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November 15, 2021 • Vol 30 No. 22
Doing Good with Golf
In 1979, Paul Bailey, who graduated from Aptos High in 1970, looked at the sports facilities of his alma mater, which were not complete, and made a suggestion for a golf tournament fundraiser. “Why don’t we do one for the high school?” he proposed. That’s how the Aptos Sports Foundation started. Full Story page 4
It’s Time To Adopt-A-Family Full Story page 5
Cabrillo Local Government Fellows Program
Being Thankful As Thanksgiving approaches, we can be thankful to live in a community that features such natural beauty — and talented photographers who capture that beauty for us.
Photographer Howard Boots McGhee, who lives in Seacliff, is sharing his photo of a gorgeous sunset over the Cement Ship, a local landmark. See his work at https://www.bootsite.net/
When Arne Croce was a high school freshman, he was on the college-prep track to get into a university — until his father died unexpectedly. Full Story page 11
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No. 22
Volume 30
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30
Table of Contents
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Cover Being Thankful 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 15 17 18 20 23 24 25 30
Community News Doing Good with Golf, By Jondi Gumz Connecting Families With Families: Aptos Adopt-A-Family: Making the Holidays Brighter for Those in Need PUC Response on PG&E Outage • CPUC to PG&E: Respond on NoNotice Outages Letter By Nov. 8 Two More COVID Deaths; Goodbye Herd Immunity, By Jondi Gumz Goraya to head Monterey Bay Economic Partnership • Matt Huffaker Named New Santa Cruz City Manager $1.2 Trillion Infrastructure Bill Passed: What’s in it for Santa Cruz County Local Government Fellows Program: Cabrillo College Endowment’s Goal is to Launch with $100,000, By Jondi Gumz Girl Power: Girl Scouts Aid Sheltered Animals in Tough Times, By Carrie Mulcaire In the Military? Know Your Rights Vets Village Planned in Ben Lomond: Donations in November will be Matched up to $75,000 Monte Vista’s Bella Primavera Signs with University of South Carolina, By Jondi Gumz Armstrong Appointed CalFire CZU Unit Chief? • Kaiser Gives $200,000 to New Mental Health Center in Watsonville Paradise Fire Lesson Learned Who Is Drawing New Assembly District Lines?, By Jondi Gumz Independent Review of AHS Fatality Underway • Credit Union’s ‘Return the Favor’ a Success for 12 Nonprofits $4 Million in Road Damage from CZU Fire Cleanup Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – Stars Falling Like Rain, Gratitude & Light in the Darkness & More, By Risa D’Angeles Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29
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Featured Columnists Are Grandma and Grandpa OK?, By Lisa McGrath 2021 County Fair Apple Pie Winner, recipe by Janice Weaver Reasons to Support Local Businesses This Holiday Season, By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District
SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 31 – Homer is a Staff and Volunteer Favorite!
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Patrice Edwards Jondi Gumz
Doing Good with Golf
publisher editor
contributing writers Jondi Gumz, Carrie Mulcaire, Risa D’Angeles, Lisa McGrath, Janice Weaver, Zach Friend
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 media consultants Teri Huckobey, Brooke Valentine, Tara Carcamo office coordinator Cathe Race distribution Bill Pooley, James Hudson
Times Publishing Group, Inc. 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 The Times Publishing Group, Inc., publishers of the Aptos Times, a bi-monthly publication, the Capitola Soquel Times and Scotts Valley Times, each printed monthly, Coastal Weddings Magazine, Coastal Home and Garden Magazine, Aptos’ Fourth of July Parade Official Program Guide and Capitola’s Summer Festivals Official Program Guide, is owned by Patrice Edwards. Entire contents ©2021. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission
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By Jondi Gumz
n 1979, Paul Bailey, who graduated from Aptos High in 1970, looked at the sports facilities of his alma mater, which were not complete, and made a suggestion for a golf tournament fundraiser. “Why don’t we do one for the high school?” he proposed. That’s how the Aptos Sports Foundation started. “I saw a need to be the connection between alumni, the business community, the high school and the Aptos community,” said Bailey, co-owner with his brother Robert of Bailey Properties in Aptos. The nonprofit Paul Bailey started at age 27 is going strong 42 years later. He’s still the chairman, passionate about doing something “for our kids.” Bailey Properties provides administrative staffing, which keeps expenses low. Sold Out his year, the tournament returned to Seascape Golf Club after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the date changed to October. It sold out — a full field of 148 golfers. A lot of people came because this year’s tournament was dedicated to the late Mark Holcomb, who developed Seascape Beach Resort and numerous residential projects in Aptos. He had played in every one of the Aptos Sports Foundation’s golf tournaments. “He had always supported us,” Bailey said, recalling how the foundation “graduated” him from Aptos High and gave him a letterman’s jacket. Holcomb died Nov. 16, 2020.
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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 / November 15th 2021 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
With worries about the coronavirus spreading, a traditional memorial was out of the question. So people showed their respect in a safe venue outdoors and at the dinner indoors, paid tribute with a minute of silence. The event started at 12:30 p.m., and everyone finished before dark. Aptos High School athletes helped out running contests such as “closest to the pin.” In the “gorilla drive” contest, student athletes hit the drives for the players. For non-golfers, there was a corn hole competition. “It was almost like a reunion out there,” Bailey said. Student athletes served food to 170 guests at the dinner, which included an auction and raffle. Watsonville Coast Produce, founded
in 1937 and run by Gary Manfre, provided fresh veggies. Another supporter is Deluxe Foods of Aptos, owned by Marc Monte. The auction raised over $10,000, and the tournament netted $45,000 for athletic facilities at Aptos High School. Aptos Loves Aptos arion Proffitt, a real estate agent with Bailey Properties who came here from Chino Valley to be closer to her grandchildren, explains it: “As Paul says, Aptos loves Aptos.” Aptos has about 6,600 residents. It’s an unincorporated area with neighborhoods, shopping centers and beaches in Santa Cruz County — not a city, so while a county supervisor represents Aptos and adjoining areas, there is no mayor.
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“Aptos Sports Foundation” page 8
COMMUNITY NEWS
Connecting Families With Families
Aptos Adopt-A-Family: Making the Holidays Brighter for Those in Need
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or 29 years, Aptos Adopt-A-Family has been here for the community during the holidays. Our program was started in 1992 when Patrice Edwards and a friend stepped in to help a family who had lost their financial stability due to an illness in the family. They raised money, helped them get through the holidays, and Aptos Adopt-AFamily was born.
Over the years we have helped hundreds of people celebrate their holiday without stress. There have been thousands of gifts, including wheelchairs, a handicap accessible van, lifts, food, clothes, toys, bikes, rent—gifts that helped many a family enjoy their holiday. Aptos Adopt-A-Family focuses primarily on families that are having financial challenges due to a medical catastrophe within their family. Death or illness in a family is devastating and can emotionally and financially cripple. Our program can step in and put the family in contact with one of the many people who have already called us and are ready to adopt a family. Our sponsor will provide their “adopted” family with gifts for the holiday and any medical products, services, and goods for the home. They do the shopping and wrap the gifts (this is optional) and deliver them to the Times Publishing Group office. The adopted family comes and picks up the gifts.
Though the adopted family’s identity is anonymous, some of them choose to meet their sponsor. Some families even go holiday shopping together! Several of these families have stayed friends over the years. Adopt-A-Family also helps by including gift certificates to local stores and helps with any gifts the sponsor is unable to provide. Aptos-Adopt-A-Family depends on the community for funds. Please donate knowing that 100% of your donation goes to the families. If you would like to donate, please send your donation to: Times Publishing Group, Inc. Attn: Cathe Race 9601 Soquel Drive Ste. A Aptos, CA 95003 ••• If you are interested in adopting a family or know of someone who needs help, please call 831-688-7549 x10 or email cathe@cyber-times. com.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
PUC Response on PG&E Outages Editor’s note: Here is the letter Marybel Batjer, president of California Public Utilities Commission, sent Nov. 1 to Santa Cruz County Supervisor Bruce McPherson, board chairman, on PG&E’s “Fast Trip” outages: Thank you for your September 29, 2021 letter regarding Pacific Gas and Electric Company’s (PG&E) use of Fast Trip settings1 and the resultant outages. I share your concerns and frustration about the significant impact that these outages are having on customers and your concerns about PG&E’s approach to advanced outreach and communication. I know that customers in Santa Cruz County have been particularly impacted by these outages. As you stated, Fast Trip outages are more than a matter of inconvenience, they are a life and safety issue. As I communicated to PG&E in an October 25, 2021 letter2 (see below), they must take immediate action to reduce and mitigate customer impacts and ensure that all
communities who may be impacted by Fast Trip are better informed and supported. PG&E will be reporting on its use of Fast Trip settings in its 2022 Wildfire Mitigation Plan Update. I am also requiring PG&E to respond to a series of questions posed in my October 25th letter by November 8, 2021. This includes questions responsive to your request for information on the operational steps PG&E is taking to reduce or avoid Fast Trip outages. PG&E will serve this information on the service lists for the Commission’s Wildfire Mitigation Plan (R.18-10-007) and PG&E Safety Culture (I.1508-019) proceedings. In addition, I am requiring PG&E to provide monthly reports to the Director of our Safety Enforcement Division and copy to those same service lists that will describe the occurrence, causes, and impacts of all Fast Trip outages. “Response to County” page 9
CPUC to PG&E: Respond on No-Notice Outages Letter By Nov. 8
Editor’s note: Here is the California Public Utilities Commission president’s Oct. 25, 2021 letter to PG&E CEO Patricia Poppe ordering responses by Nov. 8: ••• acific Gas and Electric Company’s (PG&E) execution and communication of its wildfire mitigation device setting known as Fast Trip1 has been extremely concerning and requires immediate action to better support customers in the event of an outage. This letter details my concerns and provides direction to PG&E regarding my expectations going forward. Since PG&E initiated the Fast Trip setting practice on 11,500 miles of lines in High Fire Threat Districts in late July, it has caused over 500 unplanned power outages impacting over 560,000 customers. These Fast Trip-caused outages occur with no notice and can last hours or days. Though PG&E reports that implementation of Fast Trip settings has significantly reduced reportable wildfire ignitions
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from contact with its power lines, this approach has also significantly increased the frequency and duration of unplanned power outages for its customers, causing confusion and frustration in communities constantly vigilant of wildfire threats. While I acknowledge how critical it is to public safety to reduce the risk of utility-ignited wildfires, it appears that PG&E decided to implement Fast Trip settings this summer with little forethought as to whether the settings were appropriately calibrated, what outreach to public safety partners and customers was necessary in advance, and how customer impacts would be mitigated and vulnerable customers’ medical needs addressed. Fast Trip outages are more than a matter of inconvenience – they are disruptive, and for customers who rely on electricity to maintain necessary life functions, they can be life-threatening. “PG&E Action Required” page 9
COMMUNITY NEWS
Two More COVID Deaths; Goodbye Herd Immunity By Jondi Gumz
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hen health officials talk about the COVID-19 pandemic, you may not hear the words “herd immunity.” Even though deaths have risen — 759,000 in the United States, 72,000 in California and 222 in Santa Cruz County — officials at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control no longer see herd immunity as a national goal. Once 70 percent of the population (or 80 percent or 85 percent) was vaccinated against COVID-19, the new coronavirus would fade away — the world could return to normal. That idea, based on immunity to measles for children who got the disease, doesn’t seem to work with the easily spread Delta variant even as the vaccination rose to 58.5 percent fully vaccinated nationwide. California reports 73.7 percent have one dose; Santa Cruz County has 72.3 percent with one dose and 67.5 percent fully vaccinated. The Los Angeles Times quoted Dr. Jefferson Jones of the CDC’s COVID-19 Epidemiology Task Force telling a vaccine advisory panel that achieving a threshold where the virus does not spread may not be possible. Vaccines have been effective at preventing death, but not blocking spread, he said. Studies show protection from Pfizer’s and Moderna’s vaccine begins to wane after a few months, which is why booster shots are available. However, studies show both vaccines are highly protective against hospitalization. Santa Cruz County reports 408 active cases — up from 324 two weeks ago — five hospitalizations, unchanged, none in intensive care. One vaccine, Pfizer, was granted emergency use authorization for kids age 5-11. The first vaccine clinic for kids 5-11 in Aptos, offered through the Santa Cruz County Office of Education, was Nov. 10 at Valencia Elementary, and 21 students were vaccinated. At Mar Vista Elementary, 25 students had vaccine appointments on Nov. 12. Each school has 32 slots available. Appointments must be made in advance at: https://santacruzcoe.org/ vaccines/pvusd/ Court Blocks Mandate n Nov. 6, a federal appellate court in Louisiana temporarily blocked a new vaccine mandate for employers with 100 or more employees (part time as well as fulltime — independent contractors are not counted). President Biden ordered the mandate requiring 100 million workers to be vaccinated or get tests weekly, giving businesses until Jan. 4 to comply. Attorneys general from 27 states sued.
