No one knows for certain just where cioppino originated.

Recently, I spent the day at the de Young Museum, enjoying the Renaissance paintings on loan from Venice, Italy. Also, I got over to the Palace of Fine Arts for the exhibit of the Impressionist painter Pissarro. The paintings are powerful and inspiring. I was especially drawn to the landscapes. Looking at the pomegranate, olive and apple trees gave me some ideas for holiday presents.

Monterey Bay Salmon Trout Project hosted its annual fin-clip event early this month, and all the volunteers had a great time. In the meantime, as anglers wait for rains to bring steelhead, local fishing is centered on rockfish and crab.

Dave Burns of Mount Hermon is a pop vocalist who has an incredible ability to reach out and transform others with his music. He has been captivating audiences for almost 40 years.