The Mountain Gardener: A gardener’s Halloween
Halloween is just around the corner, and besides deciding what you or the kids will dress up as this year, it’s time to take in any plants you plan to overwinter in the house.
Sustainable living: Local dollars could create a sustainable economy
Pull out a dollar bill and take a good look at it. We all know what it can buy. But what is the paper bill actually worth? It probably cost a few cents to make, but while it’s not very useful on its own, we value the dollar because we all agree that it has value.
Your Health: Acute sinusitis: A painful inflammation
Sinuses are air pockets found in the bones of the skull. There are seven sinuses which are located on both sides of the nose, in between the eyes, and one deep behind the nose. Their true function is not well understood, but some have suggested that sinuses serve to lighten the weight of the skull, to humidify the air we breathe and to create resonance in our voices.
The Wine Lover: Time in barrels a key to fine winemaking
Barrel aging is one of the most essential parts of making red wine and many chardonnays.
Mountain Gardner: Evey soil is worth celebrating
“The earth is made of butterfly wings, dinosaur teeth, pumpkin seeds, lizard skins and fallen leaves. Put your hands in the soil and touch yesterday; and all that will be left of tomorrow shall return so that new life can celebrate this day.”
Comedy Corner: A persimmon tree of family memories
It’s the nastiest fruit on the planet, and my mom loved to make cookies out of it.
Let’s Go Fishin’: White sea bass, red tide along coastline
Catching white sea bass in Monterey Bay has been a great bet lately and may continue through the next full moon. Meanwhile, the red tide has established itself along the southern beaches of Santa Cruz, and water watchers wonder why it occurs.
News Briefs | Published Nov. 6, 2026
Scotts Valley water supply returns to normal
San Lorenzo Valley Water District has returned the Pasatiempo No. 5 well to service, allowing water quality in...