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more lives in Santa Cruz County – two Latino men, both with underlying conditions — bringing the number of deaths to 222. The county reports 324 active cases, 20,517 cases since the pandemic began and 618 requiring hospitalization. Boosters n Nov. 3, with winter on the horizon, Santa Cruz County Public health officials encouraged everyone eligible to get a booster shot because of the waning protection. Boosters are recommended for: Anyone 18 and older who got their Johnson & Johnson shot 2 or more months ago, most people who received their Pfizer or Moderna shot 6 or more months ago, people 65+ or 18 and older living in a longterm care facility, and people 50+ with an underlying condition. The CDC definition of an underlying medical condition is very broad, and a significant portion of the population qualifies for a booster, according to health officials, adding that people are free to “mix and match” vaccines to get protection. “COVID Update” page 10
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Hundreds rally on Ocean Street in Santa Cruz Nov. 3 in support of vaccine choice. One argument is the president set legisTesting sites are open at Cabrillo’s lative policy, which is the job of Congress, parking lot K, 2-5 p.m. Monday-Friday and and another is Congress did not give federal 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; the PVUSD District Occupational Safety and Health adminis- Office parking lot, open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. trators the power to end pandemics. Mondays, Wednesday, and Fridays, and One of the questions recently fielded the county Office of Education, 400 Encinal by Pajaro Valley Superintendent Dr. St., Santa Cruz. Michelle Rodriguez was: Why is the Juan Straub, Inspire project manager, vaccine mandated for students? said 230 people got tested on Nov. 10 Gov. Newsom announced plans to despite the rain. add the COVID-19 vaccine to the list of Students and their families, and vaccinations required to attend in-person staff and their families can use this free school once the vaccine gets full approval service. Those needing a test simply fill but Rodriguez explained that the vaccine is out the registration once at http://sccoe. still not a state requirement. link/inspiresc and go to any site. No “Therefore, currently PVUSD appointment is needed. encourages but does not require neither Locally the Delta variant claimed two staff nor students to be vaccinated. Once the State implements the COVID-19 vaccination requirement, PVUSD will follow the law,” she added, noting the law would have personal exemptions. Drugstores have Pfizer vaccine for kids 5-11 but on Nov. 12, there was no availability in Aptos. Plenty of Free Customer Parking The closest locations are Walgreens in Freedom and Santa Cruz and RiteAid in Freedom, according to VaccineFinder, Wilder Associates Inc. Joy of Movement which is searchable at santacruzhealth.org. Property Management Specialists Pilates & Gyrotonic® Dr. Faris Sabbah, Santa Cruz County 662-0291 More Zest for Life superintendent of schools, is working with 688-8077 all nine school districts to offer vaccine clinics for kids age 5 to 11. For details, see: https://santacruzcoe.org/vaccines/ Kumon Math Active School Cases & Reading Center Epicenter Cycling abbah launched a website, santacruzcoe. Learning for the Long Run Trek Bicycles for All Types of Riders org/coviddashboards, to report active cases and test results. 508-8200 662-8100 Pajaro Valley Unified School District reported nine active student cases and zero active staff cases. Village Liquors Dentistry for Animals Pacific Coast Charter School has two For All Your Beverage Needs active cases. So does Watsonville High. Dr. Judy Force, DVM There is one each at Valencia 688-5691 768-7148 Elementary, Mintie White Elementary, Radcliffe Elementary, E.A. Hall Middle School and Pajaro Valley High. State guidelines require students and school staff working with them to be masked indoors although Santa Cruz County lifted its indoor mask mandate Sept. 29. With Inspire Diagnostics, the County Office of Education has conducted more than 38,000 PCR surveillance tests for COVID at no charge to those tested.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Goraya to head Monterey Bay Economic Partnership T ahra Goraya will become president & CEO of the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership on Jan. 3, succeeding Kate Roberts, who has led the organization since 2015 and is retiring at year’s end. “Tahra brings an amazing set of qualities and experience to Tahra Goraya the position and will build on the superb foundation that Kate Roberts has built over the last 6 years,” said Eduardo Ochoa, MBEP board chairman. “Kate has been so influential in creating partnerships in the region, expanding membership, and driving positive change through our key initiatives — affordable housing, equitable access to broadband,
workforce development, and climate change. We are a better region because of Kate’s leadership.” Goraya is a California native, an organizational consultant and executive coach in Boston, and before that, director for Zero to Three Western Regional Office, a national early childhood public policy and research organization. She spent two-and-a-half years as district director for California State Sen. Carol Liu; was national director for the Council on American Islamic Relations, an American Muslim civil rights organization in Washington, D.C.; and almost seven years as executive director of Day One in Pasadena, a substance abuse prevention and policy organization, where she helped get legislation passed for more than a dozen policies.
Her achievements include the Barbara Jordan Award for Women’s Leadership from the Harvard Kennedy School Woman and Public Policy Program and chosen by the California State Senate and Assembly nonprofit executive director of the year. She is the founder of Milton Muslim Neighbors, advisor to Latino Muslim Unity, and in 2019, she was elected Town Meeting Member in Milton. She’s a member of the advisory board for the Center for Women in Politics and Public Policy at UMass Boston. She grew up in Bakersfield, the daughter of Pakistani Punjabi Muslim immigrant parents. The oldest of five children, she learned early the importance of hard work and the struggles of immigrant families, especially in farming communities.
She learned about agriculture in Kern County from her father, an agronomist. She graduated from UC Irvine with a degree in biology, earned a master’s in organizational management from the University of Phoenix, and a master’s in public administration from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government with an emphasis in management, leadership, and decision sciences. She and her family are excited to return to California. “I am elated to lead MBEP during the next stage of its development and growth,” said Goraya, citing the organization’s focus on equity, environment and economic vitality. “I cannot wait to partner with various stakeholders to build upon the great legacy of the founders to improve the quality of life and economic health of the region.” n
Matt Huffaker Named New Santa Cruz City Manager
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atsonville City Manager Matt Huffaker will become Santa Cruz city manager on Jan. 3, replacing Rosemary Menard, the former water department manager who is doing the job on an interim basis. Huffaker’s salary will be $22,199 a month, or $266,388 annually. On Nov. 9, the city council unanimously approved his appointment. Huffaker, 37, started as deputy city manager in Watsonville in 2016 and became city manager three years ago. Before that, he held leadership positions with the City of Walnut Creek for 10 years, advancing to deputy city manager. In Watsonville, Huffaker doubled
“Aptos Sports Foundation” from page 4 Aptos High School is the place that can bring everyone together to focus on the students, the next generation. Under Bailey’s leadership, the Aptos Sports Foundation built the football facility, the baseball park, installed the marquee at the school’s entrance, put up scoreboards, resurfaced tennis courts and resurfaced the track twice. Travis Fox, Aptos High athletic director, came here from Colorado and found the support in Aptos “truly amazing” – a level of support he hadn’t seen elsewhere in his 12 years working in education. Because California’s funding falls
the city’s General Fund reserves while expanding Parks, Arts and Recreation services. He led an inclusive public outreach and education effort that resulted in a 79 percent voter approval for a halfcent sales tax, funding for police, fire and Matt Huffaker parks and recreation in perpetuity. Huffaker spearheaded the city’s first Employee Engagement Action Plan to build a more connected, empowered, and valued organizational culture.
Before this news came out, he and Watsonville Mayor Jimmy Dutra visited staff at Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Services, which is looking for 10,000 square feet for a new home. Huffaker is vice chair of the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership and treasurer of Second Harvest Food Bank. He’s a 2006 political science graduate of Point Loma Nazarene University with a master’s in public administration from Cal State East Bay, and he attended UC Berkeley’s Executive Leadership Program. He’s married to Jocelyn Huffaker; they have three children and live in Soquel. “Matt has a unique set of qualifications to make a positive impact for
our community quickly,” said Mayor Donna Meyers. “Not only will he bring a wealth of operational experience to the role, but he will also arrive with deep relationships across the region already in place.” She added, “The Council was particularly impressed with his breadth of creative ideas that stem from his experience, vision, and leadership values.” Huffaker said, “I think my local experience and established regional partnerships will allow me to hit the ground running. I’m ready to get to work.” One of the city of Santa Cruz regional partnerships is with Soquel Creek Water District. n
short of what’s needed, many high school teams are supported by parents of children on the team donating money. Not so at Aptos High. Close to 700 Athletes here’s no charge to play athletics here,” Fox said, noting the school fields 26 teams, with close to 700 of the 1,415 students involved in athletics. Expenses add up with officiating (which the district funds 60%) and League fees totaling $17,000. For football and basketball, fans pay admission, but there’s no charge to watch water polo. “We break even,” Fox said. “There’s not a whole lot extra.”
The foundation’s next project is to build Holcomb’s Landing, installing concrete steps for student seating near the snack shack, replacing an area that in rainy weather gets quite muddy. The foundation has a declaration of support and collaboration from the Pajaro Valley Unified School District, which has approved the project, and permits from the Division of the State Architect. Because it’s a private project, the foundation will select the contractors. Bailey expects to seek donations of rebar to further lower the cost. On the to-do list: New batting cages. Bailey has a big idea in mind: Building
an endowment fund over the next five to 10 years. “We’re building future citizens,” he said. “Aptos Loves Aptos.” n To learn more, visit https://www.aptos sportsfoundation.com/
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“PG&E Action Required” from page 6 I am aware that PG&E has begun recalibrating its original Fast Trip settings to be less sensitive and has begun better communicating with impacted communities, however, from my current perspective, it is clear that PG&E is still in planning mode. PG&E must immediately work to address customer impacts for communities affected by these outages. Unlike a Public Safety Power Shutoff event, by definition, Fast Trip settings do not allow for advance notice to customers of an outage. This means that customers, public safety partners, and critical infrastructure providers have no ability to plan and prepare for one of these outages. While there are important dissimilarities between Public Safety Power Shutoffs and Fast Trip, I am worried that there are striking similarities in the obvious flaws in PG&E’s approach to its initial execution and customer communication on both programs. An approach that can only charitably be characterized as shortsighted. In both instances, care and understanding for how the loss of power may affect customers has been overwhelmingly absent. These apparent similarities are not just disappointing, they are deeply and sincerely concerning, and continue to raise questions about PG&E’s ability to evolve as a company and to internalize and prioritize customer well-being. To the extent PG&E plans to continue use of Fast Trip settings, we understand PG&E will introduce and report on this approach in its 2022 Wildfire Mitigation Plan submission to the Office of Energy Infrastructure Safety. While we expect that PG&E will continue to work with the Office of Energy Infrastructure Safety and Commission staff to communicate and demonstrate where this approach falls in PG&E’s overall wildfire mitigation strategy, in the very near-term, having this program active has real consequences for the health, comfort and safety of PG&E’s customers. I expect PG&E to take immediate action to reduce and mitigate customer impacts and ensure that all communities who may be impacted by Fast Trip are better informed and supported. While this is my clear top-level expectation, I also expect PG&E to comply with the following directives.
“Response to County” from page 6 The reporting requirements and related directives included in my letter are intended to build transparency and drive action by PG&E in the very near-term. The CPUC will also continue to gather and analyze information regarding PG&E’s implementation of, and communication on, Fast Trip and will take any enforcement actions as appropriate. Thank you again for reaching out
Care and understanding for how the loss of power may affect customers has been overwhelmingly absent. Near-Term Transparency and Action y Nov. 8, 2021, provide a written response to the questions below to the Director of the Commission’s Safety Enforcement Division and serve it on the service lists for the Wildfire Mitigation Plan and PG&E Safety Culture proceedings. • What level of analysis did PG&E conduct in advance of deploying Fast Trip settings regarding the potential impacts of Fast Trip on outage frequency and duration? How do the scope and duration of outages that have occurred align with estimates from any analysis conducted pre-deployment? • Describe PG&E’s understanding of how its Fast Trip settings and the specific parameters used to configure devices differ from similar settings Southern California Edison Company and San Diego Gas & Electric Company are using or have used on their systems to prevent ignitions. • Describe the operational details, with timelines, for how PG&E will manage its Fast Trip settings approach and how objectives such as reduced scope, duration and frequency of outages are prioritized. • What conditions or criteria will PG&E use to determine when to suspend use of Fast Trip in a particular location? • What conditions or criteria will PG&E use to determine when to deploy Fast Trip in a particular location in the future? • How is PG&E identifying medical baseline customers, critical infrastructure providers, and public safety partners who may be impacted on the circuits where Fast Trip settings have been implemented? What specifically tailored outreach has occurred to each of these groups? If none has occurred, what are PG&E’s plans for specifically tailored outreach to each of these groups? • What actions is PG&E taking to support these customers and minimize the impacts of outages? For example, is PG&E working with its Disability
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Disaster Access and Resources program and appropriately providing funding, and are local Independent Living Centers notified as soon as a Fast Trip outage occurs? • How is PG&E ensuring that customers who rely on electricity to maintain necessary life functions will be able to weather the full duration of a Fast Trip outage? • How many customers who rely on electricity to maintain necessary life functions, including for durable medical equipment and assistive technology, does PG&E estimate have been impacted by Fast Trip outages to date? • Does PG&E have a well-defined list of customers who rely on electricity to maintain necessary life function who are on circuits subject to Fast Trip settings? • If it does not have a list, what actions is PG&E taking to have a clear understanding of where these customers are located? • What post-Fast Trip outage outreach is PG&E conducting to customers on circuits that have been highly impacted by Fast Trip? • Does PG&E provide information on how to enroll in its medical baseline program and make customers aware of resiliency programs like DDAR and the portable back up battery program? • How has PG&E increased its staffing and contracting resources to ensure that outage inspections are occurring in a manner that allows for re-energizing lines quickly and safely? • How is PG&E calculating and tracking costs associated with implementation of its Fast Trip settings? • Is PG&E including unplanned outages caused by Fast Trip in the annual reliability reporting requirements for System Average Interruption Duration Index and System Average Interruption
Frequency Index as laid out in Decision 16-01-008? If not, please explain why. Ongoing Transparency and Accountability Reporting eginning Nov. 8, 2021, PG&E must provide monthly reports to the Director of the Commission’s Safety Enforcement Division and serve them on the service lists for the Wildfire Mitigation Plan and PG&E Safety Culture proceedings. The reports shall include at a minimum the information listed below and the cadence and content of the reports may be augmented at any time at the discretion of the Safety Enforcement Division. • For every Fast Trip outage on a circuit: Total scope of customers impacted, include specifics for: Number of medical baseline customers impacted and number of customers who rely on electricity to maintain necessary life functions impacted; number of well water customers impacted; number of schools impacted; number of hospitals impacted • Duration • Cause of outage, if known • Efforts undertaken to clear lines and restore power within 60 minutes • The total number of times that a circuit has experienced a Fast Trip event • Trends of scope and duration of outages on repeatedly impacted circuits Cost Tracking o the extent it is not already doing so, PG&E is directed to track all of the costs associated with Fast Trip separately from other wildfire mitigation activity costs, including costs associated with customer communication, outage response, and inspection. While the reporting requirements and related directives included in this letter are intended to drive action by PG&E in the very near-term, the CPUC will continue to gather information regarding PG&E’s implementation and communication of Fast Trip and will take any enforcement actions as appropriate. Customer care and safety, which consists of more than just the absence of utility-ignited wildfires, is a top priority for the CPUC. We expect PG&E to not only share this priority, but to execute its activities in a way that reflects this priority. n
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about this important issue. If you would like to discuss this matter further, please contact John Baker, the CPUC’s local liaison for Santa Cruz County, at John. Baker@cpuc.ca.gov. n ••• 1: Also referred to as Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings 2: https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/-/media/cpuc-website/ divisions/safety-and-enforcement-division/ documents/batjer-letter/cpuc-president-batjerletter-to-pge-re-fast-trip-oct-25-2021.pdf
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COMMUNITY NEWS
$1.2 Trillion Infrastructure Bill Passed
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n Nov. 5, Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley) voted to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to make $1.2 trillion in investments in the nation’s physical infrastructure. The bill was approved 228-206 after 13 Republican members of the House of R e p re s e n t a t i v e s joined 215 Democrats to vote yes. The Senate passed the bill 69-30, with 19 Republicans joining all 50 Democrats. With support Jimmy Panetta from some Republicans, the bill was dubbed by supporters as bipartisan. President Joe Biden hailed the bill’s passage but did not immediately sign it. He is expected to sign it once Congress returns the week of Nov. 15. “For far too long we’ve underinvested in our nation’s infrastructure,” said Panetta. “This legislation will make significant investments in our infrastructure that will improve our supply chains, bolster our economy, increase jobs, help prevent wildfires, enhance rural broadband, broaden
“COVID Update” from page 7 Rally For Choice hile some parents are eager to have their younger children vaccinated in hopes of returning to normality, others contend vaccines should be a choice, not a mandate. On Nov. 3, hundreds of parents rallied in Santa Cruz to register their dismay with Gov. Newsom’s plan to mandate vaccines for children attending school in person. The rally, sponsored locally by GuardiansofYouth.com, was part of the worldwide walkout initiated by attorney Robert F. Kennedy Jr. He’s the founder of Children’s Health Defense, which opposes mandatory vaccination of children at K-12 schools and school staff, college students and staff, and employees and calls for freedom of choice. Dr. Jefferson Jones of the CDC shared these statistics with the vaccine advisory committee. In 17 months from Jan. 1, 2020, to Oct. 16, 2021, COVID-19 claimed the lives of 94 children age 5-11. For comparison, he showed causes of death for kids 5-11 in 2019, the year before the pandemic. The most fatalities, 949, were due to accidents, followed by 525 due to cancer
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What’s in it for Santa Cruz County?
