Aptos Times December 1st 2012

December 1 2012

C O M M U N I T Y N E W S T H AT M A K E S A D I F F E R E N C E

Vol 21 No. 23

Serving Aptos, La Selva Beach, Corralitos, Freedom, Watsonville, & Pajaro

Town Hall Metting at Aptos High

Asst Principal Moran (right) talks with a student after the panel Student alcohol and drug abuse statistics for the PVUSD presented and discussed on November 15

By Colleen Hughes

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Dr. Brian King stands in front of the site of the new theater construction at Cabrillo.

CABRILLO COLLEGE PRESIDENT MOVING ON Dr. Brian King Named Chancellor for Los Rios Community College District

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fter an exhaustive nationwide search, the Trustees on the Los Rios Community College District Board found what they were looking for right in their own back yard.

Dr. Brian King, president and superintendent of Cabrillo

College since 2004, has been named the Los Rios District Chancellor, replacing retired Chancellor Dr. Brice Harris.

The Los Rios District is the second largest community college district in the state, enrolling more than 80,000 stu-

dents at its four colleges — American River, Cosumnes River, Folsom Lake and Sacramento City.

During Dr. King’s tenure at Cabrillo, he presided over several faculty and administration changes as well as navigating

consecutive years of state budget cuts, while ensuring that the College continued to be successful at delivering its mission of providing high quality education and career training to the students of Santa Cruz County.

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n a first of a series of Town Hall Meetings at Aptos High School, 180 students and parents learned about substance abuse among our kids within PVUSD. On November 15, School Administrators, law enforcement, community resource educators and experts came together to educate parents on the harsh realities of alcohol and drug abuse.

The Town Hall Meeting is the brainchild of Asst. Principle Rich Moran “The goal of the Town Hall Meetings is to bring community awareness and education to students, parents and educators. What we want is to provide a safe place for all students to thrive.

Substance abuse on campuses affects the safety that students need in an academic environment and this issue is only a part of that.” Moran has been working on this project for almost two years and was pleased with the community turn out.

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Table of Contents

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Cover Cabrillo College President Moving On – Dr. Brian King Named Chancellor for Los Rios Community College District Town Hall Meeting at Aptos High – Student alcohol and drug abuse statistics for the PVUSD presented by Colleen Hughes

Community News

VOL. 21 NO. 23

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APTOS TIMES

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Think Local, Shop Local, We’re Local Too! Santa Cruz Chamber of Commerce Announces 2012 Community Recognition Award Honorees Five Personalized Presents for Your Gift-Giving • Bay Federal Credit Union Hires New Officials Cabrillo Stage Resurrects Marx Brother in Musical Farce ‘A Night At The Nutcracker’ Jack Guhin is Aptos’ Young Maverick By Cynthia Howe • ‘Start Smart’ Teenage Driver Program Innovative Ideas for Decking your Halls Cal State Dancers Featured at Cabrillo Winter Dance Concert • Online Retailers Must Now Collect State Tax by Betty T. Yee Secrets for Evading Holiday Weight Gain Android Smartphone Users: Be Aware of Malware and How to Avoid Attacks Measure L gets overwhelming approval by Noel Smith • “No Shoot Zone” for Eureka Canyon Area vote made

Sports Wrap 16 The Aptos Mariner’s Booster Club Filling the Education Gap with Hearts and Hands By Cynthia Howe

19 Aptos Football Team in CCS D-III Championship Game By Noel Smith Business Profile 22 New Life Community Service Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 26 & 27 Monthly Horoscope • Page 27 - Your December Horoscope Annabel Burton, Astrologer©

Featured Columnists 24 The Book Bag by Robert Francis – Pre-holiday reading for children awaiting Santa…

28 Beware of Water and Fire Disasters By Mike Conrad, Aptos La Selva Fire Protection District

30 Classical Reflection by Josef Sekon, DMA SPCA Featured Pet • Page 29 – Bessie wants to Moo-ve in With You

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CommunityNews

Think Local, Shop Local, We’re Local Too! T o truly make a difference in our community, it’s important to Shop Local and support local businesses. Why should we all Shop Local? The reason is that most donations of money, material and services to our community’s schools, the arts and to local non-profits come from local businesses and business owners. As a local business ourselves, TPG, Inc. helps local businesses by informing you about their goods and services, as well as what they are doing in and for our community.

So, remember to read the Aptos Times,

Capitola Soquel Times, Scotts Valley Times, Coastal Home & Garden, Coastal Wedding and the Holiday Gift Guide when looking to Shop Local… because, We’re Local Too! I

Sock Shop

Eye Shapes

Deer Park Wine & Spirits

The Village Mouse

Red Apple Café

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APTOS TIMES publisher

CoverStory “King” from pg 1

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Times Publishing Group, Inc. 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 The Times Publishing Group Inc., publishers of the Aptos Times, a bi-weekly publication, the Capitola Times and Scotts Valley Times, each printed monthly, Coastal Weddings Magazine, printed twice annually and Hospice Magazine, printed once annually, is owned by Patrice Edwards. Entire contents ©2012. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission.

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com mission statement We at the Times Publishing Group, Inc. are dedicated to providing a voice for the individuals and organizations in our community while highlighting the outstanding accomplishments of our local businesses. We seek to promote healthy family values through our coverage of youth activities, school news, senior events, community groups and entertainment.

“Cabrillo has been fortunate to have Brian’s leadership for the past nine years, almost twice the average term for a community college president,” said Alan Smith, chair of the Cabrillo College Governing Board. “As one of the leading community colleges in the state, Cabrillo’s outstanding staff, faculty and administration provided fertile ground for Brian’s successes as Cabrillo president and his selection as Chancellor at Los Rios. Brian has been a leader and catalyst for student success at Cabrillo and everyone at Cabrillo wishes him the very best.”

During his tenure at Cabrillo, Dr. King led the successful implementation of two bond measures that resulted in the construction of several new instructional facilities on campus.

In addition, he worked closely with Cabrillo College Foundation leadership to secure more than $20 million in funding from local and national donors for instructional programs and student scholarships.

He also led several student success initiatives, including the Santa Cruz County College Commitment (S4C), a countywide collaborative formed with the goal of increasing the college readiness and success of every student in Santa Cruz County.

Dr. King serves on numerous state organizations including: Board chair of the California Community College Athletics Association; board member of the Community College League of California Chief Executive Officers; and chair of numerous accreditation site visits for the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

Since it’s founding in 1959, Cabrillo College has upheld a tradition of close integration with the Santa Cruz County

Pastor René Schlaepfer of Twin Lakes Church gives his church's donation to Brian King, Cabrillo College President and 2007 Second Harvest Food Drive Chairman. community. At the local level, Dr. King is president-elect of the Santa Cruz Chamber of Commerce, is a board member of the Dominican Hospital, is a member of the Santa Cruz Business Council, and is a member of Santa Cruz Rotary.

“I have been proud to serve as Cabrillo’s president for the past nine years,” said King. “Cabrillo is an excellent community college with a strong reputation throughout the state, and the accomplishments we achieved together certainly helped me to secure the chancellor position at Los Rios. I will miss the wonderful people at Cabrillo College and within the Santa Cruz County community, but will

“I have been proud to serve as Cabrillo’s president for the past nine years. Cabrillo is an excellent community college with a strong reputation throughout the state, and the accomplishments we achieved together certainly helped me to secure the chancellor position at Los Rios. I will miss the wonderful people at Cabrillo College and within the Santa Cruz County community, but will look forward to working with them on statewide initiatives.”

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— Dr. Brian King, former President and Superintendent of Cabrillo College

look forward to working with them on statewide initiatives.”

Dr. King brings more than 20 years of community college teaching and administrative experience to his new position at Los Rios. From 1991 to 2004, he served in increasingly responsible positions at Ozarks Technical Community College in Springfield, Missouri where he rose from a faculty position teaching American government and business law to serving as vice president of administration and business.

“We were looking for a person with exceptional leadership skills and broad community college experience,” said Los Rios board president Ruth Scribner. “We found those qualities, combined with great personal integrity and a passion for student success, in Dr. King and we look forward to many years of his expert guidance at the helm of our district.”

Dr. King holds a B.A. in history from the University of Missouri, a J.D. from Duke University School of Law, and an Ed.D. in higher education from the University of Arkansas.

“It is a true honor to have been selected to lead such a great district,” King said.

“The excellent reputation of Los Rios, its programs, faculty and staff are what encouraged me to seek this position and I look forward to continuing and enhancing that reputation for years to come.”

Dr. King is expected to assume his new role of chancellor on February 1. Over the next several months, the Cabrillo College Governing Board will engage in a national search process to identify and name Cabrillo’s next president. I

CoverStory “Town Hall” from pg 1 Santa Cruz County Sherriff Nick Baldridge gave a power point presentation that presented the audience the statistics of alcohol and drug abuse among our youth.

Graphic images of teenagers who died of drug and or alcohol abuse were not for the faint of heart. He also showed pictures of different types of drugs and drug paraphernalia. Many kids have easy access to prescription drugs, which has become a big problem especially in affluent areas.

Baldridge told the audience not only the physical signs and symptoms to look for in our kids, but other evidence that might indicate drug use. “Kids are utilizing things from home as paraphernalia or hiding places. Pens without their plastic casing are used. The bottom of a “soda can” might have a fake bottom that is actually used to hide drugs.” Another indicator is valuable items missing from home.”

Assembly member Bill Monning said, “We know from national and state data that youth prescription drug use is a growing concern. Parents, neighbors, community leaders and policymakers are working together to generate greater awareness among youth about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse. All of need to continue to understand the complexities of this issue and work in partnership to promote effective long term strategies to empower youth and reduce attraction to drugs and alcohol.

The Town Hall Meeting at Aptos High is an excellent example of ways we can empower youth to recognize the life altering and tragic consequences of drug and alcohol abuse.”

The most startling statistics come from the kids themselves. Seventh through 12th graders took an anonymous survey (California Healthy Kids Survey) that covers a variety of issues from: did you have breakfast? to drug and alcohol use. The full report for all school districts in California can be found at http://wested.org.

Following are some startling statistics on the use of drug and alcohol abuse in the PVUSD. Percentages indicate use of 4 or more times in the past 30 days by the sample group.

Grade % Grade % Grade % Alcohol 7th 11% 9th 27% 11th 50% Marijuana 7th 10% 9th 20% 11th 35% Prescription Drugs 7th na* 9th 4% 11th 12% Heroin 7th na* 9th 2% 11th 3% Cocaine 7th na* 9th 3% 11th 7% *Not available Jenny Sarmiento, CEO of PVPSA (Pajaro Valley Prevention and Student

The Town Hall Panel meets Nov. 15 at Cabrillo College Assistance) said, “We now have a culture where kids are demanding their right to privacy and many parents are not standing up to this in their own homes”.

These words were echoed by Sherriff Nick Baldridge, “Parents need to enforce that this is their home and as parents they can search their child’s room or belongings.”

“Kids are bullying their parents with threats of calling authorities on them for child abuse” said Asst. Principle Moran.

The common message, it starts at home. Know your kid’s friends, where they are, check in, don’t be afraid to search their things. “Not my kid.” is a big part of the problem. Honor Roll students who are “good kids” aren’t exempt from substance abuse. Communication is key. Kids need to feel safe going to a parent to talk about issues.

Principle Casey O’Brien commented, “We have an assembly at the beginning of the year regarding school safety and rules and consequences. An agreement must be signed by both parent and student acknowledging expected behavior and subsequent consequences for not following the rules. There are other assemblies held throughout the year to address issues as they arise” Asst Principle for Guidance/Counselor Mark Rogers not only addresses the disciplinary side of the campus rules and consequences but opens up communication with the kids who in turn find that it is safe to confide in him with

issues of personal concern, be it drug abuse, bullying or home life. He also states that educating staff is part of their school plan.

Aptos High has an on campus police officer, Deputy Brain Erbe. Students also have access to an anonymous hotline called WeTip where they can call and report concerns or crimes on campus. That number is 1 (800) 78-CRIME. AHS has a great, multi-faceted system in place to create a safe place for students. So much time, energy and resources are put in place to make safety the top priority.

After the presentation, audience members broke up into groups to discuss issues from suggestions on policies to what can be done to contribute to as an individual.

