Community

The advent of August means students are headed back to school, local tourist attractions are less crowded and the Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival is back. Since its start in 2001—originally known as “Art Under the Oaks”—the Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer...

By The Scotts Valley Advocates  The Scotts Valley Community Christmas Tree lit up on Nov. 27, continuing a tradition dating 30 years. The Scotts Valley Park Advocates felt strongly about the importance of supporting the installation of the tree lighting for the community given the...

Seems like 2020 lasted for longer than just one year. I, for one, am hoping for a less eventful year in 2021. As the calendar turns to a new year these are some of my thoughts for 2020. Well maybe they’re the same thoughts...

Those of you who read my column regularly might have noticed I often write about plants that are valuable to the birds and the bees as well as butterflies and wildlife in the general. I have 10 bird feeders around my house. Four for the hummingbirds and the other six have black oil sunflower seed and hulled chips. At this time of year when there are so many young the extra food is much appreciated. I provide water and nectar plants for the bees and butterflies as well. If I had to choose one plant to grow that would provide the most benefit for all the critters it would be ceanothus. Hands down, it’s the best and here are some of my favorite varieties.

The Fire Safe Council of Santa Cruz County has announced that West Bonny Doon Road in Bonny Doon has been officially recognized as the 100th Firewise USA community in the county. This milestone marks a major achievement in wildfire preparedness and community resilience, making Santa...

Nationwide, suicide is the third leading cause of death in teens, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Locally, teen suicide has hit all too close to home in recent weeks and years. While the subject of suicide is hard to think...

The passion for supporting Special Olympians was just as strong as ever at this year’s Law Enforcement Torch Run on June 26, even though it looked way different than prior incarnations. This year, instead of the steep incline by gnarled Live Oaks beside Highway 17...

A couple weeks ago in a column about allergy free landscaping, I mentioned dogwood being a good tree choice as their pollen is not wind borne. Their showy flowers are pollinated by insects rather than by the wind. Producing less pollen, their pollen is large and heavy, sticking to insects rather than becoming airborne and leading to sneezing, runny noses and watery eyes. With dogwoods about to burst into bloom I thought I’d share some information about growing this iconic tree.

By Janet Janssen, Strictly Business There is no denying this year has left an indelible mark on the community, personally and collectively. Each month, we share about businesses who sell more than their products or services but give back to their community. This practice of...

Scotts Valley Police Department is participating in Operation Safe Passage, which began Aug. 7 and continues through Aug. 15. The goal of the operation is to increase the safety of students commuting to and from school at the beginning of the new school year. During...