On March 25, the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County announced that the Estrada Ranch — 1,205 mountainous acres in the heart of the Pajaro Hills in Santa Cruz County — has been protected in perpetuity through a conservation easement. Full Story page 10
By Jondi Gumz
Alison Hanks-Sloan, principal of Aptos High School for almost three years, is being reassigned, and parents and teachers are not happy about it.
Mar Vista Elementary Expands to
So far, 600 people have signed the petition. They are asking Dr. Heather Contreras, superintendent of the Pajaro Valley Unified School District since May, to reverse her decision. ... continues on page 4
In a petition on Change.org, parents say, “Dr AHS has led the school with grace, passion and strength. She’s been an unwavering support for all who come in contact with her. This would be a devastating loss for the Aptos High Community.”
With 80% voting in favor, Mar Vista Elementary School will become a transitional kindergarten through eighth-grade (TK-8) school in 2025-26. The Pajaro Valley Unified School District made the announcement March 26. Full Story page 22
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AHS” from page 1
The district is experiencing financial struggles, as one-time pandemic funds have sunset and enrollment has declined, part of a statewide trend for the past seven years as more families move away due to the high cost of living and others dissatisfied with online lessons during the 2020 pandemic opted to homeschool.
Also, birth rates have declined statewide and in Santa Cruz County.
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This year, Aptos High School has 1,230 students, down from 1,316 the year before and 1,450 the year before that.
In January, the school board cut $5 million, affecting an unspecified number of intervention teachers, mental health clinicians and socio-emotional counselors.
In February, the school board approved layoffs for 60 positions after Chief Budget Officer Jenny Im recommended 100 layoffs to stave off a state takeover.
In such a takeover, the local school board loses its decision-making power, and a state-appointed administrator takes control, potentially leading to budget cuts, program closures, and a lengthy recovery.
Afterward Im resigned.
She had been promoted from her role as director of finance, but also had to do that job because the position remained vacant.
Rick Hanks, father of the Aptos High School principal, said her reassignment letter arrived March 6.
The letter said she would be informed of her assignment by June 30.
Because this is a personnel matter, district officials have not shared reasons for the reassignment.
During her tenure as principal, HanksSloan wrote a monthly column for Aptos Times, sharing updates on Aptos High School with the community.
In her March 15 column, she explained the role of the school board in personnel
decisions, noting that reassignments by the superintendent must be approved by the board before March 15 and that constituents have the right to contact their school board member and provide information on “issues most important to you.”
She asked that her usual byline as “Aptos High principal” be removed.
In their petition, parents say Hanks-Sloan “has supported and communicated with her teachers during budget cuts, schedule change & layoff talks within the PVUSD school district.”
They contend “Superintendent Heather Contreras felt challenged by it because she expected the narrative to come only from her, even though the only communications that were happening were convoluted and confusing. Once Dr. AHS got word that she was not to support or communicate with her staff about what was happening, she stopped. But by then feelings had been hurt and Contreras decided to punish Dr. AHS by removing her from her position at the end of the school year.”
Parents call this decision “rash” and “extremely upsetting for hundreds of students, parents and staff who have been lucky enough to have her as a Principal, a listening ear, a friend, a mentor and a stable and calming leader at Aptos High.”
Aptos High students rallied with signs to save the 7-period day. District staff claim it requires more FTE (staff) but it does gives students more face time with teachers.
Brandon Diniz, president of the Pajaro Valley Federation of Teachers, said the union has assurances that the 7-period day will stay for next year but that a consultant has been hired to look for systemic inequities.
“Equity means everybody gets what they need,” he said.
Neither Watsonville High nor Pajaro Valley High have a 7-period day but twothirds of the Pajaro Valley High staff voted to move to a 7-period day, where teachers teaching five classes are considered full-time.
As Diniz sees it, the district has a $355 million budget and the 7-period day costing $1.5 million to $2 million, is a small part.
He is not taking into account that 38% to 48% can be restricted funds.
On March 24, Mike Berman, assistant superintendent of educational services, hosted a meeting at Aptos High to take input on what qualities parents would like to see in the next principal.
About 40 people attended, Berman, who has a 10th grader at Aptos High and a 5th grader at Rio Del Mar Elementary, acknowledged that many in the room were frustrated and upset by the process.
“I hear you, I hear you,” he said repeatedly.
He said applicants would be considered by staff the day after spring break in April, with top candidates going to the superintendent’s cabinet the next day, and the finalist to the school board April 16.
Berman asked attendees to fill out poster boards labeled “Academics,” “Climate+ Culture,” “School Safety,” and “Other,” promising that this input was important.
One parent said she emailed the superintendent but got no response. She said some teachers were reluctant to participate fearing retributiuon.
At one table, attendees filled the board with “Dr AHS” and “Dr. Alison Hanks-
Editor’s Note: This letter was written to the Pajaro Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees:
•••
I am writing to express my deep concerns about Superintendent Dr. Heather Contreras’s actions and leadership.
Recent decisions, such as Dr. Alison Hanks-Sloan’s reassignment from her role as Principal of Aptos High School, have raised serious questions about the direction of our district during an already turbulent time.
With budget cuts, teacher layoffs, and potentially eliminating the seven-period school day, stability and transparency are more critical than ever. Dr. Hanks-Sloan has been a steadfast leader, advocating for her staff and students, even when her views may not align with the Superintendent’s.
This kind of leadership is invaluable
Dr. Contreras’s actions, including hiring former colleagues as consultants at significant expense to the district, suggest a troubling pattern of prioritizing personal networks over the needs of our schools.
creating an environment of fear and retaliation.
Furthermore, Dr. Contreras’ lack of transparency and the falsehoods surrounding her decision-making process have eroded public trust. Stakeholders have reported feeling deceived during meetings about budget cuts and other changes, with questions unanswered or deflected. It is particularly troubling to hear that a student advocating for the seven-period schedule was interrupted multiple times while trying to share their perspective.
personal networks over the needs of our schools. How much of our limited budget is allocated to these consultants, and at what cost to our students and teachers?
As trustees, you are accountable to the public, and Dr. Contreras is responsible to you — not the other way around. The community is losing confidence not only in the Superintendent but also in the Board itself. A petition calling for a vote of no confidence in Dr. Contreras reflects the growing frustration among constituents.
You can restore trust and demonstrate your commitment to this district’s students, teachers, and families. I want to ask you to take decisive action to address these concerns and ensure that our district is led by someone who prioritizes transparency, collaboration, and the best interests of our community.
Thank you for your attention to this
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Cabrillo College’s Xinachtli Journal, a social justice literary arts magazine known as Journal X, has been ranked ‘Superior’ by the National Council of Teachers of English. Superior means the magazine scored 82-89 points just behind those ranked First Class with 90-100 points.
Journal X, founded in 2021, is curated by English 1B students at Cabrillo College’s
Watsonville Center. The magazine features poetry, stories, essays, photography, and artwork from emerging and established artists in Santa Cruz County and beyond.
A celebration takes place in May at the Watsonville Center featuring writers and artists, and the Journal is released in the summer.
“Journal X” page 24
Janet Rachel Johns, dancer and choreographer, has been named 2025 Santa Cruz County Artist of the Year by the Santa Cruz County Arts Commission.
As an Assyrian woman, mother, educator, dance instructor, choreographer and a performing artist in Santa Cruz County for over 45 years, Johns has experienced firsthand the power of the arts for healing a community and bringing people together.
Since she started learning folklorico dance at age 18 as a student at San Jose State University, she learned from her mentor, Ramon Morones Ortiz, of Guadalajara, Mexico, the importance of learning authentic steps, style and choreography from master instructors and keepers of the traditions of Mexico.
When she moved to Watsonville to begin her career as a bilingual educator in 1978, she co-founded Esperanza del Valle and wrote her first Arts Council grant, establishing her folklorico dance class as a performing company in 1980.
a home for the arts in Watsonville. She volunteered as a founding member of the Watsonville Film Festival for many years and has served as a local artist/dancer instructor for many charitable community organizations.
When the Loma Prieta Earthquake struck in 1989, Esperanza del Valle collaborated with local artists and produced a performance at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, as a fundraiser for the Watsonville community. Esperanza del Valle then supporte the community of Pajaro through the floods of 1995, 1997 and in 2023.
Esperanza del Valle was the only adult folklorico dance company in the Watsonville community in those early days. Hundreds of dancers have trained, learned, and performed with her company.
A free performance will take place 7-9 p.m. May 9 at the Crocker Theater at Cabrillo College in Aptos. Admission is free but seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis that evening; advance tickets are not available.
The Artist of the Year award is presented to local artists for outstanding achievement in the discipline of performing, visual, or literary arts who have also made a substantial contribution to the cultural enrichment of Santa Cruz County. To learn more, visit www.scparks.com
Johns has served on many subcommittees of Arts Council Santa Cruz County (e.g. the Grants Committee, Steering Committee) and currently serves on the commission supporting the Arts in Watsonville.
Esperanza del Valle is a partner with the Watsonville Center for the Arts; Johns has volunteered for 40+ years to find
Johns has produced annual gala theater performances in the Greater Santa Cruz TriCounty area with Esperanza del Valle, bringing the best of Mexican dance and music to our community for 4+ decades.
She is thankful to have worked with amazing fellow artists in the community and Mexico and to have had the opportunity to teach at Cabrillo College, UC Santa Cruz, CSU Monterey Bay and Pajaro Valley Unified School District, share these wonderful resources with students and families in our community. She has offered free lectures, demonstrations and dance classes with visiting master instructors, who visited schools throughout the county and offered classes for local youth folklorico groups. Collaborating and performing with El Teatro Campesino, Santa Cruz Symphony, Tandy Beal and Company and many more have brought a richness to her life as an artist.
Johns has received numerous awards, including a proclamation from the mayor and City of Watsonville in 2020 recognizing her 40 years of leadership with Esperanza del Valle; the Watsonville City Council Mayor’s Award in 2014; a Gail Rich Award in 2002 for her community service in the arts; and a Calabash Award in 2001 for Excellence in the Ethnic Arts.
Her son, Gabriel Johns Robledo, teaches folklorico and drama at Pajaro Valley High School, inspiring new generations of adolescents to see themselves as artists and agents of change. n
By Doug Erickson
In politics, narratives matter — but eventually, infrastructure must be poured, bridges must be built, and roads must function.
Santa Cruz County’s rail trail project was born from an appealing narrative: Combine clean transportation, climate action, and equity into a single corridor that accommodates both a new rail line and a bike-and-pedestrian trail.
A decade later, the result is an emblem of the dysfunction that fuels distrust in progressive governance — and a cautionary tale for Democrats across the country.
Back in 2012, Santa Cruz County’s
Regional Transportation Commission purchased a dormant 32-mile freight rail corridor stretching from Davenport to Pajaro for $14.2 million. With help from state funds through Proposition 116 — a 1990 bond designed to support clean transportation — the RTC committed to preserving the rail line, ostensibly for future passenger service. The plan: Keep the tracks and build a trail beside them.
On paper, it sounded visionary.
In practice, it’s been a slow-motion disaster.
As of 2024, only three miles of trail have been constructed. A short 0.7-mile section currently under development — from Bay Avenue to the Wharf — is costing $16 million.
That’s more than five times the typical $3–4 million per mile that similar trails cost nationwide. And these are the easy segments. The more challenging terrain — through Capitola, Live Oak, Soquel, and Aptos — includes steep embankments, encroaching development, coastal cliffs, and degraded infrastructure.
And then came the bridge estimate: $1 billion.
That’s not the cost for the train. That’s
just to repair or replace 33 aging bridges and trestles to make the corridor safe for future rail use. This figure excludes the cost of new trains, laying new tracks, building stations and parking, installing safety features like
quiet zones and crossings, or annual operating and maintenance costs.
Even before those are considered, Santa Cruz County has no agency with the technical or financial capacity to operate a passenger rail system.
