Capitola celebrates the end of summer with two of its largest events of the year.
First up is the Capitola Art & Wine Festival , a 41-year tradition in Cabitola Village, taking place Saturday and
After learning about John P. Hefti’s award-winning photography at the Soquel High School Senior Awards Night, the Capitola-Soquel Times asked him to submit some of his best photos to share with our readers.
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ELECTION 2024
C apitola C ity C oun C il C andidates Q& a
Gerry Jensen
Age: 55
Occupation: Business owner, general contractor
What are the top issues for the City of Capitola and how would you solve them?
Effective policies must start with strong community engagement and an accountable government.
Margaux Morgan
Age: 37
Occupation: Personal trainer and nutrition counselor
What are the top issues for the City of Capitola and how would you solve them?
Melinda Orbach
Age: 40
Occupation: Family nurse practitioner
What are the top issues for the City of Capitola and how would you solve them?
Enrique Dolmo, Jr.
Age: 49
Occupation: NBMS athletic director, campus security, bus driver and classified union president
What are the top issues for the City of Capitola and how would you solve them?
WTransparency is the cornerstone of good governance, but as I speak with voters, I’m hearing concerns about whether this fundamental principle is being upheld as strongly as it should be. To address this, we must improve the culture at City Hall to ensure that everyone feels welcome, valued, and heard.
A practical step in this direction is having City Council members rotate to hold consistent, weekly community office hours — even as little as four hours a week. This would significantly improve accessibility and open communication between residents and their representatives.
“Gerry Jensen” page 10
Right ow, I think some of the top issues are bike & pedestrian safety. In the last 4 years on Council, we have worked with traffic engineers and city staff to create safer roadways for motorists, bicyclists, pedestrians and the like. There have been traffic-calming implementations at many intersections, including 41st Avenue and Capitola Avenue along with Bay and Hill Street near Nob Hill.
Many of our crosswalks have been upgraded with flashing yellow lights for pedestrians to enter the roadway safely. We will continue to study these changes to see what else may or may not need to be done to improve the roadways.
The state is pushing for more housing with the mandate in the Housing Element to plan for 1,336 new units from 2023 to 2031 but some residents see Capitola as already dense and built out.
“Margaux Morgan” page 12
ithout workforce housing, our local teachers, nurses, police, tradespeople, and service workers are forced to live far away from Capitola and contribute to the traffic problems on our congested local roadways.
We need to streamline the development review process by removing subjectivity and expanding the types of projects that can be approved administratively.
One easy change is to amend our zoning code to allow a Zoning Administrator to approve projects that comply with objective development standards, which would eliminate Planning Commission reviews for most projects and reduce time and costs for applicants.
“Melinda Orbach” page 12
The top issues for the City of Capitola would be supporting our youth, access to housing and public safety. The state is pushing for more housing with the mandate in the Housing Element to plan for 1,336 new units from 2023 to 2031 but some residents see Capitola as already dense and built out. How do you balance conflicting expectations?
I want to make sure that there is enough housing available in Capitola for our teachers, healthcare workers, policemen, firefighters, and other public service workers who work in this community to be able to actually afford to live in this community.
Our schools are losing enrollment, and that’s because families cannot afford to live here.
“Enrique Dolmo Jr.” page 8
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Gerry Jensen
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Enrique Dolmo Jr.
Santa Cruz County Fair: Five Days of Fun
September 11-15
Got the back-to-school blues? The Santa Cruz County Fair is the cure!
The 2024 Santa Cruz County Fair is a one-stop-shop for experiences and entertainment that will take you back in time and transport you to the future!
We’re calling it “Pioneer Days to Modern Ways!”
For the first time ever, the Fair will
feature a drone light show. Each night of the five-day Fair, “Skye Dreams” will amaze fairgoers with 200 drones dancing in the sky above the fairgrounds. It’s an artistic and high-tech experience!
But even as the Fair embraces “modern ways,” it’s always rooted in agriculture. The Ag History Project is an educational opportunity; a place to see how farming was done
in the good old days. And of course, FFA and 4-H students will show off their prize pigs, goats, sheep, cows, rabbits and poultry in the Junior Livestock Auction.
In our Exhibit Halls, come see what your friends and neighbors have created in dozens of categories. Those categories include agriculture, horticulture, livestock, poultry, home arts, amateur wines, fine arts, LEGOs, poetry, youth displays, handspun/handwoven crafts, quilting, photography, floriculture, collections and more!
There is still time to enter the Fair yourself! The 2024 Exhibitor’s Entry Guide is available online at santacruzcountyfair. com. A printed Guide is also available at the Fair Office, 2601 East Lake Ave. (Highway 152) in Watsonville and at local libraries and feed stores throughout the county.
Most online entry deadlines are Aug. 22, including livestock and poultry. Please check the Entry Guide to confirm the deadline and receiving schedule of the specific department you’re entering.
Live musical entertainment this year includes: Antsy McClain, RED — A Taylor Swift Tribute, Escaramuza El Centenario
The Fair also hosts a carnival midway, Monster Trucks and Motocross, magic shows, kids’ shows, horse shows, tractor parades and roving entertainment. Plus, all the savory and sweet fair treats you only get once a year… from funnel cakes and cinnamon rolls to fried artichokes and BBQ kabobs.
“County Fair” page 19
Charra Show with Lola Montes and Los Tiranos Del Norte.
Red: a Taylor Swift Tribute Band
Capitola Art & Wine Festival
September 14 & 15
magine art, wine, music, dance, and good vibes at an enchanting beach-side setting — no need to imagine! The 41st Capitola Art & Wine Festival will take place Sept. 14 and 15 in Capitola Village. Truly a weekend in paradise!
Stroll the Festival sipping exceptional wines from the Santa Cruz Mountains while admiring the artistic talents of over 140 fine artists. Sway to the powerful rock n roll sounds of James Durbin and The Lost Boys, energetic funk from Extra Large, stompin’ bluegrass from Dirty Cello, and Americana soul from Cement Ship.
Enjoy specialties from local food trucks or local restaurants, handcrafted creations in the Local Artisans Marketplace, and be entertained by local dance groups and sleight-of-hand illusions from the Surfing Magician.
Wine tasting is for those 21+. Buy a 2024 Festival Glass ($15) and Tasting Tokens ($1 each). Tasting requires 2-4 tokens, depending on the wine you choose.
Festival admission is free. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
The Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce is your host for this end of summer classic.
Admission is free.
The City of Capitola offers paid parking
for 50 cents an hour at the Beach and Village Parking Lots behind City Hall at 420 Capitola Ave. with a free shuttle to the festival operating 10 a.m. — 8 p.m. weekends through mid-September. Pay stations accept cash, debit cards and credit cards. Meters operate from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
“Art & Wine” page 19
Capitola Beach Festival
September 28 & 29
The Capitola Beach Festival returns on Sept. 28 and 29—and you are invited to two days of activities for you, family, and friends to “celebrate the good times” at Capitola Beach. No charge whatsoever!
Run in the Little 3-Miler from East Cliff Drive to Capitola, build sand castles, play cornhole, join in the scavenger hunt, listen —or dance --to music on the beach. Stay for the lighted nautical parade on
Soquel Creek starting after sunset between 7 and 8 p.m, but stay off the Trestle, because it is unsafe.
That’s the schedule for Saturday.
Stay over for Sunday, so you can try your luck at the fishing derby, paddle board race, listen to ukelele music, play horseshoes on the sand, let your children crate chalk art on the seawall and compete in rowboat racing.
Enjoy local restaurants while in Capitola — you’re sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds.
Remember parking is limited, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk. See all the details in the Official Capitola Summer Festival Program Guide 2024, available throughout Capitola Village.
