LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola & Soquel

JANUARY 2018 EVERYTHING APTOS, CAPITOLA & SOQUEL Vol. 6 No. 5

APTOS

SOQUEL

Sports

Basketball preview

Teachers, school district at impasse

pg. 12

pg. 2

CAPITOLA Photo by Tarmo HANNULA

Morrison Giffen of North Carolina takes advantage of the high surf at Pleasure Point in Capitola.

HISTORY CORNER

United Way gets new leader

By John Hibble Call: 688-1467

By TODD GUILD

Visit us online: aptoshistory.org

CAPITOLA — New United Way of Santa Cruz County Executive Director Keisha Frost was a fifthgrader when the local United Way brought in Boy and Girl Scout programs to her community.

The organization’s efforts proved to be a pivotal moment in her life.

“I had a safe space and caring adults every day of school,” she said.

Visit the museum: 7605-B Old Dominion Court Aptos, CA

Black Panthers in Aptos

By TODD GUILD APTOS — The Cabrillo College Governing Board on Dec. 4 announced that Matthew Wetstein will be the college’s next president.

The college held a community forum on Nov. 29 in which college officials and community members interviewed four candidates hoping to fill the seat when President Laurel Jones retires at the end of the year.

Please turn to Page 6

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The board met in closed session on Dec. 4 before the 6 p.m. public meeting in the Sesnon House to discuss the presidency.

In coming to Cabrillo, Wetstein leaves a position as Assistant Superintendent/Vice President of Instruction and Planning at San Joaquin Delta College in Stockton.

Before that, he served as Interim Dean of the San Joaquin Delta Please turn to Page 6

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Cabrillo College names new president

The late 1960s and 1970s were a tumultuous time in America. The Vietnam War, serial killers, Civil Rights marches and the Black Power Movement were plastered across the nightly television news. Aptos was to get our own, very up-close-and-personal incident with the Black Power movement.

World War II attracted African Americans from the South to work in Bay Area shipyards. After the war those jobs mostly disappeared. Oakland had 121,000 Black Americans in 1966 when Huey Newton and Bobby Seale founded the militant Black Panther Party. The Panthers charged the police with brutality and disrespect for blacks, so they set up armed patrols. It was a much more aggressive

• 1 minute off hwy 1

When United Way helped establish a track-and-field program at Frost’s school, she found her passion. She was named the third-fastest hurdler in the state of California in high school, a career that peaked when she went to the 1996 Olympic Games.

“I’ve dedicated my professional life to paying it forward,” she said.

“I was there because United Way

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PAJARO VALLEY

Chamber update ...............2 Briefs ...............................4-5 Guest columns ..................11 Calendar ...........................14 PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID WATSONVILLE, CA PERMIT NO. 23 ******ECRWSSEDDM****** POSTAL CUSTOMER APTOS, CA 95003 CAPITOLA. CA 95010

JANUARY 2018

2 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel

Around Aptos CHAMBER

OF

COMMERCE

By KAREN HIBBLE

JANUARY 2018

APTOS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Please join us for a healthy start to the New Year at our annual Health and Wellness Fair on Jan. 21 at Kaiser Permanente Arena. We are joining with the Santa Cruz Warriors to get Santa Cruz County back in shape after the holidays.

Join us and learn what you can do, and how many options you have, to make sure you are ready to meet 2018 in great health and fitness.

We are happy to bid 2017 goodbye with

all the natural disasters that have occurred.

We know that you are prepared for 2018 with an emergency pack, flashlights, and supplies for at least three days in case of any disasters that might hit our area. If not … Please get prepared.

We have sand and sand bags at the Chamber office … bring your own shovel.

Thanks to Best Western Seacliff Inn, PAMF of Aptos and Resurrection Church for sharing our street with the sand bin so that you can be prepared for floods in your neighborhoods.

Remember to thank them the next time you go to any of those locations. The sand is provided by Santa Cruz County Public Works and the bin is a gift from Green Waste.

The tree lighting was a tremendous success. We had Crowds gathered in Aptos Village during the annual tree about 800 residents lighting ceremony on Dec. 2. Contributed photo

attend. Santa was especially popular this year with the young and old. Again, thanks to all who came and to those who made it possible including Aegis of Aptos, Manuel’s Mexican Restaurant, Bay Federal, Green Waste, Best Western Seacliff Inn, Twin Lakes Youth Choir, Soquel High Jazz Band, and Sam Nigh and his band. Also, Ace Portable Services, Lewis Tree Service, John, Taylor and Robin Fuchs, Starbucks, and Coastline Electric. Special thanks to Aptos/La Selva Fire, California Highway Patrol, and the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Department for ensuring our safety and delivering Santa to the 50-foot tree.

We live in paradise and we are so lucky to share it with each other. Please make a resolution to not text and drive. We are experiencing too many accidents on our crowded roads and we all need to take the pledge.

Stay safe.

••• Karen Hibble is the co-executive director of the Aptos Chamber of Commerce.

Transportation commission narrows corridor study Staff report SANTA CRUZ COUNTY — The Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission narrowed down a list of projects to study that are meant to improve traffic on three major routes in the county.

On Dec. 7, the commission cut two scenarios from a list of six that describes investments that could be made on three parallel routes in the county: Highway 1, Soquel Avenue/Drive and Freedom Boulevard, and the Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line.

The scenarios include a trail only on the rail line, a rail with trail, a bus rapid transit with trail, and a rail with trail including freight.

A “no build” scenario is also listed on the study.

The RTC is expected to select a final scenario in December 2018, and then work on finding funding to either implement projects or evaluate them further.

For information, visit www.sccrtc.org/ucs.

Teachers, school district at impasse

By TODD GUILD

APTOS

SOQUEL

CAPITOLA

Publisher - Jeanie Johnson Editor - Erik Chalhoub Editorial Todd Guild, Johanna Miller, Tony Nuñez, Tarmo Hannula Photography - Tarmo Hannula Advertising Sales Tina Chavez, Jazmine Ancira, Mark Pezzini, Mike Lyon Production - Daryl Nelson 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 1894.

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WATSONVILLE — More than 100 teachers gathered in Watsonville Plaza on Dec. 15 for a rally that capped a week of actions meant to draw attention to ongoing contract negotiations between them and Pajaro Valley Unified School District.

The teachers on Dec. 11 declared an impasse in negotiations for the 2016-17 school year, after the district rejected the latest offer by the Pajaro Valley Federation of Teachers.

Specifically, PVFT is asking for an ongoing $4,408 salary increase, which would be retroactive to the 2016-17 school year. The union is also asking for an 8 percent increase for early childhood and adult education teachers, also retroactive to last year.

PVUSD has offered a 2 percent raise for teachers, which would be possible by modifying teacher health benefits.

Specifically, by raising copays for doctor visits from $10 to $20, and by switching to generic prescription drugs.

That raise would become effective only upon ratification.

The district has also offered all teachers a one-time payment of $3,200.

In addition, the district’s offer includes a 6 percent increase for both Early Childhood Education teachers and Adult Education teachers. The offer also includes a roving teacher stipend, and places nurses on the same salary schedule as psychologists.

The district has repeatedly insisted that the $4,408 raise is not possible.

PVUSD Superintendent Michelle Rodriguez said it would immediately cost $12 million, and would put the district in the red within three years.

In fact, giving the raise only to teachers would cost around $7 million.

But because the district agreed to a “me too” clause for its classified workers represented by California School Employees Association, the total would nearly double when applied to them.

