This is a non-profit fund-raising organization that helps many other non-profits, small schools and groups raise money. Many people involved with these groups have their own “teams” of walkers or runners that raise money before the race and then attend the race dressed in costumes or team shirts.

My daughter goes to New Horizon School & Learning Center in Santa Rosa, a very small school for kids 7-12 grades with learning disabilities. This fund-raising event is the schools main event for the whole year. Each student is encouraged to raise $100 each and to help find other businesses that will be sponsors. All of the teaching staff at the school is actively involved as well as many parents to reach a $30,000 goal. The Human Race overall goal for the whole area is $250,000. It is encouraging to see the heartfelt donations come in, sometimes in  $10 increments. Every bit counts. They also have a Restaurant Week where many local restaurants have volunteered to donate a certain percentage of their profits on one designated day to a particular group in the Human Race. New Horizon School has found Sweet River Grill & Bar in Coddingtown Mall and they have generously decided to give 15% of all proceeds from May 2 to the school.

I know in today’s economy, it seems like every time you turn around we’re asked to donate to something. It is truly sad times when we have fundraise for friends or family when their insurance doesn’t cover all of their care from an accident, illness or even worse, they’ve lost their insurance all together. Now we are fund-raising for schools, the Boy Scouts, your kid’s soccer team, band class, and on and on the list goes. But we all pull together and give what we can, some of us giving of our time as that is all we have to give. It is all appreciated.

For more info:
www.HumanRaceNow.org
New Horizon School fundraising page where you can donate directly to the school

Photos by Eric Chazankin

March 9 was the opening night for the play Cat on a Hot Tin Roof by Tennessee Williams. This play is the 1974 revised version dealing with  family characters and their sexuality, death, greed and alcoholism, all taking place on the night of Big Daddy’s 65th birthday party.

It’s been many years since I’ve seen the 1958 movie version of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof that starred Elizabeth Taylor and Paul Newman, so my recollections were hazy at best as to the differences between the two versions. Today there are many things that are ok to talk about openly  and language that is tolerated now that would not have been in the 50′s, so it was obvious as I watched the play what the differences were between the two.  Listening to my fellow seat mates discuss their opinions of the changes during the intermissions was also interesting when  comparing a classic done in a different way.

This play features Charles Seibert* as Big Daddy, Jenifer Cote as Maggie, Clint Campbell as Brick, Kate Brikley* as Big Mama, Tice Allison as Grooper, and Beth Deitchman as Mae.

Jenifer Cote as Maggie seems to have the lions share of the lines throughout the play, especially in the first scene where she is basically carrying on a conversation with herself as her husband Brick is working on getting drunk and not listening to her much. As the play progresses, other family members enter and leave the conversation  as we come to understand the dynamics of this big southern family. They are all dealing with their own various disappointment in life as they digest the information that the family patriarch Big Daddy is dying and how the estate may or may not be divided when he passes.

Charles Siebert, who is a famous theater, movie and TV star and director, plays Big Daddy. He is perfect for this role with his commanding voice and dominating presence. I could easily imagine him running a Southern plantation and this family. I thoroughly enjoyed his character and the whole play. 

*This actor appears through the courtesy of Actor’s Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the U.S.

6th Street Playhouse
Directed by Michael Fontaine.
For Mature Audiences
March 9-25, 2012
Tickets between $15-$32

 Historical Railroad Square in Downtown Santa Rosa.

Tickets provided in exchange for review

Photos by Eric Chazankin

Opening night of the play “The 39 Steps” at 6th Street Playhouse was sold out. We all were treated to a fast paced, hilarious show directed by Craig Miller, starring Adam Burkholder, Paul Huberty, Larry Williams, and April Krautner.

Having never seen the famous Alfred Hitchcock movie or the Tony Award winning Broadway play, I had no preconceived ideas of what the story was about. I was in for a treat. This comedic show with multiple characters played by the talented four person cast was non-stop from the second it started. Watching Paul Huberty and Larry Williams change characters right in front of your eyes by switching hats and accents (and sometimes clothes) was funny and convincing at the same time, two very talented guys. The “action” scenes were done well too, the train chase scene being my favorite.

This story was originally written in 1915 by Scottish author John Buchan, the first of five novels about an all action hero with a surprising knack for getting out of sticky situations. It was later adapted as a radio show, three movie versions, this comedic theatrical version which started in London and moved on to Broadway and a BBC TV series.

Interested in a good evening out? See this play from Jan. 6 -21 at 6th Street Playhouse. Tickets are between $10-25.

