NEIGHBORS by Pat Scholl

Jan 19, 2005 

Well here we are it’s bath time and here we go again. Yes, folks, it’s bath time here at the Scholl household. It’s a spectacle you don’t want to miss.

When my kids were little, bath time was a little bit scary for me. I would worry about them drowning, swallowing soap, or some other little object. I didn’t realize that there would always be something about bath time to fear.

The other night, when I proclaimed the fateful phrase “Time to take a bath!”  I got the usual response.  My 14 year old said, “ Yeah right, it’s too early for me to take a SHOWER!”  How could I forget he is too old for a bath? Baths are not cool. He usually polices his hygiene exceptionally well without any reminders from me.

The other two kids were not so easy. They usually react to bath/shower time as if they are not waterproof. I never heard of any BIG kid getting hurt in the bathtub/shower!

Marie is also too old to take a bath. She will take a shower and usually spend much longer in there than she needs to. She is sometimes singing, sometimes playing some sort of game, and she very rarely just gets down to it ands gets clean. She usually has to be reminded to get out, and most often has to be queried as to whether she washed her hair or not.  Nine times out of ten she hasn’t “had enough time” to wash her hair, no matter if she’s been in the shower for 15 minutes or an hour.  This night was no exception. I was finished making dinner and she was still not finished!                   

Patrick was forced to wait, because the hot water was all gone, of course. He doesn’t usually spend a lot of time in the shower; he is very practical. With him, I sometimes wonder if he gets enough time to really do a good job!                                    

I was thinking that night that I miss the days when I could kneel on the floor by the tub and shampoo their heads, tickle them, wrap them in a fluffy towel and carry them to the bedroom to put on their pajamas.

After dinner, I decided that Patrick could take a shower the next morning, and I sent them to finish homework.                          

Without anything much to do, I snuck off to my bathroom and suddenly found my self in a luxurious bubble bath, with my latest novel. 

Say, this growing up thing isn’t so bad after all!  I guess life is full of tradeoffs….some of them in my favor!! 

July 5, 2000

The Defender of the Universe (Age 3)

My kids are growing up. They get bigger right before my eyes.

Just yesterday it seems, Patrick learned how to walk, and today he's going out the door to do battle with his brother. The battle I refer to is the neighborhood squirt gun game. The summer Olympics has nothing on these games; there's the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat.

Today my little three year old joined the ranks of the gladiators. Armed with his mini-size version of a squirt gun, (compared to the monsters I see the big kids have!) he leaves the front door. His chest is held out and his little face is set with determination. He is fully garbed for battle. He has on his Power Ranger shirt, his Batman shorts and his NASCAR sandals. His tank is full. I follow him out the door and give the big kids an unmistakable look. They're used to it; the look of Momma. It says, 'this kid is untouchable, and if you make him cry, you have to answer to me.....' Everyone in the neighborhood understands. His big brother is out there, too. They give me enough time to get out of the way, barely. The water flies, and the shrieking begins. It's actually fascinating to watch; the killer instinct rears it's ugly head. Each kid gets drenched in turn and then the action stops while everyone reloads. That's the funny part. As each gun gets filled, the poor kid who gets to the hose last... well you get the drift.

Time goes on, and I don't hear anything.... usually a bad sign. I don't see any kids racing by the front window, I don't see any streams of water... better check this out. Before I reach the front door, I hear a familiar whimper.... yes, it's my baby. His chest is deflated, and the Power Rangers and Batman are soaked. He's walking slowly, dragging his little gun; his lip sticking out. He looks like he's ready to cry any minute, and suddenly he looks like a little kid again. I grab a towel and start to dry him off. "Poor Patrick," I say, "are you OK?" "Yeah, mom," he says, "I was just about to win when everybody all of a sudden had to go home!!" That's my boy!!

FOOTBALL AND CHEERLEADING SIGNUPS... CORRECTION!

The two final signups for Dixon Youth Football and Cheerleading will be held on July 8th, and July 15th from 10 am to 12 pm, at 450 Porter Road, Dixon. If you have questions, call 678-6632. JR. McBLACK SPORTS CAMP If your child is between the ages of 4-7, they will love the Junior McBlack Sports Camp. Participants will begin to learn the basics of basketball, baseball, soccer and golf through fun games and activities taught by quality coaches and collegiate athletes. This quality camp is being offered through the Dixon Rec and Parks Dept. by McBlack Sports Enterprises. The camp is Monday-Friday, July 17-21st, from 9 am to noon. Located at Northwest Park. Cost is $60. Please register your child by July 10th, at Dixon City Hall. For more information, call 678-7022.

SCHOLARSHIPS... A RECORD SETTING YEAR!!!

Woodland Healthcare Auxiliary, now in their 29th year of awarding scholarships to area high school students, proudly announced on June 27th, eleven $1,000 awards to the following students: Christi Camerena, Rosalinda Munoz, Natalie Nance, Kerri Sherard and Maria (Josi) Santana-Flores, all of Woodland; Michael Bhim of Williams; Ruben Valencia of Winters; Juliana Vasquez of West Sacramento; Emily Davis of Dixon; Jane Shapiro and Dahmi Lee of Davis. Congrats to all the recipients!

NEW DIXON SENIOR CLUB OFFICERS TAKE CHARGE

As of July 11th, the new Senior Club Officers will be: All Taggart - President, Larry Simmons-Vice President, Wade Strong - Treasurer, Zanette Seifert - Secretary and Virginia Szilagyi- Membership Chairman. The Board of Trustees are Harvey Fruchtman, Herb Miller and Harold Axelson. Kudos to y'all.

