Pocket News

March 8, 2019 | www.valcomnews.com

Poc k e t News — BRINGING YOU COMMUNITY NEWS FOR 28 YEARS —

Ohana Dance Group to hold open house, fun cultural activities for the family

see page 3

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Sacramento council member proposes temporary housing for homeless at Florin light rail station

By Margherita Beale Hoping to move about 300 homeless individuals per year a step closer to permanent housing, Sacramento City Councilmember Jay Schenirer recently proposed a twoyear homeless shelter in the northwest corner of the Florin light rail station parking lot in Sacramento.

The proposal is a response to Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg’s challenge to all eight city council members to find sites for 100-bed homeless shelters in each of their districts. According to Schenirer, the initiative’s budget is somewhere in the $37 million to $40 million range, made up of a combination of city funds, state money and private dollars.

“I think that it’s a really critical issue for the city and we need to deal with it and take leadership,” said Schenirer. “If we can be successful, it will be worth it.”

The south Sacramento lot is owned by Sacramento Regional Transit. The lot was purchased when the end of

the light rail line was Florin, with around 1000 parking spaces to accommodate the originally anticipated traffic.

Since the light rail expanded to Meadowview and Cosumnes, the parking lot is no longer crowded. Schenirer said that on any given day, only about 100 spaces are used.

Only two of the space’s 21 acres would be used to erect the proposed “Sprung” structure, a tent-like, fabric building that can be built in a matter of weeks. Sprung structures have been used in places like San Diego, where the Alpha Project’s Temporary Bridge Shelter houses 325 people at a time.

Bob Erlenbusch, executive director of the Sacramento Regional Coalition to End Homelessness, said he welcomes the mayor’s challenge and is glad Schenirer has stepped up, adding that he hopes other council members will do the same.

“I think there’s a total of five who have stepped up but he’s been the most aggressive about it,” Erlenbusch said.

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Pocket News is published on the first and third Fridays of the month in the area bounded by Interstate 5 on the east and the Sacramento River on the north, west, and south.

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“Over 17 years, we’ve lost 900 people experiencing homelessness so we should do everything we can to help lower the number of people who are dying in the streets of our community.”

In order for the shelter to be built, Sacramento’s RT board — which Schenirer sits on — will have to approve the proposed 30-month lease. After that, city council will have their chance to pass the proposal.

According to Schenirer, most of the concerns raised by the board about the shelter center around safety and security.

Schenirer said he and his staff have looked at 24hour security, a fence to enclose the area and operating hours which would limit coming and going during the evenings.

Further concern stems from the location’s proximity to Luther Burbank High School, half a mile away from the Florin light rail station.

Koriem Muhammad, a 17-year-old Meadowview resident and junior at the high school, said the shelter would make for a big improvement.

“One time over at school, me and my friends were just screwing around bright and early in the morning and we saw this homeless guy just walk into the bathroom.

And it was just weird,” said Muhammad. “I think just getting them away from the school in general will be a good idea.”

In theory, the shelter would do just that. With a focus on welcoming homeless individuals who are see Homeless page 9 Valley Community Newspapers, Inc.

Ohana Dance Group to hold open house, fun cultural activities for the family

By Monica Stark editor@valcomnews.com

Ohana Dance Group, a local hula halau (school) that performs at many events in the community, will open their doors to the community to share the Hawaiian culture on Saturday, March 30 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. They will be sharing the Hawaiian culture with activities, demonstrations, basic dance steps, crafts and more.This is a free opportunity for community members to see an activity that is presently available in the South Land Park area. Ohana will also have Hawaiian crafts available for purchase. This is a free event and all ages welcome. Ohana is located at 6325 Belleau Wood Lane Suite 1B. The open house will provide free activities for children and adults, including arts, exhibitions of dance, participation in basic dance steps, exposure to music implements and stories of Hawaii. There will be raffles, drawings, and light refreshments. Gourd art work will Valley Community Newspapers, Inc.

be available for sale. Hula demonstrations will consist of both kahiko (ancient, chanted with traditional implements) and `auana (modern, with recorded music) hula.

“Since hula is a form of communication, we will explain what the dances are about so attendees can appreciate the fuller meaning of the dances. We encourage the community to stop by and have some fun with us,” says Ohana’s Kumu Hula (teacher)

Pat Ke`alaanuheaokalaua`e Toyama.

When Ohana first began in 2003, the focus was learning modern hula, and since then, they have expanded their repertoire to include a large number of hula kahiko, or traditional/ancient hula, as well as `oli, or chants. Ohana has have included implement-making, `ukulele classes, and exposure to various Polynesian dances.

“Our approach is a bit more serious than when we

first began, because we delve to preserve the Native Hamore deeply into the culture waiian culture through hula and traditions of the past. We and its traditions, and to enrecognize our role in helping see Ohana page 14

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2nd annual Pride of the Pocket awards ceremony to be held May 30

By Devin Lavelle

We at the Pocket Greenhaven Community Asso-

ciation love our neighbor- does not happen accidental- tributed so much to mak- file ways, others more subhood and we know that you ly. There are so many people ing our community what it tly, in ways that we only nodo too! We all know that and groups who have con- is today. Some in high pro- tice the results.

We will be holding the second annual Pride of the Pocket awards ceremony on May 30th. We hope you will join us for this fun, free celebration of the people and groups that make our community such a wonderful place to live, work and play.

But we also need your help to identify the neighbors and local groups deserving recognition for their contributions to our wonderful community! A teacher, a volunteer, a librarian, a business owner, a police officer, a community organization? Who goes above and beyond to make our community better?

Please take some time to really think about this, because we cannot do it with the input from our community. Nominations can be submitted at http:// w w w.p o cke tg re e n h ave n . org/pride-of-the-pocket/.

(You can also get your free tickets there and sign up to compete in the bake-off !)

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Last year’s winners were: Outstanding Service to Youth: Greenhaven Soccer Outstanding Contribution, Inclusion: 4th of July Parade Outstanding Contribution, Beautification: Lynn Robie Outstanding Youth: Allie Lee Outstanding Educator: Jacquie Skinner And recognized by our local elected officials: Senator Pan: Joe and Jan Matisco Supervisor Kennedy: Kathi Windheim Councilman Jennings: Beth Koster Trustee Woo: Norm Policar Who do you think should join them this year?

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Mayor addresses homelessness, economic development He also praises the Pocket as a ‘wonderful place to live’

By LANCE ARMSTRONG

Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg last week shared his views on homelessness and economic development.

