Aptos Times: August 1, 2021 by Times Publishing Group, Inc.

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August 1, 2021 • Vol 30 No. 15

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Rise Together: Focus on Equity

Rise Together, a group of 17 Leaders of Color and a team from Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, announces a public launch of their efforts to support the vision and action needed to build a more just and equitable county. Full Story page 11

Tina Friend Heads to Coronado Full Story page 6

Olympian Zaferes Wins Bronze

By Jondi Gumz

er family cheered in Aptos as triathlete Katie Zaferes won a bronze medal at the 2021 Olympics in Tokyo. Zaferes, 32, finished the swimming-cycling-running event in 1:57.03, behind Flora Duffy, 33, who claimed

Bermuda’s first gold medal in 1:55.36, and Georgia TaylorBrown, 27, of Great Britain, who recovered after a flat tire to earn silver in 1.56.50. Notice the difference between silver and bronze: 13 seconds — in triathlon, seconds matter. ... continues on page 4

Long-Time Second Harvest CEO Retiring

On July 22, Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County announced CEO Willy ElliottMcCrea will retire next June. The board of directors has started the process to hire his successor and build on his legacy. Full Story page 9

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No. 15

Volume 30

Table of Contents

Cover Olympian Zaferes Wins Bronze, By Jondi Gumz 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 15 16 27 30

Community News Tina Friend Heads to Coronado as City Manager, By Jondi Gumz Jobs Available as Caltrans Begins 3-Year Litter Drive CZU Fire: Lessons Learned Visit SC County’s Maggie Ivy To Retire • Long-Time Second Harvest CEO Retiring First West Nile Death — San Luis Obispo: More than 25,000 Adult Mosquitos Captured Locally in 2019 • UC Tuition Hike Starts Fall 2022 • Seacliff Park Swag on Sale • New Hire at Visit Santa Cruz County • Staff of Life Reopens Hot Bar, Salad Bar • Santa Cruz County Jobs Rise Together: Focus on Equity Felton COVID-19 Outbreak: ‘Delta Variant Is No Joke’, By Jondi Gumz Vaccine Funding for Local Businesses, Organizations Ah Lavender! Friday Night Live: Developing Next-Gen Leaders Tree Survey Mystery Solved

Letter to the Editor 30 The Closure of Urgent Care in Scotts Valley

Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – Hercules, the Lion’s Skin & Two Full Moons, By Risa D’Angeles Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29

Featured Columnists 17 Recipe Box: California Succotash (with Tarragon), recipe by Poppy DeGarmo 20 National Water Quality Month: Your Water is Clean, Safe and High Quality, By Rebecca Gold Rubin 23 Push Ahead: Nurture Customer Connection Points, By Ron Kustek 24 Fire Season: Create Defensible Space Around Your Home, By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District 25 Ground Cover Works Like Mulch, By Tony Tomeo

SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 25 – Meet The Adorable Whiskers!

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COVER STORY Patrice Edwards Jondi Gumz

publisher

“Local Bronze” from page 1

editor

contributing writers Jondi Gumz, Risa D’Angeles, Poppy DeGarmo, Rebecca Gold Rubin, Ron Kustek, 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 media consultants Teri Huckobey, Brooke Valentine, Tara Carcamo office coordinator Cathe Race distribution Bill Pooley, James Hudson

ABOVE: Katie Zaferes blows a kiss to her husband Tommy at the finish line. • Photo Courtesy of Tommy Zaferes BELOW: Nancy Zaferes takes a selfie with family and friends in the background as the race is about to be broadcast. • Photo Credit: Nancy Zaferes

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 Soquel 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 Summer Festivals Official Program Guide, is owned by Patrice Edwards. Entire contents ©2021. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission 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 / August 1st 2021 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Zaferes placed 16th at the 2016 Rio Games, so this is her first medal. A graduate of Syracuse University, she is the daughter of parents who were athletes. Her father, Bill Hursey, introduced her to triathlon — on Father’s Day no less. He died unexpectedly at age 60 in April. Katie posted on Instagram what she learned from her dad — resilience, dedication to being better, doing things for others, and how he always had fun. She thanked her mom, saying, “Her strength is one that is enduringly gentle.” Aptos resident Nancy Zaferes is her mother-in-law. Katie married Tommy Zaferes, a sports photographer and semi-retired elite triathlete who attended Cabrillo College, in 2015. Nancy hosted an Olympic opening day party Friday at Aptos Knoll Mobilehome Park and a race day watch party on Monday. Tommy was in Tokyo as he was selected to cover the men’s, women’s and team relay. See his posts on Facebook and @tzaferes on Twitter. The couple lived in Santa Cruz before moving to North Carolina, where in January they bought their “dream home,” according to Katie’s Instagram post. The opening day party included a torch relay and games such as the bean bag toss, much to everyone’s enjoyment. On race day, Barbara Daddario, Tommy’s sister, came by before hosting her own watch party. Nancy and her husband George wore shirts saying “Team Katie Tokyo Olympics 2021” for good luck.

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COVER STORY Aptos Knolls residents and friends gathered in the clubhouse to watch the race. “Katie’s favorite thing to do after a race is go get ice cream, so that’s what we did!” Nancy said. A rainbow appeared during the race, which Nancy said was “hugely significant for Katie, and a sure sign that her Dad was watching,” so Rainbow Sherbet

and Cookies n Cream Ice Cream, Katie’s favorite, were the flavors of choice. Nancy and George ended their report this way, “We’re sooo excited and proud of Katie!” n ••• Cover Photo: The Zaferes family and friends celebrate opening ceremonies at home, including torch bearer, Norma Welty. • Photo Credit: Nancy Zaferes

Katie Zaferes is joined by her husband Tommy after the medal ceremony.

Photo Credit: Wagner Araujo

Photo Credit: Nancy Zaferes

Katie Zaferes’ in-laws (from right), George and Nancy, and their daughter Barbara Daddario, are ready to watch her race in the triathlon.

New Leadership. Renewed Focus on Excellence. At Watsonville Community Hospital, we are proud to welcome our new Chief Executive Officer, Steven Salyer. Steven is an accomplished and innovative healthcare executive with extensive experience running complex hospital operations. He has a strong track record of increasing patient, employee, and physician satisfaction; establishing cultures of excellence; recruiting new physicians; and improving quality. Prior to his career in healthcare, Steven served as a captain in the U.S. Marine Corps in peacetime and in combat support operations in Iraq.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Tina Friend Heads to Coronado as City Manager

By Jondi Gumz

cotts Valley City Manager Tina Friend has accepted a new job as city manager in Coronado in Southern California, which will mean changes for her husband, Second District County Supervisor Zach Friend, and their six-year-old son. She will start in September. “The pandemic helped solidify the importance of family,” she said. “While I will miss the Scotts Valley community, this career opportunity brings me close to our extended family where I can help care for our parents as they enter their golden years.” Friend, 44, heads to Coronado, a coastal city of 24,000 with a $61 million general fund budget and 249 full-time employees, after spending two years as city manager of Scotts Valley, population 12,000 with a $13.6 million general fund and 54 full-time employees. In 2020, she guided Scotts Valley through the COVID-19 pandemic, helping shuttered businesses to reopen, and during the CZU Complex Wildfire, which forced Scotts Valley to evacuate and closed businesses for a week. “Tina is an invaluable member of the Scotts Valley family and her leadership was critical to our City,” said Mayor Derek Timm. “She helped stabilize our City finances, navigate the myriad challenges of the pandemic and steward our City through evacuations during the fires.

Tina and Zach Friend enjoy the 2016 World’s Shortest Parade in Aptos with their son, Elliott. She set our City up for long-term success, and her contributions are significant and long-lasting...We are proud of all that she has accomplished here and excited to see what she will accomplish in the future.” As Tina Shull, she spent nine years as assistant city manager for the City of Santa Cruz, population 75,000 with a $103.6 million general fund and 903 employees, when

the city was recovering from the recession triggered by the housing market collapse. She started as a research analyst in 2005 when the economy was booming. She has a law degree from Santa Clara University School of Law, a master’s degree in public policy from Georgetown University and a bachelor’s degree in geology from the University of Idaho. Her appointment in Coronado was unanimous. The Coronado mayor cited her experience in coastal government and her service on local and regional commissions and boards on economic development, tourism, libraries, public safety and housing and homelessness. She will replace interim city manager Mark Ochenduszko, who filled in since Blair King resigned in April after 11 years to become city manager in Bainbridge Island in Washington State. Small Business Loans oronado is known for the grand Victorian Hotel del Coronado, which opened in 1888, and tourism is an essential part of the economy. “Coronado is a world class community and I feel very fortunate to be joining the City team,” Friend said in Coronado’s announcement.

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Jobs Available as Caltrans Begins 3-Year Litter Drive C lean CA is a new $1.1 billion effort over three years to remove trash from the roadways, funded by this year’s budget surplus. This initiative directs funds to cities and counties, and is expected to create about 10,000 jobs statewide. Some $296 million will be sent to local communities, which will be able to apply through a grants process for another $296 million. Caltrans District 5, which covers Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Monterey, San Benito and Santa Cruz counties, is in the process of recruiting two 10-person Clean California crews, which will dedicate all their time to picking up litter. One crew will report to Salinas and be responsible for Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey counties. The recruitment is live right now and crews should be in place by the end of September, according to a July 21 email from Caltrans public information officer Kevin Drabinski. The direct aid to cities and counties should begin to appear in three to six months. That process is still being planned as the trailer bills were just signed within the last two weeks by the governor, Drabinski said. He expects the grants process for funds to cities and counties will take about a year. The local grants process criteria should take six months followed by a three-month application period and a three-month review process. Local funds are to target local streets and public spaces. Santa Cruz County can expect to see the most immediate action through the currently scheduled twice a month stand down litter days, according to Drabinski. Caltrans maintenance crews will focus exclusively on roadway litter removal on the first and third Thursdays of every month in every one of the five counties in District 5.

What highways in Santa Cruz County are targeted? rabinski did not identify specific highways. He said all highways in Santa Cruz County that are considered high-litter generating will be targeted by the Clean California crew and the two litter pickup days per month by field maintenance personnel. Maintenance supervisors will prioritize locations of greatest need, he noted. How do people seeking work get into the program? pplications for the Caltrans Service Assistance Maintenance positions can be found at www.jobs.ca.gov

The jobs pay $2,932-$3,335 per month with medical, dental and retirement benefits plus promotional opportunities. Those interested in these positions can also discover more information about this initiative at CleanCalifornia.dot.ca.gov. The initial Caltrans announcement cited job opportunities for people experiencing homelessness, at-risk youth and those re-entering society following incarceration.

Is Clean CA needed because of homeless encampments by the state highways, such as Hwy 1 in Santa Cruz and Hwy 9 from Felton to Boulder Creek? he litter on our roadways comes from many sources and encampments of unsheltered individuals has been one of them, Drabinski said. He noted Clean California funds will not be used to displace individuals experiencing homelessness. “This is truly a statewide effort to change the paradigm to a shared responsibility to keep our roadways clean,” he said. “That is why it is fashioned as a partnership between the state and local communities. This is a broader effort to educate communities about the proper disposal of trash and the negative impact that littering brings to our environment and public health. We all share this state as our home and it is up to each of us to take pride and responsibility to help make it the beautiful California we know it can be.” As part of a statewide day of action July 7 to highlight the new program, maintenance workers, county officials and Adopt-A-Highway volunteers and cleared litter on several sections of central coast highways, including State Route 135 in Santa Maria, US 101 at 4th Street in Pismo Beach and US 101 in Greenfield. “The Clean California initiative confronts one of the most persistent challenges in the state — litter on our state highways and local roads,” said Caltrans Director Toks Omishakin. Monterey County District 3 Supervisor Chris Lopez and representatives from State Assemblyman Robert Rivas joined Caltrans Maintenance crews to pick up litter along southbound US 101 in Greenfield. “Our hard-working crews, local partners and volunteers were called to action … in this important effort to clean

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and beautify the Golden State,” added Caltrans District 5 Director Tim Gubbins. Clean California is designed to drive a cultural shift of shared responsibility for the cleanliness of roadways through campaigns that focus on properly throwing away trash and the impact littering has on natural resources, waterways, public safety Highway worker removes litter along Highway 135 in Santa Maria. and health. Plastic debris often finds its way into collected about 270,000 cubic yards of trash the ocean, where it can be mistaken for —enough to load 18,000 garbage trucks. food by sea creatures. Hypodermic needles Clean California aims to remove an addidiscarded by thoughtless users create tional 1.2 million cubic yards, or 21,000 tons, potential for injury — a skin puncture that of trash from state highways each year, the could allow transmission of hepatitis or equivalent of filling the Rose Bowl three times HIV. or enough bags to stretch from Los Angeles to In 2020, the pandemic year, Caltrans New York City, according to Caltrans. n

