Mendo Lake Family Life October 2014 by familylifemag

mendo lake October 2014

Raise a Writer 8 ways to promote literacy

Great Ghoulish Games Creative party ideas

Halloween Hurrah Top spots for fun

Be a Hero Why parents

are superstars

Welcome to The Hero Project, Lake County! Get FREE Tips, Inspiration, Monthly Prizes & Contests Go behind the scenes with families just like yours and discover proven parenting methods designed to help you become the best parent you can be.

lakecountyheroproject.com @lakecountyheroproject

...and tag your posts #lakecountyheroproject so we can love you back!

Lake County Office of Education • St. Helena Hospital – Clearlake • Sutter Lakeside Hospital Health Leadership Network • First 5 Lake County • Redbud Health Care District

SPONSORED BY

Mendocino Community Health Clinic

LAKE COUNTY FIRE CHIEF’S ASSOCIATION

October 2014

MendoLakeFamilyLife 9

Heroes with Heart

Bruno, Nicki, Sebastian, and Sophie Sabatier

A Fun Initiative Turns Parents into Superstars

By Denise Rockenstein

ave you ever wanted to be a superhero? Well, here is your chance. The Hero

Project is hitting Lake County stronger than a locomotive, with more than 570 participants registered for its first public eventâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Be a Hero: Read.

10 MendoLakeFamilyLife

Luz and Josue Sonato

Noah, Shannon, and Dominic Williams

The project is an exciting annual initiative that offers ideas and images intended to motivate families to make positive changes. Themes include: Eat Together, Unplug, Play, Advocate, Breathe, Protect, and Be Resilient.

Participants completing monthly challenges will be rewarded and entered into drawings for monetary prizes. Those completing all eight challenges will be entered into a drawing for $1,000.

The initiative will use people-to-people connections, as well as technology, to help parents. Participants will be able to get help from parenting coaches. And The Hero Project application (available through iTunes and Google Play stores) will use cell phones to deliver positive ideas about raising kids. The project will also employ Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter to feed moms and dads helpful tips and advice.

October 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Jose, Karina, Liliana, and Josue Sonato

Daniel Cummins

Daniel Cummins, Zion Russell, Rylie Hathaway, and Ashley Hathaway

Karina, Sarahi, Liliana and Josue Sonato

Todd and Grace Williams

Bruno Sabatier, event chair for the Clear Lake Super Hero Day, says public reception has been phenomenal, with more “heroes” signing on for the first challenge than expected. He says the enthusiasm clearly indicates parents’ desire to be more engaged with their children.

“The kids are excited by the theme, and the idea of being a superhero and their parents being superheroes. It’s the silliness of it; they like it. Sometimes these types of educational programs tend to be too serious. This one isn’t. It’s fun,” Sabatier says.

“No matter how committed I am to being a great mom, I’m going to have bad days,” Mascari says. “The Hero Project exists to…remind you of the ways you can be a great parent.” “We know that if you want to make positive changes in any area of your life, it takes focus,” Mascari continues. “We want to help parents keep their child as their focus. There is always something we can improve and something new to learn, no matter how long you’ve been a parent. That’s what makes The Hero Project so awesome!” The Hero Project continues through May 2015. In addition to the Lake County Office of Education, local sponsors include Sutter Hospital, St. Helena Hospital, Redbud Health Care District, First 5 Lake, and Health Leadership Network. To find out more and sign up, see lakecountyheroproject.com. ¶

Shelly Mascari, of the Lake County Office of Education, one of the sponsors of the initiative, says she is thrilled with the impact The Hero Project has already had on the community. www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Photos by Bob Rider Photography

Jacob Fuller

October 2014

Denise Rockenstein lives in Clearlake and has been a Lake County journalist for 13 years. She is fluent in community needs and is dedicated to providing trustworthy information to local residents. MendoLakeFamilyLife 11

Raising a Writer

Let them devour books. You can’t introduce children to books too early. Infants and toddlers love to turn pages, and explore the different textures of touch-and-feel board books. They associate the sound of a story with your voice, creating a personal invitation to the world of words. As they get older, take them to the library, and let them spend time poking around in the children’s section. Find out their interests, and ask the children’s librarian to recommend books on that topic. Or go to the International Reading Association’s website, www.reading. org, for ideas. Let them borrow as many books as they want.

Explore the narrative of the day. Ask your children open-ended questions about their experiences. They’ll learn that details better communicate what they feel and see, and also are more apt to engage their listener.

Need a little inspiration? Here are some kid-queries that can’t be answered with a Yes or No.

Eight Ways to Cultivate Imagination and a Love of Literacy

• What was the best thing that happened today?

By Ruth Hanley

efore you became a parent and learned to squeeze in a moment’s shut-eye at every opportunity, you spent countless nights

staying up until the wee hours, seduced by

the latest from Joyce Carol Oates or Cormac McCarthy. You want to instill the same enthusiasm for words and writing in your kids. But how? Here are some ideas.

12 MendoLakeFamilyLife

• What was the worst thing? • What was the funniest thing? • What was the strongest thing you did? The gentlest? The bravest? Don’t be afraid to ask more questions. If you ask your daughter what she had for snack, and she says, “I had crackers,” ask, “What kind of crackers? What did they taste like?”

Turn pictures into stories. Even if your children can only make a few marks on a page,

October 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Sonoma County Airport ask them about what they draw. Be open to some unconventional answers. Perhaps those scrawls and circles aren’t a picture at all, but a list. Write down your children’s descriptions on the backs of pictures so that you can talk about them together later. You can also collect several pictures into “books,” and let your children tell a story about them. Ask them to

Become a model storyteller. Tell or sing stories to your children before bed or naptime. You can retell familiar stories and fairy tales, or sing songs. Show your kids that there are many ways to tell a story. For instance, some ditties have been turned into stories, and vice versa. “Froggie Went A-Courtin’” is an example of an old tale that started as a song and then evolved into several modern children’s books.

Catch them creating. When you hear your kids verbally making up a story or song, write it down to show them what it looks like on paper. Read it back to them, and tell them what you liked

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Make media handy. Keep some print media around so that they have the opportunity to spontaneously pick up a book or magazine on their own. Remember the tactile experience of a book’s pages is part of fostering the love of reading. In addition, encourage them to write longhand. Studies show that the act of writing, as opposed to typing, is an important tool for cognitive development.

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tell you what is happening, and write down what they say at the bottom of the page. Invite them to create a title, and let them sign their names in their own way. They can write their names or use thumbprints for signatures. (You can write out their names below the prints.)

