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Shopping Search Leads to New Business
Ian McHenry was looking for a Christmas gift for his daughter at the last minute. Amazon, the mega online retailer, had it but couldn’t deliver it in time. He looked locally and found it at locally owned Wonderland Toys in Soquel. Full Story page 6
15 Die of COVID-19 Full Story page 19
Being Grateful for Food Editor’s Note: This report comes from Second Harvest Food Bank and its food distribution partner agencies. People suffering from the pandemic, its economic effects and the wildfires are finding help from an
amazing team of support agencies delivering food to the needy. Here are some uplifting personal anecdotes from people at just some of our 100+ partner agencies working hard to deliver the Second Harvest. ... continues on page 4
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The leaders of the Mid-County Senior Center, shuttered since mid-March due to COVID-19, are raising money in hopes of reopening. Full Story page 5
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No. 11
Volume 25
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Table of Contents
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Cover Being Grateful for Food 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 13 14 15 16 17 19 20 21 22 28
Community News Mid-County Senior Center Raising Money to Reopen, By Jondi Gumz Shopping Search Leads to New Business: Can InStock.Org Bite Into Amazon Prime?, By Jondi Gumz Students Create ‘Friendly Guide’ to State Ballot Propositions, By Leigh Ann Clifton Leopold and Koenig: Last Questions • State of the Region: Dec. 2 • County to Get $700,000 Housing Grant • Library Offers Halloween Storytime • Jobs in Santa Cruz County: Sept. 2020 • Halloween Car Cruise in Capitola Capitola City Council Candidates Q&A Leopold, Koenig on Wildfires, Jobs, Housing and Internet New Bohemia Brewing Pivots To Stay Open, By Jondi Gumz County Superior Court Offers Text Reminders Her Job is Helping Low-Level Offenders Get Jobs Holiday Food & Fund Drive Kickoff Be The Difference Awards Gala Reinvented Calmness and Wellness Despite COVID-19, By Jondi Gumz 15 Die of COVID-19 at Watsonville Post Acute, By Jondi Gumz Capitola City Council Candidates Issues Another Record Median Home Price, By Jondi Gumz • Senior Outreach Offers New Support Groups New FEMA Aid Deadline is Nov. 23 Bigger Bookstore at Capitola Mall Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – From the Battle We Emerge Triumphant, By Risa D’Angeles
24 26 29 30
Featured Columnists Caveats To Hiring Family, By Ron Kustek Local Business Perspective on SqCWD, By Rebecca Gold Rubin COVID-19 Impacts Domestic Violence Survivors, By Delphine Burns Partnering with Habitat for Humanity on Accessory Dwelling Units, By Zach Friend, Second District Supervisor 31 Clean Gutters As Rainy Season Begins, By Tony Tomeo
SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 31 – On the Runway: Fifi O’hara, Miss Fame, and Ru Paul
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COVER STORY Patrice Edwards Jondi Gumz
publisher editor
contributing writers Camisa Composti, Jondi Gumz, Leigh Ann Clifton, Risa D’Angeles, Ron Kustek, Rebecca Gold Rubin, Delphine Burns, Zach Friend, Tony Tomeo layout Michael Oppenheimer, Jim Johnson graphic artists Michael Oppenheimer, Jim Johnson photography Michael Oppenheimer, Jim Johnson, Brad King website Michael Oppenheimer, Camisa Composti production coordinator Camisa Composti advertising sales Don Beaumont, Teri Huckobey, Brooke Valentine office coordinator Cathe Race distribution Bill Pooley, James Hudson
“Second Harvest” from page 1 Robin Spurlock, at Twin Lakes Church People’s Pantry in Aptos, shared reports from two individuals. One said, “I just lost my job teaching, and am now supplementing my pantry with food from the church. Thanks to all the volunteers, we have wonderfully packed baskets.” Another said, “I am a senior and on a fixed income. Being able to receive food from People’s Pantry every week is a huge Robin Spurlock blessing. Thank you for providing fresh produce and dry goods every week.” Paul Machlis, pantry manager at Community Bridges Mountain Community Resources in Felton, said, “Second Harvest supplies about 98% of our food, so we have been completely dependent on its ability to provide food to us. Agencies like ours (pantries, soup kitchens, etc.) are helpful to their commu-
Times Publishing Group, Inc. 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 The Times Publishing Group, Inc., publishers of the Aptos Times, a bi-monthly publication, the Capitola Times and Scotts Valley Times, each printed monthly, Coastal Weddings Magazine, Coastal Home and Garden Magazine, Aptos’ Fourth of July Parade Official Program Guide and Capitola’s Begonia Festival Official Program Guide, is owned by Patrice Edwards. Entire contents ©2020. 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 Calendar Listings: www.tpgonlinedaily.com Graphics Department: graphics@cyber-times.com Billing Inquiries: cathe@cyber-times.com Classified Sales: sales@cyber-times.com Production: production@cyber-times.com CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE AT: www.tpgonlinedaily.com mission statement We at the Times Publishing Group, Inc. are dedicated to providing a voice for the individuals and organizations in our community while highlighting the outstanding accomplishments of our local businesses. We seek to promote healthy family values through our coverage of youth activities, school news, senior events, community groups and entertainment 4 / November 2020 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
nities on little or no money, as long as we have willing volunteers and some minimal supplies and space. In other words, money donated to the food bank makes use of community organizations and volunteers really effectively.” He added, “Even with drive-through, our clients share how they are doing. One family last week (three adults, two children) got one stimulus check, no unemployment insurance, and none of the adults has a job. They are extremely grateful for the food. Other people have said similar things — that without the pantry they would be having trouble feeding themselves. Machlis also shared this story: “We had a woman who came regularly to our pantry for her family of four. Both she and her husband were out of work, the husband struggled with alcohol, and the teenage daughter was presenting problems. Each week she thanked us for helping her keep the family afloat until things turned around. Which they did — both adults eventually found jobs, the daughter got through a bad stage, they kept the
house — and one day she proudly arrived with a donation of $20 for the weekly pantry. They don’t need assistance these days, but when we see her around town, she always takes a moment to say that without Mountain Community Resources, they wouldn’t have made it.” Ashley Bridges, director of Pajaro Valley Loaves & Fishes in Watsonville, shared comments from two people who came in. One said, “I really like how you guys give fresh produce, rather than just canned items. You are so quick to hand out groceries.” The other said, “Words don’t do justice to what your help and care have given me! May God bless you and your families for your service! Thank You!” And a volunteer told Bridges, “I love volunteering at Loaves & Fishes. Everyone is so nice. When I’m here I feel like I am part of a family that really cares about each other.” Al Richardson, director of food operations at Holy Cross Church in Santa Cruz, said, “We could not operate without Second Harvest. The food bank has provided the increase we need to serve our increase in population, which is more than four times as many people today. We have normally seen 300 (food recipients) now 1200+.” He added, “Normally clients are people who hold down jobs but can’t afford it because of rent and cost of living. Totally different situation today for people who were self-sufficient, but can no longer do it. Huge increase is due to people being out of work. “ There are hundreds of similar stories from all around Santa Cruz County. We will capture more of those for future articles. n ••• Cover Photo: Food distribution by Second Harvest Food Bank at Mountain Community Resources in Felton.
Mid-County Senior Center Raising Money to Reopen
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COMMUNITY NEWS
By Jondi Gumz
he leaders of the Mid-County Senior Center, shuttered since mid-March due to COVID-19, are raising money in hopes of reopening. The senior center, a home away from home for 495 members, funded operations from facility rentals and Friday night dances, but it’s had no income for seven months. “It’s a wonderful place,” said Mary Reed, the treasurer, who’s been on the board since 2004. ”It’s wonderful to have a place to go, a chance to meet friends.” Some of the groups that rented the place, such as the Early Risers Alcoholics Anonymous, which has 90 members, would like to return. “We haven’t been able to figure out all details,” Reed said. A fundraising letter went out in late August, asking for donations.
“To date we have raised $20,000, which is 45% of our goal of $45,000,” she said. The goal represents three months of operating expenses, such as liability insurance, $8,000, garbage pickup, $500 a month, a part-time coordinator working 25 hours a week, custodial time, PG&E bills, water bills, repairs of the aging refrigerator.
A Go FundMe campaign was launched at www.gofundme.com/f/helping-midcounty-senior-center-mcsc-survive. Older residents have been isolating at home to avoid the contagious coronavirus, an issue that came up during the City Council candidate forum in October, but there were no easy solutions. Reed, who retired from teaching social science and Spanish at Aptos Junior High, doesn’t want to turn to the city for help – “they’ve got enough on their plate,” she said. The senior center provided a place for bridge players, bingo aficiondos, Choraliers, a quilting group, a dog training group, memorials, Project Scout to help people prepare their tax returns, and Narcotics Anonymous, but all that indoor activity has stopped. The idea of offering outdoor exercise
Mary Reed, treasurer of the Mid-County Senior Center, with garden manager Curt Jewell.
has been discussed “but it doesn’t generate much income,” Reed said. Gardeners can come and tend their plots at the outdoor garden, managed by Curt Jewell, and the Lavender Ladies have hosted fundraising sales outside in the parking lot. “Senior Center” page 9
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Shopping Search Leads to New Business
I
By Jondi Gumz
Can InStock.Org Bite Into Amazon Prime?
an McHenry was looking for a Christmas gift for his daughter at the last minute. Amazon, the mega online retailer, had it but couldn’t deliver it in time. He looked locally and found it at locally owned Wonderland Toys in Soquel. That experience inspired his new startup, InStock.org, which aims to help shoppers find any product in stock at nearby stores. There’s no charge to list products,
and the owners of Wonderland Toys, Hannah Stubblefield and Theresa Shellen, signed up. So has Fybr Bamboo, Berdel’s, Toque Blanc, and the Homeless Garden Project, all in Ian McHenry downtown Santa Cruz, and the MiniMint baby store in Pleasure Point.
MISSING OPEN STUDIOS? (Us, too!)
presents
McHenry is working with the Downtown Association in Santa Cruz to get more stores on board. When he presented his startup to members of Santa Cruz Works at a virtual meetup, Amanda Rotella, project manager for the city of Santa Cruz Economic Development Office, was impressed. “I’m super-psyched about this,” she said. “This is a really cool tool.” McHenry, 37, of Aptos, is eager for more retailers to get on board. “We would love to have 200 (stores),” he said. “We’re small — two employees
— we haven’t had a chance to chat with everyone.” Getting your products online is timeconsuming, the Wonderland Toy staff will agree. You need a picture, a title, and a description — and most stores have 2,000 or more products. But if the store has a point-of-sale system where customers pays for their purchase, getting all that inventory into InStock.Org takes less than five minutes, according to McHenry. “InStock.org” page 7
V ISUAL ArTS
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A cuRAted diRectoRy oF SAntA cRuz county viSuAl ARtiStS
Art on Your Schedule Any Time
Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz
All Year Long
Theresa Shellen (from left) and Hannah Stubblefield, owners of Wonderland Toys, have signed up for Ian McHenry’s new venture, InStock.org.
