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ALWAYS Mendocino Coast's
FREE
May 2021
Lighthouse
Peddler
The Best Original Writing, plus the Guide
to Art, Music, Events, Theater, Film,
Books, Poetry and Life on the Coast
New Art and New Music
From Duo'Xplore!
on the Radio and
at Dolphin Gallery
Mendonoma musicians Harrison Goldberg and
Tim Mueller of duo’Xplore are releasing their pio-
neer album titled "dream smuggler" in May and the
public is invited to hear and see more. To celebrate
this creative accomplishment, KTDE 100.5FM/
The Tide Community Radio’s Erin and John will
premiere the band’s recording Saturday, May 29, at
5:00pm on their popular “Celtic Coasting” radio
program. (There will be an encore presentation of the album on the following Wednesday at
6:00pm on KTDE’s "Mendonoma Music" program.) Then on Sunday, May 30, the Dolphin Gal-
lery and Gift Shop in Cypress Village, Gualala will host a live duo’Xplore 'Meet the Artists' and
autograph signing event from 12:00noon to 2:00pm.
The beautiful six-panel audio CD package is paired with a unique and equally beautiful 8 x 8
inch hardcover Artbook featuring sixteen prints of Goldberg’s small abstract works in color. Each
painting is a natural companion . . . cont'd on page 9
"Translucence and Imagery, Jewelry and Photography"
Photography by David Brix and Jewelry by Deborah Threlkel • Opening at Coast Highway Art Collective, May 1
The members of the Coast Highway Art Initially, Brix struck out on his own, crea- com for more information about Brix and Threlkel says. “When assembling my de-
Collective are excited to invite the commu- ting a business in digital imaging (digital his work. signs, I use different combinations of shells,
nity to an opening reception on Saturday, and graphic illustration, retouching, and Threlkel had been making jewelry for 20 coral, drilled beach glass, luminous pearls
May 1 from noon to 5:00pm. The exhibit pre-press.) In 2006, desiring a more stable years before moving to Guala- and high-quality gemstone
features the works of guest artists David and lucrative career, he decided to pur- la 10 years ago. She was so in- beads. I wire wrap each piece
Brix, photographer and Deborah Threlkel, spired by the area, she wanting of jewelry creating a chain out
Abalone Queen Jewelry. to create a connection to the of a single piece of wire using
Brix began taking photographs when he beauty of the natural world either sterling silver, gold or
was in college, using a Nikon FM film SLR, she found here. Abalone gold fill wire. As much as I love
taking photos for class assignments of par- Queen Jewelry was concep- the act of creating my art with
ties and college life. He soon discovered the tualized, honoring the tradi- Abalone Queen Jewelry, it is
landscapes of Ansel tion and beauty of the abalone through one-on-one transac-
Adams and Edward shell found along the California Coast. The tions, of bringing joy, connecting and buil-
Weston, inspiring a intricate and creative earrings and necklaces ding relationships that I feel truly grateful to
new direction in his sue another kind of imaging as a Diagnostic crafted by Threlkel are well-known for their be doing what I do.”
art. Brix has seen Medical Sonographer. While not as expres- delicate appearance, which is as unique and The show runs from May 1 - 30. The
a lot of changes in sive, it allowed him to help others, as well as beautiful as it is strong and durable. Coast Highway Art Collective is regular-
photography de- to afford his creative passions. Every piece has its own inspiration and ly open Thursday through Sunday from
velopment over the Brix says “These days, I am blessed and story from within her experiences and each 11:00am to 2:00pm. The gallery is located
years, moving from thrilled to be able to explore even more of result is a one-of-a-kind creation. “With the at 284 Main Street, Point Arena, next door
developing prints in the beauty that our natural environment earth and oceans always changing, I can to the Redwood Credit Union. More infor-
his bathroom late at night to working on di- has to offer. I have rekindled my love for see as I gather and collect that there is no mation is available at www.coast-highway-
gital editing. “What has not changed for me shooting landscapes, nightscapes, and tra- longer the abundance of material that used artists.com.
along the way is the pleasure I get in making vel images, as well as more abstract images. to be found as I beach comb. Many of the
a photograph and bringing it to life, and the I hope that you enjoy my photographs as shells and their inhabitants are gone, some Far left: "Crater Lake Milky Way" by David Brix. Cen-
satisfaction I get in capturing the awe and ter: "Cathedral Cove" by David Brix. Above: "Abalone
much as I have enjoyed creating them!” facing extinction, making each piece of je-
Pearls" by Deborah Threlkel
beauty I find in the world,” says Brix. Visit Brix's website, ww.brix-photography. welry that much rarer and more precious,”
D. L. Lang Headlines Third Thursday Poetry "
Virtual Evening of Poetry Set For May 20
Point Arena Third Thursday Poetry pres- ets Laureate in Los Angeles. editor of the 2019 anthology Verses, Voices
ents a virtual Third Thursday Zoom Poetry She served as a judge for the Solano County & Visions of Vallejo. She has won 36 ribbons
reading at 7:00pm on Thursday, May 20, Fair Talent Competition, for the Joel Fal- and rosettes for her poetry at the Alameda,
2021. This month features Vallejo poet D.L. lon Poetry Scholarship, for Solano County Marin, San Mateo, and Solano County Fairs.
Lang, with open mic to follow. Library’s Teen Writing Con- D.L. Lang previously
D.L. Lang recently served as the 2017- test, and for Solano County worked at television stations
2019 Poet Laureate of Vallejo, California, Poetry Out Loud. She has KXOK and TV4OU, and
performing at numerous shows across the regularly performed at Poetry volunteered at PEGASYS,
San Francisco Bay Area. Highlights of her by the Bay since 2015, lead where she was awarded Best
tenure include giving the invocation for the Poetry in Notion poetry Editor in 2002, and Producer
the 2019 Vallejo Women’s March, the Poets circle, and reads live on the air of the Year in both 2003 and
Laureate on Social Justice tour, and attend- on OZCAT radio. 2004. She is also known for
ing the Historic Gathering of California Po- Kirkus Reviews stated that her work on the films Liquid
her poems “embrace spoken- Wind and the Hebrew Proj-
word rhythms and hippie ect. Lang also designed sev-
principles” and that they “leap off the page eral album covers and created music videos
and demand to be read aloud to release their for the psychedelic rock artist, Grey.
crackling energy.” Her writings are a blend D.L. Lang has been writing poetry for over
of memory, history, imagination, politics, 25 years, since she first got a taste of it in el-
and spirituality. Her poems have been trans- ementary school. Her early years were spent
formed into songs, Jewish liturgy, and used in Germany, Texas, Louisiana, and Oklaho-
as a means to advocate for peace and justice ma. Lang holds a B.A. in Film & Video Stud-
at area demonstrations. ies with a minor in Judaic Studies from the
D.L. Lang is the author of twelve poetry University of Oklahoma and an A.S. in Gen-
books, most recently Midnight Strike, and eral Studies from Northern Oklahoma Col-
one spoken word album, Happy Accidents. lege. She settled down in California in 2005,
Her work has appeared in the Benicia Her- and has resided in Vallejo, California with
ald, Poets Are Heroes Magazine, ReformJu- her husband, Tim, since 2014. Her website
daism.org, and the Jewish Journal of Los An- is: www.poetryebook.com.
geles, and has been anthologized in Marin Third Thursday Poetry & Jazz is supported by The Third
Thursday Poetry Group, many anonymous donors, and Poets &
Poetry Center Anthology, Vol. 21, A Poet’s
Writers, Inc. through a grant it has received from
Siddur, and Light & Shadow. She was the The James Irvine Foundation.
