LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola & Soquel

Sports Page 12

Aptos Cinemas closes Page 15

APTOS

FEBRUARY 2016

SOQUEL

CAPITOLA EVERYTHING APTOS, CAPITOLA & SOQUEL

Vol. 4 No. 7

Business Showcase moves to new location

By ERIK CHALHOUB APTOS — After 15 years at the Capitola Mall, the Capitola/Soquel and Aptos Chambers of Commerce is taking its annual Business Showcase on the road.

The Business Showcase, now in its 31st year, will take place Wednesday, Feb. 24 at the Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Drive in Aptos, from 4-7 p.m.

“We are really looking forward to it,” said Karen Hibble, co-executive director of the Aptos Chamber of Commerce. “We hope everyone can come and get to know everything about their local community.”

With the theme “Exploring New Avenues,” about 85 vendors will take over a series of rooms at the golf club, featuring cooking demonstrations, storm readiness, Sheriff and CHP demos on safety, health and wellness, crafts and more.

Please turn to Page 6

HISTORY CORNER

By John Hibble Call: 688-1467 Visit us online: aptoshistory.org Visit the museum: 7605-B Old Dominion Court Aptos, CA

A massive wave surges high into the air after smashing into the sea wall at the Capitola Esplanade on Jan. 22. Photo by Tarmo Hannula

A message of inclusion

International group performs at Aptos Junior High

APTOS — In a series of flips, twirls, nunchuck actions and wheelchair swivels, Break the Barriers, a group of people with different physical, neurological Please turn to Page 9

Please turn to Page 6

The seawalls of Seacliff Beach

Please turn to Page 7

By ERIK CHALHOUB APTOS — A small thrift shop in Aptos known for its charitable giving has once again surpassed its own record.

On Jan. 24, Caroline’s Non Profit Thrift Shop gave away $250,000 to 21 nonprofit organizations during a ceremony at Café Rio. Last year, the shop gave out what was then a record $240,000, and since it opened in 2010, has donated $850,000 to local nonprofits, according to owner Christy Licker.

“I feel there is a huge need in Santa Cruz County,” said Licker, who was honored as the Aptos Chamber of Commerce’s Woman of the Year in October. “There are a lot of nonprofits here who provide pretty vital services for children.”

All the nonprofits that Caroline’s donated to provide services for children with special medical, developmental or psychological needs, including the “Core Four” recipients, which consist of Children’s Hospice and Palliative Care Coalition, Hospice of Santa Cruz County, Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Support Services and Special Parents Information Network. The four nonprofits received $25,000 each.

The thrift store was founded in memory of Licker’s daughter, Caroline, who died at 16 and had received support from the “Core Four” organizations.

Located on 402 Trout Gulch Road in Aptos,

And then there were none

What are those metal things sticking out of the sand at Seacliff Beach? I have been asked that question many times. They are the remains of an old seawall.

Not just any old seawall, but the first seawall. Iris Kammersgard, a docent at Seacliff, called me in midJanuary to ask me some questions about the seawalls and suggested that this would be a good subject for my next history story.

For the last four winters it seemed like we had moved to southern California with balmy, warm days and blue skies. The king tides were an opportunity to walk from New Brighton Beach to Capitola below

Thrift store donates $250K

Members of Break the Barriers, who define themselves as “pioneers in the world of inclusion,” perform an acrobats skit for the students of Aptos Junior High on Jan. 22. Photo by Tarmo Hannula

By BEK PHILLIPS

Inside ...

Spelling bee........................2 Briefs ...............................4-5 Guest columns..................11 PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID WATSONVILLE, CA PERMIT NO. 23 ******ECRWSSEDDM****** POSTAL CUSTOMER APTOS, CA 95003 CAPITOLA. CA 95010

February 2016

2 - LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel

Aptos Junior High student wins first place in spelling bee division

By TARMO HANNULA and TODD GUILD

Pratham Rathi, 13, an eighth-grader at Aptos Junior High School, came in first place in the middle school division. Photo by Tarmo Hannula

APTOS

SOQUEL

CAPITOLA

Publisher - John Bartlett General Manager - Amy Bartlett Editor - Erik Chalhoub Editorial Todd Guild, Tony Nuñez, Tarmo Hannula, Bek Phillips

Photography - Tarmo Hannula Advertising Sales

Tina Chavez, Allison Stenberg, Adriana Novack, Maribel Falcon, Andre Cano

Production - Daryl Nelson Design - Mike Lyon 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 Register-Pajaronian. Publishing in Santa Cruz County since 1894.

SANTA CRUZ — Close to 100 of Santa Cruz County’s top spellers and their families and supporters gathered on Jan. 23 at UC Santa Cruz for the annual countywide spelling bee, sponsored by the Santa Cruz County Office of Education.

The students, selected as the top two spellers from their schools, represented more than 40 public and private schools from around Santa Cruz County in an elementary division and junior division.

The Spelling Bee is a written event.

Spellmasters provide a definition and use the word in a sentence. Then each student is given 15 seconds to write the word.

After approximately 60 to 80 words have been spelled, the student with the most correct spellings wins.

Aptos Junior High School eighth-grader Pratham Rathi, 13, who won first place in the junior division, said he was reluctant to compete, even as his parents encouraged him to try. He was the top winner, misspelling only four of 70 words.

Pratham said he first was marked wrong on the word “a capella,” which organizers believed should be spelled with no space between the “a” and the “c.” But he raised his hand to challenge the organizers, who admitted their mistake and returned his points after researching it.

“That was probably the most thrilling moment for me,” he said.

Pratham said he was excited to follow in the footsteps of a friend who has twice been in the competition.

“I feel great,” he said. “I’ve always wanted to go to the state spelling bee.”

He had advice for anyone hoping to succeed in a spelling bee, or anywhere else: “If you’re going to start something,

be determined until the end,” he said.

Event coordinator Sofia Sorensen said emotions ran high in the elementary division, where students in grades 4-6 cheered or groaned as the correct spelling of each word was revealed.

After correctly spelling 77 of 78 words, Damian Cardenas of San Lorenzo Valley Elementary School emerged as the county’s top speller in this division, correctly spelling words such as “silhouette” and “aluminum.”

At the event, as elementary kids wrestled with spelling in one room, adjacent to them a smaller field of seventh- through ninthgraders gathered in another classroom for the junior division.

The top two students in each division will represent Santa Cruz County at statewide spelling bees to be held this spring.

Paula Twisselman, a physical education teacher at Calabasas Elementary School, said she has volunteered as a proctor at the event for the past six years.

“I enjoy helping here because I enjoy seeing the kids challenge themselves,” she said. “It’s also great to come to the university campus and get these kids in this environment and to be a part of it.”

Winners received prizes donated by community businesses, including Boardwalk passes and Roller Palladium passes, and trophies from Brinks Awards and Signs.

