Capitola Soquel Times: March 2021

Family Owned For Over 30 Years • Capitola, Soquel, Live Oak, Pleasure Point

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March 2021 • Vol 26 No. 3

Activists Making History in Capitola

By Yvette Brooks, Mayor, City of Capitola

As mayor, one of my goals for the year is to focus on equity in Capitola. At the City level especially, it is important that we attempt to create policy with an equity lens.

Full Story page 12

Soquel Kindergarten to Open March 15 Full Story page 11

Love & Kindness, Delivered

By Christine Loewe We are basking in the love and kindness displayed by our community in February.

Staff, volunteers, and community partners distributed hundreds of handmade Valentine’s to local seniors living alone or in care facilities. Started as a project on Martin Luther King Day 2021, community members designed

and dropped off cards to our office throughout January and early February in prep for Valentine’s Day delivery.

From the scribbles of our littlest kiddos to beautiful artistic creations designed by Kaiser Permanente employees, we loved seeing the thought and care that went into each of the cards dropped into our delivery bins! ... continues on page 4

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Soquel Creek: A Year’s Worth of Trash

Sometimes while using a pedestrian footbridge near my home I noticed litter, but below the bridge is an informal place where people occasionally hang out and it was a mess.

Full Story page 5

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No. 3

Volume 26

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Table of Contents

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Cover Love & Kindness, Delivered, By Christine Loewe

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Community News Soquel Creek: A Year’s Worth of Trash, By Craig R. Wilson Should New Park Celebrate Henry Rispin?: Mayor Seeks Input After History Comes To Light, By Jondi Gumz NAMI Basics Class Starts March 9 • New Superintendent for Mountain School District • Santa Cruz Symphony Scholarship Deadline • Sewer Rehab Means Traffic Delays • FTB Suspends Tax Refund Offset • New board chair at Rail & Trail Friends • Hunting, Fishing Rules Go Digital • Visit Santa Cruz County Seeks Nominations New Push for Hotel Worker Rehiring Rights, By Jondi Gumz Soquel Kindergarten to Open March 15, By Jondi Gumz Habitat’s Women Build Week: Campaign to Raise $10,000 and Awareness of Local Housing Challenges Father, Son Reunited: Monarch Services Offers Positive Solutions Again,

By Delphine Burns PVA Poster Contest Deadline Extended Foundation Details Grant Process Rio Unveils Banff World Tour Epic Bundle Costume Shopping? Goodwill Can Help • $2.75 Million to Aid Santa Cruz County Distressed Businesses Delightful Meal from Chef Gus Trejo at Jack’s Patio in Santa Cruz, By Jondi Gumz REI Co-op To Open in Santa Cruz This Fall, By Jondi Gumz

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California News Will Gov. Newsom Survive the Recall?, By Phil Trounstine and Jerry Roberts

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National News Is The Tradeoff For Getting $15-An-Hour Minimum Wage Worthwhile?

In Memoriam 14 Sally Jane vanKaathoven: Jan. 12, 1946 - Feb. 12, 2021

Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – Forty Days & Forty Nights: Preparing for Spring, By Risa D’Angeles Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29

Featured Columnists 12 Activists Making History in Capitola, By Yvette Brooks, Mayor, City of Capitola 19 1940s Pleasure Point Beckoning Surfers, Photo Essay by Carolyn Swift 24 Helping Kids Learn About Water Sustainability, By Rebecca Gold Rubin 24 A Blueprint To Safely Reopen Fitness Centers, By Richard Carmona 27 Environmentally Speaking, Contact Lens Recycling & Free Mattress Disposal, By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District 30 Live Oak Parking, Tiny Homes, ADUs on Horizon, By Manu Koenig, First District Supervisor 31 Don’t Prune Flowering Trees Until Spring, By Tony Tomeo

SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 31 – Del Sol Is Ready to Wake You Up!

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COVER STORY Patrice Edwards Jondi Gumz

publisher editor

contributing writers Christine Loewe, Craig R. Wilson, Jondi Gumz, Delphine Burns, Phil Trounstine, Jerry Roberts, Risa D’Angeles, Yvette Brooks, Carolyn Swift, Rebecca Gold Rubin, Richard Carmona, Zach Friend, Manu Koenig, 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 media consultants Don Beaumont, Teri Huckobey, Brooke Valentine office coordinator Cathe Race distribution Bill Pooley, James Hudson

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 ©2021. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission

“Valentine Volunteers” from page 1 We are nearly a year into pandemic life and while it has been challenging for so many, it has been especially difficult for seniors living alone. From our daily interactions with local seniors, we know that every reach out creates a greater sense of hope and is so invaluable.

The prolonged social isolation and decline in non-essential services to prevent the spread of Covid-19 have created unique challenges for older adults. Many seniors have found themselves not only cut off from social time with friends or family but also from their usual health and community support structures.

Some seniors are delaying basic health services due to the decrease in the number of appointments available or fear for their safety in public spaces.

And, recent studies indicate while older adults are less likely to report mental health challenges like loneliness and depression, individuals over the age of 65 are at much greater risk for the physical and mental impacts associated with pandemic isolation.

Throughout the last year, our senior programs team and volunteers have worked together to ensure that seniors receive the support they want and need from ongoing small acts of kindness like card making to grocery delivery and online education classes.

Most recently, at the Volunteer Center, we’ve launched the program Stay Connected.

Stay Connected provides older adults with the opportunity to access community

Seniors at Westwind Memory Care receive cards lovingly made by volunteers.

resources, safety information, and social connection.

“Our goal is to help balance diverging needs between maintaining distance for physical safety and achieving the mental health boost that naturally comes from daily connections with others,” said Volunteer Center Senior Programs Manager Tara Ireland.

The Stay Connected Program enables local seniors to get matched with a friendly caller for regular phone communication and for help with navigating community resources. Seniors get to choose when and how often they want to connect with their Stay Connected partner.

“We chat with seniors on a daily basis through the various programs we run about a host of concerns including how they can get help with household services, safely get their groceries or find out more about vaccines,” Ireland said.

“Often unspoken in these conversations is the simple desire to hear another voice on the line.”

She added, “It is our hope through this program that we can create stronger bonds

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 / March 2021 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Valentines delivered to seniors at Westwind Memory Care

for our senior community and help seniors persevere through these trying times by providing them with key resources and connections.”

Local seniors are invited to learn more about Stay Connected and the various services offered through the Volunteer Center Senior Programs including grocery shopping support, falls prevention resources, home safety, technology support, and basic vaccine information. Through ongoing calls with a knowledgeable volunteer, seniors can maintain a consistent line of patient and friendly support.

Seniors are invited to call 831-427-5070 ext. 115 or email stayconnected@scvolunteercenter.org to learn more.

We are also looking for individuals who are interested in volunteering to help seniors in the community stay connected. Volunteers are needed to connect with seniors over the phone to coach them through the resources that might be most helpful to them as they remain isolated due to COVID. Friendly Callers will be matched with a senior and will have the chance to build a meaningful ongoing relationship.

“A friendly voice may be the only human connection beyond the TV that some local seniors experience in a day and we believe that fellow senior volunteers will be the right counterbalance to ensure that no one feels like they have to go through this process alone,” states Ireland.

How to Help Volunteer with Stay Connected: Learn more about Serving as a Stay Connected Friendly Caller and determine if it is the right volunteer fit by attending a brief orientation. Online orientations are available every Wednesday from 11 a.m. to noon. RSVP for an Upcoming Orientation or reach out to Stay Connected Program Specialist Vanessa Mendoza at stayconnected@scvolunteercenter.org Card Making: Register with our ongoing Card Making Project and design cards from home. n ••• Cover Photo: Zoe Robinson, 12, a young volunteer holds up cards made for senior citizens in the Volunteer Center’s Stay Connected program.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Soquel Creek: A Year’s Worth of Trash

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By Craig R. Wilson

ometimes while using a pedestrian footbridge near my home I noticed litter, but below the bridge is an informal place where people occasionally hang out and it was a mess. I decided I would make a project of removing litter, making observations and keeping records at this site for an entire year.

The footbridge connects Paper Mill Road and Bridge Street, linking Old San Jose Road to Main Street. From here the creek travels nearly two miles to Capitola Beach where it joins Monterey Bay. During the year I visited the site thirty times and recovered 346 items:

February 2020 to 2021 Wrappers, containers, lids & butts............172 Metal cans.....................................................60 Plastic bottles...............................................41 Glass bottles.................................................26 Plastic, cloth, metal, rubber & wood........47 While some of the trash came from upstream, especially after rain, most of it was brought directly to the site. There is a convenience store about 500 feet away from the creek and about 85% of the litter came from items apparently consumed in the area.

Other items recovered from the site included a utility bucket, a metal box and a bicycle that was tossed from the bridge.

In July I found graffiti on the bridge and painted over it. The following week a tree under the bridge was marked with graffiti, which I lightly sanded to avoid harming the bark.

In the fall I found camping gear, a backpack and a bike, which was retrieved for safekeeping by a Sheriff’s Office community policing sergeant the day after it was reported.

On Christmas Day, my neighbors and I found that someone had thrown a children’s car seat from the bridge, entangling it in the tree branches above the creek and requiring an extension pole to remove.

I couldn’t pick up litter every time I crossed the bridge, but I always noticed.

Sometimes when I returned it was already gone, confirming that other people were actively caring for the creek. Twice while working under the bridge I found small groups of teens and spoke to them about what I was doing; they were respectful and when I returned, I found they had packed their trash.

As I became more familiar with this location, I noticed other things that needed attention.

I asked the County to replace outdated signage and to repair the safety lights on the bridge. There is a rusted automobile chassis that is embedded in the gravel and is much too large and heavy for casual removal, but I have not yet found an agency willing to recover it. There is a storm drain outfall on

One day of collecting trash

the opposite side of the creek that is loaded with shredded plastics but inaccessible.

Because most of the litter is food and drink related, I approached the manager at the convenience store to ask for increased efforts to clean up the roadway where customers park. n ••• Our creek needs our help. If you have ideas about how to approach some of these issues, I look forward to hearing from you. Email me at crwilson1225@gmail.com.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Should New Park Celebrate Henry Rispin?

Mayor Seeks Input After History Comes To Light

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By Jondi Gumz

apitola residents can look forward to a new park on the Rispin Mansion property, .86 acres purchased for $1.35 million by the City of Capitola in 1985.

As Mayor Yvette Brooks said in the online Capitola Town Hall update at the end of February, it’s been a long time coming.

After a 2009 fire turned the 22-room mansion built in 1921 into a public nuisance, the city spent $649,000 to mothball the property, fencing it to keep out trespassers. After that, the city spent $900,000 to bring a nearby path up to code, resolving a lawsuit by a woman injured when her motorized wheelchair tipped over on the path’s uneven pavement.

With the Great Recession and the COVID shutdowns, the city didn’t have the money to create a new park until a $383,000 state grant in 2014 made the prospect tantalizingly possible.

The city plans call for restoring the property’s historic features, such as the grand staircase, reflection pool, sundial, and fountain and adding new amenities such as a bocce ball court, a children’s nature area, gardens and interpretive displays, all with a theme of harking back to when the mansion was built in the Roaring Twenties.

In January, California State Parks

awarded Capitola $178,000 for the project.

That wasn’t enough to create the park as designed by Capitola resident Mike Arnone of MA+A Architects, “a gorgeous design” in the mayor’s opinion, estimated to cost $825,000.

But State Parks is making more grant money available.

So in February, the City Council approved the conceptual plans, a necessity to apply for a grant, and authorized applying for $482,000.

City Manager Jamie Goldstein said the city should find out this year whether the grant will be awarded.

“I’m excited ... It’s going to be a beautiful space,” said Mayor Brooks. “A place for children to play.”

She said she heard concerns at a city workshop in December, which took place online due to COVID, questioning whether the park should bear the name of Rispin, a San Francisco entrepreneur who purchased the resort area of Capitola after World War I and built the mansion as a showcase in hopes of attracting vacationers.

Historian Carolyn Swift, formerly curator of the Capitola Historical Museum, told the Times, “I studied and studied everything I could find about Rispin until I understood the kind of man he really was.”

Rispin Mansion

“Rispin” page 9

CALIFORNIA NEWS

Will Gov. Newsom Survive the Recall?

By Phil Trounstine and Jerry Roberts Editor’s note: People seeking to recall Gov. Newsom have until March 17 to collect the 1,495,709 signatures needed to trigger a recall election. If they turn in enough valid signatures, a recall election would take place 60 to 80 days of signatures being verified.

Longtime political experts Phil Trounstine of Aptos and Jerry Roberts wrote this analysis for CalBuzz.com ••• few months ago, when the Coronavirus pandemic was just getting real, a majority of Californians thought Gov. Gavin Newsom was doing a good job of managing the crisis.

Not so much anymore.

Today, only 31% of California voters give Newsom good or excellent marks for handling the “coronavirus pandemic” in a survey by Berkeley’s Institute of Governmental Studies, compared to 43% who give him poor or very poor marks.

And in the poll by the Public Policy Institute of California, registered voters are split almost equally with 49% approving and 46% disapproving Newsom’s handling of the “coronavirus outbreak.”

Which is why Newsom’s overall approval rating has dipped to 46% among registered voters in the IGS Poll and 50% among registered voters in the survey from PPIC. Much has been made of the difference between the findings of the two polls in part because IGS gave results for registered voters (46%) while PPIC focused on results from likely voters (52%).

But if you compare apples to apples – registered voters — the two polls are only about 4 percentage points apart on Newsom’s overall performance.

Bottom line, voters are not particularly happy with Newsom these days and his handling of the coronavirus pandemic/outbreak is the main reason.

(Also: rank partisanship abides).

What it Means for Recall ll of which suggests the drive to recall Newsom is likely to get on the ballot because Republicans hate his guts.

However, Prince Gavin is likely to survive a recall because Republican partisans represent only a small portion of California voters.

Our old friend George Skelton at the LA Times, along with Ben Christopher at CalMatters and Jeremy White at Politico have already done some fine reporting

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and commentary on New(For what it’s worth, the som’s standing in the polls dispositive 538 pollster ratings and his chances in a recall show that PPIC has about the election. They rely somewhat same high rating as the now on analyses from Mark DiCadefunct Field Poll had, but millo and Co. at IGS and Mark enjoys a much better rating Baldassare at PPIC. than Berkeley.)

IGS said, in part: PPIC uses live interviews Fueling the decline is and random digit dialing, the public’s much more which gives every telephone negative assessment of the exchange (land line and cell Gavin Newsom way Newsom and state phone) an equal chance of government are handling the panbeing surveyed, and they use an estabdemic. The latest poll finds fewer lished method to get someone from the than one in three Californians household on the phone.

(31%) rating Newsom as doing an This is classic polling methodology, excellent or good job in handling developed over decades to ensure that the pandemic overall, down from a random sample of the population is 49% last September. surveyed.

