Issuu

FastForward

Vol. 31 #5 May-June 2022

...have a great summer Artwork by Amara Lee- Watson White Hill Middle School

SPONSORS PLATINUM

HumaneBday - 3.625 x 4 - final.pdf

8/10/20

3:31 PM

Learn about our

WASTEWATER AGENCIES OF MARIN COUNTY

NEW

GOLD

remote humane birthday parties!

CMY

Call 415.506.6288 or visit marinhumane.org/birthday

MILL VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL Drama Class

SPONSORED BY:

Arte • Agricultura • Comunidad

Green Team

Check out our Shop & Give Donations Program — Select your favorite charity and we’ll donate 2% of your total grocery receipts.

DID YOU KNOW?

Did you know that placing compostable items like food scraps and paper napkins into the trash affects climate change? When compostable items break down in a landfill, it creates methane gas. According to the EPA, “methane gas is 25 times more efficient at trapping radiation than carbon dioxide over a 100 year period.” That’s why our Green Team tries hard to sort everything to the correct places. By properly sorting our waste and being conscientious about food waste, we can help combat climate change. Green Team students say: “Our jobs are important because we work to make sure all people’s trash in our school goes to the right place. It’s important for us to learn, so we can inform others. A small change is a change. At Strawberry Point, we are one of the closest schools to the bay and our Green Team helps to keep trash from getting into the ocean. We help others learn where to put their trash to make the world a better place. Having a green team at SP is important for the environment and to help educate others. As members of the Green team, we help sort the trash because — ‘One wrong ingredient ruins the whole batch’.” Written by Sabrina McEntee and Zander Ting, 5th Grade

Saint Isabella K-8 School provides a wholesome nurturing environment that establishes a foundation for lifelong learning. We are a parent involved school located in Terra Linda on a private campus close to Hwy. 101. Our programs promote the academic, social, and spiritual development of our students.

School Tours are offered by Appointment 415-479-3727 x112 or admissions@stisabellaschool.org 1 Trinity Way Terra Linda – San Rafael www.stisabellaschool.org

Preser ve your child’s art

Monday - Saturday 10-6 ~ 320 Bon Air Center Greenbrae www.framecraftersgallery.com ~ (415) 461-7688 FASTFORWARD

MAY-JUNE

2022 3

LEADING THE WAY Longtime Bay Area reporter asks the questions.... BY KATE McHUGH SENIOR, REDWOOD HIGH SCHOOL REPORTERS: SAMANTHA ELEGANT ARJUN AUJILA, GEMMA STRAUSS AND KENT GOODMAN

“I want to speak for the people who have been marginalized and oppressed. I want to be part of that change that centers on race an equity in all of our coverage.”

hink about the stories you write. Are you telling tales that veer into the trivial and don’t address the world we live in? Or are you sharing stories that reflect our times, have a unique perspective and are true to your experience?

OTIS TAYLOR ENCOURGES US TO LOOK AT STORIES FROM EVERY ANGLE As journalists we try to find unique stories. We zoomed in with Otis Taylor, Supervising Senior Editor of Race and Equity coverage at KQED, to find out how this award-winning columnist, reporter, editor and lecturer confronts housing, policing, immigration and other critical subjects through his profession. “Journalism is in me, it’s part of who I am,” he said during our interview. “It’s part of how I want to leave a mark. I want to speak for the people who have been marginalized and oppressed. I want to be part of that change that centers race and equity in all our coverage.” Taylor has been a journalism fan since he began devouring the morning paper with his breakfast at a young age. At Clemson University he was news editor of The Tiger, the student newspaper, before beginning his career as a sports reporter at the Seneca (South Carolina) Daily Journal and then progressing into arts and culture coverage, investigative reporting, content editing and a four-year gig as the San Francisco Chronicle’s East Bay columnist, for which he was named 2020 Journalist of the Year by the Northern California Society of Professional Journalists. We asked Taylor how we can evolve our magazine into a more diverse publication,

one that is all-inclusive and makes people of color feel safe. “You need to think of who are the voices that you want to have in your story,” he said. “You must want to make connections in communities that are different from yours. You must want to tell a story about where you live, the state you live in, the country you live in. You must want to tell a story that centers people of color, instead of people of color being ‘other.’ I’ve found that some of my colleagues don’t feel comfortable interacting with communities of color. My job is to figure out how to teach my colleagues to interact with those communities, and sometimes it’s tough.” Many of Taylor’s stories have focused on homelessness in the Bay Area. His approach is to talk to actual unhoused people instead of the so-called experts. “For so long journalism has let others talk for people who have had problems,” he said. “I think journalism is about going from the bottom up and talking to the people you’re reporting on.” Taylor has also used this approach to cover the Black Lives Matter movement. “We haven’t been truthful about the history of this country,” Taylor said. “These protests have sprung up in this country for decades. Why don’t we ask ourselves, why are people protest-

ing? Why are people in the streets? Why are they angry? Instead of telling them to protest peacefully, you must ask why they’re upset. It’s hard without an education, without job opportunities, without a safety net. So many people who were born here, their parents were born here, their grandparents migrated from the South, people with generational ties to the Bay Area can no longer afford to live here. Black Lives Matter and other protests after George Floyd have led us to rethink our approach to poverty and the income gap.” Taylor feels it’s important to look at stories from every angle and to think about who’s included, who’s left out and if all viewpoints are represented. “KQED has made a point of wanting to center equity in its coverage,” he said. “I was hired to work with my colleagues on story framing, that’s number one. You need to think about how our history is representative of our present. Like the narrative of people not working hard, people not wanting jobs. That is false. If you go into communities with high crime rates like homicides, the headline is ‘Homicides are rising.’ But if you look at where those homicides are occurring, what do you see? You don’t see grocery stores, you don’t see restaurants, you don’t see CVS, you don’t see bookstores. You see FASTFORWARD

MAY-JUNE

2022

check-cashing places, liquor stores, and the education offered in these areas is poor. So in writing about this, you must add context. You must think deeply about what you want to say, as an organization, and make it part of your mission. “Make it a priority to create stories that acknowledge that people haven’t been represented in the media, they haven’t been represented in politics, especially local politics. If you want to do a story on health disparities with COVID, who are you going to tell that story through? Find that person, and then you have your story.” As youth journalists, we write stories we think our peers will want to read. We think everyone lives like we do. But that’s not the case and it never has been. Otis Taylor has inspired us to expand our worldview. “We all have bias,” he said. “It’s part of who we are. But always try to check it and look at every story from all angles. Am I seeing this the way I’m supposed to? Or am I seeing this because of my bias?” Taylor’s success as a journalist who’s made a difference stems from the injustices he’s faced as a Black man. The inequality that exists in this country empowers him to continue to make change. “Yes, I have access to opportunities. But in America, in the Bay Area, I’m still a Black man. My access to opportunity is conditional, it always has been, and I don’t want it to be.” To access all of Taylor’s stories, visit his muckrack profile at: https://muckrack.com/otisrtaylorjr 6 FASTFORWARD

MAY-JUNE 2022

Want to write a story on a meaningful issue? Here are some simple ideas to consider — On homelessness: If you do a story on homelessness, talk to someone who has lived the experience. You can’t talk about homelessness without talking to the people who are without a house, the people who need help, who are a representative of the breakdown of our social safety net. We must think about how people are going to aid themselves without help from us. It’s not going to happen without that. Housing is not the answer. What is the answer is working with the people step by step. And after they get their house, to continue working with them.

On hate crimes: How are we going to write about hate crime? Again, you must talk to members of the community. What do they need? What do they want? And how can they feel safer in their communities? As journalists, we need to focus on adding diverse sources to our coverage. We need to focus on letting more people speak instead of the usual people. When we get facts, 50 percent of our sources are white, and it’s mostly white males. Why is that? Because they’re easy to find. We need to start thinking about diversifying our source space and talking more to the community.

Photo Credit: Margaret Duane

Otis Taylor on set at KQED, “I don’t know how many times — online and in person — that I’ve been told to ‘do your own research.’ That is important.”

THE JOB: I hope to make my job obsolete. But it’s going to take a lot. My goal is to add cultural competency to the organization and have all of our coverage to think deeply about who we’re centering in the story, who we’re writing about and who we’re writing for. And I found that the job is much more complicated than I anticipated. But I am engaged. I see this as an opportunity to make change. And that’s why I took the job. I want to give back. I want to be a resource for journalism to make the changes that we need to do.

