Mendo Lake Family Life September 2023

We are sti in the fight against COV D. t has not yet bn defeated. t has bn knocked down, but not knocked out.

f you fl sick, stay home. Use masks and social distance when neceary.

We must be watchful, alert, and aware. We must know when to take action.

t is important to learn how to protect yourself and others.

arenting is difficult for anyone. But those who are raising children with unique needs can have a particularly tough time, especially during the school year. This issue is dedicated to them.

If your child is having trouble with school work, tutoring can be very effective. Written by a teacher, “Tutoring ABCs” (page 14) offers concrete advice on how to find the best assistance for your student.

For some kids, ADHD makes learning extra hard. “Everything in Its Place” (page 16), written by a mom with ADD, offers savvy organization

Ptips to help kids with attention issues stay on track with homework.

For other children, it’s not attention but mental health issues that lead to academic struggles. It can be tricky to figure out when a child is just going through an emotional-growth spurt or really needs to talk to a professional. Read “Does Your Child Need Therapy?” (page 18) to find out what signs to look for.

Whatever challenges your family is facing, we wish you strength, hope, and resilience.

Set Goals TRACK HABITS

Marketing/ Sales/Events

Patricia Ramos

707-205-1539

patty@family-life.us

Features Editor

Melissa Chianta

melissa@family-life.us

Production Manager

Donna Bogener

production@family-life.us

Contributing Writers

Shannon Carpenter

Tanni Haas

Kerrie McLoughlin

Karen Nochimowski

Isbell Oliva-Garcia

Jan Pierce

Billing

Jan Wasson-Smith

Publishing Office P.O. Box 351 Philo, CA 95466 (707) 205-1539

Sharon Gowan Publisher/Editor Sharon@family-life.us

Best Brisket

Only 5 Minutes to Prep

By Momma Chef

I’ll never forget the first time I enjoyed this marvelous dish. It was a holiday, and Aunt Gloria made brisket for our family party. It was a hit, particularly with cousin Amy, who was nine-and-a-half months (!) pregnant, and with me, who was four months along.

The following morning, I woke up craving the brisket for breakfast. Fortunately, my aunt had made so much of it that I knew there were plenty of leftovers. My mouth was watering and my baby was kicking in anticipation of enjoying another round of the ambrosial beef. Needless to say, I was none too happy to find out that my husband and my cousin Joey had scarfed down the entire two pounds as a 4 a.m. “snack” during a marathon video gaming session. That was 17 years ago, and I’ve almost forgiven them.

In any case, I adopted Aunt Gloria’s recipe, making a few minor changes so it fit more easily into my busy lifestyle. Are you surprised that her secret ingredient is a can of Coca-Cola? The sugar in the soda tenderizes the meat and adds wonderful sweetness (so do not use Diet Coke).

While the brisket may take a couple hours to cook, it only takes five minutes to get it in the oven or slow

Easiest (and Best) Old-Fashioned Brisket

Ingredients

• 1 3- to 4-pound beef brisket

• 1 1-ounce envelope onion soup mix (my favorite is Lipton)

• 1 12-ounce bottle Heinz Chili Sauce

• 2 cups ketchup

• 1 8-ounce package sliced mushrooms, optional

• 1 8-ounce can Coca-Cola

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 300°F.

2. Place brisket in disposable pan or slow cooker.

cooker, and then you can step away and enjoy the tantalizing aromas coming from your kitchen. Just make sure to hide the leftovers. ❖

Karen Nochimowski is the author of 6-Minute Dinners (& More!), a newly released cookbook filled with more than 100 simple recipes with six

3. Sprinkle onion soup mix over brisket, and top with chili sauce and ketchup.

4. Add mushrooms, pour Coca-Cola over everything, and add 1⁄2 cup water.

5. Bake brisket covered in oven for 4 hours or in slow cooker on low for 6 hours, until the meat is very tender.

6. Remove brisket from oven or slow cooker. Let come to room temperature before slicing, about 30 minutes.

7. Cut brisket against the grain before serving.

Serves: 6-8

or fewer ingredients, including nut-free and allergy-friendly options. Gloria Estefan, Alex Borstein, Katie Couric, Howie Mandel, Margaret Cho, Barbara Corcoran, and many others have written testimonials for it. Karen also started and runs Momma Chef’s Soup Kitchen and Momma Chef’s Little Free Pantries. Part of the proceeds from the cookbook will go towards feeding those facing food insecurity.

Arts UKIAH UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

GREAT THINGS ARE

NOW!

LEARN • INSPIRE • CREATE • GROW • COMMUNICATE • COLLABORATE • DEVELOP • INNOVATE 511 S. Orchard Ave. • 707-472-5000 • www.uusd.net

Apply

DISCOVER OUR LOWER SCHOOL PROGRAM (G1-8) WHERE EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING IS BALANCED WITH STRONG ACADEMICS

• Immersive, Discovery-Based Curriculum • Visual/Practical Arts & Music Programs

Team Sports Program

• Media Policy for Distraction-Free Learning

begin your child's journey

Grades

SEPT 13 | OCT 11 | NOV 8 | 9-11am

Applications online:

your child

at

little

Nurturing classroom experiences for children 3 months to 5 years old.

Potty-training assistance provided.

• Children with disabilities welcome.

