Throughout the year, I am asked for design help and plant suggestions, but it’s at this time of year that I especially hear the request; “I’d love to add more grasses to my garden.”

With many opposing obstacles — including warm ocean water, lack of rain, and low river flows — the return of chinook salmon looks promising.

A duo of Scotts Valley teens from Troop 614 were recently honored with Scouting’s highest award, the Eagle Scout. Justas Venancio Rodarte and Matthew Norman Robinson were honored by their troop and families at a Eagle Court of Honor Ceremony, which was held at the Salvation Army Camp Redwood Glen on Aug. 24. There they received proclamations from the Mayor of Scotts Valley and special recognition from the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War.