Opinion

Doug Tjapkes celebrates 45th year serving in church music programs
Wed, Nov 18, 2009
Doug Tjapkes has a big heart for men in prison — especially the mentally ill inmates. He is also a talented pianist for church singing and concerts.

Girl's birthday wish comes true: help for the animal shelter
Tue, Nov 17, 2009
Audrey Bowers was looking forward to her birthday this month. Her parents planned a birthday party, so she knew there would be plenty of presents from her friends.

Tattered lives, tattered bookstore
Thu, Nov 19, 2009
Note from the columnist: I wrote this several years ago after a trip to visit my brother. I reread it a few days ago. It reminded me of so many who are in need in our country today.

A little bird pointed the way to the grave
Fri, Nov 13, 2009
A little bird perched on top of the cross of a tombstone in a national cemetery ended a heartaching search for a beloved wife after her husband couldn't find the tombstone.

Beach towns are all alike — except where they're different
Thu, Nov 12, 2009
SAN DIEGO — We walked along Harbor Drive, admiring condominiums with a view of the water. We strolled up one one-way street and down another, surveying the options for dining and shopping. We took to the boardwalk, where joggers and walkers enjoyed the nautical scenery while getting in some exercise.