• Accepting applications year-round. Foreign Languages: Spanish, German •

Ukiah

- Bush St

S Ukiah North Ukiah - Bush St Nokomis - Washington Ave South Ukiah - S State St Peach Tree - S Orchard Ave

School at Spruce

Near Brookside School at Spruce St & Lincoln Way Lake County Upper Lake - 2nd Street Lakeport - Lakeport Blvd Clearlake - Pearl Ave Clearlake - Meadowbrook Dr Coast Fort Bragg - Lincoln St Find out how we keep children and families safe by reviewing our COVID-19 Health and Safety Guidelines on our website.

Loggers Compete

Born in 1939, the Paul Bunyan Days festival originally put a spotlight on loggers and their skills. Since then, the festival has expanded to include many events not related to saws, but the Logging Show remains one of the big attractions. Men and women compete, for thousands of dollars, in tests of chopping, hand- and power-sawing, and axe-throwing; and there’s a Log Rolling Tournament as well. Besides the logging competitions, the festival boasts a parade, classic car show, craft fair, gem and mineral show, horseshoe tournament, and several activities for children, including tricycle races, games, and a special parade for kids. Paul Bunyan Days will be held September 1–4 in Fort Bragg. For a schedule of events and venues, go to paulbunyandays.com

Take a Trip to Pear-adise

The very first pear trees were planted in Lake County in the 1880s. Today, tons of the fruit are grown in the area; Kelseyville, in particular, produces 20 percent of all the pears harvested in California. And every year the town celebrates this agrarian accomplishment at the Kelseyville Pear Festival. The shin-dig features a parade, live music on three stages, an antique tractor display, arts and crafts market, and, of course, plenty of pear pastries and treats. This free festival will be held on September 30, 9 a.m.–4 p.m., on Main Street in Kelseyville. For more information, go to pearfestival.com.

To Burn with Chili Love

It is the mission of the Boys and Girls Club of Ukiah to enable young people, regardless of their circumstances, to reach their potential. To support its work, the nonprofit is holding a Chili Cook-Off. Sponsored by Granite Construction, the tasty event will feature local businesses cooking up their favorite chili recipes with the hopes of winning the People’s Choice award. Voted 2023 Best Event by Best of Lake and Mendocino magazine, the cook-off will be held on September 8, 6–10 p.m., at Alex R. Thomas Plaza in Ukiah. For details, go to facebook. com/granite-construction-chili-cook-off.

Chili Cook-Off

Kelseyville Pear Festival

Paul Bunyan Days (1939)

Taste Local Apples & Wine

Apples grow in abundance in the North Bay. And many varieties will be available for sampling at the Mendocino County Fair and Apple Show. In addition to fruit, the fair boasts a variety of events and activities, including wine and hard cider tastings, a CCPRA rodeo, classic car show, sheep dog trials, country music, and, of course, a carnival. The fair runs September 22–24, 9 a.m.–midnight, at the Mendocino County Fairgrounds in Boonville. Admission is $6–$10; ages 6 and younger get in free. An unlimited ride wristband is $35–$45. Food and wine tastings are an extra fee. Find out more at mendocountyfair.com/county-fair.

New Moms: Need Support?

New motherhood is extraordinarily stressful. Between sleep deprivation, isolation, and a mountain of responsibilities, it can be difficult for women to cope. The Lake Family Resource Center knows how tough it can be. That’s why the nonprofit is hosting Mothers and Babies: Stress Management Parent Workshop. This free, in-person, six-week class will cover a variety of techniques to help new mothers adjust. Open to parents with children younger than 6, the workshop will be held on Thursdays, September 7–October 12, 10 a.m.–noon, at Adventist Health Hospital in Clearlake. To sign up, go to surveymonkey.com/r/BVR8DW2 . See further details at tinyurl.com/2fs4vu5w.

See Planes Make a Splash

The first seaplanes were built in the early 1900s; by the 1920s, they were the speediest and biggest aircraft in the world. After the start of World War II, however, their use diminished as the number of airports grew, making sea landings less necessary. Today flying boats can be seen on remote travel and rescue missions—and at the Clear Lake Seaplane Splash-In. At the annual event, pilots will gather to share the thrill of touch-down and also to introduce young people to aviation. To this latter aim, there will be several seminars for youth, including talks on the Airplane Owners and Pilots Association’s high school curriculum, and on aviation-training scholarships. The Splash-In will be held on September 23, 9 a.m.–9 p.m., at Clear Lake in Lakeport. For details, go to seaplanefestival.com; for a schedule of talks, go to tinyurl.com/2j8achmz

Clear Lake Splash-In

Mendocino County Fair and Apple Show

The WellRounded Child

How Extracurricular Programs Benefit Kids

By Tanni Haas

As the new school year begins, parents ask themselves whether or not they should enroll their kids in an after-school program. The answer is a resounding “Yes!” Experts agree that after-school programs not only boost kids’ academic performance, they also enhance their social and emotional development, as well as their overall health and well-being.

Academic Performance Kids who attend after-school programs tend to do better academically

than those who don’t. They pay more attention in class, are more involved in classroom discussions,

develop stronger study habits, and earn higher test scores. Researchers believe that’s because they spend more time doing homework and get the material explained by a wider variety of adults with different teaching styles. After-school

Kids learn how to support one another and solve problems through teamwork.

programs generally offer more hands-on, experiential ways of learning, which are great for many kids.

