Covid Funeral Help Available

COMMUNITY NEWS Covid Funeral Help Available

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought overwhelming grief to many families. The Federal Emergency Management Agency is dedicated to helping ease some of the financial stress and burden caused by the virus.

Under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, FEMA is providing financial assistance for COVID-19 related funeral expenses incurred after Jan. 20, 2020.

Santa Cruz County reports 207 people died because of COVID-19. All of those deaths were after Jan. 20, 2020.

How to Apply

You can reach the COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Helpline at 844-684-6333 (TTY: 800-462-7585) Monday thru Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Call this dedicated toll-free phone number to get a COVID-19 Funeral Assistance application completed with help from FEMA’s representatives. Multilingual services will be available.

Get answers to frequently asked questions about the application process on our Funeral Assistance FAQ page. (https:// tinyurl.com/covid-funeral-help)

If you use a relay service, such as your videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, please provide your specific number assigned to that service. It is important that FEMA is able to contact you, and you should be aware phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number.

Funeral Assistance Policy

On June 29, 2021, FEMA amended the funeral assistance policy to assist with COVID-19 related fatalities that occurred in the early months of the pandemic.

This policy change will allow applicants to submit a statement or letter from the death certificate’s certifying official, medical examiner, or coroner, that attributes the death to COVID-19 fatalities that occurred between Jan. 20 and May 16, 2020.

Read the amended policy at https:// tinyurl.com/feta-funeral-assist-new

Who is Eligible?

To be eligible for funeral assistance, you must meet these conditions: • For deaths that occurred after May 16, 2020, the death certificate must indicate the death was attributed to

COVID-19. • For deaths that occurred from Jan. 20 to May 16, 2020, any death certificate that does not attribute the cause of death to COVID-19 must be accompanied by a signed statement listing

COVID-19 as a cause or contributing cause of death. ° The signed statement must be provided by the original certifier of the death certificate or the local medical examiner or coroner from the jurisdiction in which the death occurred. ° The statement must provide an additional explanation, or causal pathway, linking the cause of death listed on the death certificate with COVID-19.

If you had COVID-19 funeral expenses, we encourage you to keep and gather documentation. Types of information should include: • Official death certificate that shows the death occurred in the United States, including the U.S. territories. ° If the death certificate is from Jan. 20 to May 16, 2020 it must either attribute the death directly or indirectly to

COVID-19 or be accompanied by a signed statement provided by the original certifier of the death certificate or the local medical examiner or coroner from the jurisdiction in which the death occurred listing COVID-19 as a cause or contributing cause of death. This statement must provide an additional explanation, or causal pathway, linking the cause of death listed on the death certificate with

COVID-19. ° If the death certificate from May 16, 2020 or later the death certificate must attribute the death directly or indirectly to COVID-19. n

“Staff of Life” from page 20

Their goal was to make nourishing and natural old world-style bread as a healthy alternative to the highly processed and chemical-laden bread that dominated the market. At the time there was no clear definition of “organic” but the two founders sought out the best ingredients that aligned with their principles.

They found wheat from family farms that were still practicing traditional agricultural methods that were pesticide-free and healthy for both individuals and the planet: essentially the principles of what is now considered organic farming.

Over time the bakery grew into Staff of Life Natural Foods Market, moving into a larger store in Santa Cruz in 2011 and then to Watsonville this year.

The founders, with co-owner Jason Bazarnick, have kept the tradition of working with regional producers and local family farms to provide the best quality products. n

“Grand Jury: CZU Fire” from page 26

The supervisors, elected to their positions by our community, fail to recognize that they are responsible to adequately address these concerns.

F2. There was a marked difference in content and depth of analysis between Cal Fire’s Virtual Community Meeting presentation given to San Mateo County and the two given to Santa Cruz County. The discrepancy is disappointing and not acceptable.

F3. The Board of Supervisors did not adequately respond to their constituents’ concerns and questions.

F4. The Board of Supervisors has not held Cal Fire accountable for their lack of analysis of their performance in the CZU Lightning Complex fire.

F5. No provision exists in the current contract between the county and Cal Fire to develop after-action reports during the non-fire season.

