Tag: columns
The Mountain Gardener | Gorgeous Rhododendrons in the Garden
Every garden I visit these days has at least one gorgeous rhododendron in full bloom. They can’t help but be spectacularly covered with those...
Finance | Tax Dimensions of Retirement Savings
If you want to save on taxes, do what the government wants you to do. Indeed, save for retirement so you don’t burden your...
Plain Talk About Food | Recipes From the Past Stir Memories
I suppose if a ‘good’ witch stood in front of me and asked, which one person from your past life would you bring back...
The Mountain Gardener | Native Plants Offer Many Varieties
Most of us would love to have a garden containing all California native plants growing happily in an ecosystem where everybody wins—birds, bees, insects,...
Mayor’s Message | Investing in Safety and Strengthening Community Through Service
One of the greatest privileges of serving as your mayor is having a front-row seat to the dedication and quiet heroism of those who...
The Mountain Gardener | 1,000 Columns and Still Growing Strong
It all started back in 2005 when my first column was published in the newly combined San Lorenzo Valley Press and the Scotts Valley...
Finance | Hemming, Hawing and Hedging Options
“Concision in style, Precision in thought, Decision in life.” —Victor Hugo
We are a nation of consumers and investors, hemming, hawing and hedging with Trump,...
Plain Talk About Food | Ocean’s Bounty
My entire life has revolved around our ocean’s bounty, whether it be in the fierce beauty of storms I’ve witnessed living next to its...
The Mountain Gardener | Flowering Dogwoods for the Santa Cruz Mountains
I don’t know if I like the pink ones or the white ones best. A flowering dogwood in any shade is stunning. My friend...
Strictly Business | Cook Your Way Around the World
By exploring global flavors, Barbara J’s Organics Spice Shop brings the art of cooking to life—one delicious blend at a time.
Barbara Johansen, owner and...
News Briefs | Published April 10, 2026
North County Dems host candidate endorsement forum
The Democratic Club of North Santa Cruz County will host a Candidate Endorsement Forum for the upcoming June...