Worse still, Santa Cruz’s experience with the trail so far suggests that projected costs dramatically understate the final price tag. Initial estimates for the trail in 2014 came in at $126 million. Today, the realistic figure is closer to $500 million — a 4x multiplier. Apply that same multiplier to the train portion, and the outlook becomes staggering: the $1 billion bridge cost could balloon to $4 billion; add another billion for everything else, and Santa Cruz faces a $5 billion rail project.
This is in a county with no dedicated rail agency, no committed federal or state funding, and a local sales tax already near the 10% statutory ceiling. A major sales tax increase — requiring a state exemption — would be the only path forward, and political appetite is thin.
Still, the project remains alive, defended in the language of climate justice, transit equity, and sustainability. To challenge it is, in some circles, to challenge progressive values themselves.
That’s the problem.
The rail trail is increasingly divorced from the transportation needs it was meant to address. Highway 1 remains clogged during commute hours. The Santa Cruz Metro bus system — already underutilized and facing structural deficits — is the county’s only real transit operator. Ridership is primarily students traveling to UC Santa Cruz and commuters to San Jose via the Highway 17 Express.
By Jondi Gumz
With lagging revenue from local sales tax and federal disaster reimbursement and uncertainty about future federal funding as the new Trump administration seeks to downsize government to get the federal deficit under control, the one bright spot for the County of Santa Cruz budget is Measure K.
Approved by voters in March 2024 to raise the sales tax in unincorporated areas from 9% to 9.5%, the measure is expected to raise $10.1 million in 2025-26 and can be used for any county purpose.
Should the County find itself in another disaster, staff say, “the County will be limited in its recovery unless future debt is supported by voter-approved property tax initiative(s).”
The midyear budget update does allow for up to $10 million in lost federal funding for 2025-26.
Another possible sign, and this is also due to Measure K and the debt financing: Projected deficits for 2025-26 and 2026-27 expected to reach $23.5 million and $35.2 million, are now projected at $1.9 million and $15 million.
The spending plan for this year projected $7.5 million of revenue:
• $1 million for environmental and parks capital projects, with $200,000 set aside for each district;
• $1 million for homelessness services;
• $1 million to housing-related uses:
• $1 million for emergency road projects this winter;
• $3.5 million to restore the General Fund contingency budget due to the threat of climate-driven disasters.
For 2025-26 staff recommend:
• $1 million for environmental and parks capital projects, with $200,000 set aside for each district;
• $1 million for homelessness services;
• $1 million for housing-related uses;
• $2 million for unincorporated area road maintenance and repair.
County staff say its Road Fund has declined due to reduced gas tax revenues, increased storm damage and debt service, so this allocation would increase road maintenance and resurfacing and major culvert repair and replacement.
The debt service is because in May 2024, the County borrowed $89.1 million — close to the amount of County reserves — to cover expenses from the 2020 CZU fires and 2023 storms that officials had expected to be reimbursed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which ran out of money and halted reimbursements.
At that time, the County had $125.3 million in unpaid claims from FEMA and Federal Highway Administration.
FEMA has denied $5.1 million requested by the County for COVID-19 expenses, and it’s unclear how much money might be forthcoming.
Given the magnitude and frequency of disasters in recent years, the uncertainty about future federal reimbursements, and the historic size of the 2024 debt financing that pledged most of the County’s remaining facility assets, such financing will not be an option in the future, according to county staff’s midyear budget update as of Feb. 25.
County supervisors will see the proposed 2025-26 budget at their meeting April 29.
Budget hearings are set for June 3, June 4, and June 10.
Given the constraints, the County Administrative Office directed departments not to request additional funding.
However, the county Health Services Agency is projecting a budget gap of $11 million to $17 million for 2025-26, not considering federal policy changes. The reasons: Lower reimbursement rates and restrictions on billable activities under CalAIM (California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal) reform, new mandates such as the CARE Act for those on the schizophrenia spectrum, and low health center medical visits.
Because reimbursement rates are notably lower than those in neighboring counties, county staff say it is difficult to remain competitive in recruiting and retaining staff and contracted services.
Staff requested that Board chair (Felipe Hernandez) send a letter to the State delegation regarding the County’s low reimbursement rates for behavioral health services.
Another factor, staff say, is a reduction in Mental Health Services Act revenue— driven by a decline in the 1% tax on individuals earning over $1 million and the diversion of MHSA funds. This led behavioral health staff to prioritize statemandated entitlement services, rather than non-mandated programs.
The Health Centers Division is projecting a funding shortfall of $4 million to $7 million in the 2025-26 due to rising personnel costs and inflation. County staff say the division aims to mitigate these increased costs with improvements in clinical provider productivity.
One rare new project is to develop an alternate emergency only egress out of Lompico Valley, identified as a need after the 2018 Camp Fire destroyed the mountain town of Paradise.
“County Budget” page 18
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• CREATES
On March 25, the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County announced that the Estrada Ranch — 1,205 mountainous acres in the heart of the Pajaro Hills in Santa Cruz County — has been protected in perpetuity through a conservation easement.
This arrangement between the Land Trust and the Frank Estrada family will keep the land in productive use while permanently protecting it from development.
“I feel strongly that preserving our ranch is what the prior generations would have wanted us to do,” said Greg Estrada. “We take pride in being good stewards of the land and by us partnering with Land Trust of Santa Cruz County and Peninsula Open Space Trust, the Estrada ranch will now forever be preserved.”
Dominated by coast redwood forest, oak woodland, and grassland, the property provides an example of how working lands and wildlife habitat can exist side-by-side —
and even thrive when managed sustainably. Keystone mammal species are known to use or travel through the property, including mountain lion, bobcat, and American badger.
The Land Trust said this sprawling ranch will significantly improve the continuity of protected lands in the eight-mile span along the highest ridgeline running between the Soquel Demonstration State Forest and Forest of Nisene Marks State Park to Mount Madonna County Park, creating a 5,800-acre contiguous protected area.
“This Ranch has been in the family for five generations and it is home, but due to the passing of the most recent generation and the land ownership structure we were always prepared to lose more than half of the ranch in future transactions,” explains Grant Estrada. “With help from POST and the Land Trust of Santa Cruz, we have been able to preserve the ranch for future generations. The outcome couldn’t have been better.”
Oof Scholarships, Poetry and Poster Contests Announced
n March 19, Mark Sambrailo, president of Sambrailo Packaging, founded in 1923, received the 2025 Al Smith Friend of Agriculture award for his strong support of local agriculture throughout the years.
The award was announced at the National Agriculture Day Spring Luncheon, an event at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds for which more than 220 tickets were sold.
The annual event is coordinated by the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau and the educational organization, Agri-Culture.
Sambrailo helped develop the clamshell with his father in 1987, designed the current raspberry clamshell tray to be folded in the field in1991, opened a Mexican packaging company, SambraMex, in 2001, and developed the first 4 lb. strawberry clamshell that gave 30% freight efficiency to Costco and California berry shippers. He increased the size of company 5-fold since becoming president in 1996.
“National Ag Day” page 12
The ranch’s remarkable mix of habitats—ranging from redwood forest to chapparal—supports a rich array of species. Important resources on the property include multiple native-dominant habitat types, headwaters of regionally important creeks (Green Valley Creek, Browns Creek, and Casserly Creek), and intact wildlife corridors.
Focal species include blacktailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus), mountain lion (Puma concolor), and coastal steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus).
Overall, the property is in exceptional ecological health, according to the Land Trust.
Riparian and wetland areas on the property support habitat for the California red-legged frog, a federally threatened and state species of special concern.
Multiple other unconfirmed species have suitable habitat on parts of Estrada Ranch. These include the Santa Cruz black salamander, California tiger salamander, and potentially Cooper’s Hawk and bald eagle.
Through thoughtful management, the Frank Estrada family has ensured the ecological health of the property has remained intact for decades. This multi-stage land protection project began with the $10.6 million purchase of 839 acres of the ranch in 2023 by Peninsula Open Space Trust.
The new easement purchase by the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County ensures that ownership of the whole property returns to the family while the flora, fauna, habitats, and ecology of the ranch and working forest remain free from threats of development and disturbance.
“This land protection strategy is unique in that it allows us to achieve dual conservation outcomes,” said Sarah Newkirk, the Land Trust’s executive director, “preserving habitat and a critical piece of the wildlife corridor between the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Gabilan Range while enabling the Estrada family to continue their generational working ranch.”
The Land Trust partnered with Peninsula Open Space Trust, Cal Fire, the California Strategic Growth Council, and the California Department of Conservation to secure the easement valued at over $12 million.
One third of the purchase price was raised through private donations, including a $2 million contribution from the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County.
“This conservation easement safeguards sensitive ecosystems, while allowing generational landowners to continue ranching and sustainable timber harvesting activities,” said Jennifer Lucchesi, Department of Conservation director. “Protecting this land from development is also critical for environmental health, which provides our native species with food, water, shelter, and space.”
Cal Fire’s Forest Legacy Program funds landscape-scale conservation projects to conserve working forests and working forested landscapes.
Peter Leuzinger, Cal Fire’s Deputy Chief of Forestry Assistance, said, “Cal Fire’s $4.5 million dollar investment in the Estrada Ranch Conservation Easement project helped prevent forest fragmentation and conversion to nonforest uses, and that is incredibly important not only to the community, but for the local ecosystem as well.”
Gordon Clark, president of POST, said, “POST is honored to have participated in this complex transaction and the permanent protection of this environmentally rich and historically significant property. With the Estrada family’s commitment to conservation plus the generous support of our donors and other financial backers, we are proud to have been able to help finance this project and contribute over $2.5 million into this vital landscape linkage.”
This effort is part of the Land Trust’s strategic priority to protect habitat for biodiversity and steward high-value at-risk lands.
The easement will contribute 1,205 acres to the organization’s goal of protecting 6,000 acres of habitat in the Santa Cruz to Gabilan landscape linkage by 2028.
Funds for the easement were made available through the California Strategic Growth Council’s Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Program in collaboration with the Department of Conservation.
The Growth Council’s Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities Program complements investments made in urban areas with the purchase of agricultural conservation easements, development of agricultural land strategy plans, and mechanisms that result in greenhouse gas reductions and a more resilient agricultural sector.
The program invests in agricultural land conservation with revenue from California Climate Investments derived from quarterly cap-and-trade auction proceeds administered by the California Air Resources Board. The Department of Conservation works in cooperation with the Natural Resources Agency as the implementation partner. n
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“National Ag Day” from page 10
Zach Friend, who received the award in 2024, presented the award, which is named for Al Smith, the founder of Orchard Supply Hardware who donated 3,000 acres (Swanton Pacific Ranch) on the north coast to Cal Poly. The ranch has row crops, timber and even a one-third-scale railroad, which was Al’s hobby.
The award, a piece of redwood with a train depicted on it, is presented annually to an individual, business or organization not involved in production agriculture but has done much for the industry.
Also recognized at the luncheon were the winner of the 2025 National Ag Day Poster and Poetry Contests: Juan Carlos Calzetta IV, 5th grade, Santa Cruz Montessori School, poster contest winner, and Agustin Guzman, 12th grade, Renaissance High School, poetry Contest winner.
This year, the organization, Agri-Culture, streamlined its scholarship program so that all students could apply for multiple scholarships if they met the qualifications specified in each one. Winners of these scholarships were announced:
• Jimmie Cox Memorial Scholarship — Samuel Garcia, Aptos High School
• JJ Crosetti, Jr. Memorial Scholarship — Odalis Garcia, Watsonville High School
• Laura Brown Memorial Scholarship — Jonathan Zarate-Gutierrez, Cabrillo College
• Frank Prevedelli Memorial Scholarship
— Andrea Puente, Watsonville High School
• Lou & Carol Calcagno Memorial Scholarship
— Riley Whisler, Salinas High School
• Jeannie Witmer Memorial Scholarship Lillian Mendonsa, Hollister High School
• Matt Ryan Community Service Scholarship
— Sebastian Perez, Watsonville High School
Farm Bureau President Dennis Webb, the master of ceremonies, said, “This event brings agriculture and the broader community together to celebrate local farming.”