SUPPER CRUISE ON LAKE BERRYESSA

Friday, July 14th, 5-10 pm. This will be a relaxing evening boat trip on Lake Berryessa hosted by Quail Ridge Wilderness Conservancy. The comfortable 24-foot watercruiser will leave Steele Park Resort on Lake Berryessa. As part of the trip, the Conservancy offers finger food, cheeses, wine and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy during the cruise. The boat will dock briefly at the foot of Quail Ridge Reserve, and those wishing to do so may take a short hike on the Reserve's northern tip. We will cruise above the exact location of the old town of Monticello( submerged by the building of the dam in the '50's). On this fun boat trip you will learn first-hand about the delicate balance of California's indigenous plants and animals, and about the human history of the area. Donations of $40 are requested per person to cover the cost of the boat and gas, with the remainder supporting Quail Ridge Conservancy's efforts to protect the nearly 2000 acre Quail Ridge Reserve with its superb stretches of native oak woodland/ savannah. Bring a sweater or wrap for the late evening hours. You may also want to bring a snack, as the buffet supper will not be served until 7:30pm. Participants are asked to assemble at Steele Park Resort at 4:30pm. For reservations, directions, or additional information, call 530-758-1387.

T-STREET THEATER CONSERVATORY SINGS THROUGH WONDERLAND

The White Rabbit, Cheshire Cat, and Caterpillar talk when Alice meets them in Wonderland, but this summer, they sing and dance as well! "Alice in Concert" opens Friday, July 14th, at 7:30 pm, at the Fairfield Center for Creative Arts, 1035 Texas St, in Fairfield. Following the opening night performance, audience members are invited to a Mad Tea Party Reception in the lobby. Performances are as follows: July 14th - 7:30pm, July 15th - 2 & 7:30pm, July 16th - 2 pm, July 19th - 10 am & 12 pm (all seats $4), July 21st - 7:30 pm, July 22nd - 2 pm. Tickets are $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and children 12& under, and can be purchased at Fairfield City Hall or 30 minutes prior to each performance. For more information, call the City Arts Education line at 707-428-7626.

SHASTA SUNSET DINNER TRAIN HOSTS RODNEY STRONG WINES

The Shasta Sunset Dinner Train will kick off its Summer Theme nights with a wine tasting event featuring the fine wines of Rodney Strong. Executive Chef Ed Hines has taken great pride in pairing the appropriate wines with the four course gourmet meal served on the train. Seating is limited, so make your reservations now. For more information, call 1-800-733-2141, or 964-2142.

May 24, 2000

The Komodo Dragon & The Parrot

I had a wonderful heart-to-heart talk with my almost ten-year old yesterday. His teacher sent home some material on the human body for he and me to discuss.

We finished the material and got to talking about growing up. We eventually worked around to puberty. My little boy is no little boy any more, I thought.

He had lots of questions, very good ones. We talked about what was going to happen to his body as he got older. A few times his eyebrows went up, but most of the things we had already talked about before.

This time, I focused on his feelings. I asked him what his favorite music was. NSync. I asked him the words to some of the songs. Now, I knew what they were, because I wouldn't have bought him the tape without knowing, but I wondered if he had them memorized the way I memorized my tapes when I was his age. He did.

My first reaction was nostalgic, because I could remember sitting on my bed in my room, playing albums (those are those funny black discs that we used to have for music, dear) and singing my heart out. It seemed impossible that he was that grown-up already!

I warned him, like my mom had warned me, not to listen too hard to the words. "The songs on your tape are only written to try to get a strong reaction from you. They want you to buy their tapes, honey. They don't understand you as well as I do, and they never will," I said. I don't know if he believed me, but at least on the outside he agreed with me.

We got into a meaty discussion on his feelings, then. I bit my lip and listened to him tell me how he feels about growing up, it was like a trip back to my own childhood.

Suddenly, I could feel the timer go off. Whenever we talk about stuff like this, I am so interested I could go on discussing forever. Not so with him. We get about ten minutes into things and he's ready to shift gears. I know this, but I'm always tempted to keep going.

"You know, your feelings change so fast as your age. One minute you're one thing and the next minute you're something else."

The look on his face was no longer serious but impish... I knew the time was expired. "You mean one minute I'm a komodo dragon and the next minute I'm a parrot?"

"Yes, dear, something like that."

DAVIS ARBORETUM'S HOME DEMONSTRATION GARDEN

Volunteers are needed to help plant 900 environmentally appropriate plants at the UC Davis Arboretum's Home Demonstration Garden. The garden is located next to Borders in Davis Commons, and is designed to help home gardeners put together a beautiful garden that reduces water use, chemical inputs and maintenance time by using plants, horticultural practices and design elements appropriate for the Central Valley. Volunteers are needed to help plant, mulch, stake and water. Training will be provided. We will plant Tuesday, May 23rd to Thursday, May 25th. Volunteers are asked to commit to a three-hour shift (9am-12pm) and/or 12pm to 4 pm). Food will be provided. Please call Martha at 530-754-5686, for more information, or to volunteer.

USDA ANNOUNCES ON-FARM STORAGE LOANS

The USDA will begin making seven-year, low cost loans to farmers to help build or upgrade commodity storage and handling facilities. "To get the best price for their crops, farmers need marketing flexibility," the USDA press release said. "On-farm storage gives farmers the control they need to segregate their crops and decide when to sell them." USDA's Farm Service Agency will implement the program to provide seven-year financing for on-farm storage of wheat, rice, soybeans, sunflower seeds, canola, grapeseed, safflower, flaxseed, mustard seed, crambe, other oilseeds to be announced, corn, grain sorghum, oats and barley. The interest rate charged will be the same as the rate charged on comparable Treasury securities in effect the month the loan is approved. Farmers may file applications starting May 30, 2000. Farmers who bought or built storage facilities between February 2, 2000 and May 30, 2000 may apply for a loan and may be approved if they meet eligibility and loan security requirements. USDA will be publishing draft regulations for this program this week. For more information, contact your Solano/Nape FSA at 707-678-1931.