Also, just 22% offer a positive But it has become increasingly more rating of the job he and state govdifficult (and expensive) to get people to ernment are doing in overseeing take phone surveys. the distribution of the coronavirus PPIC’s response rate in its latest vaccines to the public. survey was about 5% for landline calls In addition, only about half (47%) and 3% for cellphones (although for have a great deal or some trust in those in the sample who had participated the way the governor and state in a prior survey it was higher — 44% for government are setting the rules landlines and 25% for cells). when issuing stay-at-home orders In addition, pollsters determine who or setting guidelines for business is and who is not a registered voter (or a to follow to slow the spread of the likely voter) by asking questions responvirus, with majorities describing dents may or may not answer truthfully, them as inconsistent (62%), conlike: fusing (60%) and ineffective (53%).

Are you registered to vote? What While PPIC said: party are you registered in? How much Assuming there will be a governor’s are you following the news? Do you plan recall election in 2021, the political to vote the next election? wildcard is the status of COVID-19 Every pollster has their own comin California. bination of questions to try to make In the January PPIC Survey, about half of likely voters say that COVID-19 is the most important issue for the governor and legislature to work on in 2021.

Currently, Governor Newsom has mixed reviews for his handling of this issue (50% approve, 47% disapprove). And less than three in ten give the state government an excellent or good rating for its handling of the COVID-19 vaccine distribution.

In contrast, seven in ten approve of the way that the pandemic is being handled by Joe Biden in his early days of presidential leadership.

Deep in the Weeds o, what are the key differences between these two surveys, much deconstructed and dissected in political circles, both produced by very fine pollsters?

sure they distinguish who is and who is not a voter, but it’s as much art as it is science.

In addition, some people are so suspicious of authorities, institutions and researchers they won’t ever participate in a survey, even when the call is from the Public Policy Institute of California and not some “partisan” or egghead caller like, say, the University of California Berkeley.

IGS, on the other hand, can’t afford the huge cost of live surveys (for the most part) and so has turned to online polling, with sophisticated abilities to target and engage voters in the actual voter file from the California Secretary of State.

But they have to invite about 190,000 voters to participate to get a sample of 10,000 voters. And they can only invite voters who have listed an email address, which is now about half the registered voters.

So, their effective response rate is also about 5%, and it’s a pre-screened group of people who have listed an email address and will go to the trouble of filling out the survey online.

They have the same problem that live calling has of Trumpistas, who don’t want to participate at all so their views can’t even be given weight to represent their share of the population.

Moreover, online surveys can’t claim to represent a random sample of voters because not every voter has an equal chance of being surveyed.

“Recall” page 10

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COMMUNITY BRIEFS NAMI Basics Class Starts March 9 AMI Basics is a free 6-week education program for parents and family caregivers of children and teens who are experiencing symptoms of a mental illness or whom have already been diagnosed. The next series is 6-8 p.m. March 9 on Zoom.

NAMI Basics is offered in a group setting so you can connect with other people. You’ll learn the facts about mental health conditions and how best to support your child at home, at school and when they’re getting medical care.

You’ll find out that you’re not alone.

Recovery is a journey, and there is hope. The group setting of NAMI Basics provides mutual support and shared positive impact—you can experience compassion and reinforcement from people who understand your situation. You also can help others with your own experience.

Topics include: Managing crises, solving problems and communicating effectively; how to handle stress; advocating for your child’s rights at school and in health care settings; current treatments, including evidence-based therapies, medications and side effects; and understanding the challenges and impact of mental health conditions on your entire family.

To register, visit https://www. namiscc.org/nami-basics.html For a free Basics on Demand, visit h t t p s : / / p u b l i c c o u r s e a p i . n a m i . o rg / Learner/Login?ReturnUrl=%2F ••• New Superintendent for Mountain School District egan Tresham, principal at Cypress High School in Live Oak, will become superintendent/principal of Mountain Elementary School District in Soquel on July 1, succeeding Diane Morgenstern, who held the post for 11 years.

Tresham, who has worked at Cypress High School since 2006 and become principal Megan Tresham in 2016, said she is excited to have a new opportunity.

Mountain School with about 120 students in kindergarten through sixth grade has a long history — founded in 1869 in the redwoods above Soquel village — and is known for parent support and awardwinning programs.

Tresham is looking forward to transitioning students and teachers from distance learning to in-person learning.

With that change on the horizon, she will be listening to the concerns of the community.

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Morgenstern is retiring after more than 40 years in education. She hopes to travel, but expects to remain connected to Mountain School.

••• Santa Cruz Symphony Scholarship Deadline he Santa Cruz Symphony is accepting applications for the 2021 Mueller Scholarship Program with the deadline to apply being April 1.

These scholarships will be used for “needy and deserving children” to pay for private lessons, youth ensembles, or youth music camperships. Individual grants usually range from $300-$1000.

Music students who are under 17 as of July 1, 2021 and residents of Santa Cruz County are encouraged to apply. Scholarships will be awarded on the basis of financial need, a regular practice schedule, and a demonstrated commitment of at least one year with an orchestral instrument.

Applications are at https://santacruz symphony.org/mueller-scholarships ••• Sewer Rehab Means Traffic Delays he Santa Cruz County Sanitation District announces that the intersection of 41st Avenue and Soquel Drive will be subject to traffic delays with potential lane closures between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5 p.m., from Feb. 10, through April 7, weather permitting.

These delays and lane closures are necessary for sanitary sewer improvements. Questions may be directed to Dan Valley at (831) 454-2373.

For up-to-date information on County maintained roads in Santa Cruz County, visit: http://www.sccroadclosure.org/ ••• FTB Suspends Tax Refund Offset n Feb. 22, the Franchise Tax Board suspended its income tax refund offset program until July 31, citing the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We hope this suspension will offer additional relief for taxpayers,” said State Controller and FTB Chair Betty T. Yee. FTB temporarily suspended collection activities of the Interagency Intercept Collection (IIC) Program to provide relief to taxpayers in keeping with Governor Gavin Newsom’s March 12, 2020, executive order. This means state tax refunds will not be reduced to offset taxpayer debts for parking citations, tolls, and various fines.

Debts for child support are the exception and will continue to be collected.

Taxpayers in financial hardship can apply for a payment installment

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plan online, by phone, or by mail. This includes court-ordered debts.

If a taxpayer receives a wage garnishment, bank levy, or tax lien, FTB will work with the taxpayer, which may include modifying or releasing a garnishment or levy, placing a hold on the collection account, or accepting an offer in compromise.

For suspended corporations and limited liability companies, FTB offers expedited services to revive the business for those prepared to file and pay the balance now or in the near future.

For help, see https://www.ftb. ca.gov/help/contact/phone-fax.html ••• New board chair at Rail & Trail Friends his year, Live Oak resident Faina Segal will chair the board of the Santa Cruz County Friends of the Rail & Trail known as FORT. “Transportation infrastructure in our county should reflect our shared values of inclusion, equity, sustainability, and economic opportunity for all,” said Segal, who joined the Friends of the Rail & Trail Board of Directors in 2019.

A customer experience manager for Cisco, she grew up Faina Segal in Watsonville and is passionate about improving access to opportunities for students in South County.

“FORT has been instrumental in advocating for expanded public transportation in Santa Cruz County, which I believe is a keystone investment to building a more equitable and sustainable future for our county,” Segal said. “I am honored to have this opportunity to give back to my community by being a part of this movement.”

She has commuted via Metro bus to Cabrillo, UC Santa Cruz and San Jose.

Since graduating from UC San Diego in 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in history and minor in engineering, she has worked in Silicon Valley building global partnerships.

Sally Arnold, FORT board chair for 2019 and 2020, credited Segal’s organizational and marketing experience with helping the group modernize its use of technology to improve communication with the community.

FORT is promoting the “Coast Connect” vision of a 32-mile coastal rail trail from Watsonville to Davenport, eco-friendly passenger rail between Watsonville and Santa Cruz, synchronized bus connections, and safe streets for biking and walking.

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Hunting, Fishing Rules Go Digital s part of an effort to go paperless, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife is transitioning to a digital format for its 2021 hunting and fishing regulations booklets and Big Game Hunting Digest.

Booklets will no longer be printed and shipped to license agents or customers, but electronic versions of the booklets will be available online.

“Not only is this shift best for the environment because of the reduction of many thousands of short-term paper booklets being produced, the cost to print and ship the booklets is significant,” said CDFW Wildlife and Fisheries Division Deputy Director Stafford Lehr. “Another benefit is that the money saved by going paperless will be redirected to fish and wildlife conservation.”

The transition to paperless regulations booklets follows a two-year effort to reduce the number of hard copy booklets printed and shipped to license agents and is consistent with the governor’s directive to reduce paper use.

As in past years, digital booklets are available at wildlife.ca.gov/Regulations and can be downloaded as PDFs to your computer, cellular phone or other electronic device. Hunters and anglers are encouraged to download the digital booklets to their mobile devices and familiarize themselves with the format before hunting and/or fishing trips.

••• Visit Santa Cruz County Seeks Nominations isit Santa Cruz County is accepting nominations for its 25-member Board of Directors. The deadline to submit nomination forms is Tuesday, March 16.

The board has representatives from regions of the county, 13 lodging seats and a cross-section of representatives of businesses, cultural, governmental and organizations with affiliation to the travel and tourism industry. Responsibilities include participation in governance of the organization, advocacy for the tourism industry, and active participation at board meetings six times per year. Board terms are two years and begin July 1.

The Nominating Task Force will review all nominees. For a nominating form, visit https://www.santacruz.org/wp-content/ uploads/2021/02/2021-Board-Nominating-Form-Application-fillable.pdf n ••• For info, email dharris@santacruz.org n

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NATIONAL NEWS

Is The Tradeoff For Getting $15-An-Hour Minimum Wage Worthwhile?

Editor’s note: California’s minimum wage is $14 an hour, raised $1 on Jan. 1. President Joe Biden has proposed raising the federal minimum wage, $7.25 an hour since 2009, to $15 an hour by 2025, then indexed for inflation. Here is a summary of the Congressional Budget Office analysis.

••• f enacted at the end of March 2021, the Raise the Wage Act of 2021 (S. 53, as introduced on Jan. 26) would raise the federal minimum wage, in annual increments, to $15 per hour by June 2025 and then adjust it to increase at the same rate as median hourly wages. In this report, the Congressional Budget Office

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“Rispin” from page 6 She learned he was an orphan who never went beyond high school, had dreams of being an opera singer and a theater actor, then married an heiress — the daughter of the founder of Conoco Oil. “He was part of a syndicate that wanted to develop land along the California coast, and was the front man,” she said. “Rispin wanted to become an oil millionaire. He wasn’t a slick operator, but he was in over his head … He didn’t have the skills.”

Deed Restriction vy Brown, a semi-retired lawyer, owns the last farmhouse left on Clares Street, built in 1927.

She does not want the name of Henry Allen Rispin on the city’s new park.

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estimates the bill’s effects on the federal budget.

• The cumulative budget deficit from 2021–2031 would increase by $54 billion. Increases in annual deficits would be smaller before 2025, as the minimum-wage increases were being phased in, than in later years.

• Higher prices for goods and services — stemming from the higher wages of workers paid at or near the minimum wage, such as those providing longterm health care — would contribute to increases in federal spending.

• Changes in employment and in the distribution of income would increase

spending for some programs (such as unemployment compensation), reduce spending for others (such as nutrition programs), and boost federal revenues (on net).

Those estimates are consistent with CBO’s conventional approach to estimating the costs of legislation. They assume nominal gross domestic product would be unchanged. As a result, total income is roughly unchanged.

Also, the deficit estimate above does not include increases in net outlays for interest on federal debt (as projected under current law) that would stem from higher interest rates and changes in inflation.

Those interest costs would add $16 billion to the deficit from 2021 to 2031.

The estimates in this report are based on CBO’s most recent economic forecast, released in February. CBO estimated the budgetary effects using techniques developed over the past two years. Those estimates are based on CBO’s estimates of the bill’s effects on the economic behavior of individuals and firms — which in this report refers to actions that change relative prices, the distribution of income, employment, and other economic factors.

That’s because the deed to her home has a restrictive covenant mandating who can and cannot buy the property.

It says, “That said property shall never be occupied by any person or persons other than of the Caucasian or white race … to their heirs and assigns forever.”

As Brown sees it, this is a racially restrictive covenant, which people in power used to keep individuals deemed undesirable out of neighborhoods, limit land ownership and acquisition of wealth.

Swift sees it differently.

“In those days, nearly all real estate deeds and rental agreements had covenants regarding race,” she said. “This was particularly true of resort areas.”

She added,” I would not brand Rispin a racist in his own time, or probably any

time, given that it was language picked up and forwarded on until somebody realized that ‘whites only’ not only didn’t apply, it wasn’t appropriate.”

Brown considers justifications to celebrate Rispin and name a park after him troubling.

She suggests a cultural sensitivity study be performed by independent parties with no financial interest when decisions are made to protect the public trust.

Mayor Brooks asked city staff to research whether Rispin’s name had “any issues,” and she expects a report back “in the next coming months.”

“It’s our due diligence to make we’re

headed in the right direction in terms of …what we are naming it,” she said.

“I appreciate everyone’s input on that matter. “It is really important we learn more about the history of Capitola and the folks that lived here.” n ••• Read about the park project at https:// tinyurl.com/Capitola-rispin-park (full URL: https://www.cityofcapitola. org/communitydevelopment/page/rispin-parkproject#:~:text=In%20July%202014%2C%20 the%20City,grounds%20to%20create%20 an%20approximately%20.)

Read about Capitola founding by Carolyn Swift: https://www.cityofcapitola.org/ capitola-museum/page/brief-history-capitola

“Minimum Wage” page 10

Pool in front of Rispin Mansion

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / March 2021 / 9

COMMUNITY NEWS

New Push for Hotel Worker Rehiring Rights

By Jondi Gumz

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hen COVID-19 struck Santa Cruz County last year, it hit the hospitality sector hard. Some 10,000 jobs at hotels and restaurants — a tenth of the county’s jobs — were lost by April.

With safety restrictions on travel, hotels and restaurants, only half of those jobs have returned.

On Friday, Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego) introduced Assembly Bill 1074, supported by hotel workers and their union, UNITE HERE Local 11, to make sure that when their employers resume operations, hospitality workers can return to work.

The bill focuses on hotel workers in guest services, food and beverage, cleaning and building maintenance as well as subcontracts for those services. temporary staffing and successor employers in case of an ownership change.

“California’s hospitality workforce has been decimated by COVID-19, and these employees deserve basic protections which will allow them to return to the jobs and wages they earned before the pandemic as the industry reopens,” Sen. María Elena Durazo (D-Los Angles), principal co-author of AB 1074, said. “This bill effectively addresses the concerns Gov. Newsom raised to our prior effort.”

Last year, Durazo, Gonzalez and Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D-San Jose) authored AB 3216, a right to recall and

“Recall” from page 7 So, they have to construct a representative sample based on sophisticated use of variables like age, gender, location, education, etc.

What this method does know for sure is they’re dealing with actual voters and even how often they have voted, all of which is in the voter file.

There are many more issues that confront pollsters using either method.

Needless to say, polling has become a hugely difficult endeavor, which the most recent presidential campaign revealed starkly.