Walk (or write) the talk. Children will want to read and write when they see their parents reading, writing in journals, and penning letters, e-mails, lists—even their own stories. Let them know that you are not just browsing on your computer or device, but creating something.

©P N

Give children permission to express themselves in their own authentic voices.

most about it. Be specific in your praise: “I liked the way you used action words in your song. I could imagine myself jumping when you used the word jump!”

www.sonomacountyairport.org 707.565.7240 Follow STS on

Grant the right to write. Give children permission to express themselves in their own authentic voices. If, from an early age, they feel free to write about whatever their hearts desire, they will be more apt to listen when the muse whispers. Plant these eight seeds of literacy, and watch your children grow in creative and articulate ways. The results may even inspire your own inner scribe. Write on! ¶ Ruth Hanley is a mom of two children and has volunteered in elementary school writing classes for years. She loves listening to the unique way that the muse speaks to each child.

October 2014

Never Underestimate the Power of the Purse

Moms typically control 80% or more of their household budgets They’re looking right here, to find you. Call now, don’t miss another month.

IN PRINT • ONLINE • EVENTS • CONTESTS

586-9562 • SonomaFamilyLife.com MendoLakeFamilyLife 13

More Magic & Fewer Meltdowns Tips for Trick-or-Treating Parents By Christina Katz

listers abound, sugar levels soar, dehydration ensues, and the next thing you know, what started as a fun, festive night feels more like a ghoulish nightmare.

The uncomfortable truth is that Halloween costumes are often flimsy and lack the insulation needed to stave off a brisk autumn chill. Kids’ goodie bags can quickly become overstuffed, creating a cascade of candy—and tears—as the evening wears on. Before you turn into a witch or a warlock, parents, remember, the key to enjoying All Hallow’s Eve is as simple as rallying the troops in advance, going over your expectations, and getting prepared for anything that might go amiss. Here are some tips from a mom who has literally been around the block a few times. Split into age groups. Have one parent take one age group and the other parent take another age group. Tweens like to run in packs and they move fast, so wear sneakers 14 MendoLakeFamilyLife

and layers you can lose if you plan on keeping up with them. Toddlers and preschoolers may dawdle or tire quickly, so choose the more patient parent to accompany them. Or consider taking two shifts, one earlier in the evening for younger kids and another later shift for older kids, trading off who stays home to hand out candy. Wear a backpack. Maybe it seems extreme to gear up as though you are going for an overnight hike just to walk a few blocks around the neighborhood. But the weather is fickle this time of year, and once you grab everything you need for a pleasant evening, you will be amazed by how much stuff you have to tote. And don’t be surprised if your kids shed pieces of their

costumes as the excitement heats up. A shoulder bag may feel fine for the first 15 minutes of the night, but after two hours, you will likely wish you had brought the backpack. Eat a high-protein dinner. ‘Tis the season for overindulging in sugar, which means it’s more important than any other time of year to emphasize three healthy, high-protein meals a day. Be sure to give your kids limits on how much sugar they may consume between meals. Take their candy away and mete it out yourself if they don’t comply with your limits or can’t seem to wean themselves off the sugar roller coaster. Practice their refrains. Commit to making the night pleasant for all. Their first couple of years out, “Trick-or-treat!” and “Thank you!” are the only things young children need to be able to say. But encourage bigger kids to be more cordial, especially to the older folks in the ‘hood, who will likely opt out altogether if they are offended by enough poorly behaved kids. How about making a chorus of “Happy Halloween!” or “Have a great night!” mandatory before the kids run off to the next house?

October 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Be prepared. Plastic and paper bags for treats are out. They are the most likely to rip or tear. Pillowcases are better, but these, too, may split open when stuffed. So whatever you do, don’t let the kids use your good set. Whatever they carry, stuff a few extra bags in your backpack in case you need replacements. Also carry Band-Aids for blisters and water for hydration. And, of course, don’t forget the camera. Aim for the middle. If you are driving to another neighborhood

to walk with a friend, consider parking your vehicle in the middle of the neighborhood instead of on the edge, or back at the friend’s house. This way, if you need to

Toddlers and preschoolers may dawdle or tire quickly, so choose the more patient parent to accompany them. make an early exit for any reason, you’ll be that much closer to your escape car. When taking both younger and older children, consider bringing along a stroller or wagon. Even if the kids insist they don’t

need one, they might want one later, after exhaustion sets in. Use social sense. No one likes to feel left out, so encourage your kids to invite new or shy youngsters who might not already be part of a group to join you. Or, if you know that you will all have a better time if it’s just you and your kids, don’t feel bad about breaking off from a group. Halloween is a great opportunity to teach kids about doing what works best for your family rather than always going along with the crowd. On the other hand, if there is a crowd you need to keep up with, now you will be ready. ¶ Christina Katz’ latest book is The Art of Making Time for Yourself: A Collection of Advice for Moms.

An Enchanted Evening for Families

Mendocino Ballet MendocinoBallet Ballet Mendocino DANCE THIS FALL! DANCETHIS THISFALL! FALL! DANCE DANCE THIS FALL! *Classical Ballet* *Classical Ballet* *Classical Ballet* *Classical Ballet* * Tap * Tap * Jazz * Tap * Jazz * Tap * Jazz * *** *Contemporary* *Contemporary* *Contemporary* *Contemporary* *Creative Dance* *Creative Dance* *Creative Dance* *Creative Dance* Classes for all Classes for Classes for alllevels levels Classes for allall levels levels and and ages 3 to Adult ages 3 to adult and ages 3 to Adult and ages 3 to Adult Nutcracker Classes Trudy McCreanor, Nutcracker Classes Nutcracker Classes Artistic Director for ages 6-15 for ages 6-15 for ages 6-15

The Enchanted Pumpkin Path

“Where Dreams to Dance Come True!” Mendocino Ballet Mendocino Ballet *205 205 S.State State Mendocino Ballet * *205 S.S.State St.St.St.

Friday October 31 • 5 to 8pm Enjoy a Magical Walk with Stories, food, activities & music

Look for Nutcracker Tea and performances coming in December

463-2290 more information and class schedule 463-2290 for more information and class schedule 463-2290 forfor more information and class schedule Trudy McCreanor, Artistic Director Trudy McCreanor, Artistic Director Trudy McCreanor, Artistic Director 463-2290 • 205 S. State St. www.mendocinoballet.org

“Where Dreams Dance Come True!” “Where Dreams Dance Come True!” “Where Dreams tototo Dance Come True!”

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Visit www.mendocinowaldorf.org 6280 Third Street • Calpella • 707-485-8719

October 2014

MendoLakeFamilyLife 15

two triangular-shaped ears. Cut two smaller triangles from pink paper for the insides of the ears; glue to black triangles. Glue ears to the top inside edge of the can, and the tail to the back side of the can. Fill with treats.