Pg 2 Lighthouse Peddler, May 2021
Advertisers Index From The Editor's Desk
• Anchor Bay Store 12 • KZYX 8 • This month it's new music from duo'Xplore. Explore. Really.(Cover).
• Arena Frame 4 • Little Green Bean 10 • The Coast Highway Art Collective builds a new exhibit with Brix and Threlkel. (Page 2).
• Arff Feed and Pet 15 • The Loft 13 • It's Poetry. And we can all use some. Be a part of this online. (Page 2).
• B Bryan Preserve 7 • MTA 15 • Speaking of poetry, find this month's haiku. (Page 2).
• Banana Belt Properties Back Cover • Office Source 4 • He's Baaaack! Our man in Florida, Tony tells us about some of his "neighbors". (Page 4).
• Denise Green 9 • Oceanic Land Office 8 • Take a drive to Elk this month. Sophia's art is featured at the Artists' Collective. (Page 4).
• Dream Catcher Interiors 14 • Phillips Insurance 7 • A mildly mysterious column about a June event. Or is it? (Page 4).
• Four-Eyed Frog Bookstore 10 • Point Arena Light Station 12 • "Seasons". A flashback courtesy Bernie & Reginald. Happy Birthday D. (Page 4).
• Franny's Cup & Saucer 2 • Red Stella 4 • Arena Theater brings three terrific screening options. Art, music, and art. (Page 5).
• Garcia River Casino 9 • Rollerville Cafe 12 • Frances, Fern, and Arena Theater have something for you. (Page 5).
• Green Room, The 2 • Sea Trader, The 14 • A New Moon is coming your way. Look up!. (Page 6).
• Gualala Arts 5 • Skunk Train Front Cover • A Full Moon is coming your way. Yes. Look up again. (Still Page 6).
• Gualala Building Supply 3 • Sonoma Clean Power 16 • A little drive and a lot of wonderful. The Botanical Gardens are calling you. (Page 6).
• Gualala Supermarket 6 • Spirit Veterinary Services 8 • Karin Uphoff returns with great colors and healthy ideas. (Page 7).
• Ignacio Health Insurance 13 •Village Bootery 9 • Quick. What the most majestic bird in America? (Page 7).
• KGUA 14 • Zen House Motorcycles 3 • Hey. We got a call from Black-footed ferrets. See what the have to say. (Page 7).
• KTDE 6 • Once upon a time, a fox came into our backyard . . . . (Page 8).
• The Salon is getting ready to wow us again. Don't refuse to come see! (Page 8).
• Carolyne Singer Will be at Dolphin Gallery, Saturday the 1st. (Page 9).
• So much news. How do we get through it all? David knows. (Page 10).
• Humankind. A Hopeful History. OK. Jennifer brings us some good news. (Page 11).
• Our reading list returns (courtesy of the Four-Eyed Frog. (Page 11).
Our thanks to May contributors include JoNel Aleccia, mai haiku, • Discovery Gallery reminds us of May's importance. (Page 11).
Rozann Grunig, Mitch McFarland, Blake More, Mary Jane Schramm, • You knew it would happen. It has. Mitch has gone nuclear! (Sort of). (Page 12)>
David Steffen, Tony Stanol, Karin Uphoff, and Jennifer Bort Yacovissi. • Mendonoma Health Alliance has more for you. Get healthier! (Page 13).
• The crossword puzzle is here. Good luck. (Page 14).
Cover images: • MJ returns with a look at Mother's Day. Really. (Page 15).
Painting: "The Shape Up" by Harrison Goldberg • The May Sudoku is here. (Page 15).
Daffodils image by ViolkaArt from Pixabay • Get Out! has things for you to hear and see and do. (Back cover).
Read the Peddler Online- "She's your mother, you love her
Its Free & In Full Color! There won't be another place like her again that you call home
She stands here to help you, there's nothing she won't do
www.thelighthousepeddler.com As long as she's alive, you're not alone, you've got each other
And the secrets in your heart she's always known"
from "Mother" by Sugarland
Issue #235 May 2021
Lighthouse Peddler
Dolly Steffen: Publisher, Production Mgr.
David Steffen: Editor, Designer
lighthousepeddler@mcn.org
(707) 684-1894
P.O. Box 1001 Point Arena
Point Arena, CA 95468 www.thelighthousepeddler.com 707-882-2281
Tuesday - Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Pg 3 Lighthouse Peddler, May 2021
The View from Florida: Alligator in the Driveway Something to Think About.
By Tony Stanol, South Florida Correspondent Maybe June. Maybe on the
South Florida is hundreds of miles south of a few rays on the grassy banks and we get a Grounds of Gualala Arts. Maybe
southern states Alabama, Georgia and Mis- better look at them.
sissippi. You’d think we’d be considered the They range in size from young’uns to All of Us, Sort of Together.
39150 Ocean Drive, Suite 2 As many of you, perhaps most of you
deep, deep South, catching catfish by hand adults. Some wiseacre named the biggest
in Gualala know, we're starting to hear about the state
and calling each other Bubba, Fern and Billy one “Samsonite”. He’s a well-fed 11 footer.
of California opening up a little bit. With
Bob. But Sarasota is populated with fewer The lakes are stocked with bass and we oc-
PRINT • SCAN • FAX • EMAIL that in mind, Gualala Arts has been working
rednecks and more Midwesterners than our casionally see a gator munching on a tasty
Business Cards • Building Plans
on a possible special evening of music. It's
neighbors in the states to the north. We’re treat. I don’t think any small pets have been
Postcards • Flyers • Posters
jazz, and it's classical, and if it comes to pass,
more country club and less Duck Dynasty. taken by gators here. But I read a story that
Signage • Secretarial Services
it will be a wonderful live event outside on
In fact, we rarely hear a Southern accent and two German Shepherds went missing after
Office Supplies • Tech Accesories
the grounds of Gualala Arts.
I don’t even know where to get a serving of venturing into the grassy marsh in Venice, a
I was in a conversation with someone
grits here. town just south of here.
ph 707.884.9640 about the idea and I can only hope that it
We’re on the Florida Gulf Sometimes I am surprised
will become a reality in June. I applaud the
fax 707.885.0191 Coast which began being pop- how close I suddenly get to a
creative minds that are working on this pos-
officesourcegualala@gmail.com ulated in the early 1900’s by gator while I’m riding my bike
sible event.
people migrating south from along the waterway. They’re
BUSINESS HOURS Illinois, Michigan and Ohio. surprised, too, and generally
I'm writing this to ask you to think good
Mon • Tue • Thu • Fri thoughts, positive thoughts. Drop a coin
It’s also mellower here than scramble back into the water at
into a wishing well. Stand by the ocean and
2pm - 4pm the other side of the state. The a faster speed than you would
CLOSED: Wednesday and Weekends
say a little prayer. Let's work together to cre-
East Coast of Florida is filled think possible. I once snuck up
ate a force multiplier of positive energy.
with cranky old New Yorkers on one who was under a bridge
We all need to know that the light we're
and Easterners. Locals tell me on the embankment to get a
seeing at the end of the tunnel is truly light.
the state developed this way close-up shot. When I came too
And I promise you this. If it can happen—by
because Midwesterners drove south on I75 close the monster flexed its mighty tail and
virtue of the State of California, the County
and the Easterners used I95. I don’t know flipped into the water with a huge splash.
of Mendocino, and a couple of creative peo-
why air travel didn’t cause people to venture I drove my older daughter’s Mini Coo-
ple here on the Mendonoma Coast, it will
east or west of their destined paths but some per for a few years while she was out of the
happen.
traditions run deep. My family and I lived in country teaching in Costa Rica. One morn-
We at the Lighthouse Peddler have our
Connecticut and California before coming ing I got into the car in the driveway and put
fingers and toes crossed. If this slightly cryp-
here so we defy all the norms. it into reverse. It moved a few inches but
tic message has you thinking good thoughts,
Open We live in a community with several inter-
connected manmade lakes. In Florida, fresh
stopped and I thought the brake was en-
gaged. It wasn’t so I gunned it and felt like I
I thank you.
