The Lighthouse has an art challenge for you! Even though Halloween has just passed, the fall spirit is still here! The leaves in the trees are still painted with fall colors, and the invisible wind sweeps away those that have fallen. The moon shines brighter than ever, only to be blocked by the silhouette of a black cat sitting on a fence. In my opinion, this time of year is the most inspirational for creating art. Speaking of creating art, here is your Fall Art Challenge!
INSTRUCTIONS:
Your art can be made in any shape or form! You can use any medium you wish; just make sure you can take a photo of your creation. The challenge is to include a pumpkin and a cat in your art.
SUBMITTING YOUR ART:
Make sure you have your art completed so that it can be submitted by Friday, the 24th of November. To submit your art, take a photo of it and send it to thelighthousetve@gmail.com.
NOTE:
Your artwork will be included in the next article and published in the Arts and Culturesection on Friday, the 1st of December. However, if your artwork contains any inappropriate content, it will not be included.
We hope to see your artwork soon, and we wish you a happy fall!
Picture taken from my car as we drove close behind competitors vehicle
The Great Pumpkin Weigh-Off is a competition hosted in Half Moon Bay on Indigenous People’s Day. Competitors travel from all around to have their pumpkins weighed for a chance at first place, where the pumpkin is purchased at nine dollars per pound. The record-setting pumpkin receives an additional 30k, and immortalization as a pumpkin record breaker. The last record set was broken by Travis Grienger, with his monstrous 2,749 pound gourd. Each pumpkin is carted onto a scale, weighed, lifted into the air on a crane and carefully inspected for cracks, chemicals or rot. If any of these are found, the pumpkin is disqualified, but they still weigh it anyway. There’s also a great deal to do in the area: there’s a brunch place named “Johnny’s”. Johnny’s is admittedly pricey, but tasty, and it boasts an authentic breakfast diner atmosphere. The biscuits are delicious and drowned in gravy, and the tater tots are filling and plentiful. Ice cream scoops (chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry) are only three dollars each, if you’re on a budget or just looking for a snack.
“Drowned in gravy”
All of this is right by Half Moon Beach, a sandy coast surrounded by fields of succulent plants and pathways. A 10-foot drop-off marks the border between the sand and succulents, with the layers of rock sediment displayed like a science exhibit. Getting down to the beach looks tricky at first, since most obvious paths lead to edges that would be difficult to descend, but following the succulents will bring you to a wider path. On your way home, there are many pumpkin patches to pick from if you’d like to drop by and snag one, or get lost in a corn maze and never return. To summarize, next year on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, consider a trip to The Great Pumpkin Weigh-Off in Half Moon Bay. It’s definitely worth the drive!
My sister, Elaina, on the shore of Half Moon Bay in front of the Hebrew symbol for peace
You may have been to the annual TVE Harvest Dance that took place just a few weeks ago. You might have even participated in the Knowledge Fair this spring, but have you ever wondered about the history of the building in which these events take place?
This year, on October 25th, the Danville Grange Hall celebrated its 150th anniversary. Many of us TVE members may know the Grange from all of the TVE events that happen there.
A recent TVE event inside the Danville Grange Hall
The Grange Hall that we see today was opened in 1952, though the story of its past purpose goes back to the late 1860s and the early 1870s, when the Civil War had just ended. On the national level, Oliver Hudson Kelley of Minnesota wanted to start a farmer’s society, in hopes of improving the situation of agriculture across the northern and southern states. As a result of his determined efforts, the National Grange was created in 1868 to support the welfare of farmers. On April 16th of that year, Mr. Kelley founded the Fredonia Grange in New York. It became the first Grange in the country. In 1868, Robert Baldwin from Danville and George McCamly from San Ramon learned about the National Grange and created the California State Grange. The Danville Grange was organized on October 1st, 1873. Throughout the country, farmers would gather at Granges to discuss farming techniques for the benefit of agriculture.
The Danville Grange was the eighty-fifth in California and the third Grange in Contra Costa County. It is now located at 743 Diablo Road in Danville. The original Grange was on the second floor of Danville’s Village Theater at 233 Front Street.
The plaque at the Village Theater – Photo Courtesy of Meru S.
The Grange Hall is now rented for various public and private events, including the monthly Tassajara 4-H club community meetings and, of course, TVE events. The next time you are at the Danville Grange Hall, take a moment to reflect upon its century-and-a-half-old history!
The Danville Grange Hall on Diablo Road – Photo Courtesy of Meru S.
