Wearing the American flag on her swimsuit, Ariel Rittenhouse has led a life most people only dream about — traveling the world and performing alongside some of the world's greatest athletes.

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Fourteen wins. That is the total number of victories that the Scotts Valley High School varsity boys basketball team had tallied in Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League play in 10 seasons since the school opened in 2001.

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The moment “the couple” walked into the Oak Tree Ristorante carrying a bottle of wine, my interest was piqued. Soon the server had the bottle uncorked and as the wine was breathing, Sebastian, the owner/chef appeared at their table with his empty wine glass in hand. The beautiful red wine was poured, tasted and commented upon by the threesome.

Every year about this time, I get excited about what fruit trees I'm going to recommend for those who want to start a home orchard or add to their edible gardens. Will this be the year you get a Cox's Orange Pippin apple or an American Golden Russet? Maybe an oldie but goodie like a Golden Delicious apple will become the treasure of your family. But, then again, there's the Mutsu, a favorite of connoisseurs, which might get the nod.