MAY 2017 EVERYTHING APTOS, CAPITOLA & SOQUEL Vol. 5 No. 10
Boardwalk’s ‘Main Entrance’ project
APTOS
SOQUEL
pg. 3
Aptos History Museum’s 11th Anniversary on May 7 -pg. 2
CAPITOLA
Garden opening marks rebirth of Aptos Library By BEK SABEDRA APTOS — The Friends of the Aptos Library opened a freshly designed landscape and garden to the public with a dedication ceremony April 13. The combined efforts of the Soquel Creek Water District, Cabrillo College, Supervisor Zach Friend and others allowed the Friends to replace a barren patch of land that once made up the green lawn. “It was awful,” said Debby Peronto of the Friends of the Aptos Library. “It was uneven, dead, no one could walk on it or do anything.” The thought then was to replace it with a walk-through garden created with water-wise plants that make sense for the pollinators and environment. And while the inception of the idea began in mid-2015, it was not until 2016 that work could move forward. “The goal of the library is to be a center for the community and attract different types of people,” Peronto said. “Gardens help people get interested and stay involved.” Now, almost a year later, the project is complete, with Please turn to Page 9
HISTORY CORNER By John Hibble Call: 688-1467 Visit us online: aptoshistory.org Visit the museum: 7605-B Old Dominion Court Aptos, CA
Something in the water New stories, begging to be told, come to the Aptos History Museum on a regular basis. Last August, a man named Norm Reich emailed us asking for information about Leo Monroe. Norm’s grandmother, Geraldine Beem, was the nanny for Leo Monroe’s daughter in 1939. Also, a distant set of Norm’s relatives were the Monroes’ butler and cook for a number of years. Norm sent us some amazing photographs as well. This is what my research turned up. The “Roaring Twenties” were crazy times. It was a backlash against “No you can’t” (Prohibition) and the response was, “I will if I want to.” People did crazy things (and still do). In 1925, the San Francisco real estate firm of Monroe, Please turn to Page 7
The men work the green at the Seascape Golf Club on an overcast morning. Photo by Tarmo Hannula
Aptos/La Selva firefighters take historic step Issue vote of no confidence against fire chief By TODD GUILD APTOS — Aptos/La Selva Firefighters on April 3 said they have issued a vote of no confidence against Chief Jon Jones, marking the first such move in the department’s 87-year history. Every member of Aptos/La Selva
Firefighters Local 3535 signed the vote of no confidence. Jones began with the Aptos/La Selva Fire District in October 2014. His three-year contract expires in October 2017, but he is eligible to request a two-year extension on his contract as early as April 13. Please turn to Page 6
Spring signals hope for struggling shops
Capitola Village counts on summer boom By BEK SABEDRA CAPITOLA — As schools take turn releasing their students into the world for spring break, many businesses in the Capitola Village are hoping this will bring the reprieve they need to keep their doors open. The unusually wet winter, complete with multiple road
closures, has hampered businesses whose main source of revenue comes from tourists. “It was very slow,” Rainbow City Limit shop owner Babette Arrowsmith Fenton said. “A slower than usual winter — we don’t get many visitors when we have weather like that. We haven’t had that kind of Please turn to Page 6
Inside ...
Briefs................................4-5 Castro Adobe......................8 Guest column......................9 Calendar............................11 PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID WATSONVILLE, CA PERMIT NO. 23 ******ECRWSSEDDM****** POSTAL CUSTOMER APTOS, CA 95003 CAPITOLA. CA 95010
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2 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MAY 2017
By KAREN HIBBLE
APTOS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Flanked by his sisters Lauren and Evelyn, Oliver Potts is wheeled down the runway during Hats Off to Spring Fashion on April 23. Contributed photo
APTOS
SOQUEL
CAPITOLA
Publisher - John Bartlett
Please join us for our Aptos History Museum’s 11th Anniversary on May 7 at Seacliff Inn for a fabulous afternoon of music, food and fun to support the Aptos History Museum. For only $30, guests can tour the Aptos History Museum right across the street from the Seacliff Inn, enjoy movie-themed music from the Soquel High Jazz Band, feast on luscious appetizers from Seacliff Inn, see old movies on the wall, and browse the silent auction while supporting our History Museum. Please join us. The museum is supported only by your donations. Be a part of our history. Make your reservation today at 688-1467. It will be held Sunday, May 7, 3-5:30 p.m., children welcome. Thanks to all of you who came and enjoyed our Hats Off to Spring Fashion show at the Beautiful Seascape Beach Resort. We showcased shopping locally with fashions from many of our local stores: Cinnamon Bay, Aptos Shoes and Apparel, Kickback Boutique, Patrick James, O’Neil’s Surf Shop, Xandra Swimwear, and our wonderful clothing store for children, Hopscotch in Aptos. There is no reason to shop online when we have the best choices for you right here in our Santa Cruz County. Our models were men, women and children from our community and the stunning flowers were from Pajarosa Floral grown locally in Watsonville. They were perfectly arranged by Tammy’s Flower Connection. Our makeup artists from Bella Donna enhanced the glamour of our models as they do daily in their salon in Aptos. Models were photographed by our own photographer Express Photographic. Everyone in the trunk show was also local. It was a lovely event. The event was sponsored by Aegis Living of Aptos. Partial proceeds from this event benefited Leo’s Haven which will be our first all-inclusive playground in Santa Cruz County. As Oliver, our spokesperson says, “All kids need to play.” Curves of Aptos will also donate a portion of all new memberships from now through May to Leo’s Haven. The community continues to amaze with support for our children. Thank you. Leo’s Haven will be a playground designed to provide all children access to the benefits of play while fostering respect, empathy and friendships. Leo’s Haven is a project of Shane’s Inspiration, a nonprofit creating social inclusion for children with disabilities through inclusive playground programs. We are excited to be a small part of bringing this dream to a reality. Enjoy spring. ••• Karen Hibble is co-executive director of the Aptos Chamber of Commerce.
