The 10thannual Sand Crab Classic Perch Tournament when off without a hitch as anglers had a blast beach fishing and raising money for Monterey Bay Salmon and Trout Project. With 300 entrees and more than 30 volunteers, the event has become a real fun day for all.

Your butcher should be your best friend. In the grocery store, that is.

For the last few years before the Santa Cruz Bonsai Kai club has its annual show I've been honored to visit one of the members for a tour of their personal bonsai collection. Last year, I viewed Marc Shaw's collection in Ben Lomond. Marc is currently serving as president of the club. The year before, I visited former president Ron Anderson's home in Boulder Creek. Both wowed me with their talent creating such amazing specimens.

Food, music and murder, oh my! All this is happening right now in Felton at The Trout Farm Inn, 7701 E. Zayante Rd., where Elf Empire Productions will present the final showing of its current Murder Mystery Dinner Theater.

As I looked out the window at the rain coming down, I thought of all the things I should be doing in the garden.

I have been happy to see rain lately. It may not be a wet year but any rain helps fish. On another positive “fish note,” the prospects for salmon season look very good.