The $3,200 offer, Rodriguez said, would cost $10 million, which is 20 percent of the district’s ending fund balance.

Those numbers have been corroborated by former Chief Business Teachers in the Pajaro Valley Unified School Officer Melody Canady District stage a noisy rally atop the Freedom and current Interim CBO Boulevard overpass in Aptos on Dec. 14. Photo Ron Forston, Rodriguez by Tarmo Hannula said.

The district’s numbers of California, which among other things have also been approved by the Santa conducts fiscal reviews for school Cruz County Office of Education and districts, Rodriguez said.

by WestEd, an independent educational PVFT has not responded to a district research company. In addition, they request to bring in its own financial have been reviewed by School Services review company, Rodriguez said.

“We have said to the union and we say to everyone, ‘help us find in the budget where we can afford it,’” Rodriguez said. “Nobody has been able to show me how they can afford what they are requesting.”

The teachers’ union, meanwhile, has said that the district historically understates its ending fund balance, and then clings to its reserves instead of offering them as raises to teachers.

PVFT has also accused the district of skewing its budgetary priorities.

Most recently, the PVUSD Board of Trustees approved hiring a public information officer, who will make about $100,000 per year.

“A budget is a set of priorities,” PVFT chief negotiator Sarah Henne said. “If they were serious Continued on next page

JANUARY 2018

LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 3

Aptos community celebrates tree lighting Photos by Erik CHALHOUB

Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Deputy Robert McClure (right) reunites Dave Casper with his stolen decorations. Contributed photo

Stolen Aptos decorations found in Watsonville Staff report APTOS — Christmas came early for an Aptos couple, as they were reunited this weekend with their decorations that had been stolen on Nov. 25 at their house.

Last Christmas, Stephanie and Dave Casper created a set of decorations to cover a dark stone wall near their house on Valencia Road: 12 large discs, each around 25 inches wide, depicted the lyrics of the popular carol “The Twelve Days of Christmas.”

On Nov. 25, nine of the 12 decorations were stolen in the first 24 hours they were installed.

The Caspers reached out to local media

Teachers

outlets about the theft. According to the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office, a citizen who saw a newscast about the incident spotted the decorations at a house on East Lake Avenue in Watsonville.

The SCSO reunited the Caspers with their decorations.

In a post online, the Caspers wrote that one disc, “7 Swans-a-Swimming,” is still outstanding.

“Thank you to all the community for their part in this wonderful Christmas tale with us,” they wrote. “It takes a village.

It’s so nice when the good in people wins out.”

Multiple suspects have been identified and the investigation is ongoing, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

Santa Claus greets Tricia and Oliver Potts of Watsonville (center) and others Dec. 2 during the Aptos Holiday Craft Fair and Tree Lighting in Aptos Village. The evening included dancing, music, crafts and a visit from Santa Claus, who arrived to the event in an Aptos/La Selva fire truck. The event has its roots in the Aptos community for nearly 30 years, when a scraggly 9-foot redwood tree was discovered near the intersection of Aptos Creek Road and Soquel Drive. It has been decorated every year since, and now stands 50 feet tall. “With the community, the tree has grown,” said Aptos Chamber of Commerce co-Executive Director Karen Hibble. “Every year it gets better and better.”

The Soquel High School Jazz Band plays a variety of festive tunes.

Continued from page 2

about working with teachers they wouldn’t be adding positions like that.”

Sherri Osterland, who teaches sixthgrade English and social studies at Pajaro Middle School, said she was one of nine new teachers when she started last year. This year, she said, eight new ones started.

She attributed the high turnover to low teacher pay, which she said has forced her to cut corners in her own life. This includes taking a second job for three nights a week.

This, she said, leaves her exhausted.

“I think everything would be better if I could focus on my job,” she said.

Mintie White first-grade teacher Lillian

Berla said that teachers have accepted measures such as cuts and furloughs during financially lean years. But the district currently has a surplus, she said.

“Right now there is no reason to take cuts,” she said. “The district should show us support. We teach the kids every day, and we deserve better.”

Watsonville High School math teacher Pablo Barrick said that teachers serve many roles in their jobs, including counselors, facilitators and court reporters.

“This is about the students,” he said of the rally. “The most efficient way to get money to the kids is through the teachers, because they are at the front.”

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JANUARY 2018

4 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel

8 TENS @ EIGHT

ICE SKATING

REMOVING NEGATIVITY

Lecture series focuses on removing symptoms of stress Staff report

“Janis Gives Comfort” stars Marty Lee Jones and Morgan Elinor Peters. Photo by Jana Marcus

Short play festival is long-running Staff report SANTA CRUZ — Santa Cruz County Actors’ Theatre will present the 23rd Annual 8 Tens @ Eight Short Play Festival, Jan. 5 through Feb. 4 at the Center Stage Theater, 1001 Center St. in downtown Santa Cruz.

The annual 10-minute play festival will feature 16 award-winning plays from the Actors’ Theatre’s international play-writing contest, showing in repertoire over the five-week festival.

Every summer, Actors’ Theatre holds an international playwriting contest, judged by a select group of local writers and directors. The winning plays are then produced into full productions for the January festival.

This year’s plays will be presented as an “A” and “B” night, eight 10-minute plays on each night, in rotation. A special $45 two-night package is available to see any “A” and “B” night showing throughout the run of the Festival.

Performances are Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m., with Saturday and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m.

For a schedule and tickets, visit www.sccat.org.

A worker prepares the surface of a temporary “ice” skating rink on the Esplanade in Capitola.

Photo by Tarmo Hannula

Ice skating rink opens in Capitola Staff report CAPITOLA — iSkate Capitola, at Esplanade Park beside the beach, opened Dec. 15.

The ice skating rink will be open through Jan. 7 with three sessions daily: 10 a.m. to noon, 2-4 p.m., and 6-8 p.m.

Admission is $10. Skate rentals are $5, or bring your own.

Parking is free through Dec. 25.

Online ticket sales are limited. Same-day tickets are available at the ice rink ticket booth beginning at 9:45 a.m.

For information, visit capitolavillage.com/iceskating-capitola.

WATSONVILLE — A free nine-week seminar is being offered to help remove negative symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression.

A free introductory meeting will take place Jan. 14 at 2 p.m. at 700 South Green Valley Road in Watsonville. This orientation meeting will be repeated on Jan. 17 at 6:30 p.m.

The “Removing Negativity” seminar is based on an educational model. Using documented statistics and practices including nutritional foods to support the brain and natural lifestyle strategies.

This program is not designed to take the place of the primary physician or other medical clinicians.

All staff are unpaid volunteers.

The free weekly lecture series will follow the orientation meetings. Topics include: • Nutrition and the Brain • How to Improve Brain Function • Increase Energy and Develop Healthy Sleep Habits • Identifying the Causes of Depression • Living with Stress without Distress • Maximize IQ in Children and Boost Concentration • Preparing to Quit! Overcoming Harmful & Unwanted Habits • Lifestyle Prescription for Eliminating Stress, Anxiety & Depression • Living Above Loss and Growing through Grief • Positive Lifestyle Choices and Improved Physical Performance • How Thinking Can Defeat Anxiety & Depression The lecture series takes place at theHealth Education Center, Watsonville SDA Church, 700 South Green Valley Road.

For information, contact Trish at 325-7993 or email RemovingNegativity@yahoo.com.