This information was gathered by school administrators to view, address and help revise existing policy and assist in implementing new policy. I ••• Times Publishing will announce dates as they are provided for this three-part series of Town Hall Meetings. The next topic will be on Bullying (to be held after winter break).

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CommunityNews

Santa Cruz Chamber of Commerce Announces 2012 Community Recognition Award Honorees

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he Board of Directors of the Santa Cruz Chamber of Commerce has selected the following individuals and businesses as the recipients of its 2012 Community Recognition Awards:

Man of the Year Peter Prindle native of Santa Cruz, Peter Prindle has brought integrity, vision, hard work and a dedicated to his hometown to the tasks of building community. Pete worked first as teacher, counselor, and administrator in the public schools, beginning as a teacher’s aid, an elementary school teacher, a counselor at Aptos High, and an administrator in the Pajaro Valley Schools.

After his parents passed away in 1998 Peter and his brother Todd formed the Peter Prindle Prindle Management Company to manage the family’s commercial properties.

Throughout his life, he has worked as a volunteer and leader of community organizations and boards. He has held nonprofit board leadership positions with Long Marine Lab, UCSC Arboretum, the Santa Cruz Public Works Commission, LOBA, both the Sunrise Rotary and the Santa Cruz Rotary Clubs, the Downtown Management Corporation, the Cabrillo College President’s Circle board, and the Santa Cruz Chamber. He played important roles in the development of the Seymour Center, the formation of the Sunrise Rotary Club, and as the only two-term president of the Chamber.

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Woman of the Year Donna Murphy onna Murphy has worked at the heart of two Santa Cruz communities — the scholarship and culture of UC Santa Cruz and the safety-net services and social resources of the United Way and its member agencies.

Donna Murphy As the Vice Chancellor for University Advancement, she has brought the skills of an endowment development strategist for higher

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education (U. Oklahoma, Tulane University Health Science Center) and the sensibilities of a community organizer to UCSC. She has proven to be an ideal partner in the effort led by Chancellor George Blumenthal and former Mayor Ryan Coonerty to resolve long-standing disagreements and to forge a meaningful partnership between the university and the city for economic development, sustainable solutions to environmental problems, and shared investment. Donna has modeled this community engagement in her work in the community.

In addition to being a willing participant and committee member in dozens of community projects, including the Chamber’s Women in Business programs, Economic Development Council and a downtown retail study group, she has served on the United Way of Santa Cruz County board of directors for five years, chaired the annual United Way Campaign in 2009 and 2010, and is the 2012 United Way Board Chair.

Business of the Year Cruzio Internet ruzio, Santa Cruz’s premier Internet Service Provider (ISP), grew from an entrepreneurial notion of co-founders Peggy Dolgenos and Chris Neklason. Founded on the belief there should be a local public access Internet alternative, they started Cruzio in 1989 as a text-only bulletin board. As the World Wide Web was developed in the early 1990s and the first graphical browser launch in 1994 Peggy and Chris “quit their day jobs” and evolved their community bulletin board into an ISP. Competing effectively with multi-national communications companies as well as other local providers, Cruzio has become the ISP-of-choice for many local businesses and households. Cruzio serve more than 9,000 Santa Cruz County connections and have repeated been voted the “Best Internet Service Provider” and “Best Website” by the readers of local weeklies, Good Times and Santa Cruz Weekly.

Cruzio continues to lead local Internet development, most recently through their

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$500,000 investment in high-speed fiber optic resources connecting their operations center directly to a node in San Jose. Such connections are a critical piece of the economic infrastructure necessary to attract and retain technology companies. Cruzio has developed options to make these highcapacity resources available to many customers and is working with local governments to increase their reach.

In 2009 Cruzio diversified their business by purchasing a portion of the former Sentinel newspaper building at 877 Cedar Street, introducing expanded business services including a co-location data center and launching Cruzioworks Co-working office space.

Organizations of the Year The Tannery Art Center Project • The City of Santa Cruz Redevelopment Agency • Artspace Projects, Inc. • Tannery Arts Center, Inc. Director Ceil Cirillo hen faced with this economically important commercial site burdened with expensive environmental remediation requirements, complicated transportation investments and uncertain community support at the height of the dotcom recession, Ceil saw an art center campus. She organized a group to explore this notion and, with the unwavering support of the City Council, had by 2007, acquired the site, entered into an MOU with Artspace Projects to develop the campus, completed environmental remediation, and committed to a concept that included affordable housing for artists, studios, offices, and a performing arts and education center.

In 2007, construction was begun on the first phase, the construction of 100 units of housing for 260 artists and their families. In 2008 hundreds of artists lined up to apply for this housing. The resulting lottery filled the 100 studio-apartments (and a three-year waiting list) many months before the 2009 move-in date.

Despite the downturn in the economy and the unavailability of construction financing, the RDA took the lead in successfully applying for and receiving more than $7 million in state and federal grants to rehabilitate three of the remaining historic buildings on the site and to develop the

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Digital Media and Creative Arts Center/Working Studios (the Studios).

Phase II construction began in 2010 on the Studios and was completed in 2012 with a grand opening celebration featuring 52 local artists and 2,000 attendees celebrating opening of the Center and the lease up of the Studios. The RDA is currently completing construction on the Kron House office space, which is expected to become the new home for the Cultural Council of Santa Cruz County in early 2013. The final phase will convert the last Tannery building into a 200 seat performing arts. The Tannery Arts Center, Inc., is currently soliciting donations and grant funds to complete the funding necessary for this last element of the Center.

The Chamber’s 2012 Organization of the Year award is being shared not only by the three principal organizations responsible for the project but also by the literally hundreds of community volunteers, local government staff and City Council Members, and the many dozens of local artists who demonstrated their capacity – our communities’ capacity – to find creative solutions, to undertake complex projects, and to achieve extraordinary outcomes.

Entrepreneurs of the Year Five3 Genomics ive3 Genomics is the iconic entrepreneurial start-up for Santa Cruz’s future.

Three UCSC graduate students, Stephen Benz, J. Zachary Sanborn, and Charles Vaske, all working independently in genomics research in the laboratories of internationally recognized UCSC faculty members (Dr. David Haussler (Biomolecular Science & Engineering) and Dr. Joshua Stuart (Engineering)) realized that they could integrate elements of the work each was doing into a ground-break process.

The key product of their work makes it possible to efficiently compare genomes.

By converting the 3 billion base pairs that form every genome into a graphic representation, the process of identifying differences in these strings of genetic “code” can be done visually. One of the initial applications is the comparison of the genome as it appears in a healthy cell and in a cancerous cell.

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CommunityNews

Five Personalized Presents for Your Gift-Giving

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he holidays are a special time of year to show the important people in our lives how much we appreciate them – and that means gift-giving. If picking out holiday gifts is painless for you, you’re one of the lucky ones.

More often than not, people have a tough time finding the perfect present for friends and family, particularly if you have someone on your list that already seems to have everything. So, if you’re stumped as to what to get that impossible-to-buy-for person, consider these five gift ideas that are sure to brighten anyone’s holiday: Gift your services ather than giving a tangible item, give your services; it’s the perfectly practical gift for the person on your list that may be short on space, lacking financial resources or would just appreciate a little extra help.

Love kids? Offer free childcare so the recipient can enjoy an evening out on the town without worrying about the little ones.

Have a knack for cooking? Gift a weeknight meal that you deliver to the recipient’s doorstep. Known for your organization?

Offer your skills to help the recipient organize a closet, office or other cluttered space.

Make a miracle happen ositively impacting others by giving a charitable gift in the recipient’s name

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embraces the true meaning of the season.

The new Give Miracles Holiday Catalog from national nonprofit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals features indemand pediatric items and services that local children’s hospitals — anything from comforting teddy bears ($30) to a case of extra-small preemie diapers smaller than the palm of your hand ($170)! For high-impact gifts like a physical therapy toy kit ($375) or a pediatric wheelchair ($970), funds can be collectively raised by numerous gift-givers. This option is ideal for extended families looking to do something more meaningful than the typical gift exchange.

And to make that ‘do-good’ feeling for the recipient last long after the holidays are over, Give Miracles donors receive ongoing communication from Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals throughout the year about how their gift is making an impact at their local hospital. Browse the gift catalog at www.GiveMiracles.org.

Purchase a membership to a monthly club ather than wasting money on a new gadget that will quickly be forgotten, give a gift that benefits the recipient all year long.

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Bay Federal Credit Union Hires New Officials CAPITOLA — Bay Federal Credit Union has hired Geoff Caras as their new Chief Information Officer. Mr. Caras has an extensive background in information technology, business systems, project management, and strategic problem solving.

He has worked as the Chief Technical Officer (CTO) and General Geoff Caras Manager at The Igneous Group, Inc. and has held various positions with Monsoon Commerce, XAP Corporation, and Shop.com. Mr. Caras received his Bachelor of Science degree at UCSC. Bay Federal has also hired Patty Winters as their new Assistant Vice President of Human Resources and

Development. Mrs. Winters is a certified Professional in Human Resources and has 20 years of human resources/talent management, strategic development, finance, and operations experience in a variety of industries in the Silicon Valley, including the hightech and medical device segments. She was previously Patty Winters the Vice President of Human Resources and Administration of Vertical Circuits, Inc. I ••• Bay Federal Credit Union is a full-service financial institution that serves over 55,000 members and 1,000 local businesses throughout Santa Cruz, San Benito and Monterey Counties. Website: www.bayfed.com. www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 1st 2012 / 9

CommunityNews

Cabrillo Stage Resurrects Marx Brother in Musical Farce ‘A Night At The Nutcracker’ brings together song, slapstick comedy and the ballet for a zany Christmas treat

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abrillo Stage, the professional musical theatre company at Cabrillo College, concludes their 31st repertory season with the West Coast premiere of the musical farce A Night At the Nutcracker, playing December 14 through 30 at the Cabrillo Crocker Theater.

The Marx Brothers played havoc with the worlds of opera and horse racing. What if they’d had a crack at a ballet company?

The hilarity ensues in this musical comedy when the world’s greatest detective, Felix T. Filibuster teams up with Pinchie the silent butler and his Italian friend, Pepponi. Together they come to the rescue of Constance Stuffington, patron of the arts, whose fortune has been swindled away.

Can opening night of the city’s Nutcracker Suite Ballet be saved in time?

With slapstick comedy, one-liners, chases, beautiful girls, musical numbers and the craziest version of The Nutcracker you’ll ever see, A Night at the Nutcracker is a Christmas musical treat that’s fun for the whole family!

Audiences can expect to see their

favorite Cabrillo Stage actors, such as Nicholas Ceglio as Groucho (Felix T. Filibuster), Max Bennett-Parker as Chico (Pepponi) and Matt Dunn as Harpo (Pinchie). Andrew Ceglio directs the production, while Music Director Jon Nordgren conducts the full pit orchestra.

Evening with the authors —

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December 15! Don’t miss a rare treat to meet and talk with the authors of A Night At the Nutcracker, Billy Van Zandt and Jane Milmore, along with composer Ed

Alton, on Saturday, December 15. There will be a free reception open to the public, from 5:00 - 7:00 PM at the Cabrillo Sesnon House. Reception is limited to first 160 guests.

Please RSVP at www.cabrillostage.com.

After the evening’s performance, expect a lively Q&A at the post-show discussion with authors, actors and directors in the Crocker Theater. I ••• “A Night At The Nutcracker” Cabrillo Stage • December 14 – 30 Wednesday – Sunday evenings at 7:30 p.m., weekend matinees at 2:00 p.m. Cabrillo Crocker Theater, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA Tickets: Online at www.cabrillostage.com.

Staffed box office at 831-479-6154 starting November 27. Prices $20 - $40 (includes ticket fees).

Night with Authors: Saturday, December 15, 5:00 - 7:00 PM, Sesnon House. Please RSVP at www.cabrillostage.com for admittance.

“Presents” from pg 9 Monthly clubs provide fun deliveries to a loved one’s address, an ongoing reminder of your generosity. Monthly gift clubs are available for just about anything, from wine and beer, to jams and cheese, to bacon and fruit.

Give a gift that grows otted plants are a fantastic gift idea because they represent how your love continues to grow for that special someone.

Plus, plants are a wonderful addition to interior decor and help clean the air. With so many houseplants readily available, you’re sure to find the perfect one for the person who has everything. Does he gravitate toward decor with vivid color? Choose a flowering plant that provides delightful blooms. Does she love Asian culture? How about gifting a bonsai tree or a bamboo plant?

