We are all rude – to someone at some time – or at least we have been perceived that way. Being human usually entails thinking only of oneself on occasion; hence, that’s when someone has thought us rude. Okay, now that we’ve justified our incivility…
Let’s talk about perceptions. Look back 30, 40 or 50 years (sorry, youngsters) and you will see how our actual definitions of rudeness have changed. Working for someone who showed favoritism in hiring or promotions, listening to blonde – Polish – or “the little woman” jokes, and breathing other people’s cigarette smoke in the work place, restaurant or even your own home were all commonplace.
As social and environmental progress is made, we’ve seen our reactions to these behaviors change dramatically. And, yes, many of these situations only evolved via the courtrooms or legislators of our land. Interestingly, however, some things never seem to change.
Johns Hopkins University released results from a study last week – the Terrible Ten Behaviors, which listed as number one: “Discrimination in an employment situation.” Polled were 615 employees and university students in Baltimore. See their press release at www.jhu.edu/news/home07/oct07/civility.html.
Thirty examples of rude behavior were listed on the survey, and respondents were asked to rate each from 1 (not offensive) to 5 (most offensive). Not surprisingly, using cell phones during conversations or meetings made it to the top ten; but, surprisingly it was at the bottom of that list. In fact, misuse of handicapped privileges was two places ahead. While driving anywhere in California, it seems the blue designated parking places are most often the only vacant spots…or is that just my perception?
Back to the number one category – employment discrimination. First of all, the category is vague. Discrimination against one’s age, sexual orientation, race or body shape? Who knows?! We know it can and does happen, but often difficult to prove or redress. Maybe we forget that only one applicant can be granted the open position; could we be upset that we just didn’t get the job? “I’ve been cheated!” Uh-huh.
The next few terrible behaviors have always been perceived as terrible: aggressive or dangerous driving, taking credit for someone else’s work, treating service providers as inferiors. Then we come to jokes or remarks that mock another’s race, gender, age, etc. Many have lost the ability to laugh at these, thank goodness. However, some rude, outspoken media celebrities continue to model this behavior which keeps it alive, unfortunately.
Bullying is number six of these top ten. Our perception of this has begun to change, but we still have a ways to go. It used to be traditional behavior in high school locker rooms or hallways, often instigated by coaches/leaders perhaps. Hazing was an accepted part of the maturing process – until we woke up and noticed the real damage to our quiet, introverted students. Now, we see more violent reactions of some of these mistreated who finally “speak up” - with their parent’s revolver.
Number seven is littering. Yes, it’s a problem, but compare our streets and highways to earlier decades, if you can. Major ad campaigns have helped achieve a major overhaul in many folks’ thinking. Most parents instill this early in their children - as opposed to parents in earlier decades who probably rolled the car window down for us to throw our gum out onto the blacktop. Of course, back then we didn’t even have paper-wrapped foods to eat on the go, thus eliminating much potential litter. Hmmmm.
Remember seeing cigarette butts all over the ground - if you weren’t near an ashtray, which was often part of a room’s furnishings?! Watch any mid-20th century movie and you’re reminded how it used to be - main characters lighting up and puffing through every scene. Has our perception of smoking ever changed! With laws now prohibiting smoking in many public places, this behavior still makes it into the terrible top ten. Unbelieveable.
In fact, while enjoying our local Pumpkinfest downtown last weekend, I struggled for hours to find someone smoking, and I looked hard – especially on the periphery of activities. Only one cigar and one pipe could be seen, together with two cigarettes…pretty amazing.
Now, the final and nefarious cell phone user was very visible at the downtown event just like anyplace - all the time! And I was one of them, admittedly. But in my defense, I found an isolated spot and made it short. If we are walking, talking or spending time with our friends or family, is it rude to take or make a phone call without removing ourselves? In a casual environment, it may be no worse than someone coming up and interrupting our conversation…but in a more formal work or entertainment setting, it has become, deservedly, a major faux pas (though only number 10 on this list). And how many annoying phone rings can there be?!
It would be interesting to see results of a top ten terrible behavior survey fifty years from today. Our perceptions are always changing, along with society’s norms. Hopefully, as our technology and customs evolve, we will continue to think about others and the effect our behavior has on them. The old golden rule still works.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Survivors choose their future
“Man is made or unmade by himself. By the right choice he ascends. As a being of power, intelligence, and love, and the lord of his own thoughts, he holds the key to every situation…” ~ James Allen
The Situation. That’s what Spanish writer Arturo Perez-Reverte called it in “The Queen of the South.” Published in 2002 and translated into English in 2004, this book both rocked and fortified me recently. In the first pages, his female protagonist Teresa Mendoza suddenly found herself in what her recently murdered drug-courier boyfriend had called The Situation.
For Teresa, it meant running for her life from drug lords and government agents after her boyfriend was ‘taken out’ – and she not only remained alive, but for the next twelve years gained power and became a legend in that dangerous world. Based on an actual woman who – possibly with her child, may now be in your American neighborhood - in a new ‘situation,’ this novel was illuminating and often inspiring. A young sweetheart is left alone, but somehow takes control of her emotions and thoughts to turn the tables of her life.
Well, she was responsible for injuring, maiming or taking lives to wrangle that control from her enemies, which I can’t admire. However, her indomitable spirit helped her survive the dangerous mine field which had been her boyfriend’s world. She took control, since it was impossible to escape.
More in keeping with Mr. Allen’s quotation above may be a woman from the opposite end of the spectrum – Eleanor Roosevelt. Her life was reputable, documented, nonfiction…and she survived the loss of her husband, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, remaining steadfast and retaining control of her life. Eleanor’s words and actions still motivate women and men today.
As The Situation confronted her, she maintained her strength and bore her mantle well. President Truman appointed her to the United States Delegation to the United Nations General Assembly, remaining there until 1953. She also became chairman of the Human Rights Commission during the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948.
She went on to volunteer her services to the American Association for the United Nations and in 1961 was reappointed by President Kennedy to the United States Delegation to the United Nations. He also placed her on the National Advisory Committee of the Peace Corps and chairman of the President's Commission on the Status of Women. Her humanitarian awards were plentiful, plus she had a huge presence in the media, even writing her own syndicated column “My Day” from 1935 nearly up to her death in 1962.
Wow. Now, there’s a widow to learn from. Somewhere between the Queen of the South and the First Lady of the World is me. On a September Saturday morning, I lost my young husband Michael to a sudden massive heart attack after only twelve years together. I reflect this month on the twenty-four years I’ve now lived without him and ponder again his death’s effect on me and my children.
I remember several new girlfriends who also attended college as re-entry students with me after Michael was gone. They were all divorced and didn’t understand how I was making it. I couldn’t relate to their relief to be estranged from their husbands; and they had a dad to send the kids to for an occasional respite. I was on duty 24/7 for my three young children while finishing college to realize my dream of teaching - and supporting us.
Unlike Teresa Mendoza, my life was not dangerous; but the physical, emotional and financial pitfalls were still there. And, unlike Eleanor Roosevelt, my resources were minimal. I would like to think my influence on my two daughters and son has been positive, but we all have our imperfections. Facing The Situation was traumatic and life-changing for us. One moment he’s there – the next, he’s gone.
Making the choices to stay positive, work hard, reminisce fondly, and look forward has ultimately made us stronger human beings, I believe. We take no one – and no days for granted; carpe diem rings a loud bell in our ears.
Unfortunately, writer-philosopher James Allen's life was also brief and his literary career lasted only nine years until his death in 1912. During that period he wrote nineteen books, inspiring hope for readers like me.
In his Foreword of “As a Man Thinketh,” Allen writes his purpose is “to stimulate men and women to the discovery and perception of the truth that ‘They themselves are makers of themselves.’" We choose our thoughts, he says. And our “mind is the master weaver, both of the inner garment of character and the outer garment of circumstance.”
I appreciate Allen's two essential truths: today we are where our thoughts have taken us, and we are the architects - for better or worse - of our futures.
The Situation. That’s what Spanish writer Arturo Perez-Reverte called it in “The Queen of the South.” Published in 2002 and translated into English in 2004, this book both rocked and fortified me recently. In the first pages, his female protagonist Teresa Mendoza suddenly found herself in what her recently murdered drug-courier boyfriend had called The Situation.
For Teresa, it meant running for her life from drug lords and government agents after her boyfriend was ‘taken out’ – and she not only remained alive, but for the next twelve years gained power and became a legend in that dangerous world. Based on an actual woman who – possibly with her child, may now be in your American neighborhood - in a new ‘situation,’ this novel was illuminating and often inspiring. A young sweetheart is left alone, but somehow takes control of her emotions and thoughts to turn the tables of her life.
Well, she was responsible for injuring, maiming or taking lives to wrangle that control from her enemies, which I can’t admire. However, her indomitable spirit helped her survive the dangerous mine field which had been her boyfriend’s world. She took control, since it was impossible to escape.
More in keeping with Mr. Allen’s quotation above may be a woman from the opposite end of the spectrum – Eleanor Roosevelt. Her life was reputable, documented, nonfiction…and she survived the loss of her husband, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, remaining steadfast and retaining control of her life. Eleanor’s words and actions still motivate women and men today.
As The Situation confronted her, she maintained her strength and bore her mantle well. President Truman appointed her to the United States Delegation to the United Nations General Assembly, remaining there until 1953. She also became chairman of the Human Rights Commission during the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948.
She went on to volunteer her services to the American Association for the United Nations and in 1961 was reappointed by President Kennedy to the United States Delegation to the United Nations. He also placed her on the National Advisory Committee of the Peace Corps and chairman of the President's Commission on the Status of Women. Her humanitarian awards were plentiful, plus she had a huge presence in the media, even writing her own syndicated column “My Day” from 1935 nearly up to her death in 1962.
Wow. Now, there’s a widow to learn from. Somewhere between the Queen of the South and the First Lady of the World is me. On a September Saturday morning, I lost my young husband Michael to a sudden massive heart attack after only twelve years together. I reflect this month on the twenty-four years I’ve now lived without him and ponder again his death’s effect on me and my children.
I remember several new girlfriends who also attended college as re-entry students with me after Michael was gone. They were all divorced and didn’t understand how I was making it. I couldn’t relate to their relief to be estranged from their husbands; and they had a dad to send the kids to for an occasional respite. I was on duty 24/7 for my three young children while finishing college to realize my dream of teaching - and supporting us.
Unlike Teresa Mendoza, my life was not dangerous; but the physical, emotional and financial pitfalls were still there. And, unlike Eleanor Roosevelt, my resources were minimal. I would like to think my influence on my two daughters and son has been positive, but we all have our imperfections. Facing The Situation was traumatic and life-changing for us. One moment he’s there – the next, he’s gone.
Making the choices to stay positive, work hard, reminisce fondly, and look forward has ultimately made us stronger human beings, I believe. We take no one – and no days for granted; carpe diem rings a loud bell in our ears.
Unfortunately, writer-philosopher James Allen's life was also brief and his literary career lasted only nine years until his death in 1912. During that period he wrote nineteen books, inspiring hope for readers like me.
In his Foreword of “As a Man Thinketh,” Allen writes his purpose is “to stimulate men and women to the discovery and perception of the truth that ‘They themselves are makers of themselves.’" We choose our thoughts, he says. And our “mind is the master weaver, both of the inner garment of character and the outer garment of circumstance.”
I appreciate Allen's two essential truths: today we are where our thoughts have taken us, and we are the architects - for better or worse - of our futures.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Teachers Can, Do,...and Teach!
When the last school year ended, many might have been singing, “School’s out for summer!” But, for some who work in the hallowed halls (or in the trenches, literally, at Ukiah High during modernization), the lessons don’t end when summer begins.
Though teachers aren’t lined up fighting for summer school positions, several keep teaching to get students a step closer to graduation. I’m fortunate for the last twelve years that the Title VII program sends me off campus to work at the Tribal Learning Centers on area Native American rancherias or reservations.
Change of scene and coursework gives me at least some kind of break from the norm. Plus, it’s been a pleasure to go out and see old friends I’ve worked with over the years, watching these youngsters grow up to play integral roles in their tribes’ futures.
