Opinion

Seniors face burden of increasing property costs Regarding Patrick Johnston's letter on Sept. 20: I too am concerned about the increase in property taxes proposed this year, as well as affording the ever-increasing exorbitant homeowners insurance costs. I have children and grandchildren that I hope...

Editor’s Note: The first half of the interview with Chief Isaac Blum of Felton Fire Protection District (FFPD) was published on Sept. 13, 2024. The second half of that interview follows. Chief Isaac Blum was introduced to the FFPD firefighting squad in early July 2024....

What happens if you don’t pay taxes? The IRS, or FTB, writes to say you owe and you concede the amount. To remind us all that taxes are compulsory and no say on expenditures, the IRS can prosecute for tax fraud, but courts and...

Coming from a meeting with a client in Scotts Valley today, I saw a really well designed dry creek bed. I didn’t get a picture today, but I’ll go back, it was that good. How will this year’s La Niña affect our rainfall? According...

Entering Skypark last Saturday, during the Multicultural Fair, I heard the first words from “The Lion King" being sung by students, doing their best rendition of the “Circle of Life.” Being blasted by 95-plus temperatures, I surmised the production had thought of everything, even...

Measure S imposes unfair burden on younger homeowners The proposed Measure S seeks to increase property taxes to fund the new fire station — I believe this is unfair because it taxes younger, more financially-stressed families in Scotts Valley. As proposed, the property tax increase would...

As a licensed therapist and mental health expert, I have seen firsthand how the stigma surrounding suicide and mental health challenges can prevent individuals from seeking the help they need. The fear of judgment can deter people from seeking professional care, opening up to...

“All of us at some time or other, need help. Whether we are giving or receiving help, each one of us has something valuable to bring to this world. That’s one of the things that connects us as neighbors in our own ways, each...

Summer is winding down. It’s still warm during the day but the nights are cool and there’s less and less daylight hours. The soil is still warm so it’s the perfect time to start thinking about planting. Like the saying goes, “gardening is a...

Editor’s Note: This is a continuation of a series of articles on the Felton Fire Protection District. This installment is a focus on Felton’s new interim chief, Isaac Blum, and the strengths and vision he brings to the faltering department. Felton Fire Protection District’s (FFPD)...