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UCSC Medical School?
By Jondi Gumz
One challenge hospitals in the tri-county area share: Not enough primary care doctors.
On Nov. 8, UC Santa Cruz Chancellor Cynthia Larive floated a solution at the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership State of the Region conference: She’s thinking about a medical school to train doctors on the Central Coast.
The closest public medical school is at UC San Francisco, 90 minutes away; then UC Davis, more than two hours away.
Previous chancellors focused on opening an engineering school, and building up the game design program and renovating the aging Kresge College dorms. ... continues on page 4
Greystar Team to Build Cabrillo Student Housing
A team led by Greystar, a 31-year-old global rental housing company with nearly 1 million multifamily units and student beds (including four in Santa Cruz) will build the first student housing at Cabrillo College.
Aptos Girls Tennis: Perfect!
Aptos High Girls Tennis had an amazing season, securing the 2024 SCCAL League Title with a perfect 10-0 League record!
We had nine returning players this year including Team Captain Aviana Andrews, a senior who was an undefeated force... Full Story page 15
Greystar Team to
Cabrillo Student Housing, By Jondi Gumz 8 Watsonville Hospital Property Now Locally Owned, By Jondi Gumz
Rural Highways Safety: What Can Be Done?, By Jondi Gumz
11 County Uses Cameras to Catch Dumpers 16 Mesmerized by Monarchs • Campaign for Farmworker Opportunity Center
18 Does Your Home Have Defensible Space?
19 Cabrillo College Receives $150,000 for Veterans Mental Health • Freedom Lake Restoration to Begin
20 County Recommends $3.44 Million for 28 Programs, By Jondi Gumz 21 Live Oak Library Annex Open House 22 New School Lauded by Foundation • Youth Scholarships: Can You Help?, By Tricia Wiltshire
Central Fire’s Measure R Short of 2/3rds • PVUSD: Carol Turley, Jessica Carrasco, Gabriel Medina Lead, By Jondi Gumz • Pajaro Valley School Bond Clears 55% • Kim De Serpa Leads by 600 Votes, By Jondi Gumz • Incumbent Democrats Win State Races, By Jondi Gumz Local Sports
15 Aptos Girls Tennis: Perfect!, By Tammi Brown
Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – Mantram of Unification & the Scorpio Tests, By Risa D’Angeles
Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29
Featured Columnists
13 Post-Election Teachable Moments, By Dr. Alison Hanks-Sloan, aka Dr. AHS, Aptos High Principal
23 Survival Guide: Trekking through Airports, By Christopher Elliott
24 A Meeting of Soulmates, By Barry and Joyce Vissell
30 More Reasons to Shop at Local Businesses This Holiday Season, By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District
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$49 Million Settlement in Drug Price-Fixing Case
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n Oct. 31, California Attorney General Rob Bonta, with a coalition of 50 states and territories, announced cooperation agreements and settlements with Heritage Pharmaceuticals and, in the near future, Apotex totaling $49.1 million to resolve allegations that the companies engaged in conspiracies to artificially inflate and manipulate prices, reduce competition, and unreasonably restrain trade on numerous generic prescription drugs.
Heritage, headquartered in Eatontown, N.J., is a maker of generic drug that agreed
COVER STORY
Larive’s to-do list includes building apartments on campus for students with families and opening a new child care center, building student dorms on Heller Drive and building apartments on Delaware Avenue. Larive sees the need for primary care doctors.
As Allen Radner, president and CEO of
a.m. – 2 p.m.
to pay a $7 million penalty in 2019 to defer prosecution for price-fixing for glyburide, a prescription medication to lower blood sugar for people with type 2 diabetes.
Apotex is the largest producer of generic drugs in Canada.
In 2021, In 2021, Apotex in Florida agreed to pay a $49 million federal penalty and admitted conspiring to increase the price of pravastatin, a prescription drug used to treat high cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
In 2020, Apotex paid a $24.1 million federal criminal penalty and admitted to conspiring to increase the price on pravastatin.
Connecticut led a coalition of nearly all states and territories in filing the three antitrust complaints, starting with the first in 2014.
As part of the latest settlement agreements, both companies agreed to cooperate in the ongoing multistate litigations against 30 corporate defendants and 25 individual executives.
“Price-Fixing” page 6
Salinas Valley Health, told the 300 conference attendees at CSU Monterey Bay, “This is a massive national problem -- 50% physicians are over the age of 60. Last year, we needed 45 new primary care providers. We’re nowhere near those numbers.”
to address the shortage of primary care doctors.
Among those retiring: Dr Stephen Packer, who has been CEO of Montage Health in Monterey for 25 years.
His solutions: Investing in a workforce partnership with CSU Monterey Bay for nurses, home-buying assistance and child care.
What UCSC has done is offer a global and community health major, in its third year, and this year, launch a post-baccalaureate program at the MBEST center in Marina and raise $100,000 for 12 graduates wanting to pursue medical and dental careers.
Larive is excited about the possibility of a medical school and has heard support but cautioned she could not put a timeline on it.
One example to follow is UC Merced, which was established in 2005 and will open its medical school in 2027.
Location?
Where could a medical school be located?
At the Enterprise Technology Centre (formerly Borland) in Scotts Valley, where UCSC signed a 20-year lease in 2016?
Or in Monterey County, where the need for primary care is so great?
AI Use
“We are piloting AI (artificial intelligence) tools to do all of the charting,” Packer said.
One way to expedite such an initiative, Larive told Aptos Times, would be with a partnership – for example, medical students taking classes at UCSF Medical School then coming to Santa Cruz County and Monterey County for clinical rotations.
That’s partnership model is already in use at Dominican Hospital, which teamed with Morehouse Medical School to place 8 of their graduates in family medicine clinical rotations that include Salud para La Gente and Santa Cruz Community Health.
That’s a 3-year program with Dominican’s parent, CommonSpirit, designed
Another strategy: Remote patient monitoring for high blood pressure, heart failure and diabetes.
Rosa Vivian Fernandez, president and CEO of San Benito Health Foundation, partnered with CSU Monterey Bay to bring bilingual doctors licensed in Mexico to see patients at the federally qualified health center. That program, under AB 1045, also applies to dentists.
Asked about AI, Mickiewicz demurred, saying it was “very early” but Radner cited a pilot project to reduce documenting by nurses, which he hopes will mean more “face time” with patients.
Packer said AI is being used to identify patients overdue for screening such as Pap smear.
Fernandez said, “We are updating to incorporate AI in the future.”
She added, “The human interaction is not going to be obliterated.” n
Cover Photo: Alece Birnbach creates a visual recording of the State of the Region conference presented by Monterey Bay Economic Partnership.
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Add Ease to Year-End Giving
By Susan True & Hilary Bryant
As the year draws to a close, you may feel like we do, grateful to be part of this community and wanting to give back. Here at Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, we can help make your yearend giving joyful and easy.
A trusted center for giving for 42 years, we’re proud to be a place where charitable giving becomes local, personal, and meaningful.
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assets into tax-smart gifts. You can give cash, stocks, property, retirement funds, insurance — or we can advise on other assets you may be able to give.
As you plan your giving and are age 70 ½ or older and have an IRA, consider using your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) for charitable giving. These charitable IRA “rollovers” are tax-free and can benefit eligible charities.
You can use your RMD to contribute to any of our community funds or we can help you set up a new fund that benefits a cause you care about.
Community Wins
Our hands-on, personal approach to philanthropy empowers you to show generosity in ways meaningful to you.
Regardless of the gift size, we’re able to recommend a giving strategy and with
Photo Credit: Jeremy Lezin
From left: Raymon Cancino, CEO, Community Bridges; Susan True, CEO, Community Foundation Santa Cruz County; MariaElena De La Garza, executive director, Community Action Board & Foundation trustee; Rob Allen, estate planning attorney & foundation trustee; Diane Syrcle, chief mission officer, Hospice Santa Cruz County; Ruby Vasquez, PVUSD educator & founder of Estrellas de Esperanza.
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“Price-Fixing” from page 4
Both companies also agreed to internal reforms to ensure fair competition and compliance with antitrust laws, according to Bonta.
A motion for preliminary approval of the $10 million settlement with Heritage is on file in the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut in Hartford.
A settlement with Apotex for $39.1 million is contingent upon obtaining signatures from all necessary states and territories and is to be finalized and filed for approval in the U.S. District Court soon.
“When drug prices are inflated, it often forces patients to make impossible choices between essential medications and basic necessities, while undermining our healthcare system, which is meant to work for individuals, not corporations,” said Bonta. “I am proud to stand with 50 states and territories to hold Heritage and Apotex accountable for their unconscionable action of raising drug prices in order to line their own pockets.”
The three cases against these companies stem from a series of investigations built on evidence from several cooperating witnesses at the core of the different conspiracies alleged in each case, a database of over 20 million documents, and a separate database containing millions of call detail records and contact information for over 600 sales and pricing individuals in the generics industry.
Each complaint addresses a different set of drugs and defendants and shows how an interconnected web of industry executives meant to be competitors met up for industry dinners, “girls’ nights out,” lunches, cocktail parties, golf outings, and communicated through frequent telephone calls, emails, and text messages, sowing the seeds for their illegal agreements.
Company employees used terms like “fair share,” “playing nice in the sandbox,” and “responsible competitor” to describe how they unlawfully discouraged competition, raised prices, and enforced an ingrained culture of collusion.
Among the records obtained by the coalition is a two-volume notebook
containing the contemporaneous notes of one of the coalition’s cooperators that memorialized his discussions during phone calls with competitors and internal company meetings over a period of several years.
The first complaint included Heritage and 17 other corporate defendants, two individual defendants, and 15 generic drug manufacturers.
Jeffrey Glazer, the former CEO of Heritage Pharmaceuticals, and Jason Malek, the former president, have since entered into settlement agreements and are cooperating.
The second complaint was filed Teva Pharmaceuticals, a drugmaker with $8.99 billion revenue in 2021 and $15.8 billion in 2023, and 19 of the nation’s largest generic drug manufacturers. The complaint names 16 individual senior executive defendants.
The third complaint, which will be tried first, focuses on 80 primarily topical generic drugs that account for billions of dollars of sales in the United States and names 26 corporate defendants and 10 individual defendants.
Six additional pharmaceutical executives have entered into settlement agreements with the coalition and have been cooperating to support the coalition’s claims in all three cases, according to Bonta.
Bonta joined the attorneys general of Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, U.S. Virgin Islands, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Puerto Rico.
If you purchased a qualifying generic prescription drug between 2010 and 2018, you may be eligible for compensation. To determine your eligibility, call 1-866-290-0182 (Toll-Free), email info@AGGenericDrugs.com, or visit www. AGGenericDrugs.com.
Greystar Team to Build Cabrillo Student Housing
By Jondi Gumz
Ateam led by Greystar, a 31-year-old global rental housing company with nearly 1 million multifamily units and student beds (including four in Santa Cruz) will build the first student housing at Cabrillo College.
On Nov. 1, Cabrillo’s board of trustees voted 5-0 to award the project to Greystar, and the student trustee concurred.
The 624-bed complex is a joint project with UC Santa Cruz, 60% of beds for Cabrillo students and 40% of beds for UCSC students, with a childcare facility for residents.
The multi-story buildings, estimated to cost $124 million to build, will be located in a soccer field off Cabrillo College Drive.
Cabrillo College partnered with Jones Lang Lasalle, a global real estate services company, to prepare a request for proposals for a developer to design, build, finance, operate and maintain the student housing.
The board also approved Collegiate Housing Foundation to work with the college as part of a public-private partnership to oversee the construction and operate the housing site.
Greystar was founded in 1993 by Bob Faith, who was named Multifamily Executive of the Year in 2017 by Commercial Property Executive & Multi-Housing News and No. 6 in the 2024 Power 100 by the Commercial Observer.
Greystar remains privately owned and is the largest operator of apartments in the U.S.
In Santa Cruz, it owns Cypress Point, Five55, The Hilltop, and the Landing in
Capitola Apartments, and more in Monterey, Marina and Seaside.
The Greystar team includes WRNS Studio (architect), Devcon Construction (general contractor), and Raymond James (underwriter).
The Greystar timeline proposes to break ground in fall 2025, with construction being completed in fall 2027, the bestcase scenario for Cabrillo and UCSC students to move in at the start of fall semester and quarter, respectively.
“I’m proud of the work that was done, and I am very excited to see the renderings and move to the next phase of the project,” said Dr. Matt Wetstein, Cabrillo College president and superintendent. “This student housing project will greatly benefit our students, 20% of whom are housing insecure, and will help alleviate the housing crisis in our local community.”
Preliminary renderings show five-story buildings next to a lighted promenade, with an outdoor gathering space and a rooftop garden. The final design is to be completed in the next eight months.
“Cabrillo Housing” page 11
Proposed Early Design Rendering – Aerial (Work in Progress) • Developed by Greystar
Watsonville Hospital Property Now Locally Owned
By Jondi Gumz
Five years after Watsonville Community Hospital was sold for $40 million to publicly traded Medical Properties Trust, which is owned by investors such as Black Rock and State Street Corp, the 27-acre hospital property is back in local hands.
The Pajaro Valley Health Care District Corporation, a new entity created May 11, 2022 to rescue the hospital from bankruptcy, purchased the buildings and grounds for $40 million.
Notice how this real estate did not escalate in value.
The Pajaro Valley Health Care District announced the transaction on Nov. 1.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who supported Measure N, and especially to the voters of the health care district for believing in their local hospital,” said Stephen Gray, CEO of the Pajaro Valley Health Care District and Watsonville Community Hospital. “The completion of this property transaction is the final milestone in our journey back to being truly community owned.”
The 106-bed hospital, with maternity care, cardiac care, robotic surgery, rehab services, and an emergency department, has 650 employees and more than 300 physicians.
This monumental acquisition was made possible by voters from Aptos to Watsonville and Pajaro living in the Pajaro Valley Health Care District, who passed Measure N, $116 million in bonds, with a 68% yes in March. Property owners will pay $24 per $100,000 assessed value per year to repay those bonds.
