Editorial

Mylar balloons, new shoes and envelopes full of money always make good gifts for graduating students. And, this being June and the beginning of the local graduation season, it’s not too early to pick over suitable gift suggestions. But caution is urged. Not all gift categories fit all graduates. Clothing, personalized tattoos or inspirational books can really miss the mark. Graduates may be quite young with much more to learn, but they know exactly what they want. Especially when it concerns fashion, peer approval and mandatory tests for coolness.

Community garden oasis

Body oppression is defined as being treated less well because of something about your body (size, color, age, gender expression, disability).

Reflections on 9/11

Editor: At the last Planning Commission meeting, on Jan. 8, the Mill District development discussion included many speakers who voiced their concerns and criticisms of the project. Most demanded a significantly higher percentage of affordable housing be included. While I agree with these demands wholeheartedly, I want to bring up the sadly overlooked subject of Heritage trees. All too frequently during project presentations in recent years, including the Mill District, the developers have included in their plans the removal of Heritage trees. I have asked the city council and the Planning Commission before, and I am asking them now, to rethink their position on Heritage trees. The word “heritage” has the same root as inheritance; meaning something to be passed on to future generations. It is our duty to do so. If Heritage trees can be cut down for purposes of convenience and profit, then why bother with a special designation? It follows that the name Heritage tree is a misnomer. If the Council and Planning Commissioners have such little regard for our environment that they let investors get away with the destruction of such trees, then at least be honest and remove the designation “Heritage” from all trees.