Mendo Lake Family Life July 2017

mendo lake FREE!

July 2017

Surf & Sand Local beaches

Tech Toys Brainy play

4th of July Top spots Summer of Fun! 51 great ideas

Choose fromChoose Bowling, Trampolines, Sports, from Bowling, Laser Tag, Arcade Choose Trampolines, Sports, Games & More! from LaserBowling, Tag, Arcade Trampolines, Games &Sports, More!

Laser Tag, Arcade Games & More!

C I C Y EEEP I A PPICTHD Y A Y D A R H I T B T R I R I B B !

N !

U FFFUUN N NEW PARTY PACKAGES AS LOW AS $195

MAKE YOUR MAKE YOUR CHILD’S NEXT BIRTHDAY MAKE YOUR CHILD’S NEXT BIRTHDAY AN EPICNEXT CELEBRATION! CHILD’S BIRTHDAY AN EPIC CELEBRATION! WithEPIC so many fun and exciting attractions AN CELEBRATION! With so many fun and exciting attractions

under oneroof, roof,nobody nobody in Sonoma County under one in Sonoma County With so many fun and exciting attractions throws birthday party Epicenter! throws aabirthday party likelike Epicenter! under one roof, nobody in Sonoma County throws a birthday party like Epicenter!

Learn more andreserve reserve your date now!

Learn more and your date now!

Coffey Lane, Santa Rosa 32153215 Coffey Lane, Santa Rosa

3215 Coffey Lane, Santa Rosa

visitepicenter.com/fam visitepicenter.com/fam Learn more and reserve your date now!

visitepicenter.com/fam

Beating breast cancer starts here

Clearer images. Pinpoint accuracy.

3D mammography is the latest breakthrough in breast cancer detection. And it’s available right here.

Schedule a 3D Mammogram Today

3D mammography is proven to provide greater accuracy detecting breast cancers. By taking multiple pictures of each breast in just 4 seconds, a 3D mammogram gives radiologists clear, highly focused images of breast tissue, layer by layer. It’s just one more way we’re helping to keep the women in our community healthy and breast cancer free.

707.463.7342

July 2017

Every Issue

10 Features 10 Beach Bliss Get your fix of surf and sand.

12 Tech Toys

6

Dear Reader

8

Bits and Pieces Slime Central Salmon Mania Mendocino Muse Funk It Up Fun in the Sun New Vinos on the Block Talk to Me

14

14 Calendar of Events Soothe Your Senses

22 Humor Break Children Are Everywhere

Gadgets that engage kids’ brains.

13 Tube Owls Imaginative play with cardboard.

15 A Riot of Color

8

Where to see Fourth of July fireworks.

15 4 MendoLakeFamilyLife

July 2017 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

READ MORE THIS SUMMER & WIN

Mendocino Ballet Mendocino Ballet Dance Classes Dance this Summer Dance Classes Summer Dance Camp!

Ages 5-8 July 17-21

Ballet classes for ages 3-Adult

Dance & Choreography

Workshop Tap/Ballet class for ages 4-7

Ages 10-18 July 10-28

Tap classes for ages for 7-Adult Ballet classes ages

PRIZES

Your child can reap the many benefits of reading over summer break LEARN MORE AT www.uusd.net/pages/Ukiah_Unified/ukiahreads

3-Adult

B.Y.O.B. (Bring Your Own Baby) Jazz/Contemporary classes Stroller Class Tap/BalletFitness class for ages 4-7

10-28 classes Tues. & Thur.

SpecialJuly intensive in

Tapforclasses ages August our ArtIntensives offor Classical Ballet Art of Classical

7-Adult

Ballet program Jazz/Contemporary classes For Pre-Pointe Ages 11-15, 12-25 Ages 8-12 (with 1-2 years ballet) Pre-Ballet Ages 3-5

Special intensive in Ballet Ages 5-10 & classes up

Ballet/Tap Ages 5-7 For more information call our officeTeen/Adult at 463-2290 (13+) or For m August for ourTap Art of Classical email at balletoffice@sbcglobal.net For more information callFacebook, our office at 463-2290 Follow us on or email at office@mendocinoballet.org Twitter and Instagram!Ballet program Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

www.mendocinoballet.org www.mendocinoballet.org

Sponsored by the Ukiah Police Department (UPD) & Ukiah USD

“Where Dance Come “WhereDreams Dreams toto Dance Come True!”True!”

For more information call our office at 463-2290 or email at balletoffice@sbcglobal.net Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

Mendocino Ballet

Dance Classes

www.mendocinoballet.org

“Where DreamsBallet to Dance classesCome for agesTrue!”

3-Adult Tap/Ballet class for ages 4-7

Mendocino Ballet Tap classes for ages 7-Adult Jazz/Contemporary classes

Special intensive classes in

August for our Art of Classical Classes REDEFINING FAMILY FUNDance IN SANTA ROSA Ballet program

Indoor Sports Trampolines Bowling

Arcade Laser Tag 7D Thrill Ride

Play Structures Starbucks Sports Bar Parties / Events For more information call our office at 463-2290 or For m Ballet classes Restaurant And Morefor ages 3-Adult email at balletoffice@sbcglobal.net Follow us on Facebook,

Tap/Ballet class for ages 4-7 Twitter and Instagram!

Learn more at visitepicenter.com/famfun Tap classes www.mendocinoballet.org

for ages 7-Adult

“Where Dreams to Dance Come True!”

Jazz/Contemporary

classes

Special intensive classes in www.mendolakefamilylife.com

July 2017

MendoLakeFamilyLife 5

August for our Art of Classical

Dear Reader

B

y now your family is in full school-break swing. And that means you are on parenting Sharon Gowan double-duty.

Publisher/Editor Sharon@family-life.us Never fear! We have found plenty of ways to help you keep your brood busy.

“Tech Toys” (page 12), a selection of games that are both entertaining and educational.

For loads of summer fun, look no further than your local piece of the Pacific. We’ve highlighted several beautiful patches of surf and sand in “Beach Bliss” (page 10).

We hope your July is a blast!

Office Manager Patricia Ramos patty@family-life.us

Of course, everyone looks forward to Fourth of July fireworks. Check out “A Riot of Color” (page 15) for a list of places to see sparks fly. Then go to our Calendar of Events (page 14) for a whole slew of activities that will make your kids smile all month long.