One new attraction: The historic Capitola Wharf, broken in two by epic storms in 2023, is back better than ever and scheduled for a grand opening at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25. Check out the new art that graces the Wharf privately funded by the all-volunteer Capitola Wharf Enhancement Project.
Local artist Maia Negre created this year’s Capitola Beach Festival poster art, which perfectly captures the heart of Capitola. Come out to play with the Capitola Beach Festival. Join the activities, stop by to watch. All are welcome. n
Art & Wine poster “Venetian Mermaid” by Santa Cruz local Sabrina Aramburu
Sabrina Aramburu displays her art.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Welcome to the Better-than-Ever Capitola Wharf
The City of Capitola welcomes you to the Grand Opening celebration at the Capitola Wharf at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25.
The historic Wharf, first built in 1857, was broken in two in winter storms in 2023 and then was damaged further in storms in 2023.
The city has built back the wharf better than before, with repairs to and replacement of 150 piles, new decking, new railing, utility repairs and new public restrooms carried out by Cushman Contracting.
Visitors will see new amenities such as lighting fixtures, seating, art, an upgraded fish cleaning station, and an enhanced entryway made possible by the communitydriven Capitola Wharf Enhancement Project,
which raised $425,000 to show the Wharf some love.
Funding from the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Foundation made possible informational kiosks for the public to learn about Capitola’s history and natural environment.
The celebration will feature the Capitola mayor, City staff, and community speakers, all of whom are excited to welcome the community back to the Capitola Wharf for years to come!
A live band will provide entertainment, while food trucks and a beer garden will be available for the community to relax, enjoy, dance, and celebrate the Wharf’s new chapter.
For updates, follow the City on Facebook and Instagram. n
SPECIALIZING IN Residential Repaints &
Custom Homes
Homeowners Associations
Property Managers
SUMMER SPECIAL
If we paint your interior and/or exterior by September 31, 2024 we will buy the paint.
County Fair: Apple Pie Contest
Have your apple pie announced as the “Best in Santa Cruz County and the Pajaro Valley” on Wednesday, Sept. 11, at the 47th Annual Apple Pie Baking Contest on the opening day of the Santa Cruz County Fair. Enter by Tuesday, Sept. 3. There is no entry fee.
The Annual Apple Pie Baking Contest, coordinated by the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau, has been held every year since 1977. It is sponsored by the Pajaro Valley apple growers, shippers and related industries.
Entry forms are in the fair’s premium book at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Office, 2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville, online at Welcome to ShoWorks! (fairwire.com) and at the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau, 141 Monte Vista Ave., Watsonville. Judging will commence at noon on opening day, Wednesday, Sept. 11, at Paddy Smith Park at the fairgrounds.
Judges are:
“Pie Contest” page 19
Above, U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley) gets a sneak preview of the Capitola Wharf as he is unable to attend the grand opening.
Ocean Film Festival World Tour Santa Cruz
Supporting Save our Shores
Sept. 7 • 7 p.m., Rio Theatre
At the Ocean Film Festival World Tour, the vision is to inspire you to explore, respect, enjoy, and protect our
Currently touring in Australia, Italy, Spain, New Zealand, Mexico, Brazil, the US and the UK, the Ocean Film Festival World Tour screens over 2 hours of the most inspirational, educational and entertaining films related to the ocean from independent film makers around the world.
A portion of ticket and beer sales will be donated
to Save our Shores. For films and tickets visit https://www.riotheatre.com/events2/2024/9/7/oceasnfilm. n
“Enrique Dolmo Jr.” from page 4
The Housing Element calls for planning 679 housing units at Capitola Mall when redeveloped by the owner, Merlone Geier Partners of San Francisco. Does that sound reasonable to you? Why or why not?
We need more housing units in Capitola so that we can keep families in our schools and make sure that the next generation of citizens can grow up in this town.
What I think would be great for our community is a recreational center in the old sears building.
Only 100 people — 1% of the city population responded to the survey about the 2023-31 Housing Element plan. What strategies would you suggest to increase participation?
Weneed to reach people where they are.
I would post this across social media, and go door to door if necessary to increase participation.
Most working people are too busy to fill out a survey unless someone reaches out to them where they are.
Residents welcome housing for their children, their aging parents and local workers. Would you support establishing those priorities? How? If not, why not?
This is one of the top issues of my campaign- housing for children, families, and local workers is a huge reason I am running. The census estimates that 634 of Capitola’s 5,292 housing units are vacant -- 12%, higher than the 9% in the county. Any idea why? Is this a problem the city should address?
It comes down to cost. Who can afford to live in Capitola with the costs being what they are? Demand is high because this is a
wonderful place to live. But the supply of housing is not high enough. Can you talk about your housing situation? Homeowner or renter? How does that help you relate to your constituents?
Iam lucky enough to have owned a home in Capitola since 2010, but I can definitely relate to people in other housing situations. I was born in Brooklyn, New York, and I moved out here to South San Jose as a child. I know what it is like for families to struggle to pay their rent.
Describe your family situation. Married? Single? Children? Pets?
Iam married to a beautiful local teacher at Soquel Elementary and I have four wonderful children and one cat names Kittykat.
Your favorite spot in Capitola?
How do you spend your free time?
With all the work I do for the Santa Cruz Warriors, for Soquel School District, and for Capitola restaurant of the year Britannia Arms, I don’t have a ton of free time. But when I do, my favorite spot is the New Brighton Middle School gym on Monday nights to play basketball with the community.
How long have you lived in Capitola? What brought you here?
Ihave lived in Capitola for 14 amazing years, and I was brought here by my amazing wife, perfect weather, and a fantastic community.
What prompted you to run?
Idecided to run for City Council after New Brighton Middle School lost a student. At that point, I realized I wanted to do something more to support our local youth and families and keep our community safe. n
Photo Credit: Dean Koopman
Ice Maiden leaving Portland.
SUMMER SPECIAL $2500
IMPLANT
Dr. Kim is a renowned expert in dental implant appearing frequently as a lecturer of live seminars educating other dentists. With thousands of implant cases under his belt, Dr. Kim can help you decide if dental implant is the right solution for you considering your dental and health conditions as well as aesthetic expectations.
“Gerry Jensen” from page 4
I am committed to championing this initiative, along with many other efforts, to strengthen community partnerships.
With these principles in place, we can more effectively tackle the many pressing issues facing Capitola. By focusing our efforts on supporting local businesses, revitalizing community spaces, investing in infrastructure, prioritizing safety, and expanding recreational programs for everyone — youth, families, and seniors alike — we can build a stronger, more resilient community. At the same time, we must address the need for increased housing options, protect our environment, and confront challenges like sea level rise through smart planning.
The state is pushing for more housing with the mandate in the Housing Element to plan for 1,336 new units from 2023 to 2031 but some residents see Capitola as already dense and built out. How do you balance conflicting expectations?
Wecan’t balance expectations without a serious effort in community outreach and education. This hasn’t yet happened. I’d like the city to collaborate with residents by going where people are, not the other way around.
This could include the development of a volunteer housing commission, neighborhood meetings, and diverse communication methods respecting the demands of people’s busy lives.
actions as a Capitola planning commissioner. On a personal level, three of my four daughters (and now my grandchildren) must live elsewhere. This has caused our family to be separated.
Most other families in our area face the same circumstances. Families are the most supportive networks we have, yet this vital support system is strained when housing availability and affordability are so out of balance. We owe it to our community to do better, ensuring that families can remain close and thrive together.
The census estimates that 634 of Capitola’s 5,292 housing units are vacant — 12%, higher than the 9% in the county. Any idea why? Is this a problem the city should address?
Whenwe examine the data more closely, we find something surprising — Capitola has actually experienced a steady decline in second homes since 2010. While second homes contribute to our vacancy rate, they aren’t the only factor.