The Editor.
Wednesday -Saturday standing water means alligators. There are was riding over a curb.
11 to 4 Sunday 11 to 3 signs here that warn you to stay out of the Suddenly, a small three foot alligator shot
water, as inviting as it is on a warm day. straight out from under the car into the
"Seasons"
My wife, Karen thought it would be fun to bushes! I couldn’t believe I didn’t squash
hwy 1 gualala • 707-884-1072 • www.redstella.com paddle board on the smooth lakes until she it by accident but it looked more annoyed
read the signs. It’s approximately 40 yards than injured. It headed to the side of the For our world The circle turns again
across the narrow part of the lake behind house but I decided not to go hunting for it
"I would rather have a mind opened by our house. My vow before we move some- because the brush is pretty dense there. It Throughout the year we sing the seasons
where else is to swim that distance as fast as must’ve been three inches from my ankle change
wonder than one closed by belief." I could and hope to not get hit by a gator. I under the car when I first got in. I told my
believe it’s possible. wife not to go outside with the dog (an ag-
Gerry Spence (1929-) I like seeing these prehistoric creatures. ing Pug) until the coast is clear. It’s meant a lot for me to start anew
Not a week goes by when I don’t see at least Someday I’ll probably see that gator
one in our community lakes. They’re usual- again undoubtedly with a feint foreign tire Oh, the winter’s cold but I’m so warm with
ly in the water swimming slowly by swiping track on his back. I think I’ll christen him you
their long tails side to side. In early spring “Lucky.” I just hope I don’t bump into Lucky
they often climb out of the water to catch on my farewell lake swim.
Out there, there’s not a sound to be heard
The Artists' Collective in Elk Presents Sophia Sutherland
New Exhibit Opens May 8 And the seasons seem to sleep upon their
The Artists' Collective in Elk will present Sophia Sutherland’s ceramic figurative sculpture words
exhibition in May. There will be an opening reception in the gallery garden on Saturday, May
8 from noon to 3:00pm. Please note: Masks and social distancing are required.
Sutherland has lived on the Mendocino Coast for more than 50 years. Her work can be As the waters freeze up with the summer's
found in collections in the United States and internationally. Her overtly whimsical and end
covertly philosophical sculptures generate delight and inspiration to her fans, both those
who've followed her for years and those who've just discovered her recently. The exhibit will It’s funny how young lovers start as friends.
also include some of her 3-D work. There will be magic bowls (big and small), patterned
rattles and goddess amulets.
The Artists' Collective in Elk is located at 6031 South Highway 1 in Greater Downtown
Bernie Taupin (1950-)
Elk, and is open everyday from 11:00am to 4:00pm. Information is at 707-877-1128.
Pg 4 Lighthouse Peddler, May 2021
Arena Theater Presents Two New Telecasts—Art and Music Grab A Seat or
Live-Streamed Events Available Now Through June 1 Sit In YOUR Seat!
New live stream programs are ready to May's second new film is "Hermitage: Arena Theater Theater's
watch this month from Arena Theater. In The Power of Art". It's a spectacular Great "Have A Seat Next To Fern"
collaboration with telecast provider "BY Art on Screen documentary series, touring Fundraiser Continues.
Experience" (Met Opera, Bolshoi Bal-
let, National Theatre Live, and Great Art (Good News, Bad News, Good News)
on Screen), Arena Theater will present Here's the Good News: Arena Theater’s
two more live stream events over the next pop-up Drive-in returns to the Point Arena
month including one captured live on-stage Cove featuring the award-winning mov-
theatrical performance, and one Great Art ie, “Nomadland,” on Saturday, May 8, at
on Screen fine arts documentary. 9:00pm. The screening is a fundraiser for
Like other streamed events from Arena the theater, and tickets are $100 for two
Theater, watching any of the programs is people, with an additional $50 each for
available by going to the theater's website: more than two people. Space is limited, and
ArenaTheater.Org, and then clicking on people are encouraged to make their reser-
the telecast tab. Included in the upcom- vations soon.
ing productions are “Secret Impression- OK, here's the bad news. The Drive in
ists,” “42nd Street – The Musical,” and movie on May 8 is Sold Out! Bummer. Lots
“Hermitage: The Power of Art.” of you wanted to go. But there's something
“Secret Impressionists,” (Great Art on else to consider. And that brings us to the
Screen documentary series), April 28 – other Good News.
May 4, “42nd Street – The Musical,” (NT "Nomadland" was nominated for six
Live from London’s West End), May 12 – Academy Awards, and won for Best Picture
18, “Hermitage: The Power of Art,” (Great at the Oscars last month (it was also nomi-
Art on Screen documentary series), May through St. Petersburg’s State Hermitage nated for Best Director and Best Actress.)
26 – June 1. Museum, a wonderful complex of buildings “Nomadland” was partially filmed on the
May's first new offering is "42nd Street – with the largest collection of paintings in the Mendocino Coast. (Lucky ticket holders
The Musical" (from London’s West End), world, to retrace two and a half centuries. can sign up for guided tours of the “No-
captured live from the London stage and Audiences pass through the magnificent madland” filming location at Kenny Jowers
interiors that provided a meeting point for and Robert Larson’s Manchester Ranch,
foreign artists, architects and intellectuals complete with a visit of the farm house and
creating connections through art and cul-
ture. Toni Servillo leads us on this journey
through the Hermitage and the magnificent
city of St. Petersburg with its waterfront,
statues, canals and the bridges that form a
symbolic cultural and visual element be-
tween places and distant civilizations. This
film will be available from May 26 through
June 1. Tickets are $10. The appointment
screenings (all Pacific Time) will be daily
at 10:00am, 1:00pm, 4:00pm and 7:00pm.
The appointment screenings are avail- animals, scheduled for Sunday, May 9. (If
able one week for each program, from you are a ticket holder, check with Arena
Wednesdays to Tuesdays, daily at 10:00am, Theater.)
