From Spring Break to St. Patrick’s Day, fun is in bloom this month! Even if there’s no vacation planned, families can enjoy an entertaining and frugal staycation with the ideas offered in this issue (page 16). Some simple St. Paddy’s games will leave you feeling lucky and you may even walk away with something green (page 18). If celebrations or just everyday activities seem to leave your little ones with tummy troubles, we have advice and solutions (page 20), and even share a keto soup recipe
that may help (page 7) — or at least sneak some veggies into their diet! With Spring in the air, your thoughts may turn to summer camp plans and researching schools for the fall. This edition shares seven reasons to send your kid to camp for parents who may be undecided (page 14). An article with guidelines for choosing the perfect day- or preschool outlines ways to determine which school is the best fit for your child and family (page 10).
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St. Paddy’s Day Green Soup
Keto Veggie Dish
Celebrated March 17, St. Patrick’s Day recognizes its namesake, a patron saint of Ireland who was abducted at age 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave worker. He managed to escape, but later returned to Ireland to create churches, monasteries, and schools. Because of his efforts and the lore surrounding them — including myths that he explained the Trinity with a shamrock and also drove the snakes out of the country — St. Paddy’s celebrations, with feasts and religious services, take place on his death date every year.
The Americanized version of St. Patrick’s Day includes wearing green to avoid being pinched by leprechauns, who are unable to see you if you’re wearing the signature color of Ireland, also called the Emerald Isle. The holiday just may be your chance to introduce kids to an actual green meal, too! This keto veggie-packed soup is a great way to get your veggies in by the spoonful, and is brought to you by Zoup! Good, Really Good Veggie Broth! ❖
1. In a medium to large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the celery, garlic and ginger and cook for a few minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the broccoli, spinach, coconut milk, turmeric, and veggie broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and cook for 10 minutes or until broccoli has softened.
3. Blend in a blender until smooth. Serve each bowl with Greek yogurt, pumpkin seeds, and cilantro, season to taste with salt and pepper. Enjoy!
Call for Sculpture Entries
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens partners with the Arts Council of Mendocino County to present an exhibition of sculptures placed throughout the 47–acre botanical garden. The Sculpture Exhibit features a rotating collection of up to 10 pieces. The garden sees more than 100,000 visitors each year who are able to enjoy the interaction between artwork, nature, and the changing seasons. Seize the chance to showcase your artwork to a new audience and exhibit among the dramatic blooms. Deadline for entry is Monday, March 31. Learn how to exhibit your sculptures at tinyurl.com/3nd5td38
Seed Saving and Swap
Browse local seeds, learn to clean seeds, and meet new friends. Bring your own saved seeds and plants or your leftover open-pollinated seeds to swap. We will also have locally contributed seeds to share. While you’re here, you can join the Mendocino County Seed Circle! Seed Circle is a joint effort to increase local plant diversity. Saturday, March 15, from 2–4 p.m. Fort Bragg Library. 499 E. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. Email fortbragglibrary@gmail.com or call (707) 964–2020 with questions. Visit tinyurl.com/2r95tzyb to learn more.
Celebrating Spring’s Equinox
Connect with the renewal of nature as you explore tide-pools by day, uncovering the hidden wonders of the coastline at the year’s most vibrant time. As dusk falls, gather around the fire pit for s’mores, sharing stories, and stargazing into the crisp evening sky. Saturday, March 22, guided tide-pooling at 12:30 p.m., plus s’mores by the fire from 6–8 p.m. Saturday, March 29, tidepool exploration at 5:30 p.m. followed by s’mores and stargazing from 6–8 p.m. Self-guided weekdays. Mar Vista Farm + Cottages, 35101 CA-1, Gualala. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/59zfpkch.
