June 2009 Archives

Q: Should I worry about my pets getting skin cancer?

A: Dogs, cats and even horses suffer from sunburn, solar dermatitis and skin cancer. Sunscreens are actually recommended by the American Animal Hospital Association for some animals. The sunscreen should be fragrance-free, nonstaining and contain UVA and UVB blockers. Because most human sunscreens can be toxic if ingested by a dog or a cat (and they will try to lick it off) it's best to use a pet-specific product. Doggles, Nutri-vet and Epi-Pet all produce pet-specific sunscreens and can be found online.

--McClatchy Newspapers

Q: I hear the human body needs vitamin D and gets it from unprotected exposure to the sun. Will I get enough if I take so many protective measures?

A: This is a matter of debate in the medical community. Some doctors, including rheumatologist James Dowd, author of the "The Vitamin D Cure," advise at least some unprotected exposure to the sun. The known benefits of vitamin D -- which can be blocked by SPFs rated 8 or higher -- include helping calcium build strong bones, and researchers have looked in the vitamin's role in staving off colon cancer, multiple sclerosis, diabetes and heart disease.
Dermatologists like Keri say the risks of damage from unprotected exposure outweigh the potential benefits, and that vitamin D can be obtained in foods and supplements. Good sources include salmon, mackerel, sardines, fortified milk or cereals like Kashi or Total.
The National Institutes of Health, pointing out that UV radiation is a carcinogen that accumulates over a lifetime, concludes: "It is not known whether a desirable level of regular sun exposure exists that imposes no (or minimal) risk of skin cancer over time."
There is no definitive answer, so you may want to consult your doctor.

--McClatchy Newspapers

Q: I've heard I should wear sunscreen just walking from my house to my car, from my car to my place of work. Can that be true?

A: Our expert says yes: "I apply it in the morning, at lunch and after work." Men and women can get makeup and skin lotions with an SPF of at least 15, so use those whenever possible. You might want a little extra on your left arm if it's exposed to the sun while you drive.

--McClatchy Newspapers

Q: What about tanning lotions that bronze the skin?

A: They're OK, as long as the active ingredient is dihydroxyacetone (or DHA), which reacts with dead cells on your skin to turn you tan. But the tan you get gives you protection up to only an SPF of 3, so it won't help much against the real sun. Some tanning creams include protective ingredients with SPFs of 15 or higher. But that lasts only about 90 minutes, not the duration of the tan, which is usually about five days.

--McClatchy Newspapers

Q: Can dark-skinned people get sunburns?

A: Dark-skinned people are less susceptible because the melanin that gives their skin its color absorbs UV radiation, Keri says, "but they can still burn."

--McClatchy Newspapers

Q: Does it help to toss on a T-shirt when I come out of the water?

A: Very little, says Keri. A white T-shirt has an SPF of only about 3, she says. But you can buy sun-protective swimwear, coverups, hats, even long-sleeve shirts and pants. The clothing is impregnated with zinc oxide or titanium oxide, the same ingredients in many sunscreens. While sunscreen is measured in SPF (sun protection factor), clothing is rated in UPF (ultraviolet protection factor). Try stores like Target, Kmart and Walmart or Google "sun protective clothing."

--McClatchy Newspapers

Q: Is it safe to go to the beach?
A: "I want my patients to have fun and go to the beach, but they should protect themselves as much as they can," says Keri. Wear sunscreen when you go in the water. When you get out, get under an umbrella.

Q: I can't lie out in the sun with my trashy novel?
"I don't want you to do that," says Keri. "People have in mind that a tan is healthy. It's not. We dermatologists are trying to change the culture -- get people NOT to go out and lie in the sun to get a tan. We know a lot more about ultraviolet radiation than we used to. I think most of my colleagues would agree."

Q: Can I hit the beach at any time of day?
A: Seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the Skin Cancer Foundation says.

Q: Is it safe to lie under a beach umbrella?
A: It helps. But don't forget you still get sunlight reflected off the water, so keep using sunscreen, Keri says.

--McClatchy Newspapers

Q: Can I put sunscreen on my baby?
A: Sunscreen is OK after about 6 months of age, Keri says. Still, keep Snookums out of the sun as much as possible, and re-apply often.
Q: What about younger than 6 months? A: If you must take an infant to the beach, keep him or her in a stroller and use a "baby sun protective cover" with a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating.
--McClatchy Newspapers

Q: When should I apply sunscreen?
A: Apply 30 minutes before getting into the sun so your skin can soak up your sunscreen, and reapply every 90 minutes -- more often if you go in the water, sweat a lot or towel off.
--McClatchy Newspapers

Q: Is SPF the only factor I should consider when choosing sunscreen for my family?
A: No. An SPF rating measures a sunscreen's protection against UVB (ultraviolet B) rays but not against UVA (ultraviolet A) rays, which can also cause wrinkles and skin cancer. For UVA ray protection, check the sunscreen label for the ingredient avobenzone or mexoryl.
--McClatchy Newspapers

Q: What SPF should I use?
A: You need an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Dr. Jonette Keri, a dermatologist at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, recommends an SPF of at least 30 if you're at the beach, pool or tennis court. "Most people don't put on enough," she says. It takes two shot glasses of lotion to cover the average bather, and most people put on only about half that amount. So the higher SPF can help. "The higher the better," she says.
--McClatchy newspapers

The June gloom appears to be gone for the year...let's hope.
So, parents, it's time to step into the sun. Safely. During the day, we'll be posting a Q&A form our friends at McClatchy Newspapers on what's safe (and what's not) in the sun.

McClatchy Newspapers

Q: Will sunscreens protect me and my kids?
A: They can help, the FDA says. But take their label claims with a large grain of salt. The FDA has been trying since 1999 to get sunscreen makers to stop using what it calls "unsupported, absolute and/or misleading and confusing terms such as 'sunblock,' 'waterproof"' and others. Some brands say "waterproof" on their front label even though their back labels say, "Rinse with water to remove." So don't count on "sunblock" to block the sun, and don't count on "waterproof" products to stay on in the water. Be sure to reapply often.

The San Bernardino Valley Amateur Astronomers will have a special guest lecturer, Dr. Mathew Wedel, Saturday, July 18, at their meeting at the San Bernardino County Museum. Wedel will talk about dinosaur extinction from a scientist's point of view.

The 7 p.m. meeting is free and open to the public.

Last spring Dr. Wedel spoke of his research on the History Channel's "Evolve" program and on Animal Planet's "Animal Armageddon."

Wedel earned a Ph.D. in paleontology from UC Berkeley and has worked on the origin of pneumatic bones and the respiratory systems of dinosaurs. In his research he compares the air-filled bones of today's birds to their distant dinosaur relations and uses this data to explain the evolution of the large size and long necks of dinosaurs.

He'll talk about his research on dinosaurs and birds in the field and in the lab, what the world of the dinosaurs was like in the Late Cretaceous period, the effects of the asteroid impact, and the potential for future asteroid impacts on earth.

