Aptos Times December 15th 2012

December 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. 24

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

Windjammer Holiday Tradition

Windjammer Lounge holiday decor

By Petra Probert

T

Aptos Junior High Students gather in Times Square, the last stop on the trip.

THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME Aptos Jr. High Students Take A Tour Of Our Nation’s Capital

By Colleen Hughes

S

aturday, November 10 was a chilly night; the air filled with electricity. Parents, & students, were huddled in groups chatting with excitement.

Assistant Principal Richard Determan was racing around

answering questions, coordinating with bus drivers and counting off the 79 kids that were about to embark on a history trip they would never forget.

This was a once in a lifetime opportunity for these students to learn about the history of our country. Finally, with buses

loaded, parents said their goodbyes.

At 7:30 p.m., they were on their way to SFO. Destination: Washington D.C. Mr. Determan had been planning this trip for a year and has been doing so every year since 1991. This expedition com-

memorated the 35th Anniversary Of Aptos Junior High School’s participation in this traveling history lesson coordinated by World Strides.

The Assistant Principal runs these trips so smoothly, like a well-oiled machine.

... continued on page 7

he Windjammer Lounge in the Rancho del Mar Shopping Center is keeping up with a Holiday Tradition that the late owner Gailen Webb who passed away this last June so enjoyed. At this time of year, hundreds of Christmas decorations are put up all through the lounge taking visitors and patrons back to their youth and holiday fantasies. It truly is a sight to behold!

It is an unbelievable collection of lights, snowmen, Santas, nutcrackers, and all the characters of your favorite Christmas stories and traditions. Mike and Shannon worked many long, hard hours to bring Christmas in 2012 to the Windjammer.

In addition to the usual festivities, the Windjammer is collecting new toys or gift cards in support of the Center for Nonviolence. Please help give disadvantaged kids a happy Christmas by dropping off your contribution by December 20 at the Windjammer, 1 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos open to 2 a.m. 365 days per year. I

CommunityBriefs

Table of Contents

11

5

16

21

Cover The Trip of a Lifetime – Aptos Jr. High Students Take A Tour Of Our Nation’s Capital by Colleen Hughes Windjammer Holiday Tradition by Petra Probert 3 5

VOL. 21 NO. 24

6 7 9 10 11 12

APTOS TIMES

14 25 29

8

16 23 21 22

Community News Pajaro Valley Family Shelter Charity Drive at Salesian Elementary and Junior High School • Firefighters and Police Officers for Kids Toy Drive • SCCRTC to get $5.3 Million for Rail Improvements AHS’ Pughe nominated for Educator of the Year • Body in Motion Pilates Hosts ‘Project Night Night’ Pregnant Mare Rescue, Inc. at Risk! • Holiday Fund Drive Addresses Housing Issue • Intensive Therapy Groups for survivors of Child Sexual Abuse ‘The Trip Was Amazing’ – Noah Kaufmann, Aptos Junior High 8th grade student, writes about his experience Land Trust Receives $2.5 Million to purchase 1,200-Acre Star Creek Ranch Women in Business Hosts Annual Giving Luncheon – Nancy Austin & Call to Action for Second Harvest Food Bank Featured • Monte Vista Christian School Receives ‘Sing For Your Life’ Check Evening of Wine and Roses Raises $60,000 for Local Health Care • Mark Stone Named Assembly Committee Chair CHP Officer John Pedro’s Headstone Replaced • Alternative Christmas Shopping Options The Cobbler’s Tale Holiday Driving Hazards by Attorney Douglas R. Horn Kayak from Scratch – Cabinetmaker uses craft in building his own adventure By Noel Smith In Memoriam Watsonville Loses Community Leader Bob Culbertson • Jean Meryl Ramsden, former owner of Aptos Auto Parts, buried in Fresno

Pajaro Valley Family Shelter Charity Drive at Salesian Elementary and Junior High School alesian Elementary and Junior High School students have begun collecting gently used clothing and toys to share with the local Watsonville Pajaro Valley Family Shelter.

Each year the students are asked to go through their toys and clothing to give to mothers and children who are in need locally. The local Watsonville Target store also donates gift cards and Bittersweet Bistro in Aptos donates cookies for the children to decorate the night of the event.

Other families help donate cookie decorating supplies and a book for each child to open the night of the event.

The shelter always relies on the kindness and support of the community to make sure these children have a wonderful Christmas. If you are interested in helping with donations of clothing, toys or money please contact Pajaro Valley Shelter at annette@pvshelter.org.

••• Firefighters and Police Officers for Kids Toy Drive entral Fire Protection District, Capitola Police Department and the CHP will be participating in our annual holiday toy drive for December 2012. Toys will be collected for needy children and distributed to local families through the Santa Cruz County Chapter of The Salvation Army.

They will be staffing a collection booth at the Santa Cruz Toys ‘R’ Us store on December 14 - 16. Police and Fire Department personnel will be collecting

S

C

toys from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Friday, Dec 14 and from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 15/16. Additional collection points will be at the Aptos CHP office and all four stations of the Central Fire Protection District. All donated toys should be new and unwrapped.

For more information, contact Central Fire Protection District at 479-6843.

••• SCCRTC to get $5.3 Million for Rail Improvements SAN LUIS OBISPO — The California Transportation Commission has allocated $306 million to 44 projects that will help ease traffic congestion, improve safety, and support economic growth.

“From one end of the state to the other, transportation projects are providing jobs and improving roads, bridges, and transit for people and businesses in California,” said Caltrans Director Malcolm Dougherty.

The allocations include $114 million from Proposition 1B, a transportation bond approved by voters in 2006. In total, $14.7 billion in Proposition 1B funds have been distributed statewide.

The remaining $192 million in allocations came from assorted transportation accounts funded by state and federal dollars.

Among the projects that received funding was: $5.3 million to the Santa Cruz Regional Transportation Commission (SCCRTC) to make rail improvements from Davenport to Watsonville for existing freight and recreational rail service and to facilitate the implementation of new recreational passenger service.

••• “Briefs” > 6

Sports Wrap Mount Madonna Girls Volleyball Team Scores Top Academic Honor • Central Coast Section Announces 2012-2013 Fall Season Scholastic Championship Team Awards SCCAL All-League Football 2012 • Aptos High School Scoreboard Business Profile Getting to Know the Redwood Village in Aptos Arnie Rubenstein Construction and Handyman Services by Colleen Hughes • Aptos Yoga Goes From For-Profit to Non-Profit Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 26 & 27 Monthly Horoscope • Page 27 - Your December Horoscope - Annabel Burton, Astrologer©

18 19 24 28 30

Featured Columnists EarthTalk® – Eco-aware consumers now look for Bluesign when buying apparel Work in Progress by Camille Smith – They’re coming! They’re coming! …

They’re here!

The Book Bag by Robert Francis – Non-fiction holiday stocking stuffers…

A Message From Soon-To-Be 2nd District Supervisor Zach Friend Welcome to Sheriff’s Corner by Sgt. Paul Ramos SPCA Featured Pet • Page 25 – Truffle is a Real Treat

www.tpgonlinedaily.com

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 15th 2012 / 3

4 / December 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

CommunityNews

AHS’ Pughe nominated for Educator of the Year

C

ongratulations to Social Science teacher and department chair Peggy Pughe. Peggy’s name was presented by the AHS administration as the AHS Educator of the Year for California’s Region 5. Peggy was recently honored at a celebration with many of the high schools in the region represented.

Region 5 Educator of the Year nominees come together to be recognized and one nominee moves forward as the representative in a statewide ceremony. (Region 5 includes Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Benito and Santa Clara counties).

The Criteria for the nomination include:

Leadership Characteristics: Dedicated, innovative; exhibits professional collegiality; enthusiastic; proactive High School Change Agent: Knowledgeable advocate of high school reform in accordance with current educational trends and practices; shares knowledge with colleagues; incorporates State Frameworks and Standards, current research, and technology.

Exemplary Characteristics: Demonstrates/ supports powerful teaching and learning; demonstrates beyond the job responsibilities; acts as a role model; demonstrates ability to motivate students from diverse backgrounds; other unique abilities and/or contributions.

Past honorees for AHS include Reggie Roberts in 2010 and Bob Goeckermann in 2009.

Vivian Moutafian, a math teacher at Watsonville High School was recognized as this year’s Region 5 winner and will move on to the state level for Teacher of the Year.

Congratulations to both Vivian and Peggy. We are very proud of the examples you set every day both for your students and colleagues. I

Peggy Pughe

Body in Motion Pilates Hosts ‘Project Night Night’

B

ody in Motion Pilates is working to help children feel secure, cozy and loved during the holiday season by hosting a benefit for Project Night Night on Friday, Dec. 21 from 5:30-7:30p.m.

Guests are invited to participate by providing a $20 donation that will go toward Project Night Night, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to providing homeless children in need with a security tote that includes a stuffed animal, soft blanket and storybook. The event will consist of a special one-and-a-half hour Xtend Barre class followed by champagne and cupcakes. Donations are also happily accepted by those who are unable to participate in the workout.

The goal of Body In Motion’s Project Night Night benefit is to provide the gift of sweet dreams to children throughout the holiday season. Project Night Night, a Bay Area based nonprofit, is the leading provider of nighttime comforts for homeless children in the region. Studies demonstrate there are more homeless children in the United States than at any other time since the Great Depression. Because many homeless families are transient, living in shelters, in cars, hotels or staying with friends or family in the region’s most lowincome areas a high number of children are experiencing high levels of environmental stress factors which often lead to mental illness.

“During this holiday season when making gift lists is top priority for many people, we are committed to reminding our community that there are others that are not as fortunate as we are,” said Dominique Lesperance, owner of Body In Motion Pilates. “As a mother to a young toddler and longtime community member, Project Night Night speaks to me so dearly.”

Lesperance is making a point to give back this holiday season by lending her business of almost 15 years as an outlet to raise money for the kids benefitted by Project Night Night. Body In Motion Pilates’ event is slated for Friday, Dec. 21, 2012 at 783 Rio Del Mar Blvd. Suite 55, Aptos, Calif. 95003 from 5:30-7:30p.m. For additional details on the Body In Motion Pilates’ Project Night Night Benefit, please call (831) 685-1779 or email info@pilatescalifornia.com. Guests can also RSVP online. I ••• Body in Motion Pilates is a fully equipped Pilates and Xtend Barre studio located in Aptos, Calif. The studio offers group apparatus classes, Mat Pilates, Xtend Barre and private and semiprivate sessions. Additionally, Body in Motion Pilates offers Body Arts and Science International Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training Certification Program offering both Pilates mat and comprehensive teacher training. www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 15th 2012 / 5

APTOS TIMES

CommunityNews

publisher

Pregnant Mare Rescue, Inc. at Risk!

Patrice Edwards publisher’s assistant

Lindsay Nelson editor

Noel Smith

Short and simple: The water is too much!

contributing writers

Colleen Hughes, Petra Probert, Noel Smith, Noah Kaufman, Douglas R. Horn, Annabel Burton, Camille Smith, Robert Francis, Zach Friend, Paul Ramos layout

Michael Oppenheimer, Mike Lyon graphic artists

Mike Lyon, Michael Oppenheimer production coordinator

Sandra Gonzalez advertising sales

Don Beaumont, Sadie Wittkins, Jackie Hinds office coordinator

Cathe Race distribution

Bill Pooley, Jana Mears

Times Publishing Group, Inc. 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003

his last storm, combined with horses coming back to us has put us under tremendous pressure to make ends meet. Our hay bills have doubled, the economy continues to struggle… and we are at RISK of closing in 60 days! We have been helping Santa Cruz County horse owners for over six years!

PLEEZE put us in the hearts and minds of folks this holiday season. Any size donation would help!

Thank you Lynn Hummer • Founder/President ••• Pregnant Mare Rescue, Inc. Temporary Sanctuary for the Mare and Foal – A ‘No Kill’ Sanctuary • Our goal is to save as many pregnant mares from abuse, neglect and a trip to the Slaughterhouse.

• Our mission to provide a safe natural environment for mares to foal in peace, and to nurture and nurse their

A

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

CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE AT:

www.tpgonlinedaily.com mission statement We at the Times Publishing Group, Inc. are dedicated to providing a voice for the individuals and organizations in our community while highlighting the outstanding accomplishments of our local businesses. We seek to promote healthy family values through our coverage of youth activities, school news, senior events, community groups and entertainment.

young.

• Our intent to gentle the mares, imprint and gentle the foals, and prepare them for new loving homes.

We live by the Natural Horsemanship Philosophy of harmony, understanding and respecting the spirit of the animal, not

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world, indeed it’s the only thing that ever has.”