Business Marketing Renee Nutcher renee@family-life.us Marie Anderson marie@family-life.us Natalie Bruzon natalie@family-life.us

Features Editor Melissa Chianta melissa@family-life.us

If your kids are more into gadgets than the great outdoors, they’ll like

Production Manager Donna Bogener production@family-life.us

Web and Social Media Jean Flint jean@family-life.us

Cover Photo Cortney Lopez Photography www.cortneylopezphotography.com

Contributing Writers Holly Hester

Billing Jan Wasson-Smith

Proudly caring for women and newborns in Lake County Sutter Lakeside Hospital is proud to provide comprehensive care to women in one convenient location. From pregnancy and childbirth to general and specialty OB/Gyn services, the medical teams at Sutter Lakeside are here to care for you through all phases of life.

Publishing Office 134 Lystra Court, Suite A Santa Rosa, CA 95403 Tel (707) 586-9562 Fax (707) 586-9571

Additionally, our Family Birth Center is proud to celebrate 20 years of helping women welcome new babies to our Lake County community.

For information or to make an appointment, call 707-262-5000 or visit sutterlakeside.org

6 MendoLakeFamilyLife

July 2017 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Have More Fun & Create Great Memories Get weekly e-mail updates for the best LOCAL family fun calendar FREE visit

MendoLake Family Life.com

Bits & Pieces

Slime Central

I

cky little creatures with no brain are apparently very entertaining. Hence the popularity of the 50th Annual International Worm Races, a Clearlake tradition. Watch worms inch along for a leisurely go at first place, or enter a squiggly buddy yourself; you can bring your own or rent one. The annual summer event features three age classes for competitors: under 6 years old; 7–14 years old; and 15 and older. There will be cash prizes and trophies.

The action goes down July 1 at noon in Austin Park in Clearlake. For more information, call the Clearlake Chamber of Commerce at 994-3600. ¶

World’s Largest Salmon BBQ

Salmon Mania

W

ant to evoke utter euphoria in a fish lover? Take him or her to the grand dame of seafood events: the World’s Largest Salmon BBQ. The annual bash features pounds and pounds of the delicacy. You and the family can eat your fill then burn off calories dancing to live music. The barbecue will be held July 1, 11 a.m.–6 p.m., at Noyo Harbor in Fort Bragg. Admission is free; barbecue is $25–$30 or $10 for kids 12 and under. Bring hungry bellies, but leave canines at home. Proceeds benefit local salmon restoration efforts. See salmonrestoration.com/the-world-largest-salmon-bbq to buy tickets and for more information. ¶

Mendocino Muse

F

or two weeks of July every year, the little town of Mendocino bursts with music as top-notch performers of everything from classical to blues, world to jazz converge to play at the Mendocino Music Festival. This year’s event will be held July 8–22 and will feature the eclectic folk-jazz of the Kathleen Grace Band; medieval and Renaissance music by In Bocca al Lupo; and the ukulele-fueled, Hawaiian-reggae folk-rock of Kanekoa, as well orchestral, chamber, and other classical music. Besides concerts, there are also free workshops and open rehearsals, too. Venues and ticket prices vary. Find a complete schedule and purchase tickets at mendocinomusic.org. ¶

8 MendoLakeFamilyLife

July 2017 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Funk It Up

E

ncountering a few too many power struggles with the kids? Is summer-break chaos reaching new heights? Let everyone shake off the stress with the help of the high-energy, funky sounds of Orgone. The Los Angeles band’s name comes from the Reichian psychological term for “universal life force,” a dynamic quality with which the group aims to infuse their music. Make no bones about it: They want you to get up and boogie. “Sometimes it takes a nudge to let go and get on the dance floor. And sometimes it takes a big ‘ol push...a love shove, if you will. And we’re well versed in those,” says founding guitarist Sergio Rios on the group’s website. The band’s free Sundays in the Park show is on July 9 at 6 p.m. in Todd Grove Park in Ukiah. Curious about Orgone’s music?

Listen to samples of their work at orgonespace.com. And learn more about the Sundays in the Park series at cityofukiah. com/sundays-in-the-park. ¶

Orgone

Fun in the Sun

W

hat’s a summer day for if not swimming? Take a dip for free at the Ukiah Municipal Pool on July 4. The cool-down time is part of Ukiah’s All-American Picnic in the Park, a big, free community party in Todd Grove Park, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Children can jump around in bouncy houses, enter contests such as a three-legged race or a beanbag toss, or even hop on a bike that makes a smoothie as its peddled. There will be vendors selling crafts and food, too. See cityofukiah. com/recreation for more information. ¶ All-American Picnic in the Park

New Vinos on the Block

W

ant to sneak a taste of new local wine? Go to Anderson Valley Barrel Tasting, where about 20 local wineries will fill your glass directly from the barrel.

Bring a picnic to enjoy as you let your tastes guide you on this tour of Anderson Valley’s finest. The tasting runs July 22 and 23, so if crowds keep you from one winery the first day, you can always revisit it on the second. See a list of participating wineries and purchase tickets, which are $20–$25, at avwines.com. ¶

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Talk to Me

F

or millennia, humans have connected to each other through sharing stories. At workshops facilitated by Willits Community Theatre actors, locals learn to talk about their lives through the art of monologue. Hear their tales at Speakeasy: Monologues on July 22 at 8 p.m. and July 23 at 2 p.m. at the Willits Community Theatre in Willits. Expect short stories both dramatic and fanciful (previous presentations have been on everything from the death of a spouse to an addiction to raising chickens) told by ordinary folk and seasoned actors alike. The event is free but very popular, so arrive early to get a seat. See willitstheatre. org for more information. ¶ July 2017

MendoLakeFamilyLife 9

Courtesy California State Parks, 2017

Beach Bliss

Navarro River State Park Beach

Spectacular Places for Family Fun

W

hen it comes to summer diversion, you can’t beat the Mendocino County coast.

Lined with dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches, it is the perfect stay-cation destination. Here are a few spots that we think are particularly beautiful, as well as kid-friendly. You can even bring your dogs; just keep them on leashes no more than six feet long. So put on the sunscreen and hats, pack plenty of water and snacks, and get ready for a day of surf and sun.

