Aptos Times March 15th 2012 by Times Publishing Group, Inc.

March 15 2012

C O M M U N I T Y N E W S T H AT M A K E S A D I F F E R E N C E

Vol 21 No. 6

Serving Aptos, La Selva Beach, Corralitos, Freedom, Watsonville, & Pajaro

Plastic Bag Ban Takes Effect in Santa Cruz County

No Plastic Bags after March 20

anta Cruz County’s Single-Use Bag Reduction Ordinance takes effect for all retail outlets (excluding restaurants for now) in unincorporated Santa Cruz County on Tuesday, March 20, 2012. According to the County of Santa Cruz and Save Our Shores the plastic bag ban is a necessary step in the ongoing effort to protect marine life, cleanup communities, and save taxpayer dollars by decreasing the County’s litter removal costs. SOS and the County of Santa Cruz are conducting a number of outreach events to help local residents get ready for the bag ban, encourage reusable bag use and distribute hundreds of free reusable bags to shoppers. On Tuesday, March 20, the plastic bag ban takes effect and SOS will hand out hundreds of free, reusable canvas bags to shoppers from 12-2pm at Safeway in Redwood Shopping Center on 41st Avenue, and from 4-6 pm at Safeway Rancho Del Mar in Aptos, and Felton Fair Shopping Center.

Trips for Kids Santa Cruz makes a difficult treck through the woods.

TRIPS

FOR

KIDS SANTA CRUZ

Taking kids for a ride that makes a difference

PAGE

MBA’s Sea Otter Toola Dies “Most Important Animal”

On Wednesday, March 21, Erik’s Deli and Baskin Robbins in Rancho Del Mar Shopping Center will donate 10 percent of all sales between 3-9 pm to Trips for Kids Santa Cruz!

that you don’t have the transportation available to take you out to Nicene Marks Park or Wilder Ranch and that you don’t have a mentor to ride along with to show you the techniques of mountain biking or to

Granger & Nakamatsu Once More

teach you how to do it safely. Now this young person can find the opportunity for such a life-changing experience with Trips for Kids® Santa Cruz (T4KSC). T4KSC provides mountain bike outings and envi-

PAGE

magine living in Santa Cruz County, one of the most beautiful areas in the world for mountain biking. Here you can ride among the redwoods finding spectacular views of Monterey Bay from mountain trails. Now imagine that you are a young person without a bike or even the hope of having one;

PAGE

By Noel Smith

ronmental education for kids who would not otherwise be able to take part in such adventures. Trips for Kids Santa Cruz is a chapter of the international nonprofit Trips for Kids committed to giving at-risk and disadvantaged youth the experience of mountain biking in Santa Cruz County.

Tips for Choosing Tax Software

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CommunityBriefs

Caltrans Hwy. 1 Rumble Strip plan altrans is in the initial stages of scoping a centerline and shoulder rumble strip project on Highway 1 from Mission St/Shaffer Road to Swanton Road past Davenport to reduce head-on and run-offthe-road crashes. The RTC has received a large number of comments from members of the public concerned about adverse impacts to bicycle travel. The RTC shares the concern and directed staff to coordinate with Caltrans to ensure that the project balances safety considerations for all road users. The rumble strip topic will be discussed at the RTC’s next Bicycle Advisory Committee meeting, scheduled for Monday, April 9 at 6:30 pm at the RTC office. An agenda and packet will be posted the week prior to the meeting. ••• Check Your Smoke and CO Alarms aylight savings time begins on March 11. This is a good time to remember to change your smoke and carbon monoxide alarm batteries. Many people remember to change their alarms’ batteries on one specific date during the year (Birthday, New Year’s Day, Christmas, Halloween).

2 / March 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Daylight Savings Time is also a good reminder. For example: “change your clock, change your batteries.” Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are an essential part of your families’ home safety plan, but only if they are properly maintained. If you do not have a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm in your home, Central Fire District personnel can install batteryoperated alarms or change the batteries in existing alarms. This is a free service offered for residents living within the Central Fire Protection District. For more information, contact the Fire Prevention Division at 930 17th Avenue, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. If you do not live within Central Fire District, contact your local fire department. For more information, contact Central Fire Protection District at 479-6843 or check our website at www.centralfpd.com. By Mike DeMars; Public Information Officer, Central Fire Protection District

Cyclists are interested in how the proposed Rumble Strip on Highway 1 through Santa Cruz will affect them. ••• Veterans Sought for CCC Forestry Crews nited States military veterans interested in forestry work can join new California Conservation Corps veterans crews based in Northern California. Members of the residential crews will live and work from CCC centers in Auburn and South Lake Tahoe and receive paid training from the U.S. Forest Service in wildland firefighting and chain saw use. The crews will work on fuel reduction and other forestry-related projects; some work may require 10-day camping/work stints away from the veterans’ base center. To qualify, veterans must be between the ages of 18 and 25, have an honorable discharge or general discharge under honorable conditions and not be on probation or parole. Those interested in applying for the program need to contact the CCC by Monday, April 2. Those who complete the CCC’s veterans program may be eligible for the USFS Wildland Firefighter Apprenticeship Program that can ultimately lead to fulltime positions with the Forest Service. Veterans selected for the crew will receive a living stipend, room and board and basic health insurance. Uniforms, safety gear and tools are provided. For information on joining the San Bernardino crew, contact the CCC’s Tina Ratcliff at (916) 341-3123 or tina.ratcliff@ccc.ca.gov. n

CommunityNews

Table of Contents

Cover Trips for Kids Santa Cruz (T4KSC) – Taking kids for a ride that makes a difference - by Noel Smith Plastic Bag Ban Takes Effect in Santa Cruz County 2 3 5 6

VOL. 21 NO. 6

7 11 12 13 14 16

APTOS TIMES

17 19 21 23 25 27 30

Community News Caltrans Hwy. 1 Rumble Strip plan • Check Your Smoke and CO Alarms • Veterans Sought for CCC Forestry Crews Soquel High School’s College-Prep Humanities Academy Accepting Applications Toola the Sea Otter dies at Monterey Bay Aquarium – ‘Most Important Animal’ in History of Aquarium’s Sea Otter Program Granger and Nakamatsu Join Forces One Last Time • Business of Art Seminar Series: Pricing Your Art — March 31st Fundraiser for Newly Formed Cabrillo Stage Theatre Guild – Big Band Era Comes to Life Meet the Author — Kathryn Gualtieri scwd2 Monthly Project Update – March 2012 – Proposed Desalination Project Will Be Net Carbon Neutral • National Groundwater Awareness Week: March 11-17 Kalefest Hosted by Homeless Garden Project on Natural Bridges Farm • Sunday Best Takes Second Place in Northern California Quartet Contest Cell Phone Distracted Driving Deaths Down • Drivers Becoming Aware of Dangers and Penalties Since Laws Enacted Bogus Refund Scheme Abusing Popular College Tax Credit • Last-minute tax tips to help avoid paying the IRS more than necessary Disaster Fraud Alert • Public Meeting on the State of the Fair Tips for choosing tax preparation software The Traveler’s Guide: Be a Safe Tourist When You Go Abroad - by Andrew Daniels Cabrillo Gallery Hosts Jessica Dunne Exhibit – Familiar Mysteries, March 16 April 20 Five Tips for Navigating a Wine List - by David White Capitola Soroptimists Honor Three Locals at Awards Dinner Know your legal rights in personal injury cases

8 9

Sports Wrap Vanderkitten-Focus Racing Team visits Aptos HS Sixteen Teams to Compete in 2012 Amgen Tour of California – World Class Field Assembled for America’s Premier Cycling Race – Aptos HS Scoreboard

Private School Open House How to Be an Elementary or Middle School Parent – Tips for Fostering Social Development - by Craig Knippenberg

Business Profile Aptos Yoga Center Celebrates 2nd Anniversary - by Gail Penniman

New In Town Dentistry for Animals – Judy Force, DVM Fellow of the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry

Soquel High School’s College-Prep Humanities Academy Accepting Applications

n March, Soquel High School’s rigorous and popular Humanities Academy program will begin its application process for the 2012-2013 academic year. Applications will be available for New Brighton and Shoreline Middle School students on March 14 when students visit Soquel High School. Students from other feeder schools can pick-up application packets at the Soquel High School counseling office after March 1. Completed applications must be brought to one of the assessments which will take place from 4-5:30 pm on March 28, 29, and 30 in room 114 at Soquel High School. On May 1, the names of accepted and wait-listed students will be posted on the Soquel High website and next to the door of the front office at Soquel High. The Humanities Academy, which has a linked, enriched English and social studies curriculum, is a program for academically motivated students. Graduates of The

Academy have gained admittance to some of the finest universities in the country. Parent participation is vital and encouraged in this program. n ••• There is no required fee to apply or attend, although a yearly donation is encouraged for accepted students. For more information, please contact assistant principal Gail Atlansky 429-3909 x 132 or gatlansky@sccs.santacruz.k12.ca.us.

Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28 & 29

Monthly Horoscope • Page 29 - Your March Horoscope - Annabel Burton, Astrologer© 22 24 26 31

Featured Columnists The Book Bag by Robert Francis – Action and adventure with a hint of suspense… MathBox by Burt Lundy – Squares in Your Head, General Case EarthTalk® – Air Standards Defeat Smog Pet Potpourri by River May, DVM – Angry Dogs! SPCA Featured Pet • Page 31 - After All, Tomorrow is Another Day … To Adopt!

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Times Publishing Group, Inc. 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 The Times Publishing Group Inc., publishers of the Aptos Times, a bi-weekly publication, the Capitola Times and Scotts Valley Times, each printed monthly, Coastal Weddings Magazine, printed twice annually and Hospice Magazine, printed once annually, is owned by Patrice Edwards. Entire contents ©2012. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission. PHONE: (831) 688-7549 FAX: (831) 688-7551 GENERAL E-MAIL: info@cyber-times.com Patrice Edwards: patrice@cyber-times.com Publisher’s Assistant: assistant@cyber-times.com Editor: info@cyber-times.com Opinions / Letters: editorial@cyber-times.com Calendar Listings: www.cyber-times.com Graphics Dept: graphics@cyber-times.com Billing Inquiries: cathe@cyber-times.com Classified Sales: assistant@cyber-times.com Production: production@cyber-times.com

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CoverStory

“T4KSC” from pg 1

T4KSC provides the equipment, transportation, mentoring support and skills instruction to help kids discover the sport of mountain biking while learning new skills in the great outdoors. T4KSC believes the trust, self-confidence, and enjoyment of mountain biking can lead to greater changes for good in the lives of at-risk and disadvantaged youth. The Santa Cruz chapter was founded in 2011 by attorney Allison Cruz and is solely a volunteer organization. Cruz is an attorney whose young clients range from those who have seen abuse and neglect, to juvenile delinquents. “I thought I would do what I can to hopefully have a positive effect. I decided it might help if these often underprivileged kids could get their adrenaline rushes from mountain biking instead of through gang activities.” T4KSC board member, John Fuchs said that fell in love with guiding kids while of coaching his daughter’s teams in volleyball and basketball. He also coached the Aptos High School golf team for four years. Besides his family and his business, John’s other passion is mountain biking. “Trips for Kids has provided me an incredible opportunity to make a difference in young people’s lives who may be in search of healthier lifestyle choices. I look forward to helping kids… one ride at a time.” The first Saturday of each month, the Santa Cruz chapter of Trips for Kids meets at their new clubhouse they call the “Launch Pad.” This is a 1,100-square-foot trailer donated by John Martinelli on Harvest Drive located on the 20-acre former Birds Eye property now owned by S. Martinelli & Co. in Watsonville. Dave Smith of Shuttle Smith Adventures loads up the bikes (Up to 12), and the kids and off they go for a day of riding trails in the upper campus of UCSC, Wilder Ranch or Nicene marks Park. On May 5, Cinco de Mayo (which happens to fall on a Saturday this year), T4KSC will be riding along the Pajaro River levee. According to Fuchs, T4KSC now has 18 bikes and is looking forward to having “No Plastic Bags” from pg 1

Plastic bags are a harmful, petroleumbased product of convenience, are not biodegradable, rarely recycled, harmful to marine species, and are constantly found

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Sharing some tunes before setting out on the trail.

enough kids taking part so they can start a second ride and even expand to two Saturday rides per month. For Those Wanting to Volunteer, T4KSC’s mission is to change lives through riding a bike. They need volunteers to: Be a supportive role model for a young person, which can be life changing. Teach bike skills, provide support and help kids learn to meet challenges. Tune bikes, build shelves, find donations, and help make it all happen. If you’d like to share your bike skills and expertise with Trips for Kids Santa Cruz, contact Megan Melack through email at melackfood@gmail.com. Kids who are interested in riding with Trips for Kids Santa Cruz should first go to www.tripsforkidssantacruz.org/what-tobring/ and download the consent and agreement forms to fill them out! Next, you should bring: • Your Trips for Kids Santa Cruz Rider Consent Form signed by a parent or guardian. You cannot go on the ride if this form is not signed and with you. • A backpack with additional clothing for changing temperatures in Santa Cruz. Don’t forget a jacket even if it is warm out. • Clothes for hot and cold weather (don’t forget a jacket, even if it’s nice

out) and a backpack. • Bike shorts if you have them, soccer or basketball type shorts work well, too! • A sturdy pair of shoes for walking and biking. Athletic shoes work best. • Remember to eat a good breakfast on the day of the trip and come prepared to have fun! Do Not Bring: • Electronic devices (iPods, games, etc.) Cell phones are okay, but must remain silent. • Any clothing or other item that may be considered gang-related (i.e. no red or blue clothing, no letter belts, no red or blue at all). • Weapons of any kind • Drugs, alcohol or cigarettes For more information, contact the following people: Riders Allison Cruz — tripsforkids.cruz@gmail.com Volunteers Megan Melack — melackfood@gmail.com Donors Mark Davidson — mark@mbosc.org Roxanne Harrison — rharrison6@sbcglobal.net T4KSC would like to thank Martinelli’s (John Martinelli) for donating the Launch Pad at their new facility in Watsonville; Erik’s Deli (Lindsey and James Bryant) and Baskin Robbins (Keang and Dee Dee Lee) for holding a fundraiser on March 21. Good people helping a great cause! n ••• For more information, visit www.tripsforkidssantacruz.org.

polluting the waterways and communities surrounding the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Save Our Shores’ data shows over 34,000 plastic bags have been removed during SOS cleanups in the past five years.