Homes for sale, rental properties, and seasonal fluctuations also play a role in this number. Before we draw any conclusions, it’s important to analyze all aspects of the data to fully understand the causes of these vacancies. Only then can we determine the most effective ways to address potential issues.
Can you talk about your housing situation?
Homeowner or renter? How does that help you relate to your constituents?
The Housing Element calls for planning 679 housing units at Capitola Mall when redeveloped by the owner, Merlone Geier Partners of San Francisco. Does that sound reasonable to you? Why or why not? There are no proposed plans for mall development at this time, so it’s hard to review the impacts on the surrounding areas.
If designed and developed thoughtfully, the site could integrate housing and economic development while embracing the 15-minute city ideal—a concept where people can live close to their work, accomplish daily tasks within 15 minutes, reduce reliance on cars, ease congestion, and enhance overall quality of life.
Only 100 people — 1% of the city population responded to the survey about the 2023-31 Housing Element plan. What strategies would you suggest to increase participation?
It’s a problem to receive only a 1% response rate. This demonstrates what I’ve said previously: the city’s relationship with its constituents must improve.
When the Capitola Wharf Enhancement Project, which I led, reached out to the community for input on enhancements to the rebuilt wharf, we received over 1,000 responses. This is a direct result of employing multiple communication strategies. One of the simplest and most effective approaches is tapping into trusted messengers within the community to improve participation, yielding better results.
Residents welcome housing for their children, their aging parents and local workers. Would you support establishing those priorities? How? If not, why not? I’ve demonstrated my commitment to expanded housing options through my
My wife, Heather, and I own our home. We recognize how fortunate we are and want to ensure that those who contribute to the vibrancy of our community can flourish and stay connected with their loved ones. Describe your family situation. Married? Single? Children? Pets? I’m married and have four daughters, five grandchildren ages 1 to 3, and two dogs. Your favorite spot in Capitola? How do you spend your free time?
Capitola Beach is my favorite part of Capitola because it so uniquely blends nature, history, local businesses, and community in one space.
How long have you lived in Capitola? What brought you here?
Heather and I lived in Capitola for a decade. We chose to raise our family here because of Capitola’s exceptional quality of life, deep-rooted history of community care, and close-knit, small-town charm. Honoring the legacy of those who came before us, we are dedicated to passing on the very best of Capitola to the next generation. What prompted you to run?
Capitola is more than just where I’ve lived for over a decade. It’s where my heart is. It’s where I’ve raised my family and where I plan to spend my future.
I’m incredibly honored to have received the Make a Difference Award from the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County and to have been named Person of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce. This campaign is my heartfelt promise to keep serving, driven by my love for this place we are all so fortunate to call home.
Contact me anytime at Gerry4Capitola@ gmail.com. n
Dr. Joseph S. Kim, DDS
Craft as a Springboard to Inspiration
Editor’s note: Local author, artist, playwright and baker Joe Ortiz is sharing a new series from his book in progress, “The Great Escape — A Guide to Breakthrough Thinking.”
I’ve heard from many people who don’t think of themselves as creative, yet long to bring more inspiration into their lives. Understanding the methods of working artists can help.
We may think of creativity as a Godgiven talent: if we’re lucky, ideas pop up in our minds; we suddenly see solutions to problems or, say, designs for the garden. But when doubt in that mysterious process creeps in, we may avoid embarking on a project for fear of risking embarrassment or failure.
Practicing artists get around such pitfalls by doing the tough work of honing their craft. For them, failure along the way is part of the challenge. Author Richard Brautigan once called writing short stories an act of “striving for the unattainable” — and that sense of impossibility stoked his process.
Every art form has techniques for inspiring breakthrough moments, and any of us can use them. Paradoxically, the most powerful methods for unleashing creativity often involve adopting the constraints of a formal structure, such as a sonnet in poetry or a fixed chord progression in jazz.
The work of three well-known artists illustrates this approach:
Saxophonist Charlie Parker played scales and riffs on his horn obsessively in a method I call “information overload.”
He practiced in one key for an entire day, his fingertips and his mind’s ear internalizing musical patterns so that in the heat of improvisation he would be able to express them automatically.
Having mastered traditional musical
scales through repetitive practice, he could then explore notes and phrases outside of prescribed forms using the age-old technique of pattern and variation.
Michelangelo’s practice was to “stupidly copy everything.” Like Charlie Parker with his scales, he immersed himself so thoroughly in a seemingly mechanical artistic approach that it ultimately became liberating. His detailed sketches of human anatomy led to intimate knowledge of the human form and the ability to replicate it in marble and paint.
William Shakespeare demands of the sonnet form, with its pre scribed rhyme scheme and metrical pattern, to launch his work in new creative directions.
This sort of enforced “metrical cage,” as it might be called, creates a compulsion to escape, giving birth to sudden flashes of insight that might never have been captured through purely analytical thinking.
What we call inspiration — the mind’s ability to create something original — often arrives when the limiting structures we work with serve to focus or fixate the mind, causing the right brain to break loose into new territory.
By Joe Ortiz
I will explore this approach in future installments, demonstrating how we can “escape” into creative thinking by committing to a form. If we can let go of the notion that inspiration is a blessing that arrives out of the blue, we can learn — through the examples of all kinds of artists — to use the confinements of craft as a springboard to creativity.
What can we do? The next time you write a letter, try a method I call “redrafting.” Instead of line-editing your first draft, re-copy it on a separate piece of paper. The process of rewriting will call up new ideas, reflecting the fact that your mind is constantly in search of new answers.
Or, if you want to draw, get yourself a sketchbook, grab a pencil, and follow Michelangelo’s practice: start copying everything you see.
Reader Response: I’d love to hear your comments and questions. Email me at joe@ gocapitola.com.
“Melinda Orbach” from page 4
We must increase City revenue to provide the services and amenities we want and need, and the future is 41st Avenue, which already generates 83% of the City’s sales tax revenue. The City should allow a wider variety of uses in commercial zones and reduce parking requirements to draw in new businesses.
The City should also aggressively pursue the development of a top-tier hotel and convention center at the northwest corner of Capitola Road and 41st Avenue. Paired with the Capitola Mall redevelopment, this project could generate
“Margaux Morgan” from page 4
How do you balance conflicting expectations?
•
•
Yes, these expectations are extremely daunting. Many factors coming from the State are what contribute to the fact that our Regional Housing Needs Allocation numbers have been increased so significantly this cycle.
As a city we are working on re-zoning areas within our city limits to reflect the possibility of development in order to meet these state-mandated goals. If development ever does arise, the city and our planning commission would be working closely with those developers to ensure proper implementation of such development.
We would want to preserve the quality of life for all residents and see that any further buildings/developments would suit Capitola’s needs and wants.
The Housing Element calls for planning 679 housing units at Capitola Mall when redeveloped by the owner, Merlone Geier Partners of San Francisco. Does that sound reasonable to you? Why or why not?
Ido believe that the plan of 679 housing units at the Capitola Mall is feasible and reasonable.
However, it has taken many years and lots of back and forth with Merlone Geier to actually create a plan that would work for both them and the City of Capitola. So far, no agreement has been met, which is unfortunate.
I, and I think many other residents, would love to see that area be a mixed-use property that would contain housing, local shopping, eating and fun.
Only 100 people — 1% of the city population responded to the survey about the 2023-31
Housing Element plan. What strategies would you suggest to increase participation?
significant TOT tax and provide desirable year-round event space for local and regional gatherings.
The state is pushing for more housing with the mandate in the Housing Element to plan for 1,336 new units from 2023 to 2031 but some residents see Capitola as already dense and built out. How do you balance conflicting expectations?
