The record-setting rains that pummeled Ben Lomond and the San Lorenzo Valley this winter have pushed the county’s soggy infrastructure to it limits. And the wet winter is not even half over.

As Santa Cruz County roads suffered another onslaught of mudslides, wind, heavy rain, floods, falling trees and washouts from winter rains, officials were struggling this week to unleash federal and state funds so repairs can begin.

From her sprawling ranch-style home not far from Lockewood Lane in Scotts Valley, novelist Christine Z. Mason beckons readers who enjoy intricate plotting, fascinating characters and an exciting story.

Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017 is a day that will be remembered for a long time by Scotts Valley police officers: a day of speed, valor, near-misses, and frustration.

Business leaders and employers in Scotts Valley and the San Lorenzo Valley are beginning the new year with a sense of optimism, if not about the overall economy, but about renewed activity in the job market.

The grand re-opening of the motel/retail portion of the Brookdale Inn and Spa has been set for May 1, according to Santa Cruz  County officials.“The long anticipated re-opening of the Brookdale Lodge now has an estimated grand opening of its Phase 1 in May,” reported Barbara Mason, economic development coordinator for Santa Cruz County.Phase 1 at the historic lodge is hotel rooms and retail space. The Highway 9 landmark last fall received county approval for a second phase, the reconstruction of the lobby and bar area, and is expected to seek new funding and new county approvals for the legendary Brook Room restaurant in the fall.Mason said the Brookdale project could mean 200 new jobs.