He added, “It is also wonderful to honor local students with scholarships, and the countywide Poster & Poetry Contest that had the theme, ‘Grown in Santa Cruz County and the Pajaro Valley.’”
Tom Am Rhein, director emeritus, Agri-Culture, Inc., spoke on the topic “Build a Legacy, Farm to Table.” He focused on individuals or families establishing endowment funds with Agri-Culture, to permanently provide support for purposes important to the donor, and fit into the mission of Agri-Culture.
Notables in attendance include U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta; retired Santa Cruz County Supervisor Zach Friend; Santa Cruz County Supervisors Felipe Hernandez and Kim De Serpa; Watsonville Mayor Maria Orozco; Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County CEO Susan True; Shadowbrook Restaurant owner Ted Burke; longtime CEO of the Ag History Project John Kegebein. n
ABy Teresa Hidalgo Dance
nimal dentists are a breed apart. They work in one of only 20 veterinary specialties recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association. Standing out in such a narrow field is the Dentistry for Animals clinic in Aptos.
Led by Dr. Judy Force, DVM, the animal clinic offers a wide range of services that see to the oral health and care of cats, dogs, and the occasional marine mammal or other wildlife.
Animal dentistry was still on the margins of academic interest when Dr. Force graduated in 1986 from the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of California in Davis.
Nevertheless, Dr. Force was drawn to the specialty and took in every study course she could find, including weekend continuing education classes given by veterinary dentistry pioneers, Drs. Barry Staley and Michael Floyd.
A serendipitous encounter with a backroom of animal dental equipment rounded off her early training. She had asked to shift to general practice at a veterinary hospital in Santa Cruz after the hours at the emergency ward started to wear her thin. Supervisors answered, “We have plenty of general practitioners but we have all this dentistry equipment nobody is using.” Dr. Force became excited. “Really? Where?” she asked.
And that’s how she met her calling in a little unused room, which you got to “through a courtyard and around the corner,” directions much like a map to a hidden treasure which this backroom of dental equipment was to Dr. Force.
Eventually, she would complete a fellowship in animal dentistry in the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry with Michael Floyd as her mentor. She studied much harder and became board certified in veterinary dentistry in 2014, completing her formal education.
Dr. Force practices at her clinic with Dr. Cesar Vega, DMV (her 3rd year resident), and nearly a dozen staff.
The clinic boasts the use of state-ofthe-art technology. The Cone Beam CT which gives advanced 3D imagining is a necessity for nearly all its patients. Their laser therapy helps reverse periodontal disease in cases that can still be treated. A Piezotome machine is on hand for mandibulectomies and maxillectomies.
Dr. Force describes, “We do surgeries for oral tumors and the Piezotome is a wonderful machine for that. It helps with really difficult extractions, especially in older, big dogs.”
The most common dental problems that Dr. Force and her staff encounter are periodontal disease and broken teeth. Dr. Force’s best advice for home care is tooth brushing at least three times per week.
It also helps to give a dental diet and the wise use of treats that double as preventive agents of diseases such as gingivitis and are approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council.
Dr. Force adds that getting pets used to having their teeth brushed at an early age makes a huge difference in their oral health.
Dr. Force’s primary way of giving back to the community of veterinarians is lecturing for the local veterinary association and at the biggest continued education events in the field–the Veterinary Dental Forum in the U.S. and the European Dental Forum. The topics she speaks on generate a lot of interest such as the safe use
of anesthesia for animal dental patients, the important but sometimes unheralded work of feline dentistry, the cone beam CT machine in dentistry, and even marine mammal dentistry based on her involvement with the Marine Mammal Center and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
When the COVID pandemic struck, the European forum slated to be held in Nice, France, was moved online. “I was lecturing from my living room,” said Dr. Force of this time. “I’d rather be in France than in my living room but that’s okay, you know?”
To Dr. Force, the forum’s lectures were paramount, whatever the drawbacks.
Dr. Force wants new veterinary graduates to know that there is more to veterinary dentistry than they think. She’s heartened by veterinary schools working hard to expand the teaching of animal dentistry and making it more accessible.
“Animal dentistry is a big part and
an important part of health care for our animals. So they live longer, healthier, happier, pain-free lives when their mouths are healthy,” said Dr. Force of the onceoverlooked field.
Dr. Force keeps a Dalmatian, two cats, and three horses at her home. As a lover of animals, she says with affection, “I get along well with them. They’re just a little being and they can’t talk so it’s always fun to be able to communicate or figure out what they’re trying to tell you.” She does that exceptionally well at Dentistry for Animals all the time. n
Dentistry for Animals is located at 8035 Soquel Dr., #45, Aptos. Contact them at 831-7687148 or info@dentistryforanimals.com. You can also visit www.dentistryforanimals.com. Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (8-5), and two Saturdays and Mondays per month for appointments.
On March 26, Santa Cruz County officials announced awardees of $200,000 to support legal services for undocumented immigrants and LGBTQ+ community support services in Santa Cruz County.
As directed by the Board of Supervisors on Feb. 25, these funds will be issued expeditiously. Grantees include:
Legal Services for Undocumented Immigrants
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Monterey, $25,000: Free community educational sessions, immigration consultations, and legal representation for low-income individuals on immigration matters.
Community Action Board, Inc., $25,000: Free immigration consultations to identify possible paths to lawful permanent residency, case management, and legal representation on immigration matters.
Watsonville Law Center, $50,000: Legal consultation and representation for immigration matters, including housing, employment, or fraud issues that arise due to a person’s immigration status.
The Diversity Center, $75,000: Free, identity-affirming mental health counseling, peer support groups, wellbeing workshops, and visibility events for LGBTQ+ and allied youth, families, adults, and seniors.
Gay-Straight Alliances, $10,000: With support from the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County, GSAs will create welcoming spaces for LGBTQ+ and their allies throughout Santa Cruz County.
Queer Youth Task Force, $10,000: Expanding access to programming for youth participants across Santa Cruz County, such as the Queer Youth Leadership Awards and studentled workshops on mental health and healthy relationships.
TransFamilies, $5,000: Community outreach, peer counseling, and support groups for families of gender-diverse children and youth of all ages.
Funding for all of these grants comes from the County’s General Fund contingency.
“Recent federal policy changes targeting undocumented
immigrant and LGBTQ+ communities gave rise to an immediate need for resources to protect the health and wellbeing of these county residents,” said Carlos Palacios, county executive officer.
“This is an immediate first step to further our commitment to protect and support immigrant communities as a sanctuary county and our LGBTQ+ communities in their pursuit of health, happiness, and private exercise of bodily autonomy.”
Activities related to these funds are set to commence in upcoming weeks, and grantees will provide comprehensive progress reports to the County in spring and summer 2025.
Palacios is expected to provide an update to the Board of Supervisors regarding these efforts in June.
Adriana Melgoza, executive director, The Watsonville Law Center, said,
“We stand firm in our mission to protect and serve our community, regardless of immigration status, race, religion, gender, or any other characteristic … We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors for their unwavering support and their commitment to justice, equity, and inclusion for all.”
Cheryl Fraenzl, executive director of The Diversity Center, said, “We are deeply grateful for this investment in our LGBTQ+ center during this urgent and unprecedented time for the queer, transgender, and nonbinary community.” n
Find local resources at www.santacruzcountyca.gov/sanctuary
From the time you find out you’re expecting, you dream of the first moment holding your baby. And Dominican Hospital’s Family Birth Center is here to help make that first “hello” as special as your new bundle of joy. We have a team of experts ready to guide you throughout your journey—from specially trained OB/GYN doctors and nurses, to midwives and board-certified lactation specialists. And our Level III NICU offers the highest level of maternity care in the Monterey Bay area should your baby need specialized support. Take a virtual tour of our Family Birth Center at DignityHealth.org/DominicanBirthCenter
Co-MVP
DeMarco Hunter - Santa Cruz - Jr. & Isaiah Ackerman - Aptos - Sr. Coach of the Year Brian Bowyer - Aptos
First Team
Mosiah Cumberbatch - Santa Cruz - Sr.
Jacob Sanders - Scotts Valley - Sr.
Nick Tovani - Aptos - Sr.
Will Shilling - Scotts Valley - Sr.
Nico Ramirez - Soquel - Sr.
Second Team
LJ Legan - Santa Cruz - Soph.
Ryan Solorio - Aptos - Sr.
Owen Warmerdam - Aptos - Sr.
Taylor Knox - Scotts Valley - Sr.
Nolan Westphal - Soquel - Sr.
Honorable Mention
Demian Matlow - Aptos - Sr.
Diego Mejia - Aptos - Jr.
Miles Dix - Harbor - Sr.
Malik Wooden - Harbor - Soph.
Kaden Mirtz - Santa Cruz - Soph.
Guerande Houssin - Santa Cruz - Sr.
Zack Shilling - Scotts Valley - Sr.
Kit Deforest - Scotts Valley - Sr.
Noah Steiger - SLV - Sr.
Wyatt Hammelstrup - SLV - Jr.
Tanner Trowbridge - Soquel - Sr. n
Co-MVP
Brooklyn Williams, Junior (#42) & Samantha
Rebbert, Junior (#10) - both Scotts Valley Coach of the Year
Stu Hurvitz - Scotts Valley
First Team
Claire Skinner - Scotts Valley - Senior (#25)
Abby Sherwood - Aptos -Junior (#30)
Hannah Shehorn - Scotts Valley - Sophomore (#0)
Kina Espinosa - Santa Cruz - Junior (#14)
Mila Conn - Santa Cruz - Sophomore (#10)
Second Team
Ana Maurer - Soquel - Senior (#24)
Abigail Shi - Scotts Valley - Senior (#24)
Berkeley Ashby - Aptos - Senior (#44)
Nadia Delgadillo - Santa Cruz - Sophomore (#1)
Julianne Sanguinetti - Harbor - Sophomore (#1)
Honorable Mention
Lilly McGee - Aptos - Senior
Eliya Chavez - Aptos - Sophomore
Lia LaFrandt - Harbor - Frosh
Ania Sinnott - Santa Cruz - Sophomore
Brianna Fernandez - Santa Cruz - Sophomore
Amaya Guerra - Scotts Valley - Junior
Poppy Owens - SLV - Junior
Neely Pfeiffer - Soquel - Senior
Maddie Barwick - Soquel - Senior n
Special Awards
Player-of-the-Year
Anahi Macias (12) - Aptos - M
Offensive Player-of-the-Year
Isis Gonzalez (11) - Soquel - F
Defensive Player-of-the-Year
Chloe McGilvray (12) - Soquel - D
Goalkeeper-of-the-Year
Ari Flores (10) - Santa Cruz - GK
Coach-of-the-Year
Kim Lyons - SLV
First Team
Isabella Hartnett (10) - Aptos - F
Izzie Schenone (11) - Aptos - D
Alexa Castaneda (11) - Aptos - M
Athena Forbus (10) - Harbor - GK
Lia Gularte (11) - Santa Cruz - M/F
Tamar Deutsch (11) - Santa Cruz - D
Isabella Moriarty (11) - SV - F
Lia Lock (12) - SV - M
Ashlyn Brady (12) - Soquel - D
Trinity Wilson (12) - Soquel - M
Jessica Stoelting (12) - SLV - F
Second Team
Scarlett Stateler (10) - Aptos - F
Izzy Graf (12) - Aptos - D
Emilie Santiago (9) - Aptos - M
Ximena Madrigal (10) - Harbor - D
Hayden Kriege (11) - Santa Cruz - D
Savannah Henry (10) - Santa Cruz - M
Mercedes Lopez (11) - SV - D
Taylor Ericson (10) - SV - F
Arden Sallas (12) - Soquel - M
Haily Betterman (11) - Soquel - D
Naomi Sifton (12) - SLV - M
Honorable Mention
Maddie Redding (11) - Aptos - D
Gigi Zuniga (9) - Aptos - F
Evelyn Pini (11) - Aptos - GK
Ava Bibighaus (12) - Harbor - F
Chloe Simon (12) - Harbor - M
Becca Vaca (12) - Harbor - D
Maeve Golliher (12) - Santa Cruz - D
Elena McCamey (12) - Santa Cruz - M
Bella Talbot (10) - Santa Cruz - D
Jazzy Phillips (11) - SV - GK
Jordan Ericson (12) - SV - M
Dillon Fiorita (12) - SV - M
Isela Gonzalez (12) - Soquel - F
Chloe Izenstark (12) - Soquel - M
Milana Flores (10) - Soquel - D
Samantha Lyons (10) - SLV - D
Natalia Rocha (10) - SLV - M
Simone Mugnier (11) - SLV - D
On March 13, the County of Santa Cruz hosted a ceremony to recognize former Supervisor Greg Caput and the dedication of the community room at
the new county office at 500 Westridge in Watsonville in his honor.