Note: Never turn your back to the ocean. Sleeper waves can happen in any weather condition.

10 MendoLakeFamilyLife

Navarro River State Park Beach This little patch of surf rolls out the red carpet for its visitors: As you travel along the rolling hills of Anderson Valley, you’ll suddenly encounter an 11-mile tunnel of second-growth redwoods.

Take it to the beach, which is near the intersection of Highway 1 and Highway 128.

There you’ll find the historic Captain Fletcher’s Inn, which used to host sailors from lumber schooners. It is closed to the public, but it may one day be turned into a visitors’ center.

(Go to navarro-by-the-sea-center.org for restoration information as well

as detailed directions to the beach.)

Porta-potties are in the parking lot, which is close to the beach. See www. parks.ca.gov/?page_id=435.

July 2017 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Courtesy California State Parks, 2017

Manchester State Park Beach Several miles long, this piece of heaven in Manchester is great for long strolls. And kids will enjoy exploring the shelters made from the copious amounts of driftwood that lands there. Perhaps they’ll even be inspired to create their own structures. (Search on “how to make driftwood shelters” on Youtube.org for ideas.) Besides driftwood, there is also excellent steelhead fishing in the park’s Brush Creek and Alder Creek. The beach is accessible from the parking lot, where there are www.mendolakefamilylife.com

temperatures rising into the 50s and 60s. The park itself features the 2.5-mile Ecological Staircase Trail, which travels through three terraces, each with its own unique habitat—from

Courtesy California State Parks, 2017

Jughandle State Park Beach This majestic cove has a reputation for being one of Fort Bragg’s warmest beaches during the summer, with fog burning off by midday and

bishop pines to prairie to coast.

The trail includes a walk through a rare pygmy forest, where soil acidity has stunted the growth of the trees. Both the beach and trail are easily accessible from the parking lot, at which there is a porta-potty. Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach but not on the trail. There is no day-use fee. See www. parks.ca.gov/?page_id=441.

porta-potties. There is no day-use fee. See www.parks. ca.gov/?page_id=437. ¶ July 2017

MendoLakeFamilyLife 11

They’ll learn facts about the sea and its inhabitants, too. 3+, $29.99.

Tech Toys Fun with Augmented Reality

K

ids love technology. And augmented reality (AR), with its ability to make 2-D objects into a 3-D experience, is particularly captivating. So why not use AR to help children learn, especially when they are prone to losing newly acquired skills over break? These games keep kids’ brains—and summer play—in full gear.

Cube-tastic! uses an app and a mobile phone or tablet to help anyone learn to “conquer the cube.” After an identical virtual copy is created in the app, kids learn to solve the puzzle with a customized, step-by-step tutorial. 5+, $19.99.

12 MendoLakeFamilyLife

Ocean Pets pairs AR with creativity to turn every space into a virtual aquarium. Children can use the special putty and ocean templates to create their own ocean pets. Then they can scan their creations and watch them move.

TJ & the Beanstalk 3-D storybooks bring fairytales to life with the help of AR. Kids can interact with the story and become a part of TJ’s adventure. 3+, $14.99.

TJ & his Magical Garden is based on Oscar Wilde’s tale “The Selfish Giant.” With the help of 3-D AR and a compatible device, this story teaches a valuable lesson about sharing with others. 3+, $14.99.

TJ and His Team of Heroes is based on a Japanese folktale about teamwork and friendship. In this AR adventure, children help TJ and his friends protect the village from a wild boar. 3+, $14.99. ¶ Visit www.pai.technology and use code SFAMLIFE to get a 15 percent discount off of any of these or other Pai products through July 28.

July 2017 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Crafting with Kids

TUBE OWLS

Make Cardboard Sing!

By Jemma Westing

I

t’s really quick and easy to transform a cardboard tube into one of these lovable owls. Making a few simple cuts into the tube will give your owl feet, a beak, and wings!

You will need Cardboard tube Scissors Paintbrushes Paints Pencil All you need to do is cut, fold, and paint a cardboard tube.

Difficulty level: Easy

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

1 2 3 4

First, make the owl’s feet. Gently flatten your tube and draw four short lines, spaced apart as shown. Make cuts along all four lines.

The cuts that you have made will create two flaps.

Fold these flaps outward and away from the tube to make the owl’s feet.

Now that you have folded the feet over, trim around the base of the tube. Cut away any cardboard that is below the level of the feet.

To finish making the feet, draw zigzag lines on the end of each foot. Carefully cut along the lines to give your owl nice pointed talons.

July 2017

5 6 7

Next, make the owl’s beak.

Using a pencil, carefully draw a V shape in the center of the tube.

Squeeze the tube a little to help you cut along the two lines. Then pry out the beak and gently fold it up away from the tube, making sure it doesn’t tear.

To make the owl’s head, press down the front and back edges of the top of the tube.

Then fold them inward to form a curved head shape. ¶

Images and text of Out of the Box reprinted by permission of DK, a division of Penguin Random House LLC. Copyright © 2017 by Jemma Westing.

MendoLakeFamilyLife 13

July

Calendar of Events

Soothe Your Senses

E

ver noticed how certain smells—rose or a bit of lavender— can inspire a deep breath and a moment of relaxation? At the free Natural Health Solutions with Essential Oils talk, learn about how essential oils can help not only emotional, but also physical well-being. It can be as simple as spraying a lavender mist around the house when stress runs high, diffusing tea tree oil to keep germs from spreading, or applying a cooling peppermint lotion for relief from July heat. The talk will be held on July 24 at noon at B Young Wellness in Kellseyville. See byoungwellness.com or e-mail brenda@byoungwellness.com for more information. ¶

Saturday 1 50th Annual International Worm Races. 3 age classes: under 6, 7–14

& 15 & up. Noon. Austin Park.

14077 Lakeshore Dr., Clearlake. lakecounty.com.

Flynn Creek Circus. A

rurally based, award-winning circus bringing international talent to the North Bay. $12–$25. Thru July 4. July 1: 2:30 & 5:30 p.m. July 2 & 3: 4 & 7 p.m. July 4: 1:30 p.m. (July 20–23

at Napa County Fairgrounds in Calistoga.) Friendship Park. 998 School St., Mendocino. 510-381-4004. flynncreekcircus.com.

