APRIL 2019 EVERYTHING APTOS, CAPITOLA & SOQUEL Vol. 7 No. 8 Science Fair
Sports
More than 400 students attend
APTOS
Shortstop Kai Moody
pg. 2
SOQUEL
pg. 12
CAPITOLA Photo by Tarmo HANNULA
These men enjoy a break in the rainy weather with an early morning game of golf at the Seascape Golf Club recently.
‘Keep smiling’
HISTORY CORNER
Longtime Aptos High custodian dies
By John Hibble Call: 688-1467
By TODD GUILD
Visit us online: aptoshistory.org Visit the museum: 7605-B Old Dominion Court Aptos, CA
Let’s have a party!
Any excuse is a good excuse for a party and Cinco de Mayo is no exception. The Aptos History Museum’s annual fundraiser, “Swing into Spring,” will be held on May 5 this year and we are planning a Cinco de Mayo celebration. What does Cinco de Mayo have to do with Aptos history? Plenty! The Spanish came to colonize the New World and brought horses and cattle with them. California became part of their empire. The missions that were being established needed food, so the explorers brought their cattle herding and ranching expertise from Spain. Please turn to Page 6
Robert Salazar. File photo
APTOS — Robert “Bobby” Salazar, the unofficial mayor of Aptos who served as security guard and maintenance man for Aptos High School for more than four decades, and who was known for his ever-present smile and exhortations for everyone he met to “keep smiling,” died March 17 after a battle with cancer. He was 62. Born on Jan. 22, 1957 in Las Vegas, New Mexico, Salazar was one of seven
Please turn to Page 6
‘A new era’ of growth
Cabrillo College kicks off new ag tech center By TODD GUILD
Brooke Casipit leads a tour of one of the greenhouses. Photo by Todd Guild
APTOS — In an era where agriculture meshes with technology — and environmental sustainability is a rule — Cabrillo College has created a major that combines all three. Headquartered in several newly revamped buildings at the top of the Aptos campus, the Horticulture and Agriculture Technology Center offers the brand-new sustainable agriculture technology degree, eight classes
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siblings raised by a single mother and was considered a “rebellious youth,” said his daughter Melissa Salazar. All of this likely led to his passion for helping people, particularly troubled youth and teens, she said. “He probably saw himself in them,” she said. “He always told us, ‘learn from my lessons.’” Salazar’s rebellious nature changed when he hitchhiked to California and
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that include irrigation, greenhouse design, engineering and learning how technology ties it all together. Classes began in January. “Cabrillo horticulture has expanded to include agriculture and technology to meet the needs of our community and students,” said Agriculture Technology Specialist Sarah Hulick. Students can also major in environmental science or Please turn to Page 6
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Chamber column ................2 Briefs .................................4-5 Guest columns ..................10 Calendar .............................14 PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID WATSONVILLE, CA PERMIT NO. 23 ******ECRWSSEDDM****** POSTAL CUSTOMER APTOS, CA 95003 CAPITOLA. CA 95010
APRIL 2019
2 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
Science Fair draws more than 400 students Staff report
APTOS
SOQUEL
CAPITOLA
Publisher
Jeanie Johnson
Editor
Erik Chalhoub
Editorial
Todd Guild Johanna Miller Tony Nuñez Tarmo Hannula
SANTA CRUZ — More than 400 students, kindergarten through 12th grade, competed March 2 in the 31st annual Santa Cruz County Office of Education Science & Engineering Fair in Santa Cruz. Held at the Plantronics company in Harvey West Park, the one-day event drew on talent from students interested in the sciences. “I liked doing this project and I learned a lot,” said Rowan Haas, a sixth-grader at Rio Del Mar Elementary School. “I learned that ice can be a source of energy. This is my first time joining this project; it’s been fun.” The Santa Cruz-based Plantronics company stepped up and became the first such company to sponsor the event at it’s campus in Harvey West Park. Dozens of workers from Plantronics rolled up their sleeves and judged the presentations by students. “I love seeing what these kids can do,” said Miguel Azanar, lead judge at Plantronics. “That they are curious and want to move ahead with their ideas is so inspiring. We encourage kids to come and try their ideas out here and hopefully move forward to the national level.”
Gabriela Dow (right), a sixth-grader from Mar Vista Elementary School in Aptos, tells Mia Waters, a UC Santa Cruz graduate student, about her science project that explores using calcium to combat acid rain on March 2 at the annual Plantronics and Santa Cruz County Science and Engineering Fair. Staff photo
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Mike Lyon, Rob Chalhoub Life in Aptos, Capitola and Soquel is published monthly. All rights reserved, material may not be reprinted without written consent from the publisher. Life in Aptos, Capitola and Soquel made every effort to maintain the accuracy of information presented in this publication, but assumes no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions. Life in Aptos, Capitola and Soquel is a division of the RegisterPajaronian. Publishing in Santa Cruz County since 1868.
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LifeA.C.S
CHAMBER
OF
COMMERCE
April 2019
By KAREN HIBBLE
APTOS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Saying goodbye It is not easy to say goodbye, especially to our amazing friend and editor, Erik Chalhoub at Aptos, Capitola, Soquel, Life. We have worked with Erik for seven years and will miss him. Good luck with your new adventure, Erik. Don’t forget us. Name a brick for your family and become a permanent part of Aptos Village. These custom-made bricks can contain your name and/ or message and will be installed in the new Village Green. We have 50 bricks left to sell for the initial installation. While the new buildings are being named for families of the past, these bricks will remind us of the families and businesses who are here today. $200 covers everything including fabrication and installation. Once we get 100 bricks sold, we will
have a brick laying party and celebrate in the new village. The bricks can also be used for graduations, weddings and retirement
gifts as well as memorials. Call 6881467 or go to aptoschamber.com today and order your brick today. Be a part of Aptos … forever.