In addition to their academic tutoring, most after-school programs also offer different extracurricular activities such as art, music, and sports. These activities also have a positive impact on their

academic performance. When kids discover they have a particular talent, they gain self-confidence and that translates into better classroom behavior and performance. They also learn important timemanagement skills. When kids have homework to finish but are looking forward to a favorite activity, they learn how to manage their time so that they can do both.

Social and Emotional

Development During afterschool programs, kids spend considerable time interacting with children other than their regular classmates, including kids from different grades. This teaches them important interpersonal skills and

how to make new friends. They also learn much from the extracurricular activities. Whether they’re working together on an art project or a music performance, or they’re

conflict-resolution skills, and the ability to work well with others.

preparing for a sports competition, kids learn how to support one another and solve problems through teamwork. These are extremely valuable lessons that will serve them well for the rest of their lives. Almost all professional jobs require good communication and

Mendocino Ballet

Health

and Wellness

Finally, attending an after-school program is excellent for children’s overall well-being. Most after-school programs teach kids about proper nutrition, engage them in physical activities that are good for their growing bodies, and offer them healthy snacks—all in a safe and structured learning environment. Researchers have concluded that kids who regularly attend after-school programs are less obese than their peers. ❖

Tanni

Haas, PhD, is a college communications professor.

Fall Dance Classes

Meendocino Ballet Dance Classes

Dance Classes

Ball Dance Classes

Ballet classes for ages 3 -Adult

Tap/Ballet class for ages 4 -7

Tap classes for ages 7 -Adult

Ballet classes for ages 3 -Adult

Jazz/Contemporary classes

Tap/Ballet class for ages 4 -7

Ballet • Tap Contemporary & Modern Dance Special Art of Classical Ballet Levels (Ages 8+)

Special intensive classes in August for our Art of Classical Ballet program

Tap classes for ages 7 -Adult

Ballet classes for ages

Tap/Ballet class for Tap classes for ages

Classes Start September 5

Jazz/Contemporary classes

For more information call our office at 463 -2290 or email at balletoffice@sbcglobal.net

Classes for all ages & levels from 3-adult

For more information call our office at 463-2290 or email at balletoffice@sbcglobal.net

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

Special intensive classes in August for our Art of Classical Ballet program

For more information call our office at 463

Jazz/Contemporary Special intensive August for our Art of Ballet program

205 South State St. • Ukiah www.mendocinoballet.org

www.mendocinoballet.org

“Where Dreams to Dance Come True!”

“Where Dreams to Dance Come True!”

For more information call our office at 463 -2290 or email at balletoffice@sbcglobal.net

Mendocino Ballet Mendocino Ballet

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

2023

For more information call our office at 463 email at balletoffice@sbcglobal.net

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

After-school programs generally offer more hands-on, experiential ways of learning.

encouraging lessons in basic subjects; find out if their teachers are certified and able to tailor lessons for various learning styles. Occasionally a family member may be able to step in and help your child in a certain subject. In that case, work with the teacher to get proper lesson materials. It’s important that the tutoring lessons don’t conflict with classroom expectations.

Tutoring ABCs

How to Find the Best Help for Your Kid

By Jan Pierce

There are many reasons for a child to fall a bit behind in school. Maybe your family moved and the new school does things in its own way, or maybe your child is operating on a different developmental clock.

Whatever the reason, falling behind other learners is never a happy situation for a child. Extra study at home may help, but often working with a tutor is the best way for a student to make great strides. Hiring a tutor is a serious venture. You don’t want to risk adding more stress to your child’s life. And the additional expense can be a strain on your budget; you want your dollars to bring positive results. So consider these qualities when looking for academic help.

Be sure that you work with teachers and the tutor to set specific academic goals. One way to build learning confidence is to meet objectives.

Safety and Convenience

Your primary concern is for your child’s well-being. You’ll be entrusting another adult with your little learner, so get and check references. Make sure lessons are in a place they can be supervised, such as in your home or a school or library.

Skills and Experience

The best tutors are teachers who are either retired or currently not employed. They are certified and have lots of experience with children who need additional support. Tutoring services are able to provide

Patience, Empathy, and Kindness Children who have fallen behind are often very discouraged. They may feel they can’t learn and this hurts their self-esteem. Anything additional in their schedule can feel like punishment. So hire someone who offers nothing but positivity, and lessons in bite-size pieces—then failure won’t be an option. Good tutors will have games and activities that are both instructional and fun. They may use some sort of reward system that encourages a bit of risk-taking, but also makes your child feel hopeful and accomplished. An effective tutor is on-task but also upbeat and friendly; they are patient but expect the best. Often charts

The best tutors are teachers who are either retired or currently not employed.

and stickers work very well for a child who has not been able to earn them in class.

Enthusiasm and Positivity

Typically children who have experienced a degree of failure are sure that they’re “bad at math” or “bad at reading.” A skilled tutor can present material in such a way that your child can shine. The tutor’s enthusiasm for reading a good book or solving a math problem can change your child’s mind about learning.

Reliability Your family’s schedule is important and adding a tutoring session may be a stretch for you. So if your tutor is not on time, or fails to measure up in any way, feel free to find another one.

