Vox Pop Influentials - January / February 2015

CENTRAL VALLEY’S VOICE OF THE PEOPLE — INNOVATIVE, INSPIRATIONAL, INSIDE MAGAZINECENTRAL VALLEY’S VOICE OF THE PEOPLE — INNOVATIVE, INSPIRATIONAL, INSIDE MAGAZINE

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015 Vol. 10 Issue 1 www.voxpopinfluentials.com US $3.50JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015 Vol. 10 Issue 1 www.voxpopinfluentials.com US $3.50

GET BACK TO WORK WITH LESS STRESS

WHO ARE YOU, REALLY?

THREE NEW TEAS THAT ARE ALMOST MAGICAL

FEATURED STORY HARRY WOOD

DEVOTED HUSBAND, FATHER, BROTHER, GRANDFATHER, & VESSEL OF GOD’S WORD

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About ten years ago I attended the HISWA Amsterdam boat show. I remember the day quite well. It was a cold, rainy, dismal Dutch winter day. Nothing, however, was going to prevent my nephew and I from having a good time. After all, how many people can say they attended one of the largest in-water premier boat shows in the world, rain or shine?

These weren’t ordinary boats either; they were yachts and mega-yachts. Bob and I donned our rain gear and headed out to a full day of adventure. Not long after we arrived at this particular port I immediately fell in love with a sexy Italian beauty named Azimut.

Azimut yachts are built in the province of Turin, Italy – a stylish industrial complex at Avigliana. From what I gathered from their literature, serious boaters simply had to own an Azimut, if for no other reason than to attend one of the builder’s exclusive parties for owners at their shipyard.

The 42’ Fly bridge that I fell head over heels with was truly stunning. She had sleek Italian lines, large windows in the salon and she looked credibly fast, even while tied to the dock. Imagine how I felt when I boarded her (sans shoes) and my senses were immersed in a daydream scented by the luxurious smell of Italian leather. Yep, this was it for me!

As far as I was concerned the show was over right then and there. I really didn’t need to see any other yachts because I found mine. She was a ruby red in color, too, a real gem. There was only one problem; her price tag was just over a million dollars!

We all have dreams, some larger than life, but does that mean we should cease to dream? I think there’s nothing wrong with living a life partially occupied by dreams of hope, excitement or wondrous anticipation.

Consider yourself lucky if your life is filled with loving friends and family, and a few larger than

life dreams. Keep on dreaming, just don’t go “overboard” with your dreams and allow them to obsess you. If this happens they will likely turn into nightmares.

At the HISWA boat show that day, Bob and I left physically and mentally soaked, but my inner spirit was high and dry, thanks to my new Azimut dream. Before I left the dock where my Azimut was parked, I did make it a point to give the tanned, smartly dressed Italian salesperson my business card. And I did actually say to him, “Someday I plan on owning one of these.” And I really meant it.

Ten years later now that same salesperson still sends me email updates on the Azimut line of yachts. And I still look at them, drooling! (I’ve included a photo of their new Azimut 80 below). She’s a real beaut too!

If you’re waiting for your ship to come in that’s okay, as long as your ship is not a huge oil tanker that occupies your head 24-7. If you’re not a dreamer then I hope you can at least wake up each morning and embrace the day and all that comes with it. Because who knows, that particular day may be when you’ll meet the love of your life, retire from a grueling job, or simply learn to cope a little better with just getting older. Where ever you may be in your life cycle, please be sure to dream a little, or at least have something you look forward to doing. Believe me, we all need to do this in the crazy world we live in.

Dream On!

R.J. Latronico, Publisher

PublisherR.J. Latronico

Creative DirectorJennifer Lingard

ContributorsAlana Unger, Harvey Mackay, Kurt Eichsteadt,

Cathy Humerickhouse, Emily Latronico

Contact InformationVOX POP Influentials

Volume 10 Issue No. 1 January/February 2015

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CENTRAL VALLEY’S VOICE OF THE PEOPLE - INNOVATIVE, INSPIRATIONAL, INSIDE MAGAZINENew Year…New Dreams

[ FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK ]

Dream Therapy

www.voxpopinfluentials.com 3

Why You Should Consider Earthquake INSURANCEMany people think that earthquakes are only likely to occur in California. But according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), more than 20 U.S. states have experienced measurable earthquake activity over the past three decades.

EVEN MOST CALIFORNIANS DON’T HAVE EARTHQUAKE INSURANCE A majority of the world’s biggest earthquakes take place along the U.S. Pacific Coast, stretching from Southern California to Alaska. Though California has one of the highest earthquake risks in the country, only 12% of the state’s homeowners have earthquake insurance, according to the California Department of Insurance. To help encourage more Californians to purchase earthquake coverage, the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) was created in 1995. The CEA is a nonprofit, privately funded insurer created by the state’s government to help make earthquake insurance more affordable. This “mini-policy” option is available through most California insurance carriers.

SUPPLEMENTAL EARTHQUAKE INSURANCE Standard homeowners, condo owners, or renters insurance policies don’t cover earthquake damage to property and personal belongings. Federal and state financial assistance after an earthquake will probably not cover all your replacement costs. Even if your neighborhood is declared a disaster area, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can only offer limited assistance through grants, and only to those who qualify.

In most states, insurers offer earthquake insurance as a separate option to their standard homeowners policy for an additional premium. Premiums vary from state to state, depending on statistical and risk-assessment factors. Rates are lower in states with lower seismic activity.

If you live in California, you can use CEA’s premium calculator to determine rates in your area.

EARTHQUAKE INSURANCE COVERAGE As when buying any type of insurance, purchase the coverage that works best for your budget and individual needs. Consider these factors:

• How much would it cost to replace your possessions? Replacement costs for major appliances and other expensive items in your home could add up to a substantial sum.

• Where would you live if your residence were uninhabitable for an extended period of time? If your home sustains structural damage, you might have to vacate the premises and stay in a hotel while repairs are being done.

• How much is your home worth? Your earthquake coverage should match the level of coverage on your homeowners insurance.

A home inventory is a useful way to record your most valuable assets ahead of any loss and provide a better idea of how much coverage you might need. Keeping an accurate property inventory will help facilitate the claims process in the event you have to file a claim. A visual record of your possessions, such as a video walk-through of your home or a series of photographs, can help establish proof of ownership. Make a list of everything of value in your residence. Keep documentation of major purchases, including receipts, credit card statements, and appraisals. These documents can be scanned for digital storage or kept in a safe off-site location, such as a safe deposit box. And once you’ve created your home inventory, be sure to keep it updated.

To learn more about earthquake insurance and whether it’s available in your area, contact your insurance agent.

