Aptos Times: March 1, 2020

Family Owned For Over 29 Years • Aptos, La Selva Beach, Corralitos, Freedom & Watsonville

Times Publishing Group, Inc.

March 1, 2020 • Vol 29 No. 5

www.tpgonlinedaily.com

CASA Welcomes New Advocates

On Feb. 18, Santa Cruz County Superior Court Judge Timothy Schmal swore in 26 community members as Court Appointed Special Advocates for children in foster care.

Full Story page 11

Remembering Lindsey Quinby

By Jondi Gumz Lindsey Quinby lived life to the fullest with her 10 best girlfriends until an all-terrain vehicle accident in 2012 ended it at age 29.

She was the glue that brought all 10 of them together for the first time in eight years to a weekend tribute

orchestrated by her father Paul Quinby, who lives in La Selva Beach. Lindsey was an only child, and Paul worried he would lose touch with her friends as they moved past their mid30s, married and had children of their own. ... continues on page 4

District 2 Supervisor Candidate Q & A

On March 3, voters in Santa Cruz County District 2 will decide who will represent them on the Board of Supervisors. Incumbent Zach Friend faces a challenge from Becky Steinbruner. Each candidate responded to this question from Times Publishing Group, Inc.: Full Story page 6

Inc.

2 / March 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

No. 5

Volume 29

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Table of Contents

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Cover

Remembering Lindsey Quinby, By Jondi Gumz

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Community News District 2 Supervisor Candidate Q & A Public Comment on Cotoni-Coast Dairies Open Thru March 19 • Aptos High is Runner-up in Mock Trial Championship The Migrant Experience: Past and Present • Project Scout Tax Preparation Help • Registration Opens for Boardwalk Fun Run • Helping Women on International Women’s Day • Groundwater Plan Debuts County Public Health Monitors Coronavirus • Jessica Schattenburg: Aptos Poetry Contest Times Winner Election Observers Welcome CASA Welcomes New Advocates Donate Blood During Red Cross Month • State Invests $4.5 Million to Address Dementia Saturday Academy: Learning for All, By Alicia Jimenez Student Art Show Opens March 11 $3K Grants Encourage Seismic Refits Top Dog Film Festival

move to where you can dream

Business Profile 16 Pelican House Watch: Checking On Your Home When You’re Away, By Erin Kelly-Allshouse

The Vo Are In!

California News 25 AG: $1.6 Billion Settlement with Opioid Maker

Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – Your November Horoscope Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29

21 23 24 26 30

Featured Columnists We’re #InThisTogether with Zun-Zun, By Rebecca Rubin Medication Errors, By Ron Conte, Pharm.D. At Odds With Your Adult Children?, By Pat Hanson Weeding Earlier Rather Than Later, By Tony Tomeo Serving the Needs of our Local Seniors, By Zach Friend, County Supervisor, 2nd District

SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 25 — Simon: Bring Home Some Personality

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COVER STORY publisher

Patrice Edwards

editor

Jondi Gumz

contributing writers Camisa Composti, Jondi Gumz, Alicia Jimenez, Erin Kelly-Allshouse, Rebecca Rubin, Ron Conte, Pat Hanson, Tony Tomeo, Zach Friend layout Michael Oppenheimer, Jim Johnson graphic artists Michael Oppenheimer, Jim Johnson photography Michael Oppenheimer, Jim Johnson, Brad King website Michael Oppenheimer, Camisa Composti production coordinator Ryan Wilson advertising sales Don Beaumont, Teri Huckobey, Ryan Wilson Cathe Race

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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-monthly publication, the Capitola Times and Scotts Valley Times, each printed monthly, Coastal Weddings Magazine, Coastal Home and Garden Magazine, Aptos’ Fourth of July Parade Official Program Guide and Capitola’s Begonia Festival Official Program Guide, is owned by Patrice Edwards.

Entire contents ©2020. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission

for 25 years, saw immediately what could be done.

“We’ll take photos and put them in the He had saved Lindsey’s clothes, thinking they could be made into quilts for show,” she told Paul Quinby.

Tears came to his eyes. her friends. When he saw quilters at Books Quilt show & Brews in La Selva Beach, he inquired, then followed up with a request last fall to e invited all 10 of Lindsey’s girlfriends members of the Pajaro Valley Quilt Assoto come to Aptos for the weekend and ciation, which meets monthly at Temple see the results on display at the PVQA’s Beth El in Aptos.

2020 show Feb. 22-23 at the Watsonville Could Lindsey’s clothing be repur- fairgrounds. posed into baby-size quilts for each of her The friends arrived at Aptos Seafriends with one for him and one for Lind- scape, where they reconnected with sey’s mom? he asked.

Paul and reminisced about Lindsey, met “That kind of request is very unusual,” the quilt-makers and visited the quilt said Michael McNamara, president of the show.

PVQA, which has nearly 300 members.

“This reminds me of her,” said Angie Ten quilters including McNamara Korobi, 37, of Oakland, looking at a quilt took up the challenge. designed by Goudarzi and made by “There are so many reasons people McNamara, featuring an image of Yosemite make quilts,” said McNamara, a pro- and logos of the Golden State Warriors and lific quilter. “They give warmth and the San Francisco Giants. comfort.”

She met Lindsey in seventh grade when Nancy Goudarzi, a quilter in earnest Lindsey transferred to Miller Creek Middle School in San Rafael.

“She was this beautiful blond girl – everybody had a crush on her,” Angie recalled. “She’s still touching people beyond her passing. She was always bringing people together.”

Shana Walt, 39, of the East Bay, Lindsey’s friend since middle school, said, “She was this being of light… kind and good.”

After high school, where Lindsey played basketball, Shana and Lindsey Lindsey’s Quinby’s friends shared their memories in letters, photos got together again at San and artwork that accompanied the exhibit at the Pajaro Valley Quilt Diego State University.

When Lindsey went to Association 2020 show.

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“Lindsey Quinby” from page 1

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work in sales at radio station 92.7, she got them tickets to see the Warriors.

“She was always making connections,” Shana said.

Memories iane Peterson, 37, of Marin, played on a championship AAU basketball team with Lindsey.

At a playoff game, where Diane was the point guard and Lindsey was the wing, Diane’s elbow ended up in Lindsey’s eye, a moment captured by the local photographer – “we earned this,” Diane said.

The two started on varsity as freshmen and after their high school playing days ended, they visited each other in college, Diane at Sacramento State and Lindsey at San Diego State.

Kiki William, 37, of San Rafael, a friend since preschool, played who played basketball with Lindsey.

“She was the defensive heart of our team,” Kiki said She went to UC Berkeley when Lindsey went to Santa Barbara City College and they stayed in touch. Kiki went to her graduation, and afterward, “we talked daily,” she said.

Her own style indsey had a fashion style all her own, reflected in the quilts.

“I’m blown away by what I see,” Kiki said. “I see little pieces of all of her.”

McNamara, the only man making quilts for Lindsey’s friends, figured out a way to use her pants —“I’m not afraid of those curves,” he said.

Lindsie Moorehouse Collins, 38, of Redwood City, came wearing peacock earrings that used to be Lindsey’s.

“Her mom gave them to me,” she said.

The two became best friends in seventh grade, coming up with their own nicknames: “Mo” and “Q.”

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COVER STORY RIGHT: This quilt, designed and made by Cathy Hanson, reflects Lindsey Quinby’s love of the Golden State Warriors, her high school basketball team, and the outdoors.

LEFT: This quilt, made by Linda Fleck, is made from Lindsey Quinby’s clothing shows the many styles she wore.

Lindsey was her bridesmaid and the two went to 49er football games.

“I named my daughter Quinby after her,” she said, tears in her eyes. “She would have been an amazing mom.”

Twins ddieween Oliver, 39, of Marin, said she was “kind of a big sister” to Lindsey since middle school.

“We’d be at concerts, reggae and ragamuffin, and she’d yell out my name,” she said.

She brought her twins, Grace and Matthew, 2 1/2, and her youngest, Mike, 17 months, to the quilt show, recalling how Lindsey came to parties for her oldest son Jonathan, who’s 20.

She named her daughter Grace after Paul said, “We all need a little more grace in this world.”

At the quilt show, Eddieween found two nearly identical quilts, one pink, one blue, for her twins.

Juliet Edson, 38, of Novato, a friend since middle school, played basketball with Lindsey.

They dressed in crazy socks and crazy hair, took prom pictures together, and when Juliet’s family went on vacation, Lindsey came along.

“She always called my mom on her birthday,” Juliet said.

Comforting rystal Schyadre, 38, of Novato, met Lindsey at the middle school talent show -- they both sang -- and then played basketball with her, spending a lot of time in practice and at camps.

In the summer, she and Lindsey went with Juliet’s family to Northern Wisconsin, waking up for the sunrise and canoeing and singing on the river.

The friendship never faded.

“My son is 12 — she came to his birthday parties,” Crystal said.

When Crystal got divorced, Lindsey was a comfort.

“She always knew what to say,” Crystal said.

Dre Olson, 37, of San Diego, was assigned Lindsey as a roommate at Santa Barbara City College and “became best friends.”

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After living in a dorm, they moved to Isla Vista together.

“There were nine girls in that apartment-it was a lot of fun,” Dre said.

Dre finished her degree at San Jose State, then moved in with Lindsey in San Diego until she graduated.

Lindsey’s dream was to travel the world.

She went on her own, visiting Europe and Australia and returning with an accent.

A friend returns en Tieche, 37, of San Rafael, was the midyear arrival from Catholic school when she met Lindsey in seventh grade.

“We were inseparable,” she said.

“Beaches, nature, hikes, movies, we did everything together.”

When they got older, they would get in her black Jetta and listen to music.

At one point, Jen found a new group with hang out with and lost touch with her middle school friends.

“She brought me back,” Jen said of Lindsey. “I ‘m happy I came back… I love her and miss her and still feel her energy to be a better person.”

Extraordinary his project became personal for all of us,” said Goudarzi, who enjoyed meeting Lindsey’s friends most of all. “Everything else related to the past and this related to their future.”

As Lindsey’s friends prepared to go home, Paul Quinby said, “These are extraordinary girls.”

He added, “These quilts will tell a lot of stories.”

He’s grateful to the quilters who made their reunion possible.

The quilters: Roz diNatale, Linda Fleck, Karen Gonzalez, Nancy Goudarzi, Cathy Hansen, Rosa Kitchen, Michael McNamara, Joanne Pedemonte, Susan Ranieri, Annie Tokarz. n ••• Cover Photo: Paul Quinby reunites with friends of his daughter Lindsey, in photo (from left): Mo Collins, Angie Korobi, Juliet Edson, Diane Peterson, Crystal Schyadre, Kiki William, Jen Tieche, Shana Walt, Dre Olson, and Eddieween Oliver. • Photos Credit: Jondi Gumz

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COMMUNITY NEWS

District 2 Supervisor Candidate Q & A O n March 3, voters in Santa Cruz County District 2 will decide who will represent them on the Board of Supervisors. Incumbent Zach Friend faces a challenge from Becky Steinbruner. Each candidate responded to this question from Times Publishing Group, Inc.: If you are re-elected/elected, what will the next four years look like in terms of change?

Zach Friend n many respects, we are at a defining moment in our community.

