Now that the New Year has begun and we have made resolutions we may or may not keep, filled in the new calendar pages and look forward to what we can do to make this world a better place, I would like to share with you a simple act of blessing that we experienced this holiday season.

There has been recent interest about what’s going on at Alameda Marina.

This being the last day of the year, you have this final chance to make a difference in your community. Thoughts of who or what to support with end-of-year contributions often range the gamut of international causes: the environment, health, human rights, poverty, even the arts. 

Your Dec. 24 article “Councilman, Mayor Accused of Breaking Law” sent me hurdling over the solstice gifts to get to my stash of Rolaids and chamomile tea extract.

Towards the end of November someone who obviously cares a lot about the content of the Alameda Sun, but not enough to identify themselves left an unpleasant letter and a ripped up newspaper behind.

Lately I’ve gotten into the habit of reading on the Alameda Police Department’s Daily Activity Log just to see what is happening in Alameda that is more than what is being reported in the papers.

Letter writer Claire Coustier (see adjoining commentary) inspired us to put our own opinions into writing regarding the city of Alameda’s lack of attention to the building they own directly across the street from City Hall. 

Santa-followers throughout the world were thrilled to learn that he and his new chief elf, Quaznor, may soon speak to them from the North Pole via videoconference. A specific time for the event was not disclosed.

I think that it’s important to get the word out that one of Alameda’s most recognized locations is in danger of being bulldozed and replaced by high-density townhomes and condominiums. I’m talking about the Alameda Marina.

I try to understand and comprehend mass shootings at schools, movie theaters, homes, churches, community centers and businesses but I am not at all successful. What is it like to be in a room where someone is indiscriminately shooting people?