Aptos Times: April 1, 2020

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

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April 1, 2020 • Vol 29 No. 7

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SqCWD: No Shutoffs

To comply with Gov. Newsom’s “stay at home” order to slow the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus in the county, the Soquel Creek Water District office will be closed to public access until further notice.

Full Story page 7

Evictions Halted Through May 31 County Freezes Spending Due To Loss of Hotel Tax Revenue

By Jondi Gumz On Tuesday, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted a moratorium on residential and commercial evictions through May 31, citing impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic and “shelter in place”

order, which has closed schools, devastated food and beverage businesses, and shuttered the local tourism-based economy, leaving untold numbers of people unable to work. ... continues on page 4

SBA Disaster Loans Available

Tallula Preston and David Purgason, owners of the startup Fruition Brewing in Watsonville, are hoping to receive a U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loan to keep their shuttered enterprise afloat in the coronavirus era.

Full Story page 5

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No. 7

Volume 29

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24

31

Table of Contents

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Cover Evictions Halted Through May 31: County Freezes Spending Due To Loss of Hotel Tax Revenue, By Jondi Gumz

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Community News SBA Disaster Loans Available: Three Senators Propose Main Street Emergency Grants, By Jondi Gumz Aptos Farmers Market Open Again: Two-week Shutdown Rescinded, By Daniel Saenz Soquel Creek Water District: No Shutoffs Shelter in Place Enforcement May Mean Citations or Arrests Lost Your Job? Hours Cut? What To Do Help is Close By: Drive-Thru Food, Grey Bears & More, By Jondi Gumz County Guidance for Homeless Services Providers: Negotiations for 90 Motel Rooms Advancing • Bay Federal Credit Union, Santa Cruz County Bank Close Branches IRS Filing Deadline Now July 15, By Jondi Gumz Online Census is Live, And Counting On You How to get tested for COVID-19, By Jondi Gumz Managing Screen Time While Kids Are Home From School PVUSD Students: Learning Online Libraries Closed Through March 28; Phone Service Halted, By Diane Cowen Your Victory Garden, By Cynthia Sandberg Which Businesses and Activities Are Deemed Essential?: The Full Shelter in Place Order From The County Health Officer

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13 14 15 16 17 19 20 22

Letters to the Editor 11 What Dominican Hospital Is Doing • Solution for COVID-19?

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

24 25 27

Featured Columnists Thoughts About Treatment of COVID-19, By Ron Conte, Pharm.D. Living Normal in Abnormal Times, By Patrick Kelley We’re #InThisTogether: Soquel Creek Water District Embraces Community Partnerships 29 Learning In a Time of Crisis: A Family-Owned Business Responds, By Ryan Colligan 30 Our Community’s Response to COVID-19, By Zach Friend 31 Rodents Will Never Give Up, By Tony Tomeo

To Our Valued Clientele, Without a doubt these are challenging times. Tara and I wanted to reach out and express how grateful we are to have the privilege to serve this lovely community we call home for nearly 25 years, and for the opportunity to have helped hundreds of families Make Aptos Home.

We ask that you not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any real estate related questions that may arise from the fast changes to our economy and the lending environment. We would be honored to share our insights and assist your family in planning and navigating the coming months.

We are also excited to announce our recent return to Coldwell Banker Realty. Our decision was based on our steadfast commitment to providing the finest real estate representation in the industry, and to align our seasoned skills with a company that offers the highest caliber of tools, technology & resources that will allow us to keep our service to you unequaled.

In the meantime, we send our blessings, and look forward to speaking, and seeing you very soon!

Mike and Tara O’Boy

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COVER STORY publisher

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contributing writers Camisa Composti, Jondi Gumz, Daniel Saenz, Diane Cowen, Cynthia Sandberg, Ron Conte, Patrick Kelley, Ryan Colligan, Zach Friend, Tony Tomeo 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 Camisa Composti advertising sales Don Beaumont, Teri Huckobey 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.

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“Board Meeting” from page 1 The action called on county staff to bring back a proposal to help local small businesses for consideration on April 14.

“We face an extraordinary crisis right now,’” said First District Supervisor John Leopold.

“We’ve never gone through this process of shutting down cities, counties, states and now a good part of the nation. There are tens of millions of school children John Leopold who aren’o going to school. There are tens of millions of businesses that aren’t operating. And that particularly hits Santa Cruz County hard because Santa Cruz County was already experiencing a dire housing crisis.”

Third District Supervisor Ryan Coonerty said, “We cannot add to our homeless population. We do not have the resources to support the people who are currently homeless.”

He added, “If we have a 20% or 30% unemployment rate and we’ve doubled our homeless population, we won’t be able to recover. If we lose a lot of our small businesses, there won’t be businesses to replace them.”

In Santa Cruz County, small businesses with nine or fewer employees comprise 82 percent of employers — “the backbone of our economy,” Leopold said.

“Many of them are closed at the moment — they’re considered nonessential, he said. “The tourism industry, the education industry are impacted by the ‘stay in place’ orders.”

PHONE: (831) 688-7549 FAX: (831) 688-7551 GENERAL E-MAIL: info@cyber-times.com Patrice Edwards: patrice@cyber-times.com Publisher’s Assistant: assistant@cyber-times.com Editor: info@cyber-times.com Calendar Listings: www.tpgonlinedaily.com Graphics Department: graphics@cyber-times.com Billing Inquiries: cathe@cyber-times.com Classified Sales: sales@cyber-times.com Production: production@cyber-times.com CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE AT: www.tpgonlinedaily.com mission statement We at the Times Publishing Group, Inc. are dedicated to providing a voice for the individuals and organizations in our community while highlighting the outstanding accomplishments of our local businesses. We seek to promote healthy family values through our coverage of youth activities, school news, senior events, community groups and entertainment 4 / April 1st 2020 / Aptos Capitola Soquel Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

To spread people out, some of the public comments for the meeting were made from outside the board room. These people were streaming their presentations from the basement of the Santa Cruz County Governmental Center.

Statistics on jobs losses are not available. The state Employment Development Department’s layoff list was last updated March 10, and the jobs report for March isn’t due out til April 17.

However, with many employees out of work, non-essential workers staying home, non-essential businesses closed, and other local businesses seeing a loss of customers, the economic impacts of the outbreak are apparent.

Lost hotel taxes ounty Administrative Officer Carlos Palacio expects “a significant blow to the county budget,” a loss of at least 25 percent of anticipated hotel tax and fee revenue. He announced a freeze on hiring and spending.

Both Leopold and Coonerty voiced hope for help coming from the state and federal government but it’s unclear when that might happen.

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Although tenants, residential and commercial, can’t be evicted under this urgency ordinance, they still have to pay rent.

“This is going to be a negotiation between every tenant and every landlord,” Coonerty said.

Landlord Everett Downs, who is retired and depends on his rental to supplement Social Security, worried, “If you have a deadbeat tenant, why should I be instructed to subsidize that person?”

“It is critical we do something right now,” said Fifth District Supervisor Bruce McPherson, asking how to help small businesses given the county budget shortfall.

Leopold suggested a “bridging loan” until federal aid is available and added, “Figure out what’s the most effective tool, then figure out how to pay for it.”

“County Board Meeting” page 8

COMMUNITY NEWS

SBA Disaster Loans Available

Three Senators Propose Main Street Emergency Grants

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By Jondi Gumz

allula Preston and David Purgason, owners of the startup Fruition Brewing in Watsonville, are hoping to receive a U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loan to keep their shuttered enterprise afloat in the coronavirus era.

Here is their experience: “We filled out the application on March 18. The website was way slow loading each page. It took about a half day to fill out and get everything uploaded. We received a submission confirmation email, followed by a status change update email saying ‘received—in review.’”

Small business owners in Santa Cruz County, across California and throughout the nation — their doors closed, their sales shrunken due to orders to shelter in place — are eager to learn more about what the federal government is offering.

Right now, it’s loans of $5,000 to $2 million at 3.75 percent interest for for-profit businesses or 2.75 percent for private nonprofit organizations to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid because of the COVID-19 outbreak impact. The deadline to apply for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan is Dec. 16.

Grants? hree U.S. senators question whether the disaster loans will save small businesses that have laid off employees and are weighing whether to close.

On March 20, Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), proposed the Main Street Emergency Grant Program to allow small businesses to apply for grants through the Treasury Department to cover fixed costs like payroll and rent, paying the money back only if the business owner fails to restore payroll to 80% of prior levels within 12 months after the COVID-19 crisis ends.

Van Hollen also called for at least $550 million for the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund — a source for the Santa Cruz Community Credit Union — in the COVID-19 stimulus package.

On March 23, Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley) co-introduced The Too Small To Fail Act, which would provide at least $350 million for zero-interest “Economic

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David Purgason and Tallula Preston, founders of Fruition Brewing.

Injury Disaster Loans” for small businesses and nonprofits affected by the coronavirus outbreak.

The bill also would provide grants of up to $15,000 to the small business or nonprofit within three days after the disaster loan application is filed. Also, the bill would empower the Small Business Administration to defer payments on existing federal loans and waive a requirement that limits SBA loans to businesses that do not have access to credit elsewhere.

While Congressional leaders were debating what to do, the Santa Cruz Small Business Development Center at Cabrillo College put on a free webinar March 19 with SBA officials explaining how to apply — online — and what to expect — a response in two to three weeks.

The webinar was fully subscribed at 88 people, some of whom had already closed their doors and others who had laid off employees. At least 92 more got on the wait list and got access to a replay.

Surge Expected eather Luzzi, director of the Sacramento SBA, which oversees 22 counties, said hundreds of employees had been brought on to deal with the “surge” of applications and she expected “a strain on resources.”

She added, “This is unprecedented.”

The SBA loan application process has been used many times after a disaster, whether drought, flood, or fire. But it hasn’t been used for an economic disaster that is ongoing, for which there is no end in sight.

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“SBA Loans” page 7

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Aptos Farmers Market Open Again

Two-week Shutdown Rescinded

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By Daniel Saenz

ood news! We are glad to announce that the Aptos Farmers Market at Cabrillo College will be OPEN on Saturdays from 8 a.m. — 12 p.m.

Farmers markets are now recognized as essential food outlets during this national emergency. Because our farmers markets are held on college campuses, we had to go through a more difficult approval process. We want to thank Cabrillo College for hearing our pleas to allow our farmers market to operate during this crisis.

However — we must all adhere to the following guidelines: • Please do your shopping and go — we will be monitoring for crowds. This is vital for everyone’s safety.

• Maintain social distancing as much as possible — do not ‘hang out’ at the market during the next few weeks.

• Hand sanitizer and hand washing stations will be set up around the market.

The bathrooms are stocked with soap, water, and paper towels.

• Vendors and farmers will be wearing gloves.

• If you or any family member is ill, we ask for the safety of others that you remain home.

We are still working on an alternate

plan for the Monterey Farmers Market.

The Monterey Peninsula College would not agree to allow us to re-open and we are currently making a new plan with the Del Monte Shopping Center.

We are hoping to reopen the Monterey Farmers Market on Friday, March 27. As soon as we are able to finalize the details about where we will set up at the shopping center, we will post an announcement.

First and foremost, we need to keep in mind this is a fluid situation and things may change quickly without much notice. We will do our best to keep everyone informed about changes as soon as we know.

We are using our market Facebook pages, Instagram, and our newsletter email list for new announcements. If you haven’t already done so, you can sign up for the newsletter here.

And, thank you for your patience and support during this difficult time. We are so grateful for our farmers market community. We will do everything we can to keep our markets open for you. n ••• Daniel Saenz is creative director of the Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Soquel Creek Water District: No Shutoffs T o comply with Gov. Newsom’s “stay at home” order to slow the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus in the county, the Soquel Creek Water District office will be closed to public access until further notice.

In a March 23 email to customers, the district wrote, “We take this issue very seriously and want to make sure we are taking every precaution to protect our employees and the community from exposure to the virus. As this is an emerging situation that is rapidly evolving, this plan is subject to change based on new information and guidance.”

To ease the stress of this situation, effective immediately, water service will not be terminated for nonpayment of customer bills due to financial difficulty directly resulting from the COVID-19 outbreak.

Customers who face these hardships should call 831-475-8500 option 3 to make payment arrangements. They will not be charged late fees. These temporary policies will be in effect until further notice.

Customers are still responsible for their water bills, and once the current public health crisis has passed, normal policies will be restored. For customers who can make prompt payments, “it is greatly appreciated and helpful,” the

“SBA Loans” from page 5 The online forms require the employer identification number and ask questions that may require a check of the Secretary of State’s website or a consult with an attorney or accountant. If the business owner misinterprets what the SBA wants, then the application will be rejected, and the process must start over.

For example, one question is the amount of the economic loss, hard to answer since it’s unknown when closed businesses might reopen.

SBDC advisor Sunita Maharaj recommended putting down three months of operating income and with an “e” after the number to denote “estimate.”

Documents ther questions ask about debt, liabilities and salaries. Ancillary forms are required, such as Form 413, the personal

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district wrote. “This is an unprecedented situation that has required our community and staff to adjust our normal practices. We thank you for your patience and understanding in these uncertain times.”

Responding to concerns surrounding COVID-19, the district wrote, “We want to reassure customers this virus has no impact on the district’s drinking water supply.” The district added this information: • “The coronavirus has no impact on the quality or supply of tap water. As always, tap water is both available and safe.

• “While it’s advisable to stock bottled water at home in case of emergencies, we do not expect this health outbreak to disrupt water services.

• “We are committed to providing our customers with safe and reliable water. We use chlorine to eliminate pathogens, which include viruses.

This ensures safe drinking water for all district customers.

• “We deliver water of the highest quality and meets all stringent state and federal drinking water requirements. This information is detailed in the 2018 Water Quality Report, available at www.soquelcreekwater. org/sites/default/files/documents/ Reports/2018wqr.pdf” Though the water district office is closed, employees are working and ready to respond to inquiries, issues, and emergencies by email and phone:

TO PAY YOUR BILL • Online — www.municipalonlinepay ments.com/soquelcreekwaterdistrictca • Phone — The automated payment system is available 24/7at (831) 475-8500, Option 2. Have your water and financial account numbers handy and use Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover or your checking account. To reach a billing representative call (831) 475-8500, Option 3 during business hours 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

• Drop Boxes — Outside the district office, 5180 Soquel Drive, Aptos, one near the front entrance and one in the parking lot behind the office.

