Aptos Times: May 1, 2024

Janie Houser

State Champion: Jr Freestyle Wrestling

Janie Houser, 18, a senior at Aptos High School competing for the Sunnyvale Wrestling Club, took first place at 130 pounds in the California USA Wrestling Junior Freestyle State Championship at Selland Arena April 21 in Fresno. Aptos Times interviewed her via email.

What got you interested in wrestling?

I got interested in wrestling cause I tried it out in 8th grade but the season was cut very short due to the Covid pandemic. So it left me wanting to try it again freshman year. ... continues on page 4

Oral Health: Progress Made

Bleeding gums, infections and tooth decay are problems in the mouth, and problems in the mouth can lead to students staying home from school and heart disease and diabetes for moms, dads, and grandparents.

Full Story page 5

Abbi Hartsell, Beloved Queen of Jazzercise Full Story page 9

Pajaro Valley Chamber to Honor Gizdich, Ryan, Rodgers

The Pajaro Valley Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture announces the 2024 Annual Awards to people who have gone above and beyond to make the Pajaro Valley an amazing place to live and a July 27 dinner to recognize them. Full Story page 6

Pajaro Valley Chamber to Honor Gizdich, Ryan,

10 Senior Class Shares Lotus Project with Young Students, By Anya Gonzalez, grade 12 • 2024 Santa Cruz County Fair Artwork

12 Adieu Café Sparrow: After 38 years in the heart of Aptos, Café Sparrow has bid farewell.

15 Scientists Discover First Nitrogen-Fixing Organelle, By Erin Malsbury

23 Insurance Chief Proposes Reform: Consumer Watchdog says Transparency Needed • Beware Scammer Impersonating Sheriff Deputy

24 USPS Issues Betty Ford Stamp: Former First Lady Known for her Candor, Support of Women’s Rights

publisher

Patrice Edwards editor

Jondi Gumz

contributing writers

Jondi Gumz, Anya Gonzalez, Erin Malsbury, Elena Houle, Risa D’Angeles, Kaelin Wagnermarsh, Alondra Coraza-Espinoza, Sylvi Kayser, Zach Friend, Robert Scott

Michael Oppenheimer

Ward

Aptos Aces Boys Tennis Championships

Aptos Mariners enjoyed a stellar season in boys’ tennis, sweeping the Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League championships.

Koosha Safari, a senior who plans to train at Andre Agassi College Preparatory Academy with hopes of playing collegiate tennis at the D-1 level, captured the singles crown by defeating his teammate, sophomore Ben Zaretsky, 6-2, 6-4.

This is Koosha’s third singles crown.

In doubles, Aptos seniors John McGowan and Jack Eldredge claimed the title by defeating Santa Cruz brothers, Julian Arulanantham, a senior, and Jeremy Arulanantham, a freshman, 6-4, 6-3.

Matches were hosted by Seascape Sports Club in Aptos.

John and Jack have played together since elementary school.

John plans to attend Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and Jack plans to attend Cabrillo College.

The winning Aptos trio earned the right to compete at the Central Coast Section Singles and Doubles Championship May 14-16, also at Seascape Sports Club.

Aptos shared the SCCAL team title with Scotts Valley and will compete at the CCS team tournament that began May 1. n

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

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

COVER STORY

“Janie Houser” from page 1

I tried it out and I was a competitive gymnast at the time and felt how much my strength and flexibility was benefiting me in my first days of wrestling.

What helped you get to where you are now?

Mentors? Practice? Food choices?

What helped me get to where I am now were the amazing people I have to help me. Coach Pete (Gustafson) and his two daughters, Greta and Lena Gustafson, have put countless hours into helping me by driving me to tournaments, practices, and clinics to get better.

They are the biggest reason I have improved in the off season to the skill I am at now. Multiple times a week, Coach Pete takes me as well as his daughters and other wrestlers to Sunnyvale Wrestling Club, almost an hour away, to get elite training from Coach Erik Duus and other amazing coaches.

During the high school season, I have Coach Camila Barranco (Aptos High alum)

and Coach Rudy Guzman to thank, my Aptos High coaches.

My main mentors are probably Coach Sandy Fakaosi (3x Olympian) and Camila Barranco. Those are two amazing people I have to help me. Sandy is so inspirational and supportive when I’m on the mat. Camila is always there for me when I need help making a big decision.

I try to weight train an hour before school almost every day at my gym. And I have very helpful weight training class at school as my last period around mid-day. Then after school I have my wrestling practice of a sort.

Some days I stay local and train with my Santa Cruz club, and other days I travel over the hill to Sunnyvale wrestling club. During the high school season, I practiced at Aptos High after school.

What’s next in wrestling for you?

Next in wrestling I am attending Utah western regionals. I also have Association duels coming up where I represent Santa Clara Valley. As a team, we duel the other

associations of California. I also have California USA Wrestling Greco State coming up after the duels.

In the summer I represent California at National Duels in Oklahoma. Besides being on the National Duel team, I also qualified for the National team going to North Dakota in the summer.

I achieved that by winning California USA Wrestling Freestyle state last weekend.

What will you do after high school? College? Major?

I am committed to Menlo College in Atherton, California. I will be continuing my academic and athletic career there. I am so excited to be able to continue wrestling in California.

That team just won the 2024 NAIA Women’s National Championship. Head women’s wrestling coach Michael Ayala won NAIA Coach of the Year. And the school is transitioning to NCAA. I am very excited.

Cover Photo: Champion wrestler Janie Houser, in pink, holds her first-place trophy.

Photos Credit: Alison Hanks-Sloan

Michael Oppenheimer,

Camisa Composti

Teri Huckobey, Brooke Valentine, Danielle Paul

coordinator

Cathe Race distribution

Bill Pooley, Erik Long

Michael Oppenheimer, Camisa Composti

Michael Oppenheimer website

photography

Aptos High seniors John McGowan and Jack Eldredge, who have played together since elementary school, beat Santa Cruz in doubles.

Aptos High Coach Sam Brown, Coach Tammi Brown and the boys’ tennis team.

Koosha Safari beat Ben Zaretsky to win the singles title. Both attend Aptos High.

Oral Health: Progress Made

By Jondi Gumz

Bleeding gums, infections and tooth decay are problems in the mouth, and problems in the mouth can lead to students staying home from school and heart disease and diabetes for moms, dads, and grandparents.

In Santa Cruz County, one in five older adults have no teeth, so it makes sense to look upstream to get to the root of the problem.

Dr. Sepi Taghvaei, D.D.S., who lives in Aptos, saw the problems when she joined Dientes, the local nonprofit providing dental care, in 2014.

County Supervisor Zach Friend, who lives in Aptos, took his then-2-year-old to the dentist and noticed a lack of diversity in the office.

He and Dr. Taghvaei became co-chairs of Oral Health Access Santa Cruz County, which hosted a summit April 24 at Seascape Golf Club in Aptos to share improvements made over 8 years with nearly 100 people representing 20 organizations and agencies that made it happen.

Among the accomplishments:

• Serving 3,400 more Medi-Cal patients

• Increasing dental clinic capacity by 39%

• A 225% increase for children covered by

Medi-Cal going to the dentist by their first tooth or first birthday

“Your approach is unique,” said Caitlin Walker, corporate responsibility program manager at Delta Dental Foundation, which in 2023 awarded Dientes and Salud Para La Gente $5 million over five years to focus on senior citizens as only one in four locally with

MediCal get needed dental care. “It should serve as a model.”

The initial focus was on the youngest children, and the First Tooth First Birthday campaign to get children to the dentist by age 1 was successful.

“Oral Health” page 7

Your Home Loan Partners

Our professional consultants

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz Award winners Jack Verhage and Andrea Arteaga of Project Smile at UC Santa Cruz, and Rachel Sandobal and Dr. Sung Sohn of Salud Para La Gente.

Beneficial Plants for California’s Mediterranean Climate

• Edibles and Fruit Trees

• Native and appropriate plant varieties

• 2 Acre Display & Sculpture Garden

• Gift Certifi cates

• Family Owned & Operated for 30 Years

Open Daily 10-5:00 • 2660 E. Lake Ave. Watsonville, CA 95076 831-728-2532 • sierraazul.com

COMMUNITY NEWS

Pajaro Valley Chamber to Honor Gizdich, Ryan, Rodgers

The Pajaro Valley Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture announces the 2024 Annual Awards to people who have gone above and beyond to make the Pajaro Valley an amazing place to live and a July 27 dinner to recognize them.

Nita Gizdich

Lifetime Achievement

Nita Gizdich has a long history in the Pajaro Valley at the Gizdich Ranch. Her father-in-law Vincent John Gizdich, a Croatian immigrant, purchased the ranch -five acres of apples and five acres of land for pigs and chickens -- in 1934 for $1,400. The family then moved their three sons from Oakland to the beautiful Pajaro Valley. The family home had no electricity or indoor bathrooms but did have a much-needed packing shed. Nita says they had a wonderful childhood, and everyone loved living on the ranch. Of the three brothers, Nita’s husband, Vince Jr., was the only son interested in farming for a living.

Vince and Nita met at a Croatian social dance club. Nita and Vince were dance partners and they quickly fell in love. At 16, Vince was eager to buy her an engagement ring, but she was steadfast on graduating high school first. Nita graduated high school on Friday, and they were married on that Sunday with Nita being 17.

When Vincent Sr. retired, Nita and Vince moved from town to the ranch to run the family business. Their two sons were born before moving to the ranch and it was then that Vince suggested Nita start selling her wonderful pies. This proved a success as these pies are a holiday treat Nina is known

Nita has volunteered countless hours and served on the Board of Directors for various organizations including the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau. Farm Bureau Executive Director Jess Brown says, “It’s an honor to have Nita as a friend. The more a person is around her, the more they learn on how to live their life, by socializing, giving back to the community and having a variety of passions.”

Nita is now in semi-retirement, but the ranch is still going strong, and Nita can be found almost daily welcoming visitors to the ranch. Her son, Vince, daughter-in-law Cynthia and their son are at the ranch every day carrying on the family business.

Gizdich Ranch has been a Pajaro Valley pioneer for agri-tourism, showing visitors how their food is grown, hosing countless field trips from local schools and attracting tourists from around the world.

Matt Ryan Man of the Year

Matt Ryan, a Watsonville firefighter from 1990 to 2020, is a champion for so many organizations, a great personality, always happy to help. Here are a few: Caravan for Kids

(Taking kids with cancer to the Lucille Packard Children’s Hospital) Walk a Mile in Her

Shoes

St. Francis High School-Salesian College

Prep: Sports Booster Chairman

Salesian Elementary and Junior High: Booster President

Santa Cruz County Fair: Lead for Opening Day Senior BBQ put on by the Farm Bureau and the Watsonville Firefighters Association

Puts on the Santa Cruz County Junior Livestock Buyer Dinner

US Marine Corps Toys for Tots Co-Chair Violence Reduction Committee Knights of Columbus #11804 Recovery World

Central Coast Critical Incident Team (Provides PTSD counseling for emergency workers)

Very involved with AAA to help those with substance abuse through challenging times.

He is always volunteering to cook for community events such as those hosted by the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau, The Heritage Foundation, Santa Cruz County Fair Foundation to name a few.

He has served a great barbeque and meals for many weddings, memorial services and helped St. Francis High School in many fundraisers.

He is known all over the Pajaro Valley as the person who can be relied upon to make functions possible. Always behind the scenes at the BBQ with a smile on his face, he is one of the most loved people in the county.

Matt raised his children in the Pajaro Valley and he has continued to be involved with many different organizations, all of which have greatly benefitted from his talent and his personal friendship.

“PV Chamber Awards” page 16

Nita Gizdich

Matt Ryan

The current co-chairs, Sheree Storm, Dientes chief strategy officer, and David Brody, executive director of First 5 Santa Cruz County, thanked those in the room for their efforts, presented four awards, and described the goals for the next five years.

Awards went to:

• Dr. Sung Sohn, dental director at Salud Para La Gente for integrating oral health into the clinical environment and inspiring providers facing many demands on their time with patients to incorporate oral health care into their work.

• Rachel Sandobal, dental program manager at Salud Para La Gente for promoting understanding of how central oral health care is to overall health in school systems, in the clinic, and in the community.

• Project Smile, an organization led by UC Santa Cruz students, for distributing oral hygiene kits to those disadvantaged.

The strategic plan for 2024-28 has four goals.

Increase clinic capacity from 22,000 visits in 2022 to 74,000 in 2028. Strategy: Hire more dentists, hygienists and dental assistants and use mobile clinics four days a week to reach patients where they are such as senior centers and Janus.

Dr. Taghvaei said the residency program for two dental school grads a year resulted in hiring one of two new dentists both years.

“We qualify for loan repayment,” she added.

In 2023, the average dental school graduate in 2023 owed $286,000 in student loans.

Recruiting dental assistants is more challenging, so the Santa Cruz County Office of Education, a partner in the oral health coalition, which offers a 10-month training program, is planning to start an apprenticeship.

Collaborate with schools to increase the rate of children ages 10-18 going to the dentist from 53% in 2022 to 60% by 2028 Strategy: Engage local youth in a peerto-peer campaign and provide more dental care at middle and high schools.

