JANUARY 2017 EVERYTHING APTOS, CAPITOLA & SOQUEL Vol. 5 No. 6
APTOS
SOQUEL
Seascape Park upgrades
Monterey Bay League accepts Aptos football
pg. 2
pg. 12
CAPITOLA
Plan revealed to address dental disease in county Staff report APTOS — The Oral Health Access Strategic Plan was released on Dec. 5 to a packed audience at Seascape Golf Club. Oral Health Access Santa Cruz County is a 17-member steering committee comprised of healthcare providers, policy makers and community advocates. The committee has been focused on dental disease in the county for months, using Dientes-commissioned oral health needs assessment to better understand the access problem and determine plans to address it. The study, “Increasing Access to Dental Services for Children and Adults on the Central Coast,” outlined the issue. Of the 80,000 people on Medi-Cal in Santa Cruz County, only 25,000 were able to see the dentist. The needs assessment also revealed that, although dental coverage is required to be made available for children under all health plans, 30.8 percent of children in Santa Cruz County under the age of 11 have never visited a dentist and almost onequarter of all pre-K children have untreated dental decay. Please turn to Page 7
These people enjoy taking sunset photos at the mouth of the San Lorenzo River in Santa Cruz. Photo by Tarmo Hannula
New law makes holding cell phone while driving illegal
HISTORY CORNER By John Hibble Call: 688-1467 Visit us online: aptoshistory.org
By BEK SABEDRA
Visit the museum: 7605-B Old Dominion Court Aptos, CA
Come Jan. 1, drivers will be required to keep their hands off their phones when behind the wheel. The most recent of laws designed to curb distracted driving by regulating cell phone use, AB 1785
The Ding-Wha comes to Aptos
Back when I was in the Navy, Ding-Wha was a slang name for the telephone, (it goes “ding” then you pick it up and ask “wha?” [what?]). Isn’t trivia (A) fascinating, (B) ridiculous, (C) all of the above? We take telephones for granted today. In fact, we take them with us everywhere. The telephone was invented by Alexander Graham Bell in 1876 and within 20 years there were plenty of businesses in Santa Cruz with telephones. It would be over a century before cellular phones became available. The very first telephones were directly connected to another telephone but almost immediately the telephone exchange was invented. Each phone was connected to a switchboard overseen by Please turn to Page 6
modifies current restrictions by making it illegal to hold an electronic device in your hand while operating a vehicle. Instead, drivers who want to use their phone for its navigation features or music will be required to Please turn to Page 7
County mental health official making strides By BEK SABEDRA
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Director Erik Riera said he was brought into his profession after watching people struggle with mental health issues. Photo by Bek Sabedra
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY — More than three years ago, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Director Erik Riera came to Santa Cruz County aiming to address the vast mental health needs of the community. Since then, a slew of advances have been made, with many more on the way, according to Riera.
“It was striking to me how extraordinary it is that when a problem comes up — people really come together to figure out how to solve it rather than point fingers and say ‘it’s your problem to fix,’” he said. “That’s really why we have been able to advance many of these initiatives.” Riera said he has always had an interest in helping people that was Please turn to Page 9
Inside ...
Inner Light Ministries ........3 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
2 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
Seascape Park gets a boost
New play structures are part of a recent upgrade at Seascape Park. Close to $100,000 went in to the work that included landscaping and benches. Supervisor Zach Friend said the improvements add a number of features that are suitable for children of all ages. The next phase will address the second play area to provide a kid’s swing and refurbishing. “These improvements mark the most significant investment in the park in a generation,” he said. “When all of the elements are complete there will be something new for visitors of all ages. It was important to us to honor the landscape and natural beauty of the park and surrounding area with these improvements many of which came from direct requests from park visitors.”
JANUARY 2017 Photos by Tarmo HANNULA
A woman enjoys a stroll on one of the scenic trails at Seascape Park. The sixacre park is located along the bluff over Monterey Bay, adjacent to Seascape Resort. The park features a picnic area, wheelchair accessible playground, and restrooms. There’s a walking path, which leads from the park along the bluff and to the Seascape Resort, which provides access to the beach below.
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Aptos Chamber news First-ever Health & Fitness Week scheduled SANTA CRUZ — Health and fitness professionals are invited to participate in the first Santa Cruz Health & Fitness Week, Jan. 29 through Feb. 4. The idea is to offer a way for Santa Cruz County residents to try classes, sessions, workshops and more. The week will begin with a kick-off fair at the Kaiser Permanente Arena, 140 Front St. in Santa Cruz, on Sunday, Jan. 29 from 12-3 p.m. Participants are invited to showcase their business to the general public while catching up with other professionals in the industry. The week to follow will allow new clients to try out what businesses have to offer at their locations. Tickets for the general public will cost $10 and includes entry into the showcase on Jan. 29 and one class, etc. per location from Jan. 30 through Feb. 4. Businesses who sign up now will receive $100 off the registration fee. To participate, contact Jennifer Davis at jennifer@aptoschamber.com.
Business Showcase returns APTOS — The Business Showcase presented by the Aptos and Capitola/Soquel Chambers of Commerce will return Feb. 22 from 4-7 p.m. at the Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Drive in Aptos. Organizers are currently putting out a call for exhibitors. To register for a booth or table at the event, call the Aptos or Capitola/Soquel Chambers of Commerce at 688-1467 or 475-6522. The showcase includes cooking demonstrations, storm prepared readiness, Sheriff and CHP demos on safety, health and wellness, crafts and more.
JANUARY 2017
LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 3
Sheriff’s office warns of bad LSD By TODD GUILD SANTA CRUZ COUNTY — The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office said Dec. 23 that LSD has caused adverse reactions in four incidents, a trend that started when police shot a 15-year-old boy under the influence of the drug to death. Luke Smith, 15, reportedly stabbed his father and uncle several times on Nov. 19. He resisted numerous orders to surrender, and kept fighting despite being struck by several non-lethal rubber bullets and Taser blasts. Still armed with a knife, he was shot to death during a struggle with a police
dog. On Dec. 12, California Highway Patrol officers fought with a man on Highway 17 after he was reported to have ingested LSD. Then on Dec. 14, the Sheriff’s Office received a report of a minor having a seizure after ingesting liquid LSD that was placed on an ice pop. She was rushed to a hospital, where she nearly died, Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Sgt. Chris Clark said. Over the following weekend the Sheriff’s Office responded to two additional reports of people experiencing life-threatening reactions to reported LSD.