The Marin County Free Library’s Mission is to provide welcoming, equitable and inclusive opportunities for all to connect, learn and explore. A core strategy to achieve our Mission is providing resources and information that will help our community learn about and more deeply engage in racial equity. Visit: marinlibrary.org

FASTFORWARD

MAY-JUNE

2022

Summer Camps ANDREWSCAMPS: Marin County, Corte Madera June 13th - Aug 23rd 9:00AM-5:00PM AT THE CENTER Age 5+ Large indoor and outdoor play areas. Active games: zip line, bouncy houses, laser/nerf tag, trampoline, climbing wall, monkey bars, hockey, soccer, baseball, basketball, obstacle courses, capture the flag, and more. Creative activities: Play rooms, Lego room, computer rooms, arts and crafts rooms. ADVENTURE DAY TRIPS Age 7+ Six Flags, Hurricane Harbor, Rebounderz, Scandia, Spring Lake, Cal Skate, & more. OVERNIGHT CAMPS at Clark Creek Lodge Grades 4-12 Nice cabins, lodge, incredible activities: swimming, boating, tubing, jet skis, rafting, archery, BB guns, paintball, dune buggies, cave exploration, fishing, hiking, and more. REGISTER NOW! ANDREWSCAMPS.COM 415-891-3185 CAMP FUNDERBLAST: Games, arts & crafts, swimming, nature adventures, chill time & more in a fun, loving, safe environment. Led by Veronica Cowen. 4 Locations: Mill Valley: Scott Valley Swim & Tennis Club, Homestead Valley Community Association, Peace Lutheran Church. Fairfax: Saint Rita’s Campus.PreK-7th grade. Swimming at Homestead or Scott Valley w/ option to participate in Tennis Camp at Scott Valley. Homestead: 9AM-4PM June 13-Aug. 12; Scott Valley: 9AM-4PM, June 13-Aug. 19; Peace Lutheran: June

9:00AM-5:00PM June 13-August 19; Fairfax: 9:00AM4:00PM. June 13-Aug. 12. FUNDERBLAST.COM 415-843-1730 CAMP STRAWBERRY AT STRAWBERRY RECREATION CENTER: Ready, Set, Go Camp Strawberry! Swimming, tennis, soccer, field games, nature walks, themed days, arts & crafts and more. Camps: June 13— August 12 with full summer or weekly options. Camps for three age groups: Ages 5-12 (1 and 2-week sessions available); Ages 9-12 Athletic X-Training Camp, M-F, 9:00AM-4:00PM; Camper-In-Leadership Training (CILT)– ages 12 to 14 (M-F, 9:00AM– 4:00PM). STRAWBERRY.MARIN.ORG 415-383-6494 CARMEL VALLEY TENNIS CAMP est 1970: Tennis... and a whole lot more! Consistently picked by Tennis Magazine as a “Top 5” sleep away tennis camp in the USA. Excellent tennis instruction, healthy competition, conditioning, and numerous sports and social activities take place in Carmel Valley on a beautiful 38 acre private and secure setting as a tennis camp for children 10-18. Only Tennis Camp in the West accredited by American Camp Association. CARMELVALLEYTENNISCAMP.COM 831-659-2615 CIRCUS CENTER SF — SUMMER CAMPS 2022: Run away with the circus this summer! AGES: 7-13. DATES:

1-week sessions, June 6 – August 26. CIRCUSCENTER.ORG/CAMP

415-759-8123

CITY OF SAN RAFAEL CHILD CARE DIVISION, KIDS CAMP: A fun-filled, action-packed summer program for kids ages 5-11, at Coleman, Glenwood, Lucas Valley, Parkside, Mary Silveira and Vallecito Children’s Center. Children have the opportunity to create, explore, swim, splash, play games and just enjoy being a kid! June 13thAugust 16th. Each of our 6 centers has professional, caring enthusiastic staff that plan and present a wide variety of kid-friendly activities and special events in safe, state-licensed facilities. Centers open M-F, 8:00am4:30pm. Weekly rate $280.00. Additional fees for field trip and swim days. CITYOFSANRAFAEL.ORG 415-485-3386 COASTAL CAMP: A day at Coastal Camp is a day spent connecting with nature. With the Marin Headlands as our backdrop, campers learn more about the topics they love while exploring the coastal trails and marine setting. Our highly qualified staff engage campers’ interests and curiosity with a program that is flexible and adaptive to each group’s needs. Offering week-long sessions for campers entering grades K-12. Session dates run June 6 - August 19, 2022. Transportation is available from Mill Valley & San Francisco. COASTALCAMP.ORG 415-331-1548 ...Continued on page 12

summer camp spanish immersion

mandarin

Earth

earth discovery (Ages 3-5)

mania (Ages 3-10)

discovery (Ages 3-9)

70 Lomita Dr. Mill Valley | (415) 906-2220

8 FASTFORWARD

MAY-JUNE 2022

June 20 - August 12, 2022

San Francisco + Marin Locations

TERRA MARIN CAMP

CALIFORNIA FILM INSTITUTE PRESENTS GROUP SESSIONS now Available SUMMER Running/Track & Field

OPEN REGISTRATION

marinwavestrack.com

SHAKESPEARE SUMMER CAMPS WE MAKE SHAKESPEARE FUN!

S U M M E R C A M P S T H AT E X P L O R E ALL ANGLES OF THE INDUSTRY AND ARTISTRY OF FILM

NARRATIVE FILM PRODUCTION FOR TWEENS

IN PERSON | JULY 11-15 | AGES 11-13

BEHIND THE SCENES

ONLINE | JULY 11-15 | AGES 14-18

DOCUMENTARY FILM PRODUCTION FOR TEENS

IN PERSON | JULY 18-22 | AGES 14-18

YOUNG CURATORS

ONLINE | JULY 25-29 | AGES 15-18

Campers will gain self-conﬁdence, explore their creativity, build intellectual curiosity, and make friends — with experienced and caring teaching artists!

CAMPS AVAILABLE FOR JUNE - AUGUST www.marinshakespeare.org/summer-camps

COMPLETE PROGRAM INFORMATION & REGISTRATION AT:

CFIEDUCATION.ORG/SUMMERFILM This ad generously provided by

VOTED BEST LOCAL GREEN BUSINESS FASTFORWARD

MAY-JUNE 2022

A proud partner of the National Park Service A proud partner of the National Park Service

COASTAL CAMP 2022 COASTAL CAMP 2022

R E M M U S S THI IN THE

A R R E I S The ultimate setting for nature-based exploration, outdoor adventures and fun. The ultimate setting for nature-based exploration, outdoor adventures and fun.

WHEN: Weeklong sessions from June 6–August 19, 2022

WHO: Serving grades K-12;from campers fall 2022 grade levels WHEN: Weeklong sessions June grouped 6–Augustby19, 2022 *New Counselor-in-Training program available for grades 10-12

wcamp.co

goldarro

WHO: Serving grades K-12; campers grouped by fall 2022 grade levels DETAILS: *New Counselor-in-Training program available for grades 10-12 • Sessions include a camp t-shirt

DETAILS: • Explore the Marin Headlands though adventure, games and science • Sessions include a camp t-shirt • Transportation available from San Francisco and Marin • Explore the Marin Headlands though adventure, games and science

“ “

• Transportation available from San Francisco and Marin What an amazing experience for city kids to be immersed in nature! They came home and taught me about nativeexperience species and ways help What an amazing for city to kids to our be environment–such an amazing program! immersed in nature! They came home and taught

” ”

me about native species and ways to help our —COASTAL CAMP PARENT environment–such an amazing program! —COASTAL CAMP PARENT

BOYS & GIRLS GRADES K-9 FRIENDSHIP & FUN SINCE 1933

SUMMER CAMPS AT SAN DOMENICO

Discover. Explore. Create. Academics • Sports • Arts • STEM • Digital Media • Music and more Ages 5-17 • sandomenico.org/summers

Kids see nature up close at Vilda Nature Camp

10 FASTFORWARD

MAY-JUNE 2022

41st ANNUAL DAVE FROMER SOCCER

SUMMER CAMPS

JUNE, JULY & AUGUST MONDAY - FRIDAY, 9AM - 3PM BOYS & GIRLS, AGES 5 - 12 TOP PROFESSIONAL COACHING STAFF

SUMMER SESSION! • Middle & high school courses • Accelerate your learning or recover a grade • 1-on-1 instruction, in-person or online

Since 1974, our dynamic, experienced coaching staff has been helping players develop ball skills, provide tactical training, and build passion for the beautiful game of soccer. Attending camp is a great way to stay active, meet new friends and have lots of FUN!