APRIL 2019
LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 3
‘On The Devil’s Road’: Local filmmakers make world debut in Santa Cruz
The documentary “The Devil’s Road� will make its debut at the Rio Theatre in Santa Cruz on April 27. Contributed photo
Staff report SANTA CRUZ — Four years ago, four Santa Cruz filmmakers set out to bring an historic expedition out of obscurity. The result was a feature-length historicalnature-adventure documentary called “The Devil’s Road.� The film will make its world debut at the Rio Theatre in Santa Cruz on April 27. “The Devil’s Road� is a culmination of more than four years’ worth of research, exploration, filming and post-production work to revive the pivotal work of two of America’s most prolific naturalists: Edward William Nelson and Edward Alphonso Goldman. While these are not household names, their research laid the foundation of scientific studies in Baja and were viewed as a link between Darwin and present-day scientists. Nelson and Goldman’s landmark expedition in 1905-1906 was unprecedented and completed in a time when the Baja Peninsula was considered one of the most remote and challenging areas in all of North America. They documented, cataloged, and obtained specimens of never-before-studied flora and fauna, all while trekking more than 2,000 miles on horseback. The pair made a number of significant scientific contributions to Baja’s natural history, and their expedition was the most thorough and complete studies of Baja’s ecosystems. It wasn’t just the early achievements of these two famed naturalists — though undeniably obscure outside of academic circles — that motivated the film crew. “It was only recently that, coincidentally enough, we learned our ‘Uncle Ed’ was the famed naturalist Edward Alphonso Goldman that worked with Edward William Nelson to explore the Baja Peninsula,� said Todd Bruce, the producer of “The Devil’s Road,� and the greatgrandnephew of Edward Goldman. “I have been traveling around Baja with my family since 1990. We had no idea we had much deeper roots there. Baja has captivated us over the years. Nelson and Goldman’s accomplishments, coupled with our familial connection to this unique place, were driving forces behind creating the film.� In early April 2016, the team made a trip to the nation’s capital to pour through documents and glass plate negative photographs in the archives of the Smithsonian Institution. With latex gloves, they sifted through letters between President Theodore Roosevelt and Nelson, read field notes written over a hundred years ago by Goldman, and inspected century-old photo albums and specimens collected by the pair during their expedition. The film crew was also invited by the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco to film archived specimens of mammals and birds collected by Nelson and Goldman during their time in Baja. On March 1, 2017, the film’s director,
JT Bruce, and producer set out on an expedition of their own, spending two months and covering more than 5,000 miles of Baja desert and coastline to retrace Nelson and Goldman’s original expedition route on motorcycles. The film documents their quest — by motorcycle, airplane, boat and horseback — across the Baja Peninsula where, along the way, they observe the culture and people, and endure the challenges of the road. The film includes interviews with biologists and conservationists that provide a reminder of how grueling the original expedition was and why Nelson and Goldman’s work was so fundamental, as well as offer insight into the precarious future of the fragile ecosystems of Baja — and beyond. “Much like our predecessor that inspired the film, knowing Baja on a more intimate level makes it incumbent upon us to be stewards of such a unique corner of the world. By sharing it with viewers we hope to help make a case for its conservation,� said Bri Bruce, the film’s associate producer and UC Santa Cruz alumni. “Baja is truly a magical place. There’s really no other way to describe it. I think I speak for anyone that has been fortunate enough to really witness it — stand in its deserts, swim in its oceans, get to know both the animals and the people there — they’ll see it’s worth fighting for.� “Baja is a biodiversity hotspot,� said “The Devil’s Road� Scientific Advisor Greg Meyer. Meyer is an educator at California State University, Monterey Bay, and a professional naturalist who led his first trip to Baja in 1985. He has traveled extensively throughout the peninsula, working for the Oceanic Society, Lindblad Expeditions, National Geographic Expeditions and the BBC. “The Baja Peninsula is still one of the great wildernesses on earth and this film project has allowed us to see the changes over time and to highlight why it needs protection today,� he said. “Our film is not just a historical documentary or motorcycle road movie,� said JT Bruce, the film’s director. “It’s not a reprimand on the audience for some perceived failure to protect the environment. It’s a chance to gain a wider perspective and view the trajectory that our planet’s ecosystems are on, and to help people make their own decisions about how we should approach the future.� The filmmakers anticipate a year of showings throughout the U.S. and internationally as they begin their film festival tour, starting at the Overland Expo in May in Arizona. Tickets for the premiere can be purchased at thedevilsroad.brownpapertickets.com. Tune in to KSCO’s Off the Lip Radio Show (AM 1080, FM 104.1) on April 17 at 7 p.m. where the filmmakers will be featured as guests. For information, visit www.devilsroadfilm.com.
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APRIL 2019
4 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
BEACH BOARDWALK
BAY FEDERAL
KIDS2PARKS
Bay Federal Credit Union announces 2018 Employee Award winners
Kids2Parks registration opens
Staff report
Contributed photo
Boardwalk presents first Fun Run
CAPITOLA — Bay Federal Credit Union recently honored its top performing employees and announced the winners of its Service Excellence Award for 2018. Bay Federal’s 2018 Award Winners:
Staff report SANTA CRUZ — The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk announced its first Fun Run will take place on April 7. The new event includes a 1K race for kids age 12 and under, and a 5K race for runners age 4 and up. All runners will receive a finisher medal, $5 MyBoardwalk Card, and up to two hours of free play in the Casino Arcade. Runners also receive an $8 discount for All-Day Rides on April 7. “We love outdoor events that everyone in the family can enjoy,” said Boardwalk event director Karley Pope. “Our new Fun Run is an exciting way for kids to experience our amusement park, and for families to make memories in our landmark location.” The 1K race through the Boardwalk starts at 8 a.m.; the 5K race through the Boardwalk and along the San Lorenzo River starts at 8:30 a.m. Boardwalk rides open at 11am. For information, visit beachboardwalk.com/Fun-Run.
• Service Excellence – Joey Coffman, Technology Services Manager • Service Excellence – Frank Sanchez, Santa Cruz Branch Service Manager • Sales and Service, Branch Manager – Nikki Correa, Capitola Branch • Sales and Service, Service Manager – Raquel Opiana, Capitola Branch • Sales and Service, Home Loan Consultant – David Torres, Lead Home Loan Consultant • Sales and Service, Deepening Member Relationships - Joseph Brito, Capitola Branch • Sales and Service, Member Experience – Denise Gomez, Capitola Branch • Sales and Service, Auto Loan Production - Adrian Vargas, Capitola Branch • Sales and Service, Mortgage Applications – Wimala Brown, Capitola Branch • Sales and Service, Member Service Center - Gerry Mendoza, Group Lead Specialist • Offstage Service – Allyson Stengl, AVP Consumer Lending • Offstage Service – Danny Daniels, Senior Network Engineer • Offstage Service – Anna Ladas, Senior Systems Analyst • Bay Ideas – Emily Nieters, Deposit Servicing and Support Specialist • Bay Ideas – Christina Gullickson, Marketing Specialist • Special Recognition – Judy Meyers, President, Coast-Tel Division
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Staff report SANTA CRUZ COUNTY — Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks (Friends) recently announced that registration for Kids2Parks, a park-equity program to bring students from Title 1 schools on State Park field trips, is now open at www.thatsmypark.org/ k2p. Registration will run through April 30 for field trips during the 2019-20 academic year. Kids2Parks offers free educational field trips in local State Parks to select Title 1 elementary schools in Santa Cruz, San Mateo and Santa Clara counties. Teachers apply online for the free field trips and will be informed by May 8 if their application was selected. Title 1 is a designation by the U.S. Department of Education that primarily indicates a high percentage of students from low-income families. The program, a partnership between California State Parks and nonprofit Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks, was field-tested in 2016 and 2017, and rolled out in 2018. This school year, Kids2Parks is expected to serve 2,820 elementary school students, many visiting a State Park for the first time. It is funded through grants and donations. New this year — field trips will be offered at The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park and Natural Bridges State Beach. “Increasing access to state parks and beaches creates long-term positive impacts for students, their families and our cherished parks and beaches,” Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks Executive Director Bonny Hawley said. “We’re proud to be working with State Parks on this program and extremely thankful to our donors who help make it possible.” For information and to apply, visit www.thatsmypark.org/k2p.
