Aptos Times: March 15, 2020

Family Owned For Over 29 Years • Aptos, La Selva Beach, Corralitos, Freedom & Watsonville

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March 15, 2020 • Vol 29 No. 6

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Closed: Cabrillo, Public Schools, Libraries, and More

In a situation that is unprecedented, all school districts in Santa Cruz County, all public libraries, Cabrillo College, and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, one of the county’s largest employers, all county parks programs and the Aptos farmers market have closed ...

Full Story page 10

Mariners Win CCS Championship Aptos High Girls Basketball Earn Title For Third Time In Four Years

By Jondi Gumz The 2019-20 Aptos High School girls basketball team won the Central Coast Section D3 championship on Feb. 29, defeating Mills 57-30 and earning a banner to hang in the gym.

The Mariners have claimed the Division 3 championship three times in the past four years.

Afterward, the girls, who are Santa Cruz Coast

Athletic League champions, moved up in MaxPrep’s computer rankings to No. 591 in the nation.

Coached by Bruce Funk, the Aptos girls ranked No.13 in Division 3 and No. 69 overall in California before they ended their season in the NorCal semi-finals with a 27-5 record. ... continues on page 4

New Leader for Mount Madonna

Ann Goewert, a math and science specialist at the helm of a private school in Silicon Valley, will be Mount Madonna School’s next head of school.

She succeeds Mary Supriya McDonald, who retires July 1.

Full Story page 6

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Discover less traffic & more trees Academic excellence Creative self-expression Positive character development CAIS & WASC accredited Bus transportation

408-847-2717 MountMadonnaSchool.org

YIELD. EVERY CORNER IS A

LEGAL CROSSWALK. Did you know that every corner is a legal crosswalk? Drivers are required by law to yield to pedestrians at ALL intersections—even if there is no marked crosswalk.

So avoid a ticket and give pedestrians a break by stopping when you see someone waiting to cross. And please be patient. Even if that pedestrian is the slowest human on earth. Even if you can turn in front of him without impeding progress. Even if you’re in a big fat hurry; you shouldn’t go until he’s back on the curb.

Please wait your turn and obey the law by giving pedestrians the right of way at all intersections. It’s the Street Smarts thing to do.

2 / March 15th 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

No. 6

Volume 29

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Table of Contents

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Cover Mariners Win CCS Championship: Aptos High Girls Basketball Earn Title For Third Time In Four Years, By Jondi Gumz

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Community News Sign Up for Human Race By March 18 • Santa Cruz River/Water Paving Project Starts New Leader for Mount Madonna: Goewert New Head of School; McDonald Retiring After 13 Years National Ag Day Spring Luncheon Moved Election Results as of March 12 • District Attorney Warns of Rental Scrams • Burglary Arrest Bay Federal is “Best in Class” • Goodwill to Support ALS Association With Fundraiser • Loch Lomond Area Gets Access Upgrades • Retired Teachers’ April Lunch Cancelled • Deputies Issue Alcohol Violations • Economic Summit to go Virtual Closed: Cabrillo, Public Schools, Libraries, and More, By Jondi Gumz County Guidance to Prevent COVID-19 Spread Sutter Invests in Health Campus Second Harvest Honors Hunger Fighters of the Year: Food Bank Surpasses Goal of 4.8 Million Meals Aegis Limits Visitation, By Jondi Gumz • $4 Million Housing Trust Loan Benefits Seniors Habitat Postpones Volunteer Building • Road Work Starts on Soquel Drive Frontage Road Dominican Hospital Limits Visitors • SC to Close City Facilities • Caltrans Activates COVID-19 Signs How to Talk to Kids about COVID-19 Mock Trial: A Student Perspective, By Jamie Walton • More Time to File for California Taxpayers • Jazzercise Classes Halted in S. Valley, Boulder Creek PG&E: No Disconnects During Outbreak • Michael’s on Main Cancels Music Shows

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California News 14 Salmon Fishery Opening Delayed 20 Gov. Newsom’s Ex. Order on Pandemic

Letter From The Publisher 15 COVID-19: What does this mean for Santa Cruz County Businesses?, By Patrice C. Edwards

Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – Your November Horoscope Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29

Featured Columnists 24 We Always Need More ‘Best’ Customers, By Ron Kustek • Santa Cruz County Trying To Contain COVID-19, By Zach Friend, Second District Supervisor 25 Alcohol: The Sedative — Part 1, By Ron Conte, Pharm.D. 27 Improving Your Immune System Is Good, By John Wilkins 30 Storm Damage Repair Timelines, By Zach Friend, Second District Supervisor 31 Cool Vegetable Gardening Goes Warm, By Tony Tomeo

SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 31– Journey Will Win Your Heart Too

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COVER STORY publisher

Patrice Edwards

editor

Jondi Gumz

contributing writers Camisa Composti, Jondi Gumz, Jamie Walton, Ron Kustek, Zach Friend, Ron Conte, John Wilkins, Tony Tomeo layout Michael Oppenheimer, Jim Johnson graphic artists Michael Oppenheimer, Jim Johnson photography Michael Oppenheimer, Jim Johnson, Brad King website Michael Oppenheimer, Camisa Composti production coordinator Camisa Composti advertising sales Don Beaumont, Teri Huckobey Cathe Race

“Mariner’s CCS Champs” from page 1 Seeded No. 8 in the NorCal playoffs, the Mariners played No. 5 Woodside on their court in Portola Valley and lost in overtime, 59-53.

In their NorCal run, the Mariners had put together a come-from-behind victory, 48-45, against No. 9 seed Vista Del Lago of Folsom, but the Priory Panthers proved to be tougher.

Along the way, senior Natalia Ackerman, a four-year starter headed to play at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, set a school scoring record.

She lit up the boards for 1,764 points, surpassing Hannah Hocom, who scored 1,529 in her four-year career and graduated in 2019.

Senior Gabby Guiffre, a four-year starter who will play at University of San Diego, scored 1,357 points in her career, putting her fifth on the Aptos all-time scoring list.

In interviews Friday night with the

Aptos Times, some of the starters — friends since fifth grade at Bradley Elementary — talked about their dream season.

For Natalia, winning CCS — the game against Mills — is her favorite memory.

“That meant a lot to us,” she said.

“That was our goal — winning CCS.” The Aptos team dominated Mills, earning a lopsided 57-30 victory.

“It was crazy — our defense was killer,” Natalia said, referring to senior twins Madison and Emma Stefanini, who kept their opponents from shooting and made them miss shots.

The seniors had to adjust to a new coach, their third, and they appreciated Funk’s style.

“He was awesome,” Natalia said. “He put a lot of time in, and he really believed in us. We always had a strong mindset going into games.”

Assessing the season, she said, “We put a lot of our heart into it. We went as far as we could — we went farther than we’ve gone in a long time — since 1984

office coordinator

Bill Pooley, James Hudson

distribution

Times Publishing Group, Inc. 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 The Times Publishing Group, Inc., publishers of the Aptos Times, a bi-monthly publication, the Capitola Times and Scotts Valley Times, each printed monthly, Coastal Weddings Magazine, Coastal Home and Garden Magazine, Aptos’ Fourth of July Parade Official Program Guide and Capitola’s Begonia Festival Official Program Guide, is owned by Patrice Edwards.

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Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission

Natalia Ackerman (35) is ready to rebound against Vista del Lago.

PHONE: (831) 688-7549 FAX: (831) 688-7551 GENERAL E-MAIL: info@cyber-times.com Patrice Edwards: patrice@cyber-times.com Publisher’s Assistant: assistant@cyber-times.com Editor: info@cyber-times.com Calendar Listings: www.tpgonlinedaily.com Graphics Department: graphics@cyber-times.com Billing Inquiries: cathe@cyber-times.com Classified Sales: sales@cyber-times.com Production: production@cyber-times.com CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE AT: www.tpgonlinedaily.com mission statement We at the Times Publishing Group, Inc. are dedicated to providing a voice for the individuals and organizations in our community while highlighting the outstanding accomplishments of our local businesses. We seek to promote healthy family values through our coverage of youth activities, school news, senior events, community groups and entertainment 4 / March 15th 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Coach Bruce Funk tells his team how to win against Vista del Lago. ... l’m not sure what we could have done differently.”

She thanked fans for their support.

Asked about the cancellation of the state championship, she said, “It’s heart-breaking.”

Madison said her favorite memory was beating Lick-Wilmerding in the second game of the NorCal playoffs.

The secret sauce? Trust.

“We really honed in our defense,” she said. “We trusted each other we would do our best … be on our man and stay aggressive.”

The Stefaninis, being fraternal twins, had another advantage, confusing their opponents as to who is covering who.

This year’s team had a following, “”the biggest turnout we’ve had,” said Madison.

“It was incredible for them to come out.”

Funk, an attorney in San Jose, moved to Aptos a year ago.

“Girls Basketball” page 12

COMMUNITY NEWS

Sign Up for Human Race By March 18 T he Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County with event sponsor Looker invites nonprofits, schools, groups and churches to register for the 2020 Human Race.

The Human Race Giving Campaign culminates with a family-friendly walk and fun run May 9 along West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz.

This group participated in the Human Race to raise money for Kuumbwa Jazz Center.

Each year more than 100 organizations step out to ask for financial support for the causes they champion. Attendees can expect a parade of lively costumes and banners, free food, music along the course, a family-friendly fair afterward and activities for all ages.

This campaign, with the theme “Walk for Change,” launches March 25. New agencies have until March 18 to register.

This is the 40th year of the Human Race. It is the longest running Human Race event in the country and the largest collaborative fundraiser on the Central Coast.

“The Human Race is truly a oneof-a-kind resource for nonprofits and community groups of all sizes to reach a level of fundraising success that they may not achieve alone,” said Volunteer Center Human Race coordinator Aisha Charves.

“This event has grown by leaps and bounds in the last five years with teams collectively raising over $1 million,” she said.

“In 2019, we raised over $250,000, our top teams each took away more than $15,000 in donations, and together we engaged nearly 5,000 donors from near and far.”

The Volunteer Center provides all teams with event support including publicity and promotion from media sponsors such as KION and Stephens Media Group,

Photo credit Bill Bischoff

Young people active in Youth NOW, a Watsonville nonprofit, teamed up for the Human Race. fundraising training and free access to the peer-to-peer fundraising website run by Give Gab where agencies can receive online donations, communicate with their supporters and visually track their financial progress. n

••• To register an organization, visit www. humanracesc.org for information or contact Aisha Charves at the Volunteer Center at 831427-5070 or humanrace@scvolunteercenter. org.

Santa Cruz River/Water Paving Project Starts

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he City of Santa Cruz is scheduled to begin the River Street and Water Street Overlay Project on Monday, March 16.

Funded by Measure H, Measure D, SB1 gas tax and state grants, the project is rehabbing pavement in two locations: River Street from Madrone Street to Water Street and Water Street from River Street to N. Branciforte Avenue.

Construction will occur weekdays from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with traffic control in place.

Two-way traffic will continue but motorists should expect minor delays. Parking, bike lanes and pedestrian access will be affected.

The project is expected to conclude in early May. Any concerns or questions may be addressed to Project Manager Ricardo Valdés, at (831) 420-5198 or RValdes@cityofsantacruz.com. n

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COMMUNITY NEWS

New Leader for Mount Madonna

Goewert New Head of School; McDonald Retiring After 13 Years

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nn Goewert, a math and science specialist at the helm of a private school in Silicon Valley, will be Mount Madonna School’s next head of school. She succeeds Mary Supriya

Ann Goewert will become head of school at Mount Madonna School in Watsonville on July 1.

McDonald, who retires July 1.

“Ann is a passionate educator with extensive experience and leadership in K-12 education as well as higher education,” said Sarada Diffenbaugh, president of the MMS board of directors, and a former, longtime MMS principal. “Ann’s selection has the unanimous support of our trustees. She brings to MMS her love of community, respect for cultural traditions, commitment to learning and a vibrant vision for our future. She is truly excited to join our school and share her successes in collaborative leadership, a track record of innovation, a belief that learning should be authentic and meaningful, and to tap into the passion and interests of students and educators.”

Goewert is the principal at South Peninsula Hebrew Day School in Sunnyvale, which honored her March 1 for her contributions. She previously headed Meira Academy, an all-girls college prep high school launched in Palo Alto in 2011.

“I am drawn to MMS because it instills

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an unquenchable passion for learning,” she said. “The school fosters curiosity in students, challenges them to dig deep and question ideas, and encourages intellectual risk-taking… Mount Madonna students take pride knowing that each student has a purpose and plays an integral role in the school community. Learners at Mount Madonna are not passive; they are drivers of change in the local community, as well as at a broader level.”

She has a doctorate in earth sciences from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, a master’s degree in ecology, evolution and organismal biology from Iowa State University, and a bachelor’s degree in biology from St. Louis University.

She taught at San Jose State University before joining Meira Academy.

Goewert has a certificate of completion from the Principal’s Center at Harvard University and is enrolled in Harvard’s School Leadership and Administration Program.

She has led California Association of Independent School accreditation efforts,

Mary Supriya McDonald, who has led Mount Madonna School since 2007, retires after 33 years. increased enrollment, designed curriculum and built community and donor partnerships.

McDonald’s retirement was announced last June.

“Goewert” page 7

COMMUNITY NEWS

National Ag Day Spring Luncheon Moved M atthew Wetstein, president of but one who has done much for the industry. The presenter will Cabrillo College, be last year ’s honoree, Tony will be the feaScurich. tured speaker at the 2020 Farm Bureau and AgriNational Agriculture Day Culture co-sponsor a poster Spring Luncheon, which contest for grades K-6 and will now be held May 27, a poetry contest for grades change from March 18 due 7-12 in Santa Cruz County to coronavirus. His talk is and Pajaro Valley schools. titled, “Importance of EduWinning entries will cating Ag’s Future.” be displayed during the The Santa Cruz County Tony Scurich luncheon and this year ’s Farm Bureau in conjunction with Agri-Culture will again host the winners will be introduce.

A placemat featuring the 2019 poster luncheon in the Heritage Hall the Santa contest winner, Luna Caddes, 6th grader Cruz County Fairgrounds.

One of the highlights of the National from Santa Cruz Montessori School in Agriculture Day Spring Luncheon will Santa Cruz, on the tables.

The 2019 poetry contest winning be the presentation of the Al Smith Friend of Agriculture Award. Al Smith entry by Bridget Smith, 7th grader from was the founder of Orchard Supply Monte Vista Christian School in WatsonHardware and donated 3,000 acres ville, will be on the placemat. About 18,000 (Swanton Pacific Ranch) in the north placemats will be distributed to restaurants throughout Santa Cruz County. coast to Cal Poly.

The $4,000 Jimmie Cox Memorial The award is presented annually to an individual, business or organization Scholarship, supported by American not involved in production agriculture AgCredit will be presented to a student

“Goewert” from page 6 “She leaves a legacy of exemplary guidance and insight that will motivate the next generation of leadership to continue the outstanding quality and compassionate nature of an MMS education,” Diffenbaugh said, thanking her for “inspirational leadership, hallmarked by brilliant educational initiatives, caring and ethical problem solving, sustainable financial oversight and unstoppable hard work and grit.”