For more information and facts about the Grange, please visit the San Ramon Valley Museum’s website:
Hello TVE Community! I think it is safe to say the fall has officially…fallen. Isn’t it wonderful? Leaves of all shades of orange line the streets and the tidemark smell of autumn is finally out. So you know what that means? TVE’s Harvest Dance is here! Join us for our annual Family Harvest Dance! This event is for the whole family and promises to be a fantastic night! There will be music, dancing, a photo booth, a variety of snacks, games, a costume parade, arts & crafts and more! It is truly a TVE tradition that is a favorite for many.
Costumes are highly encouraged, but please be sure to wear family friendly costumes so the little ones aren’t frightened. You can sign up for what you can bring to the snack potluck!
It will be held on October 21st, 2023 from 6-10 pm. Check the TVE official Facebook page for the location, who is going, and much more information! To cover the expense of the venue we kindly ask for 8$ per person/guest and 25$ for a household of 3 or more.
We sincerely hope to see you at this year’s Harvest Dance!
The Hindu festival of Navarathri begins on the new moon during mid-September to mid-October. In the ancient Indian language of Sanskrit, nava means nine and rathri means night, so Navarathri translates to Nine Nights. It is also called Dussara, or Ten Days, in Hindi. During these nine nights, three legendary goddesses of Hinduism are honored.
The first three nights of Navarathri celebrate the warrior goddess Durga, who destroys the demons of greed, anger, jealousy, and ego. Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura, after a nine-day-long battle, is one of the reasons why Navarathri is celebrated. The next three nights are dedicated to Lakshmi, who is the goddess of prosperity and abundance in spirituality, courage, material wealth, victory, agriculture, and wisdom. During the last three nights, Saraswathi, the goddess of knowledge and learning is worshiped.
Here is a short prayer to Goddess Saraswathi in Sanskrit:
सरस्वति नमस्तुभ्यं वरदे कामरूपिणि ।
विद्यारंभं करिष्यामि सिद्धिर्भवतु मे सदा ॥
Saraswathi namasthubhyam varade kamarupini
vidyarambham karishyami siddhirbhavathu me sada
Translation:
Salutations to you, O Goddess Saraswathi, who is the giver of boons and who has a beautiful form! I now begin my studies. Let there always be success for me.
In southern India, each family builds a beautifully and elaborately decorated set of steps on which dolls made of clay, wood, or ceramic are arranged. Dolls are often passed down for generations and are many years old. The god and goddess images are placed on the higher steps, while human and animal dolls are set on the lower steps. These displays (known as golu in the South Indian language, Tamil) commonly depict weddings, rituals, ceremonies, or stories from the scriptures. Families dress up and visit each other, sing songs, and chant prayers.
Photo Courtesy of Gayathri N.
In northern India, families and devotees celebrate Navarathri by visiting temples, performing traditional dances, and enacting legends of the three Goddesses. The tenth day, called Vijaya Dasami, is believed (in north India) to be the day on which Prince Rama defeated the ten-headed demon, Ravana.
This is a recipe for Sundal, a traditional savory dish made with garbanzo beans:
Ingredients:
1 cup uncooked or 1 can of garbanzo beans
1 tbsp oil
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp fennel seeds
⅛ tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 diced green chili or 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes.
1 small pinch of asafoetida (optional)
1 sprig of curry leaves (optional)
chopped cilantro (optional)
1. Soak the garbanzo beans in water for at least six hours, then cook them. If you are using canned garbanzo, drain them and skip this step.
2. Heat the oil in a saucepan, add the mustard seeds, and let them splutter.
3. Add the fennel seeds, green chilies or red pepper flakes, turmeric powder, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Stir, then add the garbanzo beans, salt and sugar. Mix until well combined.
What is the Day of the Dead? We have probably all heard of it once or twice, especially around Halloween. Well, it’s actually a traditionally Mexican holiday where families welcome back the spirits of their deceased relatives for a short reunion. The festivities can include food, drinks, partying and celebration, singing, dancing, and much more
The Day of the Dead or el Día de los Muertos celebrations, usually held in modern-day Mexico and among people of Mexican origin in the United States and other countries, has its roots in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica (which dates back around 3,000 years.) The Nahua people who lived in what is now central Mexico–including the Aztecs–had a, one might say, unique outlook of the world and the cosmos. They considered death as a necessary and constant aspect of existence. It was believed that after death a person traveled to Chicunamictlán, the land of the dead. Only after nine difficult levels and stages, and a journey lasting several years, could the human soul finally reach Mictlán, its final resting place. The occasion is observed every year from October 31 to November 2. It incorporates Spanish culture, European religion, and Mesoamerican ritual. While Halloween occurs on October 31, November 2 is All Souls Day or, in other words, The Day of the Dead. According to ancient tradition, the gates of heaven will open up at exactly midnight on October 31 and the spirits of niños (children) can rejoin their families for 24 hours. The spirits of adults, like abuelas, abuelos, tías, tíos, or really anyone can do the same on November 2. (Abuela and abuelo are grandma and grandpa. Tía and tío are aunt and uncle.)
