Hero: Tax forms are daunting documents and many people miss out on earned credits and deductions because they can’t afford professional tax preparation. The Marin AARP Tax-Aide program comes to the rescue by providing free income tax services for seniors and low- to moderate-income taxpayers. Want to make a difference in your community and be part of the rewarding program that assisted more than 2,000 Marin residents this past tax season? Volunteer. Tax preparation training for 2018 starts soon and no experience is necessary. If you’re squeamish about numbers, volunteer for a greeter or translator position. The season runs from February to mid-April and volunteers are asked to work a five-hour shift per week. To learn more, email [email protected], or sign up at aarpfoundation.org/taxaide. Â
Zero: Folks in Mill Valley and Sausalito are rabid about a few coyotes making appearances in their neighborhoods. We hear tales of packs of coyotes trotting through the streets with their mouths full of pet cats, dogs and children. Peruse the community website Nextdoor and you’ll find fake news about local coyotes growing to giant sizes due to mating with wild wolves. One woman exclaims, “They are predators, no matter how cute you think they are. They need to be removed from the town!!!” Project Coyote suggests that we keep cats inside, walk dogs on leash and haze bold coyotes by throwing things near them and making loud noises. Our recommendation? Coexist with the wildlife you chose to live near or move to a concrete jungle.
