MEXICAN-AMERICAN DREAM

How a local immigrant became an honored friend and host to Vicente Fox [Nov. 21-28].

This is what dreams are made of, like Jose Buenrostro’s “benedicíon” blessings. Jose managed to overcome all obstacles that an immigrant encounters. Let’s learn and remind us that we are a nation of immigrants. His struggle is not a crime, it is a blessing Una benedicíon en hora buena José. —Salvador F. Muñoz

BOGUS BIKE PLAN

Seaside’s newest bicycle plan deflates hopes of a bike-friendly future [Nov. 21-28].

The 2007 bike plan: What 2007 Bike plan? Natural selection cobined with supply and demand will determine how many cars vs. bikes will be sharing the roads in the future. —Roy Jordan

FUNNIER THAN REPORTED

Big Sur savant Jeff Norman left a prodigious legacy before dying at 54 [Nov. 21-28].

For Jeff’s true sense of humor to come through, it should be noted that his heart surgery as mentioned in the article was to replace failing valves with new ones taken from a pig donor. “Friends like Jones recall that even during the toughest of times Norman retained his quirky sense of humor. Just a month ago, Norman awoke in a haze of anesthesia after undergoing heart surgery to replace failing valves with new ones from a pig donor. When the surgeon asked his dazed patient ‘So you know why you are here?’ Norman kept his eyes closed and oinked twice.” —Porky

NOT TOO COCKY

The sommelier certification test brutalizes a young wine pro [Nov. 21-28].

I empathize with you during this test. It sounds as though the master sommeliers are waiting for you to make a mistake. You have to go into the test self-assured but not cocky. Be impeccably dressed but not overdone. Because you’re young, you just have to prove yourself. —Donna

FINALLY FIGURED OUT

The Next Blues Band keep strummin’ [Nov. 21-28].

I’m a fan of the Next Blues Band, It’s about time Monterey did a story on one band that’s been around. My first time to hear them perform was Ocean Thunder and I was hooked on the sound from that day. Now I’m back in Reno, Nev. You are lucky to have them. Keep on strumming. Who knows, maybe you will make it to Reno. —Gloria

CLEANER GIVING

Making the holidays green is easier than you think [Nov. 8-14].

Another good idea is to use a (new) dishtowel or cloth napkins to wrap up presents. Can’t have too many of those around your kitchen. —Klo

SPRAYING BITTERNESS

Moth pheromone products’ health impacts are still uncertain [web exclusive].

I have had earaches and sore throats ever since I was assaulted by my terrorist government with checkmate in Monterey back in October. Gee, I just love being a lab rat with no recourse. —Dirk Bradley

HOT WEINER DOGGY

Riding in the Wienermobile rules [Nov. 15-21].

Growing up in Los Angeles, we’d pass by the Oscar Mayer plant en route to my grandparents’ house, where the Wienermobile was parked when not on the road. It was interesting seeing how the vehicle evolved into its present motorhome style. BTW, the outside of the factory had a mural depicting farm life, hiding the slaughter going on inside. —Drone 32b