Capitola Soquel Times: November 2023

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November 2023 • Vol 28 No. 11

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Beach Festival Delights

Despite the chaos of the last year, the Capitola Beach Festival provided visitors to the Village with sunshine, smiles and enjoyment, over several exciting venues, resulting in a refreshing end-of-summer celebration.

Full Story page 5

Happy 80th JoJo!

Treasure Cove at Jade Street Park

The City of Capitola announces a community event to celebrate the 80th birthday of a long-time Capitola local, fisherman JoJo Urbancic.

Full Story page 4

Foundation Offers to Match up to $250,000

County Park Friends — working to raise $1 million of the anticipated $1.79 million cost for the City of Capitola’s universally accessible playground at Jade Street Park — has good news to share.

“In the three months since launching this campaign, County Park Friends has raised $105,000 in donations and pledge,” said Mariah Roberts, executive director, County Park Friends. ... continues on page 4

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No. 11

Volume 28

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Table of Contents

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HAPPINESS HAPPENS HERE.

Cover Treasure Cove at Jade Street Park: Foundation Offers to Match up to $250,000

4 5 7 10 13 15 16 17 20 22

Community News Happy 80th JoJo Urbancic!: Celebration of Capitola Local Octogenarian is Nov. 6 Beach Festival Delights, By Laurie Hill Bay Federal Credit Union: $6,700 for Sanctuary Foundation • Jobs in Santa Cruz County • Thanksgiving Meal Women in Jail: Changing Lives, By Jondi Gumz Oktoberfest for Wharf Enhancement, Photos by Gerry Jensen Operation Christmas Child Pitch In Santa Cruz County Capitola Community Center Renovation Comments Due Dec. 15 on Rail Trail EIR: Project Requires Cutting 804 Trees in Aptos, Capitola & Live Oak My Ukrainian Daughter: Nancy Cooper Shares Tragedy and Triumph of Sister City Family, By Jondi Gumz

California News 9 Caltrans: $80 Million for Hydrogen Trains 21 AB 418: Chemicals in Food Banned in 2027, By Jondi Gumz 31 AB 1386: Tenant Referrals for Veterans Local Sports 12 Top Runners at Mitty

VISIT US TODAY!

Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – Scorpio Sun & Mercury – Eclipse Effects, By Risa D’Angeles Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29 Featured Columnists 6 Over the Roof, By Joe Ortiz 11 $1 Million for Community Center!, By Margaux Keiser, Mayor, City of Capitola 14 Top Young Scientist Invents Soap to Fight Skin Cancer 18 Autumn Color Appreciates Chill, By Tony Tomeo 23 Cruises & Airline Tickets: Don’t Make These Mistakes!, By Christopher Elliott 25 Soquel Creek Water District’s Season of Gratitude, By Rebecca Gold Rubin 30 Exploring Microenterprise Home Kitchens, By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District

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COMMUNITY NEWS

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Happy 80th JoJo Urbancic!

Celebration of Capitola Local Octogenarian is Nov. 6

T

he City of Capitola announces a community event 4-7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 6, at Esplanade Park in Capitola Village to celebrate the 80th birthday of a long-time Capitola local, fisherman JoJo Urbancic.

This event, planned by City of Capitola staff and community members, will kick off with JoJo making his grand entrance to Capitola Village. Cake, light refreshments, and speeches will follow, with live music by one of JoJo’s favorite local bands, the Digbeats.

There will be fun for all ages and the entire community is encouraged to attend.

JoJo was born in San Francisco on Nov. 6, 1943. His family began to take trips to the City of Capitola in the early 1950s, where they spent many summers. After graduating from high school in 1961, JoJo decided it was time to move to his beloved City of Capitola.

JoJo spent his early years in Capitola with very little, sleeping under boats “here and there” and spending lots of time fishing on the Capitola Wharf. It did not take long for JoJo to create life-long friendships and be recognized by the community of Capitola for his free spirit and kind soul.

COVER STORY “Treasure Cove” from page 1 Roberts continued: “We are pleased to announce we have just received a $250,000 challenge grant from the Monterey Peninsula Foundation. This means every dollar raised for Treasure Cove will be

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Late in the summer of 1961, JoJo became a permanent resident of Capitola, thanks to many gracious community members.

JoJo spent the next several decades on the Capitola Wharf teaching generations how to fish and being a bright light to members of the community.

In his 70s, JoJo still fishes, though he temporarily relocated to the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf following the January 2024 storm that cut off access to the Capitola Wharf.

JoJo is still extremely active in the

Capitola community and can often be found spending time in Capitola Village.

He’s not a shy person and he enjoys making people happy.

He’s helped a lot of people fishing on wharf and he’s an expert at cutting up fish. He’s helped string Christmas lights in Capitola Village, and he’s played Santa Claus for Uncle Nathan’s Day at the Capitola Mercantile. He’s been a regular volunteer for the Capitola Art & Wine Festival. And he knows how to run the Merry-Go-Round, which went from the Esplanade to Casa de Fruta and then the Red Barn flea market in Aromas.

The City of Capitola is honored to host the 80th birthday celebration for JoJo Urbancic and invites community members to join in the fun on Nov. 6.

To learn more about Jo Jo, see the video interview by Niels Kisling for the Capitola Historical Museum at https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=r69QCkZb9n4 If you have any questions regarding logistics or sponsorship of this event, contact the Capitola Recreation Division and follow all City accounts on Facebook and Instagram. n

matched by the foundation up to a quarter of a million dollars.”

The City of Capitola’s contribution is $790,000.

County Park Friends invited the community to attend the Treasure Cove Design Reveal and Adaptive Family Fall Festival

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2-4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28, at the Capitola Community Center, 4400 Jade St. On Sept. 28, the Capitola City Council chose the name “Treasure Cove at Jade Street Park” for the playground after a panel recommended three names from more than 70 submitted by community members.

Festival attendees saw conceptual designs of the Treasure Cove playground.

At the festival, Capitola-Aptos Rotary, Cabrillo Host and Freedom Lions, SPIN, SARC, Live Like Coco, Aptos Community Youth Group, and the Young Leaders of County Park Friends provided adaptive family activities such as interactive games, arts and crafts, and a book giveaway. These activities were specifically planned so all children, including children with disabilities, could participate. n ••• For more information about this event, visit countyparkfriends.org/jadestpark.

Beach Festival Delights

D

COMMUNITY NEWS

By Laurie Hill

espite the chaos of the last year, the Capitola Beach Festival provided visitors to the Village with sunshine, smiles and enjoyment, over several exciting venues, resulting in a refreshing end-of-summer celebration.

After a winter that flooded the streets of our village, nearly 3,000 runners filled the Esplanade for the Lil Wharf foot race.

Nature returned the sand to our

Sand Castle, 2023 Grand Prize

“The Aqua Princess” rocky beach — just in time with an original song prefor the sand sculpture sented by Cork and Fork contest, horseshoes and received the first-place corn hole tournaments, honors, followed closely and barefoot romps in the by the Jewel Boxers’ surf. technically superb Days after the “Spirit of Capitola “ and groundbreaking certhe Capitola History emony for repairs to Museum’s “Hotel CapCapitola Wharf, the FesSpun itola” depicting the 1920s tival’s very first Paddle Board Race was launched landmark with guests in period beach from Hoopers Beach and garb. The parade’s five enthusiastic float headed out and around teams delighted the crowds and chalthe damaged wharf. lenged the judges.

The rowboat races returned to Soquel The traditional Festival Fishing Derby is antici- Creek after creek conditions canceled pated for next year after them in 2022.

Live music in Esplanade Park, Chalk repairs to the wharf.

The welcoming magic Art on the seawall, Children’s Art, and a of the Lighted Nautical Scavenger Hunt balanced out the busy Parade returned to Soquel weekend.

The Capitola Beach Festival ComCreek — after creek conditions in 2022 forced a mittee helped push the “refresh” button static “beached parade” this year — join the effort and help us reboot for 2024. n on the sandy beach.

Cork and Fork: The Aqua Princess, 1st place

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Previous episode: Freddie the bookie had camped out in our apartment taking bets, but he told Mom that Dad still owed him, so Dad fled to California.

••• om wasn’t letting on how bad it felt with Dad gone. But when she got a letter saying he had rented a house for us, Mom also found three airline tickets for a flight from LaGuardia to Los Angeles, California. Yet, our fear still remained: how would we get away from Freddie?

Every time Laura and I turned around, he was there—on our way to school, on our way home. Most mornings we’d see him down on the bench, reading the Racing Form. Or he’d jump out from under the stairwell and shout, “Where’s Herman, kids? Whatdaya know about ya fatha?”

Laura would just shove me so I’d keep walking—neither of us saying a word.

Could we escape without Freddie seeing us? Should we start going over the roof too?

Mom finally admitted it might be the only answer. But what about our furniture?

Sure enough, Mrs. DeAngelo had a plan.

She had studied the movements made by every neighbor, bill collector, and relative alike. And the “over the roof routine?” If someone went in but didn’t come out, she’d say “they must have gone ova the pass.”

That evening, half a dozen neighbors sat around the table drinking red wine, eating toasted bread rusks soaked in

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Anisette and popping Lupini (see recipes).

They all spoke at once in a cacophony: “I’ll move the lamps if you get the rugs.”

“It’ll take four of us to get the sofa, two for the Victrola.” “I know a Goodwill in New Jersey.”

But to this day, I’m not sure if I’d only heard them fantasizing about what they wished they could do, or if I had done some serious fantasizing of my own. When Laura was still alive, I had often told her about the stories I thought I had fabricated to make sense out of the chaos. But she’d often say “No, Joey, you didn’t make it up.

That’s what really happened.” Or maybe I’ve told myself this scenario so often I’ve come to believe it as true.

On Nov. 5, the day our plane was to leave for California, neighbors started arriving early.

“Joe Ortiz” page 8

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Bay Federal Credit Thanksgiving Meal Union: $6,700 for T Sanctuary Foundation B ay Federal Credit Union raised $6,735 for the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Foundation during an eStatement campaign promoting electronic statements and environmental protection.

Bay Federal ran similar campaigns in 2021 and 2022, which generated $20,360 for the Foundation, totaling $27,095 in donations over three years.

In August, 1,347 credit union members made the switch from paper to eStatements.

The incentives? An opportunity to protect our environment, the chance to win cash prizes, and a $5 donation to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Foundation on behalf of every member who opted in.

The cash prizes: $1,000 grand prize, $500 for second-place, and $100 for five runners-up.

“We are deeply grateful to Bay Federal Credit Union for their remarkable commitment to both our environment and our community,” said Ginaia Kelly, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Foundation chapter director. “Their e-statement campaign not only demonstrates their dedication to reducing our carbon footprint but also their unwavering support of sanctuary programs. Together, we are creating a sustainable legacy that will benefit generations to come.”

The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Foundation is the local nonprofit partner for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, a national treasure with unique and abundant biodiversity. n

he Veterans for Peace and the Friends of Thanksgiving announce the Santa Cruz Community Thanksgiving Dinner will once again be hosted at the Veterans Memorial Building, 846 Front St., Santa Cruz, from 11am to 3pm Thanksgiving Day, Thursday Nov. 23.

Everyone is invited to attend and enjoy a traditional meal of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and all the trimmings prepared by local chefs.

The hall will once again be decorated by local Girl Scouts and music will be provided by local artists. Join us for a day of true community as we eat, share stories and experiences and celebrate the holiday spirit.

Your generous donation will help turn a time of want and need into a celebration of joy and generosity. n ••• To donate, visit: https://gofund.me/af57f069

Jobs in Santa Cruz County

Sector Sept. 2023

Private education 19,000 & health Leisure/hospitality 14,800 Other 5,400 Government 18,500 Professional/business 11,000 services Construction 5,200 Financial 3,200 Information 500 Manufacturing 8,100 Trade/transportation/ 16,500 utilities Nonfarm 102,200 Farm 9,500 Total 111,700