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LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 5
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
TRAILBLAZERS
County outlines projects to address homelessness
Trailblazers Award winners announced
Staff report SANTA CRUZ COUNTY — The County of Santa Cruz and Homeless Action Partnership recently announced award recipients through the HEAP/CESH funding process to help address the local homelessness crisis. In 2018, the state approved funding to address homelessness, allocating $500 million Homeless Emergency Aid Program (HEAP) and increasing funding to the ongoing California Emergency Solutions and Housing (CESH) program. Both programs are administered through the local Watsonville/Santa Cruz City/County Continuum of Care (CoC), with the local share of HEAP funds totaling $9,674,883.45 and CESH funds totaling $889,424. “The Santa Cruz County community has significant needs when it comes to addressing homelessness at the local level,” Santa Cruz County Homeless Services Coordinator Rayne Marr said. “Through this unprecedented opportunity, we’re significantly enhancing our system of shelter, services and prevention efforts to better serve the community. We thank all applicants for their thoughtful proposals and dedication to improving the lives of all Santa Cruz County residents.” The awards were issued based on a priority matrix developed by local elected officials, community members and nonprofits. They were selected through a review process following a conflict-ofinterest policy. All awards are subject to an appeal process. Through a previous emergency allocation process, the county and HAP awarded $1 million in emergency HEAP funds through a letter of interest process, resulting in immediate and additional shelter and service options for local homeless persons.
• • •
•
SANTA CRUZ CHORALE
Staff report SANTA CRUZ COUNTY — The Santa Cruz County Women’s Commission announced the four winners of the annual Trailblazers Awards recently. The Trailblazers Awards recognize people in Santa Cruz County who, through their professional or personal efforts, have made significant contributions to improving the lives of women or girls. This year’s Trailblazers Awards winners are: • Margaret Cariño-Condon: Co-founder and program coordinator for Salud y Cariño, a local nonprofit whose mission is to “Open doors for girls to take action and gain confidence through physical activity and healthy choices to live their best lives now and in the future.” • Casey Coonerty-Protti: Owner of Bookshop Santa Cruz and co-founder of the Alliance of Women Entrepreneurs, which is dedicated to creating community in downtown Santa Cruz. • Nicole Keadle: Member of the Justice and Gender Advisory Task Force, and advocate and role model to women involved with the criminal justice system. • Clara Minor: Owner of Minorsan, empowering women and girls through self-defense and fitness for more than 33 years. The Trailblazers Awards were presented during the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors meeting on March 26.
Santa Cruz Chorale wrapping up season Staff report SANTA CRUZ — The Santa Cruz Chorale will close out its 2018-2019 season April 27-28. The performance features selections from Joseph Haydn and Felix Mendelssohn. Haydn’s “Mass” (also known as “Harmoniemesse”) was his last major work and is famous for its orchestration with a full range of wind and brass instruments. For this concert, choral settings from Mendelssohn’s “Elijah” will be interspersed throughout the “Mass” as commentaries on the mass text. Mendelssohn’s Psalm 42, “Wie der Hirsch schreiet” (“As Pants the Hart”), is composed for orchestra, soprano solo, and choir. Since 2006, the Chorale has been directed by Christian Grube, performing three concert sets per year. Grube is emeritus professor of choral conducting at the Berlin University of Arts. The performances will be held April 27 at 8 p.m. and April 28 at 4 p.m. at Holy Cross Church, 123 High St., Santa Cruz. Admission is $25 general, $20 seniors and $5 students. For information and tickets, visit santacruzchorale.org or call 216-6015.
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History Corner
Continued from page 1
When Mexico gained independence from Spain, the land was taken away from the missions and parceled out into large ranchos that were granted to prominent Mexicans as a reward for their service to the country. In 1833, the first private ownership of land in our community was granted to Rafael Castro, by the Mexican Gov. Jose Figueroa, as a reward for Castro’s military and political service. The Aptos Rancho spanned from today’s Seascape Boulevard to Borregas Gulch near Cabrillo College and over two miles inland. Castro’s sister was granted the Soquel Rancho to the west and his father was granted the San Andres Rancho to the east. These land grants expanded our cowboy tradition in California from the early days of the missions. Mexican families raised huge herds of cattle tended by their children and Native American Indians. The cattle were raised for their leather hides and tallow. These were traded to
Yankees who sailed up the coast and were exchanged for finished goods which were not available locally. We don’t normally think of the Monterey Bay as cowboy country, but it was an important part of our history. The word “cowboy” is from the Spanish “caballero” (horseman). The Spanish word for horse is “caballo” and is pronounced ka-by-yo, (sounds a lot like “cowboy”). Cowboys, or more correctly Vaqueros, had to be expert horsemen and ropers, herd cattle, brand them, breed and break horses, and protect the herd from thieves and wild carnivores such as grizzly bears and mountain lions. Often, cowboys would ride hundreds of miles to secure additional cattle stock or horses from other ranches in California. When California became part of the United States in 1850, our Hispanic citizens and culture did not disappear. Don Vicente Castro, Rafael’s son, continued to raise cattle and assist neighbors in round-
Cabrillo College environmental studies. Several hundred people attended a grand opening celebration for the new center on March 20, inside the expansive new 2,000-square-foot greenhouse. The Horticulture and Agriculture Technology Center was funded by a $5 million grant by the U.S. Department of Education. The major covers topics such as hydroponics, aquaponics, organic substrate production, Global Information Systems and water and energy conservation. The program was created for students who want to go directly to work in the agriculture industry, said Cabrillo College spokeswoman Kristin Fabos. Possible careers include hydroponic growers, farmers, ranch
ups and branding until he moved to Santa Maria in 1900, carrying on a tradition more than 100 years old. The Aptos cowboy tradition continued at Sand Rock Farm for decades more and cattle ranching continues in the county to this day. Mexico gained its independence from Spain in 1821 and became a republic in 1824. Mexico had a civil war, the War of Reform, from 1857 until 1860 between liberals and conservatives. The liberals won, so the conservatives invited France to intervene. France invaded Mexico in 1861 during our own civil war so the United States could not provide assistance. On May 5, 1862, vastly outnumbered Mexican forces were victorious over the French army at the Battle of Puebla. Mexicans living in California at the time celebrated Cinco de Mayo as a symbol of resistance to foreign domination. Mexican miners in California’s gold country celebrated with speeches, gun fire, songs and fireworks. Today, Cinco de Mayo is
a more significant holiday in the United States than in Mexico and celebrates Mexican heritage, dance, cuisine and music. One important note, the French had also intended to support the Confederacy in the United States Civil War, but the Mexican resistance prevented that. Otherwise, the outcome of our Civil War might have been different. So, let’s celebrate! We’re going to party like it’s 1862. Sunday, May 5, at the Best Western Seacliff Inn from 2-4 p.m. There will be games, salsa dance lessons, fabulous hors d’oeuvres, a no host bar with margaritas and more, a silent auction, a split the pot raffle, and music provided by the Soquel High Jazz Band. We would appreciate any donations for the auction. Tickets are $40 general and $35 for museum members. For tickets and information, call 688-1467. Join the fun and support the Aptos History Museum.
have on this Central Coast here.” “We want to be innovators in the convergence of agriculture and technology, and we hope to supply the local ag industry with skilled talent and bring new ideas into
fruition with what we do here,” he said. ••• For information, visit www.cabrillo.edu/ academics/horticulture/agtech.html.
