Kim Quintal

I have been golfing lately at Redwood Empire Golf and Country Club in Fortuna, Ca. Let me explain, I am NOT a golfer and by "golfing" I mean hitting on the driving range.

I was given golf clubs from a client (a veteran, I would like to add) and decided to give it a try. See photo below. I have no idea how these clubs rank in the golfing world, but they work just fine for me.

Praying not to look like a fool, I signed up for lessons from the golf pro. I pulled the clubs out of the back of my truck and after figuring out how to use the wheels, wheeled myself over to the driving range. The pro helped with the mechanics of my swing. I figured out the swing and off I went. Hitting ball, after ball, after ball... for an entire HOUR!

It was nice to be up at the Redwood Empire Golf and Country Club. Not only is it surrounded by lush grass and views, but a club house serving lunch and a pool with lifeguard.

Is this the beginning of a love affair with golf? I am not sure about that. One thing is for sure, I have a new appreciation for those who actually golf.

Fortuna Rodeo Run 2011 was a huge success! I want to send my appreciation to Ms. Lenore Bergenski who, since I was a teenager, has been running up and down the streets of Fortuna inspiring youth as she goes. Who better than Lenore to hold the Fortuna Rodeo Run?

I am always inspired by runners. Myself, being a jogger at best, can still appreciate what these folks must accomplish to run the rodeo run. Dedication to training, a mental will to keep going when things get tough and follow through to the finish line.

Congratulations to the runners of the Fortuna Rodeo Run! I hope to see you all next year again. Maybe I'll lace up my shoes too.

Wildwood Days 2011 in Rio Dell is kicking off on Wednesday, August 3rd, with the Car Show at DJ's Burger Bar. Mark your calendar and check the schedule of events here.

My favorite activities include:

Wednesday: Car Show

Thursday: Kid Games

Friday: Firemans Muster

Saturday: Parade, Bocce Ball Tournament, Riding Lawn Mower Races

Other cool things: Eel River Valley Idol, Softball Tournament, and Mini Gold Championships.

Whatever your taste or flavor, you will find something fun at Wildwood Days 2011. Thank you Rio Dell Volunteer Fire Department for hosting this event year after year!

Fortuna Rodeo 2011 is upon us! Mark your calendars for the week of July 11th through July 17th.

The Fortuna Rodeo is full of fun activities for everyone! This may sound funny, but in all the years I've lived in Humboldt, I've yet to attend the actual rodeo! I know, shocking!!! However, rodeo week always has my family and I busy with activities.

My personal "can't miss list" consists of:

Monday July 11th: Chili cookoff

Tuesday July 12th: Children's games, costume contest and cast iron cook-off

Wednesday July 13th: Street games

Thursday July 14th: Fireman's games

Friday July 15th: Family fun night at the rodeo

Saturday July 16th: Fortuna Rodeo 5K run/walk

Of course, for the rodeo fan, there are plenty more activities to attend.

Click here for more, grab your cowboy hat and enjoy the Fortuna Rodeo 2011

This last Saturday, the folks at my office, Cornerstone Realty, washed cars for four hours.

So what's the big deal, you ask? I've done plenty of car washes the last few years. Fundraising for Breast Cancer, for S.O.S. (a grassroots organization to raise money for local schools), sports, etc.

But Saturday. Oh Saturday. In four short hours we raised $1,200 for a local family who's six year old son has had a relapse of cancer. People drove down and handed us checks for $100. I've never done so many car washes for $40.

I walked away with such pride that I live in an amazing community. One that takes care of the people within it.

To the people of Humboldt County. I applaud you.