mendo lake FREE!
November 2018
Turkey Day
Special diets
Smart Help Hire affordable tutors
Give Back Make it fun! Top Teacher Local wins state prize
It’s Cold and Flu Season Protect yourself. Protect others. Get a flu vaccine! Wash your hands frequently. Cover your cough and sneezes. Wear a mask to prevent the spread of germs.
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November 2018
Every Issue 6
Dear Reader
8
Bits and Pieces Block Bots Rock for Food Sweet as Pie
16 Features 10 The Healthy Holiday Host Gluten-free or dairy-free guests? No problem!
Crafty Gifts Forage for Fungi Top Teacher Who Needs Snow?
20 Crafting with Kids Bath Salt Bonanza
12 The Great Family Give-Back Creative ways to contribute.
14 Smart Help How to find a good tutor.
22 Calendar of Events Echoes of the Past
30 Humor The Case of the Missing Library Book
16 The Wonder of Words Cultivate a love of reading.
18 Homework Hero Tips for helping kids to stay focused and calm.
8 4 MendoLakeFamilyLife
20
November 2018 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
9
UKIAH UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT LEARN • INSPIRE • CREATE • GROW • COMMUNICATE • COLLABORATE • DEVELOP • INNOVATE
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Dear Reader
I
t has begun: the holiday season and all the joy (and busyness) that comes with it. We’re here Sharon Gowan to help take the Publisher/Editor Sharon@family-life.us stress out of it. See “The Healthy Holiday Host” (page 10) for easy ways to accommodate the eating eccentricities of everyone on your guest list, and our Calendar of Events (page 22) for ideas for keeping visiting relatives entertained. Want to make sure your kids really get into the spirit of the season? See “The Great Family Give-Back” (page 12) for creative
ways the clan can contribute to the community. Even though the holidays are in high gear, school keeps chugging along. And that means homework as usual. If your kids struggle to stay on task, read “Homework Hero” (page 18) for tips for keeping them interested and motivated. If your children are experiencing academic troubles that a little extra parental attention won’t cure, consider hiring a tutor. “Smart Help” (page 14) has tips on a finding one you can afford. We hope your Thanksgiving is full of familial togetherness and love.
Office Manager Patricia Ramos patty@family-life.us
Business Marketing Renee Nutcher renee@family-life.us Warren Kaufman warren@family-life.us
Features Editor Melissa Chianta melissa@family-life.us
Production Manager Donna Bogener production@family-life.us
Web and Social Media Natalie Bruzon natalie@family-life.us
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KEEP YOUR KIDS IN SCHOOL. 6 MendoLakeFamilyLife
Being absent just 2-3 days a month in the first few years of school makes it really hard to master reading. If your kids don’t read at grade level by third grade, their chances of graduating from high school plummet.
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Contributing Writers Kimberly Blaker Christa Melnyk Hines Christina Katz Janeen Lewis Cheryl Maguire Meagan Ruffing
Billing Jan Wasson-Smith
Publishing Office P.O. Box 351 Philo, CA 95466 (707) 586-9562
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MOUNTAIN MIKE’S PIZZA NOW OPEN IN UKIAH! BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY! OR GET IT DELIVERED EASY ONLINE ORDERING MOUNTAINMIKES.COM
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Pizza...the way it ought to be.
Bits & Pieces
Block Bots
K
ids love to let their imaginations run wild with Legos. When they are done building tall towers and mythical creatures, robots may be the next frontier. How do you make bots out of plastic blocks? Kids can find out when they participate in the interactive activities at Lego Robots. The free classes are held at Redbud Library in Clearlake the second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.–noon, with the next one happening on November 10. See facebook.com/events/1835046689892846 for a schedule of similar classes at other Lake County libraries. ¶
Lego robots
Rock for Food
Johnny Young Band
W
hile most of us feast through the holiday season, there are many others who go without. The Rock for Food fundraiser for the Ukiah Food Bank aims to help fill the pantries of those in need. Dance to the country sounds of the Johnny Young Band and blues/southern rock favorites of Double Standyrd knowing your fast feet are helping speed local families’ journeys out of hunger. The concert will be held on November 17 at 8 p.m. at Club Capella in Ukiah. Admission is a $10 donation. See facebook.com/ events/722892174729434/ for further information. ¶
Sweet as Pie
“L
ife is better with music and pie.” While a quick Google search reveals that this is not, apparently, a famous motto, we editors think it should be. If you agree with us, Sing Out!: An Autumn Evening of Music and Pie might agree with you. The fundraiser for the Cancer Resource Centers of Mendocino County features a sing-along with live music, and sugary and savory pies. What’s not to love? Bring your sweet tooth and your vocal chops on November 10, 5:30–8:30 p.m., at the Willits Center for the Arts in Willits. Admission is $10. For details, see the event listing on eventbrite.com. ¶
8 MendoLakeFamilyLife
Crafty Gifts
S
anta isn’t the only one who has a gift list. Mom and Dad do, too. And, unlike Santa, Mom and Dad have day jobs. So to make their lives easier, there are craft fairs. The Lakeport Senior Center in Lakeport is holding one on November 11, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Vendors will sell everything from essential oils to Tupperware and entry is free. ¶
November 2018 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
Forage for Fungi
Erica Boomer and family
M
ushrooms offend some palates and tantalize others. If yours is among the latter group, then behold Feast Mendocino, the annual celebration of local fungi. Among numerous events will be a Mushroom Exploration: On November 2 spend the afternoon foraging for fungi with mycological enthusiast Adrienne Long. Meet at 11:45 a.m. in the lobby of the Stanford Inn in Mendocino for a short talk before you head out to meadows and forests. Tickets are $45 or $20 for ages 2–16. Reservations and prepayment are required; call 937-5615. For a complete festival brochure, go to visitmendocino.com and search on “Feast Mendocino.” ¶
Top Teacher
W
hen Upper Lake High School teacher Erica Boomer was notified in early October that she was one of the finalists for the California Teacher of the Year award, she was nervous and excited. “I had no idea what to expect,” she says.
When she actually won, she was “shocked.” “It has been a humbling experience so far,” she remarked, the day after returning from Sacramento, where she met the other four winners of the award. A Lake County native, Boomer went to Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, and then returned to start the Ag Program at Upper Lake High School in Upper Lake.
Who Needs Snow?
