It was William Congreve (not William Shakespeare) who, in 1697, wrote, “Music hath charms to soothe a savage breast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.” Indeed, music is one thread that runs through every culture around the world; researchers have found it an important aspect of civilizations dating back almost as far as the human record.

• Savannah Sage Meisner was born to Julie Christine (Frank) and Matthew Michael Meisner of Scotts Valley at 3:56 p.m. Jan. 20, 2010. She weighed 9 pounds, 3 ounces at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center in Santa Cruz.

Friday, Feb. 5

• Elle Emre McCombs was born to Junneen Emily Lee and Jason Slade McCombs of Scotts Valley at 2:07 a.m. Jan. 6, 2010. She weighed 6 pounds, 3 ounces at Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz.

We are in the early years of a historic shift in economic power, away from the United States and toward China and other emerging economies. And Americans’ investment portfolios are beginning to reflect that shift.

Flu activity seems to have quieted down recently, for which we can all be thankful. But the flu season is not over yet. Influenza is still out there.

Recent winter storms brought rain, high winds and heavy surf to the coastal waters. The large winter swells have churned the local beaches and formed new sandbars.