Gary Mills said one of his childhood ambitions was to become a doctor or Superman. While Mills isn’t flying around as the Man of Steel, it would seem one of his wishes came true. Today, Dr. Mills owns and runs Pacifica Pain Management Services in St. Helena.

Six months ago, I did a column on how to thrive during a possible economic downturn. Today there are few businesses, small or large that has escaped the impact of this current recession. This is the time to develop a plan and use as many resources as possible to keep your business vital.

Dear Len & Rosie, My father died recently and the court made me the executor of his estate. I am the last survivor of his four children. My mother died many years ago. I thought I would inherit the entire estate, after Dad’s credit cards were paid off.

Continuing its support of the local community, Sterling Vineyards has distributed $20,000 from its Stars & Vines Fund with the Napa Valley Community Foundation.