Explore our wide range of over 140 UC-approved classes, including 34 AP and 24 honors classes. MILL VALLEY ••LARKSPUR • SAN RAFAELL••NORTH LAKE TAHOE

Rolling Enrollment at www.HeadlandsPrep.com

Super Charge Your Summer WITH Mill Valley Recreation Summer Camps!

Is Learning a Struggle? SoloQuest can help!

Learning Center ● ●

Camps Available for Preschool through Teens * Depends on the camp, see specific camp for details

Register Today at MyMVR.org! Mill Valley Recreation | 180 Camino Alto, Mill Valley (415) 383-1370 | millvalleyrecreation.org

● ●

Summer Session

Identify cause of challenge One-to-one Cognitive Training strengthens weak underlying skills, like memory, attention, processing One-to-one instruction All ages and grades 45 San Clemente Dr., C200 Corte Madera, Ca (415) 927-1449

● ●

College Prep Courses WASC - accredited

Tutoring ● ●

All Subjects ACT/SAT/GED test prep

sqofﬁce@soloquest.com www.soloquest.com

FASTFORWARD

MAY-JUNE 2022 11

Summer Camps ...continued from page 8

CULINARY DUDE’S SUMMER CAMP: Let your child experience the wonders of cooking with the Culinary Dude’s Summer Cooking Camps. Our hands-on cooking camps will enable kids to find their inner chef. The Culinary Dude has created a wonderful collection of daily menus that the kids will cook themselves. Using the freshest ingredients, fun and interactive cooking techniques, the kids will prepare meals from scratch each day. Held at Bel Aire Elementary School, 277 Karen Way, Tiburon, 94920. THECULINARY DUDE.COM 415-242-4192 DAVE FROMER’S 41st ANNUAL SOCCER CAMPS: June 20th - August 19th for boys and girls of all ability levels aged 5-12. Featuring a top-level coaching staff with an emphasis on skill development & fun! Coed and all-girl camp sessions offered weekly with sites throughout Marin County (Mill Valley, San Rafael & Larkspur). Plus a camp in North Lake Tahoe. Full-Day (M-F 9AM - 3PM) and Half-Day (M-F 9AM - 12:30PM) options available. Supervision is available beginning at 8:30AM for all camps. DAVEFROMERSOCCER.COM 415-383-0320 FASTFORWARD ADVENTURE REPORTERS: Fascinating Interviews set up with authors, actors, actresses, politicians and filmmakers For beginning level writers & up! Students conduct 4 interviews p/ week, developing interviewing & writing skills, learning that “listening to someone else can change your life.” Photography, broadcast journalism & creating interactive slide shows are all in our project-based fun camp! TWO weeks of camps: June 13-17 and June 2024, $400 p/week. Email: winifred@fastforwardweb.com FASTFORWARDWEB.COM 415-256-8920 MARIN GREENPLAY CAMP 2022: A Marin IJ Readers Best Summer Camp. Marin GreenPlay Camp is a nature and adventure day and overnight camp now in its 12th summer for kids entering kindergarten through 12th grade. Activities, depending on the camp program selected, include outdoor rock climbing, tidepooling, boogie boarding, kayaking, exploring, nature art, service learning and more! June 20 - July 29. Full day (9AM-4PM) and half day (9AM-1PM) sessions available. Mill Valley, Tiburon, Larkspur and other locations in Marin and Tahoe. Offering Outdoor Rock Climbing Camp: New climbers get a full five days of learning beginning climbing skills from AMGA certified Single Pitch Instructors at Ring Mountain and in the Berkeley Hills, Mickey’s Beach, Sunset Boulders & Castle Rock, all popular Bay area climbing areas. MARINGREENPLAY.COM 415-264-2828 MARIN HORIZON SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP: Summer 1-week camp sessions for ages 3–7 that’s fun AND academic! Every week has a different theme. In previous years, themes have included Community, Art, Kitchen Chemistry, Imagination, Science and Engineering, Music Makers, and Outdoor Ed. Many of our themes include engaging STEAM-themed projects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) for even our youngest campers. All groups have a 12:1 camper to counselor ratio. Normal hours from 9AM– 3PM and extended care from 8:30AM–4:30PM. June 20 – July 29. Email:summercamp@marinhorizon.org MARINHORIZON.ORG/SUMMER 415-388-8408 ext. 253 12 FASTFORWARD

MAY-JUNE 2022

MARIN JCC CAMP KEHILLAH: Offers a variety of camps for TK-10th graders. Our specialty pre-camp is June 13 to 17 and the four 2-week sessions run from June 20 to August 12. Together, we play games, build social skills, create art, discover, and make new friends. We create a lifetime of magical summer camp memories while learning and living Jewish culture and values. JCC campers and counselors come from a rich diversity of cultures, faiths, and backgrounds from Marin and beyond. Voted one of Marin’s best summer camps year after year, our camp is ACA Accredited, holding us to higher standards for excellence and safety. Our staff is fully trained in First Aid, AED and CPR, offering campers one of the safest environments to spend their summer days. We offer three types of camp programming: pre-camp, traditional camps, and a CIT (Counselor in Training) program. Osher Marin JCC, 200 N.San Pedro Rd, San Rafael. For info, email Brittany Mihalik, Camp Director at bmahalik@marinjcc.org Marinjcc.org/summer-camp/ 415.444.8055 MARIN SHAKESPEARE COMPANY: We make Shakespeare fun! For ages 8-12, we offer four different 3-week camp sessions starting June 13, July 5 and July 25. They’ll explore Shakespeare’s exciting characters, language and stories, culminating in a performance. Campers ages 12-19 will work with a professional director July 5-27 to rehearse and perform Twelfth Night. MARINSHAKESPEARE.ORG /SUMMER-CAMPS 415-499-4487 MARIN WAVES TRACK CLUB MARIN WAVES TRACK CLUB a USATF Member Club since 2007: 6 National Champion Awards; 8 National Runner-Up Awards; 29 Total JO Youth All-American Awards. 20 AAU National Indoor/Outdoor Top 8 Awards; 10 AAU West Coast Nationals Champions. Track & Field, Speed & Agility Training for All Sports, Cross Country, and Road Racing. Sessions include cardio work, dynamics, speed development, individualized workouts, strength building & flexibility training. Spring Track: MARCH 21 - JUNE 5 Summer Track: JUNE 6 - AUGUST 7 Age Groups: Youth (6-14), High School & Above. All ability levels: Beginners - Elite. Group Training sessions avail. 3-4 p/wk. All-Comers & USATF Meets. Contact: David Hay, Club Founder/Head Coach Phone: 415-272-1225 MARINWAVESTRACK.COM 415-272-1225 MILL VALLEY RECREATION — SUMMER CAMP PROGRAMS: Kids Preschool—Teens have lots to choose from: Preschool-5th graders, Cool off with Splash Camp: Swim lessons & all types of indoor and outdoor activities and recreational swim for 1 week sessions or drop-in for the day, Extended Care is available for specific camps, contact us for more information. Preschool Splash & Afternoon Camps AM & PM offer half-day options for the younger set. Sports & Specialty Camps: Camp Creative, Camp PAASS, Legos, Theater, Tennis, Soccer, Flag Football, Spanish Immersion; Technology, Yoga, Mindfulness, Art, & more. Teen Opportunities include our CIT Program and Performing Arts. View our Spring/Summer Activity Guide at MILLVALLEYRECREATION.ORG for additional activities, special events and classes. Questions? Call us at (415) 383-1370. MILLVALLEYRECREATION.ORG 415-383-1370

