Aptos Times September 15th 2012 by Times Publishing Group, Inc.

September 15 2012

C O M M U N I T Y N E W S T H AT M A K E S A D I F F E R E N C E

Vol 21 No. 18

Serving Aptos, La Selva Beach, Corralitos, Freedom, Watsonville, & Pajaro

Service Dog Rescued From Seacliff Ravine

Aptos/La Selva Fire take Marley Home

By Noel Smith arley is a special dog. He helps the helpless and the hopeless forget their bad days and their trying circumstances. Marley is a Service and Therapy dog that visits young and old alike. He gives them the opportunity to feel the warmth and acceptance of a small dog. A small Chihuahua, Marley visits foster homes and senior facilities providing his encouragement to those who need the feeling that someone or something cares. Well, Marley ended up needing help himself when he wandered into a brushy ravine in Seacliff and couldn’t get back out. When not helping others by his obedience and quiet demeanor, at home he is the picture of independence. His owner, Jeanell Wilkins said, “He likes to be outside and when he didn’t come back and it was after dark, I went looking for him. We live on the edge of this deep, brushy ravine and I thought that was probably where he was.” Jeanell could hear him barking but he couldn’t climb back out. Finally, because it was after midnight and Marley was obviously stuck, she called 911.

Aptos Schools, along with all other PVUSD schools, are waiting for a makeover.

MEASURE L: CREATING DEBT

FOR THE

FUTURE

Total repayment for the 35-year bond issue to be about $350 million

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Master Gardeners’ Tour Local Participants

National Plug-In Day Electric and Hybrid Cars

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s $150 million in bonds and $350 million in future debt for property owners in the Pajaro Valley Unified School District the only way to finance needed school maintenance and improvements? It will take 55 percent of those voting on

The shopping list origMeasure L to say inally added up to “Yes” before it is $250 million but has passed. been trimmed to $150 After years of million for the bond deferring maintenance issue on the November in the PVUSD, every 6 2012 election ballot. school and facility in Measure L will the District is on the list of items to be fixed, add $38 per $100,000 (est.) to disimproved, added to or repaired. trict property taxes for the next

PAGE

By Noel Smith

35 years. This will be in addition to the other current educational property taxes, which includes PVUSD Measure J ($32.409 per $100,000) and Cabrillo College Measure D taxes ($38.955 per $100,000) for a possible total of $109.35 per $100,000 of assessed evaluation per year.

Painting Our Parks Santa Cruz County Bank

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CommunityBriefs

Advocacy, Inc hosts ‘Above and Beyond’ Recognition & Fundraising Event dvocacy, Inc., operating the LongTerm Care Ombudsman Program and the Patient Rights Advocate Program, is pleased to honor Leslie Tremaine, retired Director of Santa Cruz County Mental Health as their 2012 Above and Beyond Award recipient on Sunday, September 23 at Peachwood’s at Pasatiempo. The celebration will offer food, wine, music and raffle and auction items. considering In award nominees, Advocacy, Inc’s Board of Directors and staff reflect on the agency’s core values; whether the individuals exhibLeslie Tremaine it exemplary ethics; actively listen to peoples’ needs; improve the quality of life and care in our community; improve the quality of life for those we serve; and work above and beyond the expected, producing extraordinary results. Ms. Tremaine’s tenure as Mental Health Director and her on-going volunteer efforts as a community advocate for accessible care with dignity and respect for all Santa Cruz community members make

her a deserving recipient of the 2012 Above and Beyond award. For information about the agency’s annual recognition and fundraising event and to make reservations, contact Margaret de Faymoreau at 831-429-1913. Advocacy Inc. 5274 Scotts Valley Dr., Ste. 203, Scotts Valley, CA 95066, 831-429-1913 Santa Cruz, 831-636-1638 Protect, through advocacy, education and intervention, the rights of facility-placed seniors and disabled persons, and individuals with mental health needs. ••• Aptos/La Selva Fire Protection District Presents … OPEN HOUSE 2012! Sunday, October 7 • 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Aptos Station #1 – 6934 Soquel Drive ome visit our fire station and meet your local firefighters and other emergency personnel at our annual Open House! Participating Agencies: • American Medical Response • California State Park

Lifeguards • Netcom – 911 Dispatchers • American Red Cross • Salvation Army • Law Enforcement Officers • CERT (Community Emergency Response Teams) Come see informative displays and presentations, and enjoy activities for the whole family. Learn about life-saving techniques like how to avoid becoming a victim of crime, and how you and your neighborhood can be ready when the next disaster strikes. A bounce house and fun Junior Firefighter activities will be on site for your young ones to enjoy. Fire trucks will be on display, as well as scheduled live demonstrations of firefighters in action. For further information on Open House, contact our administration office at 831-685-6690, or visit us on the web at www.aptosfire.com. Hope to see you there!

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••• Bowlers Needed! WomenCARE’s 16th Annual STRIKE OUT AGAINST CANCER. ome and support WomenCARE, a local organization providing support to women living with cancer and their family and friends, since 1992. All levels and ages are invited to WomenCARE’s 16th annual STRIKE OUT AGAINST CANCER bowling benefit to be held Saturday October 27 at Santa Cruz Boardwalk Bowl. There are three sessions between 12:30 to 5:00pm. Each team member collects pledges and bowls one game. There are raffle prizes, trophies and refreshments for everyone! Costumes are encouraged! Come play in this fun non-competitive event to raise awareness about our organization while also raising funds! No bowling experience needed, just a desire to have fun and support this important organization! For more information or to register yourself or your five-member team call WomenCARE’s bowling hotline at 831-4254425 or register online at www.StrikeOutAgainstCancer.org

•••

Top Hats for Tails A Fundraising Gala Benefiting Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter n September 22, from 5 to 9 pm, Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter will host its first-ever premier fundraising gala, Top Hats for Tails. The event will feature gourmet food, great entertainment, and an auction with all proceeds going directly to support the shelter’s mission. Hosted on the grounds of a fabulous private estate near Los Gatos, the venue features parklike ambience, complete with friendly strutting peacocks, and stunning views of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Attendees are welcome to bring a leashed, well-mannered dog to this gorgeous, pet-friendly venue! There is a full evening of fun planned for all of the animal lovers in attendance: • Emcee Lori Roberts from KPIG Radio • Live Music • Gourmet Buffet Dinner & Dessert • Cash Bar • Video Presentation • Silent Auction • Pet Photography • Animal Art by Jen Raynes The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is excited about bringing our phenomenal community of animal lovers together for an event that will impact Santa Cruz County’s most needy animals in meaningful and lasting ways. ••• Porter Memorial Library Community Fall Reading Series 3050 Porter Street, Soquel one block north of Ugly Mug pen mike for Poets and Prose Writers 2-4 p.m. on the fourth Saturdays of September, October and November 2012 Free! — Sign-up to read at 2 p.m. Fall 2012 Dates and featured readers: Sept. 22 – Maggie Paul Oct. 27 – David Swanger, Poet Laureate of Santa Cruz Nov. 24 – Hunter Reeve Parking: Park behind the library in the Bagelry parking lot. Info: jww95010@aol.com or call Jean Wolff (831) 475-4221. n

Table of Contents

Cover

Measure L: Creating Debt for the Future – Total repayment for the 35year bond issue to be about $350 million By Noel Smith Service Dog Rescued From Seacliff Ravine By Noel Smith

VOL. 21 NO. 18

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

APTOS TIMES

10 11 12 14 15 18 19 21 22 25

Community News

Advocacy, Inc hosts ‘Above and Beyond’ Recognition & Fundraising Event • Netcom – 911 Dispatchers • Aptos/La Selva Fire Protection District Presents… OPEN HOUSE 2012! • Bowlers Needed! – WomenCARE’s 16th Annual STRIKE OUT AGAINST CANCER. • Top Hats for Tails • Porter Memorial Library Community Fall Reading Series Celebrate the Red – You’re Invited Local Gardens on Master Gardeners’ Tour The Little Chorus That Could – Gold Standard Barbershop Chorus Championing Arts Education in Public Schools ‘Gatsby under the Oaks’ Gala Fundraiser – Presented by the Pajaro Valley Historical Association Volunteer Center’s 4th Annual Trivia Challenge Santa Cruz Takes Part in National Plug In Day – Electrical Vehicle Owners, Test Drives, Awards Featured scwd2 Desalination Program – Monthly Project Update How Aging Affects Driving Painting Our Parks – Santa Cruz County Bank arts collaborative • Are you ready for the next disaster? September is National Preparedness Month Sea Cliff Mural Project SPCA Mall Adoption and Gift Center to Relocate Near Target • Be Wary of Loan Modification Scams California Defunded Higher Education as Prison Costs Soared 21st Century Thievery UCSC receives support for Center for Ocean Health California’s Top Game Warden Retires after Cadets Graduate • Sharing the Road with School Buses By David Silvey Federal report details health, economic status of older Americans

CommunityNews

Celebrate the Red – You’re Invited

n Friday, September 28, the American Red Cross will be honoring entrepreneur Jack O’Neill of O’Neill Wetsuits with the American Red Cross Humanitarian of the Year Award. The ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. in the Cocoanut Grove Ballroom, located at the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. The American Red Cross, through its strong network of volunteers, donors and partners, is always there in times of need. We aspire to turn compassion into action so that ... We train. We mobilize. We connect donors and volunteers to those in urgent need of a helping hand. All people affected by disaster across the country and around the world receive care, shelter and hope;

Friday, September 28 6 - 10 p.m.

Cocoanut Grove Ballroom at the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Champagne Reception + Live Music + Silent and Live Auctions – Cost $100

Our communities are ready and prepared for disasters; Everyone in our country has access to safe, lifesaving blood and blood products; All members of our armed services and their families find support and comfort whenever needed; And in an emergency, there are always trained individuals nearby, ready to use their Red Cross skills to save lives. Join us as we Celebrate the Red: 114 years of American Red Cross in Santa Cruz County We depend on the support of donors: individuals, businesses and foundations to support the efforts of the Santa Cruz County volunteers. Last year our volunteers: Responded to 61 local disasters, mostly home fires. Assisted over 113 families with food, clothing, shelter and emotional support. Deployed 200+ volunteers to local and national disasters. Taught 8,407 people skills necessary to prepare their families, neighborhoods and businesses for future disasters. “Red Cross” > 5

Health & Safety 23 Taking time for fitness this fall • To Green your home — Start at the Tap Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28 & 29

Monthly Horoscope • Page 29 - Your September Horoscope Annabel Burton, Astrologer©

Featured Columnists 24 The Book Bag by Robert Francis – Nonfiction for the eclectic bibliophile…

28 EarthTalk® – Agrofuels Not Carbon-Neutral Energy Source 31 Tracking Social Security By Terry McFall – Electronic Social Security

Benefit Payments – The best (And soon the only) way to get your benefits

SPCA Featured Pet • Page 31 – Harry’s Glass is Always Full!

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CommunityNews

Local Gardens on Master Gardeners’ Tour SANTA CRUZ — Creating inspiring

gardens on a budget is the focus of “Gardens of the 99 Percent: Inspiring Gardens Within Your Reach,” a self-guided tour of local landscapes primarily designed, created and maintained by their owners. Gardens of the 99 Percent is the 15th annual tour hosted by the Monterey Bay Master Gardeners, and it takes place Saturday, Sept. 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring seven unique private gardens and two public garden spaces. “Garden Tour” > 5

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CommunityNews

The Little Chorus That Could

ooking back on a $68,400 impact on music in Santa Cruz County, the Gold Standard Barbershop Chorus of Santa Cruz celebrates its 23rd birthday on Sept. 25. That’s 23 years of great-fun weekly rehearsals, delivering Valengrams in February, putting on an annual cabaret show in June, mounting SING FOR YOUR LIFE, a youth outreach show, in November, singing carols in hospitals and retirement homes in December, and sending quartets into the county’s high schools each year to demonstrate barbershop music, one of America’s indigenous music forms. In the autumn of 1989, Carol Hulla, Ken Brosius and Sam Gonzales met to discuss the formation of a new barbershop chorus. They were able to bring in a few members of the defunct Surf City (barbershop) Chorus. The first rehearsal was held in Scotts Valley within weeks after the San Andreas Earthquake. Soon they had enough members to become a chapter of the international Barbershop Harmony Society, officially the Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barbershop Quartet Singing in America (SPEBSQSA). Gold Standard Chorus’s program of visiting schools led to inviting Aptos High School to perform on a chapter show in

Valengram at Times Publishing

2003. That show was the launch of Sing for Your Life, an annual fundraiser for vocal music in the county’s high schools. In the last nine years, the show has distributed $58,000 to music teachers. This coming November, ten high schools are expected to perform in the 10th annual SFYL at the Civic Auditorium. With money raised during raffles at SFYL and the chorus’s annual cabaret

“Red Cross” from pg 3

which provided 3,950 units, the equivalent of 493 gallons of life-saving blood. Please join us for dinner! Buy your ticket today and support our community. n If you would like any additional information please contact, Camilla.Boolootian@redcross.org or call 831-600-4909 to purchase tickets. Master of Ceremonies: Phil Gomes of KSBW 8 and Auctioneer Rod Caborn

“Garden Tour” from pg 4

http://mbmg.org/events/masters-garden-tour/. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased in advance online with PayPal at http://mbmg.org/events/masters-garden-tour/ or are available the day of the tour for $25 at all participating gardens. All proceeds benefit Monterey Bay Master Gardeners, a nonprofit organization.