Editor - Erik Chalhoub Editorial Todd Guild, Tony Nuñez, Tarmo Hannula, Bek Sabedra Photography - Tarmo Hannula Advertising Sales Tina Chavez, Bek Sabedra, Mark Pezzini, 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 RegisterPajaronian. Publishing in Santa Cruz County since 1894.
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Community Foundation gave more than $7 million in grants in 2016 Staff report APTOS — Community Foundation Santa Cruz County gave out more than $7 million in grants to 482 organizations in Santa Cruz County and beyond, the organization announced April 19. Of the total, 75 percent came from donoradvised funds at the Community Foundation, established by individuals, families and businesses. Another six percent were annual payments from the earnings generated from funds established by nonprofits, invested and managed by the Community Foundation, and awarded in the form of grants. “People continue to trust us as a reliable local partner for their charitable giving,” said CEO Lance Linares. “Those contributions from individuals, families and businesses, along with the continued growth of our funds allowed us to increase our giving last year by $2.4 million, over 2015.” For a full list, visit tinyurl.com/mqt4gff.
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LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 3
Boardwalk’s ‘Main Entrance’ project moves forward Memorial Day opening anticipated
Tom Canfield, executive vice president of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, describes the work being done to expand the park’s main entrance. Photo by Erik Chalhoub
Workers arrange a set of parts for Shockwave, which is one of two new rides set to be constructed as part of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk’s Main Entrance project. Photo by Erik Chalhoub
By ERIK CHALHOUB SANTA CRUZ — About 15 years ago, officials from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk began looking at a project, dubbed “Centennial Plaza,” that would give the park a grand front entrance complete with more ticket booths, rides, attractions and more. The goal was to finish it in time for the Boardwalk’s 100th anniversary in 2007. But, as park officials found out, it was a “little ambitious” to get it done in time for the centennial year, said the Boardwalk’s Executive Vice President Tom Canfield. “We had so many dominoes that needed to fall first,” he said. “That really set the tone as to what we did.” Those “dominoes” included infrastructure that needed to be upgraded and moved. Some departments moved into the new Haunted Castle building in 2010, and the parking lot toll booths were upgraded recently with a ticketing system. In addition, the Boardwalk’s dispatch
center and switchboard had to be moved, as the buildings that housed those would be demolished to make way for the plaza project. Now, for the Boardwalk’s 110th year, the “Centennial Plaza,” now called the “Main Entrance” project, is becoming a reality. The $14 million project, which broke ground in September, will include two new rides, more ticket windows, a new Fright Walk experience, two arenas for The Vault Lazer Maze and more. Despite a wet winter that slowed construction, park officials are eyeing a Memorial Day opening date, according to Canfield. “The weather this year threw us behind the eight ball, but these guys are working hard, they’re working two shifts,” he said. “We’re doing what we can to make sure we get everything done.” Daniels Wood Land, Inc., a family-owned design and themeing company based in Paso Robles, is working on exterior design and themeing for games and attractions inside the Main Entrance. A number of
local contractors including William S. Bagnall Architects, Slatter Construction and Nielsen Studios are also working on the project. Roto, an Ohio design firm, worked with Boardwalk staff to design the project. Sitting atop an expanded upper deck next to the Undertow roller coaster is Shockwave, a ride known as a Mega Disk’O that is manufactured by Italy-based Zamperla. The ride holds 24 people, who sit on motorcycle-style seats facing outward around a disc. As the disc spins, the riders will be rocked back and forth on a halfpipe-shaped track. “It’s a fantastic ride,” Canfield said. “Being able to put it up on top of the deck, it’s going to give it so much more appeal, so much more thrill, and it’s going to show so much better.” Sitting in the center of the entrance plaza is a new version of a classic Boardwalk ride: Typhoon. Manufactured by A.R.M., Typhoon will swing riders upside-down on two spinning arms, at a height of 60 feet. Unlike the
original Typhoon, which was removed in 2009 to make way for Sea Swings, the new version will not enclose riders in a cage, and their legs will be able to swing freely. Fright Walk, Canfield said, will be about “75 percent new,” with more square footage and will take place underneath the Boardwalk. Among the other new additions will be Cruzin’ Crepes, a food stand featuring made-to-order crepes, a birthday party room and two midway games. For information, visit beachboardwalk. com/new2017. ••• The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk recently announced the lineup for its Free Friday Night Bands on the Beach series. Eddie Money, Blue Oyster Cult, Los Lobos and more will perform in the series, which runs from June 16 to Sept. 1. Free Movies on the Beach will run Wednesdays from June 21 from Aug. 16. For information, visit beachboardwalk. com.