This purchase of property was the first use of funds, with the reminder to go into upgrades, renovations and expansion.
As the owner, the hospital will be able to save $3 million annually in lease and insurance payments, which is to be reinvested back into serving the community and improving healthcare services.
“This day means so much to so many people who have rolled up their sleeves to do what was needed to ensure access to healthcare services for the Pajaro Valley,” Gray said.
He added, “Our hospital has provided quality healthcare since 1895, and thanks to the collaborative efforts of our community, we are looking ahead to 2025, when we will launch our cardiac catheterization lab and continue to look for ways to improve the health of the people we serve.”
Under ownership by for-profit company Halsen Healthcare, Watsonville Community Hospital struggled financially. Three of the former top Halsen executives were accused in a lawsuit of siphoning $3.9 million for their personal use. That case was reassigned to a new judge in August with a conference date later this month.
Community members raised $65 million – including $25 million from the state –thanks to lobbying by state Sen. John Laird-- to buy the hospital operations and the cost of emerging from bankruptcy such as legal fees.
The 300 attendees at the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership’s State of the Region conference heard about efforts to reopen Madera Community Hospital, also 106 beds, serving an area where one-fifth live in poverty and many lack health insurance, which means relying on federal Medicare reimbursement and state MediCal reimbursement, neither covering expenses.
With the hospital closure, patients with emergencies must drive to Clovis 33 miles away or Merced 38 miles away.
Assemblywoman Anna Caballero (D-Salinas) said she pushed to create a state program to help financially distressed hospitals.
Under new management, the Madera hospital has seen upgrades and hiring fairs, and the CEO hopes to reopen by the end of the year. n
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Rural Highways Safety: What Can Be Done?
By Jondi Gumz
Wcan be done to reduce fatal crashes (and severe injury crashes) on our highways?
Specifically, Highway 1 north of Santa Cruz, Highway 9, Highway 236, and Highway 35 and Highways 129 and 152 outside the Watsonville city limits.
All of these are not only highways but also main streets and connector for communities.
This does not include local streets such as Trout Gulch Road in Aptos near Trout Gulch Crossing, where local residents have called for safety measures because of cars hitting people on foot.
Overall crashes on these six highways dropped during the pandemic but have risen to near the 2017 peak. Since 2014, fatal and severe injury crashes have hovered between 20 and 30.
The Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission has a Caltrans planning grant to identify locations of crashes and patterns of occurrence to generate and prioritize measures to create a roadmap to Vision Zero – Zero highway crashes.
The intent is to achieve zero traffic deaths
and serious injuries by 2050 with projects and strategies implemented through close partnerships with Caltrans.
What Works Elsewhere
New York City, the first U.S. city to adopt Vision Zero in 2014, saw a 29% decrease in pedestrian deaths over a decade, as pedestrian deaths increased 67.4% nationally.
New York City reprogrammed traffic signals to give pedestrians a few more seconds to cross, lowered the speed limit to 25 mph and installed automated speed cameras in school zones.
Hoboken, New Jersey, and Alexandria, Virginia, achieved zero traffic fatalities.
Hoboken removed parking spaces near corners to improve sight lines for motorists.
Alexandria adopted speed cameras for enforcement and created slow zones near schools and senior centers, painting the speed limit on the road for greater visibility. The city crowdsourced with the pubic to identify the most dangerous locations.
Survey Closes Dec. 6
The Santa Cruz County RTC is asking people to identify problem intersections,
places you have witnessed crashes or near misses, or where you have safety concerns for those traveling using any mode of transportation. The survey closes Dec. 6.
About 20% of crashes result in a fatality or severe injuries.
When there is a fatality or serious injury, 11% of the time involves a person on a bicycle, 9% involves a person on foot.
A report prepared by planner Brianna Goodman presented data for consideration at a virtual public hearings on Oct. 23 and 24.
Comparing data from 2014 to 2013, Highway 9 had 90 crashes, with 90% involving cars.
Highways 1, 129, and 152 all have around 35 crashes.
On Highway 236, a person on foot was involved in 68% of crashes and 11% a person on a bicycle.
Severe and fatal crashes increase on the weekend when more people are on the highways.
The most dangerous time for severe and fatal, crashes is 3-7 p.m. and from 7 p.m. overnight.
“Highways Safety” page 14
COMMUNITY NEWS
County Uses Cameras to Catch Dumpers
The County of Santa Cruz announces surveillance cameras are being installed at key locations in unincorporated areas to help prevent illegal dumping.
This is part of the county’s strategy to protect the environment and make Santa Cruz County the cleanest in California.
Illegal dumping costs local taxpayers nearly half a million dollars annually in cleanup costs, according to county Public Works spokeswoman Tiffany Martinez.
Everyone in the County pays for the cost of cleanups. For every dollar spent to clean up an illegal dumpsite, that’s one less dollar available for other programs.
If a dumpsite is not cleaned up immediately, more people will add their garbage to the pile. Illegal dumpsites attract vermin, kill vegetation and destroy habitat, and contribute to water pollution.
Fines and penalties for illegal dumping start at $100 for first time violations. The fine increases to $200 for second offenses and $500 for the third violation within one year.
Surveillance cameras have been installed
“Cabrillo Housing” from page 7
at three locations. Violators caught on camera face fines along with restitution costs. Cameras are operational, and enforcement efforts are underway. Additional camera locations are under consideration, according to Martinez.
Residents are encouraged to use the GreenWaste Bulky Item Collection Program, Overages Program, or recyclables collection program which offers three free pickups per year for GreenWaste customers living in unincorporated Santa Cruz County.
The Bulky Item Collection Program allows for the proper disposal of large items such as furniture and appliances. n
To schedule a pickup, call GreenWaste at: bit. ly/greenwastescc or by phone at (831) 426-2711. Learn more at: bit.ly/stop-illegal-dumping
College, and The Michaels Organization, the nation’s largest owner of affordable housing.
“We are thrilled to see this student housing project advancing to the next phase,” said UC Santa Cruz Chancellor Cynthia Larive. “It will provide essential, affordable housing for our students and Cabrillo students. The project will also strengthen the transfer pathway between our institutions, giving students the opportunity to start at Cabrillo, then finish with a bachelor’s degree from UC Santa Cruz, all while living in the same housing. That is both unique and extremely beneficial.”
Addendums to Cabrillo’s 1999 Environmental Impact Report, presented to trustees on Nov. 4, found no substantial impacts and no mitigation actions needed.
The joint student housing project, a first for California’s public universities, landed a $111 million state grant and attracted big names in real estate.
Greystar competed against Servitas, a nationwide student housing development and management company with 15 years’ experience, Balfour Beatty Campus Solutions, recently chosen for a $240 million student housing complex at William and Mary
The Evaluation Committee: Cabrillo College • President • Interim Vice President of Administrative Services • Dean of Student Services • Director, Facilities Planning and Plant Operations UCSC • Director, Real Estate and Contract Services.
To receive the grant from SB 169, students must rent at or below 30% of 50% area median income (about $1,046 per bed in 2024) and rent increases are limited.
To qualify to live here, Cabrillo students must be enrolled full time and be considered low income.
Cabrillo College staff expect this project help alleviate the affordable housing crisis in Santa Cruz County. n
ELECTION 2024
Central Fire’s Measure R Short of 2/3rds
This was a tough election year for local fire districts.
Central Fire District’s $221 million bond to relocate fire stations — Measure R — is falling short of the 2/3 yes needed to pass. It has 57.1% yea.
Votes are still being counted, with the deadline Dec. 2 to certify election results.
Scotts Valley Fire District’s $24.5 million bond to relocate the Erba Lane fire station to La Madrona Drive — Measure S — is also falling short, for the second time. It has 61.5% yes.
tax to pay for daytime firefighters has 72.2% yes.
Fire District Boards
In the Scotts Valley Fire District 5-way race for 3 seats, former chief Ron Whittle is leading with 6,486 votes, followed by Michael Weaver, a retired Sunnyale firefighter, 4,940 and incumbent Daron Pisciotta, 4,680.
Zayante Fire District’s parcel tax — Measure T — replacing an existing parcel
Trailing are Philip HoverSmoot, CEO of a startup, 3,210 and Zachary Raney, school administrator, 2,154.
In the Felton Fire District, which has had three fire chiefs in 18 months, there was a 7-way race for 3 seats. Appointed incumbent and volunteer firefighter Mike Shults,1,062 is
PVUSD: Carol Turley, Jessica Carrasco, Gabriel Medina Lead
By Jondi Gumz
Voters called for change on the Pajaro Valley Unified School District board, ousting three incumbents.
Although not all the votes from the Nov. 5 election are counted, challengers rolled up big leads.
In Area 1, Carol Turley has 2,808 votes to 2,206 for incumbent Georgia Acosta, a 600-vote margin.
In Area 6, Jessica Carasco has 2,387 votes to 1,782 for Adam Bolanos Scow, a 600-vote margin.
In Area 4, which covers Santa Cruz and Monterey counties, Gabriel Jesse Medina has 970 votes to 929 for Oscar Soto.
The incumbents did not renew the $110,000 contract with Community Responsive Education of Oakland, a consulting firm for ethnic studies,
in the lead, followed by Erica Schwanbeck, a county manager, 1,057, and Doug Conrad, former owner of Boulder Creek Hardware, and a past volunteer firefighter, 951.
Trailing are Judy Anderson, retired banker, 893, Jeffrey Myers, local business owner, 691, Mark Giblin, communications manager,682 and Adam Hensleigh, sales manager, 613.
In the Boulder Creek Fire District
four-way race for 3 seats, incumbent Robert Locatelli is leading with 3,040 votes, incumbent Chris Currier, 2,501, appointed incumbent David Scruggs, 2,451. and Vince Cortinas, utility manager, 2,359.
In the Aromas Tri-County Fire Protection District 3-way race for 2 seats, Michael Miller leads with 34 votes, and Kevin Stottrup 22 votes. Nazhat Parveen Sharma trails with 11. n
Pajaro Valley School Bond Clears 55%
Wover allegations of antisemitic views held by Allyson Tintiangco-Cubales, a San Francisco State University professor and CRE founder.
Teachers and students supported the curriculum.
Acosta and Soto wanted to see the outcome of AB 2918 on ethnic studies, which was held in committee.
The board did not end ethnic studies, but CRE was no longer a resource.
The issue prompted Turley and Medina to run.
Carrasco, a former teacher, and Scow supported the curriculum consultant.
If PVUSD board member Kim De Serpa is elected county supervisor, then one more seat on the 7-member board will open up. n
Kim De Serpa Leads by 600 Votes
By Jondi Gumz
Not all that votes are counted, but Aptos resident Kim De Serpa is leading Capitola Mayor Kristen Brown by 600 votes in the race for Second District County Supervisor.
De Serpa, a twice-elected member of the Pajaro Valley Unified School District board, has 11,964 votes.
Brown, twice elected to the Capitola City Council, has 11,305.
De Serpa’s tally has grown from early results showing a 460-vote lead. There are 225 write-ins, not enough to make a difference.
In the Fifth District, Encompass CEO Monica Martinez is leading software engineer Christopher Bradford by more than 3,300 votes.
Martinez, who lives in Felton, has 14,329 votes to 10,981 for Bradfodr, who lives in Boulder Creek. There are 59 write-ins.
The deadline to certify election results is Dec. 5. n
ith six school bonds on local ballots, the Pajaro Valley Unified School District’s $315 million bond — Measure M — is one of four with more than 55% yes needed to pass.
The Pajaro Valley school district straddles two counties.
In Santa Cruz County, 57.1% voted yes; 57.2% voted yes.
Votes are still being counted, with a Dec. 5 day to certify results.
Soquel Elementary School District’s $73 million bond — Measure P — has 55.7% yes.
Aromas-San Juan School District’s $44 million bond — Measure D — has 58.3% yes, with Santa Cruz County voters boosting it.
This district encompasses three counties. The vote in Santa Cruz County was 75.6% yes, San Benito County, 60.6% yes, and Monterey County, 54.9% yes.
Bonny Doon Elementary School District’s $7 million bond — Measure L — has 67.4% yes.
Two bond measures are currently falling short of 55%.
Scotts Valley Unified’s $85 million bond — Measure O — has 54.8% yes.
Live Oak School District’s $45 million bond — Measure N — has 47.5% yes.
A parcel tax for Lakeside Joint School District — Measure HH — needed 2/3 to pass and has 71.1% yes.
This district is in two counties.
In Santa Cruz County, 74% voted yes. In Santa Clara County, 67.5% voted yes. n
Incumbent Democrats Win State Races
By Jondi Gumz
In state and federal races, Santa Cruz County voters supported Democrat incumbents by 74% or more
Votes are still being counted, with the results to be certified Dec. 5.
In state races, district boundaries changed due to redistricting based on the census with county voters split into two and even three districts. Here are the Santa Cruz County numbers as of Nov. 11.
In Assembly District 30, which includes Santa Cruz County, Monterey County and San Luis Obispo County, Democrat Dawn Addis has 29,914 to 2,914 for Republican Dalila Epperson.
In Assembly District 29, the Salinas Valley, plus Watsonville, Aptos Hills, Corralitos and
Freedom, Democrat Robert Rivas, has 15,110 to 5,163 for Republican JW Paine.
In Assembly District 28, which includes Scotts Valley, Boulder Creek, Los Gatos Campbell and Morgan Hill, Democrat Gail Pellerin has 45,894 to 13,496 for Republican Liz Lawler.
In the State Senate 17th District, which includes all of Santa Cruz County, Democrat John Laird has 92,027 to 28036 for Republican Tony Virrueta.
In the 19th Congressional District, which includes the coast from Davenport to Cambria and Paso Robles, Democrat Jimmy Panetta has 82,781 to 20,451 for Republican Jason Michael Anderson.
