Talk about money: Insurance bought early can defray long-term care costs
“The idea of living a long life appeals to everyone, but the idea of getting old doesn't appeal to anyone.”
The Mountain Gardener: Fall tasks help the garden thrive come spring
It came out of the earth suddenly, pushing soil and plants that were in its way to the side. Just a bit of moisture had allowed this large clump of honey mushrooms to emerge and start its path to reproduction. At this time of year when the trees are turning the color of flame and some have already gone into dormancy it seems the earth is growing silent. Winter will soon be here. For nature life continues. Look around you and be thankful for the bounty, the restfulness, the time to enjoy these beautiful mountains that we call hom
It’s the Law: Want to buy a beach?
About a year ago I wrote a column about Martin’s Beach near Half Moon Bay, an idyllic crescent shaped beach that many consider the most beautiful in San Mateo County. A billionaire named Vinod Khosla bought all the land fronting the beach and gated off the only road that leads to Martin’s Beach. Since the beach has 75 foot cliffs on both the north and south ends, the only realistic access is via that one road. A few foolish people have suggested that people can come in by way of the ocean. They have obviously never had the entertaining experience of landing or launching a boat through the breakers. Seaworthy individuals do it, but grandma may object to this form of exercise.
Let’s go fishin’: Ocean salmon season set to close
The seasons are changing, and so are fishing regulations. The first large groundswell rolled through the bay and slowed the ground fish bite. Salmon season will close south of Pigeon Point this weekend as anglers start to gear up for Dungeness crabs.
Untarnished etiquette: Aging should not be seen as a negative
Our Western culture tends to idealize youth, while showing little respect or courtesy for our aging, mature population. However, many countries in the world honor their elder citizens. Age, in those societies, is symbolic of experience, wisdom and knowledge, which is shared with the younger generations.
Let’s go fishin’: Fall colors of California
As I fished a small stream in Lassen County for trout, I found it challenging to determine which was more beautiful — the fall colors of the aspen tree-lined stream or the trout that lie in its waters.
Your Health: Battling vision diseases
March is National Save Your Vision month — a good time to consider some of the more common eye diseases that could affect one’s vision.
The Mountain Gardener: Say hello to a new year in the garden
It's a humbling experience to read some of my past columns celebrating New Year’s. Once you write something down, it's there forever. Like a social media post, it can haunt you. I've set such lofty goals for myself over the years.
The Mountain Gardener: Flowering shrubs brighten early spring
In the spring, we are surrounded by flowers of every color. It's our reward after the winter.
The Mountain Gardener: Dramatic grasses serve function, add beauty
One of the most dramatic sights in a garden is an ornamental grass backlit by late-afternoon sun. They seem to come alive as their tawny flowers spikes glow and sway in the breeze.
News Briefs | Published Aug. 29, 2025
Supervisor Martinez to speak to North County Dems
Fifth District Supervisor Monica Martinez will be the guest speaker for the Democratic Club of North Santa...