Rachél Lather-Hidalgo Being appointed to Soquel Creek prepared for El Nino Water District Board Staff report SOQUEL — At the Jan. 13 public meeting, the Soquel Creek Water District’s board of directors unanimously appointed Rachél Lather-Hidalgo of Aptos as a new director. She recently retired from the County of Santa Cruz where she worked as a senior civil engineer.

Lather-Hidalgo was one of 15 applicants for the board seat left vacant when Director Richard Meyer passed away in late November.

“Each person brought their own unique skill set, but Rachél stood out.

She has great knowledge of local water resource management, specifically waste water management, which will be increasingly important as we explore advanced purification of waste water for groundwater replenishment as a potential supplemental water supply. We are excited to have her as part of our director team,” said Board President Bruce Daniels.

The five directors determine policy for the agency and are publicly elected by voters in the District’s service area to fouryear terms. However, new directors can be appointed through a public process when an unexpected vacancy occurs.

To the Editor, With the recent rains, high waves, and storms we want to thank our supervisor, Zach Friend’s staff, Santa Cruz Public Works, Green Waste, and the Aptos La Selva Fire Department and PG&E for providing training, sand, sand bags, and a storage container for the sand that is located outside the Aptos Chamber office. We also want to thank our neighbors, Seacliff Inn, Palo Alto Medical Foundation Aptos Office, and Resurrection Church for allowing the sand to be located on our street.

We are lucky to live in such a caring community.

We have had more than 530 residents and business stop by and get sand to be prepared for our El Nino Winter.

Thank you also to our local newspapers such as Aptos Life, and PG&E for alerting people to be prepared for this winter.

Together, we make a difference

Karen Hibble Aptos

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February 2016

LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel 3

Trust and transparency at heart of new policing

By TARMO HANNULA LIVE OAK — Welcoming the community into the fold of its policing policies and methods, the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office was the first law office in the nation to launch the 21st Century Policing recommendations on Jan. 21.

With its 20-member Sheriff’s task force facing a crowd of about 150 people from around the community, the meeting marked the initial step of brainstorming with the community on how law officials will uphold the Code of Ethics while working shoulder to shoulder, toe to toe, with the people they have been hired to protect.

Spurned by the White House’s 79 recommendations in 21st Century Policing, the launch came about following a spate of controversial, and often deadly, encounters with police and the community around the nation. Some of the incidents sparked riots and violence, sit-ins and blockades.

“This is ultimately about reinforcing our fundamental duty,” Undersheriff Jeremy Verinsky told the gathering.

Congresswoman Anna Eshoo, D-Palo Alto, said 21st Century Policing will not be successful if the community does not come together with the Sheriff’s Office.

“One goal is to increase trust through engagement and transparency with our law enforcement day to day and in the long term,” Eshoo said. “We are a nation of laws. Law and community have to meld to build trust. This entire effort was shaped by law enforcement experts.”

Sheriff Jim Hart told the audience, which included a 20-member community task force who will work side-by-side with the Sheriff’s task force, that in his 27 years in law enforcement he has never seen such a level of distrust emanating from communities around the nation.

Hart said now begins a series of meetings

between the 40-member task force, who, in the fall, will ultimately present their recommendations.

Hart said he wanted to see these major changes: • Shifting the police from warrior to guardian. “We’re not an occupying force,” he said.

• Re-embrace community policing.

• Ensure fair and impartial policing.

• Build community trust through community activities, especially with area youth.

• Appropriate use of technology while being mindful of community trust.

“I’m excited to watch this process,” Hart said.

Among other changes in the forecast, Hart said his deputies on patrol will soon wear body cameras that will record the Congresswoman Anna Eshoo praises the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office and the deputy’s performance out in the field.

Sgt. Roy Morales, a member of the task community for taking on 21st Century Policing. Photo by Tarmo Hannula force, said he liked the approach of the program in that staff was being asked for their direct feedback on how to run the office better.

“There are many Latinos on the task force, which is good because many Latinos are afraid to come forward as witnesses and we need their information,” he said.

Overall, the program will focus on six pillars: • Building trust and legitimacy.

• Policy and oversight that reflect community values.

• Technology and social media that aims to improve policing practices.

• Community policing and crime reduction that invites police to work with people in identifying problems.

• Training and education • Officer wellness and safety.

The Sheriff’s Office also launched a new website, www.21stcenturypolicing.us, that, among other things, outlines 79 federal Sheriff deputy Daniel Cruz engages with community members to brainstorm new ways for tenets that the office will ascribe to. the community to get involved with law enforcement. Photo by Tarmo Hannula

Bargains are his lot in life New store opens on Freedom Boulevard

By TODD GUILD WATSONVILLE — A month after he moved into a small store on Freedom Boulevard, the owner of a small store opened the doors Jan. 18 to large crowds of customers who scoured the aisles for bargains.

The store, called Lots of Stuff, is just that: a place to shop for a wide range of constantly changing merchandise.

Owner Steve Carothers’ model for the business is simple: purchase new, overstocked merchandise by the pallet, and offer it to his customers at reduced rates.

“It’s a benefit to the community because I can sell it at half the price of other stores,” he said.

This includes items ranging from shoes to kitchen gadgets to clothes to furniture.

Carothers already has three decades of retail experience under his belt. It was during a six-year stint with Goodwill that he was inspired to create Lots of Stuff.

“When I worked for Goodwill I saw that people were longing for quality goods at good prices,” he said.

But Carothers is quick to point out that the store is not a secondhand store, and that all his merchandise is new.

He buys overstocked goods as they become available, allowing for a constantly changing inventory, Carothers said.

“So that makes it unique,” he said.

••• Lots of Stuff is located at 1724 Freedom Blvd., where the Blockbuster video store used to be located. It is open from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Sunday.

For information, call 786-9334.

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February 2016

4 - LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel

CARRIE’S DREAM

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE

Friday Night Live receives grant Staff report

Pacific Arts Complex dancers Zoe Rindt (from left), Mia Trujillo, Mariska Goldstein, Santiago Vides and Scarlet Ibarra strike a pose during a rehearsal for the Dance Showcase in 2015. File photo by Tarmo Hannula

Dance showcase returns Staff report APTOS — The Second Annual Carrie’s Dream Dance Scholarship Showcase and Auction is set for Sunday, Feb. 21 at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. at the Aptos High School Performing Arts Center, 100 Mariner Way. Tickets are $20 each. Doors open 30 minutes before each show. For tickets and information visit: www.

CarriesDream.org Carrie’s Dream, a tribute to Carrie Dianda McCoid, gives more than 150 young dancers a chance to perform the audience, all while raising funds for local dance scholarships. The shows will feature ballet, lyrical, jazz and hip hop performed by dancers from Pacific Arts Complex “PAC,” the Aptos High School Dance Team, Agape Dance Academy of Aptos and Scotts Valley, Cabrillo College, Sammy’s Animation Dance Community from Hollister, and more.

Both shows will also have a silent and live auction with local art, gift baskets, gift certificates and more.