Find your favorite artists and discover new ones! Return often for updates.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Students Create ‘Friendly Guide’ to State Ballot Propositions
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By Leigh Ann Clifton
n every election, California citizens are challenged with understanding and voting on an array of state ballot measures. A dozen propositions are included in the upcoming election, and Mount Madonna School eleventh grade students researched the measures and created a “Friendly Guide to California’s Ballot Propositions” to share what they learned. Their assignment was simple: to make sense of the ballot measure assigned; to describe what the measure is all about in user-friendly language; to share who is in favor of the measure and who opposes it; and to present their new-found knowledge to their classmates. “After focusing on developing the skills necessary to thoughtfully take in media, and recognizing the various propaganda and persuasion techniques employed by all sides, each student was tasked with becoming the resident ‘expert’ on one of the 12 propositions on the ballot,” explained social studies teacher Dan Gurska. The assignment was part of Gurska’s U.S. Government curriculum. “Every election, my partner and I do our homework on all of the propositions,” said Gurska. “As you well know, it is hard making sense of them sometimes! I decided to create a unit for my students that mirrored the work that we do at home in order to be informed voters.” “I focused on Proposition 21, about
“InStock.org” from page 6 “Click products, click all, click export — simple,” he said. The problem is – even though people are doing more shopping online because of COVID-19, half of the existing stores don’t have e-commerce capability, where you can click and buy. For bargain shoppers, InStock.org has a Chrome extension with a popup feature that shows where you can find the product you’re looking for and the price. McHenry said shoppers think they get the best deal on Amazon, but he’s found 90 percent of products the same price or cheaper at local stores. One example is diapers, where he said Target often has the best price. “Amazon does deep discounts on loss leaders like a grocery store,” he said.
expanding rent control in California,” shared junior Kayla Goldstein. “I didn’t understand what the proposition meant when I started researching, and it’s still hard to form an opinion, because it doesn’t apply to me as a minor. I do know that when I am of voting age, I will most certainly do research on all of the propositions up for vote.” Classmate Grace Timan researched Proposition 20, which would restrict parole for certain offenses currently considered to be non-violent; and authorize felony sentences for certain offenses currently treated only as misdemeanors. “For my research, I used the voter guide, considered current correctional programs, and looked into outside opinions from sources such as the Los Angeles Times and California proposition guides,” shared Timan. “The hardest part of this
project was keeping my own opinion out of my writing. From the beginning I was very anti-Prop 20, and writing about it in an unbiased way was challenging.” Class parents voiced support for having their student participate in such a relevant and meaningful project. “It was great to be able to sit down with my son and talk about the propositions as I was filling out my ballot,” said parent Robyn Pearson. “Alyssa told us all about it,” said parent Linda Manzur. “It was the first time she was actually excited about politics. I think it forced her to put herself in the shoes of all stakeholders and feel the high level of responsibility – and discomfort – of voters who are collectively making lifealtering decisions for others. You can view the students’ “Friendly Guide to California’s Ballot Propositions”
at www.MountMadonnaSchool.org Gurska said he initiated the project in the hope that students would better understand how to navigate the complexities surrounding ballot measures. “Unsurprisingly, the students rose to the occasion and provided me with way more context and information than I would have been able to cultivate doing my homework alone,” Gurska said. “Now, with the Google Slides presentation of their work, created and edited by students Alyssa Manzur and Amirah Alexander, more people will have the opportunity to learn from their research.” “I focused on California Proposition 23, which would establish state requirements for kidney dialysis clinics,” said student Alyssa Manzur. “For my research, I used an online pdf version of the California ballot proposition pamphlet that is mailed to California residents and two websites, Yes on Prop 23 and No on Prop 23. She added, “While I didn’t come across any major challenges when researching, it was slightly difficult to decipher whether or not my sources were biased. I wanted to get the most accurate, unbiased information when putting my presentation together. My own opinion on Prop 23 definitely changed after researching it. It is important to be educated on ballot propositions in order to be fully prepared to vote.” n
“A majority of things are typically the same price.” For the future, he’s thinking of a monthly subscription fee paid by shoppers to bring in revenue. Santa Cruz summers McHenry, whose grandfather was the first chancellor at UC Santa Cruz, grew up in Southern California where his father was a professor. He spent summers and holidays in Santa Cruz, got his bachelor’s degree at Princeton, then went to San Francisco to work in tech. After working on dynamic pricing for airlines — this is why airfares are always changing — he and a co-founder started a company, Beyond Pricing, in 2013 to help vacation rental owners make more money. He said the company generated tens
of millions in revenue and raised $42 million from investors led by Bessemer Venture Group. He had nearly 70 employees. On the personal side, it was challenging. He was commuting from San Jose, where his wife was from, and not spending much time with his two daughters, one being a newborn. So he left the company in the hands of his co-founder, not knowing what he would do – until Wonderland Toys showed him the way. This summer, he got his idea into Y Combinator, the prestigious Silicon Valley accelerator program – the second Santa Cruz company to participate – and getting $125,000 in funding to start. “I’m a sole founder this time,” he said. “I wanted to have another peer.” What he wants to create is “a local version of Amazon Prime, where you don’t
have to think about shipping.” Stripe, the downtown Santa Cruz, does free local delivery but most stores can’t do it on their own, he said. Stores working together can bunch deliveries and get the goods to the shopper faster because the products are in stock locally, not coming from out of the county. Shopping locally means sales tax revenue stays here and benefits local governments. “The average person spends $1,200 a year on Amazon, and 300,000 people live in Santa Cruz County — that’s more than $30 million,” he said. With momentum in Santa Cruz County, McHenry set sights on his next territory, Willow Glen and Los Gatos, where he “soft-launched” two weeks ago. And he’s hiring a data engineer and an associate to work on email and special marketing. n
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2020 / 7
COMMUNITY NEWS
Leopold and Koenig: Last Questions T his year’s election is Nov. 3. The Capitola-Soquel Times asked the candidates for First District county supervisor, three-term incumbent John Leopold and challenger Manu Koenig, three questions. Here are their answers.
John Leopold
What are the three most pressing issues you would address in the next four years? What are your solutions? And has COVID-19 or anything else shifted your priorities? Explain. ur county is currently responding to a number of crises. As your Supervisor, I have used my experience to help our community navigate, survive, and thrive now and into the future. More than ever, leadership matters. Our community will still be living through the COVID-19 pandemic when the next supervisorial term starts. We flattened the curve early by listening to public health experts, but the road ahead is challenging. With my public health background and 12 years on the Board, I drafted the County’s eviction moratorium, created a $1 million
O
rent assistance fund, rewrote our County Code to allow businesses to move outdoors, and supported a partnership with UC Santa Cruz to expand testing capacity. Depending on John Leopold who is elected President, the County may need to rely on reserves the Board has thoughtfully built in order to help maintain critical public services over the next few years. We need to leverage those resources to ensure that we have the public health tools available for our community and that we can continue to provide resources to local residents and businesses as they strive to weather this pandemic. As we continue to confront the pandemic, we must also continue to plan and prepare for a far greater crisis – climate change. The recent fires may be a preview of what we will face with extreme weather events and their devastating impacts. Within days of the start of the CZU
Lightning Complex fire, I was in contact with supervisors from other counties whose communities had experienced great losses in housing and infrastructure in recent wildfires. The lessons Manu Koenig they learned have informed our county’s response. We have made changes to our permitting process and committed resources to help expedite the rebuilding process for those who have lost their homes. As we recover from these fires, we need to redouble our efforts to prevent additional wildfires by protecting evacuation routes through the undergrounding of utility poles. Increasing areas with shaded fuel breaks to reduce the spread of fires will be critical. We must also ensure that our local fire agencies have the resources they need to prevent wildfires and the necessary equipment to fight wildfires as they arise. It is not just fires we need to worry
about. Sea level rise could threaten the community at the same time. Our coastal way of life, critical infrastructure, and homes are threatened by the increasingly accurate predictions about sea level rise. I have been working with our staff, colleagues from around the state, and the Coastal Commission on a set of innovative strategies to address the threat and not just simply pretend that we can hold back Mother Nature forever. Our Board recently adopted a set of policies that recognize our coastal geology, take into account our voterapproved land use policies, and prepare our county to deal with the impacts of sea level rise. This approach promotes good use of science, creates flexibility in our response, and sets a time horizon of 20 years so we can reconfigure our policies based on the latest science. In my next term, I will continue working to help our county be a leader in addressing the impacts of climate change and ensure that our policies are enacted faithfully. “District 1” page 10
COMMUNITY BRIEFS State of the Region: Dec. 2 onterey Bay Economic Partnership will host its 6th Annual State of the Region event on Dec. 2 — and it will be virtual. Kate Roberts, the executive director, promises “an action-packed line-up” covering a range of topics such as getting an effective COVID-19 vaccine, wildfire mitigation, and investing in local economic recovery. Tickets are $59 per person. Early bird pricing is available through Oct. 31. RSVP: https://mbep.biz/ ••• County to Get $700,000 Housing Grant n Oct. 23, U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley) announced a $700,000 federal grant will be allocated to Santa Cruz County to help increase access to affordable housing opportunities. The county will receive a grant from HOME Investment Partnership Program, which is administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Jimmy Panetta Development. HOME is the largest federal block grant to state and local governments designed to increase affordable housing opportunities.
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The funds will be used for down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers and tenant-based rental assistance to make rental housing more affordable. “We have endured a bruising pandemic and devastating wildfires on the Central Coast, which have compounded our local affordable housing crisis,” said Panetta. “This federal grant coming in to our community will help ease the pressure on Santa Cruz County families by providing them with a path to secure some form of housing. I’m proud to play my part during these health, environmental, and housing crises by getting the federal government to play its part to help our communities on the Central Coast.” Panetta has helped secure $76 million in housing funds for the Central Coast since entering Congress, including $14 million in CARES Act housing funding for those affected by the pandemic. ••• Library Offers Halloween Storytime he Santa Cruz Public Libraries invite you to celebrate Halloween with spooktacular stories, songs, and rhymes on Zoom with librarian Jackie at 4 p.m. Friday Oct. 30. For the kids, Halloween mask craft kit will be available at any curbside branch starting on Oct. 23 (while supplies last). Costumes are not necessary,
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8 / November 2020 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
but are encouraged. Register at bit.ly/ SCPL-Spooky. ••• Jobs in Santa Cruz County: Sept. 2020 Change from Industry Sept. 2020 Last Year Leisure & hospitality 11,600 Down 2,900 Private education & health 15,300 Down 2,400 Trade & transportation 15,600 Down 1,000 Business & professional services 10,200 Down 800 Manufacturing 6,400 Down 800 Government 19,100 Down 3,100 Financial 3,400 Down 100 Information 500 Down 100 Logging & construction 4,700 No change Other services 4,300 Down 1,000 ••• Nonfarm 91,100 Down 12,200 Farm 4,500 Down 6,900 Total 95,600 Down 19,100 ••• Unemployment: 8.1% Change from a year ago Labor force 128,700 Down 9.9% Employed* 118,300 Down 14.8% Unemployed 10,400 Up 121% *Includes out-of-county commuters Source: California Employment Development Department ••• Halloween Car Cruise in Capitola he Halloween parade in Capitola Village isn’t taking place this year due
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Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz
Capitola Mall traditionally hosts trick-or-treaters on Halloween but to avoid spreading COVID-19, a Halloween car cruise is planned this year. to COVID-19, but the Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce is teaming up with Capitola Recreation to put on a Halloween Car Cruise, which will start at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31. Participants will meet in their cars by the former Sears store at the Capitola Mall, head down 38th Avenue, through Capitola Village and return to Jade Street Community Center, where trick-or-treat candy will be providing following health guidelines. Car decorations are encouraged. Participants are asked to register in advance by emailing capitolarecreation@ ci.capitola.ca.us. n
COMMUNITY NEWS
Capitola City Council Candidates Q&A M ayor Kristen Petersen, who helped raise funds for the new library and whose family has lived in Capitola for four generations, wants to serve another four years on the Capitola City Council. Will Little Bear Reising, who was raised in Capitola, put himself through college and went into tech in San Francisco working for IBM, Oracle and Google, has returned, a homeowner, a father and a small business owner concerned about “how COVID-19 is going to affect all of us.” Anthony Rovai, a financial advisor and mortgage broker, has lived in Capitola since 1997 and saw how the city worked when he remodeled a home and built a home. He thinks his skill set would be helpful for the city in the time of COVID-19. Margaux Keiser, a personal trainer and nutrition counselor, has lived in Capitola 13 years. She said COVID-19 ignited her desire to get involved and be part of Capitola’s rebuild post-pandemic. Only two seats are open on the City Council so voters must choose. All four candidates participated in an Oct. 7 forum on Zoom sponsored by the Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce, where they responded to questions posed by Santa Cruz Local. Here is an edited version of their answers: What should the city push for in the redevelopment of the Capitola Mall? Petersen: I am excited about new housing, potentially 300-400 housing units — we need affordable housing — job opportunities, and making 41st Avenue more walkable. We asked Merlone Geier (the mall owner) to come back with plan for a hotel on 41st, which is more appropriate location than Capitola Village. Traffic and water, we’ll be studying.
“Senior Center” from page 5 Volunteers with the nonprofit Grey Bears, organized by Tony Alonzo, visit every Friday morning, providing brown bags of food for those in need. At least 50 people come, “probably more since the virus hit,” Reed said. For many seniors, this place was their social connection, meeting friends at bingo or bridge. The state has placed Santa Cruz County in the Red Tier, which means card rooms can only operate outdoors.
to use Zoom. We do need to identify what is wanted, what is needed.