Photo by YMCA of Greater Seattle
To help spirits return to their loved ones, people first construct an altar illuminated by candles or outside of their houses. Additionally, some of the deceased’s favorite foods are placed on the altar in case they grow hungry. On the altar, families also put things that were significant to the ancestors while they were living, such as a cherished book, musical instrument, heirloom, or even a child’s toy.
A huge party is then held in the cemetery. Families bring a substantial meal to consume as they sing songs, polish and repair tombstones, and communicate with their ancestors.
Even grandparents who have passed away before a baby was born could be introduced to the newborn by their parents.
Photo by The Royal Reporter
You may have seen festive photos of people dressed up in colorful dresses, suits, and make up. This is a very sacred tradition. You can get el Día de los Muertos-themed jewelry, clothes, leggings, make-up, decor, t-shirts, flower crowns and sugar skulls at basically any big box store. But however, let’s make one thing clear: el Día de los Muertos is not “Mexicans version of Halloween.” Rather, it seems to have been absorbed into the retail Halloween fixation and obsession, and has been reduced to an ‘aesthetic’ instead of a sacred Mexican cultural celebration. It should be respected as something that has been celebrated for many, many years and has so much cultural significance and importance to thousands of people (and ancestors). While the trademark colorful dresses and accessories can appear to be flamboyant fashion statements, in reality they are parts of habits and practices that date back to the time of the Aztecs over 3,000 years ago. Now, that’s not to say you should not celebrate and honor el Día de los Muertos, anyone can! But if you are wanting to buy and decorate your home with themed-decor this season, I would suggest buying from a family or personal-owned store. You can find these wonderful, authentic businesses on sites like Etsy or even at your local farmers market.
Photo by Thirteen.org
So, from me and my ancestors to you and yours, happy el Día de los Muertos!
Do you love art? Well be sure to visit the Legion of Honor museum in San Francisco, CA. It is filled with stunning pieces of art that are sure to catch your eye.
Artists in need of inspiration can treat themselves, and their families, to a field trip at the Legion of Honor. From paintings to sculptures, and even Faberge eggs, this stunning museum is a place to remember. Each gallery includes beautiful artwork with distinct techniques.
Some of the most beautiful artworks in the Legion of Honor are tapestries. They are huge, woven pictures. One example is the Triumph of Justice from the Triumph of the Seven Virtues series. It is woven from wool.
Triumph of Justice Photo by Lydia Matinov
Another stunning piece of art to look out for if you visit is “The Russian Bride’s Attire”.
It was painted by Konstantin Makovsky in the late 1800’s. The painting depicts a woman getting ready for her wedding, and is unhappy about it. She knows that it will end up a loveless marriage, and the man she will marry is significantly older. This true masterpiece shows great emotion. If you find yourself at the Legion of Honor, be sure to just sit down for a few minutes, and take a nice long look at “The Russian Bride’s Attire” to take in the wonderful detail.
The Russian Bride’s Attire Photo by Lydia Martinov
Right in front of the Legion is the “Holocaust Memorial”. If you are driving by, then make sure you check it out. It is a sculpture of a concentration camp from the Holocaust. It is free to look at, and very interesting to see.
The Legion of Honor actually has a pretty cool history. It was founded (or for those of you who love fancy words: established) by Alma de Bretteville Spreckels and her husband, Adolph B. Spreckels in 1924. That was 99 years ago. 2024 will be the 100th birthday of the Legion! That will be quite a grand event. Anyways, all those years ago, this incredible museum was a gift to San Francisco. That is a pretty big gift. Today, it’s one of the greatest treasures in San Francisco. For Alma de Bretteville and Adolph B. Spreckels, that is a very cool way to be remembered. The Legion of Honor’s “grand opening” was on November 11, 1924 (Armistice day). It was dedicated to the Californians of World War I.
The Legion of Honor is an incredibly fascinating place. For those who want to see the unusual artwork, and be flabbergasted by the Legion’s beauty, it is encouraged that they visit.
This year’s Not Back to the School Year picnic was full of friends, family, and back to school fun! The event was held at Athen Downs park in San Ramon, and began at 1:00 o’clock on a sunny Wednesday afternoon. A majority of the adults made conversation at the picnic tables in the shade, while the kids ran around on the playground or played board games. at the picnic tables.