F6. The Board of Supervisors’ responses to the Findings and Recommendations of the 2020 Ready? Aim? Fire! report show a lack of engagement with the material and a lack of understanding of their role as advocates for the county.

F7. The adequacy of resources for firefighting in the future is questioned due to uncertainty of mutual aid assistance, deployment and management of volunteer companies, and availability of funding.

Recommendations

R1. In the next 30 days the Board of Supervisors should conduct an investigation to challenge Cal Fire on their preparation for future fire events, Cal Fire’s response to the CZU Complex Fire, and give satisfactory answers to all residents’ questions and concerns as documented in this report. (F1, F2, F3)

R2. In the next six months the Board of Supervisors should adopt a formal policy for handling and logging resident complaints and requests for information. (F1, F3)

R3. Within the next six months, the Board of Supervisors should require that Cal Fire produce timely after-action reports for all major incidents. (F1, F2, F4, F5)

R4. In the next 90 days the Board of Supervisors should direct staff to produce a lessons-learned document for the public summarizing their investigation of Cal Fire and an action plan detailing how preparation for future fire events and response will be improved. (F1, F2, F4, F5)

R5. The Board of Supervisors should revisit its responses to the Grand Jury’s 2020 Ready? Aim? Fire! Report, and rewrite their responses by December 31, 2021 in a document posted on their website to demonstrate hands-on engagement and better preparation for the next fire season. (F6)

R6. Within six months the Board of Supervisors should direct staff to advocate for additional funding for fire preparation and prevention resources from the state of California. (F7)

Commendations

C1. The County Office of Response, Recovery, & Resilience has done an excellent job of providing information and resources on the website.

C2. The County Office of Response, Recovery, & Resilience has developed an excellent capability for expediting permitting and rebuilding. n

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVES The American Red Cross continues to experience a severe blood shortage and donors of all blood types — especially type O and those giving platelets — are urged. The Red Cross needs at least 1,000 blood donations daily for optimum patient care.

In most cases, those who have gotten a COVID-19 vaccine can donate. Knowing the name of the manufacturer of the vaccine is important in determining eligibility.

Appointments can be made by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Donors who come to give thru July 31 will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card via email and will also receive automatic entry for a chance to win gas for a year (a $5,000 value).

Donation dates are:

•••

Santa Cruz

July 21: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 220 Elk Street July 27: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 220 Elk Street July 29: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Hotel Paradox, 611 Ocean Street

Watsonville

July 23: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Community Health Trust of Pajaro Valley, 85 Nielson Street

Scotts Valley

July 31: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. — St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 5271 Scotts Valley Drive

JULY ‘ROADMAP TO RECOVERY’ VIRTUAL WORKSHOPS FOR 2020 WILDFIRE SURVIVORS United Policyholders’ remaining webinars in July 2021 for people affected by wildfires in California in 2020.

••• Deadlines and Decisions at the 1-year anniversary

Tuesday, July 20, 7:00 p.m. • Register: www. uphelp.org/july20

Survivor to Survivor Forums

Wednesday, July 21, 5:30 p.m. • STEP 1 - Register: www.uphelp.org/july21 • STEP 2 - Submit your question: www.uphelp.org/r2rhelp

SANTA CRUZ SHAKESPEARE IS BACK! Featuring professional actors from around the country and inspired by deep local roots that go back more than 40 years, Santa Cruz Shakespeare stages bold productions of the plays of Shakespeare and other great playwrights that stimulate audiences’ senses and spark their imagination.

Santa Cruz Shakespeare performances take place in The Audrey Stanley Grove (or just “The Grove”) at Upper DeLaveaga Park in Santa Cruz. •••

The Agitators: July 20- August 29

RII (Richard II): July 21- August 29 Tickets start at $25 For more info about SCS, visit https://santacruzshakespeare. org/season-2021/, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. Due to limited capacity at the venue, people are encouraged to purchase tickets early.

Have a virtual or live event you want to promote? Send your information to info@cyber-times.com by July 19

Movies begin at dusk. Bring blankets, jackets and low-back chairs.