Trained 4,337 local residents in the live saving skills of CPR, First Aid, water safety and babysitting skills. Initiated over 61 emergency messages between local military members and their families. Held 87 Red Cross Blood Drives,

“We want to appeal everyone who is interested in home gardening,” said Denise Weatherwax, garden tour co-chair. “We hope that visitors will come away with new ideas for their gardens – maybe a different design, growing more edibles, or conserving water.” Mater Gardeners will be available at each site to answer questions and assist visitors. Several locations will host short mini-lectures. Rainwater harvesting, soil fertility, solar power in the garden, and deer-resistant plantings represent just a few topics. n ••• For further information, go to

show, the Ken Brosius Memorial Scholarship has provided $6,500 to 10 graduating seniors for their college studies of music since 2007. When chorus member Caralyn Steinberg passed away in 2009, her family

established a fund to help music teachers with projects not covered in their schools’ budgets. In the last two years, $3,900 has been distributed to seven high schools. Add it up — a $68,400 impact on music in our community by a chorus of 25 singers. Gold Standard was selected Chapter of the Year by the Far Western District (2007). In 2011, the Society ranked Gold Standard number 1 among 50 small chapters nationwide, and number 31 among all 333 chapters, regardless of size, in its Chapter Achievement Survey. Looking forward to its 24th year, chorus director Jordan Johnson said, “We aim to be the most supportive, beginner-friendly group around, and expect continued musical growth, as a group and individually” Chorus president Nick Roberto, a student at Cabrillo, and possibly the youngest chapter president in the Society, added, “I hope we can get some new members this year to continue singing those barbershop chords we all know and love!” n ••• Join in the fun: www.scbarbershop.org.

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Times Publishing Group, Inc. 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 The Times Publishing Group Inc., publishers of the Aptos Times, a bi-weekly publication, the Capitola Times and Scotts Valley Times, each printed monthly, Coastal Weddings Magazine, printed twice annually and Hospice Magazine, printed once annually, is owned by Patrice Edwards. Entire contents ©2012. 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 Opinions / Letters: editorial@cyber-times.com Calendar Listings: www.cyber-times.com Graphics Dept: graphics@cyber-times.com Billing Inquiries: cathe@cyber-times.com Classified Sales: assistant@cyber-times.com Production: production@cyber-times.com

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CommunityNews

Championing Arts Education in Public Schools

Cultural Council of Santa Cruz County and California Alliance for Arts Education launch Local Advocacy Network

o ensure that the future of intelligent, creative thought would be intact for generations to come, the Cultural Council of Santa Cruz County is igniting support for arts education in schools through a Local Advocacy Network (LAN). “What if every song you will hear had already been written? Every film, already shot? Every invention, created? And every leader, already born? What would be left for the next generation? The goal of the LAN is to make sure that children learn critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity so that they can live to their full potential.” – Sarah Brothers, Arts Education Coordinator at the Cultural Council. Due to budget cuts, many school districts have moved to eliminate or drastically limit teaching visual and performing arts. For this reason, the California Alliance for Arts Education (CAAE) has begun to build a statewide network of local advocacy coalitions. These local alliances proactively respond to local and statewide arts education issues. At a local level, the Cultural Council will launch the LAN on September 20, which will initially begin as a gathering of parents, teachers, business leaders, arts organizations and elected officials to build support for arts education as an essential component of a quality education. Neil Coonerty, Michael Watkins, and Ann

Morhauser are co-hosting the event, and Mary McLaughlin, Arts Coordinator for the Santa Cruz County Office of Education, will present a report on the status of arts education in the county. Although the Cultural Council effectively brings arts education to 10,000 students each year, there are still many children and youth in our community who do not receive a well-balanced education that includes arts instruction. According to the CAAE, only 11% of public schools in California are meeting state goals for arts instruction. “In Santa Cruz, so many of us recognize the importance of including the

arts in a well-rounded education. By forming this Local Advocacy Network, we add our voice to the rising chorus around the state to make sure that our message is clearly heard by school boards and legislators throughout California.” — Sonia Deetz, Arts Education Manager at the Cultural Council. n ••• If you are interested in becoming involved in this cause, please contact Sarah Brothers, Arts Education Coordinator, at sarah@ccscc.org or (831) 475-9600 x18. Visit the Cultural Council of Santa Cruz County website: www.ccscc.org.

CoverStory “Rescue” from pg 1

The Aptos LaSelva fire department showed up about 1 a.m. In order to get to where Marley was, the firemen had to wade into the ravine from the beach. At about 3 a.m., Marley and his owner were finally reunited. It goes to show that even if you are the one that is willing to help others, there may come a time that help will Marley comforts a client come to you when you need it. Marley is back to helping the elderly and the young with his pleasant personality and the firemen are back to helping save people (and sometimes even dogs) that are hurt or in danger. n

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Marley the Service Dog is happy that Jeanell an the Aptos/LaSelva Fire Department brought him safely out of his trap.

CommunityNews

‘Gatsby under the Oaks’ Gala Fundraiser

Presented by the Pajaro Valley Historical Association WATSONVILLE — On Saturday, October 6, 2012 from 3:00 to 6:30 PM, The Pajaro Valley Historical Association will host its 1st Annual “Gatsby under the Oaks” fundraiser at their beautiful estate in Watsonville located at 332 East Beach Street, adjacent to

Watsonville High School. Entrance to the event is $60.00 per person. Fine wines from various wineries will be presented as well as abundant and elegant hors d’oeuvres and desserts. “Banjos by the Bay,” a local jazz band, will entertain guests with music from the era.

Charleston dance lessons will be given for those who wish to participate. Exhibits of clothing and accessories from our collection, one of the largest in the state, will be on display within our venues. There will be blackjack and roulette tables to enjoy as well as

antique cars showcased. Everyone attending is encouraged to dress in period clothing if they’d like. There will be a live and silent auction held as well as a raffle with prizes of: “Gatsby” > 10

CoverStory DeHart. Gray also is opposed to measure L. She told us, “Much of the money to be Superintendent Dorma Baker and used for deferred maintenance has been Brett McFadden, the District’s Chief frittered away. We need to look for other Financial officer have put together an ways to meet targeted needs such as a parimpressive list of projects to renovate and cel tax which is much more temporary and improve the schools and classrooms has a senior exemption.” PVUSD school board Trustee for area 1 throughout the District. Rhea DeHart is a former PVUSD Kim De Serpa said, “I’m a parent and as board member. She became actively any parent who goes on a campus in our engaged in education as a teacher in district can plainly see, the schools need 1943. She has served as a union steward extensive repairs when we consider all the and officer, a department head and as a health and safety issues. When the board first considered putboard trustee until ting a bond on the 2006. Rhea is against No one is arguing that all ballot, it was $260 the bond and is one of the signers of the of these projects are million to do everything we thought argument against worthwhile or necessary needed doing. In Measure L. She said, but the question many order to get a 7-0 con“I’m absolutely opposed to L. It’s a are asking seems to be sensus from the board, we lowered Christmas tree of “Why this, why now?” that to $150 million district wants, not but it’s obvious that needs. Until recently there has always been money for is not enough. Also, without seed money, deferred maintenance, which the District the District doesn’t qualify for federal or has used for other purposes. The state matching fund for many of the proDistrict’s list should be reduced to just posed projects.” PVUSD Trustee for area 3 Karen health and safety projects and brought before the public before putting it on the Osmundson said, “I voted against the original proposal because it was way too high. ballot.” When asked if a bond is the only way I support the current $150 million bond for the District to raise money for such because there are many things throughout maintenance and improvement projects the district that are badly in need of repair DeHart said, “A five-year parcel tax could because of the age of most of our schools. be levied without all the financial costs for Also, Pajaro High School needs to be finthe taxpayer associated with a bond. ished. I’m really excited about the Solar Some of the projects paid for by a parcel Project which will save the District millions tax would be eligible for matching funds of dollars that can be used to reduce class from the federal or state governments. A sizes.” Jeff Ursino is a current PVUSD board parcel tax would need to have a twothirds majority to pass and it would have trustee for Area 7. When asked about his exemptions for seniors and for the dis- feelings concerning Measure L he said, “I abled. This money could be used for spe- voted on the board to put Measure L on the cific projects and purposes on a priority ballot. I struggle with this. The district has basis and the tax would disappear after real health and safety needs that will be met by the money raised by Measure L and five years.” Sharon Gray also served on the some of it will be used to invest in our PVUSD board at the same time as Rhea future educational needs. However, these “Measure L” from pg 1

are difficult economic times for many of those who live in our district, and “L” will be adding to their financial burden. We live in an area that has suffered job losses, home and business foreclosures, and a significant rise in fuel and food prices. Also, there are several state financial propositions on the November 6 ballot and that

makes it even more problematical that it will pass.” A good education is deemed the most important factor in achieving economic success and security. The question for voters is, will the money raised by Measure L ensure each student a better education, or just a better environment? n

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CommunityNews

Volunteer Center’s 4th Annual Trivia Challenge

n honor of National Literacy Month, the Literacy Program of the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County is hosting the 4th Annual Trivia Challenge happening Friday, September 21, from 6:30 p.m. 10 p.m. at the Civic Auditorium in downtown Santa Cruz. This fun and zany event

will benefit adults who want to improve their lives through literacy education. Trivia buffs and literacy supporters are invited to join for an evening of live jazz, small bites, drinks, raffle prizes and a rousing trivia competition. Teams of three will test their wits

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against fellow competitors and the top three teams will be awarded honors. Dale Julin from KSBW TV will serve as the Master of Ceremonies and attendees are invited to come casual, glamorous, or in costume. “As the demand for our services continues to grow, we have looked for creative ways to generate new funds and the Trivia Contest has become the perfect fit. Our tagline for the event is … because literacy is the answer,” states Volunteer Center Executive Director Karen Delaney. There is a substantial need in the community for such services. The last nationwide survey of literacy determined that 13 percent of the population was functionally illiterate; in Santa Cruz County, this is estimated at 34,102 individuals. “It takes about $500 dollars per year or less than $50 per month to give a student a chance for a better life. Last year, Literacy Program volunteers provided nearly 11,000 hours of instruction to help break the cycle of illiteracy in Santa Cruz County. This means that every $1 donated to our program translates into about $3 of service to the community,” states Delaney. Since its inception in 1967, this free program has taught over 10,000 individuals through one-on-one and group instruction and students consistently rate 20% above state adult education standards. “We currently have about 200 students in the program and over 60 students on our waiting list. Many students come to us because they are unable to discuss their child’s education with the teacher or talk to the doctor about health care concerns. Since 61% of our students have children in their home, this program provides the building blocks needed to change lives for generations to come”, states Literacy Program Director Genie Dee. “Many of our students enroll to get, keep, or advance in a job. Last year, 79 percent of these students reported that they had received, retained or been promoted at work as a result of their increased reading, writing and speaking skills”, states Dee.

As a primary fundraiser for the Literacy Program, the Trivia Challenge has evolved into a key event. “Our proceeds have nearly tripled since the first year. This event really seems to resonate with community members. Many teams are returning for the fourth year in a row,” states Dee. The Literacy Program was recently awarded community grants from the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County and the United Way. “We look forward to combining these funds with the money raised at the Trivia Challenge to increase the number of tutors and students we can sustain in the program. We will additionally use the funds to launch new programming that will deepen our commitment to providing advanced English training and support families in achieving financial stability”, said Dee. Community members are invited to join the fun while making a difference for Literacy Education. Donate to the cause, join as a spectator, or volunteer to support the event. Spectator tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. Additionally there are group discounts on spectator tickets. Tickets can be purchased in advance on the website or in-person at the Volunteer Center at 1740 17th Ave. in Santa Cruz. n ••• For more information call 831-427-5077 or email literacy@scvolunteercenter.org

CommunityNews

Santa Cruz Takes Part in National Plug In Day

Electrical Vehicle Owners, Test Drives, Awards Featured

he Monterey Bay Region joins 60+ the City of Capitola parking lot above city cities around the country on Sunday, hall. A grant from the Calif. Energy September 23, 2012, to highlight the fun, clean-air benefits, and cost-savings of Commission helped fund a charger at Nob electric vehicles as part of the 2nd annual Hill Shopping Center on Bay St. in Capitola near the car wash has been National Plug In Day. Owners and EV retailers of plug-in installed but still needs striping and sigvehicles, Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Volt, nage. Thirty-nine other chargers from the same federal grant are BMW ActiveE, Tesla, being installed throughMitsubishi iMiEV, National Plug In Day out the three-county Honda Fit EV, Toyota Sunday, September 23 region. n RAV4 electric, TH!NK, Noon – 3 p.m. ••• Zero Motorcycles, Staff of Life Natural Food For more event Neighborhood Electric Market parking lot details, visit: Vehicles and EV conver1266 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz w w w. p l u g i n d a y . o r g , sions, will share their (Near intersection of Soquel Ave. http://eaacc.org, experiences with plug and Morrissey Avenue) www.mbeva.org, in vehicles. EV charging www.pluginamerica.org station companies will Local Sponsors: Monterey Bay Unified provide information about how charging Air Pollution Control District, Electric Auto stations work. Test Drives Available. Monterey Bay (Electric Vehicle) Plug Association Central Coast, Sierra Club Santa In Day will be held Sunday, Sept. 23 from Cruz Group, the Monterey Bay Electric Vehicle 12 Noon-3pm at Staff of Life Natural Food Alliance/Ecology Action are organizing the Market parking lot, 1266 Soquel Ave., Monterey Bay-Santa Cruz Plug In Day, Staff of Life, Allterra Solar, and Santa Cruz Sentinel. Santa Cruz. ••• At 1:30 pm a Proclamations and What is a plug-in car? Awards Presentation featuring Michael plug-in car uses domestic electricity McCormick, Governor Brown’s office; for some or all of its energy. An allSanta Cruz Mayor Don Lane and other local elected officials will recognize EV sta- electric vehicle (EV) stores all its energy in tion owners in the Santa Cruz, Monterey, batteries (Nissan Leaf). Plug-in hybrids (PHEV) store some and San Benito counties. The map attached shows the 5 loca- energy in batteries, and have a gas engine tions in the County (8 stations) installed to extend range (Chevrolet Volt,). last year through a federal ARRA grant Conventional hybrids have batteries, but including two in the Aptos/Capitola area: all their energy comes from gasoline One station at the Community Foundation (Toyota Prius). EV cars require no engine oil changes, Santa Cruz County in Aptos • Two units in

no tune-ups and have 10 times fewer moving parts than a gasoline-powered car. There’s no combustion engine, which means no spark plugs, valves, fuel tank, tailpipe, distributor, starter, clutch, muffler, catalytic converter and no hydraulic transmission. However, EVs cost about twice as much to build as current gasoline, diesel, biofuel, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) fueled vehicles Recharging a Nissan Leaf EV from full discharge takes 8 hrs using a 220/240 VAC

recharging station and 20 hours using the onboard 120 VAC standard household outlet. Its range varies between 50 to 100 miles depending on driving conditions.