Will we meet the challenges that face our community in terms of housing a f f o r d a b i l i t y, homelessness, environmental protection Zach Friend and quality of life?

The next few years, both in policy

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and approach, will set the stage either way.

I see some things, in large part because of a willingness to say yes to new approaches, getting much better. For example, there is becoming a community vibrancy, especially with local small businesses, in Aptos.

In the next four years, more new business owners will continue to create a local environment and heart (new restaurants, ice cream shops, boutique retail) that Aptos hasn’t seen before.

I also see improvements in affordable housing. Some of the policies that I’ve encouraged over the last few years are just now starting to show effects.

“Friend” page 8 ••• Becky Steinbruner he State of California is increasingly issuing mandates that limit the power of local government, especially in land-use policy.

Because we face uncertain economic times and a tsunami of debt due to unfunded pension programs throughout the state, all local Becky Steinbruner government representatives will face having to prioritize budget items and decide how best to serve the needs of the people who work hard to live here, raise their families, and have successful businesses.

If I am elected, the people will once again be treated equally and with respect. If they are given the honest facts and asked to be involved in developing a solution, they will, and the outcome will be positive for the future triple-bottom line.

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“Steinbruner” page 8

COMMUNITY NEWS

Public Comment on Cotoni-Coast Dairies Open Thru March 19 T he federal Bureau of Land Management Central Coast field office is seeking public input on an environmental assessment and draft amendment to the resource management plan for the California Coastal National Monument that will provide management direction for Cotoni-Coast Dairies public lands in Santa Cruz County.

The 30-day public review period ends March 19.

Two open house meetings will take place 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 4, at Bonny Doon Union Elementary School District, 1492 Pine Flat Road, Santa Cruz, and Thursday, March 5, at Louden Nelson Community Center, 301 Center St., Santa Cruz.

Plans are to provide public access and recreation on the nearly 6,000 acres of Cotoni-Coast Dairies public lands while protecting natural and cultural resources.

Access to the property is currently limited to guided tours. All of the alternatives provide for increased public access to this property.

This effort advances the administration’s goals identified in Secretarial Order 3366, “Increasing Recreation Opportunities on Lands and Waters Managed by the U.S. Department of the Interior;” Secretarial Order 3347, “Conservation Stewardship and Outdoor Recreation;” and Secretarial Order 3372, “Reducing Wildfire Risks on Department of the Interior Land Through Active Management.”

Cotoni-Coast Dairies, donated to the

Cotoni-Coast Dairies BLM in 2014, extends along Highway 1 near Davenport. This area is marked by six forested perennial streams that flow from the Santa Cruz Mountains into the Pacific Ocean and between these riparian drainages are broad marine terraces. There is a wide variety of habitats and wildlife, including coho salmon, steelhead trout, California red-legged frogs, mule deer and mountain lions.

Written comments may be submitted electronically at https://go.usa.gov/ xEJAw, via email to blm_ca_cotoni_coast_ dairies@blm.gov, by fax to 831-582-2266,

Aptos High is Runner-up in Mock Trial Championship

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or the fifth straight year, Aptos High and Santa Cruz High faced each other in the final round of the mock trial county championship — and Santa Cruz High emerged the winner.

Aptos High coach Kevin Mitchener said the trial was close throughout with Santa Cruz narrowly defeating Aptos to move on to the state competition.

After the trial, the scoring attorneys singled out the two expert witnesses, Carmella Rennell for Aptos and Nicole Qing for Santa Cruz, as having given particularly convincing performances.

“I was proud of how well each of the team members of Aptos stepped up in the final round,” Mitchener said. “After three weeks of competition, each member of the team gave their best performance of the season in the final round. The 12 seniors have left behind a strong legacy for future teams to live up to.”

The finals took place on Feb. 20 at the Santa Cruz County Superior Court. Aptos High defeated Harbor High and Santa Cruz High defeated Watsonville High in the semifinal round Feb. 18 to vie for the championship. n

or mail to BLM Central Coast Field Office,

Attn: Cotoni-Coast Dairies RMPA/EA, 940 2nd Ave., Marina, CA 93933-6009.

Before including addresses, phone numbers, email addresses or other personal identifying information in a comment, commenters should be aware that the entire comment, including personal identifying information, could be made publicly available at any time. While the public may ask the BLM to withhold personal identifying information from public review, the BLM cannot guarantee that it will be able to do so. n ••• The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 Western states and administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate nationwide.

The agency reported fiscal year 2018 activities authorized on BLM-managed lands generated $105 billion in economic output, supported 471,000 jobs and contributed substantial revenue to the U.S. Treasury and state governments, mostly through mineral royalties.

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COMMUNITY BRIEFS The Migrant Experience, Past and Present Our Community Reads Final Event: March 5 ome join us for the final event of our 2020 Our Community Reads season discussing this year’s selected book, Patriot Number One by Lauren Hilgers.

We will host a spirited panel discussion on one of the major themes of the book, the migrant experience of a contemporary Chinese family in the US. What is the experience of today’s Chinese migrants?

How does it compare with historical migration?

UCSC professors Grace Peña Delgado (History) and Nancy N. Chen (Anthropology) will discuss the historical and cultural contexts of migration and the exclusionary policies that shaped the experiences of Chinese migrants living in the United States.

Moderated by doctoral candidate Bristol Cave La-Coste, the event will be at Temple Beth El, 3055 Porter Gulch Road, Aptos, on Thursday, March 5, 2020 at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit: friendsofaptoslibrary.org.

••• Project Scout Tax Preparation Help roject SCOUT offers volunteer income tax assistance and tax counseling for local residents during tax season through April 14 at sites in Santa Cruz County.

• Aptos Library, 7695 Soquel Drive, Aptos: Tues., 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

• Downtown Santa Cruz Library, 224 Church St., Santa Cruz: Tues., 3- 6 p.m.

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“Friend” from page 6 Elimination of fees on small accessory dwelling units (ADUs/granny units) has spurred applications for seniors wanting to age in place and others looking to provide new affordable units. Additionally, new deed-restricted affordable ADUs are being built by residents receiving forgivable loans from the county.

Connected to this, there will be improvements in homelessness in the next four years as we create as many as three new navigation centers in the cities and county (providing day services, health and mental health services and rapid re-housing options). We’ve approved the framework for it and have state funding supporting our efforts.

On the traffic and road condition side I also see improvements over the next 4 years. As the next phase of the highway is improved to 41st Avenue, the Mar Vista bike and pedestrian bridge is

• Downtown Santa Cruz Library, 224 Church St., Santa Cruz: Sat., 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

• Volunteers are trained by Internal Revenue Service and Franchise Tax Board personnel.

For disabled individuals unable to get to the tax sites, trained volunteers can do in-home tax preparation. Seniors get priority at all library sessions.

For information, call the Watsonville office at 1-831-724-2606 or toll-free at 1-877-373-8297. Or visit the Project Scout website: seniorscouncil.org/programs/ projectscout.

••• Registration Opens for Boardwalk Fun Run egistration is now open for the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk’s 2nd Annual Fun Run on April 5. A discount is available if you register by March 13.

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completed, buses run on the shoulder of Highway 1 and increased senior and paratransit services occur from Measure D funding.

Areas of Seacliff, Pleasant Valley, La Selva and Corralitos will receive road repairs as part of Measure D and, rural roads, including areas that haven’t seen repairs in decades, will receive new funding from work I did to move state and federal monies to a formula basis, ensuring our district a new infusion of funds. Lastly, major steps toward the Pajaro River levee reconstruction will occur in the next four years.

These improvements over the next four years are a result of my work ove r the last seven years. But they require an ability to say yes, work with other electeds to get the votes to make it happen, advocate at the state and federal level and non-stop persistence. I believe some good things are in store moving forward. n

8 / March 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

The family-friendly run includes a 1K race through the Boardwalk for kids age 12 and under, and a 5K race through the Boardwalk and up the San Lorenzo River for runners age 4 and up.

All runners will receive a finisher medal, $5 MyBoardwalk Card, and up to 2 hours of free-play in the Casino Arcade.

Runners also receive an $8 discount for All-Day Rides on race day.

Registration is $45 for the 5K and $25 for the 1K. A portion of all registrations benefits Camp Opportunity, a free camp for foster children in Santa Cruz County.

To register visit beachboardwalk.com/ Fun-Run ••• Helping Women on International Women’s Day Edward Jones Presents ‘Dresses & Desserts’ on March 18 ristin Asimakoupoulos at Edward Jones has come up with a way to celebrate International Women’s Day, and help local women in need.

It’s called “Dresses & Desserts.”

Drop in between 4-6 p.m. on Wed., March 18, at Jeremy Geels’ Edward Jones’ office (2121 41st Ave., Suite #209, Capitola) to donate gently used women’s clothing (including purses, shoes, jewelry) and mix and mingle with the women of Santa Cruz County. Cash or checks cannot be accepted.

Annette Hunt, owner of Curves of Aptos, is offering her location, 7000 Soquel Drive, Aptos, as a drop-off site for donors from March 1-18.

All donated items will be given to the Walnut Avenue Family & Women’s Shelter in Santa Cruz.

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“Steinbruner” from page 6 If I am elected, the public process will improve such that people are involved in a meaningful way in issues that affect them, and I will be responsive to their concerns.

I will work to pass a flagging and staking ordinance for proposed developments to alert the public to projects early in the permit process so they are not caught by surprise and have no meaningful way to have their concerns and ideas addressed other than reactive legal action. Regular town hall meetings and constituent hours during evening and weekends will allow working people to participate.

I will work hard to ensure those who care about issues are apprised of their progress, even if the project is stalled, by initiating a database Distrct 2 to automatically send notice of project activity to anyone who expressed interest.

I will support increasing the inclusionary affordable housing to 20%, and

RSVP to Kristin.asimakoupoulos@ edwardjones.com or 831-462-8242.

••• Groundwater Plan Debuts he Groundwater Sustainability Plan for the Santa Cruz Mid-County Basin was posted to the state’s Sustainable Groundwater Management Act Portal on Feb. 19.

The public comment period for the plan will be open for 75 days following the posted date.

For information, or to submit comments to the Department of Water Resources during the public comment period, visit: http://sgma. water.ca.gov/portal ••• House a Shakespearean This Summer anta Cruz Shakespeare seeks modestlypriced, furnished rentals that have a private entrance, bath, and kitchen, from mid-June to mid-September, with some shorter term options for actors for the summer season.

Also needed: donated guest rooms within family homes for interns and other company members. Perks include free show tickets and acknowledgment in our season program.

Contact Sue Dormanen at sue@santacruzshakespeare.org or call at 831-460-6396 x8. n

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Photo by Kyle Head on Unsplash

require it apply to projects of rental units as well as for-sale units.

I will work hard to cooperatively support UC Santa Cruz building oncampus housing for increasing student enrollment and staff, as well as support land-use policy changes to allow Cabrillo College to provide limited on-campus student housing. This will bring relief to those who live here and struggle to find housing they can afford while reducing traffic congestion.

I will require cost/benefit analysis of all nonprofits funded by county taxpayers, and ensure any organizations under investigation are not funded. I will fund County Fire with 15% of the $18 million received annually in Proposition 172 public safety tax monies.

