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Second Harvest Brings Fresh Food to Watsonville Hospital’s Patients
Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County is combining those two key factors by partnering with Watsonville Community Hospital to bring the new Nourish fresh pantry to the hospital. The grand opening is 3:30 p.m. Thursday, February 15. Full Story page 7
Aptos Upsets Santa Cruz, 46-45 Full Story page 8
Welcome to Your New Library! Aptos Branch’s Grand Opening: Feb. 4 from 1-4 p.m.
By Jondi Gumz Can the newly rebuilt reimagined Aptos Library meet expectations? My answer is: “Yes!” Now you in Aptosia-Land can see for yourself when
the library hosts a grand opening from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 4, with live music, story-time, a magic show and congratulatory speeches. Congratulations are most definitely in order. ... continues on page 4
Aptos: Top Place To Visit in the West
Forbes Advisor experts have compiled a list of the 50 best places to travel in 2024. Aptos made the list for those seeking a quiet slice of the California coast. If you suddenly find your quiet retreat full of strangers, this is why. Full Story page 6
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No. 3
Volume 33
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Table of Contents
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Cover Welcome to Your New Library!: Aptos Branch’s Grand Opening: Feb. 4 from 1-4 p.m., By Jondi Gumz
19 20 23
Community News Aptos: Top Place To Visit in the West Second Harvest Brings Fresh Food to Watsonville Community Hospital’s Patients, By Jondi Gumz Palace Art & Office Supply: 75 Years Strong County Spelling Bee Winners Advance to State: Aria Menon and Kheiron Guin Earn First Place • Felton Library Launches Marc Shargel Exhibit Meet Focus Agriculture Class 33 Pick Your Favorite Bridge Design Build the Field at Pajaro Middle School • Apply for Measure D Oversight Committee Our Community Reads: The Monk of Mokha: Upcoming Events ‘Visionary’ Metro Chief to Depart Zero Emission Passenger Rail & Trail Land & Sea Program: Second Harvest Delivers Fresh Produce & Fish at Schools Look Up Help Eric and Heidi Find a Place to Live Reading Pericles • Jobs in Santa Cruz County
7
Letter to the Editor In Response to Kris Kirby
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Local Sports Aptos Upsets Santa Cruz, 46-45
6 7 9 10 11 12 14 15 16 17 18
Pro & Con 22 A Small Ask to Address Critical Local Needs, By Tim Willoughby and Linda Kerner • Taxation Without Representation, By Tom Decker Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – I Was Wondering — What is the Sound of Humanity’s Freedom?, By Risa D’Angeles Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29
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Featured Columnists Living on the Edge: Miracles in Hawaii, By Barry and Joyce Vissell What to Expect for Spring Break Travel, By Christopher Elliott Why Isn’t Water Free?, By Rebecca Gold Rubin County Master Plan for Aging: Survey Open til March 31, By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District Bareroot Season Begins in January, By Tony Tomeo SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 31 – Stellaaaaa!
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COVER STORY publisher
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editor
Jondi Gumz
contributing writers
Jondi Gumz, Tim Willoughby, Linda Kerner, Tom Decker, Barry and Joyce Vissell, Christopher Elliott, Rebecca Gold Rubin, Zach Friend, Tony Tomeo
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Times Publishing Group, Inc. 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 The Times Publishing Group, Inc., publishers of the Aptos Times, a bi-monthly publication, the Capitola 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 ©2024. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission
“Aptos Library” from page 1 The address is the same: 7695 Soquel Drive, and the parking appears to be spacious. Inside is truly spacious. The building is 12,408 square feet — 50 % larger — and so carefully designed with the children’s area and the teen area separate from the adult reading area, which has a drop-dead gorgeous view looking onto Soquel Drive and onward to Monterey Bay. The picture windows bring in natural light and add to the feeling of spaciousness. With the theme of “forest to the sea,” some rooms are painted blue and white; others are green. Blue baffling on the ceiling — looking like an ocean wave — muffles sound and green glass dividers represent kelp. Kudos to Mark Schoeman of Anderson Brulé Architects, who listened to community feedback, and Santa Cruz contractor Bogard Construction, which teamed up for the design-build project, the first in the county. Bogard Construction President Jared Bogaard called the Aptos Library “a true example of how successful design/build deliveries can be on public projects.” The once-in-a-lifetime library was made possible by Measure S, the $67 million bond measure approved by voters in 2016 to repair and upgrade all 10 libraries in the Santa Cruz Public Libraries system. The Aptos project cost $14 million, and the Friends of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries raised $496,342 beyond the Measure S funding. Interim SCPL Director Eric Howard is especially pleased with this built-in feature: Energy-efficient design.
This colorful mural, Love is Why We Tell the Story, was sponsored by Live Like Coco Foundation, on the youth patio. New Collection id I mention the entire collection is new? About 23,000 books, according to librarian Sarah Harbison, who said library crews worked round the clock for two weeks to organize books — science fiction, fiction and nonfiction — that were packed into floorto-ceiling boxes. There is a new local history collection, plus DVDs and audiobooks. Visitors who check out “Your Lucky Day” shelves may find a book in high demand with a long waitlist such as “The Horse,” the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Geraldine Brooks, Barbra Streisand’s new memoir and “The Fury,” a thriller by Alex Michaelides. Caution: You must finish “Your Lucky Day” book in three weeks — no renewals. Twelve computer stations are ready for
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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
adults, with a mix of chairs, some with arms, some without — and again, the word is spacious — plenty of room to work without elbowing the person next to you. There is a second reading area for adults, with the new magazine racks offering 64 choices. The community room, named for Betty Leonard, a nurse who left the Aptos library $650,000, seats about 70 and has a fridge, sink and trash can. An anonymous donor gave money for the conference room to be named for Dr. Norman Dorosin and his wife Blossom, longtime Aptos residents. This room seats 12 to 16, and will host the writers workshop on Mondays. The bridge club sponsored by Santa Cruz County Parks & Recreation is moving here from the Capitola Library, starting Monday, Feb. 5. Members meet weekly from 10:30 a.m. to noon, holidays excepted. All this spaciousness will make it easier for library staff to offer programs and not interfere with regular library patrons. “Everybody gets their cup of tea,” Rammer said. Aptos History es, the replica of an indigenous canoe hangs from the ceiling — it’s part of the Aptos History Museum display. Watch for the historic Rio del Mar sign and the rotating exhibit now featuring Claus Spreckels, Claus Mangels and a beautifully embroidered Spanish shawl. A pair of group study rooms seat 5 to 6 people each and can be reserved the day it’s needed. The children’s section is thoughtfully organized from the board books for babies, to early readers such as “Frog & Toad,” “Pinkalicious” and “Flat Stanley” for grade 1-3, then older readers such as “Dragon Academy,” “Captain Underpants” and Geronimo Stilton.” Then nonfiction — “I Survived the Titanic” and — the most popular of all — graphic novels, which has more shelves than originally anticipated. Along with DVDs, books on CDs, there are Vox books, which came out in 2015 and won a National Parenting Product Award
Exhibits from Aptos History Museum feature Claus Spreckels, Claus Mangels and a beautifully embroidered Spanish shawl.
4 / February 1st 2024 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
COVER STORY in 2021. Kids push a button and a lively narrator reads the story to them, with a special sound telling them when to turn the page. I can see this will help kids pronounce words that are unfamiliar — and gives them a way to enjoy a book when their parents are busy making dinner. The staff quarters are spacious too, easy to sort through the books being returned to get them to any of the 10 branches in the Santa Cruz Public Libraries system. Any skimps on this project? There is only one printer station, so bring your patience. While you wait, take in the view, the art, or better yet, read a book, and you’ll get your turn. Aptos Branch Library hours: Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Sunday. n ••• Sunday, Feb. 4: Grand Opening and Community Celebration for the new Aptos Branch Library, 1-5 p.m. Speakers: Santa Cruz County Supervisor Zach Friend, Friends of the Aptos Library President Gale Farthing, interim SCPL Director Eric Howard, Friends of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries Board President Janis O’Driscoll, and Mark Schoeman from Anderson Brulé Architects. enjoy music by Kuzanga Marimba of Santa Cruz, a performance by MusicalMe with Lizz, and a show by magician James Chan. ••• COVER PHOTO: Aptos librarian Rowan Rammer is eager to greet you at the grand opening Feb. 4. Photos Credit: Jondi Gumz
Aptos library assistant Claire McCoy appreciates the view from the corner of the reading area.
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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / February 1st 2024 / 5
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Aptos: Top Place To Visit in the West F orbes Advisor experts have compiled a list of the 50 best places to travel in 2024. Aptos made the list for those seeking a quiet slice of the California coast. If you suddenly find your quiet retreat full of strangers, this is why. Here is what Forbes Advisor contributor Emily Jane Moore wrote: “Finding a quiet slice of the California coast isn’t always easy. Aptos offers the peace and amenities laid-back travelers seek, with quick access to Santa Cruz’s buzzier food and drink scene. Enjoy the famous drive along California’s Highway One to reach Aptos. Then, pack a cooler, chair and umbrella for a day at Seacliff State Beach, where a nearly two-mile long, commercial-free promenade beckons for scenic walks or bike rides. Escape the sun
for the comforting shade of old-growth redwoods in the nearby Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. For a morning latte fix, coffee lovers will make a habit of local roaster Cat & Cloud. After a day at the beach, freshen up for a visit to BAD ANIMAL in Santa Cruz, where you can enjoy a creative Thai menu, a natural wine selection and browse for rare books. Or, keep it casual with the area’s best fish tacos at Steamer Lane. Take a short walk to the overlook, where you might catch a glimpse of the famous otter 841, who gained her notoriety for repeatedly stealing surfboards. Rewards spotlight: Hilton Honors members and Hilton cardholders can cash in their hotel points at the Seacliff Inn Aptos, a Tapestry Collection property.” n
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6 / February 1st 2024 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
Photo Credit: Ron S. Nolan
COMMUNITY NEWS
Second Harvest Brings Fresh Food to Watsonville Community Hospital’s Patients
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By Jondi Gumz
econd Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County is combining those two key factors by partnering with Watsonville Community Hospital to bring the new Nourish fresh pantry to the hospital. The grand opening is 3:30 p.m. Thursday, February 15. “At Watsonville Community Hospital, Second NOURISH Harvest is addressing one of the root causes of foodinsecurity in our county,” says Second Harvest CEO Erica Padilla-Chavez. “The Food Bank recognizes the link between food insecurity and health adversities and is addressing both causes by promoting wellness by distributing healthy, fresh foods and also providing nutrition education within the hospital.” This is a unique concept. Stephen Gray, CEO of Watsonville Community Hospital, says, “We are excited to partner with Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County and to be one of the first hospitals in California to have a food bank-led fresh-market pantry within the hospital for prenatal and postnatal mothers and patients.” Gray added, “Good nutrition is such an important determinant of health, especially among prenatal women. Studies have shown that a healthy diet, including a variety of nutrient-dense, whole foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and healthy fats, in place of processed food, contributes to optimal fetal growth, better outcomes in childbirth, and the potential for better long-term health in both the mother and child.” While the specific mission of the pantry is to promote wellness by providing access to fresh, nutritious food options to pre-and post-natal patients, other discharged patients of the hospital are also welcome. TM
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eorgina King, hydrogeologist with Montgomery & Associates, consultant to Soquel Creek Water District, says letter writer Kris Kirby misinterpreted the assessment of the groundwater basin in the Jan. 15 Aptos Times. Here is an excerpt from King’s letter: •••
The pantry will also be a resource for all the services that Second Harvest and the hospital provide. In addition to healthy food such as produce, grain, and legumes, the pantry will offer some of Second Harvest’s directto-client services including CalFresh enrollment, CalWorks enrollment, MediCal
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recertification, home food delivery, prenatal education class signups and support group information. Information for Second Harvest’s programs and assistance will be available in the pantry in both English and Spanish. You can learn more about the new Nourish fresh pantry, as well as the locations
and times of other Second Harvest’s food distribution sites, at thefoodbank.org/ nourish. n The pantry is located near the main lobby of Watsonville Community Hospital, 75 Neilson St., in the section formerly occupied by the gift shop. Beginning Feb. 19, Nourish fresh pantry’s hours will be Mon.–Thurs. 1 to 6 p.m., and Fri. 9 a.m. to noon.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR In Response to Kris Kirby
y statement during the presentation that “the Basin is going along pretty well” referred to how the Basin/MGA is progressing along the path to sustainability. DWR gives all Groundwater Sustainability Agencies 20 years to achieve sustainability, where sustainability is a condition with no undesirable results occurring to groundwater beneficial users and uses.
GSAs are required to prepare and submit annual reports and periodic evaluations of their GSPs. As reported for Water Year 2022 and will also be reported in the WY2023 Annual Report, the Basin still has GSP-defined undesirable results for seawater intrusion occurring and therefore has not yet achieved sustainability. As indicated by slide 5, part of the path to sustainability includes
implementing projects and management actions. The GSP includes Pure Water Soquel as a project to achieve sustainability. One component of the Basin doing pretty well on the path to sustainability is the progress achieved in implementing projects like Pure Water Soquel. — Georgina King, P.G., C.Hg., Principal Hydrogeologist, Montgomery & Associates.
