Capitola / Soquel Times February 2012 by Times Publishing Group, Inc.

February 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 17 No. 2

Serving Central Santa Cruz County

2012 Supervisor Races

Candidates Friend, Rivas, Locatelli and Deitch.

By Noel Smith t’s not often that two open seats appear on the Santa Cruz County board of Supervisors. Three districts are up for election in 2012 with incumbents Ellen Pirie of District 2 and Mark Stone of District 5 choosing not to run for reelection. Pirie has been on the board since she was first elected in the year 2000 while Stone was appointed to the board in 2003 and then first elected in 2004. District 1 incumbent Supervisor John Leopold is running for his second term. Elections for open seats are always interesting because they get the most candidates fighting it out to get on the Board.

I Monterey Park Skatepark designed by Dreamland Skateparks LLC.

Capitola Local News to Start 2012 onterey Park will be the location of the City’s new skate park as plans were considered, amended, and sent back for redesign before progressing to the next level. As originally envisioned, last November, the skatepark would have occupied

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Court Ruling Affirms Fair Rodeos here to stay

COE Expanding Education First

pre-teens. The amendment was passed 3-2 with aye votes by councilmembers Nicol, Michael Termini and Dennis Norton and with Sam Storey and Stephanie Harlan opposing. The downscaled project was sent back for re-design. Last September the City Council held a public hearing on the issue of identifying a site to

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Skate Park Plans Sent Back

9,000 square feet along the between New Brighton Middle School and the southwestern boundary of Monterey Park. The design would have accommodated all skill levels but Councilmember Kirby Nicol amended the proposed concept at the Jan. 26 council meeting changing it to 6,000 square feet with a skill level design more for

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by Noel Smith

build a skate park in the city. The Council then directed staff to investigate the costs of designing a skate park at Monterey Park to be funded with private dollars. The city would work with proponents of the park to begin planning and fundraising efforts.

2011 Tax Relief There’s Still Time

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CommunityNews

Santa Cruz Teen Wins Capitola Soroptimistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Violet Richardson Award

health, economic and envioroptimist International ronmental benefits of re-introof Capitola-by-the-Sea ducing amaranth, a high prohas selected Rose tein grain native to Mexico, Leopold of Santa Cruz the into local diets to help fight 2011 winner of the Violet malnutrition. She also is presRichardson Award given to a ident of the National Honor young woman who provides Society and the Thespian outstanding volunteer service Society at her school and has to the community. She will be appeared in several produchonored at an awards dinner tions. in March, and will receive a Soroptimist, a Latin word $500 cash award. meaning Best for Women, is a A student at Pacific worldwide service organizaCollegiate School, which Rose Leopold tion for women who work to encourages community service, Leopold began working with the Santa improve the lives of women and girls in Clara Chapter of Amigos de las Americas local communities and throughout the and spent two months in rural Oaxaca, world. For more information, visit the SI Mexico in the summers of 2010 and 2011. Capitola website at www.best4women.org contact SI Capitola at While there, she taught nutrition classes to or women and children that featured the info@best4women.org.

2 / February 2012 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Table of Contents

VOL. 17 NO. 2

Cover Capitola Local News to Start 2012 by Noel Smith 2012 Supervisor Races by Noel Smith 2 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 15 16 17 19 21 23 30 31

Community News Santa Cruz Teen Wins Capitola Soroptimist’s Violet Richardson Award CYT Santa Cruz presents ‘Snoopy!!! The Musical’ – Forty Young People Present the Peanuts Gang ‘The Art of the Dance’ – Sun. February 12, Cabrillo College Recital Hall Court Ruling Affirms Fairground’s Historical Use • Santa Cruz County Bank Arts Collaborative Presents ‘REPEAT!’ – January 30 – April 20, 2012 2012’s Valentine’s Day Poetry Contest – 12th Annual Times Publishing Group, Inc Competition By Noel Smith County Office of Education Expanding by Noel Smith The Chamber Orchestra Kremlin featuring pianist Sara Davis Buechner – Presented by the Distinguished Artists Concert & Lecture Series Farm Bureau Director appearing in global ad campaign There’s Still Time for 2011 Tax Relief! $18 million Hwy 1 Widening to Begin in February Coast Watershed Council gets Grant • ‘Outside the Box – Abstractions in Art’ – Scotts Valley ‘Art in the Library’ Showcases Renowned Local Artists New Traffic Laws for the New Year South Indian Dance Company Abhinaya – Saturday, February 25 at 8:00 PM, Cabrillo Crocker Theater Gold Standard Chorus Seats Officers • Veterans of Foreign Wars – Deputy of the Year Award • February Department of Fish and Game Calendar Cabrillo College now has Centralized Ticketing • Cabrillo College has Area V Vacancy for Board of Trustees Treasure Hunting through Attic – Historian Says Pan the Paperwork for Gold IRS Free File: Do Your Federal Taxes for Free • How to Recover From the Malicious Erasure of Files

Letters to the Editor The COE and the School Districts – Same Goals, Different Paths

Sports Wrap Mid-County Scoreboard

Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28 & 29

Monthly Horoscope • Page 29 - Your February Horoscope — Annabel Burton, Astrologer© 14 20 22 24 25 26 27

Featured Columnists Seniors in Action by Judy Chamberlin – Dog’s Best Friend Is Monterey Bay Dog Training Club Money Matters by Brian Cooke and Cole Strickland – How Much Will That Little Bundle of Joy Cost You? Try $163,000 The Book Bag by Robert Francis – Give a child a book for Valentine’s Day… MathBox by Bert Lundy – How to Square any multiple of 5 in your head Work in Progress by Camille Smith – Riddle: What time will it be when the future shows up? The Power of Feng Shui By Denise Vivar – Finding Mr. Right in the Modern Age Out & About by Josie Cowden SPCA Featured Pet • Page 31 – Avril Is So Uncomplicated

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CoverStory

publisher

Patrice Edwards publisher’s assistant

Lindsay Nelson editor

Noel Smith contributing writers

Noel Smith, Michael Mendoza, Annabel Burton, Judy Chamberlin, Brian Cooke, Cole Strickland, Robert Francis, Bert Lundy, Camille Smith, Denise Vivar, Josie Cowden layout

Michael Oppenheimer, Mike Lyon graphic artists

Mike Lyon, Michael Oppenheimer production coordinator

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Don Beaumont, Sadie Wittkins, Meredith Pozzi Feldsted office coordinator

Cathe Race distribution

Bill Pooley, Jana Mears

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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“Elections” from pg 1

The general themes of those running are usually “Time for a Change” or “Stay the Course” or some variation. Also, what do those that say they will be running think will be the important issues for them during the campaign. Times Publishing has asked each of those that have declared they will be a candidate for these offices when the filing period officially opens on February 13 for their three top issues and for a statement in order to inform our readers. Locally elected officials with their ideas and political positions often have great impact on their communities so it is important to become familiar with the candidates in order make an informed decision when voting. This is the first of a series of articles to help you become acquainted with those running for office and to help the candidates communicate with the voters. We asked them to provide a 250-word statement and what were the three top issues. Those potential candidates for 2nd District Supervisor that we asked to participate were: Doug Deitch, Zach Friend, Gina Locatelli, Vic Marani, Kirby Nicol and Antonio Rivas. Those responding were Doug Deitch, Gina Locatelli, Zach Friend, and Antonio Rivas. Those not replying at this time were: Vic Marani and Kirby Nicol. ••• Douglas Deitch 1. Fiscal Responsibility/Community Development/Term Limits: mplement pay/pension/parity cuts necessary to maintain county financial solvency, starting @ 20% from the top w/ 2term Supervisor limit Establish new pay principle, with no one paid more than our county judges or medical doctors (around $180K/year) Emphasize real estate and other taxes and our local economy as revenue sources using highest and best use principle Recognize new financial reality – eco Douglas Deitch and poverty based state and federal funding sources are no longer available Community Development Emphasize local economy in sustainable and green industry based on agricultural, educational, and intellectual property development Protect and enhance affordable and Senior housing opportunities/Consider one county wide unified mobile home rent control protection policy/law 2. Water Supply onsider only one possible Monterey Bay wide regional desal plant cooper-

4 / February 2012 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

ating w/ Monterey County effort … Form one new regional, state created Monterey Bay wide regional water agency/authority merging PVWMA, SqCWD other regional districts Declare Pajaro and Soquel Creek Water District ground water emergency as our laws have required since 1998 3. Transportation Appreciate that widening Highway 1 is sensible transportation. “Sensible transportationalists” never address these four compelling Community needs and realities: • The needs of emergency vehicles for swift and safe access to hospitals and emergency facilities • The needs of our two biggest industries here, agriculture, it’s workers, it’s product, and tourism... i.e. “intercounty transportation”. • The needs of our new green and clean electric personal vehicles to have decent and adequate roads for intra county transportation needs. • Measure J here, which makes the local “growth inducement” anti widening argument a specious and locally inapplicable argument against widening our local roads here. Websites: www.dougforsupervisor.com, www.douglasdeitch.com, www.dougdeitch.com ••• Zach Friend decided to run for a simple reason: We live in an amazing place and I want to do everything I can to keep it that way. These are difficult economic times and we’ve seen how cuts can place vital services at risk. We’ve seen declines to infrastructure, threats to parks funding and significant strains in public safety. But I believe that the challenges we face are not insurmountable. With clarity of Zach Friend vision, and commitment to tackling large problems over scoring easy political points, I know we can create a future for our county that our children will be proud of. Decisions by the Board of Supervisors will determine what our community will become. I believe three key issues we face are: • Keeping our neighborhoods safe • Repairing our roads • Maintaining our parks and farmland These are challenging times, but we should expect no less from our local leaders. I’ve been fortunate to live locally for over 13 years. Like so many, I came to study at Cabrillo and UCSC. I earned my Master’s in Public Policy from Georgetown

University and returned home with my wife, Tina, to start our lives and our family here together. We’ve dedicated our professional lives to public service spending the better part of the last decade in local government and public safety. I want to create an environment where your voice, values and vision are carried to the Board. I want to hear your thoughts. Write me at friendforsupervisor@gmail.com or visit www.friendforsupervisor.com. ••• Antonio R. Rivas s a Former Two Term Mayor & ViceMayor and eight years with the Watsonville City Council. My wife is a Registered Nurse with Watsonville Community Hospital. Married for 42 years and we have raised three wonderful and caring children. I have worked for 35 years in public education, ten years with the Pajaro Valley Unified School District and currently I’m a School Counselor/Teacher with Salinas Union High School District. If elected, I pledged to: • Cut my salary by 15%. • Continue to ensure and protect rental control for our county Mobile Home owners. • Continue to ensure services for our seniors and youth. • Continue to ensure that our communities are safe. • Provide our Sheriff Antonio Rivas Department the proper funding and resources. • Bring new ideas and vision in order to bring better-paying jobs to our communities. • Support our local businesses, agricultural industry and our airport. • Make sure to treat the taxpayers’ money more carefully and be transparent on how we allocate their dollars. Some of my accomplishments: • Member of the Santa Cruz County Transportation Commission, Santa Cruz Cultural Arts Board, Santa Cruz County Criminal Justice Board, Pajaro Valley Student Assistance Board, Pajaro Valley Unified School District Bond Committee and other boards and committees. • President of the Monterey Bay Division of League of Cities. • Ensure funding for the construction of the Watsonville Civic Center. • Coordinated with our Educational Institutions to create after school programs and educational opportunities.

“Elections (cont.)” > 6

“Local News” from pg 1

In November, the City Council received a work plan for the development of the skate park. The City Council approved the proposed work plan for a 9000 square foot skate park, and authorization for the City Manager to approve a contract for preliminary plans. Since the September meeting, staff has been coordinating with key community members on fundraising efforts with the goal to pay for the entire park with donated funds. To date $2,849.45 has been donated, of which $2,500 has gone toward the contract for preliminary plans. The group raising funds to build the skate park recommended Dreamland Skateparks to develop a preliminary design. The City contracted with Dreamland, who prepared preliminary plans and site plans. The estimated cost of the skatepark is $300,000 and is to be paid for entirely through private funding and donations. Pacific Cove Mobile Home Park to Become History y a vote of 3-2, the City Council voted to approve borrowing $2.375 million to relocate residents at Pacific Cove Mobile Home Park. Mayor Michael Termini councilmen Dennis Norton and Kirby Nicol voted yes as Councilman Sam Storey and Councilwoman Stephanie Harlan voted no. The estimated debt payments amount to $220,000 to $230,000 a year. Last year’s flood that inundated Capitola Village began when the waters of Noble Gulch Creek broke through the culvert that ran under Pacific Cove Mobile Home Park. It happened twice in three days during a series of rain storms causing extensive damage to the police and fire stations along Capitola Avenue and then damaged sixty businesses in Capitola Village with a the wall of water that invaded buildings ruining fixtures, floors, walls and stock. Businesses were closed weeks for repairs and many village merchants ended up operating out of a tent by the Capitola Mercantile.