Historical Railroad Square in Downtown Santa Rosa

Tickets provided in exchange for review

Today,  New Year’s Eve,  I’m  reflecting on all that has gone on this past year. It has been a year of major changes for me. As a new way of life is emerging from the old thoughts, habits, perceptions and even living space, I look forward to the changes with hope and anticipation of the good that will emerge. Just as the baby ferns are emerging from the old crumbling wall, sometimes we have the chance to do the same in our lives.

I am thankful for all the wonderful friends that I have and for the opportunity to try to make a difference in this world, whether it’s through helping someone, teaching someone or just being a friend. Here’s to a new year and new opportunities!

photo by Eric Chazankin

The opening night theatrical performance of “A Christmas Story” was November 19^th at 6^th Street Playhouse. The director Bronwen Shears and the cast of seven children and four adults did a wonderful job telling this story, keeping the audience smiling throughout.

This play is based off of the classic motion picture A Christmas Story, which came out in 1983. The idea for the movie was taken from three short stories that were written by Jean Shepherd and published in Playboy magazine in the 60’s.

For those of you out there who haven’t heard of this story, seen the movie, or wondered where the saying, “you’ll shoot your eye out” or the infamous “leg lamp” came from, see this play and you’ll finally understand. For the rest of us,

Photo by Eric Chazankin

the story of 9 year old Ralphie Parker (played by John David Vozaitis) on a quest to get a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas and the daily life (sometimes very comical) surrounding him which involves his parents, younger brother and friends, is a trip down memory lane. The subplots involving Ralph’s parents & the “leg lamp,” the local school bully, and a various scenes from the schoolroom are all recreated on the stage. The story is told to us by the grown up Ralph (played by Mark Bradbury) as he remembers the best Christmas present ever.

This play is appropriate for all ages and is running through December 23.

Tickets are $15-$32
For more information
6th Street Playhouse close to the Historical Railroad Square in Downtown Santa Rosa

Tickets provided in exchange for review

Guest blog

Routine Maintenance: How To Get The Best Out of Your Workouts

Millions of us work out regularly, using free weights, Pilates, running or cardio, recreational sports or machine resistance. As with any such pursuit, one will benefit more by using proper technique. Too many of those who train with free or machine weights, lack the correct form, grip, breathing, or rest between sets, to maximize their workouts. Yet the little things mean so much. Attention to detail separates the most fit, from those who wonder why their results are not more evident.

Form Over Function

When you approach a barbell, work with dumbbells, or sit at a circuit training machine, be sure your posture is such that your back is not performing an inordinate part of the work. Maintain the appropriate posture throughout the exercise, do not suddenly arch or jerk your back during a movement. Lift as much as possible, for example, before military presses, squats, or upright rowing, with your legs to get into starting position. Keep your shoulders back, don’t slouch before or during a routine. It is important to keep your feet shoulder width apart, as it assures both balance, and symmetric movement. When you grip the weight, your hand and wrist should be parallel to the section of the barbell or dumbbell you are holding, such that you are not too over- or underhanded. One’s knuckles, hand and wrist should form a smooth, not bent line. Thumbs should be firmly closed around a bar or apparatus. During especially heavy movements such as squats, your weight should be balanced toward the balls of your feet, and not flat-footed, which exerts too much strain.

Every Breath You Take

Ideally you should inhale with the lifting or raising of weight, and exhale when lowering or relaxing the muscle. Breathe deeply while you exercise, to allow the chest cavity to take in the air you will need for stamina, and work the pectoral muscles that facilitate many motions. Breathe through your nose, as one’s chest cavity becomes more full in this manner. Between sets, continue deep, focused inhalation and exhalation, as the muscles are still working, and these are rest periods when oxygen intake is important for both muscle building and blood flow. When necessary, employ concerted puffs to assist with heavy squats or bench presses.

Water, Water Everywhere

Be sure to properly hydrate yourself before, during, and after your workout. You should drink your fluids every few minutes or sets, so your system will cool itself, and to provide energy. Take a bottle with you, rather than sipping from the fountain at a health club. You will drink more this way, your own bottle is more sanitary than a public fountain or cooler, and it allows you the option of a sports drink rather than water, if that is your preference. You should have plenty of energy, as it is best to have a meal or very nutritious snack no later than two hours before a strenuous workout.