T he Housing Element is a one-size-fitsall paper exercise, but the reality is that we must produce more housing to accommodate our local workforce, and the new zoning, policies, and programs included in the 6th Cycle Housing Element should hopefully make it easier to produce the
We could increase allowance of ADUs. Possibly create shared housing opportunities within the City utilizing family & work connections.
The census estimates that 634 of Capitola’s 5,292 housing units are vacant — 12%, higher than the 9% in the county. Any idea why? Is this a problem the city should address?
Ibelieve that such a large percentage of housing units are vacant because there are many families who own second homes here. I feel that it is a problem because so many living spaces are going under-utilized when housing has become such a impacted issue in our city.
There has been talk of a “second home tax” or “empty home tax.” I would be very interested to see what that could do for our city.
However, we would have to figure out how to actually monitor the homes. Who would be doing that? Would the tax money be enough to support that? What would the monitoring perameters be?
There’s a lot to explore there. Can you talk about your housing situation? Homeowner or renter? How does that help you relate to your constituents? Describe your family situation. Married? Single? Children? Pets?
Ihave been a homeowner since 2011. I live with my partner and dog. Your favorite spot in Capitola? How do you spend your free time?
My favorite spot is the beach & village. I love walking my dog down riverview every morning, shopping in the local shops & eating at the local restaurants in town while soaking up the sun.
How long have you lived in Capitola? What brought you here?
Ihave loved in Capitola for over 18 years. I went to school at Cabrillo and San Jose State, where I graduated from. What prompted you to run?
Ithink many residents are unsure about what a housing element is and how they can be a part of the plans moving forward. So I believe some education around the topic could be helpful for many.
Residents welcome housing for their children, their aging parents and local workers. Would you support establishing those priorities? How? If not, why not?
Iwould support prioritizing housing for residents’ children, aging parents and/or local workers.
Iwas prompted to run back in 2020 because going through COVID was a really tough time for this community and I wanted to be involved in our comeback.
Being a resident and now a Council member gives me great pride in Capitola and I wanted to find a way to be a bigger part of the community and gain more relationships with community members. n
The key to making additional housing work in our community is mitigating the impacts by doing things like providing more reliable public transportation and new active transportation options like rail trail Segment 10.
The Housing Element calls for planning 679 housing units at Capitola Mall when redeveloped by the owner, Merlone Geier Partners of San Francisco. Does that sound reasonable to you?
Why or why not?
Reasonable or not, new state housing laws have removed most local control over residential development.
For example, if Merlone Geier were to submit a development application for a 25-story building with 1,000 housing units today, they could do so under builder’s remedy and the City would have no say because we don’t have a certified Housing Element. This is critical for people to understand when discussing local land use controls.
To ensure that projects are designed well, quality of life is maintained, and negative impacts are minimized, City staff must be proactive, flexible, and creative problem-solvers and engage with property owners and developers throughout the development review process.
Only 100 people — 1% of the city population responded to the survey about the
2023-31 Housing Element plan. What strategies would you suggest to increase participation?
The Housing Element requirements are incredibly prescriptive. No one wants to hear this, but cities are forced to tell HCD what they want to hear if they want to get their Housing Elements certified, no matter what local residents think.
If they don’t, they open themselves up to terrible projects under builder’s remedy and lose access to valuable funding opportunities. I would focus on increasing participation in other planning efforts, such as the Cliff Drive Resiliency Project, through targeted social media campaigns and outreach events.
Residents welcome housing for their children, their aging parents and local workers. Would you support establishing those priorities? How? If not, why not?
Absolutely. I support streamlining development approvals, supporting affordable projects with in-lieu funds, and incentivizing high-density mixed-use projects along 41st Avenue.
I am also endorsed by Santa Cruz YIMBY (Yes In My BackYard).
The census estimates that 634 of Capitola’s 5,292 housing units are vacant — 12%, higher than the 9% in the county. Any idea why? Is this a problem the city should address?
Capitola has always been a coastal resort town, but now investors are buying up
homes with the intent of using them as short-term rental income properties.
Enforcement of short-term rentals is nearly impossible for a small city staff like Capitola’s, so the solution to our lack of workforce housing options for our yearround residents is to build more housing. Can you talk about your housing situation? Homeowner or renter? How does that help you relate to your constituents?
With family assistance, my husband and I were lucky enough to buy a two-bedroom condo for us and our daughter in Capitola in 2017.
Since then, we have watched housing prices and interest rates rise to a level that has priced most working families out of our local community.
We also had two more children, so we are outgrowing our two-bedroom condo. Like most working families in Capitola, we are trapped in our current living situation until home prices and interest rates drop or we move out of the area.
Describe your family situation.
Married? Single? Children? Pets? I am married with three children (8, 6, and 2).
Your favorite spot in Capitola?
How do you spend your free time?
Cliff Drive overlooking the wharf, Capitola Beach, and Capitola Village. We walk down to events in the Village pulling our kids in a wagon, and I love looking out over all of Monterey Bay and seeing
the changing colors and conditions of the ocean, the surfers, sailboats, fisherman, etc. It’s a wonderful reminder of why I chose to live here.
How long have you lived in Capitola? What brought you here?
I have lived in Capitola since April 2017 (7.5 years). I relocated from Oakland to be with my husband and raise my family in the beautiful and safe community of Capitola.
What prompted you to run?
I believe action is the antidote to despair and that civic engagement is a form of self-care. When women are in leadership positions, we see more collaboration, compassion, connection, and community. I believe women should be in every space and in every conversation where important decisions are made.
I want to represent the historically underrepresented West side of Capitola. I strongly believe in representative democracy, where different lived experiences are valued and heard, and I believe that positive change happens when we create policies that are inclusive and represent the needs of diverse groups of people. If elected,
I will fight for policies and programs that will improve the physical and economic health and wellbeing of this community, drawing from my experiences as a working mother, health care provider, and union steward. n
FEMA Out of Money
Federal Agencies Owe $140 Million for Disaster Response
By Jondi Gumz
FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which owes the County of Santa Cruz millions for disaster response and infrastructure repairs, has run out of money for disaster relief.
FEMA and the Federal Highway Administration together owe the county $144 million.
FEMAis required to make monthly reports to Congress.
The Aug. 7 report filed by FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell with the leaders of the appropriations committees of the House and Senate shows the red ink on page 17.
This report covers spending through July 31, listing the many federally declared disasters — not just wildfires and winter storms in California, but also wildfires in Hawaii, flooding in Texas, Tennessee, and West Virginia, and hurricanes.
Congress appropriated $20,261 billion for FEMA’s disaster relief fund.
FEMA announced that it would only fund life-saving disaster response, not permanent repair work, until further notice.
For Santa Cruz County, this means FEMA will not give money to any repair projects for the 2017, 2020, 2022, 2023 or 2024 federal disaster events until Congress gives the Disaster Relief Fund more money.
Unless Congress appropriates more money for FEMA, this funding source county officials had counted on is something that can’t be counted on.
Although President Joe Biden, visiting damage in Capitola Village in January 2023, said, “We are not leaving until you build back and build back better,” that won’t be possible unless Congress provides the money.
Supervisor Manu Koenig shared in his newsletter to constituents: 7 projects that the County was mobilizing to complete this year are now on pause: Stetson Road, two on Redwood Drive, Bean Creek Road, Schulties Road, Mt Charlie Road (a 2023 slipout, not the large one from earlier this year), and Lockhart Gulch.
He pointed out that projects on designated federal highways, like Redwood Lodge,
Administration.
County supervisors opted to borrow money while waiting for FEMA reimbursements, so without Congressional support, the county’s borrowing will be longer than expected, which could lead to cutbacks in other areas to compensate.