Payments are picked up by 8:30 a.m.

Monday through Friday. Include your account number and check made out to Soquel Creek Water District.

•••

TO START/STOP WATER SERVICE: Call Customer Service at (831) 475-8500 option 3 during normal business hours ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION SERVICES: Call Taj Dufour, Engineering Manager, at 831-475-8501x123 or email tajd@soquelcreekwater.org CONSERVATION SERVICES: Water Wise House Calls will be suspended until further notice. For other services or questions call Shelley Flock, Conservation/Customer Service Field Manager at 831-475-8501 x156 or email shelleyf@ soquelcreekwater.org.

AFTER-HOURS EMERGENCY: In the event of a water emergency after normal business hours call (831) 475-8500 and the answering service will dispatch someone to assist you as the situation warrants. n

financial statement of the business owner, and Form 4506-T, authorizing the SBA to order a transcript of the tax return, must be completed. A credit report will be reviewed; there isn’t a minimum credit score.

The SBA will be more lenient with people who have been unable to repay debt but some may be disqualified.

A default on a federal loan means no federal disaster loan.

Loans under $25,000 do not require collateral; larger loans do.

Due to the nature of the coronavirus pandemic, almost all businesses will likely be considered, according to SBDC advisor John Connelly.

Small business owners (which means under 500 employees) were advised to call the local SBDC to get free assistance walking through the form to fill it out correctly.

The employees at those offices are working but callers sometimes get voice mail.

Luzzi said business owners don’t have the option of calling another SBDC elsewhere, they must use their local SBDC office.

Asked about startups, she said they would likely not qualify since the process asks about past income, but that an expansion of en existing business to a new location might qualify.

Cannabis businesses are not eligible because of the federal law categorizing marijuana as a dangerous drug. However, sole proprietors are eligible. And Lyft and Uber drivers and AirBNB rentals with past income may be eligible.

First in, first out The application process is first in, first out, and Luzzi suggested owners get their application in as soon as possible. There is no prioritizing by the number of years in business, for example, or for businesses forced to close by the state.

Asked about nonprofits, Luzzi said they can apply but they are not eligible for the personalized assistance from an SBDC advisor, whose goal is to help for-profit businesses but they can get help from an SBA staffer.

••• Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https:// disasterloan.sba.gov/ela . Applicants may call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information.

Completed applications can be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155. n To reach the Small Business Development Center at Cabrillo College, call 831-479-6136 or go to www.santacruzsbdc.org.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Shelter in Place Enforcement May Mean Citations or Arrests S anta Cruz County Sheriff Jim Hart issued Violation of the county or state order is a misa statement Tuesday on enforcement of the demeanor punishable by fine, imprisonment or county “shelter in place” order by the county both.

Local law enforcement agencies have directed March 16 and by the governor March 19 to slow the officers and deputies to contact individuals who spread of the coronavirus COVID-19.

From the outset, local law enforcement — Sher- are gathering and nonessential businesses still operating to gain compliance. iff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police, Watsonville Voluntary compliance will be sought, Police Capitola Police and Scotts Valley but if that doesn’t happen, officers will Police — focused on education and comenforce those codes, according to Hart. munication in hopes businesses and “We are thankful most people are residents would cooperate with the order. complying, and we understand this “But as we’ve seen the past week, causes frustration, but it’s all for the safety not all have,” Hart said. “We are receiving of our community,” Hart said. “While we dozens of calls daily from concerned don’t want to resort to citations or arrests, residents reporting people gathering in Jim Hart if we don’t see people take this seriously, groups and non-essential businesses still we’ll have to.” n operating as usual, both in violation of the order.”

“County Board Meeting” from page 4 24 cases n March 4, Santa Cruz County Public Health Officer Dr. Gail Newel declared a local health emergency, which was ratified by the Board of Supervisors on March 10. The Board of Supervisors then issued a “shelter in place” order March 16 to slow spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, and on March 19, Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a Dr. Gail Newel statewide shelter-inplace order and gave local governments the authority to suspend evictions.

Newel on Tuesday reported 24 COVID-19 cases and one fatality at Watsonville Community Hospital, a Monterey County man, so his death will not be included in Santa Cruz County statistics.

Globally, more than 18,600 people have died and 108,000 have recovered, in the U.S. 52,000 cases, 684 deaths and 370 recovered, and in California 2,400 cases and 49 deaths.

Steve Trujillo of Watsonville said the coronavirus has a bigger impact on the LGBT community due to their compromised resistance to viruses.

Monica McGuire of Corralitos told the supervisors that one thing people can do, and was done in China to prevent coronavirus deaths, is boosting the immune system with mega-doses of vitamin C. She said details are available online from the Orthomolecular Medicine News Service.

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“A Long Event” imi Hall, who heads the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency, said Tuesday she expects a surge of cases and is working to expand hospital capacity to care for them.

“This is going to be a long event,” she predicted. “It’s not going to be over in two weeks or three weeks.”

She said the county is prioritizing face masks for people at high risk and health care workers with known or potential exposure because there is not enough protective equipment. She encouraged donations for masks.

She said for reasons of capacity, testing is being reserved for health care workers and hospitalized people with symptoms.

Even with that policy, many more tests — 154 — have been negative compared to 24 positive.

Tests require personal protective equipment, so even as testing ramps up, Hall said tests will be allocated carefully to avoid draining the supply of protective gear that she expects will be needed in the future.

60-room motel lissa Benson, assistant county administrative officer, said the county is poised to sign a lease for a 60-room motel as sheltering space for several groups of people: Those who are homeless, have tested positive, have symptoms and need isolation and care; those who are homeless and have been exposed with no symptom but require quarantine; and for vulnerable elders and medically fragile people experiencing homelessness. The goal is to be in operation by end of the week.

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Benson said there are very few surplus state lands in the county that could be used, but use of the county fairgrounds property is under discussion and more sites are needed.

She said the county’s $800,000 homeless allocation goes only so far, “$100 a night, it’s only 250 rooms, not enough to address the need we have.”

The most recent count estimated 2,200 people in the county are homeless.

Property Taxes Due roperty taxes are due 5 p.m. April 10, with the law allowing penalties and interest to be waived on a case-by-case basis.

“I plan to be as lenient as the law will allow,” Auditor-Controller Edith Driscoll said Tuesday.

“The majority of people are paying electronically,” she said, suggesting people paying by check drop the mail I the mail now.

Payments can be left in a yellow drop box outside the county government building at 701 Ocean St., Santa Cruz.

She said she plans to give people paying in cash 5-10 extra days to come in and pay.

Legislation has been proposed to address penalties and interest for late payment but has not passed.

New Procedures uperviors’ meetings are taking place with new procedures — a limit of 13 people in the meeting room with teleconferencing in the community room in the basement of the county Governmental Center.

Supervisor Greg Caput, who chairs the board, sat at the center of the dais, with Coonerty in the farthest chair to the left and Leopold in the farthest chair to the right, to provide the physical distancing recom-

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mended by health officials. McPherson and Supervisor Zach Friend participated remotely.

The public is encouraged to participate online at www.santacruzcounty.us.

Hover your mouse over the “Government” dropdown menu, then the “Board of Supervisors” tab, then click on the March 24 agenda, where live video of the meeting can be viewed. Click on comment bubbles next to each item to submit live comments. First-time users will need to sign up for an account first.

County services remain operational, with most employees working from home.

Santa Cruz Moratorium he City of Santa Cruz City Council was slated to consider March 24 a moratorium on evictions of residential renters and commercial businesses from evictions during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Also, the council was to consider taking action to encourage banks and other financial institutions to halt foreclosures related to COVID-19 economic disaster. n ••• If you have questions about COVID-19, the countywide response line is 831-454-4242.

Residents can also call 211 or text 211211 for public health information.

Also, if you’re interested in watching the meeting, it’s currently available at https://santacruzcountyca.iqm2.com/Citizens/SplitView.aspx?Mode =Video&MeetingID=1796&Format=Agenda (Shortlink: https://tinyurl.com/vl7cd73) Cover Photo: With the social distancing rules in place, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors Meeting Room was limited to 13 people. All other presentations were done via teleconferencing, some from inside the building, some from other buildings.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Lost Your Job? Hours Cut? What To Do W orkers who have lost their jobs or have had their hours reduced due to the impacts of COVID-19 may be eligible for the financial support provided by the benefit programs of the California Employment Development Department.

“The sudden and immense impact on jobs and Californians’ earnings due to the COVID-19 pandemic is unprecedented,” said EDD Director Sharon Hilliard in a March 20 announcement. “We know that our employment benefit programs are a critical lifeline for Californians and we are applying any and all means to ensure we process claims and issue payments as quickly as possible.”

The governor’s March 19 executive order waives the one-week unpaid waiting period so individuals can collect unemployment insurance benefits for the first week they are out of work.

It will take a few weeks to process a claim before the first payment can be issued due to requirements such as checking wage records.

Unprecedented he immense widespread impact created

by COVID-19 is creating a sudden and unprecedented demand for benefits, according to EDD staff, who said the agency has employees working overtime seven days a week, asking recently retired workers to return and hiring new employees.

The demand is creating a “heavy load on our online systems,” according to EDD, which suggested those encountering issues to try later as the systems are available

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around the clock with some limitations in the late evenings as processed claims are forwarded for payment.

Medical Impact • If an individual is unable to work due to being ill or a medical quarantine related to COVID-19, the worker can file a claim for Disability Insurance.

• If an individual is unable to work because he or she has to care for an ill or medically quarantined family member related to COVID-19, the worker can file a claim for Paid Family Leave.

Both types of claims require a medical certification from a treating physician or a written order from a state or local health officer. Both are part of the State Disability Insurance program, funded in part by paycheck deductions noted as “CASDI.” Benefit amounts are based on wages earned over the past 12-18 months and range from $50 - $1,300 a week.

If an individual is not covered by the SDI program or if there is no medical certification or written order, an individual forced out of work or working reduced hours can file for unemployment benefits.

Economic Impact • If an individual is not ill or caring for an ill or medically quarantined family member but has lost a job or has had hours reduced for reasons related to COVID-19, the worker is encouraged to file a claim for unemployment insurance benefits. That could include a parent who needs to stay home to care for dependent children due to a school closure.

Workers who are temporarily unemployed due to COVID-19 and expected to return to work with their employer within a few weeks are not required to actively seek work each week. However, they must remain able and available and ready to work during their unemployment for each week of benefits claimed and meet all other eligibility criteria.

Benefit amounts are based on wages earned over the past 12-18 months and range from $40 - $450 a week.

Self-employed individuals may not be eligible for benefits since unemployment and state disability programs are insurance programs and either a worker or their employer has to have contributed to them in order for a worker to be covered for potential benefits. It’s possible such a worker may have past wages earned or has been misclassified. See COVID-19 Resources webpage.

Tips iling a claim can and should be done online whenever possible. A mobile phone can be used. For online forms, see https://www.edd.ca.gov/about_edd/ coronavirus-2019.htm

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To receive benefits as quickly as possible, workers are encouraged to select a debit card to receive payments instead of checks.

The governor’s executive order temporarily suspended the 60-day notice requirement in the WARN Act for employers to give written layoff notice to employees. The goal was to allow employers to act quickly to prevent the spread of coronavirus. The requirement to file a WARN notice of layoffs for employees, their unions, the Workforce Development Board and the top elected official where the layoff occurred has not changed. n ••• www.edd.ca.gov/about_edd/coronavirus2019/faqs/WARN.htm

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Help is Close By

Drive-Thru Food, Grey Bears & More

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By Jondi Gumz

econd Harvest Food Bank will offer its first “drive-through” community food distribution 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Friday, March 27, at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds in Watsonville.

Next week, Second Harvest plans another “drive-through distribution” at the site of the Goodwill flea market (formerly a drive-in) at 2260 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz.

Residents of Santa Cruz County can get a bag of pantry items and a bag of produce, which is plenty for a family, and Second Harvest asks anyone who gotten food from Second Harvest this week to let others get their share.

Community members are asked to not arrive before 9 a.m to allow staff to set up the distribution. To learn more, call the Second Harvest Community Food Hotline at (831) 662-0991 or check online at www. thefoodbank.org.

The food distribution in Watsonville is for residents of Santa Cruz County. People in need in San Benito county can call (831) 637-0340 and those in Monterey County can call (831) 758-1523.

Aptosia ptos resident Keith Redfield, who’s on the Aptosia Facebook page, came up with the idea to help connect people in need with people who can help during the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak and the “shelter in place” order.

He connected with Daniel Drysdale from Santa Cruz Tenant Power and their MutualAid program.

Members of that group are now “providing the bulk of our delivery capability,” Redfield said.

A form on Aptosia Freshdesk has been created for people to request help and to volunteer help. Once filled in, a click crates a help ticket that triggers a response by the organizers.

This form is sponsored and coordinated by the Santa Cruz Chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America, which is the local chapter of the largest socialist organization in the country.

Those without online access can call Santa Cruz Tenant Power at 831-222-0304 or email scc.mutualaid@gmail.com.

A GoFund Me drive is active at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/mutualaid-fund-for-santa-cruz-covid19-impacts So far, Jean Anderson provided a list of organizations with information and assistance, such as Grey Bears and Meals

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care plan for Medi-Cal in Santa Cruz, Monterey and Merced counties.

The Alliance asks members to call their doctor if they have been in contact with someone known to have COVID-19; or are experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fever and cough. If they can’t reach their doctor, they can call the Alliance’s Nurse Advice Line, 844-971-8907, and a registered nurse will help them decide what to do. The advice line is free to members and open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For Hearing or Speech Assistance call (TTY: Dial 7-1-1).

Member guidance is posted online at https://www.ccah-alliance.org/pdfs/ MEM_COVID_member-talking-points-FENG.pdf What is Needed ptos resident Mark Johannessen, a member of the Santa Cruz County Seniors Commission, said he hears people worried about COVID-19 exposure asking how to protect themselves when the mail carrier delivers, when a package arrives, when a food delivery shows up.

On February 27, the US Food and Drug Administration issued a statement saying, “FDA is not aware of any reports at this time of human illnesses that suggest COVID-19 can be transmitted by food or food packaging.

However, it is always important to follow good hygiene practices (i.e., wash hands and surfaces often, separate raw meat from other foods, cook to the right temperature, and refrigerate foods promptly) when handling or preparing foods.”