Continued from page 1
or operations managers and biological technicians, Fabos said. Cabrillo Ag Tech Club President Ashley Shields said the program was created to help the agriculture industry adapt to a world at risk of rising global temperatures due to human activity. “This is going to be our way to feed people in climate change,” she said. Cabrillo College President Matt Wetstein said the center and new major are the result of “many months of planning, learning and building.” “We’re kicking off a new era in horticulture and ag tech here at Cabrillo tonight,” Wetstein said. The center, Wetstein said, “aims to be a conduit for students in our region and the greater agricultural community that we
Hundreds of visitors toured the newly revamped Horticulture and Agriculture Technology Center at Cabrillo College on March 20. Photo by Todd Guild
Robert Salazar soon thereafter met Rebecca, the woman who would become his wife. “It was the day he changed his life,” Melissa Salazar said, adding that she liked to tease her father about his lifelong penchant for writing “mushy” love letters for his wife, and for gestures such as bringing her little gifts and coffee in bed. The couple frequently took walks along Rio Del Mar Beach, she said. They would have celebrated their 43rd wedding anniversary on May 20. At the same time Salazar met Rebecca, he began working for Aptos High School, where he lived with his wife in a mobile home. There, he was known for his friendly greetings and for being the first smile many people saw during the day, said AHS Principal Peggy Pughe. “Bobby was a Mariner through and through,” she said. “The most genuine person. He had a smile and a laugh for every single person he ever met.” Salazar was also known among the staff for participating in the school’s dress-up days, and it was not unusual for him to sing to them over the walkie-talkie radios, Pughe said. A member of California School Employees Local 132, Salazar served as president for several years and became known as a caring and effective leader. “He was amazing,” said current CSEA President Leticia Oropeza. “He never had a bad thing to say about anyone, and he always made a negative into a positive.” Recently, Salazar said he had gone to the Safeway grocery store in Aptos wearing pajamas and a robe, “just to get a rise out
Continued from page 1
of people,” Oropeza said. “We laughed and laughed at that,” she said. The Aptos Chamber of Commerce named Salazar as a Community Hero in 2015. He volunteered and helped organizations such as the California Highway Patrol, Aptos/La Selva Fire, Cabrillo College and many athletic groups, including the Aptos Sports Foundation. Pajaro Valley Unified School District Trustee Kim DeSerpa, whose trustee area includes Aptos High School called Salazar, “one of the finest individuals I’ve had the honor to work with and know.” “Bobby made everyone a friend,” DeSerpa said. “I and many, many others will miss his positivity and kind spirit.” A steadfast worker, Salazar stayed on the job until about a month before his death, Oropeza said. Even confined to bed, he received visitors and dispensed advice, and posted on Facebook about how wonderful life is, she said. And that, Melissa Salazar said, was the nature of her father, who frequently gave money or food to homeless people, and helped with fundraisers such as Relay For Life. “He was always there for everyone, no matter what,” she said. “He was always putting people above himself. Even in his last moments he was more worried about me and my mom.” “He is one of those rare people who is a saint among people,” she said. “He never did it for recognition.”
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Combatting a hidden problem Human trafficking symposium draws hundreds By TODD GUILD APTOS — For years, Deborah Pembrook told people she became passionate about combatting human trafficking after learning about the issue. But her story evolved when she realized that she herself had been a victim. Standing in front of a large audience at Santa Cruz County’s first human trafficking symposium on March 15, Pembrook said that, when she was a young girl, a trusted family friend brought her to truck stops and seedy motels to sell her for sex. When she first told that story at a human trafficking conference in 2007, the organizer told her she had been trafficked. “That gave me the gift of language, to really accurately name my experience,” she said. “And that started me on the road of healing, being able to talk about what happened.” Pembrook is now Human Trafficking Outreach Manager for the Monterey County Rape Crisis Center, and chairs the Coalition to End Human Trafficking in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties. At its core, human trafficking occurs when someone is forced to work through force, fraud or coercion, Pembrook said. This work can include labor or sex and can
Judge rejects challenge to rail provider
be found in massage parlors, truck stops, construction sites, farms and restaurants. And the issue can affect anyone, Santa Cruz County District Attorney Jeff Rosell said. “It’s very important for all of us to recognize that it really can happen to all sectors of our society, regardless of race, ethnicity, financial status, or whether you have substance abuse issues,” he said. The symposium packed Monschke Hall at Twin Lakes Church in Aptos with nearly 300 people that included law enforcement officials, mental health and social services providers, religious and business leaders and educators. The idea behind the event, Rosell said, was to educate people from across the county, who could then network and join force to combat the problem. “The objective here is to essentially raise awareness about human trafficking, try to explain what it is, and try to explain that it is taking place in our community,” he said. Rosell said that a shift in public perception toward human trafficking has made it somewhat easier to combat. Police no longer pursue criminal charges against victims of sexual trafficking, for example. “Law enforcement right now really
Santa Cruz County District Attorney Jeff Rosell addresses the crowd at the county’s first Human Trafficking Symposium on March 15. Photo by Todd Guild
is trying to focus on the people who are doing the trafficking as opposed to the victims,” he said. Still, thanks to the proliferation of computers and smartphones, human traffickers have gone from operating on street corners to the digital underbelly of the internet, making it much more difficult to find victims. Worse, victims are often scared to leave their situations, much less seek help or talk to police. “The difficulty is really getting the
people who are trafficked and come forward and testify from a criminal justice system perspective,” he said. “Also in providing services for these people, because they need to re-enter society in many instances. “So they need everything, because essentially they have nothing.” ••• For information on human trafficking, visit bit.ly/22VZ3rJ. The national human trafficking hotline is 888-373-7888.
Tools to Make Parenting Easier
By TODD GUILD SANTA CRUZ — A Santa Cruz County Superior Court judge on March 15 rejected a legal challenge to an earlier decision by the Regional Transportation Commission to enter an agreement with a rail operator to operate on the tracks that run from Watsonville to Davenport. Judge Paul Burdick denied the petition for writ of mandate in its entirety in the case of Santa Cruz County Greenway v. Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission. The decision stems from a June 2018 vote by the RTC to enter an agreement with St. Paul & Pacific Railroad Company, LLC, a subsidiary of Progressive Rail Incorporated. The ruling also finds that the RTC’s commitment to make FEMA-funded repairs to the storm damage on the Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line near Harkins Slough is categorically exempt from environmental review. “We are pleased with the court’s decision and look forward to getting back to work to repair the line and restoring in full this valuable resource to the community,” RTC Executive Director Guy Preston said. “Our agency is very committed to going above and beyond to ensure environmental care on all of our projects.” Santa Cruz County Greenway Executive Director Manu Koenig said in an email that he was disappointed by the ruling. “The law surrounding trains, federal preemption, and CEQA (California’s law to protect the environment) are complex,” Koenig stated. “We continue to believe that the RTC has acted unlawfully and are exploring our options, including appealing this ruling.” The RTC is currently working with a consulting company on the state and federal environmental permitting process for storm damage repairs along the rail line. In October 2018, the RTC submitted applications for permits and agreements to repair the line to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the California Regional Water Quality Control Board.