MORNING STAR FARM HORSE CAMPS: Offering English/Western horse camps for ages 5-14 years, June 13-August 12. Camps divided by age groups & riding styles: Full Day (9AM-4PM) or Half Day (9AM12:30PM). Focus on riding instruction, horse care, vaulting and trail riding. Also: Western/Rodeo Camp & Jumping Camp. Winter and Spring break camps are also offered. MORNINGSTARFARM.INFO 415-897-1633 PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY OF MARIN: PAAM offers a full summer schedule to fill your days with the performing arts! Weekly programs in Theater Arts and Dance are available throughout the summer. Students gain superior training from seasoned professionals in a supportive and fun environment. Programs are grouped by age for students Ages 4 & up! Our Theater Arts camps culminate with a performance for the family. June 13-August 12. PAAMARTS.COM 415-380-0887 POEKIE NOOK: Hand-sewing, beginning to advanced, beading, and other arts and crafts, for children age 6 - 12. We nurture a child’s creative world through sewing one-of-a -kind plush animals along with their accessories and habitats. Memberships: $115 for 5hr/month, $215 for 15hr/month Email: PoekieNook.millvalley@poekienook.com POEKIENOOK.COM 415-326-5202 ROSS ACADEMY MONTESSORI SCHOOL’S SUMMER MINI CAMP 2022: Continuing Montessori environment with regular staff the entire summer & lots of outdoor fun! Guest Appearances & Special Events. AGES: Toddler Program 2-3 years. Primary Program 3-5 years. Held at Ross Academy Montessori School, 7 Thomas Drive, Mill Valley. June 21-August 12. 9AM2:30PM (Full Day) 9AM-Noon (Half Day) Extended daycare available 7AM-6:15PM. 2,4,6 & 8 week programs available (Minimum 2 consecutive weeks). 3 Day programs (Toddlers only). Email: rams@rossacademymontessori.com ROSSACADEMYMONTESSORISCHOOLS.COM 415-383-5777 SAN DOMENICO SCHOOL’S SUMMER PROGRAM: With camps for makers, scientists, creators, and more! From academic enrichment to co-curriculars, you can build your own summer of fun and learning. Academic readiness including Math, Science, Mandarin, and Creative Writing! Digital Music, Band, Filmmaking, Dance, Fashion Design, and Theatre Arts! Adventure and Technology camps! Nike Sports camps plus Tennis, Basketball, Soccer, Water Polo, Ultimate Frisbee, and more. Camps will fill up even more quickly this year. Ages 5 -17 | June 20–July 29. Contact us at: SANDOMENICO.ORG/about/summer-programs-2022 415-258-1944 SUMMERCREST: An academic camp for students entering grades K-6, held at Lucas Valley Elementary School in San Rafael. Two 3-week sessions: June 13- July 2; July 5 July - July 22. SummerCrest offers a unique program: hands-on academic classes and broadening enrichment activities interwoven during the day. Classes such as Maker’s Science, Rainforest Exploration, Safari Adventure, art, team building, outdoor games, beginning coding, & more. See you website for complete information on classes and registration. Respect, fun, and sense of community are fostered by the well-trained, credentialed staff. SUMMERCREST.ORG 415-457-6672

VILDA NATURE CAMPS: Vilda’s beloved nature camps are a 100% awesome summer experience in the hills, lakes and bays of Marin, Petaluma & Tahoe. With wilderness skills, nature connection and ecological stewardship wrapped in lots of adventure and play, campers learn about animal tracking, wild edible plants, primitive skills, ecological crafts, kayaking, carpentry, backpacking and much more. Ages 4-13. Sessions available June 13 - August 19. Info@vildanature.org VILDANATURE.ORG 415-747-4840

RESIDENT CAMPS

www.farmcampca.com 844.84 7 .3494

GOLD ARROW CAMP: Since 1933, Gold Arrow Camp has provided three generations of campers with a supportive community, enriching lives through relationships and outdoor experiences. In our beautiful setting on the shore of Huntington Lake, in the heart of the Sierra National Forest, campers have a chance to enjoy a traditional outdoor camp, complete with rustic living, nightly campfires and getting “unplugged.” Campers gain valuable life skills while at camp – independence, perseverance, and confidence – that will benefit them beyond camp in all areas of their lives. Our vision is to equip young people to bring positive changes to the world by teaching and modeling positive values and character traits. Gold Arrow Camp is accredited by the American Camp Association and is a member of the Western Association of Independent Camps. For more information, visit the camp website at: GOLDARROWCAMP.COM 800-554-2267 MOUNTAIN CAMP: A traditional, coed camp for kids ages 7-16, providing a magical outdoor setting where campers unplug, make friends, try new activities and make memories that last. Located on a beautiful high sierra lake in the El Dorado National Forest, near Lake Tahoe. Sailing, Wakeboarding, Water Skiing, Ropes Course, Arts and Crafts, Photography, Video Production, Mountain Biking, Drama, Dance, Kayaking, Fort-building & more. Offering 1, 2, 3 and 4 week sessions. ACA accredited. MOUNTAINCAMP.COM 415-351-CAMP (2267)

FASTFORWARD

MAY-JUNE 2022 13

TODD PARR

Spreading Love, One Book, One Child at a Time An Interview with Todd Parr

By Emerson Swift Freshman, Tamalpais High School INTERVIEWERS: ANYA ESMAIL, CAMERON COLLMAN, MAYA ESMAIL, RONAN CORBIT AND AUDREY LOWELL STRAWBERRY POINT ELEMENTARY, MILL VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL AND TAMALPAIS HIGH SCHOOL

14 FASTFORWARD

MAY-JUNE 2022

n Planet Todd World — a place only available via spaceship — otherwise known as Berkeley, California lives a macaroni-eating storyteller by the name of Todd Parr. When he’s not sitting at his desk next to a giant window with a tall bookcase full of colorful picture books, he’s probably walking his beloved pitbulls. Todd is known for his series of picture books spreading positive, kind messages in classrooms around the world. “Hey, this is me. Here are my books.

The safest thing to do is to always be yourself,” Todd tells us. This level of candor is rare amongst people nowadays, and he acknowledges that it’s been a long journey to arrive there. As a kid Todd had trouble reading out loud and composing sentences. He was diagnosed with dyslexia and attention deficit disorder (ADHD). He remembers sitting on his grandmother’s lap listening to her read “Go Dog Go” by P. D. Eastman every night. While Todd couldn’t read it himself, he memorized the book. Reading was more than deciphering the words on the page, reading was an experience. It’s what made reading books special for him. Reading was hard for Todd, so he focused on drawing. “I had to repeat second grade. Second grade was a big deal for me. Twice, learn to read, learn to draw Snoopy,” he remembered. He liked tracing Snoopy in his second-grade classroom. But Todd was discouraged to pursue a career in art from an early age. In high school, his art teacher told him he shouldn’t pursue his artistic dreams because he had trouble taking directions, critiques, developing a style, or focusing — all characteristics of his ADHD. Instead, Todd became a flight attendant with United Airlines. He traveled the world, which eventually gave him enough confidence to come back to his art. Inspired by other artists at that time he decided to “be an adult that draws like a kid.” Here, Todd’s style developed into what it is today: colorful and fun characters children around the world can relate to. He even has his own font. “I’m proud to be that guy that draws like a six-year-old,” Todd says with a smile. When asked about why he likes writing for kids, his passion is apparent and fueled by helping kids become the best they can be. In his book “It’s Okay to Be Different” he depicts children with disabilities, “It’s okay to have wheels” (a child in a wheelchair) and “It’s okay to need some help” (a blind

TODD’s ADVICE: “Be who you are.” “If you can find self-confidence, it goes a long way. Nothing is as easy as it seems. You always have to be prepared for rejection. The biggest takeaway that I can give to you is that I had many years wanting to give up because I didn’t believe in myself. I struggled so much with something that I love to do. It took years to find my confidence. I almost gave up. But, by not giving up, it led me down a path that I didn’t expect. I became a children’s books author when all I wanted to be was an artist. I didn’t even entertain writing books because of my experience in second grade and not being able to read. I almost felt apologetic. I could not read kid’s books. I failed second grade because of this. I have Dyslexia. I thought, ‘I don’t have stories. I don’t have characters. How can I write a kid’s book?’ But then I opened my mind to something I wasn’t expecting. I’m not a big fan of saying everything will work out and don’t give up. I know, it’s hard. It’s not easy. But I think there’s a point to be made there. By being open and moving forward, you can find things that you weren’t thinking about. For me, the confidence thing was a big was a big deal. I was always trying to be like everybody else, copying them. I’ll draw like them, I’ll wear what they’re wearing, because I didn’t think I knew how. It’s a lot easier when you believe in yourself. If you can do this and be proud of who you are, you will feel good about yourself. You can move forward, you can kind of drown out some of the noise, because there’s always going to be negative things out there. Believe in yourself and stay strong. I think it opens you up to endless possibilities.

