Sports Page 12
Capitola Car Show Page 2
APTOS
JULY 2016
SOQUEL
CAPITOLA EVERYTHING APTOS, CAPITOLA & SOQUEL
Vol. 4 No. 12
Voters have their say
HISTORY CORNER By John Hibble Call: 688-1467
Friend, Panetta victorious, Measure Q appears to be rejected
Visit us online: aptoshistory.org Visit the museum:
7605-B Old Dominion Court Aptos, CA
By TODD GUILD
A royal king visits Aptos There are many wonderful stories about the history of our community. Some of them are true, some not-so-much, and some of them just need debunking. One of these stories/myths is about King Kalakaua of Hawaii staying overnight at the Bay View Hotel. Supposedly, His Majesty was coming to visit Claus Spreckels and when the King got off of the train in Aptos, no one was there to greet him so John Daubenbiss of Soquel took the King and his entourage in his buckboard wagon to the Spreckels’ mansion. It is a good story. Some parts are true and some, not-so-much. Let’s start out with how to pronounce the king’s name. The Hawaiian language has basic rules. You say each vowel as you would Please turn to Page 7
A new mural, by San Francisco artist Manuel Cruz,
is shown on the exterior wall of the Capitola Beach Suites in Capitola Village. Photo by Tarmo Hannula
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY — Santa Cruz County voters on June 7 sent several local politicians to the November election, while appearing to narrowly reject a measure that would have funded several repairs, upgrades and replacements at Cabrillo College. Voters, meanwhile, approved a separate measure that will help make repairs and upgrades at 10 county libraries. With the vote count expected to be finalized on June 5, Monterey County Deputy District Attorney Jimmy Panetta secured more than 70 percent of the statewide vote, beating Republican Casey Lucius, who garnered 20 percent. Both will head to the November election under the state’s top-two system. “I am very humbled and honored by the support we received throughout the campaign,” Panetta said. That support, he said, came from a broad range of the community, from the agriculture to the tourism industries, from Democrats to Republicans. “That’s based on people not only knowing the name, but also getting to know me,” he said. Incumbent Santa Cruz County Supervisor Zach Friend trounced his three opponents, Please turn to Page 6
Local ‘Heroes’ honored New skateboard Breakfast recognizes 11 By TARMO HANNULA APTOS — Eleven people were brought to the stage June 17 to be honored and thanked for their outstanding deeds at the American Red Cross 2016 Heroes Breakfast. With hundreds packed into the auditorium at Twin Lakes Church, the individuals were each introduced with a brief video before they were called to the stage to be presented with an award by Michele Averill, CEO of the American Red Cross of the Central Coast.
Lori Butterworth, founder of Jacob’s Heart in Watsonville, was among the large gathering. Photo by Tarmo Hannula
The awardees are:
• Humanitarian Adult Hero: Dick Peixoto of Watsonville. Over the years Peixoto, owner of Lakeside Organic Gardens, and his wife, Marisela, have contributed millions of dollars to local education and charity groups on a regular basis. Dick and Marisela Peixoto typically walk into organizations such as Toys for Tots, Jacob’s Heart, or Second Harvest Food Bank, avoiding grandstanding and the spotlight, and quietly hand over checks for $5,000, $10,000, $20,000 and more. • Act of Courage: Zachariah Clayman of Aptos. Clayman, 17, helped save a man who had crashed his vehicle on Larkin Valley Road. The driver, George Garcia, had suffered extensive injuries and lay undiscovered for 17 hours before Clayman discovered the crash site. • Animal Rescue Hero: Summer Emmons of Monterey. Emmons is a volunteer at the SPCA and pours hours into helping animals. Her main devotion is fostering specially trained service dogs with insulin diabetic clients. • Clara Barton Volunteer Hero: Mary Cortani of Gilroy. Cortani works with American combat veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder by using trained dogs through the organization, Operation Please turn to Page 7
park, dog park opens in Capitola 2nd skateboard park approved By TARMO HANNULA CAPITOLA — The Capitola City Council approved a new 6,000-square-foot skateboard park to be built in Monterey Park on Monterey Avenue late June 23. The vote comes just weeks after the Monte Family Skateboard Park on McGregor Drive opened in early June.
Rich Grunow, community development director, said the 2-1 vote of approval came only after several changes were put forth including reducing the overall footprint from 6,800 square feet to 6,000 square feet. “They also agreed to reduce the size of the bowl from a depth of 6 Please turn to Page 6
Guest columns... Croxall Capital Planning
10
Ask Nicole
10
Zach Friend
11
Ruth Bates
11
Inside ...
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July 2016
2 - LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
Annual car show shares love of cars with locals
A group of women pose in the trunk of one of the cars on display during the Rods and Custom Car Show in Capitola. Photo by Bek Phillips
By BEK PHILLIPS
The custom paint jobs on some of the cars were worth $50,000. Photo by Bek Phillips
Publisher - John Bartlett General Manager - Amy Bartlett Editor - Erik Chalhoub Editorial Todd Guild, Tony Nuñez, Tarmo Hannula, Bek Phillips
Photography - Tarmo Hannula Advertising Sales
These “cartoonish” wheels were painted to help perpetuate the tradition of showing and restoring cars in young children. Photo by Bek Phillips
Tina Chavez, Allison Stenberg, Mark Pezzini, Adriana Novack, Veronica Iniguez
Production - Daryl Nelson Design - Mike Lyon Life in Aptos, Capitola and Soquel is published monthly. All rights reserved, material may not be reprinted without written consent from the publisher. Life in Aptos, Capitola and Soquel made every effort to maintain the accuracy of information presented in this publication, but assumes no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions. Life in Aptos, Capitola and Soquel is a division of the Register-Pajaronian. Publishing in Santa Cruz County since 1894.
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CAPITOLA — For two days during the summer, the Capitola Esplanade is transformed to showcase unique and custom hot rods and classic cars. For two days children ooh and ahh — little hands clutched tightly in their parent’s to prevent disaster. Traffic gets shut down, and car owners proudly display their prized possessions and refer them to plaques put out with individual histories. June 4-5 marked the 12th year that the annual Rod and Custom Classic Car show was held. “I want to drum up interest in younger kids so the tradition can continue,” car owner and contestant Bob Turner said. His car, a 1937 Ford Coup with three windows is a car meant to be driven. With an LS6 Corvette motor and 520 horsepower, it fulfills his desire to have something “one of a kind with a lot of performance.” The eye candy are the wheels: custom built out of aluminum but painted to look like steel. But beyond showing the car, it is about generating interest in a decaying hobby. “It’s all old guys like me,” Turner said of car enthusiasts. “If you get kids into it, it perpetuates the tradition. It is a great hobby that gets fathers and sons together where they might not otherwise.” Which is why he decided the way he did when it came to the color scheme for his car. “It’s kinda cartoonish,” he said. Turner was not the only one who arrived focused on the children, not the prize. The Rambling Rose is a car “loved by all girls,” according to owner Ross Fokes. “The thing is, I like to let little girls get behind the wheel,” Fokes said. “The little kids, they just love the car — girls and boys.”