The California Department of Public Health posted a similar guidance on its website about on the food supply chain, saying the agency is not aware of any reports at this time of human illnesses that suggest COVID-19 can be transmitted by food or food packaging.

CDPH reiterates the importance of good hygiene and encourages practices and behaviors that can help prevent food handlers from spreading contaminants including viruses to food. See: https:// w w w. c d p h . c a . g o v / P ro g r a m s / C I D / DCDC/CDPH%20Document%20Library/ COVID-19/Coronavirus%20Disease%20 2019%20and%20Food%20Industry.pdf

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Lauren Harvengt dons a mask at Luna Sea Spirits, which has been making hand sanitizer in face of the national shortage. on Wheels and the Sheriff’s Office You Are Not Alone program to call homebound elders. Details: http://scsheriff.com/ Home/CommunityServicesandPrograms/ YouAreNotAlone(YANA).aspx Another post lists Aptos area restaurants offering takeout food, such as Publick House, Pizza One in Seacliff and Tacos Moreno on 41st Avenue I Capitola. There’s also a checklist for pet owners on how to arrange for pet care in case they have to go the hospital.

For people who live outside Aptos, the NextDoor.com neighborhood network accepts free postings to residents to request and offer assistance.

Temple Beth El emple Beth El in Aptos, which serves about 540 families, suspended all services, classes and meetings due to the “shelter in place” order. But people are staying connected thanks to old and new technology.

Rabbi Paula Marcus plans a “lunch and learn” for members via phone or video.

The Rock Shabbat service has moved online.

Instead of an in-person community

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Seder to commemorate Passover, which begins April 8 and concludes April 16, the temple staff plans to offer an innovative online Seder experience. Details will be announced.

“We have Zoom events, phone, and people helping each other,” said Richard Litvak, who retired as rabbi four years ago.

The Santa Cruz Jewish Film Festival is postponed, and given the uncertainty over when normalcy will return, a new date has not been announced.

Alliance for Health entral California Alliance for Health, headquartered in Scotts Valley, has closed the public areas and service counters at the Scotts Valley, Salinas and Merced offices to reduce the risk of exposure to the coronavirus COVID-19.

Members of the health plan who need assistance can call 800-700-3874.

“During this public health crisis, the Alliance remains steadfastly committed to ensuring the more than 320,000 members in its service area continue to have access to needed health care services,” said Stephanie Sonnenshine, chief executive officer of the nonprofit managed health

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“Finding Help” page 26

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR What Dominican Hospital Is Doing ear Friends of Dominican Hospital Foundation, While we are living and working through stressful, unprecedented times, I wanted to take just a few moments to provide an update as to how your community hospital is responding to this crisis. Not a technical or clinical report, but rather a report on the human condition.

I just got off a Dignity Health conference call where this key message was conveyed — Now is the time to come together to meet the needs of our communities.

It instilled so much confidence to hear the thoughtful, intelligent and very serious approach that our health system is employing to address this unprecedented situation.

Our entire hospital team, led by long-time President/CEO, Dr. Nanette Mickiewicz, has been exemplary in every way. With a roll-up-your-sleeves mentality, these caregivers have been working around-the-clock on guaranteeing the safest environment to care for patients, their families and each other.

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I have been reassured and encouraged by their commitment and concern for our care. This is where heroism lies, in the simple acts of goodness by everyday people in extraordinary circumstances. All, without fanfare; these first responders have been spectacular in their steady, steely approach to their Job One — healing and tending to those who turn to us for care.

Daily, our hospital leadership considers the resources available, what we need to insure we can provide the care that will be needed going forward and the necessary coordination with local, state and national partners.

We are planning together, creating new policies, such as the expansion of telehealth, and working closely with all our community agencies. We are working to insure that we continue to serve all in our community, including the most vulnerable.

And it is not only evident in the emergency room or on the patient floors. This can be seen in our thoughtful approach to preventive, proactive safety measures, visiting policy, and even the handling of food in the cafeteria.

If you’d like to know more about all we’re doing to protect our community, please visit our COVID-19 webpage: www.dignity health.org/bayarea/locations/dominican/ about-us/press-center/coronavirus ~~~ So, what can you do to show your support for the people and services of Dominican Hospital?

First, and foremost, practice selfcare as directed – social distancing, hand-washing, etc.

Second, but perhaps most importantly, keep the people that work for the health of the community in your prayers and thoughts. When you do, please consider this prayer authored by Sister Abby Newton, O.P. ~~~ For the patients and families in our care, May they be blessed.

For all of us who carry forth the mission of Dominican, May we be blessed.

For those who experience pain and suffering in our world, our community and our family, Grant peace of mind and heart to all. Amen In gratitude, Beverly Grova, VP of Philanthropy, Dominican Hospital Foundation 831-595-3133

••• Solution for COVID-19? e know that the vaccine for COVID-19 is at least 12 to 18 months away though new drug treatments will likely come sooner. People who are critically sick need medication now to save their lives.

I’d like to ask the FDA to immediately approve using antibodies from recovered #COVID19 (https://twitter.com/hashtag/ COVID19?src=hashtag_click) patients to treat critically ill COVID-19 patients.

Anantibody(Ab) is a large, Y-shaped protein produced by plasma cells that is used by the immune system to neutralize bacteria and viruses. Since recovered #COVID19 person body has already created such antibodies, we should use this for the treatment of people.

It is safe for recovered #COVID19 person to donate plasma (which produces antibodies) twice per week; one #COVID19 person can save lives of 2 infected people per week. Let’s save the life of people today!

Read about it at www.globalhealthnow. org/2020-03/covid-19s-stop-gap-solution-untilvaccines-and-antivirals-are-ready Ritesh Tandon, Congressional Candidate District 17 ritesh@tandonforcongress.com

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12 / April 1st 2020 / Aptos Capitola Soquel Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

COMMUNITY NEWS

County Guidance for Homeless Services Providers

Negotiations for 90 Motel Rooms Advancing

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he County of Santa Cruz has released guidance for homeless service providers as it takes steps to increase sheltering capacity for unhoused county residents impacted by COVID-19.

The guidance includes contact information, care practices and prevention strategies, and has been shared with service providers throughout Santa Cruz County. According to the 2019 Point-inTime Count, 2,167 Santa Cruz County residents are homeless, including 1,700 who do not have access to shelter.

“Like all Santa Cruz County residents, our homeless population is vulnerable to COVID-19 but represents a particular area of concern due to their inability to safely isolate if symptomatic,” Santa Cruz County Assistant Administrative Officer Elissa Benson said.

“Any communitywide mitigation to minimize the impacts from coronavirus must include plans to safely allow unhoused individuals to isolate and recover.”

Gov. Gavin Newsom has allocated $50 million to house homeless individuals impacted by COVID-19, and has identified nearly 1,000 potential sites across California for isolation placements. An additional $100 million is being allocated to local governments for shelter support and emergency housing.

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

People without a place to live have pitched tents on the sidewalk next to the Santa Cruz post office.

Santa Cruz County is in advanced negotiations to secure 90 hotel/motel rooms for isolation purposes, and is exploring additional capacity under leadership of the County Administrative Office and Human Services Department.

The county is also working in close coordination with the state on additional sheltering capacity. n ••• For local information on COVID-19, go to www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus, call 211 or text “COVID19” to 211211. Or call (831) 454-4242 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Bay Federal Credit Union, Santa Cruz County Bank Close Branches

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anks and credit unions are essential businesses under the governor’s March 19 “shelter in place” order to slow the spread of coronavirus COVID-19, but two local institutions found it necessary to close branches for reasons of safety and staffing shortages.

Santa Cruz County Bank s of March 24, Santa Cruz County Bank closed branches in Aptos and Scotts Valley, citing “concern for everyone’s safety and due to limited lobby traffic and staffing.”

ATMs and night depositories remain in service, other locations are open and bank employees are telecommuting whenever possible.

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According to an announcement on Santa Cruz County Bank’s website: “We are noticing fewer and fewer in-person visits and want to applaud everyone for taking precautions, limiting exposure and sheltering in place. Until circumstances change, we encourage you to ‘Bank In Place.’”

“Banks” page 14

COMMUNITY NEWS

IRS Filing Deadline Now July 15

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By Jondi Gumz

RS deadline 2020” has been one of the top searches on Google since the coronavirus outbreak.

With more than 10,000 people infected, scores of deaths and millions in the U.S. out of work and worried due to layoffs or “shelter in place” orders, people have asked themselves: Will I have to file my federal income tax return by April 15?

The initial answer was yes, but payments wouldn’t be due until later. It only took three days of back-and-forth in the press for that to change.

On March 18, six days after Gov. Newsom’s executive order declaring a state of emergency, California’s Franchise Tax Board announced updated special tax relief for all California taxpayers due to the COVID-19 pandemic: A new deadline of July 15 for the filing and payment for all individuals and business entities.

This applies to 2019 tax returns, 2019 tax return payments, 2020 1st and 2nd quarter estimate payments, 2020 LLC taxes and fees, and 2020 non-wage withholding payments.

“Hopefully, this small measure of relief will help allow people to focus on their health and safety during these challenging times,” said State Controller Betty T. Yee, who chairs the Franchise Tax Board.

However, on March 18, the IRS newsroom posted a statement saying the agency had pushed back the payment deadline to July 15 but keeping the April

15 deadline for taxpayers. The IRS suggested taxpayers who are not ready instead file a form requesting an extension (Form 4868).

Members of Congress heard from taxpayers, and Sen. John Thune R-South Dakota, introduced S.3535 to push back the filing deadline to July 15. Sen. Steve Daines (R-Montana), and Angus King (Independent-Maine) co-introduced the measure, which got support from AARP, representing people 50 and older, and American Institute of CPAs. “Let’s not burden taxpayers and tax preparers with the need to file a form while they are confronting coronavirus-related challenges,” said Edward Karl, a CPA and the institute’s vice president of tax policy and advocacy.

On March 20, with 210 fatalities and the number of cases topping 16,000, according to the domo.com tracker, Treasury Secretary Stephen Mnuchin announced on Twitter that Tax Day – filing and paying — is being moved from April 15 to July 15. His tweet said payments can be made by the new date with no interest or penalty charged.

The AICPA has posted guidance for disaster relief at https://www.aicpa.org/ interestareas/tax/resources/compliance/ casualtyloss.html, a page that was last updated in August 2019.

If you have already filed and expect a refund that you haven’t received, you can check the status at https://www.irs.gov/ refunds.

The IRS says most refunds are issued in less than 21 days. n

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Online Census is Live, And Counting On You

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he 2020 online census questionnaire is now live, and ready for Santa Cruz County residents to be counted.

This is the first census in history to rely heavily on online responses, and counting everyone is vitally important for Santa Cruz County.

With April 1, Census Day, approaching, community members are encouraged to participate. The Census is just nine simple questions and takes just a few minutes to complete. Each person counted means thousands of dollars in local funding over the next 10 years.

The Census can be filled out online at www.my2020census.gov, or through

14 / April 1st 2020 / Aptos Capitola Soquel Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Questionnaire Assistance Kiosks located at County facilities. All information is secure and strictly confidential under federal law.

In addition, everyone is encouraged to use the Census ID mailed to them from the U.S. Census Bureau to ensure an accurate count. When completing the Census form, it is important to include information about all adults and children (including babies) living or located at each address. All residents, regardless of age, gender, income, economic or housing status, ethnicity, nationality or immigration status can fill out the Census. Everyone counts!

The Census guides more than $675 billion in annual funding nationwide and

supports critical local services such as job training, affordable housing, emergency preparedness, school funding, roads, hospitals and much more. In addition, the Census will also determine the number of seats each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives and local political representation at all levels of government. n A link to the list of Questionnaire Assistance Kiosk locations at County facilities is available at www.santacruzcountycounts. us. Call ahead to ensure availability. Additional assistance is available toll-free at (844) 330-2020. For information, visit www.santacruzcountycounts.us or www.facebook.com/ SantaCruzCountyCounts.

“Banks” from page 12 Remote services include: Online banking and bill payment, mobile banking, mobile deposit, courier service, remote deposit capture and telephone banking. For help, call 831-457-5000.

Bay Federal Credit Union s of March 18, Bay Federal Credit Union closed its Aptos and Scotts Valley branches and ended Saturday branch hours for all locations until the shelter order is removed.

“The decision to temporarily close both locations was made to help with social distancing and manage employee absenteeism due to school closures,” according to an announcement from the credit union.

Remaining staff from the Aptos and Scotts Valley locations were moved to other branch locations. ATMs in Aptos and Scotts Valley remain open.

Members can use online banking and the mobile app to open accounts, apply for loans, deposit checks, pay bills, transfer money, and download electronic statements. Bay Federal’s call center is open on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“The health and safety of our members and employees is our number one priority,” said Carrie Birkhofer, President and CEO of Bay Federal. “We will reopen these locations and increase hours of service as soon as our officials deem it safe to do so.”

Bay Federal is offering financial assistance programs for members burdened by the COVID-19 crisis such as skipping or deferring a loan payment and applying for a special emergency loan. Details: www.bayfed.com n ••• For a list of resources for local businesses compiled by county staff, see: https://www. sccvitality.org/Coronavirus(COVID-19)GuidanceforBusinesses.aspx

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COMMUNITY NEWS

How to get tested for COVID-19

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by Jondi Gumz

s of March 25, Santa Cruz County reports 25 confirmed COVID-19 cases and no deaths, California 2,535 cases and 53 deaths, the U.S. 64,500 cases and 908 deaths, and worldwide, 466,000 cases, 21,000 deaths — 7,500 in Italy, 3,600 in Spain and 3,100 in China — and 113,000 recoveries.

Santa Cruz County is one of seven counties in the San Francisco Bay Area under a March 16 “shelter in place” order to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

Celebrities have tested positive: Former Golden State Warrior Kevin Durant now with Brooklyn Nets, Rudy Gobert of the Utah Jazz , Sean Payton, head coach of the New Orleans Saints, actors Idris Elba and Daniel Dae Kim, singer Charlotte Lawrence, musician Andrew Watt, Miami mayor Francis Suarez, Democratic Congressman Ben McAdams of Utah, Republican Congressman Mario DiazBalart of Florida, Prince Albert of Monaco, and Sophie Trudeau, wife of the Canadian prime minister.

Which leads to the question many people have: How do you get tested?

Here is the answer from Santa Cruz County spokesman Jason Hoppin: “There are two paths for testing: public health system and private payer system.