Pacific Cove Mobile Home Park

CoverStory

The status of the 44-space mobile home park had already been under review by the city for several years and the local disaster sealed its fate. The city will be giving the current residents a six-month notice of eviction to July 31, 2012 and will be providing money for relocation for those residents that qualify for such assistance. The city purchased the mobile home park in 1984 as part of a plan to provide more public parking for Capitola Village. The upper level of the park behind City Hall was cleared and opened as a parking lot in 1987. Beginning in 2000, new residents at the Park, as part of their lease, were provided notification that the Park would eventually be closed and they would not be eligible to receive relocation benefits. To find out how many of the 41 units at Pacific Cove are a principal residence and eligible for assistance, city staff reviewed the billing addresses and contacted officials in those counties to inquire if the owner claimed a homeowner’s exemption for another address. Cost to the city for tenant relocations is estimated at approximately $2.4 million. This includes coach acquisition and tenant relocation ($1,600,000), coach removal and other costs ($500,000), relocation assistance services ($117,000), debt issuance ($45,500) and 5 percent for contingencies ($113,000). The Relocation Impact Report (RIR) for Pacific Cove numbers 613 pages for those interested in knowing the details. It is part of the January 12 City Council Agenda Packet found on the City’s Website: www.ci.capitola.ca.us Redevelopment Agencies to Vanish February 1 apitola has one of five Redevelopment Agencies (RDAs) in the County, one for each city (Capitola, Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, Watsonville) and for Santa Cruz County. According to Susan Westman, Interim Community Development Director, for the city, Capitola has $2 million in obligations which are in the form of bonds and which will be paid by the state. Some RDAs have obligations in the form of contracts, which can be terminated by the Successor Agency. The state legislature voted, the Governor signed, and the State Supreme Court drove the stake through the heart of RDAs in California. As of February 1, all RDA’s throughout California will disappear with each to be replaced by a “Successor Agency” each with a 7-member board. Opponents of the RDA system said that one of every eight property tax dollars in the state has been going to redevelopment agencies through “tax-increment financing,” a system that sends any

“Local News (cont.)” > 6

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / February 2012 / 5

“Local News (cont.)” from pg 5

CommunityNews

CYT Santa Cruz presents ‘Snoopy!!! The Musical’

Forty Young People Present the Peanuts Gang n February 17, Santa Cruz County will experience the characters from Charles M. Schultz brought to life. CYT (Christian Youth Theater) Santa Cruz is producing Snoopy, a full-length musical based on the Peanuts comic strip. Forty students ages 8-18 will be telling the story of Charlie Brown, Sally, Linus, Lucy, Peppermint Patty, Woodstock, and Snoopy. This family friendly show will be a treat for all ages! It’s remarkable! Fantastic! Entertaining! Yes, Charles M. Schulz has done it again. “SNOOPY!!! The Musical” is the sequel to “You’re a Good Man Charley Brown” and deserves each of its three exclamation points. Based on the world-

renowned “Peanuts” comic strip, it delights every audience with the quiet knowledge and wit of its characters. Musical numbers include: The Big BowWow, Don’t Be Anything Less (Than Everything You Can Be), Where Did That Little Dog Go, and Daisy Hill. Performances are at Olivet Community Theater, 800 Bethany Drive in Scotts Valley. Tickets are $15 for adults, and $12 for students and seniors. ••• Performance Dates and Times: Friday, Feb. 17th – 7:30pm Saturday, Feb. 18th – 7:30pm “Snoopy!!!” > 18

LetterToT TheEditor The COE and the School Districts Same Goals, Different Paths here is a difference between local school districts and the County Office of Education. The local districts are in charge of the curriculum offered in their programs while the County Office provides countywide programs for special education and alternative education students, serving students who are not served adequately or cost effectively by the districts. The cookie cutter, one-size fits all approach to high school education is designed to force all students to be fouryear college ready. This inevitably pushes some students out the door who aren’t looking for that path. Every day I see students and parents who are confused and discouraged by the new requirements, particularly those students who are more interested in a career that doesn’t require a college degree (80% of careers don’t, a figure that has remained stable since the 1950’s). In our county, the most recent statistics generated by the California Community College system reveal that fewer than 30% of our county students go on to four-year college; what happens to the other 70%? Those students also deserve a high-quality education, one that positions them to compete in the local labor market and earn family-supporting wages that will allow them to stay in our county. Forcing all students to comply with this approach to high school graduation

often leaves them after graduation with no job skills and no college education. Rather than “rob” districts of students as the Sentinel article (1/19/2012Tensions boil…) alleges, some students and families are voluntarily opting out of the comprehensive high school factory model. The County Office of Education Alternative Education program provides a variety of educational options for those students who don’t fit the mold found in these programs. If districts want to keep their students, they need to design programs that are responsive to individual students and stop beating the drum about a four-year college education being the only option Some of the highest paying careers in our county do not require a college degree, but do require career training, which the County Office ROP programs do offer. You only have to speak to our returning college graduates to discover that many of them are unemployed or working in jobs in the tourism industry here, not in their college majors. College is a wonderful option for the students who desire it and can afford it, but the statistics in our county don’t bear out the fantasy that it’s the only option. Carol Polhamus, Career and Technical Education Project Director Natural Bridges High School and Green Careers Center • Ponderosa High School and Green Careers Center

6 / February 2012 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

increase in property taxes after land is redeveloped back to the RDA instead of to county coffers. The Successor Agency is required to make payments and perform other obligations due for Enforceable Obligations of the former RDA, which include: • Bonds • Loans • Payments for employee pension obligations • Judgments or settlements; and • Legally binding and enforceable agreements or contracts. However, the seven-member Oversight Board of a Successor Agency may terminate existing agreements and pay required compensation or remediation. (Goldfarb-Lipman “California Attorneys Supreme Court Decision in California Redevelopment Association v. Matosantos & Related Implementation Actions – Updated Jan. 18. 2012”) The Oversight Board will consist of 7 members appointed by and representing the: • County Board of Supervisors (two members) • The City’s Mayor (one) • County Superintendent of Education (one) • Chancellor of California Community Colleges (one) • Largest special district taxing entity (one) and • A former RDA “Elections (cont.)” from pg 4

I ask your support and to be your representative, advocate for you as your County Supervisor. Email: ARivas4747@aol.com. ••• Gina Locatelli am a believer in hard work, service to the community and good money management. Financial accountability is an officeholders’ responsibility and should be brought to every layer of government. No one is exempt from doing the right thing; you simply do not spend what you do not have. My philosophy is “if there is a problem, there is a solution.” I Gina Locatelli believe in simplistic approaches to complicated issues. I believe in the importance of teamwork and cooperation in business and in the boardroom and that those serving the

employee appointed by Mayor or Board of Supervisors (one). The Oversight Board membership must be completed by May 1, 2012 and will determine whether contracts, agreements or other arrangements between the former RDA and private parties should be terminated or renegotiated. The actions of the Oversight Board will in turn be overseen by the Director of the Department of Finance and subject to disapproval or modification. There is concern that assets and property currently owned by some RDAs may have to be sold off in order to meet their obligations and that the value of redevelopment bonds could be affected. n

This is the first of a series of articles to help you become acquainted with those running for office and to help the candidates communicate with the voters.

people especially should be held accountable for their actions. As Trustee for the Seventh District on the Santa Cruz County Board of Education, and the Agriculture Chairman, of Santa Cruz County Fair, my experience as a student, a parent, a businesswoman, and lifelong Santa Cruz resident will bring useful and practical insight to the County Board of Supervisors. If elected I will work to represent you and to earn your trust as your Supervisor n

CommunityNews

‘The Art of the Dance’

Ensemble Monterey Chamber Orchestra Sun. February 12, Cabrillo College Recital Hall

he Ensemble Monterey Chamber Orchestra presents the second concert in their 20th Anniversary Season, The Art of the Dance, on the evenings of February 11 and 12. The orchestra, conducted by John Anderson, is joined by 12 principal dancers from the Monterey Dance Collective to stage three full-length and fully choreographed ballets under the direction of Choreographer Deanna Ross. The first ballet is a delightfully traditional and carefree French romantic piece by Gabriel Pierné, and is entitled Ballet de Cour. Next comes one of the all-time French classics, Debussy’s Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun. After intermission, the pace changes completely with four tangos by the Argentine master, Astor Piazzolla. Titled Concierto del Angel, these tangos tell a tale of an angel who comes from heaven to the tango beat of urban Buenos Aires. The Art of the Dance is presented on Saturday, February 11, at 8 p.m. in Carmel Valley’s Hidden Valley Institute of the Performing Arts, and on Sunday, February 12, at the Cabrillo College Recital Hall in Aptos. This concert is a once in a double decade event and is not to be missed! n ••• Program: Ballet de Cour ~ Gabriel Pierne • Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun ~ Claude Debussy • Concierto Del Angel ~ Astor Piazzolla Saturday, February 11 Hidden Valley Institute of the Performing Arts. Insights from the Conductor 7:00pm, Concert 8:00pm Sunday, February 12 Cabrillo College Recital Hall. Insights from the Conductor 6:00pm, Concert 7:00pm

Tickets General $28, Seniors $20. Students 20 & under and Active Duty Military Free! Ticket and venue information is available by calling 333-1283 or visiting ensemblemonterey.org.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / February 2012 / 7

CommunityNews

Court Ruling Affirms Fairground’s Historical Use WATSONVILLE — On Tuesday, January 24, 2012, Sacramento Superior Court Judge Lloyd G Connelly handed down a decision dismissing all challenges to the right of the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds to continue hosting rodeos. Each point made by the plaintiffs, Citizens for Environmental Responsibility and Stop the Rodeo, citing pollution, noise, and the need to conduct a full environmental review of the rodeo was negated in the ruling. The court found no negative environmental damage or danger to the public as a result of the event. Furthermore, Judge Connelly affirmed that equestrian events such as the Stars of Justice Rodeo held last year fit within the historical uses of the Fairgrounds. The real damage from this and other lawsuits filed by neighborhood groups is to the financial health of the Fairgrounds.

“We spent about $95,000 dollars last year defending the Fairgrounds against legal challenges to our operations” said Dave Kegebein, Fairgrounds Management Team Leader. He added “We have always been an event center open and available to all segments of our community, however we also want to continue to be very good neighbors.” The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds hosts a large number of community events highlighted by the annual County Fair. The 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 at www.santacruzcountyfair.com n

Santa Cruz County Bank Arts Collaborative Presents ‘REPEAT!’

St Petersburg Russia Red and White Ceiling

January 30 – April 20

epeat! is an exhibit displaying a playful exploration of repetition by six artists utilizing mixed media, photography, assemblage and construction. These artists showcase repetition and process in many different forms, bringing new meaning and context to simple shapes and patterns. The works in this show will delight and surprise your old notions of repeated imagery. Artists’ Reception: Join us for our opening reception on February 8 from 5-6:30 p.m. at 720 Front Street, Santa Cruz. Meet the artists, purchase artwork and network with other art lovers. Curated by Joan Blackmer. Exhibiting Artists: Dotti Cichon, Fanne Fernow, Angela Gleason, Jane Gregorius, Charlotte Kruk and Daniella Woolf. Exhibit Locations – Santa Cruz County Bank offices: Aptos – 7775 Soquel Drive • Capitola – 819 Bay Avenue • Santa Cruz – 720 Front Street • Scotts Valley – 4604 Scotts Valley Drive • Watsonville – 595 Auto Center Drive. Exhibit viewing and bank hours: Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. excluding Holidays.

8 / February 2012 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

True Grid - 5175 by Daniella Woolf

CommunityNews

2012’s Valentine’s Day Poetry Contest

12th Annual Times Publishing Group, Inc Competition

By Noel Smith

hether it’s young Love, Love that ning poem was chosen for each of our has stood the test of time, or the three newspapers (Aptos Times, Capitola memory of Love, it is Love that Soquel Times, and Scotts Valley Times). To express your love – in 250 words or is at the center of what we celebrate each February 14, Valentine’s Day. And what less – (see “Contest Rules” for complete could be more romantic than to write poet- details) tell the world what makes your ry about that Love for your lover - and for Valentine special. All entries must be our readers to read. So, submit your poem received by 5 pm, Monday February 6. about those tender, passionate feelings and Three first Place winners will be selected romantic thoughts to our annual poetry with the winning poems published in the March 1 issues of the Aptos Times, Capitola contest. Times Publishing Group is sponsoring Soquel Times and Scotts Valley Times. n ••• its 12th Annual Times Publishing Annual 2012 Poetry Contest Rules Valentine’s Day Poetry Contest to reward Please Read Carefully three local poets (and their sweethearts) rite a poem about, or to your with the ultimate in Valentine’s Day Valentine and send it to us. Only romance. It’s time for poets throughout the one poem per poet and no more than county to again wear their hearts on their 250 words and 25 lines. Submit it via email to info@cybersleeves making public their feelings for those whom The Capitola Soquel times.com with Poetry Contest in the subject they love. Times’ winning line or mail it to 9601 By entering the 2012 Times Publishing Annual prize is a Valentine’s Soquel Dr, Aptos, CA Valentine’s Day Poetry Day dinner for two 95003. Be sure to include Contest, you could be one of Café Cruz your name, address, day our three First Place winners. and evening phone numThe 2011 Times Publishing Annual Valentine’s Day Poetry bers, e-mail address, and for whom Contest drew poems from Watsonville to (fiancée, spouse, lost love, etc.) your Boulder Creek in every style imaginable. poem is written. Three First Place winning poems Some were funny, some romantic, some touching, and all were a joy to read! A win- will be selected by the Times Publishing editorial staff: from south county representing the Aptos Times; from CapitolaSoquel-Santa Cruz representing the Capitola Soquel Times and from Scotts Valley-San Lorenzo Valley representing the Scotts Valley Times. (Note: We welcome submissions from all readers living within Santa Cruz County.) The Capitola Soquel Times winning prize is dinner for two at Michael's On Main in Soquel. The winning poems will be published in the March 1 editions. All entries must be received by 5 pm on Monday, February 6, 2012. The winner will be notified on or before Friday, February 10. Please call us at 831-688-7549 if you have any questions. ••• 2011 Winners Capitola Soquel Times – Bob Lilley Aptos Times – Robin Moyer Scotts Valley Times – Barbara Obey

This poem is written for my wife Lisa

Once upon an empty time You brightened up my view And as you smiled and touched my hand I fell in love with you

On days of Sun and nights of rain We held each other near And screamed with joy and danced around And vexed life’s darkest fears

We’ve planted seeds and watched them grow While others, sadly died I’ve loved you as we laughed But loved you deeper while we cried These moments, weaved into a cloak,

Have kept away the chill Its colors, rich remembrances That lifts my spirit still

You’ve made my life a thing worthwhile Brought light to every day I love you more than can be told On just one Special Day

Our first date was a day trip to Capitola. Ten years later, we bought our home there. She has inspired me to be a little bit better person each day and shown me what “unconditional love” really means. She refers to our Capitola home as her “Happy House. Anyone who meets or, better, gets to know her would be inspired to write a poem. We have been married for 14 years.