Koenig expects longer wait times for the County to get paid back for the repairs that have already been completed, like the Main Street bridge repair in Soquel.
He added, “The 100+ sites already repaired have cost tens of millions of dollars. The longer it takes for FEMA to pay the County back, the more interest we’ll have to pay with local tax dollars.”
On Aug. 13, county supervisors unanimously agreed to send a formal request from the County to Congress, requesting that they fully fund FEMA so the County can get repaid and permanent repairs can continue. n
Read FEMA’s report at https://www.fema. gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_ocfoaugust2024disasterrelieffundreport.pdf
Valencia Road and North Rodeo Gulch are unaffected as they are funded through a different account — the Federal Highway
Gov. Gavin Newsom tours Capitola Village after the 2023 winter storms.
Gov. Newsom points out issues in Capitola to President Joe Biden when they visited after the 2023 winter storms.
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The Photography of John P. Hefti
After learning about John P. Hefti’s awardwinning photography at the Soquel High School Senior Awards Night, the Capitola-Soquel Times asked him to submit some of his best photos to share with our readers.
Here are his photos, how he got started and his future plans:
My name is John P. Hefti and I have been doing photography for almost 3 years.
I was inspired to delve into sports photography by so many people, most notably of which being Soquel High digital media arts teacher Marco Lucadano and my parents.
They all have given me so much support and guidance throughout my journey, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.
This eventually led to an internship with Lookout Santa Cruz, where I’ve had the life changing opportunity to be mentored by Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist Kevin Painchaud.
As I realized that I wanted to pursue photography professionally, I did my best to get my name out there by emailing front office employees and asking if I could have a credential to photograph games.
Because of Kevin and Lookout, my dream of photographing my first MLB game came true before I even became an adult. I’ll treasure the experiences that came from the events I was sent out to cover for the rest of my life.
After high school, I plan on attending the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque.
I plan on getting a master’s degree or PhD in American studies, with a minor in photojournalism.
In the future, I hope to end up as the team photographer for the Washington Nationals, due to the fact I love baseball and American history. n
Photo Credit: @johnp.hefti on instagram
ABOVE: San Jose Giants infielder Charlie Szykowny
BOTTOM LEFT: Soquel High Quarterback Sam Whelan
BOTTOM RIGHT: Los Angeles Dodgers Designated Hitter Shohei Ohtani
Soquel High basketball player Christian Deans
ABOVE: Egret
LEFT: Cabrillo Collge pitcher Anders Paige-Roth BELOW: Banner Island Ballpark
Santa Cruz Warriors guard Javan Johnson shoots over Sioux City Skyforce player Orlando Robinson
New York Yankee outfielder Aaron Judge
Capitola’s Measure Y Sales Tax on Nov. 5 Ballot
By Jondi Gumz
When City of Capitola employees negotiated pay raises, the city asked a consultant to do a salary comparison study.
The finding: Capitola employees were paid below the median.
With retail sales tax eroding when adjusted for inflation, and a quarter-cent sales tax due to expire Dec. 31, 2027, the city faced a challenge.
The solution is on the Nov. 5 ballot in Capitola: Measure Y, asking voters to replace the quarter-cent sales tax with a one-half of one cent sales tax through Dec. 31, 2034.
The current sales tax is 9%. With the increase, it would be 9.25%. The city estimates a family spending $8,200 on taxed items would pay $20 more a year.
Passage requires a majority of votes: 50% plus 1.
Measure Y has no organized opposition — no one has filed a ballot argument against it.
“Unfortunately, the cost of living is huge here,” said Officer Aron Quolas, president of the Capitola Police Association, who grew up in Live Oak and joined the Capitola Police Department eight years ago.
He said Capitola officers are commuting from San Benito County and Watsonville, facing a lot of traffic to get to work.
He would like Capitola salaries to be at the median, the midpoint.
Ryan Heron, union rep for LIUNA 792, which represents Capitola’s public works, recreation employees, planners, and nonsworn
police staff, said, “They don’t make a living wage.”
The contract agreed to is counting on voters approving this sales tax increase, he said.
All five City Council members endorse Measure Y, with the goal to bring city salaries to the median.
Endorsements also came from council hopefuls Gerry Jensen and Melinda Orbach.
The city estimates Measure Y will generate $2.2 million per year, through 2034. The money will go into the general fund, which gives the city flexibility to secure $8 million in federal funds to stabilize Cliff Drive from erosion, and invest in parks, streets and recreation.
Councilman Joe Clarke noted the existing quarter-cent sales tax is the lowest in Santa Cruz County.
Former mayor Michael Termini pointed out that the city did what it promised, rebuilding the wharf, restoring the flume and jetty and buying a loader for beach maintenance.
He added that 80% of the sales taxes are paid by visitors to Capitola, with residents paying 20%.
The prior sales tax, Measure F, passed in 2016 with 81% voting yes.
If Measure Y does not pass, Measure F, the quarter-cent sales tax, will continue until it expires in 2027.
Tourism is the top industry in Capitola, a small city with 10,000 residents.
Paradise Beach Grill hosted the campaign kickoff, providing its space on the Capitola Beach Esplanade without charge, and the Crow’s Nest provided tasty bites for attendees, who were encouraged to sign up to help walk neighborhoods and take home a sign of support. n
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ELECTION 2024
s e C ond d istri C t s upervisor C andidates Q& a
Kristen Brown
Age: 37
Occupation: Vice President of Government Relations, Silicon Valley Leadership Group; Capitola mayor, two-term Capitola City Council member
This year, the grand jury found the county has chronically underfunded road maintenance, such as roads become increasingly unsafe, and recommended the supervisors increase annual public works funding to improve at least one local road segment with a rating of less than 40 out of 100 in each supervisorial district. The grand jury also found the CSA 90D assessment, which funds 25% of road maintenance, has not been changed since inception in 1983. These flat assessments are $56.40 on improved properties and $28.20 on unimproved properties in the unincorporated areas. If elected, how would you address these issues?
With multiple years of service on the Regional Transportation Commission, currently as Chair, I have a deep understanding of transportation funding and have supported millions in road repairs. With more unincorporated roads in District 2 than in any other district, the incoming Supervisor will need to tackle the road repair backlog head-on.
We should first determine where the CSA 9D funds are being spent and then consider reallocations as necessary. Additionally, we should consider what, if any, changes could be made to CSA 9D in order to generate additional revenue.
In terms of the high-cost beneficiary patients, the Grand Jury report specifically notes that we can’t determine why we rank so high among counties with so many high-cost beneficiary patients because the Behavioral Health Department lacks the staff to perform a root-cause analysis. Solving the problem of our 30% vacancy rate can assist in solving the puzzle of the high-cost beneficiary patient numbers.
I seek to enhance recruitment and retention through fair wages and benefits, professional development opportunities and internal promotions.
This year, the grand jury investigated county Personnel Department practices and recommended a public dashboard with timeto-hire and vacancy rates and difficult-to-fill positions. The grand jury also recommended conducting a salary comparison with nearby counties where former employees now work and obtaining a costbenefit analysis of the current hiring practices vs.using a countywide integrated human resources software platform. If elected, how would you address these issues?
Based on the sources provided in the Grand Jury report, any increase in the CSA 9D assessment would require a vote of the residents.
Finally, I will work to enhance transparency and accountability through regular road repair progress updates, and seek additional funding sources such as state and federal grants to address ongoing transportation infrastructure challenges.
This year, the grand jury investigated county Behavioral Health Services, which addresses mental health and substance use, and recommended collecting outcomes data, evaluate behavioral health contractors based on outcomes and look into why Santa Cruz ranks high among counties for high-cost beneficiary patients, people with approved claims exceeding $30,000. The grand jury noted the staff vacancy rate is 30%. If elected, how would you address these issues?