The mayor discussed these issues with the Pocket News in his office at City Hall on Feb. 27.

Steinberg, a longtime Pocket resident, commented on recently being appointed

by Gov. Gavin Newsom to lead the new state commission on California’s homeless crisis.

“I served in the legislature for 14 years and (co-) authored California’s Mental Health Services Act – Prop. 63 (a 1 percent sales tax on personal incomes exceeding $1 million) – so the governor has asked me if I would lead a task force on addressing the state homeless problem,” he said.

“Despite the fact that I’m busy, I’m not too busy to take on the statewide leadership, especially around an issue that is so important to the quality of life in our state, including Sacramento.”

While Steinberg was making that statement, about 50 homeless people with tents, sleeping bags and other essentials were camped in front of City Hall, five floors below his office.

Steinberg stated that he “knows what works” in approaching the homeless issue.

“For the chronically homeless, it’s a sort of consistent outreach,” he said. “It is low-barrier triage shelters like the kind we have successfully demonstrated on Railroad Avenue (in the north section of the city).

It’s permanent supportive housing, it’s mental health and substance abuse services, and then it’s prevention and early intervention. People that are housed need to Photo by Lance Armstrong stay housed.”

Mayor Darrell Steinberg sits at his desk at City Hall following his Feb. 27 interview with the Pocket News.

The mayor added that Sacramento has already The mayor referred to much excitement, so many being a public health and a helped hundreds of people Sacramento’s homeless cri- things going on, and yet we public safety problem.” get off the streets. sis as the “single biggest deal with this very signifsee Mayor page 11 threat to our quality of icant challenge (of homelife.” lessness),” he said. “It’s a “We are such a grow- challenge to our conscious, ing, thriving city (with) so really, in addition to really

Steinberg praises the Pocket During his Feb. 27 interview with the Pocket News, Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg recalled moving to the Pocket 20 years ago.

“I had just won the Assembly primary and knew that I was going to have the privilege of representing a broader district than my City Council District (6) in southeast Sacramento,” he said. “And so, with a young family – a 3-year-old and a 1-year-old – we were looking for a bigger house and looked all over and (settled in the Pocket).”

Valley Community Newspapers, Inc.

Steinberg added that he discovered his home while precinct walking.

The mayor noted that he was attracted to the quality features of this neighborhood.

“I was drawn (to the Pocket), because it was a great neighborhood, absolutely,” he said. “I think it’s a wonderful place to live and it’s close enough to the city core to get downtown relatively quickly.

“They have some good eateries, you’ve got the bike trail,

and you have so much. And the housing stock is a little bit younger. So, it was a great place to raise our kids.”

Steinberg mentioned that his favorite place to visit in the Pocket area is Nugget Market on Florin Road.

“It’s kind of a running joke around town here a little bit,” he said. “It’s where I hold informal office hours every weekend, even if I don’t mean to hold office hours. I run into my constituents and have many great conversations at the Nugget.” www.valcomnews.com • March 8, 2019 • Pocket News

5

Train advocates continue fight to protect train tracks on Del Rio Trail site

By LANCE ARMSTRONG

Photo courtesy of SLPNA

This map shows the location of the proposed Del Rio Trail.

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Pocket News • March 8, 2019 • www.valcomnews.com

With the Sacramento City Council’s upcoming review of the final Environmental Impact Report and vote on the proposed Del Rio Trail set for March 12, train advocates are prepared to continue their fight to prevent the removal of portions of a historic railroad along that project site.

The city’s proposed, 4.8mile, inner-city trail would run south through the Land Park, South Land Park, Freeport Manor, Z’Berg, Pocket and Meadowview neighborhoods, between Interstate 5 and Freeport Boulevard.

The purpose of the trail would be to provide a convenient thoroughfare for cyclists, pedestrians, joggers and dog walkers to travel to parks, retail centers, schools and jobs.

Its creation also supports the city’s goal to increase possibilities for Sacramentans to be more active and healthy, while protecting the environment.

The trail would allow for alternative transportation outside of driving on freeways and boulevards.

Included among the plans for the trail project is the removal of segments of the historic Sacramento Southern Railroad’s Walnut Grove Branch Line.

Historically, this railroad operated in the area of the present day, proposed trail, and altogether extended about 33 miles from Old Sacramento to the town of Isleton. That line began its operation in 1909. It was extended to Isleton in 1929, and was abandoned entirely in 1978.

The existing tracks along the proposed trail are not currently suitable for train use. The mostly intact tracks include sections that have been paved over and damaged, and in other cases removed.

At one point along the site, near Del Rio Road and Normandy Lane, a steel, railroad rail protrudes above the ground.

California State Parks currently runs an excursion train along the old Sacramento Southern route from Old Sacramento to just north of Sutterville Road.

A proposal to have excursions depart from near the town of Freeport to the town of Hood is part of the approved Old Sacramento State Historic Park General Plan.

Sacramento attorney Osha Meserve, counsel for the rail proponent group, said that the railroad line’s heritage extends beyond railroad history.

“The rail group is asking the city to protect the Walnut Grove Branch Line as a working railroad to help keep this region’s farm-to-fork heritage alive, as emblazoned on the Freeport water tower,” she said.

Paul Helman, a docent for the California State Railroad Museum, which is a unit of the Old Sacramento State Historic Park, is among the proponents of the preservation of the historic railroad.

Helman described the difficulty that those train proponents are facing. “(The state) doesn’t own the property (along the trail), so we can’t make a plan for something we don’t own,” he said. “All you need is 1 foot (of the track) removed and (the plan to carry out the proposed southern excursion train) is rendered useless.”

Volunteers repaired about 3,000 feet of track of the railroad, north of Sutterville Road, in 2017 and 2018.

Helman said that if the council approves the Del Rio Trail project in the March 12 meeting, proponents of preserving the railroad along the proposed

trail and beyond will continue their fight.

“We’re not going away,” he said. “We’ll look at our other options.”

Brian Ebbert, president of the South Land Park Neighborhood Association, told the Land Park News last week that his organization is opposed to any future train traffic on the old rail corridor.

“We’ve issued letters to that effect, and we have letters from Assembly Member (Kevin) McCarty, Assembly Member ( Jim) Cooper and Congresswoman (Doris) Matsui also opposing any future train traffic on that corridor, and supporting conversion of that corridor to a biking and walking trail,” he said.

