18 minute read
The Way Forward Through Chaos, By Rene Schlaepfer
FEATURED COLUMNIST The Way Forward Through Chaos
By Rene Schlaepfer
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It was already a tough year: The coronaself-sacrifice. King felt that selfless loving virus, civil unrest, a national reckoning action is what makes a person, and a on racism, a divisive presidential nation, truly great. Jesus’ sacrifice was part election. of King’s own narrative as an example of
Then the fires happened. moral courage.
What’s the way forward through this But suddenly King was overcome with kind of chaos? It’s very personal for me. tears: “I never will forget the experience… The church I help lead runs a camp near something overwhelmed me, I fell to my Big Basin where generations of Santa knees. Before I knew it, I was weeping. I Cruzans had their first summer camp started thinking in a way that I’d never experience: Camp Hammer. While we have thought before of the meaning of the cross. not yet been able to conclusively The cross…tells us not only about determine the extent of the fire the moral commitment of Jesus damage, all indications point to Christ, but it tells us about the catastrophic destruction. love of God himself. What is the
The very good news is that cross but God’s way of saying the entire staff and their families, to a wayward child, ‘I still love about 20 people, are safe. you, and I am willing to go any
The bad news: They lost length…in order to redeem you.’” everything else. Their experience is shared by scores of others in Rene Schlaepfer But the cross was only the first half of the storyline. our county, many of whom sheltered at our “From that cross, there was a little church last week. walk, maybe about seventy-five feet. They
How does anyone get through that? told us that this is the tomb where Jesus To handle tragedy, everyone seeks a story was buried. But our guide said, ‘I want you line. This how we make sense of our world. to know that this tomb is empty. He is not Consciously or subconsciously, we write a there now.’” narrative to explain our experience. King continued, “This is our hope.
So what’s your story line? How you The tomb is empty. Jesus lives…This is frame your experience can bring courage what keeps us going. This is why you can or fear, hope or despair. go out with new hope for the future. No
This week I read a sermon preached matter how dark it gets…let us not be disby the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in illusioned. So often we’ve been crucified. 1959 where he talked about the narrative We’ve been buried in numerous graves… that framed his life: Two events from a But I’m here to tell you, the resurrection 2,000 year-old story. reminds us…God will bring the light of
Dr. King described his visit to the day out of the darkness of midnight.” ancient Church of the Holy Sepulcher in The storyline that kept King going? Jerusalem, the place where Jesus Christ is The cross (self-sacrifice and death) leads to thought to have been crucified and buried. the empty tomb (hope and new life). Out
He told how he stood first before of crucifixion there can be resurrection. a cross, stirred by the example of Jesus’ I believe this. Our communities can rise
again better than before. We can grow closer together, less afraid, more eager to understand.
Last week I met with our camp staff hours after the fire. We sat at our church, in a large circle, face-masked, socially distanced, crying.
Then Eric Swanson-Dexel, our camp director, turned to one of his daughters. Through tears he said, “I want you to remember the meaning of your name… Phoenix.
The bird who died and then rose out of the ashes to new life. We chose that name for you because our faith tells us, out of ashes, new life rises. And I want to tell you, new life will rise out of the ashes of camp.”
That’s the gospel story line.
Out of the ashes comes new life. Out of this crucifixion there can be a resurrection.
Is that your storyline now? Then you can face anything. n •••
Rene Schlaepfer is pastor at Twin Lakes Church in Aptos, which is making parking
Photo Credit: Kevin Painchaud spaces available for up to 50 fire-evacuated resi dents, with bathrooms, water and food available.
Plenty of Free Customer Parking
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Epicenter Cycling Trek Bicycles for All Types of Riders 662-8100
Dentistry for Animals Dr. Judy Force, DVM 768-7148
COMMUNITY NEWS SBA Opens Virtual Wildfire Recovery Center
Low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to Santa Cruz County businesses and residents as a result of President Trump’s major disaster declaration, U.S. Small Business Admin istration’s Administrator Jovita Carranza announced Monday.
The declaration covers Santa Cruz, Lake, Napa, San Mateo, Solano, Sonoma, and Yolo counties as a result of the wild fires that began Aug. 14.
“SBA is strongly committed to providing California with the most effective and customer-focused response possible and with access to federal disaster loans to help businesses and residents affected by this disaster,” said Carranza. “Getting our businesses and communities up and running after a disaster is our highest pri ority at SBA.”
