Making sense of air monitoring (Part 1) Most of the time, you cannot see dirty air – for example you can’t see particulates. We know that particulates increase the age-specific mortality risk, particularly from cardiovascular causes. In fact, epidemiological studies suggest public health officials are underestimating the effect of acute pollution exposure on mortality and […]
Letter: Plenty of blame in unsettled contract
Plenty of blame in unsettled contract We attended the Benicia High graduation ceremony and were impressed with the accomplishments of the graduates. Student academic accomplishments were highlighted, a record number of scholarships were noted (top-rated colleges were the destination of many), athletic team championships were listed and plentiful, and a fantastic performing arts program involving […]
The Truth About Cruising (Part 7): Favorite ports
The Benicia Fullosopher My favorite ports are those with ancient cities, folk art, glorious natural beauty, or unique architecture. For architecture: Barcelona, Spain—a showcase for the whimsical Gaudi creations. Singapore—a city that combines natural beauty with contemporary architecture and offers the ease of touring on your own. Just a short walk within the ship’s terminal […]
Letter: Great Vallejo Choral Society concert
Great Vallejo Choral Society concert Kudos, awe and aahs to the Vallejo Choral Society’s end of season concert. Did you ever wonder what it’s like to leave the restraints of gravity and soar to heavenly realms? It wouldn’t be too far off to say that it was like having an out of body experience, where […]
Letter: Some perspective on history
Some perspective on history The study of history is important, if for no other reason than it may help us to avoid repeating it. However, at times it is most important for those of us who have experienced history to take the time to be sure that whatever those lessons may be are not lost. […]
Andrew Kelly: Why Trump’s auto tariffs don’t make sense
Many in America have been understandably alarmed by our president’s yearning to place tariffs of up to 25 percent on imported automobiles. And, while many have made very compelling moral arguments as to why it is wrong to place expensive tariffs on products from our own allies, I figured that as someone who has closely […]
A Vibrant Faith for the 21st Century: A time to disobey
“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God” (Romans 13:1, New International Version [NIV]). “The midwives, however, feared God and did not do what the king of Egypt had told them to do; they let […]
Letters: Vallejo Admirals and Buddy Poppy drive
Support the Admirals I had so much fun at opening night for our Vallejo Admirals on Thursday May 31! We best Pittsburgh 15-3! We beat them again on Friday June 1! Going to the Admirals’ games is the highlight of my summer season. For just $5 a ticket (cheaper if you get the group rate […]
Letters: Regional Measure 3, Carquinez Village and Daryl Snedeker
Is the mayor losing her political grip? A couple of very interesting things have happened lately. One is the delay of the water increase and the other is Regional Measure 3, also known as the bridge toll increase measure. The vote on the water delay increase was a 2-2 tie, which means no action was […]
Letters, Poetry scholarship, Tom Ferrara for sheriff, and corporate free candidates
Poetry scholarship a success On Thursday evening, May 24, it was my great pleasure to present the 2018 Joel Fallon Poetry Scholarships at the Benicia High School Awards Night. One scholarship went to Caitlyn Clark, an extraordinary slam poet and performance poet who has distinguished herself in the world of poetry since she was 14; […]