Ebbert added that the community at-large is also opposed to reactivating the old rail corridor.

He claimed that that train activity in that area would result in “huge negative impacts” on the community. “(The operation of trains in the area would introduce) air pollution, ground vibration, install crossing arms across eight streets in South Land Park, 110 decibel horn blasts at intersections,” he said.

“We’re talking about an abandoned rail corridor that now travels past preschools and very close to homes that were built right up next to the tracks.

And, quite frankly, (the tracks) have been abandoned for over 40 years and (the proposed trail area is) utilized as a community greenbelt and walking path, biking path and jogging path, currently.”

He also stated that locomotives running alongside a trail with children is not a positive combination. see Del Rio page 7 Valley Community Newspapers, Inc.

Del Rio:

continued from page 6

Photo courtesy of James Houpt

This “No Trains on the Trail” sign was posted at a Spirit of the Pocket Fourth of the July Parade booth at Garcia Bend Park last summer.

“(There would be) unsafe conditions that would be created by having huge locomotives lumbering next to children as they’re biking to school or to their neighborhood playground or to the library or to (William) Land Park or to the zoo,” he said.

Also a concern to the association are potential impacts on traffic. “(There are) concerns about tying up traffic on these major arteries – Pocket Road, Florin Road, Fruitridge Road, Sutterville (Road),” he said.

Ebbert mentioned that the association also rejects the proposal to operate train excursions (along the trail site), as opposed to running a train for transportation purposes.

“It’s for an amusement ride,” he said. “So, you want to impact thousands of lives to have a government sponsored tourist attraction in people’s backyards, and that’s just not acceptable.”

Helman noted that there is no intention to run excursion trains through South Land Park. “(Excursion trains run) through the stretch that goes to Sutterville Road, but not Valley Community Newspapers, Inc.

Photo courtesy of SLPNA

A steel, railroad rail sticks up on a portion of the proposed Del Rio Trail, near Del Rio Road and Normandy Lane.

excursions on this four and a half mile (area of the proposed trail),” he said.

Helman added that the trail route would only be used for maintenance trains that would run through the area about every two to three weeks.

“The easiest way to have a completed rail is go right down on a very infrequent basis to take the locomotives and equipment to the Freeport area, and that’s where they store it,” he said.

Despite their opposition to having trains run through the trail area, the association supports rail history, Ebbert said.

“We would like the 5-milelong bike and pedestrian trail to (celebrate) the old rail history,” he said. “We can have historical signage along the way, maybe even some old rail artifacts included as part of the exhibits or public art.

“We have all sorts of ideas to honor the rail heritage of Sacramento without running vintage locomotives next to preschools and homes.”

The City Council’s March 12 meeting will be held at City Hall, 915 I St., at 2 p.m. www.valcomnews.com • March 8, 2019 • Pocket News

7

Pocket Residents Can Receive Free Tax Help Through United Way Many Pocket households qualify for Cal EITC tax credit but do not apply Arden households are eligible for free help preparing taxes and claiming credits this year, saving an average of $200 in preparer fees and often earning thousands of dollars in credits. Arden is one of the largest areas in Sacramento County where households qualify for the Cal EITC tax credit but do not apply for it. United Way California Capital Region’s Free Tax Prep program, supported by Citi Community Development, is available at two locations in Arden throughout tax season: Department of Human As-

sistance on Fulton Avenue and International Rescue Committee. At each location, IRS-certified volunteers will provide free basic tax return preparation with electronic filing and help guests claim the maximum tax credits for which they are eligible. To receive help, households must have earned $60,000 or less in 2018. Services are available in English, Russian, Farsi and Dari. To learn more and make an appointment, visit YourFreeTaxPrep.org.

“This is an important time of year for families in our

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California. The site provides households with free tax help they can trust and guides users through federal and state filing, including tax credits, with software powered by H&R Block. Users need a valid email address, income forms and Adjusted Gross Income from 2018.

This year, more households are eligible to claim federal and state Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC and Cal EITC), Child Tax Credit, and Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled. Age qualification for Cal EITC has been expanded to include ages 18-24 and working adults ages 65 and up, giving more taxpayers the opportunity to earn up to $6,500 in credits, including those who are self-employed. Many Cal EITC-eligible households are not legally required to file taxes due to very low incomes; however if they do file, they can claim the state and federal credits for which they are eligible. Due to federal law, those who file for EITC, Cal EITC or Child Tax Credit should plan for their refund to be delayed until end of February, no matter who prepares their taxes. For more information about available tax credits, visit YourFreeTaxPrep.org.

Nearly 8,500 households in the Sacramento area took advantage of United Way’s Free Tax Prep services for the 2017 tax year, resulting in more than $10 million in money claimed through credits and refunds. With support from Citi Community Development, free tax help was significantly expanded across the region last year in Amador, Placer, Sacramento and Yolo counties, increasing the number of households helped by more than 2,500 and result-

ing in more than a $3 million increase in refunds for the region compared to last year. “ The Earned Income Tax Credit is a vital tool that provides families with a much-needed cash infusion, one that can help them pay down debts, cover expenses, and even get on the road to saving and planning for the future, ” said Mary Hogarty, vice president, Citi Community Development. “ Through our support for United Way California Capital Region, we aim to expand access to tax credits like the EITC and free tax preparation for eligible people that help enable more working families to build resilient financial futures.”

Other sponsors of United Way’s 2019 Free Tax Prep program include the IRS, the State of California Department of Community Services and Development, and the Sacramento Municipal Utility District.

For nearly 100 years, United Way California Capital Region has brought local people together to make community change happen. Today, the nonprofit is bringing people together across Amador, El Dorado, Sacramento, Placer and Yolo counties for its Square One Project, a 20-year promise to significantly increase the number of students in our region who graduate from high school ready for success in college and beyond.

United Way believes ending generational poverty starts in school and is working to ensure kids meet important milestones and their families receive support and resources. To learn more and make a donation: YourLocalUnitedWay.org.

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Yocha Dehe gift boosts Native American Studies scholarships

By Dixie Reid Sacramento State

A $750,000 gift from the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation will fund hundreds of student scholarships in Sacramento State’s Native American Studies program.

Tribal Chairman Anthony Roberts presented an oversized check to University President Robert S. Nelsen and Annette Reed, professor and director of Native American Studies, at a luncheon Wednesday, March 6, in The WELL’s Terrace Suite on campus.