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APRIL 2019
8 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
The first steps toward college Cabrillo hosts thousands of fourth-graders By TODD GUILD APTOS — Nearly 3,000 fourth-grade students from around Santa Cruz County came to Cabrillo College’s Aptos campus March 8 to get their first taste of college life and, organizers hope, show them that post-secondary education is within their reach. Now in its seventh year, the Samper Fourth Grade Experience includes time
in the classroom, in addition to student performances and student and faculty presentations in the Cabrillo gymnasium. Santa Cruz County College Commitment hosts the event, an organization that began in 2012 and is made up of all Santa Cruz County K-12 school districts, Cabrillo College, CSU Monterey Bay, San Jose State University and UC Santa Cruz. It gets its name from Barbara Samper, who donated $1 million to launch the program.
Fourth grade students tour the Cabrillo College campus March 8 as part of an annual event that welcomes young students to the school to get a sample of college life. Staff photo
Nissan dealership project halted Staff report SOQUEL — A Santa Cruz County Superior Court judge on March 8 set aside the county’s approval of a proposed Nissan auto dealership at 41st Avenue and Soquel Drive, saying that the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) was flawed. Judge Paul Burdick ruled that the EIR failed to satisfy the informational purpose of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), adding that the county committed a prejudicial abuse of discretion by certifying the EIR. The ruling favors Sustainable Soquel, the group that sued the county. Burdick said that the county’s EIR failed to discuss and analyze alternatives that could avoid or reduce the development’s potential negative impacts, including intensified traffic congestion. Auto dealer and Pebble Beach resident
Don Groppetti, who proposed the project, and the County of Santa Cruz will have to submit a revised EIR if Groppetti chooses to continue the project, according to the ruling. CEQA guidelines state that “a project may not be approved as submitted if feasible alternatives are not able to substantially lessen the significant environmental effects of the project.” Burdick said that the alternatives selected by the county were flawed for numerous reasons and failed to satisfy both the procedural and substantive requirements of CEQA. The judge is expected by April 26 to issue a final ruling and spell out what the county and Groppetti must do to satisfy the CEQA mandates. Groppetti owns six auto dealerships in Visalia, including one Nissan dealership, along with another Nissan dealership in Gilroy.
Physical therapy studio opens in Aptos Jenna Weitzman, owner of Alliance Physical Therapy in Aptos, is shown with her dog, Zoe, in her new location in Aptos. The studio, which initially opened in 2014, swung open its doors March 2 and offers a host of services that address a wide spectrum of physical therapy issues and naturopathic topics. Her business is at 7887 Soquel Drive, Suites D and E. For information, visit www.alliancesantacruz.com or call 662-4567. Staff photo
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APRIL 2019
LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 9
What you can do now to prepare for fire season By Guest Columnist BECKY STEINBRUNER
Fire Safe Council Outreach and Education Committee
I woke up with a start when my son yelled, “Mom! There’s a fire across the street!” It was nearly 1 a.m., but when I opened my eyes, I saw the brilliant orange glow through the window of two homes across the street completely engulfed in flames that were shooting up more than 50-feet into the redwood trees, also on fire. That was over five years ago, yet if I close my eyes, the sights, sounds and smells are all very real, and I still vividly remember feeling the panic of not being sure of what to do first. Fire in the wildland and all that gets destroyed with it is on the minds of many in California. The recent deadly Tubbs and Camp Fires that devastated suburbs and wildland alike have given us all cause to ponder: What would I do if it happened here? Could such fires happen here? The answer is “Yes.” You can begin preparing your family and home for wildfire now, and be miles ahead when fire season arrives. The important thing is to just do something and get started,
building muscle-memory for the actions you may have to actually perform when needed ... much like a firefighter who trains repeatedly. 1. Get Connected: Begin by making sure that your correct phone numbers and address are in the county emergency notification system. Register online at www.scr911. org and click on “CodeRed.” You can register phone numbers of various family members and your home and work address, to make sure that you and your family receive emergency alerts affecting your home or business, any time during the day or night. Gov. Newsom has pledged to spend $10 million this year and $50 million next year to upgrade the state’s 911 emergency alert system, to ensure improvements are made for faster notification in rapidly-spreading fire conditions. 2. Five Minute Evacuation Plan: Look around your home. If you had five minutes to get out, what would you do? What would you absolutely have to take along, with the eerie thought that you may never be able to come back to things intact? If you had no time to grab anything at all (such was the case of my neighbor who awoke to find the neighboring house fire had rapidly
spread to hers) ... what would you do? • Take some time now and walk yourself and family members through a drill ... doing so will build critical muscle memory that will kick in when you are in such a panic that you just can’t think. • Having a grab-and-go kit by the exits of your home will help you have the basics you need: water, non-perishable food that is nourishing and comforting, a flashlight and spare batteries, copies of critically-important documents (insurance, medical, list of phone contacts for family members in case you don’t have your own phone with you), and any medications that you must take regularly on a strict schedule. • Keep a duplicate kit in your car, too, because fires may occur while you are away from home, and you may not be able to return to your home to retrieve anything at all. Take photographs of all rooms in your home ... it could be helpful if you need to document losses with your insurance company later. 3. Your Pet Plan: Do you have pets that would need your help evacuating? • Have a bit of food in your grab-and-go kit for them, too. • What would you do for your pets if you were away when a fire begins, and you cannot get back to retrieve your pets? Think that through now ... do you have neighbors who could help? Do you know their phone numbers? Call them now, and work out a plan now for such an emergency. Walk yourself through evacuating your pets, and build that muscle memory. 4. Defensible Space: If you live in the woods, now is a good time to look around outside your home and begin improving fire defensible space. The strategy with creating defensible space is to start at your home and work out. • Begin by taking a tour around your house and imagine it is a hot, dry day. Your focus is on the five feet immediately surrounding your house. Look at the following with a critical eye: any shrubs, plants or organic mulches adjacent to your house, the state of any wooden fences and decks connected directly to your house, accumulated piles of leaves banked up in corners, patio furniture, brooms, or wooden ladders within five feet of your
house, and any leaves and debris on your roof or in your gutters. Take action now to reduce or eliminate these hazards, and you will be accomplishing the most important step you can to help make your home safer and more defendable in a wildland fire. • The next step is to look at the next 30 feet expanding out from your house. You’ll want to make sure it is free of dead plant material and low-hanging branches. Trim trees to create at least 10-foot clearance from chimneys and walls. Plant fire-resistant plants that are appropriate for your area. Stack firewood or construction materials at least 30 feet from any structures. If you are able, extend this fire defensible space to 100 feet from all structures by thinning shrubs, creating open space between bushes and trees, and removing all dead vegetation. 5. Get Started Now: If this seems overwhelming, choose one aspect of the work above, and start with that this week. Follow up the next week with another. What is most critical is that you just get started now, and build muscle-memory that will serve you and your family well when you need it most ... maybe at 1 a.m. in the middle of this summer’s fire season. You can find more information at the websites listed below: • Fire Safe Santa Cruz County: www. firesafesantacruz.org • Cal Fire: www.fire.ca.gov/ communications/communications_ firesafety_100feet • Santa Cruz County Office of Emergency Services: www.co.santa-cruz.ca.us/ Departments/EmergencyServices.aspx ••• Fire Safe Santa Cruz County (FSSCC) was formed in September 2016 as a nonprofit corporation in the state of California through collaboration between local fire safe councils, Cal Fire, local government, water districts, nonprofit organizations, industry, and the Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County (RCD). FSSCC is overseen by a Board of Directors.