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / February 1st 2024 / 7
LOCAL SPORTS
Aptos Upsets Santa Cruz, 46-45 O n Jan. 30, the Mariners avenged their loss to the Cardinals, who had a perfect 8-0 record in League, defeating their arch-rival 46-45 at home in front of a loud and supportive crowd. It was “camo” night, and lots of fans came wearing warpaint. Junior Isaiah Ackerman, when asked how Aptos claimed the victory, said, “Practice.” All of the Mariners played dogged defense. At halftime, the Mariners held a 25-17 advantage. Senior Lawrence Ingram contested rebounds. Junior Mateo Calfee was effective on inside shots. Luke Garvey was effective on outside shots. The Cardinals scored more in the second half and had opportunities at the free throw line in the waning seconds but could not convert. Santa Cruz, a taller team with 6-footers who can score at will, was humbled. The Cardinals have an 8-1 record in League and can expect first place. The Mariners are 7-2, with one more game against Harbor (1-7), putting them in second place. n
8 / February 1st 2024 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
Photo Credits: Jondi Gumz
Clockwise from above: Lawrence Ingram is fouled while taking a shot. • Mateo Calfee takes a shot. • 6-foot-4 Isaiah Ackerman (center), Calfee and the crowd celebrate the win. • Aptos High principal Dr. Alison Hanks-Sloan beams with pride in her camo gear.
Make a difference. Leave a lasting legacy. To learn more visit: aptossportsfoundation.com
COMMUNITY NEWS
Palace Art & Office Supply: 75 Years Strong C all Palace Art & Office Supply the phoenix that rose from the ashes. In its 75-year history, Palace has faced floods, earthquakes, a recession, the birth of e-commerce, and a pandemic. Still, it remains one of very few locally owned brick-andmortar only businesses in town. What started as Palace Stationery has, since the Trowbridge Family purchased it in 1949, bounced around multiple Pacific Avenue addresses before expanding beyond the reaches of downtown. With no succession plan as the original owners approached retirement, an exit strategy began to unfold. Once the imminent closing was announced, an outpouring of support came from the community, including a surprise offer for purchase. “We can’t imagine Santa Cruz without Palace! Is it for sale?” Within weeks, Palace had a new lease on life for the next generation ahead. While retaining its entire original staff, the new owners have paved the way for a refreshed shopping experience in the store. “Anybody who has been in here will see the depth of product that we carry,” said Mark Rispaud, Director of Business Development. “What might appear from the outside as old school is part of what really works for Palace. We stay committed to providing excellent customer service and an entirely in-person shopping experience as well as expanding our offerings to include new products.” Case in point: Palace recently broke through the physical wall of its neighboring space to welcome in Moods Clothing Boutique in August 2023. The boutique carries brands such as Free People, Johnny Was and Pendleton, to name a few.
Palace also now has an entire room dedicated to handmade papers and gift cards, some of which are made by local artists. This was in response to a resurgence in demand for the products shortly after the pandemic. And for those who haven’t looked recently, Palace has a huge selection of STEAMfocused art and craft supplies, toys, games, puzzles, and educational materials for kids. But still, at its core, Palace is a fine art supply store. The staff knows the store’s art products and tools through and through, having worked previously with them. Oftentimes, training in the products is offered to the staff by its manufacturers and to customers through free product demos in the store. Palace also does good by sharing its business vitality with the community. They have a regular rotation of featured local artists through their Art on the Wall program as well as offer local artist demos and classes. Indeed, it’s not all about business for Palace. The store has long supported the local art community represented by the Capitola Arts and Cultural Commission, Arts Council Santa Cruz County, Open Studios, Capitola Plein Air festival, and other local arts education initiatives. So, call Palace a victor as it successfully fulfills its mission to provide nothing but the best in art, school, and office supplies and services to the community. n ••• Come help celebrate Palace Art & Office Supply’s 75th year in Santa Cruz County at its store at 1501 41st Ave., Capitola on Feb. 24 and 25 with free events featuring more than 20 local artists and 20 top manufacturers. Visit www.palaceartsupply.com/anniversary for complete event details and a demo schedule.
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / February 1st 2024 / 9
COMMUNITY NEWS
County Spelling Bee Winners Advance to State
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Aria Menon and Kheiron Guin Earn First Place
ria Menon, a sixth-grader at Mountain Elementary School in Soquel, was crowned champion of the 2024 Santa Cruz County Spelling Bee elementary division; Clark Christensen, sixth-grader at Rio del Mar Elementary School placed second, and Emerson Brunner, fifth grader at San Lorenzo Valley Charter School, was third. Kheiron Guin, a seventh-grader at San Lorenzo Valley Charter School, won the junior division; Zoe Coatney, seventhgrader at New Brighton Middle School in Soquel, placed second and Ella Vicar, eighth-grader at New Brighton Middle School, placed third. First- and second-place finishers advance to the California State Spelling Championship, scheduled for April 27 at the San Joaquin County Office of Education. “Congratulations to our winners, and to each of the amazing students from across Santa Cruz County who participated this year!” said Barbara Huebner, multilingual achievement coordinator at the Santa Cruz County Office of Education. “The Spelling
From left: Zoe Coatney, Kheiron Guin, and Ella Vicar. Bee is not just about words, it’s a celebration of language and a chance for students to build confidence in their abilities that they will carry forward for years to come.” Hosted by the Santa Cruz County Office of Education, the 2024 Santa Cruz
From left: Clark Christensen, Aria Menon, and Emerson Brunner County Spelling Bee took place Jan. 20 at UC Santa Cruz. The annual academic competition includes two divisions: elementary (grades 4-6) and junior (grades 7-9). Competitors first participate in
school spelling bees, with the top two finishers in each division advancing to the countywide competition. Students from schools that did not host a spelling bee were able to apply to participate on an at-large basis, selected by lottery. n
Felton Library Launches Marc Shargel Exhibit
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Pre & K Discovery
February 8 | 9:30–11:30am
Campus Tour
February 12 | 1:00–2:30pm
Offering bus transportation and flexible tuition RSVP and more info: admissions@mountmadonnaschool.org 408-846-4042 | MountMadonnaSchool.org 10 / February 1st 2024 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
bove and Below California’s Ocean, through the photography of Marc Shargel is a nature photography exhibit at Felton Library. featuring images of local marine life and drastic changes in ecology, plus iconic western landscapes and eclipse photography. Shargel is an award-winning nature photographer, marine conservationist and author of the three-volume Wonders of the Sea coffeetable series of books. The exhibit will be displayed at the Felton Library from Jan. 2 to March 29 in the community room. The library is open to the public 10 Marc Shargel a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday thru Thursday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. ••• arc Shargel has taken his cameras underwater to photograph sharks, jellies, and kelp forests. On land he has made vivid images of eclipses and the great landscapes of the American West. As a scuba diver, he has been watching ecological shifts in the Central California Pacific since the
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1970s. Recently, he has used his camera to document stunning changes to California’s kelp forests. S h a r g e l observed slow but continuous decreases in marine life during scuba dives from 1978 to 2013. Then, suddenly California’s kelp began to disappear, and with it over 1,000 species that live in © 1999 Marc Shargel / LivingSeaimages.com kelp forests. Since 1997 Shargel has made photohe has been a graphic art from encounters champion for with marine life ranging from marine reserves, tiny snails, to schools of jellies, which are no-take to huge sharks. This is an areas that function Egg-Yolk Jelly that he found in as refuges and Carmel Bay in 1999. nurseries for life in our ocean. He played an integral part in drawing the boundaries for new marine reserves along the Central Coast. “Shargel” page 11
COMMUNITY NEWS
Meet Focus Agriculture Class 33 T wenty community leaders have been selected for Class 33 of the Focus Agriculture program. This “first-in-thenation” program is designed for community leaders to learn about agriculture in Santa Cruz County and the Pajaro Valley. Class members include: Hilary Bryant, donor services director, Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County; Peter Detlefs, principal administrative analyst, County of Santa Cruz; Zeke Fra-ser, CEO/ Secretary Manager III & fair manager, 14th District Agricultural Association; Sgt. Nicholas Solano, Community Policing Hilary Bryant Division, Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office; and Lois Sones, program director, Community Bridges Elderday. Plus: Steven Allen, president/CEO, Allen Property Group, Drew Clowser, marketing manager, Lakeside Organic Gardens LLC, Leah Cowan, government relations, Sutter Health, Liz Dasher fund development director, Hospice of Santa Cruz, Brent Dunton, VP, senior business banking Officer, Santa Cruz County Bank, Ramon Gomez, chief of staff, Santa Cruz County Supervisor Felipe Hernandez, Vance Landis, founder/CEO & president, Gateway Health Management/Heritage Farms, Sara Lozano, marketing & product development, Sambrailo Packaging, Sarah Newkirk, executive director, Land Trust of Santa Cruz County, Forrest Revere Board of Supervisors analyst, Santa Cruz County Supervisor Zach Friend, Meggie Rhodeos, admitting & business services manager, Sutter Maternity & Surgery Center, Jenna Rivera, community engagement specialist, Driscoll’s, Inc., Amy Ross, director of patient services, Salud Para La Gente, Matt Sparke, professor & director
“Shargel” from page 10 Renowned marine biologist Sylvia Earle calls them “hope spots.” But in 2013, just six years after the new reserves went into effect, stunning changes in marine life presented a new threat. Shargel will reveal a photographic chronicle of the beautiful but now-threatened kelp forests found just beyond local shores. Shargel’s photos of California marine life were a unique contribution to the debate about creating marine reserves in Central California. After 2007, as processes to create “parks in the ocean” moved to other parts of the state, he created larger photo essays for each region. These became a series of three lavishly printed coffeetable volumes, his Wonders of the Sea books. Following that, he authored the soft
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of global & community health, UCSC, Tracey Weiss, executive director, O’Neill Sea Odyssey. The Agri-Culture Board of Directors selects the 20 participants. The program consists of nine daylong sessions over eight months, starting Friday, March 15. Speakers ranging from farmers, to elected officials, to representatives from environmental groups will address the class on topics such as ethnic groups in agriculture, new technology, and diversity of commodities locally grown. There are many farm tours and participants will spend one day working on a farm. Agri-Culture President Steve Bontadelli, said, “Community leaders will find this program beneficial and, in turn, growers who present information to the class will learn the public’s current perspective of local agriculture. The program is designed to be a two-way learning process.” The Focus Agriculture program received a national award for its innovative approach to bringing the public and the agricultural community together. n
cover Yesterday’s Ocean: A History of Marine Life on California’s Central Coast. Shargel is well-known to local art lovers as well: his home-studio is a regular stop on the Santa Cruz County Open Studios tour each October, as well as the San Lorenzo Valley Art Tour each May. His photography includes placid vistas beneath sunlit kelp forests, and encounters with everything from jewel-like snails to swarming jellies and schooling hammerhead sharks. He has presented at nearly every dive club in the greater Bay Area, and dozens of civic organizations as well. n ••• Felton Library, a branch of Santa Cruz Public Libraries; 6121 Gushee Street; Felton, CA 95018 Additional details can be found at www.Living Seaimages.com/events.php
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Pick Your Favorite Bridge Design T he Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission is seeking community input through an online survey on what type of bridge do you prefer for a Coastal Rail Trail bridge in Aptos. Deadline to complete the survey is Feb. 9. To see the two choices, Tied Arch Bridge or the low-profile Stress Ribbon Bridge, watch this video: https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=F1O8giDR1qI The bicycle and pedestrian bridge are to be constructed as a part of the Highway 1 auxiliary lane, bus-on-shoulder (Freedom Boulevard to State Park Drive) and Coastal Rail Trail Segment 12 project. Coastal Rail Trail Segment 12 is a 1.25-mile-long bicy cle and pedestrian trail proposed through Aptos along the Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line right-of-way from State Park Drive to Rio Del Mar Boulevard. The project includes a new bridge over Aptos Creek and Soquel Drive on the north side of Aptos Village. Originally a three-span simple prefabricated bridge was proposed However, the project development team encountered
challenges with utilities conflicting with the location of bridge columns. Given the challenges, the project team now recommends a single-span 300-footlong bridge. Both bridge types have similar costs, and the bridge railings and width would be identical. The Tied Arch Bridge would be supported by two 300-foot-long curved arches with the deck supported below. Its 50-foottall arch makes a striking visual statement. The other option, a Stress Ribbon Bridge, would be supported by suspension cables within the concrete deck. Its low profile and minimalist design would offer a harmonious blend with the environment. What does the community want? Put your two cents in by Feb. 9. The project is in the final design phase, which is due for completion in 2025, with construction scheduled to begin in 2026 pending availability of funding for construction. n ••• For more information on the project, see https://sccrtc.org/projects/streets-highways/ hwy1corridor/highway-1-state-park-dr-tofreedom-blvd-aux-lanes/.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Build the Field at Pajaro Middle School P ajaro Middle School was flooded in March 2023, and the Pajaro Valley Unified School District is using FEMA, insurance, and state funds to reopen the campus in the fall — but the repairs do not include an improved athletic field for the students and the community. So, district staff are calling on the community for help. The district has $500,000 from deferred maintenance funds that came during the pandemic to put into the project. The Build the Field campaign seeks to raise an additional $1.5 million to install a synthetic turf field. The goal: Raise this money by August. While the campus has been closed for cleanup and reconstruction, Pajaro Middle students have been attending classes at Lakeview Middle, Ohlone and Hall District elementary schools. When students were surveyed about
their hopes for returning to their school, there was one request: “We need our field.” All donations to this project are welcome! Donors contributing $1,000 or more will be recognized at the field with signage that includes the company’s name and logo prominently displayed. School reconstruction has begun. Tours of the facility are available for people to visit and visualize the potential this field has for the students and families. To donate, make checks payable to the Pajaro Valley Unified School District Pajaro Middle School Field Fund and mail to 294 Green Valley Road, Watsonville, CA,95076 to the attention of the Office of the Superintendent. PVUSD’s Federal Tax ID will be shared upon request. If you have questions or wish to set up a facility tour, call PVUSD’s Interim Superintendent Murry Schekman directly at 831 840-7675 or email him at murry_ schekman@pvusd.net. n
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Apply for Measure D Oversight Committee
he Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission is accepting applications for the Measure D Taxpayer Oversight Committee for representatives from Districts 2 & 4. The deadline to apply is Feb. 15. This oversight committee will review how the funds generated by the transportation tax are being spent. The committee will: • Review expenditure plan expenditures annually to ensure they conform to the Ordinance. • Reviewing the annual audit and report prepared by an independent auditor, describing how funds were spent. • Produce a publicly available Annual Report of Oversight Activities.