Last year’s first Carrie’s Dream Showcase raised more than $23,000 in scholarship funds were raised for aspiring local dancers.

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY — The County of Santa Cruz Alcohol and Drug Program has been awarded a grant to support Friday Night Live (FNL) youth leaders in the implementation of a variety of campaigns meant to directly combat underage drinking in their community.

The grant is provided through the California Friday Night Live Partnership (CFNLP), with funding from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

As a prerequisite for obtaining the funds, Lakeview Middle School, Youth N.O.W., and Youth Council FNL members participated in Roadwatch — an annual observational survey administered by the CFNLP with funding from the Allstate Foundation. For one hour on Oct. 13, youth participants observed a total of 456 incidents of distracted driving at intersections near schools in Watsonville, Scotts Valley and Aptos ranging from talking and texting on cellphones to eating, drinking, and personal grooming. One hundrednineteen sites throughout the state observed a total of 12,569 distracted driving offenses on that day.

“Youth respond to other youth much better than adult driven and delivered messages,” said Dr. Jim Kooler, CFNLP Administrator. “And by supporting them with the skills and opportunities to make positive changes in their communities, we will see results that matter.”

For information about the program, contact Brenda Armstrong, Alcohol and Drug Prevention Program Manager, at 454-5483 Brenda.Armstrong@ santacruzcounty.us.

A free sand bag station has been set up in front of the Aptos History Museum and Chamber of Commerce, 7605 Old Dominion Ct. # A, for citizens to prepare for upcoming storms and high surf. Photo by Tarmo Hannula

Sandbags available for residents

By ERIK CHALHOUB APTOS — As El Nino-driven rains pounded the area in January, a free sand bag station set up by GreenWaste in front of the Aptos History Museum and Chamber of Commerce was popular with local residents.

Chamber Co-Executive Director Karen Hibble said about 538 people grabbed their shovels and filled up bags of sand. She estimated the station has so far gone through 2,000 sandbags.

With the help of GreenWaste, Santa Cruz County Public Works, Aptos/La Selva Fire and Supervisor Zach Friend’s office, the station was quickly refilled with sand after it had run out.

“I want to thank the community so much for helping us keep people safe,” Hibble said. “We are really lucky to live in a community that cares.”

Residents have been taking the storm threat seriously, she added, noting a disaster preparedness workshop held in November at the Best Western Seacliff Inn was well-attended.

The station will continue to be set up at 7605 Old Dominion Court #A in Aptos until El Nino has passed.

Residents are asked to bring their own shovels to fill the bags.

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LAWN REPLACEMENT

LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel 5

LITTLE MERMAID

MEET THE AUTHOR

Meet the Author series continues Staff report

Workshop addresses drought-tolerant landscapes Staff report SANTA CRUZ — Learn how to transform your water-thirsty lawn to an attractive landscape featuring drought-tolerant trees, native grasses, perennials and shrubs. The California Native Grasslands Association (CNGA) is partnering with the California Department of Water Resources to present “California’s New Front Yard: Creating a Low-Water Landscape,” a workshop on how to design, install and maintain a low-water landscape.

The workshop, sponsored by the University of Santa Cruz Arboretum and the City of Santa Cruz, takes place on Thursday, Feb. 11, at the UCSC Arboretum, 1156 High St., from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

A fee of $30 ($25 for CNGA members) includes morning refreshments, lunch and professional quality workshop materials. The workshop is suitable for both residential and small ranch homeowners, as well as landscape and ranching professionals.

Advance registration is required. To register for the workshop, visit www.cnga.org or email admin@cnga. org.

The day’s activities are led by instructors who are experts in the fields of design, installation, and maintenance of low-water landscapes in residential and commercial settings. Speakers include Andrew Fulks, Assistant Director of UC Davis Arboretum; Martin Quigley, Director of Gardens and Grounds, UC Santa Cruz Arboretum; Brett Hall, California Native Plant Program Director, UC Santa Cruz Arboretum; Dakota Bertsch, Landscape Designer, Ecological Concerns, Inc.; and Jon Laslett, Senior Project Manager and Ecologist, Ecological Concerns, Inc.

David Schlaepfer plays Scuttle, Marlene Bruce as Ariel and Faith Bartlett as Flounder. Contributed photo

CYT Santa Cruz presents ‘The Little Mermaid’ Staff report APTOS — Christian Youth Theater Santa Cruz will present “The Little Mermaid” from Feb. 20-21 and Feb. 26-28.

The performance is based on the Disney tale of the young mermaid, Ariel, as she tries to win her Prince Eric in the world above the waves. The score includes Oscar-winning tunes such as “Kiss the Girl,” “Part of Your World” and “Under the Sea.” “The Little Mermaid” is the 16th production of CYT Santa Cruz. The cast is comprised of 85 youths, ages 8-18.

Performances take place at Cabrillo College’s Crocker Theater, 6500 Soquel Drive in Aptos. Showtimes are Feb. 20-21 at 3 p.m., Feb. 26 at 7 p.m., Feb. 27 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Feb. 28 at 3 p.m.

To purchase tickets, visit www.cytsantacruz.org.

SOQUEL — On Wednesday, Feb. 10 at 10:30 a.m., The torter Memorial Library will host Joyce Oroz at its 2016 Meet the Author Series.

Oroz is the author of seven mysteries. Her popular Josephine Stuart Mystery Series explores the county from Boulder Creek to Aromas and most parts in between.

Oroz lived in Soquel for 22 years, raised her children there and painted murals all over California. Currently, she lives in Aromas. Her priorities include writing fiction and orchestrating the painting of an occasional mural with her Aromas Hills Artisan friends.

She and her husband, Arthur (also an author), enjoy country living, visits from grandchildren and the work it takes to complete a book. Oroz has not only completed seven mysteries, but has painted the cover pictures for four of the books published by Cozy Cat Press. All seven books in the Josephine Stuart Mystery Series will be available for purchase at the library event.

The Meet the Author programs are informal coffee hours around the fireplace where local authors discuss their works, answer questions from the audience and autograph copies of their books. The programs are free and open to the public. They are scheduled for the second Wednesday of February, March and April at 10:30 a.m. Refreshments and coffee will be served with the Ugly Mug providing the coffee.

The library is located at 3050 Porter St. Limited parking is available behind the library. Enter from Soquel Drive into the Bagelry parking lot and drive through to the left.

For information, call the library at 475-3326 during library hours: Monday-Friday from 12-4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., or visit the library website at www.porterml.org.

Snowman Sculpting and Other Life Lessons Mom would say that Dad was always the “first kid out of the house” to build the winter snowman. My brother and I giggled about it; we knew at a young age that Dad was enthusiastic about all his works of art.

Dad was a painter. He made the most beautiful pictures and I wanted to grow up to be just like him.

One time Dad gave me a drawing he made of an elephant and encouraged me to color it.

He watched carefully as I tried to stay inside the lines. He put his hand on mine and said, “Sweetie, don’t be afraid to go outside the lines, your ideas are too big to be boxed in.”