Iagree with the Grand Jury’s recommendations regarding the collection and analysis of outcome data to evaluate the effectiveness of both county programs and contractors. With a tight County budget and competing needs for resources, I will work to ensure that we fund services that deliver tangible results and improve patient care.
I am an advocate of both transparency and data-driven decision making. For those reasons, I would support a public dashboard of time-to-hire, vacancy rates, and difficult-to-fill positions. This would not only demonstrate the depth of the issue, but also allow an opportunity to show growth and improvement as it is made.
I also agree with the recommendation of performing a cost-benefit analysis around the potential use of an integrated HR software platform. If the analysis showed that a new platform could increase efficiency and support, but not replace, current employees in the County’s Personnel department, then I would push for its implementation.
The 2024 Point in Time count found 1,850 homeless individuals in Santa Cruz County, up from 1,804 a year ago. The mayor of Aurora, Colorado, visited homeless encampments there and concluded the “housing first” policy without providing addiction recovery programs and career counseling does not reduce homelessness. If elected, how would you address this issue?
Irecently participated in a Local Solutions to Homelessness Working Group in Washington, D.C., where we discussed the “housing first” model and other strategies to address homelessness.
“Kristen Brown” page 22
Kim De Serpa
Age: 57
Occupation: Medical Social Worker
This year, the grand jury found the county has chronically underfunded road maintenance, such as roads become increasingly unsafe, and recommended the supervisors increase annual public works funding to improve at least one local road segment with a rating of less than 40 out of 100 in each supervisorial district. The grand jury also found the CSA 90D assessment, which funds 25% of road maintenance, has not been changed since inception in 1983. These flat assessments are $56.40 on improved properties and $28.20 on unimproved properties in the unincorporated areas. If elected, how would you address these issues?
Ithank the grand jury for their investigation of this critical issue. I’ve been meeting with neighbors all over District 2, and many of their roads have not been resurfaced in more than 50 years. Our infrastructure has been neglected for too long. We need to reevaluate the CSA 90D assessment. However, any assessment changes must be done transparently, with input from the community.
I will prioritize securing additional resources for road repairs and work with fellow lawmakers to update legislation to reflect the need for rural counties to have an ongoing and reliable source of road maintenance funding. I will work with staff and the board to ensure we focus on the most critical areas.
to provide equity in South County. I have attempted to access behavioral health services for vulnerable people, and it is challenging. I believe we have high claims in our county because we are sending youth outside the county for care and have many gravely disabled people who need psychiatric placement or prolonged hospitalization. The state is moving services to a prevention model, which will help.
This year, the grand jury investigated county Personnel Department practices and recommended a public dashboard with time-to-hire and vacancy rates and difficult-to-fill positions. The grand jury also recommended conducting a salary comparison with nearby counties where former employees now work and obtaining a cost-benefit analysis of the current hiring practices vs. using a countywide integrated human resources software platform. If elected, how would you address these issues?
If elected, I would explore the possibility of workforce housing on county property to recruit and retain a skilled and qualified workforce. We need to incentivize people to choose Santa Cruz County as an employer. Workers could live in low-cost housing and save money to be able to buy their first home after their stay.
I look forward to Measure K bringing revenue for road repair, but unfortunately, it was embargoed due to a pending lawsuit. I’ll fight to make sure D2 gets our fair share!
This year, the grand jury investigated county Behavioral Health Services, which addresses mental health and substance use, and recommended collecting outcomes data, evaluate behavioral health contractors based on outcomes and look into why Santa Cruz ranks high among counties for high-cost beneficiary patients, people with approved claims exceeding $30,000. The grand jury noted the staff vacancy rate is 30%. If elected, how would you address these issues?
Ahigh employee vacancy rate, lack of outcome tracking, and lack of equity in serving people in South County are concerning. As a social worker, I have the education and experience to evaluate and provide support for these programs. I know how difficult it is to attract Psychiatrists, Psychologists, and Social Workers due to our high cost-of-living.
The county could build a workforce by becoming an intern site. Workforce housing could be considered to recruit and retain quality employees. We must find solutions
Counties often compete against each other for a limited pool of candidates; Santa Cruz County can’t compete due to its limited revenue in property taxes-only 11 cents on the dollar compared to neighboring counties, which receive much more. Additionally, those counties have higher populations and higher sales tax revenue, so their budgets are much bigger, and they can pay higher salaries.
Our county could do a better job recruiting, but I believe the main problem is developing more revenue locally and finding affordable housing.
The 2024 Point in Time count found 1,850 homeless individuals in Santa Cruz County, up from 1,804 a year ago. The mayor of Aurora, Colorado, visited homeless encampments there and concluded the “housing first” policy without providing addiction recovery programs and career counseling does not reduce homelessness. If elected, how would you address this issue?
In Santa Cruz County, 122 individuals died on the streets in 2023. We have many people who are gravely disabled by their mental health and/or substance use disorder and often need serious medical care and or psychiatric or skilled nursing placement, all very costly.
“Kim De Serpa” page 22
Kristen Brown Kim De Serpa
Woman of the Year Leslie Conner
When it came time for Sen. John Laird to select the 2024 Woman of the Year, his choice is a trailblazer who made a difference for health care in Santa Cruz County.
She is Leslie Conner, who retired in December as CEO of the nonprofit Santa Cruz Community Health after serving in that role since 2011.
During her tenure, she championed —
“Pie Contest” from page 7
Erica Padilla-Chavez, CEO, Second Harvest Food Bank
Jake Mann, Five Mile Orchards
Judie Block, Reporter, Times Publishing Group
David Sanford, Ag Commissioner, Santa Cruz County
There are three divisions:
• Youth – 17 years-of-age and under
• Adult – 18 years-of-age and over
“County Fair” from page 5
Now that we’ve convinced you to come have fun at the Fair, we also want to offer you some awesome deals that will save you time and money! Pre-sale tickets and ticket packages are available now! Pre-sale tickets cost less than tickets at the gate. And special packages include deals on admission, parking and carnival wristbands. Buying pre-sale carnival wristbands saves $5!
New this year, carpool to the Fair with your family, neighbors and friends! Fill your car with 5 or more people and park for FREE!
“Art & Wine” from page 6
Parking is limited in the village so park your car at the Capitola Mall and ride the free shuttle, which ends at 8 p.m. Saturday and 7 p.m. Sunday.
with Laura Marcus of Dientes and MidPen Housing — a campus with a medical clinic, a dental clinic and 57 affordable rentals at an underused property at 1510 Capitola Road in Live Oak.
After years of planning, that dream became a reality: Bienstar Plaza. The third and final part of the project — the housing — opened in May.
Conner invested 25 years in building up the local health care sector.
She guided Santa Cruz Community Health to gain status as a Federally Qualified Health Center, generating federal funds to provide care to underserved areas, expanded into Live Oak and San Lorenzo Valley, led implementation of the Affordable Care Act and made it through the Covid-19 pandemic.
Santa Cruz Community Health’s three clinics provide primary care, behavioral health, pediatrics, health and pregnancy programs, acupuncture and chiropractic care to 12,000 patients.
Before joining Santa Cruz Community Health, Conner directed the Healthy Kids program at the Health Improvement Partnership of Santa Cruz County and cochaired the California Children’s Health Initiatives.
Before that, she was development director at Dientes Community Dental Care. She has a master’s in public health from Columbia University. n
See the recognition at https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=CgqY0l_GA34
• Masters – anyone who has won 1st, 2nd place in the Adult Division.
Prizes : Each division has First Place–$50, Second Place–$40, and Third Place–$30 plus Best of Show–$75. Each winner will also be awarded a corresponding ribbon.