In consideration of the public health concerns due to the coronavirus pandemic, SBA established a Virtual Business Recovery Center on Aug, 24 to provide per
“Riniti” from page 8
Take time for a daily body scan. Start at your head, noticing any tension or runaway thoughts, and try to send a deep breath to relax that furrowed brow. Spend a few minutes on your head, moving into chest, arms, belly, legs and toes. If you have trouble feeling a certain area, try squeezing that area tight (make a fist and then slowly release). Feel the difference of a tense vs. a relaxed muscle.
Italian Classes Start Online Sept. 14
announces online classes beginning Sept. 14. Students can choose from Beginning, Intermediate, Advanced and Conversation.
Beginners will engage twice a weekMondays and Thursdays to help put them on firm footing. Classes (1-hour sessions) are offered both mornings and evenings to give students the best choice for their schedules.
Spots are limited. Discounts are given to members. Consider becoming a member. To join or register for classes visit. www. dantesantacruz.com For additional infor mation email: dantesantacruz1265@gmail. com. •••
sonalized assistance to business owners.
SBA also opened a Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center to help homeowners and renters. Customer service representatives will be available to business owners and individuals to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each person complete their electronic loan application.
Hours for the two virtual help centers will be 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays – Fridays at FOCWAssistance@sba.gov and (916) 735-1500.
These services are available only for the California disaster declaration as a result of the wildfires that began Aug. 14, and not for COVID-19 assistance.
Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofits may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment,
Make sure to connect with others, be it social distance, zoom, or any creative way you can find. Remember if you are using electronics, try to stay grounded in your own body while talking to someone. Experiment with ways of not feeling disconnected or “too heady.”
Have a glass of water nearby, share a story and memory that deeply connects you to another. And ask for help, for support with friends, family or a professional.
These are unprecedented times. Usually
Valencia Road Closed For Storm Damage Repair
of Public Works reports that the road closure on Valencia Road at post mile 2.43, near the intersection with Flume Road, will continue through Monday, Aug. 31, weather permitting.
The extension of the road closure is necessary for completion of the soil nail wall.
Motorists should use the posted detours during this phase of construction. Up to date information on county-maintained roads in Santa Cruz County is available online at http://www.sccroadclosure.org/. •••
Public Hearing on Measure D 5-Year Plan
portation Commission will hold a inventory and other business assets. SBA can also lend additional funds to businesses and homeowners to help with the cost of improvements to protect, prevent or minimize the same type of disaster damage from occurring in the future.
For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofits of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available to businesses regardless of any property damage.
Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property.
Interest rates can be as low as 3 percent as a psychologist, I am not experiencing in “real time” the exact same traumas as my clients, allowing or affording some clinical distance/perspective. But these days, we are all in the same sea. Perhaps in different boats, but definitely in the same sea.
So, I get to and/or have to practice each and every day to help steady my own boat. There is no magic pill. I wish there were. But I do believe in the end, we all want the same thing-a safe place to land.
May we be beacons to one another and public hearing via Zoom at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, to provide an opportunity for feedback about how it plans to spend voterapproved Measure D revenues over the next five years.
The RTC will consider plans for projects in these regional categories: • Highway Corridor: auxiliary lanes, bike/pedestrian bridges, safety programs, and traveler information • Active Transportation/Coastal Rail
Trail
• Rail Corridor: analysis and maintenance • San Lorenzo Valley/Highway 9
Corridor
for businesses, 2.75 percent for private nonprofits and 1.188 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.
To be considered for all forms of disaster assistance, survivors must first contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency at www.disasterassistance.gov. Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/.
Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (916) 735-1500 or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov for more information on disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing may call (800) 877-8339. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
Dante Alighieri Society of Santa Cruz
The County of Santa Cruz Department
The Santa Cruz County Regional Trans
Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155. n
help one another stay clear of the rocks. May we each be granted safe passage. Keep on the lookout for “the helpers.” They are out there, sometimes where we would least expect it. n •••
JoAnn Riniti, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist in Aptos. She is practicing loving kindness with herself, her community and the four-legged friends who join her in the wilds of Redwood Village. She can be reached at 831-427-8282.
• Community Bridges Lift Line Para
transit Projects
The draft five-year plans and staff report will be available on the RTC website at least 72 hours before the hearing at: sccrtc.org/meetings/commission/ agendas/.
