California Kids • August 2017

August 2017

www.valcomnews.com |  TRAVEL, 6 |  CRAFTS, 7 |  BOOK REPORT, 8 |  WHO WROTE THAT, 10

LGBT acceptance in schools www.valcomnews.com Publisher: David Herburger Editor: Monica Stark - 916-267-8992 Contributing Writers: Susan Roberts, Bitsy Kemper, Carmel Mooney Art Director: John Ochoa Graphic Designer: Annin Greenhalgh Advertising: Melissa Andrews, Linda Pohl - 916-429-9901 Cover photo by Metro News Service California Kids! is published monthly and distributed to more than 1,000 locations in the Sacramento Valley, including all of Sacramento County, and portions of Yolo (Davis and Woodland), Placer (Rocklin and Roseville), El Dorado (Cameron Park, El Dorado Hills, Placerville) counties.

Subscriptions are available for $30/year. Mail prepaid check or money order to California Kids!, 1109 Markham Way, Sacramento, CA 95818. Make sure to specify the person and address to which you wish issues to be mailed.

By Akshaj Mehta, Grade 7 The students who have same gender likings, who feel or are uncomfortable with their own gender, or identify as the opposite gender are known as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender kids. The LGBT kids face enormous social difficulties and challenges at school and in the community. This social nonacceptance affects their school success, health and happiness tremendously.

A lot of LGBT kids are being bullied at middle and high schools across the world.

What I have heard around my friends whom i dislike personally is “Wow, she / he is so gay.”

“You’re so gay because of that.”

According to me, middle schools and high schools as it is can be difficult and different environments for mostly all students, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, but they are often unwelcoming for especially LGBT youth.

We all should understand that being gay or lesbian is not bad or sinful. We all have our own individual identity and so do they.

And making fun of them and name calling in school or outside in public places is the worst we are doing. We are not only hurting their feelings but also hindering their self-esteem which has only resulted in youth to drop out of schools. They are not able to handle Bullying and Peer rejection.

I urge everybody to respect and treat everyone equally, no matter what our preferences are, no matter who we like.

Concluding with great words by Doe Zantamata Look for differences and you will find them.

Look for similarities and you will find them.

We’re all different on the outside, yet deep in our hearts, we all share the very same joy, pain, hope, and love.

Deadlines for advertising and calendar listings are the 25th of the month prior to publication. Calendar listings should be mailed to 1109 Markham Way, Sacramento, CA 95818, called in 916-267-8992, or e-mailed to editor@ valcomnews.com.

Copyright 2017 by Valley Community Newspapers Inc. 1109 Markham Way, Sacramento, CA 95818.

Phone: (916) 429-9901. Fax: (916) 429-9906. E-mail:calkids@valcomnews.com. ©2017 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

FOLSOM MONTESSORI

Preschool & Kindergarten

Open House: Sunday, August 13 10 am – Noon

Enrolling for Fall!

PEEK INSIDE OUR CLASSROOMS at

www.folsommontessori.com

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Folsom's first Montessori school serving families since 1980 502 Riley St. 351-0345 CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • AUGUST 2017

Kaleidoscopic Artwork PL!NK a Highlight of Crocker’s Newest Art Spots for Kids PL!NK Invites Virtual Visitors to Participate from Remote Locations Via Website

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n an immersible experience of dazzling color, light and reflection, children are invited to explore the Crocker Art Museum’s newest Art Spot, PL!NK. Created by two UC Davis professors of design, PL!NK is designed to inspire creativity and wonder, enabling children and their grownups to enjoy a shared experience.

Funded in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and First 5 Sacramento, the Crocker Art Museum’s experimental Art Spots program features four experiential installations designed for children age 5 and under and their caregivers.

Each Art Spot is created by a different artist or team who spent the last year participating in the Crocker’s ongoing early childhood program to gain a thorough understanding of children’s developmental needs and interests.

The first Art Spot, Gato, appeared in the Museum’s historic building in May. Created by artists Michelle Lee and Darin Reyes, this installation allows children to step into the dream world of a giant toy cat that mesmerizes little museum visitors. (Gato is on view through October 29, 2017) Art Spot: PL!NK sprang up in the Museum on Sunday, July 23. Inspired by kaleidoscopic configurations, PL!NK invites children to step into an enchanting work of art that is comprised of more than100 tetrahedron clusters comprised of mirrors and colorful Plexiglas. An experimentation station allows children to create their own shape-based, interlocking, sculptural forms on the spot, as they participate individually or through cooperative play.

“Kids love experimenting with art, and to nurture their creative development as human beings, we’re taking it one step farther,” says PL!NK co-creator, Glenda Drew. “Our intent is to essentially soak children in a beautiful experience of light

and color and shapes, and as they engage, we give them an opportunity to share their experience with others.”

As components of the Crocker Art Museum’s pioneering Early Childhood Initiative, the Art Spots focus on school readiness for young learners. PL!NK features a real-time video playback effect with tiny cameras inserted into the artwork that capture and magnify visitors’ images. PL!NK also engages children in storytelling, a vital aspect of language development. At a storytelling station, children can voice-record stories stimulated by the space. Additionally, the artists have created an opportunity for remote participation in this aspect of the artwork through a website that enables children, caregivers, and teachers to contribute stories that will be played in the Museum space.

“We’re taking this experience beyond the Museum walls and redefining the relationship between artwork and community,” says PL!NK’s other co-creator, Jiayi Young.

“By involving children from Sacramento and its surrounding communities, through the assistance of their caregivers and teachers, we want to extend the reach of this experience so that it is inclusive of all children, especially those in outlying and underrepresented communities.”

PL!NK will be on view through Oct. 29.

In the fall, the Museum will unveil a new Tot Land installation created by Bay Area artist Martin Webb. Inspired by a work in the Crocker Art Museum’s permanent collection, this Art Spot will allow children to climb into a wooden boat, as they explore and use their imagination to envision a world of possibilities. The existing Tot Land installation will close briefly at the end of August and re-open with the new Art Spot on Sept. 10.

Rounding out the first season of Art Spots is the festive 3-D installation, Wingding.

AUGUST 2017 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

Created by local artist Sonja White for young children as well as their grownups, this art experience offers opportunities to interact with, and learn about, the basic elements of art through play, experimentation, and creative collaboration. Wingding will be open for experience November 19, 2017 – March 4, 2018.

The Crocker Art Museum features the world’s foremost display of California art and is renowned for its holdings of European master drawings and international ceramics. The Museum offers a diverse spectrum of exhibitions, events, and programs to augment its collections, including films, concerts, studio classes, lectures, children’s activities, and more.

The Crocker is located at 216 O Street in downtown Sacramento.

Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursdays. Every third Sunday of the month is “Pay What You Wish Sunday”, sponsored by Western Health Advantage. For more information, call 808-7000, or visit crockerart.org.

Come Ov & Play! er August 5 & 6 Puppet Show:

Animal Olympics

August 11 Family Campout

Spend the night in our park!