Mar Vista Farm + Cottages
The Sculpture Exhibit
Seed Swap and Plant Exchange
An Enchanted Dance
Mendocino Coast Recreation & Park District brings back its traditional Father/ Daughter Family Dance to the North Coast. Fort Bragg Town Hall transforms for the theme, Enchantment in Paris. There will be mock villages to discover, memorabilia distributed, and classic hits to dance to. This special event is open to all families — fathers, daughters, mothers, sons, and friends alike. Dress to impress! Sunday, March 9 from 5–7 p.m. Cost is $10 per person online or $12 per person at the door. Town Hall. 363 N. Main St., Fort Bragg. Purchase tickets at tinyurl.com/yfe7pc7k
Whale War Exhibit
Visit the Kelley House Museum during March for a special exhibit about the Mendocino Whale War, started by a group of locals who launched the first Whale Festival to educate the public about the plight of endangered whales on the coast. Posters, photographs, and clippings will be on display, along with a slideshow from founding member and photographer Nicholas Wilson. $5 suggested donation. Fridays-Sundays, March 1–31. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Kelley House Museum. 45007 Albion St., Mendocino. Learn more at tinyurl.com/rdjnt7xc
Matilda The Musical
Lake County Theatre Company presents a musical based on author Roald Dahl’s 1988 book, Matilda. LCTC shares the stage adaptation, telling the story of a brilliant young girl who uses her amazing abilities to overcome difficult circumstances. The musical features catchy songs and a theme of resilience in the face of adversity. Appropriate viewing for all ages. Performances are Friday–Sunday, March 7–9 and 14–16. Fridays: 7 p.m. Saturdays: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sundays 2 p.m. Doors open 30 minutes in advance of showtime. Cost: $17 in advance; $22 at the door. Soper Reese Theatre. 275 S. Main St., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/2u4cr3rv
PHOTO BY
Matilda rehearsal
Father/Daughter Family Dance
Early Education
Choosing the Perfect Day School or Preschool
By Rebecca Hastings
We were running errands when one of my teenagers shouted and pointed, “Look! It’s our old preschool!” Soon my other two teens were chiming in, “I loved it there!” and “That was my favorite school. Do you remember when...”
And just like that, we were walking down a memory lane of craft projects, field trips, and even that time when the teacher helped with a loose tooth that just wouldn’t budge. It made me happy that my kids remembered their days there as fondly as I did. Finding a preschool — or before that, a day school — may seem stressful but when you focus on the right things, you can find the perfect place for you and your kids. Here are seven tips to help you find a day school or preschool your kids will remember:
1. Talk to other children. At the park, at the library, at your friend’s house. Find out what the kids loved doing on a given day or their favorite thing about day school or preschool. Ask to see their latest project. Most kids will be thrilled to share their expertise. You can learn a lot from kids if you pay attention.
2. Talk to parents. See what day/ preschool they love and why. Find out if they are friends with other families there. Ask about the caregivers and teachers that make them great. The most important thing is to talk to real people. Don’t rely on social media for accurate information.
3. Consider the schedule. Does the day/preschool have a schedule that works for your family? The days and hours must align with your family schedule, but also with your child’s preferences. There are day and preschools with two-day-a-week
Finding
a preschool — or before that, a day school
—
may seem stressful
but when you focus on the right things, you can find the perfect place for you and your kids.
programs and others that meet five days a week. Some schools meet for two hours while others are the whole day. Think about what you and your child would benefit from.
4. Ask about educational philosophy. Every day/preschool has a unique approach. Some schools focus heavily on academics while others focus on social skills. Some schools stress nature-based learning while others focus on the arts. Some day schools emphasize
education more than others. Don’t get caught up in what these approaches are called, but think about your child and how their interests line up with what the day/ preschool offers.
5. Talk money. The cost must work for your family. Consider tuition costs as well as extras like fundraisers, field trips, and parties. Be bold about asking these questions before you choose a day/preschool so you are not stressed later about unexpected expenses. Finding a program that your family can afford will create a less stressful environment for you and your child.
6. Find out about parent involvement. Ask how much parents are expected to be involved
and make sure it is something you are comfortable with. Some schools ask parents to volunteer regularly during the day while others only invite parents for holiday and year-end
programs. Extras like fundraising or events can also be a requirement. Day schools may have their own parental involvement guidelines, too. Find out what is expected so you know if you can participate at that level.
7. Ask to observe. See if there is a good time for you and your child
to visit during the day. Watching the facility in action is one of the best ways to discover if it will be a good fit. Chat with some parents at drop-off or pick-up. Observe the kids as they work together. All of it fits together to create the atmosphere where your child will learn.
Finding the perfect daycare or preschool doesn’t have to be stressful. Be realistic about your family’s needs and how they match up with the facility. With these simple tips, you can discover a learning environment that will be perfect for your child. ❖
Rebecca is a published author and former teacher passionate about authenticity, faith, and family. In real life, she can often be found typing words, or driving her kids places. Connect with her at RebeccaHastings.net and on Instagram.
Camp is Calling
Seven Reasons to Send Your Kids
By Mary Ann Blair
With summer calendars quickly filling up, it can be hard to try and squeeze in one more thing. But if you have never sent your kids to a summer camp, here are seven reasons why you should consider it!
