see the teachers dragging students across that line but all the hard work is worth it to see the students’ smiles and family pride at graduation or promotion.
Shortly thereafter, I walked into Staples and saw the employees setting up the “Back-to-School” displays. “NOOOOOO! Too soon!” I groaned. And I’m the teacher! I love school so much I never left. Can you imagine how students feel? What about the students who struggle with learning? Or who may not necessarily understand what it is to be a student or enjoy school? How can we help them get “back” to school when they may have never been fully invested in being present to begin with? Since I was stuck without good answers, I turned to the experts — my students, parents, and teacher team.
Me: “How can adults help children who may have a hard time at school, get ready to go back to school?”
From Parents:
• Be prepared! Start waking, eating, and going to bed on a school schedule starting at least one week before school starts.
• Prepare outfits for the week on Sundays — it reduces stress in the mornings and anxiety throughout the week.
• Turn off social media and computers at least an hour before bedtime — we all know how tough this can be but it will be worth it!
From Students: (Full disclosure, this has been heavily edited to remove high school slang/language.)
• Stock up on snacks both at home and at school.
• Have a selection of quiet fidget toys aka “sensory tools.”
• If we ask you to “back off,” we mean it, we need some space — but it means a lot to us when you come back to check in on us later, even if we don’t show it.
Let
the student experience some success before pushing them a little bit to go beyond their comfort zone.
• Help us meet expectations by telling us exactly what they should be — where are the classrooms, where are the bathrooms, who are our teachers; but don’t expect us to “get it” the first time.
Particularly at the high school level where expectations change every single hour when students rotate classrooms; understanding what is wanted and needed from students takes time, repetition, and patience — not just from teachers but from parents when the students get home. Students are emotionally and mentally exhausted the first week of school.
From Educators:
• Make the student win — don’t make the assignment, instruction, whatever it is, more difficult than it has to be. Let the student experience some success before
pushing them a little bit to go beyond their comfort zone.
• Focus on positive behavior supports even if the student isn’t necessarily displaying their best effort. Offer full-sized pencils when students forget their own — golf pencils imply you don’t trust them with the best for their own education. Nonverbal positive reinforcement can be just as effective as verbal praise.
• Support students with structure and universal design for learning strategies. Consider what materials you require or use in class: Build accommodations into worksheets and offer supplies (like tri-write pencils) that support ALL students without calling attention to anyone in particular.
• Keep a small toolbox on hand to help kids out with individual problems in private. Students will thank you later on if they don’t in the moment. For example, Zip ties can fix a broken belt so their pants don’t fall down. Safety
• A Tide pen for when students (or you!) invariably spill something on a shirt. Baby wipes get almost any stain out of carpet/other fabrics. WD-40, duct tape, screwdrivers (Phillips & flathead), basic black sharpie — not for student use, but man do they come in handy in the classroom!
If your child dreads going back to school, or you’re a teacher of such students, perhaps these tips can improve the experience and help set them up for success! ❖
pins solve so many problems. An eyeglass repair kit can fix a frame so a student doesn’t have to feel more self conscious than they probably already do. Don’t forget bandaids galore.
UKIAH COOPERATIVE NURSERY SCHOOL
Chrissy Brady, M.A., is Director of Special Education at Hanna Academy NPS in Sonoma. She has been an Education Specialist for 20 years and has taught all ages including college. Even with this experience, she knows her limitations — Chrissy likes to work with high schoolers best; Kindergartners eat her alive. Bless the Kindergarten teachers!
2024–25 School Calendars
Lake County
Mendocino County
College Planner
Month-by-Month Get Ready Guide
By The National Association for College Admissions
Getting ready to apply for college? The National Association for College Admissions Counseling suggests students follow these month-to-month steps as soon as summer ends …
AUGUST-SEPTEMBER
Register for the SAT and/or ACT if you didn’t take a college entrance exam as a junior or want to take one again. Remember: Your counselor can help with fee waivers.