our water resources, and fight the effects of climate change. I’m proud to have worked on and supported such a transformational and bipartisan bill that clearly will strengthen the foundation upon which our democracy can go forward and lead in the 21st century.” According to Panetta’s office, the bill includes: Wildfire Risk Reduction: $3.369 billion to the Department of the Interior and USDA-Forest Service for wildfire risk reduction by providing funding for community wildfire defense grants, mechanical thinning, controlled burns, the Collaborative Forest Restoration Program, and firefighting resources. It also includes provisions of Panetta’s REPLANT Act, designed to create nearly 49,000 jobs over the next decade and prevent damaging mudslides after intense wildfire seasons. Supply Chain Fixes: $17 billion for port infrastructure, to help expand ports and ease the supply chain crisis. $9.5 billion for the Army Corps of Engineers $4 billion for Operations and Maintenance, the account that funds dredging in the Santa Cruz Harbor as maintenance.
Water Infrastructure: $55 billion including $8.3 billion for the Bureau of Reclamation for Western water infrastructure. $3.2 billion for aging water infrastructure $1.15 billion for water storage, groundwater storage, and conveyance projects $250 million for desalination projects $1 billion for rural water projects $300 million for a Drought Contingency Plan $400 million for WaterSMART water and energy efficiency grants $100 million for the Cooperative Watershed Management Program $250 million for the Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Program $100 million for multi-benefit watershed projects Repairs to Roads & Bridges: $110 billion for new roads, bridges, and major surface transportation projects. $40 billion for bridge repair, replacement, and rehab. $5.25 billion for the Low-No (emission) bus grant program. Public Transit: $39 billion in new investments for public transit, which will benefit Monterey-Salinas Transit and Santa Cruz Metro.
Expands Broadband: $65 billion with the goal to ensure every American has access to reliable high-speed internet, critical after COVID. $40 billion in grants to states $600 million for Private Activity Bonds to finance broadband deployment, specifically for projects in rural areas. $2 billion for broadband programs administered by the UDSA, including the ReConnect Program, which provides loans and grants to fund construction, acquisition, or improvement of facilities and equipment for broadband service in rural areas Energy Grid: $27.65 in grid infrastructure designed to help keep the lights on in the face of extreme weather and natural disasters, reducing the need for Public Safety Power Shutoffs. Clean Energy Supply Chains: $7.7 billion for clean energy supply chains. $3 billion for battery materials $3 billion for battery manufacturing and recycling grants EV Charging Stations: $7.5 billion to build a national network of electric vehicle charging stations, with the goal to accelerate consumers buying electric vehicles. n
tumors, 274 due to abnormalities at birth, 207 homicides and 115 to heart disease. Some parents are worried about myocarditis, heart inflammation, which has been reported in adolescent and young adult males. It is a rare condition and Dr. Steven Black, co-director of the Global Vaccine Data Network, a consortium researching vaccine safety, told The New York Times that physicians will know to look for it. Some parents worried about longterm side effects do not want to vaccinate their children. In other cases, if the children have had COVID, the parents contend they have natural immunity. Enrollments in California’s K-12 public schools — and in Pajaro Valley — dropped from pre-pandemic levels, and homeschooling in California has tripled in two years, with some reports that parents are moving to Idaho and Utah because of SB 277, the 2015 law banning all but medical exemptions for vaccines. As of Nov. 11, there were 19,887 recovered in Santa Cruz County ; statistics are updated on Mondays and Thursdays. The CDC tracker reports 80 percent of those eligible in Santa Cruz County are fully vaccinated, and a test positivity rate of .1.37 percent, lower than the statewide rate of 2.3 percent. The state rate has been declining.
For local vaccine information, see www.santacruzhealth.org Business Rebound igns of business confidence: The Aptos Chamber of Commerce plans its first in person breakfast meeting on Nov, 18 with Sheriff Jim Hart. Local business owners are gearing up for Small Business Saturday, Nov. 27, in hopes people will opt out of chain-store shopping on Black Friday, Nov. 26, and shop local. Jeff Hickey, co-owner of Soul Salad in Aptos, switched his schedule to Tuesday through Saturday. Soulmate, a new clothing and footwear store, opened in Aptos. Aptos St. Barbeque is smoking non-GMO free-range turkeys for Thanksgiving; quantities are limited, so order in advance. Tabitha Stroup, proprietor of Friend in Cheeses Jam Co. and Terroir in a Jar, was dealing with a “very severe” glass shortage with no 8 oz. jars to be had. Now she’s leased the former Miramar restaurant space at 532 Main St, Watsonville, and her sister Jennifer Santillana, opened SHEF, which sells vintage cookware and houseware. Many businesses have “help wanted” signs. Mr. Z’s Crepes in Aptos asked
customers to be patient because of short staffing. Numbers posted Oct. 19 show a healthy 105,100 jobs in Santa Cruz County in September, and unemployment down to 5.4%. Indeed.com plans a virtual job fair for veterans on Nov. 19. The New York Times advised people to shop earlier this year because of expected shipping delays due to pandemic-induced supply chain problems. Shopping local is a way to avoid that problem. n ••• Total cases: 20,517 ••• COVID Deaths: 222 As of Nov. 11 Age 85 and older: 98 • 75-84: 48 • 65-74: 40 60-64: 13 • 55-59: 3 • 45-54: 8 35-44: 7 • 25-34: 5 Underlying Conditions Yes:176 • No: 46 Race White 122 • Latinx 82 • Asian 15 • Black 1 Amer Indian/Alaskan native 1 Gender Male: 113 • Female 109 Aging Facility Yes: 105 • No 117
10 / November 15th 2021 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Local Government Fellows Program
Cabrillo College Endowment’s Goal is to Launch with $100,000 By Jondi Gumz
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hen Arne Croce was a high school freshman, he was on the college-prep track to get into a university — until his father died unexpectedly. Within a year, he dropped out of band and sports, picked up bad habits, and neglected schoolwork. Graduating with a 2.0 grade-point average, he had few options, enrolling by default at Cabrillo College. “I was convinced I was not cut out for school,” he recalled. The faculty at Cabrillo — stimulating and attentive — changed his mind. “They made me want to learn,” Croce said. “I trained myself to concentrate and study and to my surprise, I started to do well.” With his counselor encouraging him, Croce was accepted at UC Berkeley. This led to a bachelor’s degree in political science, a master’s in public administration, and a 30-year career in city management. He was city manager in Los Altos, then San Mateo, before spending a year traveling with his wife and heading a San Mateo nonprofit. Now that they are back in Santa Cruz County, Croce is launching the Local Government Fellows program at Cabrillo College.
From Left: Eileen Hill, executive director, Cabrillo College Foundation; Arne Croce; Gail Pellerin, former Santa Cruz County Clerk It’s “a way to give back to the institution that gave me the start to a wonderful and fulfilling career and to promote local government careers,” he said. Croce contends developing dedicated, competent, and diverse local government managers is key to maintaining essential services provided by cities, counties, and special districts.
The program is to include: A $2,000 scholarship, a paid internship with a local government agency — a key element and Croce said he has commitments from Santa Cruz County and the cities of Capitola, Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, and Watsonville — and mentoring by a current or retired government leader. Supporters include Gail Pellerin, Santa Cruz County clerk and election official for 27 years before she stepped down in December 2020, Dana McRae, who spent 22 years as Santa Cruz County Counsel before retiring and Greg Larson, former Los Gatos city manager and now interim city manager in Cupertino. “We have set an ambitious goal of raising an endowment of $100,000,” Croce said. “This would support the selection of two Fellows annually.” So far, $23,000 has been raised. Martin Bernal, who spent 11 years as Santa Cruz city manager, asked for contributions at his retirement gathering. Croce and Pellerin spoke to the Capitola City Council Wednesday night, giving an update and thanking the city for its $10,000 contribution. “Fellows Program” page 12
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NOVEMBER 2021
Aptos Real Estate Update
Ruth Bates 831.359.2212
ruthbates1@gmail.com CalBRE#01799929
Thankful. Grateful. Yes, it is that ‘time of year’, but/and, truly I live in Aptos paradise… the air, the beach, the forest, the restaurants, the shopping, the coffee…. nuff said. SANTA CRUZ COUNTY STATS (Zillow) APTOS (95003): $1,313,691 – Typical home value now vs. $1,026,683 Typical home value one year ago (28% increase in one year!), and +12% expected in 2022. EAST SC/LIVE OAK (95062) - $1,269,791 Typical home value now vs. $991,145 typical value one year ago (28% increase in year!), and +13% expected in 2022. WEST SC (95060) - $1,290,971 Typical home value now vs. $1,012,941 typical value one year ago (28% increase in year!), and +8% expected in 2022. I think Zillow is low on West Santa Cruz growth next year as it is the hottest spot in the County. APTOS SALES (past 30 days) 29 homes sold. AVG Sales Price - $1,505,895! Median Sales Price - $1,430,000, AVG Days on Market = 12! (that’s just long enough to List, have one weekend Open House, take multiple offers, counter, and accept offer – ba-da-bing!). High sale was 192 Zanzibar which sold for $2,700,000 on list price of $2,500,000. Low sale was 204 Forest, 1 bed, 1 bath, 554 Sq. Ft. sold for $704,500. 5 homes sold over $2M, 15 sold over $1M, and 9 sold below $1M. APTOS ACTIVE LISTINGS No inventory! There are only 21 Active Listings as of 11/06/21; 4 of those are over $3M, 3 are over $2M, 11 are from $1-2M, and 3 are <$1M. The high is 638 Beach drive, listed for $8,999,900 and the low is 812 Cathedral listed for $669,000. US HOUSING PRICES The median home sales price across the US was $374,900 in Q2-2021. That is a 16.2% increase from a year ago ($322,600), so housing prices are up significantly everywhere. AVG home prices (per Zillow) by state: AL-$170K, AK-$301K, AZ-$356K, CA-$684K, CO-$490K,CN-318k, DE-$308K, DC-$692K, FL-$297K,GE-$246K, HI-$731K, ID-$403K, IL-$233K, IN-186K, IO-$166K, KS-$177K, KY-$169K, LA-$188K, ME-$306K, MD-$366K, MA-$518K, MI-$208K, MN-302K, MS-302K, MO-$194K, MT-$360K, NB-$206K, NV$368K, NH-$366K, NJ-$408K, NM-$249K, NY-$372K, NC-$248K, ND-$247K, OH$182K, OK-$151K, OR-$448K, PN-$235K, RI-$373K, SC-$225K, SD-$243K, TN-$231K, TX-$247K, UT-$465K, VM-$300K, VG-$328K, WV-$118K, WI-$231K, WY-$274K. Santa Cruz County AVG is almost double the State AVG at $1.2-1.3M. There is definitely “value” here in Santa Cruz County. ——— My favorite 4-letter word is “SOLD”! Call, email, text anytime and Get Results with Ruth!