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JANUARY 2018

LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 5

SHAKESPEARE CLUB

LA SELVA PARK

Shakespeare Club to examine ‘Antony and Cleopatra’

La Selva Park gets make-over

SANTA CRUZ SHAKESPEARE

Work moves ahead on a large project that includes a community garden (left) in La Selva Beach at Triangle Park. A huge planter bed, walkways and defining bending boards are part of the project. Photo by Tarmo Hannula

Staff report APTOS — The Saturday Shakespeare Club begins a five-week examination of “Antony and Cleopatra” on Jan. 13 in Christ Lutheran Church, 10707 Soquel Drive in Aptos.

Each session starts at 10 a.m. with a lecture and lasts about an hour, including a brief discussion by those attending. During the following hour, selected club members read aloud the portion of the play that was that day’s focus.

UCSC Emeritus Professor Michael Warren, a noted authority on Shakespeare, will start the exploration into the play’s characters and language on the first Saturday.

On Jan. 20, Maria Frangos, dramaturg for Santa Cruz Shakespeare, will give her thoughts on the play as well as discuss the role of dramaturg in productions.

The following Saturday, Jan. 27, a recorded DVD lecture by Peter Saccio, professor of Shakespearean Studies at Dartmouth College, will examine change in “Antony in Cleopatra.”

Sean Keilen, associate professor of literature at UCSC and director of the school’s Shakespeare Workshop, will be speaker on Feb. 3. And on Feb. 10, the group will hold a potluck and watch a film of “Antony and Cleopatra,” featuring Janet Suzeman and Richard Johnson in the title roles and featuring Patrick Stewart, Ben Kingsley and Tim Pigott-Smith.

All gatherings are at the church and open to the public. A voluntary $10 fee is suggested for the whole series or $2 per session to help pay rental and for small stipends to scholarships or groups of the speakers’ choosing.

For information, call 462-5767 or email saturdayshakespeare@gmail.com.

Mike Ryan (left) as the venue announcer looks on the talents of Mr. Memory played by Allen Gilmore during Santa Cruz Shakespeare’s 2017 production of “The 39 Steps.” The theater company recently announced its 2018 slate of performances. Photo by Jana Marcus

Santa Cruz Shakespeare announces 2018 season A sweeping walkway is part of the project.

Photo by Tarmo Hannula

Staff report SANTA CRUZ — Santa Cruz Shakespeare announced its 2018 summer season recently, with repertory performances beginning July 10 and running through Sept. 2 at the Audrey Stanley Grove in DeLaveaga Park.

“Our 2018 lineup is about the consequences of trying to control love,” said Artistic Director Mike Ryan. “The results of this control play out tragically, hilariously, and even sexually, but always with unexpected results. It is a season in which women refuse to be defined by the men around them or to play by their rules.”

Santa Cruz Shakespeare will once again offer a “Free Youth Ticket” to one of its productions, a program initiated in 2015 to encourage the introduction of Shakespeare to the next generation.

This year, those 18 and under accompanied by a paying adult will receive a free groundling ticket to “Love’s Labour’s Lost.”

What a Wonderful World My mom has always been an optimist. She sees hope when others just see rain.

For as long as I can remember, each fall, when temperatures cooled and the autumn rains rolled in over our pasture, she pointed out a symbol of that hope. We would wait, and when the sun broke just the right way, it would emerge. A rainbow!

I cling to those now. Rainbows. Because they are harder for her to point out.

Over the course of my mom’s life, severe arthritis and a weak heart now make bending and reaching painful. Cooking and laundry are impossible without help.

My dad and I have tried home care services and worked shifts ourselves, but Dad is exhausted and they’re becoming housebound. I think it’s time for a change.

If an older parent needs daily assistance, maybe they’re not independent anymore.

Consider Áegis Living for professional help. We are the trusted, local senior care provider, specializing in assisted living and memory care. We offer the finest care, cuisine, social activities and comfortable warm home surroundings with committed staff. Come in for a tour and lunch with your parent. Let them experience our community filled with new friends, and new hope.

Please call our community and learn how we can help you take the break you need.

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JANUARY 2018

6 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel

History Corner

Continued from page 1

form of protest than taking a knee at football games. In 1967, Huey Newton was convicted of killing a policeman who stopped his car. Huey appealed his conviction and was later acquitted.

In the spring of 1973, Huey Newton transferred as a student to the University of California, Santa Cruz, commuting from Oakland. The following year, Newton was charged with murdering a prostitute and also pistol-whipping his tailor. When he was released on bail, he skipped to Cuba, where he lived for three years before returning to face the charges.

Fast forward to Santa Cruz. While out on bail, Huey Newton continued his education at UCSC. On March 9, 1978, Huey’s bodyguard was arrested for threatening a cocktail waitress who refused to serve him a drink. The bodyguard, Robert Joe Heard, stood seven feet tall and weighed 300 pounds. He pleaded no contest.

And now for our Aptos story. Two months later, on the afternoon of May 11, 1978, Huey, his bodyguard and William Henry Moore, decided to wet-their-whistles at the Mediterranean bar in Seacliff. William Moore had been an instructor at Cabrillo College and later, was with the History of Consciousness program at UCSC. According to the newspaper, Kenny Hall of Aptos, said that he saw Newton and his bodyguard at the table of his best friend, Michael Johnson, a lineman with PG&E, and that he heard them say, “stand up if you want to do something about it.” Hall rushed toward them as his friend, Michael

Johnson started to stand up and Newton punched Johnson in the face. At that point, Hall grabbed Newton by the neck and shoved him against the front window.

Hall said that Newton said something like, “Do it” and he saw that Heard, the bodyguard, was holding a gun. Heard said that he didn’t need a gun to whip Hall and Hall said, “Well, come on.” Heard handed the gun to Newton and then began fighting with Kenny Hall. A gunshot rang out and Newton was holding the gun straight up in the air. After the second shot, Kenny Hall went to the back room and closed the door against Newton. Today, there is still a bullet hole in the bar’s ceiling.

A different witness who saw Kenny Hall run behind the bar and into the liquor room said that it was Heard, the bodyguard, that pursued Hall with the gun (not Newton), and that he got his arm caught in the door as it was being closed and that he fired several shots into the liquor room before withdrawing. This witness said he was on the list of witnesses for the hearing but was not called. He also said that he received death threats not to testify.

Newton and the other two men left the bar and drove away just as Sheriff’s Deputy Randy Smiley arrived. He had to wait for the suspects to close their car door so that he could park. As Newton’s car left, the patrons ran out of the bar and told the Deputy to chase the suspects and warned him that they had a gun. The three were taken into custody shortly thereafter and a gun was found a block from where they

Matthew Wetstein College Agriculture, Science and Math Division. He was also Dean of Planning, Research and Institutional Effectiveness for five years.

“I am honored at the prospect of joining the Cabrillo College family,” Wetstein stated in a press release. “The entire process

were arrested.

The case went to a preliminary hearing with Judge William Kelsay presiding.

Judge Kelsay had formerly been a prosecutor with the District Attorney’s office and had been a Judge for about a year.

The hearing turned into what Judge Kelsay eventually described as “a can of worms,” with conflicting testimonies. At one point, Newton threatened that he would have to be bound and gagged unless he was granted a different attorney. Ultimately, the charges against Huey Newton were dropped and bodyguard Robert Heard was ordered to stand trial for being an ex-felon in possession of a firearm.

Huey Newton celebrated the victory but didn’t believe justice was served. He said, “By charging me unfairly, they have cost me bail premiums, attorney’s fees and time out of school. I’m out about $30,000.

If you call that justice, we have a different standard.”