The Santa Cruz County plastic bag ban makes it illegal for retail outlets to give away disposable plastic bags and imposes a 10-cent fee on paper bags. The goal of the ban is to change behaviors toward reusable bag use. n

CommunityNews

Toola the Sea Otter dies at Monterey Bay Aquarium

‘Most Important Animal’ in History of Aquarium’s Sea Otter Program

he Monterey Bay Aquarium announced the death of Toola, a female sea otter who was arguably the most important animal in the 28-year history of the aquarium’s pioneering Sea Otter Research and Conservation program. Toola died early the morning of March 3 in the aquarium’s veterinary care center, of natural causes and infirmities of age. She was the first rescued sea otter ever to raise pups that were successfully returned to the wild; and was the inspiration for state legislation that improved sea otter protection. Toola was about 15 or 16 years old and was rescued as a mature adult (5+ years of age) when she was found stranded on Pismo Beach on July 21, 2001. She suffered from neurological disorders, likely caused by infection of her brain by the protozoan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii. The otter’s seizure disorder required twice-daily anticonvulsant medication and prevented release back into the wild. Toola quickly became a pioneer for the aquarium because she was the first otter ever to serve as a surrogate mother for stranded pups. She raised 13 pups over the years, including one that was weaned from her as her health declined just one day before she died. Of the 11 pups released to the wild, five are known to have survived – including the first animal she reared in 2001. Her pups have gone on to give birth to seven pups of their own, five of which have been weaned successfully. Two more of her pups are on track for release later this year. Toola’s most famous pup is the subject of a new feature film, Otter 501, which debuted in February at the Santa Barbara Film Festival. On exhibit, Toola’s story of exposure to the toxoplasmosis parasite that can be carried by cats inspired then-California State Assemblymember (now Insurance Commissioner) Dave Jones to introduce legislation to better protect California’s threatened sea otter population. His bill, co-authored with current California Resources Secretary John Laird, became law in 2006. Among other provisions, it created the California Sea Otter Fund that has generated more than $1 million in voluntary taxpayer contributions to support research into disease and other threats facing sea otters in the wild. “Toola was without question the most important animal in the history of our program,” said Andrew Johnson, manager of the aquarium’s Sea Otter

Research and Conservation program. “She showed us that captive otters could successfully raise orphaned pups for return to the wild. She inspired a critical piece of legislation that is helping protect sea otters. And she inspired millions of visitors to care more about sea otters. We will miss her.” “I will argue that there is no other single sea otter that had a greater impact upon the sea otter species, the sea otter programs worldwide, and upon the interface between the sea otters’ scientific community and the public,” said aquarium veterinarian Dr. Mike Murray. Although she was at the aquarium for more than a decade, she remained a wild animal at heart, said Associate Curator of Mammals Christine DeAngelo – and a strong-willed one, too. “It was clear to everyone on the sea otter exhibit team that Toola, not me, was really in charge,” DeAngelo said. “When she wanted to work on something in a training session, she’d give me a ‘look’ or vocalize and I’d immediately cave in and

do whatever she wanted. Now that she’s passed, we’re in need of another head trainer to run the place!” The Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Sea Otter Research and Conservation program has been studying the threatened southern sea otter since 1984. The aquarium has rescued nearly 600 ill and injured otters, raises and releases stranded pups, and has

placed non-releasable animals on exhibit in Monterey and at other accredited aquariums across North America. The aquarium’s research team plays a key role in field studies of sea otters in California, Alaska and Russia and works on behalf of policies at the state and federal level that will advance the recovery of sea otter populations. n

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CommunityNews

Granger and Nakamatsu Join Forces One Last Time

Concert '3B' Features Beethoven, Brahms and Berwald

anta Cruz County Symphony concert features Brahms’ Fourth Symphony and Van Cliburn Gold Medalist, Jon Nakamatsu performing Beethoven’s Fourth Piano Concerto. The Santa Cruz County Symphony aims to dazzle audiences on Saturday, March 24, at 8 pm, in the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium and at a repeat matinee performance on Sunday, March 25, at 2 pm in the Mello Center for the Performing Arts in Watsonville. The fourth concert of Maestro John Larry Granger’s final John Larry Granger season- 3 B’s- features star pianist and local favorite, Jon Nakamatsu, and works by composers whose last names all begin with a ‘B’Ludwig van Beethoven, Johannes Brahms and Swedish composer, Franz Berwald. The non-musical highpoint of the weekend’s concerts will be the announcement of the 5 candidates vying to be the new Maestro by conducting a concert in the Symphony’s 2012/13 Season.

The fourth concert of Maestro John Larry Granger ’s final season- 3 B’s- features star pianist and local favorite, Jon Nakamatsu, and works by composers whose last names all begin with a ‘B’- Ludwig van Beethoven, Johannes Brahms and Swedish composer, Franz Berwald.

The concert opens with the Overture to Estrella de Soria, a Swedish opera by the romantic composer, Franz Berwald that premiered in 1862 in Stockholm. Although the opera and Berwald’s other works were well received, he never obtained notoriety in his lifetime and instead had to rely on his work as an orthopedic surgeon and factory manager. His bittersweet Overture to Estrella de Soria showcases both his fiery passion and melodic lyricism. Audiences are sure to be delighted by Jon Nakamatsu, who has consistently performed to packed houses in Santa Cruz County – and worldwide. Jon originally

Ludwig van Beethoven • Johannes Brahms • Franz Berwald

came to notoriety by winning the gold medal at the 10th Annual Van Cliburn Competition, the world’s premiere piano competition. Having worked with Maestro Granger on numerous occasions, this will be the last chance to see this dynamic duo work together. Nakamatsu will be performing Beethoven’s intimate Piano Concerto No. 4, an originally overlooked work that is now essential concerto repertoire. The work is serenely poetic until its vigorous, almost rambunctious conclusion. An 1809 review called the concerto “most admirable, singular, artistic and complex Beethoven concerto ever.” The concert concludes with Johannes Brahms’ majestic Fourth Symphony. Completed in 1885, this masterpiece is the last of his Symphonies and considered by many to be the greatest achievement of career. With this work, Brahms- typically a conservative composer- created an elegant fusion of innovation with tradition. The work becomes increasingly complex until end when it culminates in a final rush of energy. Free pre-concert talks take place before both performances: at 7 pm in the Civic Auditorium, prior to the Saturday evening concert; and at 1 pm in the Watsonville Mello Center, prior to the

Sunday matinee concert. Pre-concert talks are free and open to all concertgoers. The 2011/12 season is generously sponsored by the Dorothy Wise; the Symphony League of Santa Cruz County; and Plantronics. The ‘3 B’s’ concerts are made possible with support from Todd & Corinne Wipke and Pete Cartwright in memory of his wife, June Cartwright. n ••• Tickets: Single tickets ($20-$65) are now on sale: 831.420.5260 or www.santacruztickets.com and 2012/13 Symphony Season Tickets will be available at the concerts and afterwards by calling 462-0553, ext. 10. Student Rush: On the day of the concert, bring a Student ID to the box office between 6:30-7:30pm at the Civic Box Office or to the Mello Box Office between 12:30-1:00, and pay just $10! For more information, visit www.SantaCruzSymphony.org

Hall, Room 1001 Cost: $25. Seating is limited. Advanced registration is Required. (The first seminar of the series sold out, so register early.) Register for the series and learn more through the Cabrillo College Extension website. This is a collaboration between the Cultural Council of Santa Cruz County, Cabrillo College’s Division of Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA), Cabrillo

Extension, the Small Business Development Center, and the Business & Entrepreneurship Center. n ••• For more information, please contact Nabil Ghachem, Grants & Technical Assistance Manager at: grants@ccscc.org

Jon Nakamatsu

Photo Credit: Peter Schaaf

Business of Art Seminar Series: Pricing Your Art — March 31st

egistration is now open for Business of Art Seminar Series — From Passion to Profitability, presentations created to help artists start, manage and grow their businesses. These seminars convey valuable insight and tools to those wishing to grow a business selling their art. The second seminar in the series, Pricing Your Art, will feature curators and artists with sales experience to cover such topics as: trends in pricing,

what is selling, pricing for different venues, and other vital information for emerging and mid-career artists. Attendees will have an opportunity to have their questions answered by working professionals, including local artists Ursula O’Farrell, Bonnie Walker, and Suzanne Yost McCourt. This seminar will be led by James Aschbacher, a local muralist and art entrepreneur. Saturday, March 31, 2012 from 10am 12pm, Cabrillo College, VAPA Lecture

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CommunityNews

Fundraiser for Newly Formed Cabrillo Stage Theatre Guild

Big Band Era Comes to Life

abrillo Stage, the professional musical theatre company at Cabrillo College that just completed their 30th Anniversary season in December, is starting out 2012 with the newly formed Cabrillo Stage Theatre Guild. The Guild, comprised of Cabrillo Stage donors, Cabrillo Stage dedicated to Dinner-Dance maintaining Fundraiser the artistic integrity of Swing Into Spring the company Friday, March 30 during these 6:00 -10:00 PM hard econom- Cocoanut Grove Ballroom ic times, is 400 Beach Street producing their first dinner-dance fundraiser titled Swing Into Spring, Friday, March 30, at the Cocoanut Grove Ballroom from 6:00 to 10:00 PM Swing Into Spring will take attendees on a trip back to the golden age of the Big Band era, with Jon Nordgren conducting a live 17-piece Big Band playing timeless arrangements for everyone to dance to in the historic Cocoanut Grove Ballroom. Dinner and dancing is highlighted for the evening, as well as live and silent auctions, special performances by San Jose State’s Company One dancers and the singing stars of Cabrillo Stage’s 2010 hit Swing, including Eleanor Hunter, Jarrod Washington, Jennifer Taylor-Daniels and Andrew Ceglio. Other highlights of the evening will include a costume contest for best 1940s attire and first option at buying tickets at the “mobile Box Office” to Cabrillo Stage’s upcoming 2012 repertory season. The unique dinner-dance fundraiser comes at time when funding for Stage has been cut due to the State budget crisis. “Cabrillo Stage” > 16

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SportsWrap

Vanderkitten-Focus Racing Team visits Aptos HS

The popular young Santa Cruzan his famous International bicycle racing team showed up at Aptos has shown her hand at CX racing with High School on March 5 with Team Rambuski Law this winter, includwomen from the New Zealand, ing multiple wins and podiums in Australia, the East Coast of the US and NorCal racing, and top finishes at USGP the Bay Area. They have 25 members of and UCI events across the USA. Earlier in the team representing them world- 2011, Courtney joined the Vanderkittenwide. The Vanderkitten-Focus claim to Focus road program as a guest rider at fame is not only their stamina and rac- Tour of America’s Dairyland in Wisconsin and ing skills, but Gateway Cup in their popular Missouri. line of sports “ E v e n wear. Cycling is though selection one of several for positions on successful the 2012 roster sports programs was a tough at Aptos High p r o c e s s , School available Courtney earned to the students. her spot by showThis women’s ing she is a valupro racing team able team memdemonstrated ber on and off the to students that bike. Definitely a bike racing is strong competinot just for tor on, it was the boys. fact that several One of the members of our newest members Vanderkitten-Focus Team at the Cherrie Pie Criterium. of this illustrious From left: Maura Kinsella, Vanessa Drigo, Ruth Winder team kept asking, “Will Courtney women’s racing and Courtney Dimpel. be on it?” that team is Courtney Dimpel, a local Aptos woman who grad- sealed her spot. She really is adored as a uated from Aptos High and Santa Clara hard worker and motivating spirit to be University. This speedy Santa Cruz with,” said Team Captain Jennifer Reither. Cyclocross racer has moved up from Dimpel will be one of the locals representguest riding with Vanderkitten-Focus ing Vanderkitten-Focus with 12 riders from (VK) in 2011 to making the 2012 team ros- four countries in the Scotts Valley Grand Prix starting May 20, 2012. ter.

Vanderkitten-Focus Team visits Aptos High School. Team members include Emily Collins (New Zealand), Jasmin Hurikino (Australia), Ruth Winder (England), Jennifer Reither (United States), Vanessa Drigo (Switzerland), Kathryn Curri Mattis (United States), Starla Teddergreen (United States), Bridie O'Donnell (United States), Kate Chilcott (New Zealand), Maura Kinsella (United States), Courtney Dimpel (United States) and Kathleen Billington (United States). 8 / March 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Courtney Dimpel leads with one lap to go.

Courtney said, “This VK team is great. Winder picking up the Cherry Pie The girls are a real inspiration and push me Criterium trophy in Napa, to reach higher, dig deeper, and throw it all California. Cherry Pie is an imporout on the table. I’m proud to be an official tant California season opening event, member, and have some big goals this year. with the recent win list including I feel fortunate that I names such as have a great mix of Tina Pic, Brooke 2012 Vanderkitten-Focus support not only Miller, Megan National Racing Calendar from the team, but Guarnier and my family and close reigning Swiss March friends. Racing at this N a t i o n a l Redlands Bicycle Classic level requires a lot of Champion Pascale Redlands CA support, and I’m Schneider. ••• thankful for those The VK squad April who have and continled was by captain Sea Otter Classic Monterey CA ue to believe in me as Jenn X and included a person and profesMaura Kinsella, Speed Week (GA, SC, NC) sional cyclist.” Courtney Dimpel, ••• J e n n i f e r Vanessa Drigo and May Reither, Captain, Ruth Winder. With a Exergy Tour Vanderkitten-Focus lap to go, Courtney Idaho said, “The students at Van Dimpel, led the ••• Aptos High were field over the startJune amazing. Cycling is finish line. Courtney Liberty Classic really fun and Team rounded the U-turn Philadelphia Vanderkitten-Focus in first and charged was stoked to present down the back Nature Valley Grand Prix the racing opportunistraight. With just Minnesota ty for kids to start under 1 km to go, Tour of Americas now. The best part Maura Kinsella took Dairyland about being a Pro over with Ruth on Bike Racer is telling her wheel. Maura Nationals Road and Time Trial everyone how fun it led through the final is to ride bikes. straight into the last Bicycling is a great sport for the family chicane, and then Ruth took over 150 across all generations. How many memo- meters from the finish. With Schneider ries do you have of riding your bike?” on her wheel, Ruth had to kick with Winning Start to the VK Season everything she had and in the dash to the anderkitten-Focus had winning line managed to come in first throwing start to its season, with Ruth her hands in the air. What a win! n

SportsWrap

Sixteen Teams to Compete in 2012 Amgen Tour of California

World Class Field Assembled for America’s Premier Cycling Race

LOS ANGELES — Race organizers have named the 16 teams to compete in the 2012 Amgen Tour of California, May 13 to 20. Including some of the world’s best international and domestic squads the teams are comprised of United Cycling International (UCI) Pro, Pro Continental and Continental squads. Since the inaugural race in 2006, the Amgen Tour of California in 2012 will play a significant role as the top competitors test themselves in preparation for the Tour de France and the 2012 Summer Olympic Games taking place in London this summer. The 2012 Amgen Tour of California will start in Santa Rosa on May 13 and travel more than 750 miles throughout some of California’s most majestic and iconic highways, roadways and coastlines before the final stage on May 20 in downtown Los Angeles. The 16 elite teams include: • RadioShack-Nissan-Trek, whose roster includes Amgen Tour of California defending champion Chris Horner, Jens Voigt and current U.S. National Road Race Champion, Matthew Busche. • No. 1-ranked team in the world, Omega Pharma – QuickStep, featuring three-time Amgen Tour of

California winner Levi Leipheimer and Tom Boonen • Garmin-Barracuda, featuring Amgen Tour of California veterans Dave Zabriskie and Tom Danielson • 2011 Tour de France champion BMC Racing including veteran cyclist and fan favorite George Hincapie and one of the fastest rising stars in cycling today, Tejay van Garderen. • The Rabobank Cycling Team, featuring Laurens Ten Dam and Luis Leon Sanchez. • Liquigas-Cannondale is set to compete featuring American cyclists, Ted King and Timothy Duggan, as well as Peter Sagan, who has taken multiple stages in previous editions of the Amgen Tour of California. • Competing in the Amgen for the first time will be the Australian GreenEDGE Cycling Team, who plan to bring Luke Durbridge and Robbie McEwen • AG2R La Mondiale is also on the roster, featuring Nicolas Roche and Rinaldo Nocentini. The 2012 Amgen Tour of California complete roster includes the following 16 teams:

Garmin - Barracuda

“Amgen” > 11

Aptos High School Scoreboard Boys Volleyball

Aptos def. San Lorenzo Valley (25-22, 25-11, 25-17) Aptos Season Record: (1-2, SCCAL 1-2) ptos Scoring: Luke Paulus 10 kills, 2 blocks; Kael Losik 8 kills; Grant Townsend 28 assists Pacific Collegiate School def. Aptos (25-19, 25-21, 25-17) Aptos Scoring: Cole Welle 6 kills, 2 aces; Kael Losik 4 kills.