Change from Sept. 2022 Up 1,100 Up 600 Up 200 Up 100 Up 100

0 0 Down 100 Down 100 Down 100 Up 1,800 Down 300 Up 1,500

~~~ Labor force 135,600 Down .2% Employment* 129,400 Down 1.4% Unemployment 6,100 Down 30% Unemployment rate 4.5% 3.5% Count is on the 12th of the month *Includes commuters out of the county Source: California Employment Development Department ••• nemployment in Santa Cruz County rose from 3.5% in August to 4.5% in September.

Unemployment remains low, compared to 17+% in 2020, fueled by pandemic restrictions.

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“Jobs” page 9

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2023 / 7

“Joe Ortiz” from page 6 As usual, Mrs. DeAngelo sat watch at her kitchen window and would let us know when Freddie showed up, and yell the code when Freddie entered the building.

Twenty or thirty neighbors formed a line from the front door of our apartment, stretching up the stairs, over the roof and down the stairway of the next building.

Then it started. First the lamps; then the rugs. All the pictures from the walls, handed one-by-one, down the line and out. Each and every piece of furniture was carried up, over and down again, and onto a waiting truck where it would be taken to Jersey and sold at auction.

Cousin Johnny had already made a deal, which he’d handle and send us the money.

When Freddie showed up at around noon, Mrs. DeAngelo shouted out the first warning.

“I’m making pasta fagioli tonight, Annie,” Mrs. DeAngelo said.

Mom understood what she meant: only when Ma heard Mrs. DeAngelo pronounced it Fazoo, would she know that Freddie would be entering the building.

When Mrs. DeAngelo said “fagioli” in her sing-song voice, Freddie must have looked up and snarled at how she pronounced it.

But he must have been distracted, because Mom stood at the window and waved to give us cover. Our suitcases were packed, so we stood by and waited. Meanwhile, Aunt Rose told us that Uncle Frank had parked his Oldsmobile around the block with the motor running to drive us to the airport.

When Mom left the window and told someone to leave the curtains up, Mrs. DeAngelo leaned out her window and said, “PASTA FAZOO,” knowing that when Freddie lit a cigarette, he’d soon be coming up. So we grabbed our luggage and headed left down the stairs, when Ma stopped us and said, “NO! The other way.

We’re going over the roof.”

As we trudged up the stairs, Mom

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looked back and started to cry as our furniture passed us on the landing. Mom touched everything as it went by—the sewing machine, the red Formica table, the chairs, the wringer washing machine.

Laura tried to nudge Mama, but Mama had to have one last feel.

Eventually, everything was out of the apartment—everything except Mom’s curtains and the bars on the kitchen window, just so Freddie didn’t get suspicious.

Laura finally got Mom to move, and we made it to the car and drove off toward the airport.

We heard later that the neighbors hung out their kitchen windows and sighed every time Freddie moved, wondering if he was heading up to find Herman. Finally, Mrs. DeAngelo couldn’t hold it anymore.

Knowing we were gone, she exploded.

“Freddie, something’s going on up there.”

Freddie put out his cigarette, ran up the stairs, pushed open the door and found the apartment empty. He must have stalked every room. Neighbors told us later, he let out a scream so loud that his voice echoed through the building, out the window and through the blood-red canyons of the Queensborough Projects.

Like everything else that ever got noticed, questioned, or analyzed through our neighbors’ kitchen windows, everyone knew we had escaped.

Freddie ran out screaming in his Sicilian dialect. No one ever saw Freddie again. At least no one in our old neighborhood.

On the way to the airport, my mother stopped at a Jewish haberdashery on Queens Boulevard, and bought me a gray full-length, wool overcoat and matching hat with flip down earmuffs. She said she didn’t want me to catch cold.

When we got off of the plane in Los Angeles, the sun was blazing hot, the temperature 105 degrees, and I must have looked like an Eskimo: a little Puerto Rican-Italian Eskimo wearing a gray wool overcoat who, with his mother and sister,

Joe Ortiz Memoir: Episodes & Recipes

oe Ortiz’s memoir, Pastina — My Father’s Misfortune, My Mother’s Good Soup, became the framework for the musical Escaping Queens, which ran at Cabrillo Stage in 2012 and 2013.

Since 2022, the Capitola Soquel Times is the exclusive publication of various episodes from the book — including a recipe that helps shape each installment. You may have read one of the pieces in the Times a few months ago entitled, “Pastina, Food for the Soul — The Night Freddie the Bookie Showed Up with the Gun.”

The idea of weaving anecdotes about food with an ongoing narrative came to Joe after reading Heartburn by Nora Ephron.

“Using recipe descriptions to help tell a story seemed the perfect way to weave the angst of a father’s chaotic life with the salvation of a mother’s cooking,” Ortiz explains. “For me, the soothing aromas and descriptions of my mom’s food became the salve to assuage my father’s abusive actions, and the ironic humor of it all helped to dull the pain.” n

8 / November 2023 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

had escaped from Queens to the bright, blaring sunshine of Southern California.

••• Anisette Rusks s other immigrant ethnicities often did, peasant Italians were habitually coming up with recipes to make use of leftover ingredients. These bread rusks were made with day-old Italian bread and Anisette, an anise-flavored liqueur, which is also great for sipping. Crispy and sweet, these rusks can be eaten alone as an appetizer with a glass of wine. Or you can try them for dessert as a base for a scoop of ice cream or as a foil for a slice of prosciutto and a wedge of cantaloupe.

1 loaf day-old francese bread (or a one-pound French or Italian baguette) 12 ounces Anisette liqueur Slice the francese loaf into 16 slices, each ¾ inch thick, on an angle so you end up with 16 oval shapes measuring roughly 6” by 2”. If the bread is fresh, place the slices on two 12” by 18” baking trays and place in an oven with the pilot light on for 10 to 15 minutes, until they are dried out a bit.

Preheat the oven to 225 degrees Using the same two baking trays, pour 4 shots (1 ½ ounce jiggers) of Anisette liqueur in each tray. Place the slices, 8 to a tray, and press them into the Anisette, then flip the pieces over and repeat. Do this flipping and pressing maneuver several times in order to soak the bread as best as possible into all of the liqueur.

Bake the rusks for 1 hour 15 minutes, turning the slices over two or three times during the baking time. Remove them when just crisp, and if some are still soft,

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place those back in the oven for another 5 or 10 minutes. Allow to cool before serving.

They can be stored for up to two weeks in an airtight plastic container.

••• Lupine Styled Fava Beans hen Italian peasant farm families migrated to the New World, they brought their habit of preserving along with them on the journey. If you grew tomatoes and green beans and couldn’t eat them quickly enough, you would make sauce or pickled vegetables for the pantry.

This Lupine recipe uses fava beans instead of Lupine beans because it’s what they had on hand.

1 ½ pounds fava beans in their pods (equals 1 ½ cup raw beans after removing from pods) 1 medium garlic clove, peeled and smashed with the side of a knife 1 cup distilled water 1 teaspoon salt ½ cup pickle juice ¼ cup white wine vinegar Shell the favas from their pods, leaving the tough outer skin intact. Place the garlic, water, salt, pickle juice, and vinegar in a small saucepan and heat until it boils.

Allow to cool 15 minutes. Place the beans into two separate 1 ¾ cup Mason jars and pour half of the brine solution over each.

Cover jars with lids and let sit at room temperature a few hours, until cool.

Place the jars in the refrigerator for 2 days and taste for desired favor. To eat, bite off the end of each bean and squeeze the inner part into your mouth.

Enjoy. n

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CALIFORNIA NEWS

Caltrans: $80 Million for Hydrogen Trains O n Oct. 12, Caltrans signed an $80 million contract with Stadler Rail, Inc. of Bussnang, Switzerland, to deliver zero-emission hydrogen passenger trains.

The contract includes a base order of $80 million for the first four trainsets between Merced and Sacramento with options for up to 25 additional trainsets that can be used throughout California.

Trains are to be delivered in early 2027.

While the base order of trains is expected to operate between Merced and Sacramento and Merced and Bakersfield, Caltrans said the trains also will be demonstrated on corridors throughout the state in coordination with regional rail partners.

The purchase is funded through Gov. Gavin Newsom’s $10 billion, multiyear zero-emission vehicle package, which included $407 million for the California State Transportation Agency to

“Jobs” from page 7 Private education/health is up 1,000 compared to a year ago as UC Santa Cruz resumes fall classes for its growing enrollment.

Seacliff Inn is seeking a front office manager, paying $67,000 to $77,000, and recruiting restaurant servers and a parttime night auditor.

Cabrillo College is seeking a part-time

demonstrate and purchase or lease stateof-the-art clean bus and rail equipment and infrastructure.

Martin Ritter, CEO Stadler US, based in Salt Lake City, said, “It is great to be part of California’s move toward eco-friendly travel with another zeroemission project in the state.”

The vehicles will be based on Stadler’s Fast Light Intercity and Regional Train (FLIRT) developed for the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority, which was unveiled this month at an expo in Orlando.

This hydrogen powered passenger train — no locomotive needed — is to be launched as part of Metrolink service from Redlands to San Bernardino in late 2024.

California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin described California’s order as “state-of-the-art hydrogen train sets.”

Caltrans Director Tony Tavares

Officials sign $80 million contract for first zero-emission, hydrogen intercity passenger trains in North America. added, “California is using our transportation dollars to fund innovation solutions like these zero-emission, hydrogen passenger trains to significantly reduce planet-warming pollution and combat and adapt to climate change — while providing travelers an alternative to driving.”

Newsom is betting big on zeroemission transportation, investing more than $1 billion in the past few months.

In July, he announced $450 million for zero-emission infrastructure, locomotives, vessels and vehicles. In April, he announced $690 million to buy 277 zeroemission vehicles statewide and develop high-priority mobility hubs and rail projects.

Alstom, based in Germany, pioneered the Coradia iLint™ which it says it the world’s first passenger train powered by a hydrogen fuel cell. In operation, this train emits no carbon dioxide and exhausts only water, the company says.

The train is operating in Germany and Austria and ran on a demonstration basis carrying 10,000 passengers from June to September from Quebec City to Baie-Saint-Paul.

Since 2015, Alstom Power & Grid have been owned by GE, which is headquartered in Boston.

Caltrans spokesman Ed Barrera pointed out this is California’s first purchase — it is not a test, as in Canada. n

Mexican mariachi and banda instructor, paying $1,599 to $2,454 per month.

Bay Federal Credit Union is seeking a full-time teller, paying $20-$21 per hour.

New Leaf Community Market is recruiting a full-time deli specialist, paying $17.65 to $22.55 per hour.

A job search on indeed.com finds 20,000 jobs within 35 miles of Capitola, 339 being remote jobs and 397 hybrid jobs. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2023 / 9

COMMUNITY NEWS

Women in Jail: Changing Lives

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By Jondi Gumz

2017 report found most of the women in the Santa Cruz County jail were repeat offenders — all but one woman interviewed had been booked into jail at least once before, and as many as 37 times, with 84% addicted to drugs or alcohol.

On Dec. 14, 2016, the average length of stay for all the women in custody was 37 days — not much time to turn your life around.

Once in the criminal justice system, they are more likely than not to return, over and over. With no place to go once released, it is common for people to resort to old social networks and coping behaviors, typically feeding their addictions and ultimately leading back to jail.

The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office got a state grant in 2018 to make changes, but had “a rocky start,” according to Kristie Clemens, inmate program manager.

Staffing to run the program was inconsistent and at one point, Santa Cruz County program leaders wanted to give the money back to the state, unsure they could do what they had promised.

State officials said no, so Santa Cruz County kept trying, and they got another grant in 2021 to keep going.

The results: 51% of the incarcerated women participated in the program while in custody before transitioning to community services.

“We feel really good about that,” Clemens said.

So do officials at the U.S. Department of Justice, which recognized the Santa Cruz County Women’s Recovery and Reentry Program as a national model for other communities.

On Monday, about two dozen people

Key to success is working with community partners, Gemma House, a 6-bed drug rehab facility that is part of the nonprofit Encompass, and Friends Outside, a program of the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County in which volunteers support women to make change.

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Visitors from Nevada, Washington, Idaho, Missouri, Kansas, Louisiana, Wisconsin, Connecticut, and Vermont, and locals working with incarcerated women line up for a photo at a 2-day training offered by the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office. from agencies in nine states came to find out what is working in Santa Cruz County.

The program reached 63 of the 100 women targeted for services; the average length of programming was 90 days.

Key to success is working with community partners, Gemma House, a 6-bed drug rehab facility that is part of the nonprofit Encompass, and Friends Outside, a program of the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County in which volunteers support women to make change.

Gemma House was home to 25 women, and 22 women had support from Friends Outside.

At Gemma House, children are not allowed but Friends Outside supports mothers wherever they live.

This funding cycle, five women completed the in-custody program and nine completed community services programming.

The program includes urinalysis and medication-assisted treatment (the U.S.

10 / November 2023 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Food and Drug Administration allows buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone to treat dependence on opioids and 25% took advantage.

Participants must have stable mental health and be motivated to change.

They must spend 10 hours a week in coursework — culinary and computer classes at Cabrillo college count — personal development — poetry and Triple P parenting classes count — and case management.

They must take 24 sessions of substance use disorder curriculum and six sessions of healing trauma, both with Friends Outside, and 12 sessions of dialectical behavior therapy to bring about lasting change, with nonprofit addiction treatment provider Janus of Santa Cruz.

“The Four Agreements,” a book by Don Miguel Ruiz to change your life, comes into play. Number 3: Don’t take anything personally.

Participants also create a relapse prevention plan.

Kelly Joyce, Gemma program coordinator, said there is no charge to stay at Gemma House but participants must work 25 hours a week or go to school, and 60% of their income must go into saving for the future.