WORLDWIDE CONFERENCE ON PREPARING YOUTH FOR FUTURE

The upcoming worldwide summit conference addresses crucial issues for youth to be successful in life. The conference will take place June 22-25, 2000 at the Sheraton Gateway Hotel in San Francisco. Topics will be: reducing teen violence, drug and alcohol abuse, teen pregnancy, and dropout rates. Keynote speakers include: Senator John Vasconcellos, Jack Canfield - CEO Chicken Soup for the Soul, Andy Mecca - Director of CA Mentoring Foundation, and James Koller - Director of CA Dept. of Drug & Alcohol Abuse Prevention. Twenty international authorities will be describing how they are preparing youth for the future. Endorsed by Wendall Kuykendall, Superintendent of Solano County Schools. Contact BTF Enterprises, 783 Rio Del Mar Blvd., Aptos, CA, 95003, or 831-662-0642 for more information.

ARMED FORCES GROUP NAMES OFFICERS

At its monthly Travis Air Force Base luncheon meeting, the Travis Regional Armed Forces Committee voted in new officers for the 2000-01 year, effective July 1st. Vacaville councilman Len Augustine was selected chairperson. Fred Harris, Mayor of Rio Vista, was named Vice Chair, and Steve Carbanaro of Fairfield, was named Treasurer. TRAF is composed mostly of business and civic leaders from throughout Solano County and is the regional support and advocacy group for Travis.

SOLANO COLLEGE HOLDS WOMEN'S BASKETBALL SUMMER CAMP

Fundamentals of shooting, defensive footwork, 1-on-1 moves, free-throws, ball-handling, 3-on-3 concepts rebounding, passing, offensive footwork, and post moves. Daily prizes and awards. Camp prizes. Each camper will receive a t-shirt and a ball. Held at Solano Community College Gym, June 23-25th, from 10 am to 3 pm, with 1/2 hour lunch break. Bring your own lunch; snacks and drinks available for purchase. Camp directors are Kevin Chaney, Assistant Coach ; Kim Mitchell Gervasoni, Head Coach & Shamone Warren, Assistant Coach. Cost is $75. Phone 707-864-7126 or 864-7000, FAX 707-864-7156. For more informaiton, call respective coaches, or leave a voice mail with your address, and applications can be mailed to you.

A Mom's Occupational Hazard

Well, this past week I had all the preparation I want for Mother's Day, thank you.

Mother's Day is where I reminisce on life as a mom, and thank God for my kids, and get breakfast in bed. I get various gifts of vast sentimental value, some beautiful cards, and then I get up and do laundry until it's time to make dinner. Oh well.

This past week, though, I had a chance to get a little extra appreciation for my lifework. It was a busy day. I ran up to Sacramento to pick up something at Macy's, and scooted back to Dixon for a baby shower at noon. All was well, and we were right on time, as I pulled into the parking lot of my store to get a card.

I still have this blasted cast on my arm so it's a fight to get out of my seatbelt. As I'm struggling, I hear Patrick yelling from the back seat, "I can't get it out, momma, I can't get it out!" He starts to seriously cry, and I see blood coming from his nose.

I wrench off the seatbelt and race to the other side of the van... the sight of blood always gets my adrenaline pumping. "What's wrong, Patrick !!" I said, too loudly. He just cries and looks scared... I'm scared.

I calm down. Patrick calms down and tells me hes got something up his nose. Lying next to him on the seat are a few Legos. "Patrick is this what you have up your nose?" I say, showing him a yellow one, as I silently pray it's not.

"No."

Whew. "Show me what it is." My heart sank as he picked out a tiny red Lego.

I drove him to the fire station, to see if I could grab a paramedic to help me. Sure enough, they were there, but they didn't have tweezers, and I don't think they're exactly geared for this type of work... We had to head for the doctor's office.

Patrick is completely calm; he has seemingly forgotten his unusual trouble as we get out of the car. His shirt is heavily blood-stained, face streamed with tears, but he's looking forward to watching the fishtank in the doctor's office!

In minutes, our problem is solved with a tweezers and three people to hold Patrick's head still.

Arriving at the shower, I relate our adventure to a room full of veteran moms and get the same reaction I'm sure a truck driver gets if he has a flat tire.... oh my, oh well, an occupational hazard...

Welcome Aimee Lynn Stevens

Aimee Lynn Stevens was born at 8:30 pm on April 27th, 2000 at Woodland Memorial Hospital. She is the first child of proud parents Jen and Alan Stevens of Dixon. Aimee wieghed 7 lbs., 8 oz. at was 20 1/2" long. Congratulations to the whole family!

C.A. JACOBS AND TREMONT WELCOME NEW ADMINISTRATORS

Last week, Dixon Unified School District Superintendent Bill Huyett announced the action of the governing board appointing Jeffery Nagel as Principal of C.A. Jacobs Intermediate School, and David Robertson as Assistant Vice-Principal of Tremont Elementary School. Jeffery Nagel is currently assistant principal at McKinleyville Middle School on California's northern coast. Prior to that appointment he had been a sixth and seventh grade teacher in Windsor, CA. Nagel earned his BA in English and History at UC Davis and his administrative credential through CSU, Humboldt. Following a visit to the McKinleyville School, the superintendent commented on Mr. Nagel's enthusiasm, problem solving ability, empathy with students and strong support from his staff. David Robertson is currently teaching at Cooper School in Vacaville. He will be the first ever elementary vice principal in Dixon. While in Vacaville, Robertson served three years as a mentor teacher. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he is Cooper School's Intervention Coordinator. He earned his BA in Elementary Education at the University of Northern Colorado and is finishing his maters and administrative credential through Chapman University. From 1966-69 he taught at the International School in Beijing, China. Tremont Principal, Dan Rott, praised Robertson's expertise in technology, his experience in year round education, and his familiarity with intervention/retention issues. Both candidates emerged as a result of a statewide search. Both went through two interviews and received site visits from a team of Dixon educators and parents. Both appointments are effective July 1, 2000, for the 2000-01 school year.