A volunteer for Children’s Hospice, Fokes gets plenty of attention for his pearly pink and white ‘55 Ford Skyliner. When he is not showing it to allow children to climb in for pictures, he is using the car to drive sick children to their doctor appointments. “They get a thrill when I take them to get their treatment,” Fokes said. The all original car, painted in tropical rose and snowshoe white, contains an original 272 wide block engine. “It’s a lot of fun, and it is very, very rare,” Fokes said. “As many fingers are on one hand are in California.” Of his model, only 1,999 were ever made — and only 182 were fully loaded with air-conditioning. And his is one. But while he said he has been coming to shows for many years, Fokes said the family-friendly atmosphere makes Capitola special. “The people are your reward — I’m not here for the trophy,” he said. “When you have a kid come up and tell you this is his favorite car in the whole show ... No reward could beat that.” The car show itself is a fundraiser for Capitola Public Safety with the funds going to the junior lifeguard program, the police department and other local charities. Her fifth year volunteering to host the merchandise booth, Anna Marie Gotti said she volunteers to give back to the community. “I am very, very lucky in a number of ways,” she said. With energy an alacrity, she seems to be in several places at one. Everyone she serves is greeted with a smile. “I want to give back to the community and I am good at it — I mean look at me,” Gotti said, grinning. More than introducing children to the art of custom and classic cars, Gotti said it provides something special for adults as well. “You got these beautiful gleaming cars and people walking by reminiscing times gone by,” she said. “It’s a time where we share our memories.” Of course, with the cars being the main attraction, several people are there just to appreciate the art and time it takes to present them in show shape. “This is art, this is sculpture,” Board Member David Peyton said. “Some of the paint jobs can cost $50,000. Our passion is to let people show their passion.” The event is put on and organized strictly by volunteers, and every year is a little different. “It has the reputation of being the one of the best,” Peyton said. “It is a very special event. We all live here and are trying to make Capitola a better place.” As far as the show being one of the best, the participants would seem to agree. “More car shows should take their lead,” Fokes said.
July 2016
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Vaudeville, burlesque reappear on Cabrillo Stage Celebrating 35-year anniversary By BEK PHILLIPS APTOS — Cabrillo Stage returns with two of its first productions in celebration of its 35th anniversary. “Chicago” and “Fiddler on the Roof” have been slated for the summer season with “Chicago” having opened on June 23. The traditional Broadway style entertainment is meant to “dazzle” audiences, with tricks and surprises meant to put the show ahead of the curve. “’Chicago’ has been done a lot,” Director Janie Scott said. “People are familiar with the name and they have an expectation especially if they have ever seen a current revival in New York that has been running for decades.” Scott, now retired from San Jose State University, has taught a wide range of coursework covering the areas of dance and musical theater history, music theory, jazz dance technique, dance pedagogy, dance appreciation, and musical theater performance. Harkening back to the original Bob Fosse version of “Chicago,” in her rendition, Scott promised to provide the audiences with things they have never seen before. “The original version created in the era of prohibition and the jazz era is a story based on the concept of idea of criminal celebrity,” Scott said. “Which rings true today.” With a piece that has garnered attention and renown in the Broadway world for decades, she said that she has worked to maintain the feel for the era while still integrating new and never-seen-before tricks. “In the original production, because the score is written to embrace the vaudeville burlesque era of that time period, I really wanted to make sure that we had that,” Scott said. “Not only musically is it written to do that, but stylistically how it is presented — the choreography and
Actors for Cabrillo Stage practice a musical number with choreography before “Chicago’s” opening night. Photo by Bek Phillips
the staging and all the different elements are based on things that you would have seen in a vaudeville burlesque show of the 1920s. There’s a texture and a feel that keeps it firmly rooted in that as opposed to something that is slick and contemporary.” Actress Danielle Williams, who plays as Roxie Hart, said that while her murderous character can be hard to relate to it is a role she has always aspired to play. Getting ready and putting on the makeup to create the pin curls and makeup for the era can take time, as Williams has learned. “If I were doing the full face, it takes somewhere from 45 minutes to an hour to do makeup,” she said. “It usually takes
20 to 40 minutes to put my hair up in pin curls.” As for her character, in a prison filled with murderous, sometimes fame-seeking women, their seedy lives can make it difficult to relate to. “Roxie, she likes to play innocent but she uses it to manipulate the men around her,” Williams said. “Roxie is a hard one to relate to, it is almost as if you don’t want to relate to her.” Both “Chicago” and “Fiddler on the Roof” are being performed in Crocker Theater, and on June 26 at 5 p.m. Cabrillo Stage held a combined opening company party and 35th anniversary celebration that was open to the public. As far as the
first show of the summer goes, Scott said they will be introducing classical and new elements in her rendition. “You are going to see some things you have never seen in a production of ‘Chicago’ that will absolutely knock your socks off,” Scott said. Online, in-person ticket sales and subscription packages are available. Cabrillo Stage offers subscription packages, individual and group ticket rates as well as special children’s presentations. Tickets are on sale now. For information, visit cabrillostage.com or call 479-6154.
She Wore Blue Velvet Soft, rich blue velvet. It was the fabric of my mother’s favorite suit. She made it herself in the late 50’s after saving for months to buy the fabric on her file clerk salary. But she only wore her velvet suit on special days—Sundays and holidays. Each year, all the way through high school, she would make a special dress for me too. And after fitting it perfectly, she delivered the same loving advice, “Stand tall”. Now, mom doesn’t remember that advice. In fact, she struggles to get my name right and is losing the ability to button her coats. She can still hum the music of those days because that’s how Alzheimer’s works. It steals memories of many of our favorite people, but memories of music often remain. Our family juggles her daily needs, but we are now at the point where 24-hour care is needed. And we need to care for our children too. When memory loss caused by aging and dementia progress and the needs of your loved one demand more time from you, it can be a very difficult challenge. That’s when you may consider a visit to Áegis Living. We are a trusted source for senior living. From transitional care to memory care, our specially trained, dedicated staff serve our residents within a vibrant comfortable home. We’re here to help. Call for lunch and a tour!
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July 2016
4 - LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
CAPITOLA MUSEUM
BIRDING FESTIVAL
FOURTH OF JULY
County, city join forces for Fourth of July ad campaign Staff report
Historian Frank Perry talks about the latest exhibit of photos at the Capitola Historical Museum by Swedish photographer Ole Ravnos. Photo by Tarmo Hannula
Rusty Scalf heads up a field trip for beginning birders at Moss Landing as part of the Monterey Bay Birding Festival in 2015. File photo by Tarmo Hannula
Museum celebrates 50th anniversary
Birding Festival seeks volunteers
Staff report CAPITOLA — The Capitola Historical Museum, 410 Capitola Ave., will celebrate its 50th anniversary on July 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. “This is a wonderful opportunity to look back at the first half century and acknowledge the many donors, volunteers and others who have helped the museum preserve our local history,” said Curator Frank Perry. There will be outdoor displays, activities for kids, souvenirs and refreshments. Former director Carolyn Swift will share reminiscences at 11 a.m. followed by a cake cutting at 11:30 a.m. For information, visit www.cityofcapitola.org/ capitola-museum.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY — With the Fourth of July holiday approaching, the County of Santa Cruz and the City of Santa Cruz want to educate visitors and local residents about the risks — and potential penalties — posed by illegal fireworks. Under the direction of the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors, the County and City are launching an bilingual ad campaign aimed at making people aware that fireworks are illegal in most parts of the county, including on all beaches. Illegal fireworks can lead to fines of up to $1,000, according to the county. “While fireworks are an American tradition, public safety personnel and emergency room doctors are all too familiar with fireworks-related injuries, and fireworks can also lead to fires and other consequences. We welcome people coming here to celebrate Independence Day, but want them to know that for everyone’s safety, fireworks are best left at home,” Santa Cruz County Supervisor Zach Friend said. The ads will begin running on television, local radio (including English- and Spanish-language channels) and on the Internet up to two weeks prior to July 4. They include a mix of 15- and 30-second spots, targeting a range of demographic groups. All fireworks are illegal in unincorporated Santa Cruz County, as well as the cities of Santa Cruz and Scotts Valley. Safe and sane fireworks are allowed in limited circumstances in Watsonville and Capitola. Fireworks are banned on all California State Parks beaches. Fines vary by jurisdiction, with the county issuing $1,000 fines around the 4th of July holiday and the City issuing triple fines for fireworks violations.