Caput served 12 years as supervisor and among his many causes was
improving the balance of County services between North and South County. The 500 Westridge project was in part a culmination of Caput’s leadership in this area. n
“County Budget” from page 9
The county’s Office of Response, Recovery, and Resilience, with Real Property is looking at obtaining easements over an existing road and private property connecting to county roads for an evacuation route.
Up to $233,495 in funding is necessary to finance planning, negotiation, and related costs. This does not include construction.
One more factor to monitor: Rising pension liabilities due to the California Public Employees’ Retirement System’s underperforming investment portfolio.
As
As of the most recent valuation, the County’s Unfunded Accrued Liability stands at $657.2 million.
For 2024-25, property tax is estimated to be $85 million, which county staff says is not enough to fund current operations, facility needs, 607 miles of unincorporated area roads, and almost annual disaster response. Property tax is expected to grow by 5.23% by 2027-28 from an expected improving housing market.
of the most recent valuation, the County’s Unfunded Accrued Liability stands at $657.2 million.
County staff say this primarily reflects repayments to CalPERS when its investment returns fall below the actuarial discount rate. For example, during the Great Recession, the CalPERS system dropped from being overfunded at 101% in June 2007 to just 61% funded by June 2009.
As for revenues, property tax is one of the most stable but the County receives only 13.4 cents from every dollar of property tax paid. This is because the amount was fixed by Proposition 13 in 1978 when the County was a low property tax county.
Tourism is a major industry but the revenue from the Transient Occupancy Tax is highly variable. For 2025-26, it’s projected to be down $661,000, based on collections. However, Visit Santa Cruz expects growth. Despite the challenges, the County can tout several accomplishments, and Chief Executive Officer Carlos Palacios did when he spoke March 20 to the Aptos Chamber of Commerce.
These include the opening of the South County Government Center in the former West Marine headquarters in Watsonville, launch of Age Well Santa Cruz County Master Plan on Aging, a 22% reduction in those experiencing homelessness, reopening of the Sobering Center, where people under the influence of drugs or alcohol can get connected to treatment by Janus of Santa Cruz instead of being taken to jail, and establishment of the County’s first DNA laboratory. n
“Democratic Problem” from page 8
The proposed train, by contrast, would run just 22 miles between Santa Cruz and Watsonville — far from Silicon Valley, and even farther from where most jobs are located.
A 2015 independent study by respected transportation firm Nelson Nygaard found 32 geographic obstacles in the corridor. It also found that a continuous, wide, multiuse trail without rail would cost far less, serve more people, and be more effective in reducing car trips — particularly for short, local travel.
The official feasibility study, commissioned by the RTC, estimated just 5,500 daily train riders by 2035 — fewer than many urban bike trails currently see. Worse, the “last mile” problem would remain unresolved: Train stations would be far from homes and job centers, making multimodal commuting impractical.
In 2022, local advocates put Measure D on the ballot to realign the county’s vision: Railbank the corridor (preserving the legal right to build a train in the future) and prioritize a wide trail that could be completed now. The Democratic political establishment pushed back hard. Former Governor Jerry Brown, architect of California’s muchmaligned high-speed rail project, recorded robocalls against it. Measure D failed.
And yet, the money to build and operate the train will never come. Politicians privately
admit as much. But rather than confront that reality — or risk alienating activist bases — they allow the performance to continue. In doing so, they provide a playbook for the very resentment that fuels MAGA politics: The perception of a progressive elite more invested in optics than outcomes, ideology than infrastructure.
This is not just a Santa Cruz story.
The same dynamic animates other Democratic strongholds — from San Francisco to New York — where costly, slow-moving projects are justified in language untethered to results. It is not enough to be on the right side of history if you’re also on the wrong side of competence.
Santa Cruz’s rail trail didn’t have to become a cautionary tale. With honest planning, realistic goals, and a commitment to delivering results, it could have become a national model. Instead, it now threatens to be another data point in the story of how good intentions, when poorly executed, drive voters to the arms of those who promise less but deliver more efficiently.
Democrats ignore this lesson at their peril. The public will not support ambitious policy agendas if they don’t believe their leaders can build a mile of trail — on time, on budget, and on purpose. n
Editor’s note: This is the eighth in an ongoing series. •••
Having been in the food business for more than 60 years, I see striking similarities between the creation of art and the making of soup.
The soup analogy isn’t far-fetched at all, because some of the processes are so similar. Just listing one of the primary compositional techniques of drawing, painting, and writing—condensation—makes me think of stirring a big kettle of minestrone.
Condensation can help reduce a work of art or a soup down to its essence.
For example, in drawing and painting, visual artists sometimes squint while observing a subject in order to eliminate unnecessary details. By combining and reducing elements of an image, artists can make it more visually dramatic.
Similarly, writers revise a story by reducing for efficiency and expanding for clarity. They condense passages to avoid
needless repetition; and offer new facts and anecdotes to improve clarity. In soup making we condense a broth to deepen flavor and add extra ingredients to improve texture.
Recipe instructions reveal still other similarities in technique. Just as an artist looks at an object and draws a visual representation but creates something new, we cooks might
By Joe Ortiz
follow the essential outline of a recipe yet tweak it, using our own personal touch, sensibilities, and seasonings. What We Can Learn
In writing, altering the syntax—the order in which words and phrases are placed in a sentence—helps create a convincing narrative argument. Likewise, following a recipe requires a logical order of adding ingredients to the bowl, frying pan, or soup kettle. As Julia Child once said: “A recipe is like a story: it has a beginning, a middle, and an end.”
Specifically, in writing, the task of fixing an unwieldy sentence often comes down to placing the most important phrase in a more meaningful position, usually at the end for emphasis. This also applies to cooking when an experienced cook changes the traditional sequence of adding ingredients to the preparation. As Julia might have agreed, a careful reordering of adding ingredients can boost the flavor of the finished product.
“Joe Ortiz” page 26
By Judge Katherine A. Hansen
Throughout our beautiful state of California, each of our counties has its own esteemed civil grand jury. California’s civil grand jury system is a vital part of the judicial branch of the government, though it functions separately from the courts.
Each county’s civil grand jury operates as an independent investigative and reporting body. The grand jury is appointed with the purpose of researching and choosing areas each year to investigate within our local government. Following their private investigations, the grand jury is tasked with providing a public in-depth analysis of their findings, and any recommendations they have.
and preventing rape and domestic violence in the city of Santa Cruz.
In the 2022-2023 term, our civil grand jury reviewed: Cyber threat preparedness; the future of our local jails; housing our essential workers; the county’s behavioral health crisis; surveillance in the county; county contracts with nonprofit organizations; code compliance; and county response to prior grand jury recommendations.
In the 2021-2022 term, our civil grand jury reviewed: Water conservation; Measure G; Measure S; and measures to reduce wildfire risk.
The goal of the civil grand jury is to improve the operations of local government through investigations and the issuance of written findings and recommendations based on those investigations.
Each county’s grand jury has wide latitude in deciding which topics and entities to review and investigate so that each county may consider their local priorities. Our grand jury reviews the practices and operations of our local agencies, to ensure transparency, accountability, effective use of resources, success in delivery of goals, and alignment with government purposes.
Our county grand juries are chosen once per year. Our Santa Cruz County court will soon begin our process of reviewing applications, interviewing select candidates, and then appointing our 2025-2026 civil grand jury.
We hope you will consider applying. Serving on our civil grand jury is a tremendous opportunity to engage with other committed members of our community, to investigate focused issues in our county, and to contribute to the betterment of our county government agencies.
In recent years, our grand juries have conducted dozens of investigations, in to incredibly important areas.
In the 2023-2024 term, our civil grand jury investigated the following agencies or topics: County local roads; county jail healthcare and reentry support; county Behavioral Health Division; county Child Protective Services; CZU fire victims four years later; inclusionary housing in the city of Santa Cruz; county personnel department;
Each of our yearly grand juries have had a significant impact on our community here in Santa Cruz County. We have seen direct results from the exceptional reports and recommendations prepared by past grand juries, and our past grand jurors have seen how each of their individual voices contributed to changes and improvement to our local government. This in turn benefits each resident of our county.
We are incredibly grateful to our past grand jurors and our current grand jurors, serving us in the 2024-2025 grand jury. To each of our past and current grand jurors, thank you very much for your service, and please consider joining us again to contribute to future grand juries.
Our 2025-2026 grand jury will begin July 1, 2025. Our county’s grand jury is comprised of 19 volunteer members and 11 alternates who serve for a one-year term, with an expected time contribution of approximately 20 hours each week, though this varies depending on each investigation and report.
Our most recent grand juries have been meeting and working together in person, as well as remotely, and have successfully used video conferencing and document-sharing programs; we expect this combination of in-person and remote work to continue.
We are looking for collaborative, committed, open-minded, and thoughtful residents of our county who enjoy contributing to the improvement of our local community. Please consider applying.
“Grand Jury” page 26
With 80% voting in favor, Mar Vista Elementary School will become a transitional kindergarten through eighth-grade (TK-8) school in 2025-26.
The Pajaro Valley Unified School District made the announcement March 26.
PVUSD conducted town hall meetings, informational sessions, surveys, and engaged with parents, educators, and community members to make sure families had all necessary information to make an informed decision.
The results were presented to the PVUSD Board of Trustees as a report and for discussion, which will help shape the next steps in the transition process.
The PVUSD Board of Trustees approved
The Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County announces the Spring 2025 No-Cost Community Chipping Program. The program is available to Santa Cruz County residents who live in areas, defined as the Wildland Urban Interface, that have the potential for wildfire to impact their properties.
the administration request after reviewing survey results, considering community feedback and the implementation plan for a successful transition.
The new configuration comes as the district deals with declining enrollment.
“This vote underscores our district’s dedication to listening to our families and ensuring that the educational model at Mar Vista reflects the needs of our students,” said Dr. Heather Contreras, PVUSD Superintendent. “We are grateful for the active participation of our community as well as with the Board’s approval.”
Many parents expressed strong support for the transition, highlighting the benefits of a TK-8 model for student continuity, academic
growth, and social-emotional development.
“We are thrilled about the news of Mar Vista adding 7th and 8th grade to our campus,” says Stephanie Jacobs, who currently has two children attending Mar Vista Elementary. “This gives both of our kids the opportunity to stay here together longer and continue to develop connections with their peers and the wonderful teachers. Mar Vista isn’t just a school to us. It is a community of families that love and take pride in our sweet little school. We are very grateful for the efforts of PVUSD to engage us in this decision. We look forward to what the future holds for our school!” n
For information, visit www.pvusd.net.
Pre-registration opens at 6 a.m. April 1 and goes through April 30. Chipping starts in May.
Residents who live in recognized FireWise neighborhoods get early bird registration with a special password from their FireWise leaders.
An informational Zoom meeting about the program took place March 18. Why Chipping?
This program incentivizes the clean-up of flammable material and the creation of defensible space around homes in high wildfire risk areas by offering no-cost chipping for residents who trim vegetation within 100 feet of occupied structures or 10 feet on either side of a private road.
“We mostly want to clear the potentially flammable material near our roads and around our houses and create space between the ground and lower tree branches called ladder fuels” explained Laurel Bard, who manages the chipping program for the RCD. “However, we want to be mindful of not over clearing or leaving bare ground, which can lead to overly dry soils in the summer and serious soil erosion in the winter.”
