Capitola Soquel Times: April 2022 by Times Publishing Group, Inc.

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

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April 2022 • Vol 27 No. 4

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The First People of Capitola

The new Capitola Historical Museum exhibition, “Perspectives – Capitola in the Eye of the Beholder” explores an array of perspectives of Capitola through both the art and words of its beholders, past and present. In addition to artwork drawn from the museum’s permanent collection, the exhibition will include a new painting. Full Story page 11

City-Wide Garage Sale

We All Need A Hero

Full Story page 4

Sliced Bread

Story and Photos By Jondi Gumz

As Ray Apolskis sat on a bench at Capitola Beach with his faithful canine companion, a woman was about to walk by when she paused. “I remember you,” she said, noticing Ray’s dog, Benny, who used to greet visitors at Surf N Shack, Ray’s T-shirt and sweatshirt shop in Capitola Village.

I remember Ray, too. In March 2009, when someone stole the tiki out of Capitola’s Esplanade Park, Ray offered to donate the $500 tiki carved by Wilhelm Zilliacus that gave his shop a surf vibe. ... continues on page 4

Exccdingectatiis! Exp

Arguably, our obsession with convenience, our loss of primitive values, the breakdown of the family, and our disrespect for the earth are all somehow influenced by our need to quickly throw together a sandwich or fire up an aromatic piece of toast. Full Story page 6

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No. 4

Volume 27

Table of Contents

Cover We All Need A Hero, Story and Photos By Jondi Gumz Community News City-Wide Garage Sale More Signs of Normalcy As Omicron Cases Fade, By Jondi Gumz Second Harvest Holiday Drive: More than 5 Million Meals! Russia Invades Ukraine; Record Gas Prices, $400 Rebate?, By Jondi Gumz Mayor Proclaims March 15 Equal Pay Day Cal Fire CZU Chief Welcomes Volunteers, By Jondi Gumz Boys & Girls Club Chief Bob Langseth to Retire Fundraising Goal Met for New Clinics at 1500 Capitola Road: Fed. Government to Fund $1M for Dental Equipment 22 Cabrillo President Responds to Pride Flag Burning: Letter to the Community from Matt Wetstein 27 Grand Jury Seeks Volunteers: Deadline To Apply: 3 p.m. April 29 31 March 31 Deadline to Apply for Pandemic Rent Relief

4 7 8 9 10 13 15 21

Business Profile 18 The Skylight Place: Getting the Job Done Right, By June Smith National News 23 EarthDay.Org Calls for a Global Plastics Treaty Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – Star Gates of Spring Have Opened, By Risa D’Angeles Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29 Featured Columnists Sliced Bread, By Joe Ortiz The First People of Capitola, By Deborah Osterberg Cashew Cream Cake, By Wendy Ballen Report Card Notes: Roy Segura Retiring, By Scott J. Turnbull, Superintendent, Soquel Union Elementary School District 25 Strategically Thinking: Climate Change and the Future of Water, By Rebecca Gold Rubin 30 Rezoning Proposed to Meet Housing Goals: Biggest Change in County General Plan in 25 Years, By Manu Koenig, Supervisor, First District

6 11 20 24

SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 31 – Girls Trip!

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COVER STORY Patrice Edwards Jondi Gumz

publisher editor

contributing writers Jondi Gumz, June Smith, Risa D’Angeles, Joe Ortiz, Deborah, Wendy Ballen, Scott J. Turnbull, Rebecca Gold Rubin, Manu Koenig layout Michael Oppenheimer, Ward J. Austin graphic artists Michael Oppenheimer, Ward J. Austin photography Michael Oppenheimer, Ward J. Austin, Brad King website Michael Oppenheimer, Camisa Composti production coordinator Camisa Composti media consultants Teri Huckobey, Brooke Valentine Cathe Race

office coordinator

distribution Bill Pooley, Taylor Brougham

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 Soquel 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 Summer Festivals Official Program Guide, is owned by Patrice Edwards. Entire contents ©2022. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission PHONE: (831) 688-7549 FAX: (831) 688-7551 GENERAL E-MAIL: info@cyber-times.com Patrice Edwards: patrice@cyber-times.com Publisher’s Assistant: assistant@cyber-times.com Editor: info@cyber-times.com Calendar Listings: www.tpgonlinedaily.com Graphics Department: graphics@cyber-times.com Billing Inquiries: cathe@cyber-times.com Classified Sales: sales@cyber-times.com Production: production@cyber-times.com CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE AT: www.tpgonlinedaily.com mission statement We at the Times Publishing Group, Inc. are dedicated to providing a voice for the individuals and organizations in our community while highlighting the outstanding accomplishments of our local businesses. We seek to promote healthy family values through our coverage of youth activities, school news, senior events, community groups and entertainment 4 / April 2022 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“Remembering Ray” from page 1 Sadly, the Surf N Shack is no more. Now it’s painted pink, home to Xandra Swimwear. Ray lost his shop, his source of income, and his home in the Covid-19 pandemic. He’s been wrapping himself in Indian blankets — the kind he used to sell — sleeping on the bench, or in the yard of an accommodating property owner in the village, getting up at 5 a.m. so as not to be a bother. He’s not old enough to cash in his 401-k retirement account — built up from working 14 years at Pasatiempo Golf Course, where he was director of sales — without a penalty. Before the golf job, he owned a deejay business, Cut A Rug, and played music at the Edgewater bar on the Esplanade. Now, thanks to Aptos resident Joseph Jacques, Ray has a new gig that may turn his life around.

Jacques and his pal, AJ Lovewins (a name he adopted) of Los Angeles, are co-founders of Harmonic Humanity, a 10-year-old organization dedicated to helping people get off the streets and into a place to live via music. Sounds crazy, right? Listen and learn: Music is healing. Jacques said AJ successfully battled addiction and began working at a soup kitchen in Los Angeles where people ate meals and got a good dose of uplifting music. Jacques calls it “conscious music,” music of various styles aligned with social healing and love. I call it uplifting. That gave them the idea: What if they could create a CD of uplifting music and give copies to people who are homeless to sell and earn a living. What if well-known musicians — like Jason Mraz, Michael Franti and Maroon 5 — were willing to provide music tracks? The first ask was at a party at Café Gratitude, and they got 15 tracks in all.

City-Wide Garage Sale

ark your calendars for the return of the annual city-wide garage sale on Saturday, April 23, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The City of Capitola will sponsor its annual garage sale to give residents the chance to support reusing and recycling items they no longer need. A map of participating locations and a description of available items will be available to download before the event. n •••

To sign up, see: https://www. cityofcapitola.org/cityadministration/ webform/2022-capitola-city-wide-garagesale-signup

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COVER STORY What if the CD could be sold for a $20 donation? One hundred CD sales would equal $2,000, a big step toward a month’s rent and security. This is the third album, titled HERO. The CD jacket features a takeoff on Leonardo da Vinci’s “Finger of God” painting of creation, with a silhouetted figure making a leap of faith. The Santa Cruz Veterans Hall is a backer, having bought 1,000 CDs. A photo of the Vets Hall appears on the back cover. Jacques said the name is based on the work of writer Joseph Campbell, who described the hero’s journey, entering the unknown, meeting a mentor, facing trials and failure, gaining new skills, entering the abyss, surviving the ordeal, then returning transformed to the known world. Ray Apolskis’ first reaction was: “It’s exciting — also a little daunting to take this on.”

He mulled it over: “I’m used to being self-employed … it’s like being self-employed.” He added, “I’m tired of sneaking around … I want to get off the streets.” To get a roof over his head, his game plan is to tap into his 401 (k), once the penalty period is past, and to sell the HERO CDs three days a week, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., while enjoying the beautiful views on Capitola Beach. Why not be a hero and buy a CD yourself? The music is good, and you’ll be doing good at the same time. To learn more about the Love Tour 2022 and watch a video of Jason Mraz and Ace of Cups explain why they support this economic opportunity initiative, visit HarmonicHumanity.org. n ••• Cover Photo: Ray Apolskis and Benny, a small Pomeranian who is 6 years old.

Joseph Jacques, co-founder of HarmonicHumanity.org, with the HERO CD.

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s it possible that sliced bread could lead to the downfall of civilization? Arguably, our obsession with convenience, our loss of primitive values, the breakdown of the family, and our disrespect for the earth are all somehow influenced by our need to quickly throw together a sandwich or fire up an aromatic piece of toast. I understand not having the time to cook, garden, make bread at home, or wash one’s own car — but not having the time to slice bread? The iron age changed our concept of tools. From bread’s earliest appearance as unleavened galettes or cakes, it has served as a functional vehicle. We’re told that in medieval times the privileged who lived in walled cities would use a “plate” of bread on which to serve their meals. Then, when they were done eating the toppings, they would throw the sauce-soaked bread slabs over the wall to feed the poor. Of course, we’ve evolved since then. Yet, the age of supermarket bread has made us forsake crust and crumb as one of the most important tools of conveyance. Still in France, bread is used for transporting food from plate to mouth. Sliced bread has replaced our need to “break bread,” which acts as the social glue that fuses us together into families and tribes. To tear is primal, ritualistic and it helps satisfy our primitive instincts.

Many of us remember using a slice of wadded up Wonder Bread as a missile to be flung in sibling warfare. Mass production necessitated the use of conditioners to help make bread more consistent and homogenous. But it also helped it hold together in face of attack. (Obviously not the “social glue” I was talking about.) The factory-made breads of today are said to have “shelf life,” an attribute that makes food sound more like nuclear waste than nourishment. “It stays fresh for weeks,” is the unwritten slogan. But how long will it remain in the stomach? And should we be asking, “What is the half-life?” A Russian cab driver once told me he loved Wonder Bread because, “You don’t even have to chew it.” How much nutrition can it possibly deliver? Maybe they call it Wonder bread because it makes you wonder. “Sliced Bread” page 8

MMAARRKK YYOOUURR CCAALLEENNDDAARRSS FFOORR TTHHEE http://www.cityofcapitola.org http://www.cityofcapitola.org r d r d C I T Y W I D E G A R A G E S A L E O N A P R I L 2 3 ! CITYWIDE GARAGE SALE ON APRIL 23 M !ARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THE MARK YOUR C A L E N D A R S F O R T H E

The Return of the

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City of Capitola • 831.475.7300 • 420 Capitola Ave. • Capitola, CA 95010

The City of Capitola will be

The Friday before the Garage Sale, a map will be available at City Hall and at

COMMUNITY NEWS

More Signs of Normalcy As Omicron Cases Fade By Jondi Gumz

ant to travel again? Kayak.com reports the United Kingdom, Slovenia and Denmark are open to visitors — with no Covid-19 restrictions. New York City Mayor Eric Adams lifted the vaccine mandate for performers and professional athletes, which means Kyrie Irving, a top player for the Brooklyn Nets who was unable to play at home because he opted out of the Covid vaccination, can now play. Santa Cruz County closed the vaccination site at Felton Community Hall March 9 after giving 2,000 vaccinations and referred residents to the newly opened Santa Cruz Community Health office in Ben Lomond. On March 27, the county closed the vaccine clinic at the old Watsonville City Hall, where 20,000 vaccinations were given. New Covid cases from the less deadly Omicron variant peaked in January and have plummeted nationwide, in California and locally. See the federal Center for Disease Control map showing most counties green for low transmission except for the center of South Dakota and eastern Montana, where cases are high. On March 23, vaccine-maker Moderna reported positive results — no severe cases, hospitalizations, or deaths — in two clinical trials for children under 6 — and said it would ask the Food and Drug Administration to authorize its Covid-19 vaccine for emergency use authorization for those children, who have not been eligible for vaccines. Cases of Covid cases decreased 43.7% for kids 6 to 23 months, and 37.5% for kids 2 to 6. At the outset, the FDA called for vaccines to cut infection by at least 50%. A new Omicron variant called BA.2 “appears to be about 50% more transmissible than the original omicron strain BA.1, according to UC Davis Health. “Preliminary data suggests omicron BA.1 causes the same severity of disease and symptoms, but it’s affecting younger people more.” Two Years wo years after the pandemic began, the state Department of Public Health reports hospitalizations down from 20,000 at the peak of the Omicron surge in January to 1,600, and test positivity, 23% in January, now 1.4%. Santa Cruz County has 6 hospitalizations, including 2 in intensive care, 546 active cases, down from 10,000 at the peak, and three more deaths, bringing the total to 259. The dashboard is updated on Monday and Thursday. Underlying conditions were a factor in 19 of the 20 most recent local deaths during the peak of the highly contagious and thought-to-be-mild Omicron variant.