If teachers don’t teach, they don’t continue to get paid, since this district pays on a ten-month schedule. And, unlike yesteryear, seasonal jobs are hard to come by. If they’re fortunate to have other sources of income or contributions from a working spouse, it’s possible for those in education to totally pull up stakes and not give their classrooms another thought until late August.
However, many teachers stay in “teacher mode” for part of the summer at least. For example, they need to continue their professional development in order to maintain their credentials or climb the salary ladder. And we can use summer months for that (if we can afford the tuition or travel costs it often entails).
Computer Project instructor Jade Tippet learned how to teach Digital Animation in East Los Angeles for a few days, and math teacher Leslie Banta came back from an AP Calculus Institute this summer ready with some exciting ideas for her classes.
English teacher David Spain enjoyed touring the Steinbeck Center in Salinas, finding new inspiration to teach American Literature. US History instructor Natalie Perry “ate, slept and breathed real American history for nearly 3 weeks” as she toured buildings and monuments throughout historically-rich Eastern states.
Perry added, “I came home with a renewed love for my subject, great pride in my country, and total inspiration to share all I learned with my kids!”
Art teacher Pilar Crooks kept teaching in the summer, but it was a watercolor painting course (Create!) for fellow teachers; she also took some high school students to the coast to do some plein-air painting. Likewise, Journalism instructor Tonya Sparkes taught a summer course at Mendocino College, but also practiced what she teaches working part-time composing pages and writing occasional articles for the Ukiah Daily Journal.
To increase his gardening potential at home, Ag Science teacher Eric Crawford completed a new greenhouse. Contrary to the popular quote of G. B. Shaw, “He who can, does. He who cannot, teaches,” (very UNpopular with teachers) we often CAN do, yet still opt to teach.
A great example of that is Suzette Cook-Mankins, newly hired at Ukiah High last year to teach ROP Photography classes and Yearbook. Her professional calendar was packed this summer, including shooting former Vice President Mondale’s family holiday photo, accepting an invitation to do a call-in radio show for KZYX about photography, and continuing her regular Ukiah Daily Journal column “Frame by frame.”
For her personal business, Mankins also set up an online action photo website where customers order from her shots of local youngsters playing several different sports (www.mizdigitalsports.com). And to her personal satisfaction this summer, she cheered, “I finally got a great pic of the white deer up in Ridgewood!”
Other Fine Art instructors Denise Doering (music) and Maria Monti (drama) were busy providing excellent stage entertainment for our community in two summer performances. Monti played a role in the uproariously delightful and well-received “Urinetown – the Musical.” Singing, dancing and acting in the 14-performance run kept her occupied, but at home she worked on her Master’s coursework, plus completed major home improvement projects – great patio, Maria!
Denise’s singing and acting role in “The King and I” was heart-stirring, yet at times comical. As the king’s head wife, Lady Thiang, she contributed much to the audience’s enjoyment of the staged reading, accompanied by the wonderful Ukiah Symphony. Bunny Edwards, an Eagle Peak science teacher, performed the lead role beautifully as the British teacher who opted to go to Siam and teach the king’s children nearly 150 years ago.
Doering, the choral instructor at Ukiah High - plus Pomolita this year, has little time during the school year to perform; this summer opportunity was especially enjoyable to both her and Edwards. Plus, yours truly - who certainly doesn’t teach music, got a kick out of spraying my hair black, kowtowing to the king, shuffling barefoot onstage, and singing with his chorus of wives.
Now, we shuffle back into classrooms again…well, maybe not shuffle. Our newly-charged spirits help us greet over 100 new faces this fall. It’s an exciting challenge; we teachers will continue teaching, because we CAN.
Though teachers aren’t lined up fighting for summer school positions, several keep teaching to get students a step closer to graduation. I’m fortunate for the last twelve years that the Title VII program sends me off campus to work at the Tribal Learning Centers on area Native American rancherias or reservations.
Change of scene and coursework gives me at least some kind of break from the norm. Plus, it’s been a pleasure to go out and see old friends I’ve worked with over the years, watching these youngsters grow up to play integral roles in their tribes’ futures.
If teachers don’t teach, they don’t continue to get paid, since this district pays on a ten-month schedule. And, unlike yesteryear, seasonal jobs are hard to come by. If they’re fortunate to have other sources of income or contributions from a working spouse, it’s possible for those in education to totally pull up stakes and not give their classrooms another thought until late August.
However, many teachers stay in “teacher mode” for part of the summer at least. For example, they need to continue their professional development in order to maintain their credentials or climb the salary ladder. And we can use summer months for that (if we can afford the tuition or travel costs it often entails).
Computer Project instructor Jade Tippet learned how to teach Digital Animation in East Los Angeles for a few days, and math teacher Leslie Banta came back from an AP Calculus Institute this summer ready with some exciting ideas for her classes.
English teacher David Spain enjoyed touring the Steinbeck Center in Salinas, finding new inspiration to teach American Literature. US History instructor Natalie Perry “ate, slept and breathed real American history for nearly 3 weeks” as she toured buildings and monuments throughout historically-rich Eastern states.
Perry added, “I came home with a renewed love for my subject, great pride in my country, and total inspiration to share all I learned with my kids!”
Art teacher Pilar Crooks kept teaching in the summer, but it was a watercolor painting course (Create!) for fellow teachers; she also took some high school students to the coast to do some plein-air painting. Likewise, Journalism instructor Tonya Sparkes taught a summer course at Mendocino College, but also practiced what she teaches working part-time composing pages and writing occasional articles for the Ukiah Daily Journal.
To increase his gardening potential at home, Ag Science teacher Eric Crawford completed a new greenhouse. Contrary to the popular quote of G. B. Shaw, “He who can, does. He who cannot, teaches,” (very UNpopular with teachers) we often CAN do, yet still opt to teach.
A great example of that is Suzette Cook-Mankins, newly hired at Ukiah High last year to teach ROP Photography classes and Yearbook. Her professional calendar was packed this summer, including shooting former Vice President Mondale’s family holiday photo, accepting an invitation to do a call-in radio show for KZYX about photography, and continuing her regular Ukiah Daily Journal column “Frame by frame.”
For her personal business, Mankins also set up an online action photo website where customers order from her shots of local youngsters playing several different sports (www.mizdigitalsports.com). And to her personal satisfaction this summer, she cheered, “I finally got a great pic of the white deer up in Ridgewood!”
Other Fine Art instructors Denise Doering (music) and Maria Monti (drama) were busy providing excellent stage entertainment for our community in two summer performances. Monti played a role in the uproariously delightful and well-received “Urinetown – the Musical.” Singing, dancing and acting in the 14-performance run kept her occupied, but at home she worked on her Master’s coursework, plus completed major home improvement projects – great patio, Maria!
Denise’s singing and acting role in “The King and I” was heart-stirring, yet at times comical. As the king’s head wife, Lady Thiang, she contributed much to the audience’s enjoyment of the staged reading, accompanied by the wonderful Ukiah Symphony. Bunny Edwards, an Eagle Peak science teacher, performed the lead role beautifully as the British teacher who opted to go to Siam and teach the king’s children nearly 150 years ago.
Doering, the choral instructor at Ukiah High - plus Pomolita this year, has little time during the school year to perform; this summer opportunity was especially enjoyable to both her and Edwards. Plus, yours truly - who certainly doesn’t teach music, got a kick out of spraying my hair black, kowtowing to the king, shuffling barefoot onstage, and singing with his chorus of wives.
Now, we shuffle back into classrooms again…well, maybe not shuffle. Our newly-charged spirits help us greet over 100 new faces this fall. It’s an exciting challenge; we teachers will continue teaching, because we CAN.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Who Will Take Care of You?
Let’s toast to growing old and wise! It’s good to keep your chin up about that…getting older can be much maligned. Some think that as they lose their hair and memory, their quality of life also fades. Well, actually, that’s possible. But, I didn’t want to depress you in the first sentence.
You probably will get wiser, no doubt. But will there be any who want to hear it or learn from your experiences? Hope so. Two factors may affect that possibility.
First, boomers and their children are having fewer children, if any. Add that to the fact that boomers will probably live longer than their predecessors; they could end up with no one to see them through those last, physically challenging years.
We do see some strong movement towards extended families – elders staying at home longer, maybe living with or near their grown children. They are the lucky ones. Those giving the care may feel good about it, too, sometimes; but often the toll is high for their sacrifices – even if given willingly.
Yes, it can be emotionally draining, but there is also a practical as well as financial cost to their loving efforts. In fact, a new AARP Public Policy Institute study shows that 34 million unpaid caregivers provide about 21 hours of care per week for a calculated $350 billion dollar cost; that’s an average of $2,400 out of pocket each year spent to help their relative.
Not every parent in their 80’s has a son living next door who can work from home and support his family - while being on call to make runs into Urgent Care Center for the folks. My parents are that lucky, I’m glad to report. Still, it’s hard to watch them start using walkers, complain of hearing aides or try to remember their pills.
Dad turns eighty-six next month and is still able to pack up his keyboard and assorted musical apparatus to go entertain the “old folks” at a few area nursing facilities. He is ever mindful of how much less he can do now than last year. It can’t be easy – or fun, this growing old, I told Dad. But, it’s better than the alternative, we agreed.
After talking to Ukiahan Eileen Bostwick recently, I became more aware of the struggle many elders have just trying to get to the doctor’s office. One example is a woman with no family in the area who no longer drives, but is able to live on her own here in a small town with a good transportation system. However, when her doctor casually refers her to a specialist in Sonoma County, getting to that appointment makes her life very complicated.
Thankfully, volunteers working in a program called Senior Companions, directed by Bostwick, are available to drive the elderly woman down to that office at the prescribed time and not charge a fee. This service can be a lifesaver for many not able to drive themselves or who have no relative caregivers.
Say you’re 83, can walk around a bit, but have some visual problems which make bills and banking difficult. No family lives near and you’re not sure who to trust with your finances; living on your own is still important, so what do you do?
In many areas, but not all, programs like the Senior Companion and Foster Grandparents are available to meet the practical needs of elders who want to stay in their own homes. Locally, these efforts are sponsored and supported by the Mendocino/Lake Area Agency on Aging, a project of North Coast Opportunities.
So far this year, five Senior Companions working with Bostwick provided over 2,000 hours of service and companionship to seventeen homebound seniors. These volunteers - Sam Campagna, Joy Legg, Joan Martella, Minnie Marchall and John Rauch not only transport their senior ‘clients’ to medical appointments, grocery stores, senior centers for socialization and to church, but help with rehabilitation exercises, paperwork or sometimes just listen and chat – be their companions.
Bostwick often says her local volunteers are “truly angels on earth.” Go visit a ‘rest home’ to see the loneliness these local helpers can alleviate. When clients were asked how they’d feel if they didn’t have their Senior Companions, all their responses sounded somber:
“…I’d be sad and depressed…I’d probably have to move someplace – I couldn’t live alone…I’d feel a little left out, something missing…pretty lost.”
Not only is this program great for clients, but volunteers reap good rewards, too. Certainly the joy of helping others is paramount. But, along with training, they also receive an annual physical, supplemental insurance, help with meal and transportation costs; plus a small stipend is available to those who qualify. Volunteers must be over 60 years old and have twenty hours available per week to give. Call 462-1954 for more information.
As the huge graying of America continues, we must look for better and innovative ways to make sure everyone gets not only the medical care they need, but also other practical daily help and companionship. The end of our journey should be as meaningful as the beginning.
You probably will get wiser, no doubt. But will there be any who want to hear it or learn from your experiences? Hope so. Two factors may affect that possibility.
First, boomers and their children are having fewer children, if any. Add that to the fact that boomers will probably live longer than their predecessors; they could end up with no one to see them through those last, physically challenging years.
We do see some strong movement towards extended families – elders staying at home longer, maybe living with or near their grown children. They are the lucky ones. Those giving the care may feel good about it, too, sometimes; but often the toll is high for their sacrifices – even if given willingly.
Yes, it can be emotionally draining, but there is also a practical as well as financial cost to their loving efforts. In fact, a new AARP Public Policy Institute study shows that 34 million unpaid caregivers provide about 21 hours of care per week for a calculated $350 billion dollar cost; that’s an average of $2,400 out of pocket each year spent to help their relative.