COMMUNITY NEWS
Girl Power
Girl Scouts Aid Sheltered Animals in Tough Times
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By Carrie Mulcaire
ocal Girl Scout Service Unit 150 ‘Surf City’ / Girl Scout Troop #15016 took several trips to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter this past year. Their purpose was to tour the shelter, be educated on animal care needs and the adoption process, and eventually donate items to the shelter’s wish list as part of the Girl Scout’s community service responsibility. This past year, the animal shelter has been especially busy due to two disasters hitting our county — COVID-19 and the CZU Lightning Complex Fire. While the shelter processed an extraordinary number of adoptions at the start of the shutdown, there was also unprecedented demand for finding homes for animals due to the CZU fire that ravaged our county in the summer of 2020. During August 2020, the shelter was either hosting or arranging foster care homes for nearly 5,000 animals — the number typically placed in a normal year! And they did all of this work despite cutbacks in their funding as a result of the pandemic’s impact on local public coffers. With this in mind, the troop members
“Fellows Program” from page 11 The program will select Cabrillo College students with preference to those who are the first in their family to attend college and pursue a major consistent with a career in local government service. When might the program begin? “Next fall semester if we raised the money,” Croce said. “I’m optimistic.” n •••
Carrie Mulcaire is troop leader for Girl Scout Troop #15016. were motivated to do their part in helping the animal shelter care for these little ones. They reviewed the shelter’s wish list — such as used blankets, new or gently used animal toys, pet food, etc. These items provide for a more comfortable stay while the animals are at the shelter or in a new home! The girls cleaned out their closets (or their parents’ garages!) and identified additional items to pick up at the local pet store. In total, these 10- and 11-year-old girls were able to fill up five bags of needed care items including pet food for the free pantry, pet toys, kongs (and peanut butter!), gently used collars, an animal heating pad, pet litter, Amazon gift cards, and more.
The girls met up on a warm Tuesday afternoon, masked up, and delivered these items in person to the shelter. As a special treat, they were able to visit with a new batch of kittens including petting one of their favorites of the new arrivals. The smiling faces with ‘ohs’ and ‘ahs’ revealed their enjoyment. If they had their way, they would bring home as many pets as their parents would allow. Now, these girl troop members are in the planning stages for their next community service project for the year! They are eager to set goals and work toward them to have a meaningful impact in their community. The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter continues to rely on various volunteer groups that donate their time and goods, and also open their wallets. To donate funds or items on the wish list, shop their benefit shop, or provide a legacy gift, visit the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s donation page: https:// www.scanimalshelter.org/donate. n
How To Give The Cabrillo College Foundation will accept contributions to the Local Government Fellows Program. You may contribute in the following ways: • CHECK: Send a check payable to the Cabrillo College Foundation. Enter Local Government Fellows Scholarship in the memo section. Cabrillo College Foundation 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003
• CREDIT CARD: Call the Cabrillo Foundation office at 831-479-6338 to donate with your credit card • ONLINE: https://foundation.cabrillo. edu/donate/ Enter Local Government Fellows Scholarship in the Special Instructions or Notes section • DONOR-ADVISED FUND: Initiate gift to Cabrillo College Foundation for the Local Government Fellows Scholarship
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COMMUNITY NEWS
In the Military? Know Your Rights D uring Veterans and Military Families Month, California Attorney General Rob Bonta wants active duty service members stationed in California to know about important consumer protections. “State and federal law provides military families in California with critical protections, and my office is committed to ensuring these protections for those who
dedicate their lives to serving our nation,” he said. “It is my hope that together, in a joint effort with military leadership, we can advance legal rights and protections for our military community.” Know Your Rights s an active duty service member stationed in California, you have important consumer protections under California law. If you believe your rights have been violated, ask the nearest military legal assistance office for help. For contact information, ask your unit or use the U.S. Armed Forces Legal Services Locator. It is against the law for businesses and government agencies to discriminate against you, threaten your civilian job, or charge you more because of your military status. It’s also illegal for any business to deny you service because you are wearing your military uniform. The Attorney General’s Office works with federal, state, and local partners to protect the rights of service members in California. If your rights have been violated you can file a report with the Attorney General’s Office at https://oag.ca.gov/
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contact/consumer-complaint-againstbusiness-or-company Buying or Leasing a Car or Motorcycle vehicle is one of the most expensive purchases you will make. Take a tactical pause, bring a battle buddy, and do your research — there is no automatic right to return a vehicle if you later change your mind. • Car dealers in California must be licensed: Avoid dealers that are buying and selling vehicles without a dealer’s license, proper permits, or an established place of business. • Be skeptical of so-called “military friendly” dealers: Scammers often do this to get you to let down your guard. If an auto dealer offers you a discount or kickback for bringing in potential customers, don’t do it — it is against the law. Be wary of anyone that offers to give you a ride to a dealer. • Research the car and its cost: Some dealers try to overcharge service members, offer unfavorable terms, or add on expensive optional products, like service contracts or Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP) insurance.
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Don’t act on impulse or pressure. Research the price and check out the car carefully, including getting a used vehicle history report and taking the car to an independent mechanic. • Get a license and insurance: California — and most installations — require you to have a driver’s license (not just a learner’s permit) and auto insurance in order to register or drive your car, or even to store it on base. Don’t drive without a license or insurance, and shop around for insurance from a legitimate insurance company to get the best deal. “Military Services” page 23
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his holiday sesson, many of us are looking forward to visiting family and friends. Visiting older family members may give us a chance to check in on them and make sure they’re doing well and continuing to live in good health. One concerning change you might notice is increased memory loss. You may be wondering if it is a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease, a fatal brain disease that causes a decline in memory, thinking and reasoning skills, or another form of dementia. To help you understand what to look for, the Alzheimer’s Association has created a list of the 10 signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s: 1) Memory loss that disrupts daily life. The most common sign is forgetting recently learned information. This can include forgetting important dates or events, asking the same questions over and over, and increasingly needing to
rely on memory aids or family members for things they used to handle on their own. 2) Challenges in planning or solving problems. Some people living with dementia may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. They may have trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills. 3) Difficulty completing daily tasks. People with Alzheimer’s often find it hard to complete daily tasks. Sometimes they may have trouble driving to a familiar location, organizing a grocery list or remembering the rules of a favorite game. 4) Confusion with time or place. People living with Alzheimer’s can lose track of dates, seasons and the passage of time. “Memory Loss” page 24
COMMUNITY NEWS
Vets Village Planned in Ben Lomond
Donations in November will be Matched up to $75,000
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eterans are leading the charge to buy the former Jaye’s Timberlane Resort in Ben Lomond to provide permanent supportive housing for local veterans. The Santa Cruz County Veterans Memorial Building Board of Trustees (Vets Hall) teamed up with Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, which is providing low-interest financing in conjunction with Santa Cruz County Bank. The offer was accepted; terms were not released and the sale has yet to close. Jaye’s has been owned for years by Vimal and Amita Patel, and the property was listed for $3,995,000 in January, with a price drop in August to $3,499,000. The last sale price was $225,500 in 1994. This “Veterans Village,” a first for Santa Cruz County, is designed to provide permanent affordable housing for veterans and their families, with on-site support services, amenities, outdoor recreation, and a supportive community of peers. In 2019, a count of people who are homeless in Santa Cruz County found
2,167 individuals, 151 being veterans with 85 percent “unsheltered.” The property on Highway 9 in Ben Lomond has a home with four bedrooms, three bathrooms and office and 10 cabins with their own kitchens, bedrooms, and bathrooms surrounded by redwood forest on nearly six acres. The property is expected to be able to house 16 veterans and their families initially with the Vets Hall planning to develop a second phase to bring the total capacity to 40 veterans.
Community Foundation Santa Cruz County launched the Veterans Village Fund with a $75,000 matching grant. All donations in November up to $75,000 will be matched by the Community Foundation in honor of veterans and their service. Donations can be made at: www. cfscc.org/vetsvillage “Our veterans cannot afford to live in Santa Cruz and many struggle to get by on their current benefits. As we see more veterans come home from
Afghanistan in need of support and community, the time is now to develop a solution for permanent supportive housing for our Santa Cruz County veterans,” said Chris Cottingham, executive director of the Vets Hall. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Santa Cruz County Veterans Memorial Building in downtown Santa Cruz hosted a 24/7 emergency shelter for 16 months through their Community Aid Resource Effort program, funded in part by a $20,000 grant from the Community Foundation. Cottingham discovered 179 veterans currently in Santa Cruz County who are eligible for supportive housing funds; many of whom are in poor temporary living situations or homeless. “This project is led by veterans for veterans,” said Cottingham. “And the village atmosphere will support community as well as self-sufficiency.” “Vets Village” page 20
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2021 / 17
this season, don’t forget to
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MEET OUR DOCTORS! Dr. Nichole Brooks was born and raised in Sonoma County, California. She received her bachelor’s degree from University of California Santa Cruz in 1999. After her bachelor’s degree she worked as a senior keeper for an African Wildlife Preserve called Safari West in Sonoma County. Dr. Brooks then pursued advanced training at St. George’s University, West Indies where she completed her doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Brooks completed her clinical year at North Carolina State University. Dr. Brooks loves being a general practitioner and enjoys the excitement of surgery and challenging medical cases. Dr. Brooks focuses on preventative care, surgery, and medical treatment of a variety of diseases. Dr. Brooks enjoys the ocean, hiking, wildlife and spending time with her family. Dr. Nichole Brooks, DVM. She has been with us for a few months now and is fitting in like a dream! Dr. Brooks works Tuesday through Friday, and is currently accepting new patients.
1980 41st Avenue, Capitola, CA 95010 831.222.5520 18 / November 15th 2021 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
COMMUNITY NEWS
Monte Vista’s Bella Primavera Signs with University of South Carolina
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By Jondi Gumz
ella Primavera, 17, of Corralitos, an equestrian ranked in the top three in California, signed a letter of intent on Nov. 10 with the University of South Carolina Gamecocks Division I equestrian team. “Yes, it is far away,” she told Aptos Times, explaining that she made her decision after a visit to the university. “I really fell in love with the coaches, the facility , the surroundings and the college life.” She plans to major in business economics. The signing took place at Monte Vista Christian School where she has competed for Belmont Stables/Monte Vista Christian School for the past 6 years. For Bella, 2021 has been an especially good year. In the past 30 days, she won first place in the Northern California Championship and first place in the Southern California Championship. At the National Championship in Lexington, Kentucky, she placed in the upper third of the field. Her passion started at a young age when her father noticed she was often gazing out the window admiring the horses. “Dad put me on a pony at the fair,” she said. Riding lessons followed. Her first trail ride came when she was 7. Two years later, she started competing. At Belmont Stables, her coach is Kathy Belmont. At Monte Vista Christian School,
she rides to fulfill her physical education requirement. “I ride twice a day,” she said. “It’s better than running a mile.” Her favorite horse: Bentley, whose official name is Carrico Sun, an 8-year-old Westphalian gelding imported from the Netherlands. “He’s pretty much made my career,” she said. Such horses are known to be athletically talented along with rideabilit. They are famous for dressage and show jumping at the Olympics, with top horses commanding a sale price of up to $80,000. “He has a really good brain,” Bella said of Bentley. “We have a really good bond. He thinks he’s a person and he’s always up for a good challenge.” Said her proud dad, Cam Primavera, “It is a beautiful sport.” n
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2021 / 19
COMMUNITY NEWS
Presented by Aromas Hills Artisans An outdoor event at Aromas Sports Park, 300 Aromas Rd. Sunday, November 21st–10am to 3pm A wonderful variety of art work and handcrafted gifts. hands-on workshops, live music and tasty refreshments. Raffle drawing. Rain cancels event.