— Margaret Mead

“Briefs” from pg 3 Holiday Fund Drive Addresses Housing Issue t is estimated that over 95 million Americans are dealing with a housing issue of one kind or another and many of those are residents of Santa Cruz County.

This holiday fund drives focuses on housing by raising funds for five local nonprofits working on the issue.

It will help Habitat for Humanity Santa Cruz County build affordable homes for local families; help young adults transition out of foster care through the Santa Cruz Counseling Center’s Transitional Age Youth Program; provide consumer education and help for families dealing with foreclosure issues at the Watsonville Law Center; offer transitional family housing through Pajaro Valley Shelter Services; and, provide shelter to the most vulnerable through 180/180 Santa Cruz, led by the

I

6 / December 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Homeless Services Center.

The fund drive is a project of Community Foundation Santa Cruz County and the Good Times, with matching funds from the David & Lucile Packard Foundation and Santa Cruz County Bank.

The fund drive runs through January 17, 2013.

Learn more and give at cfscc.org/GTCommunityFund or call 831.662.2000.

••• Intensive Therapy Groups for survivors of Child Sexual Abuse urvivors Healing Center (SHC) is forming new eight-week intensive therapy groups for survivors of childhood sexual abuse starting in January.

SHC’s goals are to empower those victimized by sexual abuse through a heal-

S

intimidation, coercion and pain.

Our “Umbrella Policy of Protection” tracks each horse for life.

We feel it is the ONLY way to keep horses safe for life.

We encourage horse owners to love and keep their equine for life, just as you would your other pets.

Pregnant Mare Rescue, Inc., A not-forprofit organization registered as a 501(c)3 Public Charity in the State of California, Federal Tax ID Number: # 26-0484620 ••• For more information, visit www.pregnantmarerescue.org

ing process and to prevent sexual abuse of children and youth in our community.

SHC welcomes everyone into a safe and supportive healing environment.

We offer separate groups in English and Spanish for men, women, lesbian and bisexual women, mothers of survivors, parents of survivors, young adults (17-22), teens (14-16) and preteens (10-13) in Santa Cruz and Watsonville.

Goals of the therapy groups are to break isolation, develop healthy coping skills, reduce shame, increase self-esteem and build healthy boundaries. Healing is facilitated using group discussion, writing, meditation, expressive arts, meditation and guided imagery.

You are not alone. You are not to blame. Join a group of 6-7 individuals.

Services are offered on a sliding fee scale.

Call now to pre-register: (831) 423-7601.

Website: www.fsa-cc.org/survivors-healing-center I

CoverStory “AJHS” from pg 1 Determan said, “It’s very intense. It’s just point A to point B every day.”

Thankfully, he has a wonderful staff of educators who chaperone the 79 kids.

Barbara Meck, Diana Bailey and Julie Tully.

Determan spent 100’s of hours pinning down every detail with Parents, students and World Strides, which has been offering these traveling educational experiences since 1967.

“A hands on History lesson makes the trip so worthwhile,” Determan observed, “Everything is a teachable moment, even something as ordinary as eating at a restaurant.”

After a red-eye flight, they arrived in D.C. on the morning of Veterans Day, Sunday November 11. Once they arrived at their hotel (4 friends per room), they hit the ground running. Up at 6 a.m., breakfast at 7, and back to the hotel around 10:30 P.M. The days were long and the kids needed to be on the ball.

The students also experienced the war memorials of Viet Nam, The Korean War, WWII and the Holocaust Museum.

President Obama’s Veterans Day Memorial Speech was a favorite for many of the students. It’s a once in a lifetime experience to participate in a Memorial Ceremony with the President of the United States.

They visited the Smithsonian Natural History Museum where they saw the Hope Diamond and then went to the Air and Space Museum where they viewed The Fokker T-2 (the first plane to fly non-stop coast to coast across America). Seeing the Space Shuttle Discovery was pretty exciting as well. There was no getting out of D.C. without a view of the Pentagon.

The group made a stopover in Philadelphia to see the beginnings of American Government. First, George Washington’s house, then Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell and a tour of the home of Betsy Ross, credited with designing the first flag of the United States.

Arlington Cemetery

‘The Trip Was Amazing’ Noah Kaufmann, Aptos Junior High 8th grade student, writes about his experience

I

missed 5 days of school from the 10 of November to the 16 because I went on the Washington D.C. field trip. In my perspective, the trip was amazing. It was cool to see the things we are learning about in school and have been told about all of our lives. On this field trip, we went to several places and saw many things in D.C., Philadelphia and New York. These places are rich in history and show the work of our founding fathers.

On the first day we arrived in Washington D.C., we were met by our tour guides. My tour guide’s name was Neal. Neal is a Viet Nam Vet who served as a Marine. He took us to breakfast then to Arlington Cemetery. Over the next few days, I saw many memorials, the Declaration of Independence, the White House, the U.S. Capital and so much more. Washington D.C. was an amazing, history-filled place.

We were in Philadelphia for a day and saw Independence Hall, the place where the Declaration of Independence was signed. We saw the Liberty Bell and Betsy Ross’ house. We walked through a neighborhood that had been preserved through the 1700’s. People still lived in the houses too. The cobblestone streets were very narrow since they didn’t have cars back then. Philadelphia was an interesting place with tons of history. Our next stop was New York.

When we got to New York we said goodbye to our bus drivers. From then on, we would be taking the subway. We checked into our hotel and went to the very top of the Empire State Building. We then visited the amazing Times Square. The next day we met our New York Tour Guide and took a ferry out to an island near the Statue of Liberty. We couldn’t get onto the island to see the Statue because it was flooded with damage from Hurricane Sandy, but we got a good view of her. We

The last day of the trip was New York.

Alex Hughes, Max Lippert, Noah Kauffman and Evan Collins-Smith all agreed that “New York was our favorite place”. They went to Times Square, Central Park and the NBC Studios where they got to visit the set of Saturday Night Live and climbed their way to the top of the Empire State Building. After watching the Broadway Play Spiderman until 1 a.m., the kids were amazed that the city was still so busy. Mr. Determan added, “people always think of Las Vegas as the City that never sleeps.” The kids quickly realized that New York doesn’t sleep either.

Then there was the 9/11 Memorial.

That was a time in our History when these students were 2 years old. While they have heard so much about it all of these years, they never really understood the impact it had on America. They watched a video from a local New York News station that reported that day. Watching the planes crash into the towers, people jumping to their deaths, many running for their life’s covered in ash and soot.

They then visited the memorial site that listed all the names and ages of every victim.

The Iwo Jima Memorial

visited the 9/11 Memorial and ended the trip with a visit to Central Park.

On the way back, we got stuck in the airport for 2 1/2 hours due to rain in San Francisco. We got back to Aptos at 1 a.m. and we were all very tired.

Visiting Washington D.C. and Philadelphia was cool, but my favorite part of the trip was visiting New York. New York (especially Times Square) was amazing. The whole trip was very fun and something I am very happy to have been able to see. These places are places that everyone should visit at least once. I

LEFT: Assistant Principal Determan with chaperones/staff (from left): Barbara Meck, VP Determan, Diana Bailey and Julie Tully. • RIGHT: Four of the students who were roommates and “buddies,” keeping track of each other during the trip (from left): Noah Kaufmann, Evan Collins-Smith, Alex Hughes and Max Lippert Mr. Determan recalled four girls huddled together and a bit somber. What they saw would have a lasting impression. As they read the names and ages of the victims, one student said, “The youngest victim was three years old. She was our age then.”

When asked what his favorite part of the trip is, Mr. Determan responded, “My favorite part is the experience that the kids have. As an educator, there is

nothing better”.

He is already making plans for next year’s trip.

For these Aptos Junior High School students, this really was the trip of a lifetime. I ••• All trip pictures were taken by the students. Visit www.tpgonlinedaily.com to see more pictures from the trip.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 15th 2012 / 7

InMemoriam

Watsonville Loses Community Leader Bob Culbertson

H

is office at the Chrysler Dodge dealership in Watsonville is now empty. It was full of the memorabilia of a lifetime from a childhood in Delhi California, to WWII, to UC Berkeley, to his success selling cars, and of committing a lifetime of service to his community. His office door was always open to the world whether customer, employee or friend making a casual call. Bob Culbertson is finally retired…

The 90-year-old Culbertson was the managing partner for the past 52 years of Marty Franich Chrysler Jeep Dodge. He had been active in the Santa Cruz County American Red Cross, the Watsonville Host Lions, Boy Scouts and veterans groups. He even was honored by Detroit a few years ago as the first person to sell 1 million cars!

Bob was born April 24, 1922 on his Bob Culbertson parents farm near Delhi California. He graduated from Modesto JC and transferred to UC Berkeley with a major in Food Chemistry.

Then came WWII. Culbertson was a Naval officer during World War II, serving in both Europe and the Pacific and commanding his own ship transporting Japanese Prisoners back to Japan.

After graduating from UC in 1947, he moved to Watsonville to manage the downtown Montgomery Ward store.

When the store wanted to give him a promotion and move him to Petaluma, Culbertson contacted Marty Franich who ran the Ford Dealership next door to the store. He quit to work for Marty in the auto dealership so he didn’t have to leave Watsonville and became a fixture in the community. I

Bob’s office; a museum of his life’s interests and accomplishments

Jean Meryl Ramsden, former owner of Aptos Auto Parts, buried with honors

J

ean was born on May 23, 1927, in Visalia, California, to Harry George and Freda May Ramsden. His older brother was Donald and his younger brother was Gerald (Jerry).

He graduated from Fresno High School in 1945 and immediately joined the U.S. Marine Corps. After training in Quantico, Virginia, he was sent to Tangiers, Morocco, North Africa, for eight years, where he served with the American Legion.

While in Tangiers, he became acquainted with Adrian Conan Doyle, son of Sherlock Holmes author Sir Arthur

Jean attended U.C. Berkeley Conan Doyle. Mr. Conan Doyle and later graduated from Fresno wrote of Jean in his book, Heaven State College with a degree in Has Claws, “In company with Business Administration in 1960.

Jean Ramsden, a young Marine Following college, he and his attached to the American dad built an A-frame Legation and incidentally a very cabin/home in Aptos, where he promising archaeologist, we made his home the remainder of crossed Gibraltar from where we his life. were to sail for Mombasa.”

Jean especially enjoyed the It was during one such Jean Ramsden archaeological expedition that Jean fell friendships he made through his business down a well shaft severely injuring his Aptos Auto Parts in Aptos Village, through right arm. He was sent stateside for his his membership in the Veterans of Foreign recovery and was later retired from active Wars and E Clampus Vitus. He loved to go camping, and was an avid fisherman. duty with the Marines.

8 / December 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Jean leaves a daughter Cheryl Stockird and companion John Aguirre of El Cerrito, a son Bruce Ramsden and his wife Janet, and granddaughters Shannon and Kylie Ramsden, all of Clovis. Military graveside honors were held on Friday, November 23, at Fresno Memorial Gardens.

A memorial gathering for Jean Meryl Ramsden will be held at Pacific Garden Chapel, Saturday December 15 at 2 p.m. for his many friends in the Santa Cruz area.

Donations in his name are to be made to the Disabled Veterans of America (dav.org) I

CommunityNews

Land Trust Receives $2.5 Million Money will go to purchase 1,200 Acre Star Creek Ranch SANTA CRUZ — The state Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) has awarded the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County $2.5 million to buy the 1,200-acre Star Creek Ranch in the hills east of Watsonville. The acquisition is expected to be completed by the end of the year and is the Land Trust’s first major acquisition in the 24,000-acre Pajaro Hills, which separate Santa Cruz County from southern Santa Clara County.

“These hills are a natural greenbelt between Santa Cruz County and the urban growth spreading down Highway 101,” said Land Trust Executive Director, Terry Corwin. “Our vision for the future of the Star Creek includes an eventual park. We plan to work with our partners to protect additional land in the Pajaro Hills and make critical connections between properties for both humans and wildlife,” said Corwin.

Corwin said the Land Trust would use $1.47 million from its $13.5 million Capital Campaign to help fund the acquisition and stewardship of the property, which will include a donation from the landowners, Pete Pulis and Steve Miller.

In the past 18 months, the Land Trust has raised $12.7 million to protect 10,000 acres. Land Trust President Robert Stephens said the Land Trust was trying to raise the final $800,000 by the end of the year.

Additional funding for the project also came through the Living Landscape Initiative Challenge Grant Program of Resources Legacy Fund, which is funded by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation.