It’s also a good idea to schedule tutoring sessions for a month or two at a time and then re-evaluate the need for the support. You may

embarrassment or a punishment. It may be wise to explain that throughout history, children have worked with tutors and that classroom instruction is a relatively new way to learn.

decide that the extra boost was all that your child needed to get back on track. Or you may decide that certain times of the year are just too busy to add another timeslot. If so, plan sessions during a better season or semester.

It’s important that your child never feel that working with a tutor is an

Hiring the best tutor for your child will take research, time, and money. But a strong, capable tutor may be just the boost your child needs to become a confident, successful learner. ❖

Jan Pierce, MEd, is a retired teacher and writer specializing in education, parenting, and family life. She is the author of Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun . Find her at janpierce.net

Hire someone who offers positive lessons presented in bite-size pieces.

Everything in Its Place

9 Organization Tips for Kids with ADHD

By Kerrie McLoughlin

If you have children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), you know they struggle every day. School challenges them even more as they try to plan and do homework, keep track of permission slips, attend to hygiene, and accomplish other activities. Here’s how to help them have a successful school year.

Make a fresh start…every month. Begin with a massive cleaning session, and clear out the clutter from last school year. Empty out backpacks, closets, and bookshelves. Then, to keep up with the influx of new paper, put monthly cleaning sessions on the calendar.

Let them own the system. Your children won’t keep up with any organization or homework system they don’t help to create. Let them figure out what will work for them.

Limit choices. Less is more. “I got my son all these binders with

tabs, but [his teacher] said one simple folder is sometimes more helpful,” says one mom.

Buy color-coded supplies. School psychologist Lisa Adams, PhD, suggests, “[O]rganize and color-code binders. Use the same color for all math, etc.” Choose colored binders with clear front/ side areas for visible labeling. Buy various sizes and colors of Post-it notes and tape flags, bins, flat-drawer organizers, and Washi tape for extra personalization. Don’t forget to get pens, pencils, Sharpies, and highlighters they love and will actually use.

Create a homework haven. Designating a spot just for doing homework and nothing else is key. No phones or other distractions should be allowed. Start with the most difficult subjects first, and take frequent 15–20-minute activity breaks. Dana Baker-Williams says her daughter used special pens to write out assignments and due dates on her closet doors. “Then she could prioritize better,” she says. For large or long projects, they’d break assignments into bite-size pieces. Develop a homework system. Work with your kids to create a system that includes specific times for retrieving, doing, and turning in their homework. “Provide continuous parent oversight until the system is learned,” says Adams. If you need a helping hand with homework, check

Your children won’t keep up with any system they don’t help to create.

out tutoring services (see “Tutoring ABCs” on page 14). Create a place for everything. Once homework is finished, teach kids to put their binders and textbooks back into their backpacks. Always keep backpacks in the same spot. File papers in a milk crate system. Once the mess is out of their brains, they won’t have to worry about constantly losing things or waste precious time trying to find what’s been lost.

Work that planner! Commit 15 minutes of each morning to prepare for the day. Then commit 15 minutes in the evening to review and think about what could have gone differently. Rebelling against the planner is normal; create rewards for sticking with it. (There are a zillion different planners, so review a bunch on YouTube before you buy one.)

Just say no to paper explosions. Have kids keep a small notebook with them to jot down notes. And then, in a timely manner, have them transfer the little jots over to one spot (the perfect planner). This goes for notes created on phone apps as well. If reminders aren’t put in the right place, they will be lost forever. ❖

Kerrie McLoughlin (TheKerrieShow. com) is a 40-something ADD writer and homeschooling mom of five.

Designating a spot just for doing homework is key.

Does Your Child Need Therapy?

9 Signs It’s Time to Call a Counselor

By Isbell Oliva-Garcia

Parenthood is an incredible adventure, but it certainly comes with its fair share of challenges. As you watch your child grow, there might be times when you notice something doesn’t quite feel right. Perhaps your kid is struggling with emotions, behaving in concerning ways, or having trouble connecting with others. They may be facing difficulties that go beyond your capacity to help. If so, therapy or counseling can be beneficial. Here are specific signs that your child may need it. Know that early intervention can make a significant difference.

1. Behavior Changes Sudden, significant changes in behavior or personality, such as a usually cheery child becoming withdrawn, is cause for alarm. This is particularly true if the new, concerning behavior lasts two or more weeks. Watch for shifts in sleeping patterns, eating habits, and personal interests. Also take note of frequent acting out, such as defensiveness, irritability,

argumentativeness, and angry outbursts.

2. History of Trauma As a parent, you may or may not be aware that your child has been through a traumatic event. Some trauma is obvious: mass school violence, a severe accident, or a sudden loss of a loved one. But other trauma, such as sexual abuse, is not so apparent. So look for these signs:

• separation anxiety

• crying

• nightmares

• difficulty sleeping

• anxiety or fear

• depression

3. Poor Academic Performance If your child’s grades are dropping, this could be a sign that they are in distress. This is especially true if your child usually performs well at school. If the child also is struggling with other aspects of life, such as relationships with family and friends, there is additional cause for concern. Even if the drop in grades isn’t due to emotional distress, investigating it may help you learn about other issues, such as a learning disability like dyslexia or a disorder like attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

4. Withdrawal or Isolation If your child starts to withdraw and isolate themselves from friends and family, this could mean they are feeling sad or anxious and may need help. If, for example, a usually social child starts avoiding playdates or sitting alone at lunch, or even doesn’t want to leave the house, be concerned.