With so many options, it’s easy to find a great fit for your child.
From sports camps and art camps to STEM-based camps and more traditional overnight options, summer camps are designed to serve a variety of ages and interests. The length of camp can range from a few mornings for younger kiddos to week long sleep-away camps for older kids. Local churches, school districts, and other organizations like the YMCA, Girl
Scouts, Boy Scouts, Camp Fire, and 4-H offer a wide range of camps. With a little bit of research, you can easily find a camp well-suited for your child.
Camps provide kids with experiences they might not have access to in “everyday” life. Horseback riding. Paddling a canoe across the lake. Wilderness survival. Conquering a ropes course. Sleeping under the stars. Adventures are endless at camp, and your
child will have an opportunity to try something brand new. For the youngest campers, trying a new craft activity or learning a new camp song can be so much fun!
Camps are a safe place to practice social skills. It might be awkward or uncomfortable for your child during those first few hours of
With a little bit of research, you can easily find a camp well-suited for your child.
camp when they don’t know a single soul. After all, stepping into a new social environment can be challenging. But the ability to comfortably communicate with new people is a life skill that all kids need, and a camp is a great place to practice! Camps also provide kids an opportunity to form friendships with a whole new group of peers they might never have met otherwise.
Camps give kids a muchneeded technology break. No matter how old your child is, they could probably benefit from a screen hiatus, especially during the summer months. Spending time outdoors, learning a new skill, having fun, and forming new friendships is good for the body and soul!
Sending kids to camp is beneficial for you, too. Driving away from your child(ren) on the first day might be a little gut-wrenching. But entrusting your kids to someone else for a while can be truly beneficial. Maybe it will free up time for some overdue self-care, or give you and your
Camps are staffed by amazing counselors who provide kids with all kinds of good, clean fun.
partner time to reconnect. Maybe it will provide an opportunity to hit the reset button with your tween or teen. After all, absence makes the heart grow fonder! Parenting is tough work, so don’t feel guilty if you enjoy this time to yourself. Chances are, your kids are having a blast without you!
Your child’s experience as a camper could help land a summer job in the future. Camps are staffed by amazing counselors who provide kids with all kinds of good, clean fun. Most of these counselors were campers once, too. Now they get to help a new set of youngsters make unforgettable summer memories, all while sharpening their own teamwork and
leadership skills. Your child might have that same opportunity one day. What a great way to spend a summer!
Camp is just plain fun. So many adults have fond memories from their days spent at camp, and kids who have been to camp often say it’s a favorite
part of their summer. Odds are, your kids are going to love it! And for that reason alone, it’s worth sending them to camp. ❖
Mary Ann Blair is a mom of two boisterous boys. Besides chronicling her adventures in motherhood at maryannblair.com, she loves the outdoors, reading, and all things crafty.
Find Your Fit with MCRPD!
From martial arts to fitness classes, we have something for everyone! Drop in for $20 anytime or take advantage of our flexible punch cards perfect for your busy schedule.
10 class pass for $170 / 5 class pass for $85
Brazilian JiuJitsu
HIIT Fusion
Taekwondo
Subtle Body Movement
Cardio, Tone & Sweat
Barre Fitness
Intermediate & Advanced Ballet
Japanese JuJutsu
Mobility & Stability
MixxedFit & Barre Toning
Spring Staycation
Fun and Frugal Ideas for Families
By Jill Morgenstern
Spring break can be both a blessing and a curse as parents try to make each year more memorable than the next. This pressure to provide a fun-filled vacation can be particularly true when both parents are working.
While summer break is full of sleepaway camps and day camps, there can be fewer options during spring break. But spring break does not have to be lavish and over the top to be memorable. By having an inventive staycation in your own home, you don’t have to break the bank to have a great time. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Have a karaoke night. If you don’t have a karaoke machine, there’s a chance that a friend has one you
could borrow. Not only that, but these days there are karaoke apps you can use on your phone!
Build blanket forts galore. Now is the time to get out maybe not the prettiest pillows, but at least the bulkiest ones. And once the fort is built, activities planned for inside become that much more exciting — board games, reading time, or even a movie night if the screen is small enough or the fort big enough!
The key is to have an open mind and a sense of fun.
Create a mini indoor golf course. What? You have no golf clubs? Even better! Let the children use their imagination to make something they might use. Paper towel rolls could be turned into golf clubs, for example. And who says the golf ball has to be one certain size?
