Come Join Scotts Valley 4-H!
Attention: Kids from 5 to 18! Come to a meeting at 6 p.m. on Monday, August 24, at the Community Covenant Church, 2700 El Rancho Drive, in Scotts Valley and join us for a spaghetti feed at 6:30 p.m. Members will be able to sign up for projects, upcoming events, and club activities.Upcoming events include many community service projects including a local beach cleanup and volunteering at the Scotts Valley Christmas Lighting Ceremony. There are great events such as the roller-skating club fun event and climbing at Pacific Edge in Santa Cruz. Additionally, fall projects such as archery, quilting, dirt track biking, wreath-making, leadership projects, ukulele, and a poultry showmanship workshop are available. Even more projects such as guitar, rabbit care, cooking, arts and crafts, Legos, beginning raising dairy goats, computer technology, chain mail and cooking are also available.With more than six million participants, 4-H is the nation’s largest youth development organization. The 4-H Youth Development Program offers many ways to improve public speaking, leadership, and citizenship skills. Members learn to achieve goals and feel proud about their accomplishments. Come and meet great new friends and learn important life skills! 4-H is a positive youth development organization that empowers young people to reach their full potential.Please go to our club website: www.scottsvalley4h.org; or email [email protected] by Irene Ervin, age 11, who is thrilled to be the Club Reporter. She plans toparticipate in archery, rabbit project, cooking and guitar projects.
Your Health: Smart Phone Medicine
It is estimated that one in five Americans have a health app on their smart phone. One of the first uses of such an app was to monitor vital signs such as a runner's heart rate, by connecting a sensor from the body to a smart phone.Smart phones are already in use to take blood pressures and even do an EKG. Currently in development is a product called iTest which will begin by testing for strep throat. This is done by swabbing the throat, placing the swab into a vial of liquid, which is then placed into the iTest device, and in turn, is plugged into the phone to be analyzed.The producers of iTest are also developing tests for HIV and MRSA, a common infection that is particularly difficult to treat. They are also working on tests for the flu, malaria and sexually transmitted diseases. Another test can detect troponin which will help verify if someone has had a heart attack. The iTest is anticipated to sell for about $150 plus the test kits.Other tests may soon be integrated with the cell phone. For blood it includes cholesterol, potassium, hemoglobin, kidney, liver, and thyroid function, and some toxins (poisons). For urine it can test for infections, protein, and HCG, a hormone to monitor high risk pregnancies. Saliva can be tested for influenza. It will even test ones breath for alcohol level, heart failure, and drugs like marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and amphetamines. In development are tests for certain cancers such as lung, ovarian, breast, and prostate, which will be detected by analyzing one's breath.In the works are apps that will allow one to wear wireless sensors to detect blood oxygen and blood glucose levels, blood pressure and heart rhythms. This information can be sent to your health care provider.There is now the ability to take a picture of a rash with a smart phone and download an app to process the image and receive a text with the most likely diagnosis. Then it will advise whether you can treat it yourself or if you should see your doctor.Also in development are hand held devices that can take X-ray, MRI, and ultrasound images which will incorporate the use of smart phones.With all this being said, the goal of the smart phone’s use in medicine is not just for individual use, but has tremendous applications for use in third world countries as well as remote and resource poor areas. Some of the information I have provided may seem quite farfetched, but I do believe it will become a big part of our future. -Terry Hollenbeck, M.D., is an urgent-care physician at Palo Alto Medical Foundation Santa Cruz in Scotts Valley. Readers can view his previous columns on his website,valleydoctor.wordpress.com, or email him [email protected]. Information in this column is not intended to replace advice from your own health care professional. For any medical concern, consult your own doctor.
Plain Talk about Food: Chilled Cucumber Soup
Often I think ‘what a wonderful life I’ve had, if only I’d realized it sooner’. Too late now to make major changes; I’ve decided to make the very best of what time is left.Married soon after high school, my plans were to become a ‘domestic diva’, another June Cleaver from the Leave it to Beaver TV show. I would send my kids off to school with pancakes, bacon and eggs ‘under their belts’ while waiting for my homemade bread to rise. I would head to the garden wearing a sunhat adorned with roses over my long golden tresses and pink rubber boots to match my hat.I would collect eggs from underneath my chickens, pick green beans and my favorite vegetable, cucumbers from my weed-free garden. Then, I would milk Molly, our family goat, daily.Then, reality and time set in. Clearly, it was only a television life that was in my thoughts.Molly ate my flowers, gophers ate my string beans and cucumbers, and weeds took over my garden. Clearly, this way of life was tougher than I had anticipated.Putting my ‘old life’ behind, several years passed. In the spring of 2002, I announced to my hubby, Norm that I had been looking through a “chicken catalog” and had come upon photos of ‘Polish’ chickens. “How cute is that Norm?” I said, “you are Polish and our chickens would be Polish too.”Norm’s only experience with any animals, much less chickens, was in a live display in Chicago’s Museum of Natural History when he was a child.“NO CHICKENS,” exclaimed Hubby! His normally pleasant-looking face had reduced itself to a no-nonsense ‘dammit, I mean it’ expression.I had to move fast — those 24 chicks were due to arrive at the post office on a nonrefundable order the next day. I had to reach Norm’s reasonable and sympathetic side quickly. That would be the only way those 24 baby chicks would be mine.Norm was furious, but I continued in a somewhat cajoling and syrupy voice; “not to worry, honey.” I said “we’ll put them in the garage on a card table in a big open box, hang a light bulb overhead and watch them grow. “ I told him “It is so simple, — you’ll learn to love them.”Sure enough, the next day the chickens arrived, and as we watched those chicks being warmed by the light bulb hanging overhead, I detected a smile on Norm’s face.The next day I was hospitalized, and in an instant, Norm became the primary caregiver to 24 baby chicks.During my recovery, those 24 chicks were growing so rapidly that their cardboard home had to be enlarged weekly, until finally they became airborne, flying and pooping on our car tops, windowsills and work benches as well as on the garage floor. Norm’s anger grew as fast as did those chicks.Finally a chicken house and yard were constructed, with only one hitch — an opening the size of a four week old chicken was left, and alas, half of our precious flock was gone during the night. A pile of feathers left by the coyote told the story. Norm was happy, I was sad.As the chicks grew it became apparent that we were left with seven roosters and only five hens; six roosters had to go. “Kill my roosters,” I screamed, “absolutely not”. It seems I had fallen into the old ‘you cannot eat a chicken you have named’ trap.Soon homes were found for those roosters and only Henery was left to guard the flock.Henery soon discovered he ruled the roost. He attacked anyone and everyone who came near his hens. He crowed whenever the moon shown at 3 a.m. or when we had company on our deck. Henery was a loud, majestic, beautiful Rooster. I loved Henery, Norm did not.In 2004 we made that decision that so many make, that of moving to be near our children. What about Henery? He moved along with his girls to a neighbor’s chicken yard where, I have heard, he is living still.CHILLED CREAM OF CUCUMBER SOUP (Serves 6)6 cucumbers 8” length, peeled, seeded and diced.1 cup leeks (white part only) or sweet onions, diced3 Tbsp. butter4 cups chicken broth1-1/2 tsp. white wine vinegar2 cups half and half cream4 Tbsp. quick-cooking cream of wheat2 tsp. chopped fresh dill½ tsp. tarragon1/2 cup sour creamSalt/white pepper to tasteDirections:In heavy pot, melt the butter and sauté the onions until translucent. Do not brown. Add cucumbers, broth, farina, vinegar and herbs. Simmer 30 min. Remove from heat and puree until smooth. Stir in cream and refrigerate. Garnish with sour cream.Add chicken stock and simmer for 15 min. Cool to room temperatureIn blender add cucumber mixture and blend until smooth.