C
alifornians don’t let the absence of the white stuff keep them from wintertime fun. They just get creative. For example, kids still make snowmen, just out of materials like garbage bags and old tires. See their creations at the Snowman Contest display at the Dickens’ Fair, which will be held on November 24, 11 a.m.–6 p.m., in downtown Lakeport. Besides crafty snow people, there will be booths selling gift items, an opportunity to take photos with Santa (until 3 p.m.) and, at 5:30 p.m., the annual lighting of the town tree. The event is free and 19th-century costumes are encouraged. ¶
www.mendolakefamilylife.com
November 2018
“The leadership opportunities that are available to students through FFA [Future Farmers of America] are so amazing,” she exclaims. “The FFA motto of ‘Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve’ is lived out by our students not only in the classroom but within our community through the many service activities that they plan throughout the year.” Boomer, a married mother of two, will be speaking at various events in 2019 and plans to “shine a positive light on all of the great things that are being done in education, especially career technical education and agricultural education programs,” she says. “I look forward to sharing my passion for teaching and my love of agricultural education and the FFA organization with others.” ¶ MendoLakeFamilyLife 9
2. Be careful not to cross-contaminate. Cross contamination occurs when a small piece of a food allergen accidentally gets into another food. Wash hands frequently, keep spoons for each dish separate, and be aware of cross-contamination for more than just serving utensils. If you chop
The Healthy Holiday Host 10 Hints for Planning Meals for Special Diets By Janeen Lewis
W
hen most people think of the holidays, visions of festive foods dance in their heads. And if you’re hosting this holiday, you undoubtedly want to create a special dinner for family and friends. The only problem is that you’re likely to have at least one guest with a special diet. Some people have food allergies while others have changed their diets to combat heart disease, diabetes, or cancer, and still others are trying special diets like plant-based and Paleo. If you hope to be the host with the most, creating a meal to satisfy everyone can be stressful.
Never fear! The following tips have you covered. They include practical, easy ways to make any holiday dinner a hit. 1. Inquire when you invite. If you send out invitations, make 10 MendoLakeFamilyLife
a note with the RSVP that asks guests to write down any allergies, restrictions, or needs. You might even make a spreadsheet or simple table of guests to help with organization.
Don’t be afraid to ask your guests to bring a dish to share. an ingredient that is an allergen on your cutting board, blend it together in a mixing bowl, or bake it on a cookie sheet, be sure to wash these items also, or you are at risk of cross-contaminating food. 3. Keep wrappers from pre-packaged foods. There are a plethora of options for holiday dishes in the freezer and specialty aisles of the grocery store. Save time and sanity by using them, but keep the packaging on hand so that you can tell guests confidently what the ingredients are. 4. Use simple substitutes. The key to serving a delectable meal and keeping everyone safe is swapping ingredients. For example, one easy substitute is to use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth. This keeps the food friendly for vegans. Or you can substitute olive oil for butter for someone who is allergic to dairy. Find recipes that sweeten desserts with honey, agave nectar, syrups, molasses, applesauce, dates, or bananas. Risotto or quinoa can be substituted for, or served in addition to, stuffing so you can offer a gluten-free
November 2018 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
option. And sometimes less is more. If you completely delete a troublesome ingredient, and you can’t tell a distinct difference, go for that option.
There are a plethora of options for holiday dishes in the freezer and specialty aisles of the grocery store. without dairy or meat, or fruit salads sweetened with natural alternatives are a great way to fill up the table and give everyone a chance to share the same food fare. 7. Label dishes with place cards. When friends and family that haven’t seen one another for months or years get together, there’s so much laughter and talk, it’s easy to forget to discuss dietary restrictions. Food labels not only keep your guests informed about the food, they add an attractive touch to your table setting. Make food labels to go with each dish ahead of time. Or make a label station with decorative markers close www.mendolakefamilylife.com
9. Don’t try to do it all. Don’t be afraid to ask your guests to bring a dish to share. Maybe you prepare the meat and bread, and have everyone else bring a side. It can add to the fun of eating a meal together if your guests can expand their culinary tastes and bring different styles of cooking to the celebration. 10. Be open to new traditions. Holiday meals are steeped in tradition and when diets change, it’s hard to let go of familiar dishes. But you never know, you might actually like Tofurky, or risotto instead of stuffing, or a lighter, healthier version of sweet potato soufflé and scalloped potatoes. Don’t be afraid to embrace some new traditions as you cook for friends and family, and you will keep your holiday table open and warm. ¶ Janeen Lewis is a teacher, writer, and mom who has been published in several parenting magazines across the country and more than a dozen Chicken Soup for the Soul anthologies.
November 2018
TS
6. Create some “everybody” dishes. It’s a good idea to create plenty of sides that are friendly for everybody, including surprise guests. Your nephew may call the day before and ask if he can bring his new girlfriend, and she’s a vegetarian. Veggies without butter, soups
8. Serve food buffet style. Serving food buffet style with labels is a good way to let diners know what they can and can’t eat. Be careful to keep spoons with the right dishes, or better yet, label serving utensils with the food name each one goes with. Put a small plate or spoon rest in front of each dish so that juices and food bits are contained.
FLY ©P N
5. Make two versions of a favorite dish. It’s easy to make some dishes two ways. You can make stuffing and rolls with and without gluten. You can make a broccoli casserole or green bean casserole with and without cheese.
to the food for guests to label food, especially those that contain the most common allergens: dairy, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans.
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and streamline what’s on display. If you haven’t shared your kids’ recent masterpieces with far-away relatives, before you toss anything create a quick slideshow or photo collage and then e-mail it to extended family.
The Great Family 15 Ways to Give-Back Teach Generosity
7. Knock-knock. If a neighbor has a new baby, a health issue, or is going through a tough time, see what your family can do to help. Maybe a pot of vegetable soup or some store-bought cupcakes would spread some cheer. Perhaps your family could head over to mow the lawn, rake leaves, and clean up the yard. When in doubt, ask!
Teach your kids to be a force for good everywhere they go.
By Christina Katz
I
t’s that time of year when we focus on giving thanks for our blessings as well as on what we can give to others. Wondering how to instill the value of generosity in your kids? Here are 20 ideas.
1. The family that volunteers together… Volunteermatch.org will deliver local volunteer opportunities to your inbox. Get kids involved in choosing ways to volunteer. Why not make a day of it? It may even become a tradition. 2. Crochet for a cause. Do you like to crochet? Make hats for newborns. The Crochet Guild of America has a long list of charities looking for donations. Visit crochet. org/page/charity to learn more. 3. Purge what’s not needed. Go through closets and drawers and donate clothing, shoes, and supplies that no longer suit your family. Deliver 12 MendoLakeFamilyLife
items to your favorite local resale shop for that fresh-start feeling. 4. Make someone’s day. Small acts of kindness are contagious. Pay for the ice cream cone, hot dog, or popcorn for the next person in line. Whenever anyone does this for you, be sure to spread the news on social media. Hearing about good deeds can bring a smile to someone’s face. 5. Roll up your sleeves. Save a life by donating blood. Make this generous gesture a rite of passage for eligible teens in your family. Go out for a sweet treat afterwards to recharge. 6. Update décor. Encourage kids to sort through their rooms
8. Pitch it. If you have something bulky you no longer need, put it on the curb with a “Free” sign. 9. Kindness patrol. When your children are in a funk, redirecting their attention toward caring for others can help them snap out of it. Challenge your kids to be on alert for ways to be helpful in the moment. If an elderly person needs a door held open or if a fussy baby needs some silly grins, teach your kids to jump in and be a force for good everywhere they go. 10. Scout for opportunities. Focus on the positive and be wealthy forever. When out in public, teach your kids how to spot things they appreciate, such as blossoming flowers, pretty images, and soothing sounds. 11. Reach out a hand. Charge kids with the mission of doing something
November 2018 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
GIVE US A SHOUT!
good for someone else before they can have more screen time. The kind act can be for someone within or outside your family or even a pet. Young children don’t need to be left out. They can always draw someone a picture or help pick up a sibling’s toys.