Katie Anaya of Friends Outside can help a participant pay fees or fines at Cabrillo College or provide gift cards to stores or to get a haircut.

Santa Cruz County has a 32-bed minimum-security facility for women on Blaine Street, a dorm-style residence that is more suited for the re-entry program than the Main Jail.

However, due to staffing shortages — 10 of 94 authorized corrections positions unfilled — the Sheriff’s Office closed Blaine Street in September 2021. It reopened in May to accommodate an electronic upgrade at the Main Jail that may take a year to complete. n ••• The 2017 report Gender Matters is at https://tinyurl.com/women-in-jail-SC2017.

FEATURED COLUMNIST

$1 Million for Community Center!

W

hile the Capitola Wharf re-build has been in the forefront of our City’s projects, we have lots of other big time advancements for Capitola.

On Wednesday, Oct. 25, Assembly Member Dawn Addis joined staff & myself at the Community Center to present us with a $1 million grant check to address the most time-sensitive and structural project needs.

The Community Center is an important, integral part of our community and is a great collaboration with the Soquel Union Elementary School District.

We are so grateful for the Assemblywoman’s help in securing this state funding and for our hard-working Public Works management to help get these major upgrades started.

This project comes along perfectly with the timing of Treasure Cove at Jade Street Park. The main focus of Treasure Cove is to create a Universally Accessible Play area for all to enjoy.

The Community Center upgrade

By Margaux Keiser, Mayor, City of Capitola

projects are also focusing a lot on safety and accessibility, making these great parallel projects!

Another major project that came to light after the January storms was the Cliff Drive resiliency.

Last Council meeting we authorized the city manager to enter into a professional services agreement for planning, permitting and design in the amount of $1,193,700.

Cliff Drive is a major arterial road for our City and acts as a primary evacuation route. During the storms, there was major damage to the bluff & riprap.

The City wants to be sure to mitigate any further damage to this area and begin repairs & resiliency along with maintaining coastal access.

And don’t forget! It’s spooky season!

The annual Capitola Village Halloween Parade will take place on Sunday October 29th. Dress to impress — or scare!

“Mayor Keiser” page 17

From left: Nikki Bryant LeBlond (Recreation Division manager), Staci Butcher (recreation coordinator), Cory McNair (recreation coordinator), Kristen Brown (vice mayor), Jessica Kahn (Public Works director), Scott Turnbull (SUESD superintendent), Margaux Keiser (Mayor), Dawn Addis (Assemblymember), Jamie Goldstein (City Manager), Kallista Edmundson (SUESD board vice president), Kaysie Anderson (recreation coordinator), Brennan Howard (Junior Lifeguard coordinator).

Embrace your well power.

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Like our more than 200 primary and specialty care providers located in more than 100 locations throughout the region. All backed up by Dominican Hospital’s nationally recognized programs for heart, cancer, obstetrics and other specialties.

Learn more at DignityHealth.org/SantaCruz.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2023 / 11

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LOCAL SPORTS

Top Runners at Mitty O n Oct. 12, the West Catholic Athletic League had its second center meet of the season at Baylands Park in Sunnyvale.

Santa Cruz resident Evie Marheineke, a junior at Archbishop Mitty, ran a very tactical race to earn 1st place (18.17).

Scotts Valley resident Alessia Carbone, a sophomore at Archbishop Mitty, placed 24th (21:41) in the varsity race.

Mitty placed 2nd as a team. Next up is WCAL Finals at Crystal Springs on Nov. 1 n

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12 / November 2023 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Oktoberfest for Wharf Enhancement

O

Photos by Gerry Jensen

n Oct. 14, sunny skies greeted visitors to Capitola’s Esplanade, which hosted an Oktoberfest fundraiser for the Capitola Wharf Enhancement Project.

Sierra Nevada beer was available, and the music got people dancing.

Attendees had a chance to learn about the Capitola Wharf Enhancement Project, which will fund amenities to embellish the ambiance of the historic wharf, broken in two by January storms and now being repaired by the City of Capitola.

In all, $9,425 was raised. To donate, see https://capitolavillage.com/wharf/ n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2023 / 13

FEATURED COLUMN

Top Young Scientist Invents Soap to Fight Skin Cancer H eman Bekele, 14, won this year’s 3M Young Scientist Challenge. He invented a soap as a treatment for melanoma skin cancer.

Heman Bekele competed against nine other finalists at 3M’s headquarters in St. Paul, Minn.

He is a freshman at W.T. Woodson High School in Virginia.

Born in Ethiopia, he came here when he was 4.

He says the memories of people working long hours outside under the glaring sun in Ethiopia stayed with him as he made his way through the Fairfax County Public Schools school system. He was struck by the dramatic differences in skin cancer survival rates in parts of Sub-Saharan Africa compared to places where high-tech cancer treatments are available.

“Skin cancer is mostly found on people who live within developing countries,” Heman says. “But the average price for an operation is $40,000. I was devastated by the idea of people having to choose between treatment and putting food on the table for their families. There are so many preventable deaths.”

He was determined to find a better way. So Heman researched skin cancer,

learning about dendritic cells, which he says help protect skin by boosting immune response. Then he spent months playing with salicylic acid, glycolic acid and tretinoin, trying to find the right combination to help treat skin cancer.

He developed SCTS, which stands for skin cancer treating soap, and works by Heman Bekele experiments with different combinations of products to reactivating dendritic cells. develop his skin cancer treating soap “I was just looking for a fun science experiment at first,” he says. a dozen different combinations. “PerOne major challenge was to find sistence is a very important part of the the right combo to ensure the soap held scientific process.” together. Using 3M Cavilon (a moisAs Heman advanced in the 3M turizer and barrier cream), coconut oil, Young Scientist Challenge, he received and organic shea butter, he was able to support from a 3M-assigned mentor who make that happen. worked with him over the summer to “It was so difficult to get a bar of turn his initiative into a prototype. soap that didn’t just melt immediately,” “Bekele” page 17 Heman says, adding he probably tried

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Operation Christmas Child L ocal families are turning empty shoeboxes into gifts of hope for boys and girls in need by filling them with school supplies like pencils, crayons and notebooks, personal care items and fun toys.

This is the 30th year of Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse to reach around the world.

In 2023, Operation Christmas Child hopes to collect enough shoeboxes to reach another 11 million children.

The nationwide collection week is Nov. 13-20. Across the U.S., the boxes head to eight processing centers where they are inspected, packed into cartons and shipped.

People are invited to repurpose an empty shoebox, wrap the lid separately from the box, and fill the box.

Kathy Newman, Santa Cruz County coordinator with her husband, recommends starting with a “wow” item, such as a stuffed animal or soccer ball, deflated, accompanied by a pump.

Yes, a soccer ball will fit in a shoebox once deflated and rolled.

Newman said volunteers at Felton Bible Church recently packed more than 500 soccer balls.

After the wow, then add toys, personal care items, toothbrush, washcloth, a bar of soap, and school supplies, such as pens and crayons.

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Nothing with an expiration date — such as candy — is allowed because that will create problems at the border. n ••• There are three drop-off locations: Corralitos Community Church 26 Browns Valley Road, Corralitos Hours Nov. 13 & 16 &18: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Nov. 14, 15 & 17: 2- 5 p.m.

Nov. 19: 1-3 p.m.

Nov. 20: 9-11:30 a.m.

Santa Cruz Community Church 411 Roxas St., Santa Cruz Hours Nov. 13 & 18: 11 a.m.– 3 p.m.

Nov. 14: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Nov. 15: 3-6 p.m.

Nov. 16: 1-4 p.m.

Nov. 17: 4 – 6 p.m.

Nov. 19: 12:30 – 4 p.m.

Nov. 20: 9 – 11 a.m.

Felton Bible Church 5999 Graham Hill Road, Felton Hours Mon, Nov. 13 & 14 & 16 &17: 1- 4:30 p.m.

Nov. 15: 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Nov. 18: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Nov. 19: 12:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Nov. 20: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

••• For a video on how to pack the shoebox, see amaritanspurse.org/what-we-do/operationchristmas-child/?utm_source= For questions, call Kathy Newman at 831818-6648 or email santacruzocc@gmail.com.

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2023 / 15

COMMUNITY NEWS

Pitch In Santa Cruz County P

itch in Santa Cruz County our environment and marine life, it announces the launch of a everyone’s quality of life.

“Pitch In is a community- impacts countywide campaign to Pitch In is a community-wide effort wide effort to make sure to make sure Santa Cruz County is reduce litter and keep debris out of Santa Cruz County’s beautiful public Santa Cruz County is the the cleanest in the state.”

“At Metro we strive to be a key spaces, including forests, beaches cleanest in the state.” environmental community partner and parks.

— Sally-Christine Rodgers and increase awareness about preMetro Santa Cruz and the serving our local Monterey Bay, County of Santa Cruz have installed dozens of awareness signs at high-traffic sites such as bus therefore we are pleased to partner with The Trash Talkers stops, parks and beach access points, including The Hook, on promoting littler prevention methods,” said Metro The Point, Moran Lake, Twin Lakes State Beach, Pinto Marketing & Communications Director, Danielle Glagola.

The Pitch In county-wide Initiative includes the Lake County Park, Quail Hollow County Park, and Anna offices of local, state and federal elected officials, Caltrans, Jean Cummings County Park.

So far, 120 signs have been installed, and The Trash California Highway Patrol, California Department of Fish Talkers’ Pitch In Santa Cruz County Initiative is working and Wildlife, Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office, County Office of Education, Pajaro Valley Unified School District, with other local jurisdictions to expand the campaign.

The coalition aims to engage local agencies and busi- Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, Santa Cruz nesses to help raise awareness for litter prevention efforts County Farm Bureau, County of Santa Cruz, City of Watwhile building a grassroots community effort to clean up sonville, City of Scotts Valley, City of Santa Cruz, City county watersheds, beaches, riparian areas, transportation of Capitola, local Chambers of Commerce and has been corridors, agricultural land, and abandoned encampments. endorsed by the County Board of Supervisors. n “Without a doubt, Santa Cruz County is the most ••• To learn more, visit https://pitchin santacruz.org. beautiful in California,” Trash Talkers lead organizer SallyChristine Rodgers said. “Unfortunately, too often this Pitch In signs remind visitors to local parks and beauty is marred by illegal dumping, debris, overflowing beaches of the importance of proper litter disposal. trash receptacles, litter and more. This not only impacts

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Capitola Community Center Renovation T he City of Capitola is moving forward on its commitment to upgrade the Capitola Community Center, which was built in the 1980s.

On Nov. 22, 2022, the Capitola City Council authorized the city manager to sign a long-term use agreement between the City of Capitola and Soquel Union Elementary School District for the Jade Street Park property, including the Capitola Community Center.

The agreement requires the City to complete improvements to the Community Center within four years.

In February, Boone Low Ratliff Architects was chosen to design the remodel.

The basic improvements are a new ADA-compliant restroom, ADA upgrades, plumbing, new HVAC and replacing the concrete tile roof with a metal roof, replacing wood trusses many of which have dry rot.

Ancillary improvements include: Kitchen remodel to meet current codes, replacing doors and windows where needed, new flooring and reconfiguring office space, and a new solid permanent wall between meeting rooms to improve acoustics.

In June the budget estimate was $1.4

“Mayor Keiser” from page 11 Line up will start at 1:30 p.m. in Parking lot #2 behind the police station.

The parade will start promptly at 2 p.m.

The basic improvements are a new ADAcompliant restroom, ADA upgrades, plumbing, new HVAC and replacing the concrete tile roof with a metal roof, replacing wood trusses many of which have dry rot.

million, not including exterior sitework, and the city included $1.65 million in the current year’s budget. But the cost estimate was higher, $2.4 million, so the project will be phased, and the $1 million delivered by Assembly Member Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) was most welcome.

City Clerk Julia Gautho said construction of the Community Center improvements will be reviewed during the fiscal year 2024-25 budget adoption.

Staff estimates that construction would begin no sooner than summer 2024. n

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and will wind through the Village where trick or treating can be done at the local businesses, and then ends at Esplenade Park.

Hope to see you there! n

“Bekele” from page 14 Heman thanks University of Virginia researchers, his teachers and his parents — including his mom Muluemebet Getachew, a special education teacher at Lynbrook Elementary School — for supporting him and developing his love of science.

He secured his victory during challenge events at 3M’s global headquarters in St. Paul, Minn. The final 10 contestants were evaluated on their ingenuity and innovative thinking, application of STEM principles, demonstration of passion and research, presentation skills and ability to inspire others, according to 3M. Along with his title comes a $25,000 prize, which Heman hopes to put toward securing a patent and college.

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Welcome Moods Boutique, the newest addition to Palace Art! His future goals include developing a nonprofit organization to distribute his soap in low-income communities by 2028.

Heman’s product, SCTS, can be made for $0.50 a bar, or $8.50 for a pack of 20 bars, he says. He believes using the soap every few days can help treat certain forms of skin cancer. n

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2023 / 17

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Autumn Color Appreciates Chill

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ndian Summer complicates autumn.

It is an imposition of pleasant weather that delays inevitable chill. Gardening is a bit more enjoyable while the weather remains summery.

However, late warmth confuses a few species that should decelerate growth for autumn. Deciduous species delay dormancy. This delays the development of autumn foliar color.

Consequently, autumn foliar color is somewhat late this autumn. It is only beginning to develop. Some species that eventually become spectacularly colorful remain very green. Only the most sensitive species, such as Boston ivy, are beginning to exhibit their color. Unfortunately, because of this delay, some may defoliate unusually soon after coloring.