September 10 Grandparents Day 3901 Land Park Drive, Sacramento (916) 808-7462

For more programs and events, visit fairytaletown.org 3

From Mr. Oliver to Sup’r Oliver: Howe Avenue assistant teacher undergoes identity change

By Monica Stark As an assistant teacher for 19 years going by the name Mr. Oliver, Oliver Young works now educating the public that he’s got another name: Sup’r Oliver. It was a daily performance for Mr. Oliver over at Howe Avenue Elementary School, but as of February he’s started a brand new business – Sup’r Oliver’s Children’s Entertainment– a transition, he thinks won’t be too trying. “Now, I have to take the time to educate the public that Mr. Oliver and Sup’r Oliver are one in the same which I think will work out quite nice for me in the future; at least that’s what I’m betting on,” he says.

What he enjoys most about children’s entertainment is that he gets to be a kid again and play kid games. “The problems that plague the adult world seem to melt away, and I am actually happy while I’m getting exercise or doing whatever. With the kids I run around with them, pull them in wagons, lift them up

into the air, draw pictures for them to color and much, much more. Each party I will tailor towards the child’s age and their interests.”

Young began working with children back in 1997 when he took an ROP Careers with Children’s class in high school in which he got to go back to one of his elementary schools, Howe Avenue Elementary School. “I really enjoyed my time there so much that after the class ended I stayed there for five years, and eventually got a job there as an assistant teacher and a substitute teacher,” he said.

And, that’s where the idea for Sup’r Oliver came about as he played and entertained the children on the playgrounds.

So as far as that is concerned, he worked as a teacher, assistant teacher, and substitute teacher with children for 19 years at various schools, daycare centers and after school programs. “So a funny thing about me I suppose is I hate to exercise but I love to run around and play with kids.

It’s weird. When I exercise,

Sup'r Oliver Childrens Entertainment With Sup’r Oliver’s Children’s Entertainment: You provide the location, We provide the fun & that Sup’r Wow Factor!

That’s a Guarantee…No that’s a Sup’r Guarantee!

GIVE US A CALL NOW AT

(916) 207-4096 or visit our Website: www.suproliver.com *Prices and Locations May Vary

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Photo by Stephen Crowley

Sup’R Oliver offers children’s entertainment locally.

I feel pain in my knees, my feet, my back etc. But when I’m running around with the kids playing tag, or sharks and minnows, I feel no pain. It’s fun. It’s exciting and it’s one of the things that I enjoy doing,” he says.

Not to toot his own horn, but Young says that when he worked with the children at just about every school that he went to, he got a lot of positive reviews and feedback from the children and the parents. “The welcoming reception that I usually got makes me feel like this will be a positive experience.”

Starting the Sup’r Oliver business has been a learning experience for the budding entrepreneur. Naïve in the beginning thinking he would

get some business grants, he says every time he applied, they turned out to be scams.

So about eight years ago, he realized the only way to make this a reality was to save the money himself, so that’s what he did. He cut back his spending, lived below his means, and soon he had enough to get started. He quit his job on Feb. 3 of this year and is on his way.

His transition from teacher to children’s entertainer comes after looking inside himself. “Now don’t get me wrong. My job wasn’t a bad one, it just had no future. I had reached the limits of how far I could go there. They weren’t going to pay me any more money. Besides there was a lot of other tasks that I had to do there that I wasn’t happy doing such as teaching, disciplining, putting up with the other adults who actually liked being teachers. I wasn’t so much a teacher as I was an actor playing a teacher to get where I need to go in life.”

So, he went to college twice, the first time for Early Childhood Education at American River College 1997-2002, though he didn’t graduate because he couldn’t pass the math and English classes, which he says is actually for the best because he realized in that time period that he didn’t want to be a teacher

– he just liked playing and entertaining the children.

The second time he went to college, he attended a local art school for film making, another of his many passions.

After a hefty $300,000 worth of student debt and a lack of education, he says the school didn’t really teach him how to do anything. “They just taught me of things that were needed to do, so I got a very expensive lesson not to be so trusting I suppose.” So as far as being a film maker is concerned, he is still working on it. “I’m not going to let them steal my dreams from me, so I am going to learn the skills myself. So, that is still a work in progress. I’m working on branding my character into several other avenues to get my name out there, such as writing, acting, etc.””

You might see him driving around town in his 1998 Honda Accord LX sedan with a vehicle wrap advertising his entertainment business.

The children’s party business will take place where ever the customer wants it to. His motto is: “You provide the location, and I’ll provide the fun.

Customers or anyone can get a hold of me for the business at (916) 207-4096 or for other matters at (916) 718-5149, or go on my website which is still in construction at www. suproliver.com.”

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • AUGUST 2017

Faces and Places:

State Fair pie eating contest Photos by STEPHEN CROWLEY

StePHeN@VAlCoMNeWS.CoM

Kids, teens, and adults tested their pie eating skills at the Promenade stage at the California State Fair on Tuesday, July 18. There could only be one winner in each category.

AUGUST 2017 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

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David Walley’s Hot Springs in the Beautiful Carson Valley of Nevada

By Carmel L. Mooney Looking for a nice getaway for the entire family that allows a respite from the scorching Sacramento area summer heat? We found one that offers a perfect ending to a relaxing weekend or a daycation in the gorgeous Carson Valley of Nevada. After a long vacation of fun in the summer sun, it gave us the chance to relax a bit before the three hour drive home to Northern California.

Upon arrival, we received our towels and locker keys.

The locker rooms were modern, comfortable and roomy.

But the floors were wet and unclean, so I would highly

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recommend bringing your own flip flops for everyone in your group to avoid possibly picking up a nasty case of athlete’s foot or plantar’s warts (gross).

Once we settled into the property, we enjoyed the various temperatures of the half dozen mineral soaking pools outside. Mark Twain did, too, and he even claimed the springs cured him of his ailments in 1887!

The fresh water relaxation and swimming pool is minimally chlorinated, but the others are not all — which I particularly liked since I am a bit of a purist. We were mesmerized by the majestic views of the high desert, cliffs, mountains and valley

during our indulging soaks from tub to tub in the cool and crisp mountain air.

Making friends while soaking in the hot springs was easy. Both parents and kids alike made friends as everyone was extremely friendly.

We met numerous warm and sociable folks to chat with, including a local couple. It seemed during our stay to be a good mix of locals and tourists alike.

All ages, including young families and retired visitors, seemed to mingle well as they relaxed and conversed in the varied tubs. All the tubs ranged in temperature and the maintenance crew checked them often as they seemed to fluctuate by about 10 degrees even during our three-hour soaking session.

It was the perfect relaxing cap to a wonderful summer weekend in Carson Valley, Nevada, and we were finally ready to make the pilgrimage home.

Here are some of the amenities that we thoroughly enjoyed during our relaxing stay: Kid’s playground, swimming pools, full spa and spa treatments, free Wi-Fi, restaurant and cafe, bike rentals, free parking, billiards, badminton, volleyball, horseshoes, board games, business center, and fitness center.

It’s a one-stop shop where mom and dad can get pampered and the kids can have

a blast, all in a gorgeous and serene setting that is located in the historic and picturesque town of Genoa, Nevada only 20 miles from Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and just minutes from Reno and other entertainment hot spots for families. Nearby you will find casinos, horseback riding, hot air ballooning, mountain biking, golf, fishing, shopping, boating, galleries, and children’s museums.