We want to know what you think. • What did you like in this issue? • What do you want to see more or less of? • Know a teacher, coach, or special person who makes local family life better? • Know of an upcoming event or fun family outing? • Want to write stories or recipes, or blog for Family Life?
e-mail melissa@family-life.us
12. Compliment crusade. Each day, invite your kids to find reasons to sincerely compliment other people. 13. Bless those who ask. Instead of giving money to folks who routinely ask for it, why not create mini care packages in a bag? Prepare a blessing bag with some fresh veggies and fruit, a water bottle, some lip balm or sunscreen, and a sweet treat. If there is a chill in the air, add a scarf, hat, gloves, or socks to each bag and deliver it with eye contact and a smile. 14. Think ahead to the holidays. Make holiday gifts from natural supplies like bath salts made with rose petals (see page 20) or lavender blossoms. Shelve the final products until the holiday season rolls around and then embellish them with seasonal wrapping and tags. 15. Clean up the environment. Got a free afternoon and looking for something spontaneous to do? Give everyone a bag, head out of the house, and pick up trash in the areas surrounding your home and neighborhood. For more ways your family can give back year-round, subscribe to the Doing Good Together newsletter at doinggoodtogether.org. ¶ Christina Katz is an author, journalist, and writing coach who relishes the opportunity to give back. Find her at christinakatz.com.
Give an MTA punch pass. It's a gift that keeps on giving up to Give an MTA punchfor pass. It's16a rides. gift Give an MTA punchfor pass. It's16a rides. gift that keeps on giving up to that keeps on giving for up to 16 rides. The MTA Holiday Trolley is Coming 23-Dec. 24. is Coming The MTA Nov. Holiday Trolley The MTA Holiday Trolley Coming 24. is Life Get a route map Nov. in next23-Dec. month's Family Magazine Nov. 23-Dec. 24. Get a route map in next month's Family Life Magazine T P : / / map M E N in D Onext CINO T R A N SFamily I T . O R GLife / F AMagazine RES/ GetHaTroute month's HTTP://MENDOCINOTRANSIT.ORG/FARES/ HTTP://MENDOCINOTRANSIT.ORG/FARES/
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November 2018
MendoLakeFamilyLife 13
in tutoring varies widely, so be sure to check service providers’ reviews. Online tutoring is another popular choice today. But bear in mind, it isn’t the right thing for every child. Also, do your research. Many
Your best bet is to look for someone with a teaching degree.
Smart Help Find a Good, Budget-Friendly Tutor
By Kimberly Blaker
I
If your child has a learning disability, poor or declining grades, weak time management skills, or difficulty understanding his or her homework, it may be time to consider a tutor. But how do you find a good, reliable tutor you can trust? And what if hiring a tutor doesn’t fit your budget? You have options. How to Find a Tutor Your child’s teacher and the school administrator might be able to recommend a local tutor or online resources.
Also, chances are one of your child’s friends has a tutor. So ask other parents for recommendations. Another option is to search online. You’ll likely find a couple of local tutoring companies. These often offer on-site tutoring, although some may offer in-home tutoring as well. 14 MendoLakeFamilyLife
In addition, there are many websites devoted to helping parents find tutors. Takelessons.com provides a searchable database of tutors. Just enter the subject and your zip code to find numerous tutors in your area. You’ll see tutors’ star ratings and their fees. Another source is Care.com, which connects various service professionals, including tutors, with those seeking services. Experience
tutoring websites receive only fair to mediocre reviews at best. The costs for online tutoring aren’t always consistent with quality. Free Tutoring If tutoring isn’t in your budget, you still have options. The first place to start is with your child’s school. Although the No Child Left Behind Act is now defunct, some schools still offer one-on-one tutoring programs for eligible students. Many schools also offer after-school group tutoring where children stay late to work on their homework with a teacher available to assist. Also, some teachers offer after-school tutoring for their students. If tutoring isn’t available at your child’s school, ask trusted family members, neighbors, and friends if they can help. You might be surprised to discover someone you know is very enthused to help your struggling child. Contact your local high schools and community colleges. Students majoring in certain subjects or teaching may be required to tutor. For that reason, students often offer to tutor for free. Another option, the popular Khan Academy website offers free online
November 2018 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
video tutorials for students of all levels. Visit khanacademy.org. What to Look for in a Tutor There are several factors to consider when looking for a tutor for your child. Is the tutor qualified? Your best bet is to look for someone with a teaching degree since tutoring requires skills not everyone possesses. For younger students, as long as the tutor
First, a tutor should be patient, empathetic, positive, passionate, creative, and fun. has a teaching degree, specialization in the particular subject in which your child is struggling isn’t necessary.
From high school and beyond though, you should look for a tutor with expertise in the particular subjects in which your child needs help. Does the tutor have the right personality? First, a tutor should be patient, empathetic, positive, passionate, creative, and fun. These are important characteristics to ensure your child can learn from the tutor and walk away with self-confidence. Also, the tutor’s personality should be a good fit for your child. You want a tutor who can connect with your child. Is the tutor flexible? Each child has her or his own learning style whether it’s visual, aural, physical, verbal, logical, or any combination of these. In addition, some kids are solitary learners whereas others enjoy
learning in groups. Look for a setting and tutor that fit your child’s style. Does the tutor have excellent references? When using an online tutoring service, you’ll often find reviews from previous clients. Look for tutors with overall high ratings and positive comments. If you find your tutor offline or don’t see a significant number of reviews, ask for several references. Bear in mind, though, the references a tutor provides might not be an entirely accurate depiction of his or her character and experience. So use due diligence for your child’s safety and to ensure you’re paying for quality service. ¶ Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer and the author of the kid’s STEM book Horoscopes: Reality or Trickery?, available on Amazon.
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MendoLakeFamilyLife 15
book. He will be more apt to read the book he’s interested in rather than one you insist he read. If there is something he needs to read for school, maybe you can compromise.
It’s fun for kids to go on a “hunt” for books with a specific theme in mind.
The Wonder of Words O
7 Ways to Encourage Kids to Read
By Meagan Ruffing
ne of the best things about being a mom is sitting next to my children and reading with them. Intentionally opening a book every day—even if just to read a few pages—is a great habit to pick up. Over the past ten years, I have found these seven tips fuel our reading time as a family.
1
Grab books celebrating different seasons. November is National Literacy Month and a great time to gather books about Thanksgiving, volunteering, family time, and even turkeys! It’s fun for kids to go on a “hunt” for books with a specific
16 MendoLakeFamilyLife
theme in mind. Don’t have any? No worries. Head to a library. It’s a never-ending free-for-all for a child’s imagination.