On Dec. 16 a teenaged boy on the drug nearly caused the vehicle he was in to crash. He then fled into the woods, and later came out unharmed. On Dec. 19 another teen had to be physically restrained by his brother after reportedly taking LSD that was placed on a mint. It is unclear whether the LSD in these cases comes from the same batch or supplier. Clark did not respond to a request for comment Monday. “We are actively searching for those responsible for bringing this and other dangerous drugs into our county,” he said
in a press release. Clark warned that there is likely more LSD circulating in the community, along with other drugs. He said the SCSO is asking parents and mentors to help fight the issue by talking with their children. “We believe our collective effort can have an effect on this issue and help safeguard the bright futures we all hope for our children,” he said. ••• Anyone with questions or concerns can call 471-1121 and ask to speak with a deputy. Other resources can be found at www.recoverywave.com.
Inner Light Ministries celebrating 20th anniversary Staff report SOQUEL — Inner Light Ministries is celebrating 20 years. Its year-long celebration kicks off on Saturday, Jan. 21 at 1 p.m. in an afternoon with Michael Bernard Beckwith. Beckwith will be signing books after the kickoff and will be joined by Inner Light’s founder, Rev. Deborah L. Johnson and the Inner Light Choir. The afternoon festivities are followed by a dinner, capped with an evening concert by FLOYD-LULA, Gary Floyd and Jami Lula who bring a message of action with compassion. “In times such as these, diverse and divergent peoples learning how to live in Oneness is one of the most pressing issues of the day,” Johnson said. “Inner Light pioneers possibility. I am so grateful to the thousands of people who have dared
engage one another across race, class, spiritual orientation, gender expression, and life styles to build and model the beloved community.” Tickets for the Inner Light Ministries 20-Year Anniversary Kickoff are available online for $75 for the whole day at tinyurl. com/ILM20Years. Individual events may be purchased separately. Other 20-Year Anniversary festivities include Linda Tillery & The Cultural Heritage Choir in concert on Feb. 25, and the Inner Light Choir in a Gospel Concert on April 15, featuring resident director David Wells, and Tammy Hall on piano. All are invited. Inner Light Center is located at 5630 Soquel Drive in Soquel. For information, visit www.InnerLightMinistries.com.
Aptos celebrates Christmas Children pose for photos with Santa Claus during the annual Holiday Craft Fair & Tree Lighting in Aptos Village on Saturday. The event featured nearly 20 vendors and crafts booths, as well as performances by Sam Nigh Band and Kristy’s School of Dance. Manuel’s Restaurant provided free hot chocolate. “It’s so wonderful that we can all be together and celebrate living in Aptos,” said Karen Hibble, co-executive director of the Aptos Chamber of Commerce. “It’s so important for communities to be together.”
Photos by Erik CHALHOUB
FLOYD-LULA will perform during Inner Light Ministries’ 20-year celebration event on Jan. 21. Contributed photo
JANUARY 2017
4 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
DIENTES
CASA
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
Dine at Shadowbrook to support Dientes
CASA holding info sessions
Scholarships available from Community Foundation
Dientes Dental Director Dr. Sepi Walthard cares for Rowan Peterson. Contributed photo
Staff report CAPITOLA — Diners can “Dine For Dientes” from 5-9 p.m. Jan. 17 at Shadowbrook Restaurant, 1750 Wharf Road in Capitola. Shadowbrook will donate one-third of all their food and beverage sales (excluding happy hour) toward providing free dental care for low income, uninsured children when diners mention to their server that they are there to support Dientes. Dientes is a nonprofit dental clinic. To make “Dine For Dientes” reservations, call 475-1511 or visit www.shadowbrook-capitola. com.
Staff report SANTA CRUZ COUNTY — Court Appointed Special Advocates of Santa Cruz County is holding information sessions. CASA volunteer Advocates are everyday people, trained by CASA and then appointed by judges to advocate for the safety of children who have been removed from their homes because of abuse or neglect. CASA volunteers devote two to four hours a week getting to know the child and gathering information from everyone involved in the child’s case. Advocates stay with each case until the child is placed in a safe, permanent home. Although there is a need for bilingual and male volunteers, CASA encourages people from all cultures and professions and of all ethnic and educational backgrounds to learn more. Upcoming informational sessions are: • Friday, Jan. 6, from 12-1 p.m. at Surf City Coffee, 9105 Soquel Drive in Aptos • Tuesday, Jan. 10, from 6-7 p.m. at Live Oak Family Resource Center, 1740 17th Ave. in Santa Cruz • Wednesday, Jan. 11, from 5:30-7 p.m. at CASA, 813 Freedom Blvd. in Watsonville • Thursday, Jan. 12, from 2-3 p.m. at The Buttery, 702 Soquel Ave. in Santa Cruz RSVP for an information session at www. tinyurl.com/CASAorientation. The deadline to apply for the next training session is Jan. 17. For information, visit www.casaofsantacruz.org or call 761-2956.
Staff report APTOS — Students wanting to attend vocational school or undergraduate study at a college or university can apply for one of the 10 scholarships started by donors at the Community Foundation. Award amounts range from $750 to $2,400, with some renewable for multiple years. The scholarships can be used toward tuition, fees, books, supplies, required equipment, room and board and other allowable expenses. The award recipients are selected by a scholarship committee and approved by the board of directors. The program is administered by Scholarship America. The deadline to submit a scholarship application for the 2017-2018 academic year is Feb. 3. For information, visit www.cfscc.org/ Scholarships or call 662-2071.
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LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 5
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
GIFT GIVING
SHAKESPEARE
County leader honored
Project raises more than 3,000 donations for homeless shelters
Saturday Shakespeare Club set to begin
Staff report SANTA CRUZ — Santa Cruz County Administrative Officer Susan Mauriello was honored recently with the second annual Distinguished Service Award by the County Administrative Officers Association of California. The award honors statewide leadership at the county executive level, and recognizes mentorship, ethics, innovation and effectiveness on behalf of county residents. The award was presented at the California State Association of Counties’ annual meeting in Palm Springs. “I am humbled to receive this award from my peers,” Mauriello said. “This represents an endorsement of the hard work and dedication of the Board of Supervisors and all county employees toward making Santa Cruz County a great place to live, work and play.” At 27 years, Mauriello is the longest-serving county administrative officer in California. She was appointed one month before the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake, and has guided the county through earthquake recovery, numerous storms and fires and the Great Recession. Mauriello has served on behalf of the governor of the Board of State and Community Corrections, served on the boards of various nonprofit and civic groups and mentored new CAOs through her active participation in CAOAC. During her tenure, the county’s annual budget has grown from $178 million to more than $700 million. She has overseen the development of dozens of new county parks and facilities, including the Simpkins Family Swim Center and Public Safety Center. She has also increased county reserves, increased participation in public benefit programs, raised the county’s environmental profile and created an Economic Development Division while navigating unfunded mandates, budget shortfalls, public safety realignment and the loss of redevelopment agencies.