For board consideration, provide comments no later than noon Sept. 2 to: info@sccrtc.org or provide comments by participating in the hearing via Zoom. The web address is https://us02web.zoom. us/j/89674106616
Dial-in number is +1-669-900-6833 / ID:422744
Broad community participation is encouraged to ensure an informed decision-making process.
More information about Measure D can be found online at: www.sccrtc.org/ move. n
COMMUNITY NEWS Can You Identify This Wallet Thief?
Detectives with the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office are asking the public to help in identifying the suspect in the theft of a CalFire firefighter’s wallet while he was fighting the CZU Lightning Complex fire in Bonny Doon.
The wallet was stolen from his vehicle, which was parked at the Bonny Doon Fire Station on Empire Grade Road, during the overnight hours between Aug. 21 and Aug. 22.
The suspect used one of the stolen credit cards at the Shell Gas Station in Capitola and at Safeway on 41st Avenue in Soquel.
The suspect is a man with lightcolored, shoulder-length hair, last seen wearing a green SF Giants hat, white/ black checkered face mask, black T-shirt, light blue jeans and black Vans-style shoes.
If you have any information, call Detective Nathan Kenville, 831-359-8813. n
Superior Court Judge Candidate
Statement Annrae Angel No statement filed ••• Nancy de la Peña, 62 Assistant County Council www.Nancy4Judge.com Nancy4Judge@gmail.com
Iwill bring experience, integrity and diversity to the Santa Cruz County Superior Court.
During my 34 years as both a Santa Cruz County Public Defender and an Assistant Santa Cruz County Counsel, I handled thousands of cases, including adult and juvenile criminal matters, child protective cases and gun violence restraining orders.
“Judge” page 13
is waiting is waiting for you for you
W e ’ ve RE - OPENED! W e ’ ve You missed us and we really missed you! Join us for the food, the view, and just being out with friends.
Lunch and Dinner are available for curbside pickup. Feel free to enjoy your meal on our deck overlooking the Monterey Bay or down on Seascape Beach. Our To Go menu includes selected cocktails from the bar. OPEN WED – SUN 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM 5:00 - 9:00 PM
COMMUNITY NEWS Banff Mountain Film Festival Goes Virtual
Get off the beaten path and explore the edge of believable with exhilarating stories from the 44thBanff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival. The Rio Theatre in Santa Cruz will host this Virtual Screening Sept. 16 – Oct.17. Stand on the highest peaks, paddle through
Thabang — Wandering Fever the coldest waters, and be a part of the gripping adventures in this year’s Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour.
From exploring remote landscapes to adrenaline-fueled action sports, films selected for this world tour covers more than 40 countries.
Be moved. Be inspired. Don’t miss out.
Local sponsors are Adventure Sports Journal, Bicycle Trip, Santa Cruz Waves, Santa Cruz County Bank, Santa Cruz Bicycles
There will be three programs to choose from, or buy a bundle including all three. For tickets visit https://www.riotheatre.com/ events-2/2020/9/18/banff-centre-mountainfilm-festival-world-tour n
Reel Rock
Celebrate the canine connection through this carefully curated collection of heartwarming stories about dogs and their people when the Top Dog Film Festival — Santa Cruz offers a virtual screening Sept. 20 – 25.
Meet dogs from all walks of life from the comfort of your home. From the surfing dog of Huntington Beach, the bus riding pooch of Seattle, the husky dogs of Alaska to the working dogs of Australia, the pull on your heartstring is guaranteed to be strong.
Meet four-legged heroes, unbreakable bonds and canine companions that enrich the lives of all those they encounter. Experience heartfelt stories of people who dedicate their lives to improving the outcomes for man’s best friend and take projects. a look at the lighter side of the pet-owner relationship.
These short films are from independent films makers around the globe. A portion of ticket sales will benefit the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter.
Local sponsors are Pacific Paw, Pet Pals, Community Mobile Vet, Dr. Hannah Good, Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing and Santa Cruz Waves. n
Tickets are $15. Get tickets at https://www.adventurereelstv.com/film/ top-dog-film-festival-santa-cruz/
For more information visit https:// www.riotheatre.com/events-2/2020/9/12/
Lure of the North
“SqCWD Board” from page 8
Corrie Kates Retired Businessman
Avote for me to lead Soquel Creek Water District will ensure more transparent leadership to represent you. I have 32 years of experience in managing large municipal projects upwards of $100 million.
My governmental and private experiences make me the right choice. I have also managed and prepared municipal budgets and made cuts to budgets when there is a need ensure continuation of municipal services.