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CommunityNews

scwd2 Desalination Program: Monthly Project Update

Santa Cruz Water Commission takes on Key Role with EIR for Desal Project and the City’s Integrated Water Plan Components

t its August 27 meeting, Santa Cruz Water Commissioners agreed to carry out the City Council’s recommendation that the Commission hear comments from the community during the public review period of the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) and the final EIR. These would be public hearings and the Commission would then provide their comments/recommendations to the City Council. In addition, the Commission formed an ad-hoc committee to discuss the development of a comprehensive work plan related to the City’s Integrated Water Plan. This Work Plan is scheduled to be presented to the Commission in October 2012. Congressman Sam Farr Meets with Project Team to learn about Proposed Desalination Project alifornia is facing a water shortage crisis and water supply planning is important to local, state, and federal officials. In August, Congressman Sam Farr came to the greater Santa Cruz area and met with representatives from the City of Santa Cruz and Soquel Creek Water District to learn about the local water

Next scwd2 Task Force Meeting will be October 17 he September Task Force meeting has been cancelled. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 17, 2012. Items to be discussed include the schedule for releasing the Draft EIR for public review and comment as well as an update on project costs, including a breakdown of latest cost estimates and assumptions. For more information, visit: www.scwd2desal.org. Future Water Awareness Events in September ome on by the Water Awareness Booth at the Aptos Farmers Market on September 15 (8am-noon) or at the Santa Cruz County Fair Booth from September 11-16 in the Harvest Building to learn about local water supplies, water shortage issues, ways to conserve, and water supply alternatives currently being evaluated or operating in Santa Cruz County (such as recycled water, surface water transfers, and desalination). ••• Evaluation of Desalination Plants within California Prepared by Pacific Institute he Pacific Institute recently released a white paper entitled “Proposed Seawater Desalination Facilities in California” (July 2012) which concluded interest in seawater desalination remains high in California and many agencies throughout the state are continuing to conduct technical and environmental studies (including pilot programs) to determine whether to develop full-scale projects. This white paper includes information on 19 seawater desalination projects proposed for development along the California Coast and includes the City of Santa Cruz/Soquel Creek Water District (scwd2) project. For a link to the white paper, click: www.pacinst.org/reports/desalination_ 2013/full_report.pdf. n

shortage issues and the agencies’ integrated water plans that include conservation, curtailment, and continued evaluation of desalination to ensure delivery of a reliable and sustainable water supply. The Ballot Initiative on Desalination: Measure P everal residents have inquired about what is the difference between the upcoming Measure P initiative, which will be placed on the ballot for Santa Cruz residents this November, and the City’s ordinance which calls for a vote in 2014.

The City Council adopted Ordinance 2012-3 in March which formalized the addition of Chapter 16.10 to the Santa Cruz Municipal Code requiring voter approval to construct a desalination project. The ordinance ensures residents have the right to vote on the project after the environmental review is complete. (At a regularly scheduled election in June or November 2014). Measure P is a citizens’-generated initiative to amend the City’s Charter to require a vote (in either June or November 2014) for approval to construct a desalination project after the environmental review is completed. The City’s Election Page on its website has posted arguments, rebuttals, and the City Attorney’s impartial analysis: www.cityofsantacruz.com/index.aspx?page =207. There you will see arguments for Measure P include guaranteeing a right to vote since it would be amended in the City’s charter instead of the municipal code. Arguments against Measure P include that the City has already formalized a vote to occur in 2014 so Measure P’s two-step process is unnecessary and that a thorough environmental review with alternative evaluations is currently being conducted. “Gatsby” from pg 7

1st prize = Dinner for Eight, prepared by Eileen Sambrailo 2nd prize = $250.00 in cash 3rd prize = a Family History Search

10 / September 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

There are only 100 raffle tickets to be sold at $100.00 each. Entrance and raffle tickets can be purchased by calling the PVHA office at (831) 722-0305, via our website at www.pajarovalleyhistory.org or, at the door. Funds raised at this event will help to

maintain our historic venues and collections as well as helping to develop outreach programs with school and civic groups. n ••• The Pajaro Valley Historical Association was established in 1940 for the primary purposes of promoting interest in the history of the Pajaro Valley, which includes parts of Santa Cruz, San Benito and Monterey counties. We gather and preserve items of historical nature and interpret them for the public as well as maintaining our historic venues that date back to 1870’s.

CommunityNews

How Aging Affects Driving

s people get older, their driving patterns change. Retirement, different schedules and new activities affect when and where they drive. Most older adults drive safely because they have a lot of experience behind the wheel. But when they are involved in crashes, they are often hurt more seriously than younger drivers. Age-related declines in vision, hearing, and other abilities, as well as certain health conditions and medications, can affect driving skills. Changes in Driving Habits hen people retire, they no longer drive to work. With more leisure time, they may start new activities, visit friends and family more often, or take more vacations. Like drivers of any age, they use their vehicles to go shopping, do errands and visit the doctor. Driving is an important part of staying independent. Most people 70 and older have drivers’ licenses. They tend to drive fewer miles than younger drivers. But, they are also keeping their licenses longer and driving more miles than in the past, often

favoring local roads over highways. As the overall population ages, there will be more older drivers — especially women drivers — on the road. A Complex Task riving is a complicated task. It requires people to see and hear clearly; pay close attention to other cars, traffic signs and signals, and pedestrians; and react quickly to events. Drivers must be able to accurately judge distance, speed, and monitor movement on both sides as well in front of them. It’s common for people to have declines in visual acuity, judgment, or physical ability as they get older. As a result, older drivers are more likely than younger ones to have trouble in certain situations, including making left turns, changing lanes, and navigating through intersections.

Common Mistakes ommon mistakes of older drivers include: • Failing to yield the right of way • Failing to stay in lane • Misjudging the time or distance needed to turn in front of traffic • Failing to stop completely at a stop sign • Driving too slowly or speeding Older Drivers and Crashes riving errors can lead to traffic accidents, injuries, and death. The risk of crashes rises with age, especially after age 75. Studies show that older drivers are more, and less, likely to be involved in certain types of crashes than other drivers. Older drivers are less likely to be involved in crashes related to alcohol use, speeding, and driving at night. But they are more likely to get into crashes:

• At intersections (usually in the vehicle that is struck) • In which the front of one vehicle hits the side of another vehicle • Where the older driver is merging and the other vehicle is traveling faster or is in the older driver’s blind spot Crashes Down Among Older Drivers ortunately, the rate of crashes among adults 65 and over has decreased in recent years. Research suggests that this decline is due to a number of factors, including older adults’ better health, safer cars and safer roads. In addition, older drivers’ ability to “police” themselves — like not driving at night — and stricter state laws for renewal of driver’s licenses may help. Most traffic deaths of older drivers occur during the daytime, on weekdays, and involve other vehicles. Older adults are more susceptible to death or serious injury in a crash if they are physically frail, but the good news is that older people are more likely to survive crashes than in the past. n NIH Senior Health

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / September 15th 2012 / 11

CommunityNews

Painting Our Parks

Santa Cruz County Bank arts collaborative presents pieces by Santa Cruz Oil Painters

t a time when California’s State Park System has weathered the possible closure of 70 State Parks in response to state budget cuts, painters are well aware of the importance of the inspiration and retreat that these parks provide. Santa Cruz County Bank’s fall exhibit, Painting our Parks, celebrates County, State and National Parks through the works of 14 local artists, all members of Santa Cruz Oil Painters, who have captured the magic and beauty of our State parks on their canvases. Curated by Joan Blackmer, Painting our Parks features over 100 plein air paintings of County, State and National Parks in

California, from the quiet beauty of the pond at Quail Hollow, the grandeur of the rocky coast at Garrapata, to the majestic cliffs of Yosemite. The exhibit will be on display from September 17 to January 18, 2013. Paintings are on display in all five Santa Cruz County Bank banking offices throughout the County. All 14 participating artists are members of Santa Cruz Oil Painters: Skip Andreae, Lorraine Catania, Marnie Dufau, Suzanne Elliott, Mary Garon, Coraly Hanson, Michele Hausman, Richard Klevins, Karin Leonard, Judy Miller, Linda Mitchell, Karen Scarborough, Jean Thomas and Frances Travers.

A reception will be held on Sept. 27 from 5:30-7pm at Santa Cruz County Bank, 720 Front St., Santa Cruz. Artists will donate 20 percent of art sales to the Friends of Santa Cruz County State Parks. Exhibit Locations: Aptos – 7775 Soquel Drive • Capitola – 819 Bay Avenue • Santa Cruz – 720 Front Street • Scotts Valley – 4604 Scotts Valley Drive • Watsonville – 595 Auto Center Drive Exhibit Viewing Hours: Monday through Thursday 9am – 5pm, Friday 9am – 6pm excluding Holidays. n ••• The Santa Cruz County Bank Arts Collaborative is an outreach effort to promote

ational Preparedness Month is a nationwide effort held in September to encourage everyone to be prepared for emergencies. With

recent natural disasters in mind, citizens are strongly encouraged to prepare themselves for emergencies in their homes, businesses, schools and communities.

Preparation may include creating an emergency supply kit, making a family emergency plan, getting involved in community preparedness or learning more about emergencies that affect your area. The goal is to increase public awareness of the importance of preparing for all types of emergencies including natural and man made disasters. More information can be found at the National Preparedness Month website at www.ready.gov or the Department of Homeland Security website at www.dhs.gov. Information about fire and emergency safety is available from the Central Fire District website: www.centralfpd.com. n ••• Earthquakes nspire others to act by being an example. Pledge to Prepare & tell others about it! One of the most frightening and destructive phenomena of nature is a severe earthquake and its terrible aftereffects. For hundreds of millions of years, the forces of plate tectonics have shaped the earth, as the huge plates that form the earth’s surface slowly move over, under and past each other. Sometimes, the movement is gradual. At other times, the plates are locked together, unable to release accumulated energy. When the accumulated energy grows strong enough, the plates break free. If the earthquake occurs in a populated area, it may cause many deaths, injuries, and extensive property damage. The 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake illustrated the fact that it is impossible to predict when or where an earthquake will

Lorraine Catania – Point Lobos State Park – 14x18

professional artists and art education by providing exhibiting artists with promotional assistance and by mounting public exhibitions in its banking offices throughout the county.

Are you ready for the next disaster? September is National Preparedness Month

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occur, so it is important that you and your family are prepared ahead of time. Before an Earthquake he following are things you can do to protect yourself, your family and your property in the event of an earthquake. To begin preparing, you should: Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan. Fasten shelves securely to walls. Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves. Store breakable items such as bottled foods, glass, and china in low, closed cabinets with latches. Fasten heavy items such as pictures and mirrors securely to walls and away from beds, couches and anywhere people sit. Brace overhead light fixtures and topheavy objects. Repair defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections. These are potential fire risks. Get appropriate professional help. Do not work with gas or electrical lines yourself.

“Disasters” > 21

CommunityNews

Sea Cliff Mural Project

eaders in the Seacliff and Aptos communities have joined together for an extraordinary mission, one that will enhance both Seacliff and Aptos and allow its historical significance to be viewed by locals and visitors for many years to come — the Seacliff Mural Project. At its first meeting this July, this newly formed committee of the Seacliff Improvement Association created the organizational framework necessary for this ambitious project. Project organizers will locate potential sites and develop a concept for each mural. We seek volunteers to work on site selection and preparation, mural themes, event planning and promotion. The mural project coordinators hope to join talented artists, business owners, local schools, and residents together to

create the murals to enhance and beautify our coastal community. A field trip to Watsonville is planned to tour the Historic Label Art Murals in Watsonville: growinwatsonville.com/livingin-watsonville/historic-downtown/murals. We will meet in front of Forget Me Not Clothing and Manuel’s Mexican Food Restaurant, near the triangle at the entrance to Seacliff Beach, September 15 at 9am. Carpools are welcomed and encouraged, as well as a good pair of walking shoes. Walking tour guides will be provided. Please RSVP by September 8 to the Seacliff Improvement Association: info@seacliffimprovement.org n ••• Visit: www.seacliffimprovement.org for more information.