Summer temperatures typically range in the 80’s and low 90’s, providing a cool and inviting break from the triple digits so common of the Sacramento Valley.

You may want to book online for the very best and latest specials and discounts that are offered and to plan your stay most conveniently at David Walley’s Hot Springs Resort. http://www.davidwalleysresort.com/

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • AUGUST 2017

Make it yourself!

Ladybug Beanbag Craft

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ere’s a quick craft project to do with the kids. You’ll need basic sewing skills to make this cute ladybug beanbag craft. And of course you can play with the beanbag when you’ve made it!

You will need: Red felt Black felt Black thread Mini black pompoms Dried beans or peas Wiggle eyes Fabric glue

Dolly Peg Dragonfly

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hip up this dolly peg dragonfly in moments and clip it around the classroom or house! Fun for a minibeasts theme, we’ve got a similar dolly peg butterfly too.

Instructions below.

You will need: A wooden clothes peg Green paint White felt Glue

Instructions: Cut one oval of red and one oval the same size of black felt.

Cut out a ‘head” shape from the black felt (using our photo as a guide) and sew it to the red felt oval.

Backstitch a black line down the middle of the red oval.

Bumblebee Pencil Topper

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ind out how kids can make this cute bumblebee pencil topper using just a few craft supplies. It’s a good summer craft, or perhaps for back-to-school or an insect theme?

Who could resist this cute bumblebee pencil topper!

Instructions: Paint the peg green and leave to dry (the easiest way is to peg it to the side of a box.)

Cut a wing shape from felt.

Glue the peg to the wings so it forms the body.

Beaded Butterfly Craft

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ere’s an idea for a very pretty beaded butterfly craft for kids. Adapt them for all ages by changing the thickness of the wire and the size of the beads. Imagine a flurry of these hanging in your window in summer time – so cute! They would also make a gorgeous mobile, or even a little necklace charm if made small enough. Instructions below.

You will need: Large yellow pompom Medium black pompom White felt Black pipe clearer (chenille stem) Wiggle eyes Glue

You will need: Craft wire Beads (we had some nice butterfly ones but any beads are fine) Thread to hang

Instructions: Wrap the pipe cleaner around the yellow pompom. Twist together underneath and then twist the ends into a spiral. This will hold your bee onto your pencil.

Glue the largest black pompom onto the front as the head.

Cut out two wings from the felt and glue them to the bee’s back. Finish off with two wiggle eyes

Instructions: Thread the beads along the craft wire leaving a space free at the ends.

Twist the wire into a butterfly shape, then twist the ends of the wire around to secure and push the loose ends through a bead so they are out of sight. This is quite fiddly so younger children may need adult help.

Tie onto thread to hang your beaded butterfly.

Crafts courtesy of: www.Activity Village.co.uk - Keeping Kids Busy AUGUST 2017 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

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THE BOOK REPORT

Books that Teach—But Don’t Tell Them That!

By Susan L. Roberts

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s school is about to begin, you can start offering your young readers books that will sharpen their mind, while fascinating their heart! This cleverly disguised creative non-fiction collection will engage them in new worlds, while whetting their appetite for learning.

cube was to be chosen, but Ice Boy wanted more. His parents said to never go outside, but he did. His doctor said never go in the sun, but he did anyway. He had a great time exploring the world, but soon he became….Water Boy. A clever story introducing the water cycle, geared for the youngest readers.

Graphically, we see the world from an ice cube’s point of view where ice cream cones, fudgsicles, muffins and ice cream sandwiches decorate or are used for furniture in his home.

In the end, Ice Boy meets back with his parents and Ice Boy takes them on an adventure!

Lexie, the Word Wrangler,

by Rebecca Van Slyke, illustrated by Jessie Hartland (Nancy Paulsen Books, Ages 6-8) Lexie, the Word Wrangler is clever, clever, clever with words! Truly a word lover’s delight.

On the open plains, Lexie wrangles together an ear of corn and a loaf of bread to make some tasty cornbread.

She watches over little baby letters until they grow into bigger words: a, at, cat, cattle. She wrangles a whole passel of words together to make sentences. But one day the d was missing from her bandana and the rain was missing from rainbow and a red bow hung in the sky. A word rustler was loose! “It’s high time to trap this scoundrel,” she said and she waited in a tree determined to stop the rustler. Then, long about sundown, the rustler lassoed the long in longhorn. Lexie jumped into action, lassoing the rustler. Fascinated with words himself, he joined forces with Lexie and helped young’uns learn to hitch words together.

A treasure trove of how words work together.

A Moon of My Own, By Jennifer Rustgi, illustrated by Ashley White (Dawn Publications, Ages 4-8) The childhood belief that ‘the moon is following me’ combines with geographic locations across the globe in a delightful story of a young girl who lovingly speaks to the moon that follows her on her many adventures. She converses with the moon, and shares, “I never tell you where I’m going, but somehow you always find me.”

Readers will want to pull out a globe, map or encyclopedia to identify each location and learn more.

Fortunately, each of the locations is named and introduced in the back matter. Moon facts, Moon Phases and Modeling the Moon are also explored, with references given to other resources. Adults will enjoy this book as much as kids.

Reviewer’s Choice

Ice Boy, by David Ezra Stein (Candlewick Press, Ages 4-8) Ice Boy lives in the freezer with his family. His parents said the best thing that could happen to an ice

Skydiver, Saving the Fastest Bird in the World, by Celia Godkin (Pajama Press, Ages 4-8) A fascinating story about how peregrine falcons were saved from

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distinction. The story opens in the spring when a female and male peregrine falcon lay a clutch of eggs on a rocky cliff.

A woman scales down the cliffs and takes away the eggs and they are raised in a lab. The falcons have a second clutch of eggs and raise their young.

Then the story introduces some of the reasons for the demise of the falcon and what is being done to help them survive. It ends with learning the falcons are often raised in the city, living on high rises, like they once lived on cliffs.

The Skydiving Beavers, A True Tale, by Susan Wood, illustrated by Gysbert van Frankenhuysen (Sleeping Bear Press, Ages 4-8)

A recounting of a true story that happened in 1948 in McCall, Idaho, when, after the war, people and houses were taking over the beaver’s territory. It soon became apparent that beavers and people don’t mix well when dammed water flooded roads and land for food became land for houses. Elmo Heter, with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, decided they needed to move the beavers to some open land many miles away. After many ideas and several practice-parachute jumps with a senior beaver, Elmo had a plan. That fall, they successfully moved a beaver colony to an open area.

Well-written, well-paced out, and written in a friendly voice, Skydiver is a delight to read.

Susan L. Roberts (www.Books4theCuriousChild.com) lives in Sacramento, CA where she reads dozens of picture books each month and reviews the best to help parents and teachers find books that will inspire and develop a child’s curiosity, their dreams, and passion for reading.

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • AUGUST 2017

Let’s Build Christian a Pirate Ship Christian is an energetic and adventurous 10-old-boy who loves to go to Renaissance and Adventure Faires with his family and get involved in the fun. He is also wheelchair bound and has been since of the age of 8. Christian has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a muscle- wasting disease that is fatal.