Heard failed to make his court appearance and disappeared. He was arrested over a year later in Georgia for theft, and was extradited. Heard ultimately pleaded guilty to the weapons charge.

In June 1980, Huey P. Newton received his Doctorate in the History of Consciousness from UCSC and the following year, coauthored a book on deceit and self-deception.

Have we got a show for you! Our next “Coffee, Tea and Mystery” presentation will be the real, firsthand account of what happened at the preliminary hearing and

Huey Newton. Aptos History Museum archives

who-did-what-to-whom. Our presenter is Judge William Kelsay and it is guaranteed to be entertaining. Saturday, Jan. 27, 3-4:30 p.m. at the Rio Sands Hotel community room, 116 Aptos Beach Drive. $15 for Aptos History Museum members and $20 for non-members. Donation benefits the Museum. Reservations are required as this will sell out. 688-1467. If you like these stories, please consider becoming a member of the Museum.

Continued from page 1

of interviewing, meeting Cabrillo staff and faculty, and being recommended by the Search Committee has just reaffirmed how special the college is. I look forward to working with everyone to expand the Cabrillo culture of serving students and helping them make breakthroughs that

change their lives for the better.”

Wetstein has served as the President of the Research and Planning Group of the California Community Colleges since 2016.

He began his academic career as a political science instructor.

Wetstein holds a Ph.D. in political science and an M.A. in political science from Northern Illinois University, and he holds a B.A. in Political Science from the University of St. Francis, in Joliet, Ill.

JANUARY 2018

LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 7 Photo by Erik CHALHOUB

A pile of rubble marks the spot where the former Aptos Cinemas stood while other buildings have been stripped down as part of renovation work at the Rancho Del Mar Shopping Center in Aptos.

Staff report Pastor Rene Schlaepfer presents the total raised to Second Harvest Food Bank Holiday Food Drive co-chair Martina O’Sullivan. Photo by Adrian Moreno

Twin Lakes practices generosity Staff report APTOS — Twin Lakes Church recently announced the results of a two-month-long project in which members raised more than $286,000 for Second Harvest Food Bank, which is the equivalent of more than 1.1 million meals.

The eight-week program focused on pastor Rene Schlaepfer’s book “Richer Life,” which analyzes several biblical passages about how generosity and gratitude lead to a richer life experience.

As part of the study, members were urged to find “generosity projects” in their community.

During the project, church members collected more than 900 pairs of socks and hundreds of shoes for the homeless; and collected more than 2,300 pairs of pajamas for young people in homeless shelters and emergency foster care.

Keisha Frost

Members also cleaned windows, painted curbs, repaired buildings, and installed gutters at local public schools, among other projects.

In addition, congregants gave more than $50,000 in fire and flood relief to Santa Rosa and Houston-area churches.

“Lots of people also did what we call micro-projects,” staff pastor Valerie Webb said. “They found elderly widows, senior citizens, other struggling neighbors, and did yard work and home repairs for them.”

The church also raised nearly $7 million in pledges for the food bank, mission work, and for the construction of a college ministry center on church property adjacent to Cabrillo College.

“We plan for the center to include a beautiful public space for students to relax, grab a cup of coffee, and study between classes,” Schlaepfer said.

APTOS — Renovation work is moving forward on the Rancho Del Mar Shopping Center.

Terramar Retail Centers, the company that owns and operates the center, began demolition work on Oct. 9. The construction work will be divided into three phases and should take about a year to complete, TRC announced Friday.

The company will perform series of façade renovations at the center at State Park and Soquel drives, including creating an outdoor dining area, parking lot landscaping improvements and ADA accessibility upgrades.

The developer will also replace the signs throughout the center, and has demolished the former cinema building to construct retail space.

Six businesses were given 30 days to move in September so the construction work could begin.

Aptos Cinemas closed in 2016 after 45 years in operation. It had undergone a $250,000 upgrade in December 2013.

“The County of Santa Cruz has been very responsive and involved in the project, and this helped get things underway before the wet winter weather,” said Scott Grady, Senior Vice President of Development for TRC. “Our renovation will consist of new and improved people places such as additional common area seating with shaded tables, refreshed landscaping, and improved paths of travel for pedestrians. We are focused on delivering a shopping center that will be a community gathering place for years to come.”

Continued from page 1

brought those programs to my school.”

Frost will take the helm of the 76-yearold organization on Jan. 1, after Mary Lou Goeke retires.

“I am humbled, and I am ready to partner with the Board of Directors and the community in new ways of investing in and addressing our social challenges,” she said.

This includes affordable housing,

access to health services and helping young people graduate and prepare for the workforce, Frost said.

In addition, United Way has also tasked itself with tackling homelessness among young people, and with helping those who are aging out of the foster care system, Frost said.

Part of her challenge will be tapping into the population of millennials whose

income frequently does not allow them to donate, but whose passion for such causes inspires them to get involved in other ways, Frost said.

With that in mind, Frost created the organization’s Emerging Leaders Circle three years ago, which meets monthly to discuss pertinent topics.

“Times are changing,” she said.

“I’m showing them how they can be

philanthropists.”

Frost praised Goeke, who she described as an “amazing mentor.”

“One thing I love about her is how much she cares about people,” she said.

Frost has served as Director of Fund Development for the Santa Cruz United Way for five years. Before that, she spent two years at the Trident United Way in Charleston, S.C.

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JANUARY 2018

8 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel

Breaking the ‘cycle’

By JIM TUCKER PT, OCS and JAIME TUCKER RD The holiday season has come and gone and many are left with the familiar feeling of regret after months of lack of exercise and overeating. They feel tired, sluggish, and yes, out of shape and over-weight ... again.

This is what we call the “Holiday Weight Cycle.” The problem is that fad diets and extreme exercise routines are often a “goto” for most people; sometimes they work, but usually they don’t. For most these extreme measures are not sustainable and lead only to frustration or failure. For example, when one “starves” themselves or abruptly starts a daily, high-intensity exercise regimen it often leaves them feeling defeated and they quit; hence the “cycle” continues. The problem isn’t that people don’t have enough will-power, it’s the “System” itself. As a society we tend to set unrealistic expectations which pressures individuals to give into unhealthy behaviors such as this “Holiday Weight-Cycle.” Will 2018 be your year for change? Or will this cycle leave you one year farther from your goal to be healthy and fit again?

You may be asking yourself, “but how?”

How am I ever going to lose all this weight? How can I eat better? Will I ever be able to run five miles again? How could I possibly fit in those old jeans? Many make the mistake of focusing on the work, the challenge, and the effort that lay ahead.

They look to outside motivators, such as the fear of becoming sick and disabled or the thought of being embarrassed if seen

in a bathing suit. Though “fear” can be a motivator, it is extrinsic, negative and typically short term.

When it comes to long term behavioral changes one must look deeper within themselves to identify what truly motivates them. This is known as intrinsic motivation, or when a person engages in a behavior because it is naturally satisfying to do so, rather than because they feel like they have to. By tapping into how healthy behaviors make you feel rather than relying on fear or negative consequences, one is more likely to want to sustain these behaviors. Examples include having more fun, increased energy, better sleep, reduced stress, and improved function and mobility. By focusing on these types of motivations one can achieve lasting lifestyle change without guilt, pressure or negativity. In order to stop your “cycle” for good, the first step is to clearly identify activities you actually like to do, and find a balance of healthy foods you like to eat.