Take a look at some college applications. Make note of all the pieces of information you will need to compile. Check with your school counselor to make sure you are on track to graduate and fulfill college admission requirements.
Take every opportunity to get to know colleges. Meet with college representatives who visit your school, attend local college fairs, and visit
campuses. Narrow down your list of colleges. Collect information about the application and financial aid process at each school.
Create a checklist and calendar to keep track of standardized test dates, college application due dates, and financial aid deadlines. Make note of the other materials, such as recommendations or essays, you’ll need to complete your applications.
OCTOBER
File your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon after Oct. 1 as possible. In addition to determining your eligibility for federal funds, many colleges and states use
the form when distributing grants, so don’t delay. Watch the mail for your Student Aid Report (SAR)—it should arrive four weeks after the FAFSA is filed.
Some colleges will have deadlines (rolling, priority, early decision, and early action) as early as this month. If you cannot afford the application fees that many colleges charge, ask your counselor to help you request a fee waiver.
Don’t slack in the classroom. The college you decide to attend will want to see your second semester transcript.
Finalize your college essay. Many schools will require that you submit at least one essay with your application. Request personal recommendations from teachers, school counselors, or employers.
Research scholarships. Ask your counselor, your colleges, and local religious and civic groups about scholarship opportunities. You should never pay for scholarship information.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
Finalize and send any early decision or early action applications due this month. Have a parent, teacher, counselor, or other adult review the application before it is submitted. Every college will require a copy of your transcript from your high school. Follow your school’s procedure for sending transcripts. Make sure testing companies have sent your scores directly to the colleges to which you are applying.
10,000 Degrees® supports students from low-income backgrounds to, through, and beyond college. Get the resources and support you need to achieve your college and career goals.
JANUARY
Begin to organize regular decision applications and financial aid forms, which will be due in January and/or February. If needed, register for the January SAT. It is the last one colleges will be able to consider for a senior. Many popular and selective colleges will have application deadlines as early as January 1. Others have deadlines later in January and February. If necessary, register for the February ACT (some colleges will still be able to consider it).
In January, ask your guidance office to send first semester transcripts to schools where you applied. At the end
FEBRUARY-MAY
Acceptance letters and financial aid offers will start to arrive. Review your
acceptances, compare financial aid packages, and visit your final choices. Don’t slack in the classroom. The college you decide to attend will want to see your second semester transcript. May 1 is the date when the college you plan to attend requires a
commitment and deposit. When you’ve made your college decision, notify your counselor. Send in your deposit by the postmark date of May 1. If you’ve been offered financial aid, accept the offer and follow the instructions given. Also notify schools you will not attend of your decision.
Request that your final transcript be sent to the college you will be attending. If you are wait-listed by a college you really want to attend, visit, call, and write the admission office to make your interest clear. Ask how you can strengthen your application. ❖ Learn more at www.nacacnet.org
So Long to Summer
Enjoy the Last Days of Break
By Rebecca Hastings
Days are slipping away. We feel them through our fingertips like the sand our kids once played in. No matter how tightly we clench our fists, the sand keeps falling. Instead of holding so tight, maybe we need to relax. Open our hands. Let the sand rest there a moment before we reach down and grab another handful.
Here are 10 ways to help you enjoy remaining moments of summer ...
Introduce them to a movie from your youth. They’ll think it’s fun to make fun of the clothing and hair and cheesy movie lines. You’ll enjoy the walk down memory lane with your child
Let them plan a day for the family. Give them a budget and let them take the lead. It’s exciting to see what they come up with. We could talk all about the great skills they are practicing with this one, but it’s more
fun just to sit back and enjoy the ride. You may be surprised to see what they come up with!
Read a book together. Either out loud or a book you can both read individually. I find my teen reads far faster than I can, so I have to make a conscious effort on this one. Without making it formal, just find times to slip the story into conversation. It’s a connection you can both enjoy.