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FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK2 New Year - New Dreams

WEALTH & FINANCE6 Harvey Mackay: The holidays are over and it’s time to

get back to work. If you want to do it with less stress, Mr. Mackay has the answer for you. It involves some simple steps like setting goals, adjusting your energy level and setting your priorities.

8 Kurt Eichsteadt: Harold Hamm is considered by many to be the most influential oilman since John D. Rockefeller. He was a key figure in developing the huge Bakken oil field, and one of the first to fully utilize hydraulic fracturing.

HEALTH & WELLNESS12 Alana Unger: Matcha, Kombucha and Jin+Ja. These are

not yoga chants or martial arts terror screams, they are legitimate names of new teas on the market designed to make you healthier, smarter and alert, yet calm. Or are they? Alana seeps into these new products to determine if they really are worth all the tea in China.

24 Cathy Humerickhouse: Why do we think and do the things we do? Doctors Freud and Jung explored this question decades ago, and so have other psychoanalysis’s before them. In her article Cathy tackles this age-old question and illustrates just how complicated the human psyche is. Hopefully, after reading what she has to say you may be a little more comfortable with yourself.

FOOD & WINE27 Kurt Eichsteadt: Kurt is back at the bar again concocting

some delicious drinks that we all can truly appreciate during this cold, foggy winter. Prost!

ENTERTAINMENT 28 Kurt shares with us his insight into several DVD picks this

winter including: Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, Nightcrawler; and The Book of Life. Kurt’s “must see” from the vault: Taxi Driver. And a DVD don’t - The Judge

HARRY WOODFor several decades now Pastor Harry Wood has been helping countless believers and nonbelievers alike. We visit with him now in his retirement. Last we spoke with him was in 2006. A lot has happened since then in his life and his church. His favorite verse of the Bible even changed. It is now Psalm 73:26 (check it out!) We can all learn a lot from the life and teachings of this wonderful ecumenical minister.

16

FEATUREON THE COVER

CONTENTS JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015


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Holiday Recovery: Get Back to Work with Less Stress

A lecturer on stress management raised a glass of water and asked, “How heavy is this glass of water?” Answers from the audience ranged from 20 grams to 500 grams.

“The absolute weight doesn’t matter,” replied the lecturer. ”It depends on how long you try to hold it.

“If I hold it for a minute,” he said, “that’s not a problem. If I hold it for an hour, I’ll have an ache in my right arm. If I hold it for a day, you’ll have to call an ambulance. In each case, it’s the same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes.”

The lecturer continued, “That’s the way it is with stress management. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, as the burden becomes increasingly heavy, we won’t be able to carry on. As with the glass of water, you have to put it down for a while and rest before holding it again. When we’re refreshed, we can carry on with the burden.”

I used this story in my column nine years ago, and I feel it’s just as important today. So when you leave work today, put the burden of work down. Don’t carry it home. You can pick it up tomorrow. Whatever burdens you’re carrying now, let them down for a moment if you can. Relax; pick them up later after you’ve rested. Life is short. Enjoy it.

Stress is part of life. A certain amount of stress is normal, even useful. Deadlines are stressful for many, but they also motivate people to finish projects and even feel some sense of accomplishment. Sometimes such pressure is effective in fostering teamwork – the notion that we’re all in this together. Team members share the stress and empathize with each other, and feed off each other’s energy.

That’s the upside of stress. But when stress results from overwork, unreasonable demands and impossible expectations, it can affect everything from customer

relations to personal problems to health issues. Can anything be worth that?

While your mind may still be on a holiday schedule, you may not feel ready to get back into the groove. Your job (and your boss) won’t wait, though. Here’s how to get past the holiday bustle and New Year’s doldrums:

• Review your goals. Look back at what you accomplished the previous year. What remains to be done? Spend some time setting new objectives for the coming 12 months. This should help you get charged up for the future.

• Adjust your energy level. Log your activities for a few days and identify tasks that waste time and leave you feeling drained. Eliminate what you can, and look for strategies to manage what you’re stuck with.

• Set priorities. Look at what’s most important to get done now. Achieving a fresh goal will improve your spirits and remind you of what you’re good at.

• Commit to work/life balance. Make one of your resolutions to balance the demands of your job and your personal life more equitably. You’ll be less likely to crash after a holiday if you’re not stressed out before it begins.

• Get enough sleep. Lack of sleep diminishes your ability to deal with stress. Seven or eight hours of sleep every night will help you stay calm and patient throughout the day.

• Resist the urge to vent. Expressing your feelings isn’t the same as losing control. Lashing out at others can intensify your sense of frustration, especially if you can’t do anything about the situation. Focus on solving problems without exploding.

[ WEALTH AND FINANCE ]

By Harvey Mackay


• Find your stress triggers. By observing what’s likely to make you nervous, impatient or angry, you’ll be able to head off an ugly incident with your co-workers.

• Exercise. Regular exercise keeps you healthier overall. Start slowly, if you need to. Low-impact exercises such as yoga can help you relax your mind as well as your body.

• Recognize the symptoms. If you’re suffering from warning signs like lingering headaches, sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating or stomach problems, you may be hiding from a very real threat to your health. Pay attention to what your body is telling you before stress takes its toll.

And if all else fails, just remember: Stressed spelled backwards is desserts.

Mackay’s Moral: Don’t let excess stress get in the way of extreme success. Reprinted with permission from nationally syndicated columnist Harvey Mackay, author of the New York Times #1 best seller Swim With the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive and Use Your Head to Get Your Foot in the Door. The Mackay MBA Of Selling In The Real World is Mackay’s seventh New York Times Bestseller.


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INTRO

During his divorce, the court ruled that Harold Hamm had to pay his ex-wife almost a billion dollars, the fourth most expensive divorce ever. That’s the bad news. The good news was, he could afford it.

He’s one of the key figures in developing the Bakken oil field and one of the first to make use of hydraulic fracturing or fracking, the oil drilling technique that has revolutionized the industry. He’s considered by some to be the most influential oil man since John D. Rockefeller.

With the collapse of the world oil market, he’s worth half of what he was a year ago, which means $10 billion instead of $17 billion, which is still a lot of money.

Apparently even with all his wealth and street smarts, he forgot two the words, “prenuptial agreement.”

Harold Hamm is this month’s rich man and his money.

BACKGROUND

He was born to Oklahoma sharecroppers on December 11, 1945, the youngest of 13 children.

The lack of education doesn’t seem to have held him back; as we pointed out, before the recent crash of oil prices, he was worth about $17 billion.

His first job was a truck driver. Hamm founded the Harold Tank Truck Service in 1966 becoming a leader in the field of oilfield fluid transportation in Oklahoma.

He got rich in Oklahoma and a lot richer in the Bakken.