Ken Dawes Photography

14 / September 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

CommunityNews

SPCA Mall Adoption and Gift Center to Relocate Near Target

he Santa Cruz SPCA will be re-opening their Capitola Mall Adoption Center and Gift shop in a new location next to Target inside the Capitola Mall on Friday August 24. The previous store space, located near Sears in the Capitola Mall, has been occupied by the Santa Cruz SPCA since last year’s holiday season and featured animals available for adoption as well as the sale of SPCA merchandise, pet supplies, local art, and other special gift items, with all proceeds benefitting the animals. The new location will provide the same amenities but will now hold a wider variety of pet supplies both new and used to give adopters the chance the leave the store with everything they may need for their new four-legged family member. The new location, the space to the right of Target if you’re headed in from the main mall, will give the SPCA store a boost in foot traffic and visibility. Although it’s

smaller than the previous store space, SPCA staff and volunteers have worked hard to consolidate, organize and beautify in order to give visitors a wonderful animal filled experience. Macerich, the company that owns the Capitola mall, has generously donated the space to the SPCA in order to boost adoptions and raise funds for the non-profit organization. The move highlights a new trend as malls shift to support animal rescues while phasing out pet shops and the puppy mills that supply them. Originally, the SPCA Adoption Center and Gift Shop was thought to be a great seasonal addition to the Capitola Mall but after an extremely successful holiday period, it became apparent that mall-goers wanted to see the SPCA in the mall yearround. To date, about 300 animals have been adopted from the Mall Adoption Center since it’s opening late last year. The SPCA Adoption Center and Gift

Shop will be open Fridays from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and both Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Volunteers are always welcome to help at the Mall Adoption Center as well as the main shelter after completing an orientation. You must be 16 years or older. Please call the shelter with any questions. n ••• The Santa Cruz SPCA is the county’s ONLY completely non-profit animal shelter, running solely on donations and receiving no government funding. The main shelter is located at 2685 Chanticleer Avenue in Santa Cruz and is open Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and both Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit our

website at www.santacruzspca.org or call (831) 465-5000.

Be Wary of Loan Modification Scams

he Santa Cruz District Attorney’s Consumer Affairs unit warns area homeowners that loan modification scams continue to target people who are at risk of foreclosure. Homeowners from both Santa Cruz and Watsonville have reported that salespeople are going door to door in some neighborhoods enticing homeowners to pay them the mortgage payment in order to stall or prevent a Trustee Sale of the home. These tactics do not work. Do not make a loan payment to anyone other than your lender. Television and newspaper ads frequently entice homeowners to make advance payments to companies who promise to obtain loan modifications or do “loan audits.” Advance payments for loan modifications are illegal and most have no positive results. The District Attorney’s office urges homeowners in distress to avoid paying up front money to prevent foreclosure.

Contact the following HUD approved agencies for assistance with loan modifications and foreclosure issues: Surepath: 800-540-2227 H.O.P.E.:888-995-4673 www.995hope.org Helping You Keep Your Home California 888-954-5337 www.keepyourhomecalifornia.com California Rural Legal Assistance 831724-2253 (low income only) Borrowers who believe they suffered financial injury by their lenders or loan servicers may request a review of their mortgage foreclosures under Independent Foreclosure Review. December 31, 2012 is the deadline to submit a request to The Comptroller of the Currency and the Federal Reserve Board. Compensation for borrowers could range from $500 to $125,000 per homeowner for wrongful foreclosures, rejections of loan modifications, lost paperwork, unjustified delays and other errors. Borrows could be eligible for loan modifications and corrections to credit reports. Further details on the program can be found at: 888-952-9105 or http://www.independentforeclosurerevie w.com For additional questions and referrals, call the District Attorney’s Consumer Affairs office at 454-2050. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / September 15th 2012 / 15

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CommunityNews

California Defunded Higher Education as Prison Costs Soared LOS ALTOS — California Common Sense (CACS) released an extensive comparative analysis and accompanying interactive data visualizations of California’s higher education and corrections systems over the last thirty years. CACS compared higher education and corrections because over the past three decades, they are the only major program areas of the California budget that relied mainly on discretionary funding. Focusing on State funding, salaries, expenditures, and population trends, the analysis examines how two of the State’s largest systems have changed over time. In particular, the analysis compares how the two program areas have fared during economic downturns. CACS found that Higher Education and Corrections have experienced more change in their State funding than any other major public service. As Corrections’ share of the State General Fund budget increased steadily, Higher Education’s share declined almost as quickly. Furthermore, during every major eco-

nomic downturn, Higher Education experienced major State funding cuts, and until the current recession, Corrections’ budget was left virtually untouched. “Over the past 30 years, the State has dropped the ball when it comes to funding Higher Education,” said Mike Polyakov, Research Director of CACS. “In light of its diminished support for Higher Education, we cannot ignore the state prison system’s rapid expansion during the same period because the two systems compete for State money from the General Fund.” The following were among the findings of the analysis: Bigger Corrections Slice, Smaller Higher Ed Slice. As the Corrections portion of the General Fund grew steadily from 2.9% to 9.7% over the last three decades, the Higher Education portion shrank from 15.7% to 10.3%. Once receiving five times more funding than Corrections, Higher Education now receives about the same amount of funding as Corrections. Security Personnel Earning More

18 / September 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

than Faculty. In 1980, an average California prison security employee made $25,858 a year while a CSU faculty member earned $29,015 annually. In 2006, the average security personnel salary peaked at $94,518 while the average CSU faculty salary was $70,615. Prison Population Driving up Corrections Costs. While student population growth has tracked California’s population, the number of incarcerated felons in State prisons has increased more than eight times as quickly as California’s population. Stricter Sentencing Laws Driving up Corrections Costs. Our impact assessment revealed that approximately 55% of the increase in prison costs from 1980 to 2012 could be attributed to prison population growth outpacing California’s overall population growth. Stricter sentencing policies such as the Three Strikes Law and Determinant Sentencing contributed to the rapid inmate population growth during the 1980s and 1990s. “Funding” > 19

CommunityNews

21st Century Thievery

How our new electronic technology can be used against us

GPS and Garage Door Openers his is the experience of someone that had their car broken into while they were at a football game. Their car was parked in a parking lot adjacent to the football stadium and was only for football fans. Items stolen from the car included a garage door opener control, some money, and a GPS unit such as Magellan or that had been prominently mounted on the dashboard. When the victims got home, they found that their house had been ransacked and just about everything of worth had been stolen. The thieves had used the GPS to guide them to their home. They then used the garage door opener control to open the garage door to gain entry to the house. The thieves knew the owners were at the football game, they knew what time the game was scheduled to finish and so they knew how much time they had to clean out the house. It would appear that they had even brought a truck to empty the house of its valuable contents. “Funding” from pg 18

Higher Tuition, Fewer Professors. In 1980, there was one faculty member for every 16 students at the University of California. In 2010, there was one faculty member for every 21 students. At California State University, that ratio has gone from 21:1 to 32:1 during the same period, a 33% decline. Since 2007, student tuition fees have more than doubled for UC and CSU students. The full analysis and associated interactive data visualizations can be found on California Common Sense’s website at h t t p : / / c a c s . o rg / c a / a r t i c l e / 4 4 a n d

Something to consider if you have a GPS — don’t put your home address in it. Put a nearby address (like a store or gas station) so you can still find your way home, but no one else would know where you live if your GPS were stolen. Mobile Phones his happened to a lady has now changed her habit of how she lists her names on her mobile phone after her purse was stolen which contained her cell phone, credit card, wallet... etc. About 20 minutes later, she called her husband from a pay phone to tell him what had happened. To her surprise her husband said, “I received your text asking about our PIN number and a little while ago I texted it to you.” They immediately rushed down to their bank. The bank staff told them that all their money in that account had already been withdrawn. The thief had used the stolen cell phone to text “hubby” in her contact list in order to get their PIN number and within 20 minutes all the money from their account had been taken. Moral of the lesson: Do not disclose the relationship between you and the people in your contact list by avoiding using names like Home, Honey, Hubby, Sweetheart, Dad, Mom, etc. And very importantly, when sensitive info is being asked for through texts, confirm who is asking by calling back. Another caution when you’re being texted by friends or family to meet them somewhere, be sure to call back

http://cacs.org/ca/visualization/index, respectively. The NBC Bay Area News piece can be found at http://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local /Prison-Spending-Affecting-HigherEducation-in-California-Report168756096.html. n ••• California Common Sense is a non-partisan non-profit founded by Stanford students and alumni to open government to the public, develop data-driven policy analysis, and educate citizens about how their governments work. California Common Sense, 5050 El Camino Real, Suite 210, Los Altos, CA www.cacs.org

to confirm that the message really came from them. If you can’t confirm, be very

careful about going places to meet family and friends who text you. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / September 15th 2012 / 19

20 / September 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

CommunityNews

UCSC receives support for Center for Ocean Health

Alumni Christine and Robert Holo to help fund center’s new education wing

C Santa Cruz alumni Christine and Robert Holo of New York City have made a major gift in support of the campus where they met as undergraduates, pledging $1 million to help fund a new education wing at the Center for Ocean Health. The couple, who have two teenage children, said their daughter’s interest in marine science and ocean conservation was an important factor in their decision to support the Center for Ocean Health at UCSC’s Long Marine Laboratory. “Our daughter is passionate about marine science and has educated us about issues like the problem of plastics in the oceans. She liked the idea of supporting this project, and we feel Christine and it is going to productively serve and benefit a large number of people over a long period of time,” said Christine Holo, who earned her B.A. in biology at UCSC in 1990. The project will include the expansion of an existing classroom into a lecture room that can accommodate larger classes and “Disasters” from pg 12

Install flexible pipefittings to avoid gas or water leaks. Flexible fittings are more resistant to breakage. Secure your water heater, refrigerator, furnace and gas appliances by strapping them to the wall studs and bolting to the floor. If recommended by your gas company, have an automatic gas shut-off valve installed that is triggered by strong vibrations. Repair any deep cracks in ceilings or foundations. Get expert advice if there are signs of structural defects. Be sure the residence is firmly anchored to its foundation. Store weed killers, pesticides, and flammable products securely in closed cabinets with latches and on bottom shelves. Locate safe spots in each room under a sturdy table or against an inside wall. Reinforce this information by moving to these places during an earthquake drill.

seminars. The new lecture room in the Center for Ocean Health will be named the Holo Family Lecture Room. Robert Holo, who earned his B.A. in history at UCSC in 1987, is a partner in the law firm of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett. “Chris and I both have fond feelings for Santa Cruz, and we feel that much of the success we have today is attributable to the great and affordable education we got as undergraduates at UC Santa Cruz,” he said. The Center for Ocean Health is a premier research facility for coastal conservation, policy, and research. Built entirely with private support, the center opened in 2001 with 23,000 square feet of labs, offices and classRobert Holo rooms, providing much needed facilities for faculty, researchers and students. As the marine science research and teaching programs have grown over the past ten years, so has the need to increase the capacity of the Center for Ocean Health, said Gary Griggs, director of the Institute of Marine Sciences. Hold earthquake drills with your family members: Drop, cover and hold on. Basic Disaster Supplies Kit basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items: Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation Food, at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both Flashlight and extra batteries First aid kit Whistle to signal for help Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities Manual can opener for food Local maps Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger n

“Of all the projects at Long Marine Lab, the Center for Ocean Health expansion is the most critical,” Griggs said. “The world is confronting a growing number of issues relating to ocean health, and we now have more researchers and graduate students working on those issues. The Center for Ocean Health provides space for both teaching and research that will help resolve those problems, and we are grateful to Christine and Robert Holo for stepping forward with this important gift.”