Where: San Bernardino County Museum, 2024 Orange Tree Lane, Redlands
When: 7 p.m., July 18
Cost: Free
Information: 909-307-2669 ext. 229, www.sbcountymuseum.org

I'm preparing for a family road trip and the top of the dining room table has been eclipsed by the mountain of electronic goods, car snacks, DVDs, CDs, books and more ready for packing. I like to at least START the trip organized, even though I know the car will be a mess at the end.

This isn't my first car trip with kids - that one was a doozey - so I've learned to pack each child their own separate "car packs." What was I thinking that first time with the single "share bag?" I also got fruit and veggies for the cooler - in addition to some less-healthy goodies such as Cheetos and Skittles. Mix it up or beware of the belly aches.

The DVD player, Discman (old school, no iPod yet for the 7-year-old) and Gameboys are all charged with extra batteries. The car has been tuned up and cleaned. (yeah, that won't last).

We're mapped out, almost packed up and ready to roll, but as anyone that's ever taken a road trip with children will tell you - there's bound to be some surprises and hiccups along the way.

For this week's topic, I'd love to hear your travel stories or suggestions. Please share! I'll do the same when I return...

Old Town Temecula Community Theater's newest variety act is lifting spirits and visitors right out of their seats. "Gospel at the Merc," presented by Lillian Crawford, is at the Merc Theater at 2:30 p.m. every Saturday.

Frank Bellino/The Press-Enterprise

Gospel singer Lillian Crawford from Moreno Valley performs at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater Merc Building.

The show debuted June 13 to a packed house in the historic 48-seat theater.

"Praise the Lord and welcome to 'Gospel at the Merc,' " Crawford said, kicking off the show with a warm welcome. "We encourage you to raise your voice, lift up your hands and get up and sing."

Crawford has graced the stage with music greats such as Diana Ross, worked as a Moreno Valley vocal coach for more than 20 years and sings with the group the Mighty Women of Gospel.

Michael Jackson died today at UCLA Medical Center after Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded to a call at his L.A. home. Many of us grew up listening to Jackson songs and I particularly remember the "Thriller" album and video, which scared the heck out of me as a child.

Debbie Wolgemuth, artistic director at the Riverside Youth Theatre was saddened to hear the news of Jackson's passing and recalled his music as soundtrack of parts of her youth.

"I grew up listening to Michael Jackson. The Jackson 5 is what we played in our first dances in Junior High," Wolgemuth said. "I dressed up as a record at a Halloween party a few years later when 'Beat It' was big. He influenced dance and pop as we know it. He really did incredible things."

Share your Jackson memories here.

Written by guest author Dianne Bright:

During times of drought and water crisis in the state of California, now is the best time to teach our kids about conservation. Here are ten practical and cost-effective water saving measures.

First, kids can use the leftover drinking water from bottles or cups to feed indoor or outdoor plants or trees. This might seem ineffectual; however, it will train kids to conserve all sources of water rather than wasting them. You can make this fun by placing a new plant in a neglected flower pot; kids can even paint the pot in radiant summer strokes beforehand. Show kids that gardening is fun while educating them about smart water management.

Dianne Bright
Guest Author

Secondly, discuss a plan of cooking double-portioned meals so that your pans will not have to be washed as frequently. Let your kids help you wash the pots after the meal to see firsthand the amount of water required for the task. Additionally, you can show your kid-smart ways to wash dishes by turning off the water while scrubbing the items with soap and by using environmentally friendly soaps which require less rinsing.

A third creative method for preserving our state's limited water supply is to wash dirty items over the grass so that the water can be recycled. For example, if you've recently returned from a trip to the beach and need to wash your sand toys, place them on the grass while you rinse. You can do this with dirty shoes and sticky coolers as well.

A fourth method of smart water use is evidenced by some after dinner fun, as the kids and your family dog run through the sprinklers together. As many of you know, watering restrictions have been implemented and many residents are only allowed to water on certain days of the week and at certain times of day to maximize the absorption of the water and to limit outdoor use. By letting your kids run through the sprinklers during allotted times, it will show them that it's okay to enjoy water responsibly. Conserving can be fun!

A fifth way to demonstrate our need to save water as a family is to limit the amount of time in the shower. Set a timer for five minutes or less and reward the kids and yourself for staying within that time frame. Also, if you're the type to leave the shower running to heat up while you're fitting in one more quick email, you need to limit its useless downfall to one or two minutes. Use it wisely so that there's enough water for everyone. If your family is able to keep their showers within the limit for the whole week, reward yourselves with a pint of chocolate fudge ice cream on Saturday.

A sixth and sensible option for saving water can be observed as easily as letting your kids wash their hands with sanitizing hand-washing solution or wipes rather than with water. This is something most moms and dads practice while on the go anyways, so now you can implement this at home as well.

A seventh way to save water is by using a colander in the kitchen when washing fruits and vegetables. In the past, I have been tempted to wash each piece under the running water; however, in dire times such as these, we have to make daily changes such as grouping what we wash into one container so that the faucet won't run as long.

An eighth way of preserving our water supply is to wash only clothes, towels, and sheets that are truly dirty. Sometimes out of habit, we throw clothes into the hamper when they aren't even dirty. Some towels used at the pool are perfectly fine for reuse the next day. If a shirt or pair of jeans has a small spot on them, use a wet cloth to clean the small area rather than throwing them into the washing machine, which saves you money on detergent as well. This can also be applied to dishes by reusing the same cup or bowl for the entire day rather than getting a new one for each beverage or dry snack.

A ninth way of saving water can be evidenced by making smart summer choices, like going to a park or public pool where they've already committed to running the water rather than using your own source at home. You should limit your own summer use of the slip and slide or other inflatable water slides; instead you could play with bubbles, water balloons, or water guns. If your mind wraps itself around this form of conservation, you will save more on most days.

The last way to save water is to jump back a bit to sixth grade camp. Remember the adage "If it's yellow, let it mellow"? This might sound really gross, but Flex Your Power's sobering research states that "The United States uses about 5.8 billion gallons of water every day to flush waste". Check out their website at http://www.fypower.org for additional ways to conserve water and to save money. Two additional websites supporting water conservation are http://BeWaterWise.com and http://WaterUseItWisely.com.

Keep your kids excited about helping the environment and they will be well-prepared for a water friendly future. Try to remind your kids that every bit counts while simultaneously keeping your efforts inside of a fun context. Most kids will feel proud of their seemingly small efforts. Their changed mindsets will be the biggest gain of all, as a generation of water conserving children grows into the next generation of environmentally minded adults.

FSA, the Moreno Valley non-profit organization that has been meeting the needs of individuals, families and communities since 1953, hosted its 20th annual Let's Celebrate the Family with a sock hop over the weekend. Check out the video here.

Written by guest author Dianne Bright:

You know those days where you wish you could type "Control Z" and start all over? It would be nice if you could chalk up the failures as typos that the spell-checker would catch. But life isn't like that; unfortunately, our words and actions are not intimately aligned with a mastermind underlining them in red or green for spelling and grammatical accuracy. I wish that some of my mean words and less than perfect actions could be corrected as easily as a right click of the mouse.

As parents, we have to produce our best efforts and then move on. If we've said something to our kids that we'd like to take back, then we need to apologize and accept our humanness. Even though we can't erase the errors or misspellings from the previous day, we can move forward and aim to do better in the subsequent days and weeks.