ABOUT THE BAKKEN FORMULATION

The Bakken is 200,000 square miles in Montana, North Dakota, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. It’s named after Henry Bakken, a farmer in North Dakota who owned the land where the formation was initially discovered while drilling for oil.

Estimates of the oil in the Bakken Formation range from 2 billion to 18 billion barrels. According to Hamm, there’s enough natural gas there for the U.S to be self-sufficient for 200 years. Even allowing for exaggeration, that’s a big number.

The Bakken has had a significant impact on the world energy picture. For example, domestic oil input has increased 50% since 2010. Fifteen years ago, there was no shale gas produced in Bakken. Now the country produces 10 trillion cubic feet a year.

HOW HE DID IT

He founded what became Continental Resources (CR) in 1967, became CEO in 1987 and took it public in 2007.

Hamm struck oil in his home state of Oklahoma in the early 1990s. Using that money and the new technique of fracking, he was able to increase the flow from some wells from 150 barrels a day to 1,500 a day.

While the rest of the industry hesitated, CR snapped up massive amounts of land in the Bakken, believing it held a significant amount of gas and oil.

In Forbes in May, 2014, Hamm said a conservative estimate of 300,000 barrels per well could mean that Bakken could contain 30 billion barrels. The U.S. uses 7.5 billion barrels per year. “Suddenly, you see the enormity of what we’re talking about here,” Hamm said in the magazine.

CR combined the “full-field” technique and fracking. “Full-field” means drilling wells close together. They extended drill pipes


A Rich Man and His Money:

by Kurt A. Eichsteadt

Harold Hamm: The Bakken Billionaire


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horizontally after getting into the ground. They also used fracking, which involves opening holes in the pipes and pumping in water mixed with sand, which “fractures” the rock, so the oil can then escape. Apparently, they also sometimes use

chemicals in the process, but oil drillers are reluctant to say what those chemicals are.

CR led the development of the Bakken Oil Field in Montana and North Dakota. After striking it rich, most oil companies spend big. Historically, most US oil companies would go to Houston or Dallas. CR stayed in Oklahoma, buying another company’s headquarters for $3 million, keeping their head count small (959 vs. 6,000 for Devon and 11,000 for Chesapeake).

In a series of deals that raised eyebrows, CR paid $340 million for another North Dakota oil company co-owned by Hamm and signed a $100 million deal with a pipeline firm co-owned by Hamm and his family.

WHAT HE DID WITH IT PHILANTHROPY

The Harold and Sue Ann Hamm Foundation donated $10 million to the University of Oklahoma, which established the Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, named after Harold himself who has type 2 diabetes.

Hamm joined the Giving Pledge (originated by Warren Buffet and Bill and Melinda Gates) promising to donate at least half of his wealth to charity.

WHAT HE DID WITH IT POLITICS

In March 2012, he was named energy advisor to the Mitt Romney campaign. Shortly after, he donated $985,000 to the super PAC “Restore Our Future.”

DIVORCE

Hamm divorced his first wife, Judith Ann in 1987. He married Sue Ann Hamm in April of 1988. She held a number of executive roles at Continental Resources.

Bakken Oil Field in Montana


His divorce from Sue Ann was particularly convoluted. She filed for divorce on May 19, 2012. He said that he had separated from Sue Ann in 2005.

Reuters said in June of 2014, that there was no prenuptial agreement. Eventually, in November of 2014, a judge decided that that he should pay his second wife $995.5 million. She wanted more. His lawyers diagreed since the stock of Continental Resources had dropped 30%.

UPDATE

Right before we went to press, Harold Hamm had sent his wife a hand-written check for the $975 million that the judge had said he owed her. At first she refused to cash it, but then in about mid-January, she did deposit it.

LEGACY

He’ll be remembered as one of the most influential men in the field of domestic energy. According to Forbes, his only equal might be John D. Rockefeller, co-founder of Standard Oil. Besides his influence in the oil business, he had a profound effect on the U.S. economy, helping it change from an oil importer to an oil exporter.

And if a billion dollars doesn’t convince you of the necessity of a pre-nuptial agreement, I don’t know what will.

MORE INFO

Forbes Magazine, May 2014, Harold Hamm: “The Billionaire Oilman Fueling America’s Recovery.”www.forbes.com/sites/clareoconnor/2013/03/23/oil-billionaire-harold-hamms-divorce-could-be-worlds-most-expensive-at-over-5-billion/

New York Times pre-election article: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/08/24/us/romney-would-give-reins-to-states-on-drilling-on-federal-lands.html?_r=0

Wall Street Journal, Washington Wire Blog, Sept. 24, 2012“The Frackers: The Outrageous Inside Story of the New Billionaire Wildcatters,” by Gregory Zuckerman

www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bakken_formation

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Now, consider stepping away from your usual

boxed tea bag beverage, and try a new brew. Here

are a few tea alternatives that you may, or may not,

consider adding to your tea repertoire.

“Matcha, Kombucha, Jin+Ja” - if said repetitively

- can take on a witchcraft-like chanting rhythm.

They are, however, simply unfamiliar (to most of

us) names of some of the very out-of-the-box teas

you may be looking for. Could any of these be

your newest health revelation? Are they harmful

concoctions? Are they even tasty treats to tip your

cup with? Each of these teas are new to me as well,

so I’ll share with you some of the information I found

on them, and let you decide.

MatchaMatcha is a fine powder green tea produced from

tealeaves grown in shade. This process slows

the growth of the leaves, stimulates increased

chlorophyll levels, turns the leaves a darker green,

and causes the production of amino acids. These

amino acids lend to a sweeter tea with a deeper

flavor. Only the finest quality leaves are then

picked, dried flat, and ground into a fine, bright

green powder. Optimal flavor is reached after this

powder is then put into cold storage to age for at

least 6 months. The grade of tea is established by

any variance in this overall procedure, determining

the quality, and the price, of the tea. If the tea

has been exposed to oxygen, it may develop a

hay-like smell and dull brownish-green color from

the oxidation.

Historically, the preparation, serving, and drinking

of Matcha has been a center focus for Japanese

tea ceremonies. Matcha is now used as a flavor and

dye in foods such as noodles, green tea ice cream,

numerous health food products, and a variety of

desserts, pastries and beverages. Have you tried a

green tea latte at your favorite coffee shop?

While the scientific evidence is building for the

health benefits of green tea in general, only

limited studies are available focused on Matcha

specifically. It is believed that the health benefits of

Matcha are 10 times as powerful as typical green

tea due to the fact that it contains only top quality

leaves with minimal processing, and that the entire

leaf is consumed. With notably higher antioxidant

levels than typical green tea, Matcha is said to

have more oxidation and free radical fighting ability,

improving the immune system and fighting cancer

(the evidence is, remember, limited on the actual

benefits of Matcha). Assumed health benefits

include lowered blood pressure and cholesterol,

improved blood sugar control, relief from menstrual

symptoms, and others.