Wildlife Habitat — Star Creek Ranch is a critical wildlife linkage between the Santa Cruz Mountains to the north and the Gabilan and Diablo ranges to the south

and east. Along the 2.5 miles of Pescadero Creek and the canyon it forms along with the hills that surround it forms a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. Deer, bobcats, wild turkeys, mountain lions, hawks, eagles, steelhead, and even threatened species like the Southwestern pond turtle have all been seen on the ranch. Also roughly, a third of the property is redwood forest. The Land Trust plans to sustainably harvest redwoods, as it has done for 36 years at its 400-acre Byrne-Milliron Forest outside Corralitos.

Water Resources — More than six creeks and springs originate on the property. As part of the greater Pajaro Valley watershed, Pescadero Creek drains a watershed as big as the Aptos Creek watershed. It runs year-round and already serves as a critical steelhead spawning and rearing habitat. We anticipate that restoration and stewardship work will increase the steelhead population. The creek flows into the Pajaro River and the property has numerous streams and springs – all of which contribute to the flow of quality water into the Pajaro Valley and its overdrafted aquifer.

As part of its 10,000 Acres Campaign, the Land Trust has already protected an apple orchard in the Pajaro Valley, 18 acres of rare Sand Parkland, and with its Living Landscape Initiative partners, the Land Trust helped protect the 8,500-acre CEMEX Redwoods Forest in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

To see photos and maps of the 10,000 acres the Land Trust plans to protect by the end of the year visit: www.LandTrustSantaCruz.org. I ••• Formed in 1978 by local residents concerned about protecting the lands that make

Santa Cruz County special, the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County has protected more than 11,850 acres by working with willing landowners and conservation partners. The trust protects both working lands, like farms and timberland, and natural lands with high conservation value – thus protecting water supplies,

wildlife habitats and open space.

The Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) primary responsibilities are to select, authorize and allocate funds for the purchase of land and waters suitable for recreation purposes and the preservation, protection and restoration of wildlife habitat.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 15th 2012 / 9

CommunityNews

Women in Business Hosts Annual Giving Luncheon Nancy Austin & Call to Action for Second Harvest Food Bank Featured

T

he Women in Business community of the Santa Cruz Chamber of Commerce will host their annual Holiday Giving Luncheon on Thursday, December 13 at the Cocoanut Grove.

This year’s holiday luncheon will feature return guest, Nancy Austin, coauthor of “Passion for Excellence.”

Austin will present on the topic of Leadership Untamed. “Leadership, a clever friend once observed, is like love

and driving,” says Austin. “You can’t bear to think you could be bad at it.” Austin was a smash hit at the Women in Business 2010 Leadership Forum.

Nancy Austin The annual giving luncheon will focus on a call to

action benefiting Second Harvest Food Bank. The Women in Business Community asks that guests set aside a dollar a day until the event to donate to benefit those in need of food assistance in Santa Cruz County.

The Student of the Quarter, Kayla Zoliniak will also be recognized for her achievements in academics and community service.

Annual Women in Business Sponsors include: Dominican Hospital,

Physicians Medical Group, and Dignity Health Medical Group, Dominican. The Women in Business Table Sponsor is Chase Bank. Annual Media Sponsors are 92.7 KTOM, 105.1 K-OCEAN, and 102.5 KDON. The cost to attend is $37 for Chamber Members and $50 for non-members. Preregistration by December 11 is required. I ••• To register visit: www.santacruz chamber.org

Monte Vista Christian School Receives ‘Sing For Your Life’ Check

S

tudents in the Vocal Arts program at Monte Vista Christian School were pleased to receive a check for $1,980 from the Gold Standard Barbershop Chorus on December 3 because of the schools’ participation in the 10th Annual “Sing For Your Life” concert that was held on November 4 at the Santa Cruz Civic

Auditorium. According to Gold Standard representative Dale Summer, $12,075 in proceeds from the concert were distributed to ten local schools this year.

The GSBC is the Santa Cruz chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS). In addition to the benefit concert, GSBC sends quartets into the county’s high schools to

demonstrate barbershop music, one of America’s indigenous music forms. New members are welcome. The group’s website is www.scbarbershop.org.

Dr. David Anthony Dehner, Monte Vista’s vocal arts director, said, “The ‘Sing For Your Life’ concert provides important support to our program. It is a great encouragement to our students to be recognized this way, and we are grateful for what the Gold Standard Chorus is doing in

our community to support music in the local schools.”

Monte Vista Christian School offers multiple Performing Arts courses in the middle and high school. The award-winning Vocal Arts program includes Choir, Chamber Choir, Chorale, Chorus, Chapel Worship, Vocal Technique and AP Music Theory. More information about the MVCS program is available at www.mvcs.org/ performingarts. I

Dr. David Anthony Dehner, vocal arts director at Monte Vista Christian School, accepts a check from Gold Standard Chorus president Nick Roberto, with Dean of Education Steve Woods and members of the Chorale.

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

CommunityNews

Evening of Wine and Roses Raises $60,000 for Local Health Care

T

he Pajaro Valley Community Health Trust announced its 29th Annual “Evening of Wine and Roses,” event held on Friday, November 2, 2012, raised more than $60,000 to support health care needs in the Pajaro Valley.

Co-sponsored by the Santa Cruz Mountains Winegrowers Association, the Evening of Wine and Roses event attracted more than 900 guests who enjoyed the area’s best wines, hors d’oeuvres and locally grown roses. A live and silent auction offered guests an opportunity to bid on trips, gourmet dinners, gifts, collectibles and valuable art and jewelry.

As always, the Wine and Roses event featured distinguished wines from 22 Santa Cruz Mountains wineries (See list below), as well as the offerings of a gourmet hors d’oeuvres buffet provided by local volunteer cooks and selected area restaurants and caterers (See list below).

Beautiful roses and other flowers cultivated in the Pajaro Valley were displayed throughout the evening and sold by the dozen.

Event proceeds will be used by the Health Trust Board of Directors to provide grant funding to nonprofit agencies serving low-income residents of the Pajaro Valley.

“We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to the participating wineries, restaurants, rose growers, volunteers, local business sponsors and community residents who’ve shown their generous support over so many years,“ says Kathleen King, Health Trust CEO. The Evening of Wine and Roses is the major special event fundraiser of the Pajaro Valley Community Health Trust. The Trust is a nonprofit 501 (c) 3 public benefit health care foundation.

The mission of the Trust is to improve the quality of life and health for all the people of the Pajaro Valley. The Trust’s funding priority areas include various health care initiatives: Diabetes and Contributing Factors; Oral Health prevention and access; Health Professions; and Access to Care. The Trust emphasizes three population groups with its health care funding and advocacy efforts, including: farm workers and their families, low-income underserved individuals, and youth, ages 0-21. Using event proceeds and other funds, the Trust provides grants to local nonprofit organizations and supports other activities that address health care needs in its current priority areas.

In addition to grant making, the Trust pursues a number of strategic activities to achieve its mission, including county-wide and regional health planning efforts, convening around area health care issues,

working with other organizations to leverage funding for the Pajaro Valley, health advocacy and in-kind grant making through the donation of conference space and nonprofit administrative services.

For more information about the Pajaro Valley Community Health Trust, contact the Trust staff at (831) 761-5639.

Restaurants/Caterers/Specialty Beverages: Café Cruz • Café Ella • Cilantro’s Mexican Restaurant • Corralitos Meat & Sausage Co. • Catering

by D’La Colmena • Freedom Bakery & Confections • Freedom Meat Lockers • Gayle’s Bakery & Rosticceria • Imura Japanese Restaurant • Kampf Fire BBQ & Catering • M & M Party Rentals • Monterey Bay Caterers • Nob Hill / Raley’s Foods • S. Martinelli & Co. • Panda Inn Restaurant • Seabright Brewery • The Turkey Boat Restaurant • Severino’s Bar & Grill • Watsonville Hospital Food Services Participating Wineries: Bargetto Winery • Burrell School Vineyards • Cooper-Garrod Estate Vineyards • Equinox Champagne Cellars & Winery • Lightheart Cellars • Martin Ranch Winery • Mica Cellars • MJA Vineyards • Natal Vineyards • Nicholson Vineyards • Odonata Wines • Pelican Ranch Winery • River Run Vintners • Roudon-Smith Winery • Silver Mountain Vineyards • Sones Cellars • Soquel Vineyards • Storrs Winery • Trout Gulch Vineyards • Thomas Fogarty Winery & Vineyards • Vino Tabi Winery • Zayante Vineyards I

A Little Center With

A Lot of Class!

Plenty of Free Customer Parking

Aptos Village Skin & Body Care

Yoga Within Exploring the mind-body connection 687-0818

A skin care center 688-4541

Joy of Movement Pilates & Gyrotonic®

Wilder Associates Inc.

More zest for life

Property Management Specialist

Mark Stone Named Assembly Committee Chair SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Mark Stone (D-Santa Cruz) has been named Chair of the Assembly Human Services Committee. The committee considers legislation regarding child welfare, adult foster care, CalWORKS, and developmental disability services.

“I’m pleased to continue my work to protect the most vulnerable Californians by serving as Chair of the Human Services Mark Stone Committee,” said Stone. “I look forward to focusing on legislation to improve the lives of California’s children, elderly, and disabled citizens.”

Stone’s appointment builds upon his previous work as a champion for disadvantaged children. As a Santa Cruz County Supervisor, Stone served on the Santa Cruz County First 5 Commission and the Santa Cruz County Child Welfare System Improvement Plan Steering Committee. During that time, he led an overhaul of the County’s child welfare system, allowing disenfranchised youth of Santa Cruz County to have a voice in their future.

Stone was sworn in to represent the 29th Assembly District on December 3. His district includes includes the communities of Monterey, Marina, Pacific Grove, Sand City, Seaside, Capitola, Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley and a portion of San Jose. I

688-8077

662-0291

Warmboard Radiant Subfloor

Salon Aptos Hair and nails for a good look

Simply smarter radiant heat

688-8804

685-9275

Village Liquors For all your beverage needs 688-5691

Epicenter Cycling Trek bicycles for all types of riders 662-8100

Dentistry for Animals Dr. Judy Force, DVM 768-7148

APTOS

STATION

SELECT SHOPPING / APTOS VILLAGE www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 15th 2012 / 11

CommunityNews

CHP Officer John Pedro’s Headstone Replaced

O

fficer Pedro’s headstone has been replaced through the generosity and kindness of Randy and Janet Krasson at Santa Cruz Memorial and Bob Mattos of Bras and Mattos Monument in Hayward.

Captain Matt Olson extends gratitude on behalf of the entire Santa Cruz Area CHP: “The thoughtfulness and John Pedro compassion shown to us through this ordeal by individual members of the Santa Cruz community, as well

as the Krassons and Mr. Mattos has been genuinely heartening.”

Between the hours of 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 6 and 8 a.m. on Sunday, October 7, the headstone marking CHP Officer John Pedro’s final resting place was stolen from the Santa Cruz Memorial Cemetery on Paul Sweet Road. Officer Pedro, a Watsonville native, served the community of Santa Cruz County from 1996 until his End of Watch on June 2, 2002.

He was a 13-year veteran of the California Highway Patrol.

Following Officer Pedro’s Line of Duty Death, a number of vandalisms have occurred to memorials bearing his name.

Since its inception in 1929, the CHP has lost 223 uniformed members in line-of-duty deaths.

Santa Cruz Area CHP Commander, Captain Matt Olson has committed to providing any support necessary in a search for the suspect. “Whatever would drive a person to do such a cruel act is not understandable or acceptable. This is cruelty to John’s family: His wife, daughter, mother, and siblings and will not be tolerated.”

CHP is working with the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Department to identify

the person or persons responsible and to bring them to justice.

Since its inception in 1929, the CHP has lost 223 uniformed members in line-of-duty deaths. Officer Pedro’s sacrifice was one of three such sacrifices made by uniformed members of the California Highway Patrol assigned to Santa Cruz County.

We will never forget Officer John Pedro. I

Alternative Christmas Shopping Options

A

ptos Community United Methodist Church announces that each Sunday morning from now through December 23 it will provide Alternative Christmas shopping for all interested people. Through the Alternative Christmas program you are provided with an opportunity to give presents that give on giving. It’s very simple. You donate to a charity in honor or in memory of a loved one, and you receive a card that states that a donation has been made in honor or in memory of that person. Then you give that card as your Christmas present to a loved one.

Aptos CUMC has made cards for you to give and will forward all donations to the named charities. This year the church is offering seven charities as Alternative Christmas opportunities. They are the following: Court Appointed Special Advocates of Santa Cruz County (CASA): CASA provides trained volunteers who serve as advocates for foster children in Santa Cruz County. An Alternative Christmas gift will support the training and activities of CASA volunteers who go with the child to court and serve as a friend and support for that child.