Staff report WATSONVILLE — The Monterey Bay Birding Festival is seeking volunteers for the annual festival taking place Sept. 23-25. No birding experience is necessary. Volunteers must be 18 or older, and most shifts will be two hours. Volunteer opportunities include pre-festival support, participant packet prep, set-up, food prep and more. Volunteers will receive free participation in selected festival events which don’t conflict with their volunteer schedule, and free snacks and drinks while on duty. To sign up, visit montereybaybirding.org/volunteers or call (888) 909-7829.
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July 2016
MOLE FESTIVAL
LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel 5
SANTA CRUZ SYMPHONY SYMPHONY LEAGUE
Chefs, vendors sought for Mole and Mariachi Festival Staff report SANTA CRUZ — Chefs, as well as food and craft vendors, are sought for this year’s Mole and Mariachi Festival. The festival is an admission-free, family-friendly event that takes place at the Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park, which marks its 25th anniversary in 2016. The annual festival also highlights the saving of Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park from closure in 2012. The event features local food, beer, wine, live music, dancing, artisan crafts and kids’ activities, in addition to mole tasting featuring sauces made by local chefs rated by festival attendees and a panel of celebrity judges. To take part in this year’s festival, contact Jorge Savala at Jorge@thatsmypark.org or 429-1840, extension 110. For information, visit www.thatsmypark.org/ projects/santa-cruz-mission/mole-and-mariachifestival.
Helen Jones (center) presents check to Owen Brown, president of the Santa Cruz Symphony Board of Directors and Dorothy Wise (right), the executive director of the Santa Cruz Symphony. Contributed photo Nigel Armstrong has been hired as the Santa Cruz Symphony’s new concertmaster. Photo by Jeff Fasano
Santa Cruz Symphony hires new concertmaster Staff report SANTA CRUZ — Santa Cruz Symphony Music Director Daniel Stewart announced that Nigel Armstrong has been hired as the Symphony’s new concertmaster. “I am absolutely thrilled that Nigel accepted my invitation to join the Santa Cruz Symphony’s family as its new concertmaster,” Stewart stated in a press release. “I’m looking forward greatly to making music with the Santa Cruz Symphony,” Armstrong stated in a press release. “It’ll also be a joy to play a role in the Santa Cruz community — I used to come with my grandparents when I was a child and I have many fond memories of this special and beautiful place.”
Symphony League donates $77,300 to Santa Cruz Symphony Contributed article SANTA CRUZ — On June 18, 72 members of the Santa Cruz Symphony League attended the League’s annual meeting at The Mill of Montevalle Park of Scotts Valley. The climax of the meeting was the presentation of a check for $76,300 to the Santa Cruz Symphony; a donation of $1,000 came in that day so the total donation is $77,300. The members attending enjoyed a social time from 2-3:30 p.m., when a barbecue luncheon was served. After lunch, League President Helen Jones introduced the elected board members for the next two fiscal years. If you wish to donate, join the League, attend a special event or get more information, visit www. slscc.org or contact the Membership Chairperson Dan Rutan at 475-4939.
July 2016
6 - LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
Vote Update
Continued from page 1
with more than 72 percent of the vote. Newcomer Becky Steinbruner trailed with nearly 18 percent, followed by Rich McInnis, with just over 9 percent. “The positive results were truly humbling,” Friend said. “I believe they are a reflection of support for moving toward a culture of opportunity for our children and grandchildren — a culture of saying ‘yes’ as opposed to simply saying ‘no’ to everything, even good ideas.” Friend said he hopes to tackle housing issues, now that the election is over. “Without question, we have an extreme housing crisis where our children and grandchildren are being priced out of living here at alarming rates,” Friend said. “I believe addressing the affordable housing issues, improving the job and housing inequity where affordable housing is in one portion of the county with jobs in the other — therefore ensuring long commutes for many — are key.” Measure Q, a $310 million education bond that would fund repairs, upgrades and new projects at Cabrillo College, had only gotten 52 percent of the vote, just short of the 55 percent needed for victory.
Skatepark
Cabrillo College Board of Trustees Chair Gary Reece said that voters sent the college a “two-part” message in their rejection of the measure. “Part one was that the community continues to support Cabrillo and its fine work,” he said. “Part two was that this particular bond was not the one that a supermajority of voters could support.” Reece said that college officials will now evaluate, “the size, nature and duration of a future bond.” Voters gave a thumbs-up to Measure S, a $49.50 parcel tax created to raise $67 million for the Santa Cruz Public Library system. The measure had garnered nearly 70 percent of the vote, over the two-thirds majority needed to pass. The approval means that every branch in the system will be revamped, repaired or rebuilt. “We are so excited,” said Santa Cruz Public Library Interim Executive Director Janis O’Driscoll. “We are doing a dance of joy, and we are grateful for the support of the community.”
Workers in the Santa Cruz County Clerk’s office share the task of auditing precincts at the County Building in Santa Cruz. Photo by Tarmo Hannula
Continued from page 1
feet to 4 feet,” Grunow said. Another change in plans is that no metal can be used in the park, which is a common feature to allow for axle and rail grinds, among other stunts. Grunow said the changes were made to help reduce noise and to make the park more attractive to younger skaters and beginners. Meanwhile, the Monte Family Skateboard Park is soaring in popularity, with its cutting edge pipes, bumps and rails. “It’s a great park,” Dan Stan said. “They did it right. It’s real smooth with a lot of great features. Now, everybody is coming
here.” The 8,500-square-foot park, situated near the entrance to New Brighton State Beach, abuts the new Ozzi’s Dog Park, a fenced-in field that features two separate pens, each with their own watering station. Ozzi is the name of a dog that gained fame in Santa Cruz County. On May 4, 2012, Ozzi, a Cairn terrier, was riding in a milk crate attached to the handlebars of his owner’s bicycle. As Joshua Laven and Ozzi worked their way along Highway 1, north of Santa Cruz, a driver of a Dodge Ram pickup plowed into them, killing Laven and injuring Ozzi. The driver then sped off.
The next morning Joan Leitner and her husband of Capitola came upon the crash site and found the wounded dog and a deceased Laven further up the road. Following an investigation, mountains of paper work, a delay due to soil remediation, fundraising and so on, the 12,500-squarefoot dog park eventually opened in Ozzi’s name. Jennifer Putnam, Laven’s mother, played a key role in raising the $8,000 that was needed to open the park. Leitner and her husband eventually adopted Ozzi with the approval of Joan Laven. The Monte skate park is the second such park to open in the county. Watsonville opened Ramsay Skate Park on May 21.
Joel Guarino said he has visited the Monte Family Skateboard Park several times. “It’s cool. It’s mellow,” he said. “It’s very smooth and flows nicely. There are some nice features. I’m really into the pipe. I hear people say they really enjoy it. I’ll definitely be coming back.” Ryan Beck came to the Monte Family Skateboard Park on a recent morning with several friends. “I like it a lot,” he said. “I find it is much better than the Felt Street Park. There are some features that are new to me like that ledge and the bumps. I’ve not tried the Watsonville park but I plan to.”