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Armstrong Appointed CalFire CZU Unit Chief C
hief Nate Armstrong is the new Cal San Mateo County Fire Department, Santa Fire San Mateo-Santa Cruz Unit Cruz County Fire Department, Coastside CZU chief, succeeding Chief Ian Fire Protection District and the Pajaro Larkin who retired after 33 years of service. Valley Fire Protection District. Armstrong’s appointment, effective Armstrong’s face may be familiar from Nov. 6, was made by Cal Fire Director briefings during the August 2020 lightning Thom Porter. wildfires, which burned 86,500 acres and Armstrong leads the unit’s 280+ destroyed more than 900 homes, most of permanent and seasonal staff them in Santa Cruz County. from CZU headquarters in He’s also familiar with the Felton across 16 fire stations, safety issues raised by people one Department of Corrections who live on Aptos Creek Road, and Rehabilitation Conserthe busy two-lane route to the vation Camp in San Lorenzo heavily forested Nisene Marks Valley, one State DemonState Park. stration Forest in Soquel and Before this appointment, 110 volunteers across 8 addiArmstrong was the unit’s Nate Armstrong tional fire stations serving deputy chief of operations. residents in San Mateo and Santa Cruz He has 22 years of experience in Cal Fire counties. operations, paramedic services, training, As the CZU unit chief, Chief Arm- emergency command centers, adminstrong also serves as fire chief through Cal istration, and state Incident Command Fire’s cooperative agreements system for Teams. n
Kaiser Gives $200,000 to New Mental Health Center in Watsonville
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aiser Permanente is granting $200,000 toward a new behavioral center in Watsonville with substance abuse treatment and other outpatient programs. “Kaiser Permanente is making a significant investment in our community’s future,” said Monica Martinez, CEO of Encompass Community Services, a nonprofit that operates Sí Se Puede in Watsonville, a 23-bed program for men who speak Spanish and more than a dozen more behavioral health programs. “We are incredibly grateful.” Kaiser Permanent’s grant to
“Vets Village” from page 17
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He said the project has been nearly two years in planning and as it becomes a reality, “it will be a community effort, using local services, vendors, and workers.” “It takes a village to support the Vets Village,” said Susan True, Community Foundation CEO. “Purchasing this property makes a significant step towards ending homelessness for our veterans and we’re honored to work with the Vets Hall, Santa Cruz County Bank, and generous
Encompass is one of 10 awarded to nonprofits in Santa Cruz County totaling $1.87 million: • Housing Matters: $500,000 to help fund 120 studio apartments for chronically homeless individuals who will have on-site access to 24/7 support services. “Mental Health” page 26
community members to help solve local challenges together.” n Instrumental support on this project came from Veterans Village Committee members and supporters: Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, United Veterans Coalitions, and Support Services for Veteran Families; Santa Cruz Free Guide; Robert Ratner with the Housing for Health Division of Santa Cruz County; Front Street Paget Center; and Supervisor Manu Koenig, real estate agent Paul Zech, Jack Tracey, Lynda Francis, David Pedley, Stoney Brooks, and Keith Collins. https://www.veteranshall.org/about/
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2021 / 21
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Paradise Fire Lesson Learned A new video, “A High and Awful Price: Lessons Learned from the Camp Fire,” produced by a survivor of the fire, Christopher Allan Smith, to help civilians, responders and government agencies. The first lesson: Accept the disasters will happen — and prepare. One more: One way in, one way out, makes people vulnerable. Two-lane roads can be converted into two lanes to exit in a disaster. Another: Consider the absolute worst case scenario — and make it 10 times bigger and 10 times faster. Usual communications — internet, landlines
“Military Services” from page 15 • Watch out for scammers that sell cars without providing a legitimate car title: Make sure to get the car’s title transferred to you as part of the purchase. If you have any difficulty getting the title, get help immediately. • Be on the lookout for dealers that use “yo-yo” financing tactics: If a dealer calls you to claim that there was something wrong and asks you to come back to the dealership to negotiate a new deal or monthly payment, it’s a red flag. Under the law, you do not have to sign new paperwork or pay more than what was originally agreed upon. You have the right to return the car to the dealer and get a full refund if you are asked to renegotiate the terms of your agreement – including the immediate return of any trade-in vehicle. • If a dealer, lender, or insurance company violates your rights: Contact the nearest military legal assistance office and file a report with the Attorney General’s Office. If you are ripped off by a car dealer that declares bankruptcy or goes out of business, you can also file a claim with the Consumer Motor Vehicle Recovery Corporation at http://www.cmvrc. org/ Residents of Another State f you are a resident of another state and stationed in California on active duty: • You may use a valid out-of-state driver’s license and drive a car with valid license plates from your home state or territory. Learn more at the DMV’s veterans and active duty military page. • You may vote in your home state. Learn more at the Federal Voting Assistance Program’s military voters page. • Your spouse can work in California without paying California taxes on
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and cell towers — are likely to be out of service. What are the alternatives? Prepare to help yourself because first responders will likely be overwhelmed. Afterward, do not overlook survivor guilt because it is real. Advice to other similar communities starts at minute 42:25. To watch the video, visit https://tinyurl. com/high-awful-price (Full URL: https://www.k6rmw.net/FOLDERS/ CAMPFIRE/A%20High%20and%20Awful%20 Price_%20Lessons%20Learned%20From%20the%20 Camp%20Fire.mp4)
their income by claiming an exemption from withholding. Learn more at the Employee Development Department’s Military Spouses Residency Relief Act FAQs page. • Military spouses who have a professional license from another state may be eligible for expedited or special licensure. For information, go to the Department of Consumer Affairs’ military expedited licensure page. Debt on Mortgages and Auto Loans hile you’re on active duty, if you fall behind on your mortgage or auto loan, the lender cannot foreclose or repossess unless it gets a court order. The court can also defer payments and provide other relief. If you are at risk of falling behind on a mortgage or other loan, remember you have options. Talk with your command financial counselor to get advice and assistance, which may include access to emergency loans from Army Emergency Relief, the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, the Air Force Aid Society, or Coast Guard Mutual Assistance. If you are sued, or threatened with foreclosure or repossession, contact the nearest military legal assistance office immediately. For auto loans or leases, California and federal law allows you to: • Ask a court to defer payments on a car loan or lease while you are on active duty; and • Terminate an auto lease if you receive Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders to an Outside Continental U.S. duty station, or if you are deployed for 180 days or longer. If you get behind on your car payments, reach out to your command financial counselor for assistance. Debt Collection nethical debt collectors often try to illegally threaten service members into making payments. In California, it’s illegal for a creditor or other debt collector to:
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• Contact your chain of command; • Threaten to court martial you or take away your security clearance; • Falsely claim to be a lawyer, a member of the armed forces, or a government official; • Harass, annoy, or abuse you or others, including calling other people without your permission to tell them you owe a debt; or • Keep calling you after you ask them not to. For assistance asserting your rights, go to the nearest military legal assistance office and file a report with the Attorney General’s Office. Rental Housing ecurity Deposits: Active duty service members can only be charged a security deposit of up to one month’s rent for an unfurnished rental and two months’ rent for a furnished rental. Landlords have to offer you a pre move-out inspection, and they must return your security deposit, with an itemized statement of deductions, within 21 days after you move out. If a landlord fails to return your security deposit you can sue them in small claims court. If you can’t make it to court because you have PCS’d out of state, a friend or representative can go to court on your behalf. If a landlord violates these rights, get help from the nearest military legal assistance office. victions: If your landlord tries to evict you while you’re on active duty, you can ask the court to put the eviction on hold or provide other forms of relief. If you are behind on your rent, or at risk of eviction, seek help from the nearest military legal assistance office, your housing office, or your command financial counselor. nding a Lease: If you sign a lease and then get orders for a PCS or for
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a deployment of at least 90 days, you may end your lease early by notifying your landlord in writing. A military legal assistance office can help deal with lease termination issues. Storage f you need to store your vehicle or belongings, check with your unit or installation — they may offer free or lowcost storage options. If you have stored your belongings with a private business and you are at risk of falling behind on your payments, get help and advice from your command financial counselor. Under the law, storage companies cannot sell your items without a court order. Some storage companies try to get you to give up, or “waive,” this right when you sign your storage contract. Even if you waived those rights, you may still have rights under California law. If a storage company threatens to sell your property, contact the nearest military legal assistance office for help. Court Cases f you get sued, don’t ignore it! Contact the nearest military legal assistance office for help right away. Under the federal Servicemembers Civil Relief Act and California law, you may ask a court to: • Postpone a lawsuit filed against you; • Reopen a default judgment entered against you while you were on active duty; or • Grant other relief. Bonta announced a two-page “know your rights” tips sheet –with the information above — that will be made available to military personnel and installations across the state. The tip sheet was developed in response to requests from military financial counselors during a roundtable discussion at Naval Base San Diego earlier this year. n
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Who Is Drawing New Assembly District Lines?
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By Jondi Gumz
edistricting based on population in the 2020 census will determine the distribution of political power for the next decade. State Assembly districts, State Senate districts, Congressional districts, county supervisorial districts are all affected. Each district for every level of government is supposed to have a similar number of voters for fair representation. Santa Cruz County is currently split into two Assembly districts, North County and South County. One draft map posted by the California Redistricting Commission, Santa Cruz County was split into three Assembly districts, MontCoast, GatosBank, and BenSal. On Nov. 10, the draft map was revised, with Scotts Valley and San Lorenzo Valley in GatosCruz, Watsonville in Benito and Aptos in MontCoast – still split three ways. To see draft maps and make comments, go to https://www.wedrawthelinesca. org/map_viewer ••• Timeline n Sept. 22, the California Supreme Court directed the Commission to release first preliminary statewide maps no later than Nov. 15 and approve and certify final statewide maps to the Secretary of State by no later than Dec. 27. The city of Scotts Valley is currently split into two county supervisorial districts.
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Supervisor Zach Friend has proposed to unify the voters of Scotts Valley into one supervisor’s district. To view proposals see http:// santacruzcounty.us/Redistricting2021/ MappingData/PreliminaryFinalMapsforRedistricting.aspx County supervisors will discuss the options during the regular board meeting at 10:45 a.m. Tuesday. A Santa Cruz County resident, Vincent Barabba of Capitola, who served twice as head of the Census Bureau, used to be on the commission. His term ended in 2020.
••• Who is drawing the lines now? Isra Ahmad, San Jose, senior research evaluation specialist with Santa Clara County’s Division of Equity and Social Justice. Linda Akutagawa, Huntington Beach, president and CEO of Leadership Education for Asian Pacifics Jane Andersen, Berkeley, registered civil and structural engineer in California since 1988 Alicia Fernandez, Clarksburg, senior special agent supervising a team of
“Memory Loss” from page 16 They may have trouble understanding something if it is not happening immediately. Sometimes they may forget where they are or how they got there. 5) Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships. For some people, having vision problems is a sign of Alzheimer’s. This may lead to difficulty with balance or trouble reading. They may also have problems judging distance and determining color or contrast, causing issues with driving. 6) New problems with words or speaking. People living with Alzheimer’s may have trouble following or joining a conversation. They may stop in the middle of a conversation and have no idea how to continue or they may repeat themselves. They may struggle with vocabulary, have trouble naming a familiar object or use the wrong name (e.g., calling a “watch” a “hand-clock”). 7) Misplacing things and losing the ability to replace steps. 24 / November 15th 2021 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
A person living with Alzheimer’s disease may put things in unusual places. They may lose things and be unable to go back over their steps to find them again. He or she may accuse others of stealing, especially as the disease progresses. 8) Decreased or poor judgment. Individuals may experience changes in judgment or decision-making. For example, they may use poor judgment when
special agents that conduct internal affairs investigations Neal Fornaciari, Tracy, researcher and manager at Sandia National Laboratories in Livermore for 27 years until retiring in 2017 J. Ray Kennedy, Morongo Valley, has worked in international electoral assistance since 1990 Antonio Le Mons, Studio City, chief operating officer at Skid Row Housing Trust Sara Sadhwani, La Canada Flintridge, assistant professor of politics at Pomona College specializing in American politics, racial and ethnic politics, and public policy. Patricia Sinay, Encinitas, founder of Community Investment Strategies, consulting firm connecting nonprofits, corporations, government agencies, and foundations’ passions to action Derric Taylor, Los Angeles, investigator with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Pedro Toledo, Petaluma, chief administrative officer of Petaluma Health Center Trena Turner, Stockton, executive director at Faith in the Valley Angela Vasquez, Los Angeles, policy director at The Children’s Partnership Russell Yee, Alameda, college and seiminary teacher; author of Worship on the Way (2012), exploring worship in Asian and Southeast Asian North American churches. n
dealing with money or pay less attention to grooming or keeping themselves clean. 9) Withdrawal from work or social activities. A person living with Alzheimer’s disease may experience changes in the ability to hold or follow a conversation. As a result, he or she may withdraw from hobbies, social activities or other engagements. They may have trouble keeping up with a favorite team or activity. 10) Changes in mood or personality. Individuals living with Alzheimer’s may experience mood and personality changes. They can become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful or anxious. They may be easily upset at home, with friends or when out of their comfort zone. n ••• If you notice any of these symptoms in your loved one this holiday season, don’t ignore them. Schedule an appointment with his/her doctor. With early detection, your family member can explore treatments that may provide some relief of symptoms and help him/her maintain a level of independence longer, as well as increase the chances of participating in dementia clinical drug trials. The Alzheimer’s Association is here to help. Call our 24/7 helpline at (800) 272-3900 or go to alz.org/norcal.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Independent Review of AHS Fatality Underway R esponding to the Aug. 31 fatal stabbing of an Aptos High School on campus with two students taken into custody, the Pajaro Valley Unified School District is “collaborating with an independent evaluator to get an unbiased assessment of what transpired,” according to a Nov. 8 announcement from the school district. Dr. Michelle Rodriguez, Pajaro Valley Unified Superintendent of Schools, said, “The independent review will provide a fresh perspective of other changes that must take place to ensure students and staff continue to feel and be safe while they learn and work in every PVUSD facility.” The grieving family of the young Michelle Rodriguez man who was killed has not released information, and the students in custody are juveniles, which means their names are confidential and will not be released.
Rodriguez pointed out that new safety measures such as the STOPit App and the Remind system were put in place prior to the start of the 2021-2022 school year. STOPit is an easy and anonymous way to report to administrators potentially harmful, unsafe or inappropriate behaviors via text, images or video. Reporting such behaviors has an immediate positive impact in school culture, according to the superintendent. The Remind App supports immediate regular or emergency messaging to and from our students, families and staff. More than 700 families attended the first session around the first family night for Restorative Start — an initiative providing opportunities for students to increase their sense of identity and belonging — launched when the school year began in mid-August. This is part of the district’s commitment to the “Whole Child, Whole Family, and Whole Community” approach to learning.