“We are only testing symptomatic sick patients under care of a physician. You are at very low risk of transmitting the virus if you are asymptomatic.

“The issue with tests right now isn’t the number of tests available but lab capacity.

For public health tests, it takes about 48 hours for the results to come back. Those tests are conducted at public labs out of Santa Cruz County. Santa Clara county has one lab and that is the one we usually use, although there are other labs available.

“Private labs take 5 to 6 days to turn the test around. Turnaround time will

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Community Foundation Santa Cruz County has created a fund to raise money for public health and to support vulnerable residents. Donations can be made at https:// www.cfscc.org/donate/COVID. A group of community volunteers has established a tech support clearinghouse for students engaged in remote learning or residents working from home during the shelter-in-place order. Volunteers are welcome. Visit https://www.cruz.one n ••• For Updates https://www.cfscc.org/updates/3-ways-tohelp-santa-cruz-countys-most-vulnerable State numbers: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/ Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Immunization/ ncov2019.aspx Worldwide numbers: https://www. arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6 or https://www.domo.com/coronavirus-tracking Resources for employers, schools community and faith-based organizations and travel recommendations: https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

Masked staff at the Sutter Health clinic (also known as Palo Alto Medical Foundation) in Scotts Valley screen patients Friday for COVID-19 with a special tent set up in the parking lot. improve as we go forward, and many top income. We’re a service economy, and this medical schools are volunteering their labs will fall on service workers the hardest.”

Resources to do tests too. Regardless of your path, the federal government has passed legislation ounty of Santa Cruz call center making tests free for everyone. answering questions about the “Even using the strict criteria of meeting COVID-19 outbreak: (831) 454- 4242 the symptom pattern and being under care between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., Monday-Friday. of a doctor, five out of every six tests in Santa To read the shelter in place order, track Cruz County come back negative. the number of local cases, and view see “At this point, testing helps document answers to frequently asked questions in the spread of the disease but does nothing English and Spanish and guidance on how to prevent the spread. to protect yourself and your family, see “I think a lot of people are misun- www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus derstanding this point. It’s out in the community, and quarantining contacts of confirmed patients no longer helps. It’s assumed to be too widespread already, and we have moved past containment and are focusing on mitigation. Without immunity or a vaccine, the only way we have to interrupt diseases is by social means.

“That is why you’ve seen the extraordinary measures this week by public health officers throughout the Bay Area to implement a shelter in place order. We haven’t seen anything like this in the postWWII era.

“This will have long-lasting impacts on the community, and despite being only NOW OFFERING CURBSIDE DELIVERY! at the very earliest stages we are already hearing about layoffs, and people will lose

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Managing Screen Time While Kids Are Home From School

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ith many kids out of school and spending more time at home, finding ways to fill the time is

essential.

As most parents know, it can be tempting to allow children to pass some of the extra hours using digital devices, however, research shows that managing screen time is vital for developing minds.

When used in moderation and under parental supervision, devices of course can be incredibly powerful learning and communication tools, and in many cases, they will be vital to kids’ continued academic progress while campuses are closed.

However, people aren’t meant to spend all their time in front of screens, especially kids. Excessive screen time can lead to: • Impaired mental and physical well-being.

• A loss of quality sleep.

• Impeded impulse control -- for kids, impulse control is already hard enough!

• Poor communication skills (nonverbal cues are learned in face-to-face interaction, not through device-to-device communication).

• Addictive behaviors, and even violent tendencies.

• Vision problems.

• An increased risk of obesity.

With all that said, here are a few ways to manage your children’s screen time: • Create a routine. Post a schedule each morning in a place that’s easy for kids to see. Include such items as doing chores, reading books, practicing an instrument, creating artwork, playing

in the backyard and any other activity that will help ensure chunks of the day are spent away from screens doing something productive.

• Talk. Be extra proactive about starting conversations with your kids. Check in with them about progress on assigned homework. Ask them how they are feeling. Children are used to being surrounded by fellow students and teachers all day, so be sure to give them opportunities to practice social skills.

• Use tech tools. Every parent knows the struggle of limiting device use. But new tech tools can help you make rules that stick. One such tool is a parental control app called OurPact. To start, parents sign up for a free account. After pairing their child’s devices, they’re able to manage them remotely through at-a-touch blocking or automated schedules. Customizable, flexible and easy to use, it’s great for setting bedtime schedules, ensuring devices are being used safely and properly, and enjoying ping-free family meals.

It works on Wi-Fi and all cellular connections, meaning you can manage access all the time. To learn more or download, visit OurPact.com.

You may be spending more time together as a family these days, which makes this a key opportunity to be a good role model when it comes to proper device use. For example, if you don’t want your child to use their device in the middle of dinner, hold yourself to the same rule. n StatePoint Media.

Photo Credit Statepoint Media

With kids out of school during “shelter in place,” it can be tempting to allow them more screen time but too much screen time can led to unwanted behaviors.

COMMUNITY NEWS

PVUSD Students: Learning Online F ollowing the Santa Cruz County “shelter in place” order, schools in the Pajaro Valley Unified School District are expected to remain closed through April 10.

Learning via computer was slated to begin March 23, with the district loaning Chromebooks and hotspots to students accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Students can use a personal or family computer if they wish.

Parents can take advantage of Charter’s offer of free Spectrum broadband and Wi-Fi access for 60 days to households with K-12 and/or college students who do not already have a Spectrum broadband subscription. The installation fees will be waived for new student households. To enroll with Spectrum, parents may call 1-844-488-8395.

Comcast’s Internet Essentials Program, which typically costs $10 a month for families who meet income guidelines, is providing 2 months free for new accounts: To sign up, go to https:// www.internetessentials.com/ As of Monday, March 23, students in transitional kindergarten through second grade will be given packets of instructional materials compiled by their teacher.

Packets will be available on Mondays from 8-10 a.m. and 3:30-5:30 p.m. at the school site. Students are to submit their completed packets each time they pick up a new packet.

During spring break from March 30-April 3, there will be no packets and no food distribution. A new packet will be available at the school sites on Monday, April 6.

Here is the March 20 letter from Superintendent Michelle Rodriguez: Dear PVUSD Parents and Community, e recognize that this continues to be a challenging and unprecedented time with constantly changing conditions. The health and safety of our students, families, and community remain at the center of all decision making.

Yesterday, Governor Gavin Newsom issued a statewide Shelter in Place order to combat the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). This order does not change directions previously issued to Santa Cruz County residents, but rather only directs other California counties to adhere to the same restrictions. The Governor has not

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specified an end date to the order, but anticipates school closures to continue into the summer months.

It is our responsibility as a school community to be prepared for the possibility of a long closure.

TK-Grade 2 tarting Monday, March 23, students in TK-2nd grade will be issued packets of instructional materials compiled by their teacher for student learning. Packets will be available for distribution each week of school closure on Mondays from 8:00-10:00am and 3:30-5:30pm at your student’s school site.

Students will submit their completed packets each time they pick up a new packet. Alternate ways to receive the instructional packets are being explored for upcoming weeks. Please note that instructional packets will not be provided during the week of spring break from March 30-April 3, 2020.

After break, remember to get your new instructional packet on Monday, April 6, 2020.

Starting the week of March 23, 2nd students will begin to receive their Chromebooks so that they too can engage in digital learning. Additional information will be provided by the individual school sites.

Grades 3-12 f you have children in grades 3rd -12th, they should have already picked up Chromebook from their school site. For families that were unable to pick up a Chromebook this past Thursday or Friday at their school sites, an additional opportunity to pick up a Chromebook will be on Monday March 23rd through Friday March 27th between 9:00AM until 12:00PM at either: Aptos Junior High School located at 1001 Huntington Drive, Aptos, or Cesar Chavez Middle School located at 440 Arthur Rd. Watsonville.

During the school closures, teachers may be utilizing Google Classroom to create assignments and provide educational resources for your students. Please go to classroom.google.com to access your child’s classroom. Log in with your student’sPVUSD username and password to see their classes; your student should be able to help with this.

If you need more support, watch this video: tinyurl.com/studentgc.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Libraries Closed Through March 28; Phone Service Halted

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Using cutting-edge airborne mapping technology, sciencebased data was collected to identify seawater intrusion along the Santa Cruz mid-county coastline.

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By Diane Cowen

ll branches of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries will remain closed during the shelter in place order. We ask that people do not return library materials until we reopen. No overdue fees will be charged.

In our last media update, we listed ways we planned to continue to serve the community. Unfortunately, we are no longer able to provide information services by phone.

We will continue to provide reference and information services via text and email only. To access these services, text 831.264.0647 or email elibrary@santacruzpl.org .

SCPL’s Virtual Library provides access to thousands of eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines, News, Movies, and Music 24/7 from home with your library card and PIN/password. Research collections and other eLearning options are also available 24/7 from home with your library card and PIN/password from our Research page. Educators and homeschool leaders without access to online teaching platforms are invited to try Brainfuse Help Now’s MEET. We are diligently working on new ways to deliver services and programs during this challenge. Follow us on social media @SantaCruzPL and check our website for updates, tips, and fun things you can do from home.

••• Here is the March 17 announcement from Library Director Susan Nemitz: “Sadly, the Santa Cruz Public Libraries are temporarily suspending the use of our facilities for at least the next two weeks, effective Saturday, March 14, at 5 p.m.

With the threat that COVID-19 presents to our community, we strongly believe that this is the responsible action.

Many library services will still be available through our online website, santacruzpl.org. We are no longer able to offer phone services during the shelterin-place order. We are also temporarily suspending the services provided by our Bookmobile.

The public schools throughout our county have also made the decision to temporarily close following the recommendations of the County Public Health Services Agency.

Like the schools, our facilities face social distancing challenges and the library supports patrons of all ages and levels of vulnerabilities.

SCPL hopes to decrease anxiety for all of us by creating a period of zero overdue fines for the remainder of March and all of April.

“County Libraries” page 21

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

20 / April 1st 2020 / Aptos Capitola Soquel Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Your Victory Garden

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By Cynthia Sandberg

uring the World Wars, we Americans were urged by our government to grow what were called “Victory Gardens.” These were at-home food production gardens for the purpose of relieving the strapped economy from having to feed every last person.

Well, these are worrisome times, and perhaps you should consider growing a Victory Garden, or taking it a bit more seriously this year. Who knows what is in store for us?

Our mandate at Love Apple is to help you do that.

Not only are we offering dozens of varieties of tomatoes, peppers and eggplants, but we have added more vegetable plants too. We will open, as planned, this weekend, because of the food cultivation exemption. Here is what we are doing to avoid the crush of people usually seen in the first couple of weekends: 1) You must pre-order through our website at www.growbetterveggies. com so we can plan on having the plants you want.

2) You must then make an appointment on our scheduling page to come to our nursery.

This limits the folks coming in to six per hour, staggered throughout.

Don’t fret if all of the first weeks’ slots are taken. Your plants are here, we are caring for them and you’ll get what you ordered. Besides, it’s too cold and rainy yet to plant them.

3) When you come pick up at your appointed time, we will only allow ONE PERSON from your party to enter. No couples, no kids, no entourage, not even dogs. You will be in a line with stations every 8 feet apart to avoid social contact. Please DO NOT COME early or if you do not have an appointment.

4) If you are in a high-risk group, or otherwise feeling vulnerable, we can walk your order out to your car. We don’t even need to interact; just pop the trunk, we’ll pop in the box, and you’ll be good to grow. Visit our scheduling page to see how that is handled.

5) We will ask you for your transaction number (listed on your Paypal emailed receipt). If you are picking

up for someone else, you’ll need their number too and the email address they used to place their order. Once we are sure you have an appointment, we will point you to a station where you will wait for your personal staffer to pull your order(s) for you. You WILL have a chance to order more things once you arrive. We will have an order sheet here waiting for you.

6) This year, we will not be able to answer a lot of questions in person, but we are happy to do so via email.

Email us at loveapplefarms@gmail. com to pre-ask your questions, and we’ll do our best to answer everything you are concerned about in your garden. We are also happy to give you suggestions, but best to do so via email this year.

7) Please do not email us requesting an earlier appointment. I know we said you could pick up your order on March 28, but these are extraordinary times, and we MUST do our part to keep everyone safe.

Do not be concerned we will have sold out of the plants you want. This is not the case. We are keeping close track of our quantities based on daily pre-order totals and your plants will be here when you pick them up, even if it’s three weeks from now.

We are going to have paths and ropes and stations in place to distance you from each other and from us. We will be disinfecting your pick-up tables between each guest. We urge you to wear a mask, gloves, and wipe the boxes, bags, and plastics down that you’ll be receiving from us. n ••• Cynthia Sandberg is the owner of Love Apple Farms, 5311 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley.

“County Libraries” from page 19 This means that we will charge absolutely no overdue fines for any materials returned late during the period of March 13 thru April 30. Lost and damage fees still apply.

During this temporary closure, we will continue to provide reference and information services text and email. To access these services, text 831.264.0647 or email elibrary@santacruzpl.org.

SCPL’s Virtual Library provides access to thousands of eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines, News, Movies, and Music 24/7 from home with your library card and PIN/ password.

Research collections and other eLearning options are also available 24/7 from home with your library card and PIN/password from our Research page.

Educators and homeschool leaders without access to online teaching platforms are invited to try Brainfuse Help Now’s MEET. Over the next two weeks, we will continue to develop programs that you will be able to access from home. We invite your input during this challenging time.” n ••• Diane Cowen is communications manager for Santa Cruz Public Libraries, which has branches in Aptos, Boulder Creek, Capitola, Felton, La Selva Beach, Live Oak, Scotts Valley, and Santa Cruz.

“Learning Online” from page 17 Below you will find step-by-step instructions: 1) Go to https://www.pvusd.net/ 2) Click on the “students” tab 3) Click on “student links” https:// www.pvusd.net/studentlinks 4) Click on “Google Classroom” with the green chalkboard-looking icon Logging in to your account & Google classroom: 1) Enter your log-in email: [student ID #]@pvusd.net.

BE SURE TO INCLUDE @pvusd.net Also make sure that anyone else other than the student’s email aren’t already filled in — this will bring you to their google account, not yours 2) Enter your password: Enter personalized password or, if one has not been established, enter the first two letters of your birth month (first letter capitalized), your birth date, your birth year Example: a student who was born on May 25th, 2007 would enter: Ma252007 Once you are in: 1) Check the classroom “stream” tab for updates and general posts from your teacher.

2) Check the “classwork” tab to find current assignments.