McDonald voiced support for Goewert, saying, “I am truly delighted to welcome Ann and look forward to working with her and others to ensure a smooth transition of leadership.”

McDonald began her career in 1977 as an elementary school teacher in Washington State. She joined the Mount Madonna School faculty in 1987, and began working in administration in 1998.

She was co-head of school from 2007-2015, then head of school for the past five years.

During her 33 years, Mount Madonna School gained four full terms of accreditation with CAIS and WASC; awards and recognitions for creative writing, science, social studies and performing arts programs; league, division and state athletic championships; scholastic team awards for athletic teams, and an expanded middle and high school sport offerings.

Other significant achievements include successful capital campaigns for a new middle-high campus opened in 2004 and a 10,000-square-foot gymnasium, opened in 2018; expanded annual fundraising, and creation of an endowment fund to raise teacher salaries, add student scholarships and sustain the school.

“I enjoy the dynamic relationship building between teachers, students, staff and parents as we work together to create a stimulating and secure learning community,” said McDonald. “Mount Madonna School values reflect the importance of creating a trusting environment to practice honesty, respect and empathy, which supports the natural unfolding of the learning process. Students develop confidence in themselves as learners, take responsibility for their choices and make their own discoveries. The keys to motivated learning are keeping flexible and open thinking alive, learning to ask the right questions at the right time, and caring for one another.”

Goewert said she is committed to safeguarding Mount Madonna’s “legacy of excellence” and to “developing new opportunities to strengthen its academic program, enhance the student experience, and increase enrollment, diversity and equity on campus.” n

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2020 / 7

COMMUNITY NEWS

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Election Results as of March 12

n the March 6 election in Santa Cruz County, 68,098 people voted, a turnout of 59 percent, according to Gail Pellerin, county elections manager. Nearly 42 percent cast mail ballots, and 17 percent were cast at the polls.

County workers are still researching and processing ballots brought in on Election Day and provisional ballots.

Thousands of vote-by-mail ballots are being checked to make sure the signature matches the signature on file.

The county has until April 3 to certify the vote. For updated vote counts, see votescount.com If you want to observe activities, come to the Elections Office during business hours or for after hours call Tricia at 831345-3688 or Gail at 408-316-9745.

Superior Court Judge Nancy De La Pena: 44% Annrae Angel: 30% Jack Gordon: 25% District 5 Supervisor Bruce McPherson: 96% Write-in: 4% Measure R: Cabrillo College bond 55% needed to pass Yes: 52% No: 48% San Lorenzo Valley schools bond 55% needed to pass Yes: 54% No: 46%

Here are the local tallies as of March 12: District 1 Supervisor John Leopold: 46% Manu Koenig: 31% Mark Esquibel: 11% Betsy Riker: 5% Benjamin Cogan: 4% Donald “Kase” Kreutz: <1% District 2 Supervisor Zach Friend: 70% Becky Steinbruner: 30%

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U.S. Representative 18th District Anna Eshoo (D): 61% Rishi Kumar (D): 15% Phil Reynolds (R): 11% Richard Fox (R): 10% Bob Goodwin (L): 3%

State Senator 17th District John Laird (D) : 58% Maria Cadenas (D): 20% Vicki Nohrden (R): 18% John Nevill (D): 3%

U.S. Representative 20th District Jimmy Panetta (D): 67% Adam Bolanos Scow (D): 19% Jeff Gorman (R): 15%

State Assembly 29th District Mark Stone (D): 80% Shomir Banerjee (R): 19%

District Attorney Warns of Rental Scams

n advance of the summer vacation rental season, Santa Cruz County District Attorney Jeff Rosell is warning County residents about a scam involving rental home ads on websites such as Craigslist, Airbnb, and VRBO. Typically, scammers take a legitimate rental listing and post it to one these home rental sites. The scammers then claim that they own the property and that it is available, but for a variety of reasons, they are unable to personally show prospective renters the property.

The scammers’ goal is to collect payments from prospective renters before the prospective renters realize that the scammers do not own the property.

Some indications that a posting may be fraudulent are: The rent is much lower than other comparable rentals; the “owner” or representative is unable to meet face-to-face with prospective renters; and the “owner” or representative asks prospective renters for an upfront cash payment or to wire payment

State Assembly 30th District Robert Rivas (D): 80% Gregory Swett (R): 20%

through services such as Western Union or Money Gram.

Prospective renters should: • Only deal with property owners that you can meet in person; • Never wire payment in advance; • Never give out financial information such as account numbers, Social Security numbers, and PayPal information;

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• Never rent a property sight-unseen; • Never submit to credit or background checks until you’ve met the landlord in person. n ••• To report a suspected scam, contact the Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s Office Consumer Protection Division at (831) 454-2050.

Soquel schools parcels tax 2/3 needed to pass Yes: 63% No: 37% Scotts Valley sales tax Majority needed to pass Yes: 64% No: 36% Prop. 13: Public Education Bonds Majority needed to pass Yes: 56% No: 44% n

Burglary Arrest

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n Feb. 24, Erik De Santiago, 27, a Santa Cruz County resident, was arrested for two counts of burglary.

Detectives found on two different occasions De Santiago stole from the homes in La Selva Beach and Live Oak that he was hired to work on.

In the first incident he was hired by residents for outdoor work, once the family left, he entered the home Erik De Santiago through a back window and stole various items.

In the second incident, he was hired by a construction company to help with the remodel of a bathroom and kitchen. He returned to the residence two days later and stole jewelry from the home.

The Sheriff’s Office is looking for any additional victims. If you have hired De Santiago for work where items were stolen, contact Detective Jacob Pruger at (831) 454-7096. n

COMMUNITY BRIEFS Bay Federal is “Best in Class” Member Loyalty Group benchmark report has listed Capitola-based Bay Federal Credit Union as the “Best in Class” participant in surveys around new products.

MLG, which works with about 150 credit unions nationwide, analyzed surveys sent to members who had obtained a new product, such as a loan or a credit card. These surveys reflect how members feel about their interaction with a financial services officer in the branch.

Bay Federal members can now access their accounts from their smartwatch with Bay Federal’s new app. The app shows account balances and recent transactions — with no need to log in.

This app is not supported for Samsung devices running Tizen OS. For information, visit a branch, call the Member Service Center at 831.479.6000 or toll-free at 888.4BAYFED. ••• Goodwill to Support ALS Association With Fundraiser n March 25, the ALS Association Golden West Chapter will have representatives to raise money and awareness from 5-7 p.m. at three Goodwill Central Coast locations including Capitola, 1550 41st Ave., Capitola.

There is still no cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative illness that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord.

Each Goodwill Central Coast store location will donate and match up to $1,000 total all proceeds. Money raised will benefit the Golden West Chapter’s Walk to Defeat ALS, one of which will take place Saturday, October 3 in Monterey.

For information visit www.alsagoldenwest.org, or email info@alsagoldenwest. org. You can sign up or donate to the Walk to Defeat ALS at walks.alsagoldenwest.org.

••• Loch Lomond Area Gets Access Upgrades ew for the 2020 season, the Loch Lomond Recreation Area has gotten upgrades to restrooms, parking, and picnic areas in the Upper Loch View to improve accessibility for visitors with limited mobility.

The park, owned by the City of Santa Cruz, is managed by the Water Department.

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2, in Watsonville and Quik Stop #9063 in Watsonville.

Decoys are between the ages of 18-20 and are under the direct supervision of the Compliance Deputies throughout the operation.

••• Economic Summit to go Virtual he 6th Annual Monterey Bay Economic Partnership Regional Economic Summit, slated for April 29 at the Cocoanut Grove in Santa Cruz, will become a virtual summit to prevent coronavirus from spreading in Santa Cruz County, according to MBEP leaders.

This year ’s topics are the 2020 Census, housing, the food ecosystem and climate change, issues important to the region’s economic health.

Past summits have attracted hundreds of attendees from Santa Cruz, Monterey and San Benito counties to learn from each other.

Vince Barabba of Capitola, who twice served as director of the U.S. Census Bureau and author of “How Your Enterprise Can Make Better Decisions and Learn from Mistakes” (2019 Amazon), will speak in the morning.

To register, visit https://mbep.biz/events/ economic-summit/registration/ n

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A ramp makes picnic table at Loch Lomond in the Santa Cruz Mountains more accessible.

As of March 9, Loch Lomond Recreation Area hours were reduced to Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Row boats, paddle boats, Nucanoes and electric motor boats are available for rent. Permits are required for those over 21 consuming alcohol.

Hours are 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. in April, til 8 p.m. in May, 8:30 p.m. in June and July and 8 p.m. in August. ~~~ Since 2017 the Water Department has completed four projects to improve accessibility to parking, picnic facilities, restrooms, viewing areas, fishing and the Park Store.

For information visit www.cityofsantacruz. com/government/city-departments/water/ watershed/loch-lomond-recreation.

The vehicle entrance fee is $8. To reserve a picnic site, call 831-335-7424.

••• Retired Teachers’ April Lunch Cancelled Next Meeting Now Scheduled For June 3 he California Retired Teachers Association will have their bi-monthly luncheon at 11:30 a.m.

We d n e s d a y, June 3, at the Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos.

The April luncheon with Mary Altier and John Walker will share “A Photographic Tour Through Mongolia” has been cancelled due to the coronavirus guidelines.

Attendees can choose between meat and vegetarian for lunch. Send your name, contact info, meal choice and a check for $25 CalRTA Div 7 to Glenda Hastings, 6013 Thurber Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95065 or if later than May 26 call Glenda at (831) 476-5886.

••• Deputies Issue Alcohol Violations n February 27, members of the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office Alcohol and Tobacco Compliance Units conducted a sale of alcohol and tobacco compliance and decoy operation at on

and off-sale retail stores in Santa Cruz County.

The goal is to limit access to alcoholic beverages and tobacco products to underage individuals.

The decoy was sold alcohol at Panda Inn, Aptos, Sid’s Smokehouse, Aptos, and Severino’s, Aptos. Store employees were each issued misdemeanor citations with court dates.

The decoy attempted to purchase alcohol but was refused at Pizza 1 Restaurant in Aptos, Mariscos El Nayarit

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Closed

Cabrillo College, Public Schools, Libraries, and More

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By Jondi Gumz

n a situation that is unprecedented, all school districts in Santa Cruz County, all public libraries, Cabrillo College, and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, one of the county’s largest employers, all county parks programs and the Aptos farmers market have closed to avert the spread of the deadly coronavirus COVID-19, which has killed 6,000 people around the world, including a reported 63 in the U.S., five in California.

The John Hopkins University dashboard reported 162,687 COVID-19 cases, with nearly half of those recovered, and 6,065 deaths, as of March 14.

All public schools in the county will close from Monday, March 16 thru Friday, March 20.

However, according to the RegisterPajaronian, the Pajaro Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees held an emergency meeting Saturday morning, and unanimously agreed to close all district schools for two weeks, allowing most employees to work from home.

Also, parents on NextDoor have been told that Rio Del Mar Elementary School in Aptos, where one of the seven local cases was confirmed, will remain closed until April 6.

Other local cases are related to a cruise, a trip to Seattle, the housemate of a staffer at Kirby School. County officials have not provided information on the other three.

Public school administrators will reassess this week whether an extension of school closures beyond March 20 will be necessary.

Santa Cruz County Public Health Officer, Dr. Gail Newel, reported that while the number of cases in the county remains small, the Santa Cruz County Public Health Division expects those numbers to grow significantly in the coming days and weeks which may require a continued response.

Pajaro Valley school officials said parents can pick up breakfasts and lunches in the morning at schools all week; a schedule is at pvusd.net.

Cabrillo abrillo College also announced all classes will move to online instruction beginning Monday, March 16.

Cabrillo College President Matt Wetstein announced in an open letter Friday, March 13, that the school would be moving to online classes for the rest of March (which includes Spring Break).

The decision comes in the wake of the county’s public schools closing March

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16-20, community college athletics contests being suspended by the state, and the number of cases increasing from four to seven in Santa Cruz County.

Cabrillo’s move to online instruction involves all classes, including lab, art studio and physical activity courses that normally require face-to-face work. All Cabrillo classes will either meet online or be cancelled next week.

Spring break will still be held the week of March 23-28, so there will be at minimum a two-week break from face-toface instruction (March 16–30).

Services closed as of March 16 include: the Cafeteria, Drip Coffee kiosks, the Childcare Center, the Dental Hygiene Clinic, Adaptive Physical Education Courses, and Pino Alto Restaurant/Sesnon House.

Performances of “Considering Matthew Shepard” in the Crocker Theater have been cancelled. If you have tickets for this weekend’s performances, contact the Cabrillo Box Office to request a refund.

Community Education and Extension classes are expected to move to online delivery or be cancelled or postponed effective Monday, March 16.

Libraries usan Nemitz, director of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries, said the main library and all branches would close for two weeks, effective 5 p.m. March 14. Services provided by the Bookmobile also are suspended.

Nemitz cited the social distancing guidelines issued by county Health Services, which called for an end to mass gatherings and for people to stay an arm’s length away from each other.

During the closure, library staff will provide reference and information services via phone, text, and email. To access these services, call 831-427-7713, text 831.264.0647, or email elibrary@santacruzpl.org.

The system’s Virtual Library provides access to thousands of eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines, news, movies, and music 24/7 from home with your library card and PIN/ password. Research collections and other eLearning options are also available 24/7 from home. using your library card and PIN/password from the library’s research page. Educators and homeschool leaders without access to online teaching platforms may try Brainfuse Help Now’s MEET.

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To decrease anxiety, the libraries have created a period of zero overdue fines for the rest of March and all of April for any materials returned late.

Farmers Market he Aptos Farmers Market at Cabrillo College is closing for two weeks, March 21 and 28.

A student selling lettuce and tomatoes grown at Cabrillo said ripe produce for the next two weeks would probably be given away.

La Marea of the Sea, a Santa Cruz vendor selling oysters and fish and shrimp tacos, put up a sign welcoming orders by text, 213-219-0743, during the closure.

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County Parks anta Cruz County Parks cancelled all programs, events, activities in facilities, and any rentals effective March 16 through March 30, with plans to reevaluate the situation at that time and determine next steps.

Simpkins Swim Center remains open, because according to the Centers for Disease Control, there is no evidence COVID-19 is spread through using pools.

County Parks is focused on keeping common areas including the main lobby, restrooms and locker rooms disinfected and sanitized.

Services or reservations of cancelled activities may be rescheduled, credited or refunded. Contact reservations@scparks. com or (831) 454-7938 for information.

County Park Friends Santa Cruz said they must cancel the 3rd Annual Adaptive Egg Hunt April 11 and postpone the MyPlayClub Inclusive Play series planned for LEO’s Haven.