I believe in long range strategic planning and working with local agencies in collaboration to provide long-term affordable sustainability.
My experiences allowed me to facilitate and guide joint venture projects with local water purveyors including grant funded projects and State and Federal Agencies. Such projects include recycled, recharge, storage and water transportation top-dog-film-festival
I have prepared joint powers agreements with water Districts and other local agencies for emergency water services and rate re-structuring.
I believe in transparency and budgeting within your means and not spending funds that are not available. I can make a difference as your next Board of Director to guide the Soquel Creek Water District, in their decision-making. I can and will help them make the right choices while being mindful and listening to the ratepayers that support the District.
Maria Marsilio, 64
Human Resources Director katesandmarsilio.com hrmarsilio@netzero.com 831-688-0365
My goal, if I am elected to the Board, is to bring demonstrated leadership in building collaborative and productive relationships in order to find viable, research based, scientifically data driven, environmentally sound, cost effective solutions that have been tried and true to the District.
I will work hard to reduce waste and to listen to the needs of community members, business leaders, and farmers. There are a number of solutions that will satisfy our water requirements such as groundwater management, water transfers, aquifer recharge, rainwater harvesting systems, environmental protection, equitable water rates, and promote economic prosperity.
The water problems we face are complex and require a multi-faceted solution. I raised my 2 children in Aptos and am an active volunteer in the community. My Master’s Degree in Industrial Psychology from San Jose State University and over 20 years of senior management experience as well as my analytical abilities, conflict resolution skills, and consensus building approach has proven invaluable to finding solutions to a broad range of complex issues. n
COMMUNITY NEWS County Board of Education Area 6 Candidate Statement
Ed Acosta, 51
Agriculture Manager/Commissioner/Father www.electacosta.com ed@electacosta.com 831-228-2858
Vote for Ed Acosta for County School Board. Vote for Ed Acosta and expand Career Technical Training.
Vote for Ed Acosta and our Kids will get Real Jobs that make Real Money. Vote for Ed Acosta and bring back hands-on vocational trade school education. Vote for Ed Acosta and expand English/Spanish job opportunities for our students.
Ed Acosta is a Father of three children, all born and raised in the Pajaro Valley. Ed proudly serves his community as a City of Watsonville Planning Commissioner.
Ed Acosta is the Treasurer for Independence Square Board of Directors. A local non-profit organization dedicated to housing the Senior and Disabled.
Ed Acosta is a true Leader bringing an experienced and successful track-record of accomplishments in business: Certified background with multi-million dollar Berry Industry, Food Safety Officer, Audit John Kegebein, retired CEO
Stephen G. Rider, regulatory manager
“Judge” from page 11
These years of trial experience has taught me that listening and treating people with respect is vital in our system of justice. My commitment to honoring these values not only helps ensure I will be a fair and effective judge but has also led to endorsements from many people and groups who, as a lawyer, sat on the other side of the table from me in court.
I will work hard, listen carefully, generate new ideas and serve our entire community.
I have earned the respect, support and endorsement of numerous Santa Cruz County Superior Court Judges, Ed Acosta Dana Sales
Oversight and Analyst, Good Agriculture & Manufacturing Practices
For the past 28 years our Pajaro Valley community has been represented by the same voice. These School Bureaucrats often do not have to compete for your vote. It’s time for change!
I’m running for County Board of Education to give Voters a choice and to give our Students a better chance at a great education. Vote for Ed Acosta for County School Board. •••
Dana Sales
Real Estate Broker
Pajaro Valley Water Management Agency Candidates
No statement filed •••
Neither candidate filed a statement California Assemblymember Mark Stone, Santa Cruz County Sheriff Jim Hart, members of both the Santa Cruz County Public Defender and the Santa Cruz County District Attorney, the Santa Cruz County Deputy Sheriff’s Association, and the Santa Cruz County Women’s Democratic Club.
Santa Cruz is my community. My wife, Janet, and I raised our two daughters in Santa Cruz, where I coached local girls’ soccer teams for ten years.
I served on the Board of Directors of Familia Center, the Santa Cruz County Women Lawyers, and the Santa Cruz County Bar Association.
I would be honored to receive your vote. n
SPECIALIZING IN Residential Repaints & Custom Homes Homeowners Associations Property Managers
FALL SPECIAL If we paint your interior and/or exterior by September 30, 2020 we will buy the paint.