For information, call 464-2950, extension 28, or email info@ firesafesantacruzcounty.org.
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APRIL 2019
10 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
Second District Update - The Census — being counted matters! Once each decade, the U.S. Census Bureau attempts to count every person in the United States. The next count will occur in a year and will be the first to rely heavily on online responses. Here in our county, we are doing a lot to ensure everyone is counted.
By ZACH FRIEND
Why does it matter? An accurate count of our state’s population is essential. The data collected by the Census determines the number of seats each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives and is used to distribute billions of dollars in federal funds to state and local governments. This means that the Census numbers directly impact funding for essential programs right here in Santa Cruz County. Health programs, children’s programs and more rely on federal funding that is distributed in part through these counts.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY SUPERVISOR
What are the challenges to an accurate count? The primary challenge is the undercount of certain population groups. This is particularly the case in California and right here in Santa Cruz County. Areas that have foreign-born residents, renters, individuals living in homes without a broadband subscription (as many in the rural areas of our county), people living close to or below the poverty line, and children younger than 5 years old. These difficult-to-count populations mean that we may undercount residents. What outreach is being done? California launched a statewide effort to ensure an accurate and complete count of Californians in the 2020 Census. The “California Complete Count” is California’s 2020 Census effort and is handling outreach with a particular focus on the hardest-to-count residents. The state invested over $100 million toward this effort and Santa Cruz County applied for funding to perform outreach
locally. Local governments, communitybased organizations and the media are all partnering to ensure information is shared. This is on top of national work being performed by the U.S. Census Bureau. All materials will be translated, social media and traditional media outreach will be conducted and informational events will be held throughout the community. How can I learn more? First, you are always welcome to contact my office with any questions at 454-2200. The state has a website dedicated to the Census at census.ca.gov — the county has a resource page going up in April that can be found at www.santacruzcounty.us. There are local Census staff that can help and local nonprofit organizations such as the Community Action Board that will be doing outreach to ensure everyone is accurately counted. As always, I appreciate your feedback. If you have any questions or comments you can call me at 454-2200.
Financial Advice
Where’s my refund? By GARY E. CROXALL, CFP® and SOREN E. CROXALL, CFP® With April 15 just two weeks away, tax season is in full swing. We mentioned in our January article that many people were likely to be surprised that come tax filing time the refund that they have come to expect every year in the spring has evaporated, or worse yet, they now owe money to the IRS! It appears that this prediction is turning out to be true as the IRS has stated that the average refund is down over 8 percent from last year. We thought this would be a good time to review where your refund may have gone as well as ideas of where to use your refund if you do end up with one this year. Where’s my refund? If you consistently receive a refund and this year find that your refund is a lot smaller or you owe the IRS, there are a couple of likely reasons. The 2018 tax year is the first tax year under the new Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. In our previous articles
we’ve reviewed some of the major changes that took place. However, what many people failed to realize was that the IRS updated withholding tables in February 2018 to reflect the new tax law, yet many employees didn’t check to see that their withholding selections were still up to date in light of the tax law changes. So it’s likely a lot of people who normally receive refunds when they file their returns instead received their refund in the form of less tax withholding on their paystub throughout 2018. Another area in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that changed substantially was itemized deductions. High tax states like California are likely to have taxpayers who easily reach the new $10,000 cap on the SALT deduction. Before 2018, taxpayers who itemized their deductions could deduct the amount paid in state income taxes as well as property taxes. Now the limit is $10,000 total for both taxes combined. Also, you can no longer deduct unreimbursed employee expenses. If you find that you owe the IRS this year, work with a qualified tax professional to see how to adjust your withholding elections accordingly.
Emergency fund If you find that this year you will receive a refund, be sure to put it to good use! If you don’t have an emergency fund established or it’s running low, consider using your refund to start on or add to one. It’s not a question of if unexpected expenses are going to come up, but when unexpected expenses are going to come up. Having an emergency fund will allow you to pay for those unexpected expenses so you don’t have to resort to more expensive options like using a credit card.
through the types of accounts that are available and the pros and cons associated with them. Remember that a tax refund is not a gift from the government. Far from it! It is simply a return to you of your own money that you over deposited throughout the year through tax withholding or estimated tax payments. If your refund is consistently large, it would be a good idea to evaluate how much you are withholding versus how much you are likely to owe and make adjustments accordingly.
Pay Down Consumer Debts If you’re carrying high interest credit card balances, consider using part of your refund to pay down or pay off those balances. Consider paying down the balance with the highest interest first. Or if you have a smaller balance that you can completely extinguish, consider paying that off.
Gary E. Croxall, CFP® Registered Principal of LPL
Children’s college fund If you’ve been putting off starting a college fund for your child, consider opening one up and using part of your refund as seed money. Work with a qualified professional who can walk you
Soren E. Croxall, CFP® Registered Representative of LPL Securities and Advisory Services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor. Member FINRA & SIPC. LPL Financial and Croxall Capital Planning do not provide tax or legal advice. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
An open letter to the Soquel Creek Water District Early this year, the board and the management of the Soquel Creek Water District sent notice informing customers of proposed increases in water rates and service charges. The notice consists of eight pages, four of which outline the need for the increases. The notice announces a public hearing to be held on Feb. 19. Throughout the notice, the need to develop a supplemental water supply is mentioned. However, the nature of that supplemental supply is not explained. They are referring to a project they have already spent a ton of money on which they wish to complete at a cost of several million dollars. It is known as the Pure Water Soquel project, the object of which is to treat sewage water and inject it into the aquifer. They should not be allowed to contaminate the aquifer with sewer water, treated or not. It is yet to be proven that all contaminants can be removed. Do we want another Flint, Mich. here? Moreover, it is not necessary to resort to using sewer water as there is evidence of the availability of plenty of water without it. Yet they continue to cling steadfastly to the idea that it is needed. Another issue that is referred to is protecting the over-drafted aquifer. This issue can be really confusing as the district goes right on issuing connection permits in spite of the overdraft. Perhaps this can be
explained by the tens of thousands of dollars each new connection nets them. To quote Elizabeth Warren, “The influence of money is everywhere in politics.” The relationship between the Aptos Village Project and the district has been troublesome. There have been signs posted on the fence extolling the idea that it has saved large amounts of water, due in part to offset credits granted for the replacement of 80 toilets and 40 urinals at Cabrillo College. The replacement of a single toilet results in a record of up to four pages stating the details of it. When asked for proof of developer Swenson’s work, Cabrillo produced a single page signed by a project foreman. The water district produced no reasonable evidence either. If this work was actually done, it is up to Cabrillo, the water district and/or the developer to prove it. Relations between district management and the public can be troublesome as well. In mid-2017, I came across an illegal connection to a water distribution line. In a hole roughly two-feet deep, there was a hole connected to a pipe and a workman was spraying the ground for dust abatement. There was no meter in sight. The next time I saw this site, the hole had been filled and a concrete meter box had been placed there. There was no lid on the box, and some gray plastic pipes stuck out of it. Strange! A bit later, everything disappeared.