Art prints, books and rare Shakespeare oddities crowd the shelves at the Shakespeare Society of America in Moss Landing. File photo by Tarmo Hannula
Mariah Tanner (left) and Natalie Oliver were able to raise more than 3,000 amenities for the homeless through their “Re-Gift the Gift of Gift Giving” project. Contributed photo
Staff report SANTA CRUZ — Two close friends and nonprofit professionals in Santa Cruz County were able to raise more than 3,000 donations for the homeless. Now in its second year, Natalie Oliver’s and Mariah Tanner’s “Re-Gift the Gift of Gift Giving” raised gloves, blankets, socks, sleeping bags, toiletries and more, which were donated to the Homeless Services Center and the River Street Shelter on the morning of Christmas Eve.
Staff report APTOS — The Saturday Shakespeare Club begins the year with a five-week examination of “Cymbeline,” one of the Bard’s later works, beginning Saturday, Jan. 14 at Christ Lutheran Church, 10707 Soquel Drive in Aptos. UCSC Literature Professor Emeritus Michael Warren will give an overview of the play starting at 10 a.m. for the first half of the two-hour session, and selected club members will read aloud the acts under consideration during the second half. Scheduled to address the group at 10 a.m. the following Saturday, Jan. 21, is Mike Ryan, Santa Cruz Shakespeare artistic director, who will also talk about the local theater company’s productions. Other speakers have yet to be chosen. For information, call 462-5767 or email saturdayshakespeare@gmail.com.
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.
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JANUARY 2017
6 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
History Corner
Continued from page 1
the switchboard “operator.” When you wanted to make a call, you cranked the phone which rang the operator and they would plug you in to the correct outgoing line. Most people in the early days shared the same phone line with their neighbors which was called a party line. In the early years, there might be 12 to 13 families on one phone line. Each home would crank a different number of rings for the operator and vice versa. You were not guaranteed any privacy as anyone on the party line could pick up their receiver and listen to your phone call. People could pay for a private line but most could not afford them. The Aptos Cash Store had the first telephone exchange in Aptos. The building was built before the turn of the last century by James Leonard and is now occupied by Café Sparrow. The building was purchased from Leonard by John James Verhoeff and Willem (Bill) Verhoeff. If you wanted to make a call you could go into the exchange and pay to use the phone. There are records of calls being made in Aptos as early as 1911. In addition to being the storekeeper and Postmaster, Bill operated the tiny switch board during business hours, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Verhoeffs ran the store until 1922 when it was sold to Cornelius van Kaathoven. At that time, Aptos had a total of eight telephones. According to an article written by Vincent Leonard, Mr. Van, as he was known, ran the telephone exchange for another seven years until in 1929. Pacific Telephone and Telegraph opened its first exchange at 8061 Valencia St. in the Hihn subdivision. However, Vonnie Davis Watters of Watsonville said that her family ran the switchboard starting in 1924. According to Vonnie, her mother and father, Emily and Fred Davis and their seven children (eventually nine) arrived in Aptos in 1924 and at that time, the switchboard was located in a small building next to a restaurant. Both buildings were owned by Paul Johnson, one of Aptos’ more famous citizens. You will hear his name often in my
tales about our town. Paul asked the Davis family to move into living quarters next to the restaurant so that they could run the restaurant and man the switchboard. The small building with the switchboard and the restaurant building no longer exist as they were destroyed in the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. Many people will remember the small building as a barbershop before the earthquake. Vonnie said that Pacific Telephone and Telegraph moved the switchboard to Valencia Street in 1926. That building still exists and is called Somerset House, currently home to Hopscotch children’s clothing store. On July 1, the Davis family moved in. The front room contained the switchboard, circuits, batteries and a telephone booth. Eventually, a generator replaced the batteries, more switchboards were added and the phone booth was moved outside. Vonnie said that during electrical storms, the lighting was attracted to the electrical cables and the circuits would flare up, yikes! From 1926 until the mid-1930s there was no night service at all. Day and evening service were provided by Emily and her three older daughters. As needs grew operators were hired for the day and evening service and Emily would provide night time service between 11 p.m. and 8 a.m. Emily slept in the next room and would sleep until the bell rang and then answer the calls. The older Davis children filled in after school and as they grew up the younger children took their place. The girls had to take turns on who got to go on a date and who got to go to church. Long distance calls were handled through the Santa Cruz office. There were three or four lines to Santa Cruz and two lines to Watsonville. There was also three or four lines to the Rio del Mar Country Club hotel which had their own PBX (private branch exchange) to route calls inside the hotel. Their telephone number was 80. Telephone installations, removals and
Aptos Cash Store about 1900. Notice bell telephone sign behind rider. Laurie Moreno photo.
repairs were also handled through the Santa Cruz office. All of the equipment including switchboards and telephones were manufactured and owned by Western Electric. If you had problems with your phone they would fix it for free but you did not own the phone. Everyone had the same phones starting with the wooden box hand crank wall phones with the separate earpiece and mouth piece. Next came the standup phones called candlesticks with the little receiver that hung on the side followed by the French styled phone with the mouthpiece and earpiece connected and which sat in a cradle. Telephones were typically available in any color as long as it was black. Pacific Telephone and Telegraph also handled telegrams. They could be delivered by phone, mailed for 10 cents or hand delivered for $1. Call forwarding was also invented in the early days. If you were expecting an Switchboard at night in 1931. important call and you would be visiting Aptos History Museum archives someone, you just called the operator and she would connect the incoming call to the through a lot of changes. The origina phone where you would be when it came switchboard was increased to three and through. After World War II, a resident went from one employee to 21. Emily was late leaving to pick up her returning Davis was promoted to manager and Mable husband at Moffat Field so she called Knapp was the assistant manager. Pacific the operator and told her that when her Telephone and Telegraph moved the husband called, to please relay the message telephone operations across the street and that she was on her way. I am sure that the converted to dial up telephones about 1952 switchboard operator new more about the Many thanks to Vonnie Davis Watters for lives of the people in the community than sharing this great story with us. If you like anyone. these stories, please consider becoming a The Aptos telephone exchange went member of the Aptos History Museum.
Telephone exchange 1948. Aptos History Museum archives
appy olidays
JANUARY 2017
Dental disease
LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 7 Continued from page 1
“I am so proud of the work of this committee,” Oral Health Access Steering Committee co-Chair and Dientes Dental Director Dr. Sepi Walthard said. “It will have a long-lasting impact on the oral health, and therefore the overall health, of our entire community.” The plans include an educational campaign encouraging parents to bring their child to the dentist by his or her first tooth or first birthday by 2020. The goal of this effort is to prevent cavities from even starting and to increase dental utilization rates for children ages 0-3 from 43 percent to 60 percent. First 5 Santa Cruz County Executive Director David Brody and Central California Alliance for Health Programs Manager Javier Carrillo will head this portion of the plan. Superintendent of Schools Michael Watkins is behind another goal of the plan, namely to mandate the currently optional kindergarten or first grade dental screenings by 2020.