If I am elected, people can expect to see a Board of Supervisor public discussion of important issues, rather than countless unanimous votes with no questions asked of staff. n

COMMUNITY NEWS

County Public Health Monitors Coronavirus O n Feb. 11, the World Health Organization announced an official name for the disease that is causing the current outbreak of coronavirus disease, COVID-19.

Santa Cruz County Public Health officials are closely working with California Department of Public Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Bay Area health officials to monitor COVID-19, which originated in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. To date, there are no cases reported in Santa Cruz County.

As of Feb 21, 17 cases have been confirmed in the United States in California, Arizona, Illinois, Massachusetts, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin. 10 cases have been identified in California. All were people who traveled from Wuhan, China.

Chinese health officials have reported thousands of cases in China with severe illness, including over a hundred deaths.

The CDC is monitoring for illness among travelers arriving from China at

20 U.S airports and recommends travelers avoid all nonessential travel to China.

“We are monitoring the situation closely to protect the health of Santa Cruz County residents and limit the spread of this virus,” said Dr. Gail Newel, Santa Cruz County health officer. “The potential for a disease outbreak is always a public health concern. We are working with health care providers and community partners to review emergency procedures and we are prepared to take action should someone in our county becomes ill with this new virus.”

Coronaviruses are a large group of viruses common among animals and humans. COVID-19 is a newly discovered coronavirus and is being spread person to person; the source is not yet known.

While Santa Cruz County Public Health considers this a serious public health threat, based on current information, the risk to the general public in Santa Cruz County is considered low at this time. However, it is likely there will

A COVID-19 molecule.

This is a picture of CDC’s laboratory test kit for COVID-19. CDC is shipping the test kits to laboratories CDC has designated as qualified, including U.S. state and local public health laboratories, Department of Defense (DOD) laboratories and select international laboratories. The test kits are bolstering global laboratory capacity for detecting COVID-19.

continue be more cases reported in the U.S. in the coming days and weeks.

Symptoms ypically, human coronaviruses cause mild-to-moderate respiratory illness.

Symptoms are very similar to the flu, including runny nose, headache, cough,

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sore throat, fever, and/or shortness of breath. Older adults and people with underlying health conditions may be at increased risk.

Anyone who has recently traveled from China, or came in close contact with someone who traveled from China, and develops a fever and lower respiratory symptoms, such as a cough or shortness of breath within 14 days after leaving the area, should call their doctor or health care provider and share travel history and symptoms before visiting the clinic or emergency room.

For prevention, health officials advise washing hands with liquid soap and water, and rubbing for at least 20 seconds, covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing, and staying home if you are sick. n

Jessica Schattenburg: Aptos Poetry Contest Times Winner

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his poem was written for the late Carrie Dianda McCoid one of my most beloved friends who’s untimely death in October of 2012 broke the hearts of the community, especially the dance community.

She was a great lover of poetry and the arts.

You Are My Forever Do not cry for me Keep not a heavy heart For it shall weigh us both down I run free dancing in the wind Do not harness your regrets Untether them Let them fly away

Like a butterfly in winter

In those quiet moments You will find me there Like a reflection in still water Always looking back at you Carry me in your heart Honor me by being true to yourself Live not a life of sorrow, but of joy Sing your song and dance in the rain For when you sing & dance I hear you and see you Remembering me as I was And you are my forever ... n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 1st 2020 / 9

COMMUNITY NEWS

Election Observers Welcome S anta Cruz County Clerk Gail Pellerin invites residents to observe activities associated with the March 3 election.

The schedule of activities is as follows: Vote-by-Mail Ballot Mailings: As of Feb. 19, staff mailed 122,071 vote-by-mail ballots, 3,979 of which are second ballots and 112,996 are permanent vote-by-mail voters. Santa Cruz County has 162,497 registered voters.

So far, 6,784 vote-by-mail ballots have come back from voters. When vote-bymail ballots are returned, ballots are keyed in as received and signatures verified. If signatures do not compare or a signature is missing, efforts will be made to contact the voter. There is a letter posted on our website for voters to complete to “cure” their signature. Location: County Clerk/ Elections Department, 701 Ocean St., Room 310, Santa Cruz.

Vote-by-Mail Ballot Processing: Elections Code allows election officials to begin processing vote-by-mail ballots 10 business days prior to the election. Activities include: opening ballot envelopes, removing ballots, duplicating damaged ballots, and preparing the ballots to be counted. Location: County Clerk/Elections Department, 701 Ocean St., Room 310, Santa Cruz.

Early voting and “Same Day” Registration: Voters can pick up a vote-by-mail ballot at the Santa Cruz County Elections Office and Watsonville City Clerk’s Office.

Both offices will operate as a “Same Day” Voter Registration Center. Voters who missed the Feb. 18 deadline to register may register and vote up to and including Election Day. This service will be expanded to 8 additional locations starting Saturday, Feb. 29. Hours are: Saturday & Sunday, February 29 & March 1, 9am to 5pm; Monday, March 2, 8am to 5pm; Tuesday, March 3, 7am to 8pm.

Locations are: • Simpkins Family Swim Center – 979 17th Ave, Santa Cruz • UC Santa Cruz Bay Tree Conference Center – Quarry Plaza • Capitola City Hall — Community Room, 420 Capitola Ave, Capitola • Community Foundation — 7807 Soquel Drive, Aptos • Santa Cruz County Behavioral Health – 1430 Freedom Blvd, Watsonville • Pajaro Valley Community Conference Room – 85 Neilson St, Watsonville

• Scotts Valley Skypark classroom – 361 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley • Zayante Fire Protection District – 7700 E. Zayante Road, Felton Voters may go to a polling place any time between 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 3, and register and vote there. It is recommended they go to the polling place for their current address so they will get a ballot containing all the contests they are eligible to vote.

Election Officer Training Classes Classes began in February.

Check www.votescount.com for schedules.

Election Day: A list of polling sites is posted at www.votescount.com. Polling places are open Tuesday, March 3, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day. Anyone is allowed to observe any procedure at the polls (except as to how someone voted).

Persons are permitted to observe voting but MUST NOT INTERFERE with the duties of the Elections Officers.

They may not handle official ballots or intrude upon the voting process.

There will be a Public Alpha Index at the polls that will be updated during the day as to who has voted. Poll checkers may view that index to see who has voted.

Voting in the Primary — Party Matters: Under a new urgency law

10 / March 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

signed by the Governor on February 13, voters may change their political party at the polls without having to re-register to vote.

They will simply fill out a short form indicating their new party of registration, and they will be allowed to vote a regular ballot. This is available only for those voters who are registered to vote at their current address under their current name.

If the voter has moved or changed their name, they can still change their party, but they must do it under the Same Day Voter Registration procedures.

Since a voter’s political party registration will determine which Presidential Primary ballot they can vote, simplifying party changes at the polls will be very helpful.

Voters who are registered as No Party Preference (aka, nonpartisan, decline to state, independent) will be offered the option of voting one of four ballots: • Democratic • American Independent • Libertarian or • A ballot without the office of president NPP voters who are voting by mail and received a ballot without the office of president who wish to get a replacement ballot for one of the parties above, may

O

do so by calling or emailing our office or completing a form on our website. Or they can surrender their ballot at their m polling place and get the ballot of their A choice. t Election Night Procedures and Ballot Counting: After the polls close, results from t the vote-by-mail ballots will be released at c the office and online at www.votescount. c com. Election officials who have worked c the polls will bring their voting equipment, t indexes, and voted ballots from the polls t to one of four return centers located in the county. t All ballots will be brought to the r County Government Center on Election s Night for the votes to be tallied. Plans c are to release four vote count reports on Election Night, vote-by-mail ballots at 8:30 t p.m., some poll results at 11 p.m., more “ precinct results after midnight, and a final s semi-official report once all precincts are in C and tallied, which could be 2 a.m. or later. p There will be a number of outstanding w ballots to be counted during the canvass: provisional, remaining vote-by-mail i ballots, damaged ballots, ballots that need to be duplicated, etc.

The semi-official results will be available in hardcopy at the office and online at www.votescount.com. Location: County Clerk/Elections Department, 701 Ocean St., Room 310, Santa Cruz.

The Official Canvass: Begins Wednesday, March 4. The canvass includes processing all remaining ballots, researching provisional ballots and same day voter registration ballots, auditing the polls, and conducting a 1% manual tally of the paper ballots.

A random drawing of the precincts subject to the 1% manual tally will take place at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 5. Location: County Clerk/Elections Department, 701 Ocean St., Room 310, Santa Cruz.

Certified Vote: The elections official shall prepare a certified statement of the results of the election within 28 days of the election which is falls on a holiday, Tuesday, March 31, so it is moved to the next business day, Wednesday, April 1. Location: County Clerk/Elections Department, 701 Ocean St., Room 310, Santa Cruz. n ••• If you would like to be an election observer, notify Gail Pellerin at gail.pellerin@ santacruzcounty.us, 831-454-2419, or Tricia Webber at tricia.webber@santacruzcounty.us, 831-454-2409.

COMMUNITY NEWS

CASA Welcomes New Advocates O n Feb. 18, Santa Cruz County Superior Court Judge Timothy Schmal swore in 26 community members as Court Appointed Special Advocates for children in foster care.

All completed CASA‘s 35-hour training program.

CASA of Santa Cruz County recruits, trains, and supervises volunteer Advocates who are matched one on one with a child in the county’s dependency (foster care) court system advocating for them the entire time they have a case open with the court.

As officers of the court, CASA volunteers ensure that the children’s needs are recognized and their best interests are considered in the courtroom, school, and in the community.

Judge Schmal, who presides over the Juvenile Dependency Court, said, “It was such a privilege to swear in such a large, enthusiastic group of new CASAs. They will have a profound, positive impact on the lives of the kids who they will serve.

CASAs also play an invaluable role in informing and educating judges about

their court-appointed kids — in ways that others often don’t or can’t.”

There is a great need for bilingual and male volunteers, and people from all cultures and professions and of all ethnic and educational backgrounds are invited to learn more.

Here are the dates of informational sessions for community members to learn about getting involved with CASA:

• Tuesday, March 10: 6 p.m. at Live Oak Family Resource Center, 1740 17thAve., Santa Cruz.

• Saturday, March 14: 10 a.m. at CASA, 813 Freedom Blvd., Watsonville.

• Wednesday, March 18: 5:30 p.m. at CASA, 813 Freedom Blvd., Watsonville.

• Thursday, March 26: 2 p.m. at Staff of Life, 1266 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz • Friday, March 27: noon at California Coffee, 9105 Soquel Drive, Aptos. n ••• For information on how to become a CASA volunteer advocate, contact CASA Outreach Coordinator, Cita Rasul, at 831-761-2956, ext.

102, or visit www.casaofsantacruz.org.

New CASAs (from left) Back Row: Jane Shtalenkova, Amber Burke, Jill Borba, Nazanin Askari Balsa, Maureen Ricketts, Emily Chambers, Brandon Napoli, Gina Vaggioli, Maria Bahena, Melanie Sobel, Daniel Atler, Laura Chiavola-Larson, Alicia Gaytan, Honorable Judge Timothy Schmal, Rachel McCulloughSanden, Lilly Galvan, Nora Dougherty, Lilie Pham, Brian Sanford, John David. • Front Row: Jenny Hundemer (CASA trainer), Jacky Rodriquez, Mel Hunt, Marsha Heidt, Amelia Cutten, Rita Montserrat Medina-Bahena, Shoshana Perrey. Not pictured but sworn in: Pam Kotler.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 1st 2020 / 11

COMMUNITY NEWS

Donate Blood During Red Cross Month T he American Red Cross urges the public to join its lifesaving mission by giving blood or platelets this March in celebration of Red Cross Month. Donors of all blood types, especially type O, are urgently needed to help ensure blood is available for patients this spring.