Capitola Soquel Times First Place – Bob Lilley

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / February 2012 / 9

CommunityNews

County Office of Education Expanding By Noel Smith

n this day of lower property values, there are many bargains to be found in the commercial real estate market and the County Office of Education (COE) found such an opportunity just across the street from its headquarters at 400 Encinal St. The COE is buying a 10,000 sq ft building COE sponsored Inside Education visits Tierra Pacifica Charter School. at 399 Encinal St. from Wave Crest Development of Santa “We have supported our districts, through Cruz for $1.45 million. The current cost to program collaboration, infrastructure and buy the land and build a similar building technology support and development and would be about double, approximately $3 many other ways. This is not taking money – 4 million, according to a prominent local out of the classroom, we receive funding for new teacher support and other prodeveloper. Why another building? County grams as this is one of our core functions Superintendent Michael Watkins said his that we provide to an entire region. agency is currently at 95 percent capacity Districts generally do not have the econoand in order to provide additional space my of scale to provide these services localfor professional development and support ly as well as we can regionally.” If each district had to use its funding for programs such as Migrant Head Start, New Teacher Project and others the COE in support of all the services and programs provided by the COE and mandated by the needed more space. The County Office of Education uses state and even the federal government its resources for the benefit of all the school there would be far less money flowing into districts in the county. According to COE their classrooms. These services include Director of Fiscal Services, Jean Gardner, curriculum development, professional development, regional occupational program, alternative education, student support services, child development, academic competitions and financial services to name some that are available to the school districts and to the students of Santa Cruz County. (COE Website: www.santacruz.k12.ca.us) Each of these educational and professional programs provided, supported, or supervised by the COE brings education dollars into the county that would not be otherwise available. In a time of reduced funding for education, this is a valuable undertaking by the COE that is providing educational opportunities for the county’s schools and students that ordinary funding sources do not and cannot provide. Education is always about investing in the future. Whether it’s facilities, teachers, curriculum or services, the payoff isn’t today, it’s tomorrow.

10 / February 2012 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“Expanding Education” > 12

CommunityNews

The Chamber Orchestra Kremlin featuring pianist Sara Davis Buechner

Presented by the Distinguished Artists Concert & Lecture Series

ow in its 26th year, the Distinguished Artists Concert & Lecture Series is proud to offer another outstanding season of musical variety and excellence for the whole family to enjoy. We are very proud to present one of the premiere chamber orchestras in the world and feature international star, Sara Davis Buechner. ••• Saturday, February 4, 8 pm. At the new Cabrillo College Crocker Theatre rogram 4: Mozart’s charming Divertimento in D; Mozart’s dazzling Piano Concerto No. 13; Tchaikovsky’s luscious Serenade for Strings The virtuoso players of the Chamber Orchestra Kremlin with Sara Davis Buechner, Tchaikovsky Bronze medal winner, playing on one of the finest pianos in the world: the new Yamaha CFX nine-foot concert grand piano. Founded in 1991 by a RussianAmerican violinist and conductor, Misha Rachlevsky, this 17-member string orchestra has earned national and international recognition as a leading Russian ensemble. It has performed over 1300 concerts — nearly 500 in Moscow, the rest on tours in 24 countries of Europe, North and South America and the Far East. The orchestra has recorded over 30 CDs, receiving widespread international acclaim and awards such as the Diapason d’Or in France, Critics Choice in London’s Gramophone and in the New York Times, Record of the

Year in Hong Kong and others. Of about 900 compositions in the orchestra’s repertoire over 20 were written especially for the orchestra by composers from Russia, Europe and the USA. The orchestra, comprising some of Russia’s finest young string players, has consistently earned high praise from reviewers. The group has completed 25 tours in the United States: Misha Rachlevsky’s lifetime affinity for chamber music and chamber orchestra repertoire began at the College of the Moscow Conservatory and the Gnessin Academy of Music. Born in Moscow, his violin studies began at the age of five and continued through the well-traveled path of the Russian school of string playing. After leaving the Soviet Union in 1973, he lived and worked in different countries on three continents, and in 1976 settled in the United States, becoming active in the field of chamber music. The Distinguished Artists Concert & Lecture Series and the Yamaha Peninsula Music Center is proud to present one of the premier chamber orchestras in the world, a veteran of over 1400 concerts in 24 countries on an international tour coming to Santa Cruz County Tickets may be purchased online at TicketGuys.com 831-656-9507 ••• Sunday, February 5 at 3 p.m. Crocker Theatre: solo recital by Sara Davis Buechner rogram 5: Haydn’s Sonata in E Flat, Hob. XVI:52; Von Weber’s Sonata in G Major, Op. 24; Turina’s Danzas Gitanas; Gershwin’s Foxtrots Sara Davis Buechner (born: David Buechner, 1964) is a transsexual American concert pianist and educator. Buechner received her undergraduate degree from Juilliard School, and received her doctorate in music from the Manhattan School of Music. Sara Davis Buechner has been celebrated as a pianist of noteworthy accomplishment, virtuosic mastery, artistic sensitivity and extraordinary versatility. With an active repertoire of nearly 100 piano concertos ranging from Bach to Wuorinen, she has appeared as soloist with America’s most prominent orchestras: the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, Philadelphia Orchestra, Cleveland Orchestra, Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra and San

The Chamber Orchestra on the Kremlin stage.

Francisco Symphony Orchestra. Profiles of Sara Davis Buechner have appeared in The New York Times Magazine, Paris Match, Noticias del Argentina, Out, Blade and Frontiers magazines; and she has been featured on the television programs Entertainment Tonight, Extra, In the Life, and Bynon. Her appearances on radio include profiles on NPR’s The Fishko Files and Performance Today, WFMT’s Dame Myra Hess Recital Series and WNYC’s New Sounds with John Schaefer. Sara Davis Buechner’s recording of piano music by George Gershwin was selected as a “Record of the Month” by Stereophile magazine. Tickets $25 - $45 at www.ticketguys.com 831-656-9507 or www.BrownPapertickets.com, www.google.com or call John at 831-539-0000. ••• Buechner will perform both concerts on the new Yamaha CFX concert grand piano, named the Juanita Orlando Memorial Concert Grand. A marriage of old world craftsmanship and modern Japanese engineering, the CFX is considered by many to be the finest concert grand piano ever made. It’s clear, velvet sound has become the piano of choice by professionals and competitors in recent international piano competitions. This magnificent instrument will be available for members of the community to play on the Crocker Stage on Friday, February 3. Call 831-539-0000 to learn how you can take advantage of this incredible opportunity. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / February 2012 / 11

CommunityNews

Farm Bureau Director appearing in global ad campaign ess Brown, executive director of the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau and Agri-Culture, is now appearing in an international ad for Jameson Irish Whisky. The ad is part of a four-part campaign that the company is promoting to show John Jameson as a strong, independent man. The ad shows Jameson arm-wrestling and reads:

“After the 57th tried unsuccessfully to procure the secret of my distillation process, I had no choice but to switch to my good arm.” — John Jameson “Taste Above All Else”

The ad in which Jess appears can currently be seen on the New York and London subways and will be appearing in San Francisco as well as other US and European cities. It is based on an original oil painting by Pacific Grove artist, Warren Chang. Brown is the long-time executive “Expanding Education” from pg 10

The County Office of Education bought its current headquarters in 2007 for $6.9 million and then upgraded its facilities for another $2 million. Unfortunately it cost COE $850,000 for the lease on its previous location which was left empty after they moved out. However, the 30-year savings on the purchase is projected to save the COE $13.4 million over renting for the same period. The $1.45 million for the new facility comes from its $18 million reserve fund. Because of its fiscal policies, the COE’s current reserve equals about 30 percent of its annual budget. This has allowed the COE to provide $2 million in grants to county school districts over the past two years to help them through this difficult financial time.

director of the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau and appears as three of the figures in the ad. First he is the judge kneeling by the barrel serving as the platform for the contest. Second he is seen as the shirtless man standing behind Jameson. Lastly as one of the opponents standing at the back of the line with his arm raised. Brown and his wife Laura already own three paintings by Chang. “Because I know Warren and his work depicting agricultural subjects when he asked me to be one of the models I said, ‘yes’.” According to Brown, the painting was posed and photographed by a director from Los Angeles working with a group of eight models at a Carmel winery last summer. Brown is an art collector and has served on the boards of the Cultural Council of Santa Cruz County and the Monterey Museum. To learn more about Warren Chang and his art go to warrenchang.com n Gardner told the Times, “We have run our programs very conservatively over many years and have a healthy fund balance. We are able to assist districts and expand programs in these ways because of that. In recent years, with the onset of the state budget crisis, our board also directed our office to adopt a budget with minimal deficit spending. We made reductions and this also resulted in increasing our fund balances when others were draining reserves.” One activity that has helped the districts meet their education and student service goals is the COE’s alternative education program. Students in the program now number over 950 in comparison to just a little more than 600 in 2006-7. This program works closely with families and organization to help these students get on

Jess Brown’s image is used three times (circled) in this original art piece by Warren Chang as part of an ad campaign by Jameson Irish Whisky. the right path to a good education and a healthier, productive life. COE Trustee Vic Marani said, “The County must also serve the most disenfranchised population by reaching out to them and their families to get them out of gangs back into school and on the road to a better future. Otherwise, we’ll be building more prisons. Some students cannot succeed without additional support and these kids can slip through the cracks. That is why one of the COE’s functions is to run Alternative programs.” Count Office of Education

Superintendent, Michael Watkins said, “The COE is not in competition for education dollars with the districts we serve. We are here for the children whether it’s helping districts with their professional development, coordinating their programs, overseeing their finances, providing support services, or for the students, alternative and occupational education programs. We are here to give taxpayers with more educational bang for their hard earned dollars and to provide our children, no matter their background, with a solid education and hope for the future.” n

Superintendent Michael Watkins (from right), Tom Torlakson State Superintendent of Public Instruction and Santa Cruz County Board Of Education Trustee Vic Marani. 12 / February 2012 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

CommunityNews

There’s Still Time for 2011 Tax Relief!

f you’re just beginning to think about your 2011 income tax return, you’ve got a late start – but it’s still not too late to cash in on some savings. “A lot of the deductions associated with the economic stimulus package will disappear in 2012, so if you want to take advantage of them, you’ve got only until Dec. 31,” says Jessica James, CPA and author of Justice for None (www.AuthorJessicaJames.com), an insider look at IRS tactics in a tax fraud investigation and trial. But, she says, there’s still plenty of time for some other measures to ease your share of the tax burden. Now is also a good time to resolve to start earlier in 2012 to minimize that year’s tax bill. Here are some tips for both 2011 and 2012 savings: • Contribute to retirement accounts. If you haven’t already put money into your traditional or ROTH IRA account for 2011, you’ve got until April 17 to do it. If you have a Keogh or SEP (Simplified Employee Pension Individual Retirement Arrangement for businesses), and you get a filing extension to Oct. 15, you’ve got until then to make your 2011 deposits. The

maximum IRA contribution for 2011 is $5,000, or $6,000 if you’re 50 or older by the end of the year. For self-employed people, the maximum for SEPs and Keoghs for 2011 is $49,000. • Don’t fear the home office deduction. In the past, many tax filers didn’t claim a home office deduction because it was seen as an IRS red flag. But the requirements and forms have been clarified so people can do that properly – and not make mistakes that can lead to an audit. Also, the rules have been expanded so more people can claim the deduction. If you use a home office exclusively for business, even if you don’t meet your clients there, you’re eligible. For instance, a

handyman who does his work other people’s houses can claim the deduction if he does his paperwork at his home office. Another change is that, in the past, if you claimed 10 percent of your home as an office, that amount would not be included in the $250,000 tax-free profit from the home’s sale that’s allowed for an individual by the IRS. Be sure to make your claim reasonable, or it will get questioned; a $25,000 home office deduction for a business with $50,000 annual gross revenue is not reasonable. • Maximize your Flexible Spending Account. The Health Care Act will limit the maximum you can put into these pre-tax medical expense accounts in 2013. So 2012

is the last year to use an FSA to pay for orthodontics and other large medical expenses using pre-tax earnings. A medical expense flexible spending account, or FSA, allows you to use before-tax earnings to pay for medical or health care expenses not covered by your health insurance. Assuming a 25 percent tax rate, you avoid $25 in taxes for every $100 you spend from your FSA. • Need to sell an investment? Next year may be the time. The Tax Relief Act maintains the tax rate cap on capital gains and dividends at 15 percent through 2012. In 2013, the cap for capital gains will increase to 20 percent and for dividends, 39.6 percent. The Health Care Act also created a 3.8 percent Medicare tax on investment income, effective in 2013. Given those scheduled increases, plan to take advantage of the rates next year. n ••• Jessica James is a CPA and the author of a novel, Justice for None, about her experiences as a minor target in a major federal tax fraud case. After her ordeal, she decided to write about it as a warning to others who think they can take on the government and win.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / February 2012 / 13