Soquel Schools est positivity for the Santa Cruz County Office of Education, which reports testing for public schools, is 1.11 percent, lower than the state. The state’s guidance to schools and childcare facilities: After March 11, masks are not required but are strongly recommended. “All community members have a right to make different choices with regard to recommended masking, and it is imperative that we respect personal choice and treat each other with respect and kindness,” posted Dr. Faris Sabbah, Santa Cruz County Superintendent of Schools. Soquel schools report 8 active student cases and zero staff cases in March, the lowest in the Omicron surge. New Brighton Middle School has 3 student cases. Main Street Elementary and Santa Cruz Gardens Elementary each have 2 student cases. Soquel Elementary has 1 student case. Young Children arents anxious to have shots for their younger children under 5 have been waiting for Pfizer and BioNTech to gather more data on whether a third dose is effective. Pfizer initially applied for emergency use authorization for young children for two doses. Mary Holland, president and general counsel of Children’s Health Defense, contends there is no COVID emergency for children under 5 years old. Children have a 99.995% recovery rate, and a body of medical literature indicates that “almost zero” healthy children under 5 have died from COVID, according to Holland, who cited studies in Germany, England and Wales. Myocarditis n a 2022 report in the Journal of American Medical Association online, Dr. Matthew Oster of the CDC reported the government’s VAERS database received 1,991 reports of myocarditis after one dose of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccine and 1,626 met the CDC’s definition for probable or confirmed myocarditis. Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart, which can lead to clots, a stroke or heart attack. Oster’s conclusion: “The risk of myocarditis after receiving mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines was increased across multiple age and sex strata and was highest after the second vaccination dose in adolescent males and young men. This risk should be considered.”

T The latest deaths were people 65 and older, two with underlying conditions. The county website lists vaccination status in death as “yes” or “no.” The most COVID fatalities in the county occurred in January 2021, when vaccines were not available and 22 people died in one week. For the two-year anniversary, Dignity Health Dominican Hospital recognized frontline workers for their dedication by lighting up the front of the hospital blue. “These past two years have been difficult for all of us, especially the families and loved ones of those we have lost,” said Dr. Gail Newel, Santa Cruz County health officer. “I want to thank everyone who made sacrifices — everyone who wore a mask to protect themselves and others, employees and employers who kept everyone as safe as possible, parents and students who navigated distance learning — to get us through these last two years.” County Public Health reported: • 335,958 PCR tests • 122,890+ antigen tests distributed • 535,746 doses of vaccine given • 998,295 masks distributed • 61 pop-up vaccination clinics • 30,000 + calls answered by the county’s Covid-19 call center. • 668 vaccinations to homebound individuals On March 15, registered nurses at Sutter Health picketed at 15 facilities including the Santa Cruz VNA, frustrated that contract negotiations since June led to “little to no movement on key issues.” Issues include “safe staffing,” investing in personal protective equipment and plans to prevent violence in the hospitals, the last two mandated by the state. Sutter spokeswoman Emma Dugas said, “We remain focused on reaching a shared resolution.” County supervisors have chosen five members for the board of the Pajaro Valley Health Care District Project, the local consortium awarded the bid to buy Watsonville Community Hospital, which has 620 employees, and shares the treatment of Covid-19 patients with Dominican Hospital. To donate to the consortium, see

https://www.pvhdp.org/

Fourth Shot? n March 13, the chief executive of Pfizer, which made one of the vaccines, said fully vaccinated people will need a fourth shot this year. In an interview on “Face the Nation,” on CBS, Pfizer Chairman and CEO Albert Bourla said a fourth dose — a second booster — is necessary. “The protection that you are getting from the third, it is good enough, actually quite good for hospitalizations and deaths,” he said. “It’s not that good against infections, but doesn’t last very long.” Fully vaccinated means having two shots (Pfizer or Moderna) or one Johnson & Johnson shot. All were developed for the initial Covid-19 coronavirus. For Omicron, a booster shot is needed. Booster shots are 90 percent effective against preventing Omicron hospitalizations, according to the federal Centers of Disease Control. Public health officials say the scientific consensus is that Covid vaccines are safe, but some are skeptical about relying on science from drug-makers, which saw profits rise in 2021. They point to the U.S. government database, https://vaers. hhs.gov/, where health care providers are to report adverse events after a vaccine. The reporting site was created after Congress passed a law in 1986 protecting vaccine manufacturers from civil personal injury lawsuits and wrongful death lawsuits resulting from vaccine injuries. After Covid arrived, Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar invoked the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act, a 2005 law that allows the HHS secretary to provide legal protection to companies making or distributing critical medical supplies such as vaccines unless there’s “willful misconduct” by the company, according to a report by CNBC.

“COVID Update” page 9

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / April 2022 / 7

COMMUNITY NEWS

Second Harvest Holiday Drive: More than 5 Million Meals!

acing a second year of pandemic upheaval, Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County surpassed its goal of raising enough money during its Holiday Food & Fund Drive to deliver 5 million meals to those in need. On March 3, its first in-person indoor event in more than two years, the 50-year-old food bank announced that the community raised the equivalent of 5,025,166 healthy meals. The campaign ran from Nov. 4, 2021, to Jan. 15, aiming to meet a need for food that had doubled in the pandemic from 55,000 to 110,000 people a month. Each dollar helps Second Harvest deliver four meals. Recognized local businesses include Martinelli’s, Fleet Feet, SUP Shack., Santa Cruz County Bank and Universal Audio. S. Martinelli & Co., which makes the Gold Medal apple juice in Watsonville, made a company record-setting donation: Nearly 87,000 meals. “I’m extremely proud of the Martinelli’s team for embracing this campaign and setting a donation record,” said Gun

Ruder, president and CEO of S. Martinelli & Co. “We are committed to doing all that we can to provide nourishment to those who need it most.” The company sponsors the eyecatching Second Harvest trucks that deliver food to its partners. Throughout the year, Martinelli’s donates its award-winning juices and sparkling ciders, which are 100% juice made from U.S. grown fresh apples without added sweeteners or chemical preservatives. “The Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County relies on the generous and ongoing support of our corporate partners, like Martinelli’s,” said Richelle Noroyan, corporate and community relations director, Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County. Big Step anta Cruz County Bank won the Big Step Award, collecting the equivalent of 32,060 healthy meals — an increase of 12,000 over the prior year, thanks to the generosity of its customers, employees, and Board of Directors.

8 / April 2022 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Trudie Ransom hosts the Harbor Witches Paddle fundraiser. “We’ve been acutely aware of the the 9th annual Run for Pie, a 5K race on extraordinary need for support, heightened Thanksgiving. In 2020, when the Lighted Boat Parade and amplified by the pandemic,” said Krista Snelling, Santa Cruz County Bank president was cancelled, Trudie Ransom, owner of and CEO. “We’re so grateful to be part of this the SUP Shack, hosted the Santa SUP at the hugely successful campaign to fight food inse- Santa Cruz Harbor, attracting 60 people in perfect weather and raising $2,000 for curity. Our entire community stepped up!” In Scotts Valley, Universal Audio, Second Harvest. In 2021, Ransom upped her efforts, employees of the award-winning professional recording hardware and software hosting the 10th annual Harbor Witches company, raised $7,891 for meals — and Paddle, aiming to raise $1,000 for Second the company matched that amount for a Harvest. More than 30 people showed up in their witch’s finest and paddled around total donation of $15,782. At Fleet Feet Aptos, Aubrey Curl, the the harbor. operating partner, said the running store “5 Million Meals” page 10 raised more than $4,000 by sponsoring

“Sliced Bread” from page 6 Modern factory breads are made from processed flour, from which the process of sifting and bleaching has removed all the vital nutrients. Then all that good stuff is sold separately as bran or as cattle feed. When first introduced to white bread, Europeans saw it as an emblem of status. It has taken a few hundred years for today’s artisan bakers to remind us that browner bread is better for us. Indeed, most white flour has been milled to be lacking in all the heart-healthy parts of grains. Could it be that our cows are eating better than we are? Artisan bakers have also reminded us that, when bread is sold and purchased in an unsliced loaf, it retains its freshness longer. You can slice it thick or thin as any meal demands. Sliced bread has always carried a backhanded suggestion of ecology: Less waste because you can always toast that last slice. What it’s done, in

reality, is made us forget just how many ways we can use our stale bread. By storing a hearty peasant loaf in a paper bag to let it dry out and prevent it from molding, daysold bread can be made into breadcrumbs or croutons. We can tear it up and put it in our soup or make bread pudding. Sliced bread has given birth to toast— the bourgeoise act of wasting resources by cooking something twice. I’m as guilty as everyone else. I love toast. (There, I said it. Don’t tell my wife.). But — as I often joke with her — anything can taste good if it’s toasted and slathered with enough butter. Even cardboard. Finally, you can imagine how much water has been wasted in rinsing off plates for the dishwasher — dishes which, in a perfect universe, would have been cleaned at the table, as the French do, with a piece of crust and crumb. Feel free to email me at joe@gocapitola. com and I’ll send you my favorite recipe for using sliced white bread: Spiadini— Mozzarella en Carozza. n

COMMUNITY NEWS

Russia Invades Ukraine; Record Gas Prices, $400 Rebate?

By Jondi Gumz

on’t expect a gas tax holiday to make filling up your tank less painful — $6 a gallon since Russian president Vladimir Putin ordered his military forces to invade Ukraine on Feb. 24 — but Gov. Newsom has an $9 billion idea, a $400 rebate for car owners for up to two cars plus $750 million for free bus and train fare for three months. The Legislature must approve. Monday’s vote on an initiative by Assembly member Kevin Kiley, R-Rocklin, was 40 in favor — one short of the 41 yes votes need — 18 opposed, and 18 did not vote. Democrats do not

“COVID Update” from page 7 This lowers the cost of immunizations, and the protection lasts until 2024. Dr. Pamela Popper of Ohio has sued HHS, FDA and CDC concerning vaccines for kids under 16, and hopes to get discovery, the point at which both sides can get evidence. Updates are at https://

makeamericansfreeagain.com/

California reports 83.8% of residents age 5 and up have had at least one shot. On the CDC Covid tracker, Santa Cruz County reports 90.3% of residents age 5 and up have at least one shot and 82% fully vaccinated. Proposed Bills o track the Covid-19 bills proposed by California lawmakers see https://

T leginfo.legislature.ca.gov

AB 1993: To mandate vaccines for all employees and independent contractors — and require employers to verify their workers are immunized. Senate Bill 1479: To mandate Covid testing plans and require the California Department of Public Health to help school districts develop them. Senate Bill 871:To end a personal belief exemption in the state’s student vaccine mandate. Senate Bill 866: To allow children 12 and older to get COVID vaccines without parental consent. Omicron Less Deadly he assumption is Omicron, the most easily transmissible variant of the Covid-19 coronavirus, quickly drove the increase in January and the decline in February and March. The California Department of Public Health estimates Omicron comprises 91% of cases statewide but does not have a breakdown of Omicron hospitalizations or deaths. Not all COVID-19 cases requiring hospitalization are sequenced, and the

want to suspend the gas tax, which was increased in 2017 to fund road improvements statewide. Russia reports 1,300 soldiers killed since the invasion began, while NATO estimates 7,000 to 15,000 have died. The U.N. Human Rights Office confirmed 925 civilians have been killed and 1,496 injured. And 3.6 million people have fled. At Chevron in Capitola, the price of regular unleaded is $5.99 per gallon -Aptos Safeway, $5.49, Arco Aptos, $6.05 and Chevron Aptos, $6.39. “Gas Prices” page 10

proportion of cases due to the Omicron variant that die is still being determined. Omicron is deadly than Delta, which raged in 2021. Santa Cruz County reports 259 Covid deaths, up from 225 as of Dec. 15, before Omicron was confirmed on Dec. 16 and 17. One statistic is similar: 79% to 81% of those who died had pre-existing conditions. Why do people fear Omnicron? They may have a pre-existing condition (diabetes, obesity, asthma, high blood pressure). Half of Americans do, so they are at higher risk for severe Covid illness. So are people 85 and older. Some people who got Covid experience “long Covid,” with fatigue and brain fog months afterward. A 2022 study in the journal Cell by researchers following more than 200 patients found many acute Covid patients had low cortisol, which could be addressed. Testing anta Cruz County Office of Education, with Inspire Diagnostic, has provided 385,800 tests. Cases peaked at 4,407 on Jan. 27, dropping to 150 on March 24. The 14-day positivity rate, 12.25% on January, is down to 1.11%. The County Office of Education offers drive-though testing for students, staff and families at these locations: Cabrillo College, Aptos, Parking Lot K, Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 E. Lake Ave., Watsonville, Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Santa Cruz County Office of Education, 399 Encinal St., Santa Cruz, Monday to Friday, 2 to 5 p.m. School staff have rapid response antigen tests, courtesy of the County Office

of Education, and schools are providing more for home use. Directions are at https://drive.

google.com/file/d/1U8AdsSyH14sD vrjD6T25krhvOFRFsuXs/view For test options see: https://tinyurl. com/get-tested-santa-cruz.