Lacrosse

Aptos 9 – San Lorenzo Valley Aptos Season Record: (6-1, SCCAL 1-0)

ptos Scoring: Colton Lawler 2 goals, 1 assist; Nick Green 1 goal, 1 assist; Cody Gradone 1 goal; Sage Parker 1 goal; Jeremy Medina 1 goal, 5 assists; Jake McCold 1 goal; Weston White 6 saves. Aptos 15 – Christopher 1 Aptos Scoring: Sage Parker 1 goal, 5 assists; Blake Kenerson 1 goal; Nick Wameling 3 goals; Cody Gradone 3 goal, 1 assist; Tyler Price 3 goals; Colton Lawler 1 goal, 1 assist; Nick Green 3 goals; Weston White 6 saves. “Aptos Scoreboard” > 16

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2012 / 9

10 / March 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

CommunityNews

Meet the Author — Kathryn Gualtieri

he author to speak in our last of the 2012 Meet the Author Series at the Porter Memorial Library will be Kathryn Gualtieri. She will be at the library on April 11 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Kathryn will be discussing her debut mystery,

“Murder in the Pines,” set in the “bohemian” enclave of Carmel-by-the-Sea in 1921. Given Ms. Gualtieri’s historical background, it’s no wonder that “the hardest part” of writing this mystery was “not putting in too much history.” She received a Master of Arts in the Department of History at San Jose State University. Her career has been focused on historical resources and historical preservation at both the state and local levels. She was a member of the Carmel Historic Preservation Committee and is even today, an historical consultant for the City of Carmel Planning Department. Her first book was historical non-fiction, entitled: “Half Moon Bay: Birth of a Coastside Town.” “Murder in the Pines” still packs a lot of historical details and much of the plot revolves around real events. The mystery captures the vulnerability of Nora Finnegan, a single woman in an unconventional career. Nora has just been hired as a reporter for the “Carmel Pine Cone” when she’s thrust into a heated conflict between Carmel’s business owners and its 600 residents. A hotel is proposed for the unspoiled beach, pitting growth activists against the Bohemian artists and writers

“Amgen” from pg 9

familiar faces back in California this May, as well as a few new teams who will be racing with us for the first time. We look forward to presenting another impressive race for fans around the world.” In addition to the pro cycling teams confirmed for the 2012 Amgen Tour of California, Amgen’s Breakaway from Cancer® team will also be returning, to celebrate cancer survivors and raise awareness about the free support services available to people affected by cancer from the four non-profit Breakaway from Cancer partner organizations. n ••• For more information about the teams competing in the 2012 Amgen Tour of California, please visit the official race website, www.AmgenTourofCalifornia.com. For more information about Breakaway from Cancer, visit breakawayfromcancer.com. The largest cycling event in America, the 2012 Amgen Tour of California is a Tour de France-style cycling road race, presented by AEG that challenges the world’s top professional cycling teams to compete along a demanding course from May 13-20, 2012. In a 2011 poll conducted by CyclingNews.com, the Amgen Tour of California was voted the fourth best race in the world, and the No. 1 race in America.

UCI ProTeams BMC Racing Team (USA) Rabobank Cycling Team (NED) Garmin - Barracuda (USA) RadioShack-Nissan-Trek (LUX) Liquigas-Cannondale (ITA) Omega Pharma - QuickStep (BEL) AG2R La Mondiale (FRA) GreenEDGE Cycling Team (AUS) UCI Professional Continental Teams Team Spidertech Powered By C10 (CAN) UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling Team (USA) Project 1t4i (NED) Colombia-Coldeportes (COL) UCI Continental Teams Team Optum Presented By Kelly Benefit Strategies (USA) Bissell Pro Cycling (USA) Team Exergy (USA) Bontrager Livestrong Team (USA) “These 16 teams represent the most prestigious field of talent ever to compete in our race and we are honored to have them join us for the seventh edition of the Amgen Tour of California,” said Kristin Bachochin, executive director of the race and senior vice president of AEG Sports. “Cycling fans will see some favorite and

who live in Carmel. Two violent murders ensure. Her inquiry into the deaths provides her with a challenging news story, but also puts her life at risk. Our author, Ms. Gualtieri, retired and moved to Capitola 20 years ago and was a member of the Capitola Planning Committee from 1992-1995. As of now, she’s planning on writing more mysteries, which she enjoys and Nora Finnegan will be her main character. Come to this free program at the library at 3050 Porter Street in the heart of Soquel to meet the author, to purchase Ms. Gualtieri’s books and have them autographed at the end of the program.

Refreshments will be served with coffee generously provided by The Ugly Mug. There is limited parking behind the library by entering The Bagelry parking lot and driving to the left. More information on this program may be obtained at the library website at: www.porterml.org, or by calling the library at 475-3326 during nor- Katheryn Gualtieri mal library hours: Monday-Friday from 12-4p.m. and Saturday from 10a.m. to 2 p.m.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2012 / 11

CommunityNews

scwd2 Monthly Project Update – March 2012

Proposed Desalination Project Will Be Net Carbon Neutral

ast month, the Santa Cruz City Council and Soquel Creek Water District Board of Directors both unanimously approved staff’s recommendation that the project be designed and operated to be net carbon neutral. This

means that adding desalination to the local water supply portfolio would not result in any more indirect greenhouse gas generation than the 2010 levels associated with existing surface and groundwater production and treatment. Projects that could be

implemented to reduce carbon emissions may include on-site design features such as solar panels, energy efficiency pumps and recovery devices, and green building features to reduce the energy requirements. Over the last 10 months, the City of Santa Cruz and Soquel Creek Water District have embarked on an Energy Minimization and Greenhouse Gas Reduction Study (Energy Study) to thoroughly evaluate energy and indirect greenhouse gases associated with proposed desalination project. A technical working group, including local professionals, experts and practitioners in the water and energy fields, helped develop a list of potential projects and programs to reduce the proposed project’s carbon footprint. For more information, visit www.scwd2desal.org/Page-Energy.php ••• City of Santa Cruz’s Ordinance for Voter Approval of Desalination Plant for 2014 t the February 28th City Council Meeting, an ordinance was introduced that would require the City to seek voter approval for the proposed desalination plant. The “Desalination Plant-Voter Approval” ordinance will require the City Council to submit the question of whether the City will construct a desalination plant to City voters prior to the time the City Council takes any legislative action. The vote would take place at either a regularly scheduled statewide or general municipal election and not before June 2014. The ordinance requires environmental review of the desalination project to be

completed prior to the vote and does not prohibit the City from appropriating the funds necessary to undertake environmental studies or to otherwise continue to analyze the proposed desalination plant’s construction, operation, costs and financing. There is currently an effort underway by some community members to gather signatures for a November 2012 ballot measure that would ask voters to amend the Santa Cruz City Charter to ensure that the City Council does not approve, permit or fund a desalination project without voter approval. If passed, there would then be a second vote no sooner than June 2014 very similar in nature to the ballot measure described in the Council’s current proposed ordinance discussed above. The City’s proposed ordinance would eliminate the need and associated costs of conducting two separate elections and does provide for a vote by City residents in a regular election regarding whether a desalination plant is to be constructed. City officials are also discussing options on how non-City water customers could weigh-in and vote on the proposed project. At its regular meeting of March 13, City Council will conduct a second reading of this proposed ordinance for possible adoption. n

development of supplemental water supplies, including the possibility of a desalination program in partnership with the City of Santa Cruz Water Department. n ••• The Soquel Creek Water District is a nonprofit, local government agency providing water to Capitola, Aptos, La Selva Beach, Opal Cliffs, Rio Del Mar, Seascape and Soquel. Its mission is to deliver a safe and reliable supply of high-quality water within

its service area to meet present and future needs in an environmentally sensitive and economically responsible way. Website: www.soquelcreekwater.org

National Groundwater Awareness Week: March 11-17

he Soquel Creek Water District, which relies solely on groundwater to provide water to 15,000 residences and businesses in mid-Santa Cruz County, is promoting in National Groundwater Awareness Week by educating its customers about their water source and the need to conserve and protect it. It is also “Fix a Leak Week,“ sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Over the last several decades, more water has been drawn from the groundwater aquifers underlying the Soquel-Aptos area than is naturally replenished. Conservation is critical to prevent saltwater intrusion from contaminating the water supply. Soquel Creek Water District customers have reduced their water use con-

siderably, resulting in some of the lowest per capita water use in California; however, further conservation is needed. Customers are encouraged to call the Soquel Creek Water District and schedule a free water-wise house call. A water conservation specialist will help identify leaks and other water-saving opportunities at their homes and businesses. Customers can also stop by the District office and pick up free water-saving devices such as hose nozzles, showerheads, aerators and toilet leak detection tablets. More conservation incentives available to customers, including rebates, can be found on the District’s Web site. In addition to conservation, the Soquel Creek Water District is evaluating the

12 / March 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

CommunityNews

Kalefest Hosted by Homeless Garden Project on Natural Bridges Farm

SANTA CRUZ — Kale is widely recognized as an incredibly nutritious vegetable since ancient Greek and Roman times. This leafy green vegetable is also very versatile. How do you like to enjoy kale? The Homeless Garden Project loves it in many forms – from sprouts on their garden to chips, salads and casseroles, this non-profit organization just can’t get enough kale. On Saturday, March 31 from noon – 4 pm they will be celebrating this brassica family plant with Kalefest. Kalefest goers will enjoy cooking demonstrations by local celebrity chefs, farm tours, raffles, garden workshops, kid activities, raffles, blue ribbon judging for the best kale bunch, live music, food, refreshments and beer. A recipe contest will also be held, with the best kale chip and kale dish recipes winning a spot in the

upcoming Homeless Garden Project cookbook. On their Natural Bridges Farm, over

four different types of kale are grown year round. Come celebrate Kalefest on Saturday, March 31. The farm is located on

Shaffer Road at Delaware Avenue. Admission is $5 and includes everything but alcohol and food purchases. More information about the contests and event schedule can be found online at www.homelessgardenproject.org. n ••• The Homeless Garden Project, founded in 1990, provides job training and transitional employment to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The programs offer trainees an opportunity to rebuild and develop basic life skills and a sense of worth as human beings. The Homeless Garden Project brings together people from throughout the community in the beauty and security of their certified organic garden, teaches principles of economic and ecological sustainability through classes and hands-on experience, and provides homeless men and women job training and transitional employment.

unday Best, a quartet out of the Gold Standard Chorus, made the second highest overall score for the day as mixed and all-male barbershop quartets competed in their separate divisions. This score also earned them the second place award in the Mixed Quartet contest, as well as a good deal of pride in scoring higher than ANY of the all-male quartets... the first time ever in novice contest! Artistic Nonsense, an outstanding mixed quartet from Palo Alto, took first place. The contests were held in Ripon on Feb 25, 2012. Sunday Best competed against six other novice mixed quartets and six all-male novice quartets from

Northern California. Quartet members were tenor Lara Pacheco, assistant chorus director; lead Nick Roberto, chapter president; bass Jordan Johnson, chorus director; and baritone Trudy Mock. The Gold Standard Barbershop Chorus (GSBC) is the Santa Cruz chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS). Both GSBC and BHS are non-profit organizations dedicated to “keeping the whole world singing.” GSBC delivers Valengrams in February, puts on an annual cabaret show in June, hosts SING FOR YOUR LIFE, a youth outreach show in November, and sings carols in hospitals and retirement homes in December. Each semester,

GSBC sends quartets into the county’s high schools to demonstrate barbershop music, one of America’s indigenous music forms. n

••• If you would like to audition for the Gold Standard Chorus, please call 408 332 3653 or visit www.scbarbershop.org.

Sunday Best Takes Second Place in Northern California Quartet Contest

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SELECT SHOPPING / APTOS VILLAGE Sunday Best (from left): Lara Pacheco, Nick Roberto, Jordan Johnson, Trudy Mock www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2012 / 13

CommunityNews

Cell Phone Distracted Driving Deaths Down

Drivers Becoming Aware of Dangers and Penalties Since Laws Enacted

he California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) announced deaths due to hand-held cell phone use by drivers have dropped since California enacted a ban on hand-held cell phone use while driving in July, 2008. The analysis, conducted by the Safe Transportation Research and Education Center (SafeTREC) at the University of California, Berkeley, showed that, when looking at state crash records two years before and two years after the hand-held ban went into effect, overall traffic deaths declined 22 percent while hand-held cell phone driver deaths went down 47 percent. Similar results were shown for handsfree cell phone use as well as injuries in both categories. “These results suggest that the law banning hand-held cell phone use while driving had a positive impact on reducing traffic fatalities and injuries,” said Dr. David Ragland, Director of SafeTREC. Contributing to the decline in cell phone deaths and injuries is an overall drop in cell phone usage while driving. A

Statewide Intercept Opinion Survey commissioned with federal funds by OTS last summer showed 40 percent of California drivers reported they talk less (handheld and hands free) since enactment of the hand-held cell phone ban.

14 / March 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

In February 2010, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reported similar results from their telephone survey which found that 44 percent of drivers in states with bans reported they don’t use phones (hand-held or hands-free) when driving, compared with 30 percent in states without such laws. Further, IIHS observational research found that bans on handheld phoning while driving can have big and long-term effects in curbing hand-held cell phone use. “While we are thrilled to see that the hand-held ban in California has worked to reduce distracted driving crashes and overall cell phone use, there are still far too many drivers talking and texting while driving,” said Christopher J. Murphy, Director for the California Office of Traffic Safety. “A good step for parents is to never call or text your kids if you think they might be driving.” Cell phone usage while driving is top of the mind with California drivers, which they see as carrying a significant traffic safety threat. The same OTS statewide

opinion survey reported that 62 percent of respondents stated that texting and talking are the biggest safety concerns on California roadways and 84 percent claimed cell phone conversations or texting while driving constitute the most serious distractions while driving. Another clue to the reduction in crashes might be found in new information from the Department of Motor Vehicles that shows, statewide in 2011, there were 460,487 hand-held cell phone convictions – up 22 percent from 361,260 convictions in 2010 and 52 percent from 301,833 in 2009. The cost of a ticket for a first offense is at least $159, and $279 for subsequent offenses. “Highly visible and publicized enforcement, along with the cooperation of the motoring public to reduce distractions behind the wheel, has played a significant role in the reduction in collisions,” said California Highway Patrol (CHP) Commissioner Joe Farrow. “In addition, there are many educational programs developed by the CHP, our allied agencies, as well as non-profit organizations such as Impact Teen Drivers that have made sustained efforts in reducing distracted driving.’’ In April 2011, the Office of Traffic Safety using federal funds conducted the nation’s first statewide cell phone observational survey that showed nine percent of drivers were talking or texting while driving, representing hundreds of thousands of drivers at any given time. Research has shown that drivers who use hand-held devices are four times as likely to get into crashes serious enough to injure themselves. The distracted driving section of the California Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP) has developed the state’s “It’s Not Worth It!” public awareness campaign that employs TV, radio commercials, billboards, internet, social media and other outreach. In addition, millions of Californians see the “Handheld Cell Ticket $159 – It’s Not Worth It” message on more than 625 permanent changeable message signs for several days throughout the year. The SHSP’s distracted driving section is currently formulating plans to increase the data and research available to more accurately understand and combat the problem.

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CommunityNews

Bogus Refund Scheme Abusing Popular College Tax Credit

Targets Include Seniors, Working Families and Church Members throughout California

OAKLAND The Internal Revenue Service today warned senior citizens and other taxpayers to beware of an emerging federal tax refund scam tempting victims to file tax returns claiming fraudulent refunds. Bogus refund claims have been identified from California and at least five other states, including Georgia, Michigan, Louisiana, Alabama and Indiana. These schemes can be quite costly for victims as promoters may charge exorbitant upfront fees to file their claim. Some promoters of these scams have charged victims $500 for a bogus $1,000 credit. All taxpayers, including those who use paid tax preparers, are legally responsible for the accuracy of their returns, and must repay any refunds received in error, plus any interest and applicable penalties. Those who intentionally try to defraud the government may face criminal prosecution. These schemes carry a common theme of promising refunds to people who have little or no income, and are normally not required to file a federal income tax return. Promoters falsely claim they can obtain a

tax refund or nonexistent stimulus payment for their victims based on the American Opportunity Tax Credit, even if the victim was not enrolled in or paying for college. Typically, con artists falsely claim that refunds are available even if the victim never went to college, or attended decades ago. Scammers are targeting seniors, people with very low incomes and members of church congregations with false promises of free money. “Most of these scams involve promoters who prey upon people in need, building false hopes. When victims’ claims are rejected, their money and the promoters are long gone,” said IRS spokesperson David Tucker. “We want to warn the public to be on guard and stop this new scheme before more innocent people are victimized,” Tucker added. The IRS has already detected and stopped thousands of these bogus refund claims in recent weeks. The agency is actively investigating the sources of this scheme, and its promoters can be subject to criminal prosecution. Taxpayers should beware of any of the following:

• Fictitious claims for refunds or rebates based on false statements of entitlement to tax credits. • Unfamiliar for-profit tax services selling refund and credit schemes to the membership of local churches. • Internet solicitations that direct individuals to toll-free numbers and then solicit social security numbers. • Homemade flyers and brochures implying credits or refunds are available without proof of eligibility. • Offers of free money with no documentation required. • Promises of refunds for “Low Income — No Documents Tax Returns.” • Claims for the expired Economic Recovery Credit Program or for economic stimulus payments. • Unsolicited offers to prepare a return and split the refund.