FeaturedColumnist

By Judy Chamberlin

Dog’s Best Friend Is Monterey Bay Dog Training Club

14 / February 2012 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

humorist wrote that, “Properly trained a man can be a dog’s best friend.” Luane Vidak, retired Watsonville Teacher and one of the original founders of the Monterey Bay Dog Training Club, states this truth in another way. She says that all dogs with consistent obedience training can be responsible and responsive to the social, mental and health needs of their owners. This Club is now celebrating its 45th year in Santa Cruz County and offers two indoor evening classes. One is at Mid-County Senior Center on Thursday and the other at the Fairgrounds in Watsonville. There is also a morning class at Pet Pals in Soquel. Why bring your dog to this training? Luane found that people bring their dogs to these classes primarily to learn skills in controlling their pets, secondarily because they enjoy watching their dogs learn and for some to socialize with others of a common interest. The make- up of these classes also varies from youth to seniors who have dogs ranging in size from Chihuahuas to Saint Bernard’s. Obedience classes are leveled starting with Puppies/ Beginning 1, an eight-week class. It’s best, she says, to start dogs at a young age before bad habits develop but this isn’t often possible as people often have time constraints that don’t allow for training or perhaps an older dog has been adopted. Sometimes people want to wait until they have a better knowledge their dog’s temperament and possible reaction to behavior restructuring. In all classes the learning steps are sequential and if the training is consistent all dogs can be successful. At all training levels safety for the dogs and owners is paramount, thus proper equipment for control is vital. At Puppies/ Beginning 1, all dogs begin training on a leash. Food along with

verbal and physical praise is used to encourage dogs to move in a positive direction. The first step in this class is to make the dogs feel relaxed in their new circumstances. Next, there is a moving exercise on the leash with the dog learning to heel. The dogs then learn to sit and come to the owner on a leash. With owner’s persistence, the dogs remember when to sit, heel and come to the owner automatically on the leash. The next 8-week class is Beginning 2. This course includes much repetition of the first level plus other skills. According to Luane, any dog can stay at level 1 or 2 as it often takes a good deal of repetition for the dog to achieve these goals. At Monterey Bay Dog Training Club the Advanced Classes for dogs are a prelude to; lost item retrieval, scent discrimination in which people are tracked by their scent, search and rescue and other nose works such as gas leak detection, locating terminates and finding truffles. The Club’s Advanced Classes, Intermediate, Novice, Open and Utility, offer a wide range of learning experiences. These Advanced Classes are structured to prepare the dogs for Therapy Work or Obedience Trials if that is the owner’s goal. “SIA” > 20

CommunityNews

$18 million Hwy 1 Widening to Begin in February

he Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) will start construction on the Soquel/Morrissey Auxiliary Lanes Project in February 2012. Construction of the project will begin with vegetation and tree cutting, followed by soundwall construction. In order to minimize disruptions to Harbor High School, DeLaveaga Elementary School and the neighborhood, demolition of the La Fonda Bridge is scheduled to start at the beginning of summer break in 2012. The La Fonda Bridge will take approximately 6-8 months to rebuild.

“Highway 1” > 17

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / February 2012 / 15

CommunityNews

Coast Watershed Council gets Grant T he Coast Watershed Council (CWC), the principal organization responsible for preserving and protecting watersheds on California’s Central Coast through watershed monitoring, e d u c a t i o n and stewardship, announced today it has received a $35,000 grant from the David & Lucile Packard Foundation. The grant will provide watershed e d u c a t i o n programs to 150 4th & 5th grade students at O h l o n e Elementary School in Watsonville. CWC staff will work with teachers and students for one year beginning January 2012 to improve science literacy related to watersheds (drainage basins that lead to the ocean). The program will include classroom instruction, field trips to connect students with nature, and the development of tools that can be utilized by teachers in future classes. “This grant will make it possible for CWC to reach more teachers and students in Watsonville so we can share our effective watershed education programs and improve science literacy,” said Greg Pepping, executive director, CWC. “Reaching elementary school students with engaging environmental science curriculum is an essential component of understanding the critical importance of local

rivers and watersheds — and why we need to protect them.” The health of coastal watersheds is directly connected to the local economy

and quality of life. Watersheds impact everyone: drinking water supply, public health, recreation, wildlife, aquatic life and the tourism economy. Local residents are the single most important resource to protect watersheds. By educating and mobilizing residents to care for watersheds, CWC helps local leaders and resource agencies to preserve the Central Coast’s natural resources. n ••• The Coastal Watershed Council is the principal organization responsible for preserving and protecting watersheds on California’s Central Coast through watershed monitoring, education and stewardship. CWC invites the community to get involved today in the stewardship of local watersheds by calling (831) 464-9200 or visiting the CWC website at www.coastal-watershed.org.

16 / February 2012 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

‘Outside the Box – Abstractions in Art’

Scotts Valley ‘Art in the Library’ Showcases Renowned Local Artists SCOTTS VALLEY — The ‘Art in the Library’ program is quickly establishing the Scotts Valley Library as an art destination by attracting renowned artists for the program’s second installation ‘Outside the Box – Abstractions in Art,’ which will be installed and ready for public viewing on February 4. The showing features an impressive list of high-quality, respected local artists. For this 2nd ‘Art in the Library’ showing, Program Chair Val Peyser has selected: Mike Bailey Carol Bowie Mike McClellan James McElheron Moto Ohtake Eric Peterson Beth Shields Denise Shaw & SVMS art students The installation will include these artists’ abstract interpretations in a variety of mediums including painting, photography and sculpture. “The physical building of the new Scotts Valley library lends itself so well to art with its large, expansive walls and wonderful natural light,” notes Peyser. “So it is very gratifying that the community is embracing ‘Art in the Library’ so enthusi-

astically, and our county’s many experienced and respected artists are eager to participate.” The library has more than 15,000 visiting every month, and library employees report strongly positive feedback on the ‘Art in the Library’ program. “The work by our county’s accomplished artists enhances the experience of visiting the library, making the space more dynamic and visually interesting,” said Elizabeth Walch, president of the Friends of the Library — Scotts Valley Chapter. “The Art in the Library program is a natural extension of the library’s commitment to cultural education.” The ‘Art in the Library’ program launched its first showing in Summer 2011/12, and each display runs up to three months in length, and features six to eight artists at a time. Library and exhibit hours are Monday – Thursday 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., closed Sundays. n ••• More information on Friends of the Library — Scotts Valley and the ‘Art in the Library’ program is found at www.fsvpl.org. Artists interested in being considered for future shows may access an application at http://www.fsvpl.org/p/art-in-library.html.

CommunityNews

New Traffic Laws for the New Year SACRAMENTO — California motorists should be aware of some of the new laws that went into effect January 1, 2012. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is asking the motoring public to familiarize themselves with the changes. The following are highlights of a few of the significant changes for the upcoming year: A change to California’s Child Passenger Safety Seat law will now require children to ride in either a car seat or booster seat until the age of eight, or until they reach a height of 4 feet 9 inches. This law also requires children who do not meet the age or height requirement to ride in the rear seat of a vehicle unless the vehicle has no back seats, the restraint system cannot be properly installed or the rear seats are already occupied by children under age eight. However, the law still maintains that a child may not ride in the front seat of a vehicle with an active passenger airbag if they are under one year of age, less than 20 pounds, or riding in a rear-facing child safety seat. (SB 929, Evans) Drivers are required to stop and submit to a sobriety checkpoint. However, peace officers will be prohibited from impounding a vehicle for 30 days out of a sobriety checkpoint if the only offense by the driver is failing to hold a valid driver license. The new law requires that the offi“Highway 1” from pg 15

Highway 1 from Soquel Drive to Morrissey Boulevard is historically the busiest section of the highway carrying over 115,000 vehicles per day and routinely operating at the worst level of service (LOS) “F” for 8 hours each day. The completion of this project is anticipated to shift vehicles traveling in the area to Highway 1, rather than using local neighborhood streets. The project is consistent with the RTC’s mission to provide the community with a range of safe, convenient, reliable, and efficient transportation choices. Karena Pushnik of the SCCRTC said, “These auxiliary lanes are for merging and will help to increase the operational efficiency of highway 1 between Morrissey and Soquel. The next stretch slated for improvement is from Soquel Drive to 41st Avenue.” Newly elected Board of Supervisors’ chairman John Leopold who also sits on the RTC board said, “The SCCRTC board voted 11-1 to go ahead with the project. We were very pleased that the cost of construction was bid 22 percent lower than was estimated.”

cer make a reasonable attempt to identify the registered owner in order to release the vehicle. (AB 353, Cedillo) Anyone who is convicted of reckless driving under Section 23103.5 of the Vehicle Code can apply for a restricted driver license prior to the completion of their one-year suspension, provided they meet specified conditions, including the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device in their vehicle. (AB 520, Ammiano) Vehicles will be prohibited from crossing double parallel solid white lines except where permitted. (AB 1105, Gordon) Electric Vehicles (EV) must now be plugged in for refueling when occupying an EV designated parking space, otherwise

they may be towed. In addition, the law prohibits a person from obstructing, blocking, or otherwise barring access to an EVdesignated parking space. (AB 475, Butler) Local governments can now regulate advertising signs on any motor vehicle parked or left standing upon a public street, except for signs painted directly upon or permanently affixed to the vehicle for permanent decoration, identification, or display that do not extend beyond the overall length, width, or height of the vehicle. (AB 1298, Blumenfield) Section 23579 was added to the Vehicle Code, which authorizes courts to revoke a driver’s license for 10 years if a person is convicted of three or more DUIs. Under this law enacted in 2010, a motorist may be allowed to apply for reinstatement of his or her driver’s license with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) after five years, if the person installs an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in their vehicle. The law allows the DMV to terminate this restricted license if the IID requirements are not met. (AB 1601, Hill) The points above are only a synopsis of the new laws listed here and only a partial list of California’s new laws adopted for 2012. For complete information on chaptered bills enacted in 2011, please refer to the Legislative Counsel website at www.LegInfo.ca.gov. n

The $9.9 million highway construction contract was awarded to RGW Construction. The project total of $18 million dollars includes all costs including right-of-way, landscaping, and project management in order to complete the job. The public is invited to attend a Project Kick Off meeting to be held on January 19 at the DeLaveaga Elementary School featuring a presentation from 7 to 8 pm, preceded and followed by an open house with displays. Doors will open at 6:30 pm. A project flyer with Q&A is available on the RTC website. (http://sccrtc.org/wpcontent/uploads/2011/12/Flyer-Final-forweb.pdf) Components of the Highway 1 Soquel/Morrissey Auxiliary Lanes project include: • Adding one auxiliary lane in each direction on Highway 1 between the Soquel Avenue and Morrissey Boulevard interchanges. Auxiliary lanes connect an on ramp with the next off ramp to extend the weaving and merging distance between the ramps and improve traffic flow. They are not designed to carry through traffic, but to provide greater separation between vehicles entering and exiting the freeway to and

from mainline traffic. • Rebuilding the La Fonda Avenue overcrossing, adding bicycle lanes and a wider sidewalk for pedestrians. • Adding new “green” sidewalks along Rooney Street and Morrissey Boulevard between Elk Street and San Juan Avenue where none currently exist. The sidewalk work will feature the first publicly advertised application of a new concrete product that reduces green house gases using a partial cement replacement. The innovative product uses industrial carbon dioxide, which would otherwise be released into the atmosphere, and instead is permanently captured in a solid form. This project is funded with a combination of federal and state funds, including Proposition 1B bonds approved by California voters in 2006, State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) funds, Regional Surface Transportation Program (RSTP) funds and a federal earmark. For more information about this project and to find out ‘what’s new,’ please visit the project page on the RTC website: http://sccrtc.org/projects/streets-highways/highway-1-aux-lanes/ n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / February 2012 / 17

SportsWrap

Mid-County Scoreboard Boys Basketball

Soquel 58 – San Lorenzo Valley 45 Soquel Season Record (16-4, SCCAL 6-2) oquel Scoring: Scott Akrop 14 pts; Christian Fouquet 12 pts; Alex Shearer 5 pts; KC Snowden 4 pts; Lucas Cordoza 4 pts; Dylan Hunter 4 pts; Tucker Wiget 3 pts; Cody Valcarcel 3 pts; Nathan Vincent 2 pts; DeAndre Warren 2 pts.