Pick a show to watch together. Start with episode one, pop some popcorn, and enjoy a good binge-fest
together. While I often lament missing those quiet evenings from back in the days of 8 p.m. bedtimes, you now have time to relax together. Find a way to enjoy it.
Go to a game or a concert. It doesn’t have to be the major leagues or a top musician, but find a local game for a sport your kid loves or a local concert for a style of music your teen enjoys. It’s simple, doesn’t cost a lot, and gives you a great time out together … being outdoors is a bonus! Plus this one doesn’t usually take much convincing.
Being available is one of the best ways to create a connection.
Be the house the kids want to come to. This one isn’t about parent-child bonding like some of the other ideas on this list, but when you create an atmosphere your teen and his or her friends want to be in, you benefit, too. Not only is your tween/ teen around more, but you get to know their friends and see them interact together. Have the good snacks. Resist the urge to embarrass or scold. Don’t mistake this for changing how you do things or your rules. Just be real and welcoming and let the rest happen naturally.
Volunteer to serve. Not all teens are eager to participate in volunteer activities, but once you get started most kids come around and even appreciate it. Find something you can do for someone else together. Working together is the key to making this successful. Good places to try are soup kitchens, libraries (even summer
camps and summer school may offer opportunities for reading to children), parks departments, or local charities. It doesn’t have to be complex, it just needs to be about giving.
Play their game. Sometimes teens are wrapped up in the latest game or app. Get involved. It will most likely be funny, but giving them the chance to show you how to do something
Have the good snacks. Resist the urge to embarrass or scold.
creates a special bond. Recognizing their expertise helps them feel respected and that goes a long way.
Dream together. Even little moments offer opportunities to connect. Asking questions is a great way to see glimpses of your child that you never imagined. Here are a few questions to get you started: What is your dream vacation? What kind of house do you think you’ll live in when you’re my age? If you could eat anything in the world for your next meal what would it be?
Make time, but don’t force it. Being available is one of the best ways to create a connection. It doesn’t mean following your kids around, but make sure that you aren’t checking out or disappearing every time they are around. Be present and open and see what happens! ❖
Rebecca is a published author and former teacher passionate about authenticity, faith, and family. In real life, she can often be found typing words, driving her kids places, or wherever there is chocolate. Connect with her at rebeccahastings.net and on Instagram
lake
LOCAL for 30
Vision Test Remember August is Eye Health Month
By Cheryl Maguire
You need glasses,” the ophthalmologist said to me when I was 12 years old. My mom was shocked since I never complained of unclear vision and no one else in our family had poor eyesight. I’d only gone to the doctor after failing the school eye screening exam. (My vision had become gradually worse so I didn’t realize it wasn’t normal.)
I remember when I first wore glasses thinking, “Everything seems so clear and crisp. I can see the tips of leaves on a tree and easily read street signs.” I had thought it was normal to see the world a little bit blurry!
August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month. This issue is important to me since my vision has significantly declined from the time of my initial diagnosis more than 30 years ago. Even though I am nearsighted (which means I can only see close up and need glasses for far away), without my glasses or contact lenses, I wouldn’t
be able to read anything on a Word document (it’s just a white blur with black lines) since my vision is so poor. I asked my eye doctor if I’m considered legally blind. Turns out I’m not since my vision can still be corrected with glasses.
According to the CDC 6.8 percent of children younger than 18 in the U.S. have a diagnosed eye and vision condition, with Amblyopia (lazy eye) the most common cause of vision loss in children which can be treated if caught between the ages of 3-5 years old.
The website preventblindness.org found the most common vision disorders in children are myopia (nearsightedness/trouble seeing far away), hyperopia (farsightedness/ trouble seeing close up), and astigmatism (blurry vision at all distances).
The Urban Child Institute states that correcting poor vision can foster a child’s cognitive and social development. The American Optometric Association estimates 80 percent of a child’s learning happens through observation. In the classroom, most of the teaching is done by displaying the information. Children learn social skills from seeing facial expressions and body language.