Dan Stan tests his skateboard skills inside a bowl at the new Monte Family Skateboard Park on McGregor Drive in Capitola, June 2. The park is situated near the entrance to New Brighton State Beach. Photo by Tarmo Hannula
Kenneth Cook
Insurance Services #0E46549
July 2016
LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel 7
History Corner
Continued from page 1
in Spanish. Therefore the King’s name would be pronounced, “kah-lah-kah-ooah”. However, most people now combine the “a” with “u” and pronounce it as “ow” so the most common pronunciation today is “kah-lah-cow-ah.” I prefer the first version. King David Kalakaua was well educated. During his reign he restored traditional Hawaiian pride and culture, including the hula, which had been banned by the missionaries. Claus Spreckels developed a major sugar production and refining business on Maui, became a friend of the King and helped to finance the Monarchy. Spreckels was knighted by the King in 1879. Claus Spreckels’ main residence was in San Francisco. He had purchased almost 2,600 acres in Aptos in 1872 as a ranch to raise racehorses. He built a grand hotel on Spreckels Drive in 1875 and had a summer mansion built in 1877. Spreckels had a four-in-hand carriage drawn by a team of four horses with liveried coachmen who would meet him and/or his guests at the Aptos train station and take them to his mansion or the hotel. King Kalakaua made a trip around the world starting Jan. 20, 1881 and ending Oct. 29, 1881. He was the first monarch in the world to accomplish this fete. It was on his final stop in San Francisco that our story begins on Wednesday, Oct. 19, 1881. Evidently, Spreckels accompanied the King on a whirlwind train trip to see the Aptos ranch. The same day the King went on to see the installation of the 12-inch equatorial telescope at Lick Observatory on Mount Hamilton. He then returned to San Francisco for his voyage home to Hawaii on Saturday. An article in the Santa Cruz Sentinel on Saturday, Oct. 22, 1881 read: “We have had a live King in our county, the King of the Cannibal Islands although, he did not visit this city. He visited the home of Sir Claus Spreckels, returning as far as San Jose Wednesday last, and those who were on the afternoon train that day had the pleasure of seeing his Highness, and talking to him if they wished, as he is certainly an approachable personage. Is tall and swarthy, and probably turns the scales at two hundred and forty pounds. It was learned from the King that he was an active fireman, a member of company number four, and he signified his desire to be present at the Watsonville (fireman’s) tournament, but a previous arrangement to visit Mount Hamilton denied him the privilege. He also said he would sail for his seagirt home today, taking a fire engine from San Francisco.” King David Kalakaua died on Jan. 20, 1891. Two days later, the Santa Cruz Sentinel published a “Reminiscence of His Visit to Aptos” by a “Santa Cruzan Who Knew Him Well.”
“The late King Kalakaua visited Santa Cruz some years ago. He was on a visit to Claus Spreckels of Aptos, and drove over to this city, where he remained for several hours... “It is related that when the King and Mr. Spreckels arrived on the train at Aptos from San Francisco, the latter’s carriage and horses were not at the station. While waiting for them Mr. Spreckels introduced his majesty to an old pioneer, who resided in Soquel. The pioneer, not accustomed to the ways of royalty, said, in acknowledgement of the introduction: “How d’ye do, King!” The royal personage, who was quite sociable, favorably impressed the pioneer, who soon felt as if he had known him for years. The Argonaut had a ramshackle vehicle at the depot station, and he asked the King to get in and ride with him. “’No,’ said Mr. Spreckels, ‘My carriage will be along soon.’ “‘That’s alright, come along with me, King, and I’ll get you there in no time,’ insisted the good natured ‘forty-niner,’ who was very pressing in his invitation. In the meantime Mr. Spreckels’ carriage was driven up and the King was assisted in. As they drove off the pioneer called out: ‘Say, King! Come up and see my place in Soquel before you go home.’ His Majesty and Mr. Spreckels were much amused at the incident.” So, now we know that King Kalakaua did not stay at the Bay View Hotel or anywhere else, since he left Aptos to visit the observatory on Mount Hamilton. We also know that when the King arrived in Aptos that Claus Spreckels was already with him. The only question is whether the unnamed, good natured “forty-niner” from Soquel was really John Daubenbiss. I have not been able to find any research on Daubenbiss which indicates that he met the King so I asked Carolyn Swift, historian and co-author of a history book on Soquel. The following are her comments about the newspaper article. “I doubt very much that it was John Daubenbiss. John was from Bavaria and not likely to say ‘How d’ye do, King.’ King Kalakaua of Hawaii is depicted in a painting by William Cogswell. Being German, basically, Daubenbiss knew all about kings, and probably had Continued from page 1 a formal accent. He also fought with Fremont’s battalion and was a naturalized Mexican citizen. He served several terms as Santa Cruz County supervisor. Frederick Freedom Paws. • Educational Hero: Hihn was an honorary pall bearer at his funeral. This sounds like the type of article Oscar Ramos of Salinas. As where the reporter had a little anonymous an instructor at Sherwood fun with a friend, or was just making it up School in Salinas for more than 20 years, Ramos because it sounded good.” So, there you have it. We are grateful has worked to develop to everyone who attended our 10th educational programs that “underprivileged” anniversary Museum fundraiser, “Swing target into Spring.” It was a great success. Thank students that help them grow academically, socially you for your support. and spiritually. • Environmental Hero: Ross Clark of Santa Cruz. As Santa Cruz’s climate action coordinator, Clark oversees the city’s awardwinning programs that target environmental and climate issues. • Humanitarian Youth Hero: Mercedes Molloy Join These Businesses in Supporting Non-Profit Organizations of Scotts Valley. As a volunteer at Faith Lee Solomon of KSBW TV congratulates Mercedes Molloy Community Shelter, Molloy for being named a hero at the American Red Cross Heroes helps prepare healthy meals Breakfast in Aptos. Photo by Tarmo Hannula for the homeless, seniors and others. She also spends time with the Anderson of Santa Cruz. On a day of clients to hear their stories and in shared unusually high surf, Anderson, deputy harbormaster, heard a faint call over his conversation. • Law Enforcement Hero: Michael VHF marine-band radio with the words Johnson of Pacific Grove. In February “mile buoy” and “water.” Acting on 2015, Johnson was driving home from a hunch, Anderson and assistant Sean work from Salinas Valley State Prison Hunt rushed out to sea and discovered when he happened upon a head-on crash. an overturned Hobie Cat sailboat with After rescuing one person he turned to no people in sight. Anderson eventually the second vehicle where he found an spotted a person in the water about a halfunconscious woman trapped in a burning mile from the boat. The rescue most likely car. With the aid of a Marina Police officer, saved the boater’s life. • Military Hero: Antony Virrueta of Johnson managed to free the woman Soledad. As a decorated combat veteran, Live Music, Food, Wine & Beer, moments before the car blew into flames. Children’s Activites and more. • Medical Hero: Bruce Block of Santa with 40 jumps while serving as an Army Cruz. After noticing that children and Ranger, Virrueta, realizing that Salinas did adolescents were getting late mental health not have a Veterans Day parade, came up First 5 Santa Cruz County care, Block, a pediatrician at Palo Alto with a plan and formed one in 2010. Now, triplep.first5scc.org Sponsored Medical Foundation, created a way to five years later, a crowd of about 10,000 by: deliver coordinated care to youths through typically attend the annual Veterans Day 831.465.2217 parade in downtown Salinas. a new behavioral health program. • Rescue Professional Hero: Blake
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8 - LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
July 2016
July 2016