Kristen Petersen
Will Little Bear Reising
Keiser: We have a big chance to bring in a lot more jobs and some more affordable housing, which has been a big issue in our county… It would be amazing to have outdoor dining and shopping almost like Santana Row (in San Jose), bring in more sales tax, and a hotel to bring in more TOT (room tax) to help with the rebuild of our budget. Having something walkable, maybe people will drive less. Rovai: “The first plan did not represent a good balance of new smart commercial and housing and aesthetics. That property could be the pinnacle of Capitola. If it’s not done right, it could be an absolute disaster. I like the idea of having a hotel there, like Margaux said, we need that revenue… Santana Row comes to mind, shops, then housing or offices. Reising: The concerns that got me here, small business, child care and the arts — Finding a way where we can incorporate easy user experience, outside dining … small business post-COVID, incorporating the arts, musicians to play. Housing is extremely important. Having open-air seating. ~~~ Relative to housing, none of the candidates is a landlord. Petersen, the only renter, indicated she’s willing to rezone single-family zones to allow duplexes and four-plexes. Reising indicated he’s willing to rezone single-family zones to allow duplexes. To entice developers to build more rentals, both Petersen and Reising favored
Anthony Rovai
Margaux Keiser
removing a requirement for 15% affordable units. How would you expand programs for seniors who have been isolated during the pandemic? Rovai: That’s a loaded question — the city doesn’t have the budget to maintain the current streets. Maybe at Jade Street, or the senior center, I don’t know when COVID will allow us to do that, maybe have school kids visit seniors. Petersen (who has a 6-month-old puppy): It is understandable a lot of us are feeling isolated. With the budget (as it is), it’s difficult to answer. The city transitioned some programs to virtual, (started) the out of school time (recreation) program … What do you need, if not virtual classes, what? Reising (who has a 4 1/2 year old): Jade Street (Community Center) rents by the hour, a safe socially distanced experience outside. A locals night, to stimulate local business. Keiser: It’s a tough thing to handle. We have had a lot of budget cuts. There’s less ways to be active and get outside. (Maybe) bring back pen pals, explain how
How to support struggling local business? Keiser: I’m a small business. I had to learn how to navigate… I started hosting donation-based workouts and donated the proceeds to gift card giveaways for Caruso wine bar and Zandra Swimwear in Capitola Village, and promoted them via social media. Make a pact with your family, shop local, no Amazon. Reising: I run two small businesses, it’s about awareness… I’m putting my hot sauce in local stores to drive business, finding ways businesses can help each other. Rovai: What we can do depends on the state. Social media is super important. I used a local printer for my signs. I’ve been helping people budget money as best they can… refinancing a mortgage. Petersen: Five weeks into the pandemic, the Capitola and Wharf Business Improvement Association contacted me, and said we need to hear from you more. The council made outdoor dining happen, waived fees for them. I support continuing it for as long as feasible.
How to fund child care and homework help? Petersen: We have the out-of-schooltime program. I would keep that as long as necessary even past COVID. Before COVID, we started afterschool program pushed by (Vice Mayor) Yvette Brooks. We have money from TOT (hotel room tax). Brooks pushed to waive licensing fees for people who want to open in-home day cares. “City Council” page 12
Could bridge players play outside? Reed doesn’t think they would. The group has 40-some people and playing bridge, you’re sitting so close, she pointed out –“they just won’t come – you might as well move Mount Rushmore.” When might the senior center reopen? “Probably not until March,” Reed said. “Our dilemma is seniors won’t come until there is a vaccine. They’re all frightened.” Even so, she is hopeful the community will support the seniors and make a donation to help the senior center. “I’m an eternal optimist,” she said. n
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2020 / 9
COMMUNITY NEWS
Leopold, Koenig on Wildfires, Jobs, Housing and Internet
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oters in the First District have a choice in the Nov. 3 election. County Supervisor John Leopold touts his leadership and track record during his 12 years in office, including rewriting the county code to allow restaurants to operate outdoors during COVID-19 restrictions. Challenger Manu Koenig says local roads are in terrible shape and homelessness has spread out everywhere so he is running to deliver better results. Both participated in an Oct. 8 candidate forum sponsored by the Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce, where they responded to questions posed by Santa Cruz Local. Here is an edited version of their answers:
“District 1” from page 8 The events of this past year have also shown the pressing need for our community and our country to address the systemic inequities that exist throughout our community and the within our governmental system. In August, in collaboration with our local NAACP chapter, I introduced a resolution to have the County recognize racism as a public health crisis. That action set in motion both an internal evaluation of our policies and programs and committed the County to working with community-based organizations to address inequities in our system. In my next term I will continue to work with BIPOC community leaders about the creation of a new commission that could address anti-racism and economic and social justice in our community in an ongoing and proactive way. Now is not the time to take chances. The extraordinary challenges we face demand experienced leadership with a proven track record of success. No one will outwork me. No one will listen more attentively.
Manu Koenig
What are the three most pressing issues you would address in the next four years? y three most pressing issues are Housing, Homelessness, and Roads.
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What are your solutions? Housing: People are struggling to afford high rents. Hispanic or Latinx
What lessons were learned from the wildfires in the Santa Cruz Mountains? What can the county do to prepare? Leopold: We passed a measure to add staffing to County Fire. I got the first funding to support FireSafe Councils and money to support cameras to see fire early. We got the first shaded fuel break at Loma Prieta School and we’re working on a 5-mile fuel break on Summit Road. We voted to underground utility lines in the mountains. I had state Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara talk on my telephone town hall. This is a start. Koenig: We need more cameras. A third of the county had to evacuate. The Grand Jury said the county is unprepared and uninformed as to the risk.We need to make sure we have a vegetation management plan for the highest risk areas, maintain fuel breaks on all county roads. We need more firefighters, more work crews, inmate crews, programs for people down on their luck to help us prepare.
How would you diversify the job market? Koenig: We have 5,000 people commuting out from District One. We need more office space and workspaces for people to move forward with John Leopold their ventures. We should expand high-speed internet, lay conduit on the Soquel corridor and Soquel Research Park and the rail corridor. The former Ledyard building can host more great companies. Startup Sandbox helps on Westside Santa Cruz. Leopold: We need to match jobs with education. A major new Kaiser Permanente facility is planned in the district, jobs there will pay $60,000-$80,000 a year. We have dark fiber on Soquel Drive. We’re trying to find ways to bring it to 41st Avenue. The Pleasure Point commercial corridor can bring new development. The new can-
residents account for 34% of the population, but only 12% of homeowners, meaning housing is a racial equity issue as well. We need to make it easier for more people to pitch in and help build the housing we so desperately need. I’m going to streamline the Planning Department because this is the bottleneck that all housing passes through. I will make it faster and easier to get a permit enabling families to rebuild and add rooms for their kids or parents. I will legalize tiny homes, including off-grid models, for greater flexibility and first time home ownership. Finally, I will implement the Sustainable Santa Cruz Plan to build new village centers and walkable communities. This plan has been around but unimplemented for 6 years and while my opponent claims he supports it, his vote in favor of a Nissan Dealership on 41st Avenue and Soquel Drive was contrary to its recommendations. Homelessness: I will direct more of the money we receive from the State and Federal governments to long-term housing solutions. So far we’ve really failed on long-term thinking with this issue. I look to Community First! Village in Austin, Texas, as a housing model that includes work opportunities for its residents. Essentially this builds on successful local programs like the Homeless Garden Project and Downtown Streets Team. Formerly unsheltered people can
be an asset to our community helping with everything from roads to fire preparedness. I will also implement better mental health outreach like the CAHOOTs program in Eugene, Ore., to help connect people with a stable living environment. This structured response will help us keep our public spaces safe and clean. Roads: This basic infrastructure is the only service many mountain residents rely on from the County, yet it’s failing. We need to invest more of our General Fund into road maintenance. This includes greater safety measures like cutting back brush and branches on county roads and creating new escape routes. In town, it means more protected bike lanes, speed bumps and other traffic calming measures. County Government can do more and we also need to empower volunteers with training programs and equipment. Investing in roads also means investing in high-speed internet, because the County’s dig-once policy means we’ll lay more conduit for fiber.
10 / November 2020 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
And has COVID-19 or anything else shifted your priorities? Explain. You mean other things like devastating wildfires and a racial equality movement? Definitely! These all highlight the need for change and create greater urgency for creative, near-term solutions. The biggest priority in our COVID-19 response is ensuring kids can safely
nabis industry could produce 6,000 to 7,000 jobs. Both said yes when asked if they would support navigation center for homeless and reducing parking Manu Koenig requirements for new housing. Both said yes to legalizing tiny homes on wheels. How would you create more affordable housing? Leopold: On Capitola Road, we approved 57 housing units along with a new health center. Habitat for Humanity is building 18 units. Land on Brommer Street was a hotel site but now it’s mostly housing and a small amount of retail. “District 1 Continued” page 15
go back to school. I keep hearing from teachers and parents that we’re losing too many students to bad internet connections and unsupportive home learning environments. Whether it’s alternating days, outdoor classes, more safety measures or all of the above, school days are necessary for the mental health of our students and parents. When it comes to the priorities I mentioned like housing, COVID has destroyed businesses and increased commercial vacancies. This creates an urgency to reimagine old commercial centers, updating them so they can become mixed-use villages with more housing. In terms of homelessness, the pandemic has highlighted just what a poor job we’re doing in meeting the health needs of this population. It also highlights the fact that good health starts with housing. That’s why I’m focused on creating long-term housing solutions for homeless people, not just a shortterm response that’s only good for the duration of the pandemic. Finally, regarding roads, the fires have demonstrated the enormous risks our community faces and the necessity of regular road maintenance in terms of both quality and clearing brush for fire breaks. The destruction of over 1,500 structures also highlights the urgency of streamlining the Planning Department so people can rebuild. n
COMMUNITY NEWS
New Bohemia Brewing Pivots To Stay Open
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By Jondi Gumz
raft breweries in Santa Cruz County have been shut down by COVID-19 since mid-March, so how did New Bohemia Brewing — also known as NuBo — get the green light to reopen in Pleasure Point? The secret is: Serving meals and setting up service outdoors. “We have a kitchen,” said Dan Satterthwaite, NuBo co-founder and brewmaster. Satterthwaite works out of an eyecatching building at 1030 41st Ave., designed by Capitola architect Frank Phanton. “We added a full-time head cook and we’re selling more food,” he said. “In late June we got a temporary outdoor permit with the county.” Menu options include BBQ and salad, made on site, a vegan BBQ plate and a giant pretzel with beer cheese. It’s a small business, with 11 employees. Satterthwaite, 45, of Soquel, launched his venture in 2013, inspired by the beer culture of Bohemia (today’s Czech Republic).
New Bohemia Brewing cans beer with a mobile operation known as Can Van. He and his head brewer Mike Barker, also of Soquel, have 42 years of brewing experience between them. What NuBo doesn’t have is a beercanning machine, which can cost $150,000. Satterthwaite solved this problem by hiring Can Van, a mobile canning company
in Sacramento with a mission to save craft breweries whose taprooms were closed by COVID-19. “Can Van comes every two to three weeks and cans as much beer as we have ready,” he said, noting the company’s consistency and quality of work.
Patrons at NuBo’s outdoor beer garden can see the machine in action. This summer, New Bohemia debuted two new beers. First came Pilzner Soquel, “a summer drinking beer,” Satterthwaite said. When it was well received in New Bohemia’s online store and Capitola opened its Esplanade to the beach for outdoor dining, he created a beer for Capitola Village: Capitola Kolsch, dressing up the can with a photo of the Capitola cliff. Then came August, a crazy month when lightning started fires in the Santa Cruz Mountains. “I live in the mountains and I wasn’t affected by the fire but we have friends in Big Basin, Boulder Creek and Last Chance who literally lost everything,” Satterthwait said. “We knew we wanted to help.” Discretion Brewing in Soquel and a dozen other craft breweries got together and made a beer — and it sold out in a week. “New Bohemia” page 13
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2020 / 11
12 / November 2020 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
“City Council” from page 9 Reising: The biggest challenge, parents need kids to have something to do. Homeschooling and Zoom, people are frustrated. We have to think differently. Keiser: The afterschool program, I have donated, and you can too. It benefits everybody. Maybe we need to get families involved in pods…Employers have to look at how they can maintain their staff. Funding, I don’t know. Rovai: My clients, most of them are working from home. When school restarted, they’re having to school from home. My wife worked with our school district through the summer, Zooming with kids, and she was surprised at number of kids who came in. She expected two or three, and 17 to 20 came in per age group. The need is out there. With city sales tax revenue down, what are you willing to trim, and which not? Reising: We have to get creative about how to generate revenue. As a city, we can come up with different ideas. Petersen: I’ve personally already been through it. We had a $4.5 million shortfall. It comes down to labor negotiations. We had to cut our entire community grants program. I’m hopeful we can begin to rebuild that, because TOT (hotel room tax revenue) and sales tax revenue are starting to recover, slowly but surely. If things get worse, we may have to look at dipping into our general fund or our reserves.
Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz
City Council candidates see opportunities to build housing and a hotel when the Capitola Mall owner presents its proposal to redevelop the property on 41st Avenue. Rovai: We need to have a police department, we need a public works department. If we don’t have a safe and clean city, who’s gong to want to come visit? Keiser: You need to look at everything as a whole, safety and public works are two very important areas. The community grants, for programs like Meals on Wheels, I would like to see that brought back. This goes back to supporting local business and spending your money here. n
Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz
Capitola Mall, reopened after a COVID-19 shutdown, is attracting fewer shoppers nowadays.
COMMUNITY NEWS
County Superior Court Offers Text Reminders T he Superior Court of Santa Cruz County has introduced a new automated system for anyone wanting to receive text message reminders about future hearings and financial payment due dates, as well as to remind jurors about their jury service responsibility. Using a grant from the California Judicial Council, the court introduced the system late last year and expanded its use earlier this year. Court officials hope the system will aid people in remembering important court related obligations and prevent people from missing their hearings. “The use of this technology is crucial in this day and age where people expect the ability to use their personal devices to help manage their personal obligations and we are excited to make this service available to members of our community,” said Superior Court Executive Officer Alex Calvo. Using the system is easy for those looking to receive reminder text messages for their next hearing date and only requires that they text their case number
to a designated phone number: (831) 208-5170. The system will also provide notifications about financial due dates for anyone with a payment plan for paying a fine—if a person texts their case or citation number to the designated phone number. Confidential cases are excluded from the system -- individuals will not receive notifications about those cases. Jurors who elect to receive reminder notifications, on the other hand, would do so after receiving their jury summons or when they call the court to check for their reporting instructions. They would send a text with their assigned group number, which is found on their jury summons, to (831) 900-4445 or they can sign up when contacting the court to receive jury service reporting instructions, either using the court’s automated phone or web attendant. n ••• For questions, contact the Superior Court at 831-420-2332 or email tim.newman@santa cruzcourt.org
Over the years we’ve donated more than $2 million to community organizations, and we continue to donate 10% of our after-tax profits to support local causes.
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“New Bohemia” from page 11 So Satterthwaite did what he does best — he created a beer. It’s called Big Basin IPA, short for India Pale Ale, tapping into the popularity of West Coast IPA. For every can of beer sold, he’ll give $2 to Sempervirens Fund, the 120-yearold nonprofit devoted to protecting redwood forests. “They can help out Russian Ridge, Saratoga Gap, all these beautiful pieces of our landscape,” Satterthwaite said. “We got our supplier to donate barley and hops so we can donate as much as possible,” New Bohemia Brewing he added. co-founder Dan Satterth“I doubt we’ll waite is passionate about make enough craft beer. money to build an entire house or a business but if other local businesses see that people in this community really care about helping and restoring our area — if we start something, somebody else might start something. And if everybody did, we’d be able to get back on our feet much sooner.” It’s been a year of overcoming
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he Central Coast Nourishing t since 1985 Big Basin IPA sells for $8 a pint and $20 for a 4-pack. adversity at New Bohemia Brewing, and Satterthwaite is grateful for local supporters who buy his products. “We’ve had to be really creative, work fast and hard to keep things going,” he said. “I’m not going to quit.” n ••• Photos courtesy of New Bohemia Brewing
Half Moon Bay • Downtown Santa Cruz Westside Santa Cruz • Capitola • Aptos
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2020 / 13
14 / November 2020 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
COMMUNITY NEWS
Her Job is Helping Low-Level Offenders Get Jobs G oodwill Central Coast has been awarded a $400,000 grant from Santa Cruz County to help find employment for individuals with mental health and/or substance use disorder after they leave the criminal justice system. The grant, for 2 1/2 years, from the Santa Cruz County Probation Department funds a position at Goodwill to help individuals in job training and transition to full employment. “It’s going to have a pretty big impact,” said Shelby Mason, director of workforce development services of Goodwill Central Coast in Santa Cruz County. “Working with re-entry is my passion. It’s so rewarding to see success happening every day.” The program, Coordinated Access for Empowering Success, will focus on those with first-time and low-level offenses who have traditionally been underserved and who don’t qualify under other programs and initiatives. There will be diversion opportunities; restorative justice engagement, clinical assessment and access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment, and housing and stability support. Statistics show 60 percent of all jail bookings in Santa Cruz County are drugor alcohol-related and 50 percent of those who are released lack access to stable housing. A court case manager will provide coordination and support for participants in Behavioral Health Court, Veterans Court, PACT Court and Re-entry Court. Mason, who lives in Monterey, was director of re-entry programs at Goodwill of Silicon Valley from 2013 until 2018 before moving to a similar position with
Shelby Mason
Goodwill Central Coast. She received her master’s degree in business administration from CSU Monterey Bay this summer. She said Sara Jamison of the Probation Department knew of her re-entry work with AB109 and Proposition 47 at Goodwill, so when the grant opportunity came up, she informed Mason and encouraged her to apply. Because of the coronavirus pandemic, operations at Goodwill have been disrupted and positions have been lost. Mason said the grant is a “foot in the door” to help keep re-entry services alive. Mason credits Goodwill with finding her a career that is rewarding. “It’s funny because all through college I couldn’t decide what I wanted to do,” she said. “It was hard for me to find a job and career in 2013. And the interview I had with Goodwill was the hardest I had ever been in. I got to a point where I told the interviewer, ‘Listen, I just need an opportunity.’ I ended up getting the job and helped develop and design the New Opportunity Work Program, a subsidized work program for folks returning from jail or prison. Thanks to Goodwill and someone giving me a chance, I found my passion.” n
The program, Coordinated Access for Empowering Success, will focus on those with first-time and low-level offenses who have traditionally been underserved and who don’t qualify under other programs and initiatives.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Holiday Food & Fund Drive Kickoff C o-chairs Megan Martinelli & Carlos Palacios invite you to join them — virtually — to kick off the 2020 Holiday Food & Fund Drive for Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov 5. Since March, when COVID-19 shuttered businesses, putting thousands of people of of work, followed by wildfires in August, Second Harvest has seen its food distribution grow from 650,000 pounds per month to 1.2 million pounds per month, from 55,000 to more than 100,000 people — more than a third of the county’s population. “We’re encouraging to register and view our virtual Holiday Food &
“District 1 Continued” from page 10 I have relationships with affordable housing developers like MidPeninsula, which built rentals on the St. Stephens Lutheran Church property. We need to leverage money we’re getting from the state. Koenig: First, fix the planning department. We have one of the most dysfunctional planning departments in the state. People give up. One case, a year-anda half and still no permit for an accessory dwelling unit. Septic permits are hard to get. Allow composting toilets. Spanish-speaking parents need better internet and more communication in Spanish. What can you do? Koenig: I’m committed to hiring staff who are fluent in Spanish. DigitalNEST helps youth in Watsonville become web designers and take on clients. I’d like to see that in Live Oak. Maybe hotspot devices, then dark fiber down the rail corridor. Leopold: I’ve always had bilingual staff. I created the Cradle-to-Career program 7 years ago. So many kids with monolingual Spanish-speaking parents, we do simultaneous translation in that program. So I changed the way we do that at county board meetings. In Live Oak, kids get Chromebooks for homework, and there’s food for everyone
Fund Drive video to help motivate and unite our community around this moreessential-than-ever event,” said Willy Elliott McCrea, Second Harvest CEO. “As a community, we can stay strong and healthy by providing access to the nutrition families need to thrive.” All funds raised during the Holiday Food and Fund Drive go directly to provide food to 165 partner agencies and programs. For every $1 donated, Second Harvest can provide 4 healthy meals. n ••• Early birds can set up their online fundraiser early at: www.thefoodbank.org/hero Register to view the video at www.thefoodbank.org/kickoff2020
who needs it. The Mexican consulate comes to handle paperwork so people can work here in restaurant, retail and health care jobs. Hundreds of people are in shelters. How would you get them into permanent housing? Leopold: We set up 11 shelters for 600 people this year. Finding sites is hard. The Seventh Day Adventists approved their campground to house 20 or so youth exiting foster care, with 25% moved to permanent housing, and they hosted 300 fire evacuees. We need to purchase a hotel and convert it to housing, but it’s hard to find a hotel that wants to sell. We need a navigation center to help people who are homeless get the help they need. Koenig: Addiction and county mental health services are failing. We’re not using money from the state to build permanent housing. We got $10.5 million from the state, and the nonprofit Housing Matters recommended a navigation center. We ignored that recommendation. How many houses built? Zero. We could have pallet shelters and tiny homes by the county’s Emeline complex and its Watsonville health clinic. Once people are housed, they need productive work, like what’s provided by the Homeless Garden Project. n
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Be The Difference Awards Gala Reinvented T he Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County, along with presenting sponsor Santa Cruz Community Credit Union, will celebrate the 2020 Be the Difference Awards honoring individuals, groups and businesses that transform Santa Cruz County through volunteerism. The top honorees are:
Individuals: Penny Cotter, Foster Andersen Business: UPS Santa Cruz Nonprofit: Youth N.O.W. Group: UCSC Molecular Diagnostic Lab This year the awards gala will happen online via a pre-recorded watch party celebration premiering at noon Wednesday, Oct. 21, on the Volunteer Center website, Facebook page and YouTube channel. KION-TV 5/46 will provide video highlights of the winners and all 55 nominees will be recognized throughout the show. “While this year will look like never before in our 14-year history of the awards, we promise an incredible hour of lunchtime inspiration and entertainment social distance style,” said Volunteer Center Director of Communications Christine Loewe, noting that special guests include local singer-guitarist James Durbin of American Idol fame. Traditionally, more than 400 individuals, community leaders, and business representatives gathered in person to honor local service champions. “Given the incredible challenges we have faced in 2020, these awards serve as our opportunity to take a break from the news cycle and shine a light on the incredible resilience of Santa Cruz County,” Lowe said. “We could all use a bit of good news and we think hearing about those who do good in our community will
16 / November 2020 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
Foster Andersen
Penny Cotter
serve as a much needed moment of joy as we close out October.” To help offset the cost of producing this year’s event the Volunteer Center is offering two ways that community members can contribute while joining in. All friends who donate $50 or more will be entered into a drawing to win a Warriors jersey signed by Draymond Green. Donations can be made at https://scvolunteercenter.org/events-2/ be-the-difference-awards/. Additionally, when community members buy a meal from Woodstock Pizza in Santa Cruz on the day of the premiere Oct. 21 between noon and 9 p.m., 25% of the meal proceeds will go to the Volunteer Center. “We hope you will grab some pizza and take a virtual lunch break with us to celebrate volunteerism and our 55 nominees,” Loewe said. n
2020 Be The Difference Award Top Honorees Foster Andersen oster Andersen is a true legend in Santa Cruz County. Through his work and volunteer activities he encourages community members of all abilities to participate in outdoor recreation activities, face new challenges, and widen the circle
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of community advocacy. He is most known as the founder and Executive Director of Shared Adventures, a nonprofit devoted to increasing recreational opportunities for disabled individuals. Starting in 1992 with the first Day on the Beach event, Shared Adventures has grown to an operation that hosts 80+ events and serves 2000+ participants each year. Additionally, he has served as a member of the Santa Cruz County Commission on Disabilities for 16 years, has been on the advisory board of the Santa Cruz County In-Home Support Services program for 10 years, serves as the ADA advisory member of the Rail to Trail Commission and as the ADA advisory member of the SC County State Parks Commission. Santa Cruz County is a more accessible and inclusive community due to his dedication.
Penny Cotter hen the pandemic hit Santa Cruz County, Penny saw a very clear need to get masks into the hands of those who needed them and therefore she decided to establish the FB group SC Mask Sewers. At the outset, there were five sewers and that group has now grown to more than 415. In the last six months, this collective of talented volunteers has delivered more than 16,000 masks to the community. Penny has been the key organizer and facilitator of this important process. Folks from all over the county show up at her door to access supplies and drop of masks. She has coordinated the distribution to Santa Cruz County law enforcement, first responders, the Metro, doctors, nurses, health care providers (forprofit and nonprofit), family organizations, mental health, nursing home and the list goes on. Her enthusiasm for the group’s efforts has united a group of men, women, and children in meeting a need for the community while instilling pride in their ability to contribute. She is a beacon of community volunteerism. UPS Santa Cruz anta Cruz UPS staff, led by Manager Joe Medina, have volunteered thousands of hours over years. Approximately 40 of their staff regularly volunteer with community projects with their biggest volunteer activity being the Stuff the Bus campaign put on by the Santa Cruz County Office of Education.
