Gold for New 49ers!

I got out my crusty miner costume for San Lorenzo Park’s 2024 49er Days, meeting with six groups of 4^th graders. I told them about life beneath canvas while searching for gold and also shared my mostly true bear story about Bill, Terry and Michael. Suffice it to say that Terry always survives the bear’s panicked retreat and did so again — six times! I thank able organizers Julia and Fiona for including me in the event!

P.S. I might have mentioned “Joaquin’s Gold”. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFRCT4N/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1MUHK5KC819MC&keywords=Joaquin%27s+Gold+and+other+tales+of+Old+California&qid=1642121544&sprefix=joaquin%27s+gold+and+other+tales+of+old+california%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-1

The Civil War after Covid

Battle is joined.

Teachers and re-enactors created a dynamic civics classroom at San Lorenzo Park on May 20th. The students of Chalone Peaks Middle School participated with energy and intelligence. They emerged with experiences they’ll remember their entire lives, lessons about honor, sacrifice and the price of freedom for all.  

We began our day at King City Cemetery by honoring Civil War veterans buried there. Students read “Shiloh”, a great poem by Herman Melville. President Lincoln offered remarks about the difficult, crucial service the soldiers rendered. A rifle volley, a hymn played by Chris Andrew and taps ended our ceremony. We then marched on to battles, seminars and the Gettysburg Address.

Ed Haskell took great photos of the day. Please enjoy his work and the efforts of our young people.

Confederates march

Anxious Confederates

Union soldiers fire.

Cannons fire.

Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth share stories about the lives of slaves.

Lincoln gathers his thoughts before delivering the Gettysburg Address.

The battle continues.

Brother kills brother.

Lincoln’s words uplift.

Beware! Take Care! He wants your head tonight!

The older kids are amused – Photo by Ed Haskell

The Headless Horseman, Tailypo and the Yeti – favorites all – visited San Lorenzo Park last Saturday eve for the annual Ghost Story gathering. There’s nothing like a campfire to get me going! The kids, both old and young, seemed to be amused! I thank the MCCARLM folks for inviting me to participate!

Ghosts at San Lorenzo Park

The MCARLM campfire and story-telling event down at San Lorenzo Park on October 25th  was great fun. Thanks to Raye Ann and Motoko for helping me present Amanda Miller’s spooky poem! I also got to share “Black Maggie’s Secret” around the campfire – the best home for any ghost story! Joaquin Murrieta rides again!