Over the years I learned so much from him, and the gift of self-confidence tops the list.

Now he needs help with meals, housework, and transportation. Living by himself has got him down and I’ve grown too exhausted to care for my own household’s needs.

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February 2016

6 - LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel

Caroline’s

Continued from page 1

Caroline’s has “taken on a life of its own,” Licker said, with 75 regularly scheduled volunteers. That doesn’t take into account substitute volunteers and students, she added, noting that the youngest student volunteer is in the fourth grade and the oldest is a freshman in college.

The thrift shop recently launched a capital campaign to not only improve its existing facilities, but to expand its space as well. Currently, the store encompasses two buildings and three storage containers.

The main building itself needs a major overhaul, Licker said, with new flooring, wiring, a sink and more. Not only that, nine of the windows are leaking, and the parking lot itself is in dire need of being redone, she added.

But to do so, Licker estimates the

improvements will cost $1 million, and has started a campaign on the fundraising website Crowdrise (tinyurl.com/z5ozboh).

However, she is quick to note that none of the funds for the capital campaign will be taken from the shop’s charitable fund.

“We are not going to pull any money from the organizations we give money to,” Licker said. “That’s not why the volunteers came here to volunteer.”

The work will be done in three phases, one of which will replace the storage containers in the back with a new structure that will be used as storage. By freeing up space in the main building, Licker said the shop will be able to hold more community events such as arts and crafts projects and tutorials.

For information, visit www.carolinesnonprofitthriftshop.org or call 662-0327.

To donate to the capital campaign, visit tinyurl.com/z5ozboh.

The following organizations received donations from Caroline’s Non Profit Thrift Shop: • Children’s Hospice and Palliative Care Coalition: $25,000 • Hospice of Santa Cruz County: $25,000 • Jacob’s Heart: $25,000 • Special Parents Information Network: $25,000 • Hope’s Closet: $2,500 • Building Rhythms: $4,000 • Shared Adventures: $4,000 • Above The Line: $5,000 • Youth N.O.W.: $5,000 • Camp Kesem UCSC: $5,500 • Adaptive Yoga Project: $6,000 • Second Harvest Food Bank (Food For Kids Program): $7,000 • For Kids Monterey Bay: $8,000 • Nourishing Generations: $8,000 • Easter Seals Central Coast: $10,000 • Walnut Avenue Women’s Center: $10,000 • Big Brothers Big Sisters Santa Cruz: $10,000 • Survivor’s Healing Network: $10,000 • Teen Kitchen Project: $10,000 • Coastal Kids Home Health Care: $20,000 • CASA: $25,000

Caroline’s Non Profit Thrift Shop has been a fixture in Aptos since 2010. Photo by Tarmo Hannula

Christy Licker, founder of Caroline’s Non Profit Thrift Shop in Aptos, recently donated $250,000 to 21 area nonprofits. Photo by Tarmo Hannula

Business Showcase Attendees will also have the chance to win a Toyota Prius from a raffle, and sample food throughout the showcase.

Limited spaces to showcase are still available. To register for a booth or table at

Continued from page 1

the event, call the Aptos or Capitola/Soquel Chambers of Commerce at 688-1467 or 475-6522, or visit www.aptoschamber. com.

The main lobby of the Capitola Mall was transformed into showcase for local businesses and services in 2015. The business expo moves to the Seascape Golf Club in Aptos this year.

Photo by Tarmo Hannula

February 2016

History Corner

LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel 7 Continued from page 1

Drawing of planned pleasure pier and pavilion. Aptos History Museum collection

the cliffs. This winter however, the storms have returned and the big tides have uncovered stories from the past.

No major storms had occurred at Seacliff between 1916 and 1923 which is why the developers of Seacliff Park had such grand plans for the beach. In 1925, a large sign was posted on Seacliff beach which proclaimed the construction program of the Seacliff Company, in progress, included an esplanade, pleasure pier, a 2,000-foot seawall, bathing pavilion, a children’s sand garden, dining hall and dance pavilion, automobile parking space, and modern beach bungalettes for rent or lease.

Although the concrete seawall looked as substantial as the one that protects the houses below the gate at the end of Clubhouse Drive today, it lasted less than a year. The metal plates you sometimes see sticking out of the sand were the footings for the base of the original seawall.

Before the first seawall was even back filled, a storm in February of 1926 caused waves to wash over the wall causing serious damage. The builder stated that improvements to the repaired seawall would make a repetition of the recent troubles impossible. In February of 1927 the remainder of the seawall was destroyed and the beach facilities were heavily damaged.

The storm damage is what lead the Seacliff developers to purchase a surplus concrete oil tanker for use as an amusement center since there were not sufficient funds remaining to rebuild the damaged facilities and construct the pleasure pier and pavilion that had originally been envisioned. On Jan. 25 of 1930, the concrete ship, S.S. Palo Alto was towed into position and sunk onto the sandy bottom. A 630-foot pier was built out to the ship’s stern and she was refitted as a pleasure ship and opened Saturday, June 21, 1930 to a crowd of 3,000 people.

In 1931, five significant storms hit the coast. That year a new timber bulkhead was constructed closer to the cliff. A storm on Dec. 9th and 10 destroyed part of the bulkhead and on Dec. 26 more of the bulkhead was destroyed along with the concession building and bathing pavilion.

Mother Nature was also determined that the concrete ship was not going to last and in 1932 a storm cracked the ship in half.

Since 1927 there have been 11 major storms that have either damaged or destroyed seawalls and bulkheads in Seacliff and beyond. During 1983 and early 1984, the state questioned whether this continuous cycle of damage and repair at Seacliff State Beach was proper public policy. After looking at the alternatives the state determined that periodic repair of timber bulkheads was the most cost effective approach to providing public recreational access to the beach.

The stormy week of Jan. 17 last month was not particularly violent but the large swells, waves and high tides were sufficient to cause a new break in the back half of the concrete ship. The ship is now all askew with the bow pointing up to starboard and the stern sinking off to port.

Much of the information provided comes from two articles about Seacliff storm damage co-authored by Garry Griggs, Director, Institute of Marine Sciences at UCSC, which he graciously allowed me to reference.

It just so happens that we have amazing photographs of the different seawalls and the damage from the major storms.

We also have rare pictures of the early Seacliff development and the plans that never materialized. Please join me at the Rio Sands Hotel community room for our “Coffee, Tea and History” photo presentation on Saturday, Feb. 27 from 3:30 until 5 p.m. Reservations only please as space is limited, 688-1467. $15 donation

benefits the Aptos History Museum.

Time flies when you’re having fun.

May 15 from 3–5 p.m. we are having a 10th Birthday Bash for the museum. Save the date and call us if you would like an

invitation. More to come!

And finally, if you enjoy these stories please let Aptos Life publishers and advertisers know, thanks.