I sent a later dated Aug. 8, 2017 to the water board describing what I had seen. I received a response from the district manager dated Aug. 10 stating simply, “We have investigated and are taking appropriate action.” Another letter from the manager arrived Sept. 9, 2017, which he said was additional response to my letter. This letter was rife with comment which I felt was unnecessary or of questionable veracity. He stated that they had been aware of the connection since July 19 and had taken appropriate action, “several weeks before your letter arrived.” He also stated that the service was legal and being paid for. Then he stated that “the meter had been removed” but at no time did I see a meter there. Owing to this questionable claim, I was prompted to attend the next board meeting to see if I could get at the heart of the matter. I used my three minutes at the meeting asking for information and getting nothing satisfactory in return. When returning to my seat, something was said up front that caused me to speak out to which a board member said, “You may ask questions, but you are not entitled to answers.” In short, I was told to sit down and shut up! I attended the last of three meetings in which the people were invited to get more information regarding the proposed rate increases and urged to write protest letters. I was surprised to see the water district
manager and one of the board members sitting in the front row. Perhaps they were there to dissuade the people from protesting. When we are at meetings of the board, we get three minutes to express our thoughts. Yes, we are not limited to one turn at the podium. I would wager that these two took up to 45 percent of the time while they attended the meeting. Of course, there was no three-minute limit, but they lived up to the reason why I don’t trust them. •••
Thomas Stumbaugh is a resident of Aptos. His opinions are his own and not necessarily those of Life Aptos, Capitola and Soquel. •••
Life Aptos, Capitola, Soquel welcomes letters and guest columns about local issues. Letters should be about 300 words or less. Guest columns should run no longer than about 800 words and should include a oneparagraph biography at the end of the column and a photograph if available. Letters and columns may be dropped off at the Register-Pajaronian, 100 Westridge Drive, Watsonville, CA 95076. Email is the best way to send columns and letters — newsroom@registerpajaronian.com. Our fax number is 722-8386. All submissions must be signed and have a street address and phone number for verification purposes. We reserve the right to edit and condense all submissions.
APRIL 2019
LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 11
Ask Nicole: Quality time matters I recently read that “According to a [2007] report by the A.C. Nielsen Company, parents spend only 39 minutes per week in meaningful conversation with their children.” Yikes. That’s less time than it takes me to watch one meaningful episode of “This Is Us.” Although the report is more than 10 years old, I wouldn’t be surprised if this statistic were worse now, given the exponential growth in use of smartphones and social media within the last decade. It makes me wonder how many minutes of meaningful conversation I have with my kids each week, and whether conversations about homework, chores, carpool schedules, spending habits and sports schedules are considered meaningful. If they aren’t, then I have a lot of catching up to do. This monthly column provides tips for anyone who is helping raise children, based on the worldrenowned Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, available to families in Santa Cruz County. If you have a question or idea for a future column, please email me at triplep@first5scc.org.
Dear Nicole, My family is doing fine overall — no major conflicts or problems with my kids’ behaviors. But our daily schedule is hectic with school, work, child care, after-school activities, homework and social activities. Sometimes it seems like we only see each other for a few minutes at the beginning and end of each day, when we’re all too rushed or tired to talk to each other. What can I do to stay connected to my kids and not let our busy lives get in the way?
— Kira Dear Kira, Good question! In Triple P, Quality Time and Talking or Communicating with children and teens are the first two parenting strategies that are taught, as they form the foundation of strong family relationships and connections. Quality Time can be brief, as long as it’s frequent and focused on things children and teens need or are interested in. This opens the door to Talking and Communicating in both good and difficult times, no matter how busy everyone is. Here are some tips to try: • Give kids brief and frequent attention — it adds up over time. Many times, kids only need or want a few minutes of attention before they’re off to the next activity or task. When your child or teen wants to ask, tell or show you something, stop what you’re doing, make eye contact,
and listen (instead of saying “in a minute”). Giving quality time in this way sends the message that they matter, and you care. • Eat at least one meal together each day. Use this time to reconnect with each other, even if it’s only for a short amount of time at the beginning or end of the day. Turn mealtimes into quality time by turning off electronic devices and talking about things each person is thinking, feeling or doing. This also helps children and teens learn important communication skills, such as taking turns asking questions, talking and listening. • Do things together without electronic devices. Turn devices off, or at least silenced and out of sight, for an agreedupon amount of time. Go on walks, play cards or other games, read books, go shopping, play a sport, cook meals, or just sit quietly together. It doesn’t have to be an expensive or all-day activity — when it comes to family time, quality and consistency matter the most. • Turn everyday routines into quality time. Researchers have found that children view everyday routines and hanging out with parents as valuable family time. Imagine that! Talk with your kids on the way to or from child care or school, ask if they need help with homework (even if it’s just helping them review what assignments they have), talk or listen to music while you do chores together, or “make a date” to watch a TV show or movie together. These small moments may seem insignificant but can create a lasting impression.
• Play together. Make up a game using your imagination, or play a structured game with rules. Either way, kids of all ages will enjoy laughing and doing something as a family that has nothing to do with chores, school work or family rules. Playful moments often create the best, longest-lasting family memories. Final thoughts: Quality Time and Talking or Communicating with children and teens are two of the most effective parenting strategies. Using them can help build and maintain strong relationships with children and teens of all ages, and they don’t have to cost anything except your time and imagination. ••• Nicole Young is the mother of two children, ages 15 and 19, who also manages Santa Cruz County’s Triple P - Positive Parenting Program, the world’s leading positive parenting program. Scientifically proven, Triple P is made available locally by First 5 Santa Cruz County, the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency (Mental Health Services Act) and the Santa Cruz County Human Services Department. To find a Triple P parenting class or practitioner, visit triplep.first5scc. org, www.facebook.com/triplepscc or contact First 5 Santa Cruz County at 465-2217 or triplep@first5scc.org.