The third area in the strategic plan is comprised of three components that are under an umbrella of expanding treatment, prevention and clinical capacity by 2020. Dientes Community Dental Care plans to serve an additional 8,000 children, adults and seniors in a new clinic to be built over the next few years. There is also an effort to make the application of fluoride varnish the standard of care at well-child medical visits which will be led by Pediatrician and Pediatric Medical Director at Santa Cruz Community Health Centers, Salem Magarian. “United behind a common goal, we have the ability to dramatically improve the oral health of our most vulnerable Santa Cruz County residents,” said Oral Health Access Steering Committee co-Chair and Santa Cruz County Supervisor Zach Friend. Comments and ideas from the public are welcome and can be shared at SCCHC Pediatric Director Dr. Salem Magarian speaks with Oral Health Access Santa Cruz County co-Chairs Supervisor Zach Friend and Dientes Dental Director oralhealthscc.org/contact.
Cell phone law
Continued from page 1
have them mounted and stationary. “I can’t wait; it is going to make it so much easier to enforce [the law],” CHP officer Trista Drake said. “It really closes the loopholes. [The laws] were so specific, they didn’t take into account apps like Facebook — it made it really hard; you had to cite drivers for things like speeding or distracted driving.” The Department of Transportation reports that at any given moment across America, more than 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or manipulating an electronic device. And, despite existing laws, in California the number of distracted driving collisions went up from 22,306 in 2013 to 22,652 in 2014. “I don’t feel as if I’ve seen a reduction, and it’s difficult to determine when distracted driving is a factor,” she said. “Not many people admit to using their cell phones in a crash — we just don’t know how many stats go unreported.” While off duty, Drake said sometimes she sees as many as one in three people on their phones while driving. On duty, those who immerse themselves in their phones remain oblivious to her presence. Sometimes she will wait, driving or sitting patiently next to the offending driver until they notice before flagging them over, matching their speed for however long. “They lose all scope of reality,” she said. “They are driving blind. What can be so important you have to put lives at risk?” For one person on the freeway, taking their eyes off the road for something as short as five seconds could mean traveling the length of a football field. Reaction times and attention to their driving environment is also dismal with people on cell phones failing to see up to 50 percent of the information. Drivers manipulating cell phones have slower reaction times than drivers with a .08 percent blood alcohol content. “It’s amazing, you don’t put on a
blindfold to drive on the freeway, but that is exactly what it is like,” Drake said. “Anything that takes your attention off the road is not worth it. Just put it away.” And put it away was the exact advice she gave one motorist who was on her phone while stopped at a red light with two children in the back. The interaction was brief, but Drake is hoping that it was also memorable. “Sometimes a lightbulb moment is all you need and you have to think about what you are modeling for your children,” she said. “They are going to grow up doing what you do. I would rather educate people, not go hard right out of the gate.” A written warning later, the mother of two left thankful as Drake advised her, “if it is tempting for you, put it in your purse, your trunk — whatever you got to do.” The reason this newest law is so crucial, according to Drake, is because of the variety of apps available on a phone to distract someone. No longer just texting or talking on the phone, drivers lose themselves on social media apps and games. Drake hopes the beginning fine of $25 (approximately $100 after court and county fees) will help. “You are always going to have some people who just don’t care or don’t realize how dangerous it is,” she said. “But most people don’t want to pay. To have it hurt your wallet is one way to change behavior.” With the expectation that officers will now be able to easily enforce distracted driving laws, at the end of the day, Drake said she feels excited. “We are all about living in the moment. We’re so used to being connected 100 percent of the time, nothing can wait anymore,” she said. “I wouldn’t say we are addicted, but we are getting there. People are so engrossed in technology, and when they use it behind the wheel, sooner or later they will crash.”
Dr. Sepi Walthard. Contributed photo
California Highway Patrol officer Trista Drake issues a written warning to a mother with her two young children in her vehicle for texting and driving in Soquel. The law will stiffen on Jan. 1 regarding cell phone use while behind the wheel. Photo by Tarmo Hannula
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Surfin’ Santa
Exchanging rowing for walking, Santa Claus arrived in style for Capitola’s 26th annual Surfin’ Santa despite weather challenges. Photo by Bek Sabedra
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JANUARY 2017
JANUARY 2017
Mental health stoked by watching people around him struggle with mental health issues. With 25 years of experience behind him, he said he was happy to get back to a job that keeps him around the people he serves. “[They] are often the ones that give us all the inspiration to do better and come up with new and better programs to serve them,” Riera said. “I realize we are not always able to serve everyone the way we would like, but they are of tremendous value. I admire them for their bravery every day for dealing with the struggles that mental illness and substance abuse presents them in their lives. They are really who I work for.” He said he has also learned to listen to them. “One thing I have learned in my career is that if I follow the guidance that I get from the people that we serve, I have never gone wrong,” he said. “I place tremendous value in the input they give me every day.” ••• Services in Watsonville After settling into his position, Riera said his first area of concern was the capacity and quality of service in South County. The building the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services department is based in was unfit for their needs — it was too small, too cramped and according to Riera did not provide a lot of private space for treatment. In September, a project for a new facility was launched to be completed in Watsonville by November 2017. “It’s a big area of need over there that we haven’t been able to necessarily serve well because of those facility and staff limitations,” Riera said. In addition to the new facility, current staffing levels will almost double when faculty will no longer have to travel from Santa Cruz to provide care. Grant money will also allow for additional positions. ••• Trauma informed care Using a grant to begin training all staff in trauma informed care, Riera started a year ago on a goal of training every employee in the health service agency with this model.
LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 9 Continued from page 1
The idea is for employees to be more sensitive and responsive to those with a history of trauma, such as women who have experienced domestic violence. “We have gotten a lot better at identifying it and addressing it,” he said. “I think 10, 20 years ago there were probably equal numbers of people coming in with some history of trauma, but we weren’t doing a good job providing help ... so that has been the focus more recently.” ••• Integrated Behavioral Health Program When the Affordable Care Act expanded Medi-Cal for the community, Riera was able to embed mental health and psychiatrist options in primary care clinics. In a county report on general health, Will Forest and Jessica Oltmanns wrote that in Santa Cruz County persons without insurance were more likely to need help (34.9 percent) versus those currently insured (20.7 percent). “There has always been a significant need for people who have a more mild to moderate mental illness who may not qualify for services with the county,” Riera said. “They typically come to us and say ‘we need services too, we need help as well,’ and ADA gave us that chance.” Fifteen positions were created, and currently 13 are filled with a mixture of psychiatrists, social workers and psychologists. Patients with mental health needs can now be seen in real time and be taken care of in a clinic setting. This is important in a county where a significantly larger percentage of adults reported needing help for emotional/ mental health problems or use of alcohol or drugs, compared to the entire state (22.7 and 15.8 percent, respectively.) While the program expanded to Watsonville, space constraints have made it more difficult. With the new facility they will be able to add eight additional staff members and make the program a similar size to that of Santa Cruz. ••• Law enforcement liaison The program to establish a mental
health liaison with the Sheriff’s Office has become so successful, the county is wanting to expand to include weekend and evening hours. According to Riera, law enforcement agencies are asking for more coverage too, and both parties are looking for ways to support it. Riera was also invited to copresent on the liaison program at a forensic conference in March. “They are considering mandating it as a model program for all law enforcement agencies,” Riera said. “It is something I am particularly proud of.” ••• MOSTT Program Maintaining Ongoing Stability Through Treatment is a program for individuals who have had a lot of contact with law enforcement and also have a serious mental illness. It recently expanded to include behavioral health court — it is implemented in conjunction with probation, public defender’s office, courts and law enforcement. Riera said the program has had some very positive outcomes for the clients. They received a number of state awards and are looking to expand it; currently there are 45 people waiting for services in that program. ••• Expanding substance abuse disorder services A federal waiver program expands substance abuse disorder services for people with Medi-Cal. Currently, Santa Cruz County serves about 1,500 people a year and Riera is looking to double that number. The county is building for additional capacity, adding residential beds, outpatient providers and a new service case management for substance abuse disorders that was not a Medi-Cal reimbursable service in the past. “Our goal is to offer treatment on demand,” Riera said. “When we have someone who is ready and they’re willing to accept treatment we want to be able to
offer those services on that day and not have them wait.” For the people forced to wait for services until a bed opens up or a provider has a spot for them, often by then, he said they may have changed their mind or circumstances changed and employees are not able to engage them. Riera says he hopes to roll out the program and services beginning April 1, and by the end of the next fiscal year be fully operational. ••• Supportive housing program A proposal to the state to create a new supportive housing program in the community through innovative projects is expected to be successful. Targeting people who have a serious mental illness but also co-occuring health condition that goes with it, the program combines a use of peer counselors, family members and remote telehealth devices placed in the apartment or home. “Our adult population has a 25year shorter life span than the general population,” he said. “They often struggle with these very serious other health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, hypertension — problems that shorten their life.” The device helps monitor their health status, prompts them to enter in their blood pressure, weight and glucose, and the information goes to a nurse who will monitor it daily. If results indicate they need to see a primary health care provider, an appointment is made for them. The program will serve about 60 people per year and provide them housing. “Pilot studies looking at the use of these devices have had promising results not just on the physical health side, but also in mental health,” Riera said. “When we better control physical health conditions, we get better results in terms of mental health stability in the community too.”
thrive
Grow, learn,
Mount Madonna School
Campus Tour – Jan. 11, 9:30am
RSVP 408-847-2717 | MountMadonnaSchool.org Pre/K - 12th grade | CAIS & WASC accredited | Nonsectarian | Bus Transportation 2017 Speaker Series on Education An evening with neuroscientist Mary Helen Immordino-Yang,
for Party Deals!!
Ed.D. speaking about the complex connection between emotion and learning. Feb. 1, 7:00pm, at Cabrillo College.
JANUARY 2017
10 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
Guest Columnist
Disparity in law enforcement By THOMAS STUMBAUGH Not all criminals are cut from the same cloth. Neither are all crimes dealt with in the same manner. For the ordinary Jack and Jill who break the law, we have cops who deal with problems ranging from petty misdemeanors to more serious felonies, including murder. Then we have crimes committed by “corporate persons,” which can also range from petty to serious, including causing the death of human beings. However, the consequences for crimes of corporate persons and humans are vastly different. For example, humans convicted of murder face penalties ranging from long-term incarceration to execution. But there is no such thing as jail time or a death penalty for corporate persons found guilty of homicide. And the degree of corporate crime far out weighs the degree of humans by several hundreds. There was a meeting in May 2016, hosted by the Santa Cruz County Sheriff and some members of the County Board of Supervisors in which we were presented six pillars of 21st Century Policing and a number of recommendations for improving law enforcement and community relations. I wrote then that the task ahead was mountainous. It seems to me that the first,
and most important, job is to rid the ranks of law enforcement of the trigger happy cops who are killing Americans. Twenty-five percent of the people behind bars in the world (nearly 2.5 million) are in U.S. prisons and we are only five percent of the world population. Astounding! There are oil spills, and then there are oil spills. Some years ago, British Petroleum and a couple of other corporations were involved in a huge oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. A drilling rig exploded as a result of negligence and 11 men died. Was anyone even arrested for negligent homicide? Nope! The penalties were paid with cash. There was an oil spill on the Aptos Village Project in May 2016 which was not the result of negligence but rather a deliberate infraction of law when a crew encountered a buried fuel tank. The tank was pulled out of the ground illegally and without a permit. During extraction, the tank was ruptured, spilling diesel fuel and possibly other contaminates. Nobody notified county officials as required before removal of the tank. The tank disappeared from the site that very day and was delivered to a scrap metal processor the next morning, cut in pieces. Where was the monitor who, I
REAL ESTATE
Update
January 2017 Happy New Year! 2016 was quite a year once again proving that “the only constant in life is change”! Locally, Measure D passed in Santa Cruz County allowing for $500 million over 30 years toward traffic relief on Highway 1, safety, pothole repair, and transit improvements; and most importantly, passage of this measure allows for matching funds from the state moving forward. The Aptos Village Plan is moving
along — the Hihn Apple Barn which will ultimately house New Leaf Community Market has been moved and foundation work has begun, and the new traffic improvements including a stop light at Trout Gulch is currently planned to begin in early spring. When completed, this project will provide 69 new homes for our community, as well as a “village square” and small park. Nationally, we elected a new president who will have lots of new ideas including new tax proposals; so far the coveted mortgage loan deduction for primary residence remains intact. Interest rates continue to climb — www.bankrate.com on Christmas Day quotes 4.21 percent for
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thought, was to be on site to prevent this sort of thing? This incident was not handled in the manner as say, a robbery would have been. Police were not called to the scene. County officials issued a permit one week later, three days after the tank had been scrapped. Work on the project came to a halt while soil testing was done and, supposedly, all the contaminated soil was hauled away. Work on the project was delayed more than two months. County officials were dealing with the legal consequences of the incident administratively. Nobody was arrested, even though multiple laws were broken. I learned several days ago that the county had arrived at an administrative settlement and imposed a fine of $9,900. So is this the end of it, or is there more to come? Should there be further testing done to assure that all danger of contamination of the aquifer upon which we depend on for our own portable water has been addressed? This is a question for which the people should demand, and be given an answer. I read an article recently titled “From warriors to guardians.” I wondered at the word “warriors.” Do police think themselves as warriors? If so, could it come from the creeping militarization of
law enforcement? Which I would say is one problem that should be minimized or eliminated. What happened to the slogan we once saw on police vehicles, “protect and serve?” I’ve been looking for it recently but have not seen it. Generally speaking, I have a lot of respect for those willing to put themselves on the front lines in crime prevention. But it’s obvious that not all of them are so admirable. I have reservations about Sheriff Hart who has expressed opinions as to whether the law should always be observed and enforced. I refer to what I have read in the press about Privates Beach in Opal Cliffs. Apparently, he approves of fees charged to access the beach, which is public property, and the nine-foot fence designed to keep out the “riff raff” (to quote a local person). The access route is through a public park on a lot which, for some reason was never sold to a home builder. The fees and the fence would be acceptable if there were facilities, such as restrooms, and a uniformed public employee at the gate. It is, after all, a public park and should be managed by the County Parks Department. ••• Thomas Stumbaugh is a resident of Aptos. His opinions are his own and not necessarily those of Life.