But this much we know for certain: Gov. Gavin Newsom is facing voters who no longer thinks he’s the bee’s knees.

And the only way he can guarantee survival in office is to make people believe that California is doing a better job of containing the coronavirus, distributing vaccine, opening schools and businesses and slowing the death toll. n

outside the corporate headquarters of JC Resorts, which owns and operates hotels and golf courses, including Terranea Resort in Ranchos Palos Verdes.

That resort terminated much of its workforce amid the pandemic, without making a binding commitment to rehire longtime workers when the hotel reopened, according to Unite Here Local 11.

“Terranea Resort terminated us during the pandemic and took away our health care when we needed it most,” said Antonio Rodriguez, who worked as a banquet server at the Terranea Resort for 10 years and was recently hospitalized due to COVID-19. “My right to go back to work will ensure that I can get back on my feet and give my wife and three young girls a better future. Right now, I fear not

being able to pay my bills and rent after my young daughter was in the hospital for kidney failure… I must return back to work for my family.”

In June, Terranea told the Orange County Register staffing reductions and salary cuts were essential to the resort’s survival, and that furloughed employees would be recalled based on seniority.

Unite Here contends the bill is needed to prevent discriminatory hiring practices designed to cut costs by replacing longtime employees with a less experienced workforce at lower rates of pay.

Current law includes the Displaced Janitor Opportunity Act, which requires contractors and subcontractors awarded contracts to provide janitorial or building maintenance services at a particular jobsite or sites, to retain for 60 days employees employed by the previous contractor.

AB 1074 would extend that protection to hotel workers. Laid-off workers not given the opportunity would be able to file a complaint seeking hiring and reinstatement, with the potential for front or back pay being awarded.

Nearly 40 percent of all California jobs lost during the pandemic have been in the hospitality industry.

San Francisco, Oakland and Santa Clara have already passed ordinances to ensure hospitality workers have the right to return to their previous jobs. n

wages would otherwise be below $15 per hour would be directly affected, and many of the 10 million workers whose wages would otherwise be slightly above that wage rate would also be affected. At that time, the effects on workers and their families would include: • Employment would be reduced by 1.4 million workers, or 0.9 percent, according to CBO’s average estimate; and • The number of people in poverty would be reduced by 0.9 million.

This report also provides CBO’s estimates of its effects on spending for major health care programs, unemployment compensation, Social Security, nutrition programs, other mandatory spending; plus effects on revenues, discretionary outlays for wages of federal workers; net spending for interest; and uncertainty surrounding the budgetary estimates.

The report covers effects on employment, wages of affected workers, distribution of family income, real

(inflation-adjusted) output, pries, distribution of labor and capital income and interest rates. n ••• To read the analysis: https://www.cbo. gov/publication/56975

Workers laid off from resort jobs in southern California support AB 1074 to get rehiring rights. retention bill that would have required employers to give a former employee the name of who was hired in their place and the reasons why. It passed but Newsom voted it, saying it required sharing too much personal information of hired employees.

“Latinos have made up the backbone of the hospitality industry for decades.

Many stayed with the same employers for years in order to work their way up and earn a stable living,” Gonzalez said.

“When hotels and event centers can safely reopen, the least we must do is ensure workers can return to the jobs they previously held.”

She joined dozens of workers who caravanned from Los Angeles and Orange County to La Jolla for a press conference

“Minimum Wage” from page 9 Underlying the budgetary estimates are CBO’s projections of how pay would change for people directly or potentially affected by an increase in the minimum wage — that is, people who would otherwise have been paid hourly wages that were less than the proposed new minimum or slightly above it — and how changes in pay would affect the number of people employed.

• From 2021 to 2031, the cumulative pay of affected people would increase, on net, by $333 billion — an increased labor cost for firms considerably larger than the net effect on the budget deficit during that period.

• That net increase would result from higher pay ($509 billion) for people who were employed at higher hourly wages, offset by lower pay ($175 billion) because of reduced employment.

In an average week in 2025, the year when the minimum wage would reach $15 per hour, 17 million workers whose

10 / March 2021 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

COMMUNITY NEWS

Soquel Kindergarten to Open March 15

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By Jondi Gumz

year after the contagious COVID-19 closed public school campuses and forced a switch to distance learning, the 10 school superintendents in Santa Cruz County announced plans Thursday night to reopen elementary schools for hybrid in-person instruction in the wake of active cases falling below 450 and the anticipated move from the Purple Tier to the less restrictive Red Tier in a week or two.

Scotts Valley will be the first to return kindergarten and transitional kindergarten March 3, Mountain School on March 8, Soquel Union and San Lorenzo Valley on March 15 and Live Oak March 22. Pajaro Valley plans to reopen April 5.

Additional grades return a week or two later, with high school starting after the county is in the Red Tier. Summer school is being planned, and conversations about high school graduation ceremonies are beginning, although no one knows what the COVID case situation will be like in June.

Each day, about half the elementary students will be on campus, to meet the six-foot distance requirement.

Schedules will include morning and afternoon cohorts and alternate days, and families can opt for online lessons if they wish.

It’s not possible to bring all students on campus at the same time because of the state’s six-foot physical distance

requirement, Dr. Faris Sabbah, county superintendent of schools, explained. Private schools have done it because their class sizes are smaller so they’re able to provide the space.

COVID-19 has claimed the lives of more than 51,000 Californians and 183 Santa Cruz County residents, with 55 percent of those local deaths at nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Locally, 74 percent of those who died were age 80 or older and 77 percent had other health conditions.

Safety o keep students and staff safe at school, there will be surveillance testing, improved air quality with approved purifiers, students assigned to fixed groups, along with face coverings, handwashing, disinfecting and temperature checks to keep anyone who is sick at home.

Sabbah credited Dignity Health Medical Foundation and Dominican Hospital with vaccinating 4,500 teachers and support staff, about 70 percent of staff overall.

Dr. Nanette Mickiewicz, Dominican Hospital president/CEO, said vaccine supplies from the state made it possible to vaccinate Dominican’s 1,700 health care workers, first responders and others in the first priority tier, with more supplies coming from Common Spirit, the hospital’s parent company, and the county.

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“COVID Update” page 18

Photo Credit: Pajaro Valley Arts

New mural “Wear Together” by Watsonville artist Erik Davison is one of the Movable Murals, “An Act of Love: Mask Wearing During the Pandemic,” a project of Pajaro Valley Arts and the city of Watsonville and funded by the Pajaro Valley Community Health Trust.

Experts in matters of the heart.

At Dignity Health – Dominican Hospital, our cardiology specialists have your best interest at heart. From education, prevention and diagnostic procedures to advanced surgical treatment and rehabilitation, we consider your heart from every angle. So if yours is due for a checkup, don’t delay the important care you need. We’re here and ready to safely put our heart into caring for yours. Learn more and find a cardiologist near you at DignityHealth.org/DominicanHearts.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / March 2021 / 11

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Activists Making History in Capitola

By Yvette Brooks, Mayor, City of Capitola

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s mayor, one of my goals for the year is to focus on equity in Capitola.

At the City level especially, it is important that we attempt to create policy with an equity lens. It will take years to unravel the unjust behavior of people before us. But as a leader in our community it is my responsibility to move us forward.

In this article, you will meet several community leaders of color who have taken the initiative of moving our City forward in response to racism. They have made history in Capitola and are paving the way for others to do the same.

These change-makers have dedicated their lives to our community and it is important that we recognize them for their dedication and commitment.

•••

Keisha Browder

CEO, United Way of Santa Cruz County

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of well-being with the Santa Cruz County Community Assessment Project, the nation’s longest-serving collection, assessment, and utilization of community data that includes the voice of the residents.

Keisha co-authored “Leveraging Data for Meaningful Improvements: How Credible Data Enables Partnership Alignment to Achieve Well-Being at the Population Level” (Community Quality of Life Indicators Best Cases VIII, Springer).

She has 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, serving in executive leadership roles throughout the nation, raising nearly $60 million for community transformation in Alabama, Georgia, Illinois, Rhode Island, South Carolina, and now returning home to California.

Keisha serves on several boards including the United Way Worldwide Equity Advisory Council, Santa Cruz County Health Improvement Partnership, Dignity Health Dominican Hospital Community Advisory, Digital NEST Advisory, Santa Cruz Nonprofit Connection, Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast, and Monarch Services.

Keisha is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the National Coalition of 100 Black Women — Silicon Valley Chapter, and Soroptimist International — Watsonville Chapter. Keisha is a graduate of the University of Washington and the Stanford University Graduate School of Business Executive Program for Nonprofit Leaders.

Enrique Dolmo

Keisha Browder

eisha Browder is the Chief Executive Officer with United Way of Santa Cruz County. Their office is located on Capitola Road, Capitola — she is the first African American and person of color to serve as CEO in the United Way’s 80-year history in Santa Cruz County. She leads multiple county-wide initiatives addressing issues ranging from academic success to youth violence prevention and criminal justice reform.

This work led to Santa Cruz County being selected as the 2013 Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Culture of Health Prize Winners for their collective impact approach to equity, justice, and well-being.

Keisha also leads the robust tracking

New Brighton Middle School Campus Supervisor nrique is the Campus Supervisor and Athletic Director at New Brighton Middle School in Capitola. Enrique spent most of his childhood in San Jose. As an adult, he decided to make a career change from banking to education

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because of his love for coaching and children.

As a partner to wife Ashley Dolmo, a teacher for 14 years, and a father, Enrique focused his career path so it allowed him to be more involved in his children’s education. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Enrique recognized children needed to be active during the lockdown and worked with the School District to offer intramural flag football conditioning and golf.

As our County moves into a safer tier during this pandemic, Enrique is focused on safely bringing back sports to children in our community.

Superintendent Scott Turnbull had this to say about Enrigue: “Enrique Dolmo has served seven years as New Brighton Middle School’s Campus Supervisor. During ‘normal’ times, he is always present on campus to support students. Enrique also keeps track of lockers and serves as a coach and Athletic Director. He loves his job and working with everyone at NBMS. He enjoys building relationships with students and being a joyful presence on campus.

“A middle school thrives on having a lively school spirit, and this is where Enrique excels. For example, if you go into the NBMS Performing Arts Center during lunchtime on a Friday, you’ll get to see Enrique making his best DJ impression spinning tunes for students’ listening and dancing pleasure. During the Capitola Art & Wine Festival, you’ll see Enrique in the NBMS Parking Lot for long days directing parking and earning funds that all go to support NBMS Athletics. He is currently supervising a small cohort of students on campus to help them with distance learning challenges.

“Enrique is also now making an effort to safely bring back opportunities for NBMS’s student-athletes, focusing on golf and flag football conditioning. He does anything asked of him and always seeks to make attending NBMS a positive experience for students.”

Esabella “Bella” Bonner

Community Leader and Visionary sabella Bonner is a longtime Santa Cruz resident and community leader working to help bridge our local community. Bella is the visionary behind the Black Lives Matters march, a first to ever take place in the History of Capitola.

E Enrique Dolmo (right) with family

12 / March 2021 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

‘Bella Bonner In addition, Bella is the sole founder of Black Surf Club Santa Cruz which aims to promote both physical and spiritual wellness through surf and community for our Black and People of Color residents. She has been active in making changes in our community by increasing awareness, amplifying Black & POC voices, exposing implicit bias, and working collaboratively with community leaders.

Bella also co-founded Blended Bridge, a local collective that aims to help connect the community through education, community engagement and service in an attempt to “Bridge our Differences.”

“When I originally decided to target Capitola for a Black Lives Matter march I was extremely nervous and reluctant,” Bella said. “However, these feelings only magnified the exact reasons why a march through Capitola was necessary.

“There are various pockets around Santa Cruz County that feel less and less safe or inviting for Black and POC residents with Capitola oftentimes coming up as a frontrunner on that list. In the weeks leading up to the event, there was some hesitation and resistance from residents and business owners who didn’t understand how and why Capitola needed to join the conversation.

“However, with that resistance and uncertainty also came an opportunity for education, community, and solidarity — something that made Capitola Village shine brighter on the evening of July 1st.

“Overall, the event allotted the opportunity for Black and POC residents to share their stories and urge their neighbors to join in solidarity, education and action for Black lives.”

“Activists” page 15

COMMUNITY NEWS

Habitat’s Women Build Week

Campaign to Raise $10,000 and Awareness of Local Housing Challenges

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abitat for Humanity Monterey Bay its reaching out to the community to promote International Women Build Week March 8-15 to raise awareness of challenges women face in securing safe, affordable housing in the counties of Santa Cruz and Monterey.

The events will celebrate women as volunteers, recruit new volunteers, and focus on fundraising from private and corporate donors to finance home construction.

Community members and leaders can participate in three activities: An online conversation noon to 1 p.m. Friday, March 12 with women leaders on Habitat’s work, an opportunity to virtually volunteer, including an interactive “scavenger hunt” to educate people about how Habitat works and the diverse roles of women in the organization, and the fundraising campaign.

Panelists include Santa Cruz Vice Mayor Sonja Brunner, Monterey County Supervisors Mary Adams and Wendy Askew, former Watsonville mayor Rebecca Garcia, Habitat volunteer and Otto Construction project engineer Toni Little, Housing Trust Silicon Valley CFO Julie Mahowald, and future Habitat homeowner Kali Campbell. To register for the panel or to virtually volunteer, see https://secure.givelively.org/event/ habitat-for-humanity-monterey-bay/2021women-build/2021-women-build

The outreach campaign has adopted COVID-19-safe practices that leverage online participation.

The fundraising goal for this year ’s Women’s Build campaign is $10,000 to support construction of a home for Kali Campbell, a Santa Cruz mom chosen to move into a home on Rodeo Creek Court.

She joined Habitat eight months ago when she applied for and met the requirements to be considered as a candidate for the lottery system that guides the selection process.

Sponsorship levels for the March fundraising campaign start at $250, which can be made online at https://www.habitatmontereybay.com/womenbuild.

“Owning a home was unattainable before I connected with Habitat Monterey Bay,” said Campbell, who is scheduled to move into her new home in four months.

“This month I started my required volunteer hours, and I have never been more excited to support our mission. I am working to secure a home for my family, and I am investing my time to strengthen Habitat.”

A central focus will be to educate people about the power of community in Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Salinas, among other cities.

D I D YO U K N O W? We offer over 25 rebates for your home and/ or business, saving you water and money.

“Build Week” page 21

Volunteers participate in the 2020 International Women Build Week, painting wood slats. From left: Claudia Garcia, Veronica Schultz, Celeste McKeon, and Eriko Dryer, all from Grow Communications, Inc.

Your Community Partner for Reliable Water

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / March 2021 / 13

IN MEMORIAM

Sally Jane vanKaathoven

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ally Jane Pace vanKaathoven passed away peacefully in her home on February 12, 2021 with her beloved husband Neil by her side. She was 75 years old.

Sally was born on January 12, 1946 to Thomas and Ilene (Whitney) Pace in San Jose, CA. Brother Thomas William Pace was born 3 years later in San Jose, CA. She attended Jefferson, Walter Bachrodt, and Belden elementary schools, Peter Burnett middle school and graduated from Lincoln high school in 1963. She then went onto Chico State where she majored with a Bachelor in English and a Minor in Psychology.