2
Let your kids pick out books they want to read. If your son likes Pokémon, let him get a Pokémon
Tell him he can read ten minutes in his Pokémon book and then ten minutes in his schoolbook. You may just end up learning a thing or two about what he likes while enjoying the fact that your son is becoming an avid reader.
3
Carve out time to read together as a family. This might not be realistic every day, but aim for a few times a week. You can all read your own books or read one book together. A book like Madeline is great for kids of all ages. It’s not too long or too short, and there are even a few French words in there that you can talk about together.
4
Have a Read-Off. There’s no better time to start a fun game of “who can read the most” than during National Literacy Month. Make sure you keep it friendly and be mindful of younger kids who might not be able to read as much or as fast as older ones. Each night, have the kids write down how many minutes they’ve read; tally up the totals at the end of the week. Whoever reads the most amount of time receives a prize (think Dollar Store item). Have little prizes for runners-ups and be sure to praise each
November 2018 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
kid for a job well done. Make your Read-Off a monthly or annual thing.
5
Pick out an armful of cheap books at a resale store. Your kids will think it’s the best day ever when you tell them there’s no limit to the number
If it’s nice outside, grab a blanket, a few stuffed animals, and a couple of great books. of books they can get. You can also save even more money if you bring old books to the store and sell them while you’re there. It’s a win-win. Also check out library book sales for inexpensive reads.
6
Choose a special spot at home or in your backyard. One of the great things about reading is that it can pretty much be done anywhere. Kids love to make a big deal out of the most ordinary things and reading is no different. If it’s nice outside, grab a blanket, a few stuffed animals, and a couple of great books. Make it a pseudo-picnic with little snacks and lots of reading together. Take turns reading aloud to shake things up a bit.
7
Use books to initiate difficult discussions. Books can offer doorways into topics that are hard to navigate. I use them to help create a safe
place for my kids to ask important questions. Reading really is one of the best things you can do together. So many
One of the great things about reading is that it can pretty much be done anywhere. wonderful memories of funny words, mispronounced verbs, and voice inflections will have you craving more time together as a family. ¶ Meagan Ruffing is a parenting journalist and avid reader with her three kids. You can check out more of her tips on all-things-kids at meaganruffing.com.
GIVE YOUR CHILD a joy-
ful learning experience full of discovery with: • Exploration of own interests & abilities • Experiential learning with field trips, arts • Respectful and caring learning community • Peace education and mindfulness • Earth stewardship
Tree of Life Charter Free Montessori Elementary Education for Children Ages 5 through 13 For more information: 707-462-0913 treeoflifeschool@pacific.net www.treeoflifeschool.net www.mendolakefamilylife.com
ENJOY THE HOLIDAYS READ TOGETHER UKIAH UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
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November 2018
MendoLakeFamilyLife 17
How can you create a more calming homework atmosphere that will enhance your child’s ability to concentrate and get the job done quickly—without the draining drama? Work in short bursts. Kids get overwhelmed with long worksheets and multiple assignments. Break homework into timed chunks. After a busy day at school, parents can typically expect their youngsters to
Homework Hero
Tips for Conquering Frustration & Distraction
By Christa Melnyk Hines
B
y the time Meira Mednick’s daughter was in third grade, homework time had morphed into lengthy, embattled evenings fraught with angry tears as frustrated daughter and frazzled mom squared off.
“My daughter began showing signs of difficulty in focusing on homework in kindergarten. By second grade we were drowning,” Mednick says. Mednick tried tactics like feeding her first grader an early dinner as soon as she got home from school and giving her time to relax before starting homework. Instead, “We ended up spending the next two years in a tug 18 MendoLakeFamilyLife
of war of time, and many tears were shed,” she says. Many parents can relate and dread the contentious homework hour, which can plunder an otherwise peaceful evening. For kiddos, who struggle to tune out distractions and concentrate on the task at hand, sitting down to do homework doesn’t rank high on their list of priorities.
Yoga stretches and breathing exercises can calm and re-energize a tired body. focus on a task for one minute for each year of their age. That means a six-year-old should be given a two- or three-minute break every six minutes. “Expecting 30 minutes of homework out of a first grader isn’t realistic without breaks,” says Rachel Rudman, a pediatric occupational therapist. The timed approach made a big difference for Mednick’s daughter. “Previously she would be discouraged even before picking up a pencil. By having a timed environment, she knew that she could tackle one interval at a time,” says Mednick, whose daughter is now an eighth-grade honors student. Create smart brain breaks. During the timed breaks engage your child in short activities that help reorganize and refocus the brain, like jumping jacks, playing with Legos or Play-Doh, or snacking on crunchy carrots, pretzel rods, or something chewy like fruit leather.
November 2018 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
Paradise Skate Blowing up a balloon can also help release frustration. “Blowing forces the child to take deep breaths, which increases relaxation and focus,” Rudman says. Avoid electronics, which can be hard to pull away a child from. Strike a pose. Yoga stretches and breathing exercises can calm and re-energize a tired body. Balancing poses like crow pose (bakasana) and airplane pose (dekasana) or a full-body twist (search YouTube for “Seated Yoga Twists for Kids”) combine breathing and concentrated stretching movements. “Balancing poses require a level of concentration...[making them] a great way to strengthen those ‘focus muscles’ and create a body and mind that are strong and relaxed,” says Mariam
Break homework into timed chunks. Gates, the author of the children’s book Good Night Yoga: A Pose-by-Pose Bedtime Story (Sounds True, 2015). Integrate natural elements. Researchers have found that including ornamental plants in a learning area can enhance a child’s ability to concentrate and learn. “And weirdly, the more involved the child is in the plant’s life or maintenance, the more learning goes on,” says Magalie Rene, a classroom design consultant who works with parents and schools to create study spaces that foster learning. Place a plant in your home’s study area and have your child water it as www.mendolakefamilylife.com
a transition cue before beginning homework, Rene suggests. Chew gum. Although the “no gum allowed” rule was grilled into our psyches when we were students, more
Blowing up a balloon can also help release frustration. schools now allow kids to chew gum during state assessments. The chewing movement has an organizing effect on the brain and can help kids focus. Energize with aromatherapy. Scent can have a powerful effect on our emotional well-being. Fill a spray bottle with water and two or three drops of peppermint, rosemary, or citrus essential oil. Spray the scent around the study area to enhance concentration, focus, and creativity. Get organized. Make a homework box either out of a large shoebox or plastic container. Have your child decorate it and use it to store homework supplies, such as pens, pencils, crayons, markers, scissors, paper, a glue stick, and anything else he or she might need. “Having everything together creates an atmosphere of organization and success,” Rudman says. If your youngster continues to struggle with focus and concentration, consult with your family’s pediatrician or a child psychologist. ¶ As the mom of two energetic school-age boys, freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines knows all too well the stress homework time can create in a family. Her latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.