5. Long-Lasting Sadness Of course, everybody gets sad from time to time, and some kids are more sensitive than others. However, if your child has been sad for more than two weeks, this could indicate something more serious, such as depression. Other symptoms of children’s depression include low energy, irritability, and losing interest in fun things they used to enjoy.

6. Persistent Worry It’s normal for your kid to feel worried or anxious in certain situations. However, if

the anxiety is out of proportion to the situation at hand and getting in the way of your kid’s life, then pay attention. Your child may verbalize their specific worries and anxiety, or they may show other signs, including:

• separation anxiety

• extreme fears or phobias of specific situations

• fear of going to school or other social situations

• worry about something bad happening

• panic attacks

7. Unexplained Physical Symptoms If your child constantly complains of physical symptoms, such as tummy aches or headaches, and your doctor has ruled out any physical cause, these symptoms could

be physical manifestations of anxiety and distress. You may notice these symptoms linked to stressors, such as going to school in the morning.

8. Self-Destructive Behaviors

Your child may repetitively engage in self-destructive behaviors like picking at their skin or pulling their hair. Or your child may engage in more outright, dangerous self-harm like deliberately cutting, burning, or hurting themselves in an attempt to feel relief from negative emotions. Even if they are not actively self-harming, but they talk about hurting themselves, it’s definitely cause for concern.

9. Suicidal Ideation If your child is talking about suicide, it’s a huge red flag that they need help ASAP. They may talk about suicide

directly or indirectly. For example, they may say they wish they were dead or that everyone would be better off if they weren’t around. Or they might make drawings or write about death. Do not hesitate to call 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Local therapy resources include the Redwood Empire Chapter of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, recamft.org/ find-a-therapist; Redwood Community Services, redwoodcommunityservices. org; and the Lake County Behavioral Health Services provider directory, tinyurl.com/k6jr7hkp. ❖

Isbell Oliva-Garcia is a licensed mental health counselor at Grow Therapy She works with front-line individuals struggling with PTSD or work-related stress.

September Calendar

of Events

Experience Native Pomo Culture

The Pomo tribe lived in what is now Lake County way before any European did. Now many tribe members reside in the Middletown Rancheria of Pomo Indians of California, which runs Twin Pine Casino. To share some of their ancient culture, the tribe hosts an annual Indian Day Celebration, which features an opening prayer, traditional dances, free Native cuisine, handmade crafts, and kids’ activities. The event will be held on September 16, noon–5 p.m., at Twin Pine Casino in Middletown. Admission is free. See twinpine.com/event/indian-days for more information.

Friday 1

Lake County Fair. Admission: $4–$12; ages 5 & younger, free. Carnival unlimited rides wristband: $30. Sept. 1: 4–11 p.m. Sept. 2 & 3: 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Lake County

Fairgrounds. 401 Martin St., Lakeport. lakecountyfair.com.

Paul Bunyan Days. Kiddie games, craft fair, parade, logging show & contests, classic car show, gem & mineral show & more. Thru Sept. 4.

DID YOU KNOW?

HELPS YOU

WE will walk you through the entire process of becoming a child care provider in your home. WE have subsidies available to help with child care expenses for qualifying families.

WE have ongoing training & referrals to help make your child care business the best it can be!

1-800-606-5550

Fort Bragg. See website for schedule & event venues: paulbunyandays.com.

Mendo Leap Happy Hour. Play time with specially curated educational & developmentally designed equipment. All ages. Adults must accompany children. Admission: 6 months & over, $15; 5 months & younger free with purchase of play admission for an older child; up to 2 caregivers per child are free. Mondays–Fridays. Receive free snack with admission during Happy Hour: 3–5 p.m. Mendo Leap. 203 S. State St., Ukiah. mendoleap.com.

FREE The Traveling Toy Library. Families are welcome to check out toys & materials for children ages 0–5. Sponsored by Easterseals Northern CA. Lakeport: 1173 11th St. (next to post office). Clearlake: Early Learning Center. 14085-2 Lakeshore Dr. (next to WIC). Send email to schedule time & pick up: earlyintervention referrals@esnorcal.org.

FREE Virtual Circle Times. Songs, storytime, activities & socialization opportunities for little ones. English & Spanish versions available.

facebook.com/First5ELC. Sign up via email: earlyintervention referrals@esnorcal.org.

FREE Storytime. Fridays. 10:30 a.m. (except Sept. 15). Willits Library. 390 E. Commercial St., Willits. For other storytimes, view schedule: tinyurl. com/mubdavx6

FREE Storytime in the Park. Stories & songs. Fridays. 10:15–11:30 a.m. Library Park. 200 Park St., Lakeport. Schedule of storytimes at other Lake County libraries: library.lakecountyca.gov

Saturday 2

FREE Fishing Day. Fish without a fishing license. Sponsored by the California Department of Fish & Wildlife. wildlife.ca.gov/licensing/ fishing/free-fishing-days

FREE Noyo Harbor Fish Market. Fleet sells catches off their boats. Local vendors sell wares. Noon–4 p.m. Noyo Harbor. 19101 S. Harbor Dr., Fort Bragg. noyoharbordistrict.org/ fishermens-markets

Annual Fireman’s Ball. Free rides home. Beer & wine for purchase. Admission: $10. 21 years & older only. 7 p.m.–midnight. Pentecost Hall. 822 Stewart St., Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/ bde7apfu

Claws for a Cause. Lobster, filet mignon, live music & auctions. Benefit for Seabiscuit Therapeutic Riding Center. $100. 5:30 p.m. Ridgewood Ranch. 16200 N. Hwy. 101, Willits. seabiscuitridingcenter.org/events.