S S

Santa Cruz 52 – Soquel 49 oquel Scoring: Tucker Wiget 10 pts; Cody Valcarcel 9 pts; Alex Shearer 6 pts; Sam Walters 6 pts; Lucas Cordoza 9 pts; Jon Tobin 5 pts; Scott Akrop 4 pts;

Soquel 57 – Harbor 37 Harbor Season Record (1-18, SCCAL 0-7) arbor Scoring: Corey Harris 11 pts; Kiree Hutchings 11 pt; Deane Renaldi 5 pts; Jasper Andrew 4 pts; Nico Ledwith 2 pts; Gavin Meeker 2 pts; Joseph Scalcini 2 pts. oquel Scoring: Sam Walters 17 pts; Alex Shearer 13 pts; Tucker Wiget 10 pts; KC Snowden 4 pts; Cody Valcarcel 3 pts; Scott Akrop 2 pts; Nathan Vincent 2 pts; Jake Rubens 2 pts; Jon Tobin 1 pt.

H S

St. Francis 58 – Harbor 42 arbor Scoring: Deane Renaldi 20 pts; Kiree Hutchings 14 pts; Joseph Scalcini 4 pts Jasper Andrew 2 pts; Corey Harris 2 pts.

Girls Basketball

Soquel 63 – San Lorenzo Valley 13 Soquel Season Record (18-2, SCCAL 8-0) oquel Scoring: Madison Rocha 11 pts; Ragine Graves 6 pts; Keahna Clark 6 pts; Tyler Stewart 5 pts; Marissa Azua 3

“Snoopy!!!” from pg 6

Sunday, Feb. 19th – 3:00pm Friday, Feb. 24th – 7:30pm Saturday, Feb. 25th – 3:00pm, 7:30pm Sunday, Feb. 26th – 3:00pm Special School Days Shows:

Cast Rehersals for “Snoopy!!! The Musical”

18 / February 2012 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

pts; Natalie Diaz 8 pts; Erika Bertelsen 7 pts; Annalise Bryant 6 pts; Tori McBride 7 pts; Zulieca Rodriguez 2 pts; Amanda Spinola 2 pts.

Soquel 44 – Santa Cruz 40 oquel Scoring: Ragine Graves 20 pts, 13 rbds; Tyler Stewart 9 pts; Marissa Azua 8 pts; Keahna Clark 4 pts; Madison Rocha 3 pts.

St. Francis 68 – Harbor 65 (OT) Harbor Season Record (6-11, SCCAL 0-4) arbor Scoring: Shannon Postle 18 pts; Maddie Ye 13 pts; Emily Braga 10 pts; Kayla Blackburn 7 pts; Danielle Grant 7 pts; Catherine Weeks 6 pts.

Girls Soccer

Soquel 1 – Santa Cruz 1 Soquel Season Record (7-3-3, SCCAL 3-2-2) Scotts Valley 1 – Soquel 0

Harbor 5 – San Lorenzo Valley 1 Harbor Season Record (7-2-3, SCCAL 3-1-3) Scotts Valley 3 – Harbor 0

Boys Soccer

Soquel 2 – Scotts Valley 1 Soquel Season Record (5-7-1, SCCAL 4-1-1) oquel Scoring: Omar Marquez 4th; Marquez 37th. n

Tuesday, Feb. 21st – 9:30am and 12:30pm Tickets are available online at www.cytsantacruz.org. Don’t miss this exciting performance! n ••• Christian Youth Theatre (CYT) is the largest national youth theatre organization and Santa Cruz hosts one of its newest affiliates. This non-profit educational organization offers after-school classes in drama, dance, and voice for kids ages 6-18. CYT also produces high quality, family friendly musicals three times a year. CYT is not affiliated with any church and people of all faiths are welcome. By employing quality teachers and directors, CYT teaches theatre in a healthy environment while promoting qualities of commitment, self-esteem, confidence, and integrity. With these goals in mind, CYT aims to develop character in kids, one stage at a time!

CommunityNews

South Indian Dance Company Abhinaya

Cabrillo College Presents 5th Annual Evening of World Theatre Saturday, February 25 at 8:00 PM, Cabrillo Crocker Theater

abrillo College Theatre Arts presents the Fifth Annual Evening of World Theatre with the Abhinaya Dance Company, featuring acclaimed dancer and artistic director Mythili Kumar, on February 25 at the Cabrillo Crocker Theater at 8:00 PM. Discover the rhythm and beauty of South Indian classical dance forms with the Abhinaya Dance Company of San Jose. Founded by its artistic director Mythili Kumar in 1980, the company presents

innovative and professional performances of Indian dance forms, primarily Bharatanatyam. The evening’s performance will feature Kumar, whom The Times of India, Mumbai dance critic praised, saying, “For a long time now, one had not witnessed a Bharatanatyam recital with a touch of rarity and class, marked by style and substance as the performance by Mythili Kumar … A grand evening with a great dancer.” Endowed with abundant grace and a commanding stage presence, Mythili Kumar performed extensively in India before moving to the U.S. in 1978. Trained in three different Indian classical dance forms – Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi and Odissi, Mythili gained recognition for her versatility when she performed all three styles in a single performance. In 1980, she began teaching Bharatanatyam in the Bay Area at the request of a few friends, naming it the Abhinaya School of Dance. Touring the USA and Canada with musicians from India, to great acclaim, provided the inspiration for Kumar to

inculcate this passion in her students as well. The school gained a reputation for excellence from its first student performance as well as its first original production of Shiva-the Cosmic Dancer in 1986. With the award of the company’s first grant, and the successful audition of its first batch of students for the San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival, the path was laid for Mythili to continue with her innovative and creative work. Presenting performances of the highest caliber that have won praise from the community, the school garnered continuous support from various funding agencies, eventually leading to the transformation of the school to a non-profit organization in 1990, known as the Abhinaya Dance Company of San Jose. The company has toured throughout India and many parts of the U.S. Kumar has been honored by World Arts West with the Malonga Casquelord Lifetime Achievement Award and a “Sustained Achievement Award” by the Bay Area Isadora Duncan Award committee. Mythili

has received choreography grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, and her creativity has led her to choreograph several original productions as well as solo pieces over the years that have constantly won acclaim. n ••• Abhinaya Dance Company Saturday, February 25 at 8 p.m. Cabrillo Crocker Theater, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos. Free Parking on weekends Tickets: Price: $18 General, $15 Seniors/Students, $13 w/SAC card. Online Tickets: www.cabrillovapa.com or 831-4796154

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / February 2012 / 19

FeaturedColumnist

How Much Will That Little Bundle of Joy Cost You? Try $163,000

t certainly comes as no surprise to parents that raising a child can be expensive. But just how expensive? While many financial studies focus solely on college costs, research by the U.S. Department

Money Matters Brian Cooke

By Brian Cooke and Cole Strickland, LPL Financial Advisors of Agriculture (USDA) provides parents and prospective parents with a general idea of the cumulative expenses for a child before college kicks in. The results are sobering. The average total child rearing costs for a child born in 2010 and living at home through age 17 range from $163,440 to $377,040, depending on the family’s income level. The USDA calculations include a wide variety of expenses, including housing, child care and education, health care, clothing, transportation, food, personal care, and entertainment. Estimated Cumulative Child-Rearing Expenditures, 2010-2027 • Lowest Income Group (<$57,600) = $163,440 • Middle Income Group (between $57,600-$99,730) = $226,920 • Highest Income Group (>$99,730) = $377,040 (Source: USDA, Expenditures on Children by Families, 2010; June 2011. All figures are in 2010 dollars.) Households in the lowest income group (those earning under $57,600 per year) are estimated to spend 25% of their before-tax income on a child, while those in the highest income group (earning more than $99,730 annually) are estimated to spend just 12%. For a middle-income family with two children, the largest expenditures are: Housing, at an average of 31% of total expenses. • Child care/education, 17%. • Food, 16%. • Transportation, 14%. • Health care, 8%. Total annual costs for that middle-

20 / February 2012 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

The average total child rearing costs for a child born in 2010 and living at home through age 17 range from $163,440 to $377,040, depending on the family’s income level.

income, two-child family range from $8,480 to $9,630 per child on average. For those couples with only one child, costs tend to be as much as 25% higher. Overall, costs for single parent households average about 7% less. Not surprisingly, geography matters. Parents in the “Urban Northeast” had the highest average expenses, while those in “Rural” areas had the lowest. It also should come as no surprise to parents that it is generally more expensive to raise a child today than it was when they were children. Average child-rearing expenses for a middle-class family have climbed nearly 25% since 1960. The USDA website has a free calculator that can help parents estimate their

childcare costs. The Cost of Raising a Child Calculator factors in geography, single or two-parent status, and the costs of additional children. The tool is available here: www.cnpp.usda.gov/calculator.htm. n ••• This article is not intended to provide specific investment or tax advice for any individual. Consult your financial advisor, your tax advisor or us at (831) 476-SAVE if you have any questions. LPL Financial, Member FINRA/ SIPC Brian Cooke and Cole Strickland, MBA are Financial Advisors with LPL Financial CA Insurance Lic. #0D63585, CA Insurance Lic. #0G22630LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC 1500 41ST Ave. Suite 244 Capitola, CA 95010 (831) 476-SAVE (7283). Tracking #1-029019

“SIA” from pg 14

This club does Therapy Dog Work and demonstrations for schools, clubs and rest homes and an annual demonstration at the Santa Cruz County Fair. The Club also collects items for a local organization called Annie’s Blankets, which, as the name implies, makes blankets for local animal shelters. With all that Luane does for dogs, she appreciates the interest given to animals and gives Kudos to Mid-County Senior Center for the use of their wonderful facilities for training during the last six years. Anyone interested in these Classes can contact Luane at 831-724-6657. Man’s ‘best friend’ really, “Possess beauty without vanity; strength without insolence; courage without ferocity; and all the virtues of man without his vices.” If you are interested in any of our activities come to Mid-County Senior Center or call 476-4711. n

For individuals who enjoy dog training so much that it becomes a hobby there are the American Kennel Club activities. These events are where dogs can be tested and earn degrees after further training. These activities are open to handlers with handicaps including wheel chair individuals and people who must attend on canes. Dog training club instructors have all kinds of information to guide people into their area of interest for this training. The Monterey Bay Dog Training Club does philanthropic work as well as dog training. They provide monetary support to students enrolled in Veterinarian Schools of Medicine as well as providing financial donations for disaster relief of animals. With Gifts From The Heart, the Club donates monies locally where needed.

Gold Standard Chorus Seats Officers old Standard Chorus installed its 2012 officers in a ceremony at Peachwood’s: (L to R) Ian Blackwood, treasurer; Allen Takahashi, music VP; Dan Jett, secretary; Les Stagnaro, VP at large; Jack Gordon, membership VP; Jordan Johnson, director; and Nick Roberto, president. A senior at Soquel High School, Nick is the youngest person ever to have served as chapter president. His first official act after installation was to lead the chorus in singing Harmony Leads the Way. All of the officers are enthusiastic about bringing another year of barbershop to the Santa Cruz area and continuing the chorus’s traditions of Valengrams in February, visits to the county’s high schools, the Cabaret Show in June, Sing

Gold Standard Chorus Officers

for Your Life in November and holiday caroling in December. You may visit the chorus at www.scbarbershop.org. ••• VFW — Deputy of the Year Award n January 25, Aptos Post 10110 VFW presented Deputy Roger Galvin with the Deputy of the Year Award. Every year a deputy is honored with this award for their outstanding work and dedication. Deputy Galvin was chosen because of his passion and commitment to the public he serves. An example of how Deputy Galvin’s hard work paid off was when he began to Roger Galvin investigate a residential burglary case. Deputy Galvin identified a potential suspect and continued to do follow up on the case. He learned the potential suspect was pawning the stolen property in San Francisco. After a long and thorough investigation, Deputy Galvin interviewed the suspect and obtained a full confession. He was able to return $30, 000 worth of antique silver pieces back to the victim and the suspect was arrested for multiple burglaries involving several victims.

••• February Department of Fish and Game Calendar e e k e n d s — Elkhorn Slough Ecological Reserve docent-led walks, every Saturday and

CommunityBriefs

Sunday, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Binoculars and bird books available to borrow at no cost. Visitor Center and main overlook are fully accessible. Day use fee is $4.32 per person, ages 16 and older. Groups of 10 or more should schedule a separate tour. n Directions and more information at www.dfg.ca.gov/lands/er/region4/elkhorn.html

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / February 2012 / 21

FeaturedColumnist The Book Bag by Robert Francis

The Book Bag by Robert Francis

Ten Little Caterpillars

By Bill Martin Jr. Illustrated by Lois Ehlert Beach Lane. $17.99 (Ages 2-6) he big, vibrant, colorful illustrations make this picture book something special and one that small children will enjoy looking at. A number of little caterpillars crawl over a variety of large flowers, leaves and veggies. Other creatures like spiders, ladybugs, birds and even a large fish, are included in the various scenes. The text is fairly simple and the author does provide the names of all the foliage, flowers and other critters as well as a limited narrative. Then, at the end of the book, you’ll find ten caterpillars, such as the mourning cloak and cabbage looper, along with an illustration of the moth or butterfly they change into. This illustrated guide also includes a little information on what each caterpillar likes to munch upon. Not only is this a very eye appealing book, but it also serves as the ideal introduction to caterpillars and the transformation they undergo to become moths or butterflies.

