Columns

Across the world and here in Scotts Valley, people’s paychecks are being stretched like never before. With U.S. inflation running at its highest rate in the last 40 years, virtually everything requires more money—bacon now costs what steak used to, eggs are approaching $5...

“Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” - Theodore Roosevelt I know exactly the time and date and where it was that I realized I was aging.   It was on my 50th birthday. I sitting at my dressing table when I discovered my first grey hair on...

With the recent tragic shootings across the Nation including Uvalde Texas, there is encouragement with the historic bipartisan action taken by Congress. It’s been challenging to balance an individual’s 2nd Amendment rights while protecting public safety. Recent action taken by Congress will make a...

“Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased  at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God!   I know not course others may take, but as for me,   give me liberty or give me death!” - Founding father Patrick Henry                    While riding in...

When you think of superheroes’ characteristics, what comes to mind? You might think they have superpowers and they fight against oppression and wrongdoing. But in business today, just being fair is nothing compared to having the ability to lead and engage others to become their...

You never think that the last time is the last time. You think there will be more. You think you have forever, but you don’t. - unknown I believe it was in 1977 while my Hubby Norm and I were living in Santa Barbara, that he announced, “we...

Recently I spent some time in a friend’s garden in Bonny Doon. This spectacular garden was included on Valley Church’s Garden Tour several years ago when several Bonny Doon gardens were featured. As in many gardens, there are some sunny spots and lots of...

I regularly visit my burned parcel in Bonny Doon to monitor the progress of the redwoods and understory plants. It will take 30-50 years for the forest to regenerate, but it’s trying.  Amazing how Mother Nature takes advantage of voids. Succession plants like native Yerba...

Are you ready for some plain talk?               “The time will soon be here when my grandchild will long for the                 cry of a loon, the flash of a salmon, the whisper of spruce needles or                   the screech of an eagle. But he will not make friends with...

The month of May has gotten off to a great start with exciting developments throughout the Fifth District. Last week, I was pleased to join other elected leaders in our county in celebrating the construction kick-off for the Highway 17 Wildlife Crossing, a project designed...