Creepy Crafts & Ghoulish Games Easy Ways to Conjure Up Fall Fun By Denise Morrison Yearian

hether you’re planning a bountiful harvest celebration or a spooky Halloween party, these craft, game, and food ideas will make for a good time. CRAFTY CREATIONS

When working with kids in a group setting, plan a main project with a short, second activity—coloring 16 MendoLakeFamilyLife

pages or stringing popcorn—for early finishers. Whatever crafts you choose, pick ones that are easy to clean up so that you can move on to the next activity. Black Cat Candy Jar. Place black electrical tape over the sharp edges of a tin can. Cover the can with black construction paper, and glue in place. Glue two wiggly eyes to the can, then use a thin paintbrush and white paint to draw a mouth, nose, and whiskers. Draw and cut out a black tail and

Jack-o-Lantern Pots. Buy various-sized terracotta pots and turn them upside down so the drainage hole is facing up. On yellow construction paper, draw and cut out two eyes, a nose, and a toothy grin—the wackier the better. Apply Mod Podge with a paintbrush under and over the facial features, then attach them to the pot. Place a short, wide stick in the hole to resemble a pumpkin stem. Pumpkin Noisemakers. Paint a 12” x 1/2” dowel rod black; let dry. Trace and cut out two leaves using green craft foam, and then cut a small slit in the center of each leaf. Draw a face onto the bottom side of an orange paper plate with a black permanent marker. Line up the face plate with a second orange plate, rims together and bottoms facing out. Use a hole punch to create holes 1-inch apart around the perimeter of both plates. Place dried beans and small jingle bells between the two plates. Also put the dowel between the plates, moving the short end of the stick above the facial features to represent the pumpkin stem and the long end below for the handle. Sew plates together by lacing yarn through the holes. Push leaf slits through the short end of the dowel rods and secure with a glue gun. FEARSOME FROLICKING Games are a staple at kids’ gatherings. Choose ones every

October 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

child can participate in and where no one is eliminated. With a little forethought and creativity, any game can be adapted to fit the fall theme. Broom Ball. Purchase half-sized brooms for each party guest and two different colors of seasonal garland. To specify teams, decorate half of the brooms with one color of garland and the remaining half with the other

Get Your SCARE On!

REAL Costumes for the True Monster in you

707-463-2624 • 178 E. GOBBI ST. • UKIAH

Pick crafts that are easy to clean up so that you can move on to the next activity.

Come Explore Traditional & Not-So Traditional Careers

Girls in Careers Workshop

garland. Establish goals at opposite ends of the yard, and divide the children into teams. Place a kickball in the center of the yard then give each child a broom to sweep the ball to his or her team’s goal. The first team to score five goals wins. Scarecrow Relay. Separate children into two teams. Choose one child from each team to be the scarecrow. Place scarecrows at one end of the room, along with hay and oversized scarecrow-type clothing items. Teammates line up at the other end of the room. To play, teammates take turns running to the scarecrow, dressing him with one clothing item, and then tagging the next player who does the same. When the scarecrow is completely dressed, each teammate returns a second time to stuff straw in his clothing. The first team to finish making their scarecrow wins. ¶ Denise Morrison Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children.

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Sat. Nov. 15, 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER Quanisha Smith

Lower Lake High • Girls in grades 7-12

What’s preventing you from living your desired life?

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 low income eligible families. • Free Child Care Referrals.

1-800-606-5550 ext. 211 October 2014

Rural Communities Child Care

MendoLakeFamilyLife 17

Cooking with Kids

By John Corippo

Treats Muffins for Sweet Packed with Munchkins Pumpkin Power

t’s that time of year when jack-o-lanterns set windows aglow. But pumpkin is more than just a holiday decoration; it’s a power food. The vegetable gets its distinctive orange hue from carotenoids, which, when they aren’t fighting cancer or cardiovascular disease, are turning into vitamin A—an essential ingredient for good vision and immunity. In addition, the humble squash is packed with fiber, which helps you feel full, making weight loss easier. And pumpkin’s potassium also makes it a perfect post-workout snack.

So now that you know about pumpkin’s many attributes, how do you get your kids to eat it? In a word: muffins. I’ve got just the recipe—straight from my grandmother’s kitchen. I’ve modified it for today’s healthy lifestyles, cutting out a half-cup of sugar and replacing the oil with applesauce. But they still taste just like my grandma’s. Don’t expect a batch to last long. They disappear faster than a ghost who’s gotten wind of Bill Murray.

Pumpkin Chocolate-Chip Applesauce Muffins Ingredients • 4 eggs • 1 1/2 cups sugar • 1 can (15 oz.) pumpkin • 1/2 cup canola oil • 1 cup applesauce • 3 cups all-purpose flour • 2 teaspoons baking soda • 1 teaspoon baking powder • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1 teaspoon salt • 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Directions Preheat oven to 400°F. In large bowl, beat eggs, sugar, Behold the pumpkin, oil, and most delicious applesauce until smooth. of after-school Combine flour, baking soda, snacks. baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add to pumpkin mixture and mix well. Fold in chocolate chips. Fill greased or paper-lined muffin tins 3/4 full. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool in pan 10 minutes before removing to wire rack. Yield: 3 dozen.

John Corippo lives in Ukiah, where he is a husband and father to two sons as well as a fire captain, paramedic, hazmat specialist, journalist, college instructor, avid sports fan, and stand-up paddleboard representative. 18 MendoLakeFamilyLife

October 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

How to Talk to a Teacher

Be firm, but don’t threaten. You have a right to assert your point of view, but do so with respect and courtesy. Most teachers care about your child’s success. Politely ask to bring the principal into the discussion if you want, but don’t raise your voice or threaten to have the teacher fired. Being nasty will only distract all parties from your point of view and make it harder to work with the school in the long run.