FREE Redbud Parade & Festival.

Parade: 11 a.m. Starts at Redbud Park, ends at Austin Park. Followed by live music, food, vendors, carnival, car show & much more. Fireworks: Dusk. $10 to join the parade. Austin Park. 14077 Lakeshore Dr., Clearlake.

11 a.m.–10 p.m. lakecochamber. chambermaster.com.

FREE Land Trust Guided Walk.

Walk on a trail thru oak woodlands, grasslands & scenic vistas. No dogs. 8 a.m. Rodman Preserve. 6350 Westlake Rd., Lakeport. lakecountylandtrust.org.

FREE Fireworks Over Noyo After Dark. Paved walkway suitable for

wheelchairs or strollers. Benches along the way. Dusk. Pomo Bluffs Park. Cliff Way, Fort Bragg.

961-6300. fortbragg.com.

4th of July Celebration. Street fair

with live & DJ music, crafts, activities,

2ND SUNDAY SWAP MEET & FLEA MARKET

SWAP IT AT LAKE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS!

JULY 9 • AUG 13 SEPT 10 • OCT 1 8 AM-2 PM • $1

10X10 VENDOR SPACES JUST $25 • 263-6181 rentals@lakecountyfair.com

401 MARTIN ST. LAKEPORT • LAKECOUNTYFAIR.COM

14 MendoLakeFamilyLife

July 2017 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Family Fun

A Riot of Color

Local Spots to Celebrate Independence Day Lake County July 1

benches along the way for sitting. Dusk.

Free. Pomo Bluffs Park. 961-6300. fortbragg.com.

Clearlake: 60th Annual Redbud Parade and Festival. Theme: “Grand Old Flag.” Parade starts at 11 a.m. in Redbud Park and goes to Austin Park. Festival with arts and crafts vendors, food, and car show in Austin Park 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

Fireworks at dusk. (Carnival June 30–July 4 across the street from Austin Park.) 994-3070.

Point Arena: Fourth of July Celebration. Street fair with live and DJ music, crafts, activities, and food and drinks. Bring flashlights and jackets. No pets.

Parking is limited. Shuttle bus available. Additional parking at City Hall (with shuttle service to the pier). $5–$10. $20 for family of 4. 4–11 p.m. Fireworks at dusk. Point Arena Cove. pointarena.net.

July 2

Hidden Valley Lake: Hidden Valley Lake Association fireworks at dusk.

July 3

Clearlake Oaks: Maxine Sherman Memorial Annual Fireworks Display. Dusk. Fireworks are launched from Clearlake Oaks Beach Park. The best views are from boats anchored east of Rattlesnake Island. If you don’t have access to a boat, the next best viewing area is from Clarks Island. Free. Donations accepted. clearlakeoaks.org/ fireworks.

July 2

Point Arena: Independence Day Parade. Parade travels along Main St./Hwy. 1. Past years’ entries have included fire trucks, classic cars, floats, drum corps, dancers, horses, art cars, and lots of surprises. Noon. Free. Point Arena Cove. pointarena.net.

July 4

July 4

Boonville: Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration.

Children’s parade, water balloon toss, chicken-call contest, tug-of-war, music, and face painting. Food and drinks available. Noon–4 p.m. Parade starts at noon. $5. Ages 14 and under free. Mendocino County Fairgrounds.

Mendocino County July 1

Mendocino: Fourth of July Parade. Floats, dogs, horses, art cars, music, and much more. Noon. Main and Lansing Streets. old.mendocino.com/july4th.html.

Lakeport: Fourth of July Street Faire. Music, activities, vendors, and a variety of food. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Fireworks at dusk. Free. Library Park.

Fort Bragg: Fireworks Over Noyo After Dark. There is a paved walkway suitable for wheelchairs or strollers, and

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

July 2017

MendoLakeFamilyLife 15

©P N

TS

Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (STS)

Where would you like to go?

85th 88th ANNUAL ANNUAL LAKE COUNTY

RODEO

You can fly direct, connect, and enjoy.

Seattle (SEA) - Portland (PDX) - Los Angeles (LAX) Orange County (SNA) - San Diego (SAN) - Phoenix (PHX) San Francisco (SFO) - Las Vegas (LAS) - Minneapolis (MSP)

JULY 8TH, 2017 JULY7TH 11 && 12, 2014 6pm each evening

food & drinks. Bring flashlights & jackets. No pets. Parking is limited.

Additional parking at City Hall (with shuttle service to the pier). $5–$10.

Family of 4: $20. 4–11 p.m. Fireworks: Dusk. Downtown Point Arena. pointarena.net.

World’s Largest Salmon BBQ. Eat, drink, dance & know that you are helping the future of the fish on our coast. $10–$30. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Noyo Harbor. 19250 S. Harbor Dr., Fort Bragg. 961-6300. salmonrestoration.org.

CCPRA PRO RODEO EVENTS EACH NIGHT Bull BullRiding Riding Team TeamRoping Roping Local LocalTeam TeamRoping Roping BarrelRacing Racing Barrel LocalBarrel BarrelRacing Racing Local CalfRoping Roping Calf Bareback Bronc Riding Bareback Bronc Riding SteerWrestling Wrestling Steer Saddle Bronc Riding Saddle Bronc Riding Also: Also: Queen & Princess Contest Queen & Pincesss Contest Little Miss Rodeo Contest Ages 8-11 Mutton Bustin’ Ages 4 to 8 Mutton Bustin’ Ages 4 to 8 Cutest CutestCowpoke CowpokeAges Ages33toto88

Willits Frontier Days. California’s

oldest continuous rodeo. Rodeo activities, parade, contests, horse show, live music & more. See full schedule & admission costs online. Willits Rodeo Grounds. E. Commercial St., Willits. willitsfrontierdays.com.

Fairgrounds ininLakeport Fairgrounds Lakeport www.lakecountyrodeo.com www.lakecountyrodeo.com

1-866-525-3767 1-866-525-3767

Book your tickets today at:

www.flySTS.com

Sunday 2 FREE Independence Day Parade.

GRAND OPENING

Dave’s Bike Shop repaired my stroller’s flat tire!