Ceremonies will began with opening remarks and the check presentation. Na-

Homeless: continued from page 2

seeking shelter in the fifth district, Schenirer says his “low-barrier” shelter proposal will be fully serviced, “health wise and mental health wise.”

“We’re not drug testing and people can bring their possessions and their pets,” said Schenirer. “We’re trying to have an open door so we can get these most vulnerable people indoors and get them on a pathway toward permanent housing.”

Schenirer says that while many have a vision of individuals lined up seeking shelter, this proposal would entail recruitment through city health navigators and the Sacramento Police Department’s IMPACT team, which provides outreach Valley Community Newspapers, Inc.

tive American Studies students spoke about the impact that scholarships have made on their education.

The Native American Studies Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation Scholarships are available to all undergraduate and graduate students, regardless of major. One of the requirements is for students to have completed a Native American Studies course during the year.

The tribe’s gift will allow the program to offer minimum $2,000 scholarships to individual recipients each semester, a significant increase from the current $1,000 recipients may receive per semester. and engagement services throughout the city.

Schenirer said a community meeting will be held Monday before moving to the RT board for a decision on March 11. After additional community meetings between then and March 26, the proposal will move to city council.

“I would hope that I would have support,” said Schenirer. “I don’t think that it will be unanimous. I know that some of my colleagues on the board have expressed some concerns but I think that the steps that we’ve taken to mitigate those concerns will hopefully be enough.”

Margherita Beale is a journalism student at Sacramento State. This article was written as a class assignment and has been reprinted with permission.

A goal of scholarships is to encourage students to learn about and to gain a greater understanding of California’s native people, Reed says.

“It’s touching and powerful that a California native nation invests in and believes so much in the education of Sacramento State students that they make a donation with life-changing implications,” Reed says.

“We have students who are having a difficult time financially, so when that check comes in, they’re able to get through the semester.”

Students can minor in Native American Studies or pursue a Native American

Studies concentration that will lead to a bachelor of arts in Ethnic Studies.

The $750,000 donation is not the first gift to Sac State from the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation.

The tribe’s involvement with Sac State dates to 2001, when the then-Rumsey Indian Rancheria of Wintun Indians of California helped with funding for the Californian Indian Conference held at Sacramento State. In 2006, the tribe gave

$250,000 for scholarships and support to the Native American Studies program.

The Wintun people have made their home in California’s Capay Valley for thousands of years. The tribe operates Cache Creek Casino Resort, the Yocha Dehe Golf Club, and the Séka Hills Olive Mill & Tasting Room, all near the Yolo County community of Brooks.

Dixie Reid is a senior writer for Sacramento State’s marketing department.

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9

Adventure awaits! Bike Route Sacramento - a board game for people who love games, love bikes and love Sacramento.

Bia Riaz bia@valcomnews.com

Peter Hansell and his family moved to Sacramento over seven years ago. They spent hours exploring the winding bike trails, interesting neighborhoods, local landmarks, and learning about the history of the city nestled on the confluence of two mighty rivers.

Needless to say, he fell in love.

While working as a game developer at Table Star Games, Peter had the opportunity to test a game called Connections, originally designed by Rob Carroll in 2004. At it’s core, the game was about building connections between geographical

places. “The game was never published and looked like it would end up on the pile of great ideas that never were. My daughter kept it alive by insisting that we play.

‘Papa lets play Connections’ she would say and we would play. Despite the weak art the game was good and we kept enjoying the drama of the game.

Eventually we decided that it should be brought back with new artwork and Bike Route was born,” said Peter.

Peter describes Sacramento as the perfect “bike-able” city as things are not too far apart. Since 2016, Peter has spent hundreds of hours developing Bike Route Sacramento. He has created over 50 vibrant and detailed paintings featuring well-known icons and local attractions inspired by Sacramento’s past, present and future. “The game art brings the town to life and reminds you of all the great places we have at our finger tips,” expressed Peter.

Peter’s love and appreciation for Sacramento’s history and charming neighborhoods is clearly evident in his heartfelt descriptions of all the locations featured in the game.

“Bike Route shows how things are related geographically and allows us to learn and internalize those relationships. I have watched kids play and seen the joy they experience when they fit together places into a new mental map of the town. Bike Route brings this experience back,” explains Peter on the website he created to launch the game.

Additionally Peter has been reaching out to local groups see Bike page 11

Real Life Self-Care for Caregivers Engaging the Wisdom of Your Soul Workshops will be held the 3rd Tuesday of each month for 6 months beginning March 19th from 2-4pm. with Julie Interrante, MA Topics include: • Physical health • Emotional well being • Mindful living • Belonging • The Power of Appreciation and Compassion • Clean, Simple, Life-Enhancing Food (that’s really doable) • Movement • Fun • Intuition • Guilt-free self care Please RSVP 3days in Advance for Each seminar: 916-392-3510

10

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Bike:

continued from page 10

to invite the local community to play-test the game and offer suggestions. On Saturday, March 16, 2019 from 1pm to 3pm, J Crawford’s Books, located at 5301 Freeport Boulevard will be hosting a board game workshop featuring Bike Route Sacramento. This event is open to the public.

“Come by our Board Game Workshop and help sort out some of the final issues. We still have locations that are incomplete and we need Sacramentans to come and figure out what is the essence of each space on the board. We also will be play-testing the game and brainstorming about ideas,” stated Peter.

For more information visit www.bikeroutegame.com/

Steinberg: continued from page 5

However, Steinberg added that there are thousands of homeless people in the capital city and tens of thousands of homeless in California.

Steinberg mentioned that he feels that City Hall’s short distance from the state Capitol is advantageous.

“I’m going to have the advantage of good proximity to the Capitol,” he said.

“Maybe a little less sleep, but I’m going to take (this new role) on and see if I can help. Fundamentally, we need to approach (this issue) like the emergency that it is.”

Steinberg also spoke about the issue of economic development with urgency. “ The voters of Sacramento passed Measure U (last November),” he said. “ I led (that new sales tax) campaign and kind of came up with the idea to extend the existing half-cent to a cent Valley Community Newspapers, Inc.

and using the second halfcent for economic development, and specifically equity in economic development.”

Steinberg stressed the importance of increasing Sacramento’s economic base and becoming more than a city whose job base is dependent on government.