1:00pm, 4:00pm and 7:00pm. Tickets for Frances McDormand, who is a big sup-
National Theatre Live shows and Great Art porter of Arena Theater, and small, inde-
on Screen documentaries are available via pendent movie houses in general helped
directed by the original author of the show, the streaming platform, Stellar Tickets, with make the drive-in screening possible. It's
Mark Bramble, is one of Broadway's most events viewable on any device, and custom- also worth noting that McDormand, who
classic and beloved tales. Full of crowd- ers can watch using a web browser, a mo- has friends in the Point Arena area, pur-
pleasing tap dances, popular musical the- bile app or from their TV by accessing the chased two seats through the “Have A Seat-
atre standards including “Lullaby of Broad- Stellar app, available across a number of de- Go Green” campaign to pay off the theater’s
way”, “We’re in the Money", “42nd Street” vices: Roku, Amazon (Fire), Google Play, solar loan, one for herself and her husband,
and more, plus show-stopping ensemble Apple TV. Stellar will provide tech support Joel Cohen, and a second one for Fern, her
production numbers. Not to be missed! and troubleshooting if needed. “Nomadland” character. You can support
5 Stars "A wow factor revival of one of the Arena Theater is located at 214 Main the theater and have the seat next to Fern's
greatest musicals of all time" – The Times Street, Point Arena, California. Arena The- by winning the Arena Theater seat auction.
(London) 5 Stars "The mother of all show- ater is a member-supported community Bidding starts at $1000 and the highest
biz musicals" -- Daily Telegraph Available theater owned and operated by the Arena bidder will get a plaque placed on the seat
for viewing from May 12-May 18. Tickets Theater Association, a 501 (c) (3) not for arm with an inscription of their choice. For
are $15. The appointment screenings (all profit corporation. For additional informa- the auction link visit arenatheater.org. The
Pacific Time) will be daily at 10:00am, tion visit: www.arenatheater.org. auction for seat number E9 ends June 16,
1:00pm, 4:00pm and 7:00pm. 2021.
Pg 5 Lighthouse Peddler, May 2021
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
New Moon An Ocean-Front Treasure, Just a Short Drive Away
One of the wonderful things about liv- • Spring Bio-Blitz Challenge. The Spring • Intro to Nature Journaling. Here's a
ing on the coast is being connected to, well, BioBlitz is a self-guided exploration of the great (and inspiring) way to spend a Sat-
the coast. Our regular readers and the visi- Gardens' 47-acre natural wonder. They're urday. Nature Journaling will help improve
tors who pick up The Lighthouse Peddler challenging you to capture the biodiver- your observational skills, drawing skills,
while they're exploring the coast know that sity at the Gardens between April 30 and and add to your knowledge about your sub-
from the Russian River to Fort Bragg we May 3 using the iNaturalist app. Last year ject. The Botanical Gardens is the perfect
can drive an hour (or so) and see a long list in Mendocino County, 1,427 observations setting to begin this journey. You have a va-
of California's wonders. There are the glori- of 618 species were made by 287 partici- riety of subjects to observe in their natural
May 11 ous redwoods, the rugged coast, numerous pants. Seven regions/cities in California environment at a specific time of day and
parks, the scenic winding roads, 9 signifi- are participating this year,
cant rivers—Noyo, Big, Little, Albion, Big including Costa Mesa-Or-
Full Moon Salmon, Navarro, Garcia, Gualala, and Rus- ange County, Inland Em-
sian. And that list doesn't include offshoots, pire, Los Angeles County,
tributaries, adjacent creeks and more. Mendocino County,
While you're here, you can also take time Sacramento Region, San
to visit a number of 'destination' stops, and Diego County, and San
one of those is the Mendocino Coast Bo- Francisco Bay Area. Both
tanical Gardens. The Botanical Gardens you and the Gardens will
hosts plant sales, art exhibits, educational be thrilled to see what dis-
workshops, bird and whale watching walks, coveries you've made.
May 26 botanical meetings, fundraisers, and more.
Many of their classes and workshops
• Rhododendron Photo
Show. In lieu of a tradi-
have limited space. It's best to call the Gar- tional Rhododendron
dens at 707-964-4352 ext 16 to reserve a Show, the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gar- season. Some of the skills you will learn are
space. Note: payment is due upon sign-up; dens is hosting a photo competition — the drawing the structures of plants, observing
and may be non-refundable. A small fee is 2021 Rhodo Photo Show — to highlight and drawing small, quick landscape envi-
charged for most classes. Guided walks are this season's best rhodie specimens. Fill ronments, page layout and lettering, captur-
your feed with cascades of color from the ing information in a variety of formats, and
genus Rhododendron. Visit the Botanical color techniques to enhance your pages.
Gardens' Facebook album to view the offi- There will be many handouts and models,
cial contest entries. They will love to share samples of different journals and journaling
your colorful pics #rhodophotoshow! En- styles, and nature journal kits. Contact the
try Deadline: Sunday, May 9. Gardens to register. It's Saturday, May 22,
• Yoga at the Gardens. How about from 10:00am to 3:00pm with Mary-Ellen
"Mindful Yoga with Delphine Davidson"? Campbell in the MCBG Education Center.
It's scheduled for Sundays at 12:00pm on The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
the Event Lawn at the Botanical Gardens has something for everyone. Including you.
beginning May 16. It's a unique yoga expe-
Images:
generally included in Gardens' admission; rience as you find yourself encircled by tow-
Above: The Rhody Path
see individual listings for more informa- ering cypress and the melodies of nature . . .
tion. Here's a brief look at some of the up- birds, bees, and the mighty ocean. All levels Left: American Kestrel. Falco Sparverius.
coming offerings. are welcomed in this class. Images courtesy MCBG.
SUNDSTROM MALL, GUALALA 884-1205 Monday - Saturday, 7AM - 7PM Sunday, 7AM - 6PM
Pg 6 Lighthouse Peddler, May 2021
Words on Wellness • California Lilac and Red Root At Risk of Extinction, Black-Footed Ferrets
by Karin Uphoff Get Experimental COVID Vaccine
Whether on the trail or in town, a season- blood. Indeed the red rootbark and twigs By JoNel Aleccia, Kaiser Health News
al delight is the eye-catching blue, purple or are used in decoctions or tinctures to im-
white flower clusters of Ceanothus spp., lo- prove blood exchange between capillaries, In late summer, as researchers acceler- variant appears to be extinct.
cally called ‘California lilac’, ‘blue blossom’ intracellular spaces and lymph fluid. This ated the first clinical trials of COVID-19 In the U.S., scientists have not found
or ‘tick bush’, but known to herbalist as red can help chronically swollen and congested vaccines for humans, a group of scientists similar COVID mutations in the domestic
root. The Pacific Northwest lymph nodes after a pro- in Colorado worked to inoculate a far more farmed mink populations, though they re-
boasts over thirty species of longed illness, lymphedema, fragile species. cently noted with concern the discovery of
this Buckthorn native, many swollen spleen or impaired About 120 black-footed ferrets, among the first case of the virus in a wild mink in
of them endemic to Califor- blood to fluid exchange in the most endangered mammals in North Utah.
nia. Most common in our the heart or kidneys. Red America, were injected with an experimen- “For highly contagious respiratory vi-
wilds is C. Thyrsiflorus, and root can ameliorate “sticky” tal COVID vaccine aimed at ruses, it’s really impor-
both local bees and honey blood with stagnant fluids, protecting the small, wea- tant to be mindful of the
bees love these flowers, in- thus helpful in formulas for sel-like creatures rescued animal reservoir,” said Dr.
cluding the many landscape cysts, fibroids and conges- from the brink of extinction Corey Casper, a vaccinolo-
varietals. The larvae of the tion of the heart, however four decades ago. gist and chief executive of
California tortoise-shell but- it’s contraindicated for those The effort came months the Infectious Disease Re-
terfly feeds on this plant, though the adult who are on anticoagulant medication un- before U.S. Department of search Institute in Seattle.