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“Be The Difference” page 23
COMMUNITY NEWS
Calmness and Wellness Despite COVID-19 By Jondi Gumz
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elissa Manning Collins had worked in the healing arts for 26 years, yet when COVID-19 arrived, it threw her for a loop. Collins, 51, of Aptos, is the founder of Livity Rising, a community service organization that has organized more than 60 free pop-up clinics in Santa Cruz County and beyond offering holistic healing modalities such as Acupuncture, Acupressure, Orthopedic Manual Therapy, Massage, CranioSacral Therapy, Qi Gong, Reiki and many others. “I was inspired by the Healing Clinic Collective, a group I volunteered for in the East Bay,” she said. With 20 years of experience as a yoga practitioner and teacher and a decade as an energy medicine and Reiki practitioner, she volunteered for the East Bay Healing Collective, caring for underserved and traumatized populations, then started Livity Rising in 2013 to bring holistic clinics to Santa Cruz County. “Healing is not a privilege,” she said. “It’s everyone’s right to feel good in their bodies, to feel safe and supported.” To offer the clinics, “we partner and ally with nonprofits and other community service organizations,” she said, such as the Walnut Avenue Family & Women’s Center, Homeless Garden Project, the Resource Center for Nonviolence, the Tannery Arts Center (traumatized in 2015 by the slaying of 8-year-old Madyson Middleton), Bear Creek Fire relief, Second Harvest Food Bank and Project Homeless Connect. “Last fall, we went up to Paradise,” she said. The invitation came to collaborate with the Permaculture Action Network after the town was devastated by fire. Collins cold-called healing practitioners from the surrounding areas to participate, creating a healing team of 20 practitioners and support staff. More than 300 volunteers came to build compost bins, remediate soil and create a community garden at the site of the former Paradise Guild before enjoying a concert by the Rising Appalachia band. Livity Rising outreach came to halt because of the shelter-in–place order in mid-March to slow the spread of COVID-19, the contagious coronavirus. “I felt a bit of paralysis for few months,” said Collins. Virtual Outreach hen she saw a way to pivot, with practitioners offering virtual free community
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Dr. LeTa Jussila leads class in Qi Gong. wellness workshops and classes such as yoga and meditation, such as TRE (Trauma Release Exercises), Self Acupressure, Qi Gong, and meditation via livityrising.com and also posting a plethora of self-care tools, such as a way to tone your vagus nerve and the Sanskrit practice of alternate nostril breathing to calm your nervous system. Other practitioners created videos on “Easy Self Foot Massage” and “Flowing Body Warmup” on Livity Rising‘s YouTube channel. “Everything is structured toward beginners,” Collins said. “We know it’s intense out there. We want people to access Deborah Johnson calmness and wellness despite the craziness.” When the CZU Lightning Complex fires forced 77,000 residents in the county to evacuate, she felt people craving inperson compassionate care and connection. But could an in-person healing clinic be safe? What would it look like? Inner Light Ministries, founded in Soquel by Rev. Deborah Johnson, had hosted and collaborated with Livity Rising clinics before COVID-19, and she gave her blessing. The large courtyard, surrounded by trees, provided fresh air, space and shade. Safety Protocols ollins reached out to Acupuncturists Without Borders, a nonprofit that has been offering disaster relief mobile
clinics during COVID-19, which agreed to participate. In a month, Collins along with the
Livity Rising organizing committee and their participating practitioners created a safety protocol: Temperatures taken, Covid symptoms screening, proper sanitization, mandatory masks, no linens, and stations under shade tents spaced apart. On Sept. 27, more than twenty practitioners offered services in acupuncture, energy work, reflexology, Reiki and massage. There were classes with Carla Brown on grief yoga, Core Trauma Repatterning with Sarah Cruse and Qi Gong with Dr. LeTa Jussila and Beth Freewomon Susan Willats played the harp, Michael Louge played the flute and hand pan and Kaitlin Jones played classical guitar. Renegade Apothecary served organic tea and Michael from Inner Light served hot soup. More than 30 volunteers assisted during the four-hour event, which was attended by 70 people. “Livity Rising” page 23
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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2020 / 17
18 / November 2020 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
COMMUNITY NEWS
15 Die of COVID-19 at Watsonville Post Acute
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By Jondi Gumz
total of 15 residents at the Watsonville Post Acute Center have died after exposure to COVID-19, bringing the number of fatalities in Santa Cruz County to 25. The death toll has more than doubled from 10 five weeks ago because of the outbreak at the skilled nursing facility even as the number of new cases has slowed down. “It’s absolutely heart-breaking,” said County Health Officer Dr. Gail Newel, speaking Oct. 13 at a tele-town hall meeting for constituents of county Supervisor Zach Friend. “It demonstrates the very real cost … people we love in our community.” All 15 people who died at the nursing home were over 70 years old, according to Corinne Hyland, county public health spokeswoman. Of the 25 deaths countywide, 15 have been Latinx, she said. Age is a factor in COVID-19 mortality. A study in Italy of 36,000 COVID-19 deaths this year reported the vast majority of deaths occurred among older people — more than 85 percent were 70 or older. As of Oct. 21, Hyland reported 50 of the 74 residents and 20 staff at Watsonville Post Acute tested positive. “She added, “It is my understanding that the outbreak is resolving and there are few active cases at this time. “
The facility has been working with the California Department of Public Health, the licensing agency, which has made recommendations for changes to the management. Community Spread “The number one factor in keeping COVID out of our nursing homes, so we can protect our vulnerable population, is reducing the level of the virus in the surrounding community,” said Mark Parkinson, president and CEO of the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living, which represents
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14,000 nursing homes and assisted living communities across the nation. Dr. David Grabowski, professor of health care policy at Harvard Medical School agreed, “The strongest predictor of whether or not we’ll see cases in [a particular setting] is community spread.” Watsonville Post Acute operates in Watsonville, which has more than 1,500 of the county’s 2,753 COVID-19 but only 19 percent of the county’s population. And 84 percent of the Watsonville population is Hispanic, prompting concerns that messaging about how to protect yourself from contagious coronavirus has not reached Spanish-speaking residents. Some $350,000 in federal grants were recently awarded to local organizations to support this messaging for the rest of the year. A study of 2,900 nursing homes in 30 states by a team led by Grabowski found that a greater percentage of African-American residents was related to the increased probability of a COVID-19 case but having a prior infection violation, a large number of residents on Medicaid or a five-star federal rating were not. “COVID-19” page 25
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Capitola City Council Candidates Issues T he Capitola-Soquel Times asked the four candidates seeking two seats on the Capitola City Council in the Nov. 3 election three questions: • What are the three most pressing issues you would address in the next four years? • What are your solutions? • Has COVID-19 or anything else shifted your priorities? Incumbent Kristin Petersen, seeking a second term, Margaux Keiser, Anthony Rovai, provided these answers. Will Reising did not respond. ••• Margaux Keiser: As a long time operative resident of Capitola, I hold the town very near and dear to me. The quaint, beautiful atmosphere is something that I want to help preserve. At the same time, I know there is growth on the horizon. Over the next four years I would like to work closely with the Merlone Geier Partners to come to a mutually beneficial remodel of the Capitola Mall.
Creating a mixed-use space with affordable housing is important to me. As we all know, housing prices in the county are almost unattainable for most living wage people. I feel that a project like this could create more jobs locally, and also allow for more city revenue. A small hotel in the Mall corridor could also bring in more Transient Occupancy Tax revenue that could help Capitola bounce back from the COVID-19 budget deficit. Working with the city officials and development companies on new projects like the Jetty and Wharf updates will also be important in order to stay on task & budget along with listening to the community members on such important entities of our coast & town. COVID-19 has certainly changed things for Capitola. I, for one, am navigating my own small personal training business during this tumultuous time and there have been many curve balls. If something like this were to ever come around again, we will need to be able to help and
20 / November 2020 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
uphold our small, locally run businesses. I love that, as a city, we were able to open up the Esplanade to outdoor dining and allow the small business restaurants to utilize that space. Kristen Petersen This type of flexibility is what we need as a town to continue on and progress in this ever-developing society while also protecting the health of our community. Anthony Rovai: Work on Balancing the Budget and rebuilding the Reserves, while supporting our Police Department and Public Works so we have a safe and clean city. 1) Support and work with the local business community to rebuild stronger. 2) Development — The Mall, Capitola Village & Village Hotel, and Housing As a councilman I will have open dialog with the city departments, local business community, residents and the
Anthony Rovai
Margaux Keiser
developers/owners of future projects. I will be proactive, listen and move toward solutions with the help of the community. We need to rebuild our tax base quickly and expand your opportunity for future revenue, while maintaining the look and feel of Capitola. That is why it is imperative we work WITH the community towards solutions. Reach out to the Mall owners and discuss what Capitola would like to see, so the owners are not wasting time and money on plans that are going to be rejected and postpone the development. “TPG, Inc. Questions” page 22
COMMUNITY NEWS
Another Record Median Home Price
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By Jondi Gumz
ingle-family home sales were hot in Santa Cruz County in September in more ways than one. The median sales price, the midpoint of what sold, was $1,060,000, according to Gary Gangnes of Real Options Realty, who tracks the numbers. That’s a new record. September was the third consecutive month the median price has topped $1 million dollars. A year ago, the median price was $815,000. There were 195 sales, up from 149 sales a year ago and the most for September since 2005. As of the first week of October, there were 330 listings, down dramatically from 598 listings a year ago and the fewest in history for this time of year, according to Gangnes, noting that over the past 25 years, the average number of listings for the first week of October is 872. Of those 330 listings, 147 are under contract, leaving just 183 active listings. Of those active listings, only 57 are priced under $1 million. Searching on mlslistings.com for a home in Capitola priced at $800,000 to $1 million, one listing came up: A 3,398-square-foot lot on Opal Street priced at $895,000.