Dianne Bright
Guest Author

Yesterday was a chaotic downward spiral of parenting failures and defeats. I wasn't void of numerous causes for feeling insane. In fact, many of my impatient and frustrated responses were fully merited, as all three kids had conspired against me. The day had the feel of a prolonged nightmare that just wouldn't end. It made me feel that this summer might be the longest one ever since we're just at the warm up stage of the first lap, here in the third week of June.

Starting in the morning, my middle child didn't get something she wanted and dramatically announced how she wanted to die and then responded by hiding inside of a pillow to punish me. Subsequently, after way too much effort just to get everyone fed and dressed, we were off to return a video and to drive through the car-wash. After three attempts, including two reversal maneuvers out of the car-washing tunnel and five minutes of my toddler's terrified howls, our mossy green mini-van was clean.

Five minutes later, we arrived at the park. Getting some fresh air seemed in order, so we stretched our limbs and sprinted toward the red and blue play-set. Quickly thereafter, two of my kids decided to run through the park's recently turned on sprinkler system while fully clothed, which was less than ideal because I hadn't brought their swimsuits or any towels.

After being soaked in recycled park water, my youngest covered herself in mud from several falls along the way of our grass-covered trail back to the car. As I thought about the possibility of any misplaced dry clothes being in the van, my soaking wet children ran at a cheetah-paced-sprint across the field toward the street while I yelled like a wild hyena trying to get them to stop. Thankfully our oldest caught up to his younger sisters and stopped them just short of the street.

With my luck, there were only extra sweaters and socks in the car, so we decided to head home. The library had to be postponed, as did any remnants of my sanity. Later in the day, the unending saga of chaos continued, as my middle daughter attempted to turn the stove on by herself. Thankfully, I noticed the attempt quickly and avoided carbon monoxide poisoning.

In the early evening, we all ventured out for some more fresh air, where my dog flattened my daughter and subsequently almost got into a fight with an unruly pit-bull. That was really minor though compared to my dog pooping on the only lawn that had its residents out front and the embarrassment of my youngest daughter subsequently playing in the poop while I apologized to the neighbors. When my middle child started peeling bird poop off of a green city post up ahead, I started wondering why I'd thought going on a walk was such a brilliant idea in the first place.

You know those days when you think locking yourselves in for the day would have been preferable? This was one of those days. If only I'd had the vampire Jasper from the Twilight books there to calm me down with his uncanny ability to comfort.

After seemingly endless hours of my kids' whining and bickering, along with a series of disastrous messes, as if a desert sandstorm had attacked my house, we were ready for some dinner. To say the least, I was not about to add to the mountain sized pile of dishes in the sink, so I made an SOS call to Little Caesar's.

The calm before the storm, or does it come after the storm? Either way, I was longing for some peace, though it didn't seem to come until much later in the night. After a two hour attempt to get my wild children to bed, I finally collapsed onto the couch next to my loving husband, where I unloaded the horrors of the day.

"Sometimes you're the lemon and sometimes you're the lemonade. Sometimes you're the bug and sometimes you're the windshield." We've heard these adages before and they occasionally carry a weight of humor to them, but not when you're the lemon making the lemonade or the bug disgracefully decorating the windshield with your own guts.

Yesterday, I was the lemon and the bug. But, today is a new day. We must press on as parents realizing that our best is all that we can give. Parenting can feel like a blind aerospace mission to fly to the unknown discovering new planets and other forms of extra-terrestrial life. Unfortunately, as human parents, we don't get a map or an instruction manual; but, it's a good thing we come internally wired with an excessive amount of love and patience. We just have to take it one day at a time.

Last Jon and Kate Plus 8 entry for a while, I promise. But it seems that the show has been put on hiatus in response to the announcement that the couple will be splitting. The Los Angeles Times reported that the next all-new show won't air until August 3. So far, six of the 40 season episode have aired.

The Times also reported that the decision to take a break was made by the network - not the family. Wow.

There was supposed to be a "big announcement" last night on Jon and Kate Plus 8 but it was pretty much just the couple acknowledging the recent issues they have had.

Kate said, "We can't go back now. We can only go forward. And that's what we're going to do, and we're going to learn a lot going forward. And I know that we'll all come out of this on the other side, hopefully stronger, better, wiser."

Jon stated that he has changed a lot, but feels that he is himself for the first time in a long time. And, that was about it.

Looks like Jon and Kate Gosselin are moving forward with the split. Papers were filed for legal separation in Pennsylvania Monday afternoon.

The news is hardly a surprise to fan's who have followed the couple's TLC show or read the recent coverage of them in the press. The fifth season of the Gosselins' show just premiered May 25 and the couple had been admitting to problems.

TLC has been promoting a major announcement on tonight's show, so we'll see what happens.

Get to know more about the animal symbols of the American West, horses and bison, at the San Bernardino County Museum Sunday, July 12. Curator of Paleontology Eric Scott will host the lecture, "Horses and Bison: Evolving American Icons" at 2 p.m.

"These two classic American animals have thrilled our imaginations and warmed our hearts for generations," Scott said. "Yet we're still learning about their ancient history and their true place in North American ecology."

Scott will talk about how many species of these animals lived in North America during the Ice Ages, how fossils relate to the living animals and what ancient DNA says about these creatures.

The lecture is free with museum admission.

Where: 2024 Orange Tree Lane, Redlands
When: 2 p.m., July 12
Admission: $8 adults, $6 senior, $4 children 5 to 12
Information: 909-307-2669, www.sbcountymuseum.org

Written by guest author Dianne Bright:

I felt relieved earlier today while spreading peanut butter onto a piece of toast. I was freaked out to see that the toaster oven was on fire, but was glad that I'd looked down when I did; the three inch flame that danced the Salsa was manageable. Thankfully, I was able to blow it out with relative ease, avoiding its attack on the rest of my kitchen.

Dianne Bright
Guest Author

A few minutes later, I was summoned by my six-year-old son to fish out the toilet paper holder from the poop-filled toilet in our downstairs bathroom. I'm not sure how he dropped it in the first place, but that's another topic. At least the toilet paper holder didn't get flushed down, which saved me a trip to Lowe's.

By the end of the month, we usually don't sit on an excess of cash, but at least we are able to pay all of our bills. Likewise, we have a generous amount of food decorating our fridge and cupboards, even if we are having eggs and pancakes for dinner towards the end. Additionally, our cars aren't in perfect shape, but I'm grateful that they're both running. The cup is half full because we always have enough to get by.

All in all, our family is blessed with good health as well, aside from some minor conditions such as our son's allergies and asthma. Likewise, my husband is plagued with a bad back and I'm unpleasantly hit with irritable bowel syndrome from time to time. But, primarily, we all check in with a clean bill of health. Things could always be worse.

Seeing the glass half full can be tricky at times. When someone is jobless, he pines for a new one right away, but maybe his glass is half full with a beautiful and loving family. In contrast, for the secure income-earner, it could be a recent divorce that plagues him with feelings of eternal loneliness.

When the glass is half full, it also means it's half empty. But, seeing the fullness of life is what helps you to have a good life. If you spend time worrying principally about what you don't have rather than contemplating your many blessings, you won't feel happy.