The average life expectancy for boys with DMD is 21. There is no cure for DMD. He visits UC Davis Medical Center Cancer treatment center often for experimental injections.

A few local “pirates” had the good fortune to meet Christian and see his love of adventure first- hand and have offered to build him a pirate ship he and his family can take on many more adventures.

Pirate Ann Ramirez of Carmichael explained they’ll need a custom hitch for their wheelchair-accessible van and a trailer to take Christian and his pirate ship on his future adventures. “We built a pirate ship for fun and the silly pleasure of making people smile. We want to do the same for Christian. We hope you’ll join us,” she writes on a GoFundMe

page:www.gofundme.com/letsbuild-christian-a-pirate-ship Sink me! Bestow us hand mates and we can bestow this jim lad many more adventures in his very own pirate galleon. That’s pirate talk for, let’s make this happen for Christian!

In an interview with this publication Ramirez said it all started like this: “Once upon a time, we used to go to parades. We’d go to the Carmichael Parade and the Citrus Heights Parade and we had kids and thought, ‘this is boring.’

My husband (Damian Ramirez) came home one day after seeing the Ghandi bumper sticker, ‘Be the change you want to see in the world.’ And, I was like: ‘What is that supposed to mean?’ And he said, ‘Let’s build a float.’”

So, the following year (five years ago), he went to town and built a complicated 18-foot pirate ship on a flatbed modeled after a McDonald’s Happy Meal Captain Hook toy. They brought the float to parades, Race for the Cure, kids parties. But last fall a lady approached them, explaining the

story of her son. “He had seen a little tiny pirate ship for a wheelchair and asked if we could build him one. And we said, ‘yeah, let’s do it.’ He’s a real cute kid.”

The pirate ship in this photograph has made pit stops in the River Park with neighborhood children invited to play. Hostess

Brenda Jew Waters asked Damian Ramirez to bring the ship by on some days when Christian had to do his injections nearby at UCD. Brenda had known the “pirate family” for many years. Damian Ramirez purchased her father-inlaw’s Shop Smith which was used to build this pirate ship.

It’s more fun on the ferry...

Service from Vallejo SF Ferry Building

Pier 41

AT&T Park

Farmers’ Market Exploratorium

PIER 39 Shops & Dining Fisherman’s Wharf

Giants Game Service

For Ferry Route, Schedule, Ticket and Terminal Information www.SanFranciscoBayFerry.com (707) 643-3779

AUGUST 2017 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

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Who wrote that?

KIDLIT CREATORS WHO MAKE KIDS WANT TO READ An interview with Erin Dealey

Who Wrote That? is a monthly column that profiles talented authors and illustrators who are bringing children’s books to life.

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ith back to school on every parent’s mind, Bitsy sat down with the ebullient and talented Erin Dealey, author of the charming new picture book K is for Kindergarten, which officially releases August 15 th (just in time for school!). She’s also written 13 other picture books, most in lyrical rhyme.

Bitsy Kemper: Let’s start with two truths and a lie.

Erin Dealey: I lasted one day working at a pineapple factory in Hawaii.

I sang the “Star Spangled Banner” at a Giants’ game. (ie--a solo--just me and the microphone!)

I worked with director Clint Eastwood on the film, BIRD. [Answer is tucked in, added onto another question, below] BK: You’ve written many books. Why this one, about kindergarten?

ED: Going to kindergarten means you’re BIG. And just about everyone--including parents--experiences a few first-day jitters. If my book helps them zoom through a fabulous year, I’ll be happy.

BK: What challenges were you looking to help with?

ED: In my blog, I asked what challenges parents and kids face, and responses ranged from fear of the first day, idolizing the teacher, loving art more than reading (reading comes later--no worries!), playing with an imaginary friend, to worrying how NOT to get into trouble.

BK: Looks like your book covers all that, and more!

There are “Countdown” and “Challenge” activities on every spread, for kids prepping for school and ones already in it. There’s a lot going here!

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By Bitsy Kemper

ED: This sounds crazy but as a teacher, I’ve always enjoyed coming up with creative, hands-on lesson plans. And I love the idea of parents and family members spending time with their Kinders doing these activities and making memories together. Teachers too! My brilliant editor wanted the book to be relevant all year long, so I added the “Kinder Challenges.”

BK: Do you remember your first day?

ED: I remember watching my big sister go to school and wishing I could go too.

Waiting for my first day of Kindergarten seemed to take forever. And then I ended up skipping half of it.

I guess I’ve always wanted to go back to Kindergarten-one way or another!

BK: What’s special for you about this age?

ED: Where else can you sing songs and do the Alphabet Stretch on author visits?

These days, I go back to kindergarten to read every chance I get.

BK: So, you like learning.

What did you major in college?

ED: I got a BA and Teaching Credential in English and Art at UC Davis. Basically, both sides of my brain got an education. Go Ags! BK: Did you always want to be a writer?

ED: I never thought I’d write books one day--and neither did my teachers. (I have the journals to prove it!)

But it turns out I’ve always thought a bit outside the box. I wrote my sixth-grade autobiography assignment as a biography of me written by my shadow. Thank goodness the teacher accepted it!

From an early age I made family birthday cards, wrote song parodies, and later on--plays and skits for my theater kids to perform. (I taught theater and English, and proudly hold the title of “Drama Mama” at Sugarloaf Fine Arts Camp, in

Erin Dealey

El Dorado County.). Using my imagination and sharing what I’ve created gives me such joy. I have the best job ever.

BK: Any meaningful awards?

ED: My most meaningful “awards” are letters from young readers and conversations I have with students at school visits and when I Skype into a classroom. I’m truly honored when they love my books-- but if I can help kids believe in themselves and their potential--that’s gold.

BK: Where do you get your ideas?

ED: Ideas are everywhere.

(Ask my walking buddies.)

It also helps that part of my brain never really grew up.

[By the way, Giants is the lie!

Did I getcha?]

BK: Any fun fan interactions you can share?

ED: One of my favorites was when two fifth grade boys kept peeking into the library where I was signing books after my author assemblies.

Several minutes later they rushed in and said, “You’re funnier than Will Smith!” and ran away. Priceless!

Bitsy Kemper is author of 16 chldren’s books. You may have seen Bitsy on CNN, heard her on national radio, noticed her quoted in a range of places from Parenting magazine to Writing Children’s Books for Dummies, or seen her work in countless newspapers, radio and TV stations across the U.S of A. Busy with three kids (four if you count her husband), she happily finds time to present at schools and writer conferences from CA to NY. Find out more at www.

Get to know erin dealey

Erin lives in El Dorado County with her husband and a very energetic Golden Retriever named Charlie.

Website: erindealey.com Blog: http://erindealey.com/blog/ Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest: @erindealey Facebook: WRITE NOW! An occasional day in the life of author Erin Dealey https://www.facebook.com/ErinDealeyAuthor/ Favorite quotes: “For those thinking they might want to write a book “someday”--Someday is NOW.” “Your children will be who you are, so be who you want them to be.”