County Parks remain open, and the Friends encouraged people to take advantage of them.

“We are reminded and heartened by the power of our parks and public spaces to serve your mental and physical health

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even during this difficult time,” wrote Mariah Roberts, Executive Director, Terry Corwin, Board Chair, and Tricia Potts, Program Director, in an email message.

“We are rallying with other non-profit partners to combine resources and get creative to support you,” they wrote. “Please see below to learn about ideas and check our website and Facebook regularly to get the latest from home. We are in this together, even from a safe social distance.”

A virtual story time for elementary kids, for example, is planned for noon March 16 with Live Like Coco Foundation on the County Park Friends Santa Cruz Facebook page, watchable on mobile devices.

Twin Lakes Church win Lakes Church in Aptos announced the suspension of in-person services, and the availability of services via livestreaming for March 14-15 and March 21-22.

Pastor Rene Schlaepfer, on the church website, wrotes, “We will be streaming on YouTube, Facebook Live, and Vimeo during our regular service times, Saturday at 6 pm, and Sunday 9 am & 10:45 am. If you don’t have internet access, we can make a DVD of the service available to you.”

He added, “Is this ideal? No. I can’t wait to get back to in-person, live services!

But it will be exciting. Let’s get creative.

Gather your family during our live stream and make it fun.”

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Boardwalk he Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Arcades, Boardwalk Bowl and the Boardwalk’s Cocoanut Grove event facility will close from March 13 through March 27.

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UC Santa Cruz C Santa Cruz announced the suspension of in-person classes through April 3, encouraging students to study from home. Events such as Alumni Weekend April 3-5, have been cancelled but the campus has not closed, with students housing, dining and health services remaining open.

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Santa Cruz Warriors he NBA suspended the season after two players with Utah Jazz were confirmed to have COVID-19, and its G League season in which the Santa Cruz Warriors play, is suspended as well. n

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COMMUNITY NEWS

County Guidance to Prevent COVID-19 Spread O n March 9, Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency issued guidelines for “social distancing” effective through March 22 to prevent spread of the coronavirus COVID-19.

One key recommendation is to cancel non-essential gatherings of 50 people or more, such as concerts, sporting events, conventions, and community events including religious services. For events not cancelled, the county recommends having hand-washing capabilities, hand sanitizers and tissues available, frequently cleaning commonly touched surface areas like counter tops and handrails and finding ways to create physical space to minimize close contact.

The Santa Cruz County Business Expo, which attracts 1,500 people each year, will go on March 11 at the Coconut Grove in Santa Cruz, according to the Santa Cruz Chamber of Commerce, the sponsoring organization, with hand sanitizer, a handshake ban and advice to stay an arm’s length from one another.

Moreover, families should prepare for school closures.

overall community health. By limiting opportunities for transmission, we can slow its spread.

Each of us must do our part to protect our older citizens and vulnerable individuals at risk of serious outcomes should they be exposed.

These recommendations have been made in consultation with the California Department of Public Health, based on the best information we have at this time.

They are also in line with actions taken by other counties and states with community spread of COVID-19.

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Aptos Natural Foods posted a recipe for do-it-yourself hand sanitizer since the store is out of stock.

Here is the county guidance: COVID-19 needs people to spread.

Although these measures will cause dis-

ruption to the local economy and our daily lives, they are intended to interrupt and slow the spread of the virus and protect

Vulnerable Populations: Limit Outings • People who are 60 years of age and older.

The risk increases significantly thereafter and escalates with age, with persons over age 80 in the highest risk category.

• People, regardless of age, with underlying health conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, or chronic lung diseases like COPD, as well as those with severely weakened immune systems.

“County Guidance” page 13

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2020 / 11

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He got the Aptos coaching job eight months ago. At Foothill High in Pleasanton, his teams won more than 100 games in seven years and went to the North Coast Section playoffs five times.

He’s a 2011 winner of the Darrell Hirashima award for coaching excellence.

And he was a Hall of Fame basketball player at Ohlone College before winning a scholarship to play at Eastern New Mexico University.

He brought on his brother, Chris Funk, as assistant coach at Aptos.

Learning of the new coach, “I was really excited,” Madison said.

For Emma, who has played varsity for four years, this was her first year as a starter.

“I really like defense,” she said. “Being able to close out.”

That means shutting down the opponent.

She likes being able to move around a lot, and diving for loose balls while her sister Madison is know for steals Natalia, who is 6-foot-1, led the team in rebounds, 10.5 per game, and blocks, 2.2 per game, and steals, 3.1 per game.

Her sister Jasmine, a sophomore, was second in steals, 1.8 per game.

Gabby led in assists, 2.8 per game, and was second in points per game with 11.6.

“We all played really well together,” Emma said. “Four of us have been playing together since fifth grade — Bradley Elementary, then Aptos Junior High.”

She said students are one reason for the large turnout at Aptos games.

“Our senior class was really supportive,” she said.

Madison said she intends to go to a state college, but is not sure where.

Emma said she will go to Cabrillo College in Aptos, focusing on academics instead of sports.

“I want to become a teacher,” she said.

Gabby, who will study business and communications in college, said every day of the season was special because of the girls on the team.

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Natalia Ackerman sports a tired smile after scoring a record 34 points against Lick-Wilmerding.

“I couldn’t have asked for a better group of girls to be able to make these memories with,” she said.

As for the new coach, she said, “He made it a really fun senior year and I really couldn’t have asked for anything more ...

I’m happy to say I was on his first Aptos team.”

She said he “did everything differently — we had a whole new system — but that’s to be expected with a new coach…

He did it his way and it was effective. It got us to where we got this year.”

For her, there were no surprises.

“Our season went the way we wanted it to, for the most part, and we accomplished what we wanted,” she said. “Along the way, each time we achieved one of our goals, we knew that it was due to our hard work.” n ••• Cover Photo: Seniors: Natalia Ackerman, Madison Stefanini, Emma Stefanini, Gabby Giuffre, Rylee Mennie, and Rhealyn Dimatulac; Juniors: Angelina Ontiveros, Mikayla Garcia, and Santana Rigor; sophomores: Jasmine Ackerman, Jaylen Dang, Haley Ortega, and Erin Schmidt.

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Aptos’ defense is in position against Vista del Lago.

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

“County Guidance” from page 11 • For vulnerable populations, don’t go to gatherings (of about 50 people or more) unless it is essential. Avoid people who are sick.

Workplace and Businesses: Minimize Exposure • Reduce nonessential, work-related employee travel.

• Minimize the number of employees working within arm’s length of one another, including minimizing or canceling large in-person meetings and conferences of about 50 or more.

• Urge employees to stay home when they are sick and maximize flexibility in sick leave or other leave benefits.

• Do not require a doctor’s note for employees who are sick.

• Consider use of telecommuting options.

• Some people need to be at work to provide essential services of great benefit to the community. They can take steps in their workplace to minimize risk.

Large Gatherings: Cancel Non-essential Events • Recommend cancelling or postponing large gatherings of about 50 or more, such as concerts, sporting events, conventions or large community events.

• Do not attend any events or gatherings if sick.

• For events that aren’t cancelled, we recommend having hand washing capabilities, hand sanitizers and tissues available, frequently cleaning commonly touched surface areas like counter tops and handrails, finding ways to create physical space to minimize close contact as much as possible.

• See California Department of Public Health Mass Gatherings Guidance March 7, 2020.

Schools: Safety First • If there is a confirmed case of COVID-19 at a school, the Santa Cruz County Public Health Division will work with the school and the district to determine the best measures, including potential school dismissal.

• Do not go to school if sick.

• If you have a child with chronic health conditions, consult your doctor about school attendance.

• Equip all schools and classrooms with hand sanitizers and tissues.

• Recommend rescheduling or cancelling medium to large events that are not essential. • Recommend cancelling field trips.

• Explore remote teaching and online options to continue learning.

• Families should prepare for potential closures.

For general information on COVID-19 call 211, or text coronavirus to 211211, or visit www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus for updates and links to state and federal guidance.

Public and Commercial Transportation: Cleaning and Protection • Increase cleaning of vehicles paying special attention to commonly touched surface areas.

• Provide hand washing supplies in stations and hand sanitizers and tissues in vehicles.

Health Care Settings: Avoid as possible, protect the vulnerable • All health care facilities including long term care facilities, must have a COVID-19 plan in accordance with CDPH guidelines.

• All health care facilities, including long term care facilities, must screen all staff and visitors for illness and turn away those with symptoms.

• The general public should avoid going to medical settings such as hospitals, nursing homes and longterm care facilities. If you are ill, call your health care provider ahead of time, and you may be able to be served by phone or receive other instructions.

• Do not visit emergency rooms unless it is essential.

Everyone: Do your part he best way for all community members to reduce the risk of getting sick, from many illnesses including colds, flu and COVID-19 are: • Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

• Cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow, not your hand, or use a tissue and discard.

• Stay home if you are sick.

• Avoid touching your face.

• Avoid shaking hands.

• If you have recently returned from a country, state or region with ongoing COVID-19 infections, monitor your health and follow the instructions of public health officials.

family will manage a prolonged school dismissal.

• Plan for how you can care for a sick family member without getting sick yourself.

• Take care of each other and check in by phone with friends, family and neighbors that are vulnerable to serious illness or death if they get COVID-19.

• Keep common spaces clean to help maintain a healthy environment for you and others. Frequently touched surfaces should be cleaned regularly with disinfecting sprays, wipes

household

cleaning

••• For general information on COVID-19 call 211, or text coronavirus to 211211, or visit www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus for updates and links to state and federal guidance.

Here are some more information sources: Health Professionals: https://www.cdc. gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/hcp/index.html Schools and Communities: https:// tinyurl.com/vgwkn8s (full link: https://www. cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/ index.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww. cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov% 2Fpreparing-individuals-communities.html) Higher Risk: https://www.cdc.gov/corona virus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/index.html California Department of Public Health: https://www.cdph.ca.gov

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There is no recommendation for healthy people to wear masks to prevent themselves from getting sick. You can also prepare for the possible disruption caused by an outbreak. Preparedness actions include: • Prepare to work from home if that is possible for your job, and your employer.

• Make sure you have a supply of all essential medications for your family.

• Prepare a childcare plan if you or a caregiver are sick.

• Make arrangements about how your

or common products. n

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2020 / 13

CALIFORNIA NEWS

Salmon Fishery Opening Delayed C alifornia’s recreational salmon fishery will open in ocean waters on Saturday, April 4, in the Monterey management area from Pigeon Point (37° 11’ 00” N. latitude) south to the U.S./ Mexico border.

In the Fort Bragg and San Francisco management areas, between Horse Mountain (40° 05’ 00” N. latitude) and Pigeon Point, the recreational salmon fishery will open on Saturday, April 11, rather than April 4.

The Klamath Management Zone, Horse Mountain to the Oregon state line, will remain closed for April. The remaining 2020 season dates will be finalized next month.

The Pacific Fishery Management Council made the decision to open sections of the California coast on April 4 and April 11. The delayed opening will help managers achieve conservation goals for Klamath River fall Chinook, which are projected to return in low numbers this year, while providing anglers with opportunity to catch Sacramento River fall Chinook, according to a California Fish & Wildlife announcement.

Traditionally, fishing in the Monterey area is better early in the season, prompting recreational fishing representatives to prioritize opening this area ahead of others on the California coast. Delaying the opener in areas to the north is expected to allow for more fishing opportunity there later in the year, when catch rates are typically better.

Final season dates will be decided during the April 3-10 PFMC meeting in Vancouver, Washington. The public can

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comment on the PFMC’s season proposals at that meeting or submit comments at www.pcouncil.org.

In April, the minimum size limit in the Fort Bragg management area is 20 inches total length. In the San Francisco and Monterey management areas, the minimum size limit is 24 inches total length.

Anglers are advised to check for

updated information when planning a salmon fishing trip. Season dates, bag/ possession limit information and gear restrictions can be found at: www.wildlife. ca.gov/oceansalmon.

Public notification of any in-season change to conform state regulations to federal regulations is made through the National Marine Fisheries Service ocean salmon hotline at (800) 662-9825. n

COVID-19

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

What does this mean for Santa Cruz County Businesses?

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ike all of you, we’ve been monitoring the evolving global impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and are in constant communication with the local businesses it is affecting. Small- and medium-sized businesses across Santa Cruz County are scrambling to figure out how to deal with the disruption of operations. We hear and relate to these struggles loud and clear.

Although Santa Cruz County currently only has seven confirmed cases of COVID-19, our community is still taking action to prevent the possibility of its spread. Some local updates of the status of COVID-19’s impact include the postponement or cancellation of: Aptos farmers market, starting March 21 Aptos Wine Wander Santa Cruz Symphony concerts Santa Cruz flea market at former drive-in theater Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, concessions and Cocoanut Grove Boardwalk Bowl, closed as of Sunday Cabrillo College’s dental hygiene clinic and Pino Alto Restaurant/Sesnon House Santa Cruz Warriors Watsonville Film Festival Ocean Speedway Watsonville flea market at fairgrounds Roaring Camp’s all-chamber mixer Tea & fashion fundraiser at Seascape Beach Resort Museum of Art & History Episcopal churches throughout California Santa Cruz Bridge Center Seymour Marine Discovery Center Santa Cruz Kids Day Top Dog Film Festival Allman Betts Band at Rio Theatre Ayurveda Unveiled film at Rio Theatre Santa Cruz Chamber Business Expo Yoga Within, Aptos

Performances of Considering Matthew Shepard at Cabrillo Georgiana Bruce Kirby School Porter Memorial Library Agriculture Day Spring Luncheon Sea Otter Classic in Monterey County Pajaro Valley Chamber of Commerce mixer Pajaro Valley Unified School District job fair Cabrillo Community Education classes Capitola Recreation classes City of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation classes, programs and events County of Santa Cruz Parks classes, programs and events City of Watsonville offices (police, fire and water are exempt)

Some are opting to create virtual events, including Twin Lakes Church weekend services, the Santa Cruz County Science and Engineering Fair and the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership Economic Summit.

••• ore than ever, Santa Cruz County businesses need our support. Here are some ways you, as a consumer, can help: • Shop small online from your favorite local retailer • Don’t put your current subscriptions on hold — local businesses still need your support!

• Buy a gift certificate from your favorite family-owned business • Purchase your beauty products from your local salon • Support local arts by pre-purchasing tickets for later in the year • Subscribe to a local home delivery programs to receive produce directly to your home • Buy a gift card from your favorite small-business restaurant

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• Purchase your coffee in bulk from your favorite local coffee shop • Leave positive reviews for small businesses you appreciate • Share your appreciation on social media • Snap a photo of your product and share it on social media • What’s your favorite local business?

How can you support them during this time?

Trust that every business in our community is putting precautions in place for the sole purpose of guiding us towards a healthier community. In a disruptive situation such as COVID-19, supporting Santa Cruz County’s local economy is more important than ever.

By supporting local businesses, we are able to keep money in the community to support other important initiatives through local sales tax earned: from

education to the police and fire departments, to parks, and other publicly formed programs.