Submit Entry Forms online at www. santacruzcountyfair.com, or mail entries to the Santa Cruz County Fair office: 2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville, postmarked no later than 11:59 p.m. Sept. 3. n
Monster Truck and Motocross tickets are also available online now.
To buy tickets and packages online, visit https://tickets.santacruzcountyfair.com/p/ tickets
Pre-sale tickets are also available at the Fair Office: 2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville. If tickets are purchased at the Fair Office, there are no additional fees. There is a convenience fee to use the online ticket portal. Pre-sale ticket prices will be available through Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 11:59 p.m.
All the nostalgia and excitement of “Pioneer Days to Modern Ways” awaits you at the Santa Cruz County Fair, Sept. 11-15! n
Or ride your bike — valet parking is staffed by Harbor High students and free at the David Lyng Real Estate parking lot.
For details, look for the 64-page 2024 Officials Capitola Summer Festivals Program with beautiful poster, “Venetian Mermaid” by Santa Cruz local Sabrina Aramburu on the cover. n More info at www.capitolaartandwine.com
Leslie Conner, with her husband Ian McRae (left), accepts Woman of the Year recognition from Sen. John Laird.
Groundbreaking for Floral County Park Playground in Pleasure Point
On Aug. 12, the County of Santa Cruz Department of Parks, Open Space and Cultural Services, with County Park Friends and Supervisor Manu Koenig, joined in a groundbreaking ceremony at Floral County Park for a new play structure and installation of rubberized surfacing to replace the sometimes hard-to-navigate sand.
County Park Friends raised $275,000 for the project at 656 38th Ave. after Pleasure Point resident Derek Draper, father of three sons, initiated the campaign and contacted Parks staff.
Parks hosted community design sessions, conducted surveys and outreach and then designed the playground replacement with the input from the community.
“Parks is excited to once again partner with County Park Friends; we have a long-standing relationship and reputation of doing great projects together. With the help and support of Supervisor Koenig, it is great to see Floral receive upgrades that will continue to serve a diverse group of park visitors for generations to come,” said Parks Deputy Director Rebecca Hurley.
In June 2023, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the additional funding for upgrades and improvements. Under direction from District 1 Supervisor Manu Koenig, the County is contributing an additional $100,000 to the project.
“Floral Park is a fantastic community asset,” Koenig said “This upgraded,
ocean-themed play structure will provide a safe place for families and neighbors. It’s a great use of our Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) revenues. I’m incredibly grateful to the residents who kicked off the fundraising effort for this project, and everyone who chipped in to make it happen.”
“Improvements at Floral County Park are happening, thanks to amazing community members who stepped forward to advocate and fundraise. This project is a perfect example of what neighbors can do to improve places we hold dear and build a better future for all!” said County
Park Friends Executive Director Mariah Roberts.
The installation of rubberized surfacing will help make the play area more accessible to individuals of all ability levels.
The park improvements are expected to be completed in fall 2024. n
Chris Clark Appointed Sheriff, Succeeding Jim Hart
By Jondi Gumz
When Santa Cruz County Sheriff
Jim Hart retires on Dec. 6 after 10 years, Undersheriff Chris Clark will succeed him.
County supervisors appoint the sheriff, and on Tuesday, Aug. 27, the vote was unanimous.
Peter Gelblum of Boulder Creek objected because the next election for sheriff is in 2028. He wanted a process where anyone could apply and the public could give input.
Hart, who promoted Clark to undersheriff, recommended Clark as his successor. Clark also had support from the Santa Cruz Sheriff’s Correctional Officers Association.
Supervisors Zach Friend and Bruce McPherson put forth the agenda item to appoint Clark for the rest of Hart’s term, which ends Jan. 8, 2029.
They wanted to ensure a smooth transition.
Hart, a native of Santa Cruz County, started his career as a deputy sheriff in 1988 and held every rank in the office before being elected sheriff in June 2014. He was re-elected in 2018 and 2022.
Under his leadership, the office navigated seven federally declared disasters, the line of duty death of Sgt. Damon Gutzwiller and the Covid-19 pandemic. Crime rates in the County’s unincorporated areas are at a record low, less than half the state average, which Sheriff Hart attributes to his expansion of effective community policing. Hart partnered with the Criminal Justice Council of Santa Cruz County to create a new Inspector General position and became the first sheriff in California to implement “21st Century Policing,” which led to improved
transparency, trust and community relations.
When his retirement was announced on the Sheriff’s Facebook page, it got 100+ positive comments. One woman urged Hart to have a happy retirement and called on the state Legislature to change laws that help a domestic abuse predator and do nothing for the woman being abused.
Friend and McPherson told their colleagues, “Our offices have worked closely with Undersheriff Clark our entire time in office and have found him to be very responsive, thoughtful and forward-thinking. He played an integral role in the County’s response to the CZU fires and floods has always available for any public safety-related requests that came from our constituents.”
They added, “His background, beyond his two decades in local law enforcement, should serve him well for the remainder of Sheriff Hart’s term. He grew up in a military family, was born overseas and lived in multiple countries and multiple states before settling in Santa Cruz County after college with his wife and family and then joining the Sheriff’s Office. It’s clear those early experiences with different cultures and ideologies has shaped his approach to policing. He has held leadership roles across the spectrum at the Sheriff’s Office and became a reassuring presence giving nightly briefings during the CZU fires and, more recently, during the floods.”
Clark oversees the Administration Bureau, which includes professional standards and conduct, media relations, personnel and training, records, warrants, crime analysis, civil, payroll/fiscal management, forensic services and computer technology. n
Derek Draper and sons, Mariah Roberts (County Park Friends), Rebecca Hurley (deputy parks director, Santa Cruz County), Supervisor Manu Koenig and daughter Charlotte, Richard Novak and Tricia Proctor (Novak Foundation) kick off the Floral Park playground replacement with shovels.
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New Career Pipeline: Dental Assisting Apprenticeship
By Jondi Gumz
ARegistered dental assistant is paid $27 per hour by the nonprofit Dientes. This career is in high demand, with 600 jobs open annually in the Tri-County area.
The Santa Cruz County Office of Edu cation has been offering a traditional training program, which means fulfilling hours, paying a $6,000 fee and completing an unpaid externship to get experience.
Now the county Office of Education has an attractive new option: A dental assisting apprenticeship program, based on compe tency of skills, with a paid internship and no fees to pay.
The program is a partnership between the county Office of Education and Dientes, and leaders of those organizations are enthusiastic.
When the state offered apprenticeship grants, Dientes led by Laura Marcus was eager to be the industry partner.
Launched with $1.02 million in state funds over three years, the program is under way with eight students in the inaugural cohort.
One of them, Wendy Camberos, 19, of Santa Cruz, was studying at Cabrillo College, thinking of pursuing law enforcement.
assisting by her orthodontist, Dr. Nancy Leung, of Aptos.
“I love my smile,” said Camberos, who wore braces for two years.
Now she wants to help others feel good about their smiles, too.
Stephanie Villa-Lopez, the program coordinator, was hired to create the program under a $120,000 state planning grant.
She said the first eight students are a mix: Recent high school graduates, Cabrillo
“Kim De Serpa” from page 18
Using a preventative “housing first” model alongside supportive case management is effective and should continue.
Deferring implementation of SB 43 was a mistake our Board of Supervisors made recently.
This new law was designed to help conserve people who are gravely disabled by their mental health or substance use disorder.
break from school. Others are on the waitlist for Cabrillo College’s dental hygienist program.
After students in the apprenticeship program finish five weeks of daily classroom instruction, they are placed in local dental offices, working four days a week, 32 hours, and getting paid, with one day in the classroom.
“Dental Pipeline” page 26
5 Election
7: In-person voting at two locations
21: Last day to register to vote and get voter guide mailed to you www.votescount.santacruzcountyca.gov
Under SB 43, people who are conserved would be placed in a state facility to have their medical, psychiatric, or substance abuse needs met over a long period of time.