FREE Junior Ranger Program. Ages 7–12. Kids explore natural & cultural resources via hands-on activities & guided hikes. Last program of the season. Two programs:

10–11 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Clear Lake State Park. Education Pavilion (near Visitor Center). 5300

feature the work of 43 artists. Sept. 2–4. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Download tour studiodiscoverytour.com/

REDWOOD COLLEGIATE ACADEMY

A SMALL SCHOOL FOR BIG THOUGHTS

We are a FREE public charter school focused on fostering a community of students who are prepared for college, leadership, and independent living.

Somos una escuela autónoma pública GRATUITA enfocada en construir una comunidad de estudiantes preparados para la universidad, el liderazgo y la vida independiente.

We are a FREE public charter school focused on fostering a community of students who are prepared for college, leadership, and independent living.

Small class sizes for grades 7-12

• FREE Public School

Clases pequeñas para los grados 7-12

• Advanced Placement Options

Supportive, highly qualified educators Profesores amables y acreditados

• Caring, Credentialed Teachers

MESA and VEX Robotics Program Programa de Robótica VEX y MESA

• Centrally Located at the Fairgrounds

Archery and other athletics Tiro con arco y otros deportes

• Clubs & Electives, Student Council

• Serving Grades 7-12

Middle School STEM Program Programa STEM de Escuela Intermedia

AP® and Honors courses Cursos AP® y de Honores

Early College Program Programa de Universidad Temprana

Individualized college counseling

Consejería universitaria individualizada

707-467-0500

www.redwoodacademy.org

Preparing students for college and independent living in a safe, challenging, well managed charter school. 707-467-0500

@redwoodcollegiate

Upper Lake. lakecountylandtrust.org/ rodman-preserve.html

FREE Paul Bunyan Days Kiddie Parade. Kids ages 0–12 & their adult companions are welcome. Costumes encouraged. Entrants are grouped by ages: 0–4, 5–9 & 10–12. Photos taken with Paul Bunyan & his giant axe at end. 11 a.m.–noon. Parade starts E. Laurel & Franklin Streets, Fort Bragg. Entry form: tinyurl.com/yc777f8k. Route: tinyurl.com/2umdus8z

FREE Farmers’ Market Storytime. Kids & their families welcome. Presented by the Ukiah Library. Saturdays. 10–11 a.m. 399-359 S. School St., Ukiah. tinyurl.com/ mr86weyd

Annual Blue Wing Blues Festival. Sept. 2: Nancy Wright & “Mighty

Mike” Schermer. Sept. 3: Jules Leyhe & the Delgado Brothers. Sept. 4: AJ Crawdaddy & the Daniel Castro Band. Barbeque dinner & concert: $75. 6–9 p.m. Blue Wing Restaurant. 9520 Main St., Upper Lake. Tickets: tinyurl. com/4k5xks2a.

Sunday 3

FREE Family Fun at Alex Rorabaugh Recreation Center. Open gym. Kids younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Activities for the whole family to enjoy. Sundays: Noon–4 p.m. Alex Rorabaugh Recreation Center. 1640 S. State St., Ukiah. tinyurl.com/yyh6n4vx

FREE First Fiddlers’ Jam. Listen to fiddle tunes played by members of the Northern California Old Time

Fiddlers Group. Raffles & barbecue. Noon–2 p.m. Ely Stage Stop & Country Museum. 9921 Soda Bay Rd. (Hwy. 128), Kelseyville. thebloom. news/big-calendar.

Monday 4

FREE Harbor & Seafood Festival. Seafood, live music & kids’ games. Food & drinks available for purchase (cash only). Parking available in adjacent Rock Wall area & along the north side of Port Rd. Noon–6 p.m. Point Arena Pier. 810 Port Rd., Point Arena. pointarena.net/ point-arena-harbor-seafood-festival.

Tuesday 5

FREE Game On! Family Game Time. All ages. Play board games, card games & chess. Feel free to bring

games from home. Tuesdays. 2–4 p.m. Lake County Library. 1425 N. High St., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/3dc35eue.

Circle time at Mendo Leap. Weekly themed dances, songs & stories designed for infants–7 yrs. Included in 2-hour general play admission: $15/ child. Membership options available. Tuesdays & Wednesdays. 10–11 a.m. Meet at Mendo Leap. 203 S. State St., Ukiah. mendoleap.com.

Wednesday 6

FREE A Discovery of Stitches: Teens & Tweens Stitch Club. 4:30–5:30 p.m. Redbud Library. 14785 Burns Valley Rd., Clearlake. tinyurl. com/yezfpmkf.

FREE Nintendo Switch Day. Make new friends & play games. No

registration required. Held 1st, 2nd & 4th Wednesdays. Sept. 13 & 27. 3–4:30 p.m. Middletown Library. 21256 Washington St., Middletown. tinyurl. com/yezfpmkf.