Designs unveiled for ‘all-inclusive’ playground such as the Santa Cruz Sunrise Rotary Club have already pledged to donate, but LIVE OAK — Designs for Santa Cruz the project’s success will depend upon the County’s first playground meant to be community’s engagement. LEO’s Haven started as a dream for accessible to all children, regardless of Bob and Patricia Potts, whose children disability, were unveiled June 12. The Santa Cruz Playground Project are the playground’s namesakes: Lauren, and its partners — Shane’s Inspiration, Evelyn and Oliver, who uses a wheelchair. Chanticleer Park Neighbors Association It was these siblings’ wish to play together and the County of Santa Cruz — showcased that drove the grassroots effort to design, fundraise the designs for and build a LEO’s Haven “universally at Chanticleer accessible” Avenue Park. playground at In keeping Chanticleer with the park’s Avenue Park. history, the L E O ’ s playground is H a v e n designed with would be a farm theme. incorporated Separate as part of play spaces for children Designs for LEO’s Haven were unveiled June 12. Chanticleer Avenue Park ages 0-5 and Rendering by Shane’s Inspiration in Live Oak. 6-12 provide “The County Parks Department is interactive experiences for all in a setting that supports multi-generational play. excited to welcome LEO’s Haven as we Playground features include a sensory touch work together on a park design to serve wall, a farmer’s market, and accessible and the needs of all of our visitors,” Santa Cruz traditional swings and slides from which to County Parks Director Jeff Gaffney said. Another driving force behind the descend from the playground’s multi-level playground is Shane’s Inspiration, barn structure. “The true measure of a community is a nonprofit organization dedicated whether it serves all members, and this to building universally accessible playground is accessible to all children playgrounds throughout the nation and no matter their physical abilities,” said beyond. Shane’s Inspiration partnered with Patricia Potts, a Watsonville resident and the Santa Cruz Playground Project and will founder of LEO’s Haven. “There are too serve as the nonprofit fiscal sponsor and few playgrounds like this in our region, so playground designer. Park renderings feature the work for many families this is a dream becoming of Diane Scanlan, Shane’s Landscape reality.” Sunday’s event marks the kickoff of Architect and Director of Design. To donate to the project, visit www. a major fundraising campaign to raise $1.93 million to finance the playground, santacruzplaygroundproject.org. bathrooms and a parking lot. Local businesses, individuals and organizations
Staff report
LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel 9
CINNAMON BAY CLOTHING
July 2016
10 - LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
Guest Columnist
Guest Columnist
Addressing county roads
By ZACH FRIEND
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY SUPERVISOR
A simple drive through much of Aptos, both the urban and rural area, will show that the condition of our local roads is deteriorating. County Public Works recently completed an analysis of our local roads to determine the current conditions and presented to the Board of Supervisors about what is on the horizon at the state level for funding. We know that state and federal funding for infrastructure, which includes road repairs and improvements, highway work, bridges and multi-modal transportation methods has been reduced
Guest Columnist
drastically over the last decade and local funding mechanisms have not been able to keep pace with the growing need. Public Works’ findings highlighted what we all see on the ground. On a scale of zero (a failed road) to 100 (new road) the average Pavement Condition Index (PCI) of Santa Cruz County roads is 46. This means that our roads are generally defined as being in “poor condition” by this state measurement index and this score is a reduction from 55 just a few years ago. The statewide average PCI has also dropped. How many miles of road does the county have? The county maintains approximately 596 “centerline” miles of roads. Centerline miles is a type of measurement — specifically of total length of a road from its starting point to its endpoint. In our county about 19 percent of these miles are arterial roads (such as Soquel or Freedom), while 28 percent are residential (neighborhood streets). The rest are either defined as collector streets (36 percent), which often connect residential to arterials such as Clubhouse or Sumner, and rural roads (17 percent).
Public Works estimates it would take an over $800 million investment in our local roads to bring them into optimal conditions. While that number will not realistically be obtained (absent a significant state or federal infusion of funds), there are things that we are looking to do locally to both preserve the conditions of roads currently in good condition and improve the condition of roads in poor condition. As with most things, it’s much cheaper to maintain something in good condition than to rebuild something that has deteriorated. Or put simply, it’s cheaper to pay now versus paying later. In fact, it costs approximately $3 per square yard to maintain a road in good or excellent condition with a surface seal. This compares with $33 per square yard to do a thin surface overlay on a road on the edge of good condition. Once a road deteriorates into fair or poor condition it can cost $46 per square yard for a thick overlay or $90 per square yard for reconstruction. In a world of reducing available funding it makes even more sense to do as much preventive work as possible.
What is the county considering to address this issue? There are a few options: 1. State Funding Proposals. There are three funding proposals at the state level right now that would help provide varying relief for local transportation needs. The bill proposed by Assemblymember Frazier would bring in over $8.5 million annual to the county while the bill proposed by Senator Beall would bring in over $7.5 million. The third proposal comes from the Governor and would provide about $4 million annually. 2. Local Regional Transportation Commission Proposal. This is a 1/2cent sales tax for local transportation needs that would fund a number of local transportation needs. The component that is specific for county roads would be about $2.5 million annually. While these two funding mechanisms (state and local) wouldn’t solve all of our road issues, they would provide a significant improvement over our current situation. As always, I welcome your thoughts. Feel free to call me at 454-2200 with any questions or comments.
Guest Columnist
The $30 trillion wealth transfer wave By GARY E. CROXALL, CFP® and SOREN E. CROXALL, CFP® Currently, the United States is in the midst of a massive intergenerational wealth transfer that will only grow over the next 30-40 years as more and more Baby Boomers pass on their wealth to the Millennial generation. Currently the Silent Generation is in the process of passing on about $12 trillion in wealth to the Baby Boomers. Over the next several decades, Baby Boomers are estimated to pass about $30 trillion in wealth onto the Millennial generation. That is a lot of money that is going to be changing hands. Many people wonder how they can better prepare the next generation to handle this sudden windfall. Start conversations early Even the most carefully crafted and thought out estate and investment plans can be completely torpedoed by an heir who has no idea how to handle an inheritance. All the hard work you put into building and maintaining wealth can be squandered away quickly. Start teaching your children financial literacy early. This can be as simple as starting them on an allowance system when they are younger so they learn that nothing comes for free, you need to work for it. As kids grow older, start having more in-depth conversations about how to prudently manage money. Also, it can be tempting to keep the purse strings attached to adult children in order to help them find their financial footing. This may ultimately backfire on you if clear goals, objectives, and deadlines aren’t established. Adult children should begin taking responsibility for their own lives and parents should offer support when necessary but also make sure they aren’t disincentivizing their children from fully growing up. Many people are worried that sharing too much about what assets they have will cause their children to have a disincentive to work and cause family tensions. Or, worse yet, cause adult children to begin to take advantage of aging parents because they feel like “this money will be mine one day anyway.” These are completely valid concerns. You do not need to get into the nitty gritty details of all aspects of your assets with your heirs. However, you should consider starting an open dialogue about what your family goals are and how you envision your family’s legacy continuing.
Build a solid team Even if you have begun having an open dialogue with your heirs about your lifetime and legacy goals, it’s important you set up the proper team to help you implement those goals. As we mentioned in the previous section, having an ill-prepared heir inherit your wealth can derail your best laid plans. On the flip side, having a wealth transfer plan that is poorly planned and executed is also a good way to ruin your plans. Begin seeking out advisors that can help you understand and implement ways to efficiently transfer wealth according to your goals and objectives. Not everyone plans to leave their money to their children or other heirs. Some want their assets to go to certain causes and charities. Other people might want their assets to ultimately go to their children, but worry that their children may be too young or immature to handle the windfall until they reach a
certain age. Your situation and goals are unique and you should work with qualified professionals who understand that. Planning for the orderly transfer of your assets, no matter what the amount, should be thought through in advance and communicated to those affected. Those that are charged with taking action to implement your plans need to understand what they need to do or at least who they should be reaching out to and contacting for help. Inheriting assets due to a death is generally surrounded by the sadness of a loved one’s passing. Creating a clear plan, communicating and educating those directly involved can go a long way to ensuring that your wishes are fulfilled while giving confidence to those who must carry out those wishes.