Eventually, the fire will get blown out. The treasure in the toilet will get fished out. The monetary needs will be met, even if it means you have to cut back elsewhere or downsize from previous luxuries. Your health might be less than perfect, but it is likely better than a lot of other people's. If you are jobless, you will eventually find something else or start your own business instead. If your singleness is making your glass half empty, you might make someone else's half full by reaching out to them.

If all else fails, put on some good jazz music and pour yourself half of a glass of Merlot or some full-bodied coffee. You can't go wrong with half a glass of either one of those.

Harkins Theatres' 10 week Summer Movie Fun program is back and will last through Friday, August 7. Featuring a different family movie each week for 10 week, the theaters are offering admission prices at $2 per movie or a $5 season pass for all 10.

Movie titles include, "Space Chimps," "Nim's Island," "Horton Hears a Who," "The Spiderwick Chronicles," "Madagascar 2: Escape to Africa," "Kung Fu Panda," "Kit Kittredge," "The Tale of Despereaux," "Hotel for Dogs" and "Igor."

Theaters in the Inland region include Harkins Chino Hills at Hwy. 71 and Chino Ave. and Harkins Moreno Valley at the 60 Fwy and Center Point Dr., inside the Moreno Valley Mall.

For movie times and other information call 800-601-4763 or visit www.harkinstheatres.com.

Special to The Press-Enterprise

Wayne Coyne and the Flaming Lips are coming to Del Mar for a free show.

There are some free summer concerts coming to Del Mar. Check them out. It's free music, plus horse racing. The Airborne Toxic Event, Flaming Lips and ultimate Neil Diamond tribute Super Diamond are on my list of shows to catch. Can't you imagine Wayne Coyne of the Flaming Lips running around the track in his giant bubble? It would be fantastic.

2009 Del Mar Summer Concert Series:
• Fri., July 24 - G. Love & Special Sauce
• Fri., July 31 - The Wailers
• Fri., Aug. 7 - The Airborne Toxic Event
• Fri., Aug. 14 - Common Sense
• Sat., Aug. 15 - Flaming Lips (infield show)
• Fri., Aug. 21 - Pinback
• Sat., Aug. 22 -Steel Pulse (infield show)
• Fri., Aug. 28 - Super Diamond
• Sun., Sept. 6 -Reggae Festival (infield show with special guests TBA)

Vanessa Franko
vfranko@pe.com

I'm looking for couples getting creative with the catering for the big day. If you or someone you know plans to do burgers, pizza or a pot-luck style food gathering for the wedding reception I want to hear about it.

Jennifer Dean
951-368-9336 or jdean@pe.com

Yucaipa Regional Park just opened its swim area this week, including two long, high-speed waterslides. For $10/person you can spend the day swimming, sliding and hanging out along the sandy beach of the man-made lake.

The park's lakes are currently stocked with catfish for fishing, there's RV and tent camping, two playgrounds for the little ones, hiking trails, picnic areas and a snack bar.

"Often we hear from people who grew up in the region, driving by the sign every day, but never actually went inside," said Bert Angeli, park superintendent. "They finally come for a visit when a friend or someone mentions it and they are amazed."

For information on the park's hours and pricing call 909-790-3127. For information on all San Bernardino County Regional parks visit www.county-parks.com

The Robert V. Fullerton Art Museum hosted an opening reception Thursday evening for the 39th Annual Student Exhibition at California State University, San Bernardino. Students submitted about 170 pieces in a wide range of medias to an anonymous juror for selection and about 75 were chosen for the show.

Artwork medias included painting, drawing, sculptures, ceramics, glass, photo, woodworking and furniture design, print making, new genres, video art and graphic design.

"This is the fourth year we've had an outside juror," said Sant Khalsa, Department of Art chair and professor. "It's always someone significant to the art scene.

This entry is on our business blog, but looks pretty pertinent to moms too!

You can get snacks, toys, prepaid phone cards and even movie DVDs from vending machines. So when an infant emergency arises at the mall, why not have machines that serve up baby wipes, bottles, and pacifiers?

That's the idea behind a Corona company's new vending machines, called "Baby Stations." AVT Inc., formerly known as Automated Vending Technologies, announced Thursday it has reached arrangements to place its machines at several Westfield Group malls in California, including Westfield Palm Desert.

A statement from AVT said the project will be launched on July 15.

The machines will let shoppers use a credit or debit card to buy other items such as diapers, rash cream, baby Tylenol, medicine droppers and baby formula. Each Baby Station also has a 7" LCD display, streaming information and video feeds about products being sold.

-- Lou Hirsh
lhirsh@PE.com

By Ken Mushinskie
Head Football Coach
King High School

The third annual Riverside Youth Football Camp is being held Thursday and Friday June 25th and 26th from 9 AM-12 PM at King High School in Riverside. The two-day football clinic offers fundamental football instruction by the King High School varsity football staff, as well as past and present players. The clinic is open to youths ages 7 to 13. Cost is $50, which includes a clinic t-shirt, a barbecue lunch on Friday and afternoon swimming.
For information and registration please contact Coach Ken Mushinskie at coachmush@charter.net or visit kingfootball.org.

Written by guest author Dianne Bright:

Dianne Bright
Guest Author

Cats sleep, sleep, and then sleep some more. If you're a cat-owner, then you know exactly what I mean. My cat Sage gets so relaxed that you'd seriously think he was dead. In fact, one day I did mistake him for dead while he was fast asleeeeeeeeep in my daughter's crib. I was so convinced he was dead that I even started to get teary-eyed. I poked and prodded him hoping he would budge, but he didn't. Eventually, he made a sharp motion that convinced me rigor mortis had kicked in. In actuality, he was just dead asleep.

In addition to my cat's uncanny ability to sleep deeply for twenty three hours per day, my cat also snores like a bulldozer. You'll be alone in the house and hear a noise that makes you think, "My gosh, someone's in the house" and then you realize, "No, it's just the cat snoring up a storm of thunderous Zs."

Special to The Press-Enterprise:
By Francisco Ramos-Gomez, DDS, MS, MPH.
Professor, Section of Pediatric Dentistry,
UCLA School of Dentistry

It's not unusual to see children from as young as 18 months old with cavities. Troubling, yes. Uncommon, hardly. Cavities continue to be a huge problem among kids. In fact, tooth decay is more common than asthma or hay fever. When left untreated, dental problems like tooth decay can lead to difficulty speaking and chewing and ultimately, time away from the classroom. Chronic tooth decay can lead to more serious health issues as children grow to adolescence and through to adulthood.

The main culprits of cavities are sugary and processed snack foods. And a lack of proper oral hygiene, like not brushing and flossing at least twice a day. Still, toothbrushes and toothpastes alone aren't enough.

Students graduating from three- and two-year programs at The Art Institute of California - Inland Empire showed off their hard work Tuesday night at the Riverside Art Museum.

Terry Pierson/The Press-Enterprise

Graduate Taber Dunipace, 25 of Alta Loma with his "Will Animate 4 $$$" sign at the Art Institute's Graduate Portfolio Show.

The Graduate Portfolio Show included works from 25 students in the school's Culinary, Graphic Design, Web Design and Interactive Media and Media Arts and Animation programs.