It is also believed that the high content of the

L-theanine amino acid in Matcha lends to a

mental state that is alert but calm, similar to that

achieved with meditation, resulting in stress relief.

The caffeine content in Matcha is also high, but is

believed that the catechin antioxidants in the tea

slow the processing of the caffeine, releasing it

slowly into the blood stream. This allows for more

of a sustained energy lift rather than short intense

bursts often seen with the effects of caffeine.

There are no known toxicity concerns from ingestion

of up to 5 cups of Matcha or other green teas daily.

If you are sensitive to caffeine, excessive amounts

may lead to stomach upset, constipation, or other

caffeine-related symptoms. Green tea supplements

can cause more severe symptoms, including liver

toxicity. Drink up some Matcha tea – but do not

pop green tea pills.

For any of you thinking that your favorite typical

tea is the healthiest around… now have you met

your Matcha? Even if further studies don’t find that

Matcha is an all-powerful super health beverage,

it will still be a rich source of antioxidants and a

tasty way to hydrate while warming your hands

and tummy!

KombuchaOn to our next elixir hopeful…If you think yourself

to be adventurous in the Andrew Zimmern sense,

then this may be the beverage of choice for you.

Kombucha is a fermented drink of sweetened

black and green tea. Bacteria and yeast are added

to sugar and black or green tea and allowed to

ferment, resulting in a beverage that is highly

acidic with a bit of natural carbonation and a trace

alcohol content (although, if unpasteurized and not

refrigerated, the alcohol content can equal that in

beer). The bacteria and yeast that grow on the top

of the beverage during this fermentation come to

resemble a mushroom, earning kombucha the

nickname of “mushroom tea.” As unappetizing

as this may sound (and, yes, Andrew Zimmern

did feature it on one of his episodes), it actually

[ HEALTH AND WELLNESS ]

Alana Unger, Registered Dietitian

MATCHA, KOMBUCHA, JIN+JARitualistic Chanting, or New Beverages of Choice?


gets great reviews for it’s lightly sweetened funky tartness and its fizzy bite.

Fruit, herbs and spices are often added to make the kombucha palatable and

versatile (although the floating bits of bacteria may be a turn-off – straining is

recommended).

Kombucha is thought to have originated in China and made it’s way to Russia

and Germany in the early 1900s. During this time, Russian and German

scientists noted entire regions in the population who regularly drank “tea kvass”

(kombucha), and seemed to be immune to cancer. The scientists’ efforts in

finding a cure for cancer were pushed aside when the Cold War hit. Research

is now resurging in the United States, but scientific evidence for the health

benefits of kombucha is still lacking. Purported benefits of this low calorie

(60 calories per 16 ounces) funky fizzy drink include cancer prevention, liver

detoxification, improved joint health, and strengthened immune system, among

many others. Gut health benefits from the good bacteria, including the links to

mental/mood stability, fibromyalgia, depression and anxiety, believed to result

from improved gut health, are thought to be a potential only if the bacteria are

present in unpasteurized options.

That brings us to the other side of the floating fungus. Consumption of

kombucha brewed under non-sterile conditions has been reported to result

in stomach upset, infections, and allergic reactions. In rare cases, serious

side effects involving central nervous system impairment, liver damage, and

death have occurred. Over fermentation may produce an excessive level

of acidity leading to some of these concerns. To minimize the potential for

negative occurrences, it is recommended to limit pasteurized kombucha tea to

4 ounces daily for individuals with healthy immune systems. Pregnant women,

children, elders, and those with compromised immune systems are advised

not to drink kombucha, and unpasteurized tea is cautioned against for all. The

most cautious of you will stick to a limited amount of commercially prepared,

pasteurized kombucha. The Andrew Zimmern wannabes will throw caution to

the wind and run out to start your own home-brewery. Brew at your own risk –

many recipes are available online for the adventurous sippers.

Jin+JaJin+Ja, a “deliciously spicy” beverage, is one of the newest up-and-coming tea

concoctions hitting the market, and health enthusiasts’ palates. What a palate

tickler it must be, merging a powerful flavor blend of ginger, cayenne pepper,

green tea, mint and lemon. Matched only by a new Jin+Ja Dragon Fruit option

with dragon and passion fruit added to the mix. Wow! What a taste sensation

this must be! Judging by the growing popularity, it’s as delicious as it sounds.

Finding it’s way to only 20 stores in early 2013, it charmed it’s way into almost

1,000 stores by the end of 2014. I have called around searching for local stores,

but have yet to find an in-store option. If you would like to see it in local stores,

you could put in a request to add to mine! You are able to purchase this new

taste-bud tickler online for a pretty price. I’m considering…

Is this enticing little drink as healthy as it is flavorful? Although there hasn’t

been time to perform sufficient studies on the health benefits of Jin+Ja, it is

professed to have numerous health advantages. Taking into account the list of

nutrition all-stars it is comprised of, it is easy to see where some of the health

claims originate. At just 50 calories per serving, followers report improved

digestive conditions (nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea, appetite…); pain relief

(arthritis, sore muscles, menstrual pain); increased energy; respiratory infection

and bronchitis benefits; anti-inflammatory properties, and other health links.

Beyond the potential health benefits, this taste dynamo makes for more than

just a unique and refreshing beverage. It can be enjoyed hot or cold, used as

a cocktail or mocktail mixer, or cooking ingredient. Suggested uses include

recipes for vinaigrette, a finishing glaze for meat, stir fry or other sauces, or

even a unique ice cream float. It seems that this new spicy beverage could, at

the least, make an interesting addition to your beverage and seasoning options.

Although none of these three new tea alternatives have a strong scientific

backing at this time for their potential health benefits, they are all tasty options

to add to your beverage selections – and may hold the key to that health boost

you’ve been searching for. Opt for consuming the tea, not supplements; use

caution with home brewed fungi; be creative with beyond-just-a-beverage uses

for tea – and toast in a healthy, tasty new year!

January is National Hot Tea Month. Don’t worry if you missed celebrating this last

month, there’s plenty of cold weather ahead of you for paying tribute by snuggling

up to a piping hot cup of your favorite tea. There are so many enticing aromas

and flavors to choose from, your tea sipping could become a routine ritual of an

ever-changing nature. Beyond warming your hands, soothing your throat, and

calming your tummy, the health benefits of drinking a variety of teas have been

highly regarded for some time. So go ahead – cups up, sip up, and enjoy!

