Last week I had the great opportunity to once again play Daddy Warbucks in the Broadway Bound Kids production of Annie. This was my third time playing Warbucks and each time I am reminded of how great theatre is for both adults and children. Theatre... Continue
Turning Stones
The average life span for American white males born in 2006 increased from 77 to 78 years. Sounds great for those American white males born in 2006, but much of the hoopla, when compared to the low-life expectancy rates of the past, has to do... Continue
As westward expansion began to slowly creep into Mexican territory by the mid 1830s, men, women and children made their way west across the country, hoping for a new beginning in California. In the early years, westward expansion on the California Trail was a man’s... Continue
Each year, as summer fades and fall quickly approaches, I encourage foragers to head out into the wilderness and gather food for the table. Once again, it is time for the acorn harvest and a rerun of a much-requested column. Local historian and dentist, Peter... Continue
I have been known to recklessly pull over at a moment’s notice when I see those telltale metal plaques situated along the side of a less-traveled road. In some instances, despite the cries of my fellow passengers, I have driven miles out of my way to... Continue
I am declaring the remainder of August and all of September Ethnobotany months. Ethnology is the study of culture and botany is the study of plants. When the two words are slapped together, it is the scientific study of the relationships that exist between people and... Continue
Our family vacation to Guatemala and Belize was coming to an end. We arrived in the southern Belize town of Punta Gorda around 9:00 pm. Punta Gorda is where the road ends. This sleepy fishing village is not on the typical tourist itinerary. It's the... Continue
Tikal was a spectacular adventure into the jungles of northeast Guatemala. We woke to Howler Monkeys growling high in the trees above. After breakfast we met our driver and loaded the van. Within a few hours we would be in Belize. Belize is just south... Continue
Wifi isn’t all that it’s cut out to be. The past couple of weeks I have been adventuring through Guatemala and Belize with the promise of good wifi, the kind of wifi that gets columns back to the states. Unfortunately, wifi didn’t always find it’s... Continue
Eliza spoke of suffocation from the stench hovering around the stables on a hot summer day. Everyone knew her. She drew sympathy from local Indians, the Mexican elite, soldiers, and American settlers. California was restless in the mid-19th century, as people from all backgrounds rummaged... Continue