Autumn foliar color is underrated here, for various reasons. It is less common in the wild than in other regions. The color range of native deciduous species is almost exclusively simple yellow. Orange or red are uncommon. This is not much incentive for incorporation of such species within home gardens. Nor does it promote more colorful exotic species.

Besides, deciduous trees are innately less popular here than within other regions. Local culture seems to promote a preponderance of broadleaf evergreen species. Penetration of warming sunlight through defoliated trees is not such a priority. Winter weather does not get very cold here. Concealment of undesirable suburban scenery is more important.

Also, the misbelief that chill is inadequate here for much autumn foliar color is common. Technically, many of the most colorful species of cooler climates lack such

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Maples perform better in cooler climates.

color locally. This unfortunately includes famously colorful North American maples.

Several species, however, do not need much chill for spectacular color. They compensate for what lacks.

Sweetgum develops the most vivid autumn foliar color, including yellow, orange and red. It defoliates slowly to retain its color until winter. PIstache is about as colorful, although it defoliates a bit earlier. Flowering pear provides more orange, red and dark burgundy red. Crape myrtle is a smaller tree with comparable foliar color. Ginkgo becomes vivid yellow.

Of course, physical traits of each species are also important.

••• Ginkgo inimal chill is sufficient for ginkgo, Ginkgo biloba, to develop brilliant yellow foliar color. Mild weather actually enhances retention of foliage after it colors.

Colder weather or frost accelerates efficient defoliation. Although less messy, it ruins the spectacular display too soon.

Autumn foliar color is monochromatically yellow, but is the best yellow of autumn.

Ginkgo tree develops brilSome old liant yellow color. ginkgo trees produce messy fruit with objectionable aroma. This characteristic limited their practicality and popularity. Modern cultivars, though, are male and therefore fruitless.

Female cultivars are very rarely available, and mostly only by online purchase. Their fruit and the nuts within are edible. However, only mature trees can be productive.

Ginkgo trees grow somewhat slowly, but can eventually get taller than fifty feet.

Modern cultivars are rather slender and perhaps lanky while young. They retain their elegantly irregular structure as they broaden with maturity. Leaves are about two or three inches long. Their venation radiates outward from their petioles, like fishtails, with paired lobes. n ••• Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo. com.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Comments Due Dec. 15 on Rail Trail EIR

Project Requires Cutting 804 Trees in Aptos, Capitola & Live Oak

T

he County of Santa Cruz, with the City of Capitola and the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission, has released the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the Coastal Rail Trail Segments 10 and 11 Project from Live Oak to Capitola and Aptos.

The 60-day public review and comment period is open through Dec. 15.

This is a 4.5-mile 12-foot-wide bicycle and pedestrian trail proposed to extend along the Santa Cruz Branch Line rail corridor from the eastern side of 17th Avenue in unincorporated Live Oak to the western side of State Park Drive in unincorporated Aptos area on the east.

It excludes a half-mile section on surface streets through Capitola from Opal Street/Cliff Drive Plaza to Monterey Avenue/Park Avenue.

On Dec. 7, the California Transportation Commission approved a $67.6 million grant through its Active Transportation Program for Coastal Rail Trail Segments 10 and 11, which fully funded the project for construction.

Plans by Harris & Associates

This is the largest ATP grant ever awarded.

The California Transportation Commission also approved $35.8 million for construction of Segments 8 and 9 (Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz to 17th Avenue in Live Oak. This $103 million is enough to build nearly 7 miles of trail, according to Santa Cruz County Public Works. A total of 18 miles of the Coastal Rail Trail are now fully funded for construction between Davenport and State Park Drive.

The EIR evaluates the “Ultimate Trail Configuration” (trail next to rail), and an “Optional Interim Trail” (trail on the rail line) whereby the railroad tracks would be removed and the trail would be located on the rail bed.

The goals are to increase the numbers of people biking and walking, improve safety, and provide quality connections to schools, parks, and community facilities.

This project will be

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part of the planned 32-mile Coastal Rail Trail that traverses the entire coastline of Santa Cruz County.

The 1,474-page Draft EIR by the county with technical assistance by Harris & Associates, Rincon Consultants and EcoSystems West Consulting evaluates the potential environmental impacts of the proposed project and recommends mitigation measures to reduce impacts to a less-than-significant level where possible.

The project would remove 804 trees, half of them native species and 344 of them coast live oaks, 264 in Santa Cruz and 80 in Capitola.

A total of 584 trees planned for removal are classified as “protected.”

Even with tree replating required on a 1:1 ratio, this impact would be “significant and unavoidable,” the EIR says.

The tree inventory is on pages 327 to 350.

Removal of this many trees will have an unavoidable impact on scenic vistas and monarch butterfly roost areas while conflicting with existing policies on tree removal.

The optional interim trail would require removing 957 trees, the Draft EIR says, and Alternative 1 (trail only) would remove 88 trees, and Alternative 2 (rail

with trail on opposite side of tracks) would remove 1,000 trees including a wind buffer and monarch roost trees.

Overall, the County considers the Ultimate Trail Configuration (Trail Next to Rail Line) to be environmentally superior on resource issues because it requires less ground disturbance.

Alternative 1 (Trail Only) is 16 feet wide and disturbs both sides of the tracks, extends a half-mile in the rail corridor rather than going through Capitola Village streets, and rail demolition would increase risk of exposure to hazardous materials.

Soil sampling near Shoreline Middle School found arsenic, which may come from railroad ties or its use as a weed-killer.

Plans are to test soil, excavate and haul to a landfill in Livermore or one in Stockton.

This would make the impact “less than significant,” the Draft EIR says.

Arsenic was also found in the soil when McGregor Skate Park was developed in Capitola.

The County is scheduled to receive public comments on the Draft EIR at a public meeting 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16.

To participate, see: https://www. santacruzcountyca.gov/RailTrail.

Written comments may be submitted by mail to Rob Tidmore, 979 17th Ave., Santa Cruz, CA 95062, or by email to RailTrail@santacruzcountyca.gov. Comments must be received by 5 p.m. Dec. 15. n ••• The Draft EIR is available for review Monday through Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. except on specified holidays, at the County of Santa Cruz, Planning Department, General Information Desk, 701 Ocean St., 4th Floor, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. The Draft EIR is also available at the Santa Cruz County Parks Department, 979 17th Ave., 2nd Floor, Santa Cruz, CA 95062, and online at https://www. santacruzcountyca.gov/RailTrail.

CALIFORNIA NEWS

AB 418: Chemicals in Food Banned in 2027 O

By Jondi Gumz

n Oct. 7, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 418 to prohibit the use of four dangerous chemicals in processed foods and drinks sold in California — starting in 2027.

Authored by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino), AB 418 prohibits the manufacture, sale, or distribution in California of any food product containing red dye No. 3, potassium bromate, brominated vegetable oil, or propyl paraben.

The use of these chemicals has been banned in the 27 nations in the European Union as well as many other countries due to scientific research linking them to cancer, reproductive problems, and behavioral issues in children.

Until 2027, California parents will have to read the ingredient list on the back of the package to see if these chemicals are in their children’s favorite treats or candies.

The State Senate amended the bill to delay implementation, giving food companies time to negotiate new contracts and phase in new recipes, and to remove titanium dioxide from the list of banned additives.

The Assembly vote was 65-6, nine abstentions, representatives Robert Rivas,

Dawn Addis and Gail Pellerin voting yes, and 33-3 in the Senate, John Laird voting yes, with four abstentions, including Anna Caballero.

Coke, Pepsi, Gatorade, Panera, Whole Foods and Kroger voluntarily stopped using the additives that would be banned under AB 418 because of concerns about their impact on human health.

“The Governor’s signature … represents a huge step forward in our effort to protect children and families in California from dangerous and toxic chemicals in our food supply,” said Gabriel. “It’s unacceptable that the U.S. is so far behind the rest of the world when it comes to food safety. This bill will not ban any foods or products — it simply will require food companies to make minor modifications to their recipes and switch to the safer alternative ingredients that they already use in Europe and so many other places around the globe.”

The Environmental Working Group, which sponsored the bill with Consumer

Reports, called it landmark legislation.

“AB 418 is the most important food safety bill in more than a decade and its passage is a historic victory for protecting kids and families from dangerous food chemicals,” said Scott Faber, senior vice president for government affairs at the Environmental Working Group. “For decades, chemical companies have been able to exploit a loophole that allows food additives to escape adequate review and oversight by the FDA. Since the FDA has failed to keep us safe, it has become the responsibility of states like California to step up and lead.”

Because California’s economy is the largest in the U.S., the legislation may lead to safer alternatives nationwide.

“We’ve known for years that the toxic chemicals banned under California’s landmark new law pose serious risks to our health,” said Brian Ronholm, director of food policy for Consumer Reports. “California has taken an important stand for food safety at a

time when the FDA has failed to take action.

Safer versions of food products that are available in other countries should be made available to U.S. consumers, too.”

The American Chemistry Council opposed the bill, on behalf of 11 organizations representing manufacturers, distributors and retailers of food and beverages, including the Consumer Brands Association. The National Confectioner’s Association also was opposed.

A “loophole” known as “Generally Recognized as Safe” allows food additives to be used in the U.S. without premarket review and approval by FDA, as long as they have been “adequately shown to be safe under the conditions of its intended use” through common use.

Many of the chemicals in AB 418 have been banned in Canada, the UK, Argentina, Brazil, Nigeria, Japan, South Korea, Peru, Sri Lanka, China, India, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Colombia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Jordan.

Red Dye No. 3 is banned by the FDA for use in cosmetics but is allowed in food. n ••• For fast-food testing results see https://www. momsacrossamerica.com/fast_food_results

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2023 / 21

COMMUNITY NEWS

My Ukrainian Daughter

Nancy Cooper Shares Tragedy and Triumph of Sister City Family

By Jondi Gumz

After Russian attacked Ukraine in 2022, Santa Cruz County resident Nancy Cooper texted her Ukrainian daughter, Sveta, in Kyiv. The attack up-ended Sveta’s life.

But she found love, married, and last year, gave birth to Pasha, her baby boy who will celebrate his first birthday in November.

Nancy, a Pajaro Valley teacher for 32 years, had visited Alushta, a resort beach town of 29,000 in Crimea,as a chaperone with the Pacific Collegiate School band as part of the Santa Cruz Sister Cities initiative in 2002 when Alushta was part of Ukraine.

Sveta, a talented trumpet player with the Alushta Music School, stayed at Nancy’s house when the school arranged a weeklong visits to Santa Cruz in 2005 and 2008.

The Alushta musicians gave concerts at Rio Del Mar Elementary School in Aptos, where Nancy worked, and Peace United Church in Santa Cruz.

During the first visit, Sveta met John Thomas, owner of the Thomas Musical Instruments and founder-conductor in 1994 of the Santa Cruz City Band, where Nancy played oboe, and bought a new trumpet to replace her old one.

On a later visit to Alushta, Thomas met a conservatory-trained pianist, Marina, who still has a brother and nieces in Ukraine. They fell in love and married and today, live in Ben Lomond.

Sveta moved from Alushta to Kyiv to take a job with the renowned all-female band, Freedom- Jazz. (Listen to their music on YouTube.com) Her brother joined the military.

When Russia attacked, her brother had to choose: Stay Ukrainian, or return to Alushta, which since 2014 had been taken over by Russia. He returned to Alushta, where Sveta ’s parents still live.

22 / November 2023 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“Nancy & Sveta” page 24

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Cruises & Airline Tickets: Don’t Make These Mistakes!

By Christopher Elliott

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ooking airline tickets for your next cruise may seem like a no-brainer, but please don’t make the mistake of turning off your brain. You could have to pay for a new flight — or even get stranded at the port.

Just ask Beverly Rasmussen, who booked her airfare through the EZAir program offered by Princess Cruises because it offered the “reassurance that it will get you to your ship” when there’s a delay. But when her airline canceled her flight and she couldn’t get through to the EZAir department by phone, she had to pay $1,517 for new tickets.

So much for the guarantee.

She says she’s called Princess numerous times but has gotten nowhere.

“Each time we sit on hold for hours, then the line disconnects,” says Rasmussen, a retired nurse from North Ogden, Utah.

Mistake: Airline Tickets are an Afterthought If you’re thinking of taking a cruise soon, maybe you’re wondering about airline tickets. Then again, probably not.

Travel advisors say airline tickets are often an afterthought to the cruise, a decision made at the end of the booking.

But let’s not do that. Wave season — the time of year when most cruises are booked — is dead ahead. And with the industry trade association Cruise Lines International Association predicting global cruise capacity will rise 19% from 2022 to 2028 (up from 625,000 berths to 746,000), you don’t want to make a rookie mistake.

“The last thing you need is to miss the cruise and then have to get to the next port,” says Limor Decter, a luxury travel advisor with EMBARK Beyond. “No one needs that kind of drama.”

There are no publicly available statistics on the number of passengers who miss their cruise because of airline connections. But based on the number of cases I’ve received lately, it seems to be a growing problem. Passengers don’t think about it soon enough, that’s true, but cruise lines also impose significant restrictions on their air-inclusive programs.

Cruise Line Guarantee Problems ooking airline tickets through your cruise line may seem like a good deal, because they often offer guarantees you

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If you book your airfare through the cruise line, it often promises to get you to the next port at its expense, but Mitchell says you shouldn’t push your luck. Give yourself a day.