Nine Steps for Savvy Parents

By Sharon Nolfi

meeting between you and your child’s teacher can be a powerful tool for helping your child succeed in school. Whether scheduled by the school, requested by you, or suggested by the teacher, such a meeting gives you a platform to learn about your child and to assert her needs. Follow these nine guidelines for more productive (and even enjoyable) parent-teacher conferences. Have a goal in mind. You or the teacher may have initiated the meeting. Either way, you should consider what you hope to accomplish. Ask yourself ahead of time what a successful outcome would look like to you, then plan and work toward that goal. Come prepared. Write down your questions ahead of time. Bring samples of your child’s work that demonstrate problem areas and/or strengths. Keep track of problem behaviors at home that may be repeating themselves in the classroom. Listen! Then respond. Let the teacher speak first, and listen www.mendolakefamilylife.com

carefully. Take notes on points you need clarified or with which you disagree. Respond to the teacher’s concerns, then introduce topics you want to cover. Ask for specifics. What is the particular behavior the teacher is complaining about? At what times and how frequently is it occurring? Ask what an acceptable behavior would look like. Request special services. Many services are available for children with special needs. Ask for an evaluation if you suspect your child has a learning disability. October 2014

Avoid discussion of other children. Teachers have legal and ethical reasons why they can’t discuss other children. Information about your child should be kept confidential as well. Respect these practices for everyone’s benefit. Be willing to follow-up. Let the teacher know you are willing to help your child at home if necessary. Ask what you can do at home to supplement what is going on in the classroom, and then do it. Ask for more time if needed. You are entitled to a full discussion and understanding of your child’s progress at school. If the teacher can’t continue right then, set up another appointment at a convenient time. Welcome the chance to confer with your child’s teacher, whether your child is having problems or not. You and the teacher can help each other to provide the best educational experience possible. Children learn best when home and school agree about expectations and goals. ¶ Sharon Nolfi is a licensed school psychologist and mother of grown children. Her writing has been published worldwide.

MendoLakeFamilyLife 19

Family Fun

Actors at the Enchanted Pumpkin Path play out a fairy tale.

Fun abounds at the Ukiah Country PumpkinFest.

Halloween Havoc!

Haunted Houses, Pumpkin Patches, and Goodies Galore

Mendocino County The Enchanted Pumpkin Path. For a kinder and gentler Halloween (no scary stuff allowed), head to this event at the Waldorf School of Mendocino County on October 31, 5–8 p.m. Elaborately costumed actors lining a trail will act out different scenes from a surprise well-known tale. (The Wizard of Oz and Beatrix Potter stories were used in previous years.) Inside the school building, you’ll find fortune readings, storytelling, music, games, and food at the Smoky Cauldron Café. Tickets are $8–$10 and are available in advance at the Mendocino Book Company. See waldorfmendocino.com or call 485-8719 for details.

Ukiah Country PumpkinFest. Bring your brood of ninjas, magicians, and fairies to the largest street fair in Mendocino County. On October 18, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. and October 19, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., downtown Ukiah will become a tribute to All Things Halloween. You’ll find a haunted house, pet costume contest, Scout-o-Rama, Scarecrow City, and children’s carnival. In addition, enjoy live music, craft and fine art exhibits, the Deep Valley Brew and Wine Festival, and a parade. You can also compete in the three-on-three hoop tourney or a pumpkin baking contest. Go to the PumpkinFest page at cityofukiah.com or call 463-6231 for more information.

For more area events, see www.mendofamilylife.com. 20 MendoLakeFamilyLife

October 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Clearlake

Haunted Hall of Horrors: Carnevil. If you are looking for spooks, then check out this den of the diabolical, sponsored by the Fort Bragg Lion’s Club. The evil doin’s will happen at the Fort Bragg Lion’s Hall on October 24, 25, and 31, 7–10 p.m. Tickets for adults 16 and over are $10; under 16, $8. Get further details at fortbragglionsclub.org/ leo-haunted-house-.html. Enchanted Halloween Children’s Garden. Have a nature-centered Halloween at Campovida vineyards, where children will be invited to explore gardens and participate in a pumpkin hunt on October 25, 11 a.m.–noon. Kids can dine on organic apple cider and healthy treats, too. There is a suggested donation of $5 per child. RSVP by e-mailing tasteofplace@campovida.com or call 744.8797. See campovida.com/ home.html for details. Lake County Lakeside Family Fun and Event Center: Trunk & Treats. If extra-safe trick-or-treating is your goal, go to this event, where kids won’t have to cross streets and can fill their bags with sweets from reliable sources. On Friday, October 31, 6–9 p.m., local businesses and organizations will be giving out treats from decorated trunks of cars parked in the Lakeside Family Fun and Event Center parking lot. Go to www.lakesidefamilyfun.com or call 263-4828 to find out more. Lakeport Trick-or-Treating. Stroll along Lakeport’s Main Street on October 31, 2–4 p.m., for a candy-filled good time. More than 30 stores will be giving out treats. That’s a lot of loot! The whole clan can enter a costume contest, too. Trophies and prizes will be awarded in these categories: 0-4 years; 5-7 years; 8-12 years; 13-17 years; 18+ (adult); and family. The event goes on, rain or shine. See lakeportmainstreet.com or call 263-8843 to find out more.

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Youth Center Lake County Youth Services is a non profit program serving youth ages 7 thru 17.

Continuing thru the Fall

Archery Program

Boxing Program

Lessons will be one day per week. competitions on selected weekends. Affiliated with Middletown archery and USA Jr. Olympics. Call for information.

Kick boxing & self defense, fundamental boxing training. Trainer retired Pro-Kick Boxer Charlie Smith. Call for information.

Join the Boy Scouts Wednesdays at 6:30pm Join the Girl Scouts 4th Wednesday 6pm

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT! EVERY DOLLAR COUNTS Want a tax deduction, donate your old vehicle. Call Enterprise Towing at 707 994-8801 and they will pick it up! Must have title

To make a monetary donation: send to: Attn: Youth Center P.O. Box 1042 Lower Lake CA 95457 Please make checks out to LCPF/ Youth Center

FRIDAY OCTOBER 31 Costume Parade 4-5pm

From Highlands Park to the Youth Center

Halloween Celebration 5-9pm Haunted House • Bouncy House Games • Music • Decorated Trunks Costume & Trunk Contest Free Food

707-994-KIDS 4750 Golf Ave., Clearlake clearlakeyouthcenter.org October 2014

MendoLakeFamilyLife 21

October Calendar of Events

Get Your Steampunk On

oes an edgy mix of 19th-century style and futuristic sensibilities capture your imagination? Then put on your top hat and corset, and head on over to the Spirits on the Loch in Austin Park, Clearlake, October 25–26, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. The steampunk event will feature kinetic sculptures, live music, food, and activities, including a pop-up mini-steamboat race. At the Eve Regale Masquerade Ball, revelers will enjoy a gourmet meal and entertainment by percussionist-inventor Andy Graham, the New World– music group Whispering Light, and magician Ray Hoey. Tickets to the fair and/ or ball are $3–$60. See spiritsontheloch.com for further details. ¶

Wednesday 1 FREE A Child, a Dog & a Good Book.