Not every parent in their 80’s has a son living next door who can work from home and support his family - while being on call to make runs into Urgent Care Center for the folks. My parents are that lucky, I’m glad to report. Still, it’s hard to watch them start using walkers, complain of hearing aides or try to remember their pills.
Dad turns eighty-six next month and is still able to pack up his keyboard and assorted musical apparatus to go entertain the “old folks” at a few area nursing facilities. He is ever mindful of how much less he can do now than last year. It can’t be easy – or fun, this growing old, I told Dad. But, it’s better than the alternative, we agreed.
After talking to Ukiahan Eileen Bostwick recently, I became more aware of the struggle many elders have just trying to get to the doctor’s office. One example is a woman with no family in the area who no longer drives, but is able to live on her own here in a small town with a good transportation system. However, when her doctor casually refers her to a specialist in Sonoma County, getting to that appointment makes her life very complicated.
Thankfully, volunteers working in a program called Senior Companions, directed by Bostwick, are available to drive the elderly woman down to that office at the prescribed time and not charge a fee. This service can be a lifesaver for many not able to drive themselves or who have no relative caregivers.
Say you’re 83, can walk around a bit, but have some visual problems which make bills and banking difficult. No family lives near and you’re not sure who to trust with your finances; living on your own is still important, so what do you do?
In many areas, but not all, programs like the Senior Companion and Foster Grandparents are available to meet the practical needs of elders who want to stay in their own homes. Locally, these efforts are sponsored and supported by the Mendocino/Lake Area Agency on Aging, a project of North Coast Opportunities.
So far this year, five Senior Companions working with Bostwick provided over 2,000 hours of service and companionship to seventeen homebound seniors. These volunteers - Sam Campagna, Joy Legg, Joan Martella, Minnie Marchall and John Rauch not only transport their senior ‘clients’ to medical appointments, grocery stores, senior centers for socialization and to church, but help with rehabilitation exercises, paperwork or sometimes just listen and chat – be their companions.
Bostwick often says her local volunteers are “truly angels on earth.” Go visit a ‘rest home’ to see the loneliness these local helpers can alleviate. When clients were asked how they’d feel if they didn’t have their Senior Companions, all their responses sounded somber:
“…I’d be sad and depressed…I’d probably have to move someplace – I couldn’t live alone…I’d feel a little left out, something missing…pretty lost.”
Not only is this program great for clients, but volunteers reap good rewards, too. Certainly the joy of helping others is paramount. But, along with training, they also receive an annual physical, supplemental insurance, help with meal and transportation costs; plus a small stipend is available to those who qualify. Volunteers must be over 60 years old and have twenty hours available per week to give. Call 462-1954 for more information.
As the huge graying of America continues, we must look for better and innovative ways to make sure everyone gets not only the medical care they need, but also other practical daily help and companionship. The end of our journey should be as meaningful as the beginning.
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Potter-mania thrives despite embargoes and bans
It’s hard to compare, I know, but I don’t recall anyone standing in line at a book store forty years ago waiting for the newest Nancy Drew or Hardy Boys mystery to be unveiled. What a difference a few decades of high-tech hype make!
A couple hundred fans squeezed into our own independent bookseller, Mendocino Book Company, for the Saturday, July 21, 12:01 a.m. countdown to celebrate the new Harry Potter release. After competing in contests, watching Potter films and munching popcorn, then more schmoozing and book-talking, I watched with other locals as bookstore owner Ann Kilkenny refused to open the guarded cartons of books one second too soon.
With seven Harry Potter novels – and no more to come, J.K. Rowling has by chance, then by design, placed her phenomenal and controversial series in the forefront of today’s readers of all ages. The internationally-renowned series may have grown darker, but its popularity has not faded; rather, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows parks at the number one spot on bestseller lists – as expected.
Helping to build Potter momentum was the calculated release of the fifth Harry Potter film on July 10. The midnight opening show was filled to capacity, overflowing with Potter-mania. Customary for Ukiah’s Regal Theater Potter film openings, Caleb Meek-Bradley continued as honorary emcee dressed in his Hogwarts cloak and other Potter fixtures – the hairdo, black-rimmed glasses and necktie. Armed with his wand, recent Ukiahi grad Caleb (Potter) warmed up the audience with trivia questions during the last few minutes before show time. A great number of those costumed fans were again seen in their regalia at the new book release party. These were not just pre-teens, but adolescents and adults as well!
Rowling may not be the first series writer to capture and hold universal interest; but she is doing it right now and very successfully - with readers aged 7 to 70. That’s hard to do – just ask most authors! Billed originally as children’s literature, her books are also a hit with mainstream, adult audiences whether they speak English , Greek or …Parseltongue.
How popular are they? Well, though an embargo was in effect until 12:01 a.m. last Saturday, July 21, the mail arrival of some books (what a weight on postal shoulders!) plus scanned pages via the internet made it available early to unscrupulous fans. But, don’t worry, I won’t spoil the end for you – in fact, I’m just now reading book six. Yes, I lag behind; but I always get there.
Rowling’s official and very interesting website (http://www.jkrowling.com/) is her personal attempt to handle the constant deluge of fan responses to her writing. A better example of a young, struggling writer’s success story is hard to find. But, some would definitely like to shorten her time in the sun.
Her books of fantasy (a fact many critics and hard-line Christians often forget) have perhaps put a metaphorical spell on many of us. But, it’s hard not to see ourselves in her characters and their struggles with fate and with each other. Admit it - countless stories of witches and spells have entertained children for the last few centuries!
Controversy can work magic for a writer’s book sales; her books’ banning by alarmists and “goodness protectors” is not necessarily a bad thing. Her statement during last year’s Banned Book Week (posted on her webpage) admits, “Once again, the Harry Potter books are featured on this year’s list of must-banned books. As this puts me in the company of Harper Lee, Mark Twain, J.D. Salinger, William Golding, John Steinbeck and other writers I revere, I have always taken my annual inclusion on the list as a great honour. ‘Every burned book enlightens the world.’ Ralph Waldo Emerson.”
One embargo-breaker reviewed the book a day before its release, but thankfully didn’t spoil much. New York Times Writer Michiko Kakutani did say it is, “a somber book that marks Harry’s final initiation into the complexities and sadnesses of adulthood.”
No matter your age, you can feel for Harry – either you’re in the throes of growing up, or you can recall the hard-flung emotions which chipped away at the child in each of us. Potter’s magic attracts us to Rowling’s characters; we would like some magic added to our life stories, perhaps.
Staying up late – again with Potter-costumed Ukiahans was a novelty for me, but I discovered via the internet some lengths to which many Potter fans went to celebrate. Dropping countdown balls, together with fireworks and popular bands playing across the globe, fans found numerous exciting ways to usher in the last of this book’s era. What is exciting for bibliophiles like me is to see such a to-do about a book that millions of people will stand in line to buy for $35.
What is the big deal? Arthur A. Levine, the Scholastic editor who first bought the United States rights for Rowling’s book, says “I think there is something that is extremely special about having lived through the first wave…But when I read Jane Austen for the first time, I didn’t feel like ‘Darn, I wish I’d been there when Jane was out there letting them go for the first time.’ ”
At the end of the day, Levine said in a Times article, a reader’s experience is a “special, one-on-one intimate experience whenever you have it.” To which I say, “Amen – and thank you, Ms. Rowling!”
A couple hundred fans squeezed into our own independent bookseller, Mendocino Book Company, for the Saturday, July 21, 12:01 a.m. countdown to celebrate the new Harry Potter release. After competing in contests, watching Potter films and munching popcorn, then more schmoozing and book-talking, I watched with other locals as bookstore owner Ann Kilkenny refused to open the guarded cartons of books one second too soon.
With seven Harry Potter novels – and no more to come, J.K. Rowling has by chance, then by design, placed her phenomenal and controversial series in the forefront of today’s readers of all ages. The internationally-renowned series may have grown darker, but its popularity has not faded; rather, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows parks at the number one spot on bestseller lists – as expected.
Helping to build Potter momentum was the calculated release of the fifth Harry Potter film on July 10. The midnight opening show was filled to capacity, overflowing with Potter-mania. Customary for Ukiah’s Regal Theater Potter film openings, Caleb Meek-Bradley continued as honorary emcee dressed in his Hogwarts cloak and other Potter fixtures – the hairdo, black-rimmed glasses and necktie. Armed with his wand, recent Ukiahi grad Caleb (Potter) warmed up the audience with trivia questions during the last few minutes before show time. A great number of those costumed fans were again seen in their regalia at the new book release party. These were not just pre-teens, but adolescents and adults as well!
Rowling may not be the first series writer to capture and hold universal interest; but she is doing it right now and very successfully - with readers aged 7 to 70. That’s hard to do – just ask most authors! Billed originally as children’s literature, her books are also a hit with mainstream, adult audiences whether they speak English , Greek or …Parseltongue.
How popular are they? Well, though an embargo was in effect until 12:01 a.m. last Saturday, July 21, the mail arrival of some books (what a weight on postal shoulders!) plus scanned pages via the internet made it available early to unscrupulous fans. But, don’t worry, I won’t spoil the end for you – in fact, I’m just now reading book six. Yes, I lag behind; but I always get there.
Rowling’s official and very interesting website (http://www.jkrowling.com/) is her personal attempt to handle the constant deluge of fan responses to her writing. A better example of a young, struggling writer’s success story is hard to find. But, some would definitely like to shorten her time in the sun.
Her books of fantasy (a fact many critics and hard-line Christians often forget) have perhaps put a metaphorical spell on many of us. But, it’s hard not to see ourselves in her characters and their struggles with fate and with each other. Admit it - countless stories of witches and spells have entertained children for the last few centuries!
Controversy can work magic for a writer’s book sales; her books’ banning by alarmists and “goodness protectors” is not necessarily a bad thing. Her statement during last year’s Banned Book Week (posted on her webpage) admits, “Once again, the Harry Potter books are featured on this year’s list of must-banned books. As this puts me in the company of Harper Lee, Mark Twain, J.D. Salinger, William Golding, John Steinbeck and other writers I revere, I have always taken my annual inclusion on the list as a great honour. ‘Every burned book enlightens the world.’ Ralph Waldo Emerson.”
One embargo-breaker reviewed the book a day before its release, but thankfully didn’t spoil much. New York Times Writer Michiko Kakutani did say it is, “a somber book that marks Harry’s final initiation into the complexities and sadnesses of adulthood.”
No matter your age, you can feel for Harry – either you’re in the throes of growing up, or you can recall the hard-flung emotions which chipped away at the child in each of us. Potter’s magic attracts us to Rowling’s characters; we would like some magic added to our life stories, perhaps.
Staying up late – again with Potter-costumed Ukiahans was a novelty for me, but I discovered via the internet some lengths to which many Potter fans went to celebrate. Dropping countdown balls, together with fireworks and popular bands playing across the globe, fans found numerous exciting ways to usher in the last of this book’s era. What is exciting for bibliophiles like me is to see such a to-do about a book that millions of people will stand in line to buy for $35.
What is the big deal? Arthur A. Levine, the Scholastic editor who first bought the United States rights for Rowling’s book, says “I think there is something that is extremely special about having lived through the first wave…But when I read Jane Austen for the first time, I didn’t feel like ‘Darn, I wish I’d been there when Jane was out there letting them go for the first time.’ ”
At the end of the day, Levine said in a Times article, a reader’s experience is a “special, one-on-one intimate experience whenever you have it.” To which I say, “Amen – and thank you, Ms. Rowling!”
Friday, July 6, 2007
Follow the Green Path
Green light, green-stamp, greenback…we know green is Go! Yes! Yay! How does one color carry so much good-to-go feeling? Connotations are actually something interesting to think about – at least for us wordsmiths. Perhaps you have to go to the literal “root” on this one…the botanical bottom of this story.
Nature provides the process of chlorophyll production which sustains our whole planet. The birth of every leaf portends the future of our food and air. Of course, you need both sunshine and water (yellow & blue) to make green, a formula that works on a color palette as well!
Bombarded with headlines, organizations and catch-phrases that include the word green, I began to ponder green-ness again. Has it become an overused jingle or moniker today? I think so - but very rightly so, I decided. Green does mean LIFE, a color coding for everything most natural and necessary for our survival.
