The current state of our schools
The effects of the pandemic continue to negatively affect learning in our public schools, and recent reports indicate the nature of the problem is...
What to expect from Social Security in 2022
Over 50 million Americans rely on Social Security for at least a portion of their retirement income. When you consider that 180 million people...
Aging in place: Is it for you?
Because there is “no place like home,” aging in place may have many benefits: it can cost less if you own your home, slow...
Growing onions in the desert? No need to cry
Perhaps you’ve had the same experience: onion bulbs from the big box stores that never develop into the big, dry ones like you buy...
Take it easy in the new year
One year ago, we thought 2021 would pass quickly. The effects from the Covid Virus have held steady with many consequences. Those realities have...
Learning to read in Maricopa schools
For several years, emphasis has been placed on the learning of mathematics and science in the elementary grades, yet nobody disputes that the most...
The Roselle: A tropical plant that’s found a new home in Maricopa
By Amanda Rice
Hibiscus sabdariffa or roselle, is known by a number of names across the world, including Jamaican sorrel, Flor da Jamaica, Florida cranberry,...
Holiday gift suggestions
In an attempt to reduce holiday stress, I’m going to provide you with some gift suggestions for friends and loved ones. Of course, in...
Traveling by air just got easier
Traveling by plane is one of the safest and fastest ways to get to your destination. But crowded airports, long waits at security checkpoints,...
Helping senior loved ones enjoy the holidays
With the holidays right around the corner, it’s an ideal time to start planning for the festivities. Enjoying the holiday cheer will help maintain...
The beauty of mathematics
What is mathematics?
To many readers of this column, it is subject matter you must learn in school with a series of rules and methods...
Brandenburg: Are your end-of-life affairs in order?
We’re not getting any younger. So, you may want to make end-of-life decisions to protect your loved ones. This might not be the most upbeat...
Tech careers for non-tech people
It’s no secret that careers based in the technology sector are amongst the most sustainable and future-proof.
What’s not so obvious is that anyone can...
Smith: Dealing with uncertainty, leave them laughing!
Back when I was hiring employees, I would always add a couple of extra desired skills to the job description— the ability to deal...
Master gardener: Keep poinsettias bloomin’ and beautiful through holidays
Poinsettias are one of the most symbolic plants of the holiday season.
So popular, they account for about one-quarter of all flowering potted plant sales.
With...
Enhancing elementary school learning
The word “elementary” has two seemingly conflicting definitions. For some, elementary means basic or simple as when Sherlock Holmes said, “Elementary, my dear Watson.”...
RAM Academy proof of MUSD override success
In 2016, the voters of Maricopa approved a budget override for the local school system, Maricopa Unified School District. The funds were used to...
Meet the Maricopa Master Gardeners – and become one
Let’s explore the Master Gardener program in Maricopa. But first some history on two key related organizations.
The Land Grant College Act of 1862 ceded...
Algebra a tough equation to solve
Algebra (specifically, high school algebra) truly is a gatekeeper to a student’s future.
Non-technical college degrees generally require completing a college algebra course, which might...
Brandenburg: Keep your heart healthy, live longer
By Al Brandenburg
Our heart is the hardest-working muscle in our body, and heart disease is a leading cause of death. So, it’s important to...
Koczor: Nonprofit offers variety of services to seniors
The nonprofit Pinal-Gila Council for Senior Citizens was incorporated in 1974 and designated an Area Agency on Aging. It is part of a national...
Smith: Sleep – it’s a big deal!
On average, adults need about 7-9 hours of sleep. Researchers say people can survive longer without food than without sleep! It’s a time for...
Dog days of summer cause panting foliage
By Al Brandenburg
Although we've made it through the hot, dry months of June and July, our vegetable gardens have pretty much given up the...
Koczor: Why you may want a home warranty
Many of you have been in your home for a number of years – along with the same major appliances or mechanical systems.
Generally, when...
So, what is backyard orchard culture?
A philosophy advanced by Dave Wilson Nursery in California, wholesale supplier of
fruit trees to many of the better nurseries in Arizona, espouses high-density planting,...
Smith: An involved citizenry strengthens community
What is community engagement?
For some it is civic engagement, or active participation in your community, perhaps voting, volunteering or joining organizations. According to Thomas...
Brandenburg: Long COVID may result from autoantibodies
BY AL BRANDENBURG
An increasing number of COVID-19 survivors are experiencing symptoms weeks or months after the infection has cleared in what is known informally...
A senior center, defined
With a senior center opening soon here in Maricopa, it’s an appropriate time to consider what one should provide.
Senior centers should:
• Serve as a...
Koczor: C’mon man, it’s time to get healthy
Some men just don't like talking about their health.
Even when they see a doctor, one of five men admit they haven’t been completely honest...
Brandenburg: Seniors, are you drinking enough water?
By Al Brandenburg
The triple digits are upon us and the summer forecast promises more scorching temperatures. The extreme heat underscores the need for seniors...