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.
July 2016
LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel 11
Guest Columnist
Guest Columnist
Mid-year 2016 real estate recap
By RUTH BATES
Broker Associate & MBA
We are halfway through 2016 and the real estate world in Aptos is fast and furious! Forty-seven homes have sold in Aptos in the past 60 days, selling in 28 days on average. Median List Price was $949,000 and Median Sales Price was $935,000. Sales prices are way up from my January report on 2015 Average Sales Price of $782,000. A record high sale was recorded
Guest Columnist
at 164 Pleasant Valley – 4 bed, 5.5 bath, 6,919 SF on 80 acres sold for $9,750,000. 355 Coates in Seacliff is the second highest sale at $2,065,000. This oceanview property was listed for $1,895,000 and bid up with multiple offers. Eighteen homes sold for over $1 million, 6 homes — $900K-$1M+, 7 — $800K-$900K+, 5 — $700K-$800K+, 4 — $600K-$700K, and even 5 homes in Aptos sold for $500K-$600K in the past 60 days. Certain neighborhoods are very “hot.” The “Cliff” neighborhood in Rio Del Mar is selling at all-time highs (I sold 525 Townsend — 4/2.5/1968SF and updated for $1,150,000 and 411 Townsend — 3/2/1696SF and updated just sold for $950,000 in six days —neither of these homes had ocean views). The Rolling Green neighborhood off Valencia is selling at all-time highs (I sold 222 Siesta, a 1963 original, for $800,000 and an updated 210 Siesta is pending at list price $899,000). In Seacliff, 608 Middlefield – 3/2/1288SF and updated just sold for $935,000. Prices continue to climb in other areas
of the county. Live Oak, once the least expensive market from Santa Cruz to Aptos, is seeing “typical” 2-3 bedroom homes selling for between $750,000 - $800,000 (1054 Live Oak – 2 bed/2bath/1152SF listed at $739,000 and sold for $780,000 in 5 days, 1465 Rodriguez – 3/2.5/1654 listed for $750,000 and went pending with multiple offers in 8 days). Upper West Side Santa Cruz area homes are listing and selling at $1.3M if updated, $1.2M if not (105 Meadow – 3/2.5/1567SF remodeled, sold in 10 days for $1,350,000; 161 Hollywood – 4/2/1890SF remodeled, sold for $1,315,161, 108 Arroyo Place – 4/3/1751SF and not updated sold for $1,220,000). Country properties are not moving as quickly, but I did get my beautiful listing at 5 Nunes Road in the Aptos Hills-Larkin Valley area into escrow after 112 days on market with a full price contingent offer of $1,149,000 (over-thehill buyers who are selling their home to move here).
Townhome and condo values continue to increase Aptos buyers are turning to townhomes and condos and are driving these values up as well. Townhomes averaged 23 days on market with a Median List Price of $641,500 and a Median Sales Price of $645,000. I currently represent buyers who are in Back-Up position #1 at $620,000 for 412 Racquet Landing – 2 bed/2.5 bath/ 1286 Sq. Ft. which listed for $589,000, received 5 offers in 6 days and will close at well above list price. The condo at 1702 Dolphin – 3/2.5/1440SF listed for $569,000 and went pending in 4 days. 119 Seascape Ridge – 2/2/1556SF just listed for $649,000 will most likely be pending by the time this article hits the stands. Interest rates remain low Interest rates remain at all-time lows. Bankrate.com posts the national average 30-year fixed rate at 3.67 percent as of June 17. It’s still a good time to be a buyer and as always, it is a great time to live in Aptos!
Guest Columnist
Ask Nicole: Making the most of summertime By NICOLE M. YOUNG, MSW When I was a child, summertime seemed to last forever. I remember long days (that usually began with chores), and endless hours and weeks of playing with my siblings. Now that I’m an adult, it seems like summer is over in the blink of an eye. Sometimes I have to remind myself to pause and enjoy the slightly slower pace of my family’s life during the summer, and resist the urge to fill every moment of my kids’ schedules with activities. Although I’ll admit I do like the idea of having them start each day with some chores. This monthly column provides tips for anyone who is helping raise children, based on the world-renowned Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, available to families in Santa Cruz County. If you have a question or idea for a future column, email me at triplep@first5scc.org. Dear Nicole, I’m so relieved that summer is here! Our lives get so hectic during the school year that it usually takes a couple weeks before we really start enjoying the summer break. But summer gets hard, too – just in a different way. I’m a single mom and work full time, so my kids (6 and 8) have to be in camps or child care every day. I feel guilty that I’m not spending more time with them during their summer break, and I don’t want them to get bored. But sometimes
our schedules feel just as hectic as during the school year. What tips do you have for getting through the summer? Gina Dear Gina, Many parents have the same dilemma – kids get a welcome break from the school schedule, but parents still have to report to work every day! It sounds like you already know the importance of arranging safe, interesting, engaging places for your children to be while you’re at work, which is a great starting point. Here are a few other tips to help you and your kids make the most of summertime: Reconnect with your children. For many families, summer means a break from the hectic routine of school, homework, sports or other afterschool activities. This often creates more free time in the evening or on weekends, or can make it easier for some children to have later bedtimes. Use these opportunities to spend quality time together and add variety to your daily routines. The simplest ideas are often the best, like having a picnic dinner instead of eating at the table, or going on walks or playing games after dinner instead of watching TV. Plan family outings, even if they are just for a few hours or in your home town. Build a summertime “bucket list” with your kids, and encourage them to
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be creative about where and how you can explore something new together. Again, simple and inexpensive activities are often the ones that create happy memories to last a lifetime. Visit a local museum, go to a park or beach you’ve never been to, attend free outdoor concerts or movies, try a new ice cream or frozen yogurt shop, or visit the library or local bookstore. The possibilities for creating happy memories while strengthening your relationships with your children are endless. Encourage your children to develop new skills and interests. Talk to your children about what they’re interested in learning or trying, then find activities in the community or things you could do at home. Keep it simple enough that it’s fun for your children and realistic for you. Even teaching your children to make something besides cereal for breakfast can be a positive learning experience and provide them with lifelong skills. Maintain a routine. Although summertime routines might be more flexible, maintaining some consistency will make life more predictable and easier, especially with work, camp and child care schedules. It can also help teach your children about time or give them something to look forward to – e.g. go to the library every Thursday or call Grandma every Sunday. And it will help you ease back into the school routine once summer is over. Final thoughts: It’s ironic that many families look forward to summer during
the entire school year, only to find that managing everyone’s schedules and spending time together can be more complicated than keeping up with school work! The good news is that there are many ways to be positive parents during the summer that meet our children’s needs – and free us up from feeling guilty. ••• Nicole Young is the mother of two children, ages 12 and 16, 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. For more information, including classes and one-on-one meetings to help parents handle everyday parenting challenges, visit triplep.first5scc.org, www.facebook. com/triplepscc or www.youtube.com/ triplepsantacruzco. To find a Triple P class or practitioner, contact First 5 Santa Cruz County at 465-2217 or triplep@first5scc. org.