Even our Mendocino County Promotional Alliance is compiling a list of “green” businesses – those who use sustainable practices, in hopes of bringing our county’s 52 local conservation groups together and helping to sell the idea of Mendocino being a Green county, according to a recent Daily Journal article. Our county is green in more than its valleys, trees and plants – including medicinal herbs. Julia Conway of the Alliance admits, “We were green before it was fashionable.” Solar energy know-how and organic wines and ales put Mendocino on the map.
When researching for a column early last spring, I found that many people were involved in huge undertakings of localizing, an effort to conserve our “green” status by going a step further. And, actually, it means NOT going more than 50 or so miles, perhaps, to find essentials for our lives or businesses. The statistic that rocked me, after talking to Arky Ciancutti from Brewery Gulch Inn on the Coast last March, was that 20% of all fuel burned is a result of “moving food.”
The Greater Ukiah Localization Project (GULP) encourages local purchasing and sustenance within our area. The Coast Economic Localized Link (CELL) and Willits Economic LocaLization (WELL) are others in our county marching forward with a strong “green” message.
A seasonal opportunity to buy local is our Farmer’s Market at the Alex Thomas Plaza on Saturday mornings and Tuesday afternoons. Once the nice weather is gone, though, local produce may not be so accessible. We would hope there are indoor gardeners that can supply our local markets with fresh, organic products as much as possible, but we may need more work to achieve that.
GULP also invites interested citizens to help at the Cleveland Community Gardens and asks any other community or shared gardens to keep the group advised on local food production. How - or what does YOUR garden grow? Contact Maureen at moski@pacific.net to get on their mailing list.
Participation in the Ukiah Valley Area Plan (UVAP) allows us a voice in what happens to our communities in more ways than its food sources. Efforts to conserve and preserve will help ensure the viability of our area.
We’re not talking secession or radical politics here; we’re looking at self-reliance and self-sustenance. Can we possibly find everything we need right here in Mendocino or within our region? Possibly, but it may cost more. The price is critical or prohibitive to many, but the philosophy may have a greater impact on us in the long run. What is your future worth? How about the legacy we leave our children and grandchildren?
When I look back on growing up in the 1950’s and 1960’s, I recall the excitement and convenience which plastics, polyester, pesticides and food preservatives offered our parents. These were developed to eliminate their drudgery and hard work, potentially giving them more time to relax and enjoy life. Who knew those improvements would greatly affect our mindset, making us ignore questions of long term effects on our bodies and our planet?
One local songwriter Kristine Robin (also a wonderful musician who warrants her own feature article in the near future!) produced a powerful and inspiring video to accompany her song “One is the Sun.” Link to her presence online at http://www.kristinerobin.com/.
I found myself writing some lyrics over ten years ago – as a concerned parent and questioning adult – wondering what to do about correcting the misguided actions of past decades. I imagined handing my child a gift – our abused planet, which she receives with tears.
I ask her,
“Can’t you ignore a few shortcomings, ozone holes and global warmings?
Just needs a few more landfills, naval graveyards and toxic dumps.
Every world struggles through time and picks up a few bruises and bumps.”
Of course, she takes it, but without gratitude, as I leave the scene.
“Sadly I go, looking o’er my shoulder to watch her.
Working with love, she restores and waters her wildflower lawn,
caresses a cloud, protects her wood.”
Perhaps with music and poetry, as well as policy changes and hard work, we can eventually heal our world. We must try.
Nature provides the process of chlorophyll production which sustains our whole planet. The birth of every leaf portends the future of our food and air. Of course, you need both sunshine and water (yellow & blue) to make green, a formula that works on a color palette as well!
Bombarded with headlines, organizations and catch-phrases that include the word green, I began to ponder green-ness again. Has it become an overused jingle or moniker today? I think so - but very rightly so, I decided. Green does mean LIFE, a color coding for everything most natural and necessary for our survival.
Even our Mendocino County Promotional Alliance is compiling a list of “green” businesses – those who use sustainable practices, in hopes of bringing our county’s 52 local conservation groups together and helping to sell the idea of Mendocino being a Green county, according to a recent Daily Journal article. Our county is green in more than its valleys, trees and plants – including medicinal herbs. Julia Conway of the Alliance admits, “We were green before it was fashionable.” Solar energy know-how and organic wines and ales put Mendocino on the map.
When researching for a column early last spring, I found that many people were involved in huge undertakings of localizing, an effort to conserve our “green” status by going a step further. And, actually, it means NOT going more than 50 or so miles, perhaps, to find essentials for our lives or businesses. The statistic that rocked me, after talking to Arky Ciancutti from Brewery Gulch Inn on the Coast last March, was that 20% of all fuel burned is a result of “moving food.”
The Greater Ukiah Localization Project (GULP) encourages local purchasing and sustenance within our area. The Coast Economic Localized Link (CELL) and Willits Economic LocaLization (WELL) are others in our county marching forward with a strong “green” message.
A seasonal opportunity to buy local is our Farmer’s Market at the Alex Thomas Plaza on Saturday mornings and Tuesday afternoons. Once the nice weather is gone, though, local produce may not be so accessible. We would hope there are indoor gardeners that can supply our local markets with fresh, organic products as much as possible, but we may need more work to achieve that.
GULP also invites interested citizens to help at the Cleveland Community Gardens and asks any other community or shared gardens to keep the group advised on local food production. How - or what does YOUR garden grow? Contact Maureen at moski@pacific.net to get on their mailing list.
Participation in the Ukiah Valley Area Plan (UVAP) allows us a voice in what happens to our communities in more ways than its food sources. Efforts to conserve and preserve will help ensure the viability of our area.
We’re not talking secession or radical politics here; we’re looking at self-reliance and self-sustenance. Can we possibly find everything we need right here in Mendocino or within our region? Possibly, but it may cost more. The price is critical or prohibitive to many, but the philosophy may have a greater impact on us in the long run. What is your future worth? How about the legacy we leave our children and grandchildren?
When I look back on growing up in the 1950’s and 1960’s, I recall the excitement and convenience which plastics, polyester, pesticides and food preservatives offered our parents. These were developed to eliminate their drudgery and hard work, potentially giving them more time to relax and enjoy life. Who knew those improvements would greatly affect our mindset, making us ignore questions of long term effects on our bodies and our planet?
One local songwriter Kristine Robin (also a wonderful musician who warrants her own feature article in the near future!) produced a powerful and inspiring video to accompany her song “One is the Sun.” Link to her presence online at http://www.kristinerobin.com/.
I found myself writing some lyrics over ten years ago – as a concerned parent and questioning adult – wondering what to do about correcting the misguided actions of past decades. I imagined handing my child a gift – our abused planet, which she receives with tears.
I ask her,
“Can’t you ignore a few shortcomings, ozone holes and global warmings?
Just needs a few more landfills, naval graveyards and toxic dumps.
Every world struggles through time and picks up a few bruises and bumps.”
Of course, she takes it, but without gratitude, as I leave the scene.
“Sadly I go, looking o’er my shoulder to watch her.
Working with love, she restores and waters her wildflower lawn,
caresses a cloud, protects her wood.”
Perhaps with music and poetry, as well as policy changes and hard work, we can eventually heal our world. We must try.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Make the Musical Connection
First, a big “Thank You” goes out to my 85-year-young dad. Yes, it’s Father’s Day, and I love him; but today’s thanks is for the love of music generated throughout my life by both him and my mother. Not a day went by without music in their home.
That love of music is a legacy I will enjoy until I’m at least 85, I hope! Although not presently singing in any public setting, I have been discovering a wealth of local singers/songwriters in the last few weeks. It’s mind-boggling how much fantastic talent is available in this area alone!
We’ve been touched for several years by the beautiful singing and strumming of a father (guitar) and son (violin) on the streets and stages of Ukiah – Brad and Julian McClanahan. This father definitely has encouraged a love of music not only in his son and family, but all of us co-workers and fellow citizens as well.
Now formally joined by Michael Charnes and known as The Julian Trio, their lilting and lovely Celtic-influenced tunes, plus other folk-style music is impressive, especially knowing that their songs are original compositions. This father-son music cooperative is very enjoyable to see and hear!
Their recent release, Lighthouse on a Cliff, contains wonderful instrumentals – lovely waltzes are my favorite, and nice vocal arrangements invoking a timeless connection to nature and harmony with those we love. Some songs openly honor family members: Annalise’s Waltz and Momma’s Mandolin, for example.
In fact, Julian’s first composition was at age four (“I Love Mama”) and by age seven was performing original songs in public with Dad. Now, at age ten, Julian will be traveling with his family to live in Mexico while Brad takes a sabbatical from teaching at Ukiah High School. Our love and best wishes go with them!
Of course, there are many other performers – too numerous to feature in this article, who bring wonderful music to our theaters, restaurants, parks and churches - for those willing to go and listen. Making it out to Ukiah Brewing Company’s open mic lately reaped connections for me to some excellent singers and musicians.
Former Ukiah mayor Sheridan Malone sang his “swan songs” last month before moving back East (for only two years, he says), and I was fortunate to hear some of his very creative pieces; especially entertaining was “Retread.” You can just imagine using such a metaphor for a love gone bad. Written by an auto-parts-kind of guy, of course. I was in stitches.
These Wednesday evenings hosted by Jim Tuhtan (of Jitterbox Music) feature lots of good musicians, another of which was Patrick Nagel. Patrick entertains Ukiahans at many local events. Pictured here, he serenades passersby at the recent Pastels on the Plaza in Ukiah's Alex Thomas Plaza.
Patrick’s presence online is extensive – check it out at http://www.nagelations.com/home.html. His music has been honored several times by web audiences through www.garageband.com. Cdbaby.com also features his work. Haunting, romantic lines like this strike a chord in my heart, along with many other listeners, I’m sure: “…if I could sit beside you, we’d heal your broken heart with love.”
Through these contacts, I also discovered several intimate venues that give opportunities to professional, established musicians traveling through this area – house concerts. At one large, older home in downtown Ukiah, I enjoyed an evening listening to Dana Lyons, a favorite of many local music enthusiasts.
His compositions are terrifically witty, often absurd, but entirely refreshing! Many songs are also serious and caution listeners to put first important things like family, good communication and harmony with nature. But…then there is a worldwide favorite like “Cows With Guns.”
This extreme misadventure of a “cow guru” who has had enough from humans, is filled with wit, humor, and laughingly bad puns. It was purloined by online video artists, but through Dana’s insistence, now credits his songwriting in their world wide web hit production and a YouTube favorite!
I don’t know about you, but I am ready for a big, robust summer of music. And, you don’t have to leave Ukiah to find it. Our music fix can be satisfied every week, in fact. New this summer and alternating with our bi-weekly Sunday Concerts in the Park is Spencer Brewer’s Acoustic Café every other Saturday evening in the Ukiah Music Center’s back courtyard.
A free, cabaret-style setting, these concerts feature many local performers Kitty Rose, The Bootniks, Alex de Grassi, Top Shelf, Rootstock, Bejazzled, Will Siegel & friends, Paula Samonte, and, of course, Spencer and his fellow pianists!
Music is one of the finest ways to bring people together. Eat, drink, and sing along this summer! And, thanks again, Dad, for making that musical connection.
That love of music is a legacy I will enjoy until I’m at least 85, I hope! Although not presently singing in any public setting, I have been discovering a wealth of local singers/songwriters in the last few weeks. It’s mind-boggling how much fantastic talent is available in this area alone!
We’ve been touched for several years by the beautiful singing and strumming of a father (guitar) and son (violin) on the streets and stages of Ukiah – Brad and Julian McClanahan. This father definitely has encouraged a love of music not only in his son and family, but all of us co-workers and fellow citizens as well.
Now formally joined by Michael Charnes and known as The Julian Trio, their lilting and lovely Celtic-influenced tunes, plus other folk-style music is impressive, especially knowing that their songs are original compositions. This father-son music cooperative is very enjoyable to see and hear!