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COMMUNITY NEWS

CZU Fire: Lessons Learned

Available August 3-28

he Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History and the Santa Cruz Public Libraries present 10 programs about wildfires and lessons learned from the CZU Lightning Complex Fire in August 2020. Most will be online via Zoom; some are in person. All are free, but require registration. To register, visit bit.ly/SCPL-CZU. The CZU fire devastated the Santa Cruz/San Mateo mountain region, burned for 38 days, destroyed 1,490 buildings, mostly in Santa Cruz County, burned 86,509 acres, and caused one fatality. Aug. 3 — Amah Mutsun Fire Relationships: via Zoom at 6 p.m. How the Amah Mutsun use fire to restore landscapes in the Santa Cruz mountains and beyond. ••• Aug. 5 — Film “Not If, But When: Wildfire Solutions” at 6 p.m. Director/ producer team Radu Sava and Rebekah Hood-Sava will screen their documentary followed by Q&A. This film explores the ways we deal with wildfires in America, climate change impact, and integration of indigenous wildfire practices. Aug. 7 — Exploring the Burn Zone: Bonny Doon Ecological Reserve at 10 a.m. Walk through the Zone with Marisa Gomez, of the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History, and hunt for rare plants, explore impacts of fire on the landscape, and collect data for the CZU Lightning Complex and Community Science Project. Aug. 11 — Defending Your Home: Fire Prevention and Preparedness. 6 p.m. Central Fire District Fire Marshal Mike DeMars will explain best practices for fire safety around the home, fire response, and defensible space. Aug. 14 — Exploring the Burn Zone: Rancho Del Oso, 10 a.m. See the edges of Big Basin’s burn zone with State Park interpreter Richard Fletcher, learn about massive efforts to restore Rancho Del Oso and its Nature Center, and contribute to the CZU Science Project by uploading your observations to iNaturalist. Aug 16 — A Striking August: Lightning and Wildfires with Chris Giesige, 6 p.m. Online lecture by wildfire researcher and lightning scientist will explore conditions that made the August 2020 lightning events possible. Aug. 19 — Preparing for Emergencies with the American Red Cross, 6 p.m. How to pack your emergency kit, how to create

Photo Credit: Kevin Painchaud

a plan for you and your family, and what to do when wildfire comes. Aug. 24 — Learn about fire adapted native plants in the Santa Cruz Mountains with Fire and the Bonny Doon Ecological Reserve with Dr. Jodi McGraw, 6 p.m. Aug. 28 — Fire as Friend: Exploring Fire Ecology with Kids,10 a.m. for kids 5-8 and their caretakers, 12:30 p.m. for kids 9-12 and their caretakers, at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. Activities showing how fire can be helpful to humans, plants, and animal, practices of Santa Cruz’s Indigenous people, and fire safety tips. Parent/guardian must accompany child. n

COMMUNITY NEWS

Visit SC County’s Long-Time Second Maggie Ivy To Retire Harvest CEO Retiring A O With funding from the tourism fter 26 years, Maggie Ivy, CEO and executive vice president of Visit Santa assessment, the Santa Cruz County Visitors Cruz County, has announced she and Conference Council — as it was then known — changed its name, created a straplans to retire Nov. 12. Ivy, 58, of Aptos, told the 25-member tegic plan, launched a new website and rebranded with a new tagline, “Let’s Cruz.” Board of Directors in July. Ivy pushed for “shoulder season” “It is time for me to begin the next chapter of my life and to make way for new campaigns to increase visits by people within driving distance during leadership to guide and support non-summer months, fostered a our local tourism industry,” she stronger collaboration with Visit said. California, and developed longThe board will work on a term initiatives to promote Santa recruitment process. Cruz County overseas. Her leadership — establishing Statistics show international a countywide tourism marketing visitors to the county up from 8 district in 2010 with an assessment percent to 13 percent before the on hotel rooms and vacation rentals, Maggie Ivy pandemic. provided resources for promotional Ivy embraced expanding online, digital, programs and grew the budget for tourist and social media programs, and reports promotion by 500 percent. The assessment supported by the they, combined with traditional promotional lodging industry was recently renewed for channels, have made a significant, positive seven more years by elected city and county impact on the region’s economic vitality. She credited these successes to advoofficials, leaving Visit Santa Cruz County in a strong financial position, according to Visit cates who supported her. “It has been my great fortune to work Santa Cruz County. Careful oversight of resources by Board of Directors and staff has with hundreds of dedicated business leaders, elected officials and a plethora of talented ensured maintenance of a healthy reserve. Recovery is underway for the tourism staff,” she said. “I owe them all a debt of sector, which was heavily impacted locally, gratitude for their time, their commitment, nationally, and internationally because of and their loyalty to our tourism industry.” n orders to shelter-in-place to slow spread of ••• COVID-19. For information, visit santacruz.org.

“Friend” from page 9 In April 2020, a month after the pandemic shelter-in-place began, Coronado’s City Council created the “Lifeline Business Loan” program to provide loans up to $20,000 to small locally owned businesses generating sales tax and adversely impacted by COVID-19 to strengthen their ability to recover. The amount outstanding is about $300,000. Salary for Coronado’s city manager: Approximately $250,000, according to the post by the Ralph Andersen consulting firm. The job drew 65 candidates, and Friend was one of six invited to interview, according to the announcement from Coronado, resulting in two finalists. Family Balance riend comes from a military family and her father was stationed in Southern California. Her husband, Zach Friend, who was first elected to represent Aptos in 2012, is a native

of San Diego and lifelong fan of the Padres, an interest he’ll share with their 6-year-old son. Asked about the new post, Zach Friend responded by email, saying, “I am exceptionally proud and supportive of my remarkable wife. To be selected to manage another storied community while giving our son an opportunity to spend more time with his grandparents as they age just speaks to who she is as a person.” He added, “Many families have carved a path for us on how to strike a balance between service and family especially when distance and two professional careers are involved. My career isn’t more important than hers and I am committed to finding the balance in actively representing my district while also travelling regularly down there to ensure I am deeply present for Tina and our son.” In Coronado, the city manager is the administrative head of the municipal government under the direction and control of the City Council, responsible for all city operations. n

n July 22, Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County announced CEO Willy ElliottMcCrea will retire next June. The board of directors has started the process to hire his successor and build on his legacy. His retirement will coincide with the food bank’s 50th anniversary, and a big shindig is planned to celebrate both. Elliott-McCrea, 68, of Soquel, has been the Food Bank’s leader for more than 30 years, making many significant contributions during floods, fires and a global pandemic. After the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, Second Harvest was ground zero for disaster relief (epicenter was five miles from the warehouse) – scaling services sixfold for the first month and doubled after. Building a strong network of partners from every sector of the community, Second Harvest has consistently ranked in the top two percent of healthiest food banks in America, with more than 60% of food distributed being fresh fruits and vegetables. As founding president of California Association of Food Banks from 1995-98, Elliott-McCrea shaped the future of food banks across the state. Most recently, he led the Food Bank through COVID-19 and the devastating CZU fire. His experience led him to reach out to U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta as soon as shelter-in-place was ordered, prompting

Willy Elliott-McCrea

Congress and the Governor to deploy the National Guard across California food banks to keep services going. Since the pandemic began, Second Harvest has seen need for food double — and met that need. Second Harvest worked with not only the National Guard but also County Emergency Services, Twin Lakes Church, County Fairgrounds, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, local school districts and many others to provide fresh and healthy food to the community. As Santa Cruz County slowly recovers from the economic devastation of the pandemic and fires, the food bank is distributing 65% more food than before. Elliott-McCrea began his food banking career in 1978 as a warehouse manager and driver. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / August 1st 2021 / 9

COMMUNITY NEWS

First West Nile Death: San Luis Obispo

More than 25,000 Adult Mosquitos Captured Locally in 2019

n July 7, the California Department of Public Health announced the first confirmed death in California due to West Nile virus. The death occurred in San Luis Obispo County. “West Nile virus activity in the state is increasing, so I urge Californians to take every possible precaution to protect against mosquito bites,” said Dr. Tomás J. Aragón, director of the California Department of Public Health and state public health officer. West Nile virus is transmitted to humans and animals by the bite of an infected mosquito. As of July 9, West Nile virus. has been detected in 45 dead birds from 6 counties

and 177 mosquito samples from 13 counties. Hot temperatures have contributed to increasing numbers of mosquitoes and the increased risk of virus transmission to humans. So far this season, activity is within expected levels, according to the state. The risk of disease due to West Nile virus usually increases at this time of year and is highest throughout the summer and early fall. West Nile virus is influenced by many factors, including climate, the number and types of birds and mosquitoes in an area,

and the level of immunity in birds. The risk of serious illness to most people is low. However, some individuals — less than one percent — can develop serious neurologic illnesses such as encephalitis or meningitis. People 50 and older, and those with diabetes or hypertension have a higher chance of getting sick and are more likely to develop complications from West Nile virus infection. CDPH recommends that individuals protect against mosquito bites and West Nile virus with these strategies:

DEET — Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaradin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535 according to label instructions. Repellents keep the mosquitoes from biting you. Insect repellents should not be used on children under two months of age. DAWN AND DUSK — Mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus usually bite in the early morning and evening so it is important to wear proper clothing and repellent if outside during these times. Make suret your doors and windows have tightfitting screens to keep out mosquitoes. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.

was nominated for the President’s Circle Award with Marriott International. She previously was sales director with Hotel Paradox in Santa Cruz. She began her career as an intern in the hotel industry in Brazil. After earning her college degree, she studied in Switzerland, where she joined Marriott International. By 2011 she moved to the U.S., working for Visit Oakland as a sales manager. She joined Flavia Oliveira the Hotel Paradox in 2019. During the 2020 COVID pandemic, she became regional director, overseeing two Marriott brands and an independent property in three different Bay Area markets. Maggie Ivy, CEO and executive vice president of Visit Santa Cruz County, said of Oliveira, “She already has established relationships with local properties and has built an impressive amount of credibility with our local lodging industry. This will benefit our hotel partners as we move toward recovery in 2021.” ••• Staff of Life Reopens Hot Bar, Salad Bar n July 15, Staff of Life, the natural food market, announced reopening of the hot bar and salad bar self-service stations at both locations, 1266 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, and 906 East Lake Ave., Watsonville. These services had been closed due to the COVD-19 pandemic. Customers can build fresh salads with all types of ingredients including greens, tomatoes, cabbage, cheese, grilled chicken

or grilled tofu, mushrooms, cucumbers, olives and more. Hot bar choices include carnitas, chicken dishes, grilled and roasted vegetables, pasta, vegetarian entrees, mac and cheese, rice, beans, and mashed potatoes. And there is a rotating menu of hot soups to grab and go. The hot and salad bar in Santa Cruz is open for breakfast at 8 a.m, with lunch and dinner from11 a.m. to 7 pm. Watsonville salad bar hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with the hot bar open for lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. ••• Santa Cruz County Jobs Report posted July 16 June unemployment 6.9% Sector June 2021 Change from a year ago Leisure & hospitality 10,000 Up 800 Trade/Transportation/ 16,100 Up 800 Utilities Manufacturing 7,200 Up 500 Other services 4,900 Up 500 Private education & Health 17,100 Up 400 Professional & 10,500 Up 200 Business Services Construction 4,500 No change Financial 3,100 No change Information 500 No change Government 19,400 Down 300 Nonfarm 92,400 Up 2,900 Farm 12,100 Up 1,400 Total 105,400 Up 4,300 Labor Force 134,300 No change Employed 125,100 Up 6% Unemployed 9,200 Down 44% Count is on the 12th of the month. Sources: California Employment Development Department n

“West Nile Virus” page 17

COMMUNITY BRIEFS UC Tuition Hike Starts Fall 2022 n July 22, the University of California Board of Regents approved a fiveyear tuition hike that will take effect for incoming students in fall 2022. The vote was 17-5. Each incoming undergraduate class will be charged a higher rate every year based on inflation, then keeps it flat for six years. A previous version would have kept those increases going forever. Currently California residents pay $11,442 per year for tuition, with mandatory and campus fees bringing the total to just over $14,000. The tuition increase is projected to be $540. Annual tuition hikes are to be capped at 5 percent. The policy does not apply to nonresident students from other states or international students who pay nearly $44,000 a year. All graduate students will be affected by the tuition hike, not just incoming students. UC officials projected a $694 million shortfall by 2026-2027 unless tuition were increased. According to UC, 55 percent of UC undergrads — from low- and middleincome families — have their tuition and fees fully covered by state, federal and university financial aid. A third of the revenue from higher tuition is to go into financial, according to UC staff. After five years, the Regents will have to re-authorize tuition hikes. The state provided 80 percent of the funds for the UC system in the 1980s. Last year it was 41 percent, with tuition and fees providing 38 percent.