Of course, the top priority, now more than ever is to take care of yourself. Drink lots of water, get sleep, move your body daily, eat fruits and vegetables, and wash your hands — a lot!

There are lots of tiny actions we can take that will mean the world to small business owners in our community. Let’s make it happen. n ••• Serving our community for over 29 years, Patrice C. Edwards

Santa Cruz Flea Market (at former Sky View Drive-In Theater)

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2020 / 15

COMMUNITY NEWS

Sutter Invests in Health Campus S anta Cruz Community Health and Dientes Community Dental Care have announced a $1 million investment from Sutter Health toward construction and operation of new medical and dental clinics at 1500 Capitola Road in Live Oak. The funding will arrive over five years.

Santa Cruz Community Health will receive $160,000 a year toward its 20,000-square-foot medical clinic and Dientes will receive $40,000 a year toward its 11,000-square-foot dental clinic.

“As a not-for-profit health network, Sutter focuses on improving the health of those inside and outside the walls of our hospitals and care centers,” said Stephen Gray, chief administrative officer for Sutter Maternity & Surgery Center of Santa Cruz and Palo Alto Medical Foundation. “We know that when people have access to preventive screening and routine healthcare, their health improves.

This investment builds on Sutter’s commitment to improve the health of the entire community we serve.”

MidPen Housing, which owns and manages 13 affordable housing communities in Santa Cruz County, will build 57 rental units on the 3.7-acre site, which was owned by the Santa Cruz County Redevelopment Agency.

The health and housing campus, the first of its kind in Santa Cruz County, was estimated to be a $46 million project in 2018.

The project is expected to serve 10,000 patients a year, provide affordable housing for 57 households and create more than 60 new jobs.

Services are much needed, according to Supervisor John Leopold, who represents the area.

“Five years ago there were no medical offices in Live Oak,” he said.

“A community of our size needs good

Leslie Conner (left) of Santa Cruz Community Health, and Laura Marcus of Dientes, flank a rendering of the new health and housing campus to be built at 1500 Capitola Road, Live Oak. access to medical and dental services to secure large contributions that will and housing campus will address a tripleand housing that is affordable to all fam- make construction possible,” said Laura goal of increasing access to healthcare, ilies. This new development will help Marcus, CEO of Dientes, founded in growing affordable housing, and creating everyone in the community from small 1992. “Sutter Health has a proven track economic opportunity. record of improving the health in this Dientes and Santa Cruz Community children to families to seniors.”

Planning for this project started in region, so it was no surprise that the not- Health expect to break ground in 2020 and for-profit system that includes Palo Alto open in 2021. MidPen will break ground on 2017.

“I’m so pleased we are starting Medical Foundation stepped up to help. the housing component in 2021 and open This is truly a remarkable demonstration in 2022. n of how we can collaborate for the overall good of our community.”

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Capital Campaign “Projects like this one can transform communities. This initiative will bring affordable healthcare and housing to the heart of Live Oak,” said Leslie Conner, CEO of Santa Cruz Community Health, which has served the underserved since 1980. “We hope the early funding we’ve secured will be a catalyst for more donations in the coming weeks and months.”

The integrated, state-of-the-art health

COMMUNITY NEWS

Second Harvest Honors Hunger Fighters of the Year

Food Bank Surpasses Goal of 4.8 Million Meals

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n March 5, Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County hosted one of the organization’s biggest events of the year.

The annual awards dinner, at Hotel Paradox in Santa Cruz, honored people whose efforts helped make the 2019 Annual Holiday Food and Fund Drive the most successful yet.

Honorees included businesses, schools and individuals who raised 4,819,098 meals, exceeding the ambitious goal of 4.8 million meals set by the drive’s co-chairs, Megan Martinelli of Watsonville and John Laird, former California secretary for natural resources.

The event marked the end of John Laird’s two-year term. Laird passed the baton to new co-chair, County Administrative Officer Carlos Palacios, who will chair the event with Megan Martinelli for the Holiday Food & Fund Drive that begins in November.

Jerry Souza, representing Dignity Health Dominican Hospital, the 2019

Holiday Food & Fund Drive presenting sponsor, accepted the President’s Cup Award.

He explained the importance of community involvement in fighting hunger and food insecurity in Santa Cruz County and the importance of good nutrition for good health.

In addition to the awards received by those who participated in the Annual Food & Fund Drive, the evening celebrated the Hunger Fighters of the Year.

They are John Steele, food drive coordinator for 12 years at University of California Santa Cruz and a leader in fundraising and food insecurity awareness at the college, and Santiago Tehandón, a Second Harvest volunteer for 12 years who has served as a “Nutrition Ambassador” and is currently volunteering at three nutrition education sites helping organize and distribute fresh produce, interacting with the community and promoting healthy food. n ••• Photos Credit: Jennifer Welling

ABOVE: Carlos Palacios (left) stands with John Laird at the awards dinner. Palacios is taking over from Laird as Holiday Food & Fund Drive co-chair for 2020, along with Megan Martinelli.

BELOW: Andrew Trowbridge, center, won the Outstanding Community Spirit Award.

ABOVE: Dignity Health Dominican Hospital, the Holiday Food & Fund Drive 2019 presenting sponsors, filled a table at the awards dinner.

BELOW: Capitola/Aptos Rotary received the Rotary Interact Award along with San Lorenzo Interact Club.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2020 / 17

COMMUNITY NEWS

Aegis Limits Visitation

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By Jondi Gumz

egis of Aptos, a senior community with 88 apartments on Soquel Drive, has moved to limit visits by visiting nurses, physical therapists and entertainers to protect residents from the COVID-19 outbreak, Griselda Galvan, the general manager, said March 13.

“Our population is the more vulnerable,” she said. “They are our family.”

Elders are most at risk from the coronavirus, which broke out in China in late December and has spread globally. A study of 191 people stricken in Wuhan, China, published in The Lancet, found patients who died were on average 69 years old while the average age of survivors was 52 years old.

Johns Hopkins University’s dashboard reports 145,369 cases and 5,429 deaths, with 71,694 recovered. Three-fifths of the fatalities are in China, with more than 1,260 deaths in Italy, 500 in Iran and more than 130 in Spain.

As of March 13, the U. S. reported 1,629 cases and 41 deaths, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control. California reported 237 cases and five deaths.

Santa Cruz County has seven cases.

President Trump, at a March 13 press conference, announced a ramp-up of testing, which had been in short supply, describing plans for drive-through screenings in Walmart parking lots and a new test developed by Roche and approved by the Food and Drug Administration in record time.

Executives of Target, CVS and Walgreens, which have stores in Santa Cruz County, participated in the press conference and said they would provide space for test centers.

Executives of LabCorp and Quest Diagnostics, both of which have testing offices in Santa Cruz County, voiced their support. Both companies are testing specimens sent in by medical practitioners.

Trump said visits to nursing homes should be suspended except in end-of-life situations.

Galvan said Aegis started making changes last week to protect residents after getting advice from the parent company, based in Washington State, which has twice as many COVID-19 cases as California.

Shopping trips have stopped to reduce exposure. Two seatings are available in the

dining room so as to accommodate the state guidance on social distancing, and activities are limited to 10 people at a time.

So far, the policies seem to be working.

“Everybody is OK,” Galvan said, noting family can visit a loved one nearing the end of life. n

$4 Million Housing Trust Loan Benefits Seniors

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n March 5, Monterey Bay Economic Partnership and Housing Trust Silicon Valley announced a $4 million loan to BRIDGE Housing for a portion of the acquisition of Paloma Del Mar senior apartments in Freedom with the goal to maintain affordability for lowincome senior households.

The loan is part of a joint program between Housing Trust Silicon Valley and Monterey Bay Housing Trust, designed to promote the development of affordable housing throughout Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito counties.

Monterey Bay Housing Trust is a program of the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership. This is the Trust’s fifth loan since its inception in 2017.

Paloma Del Mar senior apartments, which are nearing 30 years in age, are at 2030 Pajaro Lane, Freedom, a community in unincorporated Santa Cruz County.

These affordable rental homes for seniors on fixed incomes were in jeopardy of converting to market-rate housing if BRIDGE Housing did not acquire them and commit to maintaining affordable rents.

No current tenants of the 130 units will be displaced as a result of the purchase.

“This investment from the Monterey Bay Housing Trust will help ensure that some of the most vulnerable seniors in our community continue to have affordable homes,” said Bud Colligan, Monterey Bay Economic Partnership board member and founder of Monterey Bay Housing Trust.

“Preserving the affordable housing we already have and reducing displacement

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is a critical way to address the regional housing crisis,” said Kevin Zwick, CEO of Housing Trust Silicon Valley. “We’re proud of our work with Monterey Bay Economic Partnership and are thankful we can help the residents of Paloma Del Mar keep the places they call home.”

The Monterey Bay Housing Trust has received contributions from public and private community partners: South Swell

Ventures, Santa Cruz County, City of Santa Cruz, City of Watsonville, City of Salinas, Monterey County, City of Gonzales, United Way Monterey County, and the David & Lucile Packard Foundation.

In addition, Housing Trust has leveraged investments from Dignity Health and others.

The Monterey Bay Housing Trust loan also leveraged Housing Trust Silicon Valley’s other resources for an additional loan of $13.4 million – resulting in the organization’s biggest investment to date in the Monterey Bay region.

“For seniors, especially those with lower incomes, it makes all the difference in the world to have a stable, affordable place to live,” said Cynthia A. Parker, president and CEO of BRIDGE Housing. “We’re grateful for this innovative partnership and loan, which will help us preserve the affordability of Paloma Del Mar for the long term.”

“The preservation of this important affordable housing asset, particularly for our community’s seniors, is just as impactful as our work to add housing,” said Matt Huffaker, Watsonville city manager. n

COMMUNITY NEWS

Habitat Postpones Volunteer Building H abitat for Humanity Monterey Bay issued the following update March 13 in wake of the COVID-19 outbreak: ••• ur work at Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay is about building community: We bring people together to build a world where everyone has a decent place to live. In the face of growing concerns over the novel coronavirus COVID-19, we want to ensure – first and foremost – the health and safety of this community while continuing to fulfill our mission.

As this situation evolves, we are closely monitoring advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local agencies.

Currently, our two ReStores and construction sites are open. However, to protect the health of our volunteers, clients, and staff, we are taking the following measures and recommending the following precautions:

O

1) Volunteer shifts at construction sites are postponed until April 1.

2) Per CDC recommendations, anyone who is exhibiting cold, flu, fever, or respiratory illness symptoms is asked to refrain from joining a Habitat event or build or from visiting a Habitat ReStore or office until you are free of such symptoms for at least 48 hours without the use of medication.

3) Similarly, anyone who has potentially been exposed to the virus through travel to one of the areas designated by the CDC as level 3 or who has been on a cruise ship is also asked to refrain from joining a Habitat event or build or from visiting a Habitat ReStore or office. Additionally, please refrain from visiting us if a member of your household or close contact has potentially been exposed.

4) If you belong to a higher-risk group, we recommend that you refrain from volunteering until the virus has been well contained. Higher-risk populations include older adults and those with serious chronic medical

conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease.

5) We are observing heightened cleaning and sanitization practices in all volunteer venues. We are ensuring easy access to handwashing stations, and we encourage volunteers to bring their own alcohol-based hand sanitizers.

6) We are limiting gatherings and reducing volunteer numbers to allow for social distancing at all volunteer venues.

7) Handwashing is your best protection!

8) If you need to cough or sneeze, turn away from others and cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue. Put used

tissues in the trash and wash your hands afterward.

9) Avoid touching your eyes, nose, mouth, or face.

••• Your health and safety are our top priority. We will continue to follow the best available advice, and to listen to our community, as the situation progresses.

Please know that the above protocols may change as we receive more information about the situation. In the meantime, we thank you for helping us keep our community healthy today, so that we can keep building a stronger tomorrow. n

Road Work Starts on Soquel Drive Frontage Road

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he County of Santa Cruz Department of Public Works has announced that road maintenance work will be performed on Soquel Dr. between Freedom Boulevard and Rio Del Mar Blvd, Mon., March 30, through Fri., April 10, weather permitting.

This section of Soquel Drive will be reduced to one lane traffic control, to all traffic between 9a.m. and 4 p.m.

The Department of Public Works would like the motoring public to avoid this area and seek alternate routes during these times.

Questions may be directed to Alex Sandoval at (831) 477-3919.

For up-to-date information on County maintained roads in Santa Cruz County, visit: www.sccroadclosure.org. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2020 / 19

CALIFORNIA NEWS

Gov. Newsom’s Ex. Order on Pandemic

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n March 12, Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a new executive order further enhancing California’s ability to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Governor’s order: • Waives the one-week waiting period for people who are unemployed and/ or disabled as a result of COVID-19; • Delays the deadline for state tax filing by 60 days for individuals and businesses unable to file on time based on compliance with public health requirements related to COVID-19 filings; • Directs residents to follow public health directives and guidance, including to cancel large non-essential gatherings that do not meet state criteria; • Readies the state to commandeer property for temporary residences and medical facilities for quarantining, isolating or treating individuals; • Allows local or state legislative bodies to hold meetings via teleconference and to make meetings accessible electronically; and • Allows local and state emergency administrators to act quickly to protect public health The full executive order can be found at https://www.gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads /2020/03/3.12.20-EO-N-25-20-COVID-19.pdf.

Last night, Governor Newsom and state public health officials announced that gatherings should be postponed or canceled across the state until at least the end of March.

Non-essential gatherings must be limited to no more than 250 people, while smaller events can proceed only if the organizers can implement social distancing of 6 feet per person. Gatherings of individuals

California Gov. Gavin Newsom talks about what his executive order will cover in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic at Thursday, March 12th press conference.

• If you’re unable to work due to medical who are at higher risk for severe illness quarantine or illness, you may qualify from COVID-19 should be limited to no for Disability Insurance. Those who have more than 10 people, while also following lost a job or have had their hours reduced social distancing guidelines. for reasons related to COVID-19 may be “Each of us has extraordinary power to able to partially recover their wages by slow the spread of this disease,” said Govfiling an unemployment insurance claim. ernor Newsom in announcing the state’s • If a worker or a family member is sick or new policy last night. “Not holding that for preventative care when civil authorconcert or community event can have casities recommend quarantine, workers cading effects — saving dozens of lives and may use accrued paid sick leave in preserving critical health care resources accordance with the law. that your family may need a month from • If workers are unable to do their usual now. The people in our lives who are most job because they were exposed to and at risk – seniors and those with underlying contracted COVID-19 during the regular health conditions — are depending on all course of their work, they may be eligible of us to make the right choice.” for workers’ compensation benefits. All information and resources can be found State Efforts to Assist at Ca.Gov/Coronavirus2019 California Workers If You Think You’re Sick Call ahead: alifornia will continue acting swiftly to help workers hurt by COVID-19. If you are experiencing symptoms of Affected workers can visit the Labor & COVID-19 and may have had contact Workforce Development Agency’s website with a person with COVID-19, or recently to review what benefits are available to traveled to countries with apparent community spread, call your health care them. For instance, • If you’re unable to work because you are provider or local public health department caring for an ill or quarantined family first before seeking medical care so that member with COVID-19 you may appropriate precautions can be taken.