Similar to my experience, children may be unaware their vision isn’t normal. This may lead to feeling frustrated about being unable to see the words in a book or on the board in the classroom causing a child to act out.
“Some children with learning difficulties exhibit specific behaviors of hyperactivity and distractibility. These children are often labeled as having Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD),” The American Optometric Association stated.
“However, undetected and untreated vision problems can elicit some of the very same signs and symptoms commonly attributed to ADHD. Due to these similarities, some children may be mislabeled as having ADHD when, in fact, they have an undetected vision problem.”
The following are signs a child could have vision issues:
1. Head tilt: If your child has a problem with their ocular muscles or nerves they will attempt to compensate by tilting their head.
2. Sitting too close to the TV. If your child is nearsighted, they will attempt to compensate for this by moving closer to the TV or reading materials.
3. Avoidance of reading: If your child has poor visual skills they will compensate by avoiding reading. Reading uses many complex eye movements and poor visual skills may cause your child to become frustrated easily.
4. Frequent headaches: Your child may have headaches because he/ she is overstrained using their energy to align, focus, and use their eyes.
5. Laterality problem: If your child has poor directional skills and often confuses left and right it could be due to poor vision.
6. Finger pointing: If your child has poor vision tracking skills they may use their finger to compensate.
7. Can’t copy from the board: Your child may have difficulty with the ability to change focus between far and near.
8. Squinting: This narrows a bundle of light entering the eye which allows for sharper vision.
9. Poor hand/eye coordination: This skill is required for everything from writing notes in class to playing ball with friends.
10. Eye rubbing: This is a basic response to ocular discomfort. It typically occurs when one’s eyes are
strained or have been working much too hard to complete a task.
If your child is experiencing one of these symptoms, consider scheduling an eye exam. There are two different types of eye doctors, ophthalmologists and optometrists. An ophthalmologist
According to the CDC 6.8 percent of children younger than 18 in the U.S. have a diagnosed eye and vision condition ...
Considering child support?
went to medical school and had a one-year internship followed by a three-year residency. These types of doctors can provide total eye care services.
An optometrist did not attend medical school. Instead, these types of doctors went to a four-year professional program and received a doctor of optometry degree. Optometrists mostly prescribe glasses and contact lenses. Due to my poor vision and the fact I have had other vision issues, I go to an ophthalmologist every two years for a checkup.
Even though my mother didn’t think I would need glasses as a child, she took me to see the eye doctor. I’m grateful
Bringing up the topic of child support can be hard. The Mendocino County Child Support Services office is here to help you understand the child support process and file all the paperwork involved. We are a neutral party, and assist both moms and dads!
We provide the following services in a professional and timely manner at little or no cost:
Providing on-line tools and resources for giving and receiving information/ digital signatures and e-filingno need to come into the office
Locating the other parent and assets
Obtaining child support orders
Enforcing child support orders
Modifying child support orders
Establish parentage including genetic testing
Enforcing spousal support orders in conjunction with child support
Providing a monthly accounting of what is owed and due
Providing individualized case management/help with navigating the child support and spousal support arena If you have any questions, please contact us at:
August Calendar of Events
This Little Lighthouse of Mine
In honor of National Lighthouse Day, vistors to The Point Arena Lighthouse will enjoy free admission to the Indoor Museum, Outdoor Museum, and Light Station Store. According to the National Lighthouse Society, National Lighthouse Day was originally established in 1989 to “honor the beacon of light that, for hundreds of years, symbolized safety and security for ships and boats at sea.” Joining hundreds of lighthouses across America, Point Arena Lighthouse will provide Tower Tours to guests 4 years and older for $5 per person. Wednesday, August 7. 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. For more information, call the Lighthouse at 877-725-4448, ext. 1, or 707-882-2809, ext. 1. tinyurl.com/ytvzhwj6.
