Columnists

Have you noticed the growing number of shoppers who are bringing their own bags to the store? They seem to be coming in many different colors, shapes and sizes. I’ve seen the retro canvas bags that were common in the ‘90s, slick bags with store logos, designer bags purchased on Melrose Boulevard, and even pocket bags that fold up into small pouches. There’s no escaping it – bringing your own bag is now “in.” What does your bag say about you?

As a nation, we have come a long way since the civil rights

Millions of Americans have been watching our federal government wrestle with the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama Care. One side is touting the need for major medical reform that will insure millions of people who currently do not have coverage. They have produced hundreds of commercials and held countless press conferences speaking to our need for humanity and sensibility.

Assemblywoman Shannon Grove earlier this year told supporters at a campaign fundraiser that Assemblyman Luis Alejo, who represents Gilroy and Hollister, does not say the Pledge of Allegiance to the American flag at state legislative sessions. Other assembly members who work with Alejo say Grove’s accusation is untrue and Alejo has even led the flag salute. The hullabaloo sparked my curiosity to discover the genesis of the pledge to our nation’s flag. The truth will no doubt alarm Assemblywoman Grove, a Republican. Our nation’s Pledge of Allegiance was written by – gasp! – a socialist.

Ryan was defiant, angry and was dabbling in an abundance  of risky behaviors.  He wandered the streets when he should have been in school. He had little motivation and less self-esteem.  Ryan was sixteen years old and headed for trouble.

It can be done. All across America, families are meeting a mighty financial challenge - the challenge of paying college costs with retirement potentially on the horizon. How do they do it? They go about it consistently; they also get creative.