At one of the tables, families were signing their children up to receive student ID cards. Nearby, kids were waiting in line to get their pictures taken for the IDs. Each student held a white board with their name written down, then posed for the picture. At around 2:00, a group photo took place. Everyone was summoned to a spot on the big lawn with a short hill that stood under some trees giving dappled shade. All the participants stood together and posed for the picture. A few extra pictures were taken to insure we got the best one.
Next to the ID table, there were two sale tables with many cool purchasable items such as books, school supplies, and even a chocolate fountain! Our Lighthouse members got the chance to interview 3 of the participants during the event! Here they are:
Interviews:
Emmet Moala, 11
Q: Is this your first time at a TVE picnic?
A: No
Q: Which picnic(s) have you attended?
A: I don’t remember
Q: What was your favorite part of today?
A: Playing with my friend
Q: What’s your favorite TVE event?
A: Park Day
Q: Which Park Days do you take part in?
A: Fridays in San Ramon
Amelie
Q: Is this your first time at a TVE picnic?
A: No
Q: Which picnic(s) have you attended?
A: Both
Q: What was your favorite part of today?
A: Hanging out
Q: What’s your favorite TVE event?
A: The Harvest dance
Q: Which Park Days do you take part in?
A: We used to take part in Park Days a lot more when we were younger, and we plan to start coming again.
Isabella
Q. Is this your first time at a TVE picnic?
A: No
Q: Which picnic(s) have you attended?
A: Both
Q: What was your favorite part of today?
A: Hanging out with friends
Q: What’s your favorite TVE event?
A: The Harvest Dance
Q: Which Park Days do you take part in?
A: We used to come a lot more, but we stopped.
Thank all interview participants for those lovely interviews! This event was a great way for kids and adults alike to get back together with friends and meet new ones after the summer holidays, and is a great way to kick off the school year! And special thanks to all the parents who contributed to this community by purchasing student ID cards. Every dollar makes a difference. The Lighthouse hopes you all have a wonderful school year that’s full of learning and fun!
Boo! It’s that time of year again: Halloween! Halloween is one of my favorite days of the year. It’s a lot of fun to dress up, eat candy and have fun with your friends. This year, I’ll be dressing up as Sophie Foster from Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger. What about you?
Photo by The Old Farmers Almanac
Halloween has an incredible history. It all started with a Celtic festival called Samhain (pronounced Sah-win). The Celtics believed that at the end of Summer (when Samhain happened), the ghosts of the dead came back to Earth.
Scared of the haunting spirits, the Celtics would dress up in scary costumes to ward off the ghosts. They would light bonfires, and wear costumes for protection. In the 700s (8th Century AD), All Saints Day was declared by Pope Gregory lll. On November 1st, everyone would honor saints.
The day before All Saints’ Day was called All Hallows Eve. This name was chosen, because All Saints Day was also known as All Hallows Day. The night before, or the “eve” before, was called All Hallows Eve.
Photo by Crystal Canvas Art Designs
Nowadays, kids dress up in all kinds of fun costumes and go from door to door, shouting “Trick-or-Treat!” all night long. This Halloween, let’s all get ready to have some fun.
This year’s Graduation and Promotion Ceremony took place at the Rustle Room at Rancho Amador, San Ramon. It started at 3:30. The graduates arrived at 2:45 for rehearsal. After rehearsal, the graduate’s families and friends arrived to watch. The MC, Nicole Pate, made an opening speech. After the opening speech, “Pomp and Circumstance” was played while all of the graduates walked down the aisle. The MC called their name and the graduate would walk up onto the stage.
The MC said something new that each graduate had accomplished this year, then the graduate was handed a certificate. The graduate would pose for their picture, and then sit back down in their chair. Then for our one and only Senior, a video was played that had pictures of his coming of age. Then our Senior walked up onto the stage with his family, and his parents each made a separate speech. Then he was handed his certificate, had his photo taken, and the turning of the tassel was performed. Next was the tossing of the cap, followed by more photos being taken.
Here are the names of this year’s graduates!
Pre-Kindergarten:
Elowen M.
Kaylee R.
Kindergarten:
Elijah M.
Jordan M.
Scott P.
1st grade:
Silas L.
Mila M.
Maya T.
5th grade:
Jesse C.
Ella C.
Heidi H.
Lillian K.
Genesis M.
Emmett M.
Liam M.
Ananda S.
Zackaria T.
8th grade:
Hadassah M.
Olivia S.
Seniors:
Charlie P.
Congratulations graduates! We hope that you have an awesome summer, and a school year packed with knowledge and fun! We are so proud of all of you.
Special thanks to our TVE Leaders for making this wonderful event possible, and to our AV Tech for the visuals and sounds, and to the photographers, who have captured these moments in time for us to remember. And of course, thanks to all the graduates and their families for participating in the ceremony.
The Lighthouse 