The show took place from 4-9 p.m. and the first couple hours were dedicated to networking. After that, it was all for proud friends and family members.

The elephants are taking over the San Diego Zoo, or at least 7.5 acres of it. And, they are bringing friends.

The Associated Press

Ranchipur, a male Asian elephant, is seen at the new 2.5 acre Elephant Odyssey exhibit.

The Harry and Gace Steele Elephant Odyssey - the Zoo's largest exhibit undertaking to date - was unveiled last month and will be home to more than 35 species of animals.

The new $45-million animal habitat includes a 137,000-gallon pool, rolling hills, hidden drinkers and feeders and the half-acre Conrad Prebys Elephant Care Center.

Campers can belly up around the fire with ocean friends at a different kind of camp this summer. OK, the dolphins and Shamu won't be joining the kids roasting marshmallows, but summer camp season at SeaWorld is underway with the first session having begun June 14.

SeaWorld

A newborn Atlantic bottlenose dolphin calf swims alongside her mother at SeaWorld San Diego.

During the weeks of June 14-22, 4th-12th graders interested in Resident Camp sessions can spend a week at the park participating in activities such as preparing fish for animals, feeding dolphins and kayaking on Mission Bay.

Preschoolers through 12th graders can also sign up for the weeklong Day Camp sessions between June 22-Aug. 21 for days of up close and personal animal time, snorkeling and hands-on learning activities.

For more information visit www.swbg-adventurecamps.com.

On CBS' "Late Show" Monday night, host David Letterman admitted that his joke about one of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin's daughter's being "knocked up" by Alex Rodriguez can't be defended.

He again said the joke was meant to refer to the 18-year-old Bristol Palin, not her 14-year-old sister Willow, and that he wasn't responsible for the fact that people believed he really intended to target Bristol.

But he did say the magic words "I'm sorry" and Palin officially accepted them today. In a released statement she said the apology was accepted "on behalf of all young women, like my daughters, who hope men who 'joke' about public displays of sexual exploitation of girls will soon evolve."

Previous: Letterman vs. Palin

Written by guest author Dianne Bright:

Dianne Bright
Guest Author

Sometimes it feels that your life has gone missing, like you're one of those puppies on the mailboxes shouting out "Reward, $150". You know your life is moving forward on the track, but you question whether or not you're even aboard the train. The mortgage is slowly getting paid; the cars are mostly all running fine and most of your basic needs and wants are being met. You care for everyone else around you and somewhere in the midst of it all, you've gotten lost. If only there was a reward poster somewhere so you could be found.

By Vanessa Franko
The Press-Enterprise

Nothing says a new rockin' show like, um, "Creature from the Black Lagoon"? That's Universal Studios Hollywood's new attraction, a 25-minute all-original score and song and dance send up to the cult film in "Creature from the Black Lagoon--A Raging Rockin' Show." According to the press release, one of the characters is listed as a cook, "who creates his own recipes for disaster." The show features surround sound in an Amazon set.

SoCal residents also get a deal with the new six months for $60 pass. The new pass is available for purchase through Sept. 27 and gives passholders unlimited admission for six months after first use.

By Vanessa Franko
The Press-Enterprise

Special to The Press-Enterprise

Knott's Berry Farm's summer show "All Wheels Extreme" features BMX bikers, skateboarders and acrobats.

As the weather heats up, Knott's is getting cool, Joe Cool, with the new ice show, "Everyone Loves Snoopy." It opens Saturday and runs every day except Wednesdays.

And of the "Peanuts" gang, since Lucy is the bossiest, it makes sense that she has her own show, "Lucy's Really Big Show," running for the little kids at the Camp Snoopy Theatre. It's unknown whether or not she takes the football away from audience members.

Kaiser Permanente's Operation Splash officially kicked off the summer season today with, well, a big splash at the Sippy Woodhead Pool at Bobby Bonds Park in Riverside.

Rodrigo Pena/The Press-Enterprise

Jocelyn Figueroa, right, is having the time of her life with her sister Samantha Figueroa, left, 5, and friend Geovanni Valencio at the Sippy Woodhead Pool in Riverside.

The program, funded by Kaiser Permanente, supports aquatic facilities and swim programs in low-income areas, including communities in Los Angeles, Fontana, Riverside, Chula Vista, Ventura, Coachella Valley and Kern County.

"We were very successful with this program last year and are hoping for even more success this year," said Councilman Andy Melendez. "Summer safety is extremely important."

National Geographic's Dan Buettner has been all over the world studying longevity.

In his book, "The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer From the People Who've Lived the Longest" (National Geographic, 2008) he and his crew traveled to "longevity hot spots" to study how the residents lived.

Loma Linda is one of four places Buettner highlights in the book, citing the vegetarian eating habits and community and social support as some of the reasons the residents are living longer.

Now, in a project sponsored by AARP, Buettner and his colleagues are taking the information they gathered to the Midwestern town of Albert Lea, Minn. to put these longevity theories to the test.

The Riverside Metropolitan Museum's Heritage House will host the 16th Annual Ice Cream Social Sunday, June 28, from 12-4 p.m. The free community event will feature ice cream - of course - and homemade lemonade, along with musical entertainment.

Guests can play authentic Victorian games, watch a blacksmith in action, learn how old-fashioned hand cranked ice cream is made, operate a citrus sizer and watch a patriotic program by the Sons of the American Revolution. The program will include musket firing, cotillion dance and a parade.

Here are the performance times:

Inside
12 p.m. - Bob Palmer, mountain dulcimer
1 p.m. - Norm Zix, piano
2 p.m. - Avery Atchson and Star Robertson, vocalists
2:30 p.m. - Victoria Banda, Geo & Jed Bautista, Naomi Bupte, piano
3 p.m. - Brad Stephens, vocalist

Back yard/Gazebo
12 p.m. - Patricia Morris, autoharp
1 p.m. - Bob Palmer, banjo and autoharp
2 p.m. - Bob Cotton, children's band
2:30 p.m. - Daughters of the American Revolution

Side/front of house
1 p.m. - Sons of the American Revolution George and Martha Washington Cotillion Dancers
2 p.m. - Funtones Barbershop Quartet

Where: 8193 Magnolia Ave., Riverside
When: 12-4 p.m., June 28
Cost: Free
Information: 951-826-5124, www.riversideca.gov.museum

Riverside has a new prime-time star ready to make her television debut. Poly High School graduate Lauren Potter will co-star in a one-hour episode, "Wheels," in Fox TV's new series "Glee," premiering this fall.

Charlotte Bray/The Press-Enterprise

Lauren Potter, 19, from Riverside, shows the script from Fox's new series "Glee."

Lauren has Down syndrome and is a member of The Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles, a nonprofit agency that offers programs, resources, education, counseling and more.

The association has an in-house talent agency, Hearts and Hands, which casting directors can contact when searching for an actor with Down syndrome. Lauren was contacted when the part came up.

"She and 13 others from various agencies auditioned for the part," said Robin Sinkhorn, Lauren's mother. "She then got the call-back, then got the role."

So the David Letterman/Sarah Palin feud is still going strong.

