Opinion

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...

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...

“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...

Glenwood neighbors supported high school amid developer controversy “There was quite a bit of opposition to the high school, especially from the neighboring homes in the vicinity of the new campus.” This quote by Mark Witzig, from the April 18 article in the Press Banner...

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...

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...

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....

An Easter Story On Good Friday, I thought I was dead. A wealthy man named Joseph dressed me in linen clothing and took me to a windowless room below. From this otherworldly place, I emerged on Easter Morning to find pins piercing my feet that...

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...

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...