A therapy-dog reading program plus games. Wednesdays. 3:30 p.m. Ukiah Library. 105 N. Main St., Ukiah. 463-4153. co.mendocino.ca.us/library. Learning Thru Play. Mondays, Wednesdays & Thursdays. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Action Network. 39144 Ocean Dr., Suites 3 & 4, Gualala. 884-5413. actionnetwork.info.

WICKED KICKS!

LET US HELP YOU FIND YOURS

20 OFF

Commercial St., Willits. 459-1726. willitscenterforthearts.org. ABCs of Parenting. Seven-week

program for parents with children ages 3–7 years. Learn nurturing skills & strategies. Classes in English & Spanish. Dinner & child care provided. Thursdays thru Nov. 13. 5:30–7:30 p.m. Minnie Cannon Elementary School. Middletown. 987-1497. lakecoe.org.

Price Less Auto Glass

Our mobile unit comes to you

plus installation

Chip Repair

First Month. October Only

Lake County Martial Arts 22 MendoLakeFamilyLife

FREE Art in the Key of Life. Art show at the Willits Center for the Arts. Begins 10/2 & 10/3, 7–9 p.m. Music and treats at official opening: 10/4, 7–9 p.m. Thereafter, Saturdays and Sundays, 12–3 p.m. Thru 10/26. Oils, watercolors, jewelry, and sculpture from nine local artists. Willits Center for the Arts (next to the Noyo Theater). 71 East

Windshields

• Respect • Discipline • Self Confidence

1624 Parallel Dr, Lakeport,

Thursday 2

263-0706

39 95

707-463-1638

2350 North State St. Ukiah

October 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

FREE Lego Hour. Fun after-school activity. For all ages. Build a creation to display in the children’s library. Tuesdays & Thursdays. 3 p.m. Ukiah Library. 105 N. Main St., Ukiah. 463-4153. co.mendocino.ca.us/library.

Friday 3

Second Annual Native American Fry Bread Cook-off & Crafts Fair.

Craft-making, vendors, raffles, native dancers, music & much more. 3–7 p.m. Alex R. Thomas Plaza. 310 S. State St., Ukiah. 468-1336. nciha.org. FREE Global March for Elephants

FREE First Friday Family Movie

& Rhinos. Take

Night. Free popcorn & Kool-Aid.

Candy, soda & hot dogs are available. Kid-safe family films from Disney & other moviemakers. 6:30 p.m. 274-8326. lucernecommunitychurch.com. Annual Fall Plant Sale at Mendocino College. Perennials,

Saturday 4

fall vegetables, shrubs & trees & hard-to-find plants. Fri. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. 1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah. 468-3148. mendocino.edu.

part in peaceful march. 10:30 a.m. March begins at St. Mary’s Square & ends at the United Nations Plaza. San Francisco. marchforelephants.org. FREE My Future, My Way Workshop.

Open to Lake & Mendocino County students grades 7–12. Come & explore colleges & careers in the culinary arts, music, technology & more. Learn about scholarships

& jobs. Talk with experts. Space limited. Students must register in advance. Lunch provided. 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m. Mendocino College. 2565 Parallel Dr., Lakeport. 994-9001. lakecoe.org. FREE Mendocino One World Festival.

A local happening with a global vision! Family-friendly event will celebrate live music, dance, food, arts & crafts, healing arts & children’s activities from around the world. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Friendship Park. Hwy. 1 & Little Lake Rd., Mendocino. communitycenterofmendocino.org. 15th Annual Big River Run & Paddle.

A noncompetitive walk & paddle along Big River. Event assists county with support services free of charge to

Ukiah Saturday Afternoon Club Presents

5th Annual

Local Women’s Music Festival

Saturday, October 11th 12–5pm Nelson Family Vineyards’ • Redwood Grove 550 Nelson Ranch Road

Holly Tannen Mystic Soul conga ensemble Helene Eve Katie Sontag Nori Dolan dance ensemble

Freya Palley Mary Buckley & Friends Aubrey Hoop Dancer Madge & Friends & More

Supporting: Youth Build KZYX Food Stamp Match Program for FM

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Bring Water & Lawn Chairs Food Venders on Site Suggested Donation

October 2014

MendoLakeFamilyLife 23

individuals & families facing cancer. $25 registration. Pledges encouraged. 9:30–11:30 a.m. Mendocino Headlands State Park. Big River Haul Rd. & Hwy. 1, Mendocino. 937-3833. crcmendocino.org. Mendocino English Country Dance.

Join us for fun, easy community dancing. No partner or special dress is required. Beginners are encouraged. Beginners session. 7–7:30 p.m. Dance 8–10:30 p.m. Caspar Community Center. 15051 Caspar Rd., Caspar. 964-4997. casparcommons.org.

Textile Arts. 450 Alger St., Fort Bragg. pacifictextilearts.org. FREE Family Movies at the Library.

Enjoy current releases & old favorites. Includes both animated & live-action films. All ages. Children must be with adult. First Sat. of each month. 1425 N. High St., Lakeport. 263-8817. co.lake.ca.us. Oktoberfest. Authentic German

food, music, beer & wine garden, Dachshund Derby, vendors, games & more. Awards for best Bavarian attire. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Main St., Lakeport. oktoberfest-lakeport.com.

FREE Fiber Fair. Exhibitor booths selling new fiber works as well as ethnic textiles, unique handmade clothing, fabrics, books, yarns, some equipment, & other textile-related treasures. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Pacific

FREE Family Story Time. Saturdays 1 p.m. Ukiah Library. 105 N. Main St., Ukiah. 463-4153. co.mendocino.ca.us/library.

PAGES

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3. ThenApple just hold your theseFamily Life Androidphone over MendoLake page with our app open. It will recognize photos and give you videos and cool stuff to see.

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FREE Kids Fun Day! Sports, skateboarding, inline skating, snack shop, Bible time & more! Grades 1–12. Adult supervision. Parental permission slips required. Fridays. 4–6 p.m. Lucerne Community Church. 5870 E. Hwy. 20, Lucerne. 274-8326. lucernecommunitychurch.com. FREE Children’s Health Fair. Bike safety course, child ID booth, health screenings & fun activities for children ages 0–12. 11 a.m. Alex

8th Annual

PAGES

1. Download the FREE App

1. Download our FREE

Listen to some terrific fiddle tunes played by members of the Northern California Old Time Fiddlers Group. Noon–2 p.m. Ely Stage Stop & Country Museum. 9921 Soda Bay Rd., Kelseyville.

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FREE First Sunday Fiddlers’ Jam.

Festival

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Sunday 5

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3 . Point your phone (or tablet) at pages with this icon

Saturday,iedoeoOctober 11, 2014

– Exhibitor Hall –

with this icon

General wellness information and booths featuring providers of wellness products and services.