Communities Organized for Relational Power in Action (COPA): COPA is an organization of churches, civic groups and schools who are uniting to make a positive difference in selected areas such as unfair home foreclosures, inadequate school facilities and encouraging lower income housing. An Alternative Christmas gift will support advocacy efforts in these areas.

Habitat for Humanity: Habitat for Humanity builds homes in the United States and abroad for families who cannot

12 / December 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

afford to purchase homes on their own.

Giving an Alternative Christmas present for Habitat for Humanity will support the local Santa Cruz program.

Heifer International: Heifer International helps poor families improve their earnings by providing them with an animal to work the land or give milk, a chicken or duck flock, or other types of support. An Alternative Christmas gift to Heifer International is a great gift for a child who already has plenty.

Missionary Katherine Parker: Aptos CUMC has entered into a covenant with United Methodist missionary Katherine Parker to support her work in Cambodia.

Giving an Alternative Christmas present in support of Katherine Parker is providing support for people in an impoverished country.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Aptos CUMC provides ongoing support for the local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). All monies given through Alternative Christmas are used to support programs to assist mentally ill persons and their families.

Second Harvest Food Bank: Giving money to the Second Harvest Food Bank is the most effective and efficient way of eliminating hunger. Your Alternative Christmas gift to Second Harvest will provide meals to families and individuals who otherwise will go hungry. I

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 15th 2012 / 13

CommunityNews

The Cobbler’s Tale B

ased on a short story by Leo Tolstoy – Once upon a time there was a cobbler, a good and honorable man. One Christmas Eve he dreamed that the next day, on Christmas, Christ was coming to

his humble shop. Christmas morning he got up early and went to the woods to gather green boughs to decorate his shop for so great a Guest. He laid out a fine woolen cape and some blankets to give to

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

the Lord. He lit a fire and set out bread and meat, and put the kettle on to boil.

All morning he waited, then a feeble old man came to his door asking to rest.

The cobbler invited him in to sit and rest by the fire where he gave the old man hot tea and cakes. When he left, the cobbler gave him a package of his best bread and meat.

The day became afternoon. He saw a wounded soldier; his feet wrapped in bloody rags, limping slowly down the street. The cobbler called and invited him into his shop. He bathed the soldier’s feet, wrapping them in clean cloth. He then gave the grateful soldier the sturdiest shoes in the shop. When the soldier left, there was a new strength in his step.

As evening approached, the cobbler became discouraged. Just then a young woman walked by shivering and crying, carrying a baby in her arms. The cobbler called to her asking what was wrong.

“Oh, sir,” she said, “My husband died of the fever so I couldn’t pay the rent. The landlord put us out of our home and I’m traveling to the next town to stay with my husband’s parents. But it’s so far, I’m so hungry, and my baby is so cold.”

The cobbler brought her in to share his dinner with her. He took the woolen cape and the blankets he had set aside for the Christ and gave them to the woman to keep her and the baby warm. Then, he hitched up his horse and cart and drove the woman to the next town.

It was very late and Christmas was over when he finally got home. Sure that he had missed the Christ he cried out, “Why, Lord? Why did you not come? Was I so unworthy?”

He sank to his knees in tears. Then it seemed he heard a Voice, sweeter than any other: “My child, I kept my word. Three times I visited you and three times you showed your love for Me. I was the old man; I was the poor soldier; I was the cold and hungry woman and her baby. You warmed Me at your fire. You bandaged My wounded feet. You fed Me and clothed Me. Did I not say, ‘Whatsoever you do to the least of My brethren, you do it to Me.’” Merry Christmas I

SportsWrap

Mount Madonna Girls Volleyball Team Scores Top Academic Honor

M

ount Madonna School’s girls varsity volleyball team has received the Central Coast Section (CCS) highest academic honor by the CIF: “201213 Fall Season Scholastic Championship Team Award with the best GPAs in CCS.” “Academic excellence, creative selfexpression and positive character development are the three pillars of Mount Madonna School,” comments Sidd McDonald, MMS Athletic Director. “We are very proud that our girls varsity volleyball team has been selected as having the highest GPA for varsity volleyball in the Section. The award is reflective of the emphasis that our school places upon academic achievement.”

The CCS Board of Managers instituted

these awards in 1985 as a way to recognize teams with the highest collective gradepoint average in their respective sport during that season of competition.

The Mount Madonna team’s collective GPA is 3.876. Team members are: Alyssa Feskanin, Lexi Julien, Tyler Viglizzo, and Zoe Kelly, 10th grade; Jenny Turk, Preethi Balagani, Ruby Nink, and Talia Speaker, 11th grade; and Aimee Hopkins and Sanika Lakka, 12th grade.

This is the eighth time a Mount Madonna School volleyball team has earned the distinction; the girls varsity team also received the award in 2007-08; and the boys varsity team received it in 1999-00, 2000-01, 2001-02, 2004-05, 2006-07, and 2007-08. I

The Mount Madonna varsity volleyball team (from left): Tyler Viglizzo, Alyssa Feskanin, Preethi Balagani, Zoe Kelly, Talia Speaker, Ruby Nink, Jenny Turk, Sanika Lakka, Aimee Hopkins, Lexi Julien and Coach P.K. McDonald.

Central Coast Section Announces 2012-2013 Fall Season Scholastic Championship Team Awards

T

he Central Coast Section of the California Interscholastic Federation is proud to announce the recipients of the 2012-2013 Fall Season Scholastic Championship Team Awards listed below. These awards, instituted by the CCS Board of Managers in 1985, recognize the top five Varsity teams, from each Central Coast Section sport, with the highest collective Grade Point Average of all teams competing in

16 / December 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

that sport during that season of competition.

The student-athletes involved have achieved distinction in the classroom, and at the same time, have committed themselves to participation in interscholastic athletics. Their academic performance is yet another indication that such athletic participation enhances classroom activities.

“CCS Awards” > 23

FeaturedColumnist

Eco-aware consumers now look for Bluesign when buying apparel Dear EarthTalk: What is the “Bluesign” standard for textiles?

Which if any well known manufacturers are embracing it?

— Karin Romano, Bristol, CT

B

luesign is an emerging standard for environmental health and safety in the manufacturing of textiles.

The Switzerland-based organization, officially known as Bluesign Technologies AG, provides independent auditing of textile mills, examining manufacturing processes from raw materials and energy inputs to water and air emissions outputs. Each component is assessed based on its ecotoxicological impact.

Bluesign ranks its audit findings in order of concern, and suggests ways to reduce consumption while recommending alternatives to harmful

chemicals or processes where applicable. Textile mills that commit to verifiably adopting Bluesign’s recommendations can become certified “System Partners” and attract business from a wide range of brands and retailers around the world looking for greener vendors.

Eco-aware consumers can feel confident purchasing clothing items with the Bluesign label that they are buying the most environmentally friendly, socially conscious version of the jacket, shirt, sweater, pants, hat or gloves in question.

Given the push for greener products of every kind, Bluesign has gained serious

traction in the last few years among some of the leading brands in the outdoor clothing and gear business.

Patagonia was Bluesign’s first “brand” member and has been supportive of the program since its inception in 2000. While only 16 percent of the products in its 2012 line contain Bluesignapproved fabrics, the company has set a goal with its suppliers to have all Patagonia fabrics adhere to the standard by 2015.

The North Face is a newer partner for Bluesign, but no less committed: The company has been going gangbusters for the standard since 2010, and offers several clothing items made with at least 90 percent Bluesign-approved fabrics. Over the two years it has been converting its supply chain over to Bluesign-approved vendors, The North Face has saved 85 Olympic swimming pools worth of water, 38 tanker trucks worth of chemicals, and carbon emissions similar to taking some 1,100 cars off the road for a year.

Another leading outdoor clothing manufacturer embracing Bluesign is Norway’s Helly Hansen. In its 2012 line, more than 100 of Helly Hansen’s 500 products contain fabrics that meet the Bluesign standard; that number is expected to increase by 50 percent in 2013. Helly Hansen would go fully

Bluesign except that some of its specialty products that need to be flame retardant do not meet the standard. The company is optimistic, however, that textile makers can solve that problem—and then it can offer a 100 percent Bluesignapproved product line. Some of the other big outdoor brands that have teamed up with Bluesign include REI and Canada’s Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC).

Whether Bluesign catches on more widely in this dog-eat-dog, economically stressed business climate remains to be seen. “Earning Bluesign approval costs mills and suppliers time and money,” reports MEC. “They have to be convinced they’ll get a return on their investment in the form of increased demand for their products from manufacturers like MEC and ultimately from consumers.” I ••• Contacts: Bluesign Technologies, www.bluesign.com; Patagonia, www.patagonia.com; The North Face, www.thenorthface.com; Helly Hansen, www.hellyhansen.com; REI, www.rei.com; MEC, www.mec.ca.

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.

Photo Credit: Bluesign

Clothing items with the Bluesign label tell customers that they getting the most green friendly, socially conscious garments on the market.

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

FeaturedColumnist

They’re coming! They’re coming! … They’re here!

By Camille Smith

T

he Holidays. Family gatherings. Gift giving. Travel.

Regardless of what this season means to you, whether you are looking forward to it or pulling up the cushions for coin so you can get-away to Bali, chances are you’ll experience some level of stress.

Perhaps just reading these words “family gatherings” stressed you out a little. If I added “The Mall” to the list, I’m betting “a little” would be replaced by “a lot”!

So we have a baseline for this conversation: we can’t avoid stress. It comes with the territory called being human. Stress can be a constructive response to life’s obstacles. But stress is meant to be short-lived.

It’s meant to be followed immediately by a

period of relaxation and recovery. It’s when the stressful state is prolonged, when we bottle up and hold onto tense energy, that stress becomes draining and destructive.

So, if we can’t avoid it, what is the point of even talking about it? The point is to be self-aware able to self-correct our behavior so we don’t wind up as extras in our own version of “The Walking Dead.”

(I’ve been wondering why people watch that show. Maybe they watch it to say, see, “I’m not that bad, so back off!”)

Ten Ways to Reduce Stress (before, during and after) the Holidays 1. Get enough sleep. Being rested will serve you much more than having everything perfectly done.

2. Exercise. Go outside if you can and take a walk. We all open up when we’re walking, so if you want to have a heart-to-heart with someone, try doing it on the move. (PS: Wait until after the holiday to begin your IronWoman/Man training.)

3. Laugh. Play games for fun like Pictionary or Catch Phrase (not Monopoly; it’s too competitive and finance-based.)

4. Don’t over eat. It’s tempting, and we don’t feel good whenever we overdo.

Too much sugar stresses our bodies.

5. Don’t over drink. It’s tempting, and we can say things we don’t mean when we’re sloshed. Too much alcohol stresses our bodies.

6.

Don’t push other people’s buttons.

A tried-and-true holiday stress-buster.

Just because you can get someone’s goat, don’t.

A personalized version of the Serenity Prayer by Making them react or Julia Goralka. Read her zany tips: A Christmas lose it says more recipe for coping with holiday stress. about you than them. accept to serenity the me grant God, 7. Do apologize. the relatives I cannot change, If you misstep, apologize immetomorstores the face to courage The diately. They did row for everything I forgot today, notice, even though it looks And the wisdom to remember that this like they didn’t. will all be over with soon. Amen.

That you noticed is all the evidence you need.

8.

Make s p e c i f i c requests for support. Don’t hint. I know

you wish they would just do it without you asking them. Get over that.

Let people know you need them to pitch in. Let them know you count on them. Appreciate them for doing so.

9. Be sensitive, not sucked in. One person’s holiday joy is another’s holiday headache. This season can be a time of joy, delight, appreciation and love. It can also be a time of sadness, disappointment and resentment. Let people have their own experience, don’t try and make them do the holidays like you do. Listen, be compassionate, and let them be. You do not need to fix them. You can ask that they self-manage and be responsible for how they

are showing up and interacting with others.

10. Watch my video: Bright Side of Burn Out: How to recognize & fix it. It’s FREE at www.wipcoaching.com/thebrightside-of-burnout/ enter code: NOBURNOUT. You’ll learn four steps that will help you reduce the flames and be more of your wonderful self.

Regardless of where your head and heart are at regarding the fast-approaching holidays, whether you are alone during this season or with others, with a family of origin or a family of choice, I invite you to make this is a season in which you and I expand our capacity to be kind, awake and whole human beings. That’s a season worth greeting. I

FEELING FRAZZLED? WANT TO REDUCE STRESS? Watch Camille’s fun, 4-step video FREE “The Bright Side of Burnout: How to Recognize and Fix It!” (Value $29.99)

Why Free? Because you have more important things to do than burn out!