Love, Todd Todd Love,

child with a guide dog) are just a few of those examples. Todd writes from the heart about what he struggled with as a kid. He weaves his experiences through another book, “It’s Okay to Make Mistakes” because Todd knows what it’s like to be made fun of. He didn’t raise his hand in class because he was fearful of making a mistake. Todd is reaching children across a diverse spectrum including the LGBTQ+ community. “Some families have two moms or two dads,” is a page in “The Family Book” and earned him a spot on the Banned Book List, which Todd is proud of. “I know a lot of kids who have two moms or two dads. They like to see themselves represented in a book just like everyone else. I wanted to make kids know that no matter what your family looks like, your family matters, and you matter.” Todd’s Youtube channel, Todd TV, has as many as 700,000 views. Although he uses social media for his read-aloud and fun videos with his dogs, he makes a point to encourage everyone to stay true to themselves on and off their devices. “If you were to meet me in person, I’m the same person that wrote the books and says, ‘Love Todd.’ . . . Social media is the same way. You need to stay true to who you are.” He recognizes that sometimes a few pictures and words can help kids and adults understand something better — even something they thought they knew before. Todd continues to spread love, kindness, and self-acceptance through his children’s books. His hopes for the future are for things to return to normal and for people to simply get along. “Life is hard enough without so many other things thrown at you. And of course, I hope that there’s enough pizza for everybody in the world and macaroni and cheese for me.” Todd’s new book, “Monster Macaroni and Cheese Party,” will be released in 2023. FASTFORWARD

MAY-JUNE 2022 15

Art HeadSpace San Domenico School ART TEACHER Carina Ybarra

Theresa Guo, Junior

Sheila Han, Sophomore

Manny Lowery, Senior Emma Zhu, 9th Grade

Evan Ford, Junior Kiyomi Bouffard, Freshman

PROUD TO SPONSOR STUDENT ART MON—SAT 10AM -6PM Sun 11AM - 4PM 415-457-2787 1138 FOURTH STREET SAN RAFAEL WWW.RILEYSTREET.COM

Let Us Do The Shopping For You From organic produce and local dairy products to pantry staples and supplements, you’ll ﬁnd all of your favorites from Good Earth Natural Foods in our online store. Contactless curbside pick up available, as well as delivery in select areas.

To get started, visit us at shop.genatural.com, and: CREATE YOUR ACCOUNT All you need is an email address and password.

BUILD YOUR ORDER

Browse by category or search for speciﬁc items.

SELECT YOUR PICK UP/DELIVERY TIME Same day time slots usually available.

CHECKOUT Our team of dedicated Good Earthlings will carefully pick your order.

Kid Sistr

By Semira Robinson Junior, Phillips Academy Andover

he upbeat blare of Kid Sistr playing tribute to their (surprise) younger sisters is enough to raise the heartbeat of most people inclined towards a satisfying mix of alternative rock n roll, pop, and the smooth voices of truly talented singers. We chatted with Becca, Sarah, and Sable who make up the promising band, each one of them skilled and suited to be powerful role models to young people everywhere. The band is bonded by much more than their older sister status, pointing to a deep level of understanding based in their shared experiences in the music industry they explained to us. In their preteen years Becca and Sarah met in a program called School of Rock, not unlike the famous movie starring Jack Black. As some of the only girl instrumentalists at School of Rock, they made fast friends and the band was finalized years later in college when Sable, their self-declared Chick FilA sauce, attended the same program as Sarah. Their ease with each other is evident, with joking and fond remarks prevalent among the trio, it seems their friendship is a special one. As women in the music industry, they’ve found community in each other, and their vulnerability in sharing their experiences

20 FASTFORWARD 18 FASTFORWARD

MARCH 2022

MAY-JUNE 2022

L to r: Sara Keden (bassist), Sabel (guitarist), and Rebecca Webster (drummer).

and identities with the world is meaningful to many fans. Sarah described creating in an all-female environment as getting “to experience the privilege of…walking into a room and they’re just people that are like you…people that understand your experience…[that have a] telepathic level of understanding.” This intimate understanding bleeds into their songs, each one hauntingly relatable to any American Gen-Z teenager. Their messaging is explicitly impactful and beautiful, in that it makes people feel seen. Their skill in reaching people lies within their lyricism, painting everyday scenes like in “Tourist” when they sing, “Torn up ballet shoes, The smell of velvet, The mezzanine view.” Their lyrics connect with the teenage soul. We can see ourselves in their messaging to us, to all young people regardless of gender as the band stated. They describe coming of age in a plethora of different lights like in what may be this reporter’s favorite “Little Sister Song” when they sing “Piper takes the train to school with a mirror and her Chapstick in hand, She used to be a plain Jane but now she looks like Marilyn.” Kid Sistr’s recent success has been found on Tik Tok, a video sharing platform that has caught the attention of both young and elderly

Photo by Chris R Photo

audiences. Their humor, dynamic fashion sense, and of course musical talent has garnered them a platform of over 189,000 followers. Sarah noted that when it comes to Tik Tok, “there’s like no science to it.” So instead of seeking to crack a mystical marketing code Sarah, Becca, and Sable showcase their personalities on Tik Tok and simply have fun. In browsing their page, the joy they bring each other is evident. Their favorite videos riff from childhood favorites like “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World and Twilight.” In videos like these the girls insert themselves into popular scenes from the movies, either in conversation with canonical characters or recreating the infamous vampire baseball scene, while filming was mostly Becca running around “the end of my street with a baseball bat.” Overall, the band’s Instagram, Tik Tok, and even Twitter are a window into their lives where they sandwich music material with fun. Kid Sistr’s songs are manifestations of love and displays of true understanding through their use of detailed storylines between the words of their songs. Stay current with Kid Sistr by following their TikTok @kidsistrband and their instagram @kid_sistr.

Climate Change It’s for real...

TAKE ACTION —LIKE— YOUR WORLD DEPENDS ON IT By Sarah Goody Junior, Redwood High School

was in 6th grade when I first learned about the climate crisis. Even at that age, I wondered why I hadn’t been exposed to the crisis earlier. I felt like the world had been keeping a big, dark secret from me, and I wished I had known about it sooner. Should I have blamed

the adults around me? It seemed like they were just trying to protect my youthful innocence and probably didn’t know what to say. But shouldn’t they have let me know how our climate was changing? I mean, how do you explain wildfires and hurricanes to kids anyway? When addressing the climate crisis with children, I believe you have to get to the root of the problem and share with them the reality of how climate change impacts them and how they can act to address the problem. Once I started taking action my-

self, I realized how many young people were passionate about this topic. Beyond that, I realized the special power that we have, and the creativity and passion we bring to the climate movement. I also realized just how important it is to educate youth about the topics affecting our lives and to provide us with resources to take action and fight for a better future. We can not hide our children from this crisis forever, therefore why not start educating us about it now, so we have the opportunity to take action before it’s too late? By educating youth and fostering youth activism from a young age, we can teach the next generation that we are powerful and that we have the capability to change the world. I did not grow up in a household where youth activism was something we talked about. In fact, I didn’t even know what activism was until I started doing it. I see how this affected my childhood and confidence. When I first learned about climate change, I felt like I couldn’t do anything because I had never been taught that I had power or that my words or actions could facilitate change. As a child, society doesn’t allow me to vote until I am 18, and adults routinely tell me I shouldn’t worry about politics or world issues because that’s what adults are supposed to do. Even though it shouldn’t be the youth’s responsibility to take on these issues, I believe that by teaching kids about activism from

PROUD TO SUPPORT ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION.

a young age it installs confidence in us and the idea that we have the power to make a difference on the issues they are passionate about. In a world of Disney princesses and pop stars, the youth climate movement gives kids realistic, strong, powerful role models to aspire to. We should be uplifting the voices of young climate activists in our households so our children can see themselves reflected in powerful leaders. When I was younger, everything was centered around my favorite Disney princess: Cinderella. Even at age two, I was deeply affected by modern beauty standards. I believed that I wasn’t beautiful because my hair wasn’t blonde and my eyes weren’t blue, and that all I needed in life was to find a prince charming. By bringing the messages of youth climate activists into households we can teach children to value helping others over finding a prince, and that there is no perfect depiction of beauty. It is extremely important for kids, especially young girls to grow up with strong role models like the young people leading the global climate movement. The coronavirus has amplified the need to educate children about the existential threats that climate change poses on humanity and the importance of fostering activism in young children. This pandemic has shown us that it is possible for communities to come together and take action quickly to avoid disaster. We saw how when faced with the threat of the coronavirus, government officials were able to take monumentous actions like shutting down state borders and ordering shelter in place in a matter of days. This shows that it is possible for governments to mobilize quickly to stop the climate crisis. If government officials and leaders truly cared about saving society from the climate crisis they could work together to take urgent action to stop the emergency as they did with COVID19. We only have a short period of time to take action to reverse climate change before we hit a tipping point where our world will forever be damaged. It is time to educate and utilize one of our best resources — our youth — to bring attention to this crisis as our futures are the ones at stake. We need to teach all children about the importance of fighting for a just, equitable, green future. You can’t keep the climate crisis from them forever, so why not start getting them involved and letting them have a say in what happens while there’s still hope.

Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District l Central Marin Sanitation District l Novato Sanitary District Sewerage Agency of Southern Marin l Sausalito-Marin City Sanitary District l Tiburon Sanitary District

To report a polluter call 1-800-SAV-R-BAY

By Camron McDonald Novato High School

The Team: Top, left to right: Jaliyah Cook, Sarah Williams, Dominiq Austin, Camron McDonald, Raymone Reed and Tayana Bland. Bottom left to right: Brenda Lara, Bella Lucky, Mykolas Vilatis, Mason Le and Briana Zuniga.

Scaling Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Curriculum In California Public libraries

A WAY OUT OF NO WAY

The Lost Stories of Marin City Workers at the Marin Shipyard during WWII Joseph James, Rodessa Battle, Annie Small and Rev. Leon Samuels

ehind every winning team is a support system — often it is mightier than a lion’s roar. In early December 8th, 1941, our country joined the second World War on the day after Pearl Harbor was attacked. In three-and-a-half years, Marinship built and launched fifteen Liberty ships, sixteen fleet oilers, and 62 tankers, all of which were much larger than a football field, totaling 93 ships. These vessels helped the United States in their WW II victory. Marinship workers were a group of dedicated people — both black and white, men and women, who spent day and night building ships. However, the black workers of Marinship were given half the union benefits that whites had. Women weren’t credited for their hard work in welding. Outraged by this inequality, Joseph James spoke up and became the voice behind the echo. His leadership inspired a change within the worker’s union. Joseph James made sure that black workers were given the same benefits as whites and were treated equally at Marinship. I learned about the untold stories of four African American workers participating in a Writing, Sound & VR project that enabled us to read and retell these stories. We named the project “A Way Out of No Way.” The project was composed of three separate tracks: Storyboard, Music, and VR modeling. As a writer, one strives to be openminded and original. Writing is a difficult art form and I like that it can always be 20

FASTFORWARD

MAY-JUNE 2022

improved. The choice of words and the way they are phrased is the base of any draft in a project. Having more than one draft can be stressful on the writer, but it is good for the final product of the story. The storyboard team wrote several drafts for monologues, dialogues, and narrations. This was no easy task. Sometimes drafts were too long, too short, or had false information. However, each draft could be revised into something much stronger and impactful.

The black workers of Marinship were given half the union benefits that whites had. We assisted the music team by researching household objects such as furniture, ice boxes, telephones, and daily life in Marin City in the 1940s. We learned the black community in Marin City was very tight. Neighbors would help each other by watching over each other’s children, doing simple favors, and treating one another like family. This research allowed us to provide reference for the characters; how they talked, how they felt, and how they lived, all to give the audience an authentic sense of life working in the Marinship. The music track faced lots of difficult work including mixing, engineering, and editing vocals of everyone who stepped foot into the studio. The music track began by coming up with catchy lyr-

ics which rhyme and tell a little about the characters and the things they had to face. One of the songs made by the music track is called “Wonder Women Workers” and is about all the women that worked in Marinship. The song itself focuses on Annie Small and Rodessa Battle who worked on the shipyard and were residents of Marin City. While working in the studio, we had to break through the nervousness of coming face to face with the mic. Creating a music track, we had to patiently wait for the writers to revise narrations, monologue, and dialogues. In less than two weeks, most drafts were finalized and ready to be brought to the studio. The VR track acted as the anchor within the project. The participants in VR first began by learning the Blender software which has some confusing mechanics to people new to 3D-modeling, animation, and simulation. The VR team became familiar with Blender by making simple objects such as furniture, vehicles, and welding tools. The animations for the final product couldn’t begin without the completion of the storyboard and the recorded voiceovers for the dialogue, monologue, and narrations. Although the class was a bit challenging, its group members were able to easily become accustomed to the tasks at hand and proved computer science can be fun and entertaining. The experience was definitely a very unique one. Along with hard work and fun we learned a lot about history and working together.

MARIN HUMANE SOCIETY

A leader and her team with a cause close to their hearts

By Lily Leone Marin Academy

icture a team of intrepid volunteers driving from Marin to New Mexico, across highways, and through deserts to bring a lost dog home. Imagine the journey it must have taken for one dog to travel so far and the joy felt of reconnecting it to its family — “tears all around” for all at Marin Humane who helped make it happen. At Marin Humane, the joy of animal-human connection drives a dedicated staff of remarkable people like Lisa Bloch, Director of Marketing & Communications, helping animals and people alike.

For Bloch, this work is in her blood. From an early age, the importance of giving back to the community was instilled by her mother, who served as the executive director of the LA food bank. Bloch “was always aware of the importance of helping others and even the possibility of making a career out of it.” She can’t imagine working anywhere else. Able to channel a lifelong passion for community service and love of animals, Marin Humane is a natural fit. After all, Bloch adopted all her pets. She notes, “I always had this fondness, but I didn’t think I could make a career out of it.” In the process of doing communications and marketing for other nonprofits and moving to Marin, Bloch saw the job available at Marine Humane, and the rest is history. For Bloch her work is “the best of both worlds. And it’s much easier to do a job when you believe in what you’re doing. For me, when I believe in something, I do a better job marketing and communicating about something close to my heart.” Every day Bloch is moved by seeing the connection between people and animals— how they enrich our lives. From animal-assisted therapy,

providing dogs during finals or after a crisis, helping struggling pet parents, to disaster relief, the shelters provide essential resources that benefit both humans and animals and provide a voice for the voiceless. Gathering support is the backbone of what Bloch does and the foundation of a successfully running humane society. In recent years, social media has been key to generating buzz publicly and reaching out to those who might not otherwise be aware of the Marin Humane’s mission. Working at Marin Humane requires flexibility constantly readjusting, but the work is rewarding. Bloch notes of her workplace, “There are so many amazing, wonderful, happy things that go on. I think we’re lucky because we have a lot of animal lovers. And we have a lot of people who respect animals and treat them well. We see that with students and kids. It’s amazing to me.” Marin Humane takes in dogs, cats, birds, turtles, snakes, and other reptiles, ducks, geese, goats, rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, mice, and more, making for a bright and welcoming community for all creatures. Lisa sees many powerful stories, animals going to amazing families, finding forever homes. She notes, “It’s a place of hope, a place of sort of new beginnings.” Bloch’s marketing work perfectly captures the immense value and infinite opportunities Marin Humane provides in their new tagline, “Lives made happy,” emphasizing their work helping animals and people connect. Now more than ever is the best time to understand the pet adoption process. With surging adoption rates occurring during COVID-19 lockdowns in spring of 2020, continuing forward, the shelters. So many people wanted to adopt, and there weren’t enough animals, a historic first in Marin Humane’s history. During the lockdown, they could not get animals transferred in, which required collaboration between regions, transport vans carrying pets across the state and country, a phenomenal demonstration of teamwork between different shelters in a time of great struggle. High interest in behavior and training classes persist, with still more people wanting to adopt. When most people think about pet ownership, they think first of pet stores but informed consumers need to challenge that preconception and always check the

Humane Society first. Bloch gives an inside point of view to the adoption process. Most people adopt from their website, but another option is petfinder.com, which shows animals available in shelters throughout your region. Those looking to adopt then work with an adoption coordinator, which provides more information about what type of household in which the pet would best thrive. After adoption, Marin Humane offers a session on what to expect and check-in after, in addition to one free behavior consultation and training. A key thing to remember throughout the adoption process is to have an open mind about the type of pet you imagine for yourself. If we get so caught up in how an animal looks, we may overlook other animals who might be a perfect fit. Bloch told us, “I’ve always had big dogs my whole life. And after I lost my last big dog, I happened to meet a little dog. I thought, I’m not a little dog person, but he’s a sweetheart and has been wonderful. I’m so glad that I didn’t turn him away just because he didn’t fit the criteria.” When it comes to pet adoption, having an open mind is essential. While the process requires patience, Bloch added, “If you wait, you know that that perfect animal will come along.” Even if you’re not adopting an animal, there are always ways to get involved with Marin Humane. Bloch and other remarkable employees of this nonprofit are proud to make a difference for people and animals. At any level, there are opportunities for people from all walks of life to engage with Marin Humane and its pets, including fundraising drives, clubs that focus on advocacy, and special events. Bloch notes, it is “amazing; little kids doing a lemonade stand to older kids working on projects.” Young people can also work with Marin Humane in legislation around domestic and farm animals, an area that many shelters don’t serve. Marin Humane also supports less well-funded shelters. Check out the Marin Humane website or their social media and consider making even small donations to help keep this amazing network running to provide essential resources to pets, pet owners, and wildlife alike. In the constant ebb and flow of the natural world, Bloch describes, “Things are always brewing about animals and people and how we coexist. You can rely on us to be a resource.” Visit: www.marinhumane.org FASTFORWARD

MAY-JUNE 2022 21

SMALL SCHOOL

BIG IMPACT COLLEGE PREP HIGH SCHOOL SINCE 1981

Confidence, Creativity & Academic Excellence

Go beyond the mountains of busywork and endless, repetitive homework. Our classes focus on engagement and depth of understanding.

