Editor’s note: There are 10 propositions on the Nov. 5 Presidential Election ballot. Props 2 and 4 are requesting approval for the State to issue $20 billion in new bonds. Prop 2 funds are for education facilities, such K–12 public schools (including charter schools) and community colleges. Proceeds authorized by Prop 4 would go toward…

Issues of local food security and sustainability have come into focus recently as part of an informal dialogue session known as The Conversation. Since mid-September, a group of locals from disparate political and ideological backgrounds have come together to discuss such varied topics as Thomas Jefferson and the banking crisis.

Idyllwild Water District Director Geoffrey Caine has submitted his resignation effective March 1. With much regret, Caine said health problems are taking longer to improve than he wished and are forcing his departure from the board. In his letter, he wrote, “This is very disappointing. I wanted to become a director in part to help…