California’s Response: We have been qualify for Paid Family Leave. actively and extensively planning with our local public health and health care delivery systems. Here are some of the things we are already doing: • As in any public health event, the California Department of Public Health’s Medical and Health Coordination Center has been activated and is coordinating public health response efforts across the state.

• California continues to prepare and respond in coordination with federal and local partners, hospitals and physicians.

• Gov. Newsom declared a State of Emergency to make additional resources available, formalize emergency actions already underway across multiple state agencies and departments, and help the state prepare for broader spread of COVID-19.

• Governor Gavin Newsom requested the Legislature make up to $20 million available for state government to respond to the spread of COVID-19.

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20 / March 15th 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

• California activated the State Operations Center to its highest level to coordinate response efforts across the state.

• 24 million more Californians are now eligible for free medically necessary COVID-19 testing.

• California made available some of its emergency planning reserves of 21 million N95 filtering face piece masks for use in certain health care settings to ease shortages of personal protective equipment.

• The Public Health Department is providing information, guidance documents, and technical support to local health departments, health care facilities, providers, schools, universities, colleges, and childcare facilities across California • The California Employment Development Department is encouraging individuals who are unable to work due to exposure to COVID-19 to file a Disability Insurance claim.

• EDD is also encouraging employers who are experiencing a slowdown in their businesses or services as a result of the Coronavirus impact on the economy to apply for an Unemployment Insurance work sharing program.

• California continues to work in partnership with the federal government to aid in the safe return of 962 Californians from the Grand Princess cruise ship. This mission is centered around protecting the health of the passengers, and ensuring that when the passengers disembark, the public health of the United States, the State of California, and partner communities is protected.

• The Public Health Department is coordinating with federal authorities and local health departments that have implemented screening, monitoring and, in some cases quarantine of returning travelers.

• In coordination with the CDC, state and local health departments, we are actively responding to cases of COVID-19.

• The Public Health Department is supporting hospitals and local public health laboratories in the collection of specimens and testing for COVID-19.

••• The California Department of Public Health’s state laboratory in Richmond and 18 other public health department laboratories now have tests for the virus that causes COVID-19. Eighteen of them are currently conducting tests, with the others coming online soon.

For more the most up to date information on COVID-19 and California’s response, visit the CDPH website: https://www.cdph.ca.gov. n

COMMUNITY NEWS

Dominican Hospital SC to Close City Facilities A Limits Visitors D ue to significant flu-like activity in Santa Cruz County and concerns about preventing COVID-19, Dignity Health Dominican Hospital has implemented visitor restrictions.

Effective March 5 • All visitors must be 16 years of age or older.

• Only one visitor per patient per day is allowed in the hospital.

• Patients and visitors may only enter through the hospital main entrance or the Emergency Department. All other entrances are currently employeeaccess only.

Additionally, masks are required at all times for Emergency Department patients experiencing fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and/or nasal congestion.

If you would like to visit someone in the hospital but you are experiencing fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and/ or nasal congestion, please visit on another day when you have been symptom free for at least 48 hours.

By limiting the number of people in the hospital setting, Dominican is following Centers for Disease Control guidelines for reducing the spread of flu-like illnesses.

Hand washing is the best defense against any flu-like illness. Remember to wash your hands frequently, use hand sanitizer, and avoid touching your face.

The restricted visitor policy will be lifted as soon as possible. Hospital officials urge people of all ages with flu-like symptoms to stay home and consult first with their primary care physician. n For information on the differences between COVID-19 and flu, visit https://dignityhlth. org/COVID-19vsFlu.

s the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Santa Cruz County continue to rise the City of Santa Cruz is making precautionary efforts to contain the spread of this virus and mitigate its impact.

On March 13, City Manager Martin Bernal announced that the city will be closing select facilities starting Tuesday, March 17 to protect employees and the community.

Essential operations that are critical to the health and safety of the community will remain operational, including police, fire, water, wastewater, building inspections, and trash collection. n ••• Visit www.cityofsantacruz.com for current information regarding impacts to city services.

Caltrans Activates COVID-19 Signs

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n response to the state’s declared emergency for COVID-19, Caltrans is launching a statewide educational campaign on the state’s highways, urging Californians to be diligent to contain the spread of the virus. Beginning on March 14, California’s more than 700 electronic highway signs will display the following types of public health safety messages: COVID-19 LESS IS MORE AVOID GATHERINGS ••• DISINFECT 2 PROTECT WASH YOUR HANDS “In support of the Governor’s declared emergency, Caltrans is taking proactive measures to help protect the public,” said Caltrans Director Toks Omishakin.

“Using our highway message signs, we are reminding Californians how to help limit the spread of COVID-19.”

California’s electronic changeable message signs along the highways will show the messages on a rotational basis.

All messaging will be coordinated with the Federal Highway Administration and the signs will be activated when there are no critical emergency, traffic safety messages or Amber Alerts. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2020 / 21

COMMUNITY NEWS

How to Talk to Kids about COVID-19

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ajaro Valley Unified School District and Pajaro Valley Prevention and Student Assistance have developed a letter to support conversations around COVID-19 with youth.

This is a resource with ideas to help students remain as calm as possible during this unprecedented situation.

Here is the letter sent by Superintendent Michelle Rodriguez and Erica Padilla-Chavez, CEO of PVPSA: ••• VUSD and its partner Pajaro Valley Prevention and Student Assistance (PVPSA) prioritize the social emotional health of our students, their families and the entire school community.

We write you today in light of the emergency preparedness work underway due to the COVID-19 (coronavirus).

Mental health experts encourage attention to our mental health during emergency preparedness and response activities. This is particularly important for children.

It is for that reason that we are providing you with some advice on how to help children understand the emergency responses that have been issued or may

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Delivering age-appropriate information can be found in a handout offered by the National Association of School Psychologists on this site: https://www. nasponline.org/resources-and-publications /resources-and-podcasts/school-climatesafety-and-crisis/health-crisis-resources/ talking-to-children-about-covid-19(coronavirus)-a-parent-resource.

••• References: Center for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/ schools-childcare/talking-with-children. html • Teach children they can help reduce the spread of germs: • Remind them they can stay away from people who are coughing or sick • Remind them to cough or sneeze into a tissue or their elbow, throw the tissue into the trash and wash their hands • Let them know that their teachers want them to be safe and so they may see more handwashing and districts, clinics, cities, and even private other activities in their schools. community events.

• Get children into a handwashing As you may recognize, these actions habit: teach them to wash their are focused for your safety, your family’s hands for at least 20 seconds after safety and for the community at large. blowing their nose, coughing, The Center for Disease Control and sneezing, going to the bathroom and Prevention offer the following principles before eating and preparing foods. o for talking with children. We encourage If soap and water are not available, you to take a few minutes to read through teach them to use hand sanitizer them and put them into practice. that contains at least 60% alcohol.

• Remain Calm and Reassuring: Taking care of YOUR emotional remember that children will react to health is also very important. both what you say and how you say it.

Recognize and accept that everyone • Make yourself available to listen reacts differently to stressful situations. The and talk: make sure children know CDC has prepared resources for everyone. they can come to you when they have Please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/ questions. coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/coping.

• Pay attention to what children see html for additional information in English and hear on television, radio and and Spanish. In closing, if your child, online: consider reducing the amount you or others you know are exhibiting of screen time heightened levels of focused on the anxiety or other emo[PVUSD and PVPSA] coronavirus. tional disturbances, encourage you to take a few Too much inforplease seek help. minutes to read through them mation can lead There are many and put them into practice. to anxiety organizations in our • Avoid language community besides that blames others and lead to stigma: PVPSA that can help. The Santa Cruz remind them that viruses can make County and Monterey County Behavioral anyone sick, regardless of a person’s Health Agency websites provide inforrace or ethnicity. mation about local services. Santa Cruz • Provide information that is honest County: http://www.santacruzhealth. and accurate: give children infor- org/HSAHome/HSADivisions/Behaviormation that is truthful and age alHealth.aspx Monterey County: https:// appropriate. Make sure children know www.co.monterey.ca.us/government/ that some stories circulating in social departments-a-h/health/behavioralmedia or online may be based on inac- health You can reach PVPSA by calling: curate information.

831-728-6445. n

COMMUNITY NEWS

Mock Trial: A Student Perspective

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By Jamie Walton

veryone held their breath as the attorney’s voice rang through the courtroom.

In the last couple of hours, nearly a dozen witnesses vehemently argued their side of the story– and faced intense cross-examinations from equally determined attorneys. After several fast-paced exchanges, the competition suddenly slowed down as participants and audience alike hung onto every word of the closing statements.

In this year’s mock trial competition, high school teams from around Santa Cruz County presented the case of People v.

Matsumoto in a model of actual courtroom proceedings.

At the beginning of the year, each team received a packet of evidence about this fictional case, complete with witness statements and courtroom exhibits. Over the next several months, students worked as defense and prosecution teams to craft the most persuading cases possible.

When the competition arrived on Feb. 5, they played time clerks, bailiffs, attorneys, and witnesses, making the event a unique combination of debate and acting.

And for the first time in 26 years of the county tournament, students represented every high school in PVUSD. Pajaro Valley High School competed for the first time this year after persevering through several challenges. After working tirelessly to pull together a team of committed students, they lost both of their

The Prosecution (left) and the Defense

coaches with only a month left before the competition.

Undeterred, the team talked to every teacher at their school to find a way to keep the program running until they found a new coach, Ashley Selck.

“I really wanted PV to be represented,” said Annie Chau, currently a senior at Pajaro Valley High, who started the mock trial team and led the efforts to keep it together. “We have so many bright and ambitious students who don’t have the opportunity or the outlet to showcase their talent, and I knew this could be something where our students would be challenged.”

More Time to File for California Taxpayers

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he Franchise Tax Board on March 13 announced special tax relief for California taxpayers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Affected taxpayers are granted an extension to file 2019 California tax returns and make certain payments until June 15, in line with Governor Newsom’s March 12 Executive Order.

During this public health emergency, every Californian should be free to focus on their health and wellbeing, said State Controller Betty T. Yee, who serves as chair of FTB. Having extra time to file their taxes helps allows people to do this, as the experts work to control the spread of coronavirus.

This relief includes moving the various tax filing and payment deadlines

that occur on March 15, through June 15, to June 15. This includes: • Partnerships and LLCs who are taxed as partnerships whose tax returns are due on March 15 now have a 90-day extension to file and pay by June 15.

• Individual filers whose tax returns are due on April 15 now have a 60-day extension to file and pay by June 15.

Quarterly estimated tax payments due on April 15 now have a 60-day extension to pay

by June 15.

The FTBs June 15 extended due date may be pushed back even further if the Internal Revenue Service grants a longer relief period.

“FTB” page 29

Their hard work paid off at the tournament, where they won the award for best spirit in the county.

Annie also won an award for her incredible leadership.

The other PVUSD teams, Watsonville High and Aptos High, shone just as brightly at the county competition on Feb. 20. Both qualified for the semifinals, meaning that they were among the top four teams in the county and performed in yet another night of challenging competition.

The Aptos team also qualified for the finals, where their prosecution team performed their strongest trial of the season and finished second overall in the county.

“I couldn’t be prouder of the whole team and how everyone performed,” commented Anabel Willy, an attorney for Aptos High.

Through months of preparation, practice, and performance, each student who participated in the mock trial program at PVUSD gained something unique, from leadership skills to connections with their community.

Everyone, though, gained a glimpse into a new world of thinking and a thrilling experience. n ••• Jamie Walton is a student at Aptos High School and member of the Mock Trial team.

Jazzercise Classes Halted in S. Valley, Boulder Creek

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s of March 13, Jazzercise classes in the City of Scotts Valley Community Center have stopped, per the city, because of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Jazzercise classes in the Boulder Creek Recreation and Parks District facility also have stopped but classes at Felton Community Hall will continue.

Jazzercise classes at the Aptos Grange and Santa Cruz Roller Palladium, which are under ownership separate from Scotts Valley, Felton and Boulder Creek, will continue.

As of March 12, corporate Jazzercise mandated “all standing” classes, discontinuing the use of equipment such as weights, tubes and mats, as a precautionary measure against coronavirus.

During the class closures, Jazzercise, Inc. plans to open the Jazzercise On

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Myrna McCaleb, longtime Jazzercise instructor, leads an “all standing” class Friday morning at the Scotts Valley Recreation Center before the city ended the use of the facility.

Demand program to students at no charge for 60 days. n ••• For the latest on class schedules, check email, Facebook, and jazzercise.com.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2020 / 23

FEATURED COLUMNIST

We Always Need More ‘Best’ Customers

By Ron Kustek

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ou know the characteristics of your best customers — they buy a lot, they buy often, they refer you to friends, they spend a lot at your location, and they rarely complain — if ever. So how do you get more of these similar “best” customers? There are specific things you need to know to satisfy and capitalize on these critical drivers of your business.

• Know Who They Are: If you already know then you’re off to a great start! Your best customer may be your female customers who are 50+ and have the savings or retirement income to spend at your business on a regular basis.

They likely bring you additional customers who may be visiting with them, as they’re wanting to share one of their favorite shopping or eating

places that every out-of-towner needs to experience.

This best customer not only buys from you on a regular basis, but is even more valuable to you because of her referral network of family and friends that she actively brings to your business.

• Know What They Do: Do your best customers usually grocery shop at a common store, or perhaps are they “soccer moms” who are part of a local school district? Are they construction workers who like to frequent craft breweries, or are they more likely to visit local wineries?

Are they regular hikers of the local beaches or mountains, or do they love to surf? Is your best customer part of a church group; are they political activists or supporters of the local arts community?

There are so many different choices and options for what your customers are doing — when they’re not visiting your website or location.

• Know Where They Live: You may have collected information

from your customers to find that the majority of them live in your local neighborhood, or perhaps they’re loyal to your business even though they live 5-6 miles away.

“Best Customers” page 26

Santa Cruz County Trying To Contain COVID-19

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By Zach Friend, Second District Supervisor

s you have undoubtedly heard, the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), has arrived in Santa Cruz County. The County of Santa Cruz is responding to this growing public health threat by activating emergency personnel led by our Public Health Division and our Public Health Officer, Dr. Gail Newel.

Although the number of cases here is still small, Dr. Newel has issued community guidelines on workplaces and social distancing in an attempt to stop the spread of the disease. The community is strongly urged to follow the guidelines, available at www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus. The website is an excellent place to stay on top of the latest developments as well.

On March 4. Dr. Newel declared a local health emergency, and the Board of Supervisors voted unanimously on March 10 to ratify that decision and declare a local emergency, which allows us to access state and federal funding to help fight COVID-19.