If your mortgage or rent increased to $5,600 per month would you be able to afford it? That's the average monthly cost of assisted living in Santa Cruz County.... Source: Genworth 2018 Cost of Care Study
Contact Croxall Capital Planning For a complimentary consultation on your long term care planning options A: 9057 Soquel Dr. Bldg B, Ste A Aptos, CA 95003 P: (831) 661-4006 E: gary.croxall@lpl.com W: www.croxallcapital.com
Gary Croxall is a registered principal of and securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC. CA Insurance Lic. #0532176
APRIL 2019
12 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
SPORTS
WITH
TONY NUNEZ
Threading the needle: Moody takes aim at pro dreams By G.P. SCHEPPLER APTOS — Earning the opportunity to play professional baseball is insanely difficult. It demands elite hand-eye coordination, resilience, speed, power, self-confidence and patience. Just getting drafted, never mind playing an inning in the major leagues, is an accomplishment and a privilege. That is the goal for Cabrillo College sophomore shortstop Kai Moody. Get drafted. Turn pro. A contact hitter who has the frame to develop power with increased body mass, Moody projects as a prototypical middle infielder capable of getting on base in a variety of ways while providing solid defense up the middle. “My fielding is usually my best weapon,” said Moody. “I feel like I have range on the infield, I can get to balls a lot of other people can’t.” To get serious draft consideration though, Moody knows he must not only get to the ball, but also successfully deliver them to the appropriate base — something he has struggled with over the last two years because of a hitch in his throwing motion. When Moody releases the ball to first base, it tails out of his hand and moves like a two-seam fastball. A great skill to have while on the mound. In the middle infield? Not so much. Over 58 games at the college level, Moody’s faulty throwing motion has produced 24 errors. In the race to draw attention in the draft, little things like throwing accuracy can mean the difference between being selected or not. Realizing this, Moody has worked with pitching coach Mike DiTano since arriving on campus to correct the deficiency. “We are trying to eliminate arm drag,” DiTano said. “We are trying to incorporate his body, to keep his front side pointed at the target, to fire the right hip and right shoulder to allow proper sequencing in his throwing to improve accuracy, fatigue and injury prevention.” If he is unable to straighten out his throws, it is likely that Moody would find himself a full-time second baseman where its easier to stash a wild arm, or he may be overlooked entirely. “My goal off the bat since I came here (Cabrillo College) is that this is going to part of my journey towards being a professional,” Moody said. “I started playing baseball as soon as I could walk with my dad, and it has always been my goal to play professionally. From the first time I talked to coach, I knew this was the best place to help me do that. But for now, I have to pay attention to this season.” By its very nature, baseball is a sport of attrition that rewards those who can endure and adapt as they progress through various levels of competition. Each spring, 15 million boys take to little league fields across America with the dream of one day becoming a pro player. Only about 450,000 continue to play through high school and that number dwindles to just 48,000 by the time college rolls around. Less than .025 percent of the remaining pool of players go on to be drafted by major league franchises. “(Kai Moody) is right on the fringe,”
Cabrillo College sophomore shortstop Kai Moody makes a toss toward first base during a recent game. Photo by G.P. Scheppler
said Cabrillo baseball coach Bob Kittle. “He needs to get bigger and stronger and prove himself at the next level.” If Moody makes it to a NCAA D-1 school, the probability of him being drafted skyrockets to 10.5 percent. While Cabrillo is most certainly not the famous Xavier School for Gifted Youngsters from the X-Men comic book franchise, it has become a finishing school of sorts for young men on their road to four-year institutions that hope to one day be selected in the First-Year Player Draft. In nine seasons with coach Kittle at the helm, four Seahawks have gone on to be selected by major league franchises, including Atlanta Braves relief pitcher, and Santa Cruz native, Shane Carle. Moody has had to learn how to play through minor injuries, and more significant setbacks on his quest to play in The Show. In September, Moody underwent Laparoscopic Hernioplasty surgery to repair tears in his abdomen and right oblique, forcing him to take a month-anda-half off from baseball-related actives. The time away from the game was maddening for the young seamhead, as Moody readily admits he was relentless in his efforts to be cleared to participate in the fall-ball schedule. While the procedure is considered to have been successful, Moody still deals with some lingering ingame discomfort and post-game sourness that is to be expected up to a year following surgery. Based on his throwing issues and recent surgery, it seems unlikely that Moody will be drafted this June. But with opportunities to continue playing at a four-year NCAA D-1 school already available to the young stud, there is still time to adapt and correct his flaws.
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APRIL 2019
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR April 6-7 Santa Cruz Bonsai Kai exhibit
The 31st annual Santa Cruz Bonsai Kai will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History, 705 Front St. in Santa Cruz. The Santa Cruz Bonsai Kai is a local club devoted to promoting and teaching bonsai as an art form. Admission to the museum and exhibit is $5.
April 10 Networking lunch
The Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce will hold a networking lunch at Bargetto Winery, 3535 North Main St. in Soquel, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is $20 for chamber members, or $25 for non-members. For reservations, call 475-6522.
April 13 Spring Fling Flea Market
The Cabrillo Host Lions will host its annual flea market and golden treasures rummage sale at Aptos Village Park from
APRIL 2019
8 a.m.-2 p.m. Free admission. Donate your used eye glasses, food for the club’s veteran’s food pantry, and children’s books for Live Like Coco and receive a chance to win prizes.
Hotel. Kids 12 and under can hunt for candy-filled eggs hidden in the sand.
April 14
The 78th Annual Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce Annual Community Awards and Art & Wine Auction Gala will take place at the Best Western Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion Court in Aptos, from 5:30-9:30 p.m. Admission is $70 per person. For reservations, call 475-6522.
Aptos Fashion Show
The event will be held at Seascape Beach Resort from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Models will be walking the runway to music by DJ Jenn, wearing the latest spring fashion from Sockshop and Shoe Company, Kickback Boutique, Cinnamon Bay, Hopscotch, O’Neill Surf Shop, Pacific Wave Surf Shop, Fleet Feet of Aptos, and Xandra Swimwear. The show is presented by the Aptos Chamber of Commerce; with partial proceeds benefiting Caroline’s Nonprofit Thrift Shop. For information and to register, call 688-1467 or visit www. aptoschamber.com.
April 20 Easter egg hunt
The annual Capitola Village Easter Egg Hunt is slated for 11 a.m. on Capitola Beach in front of the Capitola Venetian
April 26 Community Awards gala
April 27
May 3 82% Micro Summit
Business
Three hundred local business owners will gather to share ideas and learn how to grow their businesses from leading entrepreneurship experts at the annual 82% Micro Business Summit at Cabrillo College. For information and a schedule, visit www.microbusinesssummit.com.
May 4
Mar Vista School live Soquel Village Sip & Stroll auction The Mar Vista Elementary School Live
The fourth annual event will be held throughout Soquel Village from 1-5 p.m. Tasting stations are hosted by local businesses, celebrating local wineries, and will offer an array of complimentary small bites. Early Bird tickets are $35, or $40 the day of the event. For information and tickets, visit tinyurl.com/y3vcq6r8.
Auction Fiesta will be held at Severino’s, 7500 Old Dominion Court in Aptos, from 6-10 p.m. The raffle offerings include stays in Cabo, Tahoe, Costanoa and more, as well as Disneyland Park Hopper Tickets, Fantic E-bike, Dr. Joiner Orthodontics, Costanoa, and more. The event will also include a buffet dinner, professional auctioneer, DJ and dancing. Proceeds support the school’s art, STEM, field trips and after school programs. For information and tickets, visit marvista.pvusd.net.
APTOS
SOQUEL
CAPITOLA
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28% or 1.6 million crashes each year involve cell phones.
The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates 1.4 million crashes each year are caused by drivers using cell phones and a minimum of 200,000 additional crashes are caused by drivers who are texting.
Distracted driving claimed 3,450 lives in 2016 alone. Distracted driving kills. It’s up to you to stay focused and pay attention behind the wheel. This urgent message of safety brought to you by:
APRIL 2019
LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 15