Their recent release, Lighthouse on a Cliff, contains wonderful instrumentals – lovely waltzes are my favorite, and nice vocal arrangements invoking a timeless connection to nature and harmony with those we love. Some songs openly honor family members: Annalise’s Waltz and Momma’s Mandolin, for example.
In fact, Julian’s first composition was at age four (“I Love Mama”) and by age seven was performing original songs in public with Dad. Now, at age ten, Julian will be traveling with his family to live in Mexico while Brad takes a sabbatical from teaching at Ukiah High School. Our love and best wishes go with them!
Of course, there are many other performers – too numerous to feature in this article, who bring wonderful music to our theaters, restaurants, parks and churches - for those willing to go and listen. Making it out to Ukiah Brewing Company’s open mic lately reaped connections for me to some excellent singers and musicians.
Former Ukiah mayor Sheridan Malone sang his “swan songs” last month before moving back East (for only two years, he says), and I was fortunate to hear some of his very creative pieces; especially entertaining was “Retread.” You can just imagine using such a metaphor for a love gone bad. Written by an auto-parts-kind of guy, of course. I was in stitches.
These Wednesday evenings hosted by Jim Tuhtan (of Jitterbox Music) feature lots of good musicians, another of which was Patrick Nagel. Patrick entertains Ukiahans at many local events. Pictured here, he serenades passersby at the recent Pastels on the Plaza in Ukiah's Alex Thomas Plaza.
Patrick’s presence online is extensive – check it out at http://www.nagelations.com/home.html. His music has been honored several times by web audiences through www.garageband.com. Cdbaby.com also features his work. Haunting, romantic lines like this strike a chord in my heart, along with many other listeners, I’m sure: “…if I could sit beside you, we’d heal your broken heart with love.”
Through these contacts, I also discovered several intimate venues that give opportunities to professional, established musicians traveling through this area – house concerts. At one large, older home in downtown Ukiah, I enjoyed an evening listening to Dana Lyons, a favorite of many local music enthusiasts.
His compositions are terrifically witty, often absurd, but entirely refreshing! Many songs are also serious and caution listeners to put first important things like family, good communication and harmony with nature. But…then there is a worldwide favorite like “Cows With Guns.”
This extreme misadventure of a “cow guru” who has had enough from humans, is filled with wit, humor, and laughingly bad puns. It was purloined by online video artists, but through Dana’s insistence, now credits his songwriting in their world wide web hit production and a YouTube favorite!
I don’t know about you, but I am ready for a big, robust summer of music. And, you don’t have to leave Ukiah to find it. Our music fix can be satisfied every week, in fact. New this summer and alternating with our bi-weekly Sunday Concerts in the Park is Spencer Brewer’s Acoustic Café every other Saturday evening in the Ukiah Music Center’s back courtyard.
A free, cabaret-style setting, these concerts feature many local performers Kitty Rose, The Bootniks, Alex de Grassi, Top Shelf, Rootstock, Bejazzled, Will Siegel & friends, Paula Samonte, and, of course, Spencer and his fellow pianists!
Music is one of the finest ways to bring people together. Eat, drink, and sing along this summer! And, thanks again, Dad, for making that musical connection.
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Mendocino Word Lovers, Celebrate!
Confess! Admit you’re a word lover – or you wouldn’t be reading right now, perhaps. If you’re like me, you can’t possibly keep up with all the good books or authors out there; but, we keep trying!
Mendocino County’s most recent effort to help us is with the upcoming 2007 “Celebration of Word Lovers: Mendocino LitFest.” We’re in for a converging of emergent and established writers – sharing with us their poetry, memoirs or novels. And, this celebration is not just for some, but for all ages.
Many have read and revered the words of Gary Soto as we’ve grown up, with his California settings providing the backdrop for teen angst and family conflict. The keynote speaker of the LitFest, Soto will share with us as fellow humans and hopefully inspire fellow writers as well.
Another of my favorite authors in the Lit event is Dylan Schaffer – also a Californian. His two witty whodunits “Misdemeanor Man” and “I Right the Wrongs” are among the books I share with friends most often. Plus, he’s been featured in my column more than once.
The author lineup contains a couple dozen local and regional writers whose work is vast in its array of styles and topics. Check out all the biographies on the LitFest website. Editors and publishers will also be presenting vital information to aspiring writers who attend. Print out the event and workshop schedule available online. Click on www.mendolitfest.org/index.html.
A first-time book author, Claudia Crosetti, will be displaying her recently published “Rocks in My Pockets: Travels with Dad” at her own LitFest vendor booth. Since she isn’t featured on the website, I wanted to find out more about her publishing venture, so I interviewed Claudia and subsequently read her travel memoir.
Initially written as a journal of her trip to Italy with her father, Victor, her family suggested she publish for present and future relatives to enjoy. She found herself weaving in with that journey an earlier trip she took that also changed her life – with fellow breast cancer survivors to Argentina’s Mt. Aconcagua.
In Italy, Claudia and her father journey by foot and rail, disregarding more typical tourist paths. Visiting Venice with its canals and complete lack of vehicles then winding their way down to Rome with its “open, expansive” feel, the father-daughter duo indulges in the stimulating sights, sounds - and tastes.
Staying mostly in small apartments (pensiones), her detailed, colorful descriptions of their travels are eye and ear-candy for many of us who will never go there, each day usually beginning with a cappuccino and ending with another flavor of gelato. Of course, in between, we learn of strength and survival - not only of physical culture, but of personal growth as well.
Claudia feels anyone can benefit from creating their own travel or personal journals; it helps us to maintain perspective, she advises. She was fortunate to have a mentor writer who encouraged her to take it a step further. Although she admits her final composition was a “fun, but sometimes agonizing process,” she is now ready to partake of the fruits of her labor.
Deciding to “print on demand” through iUniverse (http://www.iuniverse.com/) was a positive experience. Although Claudia discovered how much work is involved – like many other writers who may even have their books bought by larger publishers today, she is not daunted by the marketing and schmoozing that writers must do to sell their own product.
She is proud of her hard work, of “taking the reader on two ventures,” and hopes they will enjoy the ride. Her blog is now set up for potential perusers and purchasers at ccrosetti.blogspot.com. Plus, she will be reading at our local Mendocino Book Company on Thursday evening, June 21st at 6:30 p.m. where her book is available, in addition to Amazon and Barnes & Noble’s online stores.
Another local woman writer will feature her first book in a LitFest vendor booth. Mary Zellachild, whose information is also not included in the festival’s billing, will be showcasing her novel, “Transitions.”
Her story focuses on a “sense of place and nature – a spiritual connection” as she follows three cousins who return to a grandparent’s property on the Mendocino Coast they now inherit as fifty-something’s. We flash back to their youth and learn – with them, of those vital human and land connections that years of living cannot erase.
Zellachild’s personal life exhibits these firm beliefs through her efforts on the coordinating committee of the Willits Economic LocaLization (W.E.L.L.) movement. In addition to her job working for international agri-businessman John Jeavons, she is now marketing her novel which she self-published. It will be available soon at local stores, plus online at Booklocker.com/books/2883.html.
So, all you word and book lovers, please mark your calendar for this Friday and Saturday’s events held at the Mendocino College campus. Celebrate our local writers!
Mendocino County’s most recent effort to help us is with the upcoming 2007 “Celebration of Word Lovers: Mendocino LitFest.” We’re in for a converging of emergent and established writers – sharing with us their poetry, memoirs or novels. And, this celebration is not just for some, but for all ages.
Many have read and revered the words of Gary Soto as we’ve grown up, with his California settings providing the backdrop for teen angst and family conflict. The keynote speaker of the LitFest, Soto will share with us as fellow humans and hopefully inspire fellow writers as well.
Another of my favorite authors in the Lit event is Dylan Schaffer – also a Californian. His two witty whodunits “Misdemeanor Man” and “I Right the Wrongs” are among the books I share with friends most often. Plus, he’s been featured in my column more than once.
The author lineup contains a couple dozen local and regional writers whose work is vast in its array of styles and topics. Check out all the biographies on the LitFest website. Editors and publishers will also be presenting vital information to aspiring writers who attend. Print out the event and workshop schedule available online. Click on www.mendolitfest.org/index.html.
A first-time book author, Claudia Crosetti, will be displaying her recently published “Rocks in My Pockets: Travels with Dad” at her own LitFest vendor booth. Since she isn’t featured on the website, I wanted to find out more about her publishing venture, so I interviewed Claudia and subsequently read her travel memoir.
Initially written as a journal of her trip to Italy with her father, Victor, her family suggested she publish for present and future relatives to enjoy. She found herself weaving in with that journey an earlier trip she took that also changed her life – with fellow breast cancer survivors to Argentina’s Mt. Aconcagua.
In Italy, Claudia and her father journey by foot and rail, disregarding more typical tourist paths. Visiting Venice with its canals and complete lack of vehicles then winding their way down to Rome with its “open, expansive” feel, the father-daughter duo indulges in the stimulating sights, sounds - and tastes.
Staying mostly in small apartments (pensiones), her detailed, colorful descriptions of their travels are eye and ear-candy for many of us who will never go there, each day usually beginning with a cappuccino and ending with another flavor of gelato. Of course, in between, we learn of strength and survival - not only of physical culture, but of personal growth as well.
Claudia feels anyone can benefit from creating their own travel or personal journals; it helps us to maintain perspective, she advises. She was fortunate to have a mentor writer who encouraged her to take it a step further. Although she admits her final composition was a “fun, but sometimes agonizing process,” she is now ready to partake of the fruits of her labor.
Deciding to “print on demand” through iUniverse (http://www.iuniverse.com/) was a positive experience. Although Claudia discovered how much work is involved – like many other writers who may even have their books bought by larger publishers today, she is not daunted by the marketing and schmoozing that writers must do to sell their own product.
She is proud of her hard work, of “taking the reader on two ventures,” and hopes they will enjoy the ride. Her blog is now set up for potential perusers and purchasers at ccrosetti.blogspot.com. Plus, she will be reading at our local Mendocino Book Company on Thursday evening, June 21st at 6:30 p.m. where her book is available, in addition to Amazon and Barnes & Noble’s online stores.
Another local woman writer will feature her first book in a LitFest vendor booth. Mary Zellachild, whose information is also not included in the festival’s billing, will be showcasing her novel, “Transitions.”
Her story focuses on a “sense of place and nature – a spiritual connection” as she follows three cousins who return to a grandparent’s property on the Mendocino Coast they now inherit as fifty-something’s. We flash back to their youth and learn – with them, of those vital human and land connections that years of living cannot erase.
Zellachild’s personal life exhibits these firm beliefs through her efforts on the coordinating committee of the Willits Economic LocaLization (W.E.L.L.) movement. In addition to her job working for international agri-businessman John Jeavons, she is now marketing her novel which she self-published. It will be available soon at local stores, plus online at Booklocker.com/books/2883.html.
So, all you word and book lovers, please mark your calendar for this Friday and Saturday’s events held at the Mendocino College campus. Celebrate our local writers!
Sunday, May 6, 2007
Civility is a choice
It’s the simple things in life that can give great rewards. Forget bouquets and trophies; most of us are grateful for good manners or kind words spoken to us by – anyone.
Feeling worn on a recent Friday afternoon, a few teacher friends and I found ourselves cheering a bit (good food and drink helped, too) as we recalled thoughtful parting comments from our day’s “clients.”
“Several students leaving my classes today stopped to tell me, ‘Have a good weekend, Ms. Warda.’”
Those teens, chatting and chipper, had the anticipation of the upcoming prom stirring in their souls, yet some made the effort to grace their tired old teacher with a positive farewell; they had no idea how much that means. Just when you want to give up, give out or give in – a kind word helps. It is refreshing to see that some parents have modeled good manners to their young.
Humans do not naturally act altruistic; it’s not an instinct for us, I believe. Our species has survived in part due to its cunning and strategy. Kindness doesn’t put you on top of the food chain.
I can post my BP Rules all over my classroom and point to them every day, but that won’t necessarily make students “Be Prompt, Be Prepared, and Be Polite!” But, I can model and mention them – and hope they CHOOSE to obey these Basic Principles.
Civility can win you friends and create harmony, but may not propel you up the career ladder or help you make your first million any quicker. Yet, if you study the psychology of good manners, you find that ego IS what often develops kind natures.
