Bits & Pieces
Viva La Mexico!
O
n September 16, 1810, a ringing church bell called a nation to arms and began the Mexican War of Independence. In honor of the historical event, Mexico celebrates its Independence Day every year on September 16. Locally, you can join in the fun at the Fiesta de Independencia on September 17, 1–7 p.m., at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts in Santa Rosa. Experience a traditional fiesta—the authentic food, colorfully costumed dances, and vivacious music, including performances by Mariachi Barragan, Banda Toro, and Sonora Tropicana—for free. Go to lutherburbankcenter.org for more information. ¶
Everyday Apiaries
T
here’s been a lot of buzz about bees dying. And for good reason, say scientists: These pollinators keep many species of plants alive. Their role is so important that some concerned folks are raising bees in their backyard. If your family is thinking of joining their ranks, go to the “Backyard Beekeeping” class on September 2, 2–3:30 p.m., at the Cloverdale Regional Library in Cloverdale. Find out about the best honeybees to buy, how much money and time you can expect to invest, and helpful resources, too. See sonomacounty.libcal.com. ¶
“A” Is for Alligator
W
hen we’re couch potatoes, we may call ourselves slothful. But are sloths themselves actually lazy? Find out at Classroom Safari, where local wildlife educator Bonnie Cromwell will display and discuss the attributes of a variety of exotic animals, including a baby sloth, and, if they are in the mood, a wallaby, porcupine, serval, fennec fox, and an alligator. Kids will have the opportunity to get up close to the animals while Cromwell shares interesting facts about their habits, physical characteristics, and habitats. The free event will happen on September 2, 2–3 p.m., at the Central Santa Rosa Library in Santa Rosa. To find out more about Cromwell, go to the Archives section of sonomafamilylife.com and see our award-winning profile of her, “Have Zoo, Will Travel,” in the November 2014 issue. ¶
8 SonomaFamilyLife
Check out exotic animals at Classroom Safari
September 2017 www.sonomafamilylife.com