24 / March 15th 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Together, the community is doing its part to stop the disease. While these decisions are painful, many of us have cancelled school fundraisers, business meetings, conferences, faith events, athletic competitions, concerts, non-essential travel and more. Schools have closed and even the Santa Cruz Warriors will play competitive games in an empty arena.

We know there are very real health, economic, social and emotional impacts associated with this and we are working with the state and federal government on ways to mitigate these impacts. But this needs a community wide response and we all have a role in helping mitigate the spread.

Community members should take precautions to help prevent the spread of illness, including frequent hand washing with soap and water; covering your cough or sneeze; avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands and avoid shaking hands; regularly cleaning surfaces touched by many people using normal household cleaners; staying home from work or school if you are sick; and getting a flu shot to protect yourself and others from flu. State guidelines encourage the cancellation of large gatherings and doing what you can remotely - via teleconferencing or video conference when possible.

Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath, and may appear in as few as two or

up to 14 days after exposure. If you have symptoms of COVID-19, contact your primary care physician’s office, especially if you have recently traveled to areas with a COVID-19 outbreak or have had contact with a known case of COVID-19. Before seeking medical attention, call first to prevent possible transmission in the health care setting.

While novel coronavirus is part of a family of known viruses, COVID-19 is a new disease. The best epidemiologists in the world are working to better understand how the disease works, but we still do not know what the disease arc is, nor do we have human immunity or a vaccine.

“County Information” page 26

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Alcohol: The Sedative — Part 1

By Ron Conte, Pharm.D.

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here is no specific holiday or time of year when more alcohol is consumed. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are approximately 88,000 deaths per year directly related to alcohol consumption.

Most of these deaths do occur around major holidays, including the upcoming St Patty’s Day. I would like to point out some features of alcohol that contribute to side effects and death due to this drug.

Yes, alcohol is a drug. It is also known chemically as ethyl alcohol or ethanol.

Pharmacologically, it is classified as a sedative. All those old sedatives, such as barbiturates—Seconal as an example; benzodiazepines-- diazepam (Valium) as an example; chloral hydrate; and others are all part of the same pharmacologic class as alcohol. Newer sedatives include zolpidem (Ambien and others), Sonata, Lunesta, melatonin, Rozerem, and Belsomra. Antihistamines, antidepressants, tranquilizers, opioid narcotics, and other drugs that produce sedation are not classified as sedatives.

Rather, these agents produce drowsiness as a side effect.

Sedatives, including alcohol, produce their effects by stimulating the GABA neurotransmitter system of the brain. The net effect is to decrease nerve transmission that is in part responsible for sleep-wake cycles. There is a pattern of effects as the dose of alcohol is increased. See Table One for dose-related effects of alcohol.

It is difficult to define mild, moderate, or heavy drinking of alcoholic beverages.

One drink is defined as 5 ounces of wine, 12 ounces of beer, or 5 ounces of hard liquor. Average-sized adult men, with no major medical conditions, can consume

as a higher risk of developing certain cancers. Alcohol is contraindicated for pregnant females due to the “fetal-alcohol” syndrome.

••• n part 2 of this article, I will discuss the fetal-alcohol syndrome, major alcoholdrug interactions, alcohol withdrawal, and treatment of alcohol addiction. n ••• Ron Kustek is a business instructor at Cabrillo College. Email rokustek@cabrillo.edu

I 1 to 2 drinks per hour without noticeable alcohol side effects. For women, no more than 1 drink per hour is usually safe. Fifty per cent of Asians metabolize alcohol more slowly and may lead to a higher incidence of alcohol toxicity. Considering the pharmacokinetics of alcohol, it is prudent to substitute a glass of water for an alcoholic beverage during the last hour of drinking to minimize side effects, especially if driving after drinking. This is valid if you stay within the guidelines of drinking 1 to 2 alcoholic beverages per hour. Better yet, have a designated driver if there are plans to drive after drinking.

Acute alcohol intoxication is when so much alcohol is consumed by an individual in a short period of time thereby moving quickly through the dose-related effects.

Essentially, the normal course of alcohol pharmacokinetics (the journey of the drug through the body) is overwhelmed by large amounts of alcohol, especially if the individual as liver dysfunction.

It is important to know that ethyl alcohol is metabolized in the liver by an enzyme to acetaldehyde then to acetic acid. These are somewhat toxic metabolites. Acetaldehyde is similar in chemical structure to formaldehyde, which is used as an embalming fluid. Acetic acid is just a fancy word for vinegar. If you were to feel “sick to your stomach,” which may include nausea and vomiting, it is due to the buildup of these two metabolites.

There are over one hundred studies attesting to alcohol lowering the risk of heart attacks, clots leading to strokes, peripheral vascular disease, and sudden cardiac death. This is only true for mild to moderate intake of alcohol. However, overindulging in alcohol can lead to enlargement of the heart, esophageal varices and gastrointestinal bleeding,

liver toxicity (cirrhosis), some kidney dysfunction, male impotence, as well

Renaissance Faire

ACROSS

1. Wing it 6. Salvatore, to his friends 9. Bigger than tsp.

13. Swedish money 14. Snoop 15. Hold the floor 16. Predict from an omen 17. More of the same 18. Cell dweller 19. *Good ____, as in morning 21. *Gathering of rogues and ____, sing.

23. What engineer and auctioneer have in common 24. Japanese vodka

25. Gourmet mushroom 28. Sheer profit 30. *Set up a tent 35. “Best ____ schemes o’ mice an’ men” 37. Attention-getting interjection 39. One who looks at the stars, e.g.

40. Eye up and down 41. Train stop 43. Laughing on the inside 44. Remember this battle site!

46. Isaac’s firstborn 47. Zelensky’s capital 48. Fermented milk drink, pl.

50. Billy Joel’s “____ the Good Die Young” 52. Use lacrimal glands 53. Weakest in chess 55. Burmese neighbor

57. *Please 61. *Men’s vest 64. Child-eating daemon, Greek mythology 65. Call to Bo-peep 67. Andretti or Lauda 69. Colorado ski resort 70. “Slippery” tree 71. Phantom’s genre 72. Scotland’s famous lake 73. Johnny’s other nickname 74. Martha Washington post 1799, e.g.

DOWN

1. Rap sheet abbr.

2. Keith Moon’s instrument of choice 3. Apple’s apple, e.g.

4. Accustom 5. Like infertile land

6. Do like volcano 7. *Are 8. Swimsuit fabric 9. Not kosher 10. Island east of Java 11. Roofed colonnade 12. One of the Ivies 15. Murdering, slangily 20. Artemis’ companion 22. Island strings 24. Blended family family member 25. *Longer than a cape 26. Two under par 27. a.k.a. pilau 29. *Fare ____ well 31. *Horseshoe cleat 32. Pre-life 33. *Shakespeare’s pattern 34. *Restroom 36. Actress Moore 38. Sound of pain

42. Tutu fabric 45. Annie or Oliver, e.g.

49. Sigma Alpha Epsilon 51. Peter of Peter, Paul and Mary 54. Big name in grills 56. Giraffe’s striped-leg cousin 57. Blueprint 58. Tear down 59. Mischievous sprites 60. Decorative neckwear, pl.

61. Doorframe part 62. Tea choice 63. Infamous Roman 66. *Popular Renaissance Faire beverage 68. Like sashimi © Statepoint Media

Answers on 31 »

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2020 / 25

Your March Horoscope Times Publishing Group, Inc. Aries (March 21-April 20)

It can be difficult to put effort into the most important connections, especially when an emotional lethargy comes over you early in March. This makes it hard for others to deal with you while you’re in this mood, and makes it difficult for you to find the energy to care. You’re feeling much more energized mid-month. In fact, you feel like you’re your best self right now! But your reversed motivation is still a bit myopic. Do your best to not loose site of those helping you to your success and cheering you on. Late in the month you’re feeling a bit reckless. It can be fun to take risks, but you should still make sure you know what the consequences might be.

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

You find yourself struggling with a sense of loneliness as the month begin. There are times you want to be alone, but it can be difficult when you don’t seem to have a choice. There is change in the air mid-month, which is nice after the last week or two. Whatever doesn’t feel right in your life is a good target for starting a new path for your life. Romance is filling the air as March comes to a close. Have you met someone new? Are you ready to step up in a current relationship? This feels like a good time to take a step forward.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

You’re in a social mood early in the month. Doesn’t matter if you’re life-long friends or you just met: your conversations are not to be missed. “Life of the Party” indeed. By mid-March, you’re still in a mood to talk, but now is the time for tackling issues one at a time. The more people you have to deal with at the same time, the more difficult it will be to communicate properly. Your focus moves to the downtrodden as you look for new tasks to take on at the end of the month.

Time for a fundraiser!

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

You’re in an imaginative and inventive state of mind as March begins. So many ideas are flowing through you; now is the time to act! You’re ready to get organized through the middle of the month, something that hasn’t been your forte recently. In fact, maybe everyone suggesting you should has finally penetrated, but you’re in the mood to do the work now. Something has made clear late in the month how much you have to be thankful for. All the positive energy surrounding you is bleeding out, and thanking those who help make your life amazing feels like a natural act right now.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 23)

Some think a bit of strangeness can be daunting, but you’re reveling in your own weirdness as the month begins. The attention you’re drawing isn’t unwanted either. Your competitive genes are straining for action mid-month, and your friends and family find themselves on the receiving end.

And you’re not in the mood to be affable if you’re not winning. You’ve calmed down by the end of March, which will be helpful if there are any relationships you may have put a strain on this month.

Talking through any problems that have arose is the best thing you can do.

“Best Customers” from page 24 This information may be collected based on observation (did they walk or bike to your location) or perhaps more formally by collecting their name, home address, and opt-in email/text information via a questionnaire or client information form you have them complete.

Knowing the geography of the core of your best customers will help you make decisions about marketing vehicles such as direct and online marketing that allows you to target other ‘birds of a feather’ who are flocking together in the same neighborhoods.

• Know Their Online Habits: The average person spends 40 minutes a day on Facebook, 34 minutes daily on twitter and 21 minutes per day on both Instagram and Pinterest.

Collectively, the average person now spends over 2 hours a day on all social networks combined! The emerging younger generation (Gen Z — those following

Millennials) spend most of their time on YouTube, and not Facebook or twitter.

Each of these platforms make their money through targeted advertising — advertising you can specify and customize for for your customers (age, race, sex, income, etc) in their geography (local vs. specific radius from any zip code) who have the interests that you know of (sports vs. meals eaten outside the home vs. $$ spent on clothing per year, etc.)

If you know most of this detailed information about your best customers, you will be able to successfully get more ‘best’ customers in a fairly quick and very cost efficient manner.

The old adage about ‘knowledge is power’ applies to many respects about your company, and most importantly knowing the most about your best customers, is the best knowledge you can have to continue building a successful business! n ••• Ron Kustek is a business instructor at Cabrillo College. Email rokustek@cabrillo.edu

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sep. 22)

You’re looking ahead early in the month, thinking about new things and brainstorming new ideas.

Find some other people that can help you gather those thoughts and make them reality. Whatever comes out of those sessions could be very useful mid-March, and you could be ready to capitalize on the results. Time to go from theory to practice. Late in the month, your energy continues to push you forward. But it’s also a time to reflect on what your doing, because you’ll likely succeed, for better or for worse.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 23)

There is stress in your life early in March; a sour energy that makes interacting with others difficult. It’s hard to find your balance when it feels like everything is against you. Try to find some positive as you push through the miasma. You’re feeling a bit caged mid-month, and yet you’re also not looking to spend much. If there was a better time for finding the best deals on things you could use, we can think of it. Late in the month a feeling of optimism starts to replace the stress and fog from the before. You can finally see the positive things in your life and how to take the next steps forward.

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

You feel smart! The start of the month is a perfect time to dive into projects and new ideas you’ve been ruminating on recently. Your usual circle may not be able to follow your plans though, so finding some like-minded people to bounce ideas off could help. Mid-month is the time to act upon your ideas. All the planning and discussion from before are ready to put into motion. Time to make dreams come true! As March comes to a close, you still find yourself focused and driven, but you also have a confidence and sense of self that others seem to be drawn too. They can see your bright future, too.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

There’s an intellectual air about you early in the month, something that you’re having a hard time reigning in. You don’t mean to talk over people’s heads, but you do seem to be explaining yourself more than usual. You always have a desire to succeed, but the fire lit late in March is pushing you harder than ever. You know your goal, and you’re ready to put in more effort than you ever have to achieve it. As the month comes to a close, even you are surprised by what you’re accomplishing. Now isn’t the time to be distracted, but a short break to offer those less fortunate some help does feel important.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20)

It’s a rough time for you early in March. You’re not the most enjoyable companion at the moment, but that’s not the worst thing in the world. You’ve been here before; you’ll come out of it again.

You’re feeling more social mid-month, but you’re even more interested in working though tasks you’ve let linger. You’ll be in a much better place when all these chores are behind you. As the month comes to a close, your diligence has left you with a rare sense of freedom to pursue some frivolous indulgences. It’s time to have some fun!

Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb. 18)

You’re thinking about the future as the month begins. Not just yours, but your friends, your family, maybe even the whole world. You want to make everything better, so don’t keep your ideas to yourself.

You’re feeling a need for freedom mid-month. You know there are parts of your life that seem to be holding you back, and it’s going to take some work to find your way out. Late in March, the desire to break free grows stronger. It’s harder to be polite now. Time to make something happen!

Pisces (Feb. 19-Mar. 20)

Your desire for beauty is strong as the month begins. A beautiful sunrise, a lovely art exhibit, a gorgeously-set table, a perfect necklace; any form of beauty is calling to you, and you’re not thinking about the cost (at least, not right now). Your shyness is coming to the forefront midMarch, making it hard to socialize or put yourself forward. This isn’t the best time to be on a podium, although you could probably push through individual interactions. You’re feeling much more social as the month comes to a close … in fact, your desires are embarrassingly strong, leaving you looking for alternative outlets.

•••

www.tpgonlinedaily.com 26 / March 15th 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“County Information” from page 24 While healthy adults can survive COVID-19 with relative ease, they can still be vectors to more vulnerable members of our community, for whom COVID-19 can be deadly.

That is why we are taking such an aggressive position in trying to contain and mitigate the disease. We are doing this on behalf of many in our community whose bodies cannot withstand an attack by a virus that might seem relatively

mild to the rest of us. We know that COVID-19 appears to spread much faster that the common flu, and our community will need to stay united in our efforts to protect one another. Stay informed and engaged with the County’s website www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus for information or texting “covid19” to 211211. n ••• As always, if I can provide any additional information please don’t hesitate to call me at 454-2200.

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Improving Your Immune System Is Good

I

n light of the coronavirus, it might be a good time to work on boosting your immune system.

••• Question: Will doing my best to revive, improve and boost my immune system keep me from getting the coronavirus?

Answer: Yes and no. es, doing what you can to be as healthy as possible will boost your immune system and position it to ward off an attack from a nasty mob of microscopic foreign invaders.