Plus:

Healthy foods to sample • Health information with guest speakers • Hospital tours • Helicopter and Ambulance tours • Face painting and storytime for children • Meet telemedicine robot Dr. Don • Fun for the whole family!

Noyo River Run – Start time 9am See mcdh.org/festival-2014 for information.

MCDH Wellness Center

24 MendoLakeFamilyLife

700 RiveR DRive, FORt BRagg 707 961-4670 www.mcdh.org/festival-2014

October 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Rorabaugh Center. 1640 S. State St., Ukiah. 467-4900. bit.ly/FreeCHF. Pumpkin Express. Travel round-trip thru the redwoods to the pumpkin patch at Northspur Station. Kids get pumpkins & treats. Costumes encouraged. Sundays. Thru Oct. $34–$54. Departures: Willits 9:45 a.m. Fort Bragg 10 a.m. Skunk Train Depot. 964-6371. skunktrain.com. 13th Annual Falling Leaves Quilt Show. Judged,

open-entry show of more than 200 quilts. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Lake County Fairgrounds. 401 Martin St., Lakeport. 263-3831. lakecounty.com.

Tuesday 7 FREE After-School Fun. Full

program of after-school activities, including homework assistance. Tuesdays. 3:30–5 p.m. Action Network. 198 Main St., Point Arena. 884-5413. actionnetwork.info. FREE AWANA Kids Club. For kids ages 3 yrs. to 6th grade. Games and Bible time. Tuesdays. 6:30–8 p.m. Clearlake Baptist Church. 555 N. Forbes St., Lakeport. 263-3256. clearlakebaptistchurch.org.

Saturday 11 FREE Fifth Annual Local Women’s Music Festival. Presented by Ukiah

Saturday Afternoon Club. Enjoy a great day of music under the redwoods to raise funds for local nonprofits. Music & dance entertainment. Delicious food from local vendors & wine from the Nelson Tasting Room will be available for purchase. Noon–5 p.m. Nelson Family Vineyards. 550 Nelson Ranch Rd., Ukiah. 485-0823. www.mendolakefamilylife.com

FREE Giant Pumpkin Weigh-off.

Food vendors, bouncy houses & face painting. More than $3,000 in cash prizes. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Safeway Parking Lot. 653 S. State St., Ukiah. 463-6231. cityofukiah.com. Eighth Annual Wellness Festival.

11 a.m.–3 p.m. Mind-body-FIT

tent, exhibitor hall, healthy food samples, hospital tours, helicopter and ambulance tours, telemedicine robot Dr. Don. Noyo River Run: 9 a.m. Mendocino Coast District Hospital Wellness Center. 700 River Dr., Fort Bragg. 961.4670. mcdh.org/ festival-2014.

It doesn’t matter what you call it,

We Accept It. COVERED CALIFORNIA

AFFORDABLE CARE ACT OBAMACARE INSURANCE

WE ARE YOUR HOME FOR HEALTH CARE. 707-468-1010 333 LAWS AVE., UKIAH

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PRIMARY CARE IS THE FOUNDATION OF A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE. WE ACCEPT MEDICARE, MEDI-CAL, PARTNERSHIP & other insurance.

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MEDICAL • DENTAL • BEHAVIORAL HEALTH • CARE FOR HER October 2014

MendoLakeFamilyLife 25

FREE Fire Safety Expo. Watch the fire

engine parade from the fairgrounds to the Pear Tree Center. 9 a.m. Demonstrations, games & information. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Pear Tree Center. 504 E. Perkins St., Ukiah. visitukiah.com. Ukiah Symphony Orchestra. Adults $25. Seniors $20. Students/under 18 yrs. $5. Sat. 8 p.m. Sun. 3 p.m. Near & Arnold’s School of Performing Arts. 508 W. Perkins St., Ukiah. 462-0236. ukiahsymphony.org. Autumn Art on the 101. Benefits

Laytonville Angel Fund for the Arts. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Downtown Laytonville. 984-8089. laytonville.org. World Championship Abalone Cook-off & Festival. Benefits Mendocino Area Parks. 11:30 a.m.–2

p.m. 19101 S. Harbor Dr., Fort Bragg. 937-4700. mendoparks.org. Seventh Annual Live & Give Celebration. Live music, silent & live

auctions. You must be 21 to attend. $25. 6–10 p.m. Hidden Valley Lake Community Center. 18766 Lakeridge Circle, Hidden Valley Lake. 987-3063. lcics.org. First Annual Domestic Violence Purple Power Walk. Participants &

local businesses will wear or display purple in order to show their support of the movement to end domestic violence in Lake County. Hosted by Lake County Family Resource Center. 9 a.m. Freedom House Domestic Violence Shelter. 5350 Main St., Kelseyville. 279-0563. lakeconews.com.

Annual Fundraiser Dinner. Celebrate

the 20th anniversary of the Lake County Land Trust. $70. 3 p.m. Wine & appetizers & silent auction. 5 p.m. dinner. 6 p.m. talk by Congressman Mike Thompson. The Lodge at Blue Lakes. 5135 W. Hwy. 20, Upper Lake. 262-0707. lakecountylandtrust.org. Steele Wines Harvest Festival. Enjoy

wine tasting, grape stomping, pie eating, arts/crafts & food. Sat. & Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. 4350 Thomas Dr. & Hwy. 29, Kelseyville. 279-9475. steelewines.com.

Sunday 12 Parducci Crush Rush. 5K Run/ Walk in the Vineyard. A community fundraiser to benefit the Ukiah Unified School Gardens Program.

Cut your Business Phone Bill by 25% John Meyer New Trend Cellular

“Our phones were driving us crazy!” Overpriced, dropped calls and poor customer service. Repectech came to the rescue and now we are changing all of our stores over to them. Great price, great call quality and wonderful customer service.”

Call for Free Consultation 462-8098 245 E Perkins St. Ukiah • 707-462-8098 Business Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm 26 MendoLakeFamilyLife

Education For Life! Ready for that next step? Yuba College A Smart Choice

Apply and Enroll Today! 707-995-7900 • clc.yccd.edu

15880 Dam Road Extension • Clearlake October 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Open to all ages. Pre-registration required. Adults $25. Ages 16 & under $15. Entry includes t-shirt, brunch & wine tasting. Race starts at 8:30 a.m. Parducci Wine Cellars. 501 Parducci Rd., Ukiah. 489-1485. jessa@parducci.com. parducci.com. Vineyard Run for Literacy. Join

us for our 25th year during the Steele Wines Annual Harvest Fair. A 5K walk/run, or 10K run. 9 a.m. 4350 Thomas Dr., Kelseyville. 263-7633. rdysetgo.com. FREE Friends of Boggs Mountain Trailwork Day. Bring water, work

gloves & hand tools, such as loppers or clippers. 9–11 a.m. Boggs Mountain State Park. Forestry Rd., Middletown. 928-0465. boggsmountain.net.