Based on federal recommendations, the state shortened the isolation time for those testing positive from 10 days to five days. Schedule booster shots at https:// myturn.ca.gov/ or by asking your local doctor and pharmacies. For local vaccine providers, visit www.santacruzhealth. org/coronavirusvaccine. For help scheduling an appointment, call the Community Bridges Helpline at 831-219-8607 or 831-440-3556 (English, Spanish, Mixteco and Triqui). For local information on COVID-19, go to

www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus

or call (831) 454-4242 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. n •••

Total COVID cases: 546

••• COVID Deaths: 259 As of March 24 Age 85 and older: 110 • 75-84: 61 • 65-74: 46 60-64: 15 • 55-59: 4 • 45-54: 10 35-44: 8 • 25-34: 5 Underlying Conditions Yes: 209 • No: 50 Race White 147 • Latinx 89 • Asian 16 Black 3 • Amer Indian 1 Hawaiian 1 • Another 2 Gender Men: 133 • Women: 126 Location At facility for aged: 115 Not at a facility: 144

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / April 2022 / 9

COMMUNITY NEWS

Mayor Proclaims March 15 Equal Pay Day T he United Nations first observed Equal Pay Day Sept. 18, 2020, estimating that women earn 23 percent less than men globally. According to Capitola Mayor Sam Storey, March 15 symbolizes the time in Sam Storey 2022 when the wages paid to American women catch up to the wages paid to men from the previous year. Here is his proclamation: WHEREAS, 59 years after the passage of the Equal Pay Act, women, especially

“Gas Prices” from page 9 In Scotts Valley, Union 76 — never a less expensive choice — raised the price to $5.39, then $5.89 and $5.99. On March 8, when President Joe Biden announced a ban on Russian oil, gas and energy imports to the U.S., California had the highest gas prices of all 50 states, according to GasBuddy.com, averaging $5.44 for a gallon of regular unleaded gas vs. $4.68 in Hawaii. Last year, the U.S. imported 245 million barrels of oil from Russia — about 8% of all imports, according to Associated Press — and that was up from 198 million barrels in 2020.

minority women, continue to suffer the consequences of unequal pay; and WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, women working full time, year-round in 2022 in the U.S. typically earned 83 percent of what men earned, indicating insufficient progress in pay equity; and WHEREAS, according to “Graduating to a Pay Gap,” a research report by the American Association of University Women, the gender pay gap is evident one year after college graduation, even after controlling for factors known to affect earnings, such as occupation, hours worked, and college major; and WHEREAS, nearly four in 10 mothers

are primary breadwinners in their households, and nearly two-thirds are primary or significant earners, making pay equity critical to families’ economic security; and WHEREAS, a lifetime of lower pay means women have less income to save for retirement and less income counted in a Social Security or pension benefit formula; and WHEREAS, in 2009, the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Act was signed into law, which gives back to employees their day in court to challenge a pay gap, although the Paycheck Fairness Act, which would have amended the Equal Pay Act closing loopholes and improving the law’s effectiveness, continues to languish in Congress; and

WHEREAS, fair pay strengthens the security of families today and eases future retirement costs while enhancing the American economy; and WHEREAS, March 15, symbolizes the time in 2022 when the wages paid to American women catch up to the wages paid to men from the previous year, Now therefore, Sam Storey, Mayor of the City of Capitola, do hereby proclaim March 15, 2022, to be “Equal Pay Day” in Capitola and urge the citizens of Capitola to recognize the full value of women’s skills and significant contributions to the labor force and further encourage businesses to conduct internal pay evaluations to ensure women are being paid fairly. n

The United Kingdom announced a ban on Russian oil the same day as Biden, but it won’t take effect until 2023. Russian oil makes up 4% of the UK supply. Shell said it would stop buying Russian crude oil on the spot market, and McDonald’s said it would temporarily close its 850 fast-food restaurants in Russia. During his State of the Union address March 1, Biden said he would release 30 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, but that didn’t stop the national average price of gasoline from rising to $4.213 per gallon. California has a hefty gas tax, 51 cents per gallon, and due for a hike

July 1, with the tax revenue for improving roads. Soaring gas prices could mean political fallout as this is an election year, giving voters an opportunity to cast ballots on June 7 and Nov. 8. Newsom proposed to skip the threecent gas tax hike in July, but Democrats were not on board. Kiley had proposed using some of the state’s budget surplus — estimated at $46.5 billion to $69.5 billion — to make up the $4.4 billion in revenue that would be lost during a six-month gas tax holiday. Florida legislators agreed to a gas tax holiday for one month: October. Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican, had

proposed a gas tax holiday for five months. The Florida gas tax is 27 cents per gallon, and unleaded gas costs $4.18 per gallon. For Santa Cruz County and other parts of the state where tourism is a major part of the economy, the big question is: How will these record gas prices affect families who drive from the Bay Area and Central Valley? And if they decide to drive here for a visit, how will higher gas prices affect their spending at local restaurants and attractions? In 2020, Exxon, Shell, Chevron and BP posted huge losses, about $70 billion, and in 2022, they reported $70.69 billion in profit. n

“5 Million Meals” from page 8 “For an hour, all you could hear was swished of the paddleboards and cackling of crazy witches,” she said. For the Santa SUP in December, 20 people came despite cooler weather, raising $1,000 for Second Harvest. Many smaller organizations were vital to the fundraiser -- and local institutions delivered in a major way. Twin Lakes Church in Aptos created the “Acts of Kindness” initiative, assisting neighbors with hundreds of projects, and raising more than $300,000, enough for 1.2 million meals. UCSC Record C Santa Cruz shattered its previous records, raising the equivalent of 376,099 meals for Second Harvest, winning the President’s Cup award, presented to the public institution that raises the most. UCSC’s Staff Advisory Board runs the campus food drive. Second Harvest named Nathan McCall,

“But then, the Kliger family came in and gave a $35,000 gift and then another $20,000 gift on top of that,’’ McCall told the campus news report. “It was just incredible… Everything was almost the same and then there was this massively generous gift,” McCall said. Kliger explained the gifts this way: Tikkun olam, a concept in Judaism that means repair the world and the need to address food insecurity first before tackling other problems. Swishes for Dishes he Santa Cruz Warriors teamed up with Kaiser Permanente and The Athletes’ Corner on Swishes for Dishes, raising 50,280 meals for Second Harvest when the G League moved to Orlando for Covid safety in 2020-21. How? Santa Cruz donated 30 meals per point the Warriors scored during the season in Orlando. With a goal of 50,000 meals, the Sea Dubs surpassed that target and scored 1,676 points, totaling 50,280 meals for the Santa Cruz community. n

T Santa Cruz County Bank Staff

chairman of UCSC’s Staff Advisory Board and manager of HR Business Information Services, as one of its three Coordinators of the Year, describing him as “engaged, enthusiastic, and with an attention to detail that made UCSC’s food drive a great success.” A generous donation from former

10 / April 2022 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Campus Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor David Kliger, who retired in 2010, and his wife Rachel Kliger, put the campus over the top. In 2020, UCSC raised about $39,000 in its holiday food drive. In 2021, UCSC initially raised a little more, $39,090.

FEATURED COLUMNIST

The First People of Capitola

By Deborah Osterberg

he new Capitola Historical Museum exhibition, “Perspectives – Capitola in the Eye of the Beholder” explores an array of perspectives of Capitola through both the art and words of its beholders, past and present. In addition to artwork drawn from the museum’s permanent collection, the exhibition will include a new painting. On Saturday, April 2, from noon to 2 p.m.) the museum will host a public reception to unveil a painting by local artist, Ann Thiermann, which depicts Indigenous people gathering sea life along what we know today as Capitola Beach and Lagoon. This is my 5th major research project on the aspect of Native American culture in California. I worked to carefully depict each aspect of fishing practiced by local Native American tribes who lived in Capitola before contact with the Spaniards. The painting entitled, “The First People of Capitola Fishing & Foraging at the Beach and Lagoon,” commissioned by the City of Capitola, will be displayed as part of the 2022 exhibition. The CapitolaSoquel area is the ancestral homeland of

Aptos artist Ann Thiermann works on her mural for Capitola. A perpetual student and teacher, the Aptos, Cajastaca, and Uypi people. The Capitola Historical Museum will continue Ms.Thiermann’s work reflects her clasto include Indigenous history and stories, sical training, including a BA and MFA in past and present, in all of its future annual painting and drawing, and three years classical figurative work at the Art Students’ exhibitions.

League. An experienced college educator, Ann teaches fundamental skills in drawing and pastel through Cabrillo and Cabrillo Extension. Ms. Thiermann also offers workshops in the Southwest and abroad. I love painting on location for the chance to hear and smell nature and watch the subtle changes in the light. Stretching a light effect across my landscape paintings gives me the same joy I feel when I craft musical phrases on the organ or piano. As a classical pianist/ organist, currently at Messiah Lutheran and St. John’s of Aptos, I also strive to engage the viewer with the flow of color and line, akin to musical expression. Nationally known for her Native American murals, Ms. Thiermann has created five major murals for libraries, museums, and California State Parks plus over 70 natural history murals throughout Northern California in both private and public venues. She creates landscapes and figurative work that portray a vitality, historical vision, and sense of place. “First People” page 14

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Cal Fire CZU Chief Welcomes Volunteers

“Dependable Service, Affordable Quality”

By Jondi Gumz

al Fire CZU Chief Nate Armstrong, who is new in that post, welcomes volunteers. “We always need more volunteers!” he told the Times via email. “To be totally honest, they’re getting to be harder and harder to keep just due to life’s demands but we always appreciate the help with recruiting however we can. Santa Cruz County Volunteers in training. Fire Battalion Chief Jed When does that training take place? Wilson explains who can volunteer, where, For the Fire Academy it takes and everything in between. place on weekends and on Wednesday How many volunteers do you have now? How does that compare with pre-pandemic? evenings. Once completed with the We have a roster of 75 volunteer fire- Academy, volunteer trainings are held fighters within the county. These numbers two weekday evenings and a Saturday have been consistent year to year, we are every month. Is there a form that people use to sign up? always looking for new volunteers and are Information on becoming a volunteer striving for a goal of around 100 volunteers. What is the motivation for your volunteers? can be found on our website, www.santacruzcountyfire.com/, the The motivation process can be found of the volunteer within the volunteer covers a wide opportunities section. spectrum. Many are We recommend that there to give back to if someone is interthe community which ested in becoming a they are a part of, live volunteer that they in, while others are visit their local county using it as a building fire station and attend block for a career in a training to get a feel the Fire Service. Volunteers work a water tender. for the opportunity. Sometimes after Is there a deadline to sign up? visiting a training, some find that it’s not Volunteers’ recruitment is a yearthe opportunity for them, but there are many other opportunities offered within round process, with an Academy being held annually around January through the communities to volunteer. These included, but are not limited April. This Academy is conducted jointly to Fire Wise Programs, Fire Safe Counsels and Community Emergency Response with a majority of the other fire agencies within Santa Cruz County. Teams (CERT). This provides the volunteers an opporHow much training is required? The medical portion is 40 hours of tunity for a wider range of instruction and instruction, and the Fire Academy is cur- working with agencies they will work with on future incidents. n rently around 330 hours of instruction.

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“First People” from page 11

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Twelve of her historical and playful murals grace Santa Cruz, from “Santa Cruz 1911” on Locust to “Ohlone Ways” at the Natural History Museum, to “Tugged In,” on Broadway in Seacliff. Four playful utility boxes found at Rancho Del Mar Shopping Center, sunflowers at Rodeo Gulch/ Soquel and “Together” at State Park/Cabrillo College Drive bring smiles to pedestrians and drivers. Her commissioned portraits hang at Santa Cruz City Hall and in private homes. All of Ms. Thiermann’s murals are deeply researched for accuracy. Although this image [for the Capitola Historical Museum] isn’t my typical mural size, the level of detail and historical research reflects my working process when I create natural history murals.

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Detail from Ann Thiermann’s Capitola mural.

A native Californian, her landscape paintings reflect a love and investigation of specific flora and fauna and seasonal changes in our beautiful Monterey Bay environment. She gained insight on the local archeological record from Cabrillo College professor Dustin McKenzie and consulted with local experts Mark Hylkema, archaeologist for the California State Parks and Pat Coulston of the California Department of Fish and Game. She took numerous photographs and made several sketches of models of Native heritage on the beach portraying traditional fishing and foraging activities. In the Capitola painting Ms. Thiermann also … wanted to show the color and beauty of the wonderful sea life that was so abundant along our shores. Today, at low tide, there is ample opportunity to discover shellfish and fish among the bedrock. We also have examples of humpback whales feeding on anchovies close to shore and driving schools of fish up onto the sands. Her Capitola painting is set “… when the November rains opened the … lagoon to fresh water and Soquel [C]reek flowed out to the sea …[ushering] the return of steelhead to their spawning sites up stream.” We hope you join us on April 2 for the unveiling of Ms. Thiermann’s painting or come view the painting and the rest of the Capitola Historical Museum’s 2022 exhibition. The admission-free Capitola Historical Museum is open every Friday through Sunday from noon until 4 p.m. The “Perspectives” exhibition will run through December 2022. The Capitola Historical Museum is the little red building at 410 Capitola Ave., next to Capitola City Hall. Contact the museum at 831-464-0322. ••• Deborah Osterberg is Capitola Museum curator.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Boys & Girls Club Chief Bob Langseth to Retire A fter 38 years with Boys & Girls Clubs and the last decade as executive director in Santa Cruz County, Bob Langseth is retiring. He is going to relax and spend time with his grandchildren. Langseth has had a storied career with the clubs up and down the state. He began his career as a college student in Chula Vista and after graduating from San Diego State University he moved north to Fallbrook where he was program and assistant director for six years before becoming an executive director for the first time in 1985.