Searching in Soquel at that price point, you find a three-bedroom room at 2921 Center St. for $867,000, a 944-square-foot home at 5035 Soquel Drive built in 1930, pieced at $900,000 and two lots on which to build. What is driving this frenzy in the housing market? Historically low interest rates, according to the California Association of Realtors. Buyers are playing catch-up after COVID-19, the contagious coronavirus put a lid on sales in March, April and May. But they have so little from which to choose. “Home Sales” page 28
Senior Outreach Offers New Support Groups
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enior Outreach, a program of Family Service Agency, is offering two new innovative support groups, one for women 55 and older, and one for men 55 and older. During these uncertain times, if you are feeling a yearning for new connections and thoughtful discussions, Senior Outreach invites you to share your thoughts and feelings with others in a support group setting via Zoom, guided by experienced peer-counselors creating a safe environment. The women’s group will meet once a week via Zoom for six weeks for 1-1/2 hour sessions. A workbook will be provided suggesting discussion questions
to help you share with the group, guided journaling, and suggestions for activities you can do from home. The support group will meet Oct. 29 – Dec. 3 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. The men’s group will meet once a week via Zoom for six weeks for 1-1/2 hour sessions, featuring discussion topics designed to facilitate personal growth. Brief journaling will be requested before each meeting to get started on the week’s topic. The support group will meet Nov. 4 – Dec.16 (skipping the day before Thanksgiving) from 12:30 to 2 p.m. To register and for more information, contact 459-9351, Ext. 206. Leave a message for a call back within 24 hours. n
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COMMUNITY NEWS
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22 / November 2020 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
9520 SOQUEL DRIVE APTOS, CA 95003
831-688-1006
he deadline for Santa Cruz County survivors of August wildfires to register with FEMA for individual disaster assistance and apply for a low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration has been extended to Nov. 23. The first step is a Phase 1 assessment by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which has so far EPA has completed 74% of the assessments in Santa Cruz County. The EPA has an online tool for the public to track the agency’s progress at: response. epa.gov/2020CaliforniaFires Federal disaster assistance for individuals and families can include money for rental assistance, essential home repairs, personal property losses and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance. Residents who lost access to water through their private well — if the well was physically damaged, collapsed and/or is no longer producing potable water as a direct
“TPG, Inc. Questions” from page 20 COVID-19 is one of the reasons I’m running for City Council. Capitola is an amazing city, we enjoy a healthy natural environment, clean, safe streets, vibrant business, social and cultural communities. I feel blessed to live and work in Capitola and I’m reminded of this during my morning walks through the neighborhoods. COVID has brought on some challenging times and tough decisions lie ahead. As a businessman, I know how to make tough decisions. If you share my love for Capitola, like balanced budgets, and want to keep Capitola special, vote for Anthony Rovai to bring commonsense and solutions to Capitola Kristen Petersen: The most pressing issues that I would like to address in the coming years include economic recovery as we continue to move though, and eventually out of, the COVID pandemic, coastal resilience in the face of climate change, and increasing the availability of affordable housing. In terms of economic recovery from the COVID pandemic, we can look at ways to leverage state and federal funding to assist us in meeting the needs of our community. Additionally, as the economy continues to safely reopen and revenues slowly return to
result of the disaster — could also be considered for financial assistance under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. Apply with the Federal Emergency Management Agency at www.disasterassistance.gov; by downloading the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet; or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-6213362 (TTY 800-462-7585) between 7 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. To apply for an SBA disaster loan for a small business, call the Virtual Business Recovery Center and Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center (800) 659-2955 from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. For questions, email FOCWAssis tance@sba.gov n
pre-pandemic levels we can work to return our budget to pre-COVID levels for funding of community programs and local services. We can address coastal resilience in the face of climate change through the ongoing projects to rebuild our Jetty and improve our Wharf. These projects will address beach erosion and revitalize our Wharf so that it can better withstand increasingly intense winter weather patterns. The Capitola Mall redevelopment project, which is still in the very early planning stages, will provide a great opportunity to build affordable housing in our City. If reelected, I am committed to encouraging this housing development so that Capitola can contribute to addressing the housing shortage in our region. While economic vitality, coastal resilience, and affordable housing have always been priorities of mine, the COVID pandemic only highlighted these important issues and the need for us to find new and innovative ways of addressing them. In the coming years, we will need to continue to meet the needs of those most vulnerable to the impacts of the pandemic, such as those facing health issues, financial hardships, homelessness, eviction, and food insecurity, while also working to repair the cuts to our budget and assuring the safety and wellbeing of all Capitola residents. n
“Be The Difference” from page 16 UPS staff volunteer their time to transport donations of school supplies where they need to go throughout the county. During this year’s wildfire emergency in Santa Cruz County, UPS Santa Cruz teamed up with the Volunteer Center and 15 members of their team volunteered on their day off to help at the Fire Recovery Donation Warehouse in Santa Cruz. UPS Santa Cruz has chosen to make the community a part of their bottom line. Youth N.O.W. ith a stalwart crew of volunteers, Youth N.O.W. delivers an after school program in Watsonville that provides a safe welcoming place for youth to thrive academically and socially. Volunteers support student’s academic success by providing homework help, 1:1 tutoring, and more. Youth N.O.W. has served 100+ students annually, providing them safety and guidance to make positive choices. Volunteers and staff partner together to create new experiences for youth such as an overnight backpacking trip, slacklining, guitar lessons, ice skating field trips, and a variety of art lessons, cooking, and enrichment activities. Youth N.O.W.’s outcomes show that 80% of students maintain or improve their
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grades, all students graduate high school, and 85% go on to further education (2- or 4-year, or career tech). Their current collaborations extend to 20+ organizations to provide additional interventions, classes, activities and volunteer opportunities. University of California, Santa Cruz Molecular Diagnostic Lab his team of scientists, lab technicians and researchers used their expertise to develop processes, procedures, and administration protocol for local COVID-19 testing. In only four months they initiated the process for licensing, received approval from federal and state agencies, and developed the capacity to test 400 people per day in a lab they built from scratch. Once established, the lab received a grant from the Santa Cruz Community Foundation to partner up with healthcare nonprofits Salud Para La Gente and Santa Cruz Community Health Centers to provide testing for low-income and vulnerable residents. Thanks to an additional partnership with the County of Santa Cruz to purchase more lab equipment, they are now capable of processioning 800 tests per day. This team created this lab outside of their normal work responsibilities and
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“Livity Rising” from page 17 “I was a bit nervous, but it was safe and beautiful to connect with people in person,” said Collins. “If we are careful and thoughtful, we can do this.” She expects Livity Rising will return to Inner Light in the spring for another healing clinic. As for the future, Collins wants to raise $10,000 to
Reverend Deborah Johnson speaking to the assembled group.
UCSC Molecular Diagnostic Lab at work. burned the midnight oil to offer more testing to our community. n •••
Visit scvolunteercenter.org/events-2/bethe-difference-awards/2020-nominees/ or email events@scvolunteercenter.org.
$20,000 to buy a large van or small shuttle school bus to retrofit as a mobile unit on call to serve people in times of disaster and those for whom transportation to and from clinics is burdensome. “They don’t have to come to us -- we can come to them,” she said. Livity Rising would like to be able to hold mobile clinics up the North Coast, in the Santa Cruz Mountains and in Watsonville where she has a strong heart connection from the 10 years she spent as a Spanish immersion teacher in the Pajaro Valley. She hopes People are socially distanced to receive ear acupuncture. to serve the farmers and campesinos who work so tirelessly in the fields in Watsonville. Corey Miller L.Ac. • Dr Stephanie Smith “They deserve respect, gratitude, and nourishing Dr Marilyn Mariposa Bernstein • Jessica Powell L.Ac. holistic care,” she said. Wendy Robb • Jake Medvidovich • Joanna Burrows To access Living Rising’s comprehensive and wellness Alexandria Hays • Mohini Bierbaum • Michael Chorvat resources and/or to provide support, visit www.livityAmanda Loveland • Courtney Musser • Frederica Craft rising.com or email info@livityrising.com. n Dylan Simpson • Tenaya Halley • Suzy Brown ••• Beth Freewomon • Acupuncturists Without Boarders Volunteer Practitioners ••• Maria Fernandez • Sarah Cruse • Dr LeTa Jussila Inner Light Staff Carla Brown • Christina Gustafson • Kelly Meyer Rev. Deborah Johnson • Donna Star Kamala Taft • Lara Noel • Primavera Hernandez Ashley Rose Blanchette • Timote Peterson
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2020 / 23
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Caveats To Hiring Family By Ron Kustek
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When things are good, it can be great… For those of you who work in familyowned and operated businesses, you know when it’s great. You’re all in sync with each other, you know each other’s strong points and not-so strong areas, but cover for each other, the way all great employees do. When
You start each day with excitement and anticipation of how good things can be today, even if it’s gloomy outside, it’s always sunny inside the business (because you’re making money, and that often makes people happy). You end each day talking about the day’s challenges, often with some laughs and some head-shaking in disbelief over something that happened. In a happy family business, even in difficult times, each family member pulls together instead of pulling at each other – and the company, apart. Paul Efe • Pexels
here are many reasons why we hire family members to work for us. They are usually more committed with a vested interest in the success of the company and they’re often more trustworthy, not to mention that family will often work for lower wages than nonfamily labor. All of these positive attributes can contribute to a more cohesive and stronger bond between family members working together in the business. When this formula works well it has a tremendously positive impact on your customers who see and especially feel -- that you have a truly family-owned and operated local business worth supporting.
it’s good, there’s no negativity, no “you owe me” and no harboring feelings that the other family member isn’t pulling their weight. Your conversations are light yet mean-
24 / November 2020 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
ingful, as well as open and honest, both at work and at home, because with a family business there is no real “leaving it at the office.”
But when things are bad, it can be awful… Have you ever hired a friend to work for you or to be a partner with you and your business? Hopefully, you’re both still friends. Often over time there is the tendency for friends to somehow not care as much or work as hard as you do in your business. “Family Business” page 26
“COVID-19” from page 19 Since the virus was detected Sept. 17 at Watsonville Post Acute via staff testing, 50 of the 74 residents have tested positive along with 20 of the staff — “70 percent infectious despite all the best efforts on the part of the facility,” Newel said. The protocols include surveillance testing, which means onequarter of the employees are tested each week, but the virus is sneaky and fast-moving. “Two days before symptoms appear is when you’re most at risk of spreading the virus,” Newel said, noting 21 residents at Watsonville Post Acute were infected in one day, a “super-spreader” situation. Asked if nursing home residents should have their Vitamin D levels tested as studies have found higher COVID-19 mortality for those with low Vitamin D, Newel said, “Good question — It’s under investigation.” National Problem he virus has hit nursing homes hard across the nation, with 40 percent of the COVID-19 fatalities being nursing home residents. In late May, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), ranking member of the Special Committee on Aging, co-introduced S. 3768 proposing $20 billion to help states, nursing homes and care facilities to reduce the spread of COVID-19 by buying personal protective equipment and testing. The bill has 24 sponsors, mostly Democrats, but has stalled. A similar bill, HR 6972, sponsored by U.S. Anna Eshoo, D-Menlo Park, also stalled after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services distributed nearly $4.9 billions in relief to skilled nursing facilities to make up for revenue lost due to COVID-19. In late August the Trump Administration, through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, announced nearly $2.5 billion was going to nursing homes for increased testing, staffing, and personal protective equipment. In September, Sen. Casey and Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR), ranking member of the Finance Committee released a new report that analyzed data reported by nursing homes for July and August to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The data show persistent shortages of personal protective equipment, testing and staffing in nursing homes and that on average during those months, more than one resident was infected every minute and 11 residents died every hour. Among the problems: Insufficient
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N95 masks, inadequate testing supplies to allow for repeat tests, and shortages of nurses and aides. A study in Italy found 99 percent of those who died had other medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and diabetes, a “co-morbidity,” in medical terminology. “The vast majority of us have a co-morbidity,” Newel said, noting 40 percent of Americans are obese, 40 percent are diabetic or pre-diabetic and others with high blood pressure, heart disease or undergoing chemo for cancer. The first 20 of the county’s COVID deaths had a co-morbidity, she said, with most of them older and at higher risk. The youngest, she said, was 38 and had a number of severe illnesses. About 63 percent of the COVID cases are Latinx, many of them essential workers. Health Equity ewel called the state’s new health equity metric “complicated” and predicted Santa Cruz County would remain in the Red Tier “for weeks to come,” meaning no changes in business operations, no restrictions and no expansion. However, figures posted by the state on Oct. 20 show improvement, 3.2 new cases per day per 100,000 people, 1.6 percent test positivity rate and 4.4 percent for the equity positivity rate — all metrics that match the Orange Tier, which would mean fewer restrictions for businesses. Next Tuesday’s numbers will be pivotal, predicted Scotts Valley city officials. Asked about trick or treating, Newel cited the challenge of complying with the latest state guidance to be in a group of no more than three households and stay six feet apart. Asked about school ventilation as the rainy season approaches, Newel said aerosolization that could spread the virus is a concern in dental offices, but not so much for schools. Schools are looking to optimize ventilation but they’re not all able to meet the standard for acute care facility, she added. Newel noted contact tracing has found in almost all cases the virus is spread person to person, often someone in the household or a friend being within six feet for more than 15 minutes. Asked when a COVID vaccine might be available to the general public, Newel said January at the earliest, with law enforcement, paramedics, firefighter, military, hospital ICU and ER staff getting it first, then higher risk populations.