HELLO SUMMER, HELLO MOVIES IN THE PARK

The immensely popular "Movies in the Park", sponsored partly by the Dixon Downtown Business Association, is slated to begin Thursday evening, June 15th, with "The Tigger Movie". The movies are shown in the park next to the Public Library, on alternating Thursdays, at dark through August 24th. Any business or individual who would like to sponsor part or all of the total of 6 movies to be shown this summer, can contact Vicki Azevedo at 530-752-4117 (during the day) or 707-678-2247 (in the evenings). A list of outstanding movies will be available for sponsors to select , but they are on a first come, first choice basis. Sponsors may donate anything from $50 up to the cost of the whole movie. Most movies rent from $150 to $250 each. Last year, an estimated 2,000 people attended over the summer. It is a fun evening, where you can bring your family to watch a free movie, enjoy the great outdoors, and meet some other family-oriented people. All you need is something to sit on (blanket or low-back folding chair).Popcorn will be sold. Any group in the community is invited to put on a demonstration prior to any movie. Interested groups should contact Vicki Azevedo. In years past, we've had a petting zoo, karate demonstrations, dancing demonstrations, and classic cars--just to name a few. Your ideas and support will be greatly appreciated.

CITY ADVISORY BOARD VACANCY

The City of Dixon is currently looking for one vacancy on the Senior/Multi-Use Center Advisory Board. The Board is an advisory body to the City Council on matters pertaining to the Senior/Multi-Use Center. Board members serve two-year terms, and meet at 4 pm on the first Wednesday of every month.

DRESS, INTERVIEW, EMPLOYMENT!!

READY For Success Clothes Closet is opening the doors of its new home. Construction on the 1350 sq. ft. facility began the summer of 1999, and will boast a new name, READY For Success Interview Outlet. This program is a collaboration of local agencies that works with volunteers to promote image enhancement and career development by providing interview appropriate clothing to economically disadvantaged job seekers of Solano County. The open house is on Tuesday, May 16th, from 2-4 pm at Golden Hills Education Center, 2460 Clay Bank Road, Fairfield, Bldg. 7, in Fairfield. For additional information, call Stella Allen at 707-421-6569.

CONFERENCE FOCUSES ON HEALTH OF AGING LATINOS

UC Davis Center for Aging and Health, UC San Francisco Center for Aging in Diverse Communities, and Latino Coalition for a Healthy California, are sponsoring a conference on "Aging Latinos and the Health Care Paradox: Research and Clinical Care" on Tuesday, May 16th, from 8 am to 5 pm, at the Sierra Health Foundation, 1321 Garden Highway, Sacramento. "The conference will alert policymakers, health care providers, clinical researchers, community organizations and the general public to key health and related issues affecting the aging Latino population", says Mary Haan, associate professor and director of the UC Davis Center for Aging and Health. For a complete luist of topics and speakers, call 530-752-9463. The $30 conference fee includes syllabus, breakfast, break snacks, lunch, and a networking reception. Registration deadline is May 12th.

YOLO HOSPICE HOLDS ANNUAL "JAZZ IN THE PARK" FUNDRAISER

Yolo Hospice's biggest annual fundraiser will feature the Sacramento Jazz Festival's perennial favorite, Wooden Nickel Jazz Band. The event will take place on Saturday, May 20th, in a specially created New Orleans park setting at the Veterans Memorial Building in Davis. "The Wooden Nickel Band has been wowin' them at the Sacramento Jazz festival since 1993", says JIP chair Patty Merwin, "but we will also have The Davis Junction Barbershop Quartet, The Bicycle Belles, and the Davis High School Jazz Choir. I'm particularly proud of our menu, featuring Buckhorn Restaurant's tri-tips, Clarksburg fruit-kabobs, and Marriott pie." Tickets are only $25 per person and go fast!! To buy tickets, call the Yolo Hospice at 530-758-5566, or 800-491-7711.

JOHANNESSEN APPOINTED ASSISTANT LEADER IN REPUBLICAN CAUCUS

Newly elected Rep. leader, Jim Brulte, today named Dixon's State Senator Maurice Johannessen as Assistant Leader of the 15-member Senate Republican Caucus. Senator Johannessen will continue to chair the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, as well as the Select Oversight Committee on CALFED, as well as his new responsibility.

CROHNS & COLITIS GROUP TEMPORARILY SHUTS DOWN

The Davis Chapter of the Crohns & Colitis Support Group will be temporarily shut down due to severe family illness, however if you need a support group, the Sacramento Chapter meets the last Sunday of the month. Contact Cathy Weiss at 678-6188, or Kathy Flowers at 530- 756-9386 with any questions.

Skating Cracks Me Up!

April 5, 2000

It started out like any other Wednesday. A wild rush in the morning, feed the kids, dress the kids, blah, blah, blah.... same ol', same ol'. This Wednesday held a special ending, though. My oldest son and I were off to the roller skating rink that night.. for some "quality" time. Besides, I LOVE to skate.

We get to the rink, and put on our skates. It's "Family Night" at the rink for my son's school, so there is a familiar crowd. He skates off, to be with his friends, and I'm wondering why I thought this would be good time to bond. Oh well, I get out on that floor and the old thrill comes back. I remember skating as a girl to my favorite rock music and strobe lights. I was young enough to be totally convinced everyone was looking at me, especially the boys from my school. OK, it wasn't quite the same; they still had the strobes, but I never heard of most of the songs they played. Better yet, I'm positive no one saw me -- I was just someone's mom. It was great fun.