November 2018
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Crafting with Kids
Bath Salt Bonanza DIY Holiday Gifts
By Christina Katz
A
s the gift-giving time of year approaches, try making bath salts. For less than two dollars per gift, you can create thoughtful tokens of appreciation. Here’s how to do it.
Organic materials Organic ingredient with a strong scent (fresh or dried rose petals or lavender buds) Several drops of pure essential oil to complement organic ingredient 8 lbs. Epsom salts
Gather or purchase organic ingredients. The more you include the stronger the scent of the salts and the prettier their appearance, so get more than you think you’ll need. Once you’ve gathered the organic ingredients, carefully inspect them for insects. The last thing you want to do is give a gift full of bugs. Spread your clean petals or buds out in one layer on two cookie sheets and leave them in the oven overnight. (Make sure no one turns on the oven in the meantime.)
Single-hole-punch
The next day, mix together the three salts and the baking soda in a large container. In a roasting pan, cooking pot, or any large non-leaching metal container (we like disposable roasting pans) alternate spreading a layer of salt mixture and then a layer of organic material. Don’t layer the organic material too thickly as you want the salt mixture to absorb the oils from the petals or buds. Once you are finished, cover the container with a double layer of paper towels and then tin foil. Put away the container in a cool, dry place and let sit for a couple of weeks.
12 yds. sheer ribbon to match color of organic ingredient
Assemble canning jars with caps off. Open up salt mixture and smell. There
1 tube sea salt (26.5 oz.) 2.2 lbs. dark pink Himalayan salt 1 box baking soda (16 oz.) Other materials Roasting pan or cooking pot Paper towels Tin foil 12 pint-size canning jars 12 labels in colors to complement bath salt colors Marker(s) to address labels
20 MendoLakeFamilyLife
should be a fairly strong scent. If the scent is not as strong as you would like, try mashing the mixture with a potato masher. If the scent is still not as strong as you prefer, add several drops of essential oil and stir the mixture until the scent comes through. Scoop bath salts into the jars, slightly overfilling and then shaking each jar. Cap jars and put whatever salts are leftover (between a pint and quart) in a sealable glass container. When you are ready to package the bath salts, address labels. With hole-punch, make hole on one end of each label. Cut ribbon to arm’s length and poke through hole. Tie a bow snugly below the mouth of each jar. Store your salts in a cool, dry place until gift-giving season rolls around. And smile, because when the holidays arrive, you will be ready! Christina Katz does not consider herself particularly crafty, but she had a blast making bath salts with her daughter anyway.
November 2018 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
VOTED BEST DOCTORS 2018
Best Doctors Recommended by Your Neighborhood Moms Congratulations to the Winners Mendocino County Dr. Anne Martin-Ko, Ukiah Dr. Paul McDonald, Ukiah Cindy Mockle, Nurse Practitioner, Ukiah Dr. Faith Simon, Mendocino
Lake County Dr. Luis Diaz, Clearlake Mike Meitz, PA, Lakeport Dr. Marlene Quilala, Lakeport Dr. Peter Stanley, Lakeport
Keeping Mendo Lake Families Healthy!
November Calendar of Events
Echoes of the Past
W
ant to teach kids about American history without ever cracking a book? Go to Windows to the Civil War, an annual reenactment that aims to bring the 1860s to life. Watch skirmishes, talk to soldiers, check out weapons, and sample food of the time. The event will be held on November 3, 9 a.m.–9 p.m., and November 4, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., at the Middletown Mansion in Middletown. Tickets are $8–$15 (ages under 6 get in free) and are available at cgibsonmuseum.com. ¶
Thursday 1 FREE Teen Poetry Club. Write &
share poems. Thursdays. 5–6 p.m. Ukiah Library. 105 N. Main St., Ukiah. 234-2862. co.mendocino.ca.us/library. FREE Holiday Special Retro Chic Dance Exercise classes. Pop, classics, rock & roll, Broadway, Latin & more. 4 free classes. Tuesdays & Thursdays. 9–10 a.m. Mendocino Ballet Studio. 205 S. State St., Ukiah.
Friday 2 FREE Family Fun. Open gym
for basketball, tumbling & soccer. Sundays recreation center also open for Ping-Pong, board games, etc. Fridays: 8–11 p.m. Sundays: noon–4 p.m. Alex Rorabaugh Recreation Center. 1640 S. State St., Ukiah. 463-6275. visitukiah.com. Mushroom Exploration. Led
by local mycologist Adrienne Long. Introductory talk followed by foraging. $45. Ages 2–16: $20. Nov. 2–4: noon–3 p.m. Arrive 15 minutes early. Reservations & prepayment required. Stanford Inn. 10051 S. Big River Rd., Mendocino. 937-5615. visitmendocino.com. 22 MendoLakeFamilyLife
Feast Mendocino. Mendocino
County celebrates mushrooms with music, art, food, beer & wine. Events all over the county. Runs thru Nov. 11. See the full brochure for times & locations: see visitmendocino. com & search on “Feast Mendocino Brochure.”
Saturday 3 FREE Konocti Unified 2nd Annual Parent Summit. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Free
for Konocti Unified parents. Free lunch. Spanish translation provided. Acrobat & BMX assemblies for kids. During breakout sessions, childcare provided for ages 2–10. Register at konoctiusd.org & get 2 free movie tickets. Konocti Education Center. Cornelison Event Center. 15850 Dam Rd., Ext. A, Clearlake. GRATIS Segundo Taller Anual de Padres. Gratis para los estudiantes del
distrito escolar de Konocti. Almuerzo gratis. Habrá traducción. Los niños disfrutarán de las asambleas de las acrobacias y las bicicletas BMX, y habra cuidado de niños para las edades 2 a 10 años durante las sesiones del taller. Si se regístra en el red konoctiusd.org y recibara dos boletos de película gratuita.
Konocti Education Center. Cornelison Event Center. 15850 Dam Rd., Ext. A, Clearlake. Photo Shoot Fundraiser. Family Christmas Card photos. $50/session. Receive a disc with 5 or more photos. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Potter Valley Youth & Community Center. 10270 Main St., Potter Valley. Reserve a time: 743-1789. Once Upon a Whaat?: Fractured Faerytale Storytime. Featuring
favorite timeless tales...with a twist! Costumes are encouraged. 11 a.m.–noon. Ukiah Library. 105 N. Main St., Ukiah. facebook.com/ events/252697842094777. Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser.
Auction & raffle: Twin Pines Casino package, security system, XBox, prizes & gift certificates. $20. 5:30–8 p.m. Clearlake Youth Center. 4750 Golf Ave., Clearlake. 994-5437. lcyskids.org. Mendocino County Homebrew Festival. $30–$45. Prices go up at the
door. Benefits the Good Farm Fund. 2–6 p.m. Ukiah Valley Conference Center. 200 S. School St., Ukiah. mendohomebrewfest.com. Windows to the Civil War.
Reenactments of military life &
November 2018 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
activities during the Civil War. $8–$15. Under age 6: free. Nov. 3: 9 a.m.–9 p.m. Nov. 4: 9 a.m.– 3 p.m. Gibson Museum. 21267 Calistoga Rd., Middletown. cgibsonmuseum.com. FREE Amy’s Cookie Craft Class.