The Rest Of  The Story

One should rest no more than 45 seconds between sets of the same exercise. A steady flow of blood to a muscle area, and a good “pump” to the region being worked, are keys to seeing results in terms of physique, measurements, and conditioning. Pausing too long between sets allows muscles to grow colder, and insufficient rest runs the risk of damaging healing muscle. If you are using the proper weight to perform 8-12 repetitions of an exercise with correct form, you will be able to resume working out in 45 second intervals. This also ensures a certain rhythm to your routine, one your body will become accustomed to.

These tips will help you benefit more from your conditioning regimen. They are easy to remember and adopt. For other physical fitness articles, please visit http://blog.workouthealthy.com/

This is a “live theatrical animation” production of Mary Shelley’s classic tale. Three actors all dressed in black wearing masks of their own make life size puppets come to life with the dark story of man who is tormented by his mother’s early death and his decent into mental instability as he creates a monster that doesn’t need to be born, then he has to live with the consequences of his creation.

This is not a show for young children. I took my teen daughter who thought it was dark but then she likes dark stories. After the show we spoke briefly with the actors/puppeteer’s and got a closer look at the puppets that they had created themselves. They are very amazing faces that even photos don’t do justice.

If you like to listen to a dark tale on these cold October nights, then get on over to 6^th Street Playhouse in Santa Rosa. All seats are $10 and the show goes through Oct 23^rd.

Photo by Eric Chazankin

Review-Kite’s Book: Tales of an 18^th Century Hitman

The West Coast Premiere of Kite’s Book: Tales of an 18^th Century Hitman started this Friday. Playright Robert Caisley was inspired partly by the O.J. Simpson trial and a few other famous trials held in the 90’s. Caisleys penchant for classical plays, costumes and sword fights had him set the play in the 18^th century, another era famous for its public trials and executions that entertained thousands.

The talented cast of actors, including Rahman Darlrymple as
Black Kite-the Hitman, Clint Campbell as Will Carew, Ray Morgan as Emile
Ferriere-a renowned French executioner (the only comedic role) and many others, who brought to life the characters they portrayed with the conflicts of the time, witty dialogue and intense swordplay. There was a message in this play as well, speaking to all about crime, punishments and our justice system today. Directed by the accomplished Craig A. Miller, this play is running from Sept 30- Oct 23 at 6th Street Playhouse in Santa Rosa.

Tickets were provided in exchange for a review.

Guest blog By: David Haas
When a person is fighting cancer, fitness and exercise are perhaps two words that do not enter his mind. Pain, depression, anxiety, exhaustion, nausea, weakness, and finding the time between treatments to exercise may all be reasons why individuals with cancer might not see exercise as important. However, research has shown that keeping fit and engaging in regular exercise can increase energy levels, improve psychological health, and even increase the survival rate in those fighting cancer.

According to the National Cancer Institute, exercise following a cancer diagnosis can greatly improve the individual’s quality of life. Exercise reduces the level of fatigue and increases the energy level of the individual. The National Cancer Institute states that exercise during cancer treatment can also improve psychological well being, including reducing depression and anxiety levels. The NCI found that even moderate amounts of exercise, such as brief walks, had increased benefits over not exercising at all.

In a study conducted by Meyerhardt, Giovannucci, and Holmes (2006), the frequency of exercise following a diagnosis of colorectal cancer was directly correlated with survival and relapse rates. Those individuals who exercised more frequently following their cancer diagnosis were less likely to relapse following treatment. In addition, they also had increased survival rates over those who did not exercise. Pre-treatment levels of fitness appeared to have no correlation on the survival rate or risk of relapse.

Exercise also benefits the cancer patient by helping to rebuild lost muscle mass. In the case of head and neck cancers, there can be muscle wasting around the area of the tumor. The NCI found that those who engaged in regular exercise specifically tailored around their treatment type and type of cancer were able to regain loss muscle mass. For those with breast cancer, regular exercise was found to stabilize and strengthen the area around the shoulders, which is often debilitated following surgery.

For patients with cancers that reduce lung function, such as mesothelioma, moderate exercise can help to improve lung function. However, it is essential for the patient to work with the health care team during mesothelioma treatment to develop a program to slowly build up lung function. The typical exercise program for those with reduced lung function often begins with very short walks and light exercise, gradually increasing the duration and intensity as lung function allows.

No matter what type of cancer the individual is fighting, a consistent and personalized exercise routine has been shown to have considerable benefits. However, because every patient and cancer is different, patients need to work with their doctor and oncology team to ensure that the exercise routine is safe and appropriate for the type of cancer and the type of treatment.

Guest blog By: David Haas

Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance Guest Blogger -
http://www.mesothelioma.com/blog/
Personal Blog -
http://haasblaag.blogspot.com/