Have a DIY home spa day. No need to go bankrupt if you already have nail polish or bath bombs on hand. Plus the Korean masks that are so popular right now can be bought for under $10. No Korean skincare store or Asian store in your area? You can find them on Amazon or even sometimes at Walmart!
Make homemade ice cream. If you want to splurge, it can be great fun for kids to see ice cream being made in a real ice cream maker. But if not, they can still have the satisfaction of creating their own sweet treat! Look
on YouTube for plenty of instructive videos on how to make single serving ice creams in sandwich bags. Pitch a tent nearby. If you happen to have a back yard, a strong sense of adventure, and favorable weather, this activity will be sure to make your spring break memorable. Use your senses to enjoy the outdoors — look for stars, smell the outdoors, listen for leaves blowing or critters crawling, all while knowing that, if necessary, a warm bed and hot shower can be only moments away.
Have a scavenger hunt. These can take a little while to set up initially (you provide clues to get from one destination to the next until players finally find a prize at
the end) but children love them. Done often enough, children will start doing them for each other and if you’re lucky, they may make one for you!
By having an inventive staycation in your own home, you don’t have to break the bank to have a great time.
Create and perform a family play. Especially if mom and dad are both working, this can give children something to do during the day, culminating in an after-dinner performance that everyone can enjoy.
By participating in these activities, or ones you think of on your own, a spring break vacation can be just as memorable and meaningful as an extravagant vacation, but without the extravagant cost. The key is to have an open mind and a sense of fun. It can be challenging to fit in the time for fun activities but as children mature they will take on more and more of the responsibilities for making their spring break a time to remember — thanks to parents who inspired them to do so! ❖
Teacher and writer Jill Morgenstern has four children and a Master’s Degree in teaching reading. Visit her at linktr.ee/JillMorgenstern
hachi bu!
People living in Okinawa, Japan, have a wise strategy for maintaining a healthy weight. Before every meal, they say "Hara Hachi Bu," which means, "I will stop eating when I am 80% full." This mealtime mantra can help you be more mindful, cut calories, and lead to better health and longevity.
Feeling Lucky?
Super Simple Games for St. Patrick’s Day
By Pam Molnar
St. Patrick’s Day is a pretty easy party to host. You ask everyone to come dressed in green, you serve festive green foods and drinks and you play some Irish music in the background. Now the only thing you need to make your party a success is some St. Patrick’s-themed games. Looks like you’ve come to the right place!
1. Throw Me the Money: Fill a canvas bag with coins – pennies will work nicely – and tie it closed. Players stand in a circle, with the reader holding the bag. A St. Patrick’s themed question (i.e. Name a food that is green) is read and the bag is tossed to the person who answered (correctly) first. That person is now the reader and the bag holder cannot answer the question, allowing someone else to get a chance. If
anyone answers incorrectly, they are out. Have a prize for the last person standing.
2. What’s in the Bag: This game is like the game Spoons in that you will need a spoon for every player, minus one. You will also need one lunch-sized paper bag for every two players filled with a variety of St. Patrick’s or green items like shamrocks, gold coins
and green pom-poms. Place the bags in front of every other person.
On “go,” the players choose something inside the bag and pass the bag to the next player. The bags continue around until a player finds four of that same item and they grab for a spoon. Like in the game Spoons, everyone else grabs a spoon quickly and the one without a spoon is out. Offer a small prize for the winner.
Play for a set time or number of rounds and give a prize to the person with the most points.
3. Competitive Hot Potato:
This is such a simple game and only requires one potato. Traditionally, players pass the potato around in a circle while music plays. When the music stops, the one holding the potato is out. If that is too simple for your group, you can add a challenge.
Ask everyone to stand in two lines across from each other, tossing back and forth. If the potato is dropped, the catcher is out. To make it more difficult, start every new round by taking a step back. You can also play with your eyes closed, pouring a smaller potato from cup to cup or play with a carrot and a potato going in opposite directions around the circle.
4. Tic Tac Gold: You will need gold and green plastic coins for this game. Set up a Tic Tac Toe board on the counter or table with tape. Players will slide their coins across the table
to try and get three in a row. If one player slides his coin into a space that is already occupied, he gets to remove his opponent’s coin. This can also be played with a bigger game board (four or five in a row) and more players. However, this game will take a little longer.
