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After four years and nearly 200 “Getting Out” columns, I sometimes allow myself to believe I have a solid handle on the hiking options in Santa Clara County. As it turns out, there was a big hole in my knowledge, and it was right under my nose.

My mother’s garden is the whole Earth…within this sacred space my roots join the roots of every growing thing, my arms and fingers stretch to reach the moon, the leaves are talismans, and sap runs warm as blood.

One of his clergy colleagues refers to the Rev. Don Skow as “Hollister's Town Pastor” because of the close connection he has had with the community for decades. Skow explains that the success of his ministry has been due to his motto: “Don't compete, cooperate.”

The hype leading up to Gilroy boxer Robert Guerrero’s WBC welterweight title fight May 4 against Floyd Mayweather Jr. has unfolded like a soap opera.

You may have noticed something quite peculiar in the produce section and farmers market these last few weeks. What appear to be “pumped up” string beans are in fact fava beans. Many cultures around the world, including Italians, consume fava beans. In this week's column, I look to my Sicilian heritage for some fava bean inspiration in the form of my Grandma Virginia’s unique preparation for this vegetable.

Pet Friends announces the return of the Snip'N'Save Surgery Event! Special Price for cat neuter surgery, only $15.00 for each male cat. (Price does not include vaccinations.) Help reduce the number of homeless kittens and cats by reducing the number of unplanned kitten litters.

April is National Adopt-a-Greyhound-Month. Every year, rescue groups, including The Greyhound Project, put out the word that they have dogs looking for homes. There are large numbers of dog racetracks across this country, and greyhounds and whippets are the breeds of choice for trainers and gamblers in this sport.

Every spring millions of homeowner experience the annual ritual of getting their home ready for summer. For me, it starts with power washing the patio and pool decks, setting up outside furniture and getting the pool ready. And every year, as I pick up the paint brush, fire up the power washer and prep the pool, I wonder if there isn't an easier way. Although I enjoy having everything in tip top shape and having a nice place for family to visit, my motivation for home repair and maintenance isn't what it used to be. And frankly, I'm not convinced that I will get more motivated as I continue to age.

The Terracotta Warriors is a long moment in history that tells of what seems to be a never ending struggle for security in a violent and dangerous world. It is a saga of astonishing success, ingenuity, determination and the will to survive, and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world – known as The Eighth Wonder Of The World.