SEE ERIN DEALEY

August 3rd, 5-7pm: Face in a Book, El Dorado Hills August 19TH, 12 noon: Barnes & Noble Birdcage, Citrus Heights August 18th: International Banana Festival/Celebrate Reading Day, Modesto August 19TH, 3pm: Avid Reader, Davis September 16-17TH: ScholarShare Children’s Book Festival, Fairytale Town, Land Park Drive, Sacramento

BOOKS BY ERIN DEALEY

K IS FOR KINDERGARTEN, illustrated by Joseph Cowman, Sleeping Bear Press BABIES COME FROM AIRPORTS, illus Luciana Navarro Powell, Kane Miller/Usborne DECK THE WALLS, illus. Nick Ward, Sleeping Bear Press LITTLE BO PEEP CAN’T GET TO SLEEP, illus. Hanako Wakiyama, Atheneum/Simon & Schuster GOLDIE LOCKS HAS CHICKEN POX, illus. Hanako Wakiyama, Atheneum/Simon & Schuster

Coming in 2018-19:

GRANDPA’S FAVORITE, illus Luciana Navarro Powell, Kane Miller/Usborne GRANDMA’S FAVORITE, illus Luciana Navarro Powell, Kane Miller/Usborne PETER EASTER FROG, illus TBA, Caitlyn Dlouhy Books, Atheneum/Simon & Schuster

BitsyKemper.com

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • AUGUST 2017

Mother-Daughter Team Teach Culture Through Dance

By Laura I. Winn

W

hen the motherdaughter Quilici duo teach dance, they are not just teaching the steps; they are passing on a history and culture to the younger generations.

At the Sacramento Italian Cultural Center in Carmichael, mom Diana teaches the young Bambini dancers (ages 4 to 12) and 18-yearold daughter, Mary, leads the La Danza Teen Dance Group (ages 13 to 18). Both groups, along with the adult Baliamo! Dancers will entertain at the 32nd annual Festa Italiana! on August 5 and 6 at the The Croatian Center Grounds at 3730 Auburn Boulevard.

Festa Italiana!, an event filled with music, dance, food and gifts, gives the young dancers a chance to share their proud heritage with the community. That pride is especially important for Diana, who grew up in an Italian-speaking household but felt a cultural void in her own generation and worries about the ways in which children see Italians portrayed in Hollywood – the gangsters and “not too bright” characters on screen.

“It’s important to know not only where you’re going, but also where you came from,” she says.

For Diana, who has trained in multiple styles of dance since age 4 and is a dentist at the VA Hospital by day, teaching children Italian dance is one way to negate those negative stereotypes and pass down knowledge of a rich history that includes

the Renaissance and the Resistance. The dances she teaches tell stories through music and movement.

The actions of the antifascist resistance movement of World War II are represented by the steps in “Bella Ciao,” a teen dance both Diana and Mary list as a favorite. Then there’s “La Raspa,” “La Pizzica” and “Carnevale,” dances Diana describes as “community dances” because everyone joins in, in some cases building bridges with their arms, exchanging hands and partners.

And to connect with current Italian culture, at each Festa, the children dance to a modern hit – a song by one of the latest Italian pop stars.

“We have Katy Perry; they have Baby K. We have Justin Bieber; they have Fedez,” Diana explains.

The children and teens also perform these dances at Giants games, the California State Fair and at charity events. Practicing monthly throughout the school year and more frequently in the summer bonds the dancers and creates “a little family,” according to Julie Passadore, mom to three Bambinis.

Mary Quilici agrees. “Italian dance is so much more than you think it would be.

We’re a community. We have a family here.” Mary, who recently graduated from St. Francis, also shares that family with her school friends. “I just brought them here, and to be surrounded by community, such funny and amazing people, they

saw how fun it is and wanted to join,” she explains.

Just like her mom, Mary has also been dancing since age 4 and has trained in many disciplines. As a teacher, she’s especially proud of the progress her students make. “Seeing someone go from basic steps and not knowing what foot to start with to getting better and better … It’s a journey I just love so much,” she says.

Mary, who serves at the current Festa Queen, a title and higher education scholarship bestowed upon her by the Italian Cultural Society for penning a winning essay, adds that anyone interested in Italian dance should come by the Cultural Center in Carmichael or visit Festa Italiana! “What we have here is so unique to witness, just come come and watch.

You’ll be amazed by it!”

RESERVE YOUR SPACE

Festa Queen Mary Quilici and Bambini Dancers at the Italian Cultural Center

Festa Italiana! runs Saturday, August 5 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday, August 6 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission is $12 with free parking. Children under 15 are free. More information is available at festaitalianasac.com. For more information on Bambini and La Danza, contact Diana Quilici at bellachicca44@yahoo.com.

K O H L’ S B U C K L E U P T O G R O W U P

Safety is Best! Wear your vest, every time you swim.

A properly fitting life jacket will help your kids float safety through the summer. For more information, call 916-734-9798.

CALL (916) 429-9901 TODAY! AUGUST 2017 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

b u c k l e u p . u c d a v i s . e d u • w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / b u c k l e u p 2 g r o w u p

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The Sacramento Youth Band celebrates 60 years Story and photo by Monica Stark

editor@valcomnews.com

A

s we celebrate the birth of our nation, The Sacramento Youth Band played the traditional patriotic standards on Saturday, July 1 on the lawn at Parkside Community Church as the nonprofit organization itself hits a milestone -- 60 years in the community providing music education to hundreds of students.

The nonprofit consists of a concert band, a marching band and three jazz bands and a junior band. Since 1957, the

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Sacramento Youth Band has been educating and inspiring young musicians, providing them with a place to meet new friends, expand their musical abilities, and travel to exciting places like Disneyland, San Francisco, Santa Cruz, Santa Barbara and Discovery Kingdom. Recently, the youth band sponsored an elementary school outreach program at Genevieve Didion K-8 School and at Pony Express and Caroline Wenzel elementary schools.

Cooking up about 100 hot dogs at the Saturday evening event, volunteer Kevin Doohan said he and his family have been helping out at the

fireworks booth, which has been located there on the corner of South Land Park Drive and 35th Avenue. His soon-to-be step daughter, Olivia Duffek, carries the band’s banner around at various events and his daughter Kayleigh Doohan, 9, hopes to join the band playing drums when she’s a little older.

On and off for the last 25 years as the nonprofit’s president, Mike Duffek said he started in the youth band when he was 13 years old, 44 years ago. As cuts to the arts continue in the traditional school setting, he said the outreach program has become an important niche for

the nonprofit. “We have an outlet,” Mike Duffek said.

And especially in the summer when many music students put down their instruments, the youth band provides extra re-enforcement. “We’re busy in the summer,” he said, adding that students come back to school in the fall three months ahead of everyone else.

Attendee Nicole Welch played baritone and tenor saxophone with the band in the 1980s, and on Saturday, brought her 8-year-old daughter Natalie for some musical inspiration. “She really likes music a lot. For her second grade career day, she said she wanted to be a college music teacher without even knowing how to play music. So, I think that means she has a love for music.” Welch played music through high school and beyond. Raised in a private school setting where the

music program was smaller than other schools, Nicole said the Sacramento Youth Band filled that void for her.