Bob Langseth

Langseth has had a storied career with the [Boys & Girls Clubs] up and down the state.

He then moved to the Bay Area and led the San Leandro Boys & Girls Club and then the San Francisco Boys & Girls Clubs as executive director. Board president Teresa Swart said, “Bob’s contributions to our community have been vast — from establishing Live Oak, Scotts Valley Clubhouses and remodeling the Santa Cruz clubhouse to everything in between. Bob’s vision brought back a robust co-ed basketball program including Biddy Ball for 1st and 2nd graders, new teen program areas, and an emphasis in supplemental education programs including strong partnerships with local school districts.” She added, “Our single downtown clubhouse was serving about 130 youth per day back in 2011, with a total enrollment of 1,000 members. By 2019, the last year prior to the pandemic, our three clubhouses were serving 435 youth per day and had over 2,600 members.” The board of directors is working closely with Langseth on a smooth transition via a comprehensive, fair and equitable search. n ••• To learn more, visit https://boysand girlsclub.info/about-us/careers

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BUSINESS PROFILE

The Skylight Place

By June Smith

f, like most of us, you have been working from home during the pandemic, has your family noticed the need for a renovation? If so, who should you call? The Skylight Place, that’s who! The Skylight Place is a full-service one-stop glass shop. Insured, licensed & bonded, they offer residential and commercial glass repair, shower doors, skylights, window screens. and window replacement. Their mantra … “We Cut Glass, Not Quality.” The business was founded by Rick Burger, assisted by son Paul Eastman, who says, “The pandemic has actually increased our business. When the shutdown first started, we were really slow, but a few weeks after, we noticed an increase in business, with everyone working from home. Suddenly fixing up the house was now the priority instead of taking vacations. We have hired four new employees since Covid started, and yeah, we did take advantage of the Paycheck Protection Program loan. It really helped us make up the losses we had when the pandemic started.” “Supply chains are a constant issue,” Burger adds. “My lead times for windows are now anywhere from eight to 28 weeks, while before Covid they were from two to eight weeks.” Often, his manufacturers are not shipping for the complete job. “With the cost of materials and inflation on the rise I see it might be more challenging for many homeowners to do home improvements but at some point, it has to level out,” he says. Servicing Santa Cruz County since 1971, The Skylight Place offers prompt, reliable service, priding themselves on expert installation and getting the job done right the first time. When you visit their shop on Capitola Road you will be greeted

“With the cost of materials and inflation on the rise I see it might be more challenging for many homeowners to do home improvements but at some point, it has to level out.”

— Rick Burger, Founder

Getting the Job Done Right

Courtney Barrett is pleased with her bathroom mirrors. by Butter, the resident Malti-Poo, who when escorting you out, easily entices you to take him home. The shop features major brands, including Cardinal shower enclosures, Velux skylights, Marvin windows and doors, Western Windows Systems, All Weather Architectural Aluminum, and the highly regarded Milgard windows and doors. The owners say they are proud the Milgard company approached them to feature their products. A commercial property served several years ago was the Marriott Fairfield Inn and Suites on 41st Avenue in Capitola. More recently, they have provided entry doors for Dignity Health in Watsonville and shower doors for Googleplex, the corporate Google headquarters in Mountain View. Matt Slatter, president, Slatter Construction Inc, says,” We love The Skylight

18 / April 2022 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Place and have worked with them for decades on projects for the Boardwalk, Palo Alto Medical, New Leaf Market, and dozens of others. We started working with them when my dad was president in the ‘80s and ‘90s. I took over in 2020 after my brother passed away and we still continue a great working relationship with them.” During a bathroom remodel, Courtney Barrett and her husband Michael of Santa Cruz contacted The Skylight Place. She hadn’t found mirrors she liked to fit the space, and Michael suggested the shop as he had purchased mirrors there for his gym in the past. She found the staff to be helpful, asking which thickness she wanted and explaining that thicker mirrors have a truer reflection. She chose the 1/4-inch thickness and is very pleased with them.

Another local couple, Elizabeth Charlton and Jim Furlong had the Skylight team install mirrors on two entire walls when turning their extra upstairs bedroom into a gym. Furlong said, “The guys pulled up with the mirrors on glass racks and carried them up with giant suction cup handles. They installed them all with perfect measurements, added trim, and today they are a main feature in Elizabeth’s ‘She Room’ which she uses for her Zumba practice.” They have referred the business many times over the years. n ••• The Skylight Place • 4850 Capitola Road, Capitola • 831-476-2023 Hours: Monday-Friday 9-4 Online estimates and onsite service available: http://www.skylightplace.com/ Credit cards accepted

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / April 2022 / 19

20 / April 2022 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Cashew Cream Cake By Wendy Ballen

originally discovered this recipe on a website called My New Roots by Sarah Britton. It looked wonderful so I tried it out, and it was!! I was raised by two wonderful bakers, my mother Jeanne and my Aunt Maxine. There was never a shortage of cookies and cakes in our house. Birthday cakes were wonderfully embellished with M & M’s and chocolate chips! As a young adult, I became more interested in eating healthy, so instead of baking with white flour, white sugar, and Crisco like my mentors, I learned how to bake with healthier, natural ingredients. From 1980-1984, I worked as a baker at Staff of Life in Santa Cruz. I specialized in wedding cakes and developed a few cookies and treats still sold there today. Just graduating from UC Santa Cruz with a BA in Art, I also had two Cake Art Shows at the Louden Nelson Center in 1982 and 1983. I have made this raw, dairyless cheesecake dozens and dozens of times and have embellished it many different ways. It’s always been a big hit with friends and family! It takes some patience and effort, but I guarantee it’s worth it!

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Ingredients Crust 1/2 cup raw almonds (pecan or walnuts will also work) 1/2 cup soft Medjool dates (or dried apricots) ¼ tsp. sea salt Filling 2 cups raw cashews, soaked for at least 5 hours or overnight Juice of 1 lemon I tsp. vanilla 1/3 cup coconut oil 1/3 cup honey 1/2 cup raspberries (frozen and thawed raspberries work best) “Cake” page 23

COMMUNITY NEWS

Fundraising Goal Met for New Clinics at 1500 Capitola Road S Fed. Government to Fund $1M for Dental Equipment

anta Cruz Community Health and Dientes Community Dental Care, with Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, announce they have met their goal to raise $20.5 million for their new health centers in Live Oak opening this fall. Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley) provided more exciting news: $1 million to cover dental equipment costs for Dientes’ new clinic was approved March 15 as part of the fiscal year 2022 appropriations bill. The health centers at 1500 Capitola Road will include a new 11-chair dental clinic to serve 6,000 low-income patients a year and a 20,000-square-foot primary care center to serve 10,000 patients a year. “New Clinics” page 23

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / April 2022 / 21

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Cabrillo President Responds to Pride Flag Burning

Letter to the Community from Matt Wetstein

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his morning (March 5), College leadership was made aware that the Pride Flag that had been displayed at El Patio in Watsonville was burned overnight. A student worker found the flag next to Building B. A police report has been filed, we are requesting security camera footage, and are working with the Watsonville Police Department to ensure that this act of vandalism is investigated as a hatemotivated crime. This is deeply upsetting and we take this matter very seriously, as the second act of vandalism and hate to occur on Cabrillo’s campus within the past two weeks. It is especially disturbing, because students love that flag, and several students came to El Patio specifically to take their photo with the flag. I would like to repeat the message that I sent out last week: Cabrillo is a community that values diversity and promotes a safe and equitable environment for all students, faculty and staff, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. There is absolutely no place at

Cabrillo for intolerance nor hatred of any kind. We welcome, support, and stand as allies with our members of the LGBTQ+ community. If you See Something — Say Something. If anyone sees any act of vandalism — especially one that is hate motivated — in our community spaces and forums, please make a report at Cabrillo’s Just Report It! webpage or call the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s non-emergency line at 831-471-1122. Reports and consultations can also be directed to Cabrillo’s Title IX / Civil Rights Compliance Officer Anna Bartkowski at anbartko@cabrillo.edu or 831-477-3373. Through the fast actions of our Facilities Department, I am pleased to report that a new, larger Pride Flag is already being flown on the flagpole at the Watsonville Center. I have ordered that the Gay Pride Flag be displayed on both campuses for the next 30 days. Thank you Jon Salisbury and team.

New Pride flag at Cabrillo’s Watsonville Center

“Pride Flag” page 26

NATIONAL NEWS

EarthDay.Org Calls for a Global Plastics Treaty P lastic pollution is one of the most fundamental issues threading the health of humans, animals, and ecosystems worldwide. Micro-plastics are found everywhere, from mountaintops to the deepest oceans — and now even inside human beings. Unfortunately, addressing the crisis is beyond the ability of any single country, and despite the growing global consensus, no multilateral efforts have existed to combat this issue until now. In 2018, EARTHDAY.ORG launched a global campaign, End Plastic Pollution, to eliminate single use plastics and support regulations for the disposal of plastics. These efforts have led to increased actions by activists, corporations, and governments worldwide. Last year, Peru and Rwanda introduced a new draft resolution to create a global legal framework regulating the use of plastic. The fifth session of the United Nations Environmental Assembly (UNEA-5.2) agreed in February to initiate negotiations on a global agreement to end plastic pollution.

“Cake” from page 20 1 oz. melted dark chocolate Garnishes Raspberry Sauce: I 10 oz. bag of frozen raspberries, thawed. Honey (sweeten to taste) Chocolate sauce: 1 bar of your favorite chocolate Fresh raspberries Directions First, put nuts and dates or apricots in a food processor with sea salt and pulse to chop until they are well processed but still a little bit coarse. The crust mixture should hold together if you squeeze a little with your fingers. Pour the crust into a 7” spring-form pan and press down firmly until the crust is evenly distributed. Next, combine the honey and coconut oil in a small saucepan. Use medium low heat until they are liquified. Then drain the soaked cashews. In the most powerful food processor/blender you own, (a Vitamix works best) place

“New Clinics” from page 21 Community Health is about halfway complete, windows going in, framing the second story, and working on the exterior. Follow the construction on the live camera: 1500capitolaroad.org/construction/ These state-of-the-art clinics will increase access to affordable health care in a neighborhood where 13% to 26% of Live Oak

together communities, governments, and corporations to meet these challenges through policy changes and innovation. EARTHDAY.ORG is calling on government leaders across the globe to:

• Negotiate a new legally binding global instrument on plastic pollution, including measures along the entire life cycle of plastic • Promote a circular economy action plan and ban single-use plastic • Establish a common structure that is consistent and complementary with national and regional action plans • Enhance investment planning and stimulate innovation to prevent plastic from entering any ecosystem • Support research and funding of innovations related to plastic alternatives “Plastics and climate are the most pressing issues facing our planet today — and both have ties to fossil fuels,” notes Kathleen Rogers, President of EARTHDAY. ORG. “We must — and we can — overcome these challenges through global action and innovation.” n ••• For more information on EARTHDAY. ORG’s plastic pollution resources, please visit: https://www.earthday.org/campaign/cleanup/

the cashew, honey-coconut oil mix, lemon vanilla layer of filling and smooth it juice, and vanilla, and blend on high until out. Cover the spring-form pan with a piece very smooth. If you have a Vitamix, use the of Saran Wrap. Place a tamper tool to help mix piece of foil over the top the ingredients. This and seal it well. Place in takes a few minutes to o you have a recipe that is a the freezer until solid. get smooth. family favorite? Or maybe one Raspberry Sauce After that, pour Put the bag of about 1/3 of the from your childhood you would like mixture into a small to share? The Capitola Soquel Times thawed raspberries in bowl. Add 2 oz. of will be publishing one recipe each a blender and blend until smooth. melted chocolate and issue from a community member. I like to pour blend it thoroughly. Feel free to add a little history to With a spatula, transfer the recipe if you want (approximately the blended berries the chocolate cashew 75 words). Every issue we will ran- into a fine mesh wire strainer and press cream onto the crust domly choose a recipe to publish. with a wooden spoon and smooth with the Find your favorite and send it to to remove the seeds. spatula. cathe@cyber-times.com today! It’s not necessary but Take another makes a very smooth third of the remaining vanilla cashew cream out and carefully add sauce. This mixture will be a little tart, so add honey or your preferred sweetener to taste. it on top of the chocolate layer. Chocolate Sauce Add 1/2 cup of thawed raspberries Break up a 3 oz. chocolate bar and to the remaining filling and blend on high until smooth. Pour on top the place it in a heatproof bowl. Bring about an

inch of water to a simmer in a saucepan. Set the heatproof bowl over the saucepan, making sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the bowl. Stir the chocolate until melted. Make sure not to get any water into the chocolate mixture. To serve, remove from freezer 30 minutes prior to eating. Run a smooth, sharp knife around the edges before opening up the spring-form pan. With the spring-form bottom intact, transfer the cake to a serving dish. Garnishing Drizzle some of the chocolate sauce over the top of the cake in an interesting pattern. Take the fresh raspberries and dip the bottom of each one in chocolate, and place them around the edge of the pie. Use a sharp knife to cut into wedges. Serves about 12-14 people, as it is very rich. Pour some of the raspberry sauce on the plate. Gently transfer a wedge of the cake onto the sauce. Feel free to add more of the chocolate sauce. Enjoy! n

Santa Cruz Community Health CEO Leslie Conner added, “Our community has come together in an extraordinary way to support this project. These new facilities provide a strong foundation for health, opportunity, and prosperity for people of all ages because of the generosity of our partners and neighbors.” “We are celebrating the good that happens when people work together to

improve access to critical services for all people, regardless of circumstance,” said Community Foundation Santa Cruz County CEO Susan True. “We are honored to have played a part … and so grateful for all the community members who have stepped forward to support it.” n ••• To learn more, visit: 1500CapitolaRoad.org

The move was endorsed by 700 civil society groups from 113 countries, creating an unprecedented momentum for change. Through its 2022 theme, Invest In Our Planet, EARTHDAY.ORG is bringing

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School District students are homeless, thousands of adults do not have a doctor, and 78% of adults on Medi-Cal do not have a dentist. “We are extremely grateful to Rep. Panetta,” said Dientes CEO Laura Marcus. “This is a significant step in addressing the urgent need for access to health care for our most vulnerable — those who face risks and adversities that pose lifelong threats to health, school success, and overall well-being.”