Suddenly everyone saw me and it stopped being fun. I had lost my balance and snapped my wrist. The kids all gathered around, gawking. I was clutching my funny-looking wrist, wondering how embarrassed my son was. Oh yeah, it was broken all right...

The Emergency Room is no fun. It took a dog's age to see the doctor, get an x-ray, and finally get a splint. Considering the situation, I was in a relatively good mood; I was in better shape than some of the poor souls there. I noticed almost everyone there seemed to need some good news and a good laugh, so as the medical personnel gathered around my x-rays, I told them I wished I was a starfish, then they could just cut my arm off and I'd grow a new one. Ha ha.

Everyone chuckled except the doctor. (Who, by the way looked younger than my oldest pair of pantyhose). He got the last laugh, as he had to "reduce" my wrist. This is a medical procedure designed to inflict the greatest possible pain, moving the broken bones back in place, just before the cast goes on. It worked like a charm... no more wise cracks from me!! I took a snooze as I was waiting to be discharged. I dreamed of a beautiful tide pool in the bay, only to wake with a start...did they say "amputate"?!!

AARP 55 ALIVE DRIVING COURSE

Will be held on Fridays, April 7th and 14th, from 9am to 2 pm, at the Senior Center in Dixon. This is a refresher course for drivers aged 50 and older. The fee is $10 per person. Sign up with Jean in the Senior Center, 201 S. Fifth St., Dixon 678-7022.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HAPPY 80 PLUS BIRTHDAY

this special event will honor seniors 80 years old and older, and will take place on Sunday, April 9th at 2 pm in the Dixon Senior Center. All seniors are welcome! Please call Jean at 678-7022 to R.S.V.P. for this event...

DIXON HIGH STUDENT HEADED TO SWEDEN ON SPORTS AMABASSADOR SOCCER TEAM

Tamara Cazier of Dixon will have a lot to write about in her "What I Did on Summer Vacation" essay when she returns to school next year. The Dixon High freshman plans to spend 11 days in July on a good will tour of Sweden as a member of the People to People Sports Ambassador Soccer team. According to People to People, Tamara may be the first sports ambassador from Dixon.

Tamara and her team will participate in a soccer tournament, visit historical monuments, and interact with host students. Last year over 35,000 spectators watched as one representative team from each of 48 countries paraded through the stadium in Olympic style, bearing their home countries’ flags.

President Dwight D. Eisenhower founded the organization as a means for youth from different cultures to develop positive relationships through sports. He believed that if people came together in peace and in friendship, so eventually would nations. Since its begining in 1956, People to People has sent thousands of American students over-seas to participate in unique international experiences. In return participants are expected to share those experiences with their community when they return home. "You don’t have to be the best player there is ," the 14-year old explained. "You only have to love the game." Finances, on the other hand are another issue. The final tally-including transportation, accommodations, and other necessities-should range in the thousands. To help offset the costs Tamara is sending out letters to local businesses in search of sponsorships. She will also lean on family. "This is a once-in-a-life-time chance to go to Sweden and experience another culture" she said. If fostering relationships is the common goal, soccer is the common denominator. Tamara began playing soccer when she was 6. Though she cannot pinpoint her exact attraction to the sport she admits, it is an aggressive game.

Tamara did not play for Dixon High during the winter season due to time needed to recuperate after a knee injury that occurred in a past soccer season. But she is really looking forward for her chance to represent her community and country this summer in Sweden. If you are interested in sponsoring and helping Tamara represent Dixon and her country, or would just like more information about People to People, please contact 678-9526.

God Bless My Three Year Old!

March 22, 2000

I hope you all know what a stupendous occasion falls on today. Talk around our house has centered on this important celebration for weeks. The main honoree could care less, it seems, but his relations are trying their utmost to get him worked up into the glitz and glory that is his.... on his birthday. Yes, that's right, my baby Patrick is three today.

Birthdays have a special hold on the under 25 (and over 2) set, it seems. My four year old began planning her fifth birthday the day after her fourth birthday. She wouldn't even let me take down the crepe paper decorations from her May birthday until October!! She is constantly revising her guest list and her decoration choices. She is endlessly pretending its her birthday, and playing birthday with her animals and tea set. A sure fire distraction for her when she's in a grouchy mood, or mad, is to ask her about the latest birthday scheme.

Anyway, during the past few weeks, I have found out how very differently Patrick handles the birthday thing. His brother and sister have tried continuously to instill in him a sense of proper awe at his impending birthday. He is unimpressed by the thought of a cake, or a party. Patrick is not big on sweets and he doesn't have any real need of friends, yet. "But Patrick, its YOUR BIRTHDAY!!!" they plead, "you get to open presents." A spark.

Patrick asks about the kinds of presents he gets to open. "Do I get to open a Buzz Lightyear?"

Now, of course, they could not very well tell him what presents he was going to get, so they gave him the first phrase in the Kid's Survival Handbook: "Go ask mom." That's where I come in. He comes running to me asking about the presents he will get on his birthday. "Momma, momma, will I get to open a new Buzz Lightyear?!"

Now, I can't spoil the surprise. I ask him a stupid question, "Is that what you really want, honey?" I knew the answer. I told him, on his birthday, momma and daddy get him the presents that he asks for. I closed my eyes, waiting for the torrent of toys he would rattle off. To my surprise, he went off, with a pensive look on his face.

For days after that, as he played, he would point out things he liked. (It would usually end up being the toy he was playing with.) He'd be playing race cars, and he'd ask me if he would get some race cars for his birthday, or he'd be playing with his ragtag collection of Power Rangers, and ask about getting new Power Rangers. It didn't seem to matter to him what the answer was, yes or no.