We learn when very young, hopefully, that saying “please” and “thank you” may bring us success. We may get what we want by saying those “magic” words. At least, it increases our odds and usually works on folks when we’re children, anyway.
Admit it – even as adults, we’ve all buttered up somebody of whom we want to ask a favor. Weren’t we taught that you get more by using honey than vinegar? So…being polite is usually good for us. Then, why are there so many doggone rude people in our world?
The big EGO is to blame for that as well. When we think so much of ourselves that we can’t imagine being the other person, we may not treat them as we’d like to be treated. We know the Golden Rule; but a strong sense of self may also prevent us from doing the kind deed or being generous at our expense.
I just finished one of the most entertaining nonfiction books I’ve read in a long time – hands down! It’s called “Talk to the Hand” by Lynne Truss, a British woman with a great sense of humor and wit.
Much of today’s rudeness is because we don’t think of other people; we cannot possibly be polite without consideration of others’ feelings. We all know we can’t give everyone what they want; life’s disappointments are often our reality. But, the importance of the “other” is monumental within society; we are social creatures who must adhere to basic civility or forfeit any possible joy or satisfaction of life on this planet.
Truss discusses many scenarios where civility – or lack of it affects us. At one point, she talks about being kind to retail clerks, especially if they serve you right after another customer has mistreated them. If you try to sympathize, she relates that their response may not be the one you expect because, sadly, many folks in retail can only survive by not noticing or caring about a customer’s rudeness.
“This makes it quite hard to go through the ensuing politeness display without feeling self-conscious, or even quaint. ‘May I please have it wrapped separately?’ you ask, with your smile fading. ‘Thank you, that’s perfect, how kind you are.’ The ground starts to slip from under you, as no validating response comes your way, yet you are powerless to stop being polite and old-fashioned. ‘And what a fine morning, forsooth!’ you exclaim. ‘Ha. By God’s breath, thou hast a cunning way with yon mechanical abacus! Hast thou a quill-pen prithee? Or mayhap I must digitate upon yon artful keypad?’” (Her digression into Shakespearean style is especially witty to Anglophiles!)
Unlike the “old days” where only face-to-face communication existed, we now can be rude to anyone in the world via the internet. When we are faceless and anonymous, there is not the same need to treat people with consideration.
Someone has even proposed a Blogger Code of Conduct, which discourages postings online that we wouldn’t say in person. Check it out on this website - http://radar.oreilly.com/archives/2007/03/call_for_a_blog_1.html
Well, that might eliminate a few…but some mighty rude comments are made everyday to our faces, as well as on blogs, in chat rooms, or on the air by people who have too much ego and not enough basic social graces. Not everyone makes it into the headlines like Don Imus.
Give people their free speech; however, wouldn’t it be nice if we chose to say things which made the world a better place?
Feeling worn on a recent Friday afternoon, a few teacher friends and I found ourselves cheering a bit (good food and drink helped, too) as we recalled thoughtful parting comments from our day’s “clients.”
“Several students leaving my classes today stopped to tell me, ‘Have a good weekend, Ms. Warda.’”
Those teens, chatting and chipper, had the anticipation of the upcoming prom stirring in their souls, yet some made the effort to grace their tired old teacher with a positive farewell; they had no idea how much that means. Just when you want to give up, give out or give in – a kind word helps. It is refreshing to see that some parents have modeled good manners to their young.
Humans do not naturally act altruistic; it’s not an instinct for us, I believe. Our species has survived in part due to its cunning and strategy. Kindness doesn’t put you on top of the food chain.
I can post my BP Rules all over my classroom and point to them every day, but that won’t necessarily make students “Be Prompt, Be Prepared, and Be Polite!” But, I can model and mention them – and hope they CHOOSE to obey these Basic Principles.
Civility can win you friends and create harmony, but may not propel you up the career ladder or help you make your first million any quicker. Yet, if you study the psychology of good manners, you find that ego IS what often develops kind natures.
We learn when very young, hopefully, that saying “please” and “thank you” may bring us success. We may get what we want by saying those “magic” words. At least, it increases our odds and usually works on folks when we’re children, anyway.
Admit it – even as adults, we’ve all buttered up somebody of whom we want to ask a favor. Weren’t we taught that you get more by using honey than vinegar? So…being polite is usually good for us. Then, why are there so many doggone rude people in our world?
The big EGO is to blame for that as well. When we think so much of ourselves that we can’t imagine being the other person, we may not treat them as we’d like to be treated. We know the Golden Rule; but a strong sense of self may also prevent us from doing the kind deed or being generous at our expense.
I just finished one of the most entertaining nonfiction books I’ve read in a long time – hands down! It’s called “Talk to the Hand” by Lynne Truss, a British woman with a great sense of humor and wit.
Much of today’s rudeness is because we don’t think of other people; we cannot possibly be polite without consideration of others’ feelings. We all know we can’t give everyone what they want; life’s disappointments are often our reality. But, the importance of the “other” is monumental within society; we are social creatures who must adhere to basic civility or forfeit any possible joy or satisfaction of life on this planet.
Truss discusses many scenarios where civility – or lack of it affects us. At one point, she talks about being kind to retail clerks, especially if they serve you right after another customer has mistreated them. If you try to sympathize, she relates that their response may not be the one you expect because, sadly, many folks in retail can only survive by not noticing or caring about a customer’s rudeness.
“This makes it quite hard to go through the ensuing politeness display without feeling self-conscious, or even quaint. ‘May I please have it wrapped separately?’ you ask, with your smile fading. ‘Thank you, that’s perfect, how kind you are.’ The ground starts to slip from under you, as no validating response comes your way, yet you are powerless to stop being polite and old-fashioned. ‘And what a fine morning, forsooth!’ you exclaim. ‘Ha. By God’s breath, thou hast a cunning way with yon mechanical abacus! Hast thou a quill-pen prithee? Or mayhap I must digitate upon yon artful keypad?’” (Her digression into Shakespearean style is especially witty to Anglophiles!)
Unlike the “old days” where only face-to-face communication existed, we now can be rude to anyone in the world via the internet. When we are faceless and anonymous, there is not the same need to treat people with consideration.
Someone has even proposed a Blogger Code of Conduct, which discourages postings online that we wouldn’t say in person. Check it out on this website - http://radar.oreilly.com/archives/2007/03/call_for_a_blog_1.html
Well, that might eliminate a few…but some mighty rude comments are made everyday to our faces, as well as on blogs, in chat rooms, or on the air by people who have too much ego and not enough basic social graces. Not everyone makes it into the headlines like Don Imus.
Give people their free speech; however, wouldn’t it be nice if we chose to say things which made the world a better place?
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
On the Winning Side - or Not
No, I’m not focusing on the recent Mendocino County's District Attorney election, in case my headline reflects ballot blues (well, maybe a little). As Albert Einstein said, “Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted.” Don’t know if that makes Keith Faulder feel any better, but he related to me some positive words a couple of days following the election - when he could’ve been “down” for the count.
Though his unsuccessful campaign was brief (compared to his main opponent), Assistant District Attorney Faulder paid the people of Mendocino County huge compliments. Since his career puts him more often in the path of those detained or accused of alleged crimes, he rarely spends much time in the company of such large groups of dedicated, upstanding citizens who respect his position. He enjoyed that immensely.
Faulder ran the race, he said, to “have the opportunity to pay back the people of this county for all the years of training and confidence” they’ve invested in him. Maybe next round, Keith.
“It’s not whether you win or lose, but how you play the game.” We say that about politics, yes, but for many across the globe, this famous sport philosophy is played out – or not – on fields and courts where physical prowess reigns. Could you or your parent be called a “good sport” or does ump-blasting and tongue-lashing brand you as a “bad sport?”
Only the tragic or shocking news stories ever make the big headlines, but there are a lot of “bad sports” who are reported to the National Association of Sporting Officials. You can check out some of the sordid details on this webpage: http://www.naso.org/sportsmanship/badsports.html.
In our local news, a positive headline on a recent sports page was balm to the injured eyes…Our local South Valley Falcons won the City of Ukiah High School Division basketball championship, thanks to a motivated group of young men.
In only their second season, this team has no gym or covered practice area – and with new coach Chris Miller coming onboard just three days before the first game, they were able to beat the odds. Theirs was a perfect season with 11-0. Kudos, guys! The rest of us should be inspired.
For students in need of good role models, healthy exercise or fair competition, being on a team like this is priceless. Too much negative rumblin’ has been souring the pool of young people in our area. Wearing red or blue on some of our streets can produce anything but a patriotic response. Unfortunately, several of my high school English students are riding the thin line that keeps them out of the jailhouse or the coffin. It’s sad.
A local home where friends were mourning the death of a recently shot twenty-year-old (whose “blues” have been rumored) was allegedly pelted with beer bottles hurled by young men “seeing red,” you might say. A concerned mother witnessed this and confided to me. Not even a hint of respect.
What makes it worse is the young man’s death involved local law enforcement rather than street enemies. How can this loss of young life not sadden the hearts of other young lives, no matter what color they wear?
Maybe we need to put every teen on a team of some game, proud of their “color” and play against each other with onlookers, coaches and umpires. It’s been said that as a species we still need to satisfy that hunter/gatherer role…win the prize to take home. But, there’s not a safe, legitimate way for all of us to do that now.
Some have parlayed the “good sport” philosophy into a more universal application, like Australia’s Social Justice Commissioner Dr. Bill Jonas did in his 1999 speech at a Sport and Human Rights Conference down under.
“We need to ask ourselves, first, what exactly is it about sport that we would wish to transfer to social and civil life? I want briefly to suggest two reasons…Firstly, sport is an arena where competition is governed by the rule of law. The laws are in general respected and…enforceable.”
Jonas’ second reason resonated with me as I read the papers and scoured online while monitoring the Masters Golf Tournament (had to watch Tiger – a good role model). We can take this lesson from Dr. Jonas and put it to good use in our justice halls, on our basketball courts and in our neighborhoods:
“Secondly, let me draw attention to the geometrical configuration of the Olympic symbol. Five circles of equal size yet of different colour; circles that overlap yet remain distinct. A fitting symbol of equality and difference. In sport, competitors start out at the same point - they are given equal opportunity.”
That should be our goal. We need to do more to move everyone up to the same starting point and give everyone a chance to win. Otherwise, we all lose.
Though his unsuccessful campaign was brief (compared to his main opponent), Assistant District Attorney Faulder paid the people of Mendocino County huge compliments. Since his career puts him more often in the path of those detained or accused of alleged crimes, he rarely spends much time in the company of such large groups of dedicated, upstanding citizens who respect his position. He enjoyed that immensely.
Faulder ran the race, he said, to “have the opportunity to pay back the people of this county for all the years of training and confidence” they’ve invested in him. Maybe next round, Keith.
“It’s not whether you win or lose, but how you play the game.” We say that about politics, yes, but for many across the globe, this famous sport philosophy is played out – or not – on fields and courts where physical prowess reigns. Could you or your parent be called a “good sport” or does ump-blasting and tongue-lashing brand you as a “bad sport?”
Only the tragic or shocking news stories ever make the big headlines, but there are a lot of “bad sports” who are reported to the National Association of Sporting Officials. You can check out some of the sordid details on this webpage: http://www.naso.org/sportsmanship/badsports.html.
In our local news, a positive headline on a recent sports page was balm to the injured eyes…Our local South Valley Falcons won the City of Ukiah High School Division basketball championship, thanks to a motivated group of young men.
In only their second season, this team has no gym or covered practice area – and with new coach Chris Miller coming onboard just three days before the first game, they were able to beat the odds. Theirs was a perfect season with 11-0. Kudos, guys! The rest of us should be inspired.
For students in need of good role models, healthy exercise or fair competition, being on a team like this is priceless. Too much negative rumblin’ has been souring the pool of young people in our area. Wearing red or blue on some of our streets can produce anything but a patriotic response. Unfortunately, several of my high school English students are riding the thin line that keeps them out of the jailhouse or the coffin. It’s sad.
A local home where friends were mourning the death of a recently shot twenty-year-old (whose “blues” have been rumored) was allegedly pelted with beer bottles hurled by young men “seeing red,” you might say. A concerned mother witnessed this and confided to me. Not even a hint of respect.