FREE Queer & Trans Parent Online Support Group. Open to queer/trans people who are expecting, adopting &/or parenting babies up to 2 years of age. For gestational, non-gestational & adoptive parents. Wednesdays. 11:30 a.m. postpartum.net/get-help/ queer-parents.

Thursday 7

FREE Mothers & Babies Stress Management Parent Workshop. In-person class. All materials provided. Parents with children younger than 6 welcome. Hosted by Lake Family

Resource Center. Thursdays. 10 a.m.–noon. Runs thru Oct. 12. Adventist Health Hospital. 15630 18th Ave. (Lower Bldg. F), Clearlake. Register: tinyurl.com/mr4bkres or call 279-0563, ext. 204.

Friday 8

Granite Construction Chili Cook-Off. Taste chili from local businesses & vote for favorites. Proceeds benefit Boys & Girls Club of Ukiah. $5–$10. Ages 5 & younger: free. 6–10 p.m. Alex R. Thomas Plaza. 310 S. State St., Ukiah. facebook.com/ granite-construction-chili-cook-off.

Saturday 9

FREE Roots of Motive Power Steam Festival. Variety of 19th-century steam-powered equipment will be

fired up. Free passenger steam train rides. Sept. 9–10. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (Barbecue, $20, at 4 p.m. in Rec Grove.) Roots of Motor Power. 420 E. Commercial St., Willits. facebook. com/events/309365861654785

FREE Move, Lake County 5K Fun Run & Health Expo. Runner entry fees: $15–$35. Scholarships available for ages 6–18; call 707-263-5092 for more info. Free Health Expo: fitness classes, health screenings & wellness vendors & activities. Food & some products available for purchase. 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Race starts at 8 a.m. followed by Health Expo. Austin Park. 14077 Lakeshore Dr., Clearlake. lakecochamber.com/move-lake-county

Women on the Land: Creating Conscious Community. Created by visual artist Carmen Goodyear & Laurie York. Documentary film follows the founders of the 1970s magazine Country Women through decades as it looks at the work of local women farming today. Free with admission: $4–$5; families, $12. 2–3:30 p.m. Grace Hudson Museum. 431 S. Main St., Ukiah. gracehudsonmuseum.org/new-events

FREE StoryWalk & Crafting Party. Take a short walk while reading a StoryWalk® book with kids. Crafting activity afterward. Bring picnic lunch. Held second Saturday of the month. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Clear Lake State Park Center. 5300 Soda Bay Rd., Kelseyville. tinyurl.com/mhp8yxvj.

Sunday 10

FREE Día de la Independencia de Mexico. Traditional Mexican dance, music & food. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Main St., Kelseyville. tinyurl.com/2em7mv2n

Wednesday 13

Just Between Friends Kids’ & Maternity Consignment Sales Event. Sept. 13: 9 a.m.–8 p.m. ($10–$25). Sept. 14: 9 a.m.–7 p.m. ($4–$8). Sept. 15 (Sensory Shopping, no music): 8–10 a.m. (free with online ticket). Sept. 15: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. ($4 or free with online ticket). Sept. 16: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. ($4 or free with online ticket). Sept. 16 (half-price): 4:30–7:30 p.m. ($10). Sept. 17: 9 a.m.–2 p.m. (free). Parking: $10. Sonoma County Fairgrounds. 1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. Tickets: northbay.jbfsale.com.

Saturday 16

The Rhinestone Cowboy Ball. Concert featuring Johnny Young, McKenna Faith & Love & Theft. Dancing, casino gaming, barbecue, open bar & live auction. $150. Benefits Redwood Community Services. 4–10 p.m. Nelson Family Vineyards. 550 Nelson Ranch Rd., Ukiah. Tickets: tinyurl.com/5n7a382e.

FREE Indian Day Celebration. Opening prayer, traditional dances & complimentary Native cuisine plus handmade crafts & kids’ activities. Noon–5 p.m. Twin Pine Casino. 22223 Hwy. 29, Middletown. twinpine.com/ event/indian-days

FREE Ukiah Community Yard Sale. 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Todd Grove Park. 600

Live Oak Ave., Ukiah. cityofukiah. com/communityyardsale

The Church of Western Swing Meets the Church of Boogie Woogie. Tommy Thomsen & Wendy DeWitt perform. $25. 7 p.m. Soper Reese Theatre. 275 S. Main St., Lakeport. soperreesetheatre.com/ events.

FREE Kids’ Craft Time. Crafts for kids of all ages. Supplies provided. 11 a.m.–noon. Fort Bragg Library. 499 E. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. tinyurl. com/4vezjjc8

FREE Recovery Walk & Banner Contest. Family activities, informational/resource booths, raffle prizes, speakers & lunch. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Library Park. 200 Park

St., Lakeport. cityoflakeport.com/ calendar.php

Wheels & Wings Show. Classic & muscle cars from every era, parked next to high-performance historic aircraft. $10; ages 7 & younger, free. 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Pacific Air Coast Museum. One Air Museum Way (N. Laughlin entrance), Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/mvm8pcu4

Thursday 21

FREE Kickin’ in the Country Street Dance. Featuring Ben Rice Blues Band & Aki Kumar Bollywood Blues. Bring chairs & dancing shoes. 6–10 p.m. Main St., Kelseyville. tinyurl. com/552297au.