On Letterman's show Tuesday night, he dropped these lines about the Palins' visit to New York and Yankee Stadium: "There was one awkward moment during the seventh-inning stretch; her daughter was knocked up by [Yankee player] Alex Rodriguez" and "The hardest part of her trip was keeping [former New York Gov.] Eliot Spitzer away from her daughter."

Palin responded furiously saying the joke was "inappropriate" and "sexually perverted."

The Lake Elsinore Outlets Kids' Outlet offers family activities every Friday from 10:30-11:30 a.m. and every other Wednesday from 11 a.m.-noon. Here's the upcoming July schedule:

Friday, July 3: PATRIOTIC FUN - Capture summer memories in a fun photo frame, which kids can decorate.

Wednesday, July 8: STORY TIME - Story time and coloring with the Lake Elsinore Library.

Friday, July 10: ANTHONY'S BATHTUB ADVENTURE - Flutterby Entertainment presents a puppet show.

Friday, July 17: PINWHEEL PARTY - Kids design and create a colorful pinwheel.

Wednesday, July 22: STORY TIME - Story time and coloring with the Lake Elsinore Library.

Friday, July 24: MAGIC SHOW - Children are delighted by Anthony's mystical magic show. Each kid will receive a free magic wand (while supplies last).

Friday, July 31: PENCIL CRITTERS- Color different shapes and make a critter to sit atop a pencil.

WHERE: Lake Elsinore Outlets
Suite 106 near Bath & Body Works Outlet
Info: www.lakeelsinoreoutlets.com

Share your ideas for cheap family fun here.

For more cheap fun ideas go here.

Written by guest author Dianne Bright:

Dianne Bright
Guest Author

It's time to say "Cheese" and show off those pearly whites. It's not for a photo shoot or for a special family occasion. The admonition is simply to show someone a friendly smile and your beautiful eyes because it means you're alive. It also signifies that you care, even about the strangers you co-exist with. It's astonishing how few people show their smiles or any other kind of facial expression while interacting with passersby. Rather than a welcoming impression of friendliness, people express a sullen monk's facials or the look of a fearful lamb about to be devoured.

Written by guest author Dianne Bright:

Dianne Bright
Guest Author

We take so many simple blessings for granted by focusing on what we do not have or on the struggles that entangle us. Instead, we should spend our energy on the strengths we possess or on the joys that fill our days. Many people take their faithful spouse or their healthy children for granted because they're around them every day. Likewise, it is easy to grow indifferent about our basic provisions, such as a shelter over our heads or three filling meals per day.

In addition to the aforementioned blessings, I am incredibly grateful for my five senses. These may be the most thankless amenities of all, as most of us have enjoyed them for our entire lives. But imagine if you didn't have them and how different your life would be. I cherish the smell of my children as I kiss their heads after a hot bath, or the smell of garden fresh roses or basil leaves. I couldn't imagine trading in my ability to smell my favorite scented perfumes and lotions or the peaceful ocean breeze.

Riverside's "Downtown Street Jam" is back again this Saturday, June 13, from 2-9 p.m. The lineup includes Blue Dice at 2 p.m., then reggae band Urban Fyre at 3:30 p.m.

Saxaphonist Mark Allen Felton will go on at 5 p.m., then The Jazz Junkies go at 6:30 and headlining at 8 p.m. is The Brett Miller Blues Band.

Contestants from Riverside Sings Vocal Competition (hosted by City of Riverside Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department) will perform.

For more information visit www.myspace.com/downtownstreetjamor www.riversidedowntown.org.

Weekly Topic: "Theme Parks Get Ready For Action"

The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center in San Diego has a new exhibition opening June 30.

"Motion Mania: Move Your Mind" features more than 30 hands-on attractions that make astronomy, physics and other sciences fun.

Special to The Press-Enterprise

The "Clouds Rings" exhibit that is part of "Motion Mania" uses friction to generate a vortex out of a ring of vapor.

Highlights include "Cloud Rings" (above), described in a press release as "a mist generator and a large rubber membrane with a hole in the middle" that launches a ring of vapor toward the ceiling.

The "Rope Squirter" is a dancing rope that defies visitors to capture it.

"Talking in Circles" is a large goblet that creates an optical illusion.

The science center is at 1875 El Prado in Balboa Park. Admission is $10 for adults, $8.75 for children. Packages that include IMAX films are extra. 619-1233, www.rhfleet.org

--Fielding Buck
fbuck@PE.com

Corona native Billy Marks is among the five professional skateboard and BMX athletes who mentor young action sports up and comers in "Next X," a new TV series that premiered Monday on Disney XD, Disney XD.com and Disney XD mobile platforms.

Disney XD

Kentucky resident Micah Wu, 11, was partnered with Corona resident Billy Marks in the new Disney XD series "Next X."

Disney XD partnered with ESPN to bring some of the world's top "X" athletes to the training facility, Camp Woodward West in San Bernardino to film the eight episode that will air Mondays at 7 p.m. ET/PT.

At the end of the series the next "X"ahtlete will be chosen from among the participants and the show will culminate in August with a 30-minute TV and online special at ESPN's X Games 15.

Marks partnered with 11-year-old Micah Wu, an amateur skateboarder from Kentucky who recently competed in the King of the Groms contest in Minneapolis.

"I was really excited to hear I'd be working with Billy," Wu said in a phone interview. "They were all pros and really good, so I would have been happy with any of them."

If you hear the "Jaws" theme song whenever you get close to the ocean, Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography/UC San Diego might not be the place for you the week of July 18-24. That's right, it's Shark Week.

But if you want to get up close and personal to these toothy friends, Shark Week will feature a series of hands-on exploration for all ages into the world of these often misunderstood ocean predators.

Scripps oceanography scientists will talk about research discoveries and conservation efforts begin made to sustain the declining shark population.

Here's a list of some of the week's activities:

• Live shark encounters with hourly presentations


• Dive shows in the two-story kelp forest tank




• Saturday, July 18 at 2 p.m.


• Sunday, July 19 at 10:30 a.m.


• Tuesday, July 21 at 12:30 p.m.


• Thursday, July 23 at 12:30 p.m.




• More than 10 species of sharks and their relatives on display


• Shark scavenger hunts


• "Great White" photo booth

Where: 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla
Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily
Admission: $11 adults; $9 seniors; $7.50 youth 3-17; free, children 2 and under
Contact: 858-534-3474, http://aquarium.ucsd.edu

The traveling exhibit, "Smokey Bear and Woodsy Owl: Home Sweet Home" will make its west coast premiere at the Taco Bell Discovery Science Center June 20-October 4.

Developed in part by the U.S. Forest Service, the exhibition's activities are geared toward children ages 2 to 8 and will highlight recycling, conserving water, composting and the "leaving no trace" principle.

This will be the first stop on a four-year, 10-city tour of the 1,500 square foot green-built exhibit.

Smokey Bear and Woodsy Owl will guide visitors through urban, woodland and stream settings that will feature educational activities in both English and Spanish. Props, costumes and puppets will teach about protecting ecosystems and highlate ways to reduce, reuse and recycle resources.