People often view nutrition as black or white; thinking of foods as either “good” or “bad.” While cutting out “bad” foods such as sugar or fat is likely to result in weight loss, it could also lead to binges later. This can leave one with feelings of shame and cause a snow ball effect of emotional eating. In order to find the intrinsic motivation to continue to eat healthy you have to actually like what you are eating. This means eating a balance of all food groups in your diet. Allowing yourself to have the occasional sweet gives you control of the food rather than letting the food control you. Knowing you can have a cookie tomorrow prevents you from needing to overindulge now. With

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to evaluate your health. It’s important to be screened for any major health issues as sometimes serious illness can remain silent, or have symptoms that are misinterpreted. Once you have been cleared “medically” by your doctor, then it’s time to get moving again. If you suffer from painful joints or chronic injuries, you should first seek treatment from a qualified physical therapist to help rehabilitate that nagging injury, relieve your pain, and regain your strength and mobility.

Next, and most important, find an activity you enjoy. Start hiking, cycling, yoga, or perhaps join a gym or hire a personal trainer to help you stay on track with your goals. Finding a friend or family member to work out with is a great way to have more fun with exercise and also can provide a sense of accountability. There are also small things you can change in your daily routine to increase the amount you move. Try taking the stairs, parking further away from the grocery store, or perhaps add another lap around Costco while doing your shopping. The key is to keep moving and be consistent. Once you’ve found an activity you enjoy doing, pay attention to the way you feel. Ask yourself; are there any changes in my mood? How well am I sleeping? Look for “non-scale” victories such as your how your clothes are fitting, changes in your energy levels, or how your daily activities have become easier and more productive. With practice, you will discover the positive results that come with joyful movement and mindful eating and you will finally break the “cycle” once and for all.

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that said, respect your body by eating a balanced diet and feeding it the nutrients it needs to function, grow and heal.

Many people suffer from “mindless eating,” especially around the holidays.

Learning to be “aware” while eating is a skill worth developing. When you pay attention to what you’re eating, you can make small changes that can make a big difference. Too often, we eat when our mind tells us too, instead of waiting for our bodies to signal hunger.

Mindful eating begins when you turn off “autopilot” grazing and actually mentally show up for the meal. This means tapping into your hunger and fullness cues and asking yourself why you are eating. Are you truly hungry? Or just eating out of boredom or stress? If you find you are eating for reasons other than hunger, find an alternative activity to help you cope, perhaps walk the dog, read a book, or call a friend.

Another tip is to learn about is portion control. A simple trick is to change the size of your plate. Larger plates lead to more food, more calories, and an increased likelihood of overeating. Try using a sixinch appetizer plate at your next dinner party; once you’ve finished, check in and see how you feel. Ask yourself, “am I still hungry?” If the answer is yes, go ahead and get seconds, however you may be surprised at how little food it really takes to satisfy your hunger. If you need some help getting control of your eating patterns or want to learn more about proper nutrition, seek help from a Registered Dietitian in your community.

To get your body back in shape again, first start by seeing your medical doctor

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JANUARY 2018

LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 9 Guest Columnist SERGIO ANGELES

Mortgage professionals, gatekeepers of the real estate market What came first, the chicken or the egg? How about “when I want to buy a home, who do I see first, the realtor or the loan officer? These are deep philosophical questions that require an astute examination of perception versus reality. The perception for years has been to walk into a real estate office and start the process of buying a home. The reality is doing it this way is like walking onto a car lot and walking right up to a salesman and asking if he would sell you a car.

Let me bring it down a notch for those of you who have never had the pleasure of walking onto a car lot. It’s like taking a rib eye steak that you just successfully grilled, cutting a small piece off and then asking one of your guests who’s been lingering around the grille for an hour if they would like to try a piece? Of course they will! Realtors, for better or worse, are sales people.

Buying a car is a perfect example of how systems are set up to sell you what you

might not be able to afford. A car lot never offers to run numbers for you until you have already fallen in love with the car of your dreams … good luck negotiating after you’ve pictured yourself showing off your new car to all your friends. Negotiating is futile! Realtors are there to sell you, not to question whether or not you should buy a home or sell your house.

If you agree that a home is large financial responsibility, then wouldn’t you want to talk to finance professional first and foremost? Talking to a mortgage professional (like me) first is an invaluable part of the real estate market and it’s free!

Why? Because I’m here to keep you in check … I protect you against yourself.

Who doesn’t want to own a home or sell a home for a large profit … but what if you’re not financially set up to buy a home or what would you do with a large profit if you sell your home? Wait for your relatives to find out so they can circle you like buzzards.

Mortgage professionals have an understanding of personal income taxes, investments, cash flow, small business pitfalls, retirement planning, living trust and of course interest rates and real estate market changes. The one thing we don’t have as mortgage professionals is the time it takes to find the right home and to manage the entire transaction all the way through, that’s the realtors’ job; realtors have many sleepless nights so when your realtor shows up looking like something out of the “Walking Dead” don’t assume they have been up partying all night.

Mortgage professionals run proposed house payments and have the actual costs it takes to get a home.

Now! As someone who loves to negotiate (bargaining at the flea market is one of my favorite things to do) the number one rule of negotiation is you have to know what you are negotiating for, meaning you have to know how much are you willing to pay for something before you start negotiating

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(you professional eBay shoppers out there know this rule very well). Visiting with a loan officer will give you all the ammunition (numbers) you need for once you get out there with your tour guide and begin the hunt.

By the way, now that you understand who to see first, you should also know that science has fully determined that the egg came first. Sorry, chicken.

Second District Update - Reflections on my fifth year as your County Supervisor

By ZACH FRIEND

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY SUPERVISOR

As I begin each new year as your County Supervisor, I like to report back in this column on some of the things we’ve accomplished because of your partnership and communication of priorities. Here is a very small overview of what we accomplished in 2017: Community Meetings: In 2017, we’ve held 71 open office hours in Aptos, Corralitos, La Selva Beach and Watsonville and held or attended nearly 50 community and neighborhood meetings in Seacliff, La Selva Beach, Aptos, Watsonville,

Capitola and Corralitos. In addition, I’ve written over 50 columns in local papers and neighborhood newsletters and sent a number of e-newsletters to communicate with our district about county happenings.

Housing: The Board focused extensively this year on making the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) easier.

ADUs (sometimes called “granny units”) are one of the quickest ways to improve the housing stock — especially the affordable housing stock. We adopted the reduction of fees, streamlined administrative practices and regulations and created programs to assist with design, financing, and obtaining a building permit. The Board prohibited these ADUs from becoming vacation rentals to ensure the units become longterm rentals or an on-site living location for seniors aging in place, for example.

Additionally, new housing will be coming online soon in the Aptos Village, including deed-restricted affordable housing, with a significant interest list of local residents.

Local Roads: This year saw historic levels of rain and over $130 million in damage to local roads and county facilities (such as parks). We have successfully begun repairs (and completed some repairs) on major damage to Valencia, Soquel, Cabrillo College Drive and other locations in the district. While we anticipate it can take up to five years for all of the repairs to be completed, the majority of projects in our district have been prioritized to be completed in the first three years (and many in 2018).

Additionally, this year we established a five-year work program for local roads as a result of the passage of Measure D. The program, which begins in a few months, includes work in La Selva Beach, Seacliff, Rio Del Mar, Corralitos and other areas in greater Aptos.

Public Safety: This year, with the leadership and partnership of the District Attorney’s Office, we opened the MultiDisciplinary Interview Center (MDIC).