New Faces (August 21, 2015)
Verano Sky Valdivia, a 9-pound 4-ounce boy, was born to Erin and Brian Valdivia of Boulder Creek at home. He was born on July 22, 2015.Brianna Chen, a 6-pound 1-ounce girl, was born to BaoZhen Zhu and Bin Chen of Scotts Valley at Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz. She was born at 4:46 p.m. on August 8, 2015.Ember NakitaGaddamilroy, a7-pound 1-ounce girl, was born to Rani Gaddam and Jedediah Patrick Milroy of Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz. She was born at 10:14 a.m. on August 15, 2015.Bennett Basile Piercy, a7-pound 12-ounce boy, was born to Cecelia Rose Basile and Andrew William Piercy, of Ben Lomond at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center in Santa Cruz. He was born at 12:57 p.m. on August 4, 2015.Logan Mitchell Bokariza, a7-pound boy, was born to Chenelle Kathleen [Becking] and Kyle Mitchell Bokariza, of Ben Lomond at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center in Santa Cruz. He was born at 12:57 p.m. on August 4, 2015.Emmanuel Omar Gutierrez, an8-pound 8-ounce boy, was born to Andrea Vanessa Longoria and Omar Alexis Gutierrez, of Watsonville at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center in Santa Cruz. He was born at 10:14 a.m. on August 5, 2015.
Datebook
Submit Datebook items to [email protected] or drop off press releases or photos at 5215 Scotts Valley Drive, Ste. F, Scotts Valley 95066. Deadline is 5 p.m. Tuesday. Entries are subject to editing, and publication is not guaranteed. Friday, August 21American Red CrossDetails: Blood donation opportunitiesWhen: 1:00 – 6:00 p.m.Where: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day SaintsAddress: 9545 Lovecreek Rd., Ben Lomond Sunday, August 23School Clean-up OpWhen: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.Where: SLV High School, 7105 Highway 9 in FeltonInfo: 335-3418 or [email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected] Wednesday, August 26Jazz musicWhen: 6 to 9 p.m.Where: Casa NostraDetails: Live jazz music featuring jazz duo Paul Trigg and Joe LeonardCost: No coverInfo: 609-6132 Thursday, August 27Willing Suspension Armchair TheaterWhen: 7 to 9 p.m.Where: Scotts Valley LibraryDetails: Funny Ladies: Musings & Memoir from Hilarious WomenCost: Free, but donations are appreciatedInfo: [email protected] Friday, August 28Pasatiempo Art ShowWhen: 4 to 7 p.m.Where: Historic Hollins House RestaurantDetails: This is a benefit for girls high school golf teams and all of the artists are from Pasatiempo,Info: Call Karen at (831) 818-3028 Sunday, August 30Music at SkyparkWhen: 2:30 to 6 p.m.Where: Skypark, Scotts ValleyDetails: Extra Large and The Joint Chiefs perform on outdoor stage, all food concessions support music programs in local public schools.Info: www.KiwanisoftheValleys.org Cost: Free Wednesday, September 2Sons in Retirement LuncheonWhen: 11:30 a.m. to 1:35 p.m.Where: Portuguese Hall 216 Evergreen at Coral St. (3 blocks past COSTCO)Details: Catered lunch by Barbara & Co. Talk by: Col. Brian Shiroyama former security officer for Air Force One, etc.Cost: $17Info: Call Dave at (831) 336-8481 by the Friday before the event. Thursday, September 3Boating safety and navigation three classes for registrationWhen: 7 to 8:30 p.m.Where: Santa Cruz Harbor Public Meeting Room, 365A Lake Ave. at the Harbor near the boat yardDetails: Boating Skills and Seamanship, Sailing and Seamanship, and Coastal NavigationInfo: [email protected]. Friday, September 4Jazz MusicWhen: 6 to 9 p.m.Where: Casa Nostra in Ben LomondDetails: Live Jazz Music Featuring Joy of JazzInfo: Casa Nostra at (831) 609-6132 or Joy at (831) 246-0349 Cost: Free Saturday, September 5Free SAT Practice ExamWhen: 8 a.m.Info: Call to Register (831) 515-7373 Sunday, September 6Jazz MusicWhen: 6 to 9 p.m.Where: Scopazzi’s Deck in Boulder CreekDetails: Live Jazz Music Featuring Joy of JazzInfo: Scopazzi’s at (831) 338-6441 or Joy at (831) 246-0349 Cost: Free Saturday, September 12Women with mood disordersWhen: 3 to 5 p.m.Where: Ease Mountain Yoga, Ben LomondInfo: 440-6970 Sunday, September 139th Annual Emergency Preparedness DayWhen: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.Where: Home Depot parking lot, 2600 41st Ave. in SoquelDetails: Emergency communication demonstrationsInfo: 462-5650 ext. 145 Wednesday, September 1639th Annual Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau Apple Pie Baking ContestWhere: Santa Cruz County FairDetails: The contest deadline is Wednesday, August 9 and cash prizes are awarded to the top pie makers in each division.Info: Jess Brown (831) 724-1356 or (831) 818-1193Cost: No entry free Sunday, September 20Santa Cruz Post Card and Paper Collectibles showWhen: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Where: The Hilton, 6001 La Madrona Dr. in Scotts ValleyDetails: An intimate post card experience.Info: [email protected] or 476-3262 Sunday, September 27Music at Skypark ConcertWhen: 2 to 6 p.m.Where: SkyparkDetails: Two bands, The Coffis Brothers and The Mountain MenCost: Donation proceeds from refreshments sale go to schoolsInfo: Kiwanis of the Valleys – 439-8018 ONGOING ConcertsWhere: Don Quixote’s International Music HallDetails: Reservations available online. Those under 21 must be accompanied by a parent.Info: www. donquixotesmusic.com Mountain Community TheaterPark Hall in Ben LomondWhen: August 21 through 22What: New Works Night: Frank and StellaDetails: An original play written by Ian McRae; Directed by Robin AronsonInfo and tickets: www.mctshows.org or 336-4777 Vegan potluckWhen: First Friday of the month at 11:30 a.m.Where: Saint Michael’s Community Hall in Boulder CreekDetails: We are the only location around trying to save all life on earth — now declining by over 100 species a day due to 8 billion humans killing everything that lives.Info: 338-3544 to RSVP or email [email protected]. Together in the ParkWhen: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. WednesdaysWhere: Felton Covered Bridge ParkDetails: Parenting resources, craft projects, music, stories and healthy snacks. Parents, family members or caregivers, and their children meet for play and group activities.Cost: Free Center for Animal Protection is recruiting foster families for dogsDetails: The Center for Animal Protection and Education (CAPE) is recruiting new foster volunteers for dogs awaiting permanent homes.Info: Nancy