On Nov. 8, the second Restorative Start Family Night lessons were released. After the fatality, the district conducted an internal review and made various safety changes. “Nevertheless, our commitment to continue to improve remains,” Rodriguez said. To support students’ socio-emotional wellbeing, the district increased support staff -- 13 nurses, 14 mental health clinicians, 18 social emotional counselors, and 19 psychologists are available as resources. PVUSD increased the number of campus supervisors at the three comprehensive high schools, Aptos High, Pajaro
Valley High and Watsonville High. These supervisors will receive training by the Watsonville Police Department that centers on setting positive connections between them and the students they serve. Some high schools in the district have adopted the Student Success Program from the probation department; the team is composed of four — that can include a site administrator, counselor and a teacher — who works with students who may have behavioral issues interfering with reaching their academic goals. “Aptos High Fatality” page 27
Thanksgiving
Credit Union’s ‘Return the Favor’ a Success for 12 Nonprofits
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Donations Accepted Through Nov. 30
anta Cruz Community Credit Union announces that its $75,000 donationmatch goal for the “Return the Favor” giving campaign was reached in six weeks. “Your donations have equaled a little over $150,000 for essential programs our 12 participating nonprofit organizations provide to those most vulnerable in our community,” said Katie Fairbairn, VP of communications & organizational development at Santa Cruz Community Credit Union. “To meet our goal in only six weeks is a real credit to so many giving people in our community, and we’re so grateful for such incredible support.” In September, the credit union launched the campaign with $50,000 to match donations to 12 selected nonprofits. Once those funds were used, the credit union’s Board of Directors approved an additional $25,000 for the match—and that money was used within a week. But the campaign is not over yet. “While the matching funds have been used, we are still accepting donations through Nov. 30,” said Fairbairn. The 12 selected nonprofits aligned
with the mission of providing economic justice for all. They are: • Community Action Board • Community Bridges • Diversity Center • El Pájaro Community Development Corp. • Grey Bears • Housing Matters • Homeless Garden Project • Pajaro Valley Loaves and Fishes • Pajaro Valley Shelter Services • Santa Cruz County Volunteer Center • Second Harvest Food Bank • Valley Churches United “We’d like to encourage everyone to join us in donating to one of these participating nonprofit organizations from now through Nov. 30,” said Beth Carr, president/CEO of Santa Cruz Community Credit Union. “Our goal is to return the favor so each organization can continue to thrive and provide much-needed support to our community.” Donate online at https://scccu.org/ support-it/return-the-favor, or stop by a Santa Cruz Community Credit Union branch in Watsonville, Soquel or Santa Cruz. n
ACROSS
1. “If all ____ fails...” 5. *Male Thanksgiving bird 8. Yoko’s last name 11. Indian restaurant bread 12. Carhop’s carrier 13. *”Kiss the Cook” garment 15. Homer’s “The Odyssey”, e.g. 16. *Grandpa or Grandma, often 17. Moolah or dough 18. *Pilgrim’s colony 20. Allah’s cleric 21. Arranges into categories
22. Chance’s genre 23. *”Plains, Trains and Automobiles” star 26. Woven containers 30. Kimono sash 31. Aristotle’s school 34. Part of ideal 35. H urricane feature, pl. 37. Comedian Schumer 38. Teen worry 39. Side of a ruler 40. Left over 42. *When will the guests be here?, acr. 43. Rejuvenate 45. Expression of agreement (2 words) 47. *What Turkey Trot participants did 48. Outdoor entertainment area 50. Messy substances
7. *Pumpkin pie at the first Thanksgiving, e.g. 8. Sea World’s performer 9. “Cheers” regular 10. Top seed 12. Like a rosebush 13. Spy name 14. *Kind of squash 19. Toils 22. Truck brand motto: “Guts. Glory. ____” 23. Lawn trimmer 24. Toe the line 25. Designs on lemur’s DOWN tail Compass dir. 26. Purchases Arctic native 27. #39 Across, pl. Go yachting 28. T in Ferrari TR Become enclosed in a 29. Thai restaurant cyst chicken staple Freshwater fish 32. Elder’s support Hop-drying kilns 33. Flightless bird
52. *It makes Thanksgiving wishes come true? 55. Half of diameter, pl. 56. Flu symptom 57. Accompanies relief 59. Leaves out 60. More than a talker? 61. Isaac’s firstborn 62. Skin cyst 63. “____ my party, and I’ll cry if I want too...” 64. Confederate or Union, e.g. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
36. *Thanksgiving football game host city since 1934 38. Impromptu 40. Big coffee holder 41. Choice word 44. Desert mirage 46. Makes less tight 48. Lace loop 49. “Angela’s _____,” memoir 50. *Raiders vs. Cowboys, e.g. 51. Scandinavian war god 52. Dry riverbed 53. Not final or absolute 54. Exclamation of surprise, archaic 55. Propel your boat! 58. Color wheel feature © Statepoint Media
Answers on 31 »
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Stars Falling Like Rain, Gratitude & Light in the Darkness & More
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Esoteric Astrology • Mid-November 2021 • By Risa D’Angeles
he following two weeks are busy, interesting, both cosmic and earthly. Stars will fall like rain (Leonid meteor showers, peaking Wednesday, November 17); the moon will be full yet partially eclipsed and turn maroon (Friday, November 19); the Sun leaves Scorpio and enters Sagittarius (Sunday, November 21); it’s Thanksgiving (Thursday, November 25) and Hanukkah and Advent begin (Sunday, November 28). So many choices, so many events to celebrate. And on Monday, November 22, we remember John F. Kennedy’s 1963 assassination. Turkey, corn (or maize), pumpkins and cranberry sauce represent the first Thanksgiving foods. In 1988, a Thanksgiving ceremony took place at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine (NYC). More than four thousand people gathered on Thanksgiving night. Invited were Native American tribes from all over the country and descendants of ancestors who had migrated to the New World. The ceremony was a public acknowledgment of the ‘first people’s role in the first thanksgiving that occurring 355 years ago’. This year’s Thanksgiving Sun & Mercury are Sagittarius (love of food and music) with Leo Moon. Leo asks us to offer praise and recognition to all ARIES
A shift is occurring, a threshold almost crossed, new realities and new responsibilities appear along with new creative work. You emerge from your foundations and face the Sun, hidden behind Scorpio waters. Although not a Scorpio you and the sign of discipleship share the influence of Mars and Mercury. So you are in the same family. Both have work to do that’s transformative. The key is communication. Use it for Goodwill, for knowledge, to dispense intelligence. Use it to uplift. TAURUS
There seems to be no rest and each day provides new challenges. Sometimes your back hurts, sometimes your head, knees, ankles. Each is ruled by a sign. Don’t let your heart hurt though, even if things seem somewhat dismal and dreary – especially concern weather or finances. Help arrives in the form of unusual events especially as you continue your intentions for assisting all aspects and endeavors of humanity. We join you in morning meditation. GEMINI
The energies impel you to share information, offer more praise of others and identify your creativity. It seems that you bridge (a Rainbow Bridge, the Antakarana, a bridge between form and Soul, the building of which is Gemini’s purpose) here and there in many and various ways, opening the minds of others to see a new light, a new day, a new path ahead. Although you may not understand how, you are blessed. We bless you. CANCER
How are your finances these days? Are you tending to resources for yourself and/or others? It’s most important that you focus time and energy upon your own needs so you can be strong in all ways for the times ahead. It may be your concerns have deepened for family and children. This will continue until your focus shifts toward how and what you create. You are very creative. Balance and harmony appear when you focus on your natural gifts.
those around us. As we do this, coupled with gratitude for all that we have, our Thanksgiving begins to be filled with unexpected blessings. What is Gratitude? A good question for our Season of Gratitude. Quote on Gratitude – from the Tibetan Teacher Djwal Khul (paraphrased). “Gratitude is a scientific and occult releasing agent. It is a service. Gratitude releases us from the past and directs us toward a future path- to the new culture and civilization and to the rising light of Aquarius, the Age of humanity, of friendship, freedom and equality. The Hierarchy lays great emphasis upon gratitude.” Hanukkah and Advent begin Sunday, November 28. Advent means “something’s coming.” Hanukkah is the Jewish Festival of Lights. Sunday night we light the first Advent candle (the color is violet) and the first Hanukkah candle (eight candles for eight nights). This night (Sunday) begins continuous nights of candle lighting through Christmas – lighting up the darkness for humanity, offering hope and promise to humanity in this Kali Yuga time. A few questions to ponder: What will we each bring to the Thanksgiving table? What foods? What beauty? What gratitudes? What blessings?
LEO
SAGITTARIUS
Mars is in Scorpio in your communication house. You may feel a bit impatient, angry or aggressive. It’s important to be in the sun each day, morning and evening. It’s important to plant a winter garden with fall and winter greens. Each time you create, a new identity actually emerges through your creations. You may feel dramatic, exaggerated, and embellished, desire a more glamorous and stylish approach while also hiding away. We’ll still see you.
Communication is and will be the theme this month and next. For you, communication along with your mind and thoughts has greatly expanded. Your spiritual world has grown and expanded. Is there a wound taking its time to heal? What are your present aspirations? Sometimes hopes are nebulous and uncertain. Which is better than harsh, fearful, piercing and sharp thoughts. What is hope for you? Family is most important. Travel in spring.
VIRGO
CAPRICORN
Sharing with loved ones is most important at this time. Venus is in your house of thinking, talking, communicating. Help others understand you better by speaking with precision and clarity. Venus rules concrete science and knowledge. It also brings all that is separate together. Are you experiencing one or more of the Scorpio/ Mars tests? Observe daily challenges. Seek out true intentions. Use communication for goodness.
Structure your money in careful ways in the coming month(s). Purchase essentials. Tend to debts immediately, paying more than minimum on credit cards. Consider purchasing silver to back your dollars, keeping your money safe. A good source for coins is the Money Changer (the-moneychanger.com/). They are intelligent, reliable, trustworthy and a source of invaluable monetary information. The value of the dollar is changing.
LIBRA
AQUARIUS
Some Libras may be wondering about their relationship. Of what value is it, they are asking? Do I love enough, they wonder? Tie up all unresolved work situations. Tend to discrete money and finance issues from long ago. Release relationships not good or kind financially and work situations that are not respectful. A new world begins in the weeks to come and it continues to unfold the next two and a half years. Remember the e.e.cummings words – “be of love (a little) more careful than of everything.”
You may be seeking love, or if already in love, seeking a closer connection. Remember that making contact, true and kind and good, releases love. Can you make that type of contact? You’re also seeking new information for more balance and the Right Relations your heart longs for. Have the intention to love at all times. Use no harsh or critical words. Also always have the intention to understand. Aquarius often bypasses understanding and leaps into the Rain Cloud of Knowable Things.
SCORPIO
PISCES
For a while you become more hidden, mysterious and complex. Others understand you less and that’s good because you have important work to do, part of which is the deep inner work of self-identification. This happens yearly around this time when the Sun is in Scorpio. You dip into deep dark waters to renew yourself and emerge only when comfort calls. Your communication for the next year becomes even more potent. Some will understand this. Tell them you are Pluto searching for Persephone. •••
There will be daily increased work and responsibilities. You’ll summon your abilities to maintain health and strength in order to meet all needs and expectations. You also might need to catch up on studies and contacts with family put off since summer. Do you also need new shoes and a new bed? I heard you need a new car. Relationships have been restrictive, money’s been perplexing, and change has been ceaseless. Who listens to you? Visualize a warm pool outside your home. In a warm climate. Someday …
Risa D’Angeles • www.nightlightnews.org • risagoodwill@gmail.com 26 / November 15th 2021 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
“Mental Health” from page 20 • Health Improvement Partnership of Santa Cruz: $150,000 over two years to support safety net clinics responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. This is to ensure equitable testing, treatment, and provide COVID-19 vaccinations for low-income and undocumented residents. • Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County’s South County Family Health Initiative: $150,000 over two years to help 100 low-income families and young adults disproportionately affected by the pandemic access mental health services, federal food programs, and education. • Community Bridges’ Building Strong Foundations for Families: $150,000 to increase access to mental health and social services for the underrepresented Latinx community along with access to local, state and federal social services. • First 5 Santa Cruz County: $80,000 for Medi-Cal enrollment assistance to mothers and their newborns, linking them to services before they leave the hospital. • Salud Para La Gente: $150,000 to provide farmworkers and immigrants with preventive health care and COVID-19 outreach, education and vaccines. • Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County: $300,000 to provide food to families in need and help them sign up for CalFresh food aid. • United Way of Santa Cruz County: $100,000 toward an information and referral service that connects people to health and social services. • Dientes Community Dental Care: $85,000 to provide dental care for low-income and homeless people and their children. “We are proud to support organizations in Santa Cruz County that are focused on improving the health of the community,” said William MacLean, MD, physician in charge of the Kaiser Permanente Santa Cruz County. “We know the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increased need for mental health and other social services, and we want to ensure everyone has the access they need to stay healthy.” n
“We are proud to support organizations in Santa Cruz County that are focused on improving the health of the community.” — William MacLean, MD, physician in charge of the Kaiser Permanente Santa Cruz County
FEATURED COLUMNIST
2021 County Fair Apple Pie Winner Y es, Thanksgiving is approaching — and what will you make for your holiday table this year? Some people love pumpkin pie but if it’s not a favorite for your family, why not try this award-winning apple pie recipe from Janice Weaver of Santa Cruz? She won “best of show” at the 2021 Santa Cruz County Fair’s apple pie contest, organized by the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau. Fresh apples grown locally are in season at farmer’s markets — no longdistance shipping needed. To make this dessert extra-special, add a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream — something the kids can help with! By the way, South County was wellrepresented in the apple pie competition with Elijah Tomasini of Aromas first in the youth division and Rita Hewitt of Watsonville first in the adult division. ••• Pie Crust 21⁄2 C flour 1 t salt 1 T sugar
1 C unsalted butter ⁄2 C water Whisk dry ingredients together. Cut butter into flour in little pieces. Add cold water, and combine until holding together. Divide in half, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate at least one hour. Filling 4-5 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and sliced 1 T lemon juice 1 C sugar 1 tsp cinnamon 1 ⁄8 t salt 1 T cornstarch Roll out one half of dough and fit into 9-inch pie pan. Toss filling ingredients together and pour into shell. Roll out second half of dough for top of pie. Crimp it together, add vents, and bake at 400° for 40-45 minutes. n 1
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Janice Weaver
“Aptos High Fatality” from page 25 For the past few years, staff has participated in ALICE — Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter and Evacuate — training, a model for active shooter preparedness and response. This ensures staff learn skills to respond actively, swiftly and safely in threatening and unsafe incidents, including active shooting. For the last few years, the district has used “Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports,” a three-tiered framework to influence student outcomes through proactive and preventative support.
o you have a recipe that is a family favorite? Or maybe one from your childhood you would like to share? The Aptos Times will be publishing one recipe each issue from a community member. Feel free to add a little history to the recipe if you want (approximately 75 words). Every issue we will randomly choose a recipe to publish. Find your favorite and send it to cathe@cyber-times.com today!