5. You’re One Lucky Spella: For this game, you will need Scrabble tiles and a cup for each player. You will also need a list of St. Patrick’s Day words. The tiles are laid out upside down in the middle of the table. For each round, players choose 10 tiles without looking at them and put them in their cup. On “go,” players dump out their cups and try to make a St. Patrick’s Day word out of their tiles within
a minute. Players get one point for each letter they use. The player with the most points at the end of the game is the winner.
6. Rollin’ for Coins: This game is great for larger groups as it is played in tables of four. Each player will need a score sheet. For each table, you will
The only thing you need to make your party a success is some St. Patrick’s-themed games.
need a pair of dice and a suit of cards 2-Queen only. Cards are laid out face up in order in the middle of the table. Players take turns rolling the dice and removing the corresponding card
— Take the six when you roll 2 threes, 1 and 5 or 2 and 4.
The next player rolls and takes their corresponding card. Play continues until a player rolls a number that has already been removed. When that happens, the roller must give all his other collected cards (if any) to the player holding that card. At that point, the round is over and players tally their scores — a point for each value rolled. Switch tables as you would for bunco. Play for a set time or number of rounds and give a
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!
Enforcing spousal support orders in conjunction with child support
Providing a monthly accounting of what is owed and due
Locating the other parent and assets
Obtaining child support orders
Enforcing child support orders
Modifying child support orders
Establish parentage including genetic testing
Providing individualized case management/help with navigating the child support and spousal support arena
Tummy Troubles Common Causes and Treatments
By Sarah Lyons
Tummy troubles are common in young children and typically aren’t serious. Stomach aches can be anything from constipation to stomach flu to an excuse to get out of school. The tricky part is figuring out if the stomach pain warrants a trip to the doctor and if it is something serious or a passing thing. Here are some common childhood tummy troubles and what to do about them.
Constipation. It’s common for kids to have occasional constipation. This is usually something that can be improved by a higher fiber diet or by using over-the-counter stool softeners or laxatives. Decreasing foods that cause constipation like bananas, milk, and cheese can also be helpful. (mayoclinic.org) Physical activity can also encourage the need to use the bathroom. If your child has chronic constipation that is not improving, speak to your doctor for more suggestions or ask for a referral to a gastrointestinal physician.
Stomach flu. The stomach flu is an unavoidable part of childhood.
Even with all the hand sanitizer in the world, your child is bound to catch it at some point. While a GI bug is miserable for both the parents and the child, it doesn’t usually warrant a trip to the doctor. During the virus it’s normal to have a fever, vomiting, and/or diarrhea. The most important thing to remember during a stomach bug is to keep your child hydrated. Children, especially babies and toddlers are more likely to get dehydrated during the stomach flu which can be dangerous. If your child cannot eat during the flu, make sure they are drinking small sips of clear liquids as much as possible. If the bug
persists longer than a few days and you feel your child is becoming dehydrated, see your doctor as soon as possible.
Gas. A common cause of stomach pain in children comes from trapped gas. Gas pain can be painful and make your child uncomfortable. If your child has frequent pain from gas, try changing their diet slightly. For example, many people with frequent gas are lactose intolerant. Reducing the intake of dairy products or trying lactose-free alternatives can help your child develop less gas-related stomach pain.
Acid reflux. Acid reflux, or heartburn, can be painful and persistent. If your child complains of a burning feeling in their upper abdomen or has a vomit taste in their mouth, they may be experiencing acid reflux. Try an over-the-counter antacid, a glass of milk, or prop up their pillow at night. You can also watch the foods they eat before bedtime. Acidic foods like tomato sauce, sugary, sweet foods, spicy foods, and chocolate can all be triggers for heartburn. If none of these ideas help, consult your doctor who can prescribe medication for acid reflux and make sure nothing more serious is going on.
For the most part, childhood stomach pains are not anything to be concerned about. However, if your child has symptoms that persist over time, has unexplained weight loss, has blood in their vomit or stool, or doesn’t seem to be improving, there is nothing wrong with reaching out to your family doctor for advice on what the next steps should be. ❖
Sarah Lyons is a mom of six children, including 10-year-old triplets. She enjoys reading, writing, and spending time outdoors with her family.
March Calendar of Events
Saturday 1
Sculpture Exhibit Call for Entries. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens partners with the Arts Council of Mendocino County to present an exhibition of sculptures placed throughout the 47-acre botanical garden. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. Ongoing throughout March. 18220 CA-1, Fort Bragg. Learn how to exhibit your sculptures at gardenbythesea.org/calendar/ sculpture-entries.