Eaton at 684-2421 San Lorenzo Valley “Women with Mood Disorders”When: The second Saturday of the month from 3:30 to 5:50 p.m.Where: FeltonInfo: [email protected] for details Sound MeditationWhen: First Sunday of every month from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m.Where: Mountain Spirit, 6299 Highway 9 in FeltonDetails: Discussion and practice on the use of sound to connect in meditation with Bruce ManakaCost: FreeInfo: Shelby at 335-7700 Gratitude WednesdaysWhen: First Wednesday of every month from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.Where: Mountain Spirit, 6299 Highway 9 in FeltonDetails: Mountain Spirit will donate 10 percent of sales to a local non-profit.Info: Shelby at 335-7700 Mountain Spirit’s Writing GroupWhen: First Wednesday of every month from 5 to 7 p.m.Where: Mountain Spirit, 6299 Highway 9 in FeltonDetails: Mountain Spirit's Writing Group is a creative writing class led by Wendy Ledger.Info: Shelby at 335-7700 Kids Fun Night at BC RecreationWhen: Tuesdays, 5 to 9 p.m.Where: Boulder Creek Recreation Center, 13333 Middleton Ave. in Boulder CreekDetails: Potluck please bring a dish to share. Fun filled evening for kids 2-11years. Movie, crafts, games, and fun.Cost: $20 per kid Cooking and Homestead Class for KidsWhen: Tuesdays, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.Where: Boulder Creek Recreation CenterCost: $15 per kid Bloom of the Present Weekly Monday Evening MeditationWhen: Mondays except for federal holidays, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Where: The Satellite, 6265 Highway 9 in Felton Info: 831-212-6641 or bloomofthepresent.orghttp:///h Touch Team iPad Memory classes at the LibraryMonday and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.Where: Scotts Valley Public Library, 251 Kings Village Rd. in Scotts ValleyDetails: Join us in this supportive social setting, for a series of innovative workshops that use iPads to engage the mind and activate memory. No experience is necessary and iPads are supplied by the library and individual coaches are present to help with activities.Info: Call to Register 427-7700 x 7615 Wilder Ranch Tours and Living History DemonstrationsWhen: Weekends from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.Where: Wilder Ranch State Park, 1401 Coast Rd, Santa CruzDetails: Visit an early day dairy ranch and step back in time to the late 1800’s at Wilder Ranch State Park. You can also play Victorian games or bring a picnic to enjoy on the front lawn, visit the farm animals and see what activities are taking place on the ranch this weekend, You may learn about hand quilting, watch blacksmithing, or wood stove baking techniques.Info: 426-0505 Redwood Loop WalkWhen: Saturdays, 1 p.m.Where: Big Basin Redwoods State Park, 21600 Big Basin Way in Boulder CreekDetails: Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Meet at park headquarters.Cost: FreeInfo: 338-8883 Old-Growth Redwood WalksWhen: every Saturday at 1 p.m.Where: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, 101 N Big Trees Park Rd. in FeltonDetails: Experience a guided forest adventure on a docent-led walk through the magnificent old-growth coast redwood forest. This is .8 mile long stroll lasting around 1.5 hours. The trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible.Cost: FreeInfo: 335-7077 Embroidistry at Om GalleryWhen: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. dailyWhere: Om Gallery, 1201 Pacific Ave. in Santa CruzDetails: Hand-embroidered interpretations of well-known masterpieces, album covers, and original compositions by Ben Lomond artist Mardeen Gordon.Cost: FreeInfo: Mardeen Gordon at 252-7446 First aid-CPR classWhen: Third Saturday of the monthWhere: Felton Fire Protection District, 131 Kirby St., in FeltonDetails: Ray Soler will lead a class for First Aid and CPR certification for community members. Times and registration details are available online or by phone.Cost: Free for district residents and employees of businesses within the district, $36 for all othersInfo: 335-4422 or www.feltonfire.com TOPS club meetWhen: Wednesdays from 10 to 11 a.m.Where: Meeting room in back of the Felton Fire DepartmentDetails: Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) is a group dedicated to loosing weight by encouraging healthy eating and lifestyle habits.Cost: First visit is free Tai Chi and Chi GongWhen: Fridays from 9 to 10 a.m.Where: Sky Park behind Parks and Rec., 361 Kings Village Rd. in Scotts ValleyDetails: Gentle movement supporting balance, stress reduction, and strengthening.Cost: $8 drop-in feeInfo: Mary Mulligan 335-9390 Valley Churches United Missions Food PantryWhen: Tuesdays through Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.Where: Valley Churches United Missions Food Pantry, 9430 Highway 9 in Ben LomondDetails: School supplies and back packs for low-income families in need.Cost: FreeInfo: Preregister at 336-8258 x 221 Scotts Valley Senior Center Book WormsWhen: Third Friday of the month, from 1 to 2:30 p.m.Where: Scotts Valley Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd. in Scotts ValleyDetails: A senior-oriented book club organized by the Scotts Valley Senior Center.Cost: $2 for members, $3 for non-membersInfo: 438-8666 Fridays at Five food distributionWhen: Fridays from 5 to 6 p.m.Where: GateWay Bible Church, 5000 Granite Creek Rd. in Scotts ValleyDetails: Food distribution to those in need. Every Friday, tables of groceries will be set up near the carport at the church office.Info: [email protected] or 438-0646 Line Dance classesWhen: Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.Where: Boulder Creek Recreation Center, 13333 Middleton Ave. in Boulder CreekDetails: Line Dance Instructor Amber Blavin will lead a weekly line dancing class. No partners are needed to attend.Cost: $5 per class or donationInfo: (408) 712-2287 or [email protected] SLV Museum exhibitWhen: Wednesday through Sunday 12 to 4 p.m.Where: SLV Museum, 12547 Highway 9 in Boulder CreekDetails: “Crystals, Caves, and Kilns” explores the natural and cultural history of limestone, lime, and marble in the Felton and Santa Cruz areas.Cost: DonationsInfo: 338-8382 Improv theater games and exercisesWhen: Sundays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.Where: Boulder Creek Recreation Center, 13333 Middleton Ave. in Boulder CreekDetails: Heidi Drew will lead two hours of improvisation