By RUTH BATES
Broker Associate & MBA
30-year fixed, and the Fed’s Janet Yellen stated on Dec. 2 that “a rate increase could well become appropriate relatively soon.” This year in Aptos (through Dec. 25) only 251 single family homes, 49 condos and 38 townhomes were sold, totaling 338. In 2015, 328 single family homes, 48 condos, and 60 townhomes were sold, totaling 436. So 2016 was only 78 percent the volume of 2015. Hence, it really was a “Seller’s Market” all year long. Low inventory, multiple offers, and homes selling for above list price was common, and home values continued to rise. The Median Sales Price for a single family home in Aptos in 2016 rose to $874,500 from $830,000 in 2015, a 5 percent
increase. Condo median was $519,500 and townhome median was $620,000. Recent Silicon Valley articles cite “cracks in the market” and “leveling of the market.” In November 2016, Santa Clara County residents approved a $950 million bond to build affordable housing. This past year rent control measures were passed in Oakland, Richmond and Mountain View but failed in Alameda and San Mateo. Affordability is a real issue and one that we as a community must continue to consider. I am, as always, optimistic about the future — I’m just not at all sure how it will all unfold. Stay tuned and Happy New Year to all!
JANUARY 2017
LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 11
Ten tips for positive parenting
Financial Advice
Life insurance
By GARY E. CROXALL, CFP® and SOREN E. CROXALL, CFP® Mortality is a subject that most people avoid at all costs. Perhaps that’s why there is a gap between Americans that think life insurance is a necessity and those that actually have it. Death is something no one likes talking about. Others think that life insurance is too expensive or that they are adequately covered through their employer provided coverage. An “insurance analysis” is an important part of a financial plan. In this article, we discuss some of the misconceptions regarding life insurance. Misconception #1 — I Don’t Need Life Insurance For some people, that may be true — they truly do not have a need for life insurance. Maybe they are young, single, with no outstanding liabilities. Others may
have accumulated enough assets that they are able to “self-insure.” These may not be the best candidates for life insurance. However, as life progresses, most people will likely need life insurance at some point. Are you the primary breadwinner in your family? Do you have a mortgage or have you co-signed on any loans? Are you a business owner? Are you a stay at home parent? Are you concerned about estate taxes? The list goes on. Everyone’s needs are different, but life insurance can be useful in a lot of different situations and solve various financial needs. Misconception #2 — I Cannot Afford Life Insurance Term insurance or permanent insurance? Understanding the different types and costs of life insurance programs can be confusing and filled with industry jargon. That’s why working with a qualified professional is important. They can discuss the pros and cons of various types of life insurance programs and find a policy that suits your personal needs and fits your budget. One of the biggest questions we encounter is: How much life insurance do I need? The answer is not an easy one
because figuring out your life insurance needs can be highly subjective and can be very emotional for many people. So developing an objective “needs analysis” is the best place to start in determining how much and what kind of policy is suitable for you. Misconception #3 — I Have Adequate Coverage Through Work Insurance coverage through work is a great benefit, and most large employers usually offer some sort of group life insurance coverage to eligible employees. Often these policies are 1x salary or maybe a little more and generally do not require employees to be approved for coverage as they would need to be if they bought their own individual policy. The problem with group coverage is twofold: 1. Coverage provided through employers is usually not enough to meet most people’s needs. 2. Group coverage generally is not portable. So if you leave your job, you generally leave behind the life insurance benefit that came with it. From a financial planning point of view, life insurance is a vehicle that can be a potential solution for a number of needs: Replacing income; accumulating for the
future; paying off debt; funding future education needs; providing for a long-term care element in some policies; ensuring the continuation of a business. Not everyone has the same needs, and in some cases there is no need at all. We believe that doing an objective analysis is the only way to get a clear answer to what is right for you. 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.
