We all celebrate the holidays in different ways. Each family has their own traditions and warm memories from years gone by. Some of us celebrate Christmas, some Hanukkah, some Kwanzaa. Many of our traditional Christmas customs originate from Winter Solstice celebrations. The plants associated with each are an important part of tradition and symbolism.

The prevalence of online neighborhood groups through websites such as Facebook or Next Door are popular ways for residents in the Santa Cruz Mountains to communicate about traffic delays, events happening in the area, list places offering services and more. Several weeks ago, one Boulder Creek resident, Jenny Bradford, saw an opportunity to create a Facebook neighborhood group to invite a conversation and dialogue concerning the concept of “white privilege” and ways to address the issue of racism locally and nationally.

Although the vote count is yet to be certified, Derek Timm, a newcomer to the Scotts Valley City Council, received the most votes in a three-way race with two incumbents seeking reelection. Jim Reed, a long-term incumbent and current mayor, came in second.  Stephany Aguilar, after more than 20 years of distinguished service on the council, was unable to successfully defend her seat.      

Kevin Collins, private citizen, resident of Lompico canyon and PG&E ratepayer, explained and defended his formal complaint to the California Public Utilities Commission about PG&E’s tree cutting program to an administrative law judge in a prehearing conference in Santa Cruz last Friday.

With the holiday season upon us I enjoy colorful plants on my tabletop and window sill. How safe are holiday plants for pets and small children?

   My refrigerator is practically empty, with only a few jars of condiments and a vegetable or two gracing its shelves.  I have created two major Christmas party menus and have spent the last few days of this month writing a long grocery list; its length, for a single person, seems a bit overwhelming. 

Finally the rain has come. Outside my window a Townsend warbler feasts on suet. It’s a rainy day and I”m enjoying the vivid colors of my late fall garden. Backlit leaves take on a whole new look. There are so many ways of combining plants in the garden. I’m taking notes so I remember my favorites to include in my own garden and future designs. 

Matt Machado, now on the job about five months as the new Director of Public Works for Santa Cruz County, gave a status report on road repair projects in the San Lorenzo Valley at a “meet and greet” event at Highlands Park on Nov. 19.  Early in his remarks, Machado said, “Thank goodness Proposition 6 failed in the election- proposing to repeal the gas tax- because that gas tax funding is our match for every one of our storm damage projects.” 

It’s a chilly November morning as Ron Trader stands outside on the deck in Felton with a cup of coffee in one hand and a cigarette in the other. This is Trader’s morning ritual.

If working in the garden Thanksgiving weekend is not high on your list then you’re in luck.  Here are some reasons why along with other information you need to know.