gravel garden path Column: Josh Reilly Columns Gardening 

Early Summer Gardens in Full Riot

By Josh Reilly It’s peak season in San Lorenzo Valley gardens. Roses, salvias, Jerusalem sage, irises, poppies, lavenders, yuccas, succulents, penstemons, sedums, Peruvian lilies and ground covers like creeping Thyme are all in full riot. Azaleas and rhododendrons are lighting up shady corners. Pelargoniums and geraniums (often confused) are going off like fireworks. Long blooming standbys like Erigeron will be… Read More
Scotts Valley Community Barn Columns History Water 

A History of Scotts Valley Water

By Randall Brown August 1958. The Scotts Valley Barn was practically empty on the night the residents were invited to learn about the upcoming water election. Engineers, county officials’ consultants, and public-relations men nearly outnumbered the ten interested citizens. There would be one question on the ballot, according to a spokesman: “Do you wish to buy a reserve water supply… Read More
Roasted Artichokes with Sage Blossoms and Lemon Balm Column Alison Steele Columns Food & Drink 

Roasted Artichokes with Sage Blossoms and Lemon Balm

By Alison Steele If you’ve been following along, you’ll notice that I love harvesting edible flowers to flavor our food. Reeling us in with color, then aroma, and capturing our taste buds with the melding of essential oils, flowering herbs are a complex flavor addition to any meal. Continuing the edible flower theme, this week’s recipe is nothing short of… Read More
alice in underland Local News Theater 

There’s Something About a Small Town: Little People’s Repertory Theater Preps for Summer

By Julie Horner There’s something about a small town. “My kids grew up doing this, they’re all adults now,” said Jennine Chadwick, Executive Director of Little People’s Repertory Theater. “They do this in the summer, help the new kids, go to college, come back.” It’s a touchstone in their lives, she says, and one of the things she loves best… Read More
santa cruz mountains rail trail Attractions Local News Transportation 

Path to Rail Trail Decision Must Cross Four Bridges

By Jayme Ackemann The debate over the Santa Cruz County Regional Transit Commission’s (RTC) Rail Corridor Study hit an impasse recently when the Commission deadlocked over a vote to adopt a business plan for the preferred light rail alternative, which was selected by the commission in February. The two votes seem to be at odds with one another – selecting… Read More
SLV High School Pool open to the public Local News 

Public Places Open at Last

By Chris Finnie On June 15 Santa Cruz County moves back to usual operations. Parks, beaches, museums, and libraries are reopening after a long absence. Here’s a roundup of some of our favorite San Lorenzo Valley public places. Parks All county parks, beaches, and trails are open, including playgrounds and restrooms. Visit scparks.com for health guidelines and access updates. Enjoy… Read More