Across the Holler, a band led by my college friend Steve, found the most perfect place to play. Ocean Ciders is a pop-up Cider Bar at Pillar Point Harbor near Half Moon Bay. Steve, Elana, Dan, and Simon (here joined by a friend) laid down some beautiful vocal harmonies over an acoustic folk-rock playlist. The dog-friendly outdoor venue had comfy Adirondack chairs, some fire pits, and a great view of Half Moon Bay. ...

This is the California life! Just five minutes from our house, Portola Vineyards offers Sunday jazz under a redwood grove. Bring your own picnic and they supply the wine tastings. We enjoyed top notch Brazilian jazz from Marcos Silva, who writes his own compositions in a range of authentic styles. The bass player, Scott Thompson, nailed the low end and the compelling pulse of Brazilian music–and he also played fine solos with dexterity up on the high end of the neck. Gary Meek brought a range of winds to the tunes, including flute, alto sax and soprano sax. He reminded me of another great wind player I saw at the vineyard, Paul McCandless. I didn’t catch the name of the drummer and he also didn’t stand out. ...

Our town’s summer concert series featured blues artist Dennis Johnson on a warm evening. I enjoyed Dennis’s authentic tones on his collection of guitars. Also, his bass player was very talented. The tunes alternated between blues and sounds like the Grateful Dead. Alas, the band ultimately left the crowd, including me and Roy, feeling unengaged. There was nothing wrong with the music, but we left early. Details Location: Portola Valley Date: July 9, 2026 Attending: Roy, Jeremy

My visit to Seoul began at the Gyeongbokgung Palace, where I connected with colleague John Whitmer to see the changing of the guard parade. The palace was established in 1395 but did not make it to present day intact. Across the street, the Museum of Contemporary History shared the struggles of Koreans for freedom and democracy. A special exhibit shared current photos from the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Afterwards we strolled to Bukchon Hanok Village, an area with many restored wooden houses. A particular impressive compound was open for a free tour. The area is also full of upmarket stores and galleries–a bit touristy, but still fun. The steep streets make for good views that contrast the old with the new. ...

While attending the “Festival of Learning” research conference in South Korea, I took some time out for exploring the rich experiences that Seoul has to offer. 1. Changing of the Guard After one Lyft, a 12 hour flight, a two-hour airport bus, and a 45-minute subway ride, I found myself at Seoul’s Gyeongbokgung Palace on a bright sunny morning. Just in time for the changing of the palace guard. Drums were beaten. Trumpets blared. Conch shells honked. Crowds gathered. And the safety of the ancient grand palace was secured. ...