Members must be residents of Santa Cruz County who are not elected officials, and not employees from any agency or organization that oversees or implements projects funded by the sales tax. Members must fairly represent the geographical, social, cultural, and economic diversity of Santa Cruz County. At least one member must have an accounting or fiscal management background. The term is two years, with option for reappointment. The application is at https://sccrtc.org/ wp-content/uploads/2022/12/OvrSghtCommApp-2022_final.pdf The Bicycle Advisory Committee and the Elderly and Disabled Transportation Advisory Committee also have openings. n
COMMUNITY NEWS
Our Community Reads: The Monk of Mokha Friday, Feb. 2 Sacred Brew? The Religious, Political, and Cultural Role of Coffee in Yemen | 6 p.m. Dr. Flagg Miller, UC Davis Professor of Religious Studies, talks about the role coffee plays in Yemeni culture and about his current coffee-growing research project in Yemen. Dr. Miller’s academic focus is on cultures of modern Muslim reform in the Middle East, especially Yemen. Dessert and coffee will be provided. Fireside Room, Scotts Valley Library, 251 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley. Tuesday, Feb. 6 Yemeni Stories: The Yemeni Immigrant Experience | 7 p.m. Jehan Hakim, a 2nd-generation YemeniAmerican Muslim, founder of the Yemeni Alliance Committee and board member of Just Foreign Policy, will join us for a virtual talk from Texas. Her experience spans interfaith coalition building, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion training, and consulting. Geneffa Jahan, professor of English at Cabrillo College, will moderate further discussion, and there will be a bag of Harazi Blend Yemeni Style coffee for a lucky audience member! Ow Family Community Room, 2005 Wharf Road, Capitola Library ••• Wednesday, Feb. 7 Coffee Warms the Heart (art workshop) 1 p.m. Hearts and flowers are familiar symbols of love. With Valentine’s Day just a week
Upcoming Events
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away, you’ll create a bouquet or a greeting card using coffee paint as your medium. Artist Lise Bixler leads this art workshop. No experience needed. All materials supplied. Felton Library Community Room ••• Saturday, Feb. 10 BOOK ONLINE TODAY! Writing Under the Influence of Coffee! (workshop) | 11 a.m. Starting with a few coffee-flavored writing prompts to get you motivated, facilitators
n over to Blvd. ir 416 A port ille 30 MINUTE v n in Watso Fly o FUN, FAST
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June Langhoff and members of the Santa Cruz chapter of Shut Up & Write follow up with silent writing, and end with optional sharing. Loads of encouragement and coffee will be provided. Fireside Room, Scotts Valley Library ••• Tuesday, Feb. 13 “Baristas” (film) | 6:30 p.m. Follow four passionate National Barista Champions — from Japan, Ireland, the USA,
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and Germany — as they represent their countries at the 2017 World Barista Championship in Seoul, South Korea. You’ll get a terrific behindthe-scenes peek into the preparations required for this tense competition. (Popcorn will be available!) [This film contains some profanity.] Ow Family Community Room, Capitola Library High School Art Competition Winners. View designs from the High School Art Competition, where students redesign The Monk of Mokha book jacket. Judged by staff members from Bookshop Santa Cruz. ••• Thursday, Feb. 15 Brewing Revolution: Coffee and Class Struggle in 20th-Century Central America | 6:30 p.m. Back by popular demand, Nick Rowell, professor of political science at Cabrillo College, discusses how coffee is a factor in contributing to peace and prosperity in some instances, and civil war and revolution in others. Rio Sands Hotel Community Room — 116 Aptos Beach Drive, Aptos ••• Saturday, Feb. 17 Coffee Botanical Illustration (art workshop) | 1 p.m. Facilitated by art educators Sharon Ferguson and Jo-Neal Graves, participants will learn to look closely at each part of the coffee plant and create a botanical illustration. You’ll be guided every step of the way. No experience needed. Materials, Instruction, support, and encouragement will be provided. Ow Family Community Room, Capitola Library
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COMMUNITY NEWS
‘Visionary’ Metro Chief to Depart M ichael Tree, the CEO of the Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District for the past two years, guiding the change to faster and more frequent bus service, is relocating to his hometown to be closer to family and join Golden Empire Transit District as CEO. Tree, who joined Metro in April 2022 with 27 years of transportation and city management, is retiring Feb. 16. “My decision to leave the agency and the Santa Cruz community comes with a heavy heart but my decision was made for solely personal reasons related to my aging parents,” said Tree. “The Metro Board and staff are fully committed to Metro’s vision of increasing ridership, growing our zero-emissions fleet, and incorporating affordable housing into Metro-owned facilities, so I am leaving the agency in capable hands.” Tree worked with the Metro board and staff on Reimagine Metro, an initiative that just launched in December. During his tenure he: • Launched Youth Cruz Free, allowing all K-12 students to ride the bus free of charge;
• Led the agency that wrapped buses to receive with iconic images grants of $148 of Monterey Bay million; and generated • Bought 57 $237,000 for local hydrogen fuelenvironmental cell electric nonprofit partners. buses (the So far, $42,000 has largest single been distributed. purchase of Ridership in h y d r o g e n the quarter from buses, at the July to September time, in North increased by 1% America); and compared to the • Incorporated prior year but it affordable remains down housing into 27.5% compared to Metro facilities, 2019. including Ridership by 128 units at youth and Cabrillo Pacific Station students increased in downtown but ridership by Santa Cruz UC Santa Cruz stuMichael Tree slated to start dents, non-students construction in February, and and Highway 17 commuters decreased. planning for the Watsonville Transit “On behalf of the Metro Board, I want Center to include 65 units. to thank Michael Tree for his numerous Tree and the staff launched One contributions and achievements for Ride at a Time, a rider loyalty program the agency,” said Shebreh KalantariJohnson, Metro Board of Director Chair. “Michael brought visionary leadership and incredible energy to the role of CEO. The programs and services he initiated
16 / February 1st 2024 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
“Monk of Mokha” from page 15 ••• Sunday, Feb. 18 Johann Sebastian Bach’s Coffee Cantata (live music) | 3 p.m. Bach’s aria will be sung by lyric coloraturasoprano Lori Schumann, co-founder of the Santa Cruz Opera Project. She will be accompanied by piano and flute. Come enjoy the music and learn about Bach’s relationship to coffee. (Hint: He drank 30 cups a day!) Learn a bit more from Dinah Phillips about the intertwined history of coffee and music over the years. Downtown Library Meeting Room, 2nd floor — 224 Church Street, Santa Cruz ••• Wednesday, Feb. 21 “A Small Section of the World” (film) & Coffee Tasting | 1 p.m. A moving documentary about a group of women in a small, remote farming community in Costa Rica as they spark a revolution in the coffee growing world. Stay to taste some Costa Rican coffee after the film. (Program ends at 2:30 p.m.) Felton Library Community Room ••• Saturday, Feb. 24 Verve Coffee Tour and Tasting (field trip) | 1 p.m. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the coffee
during his tenure go beyond providing world-class transportation to Santa Cruz County and rise to the level of true community building. The Board and the entire Metro team are committed to continuing to implement this vision.” The board was scheduled to meet Jan. 26 to discuss interim leadership. n
“My decision to leave the agency and the Santa Cruz community comes with a heavy heart but my decision was made for solely personal reasons related to my aging parents. The Metro Board and staff are fully committed to Metro’s vision of increasing ridership, growing our zero-emissions fleet, and incorporating affordable housing into Metro-owned facilities, so I am leaving the agency in capable hands.” — Michael Tree
roasting process and learn about the secret sauce behind third-wave coffee. Our tour leaders, Hannah Meade and Laney Drury, represent this world-famous coffee company headquartered in our own backyard. 104 Bronson St. Suite 19, Santa Cruz ••• Sunday, Feb. 25 Dror Sinai Musical Adventures | 4 p.m. “Rhythm is all around us, in everything we see, we touch, we breathe.” Experience this true force of nature as Dror Sinai shares his musical gifts and tells stories about his Yemeni roots. La Selva Beach Community Church — 26 Florido Ave., La Selva Beach ••• Tuesday, Feb. 27 Trivia Night | 6 p.m. The ever-popular 2nd District Supervisor Zach Friend poses challenging questions from The Monk of Mokha. Join us for a fun-filled evening. Bring your book club members, friends, or come solo to show off your knowledge of The Monk of Mokha and all things coffee-related. Dinner & Drinks available for purchase at this new venue. n 41st Ocean Breakfast & Grill — 2623 41st Ave, Soquel (behind Café Cruz)
COMMUNITY NEWS
Zero Emission Passenger Rail & Trail T he Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission is hosting two community open houses to obtain public input on the Zero Emission Passenger Rail and Trail Project’s preliminary purpose and need statement. In-person dates are: Monday, Feb. 12, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Ramsay Park Family Center, 1301 Main St., Watsonville, and Tuesday, Feb. 13, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Live Oak Grange, 1900 17th Ave. Comments can be made virtually at http://www.zeprt.com Feb. 5 through March 4. The project proposes high-capacity passenger rail service and stations on 22
miles of the Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line from the City of Santa Cruz to Pajaro, 12 miles of Coastal Rail Trail from Rio Del Mar Boulevard through La Selva Beach and Watsonville, and the Capitola Trestle reach. The documents identify the needs and constraints that drive the development of transportation improvements in the area and outlines opportunities to address these needs through the project. The public can provide input during the Feb. 1 RTC meeting (see meeting agenda for details) or email: zeprt@sccrtc.org. n ••• For info visit https://sccrtc.org/zeprt/.
CALIFORNIA NEWS Judge To Beverly Hills: Plan Affordable Housing, Then Permits OK
T
By Jondi Gumz
he nonprofit Californians for Homeownership funded by the California Association of Realtors has won a court ruling ordering a moratorium on home improvement permits in Beverly Hills because the city failed to plan for affordable housing. The ruling was by Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Curtis Kin, who questioned not allowing more affordable housing in the city’s more affluent areas. Beverly Hills plans to appeal the court ruling. State law requires cities and counties to adopt “housing elements,” plans that identify sites that could be developed into housing by 2029. Beverly Hills, an affluent city and home to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, has submitted five such plans to the state, but all have been rejected as inadequate. One problem is that Beverly Hills was counting on medical office buildings and car dealerships to transformed into housing, and state officials were skeptical. One example: A newly renovated Audi dealership on Wilshire Boulevard could turn into 41 apartments, according to the city. Beverly Hills was told by regulators to plan for 3,104 homes, with 75% affordable to low- and middle-income residents. The city tried to protect residential
neighborhoods with mega-mansions and apartment buildings by focusing new housing in commercial areas as “mixed-use development.” Because the state has not certified the Beverly Hills “housing element,” the city of 33,000 is open to the “builder’s remedy,” which allows developers proposing affordable homes to bypass local zoning restrictions. As February 2023, Californians for Homeownership, California Housing Defense Fund, and YIMBY Law had filed 12 lawsuits in Contra Costa, Santa Clara, Marin, and San Mateo County Superior Courts with the intention to file more in the coming weeks. The cities and counties sued include: Belvedere, Burlingame, Cupertino, Daly City, Fairfax, Martinez, Novato, Palo Alto, Pinole, Pleasant Hill, Richmond, and Santa Clara County. Matthew Gelfand, an attorney representing Californians for Homeownership, contends the governments that were sued “let the process get bogged down as the deadline approached, often as the result of opposition by anti-housing activists.” Sonja Trauss, YIMBY Law executive director, contends there is no excuse to not have an approved plan to build affordable housing: “Cities have had years to plan for this.” n
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Land & Sea Program
Second Harvest Delivers Fresh Produce & Fish at Schools
A
new initiative from Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County prioritizes locally sourced, sustainable produce and meat proteins for delivery to local schools, starting with Freedom Elementary and Live Oak Elementary. The “Land & Sea” initiative brings together the Farmer Equity Program, which supports BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color)-owned farms across Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey Counties, and supports the local fishing economy by sourcing nutritious seafood from Monterey Bay Fisheries Trust. The goals: Alleviate immediate food insecurity, lower food-miles, and circulate money in the local economy. Plus strengthen community ties, endorse organic sustainability practices, and enhance the well-being of the local region and its residents. Erica Padilla-Chavez, CEO, Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County, said, “This initiative is not just about providing food; it’s a commitment to nurturing our community, cultivating equity, and sowing the seeds of positive change. By working hand-in-hand with local farmers and fisheries, we’re filling stomachs and fostering a resilient and sustainable future for all. Together, we’re distributing food and cultivating change.” The Farmer Equity Program focuses on small-scale BIPOC growers and owners in the tri-county area. The intention is to prioritize underrepresented growers and embrace a grassroots approach that supports local farmers and strengthens community bonds. Antonio Luna, owner of Luna’s Farm, said, “The Farmer Equity Program allows Luna’s Farm to purchase items for 2024, like seeds, plants, and cover crop. We are very thankful to Second Harvest for buying produce from Luna’s Farm which helps
Ines Cartagena takes advantage of Second Harvest Food Bank’s delivery of fresh produce and fish at Live Oak Elementary. Luna’s Farm continue our mission of growing fresh, local, and organic produce.” Melissa Mahoney, executive director of Monterey Bay Fisheries Trust, said, “As a new partner in our Community Seafood Program, Second Harvest Food Bank will be able to help us put more local fish on local plates around Santa Cruz County and be able to amplify the impact our program has for both the fishermen and those receiving food distributions.” n
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Second Harvest Food Bank crew prepare grocery bags of fresh food for pickup at Live Oak Elementary.