butterflies prefer manzanita flowers. less otherwise specified by a medical pro- Agriculture officials began “If the virus returns to the
Red root can be a small bush to a me- fessional. Homeopathic Ceanothus Ameri- accepting applications from animal host and mutates, or
dium-sized tree and tends to have reduced, canus is choice for swollen, painful spleen veterinary drugmakers for changes, in such a way that
tough, almost parallel veined leaves with a and chronic bronchitis. a commercial vaccine for it could be reintroduced to
shiny surface. You can pick leaves and twigs This beautiful plant and its medicine is minks, a close cousin of humans, then the humans
to make an infusion for topical use in ton- a good pick for drought-tolerant gardens, the ferrets. Farmed minks, would no longer have that
ing skin (acne) and addressing swellings, with no need for fertilizer. In fact, it culti- raised for their valuable immunity. That makes me
or drink as a tea for gently improving over- vates a symbiotic relationship with soil mi- fur, have died by the tens of Black-Footed Ferrets. Image by very concerned.”
all movement of stuck fluids. It combines crobes and fungi that allows their root nod- thousands in the U.S. and Kimberly Tamkun, USFWS. For the newly vaccinated
well with other fluid-movers like, cleavers, ules to fix nitrogen - adding fertilizer can kill been culled by the millions ferrets, the main risk is to
peppermint, calendula or juniper berry. good micro-organisms and make room for in Europe after catching the COVID virus the animals themselves. They’re part of a
This plant is quick to inhabit disturbed or bad ones. The flowers of some varieties also from infected humans. captive population at the National Black-
burned areas, with poor, rocky soils. Its contain saponins, so that if your rub them in Vaccinating such vulnerable species footed Ferret Conservation Center outside
seeds are adapted for surviving fire and its your hands with water, weak suds will form against the disease is important not only Fort Collins, Colorado, where there have
affinity for fire along with its reddish-col- (and we’re all needing to wash our hands for the animals’ sake, experts say, but po- been no cases of COVID-19 to date. But
ored roots suggests it is medicine for aiding these days…). tentially for the protection of people. Some the slender, furry creatures — known for
of the most pernicious human diseases their distinctive black eye mask, legs and
Karin C. Uphoff, is a Master Herbalist, Iridologist, Bodyworker and author of
Botanical Body Care: Herbs and Natural Healing for Your Whole Body. have originated in animals, including the feet — are feared to be highly vulnerable to
Learn more at: www.karinuphoff.com. Image: California lilac 'Blue Sapphire' courtesy ProjectNoah.org' new coronavirus, which is believed to have the ravages of the disease, said Tonie Rocke,
spread from bats to an intermediary species a research scientist at the National Wildlife
Bald Eagle: "Majestic Birds" before jumping to humans and sparking the Health Center who is testing the ferret vac-
In 1782 the Bald Eagle was chosen as our life. Still, each spring courtship is dramatic, pandemic. cine.
national symbol for its strength, fierce de- including flight displays when pairs lock The worry when it comes to animals like Continued on Page 13
meanor, and loyalty. Others, including Ben talons and plummet to earth in a series of farmed minks, which are kept in crowded
Franklin, mumbled that they are pirates whirling summersaults. pens, is that the virus, contracted from hu-
who steal fish from Ospreys They are known for making mans, can mutate as it spreads rapidly in the
and are scavengers that feed the largest single nest, which susceptible animals, posing a new threat if
on carrion. They also spend can be over fifteen feet across. it spills back to people. Danish health offi-
a lot of time hanging out at One nest has been used for cials in November reported detecting more
dumps. Still, I think all are thirty-five years. Both male than 200 COVID cases in humans that had
awed by the sight of this ma- and female incubate the two variants associated with farmed minks, in-
jestic bird. white eggs for three weeks. cluding a dozen with a mutation scientists
Bald Eagles are recognized by their giant One chick will hatch first. In most years feared could undermine the effectiveness
size. They can stand three feet tall and have the second chick will not survive because of vaccines. However, officials now say that
a wingspan of six feet. It takes four years for of starvation or harassment by the larger
them to get that pure white head and tail of one. This is termed obligate siblicide. Our
an adult. Adults have a large, yellow beak national symbol is also a symbol of hope.
and yellow lower legs that are not feath- Bald Eagles were extremely threatened, due
ered. Their fiercelooking eye is also yellow. to pesticides and to being shot by ranch-
In winter, they are a rare and exciting ers. In 1963, there were 417 nests in all the
visitor to the coast. In summer, Some nest United States. Now, because of protection,
around northern California's lakes and there are over 10,000 nesting pairs. In 2007,
large rivers but most head farther north. they were removed from the endangered
Pairs are extremely loyal and most mate for species list.
Our thanks to the Mendocino Coast Audubon Society for contributing this article about the Western Tanager. Each month, the
Lighthouse Peddler features another bird regularly seen at or near the Mendonoma Coast.
More information is at www.mendocinocoastaudubon.org.
Pg 7 Lighthouse Peddler, May 2021
8th Annual Gualala Salon Opens May 15
North Coast Artists Guild Fills the Exhibit Halls for the Salon and the Salon des Refusés
"The Gualala Salon and Salon des Re- judges is displayed in the Salon des Refusés, artwork themselves.
fusés has earned a reputation as the top located in the Elaine Jacob Foyer and Cole- Many artists save their best new art for
judged and juried fine art exhibit on the this exhibit, which showcases outstanding
Mendonoma coast. It opens Saturday, May visual art without regard to type of media.
15 from 11:00am to 7:00pm. Members can The award prizes are the largest offered on
preview the exhibit on Friday, May 14 from the coast. Accepted work will be eligible for
11:00am to 4:00pm. the First [$1000] Second [$750] and Third
Organized and curated by the North [$500] Place awards.
Coast Artists Guild (NCAG), the exhibit Work not juried into the Salon will be
is held annually at the Gualala Arts Center eligible for the People’s Choice Awards of
and will fill three large gallery spaces with $100, $75, and $50. Additional awards in-
Build YOUR over one hundred pieces of fine art. Presti- clude: a Judges Award of $100 for the best
gious artists, art dealers, academics and col- work by an artist under eighteen years of
Ocean View Home Priceare
lectors Reduced!
recruited to be judges. age; a Collage Group Award of $100 for
There is still time to become part of this man Hall. Thus, all artwork submitted into best collage; and a Founders Award of $100
on the Gualala Ridge. event. You'll find the show is exhibited. Which artists have awarded by the three founders of The Salon
the registration been selected into the Salon is a tightly held show.