Go to www.wipcoaching.com/the-brightside-of-burnout, click “Get Video Now” Enter the code: NOBURNOUT. You’ll also get a Learner’s Guide, summary page and a transcript.

Want more support? Special discount for private coaching call with Camille available when you’ve signed up. Click on http://alturl.com/pd3xg

Spread the word ... and the love. It’s FREE!

Questions? Call Camille, 831-685-1480 www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 15th 2012 / 19

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

BusinessProfile

Getting to know the

REDWOOD VILLAGE IN APTOS R

edwood Village was founded in 1929 by William Parker on the former site of Spreckels’ stables and alongside the Watsonville to Santa Cruz highway. This was for many coming to the coast, their first close-up of redwoods. The redwood grove was thinned and the timber milled to construct cottages for vacationers. In 1974, the visitor cottages were converted to shops and businesses.

Go by and check out what they’ve got going on in the Redwood Village these days! With all of the cottages now full, there is something for everyone’s Mind, Body and Spirit!

The Palm Deli (in the center of the village): Open 7 days a week, Serving Breakfast all day starting at 7am with six different kinds of breakfast burritos, bagels, smoothies and breakfast sandwiches.

Green salads, unique deli salads, flavorful soups, mouthwatering hot and cold sandwiches, chips, snacks, a plethora of drinks, milkshakes and smoothies, ice-cold beer and a Beautiful Wine Selection too! This a great place to get your Holiday Gift Cards and/or Gift Baskets.

Custom Catering and Monthly Wine Tastings as well. Try the Taco Bar Take Out, easy and fantastic -$8.50 per person Phone # 688-Deli (3354). For a copy of the menu, visit them at www.ThePalmDeli.com Twig & Petal: A fresh flower and gift shop that is family owned and run.

Handmade bouquets and our famous “Posies to Go” are a customer favorite! We do just about any flower need including weddings, banquets, table arrangements and proms. Stop by in this quaint and historic spot called Redwood Village. Twig & Petal 9099 Soquel Dr # 3 Aptos is open 10 a.m. -5 p.m. Monday thru Saturday. Winter hours of 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday thru Saturday starting in 2013. Website: www.facebook.com/pages/Twig-andPetal/211006118929172 The Art Factory: Yvette founded the studio in the Spring of 2009 providing a

Photo Credit: Michael Oppenheimer

Redwood Village business owners and employees gather on the wooden bridge entering the center.

Back Row from left: Brandon Southall, Yvette Contours, Tammy Polishchuck, Shakti Wilson, Helen Vajretti, Madhu Brodkey, Judy Verduzco, Andy Martin and Jill Wilhelm. Front row from left: Lidia Avelar, Kristin Southall, Jenny Murphy, Ericka Glaum, Joanie Townsend, Terry Mackay, Jim Mackay and Patty Diaz. studio workspace for students of all ages and designing her classes to further students’ crea t i v e expression, w h i l e allowing them to develop technique and experiment within a variety of mediums. Classes offered are: Pre-K Art, Home School Art & Science, After School Studio Art, Drawing and Girls Nights Out every Friday night. Events offered: Birthday Parties, Creative Showers, Art parties, Crafternoons, Summer & Winter Art Camps for children ages 4 through 12.

To Contact Yvette: Email yvettesmail@gmail.com, Tel # : 831-688-8862, Website: artfactorystudios.com A Room of Her Own: Is all about providing you with what you deserve - top of the line skin care and makeup, unique jewelry and accessories, beautiful products for you and your friends with every intention of providing you quality, value and attention to the details. Service hours are by

appointment only, Tuesday through Saturday. To schedule an appointment, call 831-687-0591. Retail Store Hours: Thursday through Saturday 10-5. Closed Sunday and Monday. A Room of Her Own, 9099 Soquel Dr. Bungalow # 4 Aptos, 831-6870591. Website: www.aroomofherown.com Moxie Salon & Spa: We invite you to visit our Full Service Salon in the Redwood Village. Moxie Salon has chosen to be in two beautiful cottages that are nestled in a grove of majestic Redwood trees with views of our Aptos Creek. This is a must see Salon. Our Menu for Moxie includes hair, manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing and massage. The Moxie Team can be reached @ 831-6628068. The Salon is open Tuesday through Saturday, so it’s time to make your appointment or come by and pick up a Gift Certificate for that special someone. Check us out on Facebook @ Moxie Salon of Aptos. Address 9099 Soquel Drive, Cottages 9 and 10. Tel # : 831-662-8068. See you soon!

Pacific Pilates and Physical Therapy: Located off the Rio Del Mar exit in Aptos.

An intimate, private studio offering a peaceful setting to address any muscu-

lo/skeletal issue in a safe environment.

Whether you are recovering from an injury, dealing with chronic pain, or want to improve your strength and flexibility, Pacific Pilates is a great place to start 2013 with a bang. All sessions are one on one with a licensed Physical Therapist. Partial reimbursement by your insura n c e .

Please consult your plan or call with questions. Contact Jenny Murphy Pacific Pilates and Physical Therapy for an appointment at 9099 Soquel Dr Cottage 16 Aptos, or for that Holiday gift certificate. Tel # : (831) 331-1731, Email: pacific.pilates@yahoo.com. Website: pacificpilatesnow.com Feng Shui Reflections: Feng Shui incorporates a vast number of topics designed to bring balance and harmony into our lives. Madhu M. Brodkey, M.F.S., founded Feng Shui Reflections in 1997.

She is a Black Tantric Buddhist (BTB) Master Feng Shui Consultant & Teacher who combines this expertise with over 30 years of practice in healing arts and design to harmonize and balance the Qi (vital energy) of an environment and its’ occupants. She seeks Solutions For Positive Change for all her clients. Feng Shui Reflections: 9099 Soquel Dr. # 5, Aptos. Tel # : 722-3669, Website: fengshuireflections.com

With the Holidays upon us, it’s time to get that special Christmas gift that will make you and the person receiving it very special indeed!

Christmas Gift Certificates are available and all businesses will be OPEN from now until Christmas. It’s time to visit • The Palm Deli • Twig and Petal • The Art Factory • A Room of Her Own • Moxie Salon and Spa • Pacific Pilates • Feng Shui Reflections I ••• Address for the Redwood Village Cottages is 9099 Soquel Drive in Aptos just west of the Rio Del Mar, Soquel Drive intersection.

Misleading because of the bridge but you need to enter the village on Valencia (at Surf City Coffee) or Monroe Ave (where the Goodwill Drop Off center is)

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

BusinessProfile

ARNIE RUBENSTEIN CONSTRUCTION AND HANDYMAN SERVICES Start the New Year Right and Get your “Honey Do” list out for Arnie

By Colleen Hughes

E

veryone has that list of things that need to be done around the house.

The list of things to do seemingly grows by the day with few tasks completed so start the New Year right get it fixed NOW. Meet Arnie Rubenstein. The “Honey Do” man. Arnie is the owner of Arnie Rubenstein Construction and Handyman Services. He is a licensed contractor: for general building, electrical and plumbing.

It all started when he moved from Long Island to California at the age of 21. He bought a home in Boulder Creek and hired a crew of local carpenters to help him with his new home. It didn’t take long for him to realize that he could save quite a bit of money by doing the work himself. There began Arnie’s career as a carpenter/handyman. That was 43 years ago.

Arnie loves the development process.

He started out building custom homes and remodels. As the years went by, and the housing market began to level off, he found himself getting more referrals (many from real estate agents) for maintenance help such as plumbing leaks, patio and deck repair, faulty switches.

Any repair you need, Arnie can do it.

While he still does some remodeling, additions and new construction, he likes the

small tasks that generally require a quick fix and he leaves the customer happy and relieved to have it done.

When I asked him what his favorite part of the work was, he replied, “I like the people. I can come in and do a job repairing one thing or another and I move on to the next thing. What I do is fun now, it wasn’t always that way.”

Arnie Rubenstein Construction & Handyman Services serves all of Santa Cruz County. So, get that “Honey Do” list

out and call for a free estimate for your general home repairs and plumbing and electrical maintenance.

Arnie Rubenstein providing licensed handyman services (B License), Plumbing Repairs (C36 License), Electrical Repairs (C10 License), Patio and Deck Repairs as well as all household repairs and all facets of construction services.

Here are some common problems that Arnie can fix for you: plumbing leaks, leaking faucets, running toilets, bath exhaust

fans, faulty switches, defective plugs, fan installation and repairs, water heater replacement, fence repairs, yard maintenance and repairs, patio and deck repairs, remodeling, additions, disability retrofit, remodeling and new construction.

You can visit his website at www.handymanservices-arnie.com. He can be reach at 831-359-1586 or by email at: arnie@nccn.net.

Arnie Rubenstein – “We Do All Your Honey-Do’s.” I

Aptos Yoga Goes From For-Profit to Non-Profit

O

ver the past year, some local businesses have changed their status from for-profit to non-profit. Why would a business owner change their way of doing business? What are the advantages of such an arrangement?

We had the opportunity to ask some of these questions of a local business owner, Christine Hernandez (Kalavati) of Aptos Yoga who made the change to non-profit.

Q: How does this non-profit work?

A: From the operational standpoint, a small, volunteer staff and board currently run Aptos Yoga. Staff, Chudala, and myself, teach classes and offer therapy sessions throughout the week and we run the day-to-day business operations. When there is money to pay a staff we will, but for now it is all service to the community from our hearts.

We have a volunteer board with four members. The board helps guide the business and scientific decisions, helps with

to receive donacommunity outtions that are tax reach, and balancdeductible to ing our books. donors since we The board memare now a 501(c)3 bers have various public charity. We backgrounds in also have taxrunning non-profexempt status that its, education and allows us to use scientific research. funds that would Our mission to have been paid to promote health in the government our community Christine Hernandez and Chudala to offset sliding through the teachings of Svaroopa® Yoga, and to con- scale fees (for people who could not otherduct research on the healing effects of this wise afford to attend), free classes and community events. Donations could also style of yoga.

Q: What are the advantages to a business be used to pay salaries.

Q: What are the advantages of a non-profas a non-profit?

A: The center is now able to apply for it to your clients?

A: The knowledge gained through grants and other funding for research on the benefits of Svaroopa® yoga for certain research conducted to document the benetypes of health and physical conditions. fits of Svaroopa® yoga can be applied to Another advantage is that we are now able help people. Depending on their condition,

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

it could mean faster recovery from an accident or injury, reduced pain, greater mobility, greater flexibility, stronger bones, etc.

Aptos Yoga Centers is able to offer classes and therapy on a sliding scale basis to those with document-able financial limitations.

The Center can also accept taxdeductible donations to support discounted fees for students, programs such as free introductory classes, and community events.

When we have funds, we will also offer scholarships for certain students/ clients. This yoga center is for the whole community; it is a public charity for which we are only the guardians. Chudala and I don’t profit from it (although a salary would be helpful to keep us supported so we can continue offering support); everything goes back into the center so we can continue passing on the traditions of this heart opening, healing form of yoga to the community. I

SportsWrap

SCCAL All-League Football 2012 Aptos Awards Co-Offensive Player-of-the-Year Elijah Marta, RB, 6’0” 196 Senior Lineman-of-the-Year Alec Bonsall, TE/DE, 6’1” 205 Senior Junior of the Year Alex Joh, QB, 5’10” 167 Junior SCCAL First (1st) Team All-League Offense Running Back: Aaron McAnerney, 5’10” 170 Senior; Brodie Bennett, 6’0” 185 Senior

Offensive Line: Mitch Ocampo, 6’2” 230 Senior; Jon Sullivan, 6’3” 245 Senior Defense Line Backer: Nick DeMoro, 6’3”186 Senior SCCAL Second (2nd) Team All-League Offense Offensive Line: Alex Marquez, 5’11” 250 Junior; Zach Black, 5’11” 186 Junior Defense Defensive Line: Dante Gomez, 6’1” 195 Sophomore Line Backer: Cody Clifton, 6’2” 202 Senior; Austin Verdugo, 5’9” 173 Sophomore

Defensive Back: Eli Ungerecht, 5’10” 168 Junior Honorable Mention All-SCCAL Brian Blaich, 5’10” 195 Senior OL; Billy Walls, 5’8” 165 Sophomore RB; Tyler Iniguez, 5’10” 190 Senior DL; Weston Hinson, 5’11” 192 Sophomore DL; Antonio Andrade, 6’3” 182 Senior DB; Ethan Clarke, 6’0” 165 Junior OL; Brooks Nicholson, 5’11” 150 Junior P/K

Aptos High School Scoreboard Football Aptos loses ball and game against Valley Christian in CCS Div III Championship Season Record: (10-3) Valley Christian 51 – Aptos 20 n a game where their opponent had no turnovers, the Mariners’ seven Fumbles, losing three (one for a touchdown), and one interception kept their offence sputtering at critical points. It was a great season with Aptos going to the final game of 2012 in the CCS, playing undefeated in the SCCAL while winning the league crown.