Light Up the Night

By Jean Reidy Illustrated by Margaret Chodos-Irvine Hyperion. $16.99 (Ages 4-8) he youngster featured in this book begins by introducing the reader to his universe and the planets and stars that “glow bright and light up the night.” From outer space he then heads down towards Earth, his “own little piece of the universe.” The journey continues as the next focus is on the child’s country, then his town, his house, his room and then his very own bed. The rhymed narrative makes this not only a pleasant read aloud book but also

Give a child a book for Valentine’s Day …

one that beginning readers should be able to handle without too much d i f f i c u l t y. Introducing children to the concept that we are part of a much bigger world is also a good idea and this picture book does so in a free and easy manner.

Home-Field Advantage

By Justin Tuck Illustrated by Leonardo Rodriguez Simon & Schuster. $16.99 (Ages 4-8) rofessional football player Justin Tuck of the New York Giants narrates this picture boot that explains why he is such a tough professional a t h l e t e . “When people ask me how I got to be so tough, I say, ‘You’d be tough too, if you grew up with my five sisters!’” In this book, Tuck describes the time when he was a little boy and his sisters decided to give him a haircut. Snip, snip, snip! What he ended up with was a “reverse Mohawk” and poor Justin was so embarrassed he hid in his room. The illustrations in this picture book are cute and draw the reader into what is a “so-so” narrative. Anyone with lots of siblings can relate to this story, but otherwise it probably won’t appeal to a wide audience other than Tuck’s New York fan base. I seriously doubt that plastering “NFL SUPERSTAR” on the cover will do much to boost the sales of this book!

22 / February 2012 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Race the Wild Wind A Story of the Sable Island Horses

By Sandra Markle Illustrated by Layne Johnson Walker. $17.99 (Ages 4-8) ocated off the coast of Nova Scotia, arc shaped Sable Island is the home to about 300 wild horses. This picture book tells the story of how these sturdy animals have weathered storms and other inclement conditions and actually thrived in the rugged environment. T h e story begins with the horses swimming ashore after being taken out to the island on a sailing ship. Once on the island, the small herd had to acclimatize itself to the sand, wind and odd sea creatures they shared their new home with. Although there was no shelter from foul weather and snow, there was enough to eat and no natural predators to fear. Over the years the horses not only adapted to their new surroundings, they also thrived. Sandra Markle’s beautiful horse illustrations make this picture book all the more enjoyable. Any child who loves horses will relish this story and re-read it again and again.

No Two Alike

By Keith Baker Beach Lane. $16.99 (Ages 3-7) ust as no two snowflakes are alike, we see in this picture book that the two red birds also featured here are different. As the two curious birds explore their winter environment, they find there are different critter tracks in the snow, different branches on the trees, and even different snow covered fences separating the fields. The birds fly past birdhouses that are the winter homes of different sizes and kinds of birds and they notice different ani-

mals in the forest below. By the final page, the message is quite clear – we may be similar, but not exactly alike. With its wonderful winter motif, this picture book not only stresses the uniqueness of each creature and object shown, but with the white, snowy background, the brightly colored creatures like the birds also pop out at the reader.

It’s a Small World Sticker & Activity Book

Illustrated by Nancy Kubo Disney Press. $6.99 (Ages 5 and up) his activity book features lots of reusable stickers that can be put to good use in all sorts of ways. The youngster is invited to match animals to the clues describing them, pair smiling faces with hats from around the world, create his or her own jungle and safari scenes and place famous landmarks in the proper location. Some sections of the book show a scene from some international city and then in the space beneath it the child is asked to recreate the scene using the selection of stickers. The youngster can also let his or her imagination dictate how a scene should look given just the background or the child can use the stickers to make up an original story. Since the stickers do pose a choking hazard, no youngster who is still likely to place things in his or her mouth should be given this book. For older children, though, this is an ideal way of not only learning a little about geography and other cultures, but the use of the book also encourages creativity.

CommunityNews

Cabrillo College now has Centralized Ticketing

Tickets for arts events available online and in-person starting February 9

he Cabrillo College Visual and Performing Arts Division (VAPA) presents new centralized ticketing and box office options for campus arts events, starting with the spring semester on February 9. Previously tickets to most campus events were only available at the door, night of show. Beginning with the spring season, the new VAPA Box Office located at the Crocker Theater will now offer three easy ways to purchase tickets to campus arts events. Purchase tickets • Online - Visit www.cabrillovapa.com. Tickets can be mailed or picked up at the Box Office. • Via Phone - 831-479-6154 Thursdays and Fridays from 12:00 to 4:00 pm. • In Person - Box Office, Thursdays and Fridays, 12:00 to 4:00 pm, and one hour prior to events. Box Office Hours & Information The Box Office is open Feb. 9 through May 25, Thurs. and Fri. from 12 pm to 4 pm

• Please bring ID to retrieve tickets at the box office. • For student tickets purchased online, student ID is required at events. • Student Activity Card (SAC) holders must purchase tickets in-person to receive a discount. No phone or online SAC card purchases. Box Office Fees All ticket prices include a handling fee • Online purchases = $1 fee per ticket* • Mailed tickets = $2 fee per transaction • Online tickets $21 to $42 ea. - $2 per ticket online fee. • Online tickets $42 or more ea. - $3 per ticket online fee. n ••• Cabrillo VAPA Box Office: Online at www.cabrillovapa.com • In-person, at the Crocker Theater, Feb 9 - May 25, Thursdays and Fridays, 12 to 4 PM Parking is free at the Arts Complex and at Twin Lakes Church, Monday -Thursday after 7 PM, Friday after 5 PM, and weekends.

Cabrillo College has Area V Vacancy for Board of Trustees

Applications for Provisional Appointment Due February 10 by 12 noon

abrillo College today announces that due to the resignation of Rebecca Garcia, a vacancy exists in the seat representing Area V of the Board of Trustees of the Cabrillo Community College District. The Board of Trustees is now soliciting nominations to fill the seat. The provisional appointment will begin immediately following selection by the Board of Trustees on February 21, 2012, and the appointee will fill the position until the next regular election of the Board of Trustees in November of 2012. Anyone interested in serving on the Board during this interim period is encouraged to do so by submitting a brief statement of interest and qualifications. Statements must be received in the President’s Office at Cabrillo College by Friday, February 10, 2012 at 12 noon. Statements may be submitted via email (dohansen@cabrillo.edu), via fax (831/4796153), or in person (Cabrillo College -

Room 806, Building 800, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos). Eligible candidates for the seat must reside and be registered to vote in Trustee Area V. Trustee Area V includes a portion of the City of Watsonville and the southern portion of Freedom, southeast of South Green Valley Road. “Area V” > 24

www.TPGonlinedaily.com www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / February 2012 / 23

FeaturedColumnist

How to Square any multiple of 5 in your head

ne of the most common math problems is squaring a number, or multi- plying the number by itself. This is denoted by showing the number with a “2” subscript: 52 is read as “5 squared,” and means 5 × 5 = 25. In learning their multiplication tables, most school children learn to square the numbers up to about 10 and sometimes 11 or 12, but most schools never teach children to square larger numbers. Yet, with a little practice anyone can learn to square numbers up to 50, or even 100. In your head, without pencil and paper, and in most cases faster than you can type it into a calculator. In this lesson, I’ll show you how to square the multiples of 5, up to 100. That is, 5, 10, 15, ... 100. All you need to know is your multiplication tables up to 10. “Area V” from pg 23

Please contact the Santa Cruz County Office of Elections at 454-2060 to verify whether you reside and are registered to vote in Trustee Area V. Also, please feel free

First, those that end in 0 are especially easy. To square any of the multiples of 10, all you do is square the left digit and say “hundred.” Or if you are writing it, square the left digit then add “00.” For example, to calculate 30 squared, or 30 × 30, multiply 3 by itself to get 9, and then say “hundred:” 302 = 900.

Seventy squared, 70, is 4900. Just multiply the 7 by itself to get 49, then say “hundred.” The numbers ending in 5 (15,25,35, etc.) are almost as easy. The key fact to remember is that all these answers end in 25. So, the last part of your answer is always “25.” The first part is just the first digit of the number times the next higher digit. Example 1: Find the square of 65, that is, 65 × 65. The first digit is 6, and 6+1 = 7, so multiply 6 and 7 to get 42, then say “25.” The answer is 4225. Example 2: Find the square of 85. The first digit is 8, 8+1 = 9, 8×9 is 72, then say 25. The answer is 7225. Now you can square 20% of the integers up to 100. In future issues, I’ll explain how to do the others, as well as

other interesting math ideas. n ••• Bert Lundy is the Director of Learn for Excellence tutoring center, 1929 Main Street, Watsonville. 831-656-2094.

to contact the Cabrillo College President’s Office at 479-6302 if you have any questions about the position. n ••• Cabrillo College is a leading California community college serving Santa Cruz County

with locations in Aptos, Scotts Valley and Watsonville. Cabrillo College is a dynamic, diverse and responsive educational community that is dedicated to helping all students achieve their academic, career, and personal development goals.

Please contact the Santa Cruz County Office of Elections at 4542060 to verify whether you reside and are registered to vote in Trustee Area V.

In this lesson, I’ll show you how to square the multiples of 5, up to 100. That is, 5, 10, 15, ... 100. All you need to know is your multiplication tables up to 10.

24 / February 2012 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

FeaturedColumnist

Riddle: What time will it be when the future shows up?

By Camille Smith

To kick off the “how” discussion, let’s look at our relationship with the future. Our conventional, well-entrenched wisdom tells us that the future is something out there that will show up some day. Tomorrow, maybe, but not today. Oh, and about tomorrow. Orphan Annie reminds us: “Tomorrow! Tomorrow! I love ya Tomorrow! You’re always a day away!” (For those who prefer Steve Miller’s “Fly like an eagle”: Time keeps on slippin’, slippin’, slippin’ into the future) Maybe that puts a crimp in our plans. Maybe not. hat time is it? For another perspective of the future, consider Eckhart Tolle’s view of time from The Power of Now: • We are conditioned to think in terms of [three distinct domains of time] past, present and future. • We are preoccupied with looking both backwards and forwards, anything rather than focus on the present, the here and now. • We focus on the past because this is what gives us our sense of identity and what has led us to the life circumstances that we currently face. • We focus on the future because this is where all our dreams and fears will play out. • We can never actually experience the past or the future. The past is gone. We only ever experience it as a whole series of NOW’s when we talk or think about it in the present. The same will be true of the future: when it arrives it will be NOW. The only thing that ever has any What is not started today is never finished tomorrow real, underlying validity, — Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is the present, the Now. Combine what Your turn: Take one action now that matches Tolle says with your the future you desire. own experience and Ghandi’s familiar shift to you invited I In December’s column, quote: Be the change Big a creating from making resolutions to you wish to see Enough WHY? for 2012 — a shift from being in the world. resolved (with crossed fingers) to being comWhen we “be” mitted. the change we wish to see, we (Link to either TPG’s online of last column or behave today, http://www.wipcoaching.com/2011/12/29/bring-inright now, in a the-new-year-with-a-big-enough-why/) manner that’s consistent with the future we desire. By doing so, we generate the future now.

ow’s it going? One of the questions that naturally arises once you have your B.E.WHY is, HOW? How do I make the unpredictable happen? There is a methodology to achieving breakthrough results. That’s what we’re talking about here, not just incremental improvement, but a break from the predictable. (BTW, incremental is fine and appropriate in many situations.) Repeatedly and reliably producing breakthrough results requires, among other things, expanding self-awareness, questioning beliefs, going beyond comfort zones, thinking in new ways, and welcoming breakdowns. All that requires a particular way of being.

Whatever you want to experience or be someday, in the future, act and be that way today. Behave today in a way that’s consistent with your future commitment. If you are committed to someday working with people who respect and trust each other, act, as best you can, in a trusting manner with your co-workers today. If you are committed to having more transparent relationships, reveal yourself today. And do it again when the next today comes around. Being and repeating the behavior consistently brings about the change we wish to see. WIPC TIP: Kick start your year by creating and keeping a commitment that takes no more than a week or two to complete. This spark of success will light the fuse for fulfilling other commitments for the year.

Planning’s good, acting gets results. Where you are is the best (and only) starting place. This isn’t about doing it perfectly; it’s about engaging and discovering your own answer to How? Take action NOW, not tomorrow, which is (sing along with me) always a day a way. Now, answer the riddle. Take care, Camille Smith n ••• Office: 831-685-1480 ~ Mobile: 831-2515190. President, Work In Progress Coaching ~ Turning potential into results ~ www.wipcoaching.com Camille LIVE Video: www.wipcoaching.com/ the-brightside-of-burnout/ Free Webinar: Values & Engagement: unboundideas.com/past-events/camille-smith/ Global Leaders: www.openaction.org/gwln

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / February 2012 / 25

FeaturedColumnist

The Power of Feng Shui

Finding Mr. Right in the Modern Age

By Denise Vivar

he course of true love never did run smooth,” reasons Lysander in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, attempting to soothe Hermia as she despairs over love’s tribulations. Indeed, tragic love has historically been a popular theme - think of Lancelot and Guinevere, Orpheus and Eurydice, Rama and Sita, Bogart and Bergman, Pepé Le Pew and Penelope Pussycat. It would seem just about everything gets in the way of love’s progress: age, class, family, wars, body odor. If only someone enlisted the help of feng shui! Feng shui could have addressed these issues and more. This ancient energetic art originally used in burial rites, then later in homes and businesses, addresses many aspects in our lives regarding our families, communication, health, wealth, work and relationships. Things might have been different for poor little Romeo Montague had he and the Capulets worked on their relationship and family sectors. But of course removing the drama removes the story’s seduction and box office appeal. Modern day love is no less fraught with its trials and perhaps even more so as we gather together less and Twitter more. Just finding one’s potential love interest is a challenge. Without the matchmakers and family to introduce us to potential partners, we’re left on our own to find and secure a match and we often stumble at

26 / February 2012 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

this game. And the biggest obstacle to finding love is our own psyches. Now we contend with body image issues, lack of confidence, and financial insecurities. The voice in our head tells us that we are unattractive and undesirable. We stand at life’s thresholds time and again (literal and metaphorical), shackled by timidity, shame or indecisiveness and we are frustrated because we cannot attract the love we so deserve.