JANUARY 2017
12 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
SPORTS
WITH
TONY NUNEZ
Monterey Bay League accepts Aptos football for ‘17 season By TONY NUNEZ Aptos High football has a home. The Monterey Bay League’s Board of Managers voted to allow the Mariners into the league for the 2017 season, league commissioner Tim McCarthy announced Dec. 16. Aptos, whose six-year dominance of the Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League ultimately led to the league’s demise for football, will be tacked on to the MBL’s upper division. In the Gabilan, it will play 11-time Central Coast Section champ Palma High as well as massive schools San Benito High and Salinas High. Fellow Santa Cruz County school Monte Vista Christian will also be on the Mariners’ league slate next season along with Seaside High, North Salinas High and Alvarez High. The Pacific division will remain the same, including: Watsonville High, Pajaro Valley High, North Monterey County High, Christopher High, Gilroy High, Monterey High and Alisal High. McCarthy said the addition of Aptos is good for the league. “It makes it a stronger league,” McCarthy said. “The program is an MBLGabilan type of program. They’re stable. They’re competitive. We’re happy to have them.” The move comes just two days after the Mission Trail Athletic League decided to bring on the six other former SCCAL football programs — St. Francis High, Harbor High, Santa Cruz High, Soquel High, Scotts Valley High and San Lorenzo Valley High — and form a two-tiered, “BC” league. The decision also came just 11 days after the SCCAL coaches’ 4-2 vote to disband for football. The SCCAL Board of Managers made the disbandment official on Dec. 13. McCarthy, who also serves as the commissioner of the MTAL, said the timing and the speed of the move is unheard of. “This is very unusual,” McCarthy said. “I don’t know if it’s ever happened like that. It wasn’t a realignment year and it happened so fast. I know that since I’ve been here it’s never happened like this... Even when the SCCAL teams from water
APTOS SCHEDULE Boys Varsity Basketball January 3 @ Scotts Valley HS January 5 vs. Santa Cruz HS January 12 vs. San Lorenzo Valley HS January 14 @ Harbor HS January 18 vs Soquel HS January 20 @ Saint Francis HS January 24 vs Scotts Valley HS January 26 @ Santa Cruz HS
polo came over to the equity, it didn’t go this fast. It took longer than two weeks.” Palma head coach Jeff Carnazzo said he appreciated how quickly the process went, especially since his program is scrambling to fill its preseason schedule now that the Chieftains are playing Aptos in league as opposed to the preseason. “It’s tough to find games at this time of the year,” Carnazzo said. “The only fear I have is that we’ll have to travel far because that will cost a lot of money.” The Mariners will hit the road plenty next season. Aptos head coach Randy Blankenship said they will play Aragon High for the second straight season and have tentative agreements with Placer High and Templeton High. Aptos had to give up a preseason meeting with CCS power Oak Grove High because of their seven-game league schedule. “They understood,” Blankenship said. “That would’ve been a fun one.” There could be even more movement before the start of the 2018 school year, as all sports will be up for realignment. McCarthy said the MBL and MTAL are in talks to join forces in all sports for the 2018 season and beyond. Whether that will happen or not must be decided before a CCS meeting on Jan. 19. “And it will,” McCarthy said. McCarthy, however, added that the SCCAL has not given any indication that it wants to merge with either league for all sports in 2018. “It would be welcomed,” McCarthy said, “but I don’t know what their thinking is on the situation.” Although the Mariners will lose their rivalry game against Scotts Valley, they will have a chance to foster a new one and bring one back from the dead in the MBL. Aptos will play MVC in a long-awaited meeting between the two county schools, which last played in the ‘90s. Blankenship said he has tried to schedule MVC in the past but it has never worked out for either team. “It’s gonna work out next year, though,” Blankenship said. “I think our kids are going to be excited to compete in that game.” The Black and Blue Bowl between Aptos and Watsonville could also make a return if the Wildcatz earn their way into
Aptos High running back Jack Wolf (20) crashes into Palma High linebacker Michael Zaragoza (43) during their preseason football game on Sept. 16. Aptos and Palma’s meeting next season will be a Monterey Bay League Gabilan division game, following the decision to allow Aptos into the MBL. File photo by Tony Nunez
the upper division. The two Pajaro Valley Unified School District members played the rivalry game in every year since 1969 — save 1983 — before it was discontinued after the 2014 season because of several one-side results in favor of Aptos. The level of competition will be ratcheted way up for all teams in the MBL-G next season. The addition of Aptos means the league’s upper division will feature six playoff teams and three that made it to at least the semifinal round of their respective
bracket, including CCS Division III finalist and NorCal playoff qualifier Palma. Carnazzo said his team, which has won the MBL-G five years running, will be happy for the challenge. “All you have to do is look at the West Catholic,” Carnazzo said. “It raises the level of play of the entire league. It helps your team get ready for playoffs. It makes us better.”
All home games take place at Aptos High School, 100 Mariner Way Girls Varsity Basketball January 3 @ Scotts Valley HS January 5 vs. Santa Cruz HS January 12 vs. San Lorenzo Valley HS January 14 @ Harbor HS January 18 vs Soquel HS January 20 @ Saint Francis Coacst Catholic HS January 24 vs Scotts Valley HS January 26 @ Santa Cruz HS
Girls Varsity Soccer January 5 vs Harbor HS January 10 @ Soquel HS January 12 vs St. Francis Central Coast Catholic HS January 17 @ Santa Cruz HS January 19 vs SLV HS January 24 @ Scotts Valley HS January 31 @ Harbor HS
January 2017 Boys Varsity Soccer January 20 vs SLV HS January 25 @ Scotts Valley HS
JANUARY 2017
LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 13
Ice cream gets wavy Off the Block Snow Cream & Bubble Tea offers a local twist on favorite treat By BEK SABEDRA CAPITOLA — Shaye Carter learned about Taiwanese shaved snow through the family business in Sacramento — it’s like ice cream, with a twist. But when he decided he wanted to branch out and start his own shop, his love for the area drew him to Capitola. “My family made [a shop] out by Sacramento, and that was where I got the idea to tweak it and make it my own,” he said. “I fell in love with this spot in Capitola. This was the first place I went to, and I was in love.” Carter secured the lease in February, and opened Off the Block Snow Cream & Bubble Tea by the end of October. On Dec. 9, he held a ribbon cutting and grand opening. The snow cream itself is made entirely in house. But instead of the traditional Taiwanese use of non-dairy creamer for snow cream, Carter uses whole milk. “I have seen snow cream in places like New York, Los Angeles,” he said. “I wanted mine to be more natural, so we use organic whole milk.” The reason for non-dairy creamer,
SOQUEL SCHEDULE Girls Basketball January 4 vs SLV HS January 6 @ Harbor HS January 9 vs Scotts Valley HS January 11 @ Saint Francis HS January 13 vs Santa Cruz HS January 18 @ Aptos HS January 25 @ SLV HS January 27 vs Harbor HS January 30 @ Scotts Valley HS
according to Carter, is the lactose intolerance prevalent in Asian populations. Because of this, he also has two lactosefree options using almond or coconut milk. But beyond an unusual method of making and serving the dairy treat, Carter also wanted to create a focus on local nonprofits. Each item sold results in a 25-cent donation to local nonprofits, and on the wall, three change collectors rest underneath descriptions of the nonprofits the funds will benefit. “The donation aspect, the giving, it’s based on the idea that giving overcomes everything,” Carter said. “It works as a bridge. We want people to know the treats are a vessel to move and give back to the Owner Shaye Carter is hands-on in making the Taiwanese-based treat now available in Capitola. Photo by Bek Sabedra community.” So far, he said the community has been Referring to the moment he puts a solid But for now, the focus is on growing more than welcoming, children and adults block of snow cream into a machine and what he has started. alike. “This is definitely my baby, my prototype “I became very intrigued when I saw then turns out waves of shaved cream, what snow cream looked like — trippy Carter said “People, especially kids, like for bridging product and donation,” he and weird,” Sheryl Max, a customer, said. watching it happen. They really get a kick said. “It has all my effort, all my heart and my first priority is getting it rocking and “Instantly, I wanted to try it. I thought it out it, and the color changing spoons.” To help him, Carter has six employees I’ll go from there.” was super great. [The nonprofits] were the and said he has dreams of expanding. ••• other thing that caught my attention before “I would like other locations down the Off the Block is located at 115 San Jose trying it that made me want to visit the road,” he said. “I’d like to stay towards the Ave., Suite Q in Capitola. place.” water in beach towns.” All home games take place at Soquel High School, 401 Soquel San Jose Rd. Boys Basketball January 4 TBA January 6 TBA January 9 TBA January 13 TBA January 18 TBA January 25 TBA January 27 TBA January 30 TBA
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Boys Soccer January 4 vs SLV HS January 6 @ Scotts Valley HS January 11 vs Aptos HS January 13 @ Harbor HS January 20 vs Saint Francis HS January 25 @ Santa Cruz HS January 27 @ SLV HS
January 2017
Girls Soccer January 3 vs SLV HS January 5 @ Scotts Valley HS January 10 vs Aptos HS January 12 @ Harbor HS January 19 vs Saint Francis HS January 24 @ Santa Cruz HS January 26 @ SLV HS January 31 vs Scotts Valley HS
JANUARY 2017
14 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
COMMUNITY CALENDAR Ongoing
p.m. at the City of Capitola Community Room, 420 Capitola Ave.