Woodchips are left onsite and can be placed as a ground cover at least five feet from any structures to help keep the ground moist, limit weeds and protect soil.
Having defensible space does not mean you need a ring of bare dirt surrounding your property; with proper planning, you can have a fire safe home and a beautiful landscape.
The general concept is that trees should
be kept farthest from the house, shrubs can be closer, and lawns and bedding plants can be the closest. If your landscaping has a different configuration than this, you can improve defensibility by keeping larger trees limbed up and shrubs free of dead, dry material.
How Does the Program Work?
Signups are first-come-first served, and each household must complete a two-part registration process to be enrolled and confirmed into the program.
Part one is an online pre-registration application to verify space is available, and part two is a chipping schedule form that is
completed once your materials are stacked and ready for chipping.
A detailed map of areas served, deadlines for program applications, chipping dates and guidelines for preparing materials for chipping are posted on the RCD No-Cost Chipping Program page at www.rcdsantacruz.org/ chipping-programs
This program is paid for in part through grants awarded to the RCD from the California Coastal Conservancy, Santa Cruz County Office of Response, Recovery and Resilience, Cal Fire, and private donors. n For more information email Laurel Bard at the RCD at lbard@rcdsantacruz.org
The Santa Cruz County Fair announces the governor has filled a vacancy on the Board of Directors, naming Jody Kolbach One vacancy remains.
Kolbach lives in Watsonville. She has worked for Granite Construction for the last 16 years and currently is senior director of HR services.
Kolbach earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Kansas State University and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Phoenix. She is a Project Management Professional, Black Belt in Continuous Improvement, Human Resource Professional and Change Leader Professional.
Fair staff report planning for the 2025 Santa Cruz County Fair is ahead of schedule. Several exciting new acts are expected this year … as well as everyone’s perennial favorites. With the theme of “Hay Bales, Piggy Tails, and Ewe!” the Santa Cruz County Fair will be Sept. 10-14. n
By Jondi Gumz
Food banks nationwide — including Second Harvest Food Bank — say they will have less food to distribute because of at least $1 billion in federal funding cuts and pauses by the Trump administration.
Second Harvest Food Bank is facing a $700,000 loss of federal funds and calling for community support to bridge the gap.
“Journal X” from page 6
Schools in 46 states and five countries nominated 422 student magazines for the 2024 Recognizing Excellence in Art and Literary Magazines program.
Middle schools, high schools, and higher education institutions competed.
“We are so honored to receive this award,” said Dr. Victoria Bañales, Journal X editorial director and Cabrillo College English instructor. “I am continuously amazed by our student-run Journal X Editorial Board for the time, talent, and care they put into curating each issue, and by our contributors — their talent and creativity shine in the pages of each issue.”
The funding loss came on the heels of a record-breaking holiday campaign that raised enough money for Second Harvest to provide 5,224,998 meals during the year.
Then came the shocking news: Four cancelled deliveries of food worth $250,000 as the U.S. Department of Agriculture began trimming spending under the new Trump administration in light of a $1.8 trillion budget deficit — And a loss of $700,000 as of July 1.
The $500 million Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement and $600 million Local Food for Schools programs, which under the Biden administration in December announced a $1.13 billion investment, were casualties.
Conceived in response to the COVID-19
pandemic, these programs connected 8,000 local producers with 7,900 food banks and food pantries.
Up to $200 million was awarded for states to buy local foods for their National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs.
Reuters reported the USDA said in an email that it had notified states, territories and tribes that the money for fiscal year 2025, “is no longer available.”
Erica Padilla-Chavez, Second Harvest Food Bank CEO, is asking community members to give whatever they can — $1, $100, or $1,000 — to help make up the lost funding.
Give at: donate.foodbank.org.
Every dollar donated provides three healthy meals.
Padilla-Chavez also called for volunteers
Dr. Bañales, the 2025-27 Watsonville Poet Laureate, will host public poetry reading events to advance the literary arts in Watsonville.
to help the
Sign up at https://thefoodbanksantacruz. volunteerhub.com
Board. “Journal X is an amazing journal created by beautiful talent. The feeling of creating a journal that brings together different parts of the world, countries, cultures, backgrounds, and colors is what touched me the most!”
“Being part of the student editorial team for Journal X was an enriching experience,” said Luis Blas, Cabrillo student and Journal X Editorial Board member. “Collaborating with my peers to bring together the creative voices that feature our community’s essence was so gratifying. Receiving this award showcases our dedication and passion for every step of the process.”
“I am still stoked about enrolling in English 1B at Cabrillo College — never in my life did I think I would be part of the editorial board for Journal X with Doctora Victoria Bañales,” said Cabrillo student Marisa RameñoAmezcua, also on the Editorial
“I’m very grateful to be part of Xinachtli Journal (Journal X) as the magazine’s graphic designer,” said Cabrillo student Lorena Lia Mansilla. “It was a pleasure to create a layout that harmoniously combines writings, poetry, illustrations, and photographs. Each element was carefully crafted to reflect the essence of the project, blending graphics and text with typography that reinforced its message. For me, this project was a way to visually contribute to sharing our people’s stories, ensuring that aesthetics and content complement each other perfectly.” n
•••
For information about REALM, see: https:// ncte.org/awards/program-to-recognize-instudent-literary-magazines/.
Read Journal X at https://www.cabrillo.edu/ journal-x/
For decades farmworker communities across California have demanded the right to know beforehand what, when, and where hazardous agricultural pesticides will be applied.
They wanted to be able to take safety precautions against exposure to pesticides drifting from fields. For years these communities have called for an online system that could warn of upcoming toxic pesticide applications.
On March 24, that system finally arrived.
The California Department of Pesticide Regulation launched the new online statewide pesticide notification system called “Spray Days.”
The launch took place in Shafter, near Bakersfield in the Central Valley.
Advocates were pleased.
“This is a first-in-the-world pesticide notification system,” said Californians for Pesticide Reform Co-Director Angel Garcia.
“Since California uses more pesticides than any other state, including more than 130 pesticides that are not approved in the European Union, farmworker communities have demanded a ‘heads up’ in order to take measures to reduce the risk of exposure to our loved ones. We need far better protections from the State, but this is a giant step forward toward transparency about toxic pesticide use.”
The department said the system was developed over four years with extensive public engagement and called it “a firstof-its-kind statewide system that provides information before California restricted material pesticides are used in production agriculture across the state.”
The Spray Days system allows anybody with Web access to search a map of California for notices of intended pesticide applications for the following day (for fumigants, the information will be provided 48 hours in advance).
People can also sign up to receive notices of pending pesticide use through text or email.
The notices will be for restricted material pesticides only — the pesticides considered most hazardous by DPR. Some of these restricted pesticides can cause cancer and damage brains and lungs, among other health harms, the agency said.
Byanka Santoyo, an organizer with the Center on Race, Poverty & the Environment added: “Right here in Shafter, five years ago, our community called on the Ag Commissioner to give us advanced notice of cancer-causing fumigant applications, but he refused. We kept pushing and pushing at AB 617 meetings, at public hearings, at news conferences and protests. Now, not just Shafter, but the whole state will have access to upcoming pesticide information.”
Santa Cruz County has 22.5 childhood cancers per 100,000 children compared to 16.3 statewide, second only to Madera County, according to National Cancer Institute data.
Locally, several schools in the Pajaro Valley Unified School District are located next to farm fields, and last year, the teachers union and the Center for Farmworker Families, filed a lawsuit in Monterey County challenging the approval of pesticide permits that they say have caused harm to the majority-Latino communities.
“Spray Days” page 30
“Grand Jury” from page 21
In these past weeks we have had transits in the sky that may have made humanity feel tired and exhausted, of things not working, a feeling of being back in previous times, and overall a sense of such tiredness that we wonder what is wrong with us?
Here is what is occurring in the heavens, influencing our every moment on earth — physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Our activities on Earth reflect the planetary and star movements in the heavens. That is the study of astrology.
And so, presently we have two retrogrades (Venus and Mercury), Saturn (structure) in Pisces along with Neptune (disappearing act, refinement) and soon Venus, too. In retrograde times, we don’t move forward.
By Risa D’Angeles
of fogs, mists, clouds and illusions, left Pisces (water) and entered Aries (fire). Aries boldly “initiates all things new.”
With planets in Pisces we are lost in a sort of other-worldly wilderness, living behind fogs and veils and remembrances and inner realities. It is a time of retreating into hopes, wishes and dreams. We will feel better after May.
A significant shift with the planet Neptune occurred Sunday, March 30. It represents the changes we are seeing and feeling and changes yet to come. Neptune, one of Earth’s outer planets, ruler
A new self-identity is beginning to appear through this Mercury and Venus retro. There is a deep searching within the self. Who am I? What am I doing? Where am I going? These are your questions. Prepare also for changes in light, color, sun, shadows and rhythms, changes reflected within you, too. Relationships need extra tending. We don’t want anyone to feel cold, alone, withdrawn and left out. A new path appears.
You will be out and about, learning new things, attending lectures, classes, gathering information. You seek freedom and a lessening of limitations and responsibilities. Always your life and its task, illuminating the minds of humanity, are serious and disciplined. It would be good to consider what would be playful for you, bring enjoyment, fun, calling forth your lightness and sense of spontaneity? Perhaps you need to swim.
What constitutes family to you, whether biological, friend, group (esoteric?), colleagues, etc. matters more and more. Something’s not complete with someone or maybe you need to visit to bring forth the next stage in relationship(s). Harmony’s your focus with a touch of compromise (not much). Listening to others until you understand the essential message is a parallel goal. All of this brings love forth — your task. And it is your task in the world, too. Your profession, actually.
Make contact. These two words have a depth most don’t understand. Making contact releases Love. But it must be true, real and intentional contact. It must be from the heart, connecting heart to heart. Love released creates liberation for everyone. However, you are the one to begin this process. Do this ceaselessly, quietly, with heartfelt intention with all kingdoms. Begin in the garden. A travelogue for you would be to visit all the major gardens in the world. And to see the cherry blossoms.
Neptune’s entrance into the fires of Aries creates a generational change The outer planets (Uranus, Neptune, Pluto) are generational planets, meaning they influence and shape generations and once their transit is over, we are no longer what we once were. Neptune, in Pisces, for the last 14 years, has been a time of spiritual refinement, a summoning of mindfulness, inner pilgrimages into other worlds (plant medicine, exploring trauma, death, secrets, UFO’s, other dimensions, meditation, esoteric teachings), and a calling humanity to “love more.”
Neptune leaving Pisces ends a long 163-year cycle. Entering Aries, Neptune brings a subtle awakening, a new religious fervor, a new spiritual self-identity, bold new actions (Mars) and facts (Mercury) that refine humanity. The last time Neptune was in Aries was 1862-75. What was occurring in our world then? That was only a preview of what will happen now.
We will enter into what feels like a “back to the future” reality. What once was and was hidden comes to life again. This time for real. n
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There’s a sense within that you must not only create a new plan concerning finances and resources, but that a new state of values must also come forth. This state of values has to do with sharing. If there are people close to you, you may want to communicate more deeply with them, sharing your morals, ethics and principles, asking what values they hold and what values are held in common. What are your desires and aspirations for the future, based on these ideals?
You will want to come out of the shadows of the past and into a greater light. The light of the present/ future. Standing in shadows, perhaps in the shadow of another is a comfort for you. However, there comes a time when we each must define ourselves, recognize our own self-identity, understand how we love, what we initiate, realize that we’re capable, summon our confidence, and seek a new support system. Am I speaking to Virgo or Pisces? Both. For they are the shadow of the other.
Acquiring Virgo qualities day by day. This morning I saw a drawing of an angel holding out a golden sheaf of wheat. A Virgo symbol of nourishment for humanity. I thought of Libra, and what nourishes them. Relationships, beauty, friends, equilibrium, balance, love, sacrifice, art. It’s the golden art of the wheat sheaf that caught my eye and I thought Librans must get back to their art in whatever form interests them. Some paint, some have galleries, some are collectors. What is your art form so close to your heart?