Tier I includes sharing best practices with all students to promote success. Tier 2 is for students not experiencing success with universal measures and Tier 3 is for students to receive more intense and individualized support to improve behavioral and academic results. The superintendent is committed to successful, evidence-based and relevant academic programs to which all students have equitable access. She noted safety efforts are ongoing and can evolve as opportunities to improve come up. n
D I D YO U K N O W? We regularly speak to small and large groups about mid-county water issues such as groundwater, water reliability, sustainability, and conservation.
soquelcreekwater.org/speakers
Your Community Partner for Reliable Water
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2021 / 27
COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS STRIKE OUT HUNGER RETURNS TO BOARDWALK BOWL After a year’s hiatus due to the pandemic, the Boardwalk Bowl in Santa Cruz is once again hosting the Strike Out Hunger food drive through Jan. 2. Bowlers of all skill levels and ages can participate. They get to bowl for free by bringing a can of food for Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County to help feed local families. In 2019, Strike out Hunger provided 21,334 meals to local families in need. Participants who make a $100 cash donation to Second Harvest during Strike Out Hunger will receive 25 free bowling passes for use during future visits to the Boardwalk Bowl. Boardwalk Bowl league players who bring in 3 cans of unexpired food during league play get 3 bowling passes for future use. “We are very proud to again offer Strike Out Hunger in support of Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County,” said Willie King, director of Boardwalk Bowl. “Strike Out Hunger helps feed local families in need while having fun.” Now in its 14th year, Strike Out Hunger received the Charity of the Year Award from the Bowling Proprietors Associations of Ameirca and is the official charity of the Northern California Bowling Centers. For information, visit https://boardwalkbowl.com/strike-outhunger Some restrictions apply. RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVES As the holidays approach and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns about a potential spike in flu cases this year, the American Red Cross is facing an ongoing emergency blood shortage. Donors are urged to give now to combat the lowest blood supply levels at this time of year in more than a decade. Ben Lomond Nov. 19, 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 9545 Lovecreek Road Scotts Valley Nov. 20, 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. — St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 5271 Scotts Valley Drive Santa Cruz Nov. 23, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 220 Elk Street Nov. 27, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Santa Cruz Live Oak Grange #503, 1900 17th Avenue Watsonville Nov. 26, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Community Health Trust of Pajaro Valley, 85 Nielson Street READING TUTORING RETURNS TO LIBRARIES 3-5 p.m., Wednesdays: Capitola / La Selva Public Libraries • Thursdays: Downtown Santa Cruz Public Library The Santa Cruz Public Libraries’ reading comprehension program, R.E.A.D. (Reach Every Amazing Detail) has returned. R.E.A.D. offers one-on-one reading comprehension instruction for students in grades 2 to 12 with 25-minute sessions with a California-credentialed teacher. Appointments are required. Call Telephone Information, 831-427-7713, to make an appointment. Holiday breaks will take place on Veterans Day, Nov. 11; Thanksgiving, Nov. 24 and 25; Winter break, Dec.13 to Jan. 25, resuming Jan. 26; and Spring break, April 5 & 6. SENIOR CENTER WITHOUT LIMITS This new program from Community Bridges brings
CABRILLO STAGE PRESENTS ‘CHARLEY’S AUNT’ Fridays-Sundays, Nov. 5 thru 21, Black Box Theater, Cabrillo College, Aptos Cabrillo College Theatre Arts’ fall production of “Charley’s Aunt” will take place on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays Watsonville Film Festival via their platform: https://niot. enrichment activities like yoga, art, music, tai chi, at 2 p.m. in the Black Box Theater. cooking, tech and support groups to seniors age 60 and eventive.org/schedule along with discussions. This wacky and hilarious farce, A Call to Action: Inspired by Not In Our Town Films will up in their homes at no cost. directed by the masterful Joseph To participate, you need an internet connection and a be a bilingual virtual program with simultaneous Spanish Ribeiro, features love, deception, interpretation 6:30 – 8 p.m. via Zoom on Wednesday, computer, tablet or smartphone. confusion, and a guy disguised as To participate, view the calendar at https://communitybridges. Nov. 17, moderated by Rabbi Paula Marcus. Panelists org/SCWOL/ and find a class. That day and time, click on the include: Isabella Bonner, Gloria Nieto, Dr. Faris Sabbah, an old lady, nutty as a Brazil nut! Seating is unassigned, first come first served. Tickets and Adam Spickler. Registration is required in advance link in the calendar to be connected. If you have a problem are $18.50 with a $2 discount for students, children and at https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/8478954 or at connecting, call Clara Munoz at (831) 458-3481. https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/8488103 for Spanish senior citizens, at https://cabrillovapa.universitytickets. com/w/event.aspx?SeriesID=1. You can also call the interpretation. MONARCH BUTTERFLY COUNT BEGINS box office: (831) 479-6154 All open library branches offer a United Against Hate Week Monarch butterflies are back in the eucalyptus grove Masks are required. book display and book lists for reading. The Book List for at Natural Bridges State Park in Santa Cruz, delighting Learn more at https://www.cabrillo.edu/vapa/2021-fallKids and Teens is at: https://www.santacruzpl.org/kids/lists/ visitors after a year when few — if any — were seen. charleys-aunt An estimated 3,000 butterflies are hanging out in the view/332 and the Book List for Adults is at: https://www. santacruzpl.org/lists/view/326. trees in the park, which is at the end of Swanton Boulevard. Visit ONGOING EVENTS LA SELVA BEACH LIBRARY ACTIVITIES Santa Cruz County posted an Ongoing Through Sunday December 12 The La Selva Beach public library is now open Tuesday thru update on Facebook about the Saturday (closed Sunday and Monday). MI CASA ES TU CASA AT PAJARO VALLEY ARTS Monarch’s return, which got more Tues-Thurs: 11-6 • Fri-Sat 12-5. Book drops open 24/7. than 1,200 shares. Mi Casa es Tu Casa is Pajaro Valley Arts’ annual exhibit Contact us by phone: 831.427.7713; text: 831.264.0647; “Amazingly beautiful” posted inspired by Día de Los Muertos/Day of the Dead, a traonline chat: https://www.santacruzpl.org/contact/?display=chat; ditional holiday in Mexico that remembers community one visitor. Another wrote that or send a question at https://www.santacruzpl.org/contact/ seeing the butterflies was on her “bucket list.” members and family who have passed away. Preschool Storytime: Tuesdays, 11 am – noon Yet another encouraged people to keep planting Altars/Ofrendas are built in homes, churches, schools, milkweed, as Monarchs enjoy nectar from the flowers and outside on the patio. Dress for the weather. cemeteries, and museums that honor and remember help pollinate the plants, which helps the milkweed thrive. R.E.A.D Reach Every Amazing Detail: the dead. The news spurred comments like “check this out” “we Wednesdays 3- 5 pm. One-on-one reading compreAs part of this exhibit at 37 Sudden St., Watsonville, hension instruction for readers 2nd through 12th grade there is a book discussion, Braiding Sweetgrass: Indiggotta go!” and “Thanksgiving weekend.” The park is open 8 am to sunset. Hours at the Visitor Center: with California credentialed teachers. Sessions last 25 enous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings Friday-Monday, 11 am to 4 pm. Parking is $10 and supports minutes. By appointment only.. Call 831-427-7717 or of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer 6:30-8:30 p.m. email pro@santacruzpl.org the park. Visitors must wear masks at the kiosks for day-use Thursday, Nov. 18, at https://cccconfer.zoom.us/j/ Stories for Bedtime: Wednesday, Nov. 17, at entry. 98587540894#success 7 pm on Facebook or Youtube, presented by SCPL Librarian Jackie. New programs every other Wednesday Tuesdays PROPERTY TAX BILL DUE The Santa Cruz County has mailed out property tax bills, on Facebook and on the library’s YouTube Channel GRIEF THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS after that. See Storytimes for Children playlist at the and the first due date is approaching. November 9 thru December 14, phone or online. SCPL YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/ Your bill can be paid in two installments. The Hospice of Santa Cruz County offers individual grief santacruzpl support sessions (via phone or first installment is due on Nov. 1 and becomes Passionate Readers Book Discussion: 4th Zoom) and a special group, Coping delinquent after Dec. 10, and a penalty is charged. with Grief though the Winter Thursday at 10:30 am. Nov. 18: The Last Palace by The 2nd installment is due Feb. 1 and becomes Holidays, meeting virtually via Norman Eisen. Special date for November. delinquent after April 10. In-Person Tech Help: Fridays 10 am to noon. Tech- Zoom on Tuesday evenings. Penalties will be incurred if not paid before becoming delinquent. savvy staff will help you troubleshoot your issue with a Call (831) 430-3000 for more information and to register. 25-minute (or less) appointment. Make an appointment: ONLINE SEMINARS ABOUT NURSING HOME LAW Third Thursday Each Month https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/appointments/laselva California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform offers PET LOSS AND GRIEF SUPPORT VIA ZOOM Advance appointments are prioritized. Visit inforthree recorded legal seminars: 6 to 7:30 p.m., virtual meeting mation desk or call 831-427-7713 for help making Wednesday, Nov. 17: Elder Financial Abuse BirchBark Foundation’s Pet Loss and Grief Support an appointment. Arriving later than 5 minutes after Litigation: A Panel of Experts Zoom group offers a free support group, moderated scheduled time may result in appointment cancellation. To register, visit http://www.canhr.org/ Visit https://tinyurl.com/la-selva-library-events for more details by a licensed grief counseling therapist, on the third CANHR, a nonprofit, offers consumers a free fact sheet on Thursday of each month. nursing homes at http://www.canhr.org/factsheets/index.html, and future events. Register at https://www.birchbarkfoundation.org/griefsupport and will host The Elder Law Conference April 29-30, 2022, in or call 831-471-7255. TWO NEW GRACE HARBOR SHOPS Monterey. The Rustic Table Restaurant and Lighthouse Second Sundays Treasures Shoppe are open at 55 Brennan St., WatSUPPORT FOR MOTHERS OF SURVIVORS SANTA CRUZ ANTIQUE STREET FAIRE sonville, sharing space with Grace Harbor Women’s Survivors Healing Center is offering online women’s 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Pacific Ave. between Lincoln and Cedar Streets Center, a satellite of the nonprofit faith-based Teen support groups and mothers of survivors of childhood The Santa Cruz Antique Street Faire features more than sexual abuse support group. The goals are to empower Challenge Monterey Bay and Pajaro Rescue Mission. 40 outdoor vendors. Grace Harbor is a shelter and recovery program for through a healing process and prevent sexual abuse of women (and their children) facing life controlling issues Visit https://www.facebook.com/santacruzantiquefaire/ for more children and youth. information such as drugs and alcohol. You are not alone. You are not to blame. Hours at Rustic Table, a professionally trained studentMore information: (831) 423-7601 or www.survivorshealing run restaurant with dine-in and pick-up options, are DATED EVENTS center.org Monday through Saturday 8 am-3 pm. Hours at Lighthouse Treasures Shoppe, a secondhand Tuesday November 16 UNITED AGAINST HATE WEEK retail store run by Teen Challenge students and staff, are RAMSAY PARK INPUT MEETING November 14-20 6-7:30 p.m., Zoom Meeting The Santa Cruz Public Libraries sponsors film screenings Monday through Saturday 10am-5pm. The City of Watsonville has $23 million, two-thirds from for United Against Hate Week, Nov. 14 – 20 through the The phone for both places is 831-761-3191.
Have a virtual or live event you want to promote? Send your information to info@cyber-times.com by November 19
28 / November 15th 2021 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
COMMUNITY CALENDAR DCC will review requirements for commercial cannabis farming. CDFW will cover its online notification system, types of permits issued and compliance requirements. The State Water Board will review cannabis policy and permitting process. Questions can be submitted in advance by emailing askcannabis@wildlife.ca.gov with “Cannabis Webcast” as the subject line. Questions not answered during the webcast will be forwarded to the appropriate agency. For information on becoming a licensed commercial cannabis farmer, see cannabis.ca.gov, call Wednesday November 17 1 844-61-CA-DCC (1-844-612-2322) or email info@cannabis.ca.gov. PV WATER MANAGEMENT AGENCY HEARING To report suspected illegal cannabis activity, visit 7 p.m., Online Meeting The Pajaro Valley Water Management Agency Board of https://cannabis.ca.gov/resources/file-complaint/. To report pollution, water diversions and poaching, Directors will host a public hearing at 7 p.m. Nov 17 call the hotline at (888) 334-2258 or text information to to consider adoption of the Basin Management Plan: “TIP411” (847411). Groundwater Sustainability Update 2022. For more about this process, see https://www.pvwater. For compliance assistance regarding the Division of Water Quality, email dwq.cannabis@waterboards.ca.gov or call (916) org/sustainable-gw-committee. The meeting video link and call-in information will be 341-5580. posted by Nov. 12 at www.pvwater.org INTERFAITH MEMORIAL SERVICE & CANDLE LIGHTING For information call (831) 722-9292 6:30 p.m., Online or at Resurrection Catholic Community, CANNABIS WORKSHOP ON RECEIVING A PERMIT 7600 Soquel Drive, Aptos 10-11:30 a.m., Zoom Workshop Hospice of Santa Cruz County invites you to the Interfaith Memorial Service & Candle Lighting The California Department of Fish and Wildlife, in-person (masks required) at Resurrection Cathlic Department of Cannabis Control and State Water Community or online: hospicesantacruz.org/event/ Resources Control Board will host a commercial canfall-interfaith-21 nabis cultivation permitting workshop. The Zoom link: This is an opportunity to pause during the busy https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85790781060 The free workshop is for new and existing commercial holiday season and tune into what counts: Rememcannabis cultivators, consultants and interested parties. bering a beloved family member or dear friend who has died. Whether your loved one recently passed, No registration is required. federal COVID relief, to invest in Ramsay Park, the city’s largest park and recreational resource, and is seeking community input at a virtual meeting 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 16. To join the meeting: https://cityofwatsonville-org. zoomgov.com/j/1606920953 The City is working with Verde Design, Inc. on the design, including these elements: Soccer Field, Multi Use Field, All Inclusive Playground, Nature Center, Dog Park and Picnic areas. For information and updates see https://tinyurl.com/ramsay-park-project. Construction is expected to begin in mid-2023.
or is someone who you have carried in your heart for many years, this memorial service nourishes hearts and spirit by honoring both the sadness and joy that comes with remembrance. Services are free. Attendees are welcome to bring a photograph or object of your loved one for the remembrance table. Children and families are welcome.
free Tech Talk this month for Apple and Android devices. Nov. 18: Media Manipulation Check the library’s calendar, top of the website, at www. santacruzpl.org to register and receive the Zoom link.