Well done Mariners!

Aptos Stats: 22 First Downs, RushesYards 52-206, Passing yds 148, Comp-Att-Int 11-18-1, Fumbles-Lost 7-3, Penalties-yds 6-60 Aptos Scoring: Brodie Benet 12 yd run (Brooks Nicholson, kick) 9:16 2nd Q; Alec Bonsall 9 yd pass from Alex Joh (kick failed) 0:00 2nd Q; Elijah Marta 3 yd run (Nicholson, kick) 4:22 3rd Q

I

Chris Pacheco 77:00 Soledad 2 – Aptos 0 Hollister 4 – Aptos 3 Everett Alvarez 5 – Aptos 0 NMC 4– Aptos 0 (Scrimmage)

Holiday Songs

Girls Soccer Season Record (1-1-3) Aptos 2 – Robert Louis Stevenson 0 Mountain View 2 – Aptos 0 Los Gatos 4 – Aptos 0 St Francis 4 – Aptos 0 Aptos 1 – Gilroy 1

Boys Basketball Season Record: (2-2) Seascape Tournament Finals: St Mary’s High 75 – Aptos 53 Aptos 66 – Gunn High 49 Aptos 71 – Gilroy High 60 Non-league: Salinas High 76 – Aptos 75

Girls Basketball Girls All-CCS Cross Country Teams 2nd Team: Yulisa Abundis — CCS Sophomore of the Year Honorable Mention: Matti Peoples, Freshman

Boys Soccer Season Record: (1 - 4) Aptos 2 – North Salinas 0 Aptos Scoring: Arturo Milanes 36:00;

“CCS Awards” from pg 16 A team certificate and individual certificates of commendation will be presented to each school of each individual sport. I ••• Boys Cross Country 2.) Aptos HS 3.6812 5.) Pacific Collegiate School 3.6050

Season Record: (0-3) Seaside High 58 – Aptos 16 Aptos Scoring: Cari Crowder 5 pts, 3 rebounds, 3 blocks; Blanca Otvos 4 pts; Meghan Maxwell 3 pts; Vanessa RamosRocha 2 pts, 2 rebounds; Karsen Welle 2 pts, 2 rebounds, 3 blocks; Kendal Bivens 2 rebounds, 3 blocks Watsonville 48 – Aptos 32 Monte Vista 63 – Aptos 22

Girls Cross Country 4. Aptos HS 3.7846 Field Hockey 4.) St. Francis HS

3.5231

Girls Tennis 3.) Aptos HS

3.7777

Girls Volleyball 1.) Mt. Madonna

ACROSS 23. Zeus, e.g.

1. Muslim woman's 24. Dog pest headscarf 25. Boozer 6. Found on a keyboard 28. Red Cross supplies 9. *What mommy gave 30. Like Tinkerbell Santa 35. Absent soldier 13. Idealized image 37. Like Civil War reen14. Beatle bride actment battle 15. "Saturday Night 39. *"_____ Baby" Fever" music 40. Down in the dumps 16. Yo-Yo Ma with a 41. Up and about cello, e.g.

43. Tranquil scene 17. Like sashimi 44. Officially allowed 18. Team event in track 46. Hokkaido people 19. *"Away in a ______" 47. Calm by deception 21. Number of football 48. Like Thai cuisine, players on field per e.g. team 50. Eye amorously 52. Bro's sibling 53. Used for drying 55. Inflated feeling 57. Cream cheese on a bagel, e.g.

60. *Pipe smoker

63. Fictional cemetery dweller 64. Be in the red 66. In an unfriendly manner 68. *Seen with Santa 69. *Given name of famous crooner 70. Ranee's wrap 71. Blouses 72. Ottoman officer title 73. Heavy walk

10. ____ of Man 11. PET or CAT 12. ___ sauce 15. *"I'll be home for Christmas, if only in my ______" 20. Swelling 22. *"Mele Kalikimaka" wreath 24. Dissenting clique 25. *"Santa Baby, slip a _____ under the tree, for me" DOWN 26. Young hooter 1. That guy 27. Often describes luck 2. Mosque V.I.P. 29. Parks on a bus 3. Cup of Joe 31. Jack and Jill's water 4. Maturing jug 5. Double-drums 32. River in India 6. Millimeter of mercu- 33. Credit card reader ry writing tool, pl.

7. RNs' org.

34. *They are decked 8. B in IBS 36. With little fat 9. Chicken ___ 38. *Wenceslas' title

42. Olden days disciplinary tool 45. Probable 49. Jason Bourne's enemy 51. Altruist's opposite 54. Parkinson's drug 56. Grouchy Muppet 57. Used to frighten something away 58. Partner of circumstance 59. Goes with eggnog, pl.

60. Greek salad cheese 61. Novice 62. Original matter 63. Greenwich time 65. Tail move 67. Uh-huh © Statepoint Media

Answers on

25

»

3.8760 www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 15th 2012 / 23

FeaturedColumnist The Book Bag by Robert Francis

The Book Bag

Non-fiction holiday stocking stuffers …

by Robert Francis

Poster Art of the Disney Parks

By Danny Handke and Vanessa Hunt Disney Editions. $40.00 f you love poster art, this oversized collection of Disney attraction posters is a book you’ll want to add to your collection.

These samples depict some of the wonderful rides and show what awaits a visitor to any of the Disney theme parks.

Disneyland began using posters in 1956 to disseminate information about the newest attractions and to hype the existing ones. Whether it is proclaiming one can have a “true-life adventure” on the Jungle Cruise or announcing the opening of Cars Land, each of these posters offers a colorful, eye-catching feast for the eyes.

As you page through the book you’ll discover posters from every decade. The art also mirrors the evolution of style and design techniques which have changed over the years. Posters from Tokyo Disneyland, Disneyland Paris and Hong Kong Disneyland are featured along with the similar pieces from the California and Florida parks.

While some posters fill an entire page, others are paired in smaller groupings and show how the art changed for a particular attraction over the years.

It may seem to be a tad pricey, but once you see this collection I think you’ll agree it is really a bargain considering the dazzling art it contains.

I

The Impossible Rescue: The True Story of an Amazing Arctic Adventure

By Martin Sandler Candlewick Press. $22.99 lways a dangerous proposition, whaling off the coast of Alaska was particularly precarious in 1897 when an early winter brought with it a series of storms.

This is the true tale of how eight

A

American whale ships and about 300 sailors were trapped in the ice with little hope of escape. Martin Sandler tells the harrowing story of three men who were ordered by President McKinley to carry out an overland rescue that covered 1,500 miles of dangerous terrain in the dead of winter.

Their mission was to drive two herds of reindeer to the icebound ships to feed the starving crew members. Entries from the rescuers’ journals and photos they took along the way are used to document this harrowing and unprecedented operation.

Those who enjoy history and true life adventure yarns will find this a captivating narrative.

M4 Sherman Tank: Owners’ Workshop Manual

By Pat Ware Zenith Press. $28 ou may not have one of these iconic military vehicles parked in your garage or need an instruction manual on how to change the oil or adjust the tank’s treads, but this guide will still be of interest to anyone who is fascinated by heavy equipment.

The M4 S h e r m a n medium tank was the workhorse of World War II. Production began in 1941 in ten factories in the U.S. and one in Canada, and 49,500 rolled off the assembly lines by the time the conflict ended.

The tanks that survived the war saw additional service during the Indo-

Y

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

Pakistan War of 1965, the Six-Day War in 1967 and the Yom Kipper War in 1973.

Page upon page of images, diagrams and photos fill this volume that chronicles the Sherman tank’s development and highlights the differences in various models that were produced over the years.

Not just a history of the tank, this book also looks at what lies beneath the armored hull and also describes the experiences of the men who fought in it. And yes, if you are thinking about restoring one of these fighting vehicles, there is information on what lies ahead for you plus a short chapter on maintenance once you have it running.

Truly a unique book, this “Owners’ Workshop Manual” will fascinate any reader interested in military history, military vehicles or the history of World War II.

Gallery director, Gompertz understands the average person’s dilemma and addresses it in this book. He’ll provide the necessary tools to help you not only consider what you see when viewing “modern art” differently but also determine if it is really art at all. Yes, Gompertz does believe that many folks take this topic too seriously and he does have a wicked sense of humor, so you won’t find this a stodgy or overly pedantic narrative.

In fact, the sketches he shares of famous author’s lives and the author’s commentary on trends and innovations are very entertaining and make this book both informative and fun to read.

What Are You Looking At?

Y

The Surprising, Shocking, and Sometimes Strange Story of 150 Years of Modern Art

By Will Gompertz Dutton. $28.95 n an attempt to demystify modern art and offer an alternative to the “artspeak” you find in museums that tends to confuse more than enlighten, Will Gompertz created this refreshing, irreverent look at the modern art scene.

Many of the more famous works discussed here, such as van Gogh’s “The Starry Night”, Picasso’s “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon” and Munch’s “The Scream”, are familiar and resemble one’s concept of “art”. But there are other creations which either resemble an overturned dumpster or a sloppy house painter’s drop cloth that make one wonder if much of what is deemed “modern art” isn’t just a major put-on!

A BBC Arts Editor and former Tate

I

North American Railroads: The Illustrated Encyclopedia

By Brian Solomon Voyager Press. $40 ou’ll find 100 railway systems listed in this richly illustrated book that features short, concise histories of railways from the 1840s to the present.

Besides a two page description of the line (larger networks are given more space), you’ll find a sidebar for each railway that includes information such as years of operation, headquarters, route mileage, locomotives, nicknames and emblems, states and major cities served and notable features.

Since the bulk of these railroads no longer exist, a book of this nature is particularly useful for any train enthusiast who desires a record of the nation’s railroading history. Beautifully designed, this attractive book also showcases sixty of the color logos of the railroads found on the inside on the cover. Those images alone will evoke memories and attract train spotters and rail buffs to this volume. I

:

SPCA Featured Pet Truffle is a Real Treat!

T

Holiday Driving Hazards Dangerous driving behaviors could make December most dangerous month ever Attorney Douglas R. Horn

M

otorists not only need to exhibit extra caution while encountering treacherous road surfaces and reduced visibility during the weeks ahead, they also need to stay on high alert for four dangerous driving behaviors, which he says could make December 2012 one of the most dangerous months ever for motorists.

“When accompanied by poor road conditions, these four dangerous behindthe-wheel behaviors combine into a perfect storm of risk for drivers,” says Driving safety expert Doug Horn, founder of the driving safety program “Drive by Example.”

Drivers in warm climates with good road conditions need to be alert to these dangerous behaviors. Horn says. “During sunny days when roads are clear, drivers become ‘risk averse’ and drive faster while taking their attention off the physical activity of driving. Putting your vehicle on ‘autopilot’ is extremely dangerous at anytime of the year, but especially so during the holidays when traffic volume increases.”

The Winter Holiday’s Four Most Dangerous Driving Behaviors: 1. Distracted Driving: This includes driving while using cell phones for both talking and texting holiday messages to friends, co-workers and family. It also includes driving while checking out store hours and locations using a smart phone to surf the web.

2. Impaired Driving: Year-end dinners, parties and celebrations typically involve consumption of alcohol, and in too many cases, use of drugs. An increase in the number of impaired drivers using the roadways during the

winter holidays has been noted by law enforcement, and the loss of life resulting from impaired driving is well established.

3. Pressured Driving: The winter holidays typically bring with them increased pressures, especially financial pressures and the stress created by trying to do too much in a short time span. Drivers often react to these pressures by driving too fast for conditions, making aggressive lane changes, failing to yield rightof-way, and generally disregarding the needs and safety of others using the road.

4. Fatigued Driving: Increased demands and activities during the winter holidays often mean significantly reduced sleep schedules. According to a study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, people who slept six to seven hours a night were twice as likely to be involved in a crash as those sleeping eight hours or more, while people sleeping less than five hours increased their risk four to five times.

To help motorists stay accident-free, Horn has compiled some tips for safe driving, which should be, used 365 days a year by every motorist: Drive Alert: This is especially crucial at intersections where failure to notice traffic control devices can result in violent collisions and pedestrian injuries.

Drive Buckled: The use of seat belts reduces risk of crash fatality by 45 percent according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Organization.