God bless my little three-year old; he is happy with whatever he has and with whatever he gets!! SILVEYVILLE SCHOOL REACHES PAST THE 1,000,000 MARK

To date, the students of Silveyville Elementary School have read 1,356,147 pages toward their goal of 2,000,000. The school is participating in the "Read 2,000,000 in 2000" program begun on October 15, 1999. Part of the Governor's Reading Incentive Program, and authorized by Assembly Bill 2X, the program is aimed at encouraging students to make independent reading a regular activity. Origianally, the school had a goal of 20,000 pages by April 15th, but the response has been remarkable, according to Silveyville's principal, Lisette Estrella-Henderson. Congrats to all the hard-working students at Silveyville!!

FREE SUMMER CAMP DIRECTORY AVAILABLE

Anyone looking for a good camp for their youngster this summer should grab one of these directories. It lists the more than 100 day and residential California summer camps accredited by the American Camping Association. In addition to the more traditional camps, it includes family camps, special-interest camps, and camps for special populations, such as disabled children and children with certain illnesses. For your free copy, call 1-800-362-2236, or online at http://www.aca-camps.org

LIFEGUARD TRAINING CLASS

Dixon Recreation and Community Serivces will be offering a trainging class Monday - Friday, April 17-21st, 2000. This class could certify successful participants in Red Cross Lifeguard Training, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, and First Aid. Class will be held at the Pat Granucci Aquatic Center, Hall Park, Dixon, from 9 am to 4 pm. Students must be 15 or older, adn will be required to pass a skills pre-test at the first class. Registration is now being taken at City Hall. Fees are $80, which includes books and certifications. Registration deadline is April 12th at 5 pm. For more information, call Kristina McClennin at 678-7022.

LEC IS LOOKING FOR HOST HOMES FOR FRENCH STUDENTS

If you've ever wanted to visit France, but couldn't afford it, bring a French student into your home instead. Add a true international flavor to your summer by hosting a French student for four weeks. LEC, or Loisirs Culturels A L'Etranger, is a French non-profit organization, based in Paris, dedicated to increasing international understanding by bringing cultures together. The American family need only provide room and board, friendship and understanding. Host families need not have a teenager to host a student. The students will be here from August 3rd to 30th. Interested families can call Dave Jones at 693-1420, or e-mail him at Dave6278@aol.com.

DIABETES GRUPO DE APOYO

El Departmento de Educacion de la Salud de Clinica de Dixon, estara llevando a cabo una nueva session el Grupo de Apoyo para personas con Diabetes en Espanol. Se invita a todas las personas de habla hispana con diabetes y familiares o amigos que quieran saber mas acerca de la Diabetes. Viernes 24 de Marzo, 6:00 de la tarde, Clinica de Dixon, " Dixon Family Practice", 131 West A Street, #4 Dixon. Phone: 707-678-6227, or 707-693-6636.

FIRE DEPARTMENT HIRES CODE COMPLIANCE TECHNICIAN

The Dixon Fire Department announced the hiring of Joy Weaver as Code Compliance Technician, effective March 27th, 2000. Joy Weaver has held a position in the Dixon City Clerk's Department for the past 6 months, and was selected from a field of 8 finalists participating in an assessment center type testing process. Joy's work schedule will be Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. You can contact her at 678-7060.

ANNUAL TEA SPOTLIGHTS VICTORIAN ERA

The Dixon United Methodist Church invites you to journey back to the Victorian era at its fifth annual fashion show/luncheon on Saturday, April 8th. Two speakers from the Victorian Guild will offer an entertaining look back at the fashions and lifestyles that were popular during this romantic period. The program will be held at the United Methodist Church, 209 N. Jefferson Street, at 11:30 am. Tickets are $12, including lunch, and may be purchased from Suzanne Galloway, at 678-9397.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR THE DIXON YOUTH TRACK MEET

Volunteers are needed for the Dixon Youth Track Meet which will be held on Saturday, April 1st, at the Dixon High School track. "Without volunteers, it would be impossible to hold the Dixon Youth Track Meet," stated Recreation Director, Randy Davis. Volunteers need no track and field experience to help and will be needed from 9:45 am until about 1 pm the day of the meet. Those wanting to help can call Randy Davis at 678-7000.

I LOVE LOCY

For those of you who have wondered why the "40&8" group's Locy has not been in the Dixon May Fair Parade lately, the answer is simple. Four years ago, the group had a big problem with the Locy and ended up having to tow it to Vallejo. After years of problems, they have recently overhauled the whole thing in George Landoll's garage on Doyle Lane. The Locy will be in this year's May Fair Parade. To fund this project, the group plans to hold a Tri-Tip Dinner at the Vacaville Veteran's Memorial Building , 549 Merchant Street, on Saturday, April 1, 2000. The dinner will be $10 per person, with no host cocktails, from 6-7 pm, and dinner at 7 pm. For tickets, call Bob Fletcher at 678-5155, Bear Griffith at 678-2234, or, in Vacaville, call John Angier at 448-6950. For those of you not familiar with the 40&8 organization, it is composed of dedicated members of the American Legion who have been invited to join other members of the "La Societe Des Quarante Hommes Et Huit Chevaux ". Translated into English, this means the Society of 40 Men and 8 Horses, shortened to 40&8. (The name stems from World War I, when American troops were transported in small French railroad boxcars. The sides of the cars were stamped "40/8" on the side, meaning they could carry 40 men or 8 horses.) The members of this society give their time, money and effort to child welfare, nurse's training, dissemination of information on Hansen's Disease and other community services. The group's efforts have eased the suffering of children to the tune of $8 million dollars annually, and they have granted in excess of $20 million in a nursing scholarship program since its inception. They participate in youth sports programs, visitation to hospitalized veterans, disaster relief, and production of the "Carville Star", a publication of research information on Hansen's Disease (leprosy). They are a proud group of men, building strong communities through their work.