The Center for Ocean Health expansion will provide 16,000 square feet of additional facilities for interdisciplinary research and education focused on marine conservation science and policy. The total cost of the planned expansion is $12 million. “This is a huge gift in terms of giving us leverage for raising the additional funding needed to complete this project,” Griggs said. “Ocean Health” > 30

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / September 15th 2012 / 21

CommunityNews

California’s Top Game Warden Retires after Cadets Graduate

DFG Enforcement Chief and Wildlife Professional of the Year Nancy Foley Steps Down

hirty-six cadets graduated from the California Game Warden Academy during ceremonies August 17 at the Performing Arts Center in Paradise. “I remember what I felt like the day my badge was pinned,” said Nancy Foley, Chief of the Department of Fish and Game’s (DFG) Law Enforcement Division. “I see the same eagerness in the eyes of today’s graduating class of cadets.” Foley presided over the graduation on her last day as California’s top warden. She is retiring after a distinguished 25-year career at DFG. Annually, wardens make contact with more than 295,000 people and Nancy Foley issue more than 15,000 citations. They often work alone and in remote areas that do not allow for immediate backup. In California, the average warden has a patrol district of more than 600 square miles. In addition to law enforcement, wardens often recommend recreational activities and serve as educators to the public by speaking to

schools, service groups and media. The graduating class included 19 sponsored warden cadets who will begin field training immediately. Another 17 self-sponsored cadets paid their way through the academy planning to become game wardens. DFG hopes to hire them. All the cadets spent the last 31 weeks in intensive training at Butte College in Oroville, where the academy is located. In her last official duty before retiring, Chief Nancy Foley presided over the California Game Warden Academy graduation in Paradise. “Chief Foley took California’s game wardens from under the radar to international acclaim,” said DFG Director Charlton H. Bonham. “She will be missed.” The Department of Fish and Game’s (DFG) top law enforcement officer was chosen as the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (WAFWA) Professional of the Year for 2011. The WAFWA Professional of the Year award is presented to an employee of a member agency who has made the greatest contribution to the management, protection or

enhancement of fish and wildlife resources within their respective state/province and/or the western region. “Chief Foley has spent a lifetime committed to the protection of California’s diverse fish, wildlife and habitat resources and we could not be more proud to have her recognized by WAFWA for her leadership in enforcement and conservation,” said Director Bonham. “Nancy is a dedicated professional who leads by example and is directly responsible for California being a national leader in wildlife management and protection of resources.” WAFWA represents 23 states and Canadian provinces, spanning from Alaska to Texas and Saskatchewan to Hawaii. WAFWA is a strong advocate of the rights of states and provinces to manage fish and wildlife within their borders. As head of the Law Enforcement Division since 2006, Foley has worked to make DFG the premier wildlife enforcement agency in the nation. Under Chief Foley’s leadership, wardens have made hundreds of cases against poachers who violate California’s fish and wildlife laws for personal profit or, in some cases, for no known reason at all. In response to the increase in marijuana growing and other drug

crimes on public lands, wardens at Foley’s direction have vigorously pursued associated environmental crimes such as poaching, pollution and habitat destruction, and then followed through to clean up the sites. She integrated state wardens with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to help protect vital west coast assets by training and coordinating with federal partners. DFG’s large patrol vessels also assist with security of harbors, ports and other infrastructure. She was instrumental in relocating the Warden Academy to Butte College in Butte County in 2008. Foley upgraded equipment to allow wardens to do their jobs with the latest in safety, firearms and communication devices. In addition, Foley spearheaded the creation of the K-9 program and helped put the work of California’s game wardens in the spotlight on the National Geographic Channel’s Wild Justice series. Prior to becoming chief of DFG’s Law Enforcement Division, Foley finished first in her academy class and spent 10 years as a patrol warden, lieutenant and captain. Other positions included working in DFG law enforcement in the Special Operations Unit and the Office of Oil Spill Prevention and Response (OSPR). n

Sharing the Road with School Buses

By David Silvey

22 / September 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

ccording to the American School Bus Council, school buses are designed to be safer than passenger vehicles in avoiding crashes and preventing injury. Today, as compared to years ago, school buses are built with safety in mind. In fact, a study by the U.S. Department of Transportation states that children are safer riding the bus to and from school than being driven in a car by an adult. When you are sharing the road with school buses, follow these tips. • Yellow and Red Flashing Lights — School buses have yellow lights to warn drivers they will be making a stop and red flashing lights and an extendable stop sign to tell drivers to stop. Yellow does not mean go faster, it means slow down. Be aware of your surroundings and always come to a complete stop. Do not continue driving until the lights have turned off and the sign is pulled in. • Passing a School Bus — It is illegal to pass a school bus on the right side of the road because you cannot be aware

of where the bus needs to stop to load or unload. Always wait for the bus to move to the right lane or stay a safe distance behind it. Additionally, it is illegal in all 50 states to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children. It is vital that you stop your vehicle at least 10 feet away from the school bus to allow passengers to enter and exit safely. • Railroad Crossings — In most states it is required that school buses stop at all railway crossings. Be alert when a crossing is ahead and a school bus nearby so that you can stop as well. “School Busses” > 30

HealthandSSafety

Taking time for fitness this fall

ith the lazy days of summer behind us, many people look to the fall season as the perfect time to get in shape and back into the right wellness regime. Few people know the benefits of capitalizing on the autumn season as a fresh start better than Beverly Hills-based personal trainer Gunnar Peterson. For more than 20 years, Peterson has helped clients ranging from celebrities, professional athletes and everyday people to push boundaries to improve their health. “There is no better time than now to get started,” explains Peterson. “All it takes is a simple commitment to better living.” Check out these simple steps for getting the most out of your workout: Fuel up: Nutrition is an important part of any workout. In order to have ample energy, consume a small meal, such as two daily servings of fruits or vegetables, at least 90 minutes before you train. Also, make sure to eat a high-protein snack within 30 minutes following your exercise to refuel and rebuild. Take time to recover: Reward yourself after an intense fitness session by getting a massage once every two weeks. Not only will you feel great, but it will reduce lactic acid build up and increase blood flow. To save on costs, ask a friend or partner. Your mind and body will thank you. Stay fresh: Crunched for time? If you don’t have time to hit the showers right after a workout, there are some easy ways to freshen up for your trek home or next stop. Keep a small bag of travel-sized toi-

letries in your gym bag with essentials like a toothbrush, an extra stick of deodorant and one of Peterson’s post-fitness musthaves — a travel pack of Cottonelle Fresh Care Flushable Wipes — to help feel clean and refreshed after a sweat session. Equip yourself: If you are starting a new program, sometimes a new pair of shoes or a new playlist can provide the right motivation. Your old gear might be worn out and not up to the task. Proper training equipment can make or break your workout routine; it’s not just about fashion. Mix it up: Switching up your fitness routine is a great way to maximize your workout and stay motivated. For example,

combine resistance training with cardio and mix up the order week by week. Start by doing resistance training before your cardio for one week, and then switch it up, doing cardio first followed by resistance

training. Follow this pattern week by week for at least four weeks and your body will respond to the change-up. n For more information and tips from Peterson, visit www.facebook.com/cottonelle.

To Green your home — Start at the Tap n today’s environmentally conscious times, it seems we’re surrounded by the need to shop, act and live “green.” Some of our choices are easy and small, while others can be big and costly. But one thing is for sure — each choice can make a significant difference. Some of the most important green choices we can make are right within our own home, according to Kevin McJoynt at Danze, Inc. “Installing items like Energy Star appliances and energy-efficient windows is a great step in moving your home to be more green,” says McJoynt. “But changing your in-home water usage can have the most impact.” According to McJoynt, water shortages, energy demands and the cost of

transporting water continue to rise. “Finding ways to simply reduce our usage without dramatically altering our lifestyle could save billions of gallons of water each year in the United States.” “Tap Water” > 30

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / September 15th 2012 / 23

FeaturedColumnist The Book Bag by Robert Francis

The Book Bag by Robert Francis

Bizarre Politics

By Joe Rhatigan Illustrated by Jeff Albrecht studios Imagine! Publishing. $7.95 (Rating; Excellent) he subtitle of this book says volumes —“The Audacity, Stupidity, Incompetence, and General Idiocy of our Leaders… Unfortunately!” With the present presidential race in full swing, this paperback will serve as a much-needed antidote to assuage the negativity of the political blitz. As you’ll learn, the country has had a long; a very long history of bizarre politics and the author has captured many of these “moments” here. He digs deeply into the loony bin to drag forth not only some pretty unlikely candidates for office but also shows how adept they were in the “foot-in-mouth” campaign speech. Of course, there are plenty of outrageous false promises or unabashed lies that were meant to lure gullible voters. You’ll meet the mule that got elected to office, a prison inmate who ran for Congress (that’s sort of reversing the process I guess!) and other equally amazing politicos. Filled with tidbits that hopefully will elicit a chuckle or two, the contents of this humorous book underscores a simple fact. Some things seem to never change. When it comes to politics we have a long history of insane, inane, and often totally ludicrous behavior that makes one wonder how we have actually managed to make this system work for so long!

That Book About Harvard

By Eric Kestner Sourcebooks. $14.99 (Rating: Very Good) ric Kester is rather young to be already writing a memoir but, in this instance,

Nonfiction for the eclectic bibliophile …

it works because he only focuses on his first year at Harvard. The reader is invited to follow along as the insecure freshman copes with adjusting to a place that he never really feels comfortable in. Even though he obviously had the grades and was a member of the school’s football team, Kester still seems to lack a lot of confidence. Of course, that could well be just a persona he assumes to write this book and I have a feeling many of the events here were “embellished” to make them more entertaining. Nevertheless, reading about the author’s campus misadventures and some of the insights he provides are enjoyable and, at times, downright laugh provoking. Almost from the beginning (he locks himself out of his room wearing only a towel), Kester has social and academic problems which make him comment eventually that, “Now my goal was no longer to thrive at Harvard, but to survive Harvard.” From finally meeting the coed he has a crush on to trying to join one of the prestigious campus Finals Club, this young man shares the events and acquaintances that made his freshman year so memorable. While at Harvard, Kester wrote a popular column for the school newspaper, The Crimson, which explored the lighter side of college life. He is also a feature writer for CollegeHumor.com.

John Deere: New Generation and Generation II Tractors: History, Models, Variations & Specifications 1960s-1970s

By John Dietz Voyageur Press. $25 (Rating-Very Good) mong the Big Four (AGCO, Case IH, Ford-New Holland, and Deere) in 1991, the only survivor who hadn’t gone through a bankruptcy or merger was Deere & Company. The company’s survival

24 / September 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

through the turbulent economics of the Baby Boom era was guided primarily by a man who married the boss’s daughter after the war and entered the boardroom in 1953,” writes John Dietz. “While Deer & Company grew through the manufacture of products that garnered increasing respect and market share in the 1960s and 1970s, it also became widely recognized as one of the best-managed corporations in North America. This is the story of that era.” Filled with pages of illustrations and a very informative text, this is a book that any tractor person will want to own. One of the iconic brands in farm equipment, John Deere continues to be a major player in the Ag industry and equipment sectors. How the firm reached this lofty position is explained by John Dietz who has written a number of books about the company.

Field Guide to Mushrooms of Western North America

By R. Michael Davis, Robert Sommer and John Menge University of California Press. $26.95 (Rating-Excellent) he authors of this handy guide focus on an area rich in diverse species of mushrooms. Whether you are an amateur mushroom collector or mycologist, there’s information in this book you need to have. There are over 300 species of the region’s most common, distinctive and ecologically important mushrooms profiled in this field guide. You’ll find the most up-to-date sci-

ence on the role of fungi in the natural world and over 350 color illustrations. Check out the “Quick Identification Guide to Major Groups” in the front of the book, Take a look at the following “General Keys” section so you are familiar with it and then you’ll ready for some fieldwork. Light and small enough to be carried in a backpack, this book also pictures mushrooms common to the urban landscape. Naturally, you’ll want to pay very close attention to the information on edibility and look-alikes, both dangerous and benign. And, when in doubt, follow the safe path and don’t consume any mushroom you may have questions about.

Gaining Weight? High Fructose Corn Syrup and Obesity

By Dee Takemoto, Ph.D. and Joanne McIntyre Balboa Press. $11.99 (Rating-Good) ptos resident Dee Takemoto co-authors this book which addresses the role that high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) has on weight gain. She presents a solid case for those who are overweight that indicates if you avoid consuming products that use HFCS, a substantial loss of weight will follow. To achieve this goal, you must carefully read product labels and being able to recognize substances you don’t want to consume. There’s an entire chapter in this little book on how to do so. After making the case against HFCS, explaining how to intelligently decipher labels and a discussion of table sugar vs. HFCS, the authors focus on how to create a four-month program that will enable you to cut down and then eliminate HFCS from your diet. If you are overweight and tried various diet schemes, you might want to read this book. You might be pleased to discover this is actually the way to shed those extra pounds! n

CommunityNews

Federal report details health, economic status of older Americans

oday’s older Americans enjoy longer lives and better physical function than did previous generations, although, for some, an increased burden in housing costs and rising obesity may compromise these gains, according to a comprehensive federal look at aging. The report, Older Americans 2012: Key Indicators of Well-Being, tracks trends at regular intervals to see how older people are faring as the U.S. population grows older. In 2010, 40 million people age 65 and over accounted for 13 percent of the total population in the United States. In 2030, the number and proportion of older Americans is expected to grow significantly — to 72 million, representing nearly 20 percent of the population said the report, by the Federal Interagency Forum on Aging-Related Statistics. Older Americans 2012, the sixth report prepared by the Forum since 2000, provides an updated and accessible compendium of indicators, drawn from official statistics about the well-being of Americans primarily age 65 and older. The 176-page report provides a broad description of areas of well being that are improving for older Americans and those that are not. Thirty-seven key indicators are categorized into five broad areas—population, economics, health status, health risks and behaviors, and health care. This year’s report also includes a special feature on the end of life. Highlights of Older Americans 2012 include: • Increased labor force participation by older women — Participation of older women in the labor force has increased significantly over the past 40 years. In 1963, 29 percent of women aged 62-64 worked outside the home; in 2011, that had increased to 45 percent. In 1963, 17 percent of women aged 65-69 were in the labor force; in 2011, that had increased to 27 percent. For women 70 and older, 6 percent worked in 1963, increasing to

8 percent in 2011. Some older Americans work out of economic necessity. Others may be attracted by the social contact, intellectual challenges or sense of value that work often provides. • Declines in poverty, increases in income since 1974 — Older Americans are in better economic shape now than they were in 1974. Between 1974 and 2010, the proportion of older people with income below the poverty thresholds (less than $10,458 in 2010 for a person 65 and older) fell from 15 percent to 9 percent. The percentage with low income (between $10,458 and $20,916 in 2010 for people 65 and older) dropped from 35 percent to 26 percent. There were also notable gains in income over the period, as the proportion of people 65 and older with high income ($41,832 and above in 2010) rose from 18 percent to 31 percent. • Increased housing problems — The most significant issue by far is housing cost burden, which has been steadily increasing over time. In 1985, about 30 percent of households with householders or spouses age 65 and over spent more than 30 percent of their income on housing and utilities. By 2009, the proportion of older people with high housing cost burden reached 40 percent. For some multigenerational households, crowded housing is also prevalent. • A Rising rate of obesity — Obesity, a major cause of preventable disease and premature death, is increasing among older people. In 2009-2010, 38 percent of people age 65 and over were obese, compared with 22 percent in 1988-1994. In 2009-2010, 44 percent of people age 65-74 were obese, as were 29 percent of those age 75 and older. • More use of hospice — The percentage of older people who received hospice care in the last 30 days of life increased from 19 percent in 1999 to 43 percent in 2009. The percentage of older Americans who died in hospitals dropped from 49 percent in 1999 to 32 percent in 2009. The percentage that died at home increased from 15 percent in 1999 to 24 percent in 2009. In 2009, there were notable differences in the use of hospice services at the end of life among people of different race and ethnicity groups. n ••• Older Americans 2012: Key Indicators of Well-Being is available online at www.agingstats.gov.