“Holiday Driving” > 28

crossword on

23

»

ruffle was found roaming the streets of Monterey. She made it very clear that she was through with the running when she jumped into the car of a person hoping to grab a few things from the store. Truffle settled into the back seat like she was all set to go home with her new human friend.

Unfortunately for Truffle, going home with the person wasn’t an option so she was taken to a shelter to see if her owners would come find her. She waited for days and no one came to claim this lively girl, but in the mean-time she impressed shelter staff with her array of tricks which include sit, down, roll-over, high five, shake and a 360 dance. This girl will do anything for a treat!

While Truffle is very smart she is also very active and loves to play fetch, tug-o-war and will even go down a slide, preferably on someone’s lap. This girl is full of personality and it extremely fun to be around. She gets along with other dogs but seems be protective of her person when on a leash. She sleeps wonderfully through the night and when given a good amount of exercise per day, is very well behaved in the house.

Truffle would be considered a medium sized dog and weighs about 25 pounds. She loves to go on outings but gets a tad nervous on busy streets or in large crowds of people. She still needs a bit of training, which should be very easy given her intelligence but would require a consistent and firm teacher. She is a very attractive dog with medium length wire hair that needs regular brushing to keep it looking nice.

Truffle would do wonderful in a home with a fenced yard with people who have plenty of time for activity and fun. She would thrive with an all-adult household or a family with older kids ten and up. She bonds very quickly with her people and stays extremely loyal. Are you the human counterpart for this amazing girl? If so come on down and treat yourself to a very special dog! I

CommunityNews

Holiday Songs © Statepoint Media

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 15th 2012 / 25

For more Community Events and Entertainment visit

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

Announcements Be a Holiday Helper and make a difference!

M

First Mondays

Great Decisions Lecture Series 7:00pm-8:30pm, Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist, 125 Canterbury Dr. Aptos ecture series on "Great Decisions", put out

by The Foreign Policy Association. Lectures led by Dr. Laina Farhat-Holzman, sponsored

by Santa Cruz Branch, American Association of University Women (AAUW).

For more information, call Lois Holcomb (831) 688-0541.

ake the holiday season a positive one for the often forgotten care facility residents throughout our community by becoming a Holiday Helper. I-You ventures Holiday Helpers generously purchase, wrap, and label gifts so they are ready to be delivered to facility residents. Gift suggestions include: socks, slippers, combs, card games, lotion, necklaces, etc. All gifts should be dropped off at Family Service Agency, 104 Walnut Ave. Suite 208, SC. For further information, contact Carolyn or Sandra at (831) 459-8917 x208 or visit www.fsa-cc.org.

L

Nar-Anon

F

W

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 Visit http://nar-anon.org/Nar-Anon/ California.html for more information.

Mid-County Pony Baseball

R

egistration for the spring season is now open. Recreational baseball league for 1314 year olds and under with games at the Polo Grounds in Aptos. Registration deadline is January 23. Player registration packets available at www.midcountypony.com.

Ongoing Events Mondays thru Fridays

Svaroopa® Yoga Classes See website for times, Deerpark Shopping Center, 783 Rio Del Mar Blvd. Aptos es, you can do yoga! With the support of blankets, beginning students relax into easy poses designed to release to deepest tensions in the body along the spine. Discover this unique form of Hatha yoga that deeply relaxes, quiets the mind, reduces pain, accelerates injury recovery, and promotes better over all health.

For more information, visit www.aptosyoga.org, or call (831) 688-1019

Y

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

D

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

Chanticleer Ave., Santa Cruz (cross street is Soquel Ave.).

Freedom Forum Presents: Constitution Classes

First Tuesdays and Third Wednesdays Each month

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

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

C

F

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.

C

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 and Fourth Thursdays Each Month

Church Bible Study/Worship

Cabrillo Host Lions Club

9:45am: Bible Study; 11:00: Worship, First Baptist Church 7565 Sunset Way, Aptos ooking for a church? Come worship with us!

F

Ocean Gate Zen Center

G

Tail Wagging World of Dog Ownership 6:30pm at the Santa Cruz SPCA, 2685

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

P

O

L

Dated Events Saturday December 15 IBD Investor Group Meets

Toastmasters: Speak for Success

Pacific Speakers Association

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 Toastmasters. Open to all levels.

Drop-ins welcome. For more information, call 831-335-3693.

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

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

S

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

T

Saturdays

Child Welfare Review

Aptos Certified Farmers Market

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.

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.

Coastal Professionals 8:00am to 9:30am at Aptos History Museum, Old Dominion Court, Aptos. earn tips and make connections. Local professionals meet weekly to focus on business building and collaboration. Interested business owners, independent professionals and guests welcome.

For more information: 621-1153, www.CoastalProfessionals.net

L

Second and Fourth Wednesdays

12:00pm-1:00pm, Aptos Public Library opic: "How to Spot Market Bottoms" RSVP at www.meetup.com/ SantaCruzIBD.

T

Wednesday December 19 Fridays

First Wednesday Each Month

T

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

Over-Eaters Anonymous

C

Third Thursday Each Month

First Tuesdays Each Month

Sundays

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

Wednesdays

P

S

Free Job Seek Workshop!

Second Tuesdays Each Month

T

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.

4:00pm, 707 Fair Ave. Santa Cruz anta Cruz Bingo supports local charity.

All games have a minimum of a $150 prize, smaller crowds mean you have better odds.

For more information, visit www.santacruzbingo.com or email info@santacruzbingo.com. You can also call (831) 427-1007 and press 4.

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

Veterans of Foreign Wars

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

J

Santa Cruz Bingo

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.

Second Thursdays Each Month

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.

Drop in Grief Support

daily lives. This will be an informal talk with time for discussion. Free — donations accepted.

Visit oceangatezen.org for more info.

T

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

C

The Freedom Forum Presents: Movie Night and Holiday Potluck 6:30pm, Live Oak Grange, 1900 17th Ave. Santa Cruz lease bring a dish for 6-8 people (entree, side-dish, or desert). A label for your dish is always appreciated by those with limited diets (vegetarian, gluten free, etc.). Bring serving utensils for your dish, all other dinnerware will be provided.

Film will be "The American Dream". After the movie we can talk about what actions can be taken in the new year to improve our country, our world, and freedom forum.

Event is free, donations are appreciated. For more information, call (831) 708-8626.

P

Wednesday January 23 CHADD ADHD Meeting hosted by Lynda Meeder 6:30-8:00pm, Mar Vista Elementary School, 6860 Soquel Dr. oga and how its practice can help children with ADHD, even children, will be the topic of discussion when the Santa Cruz CHADD ADHD Support Group hosts Lynda Meeder, Director of Children's Yoga at Luma Yoga and Family Center. Come wearing comfortable clothes for a yoga demonstration following the presentation.

For more information, contact Judy Brenis at jbbrenis@comcast.net or call (831) 684-0590. I

Y

Your December Horoscope Annabel Burton • Astrologer ©

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20) Inspiration is a wonderful thing - you cannot see it or touch it and yet you feel it. Someone is inspiring you these days and you see this person as a leading light. Of course, you love what is real and tangible, and yet the intangibles change lives as much as the realities. Allow this thought to penetrate and you see that you have the best combination. The Full Moon at the end of this month is a turning point for you, bringing these ideas to light at last. Enjoy. And of course it is the season to be jolly. Your humour is a little dark but perfect for the times we are in.

Announcements

Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb. 18)

Annual BATA Fashion Show at Watsonville High needs donations!

While you have been considering serious questions about your life direction recently, the important thing is to align what you love with what you do and get paid for. New developments here point you in the right direction and help and advice comes from an unexpected quarter. It is up to you to take the appropriate action but you have been waiting for the right moment. Love and romance are key for you over the Christmas Season, and while you are happy to be friends with everyone there is just one special person you want to be with.

Practicalities take precedence at the end of the month!

T

he Business and Technology Academy of Watsonville High School will be hosting their annual fashion show. They are looking for local boutiques and clothing stores to donate or lend clothes for their show.

If you are interested in participating, contact Barbara Castro at castro_barbara @hotmail.com, or by calling (831) 239-7258.

Pisces (Feb. 19-Mar. 20) Exciting new developments around friends overseas or anything with a foreign flavour set you on course for a new way of being. Perhaps it won't seem so dramatic at first but you have been on a steady pathway of growing and understanding for some time, and your basic philosophy is changing due to what you have recently learned. This is a great time for mending bridges, and renewing friendships but also being kinder to yourself since you sometimes give yourself quite a hard time.

Practical solutions can be better than expected towards the end of the month after a stroke of good fortune.

Ongoing Events Tuesdays

Aries (March 21-April 20)

BINGO

This is a month for different choices and options and your energies are shared between various factions of your life. Career plans are helped and new directions are a possibility for you. Make the most of the first week to push forward and create waves. Discover new information that can have a real influence on what you bring into your life, and it is likely that connections far and wide can result in adventure and change. The only thing holding you back is you! The Christmas Season brings joy and a new addition to your family.

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

H

Free Trivia 7:00pm, Boulder Creek Pizza and Pub, 13200 State Route 9, Boulder Creek reat fun and prizes too! Come and enjoy some amazing pizza, breadsticks, drink, friends, and trivia! Who could ask for more?

G

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

L

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

F

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.

T

First Fridays Each Month

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

The Watsonville Community Band at the Aptos Fourth of July Parade

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.)

musicians and singers! And an exhibit of local art will be featured 7 days a week.

For more information, contact Christine Shelton-Anderson at (755) 544-5651.

First and Third Fridays Each Month

Weekends

Friday Shakespeare Club 10:30am-12:30pm, First Congregational Church, 900 High St. Santa Cruz or more information, visit www.fridayshakespeare.org, or call Kris at (831) 421-0930 or Nanette at (831) 438-3615.

F

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.

B

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.

B

Fourth Saturdays Each Month

Writers and Poets Open Mike 2:00pm-4:00pm, Porter Memorial Library, 3050 Porter St. Soquel (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

W

First Friday Art Tour

T

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.

Sunday December 16

Saturdays

Live Jazz and Local Art at Zizzo's Coffee 11:30am-1:30pm, Zizzo's Coffee, 3555 Clare's St. Capitola isten to live jazz featuring members of the Santa Cruz Jazz Society. So many talented

L

including Friday, December 21

Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train Roaring Camp Railroads

A

seasonal tradition returns to Santa Cruz with the Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train. Ride vintage excursion cars, adorned with thousands of colorful lights, as they roll through city streets past homes of Santa Cruz. Add your voice to the holiday sing along, sip hot spiced cider, listen to musical entertainment, and enjoy a visit from Santa. Choice of one holiday activity and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is included with Holiday Lights Train ticket price.

For more information, visit www.roaringcamp.com, or call (831) 3354484.

Dated Events

Fourth Friday Each Month

Musical Me Inc. Family Jam Night

Tickets available at the door, and from www.satacruzchorale.org. You may also call (831) 437-8023.

Friday December 14 thru Sunday December 16

Watsonville Community Band 65th Winter Concert Series 2:00pm, Henry J. Mello Center, Watsonville et into the holiday season by coming to see The Watsonville Community Band in their brand new uniforms. They will play Christmas songs and other music of the season.

Admission is free.

G

Friday December 21 Santa Cruz Chorale Christmas Concert 8:00pm-10:00pm, Our Lady of Christians, 2401 East Lake St. Watsonville egin a new holiday tradition! This season, give yourself and those you love the gift of beautiful, live choral music at the Santa Cruz Chorale's concert in December.

You'll be inspired by soaring notes and blended harmonies from the Renaissance to current times, including beloved traditional carols.

Tickets available at the door, and from www.santacruzchorale.org. You may also call (831) 437-8023.

B

The Original Santa Cruz Nutcracker 1:00pm and 4:30pm, Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St. Santa Cruz anta Cruz Ballet Theatre celebrates its 10th anniversary performing The Nutcracker with incomparable Maestro John Larry Granger conducting the Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre Orchestra.

Tickets: $5-$15 depending on seating. For tickets visit www.santacruztickets.com.

S

Saturday December 15 Sunday December 16 Christmas with the Santa Cruz Chorale Saturday at 8:00pm, Sunday 4:00pm, Holy Cross Church, 123 High St. Santa Cruz egin a new holiday tradition! This season, give yourself and those you love the gift of beautiful, live choral music.

You'll be inspired by the soaring notes and blended harmonies from the Renaissance to current times, including beloved traditional carols.

B

Body in Motion Pilates Benefit 5:30pm-7:30pm, 783 Rio Del Mar Blvd.

Suite 55 Aptos vent to benefit Project Night Night, a local nonprofit that advocates for homeless children in the bay area. Guests are invited to participate by providing a $20 donation. and taking part in the special one and half hour long Xtend Barre class, followed by cupcakes and champagne.