Craft projects for packaging cookies, instructions on decorating store-bought cookies & baking & storage hints. All ages. Children must be accompanied by adult. 2–4:30 p.m. Lakeport Library. 1425 N. High St., Lakeport. facebook.com/ lakecountylibrary.
Dec. 1. MacKerricher State Park. 24100 MacKerricher Park Rd., Fort Bragg. (Meet at Lake Cleone parking lot.) 964-8898. parks.ca.gov.
Sundays. 1–3 p.m. Ukiah Library. 105 N. Main St., Ukiah. 463-4490. co.mendocino.ca.us/library.
FREE Fiber Arts Drop-In. Basic instruction in knitting, crocheting & weaving. All abilities & ages welcome.
Brunch. Hosted by Mendocino Farm Bureau. $50. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Barra Winery. 7051 N. State St., Redwood Valley. 462-6664. mendofb.org.
Harvest Farm-to-Table Fundraiser
All Souls Exhibition Opening Reception. 6–8 p.m. Middletown Art Center. 21456 Hwy. 175 & junction of Hwy. 29, Middletown. middletownartcenter.org. 809-8118. Wine, Kibble & Bids Harvest Party.
Tri-tip dinner & quarter auction. $22–$25. Ages 6 & under: free. Dinner served: 4:30–6:30 p.m. Auction after dinner. Benefits the Humane Society of Inland Mendocino County. Redwood Empire Fairgrounds. 1055 N. State St., Ukiah. Christmas in July Re-try. BBQ
benefits the Shop with a Cop Program. $40. 6–9:30 p.m. Boatique Winery. 8255 Red Hill Rd., Kelseyville. 279-2675. events.ticketprinting.com. Search on “Christmas in July.” Fall Fashion Show. Featuring local
boutiques, wine, beer & food. Benefit for MendoLake Complex Fire Relief. 1–3 p.m. School Street. Downtown Ukiah.
The resource fair will feature college departments and local agencies that support veterans and their families. Participants will include EDD, VA Outpatient Clinic, Mendocino County Veterans Services, North Bay Veteran Resource Center, Wreaths Across America, MC Disability Resource Center, MC Native American Student Resource Center, and more!
Sunday 4 Seal Walks. The path of the walk is
flat & paved out from the parking area to the seal rookery, about 1 mile. Saturdays & Sundays. 11 a.m. Thru www.mendolakefamilylife.com
Ukiah Campus • 1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah, CA 95482 • www.mendocino.edu November 2018
MendoLakeFamilyLife 23
Monday 5
Zoppé Italian Circus. $25–$45. Ages
Thursday 8
Nurturing Families Parenting
FREE Veterans Resource Fair.
Drop-In Support Group. Families are invited to join anytime. Topics & discussion vary by week. Mondays. 9–11 a.m. Lake County Office of Education. 1152 S. Main St., Lakeport. 263-8918, ext. 295. lakecoe.org.
Local agencies & Mendocino College representatives will be available to provide information for veterans & their families. Free lunch, sweet treats & coffee. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Mendocino College. Loewry Student Center. 1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah.
Wednesday 7
FREE Family Movie Night. Featuring
Make Faery Herb Gardens.
The Secret Life of Pets. 6 p.m. Yokayo Elementary. 790 S. Dora St., Ukiah. facebook.com/events/169701483966874.
Celebrate the NEA Big Read book Pretty Monsters & make a Faery Herb Garden to take home. Limited to 20 participants, advance sign-up required. Ages 6 & up. 1 garden per family. 2–4:30 p.m. Ukiah Library. 105 N. Main St., Ukiah. 463-4490. facebook. com/ukiahlibrary.
Bunco, Chili & Pies. Dinner, pie & prizes. Childcare will be provided. Fall crafts, snacks & movie for kids. Adults: $10. Children: $5. Benefits local MOPs group (Moms of Preschoolers). RSVP or purchase tickets in advance. 6–9 p.m. Redwood Valley Community Church. 951 E. School
Friday 9
FREE Native American Heritage Celebration. Traditional dance & song, Indian tacos, cultural activities, local tribal history & more. All tribes & members of the community are invited. Pomo Plaza Dedication Ceremony: 11:30 a.m. Celebration: 3–6 p.m. Mendocino College. 1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah. mendocino.edu.
3 & under: free. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Mendocino Coast Humane Society. Nov. 9: 7 p.m. Nov. 10: 1 p.m., 4 p.m. & 7 p.m. Nov. 11: 1 p.m. & 4 p.m. Nov. 12: 1 p.m. Todd’s Point. 250 West Ocean View Dr., Fort Bragg. zoppe.net.
Zoppé Circus is coming to Fort Bragg...
Mendocino College
Redeem this ad for $5 off admission! MARK YOUR CALENDAR
11AM to 6PM
FREE EVENT • OPEN TO ALL LOWERY STUDENT CENTER - UKIAH CAMPUS BRING YOUR RESUME!
November 9 - 12 at Todd’s Point Friday: 7pm Saturday: 1pm, 4pm, 7pm Sunday: 1pm, 4pm Monday: 1pm
Ticket Locations: Harvest Market The Ark Thrift Store MCHS Adoption Center Zoppe.net/FortBragg
HUNDREDS OF QUALITY JOB OPENINGS TO FILL! Career Education Information Will Be Available
ALL NEW
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A portion of proceeds will benefit MCHS. 1000 H en sley C reek R d ., U kiah C A 95482 • 707.468.3012
24 MendoLakeFamilyLife
November 2018 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
Way, Redwood Valley. facebook.com/ events/336652483757108. Text 621-2168.
Saturday 10 FREE Boys with Braids. A gathering to share in Native teachings about the sacredness of long hair & to foster a sense of pride for Native males. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Mendocino College. 1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah. facebook. com/events/414341099096608. FREE Bike Angels United Bike Giveaway. For recent fire survivors. The organization is looking for helmets. Bring new helmets to the event or buy a helmet on walmart.com & have it shipped, to the attention of Bike Angels United, to the Walmart in Clearlake (store #1979). Giveaway: noon–4 p.m. Moose Lodge. 15900 E. Hwy. 20, Clearlake Oaks.
Harvest Celebration & Wildfire Recovery Benefit. Sheepdog
trials, live auction, live music & Farm-to-Table lunch with scientists. $70. Under age 16: $15. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Hopland Research & Extension Center. 4070 University Rd., Hopland. 744-1424, ext. 105. hrec.ucanr.edu. FREE Lego Robots. Interactive &
educational. 10 a.m.–noon. Second Saturday of every month. Redbud Library. 14785 Burns Valley Rd., Clearlake. See facebook.com/ events/1835046689892846 for a schedule of similar classes at other Lake County libraries. Sing Out! An Autumn Evening of Music & Pie. Sing-along (sort of like
karaoke), live music & sweet & savory pies. Benefits the Cancer Resource
Centers of Mendocino. $10. No-host wine bar. 5:30–8:30 p.m. Willits Center for the Arts. 71 E. Commercial St., Willits. eventbrite.com. Certified Tourism Ambassador (CTA) Training. $25. Checks made out
to “County of Lake.” 8 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Running Creek Casino. 635 E. Hwy. 20, Upper Lake. Register: ctanetwork. com/schedule. Select “California,” then “Lake County.” Fill out CTA application. If you need help, call the Chamber: 263-5092. FREE Rainbow Ag Celebrates Purina® Feed Greatness® Days.