Five clinical trials are underway in the U.S., and more than 12 worldwide. “A new normal in 2022, that’s my prediction,” Newel said. As for therapeutics, she said zinc and antibiotics are already widely available while remdesivir – which was given to President Trump – has been reserved for the sickest patients, and the monoclonal antibody the president got is “very experimental, not in clinical trials.” Newel urged everyone to get a flu shot. “We got our flu shots,” said county supervisor Zach Friend. “My 5-year-old son went first. He wanted to show it doesn’t hurt.” ••• To read the Senate nursing home report, see https://www.aging.senate.gov/imo/media/
doc/The%20Cost%20of%20Inaction%20 -%2011%20Deaths%20An%20Hour%20 -%20COVID-19%20in%20Nurisng%20 Homes.pdf COVID-19 Cases (As Of Friday, Oct. 23) Aptos.................................................121 Ben Lomond......................................22 Boulder Creek....................................22 Capitola..............................................65 Felton..................................................28 Freedom............................................151 Santa Cruz........................................540 Scotts Valley.......................................68 Soquel.................................................65 Watsonville...................................1,580 Unincorporated.................................32 Under investigation..........................76 Total...............................................2,771 Source: santacruzhealth.org
Civics 101
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ACROSS
1. Beginning of flu, e.g. 6. Espionage agent 9. *Warsaw Pact opponent 13. Ringworm 14. Romanian monetary unit 15. Well-known 16. Contain the ashes 17. Paris’ ____ De Triomphe 18. Wear away 19. *Group of President’s advisors 21. *Balance partner, pl. 23. Ever, to a poet 24. Joker, e.g. 25. Type of coniferous 28. Man Ray’s genre
30. Switches topics 35. “Beware the ____ of March” 37. Large casks 39. Beyond suburban 40. Fatalist’s future 41. Weasel’s aquatic cousin 43. City of Taj Mahal 44. Tossed or passed 46. Ready and eager 47. “I ____ With You” by Modern English 48. Water pipe 50. Diplomat’s forte 52. Grain in J.D. Salinger’s novel 53. Miso bean 55. One of Indiana Jones’ quests 57. *Part of Congress 60. *One who introduces a bill 64. Recurring pain
65. Consumed 67. Baby grand, e.g. 68. Relating to Hinduism 69. Siren’s domain 70. Tiny island 71. Fencing weapon 72. Trinitrotoluene, for short 73. Two-player strategy board game
DOWN
1. Ear-related 2. Santa Maria’s companion 3. Give the cold shoulder 4. Like Halloween night 5. Turned skin into leather 6. Blind segment 7. ____ capita 8. New Mexico’s state flower
9. Narcotics agent, for short 10. Every which way 11. Koppel and Kennedy 12. Percy Bysshe Shelley’s poem, e.g. 15. Avian rest stop 20. Muse of love poetry 22. Store posting, abbr. 24. Choral composition 25. *”Miranda Rights” amendment 26. Leading potatoproducing state 27. Yesteryear style 29. *Serving on a jury 31. *One of five U.S. territories 32. One that insists 33. Ahead of time 34. *List of candidates 36. Radio button 38. Red Cross supplies 42. Summary
45. Sushi restaurant burner 49. “Too ____ to handle” 51. ____ of Cancer 54. Brewer’s staple 56. Snack of Jewish origin 57. Edmund Fitzgerald, e.g. 58. Marine eagle 59. Lymphatic swelling 60. *John Roberts’ spot, e.g. 61. Black Friday lure 62. Half of binary code, pl. 63. Decomposes 64. Definite article 66. *Number of amendments in the Bill of Rights © Statepoint Media
Answers on 31 »
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2020 / 25
From the Battle We Emerge Triumphant
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Esoteric Astrology • November 2020 • By Risa D’Angeles
very year at this time, around Halloween, the veils between the worlds become transparent and spirits return to Earth for a visit. This occurs during Scorpio, sign of all things mysterious, secret, clandestine, furtive and covert. This Scorpio 2020 month is a most unusual month. It begins and ends with two full moons and a lunar eclipse (the past falls away) It’s an election year, the outcome determining the future of the earth. And Saturn and Jupiter, social planets, will be moving swiftly towards a Winter Solstice conjunction in Aquarius, opening the door to the new era with its New Laws & Principles. Scorpio is the sign of readjusting ourselves from “darkness to light, the unknown to the known, chaos to beauty.” During November, a battle, waged against the American people since the 1930s, comes to the forefront. It is a battle between the Forces of Light and Forces of Materialism; a conflict in plain sight, focused in the USA government. Scorpio, where we all become warriors, is where the battle
for the Soul of humanity appears. Scorpio is also the sign of the Nine Tests – physical, emotional and mental tests, for which we must be prepared. Tests strengthen us. We are coming to the end of a long dark cycle where the Forces of Materialism have taken hold of the minds of humanity. By Winter Solstice, December 21st, the social institutions that have hindered humanity’s moving forward are to be eliminated for the new Aquarian era to begin. But until then, all hidden secrets, barriers and hindrances must be torn down. It requires a great battle to remove this darkness. It is important that we remain poised and calm. Let us observe the results of both Mercury and Mars retrograde occurring during the election. It will be interesting. No matter the outcome, if we are aligned with the Forces of Light (which do control the Forces of Darkness), we can say calmly together, “Warriors are we and from the battle we emerge triumphant.”
ARIES LEO As so many changes continue to occur, you Remember when life was lived outside? When we become sensitized and aware of picked fruit, gathered water at the well, everyone’s behaviors, beliefs and and made fires to cook on? Remember responses in all interactions. You long walks at daybreak and sunset as the are also concerned with the right use moon and stars appeared? Remember of money & resources, your capacity to discern the sense of community. There was also loneliness and discriminate and your ability to give (and and separation and long snowy winters. As adults, we give some more). Closeness is importance to you are able to release what’s sorrowful. Through loving at this time. All that you value shifts to a higher forgiveness. Remember? intimate level. VIRGO TAURUS You seek more freedom — especially financial. This has been on your mind for a while The ways we act and respond in relationships stem now. One of the most important ways from childhood and family experiences of receiving money is tithing to those and observations. Although you often in need. When we give things away we hide yourself away from the world, you’re dedicated to loved ones. You experience freedom. The heart opens. What we give would never think of leaving them. This dedication returns ten-fold. What you are really seeking is liberty. allows those close to you to grow, blossom, bloom, Create a freedom journal. Write what makes you free. transform and evolve. Do you feel loved enough in Draw the Statue of Liberty. return? LIBRA GEMINI Your future is emerging in great unexpected and transformative waves. There is a reorNo matter how compelling it is to return to a previous situation, you will not and cannot ganizing of your self-identity, how you remain there. The purpose of the see yourself, your professional and return is to review the lessons, realize personal realities and interactions with the goodness, offer gratitude and for- the world. Listen carefully to all communication. giveness and then leave again. These liberate your You might hear a message concerning what needs future. The Nine Tests of Scorpio shadow you. You balancing to have a future filled with freedom. Begin pass them. You cultivate focused spiritual intention. with forgiveness. It heals you first. Then everything around you blossoms. And love. CANCER Are you feeling restricted by anyone or anything in your life? Is there a need for a rebalancing with friends or family? Are you concerned with previous choices, decisions and use of future resources? Let’s discuss rest (as in respite). You need rest in great amounts. A particular creativity calls to you. Does it have to do with home, herbs, teas, flowers, mints and gardens? Are you planting biodynamically?
SAGITTARIUS In Non-violent (compassionate) Communication classes we learn to thoughtfully and compassionately understand the self and others’ needs. Being able to discern needs becomes a creative act, deeply internal, yet profoundly affecting all outer experiences and interactions. Cooperation (a virtue) begins in earnest. If you haven’t already, begin to learn Compassionate Communication techniques. Its effects are extraordinary. CAPRICORN Profound changes continue, with self-identity and life direction. Group work is of great importance. In groups people see you as one who brings forth transformations. Some appreciate and recognize this, some don’t. However, this is your task in groups. Understanding this helps you maintain focus and confidence. You manifest the group’s spiritual work. Before any work, call in the Soul of yourself and all others. The Soul protects and safeguards you. You are the Soul of the group. AQUARIUS Your resources depend on your state of mind. It’s most important to downsize so you can move forward quickly when needed. Don’t let this be difficult. Either keep what you have or give it away so you are less dependent on physical non-essentials and more focused upon freedom, which your future will call for. Balance is in having less. And then you can proceed onto a new adventure.
SCORPIO PISCES In coming months, there will be new discoveries, a new With Neptune in Pisces, here is what it feels like. identity, and new learnings concerning “Amidst the whirling forces we stood how you see yourself. It begins with you confused, swept up and down the lands, creatively tending to self, then helping blinded, nowhere to rest.” Finally, we another. Helping others reconciles us (Pisces) says, “Here I stand and will not to our own humanity. We see the needs of the times move till I know the law governing this very moment. through the needs of others. Then we begin to help Facing many ways, I will determine for myself which build the new world - the new sharing society. You are way to go, traveling no longer up and down the land, no the resource behind this idea, which becomes an ideal longer be blinded. I will only upward move. And then within humanity. find rest.” (the Old Ancient Commentary for Pisces. •••
Risa D’Angeles • www.nightlightnews.org • risagoodwill@gmail.com 26 / November 2020 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
“Family Business” from page 24 Similar to when the business relationship with friends starts to affect your personal relationship, so too can your business relationship with a family member affect your personal relationship — often not for the better. There is nothing worse than not being able to escape. When you work in a family business where family members are not getting along, there are no secrets, no hiding how each person feels, no family bond that forgives when we as individuals just start to not like the other person — family or not. What To Do Hiring people is the most important decision you will make (and keep making) and should always be for the person with the best skill set, regardless of whether they are related to you or not. Whenever we compromise our principles, it often festers and creates difficulties somewhere down the road. So, what to do? First and foremost is the realization that there is a responsibility to ‘the business’ regardless of who owns it, or who works for it. It is recommended to always try to take the approach that “it’s not personal.” Whether you’re a manager for a Silicon Valley firm or for your own company, the guiding principle is being impartial, nonemotional but factual. Identify what is going well, and especially why — so that you can reinforce and draw on those skills for the person to apply to what isn’t going well. It’s always easier to offer solutions instead of just criticizing, so the added constructive input on the skills that are making them successful in other areas, can be applied to helping them be successful for improving their shortcomings. However, sometimes people just change, and they may not share the same goals they once did, or the same interest or passion for the company and its customers. You may find yourself with the decision that it’s easier to replace a worker than it is to replace a family member, who may just need to leave the business, in order to save the business. n ••• Ron Kustek is a former senior executive at The Coca-Cola Co. and small business owner who is currently a business instructor at Cabrillo College. Contact him at kokustek@ cabrillo.edu.
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Local Business Perspective on SqCWD
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he Soquel Creek Water District is engaged in multiple approaches to combat over-drafting of the groundwater basin and seawater intrusion into our local water supply. It’s important to remember that these severe water supply challenges affect everyone in our community — and we are all part of the solution. Over the next few months, this series of Water Wisdom columns will feature the viewpoints of local community members and organizations talking about the importance of creating and maintaining a sustainable water supply, as a community. Robert Singleton is the executive director of the Santa Cruz County Business Council — a nonprofit group with the focus of advocating on behalf of local business interests. The organization’s goals include fostering county-wide business and community vitality, being a voice for business and economic vitality throughout the community, and maintaining good working relationships between the business community, government, and public stakeholders. That’s an important mission, which affects all who live and work in our region. In carrying out that mission, Robert says that the Business Council recognizes and understands that a robust, prosperous economic environment is dependent on a healthy, strong, thriving community - and that one of the primary keys to a healthy community is a sustainable, dependable source of clean water. Consequently, there is a very strong business interest in the condition of the local water supply, and in the District’s projects to address the threats to our groundwater basin, which is the sole source of water within the District’s service area.
By Rebecca Gold Rubin
“A reliable water supply is the very lifeblood of a vibrant community,” says Robert. “And a healthy community is the foundation for economic activity — providing customers and workforce throughout the business sector. Without a reliable water supply, our community declines, and our businesses along with it.” As you might gather, Robert is wellaware of the ongoing threats to the local water supply. “With the critically over-drafted groundwater basin and saltwater contamination literally at our doorstep, our water supply is in dire circumstances,” he notes. “As advocates for business, we are depending on and support the District’s efforts to confront this critical issue. We’re in this together — businesses, the District, neighborhoods, communities, and families — and we can all take action to help resolve the long-term water supply problem.” Robert knows that continued water conservation is one key part of the solution, which the Business Council’s member companies take very seriously. At the same time, he and the Business Council appreciate the District’s work in creating new water supplies, such as Pure Water Soquel. This points back to the District’s multi-faceted, community-based approach to a sustainable water supply — water conservation, effective groundwater management, and new water supplies. Pure Water Soquel will divert millions of gallons of treated wastewater, purify it to meet or exceed all state and federal drinking water standards, and use it to recharge our overdrafted groundwater basin. This project holds great promise for ensuring our local community and businesses can depend on a reliable, long-term water supply.
In light of the immediate challenges to our community’s water supply, Robert also reflects more personally on what these problems, if not resolved, may mean for the future. “I plan on raising a family here, and I have many friends who have children,” he says. “We need to work together to ensure that our kids and grandkids, and the generations beyond, have a sustainable, reliable source of clean drinking water.” These concerns for our future are
shared by everyone, both from a business perspective and a resident perspective, and highlight the fact that only by working together can we continue to move toward a long-term solution. That is the District’s objective, and Robert and the Business Council agree — #inthistogether. n ••• As always, if you have any questions about this month’s topic or anything else related to Soquel Creek Water District, feel free to contact the District at outreach@soquelcreekwater.org or visit www.soquelcreekwater.org.
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2020 / 27
COMMUNITY NEWS
Bigger Bookstore at Capitola Mall T he Friends of the Capitola Library Bookstore is now open in the Capitola Mall, 1855 41st Ave., Capitola, a new location next to The Hallmark Store. It’s much larger, so there is more room for books, and more room to spread out for socially distanced shopping in this time of COVID-19.