3) Parents AND students check google classroom daily to ensure you are not missing any important information and assignments from your teacher.

Parent Tech Help ll students should be accustomed to using their Chromebook as they do so daily in their classrooms. We do however recognize that this is a new experience for parents. For additional support, we have created a PVUSD Community phone support line 1-831-786-2493 which goes live Monday, March 23 at 8:00 am. Please be patient as we assess the appropriate staffing level for this phone line.

Keeping You Informed nformation and communication is updated frequently on PVUSD’s website under the COVID-19Info tab.

This tab is also located on each school’s website. Families can find additional home resources under the Parent tab.

During school closure, office phones are not staffed. Should you have questions, other than those related to technology, which has a dedicated number listed above, or not answered on the website, to ensure timely response you may contact either the office of Secondary Services as 786-2395 or Elementary Services at 786-2133.

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We are working diligently to ensure our website is updated regularly with the most accurate information from public health authorities. For additional information, you may also visit the Centers for Disease Control 2019 novel coronavirus website at: https://www. cdc.gov/COVID19.

For ideas on how to talk with your children about COVID-19 please visit: http://sccoe.link/talking_about_ COVID19.

For local information, residents may visit www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus, call 211 or text “coronavirus” to 211211.

The COVID-19 pandemic is a new experience for all of us, both personally and professionally. We are poised to make a positive impact on our students, families and community when we need to be connected most.

Please take time to read the accompanying letter from the Santa Cruz County Office of Education that is signed by all Superintendents in our County.

I appreciate and value your role as parents and caregivers for your students during this challenging time.

We must continue to work together to support each other and our community each day and in the weeks ahead. n

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

COMMUNITY NEWS

Which Businesses and Activities Are Deemed Essential?

The Full Shelter in Place Order From The County Health Officer

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BIS CLUB | SA NA NT N A CA

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doors, with pets, jogging, cycling, etc., as long as you maintain a minimum distance of six feet from others doing the same. This also applies if you need to do some shopping.

The main issue is to limit gatherings, maintain cleanliness (especially washing hands and keeping them off your face), and protect those with the highest risks (elderly, immunocompromised, etc.).

One thing of note: while there is nothing in the order to penalize those who are homeless, it does urge them to find shelter, along with asking local government agencies to offer assistance in doing so.

Lastly, non-essential travel is

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MI ER

arlier this month, as most of us know, Santa Cruz County joined with multiple Central Coast counties in enacting a “Shelter in Place” directive in an attempt to drastically reduce the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus.

This “self-quarantine” has since expanded to the entire state of California and multiple states and countries throughout the world as the impact of the disease grows.

However, there are still things we can do while under the shelter order. Many “essential services,” such as grocery markets, news and media organizations, emergency services and more, are still operating, if at reduced, and more careful, capacity.

Also, the order does not require people to stay indoors while sheltering. People are encouraged to continue taking walks out-

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severely discouraged, while businesses and government agencies that do not fall under the “essential services” clause are asked to suspend operation at a physical location.

Any operations that can be run remotely (i.e. people can work from their home) are encouraged to do so.

Here is the full, unabridged order put forth on March 16, 2020 (Headlines throughout added by Times Publishing Group, Inc. to highlight sections):

Please read this Order carefully. Violation of or failure to comply with this Order is a misdemeanor punishable by fine, imprisonment, or both. (California Health and Safety Code § 120295, et seq.)

UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF CALIFORNIA HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE SECTIONS 101040, 101085, AND 120175, THE HEALTH OFFICER OF THE COUNTY OF SANTA CRUZ (“HEALTH OFFICER”) ORDERS: 1) The intent of this Order is to ensure that the maximum number of people self-isolate in their places of residence to the maximum extent feasible, while enabling essential services to continue, to slow the spread of COVID-19 to the maximum extent possible. When people need to leave their places of residence, whether to obtain or perform vital services, or to otherwise facilitate authorized activities necessary for continuity of social and commercial life, they should at all times reasonably possible comply with Social Distancing Requirements as defined in Section 10 below. All provisions of this Order should be interpreted to effectuate this intent. Failure to comply with any of the provisions of this Order constitutes an imminent threat to public health.

Six Feet Away 2) All individuals currently living within Santa Cruz County (the “County”) are ordered to shelter at their place of residence. To the extent individuals are using shared or outdoor spaces, they must at all times as reasonably possible maintain social distancing of at least six feet from any other person when they

are outside their residence. All persons may leave their residences only for Essential Activities, Essential Governmental Functions, or to operate Essential Businesses, all as defined in Section 10.

Individuals experiencing homelessness are exempt from this Section, but are strongly urged to obtain shelter, and governmental and other entities are strongly urged to make such shelter available as soon as possible and to the maximum extent practicable (and to utilize Social Distancing Requirements in their operation).

3) All businesses with a facility in the County, except Essential Businesses as defined below in Section 10, are hereby required to cease all activities at facilities located within the County except Minimum Basic Operations, as defined in Section 10. For clarity, businesses may also continue operations consisting exclusively of employees or contractors performing activities at their own residences (i.e., working from home). All Essential Businesses are strongly encouraged to remain open.

To the greatest extent feasible, Essential Businesses shall comply with Social Distancing Requirements as defined in Section 10 below, including, but not limited to, when any customers are standing in line.

4) All public and private gatherings of any number of people occurring outside a household or living unit are prohibited, except for the limited purposes as expressly permitted in Section 10. Nothing in this Order prohibits the gathering of members of a household or living unit.

5) All travel, including, but not limited to, travel on foot, bicycle, scooter, motorcycle, automobile, or public transit, except Essential Travel and Essential Activities as defined below in Section 10, is prohibited. People must use public transit only for purposes of performing Essential Activities or to travel to and from work to operate Essential Businesses or maintain Essential Governmental Functions. People riding on public transit must comply with Social Distancing Requirements as defined in Section 10 below, to the greatest extent feasible. This Order allows travel into or out of the County to perform Essential

COMMUNITY NEWS Activities, operate Essential Businesses, or maintain Essential Governmental Functions.

25 Cases in Santa Cruz County as of March 25 6) This Order is issued based on evidence of increasing occurrence of COVID-19 within the County and throughout the Bay Area, scientific evidence and best practices regarding the most effective approaches to slow the transmission of communicable diseases generally and COVID-19 specifically, and evidence that the age, condition, and health of a significant portion of the population of the County places it at risk for serious health complications, including death, from COVID-19. Due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus in the general public, which is now a pandemic according to the World Health Organization, there is a public health emergency throughout the County.

Making the problem worse, some individuals who contract the COVID-19 virus have no symptoms or have mild symptoms, which means they may not be aware they carry the virus. Because even people without symptoms can transmit the disease, and because evidence shows the disease is easily spread, gatherings can result in preventable transmission of the virus. The scientific evidence shows that at this stage of the emergency, it is essential to slow virus transmission as much as possible to protect the most vulnerable and to prevent the health care system from being overwhelmed. One proven way to slow the transmission is to limit interactions among people to the greatest extent practicable. By reducing the spread of the COVID-19 virus, this Order helps preserve critical and limited healthcare capacity in the County.

7) This Order is issued in light of the existence of 11 cases of COVID-19 in the County, as well at least 258 cases of confirmed cases and at least three deaths in adjacent Bay Area counties as of 5:00 p.m. on March 15, 2020, including a significant and increasing number of suspected cases of community transmission and likely further significant increases in transmission. Widespread testing for COVID-19 is not yet available but is expected to increase in the coming days. This Order is necessary to slow the rate of spread and the Health Officer will re-evaluate it as further data becomes available.

8) This Order also is issued in accordance with, and incorporates by reference, the March 4, 2020 Proclamation of a State of Emergency issued by Governor Gavin Newsom, the March 4, 2020 Declaration of Local Health Emergency Regarding

Novel Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) issued by the Health Officer, the March 10, 2020 Resolution of the Board of Supervisors of the County of Santa Cruz Ratifying the Declaration of a Local Health Emergency, and the March 10, 2020 Resolution of the Board of Supervisors of the County of Santa Cruz Proclaiming a Local Emergency.

9) This Order comes after the release of substantial guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the California Department of Public Health, the County Health Officer and other public health officials throughout the United States and around the world, including a variety of prior orders to combat the spread and harms of COVID-19. The Health Officer will continue to assess the quickly evolving situation and may modify or extend this Order, or issue additional Orders, related to COVID-19.

High-Risk Individuals 10) Definitions and Exemptions.

A) For purposes of this Order, individuals may leave their residence only to perform any of the following “Essential Activities.” But people at high risk of severe illness from COVID-19 and people who are sick are urged to stay in their residence to the extent possible except as necessary to seek medical care. i) To engage in activities or perform tasks essential to their health and safety, or to the health and safety of their family or household members (including, but not limited to, pets), such as, by way of example only and without limitation, obtaining medical supplies or medication, visiting a health care professional, or obtaining supplies they need to work from home. ii) To obtain necessary services or supplies for themselves and their family or household members, or to deliver those services or supplies to others, such as, by way of example only and without limitation, canned food, dry goods, fresh fruits and vegetables, pet supply, fresh meats, fish, and poultry, and any other household consumer products, and products necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences.

Walking is OK iii) To engage in outdoor activity, provided the individuals comply with Social Distancing Requirements as defined in this Section, such as, by way of example and without limitation, walking, hiking, or running. iv) To perform work providing essential products and services at an Essential Business or to otherwise carry out

activities specifically permitted in this Order, including Minimum Basic Operations. v) To care for a family member or pet in another household.

B) For purposes of this Order, individuals may leave their residence to work for or obtain services at any “Healthcare Operations” including hospitals, clinics, dentists, pharmacies, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, other healthcare facilities, healthcare suppliers, home healthcare services providers, mental health providers, or any related and/or ancillary healthcare services. “Healthcare Operations” also includes veterinary care and all healthcare services provided to animals. This exemption shall be construed broadly to avoid any impacts to the delivery of healthcare, broadly defined. “Healthcare Operations” does not include fitness and exercise gyms and similar facilities.

Housing Construction is OK C) For purposes of this Order, individuals may leave their residence to provide any services or perform any work necessary to the operations and maintenance of “Essential Infrastructure,” including, but not limited to, public works construction, construction of housing (in particular affordable housing or housing for individuals experiencing homelessness), airport operations, water, sewer, gas, electrical, oil refining, roads and highways, public transportation, solid waste collection and removal, internet, and telecommunications systems (including the provision of essential global, national, and local infrastructure for computing services, business infrastructure, communications, and web-based services), provided that they carry out those services or that work in compliance with Social Distancing Requirements as defined this Section, to the extent possible.

D) For purposes of this Order, all first responders, emergency management personnel, emergency dispatchers, court personnel, and law enforcement personnel, and others who need to perform essential services are categorically exempt from this Order. Further, nothing in this Order shall prohibit any individual from performing or accessing “Essential Governmental Functions,” as determined by the governmental entity performing those functions. Each governmental entity shall identify and designate appropriate employees or contractors to continue providing and carrying out any Essential Governmental Functions. All Essential Governmental

Functions shall be performed in compliance with Social Distancing Requirements as defined in this Section, to the extent possible.

E) For the purposes of this Order, covered businesses include any for-profit, non-profit, or educational entities, regardless of the nature of the service, the function they perform, or its corporate or entity structure.

Farmers’ Markets Considered Essential F) For the purposes of this Order, “Essential Businesses” means: i) Healthcare Operations and Essential Infrastructure; ii) Grocery stores, certified farmers’ markets, farm and produce stands, supermarkets, food banks, convenience stores, and other establishments engaged in the retail sale of canned food, dry goods, fresh fruits and vegetables, pet supply, fresh meats, fish, and poultry, and any other household consumer products (such as cleaning and personal care products). This includes stores that sell groceries and also sell other non-grocery products, and products necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences; iii) Food cultivation, including farming, livestock, and fishing; iv) Businesses that provide food, shelter, and social services, and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged or otherwise needy individuals; v) Newspapers, television, radio, and other media services; vi) Gas stations and auto-supply, autorepair, and related facilities; Banks are Essential vii) Banks and related financial institutions; viii) Hardware stores; ix) Plumbers, electricians, exterminators, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences, Essential Activities, and Essential Businesses; x) Businesses providing mailing and shipping services, including post office boxes; xi) Educational institutions—including public and private K-12 schools, colleges, and universities—for purposes of facilitating remote learning or performing essential functions, provided that social distancing of six-feet per person is maintained to the greatest extent possible; xii) Laundromats, drycleaners, and laundry service providers; “Shelter in Place” page 24

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

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Thoughts About Treatment of COVID-19

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ithin a week or so from the identification of COVID-19, China conducted a study using a combination of antiviral drugs, lopinavir and ritonavir. Although patients who were assigned to take the combination drugs showed some positive response, it was not significantly different from patients who had not received the combination therapy.

This does not necessarily mean treatment failure, but rather timing of the doses during the two phases of the infection may need to be modified. Moreover, can it be that

“Shelter in Place” from page 23 Takeout Food is OK xiii) Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food, but only for delivery or carry out.

Schools and other entities that typically provide free food services to students or members of the public may continue to do so under this Order on the condition that the food is provided to students or members of the public on a pick-up and takeaway basis only. Schools and other entities that provide food services under this exemption shall not permit the food to be eaten at the site where it is provided, or at any other gathering site; xiv) Businesses that supply products needed for people to work from home; xv) Businesses that supply other essential businesses with the support or supplies necessary to operate; xvi) Businesses that ship or deliver groceries, food, goods or services directly to residences; xvii) Airlines, taxis, and other private transportation providers providing transportation services necessary for Essential Activities and other purposes expressly authorized in this Order; Care for Elders is Important xviii) Home-based care for seniors, adults, or children; xix) Residential facilities and shelters for seniors, adults, and children; xx) Professional services, such as legal or accounting services, when

By Ron Conte, Pharm.D.

different dosing regimens may be more effective?

Some thought has been given to the use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors such as captopril, lisinopril, and others. In addition, angiotensin receptor blockers such as losartan, irbesartan, and others have also been suggested to treat COVID-19.

It is known that the virus does enter cells through what is termed the renin-angiotensin system.

It is not known whether angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers inhibit or accelerate

entry of the virus into the cell.

Additional studies are needed.

Patients with hypertension and/ or heart failure seem to have higher morbidity due to the virus’s effect on the renin-angiotensin system.