July 2016
12 - LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
JULY 2016
Aptos’ Kolby Losik named MVP the Mariners. After primarily working as a conduit for the Aptos offense during There was no question that the Santa last year’s campaign at setter, Losik, who Cruz Coast Athletic League’s Most started setting as a sophomore, moved Valuable Player for the 2016 season would around the court and had plenty of chances be an Aptos High player and his last name at racking up the kills, too. The captain led the Mariners to their firstwould be Losik. The only real question was which Losik ever back-to-back SCCAL championships and helped complete a 14-0 undefeated run would it be? Would it be Kolby, the smart and through the league this season — Aptos savvy setter, or Kacey, the strong-striking currently holds a 24-game winning streak against league opponents. sophomore outside hitter? He showcased his skills in the Mariners’ The coaches from around the league went with the former, naming the older biggest moments. In two regular season Losik brother the league’s MVP for the games against rival Mt. Madonna School, second year in a row during a recent end- which finished in second place in the SCCAL, he had 36 assists, 23 kills and of-season meeting. “This is a huge honor,” Losik said in a nine digs. The 6-foot-tall Mariner also had a phone interview. “For my peers to think that I deserved the award the last two years monster game in the SCCAL tournament semifinal against Pacific Collegiate School means a lot.” Losik had a monster final season for (PCS) in which he had 21 assists, 11 kills and eight digs. Losik deflected the praise toward the makeup of his team. “There were times where we could’ve lost a game — against Mt. Madonna and PCS — but we stuck together as a team,” he said. “That’s what usually happens with great teams. They get cocky and don’t stay focused. But we stuck together through the tough moments.” Losik, who has also won the SCCAL’s Sophomore of the Year and Freshman of the Year awards over his four years at Aptos, said he felt confident the MVP would at least stay within the family. “I thought I had a pretty good shot at winning it but [Kacey] had a huge year, too,” he said. “I thought he was my only competition for this award.” But Kacey did not walk away emptyhanded. The younger Losik brother, who was Aptos High sophomore outside hitter Kacey also one of the Mariners’ three captains, Losik (12) was recently named to the Santa earned a spot on the All-SCCAL First Cruz Coast Athletic League first team. File Team a year after being named the league’s
By TONY NUNEZ
Freshman of the Year. Like his sibling, Kacey played his best when the Mariners needed him to. The 6-foot-2-inch Mariner carried Aptos to a four-game win over PCS toward the tail end of their undefeated SCCAL run with a 28-kill, nine-dig, four-ace performance. The brotherly duo teamed up to guide Aptos to a 20-7 record and to the Central Coast Section Division II Semifinals. “We’re pretty unstoppable when we’re together,” Kolby Losik said. Aptos junior opposite Jayson Guy and Mt. Madonna freshman setter John Dias and senior middle blocker Holden Smith also made the All-SCCAL First Team. Standing at 6-foot-5-inches, Guy made it tough on teams with his attacks on the ball and his reach on the block. Dias stepped into the big shoes left by last year’s SCCAL co-MVP Pedro Aguirre and made the Hawks’ offense go. Smith was the lone senior starter for Mt. Madonna this season and the athletic 6-foot-5 middle made his presence felt on both offense and defense. Dias and Smith powered the Hawks to an impressive 25-9 season and a CCS playoff berth. San Lorenzo Valley High head coach Nick Saliba was named the Coach of the Year. Aptos senior outside hitter Josh Townsend and sophomore Christian Segura made the All-SCCAL second team along with Mt. Madonna sophomore outside hitter Brigg Busenhart. Four locals were also named All-SCCAL honorable mentions: senior middle blocker
Morgan Oberst (Aptos), sophomore setter Michael Spinelli (Aptos), sophomore opposite Zac Clark (Mt. Madonna) and freshman opposite Luca Peruzzi (Mt. Madonna).
Aptos High’s Kolby Losik (6) was recently named the Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League’s Most Valuable Player.
photos by Tony Nunez
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July 2016
LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel 13
Wharf to Wharf race returns for 44th year Runners in the annual Wharf to Wharf race cross the Murray Street Bridge in 2015. The 44th annual race from Santa Cruz to Capitola will return July 24, with thousands of runners expected to participate. Registration is full. File photo by Tarmo Hannula
The lead pack on runners start to separate themselves from the rest of the runners in 2015. File photo by Tarmo Hannula
July 2016
14 - LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
Ancient art revival Encaustic art practiced in Santa Cruz County located in Watsonville on Hames Road. The school, and the learning opportunity APTOS — With origins rooted in it provides, makes Santa Cruz County a ancient Egypt and Greece, the practice of hotbed for a specialty art form that Waddell burning and turning wax into art has been said other communities lack. “We’re lucky in this area to have one of long standing. Also known as encaustic art, Santa Cruz the most well-known schools for encaustic County is home to a school and cluster of art,” she said. “Encaustic means to burn in, so you paint on with pigments mixed with artists that specialize in the form. Susanna Waddell, an Aptos resident who beeswax.” This paint is molten, and at some has an art studio in Santa Cruz, is both point needs to be fused with the substrate practitioner and teacher. “Encaustic is an ancient form of art it is applied on. With as many as 30 layers and we have examples of this in some of to a painting, the layers have to be fused, our museums,” Waddell said. “We don’t and each need to be burned in with some know a lot in the way in which they did it, form of fire. “My choice is a blow torch,” Waddell what fire they used to burn the wax in, but we are lucky — it’s enjoying a kind of a said. “A lot of people use heat guns or hot pens or something that burns it and renaissance I would say.” She is referring to Wax Works West solidifies it. It’s quite different, it’s very, very different.” A member of the Pajaro Valley Arts Council, Waddell said that she encourages young people to try encaustic art, even though burns are common. “In the beginning, learning to use a blow torch and a hot pen and having a hot pallet that is always kinda ready to grab you— it’s challenging,” she said. “When I am teaching, you have to be really cautious that they are not setting each other on fire. You have Susanna Waddell talks about the practice of encaustic art and the to learn how to deal process of creating the wax pieces. Photo by Bek Phillips with it and be safe.”
By BEK PHILLIPS
CreekViewDentistry.com
The Elkhorn Slough is depicted here in one of Waddell’s paintings. She frequently paints scenery from memory.
But art to Waddell is more than a hobby. It is also a feasible skill, and she said sometimes a necessarily skill for people of all levels. “I think that even if you have to support yourself in another way, just doing art nurtures the soul,” she said. “I believe strongly that if you have it in you and you want to explore art and creativity, you must. You just must.” It is because of this mindset that she teaches as well as practices. Support is also a factor as the renewal of the ancient art form is limited. “Santa Cruz County is known to be filled with artists, and I think that people are proud of that,” Waddell said. “We learn so much from artists, we are inspired by artists. Artists represent our community because we have so much beauty around us, or they twist it in a way that makes you think completely differently.” Encaustic art is one way artists can change the perception of art. People can be drawn to the luminosity and textures that exist in encaustics. In addition, other textiles and mediums are commonly burned in and integrated into pieces. “As soon as they see it, and they might
not know anything about encaustics, they can see that it’s something quite different than what they are used to,” Waddell said. This difference in the way that the paintings look and feel has helped garner a new recognition of an old art. Between an increase in awareness and the instructors, the boom in Santa Cruz has made it a unique hub. “We have a larger number of encaustic artists in this area than most people, cities and towns,” Waddell said. “The fact that we have this local school is really helpful since it is a renewal of an art form.” At the end of the day, whether people have learned a new art form or taken home a new piece, there are just a couple final things Waddell wants people to know. “People wonder, ‘my gosh, won’t it just melt off the wall if sun hits it?’ The answer is no,” she said. “It has been exposed to quite a bit of heat, though I would not recommend leaving it in a hot car.” You can see examples of Waddell’s work at www.susannawaddell.com or during the Santa Cruz County Open Studios Art Tour in October.