Every day, thousands of patients depend on blood donations to help save their lives – patients like Heath Cornford who spent his first 217 days of life in the hospital. Born in February 2018 with an abnormal narrowing of the heart, Heath has undergone many complex surgeries

— including a heart transplant — and required a number of blood transfusions.

“I can’t tell you how thankful we are for the lifesaving donations that saved our son,” said his mom, Mylinda Cornford.

“Blood is something you can donate for free. You can make an impact, save a life and give back to your community.”

Heath recently celebrated his second birthday and is a thriving, energetic toddler.

Heroes of all blood types, especially type O, are urgently needed to provide hope and help for patients across the country.

American Red Cross Central Coast Chapter, 2960 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, will host a blood drive March 12 from 10 a.m.

- 3 p.m.

Make an appointment by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. n

State Invests $4.5 Million to Address Dementia

T

he California Department of Public Health has awarded $750,000 each to six local health jurisdictions to help address dementia. The funding will arrive over three consecutive fiscal years.

“California has more aging people than any other state in the nation, including more people living with Alzheimer’s, other age-related brain dementias, and the

12 / March 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

people who care for them” said former first lady, Maria Shriver.

She added, “The Healthy Brain Initiative will help reveal critical and factual insights on how communities throughout the state can prioritize brain health and care-giving.

“Dementia” page 15

COMMUNITY NEWS

Saturday Academy: Learning for All

P

By Alicia Jimenez

ajaro Valley Unified School District is All In, Every Day when it comes to learning opportunities for our students. Enrichment programs are an important component of our students’ educational journey and we are proud to have expanded access to learning focusing on science, technology, engineering, arts, and science activities through our established Saturday Academy.

Dr. Michelle Rodriguez, Superintendent of Schools, notes, “Saturday Academy allows all students to gain access to engaging activities, academic support and interventions that enrich our students’ learning. The Academy is a safe and structured environment where handson instruction maximizes potential in each student and fosters a passion for lifelong learning.”

Saturday Academy offers a venue for our community partners, parents, staff, and students to come together to participate in a variety of exciting educational activities that promote meaningful learning skills.

The Academy’s programs are designed to engage students in activities related to STEAM, reading and mathematics, sports, and 21st century skills, to name a few. These activities enhance the learning of educational standards in an environment that is relaxed and highly interactive.

Students attend from 8 a.m. until noon and they are provided a lunch and break time during the sessions. Students who attend and have a previous absence from school can get credit for making up the absence and allows students the opportunity to extend their learning. In the year 2018-19, PVUSD had more than 229 sessions attended by more than 20,000 students in the Academy.

Field trips are a wonderful way to

learn and the Academy is organizing collaborating with our partners to ensure our students can experience them. On March 21, Calabasas will participate on a field trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, an excellent venue for our students to begin to think deeper about the richness of marine life in our own community and meet people who are passionate about ocean life.

We look forward to welcoming your student to Saturday Academy. For additional details, please visit PVUSD.net. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 1st 2020 / 13

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Student Art Show Opens March 11 A reception is planned 5-6 p.m.

March 11 for a new student exhibition, Visual and Performing Arts Winter/Spring 2020 at the Pajaro Valley Unified School District Office, 1st floor, 294 Green Valley Road, Watsonville. The exhibition will be up through May 1.

PVUSD VAPA Winter/Spring 2020 presents a snapshot of the many visual art and performing arts projects produced by students and staff. As the year 2020 suggests, the arts can bring a clarity of vision to students’ learning experiences. VAPA teachers help young people understand the fundamentals of visual and performing arts.

Students make artwork exploring a variety of art making materials; they get first-hand experience singing in choir, practicing instruments and learning world music. Additionally, PVUSD students are introduced to playwrights, and acting in drama, and connect their minds and bodies through dance.

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Seeking Volunteer Visitors for Spring Training Volunteer Visitors bring the gifts of companionship and practical support to hospice patients and their families. Volunteers receive 25 hours of training which starts on April 15th. Bi-lingual and bi-cultural volunteers are especially needed.

"Training like this -- makes me love the world more, love people more, love life more."

Rachel, Volunteer Visitor

“Dementia” from page 12 As the Chair of the Governor Gavin Newsom’s Task Force on Alzheimer’s Prevention, Preparedness and a Path Forward, we are excited about this initiative and look forward to collaborating as we lead the way to become a cognitively healthy country at every stage of life.”

“There are about 670,000 people in California who are living with Alzheimer’s dementia, with very mild to advanced symptoms,” said Dr. Sonia Angell, California Department of Public Health director and state public health officer.

“Their needs and those of the families

and caregivers who help support them varies across a spectrum. The time is now to work with communities and partners to find durable solutions.”

Funding will go to Los Angeles County, Placer County, Sacramento County, San Diego County, Santa Clara County and Shasta County to support data and evaluating programs, educating the public, mobilizing local stakeholders in effective community-based interventions and strengthening the knowledge and skills of health care professionals who care for people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias and their family caregivers. n

Applications are due by April 6th. Visit www.hospicesantacruz.org to learn more or call (831) 430-3000 and ask for Forbes Ellis.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 1st 2020 / 15

BUSINESS PROFILE

A

Pelican House Watch

Checking On Your Home When You’re Away

By Erin Kelly-Allshouse

new home-watching business is serving neighborhoods throughout Santa Cruz County.

Owners David and Teri Parks, lifelong Santa Cruz residents, got requests to “keep an eye on” local residences that were clients with Parks Construction — their own company for 30 years.

They launched the new company, Pelican House Watch, in January 2019. Services include regular home visits to view the exterior, and in some cases, the interior of unoccupied and parttime vacation homes.

A typical home watch visit includes a walk around the entire David Parks perimeter of the home, observing conditions of siding and trim, doors and windows, gutters and downspouts, and looking for obvious issues that may affect the home as well as any changes from previous visits. A check of the grounds and walkways are often also included in the service agreement.

The company then provides a realtime report using software developed by iAuditor. The homeowner can view the reports and schedule and cancel house watch visits as needed.

Pelican House Watch provides similar services to condominium and townhome homeowner associations, inspecting and reporting on walkways, parking lots and common areas of the communities. This keeps the property managers and board of directors current on issues affecting these properties. Inspections and reporting are customized to fit the needs of the client.

Agreements also include entry into the home to check for signs of leaks from plumbing, the roof or siding. Conditions such as temperature settings for furnaces, unusual odors, and signs of pest infestation are monitored. Any conditions that may need to be addressed are reported to the owners.

The recent wind storm that caused damages in Santa Cruz County prompted unscheduled visits to check for downed trees and displaced lawn furniture.

During heavy rains, Parks said, visits may be needed to check on rain gutters and drainage. A visit after dark may be scheduled to observe the operation of outdoor lighting, or interior lights that are set to turn on or off.

The Parks family: David, Teri and daughter Savannah (center).

“We have one client, a condominium running a construction business or manmedical complex, which uses us to monitor aging several multimillion-dollar public their trash and recycling enclosures each works contracts simultaneously,” Parks week, as well as provide readings of water said. “Since most are second homes and vacation homes, and usually located in meters on a regular basis,” Parks said.

Other services include stored car very special parts of Santa Cruz County, it warm-ups, trash service, pressure washing gives us the opportunity to enjoy the views decks and patios, airing out the house and of the beaches and surroundings while earning a living at the same time.” preparing for the owner’s visit.

While the business is still small, Parks Co-founder David Parks attended Laurel Elementary School, Cabrillo College said, it affords him the ability to walk and UC Berkeley, where he got his bach- routes between homes along East Cliff and Opal Cliffs Drive. elor’s degree in architecture.

His wife Teri, also a Santa Cruz native, He began Parks Construction Company specializing in repairs and is CFO and secretary of Pelican House remodeling for homeowners and HOA Watch. She has experience as an admincommunities throughout Santa Cruz. For istrative assistant for law firms as well as a time, he was construction superintendent at a private school. Most recently she has for a large local company building town- been a photographer’s assistant and she homes and condominiums, shopping markets her own line of photography. Over center and doctors’ offices. He also worked the years, she provided design and interior for the County of Santa Clara, retiring as finish selections for Parks Construction’s new home building and renovation construction manager in April 2019.

“For the most part, performing the projects.

“Teri and I have been married for 32 walk-through of the homes and reporting to the owner is stress-free compared to years and most of our careers we never

16 / March 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Photo Credit: Erin Kelly-Allshouse

planned to work together full time,” David Parks said. “Teri has always assisted with bookkeeping as well as interior design work on custom homes that we’ve built both in both Santa Cruz, and for two years, in Bend, Oregon … it was our friends and family — as well as the surf and sun — that brought us back to Santa Cruz.”

The couple, who live in Santa Cruz Gardens, have three daughters, Kiela, Katelyn and Savannah. The youngest daughter, Savannah, helps with the business.

The owners of Pelican House Watch call it a “concierge service” for absentee homeowners and part-time dwellers, as well as for HOA communities and commercial office complexes. Let them customize a care package that will help you protect and watch over your home and properties. n ••• Office hours: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekdays,.

Home visits can take place on weekends and evenings if needed.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

$3K Grants Encourage Seismic Refits H omeowners in Aptos and Watsonville have until March 19 to apply for grants of $3,000 toward retrofit funding through California’s Earthquake Brace + Bolt program.

With $13.2 million in funding, the program will offer 4,400 retrofit grants in 2020. To date, almost 10,000 Californians have retrofit their homes through the program.

Today, more than 1.2 million homes in California are in high-seismic-hazard areas and are vulnerable, according to the California Residential Mitigation Program. Many homeowners know their

homes are at-risk when an earthquake occurs but are unaware they can protect their homes.

18 / March 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“By undergoing a seismic retrofit, older houses that were not built to withstand an earthquake are braced and bolted

into their foundation,” said Janiele Maffei, Chief Mitigation Officer for the California Earthquake Authority. “This helps to prevent the home from sliding off its foundation in the event of an earthquake and reduces the amount of damage a house can incur.”

To apply, visit EarthquakeBraceBolt. com. A searchable directory with more than 1,000 licensed, FEMA-trained contractors is available. Once registration closes, participating homeowners will be selected through a random drawing and notified via email if they have been selected or if they are on the wait list. n

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 1st 2020 / 19

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FEATURED COLUMNIST

We’re #InThisTogether with Zun-Zun

By Rebecca Rubin The Soquel Creek Water District is engaged in multiple approaches to combat overdrafting of the groundwater basin and seawater intrusion into our local water supply.

It’s important to remember that these severe water supply challenges affect everyone in our community — and we are all part of the solution. Over the next few months, this series of Water Wisdom columns will feature the viewpoints of local community members and organizations talking about the importance of creating and maintaining a sustainable water supply, as a community.