COMMUNITY NEWS
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Help Eric and Heidi Find a Place to Live E ric and Heidi McFarland, who hosted the Central Coast Prescribed Burn Association pile burning workshop in Boulder Creek last year, lost their home in a house fire on Oct. 29 and are looking for help and a new place to live. This is their second time losing everything to a fire; their first house burned to the ground in the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex fire. In the October fire, everyone got out, including their dog, but the house and its contents are a total loss. The McFarlands have lived in Boulder Creek for about 30 years. They do not like to ask for help but they do not see another option. “We have no ability to rebuild either home without significant community involvement in helping us out,” they explain on their GoFundMe.com site, which has a goal of $50,000. The McFarlands raised three kids in Boulder Creek, Michaela, 26, Cole, 18, who just started college, and Lucas, 12. “No contribution is too small,” they say. “We greatly appreciate any support you can offer! “ If you are interested in helping these
friends of the Prescribed Burn Association, their Go Fund Me is at: http://tinyurl. com/ground-McFarland-newhome.
If anyone has leads on housing, either long term or temporary, in the San Lorenzo Valley or nearby, contact Michael Rhoades
at mrhoades66@gmail.com and he will pass that information on to Eric, Heidi and Lucas. n
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Saturday, March 2, 2024, 5:30 P.M. Information and Tickets at fairgrounds-foundation.org 20 / February 1st 2024 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Living on the Edge: Miracles in Hawaii By Barry and Joyce Vissell
W
hen leading a retreat, Joyce and I most want to create a safe container for the deepest personal growth work. It is this feeling of safety that allows participants to really open up. Unfortunately, that is NOT what happened in January, 1989, at a seven-day retreat on the Big Island of Hawaii. The universe stepped in to create the biggest challenges possible. Often, we don’t get what we want; but we do get what we need. But we can still create real safety. The first evening of the retreat, getting to know each other, setting our intentions for the week, went fine. The next morning’s session allowed everyone to be vulnerable, something we highly value. After lunch, with beautiful sunny weather, we decided to take everyone to the local black sand beach. Joyce, being six months pregnant, stayed back to swim in the pool. However, when we got there, and looked down from the edge of the cliff, we saw no one on the beach or in the water. The waves were huge, covering the entire beach and crashing into the walls of the cliff face. The locals told us emphatically not to even
go down to the beach, let alone go into the water. Before I could gather everyone together to explain the situation, a few of the young men from our group scampered down the trail to the beach. Many people yelled for them to come back, but the deafening sound of the waves prevented them from hearing us. A few of the locals chased down after them, but they were too late. It was between wave sets, and the ocean looked inviting, so two of the men from our group jumped into the ocean. Big mistake! The next huge set of monster waves rushed in. The two men, accustomed to the ocean, hurriedly swam out past the break to safer water. But safer was a relative term. The swells and turbulence proved too much for one of the men, and we could all see he was in trouble. A young man from our group, who happened to be a lifeguard, grabbed a surfboard and swam out after the big set was complete. He approached the man in trouble, just as he slipped under the water, and was able to grab his arm and pull him to
the surface. Everyone around us cheered to see this miraculous rescue. Meanwhile, the second man from our group did the unthinkable. Rather than trying to reach shore between the big wave sets, he scrambled up on the ocean side of a truck-sized boulder, hoping to be safe. Above the beach, we watched in horror as a monster wave rose up from the depths, at least 10 feet higher than the boulder, and bore down to crush him against the boulder. To everyone who watched from the cliff, it looked like certain death for this unfortunate soul. The wave crashed down on him, burying him under thousands of tons of water. He was gone for what seemed like an eternity. Then the wave receded, and there he was on the beach, without a scratch on him. Not one of us could explain how he got carried up and over the boulder, and deposited unscathed on the beach. The next day, we decided to avoid the beach and instead, go to see the lava flow into the ocean from the most active volcano
in the world, Kilauea. We had done this before, and it had always been safe. The type of lava flow is called Pahoehoe, a term describing slow-moving, oozing, sometimes ropey, lava. But when we arrived near the flow, the ground started to shake. Someone took a video of me telling the group to go no closer. I’m not a volcanologist, but it appeared there was an obstruction in the lava tube system, causing the quaking. While I was talking, you could see on the video the group filing past me, ignoring my warning. Then you could see me throwing up my hands in surrender and chasing after the group to keep them as safe as possible. Then the ground exploded, and a fountain of red lava shot a hundred feet into the air. I yelled for everyone to run, which we did. When we were far enough away, we turned and saw one man staying behind, taking photos of the eruption, while 2000degree lava splashed down around him, and all of us screamed at him in alarm, fear, and anger at his stupidity. “Hawaii” page 27
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PRO & CON
A Small Ask to Address Critical Local Needs
V
Taxation Without Representation
By Tim Willoughby and Linda Kerner
oters in Santa Cruz County will be asked to consider a one-half cent increase in retail sales transactions when they mark their ballots for the March 5 primary election. Measure K, the County sales tax ballot measure, would apply to the unincorporated areas of the county but it would provide essential local funding to support critical local needs countywide. In January, Measure K won the support of the Democratic Club of Santa Cruz County when club members voted to endorse the March ballot measure. While still reeling from the impacts of the devastating CZU fire in 2020, in January 2023, the county was hit with several severe atmospheric river storms that resulted in significant flooding, mudslides and damage to local roads, homes, and businesses. To respond to these disasters, the County activated its Emergency Operations Center to protect the lives and ensure the safety of county residents, maintain essential services, and keep residents informed of current conditions. These disasters resulted in significant increased costs to the county for wildfire prevention and recovery services, flood mitigation, emergency response and road repairs — and there is still much more work that remains to be done. The increased frequency and severity of natural disaster events due to climate change have wreaked havoc on the county budget. The County incurred increased response costs from Disaster Service Workers who were deployed across the county to protect the public and staff the emergency evacuation shelters. The County also obtained contractors to fortify the Pajaro River and other infrastructure at risk of failure. Now the County is dealing with managing resulting cash flow challenges while waiting for
By Tom Decker
PRO: Disasters resulted in significant increased costs to the county ... and there is still much more work that remains to be done. CON: Measure K is a clever scheme to get half the people in our county to vote to increase taxes on the other half of the people in order to pay for our county’s unfunded retirement pensions.
FEMA reimbursements for past and current disaster response. Measure K will provide funds for storm-related road and infrastructure repairs, but the funds will also help address other critical local needs, including support for more affordable housing for our county residents, emergency response services, and mental health services for children and other vulnerable populations. Without the additional revenue from Measure K, infrastructure repairs will take longer and some services to the community will need to be reduced. We believe that supporting Measure K is a small ask to help address the need to continue to provide critical essential services to county residents. It is estimated that half of the revenue raised from the ballot measure will be from tourists and shoppers visiting Santa Cruz Coounty. Essential purchases like groceries, prescription medicine, diapers and feminine hygiene products are exempt from the tax. The funds from the ballot measure would stay in Santa Cruz County and would fund local services and infrastructure upgrades and repairs. Revenue collected will help improve the quality of life for all residents in Santa Cruz County and we urge voters to vote yeas on Measure K! n ••• Tim Willoughby and Linda Kerner are members of the Democratic Club of North Santa Cruz County.
22 / February 1st 2024 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
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n Tuesday, January 9 at 6:30 p.m., my wife and I attended the monthly meeting of the Democratic Club of North Santa Cruz County at Bruno’s BBQ in Scotts Valley. This meeting was also the Democratic forum for the Democrat candidates running for Santa Cruz County supervisor for the 5th District. I haven’t been a member of the Democrat party since the Carter years. Nevertheless, I was allowed to be in attendance as a courtesy. I was not invited to participate in the candidates’ forum. I accepted that. This was their forum. I was an invited guest. Before the candidates made their opening statements, two presentations were given regarding Measure K. This measure is a local sales tax proposal that will be on the March 5 California primary ballot. Measure K, if passed by the taxpayers, will increase the sales tax by half a cent in the unincorporated areas of Santa Cruz County. Nicole Coburn presented the case for voting Yes on Measure K. She told us that Measure K will bring in an estimated $10 million dollars annually in new tax revenues to the county. Ms. Coburn said the Measure K tax revenues will be used to help fix our roads, invest in emergency preparedness, fight climate change, help the homeless and pay for other essential county services. Becky Steinbruner then made the case for No on Measure K. Ms. Steinbruner explained that 100% of the new tax revenues from Measure K would go directly into the Santa Cruz County’s general fund. She said there is no citizen oversight on the Measure K funds. The county can use them for anything they choose. An interesting bit of information came out when Nicole Coburn was asked a question after her presentation. Someone from the back of the room asked Ms. Coburn why everyone in the county was being allowed to vote on Measure K when only the people living in
Measure K
the unincorporated area would have to pay the new sales tax. Nicole Coburn explained that to increase taxes, state law requires that 66% of the taxpayers must vote to be taxed. She said our Board of Supervisors knew that was unlikely. So, they chose another way to get Measure K passed. The supervisors decided to put Measure K up for a countywide vote. The entire county will be allowed to vote on Measure K. Which means that a simple 50% plus one vote majority decides the measure. This is where the political cleverness comes in. Measure K now only needs a simple majority vote to pass. Half the people voting on Measure K wouldn’t be the ones paying the new sales tax. It will be very interesting to see if the people in the incorporated areas vote to tax their unincorporated neighbors. When I got home, I was bothered by what I had seen and heard. I went back over my research regarding the County of Santa Cruz General Fund and the 2023 Santa Cruz County Budget. I discovered that the County of Santa Cruz has a $43 million unfunded CALPERS pension liability that is coming due. Since the county’s CALPERS retirement system is a defined benefit pension system, which is the gold standard of pensions, by law the CALPERS retirement benefits must be paid from the county’s general fund before anything else is paid. That means that before wildfire response, or before giving money to retain frontline workers, or funds to increase services to vulnerable populations, or before anything — the retirement benefits are always paid first from the county’s general fund. So to sum it up, Measure K is a clever scheme to get half the people in our county to vote to increase taxes on the other half of the people in order to pay for our county’s unfunded retirement pensions. I’ll be voting No on Measure K. n ••• Tom Decker of Ben Lomond is running for Supervisor in the 5th District of Santa Cruz County.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Reading Pericles T he Saturday Shakespeare Club, with the Shakespeare Workshop at UC Santa Cruz, plans five weekly meetings on Pericles, via Zoom beginning Jan. 20. Each Saturday session lasts from 10 a.m. to noon, and usually includes a talk of about 45 minutes by an expert on Shakespeare followed by a reading aloud of a section of the text. In the past “Pericles” was rarely played, but it is now regarded quite highly. Most scholars accept that the play was co-authored by Shakespeare along with a dramatist and pamphleteer called George Wilkins. Perhaps because of co-authorship, the First Folio of 1623, the first collected edition of Shakespeare’s plays, did not include it. The schedule is: Jan. 20: Introducing the play will be Michael Warren, UCSC Professor of English literature Emeritus, and dramaturg for many Santa Cruz Shakespeare productions. Warren has regularly been the Club’s initial speaker, providing informative and thorough foundation for a play’s understanding. Jan. 27: Beth Lopes, a freelance theater director and educator based in Los Angeles, will speak. She has directed Pericles for the New Swan Theater at UC
Irvine. This past October, Beth spoke to the Saturday Shakespeare Club about her direction of “As You Like It” for the 2023 New Swan Shakespeare Festival—a talk that was received with much enthusiasm. Feb. 3: A recorded lecture by distinguished Oxford Shakespearean scholar Emma Smith on the First Folio, which was published 400 years ago, seven years after Shakespeare’s death. If not for the First Folio, about half of Shakespeare’s plays would almost certainly have been lost. Feb. 10: Julia Reinhard Lupton, a distinguished professor of English at UC Irvine and co-director of the New Swan Shakespeare Center, which partners with UCSC’s Shakespeare Workshop. Feb. 17: Viewing a DVD screening of the Stratford Festival Production of “The Adventures of Pericles.” There is no charge, but members are asked to contribute to Santa Cruz Shakespeare with a check, payable to Santa Cruz Shakespeare, to: Santa Cruz Shakespeare, 501 Upper Park Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95065. Or give at https://santacruz shakespeare.org/ n ••• For Zoom link, email saturdayshakespeare@ gmail.com.