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BUSINESS
BIRD DAY
KLUB NICO
International Migratory Bird Day 2017 celebration set
Klub Nico raises funds for Valencia Elementary
Staff report
Staff report
WATSONVILLE — The Watsonville Wetlands Watch and the City of Watsonville Nature Center are working together to celebrate this years’ International Migratory Bird Day by holding free community events that highlight the birds of the Watsonville Wetlands. The Watsonville Wetlands support more than 250 resident and migratory bird species including many that are rare and declining throughout the state. Tour participants will see a variety of bird species and have a chance to explore the slough system with expert guides. Several of the tours will be offered are bilingual. In addition to migratory birds, tour participants can expect to be treated to a variety of birds in their colorful breeding plumage or making interesting breeding calls, like Red-winged Blackbirds, Ruddy Ducks, and American Bitterns. The community is invited to attend the following events to celebrate International Migratory Bird Day 2017: • May 13: 8-10 a.m., two bird walks sponsored by Watsonville Wetlands Watch. Nanci Adams will lead a walk along the paved East Struve Slough trail that is wheelchair accessible and will see some of the restoration work in progress. Hugo Ceja’s walk is bi-lingual and will travel across Department of Fish and Wildlife lands to West Struve Slough. Both trips meet at Fitz Wetlands Education Resource Center located at Pajaro Valley High School at 500 Harkins Slough Road, Watsonville. Wear layers, bring binoculars, hat, sunscreen, and water. • May 13: 1-4 p.m., bilingual family activities sponsored by the City of Watsonville Nature Center. Activities include: Bird Beak Buffet, an indoor interactive game about beak adaptations. Address: 30 Harkins Slough Road, Watsonville. For information, call 768-1622. For information, visit www.migratorybirdday.org.
Soquel graduate
building painting business in Santa Cruz County Staff report SOQUEL — Cameron Newcomb may only be one year removed from Soquel High School, but that isn’t keeping this young entrepreneur from running his own business. Newcomb, a 2016 SHS graduate, is a freshman business student at San Francisco State. This spring, he’ll be backing up those classroom lessons with some real world experience, thanks to a highly selective internship with College Works Painting. Newcomb was one of roughly 2,000 interns across 19 states hired this year to manage a team of professional painters, marketers and other employees operating in Santa Cruz County. The company provides its college interns with painting supplies, a budget and extensive mentoring, then steps back as the students take charge of building revenue, controlling costs and maintaining all other aspects of a small painting business. College Works, a for-profit company, takes a portion of the earnings from each home painted, but compensates its interns over the course of the summer — in addition to the up-front investment the company makes in supplies, training and mentoring. Interns are mentored at each step of the way by someone who has successfully completed the program.
APTOS — Klub Nico, a lifestyle footwear brand, will hold its Fourth Annual Anniversary Sale on May 5 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and May 6 from 10 a.m.4 p.m. at the Klub Nico boutique located at 783 Rio Del Mar Blvd., Suite 33, Aptos. In celebration of having the Klub Nico retail store for four years, the brand is offering local customers the opportunity to buy their shoes at discounted prices during the event. The sale is dedicated to raising awareness and funds for Valencia Elementary School which is currently closed due to the storms back in February of this year. The Klub Nico team is also selling raffle tickets ($2 each or 6 for $10) ahead of and during the sale with 100 percent of all monies collected going to Valencia Elementary. Klub Nico has encouraged other local companies to get involved in the effort. Those that have donated funds and raffle prizes so far include: Chill Out Café, Deluxe Foods, Highlights for Hair, BellaMar Training stables, Red Apple Café, Bittersweet Bistro, SC Whale Watching, and PrintSmith. “The relocation of our school has been challenging for staff as well as students and their families,” said Valencia Elementary Principal Caryn Lane. “Though we are extremely grateful to have alternative sites for our children to continue their learning, and are appreciative of the sacrifices made by others to provide us with three different homes away from home, we very much look forward to getting back to Valencia and being together as one unified school community. We are thankful for Klub Nico’s support and are excited to partner with such a wonderful local company in raising funds for our school. We look forward to a very successful anniversary sale event.” For information, visit www.klubnico.com.