The MDIC is a neutral, family-friendly facility for conducting forensic interviews for child victims of sexual and physical abuse in Santa Cruz County. Unlike the previous model, which requires victims to be interviewed multiple times (often in multiple locations) by multiple agencies, a MDIC works to have the child interviewed once in a more child-centered and supportive environment. Additionally, the Board supported continued funding of the Recovery Center, a joint partnership with the Sheriff’s Office and Janus, to divert alcohol-related crimes away from jail and to a treatment facility.

Economic Vitality and Reserves: The Aptos Village Project continued work, Rancho Del Mar broke ground and improvements began in Seacliff as part of the utility undergrounding and streetscape (village) improvement project.

The Sunesys fiber broadband line was completed (which covers much of the urban and some of the rural portions of our district) which we believe will help improve broadband access, speed and

costs in many parts of our district in the next few years.

Additionally, the Board has worked to streamline other processes in the Planning Department by increasing electronic plans submittal and reducing times for certain permits. During our budget hearings we again voted to increase our reserves, which has led to improved bond ratings and lower borrowing costs. We’ve received data from state analysts concerned about a potential recession and the Board has wanted to ensure that we have a larger reserve should it come to fruition.

Moving Forward: The above is just a partial list of what we’ve done this year and I know there is a lot more to do on all of these issues in 2018. We made significant progress on cannabis policy, created a new Thrive by Three program to help local kids in their first three years of life, hired a new County Administrative Officer, started a strategic planning process and more. This past year we estimate that we addressed more than 750 direct requests for service to our office on transportation and road issues, neighborhood public safety concerns, storm damage, environmental issues, health and human services, technology services and more – all from your emails, visits during office hours and calls to us.

••• We’d love to continue to hear from you to prioritize what we do. Call us at 4542200 and have a great New Year!

JANUARY 2018

10 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel

Financial Advice

Fine-tuning moves for 2018

By GARY E. CROXALL, CFP® and SOREN E. CROXALL, CFP® Last month we wrote about a couple of year-end money moves to make. Now that we’ve rung in the New Year, below are a couple of areas to look to fine-tune your financial life for 2018.

• Review Credit Card and Bank Statements — If you only glance occasionally at your credit card and bank statements, take a few minutes to sit down and really review them. Get a good sense of where your money is going each month. On your credit card statements, do you see a lot of “impulse” or “emotional” buys? Are there expenses that you can potentially cut back or eliminate altogether? If you typically set up recurring payments for auto-payment, it could be that you are paying monthly fees for memberships and subscriptions that you no longer use and had forgotten to cancel. Lastly, while reviewing your credit card and bank statements, look for any charges you don’t recognize.

• Review Your Credit Report — As we mentioned in last month’s article, if you haven’t checked your credit report in a while, do so now. Look for reporting errors and accounts you don’t recognize. If you see anything fraudulent or suspicious, notify the three credit reporting agencies right away.

• Plan and Budget for Big Expenses — Look at the remainder of 2018 — are there any big expenses that you anticipate coming up throughout the year? This could be home repairs you’ve been putting off, a new car or existing car maintenance, braces for your children, or a vacation that you would like to take. Start thinking about these expenses sooner rather than later and begin actively saving for them each month. By proactively thinking about big ticket items that you expect to come up in the next 12 months, you’ll be less likely to be caught off guard and having to scramble to come up with the money.

• Review Your Insurance Coverage — The start of the New Year is good time to review your various insurance coverages. Have you had any life events that might trigger the need for life insurance? This could include events like getting married or a new

baby. Do you have adequate disability coverage provided through your employer for your needs or do you need to buy a policy on your own?

When was the last time you formally reviewed your auto and homeowners policies with your agent to determine if your current coverage is still adequate for your needs? If it’s been a while, you could have holes or gaps in your coverage you may be unaware of.

Work with a qualified professional to determine your needs.

• Automate Your Savings — Consider automatically moving a fixed monthly portion of your paycheck to a savings or taxable investment account. By setting this up on autopilot, you won’t miss the money and you’ll be able to automatically save for certain goals (like building an emergency fund, for instance).

• Review Retirement Savings — Along the same lines of automating your monthly savings, review what you are contributing each month to retirement savings. If you aren’t already contributing the maximum amount allowed to an employer sponsored retirement plan, review your budget and see if you can increase your contribution.

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With the daily pressure of work, children and personal schedules, it can be easy to let simple items that can be important to your current financial situation and future financial well-being go to the bottom of your “to do” list. There is no required schedule or “deadline” to review these items, but it does not make them any less important. That’s why we recommend you start 2018 by setting your own personal deadline of the month of January to review and update those financial items that are important to you.

Gary E. Croxall, CFP® Registered Principal of LPL Soren E. Croxall, CFP® LPL Registered Sales Assistant Securities and Advisory Services offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Advisor. 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. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC.

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JANUARY 2018

LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 11

Aptos real estate update • 2017 It has been quite a year — in real estate, and in so many ways! 2017 saw flat sales transactions overall but an increase in sales volume.

In 2016, total volume for Santa Cruz County (SCC) was $15.6B on 1,754 home sales, 200 townhome sales and 285 condo sales. The Median Home sales price was $785K. In 2017 (through Dec. 15), total SCC volume is $16.5B on 1,756 homes sales, 193 townhome sales and 277 condo sales. The Median Home sales price is now at $840K, a 7 percent increase year over year. So, number of sales is flat but sales revenues are up $1 billion in our county.

In Aptos, sales transaction are also flat, but Median Sales Price on homes rose by 16 percent (more than double the county average of 7 percent) from $865K in 2016 to $1000K (yup, that’s $1.0 million) in 2017. Condo median prices went up 18 percent, but townhomes only went up 4 percent. Currently there are 39 homes on the market in Aptos at Avg. List Price of

$1,250,000 (Maximum price $5,950,000, Minimum price $725,000), but days on market average 103, so some of these prices will have to come down.

The Aptos Village (theaptosvillage. com) is almost ready to begin releasing sales of the first 33 homes, townhomes and condos. Prices are not yet announced, but the website does show BLG 3=16 condos on 2nd and 3rd floor, BLG 11 = 6 two-car garage and BLG 12 = 11 Onecar garage homes/townhomes on Granite Way. I believe that there will be 3-4 “affordable units” (County Affordable Housing program) available within this release. Check the Aptos Village website for pricing and availability updates.

The feds did raise the interest rate another 1/4 point on Dec. 13, but so far, mortgage rates remain at historical lows. Bankrate. com on Dec. 15 quotes 4.09 percent for a 30-year fixed mortgage. A year ago, the rate was 4.30 percent (and 3.95 percent in 2015). The (soon-to-be) new tax laws

REAL ESTATE

Update

By RUTH BATES

Broker Associate & MBA

will create significant changes to housing write-offs. Some of the proposed changes include capping the sum of state and local income tax and property tax write-offs (on primary residences) at $10,000. This would mean that any home purchases over $800,000, assuming a 1.25 percent Property Tax rate, would not allow a tax deduction for any amount over $800,000, and no write off at all for state taxes on the

federal tax form. The latest tax proposal caps the mortgage deduction write-off at $750,000 (a compromise between House wanting $500,000 and Senate wanting $1,000,000 caps). This will only apply to new home purchases.

The one constant I know is that Aptos is a fabulous place to live! I’m hopeful for a wonderful 2018! Happy New Year to all!

Ask Nicole: The many faces of positive parenting

By NICOLE M. YOUNG, MSW There’s a Chinese proverb, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.”

