Columnists

It has been a weird week, and my emotions have run the gamut. From excitement, nervousness and joy (before 2:50 p.m. on Marathon Monday) to shock, confusion, sadness and anger...to list a few.

Of course, every religious institution has its own method of choosing its leadership. The news recently guided us through the ancient process by which Francis I became Pope, leader of the Roman Catholic Church's one billion members.

This is not the easiest column to write, but is in many respects perhaps the most important one. There are two compelling reasons to read this; No. 1: Some day you may need to deal with the loss of a loved one and No. 2: Some day a loved one will deal with the loss of you. No, not the most popular subject, but necessary all the same.

The new and improved Exploratorium is like no other place on earth. Touch everything, explore, ask questions and lose yourself in displays in the six galleries with mind stretching exhibits. It covers 330,000 square feet and sits in a lustrous $300 million new home with a Ph.D. around every corner to answer your questions and head up the different displays.

Death Valley is the earth bare bones and naked. The light smattering of creosote bushes and cacti does not begin to disguise, even to a beginner’s eye, some of the simple features of the valley’s construction.

Oscar Wilde's “The Importance Of Being Earnest” was considered a hit in the 1800s and had been played just about everywhere since. His sharp wit and mastery of comedy in just the right places made this piece a gem and appreciated in the theatre world.

Before I formally begin this edition of The Flavor Chronicle, I would like to share with you that Sunday is the 53rd annual Morgan Hill Haru Matsuri (spring festival), which starts at 11 a.m. This is one of my favorite local festivals where you are surrounded by an abundance and variety of wonderful Japanese foods. Some of the food items include udon, sushi, manju and, of course, the much sought after and well-known chicken teriyaki boxes. If you don't already have plans for this Sunday, consider a visit and bring your appetite.