theater classes. Beginners are encouragedCost: $5Info: [email protected] Live jazz at Casa NostraWhen: Wednesdays and Fridays from 6 to 9 p.m.Where: Casa Nostra, 9217 Highway 9 in Ben LomondDetails: Casa Nostra will host live jazz music.Cost: FreeInfo: 609-6132 SLVHS bingo fundraiserWhen: Mondays, 4 p.m.Where: Portuguese Hall, 216 Evergreen Street in Santa CruzDetails: A weekly 18-game bingo program to benefit the athletics programs at San Lorenzo Valley High School.Info: 335-4425 Big Basin Trail Crew volunteer dayWhen: Second Saturday of the month, 9 a.m.Where: Big Basin Redwoods State Park, 21600 Big Basin Way in Boulder CreekDetails: Volunteers (18 years of age or older) will meet at Park Headquarters to spend a day — rain or shine — working to maintain and preserve the park’s trails.Info: www.bigbasintrailcrew.org Boulder Creek ZumbaWhen: Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.Where: Boulder Creek Recreation and Parks District, 13333 Middleton Ave. in Boulder CreekDetails: Cecelia Kelly will lead a weekly Zumba class. Participants will get a great workout in a dance party atmosphere.Cost: $10Info: http://ceciliakelly.zumba.com Senior pinochle gameWhen: Tuesdays at 2 p.m.Where: Scotts Valley Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd. in Scotts ValleyDetails: An open game of pinochle.Cost: $2 for members, $3 for non-membersInfo: 438-8666 Free laughter yogaWhen: Sundays, 10:30 a.m.Where: Luminescence Day Spa and Tea Room, 13140 Highway 9, in Boulder CreekCost: FreeInfo: Lizzie Lochner, 338-7546 Toastmasters clubWhen: Wednesdays, 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.Where: St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 5271 Scotts Valley Dr., in Scotts ValleyDetails: The Redwood Ramblers Toastmasters meets weekly to help members build confidence as public speakers and leaders.Info: 435-9308 or http://8203.toastmastersclubs.org Poetry circle, workshopWhen: Third Saturday of the month, 2 to 4 p.m.Where: Scotts Valley Branch Library, 251 Kings Village Rd., in Scotts ValleyDetails: Magdalena Montague, a local poet and teacher, leads classes for prospective poets of all skill levels.Cost: FreeInfo: [email protected] or 427-7717 Senior line dancingWhen: 12 p.m. Tuesdays and 9 a.m. FridaysWhere: Scotts Valley Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd., in Scotts ValleyDetails: Biweekly line dancing and lessons are offered by the Scotts Valley Senior Center.Cost: $2 for members, $3 for nonmembersInfo: 438-8666 to confirm Zumba for seniorsWhen: 6 p.m. Mondays, 9 a.m. Tuesdays and 9:30 a.m. ThursdaysWhere: Scotts Valley Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd., in Scotts ValleyDetails: An instructor-led Zumba class encourages exercise in a fun, rhythmic environment.Cost: $3 for members, $5 for nonmembersInfo: 438-8666 Beginning ballet for fitnessWhen: 4:30 to 5 p.m. MondaysWhere: Agape Dance Academy, 104 Whispering Pines Dr., Room 5, in Scotts ValleyDetails: This introductory beginner class emphasizes fitness through dance.Cost: FreeInfo: 359-0850 Line dance, weightsWhen: 9:45 to 11 a.m.Where: Highlands Park Senior Center, 8500 Highway 9, in Ben LomondDetails: $2 for members, $3 for nonmembersInfo: 336-8900 BingoWhen: 1 to 3 p.m. WednesdaysWhere: Scotts Valley Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd., in Scotts ValleyDetails: All adults are welcome. The game is sponsored by Project Scout (Senior Citizen Outreach).Cost: 50 cents per card, one card free with four or moreInfo: 438-8666 Tai Chi classesWhen: 9:45 to 10:30 a.m. MondaysWhere: Highlands Park Senior Center, 8500 Highway 9, in Ben LomondCost: $3 members, $5 nonmembersInfo: 336-8900 Genealogical society meetingWhen: 1 to 3 p.m., first Thursday of the monthWhere: Central Branch Library meeting room, 224 Church Street in Santa CruzDetails: Lectures for beginning to advanced genealogy enthusiasts.Cost: FreeInfo: 427-7707, ext. 5794, or Janine Charlton, [email protected] Senior exercise classWhen: 10 a.m. Mondays and FridaysWhere: Scotts Valley Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd.Info: The class incorporates strength, balance and coordination exercises for complete body conditioning for men and women age 50 and older, led by retired physical therapist Cherry Nittler.Cost: $2 members, $3 nonmembers Drop-in meditation groupWhen: 7 to 8:45 p.m. MondaysWhere: The Satellite, 6265 Highway 9, FeltonDetails: Beginning and experienced students of meditation will participate in 40 minutes of silent meditation, followed by a dharma talk and discussion by Carla BrennanInfo: http://bloomofthepresent.com Beginners’ line dancingWhen: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. ThursdaysWhere: Boulder Creek Recreation, 13333 Mid
Ben Lomond Is Lit Up
Local pundits thought that the election of McKinley in November, 1896, foretold a good season for Ben Lomond’s dueling hotels. The Mountain Echo of Boulder Creek agreed, adding that “Ben Lomond is fortunate in her two leading citizens and property holders,” praising the “enterprising spirit” of the rival developers “as they vie with each other in improvements.”On the south side of town, the Hotel Rowardennan continued to grow. The Sentinel predicted that it would “be crowded with beauty and fashion from San Francisco and across the bay.” Thomas L. Bell lost no time replacing his burnt-out residence with two good-sized buildings full of guest suites. In its initial season, guests of his Hotel Rowardennan had enjoyed the benefits of “Lake Bell.” The high dam that formed the lake also furnished water power to provide light the resort’s buildings and grounds.Meanwhile, on the town’s northern boundary, D. W. Johnston, owner of the Hotel Ben Lomond, planned his own dam, “for boating purposes.” Four skiffs would ply the enhanced river waters. Johnston also ordered a dynamo from the East and prepared to install 170 incandescent lights. Wires were distributed around the lawn and along the river to create “a veritable fairyland at night.”The completion of the Hotel Ben Lomond dam provided unexpected amusement for early-season guests at the Rowardennan. A popular feature at Lake Bell was a large raft, with room for forty loungers. Intent on fun, a small crowd piled on, disregarding the fact that the lake had not been allowed to fill. When the unofficial captain attempted to land the awkward craft, he slipped down the steep muddy