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / April 2022 / 23

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Report Card Notes: Roy Segura Retiring

By Scott J. Turnbull, Superintendent, Soquel Union Elementary School District

have traditionally used this space to focus on one particular area of our school district to write in-depth about. This time, I’m taking a different approach. Growing up and being a sports fan, I followed a sportswriter named Allan Malamud who wrote for the now-extinct Los Angeles Herald Examiner. He wrote an article called “Notes on a Scorecard,” and it was made up of many different, brief, somewhat random, reflections on the sports world as a whole. By adopting this format this month, my hope is to give interested readers highlights of what’s happening in our district. You can always delve deeper into particular subjects by checking out our website or calling the district office. What follows are my “Notes on a Report Card,” with a tip of the hat to Mr. Malamud. Our district is down to four board Roy Segura members for just a short while after Trustee Jennifer Izant Gonzales resigned last for our campuses. We will be replacing all month. First, please allow me to say what the windows on the older buildings at New an incredibly positive influence Ms. Izant Brighton Middle School, which is sure to Gonzales had in her tenure. She brought provide a big facelift for the campus. Air her wealth of knowledge and expertise conditioning units are being added in older as an educator herself to the board. She classrooms including those at Santa Cruz always put students and families first in her Gardens Elementary School, where things role as a board member and she sincerely get a bit warmer sometimes. Other projects cares about this community. She will now include power resiliency for our kitchen, have more time to spend with her beautiful Solar Photovoltaic shade structures to reduce family. Thank you for your service to the utility costs, and installing electric vehicle board and district, Jennifer. You are a class charging stations. Many of these projects act. For anyone who might be interested in will make our district greener in addition to filling that vacant seat, please look at our improving our facilities in general. board webpage for more information. We are in the process of updating our On the COVID-19 mitigation front, district’s mission statement. The existing our amazing school district community one is beautifully written and a district continues to pull through it together. We committee is seeking to capture the best continue to provide free onsite COVID-19 of our existing statement combined with PCR testing to all families who want their some new ideas with special emphasis on equity. I can’t wait to children to participate share the new mission during the school We are in the process of statement with you in day. I really want to updating our district’s mission the near future. express my apprestatement. The existing one Beginning in ciation to our County is beautifully written and a November, our board Office of Education for district committee is seeking to elections will now be their support with that capture the best of our existing under the “By-Trustee testing program. As statement combined with Area” approach as I’m sure you’ve heard, some new ideas with special opposed to a general masking in schools emphasis on equity. election. Over several went from “required” months, our board to “strongly recommended” by the California Department of studied this possible transition, hired a Public Health. Many of our students and demographer to draw up different map staff still wear masks and we have focused scenarios, and heard input from the public on “no bullying” for anyone’s personal before making a decision on a final map. choice regardless of their masking decision. On February 17, the Santa Cruz County There are lots of great infrastructure Committee on School District Organiprojects that are beginning or in the works zation approved SUESD’s transition to 24 / April 2022 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

a “by-trustee area” election, specifically Map Scenario 1, which you can find on our website. All of this was done with the California Voting Rights Act, and equity, in mind. It’s LCAP season! The LCAP, or Local Control and Accountability Plan, is the most important plan in our district. It identifies key goals and actions for the district and the allocation of certain fiscal resources connected to those goals and actions. We seek as much stakeholder input on the plan as humanly possible including staff, students, and parents. At our Board Meetings in June, the LCAP will be brought to our Board for review and, ultimately, consideration for approval. New student registration is now open! Registration information & procedures may be obtained from your neighborhood school. Your child must turn 5 on or before Sept. 1, 2022, to be eligible for kindergarten. If you have a child who turns 5 between Sept. 2, 2022 and Feb. 2, 2023, they are eligible for our Transitional Kindergarten program. The registration process for all grades, including TK, takes place at your neighborhood school (school of residence). Just call the district office if you have any questions. Santa Cruz Gardens Elementary has a Science and Gardening Emphasis, or SAGE, program that is growing every year. The program does not displace any other core subject but rather seeks to add reallife learning and nature to every subject. Learning does not have to happen within four walls. It can happen in nature, it can happen in a garden, and it often happens better in these settings. SAGE builds on children’s natural curiosity to learn about science where it really happens, outdoors. I wish we could pay our teachers and support staff a higher salary. SUESD is the lowest funded district in our county. In 2018 and 2020 we attempted to pass parcel taxes to help augment our salary schedules. It’s no secret the cost of living in our area continues to skyrocket. The funding we currently receive just doesn’t keep up. We will keep trying to find ways to pay our employees a salary more in line with the area’s cost of living but it is very challenging. New Brighton Middle School athletic teams have been back in business! It is such a joy to see our student-athletes competing in a more normalized environment. Volleyball, Track, Basketball, Golf, Flag Football, Wrestling, and more have all been in action. A big shout out to all our coaches

and to Athletic Director Enrique Dolmo for putting in the time and effort to make these opportunities for our students a reality. Go Vikings! We are starting our district’s first Dual Language Immersion program at Soquel Elementary School in 2022-23 with one kindergarten class. The program will roll up one class and grade level at a time for the next six years at the school. The target language is Spanish. Dual Language Immersion programs have proven to be one of the best ways to support English Megan McElroy learners, improve overall learning for all participants, and produce bilingual students. We are so excited to add this offering to our district programs. New Brighton Middle School Enriquue Dolmo is losing another teaching legend to retirement. Last year, longtime woodshop teacher David Brodkey retired. Now his longtime teaching neighbor, art teacher Roy Segura will be retiring at the end of this school year. Both of these gentlemen provided students with hands-on opportunities which are an incredibly important component of a well-rounded education. Mr. Segura’s gift was pulling the best art possible from each individual student. You will see lots of his students’ beautiful work around the school and in the community. To wrap things up, I invite you to visit the Heart of Soquel out behind Soquel Elementary School, by Soquel Creek, if you haven’t had a chance to do so. That whole area has undergone such a transformation. Our county did a beautiful job on the Heart of Soquel. The newer building at Soquel Elementary is so much more aesthetically pleasing than those old portables. Teacher Megan McElroy and other staff have been working hard on the new student garden adjacent to the field, which has been dedicated to long-time grounds specialist Don Meyers who passed away in 2021. You’ll see a plaque honoring Don near the gate between the Heart of Soquel and the school. n ••• Scott J. Turnbull is superintendent of Soquel Union Elementary School District.

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Strategically Thinking

Climate Change and the Future of Water By Rebecca Gold Rubin

e have just experienced the very dry months of January, February, and now also into March. These are months that should bring some of the highest rainfall of the season. The heavy rain last December was most welcome—but it doesn’t change the fact that we are in a continuing drought. This past January was the third driest January in 128 years on record! This drought is shaping up to be far worse than any in recent memory. In fact, it could be a drought of historic, unprecedented proportions. Even normal levels of rain don’t have an immediate impact on the groundwater basin – and the threat of additional drought conditions decreases that longer-term natural contribution to the groundwater. It’s clear, based on the vast preponderance of validated scientific study, that the lack of rain we are now facing is not an anomaly – it’s climate change and it is likely to continue to bring more extreme weather events in the future. Climate change greatly intensifies our water supply challenges and spotlights the critical need for new water sources to supplement our groundwater supply, which is already overdrafted and experiencing seawater contamination. Many municipalities, counties, and other government agencies at all levels are working to reduce the overall carbon footprint of communities throughout California and the world. The goal of those actions is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lessen or ultimately reverse climate change. Although necessary, those are mostly longer-term actions which face many obstacles. Here at the District, we are working strategically right now to directly and rapidly address one of the key impacts of climate change—a dramatically reduced level of rainfall coupled with more frequent drought years with bursts of intense storms. This results in less natural recharge and replenishment of the groundwater basin on which we solely rely on for our drinking water supply. District customers and many others along the coast have done a great job of conserving water. But it’s not enough to offset the lack of rain and decreased recharge of the Santa Cruz Mid-County groundwater basin, especially when it’s already critically overdrafted. The State declared this basin as unsustainable and set a mandate that

the basin be brought back into sustainable levels by 2040. The Pure Water Soquel project is now under construction. It will provide a drought-proof supply of purified water, to replenish the groundwater basin and prevent further seawater intrusion. Pure Water Soquel will help us to be resilient in the face of climate change and overdrafting and provide a sustainable water supply to support the future generations of our communities. We continue to also look at other options such as surface water and stormwater capture, but these supply options are dependent on rainfall. Implementing Pure Water Soquel is part of the District’s long-term planning for management of the groundwater basin, which really began decades ago as it became more and more clear that our groundwater was not at all the “unlimited” supply that many in those early days thought it was. As an organization, it’s important to continue to revise and update plans as conditions change, to assure we are carrying out the tasks necessary, on behalf of the community, that will position us all for a positive future. In 2015, the District engaged in a lengthy comprehensive, collaborative, community process to create the District’s formal “Mission Statement, Values, and Primary Organizational Goals,” which, along with the subsequent set of related strategies, formed the foundation and overarching direction of a Strategic Plan. Much has changed since 2015, and now in 2022 we are embarking on a strategic planning process to review and update, as needed, that earlier set of guiding documents to ensure our Strategic Plan best reflects our and our community’s understanding of circumstances today, and projections for the future. To carry out this process, the District will hold a board workshop on Saturday, April 2, to encourage and capture community and board input. We will also interview our Standing Committee members, stakeholders, and community leaders to gain their strategic perspectives and ideas. We’ll review community-generated input from the previous strategic planning process and from the 2020 Community Survey to help us evaluate whether we are on track, and what may have changed. This process will include

gathering input from District staff, through a variety of means. This process will result in a Draft Strategic Plan Update for review and public comment anticipated by late spring, that will help guide our agency’s path for the next several years. In light of climate change and its critical impacts to our groundwater basin,

it’s even more important that the District and the community work as partners for a reliable water supply, as we develop this updated Strategic Plan and work together toward a sustainable water future. n ••• As always if you have any questions or comments, you can reach out to me at outreach@soquelcreekwater.org.

Who am I?