Dates and Locations:

July 23: Onward, Highlands County Park, 8500 Hwy 9, Ben Lomond. ••• Second Wednesdays Spanish, 7-8:30 p.m. via phone — Facilitator: Yuliana Mendoza. Register by calling 831-647-9890 or email ymflores@alz.org.

SCULPTURE IS: IN THE GARDEN 2021 On display thru Oct. 31 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sierra Azul Nursery and Garden, 2660 East Lake Ave., Watsonville Sculpture IS: In the Garden 2021, is the 15th sculpture exhibit in partnership with Sierra Azul Nursery and Garden.

The jurors, Susana Arias and Jeff Rosendale, selected more than 100 sculptures created by 42 artists and collaborators.

Visit the stunning two-acre demonstration garden, relax under the umbrellas, and spend an afternoon enjoying the outdoor exhibit.

Admission is free. Visitors can see works created by:

Jamie Abbott • Cristy Aloysi • Susana Arias • Jeff Arnett • Nessy Barzilay • Michael Bashista • Lucia Bruer • Trudi Burney • Jay Capela • Lee Cavanaugh • Paul Cheney • Kathleen Crocetti • Sally Diggory • Franco Di Majo • Barbara Downs • Scott Graham • Leonard Groner • Roy Holmberg • William Hufmann • Kristen Kolbek • Marilyn Kuksht • Ron Lion • Lyn MacDonald • Mike McClellan • Kirk McNeill • Susan Megorden • Annie Morhauser • David Mudgett • Geoffrey Nicastro • Nancy Niles • Jeff Owen • Jane Reyes • Pierre Riche • Jewel Rogers • Mandy Spitzer • Judy Stabile • Richard Starks • Aaron Vanderkerckhove • Susan von Schmacht • Jenni Ward • Lea de Wit • April Zilber

BLACK HEALTH MATTERS: FRESH AIR ’21 THIS SUMMER Tannery World Dance & Cultural Center Tannery World Dance & Cultural Center’s Black Health Matters Initiative is kicking off a summer of free programming, Fresh Air ’21, to address and elevate the mental health and wellness of the Black community of Santa Cruz County.

Black Health Matters, with Santa Cruz County Parks and County Parks Friends, will produce a diverse and accessible lineup of COVID-mindful events and experiences led by and for Black residents (and allies) in beautiful outdoor spaces.

From movement classes, guided nature hikes, and selfcare workshops, to weekly virtual content, community gatherings, and celebrations, this summer-long campaign is geared toward having a seat at the table for all. Register: https://tanneryworlddance.com/bhm-happenings/ TWDCC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twdcc_ dance/?hl=en

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS Alzheimer’s Association is offering video and phone meetings for caregivers throughout the month: Second and Fourth Wednesdays Santa Cruz, 2-3:30 p.m. via phone — Facilitators: Jill Ginghofer and Laurie McVay. First and Third Wednesdays Santa Cruz, 5:30-7 p.m. via video or phone — Facilitators: Francie Newfield and Kathleen McBurney. Second Saturdays Scotts Valley, 10-11:30 a.m. via video or phone — Facilitator: Diana Hull. Register by calling 800-272-3900 or email ymflores@alz.org. SENIOR CENTER WITHOUT LIMITS This new program from Community Bridges brings enrichment activities like yoga, art, music, tai chi, cooking, tech and support groups to seniors age 60 and up in their homes at no cost. To participate, you need an internet connection and a computer, tablet or smartphone. To participate, view the calendar at https://communitybridges.org/SCWOL/ and find a class. That day and time, click on the link in the calendar to be connected. If you have a problem connecting, call Clara Munoz at (831) 458-3481.

SECOND HARVEST FOOD DISTRIBUTION Second Harvest Food Bank’s drive-through food distribution will continue operating at the county Fairgrounds 9 a.m.-Noon on the following Fridays: July 23 Aug. 6 • Aug. 20 • Sept. 10 • Sept. 24 Food hotline: 831-662-0991.

CAPITOLA’S FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS Do you love eating outside while enjoying live music? If so, the Capitola’s Food Truck Friday events are perfect for you!