“State Results” page 27
Kim De Serpa
Kristen Brown
Post-Election Teachable Moments
By Dr. Alison Hanks-Sloan, aka Dr. AHS, Aptos High Principal
The morning after election day, we had a mixture of emotions across the Aptos High School campus. From joyful cheers to shocking tears, we reminded our students and staff that we are on our AHS ship together.
There was a group of about 30 male students gathering around the election results with big smiles. There were many more groups of students with tissue boxes and red eyes. Throughout the week, students asked inquisitive questions, tuned into the news, and looked at election results.
Many of our social studies classes used the opportunity to reflect on the numbers: Which propositions passed (thanks for passing Measure M), how many registered voters cast their ballots, and how different communities voted. Students engaged in civil dialogues with one another in classroom spaces.
While we might have a variety of views represented, we still need to be kind to one another and respect our different opinions, post-election perspectives, and differing moods.
Unfortunately, a few students forgot to SAIL together.
One student walked up to another student who has a LGTBQ family member and told them that their family member has no rights, thanks to the election results. It left the student shocked and hurt that a fellow Mariner would be so emboldened and hurtful.
Another staff member made a similar comment about an LGTBQ adult, saying that they don’t belong in Aptos.
These reports are disheartening, contradicting the values we share as a school and a community.
actions, as we strive to nourish a school and neighborhoods where we can live and thrive among each other.
We have rules that exist to keep each other safe. At our school and in our state, those include valuing one another with different opinions and treating each other with respect. It also means knowing our country’s history, so we can empathize with one another, learn the lessons, and give value to significant teachable moments.
We reminded our students to continue to SAIL: create a Safe community at our school, Aspire higher, be Integrity oriented, and Lead by example.
I love using Paul Bailey’s phrase that Aptos loves Aptos. To me, that means that we look out for our community, everyone among us, and support one another. It means that we bring Mariner pride into our words and our
Ruby Bridges Annual Walk to School Day is Nov. 14. The day honors Ruby Bridges who was 6 years old when she integrated her New Orleans elementary school in 1960. The date has become a celebratory moment for us to align to end racism and bullying one step at a time. Many of our schools will be acknowledging and participating in this event, thanks to a team of student leaders participating in the superintendent’s council. All PVUSD schools are hosting their own mini-walk to commemorate the day.
This event is not just about remembering the work we have done as a nation to create schools that welcome all students. It is also about reflecting on our own biases and lack
of understanding among each other who may not pray, eat, look, or sound quite like we do. It is also about being aware of the words we use, and the power behind them.
“Post-Election” page 14
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FAMILY HELPING FAMILIES
Interested
“Highways Safety” from page 10
The fatal and severe injury accidents, improper turning was a factor more than 20% of time.
Unsafe speed and under the influence were each factors 20% of the time.
Are schools unsafe to walk to?
The report did not include data om crashes near schools.
To view the report see www.sccrtc.org/ wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241024RHSP-M1-Slide-Deck.pdf
The timetable calls for strategies for safety to be developed by May 2025 and to work on the plan from March to November 2025.
The team will prepare a draft report and finalize upon receiving comments from Caltrans, the RTC, stakeholders such as Metro bus service, San Lorenzo Valley Unified School District, Pajaro Valley Unified School District, UC Santa Cruz, first responders, business groups, neighborhood groups and the public.
The final report, which will be presented to the RTC for input and approval, must provide a federally acceptable document for projects to compete and meet the requirements for Highway Safety Improvement Program and Safe Streets for All funding. n
See sccrtc.org/rhsp to access the survey in English and Spanish
“Post-Election” from page 13
While the N-word might be common in different music genres, it does not give individuals the right to use it in our hallways, among each other, or out of frustration or ignorance. The word can be triggering and is offensive, as it has been used to express hatred. There are also offensive terms in Spanish and English too commonly used in our county about and among our Latino community that should not be used in our school or when getting to know new students.
Our words among each other should help us bridge gaps, not expand them.
Inclusivity is more than an educational buzzword. It is a core value in our county. Please don’t let the national election results pause, dampen, or change the direction that we SAIL in our community. Our students have created more than 50 clubs that connect to their
passion and interest, including Anchored in Christ, Aptos for Africa, Robotics, Fashion, Migrant Student Association, Rainbow Alliance, Youth for Environmental Action, and Poppy’s Poets. Let’s celebrate and honor all of us.
Our strength is our diversity. We as Aptos (and Watsonville, Corralitos, Soquel, Pajaro, etc) respect one another and our different views. Results from a national election should not change the pride and love that we have for one another in our community.
We value inclusivity and restorative practices to help our students (and staff) discuss and resolve challenges. Our schools have systems to support our families and students, each and every day, too. Please reach out to any school staff when there are challenges, as we are here to support you and our students as we SAIL together. It’s always a great time to be a Mariner. n
Aptos Girls Tennis: Perfect!
By Tammi Brown
Aptos High Girls Tennis had an amazing season, securing the 2024 SCCAL League Title with a perfect 10-0 League record!
We had nine returning players this year including Team Captain Aviana Andrews, a senior who was an undefeated force at number two singles. This was Avi’s third year with the team, following up her 2023 MVP undefeated season at number four singles.
Freshman Kiana Safari was new to the team but stepped right into the number one singles position like she’d been with us for years. Kiana never dropped a set in League matches, she had an amazing win-loss record of 78-6 in games played.
Three-year veteran Coral Collins, a junior, had another great competitive season, anchoring the team at number three singles and helping us secure wins in several pivotal matches.
Our “Team of 13” loves to play tennis and is constantly improving, giving us strength in both singles and doubles. This dedication is evident
in our 66-4 individual match count in League matches. We are a tennis family, supporting and encouraging each other every day.
Four Aptos players made it into the finals of the SCCAL Singles and Doubles Tournament on Nov. 6.
Kiana Safari (#1 seed) and Aviana Andrews (#3 seed) played each other in the singles final with Kiana taking the match. Coral Collins and Isabella Calderon (seeded #3) played in the doubles finals and were defeated by a very strong pair from Scotts Valley, Sofia Niklaus and Erin Szymanski (seeded #1).
Aptos plays Stevenson School in Pebble Beach in the first round of the CCS Tournament on Nov. 12 and Kiana Safari will represent the SCCAL in the CCS Singles Tournament at Bay Club Courtside in Los Gatos on Nov. 18.
It’s been an awesome season with a wonderful group of players and I’ve loved every minute of it. n
Tammi Brown is head coach of the Aptos High School girls tennis team.
BACK ROW (from left): Isabella Calderon, Natalia Calderon, Julia Blevins, Kiana Safari, Sadie Chapman, Coral Collins, Neci Hoeptner, Charlotte Long, Gia Arista FRONT ROW (from left): Head Coach Tammi Brown, Finn Gansaeuer Pilcher, Gamble Kellermyer, Team Captain Aviana Andrews, Aracely Ritchie, Assistant Coach Sam Brown.
Aptos
Real Estate Update
Ruth Bates
831.359.2212
ruthbates1@gmail.com
CalBRE#01799929
LOWEST VOLUME OF HOMES SOLD SINCE 1995
“2024 will register the lowest volume of home sales since 1995, due to the combination of higher interest rates, record high prices, weak inventory in many areas, and the lock-in effect of the low mortgage rates that most of us took during Covid days. This “lock-in” effect has prevented the sale of an estimated 1.33 million homes in the US.” (Market Watch)
APTOS SOLD (PAST 30 DAYS)
18 homes sold, AVG DOM = 56 days, AVG Sales Price (SP) = $2,355,188. High sale was 369 Beach Drive - $3,900,000 – 137 days on market (DOM). Low sale was 120 Sand Hill - $1,325,000 – 3 bed/3bath/2023 SF on 1.2 acres, 86 DOM. Also sold: 1695 Aptos Creek Rd - $3,851,000, 340 Beach Drive - $3,250,000, 702 Vista Del Mar - $2,895,000, 627 Seacliff - $2,850,000, 3030 Pleasant Valley$2,790,000, 2947 Pleasant Valley - $2,562,500, 325 Kingsbury - $2,500,000, 3684 Misty Lane - $2,450,000, 332 Palmer - $1,995,000, 810 Seacliff - $1,898,888, 140 Greenbrier$1,895,000, 1730 Jennifer - $1,750,000, 622 Cliff - $1,600,000, 206 Lake - $1500,000. 4 condos sold – AVG SP = $894,000. 6 Townhomes sold, AVG DP = $1,023,000.
APTOS ACTIVE — 48 homes are for sale as of 11/08/24. Average DOM = 68. Median List Price (LP) is $1,797,450. Near the Median are: 206 Via Novella – LP $1,875,000 – 145 DOM, 181 Thunderbird – LP $1,799,000 – 36 DOM, 531 Santa Marguarita – LP $1,795,000 – 29 DOM, 105 Granada – LP $1,725,000 – 18 DOM, 509 Woodhaven – LP $1,698,000 – 51 DOM, 534 Robin – LP$1,595,000- 26 DOM, 3177 W Ledyard – LP $1,595,000 – 86 DOM. Four Condos and 7 townhomes are for sale. High list is 123 Marina – 175 DOM – asking $1,299,000. Low list is 6030 Soquel – 55 DOM - asking $595,000.
ECONOMY — “Most leaders from around the world would trade their economies for the US’s in a heartbeat. Through the second quarter, the U.S. grew 3%; In the third quarter it grew at 2.8%. None of the world’s next 6 largest advanced economies grew more than 1%. Even China is struggling. European Union companies still pay 2-3 times more for electricity and 4-5 times more for natural gas than their U.S. counterparts.” (WSJ)
MORTGAGE RATES — “Mortgage rates will remain above 6% throughout 2025. Elevated rates will lead to fewer sales”. (Goldman Sachs). Note: Local Buyer rate quoted as of 11/06/24 = 6.683%. National Avg = 7.13%
Call, email, text anytime and Get Results With Ruth!
Mesmerized by Monarchs
On a recent day, curious first graders from Mount Madonna School followed the “Monarch Trail,” an elevated, wooden path at Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz that leads to a small viewing deck. There, surrounded by a grove of towering eucalyptus trees, their faces turned upward in awe, mesmerized by the abundant clusters of Monarch butterflies holding fast to tree branches and flying all around them.
Their visit was part of their school life science study, bringing classroom lessons alive.
“Mount Madonna first graders are studying native California endangered animals and what we can do to protect them,” said teacher Rochelle Saxton. “There are a
couple of butterfly species native to California and categorized as endangered. Some of these are endangered because of habitat destruction and humans consuming more than what they need. As a class, we have been talking about things we can do to help butterflies to thrive.”
The tour of the grove was much anticipated.
“It was a really wonderful day,” said Saxton. “Students learned about the Monarchs’ dwindling population, how they migrate to escape the winter cold in Santa Cruz’s milder climate and what people can do to support conservation efforts.”
Saxon said the Natural Bridges park docent also discussed the important role butterflies play in gardens, the pollination process and why it is important for humans.
“This was really great because we are talking about how our interactions lead to consequences in our environment,” said Saxton. “It really helped students understand the impact their choices have on not only butterflies, but us too!”
The Mount Madonna School program allows for an abundance of off-campus learning journeys each year for all grade levels, preschool through high school, to support and enhance the classroom curriculum.
“There is nothing like walking through a Monarch grove and marveling at the colorful and fragile beauty,” Saxton said. “Seeing their vibrant colors up close and watching how the light touched their wings – it was magical from the students’ perspective. Being in nature and seeing butterflies up close and in person, helps foster students’ curiosity and wonder about the natural world. I’m hoping it will inspire and motive these children to become environmental stewards of the future.” n
Campaign for Farmworker Opportunity Center
Agriculture and Land-Based Training Association, known as ALBA, announces plans to open the Farmworker Opportunity Center, a project designed to equip Latino farmworkers with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed as independent organic farmers or to pursue careers in sustainable agriculture.
ALBA, based in Salinas, has secured 20% of the funding for the Farmworker Opportunity Center, estimated to cost $2 million, and is now appealing to community members, businesses, and philanthropic partners for the remainder.
The goal is to create a beacon of opportunity via land-based training in organic farm management and agricultural advancement, with the mission to lift families out of poverty and build a brighter future for our communities.
Every day, dedicated farmworkers toil in the fields, often earning only $30,000 per year with limited opportunities to advance. ALBA envisions a path where talented and hardworking individuals can transition to economic independence.
The Farmworker Opportunity Center will provide:
• Land-Based Training: Practical, on-site training covering essential aspects of organic farm management.
• Business Development Resources: Training in business planning, finance, and marketing transitioning from field work to farm ownership, including
• Expanded Facilities: State-of-the-art classrooms and workspaces, “ALBA sees the talent, resilience, and dedication of these farmworkers,” said
Patricia Carrillo, executive director of ALBA. “Through this project, we’re creating a pathway to independence for people who want to achieve their farming dreams and lift their families from poverty. This is more than a building — it’s a bridge to opportunity.” n
You can join ALBA in building this transformative center. Donations can be made at https:// www.albafarmers.org/donate/
Robert Siegel, MD, Ph.D., Stanford University
Robert Siegel, MD, Ph.D., Stanford University
Courtesy of Mount Madonna School
Deborah Cypert Owner Bobbie Frandeen CoOwner/Estimator Todd Ivy Sales/Estimator
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Does Your Home Have Defensible Space?
From their experience with California wildfires, Cal Fire recommends homeowners create defensible space as a buffer to protect your home from embers, flames, or heat.
Have you created defensible space in the past couple years? Please share your solutions with your neighbors. Email a photo, a description of what you did and what you paid to Editor Jondi Gumz at info@cybertimes.com.
Here are the guidelines and regulations from www.readyforwildfire.gov:
Zone 0 – Ember Resistant, 5 feet from the house, garage and deck
While not legally required yet, Zone 0 is key for wildfire defense and preventing fires from spreading to your home.