ACROSS

1. Campus military org. 5. Pilgrimage to Mecca 8. 1968 hit “Harper Valley ____” 11. Turkish honorific 12. *I captained the Millennium Falcon in “Star Wars” 13. Inlet in Greenland 15. Map out 16. Pharaoh’s symbol 17. Austin Powers and Shrek to Mike Myers 18. *I developed the theory of relativity 20. Sailor’s hail 21. Lyric poem 22. Solar System center 23. Portable stairs

26. *I am Sgt. George Baker’s inept comic strip character 30. Mine deposit 31. Shape 34. Fairy tale cannibal 35. Feline sneakers 37. Lawyer group 38. *I have a coiled shell and eyes on stalks 39. Very dark black 40. Free from obstruction 42. ____ Aviv 43. Most buffoonish 45. Rest or hydration for common cold, e.g 47. Hot springs resort 48. “...he found a crooked sixpence upon a crooked ____” 50. Japanese stringed instrument 52. *I am a runaway slave, an abolitionist, and a best-selling author 55. Email destination

9. *I used to host a sports show with Mike Golic 10. Commercials 12. Buddhist’s enlightenment 13. Sham 14. *I am a WWE Champion, an actor, and my nickname is geology-related 19. Vision correctors, DOWN colloquially Do like Drake 22. Greek letters on Eye up and down campus Bangkok native 23. *My résumé includes Like preserved Fly Girl and “American peaches, sometimes Idol” judge Sharpened 24. CuraÁao neighbor Like Huck Finn’s dad, 25. Evil one e.g. 26. Fence board *Some people call me 27. Popular gemstone the Rocket Man 28. Shed tears *I starred as Pam in 29. *I am an American the “Meet the Parents” who became Princess movies of Monaco

56. Jasmine of “Aladdin,” e.g. 57. Food fish 59. Silly 60. Self-cleaning appliance 61. Ad staple 62. O in IOU 63. P in m.p.g. 64. Affirmative, colloquially 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

32. Harangue 33. Network with an eye 36. *My TV role became synonymous with a hair style 38. Perform at the bee 40. Canada’s neighbor 41. Beginning 44. Strong adhesive 46. Contemptibly small 48. Dry white Italian wine 49. Radio receiver 50. Dr. Seuss: “The more that you read, the more things you will ____” 51. Piercing woodwind 52. Water quantity 53. Loafer, e.g. 54. Adventure story 55. United Nations labor agency 58. Homer’s catchword © Statepoint Media

Answers on 31 »

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / April 2022 / 25

Star Gates of Spring Have Opened

“Pride Flag” from page 22

Esoteric Astrology • April 2022 • By Risa D’Angeles

he Star Gates of Spring, of Aries, have opened! Spring has arrived! Spring equinox (Sun at the equator at zero degrees Aries) begins the new spiritual/solar year. In Aries, “all things new” begin. New life emerges in our Northern Hemisphere. Aries is the “fire of the mind”, bringing forth new ideas that become new ideals within humanity. Aries is “electric green fire”, the fire in lightning storms usually experienced in Spring. All throughout Spring, the Solar Angel streams into Earth a fresh impulse of life and the Plan for the coming new year. And at the Full moon during Aries (April 16, the day before Easter), the Forces of Restoration and the Spirit of Resurrection flow into the Earth. These forces offer humanity a new “livingness” by restoring our moral, ethical and psychological health. Their “presence” supports the new Aquarian culture & civilization and the new Spiritual Materialism (Sharing Society) to emerge. They offer a new hope and vision for the new world to unfold. Archangel Raphael (the Christian name for Mercury or Hermes), the Healing Angel, begins to preside over the Earth at the equinox, bringing ARIES

So often your compassion and sympathy are so well hidden it’s thought perhaps you don’t possess these virtues. You do, but it takes tremendous effort to bring these forth and as spring unfolds, they will begin to unfold more and more. No longer can you draw the curtain on spiritual realities. No longer will we think you don’t have tender feelings. No longer can you push these away, believing they interfere with daily life. They are actually guideposts, talismans, amulets and protective lucky charms. And lifesaving. TAURUS

It is important to begin to assess your hopes, wishes and goals, all that is needed for the new era and the coming times. As you do, others will be reaching out to you from friends, family and groups asking for your professional sense and for direction. Nurturing and strengthening the ties within your group is a task needed at this time. Your work is valuable to the intelligent understanding of the times. The groups you interact with need nurturing, too. Can you assume that outward loving mantle of care? The color is all shades of blue. GEMINI

There’s a continued assessment and questioning as to what your purpose and work may be in and for the world. And a wondering about how you’re recognized. Soon there will be a new vitality and invigoration concerning your work and how you see your potential coming forth. Make a list of all the things you can do. Then list all that you hope to do and how you want to serve others. These lists will allow you to see a theme that creates greater self-identity. How do you want to be remembered? And what do you idealize? CANCER

Before graduating from my Master’s program in Psychology, I wrote a white paper on altruism. That word (altruism) has since then been part of my life. It appears now in the most unexpected times and place. I suggest you write a short paper on altruism, too, because it is part of and responsible for creating new philosophical ideas, attitudes and visions in your life from now on. No matter whether you travel or not, your mind is traveling far distances. Soon to the Wesak Valley when the great yearly ritual with the Buddha takes place. We will see you there.

healing and protection. He carries the Caduceus, staff of Mercury. It is written that each evening, Raphael gathers up all of humanity’s requests for healing, carrying them to heaven where he presents them before the throne of God. Here they are transformed into fragrant blossoms, which are then borne down to Earth by Raphael’s (Mercury’s) serving Angels. The flowers, scattered about where there is pain and sorrow, bring solace, care, beauty & comfort to those in need. Nature responding to the pathway & light of the sun. A faint blush of unfolding green can be seen (etherically). The daffodils are almost over. The tulips are growing an inch a day, reaching up to the Sun. Pisces (water) offers the past year to Aries (fire). We are now in the water/fire mysteries. The Sun moves northward now, from the equinox to the Tropic of Cancer And so also are the new/moon seeds — all gathered in the heart center, which is our equator. Spring is here. We are in the garden everyday now.

LEO

You will be thinking of accomplishing new creative projects, designs, forms, ideas and new endeavors, bringing forth new challenges, and new ways of utilizing your resources. Notice that your intuition and perception are very strong at this time. If you tune in quietly, you’ll know who is thinking about you and who loves you. You will tune into the Hierarchy, always seeking willing workers in the fields of earth. Concern about resources continues. However, soon this concern will fade away. Did you expect something that didn’t occur? VIRGO

It’s good to develop the skills of diplomacy, like an international ambassador. This skill helps re-define relationships and you can share your Mercury’s ability to communicate with a silver tongue. Everyone significantly needs kind and wise communication, especially in these polarizing times. Everyone feels a lack of support. Begin to support others and all that you give is returned. Be truly gracious. Don’t put on an act or act in a way that you think you should. Learn how to be authentically gracious. It has to do with coming from the heart of the matter. LIBRA

In between all your artistic endeavors, there will come a time to get down to business, to begin to be practical about every hour of the day and to establish routines that will handle the detail of a great change that is occurring in your life and in the lives of all of humanity. Attempt to work with enthusiasm, summon efficiency and organization, ask for assistance (from humans and angels) when needed, eliminate everything not useful and make health and well-being your priority. Along with gathering more knowledge and beauty, which is Libra’s task. Beauty is the hidden path go God.

SAGITTARIUS

Are you paying attention to what your feelings and intuitions are telling you? Are you assessing what signifies peace, safety and security for you? Are you stirring up activities at home, leaving home, seeking home, or needing a home? Did you finally “go” home for some important reason? What are your support systems? Everything that leads to re-organization is going on or will be going on. Family is involved, too. You are their support, their foundation, their scaffold. You are the pillar, like in Masonry, holding up the temple. CAPRICORN

You are feeling hopeful concerning creative endeavors, your family, children, loved ones and intimates and this optimism will continue to grow in promise and potential. At times there is a need to be highly creative to offset too much work. Capricorns are workers, always climbing the ladder. You sometimes dream things so different and unusual, it takes time for them to manifest. When feeling confused, learn to express your feelings in a neutral tone. Ask everyone to listen. Listening is an artform. You can help them learn. Will you be traveling soon? AQUARIUS

Ease in public and social situations may be felt this week. You are seeing a new identity in the world. Tend carefully and with detail to daily life tasks. When you are at ease with yourself a rapport with others develops spontaneously. Walk around the neighborhood, stroll down the middle of town, connect with others, tend to bills and monetary responsibilities, assess your environments, be alert, be gracious and communicative. And realize with gratitude all that you value surrounds you. And all that is around you, loves you. PISCES

Something seems to have come to an end. After long years of work, you sense the need for either stopping You need some ease and some just-for-fun endeavors. You need the work you have been doing, or changing it. I things to be playful, lighthearted, humorous, think you need a long rest. Over time you may good natured and spirited. You also need somerecreate, look and express yourself differently. thing or someone calling forth your creative gifts. Only when creativity is involved are you You always want to present your authentic self. It’s important truly pleased. Always you think of the impact your presence for you to be strong and kind, to seek understanding and and your work have on the world. This allows you to be brave harmony with others and for your actions to be understood and bold and always rebuilding your self-identity, courage and and not misinterpreted. Often you dream your way through life, confidence. You’ll express yourself this week and the next and learning self-confidence through self-realization. Be brave in the next and the next, throughout this entire new spiritual year. these endeavors. ••• SCORPIO

Risa D’Angeles • www.nightlightnews.org • risagoodwill@gmail.com 26 / April 2022 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

We remain steadfastly committed to creating and maintaining a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment at Cabrillo College. Please join me in reaffirming this commitment, and standing in solidarity with members of our LGBTQ+ community. In the paragraphs below I have copied statements from two Cabrillo College Governing Board members: “Acts of violence and intimidation at Cabrillo that target any minoritized community are unacceptable, and the burning of an LGBTQ pride flag on our Watsonville campus is no exception,” said Adam Spickler, Cabrillo Governing Board Member. “As an out LGBTQ elected leader at our college, I know how critical it is we make sure every student, staff and faculty member feels safe at our college. We will act quickly and courageously to ensure Cabrillo stays welcoming and safe for everyone. We will also do what we do best as an outstanding institution of higher education — we will lean into this horrific act as a teachable moment. We will increase opportunities to showcase positive representations of LGBTQ people, history, and events at Cabrillo. We will hold stronger to developing pedagogy that deconstructs bias, demands equity, and celebrates inclusion in our classrooms and across our campuses. We will hold each other up in the face of this single act of hate to remind each other that the love, equity, and justice we collectively fight for far outshines the darkness this incident brings.” Fellow Cabrillo Board Member Steve Trujillo also commented on the incident: “This is a senseless act of vandalism and it does not represent the caring spirit that is so prominent at the Watsonville Center. We reject these acts of hatred and want students to know that Cabrillo is here for you as a safe space and a place of friendship and support.” Trujillo is also gay and in 2019 was recognized by the Santa Cruz Diversity Center Award as a “Community Hero” Award winner. Board President Donna Ziel described the action as “hateful and not representative of the culture and values that Cabrillo College promotes for its students and employees.” “It is my hope that our college response will make it clear that all students are welcome at the college, and that we value the safe and inviting campus culture we create for our community.” In response to this incident I also want to indicate that on Monday morning, March 7, starting at 10:30 am, the College will hold a flag raising ceremony at the Watsonville Center to allow the community to come together for a collective positive response to this incident. The event will feature Board President Donna Ziel, and fellow trustees Adam Spickler, Felipe Hernandez, and Steve Trujillo. All are invited to attend this event in a show of fellowship and support for our LGBTQ students and employees. Yours in solidarity with our community. Matt Wetstein

COMMUNITY NEWS

Grand Jury Seeks Volunteers

Deadline To Apply: 3 p.m. April 29

he Superior Court of Santa Cruz County is seeking volunteers to become members of the Civil Grand

Jury. Applications must be received by 3 p.m. Friday, April 29. The Civil Grand Jury is a historic institution and serves an important role in the community. Serving on the Civil Grand Jury offers county residents a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the local community. The 19 members of the Civil Grand Jury are an independent body empowered to investigate the operations of city and county governments as well as other taxsupported agencies and special districts. They also respond to citizen complaints about government issues. Candidates must be United States citizens, at least 18 years, have a working

knowledge of the English language, and have lived in the county for at least one year. The Superior Court of Santa Cruz County is seeking a volunteer pool that represents the ethnic and cultural diversity of communities within the county. All qualified citizens are invited to apply to the Superior Court for consideration. Two informational meetings via Zoom noon April 19 and 5 p.m. April 21 will provide information about becoming a member of the grand jury. The links will be posted on http://www.santacruzcourt.org/. Or visit the courthouse in Santa Cruz or Watsonville to pick up an application. For questions, email the Superior Court Jury Commissioner’s Office at jury. information@santacruzcourt.org. n

Food and P Fun rizes! Admis sio Free! n

Thursday, April 7 • 4:00-7:00 p.m.

Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds J.J. Crosetti Hall

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / April 2022 / 27

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

ANNOUNCEMENTS

HOUSING FOR HEALTH PARTNERSHIP MEMBERS SOUGHT The former Homeless Action Partnership, Santa Cruz County’s federally-designated continuum of care, has been renamed the Housing for Health Partnership — H4HP for short — and three of the 15 seats on the policy board are open to community members. One seat is reserved for someone with lived experience with homelessness. The new name aligns with the Housing for Health Division, which works under Santa Cruz County’s Human Services Agency and serves as the lead partnership agency. The Policy Board, responsible for high-level planning, decision-making and system oversight, delegates operational responsibilities to operational committees and working groups. The 15 board members represent constituencies with significant experience or resources to address homelessness. Partner members include UCSC Assistant Dean of Students Mariah Lyons, Central California Alliance for Health CEO Stephanie Sonnenshine, and Community Foundation of Santa Cruz CEO Susan True. To apply to be a member or learn more, visit www.housingforhealthpartnership.org.

SENIOR OUTREACH Family Service Agency Senior Outreach offers free one-on-one counseling for people 55 and over via the phone, Skype or Zoom. Counselors are experienced. In-person counseling has been suspended to prevent Covid-19 spread. Groups for men and women will be restarted as soon as possible, with a women’s group starting in February. Dates are not available due to the changing Covid situation. Hopes are to restart peer training, for which there is a waiting list. To express interest in participating, call Barbara Salata, 831459-9351 ext. 206, who will return your call in 24 hours.