bank into the water. “The kids thought it great fun,” commented the Sentinel.For the next few years, Ben Lomond’s hotels vied on almost equal terms. Attempts to go ‘one up’ were quickly matched. Both built tennis courts, bowling alleys, dance halls, club houses, etc. Ben Lomond advertised an elegant croquet court, while the Rowardennan offered nine holes of golf. There was, however, one particular distinction. From the first, the Rowardennan pursued a policy of exclusivity. As one version of its letterhead proclaimed, the management refused to “cater to members of the Hebrew persuasion.”On summer nights, lamps glowed on either end of Ben Lomond, but the streets of the town remained dark. The plans to use the river current to power the hotel electric systems fell short of expectations due to the severe drought of 1898 and 1899. To keep their lights on, both hotels had to rely on the steam power of Silvey’s shingle mill.Although both hotels insisted that the summer season of 1899 had filled their suites and cottages, the lessees of each quietly left town before it ended. “A Legacy of Unliquidated Debt Left Behind,” headlined the Surf. “Creditors Will Whistle for Their Pay.” Thomas Bell moved on to a new project — “Camp Arcadia” (the future Mount Hermon) — selling his interest in the Rowardennan to other local capitalists.In the spring of 1900, the residents of Ben Lomond were cheered by the promise of a new source of electricity to light their streets and homes. The Big Creek Power Company, which provided power to Santa Cruz, constructed a high-power line along the ridge of Ben Lomond Mountain to the winery owned by one of its directors. From there, the wires were extended down Alba Road to the outskirts of town.As the work neared completion, the citizens of Ben Lomond realized that there was a catch. Because the Big Creek dam generated high-voltage power, a transformer had to be built to enable residential use. When the company demanded a guarantee to cover its $1,000 additional cost, the citizens of Ben Lomond called a hasty meeting at the public hall on Mill Street.Although many residents were willing to subscribe to the new service, it became clear that their pledges fell short of the required deposit. Without the cooperation of the hotels, the opportunity would be lost. Somewhat reluctantly, D. W. Johnston took the lead, offering to cancel his contract to receive power from the mill, and rely on the new line, “although the expense would be more.” When the proprietors of the Rowardennan matched his offer, the Big Creek representative expressed satisfaction and the audience burst into applause.The power was switched on before the end of June, 1900. “With over thirty street lights along our main thoroughfare in addition to the many private lights,” agreed the Mountain Echo’s correspondent, “the illumination gives the place quite a handsome appearance during the evening.”To Be Continued Randall C. Brown is a local historian and is a member of the SLVWD
Mr. Money
Interest rates are the lowest they’ve been in human history, and they’ve been this low for almost seven years. On September 17, the Federal Reserve Bank, at long last, might raise its rate for overnight loans to banks – the Fed funds rate – from approximately zero to slightly above zero.They’ve been itching to raise rates for over a year now. Just last week, Federal Reserve board member, Dennis Lockhart said “the central bank is ready to hike.”I’m not convinced it will happen, but if it does, what effect will the increase have on residents of Scotts Valley and San Lorenzo Valley?Rising interest rates would be good news for savers, who would receive more interest on their savings. They would be bad for homeowners with adjustable-rate mortgages, because their monthly payments would rise. They also might be bad for home prices, as higher borrowing costs make it harder for buyers to qualify for a loan.The current ultra-low rates are the result of emergency measures taken by the Fed during the financial crisis of 2008. In an effort to prevent a depression like the 1930s, the Fed cut short-term rates to near zero to spur economic activity.That move was led by “Helicopter Ben” Bernanke, then chair of the Fed and so nicknamed because he once quipped that, if necessary, he would drop hundred-dollar bills from a helicopter to prevent another depression.Emergency measures aren’t supposed to last seven years. So Fed officials want to raise rates now, partly to show that their policy has worked.But has it?Well, the plan was to provide easy money to lift inflation – not too much, just enough to prevent deflation, or falling prices, like the U.S. experienced in the 1930s. However, low rates have had unexpected consequences:Inflation: The cycle is supposed to work this way: When the economy slows down, companies make less money and weak ones go out of business. When the economy heats up, the surviving companies can raise prices because of less competition. So inflation rises.But this long stretch of easy money has kept afloat weak companies that in a normal economic cycle wouldn’t survive, so they keep churning out supply and reducing inflation pressures. We’ve seen this in such industries as energy, mining and agriculture.Jobs: Easy money is supposed to encourage companies to hire. However, partly because of uncertainty about taxes and health care costs, companies have been reluctant to hire, instead they borrow cheap money to buy back their own stock and the stock of other companies. When companies merge, they lay off workers.The very low jobless rate of 5.3 percent reported a week ago doesn’t count people who have stopped looking for work or are not working as many hours as they want. The percentage of adults in the workforce remained very low at 62.6 percent.But the main reason interest rates aren’t likely to rise much in the near future is that the economy can’t handle it. In the last seven years, the federal debt has ballooned from $10 trillion to $18 trillion. The U.S. is paying an average interest rate of 1.5 percent on that debt.If the average rate rose by 1 percent to 2.5 percent, still very low historically, that would add $180 billion a year in borrowing cost. The government nearly shut itself down twice in recent years because lawmakers couldn’t find $30 billion in spending cuts. How on earth could we afford an extra $180 billion?My guess is that interest rates will stay low, at least for now.Mark Rosenberg is a financial adviser with Financial West Group in Scotts Valley, a member of FINRA and SIPC. He can be reached at 831-439-9910 or [email protected]