• Unfamiliar return preparation firms soliciting business from cities outside of the normal business or commuting area. These refund schemes feature many of the warning signs IRS cautions taxpayers to watch for when choosing a tax preparer. For advice on choosing a competent tax professional, see Tips for Choosing a Tax Return Preparer on IRS.gov. To get the facts on tax benefits related to education, go to the Tax Benefits for Education Information

small business. From the moment you decide to open a small business, go to an accountant who specializes in working with small business owners and get advice on how to properly and accurately record all of your business expenses and revenue. Get help. Don’t have time to figure out all the ongoing changes to tax regulations? Don’t have the interest? Then get the help of a professional tax preparer immediately after you receive W-2 forms from your employer in order to complete and file your taxes before the filing deadline. The IRS offers help, too. Visit www.irs.gov for information about filing your income

taxes. Check out IRS publication 17, “Your Federal Income Tax,” on the IRS website. It highlights everything you need to know about filing your personal income tax return. The IRS also offers help over the phone and interactive tax assistance through its website.

Go electronic. Every year, more and more people file their taxes electronically. Why? Because it offers ease of use and quicker tax refunds, which are typically issued two weeks after a taxpayer files an electronic return. n ARA Content

Last-minute tax tips to help avoid paying the IRS more than necessary

re you among the millions of Americans who scramble every year to meet Uncle Sam’s income tax filing deadline? The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) estimates that one-third of Americans wait until the last minute to file their personal income tax returns (for 2011 income tax returns, the deadline has been extended to April 17). To help you make the most of tax season, here are some tips from FindLaw.com, the nation’s leading website for free legal information: Start a file. Somewhere in your home, create a place where you can store all the documents you’ll need to complete your taxes. Seek advice for your “Aptos Scoreboard” from pg 9

Boys Tennis

Palma 5 – Aptos 2 Aptos Season Record: (1-4) ptos Scoring: #1 Singles, Ryan Light (6-4, 6-1); #2 Doubles Jacob Blair & Arturo Milanes (6-4, 6-7, 10-7)

Boys Golf

Aptos 208 – Santa Cruz 276 (Seascape GC, back 9) Aptos Season Record: (2-2, SCCAL 1-0) edalist: Beau Kittleson (A) 38 – Aptos Scoring: Joe Demara 40, Scott Ueberrhein 40, Marcus Lasich 41, Ian Barbieri 49 n

16 / March 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“Cabrillo Stage” from pg 7

Swiftly taking action, Producing Artistic Director Jon Nordgren assembled a group of dedicated donors to form the Cabrillo Stage Theatre Guild. “Cabrillo Stage means so much to the Santa Cruz community,” says Producer and Music Director Jon Nordgren. “But, to keep your ’Jewel of the Community’ alive during these hard times, we need the community to rally around us.” The Guild is committed to sustaining the integrity of Cabrillo Stage as a professional musical theatre company producing full-scale Broadway productions as well as educational programming to the greater Monterey Bay Area. The Guild’s goals

include support, fundraising, outreach, and community partnering. For more information on the Guild and how to join please contact Lynn at 831-477-0127 or email: cstheatreguild@gmail.com Cabrillo Stage Dinner-Dance Fundraiser Swing Into Spring Friday, March 30 from 6:00 -10:00 PM at the Cocoanut Grove Ballroom, 400 Beach Street. Price: (includes free parking) $100 per person Dinner/Dance/Auction/Show — Sponsor a table! Reserve by 3/20 n ••• Fifty dollars per person Dance/Auction/Show — reserve in advance or purchase night of event (if available). See all price options and purchase advance tickets at: Tickets: 831-479-6154 or www.cabrillostage.com.

CommunityNews

Disaster Fraud Alert WASHINGTON — The Department of Justice, the FBI and the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) remind the public there is a potential for disaster fraud in the aftermath of a natural disaster. Suspected fraudulent activity pertaining to relief efforts associated with the recent series of tornadoes in the Midwest and South should be reported to the NCDF hotline at 866-720-5721. A live operator staffs the hotline 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for the purpose of reporting suspected scams being perpetrated by criminals in the aftermath of disasters. In the wake of natural disasters, many individuals feel compelled to contribute to victim assistance programs and organizations across the country. The Department of Justice and the FBI remind the public to apply a critical eye and do its due diligence before giving to anyone soliciting donations on behalf of tornado victims. Solicitations can originate from e-mails, websites, door-to-door collections, mailings and telephone calls, and similar methods. Before making a donation: • Do not respond to any unsolicited (spam) incoming emails, including clicking links contained within those messages, because they may contain computer viruses. • Be skeptical of individuals representing themselves as surviving victims or officials asking for donations via email or social networking sites. • Beware of organizations with copycat

names similar to but not exactly the same as those of reputable charities. • Rather than following a purported link to a website, verify the existence and legitimacy of non-profit organizations by utilizing various Internetbased resources. • Be cautious of emails that claim to show pictures of the disaster areas in attached files, because the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders. • To ensure that contributions are received and used for intended purposes, make donations directly to known organizations rather than relying on others to make the donation on your behalf.

• Do not be pressured into contributing; reputable charities do not use coercive tactics. • Do not give your personal or financial information to anyone who solicits contributions. Providing such information may compromise your identity and make you vulnerable to identity theft. • Avoid cash donations if possible. Pay by debit or credit card, or write a

check directly to the charity. Do not make checks payable to individuals. • Legitimate charities do not normally solicit donations via money transfer services. • Most legitimate charities maintain websites ending in .org rather than .com. In addition to raising public awareness, the NCDF is the intake center for all disaster relief fraud. Therefore, if you observe that someone has submitted a fraudulent claim for disaster relief, or any other suspected fraudulent activities pertaining to the receipt of government funds as part of disaster relief or clean up, please contact the NCDF. If you believe that you have been a victim of fraud by a person or organization soliciting relief funds on behalf of tornado victims, or if you discover fraudulent disaster relief claims submitted by a person or organization, contact the NCDF by phone at (866) 720-5721, fax at (225) 334-4707 or email at disaster@leo.gov. You can also report suspicious e-mail solicitations or fraudulent websites to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov. n

Public Meeting on the State of the Fair WATSONVILLE — On a Wednesday evening, March 7, Santa Cruz County Fair Management Team leader Dave Kegebein welcomed 150 or so members of the community to the first “State of the Fairgrounds” meeting. Retired fair manager John Kegebein began the evening with a quick Fairground history lesson and then Dave Kegebein took the assembled through current operations and the budget realities facing the fairgrounds. The meeting then moved on to planning for the future including: Develop a five-year business plan to achieve operational stability. Undertake a master plan update to modernize the infrastructure. Create a strategic plan to create long tern financial stability. The management team then offered the floor to those in the audience seeking public comment, suggestions, and offers

of help. A follow up public meeting will be held in a few months to report on progress made to shore up the financial foundation of the Fairgrounds and annual Fair. The Santa Cruz County Fair celebrates the rich agricultural history of our community and people, and invests heavily in bringing this heritage to our youth. The 2012 Fair will be held September 11 - 16 at the Fairgrounds located on Highway 152 just east of Watsonville. Information on the Fair, and the Fairgrounds - a year round entertainment and event venue, can be found atwww.santacruzcountyfair.com n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2012 / 17

PrivateSchoolO OpenHouse

How to Be an Elementary or Middle School Parent

Tips for Fostering Social Development

By Craig Knippenberg

ollowing academics, perhaps parents’ second-greatest area of concern relates to their children’s social development. “Are they making friends?” “Are they working with the group?” “Are they being excluded?” These are frequently asked questions at conference time. While the small, safe, and nurturing environment of the independent school — combined with their longstanding tradition of focusing on the whole child — offers great opportunities for social engagement and social learning, these same environments can present unique challenges as children and teens go through the normal ups and downs inherent to social development. These 10 tips are designed to help parents navigate this frequently changing landscape. 1. Stay Relaxed and Keep Your Own Emotions at a Distance. Like any area of education, social learning takes place through successes and mistakes. Kids will struggle at times and need to know you will be an island of stability in sometimes stormy seas. 2. Be Role Models in Communication and Relationship Management. Research shows that one of the biggest predictors of middle school students gossiping about each other was gossiping among their parents. If you model positive social and emotional skills, so will your kids. 3. Maintain Your Friendships. Independent school families often form close friendships between the children and parents during the early elementary years. At the same time, it’s not uncommon for children to completely change their friends during the later elementary and middle

school years. Agree with other parents that you will maintain your friendship even if your children decide no longer to be friends. 4. Discuss Social Issues in a Calm Manner. Start with some basic facts and don’t go too deep into it when your child has a problem. Always empower your child’s ability to problem-solve and try some solutions as a first step. If the problem appears to be more serious and above a student’s level of management, let the school know what’s going on so that teachers and administrators can foster resolution, monitor the situation, and enforce discipline if necessary. “Being a Student’s Parent” > 21

The Aptos Academy 2012 Upcoming Events: Open House: March 15, 6–8 pm Open House & Art Festival: May 19, 11 am–3 pm Annual Social & Auction: March 31, 5–9 pm @ Chaminade Resort & Spa Harvest Carnival: October 27

Phone: 831-688-1080 Address: 1940 Bonita Dr., Aptos 95003 Web Site: www.aptosacademy.org

The Aptos Academy is an affordable, WASC-accredited, non-denominational school for PreK through 8th grade students. Located on a beautiful five-acre campus, this non-profit school’s mission is about to provide a safe educational environment where students are excited about learning and can discover and meet their full potential, while studying at their own rate on an enriched curriculum. Good study skills, fully understanding materials before moving on, good citizenship and daily P.E. are all emphasized. A summer day camp is also offered. 18 / March 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

CommunityNews

Tips for choosing tax preparation software

nstead of paying a professional hundreds of dollars to do their taxes, an increasing number of U.S. taxpayers are doing it themselves. The IRS reports that 9.8 million tax returns were self-prepared and e-filed last year, a 14.2 percent increase over the previous year. The trend toward self-preparation is in part due to the high price of professional tax preparation. Though fees have remained steady over the last few years, the National Society of Accountants’ 2011 survey reports the average fee for a Form 1040 with Schedule A plus a state return was $233, and $128 for a non-itemized Form 1040 and state return. Not only have more affordable do-ityourself tax preparation software solutions become easy enough for tax novices to use, they allow consumers the luxury of doing their taxes at their leisure from the comforts of home. Products have also made getting answers and one-on-one help quick and easy. Price of Software hough the look and feel of user interfaces varies some across brands, the key differentiator between tax preparation

software is price. Products range from free to more than $100, but most taxpayers should find the lower-priced products more than adequate. Several brands even offer free federal products, though most only include forms for “simple” taxes, meaning forms for Form 1040EZ and non-itemized returns. TaxACT is the only free federal product that includes all e-fileable forms for simple and complex returns. If you’re not sure what forms you need, start with the free product. You can upgrade if you need or want to later. State returns usually cost extra. Look Out for Fees esides product fees, look at any fees for tax help and electronic filing of your return. Fees for one-on-one tax and technical help vary widely. While some brands offer “free” help, their software costs more. You pay for help whether you use it or not. Help via email isn’t widely offered, but it is free

with all TaxACT products, including Free Federal Edition. Most product fees include efiling, but there are slight variations. You may find that adding a fee or two onto the product price still costs much less than an allinclusive product. Take a close look at product websites and consider checking out expert reviews in top technology and software publications. Internet Options nline tax preparation solutions are the most widely used since they’re accessible wherever there’s an Internet connection and Web applications are more commonplace. Some are even iPad optimized. Downloadable software is still popular but on the decline. Unlike its digital counterpart, downloadable software typically allows users to prepare multiple returns - a good option for users who prepare returns for friends and family. The beauty of both digital and downloadable products is the interview that

breaks complicated tax forms down to a simple Q&A format with explanations and help along the way. The program does the math and completes the appropriate forms. If you want to see what’s happening behind the scenes, most solutions allow you to view your forms as you go and/or at the end of the interview before you file. Best of all, the product will save your information if you want to stop and finish later. Itemized Deductions and Changing Tax Status ome products offer extra tools that can help save time and increase your refund. Popular “extras” include data import from last year’s return or investment data files. If you itemize deductions and donated household items, there are tools to help determine the fair market value of the items and calculate your total deduction. Many products also offer extra guidance through major life changes. Whether you’re new to tax preparation software or switching brands, don’t be afraid to take a couple products for a test drive.

“Tax Prep” > 30

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2012 / 19

BusinessProfile

ACPTOS Y OGA CENTER ELEBRATES 2 ND A NNIVERSARY

Moving Forward with Simple, Safe, and Effective Yoga

By Gail Penniman

he community at Aptos Yoga Center is delighted to be celebrating its second anniversary with a full day of events centered on the practice of Svaroopa® (pronounced Swar-oop-ah) Yoga as well as the sciences that support it. Svaroopa® Yoga is a non-athletic form of hatha yoga where flexibility is not a requirement —- it is a result! Many poses are done with the support of soft blankets, safely and effectively releasing the deepest layers of tension in the body along the spine. The result is deep relaxation, healing and peace for mind and body and soul. The instructors, Christine Kalavati Hernandez and Lizabeth Chudala Darling, are certified Svaroopa® Yoga teachers who found this deeply supportive discipline as an answer to their own heath and wellness searches. For both of them, Svaroopa® Yoga became a way of life that has brought so much joy that they just had to share it with others. The Aptos Yoga Center is the only yoga center in the county that teaches Svaroopa® Yoga. The students have experienced lifechanging benefits from practicing this form of Yoga in the classes and on their own at home. They would like to share these experiences with others:

varoopa® Yoga is a different way of doing familiar poses. It benefits not only the athletic, but also average people of all ages with stiffness and/or minor pain. I feel a measurable difference in body and mind during the class, but also afterwards. There’s no risk with the poses due to the watchful eye of the instructor, and you may find that you’ve learned something not only about the practice, but also about yourself.” — James T. •••

Kaya Mindlin • Michael Manzella

March 24 Celebration Schedule of FREE Events

his is the best yoga class I have attended in the 30 years I have lived in Santa Cruz.” — Rebecca S. ••• was resigned to having arthroscopic [knee] surgery when a friend introduced me to Liz Darling’s Svaroopa® yoga class. I began taking classes and additionally had individual yoga therapy treatments. After four classes and two therapy sessions my knee began feeling better. I was relieved that the therapy required no manipulation of my knee and was painless. By the 10th session, my knee was healed and I resumed surfing. Interestingly, my knee now has more flexibility and range of motion then before it was injured.” — Tom R.

The Benefits, the Options he many benefits of Svaroopa® Yoga include: stress reduction, deep relaxation, back and sciatic nerve pain relief, improved flexibility and reduction of muscle tension, improved posture and increased strength, improved circulation, increased energy, better concentration and mental clarity and over-all health improvement, and a deep sense of well-being. Students are encouraged to practice the breathing and poses at home. Christine and Lizabeth tell their students that if they just practice the breathing exercise and four basic poses everyday there will be dramatic changes in their bodies and their lives.