This builds on the accomplishment of 60% of children ages 3-9 going to the dentist by linking parents to a dental provider.

Increase the rate of seniors 65+ covered by Medi-Cal going to the dentist from 27% in 2022 to 40% by 2028 Strategy: Provide mobile dentistry at

senior centers and promote ways to get to dental appointments. A survey of seniors age 60+ found two-thirds with Medi-Cal but half of those surveyed reported difficulty getting appointments due to a long waitlist.

If seniors have medical coverage with the Central California Alliance for Health (based in Scotts Valley), they get dental coverage, explained Marwan Kanafani, the new health services manager at the Alliance, which has 456,000 members in give counties including Santa Cruz.

“People don’t know they have dental coverage as part of MediCal,” he said.

Other seniors have Medicare, which covers only doctor visits, not dental visits, so coalition members lobby for dental benefits to be added to Medicare.

Integrate medical and dental care, with a focus on pregnant women and kids ages 1-2

The goal is to increase the rate of pregnant women going to the dentist from 47% in 2022 to 60% in 2028 with an education campaign for MediCal providers and the nurse visiting program.

Another goal is to increase the rate of children ages 1-2 going to the dentist from 53% in 2022 to 60% in 2028, promoting the First Tooth First Birthday program and the Semillitas, the automatic college savings account for newborns with payment for oral health milestones.

Two more strategies: Increase the number of fluoride varnish on teeth of kids ages 0-5 to 20% by 2028 and offer more mobile dental visits for people with diabetes.

First 5 Santa Cruz County’s Baby Gateway program helps 2,000 families a year. Staff help enroll newborns eligible for MediCal while moms are at the hospital, connect the infant to a primary care physician with the Alliance, connect the baby to CalFresh food stamps, and provide a kit for parents on what to do with a sick child, which reduced emergency department visits.

Partners in the coalition include: Santa Cruz County Human Resources Agency, Cabrillo College, United Way of Santa Cruz County, Senior Network Services, Santa Cruz Community Health, Grey Bears, Community Bridges, Seniors Council, Kaiser Permanente, Sutter Health, Dignity Health, Salud y Carino, and Health Improvement Partnership of Santa Cruz County. n

To view the entire strategic plan, visit www. oralhealthscc.org

Reserve Placement in the Capitola Summer Festivals Program & Adventure guide

In this issue:

Capitola Art & Wine Festival Summer Festivities

Capitola Beach Festival

Woodies on the Wharf

A special restaurant section full of Santa Cruz County foodies & more!

Cover Photo: First 5 Santa Cruz County Baby Gateway team: Alicia Zentano, Alicia Fernandez, David Brody, Laura Sotelo. •

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Seniors 65+ are a new focus for the Oral Health Access coalition.

Photo Credit: Kevin Painchaud

Oral Health Access leadership past and present: David Brody, Laura Marcus, Sheree Storm, Monica Nicholas, Dr. Sepi Taghvaei, Zach Friend.

By Elena Houle

Nestled away in a remodeled realestate building on Soquel Drive, Acton Academy sets itself apart from traditional schooling as it embraces a Socratic learner–driven environment that focuses on character development.

Founded amidst an educational landscape that follows a one-size-fits-all approach, Acton Academy emerged from a pressing need for hands-on, personalized learning.

It started with Annabelle Drake and Carol Bowles, two mothers who chose to homeschool their children. They wanted to enhance their children’s learning experiences further, so they obtained permission and licensing to start an Acton Academy in Santa Cruz County in 2022.

Securing a physical space that accommodated the academy’s learning model was a challenge, as the location needed to fit the intricate needs of the Acton studio — so that a culture could be established that resonated with learner-driven education.

In the first year, Acton did not seek any traditional teachers, as the owners themselves took on the role of “Guides” as they co-created and began fostering an environment rooted in the principles of the Socratic methodology, which focuses on guided questioning to receive an answer.

“We teach children critical thinking and the idea that adults have to answers and that it’s not a top-down approach from adult to child,” said Carol Bowles. “We want children to build upon ideas and to utilize the resources around them.”

By the second year, a local coach joined the team of Guides to help enhance the program’s ability to connect and inspire the children who become “Heroes” of their learning journey. Currently, Acton Academy boasts an enrollment of 36, with plans to expand by opening Spark Studios for ages 5 - 8 in the fall 2024.

This growth is crucial to the academy’s sustainable model as optimum enrollment balances financial stability with learner freedom that is central to its educational philosophy as their main belief statement as an Acton: “Every person who walks through our doors is a genius with the potential to change the world!”

Acton Academy stands out through its unique educational approach, which integrates the well-known Montessori learning approach with a strong emphasis on Socratic learning principles. This approach involves no lectures or additional work outside of assignments the Heroes need to complete for their homeschool program.

Instead, the Guides present the Heroes with challenges or “quest as this encourages the Heroes to engage with the material and each other through guided questioning from the Guides.

Acton AcAdemy

This encourages critical thinking and self-motivation as it initiates the Heroes to experience and explore hands-on learning and prompts students to set personal goals for themselves.

Voices from within the school echo with success as Kegan Curry, a ninth-grade student, reflects on her educational experience at Acton Academy: “Acton has a lot of learner experience freedoms; we have to hold each other and ourselves accountable. It is imperative to create a system of accountability that benefits all learners and advance our skills at the same time… It is a challenge, but we are building the culture here in our studio. We are learning skills to help organize, manage, and build our learner experiences here at Acton.”

The Academy prioritizes a vibrant relationship with parents and the community through Acton Nights and parent workshops to further enhance the Hero’s learning journey and success at Acton Academy. These events help reinforce the framework of the Academy as they help build a supportive network and educate the community on how to incorporate the Socratic method at home.

Acton Academy will host a Mother’s Day Craft Fair noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 11, at 7979 Soquel Drive, Aptos, offering baked goods, plants, jewelry, art and cards. Looking forward, Acton aims to empower students further to use and enhance their critical thinking skills by gradually transitioning them to take on guiding roles themselves, enhancing their autonomy and leadership skills. The longterm goal is clear: To equip students with the ability to make informed choices and pursue learning that will fundamentally shape their personal and professional futures. n •••

Acton Academy Santa Cruz is at 7979 Soquel Drive, Aptos. Website: https://www.actonsantacruz.org/ Contact: info@actionsantacruz.org

Abbi Hartsell, Beloved Queen of Jazzercise

~ 1963-2024 ~

Acelebration of life for Abbi Hartsell will be at sunset at Twin Lakes Beach in Santa Cruz 5:30-8:30 p.m. Sunday, May 19.

AbbiLynn Hartsell left us far too early for a better place. When she was a baby girl, in the Rio Del Mar Flats of Santa Cruz County, she loved to leap and run on the endless beaches looking for shells and sand dollars. Dancing ballet and tap was a natural progression.

At an early age, Abbi moved with the family to a mustard yellow house on Chanticleer in Live Oak where she would spend most of her life. This was not far from where she could eventually keep her horses. Her riding skills were such that she did quite well in both Western and Equestrian competitions.

Having no access to a horse trailer meant having to take trails and backroads on horseback to get to events across town, but these journeys just increased her determination to do well.

Abbi owned and built up a much-loved franchise for 33 years, with a huge following. An astute businesswoman, she learned how to grow her business, yet she always chose to support the seniors and encourage the broke with significant discounts. Nobody was turned away. Her payoff for this grace was the confidence, pride, and healthier lifestyles that her students gained and displayed. Baggy dull sweatpants were replaced with flashy skintight outfits. Abbi was known for mentoring other women, and countless stories have been shared of the difference she made in the lives of many people.

Abbi’s popularity required her to work long hours and longer weeks. She found

As Abbi was not particularly a classroom conformist, she left school with a G.E.D. and at 17, somehow parlayed her schoolyard education into becoming assistant manager at Josef’s Deli in Aptos. Soon thereafter, she discovered a passion for Jazzercise. It wasn’t long before she became an instructor and a legacy was born.

respite and relaxation on Maui when she visited her sister. The addition of nieces and nephews over the years made the draw that much stronger, and the stays became longer and more frequent. If she was a positive influence on her students, it was nothing compared with the time spent with her siblings’ children.

The best Aunty ever. She spoke often about eventually moving to Kahana, Maui, once she retired, but nothing came of this until Mom Nancy called her bluff, sold the house, loaded up the truck and together they headed to Hawaii.

Once on the island, Abbi couldn’t give up her workouts, and was eventually attracted to the spirit of Gym Maui. One thing led to another. She should have been exercising but was folding towels. She should have been folding towels when instead she was scolding behavior or correcting form. Next thing we knew she was the manager with a

Delivering humankindness.

Make peace of mind part of your birth plan.

Holding your baby for the first time—it’s a moment you’ll cherish for the rest of your life. And Dominican Hospital’s Family Birth Center is here to help make it as special as your new bundle of joy. Our team of doctors, nurses—even midwives—will guide you every baby step of the way. And they’re supported by the only Level III NICU in the Monterey Bay area should you need it. We even have classes to help you prepare for the big day. See for yourself. Take a virtual tour of our Birth Center at DominicanBaby.org

spy camera phone app, and a loveable boss who had your back.

Abbi was hilarious, a force to be reckoned with. She was a Rasta, a Buddhist, and a firm believer in human potential. She was almost invincible.

Abbi Lyn Hartsell was predeceased by her father James Hartsell, who treated her like a princess, and her recently departed brother-in-law, Doug Pitzer, who treated her like a queen. She is survived by her sister

Kelly Pitzer, who is her angel, and by her mother Nancy Abbey, brother Bill Hartsell, nieces Malia Pitzer and Annalissa Hartsell, nephews John Pitzer, Davis Pitzer, Devon Hartsell and Wyatt Hartsell, sister-in-law Alicia Hartsell and stepbrother James Hartsell & his daughter Noelani Hartsell.

The family wants to thank Hospice of Maui for the amazing nurses and caretakers who made the last months of Abbi’s life bearable. Hospice provided the guidance and support that sustained the family throughout the long, difficult days before her death. We will always be grateful to them and encourage anyone who wants to support their work to give a donation to Hospice Maui, 400 Mahalani St, Wailuku, HI 96793. n

Abbi Hartsell

Senior Class Shares Lotus Project with Young Students

By Anya Gonzalez, grade 12

Earlier this week, Mount Madonna School second and third graders met with the senior class on a foggy afternoon along the shore of the campus lake.

Despite the drizzle, the children were chipper and excited to hear what the curriculum leaders and senior students Ona

Musoll-Buendia and Emma Monclus, had to say about seniors’ Lotus Project.

The students got into pairs and received a clipboard, pencil and bingo sheet. The bingo sheet included wildlife that live in the lake ecosystem. In pairs, accompanied by a senior buddy, the students walked along the edge of the lake searching for frogs, fish and any other wildlife they spotted in the murky water.

Near the east end of the lake, Ona showed the children the water level gauge which was at 12 feet due to the recent rain. At the end of the curriculum demonstration, the students gathered in a circle to share their observations and to learn more about the Lotus Project.

The younger students were able to connect the Lotus Project initiative of removing elodea, a water weed found in the lake, to their own invasive species project.

“Lotus Project” page 13

2024 Santa Cruz County Fair Artwork

Look closely! There are many fun and fantastic details in this year’s Santa Cruz County Fair artwork… based on the theme, “Pioneer Days to Modern Ways!”

Artist Susan McBeth created the timedefying design. It features a covered wagon hovercraft, an astronaut, plus pioneers with a smartphone and tablet in hand. And don’t miss the drone cleverly hidden in the logo. The artwork is the perfect depiction of fairs past, present and future.

The timeless tableau is the culmination of many creative minds, both Fair officials and marketing team members, brainstorming the limitless possibilities inspired by “Pioneer Days to Modern Ways.” They handed off their ideas to McBeth who crafted them into the hand-drawn and original and colorful artwork.

McBeth is the artist who created a memorable character for a past fair, the surfing pig.

This artwork will first be featured on the cover of 2024 Entry Guide. The Entry Guide will be available online, and distributed to local businesses, early next month.

The Santa Cruz County Fair will be Sept. 11-15, so get ready to show your best. n

by Susan McBeth

Adieu Café Sparrow

After 38 years in the heart of Aptos, Café

On April 18, the restaurant known for fine French food announced with a heavy heart on Instagram that April 28 would be the last day of service.

“Due to the inflation of the world it is not a feasible task anymore,” the message said. “We hope to see all of you at least

1 more time before next Sunday. We understand this news is sudden and it is just as sudden for us, but we just can not hang on any longer. Come support our last few days of service and come say hi. We would love to see all of you before this chapter closes. Thank you to the amazing people of Aptos/ Santa Cruz for the years of support.”

On April 22, a couple walked up hoping to get a table for lunch, but every seat inside was full.

“I’ve been coming here 37 years,” the man said.

A follow-up post: “The amount of support we have seen this last week has been very unexpected and a pleasure. Thank you for letting us go out with a bang!”

Bob and Julie Montague bought the restaurant at 8042 Soquel Drive in 1989 before the earthquake

and remodeled and reopened. In 2022, during the Covid pandemic, their daughter and son-on-law, Bailey and Donnie Suesens, took over.

Prices have been rising for food, electricity, and labor, and customers are facing huge increases for home insurance, leaving less to spend on eating out.