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“Awards” from pg 8 By identifying how the genomes of healthy and diseased cells differ, researchers expect to identify treatments that are successful in destroying those that contain anomalous genomes.

Of course, great ideas don’t necessarily become successful businesses. Stephen, Zachary, and Charles succeeded in part because of their interest in commercializing this process. One of the things that makes Five3 Genomics’s story heartening is its successful use of local entrepreneurial resources.

In addition to the unparalleled experience of working in the genomics laboratories under the tutelage of some of the most-recognized genetics researchers in the world, they used UCSC’s “VC one-toone” program to meet with venture capitalists, eventually meeting Dr. Patrick Soon Shiong who provided working capital for the enterprise. They also got support from Peter Koht in the City’s Economic Development and rented their first office, a carrel at NextSpace, which quickly grew into a small office and then a large office there. They met the principals of a local design group, Octopus Creative, who not only put together their business website but also helped them develop the visual aspects of their analysis software.

This first Entrepreneurs of the Year award recognizes the achievement of Stephen Benz, J. Zachary Sanborn, and Charles Vaske in converting their experience, knowledge, and entrepreneurial courage into Five3 Genomics.

Lifetime Achievement Award Bruce Woolpert – GraniteRock ruce Woolpert was a man of extraordinary gifts: a powerful intellect and scholar, an inspiring leader, a creative business executive, a dedicated friend, a steward and

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Provide an experience ften, it’s not what’s in the box, it’s the memory that stays with so many people after the holidays have passed. That’s why giving a special experience can make a truly meaningful gift. Think about what really interests the recipient or an activity they’ve had on their bucket list. Perhaps it’s a hot air balloon ride or a white water rafting daytrip. If the person really loves to shop, hire a personal shopper for the day and let them see what it’s like to live like a star. If the recipient loves gourmet food, purchase a spot in a class taught by your town’s hottest chef.

Any one of these ideas is sure to show that hard-to-shop-for person on your list that you’ve put some real thought into their gift. And ultimately, isn’t it the thought that counts? I Brandpoint Media

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visionary for his community. His life-long dedication to improving his hometown of Watsonville and his investment in Santa Cruz County, especially his work to improve its education programs and its economic environment are unparalleled.

A native of Bruce Woolpert Watsonville, he took over the family business, GraniteRock in 1986 and elevated it to become not just a remarkable local company but a nationally recognized model. The first small business to receive the coveted Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award in 1992, under Bruce’s leadership GraniteRock attracted recognition for decades, including Fortune 500’s “Best Places to Work in America,” the California Governor’s Golden State Award, and, for Bruce, selection by Fortune Small Business magazine as a “Best Boss.”

Presentation of the Awards he award winners will be recognized at the Chamber’s Annual Recognition Dinner, November 30, 2012 at the Cocoanut Grove. This dinner has brought business and community leaders together to celebrate the work and honor the contributions of the sustainers and stewards of Santa Cruz for more than 120 years.

This year’s recipients join a distinguished group of Santa Cruz County leaders. Past honorees include century-old Santa Cruz family and business names like Bargetto, Haber, Leask, McPherson, Ow, and West as well as many of our contemporaries who continue to be key contributors such as Baskin, Mathews, Nickelson, Cirillo, Rebele, Packard and the Seaside Company, Granite Rock, O’Neill, Redtree Properties, the Cultural Council, Goodwill, and United Way. I

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CommunityNews

Jack Guhin is Aptos’ Young Maverick

By Cynthia Howe

ith every opportunity there is a views and inquiries to these programs, his measure of tension. Jack Guhin interest centered on a certain young man. understands the balance When Brock made the call in October 2011 between the stress and joys of opening the he knew he had found his young stuntdouble, he found Jack. doors of possibilities, and he’s only ten.

Jack is 4’8” tall, with blue eyes and When Jack got the phone call from Brock Little he was excited, but a bit nerv- quick wit. Upon meeting him, you know ous, much like the parade of emotions you have met a unique, bright and energetic young man: a roller coasters proworth duce. Little is a pro“The world is all gates, character knowing and watchfessional surfer first, all opportunities, strings ing. and a professional As he shared his stunt artist and actor of tension waiting to be experience, it was second. His work as struck.” clear he wanted to the stunt coordinator — Ralph Waldo Emerson pursue other opporfor “Chasing tunities in life as this Mavericks” led him to our local Santa Cruz lifeguards and the adventure had left him with an appreciaJunior Life Guard programs in hopes of tion for the unexpected experience.

“I met a lot of really nice people and I finding a stunt double for the young actor, Cooper Timberline, who plays Jay learned a lot,” Jack shared.

The filming began in December and Moriarity in the film. After selective inter-

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they finished in February. The days were long, hard, and arduous. Jack suffered through cold, wet days, often spending hours in the water reshooting a scene until it all came together.

“At one point I’m sure he had hypothermia,” Jack’s dad shared. “But he got through it. He was a real trooper”.

Jack’s dad remembers the Moriarity days of Santa Cruz surfing, and is an avid surfer as well. He was the first one to take Jack out and teach him how to surf over two Jack (right) on set with Cooper Timberline (young Jay lead) years ago. Jack has also enjoyed participating in the Junior another project. He’s also open to other Guards program and has won the Future opportunities that might challenge him, Life Guard award twice at Seacliff. either athletically or creatively. One thing However, surfing is not his only passion. he’s learned for sure, no matter how young “I think Jack’s first love is baseball,” or old you are, challenging yourself to Jack’s dad shared. “He’s on a select travel experience something different may be a little stressful, but it might just be the time team and he really enjoys it.”

Jack is currently in discussions for of your life! I

‘Start Smart’ Teenage Driver Program

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Jack on set with the other two stunt doubles (Jay’s and Frosty’s), both world class surfers 12 / December 1st 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

he California Highway Patrol is offering a traffic safety program for teenage drivers and their parents.

The Start Smart Program is aimed at helping future and newly licensed teenage drivers become aware of the responsibilities that accompany the privilege of being a licensed California driver. The program is designed as an educational tool for parents and teenagers in an effort to reduce the number of teenage injuries and deaths resulting from traffic collisions.

Traffic collisions are the leading cause of death for 15-20 year olds. The primary objective of the program is to provide teens and parents with an understanding of how poor choices behind the wheel can affect the lives of numerous people. The Start Smart program also provides teens and parents with information on defensive driving, traffic laws in California, dynamics of traffic collisions, tips on avoiding

traffic collisions, and DUI awareness.

Smart Start classes are free of charge.

The next class will be on Tuesday, December 18, at 6:30 p.m. at the Santa Cruz Police Department Community Room at 155 Center Street. I For more details, and to make a reservation, please call the Santa Cruz CHP Office at (831) 662-0511.

CPT

Private Fitness Training Studio

Getting back to it...

Specializing in BOOMER Fitness www.suesmythefitness.com 7965 Soquel Drive, Aptos • 688-4528

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 1st 2012 / 13

CommunityNews

Innovative Ideas for Decking your Halls T he holiday season doesn’t have to always involve the same old, same old when it comes to decorating your home.

Take a few ideas from John Griffith. As the lead visual merchandiser for Replacements, Ltd., he spends the entire year scouting and developing innovative tips and techniques to deck the halls and trim the perfect tree. So far, Griffith’s team has adorned nearly a dozen trees throughout company’s retail store. Each tannenbaum is a story in itself, defined by color and style and unique looks created by combining ornaments with what some might consider nontraditional trimmings.

“So many people settle for simply hanging ornaments on their trees, but there is so much more you can do by adding fillers that really reflect your own personal taste and style,” says Griffith. “Mixing in ribbon, fabrics, florals, feathers and other

Fashion tree branches to create decorative swags. natural elements create flair and personality. Adding extra flourishes in the right

places can make the difference between a pretty tree and an extraordinary tree.”

Griffith says the hot colors for holiday 2012 range from soft pastels to rich jewel tones. Popular ornaments this season reflect the Victorian era, with glittering gemstones and rhinestones being extremely popular.

Add in ribbons, florals and beads to complement holiday ornaments.

14 / December 1st 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

And don’t be afraid to forgo the traditional tree topper. Instead, consider using twigs or other natural elements arranged out of the top of your tree. Griffith has even strategically placed a tree beneath a chandelier for extra glow.

If you don’t have enough room for a traditional sized tree, corner trees or the flatter profile trees are an excellent fit for smaller spaces. Or, Griffith suggests you may want to go in an entirely different direction.

“I am into repurposing and recycling, so I took the branches of an old artificial tree and wired them together to create swags, and then decorated those with combinations of fabrics, bows and ornaments,” he says. “You can hang swags on a mantel or place them on top of a door frame.

They’re a fun family project, and you can even create them with different color stories or themes for each room in your home.”

Griffith literally has thousands of ornaments at his fingertips. While most people know Replacements as the world’s largest retailer of old and new china, crystal, silver and collectibles, the company has a vast selection of ornaments from around the globe. These range from colorful blown glass to crystal and highly collected silver.

“As individuals, we chose ornaments for so many different reasons. Decisions may be driven by color or theme, but many choices are shaped by past and future traditions,” says Keith Winkler, the company’s product marketing manager.

“Many people reach back to ornaments that remind them of their childhood, while others are looking to start their own traditions with annual collectible ornaments.

For instance, Wallace Silver makes an annual sleigh bell, while Gorham Silver releases an annual snowflake. These have been in production for more than four decades and are a great tradition to add every year.”

Winkler says popular dinnerware manufacturers including Lenox, Wedgwood and Waterford all offer ornament lines. For those looking for popular blown glass, he suggests the Merck Family’s Old World Christmas line. Those ornaments run the gamut from traditional holiday figures, to birds, sports teams, and pretty much any theme you can imagine.

If you are interested in more ideas, you can find decorating and entertaining tips at www.replacements.com, while Replacements will post additional ideas throughout the upcoming holiday season on its Facebook page. I Brandpoint Media

SportsWrap

The Aptos Mariner’s Booster Club Filling the Education Gap with Hearts and Hands

By Cynthia Howe

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ithin the current world economy, when the education of our youth demands so much, and our state and local economy provides less and less, community groups of dedicated individuals are essential to the success of our schools, programs, clubs and athletic teams. The local Aptos Mariner’s Booster Club has provided a tremendous benefit to our Aptos schools, and they’re not finished yet.

The key members of this year’s Aptos Mariner’s Booster Club includes Eileen Shea, President; Michelle Guzman, Vice President; Patti Rodriguez, Treasurer; and Laura Junod, eScrip Coordinator.

The board is complimented by an amazing group of volunteer parents that support the Club and the events they represent or produce, such as Back to School

16 / December 1st 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Night, selling Mariner Wear, the popular “Drive for Schools” program, eScrip, the Zumba-thon, Cowboy Dinner Dance, Chili Cook-off and silent Auction.

This year they have raised over $29,750, and the first semester isn’t over yet. Last school year they raised a total of $45,565. Over the last two and a half years, they have provided over $100,000 for various academic programs, athletic teams and clubs at Aptos High School.

Shea, this year’s president of the Aptos Mariner’s Booster Club said, “Over the last two and a half years we have contributed $34,000 to technology, $20,000 to help resurface the track, purchase new uniforms and buy new equipment for various teams.

“Boosters” > 19

18 / December 1st 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

SportsWrap

Aptos Football Team in CCS D-III Championship Game

By Noel Smith

or the second straight game, the field on a final drive that took them 86 “Cardiac Kids” won by holding off yards to the Mariners 3 yard line with less their opponent in the last few sec- than a minute left. A holding call on onds. In their 34-31 win over No. 1 rated Saratoga took them back to the 25 and then Monterey, it was a missed 45 yd field goal Alec Bonsall sacked the Falcons’ quarterby the Toreadores that sealed the win and a back on fourth down to ice the Mariners’ trip to the championship game against win.

This will be the first time since 2003 Valley Christian.

With 28 points scored in the 4th that Aptos finds itself in the Championship quarter, it took a turnover by Aptos on a game. Go Mariners!! fumble in the red zone with 56 seconds left to start the hearts pumping.

Monterey started marching down the field starting at their own six and ending on the 28 yd line of Aptos. The Aptos defensive secondary then came through by breaking up two of the three incomplete passing attempts leading to the missed field goal and victory for the Mariners.