July 2016
LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel 15
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July 2016
16 - LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
Gearing up for the World’s Shortest Parade Staff report APTOS — The 55th annual World’s Shortest Parade returns to Aptos on July 4. This year’s theme is “Team Up for America.” The pancake breakfast will be in the parking lot of Burger, 7941 Soquel Drive, from 7-10 a.m. The World’s Shortest Parade will begin at 10 a.m. at the corner of Soquel and State Park drives and continue to the Bay View Hotel. Rene Schlaepfer, pastor of Twin Lakes Church, will be the grand marshal. As is tradition, judges will be eyeing standout floats to see who comes out on top in a variety of categories, such as most unusual, best pet and most
patriotic. After the parade, families are invited to Aptos Village Park for “Party in the Park” from noon to 4 p.m. Extra Large will perform. The Party in the Park will be from 12-4 p.m. and will have food, games and more. Donations for the Party in the Park of $5 for adults are appreciated. Children are free. T-shirts featuring the World’s Shortest Parade logo, designed by Jon and Julie Rawls, are available for purchase in a variety of locations, including the Aptos Chamber, Santa Cruz County Bank, Aptos Feed & Pet Supply and others. For information, call 688-1467, or visit aptoschamber.com.
Happy
The American spirit was out in full force during the parade in 2015.
Bikers from Epicenter Cycling perform stunts. File photos by Erik Chalhoub
July 2016
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July 2016
18 - LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
APTOS
SOQUEL
CAPITOLA
JULY July 4
July 9
World’s Shortest Parade
Capitola Museum 50th anniversary
The World’s Shortest Parade travels down Soquel Drive from State Park Drive to Aptos Village Park at 10 a.m. Before the parade will be a pancake breakfast at in the Burger parking lot from 7-10 a.m. The Party in the Park, featuring local vendors, food, music activities, follows the parade and ends at 4 p.m.
July 19 Summer Mixer
The Aptos Chamber of Commerce will hold a mixer at Armitage Wines, 105 Post Office Drive, from 5-6:30 p.m. Admission is $5 for chamber members, $10 for non-members.
July 24
The Capitola Historical Museum, 410 Capitola Ave., will celebrate its 50th anniversary from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be outdoor displays, activities for kids, souvenirs and refreshments. Former director Carolyn Swift will share reminiscences at 11 a.m. followed by a cake cutting at 11:30 a.m. For information, visit www. cityofcapitola.org/capitola-museum.
July 26 Sons in Retirement luncheon
The Aptos Branch Sons in Retirement will hold a luncheon at 11:30 a.m. at Serverino’s Restaurant, 7500 Old Dominion Court. Greg Horne will speak on climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. For information, call Jim at 708-4133.
Wharf to Wharf Race
Thousands of runners and walkers will take part in the annual Wharf to Wharf Race, a six-mile run from Santa Cruz to Capitola. For information, visit www. wharftowharf.com. APTOS
SOQUEL
Ongoing Cabrillo Stage Cabrillo Stage, the Broadway style musical theater company at Cabrillo College celebrates its 35th Anniversary Summer Festival. The season opened with a limited three-week engagement of the comedy, “Chicago,” playing June 23–July 10. “Chicago” was the first musical Cabrillo Stage produced back in 1981. Next up is “Fiddler on the Roof,” playing July 21-Aug. 14. All performances are held at the Cabrillo Crocker Theater, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos. For tickets, call the box office at 479-6154 or purchase online at www.cabrillostage.com.
Aptos Noon Toastmasters Aptos Noon Toastmasters will be held every Wednesday at 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at Rio Sands Hotel, 116 Aptos Beach Drive. A group of people at all levels of experience from beginners to more advanced to help you discover your voice and share it effectively. Everyone is welcome. For more information visit Facebook.com/ AptosNoonToastmasters or call 236-1171.
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CAPITOLA
Public Meetings All meetings take place at Capitola City Hall 420 Capitola Ave.
July 5
July 19
Museum Board 5:30 p.m.
Soquel Creek Water Board 6 p.m.
Art & Cultural Commission 6:30 p.m.
July 21
July 12 July 13
Architectural & Site Review 3:30 p.m. Traffic & Parking Commission 6:30 p.m.
July 19
Finance Advisory Committee 6 p.m.
Planning Commission 7 p.m.
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July 27
Architectural & Site Review 3:30 p.m. Commission on the Environment 6 p.m.
July 28
City Council 7 p.m.
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July 2016
LIFE Everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel 19
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Fireworks and enforcement To the Editor,
We welcome readers to submit letters for publication. Letters should be under 400 words, and columns can be no more than 800 words. Letters and columns may be emailed to newsroom@ register-pajaronian.com, or dropped off at the RegisterPajaronian, 100 Westridge Drive, Watsonville, CA, 95076. All letters must be signed and have an address and phone number for confirmation purposes. We reserve the right to edit and condense all submissions.
APTOS
SOQUEL
CAPITOLA
County officials held a community meeting in Aptos June 9 to discuss upcoming enforcement regarding illegal fireworks. Sheriff Jim Hart spoke of six pillars for modern policing. Frankly, I stumbled on the first of these, which covers building trust and improving relations between police and the community. Gentlemen, I very much appreciate your situation, but there are mountains to climb, some matching the challenge of El Capitan and Half Dome, in reaching your lofty goals. While officers move about in vehicles marked “Protect and Serve,” the media is full of questionable tales of police killing people. But, this meeting was about fireworks, which are as American as apple pie. In the absence of an organized display, people will create their own. Perhaps their needs to be improvement
in training programs with emphasis on enforcement with an even hand. Yes, infractions of law are not equally serious, but law is law. There is enforcement and then there is enforcement. There is also looking the other way or not even looking. For example, the oil spill on the Aptos Village Project. Had the proper monitors been on hand, it would not have happened. So many laws were broken; failure to notify county health, removal of tank without permit, transport of ruptured tank over public thoroughfares. A permit was issued one week later, after the tank was delivered to a salvage yard, uncleaned and cut into pieces, and after the tank had been completely destroyed. How’s that for enforcement? Later, contaminated soil left the site in large trucks, uncovered, and delivered to a processor in Santa Clara County. It seems the soil should have been covered to prevent wind from
spreading it all along the highways. On a more personal note: New Year’s Eve some 20 years ago in Watsonville. Had I been standing where I was sitting, I’d have taken a rifle through my skull. Police were called, and they arrived 45 minutes later. One said “That bullet could have come from a mile away.” I pointed out the straight line from the back door of the house across a field to a hole in our back fence, the top clipped off the Christmas tree sitting out there, the shattered glass pane at our back door and the hole in the wall to my right. There was a party celebrating in the yard next door to the source of the bullet. Surely, someone would have seen or heard something. But, the cops refused to go around the block to investigate anything. Thomas Stumbaugh Aptos
Thank you for your votes To the Editor, It was a great stretch of character for me to place my name on the June 7 ballot as a candidate for Second District County Supervisor. I am glad I did, because I met some really wonderful people and learned a lot. I want to thank the 3,014 constituents who honored me with their vote. Coupled with the other alternate candidate, Mr. Rich McInnis’s votes, about one in four Second District voters voiced their desire for a change in leadership and representation. I
think that is notable and I hope that the incumbent, Mr. Zach Friend, will consider this as he moves into his fouryear term. I urge citizens to take an active role in the community and to communicate frequently with Supervisor Friend. He will need to be reminded to include all citizens as critical issues loom on the horizon regarding water crisis, transportation and allowing rapid growth to destroy the quality of our neighborhoods. I urge all citizens to demand evening public meetings
to discuss these issues that, if left to the county government, will quickly change your way of life ... in ways you may not want. I hope to see you at the meetings! Thanks again for your votes. Feel free to contact me with your thoughts and ideas: 685-2915 or ki6tkb@yahoo.com. Becky Steinbruner Aptos