Saturday Market at The Mercantile. Fresh produce, crafts, live music, and
food options. Shop, picnic, taste wine. Rain or shine, year-round. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. 4350 Thomas Dr., Lakeport. lakeportmainstreet.com/events.
Mendocino Whale Festival. Chowder tasting ($20) and wine walk ($65). Both activities: $75. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Mendocino Coast Chamber
of Commerce. 217 S. Main St., Fort Bragg. mendocinocoast.com.
Mendocino Whale War Exhibit. Anniversary exhibit started by a group of locals who launched the first Whale Festival to educate the public about the plight of endangered whales on the coast. $5 suggested donation. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Kelley House Museum. 45007 Albion St., Mendocino. tinyurl.com/mr3ccbv2
Kids Craft Time. Fun crafts for kids of all ages. Supplies provided. Most first and third Saturdays. 11 a.m.–Noon. Fort Bragg Branch Library.
499 Laurel St., Fort Bragg. tinyurl. com/482p8mcw
Sunday 2
Northern Pomo: Mendocino’s First People. Explore the rich culture of the Northern Pomo, who have lived on the Mendocino Coast for thousands of years. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. various Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout March. Kelley House Museum. 45007 Albion St., Mendocino. tinyurl.com/ mw5vhwmb
Monday 3
Kelseyville Senior Center Walking Moai. 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Mondays. Gather at the Kelseyville Event Center, then drive to the Clearlake State Park for a walk. tinyurl.com/2s432ejj.
HeyPeers Support Groups. Offering a range of support groups throughout the month for challenges such as addiction, anxiety, caregiving, chronic illness, depression, grief and loss, parenting, and many more. For meeting times, visit heypeers.com/ support_groups
Wednesday 5
A Child, A Dog & A Good Book. Safe play with licensed and insured doggies who love kids. 3 p.m.–4 p.m. Ukiah Branch Library. 105 Main St., Ukiah. tinyurl.com/mk8cddym
Bad Art Paint & Sip. Adults of all skill levels, join us every first Wednesday of the month for mocktails and hilarity as we attempt to recreate actual works of art. 5:30–6:30 p.m. Redbud Library. 14785 Burns Valley Rd., Clearlake. tinyurl.com/yvv6754w.
Thursday 6
Museum Fundraiser. Ukiah Players Theatre annual evening
of live performance, featuring the Broadway musical sensation, Company Appetizers, wine, and softer beverages: 6 p.m. Curtain: 7 p.m. Dessert and coffee at intermission. Ukiah Players Theatre. 1041 Low Gap Rd., Ukiah gracehudsonmuseum.org.
Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson must crack the mystery before a family curse dooms its newest heir in this fast-paced comedy. Mendocino Theatre. 45200 Little Lake St., Mendocino. Tickets: $30. Thursdays-Saturdays, March 6-April
39TH ANNUAL MENDOCINO COUNTY
SCIENCE & ENGINEERING FAIR & STEAM EXPO
MARCH 15, 10AM-4PM
Mendocino College • 1000 Hensley Creek Rd, Ukiah
Dive into a world of wonder at the Mendocino County Science & Engineering Fair & STEAM Expo! Enjoy free hands-on activities, engaging booths, and captivating displays for kids of all ages. Bring the whole family to this celebration of science!
THIS IS A FREE EVENT, BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY!
mendosciencefair@mcoe.us • bit.ly/mendoscience
6. Showtimes and tickets: tinyurl. com/43v2aane
Friday 7
Rhododendron Walks. More than 1,000 rhododendrons can be seen blooming throughout the Gardens during peak bloom in March and April. Fridays. 1–3 p.m. Mendocino Botanical Gardens. 18220 N. Hwy. 1, Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/yc5ky54t
Skate Night. 5–7 p.m.: Younger kids. 7–9 p.m.: Older kids. With your own skates: $5. Skate rental: $8. Mendocino Coast Recreation and Park District, Old Rec Building. 100 N. Main St., Fort Bragg. mendocoastrec.org/skate-night.
Matilda The Musical. Lake County Theatre Company presents Roald Dahl’s Matilda. Friday-Sunday,
March 7–9 and 14–16. Fridays: 7 p.m. Saturdays: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sundays 2 p.m. Cost: $17 in advance; $22 at the door. Soper Reese Theatre. 275 S. Main St., Lakeport. tinyurl. com/2u4cr3rv.
