Murmurations of Being (King Salmon)

Watching snails copulate

on the sandy bluff beside the bay

Bubbles form tween their horns

shells sealed as one

motion imperceptible

A pet cemetery

a trail buffered twixt rock and field

New growth and old,

ossified turds nestle-in,

ice plants, pink, yellow

We come not to bury Fluffy

nor eulogize Spot

We nod to greet the living

commune with spirits

Listen to the lapping tide

Pelicans swoop, seagulls shriek,

single-file we follow the trail

Working off breakfast, notice

clouds, childhood memories

how polite and still it all is

Larry Crist, Trinidad

Letters to the Editor, Opinion

Needed: People Power

George Clark

July 30, 2026

To the Editor: The influence that personal experiences have on public opinion, public policy and allocation of public resources cannot be overemphasized. Voices of courageous individuals and media describing personal challenges, struggles and suffering are what form the foundation on which progressive legisla...

August 2026 - Animals Are People, Too, News

Life with 5 Goats Is Never Dull

By Vanessa Kibbe

July 30, 2026

I remember it well. Shortly after moving to our two acres in Westhaven from LA, Michael said “Look at all that blackberry! We should get a couple of goats.” We had a barn and a pen and lots of overgrown yard, so it seemed a good idea. After calling around, off he went in his truck and brought home an Alpine d...

HSRC News

PETS Keeps Seniors and Their Beloved Pets Together

By Ashley Gouthier

July 30, 2026

For many older adults, pets are more than companions — they are family, providing comfort during difficult days, purpose through daily routines and unconditional love that helps ease loneliness and isolation. Thanks to the support of generous donors, volunteers and community partners, Humboldt Senior Resource...

Columnists, Jennifer Heidmann's Column

ASK THE DOCTOR: Run, Ref, Run!

BY JENNIFER HEIDMANN, M.D.

July 30, 2026

As I watched soccer’s World Cup matches last month, I was left with one question: Is anyone more fit than a soccer referee? I am still trying to understand all the rules of international “football,” but thoroughly enjoyed seeing people from all over the world unite around this sport. There is something moving...