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LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 5
SC COUNTY BANK
DELTA SCHOOL
SHAKESPEARE CLUB
SC County Bank named ‘Super Premier Performing Bank’ for seventh consecutive year
Staff report SANTA CRUZ COUNTY — Santa Cruz County Bank, a locally owned and operated full-service community bank headquartered in Santa Cruz County, earned a seventh consecutive designation of “Super Premier” performing bank by The Findley Reports, Inc. based upon 2016 financial performance. For a bank to achieve the Super Premier performance rating it must meet four key performance ratios established by Findley Reports, Inc. Super Premier is the highest rating level established by Findley Reports, Inc. Santa Cruz County Bank met the four criteria at a high level of performance: growth, return on beginning equity, net operating income as a percentage of average assets and loan losses as a percentage of gross loans. “One of the true joys in writing the Newsletter and reviewing the performance of all banks in the western United States is recognizing exceptional performance,” said Gary Steven Findley, editor of The Findley Reports. “Santa Cruz County Bank has again been recognized as a Super Premier Performing Bank and remains one of the top performing banks year in and year out. “Seven consecutive years as a Super Premier Performing bank is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our Board of Directors, our management team, and our employees to meet high service standards and deliver exceptional value for our shareholders,” said David Heald, president and CEO of Santa Cruz County Bank. For more than 50 years, The Findley Reports has been recognizing the financial performance of banking institutions in California and the Western United States. Santa Cruz County Bank, founded in 2004, has offices in Aptos, Capitola, Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley and Watsonville.
Delta High School will hold its annual fundraiser on May 18. Contributed photo
High school holding second annual fundraiser Staff report APTOS — Delta High School will present its second annual fundraiser on May 18 from 5:30-8 p.m. at the Sesnon House at Cabrillo College. Attendees will sip wine and Martinelli’s cider while enjoying appetizers by Jody Lombardo, the chef/owner of Fresh Prep Kitchens. This year’s event will raise funds to ensure that all Delta students can explore life’s options through visits to colleges and places of business. These visits will serve to connect students to the broader community and help them set goals for their future. This year’s event will feature: • Keynote by former Philadelphia Eagles football player and current Associate Vice President for Boys and Girls Clubs of Monterey, Ron Johnson • Silent auction and raffle including tickets to Giants games • Student speakers • Student art show In a recent survey, more than 75 percent of the students stated that “Delta is preparing me well for college and for my future career choice.” For information, visit deltaschool.org, call 477-5212 or visit theplaceswewillgodeltaschoolfundraiser.eventbrite.com.
Shakespeare Club examines ‘Twelfth Night’ Staff report APTOS — The Saturday Shakespeare Club will examine “Twelfth Night,” one of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies, on five Saturdays beginning May 6 at 10 a.m., in Christ Lutheran Church, 10707 Soquel Drive in Aptos. On June 3 (following a break for Memorial Day), Porter College Provost Sean Keilen, UCSC professor of literature and director of the Shakespeare Workshop, will address aspects of the final portion of the play. And on June 10, the group will hold a potluck lunch and watch a film version of “Twelfth Night,” also at the church. Each 10 a.m. lecture lasts about an hour. During the following hour, club members read aloud portions of the play being discussed. The sessions are open to the public and although there’s no fee to attend, a voluntary $2 per session donation is suggested to cover rental of the facility. 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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6 - LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel
Capitola Village rain in 20 years.” Sitting below sea level, businesses in the Capitola Village are the focus for the Public Works Department throughout the winter season, according to Toni Castro of the Capitola/Soquel Chamber of Commerce. “Their priority has been the Village to make sure things stay safe and clean,” she said. “[The Village] is always affected by waves and flooding — they get the brunt of it and it does affect people not going down there.” In 2011, an overwhelmed drainpipe that had collapsed resulted in massive damages and flash flooding for several businesses. But while there was no major flooding this year, retail shop owner Devon Salter, whose store Capitola Reef specializes in toe rings and beach attire, said the continuous rain posed a different kind of problem for those who carry seasonal products. “The biggest challenge during the winter would just be lack of business, which is a direct result of the weather,” he said. “Now our challenge, for those in retail, is a lot of us brought in winter product and now we don’t have funds for spring product.” Until the businesses can raise enough money, they are unable to have their summer inventory shipped. “Talking to the other shop owners, this has been their toughest winter,” Salter
Firefighters
Continued from page 1
said. “Some of them that they have ever had, and they have been here 25 yearsplus.” Part of this is a lack of a local base in their consumers, Salter said. Citing parking and early closing hours during the week as one of the reasons many stay away, Salter said road closures and commute times also had an impact. “There’s so many variables, most locals don’t want to venture down here, they want to have their cars if they are shopping,” he said. “It just rained so much. Almost every day in February, 70 percent of the days in January ... [Highway] 17 being closed, the last thing they want is to come down into the Village and shop when they are having an eight-hour commute.” Tourists, he said, became skittish after the mudslides, fearing being trapped. For the Village, inclement weather spells retail gloom. “We are wimpy when it comes to the rain — we aren’t used to it, but we could be like Chicago,” Fenton said. “You gotta get out and live your life, but people are funny.” But the seasons have turned, and owners are optimistic about the future. “People will come,” she said. “It always works out.” And for Salter, he said he wants the
Photo by Tarmo HANNULA
Some merchants in the Capitola Village are keeping their doors open till 8 p.m. to cater to the local crowd.