Saturday 8
FREE Nature Walk. Guided garden walks. No pets. 8:30–10 a.m. Anderson Marsh State Historic Park. 8825 Hwy. 53. 8400 CA-53, Lower Lake. thebloom.news/big-calendar
Storytime. For ages 2-7. Join us for a story (or two, or three) followed by a simple craft, game, or activity. Most Saturdays. 11 a.m.–11:30 p.m. Round Valley Branch Library. 23925 Howard St., Round Valley. tinyurl. com/553pv7ye.
FREE Preschool Dance Party. Kids, 0-6 and their grown-ups. Come and dance to your heart’s content, maybe catch a bubble or two. 2–3 p.m. Fort Bragg Library. 499 E. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. For more detials, contact fortbragglibrary@gmail.com.
Crab Cioppino Feed. Lower Lake Community Action Group’s primary scholarship fundraiser assisting young adults of the community as they start their college journey. $70 per person; $750 for table of 8. 5–11 p.m. Clearlake Callayomi Masonic Lodge, 7100 South Center Dr., Clearlake. tinyurl.com/4tp9mufz
Sunday 9
Father-Daughter/Family Dance. Mendocino Coast Recreation and Parks District presents Enchantment
in Paris, dancing, music, and memories. Tickets per person: $10 online; $12 at the door. 5-7 p.m. Town Hall. 363 N. Main St., Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/yfe7pc7k.
Tuesday 11
FEC Play Group. Fun activities, emotional connections, cognitive and social skill development for newborn to preschoolers with a parent or guardian. Second Tuesday of every month. 3–4:30 p.m. FFRC Center. 16170 Main St., Suite D. Lower Lake. tinyurl.com/2pdtmfme
Wednesday 12
Field Guide to North American Wildlife video lectures. Through March 26. No sign-up required. Drop-ins welcome. 1:30–3 p.m. Coast Community Branch Library.
225 Main St., Pt. Arena. tinyurl. com/458xhapc
FREE Creative Writing Workshop. A monthly workshop taught by published authors. Each month will feature a different genre/style/or theme. This month: Flash, Smash, Twist — Creating Short-Short Memoir and Fiction — with Karen Lewis. Open to all adults. Bring notebooks and pencils. 2–3:30 p.m. Fort Bragg Library. 499 E. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. For more details, email fortbragglibrary@gmail.com
Thursday 13
FREE Cookbook Club. Prepare, share, and critique recipes. Learn about new cookbooks at the library. Also available via Zoom. Noon–1 p.m. Lake County Library. 1425 N. High
St., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/y58p6tfj.
Writer’s Circle. Bring unpublished work to share for feedback and inspiration. All levels. Second Thursdays. 5–7 p.m. Main Street Gallery. 325 N. Main St., Lakeport.
Friday 14
FREE Whale Welcome Ceremony. Musical offerings, a sunset ceremony, and words of gratitude from community members to kick off the whale season in the region. 6–8 p.m. Crow’s Nest, 331 Jere Melo St., Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/32vjtp9c
Saturday 15
FREE Mendocino County Annual Sciences & Engineering Fair. Students in grades 3–12 compete. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Mendocino College
Gym. Ukiah. 1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah. bit.ly/mendosci
Walk the Whale Trail. Every Saturday, March 15–April 5. Volunteers along the bluffs to loan out binoculars and help point out the migrating gray whales passing by. Three walking tours on those Saturdays, too. Point Cabrillo Light Station. 13800 Point Cabrillo Dr, Mendocino. tinyurl.com/4ettd9wn.
Aging, Dying, & Afterlife
Discussion Group. Read and discuss books about aging and dying peacefully. Third Saturday of each month. Noon–2 p.m. Upper Lake Library. 310 Second St., Upper Lake. Join: (707) 772-9252 or greenwomansgardens@gmail.com.
Symphony of the Redwoods Spring Concert. The theme of water unifies favorite classics with orchestral virtuosic masterpieces and a rhythmic American premiere in this 40th anniversary conclusion. Saturday: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, March 16: 2 p.m. Cotton Auditorium, 500 N. Harold St., Fort Bragg. symphonyoftheredwoods.org/ concert-3.php
Wine Walk. Merchants serving Mendocino County wines and hors d’ oeuvres while you stroll shops in downtown Fort Bragg. Live music. Visit the new Coastal Trail where you might catch a migrating gray whale. Tickets: Noon–4 p.m. $50 ahead and $60 day of the event. Must be 21. Downtown Fort Bragg. visitfortbraggca.com/ whale-fest-wine-walk.