In the previous weeks 28-24 first round victory over Saratoga, the Falcons The Mariners’ Elijah Marta (8) rushes for a first down against were marching down the Monterey.

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“Boosters” from pg 16 The balance has helped fund: scholarships; a new storage shed for sports equipment; a new mascot; the Robotics Team ROV; microphones for the Drama club; a class set of Huck Finn for the English Department; equipment for the Football snack shack; the World Language online magazine for the campus, and many other school programs and classroom needs.

“We raised $13,000 alone with the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Capitola Auto Mall Dealer Group’s ‘Drive for Schools’ program.” Shea shared enthusiastically. “We really want to invite the community, parent or not, to come and join us and share in the fun!”

The Aptos Mariner’s Booster Club has numerous hopes and dreams for the school, and it all begins with the heart and hands of the community.

“My hope is that the community comes to know what we do and how they might help us in our endeavors,” said Shea, “But my passion is the “100% mark”, that is, that we might be able to fund, at the requested amount, all the teams and special groups that come to us.”

Every year the Aptos Mariner ’s

Aptos (10-2) will meet Valley Christian (6-6) on Saturday, Dec. 1 for the Central Coast Section Division III title at 3:30 p.m. at Independence High (1776

Educational Park Drive San Jose, CA 95133) I Visit www.tpgonlinedaily.com for more photos

Booster club has been met with numerous requests for funding. While they consistently commit a portion of the group’s request, they cannot meet it entirely. Principal Casey O’Brien shares their passion, and is challenging community members to get involved.

“I encourage any community member, (and of course any Aptos High or Junior High parent) who wants to give back in a positive and fun way, to get involved!”

Casey stated.

Principal O’Brien, like the rest of the Booster members, contributors, families, staff and students alike are thankful. They know and appreciate the legacy of Aptos generosity.

“I want to thank the many, many, many parents, community members and businesses who have donated their time and resources over the years in support of Aptos High, shared Principal O’Brien. I ••• For more information about the Aptos Mariner’s Booster Club, visit them at: www.aptoshs.net/boosters. If you would like to contribute with your time, talent or taxdeductible donation please e-mail Eileen Shea at: aptosboosterclub@gmail.com, or contact her at 786-9115. Their mailing address is: Booster Club; 100 Mariner Way; Aptos, CA 95003. www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 1st 2012 / 19

20 / December 1st 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

CommunityNews

Cal State Dancers Featured at Cabrillo Winter Dance Concert Nov. 30 through Dec. 1 at the Cabrillo Crocker Theater

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he Cabrillo College Dance Department is proud to present their annual winter concert, an evening of original and diverse dance works created by guest, faculty and invited student choreographers.

Cabrillo student dancers will perform exuberant new choreography in an exciting mix of contemporary techniques and styles, from popping and locking to postmodern physical theater.

This year’s concert features special performances by members of the Cal State East Bay Touring Company with choreography by CSUEB dance professor Nina Haft.

Local choreographers creating work for the concert include Robert Kelley, David King, Amy Farhood, Cid Pearlman, Molly Katzman, Holly Lampe, and Dixie FunLee Shulman.

The dances on the program showcase the variety of dance forms taught at Cabrillo, from ballet to Hip Hop. The Cabrillo Winter Dance Concert gives students an opportunity to participate in the

artistic process of dance making and practice performing in front of hundreds of audience members. This year, eleven of the dancers have had the opportunity to work with Robert Kelley, the director of Santa Cruz Ballet Theater.

The concert will also feature new work by choreographer and FLEX Company member Molly Katzman.

Cabrillo faculty members David King and Cid Pearlman, who co-produce the concert, are each creating a new works for this year’s concert as well. Amy FarhoodSterling brings together students from her Watsonville and Aptos classes in her exciting Salsa extravaganzas. I ••• The Cabrillo Winter Dance Concert Friday & Saturday, November 30 & December 1 at 7:30 PM Matinee Sunday, Dec. 2 at 2 p.m.

Cabrillo Crocker Theater, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos Tickets: $14 General, $12 Students/Seniors, $10 Student Activity Card.

Available on the Internet or by phone at www.cabrillovapa.com or 831-479-6154

Online Retailers Must Now Collect State Tax Betty T. Yee, Member, First District State Board of Equalization

A Little Center With

A Lot of Class!

Plenty of Free Customer Parking

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lack Friday officially kicks off the holiday shopping season this year, with Cyber Black Friday expected to post higher sales over last year. Online shoppers accounted for nearly 40% of the $52.4 billion spent during the Black Friday weekend last year, according to the National Retail Federation.

During Cyber Black Friday and throughout the holiday season, online retailers will offer one day specials and numerous other deals to entice consumers to do their holiday shopping from the comfort of their home. Online retailers also will collect California sales tax.

Effective September 15, most large, out-of-state online retailers must collect tax from California consumers at the time these consumers make their online purchases. This means consumers will see tax collected with their internet purchases as they as complete the sale online, in the same way tax is collected when they visit a local store. However, it is important to remember that even with the new law, consumers still may have use tax obligations if they make purchases from small online retailers who are not covered by the law.

Paying the tax at the time of purchase

Photo Credit: Beau Saunders

Aptos Village Skin & Body Care

Yoga Within Exploring the mind-body connection 687-0818

A skin care center 688-4541

Joy of Movement Pilates & Gyrotonic®

Wilder Associates Inc.

More zest for life

Property Management Specialist

688-8077

662-0291

Warmboard Radiant Subfloor

Salon Aptos Hair and nails for a good look

Simply smarter radiant heat

688-8804 will reduce the number of sales consumers need to keep track of and report themselves. However, if consumers do not see a line item for the sales tax, they are still responsible for paying it on their own.

Visit the BOE website for more information about California Use Tax. Collection of tax by online retailers at the time of purchase levels the playing field and removes the competitive advantage online retailers have had over local merchants for years. It is estimated that $1.1 billion in use tax goes uncollected each year. This revenue is essential to support vital public programs and services for all of us. I

685-9275

Village Liquors For all your beverage needs 688-5691

Epicenter Cycling Trek bicycles for all types of riders 662-8100

Dentistry for Animals Dr. Judy Force, DVM 768-7148

APTOS

STATION

SELECT SHOPPING / APTOS VILLAGE www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 1st 2012 / 21

BusinessProfile

NEW LIFE COMMUNITY SERVICEs I

n 1972, a group of concerned Santa Cruz citizens set out to help the unserved homeless and addicted in our community. They began by counseling on the street and providing shelter in their own homes, but eventually expanded to their present day facility on the West side.

For the last four decades, they have quietly offered affordable drug and alcohol treatment to tens of thousands, as well as millions of nutritious meals to needy children, families and individuals, and hundreds of thousands of shelter nights for families with children.

As the oldest family shelter and addiction treatment program in our area, New Life Community Services (New Life) has grown to become a well-established family of services throughout Santa Cruz County.

In addition to the state licensed alcohol and drug treatment program and family shelter, New Life also operates Stratton Counseling Services which provides affordable counseling to individuals and families at a satellite location. New Life also provides training for local university and graduate students who are seeking certification in addiction counseling or licensing as Marriage and Family Therapists.

Last year alone, New Life provided over 10,000 days of residential treatment to more than 200 clients; over 2000 days of shelter to more than 100 client families with children; and over 112,000 meals out of its kitchen. New Life depends on a staff of just 6 full-time employees, 20 part-time employees and 15 volunteers to carry out its mission.

New Life is accessible and affordable in comparison to other treatment providers.

While the average 30-day residential treatment costs a minimum of $8,000 in Santa Cruz County, New Life’s treatment is affordable for those with even minimum wage jobs and no insurance. Due to a subsidized sliding scale, full residential treatment for six months including meals, housing, counseling and education costs less

The children’s play area at New Life

New Life Community Service staff

than $900 per month for an individual making minimum wage. Clients can continue their full-time jobs while participating in treatment. New Life effectively utilizes both traditional and evidence-based substance abuse treatment strategies, all integrated with the 12-step community.

New Life uniquely focuses on families with children whether providing shelter services for a desperate family or simply keeping an entire family together during treatment so each member can receive the professional counseling they need.

Current economic conditions have dramatically impacted New Life’s budget which is supported heavily from the Santa Cruz community. With significant cuts in traditional state and county programs, New Life has become an even more important safety net for families, individuals and children who have few options for assistance. During the months of November and December, New Life is conducting its annual Call to Care Campaign.

22 / December 1st 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

This year, New Life needs additional contributions to help meets its operating budget for next year. Currently, New Life has a $24,000 challenge grant that will double all contributions up to that amount before January 1st. Your tax-deductible contribution, made at www.CalltoCareCampign.org will go a long way in allowing New Life to continue to provide these critically needed services.

Families in crisis often just need temporary housing in a safe and caring environment in order to get back on their feet, and you can be a part of that. How exactly will a contribution help? Generous contributions in any amount will allow an individual or family to begin a New Life, built on a long-term solution — not a quick fix.

Even small donations will help cover costs for food, clean bedding, hygiene products, and a warm environment during the winter.

If the public is interested in learning

more about New Life, asking questions, or touring its facilities, there are bi-weekly open house events that consist of a onehour walk and talk presentation. At these open house events, participants will hear from a board member, a successful graduate of our program, and also receive a behind the scenes guided tour. You may visit New Life’s website for more information on attending an open house at www.NewLifeSC.org or call (831) 427-1007 for more information This holiday season, you can also buy your Christmas tree from New Life Community Services and support those in recovery. Come select your top-quality Christmas Tree with the family at this nonprofit event. The lot will be open from Nov. 26th to Dec. 25th at 3020 Thurber Lane, Santa Cruz about 1 block East of Dominican Hospital on the corner of Soquel & Thurber. Hours are Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 8 PM and Saturday and Sunday 9 AM to 8 PM. I

CommunityNews

Secrets for Evading Holiday Weight Gain D T he holidays are full of fun activities, tasty treats and plenty of celebration, but being busy and eating all the extras can quickly lead to weight gain.

With a few key strategies, it’s surprisingly easy to enjoy the season to the fullest and still avoid Santa’s extra bulge.

Dr. Christopher Mohr is a fitness and nutritional expert who consults for television, print and radio outlets throughout the country. He understands the difficulties of staying health-focused during all the festivities. Mohr offers some good reminders and unique insights on how to avoid gaining extra weight during the holidays.

Eat quality calories oo many people think that to avoid weight gain you need to avoid calories.

In reality, you need to eat calories to stay healthy, but you need to focus on quality calories,” says Mohr. “Choose foods that are packed with vitamins and nutrients, rather than just empty calories.”

Seek out ‘real’ foods for snacks and meals over processed junk foods full of salt, unhealthy fats, and sugar. The fresher the better, because when foods are minimally processed, they typically retain higher levels of vitamins and minerals. For example, skip the bag of chips and snack on fresh fruits and veggies.

When possible, cook meals at home where you can control the ingredients and reduce unhealthy extras like butter, salt and oil.

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Manage stress and focus uring the holidays, people tend to try to do too much. This quickly leads to stress, which can have many unhealthy consequences, including overeating and weight gain. Being extremely busy also can lead to convenience eating, where you hit up the nearest fast food restaurant to save time, rather than head home to cook a nutritious meal.

“Remember to stay focused during the holiday season and take breaks,” reminds Mohr. “If you’re too stressed, you will be more likely to eat unhealthy foods and get less sleep. That combination may compromise your immune system. The last thing you want is a few extra pounds and a bad cold at the conclusion of the holidays.”

Support a healthy metabolism n order for your metabolism to function as efficiently as possible, you need to fuel your body regularly,” Mohr explains.

“That means you need to eat balanced meals and take supplements that support your metabolism.”

He advises to never skip breakfast, no matter how busy you are. Breakfast jumpstarts your metabolism and helps it function well all day. Additionally, consider taking a fish oil supplement that supplies the body with essential omega-3 fatty acids. “Studies show that omega-3s support a healthy metabolism,” Mohr says.

“People generally know about the health benefits of omega-3s to brain and cardiovascular health, but they are surprised to

find out a high-quality fish oil supplement helps keep your metabolism functioning well.”

Indulge strategically eprivation isn’t a good weight-loss strategy, and it certainly isn’t much fun during the holiday season. Instead of avoiding all the candy, cookies, and rich foods served at festive gatherings, think of your own personal strategy before you go to an event,” Mohr says.