“It means clean energy, it means alternative fuels, it means health care, it means innovation, it means technology, it means food, (and) so much more,” he said. “It takes intention and real resources to partner with the private sector and partner with the community and partner with the other public sector partners to actually make this economy more dynamic.”

The mayor provided the example of Centene Corp., a major Fortune 100 health insurance company that was attracted to Sacramento. “(That 2018 acquisition brought) 5,000 jobs,” he said. “But it required us to partner with Centene. We offered a per employee incentive. (It was) a good, sol-

id, public investment for the creation of jobs, and we want to be able to do more of that.

“We want to be able to invest in small business owners to help them grow their businesses in neighborhoods. We want to put real resources into these run-

down commercial corridors that have so much potential and so much history.”

Steinberg also stated his desire to create much greater workforce development opportunities for young people, and integrate those opportunities with their public education.

With his understanding that many workforce development efforts involve resources, Steinberg noted that he is calling for a major set of investments in the city’s neighborhoods, especially neighborhoods that have “been left out for far too long.”

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3 beds , 2 baths, 1,433 square feet per assessor www.valcomnews.com • March 8, 2019 • Pocket News

11

Faces and Places:

Land Parkers helping with Camp Fire donations Photos by Stephen Crowley

Member of the Rotary Club of South Sacramento, along with the help of local real estate agent Steffan Brown, have been delivering donated furniture to the Chico area for fire victims.

They’ve made multiple trips and made another one on Tuesday, Feb. 5, which these photos reflect. Shown, here are Rotarians at club member Jack Blank’s Land Park

home loading up a 15-foot box truck, which was lent out

by Brown. Other key players have been Faith Presbyterian Church (the ones soliciting the donations), and of course the Salvation Army Distribution Center in Chico that is coordinating distribution of the furniture, appliances and other donated items to folks who lost all to the Camp Fire. see Donations page 13

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Donations: continued form page 12

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13

Ohana:

ditional cultural practices and traditions so our past does not continued from page 3 fade away.

“Through our teachings and sure they are passed on to fu- performances, we hope to fosture generations,” Pat says. ter cultural understanding and Hawaiian stories, culture, diversity in Sacramento. We and history have been large- encourage others, especially passed on through hula and ly our youthful audiences, to ‘oli (chanting). Thus, as a hula be proud of their ethnic backhalau (school), she explains, it grounds, to preserve their culis their responsibility to ensure tures, as we are doing, and to the history of Hawai’i is not be accepting of others’ differforgotten, and to preserve tra- ences,” Pat said.

Beginner classes make learning hula, ‘olelo Hawai’i (Hawaiian language), and other sacred traditions fun and approachable. Every class begins with an ‘oli (chant) in which the haumana (students) ask permission to enter the halau (school).

“Hula basics come next, and things sure do heat up,” Pat says. “We practice the myriad traditional steps in hula to the beat of an ipu heke (gourd drum). This is both educational and great exercise.” Once basics are done, they begin choreography. In all of the classes, Ohana practices both hula ‘auana (modern) and hula kahiko (ancient). Ohana’s alaka’i (class leader) makes sure things stay fresh by working on a mix of both types.

Ohana does encourage notetaking, which many people wouldn’t expect to be a part of a dance class, Pat says. “Because hula is storytelling, writing down the movements alongside the words and translation of a song helps us dance with authenticity and feeling, so you can have a better understanding of what you’re dancing about. Since every class will include new choreography, we stress the important of attending class regularly.

There is a commitment and dis-

cipline associated with being a member in a traditional halau.

The fun, pilina (connection), and aloha present in every class make it worth the effort.”

Proud and happy to share their aloha through dances and performances, all of which, Pat says, are based on education, blending real life stories of Hawai`i and its people within their dances. “We enjoy educating children and their parents, and other adults about Hawai`i at a variety of venues: local community libraries, schools, multicultural events, hospitals, and others.

Our educational and interactive approach helps to encourage cultural understanding and diversity for both the Hawaiian culture and one’s own culture,” she says.

Ohana has been invited to perform and teach hula to the bloggers of Disney On Ice in Stockton and Sacramento in February. They’re scheduled to perform at UC Davis this month, the Crocker Art Gallery for the “Night of the Museum” Event in April, and various libraries and festivals within and outside of Sacramento, as the year progresses.

Visit ohanadancegroup.com to see a list of performances from the past five years.

Since Ohana’s inception in 2003, the organization was deemed by the IRS and the State to be a non-profit entity and Pat underwent, and graduated from, a three-year, in-depth, hula training program with a cultural expert from Hawai`i, Kawaikapuokalani Hewett. Not only was Pat a member of a group of a dozen others from California, she managed the program, for which she is well respected.

Ohana hasbeen recognized by the governor of Hawai’i in 2011 for educating Native Hawaiians and others who live away from Hawai`i, for preserving the Hawaiian culture and traditions through hula, and for being able to reduce cultural fragmentation as a result of being separated from Hawai`i.

Due to the group’s adherence to authentic Hawaiian traditions and educational efforts, they have been, and continue to be, invited to innumerable events to share our knowledge and talents with the community.

“We continue to do our best to ensure that our beloved Hawaiian culture is not diluted or forgotten. As one of the most diverse cities in America, Sacramento is an ideal home for our halau that will allow our Hawaiian culture to flourish and grow,” says Pat.

What’s New in March?

Chinese Fortune Telling - Wednesday, March 13, 1:30-3:00pm; $20/$25 drop-in Pickleball Clinic for Beginners - Friday, March 15, 12:30-2:30pm; Free Reiki & Acupressure Clinic - Tuesday, March 19, 1:00-3:00pm; $10 per 15 min session Let’s Have Lunch & Talk about Death - Wednesday, March 20, 12:00-2:00pm; Free Tips for Choosing Cell Phone Service – Tuesday, March 26, 2:30-4:00pm; Free For more information or to register, contact Anna Su at (916) 393-9026 or classes@accsv.org.

For a complete list of our classes and free workshops, visit our website at www.accsv.org.

7334 Park City Drive, Sacramento, CA 95831 • www.accsv.org

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The Dad Navigates Troubled Waters: Please Pass the Cinnamon

We ran out of spices recently, so I stopped at the store on my way home. I was exhausted from my day and rushing to make the train. I went to the bulk section and filled a container with what I thought was cinnamon. Instead, it was cumin. Even though I laughed at myself, I had a pretty horrific memory from the time when KD was a toddler.