Do you sense restlessness, that there’s a group that belongs to you, yet somehow you can’t find it or they you? Not yet. As you both search for the other, assess your present and future goals (again). They’ve changed recently or are in the process. So many of us are on the fence, indecisive about the future. We must summon patience. Speak with those close to you. Ask for their visions and goals. Listen with understanding. Creativity is calling. What is it for you?
As the supervising judge of Santa Cruz County’s civil grand jury, I thank you for considering this devotion to a year of public service. Your insight and experience are vital to the success of our local government. Please also encourage others to apply, including your local friends, family, and other community members who you believe could add valuable contributions. n
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For further information, please consider attending an informational meeting at one of our county public libraries:
• April 1 at Capitola Library — Open House from 10 a.m.– 2 p.m. with informational meeting from 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
• April 16 at Felton Library — Open House from 10:30 a.m.- 2 p.m. with informational meeting from 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
For several months, the perfect execution of your creative work is a priority. It always is but a new dimension has been added. Multiple thoughts flow through your mind; you’re being impressed with ideas that may become ideals and later, goals. There’s an inner enthusiasm. A new reality is beginning to appear. Do you sense the need to begin something? Share your ideas with others who love to listen. Diplomacy is paramount. Where is your home these days? What in your home brings forth comfort?
What will you do this spring and summer? Something is calling to you - someone, somewhere. A new communication seems imminent. Maybe it’s a garden deva. Maybe a field of medicinal and edible flowers need to be planted. Perhaps it’s a course of study, something you want (or need) to learn. Somewhere you want to visit, travel to, discover? There also might be something you need to say to someone somewhere far away. Something lovely your way comes (soon).
Take extra care with your money and resources. Use this time to discriminate between what is needed and what is not, what is hoped for and what is unnecessary. Order and organize what you have. Sell of give away what is no longer useful and then give more away. Giving provides us with meaning, a true sense of service. Giving liberates and allows everyone involved to move forward in their lives with happiness and hope. Give to yourself then give of yourself. With love.
We are to do our best wherever we find ourselves. Many of us are uncertain these days, on the fence (uncomfortable) about life, unable to know where we’re going, who we are, what to do when we don’t know what to do, and how to provide our gifts when opportunities don’t seem to exist. Again, we (especially Pisces at this time) are to do our best in the places we find ourselves. Relationships need a bit of kindness, patience and compromise. A bit of surrender, too. You understand.
• April 16 at Scotts Valley Library — Open House from 3:30 – 6 p.m. with informational meeting from 5- 6 p.m.
• April 23 at Watsonville Library — Open House from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. with informational meeting from 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. You can also email jury.information@ santacruzcourt.org with questions, or go to our local civil grand jury website for additional information and to review past reports: https://www.santacruzcountyca. gov/Departments/GrandJury.aspx
“Joe Ortiz” from page 20
I learned this adjustment firsthand in a Louisiana Jambalaya cooking class, when the “holy trinity” of diced onion, celery, and bell pepper—a variation on the French mirepoix mixture of onion, celery, and carrot—was the third ingredient added to the preparation instead of the first, which is traditional in many dishes. Because the instructor encouraged students to add the mirepoix after the sausage was sauteed—and give it a good, strong browning to concentrate the mixture—the result helped to achieve the earthy flavor of the Jambalaya. What Can We Do?
I think we’d all admit that creative home cooks are often compelled to give a recipe their own stylistic interpretation, the cook’s turn of hand that can achieve unique flavors. But many of us might also agree that, in our consumption of literature, a “great read” is so much more than a listing of the facts, details, and argument. In fact, it’s the writer’s personal style that makes a story come to life. By adding, subtracting, and letting the “flavors” meld, both artist and cook fashion a unique concoction. The results may resemble the original subject (for the artist) or recipe (for the cook), but during the “cooking,” we add that unique twist, depending on how much we reduce the broth or the narrative, concentrate the flavors or meaning, or alter the order of ingredients as we place them in the kettle or on the page. n
Reader response: I’d love to hear your comments and questions. Email me at joe@gocapitola.com.
Every April 22, people around the world come together for Earth Day, a movement dedicated to environmental protection and sustainability. Since its start in 1970, Earth Day has highlighted critical issues like climate change, pollution, and conservation. One essential yet often overlooked concern is groundwater protection — key to our drinking water supply, ecosystems, and even the health of our oceans.
stored beneath the Earth’s surface in aquifers — sustains nearly half of the U.S. population. Unlike rivers and lakes, it remains unseen, making it easy to forget. Yet, as climate challenges intensify, safeguarding this vital resource is more crucial than ever.
For Soquel Creek Water District, groundwater is the sole source of drinking water. It also supports local creeks, wetlands, and coastal ecosystems, including the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary — one of the most ecologically diverse marine environments. However, coastal communities face a serious threat: seawater intrusion. As freshwater levels drop, saltwater seeps into underground aquifers, permanently contaminating drinking water sources. Without action, this can render wells unusable and create a significant water crisis.
preventing saltwater from contaminating drinking water sources.
• Providing a sustainable local supply — Rather than relying solely on rainfall, the project ensures a drought-resistant water source, ensuring a reliable supply for future generations.
• Protecting Monterey Bay — By reusing treated wastewater that would otherwise be discharged into the ocean, the project reduces pollution and helps preserve marine ecosystems.
• Enhancing climate resilience — With climate change leading to unpredictable rainfall and longer droughts, the project ensures a steady supply of clean water, regardless of future weather patterns.
Earth Day serves as an important reminder that our planet’s resources are finite and must be managed responsibly.
Groundwater is a hidden but essential part of the environment, and it’s up to all of us to protect it.
To address groundwater overdraft and seawater intrusion, Soquel Creek Water District developed Pure Water Soquel (PWS) — an advanced water purification project that replenishes the aquifer, safeguards our drinking water, and reduces wastewater discharge into Monterey Bay.
Using a cutting-edge purification process, PWS treats recycled wastewater to an ultra-pure standard, ensuring it is safe for groundwater recharge. Instead of sending treated wastewater into the ocean, 25% is captured and purified, reducing pollution and creating a drought-proof water supply. PWS is currently in the startup and commissioning phase of the project. To learn more about the project visit purewatersoquel.com
Key benefits include:
• Preventing seawater intrusion — By replenishing the groundwater basin with purified water, Pure Water Soquel helps maintain a freshwater barrier,
There are steps we can take every day to contribute to groundwater sustainability: Reduce water waste — Small changes, like fixing leaks and using water-efficient appliances, help preserve our water supply. Prevent pollution — Avoid using harmful chemicals that can seep into groundwater, and dispose of hazardous materials properly.
Support groundwater recharge efforts — Projects like Pure Water Soquel play a crucial role in replenishing groundwater and protecting it for future generations.
Educate and advocate — Raising awareness about groundwater issues and supporting policies that promote sustainability can help ensure long-term water security.
This Earth Day, let’s commit to valuing and protecting our groundwater. Through innovative projects like Pure Water Soquel, we’re securing our water future while preserving the incredible ecosystems of Monterey Bay.
By recognizing the importance of groundwater and embracing sustainable solutions, we can ensure clean, reliable water for generations to come — while maintaining the natural beauty and biodiversity of our coastal environment. n
By Rebecca Gold Rubin
Qualifications Include:
Strong Computer Skills • Working Knowledge of MS Office
Experience using MAC computers
Self Starter & Self Motivated
SUPERVISOR KIM DE SERPA OFFICE HOURS
County Supervisor Kim De Serpa invites residents to attend her upcoming office hours, providing an opportunity for community members to share concerns, ask questions, and discuss local issues directly with their County Supervisor.
Residents are encouraged to stop by during the following office hour sessions:
Tuesday, April: 3– 5 pm — Aptos Library Conference Room: 7695 Soquel Drive
Friday, April 11: 10 am to noon — La Selva Beach Library, 316 Estrella Avenue
Thursday, April 24: 2-4 pm — Corralitos CalFire Station: 120 Eureka Canyon Road, Watsonville
Wednesday May 7: 3-5 pm — South County Service Center, 790 Green Valley Road, Watsonville
Topics of discussion may include local government services, public safety, housing, infrastructure, and other key community concerns. Supervisor De Serpa welcomes input from all constituents and encourages residents to bring their questions and ideas.
“These office hours are an important way to hear directly from the community,” said De Serpa. “I look forward to meeting with residents and working together to address their concerns and priorities.”
For more information or to reserve a specific time to meet with Supervisor De Serpa, contact her office at second.district@ santacruzcountyca.gov.
The County of Santa Cruz announces the appointment of the Measure Q Citizens Oversight Advisory Board, responsible for ensuring transparency and accountability in the implementation of Measure Q parcel tax funds.
The first public meeting will be Wednesday, April 16. Under Measure Q, each member of the Board and each city appoints one member. The new members are:
Julieann Howard – District 1 appointee
Dennis Webb – District 2 appointee
Sandy Brown – District 3 appointee
Julissa Espindola – District 4 appointee
Mark Correira – District 5 appointee
Abel Sanchez – Watsonville appointee
David Sanguinetti – Scotts Valley appointee
Rachel Dann – Santa Cruz appointee
Scott Harway – Capitola appointee
Approved by Santa Cruz County voters in November 2024 with 60% support, Measure Q is expected to generate $7.3 million annually through a parcel tax of $87 per year to protect water quality, clean beaches, wildlife habitats, and reduce wildfire risks.
Funds will be distributed countywide for various projects, including conservation efforts, wildfire prevention, and improvements to parks and open spaces.
The Citizens Oversight Advisory Board will approve five-year Vision Plans to guide the investment of Measure Q funds and receive reports from agencies and organizations implementing projects to ensure funding aligns with Measure Q’s environmental and community goals.
For info, visit www.santacruzcountyca.gov/MeasureQ.aspx
The 8th annual Santa Cruz Launchpad career fair and student pitch competition is returning on Wednesday, May 21, at the Coconut Grove, 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz. Last year’s event drew in over 500 job seekers, making it the place to be for employers looking to hire or build their talent pipeline. Employers from all industries with any type of opening (internships, part-time, full-time, etc.) are welcome.
The job fair portion of the event is from 5-7 p.m. Registration is free to Santa Cruz Works partners, $250 for others, reduced rate for nonprofits.
Space is limited, and registration closes on Wednesday, April 30. Sign up at www.santacruzworks.org/sclaunchpad
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
Project Scout offers volunteer income tax assistance and tax counseling for local residents during tax season at sites throughout Santa Cruz County.
Volunteers are trained by Internal Revenue Service and Franchise Tax Board personnel. For disabled individuals unable to get to the tax sites, they have trained volunteers who can do in-home tax preparation.
Seniors get priority at all library sessions. Income of $64,000 and below, simple returns only.
The Project Scout schedule for libraries is:
• Aptos Tuesdays 10am – 1 pm Feb. 4 thru April 15
• Capitola Wednesdays 2 – 5 pm Feb. 5 thru April 16
• Downtown Tuesdays 10am – 3 pm Feb. 4 thru April 15
• Downtown Saturdays 10am – 3 pm Feb. 1 thru April 12
Appointments are necessary for tax help and can be made by calling 831-427-7713 or by visiting the Downtown or Capitola Branch Library Information Desk.
For info, call the Watsonville Office at 1-831-724-2606 or toll-free at 1-877-373-8297, or visit https://seniorscouncil. org/project-scout/
MIKE ROWE WORKS SCHOLARSHIP
For the eleventh year in a row, Mike Rowe Works Foundation is launching the next Work Ethic Scholarship Program and giving away another $2,500,000 in scholarships.
He’s looking for hardworking men and women who will keep the lights on, water running, and air flowing — people who will show up early, stay late, and bust their asses to get the job done.
It’s not for everyone, but he knows hard workers are out there.
Apply at https://mikeroweworks.org/scholarship/
PG&E OFFERS FREE GAS APPLIANCE SAFETY CHECKS
To help customers prepare their gas appliances for safe use during the cold weather months, Pacific Gas and Electric Co. is offering free in-home gas safety checks. During the gas safety checks, PG&E will re-light pilot lights for customers who have heaters or other appliances that have been turned off during warmer months.