20 / March 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Students comment frequently, “This yoga is completely different from any yoga I have taken before.” Lizabeth says, “Our challenge as teachers is to help the students to only go as far as the body wants to go into a pose and then to soften into it. It is not about how deep or how far you can go, but just addressing where that tension is in that moment and resting into that.” One of the guiding principles of Svaroopa® is that “bones are for support and muscles are for movement.” So, Liz and Christine teach their students to stand using their bones and to effectively use their muscles. It is a subtle difference and one that can have profound effects, allowing students to use their bodies differently and with much less effort during everyday activities. Aptos Yoga Center offerings include: • Blissful Basics and Continuing level yoga classes, 90 min. each • Meditation, Slo-Yo (slower paced), and other series classes • Half Day Workshops • Yoga Therapy—provides individualized attention to address pain issues • Embodyment® Therapy—gentle hands-on therapy releases the tightest muscles in the body at the base of the spine, relieving chronic conditions including neck and back pain, sciatica, migraines and more • Vichara Therapy—private session to identify and release any negative patterns

9 am – 10 am Blissful Beginnings Svaroopa® Yoga Class* 10:15 am – 11:15 am Magic Four Svaroopa® Yoga Class* 11:30 am – 1:30 pm “Understanding Ayurveda and Yoga: Sister Sciences” presentation by Kaya Mindlin followed by Ayurvedic food tasting 1:30 pm – 1:45 pm Digestion pose 1:45 – 2:45 pm “How to lead a Balanced Life: the Four Aims of Life” presentation by Michael Manzella 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm Puppet show – a Jataka Tale, “Golden Foot” followed by felted wool puppet making with Kathleen Avalon* 4:15 – 5:00 pm Performance by Adrea Castiano singer/songwriter of soulful Spiritual, Blues and Jazz *Registration is required for yoga classes and puppet making

resulting from upsetting life experiences and to bring greater joy to life • Customized home practice development and coaching so students can fully integrate Svaroopa® Yoga into his or her life-style

Christine says, “This is yoga that just about anybody can do. Most students feel relaxed and refreshed after just a few safe and effective poses.” Both teachers encourage drop-ins to their classes and provide first-timers with something they can take home and practice on their own. n ••• The schedule of classes is posted on their website: www.aptosyoga.org or you may call them at 688-1019. The Aptos Yoga Center is located at 783 Rio Del Mar Blvd. (Deer Park Center) suite 23B (upper level), Aptos, CA 95003

CommunityNews

The Traveler’s Guide: Be a Safe Tourist When You Go Abroad

By Andrew Daniels

he world today encompasses very real concerns of crime, health risks, natural disasters and terrorism that can disrupt the best-planned vacations. Travelers need to be aware of the risks they can face when vacationing to an unfamiliar territory. Whether you are a student going on spring break, a family vacationing together or are traveling strictly for business, there are some items that you should ensure are checked off of your pre-trip list before you depart for your destination. Protect Your Identity roof of identity and citizenship are critical while traveling abroad. Your personal safety, and ability to travel, will be at risk if your passport and other identification are lost or stolen. Remember to take a photocopy of your passport and other identification with you on your travels. Keep it in a safe place, in the event something happens to the original. As soon as you know you are going to travel abroad, locate your passport and make sure all of the information is correct. If you were over age 16 when your passport was issued, it is valid for 10 years. If you were age 15 or younger when your passport was issued, your passport is valid for 5 years. If you need to apply for a passport, do so at least three months in advance of your trip to avoid fees associated with expediting the process.

Check for Travel Warnings and Advisories he U.S. Department of State’s website, www.travel.state.gov, should be your first stop when planning for international travel. The website will provide locations that currently have a travel warning or alert. There is also information about foreign countries’ laws and policies as well as other international travel resources. Even if you don’t think the weather will stop you from a great vacation, it could delay your travel arrangements or even cancel them altogether due to a natural disaster. Check your destination’s local weather forecast for storms and warnings. Remember to check on your travel status before leaving if the weather is bad in your departure or arrival area. Register with the State Department egister your travel plans with the State Department through a free online service at www.travelregistration.state.gov. All

U.S. citizens travelling or residing abroad can provide travel and personal information to the State Department so that in an emergency situation, you can be contacted. Insure Yourself o one ever plans on getting sick or being hurt while traveling, but it could happen. Be prepared by reviewing your health insurance to find out if it will cover you in a foreign country. If your health insurance does not cover you, there is the option of purchasing travel insurance. This insurance provides health coverage, protects you if your trip is delayed or cut short, or if you need to cancel your trip for one of the covered reasons such as illness or a natural disaster. Contact Your Credit Card and Cell Phone Company f you plan on using credit cards during your travel, alert your providers to your travel dates. This way they do not put a hold on or decline a purchase because they

“Being a Student’s Parent” from pg 18

5. Offer Another Perspective. Help your child look at any social challenge from a different perspective and develop some emotional distance. You might say, “He/she always spoke highly of you, social mistakes are part of growing up, middle school involves trying on different roles and behaviors, strong reactions often make it worse, some kids like to be top dogs, don’t worry about being popular, just be a friend.” 6. Hold Your Child Accountable. Start by accepting that every child has the capacity to make a social mistake. If the school calls with a concern, support the teacher and let your child know what your expectations are for appropriate behavior. Questioning the teachers only weakens the schools’ ability to maintain top behavioral standards. 7. Reinforce Positive Social Behavior. Let your child know how proud you are of his or her positive behavior. Be

extra positive when your child stands up to inappropriate behavior, protects a victimized classmate, or leads the majority in making positive friendships the norm for the classroom.

8. Have Social Goals. As with academics, have specific social and emotional goals for your child. Identify specific behaviors that are problematic or could be enhanced and develop

know that it is actually you using the card. It is also suggested to use credit cards rather than debit cards because credit companies offer fraud protection required by federal regulations. If you plan on taking your cell phone with you, check with your provider to make sure your service will work wherever you go. There may be an extra charge for international or roaming calls or data services. Make sure that your phone is pre-programmed with important emergency numbers at home and you have a charger that will work where you’re heading. Arrange for your Home and Animals f you are leaving for a long period, it is best to alert a neighbor, nearby family member or friend of when you are leaving and returning. Ask them to keep an eye on your property and outside belongings. You may also want to consider having your house sitter pick up your mail or you can put a hold on your mail being delivered at the post office. If your house sitter and your animals are familiar with each other, they could keep each other company while you’re away. However, if not, a great alternative is sending animals on their own retreat while you are gone. Many facilities offer great amenities to keep animals happy while their owners are away. n ••• Andrew Daniels is a Vice President at AlliedBarton Security Services.

expectations and a plan for improvements in these areas. 9. Monitor Electronic Socializing. Start slow with emailing, texting, and other cyber-communications and rigorously monitor your child’s activities. Make sure you have the passwords and let your child know that you will be reading all content. Develop a “no deletion” rule, which means you are the only one who is allowed to delete content or they will lose the privilege. 10. Relax and Seek Additional Guidance. Seek help if your child’s struggles appear to be chronic in nature, if the teacher suggests so, or if your child has consistent distress over what his or her reality is versus what he or she wants in his or her social life. n ••• Craig Knippenberg is the consultant for St. Anne’s Episcopal School (Colorado), is on the board of trustees for Denver Academy (Colorado), and is the founder of adventuredad.org.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2012 / 21

FeaturedColumnist The Book Bag by Robert Francis

The Book Bag by Robert Francis

The Confession An Inspector Ian Rutledge Mystery

By Charles Todd William Morrow. $25.99 (Rating-Very Good) t was just one of those days, so when Wyatt Russell walked into Inspector Ian Rutledge’s office at Scotland Yard and confessed to killing his cousin, Justin Fowler, over five years ago, the inspector took the information with a grain of salt. Since Russell is reluctant to provide any meaningful details and can’t even come up with a motive for the alleged crime, Rutledge realizes there’s something more going on here. With no corpse and little to act upon, the confessed killer isn’t locked up. Then, two weeks later, he is found floating in the Thames with a bullet in his head. Now it is time to launch a homicide investigation and the first thing Rutledge discovers is that the dead man gave him a false name. Using a locket found around the dead man’s neck, the inspector traces the victim to a remote village in Essex. The case load expands with additional deaths and the inhabitants of the village are less than forthcoming, which suggests perhaps there are some interesting skeletons hidden away in this little hamlet. Of course, Rutledge will keep digging until the truth is revealed even though it may shatter the the tranquility of the area. Set in the 1920s, this is the 14th installment of this long running and popular series. As with its predecessors, the appeal of this novel is not just the plot but also the central character. The terrors of combat in World War I still haunt the inspector and he continues to grapple with the demons it unleashed.

The Alpine Winter An Emma Lord Mystery

By Mary Daheim Ballantine. $25 (Rating-Very Good) mma Lord, editor and publisher of the “Alpine Advocate”, a newspaper in the town of Alpine in Washington’s Cascade Mountains, is caught between breaking news stories and a depleted staff. Emma’s star reporter has left after learning that his son has escaped from prison.

Action and adventure with a hint of suspense …

A decomposed corpse found in a cave on Mount Sawyer also demands journalistic attention, as does Postmaster Roy Everson, who shows up with the bones he believes belong to his mother who has been missing for the past 16 years. Good gracious, what’s going on in this normally bucolic mountain community? If that’s not enough to unsettle the normally calm editor, she and her lover, Sheriff Milo Dodge, are probably going to have to inform Emma’s brother and son of their relationship. That may create a few waves if not an avalanche of family angst since both men happen to be priests! Besides personal matters the blissful pair also face a rather serious problem since they seem to have acquired a rather determined adversary who is set on making sure their romantic relationship comes to a bittersweet end. This character driven mystery series has been a hit with readers for decades and this 23rd installment attests to the fact that Mary Daheim can still spin a riveting plot that will keep her fans glued to the page. The Seattle native is a direct descendant of former residents of the real Alpine which was abandoned in the late 1920s. Thanks to Daheim’s series, the deserted site was named a Washington State ghost town last year.

Gideon’s Corpse

By Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child Grand Central. $26.99 (Rating-Excellent) Los Alamos scientist goes crazy, takes his landlord’s family hostage and is killed by a SWAT team before he can be interrogated. His corpse is as radioactive as the Japanese nuclear reactor at the Fukushima power plant. Meanwhile, a sinister plume of radiation has been detected over New York City where apparently a nuclear device has just

22 / March 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

been assembled before being hidden away someplace in the metropolitan area. Called in by Effective Engineering Solutions to assist with the crisis, Dr. Gideon Crew has been paired with an FBI agent to track the mysterious terrorist cell bent on vaporizing one of the America’s major cities. Gideon has just ten days to find and neutralize the folks determined to finish the job started on 9/11. The search will take him from New York back to the mountains of New Mexico and what Gideon uncovers will shake him to his very core. Although he believes the scenario couldn’t be worse than what was outlined for him when he started this frenetic quest, in point of fact it is – much worse! The writing duo of Preston and Child have created some spellbinding thrillers, but this second installment of the new Gideon series may be one of their best yarns to date. They pull out all the stops in this one and refuse to let their readers pause for even an instant. Even at over 300 pages this could easily be a one or two day read!

Defending Jacob

By William Landay Delacorte Press. $26 (Rating-Very Good) nyone who has a child will appreciate the dilemma Assistant District Attorney Andy Barber finds himself in. A respected member of his community and a bulldog in the courtroom, Barber finds his professional and personal life ripped apart when the unthinkable happens. His 14 year old son is charged with the murder of a classmate. Of course Barber intends to do everything in his power to protect Jacob, but a series of revelations and the evidence will make that a daunting task. Determined to defend his son in the courtroom, Barber will go up against a formidable and knowledge prosecution team led by a man he trained. With his marriage

teetering on the rocks and his son’s freedom at stake Andy Barber is about to face a legal battle that will challenge his skill as a lawyer and his role as a parent. Of the situation he creates in this novel William Landay writes, “Ordinary parents are shocked at what they find when they finally do check out what their son has been up to on the internet. I think that is probably a common experience, or would be if more parents were more alert to the danger.” If you enjoy legal thrillers and riveting courtroom drama, “Defending Jacob” is a novel you won’t want to miss. It is an unforgettable story that hits close to home and may well be one of the blockbusters of the year.

No Mark Upon Her

By Deborah Crombie William Morrow. $25.99 (Rating-Excellent) etropolitan Police Officer Rebecca Meredith hopes to resurrect her reputation as a former rowing champion and Olympic hopeful by qualifying for the upcoming games in London. Training on the Thames near her Henly cottage has become a daily routine as Meredith works to regain her old form. Then disaster strikes when the rower’s body is found in the river. It’s a perplexing situation given how good a swimmer Meredith was and what initially is considered a tragic accident soon becomes a murder investigation. Asked to conduct the inquiry into the former Met officer’s death, Scotland Yard Superintendent Duncan Kincaid finds the dead woman had managed to get on the wrong side of quite a few people. The suspects range from an Olympic rowing coach and a coworker to her ex-husband and a mysterious character seen on the bank of the river the night Meredith drowned. As in the past, the chief inspector’s wife, Detective Inspector Gemma James, will have a hand in solving this baffling case. Finding the killer is going to tax the abilities of both detectives since this quickly turns into a very high stakes investigation. n

CommunityNews

Cabrillo Gallery Hosts Jessica Dunne Exhibit

he Cabrillo Gallery hosts the exhibition Jessica Dunne: Familiar Mysteries. The exhibition continues through Friday, April 20, 2012. Events are free and open to the public. Winner of the Cabrillo Gallery Exhibition Award, San Francisco resident and artist Jessica Dunne, exhibits her recent paintings, monotypes, and aquatints of urban and rural landscapes. Best described

Familiar Mysteries, March 16 - April 20

as a realist painter, her subject matter challenges the concept of realism and place. A blend of eerie emptiness resonates from her work, even in those pieces depicting a traffic-burdened freeway. Despite the emptiness, there is not a sense of loneliness. Dunne’s ability to capture a deep moment of contemplation, and warmth, resonates throughout all of her work. “A few years ago, while driving down

the highway at night in my hometown, I was overwhelmed with nostalgia for my childhood,” states Dunne. “I then realized there was a brownout and–with all the streetlights extinguished–the dark road was as I had experienced it as a child, before we replaced stars with sodiumvapor bulbs. Over the years, on visits to “Cabrillo Gallery” > 25

Jessica Dunne’s Lenox Street

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2012 / 23

Squares in Your Head, General Case FeaturedColumnist

n the first column, I showed how you could square any 2-digit multiple of 5 in your head. For example, 35 X 35 can be found by multiplying 3 x 4 to get 12, the left 2 digits of the answer. The right two digits are 25, so 35 x 35 = 1225. In the second column, I showed how you could use this to get the numbers above and below easily. For example, 31x31 can be found by taking 30x30, which is 900, and adding 60+1 to get 961. Similarly, 29x29 can be found by taking 30x30 to get 900, subtracting 60, then adding 1 to get 841. Both of these tricks are special cases; one for numbers divisible by 5, another for numbers just above or below an easy to compute number. In this column I’ll show a general technique that can be used for any whole number, even numbers bigger than 100. Let’s suppose you wanted to square 23, that is, 23 x 23. The idea, as I said before, is to change a hard problem into an easier one. So do this: subtract 3 from one 23 to get 20. Then add 3 to the other 23 to get 26. Now instead of 23 x 23, we have 20 x 26, which is much easier. Just double 26 to get 52, add a 0 to make 520. (Not

Both of these tricks are special cases; one for numbers divisible by 5, another for numbers just above or below an easy to compute number. In this column I’ll show a general technique that can be used for any whole number, even numbers bigger than 100.

through yet). Finally, because we went up and down by 3,we must add 3 x 3 = 9 to 520, giving 529, which is the answer. This method is based on the fact that A x A = (A + B)(A - B) + (B x B). If we want to square A, we can add and subtract B to/from it to get an easier problem, then add B x B. In the example, A = 23, and B = 3. Let’s do a more interesting example. Suppose you want to square 97, and you don’t have pencil, paper or calculator. No problem, it’s easy. Add 3 to 97 to get 100,

24 / March 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

subtract 3 to get 94, multiply 94 by 100 (just add 2 0’s) to get 9400. Now finish by adding 9, which is 3 x 3, and the answer is 9409. As you practice, you’ll gradually memorize the squares up to about 20 or 25, and this will help you do larger problems. For example, let’s square 87 mentally. No problem. I know that 13x13 is 169. So I add and subtract 13 from 87 to get 100 and 74, multiply those to get 7400, then add 169 to get 7569: 87x87 = 7569. This will also work on three digit

numbers. Suppose I want to square 108. Drop 8 to 100, add 8 to get 116. Multiply these to get 11,600. Finally add 8x8 = 64, and you’ve got it: 108x108 = 11, 864. Once you become good at squaring your two digit numbers, this skill can be used to make multiplying other numbers easy. For example, 17x19 is very easy. They are two apart. Just square the number between them (18) and subtract 1: 17x19 = 18x18 - 1 = 323. In the next column I’ll show you how to use the squares and other tricks making it easier to do calculations in your head. n Bert Lundy is the Director of Learn for Excellence tutoring center, 1929 Main St., Watsonville. 831-761-8900.