Parade travels along Main St./Hwy. 1. Past years’ entries have included fire trucks, classic cars, floats, drum corps, dancers, horses, art cars & lots of surprises. Noon. Point Arena Cove.

Point Arena.

FREE Hidden Valley Lake Association Fireworks. Dusk.

Stroller flat repair

CHILDREN 2 FOR 1 SPECIAL Call for appointment 707 809-8199

Get 5 tubes replaced & the 6th tube is free! with paid installation.

We carry flat-resistant tires.

call for pricinG

$100 OFF COMPLETE EYEWEAR PACKAGES Middletown Optometry Office of Dr. Robert Wagner, OD Middletown Plaza 21037 Calistoga Road, Ste. #7

16 MendoLakeFamilyLife

163 E. Gobbi St. Ukiah (707)462-3230 www.DavesBikeShop.com

Hidden Valley Lake. hvla.com.

Monday 3 FREE Summer Food Program.

Konocti Unified School District provides meals to children during the summer. No income requirements. No registration. Any child under 18 may come to eat. Mondays–Fridays. Burns Valley Elementary School (3260 Pine St., Clearlake): 7:45–8:15 a.m. & 11:45 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Thru July 21. Lower Lake High School (9430 Lake St., Lower Lake): 7:30–8:15 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Thru July 7. 994-4543. konoctiusd.org.

July 2017 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

FREE Maxine Sherman Memorial Fireworks. The best viewing area

is on the water, anchored east of Rattlesnake Island. From the shore: Clearlake Oaks Beach. 12684 Island Dr., Clearlake Oaks. Donations appreciated. Dusk. clearlakeoaks.org/ fireworks.

255 N. Main St., Lakeport. 263-4555. lakecochamber.chambermaster.com.

Burns Valley Rd., Clearlake. library. lakecountyca.gov.

FREE Lego Club. Kids

FREE Grace Hudson Museum.

design, build & invent with Legos. Open to children of all ages. Fridays.

2:30–3:30 p.m. at Lakeport Library.

1425 N. High St., Lakeport. Fridays.

3–4 p.m. at Redbud Library. 14785

First Friday of each month.

Wednesday–Saturday. 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 431 S. Main St., Ukiah. 467-2836. gracehudsonmuseum.org.

Tuesday 4 FREE 4th of July Street Faire & Fireworks. Music, activities,

vendors & a variety of food available.

11 a.m.–9 p.m. Fireworks: Dusk.

Library Park. 225 Park St., Lakeport. lakeportmainstreet.com.

FREE Cardboard & Duct Tape Regatta. Races in 3 age categories:

Have a Healthy Summer!

ages 6–12, 13–19 & 20 & up. 11 a.m.– noon. Pre-register: 10 a.m. Library Park. Between 1st & 3rd Streets, Lakeport.

FREE All-American Picnic in the Park. Live entertainment, organized

games, bouncy houses, contests & races. Free swim at Ukiah Municipal Pool. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Todd Grove Park.

600 Live Oak Ave., Ukiah. 463-6231. cityofukiah.com/recreation.

Old Fashioned 4th of July.

Children’s parade, chicken-call contest, music, tug-of-war & more. $5.

Ages 14 & under: free. Noon–4 p.m.

Mendocino County Fairgrounds.

14400 Hwy. 128, Boonville. andersonvalleychamber.com.

88th Annual Lake County Rodeo.

Learn pen & inkwell writing. 5–7 p.m. Historic Courthouse Museum. www.mendolakefamilylife.com

T

L

FREE Museum Family Fun Fridays.

CHC M HEA

Team roping, barrel racing, mutton bustin’ & cow-chip Bingo. $6–$13.

Ages under 12: free with paid admission ticket. July 7 & 8. 6 p.m.

Lake County Fairgrounds. 401 Martin St., Lakeport. lakecountyrodeo.com.

Use sunblock, drink plenty of water, have fun and call us if you need us.

T E RS

Friday 7

H CEN

HILLSIDE (707) 468-1010 333 Laws Ave. Ukiah

5335 Lakeshore Blvd.

Lakeport

LITTLE LAKE (707) 456-9600 45 Hazel St. Willits

WE ACCEPT MEDI-CAL, MEDICARE, PARTNERSHIP AND OTHER INSURANCE.

mchcinc.org

July 2017

LAKEVIEW (707) 263-7725

MCHC HEALTH CENTERS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER AND EMPLOYER.

MendoLakeFamilyLife 17

FREE First Fridays at Alberts. Arts & crafts vendors, music, wine, food, craft beer, kombucha & wood-fired pizza. 4–8 p.m. 44851 N. Hwy. 101, Laytonville. artsmendocino.org.

Bring binoculars. 8:15 a.m. Anderson Ranch Pkwy., Lower Lake. 995-2658. andersonmarsh.org.

$10. 7–10 p.m. Big Valley Hall. 1510 Big Valley Rd., Lakeport. lakecochamber. chambermaster.com.

FREE Lake County’s Open House Extravaganza. Realtors

Family Skate Night. Bring your skates or use the Rec Center’s. $5 drop-in fee. Parent or guardian must sign for kids under 18. 6:30–9 p.m. Old Recreation Center. 213 E. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. 964-9446. mendocoastrec.org.

throughout Lake County will be holding open houses. View reasonably priced real estate. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. lakecountyopenhouses.com.

Pack Rat Sale. Everything from garden supplies & household goods to antiques & collectibles. 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

Mendocino Botanical Gardens. North Parking Lot. 18220 Hwy. 1, Fort Bragg.

964-4352, ext. 17. gardenbythesea.org.

Lake County Fire Benefit. Blues,

Mendocino Music Festival. Eclectic

rockabilly & swamp rock with Richie Blue from Fresno, backed by Steve Evans & Rick Sankey. Raffle & silent auction. Refreshments for sale: wine & beer, soft drinks, cookies. Mutual benefit for Hope City fire rebuild efforts & Big Valley Hall renovations.

musical performances from around the globe. World, jazz & classical.

Thru July 22. See full schedule & ticket prices online. Various venues in Mendocino. 937-2044. mendocinomusic.org.

Saturday 8 FREE Anderson Marsh Nature Walk. Docent-led, family-friendly

hike. 1.5–3 hrs., depending on route.