Football

ACROSS 30. *Last year's BCS 1. Writer _____ runner-up Asimov 35. Having wings 6. *Quality of a football 37. *NCAA's initial lineman ____-team playoff 9. Shakespeare, e.g. 39. Academy in 13. Stallion's cry Annapolis 14. University of Rhode 40. Welt Island 41. Yesteryears 15. Used in printing 43. *1977 football flick, 16. Gymnast Comaneci "____ Tough" 17. Man's tasseled hat 44. Type of acid 18. Unlace 46. Manufactured 19. FEMA help, e.g. 47. "____ and proper" 21. *He's now a Bronco 48. Pollute 23. *Defensive ___ 50. "The ____ Show" 24. Deal with it (1976-1980) 25. *It airs Sunday night 52. "Owner of a Lonely football Heart" band 28. Silage holder 53. Film shot 55. Dog command 57. *Tide's color 61. Not very far 64. Raja's wife 65. Major time period 67. Water nymph

69. Beginning of illness 70. ENT's first concern? 71. Ownership document 72. Jolie's other half 73. *Conference of last 6 college champs 74. *Pittsburgh's "_____ Curtain"

10. Unfavorable prefix 11. Seabiscuit control 12. Small amount of residue 15. Go to NPR, e.g. 20. Enlighten 22. Suitable 24. Quality of a good soldier 25. Muslim ruler, DOWN respectfully 1. Overnight lodging 26. What scapegoat is 2. Make very hot and given dry 27. Shorter than 3. ____-de-camp California 4. *Quality of a good 29. Used for weaving player 31. *Tackler's breath? 5. *Moves with each 32. Each and all first down 33. Chinese silk plant 6. It makes a car shine 34. Takes off weight 7. Wrath 36. *Nevada Wolf 8. Most famous gremPack's home lin 38. Do over 9. Capital of West 42. Touch is one of Germany, 1949these 1989 45. Starting time

49. One from Laos 51. *Brother of #21 Across is a leader of this team 54. Genuflecting joints 56. Loyalty to the loyal, e.g. 57. Farmer's output 58. Alternate spelling of #64 Across 59. In or of the present month 60. Athletic event 61. Narcotics agent 62. Evander Holyfield's ear mark 63. *Ivy League's Bulldogs 66. Charlotte of "Facts of Life" fame 68. Ctrl+Alt+___ © Statepoint Media

Answers on

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For more Community Events and Entertainment visit

w w w.t p g on l i ne d ai l y. c om

Announcements

Nar-Anon

hat is co-dependency? What is enabling? What is this insanity? Am I the only one who feels this way? Join Nar-Anon, a world wide fellowship of relatives and friends of addicts who have been affected by someone else's addiction. Three meetings are now being held in Santa Cruz County, on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays. For a meeting near you call (888) 374-1164 or email saveyoursanity@aol.com

Constitution Day Essay Contest

Presented by the Santa Cruz County Board of Education his Contest is open to all ninth grade students who will attend a Santa Cruz County public, private, or home school in 2012-2013. Contestants will choose from a list of essay themes, and awards will be given for first, second, and third place. To learn more, visit www.santacruz.k12.ca.us/ ed_services/constitution_day.html.

Holiday Community Cookbook Contest

ew Leaf Community Markets is looking for holiday recipes that are both wholesome and delicious for its annual community holiday cookbook that will include all meal categories. A total of three recipes per person my be submitted. Everyone whose recipe is selected to be published will receive a $25 New Leaf gift card, and all entries will be entered to win a Diestel Turkey. Recipes must be original or clearly state the source, and ingredients must be found in New Leaf Community Markets. Contest ends Friday, September 7th. Submit recipes at http://bit.ly/NewLeafRecipes. For questions, email info@newleaf.com.

Ongoing Events Mondays thru October 29

Food for Life: Weightloss and Disease Prevention

6:00pm-8:00pm, New Leaf Community Markets Community Classroom, 1101 Fair Ave. SC ick-Start your Health for Weight Loss and Disease Prevention," is an 8-class series developed by Dr. Neal Barnard of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. Discover state-of-the-art nutrition science from Dr. Barnard via video and share Q & A with class instructor Sandi Rechenmacher, NC, HHP. Watch live foodprep demonstrations of delicious plant-based meals and enjoy samplings. Pre-register at fflclasses.org, or call Sandi at 831-325-3811

Second and Fourth Mondays First and Third Wednesdays

Alzheimers Support Groups

Monday: 2:00 - 3:30pm Wednesday: 5:30 – 7:00pm Conference Room at Elena Baskin/Live Oak Senior Center, 1777-A Capitola Rd, Santa Cruz acilitated by Jill Ginghofer, this group is for caregivers and family members of people with Alzheimers.

Tuesdays

Women Care Drop in Cancer Support

rop in Support Group is a gathering for women with all types of cancer. We offer support for women through all stages from diagnoses through treatment. For more information or to register call (831) 457-2273

Drop in Grief Support

6:00pm at Aegis, 125 Heather Terrace, Aptos oin other adults who are grieving the death of a friend or family member. Learn helpful tools for coping: Share stories and receive support from people who care. No registration required, please call (831) 430-3000

Ocean Gate Zen Center

7:00pm. 920 41st Ave. Suite B, Santa Cruz (next to Family Cycling Center) lease join us on Tues. evenings at 7pm for two 30 min. periods of sitting meditation with a 10 min walking meditation in between, followed by tea and discussion. Zazen instruction 6:30pm first Tues. of each month. Morning meditation schedule Tues. & Thurs. 6:45am & Sat. 8:30am followed by "Come As You Are Zen." Visit oceangatezen.org for more info.

Toastmasters. Open to all levels. Drop-ins welcome. For more information, call 831-335-3693.

Lectures on Western Civilization

Saturdays

1:30pm-2:30pm, Monterey Peninsula College xciting lectures will cover fascinating topics such as "The Art of Alchemy," as well as "Lord Byron: Mad, Bad, and Dangerous to Know." Purchase free parking tickets at the college, lectures are free.

Overeaters Anonymous

6:30-7:30pm at Teach by the Beach #50 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos For more information, call (831) 429-7906

First Wednesday Each Month

Child Welfare Review

First Tuesdays Each Month

6:00pm- 9:00pm 1400 Emeline Avenue room 206, Santa Cruz. he orientation is designed to review the child welfare system and to give you a chance to have your question answered by child welfare staff. To register to one of the meetings and for directions, please call 454-4024.

Tail Wagging World of Dog Ownership

Second and Fourth Wednesdays

6:30pm at the Santa Cruz SPCA, 2685 Chanticleer Ave., Santa Cruz (cross street is Soquel Ave.).

First Tuesdays and Third Wednesdays Each month

Orientations to Become Advocates for Children

North County, 5:30-7p.m., first Tuesday of month (for location details contact Danielle at 761-2956 X102) South County, 5:30-7 p.m., third Wednesday of the month at the CASA Office, 813 Freedom Blvd. Watsonville ASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Santa Cruz County needs your help. Volunteer 3-5 hours per week to provide support, guidance, and a powerful voice in court for children who have been removed from their homes because of abuse or neglect. Everyone welcome, men and bilingual folks especially encouraged. To RSVP call 761-2956 Ext. 102, or email Danielle@casaofsantacruz.org

Second Tuesdays Each Month

Free Job Seek Workshop!

6:00pm-7:00pm, Gateway Bible Church, 5000 Granite Creek Rd. Scotts Valley or more information, visit http://hirewire.org

PFLAG

(Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) 7:00pm-9:00pm, 900 High St. First Congregational Church of Santa Cruz o learn more, call (831) 427-4016 or visit www.pflagscc.org

Wednesdays

Toastmasters: Speak for Success

12:00pm-1:00pm, St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 5271 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley. iving a business presentation? Interviewing for a job? Improve your speaking skills in a friendly, supportive environment with Redwood Ramblers

26 / September 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Freedom Forum Presents: Constitution Classes

7:00pm, Quaker Friends Meeting House, 225 Rooney St. Santa Cruz or more information, visit www.meetup.com/ santacruz-freedom-forum/

Thursdays

Capitola-Aptos Rotary Club Meeting

12-1:30 p.m. at Seascape Golf Course. ontact Doug at 831- 724-9192 or e-mail dnakashima@razzolink.com for more information.

Overeaters Anonymous

1:00-2:00pm, Louden Nelson Community Center, Rm. 5 301 Center St. Santa Cruz For more information, call (831) 429-7906

Second Thursdays Each Month

Veterans of Foreign Wars

6:30 pm, 2259 7th Ave. Santa Cruz Commander: Ronals Petty. For more information, call (831) 475-9804

Second and Fourth Thursdays Each Month

Cabrillo Host Lions Club

7:00pm at the Cabrillo Community Center, Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Rd. ublic is invited to all programs. Contact President Jess Allen 831-684-2721 or Past President Barbara Chamberlain at 831-6883356 for meeting/dinner reservations or information or visit www.cabrillohostlions.org.

Third Thursday Each Month

Pacific Speakers Association

7:00pm, Firehouse on Soquel Dr. Aptos peakers helping speakers get gigs. Call (831) 332-8221 for more information.

Fridays

Clutterers Anonymous

5:30-6:45 Sutter Maternity & Surgical Center, 2900 Chanticleer Ave, Soquel Dr. Santa Cruz.

ired of Clutter? Stuff piling up? Support is available. CLA meeting every Friday. For more info call 426-1868 FREE

Aptos Certified Farmers Market

8:00 -12:00pm at Cabrillo College, Aptos. he Aptos Market, with over 80 vendors, is open year round, with the best selections of fresh fruits and vegetables, plants, seedlings, flowers, local honey, fresh eggs, fresh fish, artisan baked goods and gourmet foods. In addition, family activities, music, cooking demos by professional chefs, gardening workshops, seasonal fairs and events are a part of the market.

Scotts Valley Farmer’s Market

9a.m.-1p.m. SV Community Center, 360 Kings Village Drive www.santacruzfarmersmarket.org

Come As You Are Zen

9-10:30 am, Ocean Gate Zendo, 920 41st Ave. Suite B, Santa Cruz (next to Family Cycling Center) ome as you are Zen focuses on Buddhist practices that enhance our daily lives. This will be an informal talk with time for discussion. Free — donations accepted. Visit oceangatezen.org for more info.

Sundays

Over-Eaters Anonymous

9:00am-10:15am, Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center, 2900 Chanticleer Ave. Sc. A is a 12-step support group for those who wish to stop eating compulsively. All are welcome. Free childcare with advance reservation by 5pm, Fridays. Call (831) 429-7906.

Dated Events

Saturday September 15 Veterans of Foreign Wars Flea Market

7:00am-3:00pm, VFW Post 7263 at 2259 7th Ave. Santa Cruz o reserve a sales table, call (831) 475-9804 or (831) 426-7968. Tables will be available for $15, each located on both the inside and outside. First come, first reserved. Vendors may start setting up at 6:00am the day of the Flea Market. Any items left by vendors will be considered abandoned.

The United Nations Association and UNICEF Present: The Linus Pauling Peace Prize Awards Auction

2:00pm-5:00pm, in a private garden at 2150 Sunny Acres Dr. Santa Cruz ome to this wonderful art auction. Over 50 beautiful pictures and sculptures by some well known artists will be auctioned off. Come early! (1pm) There'll be champagne and goodies to eat. The cause is great! For more info, call (831) 425-7618

Sunday September 16 We Dig the Trails! Volunteer with the Nisene Marks Volunteer Trail Crew!

Saturday: 9:00am / Sunday: 9:30am, Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, Entry Kiosk he Nisene Marks Volunteer Trail Crew has helped make it possible for others to safely enjoy the beauty of our park. The Trail Crew

meets the third Sunday of every month, rain or shine. A typical workday lasts until mid afternoon. Please bring your own work gloves, lunch, and water. Join us for a unique perspective of the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. For more information, visit www.advocatesfnm.org.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Flea Market

Friday September 21 Hitchcock Tournament to Benefit Cystic Fibrosis

11:00am, DeLaveaga Golf Course, Santa Cruz ee for golfers is $150 and includes a day of golf, a gift bag, and a no host post tournament cocktail reception. This tournament supports the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. For more information, call (831) 989-6500. To register online, visit http://southbay.cff.org/hitchcockgolf

Saturday September 22 pARTy In the Library

7:00pm, Scotts Valley Library, 251 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley he Friends of the Library, Scotts Valley, are excited to invite you to our fourth annual fundraising event. The elegant evening will host a raffle, as well as a silent and live auction featuring art from paintings, pastels, jewelry, clay, photography, glass, fabric, living art, and more! Tickets: $20, available at the Scotts Valley Library, Zinnias, and Mollie's Cafe.