No Travel Insurance aybe the biggest rookie mistake is failing to buy travel insurance. A specialty policy like BHTP’s WaveCare will track your flight and cover missed connections and lost luggage.

Adrienne Sasson, a travel advisor with Rubinsohn Travel, says travel insurance has saved the day for many of her clients. “Cruise lines do not always protect your flights and get you to the next port,” she says.

Delaying on Airline Tickets ut perhaps the biggest error is waiting until the end to think about airline tickets. If you consider airfare at the same time — and if you read the fine print on your tickets — you should be able to avoid most airline ticket problems.

A Long-Awaited Refund nd what about Rasmussen, the nurse from Utah, who spent an extra $1,517 on last-minute tickets? Her case was more than a year old by the time it landed on my desk.

After several phone calls — and hang-ups — she finally reached a Princess representative via a live chat in April, who apologized and told her: “That is not the experience we want you to have with us.”

But still, no refund.

I contacted Princess on her behalf. A Princess representative responded, “I can confirm our team has connected with the guest and advised they will be issuing a refund check.”

Rasmussen received the refund shortly after that.

Rasmussen’s case should have never gotten this far. There’s an ocean of fine print in these cruise line guarantees. As my old diving instructor used to tell me, never turn your back on the ocean. n ••• Christopher Elliott is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded Elliott Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes Elliott Confidential, a travel newsletter, and the Elliott Report, a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can email him at chris@elliott.org.

Illustration by Dustin Elliott

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B will make it to your ship even if your flight is delayed.

There are other benefits. The special contract fares offered through cruise lines are sometimes cheaper than published airfares. The cruise line air programs also often allow you to hold flight reservations until the final payment date. You can change flights at any time before making your final payment. You can’t easily do that if you book directly with the airline.

But there are also some downsides — which is to say, some restrictions apply.

After Debra Stewart missed her recent Norwegian Cruise Line cruise because of a flight cancellation, she found out the Booksafe Travel Protection Plan had a few strings attached. NCL would only offer a future cruise credit equal to 75% of the non-refundable cancellation charge because her flight cancellation was not covered under the Booksafe plan. She says that cost her $16,000.

I checked with NCL and it says the policy had been applied correctly to her Booksafe Protection Plan.

“Although Norwegian Cruise Line provides flight arrangements as part of its cruise offering, we do not have control over the operations of the airlines and are not responsible for any flight modifications or cancelations,” a spokesman told

me, adding that its claim assessments “are final.”

NCL noted that under its Booksafe Travel Protection Plan, it will provide guests who are denied due to a noncovered reason with a future cruise credit equal to 75% of the non-refundable cancellation charge to use on your next cruise, and that it had done so in this case.

“This is so wrong,” said Stewart, a physician from Bakersfield. “They canceled the flight, I missed my cruise — and I am out $16,000!”

Not to pick on NCL, but many of the cruise lines’ air-inclusive programs have similar restrictions. They will protect you in most cases, but not all the time. Experts say you can avoid this “gotcha” clause.

I’ll get to that in a moment.

The Worst Mistakes ou don’t have to get left at the dock while your dream cruise sails into the sunset. Here are some of the worst rookie mistakes I’ve seen: Last Minute Arrival ake sure you schedule your flight so you arrive in port a full day early — just in case something goes wrong and you need to reschedule your flight.

“Yes, many times it will entail additional expense for hotel and meals, but you have a much better chance of not missing the ship,” says Clark Mitchell, a cruise specialist with Strong Travel.

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2023 / 23

“Nancy & Sveta” from page 22 To tell Sveta’s story, with her permission, I am sharing the texts that have gone back and forth from the U.S. to Kyiv.

Nancy’s texts are in bold.

••• Feb. 22, 2022: How are you doing? I hope you are doing OK. We are thinking of you and sending love. Be safe!

Feb. 23, 2022: Hello, we are afraid and don’t understand what happed, so now we just waiting any information…thank you for wishes, everything will be ok)) Keep me informed on how you are doing. Have you been able to work during COVID? We worked a lot, everything was ok, and this night… terrible, I hope finished very soon, I will write you)) Stay safe.

I am situated near Kyiv, in small town, now most terrible is near me, my boyfriend with me, we hope this situation will be finished very soon, we are staying home and waiting news Keep talking to me. Love you!

Thanks!

Feb. 27, 2022: How are things today?

Terrible day, very terrible, we are ok, sit all day in a very small room without windows all day I’m so sorry. I think you are doing the right thing trying to stay safe. I wish I could help you. Sending lots of love.

Thank you (heart) Feb. 27, 2022: If you can get to Poland and want to come here, we will sponsor the two of you. Here is a link to request acceptance into the US. Here is the application to file https://uscis.gov/humanitarian/refugees-and-asylumasylum. I don’t know if you want to do this or if you can but we will help you if you want us to.

Feb. 27, 2022: Thanks, but we haven’t a car, our roads are destroyed, this place is our home, we will stay)) thank you (heart) Feb. 27, 2022: That’s what I thought but I wanted to offer in case you wanted to leave. I hope things have settled down some. Heart heart.

Thumbs up sign.

March 2, 2022: How are you doing?

Not good.

If someone from western Ukraine can pick you up, would you like to go to another part of Ukraine? My friend knows someone that could possibly get you.

It impossible, most safe place is our house, all roads dangerous.

Ok. Do you have food?

All stores closed, we have many food at home.

Happy to hear that. Know that we are always thinking of you. Lots of love.

March 3, 2022: How are things today?

Photo of destruction. It’s place near me. I feel sad and angry March 3, 2022: I wish I could help. We are all sad and angry, too.

I’m so glad you have internet! At least we know you are OK! And I am so glad) How are things today?

Normally) What is your boyfriend’s name? What does he do? How long have you been together? Picture?

His name is Dima, he is not musician, we are 2 years together and wanted married It will happen. Very good looking! Congratulations! Will he have to join the forces?

March 4, 2022: What is happening today?

March 5, 2022: Are you still online?

March 9, 2022: Praying that you are OK. Please contact me as soon as you can. 5 hearts March 10, 2022: Hello, it was terrible, we leave our home and now sit in underground and to leave Kiev and go to my friend Ira in Rovno, we are ok)) March 10, 2022: I am so glad. Is there a passage out?

The offer is still open if you need to come here.

Thanks, thanks, thanks, people is come out, now in a train, a lot of my neighbors, everything ok)) relatives of Dima waiting us)) Wonderful. Keep me informed. I worry a lot.

cool)

March 11, 2022: Did you make it out of Kiev?

March 12, 2022: Yes we are now in safe, quite, it’s so

Where are you? I am so happy. Are you with Dima’s relatives? Do you have food? Did you save your trumpet?

We are with relatives of Dima trumpet in Kiev, I hope it’s ok)) I only took documents and nothing more (( Here are a lot of food) She attaches a video Fantastic. The video shows terrible things. I hope soon you will be able to go back and be safe. So happy you are safe now.

March 13, 2022: What city are you in? Is it close to a border? He’s very close to Poland now.

It’s not close to Poland. Hmelnizk, a small city not near any borders Safer I hope.

Safer) Heart March 14, 2022: How are you today? We are headed back home after camping this weekend. I have to go to the doctor to check on my broken arm that I broke while walking our new dog. Thinking of you always! Heart heart You are so cool, you are walking all year, a lot of beautiful fotos, it’s amazing)) hope your arm is ok, we are setting in new hone and waiting good news) John Thomas says hello. He is so glad that you are OK and that you have been in touch with me. Your dad has been so worried.

Say hello to Jon) my father is worried, tired… it’s so hard when your daughter is not safe Yes it is. I claim you as my daughter too.

March 14, 2022: A big hi and hugs right back to her.

Thank you. From John March 17, 2022: Checking in! Luckily I don’t need surgery for my arm, just physical therapy, All is good. Hugs to everyone there.

It is very good, I am so happy I’m so glad. I’ll keep checking in every couple days.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Happy St. Patrik’s day March 23, 2022: How are you doing? Has the stuff in Kiev affected you very much? We’re all doing fine here March 24, 2022: Hello, usually we are happy that everything is over, but sometimes we want to cry that our whole life has changed and will never be the same, how are you?

We are all praying that Putin will give up soon and you can begin to build back Ukraine. Steven’s birthday is on Monday. We will celebrate with a nice dinner. Sending lots of love It is so cool, how are Steven doing? I will wait for foto of dinner)) March 25, 2022: Texts photo. This is Casey’s husband Erich, Casey, Ken, me, Steven and my brother Doug. I will send one from Steven’s dinner if he let me take one. He doesn’t like pictures. He is doing well and looking for a new job.

I hope Steven will find a new job)) you are so happy I like this foto so much March 28, 2022: Tell please Steven my best wishes and Happy Birthday, I hope he will get a new job from his dreams)) He says thank you!

I forgot to take a picture. He wanted barbecue. It was delicious!

It is ok)) barbecue…wonderful April 12, 2022: Checking in. How are you doing?

April 13, 2022: Hello, we are ok)) little secret-I am pregnant, and I have very strong toxicosis (if you understand this word) so now I am sleeping all days It is a secret Oh how exciting! When is the baby due? I had toxemia with Casey but only at the very end of the pregnancy. Can I tell Casey that you are pregnant? Do your parents know?

Yes you can say Casey)) my parents know it, they are happy, now we are 9 weeks, and I wait for 13 weeks and hope toxemia will finished)) very hope Congratulations! I’m so happy for you and hope you will feel better soon.

Thanks for congratulations Have you been able t get anything from Kiev or are you staying away still?

24 / November 2023 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

I am stay away, we want to return to Kiev, maybe in Moscow, now it is not safe in Kiev Others have said that it was better and I thought maybe you would pick up some of your things but not move back.

Stay safe! Don’t go back until you feel safe there.

Thumbs up sign April 18, 2022: I know your birthday is somewhere around now. I have lost the date. Happy birthday, probably late!

April 21. 2022: My birthday is 25 of June)) , I am normally but it so hard, I am so tired, every day is nausea Hopefully that part will be over soon and you will have more energy. It’s all worth it when you get to hold that beautiful baby. I don’t know why I thought your birthday was in April. It is the month after Casey’s, not the month before.

Hers is May 2.

I hope it will finish soon) Me too!

May 2, 2022: Congratulation with Casey’s birthday)) now I understand how it’s difficult to create a child)) happiness for all of your family Hope you are feeling better now. Casey went to Disneyland today. I’m sure she had a lot of fun. Two of my nieces are pregnant now too. They are due in September and October.

May 3, 2022: Disneyland is amazing, so good idea to spend her birthday)) I am a little bit feeling better, sleeping a lot)) tomorrow we will go to kiev, I am so happy Are you going to stay there or just pick things up? They were bombing again there We want to stay in kiev, now it is quiet, where we are is also bombing, if situation become dangerous we will go back here Just be safe! I hope everything in Kiev is safe where you left it Thanks)) we will be happy)) May 11, 2022: How did you find everything in Kiev?

Was your home ok and everything still there?

Hello, our home is ok)) we are happy, and my condition has improved, everything is very good)) how are you doing) May 12, 2022: We are good. I have an orchestra concert tonight and band concert Sunday. Then we leave for our trip on Monday.

Good luck)) for concert and trip Aug 19, 2022: Happy birthday Nancy)) I wish you more interesting trips, more good concerts and more and more happiness every day Thank you so much. How is my baby doing? Send tummy pics please. How are you holding up? Still in Kiev? Can I tell people yet?

Aug. 20, 2022: Photos attached. We are good, I eat a lot of apples, bananas and it makes me happy, we are living in Kiev, here is quiet How are you and Casey, Steven, Ken? Aug. 20, 2022: We are all good. You look so cute. Two of my nieces are due near the same time as you are. 3 babies at once. I love it!

Aug. 23, 2022: We wait a boy)) your friends also wait boys or girls? It is very interesting for me Aug. 23, 2022: How exciting. Neither of my nieces want to know the sex until the baby is born. It makes it hard to buy gifts for them! It will be a surprise! Is it ok to tell people now?

What is your address?

How are they buying clothes? Yes, you can tell people about me)) Address follows Thank you!

We aren’t buying clothes yet. We have to wait!

I don’t want to wait. I bought a little bit clothes. We are thinking about the name, it is so interesting)) Let me know when you pick a name. Are you getting everything you need?

We have almost everything, I say the name lately, it is so difficult to choose for us It’s always hard. We changed Casey’s name after she was born. We had a different name picked out.

Really? I think it wait us)) Have a couple ready and see what fits him.

In a quintet rehearsal at my house now. Everyone says hello When you have the next rehearsal say hello from me))] Sept. 22, 2022: How are you doing? When is the baby supposed to arrive? Do you have Amazon there? Is there a

way for me to get a gift certificate to your account? I know that they deliver in Ukraine. Can you order from them? No babies here yet.

Sept. 23, 2022: I’m fine, I’m a little tired, I sleep all the time and my ribs hurt a lot, husband says it’s the beauty of pregnancy, we don’t have Amazon. We still have a month to wait for a baby or more )) Attaches photo of herself and Dima, and her baby bump Did you get married? Congratulations! What do you need for the baby? Did you change your name? You look happy and beautiful!

Sept. 24, 2022: Thanks for the congratulations, we got married a long time ago, we are almost ready for the appearance of Pasha in our world Sept. 27, 2022: First baby was just born. It’s another girl for my nephew. Wren Olivia is her name Sept. 28, 2022: this is so cute. I hope you are having a good trip.

We are having a great time. I’m still trying to figure out how to get a useful gift to you. What do you want or need? Just clothes or other things?

We have everything for our baby, a lot of things were given by friends and acquaintances, enjoy every moment of the journey, it will be the best gift for me Oct.3, 2022: The second one is a boy, 5 days apart Now we are waiting the third baby)) He will be here before you know it! Getting excited!

Thumbs up sign Boy/girl. Gunnar/Wren. 2 photos attached They’re so cute.

They look like twins, not just cousins.

I think so too Can’t wait to see you.

1 or 2 months we must wait Yes. He’ll be a happy, healthy boy I hope.

Oct. 10, 2022: Checking to make sure that you are OK. How bad was it today?