Gualala Rd., Gualala. 884-5413. actionnetwork.info.

Saturday 18 FREE First Annual Heroes of

Medical helicopters, rescue vehicles, boating safety information, car seat safety inspections, bike helmet giveaway, health checks & flu vaccinations. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Lake County Fairgrounds. 401 Martin St., Lakeport. 263-6181. lakecoe.org. Health & Safety Fair.

Gualala River Run 2014. 10K

& 5K runs. 5K Fun Walk. Registration $10–$35. Post-race brunch: $10–$15. Proceeds support Action Network’s programs for local youth & families. Registration: 7–8:30 a.m. Runs start 9–9:15 a.m. Brunch 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Races start & end at the Gualala Arts Center. 46501

FREE Ukiah Country 21st Annual Pumpkinfest. Parade

begins Sat. 10 a.m. from Redwood Fairground. Rain or shine. Haunted house, beer & wine tasting, arts & crafts, parade, pet costume contest, scarecrows, children’s activities & more! Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. & Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. School St., Ukiah. cityofukiah.com. 18th Annual Deep Valley Beer Festival. Music

and brews & wines from local areas. $25 advance. $20 door. 1–6 p.m. Corner of School & Church Streets, Ukiah. 462-4705. Fab Over 40. Fashion show, dinner

& live & silent auction. Seating is limited. $45. Proceeds go to Every 15 Minutes Program & the Dictionary

School Offices Open for Enrollment August 6

More than a hospital, your local partner.

HOSPITAL SERVICES 707-262-5000 COMMUNITY CLINIC 707-262-6885 AFTER HOURS CARE 707-262-5088

Whether you need a primary care community clinic, 24/7 trauma services, after-hours family care, complex surgery, private birthing suites or medical screenings Sutter Health partners with you. And now, with a single electronic patient record, you’ll have online access to prescriptions, test results, and physician messaging. Expert integrated care – it’s another way we plus you.

Parents Count

You can have a voice in your child's education Here's how: • Attend monthly School Site Council Meetings. • Support your school Parent/Teacher Association. • Volunteer for school and/or classroom activities. • Attend Back to School Nights in the fall and Open House in the spring. • Visit the district's website and learn about current events (www.uusd.net).

UKIAH UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

sutterlakeside.org

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

511 S. ORCHARD AVE., UKIAH • 707-472-5000

October 2014

MendoLakeFamilyLife 27

Project. Doors 5:30 p.m. Dinner & show 6:15 p.m. Barra of Mendocino. 7051 N. State St., Redwood Valley. visitmendocino.com. Homemade soup & chili. Door prize, silent auction & no-host bar. Benefits the food bank. 5–7:30 p.m. Pentecost Hall. 822 Stewart St., Fort Bragg. 964-9404. fortbraggfoodbank.org. Soup & Chili Cook-off.

Harvest Festival at Fort Ross.

Horse & wagon rides, Su Nu Nu Shinal Kashia Pomo dances, historic Russian crafts, cannon firing, communal dances & much more. $20 per car. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Fort Ross State Historic Park. 19005 Coast Hwy., Jenner. 847-3437. fortross.org. Shipwreck Days. Featuring

pirate garb, grub, booths, music & activities for the entire family. Tug-of-war with pirate crew (loser goes into the lake). 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Library Park Gazebo. 225 Park St., Lakeport. 263-8843. lakeportmainstreet.com. Fifth Annual Lakeport Fire Dinner, Dance & Auction. Dancing

to Fargo Brothers Band. $30. Doors: 5:30 p.m. Lake County Fairgrounds. 401 Martin St., Lakeport. 263-4396. lakecochamber.com.

Annual Martini Madness. Fundraiser

for Meals on Wheels. Music, raffles, live auction, martini-making contest. $45. $30 designated driver. 6–9 p.m. Gualala Arts Center. 46501 Gualala Rd., Gualala. gualalaarts.org. FREE Teen Halloween Party. 7–10 p.m. Community Center. 18677 Lakeridge Circle, Hidden Valley. 987-3138. hvla.com.

Saturday 25 Spirits on the Loch. Steampunk event.

Steamboat races, costumes, crafty vendors, live music. Saturday night dinner gala. Sat. & Sun. 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Austin Park. 14077 Lakeshore Dr., Clearlake. spirtsontheloch.com. FREE Kids Halloween Party. Enjoy

a safe & fun Halloween. Costumes encouraged! 2–5 p.m. Community Center. 18677 Lakeridge Circle, Hidden Valley. 987-3138. hvla.com. Fall Car and Motorcycle Show. Visit

with bike manufacturers, insurance reps, vendors & exhibitors showcasing motorcycles for sale, accessories & more. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Golf Course. 19210 Hartmann Rd., Hidden Valley. 987-3138. hvla.com.

Friday 31 Halloween Bash & Monster Mash.

Friday 24 Leos Haunted Hall of Horrors: Carnevil in 3D. Adults

$10. Youth under 16 yrs. $8. Kids under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. 10/24, 10/25 & 10/31. 7–10 p.m. Ft. Bragg Lions Hall. 430 E. Redwood Ave., Ft. Bragg. 961-1727. fortbragglionsclub.org. 28 MendoLakeFamilyLife

Full no-host bar, costume contest, raffle prizes & taco bar buffet. 5–7 p.m. Live music by the High Notes. $15. 5–8:30 p.m. Lakeport Senior Activity Center. 527 Konocti Ave., Lakeport. 263-4218. lakeconews.com. FREE Trick-or-Treat Main Street.

More than 30 Lakeport stores will open their doors to trick-or-treating youngsters in costume. Trophies &

prizes will be awarded to costume contest winners. Event goes rain or shine. 2–4 p.m. Main St., Lakeport. 263-8843. lakeportmainstreet.com. Enchanted Pumpkin Path.

Children walk through path lined by elaborately costumed actors who play out a surprise children’s story. $8–$10. 5–8 p.m. Waldorf School of Mendocino County. 6280 Third St., Calpella. 485-8719. waldorfmendocino.com. FREE Halloween Safe Trick-or-Treat. For ages 2–12 yrs. Free party favor for the first 600 trick-or-treaters. Hosted by Ukiah Main Street Program & made possible by Downtown Merchants. 3:30–5:30 p.m. Downtown Ukiah. 462-6789. downtownukiah.com. FREE Second Annual Trunk & Treats.