Free safety checks help ensure that gas appliances, including water heaters, furnaces and ovens, are operating safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning within the home.
Carbon monoxide is especially dangerous because it can’t be seen, smelled or heard.
“This free safety program is a great way for customers to prepare for increased use of their natural gas appliances as the cold season approaches. One of our gas team members will conduct safety inspections to help ensure that gas appliances are in proper working order
and also relight pilot lights,” said Joe Forline, PG&E senior vice president, gas operations.
Before the colder winter months when natural gas appliances typically see the most use, PG&E encourages customers to schedule an inspection by visiting www. pge.com/pilotlights. Scheduling your appointment online is free and easy and will help you avoid hold times on our customer service line.
Customers can also call 800-743-5000 to schedule appointments.
If you suspect carbon monoxide in your home, you should get out immediately and call 911. If a PG&E customer ever smells the distinctive “rotten egg” odor of natural gas in or around their home or business, they should immediately evacuate and then call 911 and PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.
The Community Traffic Safety Coalition invites parents and guardians of 6th – 12th graders in Santa Cruz County to complete an online survey about e-bikes by April 11.
Elecric bikes have increased in popularity among youth; as such, there is an increased need for educational campaigns surrounding safe e-bike practices, particularly among parents and guardians of adolescents, county officials say.
CTSC aims to use the results of the survey to tailor future educational outreach efforts.
The survey is available in English and Spanish. English: https://bit.ly/SCC_Ebike_Survey Spanish: https://bit.ly/SCC_Ebike_Encuesta
The survey flyers have also been distributed to 6th –12th schools and local community hubs. Survey results will be shared in late spring. If you have any questions want to get involved, contact Kelly Curlett at Kelly.Curlett@santacruzcountyca.gov.
Saturdays
Saturday Shakespeare • 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
The play will be Timon of Athens Timon is one of the less-often performed Shakespeare plays. He is immensely wealthy and his generosity makes him extremely popular, until his money runs out.
CABRILLO JOB & INTERNSHIP FAIRS
Two dates are set:
• Tuesday, April 22 from 4-6 pm Watsonville Center
• Wednesday, April 23 from 11 am-1 pm Aptos Campus-Upper Quad
Meet with local employers to learn about a variety of job & internship opportunities. Have your current resume reviewed and edited.
Check out the Seahawk Job Board at https://www. cabrillo.edu/career-services/jobs/ For questions, email StudentJobs @cabrillo.edu
Pajaro Valley Arts honors Coeleen Kiebert, a renowned sculptor and educator based in Rio del Mar, with an exhibition, Art & Spirit, through May 4 that celebrates her legacy and the work of her long-time students, showcasing innovative and unique processes that empowers the practice of art.
With a master’s degree from UC Santa Cruz, she works in ceramic and bronze and for 40 years she has taught the psychology of the creative process.
The exhibition is curated by Joan Blackmer.
Kiebert will give a workshop, How a Doodle Becomes a Great Work of Art, Sunday, April 6, from 1 – 4 p.m. at PVA Gallery, 37 Sudden St., Watsonville. The closing reception will be 2-4 p.m. Sunday, May 4, at PVA Gallery, 37 Sudden St., Watsonville.
COUNTY FAIR BOARD MEETINGS
The Santa Cruz County Fair Board will meet most months at 1:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday in the Heritage Building at the fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Blvd., Watsonville.
Upcoming Meetings: April 22, May 27, June 24, July 22, Aug. 26, and Oct. 28; none in September. Dates in November and December have not yet been decided. For agendas, posted 10 days in advance, see santacruzcountyfair.com
Mondays
LEARN TO PLAY BRIDGE
10 a.m.-Noon, Santa Cruz Bridge Center, 2450 17th Ave. Nancy Wainer teaches beginner bridge classes at the Santa Cruz Bridge Center.
Come and check out the world’s greatest game! First class is free. Reserve a spot via emai: NLMBRIDGE@yahoo.com.
Applications are now open for the 39th class of Leadership Santa Cruz County. If you are in a leadership role and want to connect with leaders in our community, learn about our county, and hone leadership skills along the way, you can apply.
Participants must commit to 9 Fridays and a two-day retreat from August through June. There is a detailed description of the program and topics at leadershipsantacruzcounty.org/apply.
The deadline to apply is April 30. Scholarships are available.
BRIDGE CLUB
10:30 a.m.-Noon, 7695 Soquel Dr, Aptos, CA 95003
The Aptos Branch Library hosts 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.
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
Thursdays
HAPPY HOUR
5-7 p.m., California Coffee, 9105 Soquel Drive, Aptos California Coffee in Redwood Village hosts an open mic happy hour every week.
Third Thursdays SPRING WELLNESS SERIES
6-7 p.m. (arrive at 5:30 p.m.), Pilgrim’s Way Bookstore & Secret Garden, Dolores Street between 5th & 6th, Carmel-by-the-Sea Pilgrim’s Way Bookstore & Secret Garden, nestled in the
heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, launches a Spring Wellness Series.
The series is designed to introduce attendees to local healing professionals and their transformative practices.
Seating allows 5 to 12 participants a rare chance for deep connection, hands-on learning, and personal rejuvenation.
Tickets are $25 per session per person, and advance reservations are required.
Upcoming events:
April 17 – Sound Immersion with Kiana & Kathleen
This experience will combine toning, breathwork, and the resonant frequencies of crystal bowls, chimes, and spoken word to help release stagnant energy, activate relaxation, and restore harmony to the body and mind.
• Kathleen, a certified sound healer, uses vibrational sound therapy to encourage self-acceptance, creativity, and spiritual awakening. Instagram: @ healingharmonics4u
• Kiana, also certified in sound healing, incorporates Tibetan singing bowls into her practice, helping others find relief from chronic pain and stress. Information: www. ventanawildwellness.com
May 15 – Movement, Awareness & Energy with Domini Anne
A session blending anatomy, neuroscience, and energetic practices for enhanced self-awareness and well-being. Domini Anne will introduce participants to movement techniques designed to improve posture, release tension, and cultivate vitality.
Information: www.dominianne.com
Reserve a seat at https://www.pilgrimsway.com/event
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.
Saturdays beginning April 27
SATURDAY SHAKESPEARE
April 27-May 25 online: See https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/ event/12190276 for details
First Saturdays
CAPITOLA BEACH CLEANUP
9-10 a.m., Esplanade Park
Help preserve and maintain the coastal beauty of Capitola. Join a beach cleanup every month at Esplanade Park. Keep Capitola Salty is a grassroots movement dedicated to responsible efforts helping to maintain and preserve the environment, scenic beauty and coastal recreational activities of Capitola. This movement is always looking for volunteers. Email KeepCapitolaSalty@gmail.com.
Second Saturdays
HISTORICAL AIRCRAFT DISPLAY
10 a.m.-4 p.m., Watsonville Municipal Airport, 100 Aviation Way Watsonville Municipal Airport hosts a Historical Aircraft Display every second Saturday. Admission is free.
Third Sundays
MONTEREY BAY AREA CACTUS AND SUCCULENT SOCIETY
12 p.m., Corralitos Grange Hall #487, 165 Little Corral Way, Watsonville The nonprofit Monterey Bay Area Cactus and Succulent
Friday April 4 • Saturday April 5
Fri: 7 p.m., Henry J. Mello Center, 250 E Beach St, Watsonville. Sat: 2 p.m., Peace United Church, 900 High St, Santa Cruz
The Watsonville Community Band will feature acclaimed actress and vocalist Judy Norton in concert at the Henry J. Mello Center in Watsonville on Friday and Saturday at Peace United Church in Santa Cruz. Admission is free.
The performance, entitled “Lions, Tigers, & Marches! Oh My!” will showcase Judy’s artistry as she sings songs by George Gershwin and **Over the Rainbow** by Harold Arlen. The Band will perform a wide variety of marches, Broadway show tunes, and band classics.
The young and aspiring musicians of the Watsonville Youth Band will also perform at the Mello Center’s performance.
You may not know Judy Norton’s name, but you know her face. She starred nine years in the Emmy Award winning series “The Waltons.” Since then, she has gone on to numerous television guest-starring roles in film and television while also working in stage productions in the US and Canada.
Society meets every third Sunday at Corralitos Grange Hall.
The society contributes to the study and cultivation of succulents, cacti and other droughttolerant 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).
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.
Saturday April 5
MUTT STRUT & MARKET
1-3 p.m., 151 Aptos Village Way (behind New Leaf Market)
The Aptos Chamber of Commerce will host the Mutt Strut & Market at 151 Aptos Village Way behind New Leaf Market. Entry Fee: One Dog — $10; Two Dogs — $15; Three Dogs — $20. Questions? Call 831-688-1467 or e-mail chamberaptos@gmail.com
Wednesday April 9
CRIME VICTIMS VIGIL
6 p.m., Santa Cruz County Courthouse Steps, 701 Ocean St. Since 1981, National Crime Victims’ Rights Week has been recognized across the U.S. to support crime victims and remove barriers to achieving justice for all those impacted by crime.
This year, National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is April 6-12. To commemorate this event, the Santa Cruz County
Saturday April 12
TWO PLANT SALES!
9 a.m. –1 p.m., Cabrillo College Horticulture Center, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos
Cabrillo College’s Horticulture Department will celebrate 50 years and host the Santa Cruz County chapter of the California Native Plant Society’s spring native plant sale.
Come early; there is limited parking and plants can sell out fast. Carpooling is encouraged.
Highlights of the event:
Featured Artist — Lili Arnold, Botanical Illustrator Cabrillo Ceramics Department — Unique, handcrafted treasures
Empanada Pop-Up — Fonda Felix serving up tasty bites Plants: Native Plants, Water-Wise Perennials & Shrubs, Succulents & Cacti, Organic Veggie Starts, Houseplants, Unusual Plant Collection curated by Cabrillo instructor Nicky Hughes Visit www.cruzcnps.org for more info.
SECOND SATURDAY ON THE FARM
11 a.m.–3 p.m., Santa Cruz Cunty Fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville Ag History Project hosts 2nd Saturday on the Farm at the Santa Cruz Cunty Fairgrounds, and the theme will be “Easter on the Farm.” Kids can join in the ever-popular Easter Egg Hunt.
Admission is free and donations are gladly accepted.
Bring your lunch and enjoy a picnic on the lawn or at the picnic Tables.
Wednesday April 16
District Attorney’s Victim Witness Assistance Program will host a Candlelight Vigil on the steps of the county courthouse to remember and honor homicide victims and their families.
The event will include a “Ceremony of Names.”
Members of the public are invited. Participants should meet on the steps of the courthouse. No registration is necessary; all are welcome. For questions, call (831) 454-2010.
Thursday April 10
PV CHAMBER BUSINESS EXPO & JOB FAIR
4-7 p.m., Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds’ Crosetti Hall, 2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville
Are you ready to Rock Your Business? The Pajaro Valley Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture’s Business Expo and Job Fair is coming to the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds.
It’s going to be bigger and better than ever, and you definitely need to be there.
Businesses, this is where you will meet new customers and find great employees. Spaces are limited and this event sells out each year, so sign up today.
This is a fun event. It’s amazing how much action can be packed into three hours. Businesses who are looking for great employees and job seekers searching for employment opportunities are sure to make outstanding connections.
This is a county-wide public event and everyone is welcome. Many lasting business relationships have been formed at the Pajaro Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Business Expo & Job Fair.
There will be a vast collection of prizes, food and fun. Admission is free!