locals to know that they are wanted and valued. “We love having the locals here; a lot of the shops here offer incentives and discounts to people who live here,” Salter said, adding that it is nice to converse with those that live in your own community. “I do get a lot of locals for my toe rings, but I think it makes for a better environment to have locals and tourists mingling.”
In an effort to reach out to the locals, some shop owners are banding together to offer “sunset shopping.” Now, on Fridays, some shops throughout the Village will keep their doors open longer. Hours have been extended to 8 p.m. in order to accommodate those with nine-to-five jobs. “I personally love having locals in my shop,” Salter said.
approve a request for a contract extension if Jones makes one. In a prepared statement to this newspaper, Jones questioned the timing of the vote. “To the extent that the International Association of Firefighters Union, Local 3535, lacks confidence in District leadership during contract negotiations, we are disappointed that they have chosen to utilize the media to convey their
grievances,” the statement read. “While this type of communication of grievances is unfortunate, we look forward to working together to resolve their concerns and continue to provide unparalleled emergency service to the community.” The Aptos/La Selva Fire Protection District Board of Directors met on April 13 at the administration office at 6934 Soquel Drive, where, firefighters addressed the board about their concerns.
Continued from page 1
According to President Ryan Peters, the vote came after three years of failed leadership, uneven discipline, the elimination of community services and Fire District resources, and a complete lack of communication. “The Fire Department that our members have dedicated our professional lives to has been driven into the ground under the leadership of Chief Jon Jones,” Peters said. “Our firefighters love this
community. We live here, we work here, and we are dedicated to the people of Aptos and La Selva Beach. That’s why we are so passionate in fighting to regain our once proud Fire District that is no longer providing the services that our residents have come to expect and deserve.” The vote of no confidence has been distributed to the five elected board members of the Aptos/La Selva Fire Protection District, which can deny or
“Karuna”-India
You are cordially invited to a Values in World Thought presentation by Mount Madonna School Karuna — India 12th grade students about their recent experiences in India.
We hope you will join us! Friday, May 12 9:00am Reception | 9:30am Presentation Free admission • For more information call (408) 847-2717
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LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 7
History Corner
Continued from page 1
Lyon and Miller purchased more than 1,700 acres of land in Aptos in order to develop what would become Rio Del Mar. The firm had successfully developed subdivisions in Los Altos and Belmont. This is one of the many tales about Leo Monroe, President of the Rio Del Mar Country Club and the Aptos Land and Water Company. Leo (Leigh) Monroe was born in 1883 in Vermont and eventually moved to San Francisco where he operated a large optical company. He was a polo player and a prominent yachtsman, even winning the Farallones Trophy in 1937. Leo was quite well-to-do. We have a photo of the Hotel Rio Del Mar about 1930. In front of the hotel is parked a 1929 or 1930 Cord L29, front wheel drive convertible, a very upscale automobile. I suspect that the car belonged to Leo Monroe and it was pictured on the front of the brochure for the hotel. Leo married his first wife Elsey (Estelle) in Oakland in 1926 and they built a house on Beach Drive to the east of the Beach Club. The Beach Club was located where today’s State Park’s parking lot is at the end of Beach Drive just before the gate. Evidently, it was not wedded bliss. They were separated Feb. 3, 1930. She complained that her husband habitually nags and has told her to “get out” and that he “no longer cares for her.” Their divorce was granted Jan. 16, 1934. In May of 1937, both Leo Monroe and his partner Larry Miller, sold their Beach