It’s just another good excuse to switch to a whole food plantbased lifestyle which creates a stronger, better working immune system – you rarely, if ever, get sick.

And no, no one can promise that if you follow some straight forward basic health tips, known to enhance your immune response …That that will guarantee you won’t contract the virus. However, wisely supporting your immune system will increase your odds of fighting off and winning the battle to defeat the virus…at the gate.

Let’s be clear… right now, nothing can guarantee you’ll be totally safe from this new deadly virus. No one can be sure if one’s body will have the necessary reserves to win the internal battle that may be going on inside you.

All I’m saying here is if and when the virus (of any kind) makes it to your neighborhood, you’ll want to be in the best position possible to fight the “internal battle.” You’ll want to be strong and in the best possible position to fight off these microscopic bugs! When confronted with the coronavirus, you’ll want to be assured that you haven’t made yourself an easy target.

Don’t find yourself tired and run down and physically compromised when the time comes. You don’t want your defenses

Y

Let’s be clear … right now, nothing can guarantee you’ll be totally safe from this new deadly virus.

By John Wilkins

to be penetrated by a predatory virus that is stalking the Earth, looking for easy targets, killing who it may. So, it makes sense to do what we can do to be well prepared. It could be a matter of life or death.

When a hurricane is headed to town, most who stay in its path will prepare by stocking up on extra food and water.

They’ll make sure they have a couple of flashlights, extra batteries and perhaps even a backup generator. The windows will be boarded up to keep flying debris from penetrating the sanctity of the home.

Are we all on board? Be proactive!

It’s time now to do get into fighting shape to protect yourself from sickness and possible death. This is serious!

So, here are the top 5 things you can do to improve your immune system and give yourself the best chance to win your personal battle against any virus.

1. Get enough sleep: If you’re feeling tired, go to bed earlier… Starting tonight. You don’t know how much time you’ll have before the hurricane hits … once the virus shows up in your neighborhood, it’s too late to prepare .

The National Sleep Foundation recommends: “To stay healthy, especially during the influenza season, get the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep a night. This will help keep your immune system in fighting shape.”

And remember: Even if you become sick with the virus or catch the seasonal sniffles, you’ll be able to bounce back faster if your body is well rested. Easy to understand and makes sense. So, enjoy getting your restorative rest!

2. Eat fruit every day: Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a watersoluble vitamin well known for its role in supporting a healthy immune system.

Because your body cannot make vitamin C, it must come from the foods you eat every day.

Go to the store today and buy oranges, apples, pears, plumbs or cherries, any good thing that will make us all healthy — like berries, grapes or whatever looks good to you. Take a couple of fruit breaks during the day.

What you need to know: Vitamin C helps to stimulate both the production and function of many types of white blood

cells (that fight infection and foreign microscopic invaders that mean us harm.)

Fruit containing Vitamin C also helps your body to produce important antibodies: proteins that bind invading microbes to neutralize them. ... In other words, Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for healthy immune system response. So, eat some fruit every day.

3. Eat vegetables every day: Vegetables provide everything the body needs to keep it functioning at the highest level and in turn will make sure the immune system is ready for war.

Veggies contain vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients and some protein. Vegetables provide all the building blocks necessary to build a “great wall” designed to keep out all the invaders.

So, remember to eat more fruit and vegetables every day and you’ll be better fortified against any disease including the coronavirus. A salad a day is a good start.

4. Exercise: Just 20 minutes of walking a day will help keep your circulation and lymph system in good working order… which is critical to your immune system.

Helpful hint: Always park your vehicle in the back of the parking lot, forcing you to take some extra steps — and here is a bonus of unintended consequences.

You’ll notice now that you’ve removed all the pressure and possible frustration associated with trying to find a “good” parking spot — up close and in front.

Instead relax, go to the area where the cars aren’t. You’ll find plenty of room. It’s smart and walking a little helps a lot.

5. Eat mostly a whole food plant-based diet: This lifestyle will lead to your best overall health, strengthen your immune system and provide the strongest protection against pathogens.

Homework: Go to YouTube and search out the above subject for yourself. (Plantbased healing.)

And, of course: Take steps to avoid infection, such as washing your hands frequently and avoid touching your face and avoid large crowds when possible.

One more thing: Keep a positive attitude! n ••• John Wilkins is author of “To Thine Own Health Be True” and founder and CEO of “Our Passion For Health,”a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing public health solutions for the betterment of mankind. For support and encouragement go to: www.ourpassionforhealth.org Send your questions and comments to: john@ourpassionforhealth.org

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2020 / 27

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS

With the current COVID-19 Crisis, please check in advance

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR before attending any ongoing or dated events listed here.

THE MONTEREY SYMPHONY The Monterey Symphony is seeking volunteers. If you love music and want to be involved, please call (831) Tuesdays through similar experiences, and obtain additional 646-8511 or visit www.montereysymphony.org for OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS MEETING educational materials. more info.

7 - 8 pm, Christ Lutheran Church, Gazebo, 10707 Soquel Dr., Our evening Santa Cruz caregiver support group Aptos meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month, Do you have a proble m with compulsive over- or under- and our afternoon Santa Cruz caregiver support ONGOING EVENTS eating? Anorexia? Bulimia? Compulsive exercising? group meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each Daily You are not alone. Drop into a free, friendly OA 12-Step month. No fee. Open to family members.

SANTA CRUZ ‘USED’ BOOKSHOP meeting with the solution. All are welcome!

For more information about this and other support groups in 10 am- 3 pm 2710 Chanticleer Ave. Santa Cruz For information on other meetings in Santa Cruz County: www. the area, please call 800.272.3900 Grey Bears: Every Monday and Friday is $10santacruzoa.org/meetings a-bag book sale. Fill up a shopping bag with Second Wednesdays books for only $10! Thousands of titles for $1.50 WRITING/DISCUSSION MEETING SANTA CRUZ SONS IN RETIREMENT or less: cookbooks, gardening, sci-fi, mysteries, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Christ Lutheran Church, Gazebo Room, MONTHLY MEETING 10707 Soquel Dr., Aptos, CA 95003 (At Hwy One and classics and all sorts of fiction and nonfiction.

Noon, Elks Lodge at 150 Jewell St. Non-profit Grey Bears has served our community Freedom Blvd) This statewide group of retired men invites you Do you have a problem with food?

Please check out our for 45 years. Grey Bears provides recycling free, friendly 12-Step support group with the solution. to be our guest at our monthly luncheon. You’ll services and accepts books and other donations meet kindred spirits, have a fine lunch and learn All teens and adults welcome! for our thrift stores. something new from a top notch guest speaker.

Proceeds benefit our Brown Bag Program, distributing nutri- For current times and locations of other meetings: www. Cost: $18. RSVP at 479-7096 santacruzoa.org/meetings.

Or call our Hotline at (831) tious food to 3,900 seniors every week.

429-7906.

Second and Fourth Wednesdays Weekdays WELLNESS ON THE CANCER JOURNEY BINGO CASA ORIENTATIONS TO BECOME 6:30 p.m. Santa Cruz Elks Lodge, 150 Jewell St. 11-12:30 pm, Old Soquel Plaza ADVOCATES FOR CHILDREN BINGO EVERY TUESDAY. Buy-in begins at $21. The Learn how to safely support your body and emotions CASA empowers volunteers to directly influence Snack Bar is open with goodies and dinner specials. through the journey of Cancer — from diagnosis life-changing decisions affecting children in to softening the impact of chemo, radiation, and foster care. Court appointed special advocates are BUSINESS DEBTORS ANONYMOUS recovering well from surgery. We’ll address nausea, everyday people that, with just a few hours a week 5:15-6:30pm, Calvary Episcopal Church, Parish Hall, 532 low energy, weakness, digestion, immune support, can have a lifetime of impact for a child who has Center Street, Santa Cruz. grief, stress and more. Feel free to bring your partner or been abused or neglected.

We specifically focus on recovering from debting on care team to this free class. Please come fed; water is More info www.casaofsantacruz.org or call 831-761-2956 one’s business. available. x102 For more information: 831-425-3272.

Limited Seats. Please register all attendees on Eventbrite — Wellness on the Cancer Journey or call Second Mondays Tuesdays & Wednesdays 831-254-3270 to RSVP. Address given upon registration SURVIVORS SUPPORT GROUPS COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS OF SANTA CRUZ receipt.

Monarch Services offers a safe space to meet other 7-8:30 p.m., Quaker Meeting House, 225 Rooney St. Santa Cruz survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and Parents of a child who died at any age, from any ADHD SUPPORT GROUP cause, any length of time ago, are invited to join The human trafficking survivors, and to listen or share experiences. Childcare provided on site.

6:30-8 p.m., Aptos Fire Station, 6934 Soquel Drive, Aptos Compassionate Friends of SC for our monthly grief Spanish – Tuesdays 6:00-7:30 p.m. Servicios support meeting. Opening circle followed by smaller The Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay Branch of CHADD Monarca, 233 E. Lake Avenue, Watsonville (831) connection groups. hosts monthly support group meetings for anyone Grief materials available. Bereaved grandparents 722-4532 who would like to learn more about ADHD or has English – Wednesdays 6:00-7:30 p.m. Monarch questions or concerns. Come share with those who and adult siblings are also welcome. NonServices, 1590 Seabright Avenue, SC (831) 425religious. understand.

4030 Visit www.tcfsantacruz.com or call 831.332.9893 for more Second Wednesdays’ meeting is for parents of For more information, visit www.monarchscc.org information. children, teens, and young adults with ADHD. The group for adults with ADHD, spouses, partners of Third Mondays Tuesdays & Thursdays someone with ADHD meets fourth Wednesdays of STITCHERS BY THE SEA FREE PILATES CLASSES AT TEMPLE BETH EL every month.

7 –9 p.m., St. Stephan’s Lutheran Church, 2500 Soquel Ave., 10 a.m., Temple Beth El, 3055 Porter Gulch Rd., Aptos Judy Brenis: jbbrenis@comcast.net, or call 831-818Santa Cruz Please join us every Tuesday and Thursday at 10 am in 9619.

The Santa Cruz County chapter of the Embroiderers the social hall at Temple Beth El in Aptos (3055 Porter Guild of America meets on the third Monday of every Gulch Rd) for a lively and challenging 60 minute Pilates Last Wednesdays Each Month month, except June and December. Meetings are free Strength Class. The classes are free and everybody is MAGICIANS’ CLUB to attend. All are welcome. welcome. Donation are welcome.

7 p.m., Antonelli Club Room, 2655 Brommer St., Santa Cruz For more information https://www.tbeaptos.org Attention Magic Lovers! Our new Magicians’ Club Mondays & Tuesdays meets on the last Wed. of every month at 7pm in WOMENCARE ARM-IN-ARM Wednesdays the club room at the Antonelli Mobile Home Park.

12:30 - 2 p.m.

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION If you do magic or want to get started in this fun WomenCARE ARM-in-ARM support group for 1st & 3rd Wednesdays: 5:30-7 p.m. hobby, join us. women with advanced, recurrent and metastatic 2nd & 4th Wednesdays: 2-3:30 p.m.

Questions? Call Jim at 685-3829 cancers. Meets weekly Mondays & Tuesdays, with Alzheimer’s Association, 550 Water Street, Ste L2, SC a separate meeting every First and Third Tuesday If you have a family member who has been SANTA CRUZ COUNTY PROSTATE CANCER every month.

SUPPORT GROUP Registration required. Call 457-2273 for more information and diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia, a caregiver support group can offer you 7-9 p.m., Katz Cancer Resource Center, 3150 Mission Dr to register. No cost to attend. an opportunity to find out more about available com- Santa Cruz County Prostate Cancer Support Group has www.womencaresantacruz.org munity resources, learn from others who are going 28 / March 15th 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

been an active group for over 20 years in the community.

First meeting of 2018 will be February 28th.

Thursdays FRIENDSHIP PUT TO MUSIC! 6:30 p.m., New Hall, La Selva Beach Club House, 3124 Estrella Ave. Classes every Thursday night. For more info call Sue Harris or Don Benson (831) 726-7053 or email at caller4u@att.net LUCKY STEPPERS MODERN SQUARE DANCE 6:30 pm, La Selva Beach Clubhouse, 314 Estrella Ave., La Selva Beach, CA 95076 It’s fun and easy to do! Friendship put to music; family friendly. Class takes place every Thursday Night at our new home in La Selva Beach! (Take Mar Monte off of Hwy 1, turns into Playa Blvd., turn right on Estrella) For more information, contact Sue Harris or Don Benson at (831) 726-7053 or e-mail at caller4u@att.net.

SAN LORENZO COMMUNITY BAND PRACTICE SESSIONS 7:30-9 p.m., San Lorenzo Valley High School Band Room (F-1) The San Lorenzo Valley Community Band meets every Thursday at SLV High School. Dues are $30 a semester.

You must read music.

Call Teresa at 336-8637.

Second and Fourth Thursdays CABRILLO HOST LIONS CLUB MEETINGS 6:30 p.m., Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Road.

Want to make a difference in our community? Join the Cabrillo Lions Club twice every month and see what you can do to help in Santa Cruz County.

Please RSVP cabrillolions@gmail.com Fridays NAR-ANON SCOTTS VALLEY 6:30 p.m., Camp Recovery Center (Bison Center Room), 3192 Glen Canyon Road, Scotts Valley.

Nar-Anon is a twelve step support group for families and friends of addicts. There are no dues or fees to join.

Just come to a meeting. You will hear others, who are going through similar problems, talk about how they cope and find recovery.

To locate additional times and locations of meetings, please go to our website at www.nar-anon.org.

DROP-IN GRIEF SUPPORT 12-1 pm, Hospice of Santa Cruz County, two locations: 940 Disc Dr., SV • 85 Nielson St., Watsonville Hospice of Santa Cruz County is offering a drop-in grief support group for adults grieving the death of a family member or a friend. This group is a place where you can share stories, learn tools for coping, and receive support from people who care.

For more information, please call (831) 430-3000. Preregistration is required.

First Fridays each month FIRST FRIDAY ART TOUR The First Friday Art Tour is a Santa Cruz Institute of Contemporary Arts event, managed in conjunction with the participating art venues. The event takes place year-round and illuminates some of the most talented local artists from local galleries.

To find out where to participate in a First Friday art tour, visit firstfridaysantacruz.com (Most galleries are open 12-9 pm for First Friday viewings.)

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ONGOING EVENTS (cont.)

FRIDAY SHAKESPEARE CLUB 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Peace United Church of Christ at 900 High Street, Santa Cruz Curious about Shakespeare? The Friday Shakespeare Club members discuss the life, times, and influence of William Shakespeare.

For information, call 831-684-2832, or go to friday shakespeare.org or facebook.com/fridayshakespeare.

To locate additional times and locations of meetings, please go to our website at www.nar-anon.org.