“For me, I went to a private school; we didn’t have a real big music program, so this was a really great way in getting involved with music and this was a real big part of my life. I was in the jazz band, concert band, and then I went to John F. Kennedy, so I made a lot of friends in this band that I wound up going to high school with.”

Daughter Natalie just may be a member of the next generation of musicians that make up the widely successful Sacramento Youth Band.

Nicole to her daughter: “You might have to learn how to read music before we start teaching it.”

For those who are interested in learning more about the Sacramento Youth Band, check out http://syb.myevent.com

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • AUGUST 2017

Young Actors Stage presents

Miss Saigon Student Edition July 28-August 6

By Clint Swett

E

xperience the epic love story of our time as the award-winning musical theater group Young Actors Stage performs the smash Broadway musical Miss Saigon School Edition in 10 performances July 28-August 6 at the 24th Street Theatre in Curtis Park. Miss Saigon is the second massively successful offering from the creators of Les Misérables: ClaudeMichel Schonberg and Alain Boublil.

Set in the tumultuous, waning days of the Vietnam war, Miss Saigon tells the story of, Kim, a 17-year-old bar maid, who meets and falls in love with Chris, an American GI. The musical follows Kim’s tortured three-year journey to find Chris, who has no idea he has fathered a child.

The cast is led by Alexi Ishida as Kim, who earned raves for her portrayal of Eponine in last summer’s Young Actors Stage production of Les Miserables. Chris is played by Alex Greenlee, who won an Elly Award for leading male in his role as Jean Valjean in the same Les Miserables production.

That production won seven Elly Awards, which honor outstanding achievement in regional theatre in the Sacramento area.

Ishida, 19, studies drama at UC Irvine and has had featured roles in numerous

musicals including White Christmas and Bye Bye Birdie. She was a finalist for the $15,000 Beach Blanket Babylon vocal scholarship in 2016 as well as a finalist at American Idol auditions at Disney World in Orlando, FL. She is also performing in this summer’s Music Circus production of Sister Act. She can be seen performing “On My Own” from Les Miz on Good Day Sacramento here.

Greenlee, 19, who studies filmmaking at Chapman College, is known for his expressive acting and extraordinary vocal range, and has been performing and making films since age 5. An award-winning tap dancer, he earned a National Young Arts Award in 2016. His stage credits include The Me Nobody Knows (Broadway), Sound of Music, Camelot, Legally Blonde, and Catch Me If You Can. He can be seen singing “Bring Him Home” from the 2016 production of Les Miz here.

Other teenage cast members, all with extensive musical theatre experience, include Yahmonee Hendrick as the Engineer; Milan Williams as Ellen; Mitch Worrell-Olson as John; Jimin Moon as Thuy, Madeline Perez as Gigi.

Now in its 9th season, Young Actors Stage is open to performers ages 6 through young adult, and allows children to experience all

aspects of musical theatre, from singing and dancing to costume design and set construction.

Young Actors Stage was founded by Liorah Singerman, a Pocket neighborhood resident, and her mother, Ann Singerman, a former Sacramento public school teacher. Liorah Singerman is the group’s artistic director, and Ann Singerman its educational director.

“I am in awe of the talent of our cast members, many of whom are within reach of professional careers,” Singerman said. “We have several kids coming back from college theater programs to do this production.

Every member of this cast is top notch. I feel so lucky to have the chance to work with them, and bring them all together for this incredible show.”

Schedule and tickets for Miss Saigon are available at youngactorsstage.com Friday, July 28, 8pm Saturday, July 29, 2pm Saturday, July 29, 8pm Sunday, July 30, 2pm Tuesday, August 1, 7pm Wednesday, August 2, 7pm Thursday, August 3, 7pm Saturday, August 5, 2pm Saturday, August 5, 8pm Sunday, August 6, 4pm

Do you have redness, watering, or irritation of the eye?

You may have adenoviral or bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye).

The Synchronize research studies are being conducted in our area to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a non-antibiotic investigational drug targeting the two main causes of pink eye.

Adults and children of any age may be able to take part.

You and/or your child may be able to participate if you (or they): • have had pink eye symptoms (e.g. redness, watering/discharge, or irritation) in at least one eye for no more than the past 3 days • are interested in taking part in a research study for up to 13 days • are willing to travel to the study center for appointments.

Qualified participants may receive the non-antibiotic investigational drug and study-related procedures and visits at no cost.

Health insurance is not required to participate.

To find out more, and to see if you qualify, call:

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1-877-535-4573

AUGUST 2017 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

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What’s Happening, Kids! a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 5. Tickets available at saczoo.org or by calling 916-808-5888.

TUESDAY, AUG. 1 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT 2017: Local police department are inviting all members of the community to celebrate National Night Out. National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, better places to live. Neighbors participate across thousands of communities from all 50 states, United States territories, Canadian cities, and military bases worldwide.

SATURDAY, AUG. 5 HORSING AROUND: The Old City Cemetery Committee presents a history tour on Sacramento’s horse history, starting at 10 a.m. at Sacramento Historic City Cemetery, 1000 Broadway, Sacramento. Forget gold, horses really built this country! The pioneer economy was dependent on horses for industry, travel, communication, and often for their very lives. Meet ranchers, wagon makers, blacksmiths, and horseshoers galore, and our very own Pony Express rider, Warren Upson. Come see the horses of the modern Pony Express! The cemetery is located at 1000 Broadway, Sacramento. There is free parking on surrounding streets. Tours are free; however, donations are appreciated and benefit cemetery preservation. For more information, call 916-448-0811.

BELLE COOLEDGE LIBRARY POPUP BOOK SALE – Featuring books for all ages. Support your local library and pick up some great reads! The sale is held at the entrance to the library and the Friends Bookstore will be open during regular hours. August 1, from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Belle Cooledge Library, 5600 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento.

JACQUELINE ROBBINS/HARMONY HENNA – The Belle Cooledge Library will be offering some Henna fun where you can get a small Henna design done by Jackie, a qualified henna artist! August 5 at 2 p.m. at Belle Cooledge Library, 5600 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento.

FRIDAY, AUG. 4 DIVE-IN MOVIE NIGHT FEATURING MOANA: The West Sacramento Recreation Center presents Moana poolside at sundown. Bring a blanket to sit by the pool or your swimsuit to take a dip.

Swimming will continue through the end of the movie, approximately by 10 p.m.

Non-swimmers and children under 48 inches must be within arm’s reach of an adult at all times. $7 for recreation card holders, $10 for non-pass holders, $2 off presale by the day before the movie; ages 4 and under are free. Pool deck opens at 8:15 p.m. Online registration highly recommended. https://www.activityreg.com/ selectactivity_t1.wcs 2801 Jefferson Blvd.

THE PAPER AIRPLANE GUY – John Collins, the Guinness World Record holder for the longest distance paper airplane, will tells folks at the Ella K. McClatchy Library about the variety of aerodynamic principles of paper airplanes, and will then teach folks how to make their own super long-distance paper airplanes!

School Age. Saturday, August 5 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Ella K. McClatchy Library, 2112 22nd St., Sacramento.