Saved by the Corn

March 1, 2000

I love to tell stories. Can you tell?

Last night, my little girl fell and smacked her head on her brother's toybox. She got quite the boo-boo and I tried to convince her to keep ice on it so it wouldn't turn into a real shiner. She doesn't like doing anything I tell her to begin with, so when I asked her to hold a dish towel with an ice pack to her forehead, her first reaction was adamantly not. It must have started hurting, because she eventually reneged. She curled up in my lap and I decided to tell her my icepack story...

"Do you want to hear a story about mom having to use an icepack?"

She nodded slightly... not too sure she really could take a momma story just then. "It's a good one, dear," I said. "It happened before you were born. It was two days before your dad and I got married, and I was rushing around trying to get things done. I was just leaving the house to drive to Sacramento to pick up my sister's dress. Your grandma and Aunt Annie were waiting in the car. I came out the back door and down the back steps. I must have been in a daze, because I didn't notice the dog coming over to say goodbye. Just as I reached the gate, I fell over the dog and hit my nose really hard on the brick fence post. The 'crack' of my nose on that post was the worst sound I ever heard. Of course, there was blood everywhere and I instantly had a picture of me coming down the aisle with a black and blue nose. Oh no!!!" She lay there wide-eyed and asked, "What did you do, momma?"

"I was really scared because I had just moved into the house where daddy and I started living after we were married, and not everything was working yet. One of the things that was not connected yet was the icemaker in the freezer!! I only had a few minutes before we had to leave for Sacramento, and I had no ice. I looked in the freezer and there it was..... my life was to be saved by a bag of frozen corn. I gave your grandma the keys, put the vegetables on my face and we took off."

She was laughing until she said suspiciously, "Is that true, momma?" "It is absolutely true, just ask your dad." She decided to keep the icepack in her bed for a while after that, I guess I made a believer out of her....

OOPS, I GOOFED LAST WEEK.

I hope the happy couple can forgive me. I printed that Regina Marez and Kenneth Fish were to be married on June 1st, and it should have been July 1st, 2000.

A PROUD DAD CAME IN TO THE OFFICE

Kurt Mueller came into the office last week and asked if we could reprint his baby's birth announcement with her picture... Here goes! Madison Ann-Frances Mueller was born on February 6, 2000 at 5:10 pm to proud parents Kurt and Julie Mueller of Dixon. Little Madison was 6 lbs. 5 oz. and 19-1/4" long. Maternal grandparents are Judy and John Winstead of Sunnyvale, CA. Paternal grandparents are William Jay Mueller and Sherry Eilermann, both of St. Louis, MO. Maternal great-grandparents are Everette and Mary-Ella Barrick of Bend, OR. Paternal great-grandparents are Margaret Mueller and Jim and Millie Eichholz, all of St. Louis. Welcome Madison!

HAPPILY EVER AFTER... STARTED OVERSEAS!!

Mary Ann Powell, of Dixon, and Bryan Neil Cornwell, of Biloxi, Mississippi, first met each other while stationed at Bitburg Air Force Base, in Germany. They first became friends, then suddenly realized their friendship was becoming more and more strong. They decided to get married when they faced the imminent possibility of being reassigned to different bases. They took the plunge on August 19,1999, and have not looked back yet. They are now residing, reassigned, at Keesler Air Force Base, in Biloxi, Mississippi. The bride's parents are Roy and Cookie Powell, of Dixon. The bride graduated in 1992, from Poudre High School, Fort Collins, CO, and is currently a Medical Lab Technician for the U.S. Air Force. The groom's parents are Charles and Mary Cornwell, of Metropolis, Illinois. The groom graduated from Massac County High School, Metropolis, IL; and he is currently a civil engineer with the U.S. Air Force. The couple took a honeymoon trip on the Rhine River, Germany.

TEENS!!

Come and hang out where you can play ping-pong, listen to music, watch movies, eat your favorite munchies, or just visit with your friends. The Dixon Senior/Multi-Use Center will be open for you from 7-10 pm, on Friday, March 10th, with special activities planned !!! Ages 12-18 years, cost $1. Come and be part of it!! For more information, call 678-7022.

INTERPRETIVE WALK ON QUAIL RIDGE RESERVE

Quail Ridge Wilderness Conservancy will conduct an interpretive walk on Quail Ridge Reserve on Saturday, March 4th, from 1-7 pm. The Reserve is located at the southwest end of Lake Berryessa. The walk, which is easy-to-moderate difficulty, is headed by QRWC's Executive Director Frank Maurer, a zoologist and ecologist. In addition to learning about wildlife and the native habitats of the peninsula, walkers will also learn a great deal about the human history of the Berryessa Region through photos and documents exhibited in our Visitor Center Museum. Be prepared for drizzle or showers; the walk will not be cancelled unless there is heavy rainfall. Bring a camera if you wish, drinking water and a picnic supper. At dusk, with our special ultrasonic listening device, we'll hear bats commence evening feeding. We'll probably hear forest owls at this time as well. Participants will meet at the Research Farm (25344 County Road 95, 0.6 miles north of Road 31, about 6 miles west of Davis), at 1 pm to carpool to the reserve. Return about 7 pm. Please call in advance to reserve a place, donations of $10 per person are asked. For reservations, call 530-758-1387

HEY OUT THERE!!

If you have any cute stories, phrases,etc. starring your kids, let me know!! Send them in to the paper, 529 North Adams Street, Dixon, or call 678-8917, fax them to 678-4056, or e-mail them to dscholl@onramp113.org. We'd love to hear from you!

The Moose Princess

February 26, 2000

I'm always enthralled when I come into my little child's room in the middle of one of their games. They love to make up games and they usually play them for hours; I love to hear them talking and get a good look into their imaginations.