As a young adult, Sally lived in various areas of California including Lompoc, Los Altos, and San Francisco.

At one point she even gave Canada a chance by living in British Columbia for six months. After working as an Eligibility Worker in San Mateo Co. Sally settled in as an eligibility worker with the Santa Cruz Dept. of Social Services in 1976. It was there she met her future

Jan. 12, 1946 - Feb. 12, 2021

and dedicated mother husband Neil van to her children. She Kaathoven. Neil was was heavily involved a resident of Santa with volunteering in Cruz with long family the Home and School history in Aptos, CA. Club at Mar Vista At the time of Elementary School their courting, Neil in Aptos where she had three young became a student children; daughters favorite. She had a Julie (Guy) 5 years, knack of crafting, Jennifer (McLachlan) sewing, and tutoring 3.5 years, and son her children. Sally Janah 2 years. Taking Sally vanKaathoven remained active in on an instant family of three very young children while in school affairs at Aptos Jr. High and Aptos her early 30s goes to show the strength High School. Sally and Neil never missed and love between Neil and Sally. They a single sporting event that their children were married on July 14, 1979 at Hollins competed in. Neil coached Gals softball House at Pasatiempo Golf Course, Santa and Little League/Pony League baseball.

Cruz. They settled into their new home As her children continued competing in in Aptos on December 1, 1979 where sports through high school and junior college, they continued to support the Sally remained until her passing.

In June of 1981 they welcomed their teams. Sally was a dedicated member fourth child Ryan Pace van Kaathoven of the Omega Nu, Dominican Guild, (La Selva Beach). Sally was a homemaker Friends of Hospice, and the Repub-

14 / March 2021 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

lican Women of Santa Cruz. Sally began employment once again in 2002 accepting the position of Course Accountant at Seascape Golf Course where she worked for 18 years. Sally was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer in May of 2020 and fought bravely until February 12, 2021, exactly one month after her 75 birthday.

Sally is survived by her husband and Muffin Neil van Kaathoven of 41 years, daughters Julie (Guy) and Jennifer (McLachlan), sons Janah and Ryan Pace van Kaathoven. Granddaughters Madelyn Shea Guy, Lauren Jane McLachlan, and Lucy Jane van Kaathoven. Sons in law Mark Guy and Dave McLachlan. Daughter in law Katharine Edson van Kaathoven.

She was preceded in death by her father, mother, and brother. n ••• There will be a private burial at the Santa Clara Mission Cemetery on Monday Mar. 1. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that those who wish to make a donation in Sally’s name to Hospice of Santa Cruz Co.

“Activists” from page 12

Joy Flynn

Community Activist, Respiratory Business Specialist

“Joy continues to amaze me with her leadership, activism and her tireless work in The Santa Cruz County Black Coalition for Justice and Racial Equity. I am honored to be friends and colleagues with Joy. “

“Dependable Service, Affordable Quality”

Fahma Abdulle

Seventh Grader at New Brighton Middle School ahma is a wonderful all-around student and is one of the best performers on New Brighton Middle School’s Accelerated Reader Program.

Carlo Albano spoke about the impact his fourth grade student is making: “I have had the true and sincere privilege to have Fahma Abdulle in my 4th grade class, and to have known her also as a classmate to my son as they progress through middle school. “ R e c e n t l y, I saw her by her home at the Emerald Bay Apartments.

Fahma Abdulle We talked about how things are going and I asked her what she thought about Distance Learning. She said that it could really be a good thing to have this time of focus on using technology and creating work projects online with tools that will be helpful in the future. As long as we do go back to school when this is all done.

“This reply helps to illustrate Fahma and her absolute inner compass of honesty, hard work, and excellence.

She has shown herself to be a bright and supportive friend to her peers, and is thorough and confident in her own individual learning and work.

“Fahma regularly has a smile and loves to laugh as much as she genuinely loves to learn and apply knowledge.

Truly, she is a special person, and I only wish her the best on her inspiring growth and future aspirations.

“Also, her mother and father are heart-warmingly generous and proud and love to share delicious East Aftrican food.”

••• These five social justice activists have left their mark in Capitola, unifying people of color, and their allies as well as being role models for students like Fahma. It is my honor to recognize all of them for their continued work in Capitola as they make history like we have never seen before. n ••• If you have any questions please feel free to email me at brooksforcitycouncil@gmail.com.

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Joy Flynn

oy is facilitating courageous conversations with the City of Capitola and its residents in the first ever Community Anti Racist Series Forum.

She is also the founding member of the Santa Cruz County Black Coalition for Justice and Racial Equity, recipient of the Officer Jim Howes service award and a Jefferson Award nominee.

In addition, Joy led the first peaceful action in the City of Santa Cruz after the public execution of George Floyd, which received national attention. Joy is a social justice leader and has spoken at multiple events such as Juneteenth, the Capitola BLM march and the BLM mural painting in the City of Santa Cruz.

In addition, she is a panelist for the neighborhood courts restorative justice program.

Joy is working on the community engagement piece of the ad hoc committee for policing and social justice reform with the city of Watsonville.

Joy is an advisor on the Black Health matters committee, board member for Second Harvest Food Bank and a friend of the Walnut Ave Women’s Center (their auxiliary board). Most recently Joy will begin working with the County’s Criminal Justice Council. Joy is a committed leader in our community and afar.

“Joy Flynn is a dedicated community leader in our community,” said Thomas Pedersen, founder of the Speak for Change podcast and CEO of Everyone’s Music School. “I connected with Joy when many people in the community suggested that I interview her for my podcast Speak For Change. We quickly realized we shared a lot in common with our upbringing and vision for the future of Santa Cruz County.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

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hile the COVID-19 pandemic presented unique challenges to the way we at Monarch Services traditionally run our programs and serve clients, we were able to adapt and adequately serve our clients, both individually and in group settings. One example of this success is the long-anticipated launch of the Positive Solutions program.

Positive Solutions is a group program for individuals who have caused harm in domestic violence situations. This program provides tools to stop abusive behavior, help participants develop an awareness of their emotions and change their attitudes that have contributed to their harmful behavior.

In October of 2019, we began offering intake appointments for our pilot Positive Solutions program. We received referrals from Family and Children Services and self-referrals. When COVID-19 hit, we had to restructure the program to be virtual, even though we had never previously offered it in person.

As one can imagine, there were many obstacles our group facilitators faced in piloting this program during a global pandemic. By the time the program was restructured to accommodate virtual participation, many participants were either unavailable due to the new schedule or our facilitators were unable to contact them.

Some participants did not have access to internet or a web cam, so were unable to log into Zoom.

Monarch Services offered support by purchasing wireless hotspots for these participants. Sometimes group engagement was challenging, as not every participant was familiar with Zoom and its functionalities.

Additionally, sometimes encouraging individuals to participate in the program was challenging as some shared that they did not feel that the virtual group was a “real” group. Our two group facilitators created group agreements with the program participants and worked hard to motivate and help them take responsibility when violating a group agreement, such as entering Zoom groups late. Our case manager

Positive Solutions is a group program for individuals who have caused harm in domestic violence situations.

This program provides tools to stop abusive behavior, help participants develop an awareness of their emotions and change their attitudes that have contributed to their harmful behavior. innovatively reorganized materials and binders to ensure these materials would be available to participants in a socially distant way.

Despite these challenges, there were many positive outcomes resulting from our pilot Positive Solutions program.

Since our first group of participants was small, there were more opportunities for each participant to share and interact with the group facilitators. The virtual and remote format also enabled some participants to join the group who may not have been able to if the group had been in person.

Ultimately, one participant successfully completed the group. Because of his success in the program, he now has custody of his son, has a stable job, his own home and is planning to go back to school to further his education.

We are currently finalizing a start date for our second Positive Solutions group.

This group will run for a full 52 weeks and we encourage referrals. Learn more about the program at https://www.monarchscc.org/programs-and-services/ positive-solutions-program/ To make a referral, call Dalia OchoaNavarro at (831) 800-2886. n ••• For questions, call Monarch Services, (831) 425-4030 or (831) 722-4532.

COMMUNITY NEWS

PVA Poster Contest Deadline Extended P ajaro Valley Arts and the City of Watsonville have completed the first phase of installation of the newest Moveable Murals, “An Act of Love: Mask Wearing During the Pandemic,” funded by the Pajaro Valley Community Health Trust Cares Act grant.

The “Wear A Mask” poster contest deadline has been extended to April 7.

The first phase of the project includes a digital rendering of the piece Wear Together by Watsonville artist Erik Davison; and two photo collages designed by Karen Lemon, digitized by Hedwig Heerschop, of photographs submitted by the community.

The second phase will include installation of four hand-painted murals called Flying Together by Watsonville artist Jaime Sanchez to be installed in March.

In November, Pajaro Valley Arts asked artists to submit mural ideas and/or photographs of themselves, family, friends, and/or essential workers wearing protective masks.

The intent was to feature art that demonstrates how personalities can shine through while staying safe and protected by masks.

The “Wear A Mask” poster contest deadline has been extended to April 7

Images submitted by Genevieve Daly, Kimberly deLucia, Brianna Flores, Linda Martin, Karen Lemon, Marianne Nagel, Joey Ontiveros, and Graciela Veg were selected, reflecting a beautiful range of personalities and interests.

The final designs were submitted to, supported, and approved by the City of Watsonville Parks Commission.

The photo collages and images by Erik Davison were printed on large vinyl banners by Safari Signs.

The City of Watsonville installation team included Grant Adams, Miguel Navarrete, and Rex Rackley. n ••• If this project inspires you, visit https:// pvarts.org/dev/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/ Call-for-Entry-Poster-Contest_Extendeddeadline.pdf

An Act of Love

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / March 2021 / 17

She said she met Sabbah at a vaccine clinic in Watsonville for ag workers when he asked her about vaccinating kindergarten teachers. That got the ball rolling.

Dr. Steve Magee, Dignity Health Medical Foundation-Dominican president, reported from the Harbor High School gym, where 27 vaccine clinics have taken place, reaching the target numbers of people age 65 and up.

“We are floating high with excitement,” said Diane Morgenstern, Mountain School superintendent/principal. “Like you, we have waited a long time to get to this next phase.”

Kris Munro, superintendent of Santa Cruz City Schools, said 1,000 students have been on campus in small cohorts since October, with no COVID transmission from in-person services.

“We feel confident the systems we have in place will keep our students and our staff safe,” she said.

Reaching Elders n Feb. 22, county health officials said more than half of county residents 65 and older have received at least one dose of vaccine, and as of Thursday it was 63 percent.

“It has taken a truly collaborative effort across the community to reach this point,” said Mimi Hall, Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency director.

With the 50+ percent target reached, the county is expanding vaccine access to workers in education and childcare, emergency services, and food and agriculture.

County Public Health is asking employers to arrange vaccination clinics for their workers. To begin that process, eligible employers must fill out a COVID-19 Vaccine Interest Survey at https://bit. ly/2NnFAUA. So far, 500 have done so.

As for people 65 and up who haven’t been vaccinated, the county urges them to schedule an appointment now.

For some, that has proven challenging, with a pinned tweet by a major local provider, Sutter Health, saying it doesn’t have enough vaccine supplies and advising people to check online for updates.

At the health leaders press conference Thursday, county spokesman Jason Hoppin acknowledged the frustration some have felt.

Hard To Get hecking santacruzhealth.org for vaccine availability one day, CVS in Capitola was fully booked and Walgreens hasn’t yet brought vaccine to California.

One new pharmacy with vaccine, posted this week, is RiteAid, 1988 Freedom Boulevard in Watsonville.

Kaiser, a big provider locally, was shorted on vaccine by the state, according to Dr. Gail Newel, the county health officer, but has now received more vaccine and is willing to vaccinate people outside its health plan.

O

C

To schedule a vaccine appointment, visit santacruzhealth.org or sign up at the state website, https://myturn.ca.gov.

To see what business activity is allowed see: tinyurl.com/ cdph-dimmer-framework-sept (full URL: www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/ DCDC/CDPH%20Document%20Library/COVID-19/ Dimmer-Framework-September_2020.pdf) n •••

“COVID Update” from page 11

County COVID Deaths 183 As of Feb. 26

Age 90 and up: 54 • 80 to 89: 56 • 70 to 79: 36 60 to 69: 26 • 50 to 59: 4 • 40 to 49: 3 30 to 39: 3 Race/Ethnicity White: 107 • Latinx: 60 • Asian: 14 Black: 1 • Amer. Indian/Alaskan Native: 1 Photo Credit: Pajaro Valley Arts

One of the Movable Murals, “An Act of Love: Mask Wearing During the Pandemic,” is a collage of photos submitted by community members digitized by Hedwig Heerschop and designed by Karen Lemon.

The first open appointment online at authorization, and it could arrive locally as the county’s vaccine clinic, 250 Main St. soon as next week.

Ghilarducci expects that having a third in Watsonville, was Easter Sunday, April 4, but the online sign-up system required vaccine in addition to Pfizer’s and Modthe second appointment to be scheduled at erna’s will speed up the likelihood of “herd the same time and no appointments were immunity” in the county, sooner than midAugust, his earlier prediction. available in May. So far, he said, Sutter Health leads in Nonprofit Santa Cruz Community Health in Live Oak is willing to accom- vaccine distribution, with close to 25,000 modate people 65 and up who have had doses, followed by Dominican, 10,000, and difficulty scheduling an appointment, county clinics, 9,000.

“We can expect to get 50 percent more with staff taking phone numbers, making callbacks and offering to let people know vaccine in coming weeks,” Newel said, assuming the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is when vaccine is available.

By Friday, the Sutter Health patient approved.

In four weeks, with Blue Shield portal was providing vaccine appointment taking over the vaccine distribution from dates for Saturday.

Dr. Newel predicts the county will the state, she expects there to be “more move into the Red Tier, which allows supply than we can administer. That will indoor dining and movies to open at 25 be a happy day.”

Newel addressed what she called percent capacity and gyms to open at 10 “myths” about the vaccine: percent capacity, in two or three weeks.

• It does not contain fetal tissue, she For the change, the county needs said, noting stem cells were used in to have lower numbers for two weeks. research but not in the vaccine.

The county’s adjusted case rate is 8.6 per • It does not cause infertility or miscar100,000; Red Tier is 7 or below. riage, she said, and it doesn’t alter Nearby San Mateo and Marin counties DNA. were fast-tracked into the Red Tier because • The side effects are mild, she said, of their low equity positivity rates, 3.7 soreness, a bit of fever, chills…very percent and 3.4 percent. Santa Cruz County short-lived , a few hours. is at 6.3 percent.

To a question about outreach to Third Vaccine r. David Ghilarducci, Santa Cruz undocumented workers, Jen Herrera, the County deputy health officer, is county’s chief of public health, said public excited about the Johnson & Johnson one- health is working with the county ag comshot vaccine, which was found to reduce missioner, employers, and Pajaro Valley moderate to severe COVID infection by organizations.

The state’s switch to Blue Shield 66 percent and doesn’t need to be frozen.

