The wine lover: Making sense of wine judging
The point system used in wine judging is often viewed with a sense of suspicion and ambiguity. Are the points that are awarded legitimate, and should we care? Many people see a 92 or 93 from Robert Parker or the Wine Spectator and immediately think the wine must be high end. Typically, this is a fair assumption, but just because a wine receives a high rating doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s the right wine for you.
The Mountain Gardner: Some trees provide shade quickly
Midsummer heat can be brutal. Without shade from trees, the sun can turn a garden from an oasis into a spot not fit for man or beast. If you need to plant a tree that grows really fast and will provide shade quickly, consider one of the following. They’ll sprout 2 to 4 feet in a single year with good care.
Off hours: Our vaunted health care system
Editor’s Note: This column is the first of a two-part series.
Gone Fishin’: Plenty of fish in the sea these days
Summer is here, and most types of fishing are in full swing.
The scoop on Tylenol
I’ve had patients voicing their concerns recently about a “recall” of Tylenol products.
Nature Friendly: Rincon – the bend in the San Lorenzo River
What is it about a river that loves its bend?
Andrews, Hearn marry
Justin John Andrews of Mount Hermon and Courteney Regina Hearn of San Jose were married Aug. 23, 2008, and have made their home in San Lorenzo Valley following a honeymoon to Kauai, Hawaii.
The Mountain Gardener: Get a little wild in the garden
I confess — I’m a lazy gardener. In July, my idea of working in the garden consists of removing seed pods from the fuchsias and trimming a few parsley and basil sprigs for dinner. I don’t have to spend time spraying for harmful insects and diseases, because the birds and other creatures I encourage in my garden provide natural pest control. Having wildlife in the garden saves time and money, too.
Paddy Smith Park blooms with new garden at Santa Cruz County...
The beautiful Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds are growing even more beautiful thanks to a colorful landscaping project at Paddy Smith Park.
Jeff Rosendale, with Sierra...