Before KD (our now 11 year old son) was born, Captain Mommy (my wife Stephanie) and I were all set to do things our way. We took those parenting classes where they teach you how to use a sling and co-parent peacefully. We had the cloth diapers.

We were planning to do a water birth. We didn’t find out his gender. We had a birthing coach. Etc. And then everything went sidewise. He spent 20 days in the NICU, came home on oxygen, etc. It was not what we expected, at all. We were in parenting hell, and just did our best to survive. The cloth diapers turned into all-purpose rags. He had pretty inValley Community Newspapers, Inc.

tense pulmonary challenges, so he didn’t sleep. I spent most nights in the steam with him.

After about a month, he came off oxygen but was still sick. We had three more visits to the ICU. When he got a little older and started eating we just grabbed whatever we could through the haze of sleep deprivation. And as long as he didn’t complain, food didn’t matter. My favorite moment is the day I reached to put cinnamon into his applesauce and instead put in cumin. Since he gobbled it down and didn’t complain, it was a win.

Moving forward, KD’s “special needs” lasted until he was 4-5. We had moments of hell, but they subsided. Now his health is normal.

But what happens for a family with a number of kids when a child’s special needs persist long-term or develop later? Whether it’s a child with Down’s Syndrome or is autistic or a kid with an eating disorder or who is cutting repeatedly, appropriately, more

parental resources go to the more needy child and, out of necessity, less to the others.

Children aren’t stupid; when they recognize that their parents aren’t around and/or emotionally available, they know they’ll have to work to get the attention they need and deserve. Although there are a number of strategies kids use, these are the ones I see most frequently. The uberresponsible kid (typically the oldest) who tries to pick-up the slack by cooking, cleaning, and “parenting” younger siblings. They want to be recognized for their help. Instead, parents often feel reassured that things are under control and keep their focus on the more needy child.

Other kids act out by failing their classes, getting “caught” using drugs, and/or by being particularly defiant.

It may not be their preferred method, but some attention is better than none. As you can guess, it backfires. Instead of getting love, affection, interest and concern, the little emotional energy their parents do have is spent on anger, yelling and punitive consequences.

Perhaps most difficult to spot are the kids who, on some level, recognize that their parents have little to give them and disappear, instead of being demanding. Rather than giving the love and attention they deserve, the stressed parents figure they must be OK and continue taking care of the more needy child.

Then one day you have one of those “wait, I’m a good parent who’s supposed to act differently” moments and realize that your parenting is out of balance and your other children need more. That’s not to say that you’ll be able to do anything differently. But here are a few questions for you to consider?

Do you both HAVE to go to all of your child’s appoint-

ments? Instead, can you divide and conquer? If you don’t divide and conquer, what little things can you do so that your other kids know you’re thinking of them? Are you spending regular, one-on-one time with the other kids, when the crisis subsides? What are you doing to take care of yourself physically and emotionally? Are you depending on your friends/family for support with watching the kids and getting time for you as a couple? Are there other, healthy adults (e.g. coaches, scout master, teachers, club moderators, etc.) available to help “parent” your other kids?

Are you pointing your kids toward these activities? Are you preaching to your kids the importance of being kids, not parents, and send them to places that support this

(e.g. summer camp)? Do they visit relatives in areas away from home? Would you consider having your child see a therapist?

No-matter what strategies you use for coping with being a parent of a special needs child, his or her birth and upbringing will throw the delicate balance of a family into a destabilizing blender. Things won’t be “normal.” But there are things you can try. After all, we can only do the best we can do.

Until next time.

Steve is a Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with teens and parents, in Midtown.

His website is www.rivercitycounseling.com, and he can be found on Facebook at River City Counseling and Twitter @rivercitysteve.

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17

What’s

happening

VCA GREENHAVEN POCKET ANIMAL HOSPITAL WINTER PET CARE DRIVE: Loaves & Fishes and VCA Animal Hospitals announce the kickoff of our 5th Annual Winter Pet Care Drive focused on helping some of the neediest people in our community and their pets. During the month of October, donations may be brought to any one of the VCA Animal Hospitals in the Sacramento area and all items will go directly to the individuals served at Loaves & Fishes in downtown Sacramento. This winter drive is dedicated to supporting the power of the human-animal bond across all members of our community and is an extension of an ongoing bimonthly Pet Food Pantry program in partnership between Loaves & Fishes, VCA Animal Hospitals and Hill’s Pet Nutrition. Last year’s drive was very successful: 16 VCA hospitals in the Sacramento Valley mobilized employees and clients in a winter drive that collected more crates, blanket, leashes, pet sweaters, and toys than we could even count. They hope, with your help, for more of the same this year. You are welcome to join in the effort to collect pet sweaters, blankets, collars, leashes, pet carriers and pet toys for those in need in our community. Loaves & Fishes provides a variety of shelter, food and support services to the Sacramento homeless community. For more information about Loaves & Fishes, visit sacloaves.org. VCA Greenhaven Pocket Animal Hospital is located at 1 Valine

Court, Sacramento, CA 95831. For more information, call 916-391-3677 or visit www.

VCAgreenhaven.com JFK HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME: The John F. Kennedy High School Athletics Department will induct its first Hall of Fame class this spring in May, 2019. The school is looking for nominations of Cougar graduates, coaches, teams and athletic department contributors. The John F. Kennedy High School Athletics Hall of Fame is intended to recognize and honor those who have made a significant impact on the athletic community with their athletic achievements during high school or with exceptional effort and service to the John F. Kennedy High School athletic department. The Hall of Fame looks to reflect the proud history of John F. Kennedy High School, highlight the longstanding athletic success of the institution and recognize the importance of developing wellrounded individuals. Please contact Athletic Director, David Parsh at: david-parsh@scusd. edu for more information. To submit an nomination, visit https://jfk.scusd.edu/post/hallfame-nomination-form

Pocket/Greenhaven?

When a black mother moves to California from the segregated south with her husband and children, the family must confront with it’s like to be the first black household on the block, the only black children at school and how to continue to love those with different ideologies. Ginger Rutland has written a play based on her mother’s book that will have its premiere at the Sacramento Theater Company later this month. Join Ginger for a special reading and discussion of the book and the play. Saturday, March 9, 11 a.m. at Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library, 7335 Gloria Drive, Sacramento.