“Whoever loved that loved not at first sight?” Feng shui principal asserts that our internal environment, our psyche, is indelibly connected to our external environment and each are strongly affected by one another. Feng shui not only deals with placement of objects, but also with flow of energy and balance of elements the disposition of which are married to our thoughts, attitudes and behaviors. The issue of attracting love in our life would then be addressed on a holistic level - our relationships are a product of all that we believe and invite into our lives. For centuries, people have proclaimed the profound results of the conscious alignment of their internal environment with their external environment. Many a wooing woman has described feeling more secure, attractive and better able to connect with others by applying the principles of feng shui. It stands to reason that if we meet love and life on our terms with confidence and the feeling of wholeness we are nothing less than utterly alluring. n ••• Denise Vivar assists single women looking for Mr. Right by helping them break through blocks to finding and attracting the right man using the power feng shui. Workshop starting Feb. 13. Contact her at PowerOfRadiance@ gmail.com for more information.

FeaturedColumnist

&About

Out T

Bakeries in Watsonville wo bakeries in Watsonville well worth a visit are Bagel Café & Bakery and Freedom Bakery & Confections. I sampled their goodies recently and they’re turning out some delicious stuff. Bagel Café makes semi-sweet bread – similar to brioche – that is simply delicious, as well as every flavor of bagel you can imagine. They also make specialty coffees, salads, cakes, pies and pan dulce. Freedom Bakery makes a cookie that I absolutely love. It’s a latte shortbread dipped in Belgian chocolate. They specialize in custom made cakes, gifts and favors of all kinds for weddings, parties and corporate events, so they don’t have a store we can visit, unfortunately. But their custom cakes and cupcakes are available at Windmill Market in San Juan Bautista and Scotts Valley Market in Scotts Valley. Bagel Café & Bakery, 1830 Main St., Watsonville, 722-3838. www.bagelcafebakery.com. Freedom Bakery & Confections, 125 Hangar Way #120, Watsonville, 866-5487266. www.FBandC.com.

Eat Local am a great believer in supporting local businesses – including eating local food. When I received a book in the mail entitled “Eat Local: Simple Steps to Enjoy Real, Healthy & Affordable Food,” I was more than happy to keep it on my bookshelf for reference. “Eat Local” includes the why’s and how’s of finding, purchasing, preserving and using local foods, eating seasonally, and eating less meat. The author is Jasia Steinmetz, a food and nutrition professor of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in the School of

Health Promotion & Human Development. “Eat Local” covers a wide range of topics such as: Convenience; Children’s Health; Economics; Key benefits of local foods; Seasonal local food-eating strategies; Local food cooking and preparation tips – and much, much more. The book is available at www.Amazon.com and other online booksellers. Learn more at www.EatLocalSimpleSteps.com.

The Penny Ice Creamery’s second location — The Picnic Basket he Penny Ice Creamery people – and that would be owners Kendra Baker and Zachary Davis – opened up a second location last year in June called The Picnic Basket. As well as their delicious ice cream, they serve salads and soups made with ingredients from local farms and artisan food makers including The Rib King, El Salchichero, Companion Bakers, Verve coffee, and kraut from Farmhouse Culture. This place really does a brisk business with all these different choices. It’s time to pay them a visit if you haven’t done so already. The Picnic Basket, 125 Beach St., Suite B, Santa Cruz, 427-9946.

By Josie Cowden

the knife? How is one expected to slice through meat, potatoes and what have you with the blunt edge of a fork. Does one have to commit the absolute sin of biting off a chunk of food at the end of one’s fork while the rest remains suspended on the tines? If one is served tiny bites of food, such as a bowl of rice, then a

fork is not really needed. Otherwise, I prefer not to struggle with just a fork and I always politely ask my host for a knife as well. n ••• Josie Cowden is a freelance writer and proofreader. Contact her at ravenone274@comcast.net.

Super Bowl

Chowhound Cooking Classes f you have ever thought of upping your skills in the culinary arts, i.e. learning to cook really healthy and tasty food, then Denise Ward has the answer. Ward has four cooking classes coming up in February and more set for March. The classes are held in Ward’s Aptos home and they’re always upbeat and fun – and you get to eat the spoils afterward. Info: www.chowhoundcooks.com or email denise@chowhoundcooks.com or call 600-5794.

Distinguished Artists Concerts and Lecture Series his is a heads up for two wonderful concerts set for Feb. 4 and Feb. 5 at the Cabrillo Crocker Theater in Aptos. They will feature the Chamber Orchestra Kremlin and acclaimed piano soloist Sara Davis Beuchner. Info: www.distinguishedartists.org.

T I

Dining Etiquette can never understand why one is given just a fork to eat a meal. Please, where is

11. It can be white-tailed 45. The infamous 66. *Defensive ___ 30. Pass away ACROSS JonBenet ______ or black-tailed 68. Quechuan people 1. No longer required to 35. A graduate case 69. Inanimate thing that 12. He/she "____ on the 37. Of sound mind lick this 49. Site of 2016 safe side" talks? 39. Specialty 6. *Kick catcher Olympics 70. Electric swimmer 15. Bushy tree growth 40. *Can be used to 9. Manufactured describe a safety 71. Not fashion-minded 20. *Tony Siragusa's 51. Preacher's platform 13. BBQ spot 54. Show contempt nickname 72. Volcano action 14. Argonaut's propeller 41. Item in diary 56. Nincompoop 15. Inside of a jacket 43. To finish with a ceil- 73. Wade's opponent 22. Egyptian cobra 57. Peach and strawber74. Austin Powers creator 24. Trusted advisors 16. Lusitania's destroyer ing ry preserves, e.g. 25. *Last year's MVP 17. *___ Bowl, 1 week 44. Twig of willow tree 26. Nonchalantly uncon- 58. Summit location before Super Bowl 46. It includes upward DOWN 59. Traffic controller cerned and downward dogs 1. Basketball star Tim 18. _____ peace 27. Derived from gold 60. "I ____ it!" Duncan, e.g. 47. It replaced the ECU 19. Type of sale 61. Not in use 21. *Last year's winner 48. Food of the gods? 2. Inhibition resulting 29. Like a clown from social custom 31. *Hall-of-Famer and 62. Heart pain 23. International trade 50. "Where the Wild Super Bowl XXIII MVP 63. Hair removal prodThings Are" rollick 3. A-bomb particle organization uct 52. Teacher's favorite 4. *Most frequent Super 32. Frost over 24. Screen material 64. #22 Down, pl. 33. Frodo Baggins' Bowl host 53. *A field goal wide 25. Legal group 67. What's old is new homeland 5. Sometimes mashed right, e.g. 28. Process of seeping 34. Feudal lord's property again, prefix 55. Immeasurable period 6. Antonym of "yup" 57. *She infamously 7. ENT's first concern? 36. *Team captains do it on the 50 yard line 8. Figure of speech had a wardrobe 38. Consequently 9. Not to be worn, malfunction © Statepoint Media according to PETA 42. Mandarin's head61. *This year's host Answers on 31 » quarters 10. ____ Hathaway 65. Repent www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / February 2012 / 27

ired of Clutter? Stuff piling up? Support is available. CLA meeting every Friday. For more info call 426-1868 FREE

Announcements

Volunteers Needed to Help Get GMO Foods Labeled

olunteer signature gatherers are needed to get “The Label GMO Food Act” on the 2012 California ballot this fall. According to the US Congressional Research Service, 60% - 70% of processed foods likely contain genetically engineered materials but they are not labeled as such. One-hour training workshops will be held to review the procedures to successfully gather signatures. Volunteers are asked to commit to a three-hour time slot per week over an eight week period from midFebruary through April 18. Trainings will take place at the New Leaf Community Markets, 1101 Fair Ave., Santa Cruz on Sunday, Feb. 12, from 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm. To sign up or for more information, visit www.labelgmos.org/santacruz or email gmofreesc@gmail.com.

Saturdays

Come As You Are Zen

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.

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Aptos Certified Farmers Market

Tuesdays thru Fridays, Sundays

Ongoing thru April 1

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

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.

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

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

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

28 / February 2012 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

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 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.

Fourth Wednesday each Month

Ongoing Constitution Classes

7:00 pm Quaker Meeting House, 225 Rooney St. Santa Cruz

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

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

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

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.

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

1:00pm-4:00pm Capitola Mall 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 ommander: Ronals Petty. For more information, call (831) 475-9804

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 831-688-3356. 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.

Dated Events

Saturday, January 28 Capitola Church to Host County-Wide Men's Breakfast

8:30 am, Shorelife Community Church in Capitola uests will be joined by speaker Jim Stump, Founder & President of Sports Challenge International and sports mentor at Stanford University. Other guests will include several cardinal student-athletes, including members of the Stanford Football Team. $5 per person for breakfast. Tickets available thru Jan. 25th, call (831) 462-7490

Wednesday February 1

Open House: Good Shepherd Catholic School

5:30-7:30pm, 2727 Mattison Lane, SC our the school, visit classrooms, view the all-school art exhibit in the gym, and ask questions of the Good Shepherd faculty and parents. Good Shepherd Catholic School offers affordable Catholic education in preschool through 8th grade. Financial assistance is available. To learn more, visit wwwgsschool, or call (831) 476-4000

Saturday February 4 Intro To Svaroopa® Yoga

9 – 10:30 am, Aptos Yoga, 783 Rio Del Mar Blvd, Ste 23B, Aptos. 688-1019 xperience how Svaroopa® Yoga works in your body at an introductory class – FREE with no obligations. Supported by blankets, you’ll relax into poses that release deep tensions in your spine. This unique form of yoga quiets your mind, reduces pain, and accelerates injury recovery. For more information and registration, call 688-1019 or email chudala@aptosyoga.org. www.aptosyoga.org. n

Intriguing changes are happening quite subtly. Your ruler Neptune, slips into your sign and a shift in your attitudes and beliefs is likely. You may be a little lethargic and not at all competitive or motivated but this is fine. You have a way of having your finger on the pulse and can easily tune into the mood of the moment. You have an intuitive link to others which could be the start of something very important. The Sun moves into Pisces on the 19th and this is the start of a new phase for you. In the meantime, set your intentions and and also your boundaries.

Pisces (Feb. 19-Mar. 20)

Announcements

Thursdays thru February 9

Learn to Square Dance with the Lucky Steppers

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

Fridays

Ageless Art Project

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 (starting February 6th), 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

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

6:30 pm, German-American Hall, 230 Plymouth St. Santa Cruz he Lucky Steppers invite you to learn to square dance! Classes are held every thursday night. Couples are welcome. Call (831) 722-1131 for more information.

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.

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First Fridays of each month

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.)

First Friday Art Tour

Every other Friday

Shakespeare Club of Santa Cruz

10:30-12:30 pm, First Congregational Church, 900 High St. Santa Cruz, Next: January 27 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 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

Wednesdays

Peninsula Banjo Band

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

Friday January 27 Saturday January 28 Love as Activism: The Revolutionary use of Soul Force

Friday: 7:00 pm- 9:30 pm, Saturday 9:00 am - 5:00pm ev. Deborah Johnson and Andrew Harvey will present the key principles of Love as Activism. The event will also include music by

the Inner Light Choir. Organic lunch available for $10

Friday January 27 thru Sunday January 29 Frank Duncan Presents: Dance Synergy

Friday & Saturday: 6:30 and 8:30, Sunday: 2:30, Dance Synergy 9055 Soquel Dr. Aptos rank Duncan is putting on another fun and upbeat show! Bruce Hall is coming from Los Angeles to partner with Duncan in singing and dancing roles while he will be accompanied on piano by Dashiel Reed. Performances will be held in Duncan's Dance Synergy Studio: A 40-seat intimate setting. Tickets are $30 and will include cheese, cracker, and wine. To learn more, visit www.dancesynergy.com or call (831) 359-1630

Saturday, January 28 Awakening the Dreamer: Changing the Dream Symposium

1:00pm-5:00pm Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of SC County, 6401 Freedom Blvd. Aptos his is a workshop which explores new ways of seeing the big sustainability, spiritual, and social justice opportunities and challenges of our time. This workshop will include videos from innovative leaders on topics ranging from the planet's dwindling bio diversity to growing economic disparities, as well as lively participation in breakout groups. For details and registration, visit www.awakeningthedreamer.com, for more information call (831) 566-8458 There will be a small donation asked for at the door, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

Monday January 30 Free Introductory Meeting for Denise Vivar & Feng Shui Metamorphisis

6:00-7:00pm, Le Salon Santa Cruz, 402 Ingalls St. Santa Cruz his is a free introduction to the Feng Shui workshop. In the workshop participants will focus on the internal environment and move outward. Discussions and exercises on

topics such as body esteem, self-knowledge and relationship issues, as addressed by leading psychologists and spiritual teachers, will be followed with feng shui assignments to support the practice. The workshop series will begin the next week. For more information, contact Denise at davivar@gmail.com

Saturday February 4

Play Day in the Arts: Just Making Boxes

10:00-1:00pm, Downtown Felton ust Making Boxes is about using recycled materials and making one-of-a-kind boxes. This class is designed for professional women who wish to take a break & have a play day. Great time for Valentine's Day gifts. $45, includes boxes and materials. Call Janet: 831-335-0553 or email jwmarketingad@aol.com

Saturday February 4 Sunday February 5 Building Blocks: Winds and Piano in Combination

Saturday: 8:00pm, Sunday: 3:00pm Christ Lutheran church 10707 Soquel Dr. Aptos he audience will hear compositions from the late 19th and 20th centuries featuring delightful and diverse combinations of these melodic instruments directed by oboist Peter Lemberg, with Jeffrey Gallagher. Tickets are available for 1/2 hour before the performance, and at Santacruztickets.com.. For more information, call (831) 425-3149 or e mail m@scchamberplayers.org

Saturday February 11

Aptos Highschool's Zumbathon

11:00am-1:00pm, Aptos High Gym ow's your new year's resolution to get fit going? Need motivation? Want to have some fun? Well ditch the workout and join the PARTY! Don't miss the fun workout and dancing with friends. Support the school and save our programs. $10 entry fee. All proceeds go to support and sustain vital school programs & provide classroom supplies. n

It's time to change the rules a little and do something different. You are encouraged to be self expressive and allow your differences to shine, rather than trying to conform to what others expect from you. Initially, fantastic chemistry makes a relationship sizzle, and you have plans for a weekend away and a chance to get to know someone. Venus enters your sign on the 8th and you can look forward to a period of greater cooperation and a willingness from others to go with your ideas. After the 19th, you are a little more spiritual and reflective.