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BY R.J. LATRONICO

Harry Wood: Devoted Husband, Father, Brother Grandfather & Vessel of God’s Word


The Reverend Harry Wood attended Emory University in Atlanta,

Georgia and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor

of Divinity. He began his ministry as Associate Pastor of the First

Methodist Church of Decatur, Georgia. Later he served as pastor of

Sierra Vista United Methodist Church in Fresno, and then Wesley

United Methodist Church in Palo Alto. When he retired in 2002,

he was the pastor of the Visalia United Methodist Church. He is a

member of the Visalia Rotary Club and was named “Man of the Year”

by Visalia Chamber of Commerce in 1997.

RJ Latronico: Who really is Harry Wood?

Harry Wood: A buff, bronzed California beach boy trapped in the

body of a seventy-four year old preacher.

And what does an Independent Non-profit Organizational

Management Professional actually do?

I’m just a volunteer. Almost all of my efforts with non-profit

organizations have been as a volunteer. I have seldom been paid.

Often opportunities have been accepted with a feeling of obligation—

“They really need help and somebody’s got to do it.” I usually end up

feeling that I have gotten more out of the experience than I’ve given.

For example, I am tremendously gratified by the success of Pro-Youth

Heart, which today provides after school programs for almost 5,000

children. It’s not just babysitting but getting your homework done and

participating in other educational activities. Kids in the program have

fewer absences from school, see their grades improve and are more likely

to graduate from high school. Out of the tragic death of Kelly Scott in

1995 has come a program that has blessed the lives of thousand of kids

as well as our community.

I continue to support Habitat For Humanity and the Fox Theatre as

well. The great thing about Habitat—a Christian ministry—is that it

provides a helping hand to get struggling families a decent place to

live. Thirty-eight Tulare Country families will go to bed tonight in a

Habitat Home. It’s a house they helped build and they pay the non-

interest mortgage. At the end of twenty years, they have a nice home

(generally 1200-1500 square feet) that they would never have had

with Habitat.

Randy Zeeb cajoled me onto the board of the Fox Theatre in 2003

and I have worked with them since. It’s tough. The building is even

older than I am! Built in 1928. Electrical system, stage riggings,

dressing rooms—there is a lot to be done. Raising money isn’t easy.

I asked one family, “Will you consider a $30,000 donation for some

structural renovation?” They gave me a check for $500. The City of

Visalia has done what they could—Dennis Lehman has been heroic.

Marybeth Porter-Seay’s $500,000 gift was a terrific boost. Much more

help is needed though.

For those unfamiliar with the teachings of the Methodist Church, can

you touch upon the differences between the Methodist faith and the

Catholic faith, for example?

The basic beliefs are the same. The Episcopal Church came out of the

Catholic Church in the 16th century. The Methodist Church came out of

the Episcopal Church in the 18th century. So we’re four hundred years

away from Catholicism.

The core beliefs are the same. My grandchildren in Florida are being

raised as Catholics. I talk with them regularly. They are now preparing

for their First Communion. For a few years I even said the rosary, just

because I wanted to. I’m very conversant in everything they are doing

in the Catholic Church, and I enjoy it.

Harry with his daughter, Robin and grandaughter, Carmen

[ FEATURED STORY ]


[ FEATURED STORY ]

Father Dreiling at St. Mary’s is one of my best colleagues here. If

you recall, we were both involved in the Mystery of Faith magazine

interview you did in 2006. I’m pretty ecumenical in spirit anyway, but

if I were a Catholic I’d want to be a Franciscan. I love ‘em.

Tell us a little bit about your youth and family. When did you move to

Visalia and why?

We moved to Visalia in the summer of 1978. I had been appointed

by Bishop Marvin Stuart to be pastor of the Methodist Church. At the

same time, Ruth (my wife) moved from her office in the headquarters

of Dean Witter on Montgomery Street in San Francisco to their Main

Street office here.

Your dad was a minister. Was he a strict father?

He was strict, especially regarding alcohol. When I was ten or twelve

years old he told me, “If you ever drink, you are no longer my son.”

Years later when my sister Jane and her husband Lonnie came for a

visit from Knoxville I took her down into our modest wine cellar. Jane

looked at the bottles and began to laugh uncontrollably. “If Daddy

could only see you now!”

Tell us a little bit about your mom.

My mother was well educated and an accomplished pianist. She

played the piano and organ in every church my father served.

What were some of your fondest memories growing up?

Playing baseball and golf. Trips with the family to Daytona Beach.

Summers spent at the Methodist Youth camp in Dahlonega, Georgia.

In fact, Ruth and I met at Camp Glisson on the first day of camp in

June of 1960, and were married two years later. We celebrated our

50th wedding anniversary two years ago with a reception and a trip

with friends and family to Sequoia High Sierra Camp.

Tell us a bit about your children.

Our son Lee is married to Helen. They and their two daughters live

in Taipei, Taiwan. Catherine is a freshman at Duke University and

Hannah is a high school junior. Robin, our daughter, married David

Sanchez-Tembleque from Spain and they live in Miami Beach with

their daughters Isabel (13) and Carmen (9).

When did you become aware that you had a special relationship

with God?

As I mentioned earlier, my dad was a minister. Some preacher’s

children rebel, and some go with the program. I went with the

program. My dad gave me an alter call when I was nine years old, to

which I responded. I can vividly remember that and it was genuine. I

wanted to follow Jesus. When I was a bit older I went to a Methodist

youth camp and became a staff member there. These experiences

were very formative for me. I met Ruth at that same camp. She also

was on the staff there. Ten years later we got married after college.

Then I went to the seminary.

Have you experienced anything while being a pastor that comes close

to a miracle?

“Miracle” is a formidable term. Is there any “wiggle room” in a world

ordered by the laws of nature? I think so. “Miracle” is often trivialized,

i.e., “He made a miraculous catch to win the game.” I believe God is

real, and that this universe was not born out of anonymity and headed

toward oblivion, but has its source and destiny in the God of the Bible.

I do not believe that God is a cosmic bellhop out to do my bidding:

good cards at the poker table, delay the flight so I don’t miss it, etc.

There have been times when I prayed as hard as I could that the life

of a sick child would be spared, and the child died. Many times I felt

disappointment that God ignored my heartfelt plea. But there have

been times when—against all odds— prayers have been answered.

Ellen George’s tumor disappeared. Es McNutt was given 20 years

after his kidney disease was diagnosed as terminal. One morning Harry in San Francisco


I was on a run and as I passed the home of a family from my

congregation, I said a prayer for their children. When I arrived at the

church office that morning the family had left a check for $50,000

for the church building fund. That check came at a crucial time in the

construction of the church that now stands at Caldwell and Akers. That

family’s children were blessed and God threw in a surprise blessing for

the church. Are those events simply coincidences? Perhaps. I prefer to

thank God.