Here are the current guidelines:
• Use gravel, pavers, or concrete instead of combustible mulch
• Clear dead weeds, grass, and debris; check roofs, gutters, and outdoor areas
• Keep branches trimmed 10 feet away from chimneys and stovepipes
• Minimize combustible items like furniture and planters on decks
• Move firewood and lumber to Zone 2 for safety
• Replace combustible fencing and gates with fire-resistant materials
• Shift garbage and recycling containers to a safer area outside this zone
• Relocate boats, RVs, and vehicles away from this zone to reduce fire risks Zone 1 – Lean, Clean, & Green, extends 30 feet from home, garage and decks or to your property line, whichever is closer.
• Clear all dead plants, grass, and weeds
• Remove dead leaves and pine needles from your yard, roof, and gutters
• Trim overhanging branches and keep them 10 feet from your chimney
• Regularly trim trees to maintain a 10-foot gap from others
• Move wood piles to Zone 2
• Prune flammable plants and shrubs near windows
• Clear flammable vegetation and items from under decks, balconies, and stairs
• Maintain space between trees, shrubs, and flammable items like patio furniture and wood piles
• Ensure outbuildings and LPG tanks have 10 feet of clear space to bare soil and no flammable vegetation within an additional 10 feet around them
Zone 2 – Reduce Fuel, extends from 30 feet to 100 feet from your home, garage, deck, or to your property line, whichever is closer.
• Trim annual grass to a maximum height of 4 inches
• Space out shrubs and trees horizontally
• Ensure vertical spacing between grass, shrubs, and trees. A 5-foot shrub near a tree needs 15 feet of clearance to the tree’s lowest branch.
• Remove fallen leaves, needles, and small branches, but can leave up to 3 inches
• Keep exposed wood piles at least 10 feet clear from surroundings, down to the soil
• Ensure outbuildings and LPG tanks have 10 feet of clear space to bare soil and no flammable vegetation within an additional 10 feet around them n
Cabrillo College Receives $150,000 for Veterans Mental Health
On Nov. 8, Cabrillo College announced a $150,000 grant to implement the Veterans Mental Health Demonstration Project, starting this month.
The two-year grant is one of 10 awarded by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office.
The grant funding will help to establish and increase local, regional, and statewide partnerships to expand campus support, resources, and enrollment for transitioning military service members, prioritizing mental health services.
The grant funding will also help facilitate professional development opportunities to educate campus faculty and staff on the needs of student military service members, providing trauma-informed approaches and regional resources to foster a campus of visible allies that supports and promotes the overall success of veterans and service members.
At Cabrillo, this would be a VET NET Ally training program, offered at Cabrillo’s Veterans Information Center as a faculty and staff awareness program to expand campuswide allyship around the needs and concerns of military veterans.
veterans mental health resources and support off campus and in the local community.
Among others, these local partnerships would include the Santa Cruz Veterans Center, as well as Veterans Centers at CSU Monterey Bay and UC Santa Cruz to provide a clear transfer pathway for transitioning military service members.
Funding from the grant would also help expand mental health counseling at Cabrillo for veterans and would provide more organic opportunities for Cabrillo student veterans to engage in holistic health and well-being practices such as art therapy, stress management, and mental health first aid training.
“Cabrillo’s Veterans Information Center has been recognized statewide as a model for providing wraparound services and resources to student veterans,” said Matt Wetstein, Cabrillo College president and superintendent.
“With this grant, we’re able to expand the Cabrillo College Veterans Information Center’s commitment to veterans’ mental health and overall well-being, ensuring they have access to essential support and resources, said Dr. Devin Walker, Cabrillo College director of student success and equity.
The grant will enable the development of peer-to-peer student veteran networks and programs.
It would provide funding for student wellness ambassadors through Cabrillo’s Student Health Services department and would aid in the creation of external partnerships with local veteran agencies, to extend the
“We are thrilled and extremely grateful to receive this grant to support our veterans,” said Juan Diego (J.D.) Alvarez, Cabrillo College veteran programs coordinator. “This grant is a game-changer.” n
•••
Learn more at https://www.cabrillo.edu/ veteran-information-center/
Freedom Lake Restoration to Begin
On Oct. 30, Santa Cruz County Parks and Supervisor Zach Friend announced a collaborative initiative to restore and maintain Freedom Lake by removing invasive and non-native vegetation species that have overgrown.
This partnership aims to enhance the ecological health of the surrounding lake area and limited access to the lakeshore.
Freedom Lake, cherished by wildlife and the community, is off Freedom Boulevard about a half-mile from the Cadillac Café. The overgrowth of non-naïve plants have limited access to the lakeshore and diminished water quality.
In upcoming months, teams from Watsonville Wetlands Watch and the California
Conservation Corps will work side by side to identify and remove these invasive species, with the longer-term objective of lake water restoration.
“Freedom Lake is one of the most bucolic settings in our area and restoration is an important for gift for our community,” Santa Cruz County Supervisor Zach Friend said.
“With support from Supervisor Friend and his staff, and our partnership with Watsonville Wetlands Watch, the renewal of Freedom Lake is becoming a reality,” said Rebecca Hurley, deputy director of Santa Cruz County Parks.
“Freedom Lake” page 27
Juan Diego Alvarez
for Animals
County Recommends $3.44 Million for 28 Programs
By Jondi Gumz
Reviewing how to invest $3+ million in community well-being for next three years, Santa Cruz County supervisors shifted their focus from eight to four priorities — Lifelong Learning, Older Adults and Children, Stable Affordable Housing & Shelter and Healthy Environments — and are poised to vote $3.44 million in funding for 28 programs on Tuesday, Nov. 19.
More than 50% of the funding is to be directed to services for South County residents, who have historically seen less investment than North County.
Alcance program at Luna Y Sol to encourage 60 youth to create a relationship with a caring adult.
Another $1.5 million is to be dedicated to providing shelter and helping resolve housing insecurity for residents, including in South County, where homelessness rose 60% in a year, with awards to be made later.
And $1 million is to be set aside to address emerging needs and proposals not otherwise recommended for awards.
The full list of recommendations is at https://tinyurl.com/SCC-programrecommend-2024.
The funding process, known as CORE (Collective of Results and Evidence-Based) Investments, is competitive and done in concert with the City of Santa Cruz.
The largest award, $500,000, is earmarked for Ventures Semillitas College Saving Accounts, providing seed deposits and milestone contribution opportunities for children from working-class households.
Here are 13 more:
Dignity Health Dominican Hospital: $324,356 to provide exercise, education, and support for seniors and people with disabilities.
Community Bridges, $247,500 for its Family Resource Centers to prevent childhood adversity
Encompass: $240,765 for new youth peer mentors in the behavioral health and outpatient substance abuse programs.
Community Bridges: $200,000 for Elderday, the free program for low-income adults.
Eat for the Earth, Salud en Plate: $150,000 for a 2-week immersion in a whole-food plant-based diet through education, practical support, and mentoring for Latinos with chronic disease.
Salud Para La Gente: $150,000 for a screening program for youth newborn to age 24.
Community Action Board: $150,000 for the Youth Homeless Response Team.
Community Action Board: $150,000 the
Jacob’s Heart: $149,227 for support services for 122 children with cancer and 522 siblings and family members in Santa Cruz County.
County Park Friends: $121,074 for Park Rx, in which trained providers screen patients for eligibility and prescribe ParkRx when indicated.
Boys and Girls Club: $115,000 for a behavior specialist for 120 children in theSmart Moves Program.
CASA: $99,316 to train volunteers to mentor and advocate for children under court jurisdiction due to abuse or neglect.
Black Surf Santa Cruz: $86,870 for an ocean program for beginners and single-day community surf lessons.
County spokesman Jason Hoppin said, “Together, the awards will advance the health and well-being of 10,000 county residents by assisting older adults, children and families; promoting lifelong learning and education and protecting the environment.”
He added that the share of funding recommended for seniors programming will remain proportionally similar to the prior three years.
About 100 applications were submitted, seeking more than $15 million.
Among those not funded: Digital Nest, free tech training for Latino youth, Your Future is Our Business career exploration project for teens, Mariposa Arts, artists mentor high school students who deliver culturally relevant arts lessons in afterschool programs at 15+ PVUSD schools, United Way Cradle to Career, providing students in marginalized communities with educational support, Santa Cruz Mountains Trails Stewardship summer trail program for youth 18-27, Community Action Board Floreciendo en Comunidad supporting indigenous speakers who are community health workers. “County Investments” page 27
Live Oak Library Annex Open House
Santa Cruz Public Libraries announces an open house 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23 for the newly built Live Oak Library Annex next to the Simpkins Family Swim Center, 979 17th Ave.
Library staff invite the community to visit the $4.8 million space championed by former county supervisor John Leopold and learn more about services available.
This celebration will include face-painting, a dance performance by Grupo Folklórico Los Mejicas and highlights of Santa Cruz Public Library resources offered at the 10 branches.
The Annex is an extension of the resources that the Live Oak Branch Library provides.
With Santa Cruz County Parks, the Annex primarily is a space for programs and quiet study. Library services include a small collection of about 500 books for children and teens. Patrons will soon be able to place holds on books for pickup at the Annex.
The Santa Cruz Public Libraries outreach team will visit the Annex twice a week and the Annex will have a permanent book return drop box.
Given its strategic location in the vicinity of Shoreline Middle School, Del Mar Elementary, Live Oak Elementary, and next to the Boys and Girls Club, it provides a convenient third place for the Live Oak students to study and do homework. n
For information on programs at the Live Oak Library Annex see https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/calendar
‘Tis the season to gather around the table and share our appreciation for one another. Reserve your Thanksgiving turkey and delicious housemade sides now through November 25 at newleaf.com/reserve.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
New School Lauded by Foundation
Each year, the California Environmental Education Foundation provides a monetary award to recognize one California student, educator, and administrator for their distinguished service and dedication in the form of projects, programs, or initiatives which advance excellence in environmental education.
This year, New School Community Day School in Watsonville, designed for students who may not graduate because they have lost credits at their high school, received the award in the administrator category for their Outdoor School & Character Development program.
New School students are participating in the 13th version of Outdoor School & Character Development, a program that combines field trips and community service learning projects to expose students to local environmental issues, organizations, partners and businesses.
By the end of this fall, nearly 400 students
will have taken part in New School’s Outdoor School & Character Development program since its inception in 2017, committing 2,000 hours of community service projects with 30 different community partners on 90 field trips.
The program shifts the perspectives of the majority of teens who participate, deepening their bonds with one another and their community while helping relieve the stress of their daily lives.
Students have shared that the program gives them hope.
“We’re thrilled to receive recognition from an organization like the CEEF for our Outdoor School & Character Development program because we believe more schools could be doing what we do!” said New School’s lead teacher Russell Bryan Love.
This fall, with the theme of Agriculture and Food Systems themed program, New School students have already visited Roaring Camp Railroad in Felton, hiked Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, toured Driscoll’s berry facilities and worked with FoodWhat?! at their UC Santa Cruz farm Harvest Festival.
Next up are experiential visits to Esperanza Community Farms, a neighborhood cleanup and school garden day, Second Harvest Food Bank, and Pinto Lake.
Students who meet all expectations for these first seven field trips get to go on the program’s incentive trip to California’s Great America Winterfest just before school lets out for winter break.
Watsonville High School biology teacher Satina Ciandro, was recognized by the CEEF in this year’s educator category.
Through her long-standing work with the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Satina and her students participate in the aquarium’s Ocean Plastics Pollution Summit and Climate Action Projects Summit. She became a lead teacher in the Watsonville Area Teens Conserving Habitats (WATCH) program. Through WATCH,
students spent the summer exploring the Pajaro River Watershed, meeting with local scientists and participating in inquiry-based learning. Students also learned about environmental issues in their community and participate in local restoration efforts.
In the fall, the same students enrolled in a WATCH Honors Biology class with Satina and developed their own field research project based on an environmental topic. They worked with Aquarium staff and teachers, as well as scientists and educators from the community to complete their projects. Upon completion of the projects, students received a scholarship and community service hours required for graduation. Satina has observed
students’ growing commitment to environmental issues, especially after terrible flooding in the Pajaro area.
She is advisor of the SAVE club which raises awareness about local environmental concerns and are changing the waste management system at their school to include composting. She also serves on the district Green Team and has helped convince the superintendent to set a goal of Green Business Certification for every school in the district. n
Both New School and Watsonville High School are part of the Pajaro Valley Unified School District.
Youth Scholarships: Can You Help?
CBy Tricia Wiltshire
ounty Park Friends is raising $30,000 in access scholarships to support active and healthy lifestyles for local youth. They need your help!
“Parks have the ability to transform lives but the reality is that even some low-cost fees can provide barriers to access for local families. This effort by County Park Friends can help break down those barriers so local kids can have access to the camps, facilities and experiences that our local parks system provides,” said Supervisor Zach Friend.
local residents can help County Park Friends raise $30,000 for scholarships by December 2024. Donations can be made at countyparkfriends.org
Help Kids Play Scholarships cover those fees for qualified youth. Through tax-deductible donations,
“Applications for Access Grants open to the public in February and March each year, and last year’s interest exceeded available funding,” said Mariah Roberts, executive director. County Park Friends previously awarded Access Grant Scholarships to 140 youth from 104 eligible families, including 89 awards for County Parks’ Learn to Swim Program and 24 awards for a full session of Pool Guards. Other awards covered sports, nature or other programming offered by Santa Cruz County Parks. n
New School’s Outdoor School & Character Development staff.
Satina Ciandro
Photo Credit: County Park Friends
Survival Guide: Trekking through Airports
Don’t forget to pack your hiking shoes this holiday travel season, because you’re going to need them more than ever.
It’s a long walk through the airport — a long, long walk.
Dave Dzurick spent almost an hour trekking through Seattle’s terminals when he arrived from Canada recently. First, there was an extended walk to customs, then another hike to the TSA screening area, and then another march to his connecting gate.