Questions arise about the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naprosyn, and others to treat symptoms of a COVID-19 infection.

Can these agents increase the sensitivity of viral entry or ameliorate infectious symptoms? For now, the data are lacking.

So too for corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone, prednisone and others.

The second phase of the COVID-19 infection involves an inflammatory response of the lungs. Would the corticosteroids reduce the inflammation or contribute to worsening the patient’s condition? It may be possible to successfully treat COVID-19 with a combination of antiviral agents plus corticosteroids. More studies are needed.

necessary to assist in compliance with legally mandated activities; xxi) Childcare facilities providing services that enable employees exempted in this Order to work as permitted. To the extent possible, childcare facilities must operate under the following mandatory conditions: a) Childcare must be carried out in stable groups of 12 or fewer (“stable” means that the same 12 or fewer children are in the same group each day). b) Children shall not change from one group to another. c) If more than one group of children is cared for at one facility, each group shall be in a separate room. Groups shall not mix with each other. d) Childcare providers shall remain solely with one group of children.

Minimum Operations G) For the purposes of this Order, “Minimum Basic Operations” include the following, provided that employees comply with Social Distancing Requirements as defined in this Section, to the extent possible, while carrying out such operations: i) The minimum necessary activities to maintain the value of the business’s inventory, ensure security, process payroll and employee benefits, or for related functions. ii) The minimum necessary activities to facilitate employees of the business being able to continue to work remotely from their residences.

H) For the purposes of this Order, “Essential Travel” includes travel

for any of the following purposes.

Individuals engaged in any Essential Travel must comply with all Social Distancing Requirements as defined in this Section below. i) Any travel related to the provision of or access to Essential Activities, Essential Governmental Functions, Essential Businesses, or Minimum Basic Operations. ii) Travel to care for elderly, minors, dependents, persons with disabilities, or other vulnerable persons. iii) Travel to or from educational institutions for purposes of receiving materials for remote learning, for receiving meals, and any other related services. iv) Travel to return to a place of residence from outside the jurisdiction. v) Travel required by law enforcement or court order. vi) Travel required for non-residents to return to their place of residence outside the County. Individuals are strongly encouraged to verify that their transportation out of the County remains available and functional prior to commencing such travel.

I) For purposes of this Order, residences include hotels, motels, shared rental units and similar facilities.

Social Distancing a Must J) For purposes of this Order, “Social Distancing Requirements” includes maintaining at least six-foot social distancing from other individuals, washing hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds as frequently as possible or using hand

sanitizer, covering coughs or sneezes (into the sleeve or elbow, not hands), regularly cleaning high-touch surfaces, and not shaking hands.

11) Pursuant to Government Code sections 26602 and 41601 and Health and Safety Code section 101029, the Health Officer requests that the Sheriff and all chiefs of police in the County ensure compliance with and enforce this Order. The violation of any provision of this Order constitutes an imminent threat to public health.

12) This Order shall become effective at 12:01 a.m. on March 17, 2020 and will continue to be in effect until 11:59 p.m. on April 7, 2020, or until it is extended, rescinded, superseded, or amended in writing by the Health Officer.

13) Copies of this Order shall promptly be: (1) made available outside the offices of the County of Santa Cruz at 701 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060; (2) posted on the County Health Services Agency website (www.santacruzhealth.org); and (3) provided to any member of the public requesting a copy of this Order.

14) If any provision of this Order or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held to be invalid, the reminder of the Order, including the application of such part or provision to other persons or circumstances, shall not be affected and shall continue in full force and effect. To this end, the provisions of this Order are severable.

IT IS SO ORDERED: ——— Gail Newel, MD Health Officer of the County of Santa Cruz Dated: March 16, 2020,

24 / April 1st 2020 / Aptos Capitola Soquel Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“COVID-19” page 27

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Living Normal in Abnormal Times

By Patrick Kelley

W

hatever ‘Normal’ is, this ain’t it! We are all facing some interesting unknowns; this thing that has risen up so quickly is something nobody has dealt with before.

How long, how bad, how many, how much? So many questions.

We’ve faced crisis before and weathered them, but I think with this, everybody is baffled and we ALL feel stressed These are just a few of my thoughts, and if you feel I’m stuffed with wild blueberry muffins, so be it.

Do it the way YOU are most comfortable, but just for consideration ...

••• Try to live normally. That will be hard for many as situations have or will change — and change quickly — what was yesterday, may not be that way today. But try to do the things you normally do, just be smarter about how you do them.. We are going to have to roll with the changes whether we like it or not ...

Be a good or better neighbor. We all know how to do this, but too often we wait until a drama arises to offer help. If you know somebody that is alone, possibly of compromised health, or mentally freaking out, then help out! What can you offer, what can you do? Even chatting about situations or the state of things can help.

Don’t be afraid to knock on the door and say “Are you Ok? ... anyway I can help?”

You remember how to knock ...

Hunker down over the weekend and

take stock of your situations. Prepare for the unknown if you can, or ask for help if you need it. Hunker down, but DON’T isolate yourself ...

Don’t panic! Also take a breath?

Perhaps turn off the news and give it a rest. Remember Music and Movies and Reading ... these are great diversions from the 24-hour news cycle. We will all get the info at some point ...

Know that many people will become financially challenged. Jobs will be lost, businesses will go out of business, income streams will be disrupted. If you can, help those who will strongly feel the pain.

Just think about how many lives will be changed — not just yours, and help if you are able. Try to live normally by buying and supporting normally ...

Talk to your kids — not to freak them out but to inform. Also listen to them: they are going to tell YOU things you might not know ...

Reach out to your families, your clergy if appropriate, or anybody you feel can be of consolation. It’s ok the tell others how you are feeling, really it is ...

Try to be of gratitude. We live in this amazing country with vast resources.

Tests will be more readily available, health care will hopefully meet the daunting needs and vaccines will be developed, albeit not overnight. We are a strong and resilient country and we WILL get thru this ...

Finally, be nice! Most EVERYONE is feeling scared and vulnerable, As you go

about your day, be a little nicer and more considerate — The Golden Rule strongly applies here ...

••• Here’s hoping that this virus will be defeated or managed and that we will learn how to better deal with upcoming anomalies...as they too may become the new normal ... keep the faith. n ••• Patrick Kelley, who grew up in Fresno, has lived in Rio Del Mar for 20 years and is the owner of a small business.

Mysteries and Thrillers

ACROSS

1. Wire danger 6. Part of a circumference 9. Nashville’s Keith 13. In a cold manner 14. Prefix for something revived 15. Paralyzing disease 16. Mulled wine 17. Egg cells 18. A do-nothing 19. *”Alphabet Series” detective novels author 21. *”It’s close to midnight, and something evil’s lurking in ____ ____” 23. Second mo.

24. Fabricca Italiana Automobili Torino

25. Not don’ts 28. Popular Japanese soup 30. *Agatha Christie’s famous sleuth 35. Wood sorrels 37. “Through” in text 39. Give sheep a haircut 40. Raise the roof 41. Wall or pedestal support 43. Cogito, ____ sum 44. Drink like a cat, two words 46. Be inclined 47. Commotions 48. Bewitch or beguile 50. Jack and Jill’s water jug 52. Put to work 53. *James Patterson’s “____ the Girls” 55. “Jack and the Beanstalk” Giant’s disapproval 57. *Hitchcock classic

61. *Poe’s “Tales of ____ and Imagination” 65. In the know 66. *Subject of Roswell’s mystery 68. Cocoon dwellers 69. King Julien XIII of “Madagascar,” e.g.

70. Bubble source 71. Possible allergic reaction 72. Gaelic tongue 73. Store posting, for short 74. Oceanic trenches

DOWN

1. Google alternative 2. Maple genus 3. Capital on the Baltic Sea 4. Blindman’s ____ 5. International ____ of Units 6. In a little while, old-fashioned

7. Once around 8. Raccoon’s South American cousin 9. *The Demon Barber 10. Spanish earthen pot 11. Coffin stand 12. *New ____, setting of “The Alienist” 15. Michelangelo’s famous Vatican statue and others like it, e.g.

20. Death reports, for short 22. Deli offering 24. Baby extractor 25. *Sherlock Holmes creator 26. Continental divide 27. Planktonic tunicate 29. *”Who ____ J.R.?”

31. Actress Perlman 32. “Lost” in Paris 33. Mar-a-___, pl.

34. Having a toothed margin

36. Undesirable location 38. Forearm bone 42. Enlighten 45. Slower 49. Oil drilling apparatus 51. Spoke with a speech defect 54. Make a murmuring sound 56. Chopin’s composition 57. Wide river valley 58. Water carrier 59. L.A. footballers 60. *HBO’s “____ Detective” 61. *Pamela Voorhees and Norma Bates, e.g.

62. D’Artagnan’s sword 63. Stairway alternative 64. Those not opposed 67. *Remus Lupin’s occasional body cover © Statepoint Media

Answers on 31 »

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / April 1st 2020 / 25

Your April Horoscope Times Publishing Group, Inc. Taurus (April 21-May 21)

April begins with you in a rational state of mind when it comes to both relationships and finance.

Neither has been going well for you when you let emotions take over, so taking a moment to step back and consider your options carefully will give you a new outlook. You’re still composed midmonth even as you feel the need for some extravagance, be it a fancy meal, a weekend getaway, or even a new high-performance vehicle, this is the time to treat yourself. Late in the month you’ll be looking for a quick source of income. You may not be done treating yourself, but you’re not ready to pull more from your credit yet.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

You find your self with many directions you can take yourself early in the month. But it also means you will have to make some decisions, and preparing for the future isn’t always your strong suit.

You’re not filtering what’s on your mind mid-month: if you think it, it’s coming out of your mouth.

Not always the best way to conduct yourself, and even if you believe in your opinions, don’t be surprised if some reactions are not to your liking. Late in April you’re in more of a conciliatory mood, which could open you up to new relationships. Sometimes understanding and compassion work for you.

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

You’re having some success working through problems with friends, colleagues or family early in the month. It’s a nice feeling when you get closer to those in your circle. You’re feeling a need to resist indulging in excess mid-April. Usually you know your limits, and you still do, but your instincts are pushing you to pass them, even though you feel you should know better. Late in the month you’re feeling much more sure about life, and maybe it’s time to start working on goals you hope to make in the future: financial, relationships, or both.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 23)

You feel the desire to expand your horizons early in April, even as your conscience keeps you from going too far. You can still have some new fun without overextending yourself. Your desire to stay in control mid-month is fairly strong, but there are some strong opponents in your way. A tough battle may be the only way to stay on top. Later in the month, a lack of stability is on your mind.

You feel the desires to make some permanent choices, but are you ready to follow through on them?

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sep. 22)

It’s hard for you to make your intentions clear to others early in the month. The focus you usually have is missing from your words, and you may have to clean up some problems that arise later.

You’re feeling content mid-month, something that will be enhanced by staying within your means, even when you really would prefer to live it up. This is a good time to make plans to improve your situation. You’ve set some goals as April comes to a close, and there’s no time like the present to push forward to accomplishing them. Your future is in your hands.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 23)

You seem to have more opportunities in both your relationships and business as the month begins. But more doesn’t always mean better: try not to be so distracted that you miss your best choices. Your confidence is high mid-April, but even now it might not take much to cause a falter.

If it does, stay optimistic and focus on your goal to push through any problem. Late in the month you feel a need to excise something that’s souring your life, something about yourself. It’s not easy to change, but the first step is figuring out what you need to change, then developing a plan of attack.

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

The beginning of April is a perfect time to solidify your future in both the office and at home.

Work out those deals; move forward in your relationships. Just don’t forget to read the fine print.

Something is drawing out unpleasant memories mid-month. This isn’t something you can turn away from. Unless you confront what’s causing it, the discomfort could linger. You’re in a grove late in the month, and everything around you is proceeding smoothly. If you have any causes to champion, this is a time that it’ll be easiest to be understood.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

You have a lot on your plate early in the month, but you know exactly what you need to do to get things done, and your motivation is high to complete those projects. You’ll want to finish them quickly though, because there’s a storm of emotions brewing mid-month, and it’s going to be harder to stay focused and maintain your energy through this time. It will get better, but be careful while this feeling is engulfing you. You’re still feeling a bit sluggish late in April, and anyone exhibiting a lot of energy around you might annoy you. Express your need to slow down to your colleague, partner or friend. Hopefully they’ll understand and wait until you’re ready to catch up.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20)

You’re feeling adventurous early in the month, and the desire to build up your nest egg, in both finance and relationships, is strong. You’re also ready to refocus on anything that you might have been slightly slacking on recently. It’s time to move forward. Some things have been troubling you lately, and mid-April finally brings the opportunity to vent your true feelings. It might surprise some friends and colleagues, but staying true to yourself will help smooth down any ruffled feathers. Late in the month you’ve had plenty of time to prepare before making a presentation. You’ve been planning this talk for a while, but you took your time and your ideas and plans are finally ready to be shared and started.

Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb. 18)

You would be happier early in April if finance and relationships could just stay more as ideas than things you have to deal with. It’s hard for you to focus on either right now, or even one direction to take. You’re in a regressive mood mid-month. Others are looking at new things, but you feel like some traditional, or “old,” activities might be more your speed. You don’t often feel this way, but it might be nice to explore the idea for a while. You’re feeling particularly protective late in the month. If something unsavory happens in front of you, you’re not going to just let it pass. The people who appreciate your intervention are the people worth your time.

Pisces (Feb. 19-Mar. 20)

You are feeling a bit unfocused as the month begins; your thoughts ranging from flights of fancy to dreary and severe. But you can resist acting, or even speaking, about them if that’s what you want.

Your energy is up and more focused mid-month, even feeling the unusual desire to step forward with your ideas. Luck doesn’t have to be on your side if you take charge. Your feeling much more deliberate as April comes to a close. You haven’t lost focus, but your sense of timing is strong.

You will be ready when the time to act comes.

Aries (March 21-April 20)

The month begins with your eyes on the horizon. You know things will distract you, but you’re focused on your future right now, and nothing else is going to hold your attention for long. You’re feeling pretty chatty and blunt mid-April, something those around you will have mixed reactions to. Usually you’re more diplomatic, but right now you have things to say and you’re not shy about it. You’re feeling a bit reckless as the month comes to a close. Something unusual is coming, and you’re looking forward to the challenge!