The building at 8042 Soquel Drive is historic, dating to 1895. Back in the horse and buggy days, the Aptos Cash Store was at this location. Today, the challenge for a restaurant is not enough parking close by, with much of the close parking belonging to neighboring retailers.

Shoemaker Commercial Real Estate is advertising the building for sale, priced at $1.4 million and 100% leased.

Current tenants include Calicoastal Boutique, Allstate Insurance and Gravity Saddlemaker. n

The owner is Desert Sunset Apartments in Arizona.

Rent for Café Sparrow was $3,348 with the lease expiring in May 2026.

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Wishes for Mom on Mother’s Day

By Robert Scott, the Inquiring Photographer

Robert Scott, a student at Cabrillo College in Aptos, asked this question on campus: What do you wish for your mom on Mother’s Day?

Owen Ghigliazza, 19, Santa Cruz: “I hope she can reallytakeaminute, take a whole day to relax, longer. I just hope I’m able to return the favor and be there for her.”

Lawson, 21, Prunedale:

“I wish for you to find fulfillment, joy, and happiness every single day; and for you to get that adventure vehicle you want and go travel the world.”

Taylor Cannon, 26, Santa Cruz: “Peace of mind, I wish her good health and I hope that she knows I’m doing my best and there’s nothing to worry about and I want her to be content.”

Lucy Roberts, 16, Scotts Valley: “For Mother’s Day, I wish my mom can do what she wants, I think she deserves a bit of a break and some freedom after raising me and my two siblings.”

“Lotus Project” from page 10

After discussing the experience with Emma and Ona, students shared that they believe the demonstration was a success and that it helped them understand how to improve the curriculum they have created. n

Photos by Sophia Manzur, grade 12

Kaeli Roessler, 20, Live Oak: “Just happiness if that’s not too basic. Probably like a bouquet of flowers, she likes flowers.”

Serena Hernandez, 19, Freedom: “A good day, a good happy Mother’s Day.”

Esbeydi Juarez, 19, Freedom: “To have a day to rest and have a good day I guess.”

Beau Chilson, 19, Corralitos: “I’ll say a trip to Iceland, she’s always wanted to take a trip to Iceland.”

Grayson Hutchinson, 18, Aptos: “I wish that she is happy and feels emotionally fulfilled, because she has the best kids ever.” n •••

Do you have a question for our Inquiring Photographer? Email editor Jondi Gumz at info@cyber-times.com

Alyona Borchaninova

LOCAL SPORTS

Breakers, Aptos Soccer Merge to Create Santa Cruz United FC

The Santa Cruz County Breakers and Aptos Soccer Club will permanently merge their competitive soccer programs, as of July 1. The merger will form Santa Cruz United F.C., the largest competitive soccer program in Santa Cruz County, with 600+ players and 38 teams.

Tryouts start May 6 and 7 at the Cabrillo track and stadium for teams for players ages 8-18. See schedule at https://scunited.org/ Teams will compete in the NorCal Premier Soccer league, with the top teams competing in the prestigious National Premier League, providing an elite competition platform for top competitive youth soccer clubs in the U.S. Clubs must apply and meet competitive standards to be admitted to the league.

Aptos Soccer Club, founded in 2001, is dedicated to providing a fun and rewarding soccer playing experience for youth.

Santa Cruz Breakers, founded in 1992, lists more than 60 alumni who played soccer in college.

Gary Nelson will be the initial president of the new club, which has a board and leadership team composed of members from the individual clubs.

The merger follows two years of the clubs’ boards and technical staff working together on a temporary basis under a strategic alliance agreement signed in 2022.

“This merger represents a huge opportunity to build and advance the competitive soccer community in Santa Cruz County,” said Ashley Edgar, director of coaching, Santa Cruz Breakers. “For years we’ve been hoping to bring together clubs from across the county to allow players to combine and compete for one club. I’m excited to officially join forces with Aptos Soccer Club, which will enable us to collaborate, rather than compete. By working together we can provide appropriate playing levels to keep kids playing the game longer. We hope, through our shared vision, we can collaborate with more local soccer clubs across Santa Cruz.”

“This is an exciting moment for the future of soccer in Santa Cruz County. Merging our two competitive programs will help develop soccer players of all levels and give them a better opportunity to continue to play club soccer through to college age,” said Ed Watson, director of coaching, Aptos Soccer Club. “By creating a joint program, the player pools in each age group are larger, creating more competitive teams and giving players the opportunity to develop their soccer skills at their own pace, and stay in club soccer longer.”

Aptos Soccer Club and Santa Cruz County Breakers will continue to operate their community recreational soccer programs independently from the combined competitive club. n

•••

Ed Watson, Executive Director, 858-401-0377, edwardiwatson@gmail.com

Ashley Edgar, Sporting Director, 831-566-8822, ashley@santacruzbreakers.org

Gary Nelson, President, 408-761-8016, ascclubpresident@gmail.com

COMMUNITY NEWS

Scientists Discover First Nitrogen-Fixing Organelle

By Erin Malsbury

Modern biology textbooks assert that only bacteria can take nitrogen from the atmosphere and convert it into a form that is usable for life. Plants that fix nitrogen, such as legumes, do so by harboring symbiotic bacteria in root nodules. But a recent discovery upends that rule.

In two recent papers, an international team of scientists describe the first known nitrogen-fixing organelle within a eukaryotic cell. The organelle is the fourth example in history of primary endosymbiosis — the process by which a prokaryotic cell is engulfed by a eukaryotic cell and evolves beyond symbiosis into an organelle.

“It’s very rare that organelles arise from these types of things,” said Tyler Coale, a postdoctoral scholar at UC Santa Cruz and first author on one of two recent papers.

Researchers call the nitrogen-fixing organelle a nitroplast.

A Decades-Long Mystery

The discovery of the organelle involved a bit of luck and decades of work. In 1998, Jonathan Zehr, a UC Santa Cruz distinguished professor of marine sciences, found a short DNA sequence of what appeared to be from an unknown nitrogen-fixing cyanobacterium in Pacific Ocean seawater.

Zehr, who lives in Aptos, and colleagues spent years studying the mystery organism, which they called UCYN-A.

At the same time, Kyoko Hagino, a paleontologist at Kochi University in Japan, was painstakingly trying to culture a marine alga. It turned out to be the host organism for

UCYN-A. It took her over 300 sampling expeditions and more than a decade, but Hagino eventually successfully grew the alga in culture, allowing other researchers to begin studying UCYN-A and its marine alga host together in the lab.

For years, the scientists considered UCYN-A an endosymbiont that was closely associated with an alga. But the two recent papers suggest that UCYN-A has co-evolved with its host past symbiosis and now fits criteria for an organelle.

Organelle Origins

In a paper published in Cell in March, Zehr and colleagues from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Institut de Ciències del Mar in Barcelona and the University of Rhode Island show that the size ratio between UCYN-A and their algal hosts is similar across different species of the marine haptophyte algae Braarudosphaera bigelowii.

The researchers use a model to demonstrate that the growth of the host cell and UCYN-A are controlled by the exchange of nutrients. Their metabolisms are linked. This synchronization in growth rates led the researchers to call UCYN-A “organelle-like.”

“That’s exactly what happens with organelles,” said Zehr. “If you look at the mitochondria and the chloroplast, it’s the same thing: they scale with the cell.”

But the scientists did not confidently call UCYN-A an organelle until confirming other lines of evidence.

“Discovery” page 17

Westwind

The UC Santa Cruz research team, from left: Esther Mak, Jonathan Zehr, Kendra Turk-Kubo and Tyler Coale

“PV Chamber Awards” from page 6

Sally-Christine Rodgers

Woman of the Year

Tired of the litter and illegal dumping in our beautiful area, Sally-Christine Rodgers brought together a coalition of agencies called the Trash Talkers.

Working collaboratively, she and her husband Randy Repass, founder of West Marine, created the Pitch In initiative on litter and illegal dumping.

This initiative includes promoting a clean environment through Pitch In signs at parks, on trails, beaches and farmland, cameras to deter and seek prosecution on illegal dumping, working with schools and organizations to educate the community about eliminating litter, and participating in monthly cleanups.

Sally-Christine along with the Trash Talkers and other nonprofits is organizing the first annual All-Santa Cruz County Cleanup Day on May 11. The goal is to make Santa Cruz the cleanest county in the state.

Staff of Life Market

Business of the Year

Staff of Life Market has not only brought a new store to Watsonville but also

has brought a vision of fostering healthier lifestyles and better access to quality food options for the people in South County.

Staff of Life Natural Foods has a focus on offering healthier, fresher, and higher quality food products. By providing an array of nutritious options, they are actively encouraging residents to make healthier choices.

From conducting health tours educating residents about nutrition to organizing free family fun events, Staff of Life actively engages with the community to promote well-being.

Through donations to local charities such as Second Harvest Food Bank, Loaves and Fishes, the Ag History Project, and chamber events, Staff of Life supporting those in need and strengthens the fabric of the community.

The beautiful new store, which opened in March 2021, is a testament to the company’s dedication to promoting healthy eating.

Watsonville Band

Organization of the Year

From its very first rehearsal in the Watsonville High School Band room on Feb. 23, 1947, the Watsonville Community Band was organized to provide its members the opportunity to play music for their enjoyment, community education, entertainment, and service, and to promote music as an inherited part of the community culture.

From the first performance at the Watsonville Independence Day Parade on July 4, 1947 to the 76th Annual Spring Concert Series in April, the band was designed to shout “Watsonville!” The band has entertained many, many places from California to Seattle, Chicago, Montreal, Calgary, Honolulu, 10 countries on two European tours, New Zealand, Australia, Washington, D.C. (twice!), and innumerable small towns. They’ve been on local, regional, national, and global television, including a concert in prime-time TV in Mexico City — all with a brilliant red banner shouting “Watsonville” to one and all!

The band is, quite literally, a family. Spouses, partners, and significant others have always been considered as much members of the band as are performers. All band events are open to family members, children as well. While members must have adequate musical skills, there are no auditions, dues or other financial demands. This is an adult band, but high school and even advanced student musicians are welcomed.

With cutbacks to music education in local schools, the band stepped up, founding in 2016 the Watsonville Youth Band, open to all comers who want to learn to play a band instrument, or improve their skills. Staffed by volunteers from the band (all credentialed teachers) the Youth Band joins the adult band on the spring and winter concerts at the Henry Mello Center in Watsonville, and performs solo as well. The program operates during the school year and offers a summer program, too! When the summer band is finished, it’s off to the Boardwalk for a day of reward and fun!

No member of the band has ever received payment or compensation, including the conductor, president, business manager, or board members. Since 2005 the band has been a 501c (3) nonprofit.

The band offers its entertainment free of charge — always!

2023 Veteran’s Day Parade and Program Event of

the Year

The Veterans Day Parade and Program is an annual special event that recognizes all local community residents who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and their families.

The 2023 Parade, which started at Saint Patrick’s Church, was led by the Chesty Puller Battalion, U.S. Naval Sea Cadets Corps. About 60 veterans marched on Main Street to the Mello Center; some rode on Watsonville fire engines.

At the Mello Center, 60 members of the Watsonville Community Band played for 25 minutes for 400 people in attendance—75% capacity. At 11 a.m., the time the armistice was signed, the bell rang. Diana McGuffey sang “The Star Spangled Banner” and Leon Panetta, secretary of defense (2011-2013), said, “We are here most importantly to honor all veterans, particularly for those that put their lives on the line. We honor all of them, veterans from the past, the present and yes, we will honor those who will serve in the future as well.”

McGuffey, accompanied by the Watsonville Community Band, led the audience in a sing-along of Woody Guthrie’s “This Land is Your Land.” Awards were presented to U.S. Army Sgt. Richard Squier, Freedom VFW Post 1716, and U.S. Army Specialist David Trevino, Watsonville American Legion Post 121.

Watsonville Applebee’s invited all the veterans, their families and friends for lunch. n

The Awards Dinner will be 4-9 p.m. Saturday, July 27 at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 E. Lake Ave., Watsonville. Tickets are $100 at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ pajaro-valley-chamber-of-commerce-annualawards-dinner-auction-tickets-888689663707 or call the Chamber at (831) 724-3900. See www. pajarovalleychamber.com.

Sally-Christine Rodgers

COMMUNITY NEWS

Pajaro Valley Seniors Earn Seal of Biliteracy

On May 2, Pajaro Valley Unified School District honored 134 seniors district-wide at Watsonville High’s Mello Center for earning their Seal of Biliteracy, with the new superintendent, Dr. Heather Contreras, who joined PVUSD May 1, in attendance to personally congratulate each student.

All of these students met the second language proficiency requirements.

Michael Berman, director of equity, accountability, and federal and state programs, said, “Every student being recognized on May 2 should feel proud! This award is a testament to the District’s recognition of the importance of cultural literacy and the value of language proficiency in our global society.”

PVUSD offers a range of language courses that fulfill biliteracy requirements. Recipients of the Seal of Biliteracy will receive a special seal on their high school diploma, and this achievement will be noted on the student’s school transcript.