“It was a nightmare,” says Dzurick, a retired broadcast engineer from Tucson, Ariz. His problem is becoming more common. Just look at the newest airport terminals opening in Dubai, New York or Los Angeles, and you’ll see that almost no effort has been made to shorten the walk to the gate. If anything, it takes longer to get to the plane.
But these aren’t the worst offenders when it comes to walking times from check-in to your gate. A recent survey by Kuru Footwear found that Dallas had the longest walks among large domestic airports (2.16 miles) followed by Washington, D.C. (1.62 miles) and Houston (1.52 miles).
“Many large airports across the country continue to expand and build new terminals,” notes Victoria Schmid, a spokeswoman for Kuru.
amount of walking time. Still, the newest airport terminals aren’t exactly getting any smaller.
The problem may be worse overseas. Claire Ramsdell recently made a connection at Istanbul Airport, which features a gleaming new terminal that stretches over 77 million square feet, and thought she wouldn’t make it.
“When I got off the plane I ran full speed to the other gate,” remembers Ramsell, a photographer and frequent traveler. “I had to stop to go through security halfway through. I went down a long never-ending hallway, through security, took an elevator down a floor, ran down a long hallway again, then ran up some stairs, across that floor, and then down another staircase.”
She made her flight after finding a faster security line specifically for international-todomestic transfers.
I’ve had the same problem in Istanbul — a ridiculously long walk between gates and that sinking feeling that I wouldn’t make it to my next flight. But somehow, I always did.
Your Next Flight
If you want a short walk to the terminal, try a smaller airport like Lexington, Ky., where it’s just a hop, skip and a jump to the gates.
But does it really take longer to get to the gate, or is it your imagination? And how will these distances affect your next trip? As someone who practically lives in an airport terminal, I have the answer to all these questions. Plus, I’ll tell you how to survive your next airport adventure.
Farther to the Gate?
I couldn’t find any recent scientific studies on how far passengers have to walk, or if they have to walk farther now than before. But it sure feels that way. In fairness, some large airports have added new trains that significantly reduce the
I’ve been traveling almost nonstop for the last eight years, but for the last few years, I’ve carefully tracked my steps on my Google Watch. On a travel day, I’m always worried that I won’t get enough exercise — I try to walk at least 20,000 steps a day.
But lately, when I fly, I always get plenty of steps. Enormous airports like Doha, Frankfurt and London always give me enough opportunity to walk, whether I want to or not.
For someone like me who wants to stretch his legs, the long walk isn’t really a problem. But a few years ago, after I broke my pelvis in a horrific ski accident, these long walks seemed like an insurmountable obstacle because I was hobbling slowly on crutches and with luggage.
I have readers who are in the same situation. They love to travel, but the walk to the gate is almost too much. It seems like the architects who built these terminals didn’t give a thought to the 12 percent of Americans with mobility impairments.
Elliott’s tips
This holiday travel season, maybe you’ll have to endure a forced march to the gate. But there are ways to make it easier.
Go light. The worst thing you can do is weigh yourself down with a heavy backpack or overloaded carry-on luggage. Pack light to ensure a stress-free walk to your gate.
Grab a comfortable pair of shoes. “Wear comfortable footwear,” advises Schmid, the Kuru spokeswoman. “Large airports
By Christopher Elliott
require a lot of walking and standing, and it’s important for your foot health, and overall health, to ensure you have supportive and well-fitting shoes.”
Get informed. Airport signage can be confusing, and in the heat of the moment, you can easily make a turn and head in the
wrong direction. Most big airports have an app or a website with a terminal map. (Oh, I know, your family will call you a nerd for downloading it, but they will also thank you when you get to the gate on time.)
“Trekking” page 27
A Meeting of Soulmates
The following is excerpted from the new book by Joyce and Barry Vissell, A Couple of Miracles: One Couple, More than a Few Miracles.
As a first-year college student at Hartwick College in Oneonta, New York, I tried, for a few months anyway, to be the person I thought I should be. I fell in with Alpha Delta Omega fraternity which, at the time, had a reputation of being the “partying” fraternity. I tried to convince myself that “sophisticated” girls were the ones to date. The word in 1964 was “cool,” as in **West Side Story**.
I saw Joyce for the first time at a soccer game on a very cold day later that fall. I was sitting on the bleachers with some of my “cool” dorm buddies. I was in college now, and I wanted to show everyone that I was an adult. That meant controlled laughter … not too loud … and controlled body movements … never anything that could be judged as childish. After all, I was 18 years old and all grown up.
There was a loud outburst of almost hysterical laughter a few rows above me. I turned to see who could be making such an immature display of emotion. It was an attractive female freshman with large blue-green captivating eyes, sitting with her friends and laughing the “wrong” way … way too loud, uncontrolled, obviously immature, and worst of all, not caring at all what people must be thinking of her — in other words, “not cool.” How dare she act so childish!
But I couldn’t stop looking at her. My mind was repelled by her, but my heart, which I scarcely understood at the time, was irresistibly attracted to her. I was having
By Barry and Joyce Vissell
minimal fun. Joyce was having all the fun she wanted. I was dampening my joy. Joyce was freeing hers, living up to her name. I was hiding my childlikeness. Joyce was in no hurry to grow up, exuberant in her innocence.
I forced myself to look back at the soccer game, but my curiosity overwhelmed me. I kept sneaking glances over my shoulder. Who was this girl who cared so little about being cool? She was simply allowing herself to have an outrageously good time. Her joy was innocently and unselfconsciously bubbling over. I, on the other hand, was caught in a world of social conformity, a world of play-acting to get the approval of others. I felt shame, then embarrassment, and looked away again. I had a feeling of insecurity deep inside me … that this girl would never willingly have much to do with me.
For the next several weeks, I tried to get the image of this girl out of my mind but I couldn’t. Then came the first snowstorm of the year. Someone in our boys’ dorm had the idea to attack the girls’ dorm and challenge the girls to a snowball fight. We bundled up and ran, whooping and hollering, across campus. Outside the girls’ dorm, we started throwing snowballs at the windows, and yelled out challenges. The girls wasted no time in hurriedly dressing and rushing out of the dorm to meet our challenge. I was ready with snowball in hand. I spotted a good target, a girl standing about a hundred feet away with her back to me. I launched my projectile with the practiced arm of a baseball player, then watched in horror as the girl turned around. Almost in slow motion, and helpless to stop the arcing trajectory, I watched the snowball heading right for her face, and recognized the face. It was the girl from the soccer game, the girl I felt so attracted to, and so conflicted about.
boldness. I was deeply impressed, and I still didn’t even know her name.
A short time later, I applied at the school cafeteria for a job as student-waiter to help with college expenses. Dinners were a bit of a formal affair, with sit-down dining for the students. The job paid a whole dollar an hour. For some reason, boys and girls were paired up to work as a team serving a row of tables. And who did I happen to be assigned with? You guessed it, Joyce. I was thrilled — and uncomfortable at the same time. I don’t think I ever felt quite that uncomfortable around a girl. Perhaps it was the combination of my profound attraction, bundled with my fear that she wouldn’t like me. And what if she found out that it was my snowball that hit her head?
Too late, I saw the snowball smash into the middle of her head. I heard her startled scream. For a moment, I didn’t know if she was hurt. And I didn’t dare announce my guilt. Suddenly, she burst out laughing, bent over to grab a bunch of snow, and took off after some boys. They saw her racing toward them with such wild abandon that they turned and ran in fear. All I could do was gawk at her
Meanwhile, Joyce had noticed me almost from the beginning of the school year. She and her friends referred to me as “the boy who dressed weird.” You see, I had very little awareness of clothes. My mother had bought all my clothes and, to tell the truth, she had very poor taste in clothes. I guess I stood out from the crowd, but not in a good way. And that’s probably why Joyce had noticed me.
Now we worked together. And I wore a uniform as a waiter, so I suppose I looked better.
“Soulmates” page 26
Young Barry and Joyce
COMMUNITY NEWS
Graham Hill Road: 161 Homes Proposed
By Jondi Gumz
Mike Formico is taking advantage of the “builder’s remedy” to propose a subdivision of 161 homes and townhomes on his 40-acre horse pasture on Graham Hill Road from Lockwood Lane to Rollingwoods Drive.
He bought the rural property as four parcels in 2019 for $3.9 million from Richard Lam, whose father Arthur Lam, who owned a local market for 54 years and enjoyed farming as a hobby.
This location is zoned single-family rural residential, 20,000-square foot lot minimum.
Formico knows the property well as he lives on Graham Hill Road.
When a county does not have a stateapproved Housing Element, developers can tap into the Builder’s Remedy allowing projects with at least 20% affordable housing to bypass local zoning.
Graham Hill Road, once a toll road named for pioneer Isaac Graham, is four miles long between Santa Cruz and Felton, a beloved shortcut for residents in Scotts Valley.
The pasture, a long and narrow property along Graham Hill Road, has been used by the Santa Cruz County Horsemen’s Association, which owns the showgrounds on the other side of the road.
The development project, called The Haven, is proposed to be built on four parcels. According to the 65-page pre-application submitted to Santa Cruz County Planning, it would include:
• 117 market-rate single-family homes.
• 11 market-rate townhouses.
• 26 affordable townhouses for lowincome residents, limits set by state.
• 7 affordable townhouses for moderateincome residents.
• A clubhouse with post office boxes, health club, HOA office, and meeting room.
• Parking for 691 cars, 312 covered and 379 uncovered.
• 14.3 acres undeveloped and connected with existing hiking trails.
To the west is Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, known for hiking trails and horse trails.
The design of the homes would include Craftsman, farmhouse and bungalow.
Under the county zoning rules, this size of development on a two-lane county road would not be permitted, but the state Legislature has passed and Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a plethora of bills to make it easier for developers to build housing to address the shortage of housing statewide.
Santa Cruz County’s deadline for state Housing Element was Dec. 25, 2023.
That deadline was not met, opening the county up to the builder’s remedy.
Bryan Wenter, AICP, of Miller Starr Regalia, a law firm in Walnut Creek submitted a pre-application April 3, before the state approved the Housing Element, which mandates Santa Cruz County plan for 4,634 housing units by 2031.
In his letter, he wrote that the county could not deny the application based on zoning or the general plan.
He added that because 20% of the units will be affordable, the project is eligible for the state-offered density bonus, concessions and waivers of development and parking standards.
He also promised to submit a formal application within 180 days as required.
Under SB 330, declaring a statewide housing emergency and passed in 2019, housing project review requirements and timelines were changed through 2030.
The pre-application was submitted by Lance Tate, of Tate Development & Investment in Del Mar, which has completed projects in Cupertino, Hayward and San Jose. He’s an alum of Harker School, Menlo School and University of the Pacific.
Projects are subject to a maximum of five hearings before the county must act, according to Wenter.
An initial site assessment performed by Ecological Concerns identified 13 potential species of interest, according to the pre-application and an “Incidental Take Permit” is to be proposed as a mitigation.
Annexation Sought
I n July of this year, Formico applied to annex one parcel of pasture property into the San Lorenzo Valley Water District, the application indicating the purpose “is for the provision of water services to a future housing project.”
The application went to the Local Agency Formation Commission, which rules on annexation requests and requested feedback by Aug. 30.
“Graham Hill Housing” page 27
AUTUMN SPECIAL
If we paint your interior and/or exterior by December 31, 2024 we will
Famous Buildings
Mantram of Unification & the Scorpio Tests
Esoteric Astrology • Mid-November 2024 • By Risa
D’Angeles
The November 5th election, under the sign of Scorpio, was/is the most important event in the history of our country since its founding in 1776.
During Scorpio humanity is given Nine Tests (physical, emotional and mental). The November 5, 2024 vote and the election were part of the testing. As for the outcome of the election, we are now in a time of transition — the light seeking to emerge from the last many years of darkness (Ray 4 of Scorpio).
The Scorpio tests this year will last until January 6 (presidential confirmation) and then ‘til January 20 (inauguration day, Uranus at the midheaven), then through May 2025 (after the multiple retrogrades). How do we work with the tests? We are to examine our behaviors, cultivate virtues, know and identify our true nature (spirits). And then become harmonizers and unifiers in the world, responding to the needs of humanity after the election.
mantram daily for humanity’s unification and well-being. Join us, everyone.
“The sons and daughters of men (thinking ones) are One and we are one with them. We seek to love, not hate; We seek to serve and not exact due service; We seek to heal, not hurt. Let pain bring due reward of light and love. Let the soul control the outer form, and life and all events And bring to light the love that underlies the happenings of the time. Let vision come and insight. Let the future stand revealed. Let inner union demonstrate and outer cleavages be gone. Let love prevail. Let all of humanity love.”
As we experience the Scorpio tests, we are to create the new reality which is unification within ourselves and then with the world around us. This foreshadows the golden age of Aquarius (beginning when Pluto enters Aquarius, November 19th).
“Soulmates” from page 24
I asked Joyce out, a bit awkwardly I remember, for the following Friday night. She said yes, and inwardly I rejoiced. So far, so good.
I took her to see the movie, Tom Jones. I actually have no memory of what the movie was about. I felt so attracted to this girl, Joyce. Sitting next to her in the movie theater, all I wanted to do was hold her hand. I gingerly reached my hand toward hers. When it touched her hand, she made my life so much better by opening her hand and taking mine. A joy filled my heart, just holding her hand for the rest of the movie, whatever it was about.
I am posting therefore the Mantram of Unification. The New Group of World Servers, men and women of Goodwill recite this
ARIES
So many questions are being posed now. How to be a harmonizer, how to unify, how to accelerate kindness and care for others. Also, how to more fully secure finances and resources and also stabilize relationships? These questions you ponder the next several months. Some answers. Maintain necessary confidentiality yet be very truthful with those you trust. Pay bills, organize and safeguard important papers, tend to long forgotten needs, and allow no alienation to occur.