SUPPORT FOR MOTHERS OF SURVIVORS Survivors Healing Center is offering online women’s support groups and mothers of survivors of childhood sexual abuse support group. The goals are to empower through a healing process and prevent sexual abuse of children and youth. You are not alone. You are not to blame. More info: (831) 423-7601 or www.survivorshealingcenter.org

Have a virtual or live event you want to promote? Send your information to info@cyber-times.com by April 18 Second Wednesdays: Resume and interview skill workshops at 10 a.m. Third Wednesdays: Resume and interview skill workshops in Spanish, 10 a.m. Hours for English/Spanish bilingual career assistance at the downtown Santa Cruz library began in January. RED CROSS TESTING DONATIONS For a limited time, the American Red Cross has resumed testing all blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies. Plasma from routine donations that have high levels of COVID-19 antibodies may be used as convalescent plasma to meet the needs of COVID-19 patients with weak immune systems. Donors should schedule an appointment. Use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). The Red Cross first tested donations for COVID-19 antibodies earlier in the pandemic to provide convalescent plasma for patients. When infection rates decreased and new treatment options became available, the Red Cross discontinued the program. With the surge of new variants, hospitals began to seek out more treatments for vulnerable patients, and new clinical trial data shows convalescent plasma may benefit immunocompromised patients. Antibody testing will indicate if the donor’s immune system has produced antibodies to this coronavirus following vaccination or infection. Donations will be tested using samples pulled at the time of donation and sent to a testing laboratory where they will undergo routine infectious disease testing. A positive antibody test result does not confirm infection or immunity. COVID-19 antibody test results will be available 1-2 weeks after donation in the Red Cross Blood Donor App or at RedCrossBlood.org. Save up to 15 minutes with a RapidPass answering the health history questionnaire online, on the day of donation, from a mobile device. See instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App. Individuals who are 17 or older, weigh at least 110 pounds and in good health may be eligible to donate blood. Bring a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification.

CAPITOLA LIBRARY ACTIVITIES The Capitola branch library is open seven days a week. HELP FOR LOCAL EMPLOYERS Hours are: A coalition of local governments and nonprofits in Mon-Thurs: 10-6 • Fri-Sat 12-5 Sun 1-5 Santa Cruz County has launched the Behind Every Call: 831.427.7053; text: 831.264.0647; online chat: https:// Employer initiative. www.santacruzpl.org/contact/?display=chat; or send a This is a business resource network for local question at https://www.santacruzpl.org/contact/ employers interested in workforce and other local Homework Help: Tuesday, 3 to 5 p.m. business services. Afterschool STEAM: Wednesday, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Behind Every Employer Santa Cruz County connects Kids age 8 to 28 learn how to survive in the world of businesses needing assistance recruit-ing talent, identifying needed workforce training, consulting about Minecraft.edu. Limited to 18 on a first-come basis. No challenges facing a busi-ness, finding information about advance registration. STEAM Projects: Fridays. 2 to 4 p.m., kids 6 to 11. the local market and locating needed financing. R.E.A.D Reach Every Amazing Detail: Wednesdays Behind Every Employer is a project of Workforce 3- 5 p.m. One-on-one reading Santa Cruz County, the County of Santa Cruz; the cities comprehension instruction for of Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Capitola and Scotts Valley; readers 2nd through 12th grade the Santa Cruz Small Business Development Center and with California credentialed teachers. SesEl Pajaro Community Development Corp. sions last 25 minutes. By appointment only. For info.: https://behindeveryemployer.org/santa-cruz/ Call 831-427-7717 or email pro@santacruzpl.org In-Person Tech Help: Fourth Tuesday, 10 a.m. to noon. PUBLIC LIBRARY CAREER WORKSHOPS Tech-savvy staff will help troubleshoot your issue with a The Santa Cruz Public Libraries presents career development workshops for teens and adults through 25-minute (or less) appointment. Make an appointment: https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/appointments/laselva April, thanks to grant funding. 28 / April 2022 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Appointments are prioritized. Visit information desk or call 831-427-7713 for help making an appointment. Arriving later than 5 minutes after scheduled time may result in cancellation.

The California Highway Patrol Explorer Program allows officers to work with some of the brightest and most professional young men and women. For more information, call the CHP Santa Cruz Area Office at (831) 662-0511 or email Officer Alyssa Gutierrez at alyssa. gutierrez@chp.ca.gov.

‘THIS IS NOW’ TRI-GALLERY EXPOSITION The Santa Cruz Visual Arts Network sponsors a tri-gallery exhibition, “this is now” through April 10, featuring nearly 400 original works of art in all media CALLING ALL ARTISTS from 150+ artists throughout Santa Cruz County. Mid County Senior Center, 829 Bay Ave, Capitola, behind The three galleries, all in Santa Cruz, are: R.Blitzer Woodworm The Mid County Senior Center is looking for artists to be Gallery, 2801 Mission St., formerly Wrigley’s, Tuesdays a part of their May Day sale on May 1. If you are inter- and Thursdays 1-4 p.m., Curated by the Sea, 703 Front St., Tuesday through Saturday 12-4 p.m., and ested in a booth, email Cindy at MCSC4TREASUER@ Radius, 1050 River St. Unit 127, Wednesday through GMAIL. COM for details. Sunday 12-5 Soquel artist Michele Hausman is showing After COMCAST: WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS CAN RISE Harvest (12x16) along with 2 more vineyard paintings Comcast RISE is a multi-year commitment to provide marketing, creative, media, and technology services to at R Blitzer, which will host a closing reception Friday, small businesses owned by people of color and all small April 1, first Friday — no fooling. For an appointment, call Rob at 831-458-1217. businesses owned by women. Comcast is accepting applications for the next phase PROPERTY TAXES DUE SUNDAY APRIL 10 of RISE until June 17. If your business qualifies, you’ll This is the deadline to pay the second installment have the opportunity to receive one or more of these of Santa Cruz County property taxes. Taxes become services: Marketing and advertising consultations, delinquent after this date, adding a 10 percent penalty. media placements over a 90-day period, commercial creative production services, technology services from See https://www.co.santa-cruz.ca.us/Departments/TaxCollector/ GeneralInformationAboutPropertyTaxes/PropertyTaxesThe Effectv and/or Comcast Business. SimpleStory.aspx The work to recover from the devastating impacts of the pandemic is far from over. That’s why Comcast created the Comcast RISE Business Directory at caliONGOING EVENTS fornia.comcast.com/comcastrise. This digital map for laptops and mobile phones presents information about Ongoing Through April 17 ART OF THE AFRICAN DIASPORA local businesses who have benefited from Comcast RISE, making it easy to shop local and shop diverse. Thurs.–Sun., 12-6 p.m., Santa Cruz Museum of Art & Among them is Mountain Salvage in Felton. History, 705 Front St. To review the selection criteria and apply, see https://www. Art of the African Diaspora, in partnership with the comcastrise.com/ Richmond Art Center, supports artists of African descent in the Bay Area through representation, CAREER MONTH AT CABRILLO professional development, and building a creative In April, Cabrillo College will host virtual and in-person community. This year marks the 25th anniversary of this career fairs featuring local employers. Students from exhibition program, and features over 100 artists of Cabrillo and job seekers from the general public are African descent. Artwork is on view at the Richmond invited to attend. Each career fair is 90 minutes. Art Center, as well as in open studios and satellite Dates and times: exhibitions at venues across the Bay Area. April 6: Entrepreneurship & Business and Creative This satellite exhibition is curated for the Santa Arts & Design 3:30-5 p.m. (Virtual) Cruz Museum of Art & History by Santa Cruz artist April 13: In person Career Fair open to all, 10:30 and organizer Abi Mustapha and MAH Historian in a.m.-1 p.m. Residence Luna HighJohn-Bey. April 14: Global & Human Studies, 3:30-5 p.m. Featured artists include Abi Mustapha, Zoe Boston, (Virtual) Tiffany Conway, Carla Golder, Louise Schine, Janet April 20: STEM 3:30-5 p.m. (Virtual) Barnes, Eijah Pfotenhauer and Justice Renaissance. April 28: Health & Public Service, 5:00-6:30 p.m. https://www.santacruzmah.org (Virtual) For questions, contact Courtney Cogan cocogan@cabrillo.edu Tuesdays or Desha Staley-Raatior destaley@cabrillo.edu . CHESS AT THE CAPITOLA LIBRARY CHP RECRUITS EXPLORERS 3:30-4:30 p.m., 2005 Wharf Rd, Capitola The Aptos/Capitola Youth Chess Club is back! Register The California Highway Patrol Santa Cruz Office at https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/8243107 is looking for motivated applicants ages 15 to 21 interested in a career with law enforcement to join the The Chess Club with Gjon continues at the Downtown Santa Cruz Branch Library on Saturdays from 2-3:30 p.m. newly formed Explorer Post. To qualify you must have: SENIOR CENTER BINGO • At least a 2.0 grade-point average, • Good citizenship 1-3 p.m., Mid-County Senior Center, 829 Bay Ave., Capitola • No drug or alcohol use The Mid-County Senior Center is hosting bingo games. • No felony convictions. The event includes coffee and tea; lunch is available CHP Explorers are provided many opportunities to train, for purchase. prepare, and experience the many duties of a CHP officer. The cost is $10 to get started, players must be over Explorers participate in training sessions, ride-alongs with 18 and proof of vaccination is required. Proceeds patrol officers, and community events, and attend Explorer benefit the center and local seniors. competitions locally, regionally, and nationally. For information, call 831-476-4711.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR This Book to Action program is supported by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, administered in California by the State Librarian.

Third Thursday Each Month PET LOSS AND GRIEF SUPPORT VIA ZOOM 6 to 7:30 p.m., virtual meeting BirchBark Foundation’s Pet Loss and Grief Support Zoom group offers a free support group, moderated 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 Sunday Every Month WESTSIDE MARKETPLACE 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Old Wrigley Building Parking Lot, 2801 Mission Street, Santa Cruz Come by on Sundays and shop at over 40 unique & wonderful artists, makers & vintage sellers — there’s something for everyone at the Westside Marketplace! Rain dates are scheduled for the following Sundays. The Market is free to attend and is 100% local! April 3 features Pana, Three Waves Coffee & Aunt LaLi’s, Mattia Pizza and Taquizas Gabriel — along with 40 vendors & live music with Cement Ship. All local and state health guidelines will be followed. Please wear your mask, maintain social distance while you shop and stay home if you don’t feel well. Hand sanitizing stations will be available. For more info, go to the event page: https://www.facebook. com/scmmakersmarket/

DATED EVENTS Friday April 1

FUTURE OF WATSONVILLE HOSPITAL Noon, Online Discussion Join the Aptos Chamber for a virtual lunch meeting via Zoom with State Sen. John Laird, County Administrative Officer Carlos Palacios, and Pajaro Valley Healthcare District CEO Mimi Hall. They will cover the successes and challenges for the Pajaro Valley Healthcare District and its potential effect on county healthcare as a whole. There will be time for questions and community updates. General admission is $15 per person and $10 for chamber members. Reservations are required. Call the Aptos Chamber at (831) 688-1467 with your credit card and email address or send a check and email address to 7605 Old Dominion Court, Aptos CA 95003, or online at aptoschamber.com. A Zoom link will be provided after your reservation. The presentation will be recorded so if this time does not work for you, you can get a link to listen later.

Friday April 1 Saturday April 2 MOANA JR 7 p.m. (2 p.m. Saturday), Monte Vista Christian School, 2 School Way, Watsonville The talented 8th-grade students of Monte Vista Christian School will present “Moana Jr.” at the Don Price Performing Arts Chapel. The community is invited to watch this heartwarming coming-of-age story, which follows the strong-willed Moana as she sets sail across the Pacific to save her village and discover the truth about her heritage. Tickets are $12 at https://www.mvcs.org/eventtickets

Saturday April 2 RECREATIONAL OCEAN SALMON SEASON OPENS California’s recreational salmon fishery will open April 2 in ocean waters from Point Arena (38° 57’ 30” N. lat) south to the U.S./Mexico border, with a minimum size of 24 inches. Anglers are advised to check for updates when planning a salmon fishing trip. Season dates, bag/possession limit

Tuesday April 12 CAPITOLA SOROPTIMIST CLUB MEETING 4 p.m., Michael’s on Main, 2591 Main St., Soquel Soroptimist International of Capitola-by-the-Sea will meet at Michael’s on Main. The meeting is free and open to the public. Club members will hear follow-up reports on the club’s gourmet dinner fundraiser and the Live Your Dream celebration as well as designating members who will attend the region conference in Milpitas in May. Soroptimist International of Capitola-by-the-Sea is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment. For information, see www.best4women.org.