POCKET LITTLE LEAGUE OPENING DAY CEREMONIES: Opening Day Ceremony starts at 8 a.m. at Bill Conlin Youth Sports Complex. The League has invited Mayor Darrell Steinberg, Council Member Rick Jennings, and Parks Commissioner Devin Lavelle. The River Cats mascot, Dinger, will also be in attendance. This year former MLB player Ryan Mattheus will also be present.

SATURDAY, MARCH 16

SATURDAY, MARCH 9 “WHEN WE WERE COLORED” WITH GINGER RUTLAND - When We Were Colored is a book by Eva Rutland and tells the story of one family’s experience with integration in post-World War II Sacramento.

GAME DAY: Join us for an afternoon of family-friendly, old-fashioned board games.

All ages and abilities are welcome. Saturday, March 16, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library, 7335 Gloria Drive, Sacramento.

READ TO A DOG - Looking for a way to boost school-age reading skills? Join us in the library’s Reading Tower area and practice reading out loud to a registered therapy dog. Kids are invited to bring their own books or borrow one from our collection. First and third Saturdays (March 2 and 16), 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library, 7335 Gloria Drive, Sacramento.

TUESDAY, MARCH 19 “ALL IN” GAMING AND SOCIAL HOUR FOR ADULTS AND SENIORS – Join us for games, refreshments, conversation, and fun! Available games will include poker, chess, Scrabble, checkers, dominos, Mahjong, cribbage, and more! 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, March 5 and 19, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library, 7335 Gloria Drive, Sacramento.

SATURDAY, MARCH 23 RELEVANT READS BOOK CLUB: THE ROAD TO CHARACTER – This nonfiction book discussion group will be discussing The Road to Character by David Brooks. Saturday, March 23, 1 p.m. at Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library, 7335 Gloria Drive, Sacramento.

SATURDAY, MARCH 30 OHANA DANCE GROUP OPEN HOUSE - Ohana Dance Group is a local halau that

performs at many events in the community.

Ohana will open their doors to the community to share the Hawaiian culture. The Halau will be open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. They will be sharing the Hawaiian culture with activities, demonstrations, basic dance steps, crafts and more.This is a free opportunity for community members to see an activity that is presently available in the South Land Park area.

Ohana will also have Hawaiian crafts available for purchase. This is a free event and all ages welcome. 6325 Belleau Wood Lane Suite 1B, Sacramento, CA 95822

SATURDAY, APRIL 27 EARTH DAY SACRAMENTO RIVER PARKWAY VOLUNTEER DAY: Celebrate Earth Day from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a volunteer day at our beautiful Sacramento River parkway and Garcia Bend Park, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Pocket/Greenhaven!

Volunteers will be picking up trash along the Parkway and sprucing up Garcia Bend Park to help make these wonderful gems shine. Equipment provided by Parks & Rec, Snacks provided by Commissioner Devin Lavelle. RSVP requested to parks@devinlavelle.com; Garcia Bend Park, 7654 Pocket Road.

LAKE WASHINGTON SAILING CLUB OPEN HOUSE: Free Sailboat rides and fun for all! Come to the Lake Washington Sailing Club’s Annual Open House on Saturday April 27, 2019, from 10:30am to 3:30PM. In addi-

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What’s tion to sailing, there will be fascinating displays of sailing activities and sailing related organizations, food and refreshments for sale and fun activities for kids. The club is located at the end of Boathouse Road at the Port of Sacramento in West Sacramento. Check our website for directions: http://www.lwsailing.org.

THURSDAY, MAY 30 PRIDE OF THE POCKET: Pocket Greenhaven Community Association annual awards ceremony, celebrating the folks who make our community such a wonderful place to live, work and play from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Didion School Park.

ONGOING PARKINSON ASSOCIATION OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA South Sacramento Support Group: Every second Thursday of the month from 1 to 2:15 p.m., Location: Asian Community Center (ACC), 7334 Park City Drive, Sacramento, CA 95831.

This support group is free to those who are living with Parkinson’s Disease, their family and caregivers. The group shares information to help each other and provide guest speakers who can assist with physical and mental challenges in daily living.

SIRS BRANCH 93 meets every third Monday of each month. Lunch is at 11:30 in the Elks Club, 6446 Riverside Blvd.

If you are retired or close to retirement and looking to join a men’s group, we are Sons In Retirement. A group of men with a wide variety of backgrounds that love to socialize, play golf, bowl, pinochle, hike, bike ride or maybe you would like to form an activity that you are interested in, join us. The first lunch is on the group. Give Jack a call, there is always room at our meetings. Interesting speakers and a great buffet are included at each meeting. Jack Reefer 916-424-1303 or email me: jreefer@sbcglobal.net ENGLISH CONVERSATION GROUP: The Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library hosts an English Conversation Group every Wednesday from 5:30-6:30 p.m. 7335 Gloria Drive, Sacramento.

FRIENDS AND FAMILY OF SURVIVORS SUPPORT GROUP: Every first Monday of the month from 6 to 7 p.m. Location: Sacramento. Call 916-428-3271 for exact location. Description: Is your friend or family member in a domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking situation? This free, drop-in group is for you. Learn how to support your loved one, and receive some support yourself among people who are in the same situation. Feel free to call My Sister’s House for more information: 916-428-3271. #METOO SUPPORT GROUP: Every third Monday of the month from 6 to 7 p.m. Location: Sacramento. Call 916-428-3271 for exact location. Description: This drop-in support group is free, confidential, open to all Valley Community Newspapers, Inc.

happening genders, and available to sexual assault survivors at any point in their healing. Feel free to call My Sister’s House for more information: 916-428-3271.

MUSIC AND MOTION AT BELLE COOLEDGE COMMUNITY CENTER: Rowena Alverto brings exercise classes for seniors with a combination of yoga, tai chi, zumba, for seniors on Wednesdays from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. $3. 5699 South Land Park Drive.

LOW-COST VACCINATION CLINICS AT THE SSPCA: Mondays and Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for vaccines; no appointments necessary. Vaccines include: 1) DAPP vaccine ($20) — DAPP stands for Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus. While important for dogs of every age, puppies are susceptible to the Parovirus.

2) Bordetella ($20) -- often referred to as the kennel cough vaccine, this helps protect against a strain of bacteria that can cause kennel cough. Many boarding kennels and groomers require this vaccine for services, 3) FVRCP vaccination ($20) prevents three potentially deadly airborne viruses: rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and panleukopenia in cats, 4) Rabies shot ($6) -- this vaccine is required by animal control or to license your dog. The first vaccine is valid for one year, subsequent vaccines if given on time will last 3 years.