TAURUS
Important tasks, set aside for months, now need assessing, doing, completing. These include deep cleaning, eliminating what is no longer needed, home repairs, ordering supplies, licensing, commitments, and something concerning marriage. Deep emotions emerge resulting from the Scorpio tests. They occur in your relationships. Partnerships need listening to and working through issues. Sit down together and talk with each other. From heart to heart.
GEMINI
The nine tests reveal themselves in your day to day life and then dip into your creativity and play. Observe how this manifests, shifting back and forth, here and there. Simultaneously, assist others as their needs present themselves, fulfill more tasks at home, maintain better health, volunteer, floss more carefully, act as if you are beloved, and communicate with love as if the creation of the world depends upon it. It does.
CANCER
You might feel restricted, lost, alone and wandering far away from others, especially home and family. You may feel you are stretched in four directions, experiencing a loss of nurturance, financial fears, and unusual dreams intruding into reality. “What’s truth and what’s reality?” you ask. So this is all about the tests and you remember to step back and observe. And to envision more of a golden age.
Scorpio carries the test of Right Choice down into the physical plane, and then, when the tests are faced and handled rightly, the reasoning mind solves the problems, and our lives are carried up to the stars and into the heavens. n
LEO
You may be concerned about money — lack or loss of it, loss of expectations or a job, of not receiving your share in a family legacy or will, or not knowing how to pay a bill or how to put enough away to purchase something important. You hide away in your home often, then enfolded in shadows, step out into the world while hiding possible grief. Take Ignatia Amara if grief persists. Death could be on your mind. Death is liberation. You are sensitive. Take care to protect yourself. Stand in the double pyramid.
VIRGO
A quiet, poised, calm frame of mind is what you need and with the Jupiter retro in Gemini and Scorpio Sun influencing communication, it is interesting you may be talking more. I know that sounds like a paradox. Careful that you don’t allow the critical nature of Mercury, Virgo, and Scorpio to take hold. Attempt to pass the Nine Tests with equanimity. Then assist others by holding the light of the Soul, your Soul, and the Soul of humanity within your heart. Always use your imagination. That is our spiritual creative tool.
LIBRA
It’s good to review all monetary interactions — bills, loans and tithes — in order to carefully assess finances for the next three months. This is a good exercise to do several times a year. You’ll discover actually that life is generous. In turn, you are to be generous, too. Give to (tithe) those in need. Do this scientifically. A bit each month. Financial differences could occur between friends, family and in relationships. Stand your ground, explain if needed. Then share more.
SCORPIO
The tests for you center on the quality and nature and realization of your self-identity. You are to observe through the lens of who you think you are, who you used to be, who you want to be and who you really are now and in the future. All this takes time. This is not to be confusing. It’s to be clarifying, especially since the tests are made especially for Scorpios. Why? Because Scorpio is the sign of discipleship. Watch your communication, of course. You know why, don’t you?
SAGITTARIUS
How you observe and tend to the Nine Tests will determine what your next goals will be. So tend carefully to the physical, emotional and lower mental tests as they appear. Be observant so you can recognize them. They will appear even in dreams, at odd times day or night, when you’re about to fall asleep and in between thoughts, ideas and words on a page. Information is available through this testing experience. Keep your eyes wide open. Not eyes wide shut.
CAPRICORN
Dearest Capricorn, always moving upward and onward. The tests, none of which limit you, will occur in the groups you interact with. They will be such that at first you won’t understand, but then through interactions, a transformation occurs within you. What, the nine tests will ask — what are your most important hopes, wishes and dreams for the future? Write down on a notecard, what I want the most and hold it close to your heart. You lead everyone to their destined purpose and goals.
AQUARIUS
Your work life is changing. If you are a writer, photographer, or artist the nine tests will emerge in your work world and present challenges. Embrace them. They are teachings. How to use the tests is to portray the hidden realities of life through the medium of your art. Make wherever you are feel like home. Host a home party. Use your artforms to write about, describe, and film what home means to you. This will anchor others into their own foundational sense of being.
PISCES
The world is quietly listening to you, your words, writings, teachings, ways of being. Make sure what you say contains words concerning beauty and the beloved. Write and speak as if you hold the world in your hands. Any and all movements you make, shift the reality and focus to the needs of humanity. What am I saying? That every action you make affects the outcome of all of humanity and also of all kingdoms. You are like a butterfly in the meadows. The fluttering and lifting of its wings, lifts the world to new heights. This is your power.
Then we walked up the hill to the campus in a frigid early December Catskill Mountain’s evening. I wanted to continue holding her hand forever, but it was just too cold. We needed our hands in our own pockets to keep them warm.
We approached Joyce’s dorm, Dewer Hall. There was a 10 o’clock curfew and it was approaching that time. Other couples were converging on the dorm at the same time from their dates. We squeezed into the small entry room minutes before 10. The other couples were saying good-bye to one another. A small window framed the face of ancient Mrs. Wilcox, the dorm mother, who was probably in her 60s. She watched with hawk-like eyes to make sure all the couples were behaving appropriately.
With so little time, all I could do was say good-bye to Joyce with the briefest of kisses. I leaned forward and felt my lips lightly touch hers. It wasn’t passionate. Mrs. Wilcox, if she saw it, which she probably did, would have fully approved. What she didn’t see —-what she could never see —-was the transmission of energy between two souls at the speed of light.
One small kiss, but a powerful recognition of something very big, a love we did not yet realize but could feel clearly in that touch of lips.
We were lost and overwhelmed in that eternal moment, when the door suddenly opened and elderly hands started pulling Joyce away from me and into the dorm. I remember floating slightly above the frozen ground rather than walking back to my dorm. I had kissed a few girls before Joyce, but this was something else entirely. It was like waking up from an 18-year dream sleep. Neither of us had developed the framework for understanding what had happened in that moment. Our minds were both blown, but our hearts were starting to awaken. n •••
Joyce & Barry Vissell, a nurse/therapist and psychiatrist couple since 1964, are counselors in Aptos who are passionate about conscious relationship and personalspiritual growth. They are the authors of 10 books and a free audio album of sacred songs and chants. Visit their web site at SharedHeart.org.
Boardwalk Settles Lawsuit With Employees
$5.9
Million for Five Years of Underpayments
The Santa Cruz Seaside Company, owner and operator of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, will pay
$5.9 million to settle a class-action lawsuit alleging employees were cheated out of overtime pay and subjected to violations of California labor law, including being denied breaks.
“Trekking” from page 23
Give yourself time. Before you get ready for your trek through the terminal, make sure time is on your side. If you’re flying out of Dallas or one of the big airports in the Kuru survey, give yourself a minimum of an hour to get to your gate.
Get help. If you’re a slow walker or have an injury or disability, don’t hesitate to ask your airline or the airport for help. They have disability services that provide rides to help you avoid a lengthy walk. Note: You may need to contact your airline in advance to reserve a wheelchair.
But the best advice I’ve ever heard is to avoid the walk entirely. Book a nonstop flight to avoid transiting through Dallas or Denver. That way, you only have to worry about hiking to, and from, your arrival and departure gates once each.
If you have to book a connecting flight, make sure you have enough time to get to your next gate without running. And that’s particularly important during the winter travel season in the Northern Hemisphere, when everyone is weighed down with heavy winter clothing. It’s just not worth the trouble.
“State Results” from page 12
As part of the settlement agreement, preliminarily approved by the court in September, the Seaside Company officially denied any wrongdoing.
a seasonal food-service staff member at the boardwalk from August 2016 to December 2021, according to court documents.
A former employee, Serena Sanford, filed the lawsuit in July 2023 after working as
The Upside
In the end, walking long distances is part of travel, and maybe these sprawling airport terminals are doing many of us a favor. I mean, what else are we going to do, sit at home and watch reruns of our favorite travel show? Nah. Better to get out there and get some exercise
“We embrace the hike to the gate as good exercise on a travel day,” says Laurel Barton, a frequent traveler and guidebook author from Forest Grove, Ore.
She often flies through London’s massive Heathrow airport, and there’s a tunnel to the C Gates at Terminal 5 that takes about 20 minutes to walk.
“We skip the travelators and hoof it willingly,” she says. “But then, we write hiking guidebooks.” n
Christopher Elliott is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded Elliott Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes Elliott Confidential, a travel newsletter, and the Elliott Report, a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can email him at chris@elliott.org. Illustration by Aren Elliott. Graphic Credit: Kuru Footwear.
In the 18th Congressional District, which includes San Benito County and parts of Santa Clara County, Monterey County, and Santa Cruz County, Democrat Zoe Lofgren has 12,255 votes to 5,064 for Republican Peter Hernandez. In the race for U.S. Senate, Democrat Adam Schiff has 91,234 to 28,630 for Republican Steve Garvey.
“County Investments” from page 20
Previously there was an annual application process, and a steady stream of nonprofit leaders would show up at the Board of Supervisors meeting to make their case for funding for their operation.
That was a time-consuming process, and then-Supervisor Ryan Coonerty championed a different approach with more focus on results, addressing targeted needs and multiyear awards.
This time, in response to feedback, three public hearings were held as well as reviews, leading to three priority areas.
The supervisors added Healthy Environments as a priority.
In April, the county Board of Supervisors and Santa Cruz City Council directed staff to set aside $1 million to focus on shelter services across the county, and $500,000 in homeless prevention funds focused on South County.
The recommended awards represent the highest-ranked applications in each priority area as scored by a review panel. n
•••
For more information visit: https:// www.santacruzhumanservices.org/Home/ FundingOpportunities/COREInvestments
In the class-action lawsuit, Sanford accused the Seaside Company of failing to pay overtime wages, failing to provide meal
“Graham Hill Housing” from page 25 LAFCO administrator Joe Serrano said the parcel is in the San Lorenzo Valley Water District sphere of influence and within the county’s urban services line but missing are the filing fee, a map and “initial study” to assess significant impacts or an environmental impact review.
“Until I get those, I can’t deem application complete,” Serrano told Scotts Valley Times.
According to Gine Johnson, analyst in county Supervisor Bruce McPherson’s office, the Planning Department is reviewing the application and will render “an opinion to the applicant soon in writing.”
She added, “Unless the application meets basic thresholds regarding the zoning and other factors, which prior proposals for this property did not, the application will get its response from Planning but it’s unlikely to move forward unless those basic thresholds can be addressed sufficiently.”
In the race for president, Democrats Kamala Harris and Tim Walz have 93,226 to 25,881 for Republicans Donald Trump and JD Vance, who won the popular vote nationally and 312 votes from 31 states in the Electoral College to 226 for their opponents.
In the nonpartisan races, Watsonville City Council incumbent Jimmy Dutra has 1,121 votes to 914 for challenger Trina Coffman-Gomez.
“Freedom Lake” from page 19 Hurley continued: “Through this collaborative effort, we are not only improving the lake’s habitat but also providing the community with a great example of impactful restoration work.”
Habitat and biotic studies are set to commence in 2025 to assess the current
and rest breaks and failing to provide timely payment of wages upon termination of employment, among other “unfair business practices.”
No other employees who were alleged to have been affected by what Sanford alleges were specifically named in the lawsuit. n
If the developer completes an environmental review, that document would be posted on the website of the planning department, renamed Community Development and Infrastructure at https://cdi. santacruzcountyca.gov/UPC/GetInvolved/ PublicMeetingsHearings.aspx
The project goes to the County Planning Commission, which makes a recommendation to the County Board of Supervisors, which holds a public hearing. n
For two seats on the Capitola City Council, newcomer Gerry Jensen has 2,644 and newcomer Melinda Orbach has 2,208, ahead of incumbent Margaux Morgan with 1,493 and newcomer Enrique Dolmo Jr with 1,340.
Measure Z, the city of Santa Cruz tax on sugar-sweetened beverages, which needs a majority to pass, has13,899 yes — 51.6% — to 13,037 no 48.4%. More than 1,000 people did not vote. n
biodiversity of Freedom Lake and inform strategies for its total renovation. By understanding the existing ecological conditions, the team will be better equipped to implement restoration techniques that support the growth of native species and enhance the overall health of the lake water. n
For information visit the Santa Cruz County Parks website at www.scparks.com
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
ANNOUNCEMENTS
PVUSD EVENTS
“Fentanyl High”: Wednesday Nov. 20, 6–8 p.m. — Aptos High Hosts this event featuring a film by a recent Los Gatos graduate about fentanyl use among youth, followed by a panel discussion on community resources.
This free event aims to engage students and families and inspire similar initiatives locally. Space is limited; register at https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/ahspvusd/fentanyl-high
Gardenia Amor y Bienestar: Weekdays, 6 - 7 p.m., 85 Nielson St, Watsonville — Members of PVUSD engaged in promoting health and wellness, began this organization for women a few years ago.
They offer free, weekly classes — Tuesdays: Bootcamp; Thursdays: Boxing; Fridays: Zumba. Join them when you can.
CLOTHING DRIVE
The Salvation Army is collecting new jackets, sweaters, small blankets and underwear for the unhoused community. Also needed: new socks and rain ponchos.
The greatest need is for men’s clothes. The most popular sizes are large and XL.
Donations can be left at 214 Union St., Watsonville. For questions, call 724-3922 or email Daniel.villamar@usw. Salvationararmy.org
NAMI FAMILY SUPPORT GROUPS ON ZOOM
NAMI Family Support Group is a support group for loved ones of those who have experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Gain insight from the challenges and successes of others facing similar experiences.
By sharing your experiences in a safe setting, you can gain hope and develop supportive relationships. This group allows your voice to be heard and provides an opportunity for your personal needs to be met. It encourages empathy, productive discussion and a sense of community. You’ll benefit from other’s experiences, discover your inner strength and empower yourself by sharing your own experiences in a non-judgmental space.
NAMI’s support groups follow a structured model, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to be heard and to get what they need.
• Free to participants • Drop-in friendly
• Designed for loved ones of people with mental health conditions
• Led by family members of people with mental health conditions
• 90 minutes • Confidential
• No specific medical therapy or treatment is endorsed There are five different Family Support Groups: for loved ones of adults, loved ones of young adults, parents and caregivers of youth, and Spanish speakers.