Jobs in Santa Cruz County
Sector Dec. 2023 Private education & health 19,200 Government 19,000 Professional/business 11,300 services Leisure/hospitality 14,300 Other 5,400 Manufacturing 8,000 Construction 5,200 Financial 3,200 Information 500 Trade/transportation/ 17,100 utilities Nonfarm 103,200 Farm 3,500 Total 106,700 ~~~ Labor force 132,100 Employment* 123,300 Unemployment 8,700 Unemployment rate 6.6%
Change from Dec. 2022 Up 1,100 Up 700 Up 500
Up 500 Up 100 0 0 0 Down 100 Down 200 Up 2,600 Down 100 Up 2,500 Down .2% Down 1.6% Down 32% 5.0%
Count is on the 12th of the month *Includes commuters out of the county Source: California Employment Development Department ••• Unemployment in Santa Cruz County rose 6.6% in December from 5.6% in November. Unemployment remains low, compared to 17+% in 2020, fueled by pandemic restrictions. Telemynd is seeking a remote clinical social worker, paying $100,000 to $150,000 a year. Baskin Robbins is seeking counter help, paying $18-20 per hour. Peet’s in Capitola is seeking a barista, paying $13 to $19 per hour. Trader Joe’s in Capitola is seeking crew for the evening shift, paying $18 to $20 an hour. Target is seeking a cashier in Capitola, paying $17.75. n
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FEATURED COLUMNIST
What to Expect for Spring Break Travel By Christopher Elliott
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t’s not too soon to start thinking about your spring break. That’s because this spring break may be the busiest one — ever. Fortunately, it will also be one of the most affordable ones in years — but only if you do one thing. “You have to plan ahead,” says Sangeeta Sadarangani, CEO of Crossing, a multinational travel agency headquartered in London. “Beat the rush by booking your vacation in advance — ideally by January — to avoid last-minute airfare hikes and limited hotel availability.” There are ways to get ahead of the 2024 spring break crowds. The herd is moving to the same predictable places. Time is also on your side (at least if you’re reading this story in January). Plus, there are some spring break travel mistakes that I can help you avoid. I’ll tell you all about those in just a minute. Where’s Everyone Going This Year? rlando is the number-one spring break destination for domestic travel, according to research by Allianz Partners.
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In fact, Orlando has been the top U.S. destination for the last eight years. Internationally, Mexico dominates the list. Cancun and San Jose del Cabo came in first and second on the 2023 list, and Puerto Vallarta and Mexico City were in fourth and ninth place. Allianz expects the 2024 list to show more love for Florida and Mexico. Other travel companies are seeing similar trends. Arch RoamRight says the top destination for Americans is the United States, followed by Italy, Mexico, the Caribbean and New Zealand. So that’s probably where you’ll find a lot of spring breakers in 2024. People will be crowding to those places like never before, experts say. “Spring break will be very busy this year,” says Rob DelliBovi, founder of the hospitality recruiting firm RDB Hospitality. “The travel economy is fully back, with 2024 predicted to be the first year since COVID that beats out 2019.” In fact, crowds are inevitable if you’re traveling this spring. “If you want to avoid the crowds,
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consider traveling to destinations off the beaten path, and always plan ahead for travel delays,” advises Daniel Durazo, a spokesman for Allianz. You may also get a deal on your trip. But you have to move fast. What are Prices Like? pring break travel, which is defined as travel in March and April, is still quite affordable, according to early predictions. • Airfares are about the same as they were a year ago. The average domestic airfare is $267 during spring break, up about 1 percent from 2023, according to the travel app Hopper. Fares to Europe are also flat ($650 roundtrip). But if you want to visit Mexico and Central America, you’ll pay 14% less ($444) and destinations in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific are even cheaper -- down 26% ($1,160). • Car rental prices will average just $41 per day in the U.S., a 36 percent drop from last year. Rates vary based on location, says Hopper. A spring rental in Miami is just $19 per day. In Houston, you’ll pay $53. Rates in Orlando are around $31 a day. • Gas prices will fall to an average of $3.36 per gallon. That’s a drop of almost 5% from last year, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Experts are looking for prices to slide during the winter months, followed by a gradual increase by Memorial Day. • Lodging rates will average about $220 per night domestically. You’ll find the best deals in places like Las Vegas, where rooms go for just $125 a night. But destinations like New York, where rooms average $424 per night, may be out of reach for many traditional sun-and-fun spring breakers. (Hopper’s methodology for analyzing hotel rates changed from last year. But in 2023, lodging rates were 43% higher using the previous system.) Bottom line: If you book now, you could save some money. If you wait until February to start thinking about spring break, you’ll almost certainly pay more and might not even find a flight. Avoid These Mistakes pring break has its own pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes you’ll definitely want to avoid: Waiting Too Long to Book “The current travel climate requires more foresight,” says Fahd Khan, a marketing director for a private jet charter company.
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Illustration by Aren Elliott
“This spring break, the biggest mistake travelers make is underestimating the lead time needed for planning.” For tips on finding a travel advisor, see www.elliott.org/ultimate-consumer-guidessmart-travelers/the-ultimate-guide-to-findinga-travel-advisor/ Not Working With an Expert Given that this is going to be one of the busiest spring breaks in recent memory — and maybe ever — you may want to work with a professional. “This spring break is a different animal,” warns David Bakke, who publishes a personal finance site. Being Inflexible Lee Friedman, an expert on Caribbean travel, says by mid-January, she already had 25 families booked for vacations. But she noticed that many of them were stuck on leaving and returning on weekends — when everyone else wants to travel. And they insisted on having nonstop flights. But a little flexibility can save a lot of money. “For families experiencing sticker shock for flight prices, consider taking the kids out of school for one day to travel on a Friday or Monday. Or, consider an overnight stay at a connecting airport, such as Miami International or JFK, to keep prices down.” And if you’re booking non-refundable items, or flying to your destination, don’t forget travel insurance. You’ll want to buy coverage as soon as you book your trip, says Carol Mueller, a vice president at Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection. “That will ensure coverage in case of unforeseen events,” she says. (I have more strategies in my ultimate guide to spring break travel on my consumer advocacy site, Elliott.org.) What’s the Alternative? Reality check: Traveling during spring break could be madness. Martha Miller, an author who lives in Valencia, Spain, recalls planning a spring break trip to Seville recently. “Travel” page 26
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Why Isn’t Water Free?
S
ince 1961, Soquel Creek Water District has been a faithful and reliable service provider to our Santa Cruz Mid-County customers. As a local, notfor-profit water district, we take great pride in providing safe, reliable water and dependable customer service. The District is in the process of studying the water rates and considering rate increases in an open, transparent manner. We understand that water rates, like other utility charges, directly impact our customers and the community. The Board of Directors and several of our staff are also rate-paying customers, and all of us truly care about this community that we serve. Our staff take their jobs and responsibility to serve our customers very seriously and we are committed to ensuring the District can provide safe, high-quality water and protect the groundwater basin for decades to come. Our costs to deliver the water service that customers expect are rising and changing. We are not alone; utility costs have increased across California. Costs have risen for critical capital projects, as well as for energy, fuel, equipment, parts, labor, and toward meeting regulatory requirements. Just like any business, as these costs change, our rates and charges must reflect the cost of providing the service. Here are several important factors to
By Rebecca Gold Rubin
consider about the water and services we provide and the essential role of water rates: 1. Water rates are more than just a financial transaction; they reflect our societal values. Investing in vital water infrastructure — mostly invisible in our daily lives — ensures clean, safe, and reliable water for over 40,000 people in the District, along with essential services to schools, parks, and businesses. 2. It’s important that aging pipelines, groundwater wells, water distribution systems, and storage tanks are regularly maintained so that we can provide reliable water, 24 hours a day/ 365 days a year. Our customers rely on us for meeting their daily water needs and for providing water for fire protection. We also have interties with neighboring agencies to provide aid in times of emergencies. 3. Our groundwater basin remains critically overdrafted with seawater intrusion and contamination at our coastline. The Pure Water Soquel project is sorely needed and will remedy this trend. In 2014 the state of California designated our basin as critically overdrafted (1 of 21 in the state) and it must reach a state mandate of sustainability by 2040. Pure Water Soquel will help meet this mandate and protect our basin from further seawater intrusion.
4. We proudly meet state and federal regulatory requirements. Stringent regulations ensure that water treatment adheres to the highest standards, guaranteeing the delivery of water free from contaminants. Compliance with these regulations means adapting to new requirements, implementing ongoing technological advancements, rigorous water quality monitoring, and skilled personnel, all of which come at a considerable cost. 5. The rate setting process was data
driven with customer input: The process of setting rates is not arbitrary; it’s based on data analysis, financial planning, and social considerations. We engaged a Water Rates Advisory Committee comprised of 10 customers and two board members during this process to incorporate diverse perspectives and ensure that decisions are grounded in the principles of equity and community needs. “Water Rates” page 27
Classic Toys
ACROSS 1. Sri Lankan language 6. Something to chew on, especially for cows 9. Mascara holder 13. Muscat resident 14. “____ Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” 15. Father, colloquially 16. Jewish folklore creature 17. Debtor’s letters 18. Art class prop 19. *Barbie’s little sister 21. *____4 game 23. One less than jack 24. *____Frog educational toy
25. Nutcracker’s distinguishing feature 28. Taboo, alt. sp. 30. Cooking fat 35. Deserter’s acronym 37. President’s David 39. Shower accessory 40. Pro ____ 41. Conical dwellings 43. Prep flour 44. *Thomas or Henry, e.g. 46. Law school test acronym 47. Genealogist’s creation 48. Maurice of “Where the Wild Things Are” 50. Flying saucers 52. Make mistakes 53. Chemically-induced curls 55. Harry Potter’s Hedwig
57. *Certain Patch 61. *Not real dough 65. Normal 66. Clingy seed container 68. ____-____-la 69. Theater curtain fabric 70. Put into service 71. Female deer, pl. 72. Pub offering 73. Goo on a trunk 74. What’s in your e-wallet?
DOWN 1. Duds or threads 2. Wildly 3. French Sudan after 1960 4. All thumbs 5. Marine gastropod 6. Coconut fiber
7. *Shedding-type card game 8. Tie in tennis 9. Shark’s provision 10. Part of cathedral 11. Work detail 12. “Stop!” to marchers 15. Correspondence friend (2 words) 20. Make, as in a law 22. Edible type of grass 24. Complete payment (2 words) 25. *Banned lawn darts 26. Fully informed 27. Supreme Teutonic god 29. Get-out-of-jail money 31. Like Neverland boys 32. France’s longest river 33. Bid on a house, e.g. 34. *Certain gun ammo
36. “Best ____ schemes o’Mice an’ Men” 38. “La Vie en rose” singer 42. Counter seat 45. Flamethrower fuel 49. Party barrel 51. Swaddle 54. Type of puzzle 56. Words in song, sing. 57. Intersection of two arcs 58. Ascus, pl. 59. “____ after reading” 60. Switch’s partner 61. Get ready, for short 62. Comedian Carvey 63. Ford contemporary 64. Jumble 67. North American country
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Answers on 25 »
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / February 1st 2024 / 25
I Was Wondering — What is the Sound of Humanity’s Freedom? Esoteric Astrology • February 2024 • By Risa D’Angeles
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nd so, the transformative planet Pluto entered Aquarius, sign of humanity itself, of freedom, of hopes, wishes and dreams of a new future, of community and cooperation and charity, last Saturday, January 20th. After fifteen years in the earth sign of Capricorn, Pluto will be in the air sign of Aquarius (in and out a few times) for the next 20 years — ‘til 2043! And so I am wondering these things and this has been on my mind. What will be the sound of our entire society of people in every country, everywhere in the world - what will be the sound of their response as Pluto moves through Aquarius, sign of freedom, liberty, self-determination, sovereignty and independence? What will be the sound of humanity’s response to this change? As Pluto moves forward in Aquarius, unimpeded, I am wondering what will be the responses and sounds, reverberations and expressions, the music and the arts of the people in the world as this critical shift of energy, element and vibration unfold. Like the soft petals of a lotus, we hope. ARIES
What will be the sounds we hear in the new world, what will be the new narratives, the new friendships, new trends, new order of things? How will our innate sense of freedom evolve, grow, progress, advance, expand and display itself in daily life? I am wondering these things. Perhaps we hear or sense a longing for vision, for community in humanity, impossible to describe. The keynotes of Aquarius. Aquarius is the light that shine on Earth and across the seas. The light that shines within the dark, cleansing with its healing rays, that which must be purified until the dark is gone. Aquarius is the “electrical waters of life poured forth for thirsty humanity.” During the month of Aquarius disciples read the Labors of Hercules (the 11th Labor, Aquarius). Humanity itself is Hercules. The 11th Labor is the cleansing of the stables (casting a cleansing light onto the darkness allowed to be seen in the Kali Yuga). Here is a link so you can join us, the New Group of World Servers, in reading — https://www.bailey.it/ files/Labours-of-Hercules.pdf
LEO
SAGITTARIUS
You long to be free to pursue your usual pleasures and enjoyments. However ambition and success call and that requires Saturnian discipline and the full completion of all tasks, something unusual and not easy for Aries. Where is Taurus, you ask, the one who comes in and completes everything? Things silent, quiet and hidden increase around you. Imaginative ideas fill your mind. Something’s changing within you. It’s good and will be vital for the unfolding of the new era.