••• Seacliff Park Swag on Sale ark your calendar for a flash sale on the iconic “That’s My Park” Seacliff apparel, stickers, hats, cards and more, Friday and Saturday, July 30 and 31. Customers can get 20% off by shopping online and at the Seacliff ParkStore, located at Seacliff State Beach on State Park Drive in Aptos. The sale is part of the year-long celebration marking 15 years since the beloved images of Natural Bridges, The Forest of Nisene Marks, Seacliff, Wilder Ranch debuted. Created by awardwinning artist Michael Schwab, the local park images evoke the 1930s WPA era, when Californians first voted to support State Parks. Schwab, of San Anselmo, created the iconic images seen on T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, hoodies, baseball caps, coffee mugs, magnets, lapel pins, posters, patches and stickers.

Seacliff image by artist Michael Schwab ••• New Hire at Visit Santa Cruz County lavia Oliveira is the new director of sales and marketing at Visit Santa Cruz County, responsible for sales in digital promotions, conferences, meetings, weddings, and co-op opportunities for local tourismrelated businesses. In 2019, she earned the 40 Under 40 Award from ConnectMeetings. In 2015, she

10 / August 1st 2021 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

COMMUNITY NEWS

Rise Together: Focus on Equity R ise Together, a group of 17 Leaders of Color and a team from Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, gathered July 23 to push their vision and action needed to build a more just and equitable county into the community. Upwards of 400 people attended the event outside the foundation office in Aptos, celebrating Esperanza Del Valle, started by teachers 40 years ago, Estrellas de Esperanza, a dance group created by Ruby Vasquez in 2007, Senderos, founded in 2001 by Oaxacan sisters Fe Silva-Robles and Dr. Nereida Robles, and Tannery World Dance & Cultural Center, founded by Cat Willis 10 years ago, enjoying Venezuelan and Mexican food from Areperia831 and Taqueria Agave, and looking forward to the work ahead. The group was convened in June of 2020 by the Community Foundation amidst national uprisings after the death of George Floyd and as COVID-19 reaffirmed stark health, economic, and social inequities for communities of color. The purpose of Rise Together “is to build awareness, trust, and investment in the work led by, for, and in support of People

Ashly N. Adams

Brenda Griffin

Carmin Powell, M.D.

Cat Willis

Consuelo Alba

DeAndre James

Dr. Nereida Robles Vasquez

Erica Padilla-Chavez

Fe Silva-Robles

Gina Castañeda

Helen Aldana

Jacob Martinez

Jenny Kurzweil

Jorge Savala

Justin Cummings, PhD

Keisha Browder

Kevin Heuer

MariaElena De La Garza

Ruby Vasquez

Stacey Marie Garcia

Susan True

of Color in Santa Cruz County. Through our individual and collective stories and efforts, we give voice to our experiences and propel actions and funding that will

change existing systems of inequity and build a county where everyone can thrive.” The Rise Together coalition developed its purpose and goals collaboratively and

determined a grant-making process, then granted $423,000 for efforts working to: “Rise Together” page 13

Healthy hearts love longer. At Dignity Health – Dominican Hospital, we understand that your heart doesn’t just beat for you. It’s our mission to help you and your family access comprehensive and safe care here in Santa Cruz—and receive it from doctors who excel at cardiology and humankindness. Because your heart should be full of love, not worry. Don’t delay the important care you need. Learn more and find a cardiologist near you at DignityHealth.org/DominicanHearts.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / August 1st 2021 / 11

COMMUNITY NEWS

Felton COVID-19 Outbreak: ‘Delta Variant Is No Joke’

By Jondi Gumz

elton Music Hall reported an outbreak of COVID-19 after Grateful Shred of Los Angeles gave a July 18 indoor concert attended by 291 people, and postponed upcoming shows with Steely Dan and Anthony Arya. “What started out as one person with symptoms has turned into a couple of confirmed cases,” the hall posted on Facebook. “Nearly all the band and crew have also tested positive and are at home recovering with their families…Apparently the vaccine does not prevent transmission. But fortunately it does seem to really help in reducing sickness and preventing hospitalization.” The hall, which is owned by Thomas Cussins, reported all employees will be required to provide a negative PCR test and “when we come back, masks will be required for all staff and patrons … This Delta variant is no joke.”

Active COVID cases, which had fallen to 40 in June in Santa Cruz County, now

12 / August 1st 2021 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

stand at 196. Hospitalizations, which were zero, are up to five, with three people in intensive care. On July 27, Gov. Newsom said state employees and health care workers must show proof of vaccination as of Aug. 9 or be tested weekly as the Delta variant, which spreads more easily, comprises 80% of the California’s COVID cases. Vaccination proof is being required for students, faculty and staff at Cabrillo College and community colleges statewide, CSU Monterey Bay and all CSU campuses, and UC Santa Cruz and all UC campuses. Exemptions can be requested for medical or religious reasons. Health officers in Santa Cruz, Monterey, Napa, and San Benito counties recommended indoor masking in public places on July 19 and urged businesses to

adopt universal masking for customers indoors to better protect employees and customers. On July 20, the California Department of Public Health promised to work with 480 community organizations to boost demand for COVID vaccinations. “COVID-19 vaccines are free, safe, and our best tool in stopping the spread and mutation of variants,” said Dr. Tomás J. Aragón, CDPH Director and state public health officer. On July 27, federal health officials recommended everyone regardless of vaccination status wear masks indoors to slow the spread of Delta COVID-19 cases. On July 28, state health officials recommended universal masking in public settings — groceries, retail stores, theaters and family entertainment centers — a huge pivot from June 15 when cases in the 18-month pandemic were at a low point. Impact on Education abrillo expects 8,000 students when fall classes begin Aug. 23. Enrollment dropped 18% during the pandemic, “tragic to watch,” Cabrillo Superintendent/ President Matt Wetstein said during a July 28 Zoom webinar on education & COVID hosted by Casey Beyer of the Santa Cruz Chamber of Commerce. The students not enrolling are firstgeneration, poor, largely Latino students, which Wetstein finds troubling. It’s a trend in community colleges nationwide, with the average decline 21 percent, he pointed out.

“COVID Delta Variant” page 15

“Dependable Service, Affordable Quality”

“Rise Together” from page 11 • Increase upward economic mobility • Celebrate and preserve People of Color’s stories and culture • Increase equity and anti-racist policy • Deliver essential services and improve well-being for People of Color to prosper • Continuously give and grow sustained funding for communities of color. Consuelo Alba, Watsonville Film Festival co-founder and Rise Together member, was proud to receive a grant. This year, because of the pandemic, the 9th annual film festival — always limited by venue capacity — moved online, reaching people countywide, getting 9,279 views. “Voices of communities and leaders of color have traditionally been invisible in the structure of philanthropy and jurisdictional funding,” said Maria Elena de la Garza, executive director of Community Action Board and a Rise Together member. “The Community Foundation helped us create a safe and brave space to talk about how racism — visible and invisible — has impacted us personally, in our communities, and in our work.” Community Foundation CEO Susan True said, “I knew we needed to do more. We can’t accelerate solutions if the people most harmed by our county’s most pressing problems are not trusted and welcomed to create the answers. The people most affected by injustice need to be the ones driving the solutions that will work best for them.” Jacob Martinez, founder/CEO of Digital NEST, said, “The heart of this work is led by People of Color that have the expertise to move this work forward. That has not been done, locally, ever.” Willis, executive director of the Tannery World Dance and Cultural Center and Rise Together member, told Aptos Times, “The investing model is the most important thing… It’s about the longevity of our community.” Rise Together members include: Ashlyn N. Adams; Brenda Griffin; Carmin Powell, M.D.; Cat Willis; Consuelo Alba; Photos Credit: Jondi Gumz

Clockwise from right: Rise Together launch attracts a crowd • Vrinda Quintero of Areperia831 cooks Venezuelan food at the event. • Watsonville Campesino Caravan thanks essential workers.

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Consuelo Alba, co-founder, Watsonville Film Festival

DeAndre’ James; Erica Padilla-Chavez; Fe Silva-Robles; Gina Castañeda; Helen Aldana; Jacob Martinez; Jenny Kurzweil; Jorge Savala; Justin Cummings, PhD; Keisha Browder; Kevin Heuer; MariaElena De La Garza; Dr. Nereida Robles Vasquez; Ruby Vasquez; Stacey Marie Garcia; and Susan True. The 23 founding organizations are: Azteca Youth Soccer Academy, Black Health Matters, Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, Community Health Trust of Pajaro Valley, Communities Organized for Relational Power in Action, Diversity Center Santa Cruz County, California Film and Cultural Center, Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County, DigitalNEST. Esperanza del Valle, Estrellas de Esperanza, NAACP Santa Cruz, Pajaro Valley School District, Pajaro Valley Prevention and Student Assistance, Tannery World Dance and Cultural Center, Santa Cruz City Schools, Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History, Senderos, United Way of Santa Cruz County, Watsonville Campesino Appreciation Caravan, Watsonville Film Fest, Westside Video, and UC Santa Cruz CITRIS Initiative for Drone Education. n ••• Learn more at: https://www.risetogetherscc.org/ & follow on social media using the hashtag #RiseTogetherSCC. Portraits Credit: Devi Pride Photography

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Vaccine Funding for Local Businesses, Organizations

o further enlist the community’s help in ending the COVID-19 pandemic, Santa Cruz County Public Health is partnering with Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County to provide funding and support to local businesses and organizations interested in providing COVID-19 vaccines and vaccine information to their staff and the community. Funding is available to businesses and organizations for vaccine education and outreach, enrollment of priority groups for vaccine appointments, to support the establishment of pop-up vaccination clinics or provide incentives for those getting vaccinated. Incentives may include benefits such as gift cards, food, prizes or other giveaways. Funding may be used to

“COVID Delta Variant” from page 12 Yet applications to UCSC were up 11 percent, and CSU Monterey Bay projects stable enrollment, fewer freshman but more transfers. CSU campuses had been waiting for full approval of vaccines by the Food and Drug Administration, which has granted emergency use, but after a federal judge upheld Indiana University’s vaccine mandate, the CSU chancellor on July 27 announced a vaccine mandate, citing the Delta variant. “Receiving a COVID vaccine continues to be the best way to mitigate the spread of the virus,” said CSU Chancellor Joseph Castro in the announcement. CSU Monterey Bay, which will have 50% face-to-face classes, 40% virtual and 10% hybrid, already has a vaccine registration system, President Eduardo Ochoa said. UCSC, which expects 18,500 students including 9,300 living on campus, starts later -- on Sept. 18 -- and can learn from others, Chancellor Cindy Larive said. She noted the campus policy for masking indoors and “zero person-toperson transmission on campus” with “most cases in the community.” Sequencing to identify variants at the Colligan diagnostic lab on campus is “better than contact tracing” and “important to understanding community spread,” Larive said. Asked about vaccination percentages, Cabrillo’s Wetstein said, “About 50%. We’re finding lots of reluctance.” He estimated 50% of students 18 to 21 are vaccinated. “We’re sending a message the mandate is there – it’s easy to upload (your certificate). We hope those students get the message. It is a hard lift. It has plateaued.” Ochoa said “95% of those registered have vaccinated.”

offset any outstanding expenses related to providing vaccination services and information. “We are hoping to work with trusted community partners to help reach those who have had barriers in getting vaccinated,” said Jennifer Herrera, assistant director of the county Health Services Agency. Interested organizations can fill out the Vaccine Program Interest Form at https://tinyurl.com/ scc-biz-vaccine-funding The COVID-19 Vaccine Team will respond within the week. Questions can be directed to HSAC19VaccineClinics@ santacruzcounty.us. Preference will be given to proposals intended to serve those underserved by current vaccination outreach efforts.

Larive said she did not have good data. Reason for Spread n July 22, at a rare press conference outdoors, public and private sector health leaders in Santa Cruz County urged people to get vaccinated to avoid a hospital stay. The reason is the Delta variant spreads more easily. “Everyone who is currently in the hospital in Santa Cruz County is unvaccinated,” said Santa Cruz County Health Officer Dr. Gail Newel. “The pandemic is not over.” Dr. Katherine Martin, a 2016 medical school graduate with Sutter Health in Watsonville, made a plea to millennials under 30, noting this age group tends to gather in groups, which increases risk of spreading, and has the lowest vaccination rate. “Even if you never develop symptoms from Covid-19, you can pass it to others,” she said. A UC San Francisco study of 5,000 young adults 18 to 24, who are more likely to spread the virus, reported in July they are concerned about possible side effects. A study out of China referenced by The New York Times found viral loads in Delta cases 1,000 times higher than the alpha or beta variants. Tracking professional athletes has found players who test positive carry very high amounts of virus for seven to 10 days compared to two or three days of the initial virus. The Times cited two Delta spread situations. One was a bachelorette party where a dozen vaccinated but unmasked attendees went to downtown bars in Oklahoma City. Afterward, 17 guests at the July 10 wedding reported positive tests and mild symptoms.