Sign up at https://www.namiscc.org/nami-familysupport-groups.html
Questions? Email sophia@namiscc.org, or call (831)-824-0406.
APTOS LIBRARY ACTIVITIES
Mon-Thur: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. • Fri-Sat: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Closed Sunday • 7695 Soquel Drive, Aptos Sundays
First Sunday: ACT Advisory Council of Teens: 11 am to 1 pm Mondays Bridge Club, 10:30-noon, partnership with County Parks, except for Monday holidays
Writers Workshop, 1-3 p.m. 2nd & 4th Mondays
Tech Help in person, 1-3 p.m. weekly. Make an appointment (831-427-7713)
First Monday: SciFi Flicks, 6-8 p.m. Snacks provided. Scheduled movies for 2024:
November: Everything Everywhere All At Once December: Nightmare Before Christmas Tuesdays
Storytime for ages 3-5, 11-11:30 am weekly
Have a virtual or live event you want to promote?
E-mail info (no PDFs please) to info@cyber-times.com For beginning of the month, due the 15th • For mid-month, due the 1st
Aptos Youth Chess Club, 3:30-4:30 pm weekly
Wednesdays
First and Third Wednesdays: Pilates Classes: 12:30-1:30 p.m. (Bring your own yoga mat please) Programs are first come first serve, and beginner friendly. Minecraft for ages 8-18, 3:30-5:30 pm Thursdays
Tai Chi, 10-11 a.m. weekly
Mah Jongg 2-4 p.m. weekly
READ Help for Kids 3-5 p.m. weekly by appointment. Ages 6 to 18 with credentialed teachers. Email elibrary@ santacruzpl.org
First Thursdays: Friends of Aptos Library Meeting, 5-6 p.m. Second Thursdays: Book Discussions, 1-2:30 p.m. online and in-person. Register at https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/ event/11782362
Third Thursdays: Bring Your Own Story to Share, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., People bring whatever book they’re reading (nothing assigned) and share with the group. All welcome. Join the Facebook group “Aptos Book Club” for updates.
Fridays
Third Fridays: Bring Your Own Book Discussion, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Nov. 22, 2-2:30 p.m.: Mar Vista Elementary Music Club Concert Bring the whole family and show your support for these talented young performers. Whether you’re a seasoned music enthusiast or simply looking for a fun-filled afternoon, this event is sure to delight audiences of all ages.
GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP WITH HORSES
In November and December, Beyond Liberty & Pregnant Mare Rescue offer the Equine Guided Grief Support Group, a welcoming space in La Selva Beach, for anyone experiencing loss.
The gatherings are Saturdays, Nov. 30, Dec. 14 and Dec. 21 from 10 a.m. to noon.
Spend time with horses in a calm environment where you can share your feelings or simply reflect quietly. No prior experience with horses is needed.
Beyond Liberty is a nonprofit horse retirement and equine education center offering programs that bring more people into the world of horses.
GIVING TUESDAY
Tuesday December 3
What if we told you, you are changing the world right now? Would you believe it?
Register at https://beyondliberty.as.me/schedule/3f76c386/ ?appointment
RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVES
Festive activities and busy calendars this time of year can disrupt normal routines, leading to a drop in blood donation appointments. The American Red Cross encourages you to make donating blood a priority, especially type O.
To celebrate 30 years of “Friends,” all who give Nov. 18-Dec. 8 will receive two pairs of Friends + Red Cross socks, while supplies last, in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products. Keep a pair and gift a pair! Details: RedCrossBlood.org/Friends.
Book a donation appointment with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Santa Cruz
Nov. 23: 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Hotel Paradox, 611 Ocean St.
Nov. 26: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 220 Elk St.
Scotts Valley
Nov. 16: 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m., St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 5271 Scotts Valley Drive
Watsonville
Nov. 22: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Community Health Trust of Pajaro Valley, 85 Nielson St.
Nov. 29: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Community Health Trust of Pajaro Valley, 85 Nielson St.
PRESCRIBED BURN AT WILDER RANCH STATE PARK
Starting Nov. 11, California State Parks plans to conduct prescribed burns of 400 acres of grasslands at Wilder Ranch State Park for two weeks between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monitoring and patrol will take place and extend into the evening when required.
People around the Monterey Bay area, and those driving on Highway 1, may see smoke on the day of these burns, which aim to manage vegetation, reduce hazardous fuels and improve wildlife habitat. Burning removes flammable plants and restores essential nutrients to the soil with the hope of reducing catastrophic wildfires.
All burning is dependent on weather and air quality conditions favorable for smoke dispersal.
A better future is being built by all of us right now, in the billions of small actions we take each day. Acts of care, love, and understanding extend outward, like the threads of a beautiful tapestry. Whether it’s offering a kind smile, a helping hand, or an hour of your time — these acts have a way of rippling out, becoming part of something much greater. Giving Tuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good. Since then, it has grown into a year-round global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. Join the movement and give, whether it’s your time, a donation, or the power of your voice in your local community. Every act of generosity counts and everyone has something to contribute toward building the better world we all want to live in.
You could organize a generosity scavenger hunt, take over a busy street corner for a day to raise money for local nonprofits, or organize a compassion tour for kids ages 8-14 to introduce them to nonprofits making a difference. Visit www.Givingtuesday.org for more information.
If conditions are not conducive for burning, burns will be rescheduled, State Parks said. Some trails may be closed temporarily for public safety. These may include portions of the Chinquapin Trail, Long Meadow Trail and Englesman Loop Trail.
Burns are permitted, planned, and coordinated with the Monterey Bay Air Quality Management District to minimize smoke impacts to neighboring communities. If you see or smell smoke, officials recommend you avoid strenuous outdoor activity and remain indoors. These precautions are especially important for children, the elderly, and people with respiratory and heart conditions.
CASTRO ADOBE STATE PARK RESTORED Monthly Open House: Nov. 16, Dec. 8
10:30am- 3:30pm, 184 Old Adobe Rd, Watsonville
Thanks to Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks, the historic Castro Adobe has been restored and enriched with many new multimedia exhibits.
This two-story adobe is a prime example of rancho haciendas in the Monterey Bay area.
Come view unearthed artifacts, enjoy the Fandango lessons, and learn about the vaquero culture. Admission is free. Carpooling advised due to limited parking.
KING TIDES
The California King Tides are arriving early this season! Mark your calendar for Nov. 15-17 and Dec. 13-15. King tides occur when the highest and lowest tides hit our shores and create an even more dramatic coastline. At high tide, the powerful waves often crash against seawalls and extend beyond their usual borders. Extreme low tides expose rarely seen tide pools and allow miles of beach walking.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR HOMELESS COUNT
The next annual Point-in-Time Count is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 30.
This count is an estimate of the number of people experiencing homelessness on a single day in Santa Cruz County.
In 2024, the number of people experiencing homelessness increased slightly, up 2.6% to 1,850. The count is a requirement to receive federal homeless assistance funds and is used to support strategic decisions about programs.
If you are interested in volunteering, attend at least one of the trainings. If you are interested in receiving meeting reminders, sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ santacruzcounty/2025-pit-count
Most training is via zoom:
Thursday, Nov. 21 | 12:00 – 1:30pm | Location TBD Thursday, Dec. 19 | 12:00 – 1:30pm | Via Zoom ZoomGov Meeting, https://santacruzcounty-us.zoomgov. com/j/1619189419?pwd=yDEh1BcXCU0vp8xpcrHioJ2B qPkSBg.1
Meeting ID: 161 918 9419 | Passcode: 583683 Friday, Jan. 24 | 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. | Via zoom and in-person (location TBD)
ZoomGov Meeting, https://santacruzcounty-us.zoomgov. com/j/1602531515?pwd=aL5C9nq0Kghdszw9a5TyhZh nBpzmAB.1
Meeting ID: 160 253 1515 | Passcode: 986265
Do you have lived experience of homelessness? There is a need for those who would like to be a peer guide during the Count.
If you are interested, add your email to the list at https://tinyurl. com/PIT-count-peer-guide.
COUNTY FAIR BOARD MEETINGS
The Santa Cruz County Fair Board will meet each month in 2024 except September and November. Remaining dateis Dec. 3. There is no meeting in November. Meetings typically begin at 1:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday in the Heritage Building at the fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Blvd., Watsonville. For agendas, posted 10 days in advance, see santacruzcountyfair.com
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
ONGOING EVENTS
Nov. 17 through Dec. 14
ART EXHIBIT AT THE UGLY MUG
Open Daily | 4640 Soquel Drive, Soquel | Hours: 6:30-4:30 p.m.
The Ugly Mug will feature an art exhibit by the talented students of the Monterey Bay Horsemanship and Therapeutic Center in La Selva Beach.
This is the third annual exhibit for the center, which serves people with disabilities including autism.
Mondays
BRIDGE CLUB
10:30 a.m.-Noon, 7695 Soquel Dr, Aptos, CA 95003
The Aptos Branch Library will host Bridge Club sessions on Mondays (except holidays).
Bridge Club is a partnership between Santa Cruz County Parks and Santa Cruz Public Libraries. Register at scparks.com or in-person the day of the event.
Last Wednesdays of the Month
PV HEALTH CARE DISTRICT BOARD MEETINGS
6 p.m., Watsonville Community Hospital, 85 Nielson St. Pajaro Valley Health Care District Board, which oversees Watsonville Community Hospital, is holding monthly meetings on the last Wednesday of each month through 2024, except Nov. 20 and Dec. 18 due to the holidays.
Last Wednesdays of the Month
PARENT/CAREGIVER MENTAL HEALTH SEMINARS
5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Online Meeting
Dr. Ramona Friedman of the Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health in Soquel will be hosting a free Parent Drop-in Zoom session. Parents and caregivers are invited to log on and ask questions to Dr. Friedman about youth mental health issues, challenges, and ideas.
Parent Drop-Ins are free, 1-hour sessions where parents can seek guidance from experts specializing in specific mental health disorders. Parents can also connect with others facing similar challenges.
Clinical psychologists who specialize in anxiety, depression, eating disorders, suicidality, and medication, experienced youth mental health experts, host each session. For more info, visit https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/groups/ parent-drop-in-soquel-ca/247794
Third Thursdays SIP AND STROLL
6-9 p.m. (check-in starts at 5 p.m.), Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos
Come to the Seacliff Inn: Tapestry Collection by Hilton, for a Sip & Stroll event where local artists to show and sell their works. Wines are 30% off, and the featured winery will offer tastings of three varietals for $10 per person. Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wine30-sip-strolltickets-668910307737
Fridays (except First Friday of the Month)
LA SELVA BEACH LIBRARY BRIDGE GROUP
10:30-Noon, La Selva Beach Public Library, 316 Estrella Ave. Come for bridge from 10:30 to noon at the La Selva Beach library.
Call La Selva Library to reserve your seat: 831-427-7710.
Every Third Sunday
MONTEREY BAY AREA CACTUS AND SUCCULENT SOCIETY
12:00 p.m., Corralitos Grange Hall #487, 165 Little Corral Way, Watsonville
The nonprofit Monterey Bay Area Cactus and Succulent Society meets every third Sunday at Corralitos Grange Hall. The society contributes to the study and cultivation of succulents, cacti and other drought-tolerant plants. Monthly meetings include displays of plants and plant raffles. Meetings are on the third Sunday of each month with the exception of the Spring and Fall Show and Sales months (announced on the website).
VILLAGE AT POINT ALONES: CHINESE HISTORY
Thursday November 21
5:30-7:30 p.m., Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, 165 Forest Ave.
The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History will share a new documentary about the Chinese fishing villages of Monterey Bay.
Made by Ibis Education & Media of Felton, the film uses historical records and photos from Museum and the City of Monterey with stories told by descendants and scholars to delve into the history of the village and the residents’ impact on Monterey and California’s fishing industries.
The Village at Point Alones was established in the 1850s by Chinese settlers, who built homes and began a lucrative fishing business and eventually the beginnings of the canning industry. Following local backlash and hindering of their rights by the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, the residents pivoted from fishing during the day to fishing at night for squid with lanterns, which proved commercially successful. Drying squid in the open air, however, created a stench, upsetting downwind neighbors, who worried about property values.
The Chinese fishing village, with its wood shanties, experienced decades of fires until arson and looting in 1906 caused the Chinese to disperse.
The documentary tells this story from the start of the community to its destruction, bringing their stories up to the present day with dissolution of the controversial Feast of Lanterns parade, official apology by the City of Pacific Grove, and the annual Walk of Remembrance instituted by village descendant Gerry Low-Sabado.
With educators at Monterey Waterkeeper and village descendant and storyteller Bowen Lyam Lee, the museum has created curriculum to bring stories of the fishing village to classrooms. Classroom kits can be borrowed for free.
To learn more, see the book “Chinese Gold” by historian Sandy Lydon.
RSVP at: https://45970.blackbaudhosting.com/45970/Free-Screening-Montereys-Chinese-Fishing-Village
New members to club meetings will receive a complimentary plant. All are welcome!
For information, contact Mary at (831) 229-3289 or e-mail crossmarylouise@gmail.com. Visit mbsucculent.org for more information.
DATED EVENTS
Friday November 15
Saturday November 16
GOAT HILL FAIR ANTIQUE & VINTAGE SHOW
Fri: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. | Sat. 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville
Enjoy the semi-annual Goat Hill Fair Antique & Vintage Show, presented by the Agricultural History Center, at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds.
Juried vendors bring the very best in antiques and beautifully display their wares. Expect a variety of yummy food and beverage choices. Relax and enjoy your food to refuel for more shopping!
Parking is free and plentiful. Handicap parking is located near the entrance. $15 two-day admission; $10 Saturday only; $30 Early Goat with advance entry 8-10 a.m. Friday. Tickets at goathillfair.com
Saturday November 16
KARA GUZMAN SPEAKS ON LOCAL NEWS INDUSTRY 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Aptos Library, 7695 Soquel Dr. Kara Meyberg Guzman, CEO and co-founder of Santa Cruz Local
will discuss the state of the local news industry and the reasons newspapers are disappearing nationwide, as well as how independent journalism plays a crucial role in our community. The public is invited to this AAUW meeting. The event is free.