CARMEL WOMAN’S CLUB CELEBRATES AUTHORS 5-7 p.m., Carmel Woman’s Club, Carmel (at 9th & San Carlos) The Carmel Woman’s Club, established in 1925, is celebrating its 100th year anniversary with special activities such as Author’s Night 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, April 16 at 9th and San Carlos, Carmel. This year, the first, celebrates twelve published authors in the membership. They are: Kathryn Gualtieri, Kathleen Ambro, Cheryl Beller, Jill Cody, Diane Danvers Simmons, Dawn Dull, Dana Schwartz, Barbara Siebenrick, Deborah Smith, Flo Speck, Kirsten Tarman, and Lisa Crawford Watson. These authors are excited to share their stories and will be available to meet with attendees in a casual setting with refreshments provided. There will be a 45- minute panel discussion with four of the authors, moderated by Tonya Antle, program chairperson for the Carmel Woman’s Club. The event is free and open to the public.
Thursday April 17
JOBY AVIATION AT APTOS CHAMBER LUNCH
11:30 a.m.–1 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Drive, Aptos. Local business leaders and community members are invited to the April Aptos Chamber Luncheon at the Seascape Golf Club to engage with Joby Aviation — one of the most innovative companies in the aviation industry.
Attendees will learn how the company’s electric air taxi and the Joby app could shape the future of Aptos’s transportation.
General admission $35, reservations required. No walk-ins. (831) 688-1467, aptoschamber.com
Thursday April 17 and Saturday, April 19
VEGETABLE GARDENING CLASSES
Thurs.: 5:30 – 7 p.m., Online class Sat.: 10 a.m. – Noon, Pinto Lake County Park, 757 Green Valley Rd., Watsonville
UC Master Gardeners of Monterey, San Benito & Santa Cruz Counties offer a 2-part class on growing vegetables.
Central Fire Chief Jason Nee, 50, will retire this year. He joined Central Fire in 1999. He lives in Santa Cruz with his wife of 22 years and has two children, a son in college and a daughter who is a high school senior. He also has a chocolate lab named Coco.
In an email interview, he shared highlights of his service.
•••
Was there a moment you knew you wanted to get into firefighting?
What drew you to the job?
During college, my father set up a ridealong with San Jose Fire and Central Fire Santa Cruz through some acquaintances.
My first ride-along was at San Jose Fire Station 1, one of the busiest fire stations in the nation. I was amazed at the skills, knowledge and expertise that the fire crew possessed that I knew nothing about.
During my first ride-along at Central Fire Santa Cruz, I found myself holding the infant of a patient during a medical incident. I had never held a child at that point in my life and it was clear to me that the dynamic nature of the job was enticing, and I was open to the challenge.
How has the job of firefighting changed since you started?
The fire service has become more accountable, more aware, and more professional than when I started. The fire service overall is much more aware and open to creating a healthy work environment to prevent cancer, behavioral health issues, and maintaining physical fitness.
The fire service is also providing more services than we ever have before. Many agencies in the state are providing
“Spray Days” from page 25
Erika Alfaro, a public health nurse in Northern California and member of Safe Ag Safe Schools, said, “We love the pesticide map-system and the opportunity to get text notices. With this information, for the first time, agricultural communities can take the proper health precautions by closing windows and doors, taking clothes off the line, and allowing the especially vulnerable — like pregnant or asthmatic individuals — to stay indoors at home, work, or school.”
Advanced Life Support through the staffing of firefighter/paramedic staff. Other agencies provide ambulance transportation services. Locally, there are agencies that provide ocean rescue and technical rescue services.
What was your scariest day on the job? Ihave never thought about this question before.
I remember responding as part of statewide mutual aid to the Rim Fire near Yosemite in 2013. I had never seen a smoke column with the size and anger that smoke column had. At the time, it was the 3rd largest fire in California history, that mark has since been surpassed.
I recall responding to the Martin Fire in Bonny Doon in 2008. We drove through very dangerous situations to arrive at our assignment.
The scariest day is easily the day I was promoted to Fire Chief.
You became chief in 2022 during the Covid pandemic. How did the pandemic change your job?
Before Covid, I didn’t know much about the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). During Covid, we were forced to follow the ever-changing guidelines of CDPH on what seemed like a weekly basis.
If you recall, there was confusion everywhere you turned for guidance. The real challenge was updating policy to reflect the changing recommendations and ensuring that the communication of those changes was understood by the staff.
The job frequently transitioned from administrator to public health expert and back.
Irene Gomez of Oxnard resident, a member of the Coalition Advocating for Pesticide Safety — Ventura County or CAPS 805, raised a remaining concern: “When my community in Nyeland Acres had the pilot notification project, our biggest issue was that you couldn’t find out exactly where the pesticides would be applied – which farm? That’s still a problem with Spray Days. You can only know pesticides are being applied within a square mile, but not whether it’s coming from behind your house, across the street, or even a mile away.”
Firefighting is a statistically risky profession. What can be done to make it safer? There are numerous factors that could make the career of a firefighter safer.
These include cultural acceptance of behavioral health challenges, preventative measures to minimize exposure to cancer-causing products of combustion and continuous training and development of staff to maintain a safe working environment in dangerous, challenging situations.
What do you wish local residents knew about Central Fire?
The men and women of Central Fire work very hard to provide the best service possible in a challenging, dynamic environment.
There are many issues that all local governments face, and Central Fire is not immune to the pressures of rising costs for apparatus and construction, climate change, and staffing challenges.
Despite these pressures, we continue to provide excellent service with safe and professional staff.
What would you tell somebody who was starting out in the firefighting business today?
If you love your job, you will never work a day in your life.
The fire service is an honorable occupation that can create lifelong friendships and exciting opportunities, all while providing an invaluable service to the community.
There is significant purpose in the work that the fire service does, and there is no better purpose than to help your community in their time of need.
What made you decide it was time to retire? Ihad planned on retiring on my 50th birthday, during the first 20 years of my
It is possible such concerns can be addressed through the Spray Days review process, which calls for an Environmental Justice Advisory Committee and the California Department of Food & Agriculture to make annual recommendations for changes, as well as a yearly public comment period. n
For information, see https://www.facebook. com/safeagsafeschools/
For Spray Days information, visit https://www. cdpr.ca.gov/pesticide-use-in-california/spraydays/
career. Once promoted to the position of Fire Chief, I realigned my wants and expectations to better align with the organization’s needs.
There is a natural lifespan to this position that has run its course. Most of my generation of employees have already left or will soon. I do not want to hinder the organization by staying too long, and prevent other motivated members from continuing to move the organization forward.
I would rather be asked to stay than asked to leave.
What will you do in your retirement?
In retirement, I want to focus on my physical and mental health, as well as spend time with my family.
These dimensions of my life have been neglected due to my career path, and they deserve attention. n
Meet our Pet of the Week, Athena (#A315679) — the adorable grey tabby and white sweetheart!
Her recent foster reports: “Athena is a pretty kitty full of love for people and enthusiasm for brushies! She likes to have a little dose of play, and then quickly settles into cozy slumber into Dreamland. She is an easy cat and happy to just hang out in a soft spot near humans. Athena would make a great work from home best friend!” .
Athena is looking for an adoptive home that will keep her on a special diet due to suspect inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This will require more frequent vet visits and monitoring but sweet, soulful Athena is oh so worth it.
Athena’s adoption fee has been sponsored by the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter Foundation! 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. (Arrive before 4 p.m. for “meet and greet”)
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
First a Zoom class on Thursday, then with a hands-on demonstration Saturday at Pinto Lake County Park.
Get your seeds / transplants in the ground and off to a good start. Topics include watering, thinning, weeding, and fertilizing to keep them growing strong and healthy.
The demo will be in the Master Gardener Watsonville Demo Garden and will build on the information provided in the online class.
The class is free, but donations are appreciated. Register at mbmg.ucanr.edu
Friday April 18
STATE OF WATSONVILLE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
8-10 a.m., Watsonville Civic Plaza Community Room (top floor), 275 Main St. Watsonville Community Hospital invites the community to the State of the Hospital event at Watsonville Civic Plaza Community Room.
CEO Stephen Gray will share key accomplishments since the hospital’s return to public ownership in 2024 and discuss exciting plans for the future of healthcare in our community.
Saturday April 19
EGG HUNT EGGSTRAVAGANZA
1-5 p.m., Pinto Lake City Park, 451 Green Valley Road, Watsonville
The city of Watsonville hosts Egg Hunt Eggstravaganza for kids ages 3-13 at Pinto Lake City Park. No charge to attend.
There will be an Egg Hunt, food trucks, photos with the Easter Bunny and inflatables.
Wednesday April 23
FLY FISHING FILM TOUR
Emerging Leader Award: Laurel Maxwell • Youth Leader of the Year Awards: Alexandra Rojas & Adrian Ramirez
• Youth Champion of the Year Award: Meggie Pina
Join us as we celebrate the spirit of collaboration and commitment that drives our mission forward. Together, we are creating a stronger, more resilient Santa Cruz County for all.
Tickets are $125 each at: unitedwaysc.org/awards
Saturday April 26
DOWNTOWN LIBRARY FESTIVAL
1-4 p.m., Corner of Cedar & Lincoln Streets, Santa Cruz Come experience the future Downtown Library through an immersive preview.
The stage will be set with large-scale renderings of the new library’s rooms, live music, and food trucks.
Project partners will give the latest updates. Join the free library programs and hands-on activities for children, teens, and adults. You will be amazed by what you can do in the library!
Friends of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries will be on site for the official fundraising kickoff of the Downtown Library Capital Campaign where a gift of any size given on this special day will get your name recognized inside a library book.
To learn more, visit: https://www.friendsofsantacruzlibraries.org/ downtown/
Sunday April 27
THE SURFERS PATH HALF MARATHON
7 a.m.-Noon, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach St.
The Surfers Path Half Marathon is an exhilarating 13.1mile journey from Santa Cruz to Capitola and back. Commencing at the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the event embarks on an eastward expedition along the captivating coastline.
© Statepoint Media
6 p.m., Woodhouse Blending & Brewing, 119 Madrone St, Santa Cruz
The Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club presents the 19th Annual “Fly Fishing Film Tour” at 6 pm Wednesday, April 23, at Woodhouse Blending & Brewing located at 119 Madrone off River Street in Santa Cruz.
This traveling event showcases the best fly fishing films from around the world promising stunning cinematography, unforgettable stories, and the excitement of fly fishing in remote locations.
Admission is $25 which includes a chance at great door prizes. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.
For info and to purchase tickets visit: www.santacruzflyfishing.org
Wednesday April 24
UNITED WAY ANNUAL AWARDS CELEBRATION
6:30-8:30 p.m., Dream Inn, 175 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz United Way of Santa Cruz County’s Annual Awards Celebration will be 6:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 24 at the Dream Inn in Santa Cruz.
This special evening will recognize the outstanding individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made a lasting impact in our community through their dedication and generosity.
This is the first recognition since Yvette Lopez Brooks became CEO.
The honorees are: Volunteer Champion Award: UPS • Community Spirit Award: K & D Landscaping • Partner of the Year Award: COE - Youth Led Leadership Alliance • Employee Campaign Manager Award: Fiona Weigant • Women in Philanthropy Award: Mari Rossi •
Runners are treated to a scenic tour, passing by notable landmarks including the Santa Cruz Harbor, Moran Lake, and the renowned Pleasure Point before navigating the turn-around loop through the picturesque Capitola Village. The course features oceanfront views of world-famous surf breaks, leading to the triumphant finish on the pristine shores of Cowell’s Beach.
Information: https://www.runsurferspath.com/surfers-path-halfmarathon.
Thursday May 1
MONTEREY BAY ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP: REGIONAL OUTLOOK
8 a.m.–4 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Drive, Aptos MBEP, which turns 10 this year, hosts the 2025 Regional Economic Outlook at Seascape Golf Club. Delve into key insights and perspectives on the economic landscape of Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Benito counties. This year’s keynote address and economic outlook will be provided by Jon Haveman, executive director, National Economic Education Delegation and an expert on trade policy, followed by a discussion with veteran political consultant Mike Madrid based on his latest book, The Latino Century. Learn about the regional work being done across the Central Coast and Monterey Bay by: Uplift Central Coast, Regions Rise Together, and Monterey Bay Tech Hub. Additional speakers to be announced. Registration is $119 for members, $149 early bird through April 11 at www.mbep.biz/events/2025-regional-economic-outlook n