FAMILY OVERNIGHT AT THE SACRAMENTO ZOO: Fun-filled educational evening including a tour of what the nighttime Zoo has to offer, 5:30 pm to 9

FUN ON THE FARM: BEES, BUTTERFLIES AND BUGS: Soil Born Farms, 2140 Chase Drive, Rancho Cor-

dova, will spend the morning learning about all of the wonderful little critters that live on the farm and how they help us. Kids will explore the Youth Garden and the American River Ranch and have the opportunity to engage in various fun, educational activities. Participants will make a farm fresh snack, meet the farm animals and create something to take home. Suggested ages 3-9. Time: 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, visit www.brownpapertickets.com; Price: $15; Instructor: Alyssa Kassner, Soil Born Farms. For more information and to register, visit www.soilborn.org or call (916) 363-9685.

LATINA MINISTRY SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL: Music, bounce house, food, family and friends. For sale: Quesadillas, Tijuana bacon-wrapped hot dogs, pozole, fresh fruit, nachos, Horchata, ice cream and water. 4 to 7 p.m. at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 1500 Park Blvd., West Sacramento. For more information, call 371-5875.

SATURDAY, AUG. 5 to SUNDAY, AUG. 6 HOLY CROSS FESTIVAL: Festival starts Saturday at noon with entertainment by Midnight Players at 5 p.m. and ending at 9 p.m. and closing at 10 p.m.

Sunday Festival starts at noon with entertainment by Grupo Musical Valle De Santiago starting at 3 p.m. and ending at 7 p.m. Food, drinks, games and prizes. 1321 Anna St.

THURSDAY, AUG. 10 FARMERS MARKET AT THE BARN: The West Sacramento Chamber of Commerce presents the 2017 market season at The Barn! The 2017 market season will be on the second Thursday in the month in June, July, August. It will be a fun-filled commu-

nity event which will feature our local farmers, makers, music, food, beer, kids zone, and activities for adults, too! Stop by to grab fresh produce, see your neighbors, enjoy dinner, relax on the river, and celebrate the beautiful bounty of West Sacramento. Free event! Family friendly! Food! Music!

Beer! Please note: There is no ATM on site. Some site areas of the BARN site activation are gravel surfaces.

Direct accommodation is available for visitors upon request at the info booth. If you would like to participate in the market as a farmer, marker, sponsor, or food truck, please call the Chamber at (916) 371-7042 x 102.

FRIDAY, AUG. 11 BACK TO SCHOOL HEALTH FAIR: Yolo County Children's Alliance is excited to announce the second annual Back to School Health Fair! This event will be held at the Family Resource Center, 637 Todhunter Ave, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The focus of the event is to provide West Sacramento youth with school supplies and to equip families with valuable local resources. Youth grades K-12 will be receiving backpacks courtesy of Yolo County Backpacks for Kids and there will be a bike raffle! Free!

KENN ADAMS’ ADVENTURE THEATER – An adventure in space will be had at McKinley Library with this interactive theatrical show!

With Kenn Adams’ Adventure Theater, the audience is the star of the show, making sound effects, performing the roles, acting as scenery, and even deciding what comes next.

School Age. Friday, Aug. 11 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at McKinley Library, 601 Alhambra Blvd., Sacramento.

READING BY DESIGN: FLOATS AND FUN – Celebrate Summer Reading success with free root beer floats, generously provided by the Friends of the Southgate Library! Friday, August 11 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Southgate Library, 6132 66th Ave., Sacramento.

SATURDAY, AUG. 12 MUSICAL ROBOT – Belle Cooledge Library will host Musical Robot as the group will get parents and kids laughing with "If You are a Robot and You Know It," an interactive musical and storytelling performance. August 12 at 2 p.m. at Belle Cooledge Library, 5600 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento.

LEGO MANIA! – Like building with LEGOs? The Ella K. McClatchy Library will provide their monthly LEGO free-play afternoon! LEGOs and DUPLO LEGOs will be provided. Family/All Ages. Saturday, August 12 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Ella K. McClatchy Library, 2112 22nd St., Sacramento.

SUNDAY, AUG. 13 DISABILITY AWARENESS NIGHT AT THE RIVER CATS: The Washington Unified School District Special Services Department is hosting a Disability Awareness Night at the River Cats game on Sunday, August 13, 2017. This is a family-friendly event open to all members of the community. Please contact Lise Busch in the Special Services Department at lbusch@wusd.k12.ca.us or (916) 375-7600 ext. 1350 for additional information.

TUESDAY, AUG. 15 ICE CREAM SOCIAL WITH ANDY AMYX – Come celebrate the end of summer reading with us at our annual ice

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CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • AUGUST 2017

What’s Happening, Kids! cream social. Start the evening with face painting and free ice cream for everyone!

Then stay for a spectacular magic show with Andy Amyx. He will astound and entertain us with amazing illusions, card and coin tricks, audience participation, humor, and birds! Family/ All Ages. Tuesday, August 15 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at McKinley Library, 601 Alhambra Blvd, Sacramento.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 16 ICE CREAM SOCIAL WITH THE GREAT SCOT – Come celebrate the end of Summer Reading with at the annual ice cream social at Ella K. McClatchy Library. Start the evening off by enjoying a magic show by The Great Scot, who will astound and entertain us with amazing illusions, magic tricks, audience participation, and humor! Then stay to socialize and enjoy free ice cream for everyone out on the patio. Wednesday, August 16 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Ella K. McClatchy Library, 2112 22nd St., Sacramento.

FRIDAY, AUG. 18 FRIDAY FAMILY FLICKS, FUN FOR ALL AGES – This month Southgate Library will be showing the new movie “Beauty and the Beast”. Free popcorn will be provided. Friday, August 18 from 3:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. at Southgate Library, 6132 66th Ave., Sacramento.

SATURDAY, AUG. 19 SOUTHGATE SLEUTHS: A MYSTERIOUS, SECRETIVE BOOK CLUB – Shhhhh - don't tell your friends! There's a mystery book club at Southgate. Read the selected title ahead of time and join the Southgate Sleuths in discussions of Who, What, When, Where, and WHY! A new book club for adults at Southgate.

Saturday, Aug. 19 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Southgate Library, 6132 66th Ave., Sacramento.

FRIDAY, AUG. 25 OUTDOOR SUMMER MOVIE AT THE RIZAL CENTER – In partnership with the Southgate Recreation and Parks District, enjoy the summer night with an outdoor movie on the back stage of the Rizal Community Center located at 7320 Florin Mall Drive, Sacramento. On Friday, Aug. 25 at 7:30 p.m. we will be showing “Nine Lives”.

Southgate Library, 6132 66th Ave., Sacramento.