Hello) we are sitting in a bomb shelter today, now we came home to eat and soon we will go there again, a little scary Stay safe. Keep me informed 3 hearts Everything is OK)) we are in the safe place Oct. 17, 2022: How are you doing?

Oct. 18, 2022: hello. I am ok, hard time has come, we’re holding on Stay safe and keep messaging so I know you’re ok.

Love you!

Nov 13, 2022: How are you doing? I have COVID right now but a light case. Just tired and stuffed up. Any contractions happening?

It is so bad that you have covid, my husband had covid in summer, it is difficult, I hope you will be healthy very soon I wait on my baby, one or two weeks maybe (attaches meme of Donald Duck nervously tapping on a table) Nov. 14, 2022: So exciting! I can’t wait and I know you are ready!

I am ready but my baby is not ready.

You never know. One of our babies came 3 weeks early and is super healthy. As long as their lungs develop it is good.

He will come when he’s ready. Are you staying warm? We have heard terrible stories of you not having power to get heat. I hope it will not be bad in the winter We have warm, only the electricity is turned off for 8 hours every day, we are already used to Let’s see what happens in winter, we hope for the best Hoping that it stays warm so your baby will be happy, warn and healthy Nov, 18, 2022: Pasha was born yesterday. Attaches photo of baby cradled in her arms with Dima looking on.

Congratulations! He’s beautiful and you look terrific!

Keep the pictures coming. Good job Mom! 5 hearts I hope everything went easily without complications Everything was ok, I tired Fantastic. Get some sleep while you can. You’ll be missing lots of sleep for a long time! He’s worth it though.

Nov. 26, 2022: Are you staying warm? How is that precious little one doing? Send more picture when you can I hope you’re getting some sleep.

“Nancy & Sveta” page 26

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Soquel Creek Water District’s Season of Gratitude

By Rebecca Gold Rubin

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t has been our custom to dedicate the November column to the theme of gratitude and give thanks for our many blessings, privileges, and the simple things that provide for our basic needs and bring us pleasure. As always, the list of things the District is grateful for is long and varied, but a few themes typically emerge: We are grateful for our water, our community, and our customers.

We can all benefit from the occasional reminder to be grateful for the things that sustain us in our lives.

At the District, we strive to remember that we are privileged to serve our community every day by providing a safe, reliable, high-quality, and sustainable water supply.

What if we all strived to maintain a spirit of gratitude more consistently? What if we gave thanks to our colleagues, friends, and family on a regular basis?

For instance, what if we had a moment of gratitude every time we turned on our tap and clean water flowed out?

This is easy to take for granted but consider that according to the U.N. World Water Development Report 2023, 26% of the world’s population doesn’t have access to safe drinking water.

We often take things such as clean water, sanitation, food, and electricity for granted, which is understandable given the quality of life many of us enjoy.

But this is the month for gratitude and Thanksgiving, so let’s pause and take stock of our blessings. Here is a list of some of the things we are grateful for at the Soquel Creek Water District.

Our 2023 Gratitude List

Our Customers and our Community e are fortunate to live in a community full of wonderful people who are fully engaged in what goes on around them.

And because those same people are also our customers, we are grateful you are vocal, responsive, and responsible. Our customers have responded to the need to use water responsibly and efficiently. You take advantage of the WaterSmart Portal, which helps to detect leaks and track water usage.

We also appreciate our community’s patience during the construction of the

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Pure Water Soquel project. We take pride in being able to serve you.

Pure Water Soquel he Pure Water Soquel project, which has been in full construction this year and is scheduled for completion next year, will create advanced purified water at the new water purification center and use it to restore our depleted groundwater basin and protect against further seawater intrusion.

The process will use highly treated wastewater from the city of Santa Cruz, that would otherwise be discharged into the Monterey Bay, to replenish the aquifer through recharge wells. We are grateful to the city of Santa Cruz for their partnership in this project.

There are many individuals — staff and board members — to whom we are indebted for making this project a reality.

Our Board and Staff his leads us directly to our gratitude for the sustained leadership and dedication of the District’s Board of Directors and staff.

We are very fortunate to have a Board with many years of experience and expertise in water policy, science and public service.

The Board has worked for many years to find a sustainable solution to our overdrafted groundwater basin and had the vision and commitment to bring about the Pure Water Soquel project. Our dedicated staff work tirelessly to maintain the water system, plan for the future, balance the books, manage projects, and keep the community informed of activities and programs.

Thanks to all of you.

Bureau of Reclamation: $30 million grant for Pure Water Soquel e are extremely grateful for the federal Bureau of Reclamation’s $30 million grant to Pure Water Soquel—the maximum grant total available for an individual project.

Our gratitude for this funding, that was executed in 2023 extends to the 2012 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that provides $8.3 billion in funds for water infrastructure projects.

Water Harvest Festival Sponsors and Participants he District’s 5th annual Water Harvest Festival on Oct. 14 was a tremendous

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success, and we are grateful to all the community groups, businesses, and community members for their sponsorship and participation.

The event achieved its goal to bring together residents, nonprofits and community organizations to educate, inspire, and empower families to make a positive impact on their local water resources.

We are grateful to everyone who has contributed to this wonderful tradition.

••• The list of things we are thankful for could go on but suffice to say we are grateful for many privileges, opportunities, and a caring community.

We wish everyone a safe, happy, and gratitude-filled Thanksgiving holiday. n

The 1940s

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ACROSS 37. *____ Strip on 1. Sylvester Stallone’s Mediterranean Sea, “____ King” 1948 6. And so forth, abbr.

39. Roman goddess, 9. Mongolian desert patroness of hunters 13. Uniate church member 40. *Moscow ____ 14. Additionally cocktail, created in 15. Modified “will” 1940s 16. Heart surgery prop 41. Beach souvenir 17. Remains container 43. Inspiring horror 18. Follow 44. Not long 19. *Thor Heyerdahl’s raft 46. Home to Bryce 21. *Jackie Robinson’s Canyon new team, 1947 47. Smoothie bowl 23. *Cassius Marcellus flavor Clay, Jr., born in 1942 48. Become available (2 24. Animal prod words) 25. Give a nickname 50. Links hazard 28. Dwarf buffalo 52. Mozart’s “L’____ del 30. Edible corn part Cairo” 35. Functions 53. Back of the neck 55. Transgression 57. *Carmen of “The Gang’s All Here”

61. *United _____, 6. Purse for the red 33. *Considered first established 1945 carpet general-purpose 65. Popeye’s sweetie 7. High craggy hill computer, acr.

66. *The BAA and NBL 8. Type of dwelling 34. a.k.a. vampire merged, forming this 9. “The ____ Show” 36. Espied ball org., 1949 (1976-1980) 38. a.k.a. Daminozide 68. Battle royal 10. Yorkshire river 42. ____ Apso 69. Denigrating 11. Hangover memory? 45. Tornado visual statement 12. 15th of March 49. Helicopter landing 70. What divots and divas 15. Tied the knot 51. Coal miners have in common 20. *Leopold III of 54. Bear of bamboo forest 71. Audience’s approval Belgium and Christian 56. Brother’s daughter 72. Lad’s counterpart X of Denmark, e.g.

57. Gangster’s gal 73. Number on a birthday 22. Acorn producer 58. Hip bones cake 24. Common newspaper 59. Barbecued anatomy 74. Not o’er name 60. Birds 25. *”When I See an 61. Part of cathedral DOWN Elephant Fly” elephant, 62. Cantina cooker 1. Poacher’s trophy 1941 63. Sans mixers 2. “Do ____ others...” 26. Steal a throne 64. Comedian Meyers 3. Bank claim 27. Misrepresent 67. *”The ____ Sleep,” 1946 4. *1947’s “Here Comes 29. *Pearl Harbor location ____ Claus” 31. Capital of Latvia © Statepoint Media 5. King of the Huns 32. Narcotics agent

Answers on 31 »

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2023 / 25

Scorpio Sun & Mercury – Eclipse Effects Esoteric Astrology • November 2023 • By Risa D’Angeles

B

oth Sun and Mercury are in Scorpio now. Hermes, the messenger (Mercury), sending information to humanity via the rays of the Sun. It’s a Scorpionic message, concerning Scorpio’s Nine Tests, given each year at this time by the Lord of Mars, preparing us for discipleship (Scorpio and Sagittarius), for service (Capricorn and Aquarius) and should any of us aspire to save the world, for our work in Pisces.

Mars, Scorpio’s personality and Soul ruler, provides the tests. They are both rigorous and very subtle. One must be very observant to see and understand how they are working out in our lives. It’s good to have an astrology chart – one’s own personal heavenly geometry to gaze at and learn from.

Mercury in Scorpio means we can use our words to create, encourage, hearten, cheer, reassure and offer hope. Or communication (ours/others) can be damaging, destructive, cruel, unkind, merciless and heartless.

Should we observe the latter in ourselves, we may choose a formal study of Compassionate/Non-violent Communication techniques. So we learn to no longer unconsciously be cruel and destructive in our words.

October 28, at the full moon festival of Scorpio, there was a lunar eclipse. The influence of the eclipses last three months after the actual ARIES

event. During a lunar eclipse, the full moon slowly dims as it passes through the Earth’s shadow, revealing what is hidden in our personal lunar shadow. A lunar eclipse is subtle, but its electromagnetic effects can be felt if observed. The lunar eclipse full moon was at 5 degrees Scorpio/Taurus. Issues related to certain areas of life will continue as an undercurrent of change for the next three months.

At a lunar eclipse, as the moon’s reflected light/energy is hidden, it means something in form and matter in our lives disappears too. The moon represents our past, that which must be left behind leaving room for the new world era.

The most important astrological information to understand is the neutrality of eclipses and actually all the signs, planets and stars as their energies (in the form of light) precipitate down into our earth. How we experience the influence of the heavens is dependent upon our state of awareness, our knowledge of the science and art of astrology and our developmental stage. Astrology as a study of the heavens is humanity’s new psychology.

••• Read more on Risa’s FB page and website: www.nightlightnews.org.

LEO

Subtle yet important shifts will be occurring in your life and on For some Leos, new and exciting, intelligent and loving inner levels. You may feel as if you’re in a boat relationships will be appearing. For other Leos, having property and money in rocking to-and-fro wondering where you’re being common becomes either unavailable or taken and why. Attempt to anchor yourself within too much responsibility. Other Leos will whatever spiritual reality calls to you while also reaching out to friends for support as well as reaching well into experience deep psychological changes. For all Leos past the future with hope. No one is prepared for the future. It is an needs have shifted to new needs and unexpected situaunknown. But you will be one of those asked to help bring it forth. tions feel intense and fated. They are. And through it all, you say “I am a creator, I am creative, I am loving, I am You can and you will. For now, observe and be a silent watcher. all of that.”

TAURUS

New and different ways of living are being shown to you and they challenge your previously conservative (a safeguarding way to live for you) ways.

There will be new dreams, goals and visions offered also, and at first you will say “No” which is good as it gives you time to think. Then you will, after pondering, come around to realizing these are worthy ideas you need to ponder upon and pursue. Take your time.

When you decide on something you move quickly.

VIRGO

It seems certain changes must be made in relationships.

This does not signify a fault. It signifies growth. You may also unexpectedly embark upon an unusual relationship. Although not advisable, you’ll learn through its instability.

Daily strategies will need to shift. Conflicts arising alert you that past patterns of relating won’t work anymore. The new ones will either be created by you, by others, or simply appear.

GEMINI

LIBRA

Sometimes we express our identity by creating conflict or challenging authority. As we bear the consequences of this, we learn more and more about ourselves defining who we are and what we want (or don’t want) and how to not be unskillful.

You may feel limitations, which drive you to change. These changes lead to a new sense of freedom. New opportunities suddenly appear and events may occur that surprise or shock. Then a new direction suddenly manifests.

Should anyone or anything make excessive demands upon you, choose a path different than yours and expect you to follow, should there be extreme responsibilities professionally, or anything too binding or restrictive, you will break free in order to ease tension, you will escape in order to find your own way, and you will seek your own path in order to maintain health and happiness. Your entire life will be revolutionized.

Slowly.

CANCER

SCORPIO

It’s important you consciously choose to have an open mind (Mantram: “I have a clear, unlimited open mind at all times” recited over and over) to absorb the new possibilities soon appearing that change your worldviews. Events inform you your previous thinking was a bit askew, uneven and off kilter. Allow your thinking to be adjusted toward the truth and no longer based on others’ opinions and judgment. This will be a large step in creating a new mind and awareness.

Does life feel a bit more exciting? Are relationships during these years not very long term? They may be durable but you find you can’t have expectations. It could be that children or a very creative enterprise are/is in your life.

With both (children and creativity) you see the need to be innovative, more attentive, and taking different approaches, which help you, redefine and then refine your abilities. More understanding follows. Yes? •••

SAGITTARIUS

Your relationships to family, parents, home, the past are most important aspects of your life. There is a release occurring and a reform within the family and you are the one whose task it is to bring the past to the present. On outer levels you feel unsettled no matter what you’re doing. You must summon flexibility. Whatever you have not looked at will emerge and gaze at you. The deepest level of your being is shifting to new heights. Hold onto your parachute.

CAPRICORN

It is important that you observe your communication and how it affects others. You must also know that the tempo of your life has increased and this can make for impatience with others, especially those slower than you, younger, more vulnerable. It shows the quality of a person in how they communicate with those who, needing help, look to us for guidance and care. Your old and learned habits, if they do not serve others, must fall away. Goodwill in all ways is your new keyword.

AQUARIUS