The last time I caught Marie in a really good game was a while ago. (Come to think of it, maybe it was today with the speed of the days around our house.) She had her game spread out on the floor. There was a plethora of plastic animals, all lined up, watching. She had a castle with some doll furniture in it surrounded by lots of blocks and things, forming a rough wall.

The main characters of this fantasy were a plastic horse, a plastic cat, a plastic bad guy (Rasputen from the movie, Anastasia), and a plastic moose. The main characters did most of the talking. Each of them would address the moose with reverence. I watched for a while as the players brought "jewels" and plastic food to the moose, which was perched in the middle of the castle. While I was watching, there was a short skirmish between the bad guy and the horse, won by the latter, of course. The moose seemed to be very benevolent, with a great deal of affection for the cat. The bad guy stalked around a lot, and tormented everyone including the audience. I watched for a while, but I couldn't stand the suspense anymore. I asked her to tell me about her game.

"OK momma," she started. I sensed she knew she would have to go slowly with her explanation, since I was a grownup and all. "The name of the game is 'The Princess, the Cat, the Horse and the Bad Guy.' All of the animals love the princess and they love to bring her beautiful things. She is very nice to everyone and she loves everyone. She lives in this castle," she paused to see if I was getting any of this. "But why do you have all of these animals?" I probed.

Patiently, she went through the whole spiel,"...The horse is there because the princess likes horses, the cat is there because the bad guy eats cats. I told you, momma, he's a bad guy!...The moose is the princess; the bad guy turned her into a moose." "Awww, that's too bad," I said, " But, I saw the horsey beat the bad guy in the fight, why don't you get the bad guy to turn her back into a princess? "Because I can't find the princess doll!"

ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT

Susanna Regina Marez and Kenneth Roy Fish plan to be wed on June 1, 2000, at St. Peter's Church in Dixon. The happy bride's parents are Susie Adema, of Dixon, and Richard Marez of Dixon. Her grandparents are Conrad (dec.) and Ofelia Ruiz of Dixon, and Frank (dec.) and Mary Marez of Sacramento. Susanna, who goes by the name of Regina, graduated from Dixon High School in 1991, and currently is employed as a Title Representative at Fidelity National Title. The happy groom is Kenneth Roy Fish, of Carmichael, CA. The groom's parents are Beverly Acosta, of Kingstowne, VA, and Tom Fish of Sacramento. The groom graduated from La Sierra High School in 1980, and is the current owner of a Snap-On Tools franchise. The couples' engagement was announced on August 1st, 1999 in Las Vegas, NV. Congratulations and good luck to the happy couple!

PUT ON YOUR DANCING SHOES

There's a new class in town. Dixon Recreation and Community Services Dept. is offering Middle and Near Eastern Folk Dance classes starting Mondays, February 28th-April 3rd, at the Dixon Senior Center. Beginners class is at 7:15-8:15pm, and intermediates are from 8-9pm. Fee is $25 for one class; $33 for both classes. Registration deadline is February 24th. For more information, phone the instructor, Madea Mandella at 678-9429. BRRR..BRRRR...AHHHHH! Adult Lap Swim Opens Sponsored by the Dixon Recreation & Parks, Adult Lap Swim is scheduled to open Wednesday, March 1st, at the Pat Granucci Aquatic Center at Hall Park. Open to ages 18 & older. Swimmers of all skill levels welcome. 5:30- 6:30pm Monday through Friday. Pool is near Mayes and South Fifth Streets. Payment options are available. Monthly pass cost $25/month. Swimmers 55 and older pay $22/month. A book of ten tickets is $15 and can be used anytime during 1999. Swimmers can also pay $2, exact change, per visit. Register at the pool during program hours, or City Hall. For more information, call 678-7000.

AEROBICS AND BODY SCULPTING

Instructor Lynn Bobbitt has 16 years experience helping people get in shape and stay in shape. Low/medium/high impact aerobic program, bring your own step if you can, but you can do this exciting class without one. Class is Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 5:45 to 6:55 pm. Next session starts March 2-30th, for $28. Also offered is a Body Sculpting Class. You can increase strength and endurance and burn calories while toning and building your muscles. Can be taken alone, or in conjunction with the aerobic step class. Mondays from 5:45 to 6:45 pm. Next session is March 6-27th. Fee is $12.50 alone, ($10 if taken with Aerobics Step Class) For more information, call 678-7022.

BATTLES OVER INITIATIVES WARM UP AS DEADLINE APPROACHES

The March 7th ballot contains 20 different propositions on which voters will be asked to vote. The initiatives are 1A, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 & 31. The real newsmakers seem to be 1A, 22, 28, 30 & 31, of course. I'd like to know if anyone has noticed that voters and special interest groups are slowly beginning to take the responsibility for making laws away from the hands of legislators, and petitioning our needs directly to the voters. Yes, it's legal, but doesn't anyone wonder why it's necessary? As an aside.... the people who oppose Proposition 22, the Defense of Marriage Initiative, appear to be getting desperate, as "Yes on 22" signs have been torn down around town. I guess everyone is entitled to their opinion, as long as the bullies agree, huh?

SPEAKING OF INITIATIVES

Solano County Taxpayers have asked voters to reject Props 30 & 31, as a way to send a message that Californians oppose more lawsuits, increased fraud and higher insurance costs. For a listing of the more than 100 diverse groups and organizations opposed to Props 30 & 31, check out www.no30and31.org.

SCARF FOUND IN SAFEWAY PARKING LOT

I was driving through the Safeway parking lot and I saw a beautiful scarf in the rain on the ground. I didn't have time to stop and turn it in anywhere, so I'm letting you know... is it yours? Call 678-8917, describe it, and come get it!!

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