“Discovery” from page 15

In the cover article of the journal Science, published April 11, Zehr, Coale, Kendra Turk-Kubo and Wing Kwan Esther Mak from UC Santa Cruz, and collaborators from UC San Francisco, the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, National Taiwan Ocean University, and Kochi University in Japan show that UCYN-A imports proteins from its host cells.

“That’s one of the hallmarks of something moving from an endosymbiont to an organelle,” said Zehr. “They start throwing away pieces of DNA, and their genomes get smaller and smaller, and they start depending on the mother cell for those gene products — or the protein itself — to be transported into the cell.”

Tyler Coale worked on the proteomics for the study. He compared the proteins found within isolated UCYN-A with those found in the entire algal host cell. He found that the host cell makes proteins and labels them with a specific amino acid sequence, which tells the cell to send them to the nitroplast. The nitroplast then imports the proteins and uses them. Coale identified the function of some of the proteins, and they fill gaps in certain pathways within UCYN-A.

“It’s kind of like this magical jigsaw puzzle that actually fits together and works,” said Zehr.

Changing Perspectives

The organelle also provides insight into ocean ecosystems. All organisms need nitrogen in a biologically usable form,

Aptos Graduation Ceremonies

Aptos Junior High noon June 5

Kaiser Permanente Arena, Santa Cruz. Aptos High

5 p.m. June 5

Kaiser Permanente Area, Santa Cruz.

6th grade promotion

Rio Del Mar Elementary

8:30 a.m. June 7

Valencia Elementary

10 a.m. June 7

The California Department of Education provides a medallion to each recipient, to be worn at graduation.

Spanish remains the predominant language for which students received the seal. Mixteco, French and Mandarin follow as the next most popular language choices at PVUSD. n

and UCYN-A is globally important for its ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. Researchers have found it everywhere from the tropics to the Arctic Ocean, and it fixes a significant amount of nitrogen.

“It’s not just another player,” said Zehr.

The discovery also has the potential to change agriculture. The ability to synthesize ammonia fertilizers from atmospheric nitrogen allowed agriculture — and the world population — to take off in the early 20th century. Known as the Haber-Bosch process, it makes possible about 50% of the world’s food production. It also creates enormous amounts of carbon dioxide: about 1.4% of global emissions come from the process.

For decades, researchers have tried to figure out a way to incorporate natural nitrogen fixation into agriculture.

“This system is a new perspective on nitrogen fixation, and it might provide clues into how such an organelle could be engineered into crop plants,” said Coale.

But plenty of questions about UCYN-A and its algal host remain unanswered. The researchers plan to delve deeper into how UCYN-A and the alga operate and study different strains.

Kendra Turk-Kubo, an assistant professor at UC Santa Cruz, will continue the research in her new lab. Zehr expects scientists will find other organisms with evolutionary stories similar to UCYN-A, but as the first of its kind, this discovery is one for the textbooks. n

Courtesy of UC Santa Cruz

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Better Santa Cruz: Focus on Housing Attainability

By Kaelin Wagnermarsh

During the past year we have seen some correlations between many of the systemic issues we’ve been investigating. The overall goal for Better Santa Cruz is a thriving Santa Cruz.

For Santa Cruz to be thriving, this is what we see as being needed:

• Opportunity for its citizens

• Healthy citizenry

• Sustainable environment

• Safe environment

• Attainable housing

• Strong and accountable systemic structures from budgetary, to the education system, to available services, judicial, jails, foster care, etc.

One thing that we believe is a starting point to all of this is availability of housing for all its citizens.

One cannot take advantage of opportunity if they are not able to take a shower before an interview, one cannot be safe if many of its citizens are in an unstable situation. One cannot be healthy without a consistent, safe place to recover.

Considering Santa Cruz is the most unaffordable place to live, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, housing affordability is a key peace to this puzzle. Step one, in our opinion.

So, for the next year Better Santa Cruz is shifting our focus to Housing Attainability. Instead of monthly panels, we are moving toward an event every few months to highlight actionable items and areas of impact toward our current focus-- attainable housing in Santa Cruz for all its citizens.

On May 21, we will host a Housing Discussion Meet-up, a more informal event to encourage discussion among the community. We are very excited about this, and more details to follow soon.

In the meantime, here are some events worth attending:

Costs and benefits of affordable housing — Zoom meeting with architects FORA Tuesday May 14 from 11 am- 12:30 pm. https://www.housingsantacruzcounty. com/affordable-housing-month/ emd0jpy8rurj3scsv5luwo7vrwp3xt County wide housing programs, — location tba, Monday May 13 from 5 – 7 pm. https://www.housingsantacruzcounty.com/affordable-housing-month /5us7vyirc8i3eu5azpoxu3mxyne2jv Housing Challenges and Solutions with Geoffrey Morgan of CHISPA, — Miriam Greenberg of UC Santa Cruz, Julie Conway, Matt Huerta: May 16 from 5:30 – 8 pm at 1807 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz https://www.housingsantacruzcounty. com/affordable-housing-month/ ewa00d453ln3k3p62e8w966rilx44b Affordable Housing Month Kick Off — Dr Margo Kushel, Saturday May 4, 6-8 pm at the Hotel Paradox https:// www.housingsantacruzcounty. com/affordable-housing-month/ affordable-housing-month-kickoff Housing Matter’s March to End Homelessness — Saturday, May 18 from 10 am-12:30 pm, Santa Cruz City Hall, 809 Center St, Santa Cruz https://housingmatterssc.org/event/march2024/ n

COMMUNITY NEWS

Women Building Homes for Habitat for Humanity

On March 16, Santa Cruz County Bank employees took part in Women Build Month, volunteering for Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay at the Rodeo Creek Court project, an 11-home development in Live Oak.

Volunteers included Krista Snelling, Cecilia Situ, Brianna Carabba, Heather Schnell, Jenny Grove, Dara Harris, Kim Luke, Yadira Rudoni and Jessica Lopez. The team worked under the direction of Habitat’s professional construction crew, led by Construction Managers Dylan Childs and Keaton Port-Gaarn, and Construction Associate Sal Dibiasi. Together with Habitat’s homeowners, the SCCB team assisted on preparing century-old chicken coop wood for re-use, priming and painting wood panels for a planned children’s playhouse, installing solar panels on a roof, and sealing the walls of a shower/tub area in preparation for tile installation.

After four years of construction, the Rodeo Creek Court development is in its final stages,

with a completion date expected in early summer this year. The development includes five two-story duplexes and one ADA-accessible single-story home. Finishing touches on the last phase of the dwelling units, along with work on the development’s common areas, are the final tasks to be completed.

Krista Snelling, president and CEO of Santa Cruz County Bank, who joined bank staff at the site again this year, said, “We are so thrilled to contribute to the completion of the Rodeo Creek Court site. The Build days we have participated in over the years have been meaningful and rewarding. We’re grateful for our longstanding partnership with Habitat Monterey Bay and for their dedication to housing families in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties. We’re excited to celebrate as the families move into their new homes.”

Satish Rishi, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay, said, “We are immensely grateful for their team’s tenacity and generosity.” n

On April 19, the City of Santa Cruz was awarded $4 million from the state Encampment Resolution Fund, one of 17 communities awarded $192 million with the goal to move homeless individuals into housing. Twelve projects are designed to resolve encampments along state rights-of-way. Typically, the state awards funds to counties.

A state audit this month found that

despite allocating $24 billion to tackle homelessness over the past five years, California has done little to track whether that spending improved the situation. For this round of funds, cities and counties are expected to produce more data.

The 2023 point in time count in Santa Cruz County reported 1,804 unhoused individuals, down from 2,299 in 2022.

“Homeless Funding” page 31

Santa Cruz County Bank employees volunteered at Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay’s Rodeo Creek Court development. From left, back row: Jenny Grove, Yadira Rudoni, Krista Snelling, Dara Harris, Brianna Carabba, Heather Schnell; front row: Kim Luke, Jessica Lopez, Cecilia Situ.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Volunteer Center to Recognize Community Service Stars

The Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County will present Be the Difference awards to 33 individuals and organizations on Wednesday, May 8, from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at the Boardwalk’s Cocoanut Grove Ballroom.

Here is the list of honorees: Arts & Culture

David Lyng Real Estate, Capitola

Sue Dormanen of Soquel, Santa Cruz

Shakespeare

Pat McVeigh, Habitat for Humanity

Judy Stabile, Pajaro Valley Arts Building Community

100+ Women Who Care

Crew Point Logistics LLC

Erica Chapin, Volunteer Center’s disaster response team

Terri Fisher, Santa Cruz Hostel

Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay “Golden Hammer Crew”

Gerry Jensen, Capitola advocate and activist

Nancy Murray, Santa Cruz County

Mounted Posse

Santa Cruz Elks Lodge

Environmental Stewardship & Sustainability

Ecology Action Bike Repair Program

Geoff Alexander, Soquel, Advocates for the Forest of Nisene Marks

Nicola Wagner , Homeless Garden Project

Suzanne MacLean, Homeless Garden Project

Dean Spieller, Homeless Garden Project

Tom and Libby Purdy, Ben Lomond, Wilder Ranch State Park Docents

Families & Youth

Cradle to Career Santa Cruz County

Daryl Wise, Shared Adventures volunteer

Debbie Falconer, Santa Cruz SPCA

Dora Gonzalez, CASA Court Appointed Special Advocates

Natalie Martinez, Watsonville community volunteer

Health & Wellness

Gardenia Amor Y Bienestar Para La Mujer

Teen Kitchen Project Delivery Angels, Soquel

Gary Bencomo, Dientes dental and nonprofit champion

Gerri Ashton, Hospice of Santa Cruz County

Jennifer Fenton, The Equine Healing Collaborative

Social & Economic Justice

The Santa Cruz Welcoming Network

Dennis Cavaille, Felton, tutor with the Volunteer Center Literacy Program

MaryJo Van Verth, Aptos, Team Just Us

Sister Rosa Dolores Rodriguez, Casa de la Cultura, Pajaro

Tickets for the luncheon cost $60. Purchase at https://interland3.donorperfect.net/ weblink/weblink.aspx?id=67&name =E162036 n

COMMUNITY NEWS

Insurance Chief Proposes Reform

Consumer Watchdog says Transparency Needed

Carmen Balber, executive director of the nonprofit Consumer Watchdog, is not impressed by California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara’s reform proposals for setting insurance rates. He proposed to allow use of catastrophe models for fire and flood; currently that is allowed only for earthquakes and fire after earthquakes.

Consumer Watchdog’s view: “Black box catastrophe models are notoriously contradictory and unreliable, which is why public review and transparency are key before insurance companies are allowed to use them to raise rates. Commissioner Lara’s proposed rule appears drafted to limit the information available to the public about the impact of models on rates in violation of Proposition 103.”

Balber added, “The rule fails to spell out whether or how the Department of Insurance would assess a model’s bias, accuracy, or the validity of the science, instead creating a pre-review process that appears primarily focused on determining what information companies must disclose and what they may conceal from public view.”

The rule proposes use of non-disclosure agreements to meet confidentiality demands.

Balber pointed out, “If a nondisclosure agreement prevents public interest organizations from sharing their analysis of a model with the public, public participation in a review is meaningless.”

She noted the rule proposes to allow allowing the Commissioner, at his discretion, to approve use of catastrophe models in any line of insurance.

“That could mean auto, non-wildfire residential or commercial, cyber insurance and more,” she said. “It would also allow insurers

“If a nondisclosure agreement prevents public interest organizations from sharing their analysis of a model with the public, public participation in a review is meaningless.”

— Carmen Balber

to use models to predict all losses, not just catastrophe losses, a dramatic departure from current practice and one that would guarantee an explosion of rates.”

In her view, “California needs a public catastrophe model to ensure climate data is transparent and to prevent insurance pricegouging and bias.”

Amy Bach, executive director of United Policyholders, a nonprofit dedicated to getting homeowners resources and information to get insured, said homeowners may have to consider insurers they have never heard of.

She sees “paranoia” by insurers worried about the drought, dead trees, high value homes destroyed, cost of materials and labor to rebuild.

She thinks the state is doing everything it can while private sector businesses are doing what they think is necessary.

For homeowners who have lost their insurance, Bach recommends finding a good agent to locate a new policy.

She’s also an advocate of creating defensible space around a home even though homeowners aren’t getting the discounts from insurance companies for doing that work. n •••

Resources: ConsumerWatchdog.org and uphelp.org

Beware Scammer

Impersonating Sheriff Deputy

On April 26, a Scotts Valley resident posted on NextDoor to draw attention to a scam, and the post got 74 comments.

Here is the warning:

“Please be aware of the scam that’s going around! Tell your family, tell your friends! The caller left a vm (husband will not answer unknown numbers, unless he’s expecting a call) caller ID’d himself as Sargent Mark Yanez with the Santa Cruz

County Sheriff Department. Calling from 831-231-6419.

Husband listened to vm and the man said he was calling to discuss a legal matter that requires immediate attention. My husband called him back. He told him he was calling to let him know that he (he stated my husbands full name and home address) had TWO active warrants for failing to appear to jury duty in Superior Court on April 8.

“Beware Phone Scam” page 26

USPS Issues Betty Ford Stamp Former First Lady Known for her Candor,

On April 5, the Postal Service issued a commemorative stamp celebrating the life of former First Lady Betty Ford on the campus of Eisenhower Health, adjacent to the Betty Ford Center in Rancho Mirage.