ASSEMBLYMEMBER GAIL PELLERIN AT TOWN HALL
1 – 3:00 p.m., Felton Community Hall, 6191 Highway 9
The 23rd San Lorenzo Valley Environmental Town Hall, sponsored by the Valley Women’s Club of SLV Environmental Committee, will take place at Felton Community Hall, featuring Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) and a Q&A.
Learn about pressing concerns, foster collaboration, and spark positive environmental transformations.
LA SELVA BEACH HOLIDAY FAIR
10 a.m.-4 p.m., La Selva Beach Clubhouse and Lawn, 314 Estrella Ave.
Find all of your holiday needs at the La Selva Beach Holiday Fair. Over 50 arts and crafts vendors will showcase their work inside the Clubhouse and on the outdoor lawn.
Handcrafted jewelry, art, pottery, books, bags, olive oil and vinegars, candles, soaps, plants, home decor and more will be available.
The event will feature a used book sale, fresh baked goods and drinks and a raffle. Proceeds benefit the Library’s teen programs. Food trucks Tacos el Jesse and S&B Burgers will be on site.
Admission to the one-day event is free!
The event is sponsored by the La Selva Beach Improvement Association and the Friends of the La Selva Beach Library. For more information contact: booksandbrewsLSB@gmail.com
Saturday November 16
Sunday November 17
HOLIDAY ART FESTIVAL
10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Aromas Grange, 400 Rose Ave. Crafters and artists will offer their work to the public at the Holiday Art Festival at the Aromas Grange. This wonderful event has become a tradition in the quaint and lovely village of Aromas, located 10 miles south of Watsonville. The Aromas Grange is over 100 years old and beautifully refurbished.
Artisans will display their handmade wares, such as paintings, stained glass, photography, etchings, carved and turned wood items, jewelry, succulents, and so much more.
As you stroll the aisles, relax and enjoy Jesse Martinez’s wonderful songs. Inhale aromas from the hot and cold foods sold from the kitchen. Sip a cup of cider and relax at one of the tables by the fireplace, or take a free class from one of the crafters.
Over two dozen handmade items will be raffled off. The drawing is Sunday afternoon. It’s time to finish that Christmas list while you chat with serious artists who love to spread the joy of sharing lovely art pieces.
Tuesday November 19
WATSONVILLE SOROPTIMISTS MEETING
Noon, Ella’s at the Airport, 100 Aviation Way, Watsonville Soroptimist International of Watsonville will hold its next meeting at Ella’s at the Airport.
After a brief business meeting, speaker Eva Jones, founder of Magical Horsemanship, will talk about how she finds balance and healing working with her horses. Learn how Soroptimists provide those services through our Live Your Dream financial awards programs and the Dream It, Be It middle and high school girls careerorientation program.
Women in the community are invited to join in. To RSVP, contact Renee Mello at 831-840-2479.
Watsonville Soroptimists were recognized by the Soroptimist International of the Americas’ Federation for participation in the Live Your Dream, Dream It, Be It and “Big Goal” programs.
Soroptimist International of Watsonville is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to education and training to achieve economic empowerment. For information, email siwatsonville@soroptimist.net.
Wednesday November 20
FENTANYL HIGH DOCUMENTARY SCREENING
6-8 p.m., Aptos High School Performing Arts Center, 100 Mariner Way, Aptos
Kyle Santoro’s documentary, “Fentanyl High,” will be shown at Aptos High School Performing Arts Center with an audience Q&A to follow.
There will be narcan (the antidote) and resources available plus food.
This event is in partnership with Watsonville Community Hospital, SafeRx Santa Cruz County, Santa Cruz Community Health, Encompass Community Services, Santa Cruz County Office of Education, Janus, Salud Para la Gente, and Santa Cruz County Public Health.
Thursday November 21
HOLIDAY MIXER
5-7 p.m., Rootstock Artisan Collective, 861 41st Ave Rootstock Artisan Collective in Pleasure Point will host a Holiday Mixer with the Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce 5-7 pm Thursday, Nov 21.
“Calendar” page 31
More Reasons to Shop at Local Businesses This Holiday Season
By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District
The holiday season is traditionally one of the largest sales times for many retailers. Over the last few years local businesses have been facing additional pressures with rising prices and, in particular, competition from online retailers.
In Aptos and throughout our 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, over 80% of local businesses have fewer than 10 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. 30 this year) timeframes.
For example, the Aptos Chamber has an annual holiday market and tree lighting event on Saturday Dec. 7 from 1-4 pm in the Aptos Village Green with many local businesses participating while the Capitola-Soquel Chamber has a holiday mixer (5-7 pm Nov. 21 at Rootstock Collective) and additional events supporting local businesses -- which can be found on their website.
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 that counties with larger shares of local small businesses outperform their peers
COMMUNITY NEWS
Son 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 stores) 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 this holiday season.
If you’d like additional information, the Aptos Chamber of Commerce has a business directory and holiday specials at www.aptos chamber.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.
Santa Cruz Gives: 63 Local Nonprofits
anta Cruz Gives, a countywide crowdfunding holiday campaign in its ninth season, will raise funds for 63 local nonprofits from Nov. 20 until midnight Dec. 31.
Santa Cruz Gives has become the largest fundraising campaign in Santa Cruz County supporting local nonprofits — raising more than $5 million since it began in 2015, with $2.2 million given in the past two years.
At SantaCruzGives.org, donors browse profile pages to learn about each nonprofit’s mission and “Big Idea” for 2025, a project to be funded with donations, then use a shopping cart to give. Minimum donation: $5.
Nonprofits cover the county geographically and represent a variety of needs: Youth, seniors, animals, environment, education, health and wellness, food and nutrition, housing and homelessness, the arts, veterans, families, LGBTQIA+, and the disabled.
The selected nonprofits will receive individually donated funds, matching funds provided by sponsors, and be eligible for three $1,000 awards: Most donors overall, most increased donations from previous year, and most successful first- time participant.
A committee with diverse nonprofit experience reviewed chose 63 from those that applied. Participation is limited so each nonprofit has potential to raise sufficient funds for staff time spent on the campaign. The public exposure that nonprofits gain through the Santa Cruz Gives campaign is beyond what any could achieve on their own.
Participants in Santa Cruz Gives report a majority of donors are new donors as well as younger.
Presenting sponsors are Good Times and the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County. Additional sponsors include: Community Foundation Santa Cruz County; Driscoll’s, Inc., Monterey Peninsula Foundation, 1440 Foundation, and The Applewood Fund and The Joe Collins Fund at Community Foundation Santa Cruz County.
Other sponsors are Santa Cruz County Bank, Wynn Capital Management, The Pajaronian, and Press Banner. n
See www.SantaCruzGives.org
We provide local –
SCCAS Featured Pet
Snacks For Your Pleasure
This week our Pets of the Week are Flaky (#A312959) and Skittles (#A312960), a bonded pair of indoor-only kitties looking for their forever home. They can be a bit shy at first, but once they warm up, they are the cuddliest, most playful duo you’ll ever meet.
Flaky is the adventurous one. She loves exploring every nook and cranny and is always up for playing. Skittles is a bit more laid-back, but she loves a good nap in a sunbeam.
They’re a package deal, and we’re hoping to find a family who will love them both. Skittles is currently being treated for an eye issue, but with the right care, she should be just fine. Before you adopt them, you’ll get to chat with a member of our medical team to learn more about Skittles’ care and to see if these kitties the right fit for you.
Ready to meet us? These kittens can’t wait to meet their new family! n
The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is full of adoptable animals. Fostering animals is an awesome way to improve a Shelter animal’s life and fill your home with love and fun! If you are interested in fostering any kind of animal please email jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us. You can also Follow SCCAS on Instagram and/or Facebook to stay up-to-date on shelter news and where to find adoptable pets around town at breweries, stores and events. All adoptions are first come, first served.
Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s full-service, open-admission shelter 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 • Hours: Daily 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. 580 Airport Blvd., Watsonville, 95076 • Hours: Tues.-Sat. 9:30 a.m. – noon; 1–5 p.m. (Closed Sun/Mon)
Website: www.scanimalshelter.org
SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182 • After Hours: jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us
“Calendar” from page 29
Rootstock Artisan Collective is a carefully crafted space showcasing the diverse talents of the local artist and maker community.
Featured are photographer Nicole Fischer, muralist Anastasiya Bachmanova, and jewelry designer Elena Kelly to name a few.
Enjoy beverages, light appetizers, shopping and raffle prizes, while connecting with business owners, entrepreneurs, professionals, and community members. Networking + sipping + shopping + holiday fun! See rootstockcollective.com or call (386) 956-5479
Sunday November 24
WHITE RABBIT FLEA MARKET
8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Cruise Coffee, 246 Kings Village Road, SV Check out the White Rabbit Flea Market every fourth Sunday, weather permitting, at Cruise Coffee. Up to 100 vendors, and everything you need — and don’t need!
New, used, vintage, collectibles, antiques, handmade … a little some-thing for everyone! https://www.collectivesocialclub.com
Thursday November 28
THANKSGIVING DINNER: TURKEY & ALL!
11 a.m.-3 p.m., Veterans Memorial Building, 846 Front St., Santa Cruz
For more than 30 years, the veterans have hosted a Thanksgiving meal at the Veterans Memorial Building in downtown Santa Cruz for those in our community who are houseless or of very modest means.
This tradition has endured through the good works of the veterans themselves and those who support their local mission of serving the less fortunate. Veterans for Peace and the Friends of Thanksgiving announce that the Santa Cruz Community Thanksgiving Dinner will once again this year be hosted at the Veterans Memorial Building.
Everyone is invited to attend and enjoy a hot, traditional meal of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and all the trimmings prepared by local chefs.
The hall will once again be decorated by local Girl Scouts and music will be provided by local artists. Join us for a day of true community as we eat, share stories and experiences and celebrate the holiday spirit.
Your generous donation will help turn a time of want and need into a celebration of joy and generosity. The goal is $3,000. To give, visit https://gofund. me/09145d02
Happy Holidays to you and yours from the Veterans for Peace and the Friends of Thanksgiving.
Saturday November 30
SURFIN’ SANTA
12 p.m. – 3 p.m., Capitola Beach | Capitola Village
Saturday December 7
Sunday December 8
PARKSTORE HOLIDAY SALE
10 a.m.-4 p.m., Various locations
Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks will host its annual ParkStore Holiday Sale at three locations this year:
• Seacliff State Beach, 201 State Park Drive, Aptos
• Natural Bridges State Beach, 2531 W. Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz
• Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park, 144 School St., Santa Cruz
“The Holiday Sale is a fun and meaningful way to show support for our local state parks and beaches,” Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks Executive Director Bonny Hawley said. “We’ll have a wide variety of park-themed gifts available, including apparel, jewelry, books, toys, iconic Michael Schwab and more.”
Friends members will receive 30% off on select iconic Michael Schwab park illustrations on apparel, plus jewelry, maps, nature guides, local history books, educational toys and other gifts representing the natural and cultural history of our parks.
Look for hats, pins, stickers and key chains by popular artist Tim Ward, Socksmith socks, and silk scarves. Non-members receive 20% off.
Proceeds benefit local state parks and beaches.
Thursday December 12
APTOS CHAMBER FAREWELL TO ZACH FRIEND
11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Drive. Join the Aptos Chamber of Commerce for a lunch with County Supervisor Zach Friend at Seascape Golf Club to express gratitude for his years of hard work and warmly welcome our newly elected supervisor! There will be time for questions and community updates. Fee: $35. Reservations required; no walk-ins. Call (831) 6881467 or visit aptoschamber.com.
Friday, December 13
JAMES DURBIN JOINS WATSONVILLE BAND
7:30 p.m., Mello Center, 250 E Beach St, Watsonville This year, musical sensation James Durbin, grandson of Watsonville Community Band members Dr. James (Doc) Settle and Shirley Settle, will be the featured soloist for a holiday concert at the Henry J. Mello Center for the Performing Arts in Watsonville. The Youth Band will perform at 7 p.m. Band conductor is Brad Gronroos, a 1972 Watsonville High alum.
The Band will also perform Saturday, Dec. 14, at Peace United Church, 900 High St. Santa Cruz and Sunday, Dec. 15, at Scotts Valley Performing Arts, 251 Kings Village Road. Both concerts start at 2 p.m.
Sunday December 15
HOLIDAY MARKET
Statepoint Media
Ho! Ho! Ho! Welcome Surfin’ Santa to the shores of Capitola Beach! Santa will be riding the waves via Outrigger canoe, rain or shine, for his annual visit to Capitola Village, arriving at Noon to visit with all the kids!
Once toweled off, he’ll settle in his beach chair for a nice, long visit.
Be sure to bring your camera to capture Santa’s wave riding arrival, and your little one’s special visit with Santa.
It makes a great holiday photo!
Saturday December 7
HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR AND TREE LIGHTING
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Aptos Village Green, 448 Granite Way (Behind New Leaf Market)
Head to the Aptos Village Green to see local craft vendors, sip coffee or hot chocolate with your cookies and have a picture with Santa.
Enjoy music, performances, and of course the tree lighting ceremony! https://aptoschamber.com/event/aptos-village-square-tree-lighting/
11 a.m.–3 p.m., Felton Covered Bridge, Graham Hill Rd. / Mt. Hermon Rd. intersection
The Holiday Market on the Felton Covered Bridge is a festive annual event hosted by the San Lorenzo Valley Chamber of Commerce.
This magical event transforms the historic Felton Covered Bridge and Park into a charming holiday setting featuring local artisans, food vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities.
The event spotlights local businesses, artists, and crafters making it a cherished tradition in the Santa Cruz Mountains and beyond.
Come celebrate the season! n