Where: 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana
Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily
Information: 714-542-2823, www.discoverycube.org

Guest blogger Karen Bergh spotlights local personality:

Karen Bergh

Special to The Press-Enterprise
By Karen Bergh

It's a long way from Boston, but the Ontario International Airport in Ontario, California, has its own version of the Cheers neighborhood bar where everyone knows your name. The centerpiece of this watering hole, however, is not a "Sam" but a spry silver-haired gentleman named "Doyle."

Corona resident Jaide Lumati, 11, was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia at birth. At age 3 she had a stroke and now receives blood transfusions every three to four weeks in an effort to prevent a second stroke and additional complications.

Now a fifth grader, Lumati is very active, despite the medical complications she has endured. She enjoys cheerleading, swimming, listening to music and dancing.

On June 13 she'll be honored for her positive attitude and inspirational courage at the Miller Children's Hospital/Jonathan Jacques Children's Caner Center 24th Annual Torch Run.

Children's TV show and movie celebrities will join more than 250 children like Lumati who have sickle cell disease, cancer and other serious blood disorders. They'll run, walk, wheel or be carried in a relay, passing an Olympic-style torch to raise funds for the JJCCC at Miller's Hospital in Long Beach.

All children who participate in the relay are given a medal. Loved ones and sponsors walk with the children along the 1/8 mile course.

When: Saturday, June 13
Where: Rainbow Harbor Esplanade on Shoreline Drive next to the Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach
Information and donations: 562-933-8600, www.jjccc.com/torchrun_frset.html

First 5 San Bernardino is teaming up with Project Life Impact, Living Springs Outreach Ministries, Westside Brighter Vision, San Bernardino County Schools and Foothill Family Shelter to help families hit hard by the economic downturn.

Call First 5 at 909-386-7706 for information or contact the agencies listed below for details on when, where and how:

Project Life Impact
Where: 468 W. Fifth Street, #212, San Bernardino
What: Emergency food, vouchers for Payless Shoes
Contact: 909-388-1700
Stipulations: Kids must attend E. Roberts School Elementary, Highland Pacific Elementary, Lankershim Elem., or kids that attend San Bernardino High School that have babies

Living Springs Outreach Ministries
Where: 2260 N. Arrowhead Avenue, San Bernardino
What: Emergency food, bus passes, motel vouchers, emergency baby essentials (formula, diapers, baby food)
Contact: 909-806-5950

Westside Brighter Vision
Where: 411 W. 16th Street, San Bernardino
What: Emergency food, emergency baby essentials
Contact: 909-383-9474

San Bernardino County Schools
Where: 601 N. "E" Street, San Bernardino
What: Emergency food, bus passes, emergency clothing vouchers, emergency baby essentials
Contact: 909-386-2634

Foothill Family Shelter
Where: 1501 W. 9th Street #D, Upland
What: Emergency Food, bus passes, emergency clothing voucher, emergency baby essentials (formula, diapers, baby food)
Contact: 909-920-5568

Written by guest author Dianne Bright:

Dianne Bright
Guest Author

Our most special moments should be savored and remembered. One way to do this is to keep a token from that treasured memory with you. You can take a physical memento, a digital picture, or a meditated impression upon your heart. It's valuable to recount the spectacular moments of our lives because they remind us that life is great, even when we occasionally travel through a season of darkness or despair. As Dennis Prager wisely opines during his "Happiness Hour" every Friday on 590 KTIE, happiness is a personal and individual choice that makes humanity better. One particular way to feel happier is to focus on joyful memories.

Written by guest author Dianne Bright:

Dianne Bright
Guest Author

Musical instruction is an integral part of parenting. You might assume that music is mainly transferred to our kids in a formal setting, such as during violin or guitar lessons. However, our kids pick up a vast number of vocal and instrumental influences throughout the day just by listening to the radio or the television. In addition to those effortless mediums, here are four other ways of getting your kids excited about music.

Lake Arrowhead's 25th Annual Antique and Classic Wooden Boat Show will kick off the summer season of activities tomorrow, June 6, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. This year's show will feature almost 40 wooden boats, moored dockside at the Lake Arrowhead Village.

The collection will represent classic boat manufacturers of days gone by such as Chris Craft, Century, Gar Wood, Thompson and others. The price for the boat viewing is $5 per person.

Classic "woodie" cars will also be on display in the Village, as well as displays by the Antique Outboard Motor Club, the Inland Nautical Society and the Rim of the World Historical Society.

For more info, call the Chamber of Commerce at 909-337-3715 or visit www.lakearrowhead.net.

The Art Institute of California Inland Empire will host its first Fashion Empire fashion show, titled MOOD INDIGO! Saturday, June 6, from 5-9 p.m. at the Victoria Gardens Cultural Center.

The evening will feature Cirque du Soleil-style entertainment, a beauty bar where guests can sample products and get beauty advice from sponsor Jade Aveda, music by DJ Pelau and DJ Nicky Savage and the runway show, which has a denim theme.

"The festivities lead up to a runway fashion show featuring professional models wearing fashions created by students of The Art Institute of California - Inland Empire Fashion Design program," said Sherry West, academic director for fashion. "The show will also feature selected fashions from Miss Me Jeans and Bebe' Fashions."

Quyenzi Pham, CEO of Q. Zi Productions, Inc. is producing the show.

"We just launched our fashion degree programs - fashion design and fashion retail merchandising - a little less than a year ago," said John Berry, director of public relations at the institute. "One of the reasons for this show is to get the word out that we have these degree programs."

For more information on the show visit www.fashionempire2009.com.

I've been thinking lately about all the things moms do in an average day and sometimes, it's really kind of amazing we stay sane. And yes Dads, you wear a lot of hats too! I wonder if everyone's days are like this?

Here's an average day:

Written by guest author Trudie Mitschang:

Trudie Mitschang

Guest Author

I spent much of young life competing with other women. Competing for boys and later for men. Vying for attention from professors and bosses. Angling for position, especially in those dangerous Bermuda Triangles otherwise known as three-way female friendships. You know the drill: two little girls can be the best of friends but add a third to the mix and somebody's going to get her feelings hurt. I'm sure that's why Carrie had Charlotte, Miranda and Samantha in her posse; the odds of the whole group turning on her diminished significantly with a fourth wheel.

Written by guest author Dianne Bright:

Dianne Bright
Guest Author

Life is not simply a "To Do" list, and yet there are a plethora of daily projects to accomplish. Even our family conversations revolve around the tasks which must be completed. Whether we are dealing with our spouse or with our kids, it seems that all we talk about is the next day's schedule or the events of the upcoming weekend. Was it dinner with the Clarks or lunch with the Johnsons? Did we commit to making brownies for the soccer party or was it cookies for the swim meet? In an ideal world, I'd say we could suspend this cycle of madness. But, we don't live in a utopia, do we?

WBZB Entertainment, producers of Inland Idol 2009, will launch a series of 6-week performing arts workshops for kids ages 7-18 called ARTS FUSION beginning June 20.

The first sessions will take place on Saturdays in Corona at Prima Dance Studios from 9 a.m.-noon and in Moreno Valley at Dance Images from 2-5 p.m. The workshops will include topics such as interactive acting, voice and dance clases and will culminate in a musical variety show for friends, family and the community.