HomeandG Garden

Five Tips for Navigating a Wine List By David White

avigating a wine list can be daunting.

Even wine geeks are intimidated by the leather-bound tomes that so many restaurants hand out. When the wine list doesn’t land on the table with a thud, patrons are still met with unrecognizable regions and producers. Plus, no matter where you dine or how much you know, prices can be senseless. Fortunately, deciphering a restaurant’s list doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are five simple tips. Ask For Help he era of the snooty sommelier (wine steward) is over. Whereas yesteryear’s sommeliers were glorified sales agents who intimidated their guests by pushing expensive, predictable wines, today’s sommeliers are wine zealots, eager to share their passion and palates. So if the restaurant you’re visiting employs a wine professional, ask for advice. Most are keen to help patrons find the perfect wine, regardless of the price. Be Brave f you’re at a restaurant with an impressive wine list, seize the opportunity to be

Dentistry for Animals

Practice Devoted to Dentistry & Oral Surgery

T I

“Cabrillo Gallery” from pg 23

my childhood home, I had been incensed by the new three-story beach ‘mansions’ and tee-shirt dealerships, yet had taken little notice of the street lighting that had altered the nature of night itself. The dark highway was a visual prompt into a memory of my past, something that rarely happens, especially in contrast to the constant reminders of other times through taste, sound and smell. This is how I came upon my current project, an exploration of night as seen through a car’s windshield. In a few years, the highway power cartel will replace the greenish mercury-vapor and pink sodiumvapor streetlights that dominate my work with sun-like halide bulbs, once again altering our nocturnal world (and my palette). My goal is to get my present experience down on canvas before it disappears. A wonder in the mystery of these relationships forges the forms, imagery and atmosphere, which frequently surface through their own suggestion or volition. I employ restrained combined uses of various mixed mediums, solid and liquid, on a variety of grounds, in an attempt to evoke a visceral response to one’s own experience of nature and consciousness.” n •••

adventurous. Your dinner companions will be impressed with your courage, and you’ll learn something new. “Wine List” > 27

Jessica Dunne: Familiar Mysteries When: March 16 - April 20, 2012 Cabrillo Gallery, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos - Free Event!

Judy Force, DVM Fellow of the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry

nless you are regularly providing some form of dental care, you are neglecting an important factor in the overall health of your pet. With a thoroughness and sensitivity for the importance of an animal’s dental health, Dr. Force’s skills include all aspects of dental and oral surgery. We work closely with primary care veterinarians who entrust us with the

clients and pets they refer. Our mission is to provide a total pet oral health care environment with superior customer service, ensuring that the needs of the pet, the client and referring veterinarian are met. Dentistry for Animals 8035 Soquel Dr. #45, Aptos, CA 95003 All visits by appointment only. To schedule for an appointment call 831-768-7148. Website: www.DentistryforAnimals.com

Cabrillo Gallery is located in the Library building, room #1002, in the center of the uphill side of the Cabrillo College campus. Hours Monday – Friday, 9 – 4 pm including

Monday and Tuesday evenings 7 – 9 pm. The Cabrillo Gallery is free and accessible to all. Parking can be found in any of the numerous metered parking areas.

Jessica Dunne’s Guiding Light

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2012 / 25

FeaturedColumnist

Air Standards Defeat Smog L os Angeles is almost as famous for its choking smog—a haze of groundlevel ozone and particulate pollution that can aggravate asthma and other respiratory problems—as for its Hollywood stars. The reason so much smog forms there is because the city is in a low basin surrounded by mountains, with millions of cars and industrial sites spewing emissions into the air. But thanks to tougher state and federal air quality standards, L.A. residents can breathe easier than they’ve been able to for decades. According to the non-profit Environment California, air pollution from cars and trucks across the state has decreased since the 1970s by more than 85 percent, with peak smog levels in the city of Los Angeles itself dropping some 70 percent. Meanwhile, California’s South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) has been tracking smog levels in the area since 1976, and reports the number of ozone advisories—where residents are advised to stay indoors due to unhealthy local accumulations of smog—fell from a high of 184 days in 1977 to between zero

Dear EarthTalk: I was in Los Angeles recently and the smog was not nearly as bad as when I visited 15 years ago. Is it really better now, and if so, how did it get that way? Or did I just happen to visit on a good day?

and a few days a year now. “California’s efforts to reduce air pollution from cars and trucks have made the state’s air cleaner than it has been in decades and Californians are healthier as a result,” says Bernadette Del Chiaro, Environment California’s clean energy advocate. This is especially notable because the number of miles driven in California doubled since the 1970s even though emissions significantly dropped—meaning that vehicles have gotten considerably more fuel efficient over the years. “The technologies found on new car lots today were practically unimaginable even 20 years ago, much less 40 years ago,” adds Del Chiaro. “Yet thanks to strong policies, California has pushed the auto industry to innovate and engineer a greener, cleaner car.”

— Marjorie Hicke, Atlanta, GA

According to Environment California’s research, a typical new car today is more than 99 percent cleaner burning than its 1960s counterpart. An older car produces about a ton of smog-forming pollution every 100,000 miles; a new car generates only 10 pounds over the same distance. This improvement saves consumers money at the pump as well as health care expenses and lives due to reduced pollution loads. And a new generation of hybrid and electric cars is driving automotive efficiency to even newer heights. Updated federal air quality standards implemented in 2008 have also helped reduce ozone alert days in California and elsewhere. But despite this progress, environmental and public health advocates are urging federal lawmakers to raise air quality standards even higher. The goal is to get ground level ozone, a chief contributor to

smog, no more prevalent than the range of 60-70 parts per billion averaged over eight hours, as unanimously recommended by an independent board of air experts and scientists created under the Clean Air Act to provide periodic review and recommendations on air quality standards. The Obama administration reportedly considered updating the 2008 standard last summer but decided to table the decision until 2013 given economic priorities. Let’s hope that the economy turns around enough in the meantime so that industry won’t push back too hard against raising the federal standards. n ••• Contacts: Environment California, www.environmentcalifornia.org; AQMD, www.aqmd.gov. EarthTalk® is written and edited by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss and is a registered trademark of E - The Environmental Magazine (www.emagazine.com). Send questions to: earthtalk@emagazine.com.

The secret to our wedding’s success was coastalwedding.com

coastalwedding.com

articles • sights & services directory • tips & advice your one stop source for wedding information on the central coast 26 / March 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Photo Credit: Photodisc/Thinkstock

State and federal air quality standards, combined with cleaner burning engines on new vehicles cut California air pollution from cars and trucks by more than 85 percent since the 1970s, with peak smog levels in Los Angeles dropping 70 percent.

CommunityNews

Capitola Soroptimists Honor Three Locals at Awards Dinner

oroptimists International of CapitolaBy-The-Sea honored three local women at its annual awards dinner Tuesday night including Santa Cruz Sentinel writer/reporter Jondi Gumz, Pacific Collegiate senior, Rose Leopold and UCSC student, Yuliana Vasquez. The three women earned their awards based on their service to women and their communities and to their personal growth and achievements. Gumz received the Ruby award for Women Helping Woman, which included a $500 check to her favorite charity, Scotts Valley High School Parents Club. Rose Leopold, a senior at Pacific Collegiate School, the Violet Richardson award winner, was presented with a check for $500

for her volunteer work teaching nutrition classes to mothers and children in Mexico. The Soroptimist’s Women’s Opportunity Award with a check for $2,000 was presented to Yuliana Vasquez, a UCSC student, single mother and head of her household. All three winners were also honored with certificates, proclamations and letters of congratulations from local, state and federal offices including Assemblyman William Monning, California Senator Joe Simitian, U.S. Representative Anna Eshoo, Senator Diane Feinstein, Santa Cruz County Supervisor John Leopold, Scotts Valley Mayor Donna Lind and Monterey County Supervisor Jane Parker. Santa Cruz County Supervisor John Leopold present-

“Wine List” from pg 25

people are going to get their first impression.” Ordering by the glass also enables patrons to try a wine before committing to it — it’s not frowned upon to ask your server for a taste of something before ordering a full glass. Plus, ordering by the glass makes it easier to try a variety of wines at one meal. Remember That You’re In Charge s your wine too warm? Do you feel pressured to spend more than you’d like? Is your server refilling your glass too quickly? If the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” speak up! Restaurants are notorious for serving red wine too warm — reds should always be served slightly cool, at about 60-65 degrees. So if your wine tastes like it’s been sitting at room temperature, ask for an ice bucket or switch to a white wine — or beer. If the sommelier is steering you towards something too expensive, there was probably a miscommunication. So say something. If you don’t want to let your guests know how much you’re spending, point to the price you’re thinking and ask for something similar. Finally, don’t be embarrassed to ask your server to slow down. I always insist on finishing my glass of wine before it’s refilled. That way, I can track the wine’s evolution and better monitor how much I’ve consumed. While there are countless other ways to navigate a restaurant’s wine program, these five tips should be easy to remember — and help elevate your next dining experience. n ••• David White, a wine writer, is the founder and editor of Terroirist.com. His columns are housed at Wines.com, the fastest growing wine portal on the Internet.

If you like Chardonnay, for example, consider Viognier. If you like Sauvignon Blanc, try Torrontes or Albarino. If you typically order California Cabernet, consider ordering Malbec or Sangiovese. And don’t be afraid of Merlot. Even though it’s become cool to bash the grape, Merlot can be as rich as Cabernet Sauvignon, and is generally more approachable. If everyone at your table has ordered something different, opt for an unusual wine that’ll pair with virtually everything. For white, think Austrian Gruner Veltliner. For red, think Sicilian Nero d’Avola. Look For Value recently chatted with Kathy Morgan MS — one of just 186 people worldwide to earn the “master sommelier” designation — and she insisted that good deals can be found virtually everywhere. “Don’t be afraid to order cheaper wines, especially if the wine list was put together by a sommelier or a wine professional,” she explained. “If thought is put into the list, all the wines should be good.” If there isn’t a sommelier, Morgan advises people to seek out wines from less popular regions. At steakhouses, for example, you can often find deals on Pinot Noir from France and the United States, as most patrons order bigger wines. And at every restaurant, wines from Spain typically offer a great value. Try Some Glasses organ is also convinced that skipping the bottle list can be a wise decision. “At restaurants with serious wine programs,” she explained, “sommeliers see wines by the glass as an introduction to their programs — they know that’s where

ed proclamations to the winners, and Assembly Member William Monning’s Senior Field Representative, Adam Spickler, presented certificates on behalf of Monning, Simitian, Eschoo, Feinstein, Mayor Lind and Supervisor Parker. Soroptimist, a Latin word meaning Best for Women, is a worldwide service organization for women who work to improve the lives of women and girls in local communities and throughout the world. For more information, or to become a member willing to work to help us help women and girls, visit the SI Capitola website at www.best4women.org or contact SI Capitola at info@best4women.org.

Award winner Jondi Gumz (from left), Violet Richardson Award winner Rose Leopold and Women's Opportunity Award winner Yuliana Vasquez were honored on Tuesday.

March Madness

ACROSS 1. Frosting on a cake, e.g. 6. Heat or energy unit 9. *School with most championships 13. Love intensely 14. Dr. Cornelius in sci-fi movie classic, e.g. 15. Like dragon after knight's conquest 16. Copperfield's domain 17. Eating of forbidden fruit, e.g. 18. Total amount 19. *Game tracker 21. In an open way 23. Not vertical, abbr. 24. Be sick

25. Emergency responders 28. Home to Stags Leap and Wild Horse 30. Superlative of "yare" 35. Reluctant, usually followed by "to" 37. A tall one is not true 39. The present occasion 40. U.N. civil aviation agency 41. Rossini's opus, e.g. 43. It travels through air 44. Pulsating pain 46. At a great distance 47. *Final ____ 48. Some give this when upset 50. Drug abuser 52. Dry, as in humor 53. Eagerness 55. Clinton ___ Rodham 57. Famous for its coffee 60. *Goes with March 64. NBC's "The _____"

7. *Ranking based on strength of schedule 8. Major Italian seaport 9. ___ Bator, Mongolia 10. Collect telephone __ 11. Monet's water flower 12. "___ day now" 15. Novelist ____ Zweig 20. Muse of love poetry 22. Be nosey 24. Deadly or sinister 25. *Like last eight 26. Sweet coffee drink 27. A Beatle DOWN 1. Its fleece was white 29. Daddy 31. Over your head? as snow? 2. Sixth month of civil 32. To give an income or property year 3. Downward and upward 33. Scrub or purge dogs are part of this 34. Towel cloth 36. Ungulate's foot 4. _____ Maria 38. Victorian or ElizaRemarque bethan ones, e.g. 5. Suppose 6. *Georgetown's con- 42. *Kentucky's Rupp _____ ference, "The Big ___" 65. "___ to Joy" by Friedrich Schiller 67. Become one 68. On the move 69. Julie Andrews in "The Sound of Music" 70. Holy See's administering body 71. *Ranking 72. Apollo to ancient Greeks 73. Levels

45. *______ beater 49. "Big Island" flower necklace 51. Simplify 54. Movie "_____ Came Polly" 56. Boredom 57. Speaker type 58. Baptism, e.g. 59. Important battery component 60. "Cobbler, cobbler, ____ my shoe" 61. Republic of Ireland 62. Done in a pot 63. Ligurian one and Adriatic one 64. Military hospitals 66. Simon & Garfunkel, e.g. © Statepoint Media

Answers on

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2012 / 27

Announcements

I-You Venture

he I-You Venture needs volunteers of all ages with various talents and interests to share some time with our care facility neighbors living in residential care homes, assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. For more information, call (831) 459-8917 or ext. 205

Survivors Healing Center

urvivors healing center is a place where people victimized by sexual abuse can heal. The goal of this center is to prevent the sexual abuse of children and youth in our community. SHC is forming new ongoing twelve-week, closed intensive therapy groups for men and women who are survivors of sexual abuse. Call (831)423-7601 to register

Al-Anon

re you bothered by someone else’s drinking? Al-Anon is a 12-Step program for family and friends of alcoholics. There are meetings every day of the week and there are no dues or fees. For a meeting near you call 831-462-1818 or visit www.ncwsa.org/d23. Everyone is welcome.

Ongoing Events Ongoing thru April 1

Rain Forest Excursions at Roaring Camp

Everyday at 12:30 pm earn about California's own Rain forests (of coastal redwoods.) As guests ride at branch level through a virgin rain forest by steam train, fascinating information about the California coastal redwoods and forest ecosystem is revealed. Tickets are $24 for adults, $ 17 for children. Parking is $8. For more information, call (831) 335-4484

First Mondays of the Month

Lecture Series on "Great Decisions"

7:00pm-8:30 pm, Episcopal Church of St. John, 125 Canterbury Dr. in Aptos ectures will be lead by Dr. Laina FarhatHolzman, sponsored by Santa Cruz Beach, American Association of University Women. For more information, call (831) 688-0541

Second and Fourth Mondays First and Third Wednesdays

Alzheimers Support Groups

Monday: 2:00 - 3:30pm Wednesday: 5:30 – 7:00pm Conference Room at Elena Baskin/Live Oak Senior Center, 1777-A Capitola Rd, Santa Cruz acilitated by Jill Ginghofer, this group is for caregivers and family members of people with Alzheimers.