What makes it worse is the young man’s death involved local law enforcement rather than street enemies. How can this loss of young life not sadden the hearts of other young lives, no matter what color they wear?
Maybe we need to put every teen on a team of some game, proud of their “color” and play against each other with onlookers, coaches and umpires. It’s been said that as a species we still need to satisfy that hunter/gatherer role…win the prize to take home. But, there’s not a safe, legitimate way for all of us to do that now.
Some have parlayed the “good sport” philosophy into a more universal application, like Australia’s Social Justice Commissioner Dr. Bill Jonas did in his 1999 speech at a Sport and Human Rights Conference down under.
“We need to ask ourselves, first, what exactly is it about sport that we would wish to transfer to social and civil life? I want briefly to suggest two reasons…Firstly, sport is an arena where competition is governed by the rule of law. The laws are in general respected and…enforceable.”
Jonas’ second reason resonated with me as I read the papers and scoured online while monitoring the Masters Golf Tournament (had to watch Tiger – a good role model). We can take this lesson from Dr. Jonas and put it to good use in our justice halls, on our basketball courts and in our neighborhoods:
“Secondly, let me draw attention to the geometrical configuration of the Olympic symbol. Five circles of equal size yet of different colour; circles that overlap yet remain distinct. A fitting symbol of equality and difference. In sport, competitors start out at the same point - they are given equal opportunity.”
That should be our goal. We need to do more to move everyone up to the same starting point and give everyone a chance to win. Otherwise, we all lose.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Nature and Hospitality Merge in Beauty
Homer Barton would be pleased. If he could come back to see his farm on the Mendocino Coast 150 years later, he might be surprised to see the original beauty still at its peak.
Once a working farm and brewery just south of Mendocino village, the Brewery Gulch Inn has managed to sustain and cultivate this beauty in its perfect mini-climate. Dr. Arthur Ciancutti, the land’s owner since 1977, has used the natural protection from coastal winds and blessings of fresh water and fertile soil to a wonderful advantage.
Ciancutti lives in the refurbished original farmhouse and has in recent years created a glorious inn where travelers or locals can relax and enjoy the coastal scenery. In addition, the new inn which opened in 2000 boasts of a unique and once-in-a-lifetime story – told by its solid and ancient structural material.
About twelve years ago, Dr. Ciancutti – or Arky, as friends call him, happened on the find of the century through casual conversation in a local Mendocino bar, Dick’s. Big River bridge retrofitters talked of virgin 150-year-old redwoods that had been found buried in the Big, which was heavily used in early logging efforts.
A lover of natural wood – in addition to being a retired doctor and high-performance team builder and founder of The Learning Center (learningcenter.net/), Arky managed to get in while the gettin’ was good and, with a little help, was able to salvage, trade or buy over 100,000 board feet of the “guiltless” virgin redwood.
Milled right there on the farm, the beautiful timbers highlighted by tones of red and purple caused by mineralization are now crafted into the building and trim of the Brewery Gulch Inn. With its idyllic setting and lovely interior, no wonder the Inn has been listed as a Top Ten Romantic Inn in the USA, California’s Inn of the Year, and many other well-earned accolades.
Not recalling any local coverage of this nearby jewel, I happened to read about it while browsing through an outdated national magazine in a doctor’s office. I was interested in this distinctive endeavor just across the coastal hills and contacted Dr. Ciancutti for an interview. Arky, his fiancé Francesca and the inn staff cordially treated me to a guided tour and answered my questions.
What impressed me, beside the phenomenal physical beauty of the inn and its setting, was the authentic loving care of its proprietors – from the groundskeeper to the owner himself. Of course, departing guests gushed gladly to Arky while I was in hearing as well. There was more to this story than just an inn, I discovered.
Dr. Ciancutti and his fiancé Francesca Campbell took me past the building’s beauty and shared their love and plans for the ten acres of land on which it sits. The years of replacing and propagating of native trees, flowers (including hundreds of rugosa roses) and other plants showed as we walked through the meadows and rolling hills. Plus, a lush wetland area has been nearly fully restored using natural rock filters, with carved benches dotting its viewing areas, a favorite of bird-watchers.
Using only organic methods, the farming efforts are paying off, too. The Inn’s kitchen provides a gourmet menu laden with items using the farm’s own organic eggs, heritage apples, and various herbs. Future plans include growing their own potatoes and many other vegetables as they prepare to become a self-sustaining entity. In 2002, the homestead and inn were both designated as California Certified Organic Farmers – one of only two in the state, Arky related.
He also proceeded to impress me with a somewhat unknown fact that 20% of all fuel burned is a result of “moving food.” Intending to provide more of their own food and resource needs is not just a trend or whim. Growing numbers of storekeepers and businesses are merging their efforts to develop self-sustainable regions.
Dr. Ciancutti’s farm is working with the Coastal Economic Localized Link (CELL); other groups in our county focus on this practical goal of localizing: WELL (Willits), GULP (Greater Ukiah), Anderson Valley and Laytonville, among others. This topic warrants another article in the future, I’m sure.
The Brewery Gulch Inn folks are also involved in Nature Tourism Partnerships on the Coast. The idea of Eco-Tourism resonates with today’s environmentally-conscious travelers, and regional resorts are planning how to build on this concept. How can we draw tourists to enjoy this area’s gorgeous natural beauty without jeopardizing its viability or longevity?
Their next interactive forum invites regional community leaders, tourism professionals, business and land owners, in addition to public lands managers. Presented by the Mendocino Land Trust, the event will be held on March 29 & 30 at the Hill House Inn in Mendocino. Email naturetourism@mcn.org or call 707 397-1092 for more information. Back to the Gulch...
The rustic, solid copper beer “still” sits useless on the hill, the last fragment of Barton’s old brewery; however, Brewery Gulch Inn does provide an unparalleled hospitality bed and breakfast – Homer would be proud, and we should be, too!
Once a working farm and brewery just south of Mendocino village, the Brewery Gulch Inn has managed to sustain and cultivate this beauty in its perfect mini-climate. Dr. Arthur Ciancutti, the land’s owner since 1977, has used the natural protection from coastal winds and blessings of fresh water and fertile soil to a wonderful advantage.
Ciancutti lives in the refurbished original farmhouse and has in recent years created a glorious inn where travelers or locals can relax and enjoy the coastal scenery. In addition, the new inn which opened in 2000 boasts of a unique and once-in-a-lifetime story – told by its solid and ancient structural material.
About twelve years ago, Dr. Ciancutti – or Arky, as friends call him, happened on the find of the century through casual conversation in a local Mendocino bar, Dick’s. Big River bridge retrofitters talked of virgin 150-year-old redwoods that had been found buried in the Big, which was heavily used in early logging efforts.
A lover of natural wood – in addition to being a retired doctor and high-performance team builder and founder of The Learning Center (learningcenter.net/), Arky managed to get in while the gettin’ was good and, with a little help, was able to salvage, trade or buy over 100,000 board feet of the “guiltless” virgin redwood.
Milled right there on the farm, the beautiful timbers highlighted by tones of red and purple caused by mineralization are now crafted into the building and trim of the Brewery Gulch Inn. With its idyllic setting and lovely interior, no wonder the Inn has been listed as a Top Ten Romantic Inn in the USA, California’s Inn of the Year, and many other well-earned accolades.
Not recalling any local coverage of this nearby jewel, I happened to read about it while browsing through an outdated national magazine in a doctor’s office. I was interested in this distinctive endeavor just across the coastal hills and contacted Dr. Ciancutti for an interview. Arky, his fiancé Francesca and the inn staff cordially treated me to a guided tour and answered my questions.
What impressed me, beside the phenomenal physical beauty of the inn and its setting, was the authentic loving care of its proprietors – from the groundskeeper to the owner himself. Of course, departing guests gushed gladly to Arky while I was in hearing as well. There was more to this story than just an inn, I discovered.
Dr. Ciancutti and his fiancé Francesca Campbell took me past the building’s beauty and shared their love and plans for the ten acres of land on which it sits. The years of replacing and propagating of native trees, flowers (including hundreds of rugosa roses) and other plants showed as we walked through the meadows and rolling hills. Plus, a lush wetland area has been nearly fully restored using natural rock filters, with carved benches dotting its viewing areas, a favorite of bird-watchers.
Using only organic methods, the farming efforts are paying off, too. The Inn’s kitchen provides a gourmet menu laden with items using the farm’s own organic eggs, heritage apples, and various herbs. Future plans include growing their own potatoes and many other vegetables as they prepare to become a self-sustaining entity. In 2002, the homestead and inn were both designated as California Certified Organic Farmers – one of only two in the state, Arky related.
He also proceeded to impress me with a somewhat unknown fact that 20% of all fuel burned is a result of “moving food.” Intending to provide more of their own food and resource needs is not just a trend or whim. Growing numbers of storekeepers and businesses are merging their efforts to develop self-sustainable regions.
Dr. Ciancutti’s farm is working with the Coastal Economic Localized Link (CELL); other groups in our county focus on this practical goal of localizing: WELL (Willits), GULP (Greater Ukiah), Anderson Valley and Laytonville, among others. This topic warrants another article in the future, I’m sure.
The Brewery Gulch Inn folks are also involved in Nature Tourism Partnerships on the Coast. The idea of Eco-Tourism resonates with today’s environmentally-conscious travelers, and regional resorts are planning how to build on this concept. How can we draw tourists to enjoy this area’s gorgeous natural beauty without jeopardizing its viability or longevity?
Their next interactive forum invites regional community leaders, tourism professionals, business and land owners, in addition to public lands managers. Presented by the Mendocino Land Trust, the event will be held on March 29 & 30 at the Hill House Inn in Mendocino. Email naturetourism@mcn.org or call 707 397-1092 for more information. Back to the Gulch...
The rustic, solid copper beer “still” sits useless on the hill, the last fragment of Barton’s old brewery; however, Brewery Gulch Inn does provide an unparalleled hospitality bed and breakfast – Homer would be proud, and we should be, too!
Sunday, March 4, 2007
Fat and Fin – a Spring Revival
It’s that time of year. You blow back and forth with the extremes: now the warm, sunny days teasing of spring, and then you get whipped back into the dark, blustery cold and wet of winter once again. Daffodils in full bloom while fresh snow sits beneath the hilltop firs. The battle of the seasons, if you will. New life pushing through the decay.
I tried to use this positive outlook as I viewed the putrid, rotting carcass of the beached fin whale on the Mendocino Coast near Westport – or what’s left of its carcass. To be honest, it didn’t really stink unless you stood downwind. But, thank goodness for a strong stomach.
My focus was not how ghoulish the scene was, but to capture the finality and reality of the huge mammal’s end. Of course, the cameras have been clicking for weeks – with a few making it to various online pages. One writer/traveler from Texas happened by early and has some good pictures of the whale shortly after landing onshore posted at henrymelton.blogspot.com/2007/02. My own shots are on this blog site.
When local photographer Suzette Cook-Mankins and I arrived, the decaying fin whale had obviously made a few tosses back out to sea on high tide, washing up more stripped and pitiful each time. With sodden loosely-woven strips of muscle and sagging torso, the graying mass was difficult for our cameras to distinguish from the curves of sand and foam at water’s edge.
There was some initial controversy reported in area news accounts of whether the whale’s body should be left to rot – or not. I had fancied some alternate resolutions, like using its blubber as an oil resource via early Native American tradition. One could design whale-skin slickers for spring or bring back the whale-bone corsets to pinch in our winter fat. Or maybe not.
It does seem right to allow its natural breakdown giving local birds and small animal life a feast of sorts. The trouble is with us, the other large mammals in the area; whatever happened to live and let live – or better, die and let die? Though it is technically an endangered species, we had no control of its passing and could have done nothing to revive it.
Apparently, the poor beast’s breakdown was aided by some roughing up courtesy of the human element. It must be some type of primitive – or just backwoods mindset to wreak havoc upon the felled giant. Man conquers the beast – not its actual destroyer; he just wants to pound his chest and stamp his boots as victor. Neanderthals.
Pickups have zoomed over the sand, with one reported stuck up on its fin until a second truck finally pulled it off as high tide threatened to submerge them all. Would’ve served them right.