Many obligations will be met this month and though important it can result in much too much work. However you are ethical and will persevere and when you have completed these tasks a sense of self-worth emerges. Something may come to a crisis in the months leading up to June. It’s perhaps something that occurs to you in terms of remembering how you have cared for (or didn’t) others., How you may or may not have loved and valued those in your care. Visualize what could have been. Then a healing comes forth.
Your values, what you value, who is of value, you as valuable – these continue to be questions you are pondering. I suggest no traveling until after mid-March. Situations can feel empty ‘til then. Are unclear financial situations coming into focus? And how is your home life? Something feels challenging or limited or restricted there? Or perhaps new responsibilities have been incurred. A new structure or new foundation may be needed. Everything increases in value. Think, gather, find, share. Your keynotes.
TAURUS
VIRGO
Things were going along smoothly (somewhat) and then Pluto shifted into Aquarius. This is good. It allows Capricorns to assess their resources, and to see the self as a vital resource to the family. You may ask what new persona you want to project into the world. A transformation of self along with values will slowly unfold in the next months and years. New learnings will take place. Perhaps a study group will emerge. Whenever conflicts arise seek to find and then radiate the “love that truly underlies all events.”
LIBRA
Many new ideas are occurring and these are stimulated by Sun in Aquarius. The new era is also stimulating you to make changes concerning old beliefs and long held ideas no longer useful. Has communication been difficult and are relationships a bit conflictual? Great things are in store for you in the coming months. Do take the time to listen quietly to your higher mind and open heart. Follow what inspires you and aim as high as you can. The new era calls to you. It needs teachers.
GEMINI
Things, people, events, ideas, everything in daily life may feel stalled, a feeling that nothing’s really happening. The reality is everything’s going into deeper layers of review and reflection. New structures are being called forth. All outer structures are slowly disappearing. There’s a question about your home. Is something occurring there? New people, new pets, new decor? The past is slowly coming into focus. Your interpretations of the past need review and revamping. It needs more love and care. You will learn this as the months unfold.
It’s good to have time alone, in solitude and quiet for lengths of time so you can rest, relax and rejuvenate. During this time it’s important to recognize your needs, then you can assess the needs of others. When we look through this lens of need, the entire world shifts. Know that beginning now and for the next year or so, your money, finances, resources, values and all that you possess become important. Use your money very wisely. And praise those who have the courage of their convictions. Soon it will be time to evaluate what to do for Valentine’s Day. Something to do with the heart.
CANCER
SCORPIO
There are presently two planets in Pisces – Saturn which creates structures, discipline and is the teacher. And Neptune, offering us other worlds to contemplate. Both influence Pisces. Saturn offers the intelligence needed and Neptune, with its deep compassion fuses heart and mind. Then wisdom emerges. For long you’ve wanted to bring forth something in form and matter. This will call for mental realms of thought which will assist in this creation. Visualize what is needed, bless it daily and see it as beauty to be shared in the world. This is magical work.
CAPRICORN
You’re called to be in the spotlight, to teach, mentor, lead and organize. Perhaps you are a co-teacher, or co-chairing a group, calling them to imagine, to envision and to help create a future different than the past. This takes you into a new life-direction that includes the arts which will define you more completely. The arts also highlight previous gifts from the past. You’re now more than ready to accomplish objectives. Remember to build the green house and the warm pool.
It’s good to assess and revise any monetary situation that is becoming too much to handle. And to be very careful with finances on all levels. What helps in this situation is to value all people, resources and interactions. It’s also important to recognize the intuition (Pallas Athena) you bring into daily life. This gift builds and strengthens your self-identity. Tend to your creative gifts – Mars is calling you in your house of creations. It’s almost time to plant spring seedlings!
AQUARIUS
PISCES
Aquarius is pouring it’s healing waters into your heart and mind. Therefore, you will experience many expansive changes in the coming months in terms of how and what you think, what your ideals and goals are and your knowledge of the world. Travel is important now during the springtime. Travel, new destinations, new books and contact with people of different cultures, one in particular should be considered. It would be good to ask if you are as sensitive as you can be with others. Sensitive meaning “acting from the heart of the matter.”
Your usual creativity edges sideways giving you opportunity and inclination to make changes in terms of how much time you give to your artistry, how much time you are out and about in the world and how much time you actually give to those around you. A new exploration is beginning into your emotional world. And new life paths appear. So many times this year you’ve wanted to hide. A new level of pleasure and gladness are sought, new goals, too. But the call to artistry is what is most heard. •••
Risa D’Angeles • www.nightlightnews.org • risagoodwill@gmail.com 26 / February 1st 2024 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
“Travel” from page 24 “My son had 10 days or so off from school, but I didn’t realize it coincided with the Easter holidays,” she recalls. “I also didn’t realize how important those holidays are here, especially in Seville.” Hotels were overpriced, she paid $800 for a rental car, and she could never find parking. The attractions were often inaccessible because of the Easter festivities. It was, she says, “a huge mistake.” What should she have done? Waited. “It would have been less expensive,” she says. And less busy. Some travelers are skipping spring break entirely. “We’ve noticed airline tickets and hotel costs continuing to go up, up, up,” says Michelle Long, who works for a retail company in Austin, Texas. “I think we might just stay home this year and plan something after spring break. We’ll save money, deal with less crowds and have better control of our experience.” Elliott’s Tips No question about it, this spring break will be the one against which other spring breaks will be measured. In just a few weeks, fares and hotel rates will probably start to climb, and we’ll see record visitation at traditional spring break destinations. “This spring break will set a new standard,” says Syed Lateef, CEO of a vacation rental company based in Chicago. So how do you get ahead of it? Plan an Alternative Spring Break Book your trip for early February or late April. Even with kids in school, there are ways around traveling during spring break. Plan a long weekend by taking a Friday or Monday off. Or schedule your travel around a school-sponsored event that you don’t have to attend, such as exams or teacher conferences. It doesn’t even have to be a whole week. Visit a B-list Destination Durazo, the Allianz spokesman, is right: Many people are headed to Orlando for spring break, so you’ll want to stay away during the busy times (but go in May and September, which are notoriously slow). Instead, set your sights on a B-list destination for spring, such as a northern beach resort. I’ve spent spring break in places like Savannah, Ga., and Charleston, S.C., and they are fun and not too crowded. Skip It This might be the year to skip spring break altogether. Instead, save your money and plan a trip in mid-May, just before the Memorial Day holiday. You’ll spend less than you would during the summer — airfares and hotel rates will be lower — and you’ll still get the warm weather (depending on where you go). n ••• Christopher Elliott is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded Elliott Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes Elliott Confidential, a travel newsletter, and the Elliott Report, a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can email him at chris@elliott.org.
“Hawaii” from page 21 To our relief, he finally joined us. Some of us hugged him. Others yelled at him. But we were not safe yet. A cloud of smoke and ash enveloped us, and we felt our skin begin to burn from the acid in the air. Again, I yelled for everyone to run. Was this a retreat, or was it a movie? That evening, there was intense processing. People were scared, even traumatized. A few people were angry at the men who put their own lives at risk. But most people were also grateful for the angels’ protection of all of us. For the following day’s afternoon outing, Joyce and I decided on something soothing and nurturing, a tiny gem of a pond named Pohoiki, slightly bigger than a large hot tub, surrounded by jungle, and delightfully warmed from underground steam vents to about 98 degrees. About twenty of us, including Joyce, made our way into the pond, and were relaxing and singing, when we looked up and saw another member of our group approach the pool. This man had late-stage AIDS, had not much longer to live, and his positive attitude about life and death was an inspiration to us all. However, he had a cut on his shin that was bleeding profusely down his leg, and he seemed completely unaware of this injury. He entered the water, and we all watched his blood diffuse into the water. That evening, most of the people who were in that pond shared their fear about getting AIDS. As a medical doctor, I knew the chances of getting infected by the AIDS virus from blood in the water were miniscule. But a member of our group just happened to be a medical doctor who specialized in AIDS, and he was finally able to reassure the group. Oh, and finally, on the fourth day of our “retreat,” a newly pregnant woman suddenly developed severe lower abdominal pain, and was rushed to the emergency room in Hilo with possible ectopic pregnancy, a life-threatening emergency. Luckily, it turned out that she was fine, and came back late that night. So, would you call this a relaxing retreat? I don’t think so. Growthful? Absolutely! We don’t believe that any other retreat, before or since, bonded the participants in this way.
“Water Rates” from page 25
This approach was insightful when considering water costs are shared fairly among all customers based on their collective uses [or demands on the system], and collective responsibility towards environmental stewardship and basin sustainability. 6. The proposed revised rate structure is partially driven by the District’s guiding principles of increased equitability and fairness.
Joyce and Barry Vissell at a retreat on the Big Island of Hawaii To this day, we sometimes hear from people who were at that retreat. Each person vividly remembers the intensity of the events that united us all in a special way. Each person opened to a spiritual dimension of life, a deeper awareness of heavenly intervention, and their lives were changed for the better. Would we have chosen this kind of retreat? Of course not. But this is life! Sometimes it’s incredibly difficult. We always have a choice in our reaction to the
challenges. We can grumble, or we can be thankful. By the way, the official title of the retreat was “Living from the Heart.” Sometime during the retreat, the name became changed to “Living on the Edge.” And, reflecting on this, I realize that truly living from the heart is exactly living on the edge. We can step off this edge and fall, or we can spread our wings and fly. n •••
A Couple of Miracles: One Couple, More Than a Few Miracles. Semi-Finalist, Book of the Year, Online Book Club. Available for $18.95 on Amazon.com Joyce & Barry Vissell, a nurse/therapist and psychiatrist couple since 1964, are counselors in Aptos who are passionate about conscious relationship and personal-spiritual growth. They are the authors of 10 books and a free audio album of sacred songs and chants. Visit their web site at SharedHeart.org
Basin-wide benefits of replenishment of the overdrafted condition, protection against further seawater intrusion, and aiding in meeting the state basin sustainability mandate are now also included in our fixed charge. The environmental stewardship of protection against further seawater intrusion and aiding in meeting the state basin sustainability mandate are now more proportionally included for all customers, not just the high-water users (which includes large families).
7. The rates include several measures to reduce expenses for our customers. We are a ‘small but mighty’ staff that has implemented new technology to improve our operational efficiency such as smart meters. We’ve also secured more than $95 million in state and federal grants and lower-interest loans, saving another $45 million in debt service. Water rates are not just about covering operating costs; they are about valuing our water, our community, and our planet. We
have an obligation and broader environmental responsibility to use water efficiently. This instills in us that every drop counts and that every decision we make in managing water resources is guided by the principles of sustainability, equity, and shared responsibility for our collective future. n ••• Join us at our Water Rates Open House on Feb. 8 at Temple Beth El in Aptos. Visit soquelcreek water.org/ratestudy for all the details.