He suggests picking just one item you love, such as Granny’s apple pie or Aunt Jude’s stuffing, and let that be your onetime no-guilt holiday indulgence. In

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exchange, cut out other extras you don’t like as much. Remember, just because it’s being served doesn’t mean you need to eat it. Cut out high-calorie items like sauces and gravies, and holiday beverages like cocoa and eggnog. You’ll get to enjoy that one item you look forward to all year and, by avoiding others you care less about, you won’t risk holiday weight gain.

Celebrating the season to the fullest doesn’t mean you need to end the year with a few extra pounds. Follow these expert tips and you’ll enjoy the holidays and start 2013 looking and feeling healthy. I Brandpoint Media

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 1st 2012 / 23

FeaturedColumnist The Book Bag by Robert Francis

The Book Bag

Pre-holiday reading for children awaiting Santa …

by Robert Francis

It’s a Small World Christmas Around the World

By Calliope Glass Illustrated by Susan Chen Fang Disney Press. $5.99 (Ages: 3 and older) s you page through this picture book you’ll see that children around the world celebrate Christmas in different ways. While Katie is decorating the family Christmas tree in New York, a little boy in Holland is setting out his wooden clogs so that Sinterklaas will fill them with walnuts, candies and small gifts.

You’ll see South African children singing carols by candlelight, youngsters in Mexico attacking a piñata filled with candy, and some little girls in Sweden carefully wearing wreaths with candles as they serve hot chocolate and lussekatt to their family members on Santa Lucia morning.

Other holiday customs in places like South Korea, Brazil, France and Australia are also shown. There is also a page of stickers included with the book so you can decorate the Christmas tree, place gifts where you like and move the children representing each country from one page to another.

The stickers do pose a choking hazard for very young children so please be careful.

On the book’s final page, you’ll also learn how to say “Merry Christmas!” in seven different languages. So, greet friend and family with a hearty “Ookissiemoossie ohmooheelay!” or “Vrohlick keerstfeast!”

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Just Right for Christmas

By Birdie Black Illustrated by Rosalind Bearshaw Nosy Crow/Candlewick, $15.99 (Ages: 3 and older) story about the joy of giving, this picture book begins on Christmas Eve when a king sees some beautiful red cloth

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and purchases it so that his sewing maids can make a lovely cloak for the princess.

This is where the story really becomes interesting.

The cloth scraps are bundled up and placed outside the castle door.

The castle’s kitchen maid finds the red cloth scraps and takes them home to make her mother a jacket.

And so it goes. A badger who takes them to make a hat for his father discovers the remaining cloth scraps.

A squirrel finds what remains of the cloth and makes a pair of gloves for his wife. Finally, a little mouse finds just a little red scrap left and thinks that it would make the perfect scarf for her son.

On Christmas Day, everyone opens their gifts and finds a beautiful red garment or hat. Not only is all the red cloth put to good use, but everyone agrees that this is how Christmas should feel.

Don’t be surprised if this special Christmas story becomes a family favorite in the years to come. Not only is every scrap of cloth put to excellent use, but all the characters felt good about the gifts they made from this wonderful, red cloth.

Santa Retires

By David Biedrzycki Charlesbridge. $7.99 (Ages: 4-7) hristmas is over and an exhausted Santa and Mrs. Claus decide to take a little vacation. Off they go to a tropical paradise called Mistletoe Island. From the minute they set foot on the island, Mr. and Mrs. Claus are delighted with the weather, fun activities and delicious food.

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24 / December 1st 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

When his reindeer come for a visit, Santa drops a bombshell. He is going to retire and become a beachcomber. Now what’s going to happen back at the North Pole? Will there even be a Christmas without Santa? Who will step in and oversee the toy making?

These are all good questions. You’ll find the answers when you read this companion book to “Santa’s New Jet.” Young children will love this humorous story and the big, bold illustrations.

Santa Paws 2 (The Santa Pups) Adapted by Catherine Hapka Disney. $4.99 (Ages: 7 and older) ix months before Christmas, Mr. and Mrs. Santa Paws celebrated the arrival of their four pups. Now, with just three weeks before Santa starts his journey to deliver toys, the rambunctious pups (Hope, Charity, Jungle, and Noble) are making a nuisance of themselves in the toy workshop as the elves try to finish their work.

Determined to show that they are ready to assist in the preparation, the pups hatch a plan to “borrow” some of Santa’s magic crystals and visit Pineville where they will grant as many Christmas wishes as they can.

Things get slightly out of hand, though, when the Santa Pups accidentally grant a little boy named Carter his holiday wish, which is to make Christmas go away.

Oh, no!

With the help of Mrs. Claus, the wellmeaning pups are going to have to figure out how to reverse their magic or December 25th won’t be a very merry day.

This chapter book features eight pages of color photos from the Disney movie featuring these cute little pups.

Proficient young readers will find this a

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fun read and one they’ll want to share with their friends.

Christmas at the Toy Museum

By David Lucas Candlewick Press. $15.99 (Ages: 3 and up) t’s Christmas Eve at the Toy Museum but all the toys are in for a big surprise.

When the museum closes and everyone has left, the toys all g a t h e r around the Christmas tree and are shocked to discover there are no gifts under the tree.

That’s w h e n Bunting, an old toy cat, comes up with an excellent idea. “Let us not be downhearted!

Why don’t we all give one another ourselves?” What a splendid idea! The toys all agree and begin wrapping one another in festive holiday paper.

Soon there are lots of gifts under the tree. When Christmas morning arrives, the fun begins as the unwrapping starts. The last person unwrapped is Bunting.

Unfortunately, there is no one left for the poor old cat to unwrap. That means he doesn’t have a present! How sad!

At this point, the angel atop the Christmas tree intervenes. She flies down from her perch and gives Bunting a very, very special golden box tied with a golden ribbon.

What’s in the box? Sorry, you’ll have to read the book to find out!

This clever picture book stresses the idea that it is better to give than receive and isn’t that what Christmas is all about?

You’ll love the illustrations of all the toys and the book’s message is one that can’t be restated too often. “Christmas at the Toy Museum” in definitely an early gift you might want to give your child or grandchild or perhaps even donate to the local school in your neighborhood. I

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CommunityNews

Android Smartphone Users: Be Aware of Malware and How to Avoid Attacks Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

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he IC3 has been made aware of various malware attacking Android operating systems for mobile devices. Some of the latest known versions of this type of malware are Loozfon and FinFisher. Loozfon is an information-stealing piece of malware.

Criminals use different variants to lure the victims. One version is a work-at-home opportunity that promises a profitable payday just for sending out email. A link within these advertisements leads to a website that is designed to push Loozfon on the user’s device. The malicious application steals contact details from the user’s address book and the infected device’s phone number.

FinFisher is a spyware capable of taking over the components of a mobile device. When installed the mobile device can be remotely controlled and monitored no matter where the Target is located.

FinFisher can be easily transmitted to a Smartphone when the user visits a specific web link or opens a text message masquerading as a system update.

Loozfon and FinFisher are just two examples of malware used by criminals to

lure users into compromising their devices.

Safety tips to protect your mobile device: W h e n purchasing a Smartphone, know the features of the device, including the default settings. Turn off features of the device not needed to minimize the attack surface of the device.

Depending on the type of phone, the operating system may have encryption available. This can be used to protect the user’s personal data in the case of loss or theft.

With the growth of the application market for mobile devices, users should look at the reviews of the developer/company who published the application.

Review and understand the permissions you are giving when you download applications.

Passcode protect your mobile device.

This is the first layer of physical security to protect the contents of the device. In conjunction with the passcode, enable the screen lock feature after a few minutes of inactivity.

Obtain malware protection for your mobile device. Look for applications that specialize in antivirus or file integrity that helps protect your device from rogue applications and malware.

Be aware of applications that enable Geo-location. The application will track the user’s location anywhere. This application can be used for marketing, but can be used by malicious actors raising concerns of assisting a possible stalker and/or burglaries.

Jailbreak or rooting is used to remove certain restrictions imposed by the device manufacturer or cell phone carrier. This allows the user nearly unregulated control over what programs can be installed and how the device can be used. However, this procedure often involves exploiting significant security vulnerabilities and increases the attack surface of the device. Anytime a user, application or service runs in “unrestricted” or “system” level within an operation system, it allows any compromise to take full control of the device.

Do not allow your device to connect to unknown wireless networks. These networks could be rogue access points that

capture information passed between your device and a legitimate server.

If you decide to sell your device or trade it in, make sure you wipe the device (reset it to factory default) to avoid leaving personal data on the device.

Smartphones require updates to run applications and firmware. If users neglect this, it increases the risk of having their device hacked or compromised.

Avoid clicking on or otherwise downloading software or links from unknown sources.

Use the same precautions on your mobile phone as you would on your computer when using the Internet. I ••• If you have been a victim of an Internet scam or have received an e-mail that you believe was an attempted scam, please file a complaint at www.IC3.gov.

Reality TV

ACROSS 24. It's everywhere you 57. *Like a certain TV 9. "The Big ____ 36. Goes well with sushi 38. Phone button 1. "Wheel of Fortune" want to be? race Theory" purchase 25. Y, so to say 61. Exposes 10. Primary source for 42. Natasha Fatale's enemy 6. Christian minister, 28. Places 65. Actor Matt _____ Scandinavian 45. Concluding or finabbr.

30. Curved, as in foot 66. Rocks in a bar mythology ishing 9. *"Jersey Shore" 35. Argonauts' propellers 68. Pool problem 11. Late designer 49. *It's often bought stars jump in and 37. Shakespearean 69. Faulkner's "As I Lay Christian ____ on "Pawn Stars" out of them "does" _____" 12. Girl hogs 13. Popeye's gal 39. Type of TV show 70. Yes move 15. Perceive or think about 51. What pirates do 54. Wine ripening 14. "... ___ he 40. Actress ____ 71. Writer behind a in a particular way 56. Indian metropolis drove out of sight" Perlman writer 20. Grind down 15. Cuba Gooding, Jr. 41. Erasable program- 72. Cold ____ 22. *Future home net- 57. Contributes 2003 role mable read-only 73. Gloppy stuff work for "Partners in 58. Waldorf salad ingredient 16. Calculus calculation memory 74. *John and Kate plus Crime" 59. Arabian chieftain 17. "Lend me your ___" 43. Echoed by the flock how many?

24. Venomous talk 18. Furnish with a fund 44. John _____ of The 25. *MTV's "The Real __" 60. Type of defense 19. *"Bravo" cook Age of the DOWN 26. Cowboy's cry of joy 61. Word processor command 21. *TV's largest family Enlightenment 1. Electrical unit 27. Not slouching Bug-eyed 23. Toni Morrison's "___ 46. Fodder holder 2. Hodgepodge 29. *Entering its 25th 62.

63. Mascara site Baby" 47. Painter ____ Chagall 3. Like one who lacks season Badger's den 48. Like an adoring mom confidence 31. Pull an all-nighter 64.

67. Bird word 50. Carbon monoxide 4. Put out on a curb 32. Middle Eastern lacks this 5. "___ Weapon" porter © Statepoint Media 52. Heavy-duty cleanser 6. Great Barrier ____ 33. Salon file 53. D in DINK 7. E in BCE 34. *So you think you Answers on 29 » 55. Blue 8. "Rigoletto" composer can do this? www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 1st 2012 / 25

For more Community Events and Entertainment visit

w w w.t p g on l i ne d ai l y. c om and click on Calendar

Announcements Second Harvest Food Bank Programs: New Leaf Community Markets

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ere's a smart and easy way to support the Second Harvest Food Bank this holiday season. For every 10 pounds of Smart Chicken® purchased at New Leaf Community Markets during the month of November, New Leaf and MBA Poultry, Smart Chicken's Producer, will donate one pound of smart poultry chicken to the food bank.

For more information, visit www.newleaf.com

Body in Motion Pilates 783 Rio Del Mar Blvd. Suite 55, Aptos ody in Motion Pilates in Aptos is hosting a canned food drive throughout the month of November to benefit Second Harvest. All are welcome to visit the studio and donate food items.

For additional information, call (831) 6851779 or email info@pilatescalifornia.com

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Be a Holiday Helper and make a difference!