F

or the last 20 years, Zun-Zun has maintained a clear focus on its mission: To educate kids about the environment, specifically around water, its crucial role in daily life, and everyone’s responsibility to protect it. Zun-Zun, a musical duo of Gwynne Cropsey and her husband Stephen Synder, accomplishes this through a blend of humor, movement, and song, engaging kids locally and all over the world. Their fun, musical performances reach over 100,000 audience members annually.

Based in Santa Cruz, Zun-Zun’s educational goals in many ways mirror those of the Soquel Creek Water District — to help the next generation understand the value of water in our lives, and the great need to protect our water resources.

By helping kids learn about watershed pollution prevention, water conservation, water recycling, the impacts of climate change, and how all of these aspects fit together, Zun-Zun’s programs really help to reinforce the District’s own ongoing messaging to the local community.

“There’s nothing more important than a dependable water supply, and many areas of California don’t have that,” says Gwynne. “We’re very fortunate to have local groundwater, but we must be vigilant and make sure it’s preserved and protected.

That starts with educating kids about the importance of water in our everyday lives.”

From the District’s perspective, Gwynne is absolutely right. Zun-Zun’s efforts to educate kids about water will help ensure they have the knowledge and understanding to support water and groundwater sustainability as they grow into adulthood.

Gwynne points out, “Many people take water for granted, and our programs try to change that attitude at a young age. “#InThisTogether” page 24

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 1st 2020 / 21

Who’s Watching Your House While You’re Away?

LET PELICAN HOUSE WATCH BE YOUR EYES IN THE FIELD WITH TRAINED, BONDED AND INSURED HOME WATCH PERSONNEL. Pelican House Watch makes regualr visits to your home or property and provides “real-time” reports to you. To arrange service, call or visit our website: PelicanHouseWatch.com

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22 / March 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Medication Errors E

ach, and every day, there are thousands of errors made with medication administration in the United States.

In 2017, 1.3 million errors were reported.

The majority of medication errors are preventable. Top drugs involved with errors include antihypertensive agents, opioids, and insulin. Medication errors may be made by the healthcare provider, including pharmacists, as well as by consumers (patients).

All healthcare professionals strive for an error-free practice.

It is praiseworthy and suitable to work towards such a lofty goal.

However, healthcare providers are only human. And to err is human, even in this age of high-tech medication systems. Consumers (patients) have as equally a difficult task being successful in consuming medications properly.

Before we proceed, it is proper to define what a medication error is. It is an unintended result (either of omission or commission) or an end-result that does not achieve the intended outcome. The most common types of medication mistakes include dosing errors, the wrong med administered, and inadvertent overdosing.

It is important to touch upon various categories in which medication errors can be commonly found: • lack of knowledge of the drug by consumer (patient) • lack of information for the consumer (patient) • slips and memory lapses by the consumer (patient) • transcription errors made by the healthcare provider • faulty drug specific checks by healthcare provider • errors with medication administration systems • inadequate monitoring • drug stocking and delivery problems • drug preparation errors • lack of standardization There are many other categories leading to medication errors. But for now, let me briefly address some of the above categories.

Unless you are a healthcare professional, a consumer (patient) does not have the detailed knowledge to at times avoid medication errors. Sound alike, look alike medication names continue to create

By Ron Conte, Pharm.D.

problems. Generic versus trade names can also be menacing. I often discovered some elderly patients taking both furosemide (generic Lasix) and Lasix as antihypertensive agents thinking these two pills are different. A few had blood pressure readings so low that they became incapacitated. Because furosemide (Lasix) is also a diuretic (eliminating fluid), some developed dehydration.

Consumers only receive the most salient points about specific drugs. It is important for all of us who take medication to have more input and control of our own drug therapy regimens. But it is not an easy task. Some drug therapy regimens can be quite complex. In addition, what are acceptable and safe parameters by which a consumer can govern her/his drug therapy?

Memory lapses occur even in those of us most knowledgeable about drugs. Some of us continue to miss taking drug doses even when we feel we have developed a fail-proof system for taking drugs properly.

Another factor for memory lapses may be due to drugs that impair memory.

Faulty drug specific checks and inadequate monitoring of the drug may lead to major errors. If you are taking a thyroid medication, how often should thyroid function tests be ordered and reviewed? If you are prescribed a diuretic such as hctz, furosemide, spironolactone, or others, when should potassium levels be drawn?

There can be major complications if specific lab tests are not ordered and reviewed at appropriate intervals.

Pharmacies may stock medications according to generic or trade names. It is possible that Zyrtec is stocked next to Zyprexa. During busy days, both technician and pharmacist must be very cautious and not pick the wrong medication. Zyrtec is a non-sedating antihistamine whereas Zyprexa is used to treat major behavioral health conditions. It seems obvious how disastrous a medication error can be with inappropriate dispensing of these two drugs.

As for drug preparation errors, there are a multitude of examples. Some drugs prepared for intravenous (IV) administration are only stable in normal saline.

If prepared in another commonly used diluent, 5% dextrose, the drug may be

unstable. So, it is imperative that there are standardized steps in how IV preparations are compounded. This would be imperative for all forms of drug preparation, especially chemotherapy.

Once again, this is a subject that requires a much more detailed review.

Hospitals and other healthcare facilities are required to provide detailed medication error reporting both to the state and federal

agencies that accredit them. The report is to include a process by which medication errors are to be reduced. n ••• If interested in learning more about medication errors, there are a number of online websites as well as a book entitled Medication Errors edited by Michael R. Cohen, MS, FASHP, and published by the American Pharmaceutical Association, Washington, D.C.

Women Innovators

ACROSS

1. Cause for September celebration 6. Net holder 9. Island near Java 13. “PokΘmon,” e.g.

14. *Alice Paul and Crystal Eastman wrote its first version in 1923, acr.

15. Archeologist’s find 16. Synagogue scroll 17. Bag in Paris 18. “Behind ____ Lines” 19. *Aviation pioneer 21. *She rebelled against sentimental novel 23. Nurses’ org.

24. Deceptive maneuver 25. Director’s cry 28. Snow and cycling helmet manufacturer 30. Low hemoglobin

35. Bryce Canyon state 37. Something to do 39. Lady’s Bella Notte date 40. Puerto ____ 41. Bone hollow 43. Slang for heroin 44. Cake cover 46. ____ and drab 47. Roman robe 48. “Purple People ____,” pl.

50. Defender of skies, acr.

52. Easter lead-in 53. Attention-getting interjection 55. Pres.

Truman’s 1947 creation, acr.

57. *She originated the little black dress 60. *”Hidden ____” 64. Knights’ feat of strength 65. *Mary Phelps Jacob patented the 1st modern one

67. Dickens’ Heep 68. Ladies’ fingers 69. Three strikes 70. Actress Rene 71. Crowd-sourced review platform 72. Lilliputian 73. Master of ceremonies

15. Feel indignant about something 20. Indian cuisine dip 22. *Sally Ride was 1st woman in space for this country 24. Speaker’s platform 25. *1st person to win two Nobel Prizes 26. Carthage’s ancient DOWN rival 1. Better than never?

27. Implied 2. a.k.a. midget 29. *She developed buffalo philosophy of 3. 100 cents in Ethiopia Objectivism 4. D-Day beach 31. Formerly, formerly 5. Move a picture 32. *Home of Wesleyan 6. Breather College, first college 7. Investment option, chartered to grant acr. degrees for women 8. Last European colony 33. Insect, postin China metamorphosis 9. Crooked 10. Sheltered, nautically 34. *Inventor of a newborn screening 11. Trace or outline test 12. Slippery surface

36. Use a whetstone 38. Caitlyn Jenner’s ex 42. Primitive calculators 45. Ulysses and Cary 49. Female 51. *Singular of #60 Across 54. Tennis-affected joint 56. Gold, to a chemist 57. Pepsi rival 58. Fling 59. Rush job notation 60. Inevitable occurrence 61. Reduced instruction set computer 62. Alleviate 63. Old Woman’s home 64. *Jennifer Lawrence played her in eponymous 2015 movie 66. Rivoli in Paris, e.g. © Statepoint Media

Answers on 25 »

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 1st 2020 / 23

FEATURED COLUMNIST

At Odds With Your Adult Children?

F

By Pat Hanson

or reasons of long distance, complicated custody issues, or a troubled daughter/son-in-law, many parents and grandparents are estranged from their adult children. Some are at odds with and separated from their adult children and/or grandkids.

A free monthly support group meets second Mondays at Christ Lutheran Church in Aptos. Here, alienated parents learn they are not alone with this issue, and strategize ways to hold on and thrive, not just survive their difficult situations. Some reconciliations have taken place.

Here is a sample of their stories with names changed to protect those who might be choosing legal paths to visitation: • After two years of no contact from her daughter and twin boys she’d seen at birth, Randa’s estrangement ended at the sudden funeral of her brother when her daughter showed up with the twins. Since that reconciliation, she helped her daughter with a restraining order against the son-in-law and she now babysits 5-year old twins regularly.

• Sally went for counseling with Oakland therapist Dr. Joshua Coleman author of “When Parents Hurt: Compassionate Strategies When You and Your Adult Child Don’t Get Along.” He wrote a letter to her daughter and son-in-law and received a vitriolic response from the son-in-law. Still hoping her daughter will become disentangled from this potentially violent situation, she comes monthly for support from her peers.

• Darlene, a mother of three in her 50s, gets to see her now nine-month granddaughter only once a month, and then only an hour at a time. Her daughterin-law thinks the way she holds the baby is not correct or good enough.

• Chelsea is an invisible auntie who because of her religious preference was denied access to two nieces she partially raised till they were 7. She

“#InThisTogether” from page 21 Kids love learning about things like water conservation, and not putting stuff in the storm drain.

They’re excited to spread the word and share their new knowledge with their families. It’s inspiring to see young people helping change perceptions about water, and our future. They’re going to grow up with a great appreciation for protecting our fragile water supplies.”

She’s impressed with the District’s efforts around preventing the groundwater basin from being contaminated by saltwater intrusion through water conservation programs, groundwater management, and creating new water supplies like Pure Water Soquel. “More and more people are now recognizing the critical need for the District’s work toward a sustainable groundwater supply,” Gwynne notes. “A lot of people don’t know that we now have a law mandating the regulation of our groundwater, but we do! It’s extraordinary that so many voices were heard as the District prepared its Community Water Plan. Now we’re in a much better place, with a lot of confidence that our local water supply can be preserved and sustained for the future.”

24 / March 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

named them in her will, saying, “at least they’ll get something.”

• Alice helped her daughter-in-law with after-school and many weekends of care for her 9-year-old grandson while her son was incarcerated. When he was released, they moved and did not respond to phone calls, texts and letters. All packages were returned by the post office “address unknown.”

• Grammy Fox’s daughter committed suicide while in jail after being told

by Child Protective Services that her 2-year-old daughter was going to be permanently placed with the foster parents instead of being returned to her mother and what she calls rhe “child’s bonded-bio family.’” Discovering other families with foster placement abuse issues that have created “system induced trauma syndrome” in both children and adults, she turned her pain into activism. She formed The Child & Family Rights Advocates #TakingOurFamiliesBack2020.

• James had been ex-communicated from his children’s family for 7 years before undertaking legal help to assure his grandparent visitation rights, which are not guaranteed in California.