“It’s 100 percent effective at keeping age-based vaccine system March 1 won’t you out of the hospital,” he said. “That’s a have an immediate impact on Santa Cruz County, which is in the third wave, and is game-changer.”

A federal panel on Friday recom- scheduled to switch over toward the end of mended the FDA grant emergency use the month.

D

18 / March 2021 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Underlying Conditions Yes: 141 •No: 42 Gender Male: 83 • Female: 100 Skilled Nursing/Residential Care Santa Cruz Post Acute: 20 Watsonville Post Acute: 18 Pacific Coast Manor: 14 Hearts & Hands Post Acute: 8 Sunshine Villa: 7 • Aegis: 4 Maple House 1: 4 Valley Convalescent: 4 Montecito Manor: 3 Watsonville Nursing Center: 3 De Un Amor: 2 • Dominican Oaks: 2 Driftwood: 2 • Hanover House: 2 Maple House II: 2 • Paradise Villa: 1 Rachelle’s Home 1: 1 Rachelle’s Home II: 1 Valley Haven: 1 • Westwind: 1 Total: 100 Not at a facility: 83 COVID Cases by Town Aptos: 698 • Ben Lomond: 105 Boulder Creek: 134 • Capitola: 403 Felton: 134 •Freedom: 913 Santa Cruz: 3,430 • Scotts Valley: 370 Soquel: 315 • Watsonville: 7,674 Unincorporated: 219 Under investigation: 233 Total: 14,628 Source: Santa Cruz County Public Health ••• To view the Town Hall on schools reopening, see: tinyurl.com/ SCCed-town-hall-reopen (Full URL: https://santacruzcoe-org.zoom.us/ rec/play/yO7rBFlcybygn0c1VMMOuMTcWei9p45cyAigjmBcdIxh3Bw7CoDcz3H590dZsSQSp WyGYJj028HbZ77.ZfuTRrRE8cmwa6BR?star tTime=1614301224000) ••• Editor’s Note: Would you like to share your family’s COVID-19 story? Email Jondi Gumz at info@ cyber-times.com or call 831-688-7549 x17.

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Pictures From the Past

1940s Pleasure Point Beckoning Surfers Photo Essay by Carolyn Swift

A

sign for the Pleasure Point Surf Club was up in front of the Port O’Call Grocery in the 1940s.

Development was just getting started in the Opal Cliffs tracts late in the decade.

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Find a place to belong in our intellectually curious community. Join us at an upcoming virtual Admissions event to learn more about our exceptional college prep program and individualized instruction.

Visit kirby.org/register

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425 Encinal Street | Santa Cruz, CA 95060

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / March 2021 / 19

I

COMMUNITY NEWS

Foundation Details Grant Process

n 2021, Community Foundation Santa Cruz County will award community grant requests by invitation only. Invited organizations will be asked to submit a simple request form by March 15.

The foundation expects to grant more than $2 million from its discretionary grantmaking f u n d s .

D o n o r s direct more than 80% of all the grants the foundation awards to the causes they care about most.

The majority of these funds are restricted to benefit children, youth, and seniors, and are focused on education, end of life care, youth development, historic preservation, and human services.

Proposals will be reviewed in March with a staff recommendation going to the board for final approval April 1.

Asked why by invitation only, the foundation’s answer is, “We’re focusing on the relationships we’re building with current grant partners and look to support their organizational health. We have a high

grant renewal rate, which leaves little room for new partners.”

Last year, grants were awarded to 35 organizations from Watsonville to San Lorenzo Valley.

Many organizations the foundation

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C A S A O FS AN TA CR UZ. O RG / SI G N UP 8 31. 761. 2956 20 / March 2021 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

anticipates not being able to fund, and in that case, the foundation welcomes you to submit an “Impact Profile.”

These succinct profiles of your work allow foundation staff the opportunity to introduce donors to the work you’re

doing with optimism it will yield new attention, understanding, and resources toward your organization. Impact Profile forms will be available online starting March 26 and will be accepted on a rolling basis.

For those seeking help with the profile, a recording with writing and editing tips will be posted at cfscc.org.

The foundation anticipates providing grants from the Fire Recovery and COVID Response Funds by invitation only.

Contact grants@cfscc.org to see if your work may be eligible for funds dedicated to supporting people’s recovery from the impacts of the pandemic and/or helping the land and people to heal from the CZU fires. n ••• For details see cfscc.org or the frequently asked questions page https://docs.google.com/ document/d/1Yk8PHhMAyte874AC0ttW2rqst D3Tu0zVbO9eKqna80Q/edit.

If your question isn’t answered, email grants@cfscc.org or Kevin Heuer, Director of Engagement & Impact at kheuer@cfscc. org

Hope & Healing Memorial

P

acific Coast Manor in Capitola hosted a COVID-safe remembrance ceremony outdoors Feb. 18 as a tribute to loved ones.

Covenant Care organized memorials at all of its nursing homes on that date.

“Every one of our facilities stood united in a moment of silence on Feb. 18th at 5:30,” reported Heidi Stone of Covenant Care.

“Staff members prayed and our local director of nursing from sister facilities in Mountain View and Los Altos sang ‘Amazing Grace,’” she added. “A beautiful moment of silence.”

Nursing homes and assisted living facilities locally and nationwide have borne the brunt of the COVID-19 coronavirus. In Santa Cruz County, 100 of the 181 deaths have been at assisted living facilities and nursing homes. n

COMMUNITY NEWS

Rio Unveils Banff World Tour Epic Bundle A ll the programs? All the programs!

If you’ve been too busy getting after it outdoors, or just haven’t made the time yet, now’s your chance to catch all four Banff Virtual World Tour Programs in one epic bundle.

From mountaintops to wide open

12,000 KM: Swedish extreme skiers and snowboarders travel via train and boat from Stockholm through Russia to Japan, in search of deep powder.

“Build Week” from page 13 “We have a bold agenda to build more new homes in Monterey Bay than in any previous year,”said Kathy Arola, Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay board vice chair. “To achieve this goal, we need to strengthen our core, recognize the valuable work of women across our organization, and encourage others in the community to support our cause in any way they can.”

Habitat Monterey Bay has 11 units planned for construction over the next three years on Rodeo Creek Court in the Live Oak neighborhood, and expects to complete four homes for families in 2021.

In Watsonville, Salinas and other cities, Habitat is securing build sites and permits for 11 homes and three accessory dwelling units (ADUs) over the next five years, with construction on two due to be completed for families this year.

For the 15th consecutive year, Habitat for Humanity International is partnering with Lowe’s, which has awarded more than 300 grants to Habitat organizations

oceans, this bundle has adventure, sports, environmental, and cultural experiences for all to savor — over 8 hours of films for hard-core World Tour fans.

You have 14 days to watch all four programs.

One of the highlights is Piano to Zanskar, the 2019 Grand Prize Winner, which won a slew of awards after that.

Promoter Kathy Ferraro had hoped to bring this film to the Rio and then the pandemic hit.

“I am excited and thrilled that our community can now see this inspiring film, which has been edited for the World Tour,” she said. “It is an especially interesting story when juxtaposed against the piano that someone in Aptos abandoned and it landed on the beach as well as the cover of the Aptos Times.”

In Piano to Zanskar — what a more fitting end to a piano — to bring joy to the school children and community of Zanskar.

Even better is to know Sir Desmond, 65 at the time of the film and journey, went back to Zanskar each year to tune the piano until his death.

“This film unites a set of lovely characters so individual and multi-faceted, even a seasoned Hollywood screenwriter would have a hard time coming up with them,” `said Joachim Hellinger, a member of the 2019 film jury. “It takes us on a quest that seems to be crazy and anachronistic but is actually full of purpose and symbolic

in the United States, Canada and India, including $5,000 to Habitat Monterey Bay. The Women Build theme was conceptualized by Habitat for Humanity International to recognize that strength, resilience and perseverance of women is at the foundation of the 45-year old organization.

“We are always working to align the stakeholders who can help us build homes for people,” said Debbie Arakel, executive director for Habitat for Humanity California, the state support organization for 41 Habitat affiliates in California. “We are excited to bring together these policy advocates, corporate leaders, and local community members in March who represent the promise and possibilities of our success.”

In the past 30 years, Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay has built 55 homes for families in Monterey and Santa Cruz counties. More than 5,000 volunteers have logged more than 75,000 hours in construction, at ReStore, and by providing administrative assistance. n

Piano to Zanskar: Desmond Gentle, 65, must find a way to get this piano to a school in a remote village in the heart of the Indian Himalayas. power. Watching this film helps to restore the belief in a better world.”

While it’s not possible to replicate the experience of seeing the Banff films on the big screen of your local theatre, surrounded by friends and your community, these curated programs of amazing outdoor films are designed to inspire you to live life

to the fullest — however that looks these days.

The Epic Bundle is $52 or screen individual programs for $15. Buy tickets online through the Rio Theatre. See http://www. riotheatre.com/events-2/2020/11/26/ banff-centre-mountain-film-festivalworld-tour. n

Volunteers from the 2019 International Women Build Week

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / March 2021 / 21

COMMUNITY NEWS

Costume Shopping? Goodwill Can Help C ostumes aren’t just for Halloween anymore. That’s why Goodwill in Santa Cruz operates its costume shop year round.

The 1,000-square-foot store aims to be Santa Cruz County’s costume headquarters, appealing to kids and adults.

While gathering is on hold right now, it has been common practice to dress in costume for events such as Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, Burning Man, Mardi Gras, Comic-Con, renaissance faires, public sporting events, fun runs and even weddings.

When gatherings are allowed, parties with themes like the 1960s, Western, luau, ugly sweater may see a comeback.

And there’s cosplay (a blend of the words costume and play), a performance art in which participants wear costumes and accessories to represent a specific character or idea. Participants are called cosplayers, and go above and beyond copying their character’s outfits by mimicking their mannerisms and gestures as well.

“Halloween is a great time to dress up,” said Evelyn Matthew of Goodwill Central Coast. “But Goodwill actually saves things we think might be costume worthy throughout the year.”

It’s her job to help Goodwill shoppers find the perfect costumes — no matter how big or small.

“We help all age ranges here,” she said.

“There’s no limit to creativity and wanting to try something new and be someone else for a day.”

A short list of fashion pieces include: Overalls, coveralls, corsets, petticoats, tutus, lingerie, vests, Hawaiian shirts, ruffle tops, aprons, tuxedo shirts, gowns, capes, fake fur, feathers, wigs, cowboy hats, pinafores and belly dance coordinates.

“Have an idea of what you’d like to do, but if you don’t, we can help you,” she said. “And don’t worry about a specific

Evelyn Matthew (left), Goodwill’s costume maven, with a shopper (pre-COVID). color. Just because we don’t have the color you want, we might have the style you like.”

Another benefit is the ability to stay within a budget.

“You get costumes at a decent price at Goodwill,” Matthew said. “If you want to look at it as a retail price as if you went to a department store, we have it here cheaper for you.” n

$2.75 Million to Aid Santa Cruz County Distressed Businesses

O

n Feb. 18, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration awarded $6.7 million in CARES Act Recovery Assistance grants to help communities and businesses in California respond to the coronavirus pandemic.

One of the four grants will benefit Santa Cruz County.

NDC Economic Development Lending, Inc., will receive $2.75 million to establish and administer a revolving loan fund to support coronavirus-impacted small businesses in Santa Cruz County, and in the target cities of Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Scotts Valley, and Capitola. The project, to be matched with $687,500 in local funds, is expected to create 18 jobs, retain 138 jobs, and generate $1 million in private investment.

Sacramento will be helped by two grants and the Ontario Convention and Vis-

itors Bureau east of Los Angeles will receive $678,000.

Sacramento’s grants include a grant for $2.5 million to the West Sacramento region, while California Academy for Economic Development, Sacramento, will receive $782,788 to expand their Outsmart Disaster Campaign.

This statewide education and training campaign is designed to provide the resources that businesses need to adequately prepare for and recover from all types of disasters. The project will be matched with $195,697 in local funds.

“EDA is committed to helping communities across the nation implement strategies to mitigate economic hardships brought on by the coronavirus pandemic,” said Dennis Alvord, acting assistant secretary of commerce for economic development.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has deci-

22 / March 2021 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

mated our local economies,” said U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (CA-03), “and this muchneeded funding will help local businesses keep the lights on and create and retain jobs.”

These projects are funded under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, which provided EDA with $1.5 billion for economic assistance programs to help communities prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus. This assistance, which is being administered by the office’s Economic Adjustment Assistance program, provides a wide-range of financial assistance to eligible

communities and regions as they respond to and recover from the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. n

COMMUNITY NEWS

Delightful Meal from Chef Gus Trejo at Jack’s Patio in Santa Cruz

W

By Jondi Gumz

I’ll tell you what I ate but first, I must ow! That is how I’d describe my meal at the Jack’s Patio, the new point out that my husband agreed to COVID-safe dining spot outside accompany me even though nothing on the menu piqued his interest. He’s hard to the Santa Cruz Dream Inn. Kudos to executive chef Gustavo please when it comes to food.

Chef Gus offered us a tasting menu, Trejo, who has been commuting for work from Monterey since October. He gets his and we said, sure.

First came the creamy and yummy produce, meat and fish from locals — thank clam chowder, with you, Dick Swank’s Yellow Finn potatoes, organic farm in Hola hint of bacon, and lister and Colleen hearty recognizable Logan of Savor the clams. My husband Local — and puts pronounced it very these fresh and seagood and ate it slowly sonal ingredients because he wanted to together in a most savor it. delightful way.

Next came a Chef Gus grew pair of Dungeness up in San Diego but crab cakes, a special he spent time with relatives in Portugal Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz treat given that the — Portuguese was Ribeye steak — done to perfection — with grilled season was delayed until Dec. 23 and then his first language — asparagus and creamy polenta. crabbers went on and had sponsorship to cook in Spain. He was sous chef for four strike for higher price until mid-January. years at Nick’s Fish Market Maui, then This crab, surrounded by crunchiness, was executive sous chef eight years at Carmel juicy, topped by Daikon radish, adding Valley Ranch and two years executive chef more crunch, and a clever crab claw at Esteban Restaurant at Casa Munras garnish, with a zesty remoulade sauce on the side. Again, my husband pronounced it Garden Hotel & Spa. When the honchos at Carmel Val- very good, even though seafood has never ley’s Bernardus Lodge & Spa, owned by been his favorite.

A salad of baby lettuce – including Ensemble Hotel Partners since 2013, told him of the opening at the sister restaurant frisee, arugula and rarely seen Mizuna in Santa Cruz, he was ready for a new — topped with a delicate citrus and olive oil vinaigrette, grilled asparagus and challenge.

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

The ocean view outside the Dream Inn, if you arrive early enough to watch the sun set.

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Executive chef Gustavo Trejo at Jack’s Patio, the outdoor dining area at the Santa Cruz Dream Inn. tiny pieces of orange and blood orange –when have you seen this in a salad? — glistening like jewels. It came with fresh country bread, warm and toasted, perfect for mopping up vinaigrette. Again, very tasty. My husband, who normally does not request asparagus, ate every morsel.