She was the wife of Gerald R. Ford, the 38th president, and widely admired for her support of women’s rights and her candor about the serious health challenges she faced.

The stamp was dedicated by Amber McReynolds, vice chair of the Postal Service’s Board of Governors. Also attending were Susan Ford Bales, Betty Ford’s daughter; Marty Massiello, CEO of Eisenhower Health; Dr. Joseph Lee, president and CEO of the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation; and Tessa Voss, also of the foundation.

“It is fitting for the Postal Service to honor Mrs. Ford this way, because she was an outspoken and enthusiastic supporter of women’s rights and aspirations. Our organization has a proud record of providing opportunities for women throughout its history,” said McReynolds. “The first female postmaster, Mary Katharine Goddard, took office in Baltimore all the way back in 1775, and today, more than half of all postmasters are women.”

Bales said, “With this magnificent stamp, the Postal Service and the American people pay tribute to a woman of extraordinary courage and candor, to a transformative first lady, and to a devoted wife. In so doing they honor a woman that, today and in my every tomorrow, I am so proud to call Mom.”

Lee said, “There are times when courageous people stand up and change the conversation for America.

Betty Ford did that for both breast cancer and addiction — replacing shame and isolation with dignity, community and equitable care. Thanks to her, millions of people in this country felt seen for the very first time. And that is why Betty Ford is a national treasure, and why all of us feel inspired for a lifetime to carry her charge.”

married William C. Warren in 1942, divorcing him in 1947.

A couple of months after her divorce, she began dating a local lawyer, Gerald R. Ford. They married on Oct. 15, 1948, while he was running for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Three weeks later, he won, and the couple would spend the next 28 years in Washington, D.C. They welcomed four children from 1950 to 1957.

Ford was born Elizabeth Anne Bloomer on April 8, 1918, in Chicago. At age 2, she moved with her family to Grand Rapids, Michigan, where she spent her childhood.

Young Betty began dancing at the age of 8 and excelled, moving to New York City to study under the legendary Martha Graham and joining her troupe to perform at Carnegie Hall. She returned to Grand Rapids and

Gerald Ford rose to the role of House minority leader in 1965. On Oct. 10, 1973, Vice President Spiro Agnew resigned, and two days later, Ford was nominated to replace him, assuming the office on Dec. 6. As the Watergate scandal deepened, President Richard Nixon resigned on Aug. 9, 1974, making Gerald Ford the first U.S. president who had never been elected president or vice president.

The new first lady was popular with the American public. She was outspoken and frank, speaking about previously taboo topics.

After being diagnosed with breast cancer, Ford underwent a mastectomy on Sept. 28, 1974. While the medical issues of previous first ladies weren’t always disclosed, Ford chose to share the story of her operation. The awareness

she brought caused a spike of self-examinations leading to a rise in reported cases that became known as the “Betty Ford blip.”

Ford fought openly for women’s rights, often conflicting with the stances of her husband’s Republican Party. She campaigned tirelessly for the Equal Rights Amendment, which would have mandated constitutional equality for all Americans, regardless of gender. The first lady wrote letters, called senators and representatives, and traveled across the country to lobby for the amendment’s passage. She persuaded her husband to appoint more women to his administration than any previous president and lobbied him to appoint the first woman to the Supreme Court or as his running mate.

“I do not believe that being first lady should prevent me from expressing my views,” she said.

Ford began taking prescription pain pills for a pinched nerve in her neck in 1964 and, over time, developed an addiction to her medication as well as alcohol. In 1978, she entered the Naval Regional Medical Hospital in Long Beach, for treatment. As with her breast cancer, she publicly acknowledged her illness, putting a face to the disease and forever changing the American public’s perception of the issue.

“Betty Ford” page 25

Ryan Coonerty to Lead Leadership Santa Cruz County

Leadership Santa Cruz County announces former county supervisor Ryan Coonerty as its new executive director, succeeding Dave Vincent, who has filled the role on an interim basis since September.

Coonerty, 50, is a former two-time Santa Cruz mayor and two-term county supervisor and an entrepreneur, author, and educator with a passion for leadership. He has been a senior policy advisor for San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan since 2023.

“Santa Cruz County will thrive or struggle in the coming decades depending on the quality of our leaders,” Coonerty said. “I look forward to building on a strong program

by providing people the skills, knowledge and connections they need to effectively lead. Leadership Santa Cruz County helped shape my knowledge of our community decades ago, I can’t wait to work with the next generation of leaders.”

Coonerty will be responsible for strategic planning, program development, fundraising, and community engagement. He will work with the board of directors, staff, volunteers, and community partners.

“He brings with him an extensive knowledge of the inner workings of our community, he has wellestablished relationships with leaders throughout the county, and a clear vision for what LSCC can become in the years ahead,”

Vincent said.

Vincent, who was executive director from 2008 to 2019 after working for State Parks, voiced enthusiasm for Coonerty.

Reunion

Sandy Weaver D’Amato, left, of Watsonville, and Janet Thorne of Brigham City, Utah, chat on opening night with Steve “Spike” Wong of Soquel, their eighth grade classmate and one of the stars of “White Sky, Falling Dragon,” which he wrote and directed, based on his father’s World War II experience. The show is at Actors Theatre for one more weekend and closes May 5. Curtain at 7:30 p.m. with 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets at https://www.santacruzactorstheatre.org/

“Betty Ford” from page 24

In 1982, Ford and Leonard Firestone, a former ambassador and family friend, established the Betty Ford Center for treatment of alcoholism and addiction, now part of the nonprofit Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. She agreed to lend her name to the center, hoping to destigmatize treatment at a time when it wasn’t spoken about — especially by women — and options for treatment were scarce. Ford insisted there be equal number of beds for women and men and became chair of the board of directors.

Derry Noyes, an art director for USPS, designed the stamp using a detail from the official 1977 White House portrait by Felix de Cossio. The oil-on-canvas portrait, which is part of the White House collection, courtesy of The White House Historical Association, shows Mrs. Ford seated, wearing a pale blue chiffon dress. “Betty Ford” is written in white across the bottom of the stamp, with the word “Forever” positioned at the upper-left side.

The Betty Ford stamp is being issued in panes of 20 and is a Forever stamp, meaning it will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail 1ounce price. n

Board Chair Shaz Roth said, “On behalf of the board, we are thrilled to welcome Ryan. We are confident that under his guidance, LSCC will continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.”

The fee to participate in the leadership training is $1,400; scholarships are available.

The deadline to apply for the next class is July 31. n

For info about Leadership Santa Cruz County and its program, visit leadershipsanta cruzcounty.org or call 831-419-5007

Founded in 1985, Leadership Santa Cruz County is a nonprofit that teaches a broad base of community knowledge to class members, provides field trips to tourist and agricultural buisnesses and human service providers, and creates opportunities for participants to interact with leaders in government, education, criminal justice, and other industries.

Fictional Mothers

65. R&R hot spot

67. Capital of Vietnam 68. Yours is as good as mine?

69. Tennis retry

70. Cause anxiety (2 words)

71. Bookie’s quote

Well-kept secret, for some

Teatime treat

Do like volcano

Honey home

Iris holder

Human trunk

iPad “pen”

daughter 60. *Elizabeth Zott of “____ in Chemistry”

Vernacular

*Matriarch, ____ Munster of “The Munsters”

Widely hunted ruminant

A particular legume

Ryan Coonerty

Taurus: Beauty, Bible, Egypt, Moses & the Ten Commandments

Esoteric

“Beware Phone Scam” from page 23

Taurus. the second sign of the zodiac (Aries, Taurus), where beauty and stability are significant, is the sign that rules the neck, throat and shoulders. Famous singers are often Taurus people. Taurus is fixed earth (each sign works with an element) sign and this is both the purpose behind and reason for how they value possessions, resources, money and land. Their spiritual purpose is to maintain as much in form as possible so that seven generations into the future can be well taken care of. The symbol for Taurus is a bull or calf, a celestial spiritual animal. Bulls are serene, seeking sweet grass in wide meadows. Taurus flows through Venus, planet of beauty and love, values and money. Many consider Taurus to be stubborn (like a bull). But being stubborn is not the reality. Taurus must think deeply about matters before making decisions and this often is interpreted, thought of, judged and seen as being stubborn. Their hesitancy and saying “no” means “Give me time to think things through, to adjust my previous thoughts, to adapt to t new reality.”

Risa D’Angeles

and were enslaved in Egypt. When the Age of Taurus was over (ages last 2,500 years) the Hebrew people, led by Moses (an Initiate), were taken out of Egypt. They were walking from the end of the Taurus Age to the beginning of the Aries Age. This “walk” or journey took forty years. The desert sojourn was a time of purification which allowed their identity as slaves to fall away.

Ancient Egypt and the Age of Taurus. In the Bible we find a story about the Age of Taurus. It signified the time the Hebrew people lived

ARIES

Jupiter, the heart of Aquarius, calls you to leadership in the creation of the new culture and civilization. This great god provides you with courage, inimitable daring and mental audacity to see far into the future and adapt and reorient your professional talents for the progress of humanity. You will resist being overbearing and arrogant, opposing virtues of a good leader. You will travel and your gifts will be recognized.

TAURUS

Through study, possible travel, and involvement with many different occult and historic, artistic and philosophical studies, you learn how different countries are meeting the needs of their people. You adapt them to the need of the country you live in. It is natural that previously held beliefs and possible prejudices cease as perspectives expand and knowledge leads to wisdom. You will then bring needed change to your community. Think soil, food, fish, algae, biodynamics and building with nature.

GEMINI

We must always begin with ourselves before offering change to the world. In coming months, a deep psychological self-awareness unfolds that offers a deep healing to your past. This liberates your energy and creates an inner regeneration. You then will understand more deeply the suffering of humanity and apply your love/wisdom to their needs. Many benefit from your loving beneficence. You will receive and then share a spiritual inheritance.

CANCER

An inner need to help others grows more and more each day. Partnerships will be formed around the common themes of nurturing and caring those less fortunate. You are to cultivate gardens, animals, build storehouses of food, medicines, seeds, water and books for many in need may be arriving at a later date. For those who are married, attending to these tasks together enhances your original vows and promises.

While in the desert, continuing to be led by Moses, God gave to the people the Ten Commandments (Laws of the Aries Age). Moses remained on the mountain so long that his people became restless and frightened. Not knowing what to do or even if Moses would return, the people turned back to what they knew and understood, which was their religion during the Taurus Age (gold, materialism, sex, food, comforts of the flesh — appropriate during the Taurus Age) and they built a golden calf.

When Moses returned from the mountaintop with the Ten Commandments and saw the golden calf he destroyed it — for the previous age of Taurus and all that was to be learned in Taurus was to be over. (continued mid-month) n

LEO

Realizing humanity (Aquarius) is your marriage partner, you will openly and willingly seek to offer creative and artistic skills to humanity as greater and greater needs surface in the world. As your true purpose of help and healing surfaces, you cultivate and better understand your creative strength, power and might. You will work hard to achieve balance and harmony for the kingdoms (earth, animals, plants, human) summoning you. Your health is vital. Lead with both power and love.

VIRGO

More and more your true self becomes apparent, the vital essential inner beauty of self. You then become yourself, no longer dutiful or fearful and acting as expected but a new confident expression comes forth. This authentic self becomes useful to others. You are the sign of the mother who feeds the world. Your heart must be open to the world before you can attempt to nourish it. Think about food gardens — biodynamic and hydroponic. Why are they useful for the coming times?

LIBRA

As the year unfolds, as the continuing crisis also continues, humanity will seek safety, healing, peace and security, and they must be found in many different ways. It is good to consider using your resources to seek land, create community and provide a stable purposeful village, commons, center for those close to you. Your generosity toward friends will expand to include many more. Something new is soon coming into the world. It will be a shake-up. You have the ability to create and sustain comfort, solace, security — psychological gifts soon needed.

SCORPIO

Although you are considered the hermit of the zodiac, it will surprise you (and others) that in times to come you will emerge from your cave and offer the world vital and needed information. Your research into the coming times makes you more knowledgeable than most about a coming upheaval and reorientation. It’s good to study and train in survival skills. Extended travel may be necessary forging newly formed relationships. Mental confusion, questioning and fears will cease. As world need arises, you step to the forefront.

He stated that a letter was sent to him in February and it has his signature on it. And because he didn’t show up to court he has 2 active warrants. One was for Failure to appear ($750) and Failure to Comply ($750). And that he would have to pay the $1400.00 today or he would be arrested. He told him that he could pay by one of those wallet venmo type, and if he didn’t, that he would be arrested.

The most crazy part of this scam is that the scammer said that he couldn’t hang up the phone or that he would send his deputies to arrest him. My husband came home (he had been on a hike) and asked me to call the sheriff and verify if this was real. When dispatch answered, I explained what was happening. She immediately said, ITS A SCAM!

SAGITTARIUS

Perhaps you are not aware of this but you have been in training on using resources carefully and wisely. In the coming times, resources we’ve placed great importance on will dwindle and new resources will gradually become available. You will be very sensitive to these new resources — how to seek, find and obtain them. Then, because your compassion is developed, you will share and disperse them judiciously, managing the new materialism with intelligence and prudence. The new materialism is the new sharing society.