“COVID Update” page 18

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Ah Lavender! T rent and Linda McNair, who own Noble Harvest Lavender Farm in Aptos, are enjoying a very productive year with a plant that brings sheer delight to many. Their lavender field is in its fourth season. They shared this report with CapitolaSoquel Times: “The entire field is an English ‘Grosso’ lavender, (Lavandula x intermedia ‘Grosso’) which is a cross between a traditional English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and a Portuguese lavender known as spike or broadleaf lavender (Lavandula latifolia). It’s arguably the most fragrant and with the highest oil content of other lavender varieties. “We grow organically and with little or no watering needed since they are well established. “We also do not feed any nutrient to our lavender, which gives the foliage its slightly yellow tint, but the stress of this mild neglect seems to create an even stronger scent, as well as higher oil content when we extract our lavender oil. We open our gates for 2-3 weekends a year so that the community can enjoy a French countryside experience without the airfare. Thanks to the Facebook group Aptosia, our location has gained immense popularity.” This farm has chickens on the premises. Noble Harvest Lavender Farm is at 1975 Cox Road, Aptos. To get the harvest

ABOVE: Lavender, famously grown in Provence, France, is grown in Day Valley, Aptos. RIGHT: Visitors at Noble Harvest Lavender Farm must arrive during the very short harvest season in July.

The “throne” in Noble Harvest’s field of lavender. and sale date information, follow the farm on Facebook. Sadly, the harvest is over. “We dry all our lavender and sell it in bundles,” Trent McNair told the CapitolaSoquel Times. So he harvests earlier than others might. In the future, he might consider creating lavender oil, but not this year. The location, he said, is very good for farming – “great microclimate, great soils.” He and his wife had an organic farm there before this. Day Valley has a long history of orchards, then eggs, with the Glaum Egg Ranch still in operation. The McNairs are not the only ones growing lavender in the neighborhood. So is Eric Smith, at 779 Day Valley Road, Aptos, who has been offering U-pick or pre-picked bundles on the weekend. “Before you know it, Day Valley will be the Napa Valley of lavender,” the McNairs posted on Facebook. n ••• Photos courtesy of Noble Harvest Lavender Farm

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ugust is Wellness Month — a perfect time to think about cooking healthy and delicious. Our first recipe comes from chef-photographer Poppy DeGarmo. She graduated from Tante Marie’s Cooking School in San Francisco in 1993, interned at French restaurant La Folie, became a sous-chef at George Lucas’ Skywalker Ranch, joined Bon Appetit Magazine, and cooked for “Nash Bridges” TV show cast & crew on Treasure Island. She lives in the Santa Cruz Mountains and has volunteered seven years at Grey Bears, teaching cooking. She uses local seasonal vegetables for personal and planetary health reasons. Her website is www.poppydegarmo.com “I call this dish California Succotash because I add more than the traditional lima beans and corn,” she said. “I replace lima beans with edamame, for extra protein and fiber. Squash and corn are in season as well as bell peppers. And fresh tarragon adds the extra touch and taste that is unusual and delicious.” ••• Ingredients 1 glug of olive oil 1 bag frozen edamame 3 ears of fresh corn, cut off the cob 2 bell peppers, diced 3 small squash, diced

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a bunch of tarragon salt + pepper a few splashes of water ••• Directions Add a bit of olive oil to a frying pan Add edamame, corn, peppers, and squash (you can add any other chopped vegetable or cherry tomatoes) Add a little water so that the veggies steam a bit, on low heat, but don’t cook too long. You want the peppers and corn to have a little crispness. Add the chopped tarragon, salt, and pepper. Delicious! n

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Share A Recipe!

o you have a recipe that is a family favorite? Or maybe one from your childhood you would like to share? The Capitola-Soquel Times will be publishing one recipe each issue from a community member. Feel free to add a little history to the recipe if you want (approximately 75 words). Every issue we will randomly choose a recipe to publish. Find your favorite and send it to cathe@cyber-times.com today!

“West Nile Virus” from page 10 DRAIN — Mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water. Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property by emptying flower pots, old car tires, buckets, and other containers. If you know of a swimming pool that is not being properly maintained, contact your local mosquito and vector control agency. Santa Cruz County Mosquito Abatement and Vector Control can be reached at 831-454-2590. The agency has 632 requests for service in 2019, and more than 25,000 adult mosquitos were captured using 850 carbon dioxide-baited traps. For the 2019 annual report, see http://www.agdept.com/Agricultural Commissioner/MosquitoAbatementVector Control.aspx

California’s West Nile virus website includes the latest information. Report dead birds on the website or by calling tollfree 1-877-WNV-BIRD (968-2473). n ••• Photos courtesy of Santa Cruz County Mosquito Abatement and Vector Control

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / August 1st 2021 / 17

“COVID Update” from page 15 The other was July 4 in Massachusetts: 256 cases — two-thirds vaccinated and 66 in other states — were tracked back to Provincetown, where a reported 60,000 unmasked people celebrated at bars and house parties. Since June, the number of recoveries in Santa Cruz County has increased from 15,975 to 16,129 and fully vaccinated numbers from 144,000 to 155,600, with 178,600 fully vaccinated. This means 56.8% of the population is fully vaccinated and 65% partly vaccinated. President Biden wanted 70 percent by 4th of July. Hospital Impacts n July 22, Dr. Nanette Mickiewicz, CEO at Dignity Health Dominican Hospital, said patients can choose their vaccine, Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson. “We are accommodating everyone without charge,” she said. “This is too important.” She said the hospital has seen an uptick in COVID patients. “They are unvaccinated,” she said. By the time they get admitted, it’s too late to give the vaccine to impact their outcome, she explained. “The doctors are tired, the nurses are tired,” said Steven Salyer, CEO at Watsonville Community Hospital, noting hospital workers have left their profession because of the pandemic, straining the system. “We need the support of the community to help our frontline workers.” Dr. Cristina Gamboa, an obstetrician at Salud Para La Gente in Watsonville, encouraged family members of a pregnant woman get vaccinated to protect her. About half the county’s COVID cases have been in Watsonville. Here are the percentages of fully vaccinated people by ZIP code: Aptos: 74% Ben Lomond: 63% Boulder Creek: 65% Capitola: 90% Davenport: 76% Freedom: 66% Felton: 84% Santa Cruz (95062): 76% Scotts Valley: 79% Soquel: 79% Watsonville: 77% Hesitancy? vaccination gap exists locally, with a smaller percentage of people in their 20s and 30s getting the vaccine compared to those 40 and older. Health officials have coined the term “vaccine hesitancy” to describe people choosing not to get the vaccine. Some are concerned about long-term side effects, and since the vaccines were created and tested in a year, those results are not available yet. Some may have jobs that do not allow time off, or they may be mothers at home caring for young children. Parts of Aptos and Watsonville have no Internet, so signing up for a shot online

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is impossible — something county health officials are addressing with pop-up clinics where no appointment is needed. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports an increased number of deaths reported after a COVID-19 vaccination. Between Dec. 14, 2020, through July 19, 2021, the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) received 6,207 reports of death among people who received a COVID-19 vaccine. The CDC’s website says, “Reports of adverse events to VAERS following vaccination, including deaths, do not necessarily mean that a vaccine caused a health problem.” This is because the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which granted emergency use of the COVID vaccines, requires healthcare providers to report any death after a COVID-19 vaccination to VAERS, even if it’s unclear whether the vaccine was the cause. A review of clinical information, including death certificates, autopsy, and medical records, has not established a causal link to COVID-19 vaccines, according to the CDC. Fortunately the number of fatalities in Santa Cruz County, 207, has not budged, since June. Pop-Up Clinics Aug. 7 and Aug. 21: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Liberty Bank in Boulder Creek. Pfizer second doses and Johnson & Johnson, with a gift card reward promised. Aug. 7: El Pajaro Community Devclopment Corp. in Watsonville, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pfizer second dose and Johnson & Johnson. Aug. 11: Watsonville YMCA, 5:30 p.m. Pfizer second dose and Johnson & Johnson. Aug. 13: Museum of Art & History, 705 Front St., Santa Cruz, noon to 4 p.m. Pfizer second dose and Johnson & Johnson. Aug. 21: Barrios Unidos, 1817 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, Pfizer first dose and Johnson & Johnson, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. ~~~ On June 15, the state reopened for business after crimping life for more than a year to knock out the COVID-19 pandemic, which has affected 3,822,551 and taken 63,800 lives statewide. There is no approved vaccine for younger children 12 and under yet, but there is little evidence of spread by young school-age children. Call 2-1-1 to find a vaccination site or see santacruzhealth.org For COVID data, see: https://covid. cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#county-view. Job Rebound ith the June 15 reopening, the tourism and ag economy in Santa Cruz County rebounded, adding 2,200 jobs in ag, and 600 in food service and hotels between mid-May and mid-June, boosting the total jobs in the county to 105,400. Still, 9,200 people are jobless. June unemployment was 6.9% down from 12.2% a year ago. Indeed.com, the job site, reports 130 jobs available in Aptos, including Persephone restaurant.

Cabrillo, where the governing board voted in May to reinstate football, posted a full-time job for athletics/kinesiology instructor-head football coach, starting pay of $57,000. For jobs paying $35 an hour in Aptos, try California Farm Link, Seascape Beach Resort, and Trident Society. Indeed.com reports Scotts Valley has 80 jobs paying $35 an hour, including Steeped Coffee, Warmboard (formerly in Aptos), UC Santa Cruz, and the city of Scotts Valley, oiffering $6,987 monthly for an entry-level a police officer. In Santa Cruz, McDonald’s on Ocean St. is offering $15 an hour; Continental Inn is hiring for all positions and offering a $250 bonus. The Toll eaths from COVID-19 in Santa Cruz County have leveled off at 207, with 50 percent of deaths at nursing homes and assisted living facilities, a percentage that was higher early in the pandemic. Locally, 79 percent of those who died were age 70 or older and 78 percent had other health conditions. n ••• County COVID Deaths: 207 As of July 28 Age 90 and up: 56 • 80 to 89: 63 • 70 to 79: 44 60 to 69: 27 • 50 to 59: 5 • 40 to 49: 7 30 to 39: 5 Race/Ethnicity White: 115 • Latinx: 75 • Asian: 15 Black: 1 • Amer. Indian/Alaskan Native: 1

Underlying Conditions Yes: 161 • No: 46 Gender Male: 103 • Female: 104 Skilled Nursing/Residential Care Santa Cruz Post Acute: 20 Watsonville Post Acute: 18 Pacific Coast Manor: 14 Hearts & Hands Post Acute: 8 Sunshine Villa: 7 • Aegis: 4 Maple House 1: 4 • Valley Convalescent: 4 Watsonville Nursing Center: 4 Montecito Manor: 3 • De Un Amor: 2 Dominican Oaks: 2 • Driftwood: 2 Hanover House: 2 • Maple House II: 2 Rachelle’s Home 1: 2 • La Posada: 1 Paradise Villa: 1 • Rachelle’s Home II: 1 Valley Haven: 1 • Westwind: 1 Total: 103 Not at a facility: 104 COVID Cases by Town Aptos: 851 • Ben Lomond: 128 Boulder Creek: 162 • Capitola: 476 Felton: 165 • Freedom: 1,007 Santa Cruz: 4,126 • Scotts Valley: 467 Soquel: 372 • Watsonville: 8,217 Unincorporated: 273 Under investigation: 288 Total: 16,532 Source: Santa Cruz County Public Health ••• Editor’s Note: Would you like to share your family’s COVID-19 story? Email Jondi Gumz at info@cyber-times.com or call 831688-7549 x17.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / August 1st 2021 / 19

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National Water Quality Month:

Your Water is Clean, Safe and High Quality

very August is National Water Quality Month, and it’s a great opportunity to remind ourselves of how important

By Rebecca Gold Rubin

clean, high-quality water is every day, to every person, to our environment and wildlife, and to our entire planet.

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Especially in a drought, we must remember to protect the quality of our drinking water, our lakes and waterways, and our oceans. Ensuring water quality is at the very core of the District’s everyday work. We are focused on providing safe, high-quality water to meet our community’s present and future needs. All of the water we supply to our customers is from the Santa Cruz Mid-County Groundwater Basin, and we regularly test that water from each of our groundwater wells to ensure it is clean and safe. In fact, we test for over 140 possible contaminants, and then report the results to the community in our annual Water Quality Report (you can see it online at soquelcreekwater.org).