For the entrée, we had rib-eye — a Goldilocks steak, not overdone, not underdone, just right, so tender with each bite a delicious mouthful. Joining it on the plate: Creamy polenta with tender but crunchy grilled asparagus. Needless to say, we ate every bite.

I wish we would have had room for the fresh Pacific catch but based on what had been served up, we were curious about dessert.

Happy surprises again! Lemon meringue with a zingy berry sauce — strawberry and pomegranate, a combination I hadn’t expected — and “midnight chocolate cake,” which tasted like a rich dark chocolate mousse. Yes, we cleaned our plates!

My question for the chef: Does he offer cooking lessons?

Starters range from $5-18, soups and salads $5-15, and entrees $18-40. Kids’ dinner, choose one of four entrees, with drink, $12.

My only suggestion would be to add to the descriptions on the menu – a mere sheet of paper right now -- to give potential diners a clearer idea of what will be served.

Chef Gus is looking forward to when he can expand the menu and serve people

inside, instead at picnic tables with outside heaters to keep you warm.

Why wait? If you can get a meal this satisfying right now, why wait? n ••• Jack’s Patio, 175 W. Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz. Serves breakfast Friday-Sunday 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (curbside pickup Wednesday-Sunday) and dinner Thursday-Sunday 4:30-9 p.m. (curbside pickup Wednesday-Sunday). Phone: 831-460-5013 or book online at https://www. jackoneillrestaurant.com/

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Desserts: Lemon meringue with strawberry-pomegranate glaze and midnight chocolate cake with Grand Marnier ganache.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / March 2021 / 23

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Helping Kids Learn About Water Sustainability

By Rebecca Gold Rubin

T

he District is involved in many partnerships, as we carry out our mission of providing a clean, safe, reliable water supply for today and the future. And when it comes to the future, we think about what kind of world we’ll leave to today’s children in our community, as well as their children, and beyond.

One of our community partners, which also thinks along these lines, is the Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery (MOD). This beloved local nonprofit focuses on creating an interactive learning environment to inspire and challenge kids and families about the world around us – including the value of water, water sustainability, and using water wisely. We’re proud to partner with MOD in the creation of its remarkable new environmental education/water conservation “Eco Home” interactive exhibit.

Construction of this creative, fun, and educational exhibit got underway at the museum in mid-2019. With some periodic

work continuing during the pandemic, the project is now complete. The District, the MOD staff, and the families of Santa Cruz and other coastside communities are all looking forward with great anticipation to the post-pandemic day when everyone can come together to experience the Eco Home together.

The Eco Home is a 15’ x 15’ three-wall miniature house designed to demonstrate sustainable living concepts to kids and their parents or caregivers, with an emphasis on water conservation.

The MOD applied to the District for a $2,000 Water Education Promotion MiniGrant to help with the cost of creating the Eco Home. We were very pleased to award this grant, as the project supports local water-related educational events and programs with a major theme or activity promoting water education and conservation, drinking water quality, and/or local water supply issues – everything we want the community to better understand

and embrace!

In the true spirit of partnership, the District did more than provide this small, but useful, grant. We were actively involved as this project came together – our staff attended planning meetings, helped to connect the MOD staff with other companies for additional funding and assistance, and provided some technical support as the exhibit came together.

We’re all very proud of the truly incredible results! When kids enter the Eco Home, some of the key water-related features they’ll experience include: • Interpretive materials around “Five Ways to Save Water in Our Homes” and “Ten Ways You Can Make Your Landscape More Sustainable.”

• An interactive rainwater catchment system with a “rain cloud,” rain barrel, and rain gutters to introduce the concept of reusing rainwater to decrease the use of groundwater, and

reducing flow into storm sewers and water treatment systems.

• An interactive, child-sized clothes washer and dryer illustrating sustainable laundry practices including elements of a grey water system directed outside the Eco Home to “water” a fruit tree in the exhibit’s “yard.”

“Water Sustainability” page 27

A Blueprint To Safely Reopen Fitness Centers

By Richard Carmona

Editor’s Note: This column is being reprinted from CalMatters, a nonprofit nonpartisan newsroom committed to explaining California policy and politics.

••• s Gov. Gavin Newsom lifts the state’s stay-at-home orders, considerable focus is being placed on which businesses can safely reopen. While staying home is the safest way to mitigate risk, keeping people in their homes is difficult and can ultimately be deleterious to physical and mental health.

Physical inactivity has increased significantly in the past 10 months, which is problematic for cardiovascular health and immunity. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study found the pandemic has increased levels of anxiety and depressive disorders among high-risk populations, including racial and ethnic minorities, essential workers, caregivers, and 1 in 4 young adults have contemplated suicide during the pandemic.

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Exercise, however, has been shown to dramatically improve both physical and mental health outcomes, but for many, the only safe place to work out is a fitness center.

24 / March 2021 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

In California where open-air workouts could resume soon, the closure of indoor fitness centers has come under scrutiny.

Contract tracing data from New York State

shows that fitness centers are not major spreaders of the virus, accounting for just 0.06% of community spread in states where they are open — lower than retail stores, construction sites, salons and auto dealerships.

As U.S. Surgeon General, I coordinated with states to create a uniform national policy for health. Today, we have some state leaders, including New York’s Gov. Andrew Cuomo and New Mexico’s Gov. Lujan Grisham, who, understanding the low-risk associated with gyms, have reopened fitness centers with appropriate public health measures in place.

Meanwhile in California, leaders have encouraged citizens to “get outside,” or “take a walk on the beach” for exercise.

Newsom tweeted recently that “mental health is physical health,” and “staying active & connected right now is so important.”

“Fitness Centers” page 26

COMMUNITY NEWS

REI Co-op To Open in Santa Cruz This Fall

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By Jondi Gumz

n Feb. 18, REI Co-op, the outdoor retailer, announced plans to open a store in Santa Cruz in fall 2021 at the former Toys R Us at 1660 Commercial Way. “The Santa Cruz community is passionate about their outdoor places and REI is excited to bring a store to the area to connect with the community even more,” said Kirk Peterson, REI regional director of Northern California.

“We have a lot of REI members that live or recreate around Santa Cruz, and this new location will be a hub to provide resources, expertise and gear for residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors.”

REI expects to hire nearly 50 employees for the Santa Cruz location, which is next to Marshall’s and has been vacant for almost three years.

At 22,622 square feet, the space seems large but it will include a professional bike shop and ski shop service, and it’s close to the average REI store size of 24,000 square feet.

The store is expected to offer virtual classes, workshops, and guided outdoor experiences with programming such as Learn to Kayak, How to Ride a Bike, Backcountry Navigation with a Map and Compass and more. Popular day trips like REI’s Bike N Brews Tour: Santa Cruz Coast are expected to return once the COVID-19 pandemic fades.

In the past five years, REI reports such classes and trips helped 110,000 people

in northern California connect to the outdoors.

In Santa Cruz, REI will compete with Patagonia Outlet, still privately held by its founder, the publicly traded chain Big Five Sporting Goods chain, Helm of Sun Valley with ownership in San Jose, and locally owned Down Works, Outdoor World Sporting Goods and numerous bike shops.

The landlord is locally owned Redtree Properties, which assembled the properties in the area for a development that initially included the computer store Circuit City.

Soon CVS will begin construction on a drive-through pharmacy at 1515 Commercial Way, forcing Décor Furniture into a going-outof-business sale.

Numerous brand-name retail chains have been burdened with debt by private equity owners who expected big payouts on borrowed money. Payless ShoeSource, Gymboree, and The Limited are among those that struggled and closed.

In contrast REI, founded in 1938 as a member-owned co-op, is on a growth spurt. There are 168 stores currently with new ones planned in Tampa, Jackson, Wyoming, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania and Orland Park, Illinois.

Last year — despite COVID-19 — openings took place in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Appleton, Wisconsin, Columbia, South Carolina, Wichita Kansas, Billings, Montana and Gainesville, Florida.

REI Santa Cruz will be the co-op’s 15th location in Northern California where 1.4 people are lifetime REI members. The stores closest to Santa Cruz have been Saratoga and Marina, a 90-minute round trip at minimum and more with traffic.

In the last five years, REI reports investing $3.4 million in local outdoor nonprofits in the region to get people outside, with $125,000 directly benefitting the Santa Cruz community. This includes support for local nonprofits like Ventana Wilderness Alliance, Mountain Bikers of Santa Cruz,

March Madness

ACROSS

1. Theories 5. T in Greek 8. Tarzan’s mother, e.g.

11. Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, e.g.

12. Ingredient in talcum powder 13. Spectator 15. 5,280 feet 16. Tiny river 17. Note taker 18. *Last NCAA basketball winner 20. Any day now 21. Antiquarian’s concern, pl.

Future location of an REI sporting goods store.

Ecology Action and Sempervirens Fund.

Such support is expected to continue, REI said. n ••• To join the REI team, apply online at REI. com/jobs Candidates must set up a job alert to be notified when positions are posted for the Santa Cruz store. New employees will get professional growth opportunities, 50 percent off REI gear and apparel and 30 percent off brand gear and apparel, competitive pay and retirement plan, two paid “Co-op Way Days” each year to get outdoors and paid day off on Black Friday to #OptOutside.

22. Diana Ross and Michael Jackson movie, with The 23. Saw a nightmare 26. Caribbean rattles 30. Witch’s spell 31. Flocked-to destinations 34. Goo or slime 35. Plural of ostium 37. Leo mo.

38. Eurasian goat-like antelope 39. Showing signs of use 40. “Yo, ____!”

42. *Nothing but it 43. Wrap a baby 45. *____-elimination 47. Outrage 48. Fraternity K 50. One of the Bridges 52. *____ 1 schools only

55. ____less but pennywise 56. Decanter 57. In a frenzy 59. Threesome 60. Turkish monetary unit, plural 61. Dumpy establishment 62. Common conjunction 63. New York time 64. Male deer

DOWN

1. Singular of #1 Across 2. Rikers Island weapon 3. Burkina Faso neighbor 4. Himalayan mountaineer 5. Tarnish 6. “____ ____ fair in love and war” 7. *School with most

NCAA basketball titles 8. Choir member 9. Hammer part 10. Blunder 12. Sad, to mademoiselle 13. Radio studio sign 14. *Mid-major school that’s become major powerhouse 19. Kind of ray 22. Is no longer 23. Arabian sailing vessels 24. Restart from seed 25. Uncredited actor 26. The Wise Men 27. Acting as a prompter 28. Snow impression 29. Eric Heiden’s “shoe” 32. *Oklahoma State’s super freshman ____ Cunningham 33. Mixed breed puppy

36. *2021 NCAA Tournament location 38. What Edward Scissorhands does 40. Stout relative 41. Dream big 44. Ancient Celtic priest 46. Water nymphs 48. Fuzzy fruit, pl.

49. Deflect 50. Sanders’ campaign slogan “Feel the ____” 51. “National Velvet” author Bagnold 52. Expunge 53. Fail to mention 54. Scotia preceder 55. School-related org.

58. Liquor store pony © Statepoint Media

Answers on 31 »

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / March 2021 / 25

Forty Days & Forty Nights: Preparing for Spring

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Esoteric Astrology • March 2021 • By Risa D’Angeles

ith Ash Wednesday (“from dust thou art and unto dust we shall return”), the day after Mardi Gras, we began the season of Lent (Old English for “springtime”), forty days and nights of purification, preparing us for the Three Spring Festivals (Aries, Taurus, Gemini), for spring equinox, for Holy Week, Passion Week, Palm Sunday and for Easter.

Everything is holy, everything biblical. During Lent we create new rhythms, overriding the old habit, no longer useful.

Whether we know, understand, comprehend or recognize it or not, everything is holy. Everything is biblical. And the events, the crisis we are all experiencing at this time in the history of our country and our world, they too are biblical. And the outcome will be biblical.

Whereas our history books are the history of wars, the reality is humanity’s true history is the history of our awakening, a history of consciousness and of slow development towards a greater state of knowing.

The history of humanity is the history of its religions. Each ARIES

A time of great change has arrived for you personally. You will find yourself in time, breaking with the past, attempting new endeavors and different ways of presenting yourself to the world.

All relationships will assume different priorities, themes and hues, meaning everything becomes unconventional. Including your appearance. You will love it all.

religion within each Age is the history of humanity’s developmental stages for the last eighteen million years.

We (humanity) have been here on Earth for eighteen million years. And will be continuing on for eighteen million more years, reincarnating thousands of times, in every culture, in all races, in different colors, speaking different languages. The kingdom is colorful, and we, humanity, the most colorful of all. Here we are beginning the Age of Aquarius. Aquarius is everyone’s friend. As Aquarius serves the world, Pisces saves it.

Mercury was retrograde when Lent began.

Mercury remains in its retrograde shadow until March 13th. Things move very slowly forward till then. During Mercury’s shadow phase, new information approaches us.

We continue to assess, order and organize, eliminate what is no longer needed, so the future has room to make its appearance.

Lent is a time to create new rhythms. When we create new rhythms, what is no longer useful falls away. What new rhythms can we think about creating for Lent? What can we cultivate that is good, creating a new circulatory flow?

LEO

Do you sense the new economy coming forth? Do you sense money, finances, investments and legal issues affecting your life are changing, becoming somewhat erratic without controls? We are told these days to use our money for education and future safety. Your keen intuition is telling you to keep track of all market ups and downs and realize sudden changes may occur in business and relationship interactions. What is there for you to hold onto?

SAGITTARIUS

Perhaps there will be another change to your home life. You want freedom to come and go at will, tending to all needs and phases of your life. You want different and unusual living conditions. More structured leisure, too. Although you love family traditions, they are counter to your needs at this time.

The foundations of your entire life feel unreliable and changeable. This persists. It’s difficult but proves to be part of what creates your unexpected bright future.

TAURUS

Someone or something is asking you to adopt a new and different value system, one that is not your usual, traditional, conventional and learned way of being. You resist. That’s OK. However, there may be consequences. Perhaps you don’t know what they are yet. It’s a good idea to ponder upon these things. The old ways are in the way, everywhere, hindering you. There must be a clearing, cleansing, elimination. You can do it.

Some Virgos may unexpectedly fall into relationships, marry perhaps, without much thought.

Some will divorce with even less. Other Virgos will be aware that strange things could occur within all interactions and relationship; erratic behaviors, a need for independence, major upsets and unexpected changes. Some Virgos will be shocked. Others will take this in stride.

Astrologically aware Virgos will know that all’s well.

And love underlies all happenings.

Your thinking and communicating might become quite revolutionary to those around you. Gradually, spontaneously or unexpectedly (Uranian words) you realize the need the freedom, the gift of Uranus. You become involved in advanced, new thought thinking. Very few may think like you. A sense of aloneness develops until you stand on your own, assert your rights and find your group. Off you go, at a moment’s notice. People smile as you speed by.

GEMINI

LIBRA

Aquarius is the friend to everyone. When you hear someone in need you always say with graciousness, “How can I help? Call me. I’ll help you.” In the work of the Wisdom teachings, the disciple is always asked to “look for, see and recognize the need” in all situations and to assist in filling that need. In this way the Aquarian task of serving others (humanity) is always in the forefront. When one serves, one is also “served.” What one gives, one receives.