CAPRICORN

You will understand a new cycle is appearing in our world and your inherent leadership, governing and democratic skills come to light. No longer hiding talents under propriety or childhood wounds, you become a resource for others in how to survive difficult challenges. You’re ahead and at the top now, providing everyone with direction in constructing the new culture and civilization. There will be many ladders to climb. You provide a creative impulse for others to follow.

AQUARIUS

Deeply spiritual and religious dimensions have begun to reveal themselves to you. Seeking to know your past lives, seeking to help heal others, these are a few of what is new thinking in your life. Aquarians will become new era ministers and healers and the new scientists will eventually prove the Soul’s existence. Empathy and dispassion grow along with keen observational abilities. You may help build the new Noah’s Ark through writing and/or publishing. Humanity will seek comfort from the future you already know of and live in. Keyword: listening.

PISCES

There is an aspiration within calling you to offer humanity a place where education, culture, knowledge and wisdom flourish. This place will be found. You will teach others to have hope, ideas, goals and wishes, all of which impact the future. You will teach the new values needed on our planet that will create the new materialism (spiritually focused goals). You will not work alone. Many will share your visions. Your communication and how you live will assist others in understanding the coming social reforms. You will build that community. It’s already in the etheric plane.

My husband told the scammer that he was hanging up and the scammer said, thank you sir. The scammer had a southern draw and said, the word, sir alot! Anyway, I know when you read this you’ll say, oh yeah, SCAM! That’s easy to spot!

But, to my husband, he wanted to be respectful to law enforcement and verify the truth of the call. He said he wasn’t going to pay any money until he had the truth. It’s shocking when you hear someone say that you’re going to be arrested and that you need to pay a $1400.00 bond to get out of it! This creep had everything planned out and I’m sure it seemed real when he was talking to him. I’m glad he thought to use another phone and call the Sheriff to verify! I can’t help but think of a person who is home along and the SCAMMER saying, “You can’t hang the phone up or you’ll be arrested!” The SCAMMER even said that if it was a false charge that he would get the $1400.00 back. RIGHT! SURE!

DON”T FALL FOR IT!

I found a couple of other posts on FB that were saying just about the same thing had happened to them!

My husband emailed the Sheriff with the details of the call. Otherwise, there is so much wrong and illegal about this! Wondering how someone this evil can sleep at night or even live with themselves?

Be Safe Everyone!”

The most crazy part of this scam is that the scammer said that he couldn’t hang up the phone or that he would send his deputies to arrest him. My husband came home (he had been on a hike) and asked me to call the sheriff and verify if this was real. When dispatch answered, I explained what was happening. She immediately said, ITS A SCAM!

How Girls Inc. Changed My Life

By Alondra Coraza-Espinoza

I’m 16 years old and have been a participant of Girls Inc. for 6 years. I joined Girls Inc. in elementary school with the “Growing Together” program and later on followed during middle school and now high school.

Before participating in this amazing organization, I was a really shy kid who would be in her own little bubble. I struggled with being social, especially with my peers around me in elementary school. I was always constantly thinking bad about myself and had very bad self-esteem. Having the accessibility to attend the program helped me express myself and gather confidence in myself.

power/Won’t power, the summer before my freshman year — in the Smart Choices program, we got to spend a week at UC Santa Cruz and experienced college life, and most recently in the high school leadership mentoring program, ECHO.

Editor’s note: Girls Inc. of the Central Coast, celebrating 20 years this year, hosted its sixth Annual Spring Luncheon “Celebrating Strong, Smart and Bold Girls” with 200+ attendees at Seascape Golf Club in Aptos, honoring Virginia Howard and raising more than $60,000. Among the schools where Girls Inc. is available: Aptos Junior High, Mar Vista Elementary and Rio Del Mar Elementary.

Girls Inc. doesn’t care about race, ethnicity, background, or financial problems. They emphasize advocating for us girls and supporting us in our future. I have been able to grow both mentally and physically here.

I was able to participate in five of the Girls Inc. programs: Growing Together with my mom, the 7th grade program — Friendly Peersuasion, the 8th grade program — Will

There are multiple activities I vividly remember doing, a dream board focusing on our future goal, making a healthy snack, crafts and painting. These hands-on activities helped me escape the constant stress I felt back then. It was an environment I could always rely on to relax in. Some of the topics that we went over in these programs were budgeting, being a better friend, self-care, preparing for a job interview, managing stress, learning about our bodies, and what to expect when they’re changing.

There are many things I learned about myself through the programs, which helped me become a better, healthier version of myself every day.

I take 10 minutes every night to meditate and be thankful for the day. Even when I have a hard day, I’ll find at least three nice things

to be thankful about. I learned how to see the world in a bigger picture and how there are many opportunities for me to keep on thriving in life.

Girls Inc. has given me the motivation to work harder toward my education so I can one day reach the goals that I once put on my dream board. Girls Inc. helped me learn that I don’t have to stay in a toxic atmosphere but can branch out and have a loving one.

Additionally, Girls Inc. offers their high school programs to have the ability to visit universities in California. For example, I had the opportunity to visit UC Davis, UC Berkeley, Stanford, Santa Clara, and the state capital. On the capital trip, I got to learn more about its history, speak with our legislatures, learn the process for a bill to become law, and about further workforces where women can take place. As I have said before, Girls Inc. does help us to expand our knowledge which has proven to be very beneficial to me, someone who lives in a low-income community.

I enjoy Girls Inc. and its programs, being able to have a friendship with the mentors, and being able to create friendships that were once broad but are now more intimate. Every time I sign up for a new program with Girls Inc. I would convince my friends to also sign up, telling them that they would have a fun

time and would find the information given very important. Through this organization, I have been able to form friendships and connections with others like no other, but most importantly, I am proud to say that the shy kid I once was is gone.

I was able to find peace, confidence, courage, and love within myself and I have all of this to owe to Girls Inc. As I continue with my journey in life, I will always remember this important factor that led me to shed my skin and become the person I am today. n

Alondra Coraza-Espinoza is a junior at Watsonville High School.

Youth Environmental Summit: Goal to Inspire Change

By Sylvi Kayser

On April 22, student-led leadership group Youth for Environmental Action hosted their fourth annual Summit to focus on environmental justice and sustainability catered to youth by youth.

The Summit, titled Earth Day Every Day: Our Environment is Up to Us, attracted 250 attendees from Santa Cruz County. Students were introduced to guest speakers from National Geographic, speakers on school food systems, a community fair of local environmentally conscious organizations, and school district collaboration.

Students were asked their concerns for the environment as well as goals for their school.

Mason Lepold of San Lorenzo Valley High mentioned sustainable clean water being a top priority.

“I’m in an agriculture class and we’ve been talking about how complex California’s water system is,” Lepold said, hoping to find more sustainable ways to get water locally.

This cry for local sustainability was a recurring theme, with Michael Shatraw from Soquel focusing on monitoring campfires to prevent the spread of flames.

Aptos High student Sylvi Kayser and Delta student Sion Erkiletian, both YEA leaders, discussed socioeconomic issues that come with sustainable items.

“It really goes back to the lack of government subsidization of organic food especially, with such a big price difference,” said Kayser.

Erkiletian said sustainable products shouldn’t be more

expensive, as they should be open for everyone, for each individual plays a crucial part in environmental action.

For next steps, students were able to directly connect with their school administrators and staff to voice their hopes for schools.

During the student-district collaboration, students and staff were asked to create their ideal schools–including what waste management would look like, what the curriculum would entail, and what the school culture of environmental hope would be.

Attendees broke into groups based on their high schools. Districts attending included Pajaro Valley Unified, San Lorenzo Valley Unified, and Scotts Valley Unified.

Here, all participants reviewed data from the YEA Survey

on School Environmental Action, sent out the previous month. More than 1,100 responses from students and administration were received in this anonymous survey, which found 83% of students were concerned to extremely concerned for the environment and only 31% felt hopeful for the future.

These staggering figures further demonstrate the need to include youth in discussions of our world.

A majority of students felt there was no one they could voice their concerns to. Students are one of the most affected groups of climate change, yet they are often left out of these conversations.

With the summit, YEA hopes to provide an outlet where adolescents can speak their worries to the leaders of their schools.

During this discussion, there was an overwhelming wish for improved waste management, including implementing compost and recycling systems. Students want to see increased sustainability such as bulk condiments and biodegradable and/or bamboo utensils. Accessible green spaces and/or the betterment of existing ones on campus were talked about. Numerous students voiced interest in joining YEA, as well as assisting in the summit.

With the summit, the YEA team hopes to have instilled a sense of emboldenment in students to initiate change in their schools, and with it, in the community of Santa Cruz itself. n

Sylvi Kayser is a sophomore at Aptos High School.

Alondra Coraza-Espinoza

YEA leaders, from left, Tess Reedy, Natasha Gunion, Sophia Lettiere with panel speakers (from left) Adam Bolaños Scow, Alisia Munoz-Roja, Jakki Castorena-Davila

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

ANNOUNCEMENTS

CALL FOR ARTISTS

Judy Gittelson of Studio Judy G, 430 Main St., Watsonville, is organizing an art exhibit about trains for June 9 – Aug. 10, and is asking artists to submit art about trains, views from the train seat, and the possibility of train travel in Santa Cruz County in the future.

Apply at www.studiojudyg.org. Entry deadline is May 15.

APTOS LIBRARY ACTIVITIES

Mon-Thur: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. • Fri-Sat: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Closed Sunday • 7695 Soquel Drive, Aptos

Sundays

First Sunday: ACT Advisory Council of Teens: 11 am to 1 pm

Mondays

Bridge Club, 10:30-noon, partnership with County Parks, except for Monday holidays

Writers Workshop, 1-3 p.m. 2nd & 4th Mondays

Tech Help in person, 1-3 p.m. weekly. Make an appointment (831-427-7713)

First Monday: SciFi Flicks, 6-8 p.m. Snacks provided.

Scheduled movies for 2024:

May: Star Wars: A New Hope

June: The Sixth Sense

July: Independence Day

August.: Beetlejuice

September: The Truman Show

October: The Addams Family

November: Everything Everywhere All At Once December: Nightmare Before Christmas Tuesdays

Storytime for ages 3-5, 11-11:30 am weekly Aptos Youth Chess Club, 3:30-4:30 pm weekly

Wednesdays

First and Third Wednesdays: Tales to Tails: Kids age 6-17 read to dogs, 3:30-4:30 pm. Must make appointment: 831-427-7713 Through June 18

First and Third Wednesdays: Pilates Classes: 12:30-1:30 p.m. (Bring your own yoga mat please)

Programs are first come first serve, and beginner friendly. Minecraft for ages 8-18, 3:30-5:30 pm Thursdays

Tai Chi, 10-11 am weekly

Mah Jongg 2-4 p.m. weekly

READ Help for Kids 3-5 pm weekly by appointment. Ages 6 to 18 with credentialed teachers. Email elibrary@ santacruzpl.org

First Thursdays: Friends of Aptos Library Meeting, 5-6 pm. Second Thursdays: Book Discussions, 1-2:30 pm online and in-person. Register at https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/ event/11782362

May 9: Fantasyland: How America went haywire by Kurt Anderson

Fridays

Third Fridays: Bring Your Own Book Discussion, 11 am12:30pm

PARK RX

Santa Cruz County Parks offers free fitness and tai chi classes for people 50+ at Anna Jean Cummings Park in Soquel. Gentle fitness with anaerobic conditioning and stretching started Tuesday April 9 at 9:30 a.m. Consult with your physician before you begin.

Tai Chi for beginners is 1-2 p.m. Wednesday and Friday from May 22 to July 19.

Wear sturdy, supportive footwear and bring water. Information: scparks.com

SUMMER ITALIAN CLASSES

Registration is now open for summer Italian language classes with Dante Alighieri Society.

Learn the language of “la dolce vita” with native Italian-speaking Instructors. Whether you are new to the Italian language, totally fluent, or everything in between, you will have an opportunity to practice via reading and discussion. The 8-week session has in-person classes

Have a virtual or live event you want to promote? E-mail info (no PDFs please) to info@cyber-times.com by May 8

and online classes. Read the descriptions carefully to determine the best class for you. The cost varies. Early bird discount pricing ends on May 12 and the last day to register is June 9. Classes start mid-June. To register go to: www.dantesantacruz.com/classes

FAIRGROUNDS FOUNDATION HERITAGE HOG SCHOLARSHIP

The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Foundation Heritage Hog Scholarship is offering a $3,000 scholarship to a college or other higher education bound student interested in raising a hog to be brought to the Santa Cruz County Fair and sold at the Junior Livestock Auction. Applications, with letters of recommendation, are due May 15. Proceeds from the auction, along with additional donations, are used for improvements to the Fairgrounds.

The Fairgrounds Foundation will provide the hog and feed and $3,000 to a student entering or attending college. This award will be allocated with verification of registration for full-time classes.

Students and/or their legal guardian must live in Santa Cruz County or within the Pajaro Valley Unified School District or the Aromas/San Juan Unified School District boundaries. The student must meet eligibility requirements to exhibit in the Swine Show.