Sunday 9 Second Sunday Swap Meet. Rain

or shine. $1 admission. 8 a.m.–2 p.m. (10’x10’ vendor spaces available: $25.) Lake County Fairgrounds. 401 Martin St., Lakeport. 263-6181. lakecountyfair.com.

FREE Sunday in the Park Concert Series. Orgone. Funky Afro-beat

jazz. Bring a blanket or low-back chair. Choose from numerous food & beverage vendors or bring a picnic. 6 p.m. Todd Grove Park. 600 Live Oak Ave., Ukiah. 463-6231. cityofukiah. com/sundays-in-the-park.

Fire Up the Grill

D

ig up your special sauce. It’s time for Grillin’ on the Green.

Compete for a prize or just partake of your neighbors’ culinary efforts. Fill up your plate with ribs, chicken, and tri-tip for just $25; admission for ages 5–10 is $10, and for ages 4 and under, free. After you’ve chowed down, dance to the music of the LC Diamonds, take a wagon ride, or check out the car show. There will even be a giant Slip ’n Slide for kids. The event will be held on August 5, 5–8 p.m., at the Westside Community Park in Lakeport. Want to compete? Just call Cindy at 263-7091 or Dennis at 349-0969. There’s no entry fee. ¶

18 MendoLakeFamilyLife

Exhibit Opening. California’s Wild Edge: The Coast in Prints, Poetry & History. Admission: $3–$4. $10 for families. 10 a.m.– 4:30 p.m.

431 S. Main St., Ukiah. 467-2836. gracehudsonmuseum.org.

Friday 14 FREE Moonlight Movie Madness.

Grab your blankets & low-back chairs & enjoy movies on the big screen under the stars. July 14: Zootopia (PG). Alex R. Thomas Plaza. 310 S. State St., Ukiah. cityofukiah.com/ moonlight-movie-madness.

July 2017 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Saturday 15

Sunday 16

FREE Family Fun in the Sun. Arts & crafts, games, bouncy houses, balloons, healthy snacks, drinks & other fun activities. 9:30 a.m.–noon. Vinewood Park. 1260 Elm St., Ukiah. 463-6231. cityofukiah.com/family-fun-in-the-sun.

Bastille Fête. An afternoon of French-themed fun with live music, dancing, French food, wine & song.

Wear your favorite French outfit.

Sing-along of French national anthem. $15–$25. 3 p.m. Soper Reese Theatre.

275 S. Main St., Lakeport. 263-0577. soperreesetheatre.com.

Criterium Bicycle Race. .7-mile loop

bike race through downtown Lakeport.

Beer garden & other vendors. 9 a.m.– 6 p.m. (Free Kids’ Race: 12:30 p.m.)

Race registration: $40–$50. City streets closed for this event. Course: Main to Martin to Forbes to 4th Streets. lakeportcrit.com.

FREE Summer Arts & Crafts Fair. Thru July 16. 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Mendocino Art Center. 45200 Little Lake St., Mendocino. 937-5818. mendocinoartcenter.org.

Friday 21

Thursday 20 FREE Evening Breastfeeding Support Group. Breastfeeding

support for all the working mamas out there. Bring your babies, meet other moms, share struggles & be uplifted, encouraged & empowered. 5:30 p.m.

Mendo Baby. 198 S. School St., Ukiah.

462-1020. facebook.com/MendoBaby.

FREE Concerts on the Green. Enjoy the band Decades. No personal alcohol or dogs allowed. BBQ on sale.

5–8 p.m. Hidden Valley Lake Practice Green. 19210 Hartmann Rd., Hidden Valley Lake. hvla.com.

Saturday 22 Taylor Observatory. Bring your own

flashlight or use one of our loaners.

Due to Lake County clear skies, it can get quite cold at night. Warm clothing is recommended. $3–$5.

7:30 p.m. Taylor Observatory. 5725 Oak Hills Ln., Kelseyville. 262-4121. taylorobservatory.org.

Kids Triathlon. Be part of the

first triathlon hosted by Healthy Mendocino & City of Ukiah. Ages 15 & under. $15 registration includes goodie bag, lunch, t-shirt & pool

ONE-CLICK GIVEAWAYS! Sign up for our weekly FUN BLAST & enter to win free goodies every week MendoLakeFamilyLife.com

Riotously funny and dangerously inspiring...

An all-human, all ages blast!

FREE CHILD TICKET WITH ADULT PURCHASE USE PROMO CODE: NINGRATML LIMIT 1 PER ORDER, ONLINE TICKET PURCHASE ONLY

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

July 2017

MendoLakeFamilyLife 19

pass. 9 a.m.–noon. Todd Grove Park.

600 Live Oak Ave., Ukiah. 463-6231. cityofukiah.com/kids-triathlon.

FREE Sadie Hawkins Sailboat Race. The Konocti Bay Sailing

Club is having a sailboat race where only women can be on the tiller steering the boat. Come prepared to sail yourself. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. (11 a.m.: skippers’ meeting when crew is chosen.) Tiki Hut. 1555 Eastlake Dr., Kelseyville. 291-0698. lakecochamber.chambermaster.com.

FREE Mendocino Street Fairs.

Local artists & craftspeople come together to display & sell their handmade arts & crafts. Proceeds benefit the Mendocino Land Trust.

10 a.m.–4 p.m. Heider Field. Ford & Little Lake Streets, Mendocino. visitmendocino.com.

FREE Speakeasy Monologues.

Locals tell the stories of their lives thru the art of monologue. July 22: 8 p.m. July 23: 2 p.m. Willits Community Theatre. 37 W. Van Ln., Willits. willitstheatre.org.

Anderson Valley Barrel Tasting. 20

$20–$25. Various wineries.

895-WINE. avwines.com.

Sunday 23 Sundays in the Park Concert Series.

Ozomatli. Latin urban reggae.

With Real Sarahs. 6 p.m. Todd Grove Park. 600 Live Oak Ave., Ukiah. 463-6231. cityofukiah.com/ sundays-in-the-park.

FREE Coastal Trail Bird Walk.

Bring water & wear comfortable walking shoes. Binoculars available. Heavy rain cancels. 10 a.m.–noon. Meet near restroom at East end of parking lot at the foot of Elm St., Fort Bragg. mendocinocoastaudubon.org.