1926 seawall damage after storm showing the metal footings. Aptos History Museum collection

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First seawall in 1925. Aptos History Museum collection

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February 2016

LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel 9

An untold legacy Documentary tells story of theme park company

By ERIK CHALHOUB SANTA CRUZ — To the general public, Logger’s Revenge at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is just the “log ride,” where riders are guaranteed to disembark with their clothes dripping wet.

But for others, Logger’s Revenge is part of a storied past. Its creator, Mountain View-based Arrow Development, developed the modern-day “log flume,” an attraction that is now a staple at theme parks around the world.

Arrow revolutionized the theme park industry, not only through log flumes, but also by creating roller coasters with elements that are still emulated today.

However, its legacy is not widely known, nor has it been the subject of a documentary.

And so, the American Coaster Enthusiasts, with a team consisting of Robert Ingle, Nicholas Laschkewitsch, Kimberly Mix and Kris Rowberry, set out on what they call a “labor of love” to document the company and its widespread influence.

The result is the documentary film “The Legacy of Arrow Development,” which made its debut in a screening sponsored by the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk on Jan. 23 at the Montgomery Theater in San Jose.

“The story of Arrow is one that has never been told in full, and what better group than the American Coaster Enthusiasts is there to be the ones telling the story,” said Laschkewitsch, a La Selva Beach resident who serves as editor and director of the film. “They really started the whole theme park industry as we know it today.”

Ingle said the modern theme park would look very different today had Arrow not existed.

“Arrow single-handily revolutionized the theme park industry into what we

know it as today,” he said. “So getting the opportunity to tell their story is amazing.”

In the 1950s, Arrow created a number of attractions for the newly-built Disneyland in Anaheim, such as the Matterhorn Bobsleds, Autopia, Dumbo the Flying Elephant and more.

They also developed the first “corkscrew” style track for roller coasters, where riders are sent through a series of barrel rolls, among many other “firsts” for the industry.

Arrow Development later transitioned into Arrow Dynamics, but folded in late 2001.

The documentary team went through a number of challenges to make the project a reality. Fact-checking was one of them.

“We cover roughly 60 years to present the history of Arrow Development, so it was a challenge to ensure complete accuracy of information throughout the film,” Mix said. “Luckily, we had a lot of contributors who we were able to confirm or modify the facts or details about Arrow’s history that we had on file.”

Finding time to travel across the nation to film also took its toll on the team, who all live in Northern California.

“From making first contact with the locations, to lining up the travel itineraries — and then battling the weather when we arrived — it was quite a task to say the least,” Rowberry said. “The research on the film was the easy part.”

While it may be the most longest production they’ve set out to do, “The Legacy of Arrow” is not the first theme park-related documentary they’ve created.

“The Lost Parks of Northern California,” an online documentary series created

by Rowberry and Laschkewitsch, has featured a number of defunct parks that once populated the area, including Santa’s

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A brochure for Arrow Development. Contributed photo

Village in Scotts Valley. In 2015, the series won the award for “Best Community Access Television Series — Professional” at the CreaTIVe Awards in San Jose.

After the series took a hiatus during the filming of “The Legacy of Arrow,” the

team said they will look to bring it back.

••• For information about the American Coaster Enthusiasts, visit www.aceonline.org.

Break the Barriers

Continued from page 1

and mental abilities, performed for the first The gymnastic performance highlighted time at Aptos Junior High School. the skills and personalities of all involved, The group, first established in 1983, has with each performer having integral roles. traveled internationally with their traveling Members of the group worked together, team being made up of 20 people ages 10 rolled those in wheelchairs into position to 60. and supported one another.

“Our focus right now is school culture,” Afterwards, they hosted anti-bullying Aptos Junior High School Principal Rich acitivities, demonstrating how difficult Moran said. “The language is on inclusion it can be to perform while others are and they seemed like a really good group criticizing and judging you. to reinforce that.”

“What we see are differences,” Moran Break the Barriers, which featured Aptos said. “And we sort ourselves into groups High School alumn and homecoming using criteria. Sometimes all we focus king Brandon Gruber who also has Down on is differences and we think those are Syndrome, is a program committed to bad. Those differences are what make us inclusion. interesting. It is a source of strength.”

“What we found is true around the One seventh grade student, Andrea world is that parents pray the same: that Rodriguez, said her friends were really their child will be accepted and that their into the performance and that “it was really gifts are realized,” program founder Deby cool.”

Hergenrader said. “We are here not to But beyond that, she said she was amazed entertain, but we will. We want to break with what the performers could do. the barriers.”

“I noticed some of them didn’t have an Their success and diverse cast of arm or leg,” she said. “And they can do characters reflect what she says can happen things I can’t even do.” when you have all inclusive programs, something she said her sister with Down Syndrome was never offered.

“All people belong together,” Hergenrader said. “Watching them, we can see the potential of our children.”

Hergenrader said the group has traveled to every continent with their message, except for Antarctica, “and we are happy to let them stay down Break the Barriers have been performing since 1983 in every continent there.” on Earth accept Antarctica. Photo by Tarmo Hannula

February 2016

10 - LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel

Guest Columnist

Aptos real estate update — February 2016 Townhome and condo values increasing Because house prices have escalated so much, buyers are turning to townhomes and condos and are driving these values up as well. I represented buyers who purchased 7555 Sunset Way #4 for $329,000 in October 2013. In August 2015, the same size and shape unit #1 sold for $455,000 after being bid up from list price $439,000.

That’s a 38 percent increase in condo value in two years. In my own Aptos townhome complex, I represented buyers who just paid $727,000 for their unit; highest sales price before this sale was $650,000.

By RUTH BATES

Broker Associate and MBA

Happy New Year fellow Aptosians!

2015 real estate recap Home values increased significantly in Aptos in 2015. 330 Single Family Homes were sold at an average sales price of $782K (on homes sold below $1 million).

88 homes sold for over $1 million, 94 homes sold at $800K-$1M, 113 homes sold at $600K-$800K and even 33 homes sold below $600K. 59 townhomes (Avg. Sales Price $602K) and 31 condos (Avg. Sales Price $556K) were sold in 2015.

2016 real estate As of Jan. 21, there are only 24 Active listings in all of Aptos (13 houses, four townhomes, seven condos). This is really, really low inventory and it is totally a “Seller’s Market” right now. The slight interest rate increase did not impact the housing market in any significant way, there are buyers galore. The current stock market instability could impact the housing market this year (less cash buyers?).

Aptos Village breaks ground in 2016 The Aptos Village will offer 72 homes ranging from 1-bedroom lofts to 3 bedroom townhomes. The project is breaking ground shortly and will provide new more affordable home options for Aptos residents. Additionally, stop lights will be built at Trout Gulch/Soquel and Aptos Creek/Soquel and the historic apple barn will become a New Leaf. Phase I home offerings include 6 Cluster homes and 11 townhomes at Granite Way and 17 condos in BLG 3 adjacent to the Village Green, and 7 residential lofts in BLG 7.