It makes me think of the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program motto, “Small changes, big differences.” Together, both quotes provide a helpful reminder that in this lifelong journey called “parenting,” the greatest growth and change often comes from taking one small step at a time.

Raising children is physically, mentally and emotionally exhausting and exhilarating at the same time. Many parents stumble, take short-cuts, or want to give up during their parenting journey.

But with support and encouragement, we keep taking small steps and get closer to our goal of raising happy, healthy, thriving children.

This January marks the sixth annual Positive Parenting Awareness Month in Santa Cruz County. It’s a time to reflect on the importance of positive parenting and encourage families to use local resources, such as the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program. Over the years, we’ve met many people who have taken small steps to reduce the stress of parenting, and in

the process, have rediscovered the joy of raising their children. These are just a few of the many faces of positive parenting that we’re celebrating this month.* Juana, a single mother, found that a few positive parenting strategies made a world of difference. “My children were out of control, and I had no one to help me.

I didn’t know what to do. I was actually afraid of my kids. They never listened to me … and they yelled and threw toys at me whenever I said ‘no’ to them. I felt like a complete failure. When I learned the positive parenting strategy, Descriptive Praise, I thought my kids would just ignore me, but it was a miracle! They began to respond to the praise … and I noticed the kids started to repeat the behaviors I had praised. Now, the yelling has stopped at home, and I feel like we are all happier.

I wish someone had told me about these parenting strategies when I first had my kids.”

Victor, a single father, had been afraid to discipline his 6-year-old daughter out of fear that she would think he didn’t love her. After learning about the difference between discipline and punishment, Victor understood that assertive discipline is one of the five principles of positive parenting.

“That was important because it helped me understand that discipline can be nurturing, and to not be afraid to set limits. After learning positive parenting strategies, my life has completely changed. My daughter listens to me now, and I feel we have a

better relationship. I can take her to the store, the park, and to visit friends. The simple parenting strategies really helped us.”

Stephanie and Luke, the parents of a child with special needs, used positive parenting strategies to reduce their child’s tantrums, which had become more extreme and violent. Stephanie and Luke learned that the tantrums were related to their child’s frustration over not being able to speak, so they taught their child other ways to express his feelings and needs. Now their son plays cooperatively with other children and is able to follow directions.

Stephanie and Luke realized that making small changes made a big difference, and they are more confident as parents.

William, a divorced father of four teenagers, was required to take coparenting classes. At first, William had little confidence in himself as a parent.

As he participated in a positive parenting program specifically for divorced or separated parents, he learned how to recognize and cope with his own emotions about the divorce, reduce conflict over coparenting issues with his former partner, and balance work, family and play time.

William learned simple parenting strategies that helped him anticipate and handle any challenging teen behaviors and involve his teens in problem-solving. At the end of the program, William’s relationships with his teen children were healthier, stronger and mutually respectful, and his parenting

confidence had soared.

Final thoughts: I continue to be inspired by the strength, courage and persistence of all the parents who value their children and themselves enough to reach out for support. During Positive Parenting Awareness Month – and every day throughout the year – take a moment to acknowledge the small steps you’re taking to be a positive parent. It may seem like progress is slow or nonexistent, but one day you will look back and be amazed at the distance you’ve traveled.

If you have a question or idea for future columns, please email me at triplep@ first5scc.org. * All names have been changed ••• Nicole Young is the mother of two children, ages 14 and 17, 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.

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JANUARY 2018

12 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel

SPORTS

WITH

TONY NUNEZ

Defending champ St. Francis, runner-up Aptos both in mix for league championship SANTA CRUZ COUNTY — From top to bottom, the Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League might be as talented and as competitive as it’s ever been.

St. Francis High is coming off a historic season in which it won the league title as well as Central Coast Section and California Interscholastic Federation Northern California championships.

Aptos High and Santa Cruz High each return numerous stars after finishing second and third, respectively, and the rivals started the season a combined 113, while also winning two tournament crowns.

And then there’s Soquel High, which has six wins to start the season and has played toe-to-toe with Santa Cruz and Palma, the three-year reigning champ of the Monterey Bay League Gabilan division and a CIF NorCal finalist a year ago.

“This year our league might be the most balanced it’s been in a while,” said St. Francis head coach Ed Kelly.

Kelly and the Sharks are the returning champs but might not be the favorites to repeat after losing eight players to graduation. Last year’s league M.V.P., point guard Sandor Rene Rodriguez, is gone and so is sharpshooting guard Dominic Figueroa and 6-foot-4, 270-pound center Ruben Ibarra. St. Francis’ scrappy bench, which helped the program reach its firstever CIF state final, was also drained by graduation.

The Sharks, however, do have star senior forwards Chase Watkins and Jason Gallo returning to the starting lineup and Kelly’s son, E.J., running the point after serving as

the backup as a sophomore last season.

Watkins, who is 6-foot-4, paced the Sharks in scoring with 17.4 points per game last season but has not played this season because of an abdomen injury.

The high-flying scoring machine that is committed to play NCAA Division I baseball at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo next season is expected to make his return in early January.

In the meantime, Gallo, a 6-foot5 rebounding machine with a smooth jumper, has guided the Sharks to a 6-2 start and a pair of tournament finals, while the newcomers have tried to catch up to the speed of the varsity game.

Forwards C.J. Gomez, Bobby Rigor, Nic Martinez and Jake Taylor and guards Andrew Seymour and Joseph Ramirez — all of whom are juniors — have all been tasked with replacing last year’s solid crop of complementary players.

“We’ve had our ups and downs which does not surprise me with the amount of new players that we have,” Kelly said.

“They’ve all had the flashes here and there … it’s about making those plays more consistently.”

Over at Aptos, the Mariners not only return their top three scorers but head coach Joseph Smith is also back in the fold. Smith, who took over the program during the 2003-04 campaign, stepped away last season to become an assistant principal at the school and assistant coach Brian Bowyer took over as the interim head coach. But with the blessing of Aptos principal Peggy Pughe, Smith returned to the sidelines.

“It’s just like riding a bike,” the coach said of getting back into the flow of things.

“Once that ball is thrown up in the air it all comes back.”

With Smith gone last season, Bowyer guided a defensive-minded Aptos squad to the CCS playoffs for the 14th straight season. Guard Rashaun Wooden, wing Forrest Hays and center Blake Welle all return from that team for their senior seasons.

Wooden is a fast-twitch 6-foot guard that can pour in 20 points on any given night; Hays is a do-it-all 6-foot-2 playmaker; and 6-foot-7 Welle is a presence in the paint that can also knock down a shot from deep.

Guard Jackson Carver and forwards Logan Southall, Joe Mendoza and Gino Stefanini are also seniors for Aptos, which has nine players measuring in at 6-feet or taller.

Smith also credited the talented junior class — guards Max Pepperdine and Silvano Lopez and forwards Anthony Sanchez, Shane Modena, Logan Feldbrugge and Hunter Matys — for getting the team off to a hot start.

“The practices have been really competitive and that’s helped push us,” Smith said.

Last year’s league title chase was somewhat of a two-horse race between St. Francis and Aptos early in the season but things got a little interesting with the emergence of youthful Santa Cruz late in the year.

It seems like the Cardinals, who graduated only three from a roster of 17, have continued to develop since the end of

last season. Their lone loss this season was a seven-point setback against state-ranked Central Catholic.

Speedy 5-foot-10 senior guard Max Dehart and shotmaking 6-foot-4 junior forward Robert Bishop are just two of many weapons the lengthy Cardinals will throw at opponents.

