Columns

Since launching Faves & Raves in 2007, the Press Banner has sought to highlight the best establishments in Scotts Valley and the San Lorenzo Valley. This year, we make the pivot to the Best of Scotts Valley and San Lorenzo Valley, determined by the...

“I am thankful for small mercies. Some people expect only the best. I found that I begin at the other extreme…expecting nothing and am always full of thanks for unexpected blessings.” —Tim Man Lee, Wildlife Photographer Since moving to my small “slice of Heaven” here...

Halloween is just around the corner and besides deciding what you or the kids are going to be this year, it’s time to bring in any plants that you plan to overwinter in the house. Whether they're the houseplants that you put out on...

It has proven itself true—that one alone is on a walk, but two together are going somewhere—and our nonprofit, Damians Ladder, has shown this to be a perfect example of “partnering,” going somewhere together. As a small child, my aunt and uncle would take me...

The weather has been perfect for us to have great fall color this year. Because it’s been warm during the day and chilly at night I’m looking forward to the show. Many trees and shrubs are already showing color because they are stressed from...

If you, like me, were born between 1930 and 1946 (worldwide), you are one of the rare surviving senior citizens of this special group. Your age range is between 77 and 93 years old and you are the last who can remember the impact...

June is Professional Wellness Month. The goal of Professional Wellness month is to shine a light on the important role the workplace plays in creating a holistic environment for employees and how organizations can support the mental and physical wellbeing of their employees. Why Is...

Every garden I visit these days has at least one gorgeous rhododendron in full bloom. They can’t help but be spectacularly covered with those huge flower trusses. They sure make you stop and take notice. I still miss the two old ones I had...

San Lorenzo Valley Water District (SLVWD) ratepayers soundly defeated Measure U, the proposal to roll back much of the rate increase put in place earlier this year, and elected Alina Layng and Bryan Largay to the SLVWD Board. In so doing they have sent...

Yes, it is happening and official. Santa Cruz County Health Officer Gail Newel has allowed the city of Scotts Valley and the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce to host its 20th Art, Wine and Beer Festival with Cops’ N Rodders on Aug. 21-22. This spectacular event...