Local businesses bring their decorated cars to the Lakeside Family Fun parking lot & pass out candy or fun treats as kids go from car to car. 6–9 p.m. 872 Lakeport Blvd., Lakeport. 263-4828. lakesidefamilyfun.com. FREE Halloween Open House. 1–3 p.m.: face painting, snacks, and drinks. 3:30 p.m. costume contest. 3–5 p.m. trick-or-treating with merchants at Cypress Village Shopping Center. Action Network. 39144 Ocean Dr., Suites 3 & 4, Gualala. 884.5413. actionnetwork.info. Clearlake Youth Center Trunk or Treat. Costume parade: 4–5 p.m.

Runs from Highlands Park to Youth Center. Halloween celebration: 5–9 p.m. Haunted house, bouncy house, games, music, food, decorated trunks, costume & trunk contest. Clearlake Youth Center. 4750 Golf Ave., Clearlake. Clearlakeyouthcenter.org.

October 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Marketplace Schools

Schools

La Vida Charter School

n u FBlast! Weekend

• Independent Study • K –12 • Free Public Charter • Academic & Specialty Classes • Gifted & Talented Served • Inspired by Waldorf Education 16201 N. Hwy. 101, Willits

707-459-6344

Tuition-free Montessori elementary for ages 5-13  Hands-on, arts and music integrated with academics

 National Green Campus  Promotes responsibility,

www.MendoLakeFamilyLife.com

Accelerated Achievement Academy • • • •

I can’t wait to... share dreams watch her grow join in on the fun

respect, and peace Located on north end of Fairgrounds PO Box 966 Ukiah 95482

www.lavidaschool.org

Lessons

Join us today GirlScoutsNorCal.org/StartTheFun

Tutoring

707-462-0913 treeoflifeschool@pacific.net www.treeoflifeschool.net

Free Public School Grades 4-12 Small classes Support for struggling students

Your Child can Thrive!

(707) 463-7080 1031 N. State St.

Online learning ignites the minds of children like yours

Gifts

Oh Sweet Sugar Candy Store • Lakeport Fudge & Truffles! Custom-Colored Candy for Your Birthday or Wedding

Enroll now K12.com/AAS or 877-506-8631

Health

KID’S HEALTH it makes sense! 707-900-5036 • 140 A N. Main Lakeport

Get Moms Attention! YOUR AD HERE Classifieds Work Call 586-9562

Studies show that healthy children are happier, more confident, and do better in school, and beyond...

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710 West Napa St., Suite 1 • Sonoma www.sonomanatmed.com

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

October 2014

MendoLakeFamilyLife 29

Humor Break

Itsy Bitsy Spooky Spider A Father-Son Arachnid Drama

whisper, fully Blair-Witched, “Dad, I have to pee.”

By Bull Garlington

Now please understand I was exhausted and just not thinking. I opened the mosquito netting, helped him get on his shoes, clicked on the flashlight, slowly opened the tent flaps, handed him the light, and gently pushed him out.

y son is sasquatchian. His shoes are individual collections of remarkable biodiversity. Our doorways all have an arch worn into the lintel where his head knocks the wood away. When he was a baby, we called him Bam-Bam for his weird, natural chimp-like strength, which hasn’t waned in the least. He can palm a watermelon. He’s strong. He’s tall. He’s afraid of spiders. My son’s fear of spiders comes from his fascination with them. As soon as he could read, he devoured every book about spiders the library had. I expected him to emerge with a healthy respect for and scholarly delight in our arachnidan friends. Instead, he crawled out pale and concerned. Dad: What’s wrong, kiddo? Kiddo: Did you know there are more spiders than people? Dad: Yeah, sure.

Kiddo: That no matter where you are, you’re always within 10 feet of 100 spiders? Dad: I did not know that. Kiddo: Neither did I. Until now. And thus, a completely normal fascination morphed into a neurosis. 30 MendoLakeFamilyLife

I enrolled him into Boy Scouts to assuage his fear and teach him about The Outdoors. This was a mistake. We arrived at Camp Stranglehold in the middle of summer when the heat and the rain had driven Michigan’s

The bugs crawling on the ground were so thick they looked like migrating wigs. insects into an orgiastic frenzy. On the afternoon of the first day, the boy tried to ask for more pants, when something soft and prehistoric landed in his open mouth. He spit it out, and it flew away like nothing had happened. And here—friends, cohorts, fellow bad parents—is where you may recognize how my peculiar humor does not serve my progeny well. Instead of handing him my bottle of warm Kool-Aid, instead of patting him on the shoulder while offering a comforting chuckle, I said: “It’s OK, it’s just laying eggs.” Late that night, after talking him down and carefully wrapping him in a cocoon of mosquito netting, I laid my own head down on my cot and began to drift away. Just as I shifted into REM, I heard him

In the dancing circle of torchlight, the bugs crawling on the ground were so thick they looked like migrating wigs. My son stopped screaming long enough to tell me he was peeing in the tent. I didn’t stop him. Today he was getting ready for school when I realized he’d been in the shower a long time. Dad: You OK? Son: [silence] Dad: Son!? Son: I’m trapped. Dad: Whaddaya mean? Son: There’s a spider. I saw it on the windowsill, but now it’s gone. Dad: Son, come out. Son: I DON’T KNOW WHERE IT IS! Dad: It’s OK. It’s probably looking for water. Son: Get away from the door! [crash]. ¶ Bull Garlington is the author of Death by Children, the ForeWord Review’s Humor 2013 Book of the Year.

October 2014 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Ask your grocer for

Gowan

Gravensteins Jonathan, Golden Delicious, Fall Pippin, Red Delicious, Macintosh, Gravenstein

Orchard-fresh flavor in every bite! Visit Gowan’s at These Farmers Markets Ukiah–Saturdays 8:30–Noon Fort Bragg–Wednesdays 3–6 p.m. Willits–Thursdays 3–6 p.m.

Gowan Orchards Your local heritage farm for 138 years

free children’s health fair

W i ld A bout H ealth Kids’ Challenge Course – In Memory of Sidney W. Maurer, MD Health Screenings | Fun Activities | Prizes | Shriners Hospital Screening

FREE

TH HEALNINGS E SCRE hildren for C

Sunday October 5, 2014 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Alex Rorabaugh Center

Grace Hudson Elementary School campus 1640 S. State St., Ukiah Rain or Shine!

Bike Safety Course

Bring your bike & helmet Or receive a FREE helmet at the event

For children 0-12 and their families 707.467.5282 for more information Major Underwriters:

Connect with us on Facebook: http://bit.ly/FreeCHF