Thursday 1
Redwood Empire Fair, “Red, White, & Ewe.” Carnival rides, livestock shows, art & flower exhibits, & vendors. Entry: $8–$10. Ages 5 & younger: Free. Carnival wristband: $37. Parking: $10. Aug. 1*: 3–10 p.m. (*ages 12 & under & 65+: Free.) Aug. 2: 3–10 p.m. Aug. 3–4: Noon–10 p.m. 1055 N. State St.,
Friday 2
FREE Middletown Farmers Market. Locally fresh produce, crafted goods, & artisanal treats. Double your EBT benefits up to $30. Fridays. 5–8 p.m. 21256 Washington St., Middletown. tinyurl.com/ykx8b896.
FREE Friday Night Summer Concerts. Live music & dancing. Aug. 2: Hairstrike Band. Aug 9: Funky
available for purchase. 6:30–8:30 p.m. Library Park. 222 Park St., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/yznua37v
FREE Shakespeare at the Lake. The Lake County Theatre Company performs The Tempest, setting it in the early 1980’s punk scene. Blanket or low-back chairs only. Donations suggested. Aug. 2–3: 7 p.m. Austin Park. 14077 Lakeshore Dr., Clearlake.
The Point Arena Lighthouse
Saturday 3
Annual Kids Triathlon. Hosted by the City of Ukiah. 3-levels for ages 6–17 yrs. $10–$15 includes race packet, lunch, & goody bag. Registration opens: 9 a.m. (Pre-registration: $10; Walk-up registration: $15.) Race: 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Todd Grove Park. 600 Live Oak Ave., Ukiah. cityofukiah. com/kidstriathlon.
FREE Craft Fair. Variety of craft items from local vendors. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres & drinks. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Clearlake Senior Center. 3245 Bowers Rd., Clearlake. hsscclearlake.org.
Lighthouse Lens Tours at Point Cabrillo. Tours are first-come, first-serve, no reservations. $5–$10. Children 42” & taller only. Tours last
15–30 minutes. Held first weekend of each month. Aug. 3–4. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Point Cabrillo Lighthouse. 45300 Lighthouse Rd., Mendocino. pointcabrillo.org/visit/events.
Art in the Garden. Art exhibit in the garden, along with 50+ artists, live music, beer, wine, & food. $10–$30.
Ages 5 & under: Free. Aug. 5–6: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Mendocino Botanical Gardens. 18220 CA-1, Fort Bragg. Tickets: tinyurl.com/u2vtcf97.
Elk Volunteer Fire Department
Annual BBQ. No-host bar, live music, raffle, live auction, & kid activities. $6–$30. No dogs. Noon–4 p.m. Greenwood Community Center. 3075 S. Hwy. 1, Elk. elkweb.org/ calendar-of-events.
Sunday 4
Yoga at the Gardens. Led by certified yoga instructor Tracey Green. All-levels welcome. $15 in addition to Museum admission: $8–$20. Bring mat. Sundays. Noon–1 p.m. (Arrive at 11:30 a.m. to allow time to reach Event Lawn). Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. 18220 N. Hwy 1, Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/mbe9ftn9.
FREE First Fiddlers’ Jam. Listen to fiddle tunes played by members of the Northern California Old Time Fiddlers Group. Noon–2:10 p.m. Ely Barn. 9921 Soda Bay Rd. (Hwy. 128), Kelseyville. lakecountyhistory.org/ events
Tallman Hotel Ice Cream Social Fundraiser. Upper Lake Women’s Protective Club annual fundraiser
to benefit the Hammond Library & Upper Lake High School Scholarship Fund. Music provided by Erin Call & Greg Bushta. $20. Ages 10 & under: $10. 3–5 p.m. Blue Wing Restaurant. 9520 Main St., Upper Lake. tinyurl. com/5n9yb6nh.
Monday 5
FREE Junior Rangers@ MacKerricher Park. Ages 7–12 are invited to join a California Park interpreter to learn about history, plants, & animals. Mondays. 11 a.m.–Noon. MacKerricher State Park (Laguna Point Parking Area Picnic Tables). 24100 MacKerricher Park Rd., Fort Bragg. Other Mendocino State Parks will host this event. Full
Tuesday 6
FREE Summer Lunch Pop-ups. Ukiah Branch Library and UUSD partner to offer crafts, games, STEM activities, books, & more. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Ukiah Library. Todd Grove Park. 600 Live Oak Ave., Ukiah. tinyurl. com/4yk9v6rk.