Any contaminants that may be found are removed or reduced to safe levels through our treatment process, in compliance with State and Federal Drinking Water Standards, before water is pumped into the distribution system. We’re proud to report that the water delivered to you meets or exceeds all of those standards. And, we are committed to maintaining those high standards, as water quality regulations continue to evolve and become even more stringent. You can read our 2020 Water Quality Report at soquelcreekwater.org/210/ Water-Quality-Report. “Clean Water” page 26

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Push Ahead: Nurture Customer Connection Points

ven with today’s Delta variant, now is not what is offered, then you’re going to eventually lose that customer. the time to put your business “on hold.” Do you hold weekly or bi-weekly Yes, those who are refusing to use logic or believe facts are causing our area’s employee meetings to answer all questions, return to masks and social distancing plus make operational improvements and listen influencing many to stay at home once again. to employee feedback? Are your employees If you’re hoping for a quick return to normal, feeling like you’re investing in them by prokeep in mind hope is not a strategy, and today viding sales and/or customer service training, is the time to establish a which is readily available new connection with every from the many paid business Please don’t customer. consultants or for free from increase your prices the Small Business DevelOne of the more overlooked areas of business is opment Center in Aptos? without increasing the devotion to nurturing the And don’t overlook employee pay the full range of Customer Conthe Employee Satisfaction same percentage. ‘formula’ which is the result nection Points. of paying attention to your When a potential new customer is considering your business, how employees + regular training of employees + do they find out about you? If they start with properly paying your employees. Many businesses in town are now being a basic online search, is your Google business listing up to date with your full hours, menu, perceived as “extremely greedy” by raising website link, specials, services provided and prices since May for every local or tourist to pay, and then falsely claiming ‘inflation’ as current photos of what you sell? Is your Yelp listing updated, whether you the only cause! Inflation doesn’t make you pay Yelp or not? (because customers do use raise the price from $7.25 to $9.75 in 30 days Yelp, regardless of whether business owners for your bacon & egg croissant (we all know that, bakery)! like Yelp). I’ve been a business owner and fully Are your additional listings up to date on directories such as TripAdvisor, SantaCruz. understand all the financial pressures on a com, ThinkLocalSantaCruz.org, Yellowpages. business, especially when many of us have been used to “easy money” from customers com, etc.? Is your website completely up to date with paying our annual price increases that fund our your hours, menu, specials, services provided profits, personal needs and lifestyles. But please realize that we business owners and current photos? Did you finally include a Chat function can’t make up for lost profits from 2020 by on your website, which will actually have a price-gouging customers in 2021. And don’t think anyone is fooled by your human respond to any inquiries from customers during business hours? Did you invest extra 4% added to customer bills for “medical in a Chat service that provides after-hours costs” when that should be covered by the help, or at least captures a customer inquiry for increased prices you’re charging for lesser amounts which are but a shadow of their follow-up the next day? Did you hire enough people so your former portions. Paying meticulous attention to every phone is always answered by a person — not a recording but a helpful human who knows Customer Connection Point is critical, espeeverything you sell and don’t sell, your hours, cially now. your specialties, etc? Please, don’t keep cutting your operating Does the person answering your phone hours or what customers used to love prebook a time with every person who calls, or pandemic (such as being open on Mondays take notes and the phone number to call back a & Tuesdays, day and early evening hours). person who is inquiring about something for a Please don’t increase your prices without follow-up call? increasing employee pay the same percentage. Every phone call is a potential sale. Please keep in mind customers are often your What about training? neighbors and fellow community members. Your employees are your most important And remember tourists are not expendable Customer Connection point. When customers one-time customers who will pay anything on are met with disinterested employees who vacation without complaining. don’t make eye contact or who don’t know So now is not the time to pull back, but

By Ron Kustek

to push ahead. If your competition is failing at their Customer Connection Points, then you have the opportunity to invest some of your prior- year’s profits into this year’s focus on solidifying your position as one of our great local businesses! n ••• Ron Kustek is a former senior marketing executive at The Cola-Cola Co., and entrepreneur

who is currently teaching business at Cabrillo College. Contact him at RoKustek@Cabrillo.edu

Legendary Athletes

ACROSS

1. *Baseball’s “The Say Hey Kid” 5. TV tube in days of yore 8. Proof of age, pl. 11. Medicinal succulent 12. Toward shelter, nautically 13. White heron 15. Poet ____ Angelou 16. Where a bib is tied 17. Taste like grapes 18. *First African American to play in MLB 20. Chap or fella 21. Do like Etna 22. Auction set 23. Property defacer

26. Italian vermouth brand 30. 2nd largest bird in world 31. Informal wear 34. “The Man Who ____ Too Much” 35. Relating to Scandinavia 37. Chicken ____ ____ king 38. Nearsited one 39. Bear in the sky 40. The largest Asian antelope 42. *Dolphin great ____ Marino 43. Reusable painting pattern 45. Stands out 47. Cotillion V.I.P. 48. Deli item 50. Cain’s brother 52. *a.k.a. The Great Bambino

55. Oyster gem 56. Dwarf buffalo 57. Algonquian people 59. Body trunk 60. Hay spot 61. *”Battle of the Sexes” champion 62. A in FANBOYS 63. Altitude, for short 64. “Comme ci, comme ça”

DOWN

1. Mom in Scotland 2. Wing-shaped 3. Walk-the-dog toy 4. Bottom of the ocean 5. Fastener 6. Move a plant 7. *Pele or Bob Feller when they debuted 8. Armenia’s neighbor 9. Cabinet div. 10. Dirty dwelling

12. Declares invalid 13. Encourage, two words 14. *NHL’s “The Great One” 19. Very angry 22. Type of English course, for short 23. Where women are from? 24. “To death” in France 25. Florence Nightingale, e.g. 26. Mountain goat terrain 27. Opposite of cathode 28. Himalayan country 29. *Track and field star of 1936 Olympics 32. Frozen rain 33. “____ at ease” 36. *He simultaneously played in MLB and NFL 38. Ginger beer in a cocktail, e.g.

40. Pen point 41. Sea in the Mediterranean 44. Yo-Yo Ma’s instrument 46. Talks like a chicken 48. Overfamiliar from overuse 49. Terminate, as in mission 50. Same as eon 51. Shakespeare, a.k.a. ____ of Avon 52. “Ali ____ and the 40 Thieves” 53. *Tinker, Evers and Chance, e.g. 54. Egg-layers 55. Parent volunteer organization 58. Id’s partner © Statepoint Media

Answers on 25 »

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Fire Season: Create Defensible Space Around Your Home

ith our extremely dry winter comes the increased risk of a serious fire season. There are some things you can do to help protect your home or business from a wildfire or a structure fire. Recently, our office co-hosted a community preparedness meeting with representatives from the County’s new Office of Response, Recovery and Resilience (OR3) and County/Cal Fire to discuss ways to keep y o u r home safe. Here are some general tips to get started. One of the first things is to ensure you have a home emergency plan (and evacuation plan) and practice it with your family. All homes should have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and at least one ABC-rated fire extinguisher in your home. You can sign up for emergency notices, such as Code Red at www.scr911.org to learn about possible evacuations or changes in conditions. Ensuring the Fire Department can respond quickly also means having visible address numbers on the outside of your home and business (and if you have a sidewalk — along the curb). All homes should be kept clear of combustible debris such as cardboard boxes, rags, paper products, flammable liquids and fireplaces and wood stoves should be maintained and cleaned and inspected annually. The topography of Santa Cruz

The defensible space can reduce risk to both your home ... as well as to firefighters using the space to defend your property.

By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District

County, and location of homes within the rural areas, means it’s imperative to create a defensible space around your home. Defensible space is the buffer you create between your home or business and the vegetation that surrounds them to prevent these structures from catching fire. The defensible space can reduce risk to both your home (from fire directly or radiant heat associated with fire) as well as to firefighters using the space to defend your property. How do you create a defensible space? California State law requires that you maintain 100 feet of defensible space around your home and other buildings on your property. This is a minimum recommended amount and should be increased if your home is on a steep slope. You can create a defensible space by ensuring that trees are the furthest from your home and that elements that are less likely to burn (or burn at lower temperatures) such as lawns, small plants/beddings/high water content plants are closer to the home. For the first 30 feet from all buildings, decks and structures you should: • Remove or mow all dead plants, grass, or weeds. • Create paved or gravel driveways, walkways, patios as firebreaks • Remove dead or dry leaves and needles from yard, roof, and gutters. • Trim trees regularly and maintain a minimum of 10’ between canopies. • Remove branches that overhang your roof and any dead branches close to chimney.

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• Remove flammable items near any structure For the next 70+ feet from your home (extending to at least 100 feet from your home) you should: • Cut or mow annual grass down to a maximum height of 4” • Maintain 10 foot clearance around woodpiles • Thin trees and shrubs and leave big gaps between plants • Remove dead or dry leaves, needles, twigs, bark, cones, and branches from ground. How can you get more information? The Central Fire Protection District website — https://www.centralfiresc.org — contains preparedness information on

defensible space, general fire prevention and even the power shutoffs that have occurred. Fire Safe Santa Cruz County also maintains a comprehensive site with downloadable fact sheets and videos on how to prepare your home or business www.firesafesantacruz.org. Lastly, the County’s OR3 website has a resources link with a lot of valuable information: https://www.co.santa-cruz.ca.us/ OR3.aspx n ••• As always, I appreciate any feedback you may have on this (or any other County issue). I’m maintaining regular updates on social media at www.facebook.com/supervisorfriend and you can always call me at 454-2200.

FEATURED COLUMNIST

SCCAS Featured Pet

Ground Cover Works Like Mulch By Tony Tomeo

Ground covers, simply speaking, cover ground.

bigger shrubbery and trees. Algerian ivy and English ivy are famously aggressive if they overwhelm other vegetation. Also, they can cling to walls and ruin paint and siding. Star jasmine climbs too, but does not cling, and is more docile. Perennial ground cover plants, such as various iceplant, trailing gazania, trailing African daisy and pigface (freeway iceplant), tend to stay lower than other types. Most require no grooming over their upper surface, so only need trimming around the edges. Scraps from trimming during winter can become cuttings for bare patches or elsewhere in the garden. Several types root efficiently. ••• English Ivy ompared to Algerian ivy, English ivy, Hedera helix, may seem to be more complaisant. As ground cover, it mostly stays a bit lower, with smaller leaves, and a more refined foliar texture. It is generally easier to maintain and to mow if it does not get too deep. However, where it naturalizes, English ivy is more aggressive and more invasive than Algerian ivy. Rampant English ivy can If contained, overwhelm trees. English ivy is a splendidly dense and evergreen ground cover that excludes most weeds. Containment is very important! English ivy must not climb into shrubbery or trees. It otherwise overwhelms its support and disperses seed. Although reasonably safe on bare concrete walls, it ruins wooden, painted and stucco surfaces. Growth is very fast! ‘Hahn’s’ is likely the most popular cultivar of English ivy. It branches well, to fill out fast as ground cover. Cultivars that are variegated with white or yellow grow significantly slower, but provide elegant foliage for big pots or planters of mixed annuals or perennials. Foliar lobes are variable. For example, lobes of ‘Needlepoint’ are distinctly narrow and pointed. ••• Horticulturist Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo.com.

Meet The Adorable Whiskers!

owdy, I’m Whiskers (A283024), a black and white male kitty that was transferred here from the Hitchcock road animal shelter down in Salinas! I’m so excited to be in front of new faces, and take full advantage of this second chance for a furever home. So if you’re looking for a cuddly, playful, fun-loving kitty, read on! As you can see from my photos, I am just as cute as I am inquisitive. I weigh just under 9 lbs, which means I can be picked up and cuddled with ease. I turn into a total purrmachine when I’m being held, and love to be carried around everywhere! But don’t worry, I also love being on allfours; whether that means entertaining myself or playing with you! I do have to admit, from time to time I can get a little overwhelmed and need a break. You can count on me to tell you, gently, when I’m ready for some me-time. “Overall, you couldn’t ask for a better kitty,” and that’s coming from the shelter staff themselves! So what are you waiting for? Adoptions are first come, first served! Please view available animals on our website and then visit the Shelter to turn in your application. All adoptions require proof of home ownership or landlord approval. Please have this information prepared. If an animal is in Foster Care, please bring in your adoption application and schedule an appointment to meet the animal. Call 831-454-7200 x0 during business hours or visit www.scanimalshelter.org for more information! n ••• Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s full-service, open-admission shelter: Santa Cruz Location (Public Entrance): 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 Hours: Daily 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Watsonville Location: CURRENTLY CLOSED 580 Airport Blvd, Watsonville, CA 95076  SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182 • After Hours: jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us

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eeding otherwise bare and unused ground is no fun. Nor is weed whacking. Mulching inhibits future weed growth, but requires occasional replenishment. For many situations, ground cover plants are more practical. Once established, many sorts effectively exclude most weeds. Even more contain dust, and inhibit erosion of the surface of the soil below. As the terminology implies, ground cover plants are simply plants that disperse laterally, over the surface of the ground. Many migrate by subterranean stems known as rhizomes, or by stems on the surface of the soil, known as stolons. Some are vines that behave like stolons. Also, many are merely prostrate shrubbery that does not stand upright very high. Ground cover plants generally require more maintenance than mulch, and most want for some degree of irrigation. Conversely they require less effort than weeding. Furthermore, ground cover plants can live on slopes that are too steep for mulch to adhere to, and are more appealing than mulch. They might be as colorful or fragrant as other sorts of plants. Prostrate shrubbery, such as creeping cultivars of juniper, manzanita and ceanothus, are best in areas that are big enough to accommodate their width at maturity. Within confined spaces, they need pruning around the edges, which exposes unappealingly bare interior stems. Prostrate shrubbery generally gets higher than other types of ground cover plants. The many vines that work as ground cover probably stay lower than prostrate shrubbery, unless of course they climb into