Aries (March 21-April 20)

Changes in your working life maybe something to do with your recent plans, or you find that you are having these disruptions forced on you. See this as a starting point for a new way of being. Perhaps ideas and dreams have been on the back burner while you attend to more practical concerns around money, but this could change this month. Jupiter is helpful in your sign and encourages growth and making the best of what you have. As such you are amazingly resourceful.

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

At last, you see your way forward, and while you have felt the situation hasn't been quite right previously, helpful influences ensure that you are on the right track. Sometimes you need confirmation this is so. Everything happens at the time it needs to although you have been justifiably impatient. You could be signing up for a course or learning new skills, which are more in line with what you really enjoy rather than what you are obliged to do. After the 19th, check out opportunities around work and see how circumstances conspire to put you in the spotlight.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

You instinctively feel that this is turning out to e a year of change and as such you are in the process of a leaving a situation but you will soon enter a new one. This could be around a relationship, or your working life, or simply you could be ditching outworn beliefs that no longer serve you. Welcome what is coming as it shows that you are on the right path. Take note of the Full Moon on the 7th as this falls in your chart area of finances, and what you do to earn a living. Working for yourself is becoming more of a possibility.

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

This is an important month for you Leo, as you and your special other take steps to deepen your relationship. The Sun in your opposite sign can give you clues about who you are and how others see you and you must take credit for how special you are, and what a difference you make. You know everyone needs to be appreciated, and you could do with a little more than you have been getting! The Full Moon on the 7th is your time to shine and brings matters to a head. After the 19th a shift in energy results in an important decision and a new way forward.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 23)

You feel at home this month, Virgo, and see that the world seems to be on the same wavelength as you, or much of it is. Your ruler, Mercury, joins the Sun in Aquarius — emotionally you are cool headed and practical, and can make sound judgments, but it always pays to do things a little differently with new information. Leading a healthy lifestyle is preferable as prevention is better than cure, so by practicing everything in moderation you will avoid your body and mind getting too stressed.

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sep. 22)

You cannot help learning just by watching, listening and absorbing what is going on around you. Some lessons take longer than others, and you may need more practice but even so, when you get chance to look back you see how far you have come. This month continues to offer you hope and opportunities and you see things in a wider context. The Aquarian Sun is inclusive of everyone, a great leveller and your natural fair mindedness has a chance to shine and put right what is necessary. Venus enters your opposite sign on the 8th, enhancing your relationships.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 23)

This month, Neptune, the most spiritual plenty enters Pisces. This is harmonious with your sign and you will find that relationships and situations that are guided by emotion play out much more than those based on logic. How you feel is more important than what you do and your goal needs to be find a peaceful heart and mind. Be authentic in what you do and how you express yourself, particularly around mid month. Take nothing for granted and work with what you are naturally good at.

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

You are travelling more than usual and there are plenty of people you want to see. Your plans are getting off the ground but you are waiting for some important information. Practical matters are being attended to and this is a great time to start an early spring clean or change your environment. Lend a helping hand to those who are just starting out. Creating better circumstances by taking on board good advice from experts and those who have had experience. Let your ambitions start to take shape.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

You are beginning to see your plans take shape and this month you are focusing on your finances. It may be necessary to budget a little or invest wisely, but you are also keen to help out someone who could do with a bit of good luck. Your common sense approach can give clear guidance to others which is welcome and useful. Have you ever thought of writing a book? If this is one of your recent ideas, it's worth pursuing. You add a new string to your bow through an unexpected opportunity.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20)

This month Neptune leaves your sign, and the fog clears. Perhaps this new clarity will motivate you to make the changes you know you must, if you are to see the progress you want. Mercury in your sign is also helping you to formulate plans, and play around with fresh ideas. It is as though you are looking for something but haven't yet found it. This makes more sense towards the end of the month when you get tangible results of just starting with a theory. Relationships improve with a feeling of cooperation rather than confrontation. ••• Find Out More www.AnnabelBurton.tv

Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb. 18)

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / February 2012 / 29

CommunityNews From Watsonville to Santa Cruz Free estimates for new roofs, reroofs, repairs, or just some advice!

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TO ADVERTISE IN THE BUSINESS GUIDE SECTION

call our offices 831.688.7549 30 / February 2012 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Treasure Hunting through Attic

Historian Says Pan the Paperwork for Gold

rom PBS’ “Antiques Roadshow” to A&E’s “Storage Wars,” reality TV has capitalized on our fascination with discovering treasure in household junk. It happened to historian Michael Mendoza, whose patient culling through boxes of old papers was rewarded when he found a Civil War veteran’s personal account of his experiences. The 17-page letter was so rich in detail, Mendoza (www.dentedcanenterprises.com) used it as the basis of his first novel, “Glorious Reality of War.” Mendoza owned an antiques store in 1997 when 95-year-old Alice Bowersock died in San Diego, Calif., he says. He acquired her estate: furniture, knickknacks, and stacks of boxes full of photographs, insurance policies and letters. Most people, Mendoza notes, might trash the papers right off the bat. “Don’t,” he says. “Toss or sell the knickknacks, and keep the paper. It can be invaluable.” Collectors value ephemera Michael Mendoza because such paper records are unique and irreplaceable, he says, so he pored through the boxes page by page, finding birth and death records, paintings and prints, old books. “And then I saw the letter – a documented firsthand experience of the Civil War. It was written in 1925, typed on 8½-by-14-inch paper,” Mendoza says. “Reading it, I got a real good sense of who (the writer) was.” Charles Wesley Rickard was 64 when he wrote the letter to his daughter, Alice, who had asked him to write about his war experience. He was a 15-year-old Iowa farm boy, he wrote, when “a great desire came over me to go to the war. My parents were loathe to give their consent, and so I made life miserable for them until they finally gave in.” In 1862, he enlisted as a Union fifer because he was too young to serve as a private. “I had never seen a fife before,” Rickard wrote. “But I

could use a rifle, and I was bound to go as something.” When the fighting began, he was in the thick of it. Three years later and all of 18 years old, he remembers noting how very young the new replacement troops looked. Mendoza kept Rickard’s letter and sold off some of the memorabilia. “I knew the value was more in presenting it as a historical fiction novel,” he says. Finding inspiration for a novel may not equate to striking it rich for everyone, but people willing to invest time in sorting through old family papers stand to profit, Mendoza says. “Many things are valuable on their own, like first editions of classic books,” he says. “But don’t forget the family records. Even if you’re not into genealogy, you should save those, because once you throw them away, they’re lost to the next generation.” Mendoza offers these tips for dealing with old paperwork: • Don’t throw it away simply because it’s damaged. Mendoza found a first-edition copy of “Gone with the Wind” that was so waterlogged, it was destroyed. “I sold it for $80,” he says, “and that was cheap.”

• Put together items on the same topic to improve chances of selling to collectors. Collectors like to buy in lots, Mendoza notes. They’d rather have a whole bunch of things than just one. Among Alice Bowersock’s belongings, Mendoza found photographs and documents from her father’s time helping to build the Panama Canal. Mendoza pulled all the canal material together and sold it to a collector. • Store papers in an open zipper bag in a dry place. If the paper is very valuable, invest in bags designed for that purpose. Otherwise, zipper baggies from the grocery store do fine. Don’t seal them, though, because if there’s no air circulation, the paper might stick to the plastic. • Digitize everything. Scanning your documents and photographs allows you to study them without damaging them. For the record – Mendoza is still going through Alice Bowersock’s boxes. n Michael Mendoza holds a master’s degree in American history and is an adjunct instructor for Central Texas College. He lives in Santee, Calif., and plans a sequel to “Glorious Reality of War.”

“Many things are valuable on their own, like first editions of classic books. But don’t forget the family records. Even if you’re not into genealogy, you should save those, because once you throw them away, they’re lost to the next — Michael Mendoza generation.”

SPCA Featured Pet

Avril Is So Uncomplicated

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ne cold winter day this adorable four-month-old Chihuahua mix tiptoed out of the bushes and crawled into the arms of a woman waiting at a bus stop for her son. As they began the short trek home, the little black dog followed them to their doorstep, begging not to be left behind. They kept her overnight and brought her to an overcrowded shelter the next day. Little Avril waited for her owners to come get her but day after day … but no one came. Now she patiently yet eagerly waits at the Santa Cruz SPCA for something very simple and uncomplicated…a new home. Avril is as sweet as sweet comes. She provides excellent snuggles and kisses and seems to thoroughly enjoy everyone she meets. Her tail wags at the sight of a person and she is very responsive to voice. Avril is about eight pounds and although she is young, she is not super high energy and would do fine in a smaller house with a few walks a day. She would also do great as a companion to another dog but could be the only dog as well. Avril is the type of dog that could probably fit into most any loving home whether there are kids, cats, or other dogs. She simply wants someone to love and care for her. In return, she will give back her heart, her love, her kisses and her snuggles. If Avril sounds like a good fit for you, come and see how uncomplicated this girl really is! 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 Avril and her 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

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IRS Free File: Do Your Federal Taxes for Free WASHINGTON — More than 33 million returns have been filed through IRS Free File since its debut ten years ago. Everyone can use Free File using either the brand-name software offered by IRS’ commercial partners or the online fillable forms. Individuals or families with 2011 adjusted gross incomes of $57,000 or less can use Free File software. Free File Fillable Forms, the electronic version of IRS paper forms, has no income restrictions. “Free File can save you time and money. You can prepare and e-file your tax return at no charge. And, the software helps you find the tax breaks you are due,” said Diane Fox, director, Free File program. “Free File helps make taxes less taxing.” Free File software is a product of a public-private partnership between the IRS and the Free File Alliance, LLC. The Alliance is a consortium of approximately 20 tax software providers who make versions of their free-file products available exclusively at www.irs.gov/freefile. All Free File members must meet certain security requirements and use the latest in encryption technology to protect taxpayers’ information. Seventy percent of taxpayers – 100 million people - are eligible for Free File software. It’s perfect for first-time filers, families looking to save money or older Americans adept at using the Internet. People with an adjusted gross income of $57,000 or less are eligible for at least one software product. Each of the Free File software providers sets their own eligibility requirements, usually based on qualifiers such as income, state residency, age or military status. The easiest way to locate a software provider is to use the online “get help” tool at www.irs.gov/freefile that, with a little of a taxpayer’s information such as income, age and state residency, can identify matching free-file products. Or, taxpayers can review all providers and their offers. Some software providers also offer state income tax preparation free or for a fee.

Also, the IRS is working with select volunteer tax sites such as Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly. There are 200 locations nationwide that have set up Free File kiosks where taxpayers can use computers to prepare their own returns with Free File. For taxpayers whose incomes are more than $57,000, there’s Free File Fillable Forms, available only at the IRS website. This program is best for taxpayers experienced in preparing their own federal tax returns. For people who prefer doing their taxes the old fashioned way – by paper – this is an electronic alternative. Free File Fillable Forms performs some math calculations and provides links to some IRS publications. It does not use the familiar question-and-answer format used by software. Taxpayers can e-file the forms free. It also does not support state income tax returns. Taxpayers must access the free-file products through IRS.gov or authorized kiosks to avoid any charges for preparing or e-filing a federal tax return. Once taxpayers have selected a Free File software product, they will be directed away from IRS.gov to the partner’s site to prepare and e-file their returns. The IRS does not retain any personal information from the taxpayers. The IRS also encourages businesses, state and local governments, charities and churches to inform their employees, clients and customers about Free File. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / February 2012 / 31