Pre-sales will being shortly on this project.

An artist’s rendering shows the Village Green area of the Aptos Village project. Contributed

Aptos transportation — November ballot initiative The Regional Transportation commission (RTC) is bringing a 1/2-cent sales tax initiative to the November 2016 ballot to benefit all of Santa Cruz County.

The five investment categories are: • Highway 1 Corridors — 25 percent of funds – three auxiliary lane projects: 41st-Soquel, Bay/Porter-Park, State Park-Park plus two pedestrian overcrossings • Neighborhood Projects — 30 percent of funds — Local street/road maintenance and repairs, school traffic projects, operational improvements • Mobility Access — Elderly/Disabled/ Vete3rans Paratransit/Bus Service – 16 percent of funds • Active Transportation (aka Rail Trail) – 15 percent of funds • Rail Corridor – maintenance and repairs – 14 percent of funds

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Sadly, we say good-bye to the Aptos Theater where my daughter worked for many years and where I have enjoyed many a movie. Thanks for the memories!

“The only constant in life is change!”

And change my friends is something we are going to need/want to get used to here in Aptos. I am excited about most of the new changes (except losing the theater) and look forward to my continued enjoyment of paradise — aka Aptos!

There are many what-ifs in life: What if I lose my job? How will this affect my retirement outlook? What if I need long term care in the future? Will my assets be able to support me? What if I were to pass away prematurely? Will my family be taken care of? With all of these what-if scenarios, it’s important to have a plan in place to prepare for the unexpected.

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February 2016

LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel 11

Guest Columnist

Habits of financially successful people

By GARY E. CROXALL, CFP® and SOREN E. CROXALL, CFP® It’s 2016, and with a new year comes new resolutions to change some of your bad habits. According to a 2013 article by Forbes, more than 40 percent of Americans make New Year’s resolutions. However, just 8 percent succeed in their goals. Old habits are hard to break. However, below are some habits that people who are financially successful utilize well:

They have clear goals and a direction in mind • Being financially successful doesn’t mean you’re a multi-millionaire. It means you’re in control of your financial life. For some, their goal may be to make as much money as possible. For others, it could be to earn enough to maintain their current lifestyle. Other people may want to be able to retire early or buy a vacation home.

You should have these goals written down along with a tangible plan on how you plan to achieve them. You should refer back to your plan frequently and do status updates on how well you are progressing toward your goals.

They manage their time effectively • Financially successful people don’t procrastinate. They work methodically toward achieving their goals and prioritize their time accordingly.

They believe they make their own future • Financially successful people are selfstarters. They believe they make their own destiny and they act on it. They don’t wait and hope that something is going to fall into their lap. Financially successful people are constantly educating and

informing themselves of new technologies and information. They reinvent themselves and adapt their goals to an ever-changing environment.

They set a budget and stick to it • Financially successful people have a clear understanding of the money they are bringing in and where the money is going. They strive to live below their means and utilize debt wisely. While it’s easy to try and keep up with the Joneses, financially successful people are great at differentiating between short term wants and long term goals.

They surround themselves with people who support them • Financially successful people don’t surround themselves with people who are negative or hold a viewpoint that the world is always against them. They surround themselves with people who support their goals and achievements. They also surround themselves with people who will hold them accountable to make sure they are working hard to achieve their goals.

The New Year is a great time to review where you are financially today and think hard about where you want to be next New

Year’s Day and New Year’s Day five years from now. Some things happen that are out of our control, but much of what happens depends on the choices we make today.

The beginning of the year is a great time to decide what those choices are going to be.

Gary E. Croxall, CFP®

Soren E. Croxall, CFP® Croxall Capital Planning Securities and Advisory Services offered through National Planning Corporation (NPC), member FINRA/ SIPC, a Registered Investment Advisor. Consulting and Investment Management offered through Croxall Capital Planning (CCP), a Registered Investment Advisor. CCP and NPC are separate and unrelated companies.

NPC and CCP do not provide tax or legal advice. The information contained herein is for general education and is not intended as specific advice or a recommendation to any person or entity.

The opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of NPC.

Guest Columnist

Ask Nicole: Teaching healthy habits for life

By NICOLE M. YOUNG, MSW Like many people, I start each year determined to be healthier — eat healthy foods, exercise more, decrease my stress.

Sometimes my new habits stick, but many times I fall back into old patterns (sometimes by February). It’s hard to change old habits that feel familiar and easy.

But as my children get older, I’m becoming more aware of how my habits affect theirs.

When we have sweet treats in the house, they crave them. When we have healthy snacks or fruit for dessert, they survive just fine. When they see us exercising, they become interested in exercising. I guess it’s time to figure out how to make my healthy habits stick.

This monthly column provides tips for anyone who is helping raise children, based on the world-renowned Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, available to families in Santa Cruz County. If you have a question or idea for a future column, email me at triplep@first5scc.org.

Dear Nicole, My daughter’s doctor says she’s overweight for her age (she’s 8). I know it’s true, but she hates vegetables and loves soda and watching TV! Plus, my daughter is very confident and outgoing. I’m worried she’ll

become self-conscious if we put her on a diet or make her exercise. But I also don’t want her to get teased for being heavy or have health problems later on. Help!

Laurel Dear Laurel, It’s good that you’re considering your daughter’s physical and emotional health.

There’s a lot of shame, blame and guilt in our society about weight and body size.

Much of it is based on unrealistic ideas about what’s considered beautiful. It’s not only discouraging, but can contribute to low self-esteem, depression, social isolation and unhealthy behaviors such as eating disorders. You are right to want to preserve your daughter’s self-confidence! You are also right to want her to have good health now and in the future. Here are a few tips to try: Focus on teaching your daughter healthy habits that will last a lifetime. It may not seem fun to your daughter right now, but learning how to make healthy food choices and increase physical activity will benefit her for many years to come. Making healthier food choices doesn’t have to mean going on a diet or restricting access to food, though. It can be as simple as introducing one new healthy food and turning it into a fun, supportive teaching moment. Have

your daughter describe what the food looks, smells and tastes like. Talk about what food group it’s from and how it helps her body be strong and healthy. Similarly, increasing physical activity doesn’t have to mean starting a difficult or painful exercise program. It can be as simple as going for a walk together, parking farther away from a store, or having a dance party in your living room. The key is to start with changes that are simple, realistic and achievable.

Make small, gradual changes that the whole family can support. Children are more likely to develop new habits when the whole family is involved. Imagine how hard it would be for a child to watch everyone else in the family enjoy desserts and soda, but not be allowed to have any.

That’s a surefire way to start a rebellion!

Children may also be more willing to accept changes when they are made gradually. For example, introduce one new vegetable at a time instead of suddenly replacing your daughter’s favorite foods with several vegetables at once. Or if your daughter doesn’t like the idea of exercising, have her start by playing an active game for 15 minutes, then gradually work toward one hour of physical activity per day.