If you are 65 or older, vaccinations are free!

The Sacramento Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is located at 6201 Florin Perkins Road, Sacramento.

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER: This class is designed for beginner or students with limited or no experience with computer.

Learn about computer hardware, system components, software and more. Pre-payment of $30 and pre-registration required. Class will start from January 16 thru 25, 2018 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at ACC Senior Services, 7334 Park City Drive.

For more information, call 393-9026 ext 330, www.accsv.orgs.

Pocket/Greenhaven?

Randall Veirs, Delta High School Band Director at rveirs@rdusd.org FREE LINE DANCE CLASS: Every Thursday from 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. “Two Left Feet” dance class for beginners. If you think you have “two left feet” this class is for you.

Anyone can participate in this fun activity.

Friendly group of people. Drop-ins welcome.

Sponsored by ACC Senior Services. Class held every Thursday at ACC Greenhaven Terrace, 1180 Corporate Way. First class is always free. For more information call (916) 3939026 ext 330. www.accsv.org WEDNESDAY COFFEE AND CONVERSATION GATHERING: Every Wednesday morning from 7 to 10 am., join neighbors at Cafe Latte, 7600 Greenhaven Drive, for conversation and fun. Find the group back near the piano.

“ALL IN” SENIOR SOCIAL HOUR – The Pocket Library will provide games, refreshments, conversation, and fun on the last Wednesday of each month from 1 to 3 p.m.!

Games available to play include poker, chess, Scrabble, checkers, Dominos, Mahjong, cribbage, and more! Robbie Waters PocketGreenhaven Library, 7335 Gloria Drive, Sacramento.

ROTARY CLUB OF SOUTH SACRAMENTO: The friendliest club in Sacramento, the Rotary Club of South Sacramento meets every Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at the Casa Garden, 2760 Sutterville Road.

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.

SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL OF SACRAMENTO SOUTH: Meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at Aviators Restaurant, Executive Airport, 6151 Freeport Blvd. For more information, call Dee at 341-7852.

ARTISTS’ AND CRAFTERS’ GROUP – Held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month, this meet-up was started to allow participants from past and current “In Creative Company” classes to continue meeting. Any artists or crafters who are interested in this social group are welcome--just bring whatever you’re working on and join us! 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library, 7335 Gloria Drive, Sacramento.

THE CLARKSBURG COMMUNITY BAND INVITES YOU TO JOIN: How about dusting off that horn and getting involved! The band is a group of musicians that enjoys sharing a love of music with each other and our communities. The band is looking to expand the ensemble and wants to welcome those who are interested and who play a standard concert band instrument. The band meets Tuesday evenings from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at Delta High School, 52810 Netherlands Ave., Clarksburg. For more information contact

JOB COACH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE AT POCKET LIBRARY– Make an appointment to meet one-on-one with a volunteer job coach and get help with online job searching, using library databases, interviewing tips, resume writing, and more. For questions or to schedule an appointment, please ask at the library service desk or call 916-264-2920 during open hours. Appointment times are available for most Wednesdays between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. at Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library, 7335 Gloria Drive, Sacramento.

TECH HELP APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE AT POCKET LIBRARY– Have a technology question or problem? Sign up for a one-on-one technology help session with our staff. We can help with basic computer, Internet or e-mail questions, and/or get you started with library services like e-books or e-magazines! Stop by the service desk or call 916264-2920 during open hours to make an appointment. Appointment times are available for most Wednesdays between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., Thursdays between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., and Saturdays between 10 a.m. and noon, at Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library, 7335 Gloria Drive, Sacramento.

BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME AT POCKET LIBRARY– Babies and toddlers (ages 0 to 3 years) and their caretakers are invited to join us for songs and rhymes. Arrive extra early or stay later 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.

KNIT TOGETHER AT POCKET LIBRARY– Love to knit? Want to learn? Join us for expert advice, great conversation and more.

All crafters are welcome, not just knitters!

Every Friday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library, 7335 Gloria Drive, Sacramento.

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.

SING ALONG WITH MISTER COOPERJoin 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, Sacramento.

Call Melissa at (916) 429-9901 www.valcomnews.com

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BABY STORYTIME AT BELLE COOLEDGE LIBRARY –Nursery rhymes,

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St. Joseph Cemetery, 21st & Broadway St. Mary Cemetery & Funeral Center Calvary Cemetery & Funeral Center Visit:

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www.valcomnews.com • March 8, 2019 • Pocket News

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Brooklynn, CPO

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5th Generation, Naturwood Family

C H O OS E FROM T H E B ES T S E L E C T I O N O F Q UA L I T Y L E AT H E R FU R N I T U R E I N T H E A R E A

“Tell ‘em Brooklynn sent you.”

SALE $1079 WEST Leather Reclining

Chair & Ottoman reg $1199

088707

SALE $1099 ALDEN Swivel Gliding Leather

SALE 2479 reg 2749 $

Power Recliner

$

reg $1199

FENWICK Leather Power Sofa

LOVESEAT $2399 RECLINER $1699 438545

LARGEST SELECTION OF RECLINERS SALE $1429

SALE 5399 $

JAGGER Leather

BRAZEN Power

High-Leg Power Recliner

Leather Sectional

reg $5999

reg $1579

003306

POWER

POWER

R E C L I N I N G

762068

POWER

R E C L I N I N G

162930

POWER

R E C L I N I N G

R E C L I N I N G

SALE $1699 PATTON Leather Power Recliner

SALE $2259

reg $1899

198159

DYLAN Leather Sofa reg $2499

142273

SALE $1699

POWER MILES Leather R E C L I N I N G

Power Recliner reg $1899

SALE $2479 POWER

SALE $1899

R E C L I N I N G

ASHER Power Leather Sofa

reg $2749

077605

ELIJAH Leather Power Recliner

633216

reg $2149

531845

POWER

R E C L I N I N G

12125 Folsom Blvd.

Mon – Fri 10am – 8pm Rancho Cordova Sat 10am – 6pm 916-351-0227 Sun 11am – 6pm www.naturwood.com

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Pocket News • March 8, 2019 • www.valcomnews.com

*Sale applies to all indicated product except all “Clearance”, “Special Buys”, and “Truckload” items. Offer not available in conjunction with any other promotion, discount or financing. Offers not available on previous purchases. Sale ends 3/10/19.

Valley Community Newspapers, Inc.