I recently attended a birding festival in California. My week was filled with adventure, appreciation, laughter and learning. I thought I’d share some of the highlights with you.

No matter your garden style, you are likely to find a place for this year’s Perennial Plant of the Year: blackhawks big bluestem. You’ll enjoy the beauty it adds to your gardens and the low maintenance it requires to thrive.

When patients are rushed to the hospital for trauma or an emergency, their clothing may be damaged as a result of procedures related to their medical care.

If no family or friends are available to help provide replacement clothing, patients may sometimes leave the hospital with simple, serviceable attire.

Team members at ThedaCare recognized this and used the opportunity to help enhance this aspect of patient care.

Our friends Dick and Helen are keeping busy these days. A few weeks ago, they adopted Promise, a lovable cocker spaniel. Promise’s arrival was greeted by Lily, her new 2-year-old “sister.” Until Promise joined the family, Lily was inconsolable after losing her buddy, B.B., who crossed the rainbow bridge last year. Lily cried almost nonstop whenever our friends left the house.

Applications are now available for the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Wisconsin Agriculture Youth Council.

Current high school juniors are encouraged to apply through March 31.

As winter travel season continues, area banks are reminding consumers to take extra precautions to protect online accounts and personal information while away from home.