Rolling Admissions through 2022 Schedule your campus tour today!

www.themarinschool.org/visit

MTS

SERIOUS LEARNING. SERIOUSLY FUN. R EG I S TE R FO R A TO U R MOUNT TAMALPAIS SCHOOL KINDERGARTEN THROUGH 8TH GRADE MTTAM.ORG

22 FASTFORWARD

MAY-JUNE 2022

SPONSORING OLD MILL SCHOOL GARDEN Each month Sloat Garden Center offers a $250 garden grant to a new Marin County school.

Garden Observations “I like the garden because you can put pretty things in it.” — Alexi “Gardens look beautiful. I like flowers and the bees. It is relaxing to lay down and calm yourself.”— Rio “Gardens feel magical.” — Teagan “I like gardens because butterflies and bees come.” — West “I like gardens because bees get honey from the flowers.” — Grayson “I find cool things to eat in gardens like sourgrass and vegetables.” — Hannah “I like gardens you can make fairy houses.”— Emma Rose “I like gardens because they have horses and pigs.”— David “I like gardens because I like butterflies and the bees and I also like flowers like daisies and roses.”—Lilah “I like gardens because sometimes there are rainbows over them.” — Larkin To learn more about our work with Bay Area school gardens, visit www.sloatgardens.com

Mill Valley: 401 Miller Ave. 415-388-0365 & 657 E..Blithedale Ave. 415-388-0102 Kentfield: 700 Sir Francis Drake Blvd. 415-454-0262 Novato: 2000 Novato Blvd. 415-897-2169

FASTFORWARD MAY-JUNE 2022

White Hill Middle School

are pushing into my scalp and my ankles are tied with ribbons. I take a breath as the music starts. My steps are exact and repeated. I fill in between the big movements with small transitions. I jump, extending into poses captured in air. As I descend, my feet fall into place as my heels hit the floor. The light is bright around me, and the music provides me with a waltzing rhythm. My arms push the air away from me as I turn. I finish at last. Feeling good, I dance. Ceramics By Molly Ehrlinspiel I’m sculpting my imagination with my hands. It’s very exhilarating. I can smell wet clay. I can see the sculptable substance obtaining a new formation — my choice of formation. I can hear people giggling and talking at other tables. I can feel the squishy wet clay in my hands. I love every part of it. From the dry cracked clay on my hands, to seeing my pieces all done.

Charles Smith, 8th Grade

FastForward visited Katie Frank’s 7th Grade students to conduct a writing workshop. Drawing By Keira Flores When I draw, I create lives, worlds, and stories. I draw people and give them identities. I draw what they’ve been through — their stories, their personalities, and their emotions. I think of worlds, worlds set in different dimensions and different timelines. I think of their relationships — who they love, hate, or envy. When I draw their lives, it’s like seeing flashes of missing memories. It’s my job to put the memories back together. Mountain Biking By Jax Lamott The sun is beating down on me. I must shift gears to make it easier to pedal the long steep mountain. I can hear the rocks and dirt hit my bike as I stall on the trail. My fingers are blistered as I clamp the handlebars, and my legs are killing me. At first, I feel like giving up, but I am going to make it to the top. Finally, I reach the top. I feel the cool breeze in my face. I can see the Golden Gate Bridge and the beach. I can hear the waves crashing into the rocks. Now for the downhill. The wind is blowing past as I zoom down. I can’t lose focus for I could fall and crash. I flow with the 24 FASTFORWARD

MAY-JUNE 2022

trail, twisting as it twists, and turning as it turns. Then..screech! I come to a stop. I’ve made it to the bottom safely. Dance By Evelyn Rose That burst of positive energy that fills me is a feeling like no other. Dancing gives me an opportunity to have this feeling. Dancing allows people to be free and express themselves. When I dance, I feel like I can do anything, like I’m unstoppable. I think that is what keeps me going. Dance can be hard but that feeling is unbeatable. Baseball By Griffin Stuart Crack! The sound the bat makes as the ball hits it. I run to see the ball travel farther and farther. It hits the ground as I turn to second. It’s like I had put wheels on my feet. My coach is yelling at me to go to third. The ball is whizzing past my head. As I dive into third, I hear “Safe!” Joy goes through my whole body. Ballet By Annie Ehm A wooden bar frames the room, mirrors reach from the ceiling to the floor. Pins

Lacrosse By Royal Safanda I’m on the field when I hear the refs blowing their whistles on the play. I can feel the sweat dripping down my neck and onto my back. I see my ball bouncing into the net, splashing as it hits. I can smell the hot turf. It isn’t pleasant but when I smell it, I know I’m going to have fun. When I play this game I always get butterflies even though I’ve been playing for four years. Tennis By Graham Meredith-Scharf Bam! The ball hits the racquet ricocheting back from where it came over the net. It flies like a falcon. A falcon being hit back and forth. The stomp of my shoe on the ground as I complete a perfect backhand. The ball twirls in the air, spinning. It hits the court, almost out. A clean shot. I won the match! Friends By Sloane Korty Screaming and laughing until we can’t breathe. Walking around town at night, running from store to store. The brisk cold air whipping past our faces as we sit talking for hours. The secrets run around like mice going through a field. I’m happier than I could ever be with my friends. Our late-night walks feel like hours. I can smell the cold air and dead silence of the neighborhood. Nothing feels more adventurous than hopping on the bus and seeing where it takes us.

Things We Know to be True Ms. Katie Frank’s students

Taryn Creedon, 8th Grade

Swimming By Cole Taplin The freezing plunge into the ice-cold water; for a second you feel free as you glide through the water, then you surface and the race starts. As you forget your surroundings, you push yourself through the water to get to the end and win. As I hear the sound of the water, I feel the power to push forward and swim as fast as I can. Skateboarding By Olmec Estrada I try to balance my body as I get ready for my trick. I test my board by wiggling my toes. My board is loosening up so I can get a good flick. The raging flooring vibrates as my wheels hit each rock. I push my back foot down and pop the board up. My foot rolls to the left and my board does a barrel roll. I jump as high as I can, and more. Then I put my feet down on the board and land in style. Theater By Agnes Shimon The roar of the crowd lifts my adrenaline off its feet. The thoughts of doubt weigh me down, but I hit them out of the way. A smile comes across my face, I jump on the stage, sing my loudest voice and glare into the blinding spotlight. I run off the stage breathless. The satisfaction and accomplishment I feel is therapeutic. Skiing By Millie Oelman It’s freezing, slightly icy, and I can’t see five feet a head of myself. The snow is making my mask wet and my breath is making fog. I slowly go down, sliding on the slush. Looking down, I see rocks on each side of me. Now I only have one option down the slope. I carefully watch where I am going. Basketball By Cara Peel Flying down the court. I feel the air parting to make way. The ball leaving and greeting my hands once again. I stop and

Esme Charles, 8th Grade

look at my options. Who shall I pass to? I see an open teammate. Letting go of the ball, I pass it. I continue to fly down the court to the basket. I get the ball passed to me. I shoot for a three-pointer. I jump just in front of the line and the ball shoots out of my hands. My feet meet the ground. I stand back and watch the ball fly towards the basket and land in the hoop. The silence is no longer. I hear my family screaming and my coach’s silent cheer. My team flings themselves on to me. The Golden Ticket By Zoe Chiaramonte The excitement is burning up like batteries in my stomach. I put on the last details of my costume, going over my lines for the last time. I hear those three words...”Places in 5”. I rush out of the dressing room to hear Tech reminding us to turn off our phones. I take a deep breath. There are a hundred people out there waiting to watch the play. I hear the music starting, and with a big smile, I run onto the stage. The bright lights hit my face like a thousand suns, hundreds of eyes watching. I’m usually nervous around people but all of that disappears. I open the fake candy bag in my hand, smiling, and pull out a piece of golden foil. Holding it up in the air, I shout “I have a golden ticket!”