For more information, contact Claudia at (858) 764-0566.

E

In some ways you are glad to see the back of 2012 and look forward to the new plans you have in mind for next year. But you have also achieved some outstanding in some areas and new relationships are warm and very special. While you acknowledge that there are certain aspects over which you have little control, nevertheless your creative mind set has unleashed ideas and thoughts in others and this is your gift, making the intangible real and practical. Wait till after the 21st to launch into a brand new direction.

Gemini (May 22-June 21) You have mixed feelings about reaching the last month of the year and while the Sun is in your area to do with relationships, then this is the time to renew your vows and strengthen what you have with your special other. This year Christmas is different and you acknowledge that life is a constant stream of change which you are very much part of. There is not time to be stuck in a rut and by the 11th you feel shift is happening. Mercury, your ruler, is now in Sagittarius and links and connections with the media are great. You are brilliant at self promotion at this time!

Cancer (June 22-July 22) The month starts intriguingly with a highly emotive set of circumstances that you are drawn into. But you are well equipped to deal with what is happening and your role in being a lynch pin is important to bring stability once more. You work hard at creating the circumstances which bring peace and fulfillment and seek out those who are positive and supportive. After the 21st the Sun moves into Capricorn, your opposite sign. This is significant for long term partnerships and with the Full Moon in your sign at the end of the month, a greater understanding and a new chapter in your life is just beginning.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 23) Important choices are there for you at the start, based around trying to fit in with all the social demands that are placed on you! It is important to factor in time with your nearest and dearest and while there is a certain frantic quality to the Season of Goodwill, you manage to make is special and simple for those you love. Using your artistic skills, this year you are clever at the detail and love to see the joy in others. A special offer for you around the last week looks almost too good to be true, but is it?

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sep. 22) This is a wonderful time for courses, learning, discovering and finding out. You are travelling more than usual and making connections with a wide variety of people. This means you are busy, busy, busy!

But there is a purpose to all this and you have felt rather impatient that some situations that you are eager to move forward have been a little slow in getting going. You are brilliant at the practicalities and will find that your organizational skills are perfect in the run up to Christmas. Mid-month you are drawn to the past with a trip down Memory Lane.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 23) You are so busy organizing your finances that you barely notice Christmas until it is upon you! But you are looking at the bigger picture and this is a great time to venture into self employment and start your own business. You have plenty of ideas and have been doing your homework and research. Make the most of current trends to push forward with your plans. Your ruler, Venus, goes into Scorpio mid-month and here passion is more evident which adds a sizzle to your relationships! Whatever is going on behind the scenes can now be a little more open and less secretive!

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Earlier in the month, all is going well for you when it comes to socializing, creating the right relationships and connections with others and it's not hard to make new friends. It could be that long lasting relationships are not what you need right now, and variety, of course, is the spice of life. This means that you are upbeat and more into having fun than anything else. But the mood changes a little later and you are more serious and able to stand back a little to give invaluable advice to someone who could do with your help.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Sunday December 23 Festival Choir 10:00 am, 10707 Soquel Dr. Aptos estival choir will enhance Sunday morning service at Christ Lutheran Church.

For more information, visit www.aptoschurch.org. I

F

That familiar feeling of juggling so many different elements and trying to keep everyone happy is back again this month but not for too long. There is an intensity at the start but you do enjoy what the month brings, especially as some of you will be celebrating your birthday. Luck is with you and chance encounters can lead to doors opening with both business and/or love. You are glad that certain aspects are now part of your past, and you are looking forward with hope and optimism. The Full Moon in Cancer at the end of your month highlights the need for change and transformation.

••• Find Out More www.AnnabelBurton.tv

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

FeaturedColumnist From Watsonville to Santa Cruz Free estimates for

A Message From Soon-To-Be 2nd District Supervisor Zach Friend

new roofs, reroofs, repairs, or just some advice!

KNOX ROOFING

461-0634 Lic.#696146

PACIFIC FENCE Quality Work - Competitive Prices Over 20 years experience

CRAIG ANDERSON Owner Office & Fax: 831-684-0957 CA license # 708339 Website: www.Pacific-Fence.net

!

TO ADVERTISE IN THE BUSINESS GUIDE SECTION

call our offices 831.688.7549

28 / December 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

2nd District Supervisor-Elect Zach Friend

O

n January 7, 2013, I will have the honor of taking office replacing Supervisor Ellen Pirie who is retiring after 12 years representing our district.

Since my election in June, I’ve met with nearly all of the county department heads and staff, neighborhood organizations, local elected leaders and residents continuing to hear about the challenges and opportunities facing our county. In addition, I’ve hired two staff members and will be making a number of appointments to local commissions.

Transitions are always difficult, but Supervisor Pirie has been extremely generous with her time ensuring that the transition is as smooth as possible for our district.

My largest focus has been on the county budget and how we can create a stable funding structure for our local roads, parks and public safety. As I’ve met with neighbors and local organizations I’ve heard a constant desire to improve our infrastructure and work to maintain the high quality of life by supporting public safety, parks and open spaces. All of this needs to be done under a new eye toward balanced economic development; development that provides essential funding to support our programs, reduces the need to cut vital services and even allows us to improve service delivery.

The 2nd District is a unique and beautiful place and almost our entire district is unincorporated, meaning the county is the primary provider of services. This means we face additional challenges to infrastructure including roads and drainage, public safety and land use than some other areas in the county.

“Holiday Driving” from pg 25 Drive Cautious: Drive at safe speeds for conditions, keep proper distance between vehicles, obey traffic signs, and signal all turns. Resist the temptation to make a sudden lane change or another risky maneuver.

Drive Defensively: When you

It is clear that our roads need repair, the highway improvements are well overdue and that we can still support economic development that funds our vital services while fitting within the character of our community.

This also means that the primary conduit to these services is the county supervisor and supervisor’s staff.

Because of this, I place a significant amount of weight on community input. It is impossible to be everywhere at once or know all of the issues as well as you do. You are spending every day in your neighborhoods traveling the roads, shopping at or even opening local businesses, seeing changes to neighborhood safety or experiencing land use matters.

You are the experts. I rely on neighborhood associations, homeowners groups, small business organizations and chambers of commerce to provide the input that allows us to effectively govern this area. In my opinion, we all have an important role to play in our community’s outcomes. I ask that you

always feel you can reach out to me or my staff to get your needs addressed. I will learn from your questions and do the best I can to work toward long-term solutions to some of our most pressing issues.

I am a firm believer in increasing community access to local government. I plan on increasing neighborhood-based office hours (to reduce the need for you to travel to the county building), and working with departments on technological tools that make the county more accessible. Technological improvements and streamlining processes will be looked to whenever possible especially during these difficult economic times.

I’m confident we can meet these challenges by taking a balanced approach to policy and making a commitment to tackle large problems over scoring easy political points.

I don’t pretend to have all of the answers. As with any new position, I know there will be a steep learning curve and some bumps along the road. But I’m confident that the challenges our county faces are not insurmountable. With clarity of purpose, a willingness to work together and ultimately your advice and support, I’m confident we can create a vision for our county that will make future generations proud.

Please feel free to reach out to me with your thoughts, questions and concerns. I hope to see you at one of my neighborhood office hours that will start in January. Beginning January 7, I can be reached by calling the Board 454-2200. Before that point I can still be reached via my website at www.friendforsupervisor.com.

Thank you for the honor and opportunity to serve you! I

drive alert, buckled and cautious, you are effectively protecting yourself, your passengers and other motorists against risk of violent collision, injury and fatality.

Drive by Example: When drivers model safe driving behaviors, they are in the best position to protect themselves, their passengers and others on the roadway. I

••• Attorney Douglas R. Horn is founder of the Horn Law Firm in Kansas City, where he specializes in motor vehicle accident law and crash litigation. He is a member of the Governor’s Highway Safety Association and is the founder of the driver safety organization, “Drive By Example” – www.drivebyexample.com

The 2nd District is a unique and beautiful place and almost our entire district is unincorporated, meaning the county is the primary provider of services. This means we face additional challenges to infrastructure including roads and drainage, public safety and land use than some other areas in the county.

CommunityNews

Kayak from Scratch Cabinetmaker uses craft in building his own adventure

By Noel Smith

D

aniel Foster wants to go places, that is anyplace along the Central Coast that a kayak can take him. To make sure he has the right boat, he is building it himself.

“I wanted a boat that could take me anywhere from Elkhorn Sough to out onto the Monterey Bay,” Foster said. “I found a design by Nick Schade that is perfect for what I want to do.”

The kayak structure is made of redwood and Alaskan yellow cedar made into narrow strips that are carefully fitted together. The wood is polished to a smooth surface, and then covered with a layer of fiberglass saturated with epoxy resin. This composite construction of wood, fiberglass, and resin provides a stiff, rugged shell that lets the beauty of the wood show through. The epoxy provides a clear, waterproof protective shell over the wood requiring minimal maintenance.

Daniel’s wife, Deanna said, “This is something that Daniel has wanted to do for

25 years. His greatgrandfather was a clipper ship captain sailing from Beverly, Massachusetts to China and his family has been around boats ever since. It’s in his blood! He grew up around Cape Cod. After we married and moved to Virginia, I Daniel Foster’s kayak, in progress discovered he was an amazing canoeist. Four years ago, we especially when out on the ocean. “I want moved to California where I grew up on the to take it out 6-7 miles to experience the sea Peninsula. He discovered that here on the life on the Monterey Bay. When not building his dream, he is a Central Coast Kayaks is the thing. He wants carpenter specializing in remodeling. to build it and take it out onto the ocean.”

When Daniel’s Kayak is finished, it According to Daniel, “When we lived in will be 17 feet long, 24 inches wide and Virginia, it seems a lot of homes wanted weigh about 45 pounds. The next step is traditional libraries and remodeled getting used to his kayak, as he is a kitchens.”

Good luck! Look for the launching canoeist, not a kayaker. He’ll have to learn how to get out of and back into the boat announcement in the Aptos Times. I

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / December 15th 2012 / 29

FeaturedColumnist

Welcome to Sheriff’s Corner M

y name is Paul Ramos and I am a Sergeant with the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office. I am currently assigned to the Aptos Sheriff Center located in the Ranch Del Mar Shopping Center. I was recently approached by the Times Publishing Group and asked to write a column for the community. I am excited about this opportunity and platform for community outreach. I was raised here locally; therefore, I have a deep appreciation for where we live and the desire to keep our county safe. I wanted to address two topics of interest: How to contact law enforcement and auto burglaries within our community.

I have presented at several public meetings during the last year and one topic of conversation that always comes up is, when should a resident or concerned citizen call the Sheriff’s Office?

Suspicious circumstances — If something seems suspicious then it probably is so follow your instinct on this one.

I am excited about this opportunity and platform for community outreach. I was raised here locally; therefore, I have a deep appreciation for where we live and the desire to keep our county safe.

— Paul Ramos Often people struggle with the question; when should a person dial 911?

People seem to reason away what they are seeing or think they shouldn’t bother law enforcement. Sometimes what you are witnessing could have significance in solving other investigations law enforcement is currently working on. Often it will make us aware of problems in your neighborhood.

Remember, you are the eyes and ears for law enforcement and we rely on your information.

Here are three ways to contact us: 911 in an emergency, 471-1121 for non-emergency calls that need a deputy response, or my office at 662-0690 if you need further information or want to work on long term

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

solutions for your neighborhood. The Sheriff’s Office is currently working on additional methods of ongoing communication that will enable us to stay better informed of neighborhood problems.

Crime Tips • Auto burglaries are unfortunately a reality in our community. Here are some tips to help you avoid being a victim of this crime.

• Lock your doors. Most thefts from vehicle happens when the vehicle is left unlocked • Don’t leave valuables in plain sight.

This is a crime of opportunity and burglars look for items of value that they can easily take.

• At night, park in well lit or heavily trafficked areas. Thieves do not like

witnesses. Find an attended lot or garage if possible.

• Never leave your car running unattended. Cars are often stolen at convenience stores, gas stations or when an owner leaves the vehicle running to warm it up.

These are just a few tips that could help prevent auto burglaries. This is especially important during the holidays when you are shopping and have gifts in your vehicle. If you are out shopping and have to leave gifts in your vehicle, cover them or place them in the trunk so they are out of view.

I hope this information has been helpful. Feel free to contact me regarding anything in this article or if you have ideas or concerns, I can address these in future articles.

Have a happy Holiday season and a safe New Year. I ••• Sergeant Paul Ramos, Aptos Sheriff Center – Community Policing Division: Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office, 831-662-0690