Price Reduced! $54,997 form at Guala- secret until opening night.
laArts.org, or you There is no theme for artwork entered in
• Create an Ocean View or Nestle Your can call the Gua- 2021, but the show’s concept is based on the
Home among the Beautiful Trees. lala Arts office at original Paris Salon des Refusés exhibition,
• Improved lot on Ocean Ridge Dr. 707-884-1138. which took place in Paris in 1863, showing
• Away from the Highway 1 Noise. Registration ends works that had been rejected by the official
• It’s Warmer on the Ridge. on Monday, May Paris Salon judges. These judges represent-
• Quiet Residential Area. 3, so plan on reg- ed the French Academy and were advocates
• Water meter at Street. istering now. In of a traditional, orthodox style of painting
addition, all art and sculpture. In 1863, they rejected almost
(Subject to moratorium).
will be taken into 3,000 pieces of work, including many now
• Electric at Street. the art center on considered masterpieces such as Manet’s In the spirit of the original Paris Salon
• Septic Permit on file. Wednesday and des Refusés, all visitors to the Gualala Salon
• High speed internet available. Thusday, May 5 des Refusés are able to vote for the “People’s
contact: Robert Juengling, Lic. 00920708 and 6. Time is short, so register now. Choice” awards. In fact, many artists prefer
Oceanic Land Office Once the call goes out, and the art ar- to be selected as a “refusé” to receive the
39150 S. Hwy 1, Gualala, 95445 rives it will be the judges who decide which public’s opinion. This is a wonderful oppor-
707-884-4757 • OceanicLand.com
Look for the Oceanic Land Company sign at artwork will be accepted and shown in the tunity for artists to stretch themselves and
38060 Ocean Ridge Drive, Gualala, CA 95445. Burnett Gallery, the Salon. The balance of experiment.
the art work not juried into the Salon by the Gualala Arts is the jewel for the arts on
the Mendonoma Coast. Why not be a part
of the 2021 Salon?
Just Another Day On The Coast Le Dejeuner sur l’Herbe (top) and Whis-
This Fox Decided To Spend An Afternoon Sunning in a Backyard on the Ridge. tler’s Symphony in White, No. 1 (left). The (Near left painting is François Joseph Heim
resulting furor led Emperor Napoleon III to "Charles X Rewarding Artists". Above photograph
mandate that a second exhibition (dubbed is 2018 First Place Winner Lauren Sanford, with
the “Salon des Refusés”) be organized, so “Pick of the Paramour”, stoneware, underglaze,
that the public might judge the merits of the gloss.)
Pg 8 Lighthouse Peddler, May 2021
DUO'XPLORE Cont'd from cover each session with a brief discussion of the Carolyne Singer
piece to one of the 16 tracks of music on the proposed groove, including a key signature
to be considered. Once this was estab-
At the Dolphin Gallery May 1
CD (The image and the music track share
the same title.) Together the music and art lished, Tim would begin building his parts Conversation and Demonstration
create an immersive music experience for of the composition. Combining organic of her Collage Process
the viewer/listener. The CD and Artbook Multi-faceted artist Carolyne Singer will
come packaged together as a set, which be visiting the Dolphin Gallery in Gualala
can be purchased at the Dolphin Gallery on Saturday, May 1 to answer questions
or online from the band’s webpage DuoX- about her art and demonstrate her collage
plore.Art. process to visitors. She will be available Sat-
There is an obvious and natural synergy urday from 1:00pm to 4:00pm.
of the musicians, the music and the art. The current exhibit at the Dolphin, “One
Goldberg describes the creative process Woman’s Dreams and Visions”, features
for this new artistic venture: “the inspi- Singer’s mixed-media sculptures, collages
ration behind the mixed media aspect of using her mono-printed papers and colored
the project came after Tim had viewed pencil drawings.
www.thelighthousepeddler.com • always free & in color
samples of my visual art and showed me
a copy of a CD titled the fawn, by the
group, The Sea and Cake. The album’s
understated bone-white cover features
several horizontal rows of small vertical
white and earth-toned, book-shaped pan- drums with electronic rhythm tracks and
els. Not only did I feel that my work could then looping them, he would add live elec-
showcase well in this format, but the idea tric bass, guitar, some keyboard, sometimes
of including visual art to accompany our wind chimes or perhaps more synthesized
music was appealing, particularly as a way sounds, all subject to additional looping. Singer will be demonstrating how she prints
of engaging the listener in a parallel artistic The clever arrangements that developed unique, patterned papers for her collages.
experience. Hence the innovative concept along the way were further augmented dur- Very different are her colored pencil draw-
of dream smuggler came to life.” ing subsequent mixing, while carefully pre- ings using the butterfly format to explore
Reflecting the daring improvisational spir- serving the sense of freshness which is only abstract design. Also on view are Singer's
it conveyed in the band’s name, duo’Xplore heightened by the brevity of each musical figurative sculptures inspired by "waking
“sketch”. This interesting roux that Tim had dreams and visions". “If more of us valued food
concocted thus created a All are welcome, social distancing will and cheer and song above
tantalizing opportunity continue, and masks are required. The Dol- hoarded gold, it would be a
for me to introduce a sax phin Gallery is in North Gualala’s Gallery merrier world.”
melody line or motif that District at 39114 Ocean Drive, Cypress Vil- J.R.R. Tolkien(1892-1973)
would enhance and add lage. Information is at 707.884.3896.
spice to the emerging rec-
ipe. Besides the familiar
musical flavors of tenor,
soprano and alto saxo-
The Garcia River Casino
phone, I introduced a se-
lection of novel and exotic
voices using my recently
Has Reopened.
acquired Roland AE-10 G
Aerophone wind synthe- Open Daily, 2:00 - 9:30pm
has typically offered Mendonoma coast au- sizer.
diences a “guitar and saxophone adventure”
focusing primarily on the spontaneous,
“Tim’s incomparable guitar artistry then
drew on his diverse musical influences and special protocols are in
imaginative and unpredictable reworking
of popular jazz tunes and classics from the
performance experience to further enrich
the music, adding extra textures and energy place to keep us all safe!
Great American Songbook. With dream to the already exciting compositions. An in-
smuggler, Mueller and Goldberg embarked spired interplay throughout, and reflecting
our signature duo’Xplore sound, the music
During This Phase Of Reopening,
on a new, equally satisfying sonic journey
that features their original music, without successfully conveys the high energy and
immediacy of our live performances.”
Only The Slot Floor Will Be Open.*
sacrificing any of the unmistakable energy
and groove of the duo’s years-long creative Join these two talented musicians for
collaboration. the radio premier on May 29, and at the *Once Capacity Is Reached, Additional Guests Will Not
Recorded live in Tim’s rustic Studio Dolphin Gallery on Sunday, May 30. The Be Allowed In The Facility Until Occupancy Is Reduced
Oisette in a remote corner of Mendocino Dolphin Gallery is ay 39114 Ocean Drive, Below That Maximum Level. Until further notice the
County worked. Goldberg added, “the re- Cypress Village, Gualala’s Uptown gallery River Grill and Bar are closed.
laxed and laid back atmosphere encouraged District No food or drinks are allowed on the gaming floor.
our creativity and engendered a dialogue of Pictured: More information is at TheGarciaRiverCasion.com.
soft but energetic restraint that informed Left, Harrison Goldberg.
our musical conversations. We would begin Right, Tim Mueller. 22215 Windy Hollow Rd, Point Arena, CA 707 467 5300 TheGarciaRiverCasino.com
Pg 9 Lighthouse Peddler, May 2021
News of the World
by David Steffen
It’s May, 2021, and we seem to have found When it comes to national and interna- wonder just what others were thinking of this haps—only perhaps—this will mark the be-
ourselves at the beginning of the end of the tional news in print, I continue to find myself film. ginning of the dismantling of one facet of the
Pandemic. Masks are still the order of the browsing and reading the New York Times If you’ve seen “News of the World”, you systemic racism that’s been hanging around
day—at least for the rational majority among and the Washington Post. Reading the Times may have concluded (and as some fans of this land for 400 years.