SCORPIO

You develop a deep need to be independent and completely free, working best without anyone over you. Your environments must be orderly, clean and clear so that your mind can synthesize information, unobstructed, effortlessly, with ease and skill. You need to be in the company of creative people, artists and musicians.

People like yourself. Do not place yourself in limiting circumstances. That brings radical discomfort. You also need the beauty and fragrance of flowers. How can all this come about?

VIRGO

AQUARIUS

Flashes of insight become commonplace and grow each day. They give you information concerning decisions and what action is best to take. More and more your ideas are unusual and unique. This could lead somewhat to opposition from others, especially those in charge. They don’t understand your choices. Each day you seek more independence. You are not afraid anymore. The new era is here.

Your daily work environment, routines, schedules and also your health may become unpredictable, moving toward irregular. Some Librans love this for it allows for more freedom. Others need the structure, with reliable and regular agendas in place. You might become somewhat impatient, anxious and nervous.

You sometimes learn the hard way, through sorrow and loss. Gather loved one around you. Be forgiving.

CANCER

You’re inventive and creative. At times you sense the need for a bit more self-control. You’ll learn this eventually. We all do. Selfknowledge sometimes comes through being reckless and foolhardy. Are you this way with relationships, perhaps? You want most of all at this time, freedom and independence and a retreat where you can work in solitude. Perhaps fish a bit. Visualize what and where that would be. Write it down, draw and color it. It will all appear, all that you need, in time.

•••

Amidst the sudden decision to travel or have an adventure, you realize you’re seeking a utopia to live in. Not for you the conventional path. So customs and traditions are set aside so new independent ideas can flow, exotic places can appear that reflect the new era advanced ways of living and thinking. It’s an experiment. Caution is advised. Not too much though.

CAPRICORN

PISCES

Risa D’Angeles • www.nightlightnews.org • risagoodwill@gmail.com 26 / March 2021 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“Fitness Centers” from page 24 While this is good advice, public health policy cannot ignore that many Californians simply cannot effectively exercise in their homes or outdoors due to poor air quality, lack of recreational spaces, or an inability to purchase and maintain at-home fitness equipment and subscriptions.

Additionally, many people have already tailored their own exercise regimen to get the best results working out at a well-equipped fitness facility.

To find a solution, large fitness facilities have come together to devise a reopening plan that follows CDC and other public health recommendations.

The California Safe Fitness Plan, if implemented, would represent the most stringent requirements in the country, while still providing critical access for fitness. The plan calls for limited capacity, increased physical distancing of 12 feet — double the national 6-foot standard — mandated face coverings and a record of every person who enters a fitness facility for contact tracing.

In addition, the plan would require sanitization of equipment every 20 minutes during operating hours, overnight closure from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. to sanitize all surfaces and equipment, and closing all communal locker rooms and showers while a region is in the “Purple Tier.”

Perhaps most importantly, large fitness facilities allow for greater airflow and robust air circulation systems, and under the California Plan, fitness centers would be required to use a minimum MERV-13 air filtration standard.

The closure of indoor fitness centers has caused California’s vulnerable populations — already disproportionately impacted by the pandemic — to struggle even more with their physical and mental health.

I have experienced homelessness, hunger and health disparities during my youth, helping me to understand the importance of ensuring that all populations have access to interventions that help improve overall health outcomes.

COVID-19 has presented serious health care challenges and difficult decisions for policymakers. However, large fitness facilities want to be part of the solution by offering to implement stringent safety protocols that will allow individuals the opportunity to improve their overall physical and mental health while minimizing the risk of COVID transmission.

To read the California Safe Fitness Plan, go to: https://exerciseisessential4all. com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/ CA_SafeFitnessPlan_2.pdf n ••• Richard Carmona served as the 17th U.S. Surgeon General and currently sits on the Chancellor’s Board of Advisors at UC Davis. He advises fitness centers on ways to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission in their facilities.

Email him at rcarmona@email.arizona.edu.

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Environmentally Speaking

Contact Lens Recycling & Free Mattress Disposal

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e are fortunate to live in one of the most beautiful and biodiverse environments in the world.

The local environment plays an essential role in our economy and quality of life.

Our County is often at the forefront of environmental programs and innovation. Here is a small set of some new (and ongoing) programs that might be of interest to you.

Contact Lens Recycling id you know that every year approximately 3 billion contact lenses end up in our local wastewater treatment plant? About 1 in 5 people flush used contact lenses down the sink or toilet, which contribute to harmful micro plastic pollution in the Monterey Bay. The Board of Supervisors approved an ordinance that requires all eye care practitioners and supply providers in the unincorporated area (such as Aptos) to offer a free contact lens recycling program. The purpose of this program is to provide an easy (and free) alternative to flushing contact lenses and packaging materials.

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“Water Sustainability” from page 24 • An interactive planter box using wooden fruits and vegetables where children will learn the benefits of using compost and recycled water in agriculture — something particularly relevant in Santa Cruz County.

In addition to those water and conservation education components, the Eco Home includes interactive elements illustrating solar energy, composting,

By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District

You can contact your provider for more information but all brands are recyclable as are the top foil and the opened plastic blister packs.

Reducing Single-Use Plastics and Disposable Cups eginning in January, a 25-cent surcharge was enacted for each disposable cup sold by coffee shops, restaurants and other food vendors in the unincorporated area (some local cities have also enacted similar surcharges).

There are ongoing discussions about allocating some or all of the surcharge to local environmental programs and cleanup efforts. While enacting the surcharge took an action of the Board of Supervisors, dedicating it for a specific purpose would require a Santa Cruz County vote.

It’s estimated this surcharge could provide up to $2 million a year for local environmental programs and coastal cleanups such as those occurring along Aptos Creek, Seacliff and Rio Del Mar. Similar to the single-use bag fee at grocery stores, the fee is currently collected and retained at the point-of-sale location.

In addition, to reduce plastic waste in our landfills and beaches, the Board of Supervisors enacted a ban on small, singleuse plastic bottles of personal care products in hotels, vacation rentals and other visitor accommodations in the unincorporated county.

This was a multi-year phase-in process that has officially taken effect.

While many hotels were already phasing them out, this now creates a standard that prevents single-use small plastic

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recycling, and other sustainability concepts. Through these and other interactive exhibits and activities, the Eco Home helps empower children to be part of the solution to the problems of water management, climate change, and degradation of the environment.

The environmental education/water conservation Eco Home interactive exhibit was created through a partnership led by the Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery, and including Soquel Creek Water

bottles from being used in these types of accommodations.

Millions of these bottles were being thrown away every year and the state ended up modeling a statewide law after our local ordinance to phase them out statewide.

Free Mattress and Motor Oil Disposal ocal residents can bring used motor oil and filters to the Buena Vista Landfill for free to the Household Hazardous Waste facility (limit of 15 gallons per visit). You can visit www.santacruzcountyrecylces. org for more information.

Additionally, in partnership with the Mattress Recycling Council, local residents can bring mattresses to the Buena Vista Landfill for free. Offering these services, for motor oil and mattresses, reduces illegal dumping and protects the environment.

Learning About Composting nterested in learning more about composting? Composting enriches soil and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. County Public Works sponsors free (virtual) classes for basic composting.

Reservations are required. The

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next class will be held Saturday, March 13, from 10 a.m. to noon, and you can call (831) 824-6484 or online at goo.gl/Fw6BaK to make a reservation. n ••• As always, I appreciate any feedback you may have on this (or any other County issue).

I’m maintaining regular updates on social media at www.facebook.com/supervisorfriend and during the shelter-in-place order I’m hosting a tele-townhall on Tuesday, March 2, with Mimi Hall, director of the County’s Health Services Agency, from 6-7 p.m.

The call-in information is 454-2222 with the Meeting ID: 145384# - you are welcome to speak about any issue during the town halls or you can always call me at 454-2200.

I

District, Loves Gardens, the City of Santa Cruz, Knox Roofing, Green Space, San Lorenzo Lumber, Allterra Solar, Big Creek Lumber, Mission Tile, Habitat Resource, and all the wonderful community volunteers who helped make it happen. 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 us at outreach@soquelcreekwater. org or 831-475-8501 x118 and visit www. soquelcreekwater.org.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / March 2021 / 27

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SENIOR CENTER WITHOUT LIMITS This new program from Community Bridges brings enrichment activities like yoga, art, music, tai chi, cooking, tech and support groups to seniors age 60 and up in their homes at no cost.

To participate, you need an internet connection and a computer, tablet or smartphone.

To participate, view the calendar at https://communitybridges.org/SCWOL/ and find a class. That day and time, click on the link in the calendar to be connected.

If you have a problem connecting, call Clara Munoz at (831) 458-3481.

SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK DRIVE-IN MOVIES SCHEDULE Saturdays in March Croods: A New Age — Mar. 6, 6:30 p.m.

Wreck-It Ralph — Mar. 13, 6:30 p.m.

X-Men (2000) — Mar. 20, 8 p.m.

Austin Powers: Int’l Man of Mystery — Mar. 27, 8 p.m.

Cost $35 per vehicle.

Visit https://beachboardwalk.com/Drive-In-Movies for details and restrictions

SECOND HARVEST FOOD DISTRIBUTION Fridays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Second Harvest Food Bank drive-through food distribution schedule into March:

Have a virtual or live event you want to promote?

Send your information to info@cyber-times.com by March 8 Watsonville: Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds March 5 • March 19 ••• Food hotline: 831-662-0991.

For more information: call (831) 423-7601, visit survivors healingcenter.org or email shc.program@fsa-cc.org.

CAREER MONTH AT CABRILLO Four free job fairs are available for current students at Cabrillo College in the month YOUNGER LAGOON RESERVE VIRTUAL TOURS Younger Lagoon Reserve, which is part of UC in Santa Cruz, of April. The fairs take place from 3-5 p.m. four Thursdays is now offering a virtual starting April 8. Advanced tour in both English and registration is required.

Spanish. This virtual April 8 — global & human tour follows the same stops as our behind-the-scenes hiking studies tour, and is led by a UC Santa Cruz student.

April 15 — entrepreneur, Visit https://ucanr.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapTour/ business & creative index.html?appid=7bf4b74490c444068a326c4c April 22 — health & public safety 89a9a560 or https://ucanr.maps.arcgis.com/apps/ April 29 — science tech engineering math MapTour/index.html?appid=9e4aa7556bc24951a855cc3 There are also four resume workshops on April 6, bd4f6c473 (https://tinyurl.com/lagoon-reserve-virtual-tours) 12, 19 and 27 and four career coaching classes on https://youngerlagoonreserve.ucsc.edu April 7, 16, 20 and 26.

Students can register and employers can post jobs at https:// NEW GROUPS STARTING FOR SURVIVORS www.cabrillo.edu/career-services/ OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE Survivors Healing Center, a welcoming place for survivors of child sexual abuse and their supporters, is forming new eight- ONGOING EVENTS week support groups for survivors of childhood sexual abuse.

Every Third Thursday of the Month There will be online groups in English and Spanish PET LOSS AND GRIEF SUPPORT VIA ZOOM for men, women, mothers of survivors, partners of survivors, young adults and teens.

6 to 7:30 p.m., virtual meeting You are not alone. You are not to blame. Services are BirchBark Foundation’s Pet Loss and Grief Support offered on a sliding fee scale.

Zoom group offers a free support group, moderated

28 / March 2021 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

by a licensed grief counseling therapist, on the third Thursday of each month.

Register at https://www.birchbarkfoundation.org/griefsupport or call 831-471-7255.

First and Third Sunday MAKERS’ MARKET First Sunday: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., 2801 Mission St., Santa Cruz Third Sunday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz (Between Cathcart & Lincoln) Santa Cruz Mountains Makers Market is returning! The market is held every first Sunday outside the Wrigley Building and every third Sunday on Pacific Avenue (Downtown Santa Cruz). The Wrigley market features vintage and handmade art, food and drink. The Downtown market features over 30 local artists and makers.

There is no charge to attend the market. The Wrigley Market will open the following week if delayed for rain, weather permitting.

Visit http://scmmakersmarket.com for more information.

Available thru Sunday March 28 450 PIECES TRI-GALLERY ART SHOW Online Gallery R. Blitzer Gallery, Curated by the Sea, and the Radius Gallery, all in Santa Cruz, are hosting the work of 300+ artists in Arts Council Santa Cruz County’s Visual Arts Network.

Capitola artist Wendy Ballen is one of the participating artists at R Blitzer Gallery.

Info: infor@curatedbythesea.com or “Which Came First?” vase by Daniel Osorio call1 (408) 250-2224

COMMUNITY CALENDAR DATED EVENTS Wednesday March 3 CAREERS FOR TEENS EXPO 4 p.m., Santa Cruz Public Libraries Zoom Expo “Teen Expo II: Homegrown Careers” is a show and tell event showcasing successful Santa Cruz County creators, makers, entrepreneurs and civic leaders to empower teens to consider turning their interests and talents into careers.

Register through the Santa Cruz Public Libraries website: https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/7353633.

For questions, email messagemalina@gmail.com.

Vitalant tests every donation for COVID-19 antibodies and informs donors of their results. If positive, Vitalant produces COVID plasma, known as convalescent plasma, from the donation. These donors can then give a convalescent plasma donation in the future to help give COVID-19 patients a boost of antibodies to fight their illness.

Friday March 5 thru Saturday March 13

NINTH ANNUAL WATSONVILLE FILM FESTIVAL Co-founded by Consuelo Alba, this year’s festival features: Fandango at the Wall, Our Quinceanera, El Guardian de la Memoria, El Sembrador, La Felicidad, Juan de los Brujas, Jamaica & Thursday March 4 Tamarindo, El Centro, Corazon de Mezquite, El HOUSING MATTERS CASE MANAGERS JOB FAIR Ultimo Balsero, La Bruja de Texcoco, Pasajuego, Noon-4 p.m., Invitation Only Nahjum, Cholitas, plus student films co-presented Nonprofit Housing Matters is looking to hire a team of case with Digital Nest. managers to house 90 people currently in shelters and All films are free online at https://watsonvillefilmfest.org/ hotels over the next 15 months through the new Housing Now program. Pay will be $31+ per hour with benefits.

Sunday March 7 Interviews are by invitation. Email resume to MONTHLY OUTDOOR MARKETPLACE BEGINS recruiter@housingmatterssc.org. Housing Matters seeks 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Wrigley Building Parking Lot, 2801 Mission people with experience in housing navigation and in St., Santa Cruz Santa Cruz County, who like working as part of a team, The Westside Marketplace, presented by Food Trucks and who are efficient problem solvers.

A Go Go and the Santa Cruz For details, see https://housingmatterssc.org/about/careers/ Mountains Makers Market, is a new monthly outdoor market ANNUAL HUNGER FIGHTER AWARDS CELEBRATION with local food, art, handmade 4:30 p.m., Second Harvest Food Bank Virtual Event goods and vintage shopping.

Holiday Food & Fund Drive Co-Chairs Megan Martinelli This new market will be open and Carlos Palacios along with Second Harvest Food every first Sunday of every month at the old Wrigley building Bank staff will announce their Hunger Fighters of the Year. parking lot. Rain dates are for the following Sundays.