Many of us have chosen to be onlookers. We ogle and gawk at such a chunk of Mother Nature. Normally relegated to a glimpse through binoculars or from a ship’s stern, we rarely can come this close. Moby Dick it was not, but this is as good as it gets. Even if it’s not a sperm, blue or humpbacked version – we’ll take it.
When we stopped to ask directions at the local store, the clerk looked bored and pointed to hand-printed travel directions pasted to the sales counter. Sensing her reluctance to chat it up, I read and exited with a shallow thank you. We were only another car of whale-viewers now become tiresome, I’m sure.
The crowds had thinned to only half a dozen as we hiked a fair distance to arrive whale-side. We climbed over and onto big jagged rocks for a better shot, a different angle. Cursing as the tide came in, our opportunity fading with the afternoon, we watched as the huge threads of gristle and skin puffed up with the flow of salt water. Hard to find its fin – this fin whale had already lost its namesake…we could barely make out the long toothless upper jaw hovering over the brown sand.
By next week or next month, it will have become a part of the tight, crawling crabs; gulls will have grown fat feeding on it. Plant life will have been given a big boost of nutrients and fertilizers. Spring will be that much more lively and fruitful because of this rare wash-up.
Our human stories, as well as nature tales, often contain the sad demise of one entity that, in turn, gives life and vibrancy to those who survive. This is just one example of nature’s accidental bounty.
I tried to use this positive outlook as I viewed the putrid, rotting carcass of the beached fin whale on the Mendocino Coast near Westport – or what’s left of its carcass. To be honest, it didn’t really stink unless you stood downwind. But, thank goodness for a strong stomach.
My focus was not how ghoulish the scene was, but to capture the finality and reality of the huge mammal’s end. Of course, the cameras have been clicking for weeks – with a few making it to various online pages. One writer/traveler from Texas happened by early and has some good pictures of the whale shortly after landing onshore posted at henrymelton.blogspot.com/2007/02. My own shots are on this blog site.
When local photographer Suzette Cook-Mankins and I arrived, the decaying fin whale had obviously made a few tosses back out to sea on high tide, washing up more stripped and pitiful each time. With sodden loosely-woven strips of muscle and sagging torso, the graying mass was difficult for our cameras to distinguish from the curves of sand and foam at water’s edge.
There was some initial controversy reported in area news accounts of whether the whale’s body should be left to rot – or not. I had fancied some alternate resolutions, like using its blubber as an oil resource via early Native American tradition. One could design whale-skin slickers for spring or bring back the whale-bone corsets to pinch in our winter fat. Or maybe not.
It does seem right to allow its natural breakdown giving local birds and small animal life a feast of sorts. The trouble is with us, the other large mammals in the area; whatever happened to live and let live – or better, die and let die? Though it is technically an endangered species, we had no control of its passing and could have done nothing to revive it.
Apparently, the poor beast’s breakdown was aided by some roughing up courtesy of the human element. It must be some type of primitive – or just backwoods mindset to wreak havoc upon the felled giant. Man conquers the beast – not its actual destroyer; he just wants to pound his chest and stamp his boots as victor. Neanderthals.
Pickups have zoomed over the sand, with one reported stuck up on its fin until a second truck finally pulled it off as high tide threatened to submerge them all. Would’ve served them right.
Many of us have chosen to be onlookers. We ogle and gawk at such a chunk of Mother Nature. Normally relegated to a glimpse through binoculars or from a ship’s stern, we rarely can come this close. Moby Dick it was not, but this is as good as it gets. Even if it’s not a sperm, blue or humpbacked version – we’ll take it.
When we stopped to ask directions at the local store, the clerk looked bored and pointed to hand-printed travel directions pasted to the sales counter. Sensing her reluctance to chat it up, I read and exited with a shallow thank you. We were only another car of whale-viewers now become tiresome, I’m sure.
The crowds had thinned to only half a dozen as we hiked a fair distance to arrive whale-side. We climbed over and onto big jagged rocks for a better shot, a different angle. Cursing as the tide came in, our opportunity fading with the afternoon, we watched as the huge threads of gristle and skin puffed up with the flow of salt water. Hard to find its fin – this fin whale had already lost its namesake…we could barely make out the long toothless upper jaw hovering over the brown sand.
By next week or next month, it will have become a part of the tight, crawling crabs; gulls will have grown fat feeding on it. Plant life will have been given a big boost of nutrients and fertilizers. Spring will be that much more lively and fruitful because of this rare wash-up.
Our human stories, as well as nature tales, often contain the sad demise of one entity that, in turn, gives life and vibrancy to those who survive. This is just one example of nature’s accidental bounty.
Saturday, February 24, 2007
From Both Sides Now
February 11, 2007
Another year, another Academy Award. I hope that’s the case for Clint. I can call him Clint, you know. I’ve admired over four decades of Clint Eastwood’s work onscreen. We go all the way back to Rowdy Yates. Rawhide. Sun and sweat glinting off his tanned chest and shoulders. We have a history. Yeah, me and a few million others.
We’ve watched him grow from a young, B film, contract actor into a highly revered Hollywood director. At 76, he is still successful on both sides of the movie camera. In 2005, he swept away several major film awards for Million Dollar Baby. Now, he’s looking good for major kudos for his two releases about the World War II battle at Iwo Jima.
Eastwood’s two new films, Flags of Our Fathers and Letters from Iwo Jima, reflect the American and Japanese perspectives, respectively, of this battle; extraordinarily, both are nominated for major and minor Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
After recently seeing Letters, a viewer seated in front of me commented to her neighbor that there was “no central character to hang onto.” I thought to myself, “That’s right, this is not John Wayne’s Iwo Jima.” Then I actually rented Sands of Iwo Jima to recall how different the two versions were.
Other than the annoying multiple calls for his Marines to “Saddle up!” Wayne’s film was well done for the time – cinematically. Conceptually, it’s a different story. Appealing to its post-WWII audience, the film permeated strong anti-Japanese sentiment while arousing American patriotism.
One line from Sands stands out to me, especially in relation to Eastwood’s Japanese viewpoint of the battle in Letters. A Marine advises a young recruit to “Let the other guy die for his country – you live for yours.” Notably, Eastwood’s Japanese general countermanded other Japanese commanders’ sentences of honorable suicide to the troops as their hopes slimmed. Of course, this general had spent time in and was perhaps influenced by pre-war America. Letters from Iwo Jima is based on this real character’s letters found in the island’s caverns and told in Japanese as a foreign film.
The Americans greatly outnumbered and outgunned their enemy. Even the Japanese brass did not expect success; their soldiers were sent to die for the Emperor – perhaps to buy time. Clint Eastwood has explained in various articles that as he got into the two movies - Flags of Our Fathers and Letters from Iwo Jima, he realized that the 19-year-olds from both sides had the same fears. “They all wrote poignant letters home saying: ‘I don't want to die.’ They were all going through the same thing, despite the cultural differences.”
That’s what I appreciate about Clint. He’s willing to do what others have not or would not do. Showing our enemies as human and recognizing our similarities is not always a popular idea, especially now while our country is again at war.
Eastwood, a lifelong Republican, has admitted that both his Iwo Jima films could be viewed together “as an antiwar film. Whether it's about territory or religion, war is horrifyingly and depressingly archaic. But I didn't set out to make a war movie,” he insists.
His efforts highlight several individuals in each story. In Flags, his focus is on the three soldiers who felt awkward and unworthy of such staggering celebrity just for being in a particular war photo. Heroes? They believed the real heroes had died on the island.
"I feel terrible,” Eastwood said in a biographical piece on imdb.com, “for both sides in that war and in all wars. A lot of innocent people get sacrificed. It's not about winning or losing, but mostly about the interrupted lives of young people."
He effectively depicts the young soldiers from both sides, their comrades and families, and how life-changing such a war can be. Then, there are always those (also included in each film) who are caught up in the power trip and survival grip; they have become so desensitized, blinded to reason and stoked with nationalism that they lose their humanity.
Eastwood’s realism and desire for the genuine comes through. His stories are not romanticized, homogenized or sterilized; his characters are real people at all levels who share the glory – and the shame - of these situations.
In fact, the Motion Picture Association of America has announced its inaugural recipient of the Jack Valenti Humanitarian Award will be none other than Clint Eastwood. Referring to Clint’s 2006 films, the association said, “These films exemplify the true power of movies to tell human stories and inspire national conversation.”
Keep it up, Clint!
Another year, another Academy Award. I hope that’s the case for Clint. I can call him Clint, you know. I’ve admired over four decades of Clint Eastwood’s work onscreen. We go all the way back to Rowdy Yates. Rawhide. Sun and sweat glinting off his tanned chest and shoulders. We have a history. Yeah, me and a few million others.
We’ve watched him grow from a young, B film, contract actor into a highly revered Hollywood director. At 76, he is still successful on both sides of the movie camera. In 2005, he swept away several major film awards for Million Dollar Baby. Now, he’s looking good for major kudos for his two releases about the World War II battle at Iwo Jima.
Eastwood’s two new films, Flags of Our Fathers and Letters from Iwo Jima, reflect the American and Japanese perspectives, respectively, of this battle; extraordinarily, both are nominated for major and minor Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
After recently seeing Letters, a viewer seated in front of me commented to her neighbor that there was “no central character to hang onto.” I thought to myself, “That’s right, this is not John Wayne’s Iwo Jima.” Then I actually rented Sands of Iwo Jima to recall how different the two versions were.
Other than the annoying multiple calls for his Marines to “Saddle up!” Wayne’s film was well done for the time – cinematically. Conceptually, it’s a different story. Appealing to its post-WWII audience, the film permeated strong anti-Japanese sentiment while arousing American patriotism.
One line from Sands stands out to me, especially in relation to Eastwood’s Japanese viewpoint of the battle in Letters. A Marine advises a young recruit to “Let the other guy die for his country – you live for yours.” Notably, Eastwood’s Japanese general countermanded other Japanese commanders’ sentences of honorable suicide to the troops as their hopes slimmed. Of course, this general had spent time in and was perhaps influenced by pre-war America. Letters from Iwo Jima is based on this real character’s letters found in the island’s caverns and told in Japanese as a foreign film.
The Americans greatly outnumbered and outgunned their enemy. Even the Japanese brass did not expect success; their soldiers were sent to die for the Emperor – perhaps to buy time. Clint Eastwood has explained in various articles that as he got into the two movies - Flags of Our Fathers and Letters from Iwo Jima, he realized that the 19-year-olds from both sides had the same fears. “They all wrote poignant letters home saying: ‘I don't want to die.’ They were all going through the same thing, despite the cultural differences.”
That’s what I appreciate about Clint. He’s willing to do what others have not or would not do. Showing our enemies as human and recognizing our similarities is not always a popular idea, especially now while our country is again at war.
Eastwood, a lifelong Republican, has admitted that both his Iwo Jima films could be viewed together “as an antiwar film. Whether it's about territory or religion, war is horrifyingly and depressingly archaic. But I didn't set out to make a war movie,” he insists.
His efforts highlight several individuals in each story. In Flags, his focus is on the three soldiers who felt awkward and unworthy of such staggering celebrity just for being in a particular war photo. Heroes? They believed the real heroes had died on the island.
"I feel terrible,” Eastwood said in a biographical piece on imdb.com, “for both sides in that war and in all wars. A lot of innocent people get sacrificed. It's not about winning or losing, but mostly about the interrupted lives of young people."
He effectively depicts the young soldiers from both sides, their comrades and families, and how life-changing such a war can be. Then, there are always those (also included in each film) who are caught up in the power trip and survival grip; they have become so desensitized, blinded to reason and stoked with nationalism that they lose their humanity.
Eastwood’s realism and desire for the genuine comes through. His stories are not romanticized, homogenized or sterilized; his characters are real people at all levels who share the glory – and the shame - of these situations.
In fact, the Motion Picture Association of America has announced its inaugural recipient of the Jack Valenti Humanitarian Award will be none other than Clint Eastwood. Referring to Clint’s 2006 films, the association said, “These films exemplify the true power of movies to tell human stories and inspire national conversation.”
Keep it up, Clint!
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