•••

www.tpgonlinedaily.com 26 / April 1st 2020 / Aptos Capitola Soquel Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Advocacy Inc. are working remotely, taking calls about allegations of abuse of On March 20, the National Institutes elders in long-term care facilities with some of Health reported on a study published experienced ombudsmen entering facilities in the New England Journal of Medicine in protective gear to meet with residents. that found the virus causing COVID-19 Grey Bears was detectable in aerosols for up to three rey Bears, a countywide nonprofit at hours, up to four hours on copper, up to 24 2710 Chanticleer Ave., Santa Cruz, hours on cardboard and up to two to three closed its thrift store but recycling service days on plastic and stainless steel. That is open — and so does its “brown bag” prompted more precautions from health delivery of fresh produce and groceries to officials to clean surfaces and wash hands.

3,800 people weekly.

On March 13, Dr. Stephen Parodi “What we need now are financial of Kaiser Permanente shared on JAMA- donations, donations of cleaning supplies network.com plans for droplet precautions and sanitizers (we’re doing OK right now for health care workers and care via tele- but can always use more) and volunteers phone or video conferencing. (under age 65, healthy, non-exposure Seniors Council to anyone with COVID-19),” said Tim lay Kempf, executive director of the Brattan, Grey Bears’ executive director. countywide Seniors Council, said vol“It’s really an absolute shame that we unteers are definitely needed, suggesting can’t have our regular crew here, who are Grey Bears, the Santa Cruz County Vol- pretty much all over 65,” he said in a March unteer Center, and 19 email. “Today was Meals on Wheels of rough. They and we “Anecdotally, the Santa Cruz County. are so sad that they All meal sites in ability to purchase basic have to stay at home.”

Santa Cruz County To volunteer food and supplies is a for seniors, including email grace@greychallenge, for several the Live Oak Senior bears.org or call Center, are closed due 831-479-1055 ext.

241. reasons, especially the to the new social disSome recent impact of people of all tancing rules to slow donors include Shadspread of the coronaages stockpiling things owbrook Restaurant virus COVID-19. in Capitola (which like canned food, toilet donated all of their Kempf said paper, pharmaceutical Meals on Wheels, a cooler food), Lillian’s part of the nonprofit Italian Kitchen (which supplies, etc.”

Community Bridges, sent 10 meals to Clay Kempf, executive director is working to seniors and will again of the countywide Seniors Council make sure people each day to a difwanting a homeferent group referred delivered meal in lieu of the hot lunch at a by Grey Bears), and garden gleaners who center, get one but he noted an increase in brought in lemons. loneliness for those who enjoyed the comDeven Volk, founder of Luna Sea munal sites.

Spirits, a Santa Cruz startup, sent over “We don’t have any statistics to report 1,000 bottles of hand sanitizer to help Grey yet, nor cost estimates for the new needs, Bears.

Kempf said. “Anecdotally, the ability to The award-winning vodka company purchase basic food and supplies is a chal- went into making hand sanitizer “the lenge, for several reasons, especially the moment we heard there was a shortage,” impact of people of all ages stockpiling Luna Sea spokeswoman Trinity Santacruz things like canned food, toilet paper, said. “We are grateful that we have access pharmaceutical supplies, etc. Adding to to ethanol to create a vital product and the challenge of shortages is the often are able to employ people during this aggressive behavior of shoppers, making pandemic.” it more difficult for frail seniors or people The product is made with 80% ethyl with disabilities to navigate markets, even alcohol, aloe gel handmade by Luna Sea, when supplies are available. Efforts are and essential oil. being made to work with pharmacies and The price at the warehouse on Ingalls grocers to provide home delivery of critical Street in Santa Cruz noon to 5 p.m. daily goods.” is: 65ml spray bottle, $5 each; 200ml refill/ He is reviewing the results of a new pocket bottle, $10. Because of the spray senior needs assessment and expects to bottle shortage, people can get a refill of issue a report soon. their own personal bottle for pennies per The Area Agency on Aging reduced milliliter. n hours for employees and staff at Del Mar ••• Caregiver Resource Center are working Orders can be made by messaging Luna from home, using phone and videocon- Sea Vodka on Facebook, Instagram, or email. ferencing. Staff at the Ombudsman/ Shipping costs ranges from $8-$15.

“Finding Help” from page 10

G

C

FEATURED COLUMNIST

We’re #InThisTogether

Soquel Creek Water District Embraces Community Partnerships

T

he Soquel Creek Water District is engaged in multiple approaches to combat over-drafting 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.

All of us who enjoy the Monterey Bay and its shoreline should thank the local nonprofit Save Our Shores (SOS), for its tireless work to ensure this natural treasure is protected, preserved, and enhanced.

Since 1978, this organization has been leading the charge to safeguard the bay, working to maintain clean shores, healthy habitats, and living waters.

“COVID-19” from page 24 There has been much talk about the use of chloroquine and its derivative, hydroxychloroquine, two drugs used as antimalarials, amebicides, and to treat rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Chloroquine was actually studied in 2005 to treat coronavirus. Chloroquine creates an alkali media which destroys the coronavirus.

These are promising drugs for not only to treat COVID-19, but as preventative agents.

New York State began a study March 24 using the combination of hydroxychloroquine and an antibiotic, azithromycin.

I believe the antibiotic has been added to combat possible bacterial lung infections seen with COVID-19. Additional studies of dosing regimens and timing are needed.

Remdesivir is an antiviral agent used to treat the Ebola virus. It is still an experimental agent but is being tested soon in 1,000 patients in Nebraska to determine dosing and efficacy in treating COVID-19.

An anti-influenza drug, favipiravir, approved in Japan, has shown promising

SOS Executive Director Katherine O’Dea says that her organization’s mission and goals are well-aligned with those of the Soquel Creek Water District.

“Our mission and purpose of ocean protection and conservation, especially Monterey Bay, are very complementary to those of the District,” she notes. “Where our priorities lie in working to assure a clean, healthy, thriving marine environment, the District’s are focused on providing an essential, fundamental need of life – a clean, sustainable supply of drinking water.”

She goes on to say that, “The District’s work to support local water resources really resonate with our goals. The ocean is ultimately the source of all water, and together we’re addressing both the macro and local scale of the challenges and threats to water.”

Katherine is well-versed in both sides of that equation, understanding not only the global threats to oceans worldwide, such as climate change, plastics pollution, wildlife disturbance, and habitat degradation, but also the water supply challenges in the mid-county area.

“The groundwater basin is in a critical state of over-draft, and with that comes documented saltwater intrusion which can destroy that water source,” she says.

“This problem comes from a combination of too little natural recharge due to climate variability, and over-use of the water that is there.” Katherine notes that the District’s water conservation education has been very successful in addressing part of the problem. “The second part of the solution is recharging the aquifer from a new source of water — and their water reuse program will accomplish that.”

Appreciating that the District is taking a range of approaches to address the water supply problem, Katherine is confident in the Pure Water Soquel Project. “Water reuse, especially in the way the District will be implementing it, has many environmental benefits including reducing the amount of treated wastewater being pumped into the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. With Pure Water Soquel, the District is on the right track to solve our local water supply challenges.”

Another area of convergence between these two agencies is helping youth and

results. After four days of treatment for COVID-19, patients tested negative who originally tested positive. However, this drug may not be effective in severe forms of COVID-19. There are no published studies as of today.

Japan has an agent, camostat mesylate,

used to treat chronic pancreatitis and reflux esophagitis. This drug has been found to block COVID-19 from infecting the lungs.

As with the other drugs mentioned here, studies are needed to determine the true efficacy as well as the side effects when treating COVID-19.

families to understand and engage with protection of water resources — whether it’s the oceans and shorelines, or the groundwater supply. Save Our Shores has programs to bring kids to the beach for the first time, offers a K-12 curriculum on marine science and conservation, and encourages students to become the next generation of environmental stewards with the S.O.S. Wavemakers youth leadership network.

For their part, the District’s educational outreach includes providing water education materials, offering school presentations for all grades, sponsoring water education assemblies at schools, and bringing its award-winning Mobile Education Trailer to schools, events, and festivals.

Save Our Shores and the Soquel Creek Water District are a good example of #InThisTogether, with harmonizing missions, complementary education and outreach, a focus on the long-term, and achievements around protecting water. 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.

Lastly, antibodies to fight the infection found in the plasma of COVID-19-infected patients may be safely transferred to patients who test positive for the virus. This could prove to be a very effective way to treat those with mild cases of the COVID-19 infection. This method may also prove to be an effective preventative measure.

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, studies necessary to determine drug efficacy do not need to be formalized.

It is time for practical research, delineating which parameters are required in monitoring this viral infection. Use of most drugs listed above will fall under the category of “compassionate use”—when a drug can be used for an unapproved indication and there is no other drug is available to treat the disease.

I will provide more information about treating COVID-19 in future articles. Stay safe. Wash your hands and practice social distancing. n ••• The second part of my article, Alcohol— The Sedative, will appear at a later date.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / April 1st 2020 / 27

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR THE MONTEREY SYMPHONY The Monterey Symphony is seeking volunteers. If you love music and want to be involved, please call (831) 646-8511 or visit www.montereysymphony.org for more info.

ONGOING EVENTS Daily SANTA CRUZ ‘USED’ BOOKSHOP 10 am- 3 pm 2710 Chanticleer Ave. Santa Cruz Grey Bears: Every Monday and Friday is $10a-bag book sale. Fill up a shopping bag with books for only $10! Thousands of titles for $1.50 or less: cookbooks, gardening, sci-fi, mysteries, classics and all sorts of fiction and nonfiction.

Non-profit Grey Bears has served our community for 45 years. Grey Bears provides recycling services and accepts books and other donations for our thrift stores.

Proceeds benefit our Brown Bag Program, distributing nutritious food to 3,900 seniors every week.

Weekdays CASA ORIENTATIONS TO BECOME ADVOCATES FOR CHILDREN CASA empowers volunteers to directly influence life-changing decisions affecting children in foster care. Court appointed special advocates are everyday people that, with just a few hours a week can have a lifetime of impact for a child who has been abused or neglected.

More info www.casaofsantacruz.org or call 831-761-2956 x102 Second Mondays COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS OF SANTA CRUZ 7-8:30 p.m., Quaker Meeting House, 225 Rooney St. Santa Cruz Parents of a child who died at any age, from any cause, any length of time ago, are invited to join The Compassionate Friends of SC for our monthly grief support meeting. Opening circle followed by smaller connection groups.

Grief materials available. Bereaved grandparents and adult siblings are also welcome. Nonreligious.

Visit www.tcfsantacruz.com or call 831.332.9893 for more information.

Third Mondays STITCHERS BY THE SEA 7 –9 p.m., St. Stephan’s Lutheran Church, 2500 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz The Santa Cruz County chapter of the Embroiderers Guild of America meets on the third Monday of every month, except June and December. Meetings are free to attend. All are welcome.

Mondays & Tuesdays WOMENCARE ARM-IN-ARM 12:30 - 2 p.m.

WomenCARE ARM-in-ARM support group for women with advanced, recurrent and metastatic cancers. Meets weekly Mondays & Tuesdays, with a separate meeting every First and Third Tuesday every month.

Registration required. Call 457-2273 for more information and to register. No cost to attend. www.womencaresantacruz.org

With the current COVID-19 Crisis, please check in advance before attending any ongoing or dated events listed here.

We will continue to print regular ongoing events that are expected to return.

Tuesdays OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS MEETING 7 - 8 pm, Christ Lutheran Church, Gazebo, 10707 Soquel Dr., Aptos Do you have a proble m with compulsive over- or undereating? Anorexia? Bulimia? Compulsive exercising?

You are not alone. Drop into a free, friendly OA 12-Step meeting with the solution. All are welcome!

For information on other meetings in Santa Cruz County: www. santacruzoa.org/meetings WRITING/DISCUSSION MEETING 6:30-7:30 p.m., Christ Lutheran Church, Gazebo Room, 10707 Soquel Dr., Aptos, CA 95003 (At Hwy One and Freedom Blvd) Do you have a problem with food? Please check out our free, friendly 12-Step support group with the solution.

All teens and adults welcome!

For current times and locations of other meetings: www. santacruzoa.org/meetings. Or call our Hotline at (831) 429-7906.

BINGO 6:30 p.m. Santa Cruz Elks Lodge, 150 Jewell St. BINGO EVERY TUESDAY. Buy-in begins at $21. The Snack Bar is open with goodies and dinner specials.

BUSINESS DEBTORS ANONYMOUS 5:15-6:30pm, Calvary Episcopal Church, Parish Hall, 532 Center Street, Santa Cruz.

We specifically focus on recovering from debting on one’s business.

For more information: 831-425-3272.

Tuesdays & Wednesdays SURVIVORS SUPPORT GROUPS Monarch Services offers a safe space to meet other survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking survivors, and to listen or share experiences. Childcare provided on site.

Spanish – Tuesdays 6:00-7:30 p.m. Servicios Monarca, 233 E. Lake Avenue, Watsonville (831) 722-4532 English – Wednesdays 6:00-7:30 p.m. Monarch Services, 1590 Seabright Avenue, SC (831) 4254030 For more information, visit www.monarchscc.org

diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia, a caregiver support group can offer you an opportunity to find out more about available community resources, learn from others who are going through similar experiences, and obtain additional educational materials.

Our evening Santa Cruz caregiver support 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 Tuesdays & Thursdays questions or concerns. Come share with those who FREE PILATES CLASSES AT TEMPLE BETH EL understand.

10 a.m., Temple Beth El, 3055 Porter Gulch Rd., Aptos Second Wednesdays’ meeting is for parents of Please join us every Tuesday and Thursday at 10 am in children, teens, and young adults with ADHD. The the social hall at Temple Beth El in Aptos (3055 Porter group for adults with ADHD, spouses, partners of Gulch Rd) for a lively and challenging 60 minute Pilates someone with ADHD meets fourth Wednesdays of Strength Class. The classes are free and everybody is every month. welcome. Donation are welcome.

Judy Brenis: jbbrenis@comcast.net, or call 831-818For more information https://www.tbeaptos.org 9619.

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

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

Alzheimer’s Association, 550 Water Street, Ste L2, SC If you have a family member who has been

28 / April 1st 2020 / Aptos Capitola Soquel Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

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.

Thursdays FRIENDSHIP PUT TO MUSIC! 6:30 p.m., New Hall, La Selva Beach Club House, 3124 Estrella Ave. Classes every Thursday night. For more info call Sue Harris or Don Benson (831) 726-7053 or email at caller4u@att.net 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.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ONGOING EVENTS (cont.)