Mondays thru April 30

Food for Life: The Power of Food for Disease Prevention and Survival

through nutrition. Topics include how foods fight diabetes, beneficial low-fat, high-fiber foods, using the glycemic index, disease-fighting compounds, and healthy weight control. For more information and registration, visit www.foodforlifeclasses.org or call (831) 3253811 or email simplynutritious@gmail.com

Tuesdays

Women Care Drop in Cancer Support

rop in Support Group is a gathering for women with all types of cancer. We offer support for women through all stages from diagnoses through treatment. For more information or to register call (831) 457-2273

Tuesdays thru Fridays, Sundays

Svaroopa® Yoga Instruction at Aptos Yoga

Aptos Yoga, 783 Rio Del Mar Blvd. Ste.23B, Aptos. 831-688-1019 varoopa® Yoga is very different from what most of us think of as yoga. With the support of blankets, beginning students relax into easy poses designed to release the deepest tensions in the body along the spine. This release deeply relaxes the body, quiets the mind, reduces pain, accelerates injury recovery, and promotes better overall health. Classes five days each week. First Class free. For more information, call 688-1019 www.aptosyoga.org

First Tuesdays and Third Wednesdays each month

Orientations to Become Advocates for Children

North County, 5:30-7p.m., first Tuesday of month (for location details contact Danielle at 761-2956 X102) South County, 5:30-7 p.m., third Wednesday of the month at the CASA Office, 294 Green Valley Rd. Suite 326, Watsonville. ASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Santa Cruz County needs your help. Volunteer 3-5 hours per week to provide support, guidance, and a powerful voice in court for children who have been removed from their homes because of abuse or neglect. Everyone welcome, men and bilingual folks especially encouraged. To RSVP call 761-2956 Ext. 102, or email Danielle@casaofsantacruz.org

Second Tuesdays Each Month

Free Job Seek Workshop!

6:00pm-7:00pm, Gateway Bible Church, 5000 Granite Creek Rd. Scotts Valley or more information, visit http://hirewire.org

Wednesdays

Cooking Course on Cancer Prevention and Survival

thru February 15, 6:00pm-8:00pm, New Leaf Community Markets, 1101 Fair Ave. Santa Cruz hysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine is sponsoring a 4-week course entitled “Food for Life: The Power of Food for Cancer Prevention and Survival.” Learn how proper diet can help prevent and survive cancer. Topics: how foods fight cancer; beneficial low-fat, high-fiber foods; dairy and meat alternatives; cancer-fighting compounds; and healthy weight control. $95 To register, visit www.cancerproject.org/ classes, call 831-325-381l, or email

6:00pm-8:00pm, Westside New Leaf Community Market, Santa Cruz he Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine is sponsoring an eight-week course entitled, “Food for Life: The Power of Food for Disease Prevention and Survival.” Gain the knowledge that will enable you or family members to prevent disease or better manage it 28 / March 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

simplynutritious@gmail.com

Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay ADHD Support Group Meetings

6:30pm-8:00pm at Mar Vista Elementary School on Soquel Dr. or more information, contact Jude Brenis at jbrenis@sbcglobal.net or call (831) 684-0590

Overeaters Anonymous

6:30-7:30pm at Teach by the Beach #50 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos For more information, call (831) 429-7906

First Wednesday of the Month

Child Welfare Review

6:00pm- 9:00pm 1400 Emeline Avenue room 206, Santa Cruz. he orientation is designed to review the child welfare system and to give you a chance to have your question answered by child welfare staff. To register to one of the meeting and for directions, please call 454-4024.

Second and Fourth Thursdays of the month

Cabrillo Host Lions

7:30pm at the Cabrillo Community Center, Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Rd. ublic is invited to all programs. Contact President Paul Henry 831-688-31 or Past President Barbara Chamberlain at 831-6883356. For meeting/dinner reservations or information or visit www.cabrillohostlions.org.

Fridays

Clutterers Anonymous

5:30-6:45 Sutter Maternity & Surgical Center, 2900 Chanticleer Ave, Soquel Dr. Santa Cruz. ired of Clutter? Stuff piling up? Support is available. CLA meeting every Friday. For more info call 426-1868 FREE

Saturdays

Profit will go to fund Temple School Scholarships. For more information, contact Susan McKay at susanbm@sbcglobal.net

Tuesday March 20 Parenting Workshop: Dealing with Disobedience

5:30pm-8:00pm, Mountain Community Resources, Highway 9 Future workshops: April 24, May 15 and June 5 mprove your parenting skills! These workshops will include free food, free childcare, and one on one parenting support. Topics will include supporting your partner, dealing with fighting and aggression, being bullied, and the power of self esteem. Events are free! To learn more, call (831) 3356600

Come As You Are Zen

Wednesday March 21

(Next: March 28 • Thru April 15)

Freedom Forum Presents: Stealing America Vote by Vote

Fourth Wednesday each Month

Every Other Wednesday

Free Tax Assistance

9:30am-11:30 am, Mountain Community Resources, Highway 9 ree tax assistance will be provided by the Santa Cruz Community Credit Union on a walk in basis. To learn more, call (831) 335-6600

Ongoing Constitution Classes

7:00 pm Quaker Meeting House, 225 Rooney St. Santa Cruz iew video lessons of an in-depth teaching about our Constitution, one of the most respected and copied documents in our nations history. For more information, visit www.meetup.com/santacruz-freedom-forum or email scfreedomforum@gmail.com

Thursdays

Capitola-Aptos Rotary Club Meeting

12-1:30 p.m. at Seascape Golf Course. ontact Doug at 831- 724-9192 or e-mail dnakashima@razzolink.com for more information.

Overeaters Anonymous

1:00-2:00pm, Louden Nelson Community Center, Rm. 5 301 Center St. Santa Cruz For more information, call (831) 429-7906

City Council Member Stephanie Harlan to hold Office Hours in Capitola Mall

1:00pm-4:00pm Capitola Mall No meeting on Thanksgiving ouncil Member Harlan will meet with residents and persons interested in discussing City issues at Capitola Mall. She looks forward to meeting with her constituents and encourages Capitola residents to stop by and meet with her. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (831) 475-7184

Second Thursdays of the Month

Veterans of Foreign Wars

6:30 pm, 2259 7th Ave. Santa Cruz Commander: Ronals Petty. For more information, call (831) 475-9804

9-10:30 am, Ocean Gate Zendo, 920 41st Ave. Suite B, Santa Cruz (next to Family Cycling Center) ome as you are Zen focuses on Buddhist practices that enhance our daily lives. This will be an informal talk with time for discussion. Free — donation accepted. Visit oceangatezen.org for more info.

Aptos Certified Farmers Market

8:00 -12:00pm at Cabrillo College, Aptos. he Aptos Market, with over 80 vendors, is open year round, with the best selections of fresh fruits and vegetables, plants, seedlings, flowers, local honey, fresh eggs, fresh fish, artisan baked goods and gourmet foods. In addition, family activities, music, cooking demos by professional chefs, gardening workshops, seasonal fairs and events are a part of the market.

Scotts Valley Farmer’s Market

9a.m.-1p.m. SV Community Center, 360 Kings Village Drive www.santacruzfarmersmarket.org

Dated Events

7:00pm, Quaker Friends Meeting House, 225 Rooney St. Santa Cruz reedom forum presents this documentary film by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Dorothy Fadiman, which offers behind-thescenes perspective from key races. Learn about startling occurances such as uncounted ballots, vote switching, and many other examples that warrent an investigation. Special Guest Gail Pellerin will help answer questions about our local system and our responsibilities as voters.

Saturday March 24 Aptos Yoga Anniversary Celebration

9:00am, Aptos Yoga, 783 Rio Del Mar Blvd. Ste 23B, Aptos ptos Yoga invites the community to help celebrate its 2nd anniversary with a day of FREE events including Svaroopa® yoga classes, Ayurvedic Cooking Talk & Tasting, presentation: "How to Lead a Balanced Life," puppet show and puppet making, and performance by Blues and Jazz singer/songwriter, Adrea Castiano. See website for details: www.aptosyoga.org or call 688-1019.

Saturday March 17

Tuesday March 27

Getting the Most from your iPad

Sons in Retirement Luncheon Meeting

10am - 1pm at Cruzio at 877 Cedar Street, Santa Cruz his class is for the person who understands basic iPad operations. It covers all the native applications of the iPad, including email, editing, keyboard shortcuts, internet surfing, bookmarks, address book, calendar, maps iCloud syncing and backup. This class will teach you some neat tips and tricks to assist you in the everyday use of your iPad. For more information, contact Doreen at (831) 588-9651 or email doreen13@mac.com to register. Class is $55 per person.

Sunday March 18 Green it up Sale!

presented by the Temple Beth El Sisterhood 9:00am-2:00pm Temple Beth El Social Hall, 3055 Porter Gulch Rd. Aptos ently used fashion accessories, and small potted plants will be sold. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to bring a friend!

11:30 am, Severinos Bar and Grill, 7500 Old Dominion Ct. Aptos peaker will be Bill Fisher, CEO of Alzheimers Association Northern California and Nevada.Subject "Update on Alzheimers Disease and the Movement to Defeat it". Call 688-0977 for information.

Saturday March 31 The Aptos Academy's Annual Auction and School Gala

5:00pm-9:00pm, Chaminade Resort and Spa he Aptos Academy, a non-profit community school, invites the public to this year’s gala entitled: “Learners of Today, Leaders of Tomorrow.” The fun-filled event features wine tasting, no-host cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and silent and live auctions, all in an elegant setting at the Chaminade Resort and Spa in Santa Cruz. All funds generated will support the school’s Tuition Assistance and Enriched Arts Programs. For ticket information, call (831) 688-1080 or visit www.aptosacademy.org n

Venus continues to be helpful in terms of your social life and building relationships, and then you benefit from useful information regarding your finances. You find that being frugal is actually the way to go and this allows you to be inventive and creative. Meanwhile, ideas are brewing that are artistic but you are not yet ready to put them into practice until after the 20th, when the Sun moves into your sign. Research is important as you are spoiled for choice and need to be fairly discerning. More than the usually activity occurs around meetings and connections with others of influence.

Aries (March 21-April 20)

Announcements

Informational Meeting and Signups for the 2012 Youth Shakespeare Programs

he Youth Shakespeare Program is open to youth ages 5-18. Plays include Romeo and Juliet, Mother Goose meets Dr. Seuss, and Other Strange Encounters. Meetings will take place at St. Phillips Episcopal Church, March 7 & 13, 5:00pm-6:00pm & 7:00pm-8:00pn.

Ageless Art Project

Saratoga Ave, San Jose orty-seven years of performing in the Bay Area, over 250 popular tunes. Come see our band for Free in Sunnyvale Every Wednesday. No cover. Contact Lee McLaughlin, Booking Agent, at 408-993-BAND (2263) for information about booking the band for Non-profit events (donations are tax deductible). www.PeninsulaBanjoBand.org

Fridays

rtists/Crafts people volunteers Share your talent and make creative expression possible by leading an art group of care facility residents. Become an Ageless Art Project Volunteer. For information call 459-8917 ext. 208

SPECTRA Arts Learning

First Fridays of each month

he Cultural Council of Santa Cruz County is seeking stories and anecdotes from people with current or past experience with SPECTRA Arts Learning. These stories will serve as examples of successes students have found through the Council’s SPECTRA program over the years, and may be used to promote the Council’s Arts Learning Resource Directory. If you are an artist, parent, teacher or student with a story to share about your experience with SPECTRA, you are invited to send a brief narrative to Sonia Deetz at the Cultural Council: sonia@ccscc.org.

Ongoing Events

Mondays

Live Team Trivia

6:00pm Brunos BBQ 230 G Mt Hermon RD. Scotts Valley eams for trivia can be as few as one person or as large as 20! Great prizes for 1st and 2end place teams. No cost to play.

Mondays and Wednesdays

Salsa Rueda Class

7:00pm at Louden Nelson Center, 301 Center St., Santa Cruz. earn Salsa Rueda. For more information visit www.salsaruedasantacruz.com or call 831-457-7432

Tuesdays

BINGO

6:30 p.m. Santa Cruz Elks Lodge, 150 Jewell St. osted by Soquel Sports Foundation. BuyIn $25. Also, we have a special BINGO, celebrating our 2nd anniversary, on Sept. 28 at 6:30. Buy-in only $15. www.soquelsports.com

Ballroom Dancing

7:30- 11:00pm at Mid-County Senior Center, 829 Bay Ave, Capitola. ive music by The Rainbows. Refreshments, large floor, friendly atmosphere, free parking. All for a donation of $8 per person.

First Friday Art Tour

he First Friday Art Tour is a Santa Cruz Institute of Contemporary Arts event, managed in conjunction with the participating art venues. The event takes place year-round and illuminates some of the most talented local artists from local galleries. To find out where to participate in a First Friday art tour, visit firstfridaysantacruz.com (Most galleries are open 12-9 pm for First Friday viewings.)

Every other Friday

Shakespeare Club of Santa Cruz

10:30-12:30 pm, First Congregational Church, 900 High St. Santa Cruz, Next: March 16 hakespeare's club is seeking new members to join in the study of his plays. For more information, visit www.fridayshakespeare.org

Fourth Friday of each month

Musical Me Inc. Family Jam Night

6:30-8:30p.m. 239 High St., Santa Cruz. ring your favorite music to dance to and any instruments you'd like to share or perform with. Sliding Scale donation per family of $10-$25 (all proceeds going to our scholarship fund.) For more information call 831-438-3514.

Fourth Saturdays of each month

Writers and Poets Open Mike

2:00pm-4:00pm, Porter Memorial Library, 3050 Porter St. Soquel no meeting Jan., July, Aug. or Dec.) riters and Poets are invited to a new monthly open mike reading series. Come and read your fiction, essays, or poetry. For more information, call Jean at (831) 475-4221

Dated Events

Tuesdays and Weekends

Live Music on the Esplanade

Paradise Beach Grille 215 Esplanade, Capitola. ive music weekends and acoustic guitar Tuesdays. For schedule and more information: (831) 476-4900 Or visit paradisebeachgrille.com

Wednesdays

Peninsula Banjo Band

7:00 - 8:30 p.m., Harry’s Hofbrau, 390

Saturday March 17 Bradley Elementary's Saint Patrick's Day Festival on the Green Carnival & Auction

11:00am-3:00pm, Corralitos Community Center, 33 Browns Valley Rd. his event will include food, carnival games, live entertainment, bounce houses, face painting, and a hunt for Leprachan's GOLD! Proceeds go to Bradley's H&S club, non profit. $45 for Family Pack, $14 for child, and adults $6.

12:00pm-4:00pm, Garden Lane Soaps, 362 Pioneer d. Corralitos nique, beautiful and affordable clothing, rugs, pillows, bedspreads and jewelry and purses from Turkey as well as Venetian jewelry. Perfect gift items. We travel to Turkey and Venice to hand select each item for exquisite style, design and quality. To learn more, call (831) 818-2598

runway to the hippest music by Music Now DJ. Models will be wearing the latest spring fashion from Aptos Shoes and Apparel, Chic Boutique, Cinnamon Bay, Fleet Feet Sports, Patrick James, and Hopscotch. This is a day you won’t want to miss! Presented by the Aptos Chamber of Commerce, to benefit the Katz Cancer Resource Center at Dominican Hospital. If you are interested in being a vendor, call (831) 688-1467

An Evening with Marilyn: An Intimate Look at the Legend

Primavera 2012 Trips back to the 60s

Bluestone Imports Trunk Show and Sale

6:00pm, Chaminade Resort and Spa, Santa Cruz ome see a private collection of Marilyn's possessions, (clothing, accessories, documents, etc.) at a special gala dinner. This event-cocktails, dinner, silent auction, entertainment-is a fundraiser for the United Way of Santa Cruz County. Come learn about Marilyn's fascinating life! $125.00 per ticket.

Casino Night: Feeling Lucky?

6:30-10:30pm, Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Harvest Building elebrate St. Patricks Day with a night full of fun and mischief. Games will include Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, and Poker. Enjoy an all night buffet, drink, $50 in chips, and live music. Must be 21 years or older to attend. $40 per ticket. Tickets available at www.freedomrotaryclub.org, Farmers Insurance/Rodney Brooks, Pajaro Valley Printing, M&M party Rentals, Sunrise Reality, and Integrity Lending. All proceeds go to benefit local charities!