Drive homes and later, constructed larger homes. There must have been something in the water because, on Dec. 24, 1937, 54-year-old Leo Monroe married Gena Rea Timmons in New York City. Gena Rea was a 17-year-old showgirl who appeared in Billy Rose’s “Show of Shows.” She was supposedly named “one of the 10 most beautiful women in the world.” Gena Rea (Eugenia Marie) Timmons was originally from San Antonio, Texas. The marriage came as a complete surprise to his many friends. They honeymooned in New York and returned to Rio Del Mar in January. At the same time in early December 1937, Leo’s partner, 38-year-old Larry Miller married a 20-year-old college roommate of his sister. They honeymooned in Europe. Leo built a new mansion sized house for Gena on five acres at the very top of Wallace Avenue and named it Shelbourne Farm. Leo and Gena lived happily and gave birth to a daughter, Mary Leigh, on April 2, 1939. People in the neighborhood today often think the house was Claus Spreckels’ mansion or carriage house but that is not the case. Unfortunately, the house was severely damaged in the 1989 earthquake and completely remodeled. The house that is there now is newer. The location is still quite grand. Gena continued to entertain the community. In July of 1941, Gena Monroe sang for the soldiers at Camp McQuaide, today’s Monterey Bay Academy. She was accompanied by the Rio Del Mar orchestra
Monroe Mansion. Aptos History Museum archives
Gena Rea Timmons is shown on the right. Aptos History Museum archives
and a group of young people. Then tragedy struck. Early on the evening of Nov. 25, 1941, Gena and Leo were on the Bayshore Highway (Highway 101) at Chestnut Avenue in Redwood City. Gena Monroe was driving. Gena was forced to apply the brakes when the car ahead of her suddenly slowed down. A front wheel locked and threw the car into the path of an oncoming car. The Monroe car swung around and the door opened, throwing Leo Monroe out onto the pavement. The driver of the other car involved in the accident, 22-year-old Raymond Feliciano of San Francisco, was injured and 4-year-old Henry Rivera, who was riding with Feliciano, received slight injuries. Geraldine Beem, the Monroe’s nanny, said that Gena used to drive her to San Francisco to shop for the baby’s things. Geraldine said that Gena was a fast driver and that she was scared to ride with her. Mrs. Monroe received a slight leg laceration in the accident but Leo was practically scalped by the fall. He sustained a concussion, a fractured skull and broken ribs. The Redwood City Chief of Police investigated the accident and made out the report. Leo Monroe was taken to the Palo Alto Hospital where he died on Sunday, Nov. 30. He was buried at the Mount Carmel Cemetery in Aptos next to Resurrection Catholic Church. Gena continued to live in Aptos and to use her talents as an entertainer. In May 1942, a “Gay 90s” party was held by the Santa Cruz Women’s Club. Among the
many acts, Gena Monroe and Marilyn Marks appeared as Can Can dancers. Their number was judged to be the most colorful of the show. On Dec. 16, 1942, Gena Rea Monroe married Mel O’Keefe. Mel had been the manager of the country club and the Aptos Land and Water Company. Gena was 22 and Mel was 26 years old. At the time of their marriage, Mel was a private first class in the Army stationed at Fort Sam Houston in Texas. He was attached to the medical department at Brooke General Hospital. They were married in the Army Post chapel. Shortly after the wedding, Mel had to leave for Officer’s Candidate School. They had a daughter, Eugenia Marie, the following year. They continued to live at Shelbourne Farm in Aptos. Their daughter visited our museum last month. Don’t miss our “Swing into Spring” auction fundraiser Sunday, May 7 from 3-5:30 p.m. at the Best Western Seacliff Inn. The theme is “Movies Through the Ages.” Dress is casual but we would prefer that you dress up as your favorite movie star. There will be prizes for Best Costume. We plan on having at least two projectors showing a variety of old movies on the walls without sound, just to set the stage. There will be fabulous hors d’oeuvres, a no-host bar, free popcorn, and music from the Soquel High Jazz Band. The museum will also have special displays during the event. Please come join in the fun and help us keep the museum afloat. Tickets are $30. For reservations, please call 6881467.
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Bilingual curriculum developed for Castro Adobe Staff report WATSONVILLE — Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks announced it has developed bilingual curriculum detailing the California Mexican Rancho Period at the Castro Adobe State Historic Park in Watsonville. Friends will provide the materials free to educators via their website. Funded by a $3,000 grant from the California State Parks Foundation, the three-lesson English-Spanish curriculum utilizes Common Core standards to meet educational requirements for third- and fourth-graders. The curriculum was developed with assistance from Pajaro Valley teachers and State Parks interpreters.