Be positive, persistent and consistent. It can be hard for parents and caregivers to teach children healthy habits, especially when we are tired or they are faced with

constant temptation. And yet children need to know how to accept limits, deal with disappointment and develop self-control.

These are skills they’ll need throughout life. Use positive parenting strategies such as spending quality time together, giving descriptive praise for healthy choices, setting a good example, and creating family rules to help all of you stay focused on the long-term goal of leading healthy lives.

Final Thoughts: Teaching children to make healthy choices takes time, patience and persistence, but it will improve their quality of life for years to come. Increase your chances of success by making small, gradual steps toward a healthier lifestyle as a family. Remember that over time, small changes can make a big difference!

••• Nicole Young is the mother of two children, ages 12 and 15, who also manages Santa Cruz County’s Triple P - 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. For more information on Triple P classes and oneon-one sessions for parents, visit triplep. first5scc.org, www.facebook.com/triplepscc or contact First 5 Santa Cruz County at 4652217 or triplep@first5scc.org.

February 2016

12 - LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel

FEBRUARY 2016

Johnson, 9 others named to inaugural class

By TONY NUNEZ Even in retirement Gene Johnson would not stop working.

A coach at the high school and community college level for 57 years, Johnson retired in 2011 only to set his sights on helping the administration start a Hall of Fame at Cabrillo College, where he coached football and softball for 43 years.

He can finally take a break.

On Jan. 23, Cabrillo College inducted its inaugural class of Hall of Famers at Seascape Resort in Aptos. The class of 10 is headlined by Super Bowlchampion brothers Obafemi and Brendon Ayanbadejo, women’s volleyball pioneer Lisa Fraser and legendary football coach

Joe Marvin.

Swimmer Mitzi Moss, coaches Bob Bugalski and Jane Ward and community contributors Robert and Paul Bailey will also be inducted.

And Johnson will join the class of heavy-hitters.

“It was a shock,” Johnson said. “I was shocked and surprised but I was really happy about it. To be inducted with the first class is something special.”

A Navy veteran who fought in World War II at 17, Johnson served as an assistant coach for the Seahawks football team for nearly a half a century after coaching the Watsonville High football program for 13 years.

He was an assistant coach for five

head coaches, including Marvin, and spent a majority of his time working with defensive backs.

He coached future NFL defensive backs Reggie Stephens, Dwight Lowery and Watsonville High alum Sherman Cocroft, who credits Johnson for his success after convincing him to move from receiver to cornerback. He led the nation in interceptions in his two seasons at Cabrillo and starred at San Jose State before carving out a four-year NFL career.

“He was the guy that taught me that if I applied myself and worked hard that I can accomplish everything I want,” Cocroft said, holding back tears. “He pushed me and guided me through football. I can’t really describe the impact he had on me.

It was huge.”

Now Cocroft hosts football camps, which are dubbed 5-Start Football Camp, up and down California.

One of his mottos for the camps is “understand the game.”

“He taught me the game,” Cocroft said.

“When I went into the NFL I had to play all five spots in my career and I don’t know if I could’ve done it without that. I wasn’t the biggest or the fastest or the strongest. I just knew the game.”

He also helped rebuild Cabrillo’s softball program by stepping in as the head coach in 2003.

In his first year as the lead man, the Seahawks had only five players show to the team’s initial meeting. Johnson sent out those

five to the school’s campus to recruit.

Six more showed the next day and Cabrillo went on to notch a winning record that season.

“He kept it from dying,” said Cabrillo College Athletic Director Dale Murray. “He came in when we were having a hard time finding someone and he helped rebuild it.”

In his nine seasons he produced multiple All-Conference players and a pair of AllState selections before handing over the program to Kristy Rosinger, who was on the team during Johnson’s initial season, in 2011.

“We were proud of the fact that we were able to get that started,” Johnson said. “Get it going back in the right direction.”

Johnson was inducted into the California Community College Sports Hall of Fame in 2011. Jackie Robinson, John Madden and Bill Walsh, among others, are also enshrined with the local.

“In some ways this is a greater thrill because you’re being voted in by people from around the area,” he said. “People that know you.”

“I’m proud to be associated with those guys,” he added.

The portion of the ceremony will honor Cabrillo’s first football coach, Larry Simmering, and the members of the 1959-60 team.

el

Ari

Gene Johnson talks to the athletes at a 5-Star Football Camp in 2014 at Cabrillo College in Aptos. File photo

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February 2016

LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel 13

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14 - LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel

February 2016

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February 2016

LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel 15

Aptos Cinemas closes

Operating since 1970

By ERIK CHALHOUB

APTOS — After 45 years in operation, Aptos Cinemas went dark for the final time Jan. 26.

A letter posted to the front door of the closed theater informed patrons that owner Landmark Theatres was “unable to come to terms” for a lease with Terramar Retail Centers, which owns the Rancho del Mar Shopping Center.

Landmark Publicity Director Laine Kaplowitz said there are no plans to open another theater in Aptos at this time, and the fate of the former theater’s spot is unknown.

Kaplowitz directed patrons to visit Landmark’s other Santa Cruz locations, Nickelodeon Theatre and Del Mar Theatre, adding, “we will continue to feature great films and provide superior customer service to the Santa Cruz community.”

Aptos Cinemas opened in 1970. In December 2013, it received a $250,000 upgrade that saw a reduction in seats and all-digital projectors allowing for 3D movies.

Its final showings were “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” and “The Revenant.”

Aptos Chamber of Commerce CoExecutive Director Karen Hibble called the After a $250,000 upgrade in 2013, Aptos Cinema is now closed. Photo by Tarmo Hannula closure “a huge loss for our community,” adding that many residents are “very unhappy” about the decision. representative of the motion picture “This is just a terrible blow to our industry today, having just finished more residents and to the businesses around the than $11 billion in the box office. movie theater,” she said. “People loved “I think it is pretty amazing that it lasted going to the movies; it’s something people all this time,” Kaplowitz said of Aptos are able to do at whatever age.”

Cinemas. “Most viable theatres today were Kaplowitz said the closure isn’t built in this millennium.”

Pacific Collegiate School accepting lottery applications Staff report Pacific Collegiate School is accepting lottery applications in grades 7-12 for the 2016-2017 school year.

Complete the online application by March 7 and attend one of the following information meetings if you have not done so in the last two years: • Saturday, Feb. 20, from 9-11 a.m., 3004 Mission St., Santa Cruz • Tuesday, Feb. 23, from 6:30-8:30 p.m., Cabrillo Watsonville Center, 318 Union St., Watsonville, Room A130.

• Thursday, Feb. 25 from 6:30-8:30 p.m., at Simpkins Family Swim Center,

979 17th Ave. • Thursday, March 3, from 6:30-8:30 p.m., PCS, 3004 Mission St. Students are encouraged to attend with a parent. Visit pacificcollegiate. com and click on the Admissions tab for further information and to RSVP to an info meeting.

Interested 11th-12th grade students are encouraged to apply and set up a meeting with a college counselor.