Thursday 27 Chicago. Musical

set in 1920s Chicago. A dazzling & satirical look at fame, justice & the media machine. Presented by Gloriana Music Theater. $6–$25. Thursdays– Saturdays: 7:30 p.m. Sundays: 3 p.m.

Thru Aug. 13. Eagle Hall. 210 N. Corry St., Fort Bragg. 964-SHOW. gloriana.org.

local wineries. Thru July 23.

Love Working with Kids?

WORK AT HOME • CHOOSE YOUR OWN HOURS • WORK WITH CHILDREN Own Your Own Business • Free Training and other great incentives for attending fun workshops.

• Child Care Assistance for lowincome eligible families.

• Free Child Care Referrals.

1-800-606-5550 ext. 211 20 MendoLakeFamilyLife

Rural Communities Child Care

Friday 28 The Not-So-Simple Living Fair. A weekend of hands-on workshops & demonstrations celebrating rural living & homesteading skills for both kids & adults. $30–$50. No dogs permitted.

July 28: Doors open 3 p.m. July 29 & 30: Doors open 9 a.m. Mendocino County Fairgrounds. 14400 Hwy. 128, Boonville. notsosimple.info.

FREE Moonlight Movie Madness.

Grab your blankets & low-back chairs & enjoy movies on the big screen under the stars. Toy Story (G). 8:30 p.m. Alex R. Thomas Plaza. 310 S. State St., Ukiah. cityofukiah.com/ moonlight-movie-madness.

Saturday 29 FREE Shakespeare at the Lake.

Much Ado About Nothing. Presented by Mendocino College & Lake County Theater Company. Bring low-back chair or blanket. Thru July 30. 6:30 p.m. Library Park. 225 Park St., Lakeport.

FREE Annual Sports Physicals. Frank R. Howard Memorial Hospital is offering free sports physical exams to children in elementary & high school participating in a sports program.

8 a.m.–noon. 3 Marcela Dr., Ste. C, Willits. Reserve a spot: 456-3185.

P.S. We Love You! Annual fundraiser of Project Sanctuary, a domestic violence & rape crisis center. Live auction, dinner & dancing under the stars. Nelson Family Vineyards. 550 Nelson Ranch Rd., Ukiah. 462-3755. projectsanctuary.org.

Sunday 30 FREE Sundays in the Park Concert Series. David Luning Band. Rockin’

country Americana. 6 p.m. Todd Grove Park. 600 Live Oak Ave., Ukiah. 463-6231. cityofukiah.com/ sundays-in-the-park.

July 2017 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Marketplace Preschools

Schools

Give Your Give Child a Head Start!

Cardboard and Duct Tape Regatta

integrated with academics Near Brookside School at ✓ Referrals for transportation available Free & Low-Cost Spruce St. & Lincoln Way  National Green Campus Quality Preschool!

• Lake County Also providing FREE in-home services for

 Promotes responsibility, Upper Lake - 2nd Street infants, toddlers & pregnant women!

Head Start Child Development Program www.ncoinc.org Head Start

The Wonders of Duct Tape

T

o the uninitiated, it may seem impossible to build a viable vessel from cardboard and duct tape. But Lakeport folks know it’s not only possible, you can race the finished product, too. See locals set their unique boats afloat in Clear Lake at the annual Cardboard and Duct Tape Regatta in Lakeport. A Fourth of July tradition, the event will happen 11 a.m.–noon at Library Park, between 1st and 3rd Streets, in Lakeport. (Pre-register at the park at 10 a.m.) Races will be held in three categories: ages 6­–12, 13–19, and 20 and up. Thinking of entering? Advance your cardboard engineering skills with the help of YouTube videos. Just search on “how to make a cardboard and duct tape boat.” ¶

Applications online: www.ncoinc.org • (707) 462-2582

Afterschool

RPP Hobby Lakeport Downtown Criterium

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

• Coastnorth end of Fairgrounds Fort Bragg - Lincoln St. PO Box 966 Ukiah 95482

treeoflifeschool@pacific.net www.treeoflifeschool.net

STRANGER

DANGER! Awareness & training class Maldonado Martial Arts & Fitness (707) 462-5794

• Traditional Okinawan karate • Classes for the whole family • Multiple member discounts available Mention this ad & get 10% off your first month dues

Ukiah Shorin-Ryu Karate 3001 #4 So. State St. Ukiah 707-463-DOJO (3656) www.ukiahkarate.com

Ride to Glory hat is the sound of hundreds of wheels whirring? Find out at the RPP Hobby Lakeport Downtown Criterium, a fast-paced bike race through the streets of Lakeport.

On July 15, beginner to pro cyclists from all over Northern California will compete for cash prizes as they ride a .7-mile loop for 35–75 minutes. The course starts and finishes at downtown Lakeport’s Museum Park on Main Street and goes through Martin, Forbes, and 4th Streets. Races will run 9 a.m.–5:45 p.m., with a break at 12:30 p.m. for the Kids’ Race, when wee ones and their training wheels will take to the road. Interested in participating? Go to lakeportcrit.com to register; the fee is $40–$50. Children can register at the event for the Kids’ Race; it’s free. ¶

Lakeport - Howard Ave. Clearlake - Pearl Ave. ClearlakeLocated - Meadowbrookon Dr.

707-462-0913

Learn Self-Esteem Through Self-Defense



Lake - Clover Valley respect, andUpper peace

(707)Development 462-2582 Program License #230111843 Child

Bully-Proof Your Child

W

C E N T E R S

Free Your & Low-Cost Quality Preschool!

• Ukiah Child a classroomsTuition-free ✓ 1/2-day & full-day for Montessori North Ukiah - Bush St. ages 18 months to 5 years Nokomis - Washington Ave. Head elementary South forUkiah ages 5-13 - S. State St. ✓ Potty-trained not necessary Peach Tree - S. Orchard Ave. Start!

Hands-on, arts and music  ✓ Children with disabilities welcome • Willits

Health

Ukiah Family Chiropractic

La Vida

Charter School • Free K-12 Public Charter • Home Study with On-Site Classes • WASC Accredited 707-459-6344 www.LaVidaSchool.org 16201 N. Hwy. 101, Willits

Accelerated Achievement Academy US News and World Reports: America’s Best High Schools Bronze Medal  Free public school  Grades 4-12  Small classes  Support for struggling

students



Call today!