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR includes solo and group shows, collaborative partnerships, and the return of its biennial, countywide multi-arts festival. Highlights from the season include: the return of the MATH CIRCLE FOR KIDS Rydell Visual Arts Fellowship showcase; a retrospective Does your student love mathematics? If so, the Santa of renowned landscape painter Richard Mayhew; a group Cruz Math Circle is a weekly math meeting for grade The online application is at: http://www.agri-culture.us/ exhibition about Filipino migration and labor in the Pajaro 5-8 students meet with math professionals to work on Valley presented with UC Santa Cruz; an exploration of scholarships/ interesting problems and topics beyond the standard photographic media with Ansel Adams, Norman Locks, ••• classroom curriculum. Karolina Karlic, Shelby Graham, Binh Danh, and Edgar To request an application, contact the Financial Aid office at Dates: Saturdays Feb. 3 — March 23 from 10 a.m.— Cruz; a touring exhibition of works by contemporary Black your school or the Agri-Culture office, 141 Monte Vista Ave., noon at the Cabrillo College 300 building in Aptos. artists including Ed Clark, Tunji Adeniyi-Jones, Mickalene Watsonville or call (831) 722-6622 or (831) 818-1193 or email: Fee: $125; scholarships available. Thomas, Kara Walker, Tavares Strachan, among others; agri-culture@sbcglobal.net The instructors are mathematicians, scientists and CommonGround, a 10-day festival of outdoor art and engineers who use math every day. performance hosted across the county; and an in-gallery, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SOUGHT The Curious World of Seaweed Register at: https://www.xacademy.org/ immersive Afrospeculative experience featuring Bay Area Leadership Santa Cruz County is now hiring an executive director, highlights Indigenous peoples’ and women’s connections muralists Timothy B, Zoe Boston, and Shogun Shido.. a part time position with salary commensurate to experience. COUNTY SURVEY ON AGING to seaweed and its vital role as the base of the food chain. MAH is located at 705 Front St. in Santa Cruz. The executive director is responsible for carrying out To initiate Age Well Santa Cruz County, a new county Seaweeds have three requirements for survival: Somethe mission of the organization under the direction of the initiative, a local survey launched on Jan. 8 to collect thing to hold onto, sunlight to provide energy, and nutrients Board of Directors. Applicants should be familiar with the ARTS DIRECTOR SOUGHT community feedback focused on aging. The deadline to to fuel growth. They find these three elements in a thin Pajaro Valley Arts seeks a dynamic and experienced leader respond is March 31. section of the ocean, which accounts for less than 2% of inner workings of Santa Cruz County’s institutions, its to serve as executive director to advance the mission decision makers, and current affairs. The survey is supported by a steering committee of engaged the sea floor. Yet seaweeds are supreme eco-engineers, of the organization: Bringing the Community Together The executive director plans and coordinates the program community members and outreach efforts to maximize oxygenating the waters and creating habitats for countless Through the Arts. for each class year and is expected to be active and community participation will take place widely. Results from the organisms, keeping our planet opulently rich in life. PVA has a vibrant exhibit program and blossoming visible in the community working with other governmental, survey will inform the local master plan goals. Iselin, who teaches in the School of Design at San Franbusiness, and nonprofit organizations. This position requires arts education programs housed in a 1,200-square foot Age Well Santa Cruz County will partner with orgacisco State University, has a bachelor’s degree in visual nizations, businesses, clubs, agencies and individuals and environmental studies from Harvard and a master’s in strong skills in organizational planning and program devel- gallery. Responsibilities include leading a capital campaign opment, public speaking, group facilitation skills, budgeting, to remodel the Porter Building, a 12,000-square foot comthroughout Santa Cruz County to ensure as many people fine arts from SFSU. as possible participate in the survey. “The Curious World of Seaweed,” released by Heyday Books in and knowledge of fundraising strategies and opportunities. munity facility in downtown Watsonville (owned debt-free) Graduates of Leadership Santa Cruz County or a similar to expand programming. The survey is online at www.wagewellsantacruzcounty. August 2019, was shortlisted for the Northern California Book The ideal candidate will be a visionary who has program are preferred. org and www.buenavejezcondadodesantacruz.org. For Award and the Alice Award, recognizing illustrated books. outstanding management, development, organizational, More than 1,600 individuals have graduated from questions, email AgeWell@santacruzcountyca.gov and communication skills/experience. Bilingual/Spanish To request a paper survey in English or Spanish call (831) 454-4397. AGRI-CULTURE SCHOLARSHIPS DEADLINE APPROACHING Leadership Santa Cruz County since it was founded in and arts programming experience are highly desirable. 1985 to enhance the civic participation of emerging Agri-Culture is accepting applications for six scholarships. This is a part-time (20-29 hours per week) position, with community leaders. WAS YOUR HOME IMPACTED The deadline is: Feb.16. the possibility of becoming full-time as programming If interested, submit resume to: lmurphy@cityofsantacruz. BY A FEDERALLY DECLARED DISASTER? The six scholarships are: expands at the new facility. com with a minimum of three references. More information: If you are a Santa Cruz County property owner whose Jimmie Cox Memorial Scholarship ($4,000) — for The position is at-will, paid hourly and does not include leadershipsantacruzcounty.org. home was impacted by the 2020 CZU fire or either of the a student entering or currently attending college and health benefits. The executive director serves at the Winter Storm disasters of 2023, the Santa Cruz County majoring in agriculture. This award includes $2,000 from pleasure of the Board of Directors. Pay commensurate CALL TO ARTISTS Office of Recovery & Resilience is seeking your feedback American AgCredit. with experience $40-$55 per hour. The Recovery Center in Santa Cruz has put out a Call to on the rebuild process and new financial recovery support Jeannie Witmer Memorial Scholarship ($1,500) — Artists to develop a site-specific public art component for To apply, send a resume and cover letter to apply@pvarts.org resources may be available. for a student active (past or present) in California High their 265 Water St. location. Share your experience via anonymous survey. Your School Rodeo Association District 4 or California 4-H LIBRARY CHIEF SOUGHT feedback will help county staff better understand re-build Horse Program, entering or currently attending college and The deadline to submit a proposal is March 1. The Santa Cruz Public Library System is seeking an Janus of Santa Cruz will operate and staff the center, barriers and improve county ability to support your majoring in agriculture and/or animal sciences. providing a safe environment for non-violent intoxicated experienced professional librarian and leader to serve recovery goals. It may also help open additional doors to J.J. Crosetti, Jr. Memorial Scholarship ($1,000) — individuals to rest and recover until they are sober. The as head librarian for the Santa Cruz City/County Library support your recovery. for a student entering or currently attending college and System, which has branches around the county. Recovery Center will provide treatment options, and The survey is at http://tinyurl.com/2023-winter-storm-survey majoring in agriculture. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 4. links to case managers, physicians and more. Laura Brown Memorial Scholarship ($2,000) — for a The salary is $178,212 to $227,352 annually. COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM student entering or currently attending college and majoring The budget for the public artwork, which includes all To review the comprehensive advertising brochure including costs associated with but not limited to design, materials, CERT Basic Training is free. The 21-hour course is conducted in agriculture or a related field or majoring in culinary arts. by FEMA-certified instructors, with classroom and hands-on Frank Prevedelli Memorial Scholarship ($1,000) — travel, insurance, fabrication, installation, and documen- job requirements, compensation and benefits, go to https:// www.cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-departments/ tation, is $6,300. training on weekday evenings and/or weekend days. for a student entering or currently attending college and Details at https://www.scparks.com/Home/AboutUs/WorkWithUs/ human-resources/city-jobs/library-director-recruitment. Training covers: Disaster Preparedness, Fire Supmajoring in agriculture or a related field. For questions, contact Teri Black & Company, LLC at www. pression, Medical Aid, Search and Rescue, Disaster Lou & Carol Calcagno Memorial Scholarship ($1,000) CalltoArtists.aspx. tbcrecruiting.com. Psychology, & Terrorism Response, Team Organization, — for a student entering or currently attending college and MAH 2024 EXHIBITIONS AND PROJECTS Disaster Simulation majoring in agriculture, or a related field, political science, Upcoming Classes history, marine biology, wildlife management, or culinary arts. The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (MAH) is pleased LEAP OF KINDNESS DAY February 29 happens every four years, so why not do to announce its exhibition program for 2024, which • NEW! Central Fire Admin Building, Live Oak. 4 something extra special with that extra day. The Pajaro Thursday evenings and one full Saturday. Begins Valley Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture asks Thursday, Feb. 22 DR. MICHAEL GREGER: HOW NOT TO AGE everyone to participate in Leap of Kindness Day. • NEW! Loma Prieta Elementary, Loma Prieta. 4 Consider donating your time and talent to help local Saturday February 3 Thursday evenings and one full Saturday. Begins people, charities and non-profit organizations. It’s an Thursday, April 18 7-9 p.m., Rio Theatre, 1205 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz excellent opportunity to thank first responders, nurses and Register at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/CERTBasic#/ Best-selling author and physician Dr. Michael Greger will speak at the Rio Theatre on Veterans too. Sign up for the class you want using the class tab or drop-down “How Not to Age,” which is the title of his newest book. Non-profits are encouraged to email Info@pajarovalley tab, not the landing page. Bookshop Santa Cruz is cosponsoring the event, with all proceeds going to nonprofits chamber.com to share what your organization needs. These Eat for the Earth, Santa Cruz VegFest, Center for Farmworker Families and Vegan requests will be shared on the Chamber’s Instagram page. CURIOUS WORLD OF SEAWEED Outreach. Businesses: Let us know what you plan to do for Leap of The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History presents Dr. Greger is on a nationwide tour, presenting his latest book, How Kindness Day so you get an Instagram shout-out! “The Curious World of Seaweed,” an extraordinary Not to Age: The Scientific Approach to Getting Healthier as exhibition featuring captivating color You Get Older. He will share simple, accessible, and evidence-based COUNTY FAIR BOARD MEETINGS portraits of seaweed based on the methods to preserve your body and keep you feeling youthful, physiThe Santa Cruz County Fair Board will meet each month in book by photographer and author cally and mentally. 2024 except September and November. Josie Iselin through March 3. The event will feature whole-food, plant-based appetizers created by Eat for the Earth, Remaining dates are Feb. 27, March 26, April 23, May A low tide walk is scheduled Jan. including: Savory Mushroom Poppers, Artisan Cultured Nut Cheese Mini-Sandwiches on Onion28, June 25, July 23, Aug. 27, Oct. 22, and Dec. 3. 20, with an author presentation at Flax Bread and Carob Mint Pie with Coconut Crust There is no meeting in September or November. the Museum on Feb. 15. The exhibit Tickets are $25 at bit.ly/GregerSantaCruz Meetings typically begin at 1:30 p.m. on the fourth Josie Iselin in partnership with Exhibit Envoy
ANNOUNCEMENTS
28 / February 1st 2024 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
Have a virtual or live event you want to promote? Send your information to info@cyber-times.com by February 7
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Club members will finalize the plan to celebrate the seven 2024 Live Your Dream winners at an awards ceremony in March, and review the possibility of a new “Big Goal” project. For information, visit www.best4women.org, or email sicapitola. by.the.sea@gmail.com ••• Soroptimist International of Capitola-by-the-Sea is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training to achieve economic empowerment. Soroptimist is a Latin phrase meaning Best for Women.
Tuesday in the Heritage Building at the fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Blvd., Watsonville. For agendas, posted 10 days in advance, see santacruzcountyfair.com
ONGOING EVENTS Ongoing thru May 12 RICHARD MAYHEW: INNER TERRAIN Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, 705 Front St. A rare and timely exhibition of the artwork of Soquel artist Richard Mayhew (b. 1924) at the Museum of Art & History, feature works that speak to American arts, culture, and history. Mayhew blends multiple genres including Baroque landscape, Impressionism, plein-air, Abstract Expressionism, and Color Field painting using mechanisms from each. He calls his landscapes “moodscapes” as an introspective excavation of the terrain of his mind. This exhibition — guest curated by Shelby Graham and Kajahl — is presented with support from Community Foundation Santa Cruz County and Santa Cruz County Bank. Mondays BRIDGE CLUB 10:30 a.m.-Noon, 7695 Soquel Dr, Aptos, CA 95003 The Capitola Branch Library will host Bridge Club sessions on Mondays (except holidays). Bridge Club will move to Aptos Library after it opens Feb. 4. Bridge Club is a partnership between Santa Cruz County Parks and Santa Cruz Public Libraries. Register at scparks.com or in-person the day of the event.
Friday February 23
LA SELVA BEACH WINTER FAIR Saturday February 10
10 a.m.-4 p.m., La Selva Beach Clubhouse & Lawn, 314 Estrella Ave. Come to the La Selva Beach Winter Fair at the La Selva Beach Clubhouse & Lawn for unique shopping, great deals on books, and delicious food! This event is scheduled to make up for the holiday fair cancelled by inclement weather. More 40 art and craft vendors will showcase handmade jewelry, art, pottery, bags, candles, soaps, plants, woodcraft, home decor and more. Perfect timing for Valentine’s Day and early Mother’s Day gifts. Friends of La Selva Beach Library will host a used book sale with books in all genres at great prices. Admission is free! Nibble on homemade baked goods and sip hot drinks — proceeds go to La Selva Beach Library Teens program. Local favorite food truck “Tacos el Jesse” will sell Mexican specialties for lunch, snacks or early dinner. The Library Teens will sell raffle tickets and draw winners throughout the day for fine art and craft prizes donated by vendors. The event is sponsored by La Selva Beach Improvement Association and the Friends of La Selva Beach Library. For information: booksandbrewsLSB@gmail.com
CABRILLO COLLEGE MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID TRAINING 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Cabrillo College Room 913, 6500 Soquel Dr, Aptos This training — valued at $150 — is free for students and staff of Cabrillo College, open to community members for a $50 fee. This is a blended training: Part 1) 2-Hours Independent Pre-Work due by Feb. 21 Part 2) In-Person Live Training on Feb. 23 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. This training is open to all students and employees of Cabrillo College interested in: • Becoming certified in mental health first aid • Learning how to help others in distress • Gaining knowledge of signs, symptoms, and risk factors of mental illnesses and addictions • Engaging in experiential activities that build an understanding of mental illness • Learning about evidence-supported treatment & self-help strategies • Increasing personal mental wellness Register at http://tinyurl.com/cabrillo-mental-1st-aid.