Applications are at www.fairgrounds-foundation.org or at the Fairgrounds office; 2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville, or call (831) 786-9698.

SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE

The nonprofit California Legislative Central Coast Caucus Foundation offers a scholarship for students from the California Central Coast.

Eligible students must come from Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, or Ventura counties.

Candidates apply by visiting CLCCCF.org, where details about criteria and process are available. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. May 31.

COUNTY CLEANUP DAY COMING MAY 11

The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors announces the first “Santa Cruz County Cleanup Day,” Saturday, May 11.

The Board adopted the resolution to support designating the second Saturday in May as an annual clean-up day to improve local beaches, wetlands, riparian corridors, parks and other open spaces. The event is being led by the Trash Talkers Coalition, local leaders behind the Pitch In initiative focused on eliminating litter and illegal dumping and making Santa Cruz the cleanest county in California. The County is supporting the effort by allocating a portion of Measure C single-use cup funds toward public cleanup events in unincorporated Santa Cruz County by offering a disposal site fee waiver voucher. Participants must contact Kasey Kolassa by May 1 to

NINA SIMON VIRTUAL TALK

Wednesday May 8

4 p.m., Online and Capitola Branch Library, 2005 Wharf Road

request a voucher at: kasey.kolassa@santacruzcountyca. gov or fill out the online form at pitchinsantacruz.org. Fee cannot be waived for private property cleanups.

RECOGNIZE A TEACHER

Do you know a teacher who deserves to be recognized? Express your appreciation by completing the short form at https://santacruzcoe.org/recognize-an-educator/ When you’re done, a certificate of appreciation will be created and emailed to your nomination during Teacher Appreciation Week May 6-10. The deadline to submit is May 10.

COUNTY FAIR BOARD MEETINGS

The Santa Cruz County Fair Board will meet each month in 2024 except September and November. Remaining dates are May 28, June 25, July 23, Aug. 27, Oct. 22, and Dec. 3.

There is no meeting in September or November. Meetings typically begin at 1:30 p.m. on the fourth 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 Friday May 17

CABRILLO COLLEGE STUDENT EXHIBITION

This year, 11 schools are participating with 140+ pieces gracing the gallery, showcasing the creativity of the next generation.

The schools are Aptos High School, Delta Charter High School, Harbor High, Kirby High, Pacific Collegiate School, Santa Cruz High School, Scotts Valley Arts Center, Scotts Valley High School, Soquel High School, St. Francis High School, and Watsonville High.

See ceramics, lino prints, oil and acrylics, watercolor, and more.

Mondays

BRIDGE CLUB

10:30 a.m.-Noon, 7695 Soquel Dr, Aptos, CA 95003

The Aptos Branch Library will host Bridge Club sessions on Mondays (except holidays).

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.

First Wednesdays

SONS IN RETIREMENT

Time TBD, Elks Lodge, 150 Jewell St., Santa Cruz SIR (Sons In Retirement) is a nonprofit, nonpolitical public benefit organization of senior men. The organization’s mission is to enhance the lives of its members through social events while making friends.

The Twin Valleys, Santa Cruz Branch welcomes new members and meets the first Wednesday of each month. Contact Ray Disperati at 831-588-8876 for information.

Last Wednesday of the Month

PV HEALTH CARE DISTRICT BOARD MEETINGS

6 p.m., Watsonville Community Hospital Community Room, 85 Nielson St.

Pajaro Valley Health Care District Board, which oversees Watsonville Community Hospital, is holding monthly meetings on the last Wednesday of each month through 2024, except Nov. 20 and Dec. 18 due to the holidays.

Isabel Olmes-Leiva, Boots n’ birdies, enamel on copper. Student Exhibition 2023

Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | Wed-Thr 6-8 p.m., Cabrillo College Library 1002, 6500 Soquel Dr. Aptos Student Exhibition 2024 is a wide-ranging survey of artwork produced by students in the Cabrillo College Art Studio and Art Photography Departments during the spring semester. The show, from April 22 to May 17, showcases student talent and creative imagination. This exhibition includes painting, drawing, printmaking, ceramics, sculpture, small-scale metals/jewelry, digital fabrication, graphic design, mixed media, woodworking, video, and traditional, alternative process and digital photography. Student work will be for sale at the reception.

Ongoing thru May 18

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ART SHOW

Open Wednesday-Saturday, 1-4 p.m., Santa Cruz Art League at 526 Broadway, Santa Cruz Santa Cruz Art League hosts the 66th Annual High School Show.

Nina Simon of Santa Cruz, author of The New York Times best-seller “Mother-Daughter Murder Night,” will kick off the Santa Cruz Public Libraries Virtual Author Talks series with a watch party at Capitola Branch Library.

The free monthly series comes via the Library Speakers Consortium and support from support of the Friends of the Capitola Branch Library.

Patrons will be able to access not only the live-streamed events but also past presentations. The virtual talks format is a live, one-hour interview with a best-selling author led by a professional moderator; it includes a Q&A section that mixes questions prepared by the moderator, as well as questions that attendees can submit before or during the event.

Authors presented by the Library Speakers Consortium include Douglas Brunt, author of “Genius, Power, and Deception on the Eve of World War I,” Rebecca Kuang, author of “Yellowface,” and Frieda McFadden, author of “The Housemaid is Watching.”

To register for this event and to view and register for upcoming virtual talks, visit the SCPL and LSC Virtual Author Talks website at: https://libraryc.org/santacruzpl

www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Thursdays in May

JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL

7 p.m., Capitola Library, 2005 Wharf Road Capitola Library will screen three more films from the Jewish Film Festival.

May 9: Birth of a Conflict, episode 2, how the JewishArab conflict turned from a territorial dispute to a religious conflict, and the little-known Great Arab Revolt May 16: Birth of a Conflict, episode 3, failure of the Arab national movement, success of the Zionist movement in creating a Jewish state, and crumbling of the British Empire. May 23: Children of Peace (documentary): Dreamers founded a community of Arabs and Jews, Neve Shalom in 1970s Israel, and children who grew up there, now adults, must deal with the reality of war.

Third Thursdays

SIP AND STROLL

6-9 p.m. (check-in starts at 5 p.m.), Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos

Come to the Seacliff Inn: Tapestry Collection by Hilton, for a Sip & Stroll event where local artists to show and sell their works. Wines are 30% off, and the featured winery will offer tastings of three varietals for $10 per person. Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wine30-sip-strolltickets-668910307737

Last Thursdays of the Month

CARS ON THE COURSE

6:30 – 9:30 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Drive, Aptos Love cars? Seascape Golf Club will host “Cars on the Course” through October.

All cars are welcome (but not sideshows).

Fridays (except First Friday of the Month)

LA SELVA BEACH LIBRARY BRIDGE GROUP 10:30-Noon, La Selva Beach Public Library, 316 Estrella Ave. Come for bridge from 10:30 to noon at the La Selva Beach library.   Call La Selva Library to reserve your seat: 831-427-7710.

Photo Credit: Crystal Birns

Sundays THE FARM & GARDEN MARKET

11 a.m., 3 p.m., Corralitos Cultural Center, 127 Hames Road

The Farm & Garden Market is a small, friendly, open air market made up of local farmers and gardeners who grow within a five-mile radius of Corralitos at the Corralitos Cultural Center.

Seasonally there are strawberries, blueberries, cherries, lemons, tomatoes, herbs, squash, potatoes, carrots, peas, beets, and avocados, as well fruits, vegetables, lettuces and salad greens. Bakers offer treats, and there may be beautiful potted flowers, handmade natural soaps, and homemade jams and preserves.

The market is open to those who grow anything from a garden to a good back yard fruit tree.

For a booth, a $5 donation is requested to the CVREA, the nonprofit that maintains the Corralitos Cultural Center. For inquiries, contact Wayne Miller: wayne@catalyst2001.com / (831) 724-1332

Third Sundays of the Month

ANTIQUE FAIR & FLEA MARKET

9 a.m.-2 p.m., Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel Drive Clark’s Auction presents a monthly Antique Fair & Flea Market on the third Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos, starting March 17. Admission tickets are $8 at https://www.eventeny.com/ events/ticket/?id=9559&action=ticket&action_ticket=14707

Earlybird tickets are $15 to get in at 7 a.m.

DATED EVENTS

Saturday May 4

SUMMIT FOR THE PLANET

9 a.m.–1 p.m., Mount Madonna School, 491 Summit Road, Watsonville

Mount Madonna School hosts the 18th annual Summit for the Planet at the upper campus. Admission is free. This festival open to the public begins with a 5K family hike at 10 am winding through trails lined with majestic redwoods and eucalyptus trees. Catch a glimpse of Monterey Bay at the finish line where you will be greeted with delicious vegetarian fare and live music.

The eco-carnival opens at 11 am with games, live animals, a model solar-powered vehicle race, followed by music and a recycled “trash” fashion show and learning expo.

Attendees are invited to come dressed as their favorite character from Star Wars, but no light sabers or weapons of any kind are allowed. Information: SummitforthePlanet.org.

DR. MARGO KUSHEL TO SPEAK ON HOUSING

4-6 p.m., Hotel Paradox 611 Ocean St, Santa Cruz Housing Santa Cruz County announce May as Affordable Housing Month, with a kickoff event at Hotel Paradox featuring Dr. Margot Kushel, MD, an expert in homelessness research and solutions.

As a professor of medicine at UC San Francisco and Director of the UCSF Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative, Dr. Kushel will discuss the critical role of advancing affordable housing solutions toward ending homelessness and improving health outcomes. Tickets ae $30 per person at bit.ly/ahm-kickoff-2024 and include light refreshments. Attendees may support HSCC’s mission to promote affordable, safe, stable homes for local residents and workers at https://secure. everyaction.com/crVapmdnu0a9hiuEB-kjXA2

This year’s theme is “Be Part of the Solution.” For more events in May, see: https://www.housingsantacruzcounty.com/affordable-housing-month.

WORLD LABYRINTH DAY

1-3 p.m., Calvary Episcopal Church, 532 Center St, Santa Cruz World Labyrinth Day is an international event held on the first Saturday each May, sponsored by The Labyrinth Society in collaboration with partner organizations including the Australian Labyrinth Network, Legacy Labyrinth Project, and Veriditas. Visit worldlabyrinthday.org.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

40TH ANNUAL MOTHER’S DAY RUN & WALK

Sunday May 12

7:45 a.m. | 8 a.m. | 8:45 a.m., Pinto Lake County Park, 757 Green Valley Road, Watsonville

The 40th Annual Mother’s Day Run & Walk will be the morning of Sunday, May 12, at Pinto Lake County Park.

The kids 1K fun run will be at 7:45 a.m., the 5k run/walk at 8 a.m. and the 10K run at 8:45 a.m.

Last year’s runners included Bruce & Tami Corum of Capitola, Emily Thayer, 17, of Soquel, and Clay McDaniel, Cyleste McKeon, Margaret Brewington, Marilyn Mercer, Joseph Henderson, and Roberto Letamendi, all of Aptos, Johnny Cornejo of Watsonville, and Jade Giotta and Steven Occipinti, of Felton.

Proceeds benefit Pajaro Valley Shelter Services. Race fee is $40 for 5k and 10k and $25 for 1k.

Enter by May 8 at www.pvshelter.org

The event takes place at Calvary Episcopal Church at Cedar and Lincoln Street. Information: labyrinth@calvarysantacruz.org

Saturday May 4

Sunday May 5

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN MUSHROOM FESTIVAL

10 a.m.-7 p.m., Roaring Camp, 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton Roaring Camp in Felton hosts the Santa Cruz Mountain Mushroom Festival.

There will be cooking and cultivation demos, functional mushroom talks, and DIY workshops, plus networking, live music, book signings and art.

Presenters include: Dr Christopher Hobbs, mycologist Alan Rockefeller, mushroom enthusiast Dr. Gordon Walker, Guilietta Octavio, doctor of herbal medicine, mushroom growers Taylor Bright, Erik Lomen, and Amanda Janney, researcher Sarah-Kate Boylan of Lily’s Lighthouse, herbalist Indy Srinath, author-herbalist Jess Starwood, mushroom teacher Wilder Herbertson and Jasper DeGenaars of Fungi Academy, and William Padilla Brown of MycoSymbiotics. Hands-on Workshops: Fabric dyeing • painting with mushroom pigment • fermenting with fungi • log cultivation demo • straw pasteurization • tissue cultures • microscopy tent • spore prints.

Kid zone: Face painting • henna • mushroom cornhole • archery range • rock painting • bubbles • Giant Bamboo hoops • bounce house

Tickets are $75 for one day or $140 for both days. Buy tickets at scmmfest.com

Thursday May 9

STEPHEN GRAY AT APTOS CHAMBER

11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Drive, Aptos Stephen Gray, CEO of locally owned Watsonville Community Hospital, will speak to the Aptos Chamber of Commerce at Seascape Golf Club.

RSVP at 831-688-1467.

Friday May 10

CABRILLO YOUTH STRINGS RECITAL

7 p.m., Cabrillo College, VAPA 5156, 6500 Soquel Dr, Aptos The Cabrillo Youth Strings Chamber Music Program for kids ages 8 to 18 will present a recital at the VAPA 5156 building.