Wednesday 7
FREE National Lighthouse Day. Free admission to the indoor & outdoor museums & Light Station store. Tower Tours for ages 4 & older: $5 per person. 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Point Arena Lighthouse. 45500 Lighthouse Rd., Point Arena. pointarenalighthouse.com/visit
make Doodling Robots which can create works of art. Space is limited. Sign-up early: 707–964–2020. 2–3 p.m. Fort Bragg Library. 499 E. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/4b4ywhhw.
Woody Guthrie’s American Song. Revvival of Mendocino Theatre Company’s Summer 2023 hit play. Orchestrations & vocal arrangements by Jeff Waxman. $16.50–$33.50. Aug. 7–25. Wednesdays–Saturdays: 7:30 p.m. Sundays: 2 p.m. Mendocino Theatre Company. 45200 Little Lake St., Mendocino. tinyurl.com/ ywdzv66d.
FREE Teen Movie Afternoons. Movies will be age-appropriate. Snacks provided. 2:30–5 p.m. Ukiah Library.
Friday 9
FREE Wild Things Animal Presentation–End of Summer Reading Event. Rescue animals up close & in-person. Led by Gabe from Conservation Ambassadors program, discussing the diversity of life on earth & sharing stories of the animals in his care. 1–2 p.m. Willits Library. 390 E. Commercial St., Willits. Other Mendocino Library Branches will host this event. tinyurl.com/yc2bfz6z.
FREE Family Friendly Fridays. Art in the Park. 5–8 p.m. Ukiah Observatory Park. 432 Observatory, Ukiah. tinyurl.com/39dbmdhp.
Saturday 10
Anderson Marsh Guided Nature Walks. Walks are 1.5–3 hours, depending on the route. Bring water, sturdy shoes, & binoculars. Cancelled in cases of bad weather. Second Saturday of the month. 8:30 a.m. Anderson Marsh State Historical Park. 8400 Hwy. 53, Lower Lake. andersonmarsh.org.
FREE Health & Wellness Fair. Discover local resources & explore the opportunities Shanél Valley Academy offers for your child. 9 a.m.–Noon. Shanél Valley Academy. 1 Ralph Bettcher Dr., Hopland. shanelvalleyacademy.com
FREE Chicken Lips End-of-Summer Reading Event. Celebrate with a high-energy explosion of music, dancing, & laughter. 2–3 p.m. Fort Bragg Library. 499 E. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/2tahcd77.
FREE Concert in the Park: Journey Revisited. Blanket or low-back chairs only. Food/drinks available for purchase. 7 p.m. Austin Park. 14077
Lakeshore Dr., Clearlake. tinyurl.com/ yy8b99tc
FREE Movies in the Park. King Fu Panda 4. Bring chairs, blankets, & picnic. Food/drinks also available for purchase. Pre-movie activities. Movies starts at dusk. Middletown
Symphony of the Redwoods Music in the Gardens. Noon: Mendocino Woodwind Quintet. 2:30 p.m.: Bob Ayre’s Big Band. Concert free w/ purchase of Garden admission:
Providing opportunities on the Mendocino Coast that promote physical and mental wellbeing for everyone, through active play, community enrichment, programs and events.
Exciting new classes and programs are coming soon! Visit mendocoastrec.org for more information.
$8–$20. Ages 5 & younger & members: Free. Discounts available for qualifying guests. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. 18220 N. Hwy. 1, Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/5n9yy64p.
FREE Sundays in the Park Concert Series. Aug. 11: Blitzen Trapper. Aug. 18: Mustache Harbor. Blanket
or low-back chairs only. Food/drinks available for purchase or bring picnic. Sundays. 6–8 p.m. Todd Grove Park. 600 Live Oak Ave., Ukiah. cityofukiah. com/sundaysinthepark.