Mountain Gardener: Save Water in the Garden like they do in Carmel
You can sum up a Carmel garden with one of two descriptions — hot and dry or mild and dry. Closer to the coast the weather is mild year round while further up Carmel Valley it can get pretty toasty.In either place, the people of Carmel are used to paying close attention to their water consumption. Monterey County water districts have some of the most stringent regulations around.On a recent trip to this beautiful part of the world, I took the opportunity to study their beautiful low water-use gardens. What makes for a successful garden that doesn’t include a lawn and lush perennial border? Here are some of the plants and strategies that I admired while in Carmel.Because many homeowners are replacing their lawns with low water-use landscapes, a well thought out design is more important than ever.Stone makes a garden look like its part of nature. Granite boulders are one of the go-to choices for accent rocks due to their lower cost and I saw many gardens with beautiful installations using granite. But it was the creamy yellow Carmel stone that caught my eye. It’s used for everything there from retaining walls and steps to veneer for homes.Carmel stone is sedimentary shale and can be found throughout the Santa Lucia mountain range. The best stone colors, however, come from quarries in Monterey County. With beautiful rust, orange, pink and caramel iron oxide striations it’s plentiful and relatively light by rock standards. That’s probably why it was the material of choice for the native Ohlone tribes who built the Carmel Mission.In addition to the beautiful stonework and boulders in Carmel gardens, plant selection is often unique and bold as well as easy on the water budget. I wasn’t familiar with Globularia sarcophylla ‘Blue Eyes’ when I first saw it blooming. Covered with hundreds of button size flowers of cream with dark blue centers it really stood out. This showy little Canary Island shrub is very drought tolerant and hardy down to 10 degrees.Another plant that looked great paired with old fashioned shasta daisies was the medium sized Gold Velvet kangaroo paw. Flowering for most of the year this variety has more resistance to black spot, needs less trimming and is frost tolerant. Plant kangaroo paws in a well mulched garden using chunky bark chips and ensure the crown of the plant is above soil level. Remove older flower stems and cut back foliage every 1-2 years. Kangaroo paw offer drought tolerant color in the garden.Dramatic purple leafed phormium ‘Guardsman’ accented one of the gardens. Leucophyllum frutescens ‘Los Alamitos’ -Texas sage - would complement this phormium. The gray foliage and pink flowers smother this plant in color from summer into fall. Succulents like aeonium ‘Sunburst’ and echeveria paired with agapanthus and statice made a nice vignette in another garden.A visit to several nurseries in Carmel Valley shed more light on what customers are buying in these times of drought. One of the smaller leucodendrons called Ebony is a favorite. This bushy compact shrub grows 3 to 4 feet tall and a bit wider with lustrous blackish-purple foliage and burgundy red bracts surrounding the flowers from late winter to summer. One of the great things about this species is its ability to tolerate only occasional to infrequent irrigation once established. Other low water-use plants featured at the local Carmel nurseries include California native Woolly Blue Curls, the stunning teucrium ‘Azureum’, Velour Pink Mexican Bush Sage and Wyn’s Wonder Australian fuchsia.There are lots of awesome gardens, nurseries and plants — so little time. Take some ideas from the people of Carmel and embrace low water-use gardens.-Jan Nelson, a landscape designer and California certified nursery professional, will answer questions about gardening in the Santa Cruz Mountains. E-mail her [email protected], or visitwww.jannelsonlandscapedesign.comto view past columns and pictures.
Datebook
Submit Datebook items to [email protected] or drop off press releases or photos at 5215 Scotts Valley Drive, Ste. F, Scotts Valley 95066. Deadline is 5 p.m. Tuesday. Entries are subject to editing, and publication is not guaranteed. Friday, August 14SLV Museum Bear Exhibit and Networking MixerWhen 5:30 to 8 p.m.Where: SLV Museum, 12547 Highway 9 in Boulder CreekCost: $5 member, $7 non-membersInfo: Call or email Mary Andersen at 831-345-5972 or [email protected] if you need more information, would like to donate a raffle prize, or are interested in hosting your own networking event in the coming months. Saturday, August 15Free ACT practice examWhen: 8 to 11:30 a.m.Where: Higher Standards Academy, 444 Scotts Valley Dr. #7A in Scotts ValleyInfo: 515-7373 to register 2015 Scotts Valley Art Wine & Beer FestivalWhen: 6 to 8 p.m.Where: SkyparkDetails: Art, wine, food and fun.Info: 438-1010 Flea MarketWhen: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.Where: Felton Presbyterian Church, 6090 Highway 9, FeltonCost: $20 per spaceInfo: 335-6905 Sunday, August 162015 Scotts Valley Art Wine & Beer FestivalWhen: 6 to 8 p.m.Where: SkyparkDetails: Art, wine, food and fun.Info: 438-1010 Poet/Speak: Open poetry reading featuring Nancy HofmanWhen: 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.Where: Santa Cruz Main Library, 224 Church St., Santa CruzInfo: 464-8983 Create your own Hupertufa planterWhen: 1 to 3 p.m.Where: Quail Hollow RanchDetails: Call for supplies and descriptionInfo: 335-9348 School Clean-up OpWhen: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.Where: SLV Middle School, 7179 Hacienda Way in FeltonInfo: 335-3418 or [email protected] Sit Down, You’re Served Pancake BreakfastWhen: 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.Where: Highlands Senior Center, 8500 Highway 9 in Ben LomondCost: $6 for adults and $3 for childrenInfo: 336-8900 or [email protected] Monday, August 17Memory Loss seminarWhen: August 17, 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.Where: Scotts Valley LibraryCall for information: 334-0865 Tuesday, August 18“When Music Worlds Collide,” Felton, CACost: Call for informationInfo: 335-2526Details Wednesday, Aug. 19Workshop: Going