• Chuck considered calling police about his daughter’s situation when his wrote a note to them prohibiting any kind of

As for Pure Water Soquel, Gwynne notes that blending highly treated, purified water with a groundwater drinking supply is nothing new: “In a perfect world we would just conserve enough to not deplete and destroy our groundwater, but we don’t, so we need a solution. It’s been done in southern California for a long time, and elsewhere in the US and the world. All water on Earth is already recycled, and this is just a way of speeding up that process … it’s the ultimate recycling!” Having personally consumed this kind of water many times, Gwynne confirms — it’s just good water.

Thanks to Gwynne and Zun-Zun, the “good water” message is getting out to thousands of kids, who are bringing it to their families. In the true spirit of #InThisTogether, Zun-Zun’s local outreach helps the community to better understand the District’s mission and efforts. And, it’s wonderful to know that the kids reached by Zun-Zun will grow up with such an appreciation and responsibility for our most precious natural resource. n ••• As always, if you have any questions about this month’s topic or anything else related to Soquel Creek Water District, feel free to contact the District at outreach@ soquelcreekwater.org or visit www.soquelcreekwater.org.

communication with his grandchildren whom his wife babysat for two years.

One member shared her wisdom with the group: “If you don’t leave your past in your past, it will destroy your future. Love what you have today, not what yesterday has taken away.” n ••• To connect with this group visit: www. invisiblegrandparent.com or Facebook.com/ InvisibleGrandparent

CALIFORNIA NEWS

SCCAS Featured Pet

AG: $1.6 Billion Settlement with Opioid Maker A

Opioids are a family of drugs including prescription painkillers and illegal drugs like heroin. Nationwide, prescription and illegal opioids are the main cause of drug overdose deaths.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, opioids were involved in more than 47,600 overdose deaths in 2017.

Between 1999 and 2017, more than 702,000 people died from a drug overdose.

California tracks opioid fatal overdoses, emergency rooms visits and hospitalizations and prescriptions.

In Santa Cruz County in 2018, there were 28 fatal opioid overdoses, 84 emergency room visits and 23 hospitalizations for opioid overdoses, and 146,325 prescriptions for opioids.

The prescription rate has come down from 799 per 1,000 residents in the second quarter of 2010 to 411 per 1,000 residents in the first quarter of 2019, the most recent data available.

The fatality rate was highest among those 30 to 34 years old, then 35 to 39 and 75 to 79.

The opioid fatality rate in Santa Cruz County was 8.5 deaths per 100,000 people; the state rate was 5.6 deaths per 100,000 people. n

Top Dog Film Festival

T

Rio Theatre • March 13

he Top Dog Film Festival is coming to the Rio Theatre in Santa Cruz 7 p.m. March 13, bringing a carefully curated collection of heart-warming stories about dogs and their people.

You’ll meet the surfing dog of Huntington Beach, the bus riding pooch of Seattle, the husky dogs of Alaska, and the working dogs of Australia.

There will be stories of people who dedicate their lives to improving the outcomes for man’s best friend plus a look at the lighter side of the pet-owner relationship.

Local sponsors are Pacific Paw, Pet Pals, Community Mobile Vet, Dr. Hannah Good and Santa Cruz Waves.

Surfing with Sugar

Tickets are $15-$15.75 with a portion of ticket sales to benefit the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter. n ••• Purchase at www.riotheatre.com/events2/2020/3/13/top-dog-film-festival or www. brownpapertickets.com/event/4489986

Simon: Bring Home Some Personality

M

eet Simon (A265357), a black and white six-year-old cat with a big personality! Simon came to the Shelter December 7th with two other cats, Beau and Lightning.

These cats were surrendered when their family could no longer care for them. Lightning has been adopted, but Beau and Simon are still looking for a new home.

Simon is a mischievous cat who likes to investigate his environment.

He enjoys playing with running water and searchers for a cozy spot high up in the house to sleep so that he can keep an eye on everyone!

Simon is a smart cat who is looking for a new home to watch over and explore. Do you have room in your heart and home for Simon?

To adopt your new friend, visit one of the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter locations, or their website at www.scanimalshelter.org. n

••• Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter has two full-service, open-admission shelters: Santa Cruz Location (Public Entrance): 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 Hours: Daily 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Wednesdays: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Watsonville Location: 580 Airport Blvd, Watsonville, CA 95076 Hours: Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed 12-1) Closed on Sunday SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182

crossword on 23 »

ttorney General Xavier Becerra today announced a global settlement framework between state attorneys general, local subdivisions, and Mallinckrodt, its subsidiaries, and certain other affiliates.

Mallinckrodt is currently the largest generic opioid manufacturer in the United States.

In the agreement, Mallinckrodt agrees to pay $1.6 billion in cash to a trust that will cover the costs of opioid addiction treatment and related efforts, with the potential for increased payment to the trust.

Mallinckrodt also agrees that its future generic opioid business will be subject to stringent injunctive terms that, among other things, will prohibit marketing of its opioid products and ensure systems are in place to prevent the drugs from falling into the wrong hands.

“Nothing can undo the devastating loss and grief inflicted by the opioid epidemic upon victims and their families, but this settlement with Mallinckrodt is an important step in the process of healing our communities,” said Becerra. “Our office has worked aggressively with our coalition partners to hold accountable bad actors who fueled this public health crisis.”

Women Innovators © Statepoint Media

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Your March Horoscope Times Publishing Group, Inc. Aries (March 21-April 20)

It can be difficult to put effort into the most important connections, especially when an emotional lethargy comes over you early in March. This makes it hard for others to deal with you while you’re in this mood, and makes it difficult for you to find the energy to care. You’re feeling much more energized mid-month. In fact, you feel like you’re your best self right now! But your reversed motivation is still a bit myopic. Do your best to not loose site of those helping you to your success and cheering you on. Late in the month you’re feeling a bit reckless. It can be fun to take risks, but you should still make sure you know what the consequences might be.

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

You find yourself struggling with a sense of loneliness as the month begin. There are times you want to be alone, but it can be difficult when you don’t seem to have a choice. There is change in the air mid-month, which is nice after the last week or two. Whatever doesn’t feel right in your life is a good target for starting a new path for your life. Romance is filling the air as March comes to a close. Have you met someone new? Are you ready to step up in a current relationship? This feels like a good time to take a step forward.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

You’re in a social mood early in the month. Doesn’t matter if you’re life-long friends or you just met: your conversations are not to be missed. “Life of the Party” indeed. By mid-March, you’re still in a mood to talk, but now is the time for tackling issues one at a time. The more people you have to deal with at the same time, the more difficult it will be to communicate properly. Your focus moves to the downtrodden as you look for new tasks to take on at the end of the month.

Time for a fundraiser!

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

You’re in an imaginative and inventive state of mind as March begins. So many ideas are flowing through you; now is the time to act! You’re ready to get organized through the middle of the month, something that hasn’t been your forte recently. In fact, maybe everyone suggesting you should has finally penetrated, but you’re in the mood to do the work now. Something has made clear late in the month how much you have to be thankful for. All the positive energy surrounding you is bleeding out, and thanking those who help make your life amazing feels like a natural act right now.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 23)

Some think a bit of strangeness can be daunting, but you’re reveling in your own weirdness as the month begins. The attention you’re drawing isn’t unwanted either. Your competitive genes are straining for action mid-month, and your friends and family find themselves on the receiving end.

And you’re not in the mood to be affable if you’re not winning. You’ve calmed down by the end of March, which will be helpful if there are any relationships you may have put a strain on this month.

Talking through any problems that have arose is the best thing you can do.

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sep. 22)

You’re looking ahead early in the month, thinking about new things and brainstorming new ideas.

Find some other people that can help you gather those thoughts and make them reality. Whatever comes out of those sessions could be very useful mid-March, and you could be ready to capitalize on the results. Time to go from theory to practice. Late in the month, your energy continues to push you forward. But it’s also a time to reflect on what your doing, because you’ll likely succeed, for better or for worse.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 23)

There is stress in your life early in March; a sour energy that makes interacting with others difficult. It’s hard to find your balance when it feels like everything is against you. Try to find some positive as you push through the miasma. You’re feeling a bit caged mid-month, and yet you’re also not looking to spend much. If there was a better time for finding the best deals on things you could use, we can think of it. Late in the month a feeling of optimism starts to replace the stress and fog from the before. You can finally see the positive things in your life and how to take the next steps forward.

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

You feel smart! The start of the month is a perfect time to dive into projects and new ideas you’ve been ruminating on recently. Your usual circle may not be able to follow your plans though, so finding some like-minded people to bounce ideas off could help. Mid-month is the time to act upon your ideas. All the planning and discussion from before are ready to put into motion. Time to make dreams come true! As March comes to a close, you still find yourself focused and driven, but you also have a confidence and sense of self that others seem to be drawn too. They can see your bright future, too.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

There’s an intellectual air about you early in the month, something that you’re having a hard time reigning in. You don’t mean to talk over people’s heads, but you do seem to be explaining yourself more than usual. You always have a desire to succeed, but the fire lit late in March is pushing you harder than ever. You know your goal, and you’re ready to put in more effort than you ever have to achieve it. As the month comes to a close, even you are surprised by what you’re accomplishing. Now isn’t the time to be distracted, but a short break to offer those less fortunate some help does feel important.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20)

It’s a rough time for you early in March. You’re not the most enjoyable companion at the moment, but that’s not the worst thing in the world. You’ve been here before; you’ll come out of it again.

You’re feeling more social mid-month, but you’re even more interested in working though tasks you’ve let linger. You’ll be in a much better place when all these chores are behind you. As the month comes to a close, your diligence has left you with a rare sense of freedom to pursue some frivolous indulgences. It’s time to have some fun!

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Weeding Earlier Rather Than Later

By Tony Tomeo

W

eeding is not much fun. Some of us might enjoy the relaxing monotony of productive weeding. Realistically though, most of us would prefer to do something else in the garden. There is certainly plenty of other chores that need to be done now, after earlier rain, and before the weather gets significantly warmer. However, such weather is why it is important to start weeding earlier than later.

By definition, weeds are weeds, because they are unwanted. They get to be unwanted by dominating space and exploiting resources more aggressively than wanted plants. Some innately grow faster and more aggressively than most other plants. Some are innately prolific with seed. Some employ multiple tactics to gain unfair advantages. Weeding is how we help our gardens compete.

Weeds grow throughout the year.

Most slow down through the dry warmth of summer, and many die off then.

However, there are always some weeds growing somewhere. When they die off, it is only after they have dispersed seed for their next generation. Some generate a few generations annually. Some are perennial weeds, or even shrubs, vines and trees, which survive for many years.

Weeding is more of a concern now because the majority of weeds grow so much more aggressively after the earliest rain of winter. Warming weather later in winter accelerates their proliferation. This is the time of year that weeds start to crowd desirable plants. If weeding is delayed for too long, weeds eventually bloom and toss seed. Some weeds extend stolons to disperse vegetatively.

The good news is that the same rain that promotes the proliferation of weeds

Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb. 18)

You’re thinking about the future as the month begins. Not just yours, but your friends, your family, maybe even the whole world. You want to make everything better, so don’t keep your ideas to yourself.