Your church was very vocal in the late 1990s about same sex

marriages – has that attitude changed at all in the past decade?

Richard, this is so hard. I am torn between my love for gay family

members and friends and the teachings of Scripture. One of the basic

Bible teachings is that adultery is wrong; i.e., sex with someone other

than your husband or wife. Clearly our society has abandoned this

standard. Contemporary morality defines the “good” as “whatever

pleases me.” Now adultery, same sex or heterosexual, is accepted,

even lauded. Family life and focusing on parenting has been degraded.

The crumbling of family life has been accompanied by record levels of

addiction, aimlessness and ennui.

Pitted against the tide of public opinion, Biblical morality seems harsh

and out of date. Ultimately, however, I believe our society will continue

its decline until the wisdom of the Bible is once again embraced. So

many of the societal problems that non-profits seek to remedy would

go away if we had more good families—mom and dad committed to

each other and focused on raising good kids.

What advice can you offer those wanting to choose a religious path?

Richard, it’s really a calling. It’s not like asking yourself, “Do I want to

be an insurance salesman, a surgeon, or an engineer?” Your aptitude,

grades, what you like, or what pays well doesn’t enter the picture. I

believe that for the priesthood, or the ministry, you need to be called

by God. I know that sounds like a cliché, but it has to be an inner

feeling that doing this type of work is something you ought to do. I’m

not sure how to say this any other way

You said in 2006, that one of the most influential people in your life

was a former pastor that took you under his wing, Bill Landis. Would

you like to add anyone to this list?

Harold Fox was a local farmer. His son, Byron, married Dick

Shannon’s daughter, Kelly.

Harold was the most Christ-like man I ever knew. He passed away last

year at the age of 96. Harold impacted me greatly. I used to take kids

to see him because I wanted to be in the same room with him. He was

just a good, good man.

So, you’re retired Now. What have you been doing for the past

13 years?

I retired in 2002 after 24 years as pastor of the Methodist Church.

A few months later I got a call from the Methodist Bishop in Denver

asking me to fill in as an interim in one of his larger parishes. The

year I spent in Broomfield was a wonderful adventure. The church

thrived and at the end of my year they welcomed a charismatic, young

African-American pastor from Florida, who has since doubled the size

of the congregation. Broomfield was followed by interim pastorates

in Antioch, the Exeter Church of God and the Selma Baptist Church. I

commented to Al Fisher, “If the Baptist churches are calling Methodist

pastors, Jesus must be at the door.” Al said, “Yes. That, or the Baptists

are desperate!”

Do you still jog?

I still run 3 days a week. The 30-minute run now covers 2.4 miles,

rather than 3 miles back in the day.

[ FEATURED STORY ]

Harry in Miami with his grandaughter, Carmen


You were the Visalia Chamber of Commerce’s Man of the Year a while

ago. Were you surprised when you received that award? Can you

remember who were the others that were nominated?

It was a big surprise! Marcia Peltzer was named “Woman of the Year.”

In those days, nominee’s names were announced, but the winner was

kept secret until the event. The Peltzer kids and my kids had been

friends—our son Lee had roomed with Eric Peltzer at Occidental

College. The children were cloistered backstage for the grand

announcement and were having a party. When Marcia’s name and

mine were announced they were reluctant to end the party and come

on stage with their parents.

Is Jeremiah 45:5 still one of your favorite Bible verses? Any new ones?

Richard, I hate to admit this, but Psalm 73:26 really rings true for me

these days. “When my skin sags and my bones get brittle,

GOD is rock-firm and faithful.” That truly is the way it is for Ruth and I.

Our faith has helped us deal with the challenges of growing old.

In your line of work, you witness to a lot of different situations (grieving

families, people with suicidal tendencies, people that have lost their faith,

etc.) Can you give an example of someone you were able to help make a

difference that left a huge impact on you personally?

Ruth and I will always treasure Heather Black. Heather was a

Redwood High School student who was struck by a car that had

run a red light. One of Heather’s doctors asked me to visit her in the

hospital. She was pretty banged up, including a crushed left leg. I

found her propped up in bed struggling with a new Toshiba laptop

computer that the Rotary Club had given her. I had a Toshiba as well

and helped her get started with hers. I prayed with her and she asked

me to come again. A wonderful friendship began. Ruth and I took

Heather and her sister Keri to San Francisco for their first visit there.

We did it all—Golden Gate Park, the Exploratorium, cable cars. We

stayed at the Union Square Hilton and she and Keri wanted to go

swimming in the hotel’s pool on the 16th floor roof. Her artificial limb

was not cosmetically pleasing, just metal rods and screws. When she

hobbled up to the edge of the pool, the other swimmers saw her and

grew silent. Heather nonchalantly unstrapped the leg, threw it aside

and jumped into the pool squealing. She was a pixie! All the kids and

adults at the pool realized this and the “feeling sorry for the kid with

one leg” vanished.

A second traffic accident ended Heather’s life a few weeks after she

graduated from Redwood. In spite of the heartbreaking turns of her

short life, we will always be grateful for Heather’s faith, charm

and friendship.

How has your faith helped you deal with difficult situations like caring

for a loved one that’s going through some very serious health issues?

Your question is on point for me at this time in my life. Ruth had

brain surgery in 1994 for repair of an aneurism. That surgery, while

successful, has been followed by a series of strokes and transient

ischemic attacks (TIAs).

[ FEATURED STORY ]

Harry with his wife, Ruth


She fell on New Year’s Eve, banged her head and injured her

back. She is in a lot of pain. Going through these things is tough on

everyone. Sometimes, when I needed it most, it has been hard for me

to pray or read the Bible. Still we are comforted, “When my skin sags

and my bones get brittle, GOD is rock-firm and faithful.”

Besides the Good Book, anything else on your night stand in terms of

a novel?

I enjoyed Kent Haruf’s Benediction, a novel set in his native Colorado.

The Boys In the Boat is the true story of the Olympic Gold Metal

winning rowing team from the University of Washington. They

competed in Hitler’s 1936 Olympic games in Berlin—terrific read.

Is there anything else you’d like to add at this point?

Retirement has afforded me the opportunity to volunteer and I’ve been

a CASA volunteer for four years. CASA (Court Appointed Special

Advocates) provides many of Tulare County’s 900 foster children with

a trained adult whose responsibility is to support the best interests of

the child. After a comprehensive training program, volunteers become

sworn officers of the court. CASA volunteers write reports detailing the

child’s progress and make recommendations to the court

regarding custody.

There were teachers, pastors, and other adults who had a huge impact

on my childhood and youth. I want to extend to a boy who has been

abused or neglected the encouragement and support that meant so

much to me. CASA is a great organization and Tulare County foster

kids deserve all the help they can get. It has been a blessing for me to

be part of CASA and the lives of the two young men I have gotten to

know as their advocate.