Shopping with Your ChildWhen: 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.Where: Felton Covered Bridge Park, at Graham Hill & Mt. Hermon Roads, FeltonInfo: http://first5scc.org/workshop-going-shopping-your-child-1 Friday, August 21American Red CrossDetails: Blood donation opportunitiesWhen: 1:00 – 6:00 p.m.Where: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day SaintsAddress: 9545 Lovecreek Rd., Ben Lomond Sunday, August 23School Clean-up OpWhen: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.Where: SLV High School, 7105 Highway 9 in FeltonInfo: 335-3418 or [email protected] Wednesday, August 26Jazz musicWhen: 6 to 9 p.m.Where: Casa NostraDetails: Live jazz music featuring jazz duo Paul Trigg and Joe LeonardCost: No coverInfo: 609-6132 Thursday, August 27Willing Suspension Armchair TheaterWhen:7 to 9 p.m.Where: Scotts Valley LibraryDetails: Funny Ladies: Musings & Memoir from Hilarious WomenCost: Free, but donations are appreciatedInfo: [email protected] Sunday, August 30Music at SkyparkWhen: 2:30 to 6 p.m.Where: Skypark, Scotts ValleyDetails: Extra Large and The Joint Chiefs perform on outdoor stage, all food concessions support music programs in local public schools.Info: www.KiwanisoftheValleys.org Cost: Free Wednesday, September 2Sons in Retirement LuncheonWhen: 11:30 a.m. to 1:35 p.m.Where: Portuguese Hall 216 Evergreen at Coral St. (3 blocks past COSTCO)Details: Catered lunch by Barbara & Co. Talk by: Col. Brian Shiroyama former security officer for Air Force One, etc.Cost: $17Info: Call Dave at (831) 336-8481 by the Friday before the event. Thursday, September 3Boating safety and navigation three classes for registrationWhen: 7 to 8:30 p.m.Where: Santa Cruz Harbor Public Meeting Room, 365A Lake Ave. at the Harbor near the boat yardDetails: Boating Skills and Seamanship, Sailing and Seamanship, and Coastal NavigationInfo: [email protected]. Friday, September 4Jazz MusicWhen: 6 to 9 p.m.Where: Casa Nostra in Ben LomondDetails: Live Jazz Music Featuring Joy of JazzInfo: Casa Nostra at (831) 609-6132 or Joy at (831) 246-0349 Cost: Free Sunday, September 6Jazz MusicWhen: 6 to 9 p.m.Where: Scopazzi’s Deck in Boulder CreekDetails: Live Jazz Music Featuring Joy of JazzInfo: Scopazzi’s at (831) 338-6441 or Joy at (831) 246-0349 Cost: Free Saturday, September 12Women with mood disordersWhen: 3 to 5 p.m.Where: Ease Mountain Yoga, Ben LomondInfo: 440-6970 Sunday, September 139th Annual Emergency Preparedness DayWhen: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.Where: Home Depot parking lot, 2600 41st Ave. in SoquelDetails: Emergency communication demonstrationsInfo: 462-5650 ext. 145 Sunday, September 27Music at Skypark ConcertWhen: 2 to 6 p.m.Where: SkyparkDetails: Two bands, The Coffis Brothers and The Mountain MenCost: Donation proceeds from refreshments sale go to schoolsInfo: Kiwanis of the Valleys – 439-8018 Sunday, September 20Santa Cruz Post Card and Paper Collectibles showWhen: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Where: The Hilton, 6001 La Madrona Dr. in Scotts ValleyDetails: An intimate post card experience.Info: [email protected] or 476-3262 ONGOING Mountain Community TheaterPark Hall in Ben LomondWhen: August 21 through 22What: New Works Night: Frank and StellaDetails: An original play written by Ian McRae; Directed by Robin AronsonInfo and tickets: www.mctshows.org or 336-4777 Everest Vacation Bible SchoolWhen: Aug. 3 through 7 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.Where: San Agustin Catholic Church, 257 Glenwood Dr. in Scotts ValleyWhat: Games, crafts, experiments, songs, drama, and snacks.Cost: $60Info: 438-3633 Registration ends July 27 Vegan potluckWhen: First Friday of the month at 11:30 a.m.Where: Saint Michael’s Community Hall in Boulder CreekDetails: We are the only location around trying to save all life on earth — now declining by over 100 species a day due to 8 billion humans killing everything that lives.Info: 338-3544 to RSVP or email [email protected]. Together in the ParkWhen: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. WednesdaysWhere: Felton Covered Bridge ParkDetails: Parenting resources, craft projects, music, stories and healthy snacks. Parents, family members or caregivers, and their children meet for play and group activities.Cost: Free Center for Animal Protection is recruiting foster families for dogsDetails: The Center for Animal Protection and Education (CAPE) is recruiting new foster volunteers for dogs awaiting permanent homes.Info: Nancy Eaton at 684-2421 San Lorenzo Valley “Women with Mood Disorders”When: The second Saturday of the month from 3:30 to 5:50 p.m.Where: FeltonInfo: [email protected] for details Sound MeditationWhen: First Sunday of every month from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m.Where: Mountain Spirit, 6299 Highway 9 in FeltonDetails: Discussion and practice on the use of sound to connect in meditation with Bruce ManakaCost: FreeInfo: Shelby at 335-7700 Gratitude WednesdaysWhen: First Wednesday of every month from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.Where: Mountain Spirit, 6299 Highway 9 in FeltonDetails: Mountain Spirit will donate 10 percent of sales to a local non-profit.Info: Shelby at 335-7700 Mountain Spirit’s Writing GroupWhen: First Wednesday of every month from 5 to 7 p.m.Where: Mountain Spirit, 6299 Highway 9 in FeltonDetails: Mountain Spirit's Writing Group is a creative writing class led by Wendy Ledger.Info: Shelby at 335-7700 Kids Fun Night at BC RecreationWhen: Tuesdays, 5 to 9 p.m.Where: Boulder Creek Recreation Center, 13333 Middleton Ave. in Boulder CreekDetails: Potluck please bring a dish to share. Fun filled evening for kids 2-11years. Movie, crafts, games, and fun.Cost: $20 per kid Cooking and Homestead Class for KidsWhen: Tuesdays, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.Where: Boulder Creek Recreation CenterCost: $15 per kid Bloom of the Present Weekly Monday Evening MeditationWhen: Mondays except for federal holidays, 7 to 8:30 p.m.Where: The Satellite, 6265 Highway 9 in Felton Info: 831-212-6641 or bloomofthepresent.org Touch Team iPad Memory classes at the LibraryMonday and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.Where: Scotts Valley Public Library, 251 Kings Village Rd. in Scotts ValleyDetails: Join us in this supportive social setting, for a series of innovative workshops that use iPads to engage the