You’re feeling a need for freedom mid-month. You know there are parts of your life that seem to be holding you back, and it’s going to take some work to find your way out. Late in March, the desire to break free grows stronger. It’s harder to be polite now. Time to make something happen!

Pisces (Feb. 19-Mar. 20)

Your desire for beauty is strong as the month begins. A beautiful sunrise, a lovely art exhibit, a gorgeously-set table, a perfect necklace; any form of beauty is calling to you, and you’re not thinking about the cost (at least, not right now). Your shyness is coming to the forefront midMarch, making it hard to socialize or put yourself forward. This isn’t the best time to be on a podium, although you could probably push through individual interactions. You’re feeling much more social as the month comes to a close … in fact, your desires are embarrassingly strong, leaving you looking for alternative outlets.

•••

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Pendulous blooms hang like delicate icicles.

Rain makes weeds grow like weeds.

also facilitates weeding. Weeds are easier to pull while the soil is still damp than they will be as the soil dries later in spring and summer. Also, while weeds are still fresh and turgid, they are less likely to leave roots or stolons behind in the soil. They are more difficult to pull intact as they begin to deteriorate later.

Furthermore, weeding should be done before weeds bloom and disperse seed for subsequent generations. Some are sneaky and quick.

••• Silk Tassel ith so many exotic species to enjoy in our gardens, it is easy to miss what might be growing wild just beyond.

Silk tassel, Garrya elliptica, is endemic to coastal slopes within 30 miles of the ocean, between San Luis Obispo and Newport, Oregon. Yet, it seems to be more popular abroad than it is here at home. It is more adaptable to refined landscapes than most other natives are.

Silk tassel is more tolerant to supplemental irrigation than most other species from the same region are. It actually prefers to be irrigated at least occasionally through summer, particularly in drier and warmer climates. However, as a native, it is resilient to lapses of irrigation too. If necessary for form or confinement, awkward and obtrusive stems can be selectively pruned out after bloom.

Long and elegantly pendulous catkins of tiny pale grayish white flowers bloom late in winter or early in spring. After bloom, dried catkins linger prettily into summer. Garden varieties are male, with longer blooms. ‘James Roof’ can produce catkins nearly a foot long. Female plants in the wild bloom with shorter catkins.

Glossy evergreen leaves are two to three inches long with wavy margins. n ••• Horticulturist Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo.com .

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS

Tuesdays OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS MEETING VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR 7 - 8 pm, Christ Lutheran Church, Gazebo, 10707 Soquel Dr., THE MONTEREY SYMPHONY The Monterey Symphony is seeking volunteers. If you Aptos love music and want to be involved, please call (831) Do you have a proble m with compulsive over- or undereating? Anorexia? Bulimia? Compulsive exercising?

646-8511 or visit www.montereysymphony.org for You are not alone. Drop into a free, friendly OA 12-Step more info. meeting with the solution. All are welcome!

For information on other meetings in Santa Cruz County: www.

ONGOING EVENTS santacruzoa.org/meetings Daily WRITING/DISCUSSION MEETING SANTA CRUZ ‘USED’ BOOKSHOP 6:30-7:30 p.m., Christ Lutheran Church, Gazebo Room, 10 am- 3 pm 2710 Chanticleer Ave. Santa Cruz 10707 Soquel Dr., Aptos, CA 95003 (At Hwy One and Grey Bears: Every Monday and Friday is $10Freedom Blvd) a-bag book sale. Fill up a shopping bag with books for only $10! Thousands of titles for $1.50 Do you have a problem with food? Please check out our or less: cookbooks, gardening, sci-fi, mysteries, free, friendly 12-Step support group with the solution.

All teens and adults welcome! classics and all sorts of fiction and nonfiction.

Non-profit Grey Bears has served our community For current times and locations of other meetings: www. santacruzoa.org/meetings. Or call our Hotline at (831) for 45 years. Grey Bears provides recycling 429-7906. services and accepts books and other donations for our thrift stores.

BINGO Proceeds benefit our Brown Bag Program, distributing nutri- 6:30 p.m. Santa Cruz Elks Lodge, 150 Jewell St. tious food to 3,900 seniors every week.

BINGO EVERY TUESDAY. Buy-in begins at $21. The Snack Bar is open with goodies and dinner specials.

Weekdays BUSINESS DEBTORS ANONYMOUS CASA ORIENTATIONS TO BECOME ADVOCATES FOR CHILDREN 5:15-6:30pm, Calvary Episcopal Church, Parish Hall, 532 Center Street, Santa Cruz.

CASA empowers volunteers to directly influence We specifically focus on recovering from debting on life-changing decisions affecting children in foster care. Court appointed special advocates are one’s business. everyday people that, with just a few hours a week For more information: 831-425-3272. can have a lifetime of impact for a child who has Tuesdays & Wednesdays been abused or neglected.

SURVIVORS SUPPORT GROUPS More info www.casaofsantacruz.org or call 831-761-2956 Monarch Services offers a safe space to meet x102 other survivors of domestic violence, sexual Second Mondays assault, and human trafficking survivors, and to listen or share experiences. Childcare provided COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS OF SANTA CRUZ 7-8:30 p.m., Quaker Meeting House, 225 Rooney St. Santa Cruz on site.

Spanish – Tuesdays 6:00-7:30 p.m. Servicios Parents of a child who died at any age, from any cause, any length of time ago, are invited to join The Monarca, 233 E. Lake Avenue, Watsonville (831) Compassionate Friends of SC for our monthly grief 722-4532 support meeting. Opening circle followed by smaller English – Wednesdays 6:00-7:30 p.m. Monarch connection groups.

Services, 1590 Seabright Avenue, SC (831) 425Grief materials available. Bereaved grandparents 4030 and adult siblings are also welcome. NonFor more information, visit www.monarchscc.org religious.

Visit www.tcfsantacruz.com or call 831.332.9893 for more Tuesdays & Thursdays information.

FREE PILATES CLASSES AT TEMPLE BETH EL 10 a.m., Temple Beth El, 3055 Porter Gulch Rd., Aptos Third Mondays Please join us every Tuesday and Thursday at 10 am in STITCHERS BY THE SEA the social hall at Temple Beth El in Aptos (3055 Porter 7 –9 p.m., St. Stephan’s Lutheran Church, 2500 Soquel Ave., Gulch Rd) for a lively and challenging 60 minute Pilates Santa Cruz Strength Class. The classes are free and everybody is The Santa Cruz County chapter of the Embroiderers welcome. Donation are welcome.

Guild of America meets on the third Monday of every month, except June and December. Meetings are free For more information https://www.tbeaptos.org to attend. All are welcome.

Wednesdays ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION Mondays & Tuesdays 1st & 3rd Wednesdays: 5:30-7 p.m.

WOMENCARE ARM-IN-ARM 2nd & 4th Wednesdays: 2-3:30 p.m.

12:30 - 2 p.m.

Alzheimer’s Association, 550 Water Street, Ste L2, SC WomenCARE ARM-in-ARM support group for If you have a family member who has been women with advanced, recurrent and metastatic diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a related cancers. Meets weekly Mondays & Tuesdays, with dementia, a caregiver support group can offer you a separate meeting every First and Third Tuesday an opportunity to find out more about available comevery month. munity resources, learn from others who are going Registration required. Call 457-2273 for more information and through similar experiences, and obtain additional to register. No cost to attend. educational materials. www.womencaresantacruz.org Our evening Santa Cruz caregiver support 28 / March 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

group meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month, and our afternoon Santa Cruz caregiver support group meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. No fee. Open to family members.

For more information about this and other support groups in the area, please call 800.272.3900 Second Wednesdays SANTA CRUZ SONS IN RETIREMENT MONTHLY MEETING Noon, Elks Lodge at 150 Jewell St. This statewide group of retired men invites you to be our guest at our monthly luncheon. You’ll meet kindred spirits, have a fine lunch and learn something new from a top notch guest speaker.

Cost: $18. RSVP at 479-7096 Second and Fourth Wednesdays WELLNESS ON THE CANCER JOURNEY 11-12:30 pm, Old Soquel Plaza Learn how to safely support your body and emotions through the journey of Cancer — from diagnosis to softening the impact of chemo, radiation, and recovering well from surgery. We’ll address nausea, low energy, weakness, digestion, immune support, grief, stress and more. Feel free to bring your partner or care team to this free class. Please come fed; water is available.

Limited Seats. Please register all attendees on Eventbrite — Wellness on the Cancer Journey or call 831-254-3270 to RSVP. Address given upon registration receipt.

ADHD SUPPORT GROUP 6:30-8 p.m., Aptos Fire Station, 6934 Soquel Drive, Aptos The Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay Branch of CHADD hosts monthly support group meetings for anyone who would like to learn more about ADHD or has questions or concerns. Come share with those who understand.

Second Wednesdays’ meeting is for parents of children, teens, and young adults with ADHD. The group for adults with ADHD, spouses, partners of someone with ADHD meets fourth Wednesdays of every month.

Judy Brenis: jbbrenis@comcast.net, or call 831-818-9619.

Last Wednesdays Each Month MAGICIANS’ CLUB 7 p.m., Antonelli Club Room, 2655 Brommer St., Santa Cruz Attention Magic Lovers! Our new Magicians’ Club meets on the last Wed. of every month at 7pm in the club room at the Antonelli Mobile Home Park.

If you do magic or want to get started in this fun hobby, join us.

Questions? Call Jim at 685-3829 SANTA CRUZ COUNTY PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP 7-9 p.m., Katz Cancer Resource Center, 3150 Mission Dr Santa Cruz County Prostate Cancer Support Group has been an active group for over 20 years in the community.

First meeting of 2018 will be February 28th.

LUCKY STEPPERS MODERN SQUARE DANCE 6:30 pm, La Selva Beach Clubhouse, 314 Estrella Ave., La Selva Beach, CA 95076 It’s fun and easy to do! Friendship put to music; family friendly. Class takes place every Thursday Night at our new home in La Selva Beach! (Take Mar Monte off of Hwy 1, turns into Playa Blvd., turn right on Estrella) For more information, contact Sue Harris or Don Benson at (831) 726-7053 or e-mail at caller4u@att.net.

SAN LORENZO COMMUNITY BAND PRACTICE SESSIONS 7:30-9 p.m., San Lorenzo Valley High School Band Room (F-1) The San Lorenzo Valley Community Band meets every Thursday at SLV High School. Dues are $30 a semester.

You must read music.

Call Teresa at 336-8637.

Second and Fourth Thursdays CABRILLO HOST LIONS CLUB MEETINGS 6:30 p.m., Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Road.

Want to make a difference in our community?

Join the Cabrillo Lions Club twice every month and see what you can do to help in Santa Cruz County.

Please RSVP cabrillolions@gmail.com Fridays NAR-ANON SCOTTS VALLEY 6:30 p.m., Camp Recovery Center (Bison Center Room), 3192 Glen Canyon Road, Scotts Valley.

Nar-Anon is a twelve step support group for families and friends of addicts. There are no dues or fees to join.

Just come to a meeting. You will hear others, who are going through similar problems, talk about how they cope and find recovery.

To locate additional times and locations of meetings, please go to our website at www.nar-anon.org.