us, and about one-half of the American popu- is a habit I picked up while working in New westerns might agree) it is no “Tombstone” Edward Jenner might be pleased and also
lation has received at least one dose of a vac- York and I’ve maintained my subscription or “Silverado” or “The Man Who Shot Liber- surprised. As of the end of April, more than
cine. Almost one-third are fully vaccinated. over the years. I’ll admit that after 170 years ty Valence”. But it does leave you feeling like 145 million people in this country have been
(California’s numbers mirror the national of publication, “The Old Gray Lady” is not your $20 was well spent. The premise is this: vaccinated. Jenner (1749-1823) pioneered
numbers.) the paper it used to be. But I persist. My other Hanks portrays Captain Jefferson Kidd, an of- the concept of vaccines, the first of which be-
Since we began publishing the Lighthouse daily read, the Post, has improved dramati- ficer from the recently concluded American came a reality in 1796 against smallpox. The
Peddler in 2016, Dolly and I have made the cally over the past decade, and I must assume Civil War. Kidd travels from Texas town to vaccine was a success but about twenty min-
monthly 2-hour drive to Healdsburg Print- that having the financial security of being Texas town, buying newspapers wherever he utes later (or so) the anti-vaxers arrived. Re-
ing to get the Peddler printed. Once there— owned by zillionaire Jeff Bezos helps. In ad- goes. At the next town, he sets up an evening ally. During the following century vaccines
pre-pandemic, we’d review the first copies of dition to the owner’s deep pockets, the Post’s of ‘pay per view’ circa 1870. Selecting stories would be developed to fight cholera, rabies,
the new issue, make last minute corrections, resurgence has almost at random tetanus, typhoid fever and bubonic plague.
kill an hour or two, and have lunch while the been helped dur- from the collec- Obviously, two centuries later the Flat-Earth
printer prepared our order. We would then ing the past five tion of newspa- Society, including those in the the anti-vac-
make the drive home and start delivering the years with cov- pers in his leather cination crowd, is still with us, which just
new Peddler to locations from Jenner to Elk. erage of 2015’s satchel, he reads proves what comedian Ron White has been
A year ago we found that due to COVID, crazy presidential all or parts of telling us for years: “you can’t fix stupid”. Not
Healdsburg (like towns everywhere) had primary cam- those stories that convinced? Read on.
become a relatively quiet place, as the local paign, an election he believes that Remember April 23, 2020? That was the
population opted to stay indoors and fewer in 2016 (the out- particular town day that the then-president (the one with or-
casual travelers were on the road. Neverthe- come of which will be interested ange hair) suggested that ingesting bleach or
less we continued our monthly drives to the was reportedly in hearing. Mem- inserting a UV light into our bodies will cure
printer, load the papers into the car, get a bag helped by a for- bers of the audi- COVID. Predictably, someone heard that as
of fast-food and head home. Near the end of mer KGB guy ence, in the un- a call to action. I was raised a Lutheran in
the year, some restaurants with socially-dis- in Moscow,) an pretentious glow Wisconsin, and have worshipped in churches
tanced outdoor seating began to lure us back orange-haired blowhard who managed to tell of lantern light, pay him a dime a head for the of varying denominations from California to
in for lunch, albeit all masked up, sitting at a a well-documented 30,000 lies while presi- evening. England, but until this week I hadn’t heard of
table on a front sidewalk, or a back patio, or dent, the 2020 campaign, and the campaign's In his December 2020 review, the Washing- the Genesis II Church of Health and Healing.
a secluded deck to enjoy a little lunch almost aftermath (including the January 6 riot at the ton Post’s Michael O’Sullivan wrote that the According to Huff Post, the founder of the
like we did “in the pre-Covid days”. capitol by Trump Supporters. In short, the film, set in Texas during reconstruction, pres- Church is a former scientologist named Jim
Post has had plenty of material to fill its pages. ents a Confederate veteran who “makes his Humble who “claims to be a billion-year-old
While spending more time indoors, one meager living reading a curated selection of god from the Andromeda Galaxy . . . .”
of the things we’ve done (perhaps to excess) newspaper articles aloud to audiences . . . this Last week a man named Mark Grenon
is watch TV. During those budget-conscious, broad-minded, bighearted western tale takes of the Genesis II Church in Florida, was ar-
mostly shut-in days, we scoured the various place in a frontier (emblematic of a whole rested along with his three sons for selling
channels available to us, sifting through fic- country, really) that is undergoing awkward “Miracle Mineral Solution” (MMS), a home-
tion, non-fiction, fantasy, comedy, drama, and sometimes violent growing pains.” In es- made blend of ingredients which could cure
documentaries and more. Some were great, sence, Kidd is Google or Facebook, but with- everything from COVID to cancer. It appears
some were average, and some, as my mother out the “friending” thing. No cellphone app that MMS is, essentially, bleach. The Wash-
might have told me, “are just crap”. But good, needed. Just sit down and listen to Kidd. ington Post added “. . . the FDA has ‘received
bad or in between, TV did its part, and our Thinking about “News of the World” I de- reports of people requiring hospitalizations,
attention was temporarily diverted from the cided to take a look at just that: the news of developing life-threatening conditions, and
Pandemic. For example, we watched the new the world. Our world. During the last week dying after drinking MMS.’” (No word yet on
version of "All Creatures Great & Small" from of April 2021, here are some stories that a whether the Grenon family will be offering
public television and rediscovered dramas modern-day Kidd might have covered. UV lights, ready for insertion).
like “NCIS” or “The Mentalist”. Beyond “en- Walter Mondale died at 93. He will be The news of the world is worth reading in
tertainment”, however one defines it, reading remembered for being that rare entity in newspaper form, hearing on the radio, watch-
newspapers and catching some television politics. Honest, diligent and fair. He also ing on television, or consuming via your
news has also been informative and, frankly, suffered what is probably the single largest computer or iPhone app. Or perhaps there’s
entertaining. landslide loss (to Ronald Reagan in 1984) in another Captain Jefferson Kidd out there
One evening we found ourselves ready any presidential election in 230 years. who will read it to you for a dime. However
to spend the ‘big bucks’ for a first run film. NASA shipped a small (4 pound) helicop- the news arrives, we know that we live—as
I found one pay-per-view title, a film whose ter to Mars. When I saw the film clip of the 30 an apocryphal old curse attempted to warn
synopsis suggested it might be worth the $20 second flight over the Martian surface I half- us—in interesting times. Radio host Randi
ticket price: “News of the World” from direc- expected to see an Amazon logo on the side Rhodes likes to say, "Information is Power.
tor Paul Greengrass, starring Tom Hanks. of the helicopter. So get some!" And please, stay safe!
