Columns

On one of my regular hikes with friends, I mentioned I was looking for another business to feature in this column. They suggested Spanky’s. I had eaten there before, but not enough to know much about Ashley Parry, the owner since 2013. Lucky me—I...

Summer often brings longer days, packed schedules and the best intentions to slow down and soak it all in—but in reality, life often speeds up. Between travel, work, family plans and shifting routines, staying in touch with the people who matter most can fall...

Contrary to the belief that Bagels and Lox were first contrived by the Jewish people, this delicious concoction made its way to America in the early 20th century by the Scandinavian fishermen as they immigrated through New York’s Ellis Island. Homes did not have refrigerators,...

I was such a little thing when Uncle picked me up and sat me down on a red leather stool that swiveled. Honestly, I remember clutching the counter in front of me because of any movement on my part, I would be going “down.” It...

“In a recent nationwide survey of working age Americans, 79% agree that the nation faces a retirement savings crisis…more than half of Americans (55%) are concerned that they cannot achieve financial security in retirement.” —Dan Doonan, Forbes Do not buy stocks because market timing feels...

Why is everyone talking about housing? Housing is too expensive and there are not enough homes. Many Scotts Valley workers cannot afford to live here, which increases traffic and makes it harder for businesses to hire and keep good staff.  Some residents would like Scotts...

Uniting a community in colorful celebration is no small task. It takes a community of hard workers, creative spirits and fun-seeking individuals to weave the tapestry of the upcoming Art, Wine & Beer Festival in Scotts Valley. For years, this event has brought families, dog...

The holiday season is a time of joy, connection and celebration, but it can also bring stress, overwhelm and even loneliness. Practicing gratitude can help you navigate the emotional ups and downs of this time of year by fostering a sense of contentment and...

I lost a dear “friend” sometime during the storms in January, which day or night I’ll never know…I wasn’t privy to its demise. I only know the evening during which I realized my friend Snag had disappeared from the horizon. My hubby Norm and I...

Post-operative bra comfort is a topic that gets little attention. But a new SLV business owner, Dr. Lisa Bunin (Lisa B.), has undertaken to change that by producing BraLisa—a super-soft, organic cotton bra, with moderate compression, for women recovering from breast surgery. After having breast...