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ake the holiday season a positive one for the often forgotten care facility residents throughout our community by becoming a Holiday Helper. I-You ventures Holiday Helpers generously purchase, wrap, and label gifts so they are ready to be delivered to facility residents. Gift suggestions include: socks, slippers, combs, card games, lotion, necklaces, etc. All gifts should be dropped off at Family Service Agency, 104 Walnut Ave. Suite 208, SC. For further information, contact Carolyn or Sandra at (831) 459-8917 x208 or visit www.fsa-cc.org.

Nar-Anon

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hat is co-dependency? What is enabling?

What is this insanity? Am I the only one who feels this way? Join Nar-Anon, a world wide fellowship of relatives and friends of addicts who have been affected by someone else's addiction.

Three meetings are now being held in Santa Cruz County, on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays.

For a meeting near you call (888) 374-1164 or email saveyoursanity@aol.com Visit http://nar-anon.org/Nar-Anon/ California.html for more information.

Ongoing Events First Mondays

Great Decisions Lecture Series 7:00pm-8:30pm, Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist, 125 Canterbury Dr. Aptos ecture series on "Great Decisions", put out

by The Foreign Policy Association. Lectures led by Dr. Laina Farhat-Holzman, sponsored

by Santa Cruz Branch, American Association of University Women (AAUW).

For more information, call Lois Holcomb (831) 688-0541.

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Second and Fourth Mondays First and Third Wednesdays

Alzheimers Support Groups Monday: 2:00 - 3:30pm Wednesday: 5:30 – 7:00pm Conference Room at Elena Baskin/Live Oak Senior Center, 1777-A Capitola Rd, Santa Cruz acilitated by Jill Ginghofer, this group is for caregivers and family members of people with Alzheimers.

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Tuesdays

Women Care Drop in Cancer Support

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rop in Support Group is a gathering for women with all types of cancer. We offer support for women through all stages from diagnoses through treatment.

For more information or to register call (831) 457-2273

Drop in Grief Support 6:00pm at Aegis, 125 Heather Terrace, Aptos oin other adults who are grieving the death of a friend or family member. Learn helpful tools for coping: Share stories and receive support from people who care.

No registration required, please call (831) 430-3000

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Ocean Gate Zen Center

Toastmasters. Open to all levels.

Drop-ins welcome. For more information, call 831-335-3693.

Lectures on Western Civilization 1:30pm-2:30pm, Monterey Peninsula College xciting lectures will cover fascinating topics such as "The Art of Alchemy," as well as "Lord Byron: Mad, Bad, and Dangerous to Know."

Purchase free parking tickets at the college, lectures are free.

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Overeaters Anonymous 6:30-7:30pm at Teach by the Beach #50 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos For more information, call (831) 429-7906

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First Tuesdays Each Month

Coastal Professionals

Tail Wagging World of Dog Ownership

8:00am to 9:30am at Aptos History Museum, Old Dominion Court, Aptos. earn tips and make connections. Local professionals meet weekly to focus on business building and collaboration. Interested business owners, independent professionals and guests welcome.

For more information: 621-1153, www.CoastalProfessionals.net

6:30pm at the Santa Cruz SPCA, 2685 Chanticleer Ave., Santa Cruz (cross street is Soquel Ave.).

First Tuesdays and Third Wednesdays Each month

Orientations to Become Advocates for Children North County, 5:30-7p.m., first Tuesday of month (for location details contact Danielle at 761-2956 X102) South County, 5:30-7 p.m., third Wednesday of the month at the CASA Office, 813 Freedom Blvd. Watsonville ASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Santa Cruz County needs your help.

Volunteer 3-5 hours per week to provide support, guidance, and a powerful voice in court for children who have been removed from their homes because of abuse or neglect. Everyone welcome, men and bilingual folks especially encouraged.

To RSVP call 761-2956 Ext. 102, or email Danielle@casaofsantacruz.org

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Second Tuesdays Each Month

Child Welfare Review 6:00pm- 9:00pm 1400 Emeline Avenue room 206, Santa Cruz. he orientation is designed to review the child welfare system and to give you a chance to have your question answered by child welfare staff.

To register to one of the meetings and for directions, please call 454-4024.

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Freedom Forum Presents: Constitution Classes 7:00pm, Quaker Friends Meeting House, 225 Rooney St. Santa Cruz or more information, visit www.meetup.com/ santacruz-freedom-forum/

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Thursdays

Capitola-Aptos Rotary Club Meeting 12-1:30 p.m. at Seascape Golf Course. ontact Doug at 831- 724-9192 or e-mail dnakashima@razzolink.com for more information.

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Overeaters Anonymous

6:00pm-7:00pm, Gateway Bible Church, 5000 Granite Creek Rd. Scotts Valley or more information, visit http://hirewire.org

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1:00-2:00pm, Louden Nelson Community Center, Rm. 5 301 Center St. Santa Cruz For more information, call (831) 429-7906

PFLAG

Second Thursdays Each Month

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Wednesdays

Toastmasters: Speak for Success 12:00pm-1:00pm, St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 5271 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley. iving a business presentation?

Interviewing for a job? Improve your speaking skills in a friendly, supportive environment with Redwood Ramblers

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26 / December 1st 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Pacific Speakers Association 7:00pm, Firehouse on Soquel Dr. Aptos peakers helping speakers get gigs. Call (831) 332-8221 for more information.

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Friday November 30 thru Sunday December 2 Alladin Nursery and Gift Shop Holiday Festival

5:30-6:45 Sutter Maternity & Surgical Center, 2900 Chanticleer Ave, Soquel Dr. Santa Cruz. ired of Clutter? Stuff piling up?

Support is available. CLA meeting every Friday.

For more info call 426-1868 FREE

4:00pm-8:00pm, Alladin Nursery 2907 Freedom Blvd. estival will include refreshments, wine tasting, and live music! Performances by the Steve Abrams Quartet, Along Came Betty, Full Swing, and classic spanish guitarist Salvador. Food donations for Second Harvest Food Bank will be accepted. 1 bag of groceries will receive a 10% discount on all purchases. 2 bags will receive a 20% discount.

Admission, refreshments, and wine tasting free.

Saturdays

Saturday December 1

Aptos Certified Farmers Market

Holiday Book Sale

8:00 -12:00pm at Cabrillo College, Aptos. he Aptos Market, with over 80 vendors, is open year round, with the best selections of fresh fruits and vegetables, plants, seedlings, flowers, local honey, fresh eggs, fresh fish, artisan baked goods and gourmet foods. In addition, family activities, music, cooking demos by professional chefs, gardening workshops, seasonal fairs and events are a part of the market.

11:00am-3:00pm, Downtown Library 224 Church St. Santa Cruz he Frids of the Santa Cruz Public Library will hold a special book sale. The sale will follow the Downtown Holiday Parade.

Vintage, children's, and holiday-themed books and popular fiction will be the main attractions. Although used, all books will be in gift condition. Free gift wrapping will be offered while wrapping supplies last.

For information, call (831) 427-7716.

Fridays

Clutterers Anonymous

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Scotts Valley Farmer’s Market 9a.m.-1p.m. SV Community Center, 360 Kings Village Drive www.santacruzfarmersmarket.org

Come As You Are Zen Second and Fourth Wednesdays

Free Job Seek Workshop!

(Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) 7:00pm-9:00pm, 900 High St. First Congregational Church of Santa Cruz o learn more, call (831) 427-4016 or visit www.pflagscc.org

Third Thursday Each Month

Dated Events

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First Wednesday Each Month

7:00pm. 920 41st Ave. Suite B, Santa Cruz (next to Family Cycling Center) lease join us on Tues. evenings at 7pm for two 30 min. periods of sitting meditation with a 10 min walking meditation in between, followed by tea and discussion. Zazen instruction 6:30pm first Tues. of each month. Morning meditation schedule Tues. & Thurs. 6:45am & Sat. 8:30am followed by "Come As You Are Zen." Visit oceangatezen.org for more info.

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ing/dinner reservations or information or visit www.cabrillohostlions.org.

Veterans of Foreign Wars 6:30 pm, 2259 7th Ave. Santa Cruz ommander: Ronals Petty. For more information, call (831) 475-9804

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Second and Fourth Thursdays Each Month

Cabrillo Host Lions Club 7:00pm at the Cabrillo Community Center, Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Rd. ublic is invited to all programs.

Contact President Jess Allen 831-6842721 or Past President Barbara Chamberlain at 831-688-3356 for meet-

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9-10:30 am, Ocean Gate Zendo, 920 41st Ave. Suite B, Santa Cruz (next to Family Cycling Center) ome as you are Zen focuses on Buddhist practices that enhance our daily lives. This will be an informal talk with time for discussion. Free — donations accepted.

Visit oceangatezen.org for more info.

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Saturday December 8 Luncheon for American Association of University Women 11:00am, Seascape Golf Course, Aptos he American Association of University Women will hold their annual holiday luncheon. Fiat Musica, a women's chorus of the UCSC Women's Club, will sing Hanukkah and Christmas songs. This luncheon is a fundraiser to provide scholarships for re-entry women attending USCS and Cabrillo. A raffle, book sale, craft and bake sale will be part of the event which is open to the public.

For reservations and further information, contact Jeanne Jorgensen at (831) 477-7025.

Cost of luncheon is $22.

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Santa Cruz Bingo 4:00pm, 707 Fair Ave. Santa Cruz anta Cruz Bingo supports local charity.

All games have a minimum of a $150 prize, smaller crowds mean you have better odds.

For more information, visit www.santacruzbingo.com or email info@santacruzbingo.com. You can also call (831) 427-1007 and press 4.

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Sundays

Over-Eaters Anonymous 9:00am-10:15am, Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center, 2900 Chanticleer Ave. Sc. A is a 12-step support group for those who wish to stop eating compulsively. All are welcome.

Free childcare with advance reservation by 5pm, Fridays. Call (831) 429-7906.

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Church Bible Study/Worship 9:45am: Bible Study; 11:00: Worship, First Baptist Church 7565 Sunset Way, Aptos ooking for a church? Come worship with us!

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Tuesday December 11 Aptos Sons in Retirement Luncheon Meeting 11:30am, Severino' s Restaurant 7500 Old Dominion Ct. Aptos adies day with entertainment by "The Bad Intentions" who feature what they call Folk Fusion music with an infusion of country, swing, and blues.

For more information, call (831) 688-0977.

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Thursday December 13 Managing Financial Concerns 10:30am-12:00pm, 1777-A Capitola Road, Santa Cruz lease join Diana Moreno-Inman, Financial Education Specialist from Bay Federal Credit Union as she presents some solutions to basic financial concerns for person's with memory loss or their families. She will answer your questions about how to recognize patterns of concern for financial matters, how a family can wok proactively with a bank to minimize risks and how to better understand various legal terms and resources available to families.

For more information, call 831-464-9982. I

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Your December Horoscope Annabel Burton • Astrologer ©

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20)

Announcements Zizzo's Coffee Local Art Exhibit

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iew fun and whimsical paintings by our local "artist-of-the-month" Angelo Lopez.

Angelo is an accomplished artist having illustrated several children's books and painted murals at local libraries. Come let Angelo's artwork make you smile. Many other local artists are on display as well, including Gary Comb's new sea glass jewelry collection. Zizzo's coffee is located in the Brown Ranch Market Place, 3555 Clares St. Capitola.

Hours: Mon-Sat: 6:00am-6:00pm, Sun: 7:00am - 5:00pm. For more info. call (831) 477-0680

Ongoing Events

and join us in a social tango dance to music from the Golden Age of Tango.

Private instruction and classes by arrangement. For more information, call Michael (831) 239-2247.

Fridays

Argentine Tango at Dance Synergy 8:00-8:30pm class; 8:30-10:00+pm, practice 9055 Soquel Dr. Aptos e will cover the fundamentals of leading and following traditional Argentine Social Tango, focusing on what you need to dance well and enjoy yourself at the Milongas, (Tango dance party) and other social Tango events.

For questions, contact Michael, stclare7@tangoworld.net (831) 239-2247

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Ride vintage excursion cars, adorned with thousands of colorful lights, as they roll through city streets past homes of Santa Cruz.

Add your voice to the holiday sing along, sip hot spiced cider, listen to musical entertainment, and enjoy a visit from Santa. Choice of one holiday activity and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is included with Holiday Lights Train ticket price.