(707) 463-7080

Pregnancy, Pediatrics, & Pain Relief!

Mention this ad for a free exam

Feel better today!

1081 S. Dora St., Suite B • Ukiah 707-972-4983 www.ukiahfamilychiropractic.com

July 2017

Like Us On Facebook MendoLakeFamilyLife 21

Humor Break

Children Are Everywhere Surrendering to Summer Chaos Play is a full-time occupation for the author’s kids.

By Holly Hester

I

t’s become almost impossible to write. It’s not that I don’t want to.

It’s not that I don’t have things to say (regardless of how trivial). It’s not that my incessant need to be heard has diminished.

It’s that my children are here, staring at me, all the time. They are staring at me right now, as I write this.

No school. No camp. They had a couple of camps in June, but July and August are camp-less. They have settled in at Camp Holly, where I am apparently the activities director, frivolity coordinator, and banana split on-demand chef. My children see Camp Holly as a 24-hour, seven-days-a-week camp, where writing of any kind is not permitted.

During the school year, I wake up at five and write until seven, when I wake up Buck for school. (He goes to school five days a week.) On Tuesdays and Thursdays, Emerson and August go to their homeschool program, and I get another eight hours of writing in. By the end of the week, it adds up to a pretty decent amount of writing time. Now those Tuesdays and Thursdays are gone.

I still could write early in the morning, but the kids stay up so late. It’ll be nine

22 MendoLakeFamilyLife

o’clock at night, and I’ll be squawking at them to get off the trampoline.

Sometimes I’ll look at the clock while I’m reading August a bedtime story and realize it’s 10:30 p.m. He’s five. That’s not a Dr. Sears–approved bedtime. By the time Bill and I get to

You win, summer. I will release my inherited German rigid attributes and become more, let’s say, Italian. bed it’s after midnight and I cannot, just cannot, get up at 5 a.m. I am not a robot; I have organs and things that need rest.

So as of today, July 1, I’ve officially given myself over to summertime. You win, summer.

I will release my inherited German rigid attributes and become more, let’s say, Italian.

I will practice the fine art of doing nothing. I will not be too disturbed if I don’t blog constantly. I always have things to say, but if I cannot get to my computer every day, I will say them to the lambs. So far,

they seem to be a pretty receptive audience—or at least better than the goats. The last I checked, they were climbing on the trampoline.

So, dear computer, hopefully I will see you soon. It might not be tomorrow.

Or the next day. Or maybe it will be. I don’t know.

That’s the thing about summer.

You have to jump into its delicious unpredictability.

Arrivederci ¶ Holly Hester lives in Sebastopol and writes about life on her blog, Riot Ranch. Find her book, Escape from Ugly Mom Island!, on Amazon.

The author’s goats take to the trampoline.

July 2017 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Quality Christian Education

WRITE, RECORD, PRODUCE, PERFORM! Christ-centered education in Ukiah • Small class sizes • College-prep curriculum • Music program • Family-like atmosphere • Fully accredited grades K–10

Enrolling Now!

At Canova Records Music School, students learn to write, record, produce, market and perform their own original music. The school is also an Independent Record Label exclusively signing contracts with kids.

Join us for our Rock Band Camps this Summer!

Groups of 4 work with Individual Instructors, producing original songs and culminating with a Battle of the Bands performance contest.

Good fun for All Ages.

CANOVA RECORDS

UKIAH JUNIOR ACADEMY

246 N. State St. Ukiah • 707-354-2377 www.facebook.com/canovarecords

180 Stipp Lane, Ukiah • www.myuja.org • 707.462.6350

Give Start!

GiveYour Your Child Child a Head Head Start!

Free & Low-Cost Quality Quality Preschool!

Free & Low-Cost Preschool!

AlsoAlso providing FREE FREE in-home servicesservices for providing in-home infants, toddlers toddlers & pregnant& women! for infants, pregnant women!

Head Start Child Development Program License #230111843 Applicationsonline: online:www.ncoinc.org www.ncoinc.org••(707) (707)462-2582 462-2582 Applications www.mendolakefamilylife.com

July 2017

• Ukiah

C E NN TT EE RR SS

✓ 1/2-day & full-day classrooms for ✔ 1/2-day & full-day classrooms for ages 18 months to 5 years ages 18 months to 5 years ✓✔ Potty-trained not necessary Potty-trained not necessary ✓✔ Children with disabilities welcome Children with disabilities welcome ✓✔ Referrals for transportation available Referrals for transportation available

•North Ukiah Ukiah - Bush St.

North Ukiah - Bush St.

Nokomis - Washington Ave. Nokomis - Washington Ave. South Ukiah - S. State St. South Ukiah - S. State St. Peach Ave. PeachTree Tree--S.S.Orchard Orchard Ave.

• Willits

•Near Willits Brookside School at

Near Brookside School at

Spruce St. & Lincoln Way Spruce St. & Lincoln Way

• Lake County

•Upper Lake County Lake - 2nd Street Upper Lake - 2nd Street

Upper Lake - Clover Valley Upper Lake - Clover Valley Lakeport Lakeport- -Howard Howard Ave. Ave. Clearlake Pearl Clearlake - Pearl Ave. Ave. Clearlake Dr. Clearlake--Meadowbrook Meadowbrook Dr.

••Coast Coast

Fort St. FortBragg Bragg-- Lincoln Lincoln St. MendoLakeFamilyLife 23

Free Sports Physicals

FOR ALL STUDENTS 18 AND UNDER Make sure your child is ready to play!

Schedule an appointment today!

Please bring any necessary paperwork required by your school. Appointments are encouraged since scheduled times are limited. Our physicians will provide assessments and other free health screenings and education will be offered for parents too, including: • Diabetes Screening • Blood Pressure Screening • Inbody (Body Composition Testing)

Saturday, July 29 Sunday, August 6 8:00 a.m. to Noon Scheduled times are limited.

Reserve your spot today!

Redwood Medical Clinic 3 Marcela Drive, Suite C in Willits

Call 707.456.3185

Spots are limited! Call 707.456.3185 today!

Frank R. Howard Memorial Hospital