DROP-IN GRIEF SUPPORT 12-1 pm, Hospice of Santa Cruz County, two locations: 940 Disc Dr., SV • 85 Nielson St., Watsonville Hospice of Santa Cruz County is offering a drop-in grief support group for adults grieving the death of a family member or a friend. This group is a place where you can share stories, learn tools for coping, and receive support from people who care.

For more information, please call (831) 430-3000. Preregistration is required.

First Fridays each month FIRST FRIDAY ART TOUR The 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.)

FRIDAY SHAKESPEARE CLUB 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Peace United Church of Christ at 900 High Street, Santa Cruz Thursdays Curious about Shakespeare? The Friday Shakespeare FRIENDSHIP PUT TO MUSIC! Club members discuss the life, times, and influence of 6:30 p.m., New Hall, La Selva Beach Club House, 3124 Estrella Ave. William Shakespeare.

Classes every Thursday night. For more info call Sue For information, call 831-684-2832, or go to friday Harris or Don Benson (831) 726-7053 or email at shakespeare.org or facebook.com/fridayshakespeare. caller4u@att.net

COMMUNITY CALENDAR County Fairgrounds Join us every 2nd Saturday on the Farm for free family activities. Each month we select a new FRIDAY SHAKESPEARE CLUB theme to highlight historical agriculture with OF SANTA CRUZ games, activities, and demonstrations that relate.

10 am - noon, Peace United Church, 909 High Street This is the oldest women’s club in Santa Cruz. The club We often have guest appearances from farm animals like llamas, draft horses, sheep, goats, meets to study the life, works and times of William chickens, rabbits, and more! You are sure to find Shakespeare. Members share group readings and insights, discuss history, and universal themes found in something fun and entertaining for the whole family. his plays and writings.

Check our website and Facebook page for more details. FREE For more information please call 831-684-2832

ONGOING EVENTS CONT.

Saturdays PILLS ANONYMOUS (PA) 8 a.m., Sutter Hospital, 2025 Soquel Ave The purpose of PA is to provide a safe, secure, and supportive place for people who are addicted to pills who want to get off of them. PA is offered all over the world.

For questions, please contact Gary at (831)801-9578 or Kristin at (831)345-6515 SANTA CRUZ TENNIS CLUB 9 a.m., Soquel High School Tennis Courts The nonprofit Santa Cruz Tennis Club meets every Saturday morning at the Soquel High School courts beginning at 9:00 am. We play doubles and mixed doubles, mostly at an intermediate level, and switch around the players every 45 minutes.

Balls are provided. $2 for first time visitors.

Second Saturdays Each Month 2ND SATURDAY ON THE FARM 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Ag History Project Center at the Santa Cruz

Sundays NAR-ANON SANTA CRUZ 6:30 p.m., Sutter Maternity & Surgery Center (Sutter Room), 2900 Chanticleer Avenue, Santa Cruz Nar-Anon is a twelve step support group for families and friends of addicts. There are no dues or fees to join.

Just come to a meeting. You will hear others, who are going through similar problems, talk about how they cope and find recovery.

To locate additional times and locations of meetings, please go to our website at www.nar-anon.org.

RECOVERING COUPLES ANONYMOUS MEETING 10:30 a.m.–noon, Sutter Maternity, 2900 Chanticleer Ave, SC RCA is a 12 step group for couples. Our primary purpose is to stay committed in loving and intimate relationships and to help other couples achieve freedom from dysfunctional relationships.

All couples are welcome whether married or partnered. Some of us are new in our coupleships and seek to build intimacy together. We have all

found help in Recovering Couples Anonymous.

For more information visit our website: https://santacruzrca.org DATED EVENTS or email us at rcasantacruz@yahoo.com Wednesday March 18 ALAN PEDERSON PERFORMS FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH BIBLE STUDY 6:30-9 p.m., Quaker Meetinghouse 225 Rooney St., Santa 9:45 a.m: Bible Study • 11 a.m.: Worship Cruz 7565 Sunset Way, Aptos Compassionate Friends of Santa Cruz is proud to First Baptist Church of Aptos welcomes you to join their sponsor an award winning singer, recording artist, and bible study and worship every Sunday. speaker who will inspire us with his hope-filled words Call (831) 688-5842 for more info and music.

First Sunday of Every Month Donations greatly appreciated. For more information visit www.

SANTA CRUZ DINNER CLUB EVENT tcfsantacruz.com 5 p.m., various member homes throughout county Love to cook, entertain and socialize? Our Saturday April 11 dinner club events will be held in several homes Sunday April 12 throughout Santa Cruz County where members enjoy gourmet meals, fine wine and conversation. EGGSTRAORDINARY EGG HUNT Joining the club provides a great opportunity to 11 a.m., 12:30 and 2 p.m., Roaring Camp, Felton. cook, to entertain, and to meet locals that share Hop aboard Roaring Camp’s Forest Train for an your interests.

Eggstraordinary Learn more about the SC Dinner Club and the fun we Egg Hunt Saturday have by contacting Rhonda Mills at info@SantaCruz and Sunday, April DinnerClub.com 11 and April 12 in Felton. Upon arrival Third Sunday of Every Month atop Bear Mountain, SCIENCE SUNDAY children can hunt for Starts at 1 p.m., 100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, 95060 eggs, candies and Seymour Marine Discovery Center presents a public special prizes; Easter Bunny will be there, too. Other lecture from a marine scientist the third Sunday of every activities include a petting zoo, games and crafts. month. Topics are presented in an entertaining and Trains depart at 11:00 am, 12:30 and 2:00 pm. Tickets easy-to-understand format, with up-to-date photos, are $33 for adults, $26 for children (2-12 years); video, and discussion. children under 2 ride for free. Reservations recomScience Sunday does not meet in December. For more info mended. visit seymourcenter.ucsc.edu Visit www.roaringcamp.com to book tickets. n

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Business Guide

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Serving the Needs of our Local Seniors

By Zach Friend, County Supervisor, 2nd District

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ecently, the Board of Supervisors received a presentation from Clay Kempf, the Executive Director of the Seniors Council.

The presentation focused on needs of local seniors, the changing landscape at the local and state level, and the work the county and others are doing to make Santa Cruz County an “Age-Friendly Community ,” an official designation from AARP. Senior Population is Growing ccording to the California Department of Finance, in the last seven years, the most significant demographic growth in the state has been those over the age of 60.

In fact, while the number of Californians under the age of 18 has actually declined over that time, the numbers of residents over 60 has grown by nearly two million – more than 29 percent.

Locally, the change is even more significant. In Santa Cruz County, the number of residents under the age of 60 declined by over 4 percent in the last seven years. However, the number over the age of 60 has increased by 48 percent.

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Why do these figures matter? ith California’s senior population is expected to nearly double over the next two decades the county, local cities and nonprofit organizations, will need to ensure we meet the changing needs of our community.

While some of these issues, for example housing, apply across the board, there are other challenges that may require different budget approaches and different planning approaches than has been done before.

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!

TO ADVERTISE IN THE BUSINESS GUIDE SECTION

call our offices 831.688.7549

www.tpgonlinedaily.com 30 / March 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

What are some of the challenges local seniors face? ore than 25,000 Santa Cruz County seniors do not have enough income to pay for their basic needs. Many seniors have fixed incomes but expenses are not fixed.

Rising housing costs, which has increased local homelessness for people age 50 and up, and rising

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medical, transportation and food costs all are having a significant impact.

Additionally, many seniors surveyed locally noted that paying for dental care is a significant challenge. As dental care isn’t covered

by Medicare (and even though it was recently restored through MediCal) many seniors are without dental coverage all together.

On top of dental care, paying for health care costs in general (costs not covered by Medicare) are difficult for seniors on a fixed income. A number of local seniors have noted they’ve had months where they choose between prescription medication and food based on limited incomes and increased costs.

What are some possible solutions? ne major issue, understandably, is housing. For the senior population, ways that allow for the ability to age in place, increased creation of senior-specific housing co-housing options, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), mobilehomes or manufactured homes and more deed-restricted affordable housing are all part of the equation.

Put simply, there is a need for increased supply of housing and specifically housing that would benefit seniors — including affordable housing for those with very limited income.

The county has been working on our affordable housing rules to encourage more deed-restricted affordable housing creation including significant fee reductions for smaller and deed-restricted affordable units (including ADUs). Additionally, the county has continued to update its protections to local mobile/manufactured home parks.

Other solutions include

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improving behavioral and mental health access throughout the county and providing low- and no-cost options for dental care. Expanding access to low and no cost oral health providers has been an identified need throughout the county and local nonprofit providers, doctors and the county have been working on this issue.

This is just a short list of some of the challenges facing our local senior population. Even though great work is being done by local nonprofits and local government, much more will need to be done.

What is an Age Friendly Community? he AARP Network of AgeFriendly States and Communities is an effort to help cities prepare for their own growing population of older adults. The focus is on specific pillars (communities adopt all or some of the pillars) including transportation, housing, social participation, respect and social inclusion, civic participation and employment, health services, outdoor spaces and more.

A planning effort on these issues benefits the entire community as all ages benefit from the adoption of policies and programs that make neighborhoods walkable, feature transportation options, enable access to key services, provide opportunities to participate in community activities, and support housing that’s affordable and adaptable. Welldesigned, age-friendly communities foster economic growth and make for happier, healthier residents of all ages.

Our county, on an item I brought forward to the Board last year, is in the process of becoming designated as an age-friendly community. Local partners include the Seniors Council and the City of Watsonville is also in the process of joining the county to move forward with this designation. n ••• As always, I appreciate hearing your thoughts. Feel free to call me at 4542200 or visit me during my open office hours in Aptos, Corralitos, Seascape and Watsonville.

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 1st 2020 / 31

everything...so close to home.

FOOD & DRINK

Deer Park Wine & Spirits Deluxe Foods Panda Inn Mangiamo Pizza & Wine Bar Red Apple Cafe

PERSONAL SERVICES Agape Dance Academy Aptos Academic Trainers Body in Motion Brian Del Core, DDS CVS Pharmacy Del Mar Cleaners Eye Shapes Opticians Highlights for Hair J-Bella Nails Klub Nico Laser Hair Solutions Royal Paw Spa Santa Cruz Dance Supply

Providing compassionate, customized dental care to the Aptos and Santa Cruz community

Deluxe Foods of Aptos

Supporting the Aptos community for 40 years Mon. thru Sat. 8am to 9pm • Sun. 8am to 8pm Peet’s Coffee Available Mon. thru Fri 6am • Sat & Sun 7am

give us a call

Implants, Invisalign, Family, Cosmetic

(831) 688-3012 or visit

delcoredental.com

783 Rio Del Mar Boulevard, Aptos, CA 95003 (Located inside Deer Park Marketplace)

(831) 688-7442 www.deluxefoodsofaptos.com

Ballet dreams begin here Agape Dance Academy

BUSINESS SERVICES

Anderson & Company HOA Management Employnet Galapagos Travel PDM International Peak Accounting Services SAR Asset Mgmt. Inc. Scurich Insurance Stearns Lending Wavestaff, Inc

Preschool Classical Ballet Visit our new store Santa Cruz Dance Supply! (next door to Agape Studio)

www.agapedance.com • 831-359-0850

BANKS

Bank of America US Bank

deer park c e n t e r

Highway 1 & Rio Del Mar Boulevard, Aptos