“The Castro Adobe is a special place with a unique history in Santa Cruz County. Friends is dedicated to preserving this place and sharing its dynamic story,” said Bonny Hawley, executive director of Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks. “Providing resources for teachers and students is one way we are helping people learn more about the Castro’s history.” The curriculum includes background information on the native Ohlone, the Mission Period and focuses on the Mexican Rancho Period. The curriculum tells the story of the Juan Jose Castro family who resided at the San Andrés Castro Adobe in Watsonville during the Mexican Rancho Era from 1821-1850 when California was under Mexican rule. Prior to the Mexican
Rancho era, the Spanish established the California missions from 1769-1834 and changed the lives of the Ohlones as they assimilated into the emerging culture of the area. “These classroom lessons, combined with a class visit to the Castro, bring a slice of life on a California rancho to students right here in the Pajaro Valley,” State Parks Interpreter Joseph Carr Ritchie said. The curriculum, formatted as PDFs, is available free on the Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks’ website at www.thatsmypark. org/visit/resources. Castro Adobe State Historic Park, which is being restored, offers field trips to thirdgraders studying local history and fourthgraders studying the Rancho Period. The
Aptos history To the Editor, Your lovely picture of the historic general store/post office (also known as the Valencia Grange Hall) in the March edition of Aptos Life is mistaken in referring to it as the last two remnants of Frederick Hihn’s logging community of Valencia. For adjacent to the Hall lays a home and barn, dating from 1880 built with redwood trees milled at the Hihn’s Valencia Creek mill. For awhile the barn was used as a general store and later was used as an apple packing shed. The house, built by the Grow family, was the only home in the location of the hopedfor future village. The property also boasts the original apple orchard which sets an ambiance for participants of the grange hall events. We feel blessed and honored to live here. Amy Neiblum and Chris Tomkins Aptos
Contributed photo
state historic park is currently only open for prescheduled tours, monthly open house events and special celebrations. In the future, the park also will serve visitors interested in adobe architecture and preservation, and its adjacent Edna Kimbro Library and Archives — Center for Early California Studies will provide resources for scholars and visitors interested in the study of the cultural resources of early California. Free school tours of Castro Adobe State Historic Park are offered. The tours are 2.5 hours long. Visit www.thatsmypark. org/visit/field-trips to sign up, or contact Interpreter Joseph Carr Ritchie at Joseph. Ritchie@parks.ca.gov or 226-9669.
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LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 9
Financial Advice
Non-spouse beneficiaries of IRAs
By GARY E. CROXALL, CFP® and SOREN E. CROXALL, CFP® A situation that we have been seeing more and more of is people inheriting IRAs from loved ones. In this article, we will focus on non-spouse beneficiaries of IRAs. A couple of examples of this could be adult children inheriting an IRA from a parent, a brother inheriting an IRA from his sister, or a friend inheriting an IRA from a friend. Please note, we are not discussing spouses inheriting IRAs from spouses, entities inheriting IRAs (i.e. trusts named as beneficiary), or someone inheriting a workplace retirement plan. Those all have different rules and options related to them. However, if you find yourself the nonspouse beneficiary of an IRA, here are a couple of items to be aware of. • Understand Your Distribution Options – Typically, when someone inherits an IRA from a non-spouse, they mistakenly believe that their only option is to take
Aptos Library
the money as a lump sum distribution and pay 100 percent of the taxes in year one. However, taking a lump sum is just one of a few distribution options that are typically available to a non-spouse beneficiary. If the account owner passed away prior to age 70 1/2 the non-spouse beneficiary may have the option to elect what’s called the five-year rule. Essentially what that allows the beneficiary to do is take withdrawals as needed (or none at all) for five years. However, the entire account must be distributed by Dec. 31 of the fifth year after death. Distributed assets are subject to ordinary income taxes and taxable as such. A third option, and typically the most advantageous in the long term, is for the beneficiary to set up what’s called an Inherited IRA and use the life expectancy method. With an Inherited IRA, the beneficiary is required to begin taking required minimum distributions (and pay all applicable taxes on those distributions) from the inherited assets beginning by Dec. 31 in the year following the year of death of the original owner. What is nice about this option is the flexibility it provides the beneficiary. The IRS sets guidelines on the minimum that must be distributed each year, but the beneficiary can take out more than the minimum each year if their circumstances require it. However, perhaps the biggest advantage of an Inherited IRA
is that it allows the beneficiary to keep the remaining assets that are not required to be withdrawn each year in an account that can continue to potentially grow tax-deferred throughout the years. • Be Aware of Common Mistakes – If you are the non-spouse beneficiary of an IRA, the choices can seem daunting and it’s important to understand what you are doing because a mistake can potentially have irreversible consequences. A common mistake is for non-spouse beneficiaries to commingle the IRA assets they inherited with their own traditional IRA. This is not allowed, you must keep these assets separate. Another mistake seen is people improperly transferring Inherited IRA assets. If you have an Inherited IRA established at XYZ custodian, but would like to move the account to ABC custodian, it must be done via trustee-totrustee transfer, meaning the proceeds never touch your hands. The current custodian will make the check payable to the new custodian, not to you. Unlike with traditional IRAs that allow for one 60day rollover every 12 months, this is not allowed with Inherited IRAs. Being the beneficiary of an IRA creates a situation where you need to make decisions about how to receive that money. Since it usually comes as a result of the passing of a loved one or a close friend, it can be a
difficult time. Make sure you know your options and the tax consequences before you make a final decision. Work closely with a tax or financial professional and coordinate with the current custodian of the IRA. Although the custodians of IRAs are careful to not generally give tax advice, they can be very helpful in explaining what options you have available to you for receiving the inheritance.
ownership and taking charge. “Now we have a low water, beautiful garden complete with an ocean view,” he said. “It is kicking off the rebirth of the branch.” Additional help came from the Soquel Creek Water District, chamber members,
local nurseries and business leaders. “It’s a small look at what we can do with the partnerships in our community,” Friend said. “It made sense for them, and the first time the community has had the chance to have input on how the remodel will look.”