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.)

You are not alone. Drop into a free, friendly OA 12-Step meeting with the solution. All are welcome!

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.

FRIDAY SHAKESPEARE CLUB 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Peace United Church of Christ at 900 High Street, Santa Cruz Curious about Shakespeare? The Friday Shakespeare Club members discuss the life, times, and influence of William Shakespeare.

For information, call 831-684-2832, or go to friday shakespeare.org or facebook.com/fridayshakespeare.

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.

FRIDAY SHAKESPEARE CLUB We have all found help in Recovering Couples OF SANTA CRUZ Anonymous.

10 am - noon, Peace United Church, 909 High Street For more information visit our website: https://santacruzrca.org This is the oldest women’s club in Santa Cruz. The club or email us at rcasantacruz@yahoo.com meets to study the life, works and times of William Shakespeare. Members share group readings and FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH BIBLE STUDY insights, discuss history, and universal themes found in 9:45 a.m: Bible Study • 11 a.m.: Worship his plays and writings.

7565 Sunset Way, Aptos For more information please call 831-684-2832 First Baptist Church of Aptos welcomes you to join their bible study and worship every Sunday.

Saturdays Call (831) 688-5842 for more info PILLS ANONYMOUS (PA) 8 a.m., Sutter Hospital, 2025 Soquel Ave First Sunday of Every Month The purpose of PA is to provide a safe, secure, and SANTA CRUZ DINNER CLUB EVENT supportive place for people who are addicted to pills 5 p.m., various member homes throughout county who want to get off of them. PA is offered all over the Love to cook, entertain and socialize? Our world. dinner club events will be held in several homes For questions, please contact Gary at (831)801-9578 or Kristin throughout Santa Cruz County where members at (831)345-6515 enjoy gourmet meals, fine wine and conversation.

Joining the club provides a great opportunity to SANTA CRUZ TENNIS CLUB cook, to entertain, and to meet locals that share 9 a.m., Soquel High School Tennis Courts your interests.

The nonprofit Santa Cruz Tennis Club meets every Learn more about the SC Dinner Club and the fun we Saturday morning at the Soquel High School courts have by contacting Rhonda Mills at info@SantaCruz beginning at 9:00 am. We play doubles and mixed DinnerClub.com doubles, mostly at an intermediate level, and switch around the players every 45 minutes.

Third Sunday of Every Month Balls are provided. $2 for first time visitors.

SCIENCE SUNDAY Second Saturdays Each Month 2ND SATURDAY ON THE FARM 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Ag History Project Center at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Join us every 2nd Saturday on the Farm for free family activities. Each month we select a new theme to highlight historical agriculture with games, activities, and demonstrations that relate.

We often have guest appearances from farm animals like llamas, draft horses, sheep, goats, chickens, rabbits, and more! You are sure to find something fun and entertaining for the whole family.

Check our website and Facebook page for more details. FREE Sundays OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS MEETING 4 - 5 pm, Ben Lomond Community Library, 9525 Mill St., Ben Lomond Do you have a problem with compulsive over- or undereating? Anorexia? Bulimia? Compulsive exercising?

Starts at 1 p.m., 100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, 95060 Seymour Marine Discovery Center presents a public lecture from a marine scientist the third Sunday of every month. Topics are presented in an entertaining and easy-to-understand format, with up-to-date photos, video, and discussion.

Science Sunday does not meet in December. For more info visit seymourcenter.ucsc.edu

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Learning In a Time of Crisis

By Ryan Colligan

A Family-Owned Business Responds

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veryone has a plan ‘till they get we allowed them to temporarily step away punched in the mouth,” was famously while saving their shifts for whenever they said by boxing legend, Mike Tyson. felt comfortable coming back. For those that On March 16, our two businesses, are comfortable, we have provided PPE for Oceanside Supported Living and Safe at use during shifts, educational resources Home Senior Care, received a Mike Tyson- to protect them and our clients and 24/7 size punch square in the mouth when the ongoing support from our case management COVID-19 pandemic created a “shelter-in- team. place” ordinance throughout Santa Cruz Overtime, which is normally a major County. operational concern, has been an afterWhile many businesses were forced to thought as our priorities have shifted to shut their doors, ours have remained open. keeping our clients and employees cared for.

In fact, due to the nature of the services we 2) Align Incentives with Desired Actions provide, our clients have relied on us now he majority of our employees are more than ever. hourly workers. These employees rely Oceanside provides services that allow on their bi-weekly paychecks to put food adults with developmental on their tables. disabilities to live safely and We didn’t want our independently in a manner employees to feel like they of their own choosing. Safe at had to make the decision to Home provides quality, nonwork out of necessity even if medical in-home care to the they were feeling sick so we elderly. We work with some of developed a policy to eliminate the most vulnerable individuals that conflict. in Santa Cruz County which Employees who are sick is why our services have been receive 75% of their normal designated as “essential” by the working wage if they are forced Lena, a member of the Oceanside to miss work due to illness for Department of Public Health.

As the director of both Supported Living’s direct support an extended period of time. We staff, with Carol, a client. agencies, my challenge has been want our employees to feel like to support the health and well-being of our they can protect their health and the health 180 employees while continuing to provide of our clients without fear of lost income. quality services to our 60 clients during this 3) Stay Connected time of crisis. As I write this, we are in the n a dynamic environment such as this, thick of it. We are learning and adapting our it’s critical to keep open lines of comway through this pandemic the best we can. munication with your team. Our team While we don’t have all the answers, we communicates through several different have learned three important lessons that channels to ensure that information can have helped us stay on course. be shared and questions are answered in a 1) Put Employees First timely manner. ountless studies have shown that happy Our management team has an active employees are more invested in their group chat for daily correspondence. work. We have the most compassionate, Every Friday, we host our weekly Zoom dedicated and caring employees as a part calls to check-in with one another and stay of our team which is why their health and connected on major happenings. Emails safety is our number one priority. and phone calls go out daily to all of our Following the shelter-in-place ordi- clients, their family members and all our nance, all employees who were able to, were staff with updates and helpful resources. asked to work from home. Others, providing Being punched in the mouth hurts direct support to our clients, were called indi- but it’s not the end of the fight. For us, vidually and asked if they felt comfortable it’s just the beginning. We will continue working and were told they would be sup- to learn, continue to adapt and hopefully, ported with whatever decision they made. when this all over, end up stronger than For those that didn’t feel comfortable, we’ve ever been. n

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Business Guide

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Our Community’s Response to COVID-19

By Zach Friend

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TO ADVERTISE IN THE BUSINESS GUIDE SECTION

call our offices 831.688.7549

www.tpgonlinedaily.com

he community is faced with an unprecedented set of challenges in regards to COVID-19.

From the very real health and economic impacts to the social and emotional challenges associated with pandemic, we must rely on each other to respond and help shape the duration and destiny of the impacts the virus. Now more than ever we must heed the advice of county public health experts, local medical, epidemiological and public safety professionals in regards to how we can best participate in controlling the spread of coronavirus.

As a community, it’s important to acknowledge a few things. First, things will get worse before they get better. We are entering (at the time of this article running and into the next month) a period where the potential for the county’s hospitals and health facilities becoming overwhelmed is a distinct possibility. The governor is anticipating the shelter in place order to last at least until May (and possibly longer).

Additionally, many reading this article have lost their job or had a family member lose their job — putting additional strains on families in a community where the cost of living is already one of the highest in the country. The economic rebuild out of this challenge may take a while and depends upon the duration of the virus and the efficacy of some of the new state and federal infusions that should be arriving soon.

But it’s also important to acknowledge that the future is not yet written. Each of us can play a large role in preventing the spread of the virus and as a direct result shortening the duration of any health and economic impacts in our community.

Here are some things we can do to support our families, friends and neighbors during this time.

1) Property tax dates are set by the state and therefore can’t be changed locally. However, the local Treasurer/Tax Collector has the ability to waive fees and interest if you are unable to pay due to the COVID-19 impacts.

30 / April 1st 2020 / Aptos Capitola Soquel Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

You can apply for this from the County’s website www.santacruzcounty.us - go to the Tax Collector’s website and select “Application for Tax Penalty Cancellation” from their main page.

2) Support local nonprofits helping vulnerable populations. Meals on Wheels, Second Harvest Food Bank, Grey Bears and others need donations and volunteers. Information is available on their websites. If you need their services, you can visit their websites for requests.

3) Support our front-line health care and public safety professionals. The most important thing we can do is socially distance and adhere to the shelter in place order -- so that we minimize the likelihood we will need their help (which also places them at additional risk). If you or your networks have access to personal protective equipment, N95 masks or other items, there is a significant shortage and our local health care workers need this equipment.

4) Follow the guidelines set forth and updated daily at www. santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus. You can also call 211 or text “COVID19” to 211211. Residents may also call (831) 454-4242 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m for a staffed hotline 5) Small businesses and their employees are at risk of losing their livelihoods. You can support local restaurants by ordering food for take-out and

delivery. Please allow the food delivery to be non-contact by knock and leaving the food at the door. Ordering gift certificates from your favorite local retailers could allow them to stay in business until after restrictions are lifted.

6) Please try to avoid spreading false information. Check the source and focus on government health guidance.

7) Call your healthcare provider if you have fever, cough and respiratory difficulties before you visit your doctor -- they will guide you to the appropriate next steps.

8) Finally, health is not determined by a single disease. Take time away from news to walk, sleep, eat healthy foods and care for yourself and your loved ones.

Participate in community virtually - with livestream faith services and Zoom video discussions with friends and family.

Be kind. It does not do you or our healthcare system any good to replace one healthcare threat with others.

We are a community that has come through many natural disasters — from earthquakes to fires and floods. We are exceptionally resilient and resourceful and I have complete confidence we will tap into that to pull us through this — as a community. n ••• As always, if you need anything please feel free to call me at 454-2200 or email me at zach.friend@santacruz county.us

SCCAS Featured Pet Dagwood Needs You! Badly!

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e have all been scratching our heads about why Dagwood (A266906) has been with us so long. This silly, social, athletic, elfin boy is not only adorable but a great, compact size.

He has been social and active since he arrived and is a great companion in the making.

He does need to smooth out some rough edges (still doesn’t understand that a counter isn’t necessarily for jumping on) so he needs some angel adopters that will find his antics amusing and will have the patience to gently redirect him and wait out his decompression period.

Dagwood is food motivated but hasn’t shown any tendency to be possessive about his goodies. He is VERY eager around other dogs and desperately wants someone to romp with. His “girlfriend” and perfect playmate (another pittie) got adopted, which was great for her but a sad day for Dagwood.

He has been equally enthusiastic about meeting all dogs, which can be a little overwhelming for some of the pipsqueaks and old timers, so he will need to be introduced to any resident dogs prior to adoption to make sure everyone will stay happy.

He has been enjoying any attention and all types of handling but after so long in the kennel, is a bit restless and distracted (understandably).

He is bouncy on leash and does some eager pulling but does well on the harness we’ve fitted him with. Dagwood gallops around when free to run and will begin to chase tennis balls but doesn’t necessarily go the distance.

He really wants to be close to his family, human and dog members alike.

This wonderful, outgoing guy needs to find an energetic family that can give him daily exercise, plenty of patience, positive reinforcement training, and LOTS of love.

Unless you are a rough and tumble family with experience around no-sense-ofpersonal-space dogs, children in the home should be 10+ since Dagwood still acts like a pup and wants to “hug” people and barrel around his environment at times.

No info on how he’d do with cats.

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

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Rodents Will Never Give Up

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By Tony Tomeo

one of the most problematic rodents here hibernate completely.

Only ground squirrels hibernate, but they are rare, and tend to avoid home gardens and refined landscapes. Some other rodents are less active through the cooler parts of winter, but never completely stop eating, chewing and digging up what they want from our gardens. Many will become more active with warming weather.

Gophers are the most destructive rodents right now. They might still be excavating the mud of last winter from their tunnels. They will find plenty to eat as warming weather stimulates root growth of their favorite plants. Young gophers are growing up and leaving home, to excavate more tunnels and consume more vegetation elsewhere. They are more numerous now than they will be all year.

Squirrels are not so industrious. For now, they are destructive only if they dig out recently planted seedlings and bedding plants, or eat flowers and freshly emerging foliage. They should otherwise be temporarily satisfied with acorns that they hid late last year. They will become more of a problem as they eat ripening fruit, nuts and maybe vegetables later in summer.

Some might chew bark.

Rats are sneakier than squirrels. They are not as destructive to ripening nuts and stone fruits, but do eat some of what falls to the ground. Although not a problem for the garden, well-fed rats infest adjacent homes, where they cause serious damage.

At this time of year, rats sometimes ruin citrus fruit. They eat the pulp out from the rinds of oranges and tangerines, and the rind off of lemons.

Rodents are nearly impossible to exclude completely and safely from gardens. Poisons are too dangerous to be

Mysteries and Thrillers © Statepoint Media

Warming weather brings out the gophers.

practical around the home, particularly if there are dogs or cats anywhere nearby.

Traps are safer and effective, but require diligence. Also, some traps are difficult to set. Each type of rodent exhibits distinct characteristics. That which controls one type is ineffective for another.

Sanitation and vegetation management deters some rodents by depriving them of sustenance and nesting sites.

•••

Foliar aroma rather than floral fragrance.

Breath of Heaven loom may not wait until spring. Breath of Heaven, Coleonema pulchellum, can start to bloom late in winter if it chooses to.

After another more prolific bloom phase sometime in spring, sporadic bloom can continue until autumn. The delightfully pale lavender pink flowers are tiny, but abundant during bloom phases. A few are likely to linger after the main phases, until another phase begins.

The straight species is not as popular as it formerly was. It gets to be approximately five feet tall and broad, or a bit bigger if crowded. Nowadays, most Breath of Heaven are ‘Compactum’, which do not get much taller than three feet, with delightfully wispy light green foliage.

‘Sunset Gold’ has bright greenish gold foliage that stays lower than two feet. All have impressively aromatic foliage.

Breath of Heaven is best where it does not need much pruning for confinement.

Frequent shearing compromises foliar texture and inhibits bloom. Partial shade likewise inhibits bloom, although it can also promote an appealingly sparser and wispier foliar texture. Unfortunately, Breath of Heaven does not live for very long. Even the healthiest and oldest specimens may not last twenty years. n ••• Horticulturist Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo.com.

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