SHERIFF HART SPEAKS TO APTOS CHAMBER 7:30-9:30 a.m., Best Western Seacliff Inn, Aptos The first breakfast meeting of the year for the Aptos Thursday November 18 Chamber of Commerce will feature 12TH ANNUAL MORTON MARCUS POETRY READING an update from Santa Cruz County 5:30 p.m., Zoom webinar. Sheriff Jim Hart. The UC Santa Cruz Humanities Institute presents the Enjoy a hot breakfast, meet your 12th Annual Morton Marcus Poetry Reading featuring neighbors, and local business Gary Young. owners. Young is the author of several collections of poetry. His most recent books are That’s What I Thought, Price: $25 members, $30 general Jim Hart winner of the Lexi Rudnitsky Editor’s Choice Award from admission. Register at: https://forms. Persea Books, and Precious Mirror, translations from gle/u5EhM9xxJnJLczPPA the Japanese. Young was the first Poet Laureate of Santa Cruz Saturday November 20 County. He teaches creative writing and directs the Sunday November 21 Cowell Press at UCSC. The event honors Morton Marcus, a nationally GEM HOLIDAY SALE acclaimed poet who called Santa Cruz his home for 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Live Oak Grange, 1900 17th Avenue, Santa more than 50 years before he died in 2009. Visit www. Cruz mortonmarcus.com for more informa-tion. Santa Cruz Mineral and Gem Society will have a Rockin’ Organizing Committee: Len Anderson, Hannah Hutton, Danusha Laméris, Elizabeth McKenzie, Donna Holiday Sale at the Live Oak Grange. See gifts of nature and art from around the world Mekis, Teresa Mora, Mark Ong, Maggie Paul, Irena — gems, jewelry, rocks, minerals, and lapidary Polić, Catherine Segurson, and Jo-seph Stroud. Free and open to the public; register at thi.ucsc.edu . arts. Morton Marcus Poetry Reading: https://thi.ucsc.edu/projects/ Free admission and parking. morton-marcus-poetry-reading Information: 408-644-7848, scruzmgs@gmail.com, or http:// scrockngem.org TECH TALK AT THE LIBRARY “Calendar” page 31 11 a.m. to noon, Zoom Seminars Santa Cruz Public Libraries offers one more
Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County
Holiday Food and Fund Drive Hunger heros are still feeding Hope! Presenting Sponsor
Donate Today
Online: www.thefoodbank.org By mail: Second Harvest Food Bank 800 Ohlone Parkway Watsonville, Ca. 95076 By phone: 831-232-8663
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Ambassador Sponsor
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2021 / 29
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Reasons to Support Local Businesses This Holiday Season By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District
T
he holiday season is traditionally one of the largest sales times for many retailers. Over the last year-and-a-half, local businesses have been facing additional pressures as a result of the pandemic and subsequent economic downturn. Many have faced declines in sales as online retailing has increased and others are having staffing challenges that have required hours to change or owners to work multiple shifts. As a community we have a unique opportunity to show support for our small, locally-owned businesses as they compete with national online retailers — especially during the holiday season. In Santa Cruz County, 82 percent of local businesses have less than 9 employees. Many in the Mid and South County
work for locally-owned businesses and our local economy is dependent upon a robust small business sector. Some of the local businesses offer online ordering (with same day pick-up) and there are many options (from traditional retail items, to bakery items to hardware) that you can order locally online and pick up straight from the local business. Many in our area are working with local Chambers of Commerce to advertise extended holiday specials that extend beyond the traditional Black Friday or Small Business Saturday (which is Saturday, Nov. 27 this year) timeframes. According to an analysis by the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, “locally owned businesses play a central role in healthy communities and are among the best engines that cities and towns have
for advancing economic opportunity and building resilient places.” Specifically, they note work from an economist at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta that showed counties with larger shares of local small businesses outperform their peers on three critical economic indicators: They have stronger per capita income growth, faster employment growth and lower poverty rates. Additionally, an analysis from the Government Finance Review, found that smaller local businesses (versus box store chains) provide more tax revenue on the aggregate while costing less in government services. We have many locally-owned businesses that provide a variety of options for our holiday shopping including kid’s stores, restaurant gift certificates, great coffee shops, clothing stores, jewelers, locally-owned hotel getaway options and more. Some of these small businesses have
been recognized nationally for their unique options and all of these businesses employ local residents and many are owned by residents right here in the mid and south county. A number of these businesses are now offering shipping options to you or to those you are purchasing gifts for to save you a trip out and provide an extra layer of safety this holiday season. If you’d like additional information, the Aptos Chamber of Commerce has a businesses directory and holiday specials at www.aptoschamber.com or the Capitola/ Soquel Chamber at www.capitolachamber. com and the Pajaro Valley Chamber at www. pajarovalleychamber.com. n ••• As always, I appreciate hearing from you. I’m maintaining regular updates on social media at www.facebook.com/supervisorfriend and you can always call me at 454-2200.
COMMUNITY NEWS
O
$4 Million in Road Damage from CZU Fire Cleanup
n Nov. 17, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors will take
testimony from impacted residents on millions of dollars in unresolved damage to public and private roads in the CZU wildfire burn scar area. This will be part of the regular 9 a.m. meeting. To view online, see http:// santacruzcountyca.iqm2. com/citizens/default.aspx? The county contends roads were damaged by debris removal activities by a subcontractor for CalRecycle, which removes debris at no charge for survivors after major wildfires. The subcontractor, Anvil Builders of San Francisco, “used heavy
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equipment and repetitive heavy loads to modify and damage rural roads, including Last Chance Road, Whitehouse Canyon Road, Swanton-area roads and more,” according to a county press release. Steel-tracked machinery used by Anvil was “inappropriate for local conditions,” according to the county. Residents want their roads to be returned to their original condition. To date, 71 damage claims have been filed by individual property owners and small road associations. Most have been denied by the state. The County has already filed damage claims and appeals for 17 public roads with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which denied initial claims and
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signaled that appeals are not likely to succeed because a state contractor caused the damage. Anvil operated under an approximately $225 million contract to remove debris at several August 2020 lightning complex fires. Damage to public roads is estimated at $4.4 million. The most severely damaged: Last Chance Road, estimated at $2.7 million, where culverts and drainage is needed to keep the road passable during winter storm weather. Private road damage was not available. The county reports discussions with CalRecycle and the California Office of Emergency Services have not led to support for local residents who expect their roads to be restored to pre-wildfire condition.
SCCAS Featured Pet
S
Homer is a Staff and Volunteer Favorite!
ay hello to staff and volunteer favorite, Homer! This boy is a heartthrob, and we know the perfect family is waiting to meet him! Homer came into the Shelter limping on his back legs, but our vet determined through x-ray and exam that he has a bad stifle and degenerative joint disease (DJD). Although tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) surgery might help, Homer could live a comfortable life with just weight loss and pain management! Adopters are recommended to help Homer lose weight through diet and exercise, which he will enjoy because he loves hanging with his people! Homer will also need daily pain medication and a family who will put his health first — which shouldn’t be hard, look at that face! Homer is 4 years young, and he loves to be around his human friends. He is not only incredibly handsome, but he loves pets and snuggles, and he will make a great companion. If you’re looking to add a snuggly hunk to your family this holiday season, come meet Homer, his big smile is sure to make your days better! Due to an increase in dogs at the Shelter, all adult dogs are available for a $50 adoption fee. This includes spay/neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccinations. So, what are you waiting for? Come meet your new best friend at the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter! Adoptions are first come, first served! Please view available animals on our website and then visit the Shelter to turn in your application. All adoptions require proof of home ownership or landlord approval. Please have this information prepared. If an animal is in Foster Care, please bring in your adoption application and schedule an appointment to meet the animal. Call 831-454-7200 x0 during business hours or visit www.scanimalshelter.org for more information! n ••• Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s full-service, open-admission shelter: Santa Cruz Location (Public Entrance): 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 Hours: Daily 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Watsonville Location: CURRENTLY CLOSED 580 Airport Blvd, Watsonville, CA 95076 SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182 • After Hours: jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us
Tickets available the day of the event; box office at Crocker Theater opens at 6 p.m. Call (831) 479-6154
“Calendar” from page 29
Sunday November 21 AROMAS’ HOLIDAY ARTS FESTIVAL 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Aromas Sports Park, 300 Aromas Road. Aromas Hills Artisans’ annual Christmas “Holiday Art Festival” returns after taking 2020 off. Making up for lost time, this year’s festival will be a wonderful art show and sale with live music in a safe place, the Aromas Sports Park. It’s always fun to chat with the artists and work on filling the Christmas list. Jesse Martinez will sing and Christine Martinez will demonstrate the art of making yarn out of wool. Jacque will be host a workshop for you to create with beads. Hot food available, free parking — kids and dogs are welcome of course.
HOLIDAY ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Community Health Trust (Kathleen King Room), 85 Nielson St., Watsonville After a year-and-a-half of distancing, the Watsonville Silver Circle will roll out its Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair at the Community Health Trust of Pajaro Valley — opposite the Watsonville Community Hospital main entrance. More than 20 artists will show and sell artwork and THE DAISY STORE: UPSCALE RESALE crafts, plus live music by 1-4 p.m., 1601 41st Avenue, Capitola Jesse Martinez and free Come check out The Daisy Store’s selection of over 200 cider and cookies. The high-quality gowns on sale at 80% off. Sizes 4 – 20 available. spacious, airy room will be lit up with a Christmas tree Also: BLACK FRIDAY sale Nov. 26 & 27: Entire store and beautiful decorations. 50% off. Kati D’Amore, Bill McQuary and Goretti Calvalho will For more information, visit The Daisy Store’s Facebook page display paintings and Jack Wilkins will have his wildlife or fsa-cc.org/daisy/. photographs for sale. Watch Chris Martinez demonstrate how to turn wool DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR VISUAL ARTS NETWORK into yarn and Lynn Stewart turn yarn into lovely knitted Apply by Midnight, https://www.zapplication.org/event-info. items. Christine West has handmade greeting cards and exquisite shadow boxes. Sonia Westphal will show her php?ID=9861 Join your creative neighbors on the Visual Arts Network, quilts and purses. Claudia Harden will display her hand-painted an initiative of Arts Council Santa Cruz County. Ukrainian eggs and Barb Scoles will show her handMore than 400 visual artists in Santa Cruz County carved Santas. Louise Coombs has hand-sewn masks have joined this curated online directory to showcase their work and build relationships with local art-lovers. in all sizes and colors. Local authors Debra Smith and Joyce Oroz will have their books on hand. There will be Each artist has their own page where they can share their work, their process, and connect with their peers pottery, gourmet items by Julie Conrad, wind chimes, glass art and handmade jewelry. Oh yes, and baked and the public. Applications for the 2021-2022 year are open at https://www. goods! zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=9861
Friday November 26 MEET SANTA AT THE MALL Time TBA, Capitola Mall, 1855 41 Ave., Capitola Santa is arriving at Capitola Mall the day after Thanksgiving. Santa’s Christmas Cabin will be between Macy’s and the new Food Hall until Dec. 24. For days and hours, see shopcapitolamall.com. ••• Visitors to the mall will find new stores: Santa Cruz Special, Knotty and Grain, Vintage Nouveau, Seconds, Flair, Tragically Hip and Hadbro Collectables. Coming soon: Exit Escape Rooms. Upcoming holiday shops: Go! Calendars - Games & Toys and Tibet Creations. New in the Food Hall: Ramen Kaito, East West Pizza Company, Tako Mex and Yumi Poke. Local food trucks Taquizas Gabriel and Saucey’z park at the far east end of the parking lot across from Kohl’s. For days and hour, see their Instagram pages.
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Saturday November 27
Thanksgiving © Statepoint Media
Thursday December 2 Friday December 3
BOARDWALK OUTDOOR MARKET 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Concourse, 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk will host an open-air market, with local artisans and up to 30 booths. There will be jewelry, art, crafts, health and beauty products, home décor and views of the ocean. Visit https://beachboardwalk.com/open-airmarket for more information.
Wednesday December 1 CABRILLO IMPROV FOLLIES 7 p.m., Black Box Theater at Cabrillo College, Aptos Cabrillo College Theatre Arts Department presents an evening of improvisation in the Black Box Theatre. Students in the Improvisation class will perform fun and thought provoking skits as their final exam.
Friday December 3 Saturday December 4 HERITAGE HOLIDAY CRAFT & GIFT FAIR The Heritage Holiday Craft & Gift Fair will take place noon to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 3-4, at the county fairgrounds in Watsonville, filling the Harvest, Crosetti, and Fine Art buildings. Besides handmade crafts and gifts, there will be antiques, collectibles, toys, and more. Many crafters return year after year. Food favorites will be available for sale in the Heritage Holiday Kitchens. Admission $6 per person; kids 6 and under are free. Parking is free. Shuttle service to the building doors until 5 p.m. New this year, Holiday Lights at the fairgrounds will offer a walk through the lights each evening. Those attending the Holiday Fair earlier in the day can get a hand stamp to re-enter that evening when the entire Fairgrounds turns into a lighted holiday spectacular — fun for the whole family. Info: https://fairgrounds-foundation.org
Saturday December 4 HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR/TREE LIGHTING 1-5 p.m., Aptos Village Green The Aptos Chamber of Commerce will host the return of its annual Holiday Craft Fair and Tree Lighting Ceremony at Aptos Village Green. Call 831-688-1467 for more information.
Saturday December 4 Sunday December 5 ART IN THE CELLARS 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Bargetto Winery, 3535 N. Main St., Soquel Bargetto Winery will host their annual “Art in the Cellars” Holiday Festival. Wine tasting with purchase of $15 glass; food available for purchase. Visit https://bargetto.com/pec-events/annual-art-inthe-cellars-holiday-festival/ for more information. Admission is free; dress warmly. n
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2021 / 31
OCTOBER 2021
APTOS & LA SELVA BEACH BY THE NUMBERS
35
1.475m
Homes Sold
95% List Price Received
Median Sale Price
22
Average Days on Market
27
New Listings
THERE HAS NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO SELL It's a sellers market right now. Have you thought of selling? Have you noticed the listings in your neighborhood? They are all selling for record-breaking prices. Above is a look at sales data around your home. Contact Amber today to learn the value of your home in today's market.
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