Saturday March 17 Sunday March 18 Opera Mania: Chamber Music Inspired by Opera

8:00 pm Saturday, 3:00pm Sunday, Christ Lutheran Church, 10707 Soquel Dr. Aptos rtistic director/pianist Ivan Rosenblum, flutists Kathleen Purcell and Lars Johannessen, and cellist Judy Roberts. Beloved opera melodies in rarelyheard instrumental arrangements. Beethoven’s variations on a theme from Mozart’s The Magic Flute; thrilling flute pyrotechnics based on themes from Rigoletto and La Sonnambula; John Harbison’s Gatsby Etudes for Solo Piano from his own opera, The Great Gatsby; and other works. Tickets are available at the door 1/2 hour before performance. $25 general, $20 seniors, $10 youth, and free for ages 12 and under. Visit Santacruztickets.com for tickets, or call (831) 420-5260. For more information, call (831) 425-3149 or visit www.scchamberplayers.org

Sunday March 18

Aptos in Style: A Fashion Soiree

11:00-1:30pm, Seascape Beach Resort, Aptos pring Forward Into Fashion takes place at Seascape Beach Resort with host, Cristina King while watching a fashion show with models walking the

4:00pm-9:00pm, Chaminade Resort and Spa, 1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz himmy into your bell-bottems and fringed vests to help raise money for performing, literary and visual arts as well as the arts programs of the Cultural Council. Special guests "White Album Ensemble" will rock the music of the Beatles to get everyone moving on the dance floor. Silent and live auctions will feature the work of local artists, artisans, and minivacations. Purchase tickets at www.ccscc.org, or call (831) 475-9600

Thursday March 22 1776: The Drama; A staged Reading

7:00pm, Scotts Valley Community Center, 360 Kings Village Rd. Scotts Valley cotts Valley Middle School 8th Grade will perform. Admission is free to the public. For more information, visit www.svpaa.org

Friday March 23 thru Sunday March 25 Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cats!

Friday: 7:00pm; Saturday: 3:30pm & 7:00pm; Sunday: 3:30pm, Live Oak Grange, 1900 17th Ave, SC CPA provides quality entertainment and lasting 'memories' for the entire family. Come see 21 6-16 year olds bring to life your favorite Cats characters, including Grizabella, Mr. Mistofelees, Macavity, and the Rum Tum Tugger. The show takes place in a junk-yard on the night of the Jellicle Ball! Admission: $12 general, $10 children, students, and seniors. Tickets available at the door or in advance at Jones & Bones in Capitola or Elite Martial Arts in Scotts Valley.

Sunday March 25 Watsonville Community Band 64th Spring Concert Series!

3:00pm, Civic Auditorium, Santa Cruz o charge for admission! Bring the family!

Sunday April 1

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

This month brings a retro period from the 12th for your ruler, Mercury. You go over old ground and find it hard to get ahead initially, but this brings a chance to catch up and sort out your stuff, so have a good clear out! In the first 10 days or so, you can make great strides forward as you take a quantum leap that has been waiting to happen for some time. Make use of old contacts and get in touch with people who have been off your agenda for a while. You are considering where you are headed professionally and discover some valuable information about yourself which helps you to make a good choice.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

Travel is highlighted for you this month, Cancer, and this includes learning and exploring your options when it comes to discovering new skills. A change of routine is welcome, since you are ready for the next step on your life journey. Letting go of the past is so much easier when you know where you are going to. After the 21st, the Sun moves into Aries and this illuminates your professional life. A career change is possible, or recognition and a promotion in your existing position. A love matter is settled once and for all.

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

At the start of the month, you could be feeling a little stuck and frustrated as you are trying to resolve an issue but seem to be coming up against brick walls. The passage of time helps here and a little bit of patience sees all the pieces finally fall into place, so trust that the right kind of change is happening naturally. The Full Moon on the 8th brings matters to a head, particularly around your finances. Creativity and thrift go hand in hand and you get great satisfaction from being inventive. After the 20th, life is back on track and you have a renewed sense of optimism.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 23)

Throughout March, Mars is in your sign, but in a retrograde motion as is your ruler Mercury from the 11th. This can lead to frustration and delays, but Venus is in your fellow earth sign of Taurus. Satisfaction and fulfillment lie in your pursuit of happiness through travel, the media, and publishing. A wider world is calling you and perhaps being too limited in your thinking keeps you far too firmly in your place. So cast off the shackles, do something unexpected and let your imagination soar. Your sense of fun returns once more.

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sep. 22)

You work hard at finding solutions and mutually beneficial arrangements but you may run out of options after the first week, when you are in a less compromising mood. Now you become a little secretive and see the value of not spilling the beans until you have done a little exploration your self. Perhaps you are concerned about what others think but really this should not put you off! The sun moves into Aries on the 20th and you are juggling more than usual, you are enormously resourceful in how you delegate and get others involved with sharing the load. This frees you up to pursue what interests you long term.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 23)

Ideas and sudden change features in the first week. While you are not too keen on having change thrust upon you, nevertheless, this has a way of shifting you out of your comfort zone and rethinking what you take for granted. The gift of this is that you could find yourself considering options that seemed just out of reach. Discuss possibilities and visions with a trusted loved one, particularly around the Full Moon on the 8th. Jupiter in your chart area of relationships continues to add interest and intrigue in the this area of your life.

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Life can get over complicated and you are determined to keep your eye on the ball and recognize what matters to you. Even so, the influence of others can at times be a little perplexing and illogical. You value freedom and have the tolerance to live and let live, but it seems that either the lack of ground rules, or too many rules that mean nothing are impinging on your domestic life. It all seems very close to home but you have the ability to turn this around into something valuable and sensible for all. After the 20th, you focus on the good things in life, and what is most fun and a lot less like hard work.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

You are reaping the benefits of decisions made some time ago, and while you have a certain sense of self satisfaction, you are not yet ready to rest on your laurels. You are aware that change can happen quickly and that it is important to be adaptable. It is how you respond to change that matters more than what the changes are. In fact, with your new approach you can see that having certain things in place you are ready for anything. The Full Moon in Virgo is the perfect time for envisioning a great future for you and a loved one.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20)

While you may have made considerable ground regarding the juggling of your financial situation, you also get the chance to review what works and what doesn't and you make brave steps to let go what isn't in your best interests. This makes everything far more streamlined, and less confusing. You find that new ideas and perspectives are worthy of exploration but you have a more realistic expectation, and unlikely to jump towards something that seems great on the surface. After the 20th much dead wood has been cleared and you can begin afresh, with your valuable experience and knowledge.

Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb. 18)

You feel at a crossroads at the start of the month, with outside influences pulling against what feels okay for you, so you are pretty stubborn and resistant to change, particularly if it has been proposed by your partner. Still, once you sort out your differences the pressure eases and you can enjoy being in charge again, or making decisions that you know are right. The Sun is in your sign until the 20th which is a time energy and power for you. Set goals that are achievable. You are soon going to be working with your talents to find work that truly makes you happy. ••• Find Out More www.AnnabelBurton.tv

Pisces (Feb. 19-Mar. 20)

The Best of the Central Coast Annual Santa Cruz Watercolor Society Show Awards by Nina Simon

You are blessed with having your ruling planet, Venus, in your sign from the 5th, where she will join the hugely optimistic Jupiter. These two can create lucky circumstances for you and life eases along at a gentle and pleasing pace. This is great for your financial dealings and also your love life. If you are single, there are some delightful flirtations in store and a chance to get your existing relationship on track, if you are attached. After the 21st, you are keen to escape the daily routine so it's a great time for an early getaway. This month's Full Moon on the 8th centres on hobbies and pastimes.

2:00pm-4:00pm, Santa Cruz Art League Gallery 526 Broadway SC or more information, contact Aimee at (831) 425-5954 or Judith at (831) 475-7733 n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2012 / 29

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call our offices 831.688.7549 30 / March 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Know your legal rights in personal injury cases

ou’re a passenger in a friend’s car when it’s struck by a truck running a red light. Your child is bitten by the neighbor’s dog and requires a trip to the emergency room. You’re shopping in a store and trip on a step that is hard to see. You eat a hamburger at a local restaurant and later become seriously ill, the result of an E. coli bacterial infection. Americans of all walks of life experience personal injuries every day - many of them through no fault of their own. They just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. While most can recover from these injuries, the road to recovery is long for others. Some may never again be able to lead normal, healthy lives. What should you do if you’ve been involved in an accident that left you with injuries? According to FindLaw.com, the nation’s leading source of free online legal information, people who have been injured should act quickly to ensure that their rights are protected and they receive fair compensation to pay for medical treatment and lost wages. Here are some tips from FindLaw.com to keep in mind if you’re involved in an accident: Seek medical help immediately. It’s important to seek medical help as soon as possible to recover from your injuries - and to establish they were caused by the accident and not by a previous incident. Medical bills and receipts will be crucial in demonstrating the extent and nature of your injuries. Call the police. Sometimes it’s critical to call legal authorities into a situation to provide immediate help, but also to establish a legal record of an accident or incident. For example, the neighbor’s dog gets off its leash and attacks your child, resulting in a trip to the emergency room where your child receives stitches. Filing a police report may be the right thing to do to protect your rights and prevent the dog from attacking another child in the future. File an accident report. If you’re involved in a workplace accident “Tax Prep” from pg 19

Paid products typically don’t require payment until you print or efile, and many brands allow you to try the products without creating an

either you were injured or were a witness to an accident - file a report with the person responsible for a safe working environment. Following this procedure will be critical to creating a safer work environment, and to recovering compensation for injuries and lost wages. Document the accident. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident, it’s vital that you document what happened. The longer you wait, the greater the possibility that memories fade and physical evidence disappears. This involves writing down what you remember about the accident, identifying all possible witnesses and obtaining detailed observations from them about what happened, and preserving evidence that may be essential to proving your claim (including photos and video). The more information you have to lend credibility to your claims, the greater the chance you will be believed and recover compensation for the damages you suffered. Find the instructions. Every year, thousands of Americans suffer personal injuries when using a product. If it happens to you, be sure to keep the item exactly as it was when the injury took place. You also should store any instructions, labels, warnings or packaging that came with the product in a safe place. Contact a personal injury attorney. An experienced personal injury

attorney can help determine if your case is strong enough to file a claim. In addition, a personal injury attorney can help evaluate any offers you may receive from the insurance company representing the person or company that may have injured you. To find a personal injury attorney in your area, consider using the attorney locator at FindLaw.com. Keep track of the time. Every state has laws regarding time limits under which you can file a personal injury lawsuit. This is called the “statute of limitations.” In some states, you may have only a year to file a lawsuit involving an auto accident. If you miss the deadline, your claims may be dismissed. That’s why it’s important to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after an accident. Recognize that you may be at fault. There’s always a chance that you may be partially at fault in an accident. For example, if you were hit by a car while bicycling, you may be at fault if you did not follow the road regulations for cyclists in your state at the time of the accident. This could affect any compensation you may receive for your injuries. If it’s determined you were 50 percent at fault, for instance, your compensation may be reduced by that amount. To learn more about your legal rights if you’ve been personally injured, visit FindLaw.com. n (ARA Content)

account. Downloaded software often comes with a money-back, no-questions-asked guarantee. If you have time to spare, you could enter your data in two products and compare results. Digital and downloadable prod-

ucts have made doing your own taxes easy, fast and affordable. Visit www.irs.gov for the latest tax information and learn more about TaxACT at www.taxact.com. n ARA Content

SPCA Featured Pet

After All, Tomorrow is Another Day… To Adopt!

crossword on

hett and Scarlett are two poodles very much in love but were sadly not loved enough by their former owner. These two beautiful sparkling white sweethearts were bred and produced what could only be absolutely adorable little puppies. Unfortunately, the owners decided to keep the cute puppies and abandon the parents at a shelter. Rhett, five-years old, and Scarlett, two-years-old, are adjusting well but still cling to one another in this new and unknown environment. They are very quiet, calm and kind and never cause any sort of trouble with visitors, staff or the other animals. During the day, they lay in the sun together in the yards and groom each other. Volunteers take them out on walks and it seems to boost their spirits a bit. At night, they eat out the same bowl and curl up in the same bed. We would love to see these two lovebirds go to the same home but we will consider separating them if the right situations come along. If you are looking for one or TWO easy keeping dogs that will provide wonderful companionship and love, please come and meet Rhett and Scarlett. You’ll be gone with them and the wind! Poodles are a hypoallergenic breed and do not shed. However, their grooming needs are more extensive than other breeds and they need daily brushing and periodic professional grooming. This breed is extremely smart and easy to train. They are very loving, affectionate and make wonderful family companions. Our adoption package for dogs and cats includes spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchipping, an ID tag, collar, a free health exam with a licensed Veterinarian, one month’s free health insurance, discounted crate purchase and other animal care materials. If you would like to help animals like Rhett, Scarlett and their orphaned friends, please consider donating to the Santa Cruz SPCA. The Santa Cruz SPCA is a 501c3 charitable organization and receives no government funding, relying solely on public donations to run its many programs that benefit the animals and people of our community. For more information call the Santa Cruz SPCA at 465-5000, or visit www.santacruzspca.org. The SPCA is located at 2685 Chanticleer Avenue in Santa Cruz, CA 95065 and is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 p.m. n

FeaturedColumnist

Angry Dogs!

hances are you or someone you love has been bitten by an aggressive dog in your lifetime. Over 5 million people are bitten by dogs every year in this country and unfortunately, most of these victims are children. Dog bites leave people in pain, shock, frightened, and confused. Approximately 20 dog attacks result in fatality each year. Any size or breed dog can become aggressive and injure a person as demonstrated by the tragic instance of a Pomeranian that killed a 6-week-old baby. Fortunately, understanding canine aggres- will usually show a dog with one or both sion and educating our children can help arms around a toddler or newborn baby. us assess the danger a dog poses and pre- This clear demonstration of dominant vent injury in many circumstances. behavior, which should trigger red flags of Aggression is a broad category of nat- potential aggression, is often viewed with ural behaviors in dogs. It includes body heartwarming feelings. Now that you can language, vocalizations, and sometimes spot an angry dog, and you’ve taught your physical attack. Most often children to do the same, dogs will display some signs how should you react? Dogs behaving of aggression before actually Dogs showing signs of aggressively biting. Being able to recogaggression should not be nize the sometimes-subtle stared at, yelled at, or should be body language of an aggresapproached. It is best to reported to the sive dog and sharing this walk away calmly and quiCounty Animal knowledge with children is etly with your body sidetherefore important to avoid ways to the dog while keepControl Officer injury. ing head and arms lowered at 831-454-7227 Warning signs that a to show that you are not a dog may be aggressive threat. Never run from a include; direct eye contact, hair standing threatening dog. Your flight may trigger on end, an elevated head and tail, a rigid the prey drive of the dog and increase the stance, lips retracted, growling, and hug- chance of attack. ging or mounting behavior. Some of these If an unrestrained aggressive dog signs are obvious. However, many times approaches you, stand still. Do not smile. they are misinterpreted as play or affec- Displaying your teeth may be misintertion. You have probably seen compilations preted as aggression by the dog. Keep your of the cutest pet photos that are often circu- hands at your sides, and stay quiet and lated on the Internet. One of the photos calm. If you have anything that can act as a shield, (i.e. backpack, umbrella, jacket, stick, bicycle, etc) try to keep this between you and the dog. Always look away from the dog. If you are on the ground, curl up into a ball, like a rock. Keep your knees to your chest and your hands clenched into fists over your ears with your elbows pointing forward to protect your face and throat while remaining quiet. The best way to teach children these concepts is through role-playing since it is almost impossible to think about how to behave in a fearful situation. Make it a game with taking turns being the aggressive dog and the victim. A little education, planning and practice may prevent serious injury or tragedy. n ••• Capitola Veterinary Hospital, 1220 H, 41st Avenue, Capitola CA 95010, Phone # 476-7387. To Contact River May, DVM Email Capvet1@gmail.com Photo Courtesy of Tine Ravnikar • www.tineravnikar.com www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2012 / 31

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