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. Diversification cannot ensure a profit or protect against a loss. The opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of NPC.
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approximately 150 sustainable plants planted. “The amount of work and energy it took — it’s been amazing,” Cabrillo College student and landscape designer Cammie Brown said. “It’s going to be for life.” Brown first was introduced to the project as an assignment for her sustainable horticulture class, and said she wanted to create a plant palette that will thrive in the area. “People will be drawn out there and
feel a sense of community,” she said of the garden. “A lawn is so unimaginative, this is more informed and such a beautiful look.” Supervisor Zach Friend said the Aptos Library is the second busiest branch in the county and its makeover is just what the community needs. More renovations and improvements are being planned for under Measure S funding, but the garden was funded independently. Overall, he said it is the result of a community group taking
Residential & Commercial Garage Doors & Openers • Tracy Armintrout – Owner
Office: 763-0563 Fax: 763-0636 Ofelia Garcia (right) of the Friends of the Aptos Library speaks to a crowd gathered to celebrate the opening of the walk-through garden at Aptos Library. Photo by Bek Sabedra
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MAY 2017
LIFE everything Aptos, Capitola and Soquel - 11
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
MAY 2017
May 5
May 13
May 19
May 23
Zach Friend Dinner & Roast The Capitola-Aptos Rotary, Supervisor Zach Friend and Leo’s Haven will hold the event at the Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Drive, Aptos from 5:30-9 p.m. Admission is $150 per plate and RSVP is required. All proceeds benefit Leo’s Haven. Contact De Camara Management to RSVP and for information at 688-0500, extension 27.
Migratory Bird Day 2017 Watsonville Wetlands Watch and the City of Watsonville Nature Center will be celebrating International Migratory Bird Day by holding free community events. From 8-10 a.m. join the Wetlands Watch at the Fitz Wetlands Education Resource Center, 500 Harkins Slough Road, for a walk along the paved East Struve Slough trail. From 1-4 p.m. visit the Nature Center at 30 Harkins Slough Road for a number of indoor activities. Visit watsonvillewetlandswatch.org or cityofwatsonville.org for information.
Art & Wine Auction Gala From 6-10 p.m. at the Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Drive, Aptos, join the Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce in honoring community leaders. Attendees will receive a commemorative 2017 Capitola Art & Wine Festival glass and enjoy tasting from Festival wineries, plus a dinner and no-host bar. There will be an awards presentation, raffle and silent auction. Tickets are $68. For information, call 475-6522.
Sons in Retirement Luncheon The Sons in Retirement will host their monthly luncheon at 11:30 a.m. at Severino’s Restaurant, 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos. Captain Carl Stewart, USN will discuss how Honor Flight brings veterans to D.C. to tour memorials. For information, call Jim at 708-4133.
May 7 Swing Into Spring Presented by the Aptos History Museum, “Swing Into Spring: Movies Through the Ages” will be held from 3-5:30 p.m. at the Seacliff Inn and Aptos History Museum. Dress up as a famous movie star to win prizes. There will be a silent auction, nohost bar, hor d’oeuvres and a performance by the Soquel High Jazz Band. Tickets are $30 for Chamber members and $35 for non-members. For reservations, call 6889514.
May 18 Delta High School Fundraiser From 5:30-8 p.m. come help benefit field trips for students at Delta High School. The second annual fundraiser will be held at the Sesnon House at Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos. Attendees may sip wine and Martinelli’s Cider and enjoy appetizers. The keynote address will be given by former Philadelphia Eagles football player Ron Johnson. For information, visit deltaschool.org or call 477-5212.
May 20 Mexican Dinner & Program The German-American Club of Santa Cruz will host a Mexican-themed dinner and program at their hall at 230 Plymouth St., Santa Cruz. The program will feature guest speaker Charlie Kieffer, a descendent of the Castro family, and his wife Patty. Doors open at 6 p.m. and dinner will begin at 6:30. Tickets are $15 for members and 20 for non-members. Make reservations by calling 722-4476 or 420-2084.
May 27-28 American Music Festival The Santa Cruz American Music Festival will return to Aptos for two full days of blues and American Roots music. The festival will be held Memorial Day Weekend in Aptos Village Park. Springtime tickets are available at santacruzamericanmusicfestival.com.
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