Have your finances begun to withstand changes and is your economic and material situation not what it was before. This is occurring, or will occur, for everyone, but it seems to have begun with you. You will find that through this, your values also change. You already know to be thrifty, organic, biodynamic, and sharing. This is only the beginning. The next steps for Aquarians are two: astrology and community. One leads to and encompasses the other.

Risa D’Angeles • www.nightlightnews.org • risagoodwill@gmail.com 26 / November 2023 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

PISCES

Have you been acting in ways different from your usual behavior? It could be a seeking of a new life or maybe for freedom even though others may see it as rebellion on the personality level. Should this behavior continue, you must then heed the message that perhaps certain changes in your life are overdue. Sometimes limitations appear to help us develop discipline, self-identity, contemplation, and a new plan for life. What would that new life look like?

“Nancy & Sveta” from page 24 Nov 29, 2022: It is warm)) I want to sleep every moment..and now I am sleeping)) Attaches photo of her holding the baby He is so precious!

YES with a meme of a penguin nodding yes Dec. 17, 2022: Pasha is father’s child. Attaches 2 photos, one where she holds the baby and the other of Dima holding the baby looking at the camera Awe. So cute! He looks like he’s Mama’s boy too!

Dec. 19, 2022: I hope he takes something from me)) Of course he will. Love, love, love.

Dec. 24, 2022: Merry Christmas Thumbs up sign Jan. 5, 2023: Merry Orthodox Christmas! Are you doing anything to celebrate? Hope all is well Jan. 7, 2023: Thank you, we don’t celebrate much, there was a festive dinner with my husband’s parents, we are a bit tired now )) Sleep while you can!

Texts a photo of baby sleeping on his sleeping father’s chest He’s growing! So sweet 5kg of happiness Comfy cozy happiness! 4 hearts Feb. 18, 2023: Hello)) How are you doing? Attaches a photo of herself cuddling the baby. I and Pasha send kisses and rays of happiness for you.

Two beautiful people! Kisses and love right back to you.

Stay warn with yur cuddly little guy! 5 hearts March 21, 2023: How are you doing? How is that little sweetheart doing? What new tricks has he learned?

March 23, 2023: Texts a video of baby on his tummy on his playmat, and 2 photos, one a closeup of baby smiling and the other laying on his father’s chest and looking up at the camera.

He smile every day He is so cute! What a good job you are doing! Happy boy and happy mama and daddy.

This is my job next 3 years)) March 24, 2023: The best job ever!

Aug. 19, 2023: Dear Nancy, Happy Birthday)) we wish you a lot of fun, healthiness and happiness Thank you so much! I need a new baby picture!!! Hope you are doing well Aug. 20, 2023: We are well, now we are having barbecue with parents of my husband. Attaches 3 photos of baby I was showing these pictures of Pasha to Rowan yesterday and there was a friend there who is a reporter. She wants to write an article about you and has some questions What is your husband’s last name? What is his job? Has he had to serve in the military? How did you meet each other?

Do you have access to things for the baby? Is there any way we can help you? … Is it Ok with you for her to write your story?

Aug. 25, 2022: It is ok to write but I am very busy right now, a little later will write answers.

Sept. 7, 2023: Hello, it was a terrible two weeks. My husband, Gamayunov Dmytro, he is engineer of health and safety, we met on a dating site, he did not serve in the military, his eyesight is very poor We have everything for baby, there is a lot of humanitarian aid in Ukraine. My husband’s parents are living near us and help us. My parents see me and Pasha on Skype.

Thank you. I hope things are calmer now. I’m so glad that thigs like Skype exist so you can see your parents and they can see the baby. Not the same as holding him though Sept. 8, 2023: Everything is fine with us now and I hope that everything is fine with you.

On Skype, my parents can see every stage of Pasha’s development) n ••• The next Sister Cities committee meeting is Nov. 13 at 7 p.m. Santa Cruz started a Sister Cities relationship with Alushta in 1984 and Shingu, Japan, in 1974. Teens in grades 8-10 are invited to visit Shingu during spring break 2024. Applications are due Nov. 15. Information Night is 6 p.m. Oct. 17. To learn more about Santa Cruz Sister Cities, see https://www.cityofsantacruz.com/government/ city-departments/parks-recreation/advisory-bodies/ sister-cities-committee

COMMUNITY NEWS

Ukrainian Art in the Park, a first-time event in Capitola Village on Aug. 26, was a big success. • Photos by Jondi Gumz

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2023 / 27

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Have a virtual or live event you want to promote?

Send your information to info@cyber-times.com by November 20

Aptos Nov. 4: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m., Twin Lakes Church, 2701 Cabrillo College Drive Santa Cruz Nov. 2: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 220 Elk St.

“Santa Cruz County has been through so much since we held our last TEDxSC event in 2019 – the EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN COMMENTS DUE COVID pandemic, CZU fires, and back-to-back CURIOUS NARRATIVES: IMAGINED MEMORIES The 2023 Santa Cruz County Draft Emergency storms and floods,” said event co-producer Nada Nov. 17, 2023 – Jan. 6, 2024, Santa Cruz Art League, 526 Operations Plan is available for review.

Miljkovic, UC Santa Cruz program manager of the Broadway, Santa Cruz The Santa Cruz County Office of Response, Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurial DevelOpening reception: 6-8 p.m., Friday, Dec. 1 Recovery and Resilience (OR3) announces opment.

“Our community has literally risen together, Artist talk: 1:30-3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2 the draft 2023 Santa Cruz County Emergency disaster after disaster, to meet each challenge.”

The Santa Cruz Art League will present Curious NarraConsuelo Alba, co-founder and executive director Operations Plan is now available for public review tives — Imagined Memories, featuring creations by and comment. This is the first comprehensive of the Watsonville Film Festival, is working with COUNTY FAIR BOARD MEETINGS Santa Cruz County artists Wendy Aikin of Aptos, Jean countywide plan.

Miljkovic and Jenny Kurzweil of Community Foun1:30 p.m., SC County Fairgrounds, 2601 E. Lake Ave., Watsonville Sheckler Beebe of Aptos and Judy Stabile of Watsonville.

Read the 189-page plan and leave a comment The remaining County Fair Board meeting date in 2023 is dation Santa Cruz County to produce the event.

The exhibit is on display from Nov. 17 through Jan. 6. at https://www.santacruzcountyca.gov/OR3/ The theme is meant to suggest “an immense Tuesday Dec. 5.

Meetings also take place on Zoom.

This exhibition is an expansion of Aikin’s installation scale of collaboration,” Alba said. “How do we rise Response/EmergencyOperationsPlanDraftPubThe Curator’s Office which was part of The Museum of For agendas, see santacruzcountyfair.com. licCommentReview.aspx together? How do we build effective and lasting Curious Perceptions exhibition at Pajaro Valley Arts in Comments are due by Nov. 2. collaborations?”

2018. Aikin created a life-size cabinet of curiosities of CABRILLO YOUTH STRINGS The theme was inspired by the Rise Together Registration for the Cabrillo Youth Strings chamber an imaginary museum curator.

BLM RECRUITING FIREFIGHTERS coalition, a Community Foundation initiative music program is underway.

Aikin, Beebe and Stabile are expanding on their that brings together local Black, Indigenous, The Bureau of Land Management is hosting Classes will meet 4:15-5:30 p.m. on Fridays for five interpretations of the characters in Aikin’s assemblages. recruiting events Dec. 1-3 in Riverside and Feb. 2-4 Through sculpture, collage, assemblage, painting, found weeks in the Music Building, VAPA 5000, beginning and People of Color leaders to advance racial equity. Rise Together members are volunteering in Sacramento to quickly fill 100+ vital wildland objects and fiber arts, the artists are creating environ- Nov. 10. to help organize the event, particularly lunchtime firefighter and dispatch positions in California for String players with good note-reading experience, ments for their imagined lives. networking. the 2024 fire season.

Above Artwork by: Wendy Aikin • Jean Sheckler Beebe • Judy ages 8 to18 are welcome to participate.

To apply to be a speaker, volunteer, or sponsor, see Details: The recital will be 7 pm, Friday, Dec. 15, at Stabile tedxsantacruz.org. Speaker nominations are due Nov. 5 Dec. 1-3: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Pacific Southwest VAPA5156.

Research Station, 4955 Canyon Crest Drive, To participate or support this program, call (831) 479-6101. and speaker applications Dec. 3.

CAPITOLA LIBRARY ACTIVITIES Riverside.

Register at https://www.cabrillo.edu/cabrillo-youth-strings Wednesday Nov 1, 6-7:30 p.m. — Safety in Santa Feb. 2-4: Friday, 12 pm - 4 pm; Saturday. 8 am to RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVES or via Cabrillo Extension, 479-6331, or email extension@ Cruz: Supervisor Manu Koenig’s Perspective 4 pm; Sunday 8 am to 2 pm. at Doubletree by Hilton cabrillo.edu before the first class.

The American Red Cross continues to experience a Join an informative discussion with First District national blood shortage and asks the public to book a Hotel, 2001 Point W Way, Sacramento.

Supervisor Manu Koenig on his perspectives, input, Staff will be on-site to review resumes, time to give as soon as possible. Donors of all blood and challenges regarding safety, homelessness, and TEDXSANTA CRUZ SEEKS SPEAKERS conduct interviews and background checks and, types are urgently needed, especially type O and those government. Bring your questions.

Organizers are calling for speakers, volunteers, and at the Sacramento event, potentially make job RSVP to safetyinsantacruz.com sponsors for the next TEDxSantaCruz: Rising Together, giving platelets.

To make a donation appointment, download the Red offers.

Thursday Nov. 2, 5-6 p.m. — The Friends of the slated for Saturday, April 13, at Cabrillo College’s “California’s need to build our wildland firefighter Aptos Library meeting Crocker Theater. The call is open to everyone who lives Cross blood donor app, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call workforce is increasing and the Bureau of Land 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) Thursday Nov. 2, Nov. 2 6-8 p.m. — The Amazing or works in Santa Cruz County.

Management is looking to expedite the hiring and Exciting Menstrual Cycle workshop series led by process,” said State Fire Management Officer Peter Dr. Megan McNamara, instructor in the UC Santa Cruz SUESD COMMUNITY POP-UP & NBMS HARVEST FESTIVAL Kelly.

Sociology Department.

See www.firejobs.doi.gov/crews for available jobs.

Sunday Nov. 5, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Advisory Council Saturday November 4 Webinars with tips for applicants will be Nov. 9 of Teens, the SCPL young adult advisory group. and Jan. 25. Register at www.blm.gov/californiaSoquel Union Elementary School District and the New Brighton Middle Tuesday Nov. 7, 3:30-4:30 p.m.— Aptos/Capitola Youth firehire School Home and School Club have combined forces to present this Chess Club. Come and play chess, one of the world’s Salaries, application instructions and deadspecial event 1 1 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, at New Brighton Middle oldest and most popular games, against other kids! Onelines, will be at www.usajobs.gov/Search/ hour meetings include 15 minutes of instruction by chess School, 250 Washburn Ave., Capitola.

Results?l=California&a=IN05&p=1 All members of the community are welcome to attend -- you do not master Dana Mackenzie. For ages 6-18.

Applicants can visit www.blm.gov/california-firehire have to be directly affiliated with Soquel Union Elementary School District or New Brighton Middle School.

Thursday Nov. 9, 10:30-11:30 a.m. — Internet and Attendees can enjoy fun times as the calendar turns to fall and engage with community partners --comComputer Basics workshops designed specifically for pletely free. adults.

ONGOING EVENTS Free backpacks and school supplies will be available while live music is being played by the local band, Dos Tuesday Nov. 14, 6:30-7:30 p.m. — Presentations Mondays and discussions about AI and how it will impact society. Bros, as well as performances by the NBMS Student Band.

SafeRX will offer information on, and distribution of, Naloxone (brand name Narcan®) a life-saving BRIDGE CLUB Saturday Nov. 18, 2:30-3:30 p.m. — Join Native FDA-approved medication used to reverse overdoses from opioids such as heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, and 10:30 a.m.-Noon, Capitola Branch Library, 2005 Wharf American author D. M. Rowell (Koyh Mi O Boy Dah) morphine.

Road from for a discussion about her life, book, and Kiowa Other community partners who will be present include: The Capitola Branch Library will host Bridge Club culture. Copies of her book, Never Name the Dead, will • Cabrillo College sessions on Mondays (except holidays). be available for purchase.

• Capitola Parks and Recreation Everyone is welcomed from beginners to social • Capitola Police Department players. Make new friends and sharpen your CERT BASIC IN-PERSON CLASS • Dientes mind.

This class is a free in-person class. The class will consist • Flow Bridge Club is a partnership between Santa Cruz of 4 evening classes and one weekend day which • Girl Scouts County Parks and Santa Cruz Public Libraries. combine lecture, discussion, and hands-on skills practice.

• NBMS Library Register at scparks.com or in-person the day of the Topics covered: Disaster Preparedness, CERT • Second Harvest Food Bank event.

Organization, Disaster Medical Operations, Disaster To make this a day one the whole family can enjoy, the NBMS Home and School Club will host their Harvest Psychology, Fire Safety and Utility Controls, Light Search Festival! The carnival part of the festival requires an all-access wristband which costs $20 presale at https:// Third Thursdays and Rescue, and CERT and Terrorism. checkout.square.site/buy/J35PXCCMHXW4KJE72QCBCVQ6 SIP AND STROLL Four Tuesdays: Jan 16, 23, 30 and Feb. 6 from 6 to The wristband will cost $25 on the day of the event and allows you to participate in all carnival activities plus 6-9 p.m. (check-in starts at 5 p.m.), Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old 9:30 pm at Market Street Senior Center, 222 Market a free ticket for popcorn or cotton candy.

Dominion Court, Aptos St., Santa Cruz.

The NBMS cheerleaders will offer delicious treats at their bake sale and a food truck will be on hand.

Come to the Seacliff Inn: Tapestry Collection by One Saturday: Feb. 10 from 9 am to 4 pm, at Central Fire Station, 930 17th Ave, Santa Cruz/Live Oak. ALL class sessions are required.

COVID precautions used during the class:https:// santacruzcountycert.org/cert-covid-19-policy/ Click Submit and Sign Up after selection is made.

Note* The sign-up page will only list the January 16th date, but you will be registered for the entire series of classes. You will receive a confirmation email if sign-up was done properly.

28 / November 2023 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Hilton, for a Sip & Stroll event where local artists to show and sell their works. Wines are 30% off, and the featured winery will offer tastings of three varietals for $10 per person.

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wine30-sip-strolltickets-668910307737

Presented by the Agricultural History Project.

Tickets start at $10, children under 12 can enter for free. No pets. Get tickets at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/goat-hillfair-tickets-717255880647.

Second Friday Each Month NEW BRIDGE GROUP 10:30-Noon, La Selva Beach Public Library, 316 Estrella Ave. Come for bridge on the second Friday of each month from 10:30 to noon at the La Selva Beach library.

First meeting was Oct. 13. Bette Harken, Master Bridge player, will give an introduction for beginners.

Call La Selva Library to reserve your seat: 831-427-7710.