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Hercules, the Lion’s Skin & Two Full Moons

Esoteric Astrology • August 2021 • By Risa D’Angeles

he Sun entered Leo last Thursday (July 29th) And the next night, Friday, we had a full moon (Leo solar festival). There are two full moons under Leo. The second occurs on the last day of Leo (August 22), nine hours before the Sun enters Virgo. Both full moons under Leo are Festivals of Sirius, with emphasis on the second full moon, as it occurs in the heart of the lion which is the star Regulus, the Law Giver. Regulus is the Royal Star and thus referred to as Magha, Maga or magic. Sirius flows through Leo, offering humanity love, intelligence, liberty and freedom, qualities much needed by humanity at this time of the Kali Yuga when the world is filled with darkness. Each of the 12 Labors (zodiacal Gates and signs) of Hercules is a story about the Light, the Soul and personality. Leo is the 5thgate, sign, labor and task for Hercules. He is to overcome the Nemean Lion (reactive personality) destroying the lands creating fear in the people. Hercules is courageous, strong and brave - Leos qualities. There are two lions in the story. One is the kingly lion, Hercules himself (the Soul). The other is ARIES

the animal lion (the roaring personality). The animal lion (uncontrolled personality) is “destroying the countryside” (one’s life). And so Hercules, alone and unafraid enters the world and tends to his labor. Eventually he hears the “Lion’s roar in all the land, especially in the evening air”, and comes upon a cave and entering it faces the fierce lion whose breath is fiery hot. Hercules grasps the lion by the throat and lifts him into the air holding him aloft “til the lion’s roars of hate subside”. Hercules overcomes the lion with great courage, strength and an act of will. And the great Teacher, looking on, said to Hercules, “The lion is dead, Hercules, but lions and serpents must be slain again and again. You have done well. Rest now.” Hercules in his task wore a lion’s skin. It informed the Teachers he was ready for testing and training. Humanity must now slip on its lions’ skin, gather its strength and courage, stand valiantly with resolve, pluck and willingness, and actually save the world from the “menacing lions”. For humanity’s tests have already begun.

LEO

You may struggle physically, emotionally and mentally to maintain equilibrium between desires, hopes, wishes, dreams and what is actually possible. It’s good to study the subject of sacrifice (from the heart) — the 1st Law of the Soul. At the center of sacrifice is Love ... a paradox. Love and sacrifice both come from the heart. We’re on Earth because we each chose to be here, leaving heaven to experience earth. You may not have known this before. You have chosen the Art of the Warrior as identity. Your companion is Mars, then Mercury. Spiritual warriors always win. TAURUS

You assess all relationships in terms of value. You must also assess what you value, whether you are of value, what value that may be, and then the values you offer others. Often you sense there is more you can offer, supply and give. Always you are to begin when giving with intentions for Goodwill which create Right Relations. You offer the goodness, kindness and stability of yourself in relationships. You know love isn’t a feeling.

SAGITTARIUS

Ponder upon how you want to be seen, known, admired, Life becomes subtler, slightly different, a bit inside out, upside praised and recognized in the world. Consider down, too. These changes in our lives awaken your identity as one who is called to use all many feelings. One is that of compassion. In your talents to build the new culture and cividaily life, tend to all debts and then give (tithe) lization. Leos are to nurture the new era at its to charity. Example of giving to those in need: foundational stages because Leos are leaders. Begin to share St. Jude’s Hospital; Doctors Without Borders; the Heifer Project. with everyone your thoughts, ideas, resources and discoveries These are difficult financial times for many. The spiritual law is about the future. Cultivate all creative gifts. Leo’s talents must what we give is returned ten-fold. When we give to others our life move from self to the community called humanity. in turn is cared for. You need deep and loving care. VIRGO

CAPRICORN

You’re coming into a new self-identity. You keep re-identifying yourself. Your newest identity is filled with thoughts of goodness and goodwill. It’s important to tend to the home. Its value is now and in the future. A certain set of teachings holds possibilities for greater Love & Wisdom. This study allows you to enter into the life stream of humanity through understanding the mysteries. Uranus asks if you’re studying astrology and the wisdom teachings consistently?

Things seem transformative at times, restricted other times. Then along comes joy streaming in from the garden through the back door. An interesting photography book to consider doing would be called Dinner in the Garden. Sometimes the days and evenings seem moody. And sometimes a new identity is forming with the sense of a new self. The river of life is taking you downstream into new territories, showing you new ideas for the new culture and civilization. What do you think is your part in its creation?

LIBRA

AQUARIUS

Tend to all things great and small, to all events and tasks both in between and necessary in daily life. Observe all habits, agendas, and how you serve the kingdoms around you. We evolve step-bystep, beginning with tending to our physical, then emotional, then mental bodies. Then we progress to the Soul. Each day “brood as a Soul upon the work, tasks and service for the coming day.” Emotions are then calmed. And the full moon shines upon you.

It’s a spiritual practice, especially in Leo to realize that one is valuable. Is this consideration as one who is of value difficult for you? If so make lists of all your gifts, abilities, talents, kindnesses, good deeds, thoughts, ideas and plans and all that you give. There you discover, realize and recognize your value. Place the lists on your walls, reading them each day. This knowledge of self as valuable harmonizes you. It’s the beginning of your self-identity as a server of Goodwill for humanity.

You see the need for nourishment of self and others. One source of nourishment is financial security in terms of home and land. Visualize a home on vast amounts of land. Include many small cottages, a barn or two, a large workspace for the arts, multiple gardens, fruit and nut trees, ponds, a communal professional kitchen, a lodge. See friends and loved ones living close by, Work daily on this through visualization. Draw and paint and talk about it. These begin to anchor your dream.

CANCER

SCORPIO

You reassess goals and aspirations, plans and agendas for the next two months. Interacting with nature (soil, trees, plants, air, sky, weather) is very important for your well-being. Make sure you’re out and about in the sun both morning and evening. Stand in nature, the most balanced kingdom. Its radiations strengthen your heart and mind, refocus your enthusiasm (“filled with God”), allowing calmness to emerge. Where is your garden and are the devas your companions?

Things, stars, people sometimes go into hiding. You understand this because hiding away for Scorpio is second nature. Sometimes you find someone else hiding away and make their acquaintance. There’s someone in your life of great value to you. They’re knowledgeable and have the skills needed for your next creative stage. They are concerned with humanity’s future. Call forth all your resources, using them to help others. Then you have a reason to come out of hiding. •••

You sense the need to be creative, to construct and build something. Returning to a previous, perhaps put-aside creative work allows you to reaffirm its importance in your life. There’s a renewed fire in the mind, calling you to two things. Laughter with a sense of play, much missed in your life since childhood. And a new level of creative work reflecting art and beauty . All parts of you yearn to create a close spiritual community, offering humanity refuge. It will appear in its right timing. It will be a paradise.

GEMINI

PISCES

Risa D’Angeles • www.nightlightnews.org • risagoodwill@gmail.com 26 / August 1st 2021 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“Clean Water” from page 20 As this is Water Quality Month, I thought it would be fun to share with you a few ideas to help you and your family do your part in keeping our water quality to the very highest standards. How many of these are you already doing? How many more can you put into regular practice? • Put nothing but water down storm drains. Water in those drains flows to our natural waterways, the groundwater, and the ocean, taking with it any contaminants or trash it may contain. Only stormwater and other clean water should go into storm drains — no litter, chemicals, soaps, pool water, or other water that contains harsh chemicals. • Decrease polluted runoff on your property by replacing paved surfaces, where possible, with low-water-use landscaping or porous surfaces. • Avoid using chemical fertilizers and pesticides. These can easily wash off your property and enter the natural water system, ending up in waterways. • Choose non-toxic cleaners, avoid antibacterial soaps, and never put medications down the drain or toilet. • Pick up after your pets — that waste material can also get washed away into the storm drains. • Check your vehicles for fluid leaks — this ends up on the street and eventually into the natural water system. • Try to patronize “green” car washes that recycle their water. The District’s water quality goals are a big part of the new supplemental water supply coming to the District — Pure Water Soquel. This project will put recycled water (purple pipe water) through an additional, three-step advanced purification process: Microfiltration, reverse osmosis, and ultraviolet light with advanced oxidation. The result is purified water of neardistilled quality. The purified water will be pumped underground to recharge the groundwater basin, providing a droughtproof supply of clean, safe water, and creating a barrier to seawater contamination (that is already occurring in some areas). The quality (and quantity — 1,500 acre-feet per year!) of this purified water is of great importance to not only the District and its customers, but to Santa Cruz, Central Water District, and the thousands of others who share the Santa Cruz Mid-County Groundwater Basin. I encourage you to learn more about National Water Quality Month at national waterqualitymonth.org and about the relatively small amount of fresh water we have on planet Earth. Protecting that water quality starts right here, in a partnership between the District and the community we serve. Together, we are contributing to our water quality — and what we and others do on a local basis, will in turn contribute positively to the worldwide issue of water quality. n www.soquelcreekwater.org

COMMUNITY NEWS

Friday Night Live: Developing Next-Gen Leaders From Nervous to Role Model

By Emily Palone ur Youth in Action Summit is an annual Friday Night Live peer-topeer leadership training. This summer, our theme was “Building Confidence and Embracing our Identities.” We thought this was an important theme and message to share with our peers as a way to recognize our individual strengths and support each other after an unexpectedly challenging year. I am a new FNL member. As a facilitator for this event, I was Emily Palone nervous because I did not know what to expect, especially because it was on Zoom. But I think we were able to create a really safe space because everyone who attended was attentive and ready to participate. That made my first summit facilitation a breeze! It was fun to work with fellow youth and share information about things like

how to showcase yourself on a resume, how to develop your leadership skills, and much more! The best part was that I felt like I could truly speak my opinions in the main room and in the breakout rooms without being judged. This is something that FNL strives to accomplish for its youth and others. Through events like Youth Action Summit, I have been able to grow my leadership skills by facilitating and participating. Before I joined Friday Night Live, I was not good at public speaking and breaking the silence in a room, but with FNL’s support and training I am now able to be a key facilitator for the Youth Action Summit and other events — which has allowed me to be a role model for my peers. I love having FNL as an outlet to help support my community and fellow youth. I cannot wait to facilitate and participate in another summit next year! ~~~ Emily Palone lives in Soquel and graduated from Soquel High in June. She will attend UC Santa Cruz in the fall.

Learning Leadership at Age 11

By Marie Castello-Bunch hen I attended the Friday Night Live Youth in Action Summit, I learned that organizations are about more than just one person. They are about the people who follow and join in to form a movement. Being a leader is less about yourself and more about working together with others to set goals. The workshop leaders were mostly other youths. I am 11 and the leaders were a little older, probably 16 or 18. They made the workshop fun and Marie Castello-Bunch did an excellent job of modeling their principles of leadership such as kindness, respect, and inclusion. I enjoyed sharing my opinions and hearing the perspectives of others as we learned about different leadership styles and looked at ourselves to determine which styles we use. Then we learned about how we can

use our personal leadership styles to work together with the styles of others. I hope to bring back some of what I learned to my community, possibly by starting a Friday Night Live club at my school. The workshop helped me understand more about being a leader and helped me to be a more confident speaker. I would recommend the workshop and joining Friday Night Live to any young person who wants to learn about themselves and cares about improving their community. ~~~ Marie Castello-Bunch lives in Capitola and will enter seventh grade at Tierra Pacifica Charter School in the fall. ••• To find out more about Friday Night Live, which is sponsored by Santa Cruz County, see the website: https://tinyurl. com/FridayNight LiveSC or email: sccfnlp@santacruzcounty.us or call or text: 831-359-8450. n

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831.479.6000 or toll-free at 888.4BAYFED, ext. 304 www.bayfed.com/HomeLoans *No closing costs include lender fees, appraisal fees, title fees, and escrow fees. First-Time Homebuyer Program available to those that have not owned a property in the last three years. Offer valid on owner-occupied single-family residences for those with a credit score of 680+. Maximum loan amounts up to $822,375 in Santa Cruz County and San Benito County, and $739,450 in Monterey County. Mortgage insurance required for loan amounts greater than 80% loan to value. Offer applicable on purchase transactions in the State of California. Offer not available on refinances. Other restrictions may apply. Terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. All loans are subject to approval of credit, income verification, and property valuation. Bay Federal Credit Union membership required at the time of closing. For more information, visit any Bay Federal Credit Union branch or call a Bay Federal Home Loan Consultant at 831.479.6000, or toll-free at 888.4BAYFED, extension 304. Bay Federal Credit Union is registered with the Nationwide Mortgage Lending System (NMLS). Bay Federal Credit Union ID #403635.