Friday 22

Mendocino County Fair & Apple Show. CCPRA rodeo, classic car show, sheep dog trials, carnival, country music, dancing. Apple & wine tasting. $6–$10; ages 6 & younger: free. Unlimited rides: $35–$40. Extra fee for tastings. 9 a.m.–midnight. Fair runs thru Sept. 24. Mendocino County Fair. 14400 Hwy. 128, Boonville. mendocountyfair.com/ county-fair.

Saturday 23

FREE Clear Lake Seaplane Splash-In & Seminars. See aircraft up close & talk to pilots. Free seminars for young people who want to learn more about aviation. 9 a.m.–9 p.m. Splash-In in Clear

Lake in Lakeport. Seminars at City Council Chambers at Lakeport’s City Hall. seaplanefestival.com. Seminars: tinyurl.com/bdesy8wr

Tuesday 26

FREE Tomato Tasting. Local gardeners provide homegrown, non-hybrid tomatoes to share. Those with garden tomatoes to share can contact Jen: 707-463-4490 or lyonj@ mendocinocounty.org. 4–5 p.m. Ukiah Library. 105 N. Main St., Ukiah. tinyurl.com/3cn6b8zw.

Fairgrounds. 401 Martin St., Lakeport. thebloom.news/big-calendar

Saturday 30

FREE 1st Annual Veterans

Appreciation Day. Food & refreshments for all veterans & their families. Noon. 10892 Harbor Rd., Kelseyville. tinyurl.com/fy5v7z54

FREE Kelseyville Pear Festival. Arts & crafts market, antique tractor

GIVE YOUR CHILD a joyful learning experience

full of discovery with:

Friday 29

• Exploration of own interests & abilities

Monster Trucks. Auto racing featuring Malicious Monster Truck Insanity Tour. $12–$15; 3 & younger, free. Thru Sept. 30. Gates: 5 p.m. Races: 7 p.m. Lake County

• Experiential learning with field trips, arts

• Respectful and caring learning community

• Peace education and mindfulness

• Earth stewardship

First Responders Chili Mania Vendors

Beer & Wine

Live Music with The Ignitors Tix $20/$10

GREEN

Open House Wednesday, April 13 Call for more information

Free Montessori Elementary Education for Children Ages 4 1/2–13

Free Montessori Elementary Education for Children Ages 5 through 13

Free Montessori Elementary Education for Children Ages 4 3/4 through 12

OPEN ENROLLMENT January For application and more information: 707-462-0913

GIVE YOUR CHILD A JOYFUL LEARNING EXPERIENCE FULL OF DISCOVERY WITH:

• Exploration of own interests & abilities

• Experiential learning with field trips, arts

• Respectful & caring learning community

• Peace education & mindfulness

• Hands-on & multicultural learning experiences

• Earth stewardship

treeoflifeschool@pacific.net

www.treeoflifeschool.net

FREE meals cooked from scratch for all students, FREE before and aftercare, FREE summer program

Free Montessori Elementary Education for Children Ages 4 1/2 Through 12 For application and more information: 707-462-0913 businessmanager@treeoflifeschool.net • www.treeoflifeschool.net

will bake nothing now. I will only eat preprocessed garbage that is mass-produced in a way that makes me question my life choices. And it will be glorious.

Other brave parents will show up. We will not talk to each other. A head nod will be offered, accepted, and a quiet contract will be established. Slowly we will recharge our souls.

Pool Time for Dad

Every Father Needs a Secret Floaty

By Shannon Carpenter

The pool calls to me. It is the siren that speaks on stormy seas. In its violence, it offers peace. I shall go to the pool. I shall lounge at the pool. As soon as the kids go to school.

“You guys have had a great summer, but it is time to put childish things away and have your hopes and dreams crushed,” I told my kids when they went back to school. (On a side note, I’m available for unmotivational speaking at your next corporate event.)

“But…” the kids started. I have no idea what else they said because I was already pulling out my secret pool floaty from its hiding space. My kids are rough on everything. They have bent the rims of my car. Put holes in my wall. Broken a metal gear off the garage door. No, they don’t

get the good pool floaty. They get the stuff from the dollar bin.

This summer, we saw a fan museum, which is exactly what it sounds like. We did the water parks and suffered third-degree burns on the bottoms of our feet. Sleepovers, late nights, special treats—we did them all.

Now it’s my time.

There will be no splashing and no yelling. My pool book will not get wet. I will have snacks that will not be gone in 20 seconds. And with my pool floaty, the one where I can fully recline while I pull my hat low, I will listen to the sounds of my own breathing.

There will be a few more weeks of warm weather. It’s hot enough to bake cookies on the sidewalk. Or bread. Or any of the other 1,000 things I made this summer to create quality time with my kids. I

Bruises will heal. Scars will form over the emotional cuts that all parents have suffered over the last summer. Memories of camps that were too full, activities that cost too much, and vacations that involved epic meltdowns will be locked away until we can one day look at them and see that these activities were actually fun. Right now, recalling them just makes us want to fall asleep, like we did when we were standing in line for the Ferris wheel at that sketchy fair. The place where we spent 40 bucks for rides that haven’t been OSHA-certified since 1987.

That is what the pool offers and that is where I’ll be.

I hope to not see you there.

Shannon Carpenter is a professional humorist, co-host of The Dadhouse Pod , and the author of The Ultimate Stay-at-Home Dad Manual (Penguin, 2021).

There will be no splashing and no yelling. My pool book will not get wet.