Saturday February 24
AAUW INTER-BRANCH COUNCIL LUNCHEON 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Dr, Aptos This event is free to MBEP members, $39 for the general California Women are Essential: American Association of Schwartz, will attend a forum and luncheon sponsored by public. the Aptos Chamber at Seacliff Inn. University Women luncheon at Seascape Golf Club feaCandidates begin speaking at 11:45 a.m. Admission is To view the previous event, see https://www.youtube.com/ Second Friday Each Month tures Holly Martinez, Executive Director of CA Commission $35, payble to the Aptos Chamber. watch?v=Emfsw8vY5nA on the Status of Women. NEW BRIDGE GROUP Register at www.aptoschamber.com. Tickets are $40 at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/aauw-scc10:30-Noon, La Selva Beach Public Library, 316 Estrella Ave. Wednesday February 7 and-aauw-mcb-inter-branch-council-2024-luncheon-ticketsCome for bridge on the second Friday of each month from FOR THE LOVE OF CHILDREN LUNCHEON thru Friday February 9 642556121657 10:30 to noon at the La Selva Beach library. First meeting was Oct. 13. Bette Harken, Master Bridge 11:30 am-1 pm, Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Drive, Aptos MAR VISTA SCIENCE FAIR For the Love of Children is an annual event hosted by the Saturday February 24 player, will give an introduction for beginners. 2 p.m., Mar Vista Elementary School, 6860 Soquel Drive, Aptos Friends of CASA at Seascape Golf Sunday February 25 Call La Selva Library to reserve your seat: 831-427-7710. Mar Vista Elementary School Parents Club presents the Club. CA PIG CHASE Mar Vista Science Fair for grades 3-6. This luncheon, where the Project set up and judging will take place the same Cabrillo College Tennis Courts, 6500 Soquel Dr Aptos. DATED EVENTS community comes together to day. Student tours will be Thursday and Friday in the Cabrillo College will host the CA Pickleball is Great learn more about CASA, raises Tuesday February 6 multi-purpose room. tournament at the tennis courts. money for the CASA Children’s Men & women’s doubles play Saturday; mixed doubles LAIRD TO SPEAK Fund, providing much needed Saturday February 10 are Sunday. Age brackets from under 50 to 60+. Gold, 6:30 p.m., Bruno’s Bar and Grill, 230 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts items for foster children and silver and bronze awarded. Round Robin format. PAINT YOUR PET! Valley families. Deadline to register is Feb. 18 at 11:45 p.m. Fee is $45. Sen. John Laird will be the guest speaker for the 2-5 p.m., 2100 Delaware Ave, Suite B, Santa Cruz Plated lunch, vegetarian and CA PIG Chase events are scheduled each month thru June. Democratic Club of North Santa Cruz County. He will Join Pregnant Mare Rescue for a Paint Your Pet vegan options; order tickets at discuss the Governor’s budget proposal for the next fiscal $100 per person by Jan. 30 at https://casaofsantacruz. fundraiser at an studio on the westside of Santa Cruz. Register (and more details) at http://tinyurl.com/Cabrillo-PIG-chase. year and Proposition One, which will be on the March 5 A complimentary glass of wine, beer, Gatorade, soda org/news-events/calendar.html/event-form/for-the-loveprimary ballot. or coffee and nibbles are included! Feel free to bring in Saturday March 9 of-children-luncheon-registration/95832/tickets Sunday March 10 The proposition would provide bond funds for mental your own food and drinks to enjoy. For information, call Magi Diego, 831-761-2956 x 106. health treatment facilities for people with mental health RISING STARS Tickets are $75; price includes a hand-sketched and substance abuse challenges and housing for portrait of your pet onto a 12 x 12 stretched canvas, 10 a.m., 829 Bay Av., Mid-County Senior Center, 829 Bay 2024 ELECTION OUTLOOK individuals who are homeless or at risk of becoming all art supplies, and 3 hours of professional instruction. Avenue, Capitola 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Location TBA homeless. Register for the event at http://tinyurl.com/pmrPresented by Santa Cruz Bridge Center. Limited/750* Sectional Following up on the engaging discourse initiated during Also, candidates running for the Democratic Entry fee is $15 per person per session. the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership’s Annual State paint-your-pet-2024 and then email a picture of your Central Committee in the 5th District will be Find information at https://www.santacruzbridge.org of the Region in November 2023, the nonprofit will host pet to kim@paintedcork.com, and it will be hand introduced. sketched on-to your canvas for you before the event. a lunch and panel discussion on 2024 Election — Club meetings are upstairs at Bruno’s Bar and Grill in the Democracy, Hope, and Action, lunch included, at a Saturday March 23 Please send your pet picture as soon as possible and no later Kings Village Shopping Center. than Feb. 6. location to be announced. KIDS FUN RUN Members of the public are welcome to attend. This panel discussion features speakers including Mike 6:30 – 10:30 a.m., Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach St. Tuesday Feb 13 Madrid, an expert on Latino voting, Debbie Mesloh, one Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk hosts a Kids Fun Run. Wednesday February 7 of Kamala Harris’ senior advisors, and Amanda Renteria CAPITOLA SOROPTIMIST CLUB There are two races: a 1K for kids 12 and under, and a 5K SECOND DISTRICT CANDIDATE FORUM of Code for America, who serves on the President’s Com- 11:30 a.m., United Way of Santa Cruz County, 4450 Capitola for kids age 4 and up. (and families). 11:30 a.m. – 1:15 p.m., Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion Court, mission on Hispanic Affairs. The fee is $25 for the 1K and $40 for the 5K. Fees go Road, Suite 106 The session will be moderated by Zach Friend. Panelists Soroptimist International of Capitola-by-the-Sea will have up after Feb. 23. Aptos will delve into the current political climate, analyzing All five candidates for 2nd District supervisor, Kristen Sign up at https://runsignup.com/Race/CA/SantaCruz/Boardwalk a luncheon club meeting at United Way of Santa Cruz Brown, Tony Crane, Kim De Serpa, Bruce Jaffe, and David trends, challenges, and potential pathways for the future. County. The meeting is free and open to the public. FunRun n
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FEATURED COLUMNIST
County Master Plan for Aging: Survey Open til March 31
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ecently, the County Human Services Department’s Adult & Long-Term Care Division began the process of developing a Master Plan for Aging in partnership with the Seniors Council and local cities within the county. The Master Plan effort harmonizes with current state efforts to ensure our county (and state) have the framework needed to ensure that community members can age well within our area. The local effort is called “Age Well Santa Cruz County.” What is Age Well Santa Cruz County and what is the Master Plan for Aging? he Age Well Santa Cruz County initiative will allow the County to develop our area’s first blueprint for a local Master Plan on Aging. According to California’s Master Plan for Aging, the goal is “affirm the priority of the health and well-being of older Californians and people with disabilities. It is a blueprint for state government, local government, the private sector, and philanthropy to prepare the state for the coming demographic changes and continue California’s leadership in aging, disability, and equity.” The State has set forth five priority goals as part of the process: Housing for All
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By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District
Stages & Ages (providing adequate housing for our aging population, those with disabilities and additional needs), Health Reimagined (closing the health equity gap and improving lifespans and quality of life), Inclusion & Equity, Not Isolation (having lifelong opportunities for work, volunteering, engagement, and leadership to protect from isolation, discrimination and neglect), Caregiving That Works (having one million caregiving jobs to ensure care for an aging population) and Affording Aging (to ensure economic sufficiency as we age). The blueprint is a 10-year horizon (that started in 2021). Additionally, there is a data dashboard that provides information about California’s older adult population and also tracks progress on the State’s Master Plan goals. This can be found on the State’s dedicated site: https://mpa.aging.ca.gov As part of this process locally, the County is conducting a Community Needs Assessment Survey (in English and Spanish) to collect community feedback focused on aging in the county. The goal of the plan, and the survey, is to ensure people of all ages and abilities in our county are engaged, valued, and afforded equitable opportunities to thrive as they age, how and where they choose.
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Where can you find the survey to participate? he survey can be found at this link: www.agewellsantacruzcounty.org — in addition, the survey can be found from the County’s Human Services website by clicking on Adult & Long Term Care and you will see the Age Well Santa Cruz County link. If you would prefer a paper version of the survey, you can call Human Services at (831) 454-4397 or send an email to: AgeWell@santacruzcountyca.gov with “Mail Me a Paper Survey” in the subject line. In the email they are requesting your first and last name, your mailing address, what type of survey you are requesting (English, Spanish, Large Format in English), and how many copies you need of each. The survey will be open until March 31. Results
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from this survey will help inform our local goals and priorities. What does the Human Services Department Department Adult & Long-Term Care Division do? he Adult & Long-Term Care Division assists older adults and people with disabilities to maximize self-sufficiency, safety and independence. Additionally, they provide casework services and resource information that offers a choice of community services and care options. The Adult & Long-Term Care Division is taking the County’s lead in the Age Well Santa Cruz County process. 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 facebook.com/supervisorfriend and you can always call me at 454-2200.
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SCCAS Featured Pet
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Bareroot Season Begins in January
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Stellaaaaa!
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ur Pet of the week is stellar Stella (#A305284)! Stella was our POTW in November but has not been adopted yet! She is still as smart as a whip and since the last time she was featured she has gone to a foster home and is having a blast! She loves playing with her 95lb dog foster sibling and is getting so much enrichment and socialization with their time together. Stella sleeps through the night, is potty trained and is learning all kinds of new things. At the Shelter she had been a little mouthy when she was over tired or over stimulated but in her foster home, and with plenty of exercise and play with her foster brother, she has been very well behaved and not mouthy. While she came to the Shelter with a lot of pent-up energy and typical puppy enthusiasm for life she has learned so much from staff, volunteers and her foster family. She is such a smartie pants she already knows sit! She is a prime candidate for an adopter who is excited about working with a dog and using positive reinforcement training to create a trusting relationship. Adopters are recommended to be dog-savvy and understanding. We do not have any history of Stella with cats. Because Stella thrives so much with other dogs she is required to go to a home with another dog. So if you are looking for a new playmate for your energetic pup, Stella is your girl! ••• The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is full of adoptable animals. Fostering animals is an awesome way to improve a Shelter animal’s life and fill your home with love and fun! If you are interested in fostering any kind of animal please email jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us. You can also Follow SCCAS on Instagram and/or Facebook to stay up-to-date on shelter news and where to find adoptable pets around town at breweries, stores and events. ••• Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s full-service, open-admission shelter: 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 Hours: Daily 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. • Website: www.scanimalshelter.org SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182 • After Hours: jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us
By Tony Tomeo
hristmas trees and associated items are no imposition for nurseries. They are seasonal while not much else is appealing to a retail market. They occupy retail area that summer and autumn commodities relinquished earlier. Then, they relinquish their same space as bareroot stock becomes seasonable. The chronology is very coincidentally very efficient. Bareroot season is not actually contingent on the end of Christmas tree season. It begins with winter dormancy of bareroot stock. This dormancy merely and fortuitously coincides with Christmas. It is as effective as anesthesia for surgery. Basically, dormant stock goes to sleep on a farm, and awakens in a new home garden. Timing of the process is critical. Bareroot stock initially grows in the ground rather than within nursery cans. Separation of its roots from the soil they grew is harmless during dormancy. Both roots and stems need simultaneous pruning. Then, stock is ready for transport without soil. Some gets packing of moist sawdust in plastic bags. Most awaits resale from bins of moist sand at nurseries. Bareroot stock has several advantages to more familiar canned nursery stock. It is much less expensive. It is also much less cumbersome. So, not only are more items affordable, but also, more fit into a car at the nursery. Their relatively small roots systems are easy to install. More importantly, without
Classic Toys © Statepoint Media
Bare roots are dormant for winter.
binding, their new roots disperse much more efficiently. Deciduous fruit trees are the most popular bareroot stock. This includes stone fruits such as apricot, cherry, plum, prune, peach and nectarine. Also, it includes pomme fruits such as apple, pear and quince. Roses and cane berries are likely the second most popular of bareroot stock. Persimmon, pomegranate, fig, mulberry, and nut trees are also available. Some of the more unusual bareroot stock is available only from online catalogues. More variety seems to become available locally though. Elderberry has only been available in California for the past several years. Currant and gooseberry are variably available here. Artichoke, asparagus, rhubarb and strawberry are perennials that are available bareroot. Cultivars of blueberry and grapevines are available. ••• Heath eaths, which are several species of Erica, derive their name from their natural habitats. They are endemic to shrublands of acidic and seasonally dry soil of inferior quality. Such ecosystems, or heaths, do not sustain many big trees or shrubbery. Species from heaths should be resilient to dry chaparral summers. However, they Heath for winter. dislike locally Heather for summer. alkaline soils. This is unfortunately why heaths are quite rare within gardens here. They are popular as blooming potted plants for winter, but become scarce afterward. Within planters of potting media, they may grow and bloom for many years. In the ground though, they are likely to languish without acidifying amendment. They prefer the company of coniferous species. Heath blooms for winter or very early spring. Heather is a similar relation, but blooms for summer or autumn. Floral color ranges from white to pink to rustic purplish pink. Flowers are dinky but abundant. Comparably dinky evergreen leaves are like soft juniper scales. Almost all available heaths grow less than five feet high. Most grow less than a foot high. n ••• Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo. com.
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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / February 1st 2024 / 31
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