For more information, visit www.roaringcamp.com, or call (831) 3354484.

company, along with the Kirby Chamber Singers, all to the tune of tasty appetizers and wine. The proceeds of this celebration will benefit our upcoming 40th season.

Tickets are available at www.santacruz tickets.com, or by calling (831) 459-2159.

Dated Events

7:30 p.m., Scotts Valley High School Student Union. cotts Valley High School students will act out a cast of colorful characters from different cultures and walks of life in Fred Ballard’s 3-act comedy “Ladies of the Jury”, presenting an amusing jury room romp that is fun for the whole family.

Tickets are $8 for students and $10 for adults: they can be purchased at www.shotix4u.com.

Thursday November 29 thru Saturday December 1

Ongoing thru November 30

First Friday Art Tour

Ladies of the Jury

by Scotts Valley High School Drama

‘Case of Ageless Art’ Exhibit

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7:30 p.m., Scotts Valley High School Student Union. See Dec. 6-8 for description

First Fridays Each Month The Santa Cruz Public Library, 224 Church St. anta Cruz is exhibiting a "Case of Ageless Art". Exhibit will take place from November 5-30th. Watsonville’s Valley Heights Senior Community Residents, under the guidance of Ageless Art Project Volunteers, created the exhibited arts and crafts.

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Tuesdays

BINGO 6:30 p.m. Santa Cruz Elks Lodge, 150 Jewell St. osted by Soquel Sports Foundation. BuyIn $25. Also, we have a special BINGO, celebrating our 2nd anniversary, on Sept. 28 at 6:30. Buy-in only $15. www.soquelsports.com

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he First Friday Art Tour is a Santa Cruz Institute of Contemporary Arts event, managed in conjunction with the participating art venues. The event takes place year-round and illuminates some of the most talented local artists from local galleries.

To find out where to participate in a First Friday art tour, visit firstfridaysantacruz.com (Most galleries are open 12-9 pm for First Friday viewings.)

First and Third Fridays Each Month

Friday Shakespeare Club 10:30am-12:30pm, First Congregational Church, 900 High St. Santa Cruz or more information, visit www.fridayshakespeare.org, or call Kris at (831) 421-0930 or Nanette at (831) 438-3615.

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Free Trivia 7:00pm, Boulder Creek Pizza and Pub, 13200 State Route 9, Boulder Creek reat fun and prizes too! Come and enjoy some amazing pizza, breadsticks, drink, friends, and trivia! Who could ask for more?

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Tuesdays and Weekends

Live Music on the Esplanade Paradise Beach Grille 215 Esplanade, Capitola. ive music weekends and acoustic guitar Tuesdays.

For schedule and more information: (831) 476-4900 Or visit paradisebeachgrille.com

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Wednesdays

Peninsula Banjo Band 7:00 - 8:30 p.m., Harry’s Hofbrau, 390 Saratoga Ave, San Jose orty-seven years of performing in the Bay Area, over 250 popular tunes. Come see our band for Free in Sunnyvale Every Wednesday. No cover.

Contact Lee McLaughlin, Booking Agent, at 408-993-BAND (2263) for information about booking the band for Non-profit events (donations are tax deductible). www.PeninsulaBanjoBand.org

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Last Thursdays Each Month

Monthly Argentine Tango at Star Bene Italian/Argentine Restarante 4:30pm-9:30pm, Star Bene Italian/Argentene Restarante, 21245 East Cliff Dr. his is a night for true "Social Tango." Order a wonderful meal from the Star Bene Argentine Menu, (or their well known italian menu), and enjoy the ambiance of Argentina

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Saturday December 1 Holiday Benefit Dance 8:00pm to 12:00pm, VFW Post 7263 Hall 2259 7th Ave. Santa Cruz ts that holiday time again, the VFW post 7263 and the Santa Cruz Blue Star Moms are presenting live music by "The Digbeats" for an evening of good music, dancing, and friendship! Please join us for some good times.

For more information, call (831) 475-9804.

6:30-8:30p.m. 239 High St., Santa Cruz. ring your favorite music to dance to and any instruments you'd like to share or perform with. Sliding Scale donation per family of $10$25 (all proceeds going to our scholarship fund.)

For more information call 831-438-3514.

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Fourth Saturdays Each Month

Writers and Poets Open Mike 2:00pm-4:00pm, Porter Memorial Library, 3050 Porter St. Soquel (no meeting Jan., July, Aug. or Dec.) riters and Poets are invited to a new monthly open mike reading series. Come and read your fiction, essays, or poetry.

For more information, call Jean at (831) 4754221

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Weekends

including Friday, December 21

Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train Roaring Camp Railroads

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seasonal tradition returns to Santa Cruz with the Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train.

Meet the Author 1:00pm-3:00pm, Crossroads Bookstore, 1935 Main St. Watsonville eet and chat with Joan Rose Leonard, author of the recently published novel The Healer of Fox Hollow, and The Soup has Many Eyes, a memoir of her family's escape from the pogroms of Eastern Europe.

For more information, call Kelly at (831) 728-4139 or check out Joan's website at joannroseleonard.com.

Holiday Art Sale

Holiday Tree Walk at Roaring Camp

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Sunday December 2

Musical Me Inc. Family Jam Night

Saturday December 8

Saturday December 1 Sunday December 2

Fourth Friday Each Month

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7:30pm-10:00pm, at Mid-County Senior Center 829 Bay Ave, Capitola allroom dancing to live music by The 10th Ave. Band. Refreshments, large floor, friendly atmosphere, free parking. Open to the public-singles welcome!

Suggested donation, $6 per person. Proceeds benefit MCSC. For more information, call (831) 476-4711.

Big Band Dance

Ladies of the Jury

by Scotts Valley High School Drama

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et into the holiday spirit by bringing family and friends to ride Roaring Camp's daytime steam train to Bear Mountain. At the summit, guests may sip hot cider and delight in viewing a tree-lined walk of beautifully decorated holiday trees. To add to the festive spirit and bring hope to those in need, visitors may bring new and unwrapped toys to Roaring Camp's depot to benefit Santa Cruz Toy's for Tots campaign.

For train times and ticket information, visit www.roaringcamp.com, or call (831) 335-4484.

Second Fridays Each Month

Thursday December 6 thru Saturday December 8

10th Annual Christmas Tree Trimming Event 12:00pm-4:00pm, San Lorenzo Valley Museum, 12547 Highway 9, Boulder Creek hildren ages 3 and up are invited with their parents to spend a fun filled afternoon together creating a wide variety or ornaments, string popcorn and cranberries, decorate sugar and gingerbread cookies, make corn husk angels, and wreaths and door swags from fresh greenery. While enjoying the fun at the museum, check out the wide variety of local history books (great for gift giving).

Event is free, $5 donation appreciated. For more information, visit www.slvmuseum.com or call (831) 338-8382.

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Sunday December 2 40 for 40!

4:00pm-6:00pm, Community Foundation of SCC, 7807 Soquel Dr. Aptos oin us for the kick-off of the Baroque Festival's 40th concert season. This elegant afternoon will begin with cookies and coffee.

Lux musica is offering music by Haydn and

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Inspiration is a wonderful thing - you cannot see it or touch it and yet you feel it. Someone is inspiring you these days and you see this person as a leading light. Of course, you love what is real and tangible, and yet the intangibles change lives as much as the realities. Allow this thought to penetrate and you see that you have the best combination. The Full Moon at the end of this month is a turning point for you, bringing these ideas to light at last. Enjoy. And of course it is the season to be jolly. Your humour is a little dark but perfect for the times we are in.

Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb. 18) While you have been considering serious questions about your life direction recently, the important thing is to align what you love with what you do and get paid for. New developments here point you in the right direction and help and advice comes from an unexpected quarter. It is up to you to take the appropriate action but you have been waiting for the right moment. Love and romance are key for you over the Christmas Season, and while you are happy to be friends with everyone there is just one special person you want to be with.

Practicalities take precedence at the end of the month!

Pisces (Feb. 19-Mar. 20) Exciting new developments around friends overseas or anything with a foreign flavour set you on course for a new way of being. Perhaps it won't seem so dramatic at first but you have been on a steady pathway of growing and understanding for some time, and your basic philosophy is changing due to what you have recently learned. This is a great time for mending bridges, and renewing friendships but also being kinder to yourself since you sometimes give yourself quite a hard time.

Practical solutions can be better than expected towards the end of the month after a stroke of good fortune.

Aries (March 21-April 20) This is a month for different choices and options and your energies are shared between various factions of your life. Career plans are helped and new directions are a possibility for you. Make the most of the first week to push forward and create waves. Discover new information that can have a real influence on what you bring into your life, and it is likely that connections far and wide can result in adventure and change. The only thing holding you back is you! The Christmas Season brings joy and a new addition to your family.

Taurus (April 21-May 21) In some ways you are glad to see the back of 2012 and look forward to the new plans you have in mind for next year. But you have also achieved some outstanding in some areas and new relationships are warm and very special. While you acknowledge that there are certain aspects over which you have little control, nevertheless your creative mind set has unleashed ideas and thoughts in others and this is your gift, making the intangible real and practical. Wait till after the 21st to launch into a brand new direction.

Gemini (May 22-June 21) You have mixed feelings about reaching the last month of the year and while the Sun is in your area to do with relationships, then this is the time to renew your vows and strengthen what you have with your special other. This year Christmas is different and you acknowledge that life is a constant stream of change which you are very much part of. There is not time to be stuck in a rut and by the 11th you feel shift is happening. Mercury, your ruler, is now in Sagittarius and links and connections with the media are great. You are brilliant at self promotion at this time!

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

10:00am-3:00pm, 3140 Mar Vista Dr. Aptos nique gift items: portrait paintings, multicolored foil paintings, purses, journal covers, and more.

For more information, call (831) 662-8248.

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The month starts intriguingly with a highly emotive set of circumstances that you are drawn into. But you are well equipped to deal with what is happening and your role in being a lynch pin is important to bring stability once more. You work hard at creating the circumstances which bring peace and fulfillment and seek out those who are positive and supportive. After the 21st the Sun moves into Capricorn, your opposite sign. This is significant for long term partnerships and with the Full Moon in your sign at the end of the month, a greater understanding and a new chapter in your life is just beginning.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 23)

Aptos Redwood Village Holiday Open House 4:00pm-6:00pm, 9909 Soquel Dr. Aptos njoy wine tasting, appetizers, refreshments, and carolers. Drop by the many fine shops and services in Redwood Village.

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Important choices are there for you at the start, based around trying to fit in with all the social demands that are placed on you! It is important to factor in time with your nearest and dearest and while there is a certain frantic quality to the Season of Goodwill, you manage to make is special and simple for those you love. Using your artistic skills, this year you are clever at the detail and love to see the joy in others. A special offer for you around the last week looks almost too good to be true, but is it?

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sep. 22)

Friday December 14 thru Sunday December 16 The Original Santa Cruz Nutcracker 1:00pm and 4:30pm, Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St. Santa Cruz anta Cruz Ballet Theatre celebrates its 10th anniversary performing The Nutcracker with incomparable Maestro John Larry Granger conducting the Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre Orchestra.

Tickets: $5-$15 depending on seating. For tickets visit www.santacruztickets.com.

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Saturday December 15 Sunday December 16 Christmas with the Santa Cruz Chorale Saturday at 8:00pm, Sunday 4:00pm, Holy Cross Church, 123 High St. Santa Cruz egin a new holiday tradition! This season, give yourself and those you love the gift of beautiful, live choral music. You'll be inspired by the soaring notes and blended harmonies from the Renaissance to current times, including beloved traditional carols.

Tickets available at the door, and from www.satacruzchorale.org. You may also call (831) 437-8023. I

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This is a wonderful time for courses, learning, discovering and finding out. You are travelling more than usual and making connections with a wide variety of people. This means you are busy, busy, busy!

But there is a purpose to all this and you have felt rather impatient that some situations that you are eager to move forward have been a little slow in getting going. You are brilliant at the practicalities and will find that your organizational skills are perfect in the run up to Christmas. Mid-month you are drawn to the past with a trip down Memory Lane.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 23) You are so busy organizing your finances that you barely notice Christmas until it is upon you! But you are looking at the bigger picture and this is a great time to venture into self employment and start your own business. You have plenty of ideas and have been doing your homework and research. Make the most of current trends to push forward with your plans. Your ruler, Venus, goes into Scorpio mid-month and here passion is more evident which adds a sizzle to your relationships! Whatever is going on behind the scenes can now be a little more open and less secretive!