Saturday September 29 Founder's Big Day at Big Basin Redwoods State Park

9:00am-5:00pm, Big Basin Redwoods State Park oin us as we honor the visionaries, valued workers and visitors that shaped the character of Big Basin over the past 110 years. Revel in the beauty of the majestic old growth redwoods that inspired the movement to Save the Redwoods! Celebrate our wild heritage in California's oldest state park with morning coffee talk, old redwood loop walks, a rustic logging presentation, our famous melodrama, and an old fashioned games for the kids to round out the day! For details, call (831) 338-8883, or visit www.bigbasin.org.

Barking Lot Party for Animal Shelter

12:00pm-3:00pm, New Leaf Community Markets, 1101 Fair Ave. SC ome support the Santa Cruz Animal Shelter. With adoptable pets, pet contest, pet photos for a special price by Positive Vista Photography, free pet food samples, and $2 hotdogs for humans. For more information, visit www.newleaf.com. n

This is the last month that Saturn is in your sign and you have learned some important and sometimes painful, lessons that have nevertheless given you important tools and a philosophy for the future. But you are also benefitting from Jupiter's influence to encourage you to broaden your horizons and step outside your comfort zone. This becomes especially important in September. You are helped by Venus, your ruler, spending time in the wonderfully outgoing and fun loving sign of Leo from the 8th, so this is perfect for new friendships and getting involved with those of like mind.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 23)

Announcements

Zizzo's Coffee Local Art Exhibit

iew fun and whimsical paintings by our local "artist-of-the-month" Angelo Lopez. Angelo is an accomplished artist having illustrated several children's books and painted murals at local libraries. Come let Angelo's artwork make you smile. Many other local artists are on display as well, including Gary Comb's new sea glass jewelry collection. Zizzo's coffee is located in the Brown Ranch Market Place, 3555 Clares St. Capitola. Hours: Mon-Sat: 6:00am-6:00pm, Sun: 7:00am - 5:00pm. For more info. call (831) 477-0680

Cabrillo Youth Strings Music Program Begins Fall Semester

egistration for the Cabrillo Youth Strings/Suzuki Music Program is underway. String players ages 5-18 are welcome to join the private lesson, chamber, and orchestral programs. Auditions for the orchestral groups will be held on Friday, September 7th at 3:454:15pm and 5:55-6:15. The first rehearsal will be Friday, September 7th, from 4:15-5:55pm. Auditions and rehearsal will be held in the Music Building, VAPA 500. For more information, call (831) 479-6101.

Ongoing Events Ongoing Weekdays thru October 19

Fiber and Flora: An Art Exhibition Presented by the Cultural Council of Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz County Government Center, 701 Ocean St. 1st and 5th floors. (Public reception: Friday, September 7th, 5-8:00pm.) he new art exhibition presented by the Cultural Council of Santa Cruz features two artists whose work is very different in discipline, but are both rooted in the exemplary use of color in their subjects. Also included in this exhibit is an assortment of art created by Santa Cruz County employees.

Tuesdays

BINGO

6:30 p.m. Santa Cruz Elks Lodge, 150 Jewell St. osted by Soquel Sports Foundation. BuyIn $25. Also, we have a special BINGO, celebrating our 2nd anniversary, on Sept. 28 at 6:30. Buy-in only $15. www.soquelsports.com

Tuesdays and Weekends

Live Music on the Esplanade

Paradise Beach Grille 215 Esplanade, Capitola. ive music weekends and acoustic guitar Tuesdays. For schedule and more information: (831) 476-4900 Or visit paradisebeachgrille.com

Wednesdays

Peninsula Banjo Band

7:00 - 8:30 p.m., Harry’s Hofbrau, 390 Saratoga Ave, San Jose orty-seven years of performing in the Bay Area, over 250 popular tunes. Come see our band for Free in Sunnyvale Every Wednesday. No cover. Contact Lee McLaughlin, Booking Agent, at 408-993-BAND (2263) for information about booking the band for Non-profit events (donations are tax deductible). www.PeninsulaBanjoBand.org

Wednesdays & Fridays

Salsa Rueda Class

7 pm at Louden Nelson Center, 301 Center St., Santa Cruz earn Salsa Rueda. For more information visit www.salsaruedasantacruz.com or call 831-457-7432

(no meeting Jan., July, Aug. or Dec.) riters and Poets are invited to a new monthly open mike reading series. Come and read your fiction, essays, or poetry. For more information, call Jean at (831) 4754221

Dated Events

Last Thursdays Each Month

Monthly Argentine Tango at Star Bene Italian/Argentine Restarante

4:30pm-9:30pm, Star Bene Italian/Argentene Restarante, 21245 East Cliff Dr. his is a night for true "Social Tango." Order a wonderful meal from the Star Bene Argentine Menu, (or their well known italian menu), and enjoy the ambiance of Argentina and join us in a social tango dance to music from the Golden Age of Tango. Private instruction and classes by arrangement. For more information, call Michael (831) 239-2247.

Fridays

Argentine Tango at Dance Synergy

8:00-8:30pm class; 8:30-10:00+pm, practice 9055 Soquel Dr. Aptos e will cover the fundamentals of leading and following traditional Argentine Social Tango, focusing on what you need to dance well and enjoy yourself at the Milongas, (Tango dance party) and other social Tango events. For questions, contact Michael, stclare7@tangoworld.net (831) 239-2247

First Fridays Each Month he First Friday Art Tour is a Santa Cruz Institute of Contemporary Arts event, managed in conjunction with the participating art venues. The event takes place year-round and illuminates some of the most talented local artists from local galleries. To find out where to participate in a First Friday art tour, visit firstfridaysantacruz.com (Most galleries are open 12-9 pm for First Friday viewings.)

First Friday Art Tour

Second Fridays Each Month

Big Band Dance

7:30pm-10:00pm, at Mid-County Senior Center 829 Bay Ave, Capitola allroom dancing to live music by The 10th Ave. Band. Refreshments, large floor, friendly atmosphere, free parking. Open to the public-singles welcome! Suggested donation, $6 per person. Proceeds benefit MCSC. For more information, call (831) 476-4711.

Fourth Friday Each Month

Musical Me Inc. Family Jam Night

6:30-8:30p.m. 239 High St., Santa Cruz. ring your favorite music to dance to and any instruments you'd like to share or perform with. Sliding Scale donation per family of $10-$25 (all proceeds going to our scholarship fund.) For more information call 831-438-3514.

Fourth Saturdays Each Month

Writers and Poets Open Mike

2:00pm-4:00pm, Porter Memorial Library, 3050 Porter St. Soquel

Saturday September 22 History of the Day Family and Day Valley Garden Party

2:00pm-4:00pm, Home of Doug and Gwen Kaplan, Day Valley oin us at the home of Doug and Gwen Kaplan for a Garden Party, where you will hear about the History of the Day Family and Day Valley. We will have special guest speaker Carolyn Swift who is a local historian and the Capitola Museum Curator. Reservations Required, call (831) 688-1467, $30.00 for Aptos Museum Members, $35.00 for non-members.

Saturday September 22 Sunday October 21 The Distinguished Artists Concert Series

Saturday: 8:00pm, Sunday: 3:00pm, Cabrillo College Music Hall n Saturday, experience the joy of music with pianist Daniel Greenbush. On Sunday, enjoy pianist James D'Leon. For ticket information, call (831) 539-0000 or visit www.distinguishedartists.org.

Sunday September 23 14th Annual Kidrageous Carnival

12:00pm-5:00pm, Watsonville City Plaze Park on Main and Peck Streets njoy lots of family fun including music, dancing, magic, crafts, games, food, facepainting, henna tattoos, manicures, haircuts, bounce houses, dunk booth, raffle and more! Show your support for children in our community and children's cancer awareness month by coming to this outrageously fun event. Visit jacobsheart.org/community-calendar /kidrageous or call (831) 724-9100 x 105

Saturday September 29 Sunday September 30 Oktoberfest by the Sea

12:00-6:00pm, Davenport Roadhouse Resteraunt, 1 Davenport Ave. Davenport n outdoor, family event that will benefit Tip the Ocean, featuring great food, beer, live music, raffle, and entertainment for kids. Tip the Ocean is a new program being launched by LiVBLUEin partnership with Save our Shores and the Davenport Roadhouse to raise funds for local beach clean-ups and to bring kids to the ocean who have never been before. Enjoy grilled chicken, sausages, side dishes, and five different beers for sale. Music by the Coffis Brothers and the McCoy Tyler Band. With a bounce house, face-painting, and games. Admission is free. For more information, visit davenportroadhouse.com.

Friday October 5 Imagine Celebrates 10 Years of Service with Short Films and Fundraiser

6:30pm-10:00pm, Kuumbwa Jazz Center, 320-2 Cedar St. Downtown SC he event will feature a series of short films, presenting the opportunity to learn about Imagine through the words, pictures, and experiences of people who receive services, their support staff, family members, and friends. VIP party to take place after, tickets may be purchased at www.imaginesls.org.

Sunday October 7 ‘Soup to Nuts: Music for the Saxophone and Piano’

4:00pm, Christ Lutheran Church, 10707 Soquel Dr. Aptos he Wolford-Rosenblum Duo, well-known for their many performances in the Cabrillo College Distinguished Arts series, with the Santa Cruz Chamber Players, and at First Night, is back in town. Dale Wolford and Ivan Rosenblum will feature their usual eclectic smorgasbord of baroque to the 20th century. Classical jazz, as well as a little poetry will be thrown in as a garnish. The program features music by Telemann, Mozart, Schubert, Brahms, Jonathan Lloyd, and Gershwin. Tickets are $10 and $15 and are available at the door 1/2 hour before the performance. For more information, call (831) 479-1968.

Saturday October 13 Soroptimist International of Watsonville presents:

Hawaiian Luau Fantasy Fundraiser

3:00pm, Lagoon House at Pajaro Dunes ome enjoy cocktails, pupus, hawaiian tunes, as well as a silent and live auction! Exciting live entertainment will be provided by The Surfing Magician and The Island Breeze Band. Live auctioneer is Karen Hamilton from KWAV. Reservations are required, please respond by October 6th. For more information, contact Lisa at (831) 212-4905.

Saturday October 13 Sunday October 14

Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival

9:00am-5:00pm, Mail St. Half Moon Bay he World Pumpkin Capitol of Half Moon Bay celebrates its bountiful fall harvest and autumn splendor with a special display of gigantically enormous champion pumpkins, three stages of smashing entertainment, nonstop live music, the Great Pumpkin Parade, a bone-chilling haunted house, harvest inspired crafts, homestyle foods, and more! For more information, call (650) 726-9652 or visit www.mirimarevents.com.

Saturday October 20

Moonlight Dinner Train Party

6:00pm-10:30pm, Roaring Camp, Felton reat your family to an evening of fun and relaxation at Roaring Camp's Western Themed Moonlight Dinner Train Party. Start with a hearty steak BBQ dinner in the moonlight, followed by a leisurely train ride aboard the vintage railway cars. The stream train stops atop Bear Mountain to a glowing campfire, hot apple pie, and a country western band. Tickets $45 for adults, $35 for children. Parking is $8 per car. For more information, call (831)

This month you have Mars going through your sign. This brings energy, action and hones your ability to get what you want once your intentions are set. Be aware of conflict, however, as you are likely to stand up for what you believe in rather than be quietly diplomatic. You have passion too, to follow your dreams and can work hard at what supports you and yours. Meanwhile you discover new people and social situations which are supportive and gives you confidence and self belief. The best time to travel is in the first week.

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

You are benefitting from Jupiter your ruler, being in the most powerful position just now, to help all kinds of partnerships and relationships. Be open to new people coming into your life bringing expertise and optimism, and also the chance for you to discuss new shared ventures and plans. Venus helps with travel and exploration and this brings the possibility for travel for pleasure but also commercial opportunities come through overseas connections. You are finally reaping the benefits for your considerable recent efforts.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

This is the final month that Saturn, your ruler, will be in the career part of your chart. It is likely that you have established your position and found that the respect you have earned has been from your efforts and sheer hard work and you can teach others a thing or two! For you there are no short cuts, but you know the value of gaining experience and knowledge through practical application. A romantic start to the month gives you a boost although surprising changes here are delightful and fortuitous for those seeking new love.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20)

This month is great for love and romance and you may find that a business partnership leads to something more if you are single. Take note of the 16th where there is a fresh start around your finances. Some good advice can save you some cash. Use your powers of persuasion from the 18th as you have the ability to be more witty and articulate and charm your way into a situation that is going to be fantastic for you. Create balance in your life by discovering more equality between giving and taking; one of these is out of synch and perhaps you need to be more receptive to what is on offer.

Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb. 18)

This is a month for negotiation, shared dreams and building a future with someone on your side. It is also about you being open to offers and people who are good to know and from whom you can learn much, but also you have your own qualities to share. There needs to be a more equal footing in an existing relationship so discussions can be insightful but rewarding. It could be that you need more space too so you are possibly house hunting, especially after last month's Full Moon in your sign. Allow what you started to reach completion in its own time.