The premise is so old-fashioned, one won- Back on Earth, a jury found Officer Derek
ders how the book got published or the film Chauvin guilty on all counts in the death of Original TV News Image (withut on-
even got made. And yet, it turns out the story George Floyd. For the most part, the coun- screen text) was created by
everesd_design from Pixabay
and the movie were worth it. It also made me try let go a collective sigh of relief. And per-
Pg 10 Lighthouse Peddler, May 2021"Humankind: A Hopeful History" The May Reading List
A Book by Rutger Bregman • Reviewed by Jennifer Bort Yacovissi Best Sellers and Best Bets
It’s hard to imagine a more appropriate misguided superiority complex. In fact, Mandela convinced Constand “A reader lives a thousand lives
time for Rutger Bregman’s Humankind: Case in point: On first landing in the Viljoen, national war hero and powerful before he dies, said Jojen. The man
A Hopeful History to be released, here in Bahamas and realizing how peaceful and general leading the Afrikaners’ preparations who never reads lives only one.”
the middle of what seems like an inflection welcoming the population was, Christopher for war, to meet with him alone at his
George R. R. Martin, (1948-)
point in American history, the long-overdue Columbus observed, “They would make residence. That one meeting, at which
reckoning with this nation’s fine servants…With fifty men Mandela greeted Viljoen at the door and • The Hill We Climb. An Inaugural Poem...
endemic and systemic racism. we could subjugate them all served him tea, developed into four months by Amanda Gorman
As we watch or participate in and make them do whatever we of secret talks in which the two men grew • Dusk Night Dawn: On Revival & Courage
the protests across the country want.” A year later, he returned to respect and admire each other. Together, by Anne Lamott
• Mushrooms of the Redwood Coast
— indeed, around the globe — to enact his plan, thereby they determined a way to prevent the war.
by Noah Siegel, Christian Schwartz
and consider both the violence inaugurating the Atlantic slave One of the consistent findings that • Gratitude
that precipitated them and the trade. Bregman points to is that, though by Oliver Sacks
sometimes brutal government- Another section of civilization has bred into us a suspicion • You Will Leave a Trail of Stars
sanctioned reaction to them, Humankind is dedicated to of people outside of our own group, our by Lisa Congdon
Bregman’s thesis may seem hard deconstructing the bad science prejudices tend to fall away once we come • Klara and the Sun
to swallow: that humankind is and lazy reportage that has to know those “others”: by Kazuo Ishiguro
made up of humans who are either initially driven or later • City Mouse, Country Mouse
inherently kind. misrepresented — or both — “Contact engenders more trust, more by Maggie Rudy
Bregman, the young Dutch historian and every sociological case study that we ever solidarity, and more mutual kindness. It • Nomadland: Surviving America in 21st
by Jessica Bruder
thinker who previously brought us Utopia read about in school. Virtually all of those helps you see the world through other
• Code Breaker
for Realists, methodically builds his case in studies and experiments have been used people’s eyes.” by Walter Isaacson
this overview of human history to illustrate in service of proving the “veneer” theory, • The Glass Hotel
where things started going sideways, and which says that civilization is but a thin He also notes that, “It’s when a crisis hits… by Emily St. John Mandel
to interrogate the ways we can change our coating that cracks apart under the lightest that we humans become our best selves.” • Gratitude
attitudes in order to change our outcomes. pressure, revealing our brute selves. In the U.S., as this national moment grows by Oliver Sacks
In the ageless argument represented The bad science prevails because we are into a national movement, perhaps this is • I Would Tuck You In
by Thomas Hobbes (that natural man is all cynically quick to believe the worst in when we work together to do just that. by Sarah Asper-Smith
a brute who demands the firm hand of humanity, and our tendency is to glom onto • The Dutch House
civilization) and Jean-Jacques Rousseau and repeat endlessly every scrap of evidence Jennifer Bort Yacovissi grew up in Bethesda, MD, just by Ann Patchett
• Zen Shorts
a bit farther up the hill from Washington, DC, where
(that it is civilization itself that has ruined to support our innate brutality. We dismiss
her debut novel, Up the Hill to Home, takes place. by Jon J. Muth
humanity), Bregman unsurprisingly lands the body of evidence demonstrating that • Leadership: In Turbulent Times
on the side of Rousseau. our natural tendency is to allow our better The novel is a fictionalized account of her mother's
family in DC from the Civil War to the Great by Doris Kearns Goodwin
The author points out that though selves to win out. • Wild Sweetness: Recipes Inspired by Nature
archaeology has turned up examples of Bregman holds up a different mirror, Depression. In addition to writing and reading histor-
by Thalia Ho
large cooperative endeavors in pre-agrarian arguing that when we expect better, we ical and contemporary literary fiction, Jenny reviews
societies, such as Turkey’s 11,000-year-old very often get better. No example is more for both the Independent and the Historical Novel Another Book You Might Like*
Göbekli Tepe temple, it has not turned up striking than that of maximum-security Society. She owns a small project-management and
*. Humankind: A Hopeful History
equivalent evidence of warfare or slaughter. Halden prison, located in a forest north engineering consulting firm, and enjoys gardening A Book by Rutger Bregman
The premise of Bregman’s book is that of Oslo, Norway, and pre-release prison and being on the water. Jenny lives with her husband, (See review on this page)
evolving into big-brained homo sapiens Bastøy, located on an island just up from Jim, in Crownsville, MD.
demanded extensive cooperation, so we’re Halden. The Lighthouse Peddler is pleased to bring our
Visit Discovery Gallery in May. readers a list of the best-selling books being
hard-wired to be social, work in groups, and The guards there don’t carry weapons,
consider what’s best for the collective. He but they do eat meals with the inmates. Just in Time for Mothers Day picked up and read by locals and visitors alike.
suggests our innate eagerness to please and Inmates don’t live in cells, but they do grow May is the month of the Maypole and Our thanks to Four-Eyed Frog Books,
to be liked — and, crucially, our ability to their own food, maintain the buildings and Mothers' Day, flowers and showers, and a Community-owned Bookstore
feel shame — makes us more like “homo grounds, and pursue hobbies. Recidivism spring redecorating. It is also a lovely time
in Cypress Village, Gualala.
puppy.” is 50 percent lower than at traditional at the North Coast. Enjoy the beautiful
Bregman realizes that lots of people facilities, and costs are significantly lower. days here and visit our many charming gal-
disagree with his central argument. “So The objective is to prepare inmates to return leries. Be sure the Discovery Gallery is on
what is this radical idea? That most people, to normal daily life with the skills they need your visiting list. Whether you are looking
deep down, are pretty decent.” It took so they never come back. for the perfect gift for the Moms in your life,
civilization — specifically, the concept of In the book’s closing section, “The Other a great piece of pottery or sculpture for your
private ownership, which, in turn, required Cheek,” Bregman describes in detail how garden, a new piece of art for your wall or
defense of property — to begin to decay Nelson Mandela averted what appeared coffee table, or a unique card, you're likely
that built-in urge toward cooperation. to be inevitable civil war in South Africa. to find just the item at the gallery. It's also
The initial section of the book is dedicated As the first election approached in which a safe and friendly place to visit if you sim-
to deconstructing the bad science and lazy the majority-Black population would be ply want to gladden your heart by looking at
reportage that has misrepresented primitive allowed to vote, minority white Afrikaners beautiful things.
societies as being more bloodthirsty and were preparing to fight. They knew that See you soon at the Seacliff Center, just
self-destructive than modern civilized ones. Mandela would be elected president and down from Trinks. Discovery Gallery is
Rather, predictably, the seeds of destruction assumed that Blacks would then exact open Thursday thru Tuesday from 11:00am
of indigenous peoples are sown when revenge for the atrocities of apartheid — to 3:00pm. Walt Rush is at the gallery every
outsiders bring disease and a tragically because, who wouldn’t? Thursday for jewelry repair and sales needs.
Pg 11 Lighthouse Peddler, May 2021You can also read