The event can be viewed by giving an RSVP at https:// All 40 artists, makers and vintage sellers are local. All give.thefoodbank.org/campaigns/17468-annual-awardslocal and state health guidelines will be followed. Wear celebration-celebrating-you your mask, distance while you shop and stay home if you don’t feel well. Hand sanitizing stations will be available.

Thursday March 4 For information, go to the event page on Facebook, foodtrucks and Saturday March 6 agogo.com or scmmakersmarket.com for a list of vendors.

RED CROSS ASKING FOR BLOOD Thurs: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Hotel Paradox, 611 Ocean St., SC Monday March 8 Sat: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Highlands Park Senior Center, 8500 DEADLINE TO ENTER STARTUP CHALLENGE Highway 9, Ben Lomond MONTEREY BAY Record-breaking cold and winter storms across much Got a great startup idea? Ready to pitch your plan? Enter of the U.S. cancelled hundreds of American Red Cross the Startup Challenge Monterey Bay. In its 12th year, the blood drives in about 30 states and caused more than Startup Challenge has had more than 840 entrants who 15,000 blood and platelet donations to go uncollected. have won $400,000 in prizes. Startup Challenge comThe Red Cross is urging healthy individuals, especially panies have raised more than $35 million in funding. those with type O blood, to give now.

New businesses (less than two years old) based in To make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Monterey, San Benito, or Santa Cruz counties can enter.

Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED There are four categories: CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill • Venture (businesses intended to scale and provide on any Alexa Echo device. venture-investor level returns) • Social Venture (businesses with a significant social Friday March 5 mission) • Main Street (small businesses and sole proprietorships) BOARDWALK BLOOD DRIVE • Student (students in middle school through 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Cocoanut Grove, 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz graduate schools) Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Vitalant are urging This year, you’ll compete on a new online event eligible individuals to donate blood to help prevent platform, startupchallengemb.com. The platform will delays in lifesaving medical care for patients. feature the finalist companies and will broadcast the Vitalant blood drives follow strict final pitches (aka the Otter Tank) and announcement of COVID protocols including checking winners May 7. temperatures, social distancing and To enter see https://startupchallengemb.com/ requiring face masks.

Type O blood is the most widely used Tuesday March 9 by patients because 39% of the popuWALLACE STEGNER LECTURES*: lation has O-positive blood—the most prevalent DR. MICHAEL E. MANN type. Type O-negative is called the ‘universal type’ because it is used to save the lives of all other blood 7 p.m., Online Lecture Climate scientist and author Dr. Michael E. Mann will types, especially in an emergency when there isn’t time to type and cross-match the patient. Donors will address how we move forward together on climate change.

Dr. Mann is Distinguished Professor of Atmospheric find out their blood type if it is unknown.

Science at Penn State University.

Dr. Mann is author of more than 200 peer-reviewed and edited publications, numerous op-eds and commentaries, and six books. https://openspacetrust.org/wsl2021/ *Cost for the Wallace Stegner Lecture Series is $30. The price gives you access to four lectures, plus the ability Michael E. Mann to watch recordings until April 30. This includes January’s Dolores Huerta & Luis Valdez, February’s Erin Brockovich and April’s José Andrés lectures.

Thursday March 11 STORYTELLING SEMINAR 6:30-8 p.m., Zoom session.

Professional storyteller and librarian Barbara Chamberlain will led a Zoom seminar on storytelling 6:30-8 p.m.

Thursday, March 11, for teachers, parents, and children of all ages who enjoy a good story.

This event supports the Cabrillo Lions Club. Cost is $12 for the seminar, a synopsis of the class, and a copy of Barbara’s CD, Rockin’ Folktales.

Send your check to 123 Merideth Court Aptos 95003 and you will be sent the link to the seminar.

Thursday March 18 APTOS CHAMBER VIRTUAL LUNCH MEETING Noon-1 p.m., Zoom Casa de Fruta partner Gene Zanger will speak at the Aptos Chamber of Commerce virtual lunch meeting on Zoom. For link, RSVP at: https://docs.google.com/form s/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6x9UOIM9SsOeJUbRPSz6729L2oXFABkNakziz3LhAGBcFA/viewform Cost: $15 general/ $10 members/free for Premier and Grand Champion members.

The goal is increase the turnover of high-polluting equipment to reduce harmful diesel exhaust emissions, Funds come from the cap-and-trade climate initiative.

Grant applications are at https://www.mbard.org/diesel-engineequipment-replacement-program.

Wednesday March 24 BRANDENBURG CONCERTO 300TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Monterey will host a worldwide celebration of the 300th anniversary of the Brandenburg Concerto, a JS Bach masterpiece, with two Livestreams – one at 2 to 3:30 p.m., and the second at 7 to 8:30 p.m. on March 24 via Zoom.

This celebration is sponsored by the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and the Music and Performing Arts Department at CSU Monterey Bay. It’s all completely free – a gift to the world from Monterey, California, to honor one of the most significant pieces of music ever written.

The Brandenburg is a significant part of Monterey County’s cultural history – the Carmel Bach Festival, starting in its second year (1936), played all or part of it every year for 21 years, and dozens of times since.

Zoom Links March 24, 2 p.m. Showing: https://csumb.zoom. us/j/85276768706 March 24, 7 p.m. Showing: https://csumb.zoom. us/j/88080717562 For information, or to register (optional) go to https://brandenburgconcerto300thanniversary.com

Saturday March 27

BOARDWALK OPEN AIR MARKET 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk plans an Open Air Market 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdarday, March 27, with ocean views and shopping at up to 30 local Saturday March 20 artisan and direct sales booths. Face masks will be required.

11TH ANNUAL SHE.IS.BEAUTIFUL SANTA CRUZ If you are a local artist, maker or business, apply 5K, 10K & HALF MARATHON Virtual or Touchless Race information available via registration for a booth at https://beachboardwalk.com/ Founded by Melissa McConville, the She.is.beautiful race Open-Air-Market?utm_source=Email&utm_ medium=Email&utm_campaign=Open%20Air%20Market started with 500 women in Santa Cruz and has grown to 6,000. This year’s events offer options for COVID safety.

Sunday April 11 She.is.beautiful’s local charity partner is Walnut Avenue PRESCRIBED BURN WORKSHOPS Family & Women’s Center.

9 a.m.-5 p.m., Davenport • Registration due by April 4.

The Santa Cruz Half Marathon and SIB Challenge Learn the fundamentals of prescribed firelighting and events are sold out. Registration is still wildland firefighting during this hands-on field training open for the 5k and 10k races. in Davenport.

Virtual Race Week is Monday, Training will cover fireline construction, commuMarch 15-Sunday, March 21, nications, with the Touchless Santa Cruz prescribed Experience March 18-21. fire ignitions, The difference between the Virtual and the Touchless race options is that for the Virtual you operation of a firefighting pump, installation of a hoselay and more. can participate anywhere in the world and your swag You will be prepared to participate in local pack is sent to you, and the Touchless option means you will come to Santa Cruz, pick up your swag bag and cooperative burns hosted by the new Central Coast participate on the actual race course during race week.

Prescribed Burn Association (calpba.org). If you do The Touchless option includes a Passport to Santa Cruz not have wildfire or prescribed fire experience, the where you can redeem free items at businesses all over one-day workshop will be a prerequisite for particitown (coffee, pedicures, cookies, beer and wine, and pation in future CCPBA burns so don’t miss out. plants).

The training can certify you as a Basic Wildland Virtual Live Race will take place Saturday, March 20, with all Firefighter 2, with pre-completion of online coursework levels welcome. Register at https://runsheisbeautiful.com/ plus an “arduous pack-test” prior to attending the in-person field day if you are interested.

Friday March 19 Cost: $20 with scholarships available upon request. Space is limited.

Full Details and Registration at: https://ucanr.edu/survey/ DIESEL ENGINE GRANT DEADLINE The Monterey Bay Air Resources District is accepting survey.cfm?surveynumber=33128. applications for grants through the Diesel Engine and For questions email Jared Childress (childress.ember@gmail.

Equipment Replacement Program through March 19. com) or Devii Rao (drorao@ucanr.edu). n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / March 2021 / 29

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Live Oak Parking, Tiny Homes, ADUs on Horizon

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ooking back at the last month, we’ve made enormous strides in COVID vaccinations, responded to lots of questions and suggestions about Live Oak Parking Program changes, and welcomed the opening of the Heart of Soquel Parkway.

In the next month, we are looking forward to making progress on initiatives for pre-approved ADU plans and managed community villages to end homelessness.

As always, I welcome your feedback on these and other issues. Here are a few highlights from the last month in the First District office: COVID-19 Updates anta Cruz County has made great progress in vaccinating our community, and now ranks 2nd for California counties with populations of 250,000 or above. According to data compiled by the state, Santa Cruz County has given more than 71,000 doses of the vaccine, and has vaccinated over half of residents ages 65 and older.

Eligibility for vaccinations has been extended to certain occupational groups, and the majority of teachers, and all law enforcement officers, fire, and first responders have been given access to the vaccine. The County is expecting more vaccines coming soon from Johnson & Johnson, and on March 15, vaccines are expected to be available to persons aged 16-64 with certain medical conditions.

Santa Cruz County is still currently in the Purple “widespread” tier, but we expect to go to the Red tier in 2-3 weeks, at which point gyms and indoor dining can reopen.

For more information, including a description of the tiers, visit the County’s Vaccine Page.

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By Manu Koenig, First District Supervisor

Live Oak Parking he current Live Oak Parking Program faces problems. It is underserving residents in impacted neighborhoods, running in the red, and potentially in violation of the California Coastal Act. Over the last month I hosted two public meetings with Public Works Director Matt Machado and his team to answer community questions and take suggestions on potential changes.

The 2021 LOPP program will be voted on by the Board of Supervisors at our April 7 meeting. If you have feedback on the program please email my office at First.

District@SantaCruzCounty.US Heart of Soquel Parkway his month we were excited to open the new Heart of Soquel Parkway. I welcome you to enjoy it! We extend a huge thank you to everyone who made the new Soquel Parkway a reality.

This is just the beginning of many more improvements for biking and walking in our community. At the last RTC meeting, I requested that staff study a trailonly solution that’s not impeded by the rail. My office is also working on pop-up bike lane projects throughout the First District.

Housing Initiatives hroughout the campaign, I heard from voters that creating more affordable housing options is a high priority. At the Board of Supervisors meeting on Jan. 26, I introduced an item I authored to legalize moveable tiny homes as housing.

We expect to hear from the Planning Department on next steps for a process and timeline for creating such an ordinance and conducting public outreach on the topic at our next Board meeting on March 9.

•••

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O

ur next focus will be an initiative to bring pre-approved ADU plans to the County website. Other jurisdictions, including the City of Capitola, are considering similar proposals. Pre-approved plans would make building and permitting an ADU quicker, easier, and more affordable.

Our office welcomes your feedback on these and other important issues. I will host constituent meetings from 6 – 7 p.m. on Monday evenings prior to Tuesday Board meetings as an opportunity to provide feedback on any and all agenda items; links are available on my Board of

Supervisors page on the County website.

Other upcoming meetings include: • Constituent Meeting, Monday, March 8, 6-7pm • Board Meeting, Tuesday, March 9, 9am • Summit Meeting, Wednesday, March 17, 5-6pm • Constituent Meeting, Monday March 22, 6-7pm • Board Meeting, Tuesday, March 23, 9 am n ••• Manu Koenig is county supervisor representing the First District, Live Oak, Soquel and the Summit.

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30 / March 2021 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

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SCCAS Featured Pet

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Don’t Prune Flowering Trees Until Spring

By Tony Tomeo

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I

Del Sol Is Ready to Wake You Up!

crossword on 25 »

t’s chicken week again, and Del Sol is ready to find a good home! This fancy dude has been pecking around our barn yard for a month, and has so much personality!

He is very interested when people come around, and, as you can see, is quite comfortable in front of the camera. Otherwise, he is independent, curious, and usually doing his own thing!

Del Sol would make a perfect companion for our chicken lovers out there, and we would love for you to come meet him!

Email Jill at jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us to set up an appointment.

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

ost major pruning happens while the plants that need it are dormant through winter. That is why it is known as ‘dormant pruning.’

Such pruning would be so much more disruptive while plants are blooming, fruiting, foliating or growing. Pruning that happens during other seasons is not as aggressive as dormant pruning. Spring pruning, although practical for some plants, is relatively docile.

For deciduous fruit trees, dormant pruning is very important. It concentrates resources into fruit production, but also limits production to sustainable quantities. Otherwise, such fruit trees would be unable to support the weight of their own copious fruit. Spring pruning of such trees is simply too late. By that time, superfluous fruit has already consumed significant resources, only to be wasted.

Stone fruit trees and pome fruit trees are familiar examples of deciduous fruit trees that rely on dormant pruning. Stone fruits include peach, nectarine, apricot, plum and their relatives. Pome fruits are primarily apple and pear. Ironically though, their fruitless but flowering counterparts perform best with spring pruning instead. As similar as they all are, they have completely different priorities.

Flowering cherry trees bloom more spectacularly than fruiting cherry trees, but produce no fruit. Similarly, flowering crabapple trees bloom more colorfully than fruiting apple trees, but produce only tiny fruit. Neither must sustain production of significant fruit. Nor must they support the increasing weight of developing fruit.

Prolific bloom is their primary function.

Spring pruning accommodates.

March Madness © Statepoint Media

Some plants prefer pruning after bloom.

Spring pruning allows flowering trees to first bloom as profusely as possible.

Pruned out stems have already served their purpose. Because fruit production is not a concern, spring pruning is less severe than dormant pruning. Nonetheless, because dormant pruning is so practical for so many plants, spring pruning may seem impractical. It is tempting to prune dormant flowering trees now. Doing so harmlessly compromises bloom.

••• Flowering Crabapple ll crabapple trees flower. Almost all subsequently produce fruit. Those designated as ‘flowering’ crabapples exhibit the most spectacular bloom, but generally produce inferior fruit. A few cultivars are nearly fruitless. Crabapples not designated as ‘flowering’ are not as bold in bloom, but generally produce larger fruit of better quality. Their fruit is useful for jelly and other culinary applications.

Almost all crabapple trees here are flowering crabapples. Fruiting crabapples are rare locally. Their fruit is not as popular as it is in other regions.

Flowering crabapple blooms However, flowlike flowering cherry. ering crabapples that produce big fruit are increasingly trendy. Their fruits can get as wide as an inch and a half, almost as big as fruits of fruiting crabapples. If not picked or eaten by birds, even typical berry sized fruits are messy.

White, pink or reddish pink bloom is impressively profuse, just prior to spring foliation. In fact, bloom is comparable to that of flowering cherries, and only a bit later. Most flowering crabapples get no taller than 15 feet.

Aggressive annual dormant pruning is not necessary as it is for trees that produce heavy apples. Instead, mature trees appreciate summer structure pruning and thinning. n ••• Horticulturist Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo.com.

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / March 2021 / 31

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