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS CHALLENGE Early Registration is open • Prices increase April 15

The Santa Cruz County Cycling Club presents the 23rd annual Santa Cruz Mountains Challenge road cycling event Saturday, July 23, with the start and finish at the UC Santa Cruz Baskin School of Engineering courtyard. Riders can choose among 4 different routes, the 45-miler with 3,000 feet of climbing, 62 miles with 7,000 feet of climbing, the 100-mile Century route with 10,000 feet of climbing and the Double Metric route (125 miles) featuring 12,500 feet of climbing. Each ride will feature coastal views and gorgeous scenery, delicious food and hydration throughout. Support vehicles and SAG wagons will assist riders. Riders are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Early bird entry fee is $70; for the 45-miler, $55. For details, including routes with ridewithgps, see: http://www.santacruzmountainschallenge.com Proceeds will go towards the grants program, which supports local cycling initiatives. Register at https:// www.bikereg.com/scmc2022 ••• Photos from 2019 challenge • by Tom Pennello

Saturday April 23 Sunday April 24

SPRING DANCE FESTIVAL AT EASTRIDGE CENTER 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Eastridge Center Mall, 2200 Eastridge Loop, San Jose (off Capitol Expressway and Tully Road) The Spring Dance Festival, featuring local dance companies, is presented by sjDANCEco at Eastridge Center Mall,. The event celebrates National Dance Week (April 15-24 and includes free dance classes at 11 a.m., 1, 2 and 5 p.m. both days on the main level of the mall. information and gear restrictions can be found at www. Flying Colors Dance Wednesday April 6 wildlife.ca.gov/oceansalmon or by calling the Ocean & Fitness of Hollister VOLUNTEER VISITORS Q&A Salmon Regulations Hotline at (707) 576-3429. will present a new 12:30 p.m., Online Seminar Public notification of any in-season change to work by choreograPhoto by Steve Bartolomeo conform state regulations to federal regulations is made Join this virtual Q&A via Zoom with Forbes Ellis, director phers Amy Redmond of volunteer services, at Hospice of Santa Cruz County through the National Marine Fisheries Service ocean Waran and Hilary Sharp titled “Villains,” set to music to learn about this volunteer opportunity. salmon hotline at (800) 662-9825. inspired by classic evil-doers: Cruella DeVille, Captain Volunteer Visitors provide companionship to hospice Hook, The Evil Queen from Snow White, and Maleficent patients in their homes or in the care facilities where PERSPECTIVES: CAPITOLA IN THE EYE OF THE on Saturday at 11:30 a.m. they live. As a willing listener, a hand holder, and BEHOLDER RECEPTION Performing Sunday are: DanceCenterBestDanceCrew Noon-2 p.m., Capitola Historical Museum, 410 Capitola Ave. supportive presence, these special volunteers are vital of Ben Lomond, at 11:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Ballet members of the hospice team. “Perspectives: Capitola in the Eye of the Beholder” Rep of Boulder Creek, 11:30 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Shakti Volunteer Visitors may also provide caregivers with exhibit is open at the Capitola Historical Museum. The Bhakti (Classical Indian dance) of Santa Cruz, noon, and much needed respite. Other duties include simple museum is open every Friday through Sunday noon – 4 snack preparation, running errands, and other practical Tannery World Dance & Cultural Center of Santa Cruz, p.m. Entry is free and family-friendly. 2:15 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. All performance times are tasks. The reception will feature the unveiling of a new approximate. painting by Aptos muralist Ann Thiermann. The painting Register at https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAoceChqD0jH- https://www.sjdanceco.org dPp1lT6pOfmlDQhHGHVs1Ch depicts Indigenous people fishing and foraging at what we know today as Capitola Beach and Lagoon. Sunday April 24 Thursday April 7 Ms. Thiermann will speak about her research and method of DINING FOR PARKINSON’S ‘FIGHTING FOR HOUSING’ AUTHOR TO SPEAK creating the piece, which was commissioned by the City of 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Erik’s DeliCafé, 102 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos, 6:30-8 p.m., Online and Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Capitola. Her painting will be part of the 2022 exhibition. 1475 41st Ave, Capitola, and 1664 Soquel Dr, Santa Cruz, downtown branch, 224 Church St, Santa Cruz Erik’s DeliCafé in Aptos, Capitola and Santa Cruz will The Santa Cruz Public Libraries, with the Homeless Tuesday April 5 Garden Project, announce the kickoff for the Book host the second “Dine for a Day” for the Santa Cruz SALLY BAHO TO SPEAK County Parkinson’s Group. to Action program, featuring Conor Dougherty, 1 p.m., Online Meeting Dine in-store, online for delivery, curbside, or pick-up author of “Golden Gates: Fighting for Housing in Retired Teachers Association Division 7 will meet on America,” and Santa Cruz author Jonathan Franzen and part of your purchase will benefit the Santa Cruz Zoom to hear. Sally M. Baho speak on “My Work at the talking about the factors driving homelessness in County Parkinson’s Group, a project of nonprofit EASEPD. Naval Postgraduate School.” During the pandemic, most of the group’s classes America. A Syrian-Californian writer and bon vivant, she and meetings needed to pivot quickly to Zoom. Thanks In-person attendees will be able to write works fulltime at the Naval Postgraduate School as a questions for the authors. The event is free and to donations and efforts of the all-volunteer group, research associate and associate editor of the journal, registration is required via Eventbrite: https://bit.ly/ most classes and support programs continued and Combatting Terrorism Exchange. In her free time she membership grew. housingconv loves to be outdoors, read, travel, and enjoy life on The Parkinson’s Foundation provides a free Hospital Through the Book to Action project, Santa Cruz the Monterey Bay. She is working on a novel. See her Public Libraries is providing copies of “Golden Safety Kit to protect, prepare, and empower people with website www.sallybaho.com Gates: Fighting for Housing in America” to in-person Parkinson’s while hospitalized. Contact Mary Dixon at mary@baymoon.com for the Zoom link. attendees free of charge while supplies last. Order at https://www.parkinson.org or call: 800-473-4636. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / April 2022 / 29

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Rezoning Proposed to Meet Housing Goals Biggest Change in County General Plan in 25 Years

By Manu Koenig, Supervisor, First District

he draft Santa Cruz County Sustainability Update has been released for public review. This update is the biggest change to the County’s General Plan in over 25 years. It proposes new zoning tools and design guidelines that would allow us to meet our housing and sustainability goals over the coming decades. The Update primarily focuses on the more urban parts of the county, such as Live Oak, Soquel, and Aptos. It includes rezoning along Portola Drive as well as at Soquel Drive and Thurber Lane. On Portola, the rezoning would allow housing developments on existing auto repair and wrecking yards. The lot at Thurber Lane & Soquel Drive would create the opportunity for a mixed-use community center. Visit the project website at https:// sustainability-update-sccgis.opendata. arcgis.com/ to view the draft document and the schedule for upcoming community meetings. An introductory meeting was held in March, and a recording is

available at: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=x6sYSHL26-U. Each of the upcoming community meetings will go into depth about different areas of the plan, including Transportation (April 5), Agriculture, Environmental Resources, and Public Facilities (April 12), and Code Modernization and Map Amendments (April 20). Another great way to understand what’s included in the Sustainability Update and provide feedback is to take the survey: https://survey123.arcgis.com/sha re/23f5a28279e241abbec66d8d42e6770b. Public hearings at the Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors will not start until this summer and will continue into the fall. So, there’s plenty of time to get involved! Portola Drive Resurfacing ortola Drive is one of our County’s most traveled roads, and is due for some TLC. This summer, Portola Drive will receive preventative maintenance and resurfacing, with a new cape seal applied between 26th and 41st avenues. Based on feedback from last year’s Portola Pop-Up Project, four lanes of vehicle travel will remain and green striping will be added to existing bike lanes. To view the draft plan, visit https:// santa-cruz.us7.list-manage. com/track/click?u=d71147f b8c549c51b6a9a80e5&id=f4 d231c8f4&e=a385f2c3d8. Following last year’s pop-up project, several constituents requested the permanent installation of a stop sign at 36th and Portola. Our office requested this be

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Local Local Local

evaluated, and transportation consultant Kimley Horn performed the analysis. They found that a stop sign at 36th Avenue is not warranted because there is insufficient traffic turning onto Portola from 36th Avenue and there have been no collisions at the intersection in the last year. To read the full report, visit https://santa-cruz.us7. list-manage.com/track/click?u=d71147fb8 c549c51b6a9a80e5&id=450c9bd674&e=a38 5f2c3d8. Together with the Community Development and Infrastructure department (formerly the Department of Public Works), our office hosted a virtual community meeting March 29 to discuss the project. To view a recording, visit the First District

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webpage: https://www.co.santa-cruz. ca.us/Government/BoardofSupervisors/ District1.aspx Community Meetings n 2022, we are hosting monthly in-person hybrid meetings at rotating locations throughout the First District on the second Thursday of every month. Upcoming meetings include: Happy Valley Town Hall Thursday, April 14: 6-7:30 p.m. Hybrid meeting: In person at Happy Valley Elementary, 3125 Branciforte Drive, Santa Cruz, or virtual at https://zoom. us/j/96708318897

“Housing Goals” page 31

SCCAS Featured Pet

Girls Trip!

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ook at all these chickens! Helen, Ruth, Greta, Frances, Jean, Peggy, Cheryl, Doris, Elaine, Cynthia, Marie, Lois, and Gail have been at our shelter for quite some time and are looking for their forever homes. Whether you’re looking for some livestock or some farm fresh eggs straight from your yard the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter has some ready to be adopted. If you’re in the market for some chickens — adopt, don’t shop! 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

COMMUNITY NEWS

March 31 Deadline to Apply for Pandemic Rent Relief O n March 22, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved additional eviction protections for residents in the unincorporated areas facing pandemic-related housing issues. With a state program set to expire March 31 that directs landlords and tenants into a COVID-19 Rent Relief program prior to filing court action, the board authorized up to $500,000 for housing-related community resources, potentially including legal assistance and mediation, flexible financial assistance, tenant rights education and counseling, or housing-related problem-solving and case management services. Tenants are encouraged to apply for the COVID-19 Rent Relief program at HousingIsKey.com as soon as possible. The deadline is March 31. The Self-Help Center of Santa Cruz County Superior Court is a valuable resource for tenants and landlords facing potential legal issues. Additional

“Housing Goals” from page 30 Prospect Heights Neighborhood Town Hall Thursday, May 12: 6-7:30 p.m. Hybrid meeting: In person at DeLaveaga Elementary School, 1145 Morrissey Blvd., Santa Cruz, or virtual - https://zoom. us/j/96708318897 Want to speak to us sooner? We invite you to give us a call at (831) 454-2200 or

The Self-Help Center of Santa Cruz County Superior Court is a valuable resource for tenants and landlords facing potential legal issues.

protections are afforded under the 2019 Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482), which requires “just cause” evictions and limits annual rent increases. Local evictions remain extraordinarily low, with only 23 cases filed during the first two months of 2022. Landlords with past due rent owed are also encouraged to apply for COVID-19 Rent Relief funding through the Housing Is Key program rather than pursue potentially costly litigation and a lengthy collection process. Thus far, nearly $16 million has been paid to local landlords for rent owed due to pandemic-related job or income losses, with an average award exceeding $10,000. n

email us at first.district@santacruzcounty. us. Supervisor Koenig also hosts monthly office hours at the Sheriff’s Center in Live Oak on the first Wednesday of every month, from 1-3 p.m. The Sheriff’s Center is at 5200 Soquel Ave, and the First District office is on the first floor, directly to the left after entering the main entrance. n ••• Manu Koenig is First District County Supervisor.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / April 2022 / 31

New Listing INDESCRIBABLE OCEAN VIEWS 685 SKYWARD DRIVE

5 bed 4.5 baths 5,079 sqft 2.9 acres $3,850,000

Welcome to 685 Skyward, where breathtaking views and alluring architecture meet custom interior features, spectacular gardens and stunning sunsets. Floor plan provides room for everyone with formal entry, separate living room, dining room and open concept kitchenfamily room design. Main living space offers the perfect backdrop to entertain with expansive views of the blue Pacific, while the fantastic indoor - outdoor flow creates California living at its finest. Four spacious bedrooms, including primary suite with spa inspired bath and walkin closet. Fifth bedroom presents as its own separate living space with private deck, fireplace, walk-in closet, steam shower and more. Use this large, private space as an in-law suite, office, art studio, the possibilities are endless. With unobstructed ocean views from almost every room, a premier location and a passive monthly income of over $5k/month, this exquisite home brings the best of Aptos to you.

AMBER MELENUDO REALTOR® 831.566.2263 AmberMelenudo.com ambermelenudo@gmail.com DRE 01921098

Capitola Soquel Times: April 2022

Articles inside

Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28

Report Card Notes: Roy Segura Retiring, By Scott J. Turnbull, Superin

March 31 Deadline to Apply for Pandemic Rent Relief

EarthDay.Org Calls for a Global Plastics Treaty

More Signs of Normalcy As Omicron Cases Fade, By Jondi Gumz

Cal Fire CZU Chief Welcomes Volunteers, By Jondi Gumz

Russia Invades Ukraine; Record Gas Prices, $400 Rebate?, By Jondi Gumz

Second Harvest Holiday Drive: More than 5 Million Meals

The First People of Capitola, By Deborah Osterberg

Boys & Girls Club Chief Bob Langseth to Retire

Mayor Proclaims March 15 Equal Pay Day

Fundraising Goal Met for New Clinics at 1500 Capitola Road: Fed Government to Fund $1M for Dental Equipment