Representative on-site for discussions on Flock at 10 a.m., Livestock at 10:30 a.m. & Equine at 1 p.m. BBQ lunch at noon. Coupons & hats will be given away. Raffle at 2:30 p.m. 9 a.m.–5
Dickens Christmas
B
Market Saturday
November 24 Enjoy the sights & sounds of an old fashioned holiday merchants & vendors will offer Christmas Market Main Street marvelous holiday gifts & food. 11am-6pm Come in costume & enter
Tree Lighting 5:30pm
Photos with Santa 11am-3pm
the Dickens theme costume contest for fabulous prizes. Strolling minstrels.
Call Kristen for vendor info. 707-987-1278
Presented by The Lakeport Main Street Association
www.mendolakefamilylife.com
November 2018
MendoLakeFamilyLife 25
p.m. Rainbow Ag. 1975 Argonaut Rd., Lakeport. support.lakecochamber.com. Symphony of the Redwoods Fall Concert. Smetana, Rachmaninoff,
Gershwin & Dvorak. Adults: $22–$25. Under age 18: free. Nov. 10: 7:30 p.m. & Nov. 11: 2 p.m. Cotton Auditorium. 500 N. Harold St., Fort Bragg. symphonyoftheredwoods.org.
Sunday 11 Guitars Without Borders. Muriel
Anderson, Alex de Grassi & Andrew York perform original solo, duo
& trio compositions. $30–$35. Students: $10. 5 p.m. Mendocino College. 1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah. guitarswithoutborders. brownpapertickets.com. Sips, Eats & Sweets. $25–$30. Sips
wine tickets sold separately at event. $5. Proceeds benefit CASA of Mendocino & Lake Counties. 3–5:30 p.m. 21 & over only. Barra of Mendocino Winery. 7051 N. State St., Redwood Valley. 489-7231. eventbrite.com. Holiday Extravaganza. Multiple
local vendors will be selling products.
Breakfast will be served at 8:30 a.m. & lunch during the fair. Proceeds from both meals support Meals on Wheels program. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Lakeport Senior Activity Center. 527 Konocti Ave., Lakeport. lakeconews.com.
Thursday 15 Reflections…a dive into water, life & dance. Presented by Mendocino
College Repertory Dance Company. $10–$15. Nov. 15, 16 & 17: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 18: 2 p.m. Mendocino College Theatre. 1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah. 468-3079. Tickets online at artsmendocino.edu or available, with check or cash only, at the door. A Christmas Carol. Weekends
Sheepdog trials at HREC
thru Dec. 16. 7 p.m. & 2 p.m. shows. $10–$20. Ukiah Players Theatre. 1041 Low Gap Rd., Ukiah. 462-9226. ukiahplayerstheatre.org.
Friday 16 Third Friday Live. Clean Sweep plays R&B, blues, funk & jazz dance music. $15. 7 p.m. Soper Reese Theatre. 275 S. Main St., Lakeport. 263-0577. soperreesetheatre.com.
Saturday 17 Rock for Food. Live concert featuring
HREC Recovers from Flames
T
his past summer, the River Fire scorched 3,500 acres of the U.C. Hopland Research and Extension Center’s (HREC) land. When you attend its fundraiser, the Harvest Celebration, you’ll be helping the organization to recover. Watch sheepdog trials, dine on a farm-to-table lunch with scientists, listen to live music, and snag yourself a treasure at a live auction. The event is set for November 10, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., at the center, in Hopland. Admission is $70 for adults and $15 for children under 16. See hrec.ucanr.edu to register, which is required by November 5. ¶
26 MendoLakeFamilyLife
Johnny Young Band, Double Standyrd & special guests. $10. Proceeds go to the Ukiah Food Bank. 8 p.m. Club Calpella. 6175 N. State St., Ukiah. 485-8630. clubcalpella.com. 40th Anniversary of the Courthouse Museum. Learn about
the Friends of the Lake County Museum & get a sneak peek of the Victorian Christmas Parlor. 4–7 p.m. Courthouse Museum. 255 N. Main St., Lakeport. facebook.com/ events/348724289197528.
November 2018 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
Autumn’s Attitude of Gratitude.
Appetizer competition, live auction & dance band Funkacillin. Local wine & beer. Supports the ministries & building renovation fund. $22. Ages 12 & under: $10. 5–8 p.m. Childcare available. Ukiah United Methodist Church. 205 N. Bush St., Ukiah.
Sunday 18 An Afternoon at the Opera. The
Lake County Symphony will perform operatic overtures & arias, featuring dramatic mezzo soprano Heather McFadden & the Youth Orchestra. $25–$30. 2 p.m. (Dress rehearsal: 11 a.m. $5. Ages 18 & under: free.) Soper Reese Community Theatre. 275 S. Main St., Lakeport. 263-0577. soperreesetheatre.com.
Monday 19 Clearlake Youth Center Thanksgiving Break. Snacks, movies,
games, boxing classes & more. Thru Wed. Noon–6 p.m. Clearlake Youth Center. 4750 Golf Ave., Clearlake. 994-5437. lcyskids.org.
Thursday 22 Thanksgiving at the Blue Wing.
3-course dinner. Seatings spread out over 2-hour intervals. 1–5 p.m. Blue Wing Restaurant. 9520 Main St., Upper Lake. Call for reservations: 275-2233. tallmanhotel.com.
Friday 23 Mendocino Transit Authority
route map in next month’s Family Life magazine. mendocinotransit.org. Festival of Lights. Thru Dec. 16. Garden plants lit up with holiday lights. Doors open at 5 p.m. Last entry at 7 p.m. $10. Ages 16 & under: free. Mendocino Botanical Gardens. 18220 N. Hwy. 1, Fort Bragg. gardenbythesea.org.
Saturday 24 FREE Dickens’ Faire & Christmas Market. Arts & food booths. Snowman Contest & Pet Parade. Photos with Santa. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Caroling & tree lighting: 5:30 p.m. Downtown Lakeport. lakeportmainstreet.com.
Holiday Trolley. Thru Dec. 24. Get a
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November 2018
MendoLakeFamilyLife 27
Candied Walnut Sale. 11 a.m.– 4 p.m. Stop by the Lake County Museum during the Dickens’ Fair to purchase a cone of locally grown, warm candied walnuts, to benefit the museum. Full Beaver Moon Night Lighthouse
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Tour. Beverages & snacks. $30. Reservations must be made by phone no later than 3:30 p.m. 3 days before event. Gates open: 6:30 p.m. Tour: 7 p.m. Point Arena Lighthouse. 45500 Lighthouse Rd., Point Arena. 882-2809. pointarenalighthouse.com.