Federally Insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / August 1st 2021 / 27

COMMUNITY CALENDAR SCULPTURE IS: IN THE GARDEN 2021 On display thru Oct. 31 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sierra Azul Nursery and Garden, 2660 East Lake Ave., Watsonville Sculpture IS: In the Garden 2021, is the 15th sculpture exhibit in partnership with Sierra Azul Nursery and Garden. The jurors, Susana Arias and Jeff Rosendale, selected more than 100 sculptures created by 42 artists and collaborators. Visit the stunning two-acre demonstration garden, relax under the umbrellas, and spend an afternoon enjoying the outdoor exhibit. Admission is free. Visitors can see works created by: Jamie Abbott • Cristy Aloysi • Susana Arias • Jeff Arnett • Nessy Barzilay • Michael Bashista • Lucia Bruer • Trudi Burney • Jay Capela • Lee Cavanaugh • Paul Cheney • Kathleen Crocetti • Sally Diggory • Franco Di Majo • Barbara Downs • Scott Graham • Leonard Groner • Roy Holmberg • William Hufmann • Kristen Kolbek • Marilyn Kuksht • Ron Lion • Lyn MacDonald • Mike McClellan • Kirk McNeill • Susan Megorden • Annie Morhauser • David Mudgett • Geoffrey Nicastro • Nancy Niles • Jeff Owen • Jane Reyes • Pierre Riche • Jewel Rogers • Mandy Spitzer • Judy Stabile • Richard Starks • Aaron Vanderkerckhove • Susan von Schmacht • Jenni Ward • Lea de Wit • April Zilber

First Tuesdays Of The Month FIRST TUESDAYS FREE 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., UC Santa Cruz Arboretum, 1156 High St, Santa Cruz Community Day at the UCSC Arboretum means First and Third Monday Each Month free admission on the first Tuesday of every month 9 a.m-5 p.m. SENIOR LIFE ONLINE Guests are invited to explore the biodiversity of the gardens, 4 p.m., Online Meeting Join a local group of senior citizens for “Senior Life enjoy bird watching or relax on a bench in the shade. https://arboretum.ucsc.edu Online,” a free online (Zoom) program featuring a presentation by a local expert. View the full Wednesdays thru Sept. 1 schedule at scottsvalleyseniorlife.org/currentCAPITOLA TWILIGHT CONCERTS ARE BACK activities/. 6-8 p.m., Bandstand at Esplanade Park, Capitola Village Upcoming: Aug. 2 — June Gilliam will discuss her “Journey from Aug. 4: Mike Hammar & the Nails, playing blues a Former Chinese Communist to a Fervent American Aug. 11: Tsunami, playing classic rock/R&B, dance Patriot.” Fridays Aug. 19 — Dan Haifley, Monterey Bay Sanctuary Foundation’s Secretary of the Board, will speak about MIDTOWN FRIDAYS the Monterey Bay Sanctuary: its ocean health, research Ongoing thru Oct. 29, 1111 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz (next to and education programs. the fire station) To participate, you need an Internet connection Event Santa Cruz is hosting a Friday festival through the and a computer, tablet or smartphone. end of October. Called “Midtown Fridays,” the event will A one-time preregistration is required at https:// have a featured musical act plus food, artists, vendors, tinyurl.com/SVSLA-5. Questions? Call George at and more. (831) 334-7763. Admission is free. Senior Life Online is sponsored by Scotts Valley Senior Life Association (SVSLA), a 501(c)(3) non-profit whose mission is Saturdays to promote healthy living for senior citizens. Information is at ECOLOGICAL RESERVE TOURS AT ELKHORN SLOUGH http://scottsvalleyseniorlife.org. Tours start at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.,1700 Elkhorn Road, Watsonville Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday Volunteers lead walks highlighting the natural history of the Elkhorn Slough. Capacity is limited NAMI RECOVERY SUPPORT Mon/Wed 1-2:30 p.m., Fri 6-7:30 p.m., confidential Zoom due to physical distancing requirements, and individuals must sign up on a first-come, firstmeetings. National Alliance on Mental Illness Santa Cruz served basis. County offers the “Connection Recovery Support Groups of six or more should call ahead at (831) Group,” a free, peer-led support group for any 728-2822 or visit https://www.elkhornslough.org/ adult 18 or older who has experienced symptoms group-reservation/ to reserve a tour. of a mental health condition (no diagnosis For more information, visit http://www.elkhornslough.org/ required). esnerr/tours/ Groups are led by trained leaders who’ve been there. It’s confidential and drop-in friendly. DATED EVENTS To attend, complete the registration form. You will immediately get an email with the Zoom link. Sunday August 1 You will need to do this only once, and will be and Sunday August 15 able to use the same link for all groups in the future. Register at: https://tinyurl.com/namiART AT THE BEACH zoom-register. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Capitola Village’s Esplanade Park If you are unable to register, do not have an Enjoy Sunday Art at the Beach at Esplanade Park. email address, or have other questions, call the View and purchase quality artwork including painting, office at (831)-824-0406 or email anastasia@ photography, sculpture, jewelry and mixed media from namiscc.org. local artists. View previous sessions at https://www.namiscc.org/ This family-friendly event, presented by the Capitola Art & Cultural Commission, is free and open to the Tuesdays public. FARMERS’ MARKET AT RAMSAY PARK Artists applications are accepted up to Aug. 10. 2–6 p.m., Ramsay Park, Watsonville Download an Artist and Artist Requirements at El Mercado is a new farmers’ market hosted by Community https://www.cityofcapitola.org/acc/page/sunday-artHealth Trust of Pajaro Valley. beach-2021. There will be healthy locally grown produce, a veggie For information, contact Leslie Fellows at 831-419-7485 or Rx redemption site, cooking demonstrations and leslieafellows@yahoo.com wellness screenings. Sponsors include Lakeside Organic, Salud Para La Gente Monday August 2 and Kaiser Permanente. Visit pvhealthtrust.org/elmercado for Tuesday August 3 more info. ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION ONLINE WEBINARS 1-2:30 p.m., Phone/Online Seminar ROTACARE RETURNS! Aug. 2 5:30-8 p.m., Behind Star of the Sea Church, 515 Frederick St. Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia Santa Cruz Learn about the impact of Alzheimer’s; the difference The Free RotaCare Santa Cruz Clinic is reopening at its between Alzheimer’s and dementia; stages and risk new location. factors; current research and treatments available For more info, call 831-204-6040 or visit https://www. for some symptoms; and Alzheimer’s Association rotacarebayarea.org/santacruz resources.

Have a virtual or live event you want to promote? Send your information to info@cyber-times.com by August 9 internet connection and a computer, tablet or smartphone. To participate, view the calendar at https://communitybridges.org/SCWOL/ and find a class. That day and time, click on the link in the calendar to be connected. If you have a problem connecting, call Clara Munoz at (831) 458-3481. SECOND HARVEST FOOD DISTRIBUTION Second Harvest Food Bank’s drive-through food distribution will continue operating at the county Fairgrounds 9 a.m.-Noon on the following Fridays: Aug. 6 • Aug. 20 • Sept. 10 • Sept. 24 Food hotline: 831-662-0991.

ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES 10-week Online Session, Begins Sept. 13 Registration is now open for fall Italian language classes. Learn the language of “la dolce vita” with instructors who are native speakers. Whether you are new to the Italian language, totally fluent, or everything in between, the classes the Dante Alighieri Society of Santa Cruz is offering — beginning, intermediate, advanced, conversation — are for you. SANTA CRUZ SHAKESPEARE IS BACK! The online 10-week session begins the week of Sept. Featuring professional actors from around the country and 13, so register to secure your spot and get the early bird inspired by deep local roots that go back more than 40 discount, which ends Aug. 21. If classes fill, a wait list years, Santa Cruz Shakespeare stages bold productions of will be created. the plays of Shakespeare and other great playwrights that The price ranges from $175 to $225 for 10 weeks. To register stimulate audiences’ senses and spark their imagination. see: https://bit.ly/Dante-Classes. For more information email: Santa Cruz Shakespeare performances take place in dantesantacruz1265@gmail.com The Audrey Stanley Grove (or just “The Grove”) at Upper CAPITOLA’S FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS DeLaveaga Park in Santa Cruz. ••• Do you love eating outside while enjoying live music? If so, The Agitators: July 20- August 29 the Capitola’s Food Truck Friday events are perfect for you! RII (Richard II): July 21- August 29 The events are Fridays from 4 to 7 p.m. Upcoming Tickets start at $25 events are on Aug. 27 and Sept. 24. For more info about SCS, visit https://santacruzshakespeare. EL PAJARO KITCHEN ENTREPRENEUR TRAINING org/season-2021/, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. Due to limited capacity at the venue, people are encouraged to Aug. 9, Aug. 19 & 20, Sept. 1 El Pajrao Community Development Corp., which has a purchase tickets early. commercial kitchen in Watsonville for food entrepreneurs, will offer online training for free, with a focus on SpanishALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION speaking start-ups. The dates: CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS Monday, Aug. 9, at 6 p.m. Start a Food Business in Alzheimer’s Association is the United States, online offering video and phone Wednesday, Aug. 18 at 6 p.m. Commercial Kitchen meetings for caregivers Incubator, program orientation, online . throughout the month: Thursday, Aug. 19 at 6 p.m. Commercial Kitchens Second and Fourth Wednesdays Santa Cruz, 2-3:30 p.m. via phone — Facilitators: Jill Incubator, program orientation online Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at 6 p.m., Ginghofer and Laurie McVay. Orientation of the Entrepreneur Program. First and Third Wednesdays Santa Cruz, 5:30-7 p.m. via video or phone — Facili- To register, go to https://tinyurl.com/el-pajaro-cooking. tators: Francie Newfield and Kathleen McBurney. CABRILLO STAGE: UPCOMING EVENTS Second Saturdays Pirates of Penzance: July 30-Aug 1 Scotts Valley, 10-11:30 a.m. via video or phone — Performances are in the Cabrillo College Outdoor AmphiFacilitator: Diana Hull. Register by calling 800-272-3900 or email ymflores@alz.org. theater. Visit cabrillostage.com for tickets. ••• Second Wednesdays ONGOING EVENTS Spanish, 7-8:30 p.m. via phone — Facilitator: Yuliana Mondays Mendoza. Register by calling 831-647-9890 or email ymflores@alz.org. COOKING WITH GREY BEARS 1 p.m., 2710 Chanticleer Ave., Santa Cruz or Online SENIOR CENTER WITHOUT LIMITS Join Cooking with Grey Bears live in-person or via Zoom This new program from Community Bridges brings — Your choice! enrichment activities like yoga, art, music, tai chi, Chef Poppy DeGarmo is the instructor. cooking, tech and support groups to seniors age 60 and To attend remotely visit https://us02web.zoom. up in their homes at no cost. To participate, you need an us/j/92906805068. 28 / August 1st 2021 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Aug. 3 Understanding and Responding to Dementia Related Behavior Learn to decode behavioral messages, identify common behavior triggers, and learn strategies to help intervene with some of the most common behavioral challenges of Alzheimer’s disease. Please call 800.272.3900 to register or visit ALZ.org/CRF. Once you complete registration for the meeting, you will receive an email confirmation with the call-in information and instructions for joining the webinars.

The Bonny Doon Fire Safe Council is offering a two-day training Aug 14-15 open to people living in the urban wildland interface, with priority to Bonny Doon residents and then to residents of Santa Cruz County. The class is limited to 40 people. The cost will be $500 per resident. See bdfsc.org and click on home ignition zone training. For questions, email hiz@bdfsc.org or leave a message at 831-824-4155.

Tuesday August 3

SANTA CRUZ DINNER CLUB ANNUAL PARTY 4-8 p.m., Aptos Hills The Santa Cruz Dinner Club, a fine dining club, is planning the annual party for current members and potential new members who have been vaccinated. If you love to cook, enjoy fine wine and conversation, this is your opportunity to meet vaccinated locals that share your interests. A festive, gourmet meal with margaritas and wine (for purchase) will be served along with live music. Festivities begin at 4 p.m. Price is $20 for nonmembers. To learn more & get the location, email Rhonda Mills in advance at info@SantaCruzDinnerClub.com. n

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT: ZOOTOPIA 5 p.m., Kaiser Permanente Arena, 140 Front St., Santa Cruz The Santa Cruz Police Department celebrates National Night Out, co-sponsoring with the Santa Cruz Warriors a free family movie night, showing Zootopia. There will be games, crafts, bounce house, K9 demos, popcorn, and treats. Movie starts at 6:30 p.m. No pets, no smoking, and no alcoholic beverages are allowed. An adult must accompany children under 12. National Night Out is designed to reinforce relationships between citizens, businesses, and local law enforcement. RSVP at bit.ly/scpdzootopia

Thursday August 5 FREE TEEN DRIVER CLASS 5:30-7:30 p.m., Online Seminar The California Highway Patrol offers a free traffic safety program for teenage drivers and their parents, Start Smart, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 5. Traffic collisions are the leading cause of death for 15- to 20-year-olds so the goal is to provide teens and parents with an understanding of how poor choices behind the wheel can affect the lives of numerous people. Topics include: Defensive driving, traffic laws, dynamics of traffic collisions, tips on avoiding traffic collisions, and DUI — driving while under the influence — awareness. The class will be virtual via Microsoft Teams. Information on how to log onto Microsoft Teams will be sent after the class reservation. Call the Santa Cruz CHP Office to reserve a spot: (831) 662-0511.