Monday 12
FREE Back-to-School Bash. The River Ukiah & The ARRC are
proud to bring you another year of back-to-school giveaways including backpacks, bikes, haircuts, gift cards, & more. 2–6 p.m. Alex Rorabaugh Recreation Center. 1640 S. State St., Ukiah. tinyurl.com/25k8nct4
Tuesday 13
FREE String & Shadow Puppet Theater, Or So It Would Seam.
or low-back chairs only. Gates: 7 p.m. Movie starts at dusk. Ukiah Municipal Pools. 511 Park Blvd., Ukiah. tinyurl. com/39dbmdhp
(Almost) Full Sturgeon Moon Tour. Beverages & snacks provided. $50. Reservations must be made by phone no later than 3:30 p.m. three days before event. Gates opens: 7:30 p.m. Tour: 8 p.m. Point Arena Lighthouse. 45500 Lighthouse Rd., Point Arena. For reservations: 877–725–4448. pointarenalighthouse.com/visit.
FREE Concerts on the Green. Featuring Breaker One 9. Blanket or low-back chairs only. Food/drinks for purchase. 5–8 p.m. Hidden Valley Lake Practice Green. 19210 Hartman Rd., Hidden Valley. tinyurl. com/2xjdua3v.
FREE Reggae at the Lake Summer Music Series. Kava Jah & the Remedy. Blanket or low-back chairs only. All ages welcome. Food/drinks available for purchase. Gates: 6 p.m. Music: 7 p.m. Konocti Vista Casino. 2755 Mission Rancheria Rd., Lakeport. thebloom.news/big-calendar.
Sunday 18
Annual Summer Chamber Concert. Presented by the Lake County Symphony Association. Free for Symphony season ticket holders & youth under the age of 18. General admission: $15. 2 p.m. Soper Reese
Theatre. 275 S. Main St., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/admx6nuv
Saturday 24
Nature Walk guided tour led by Horticulturist Paul Ruiz-Lopez. Cost included with Museum admission. $8–$20. Ages 5 & under: Free. Discounts available
for qualifying guests. Held the 4th Saturday of the month. 10 a.m.–Noon. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. 18220 N. Hwy. 1, Fort Bragg. Reservations required: tinyurl.com/ yc7eh7du
FREE Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians Annual Big Time. Tribal
cultural event featuring Pomo dancers, kids’ activities, & art vendors. Food available for purchase. Alcohol- & drug-free event. 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 7130 Red Hills Rd., Kelseyville. tinyurl. com/29kxzuhu
The Fourth Annual Blackberry Cobbler Festival. Presenting local musicians, artisans, and community organizations, plus vendors selling everything from blackberry scented soaps and candles to blackberry infused vinegars and baked goods. 11 a.m.—5 p.m. Belmont Pines. 16451 Golf Rd., Cobb. tinyurl.com/h9kxtdh6.
FREE Great Day in Elk Annual Fundraiser. Carnival, live entertainment, greased pole climbing, & watermelon-eating contests, silent auction, cake raffle, & more. No-host bar, fresh cider, & abundant food options available for purchase. Noon–7 p.m. Parade: Noon. Greenwood Community Center. 6129 Hwy.1, Elk. tinyurl.com/yd6myet3.
FREE Movie, Vendor Fair, & Car Show. Fair opens: 4 p.m. Screening of American Graffiti begins: Dusk. Clearlake Recreation & Events. 14077 Lakeshore Dr., Clearlake. tinyurl. com/3fdueauw
Sunday 25
FREE 4th Annual CMAS Adventure Camp. Ages 7–16. Outdoor hands-on art & science activities. Limited to 60 students & spaces fill up fast. Parent volunteers & students earning community hours welcome. 11:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Clear Lake Campground. 7805 Cache Creek Way, Clearlake. (Parking: Top of the hill upon entrance.) Volunteer: 707-295-1030 or info@cmaslakecounty.org. Register: tinyurl.com/2te2vx7y.
