Lately there has been a stir over at Maxwell Farms Regional Park. There are discussions in the works about upgrading the park to include dedicated biking trails, expanding tennis courts, a dedicated dog park and creating additional recreational facilities for the public to enjoy. Within... Continue
A resolution is a promise to oneself to improve upon one’s previous actions, or lack thereof. In that vein, I will end the year acknowledging a mistake in my previous column titled, “A Poet Laureate named Ina.” I stated that Agnes Moulton Coolbrith married Joseph Smith... Continue
This week I bring to the forefront Ina Coolbrith. Jack London was quite taken with her, stating her to be the noblest woman he had ever met. Her story begins with her birth in 1841, when the small pueblo of Sonoma was in its infancy.... Continue
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
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