[ FEATURED STORY ]

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Do you ever question and ask yourself, “Who am I?” Do you ever feel you are adapting yourself to “fit in” with others, meeting their needs? Do you have multiple conflicting roles in your life; leaving you to feel confused? Do you feel that you have difficulty relating to others or just don’t seem to fit in?

These are questions one may face when trying to understand why we think and do the things we do. We live in a complicated world that seems to expect us to be lots of different things all at the same time. Rarely, are we called on just to be ourselves—yet strangely when we see that in others we applaud it and call it things like “individuality,” “charisma” and “inspiring.” Author Andy Turnbull writes in his book, Finding Yourself, “Why is it that true individuality in others seems inspiring, and yet, individuality for ourselves can seem impossible; or at the very least impractical.” If we do “find ourselves,” how do we then relate to others in new ways? When we strive to set out and relate to others more effectively, we develop higher levels of interpersonal skills. This in turn, will allow us to be ourselves, which will create a space for others around us to do the same.

THE PROCESS OF DISCOVERING YOURSELF

The ancient Greek philosophers realized that knowing yourself was an essential pre-requisite for all wisdom. Socrates focused upon knowing himself because there was little point in knowing about external things if you do not understand yourself first.

In childhood, the main emphasis was on knowing things and accumulating knowledge about the world in order to pass exams and get good grades. Developing ourselves does not really become emphasized until later in life if even then, and that maybe left to chance.Not discovering ourselves can have widespread consequences for how you will live your life and how you will relate to others. For example, if you grew up with parents who screamed at each other and then at you, you most likely will scream at your spouse and children. If you could understand and (discover) why you do things by exploring your own childhood, it could provide some insight to why you think and act the way you do. It is up to you to change the pattern of the way you relate to others. Having a true relationship with yourself is necessary for a true relationship with others.

UNDERSTANDING HUMAN BEINGS

Psychologists Freud and Jung have constantly tried to understand what motivates us. Sigmund Freud introduced the concept of the unconscious mind, where many human motivations exist, hidden from conscious awareness—and bringing those into consciousness was one of the main objectives of psychoanalysis.

His student, Carl Jung, also a psychoanalyst, developed different theories. Jung’s premise of life was about “individuation” which means becoming fully ourselves. This is a movement towards the ideal of wholeness. Jung said, “The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” This is where we can begin to understand what motivate us. Different things motivate different people. Let’s begin with acceptance, our roles, being authentic and self-aware.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR FEELINGS OF ACCEPTANCE?

Most individuals have a desire for acceptance. This is the main thing that motivates the vast majority, if not all of us, is to be loved and accepted, and to know that we are good enough. This desire for acceptance creates in us a sort of rulebook

W ho am I and How did I Get Here? by Cathy Humerickhouse, RN, LMFT


of beliefs and values. A sense of right and wrong, what is acceptable and what is not. These rules have been inherited from our parents, family, friends, colleagues and society at large. Long held beliefs and “common sense” approaches are talked about and adopted as fact by the individual growing up. For example, stealing is outlawed even if you are very hungry and are standing next to some fruit on display at a shop. The immediate desire to eat needs to be controlled, until food can be obtained in a way that will fit into the rules of society. We buy fruit rather than picking it up and just eating it. However, social rules are not in law, instead they are contained in an unwritten social code which needs to be discovered throughout life. Another example of this would be, living at home during high school but when college time comes, our parents and society expect people in their twenties to be getting a job and establishing themselves in a career. Ask yourself, “Do I feel accepted by others? Do I do things or act in a certain way in order to feel accepted? Do I adjust my morals or change my behavior in order to fit in?”

WHAT ARE YOUR ROLES?

Our sense of place in the world is based to a great extent on the various roles we play—we are spouses, children, perhaps parents, and workers of one kind or another. These roles change as we move through our different developmental stages of growth. From the standpoint of marriage, our perspective on our own roles and our mate can either add to the meaningfulness and harmony between us or create tension. Ask the question, “How do I feel about my role as a husband or wife?” What does this role mean in your life? How did your father or mother view this role? How are you similar and different? How would you like to change this role? What are the expectations surrounding our roles of self and others?

WHAT IS YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF?

The authentic self is the real you beneath all the conditioning that you have acquired during your lifetime. The “true” you is the one that finds life fulfilling in a deep sense rather than theoretically good on a purely intellectual level. For example, on an intellectual level, life is good because you have the career, the partner, the house and car but inside you feel lost. The important part of your journey is discovering your authentic self. Ask yourself, “Am I putting on a show to impress others?” Is my exterior presentation matching the feeling I experience inside?” “What is wrong with just being who I am?” Identify what you don’t like and do something about it. Find a mentor or a supportive person that will be honest with you. Begin to explore some adjustment or changes.

WHAT IS YOUR SELF-AWARENESS?

Self-awareness if often cited as being key to your personal development. The personality is not you, you have a personality. The self, as the personality, cannot be self-aware. We are an independent observer of our own internal process, which can become aware of what your personality is up to, and how it is behaving. Being in a state of pure awareness allows you to step

outside of yourself as if you’re looking at your reflection in the mirror. When we observe ourselves through a mirror we can become more objective. Ask yourself, “What are my flaws, weakness and strengths?” “What would I like to see different about myself?” “What are the things I can change and what I cannot change?” We need to learn to become more accepting of the things we cannot change. Looking at the Johari window below will help you discover yourself. This was created by psychologists Joseph Luft and Harrington Ingham. The window is used to help people better understand their relationship with self and others.

THE BASIC JOHARI WINDOW

Below is a diagram of the standard Johari Window showing the four different selves and how the awareness or otherwise of these aspects of our self by others and by us leads to these four categories.

What You See In Me What You Do Not See In Me

What I See In Me The Public Self The Private (or Hidden) Self

What I Do Not See In Me

The Blind Self The Undiscovered Self

THE PUBLIC SELF

The Public Self is the part of ourselves that we are happy to share with others and discuss openly. Thus you and I both see and can talk openly about this ‘me’ and gain a common view of who I am in this element.

THE PRIVATE SELF

There are often parts of our selves that are too private to share with others. We hide these away and refuse to discuss them with other people or even expose them in any way.

Private elements may be embarrassing or shameful in some way. They may also be fearful or seek to avoid being discussed for reasons of vulnerability.

Between the public and private selves, there are partly private, partly public aspects of our selves that we are prepared to share only with trusted others.

THE BLIND SELF

We often assume that the public and private selves are all that we are. However, the views that others have of us may be different from those we have of ourselves. For example a person who considers themself as intelligent may be viewed as an arrogant and socially ignorant by others.