Saturday August 7 LIONS ‘MAGIC MARKET’ 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Road Cabrillo Host Lions will present “Magic Market,” a benefit supporting Lions charities. Vendors include Ed Jenkins, who makes wooden toy trucks, Megan Purdue, who makes signs out of driftwood, and Dale Herra, who sells avocados, and Mid-County Senior Center will sell produce grown in the garden in Capitola. For information, call 831-688-3356. HIROSHIMA/NAGASAKI REMEMBRANCE Noon-1 p.m., Town Clock, downtown Santa Cruz A remembrance for Hiroshima and Nagasaki — featuring speakers, music, and prayer — is being sponsored by the United Nations Association of Santa Cruz County, Resource Center for Nonviolence, Veterans for Peace, Santa Cruz Chapter of the ACLU, and Santa Cruz’s Branch of the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom. The United States detonated atomic bombs over those Japanese cities in 1945 during World War II to pressure Japan to surrender, which it did, six days after Nagasaki was bombed. Between 129,000 and 226,000 people in the two cities died, most of them civilians.

Sunday August 15

REIKI I CLASS Saturday July 31 • Sunday August 1 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Pregnant Mare Rescue, Larkin Valley Road, Watsonville Reiki master teacher Cindie Ambar of Heartsong Animal Healing leads this two-day class. Peaches (top), Penny (left) and Niyol will be the horses assisting the class. Are you interested in a healing modality that is easy to learn and can support you and your animals in reducing pain, depression, inflammation, and anxiety, help address behavioral challenges, improve mobility and overall physical and emotional well-being? Reiki is an ancient Japanese meditative practice used for spiritual development and to practice oneness with all living things. Ambar uses the Let Animals Lead approach as taught by Kathleen Prasad, Animal Reiki Source. The course includes an overview of Reiki, how it relates to healing self, and other self-treatment chair treatments for humans, with charts for hand placement throughout the body. To learn more visit www.HeartSongAnimalHealing.com

Saturday August 21

MEET KEVIN KILEY Noon-4 p.m., Corralitos Grange Hall, 165 Little Corral Way, Watsonville The Santa Cruz County Republican Party plans a family BBQ which will feature guest speaker Kevin Kiley, 36, the Republican assemblyman who has represented the 6th District, Placer, Sacramento, and El Dorado counties since 2016 and is running to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom in the Sept. 14 recall election. Kiley, vice-chair of the Education Committee, declined a pay raise granted in 2021, and has introduced legislation to end special perks like the private DMV office for state lawmakers and their staff. He is the author of a 200-page ebook, “Recall Gavin: anyone who feels they can benefit from this information. The Most Corrupt Governor in the Nation,” focusing on Tuesday August 10 the results from his policies. Space in this class is limited. To make a reservation, call the CABRILLO COLLEGE REGISTRATION FAIR The son of a doctor and a special education teacher, Santa Cruz CHP Office at (831) 662-0511. 6-10 p.m., Cabrillo College Watsonville Center, 318 Union St. Kiley comes from Granite Bay and has three siblings. Cabrillo College Watsonville Center will host an He graduated from Harvard and became a high school Saturday August 14 in-person registration fair to help people with the English teacher in South Central Los Angeles, where he FREE COMIC BOOK DAY registration process. started an award-winning speech and debate team. GOAL — Great Opportunities through Adult Learning Free Comic Book Day, one of the comic book industry’s Next he graduated from Yale Law School, joined a private — a program at Building 1602 at Cabrillo’s main campus most beloved and anticipated celebrations, will again be a law firm in California, then became a deputy attorney in Aptos, 6500 Soquel Drive, offer classes for everyone. single-day event. general working on cases involving convicted felons. The event, traditionally on the first Saturday in May, shifted The past three years, the BBQ has sold out. Tickets are $40 per https://www.goaladultlearning.org/events/month?lang=es to August in hopes that disruption related to COVID-19 will person or $100 for a family (2 adults with children). To buy, see Questions? Call Adriana Torres, 831-400-8128 have passed. As this is the 20th anniversary of Free Comic https://santacruzrepublicans.com/upcoming-events/ Book Day, there are themed t-shirts and posters. Thursday August 12 Joe Field, founder of Free Comic Book Day and owner Saturday August 28 SENIOR DRIVER SAFETY PROGRAM of Flying Colors Comics & Other Cool Stuff in Concord, 9 a.m., Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office Community Room said, “While the world has changed over these last 20 13TH ANNUAL TESTICLE FESTIVAL located at 5200 Soquel Ave. 3-7 p.m., Estrada Deer Camp, 140 Hazel Dell Rd, Watsonville years, our love of comics and the power of comics to The California Highway Patrol is offering a traffic safety entertain and enlighten is stronger than ever. … I can’t The Testicle Festival, put on by the Young Farmers and program for senior drivers. wait to see all the first-time comic-curious readers, as Ranchers Committee of the Santa Cruz County Farm The Age Well, Drive Smart Program is designed Bureau, will feature the “No Respect!” band, known for a well as our long-time faithful fans come together.” to provide drivers with the keys to driving safer and Free Comic Book Day 2021 will feature up to 50 free wide range of songs from rock n’ roll to Latin. driving longer. This program is designed as an edutitles at participating shops, including Atlantis Fanta- Local chef Loretta Estrada will prepare Rocky Mountain cational tool for mature drivers. Topics of discussion syworld, 1020 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-0158, oysters; firefighter Derek Witmer will barbeque chicken. will include: 10 a.m.-7 p.m., and Comicopolis, 829 Front St., Santa The price, which includes the Rocky Mountain oysters • How to tune up driving skills. and chicken barbeque dinner, is $50 for adults, $20 for Cruz, 831-427-1929, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. • Refreshing their knowledge of the rules of the road. children 5-12 and free for children under 5. There will be Visit freecomicbookday.com. • Learning about normal, age-related physical a raffle, live and silent auction and horseshoe contest for changes and how to adjust  to them adults and children. Saturday August 14 • When it may be time to limit or stop driving. The popular “It’s All in the Sauce” Contest will take Sunday August 15 • Understanding the alternatives to driving. place. Attendees can vote on their favorite accompaFIRE SAFE COUNCIL TRAINING Age Well, Drive Smart classes are approximately two niment for Rocky Mountain oysters. Begins each day at 8:30 a.m., Bonny Doon Elementary hours long and are free of charge. These classes are For information, visit www.Agri-Culture.us, or buy tickets on www. geared toward drivers age 65 and up, but they are open to School, 1492 Pine Flat Road eventbrite.com (search for “Testicle Festival” in Watsonville). n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / August 1st 2021 / 29

COMMUNITY NEWS

EMPOWERING STUDENTS TO SHAPE THEIR FUTURES WITH CONFIDENCE.

Tree Survey Mystery Solved

Discover the joy of learning at Kirby School, an independent college preparatory day school in Santa Cruz for grades 6-12. Our challenging program is available both in-person, with enhanced safety precautions, and online, for at home learners. Social and emotional well-being is a top priority and vital to student success. Our caring team is committed to helping your child thrive. Now enrolling for the 2021-2022 school year. Learn more at one of our upcoming in-person or virtual Admissions events. We offer a test-free application process and Tuition Assistance. Contact us to learn more. Visit kirby.org for details.

KIRBY.ORG

425 Encinal Street | Santa Cruz, CA 95060

CASA CARES ABOUT BEING THERE. NO MATTER WHAT.

Join us for an online information meeting to learn more about how you can be there for a child in foster care. All it takes is 2 hours a week to make a lifetime of an impact. C AS AO F S A NTA CR UZ . O RG / SI G NUP 831 . 76 1. 2 95 6 30 / August 1st 2021 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

essie Bristow, manager of the Aptos Village project for builder Swenson, reports, “As part of the Phase 2 Final Map, we were required to provide an updated Arborist Report. So the trees were tagged by our consulting arborist as part of his analysis.” The 34-page report was completed in 2019 by certified arborist Kurt Fouts of Capitola. n

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

The Closure of Urgent Care in Scotts Valley he imminent closure of PAMF’s Urgent Care Center in Scotts Valley is evidence of the growing power of health care organizations. Santa Cruz Medical Foundation, the Palo Alto Medical Foundation, and Sutter Health, all nonprofits of varying types, have each entered into interlocking, overlapping contracts for medical care. Each of these medical systems is run by highly paid administrators contracting with each other’s organization and with the payers of health care coverage like Medicare and MediCal, and employers small and large like the UC employees health care system. Individuals who get their health care through these interlocking health care contracts have no voice in the decisions by these health care owners and administrator. They alone determine what and where we will receive health care in our communities. As taxpayers, we subsidize these foundations and the networks they create through their tax-exempt status, but we have no part in the decisions they make about our health care services. The Legislature should consider holding hearings to determine if the tax status of these organizations as not-forprofit continues to be a justified expense for taxpayers. If as some allege, they are losing money keeping the urgent care center in Scotts Valley open, maybe scrutiny of the salaries of high paid executives and administrators in each of these overlapping networks is a line item for potential cost savings and not the elimination of urgent care services for thousands of Scotts Valley and San Lorenzo Valley residents. The closure of the Scotts Valley urgent care will require rural residents in the San Lorenzo Valley, and rural residents

of Scotts Valley and the North County, to travel many more miles for urgent care services, sometime during peak traffic hours that can take 40 minutes or more. More miles and longer travel times can have serious consequences for people seeking urgent medical attention, and is particularly dangerous for older people with serious health care conditions. Some people seeking urgent medical attention and unable to quickly get an assessment of their medical condition may call 911, call an ambulance, or go to Dominican to get care. At a recent meeting on this topic I heard people relate each of these actions they would have taken if urgent care had not been available. Early this year, my elderly husband had a fall in the hills above Scotts Valley High School and ripped the skin off of both his arms as he rolled down the hillside. He was bleeding profusely, is diabetic and was in shock. Fortunately urgent care was close to where he fell. They quickly got his blood pressure and blood sugar stabilized while they were treating his wounds. It took them more than 3 hours of medical care before he was able to go home, bandaged from his wrists to above his elbows on each arm. Had urgent care not been there I would have driven him to Dominican that during afternoon commute hours would have taken at least 45 minutes, during which he could have passed out from a low blood sugar and shock, or because of his age and health condition had a heart attack. We were very lucky that urgent care was so close. We were grateful they were there, and we sincerely hope that PAMF will keep that resource in our community. n — Bonnie Burns, Scotts Valley

Ground covers, simply speaking, cover ground.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / August 1st 2021 / 31

everything...so close to home. Deluxe Foods of Aptos

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

Senior Hours: Wed. 7:30a.m.- 8a.m.

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

(831) 688-7442 www.deluxefoodsofaptos.com

deer park c e n t e r

Highway 1 & Rio Del Mar Boulevard, Aptos

BANKS: Bank of America BUSINESS SERVICES: Anderson

& Company-HOA Management Employnet / Contractor Advertising Galapagos Travel

PDM International Peak Accounting Services / SAR Asset Mgmt. Inc. / Scurich Insurance Cecy Insurance Services FOOD & DRINK: Deer Park Wine

& Spirits / Deluxe Foods Panda Inn / Mangiamo Pizza & Wine Bar / Red Apple Cafe PERSONAL SERVICES: Agape Dance Academy / Brian Del Core,

DDS / CVS Pharmacy Del Mar Cleaners / Eye Shapes Opticians / Highlights for Hair J-Bella Nails / Klub Nico Laser Hair Solutions

Aptos Times: August 1, 2021

Articles inside

Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28

Ground Cover Works Like Mulch, By Tony Tomeo

National Water Quality Month: Your Water is Clean, Safe and High

Fire Season: Create Defensible Space Around Your Home, By Zach

Recipe Box: California Succotash (with Tarragon), recipe by Poppy

Ah Lavender

Vaccine Funding for Local Businesses, Organizations

Push Ahead: Nurture Customer Connection Points, By Ron Kustek

Visit SC County’s Maggie Ivy To Retire • Long-Time Second Harvest CEO Retiring

Jobs Available as Caltrans Begins 3-Year Litter Drive