“They’re a solid team,” Smith said.

“They’ve impressed me when I’ve seen them live.”

Soquel, too, figures to factor into the league title race. Led by longtime head coach Stu Walters, the Knights are off to their best start since the 2012-13 season, a year in which they won the SCCAL crown and advanced to the NorCal Division IV semifinals.

The Knights play tight defense with junior bigs Lincoln Cooley and Zeke Thomas — 6-foot-2 and 6-foot-3, respectively — controlling the paint and 6-foot-1 senior guards Andrew Schumacher and Ryan Murtha provide the scoring.

With several sizable players at its disposal, Scotts Valley High could also be a contender in the SCCAL. The Falcons feature three players 6-foot-7 or taller, including senior bigs Carson Spence (6-7) and Tyler Harris (6-10). Their ace scorer, senior guard Reece Stratford, is also tall, measuring in at 6-foot-4.

Harbor High and San Lorenzo Valley High also compete in the SCCAL and neither will be taken lightly.

“I really mean it when I say it’s going to be a battle,” Smith said. “Any given night, anybody can win. It’s going to be fun.”

JANUARY 2018

LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 13

Aptos High junior Max Pepperdine (10) attacks a defender during a tournament game against Antelope High in Carmel earlier this season.

Pepperdine and the Mariners return loaded and ready to make a run at the SCCAL crown this season.

Photo by Tony Nunez

SPORTS

WITH

TONY NUNEZ

Aptos returns majority of starters for title runs SANTA CRUZ COUNTY — The Aptos High Mariners seem to have picked up right where they left off last season.

With what they have back, it is no surprise.

The Mariners have nine holdovers from a squad that stunned the Central Coast Section en route to the program’s first section title since 1983.

Their leading scorers and starting guards, junior Hannah Hocom and sophomore Gabby Giuffre, are back and their two best bigs, sophomore Natalia Ackerman and senior Abbi Saxton, also return for fourth-year head coach Stefan Hocom – Hannah’s father.

The return and continued improvement from the aforementioned quartet was somewhat expected. But the boost from the other players on this year’s 11-player roster has been a nice surprise, which has lifted the Mariners to yet another level.

Junior wing Abby Pardue has upped her efficiency from deep and taken over as a captain. And twin sisters Emma and Madison Stefanini have made all-around leaps in their game, taking up the minutes left vacant by sparkplug Teal Maixner, who was integral in the Mariners’ run to the CCS D-III title as a senior last season.

“We have so many weapons,” Ackerman said. “Everyone comes off the bench and is ready to go in. They all have that confidence. There’s no fear.”

Ackerman might be the most improved

of all. Last year, the 6-foot-1 forward was primarily used for defense and rebounding but this season she is leading Aptos in points, rebounds, steals and blocks per game.

Giuffre, too, has added to her game.

Her passing is better and she is also more effective from 3-point range.

The duo might have been a bit timid as freshman last campaign but they are certainly not deer in the headlights this season.

“They’re over it,” coach Hocom said of Ackerman and Giuffre. “They’re like, ‘OK, I’m here and I belong. I’m going to show what I can do.’”

Aptos started the season ranked 20th in Northern California by Sports Stars Magazine and its only slip-up came against CCS D-II champion Presentation.

Other than that game, the Mariners have beaten their opponents by double digits in all of their wins with their balanced scoring, which has taken the pressure off of Hocom.

As a sophomore, the sharpshooter was spectacular, hitting 72 3-pointers and averaging 15.1 points per game. But the Mariners’ offense was often feast or famine depending on her performance.

With Ackerman, Giuffre, Pardue and the Stefanini sisters’ upgrades, however, that is no longer the case.

“Pretty much everyone on our team can hit a 3, pass and dribble,” Pardue said.

“Plus, everyone is really supportive of

Aptos High sophomore guard Emma Stefanini (3) makes a pass during a preseason game against Palo Alto High earlier this season. Photo by Tony Nunez

each other. That helps us a lot to get the confidence up. Every time you hit a shot you hear the bench go crazy.”

With all of the improvement to the returning talent, the Mariners figure to be the favorites to win the league championship a season after finishing runner-up.

Aptos has not won a league title since the 2000-01 season.

Reigning Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League champion Soquel High graduated only four players but two of them, Michaela Thornton and Nayeli Rodriguez, shared the league’s Most Valuable Player honor last season.

Still, the Knights figure to be in the title

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conversation with a tough bunch featuring forward Mckenzie Duran and center Mckenna Finch, both of who are juniors.

Scotts Valley High finished third last season but the Falcons also lost two big contributors in forwards Sam Boyle and Casson Rasmussen. The keys to a program that dominated the SCCAL for three straight seasons before last year seem to be in the hands of sophomore forward Elle Giguiere.

St. Francis High took fourth last season and returns plenty from a team that advanced to the program’s fourth CCS D-V championship game in the last five years.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR Ongoing Writing workshop

A workshop for writers of all levels will be held Mondays at the Capitola Community Center, 4400 Jade St., Jan. 8 through Feb. 5 from 5:30-7 p.m.

The workshop aims to help writers sustain their creative writing habit.

Every week students will receive inclass writing exercises and optional homework. Attendees will learn techniques of craft and tips for editing and polishing. The workshop will also explore submission strategies and a variety of publishing options. To register, visit apm.activecommunities. com/capitolarecreation/Activity_ Search/sustain-your-creative-writinghabit/6406.

Jan. 11

The guest speaker will be Second District County Supervisor Zach Friend.

Admission is $20 for members, $25 for non-members. For reservations, call 688-1467.

Jan. 12-14 Fungus Fair

The 44th annual Santa Cruz Fungus Fair will take place at the Louden Nelson Community Center, 301 Center St. in Santa Cruz, on Jan. 12 from 1-5 p.m., and Jan. 13 and 14 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Presented by the Fungus Federation of Santa Cruz, attendees will learn about the hundreds of species of mushrooms found in the Monterey Bay Area. For information and admission prices, visit ffsc.us.

Jan. 16

Breakfast meeting

The Aptos Chamber of Commerce will hold its monthly breakfast meeting at the Best Western Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion Court, from 7:30-9 a.m.

CPR class

The Aptos/La Selva Fire Protection District is offering a free CPR class from 6-8 p.m. The class is not a professional

JANUARY 2018 certification, but serves as a basic instruction for adult, infant and child CPR, as well as a brief segment on defibrillator pad use. Minors welcome, with adult supervision. Classes are held at the Administration Office, in the upstairs meeting room at 6934 Soquel Drive, Aptos (ADA lift available in rear of building). Space is limited, so early registration is recommended.

To register, contact Admin. Asst.

Sarah Melton at 685-6690 or sarahm@ aptosfire.com.

Jan. 20 Novel writing workshop

A workshop, taking place from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Capitola Community Center, 4400 Jade St., will help writers learn how to write a novel in two weeks. To register, visit apm.activecommunities.com/ capitolarecreation/Activity_Search/ how-to-write-your-novel-in-twoweeks/6407.

Jan. 21 Health & Fitness Expo

The second annual Santa Cruz Health & Fitness Expo will take place at Kaiser Permanente Arena. The event will showcase businesses and professionals in the health and fitness industry. For information, visit www.aptoschamber. com.

Jan. 28 Bridal expo The Cocoanut Grove, 400 Beach St. in Santa Cruz, will hold its annual bridal expo from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Wedding planners can learn about photographers, florists, caterers, bakers, wedding and reception venues, and more.

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16 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel

JANUARY 2018