Thursday 29
Lake County Fair. Family fun, live music, vendor, & food booths. Local beer/wine available for purchase.
$4–$9. Ages 5 & under: Free. Carnival wristband tickets: Add’l fee. Aug. 31: 6–11 p.m. Sept. 1: 4–11 p.m. Sept. 2 & 3: 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Lake County Fairgrounds. 401 Martin St., Lakeport. lakecountyfair.com.
Friday 30
FREE Paul Bunyan Days. Kiddie games, craft fair, parade, logging show, contests, classic car show, gem & mineral show, vendor & food booths. Thru Sept. 2. See website for schedule & event venues. visitfortbraggca.com/ paul-bunyan-days.
Saturday 31
17th annual Blue Wing Blues Festival. Featuring blues vocalist Otilia Donaire, & John Primer & his band, plus a BBQ dinner. $75. 6–9 p.m. Blue Wing Restaurant. 9520 Main St., Upper Lake. tallmanhotel.com
Monthly Neurodiversity Night. An evening of advocacy, connection, & play. Meet & greet with local experts. Pizza, while supplies last. $15 admission (scholarships available). Redwood Coast Regional Center members admitted free. Come and go between 4:30–7 p.m. 203 S. State St., Ukiah. menodleap.com.
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Roadtrip Rules
Dad’s All-American Summer
By Shannon Carpenter
When Dad loads up the family and gets behind the wheel of the family automobile any time between June and August, you can bet his sites are set on the all-American summer road trip. Like Chevy Chase in the classic 80’s film National Lampoon’s Vacation, Dad has certain expectations that undoubtedly will not be met. Nevertheless, he will hold on to hope that the following rules will lead to an unforgettable experience (especially for him)!
1. We will make good time.
2. We will make good mileage.
3. We will make good sandwiches.
4. Content that will be allowed on the radio: Talk radio with concerning views, books on tape but only if they pertain to the Civil War, and grunge music.
5. Content that will not be allowed on the radio: Any artist whose name
sounds like a verb or a swear word to his delicate ears. Examples include Dua Lipa, Ginuwine, Doja Cat. (Yes, Dad had to Google those names.)
6. It is the responsibility of the children to make sure the tire pressure stays EXACTLY at 32PSI and this must be checked at EVERY rest stop.
7. We get there when we get there.
8. We will stop at any and every sign that declares that something important once happened at this location. Wagon ruts from the Oregon trail? Stopping. A dog that died building the Hoover Dam. 100 percent stopping. The Home of Sliced Bread? Absolutely will be stopping. Even if we’ve already visited a “world famous” site? Let’s do it again.
9. Dry saltine crackers are a great snack.
10. If we don’t use air conditioning, we will save on gas. Use your sweat to
cool you off, just like Dad did when he was a kid!
11. We will not pack name-brand soda. You will drink your Shasta and like it!
12. The minivan is not overheating, it’s just breathing violently. Turning the radio up is a solution.
13. When Dad shares a pointless story about childhood and how hard it was because the internets didn’t exist and kids had to play outside and knew the value of hard work and there was a hill that had snow on it … just nod along like you’ve not heard it before.
14. Dad is not napping. He’s just resting his eyes for a bit. While driving. Let’s stop for coffee.
15. When we stop at a roadside fruit stand, yes, we will spend an hour talking to the proprietors. Get comfortable, this is going to be an interesting conversation about fertilizer.
16. The car game we will play, and the only one we will play, is “Hey kids, how long do you think it took them to build this random bridge?”
17. You will have a single dollar to spend on souvenirs.
18. We will eat in a sit-down restaurant only once. And when we do, you can only order water.
19. Don’t touch that.
20. If at all possible, don’t tell Mom. Shannon Carpenter is a professional humorist and the author of The Ultimate Stay-at-Home Dad: Your Essential Manual for Being an Awesome Full-Time Father