Wednesday 28 Job Fair. Employers & agencies
offering hundreds of quality jobs. Bring your résumé. Hosted by Mendocino College. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Mendocino College. Lowery Student Center. 1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah. 468-3012. mendocino.edu.
Thursday 29 Dine Out for Hospice Fundraiser.
Pianist David Neft will perform. 10 percent of the restaurant’s gross food receipts for that evening will go to Hospice of Lake County. 5–9 p.m. Blue Wing Restaurant. 9520 Main St., Upper Lake. 275-2233. tallmanhotel.com.
Friday 30 Holiday Open House & Craft Faire.
Arts & craft sales & tours of the Sun House. Nov. 30: 5–8 p.m. Dec. 1: 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Grace Hudson Museum. 431 S. Main St., Ukiah. 467-2836. gracehudsonmuseum.org.
28 MendoLakeFamilyLife
November 2018 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
Marketplace Preschools
Schools
Give Your Give Child a Head Start!
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!
Pomo Pride
Head Start Child Development Program
T
he Pomo people inhabited Mendocino and Lake Counties thousands of years before the United States was born. With its Native American Heritage Celebration on November 7, Mendocino College is honoring this history. The day will begin with the commemoration of the new Pomo Plaza monument dedication at 11:30 a.m. followed by a 1 p.m. screening of More than a Word, a documentary about Native American stereotypes. From 3–6 p.m. there will be traditional dance and song, an opportunity to learn about native languages and culture, and, for rumbling tummies, Indian tacos. The event is free and will take place on the college’s Ukiah campus. On November 10, 9 a.m.–4 p.m., the campus will host a Boys in Braids day, for Native boys and others who want to learn about the sacred tradition of wearing long hair. For more information see facebook.com/MendocinoCollege. ¶
www.ncoinc.org Head Start
Applications online: www.ncoinc.org • (707) 462-2582
• Coastnorth end of Fairgrounds Fort Bragg - Lincoln St. PO Box 966 Ukiah 95482
treeoflifeschool@pacific.net www.treeoflifeschool.net
Accelerated Achievement Academy
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Help Hospice
Lakeport - Howard Ave. Clearlake - Pearl Ave. ClearlakeLocated - Meadowbrookon Dr.
707-462-0913
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(707)Development 462-2582 Program License #230111843 Child
Get Mom’s Attention!
N
o one likes to think about death. But hospice workers face it head on every day, helping to ease the suffering of those at the end of their lives. Every year the Blue Wing Restaurant and Saloon in Upper Lake raises money to sustain the work of local hospice providers. This year, on November 29, 5–9 p.m., pianist David Neft will entertain diners and 10 percent of the restaurant’s gross food receipts will go to Hospice of Lake County. Find out more at tallmanhotel.com/event/dine-out-forhospice-with-david-neft. ¶
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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
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The Case of the Missing Library Book 5 Steps for Saving Your Sanity By Cheryl Maguire
I
used to consider myself an organized person who rarely lost anything, definitely never a library book. Now that I’m a mother of three kids who love books, I can no longer attest to this fact. In an attempt to reclaim some sanity, I came up with the following five-step plan to use next time a book goes missing. You, of course, could apply these principles for any lost item, but I know it’s the library book you are searching for. The library has deadlines. The library wants money. And most importantly if you don’t return the book, they will know the truth: You were unable to keep track of a 10 x 12 picture book. Step 1. Check the Library Shelf This may seem like wishful thinking, but on more than one occasion I returned the library book, and it was never checked in. So before you ransack your house, berating yourself with, “I could have sworn I returned that book. I must be losing my mind,” make sure it isn’t at the library.
Step 2. Last Known Location The true crime genre has inspired the next few steps. I always start with this investigative question: “Where did you last see the library 30 MendoLakeFamilyLife
book?” Granted, the kids usually never remember, which requires you to answer the question, but it’s important to figure out since it is almost always there, somewhere, hiding. Step 3. Use a Flashlight Flashlights have helped me find gift cards, earrings, DS games (obviously designed by a childless person who
You start to panic a little about having to admit to the librarian “the truth,” and then you realize— maybe you haven’t searched everywhere. never searched for a pin-size one), and library books. Even in a well lit room, the flashlight reflects off the item in such a way as to help you see it. And, of course, it helps you to look into the dark places of that notorious book swallower—the couch. Step 4. Look Again Do you remember the last time you saw an optical illusion? You tried to
see the face, but couldn’t, even though it was right there in front of you. The same rule applies here: You didn’t see the book in one location, so look again. Trust me it is there (most of the time unless you skipped step 1 and the book is on the library shelf). Step 5. Least Likely Place You start to panic a little about having to admit to the librarian “the truth,” and then you realize—maybe you haven’t searched everywhere. Now it is time to check the least likely place. I am referring to under the mattress, inside another book, or at the bottom of the toy box (all places I have found lost library books). Hopefully these steps will help you feel less frustrated, more in control, and find that pesky library book so the truth can remain where it belongs, concealed. Cheryl Maguire’s writing has been published in Parents Magazine, Upworthy, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Count Your Blessings, and Twins Magazine. You can find her on Twitter @ CherylMaguire05.
November 2018 www.mendolakefamilylife.com
Hors d’oeuvre Taste-Off Sweets Delectables Taste-Off Silent Auction
A strolling event featuring sweet & savory samplings of favorite foods with a fun silent auction in support of the CASA Program and the youth they serve.
$25 advance/$30 door
Tickets
Sips, Eats, & Sweets:
$15 in advance/$20 Mendocino Book Co. in Ukiahat the door
Sips wine tickets sold separately at event only
$5/each or 5/$20 Call CASA at 489-7231
Mendocino Book Co. in Ukiah https://casasipseatssweets2018.eventbrite.com CASA Mendocino & Lake Counties by calling Sips wineoftickets sold separately at event $5/each
MUST BE707-463-6503 21 OR OLDER TO ATTEND.
"CASA of Mendocino & Lake Counties MUST BE 21 OR OLDER TO ATTEND. trains & supports community volunteers to connect & advocate for foster youth, former foster youth, delinquent & at-risk youth."
90 Years of Trust, Family & Community From a little hospital on the hill to a state of the art, nationally-recognized medical center We’ve been together for almost a century. Thanks to your support, we have come a long way and we have elevated the care for so many generations in Mendocino County. Adventist Health Howard Memorial has become a modern healing environment where the best of technology and patient-centered design has come together to provide the very best patient experience for our friends and neighbors. A place where a culture of care has been fostered that focuses on people, and comfort and compassion is at the heart of your healing experience. Our commitment and passion to improve the health of our community is stronger than ever before. With your continued support, together, we can keep building a better, healthier community for generations to come.
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