Our blind selves may remain blind because others will not discuss this part of us for a range of reasons. Perhaps they realize that we



Cathy HumerickhouseAs a Registered Nurse and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I believe in treating the whole person which encompasses aspects of the individual’s biological, psychological, social and spiritual needs.

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End of Life Issues•

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559.625.6752

RN, LMFT

would be unable to accept what they see. Perhaps they have tried to discuss this and we have been so blind that we assume their views are invalid. They may also withhold this information as it gives them power over us.

THE UNDISCOVERED SELF

Finally, the fourth self is one which neither of us, nor other people see. This undiscovered self may include both good and bad things that may remain forever undiscovered or may one day be discovered, entering the private, blind or maybe even public selves.

Between the Blind and Undiscovered selves are Partly Hidden selves that only some people see. Psychologists and those who are more empathic, for example, may well see more than the average person.

In our different stages of life we are motivated by different things—what pre-occupies us in the morning of life fades away in the afternoon. Without an internal sense of acceptance we will continue to compromise ourselves to please others and not be true to ourselves.

The world is constantly changing and without understanding yourself you may struggle to thrive or even survive. Finding and

understanding ourselves enables us to let go of outdated notions and respond to the changing world we live in. Our roles that we play can give us strength and self-confidence.

Getting in touch with who you really are is about becoming aware of the rules in the rule book that you have acquired in your life. Try to identify the ones that are no longer relevant nor fit the real you.

This article was written using information from Andy Turnbull in Finding Yourself. This information does not constitute any therapeutic advice. If you feel you need a therapist please contact one in your area. You can always reach me at: [email protected] or call (559) 625-6752.



It’s still winter (or what passes for winter in parts of California), and although we can see spring from here, there still will be some nights when we’ll seek something special. Here are a few drinks to help pass the winter nights until spring begins.

CANDY CANE COCKTAIL If you’re like most people, you probably still have some candy canes around. And, if you’re missing Christmas, or if you just missed out, here’s the Candy Cane Cocktail, from the Four Seasons by way of www.marthastewart.com

To prepare the glass, crumble or crush a candy cane, placing the pieces on a small plate. Take a chilled martini glass, wet the outside of the rim with water and rotate the glass in the crushed candy canes.In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 ounces of strawberry vodka, 4 dashes of white crème de menthe, 2 and 1/2 ounces of cranberry juice and some ice cubes and shake. Strain into the glass and serve right away. Happy belated Christmas!

PROMEGRANTE FIZZIESStart with wine flutes. Fill them ¾ full of sparkling wine or sparkling apple juice. Add a splash of pomegranate juice and top off with 1 tablespoon of pomegranate seeds. Thanks to Sunset Magazine.

BOOZY PUMPKIN WHITE HOT CHOCOLATEBy the way, one of the reasons white chocolate is so good is that it has much more fat than the other kinds of chocolate. But, everything in moderation, right?

Ingredients:• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (or chopped)• 2.5 cups milk (2% works)• 1/4 cup pumpkin puree• 1/4 tsp. pumpkin pie spice• 1 ounce Kahlua or 1/2 ounce bourbon• Whipped cream and caramel for topping (optional)

Instructions:In a saucepan over low-medium heat, melt the chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of the milk, whisking often (about 3 minutes).

Once melted, add the rest of the milk, the pumpkin, pumpkin pie spice and stir vigorously to incorporate.

Pour a small amount of the hot chocolate into two serving glasses, add one ounce of Kahlua OR one-half ounce of bourbon (bourbon is much stronger in taste). Top off with hot chocolate, stir and then top with whipped cream, caramel sauce and more pumpkin pie spice (optional).This is from www.minimalistbaker.com. All require 10 ingredients or less, one bowl and 30 minutes of less to prepare. Check them out.

ORANGE TEAIf you’ve got the sniffles or want to justify consuming bourbon with vitamin C, try this. Take pot of hot water, add half a squeezed orange, a large spoonful of honey and a couple of shots of bourbon. Not too complicated, which is important when you’re not feeling well.

CLASSIC IRISH COFFEEThis is a warm, comforting drink and you can get an early start on St. Patrick’s Day if you need an excuse. Divide the following into two cups: 1 and ¼ cups of freshly brewed coffee, add a shot of Irish Whiskey or Baileys, top with whipped cream and sprinkle with pumpkin spice. Stay warm! Spring is coming!

[ FOOD & WINE ]

WINE AND THE GOOD LIFE by Kurt A. Eichsteadt

Special Drinks for Cool Winter Nights


ALEXANDER AND THE TERRIBLE, HORRIBLE, NO GOOD, VERY BAD DAY The title is almost as long as the movie. Steve Carrell and Jennifer Garner head a great cast about a family struggling with all the usual family problems crammed into one day. Dad is out of work, mom is trying to be a good mom and work full time, teenagers are teenagers and there’s a baby. This film is full of laughs and some truth about families. 81 minutes. Rated PG for rude humor including some reckless behavior and language.

NIGHTCRAWLER A sleek, unsettling, but entertaining look at freelance videographer Lou (Jake Gyllenhaal) who cruises the mean streets of contemporary Los Angeles at night in search of crime and car crashes. Not to be missed. 117 minutes. Rated R for language and violence including graphic images.

BOOK OF LIFE This movie sank at the box office, which is unfortunate because it is a magic world of animation under the creative supervision of Guillermo del Toro. He is responsible for some of most unique and visually impactful movies of our time. For example, Pan’s Labyrinth, Pacific Rim and Hellboy. It combines the joyful world of the hereafter with the celebration of Dia de Los Muertos. Great for everyone. 95 minutes. Rated PG for mild action, rude humor, some brief scary images.

DVD DON’T: THE JUDGEIt’s easy to be fooled in a story of an estranged father and his son who are forced together when the farther is charged with murder. Robert Duvall and Robert Downey can’t pull out this overlong, over complicated story. 141 minutes. Rated R for language including some sexual references.

FROM THE VAULT: TAXI DRIVERDirector Martin Scorsese looks at night and psychological darkness on the other side of the country from Nightcrawler in Taxi Driver, set in New York City. Robert DeNiro creates a movie icon as Travis Bickel, who cruises the streets as a cab driver because he can’t sleep at night. This is graphic and unsettling, but great work. 113 minutes. Rated R for graphic violence, language, including sexual dialogue, and mature themes.

[ ENTERTAINMENT ]

Welcome to the first 2015 edition of DVD Diary, where we save you time and money by highlighting what you should see and what you should avoid. This column comes out after the Academy Award nominees are announced and before the award ceremony, so we’ll just concentrate on what’s available.

by Kurt A. Eichsteadt

Vox Pop Influentials - January / February 2015

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