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Earlier in the month, all is going well for you when it comes to socializing, creating the right relationships and connections with others and it's not hard to make new friends. It could be that long lasting relationships are not what you need right now, and variety, of course, is the spice of life. This means that you are upbeat and more into having fun than anything else. But the mood changes a little later and you are more serious and able to stand back a little to give invaluable advice to someone who could do with your help.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) That familiar feeling of juggling so many different elements and trying to keep everyone happy is back again this month but not for too long. There is an intensity at the start but you do enjoy what the month brings, especially as some of you will be celebrating your birthday. Luck is with you and chance encounters can lead to doors opening with both business and/or love. You are glad that certain aspects are now part of your past, and you are looking forward with hope and optimism. The Full Moon in Cancer at the end of your month highlights the need for change and transformation.

••• Find Out More www.AnnabelBurton.tv

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 1st 2012 / 27

FeaturedColumnist From Watsonville to Santa Cruz

Beware of Water and Fire Disasters

By Mike Conrad, Division Chief Operations, Aptos La Selva Fire Protection District

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You’ll Find it here 28 / December 1st 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

t’s that time of year again and we have lots to talk about. First, since we have had a little rain we still need to be vigilant for a possible wildland fire until the rains start.

We also know that winter storms are just around the corner. Now is the time to address the hazards that winter can bring what we can do now to protect ourselves and our property.

Now is the time to correct situations around your property rather than in the middle of a pouring rain at night.

Take a look to see: Have the gutters on your house been cleaned? Are the downspouts free of obstructions and connected to your drainage system. Will rain water drain away from your home or will it create a lake? Does drainage from your property impact your neighbor’s property?

While checking the gutters, what does the roof look like? Now is the time to arrange for repairs or replacement.

Is your property ready for the strong winds that we often see during the winter? Take time now to secure loose items in the yard or store them for winter. Have any limbs or trees in question been checked and removed if necessary.

Make sure you are ready to spend several days without electricity. Have lots of flashlights and extra batteries on hand, a battery operated radio and a landline telephone which requires no household electricity to operate and.

If you have a fireplace or wood stove, have the chimney cleaned and inspected, insure that a proper chimney cap and spark arrestor are in place. Check for limbs that may have grown over or near your chimney and trim them back at least 10 feet. We have already had a small house fire that was caused from tree limbs touching the fireplace flue and igniting while the occupants had a fire in their fireplace. Make sure to remove all combustibles away from the fireplace and wall or floor furnaces that may have accumulated over the summer.

During winter storms, do not drive into flooded roads; it only takes two feet of water to carry your car away; just six inches of fast moving water can knock you off your feet; so the best advice is to stay put during storms unless told otherwise by local emergency responders.

Please DO NOT touch, walk over, or drive across downed power lines. They may still be live, or become live at any moment. Ask yourself, is the reason for crossing downed power lines worth my life?

If you live in an area where flooding is possible keep sandbags, plastic sheeting and other materials on hand before the flooding starts.

It’s also the holiday season; everyone is busy with the hustle and bustle that goes with this time of year. While you are enjoying family and friends this year, please take a few moments to ensure their safety.

Statistics from the U.S. Fire Administration shows that during the month of December, 72 percent of all structure fires are in residential buildings and the leading cause involves cooking, closely followed by heating related fires. While you are busy in the kitchen this year pay close attention to the common causes of holiday cooking fires.

Cooks can often become distracted during this time of the year, by family, friends and yes even adult beverages.

On average 54 percent of cooking fires during the holidays will result from either food or cooking equipment being left unattended or combustible items like towels, wooden utensils, oven mitts and cook books being left too close to a heat source.

Keep all combustibles well away from any heat source and never leave items cooking left unattended, it only takes a few minutes for oil in a pan to reach its ignition temperature and possibly ruin a holiday.

During the holidays, we also see the use of open flame in our homes increase, with the use of a fireplace, wood stove and candles. With this increase we also see an increase in fire’s not only from the obvious of

items coming into contact with these open flames but also from kids playing with fire.

Be very careful with candles keep them away from combustible items and never leave a candle burning when you leave the house or go to bed.

Make sure if you have children in the home, remind them that fire is a tool, a very dangerous tool and should not be played with.

Depending on the age of your children you may consider taking this time of year and teaching them the proper use of fire and how to safety start a fire in the fireplace or light a candle, always under adult supervision.

Christmas tree fires can produce the most dangerous fires of all. An average Christmas tree will burn with the same intensity as a 2-foot pool of gasoline. How fast a Christmas tree fire will spread depends mostly on how dry it is.

Videos of Christmas tree fires on the Internet show a fire in a tree spreading to the entire room in just a couple of minutes.

Keep it well watered and take out a dry tree right away.

Always keep the tree well away from ignition sources like the fireplace or heater and inspect all lights that you place on the tree.

Never leave Christmas tree lights on when not at home or when going to bed.

Make sure you always have working smoke detectors in your home, change the batteries twice a year; you should have done this in November with the time change.

While maybe not as exciting as many other holiday gifts, the gift of a smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector and a fire extinguisher may give the gift of life.

On behalf of the members of the Aptos La Selva Fire District, I would like to wish you and your family a happy and safe holiday season. Oh and don’t forget you can spread the joy of the holiday season by stopping by any of the fire stations and donating food or toys for those in need. I ••• For more information please visit an excellent informative website at www.usfa.fema.gov/citizens/home_fire_ prev/holiday_seasonal/index.shtm or call your local fire department.

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SPCA Featured Pet

Bessie wants to Moo-ve in With You

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essie’s doggy smile lights up the room and her ability to cuddle is off the charts. You would never guess that this dog was found as a stray and never claimed by her owner.

Bessie was found dodging cars near a highway. You could see in her eyes that she was desperately searching for something or someone. Animal control officers thought that she would be claimed within hours but instead, Bessie sat lonely in a shelter for weeks. She wore no collar or tags and had no microchip.

Workers scanned the streets and Internet for “Lost” posters pertaining to the beautiful dog they re-named Bessie but came up empty handed.

This sweet girl is now available for adoption at the Santa Cruz SPCA. She loves to go on walks around town, to the beach, in the woods and recently had a wonderful stroll on West Cliff Drive. She is very pleased to meet new people as well as other dogs and has proven herself to be very well socialized.

Although she is part cattle dog, her personality is more that of a Labrador.

She is smart, without the strong drive or intensity of most working cattle breeds, and is active without being hard to handle. Bessie is medium size, around 45 pounds, and has a luxuriously soft and beautifully colored coat. This girl is going to make the right person or family VERY happy indeed.

If you would like to help animals like Bessie and her orphaned friends, please consider donating to the Santa Cruz SPCA. The Santa Cruz SPCA is a 501c3 charitable organization and receives no government funding, relying solely on public donations to run its many programs that benefit the animals and people of our community.

For more information call the Santa Cruz SPCA at 465-5000, or visit www.santacruzspca.org. The SPCA is located at 2685 Chanticleer Avenue in Santa Cruz, CA 95065 and is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 p.m.

The SPCA Mall Adoption Center and Gift Shop is located at the Capitola Mall near Target and is open on Friday from 11am-5pm and Sat-Sun 11am-4pm. I

CommunityNews

Measure L gets Overwhelming Approval $150 million school bond passes with over 68 percent yes vote

By Noel Smith

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oters approved th Measure L bond issue to provide $150 million dollars for school renovations and improvements in the Pajaro Valley Unified School District. This percentage exceeds the 55 percent required and is over a 2 to 1 approval ratio.

The district’s financial officer, Brett McFadden said, “We are very excited about the passage of Measure L along with the passing of Proposition 30. This should provide a big boost to the District’s ability to provide our students with a quality education in a much-improved learning environment.

Statewide, of 106 school bond measures proposed, over 81 percent of them passed, as did 60 percent of the 25 parcel taxes that appeared on the ballot. Communities are showing that even in difficult times, they value education for their children.”

McFadden pointed out that even though this is the largest school bond passed in our county’s history, it funds only 60 percent of the identified needs outlined in the 2012 Facility Master Plan and Needs Assessment. “This means that the district will need to be very cautious and strategic in its implementation program as there are immediate needs throughout the district.”

According to McFadden, to prioritize bond-funded projects, the district has been divided into three areas, north, central and south each area having about twelve schools. This is to make sure that all areas of

‘No Shoot Zone’ for Eureka Canyon Area Vote Made 4-1 vote aims to ban shooting on 109 private properties

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the district will get their most pressing renovation and improvement needs met. The initial bond offering of about $50 million will be next spring. The bond funds also make possible qualifying for matching government funding and/or grants at the state and federal level for some projects.

The next few months will be busy ones for McFadden and district staff, as they will: • Appoint the Measure L Citizens’ Oversight Committee • Select bond program manager, architects, construction management firms.

(Request for Qualifications (RFQs) have already been sent out by the district and responses received. The next step will be Request for Proposals (RFPs) for program management positions and specific projects) • Prepare first issuance package and sell it on the bond market • Begin RFQ/RFP process on solar projects • Identify energy reduction/efficiency projects that can be implemented ASAP to qualify for grants • Adopt final bond implementation strategy along with project prioritization • Contact appropriate public agencies to begin permitting processes where necessary – city, county, and state • Select bond finance and project tracking software program I

ome of the property owners against the shooting ban call this, “A parting shot from Supervisor Pirie.” They are unhappy because of how quickly the item was pushed through and put before the supervisors for a vote. Many residents were unaware that there was a problem and other than just prior to the vote on November 20, there had been no public discussion about a possible problem.

Supervisor Ellen Pirie brought the issue of prohibiting the discharge of firearms in the Eureka Canyon Area before the board after about 22 Corralitos residents presented her with a petition in September complaining of gunfire coming from a specific location in the area. The petition said that they

felt unsafe and were being subjected to "loud explosions" sometimes lasting 2-3 hours.

Supervisor Pirie sent a letter to the residents of the area dated October 30 that the subject would be coming before the board on November 20. Of those property owners that responded to her in writing, the overwhelming majority were against the ban stating that they saw no reason for a “No Shoot Zone” and that guns were primarily used in the area for target practice on occasion and to control wild pigs. I ••• The “No Shoot Zone” for Eureka Canyon Rd will come before the board for a second reading on December 4.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 1st 2012 / 29

FeaturedColumnist

Ravishing Romantics at the Santa Cruz County Symphony Second Concert of 2012 Season

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he search for the new Director of the Santa Cruz Symphony continued with the second of five con-

Anthony Quartuccio Jr.

impressive virtuosicerts. On Sunday, ty with flawless Nov. 18, Anthony technique and brilQuartuccio Jr. directby Josef Sekon, DMA liant legato phrased the orchestra with a fine presentation of three works ing throughout the concerto. It was obvious that she knew the work intimately as from the Romantic period.

The concert began with a refreshing she gently gestured and reacted with work not heard enough, Richard facial expressions to practically every Wagner ’s Overture to the Flying nuance that entered into the developDutchman (1860). As the work pro- ment of the composition. Her cadenza at gressed it gathered the necessary momen- that end of the first movement was most tum to bring Wagner’s brilliant orchestra- impressive along with the entry of the tion abilities to the fore. The motives pre- winds. Ms. Kanagawa’s playing in the sented in the overture that play a signifi- high register and well executed divisi cant role in character identification in the lines were performed with perfection, enough to bring the audience to their opera were well defined.

The amazing eighteen-year-old feet with a standing ovation at the end of Mayumi Kanagawa was the soloist in the the first movement.

Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 in A Violin Concerto in D Minor, Op. 92 (1905) by Jean Sibelius. Ms. Kanagawa’s Major, Op. 47 (1812) was the final work of delicate, floating sound introduced the the concert and it was indeed in the full opening theme that captivated the audi- spirit of intention. Maestro Quartuccio ence. Ms. Kanagawa demonstrated her pulled out all stops in an excellent per-

30 / December 1st 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Classical Reflection

Mayumi Kanagawa formance. Again, special note of the excellent work by the brass and winds throughout the work!

Questions asked by Symphony supporters that continue to grow are: “Who is on the “Select Committee, what are their credentials, qualifications and why hasn’t this list been made public as in similar situations?” I