The first event is Friday, July 30 from 4 to 7 p.m. with two more dates, Aug. 27 and Sept. 24.

On July 30, several food trucks featuring different cuisines will be at Monterey Park in Capitola, with live music by Papiba & Friends. Capitola Junior Guard Parent’s Club will host the beer garden, a cordoned-off area where beer is available for purchase.

CABRILLO STAGE: UPCOMING EVENTS Tomfoolery: July 23-25. Pirates of Penzance: July 30-Aug 1 Performances are in the Cabrillo College Outdoor Amphitheater. Visit cabrillostage.com for tickets.

ONGOING EVENTS

Ongoing thru July 31 SUMMER READING All ages are invited to register for the Santa Cruz Public Libraries’ Summer Reading Program June 1 – July 31 and earn prizes and entries to a raffle of local merchant gift cards.

Go to santacruzpl.org/srp, call 831-427-7713, or text 831-264-0647 to sign up and for more information.

Kids up to age 18 get a $10 Atlantis Fantasyworld gift certificate toward a collection of comics and graphic novels.

After reading for 5 hours, kids up to age 11 get a new book selected by librarians, kids 12-18 get a tote bag with goodies, and adults get a tote bag and a raffle ticket. Prizes include a free scoop from The Penny Ice Creamery. Grand prize is family membership to the Monterey Bay Aquarium or the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History.

The Beanstack online platform with mobile app will track summer reading and allow readers to claim rewards. Paper reading logs are available. Summer reading events include magic shows, circus acts, NorCalBats, musical performances, and STEAM projects. See santacruzpl.org/calendar. First and Third Monday Each Month SENIOR LIFE ONLINE 4 p.m., Online Meeting Join a local group of senior citizens for “Senior Life Online,” a free online (Zoom) program featuring a presentation by a local expert. View the full schedule at scottsvalleyseniorlife.org/current-activities/.

Upcoming: Aug. 2 — June Gilliam will discuss her “Journey from a Former Chinese Communist to a Fervent American Patriot.” Aug. 19 — Dan Haifley, Monterey Bay Sanctuary Foundation’s Secretary of the Board, will speak about the Monterey Bay Sanctuary: its ocean health, research and education programs.

To participate, you need an Internet connection and a computer, tablet or smartphone.

A one-time preregistration is required at https:// tinyurl.com/SVSLA-5. Questions? Call George at (831) 334-7763. Senior Life Online is sponsored by Scotts Valley Senior Life Association (SVSLA), a 501(c)(3) non-profit whose mission is to promote healthy living for senior citizens. Information is at http://scottsvalleyseniorlife.org.

Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday NAMI RECOVERY SUPPORT Mon/Wed 1-2:30 p.m., Fri 6-7:30 p.m., confidential Zoom meetings. National Alliance on Mental Illness Santa Cruz County offers the “Connection Recovery Support Group,” a free, peer-led support group for any adult 18 or older who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition (no diagnosis required).

Groups are led by trained leaders who’ve been there. It’s confidential and drop-in friendly.

To attend, complete the registration form. You will immediately get an email with the Zoom link. You will need to do this only once, and will be able to use the same link for all groups in the future. Register at: https://tinyurl.com/namizoom-register.

If you are unable to register, do not have an email address, or have other questions, call the office at (831)-824-0406 or email anastasia@namiscc.org. View previous sessions at https://www.namiscc.org/ Tuesdays FARMERS’ MARKET AT RAMSAY PARK 2–6 p.m., Ramsay Park, Watsonville El Mercado is a new farmers’ market hosted by Community Health Trust of Pajaro Valley.

There will be healthy locally grown produce, a veggie Rx redemption site, cooking demonstrations and wellness screenings. Sponsors include Lakeside Organic, Salud Para La Gente and Kaiser Permanente. Visit pvhealthtrust.org/elmercado for more info.

ROTACARE RETURNS! 5:30-8 p.m., Behind Star of the Sea Church, 515 Frederick St. Santa Cruz The Free RotaCare Santa Cruz Clinic is reopening at its new location. For more info, call 831-204-6040 or visit https://www. rotacarebayarea.org/santacruz