In life you have to work hard if you want success. Nothing lasts forever. Hard work beats talent. Social Media causes kids to feel bad sometimes. I have some good friends. I would rather be optimistic and fail than be negative and succeed. Dogs are the best. War tears apart families. Practice makes perfect. Success will come if you work for it. People think differently. Everything is possible. Darkness is the parallel of light. What you put out in the world will in some way come back. True friends will try to listen no matter what. I am in control of only what I affect. If I give it my all, I will get a grade I deserve. Scoring an impressive goal in soccer feels so good. Her smile lights up when I see her. If we listened to each other more, the world would be better. Friendship requires trust. Leaving is hard. Pushing your limits allows you to get better. Cate Burch, 8th Grade

Just Kidding By Allie Pack-Kelly I hate the phrase “Just kidding.” It’s what people say after they say something that hurts. But you know they meant it. Deep down, they did. But it’s okay because they were “just kidding.” Continued on Page 26

FASTFORWARD MAY-JUNE 2022

White Hill Middle School Continued from Page 25...

Coding By Aiden Podesta When I’m coding it can be really challenging. I can get stuck trying get one thing to work for hours, and maybe, even days. Eventually I will run the script and it does work. It’s the most rewarding feeling ever. Coding is also just a lot of fun. You can make anything you want. It feels good to finish something you’ve been working on for months. Swimming By Chandler Mar Diving into the water, I feel that cold shock all over my body. I swim like a bullet under water, low drag, high speed. As I finish the first lap, I do a flip-turn off the wall to go into my second lap. I push off the wall and gasp for air. Then I notice no one’s beside me as I touch the wall and finish the race. Cooking By Teya Strong The oil sizzles on the pan. The knife slices in one singular motion. I reach for the salt and sprinkle it into the pan. New ideas whip around my mind – cinnamon, onions, cumin, rice. The smells swirl together. It becomes a rhythm. The smell of garlic fills the room as I mix it with the onions. The rice goes on the plate topped with a red and yellow sauce, with garlic chicken on the side. I step back and admire it. Then it’s gone. An Old Obsession By Hank Jackson Once an old console is turned on, I can’t help being glued to it. Its old charm hooks me and other geeks into a whole new reality outside the one we live in now. Games that embrace creativity, games with edge, games with strategic puzzle-solving problems, soothing and calm games, games with adventure and exploration. This feeling I know. This feeling, its nostalgic. Some of these games were around before me. But this feeling…I feel like I was there. These magic boxes have been around for 50 years now. So, you should at least try it. I’ll be waiting. Reading By Gipsy Gregor Flipping through pages leading me into the mind of another. Characters talking to each other, going to different places. I’m interested to read the next chapter to find out what happens. Something dramatic happens. I’m hooked. Reading the pages, waiting for the reactions of the characters. Finally, a solution. I’m intrigued by how the character handles the situation. 26

FASTFORWARD MAY-JUNE 2022

Things aren’t going too well. Oh no. The book has ended. I feel satisfied and start the first page of a different reality. Skiing By Sophie Macdonald As my ski’s pick up speed, I fall. I fall into the zone. I hear nothing. I don’t register how fast I’m going, only what’s in front of me. My body goes on auto- pilot and I feel like I’m watching myself from above. In that moment my body is one step ahead of my mind making decisions for me. I know how to avoid a rock before my mind does. I know how to get the right amount of air to land a perfect daffy. When I hit the ground, I feel the shock reverberate throughout my body, starting with my shins, stinging from impact. Then, ending with my head as I re-enter the zone. Only does this moment end when I stop at the lift, ready for more. Art By Juliet Stucky I have a picture planted in my mind of what I want to create. I make a sketch with my pencil flying across the paper. Then I go in with my black and red pencils. Everything is going great. But now, the hardest part is blending. The black is too dark. I hate how it’s turning out but before I give up, I remember the most important part… highlights! I grab my white posca pen and my hand is tingling with pain. I’m too close to stop now. I finally add my signature at the bottom. I could explode with happiness because I think this is my best drawing yet! Ballet Shaiya Michelle I move to the rhythm of the beat, blocking out everything else in my mind. The music softly unfolds as I point my toes. Then the music gets faster, and I turn to the sharp beat. I see a whirlwind of colors as I spin. I don’t stop. I can’t. My breath gets more rapid. And then it ends. I land and everything is clear again.

Skiing By Logan Thrush Standing over the cliff, deciding if I should jump. Finally, feeling I had been standing there for over an hour, whoosh! I feel it on my legs and then I lose my balance. I get up off the snowbank and feel the adrenalin pumping through my body. I keep on going, trying until I finally land it. I love skiing. Basketball By Keaton Thongnopeus Bzzzz… it’s the end of the 3rd quarter. Our team was down by 15. We all knew we needed a big comeback to win the game. I knew that soon it would be in my hands. My heart was pounding harder than the ball hitting the floor. Down by 2, 3 seconds left, coach drew up the play – I had the final shot. I get the ball, my hands are shaking with sweat. 3, 2, 1, bzzzz. Game over. We won. The crowd roars. But all I can think about is how good that burger will taste. Cooking By Keane Olshansky A fire burns, small and hot, concealed by a metal pan ensuring the light and sea of flames doesn’t get out of hand. The knife glides effortlessly through fruits and vegetables, puncturing the skin and revealing the inside. Different textures and unique patterns push against my skin as I pick up the ingredients and set them to the side. Oil crackles and spits in a hot pan trying to escape but rightfully fails and calms down as more ingredients are thrown in. Tessa Davis, 8th Grade

So Happy Together!

MARIN COUNTY

FAIR

¡Tan Felices Juntos!

LA FERIA DEL CONDADO DE MARIN

ALL OUTDOORS! TODO AL AIRE LIBRE

Free Concerts • Carnival Rides • Fireworks • Farm Animals

June 30 is Kids FREE Day for everyone 12 and under! MarinFair.org

June 30 - July 4, 2022

Art • Agriculture • Community

30 de junio- 4 de julio

Arte • Agricultura • Comunidad

ARCHIE WILLIAMS HIGH SCHOOL ComAcad Communications Academy

Front, l to r: Greg Doherty (teacher), Izzy Brisco Schofield, Kino Redfield, Finn Wayland, Evajoy Sotnick, Sasha Yovino, Percy Daunell, Jac Craig, Izzi Lipari Maxson, Francie Salle (teacher) and Morgan Paar. Second row, l to r: Cole Laroche, Angel Amador, Jake Witchell, Finn Corr, Leandro Coppolla, Bella Faye, Indigo Herrera-Meade, Abby Cochran, Tristan Swain and James Lavaroni. Back row, l to r: Simon Holt, Dexter Hixon, Olivia Pananides, Oliver John, Eli Whitman, Karim Al-Jamal, Tony Heffernan, Wiley Raffael, Achiles Das, Sascha Nikolai, Dyson Lapre, Bonnabelle Powell. Not pictured: Reina Bolaris and Briana Woods.

The Communications Academy at Archie Williams High School, better known as ComAcad, is a two-year program for juniors and seniors, which combines courses in Digital Communications, English and Social Studies. Students work in production teams to create two to three projects a year, ranging from Political Advertisements, Original Shorts, A Showcase of Community Non-Profits, and Documentaries. Students work on their projects in all three of their courses. From script development to audio engineering, blue-screen recording to audio/video editing, our slogan keeps us going: Everybody Teaches, Everybody Learns. “I really like this program because the teachers are really good and they give lots of freedom with the assignments. Making movies is also surprisingly fun. If you don’t like being on screen you don’t have to be. There is something for everyone in this fun, accepting community. — Kino Redfield “ComAcad is an amazing program that has made my junior year joyfully chaotic.” — Jac Craig “ComAcad is the perfect class for developing the ability to work with others and understand industry standard film making skills. The teachers are the best at Archie Williams, with a curriculum that flows well and keeps you engaged. ComAcad teaches mandatory skills for existing in the modern media productions space while also tackling US history, economics, the humanities, and AP Composition. ComAcad accomplishes so much more than other classes by facilitating a consistent and fantastic group environment with shared classes and great teachers. — Dexter Hixon “ComAcad is a wonderful community with some of the best teachers physically possible. In joining ComAcad you guarantee that you will have a good community of like minded students and three awesome classes taught by three powerful bastions of the land who will teach you not only the subjects associated with them but also countless other vital or useful life skills like how to do cartwheels and take notes.” — Karim Al-Jamal

DEDICATED TO SERVING THE COMMUNITY WE LIVE IN Two Convenient Locations For Your Shopping Needs

San Rafael 515 3rd Street • 415-454-8912

www.unitedmarkets.com

San Anselmo 100 Redhill Ave. • 415-456-1271

FastForward | May - June 2022