Pisces (Feb. 19-Mar. 20)

Now is the time to get organized and be ready for the new season. You have had a period of confusion which is soon to end and this helps you to make the most of current circumstances to downsize and streamline your wardrobe and your life. You are also keen to adopt a new healthy lifestyle regime and of course exercise is easier when you do something you love, especially if there is competition involved. Love and romance is possible with someone younger after the 17th. Jealousy can be a feature too, either from what you feel or the fact that someone coverts what you have.

Aries (March 21-April 20)

Initially you may have unusual expenses that you could do without, but if you are investing in the future then this is well worth it. The point is you want value for money and you have to work harder to get the best deal. Still, you are generally pleased with developments and you are encouraged to make the most of fantastic stars for your social life after the 6th. With the New Moon on the 16th, there is a fresh start and the promise of more enjoyable times, since you may have rearranged your working life to allow more time for what you want to do. This is also a very creative period.

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

This month sees an emphasis on practicalities and your domestic life. Important changes here mean that you have to change your routine somewhat to accommodate what is now part of your set up. Money is in short supply in the first week but this eases up after the 7th. At this time, it is a matter of making the most of who you know and your contacts to point you in the right direction. Jupiter's influence is at its strongest throughout the month so be open to possibilities, the chance to travel and perhaps learn new skills. Your world is opening up considerably.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

Last month's Full Moon was the ending and culmination of a period that could have been quite a life changer. Now you spend some time adjusting to recent changes and know that you will make the best of whatever comes your way. It is important to be accepting just now, as everything happens for a reason. Venus has been in your sign for the last few weeks and this is fabulous for your love life and discovering what pleases you. Now that you have a new insight into this your next steps become practical and self nurturing. After the 23rd, you see that home is exactly where the heart is.

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

Be prepared for an amazing month although initially it may not start that way. Arguments and disagreements make way for a fabulous new period as Venus enters your sign from the 7th. Not only are you going to be lucky in love but your finances are on the up too. This can be a simple as receiving gifts or the repayments of debt, but there is more for you, at any rate. This is a good period to reassess your health and well being and follow those practices that support your long term vitality. Keep your wits about you to be alert to some fantastic opportunities.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 23)

While the Sun is in your sign, you can look back and decide what has worked for you in the last twelve months and what you are glad to see the back of. This is because it is a time of change, but what you have chosen for yourself rather than having to adapt to enforced circumstances. Of course, you feel more empowered and ready to take on new challenges and projects. Make sure that the people you have onside have your best interests at heart. Discuss as much as you need to for your peace of mind. The New Moo on the 16th is a great starting point. ••• Find Out More www.AnnabelBurton.tv

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sep. 22)

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / September 15th 2012 / 27

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Agrofuels Not Carbon-Neutral Energy Source Dear EarthTalk: What are “agrofuels” and why are organizations like Friends of the Earth campaigning against them?

— Bill Wilson, Boise, ID

grofuels, also known as biofuels (e.g., ethanol, biodiesel), are fuels derived from plants instead of from oil or other fossil fuels. What makes them appealing to environmentalists and others, at least in theory, is the fact that they can be a carbon-neutral energy source. Plants take in and store carbon dioxide (CO2) during the process of photosynthesis. When plants die, whether through natural causes or when humans harvest them, this stored CO2 is released back into the atmosphere in an age-old cycle that doesn’t contribute any additional greenhouse gas into the system. But when we extract and burn oil and other fossil fuels, we are taking CO2 that would have otherwise remained locked up deep below the Earth’s surface and releasing it into the atmosphere, essentially overloading the planet’s carbon balance and leading to more global warming. But as things stand today, the overall process of producing agrofuels is far from carbon neutral, given the fossil fuels expended in growing, harvesting and processing the crops (petroleum-based fertilizers and pesticides, diesel fuel to run tractors, etc…) and then distributing them (via carbon-spewing trucks, trains, ships and airplanes). Of course, growing such crops organically, processing, and distributing them without fossil fuels would help close the gap between today’s reality and the dream of carbonneutrality. Another major hurdle for agrofuels is the fact that harvesting crops across millions of acres for fuel instead of for food would leave

Photo Credit: Hemera collection

Biofuels (or agrofuels) can be a carbon-neutral energy source, but the overall process of producing them is far from carbon neutral, given the substantial amount of fossil fuels expended in growing, harvesting, processing and distributing them. many hungry mouths to feed in the U.S. and elsewhere. Researchers are hoping to overcome this conundrum by generating agrofuels from less land- and input-intensive “crops” such as switchgrass, sugarcane, wood waste or even algae. The latter “feedstock” is especially promising because it can be grown in non-traditional agricultural settings including indoor labs and even on offshore ocean platforms. But regardless of the wow factor, producing small quantities of fuel from such experimental crops costs hundreds times more than getting oil to gas pumps, so researchers have a long way to go before agrofuels made from these nouveau source crops can make inroads into the mainstream. Given the issues with producing agrofuels domestically, suppliers are increasingly looking to source them abroad, essentially trading one set of foreign fuel producers for another. But according to Friends of the Earth International (FOEI), “Land grabbing by large companies and agrobusinesses to the detriment of local livelihoods, forests and other ecosystems, with gross violations of human

rights, have been witnessed in many countries where agrofuels are produced.” FOEI adds: “The production of agrofuels…is generating serious environmental damage and eroding the people’s ability to control the production, trade and consumption of food, given that more and more agricultural land is being devoted for energy crops.” As recently as five years ago environmentalists were hailing agrofuels as a viable alternative to fossil fuels in the face of increased global warming and skyrocketing oil prices. But as the agrofuels industry starts to grow up, many are wondering whether or not pursuing such a baggage-laden alternative is really worth the trouble, especially in light of more promising developments in other sectors of the renewable fuels sector. n ••• Contact: Friends of the Earth International, www.foei.org. EarthTalk® is written and edited by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss and is a registered trademark of E – The Environmental Magazine (www.emagazine.com). Send questions to: earthtalk@emagazine.com.

“School Busses” from pg 22

complete stop at all stop lights and stop signs, drive slowly near bus stops and watch for children crossing the road. • Slow Down — Use caution if you are driving in residential areas and school zones. Fines for speeding in an area can be hefty. • Allow for Extra Time During Your Commute — School bus drivers have to follow the same speed limit rules as every other driver; however, they make frequent stops which can delay traffic. Know the bus routes in your community and allow ample travel time when school is in session. n ••• David Silvey is a Vice President at Security Services, AlliedBarton www.alliedbarton.com

“Ocean Health” from pg 21

coastal water science and policy issues; troubled sea otter populations in Alaska and California; the socio-economic impacts of storms and sea level rise on coastal communities; toxic algal blooms; and sustainability of coastal fisheries. The additional capacity provided by the expansion will serve ongoing efforts and support new programs for many decades into the future. n

“Tap Water” from pg 23

• Take a shower rather than a bath. A full bathtub requires up to 70 gallons of water, while taking a five-minute shower uses 10 to 25 gallons. Want to be even more efficient? Switch your showerhead to a water-saving option. “We realize showers are a tricky one when it comes to saving water. Homeowners want to make sure they have a well-performing shower experience,” says McJoynt. “However, the EPA WaterSense program recently published standards for showerheads that consider both conservation and performance to build support of these water-saving units. Be sure to look for the WaterSense certification mark.” • Fix those leaks. Most leaky faucets can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water each year. “Better design and engineering of many new bathroom products actually gives the user improved performance as well as efficiency,” adds McJoynt. “Faucets, toilets and showerheads are great examples. They’re just like other appliances that use less energy, but still work very well.” If all the water-saving green choices still have you overwhelmed, select one tip at a time and incorporate it into your home. Looking for other tips? Visit the EPA’s WaterSense website. n ••• For more information about the performance and efficiency of Danze faucets, showerheads and toilets, visit www.danze.com.

• Divided Highways — You must always stop for flashing red lights; however, most states do not require drivers to stop when on the opposite side of a divided highway. Use extreme caution if you are in this situation as passengers may be trying to cross in that area, especially if there is a crosswalk. • Buses Need Turning Space — Just like trucks, buses have a wide turning radius. Remember to provide them with ample turning space so they can maneuver easily on the road. • Watch for Children Waiting for the Bus — As the driver, you are responsible for keeping an eye on the road and on children waiting for the bus. Come to a

At the Center for Ocean Health, UC Santa Cruz has brought together some of the world’s leading coastal and marine scientists, government and non-government coastal conservation and policy experts, and public education leaders. Their projects and partnerships are addressing a wide range of concerns, including complex

30 / September 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

McJoynt offers up these tips on how you can immediately start conserving water (and save money) in your home: • Replace older toilets (1992 or earlier) with newer, high efficiency toilets (HETs). They operate at 1.28 gallons per flush and could save 11 gallons of water per toilet per day. New HETs outperform and are more stylish than many toilets found in current homes. • Be sure to turn off the tap when brushing your teeth — it could save nearly 3,000 gallons of water per year. • Update your bathrooms with newer certified lavatory faucets. According to the Environmental Protection Agency WaterSense program, if every household in the U.S. installed these water-saving lavatory faucets, more than $350 million in water utility bills and more than 60 billion gallons of water annually would be saved, plus $600 million in energy costs for heating the water. • Always turn the water off between tasks. Letting your faucet run for five minutes uses about as much energy as letting a 60-watt light bulb run for 14 hours. • Make sure to wash only full loads of laundry. Using a high-efficiency washing machine is ideal, as they use about 28 gallons of water per load, versus an average machine that uses 41 gallons.

There is a U.S. Department of Treasury rule that does away with paper checks for most federal benefit and non-tax payments by March 1, 2013. With a few exceptions, this mandate includes Social Security, SSI, Veterans Affairs, Railroad Retirement Board, Office of Personnel Management benefits and other non-tax payments.

Tracking Social Security

By Terry McFall Social Security District Manager in Santa Cruz So, why the push for electronic payments instead of paper checks received in the mail? There’s a list of reasons an electronic payment is better than an oldfashioned paper check:

It’s safer: no risk of checks being lost or stolen; It’s easy and reliable: no need to wait for the mail or go to the bank to cash a check; It saves taxpayers money: no cost for postage and paper and printing; Treasury estimates this will save taxpayers $1 billion over 10 years; and It’s good for the environment: it saves paper and eliminates the need for physical transportation.

If you still get your check in the mail, don’t wait for the new rule to go into effect next year — sign up for electronic payments now. Please visit www.godirect.org today and begin getting your Social Security and SSI payments the safe, easy, reliable way — electronically. n

ittle Harry was found hopping around an empty parking lot, playfully chasing pieces of garbage that blew by and pouncing on ants as they worked their way towards a dumpster. During his play, Harry wasn’t using one of his front paws and would periodically sit down to lick it and yelp in pain. It was very apparent that this little puppy was lost and soon after being found, Harry came to our shelter and was discovered to have a nail piercing his paw. Once he was safely at the Santa Cruz SPCA, doctors removed the nail, bandaged him up and treated the infection that had begun. Once Harry was properly cared for, the little six-month-old Terrier/Chihuahua mix waited and waited for his owners to get him but no one came. While some dogs feel fearful or withdrawn when they first enter a shelter, Harry’s been was smiles and seems to only feel excited and optimistic about his future. This adorable little orphan is now available for adoption and boy is he ready to make someone’s day! If you’re looking for a playful and fun little dog who can keep up with the big boys but is small enough to tote around with you wherever you go than Harry will fit your bill and then some. He is young and excited about his new lease on life, you’ll be able to feel some of his joy the minute you meet him as he bounces up to give as many kisses as you can handle. He would be a wonderful fit for a family with energetic yet respectful children, he would make a great playmate for another younger dog, or be a faithful and fun running, hiking or walking companion. Harry is now completely healthy and weights about eight pounds. He has a beautiful tan coat that is short and needs very little in the way of grooming while also being low on shedding. Since he is a young boy, training classes for basic obedience would be a wonderful way for Harry to learn all the important commands every dog should know, ensuring his future success. If you’re active, optimistic and playful…Harry is the mirror match for you. Come fill the other half of his glass! If you would like to help animals like Harry and his orphaned friends, please consider donating to the Santa Cruz SPCA. The Santa Cruz SPCA is a 501c3 charitable organization and receives no government funding, relying solely on public donations to run its many programs that benefit the animals and people of our community. For more information call the Santa Cruz SPCA at 465-5000, or visit www.santacruzspca.org. The SPCA is located at 2685 Chanticleer Avenue in Santa Cruz, CA 95065 and is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 p.m. The SPCA Mall Adoption Center and Gift Shop is located at the Capitola Mall near Target and is open on Friday from 11am-5pm and Sat-Sun 11am-4pm. n

hances are, if you receive Social Security benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or any federal payment, you receive it electronically. More than 90 percent of people getting monthly Social Security benefits already receive electronic payments. If you don’t yet, that’s about to change. There is a U.S. Department of Treasury rule that does away with paper checks for most federal benefit and non-tax payments by March 1, 2013. With a few exceptions, this mandate includes Social Security, SSI, Veterans Affairs, Railroad Retirement Board, Office of Personnel Management benefits and other non-tax payments. People required to switch have the option of direct deposit to a bank or credit union account or they can have their monthly payment directed into a Direct Express™ debit card account (Treasury’s debit card program). Please visit www.godirect.org to learn more.

Harry’s Glass is Always Full!

Electronic Social Security Benefit Payments – The best (And soon the only) way to get your benefits

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SPCA Featured Pet

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