Suicide Depression Support Group
Jan. 12
This peer support group is for anyone who has experienced suicidal depression. It meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of the month at Soquel Congregational Church, 4951 Soquel Drive. For information, call 566-1191.
Jan. 5 Aptos Chapter - Friends of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries The Friends of the Aptos Library is a chapter of the Friends of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries (FSCPL), a nonprofit organization. The Aptos Friends support the Aptos Library through fundraising and advocacy for the branch. The group solicits recommendations for projects from the Aptos community, from library patrons, and from the Aptos Library staff. The Aptos FSCPL meets monthly on the first Thursday of the month at 5 p.m. at the Aptos Branch, 7695 Soquel Drive.
Jan. 11 Capitola Library workshop The public is invited to a workshop to provide input on the design for Capitola’s future library. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the architect and others on the design team. The input received will be presented to the Capitola City Council on Jan. 26. The workshop will take place at 6:30
Unified Corridor Study Community members are invited to join the beginning of the second phase of the Unified Corridor Study to evaluate transportation options on three parallel transportation routes: Highway 1, Soquel Avenue/Drive and the Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line. A workshop will be held at 6 p.m. at Simpkins Swim Center, 979 17th Ave. in Live Oak. For information, visit sccrtc.org/ projects/multi-modal/unified-corridor-study.
Jan. 13-15 43rd Annual Fungus Fair The annual Fungus Fair returns to the Louden Nelson Center in Santa Cruz. Admission on Friday, Jan. 13 is $5 for all. On Saturday, Jan. 14 and Sunday, Jan. 15 admission is $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and students. Kids under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. For information, visit the Fungus Federation of Santa Cruz’s website at ffsc. us.
Jan. 17 ‘Dine for Dientes’ The Shadowbrook Restaurant, 1750 Wharf Road in Capitola, will host a community night from 5-9 p.m. Diners can choose to donate one-third of all their food and beverage
January 2017 sales (excluding happy hour) to nonprofit Dientes, which provides free dental care for low income, uninsured children. To make “Dine for Dientes” reservations, call 4751511 or visit shadowbrook-capitola.com.
Jan. 19 January Breakfast Meeting The Aptos Chamber of Commerce will hold its monthly meeting from 7:30-9 a.m. at the Best Western Seaclif Inn in Aptos. Second District Supervisor Zach Friend will be in attendance. A breakfast will be provided by the Inn. Admission is$20 for Chamber members and $25 for non-members. For information, call 688-1467.
kicks off at 1 p.m. in an afternoon with Michael Bernard Beckwith. Beckwith will be signing books after the kickoff and will be joined by Inner Light’s founder, Rev. Deborah L. Johnson and the Inner Light Choir. Inner Light Center is located at 5630 Soquel Drive in Soquel. For information, visit www.InnerLightMinistries.com.
Jan. 24 Sons in Retirement luncheon The Sons in Retirement luncheon will be held at Severino’s Bar and Grill at the Secaliff Inn in Aptos at 11:30 a.m. Carlo Sacchino will speak. Contact Jim at 708-4133 for information.
Jan. 21
Jan. 29
Saturday Shakespeare Club
Health & Fitness Week Kickoff
The Saturday Shakespeare Club begins the year with a five-week examination of “Cymbeline,” one of the Bard’s later works, at Christ Lutheran Church, 10707 Soquel Drive in Aptos. UCSC Literature Professor Emeritus Michael Warren will give an overview of the play starting at 10 a.m. for the first half of the two-hour session, and selected club members will read aloud the acts under consideration during the second half. For information, call 462-5767 or email saturdayshakespeare@gmail.com.
The Kick-Off Fair for Santa Cruz Health & Fitness Week will be held from 12-3 p.m. at the Kaiser Permanente Arena, 140 Front St. in Santa Cruz. A $10 week class pass includes admission to the fair. Tickets available at Eventbrite.com. For information, contact the Aptos Chamber at 688-1467.
Inner Light Ministries 20-year anniversary Inner Light Ministries’ year-long celebration
APTOS
SOQUEL
CAPITOLA
JANUARY 2017
LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 15
Lyon
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$
and receive a certificate to have the SAME service done on your next visit for FREE!
THAT MAKES 2 SERVICES FOR 1 LOW PRICE *Offer includes up to 6 quarts conventional motor oil. Valid on most makes and models. Synthetic Oil and Diesel vehicles may be slightly higher. Price does not include sales tax or hazardous removal fees. Offer expires 1/31/17. Must present coupon at time of purchase.
831.722.3522 500 AUTO CENTER DR., WATSONVILLE 95076 WWW.WATSONVILLEGM.COM
Golf Range & Tap House
101 Ranport Road Watsonville, CA
Off HWY 1 at Airport Blvd. http://www.pacificgolfcenters.com/ Best practice facility in the county. Don’t just drive by, stop by and enjoy a cold brew! $5 OFF any purchase excluding alcohol Valid through 6/30/16
Open 7 days a week 7AM-8:30PM
Antiques & Collectibles
New & Vintage Jewelry 1533 Pacific Avenue Santa Cruz, CA 95060 • Open Daily 11–6
(831) 458-9131 We buy single items & estates
Photo by Tarmo HANNULA
Foundation work continues on the former Hihn apple barns in Aptos as part of the Aptos Village Project.
JANUARY 2017
16 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
SHOP WHERE THE CONTRACTORS & GROWERS DO! • Water & Septic Tanks • Water & Sewage Pumps • Drainage Pipe
• Erosion Control • Drip & Sprinkler Systems • Water Systems
• Technically Trained Staff • Case Quantities • Competitive Pricing • Commercial, AG & Residential • Huge Inventory, Best Selection • Friendly & Professional • Big Sizes – Pipe, Fittings & Service Valves
SCOTTS VALLEY SPRINKLER & PIPE SUPPLY 131 WALKER STREET, WATSONVILLE (LOCATED NEXT TO DIXON TIRE) 831-728-0446 OPEN 7 DAYS