Tuesday 18
Family Game Time. Board/card games and/or Nintendo Switch games provided. All ages welcome. 2:30–4 p.m. Lake County Library. 1425 N. High St., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/ yc2n9ej3.
Wednesday 19
Kids Craft. Third Wednesday of every month, all four Lake County Library branches hold this event. Contact your favorite branch for details. Supplies may be limited. Registration is required.
Thursday 20
Virtual Author Talk. How Women’s Liberation Transformed America: In Conversation with Clara Bingham. 11 a.m.–Noon. Register and send
questions to the author: libraryc.org/ mendolibrary/68855
Saturday 22
Celebrating Spring’s Equinox. Guided tide-pooling and stargazing, plus complimentary s’mores. March 22: Tide-pooling 12:30 p.m.; s’mores by the fire 6:30-8 p.m. March 29: Tide-pooling 5:30 p.m., s’mores and stargazing 6-8 p.m. Mar Vista Farm & Cottages. 35101 CA-1, Gualala. tinyurl. com/59zfpkch
FREE Spring Gardening with Sakina. Learn the basics of preparing gardens for spring. 10–11:30 a.m. Fort Bragg Library. 499 E. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. Contact: fortbragglibrary@ gmail.com or (707) 964-2020.
Wednesday 26
Stronger Together Grief Support Group. Loss support to community members of all ages. Fourth Wednesday of every month. 2–3:30 p.m. Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce. 14295 Lakeshore Blvd., Clear Lake. tinyurl.com/46fdp3hs
Thursday 27
Teen Gaming. Come to play, hang out, watch, and grab a snack. 4–6 p.m. Thursdays. Ukiah Branch Library. 105 Main St., Ukiah. tinyurl.com/ynjt7uzn.
Sunday 30
Concert with Conversation. Tallman Hotel presents Ben Rosenblum Trio. 3–4:30 p.m. Tickets: $35. Tallman Hotel Riffe’s Meeting House. 9550 Main St., Upper Lake. tinyurl.com/mwuscdur
Reading Month?
The Joke’s on Book-loving Mom
By Katy M. Clark
Another post on social media from a friend singing the praises of her child: “How lucky am I?” she wrote.
“My son finished Harry Potter and he’s only in second grade!”
“You are lucky,” I thought, damping down my jealousy. I can’t exactly post, “My son hates reading!” on social media. He’s a teenager, and I’ve waited years to admit publicly how much he loathes it. I felt that my son’s lack of interest in reading meant I was a bad mother.
The truth is kinder to me than I am to myself: Reading is a pursuit that he is not passionate about.
He can read. He doesn’t like to read. There’s a difference.
Ever since my son was born, I tried to instill in him a love of reading. In no particular order, here are the word-nurturing, pro-book,
literature-lovin’ experiences I exposed him to:
I read in front of him. I love to read!
I read to him. Daily from birth until third grade.
I took him to the library.
I took him to the bookstore.
I bought him books from the school book fairs.
I made sure his daycare was a developmentally-appropriate, NAEYC-accredited child care center chock full of book nooks, story times, and language-enrichment activities.
I signed those homework reading logs that came home every night from kindergarten through sixth grade. I chatted with him about books.
I bought him an e-reader.
Did I mention I read in front of him? I love to read!
For years, I’ve felt bad about his lack of fervor for reading, especially during National Reading Month. Until one day I stopped.
It was the day a mom came over to pick up her child from a play date with my youngest (who loves to read, by the way). I don’t remember how the topic of my son’s lack of interest in reading came up, but she shared her thoughts.
“I hate reading, too,” she commented. “It was never social enough for me. I always wanted to be doing something else.”
Here she was, a successful vice president at an international company with three lovely children, confessing that reading wasn’t for her.
What a relief! It was the first voice I heard that defied the cacophony telling me that I must get my child to love reading. That day I allowed
He can read. He doesn’t like to read. There is a difference.
myself to believe, to embrace even, that my son could succeed in life even though he doesn’t like to read.
Reading is not for my son. However, what is for my son is socializing with friends and family, chatting with anyone he meets, participating in classroom discussions, being a leader, playing sports, and being pretty great.
Maybe I should put that on social media. He can’t be embarrassed by such a post. Chances are he won’t even read it ❖
Katy M. Clark is a writer and mom of two who embraces her imperfections on her blog Experienced Bad Mom.