“Home Sales” from page 21 In Santa Cruz County, homes sold faster than ever in September, 12 days on average, after selling in 14 days in August, according to the California Association of Realtors. A majority of sales, 53 percent, in September, sold for more than $1 million, compared to 56 percent in August and 51 percent in July – which is unusual. In September 2019, only 31 percent of homes sold for more than $1 million. Those days seem so far away.
Hours will be Saturdays and Sundays from 12 to 4 p.m. with more days coming soon. As Dinah Phillips posted on Facebook: “Lots and lots of amazing books at amazing prices, friendly people helping you, and popcorn! What’s not to love?!?” n
A shopper at Capitola Mall checks the window at the new Friends of the Capitola Branch Library Bookstore.
COVID-19 Compliance he California Association of Realtors reports the state Department of Real Estate Enforcement Division warned on Oct. 9 that complaints regarding non-compliance with COVID-19 showing protocols will be investigated. The state Department of Public Health guidance requires all visitors to a property wear masks and use hand sanitizer. Agents are required to disinfect the home before and after each showing and ensure that social distancing and other COVID protocols are followed.
A report of non-compliance will lead to an education effort, and if compliance is not obtained, then citations or other disciplinary action may be considered. Reports of non-compliance can be submitted via phone at 1-877-373-4542. These statistics show how the numbers have changed over the past three months and how they compare to a year ago. n ••• Single-family homes Median July: $1,010,500 August: $1,050,000
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28 / November 2020 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz
September: $1,060,000 Average July $1,205,205 August $1,231,546 September $1,210.612 Sales July: 220 (151 in 2019) August: 149 (164 in 2019) September: 195 (149 in 2019) Listings July: 381 (624 in 2019) August : 344 (600 in 2019) September : 330 (598 in 2019) Source: Gary Gangnes, realoptions.com
FEATURED COLUMNIST
COVID-19 Impacts Domestic Violence Survivors By Delphine Burns Editor’s Note: At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in mid-March, Monarch Services saw a 40 percent increase in crisis line calls after the “Shelter in Place” order took effect particularly from domestic violence survivors. The nonprofit also saw a 35 percent increase in clients needing safe housing and financial assistance for necessities after being displaced due to domestic violence or loss or a job. ••• ct. 1 marks the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 4 female-identifying individuals and 1 in 9 male-identifying individuals have experienced sexual violence, physical violence and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime. While Monarch Services supports survivors of domestic violence every month, October is a unique chance for community members to proactively discuss domestic
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violence, demonstrate their support for survivors and raise awareness. This year, the impact of domestic violence has been magnified by the COVID-19 pandemic. Social isolation has left many survivors in homes that are unsafe and has fractured some support networks that survivors may typically rely on to seek help or escape violence. While the shelter-in-place orders are necessary to protect our community from further spread of the virus, home is not the safest place for those being abused by their partners. Monarch Services has seen a swift uptick in the number of domestic violence survivors we are serving. In fact, we served an average of 15 new clients weekly for the first few weeks follow the “shelter in place” mandate. Monarch Services encourages individuals experiencing violence to call our crisis line for support. While individuals are physically isolated and may feel
emotionally isolated as well, we want to remind them they are not alone. Additionally, we encourage third-party individuals to call if they witness or hear domestic abuse. This October and every month, join us as we mourn for those whose lives were taken by domestic violence, celebrate survivors’ healing process and unite against domestic violence. Check in on your friends, reach out to your loved ones, remind them they are not alone. Your support makes a difference. Our 24-hour confidential, bilingual crisis line at 1-888-900-4232 remains fully staffed and we encourage anyone who needs help escaping violence, safety planning or emotional support to call us any hour of the day. Actions You Can Take • Be a caring and consistent adult in the life of a child • Talk to loved ones about violence and oppression • Create a culture of consent in your home
• Use social media to raise awareness among your peers • Listen to and validate a survivor of trauma n ••• Delphine Burns is communications manager at Monarch Services, the only rape crisis and human trafficking center in Santa Cruz County. Monarch Services offers court accompaniments, restraining order assistance, counseling, emergency shelter, 24-hour crisis line, outreach, education and support groups. All services are available in Spanish and English and are free or low cost. Info: 1-888-900-4232 or www.monarchscc.org.
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2020 / 29
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Partnering with Habitat for Humanity on Accessory Dwelling Units By Zach Friend, Second District Supervisor
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hroughout California there are discussions about how to address the significant affordable housing crisis. The recent fires also highlight the need for displaced residents to have access to safe and affordable housing. Recent studies done on home affordability have shown that in some coastal communities less than a quarter of people earn enough income to be able to purchase a home in their community and many can’t afford rising rents. Seniors are struggling to stay in the homes they own with an overall rising cost of living and our county is no exception. In fact, there are over 15,000 families currently on the Section 8 voucher waiting list locally. Of those who have received housing choice vouchers, over 400 families have been unable to find a landlord willing to accept the fair market rates offered under the program. There isn’t one simple solution to reducing housing costs. But one promising approach is to increase the number of accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The state (and many local communities) have been working to provide incentives for increased ADU construction. Over the last few years the County has significantly streamlined the process for building ADUs making it easier for homeowners to design, permit and construct these units. Additionally, the Board of Supervisors reduced permitting fees, streamlined the permit process and created a forgivable loan program (that could cover the cost of fees and even construction in some cases) for units that are deed restricted affordable housing units. Put simply, it’s now cheaper, easier
and faster to build an ADU in the unincorporated area. Even with these changes, cost is still a barrier for many people to build ADUs. Habitat for Humanity, in partnership with the State and County, has some programs that could help. Habitat was awarded CalHOME funds from the state of California, which allows more flexible financing for homeowners interested in building an ADU or JADU (Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit) on their property for increased rental income, and creation of long-term affordable housing units. Habitat offers $100,000 of funding per ADU and doesn’t charge for labor. However, whatever difference there is must be covered by the homeowner, either through savings, equity, or a commercial loan. These funds can cover actual construction costs, as well
30 / November 2020 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
as predevelopment costs such as architectural, engineering, or legal services; permit or application fees, bonding, site preparation, water or sewer development and more. It is financed as a 30-year low or no-interest loan. To qualify, households must have incomes at the low income, very low income, or extremely low income brackets. Households impacted by an event deemed later as a disaster can have incomes up to 120 percent of these levels as well. For example, the 2020 income limits for two, three, and four-person households are $85,000, $95,600, and $106,200 per year, respectively. That’s 80 percent of the area median income, adjusted for family size. The 120 percent figure for two, three, and fourperson households are $105,600, $118,800, and $132,000 per year, respectively. The homeowner must live on site, but once the ADU is built, the homeowner can continue to live in their home or move into the ADU.
New construction, conversions (of garages for example) as well as rehabilitating, repairing, and reconstructing ADUs are eligible activities. Additionally, these ADUs are not allowed to become shortterm rentals (vacation rentals). In addition to the CalHome program, the County is making up to $80,000 available at 3 percent simple interest (deferred for 30 years) as a loan to applicants who agree to make their ADU affordable to those making up to 60 percent of area median income for a specific period of time. Through the “My House My Home” program, the County has partnered with Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay and Senior Network Services to assist lowincome seniors interested in building ADUs to create extra income and remain in their homes. The loan is also payable upon sale or transfer. In exchange for participating in the My House My Home Partnership, homeowners will enter into a deed restriction that will require them to rent the ADU or the primary home at a rent affordable to low income households, defined as those whose incomes are at or below 60 percent of area median income adjusted for household size. n ••• As always, I appreciate any feedback you may have on this (or any other County issue). You can learn more from Habitat for Humanity about these programs by contacting familyservices@habitatmontereybay.org or by phone at (831) 469-4663 x14. I’m maintaining regular updates on social media at www.facebook.com/supervisorfriend and during the shelter-in-place order I’m hosting regular tele-townhalls with County and community leaders on Tuesday nights from 6-7 pm. The call in information for the town halls is 4542222 with the Meeting ID: 145384# — you are welcome to speak about this issue during the town halls or you can always call me at 454-2200. The next town hall will be Nov. 10.
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SCCAS Featured Pet
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Clean Gutters As Rainy Season Begins
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On the Runway: Fifi O’hara, Miss Fame, and Ru Paul
crossword on 25 »
s your barn-yard boring? Coop a little crusty? Downs a bit dusty? Well you can turn “legs” and “dairy” into LEGENDARY with these three fancy roosters! Fifi O’hara (A273355), Miss Fame (A273356), and the infamous Ru Paul (A273354) are ready to strut their silkie feathers down your runway. It has been a long few months for these roosters, but they are ready to sing their way into your heart. They came to SCCAS when their family had to evacuate due to the CZU Lighting Fire and they are now available for adoption because they were not able to return home. These three are ready to Cock-a-doodle-do this adoption thang, so come to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter to take these beautiful roosters home today! Adoptions are first come, first served! Please view available animals on our website and then visit the Shelter to turn in your application. All adoptions require proof of home ownership or landlord approval. Please have this information prepared. If an animal is in Foster Care, please bring in your adoption application and schedule an appointment to meet the animal. Call 831-454-7200 x0 during business hours or visit www.scanimalshelter.org for more information! n ••• Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s full-service, open-admission shelter: Santa Cruz Location (Public Entrance): 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 Hours: Daily 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Watsonville Location: CURRENTLY CLOSED 580 Airport Blvd, Watsonville, CA 95076 SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182 • After Hours: jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us
By Tony Tomeo
ept. 22 was the equinox. Here in the Northern Hemisphere, days will get slightly shorter as nights will get slightly longer. The intensity of the sunlight will diminish as the sun moves farther to the south. The weather will of course get cooler. In this particular climate, the rainy season will begin. Deciduous plants, as well as some evergreen plants, will respond accordingly to the changes. Deciduous plants defoliate as they go dormant for part of the year. A few defoliate through hot and dry summer weather. Otherwise, almost all deciduous plants defoliate for dormancy through cool and stormy winter weather. They are more resilient without foliage that is sensitive to both frost and wind. While days are short and sunlight is diminished, foliage would not be very active anyway. The foliage of many deciduous plants gets remarkably colorful during defoliation. Sweetgum, pistache and ginkgo are famously colorful. However, many deciduous plants, such as valley oak and silver maple, are not impressively colorful. Regardless, all deciduous plants that defoliate for winter will eventually start to do so, or have started already. Several evergreen plants shed debris too. Gravity is a force that is more reliable than weather. It pulls foliar debris downward onto roofs, roadways, decks, patios, lawns and whatever happens to be below deciduous trees. The timing of defoliation is ironic. Gutters and downspouts that were empty all summer now collect debris as the rainy
Civics 101 © Statepoint Media
Too many fallen leaves get messy.
season begins. They may need cleaning more than once if deciduous trees above defoliate slowly. While patios and decks get less use, they need more raking to avoid staining. Fallen leaves promote rot in turf grass and ground covers, and inhibit penetration of sunlight. At this time of year, it is difficult to believe that evergreen trees are generally messier than deciduous trees. Deciduous trees tend to defoliate only once annually, although some drop bloom or fruit separately. Evergreen trees drop about as much debris, but do so for a longer season or continuously throughout the year. ••• Valley Oak rom the northern end of the Sacramento Valley to Santa Catalina Island, valley oak, Quercus lobata, is as Californian as Valley Girl. It inhabits mixed riparian forests and low hillsides up to about 2,000 feet, but prefers alluvial valley meadows in between. Although unpopular for landscaping, it sometimes self sows into home gardens. New landscapes sometimes develop around old trees. Valley oak is one of the biggest of oaks, and the tallest oak of North America. Mature trees can be more than a hundred feet tall, Valley oak is the and several cengrandest oak. turies old. Trunks may be more than ten feet wide. Such big trees make big messes of acorns and deciduous foliage, which shed for weeks. Unfortunately, old valley oaks within new landscapes are susceptible to spontaneous limb failure and rot. Where space is sufficient, new valley oaks are for future generations. They develop their distinctively sculptural branch structure slowly through several decades. If irrigation is not excessive, roots are remarkably complaisant. The evenly furrowed gray bark is rustically distinguished. The elegantly lobed leaves are about three inches long and half as wide. Yellowish autumn color is subdued. n ••• Horticulturist Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo.com .
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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2020 / 31
HAPPY
TH A NK SGI V ING Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude and I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to all of my family, friends and clients, past and present. I truly have been blessed meeting such amazing families, and working with so many exceptional home buyers and home sellers. I wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving, a
thank You!
joyous holiday season and a happy New Year!
AMBER MELENUDO REALTORÂŽ 831.661.5591 ambermelenudo.com amber@davidlyng.com DRE 01921098
TO P 1% PRO D U CI N G AG E NT I N SA NTA C RUZ CO U NT Y