Photo by Kevin Cole:        Big, Bad & Ugly Surf Contest 2009

Photo by Dennis Young:        Morro Rock

Photo by Malcolm Riordan:        USCG Surf Boats

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Peregrine Falcon image on banner by Cleve Nash

Art Talk by Jayne Behman

Regardless of the pleasures they offer, important events in our lives can be stressful. In the right circumstances, a certain amount of stress can enhance performance, like a job presentation or musical audition. 'Tis the season for major life changes—birth, marriage, graduation—all of which contribute to our stress levels, both positive and negative.  Read More

Genie's Pocket by Jeanie Greensfelder

4th OF JULY, CAYUCOS STYLE 

"When, in the course of human events . . . "
we come together in community,
celebrate independence in camaraderie,
add sand sculpture, beach play, balloons,     Read More

Great Shots by Jerry Kirkhart & Steve Corey

Our photo editors bring you some of their favorite coastal images for the month. This month's featured photographers include Mike Baird, Don Quintana, Maggie Smith, Barbara Ignatious, Bill Bouton, Pam Link, Carol DiNolfo, Mimi Ditchie, Beth Sargent, Teddy Llovet, Linda Tanner, Nan Calora, Chreyl Strahl, Dawn Beattie, Gary Powell, Steve Corey, Ashala Tylor, Jerry Kirkhart, Elizabeth Haslam, Anita Ritenour, and Greg Smith. See More

How to Mellify a Corpse - a Quick Look by Judy Sullivan

Egyptians used honey as an antiseptic, claiming nine hundred golden remedies with its use. The Greeks also believed in honey's ability to cure. Romans soaked their bandages in it. Mad honey, made dangerous from toxic nectar, destroyed military troops and added a special kick to wine. But the real kicker here is that Alexander the Great directed that his body be embalmed in honey, as the Babylonians had done with their dead. Read More

Observations of a Country Squire by George Zidbeck

Weather seldom deters me from my appointed morning rounds amidst the squiredom. Thus, with Cup o' Joe in hand about four years ago, I headed down the blacktop from La Casita. Just before crossing the bottom swale, I spotted a young doe twenty yards distant.  Although without spots, it had not yet matured into its full weight and height. In that the young animal seemed comfortably bedded down under a wooden bridge, I thought nothing of the matter. Read More

Wildheart by Mandy Davis

Al Azar (Random)

Orange on the horizon
rising red… que suave!
the howlers call
skin prickles in recognition
the wildness is here
In random, pure actions

Read More

Photo by Howard Ignatius: Valencia Peak