DANTE ALIGHIERI SOCIETY: ITALIAN FILM SERIES 7-9:30 p.m., Cabrillo College’s VAPA building 1000, Art History Rm 1001, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos Dante Alighieri Society of Santa Cruz is sponsoring a Fall Italian Film Series: New Horizons | Nuovi Orizzonti, which started Sept. 10 at Cabrillo College Free admission; Limited seating; first come, first served. Cash donations welcome.

Olimpia’s Way (Acqua e anice). Directed by Corrado Ceron, 2022. (109 mins) For more about the films, visit: www.dantesantacruz.com/ events

DATED EVENTS Wednesday November 1

TOWN HALL ON INSURANCE 5:30-8:30 p.m., Online Meeting Assembly Member Gail Pellerin , D- Santa Cruz, plans a Zoom town hall on home insurance for constituents.

Link: https://tinyurl.com/GailP-Ins-Town-Hall-Nov1 She is working with the state insurance commissioner’s office.

Homeowners in Santa Cruz County, where the CZU wildfire destroyed 900+ homes, have reported the price they pay for home insurance has doubled since the fire.

State Farm, Allstate and Farmers, have either stopped selling new policies or are limiting them in California, citing increased financial risk after devastating wildfire seasons coupled with rising inflation.

Sunday November 12

Saturday November 18 Sunday November 19

AROMAS HILLS ARTISANS HOLIDAY ART FESTIVAL 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Aromas Grange, 400 Rose Ave Aromas Hills Artisans invite you to their Holiday Festival at the Aromas Grange, with 30 arts and crafts booths, music by Jesse AI HORIZONS Martinez and Wednesday November 8 free workshops taught by 6-8:30 p.m., Location TBA members.

Guy Kawasaki is set to lead a Santa Cruz Works Fireside Chat with UCSC’s Chancellor Cindy Larive and Everything is Shift AI’s Boaz Ashkenasky Wednesday Nov. 8. SapientX, Baskin School of Engineering, and Santa Cruz handmade. The County will share insights on AI’s role in their sectors. artists will be on A “live” avatar will greet you at the door. Demos from 10+ companies. Location to be announced. Tickets hand. You can Thursday November 2 are $25 at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ai-horizons-tickets-741295042427 create someBIG BASIN WATER MEETING thing wonderful 7-8:30 p.m. Boulder Creek Fire, 13230 Central Ave. to take home as Tickets are $169 at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/9thCounty Park Friends hosts free Family Field Days with Big Basin Water customers are invited to attend a a reminder of a annual-state-of-the-region-tickets-695045077537?

Live Like Coco and America Scores at Pinto Lake community meeting at Boulder Creek Fire, hosted by day well spent. aff=oddtdtcreator County Park.

Supervisor Bruce McPherson and featuring Silver & Raffle tickets Events include a soccer clinic, guided walks, free Wright LLP, the court-appointed receiver.

Friday November 3 to win a beaubooks, nature, art and food.

On Oct. 5, Santa Cruz County Superior Court Register at www.eventbrite.com/e/family-field-daysdias-de- tiful piece of Judge Timothy Volkmann signed an order granting CABRILLO YOUTH STRINGS CONCERT Christine West displays her jewelry artwork may be campo-familiar-tickets-700495469807 7 p.m., Cabrillo Music Building, VAPA 5156, 6500 the California Water Resources Control Board’s purchased up until the drawing at 2 p.m. Sunday. request to appoint Silver & Wright as receiver over Soquel Dr. Proceeds support the nonprofit Aromas Hills Tuesday November 7 Cabrillo Youth Strings presents a Fall Orchestra the Big Basin Water Company’s drinking water Artisan’s Guild which promotes art education.

Concert at the Cabrillo College Music Building. system.

SWING LEFT SANTA CRUZ TO SPEAK The AHA organization also provides scholarships The concert features string orchestra selections, 6:30 p.m., Bruno’s Bar and Grill, Kings Village Shopping As receiver, Silver & Wright is to assume to members, enabling them to attend classes to Celtic, international, and contemporary music: Soon possession and control of the system and work to Center, 230 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley further develop their artistic abilities.

Hee Newbold, Pharrell Williams, Dmitri Shostamaintain a reliable supply of water to the utility’s Jane Eagen and Rene Bloch from Swing Left Santa When you visit Aromas, take a look around the town kovich, and others. more than 500 customers in compliance with state Cruz will be the guest speakers for the Democratic at the eight murals, including the bridge full of fish, a Local youth will perform with a violin soloist and and local laws.

Club of North Santa Cruz County upstairs at Bruno’s community project, designed and sponsored by Aromas guest artists.

Customers may attend this meeting in person or virtually.

Bar and Grill.

Hills Artisans.

Suggested donations at the door: General, $10, Pre-registration required, at https://tinyurl.com/BigBasinThe speakers will discuss ways club members can Admission is free. n students/seniors, $5, children 17 and under, free.

Water get involved to help support Democratic candidates All proceeds benefit the Cabrillo Youth Strings Program in swing districts in California and across the STATE OF THE REGION APTOS CHAMBER ANNUAL AWARDS DINNER AND AUCTION country.

9 a.m.-5 p.m., Embassy Suites by Hilton Monterey Bay Members of the public are welcome to attend.

5:30 p.m., Seascape Beach Resort, One Seascape Resort Dr. Seaside, 1441 Canyon Del Rey Blvd.

Aptos Chamber of Commerce will celebrate the people, Monterey Bay Economic Partnership’s 9th Annual organizations and businesses that make Aptos special at Friday November 10 State of the Region will be at Embassy Suites by the Aptos Chamber Annual Awards Dinner and Auction. Saturday November 11 Hilton in Seaside.

Tickets are $125 until sold out!

GOAT HILL FAIR Topics include workforce housing, the business Reservations: (831) 688-1467, or aptoschamber.com.

10 a.m.(Fri) / 9 a.m.(Sat) to 4 p.m., Santa Cruz County case for early childhood investments, securing fairgrounds, 2601 E. Lake Ave., Watsonville digital equity; food innovation; equity; climate Saturday November 4 Goat Hill Fair, an antique and vintage show, will take resiliency and building a sustainable future. and Saturday November 18 place at the Santa Cruz County fairgrounds.

U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta, D-Carmel Valley, Enjoy two full days of shopping over 100 vintage and FAMILY FIELD DAYS Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas,D-Salinas, and antiques vendors. A wide variety of food offerings will Assemblymember Dawn Addis D-Morro Bay, will 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Pinto Lake County Park, 789 Green Valley be available.

Painting by Kati D’Amore share insights on the legislative landscape.

Road, Watsonville

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / November 2023 / 29

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Exploring Microenterprise Home Kitchens

R

ecently, the Board of Supervisors voted to support an item that would explore the development of a pilot County program related to Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations (MEHKOs).

The Board’s action directed that the Environmental Health department return in December on establishing a pilot permitting process for MEHKOs including a potential ordinance and framework for allowing MEHKOs moving forward.

The item was jointly brought by Supervisor McPherson and my office. What are MEHKOs and why is the County exploring a pilot program?

What are Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations?

A Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations (MEHKO) as defined under the California Retail Food Code is a food facility that is operated by a resident in a private home where food is stored, handled, and prepared for, and may be served to consumers. It is not a catering operation or a cottage food operation.

In 2018 and 2019, the Legislature adopted Assembly Bill 626 and Assembly Bill 377, which allowed for counties in California, the home of the “farm-totable” movement, to develop MEHKO programs that legalized home-cooking incubators. Those seeking permits are subject to inspection and registration with county health departments, and must prepare, cook and serve food on the same day.

In addition, food must be sold directly to the consumer, not through a wholesaler or other retailer, and may be consumed on site or off site through safe delivery and pick-up methods.

In this way MEHKOs are different from cottage food businesses, which are allowed to sell their goods through a third-party retailer, including traditional

By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District

restaurants, grocery stores or mobile vending vehicles.

While the original enabling legislation limited the number of individual meals prepared each week to 60 and limited the amount of annual gross annual sales for a MEHKO to $50,000, AB 1325 passed by the Legislature and signed by Gov. Newsom in July 2023 expanded the number of meals prepared each week to at most 90, with maximum annual gross sales of $100,000.

Why is the County considering a pathway for MEHKOs? As envisioned by several pieces of enabling state legislation since 2018, as well as experienced through subsequent implementation of ordinances in other counties, Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations provide a legal pathway for community members to prepare and sell food created in their individual kitchens.

Such programs provide an opportunity for county health departments to regulate small, otherwise non-permitted enterprises while allowing home cooks — identified in the state legislation often to be women, immigrants, and people of color — to earn a modest income selling food they have prepared, while offering customers the opportunity to buy home-cooked meals from trusted sources.

With the cost of owning a restaurant or renting space in most commercial kitchens being prohibitively high, developing a MEHKO program in Santa Cruz County would provide home cooks with the opportunity to use their existing kitchens to launch a home-based business that supports families and diversify the local economy.

MEHKO programs have been established in the following counties: Santa Clara, San Mateo, Alameda, San Diego, Riverside, Santa Barbara, Solano, Imperial, Lake and Sierra.

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By developing a local permitting process, our County could benefit from model legislation already in place within those jurisdictions.

The primary goal of a local program would be to ensure that MEHKO participants benefit from food safety training and sell their goods through clean cooking and consumption spaces, rather than operate in an unlicensed manner without safety guidelines.

By directing staff to explore a potential pilot MEHKO program, the Board’s intention is simply to gather more information, including examining model legislation from other counties, looking at the potential economic benefits to historically marginalized communities, and considering impacts on household sanitation systems.

With only a few exceptions among cities statewide that have their own health departments, county health departments are charged through the state legislation with overseeing MEHKO programs throughout an entire county footprint, including within incorporated cities. As part of this process, County’s Environmental Health would include robust outreach to our four incorporated cities -- Scotts Valley, Capitola, Santa Cruz and Watsonville -- as well as development of a bilingual outreach program for potential MEHKO participants.

What are the next steps?

If a pilot program is eventually approved by the Board through the establishment of a local ordinance, it could be

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put in place for two to three years to assess impacts and make adjustments. The item asked for a framework for consideration be brought back to the Board of Supervisors in December.

It’s anticipated that a proposed program would include a fee structure that would cover the costs of staff time to administer the program — creating no impacts to other programs in the County. n ••• As always, I appreciate any feedback you may have on this (or any other County issue).

I’m maintaining regular updates on social media at www.facebook.com/supervisorfriend and you can always call me at 454-2200.

SCCAS Featured Pet

T

Meet Whiskers!

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his gorgeous gal came to the Shelter as an owner surrender because she was being bullied by the other kitty in the home. Whiskers (#A280391) has lived in a home with children under 12 years old, men and women.

Her favorite activities are playing with balls, snuggling, and looking out the window. Her favorite toys are ball toys and balls on tracks. Whiskers has lived indoors only in her previous home and did well. She is a bit of a nervous nelly and is scared of children, dogs and loud noises.

Whisker’s best fit for a home would include a quiet, cat-savvy home where she is the only pet. Once she is comfortable, she is friendly and affectionate.

Whisker’s adoption fee is reduced by $20 thanks to the Laurie Roberts Bogey Fund — a fund to draw adopter’s eyes towards the often overlooked black cats in Shelters. n ••• The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is full of adoptable animals. Fostering animals is an awesome way to improve a Shelter animal’s life and fill your home with love and fun! If you are interested in fostering any kind of animal please email jillian.ganley@ santacruzcounty.us. You can also Follow SCCAS on Instagram and/or Facebook to stay up-to-date on shelter news and where to find adoptable pets around town at breweries, stores and events.

••• Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s full-service, open-admission shelter: 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 Hours: Daily 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. • Website: www.scanimalshelter.org SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182 • After Hours: jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us

CALIFORNIA NEWS

AB 1386: Tenant Referrals for Veterans O n Oct. 11, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1386, which aims to expedite the process to move homeless veterans into supportive housing units.

Many homeless veterans are deemed ineligible for supportive housing services because they receive service benefits that place them outside of restrictive eligibility criteria.

As a result, supportive housing units built specifically for homeless veterans can remain vacant for months while homeless veterans sleep in tents.

The legislation calls for a tenant referral system and a decision with within 30 days.

“It’s unacceptable — and frankly infuriating — that we have homeless veterans sleeping on our streets while units built specifically for them remain empty,” said

Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, D-Encino, who proposed the bill. “We’ve built these units at great cost to taxpayers ... We owe it to these veterans — and to taxpayers and residents — to ensure that we are cutting down on red tape.”

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said, “It is outrageous that some of our unhoused veterans can’t come inside because of financial VA benefits they receive while beds go unused.”

High vacancy rates for veterans’ supportive housing units have become a particularly acute problem in Los Angeles County, which is home to nearly 10% of all homeless veterans in the nation. n ••• California Association of Veteran Service Agencies supported the legislation.

The 1940s © Statepoint Media

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Happy

THANKSGIVING Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude and I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to all of my family, friends and clients, past and present. I truly have been blessed meeting such amazing families, and working with so many exceptional home buyers and home sellers. I wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving, a joyous holiday season and a happy New Year!

Thank you Capitola and Soquel!

AMBER MELENUDO TOP 1% PRODUCING AGENT 831.566.2263 AmberMelenudo.com ambermelenudo@gmail.com DRE 01921098