SUNDAY, AUG. 27 BAT HOUSE BUILDING WORKSHOP: In conjunction with International Bat Night, this will be a day to learn about inviting bats to your yard or farm. A fun activity for small groups or families! This will include an opportunity to build a bat house and a live viewing of several of our native species of bats. Supplies and instruction provided; you supply the people power. Registration is by bat house. 10 a.m. to noon; $40/bat house; yolobasin.z2systems.com/np/ clients/yolobasin/eventRegistration. jsp?event=3845&

SUNDAY, AUG. 27 CURTIS FEST ARTISAN FESTIVAL IN THE PARK, followed by Music in the Park: The 10th Annual Curtis Fest will feature over 60 local

artisans under the beautiful canopy of trees at Curtis Park. Artists include painters, sculptors, textile artists, and wood workers. Live music, food trucks, a petting zoo, children’s fairy and a pet refreshment station makes this a great way to finish out the summer. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., William Curtis Park, Sutterville Road and Curtis Drive, Sacramento. Then, from 6 to 8 p.m. a concert will conclude the 2017 Music in the Park series with a performance by On Air. The band’s powerfully popular horn section and energetic choreography will follow a day of art and food at the 10th annual Curtis Fest. On Air is known for its pulsating renditions of the classics from Tower of Power, Chicago, The Doobie Brothers and Steely Dan. Local children’s favorite, Mr. Cooper, will get the evening started and entertain the young at heart in between sets. Music in the Park is a free summer concert series hosted by Sierra Curtis Neighborhood Association in William Curtis Park. This is a great way to relax with your family, friends and neighbors. With a blanket and picnic basket you can enjoy the music in a wonderful outdoor venue.

ONGOING READ OFF YOUR LIBRARY FINES: Now through Aug. 19: This year the Read Off Your Fines campaign will be held in conjunction with the Summer Reading Program at Yolo County’s Arthur F. Turner Community Library, located at 1212 Merkley Avenue in West Sacramento. Participants will be able to deduct $1 from their fines for every 15 minutes spent reading a book of their choice in the library and also use those minutes toward earning incentives in the Summer Reading Program.

LUNCH AT THE LIBRARY: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 12:00 p.m. Children (ages 6-12) are invited to come out and enjoy a FREE lunch at the library. After lunch fun, educational activities will be provided. Pre-registration is required. Yolo County’s Arthur F. Turner Community Library, located at 1212 Merkley Avenue in West Sacramento.

OFF THE GRID FOOD TRUCK EVENT: Every Thursday evening, Off the Grid is hosting a weekly food truck and music event from 5-9pm. Mark your calendars for this fun, family-friendly event on 15th Ave near Land Park Drive!

Visit https://offthegrid.com/events/ for vendor details. Corner of 15th Ave. and Land Park Drive.

LAND PARK VOLUNTEER CORPS WORK DAYS: Help the corps with various work projects in William Land Park after a very wet winter.. First Saturdays of the month from 9 a.m. to noon. Meet at the Base Camp located in the picnic grounds directly behind Fairytale Town.

FAMILY FRIDAYS AT BELLE COOLEDGE LIBRARY: Spend some family time together this summer at the library with Family Fridays! Each Friday, in the Community Room there will be board games, cards, Wii gaming, arts and crafts, toddler toys, and a

AUGUST 2017 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

reading nook! This is a Summer Reading Challenge: Read by Design event each Friday from 3 to 5 p.m., 5600 South Land Park Drive.

POP-UP BOOK SALE AT BELLE COOLEDGE LIBRARY: Every first Tuesday of the month from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., the book sale features books for all ages. Support your local library and pick up some great reads! All proceeds from the sale benefit library programs.

The Friends Bookstore will be open regular hours. The sale is held at the entrance to the library. 5600 South Land Park Drive SUNDAY BREAKFAST BUFFET AT THE ELKS LODGE, NO. 6: From 8:30 to 11 a.m., enjoy eggs, omelets, corn beef hash, bacon or sausage. 6446 Riverside Blvd.

BABY STORYTIME AT BELLE COOLEDGE LIBRARY –Nursery rhymes, fingerplays, simple stories, and songs designed to encourage a range of early literacy skills. For children up to about 18 months old. Each child must be accompanied by a participating adult. Tuesdays at 12:30 p.m. at Belle Cooledge Library, 5600 South Land Park Drive.

TODDLER STORYTIME BELLE COOLEDGE LIBRARY– Toddlers ages one to three and their caregivers will enjoy fun songs, stories, and fingerplays. After the storytime, there will be a stay and play group. Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. at Belle Cooledge Library, 5600 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento.

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT BELLE COOLEDGE LIBRARY – Preschoolers ages three and older and their caregivers are invited for fun songs, stories, fingerplays and a play activity. Thursdays at 11 a.m. at Belle Cooledge Library, 5600 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento.

HOMEWORK ZONE AT BELLE COOLEDGE LIBRARY– Teen and adult volunteer homework coaches will be available to assist students in grades K-8 with homework assignments. Please note: Homework Zone ends on June 8, 2016. Space is available with coaches on a first-come, first-served basis. Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Belle Cooledge Library, 5600 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento.

BELLE COOLEDGE LIBRARY PRESENTS SING ALONG WITH MISTER COOPER – Join neighborhood favorite Mister Cooper for 30 minutes of music time and freeze dancing for families.

Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Belle Cooledge Library, 5600 South Land Park Drive.

FAMILY STORYTIME AT ELLA K. MCCLATCHY LIBRARY – Every Tuesday at 10 a.m. for books, songs, stories and fun. Miss Lindsey and her guitar always make this storytime a fun event. Everyone is welcome to stay for our STEAM stay and play activity of the day. Recommended for ages 0-5.

Every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

at Ella K. McClatchy Library, 2112 22nd St., Sacramento.

BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME -Babies and toddlers (ages 0 to 3 years) and their caretakers are invited to join us for songs and rhymes. Arrive early or stay late for extra social time with other children and parents. Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 11 a.m. to 11:20 a.m. at Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library, 7335 Gloria Drive, Sacramento.

COMMUNITY DAY AT THE SACRAMENTO ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND: All ages are invited for a day of play at the Sacramento Adventure Playground! Children get to create their own play structures and spaces by re-purposing everyday items such as cardboard boxes, plus household wares, natural elements and unexpected items. The Playground is a fun and safe environment where children can use their imagination and creativity to direct their own play!

Community Days also feature special activities and craft projects. Families are requested to wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get messy. The event will take place rain or shine. Admission to the Sacramento Adventure Playground is free. Featured activities include: Box forts, mud play and slide, sand play, bike riding (bring your bike and helmet!), craft projects, bubbles, painting. While the Sacramento Adventure Playground’s regular operating hours are designed for ages 7-15, the Playground opens up for children of all ages to come and play on Community Days. Advance registration is not required. Community Days are held on the second Saturday of the month (except December and January) from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 3301 37th Ave.

NATURE EXPLORERS AT THE SACRAMENTO ZOO: The Sacramento Zoo and the Sacramento Library in an open play environment, the last Saturday of the month anytime between 10 am to 2 pm. Near the playground, there will be storytime, playing, and exploring the wonders of the natural world with a new topic each month. For more information, call 808-5888; 3930 West Land Park Drive.

WELLS FARGO WEDNESDAY AT THE SACRAMENTO ZOO: Thanks to Wells Fargo, the first Wednesday of each month in 2017 is Wells Fargo Wednesday.

Up to four children ages 2-11 receive free admission to the Sacramento Zoo with a paid adult.

Do you have an upcoming or monthly event?

Let us know. e-mail Monica:

editor@valcomnews.com

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