Saturday May 11

BLUE PLAQUE CEREMONY

1-2:30 p.m., MAH, 705 Front St., Santa Cruz

The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History will host the Historic Landmark Blue Plaque Award Ceremony the MAH. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Blue Plaque program in Santa Cruz.

This year’s event will also honor 2020-2023 awards which occurred without a ceremony due to the pandemic. These plaques were awarded to several houses and a number of pioneer surf shops.

The 2024 plaques will be awarded to residential buildings, an affordable apartment project, and a fire station.

Honoring the structures and the people who make them special, this free event is for anyone who loves Santa Cruz history.

Blue Plaques are awarded to structures in Santa Cruz County that are at least 50 years old and have historic significance.

Hear from local historians and community members as they dive into interesting research and personal stories related to the Blue Plaque recipients.

More than 300 plaques have been awarded since 1973.

OPEN MIC BENEFIT FOR VETERANS VILLAGE

3-4:30 p.m., St. Andrew Church, 9850 Monroe Ave., Aptos St. Andrew Church in Aptos will host an open mic benefit for Veterans Village on its patio.

All are welcome, no ticket required; donations will be accepted.

To participate as a performer (musical, dramatic, improvisational, etc.) or for information, contact info@ nextstagesantacruz.org or call 408-357-0640 (messages).

Sponsored by Next Stage Productions and St. Andrew Presbyterian Church.

Monday May 13

GETTING STARTED WITH CITRUS

5-6:30 p.m., Online Seminar

UC Master Gardeners of Monterey & Santa Cruz counties present a free online workshop on growing citrus trees 5-6:30 p.m. Monday, May 13.

Citrus trees can be grown in a container or in the ground and a healthy citrus tree will provide years of abundant fruit. Learn which varieties do best in the Monterey Bay area, how to choose a good plant and how to plant it properly whether in a container or in the ground. If you already have citrus in your garden, you’ll learn how to care for and fertilize your citrus as well as protect it from the most common pests.

To register, visit mbmg.ucanr.edu. Donations are welcomed.

Tuesday May 14

TALK ABOUT HOUSING

6:30 p.m., Bruno’s Bar and Grill, 230 Mount Hermon Road, Kings Village Shopping Center, Scotts Valley

In recognition of Affordable Housing Month, Julie Conway, former Santa Cruz County Planning Department housing manager and current chair of Santa Cruz City’s Planning Commission, will be the guest speaker for the Democratic Club of North Santa Cruz County’s May meeting. She will discuss efforts to address the ongoing housing crisis and answer frequently asked questions about what affordable really means, income levels for affordable housing and how residents can apply for rental and for sale affordable homes. Club meetings are upstairs at Bruno’s Bar and Grill. Meetings start at 6:30 p.m. Arrive at 6 p.m. to write postcards and letters to support Democratic candidates in competitive races. Members of the public are welcome to attend.

Thursday May 16

CREDIT UNION GRAND OPENING

5 p.m., Santa Cruz Community Credit Union, 55 River St., Santa Cruz Santa Cruz Community Credit Union announces the Grand Opening of the new downtown branch.

This building used to house the Santa Cruz County Law Library and still houses private law offices. There will be a celebration and ribbon-cutting with CEO Beth Carr. There’s plenty of parking.

With locations in Santa Cruz, Watsonville and Soquel, the credit union’s goal is to provide affordable financial services — economic empowerment — to all. Services include online banking, mobile banking, digital wallet, loans, credit cards, business checking, cannabis accounts to local licensed operators, plus small business resources. Since opening the first branch in downtown Santa Cruz in 1977, SCCCU has grown into a thriving $190 million financial cooperative with 15,000 members.

Saturday May 18

MARCH TO END HOMELESSNESS

10 a.m., Santa Cruz City Hall, 809 Center St. Housing Matters announces the second annual March to End Homelessness in Santa Cruz County will be at Santa Cruz City Hall.

Attendees will hear from local leaders, advocates and people who have been homeless about the importance of “Housing as a Human Right.” The march will finish with a Resource Fair of services.

Partners include Abode Services, Association of Faith Communities, Homeless Garden Project, Housing Santa Cruz County, Santa Cruz County Public Defenders Office, the Free Guide and Wings Homeless Advocacy.

“Last year, we had a great turnout of around 500 people and this year we’re hoping even more community members come out to show their support,” said Phil Kramer, Chief Executive Officer of Housing Matters. “The March is not just a symbolic show of solidarity for those experiencing homelessness. It is a great opportunity to raise awareness about the actions that the City and County and the whole continuum of care, including Housing Matters and all the other service providers, are taking to support our unhoused neighbors.” For information, visit: housingmatterssc.org/event/march2024

Friday May 24

CABRILLO COLLEGE GRADUATION

4 p.m., Cabrillo College, 6500 Cabrillo College Drive, Aptos Cabrillo College will host its graduation ceremony at Carl Conelly Stadium.

More details will be released soon. n

Pajaro River Levee Construction Status

By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District

The first phase of work on the Pajaro River Levee Flood Risk Management Project is expected to begin this year. This phase will provide protection along Corralitos Creek with subsequent phases providing new protections along the main stem of the Pajaro River. What is the proposed project and the current status of construction?

What is the levee history?

The existing levees that protect the communities were built in 1949 and have not since been significantly improved. Soon after construction, Watsonville and Pajaro sustained serious flood damage in 1955 and in 1966 it was determined by the federal government that it was necessary to rebuild the levees.

In essence, the federal government acknowledged that the levees that they built in the late 1940s were undersized and inadequate to meet the need for flood protection. Today, these levees provide only an average of 8-year level of flood protection, believed to provide the lowest of any federal flood control system in California and one of the lowest in the United States.

to some of the other surrounding agricultural areas in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties). Per capita income in these communities is less than half the state and national averages. This project will provide significant life and economic safety improvements to both counties and even eliminate flood insurance costs for those within the FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area.

The project will start on Reach 6 - which is along Corralitos Creek (where significant flooding has occurred). A map for the project can be found at this link: https://www. prfma.org/risk-management by clicking on “Project Fact Sheet.”

What is the current status of the levee project?

What is the proposed project?

The federal flood management project, sponsored by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, will provide a 100-year flood protection to Watsonville and Pajaro and and a mix of 100-year and 25-year flood protection

Last year, the Army Corps awarded a contract to an engineering firm to develop the designs and specifications for flood control facilities to be built along the Corralitos and Salsipuedes Creek corridor. Final plans and specifications for Corralitos Creek are expected next month -- once reviewed by the Army Corps a bid package will be advertised for the construction phase on the Corralitos Creek portion. There are a few factors that would impact the construction schedule, but construction on the Corralitos Creek phase in either late summer or fall. Remaining levee designs along the Salsipuedes will continue and additional design and specifications engineering contracts for the remaining reaches will be awarded in February of next year.

In addition to the underlying engineering work and design, there are land and property acquisitions necessary to begin construction. The goal is to have all rights necessary for this portion of the project in the next month or two. Utility relocations, property relocations and land acquisitions (and valuations) are all part of this process.

Additional coordination work with CalTrans and a transportation engineering consultant is underway to plan, design and implement the necessary raising of the Highway 152 and 129 bridges over Corralitos and Salsipuedes Creeks.

What is the status of levee repairs from the storms last year?

The three levee breach sites on the Monterey County side of the river have been completed.

Site 1, the original breach location upstream of the town of Pajaro, was completed in October of 2023. Site 2, located beneath Highway 1 was completed in March

of this year and the last site, Site 3 (downstream of the highway and near the bay) was completed in February.

How can you learn more about the project?

If you are interested in learning more about the project in general, you can check out the PRFMA website at https://www. prfma.org — or you can always contact me below. n

•••

As always, I appreciate any feedback you may have on this (or any other County issue). I’m maintaining regular updates on social media at www.facebook.com/supervisorfriend and you can always call me at 454-2200.

Pajaro River Levee 2017

SCCAS Featured Pet

Sam I Am

Our Pet of the Week is Sam AKA Sam I Am (A311157)! He is an 8 year old grey and white neutered male Pit Bull.

This senior sweetheart came to the Shelter from a partnering organization after he was surrendered due to his family moving. He was in his previous home for his entire life. He lived with a family including children, French bulldogs and dogsavvy cats. Sam was described as house trained in his previous home.

Sam is a mellow guy who enjoys hanging out and having a couple short sniffaris a couple times a day. In his previous home, he was free roaming when left alone and also would go in and out of the doggy door. Sam enjoyed going for walks in his previous home. He also knows “sit” and “down”. Although he is an older dog, he is an example that old dogs can in fact learn new tricks.

An adopter that will commit to positive reinforcement training to continue bonding with Sam will be great. Sam has been hanging out at client services at the Shelter and has been fairly easy going. He is such a love a kind member of the public has sponsored his adoption fee! Sam is the bestest boy and looking for a low key home to hang out with and a loving family to be his best buds!

If you are looking for a work from home companion to be your steady sidekick –come meet Sam today!

Right now we are having a “Big Dogs Rule!” adoption special since we have so many large, loveable and fun pups! All dogs 40lbs and up are half off of their adoption fees! When you adopt a dog at SCCAS you get neuter/spay, microchip, age appropriate vaccinations, flea treatment all included with your adoption fee! What a great deal when you find your new BEST FRIEND!

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. 580 Airport Blvd., Watsonville, 95076 • Hours: Tues.-Sat. 9:30 a.m. – noon; 1–5 p.m. (Closed Sun/Mon)

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

Teen Girls Told: ‘Dream It, Be It’

Soroptimist International Clubs of Capitola-by-the-Sea and Watsonville, United Way of Santa Cruz County and Girls, Inc. of the Central Coast hosted nearly 30 teen girls at their “Dream It, Be It,” event at the Watsonville Youth Center.

The goal is to give girls the tools they need to achieve their education and career goals, empowering them to break cycles of poverty, violence, and abuse.

The teens, ranging in age from 13-18, listened to a welcome and aspirational message from Watsonville Mayor Vanessa Quiroz-Carter.

They also heard three women talk about careers: A first-year law student, a rookie San Jose police officer and a woman educated in the United States and Switzerland who landed a job teaching English in China.

Then the girls were asked to create dream boards using materials supplied by United Way of Santa Cruz County to help them visualize their future goals.

“I encourage you to brush those negative thoughts you have about yourselves off your shoulders,” United Way CEO Keisha Browder, event emcee, told the girls. “Sometimes those negative thoughts are what holds us back from doing what we want to do and be who we want to be.”

The teens enjoyed lunch and received

gift bags with toiletries, cosmetics and hair accessories.

Soroptimist International of Capitola and Watsonville are part of a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training to achieve economic empowerment; United Way ignites the community to give, advocate and volunteer so that youths succeed in school and life, residents are healthy, and families are financially independent; Girls, Inc. of the Central Coast’s mission is to inspire all girls to be strong, smart and bold and to respect themselves and the world around them. n For information, contact Soroptimists of Capitola at sicapitola.by.the.sea@gmail.com; Soroptimist of Watsonville at siwatsonville@ soroptimist.net; United Way of Santa Cruz County at (831) 479-5466 and Girls, Inc. of the Central Coast at info@girlsinccc.org.

© Statepoint Media

“Homeless Funding” from page 20

In the city of the Santa Cruz, the 2023 number was 1,028, down from 1,439. The data from the January 2024 count is not yet available.

Last year, about 30% were in a temporary shelter and 70% were “unsheltered.”

The grant administered by the California Interagency Council on Homelessness “signifies a significant investment in Santa Cruz’s ongoing efforts to reduce unsheltered homelessness,” according to city officials.

In Santa Cruz, the grant will support:

• Adding 20 interim housing units on the Housing Matters campus, 115 Coral St., Santa Cruz.

• Provide outreach, coordination of services such as mental health, and housing navigation to support 55 people living in encampments in the Harvey West/Coral Street area, helping them transition into secure and stable housing.

“These funds will empower the City to implement targeted initiatives tailored to the unique needs of the community, fostering pathways to sustainable housing solutions,” said Mayor Fred Keeley.

“As Santa Cruz continues its work to address homelessness, the $4 million in state funding represents a significant step forward

in achieving tangible outcomes for individuals experiencing homelessness within the City,” said Larry Imwalle, homelessness response manager.

In 2022, Santa Cruz launched a three-year Homelessness Response Action Plan, focusing on comprehensive solutions. Key initiatives, including Safe Sleeping Programs, a Safe Parking Program, and proactive Encampment Response, have yielded significant impact.

More than 960 new affordable housing units have been established, with 121 individuals now in long-term stable housing.

Another 776 people have taken advantage of shelter and safe parking, and 109 individuals have been successfully reconnected with family and friends.

Also, 165 safe sleeping spaces in tents are available at 1220 River St. and the National Guard Armory.

The city approved Harvey West Studios, 121 units of supportive housing, a project that was championed by non-profit New Way Homes and will be operated by nonprofit Housing Matters. Construction is to start this year. n

For information about the City of Santa Cruz Homelessness Response Action Plan, visit www.cityofsantacruz.com/homelessness.

From left: Watsonville Mayor Vanessa Quiroz-Carter, Volicitie Dodge, Taneesha Dodge, Jackee Bindzi and United Way CEO Keisha Browder.