RECOVERING COUPLES ANONYMOUS MEETING 10:30 a.m.–noon, Sutter Maternity, 2900 Chanticleer Ave, SC RCA is a 12 step group for couples. Our primary purpose is to stay committed in loving and intimate relationships and to help other couples achieve freedom from dysfunctional relationships. All couples are welcome whether married or partnered. Some of us are new in our coupleships and seek to build intimacy together.

FRIDAY SHAKESPEARE CLUB We have all found help in Recovering Couples OF SANTA CRUZ Anonymous.

10 am - noon, Peace United Church, 909 High Street For more information visit our website: https://santacruzrca.

This is the oldest women’s club in Santa Cruz. The club org or email us at rcasantacruz@yahoo.com meets to study the life, works and times of William Shakespeare. Members share group readings and FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH BIBLE STUDY insights, discuss history, and universal themes found 9:45 a.m: Bible Study • 11 a.m.: Worship in his plays and writings.

7565 Sunset Way, Aptos For more information please call 831-684-2832 First Baptist Church of Aptos welcomes you to join their bible study and worship every Sunday.

Saturdays Call (831) 688-5842 for more info PILLS ANONYMOUS (PA) 8 a.m., Sutter Hospital, 2025 Soquel Ave The purpose of PA is to provide a safe, secure, and supportive place for people who are addicted to pills who want to get off of them. PA is offered all over the world.

For questions, please contact Gary at (831)801-9578 or Kristin at (831)345-6515

First Sunday of Every Month SANTA CRUZ DINNER CLUB EVENT 5 p.m., various member homes throughout county Love to cook, entertain and socialize? Our dinner club events will be held in several homes throughout Santa Cruz County where members enjoy gourmet meals, fine wine and conversation.

Joining the club provides a great opportunity to SANTA CRUZ TENNIS CLUB cook, to entertain, and to meet locals that share 9 a.m., Soquel High School Tennis Courts The nonprofit Santa Cruz Tennis Club meets every your interests.

Learn more about the SC Dinner Club and the fun we Saturday morning at the Soquel High School courts beginning at 9:00 am. We play doubles and have by contacting Rhonda Mills at info@SantaCruz DinnerClub.com mixed doubles, mostly at an intermediate level, and switch around the players every 45 minutes.

Third Sunday of Every Month Balls are provided. $2 for first time visitors.

SCIENCE SUNDAY Starts at 1 p.m., 100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, 95060 Second Saturdays Each Month Seymour Marine Discovery Center presents a public 2ND SATURDAY ON THE FARM lecture from a marine scientist the third Sunday of 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Ag History Project Center at the Santa Cruz every month. Topics are presented in an entertaining County Fairgrounds and easy-to-understand format, with up-to-date Join us every 2nd Saturday on the Farm for free photos, video, and discussion. family activities. Each month we select a new Science Sunday does not meet in December. For more info theme to highlight historical agriculture with visit seymourcenter.ucsc.edu games, activities, and demonstrations that relate.

We often have guest appearances from farm DATED EVENTS animals like llamas, draft horses, sheep, goats, chickens, rabbits, and more! You are sure to find All listed events are still in effect at press time something fun and entertaining for the whole family.

Check our website and Facebook page for more details. FREE Saturday April 11 Sundays OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS MEETING 4 - 5 pm, Ben Lomond Community Library, 9525 Mill St., Ben Lomond Do you have a problem with compulsive over- or undereating? Anorexia? Bulimia? Compulsive exercising?

You are not alone. Drop into a free, friendly OA 12-Step meeting with the solution. All are welcome!

Sunday April 12

EGGSTRAORDINARY EGG HUNT 11 a.m., 12:30 and 2 p.m., Roaring Camp, Felton.

Hop aboard Roaring Camp’s Forest Train for an Eggstraordinary Egg Hunt Saturday and Sunday, April 11 and April 12 in Felton. Upon arrival atop Bear Mountain, children can hunt for eggs, candies and special prizes; Easter Bunny will be there, too. Other activities NAR-ANON SANTA CRUZ include a petting 6:30 p.m., Sutter Maternity & Surgery Center (Sutter Room), zoo, games and crafts.

2900 Chanticleer Avenue, Santa Cruz Trains depart at Nar-Anon is a twelve step support group for families 11:00 am, 12:30 and friends of addicts. There are no dues or fees to join. Just come to a meeting. You will hear others, who and 2:00 pm. Tickets are $33 for adults, $26 for children (2-12 years); children under 2 ride for free. Reservations are going through similar problems, talk about how recommended. they cope and find recovery.

Visit www.roaringcamp.com to book tickets. n

COMMUNITY NEWS

PG&E: No Disconnects During Outbreak O n March 13, PG&E CEO and President William Johnson posted a letter to the company customers, making promises of continued service and help for people struggling with their bills Here is the complete letter: ••• s the State of California and our communities mobilize to slow the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19), our hearts go out to all those who have been affected by this outbreak.

At PG&E, we want you to know how we’re supporting these efforts and our customers in this difficult time.

No disconnections: We understand that many of our customers are facing severe economic challenges because of this crisis, as businesses and schools close.

In consideration of this, PG&E will not disconnect any customer’s power for nonpayment during this health crisis.

We want customers to have confidence in this time that they can turn on the lights, keep the heat on and cook on their stoves.

Encouraging CARE: We also have a program in place called CARE that helps reduce bills for customers facing economic hardships. Please see if you qualify for this

A

program at www.pge.com/care.

Protecting our employees: To help slow the spread of the virus, and limit the risk of our own employees, we are asking many employees who perform administrative functions to work from home.

However, because so much of our work is essential to public safety and powering our economy, our front-line employees will remain hard at work in the field.

Out of an abundance of caution, we are asking employees who have direct customer contact to take social distancing precautionary measures, such as avoiding handshakes and wearing disposable nitrile gloves while in customers’ homes.

Continuing our wildfire safety work: As we all work to fight this virus, we also know wildfire season is around the corner.

So, we will continue to accelerate our work to upgrade our system in the face of continued and perhaps worsening wildfire threats due to the dry winter weather.

To keep you safe in the event of wildfire threats or power outages, we urge you to update your contact information at www.pge.com/mywildfirealerts.

We remain privileged to serve you and your community with safe, reliable energy.

For more information on ways you can stay safe, I invite you to visit safetyactioncenter. pge.com. n

Michael’s on Main Cancels Music Shows

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ichael’s on Main in Soquel has cancelled all ticketed shows from March 14 to March 31 due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Friday Happy Hour music is cancelled from March 14 to March 31.

Tuesday Cripple Creak Open Mic Jams

“FTB” from page 23 Taxpayers claiming the special COVID-19 relief should write the name of the state of emergency (for example, COVID-19) in black ink at the top of the tax return to alert FTB of the

are cancelled from March 14 to March 31.

Live music is also cancelled for Grateful Sundays from March 14 to March 31, but there will be “Recorded Grateful Dead Music” starting at 5:30 p.m. n For the latest, see http://michaelsonmain music.com

special extension period. If taxpayers are e-filing, they should follow the software instructions to enter disaster information.

The FTB will also waive interest and any late filing or late payment penalties that would otherwise apply. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2020 / 29

Business Guide

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Storm Damage Repair Timelines

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TO ADVERTISE IN THE BUSINESS GUIDE SECTION

call our offices 831.688.7549

www.tpgonlinedaily.com 30 / March 15th 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

hile our county has experienced a relatively dry winter, storm damage repairs from nearly three years ago still impact many in the county.

There is good news on this front for a number of the damaged sites.

The major spring storms in 2017 caused over $120 million in damage to public roads and facilities in the unincorporated area. While some significant repairs have already been completed, such as Valencia by Valencia Elementary and the Soquel slip out by the trestle to work on Old San Jose Road and other major repairs, many areas in our district upper Valencia, Trout Gulch, Hazel Dell and more have been caught in a federal process awaiting repair.

The good news is that in December, after significant advocacy work by our office, Public Works and our federal delegation, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) granted the needed permissions to free up funding so we can get the repairs on track. Here are some updated repair timelines for major projects in our district (or used by our district).

Valencia Road (the upper two slides by Flume). This project is estimated at $2.9 million and is going to bid later this month. We anticipate awarding bids in 1-2 months with construction in summer.

Cox Road — at mile marker 1.93 and 2.03. Combined, the projects will run about $1.2 million and will also be going to bid later this month with a summer construction timeline.

By Zach Friend, Second District Supervisor

Highland Way (multiple locations). This has already been advertised for bid and is expected for construction this spring or summer (with a cost of about $1.6 million).

McGregor Drive. Bids were opened on this project and awarding of the bid should occur soon with construction in spring. This project is about $65,000.

Browns Valley Road near mile marker 2.93. This will go to bid in the spring with a spring/summer construction ($60,000).

Green Valley Road near mile marker 1.85. This is awaiting final permits from the state but assuming those occur this $350,000 project will be advertised in late March or early April with a summer construction timeline.

Depending upon permits and bidding it’s possible that some projects could be completed later this year - specifically the seven locations on Hazel Dell Road (costing over $5 million in repairs), Rider Road (about $650,000 in repairs) and Valencia School Road (about $850,000 in repairs). If not, they will be advertised to bid in the spring of 2021 with construction either in the spring or summer of 2021.

The five repairs on Trout Gulch, totaling about $1.6 million in repairs, are anticipated for spring/summer of 2021 based on the timeline provided back from the federal government.

These are just the repairs within our district (or just outside of our district), there are approximately $24 million in repairs occurring

throughout the County on storm damage this year.

Where does the funding come from?

The county submitted multiple emergency declarations after the storms of late 2016 and the spring of 2017. With state support we received federal declarations, which included 75 percent reimbursement for these damages.

The county, needing a 25 percent match on the roads that were part of the declarations (not all roads were approved so some may be 100 percent funded by the county) elected to use our SB1 funds (gas tax) for the significant match. With damages totaling over $120 million the match was estimated to be in the $30-35 million range. So funding comes from federal and local sources.

Santa Cruz County was the first in the state to submit our damage assessment forms and the first to have visits from our federal partners to work on preliminary design and assessments. In order for work to commence (or reimbursements to occur) every element of every project (environmental, design etc) needs to be approved by either state and/or federal partners.

On most of the projects, we’ve been able to move it through this process and now, with the recent FHWA approvals, are ready to construct many of them. n ••• Want to learn more? will be hosting a storm damage repair update with Public Works via live stream. Given concerns over COVID-19 and large gatherings the county feels it would be best to do this online-only right now. Here are the details:

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March 24 • 6-7:30 pm Facebook Live www.facebook.com/supervisorfriend ••• As always, I appreciate hearing your thoughts. Feel free to contact me at 454-2200 or stop by my office in Aptos or my office hours in Corralitos, Watsonville and Seascape.

SCCAS Featured Pet Journey Will Win Your Heart Too

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crossword on 25 »

ourney (A264391) has won over the hearts of many staff and volunteers during her time at the shelter. She was originally found as a stray on the streets of Oakland and brought to Oakland Animal Services (OAS).

As a placement partner of OAS, we took her in as a transfer to see if a different environment would help her to come out of her shell.

Journey began to light up when she saw other dogs in the shelter. Her love of other dogs helped her to blossom and bond with staff and volunteers. She went from hiding in the corner of her kennel to running around the dog play yards with her many dog friends, occasionally taking a break to snuggle up with a staff or volunteer member.

Journey is now in foster working towards being the best dog she can be. She is very much an adolescent in nature and would benefit from a patient adopter who will give her gentle guidance in the transition into the new home. She is also still very nervous in new environments and with new people but is making strides.

An ideal home for Journey would be a teens or adults only home with at least one other playful, confident, active dog for her to play with. Journey is a bit too interested in chasing cats so a home without cats or other small animals is recommended.

Journey would be happiest being able to play in a backyard with her dog friend instead of going for walks — especially while she gains confidence in her new home.

If you have a young, confident dog that needs a play friend and are willing to put in the extra TLC, Journey is the dog for you.

To adopt your new friend, visit one of the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter locations, or their website at www.scanimalshelter.org. n ••• Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter has two full-service, open-admission shelters: Santa Cruz Location (Public Entrance): 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 Hours: Daily 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Wednesdays: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Watsonville Location: 580 Airport Blvd, Watsonville, CA 95076 Hours: Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed 12-1) Closed on Sunday SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Cool Vegetable Gardening Goes Warm

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By Tony Tomeo

he weather agrees with the calendar this year. It is time to start replacing remaining cool season vegetable plants with fresh warm season vegetable plants. In fact, according to how the weather has been through February, the process could have begun quite some time ago. Frost, which is the limiting factor for warm season vegetables, is very unlikely this late, even if wintry rain resumes.

The past month of springy weather makes it easier to replace aging cool season vegetable plants with those that are now in season. Cool season vegetable plants obviously perform best through the cool weather of autumn and winter. They perform into spring where winters are cooler. Unseasonable warmth here accelerated their maturation. They deteriorate if not harvested soon enough.

Most of the cool season vegetable plants produce vegetables that truly are vegetative. Most individual plants produce only once. For example, one cabbage plant produces only one cabbage. Conversely, most warm season vegetable plants actually produce fruit. Some produce many fruits through their season. Even some warm season vegetative leafy greens can produce repeatedly.

Tomato, pepper, eggplant pole beans and the various summer squash can get planted early to produce until they succumb to frost at the end of the season.

Cucumber and pea do not produce for such an extensive season, so might be grown only in spring or the end of summer. Corn and root vegetables produce only once, so their seed get sown in multiple phases to prolong their season.

Renaissance Faire © Statepoint Media

Warm season vegetables enjoy warming weather.

Corn, root vegetables and most greens grow best from seed sown directly into a garden. There is no need to start them inside here. Confinement can disfigure root vegetables anyway. Because so many individual plants are grown, it is impractical to purchase seedlings.

However, purchasing a few seedlings of tomato, pepper, zucchini and most other warm season vegetable plants is not as impractical. If only a few are desired, they are not much more expensive than seed.

They are conducive to transplant, and will continue to produce through the season.

Grow potatoes now to dig later.

Potato irst thing first. Potatoes are not roots.

They are only classified as a root vegetable because they grow underground.

They are actually a sort of specialized subterranean stem known as a “stolon.”

Because they are so distended, a more accurate distinction might be “tuberous stolon” or “stoloniferous tuber.” Their eyes are buds, which roots lack. Their roots extend from eyes and other roots.

Most cultivated potatoes are of the species Solanum tuberosum. Some of the thousands of cultivars that were developed during the thousands of years potatoes have been in cultivation are distantly related to other species. Hybridization was a means with which to incorporate desirable characteristics of other species.

Potatoes are presently one of the main food crops in the world.

Small potatoes or pieces of potatoes, which are known as “seed potatoes,” start to grow in home gardens after the last frost. Potatoes are not grown from actual seed because of the potential for genetic variation. After bloom later in summer, their coarse foliage dies to the ground.

Potatoes that grew during the previous season are then ready to get dug. Fruit and all green parts are toxic. n ••• Horticulturist Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo.com .

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2020 / 31

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