The Mountain Gardener | Native Plants Offer Many Varieties
Most of us would love to have a garden containing all California native plants growing happily in an ecosystem where everybody wins—birds, bees, insects, wildlife and us, of course. Our garden would contain flowers, shrubs, grasses, ground covers and trees all providing food, water,...
Mayor’s Message | Investing in Safety and Strengthening Community Through Service
One of the greatest privileges of serving as your mayor is having a front-row seat to the dedication and quiet heroism of those who serve our city every day. This month, I want to highlight the incredible work of the Scotts Valley Police Department—and...
Guest Viewpoint | A Water Agency’s Perspective on Fighting Wildfires
Cal Fire is observing Wildfire Preparedness Week from May 4-10, 2025. This week is an opportunity to build awareness around the measures that individuals, communities and local agencies can take to prepare for wildfire.
As a water agency, our staff here at Scotts Valley Water...
The Mountain Gardener | 1,000 Columns and Still Growing Strong
It all started back in 2005 when my first column was published in the newly combined San Lorenzo Valley Press and the Scotts Valley Banner, which was re-named the Press Banner. This is how it all began.
My father wanted me to be a writer...
Finance | Hemming, Hawing and Hedging Options
“Concision in style, Precision in thought, Decision in life.” —Victor Hugo
We are a nation of consumers and investors, hemming, hawing and hedging with Trump, who flaunts law and principles. Unsure of securities? Avoid panicky flight to historically low-paying interest investments; seek principle. But balance...
Plain Talk About Food | Ocean’s Bounty
My entire life has revolved around our ocean’s bounty, whether it be in the fierce beauty of storms I’ve witnessed living next to its waters in Ventura or during my early years living in Aberdeen, Wash.
My winter memories are of fog lying low along...
The Mountain Gardener | Flowering Dogwoods for the Santa Cruz Mountains
I don’t know if I like the pink ones or the white ones best. A flowering dogwood in any shade is stunning. My friend Colly, the food columnist for the Press Banner, has several dogwoods in her garden, including a Cherokee Brave with dark...
Strictly Business | Cook Your Way Around the World
By exploring global flavors, Barbara J’s Organics Spice Shop brings the art of cooking to life—one delicious blend at a time.
Barbara Johansen, owner and creator of Barbara J’s Organics Spice Shop, invites food lovers of all levels to transform their meals into flavorful adventures....
Fitness | Balance Isn’t Just for Seniors
How’s your balance? Having good balance isn’t just for seniors. Stability is necessary at any age, maintaining good balance is critical for preventing falls and maintaining your independence for years to come.
Falls can have serious consequences for most, but especially for older adults. For...
TherapyWorks | Stress Looks Different on Everyone
We often think of stress as something we “just deal with.” But the truth is, it impacts our relationships, health and our ability to show up fully in everyday life.
One of the most important things we can do is learn how to recognize stress...
News Briefs | Published July 11, 2025
‘Veterans’ Voices with VTC’ debuts on Santa Cruz Voice
The Veterans Transition Center (VTC) and Santa Cruz Voice have partnered to launch “Veterans’ Voices with...