A worker loads up a hauling truck with movie theater gear as Aptos Cinemas is broken down Jan. 28 in the Rancho del Mar Shopping Center. Photo by Tarmo Hannula

Fine Draperies, Custom Bedding and Furniture, Custom Area Rugs, Upholstery, Slip Covers, Shutters, Blinds & More

(831) 688-4311 www.SandyJohnsonInteriors.com

Thank you Santa Cruz County for an amazing, miracle-ďŹ lled 27 seasons!

It’s impossible to articulate the gratitude and the significance a single teddy bear or puzzle can bring, both to the child receiving and the family caught in emotional or economic hardship. If one gift can have such an impact, then imagine the efforts of the community, by providing thousands of toys, books, bikes‌.what a difference we have made collectively!

Program Sponsors

B a

February 2016

LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel 17

Book gives back to animals, families

By ERIK CHALHOUB SOQUEL — Constance Chandlee has combined her love of dogs and art to release her first book, “The Dogs’ Path of Life.”

The books consists of Chandlee’s watercolor dog art pieces along with words of wisdom meant for the entire family.

“The book teaches children important life lessons while providing inspiring reminders for adults on topics such as self-love, loving others, respect, gratitude, friendship, health, exercise and interacting with the world,” the Soquel resident said. “’The Dogs’ Path of Life’” is a delightful book that offers the opportunity for dialogue between adults and children to encourage a child’s growth.”

For the past 11 years, Chandlee has been involved animal nonprofit organizations. She created and managed the Friends of the Watsonville Animal Shelter spay/neuter program for seven years, and is currently involved with the Santa Cruz SPCA by raising funds through her original watercolor dog art, as well as donating 50 percent of her book’s profits to the organization.

Chandlee said she hopes to work with the Monterey SPCA and other animal and children’s nonprofit organizations this year.

For information, visit www.thedogspathoflife. com.

We are a learning community

Mount Madonna School

Open House

| February 20, 11:00am

featuring Hands-on Science and Conversation Café RSVP 408-847-2717 MountMadonnaSchool.org Pre/K - 12th grade | CAIS & WASC accredited | Nonsectarian | Bus Transportation

February 2016

18 - LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel

APTOS

SOQUEL

CAPITOLA

February Public Meetings All meetings take place at Capitola City Hall 420 Capitola Ave.

Feb. 2

Museum Board 5:30 p.m.

Soquel Creek Water Board, 6 p.m.

Feb. 4

Planning Commission 7 p.m.

Feb. 9

Art & Cultural Commission 6:30 p.m.

Feb. 10

Architectural & Site Review, 3:30 p.m.

Feb. 11

City Council, 7 p.m.

Feb. 16

Library Advisory Committee, 3:30 p.m.

Ongoing

Feb. 6

Feb. 11

Aptos Noon Toastmasters

UnChained fundraiser

Breakfast meeting

A Mardi Gras-themed gala fundraiser for UnChained will be held from 6-9 p.m. at Bargetto Winery, 3535 N. Main St. in Soquel. UnChained is an organization that teaches youth to train shelter dogs. The event will feature food, wine, and live music. A raffle and silent auction will be taking place throughout the evening. For information and tickets, visit www.livingunchained.org or call 818-8738.

The Aptos Chamber of Commerce will hold its monthly breakfast meeting from 7:30-9 a.m. at the Best Western Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion Court. The guest speaker will be Frank Zwart, campus architect and associate vice chancellor of UCSC. Admission is $20 for chamber members, $25 for non-members. For reservations, call 688-1467.

Feb. 17

Feb. 20

Feb. 21

Wonderland Toys ribbon cutting

Monet Salon ribbon cutting

Carrie’s Dream Dance Showcase

The Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony for Wonderland Toys & Classroom Resources, 4101 Soquel Drive, Suite B2 in Soquel, from 4-5 p.m.

The Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony for Monet Salon, 312 Capitola Ave., Suite C in Capitola, from 4-6 p.m.

The Second Annual Carrie’s Dream Dance Scholarship Showcase and Auction will take place at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. at the Aptos High School Performing Arts Center.

Tickets are $20 each. Doors open 30 minutes before each show. For tickets and information, visit www.

CarriesDream.org.

Feb. 24

Feb. 27

Business Showcase

History presentation

The Aptos and Capitola-Soquel Chambers of Commerce annual Business Showcase will be held from 4-7 p.m. at Seascape Golf Glub in Aptos

“The Storms and Seawalls of Seacliff Beach” will be held at the Rio Sands Hotel Community Room, 116 Aptos Beach Drive, from 3:30-5 p.m. Presented by John Hibble, the event will feature rare pictures of early Seacliff development. A $15 donation benefits the Aptos History Museum. For reservations, call 6881467.

Aptos Noon Toastmasters will be held every Wednesday at 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at Rio Sands Hotel, 116 Aptos Beach Drive. A group of people at all levels of experience from beginners to more advanced to help you discover your voice and share it effectively. Everyone is welcome.

For more information visit Facebook. com/AptosNoonToastmasters or call 236-1171.

APTOS

SOQUEL

CAPITOLA

Soquel Creek Water Board, 6 p.m.

Feb. 24

Commission on the Environment Workshop, 6 p.m.

Feb. 25

City Council, 7 p.m.

Santa Cruz County Supervisor Zach Friend (left) was the guest speaker at the Aptos Chamber of Commerce’s breakfast meeting in January.

The next meeting will be held on Feb. 11. Photo by Bek Phillips

February 2016

LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel 19

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Offer expires 2/29/16. Must present coupon at time of purchase.

Celebrating 21 Years!

Watsonville’s Independent Bookstore

• • • •

new/used books used audio books 1 minute off hwy 1 special orders -no charge!

Thank You For Voting us Best In The Pajaro Valley

831.722.3522 500 AUTO CENTER DR., WATSONVILLE 95076 WWW.WATSONVILLEGM.COM

Serving Santa Cruz County since 1974

THUNDERBIRD REAL ESTATE

831-475-8400 2601-41ST Avenue, Suite A, Soquel, 95073 www.thunderbird.com

Host your next event at one of our facilities!

City of Watsonville Parks and Community Service Department 831-768-3240

www.watsonvillerec.com • Office Hours: M-Fri 9am-4pm

Visit our showroom:

Get Pre-Approved Today!

Cindi Robinson Home Lending Officer 831-440-6222 cindi.robinson@citi.com NMLS# 728087

© 2015 Citibank, N. A. Equal Housing Lender, Member FDIC. NMLS# 412915. Citi, Citibank, Arc Design and Citi with Arc Design are registered service marks of Citigroup Inc.

2800 Daubenbiss Ave. Soquel, CA (831) 476-8780

Monday - Friday 9am-5pm Saturday 10am-3pm

After hours appointments welcome!

Visit us at

www.interiorvision.biz

2825 PORTER STREET SOQUEL, CA

(831) 713-6751