mind and activate memory. No experience is necessary and iPads are supplied by the library and individual coaches are present to help with activities.Info: Call to Register 427-7700 x 7615 Wilder Ranch Tours and Living History DemonstrationsWhen: Weekends from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.Where: Wilder Ranch State Park, 1401 Coast Rd, Santa CruzDetails: Visit an early day dairy ranch and step back in time to the late 1800’s at Wilder Ranch State Park. You can also play Victorian games or bring a picnic to enjoy on the front lawn, visit the farm animals and see what activities are taking place on the ranch this weekend, You may learn about hand quilting, watch blacksmithing, or wood stove baking techniques.Info: 426-0505 Redwood Loop WalkWhen: Saturdays, 1 p.m.Where: Big Basin Redwoods State Park, 21600 Big Basin Way in Boulder CreekDetails: Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Meet at park headquarters.Cost: FreeInfo: 338-8883 Old-Growth Redwood WalksWhen: every Saturday at 1 p.m.Where: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, 101 N Big Trees Park Rd. in FeltonDetails: Experience a guided forest adventure on a docent-led walk through the magnificent old-growth coast redwood forest. This is .8 mile long stroll lasting around 1.5 hours. The trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible.Cost: FreeInfo: 335-7077 Embroidistry at Om GalleryWhen: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. dailyWhere: Om Gallery, 1201 Pacific Ave. in Santa CruzDetails: Hand-embroidered interpretations of well-known masterpieces, album covers, and original compositions by Ben Lomond artist Mardeen Gordon.Cost: FreeInfo: Mardeen Gordon at 252-7446 First aid-CPR classWhen: Third Saturday of the monthWhere: Felton Fire Protection District, 131 Kirby St., in FeltonDetails: Ray Soler will lead a class for First Aid and CPR certification for community members. Times and registration details are available online or by phone.Cost: Free for district residents and employees of businesses within the district, $36 for all othersInfo: 335-4422 or www.feltonfire.com TOPS club meetWhen: Wednesdays from 10 to 11 a.m.Where: Meeting room in back of the Felton Fire DepartmentDetails: Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) is a group dedicated to loosing weight by encouraging healthy eating and lifestyle habits.
The Mountain Gardener: Gardening with Kids
My friend Adelyn came to visit the other day. Adelyn just turned three. We always have a good time exploring my garden and checking out the forest. This time, her visit was even more fun.I didn’t have any cherry tomatoes to share because Mr. Gopher got to the plants first but there are always lots of flowers to admire and some have a wonderful fragrance. Over a dozens hummingbirds visit my feeders daily and they love the flowers that produce nectar, too. Songbirds have their own feeders plus suet to eat and all the little seeds that nature can provide. My sunflowers will soon be ripe for the goldfinches to enjoy.To share one’s excitement and knowledge of the outdoor world with a child is fun and rewarding. The wonder that can be seen on a young person’s face as they discover a swallowtail butterfly or a flower just starting to open or a bird feeding in the garden is priceless.Sure it would be great to have a large vegetable garden to share with Adelyn. We could build a teepee out of fallen branches and plant scarlet runner beans around the outside. Alternatively, we could grow a pizza garden in a circle divided like pizza slices with long wooden stakes. We’d plant tomatoes, sweet red peppers and basil in the slices and use stepping stones to mimic pepperoni slices.But I have lots of other cool things to do, so when Adelyn comes to my house we become a couple of naturalists and horticulturalists and that’s OK with us.For Adelyn’s last visit I made a bird book for her with pictures that I took at my house. It has photos of other things besides birds — butterflies, flowers, a tree frog and pictures of family members when they have visited. It was fun to watch her run around and identify which bird or flower had a picture in her book.In a short time, she had seen the Grosbeak, Junco, chickadee, purple finch, goldfinch and nuthatch all snatching a seed from the feeder. The flowers were easier to find since they can’t fly. She really liked the blue hydrangeas and the red flowering maples. Hiding among the huge hosta leaves was fun for her, too.We took some more pictures during the afternoon and printed them out on the computer to add to her little book. The book is one of those inexpensive four by six inch photo albums with sleeves for the photos. We looked for the chipmunks to photograph for the album but they were out feeding elsewhere in the forest.Finding things to do in the garden is easy. You probably already have some edible flowers in your garden. Tuberous begonia petals taste like lemon. Calendulas are spicy as are carnations and marigolds. Dianthus are clove-flavored, nasturtiums give a hint of horseradish and violas, pansies, hollyhock, squash blossoms and johnny-jump-ups taste like mild lettuce. You can also freeze flowers like violas, fuchsias, geranium, stock and thyme in ice cubes.Flowers that kids can cut will be interesting for them, too, especially when planted in their own garden. Cosmos, planted from six packs, provide instant color as well as attracting butterflies. Zinnias come in a rainbow of colors and are a favorite of swallowtail butterflies. Another easy to grow flower for cutting is the snapdragon.Besides flowers, fragrant plants like lemon basil, lemon verbena, lime thyme, orange mint and other herbs engage the senses and can be included in a kid's garden. Lamb's ears are soft and furry.Get a kid into gardening and nature and they'll be good stewards of the land for a lifetime. Plus you’ll have a lot of fun in the process. -Jan Nelson, a landscape designer and California certified nursery professional, will answer questions about gardening in the Santa Cruz Mountains. E-mail her [email protected], or visitwww.jannelsonlandscapedesign.comto view past columns and pictures.
Highway 17 overnight lane closures continue through Tuesday south of Sugarloaf...
Travelers on Highway 17 north of Scotts Valley will continue to encounter a reduction to one lane of travel in each direction on Monday and...