"There's no prerequisite for experience or talent level ... there's something for everyone," said Bruce Sampson, WBZB president. "The real important part is our goal of increasing self-confidence, nurturing self-expression and creating a sense of community."

The first 6-week series will be themed "Summer Vacation" and will feature various styles of music, dance and skits for the final show. Students will be grouped according to age (7-10, 11-14 and 15-18). Each class lasts three hours.

Students can register online at www.ArtsReach.org/artsfusion.

Many theater chains will soon for offering a cheap form of entertaiment for families looking for something to do this summer. Hit movies from earlier in the season or years past will be showing at certain times for cheap or free admission prices. Some host the family movie days once a week at matinee times, others in the evenings, but all cost no more than a buck or two.

Written by guest author Dianne Bright:

Dianne Bright
Guest Author

Each eclectic mug we sip our coffee or tea from has a story to tell. If mugs could talk, we would hear such amazing tales of old. Some mugs reflect such poignant memories from the past. Do you remember the time I sat with Billie over that cup of English tea? It was a beautiful ceramic one decorated with pansies, chrysanthemums, and light pink ivy geraniums. Oh, what a conversation that was, and the tea was delightful with just the right amount of honey in it. I didn't really know much about the War until I sat next to her on that rainy afternoon.

Amateur golfers can join Tom Arnold for the 9th Annual Davi Golf Classic at the new Journey Golf Course at Pechanga in Temecula Friday as part of a fundraiser created to help send children living with heart disease to summer camp.

The Davi Golf Benefit was established in memory of Temecula resident Daviana "Davi" Hogan by her mother Janene. Camp del Corazon was something really special to Davi.

In addition to Arnold, several other stars are coming out for the 9th year of this annual event including Noah Munck of Nickelodeon's "iCarly" and McKenzie Westmore of "All My Children."

Camp del Corazon is a nonprofit organization that provides free-of-charge residential summer camp, leadership retreats, educational symposiums and family weekend programs designed for children with heart disease. The camp was established in 1995 and is staffed by volunteer counselors, nurses and physicians.

Individual tickets are $250 and include the tournament, lunch and dinner, participation hole in one, longest drive, and closest-to-the-pin contests. There are also group packages and individual sponsorship plans.

For more information visit www.campdelcorazon.org.

Once upon a time I lived within hearing distance of the Redlands Bowl. I could sit on the balcony and listen to the summer concerts or wander over and watch as well on the scheduled performance nights.

There's something like this in most of the Inland communities. The 2009 Lake Arrowhead Village Free Concert Series already kicked off in May. This year's theme is a tribute to classic rock. The Summer Sunsets Concerts Series 2009 in Temecula will be Thursday nights in July and August at the Temecula Amphitheater.

The 2009 Redlands Bowl season will kick off June 26 with a San Bernardino Symphony concert with conductor Frank Paul Fetta and two-time Grammy award winner Rita Coolridge.

All programs begin at 8:15 p.m. Community Sing is at 7:15 p.m. prior to the concerts on Tuesdays, except where noted. All events are free and open to the general public.

Fort Worth Star-Telegram/2007

Here is the schedule:

Friday, June 26: The San Bernardino Symphony
Tuesday, June 30: Winners of the 58th Annual Young Artists Auditions
Friday, July 3: Dark in observance of 4th of July
Tuesday, July 7: A Tribute to Tommy Dorsey & the Big Bands
Friday, July 10: Cody Bryant and the Riders of the Purple Sage
Saturday, July 11: Navy Band Southwest
Tuesday, July 14: Barrage
Friday, July 17: Viver Brasil Dance Company
Tuesday, July 21: "1776" dress rehearsal (no Community Sing)
Thursday, Friday, Saturday, July 23, 24, 25: "1776"
Tuesday, July 28: The Redlands Symphony Orchestra
Friday, July 31: Incendio
Tuesday, August 4: Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Band
Friday, August 7: Brockus Project Dance Company
Tuesday, August 11: Craicmore and the Margaret Cleary Dancers
Friday, August 14: Opera a La Carte: "The Pirates of Penzance"
Tuesday, August 18: Dallas Brass
Friday, August 21: Redlands Symphony Orchestra: "Double Bi-Centennial"

For more information on the Redlands Bowl Summer Concert Series go here.

Lake Arrowhead Village's concert info can be found here.

Info on Temecula's Summer Sunset Concerts can be found here.

If your community has a summer concert series coming up, please share!

Written by guest author Maura Ammenheuser:

Does anyone else experience the weird time warp that is summer break?

Maura Ammenheuser
Guest Author

My children have just three days left of school before they're out for two months. I know this week will zoom by, with a blur of field days, award ceremonies, ice cream parties and more. At home, I'm scrambling to maximize what little quiet free time I'll have for work and other grown-up responsibilities between helping teachers with classroom parties and events. On Friday, the kids will be home -- free! And extremely energized! Carving out necessary quiet time for work or just a deep inhale will become far more difficult.

Written by guest author Dianne Bright:

"Just go for it" is my new motto. Why not? Life is so short, so there's no reason to hold back from your dreams, passions, and your god-given talents. If you were to die tomorrow, wouldn't you want to know you gave this life your best shot in every area? I would want to know upon looking over my thirty-three years of life that I was committed to getting the most out of each and every day.

Dianne Bright
Guest Author

In psychological terms, one observes a response mechanism called "fight or flight". If you are faced with a threatening situation, you either stay there and fight or you put on your sprinting shoes and flee the scene. I experienced this with surfing awhile back. When a huge set of waves surged in, the response was either to fight it and catch one of those big gnarly looking waves or to duck-dive under them at their calm point, escaping the thunderous crash. Since I'm not very good at surfing, more of an observer of the ocean's magnificent beauty and power, I usually opted for going under the wave with the leash attached to my ankle.

Redlands Community Hospital is looking for babies born at the hospital from 2006 to the present (and Mom and Dad too) for the mother of all - er, baby of all? - photo opportunities.

The Baby Day Photo Event will take place Saturday, June 6, at the hospital between the Weisser Education Pavilion and the Morey Mansion.

This photo tradition began in 1929 and the hospital has decided to reinstitute the tradition, planning to take a historic photo every two years. Visitors can see previous Baby Day photos on display in the hospital.

The hospital averages more than 2,000 babies born there annually, so there should be lots of cute little baby faces hamming it up for the camera.

Where: Redlands Community Hospital, 350 Terracina Blvd., Redlands
When: 10 a.m.-noon, June 6

The Inland Idol solo vocal competition that began in March with more than 600 young singers from all over Southern California came to a conclusion Sunday evening when three talented participants were named the winners.

Mark Zaleski/The Press-Enterprise

Max Hayama, right, of Corona, is cheered by fellow contestants after winning the Inland Idol age 7 to 10 group at the La Mirada Theatre For The Performing Arts in La Mirada on Sunday.

The winners included two from the Inland area. In the 7-10 age group, the winner was Max Hayama, of Corona. In the 15-18 group, Briana Tyson, of Norco, won. The winner in the 11-14 group was Darian Gargan, of Victorville.

Thirty-three young peopled performed for a crowd of about 850 and three celebrity judges at La Mirada Theatre For The Performing Arts. Each sang a one- to two-minute song of their choice with musical background tracks.