“Kristen Brown” from page 18
We explored systemic issues like the lack of affordable housing and individual factors such as mental illness, substance abuse, and job losses.
I am an advocate of solutions to homelessness that include providing immediate housing (“housing first”) with low barriers to entry, along with addiction recovery, mental health support, and job training.
This issue is society’s failure to protect the most vulnerable among us, and we must act to care for people who cannot adequately care for themselves. n
The County’s collaboration with local community-based organizations will be crucial to delivering both housing and services.
For long-term stability, however, we need to incentivize and streamline the process of developing deeply affordable housing and renew our focus on homelessness prevention in a County where 75% of the unhoused population were County residents before becoming unhoused. n
Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz
Wendy Camberos, future dental assistant.
Too Much Luggage? Lighten Up
If you think you’re carrying too much luggage on your next trip, I’ve got news for you: You probably are.
How much? Well, last year domestic airlines collected $7.1 billion in luggage fees, an increase of almost 5% from the previous year. This summer, we’ve also had a few high-profile baggage altercations, including a Texas mom who was booted off a United Airlines flight because she was carrying too much luggage.
But to really understand how far it’s gone, you have to watch your fellow tourists.
• In Interlaken, Switzerland, I witnessed crowds of Korean tourists dragging oversized wheeled luggage down the cobblestone streets.
• In Rio de Janeiro, I saw Argentines and Chileans unapologetically loaded down with shopping bags. All that has to get on the plane when they go back home, and it does.
• In Bangkok, I saw Chinese visitors wheel enormous rollaboards through the shopping malls. Think of all those excess baggage fees!
“People are packing more,” says Sangeeta Sadarangani, CEO of Crossing Travel, an international luxury travel agency. She’s seen her fellow travelers carry more recently and tries to talk her clients into embracing a minimalist packing philosophy. It’s not easy. What are the reasons behind the overpacking epidemic? And how can you ensure you don’t get stuck with an extra luggage fee? Why are you Overpacking?
There are several reasons for the overpacking epidemic, ranging from insecurity to inexperience. But we need to get over it quickly. A few months ago, all of the major domestic airlines raised their baggage fees. On domestic flights, a checked bag may cost upward of $35, and more if you wait until the last minute or your bag is overweight.
By Christopher Elliott
runs Couture Trips, a travel agency. “Travel can be overwhelming, especially for novices. The mindset of ‘I just might need this’ leads to those bulging suitcases.”
She says travelers should remember they will likely be able to buy reasonable substitutes for their forgotten or missing items wherever they go.
Inexperience
Face it, most people only travel a few times a year and they don’t know how to pack a bag correctly — or even what to put in it.
So what’s behind the overpacking problem?
What If?
At the core of the overpacking is the question “What if?,” says Jeremy Murchland. He ought to know. As the president of the travel insurance company Seven Corners, he deals in what-ifs every day. He says travelers are asking themselves, What if there’s a heat wave and I don’t have the right clothes? What if the Airbnb doesn’t have shampoo? What if I get bored?” And that’s driving them to bring more -- even if they don’t need it.
Stress
Overpacking is often a stress response to leaving home,” says Susan Sherren, who
Limor Decter, a travel advisor for Embark Collective, said she used to put everything but the kitchen sink in her checked luggage. “The consequences were a huge schlep factor and a long wait at the dreaded luggage carousel,” she says.
Finally, she learned to cut back to a carryon only, and it was a life-changing experience for her, making a recent trip to Botswana far smoother than it would have otherwise been.
“Had I checked luggage, I know for sure that my bags would’ve been delayed or lost,” she says.
At least those are the excuses we give each other. But as I said, we urgently need some packing therapy because this is one problem that could cost us dearly. I mean $7.1 billion -- that’s a lot of luggage.
How to Pack Better
Don’t want to add a $35 contribution to the billion-dollar checked luggage business?
Here are a few pointers:
• Be a Minimalist
You know the old saying, less is more? Definitely true when you’re packing. You can take a few easy steps toward packing less. Pack clothes that are versatile and can be mixed and matched.
Leave 20% of your bag free when you pack, so you have room for anything you buy at your destination, advises Joe Cronin, CEO of International Citizens Insurance.
Leave any items you can easily buy at your location, like an umbrella. Consider doing laundry at your location instead of packing a change of clothes for every day of your trip. “You can get your laundry done at your hotel,” says Cronin.
• Adjust Expectations
If you’re traveling somewhere to be seen, maybe you should reconsider, says Swapna Patel, a professional stylist. She says she knows clients who pack blow dryers in their checked baggage. “You should have realistic goals about how you want to spend time on your vacation,” she says. “Are you making memories — or perfecting your blow dry?”
Once you start to think about that, you realize how little you need, and you can easily pack a manageable amount of clothes and cosmetics.
• Make a List
Frequent traveler and etiquette expert Rachel Wagner is a devout minimalist. She uses a checklist to ensure she packs only the essentials. “It helps prevent overpacking and also allows me to check off important items I don’t want to leave behind,” she says.
After a while, you know what needs to stay and what needs to go, so the list becomes part of your routine.
If you Overpack Ihear confessions from people who take too much with them every day. They’re people like Sally Greenberg, who runs a nonprofit in Washington.
“I have a problem overpacking,” she admitted to me. “I’m neurotic.” For her, it’s mostly a “what if” issue -- she doesn’t want to miss anything she might need.
But it’s OK, because I spent years as a neurotic over-packer and I found my way out. After evaluating almost every available bag on the market, I found the perfect combination: The Victorinox Airox carry-on and a Knack Travel Backpack 45L. I travel with four changes of clothes and use laundry facilities at my destination.
Getting to that point was really difficult. Like Greenberg, I was afraid I would miss something. Then I realized they have drug stores and shopping malls where I’m going, and I needed to relax about my luggage.
I know my airline is unhappy about it, but my bank account is happy with all the money I’ve saved by not checking a bag. 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 Aren Elliott
New Library Chief Starts Work
On July 8, a new director started work at the Santa Cruz Public Libraries, 10 branches including Aptos, Capitola and Scotts Valley. He is Christopher Platt, who spent six years as Mono County library director.
His salary is $200,000; he was granted up to $10,000 in a moving allowance and he can accrue 120 hours of vacation a year.
He started his career at Baker & Taylor, then shifted to the Queens Library, New York Public Library as collection director, then BookOps, the technical services of the New York Public Library, then oversaw library branches across the Bronx, Manhattan and Staten Island, and oversaw 88 neighborhood libraries for the system, including customer experience, adult education and youth education and programming.
In an announcement, City Manager Matt Huffaker welcomed Platt, saying, “His demonstrated leadership and dedication to community engagement make him an ideal candidate for the role of Library Director. I am confident that under his guidance, our staff and libraries will continue to thrive and serve as vibrant hubs of learning and discovery for our residents.”
He has a master’s degree in librarianship from the University of Washington Seattle.
On June 6, he was selected to succeed Yolande Wilburn by the city managers who serve as the Joint Powers Authority board.
The Santa Cruz library director is a city of Santa Cruz employee, receiving the same benefits as other city executives and is
considered a department head, hiring and supervising library employees, preparing the library budget and overseeing services to meet community needs.
In his prior roles, Platt oversaw geographically diverse library locations, fostered collaborations within the library
community, and advocated for libraries to fostering a civil society.
He also has a background in library administration, budgeting, collection management, reader’s advisory, and staff training.
The big project ahead is to build a new library branch in downtown Santa Cruz, replacing a facility that was deemed obsolete, and taking advantage of the new site to provide 124 units of affordable rentals, three floors of parking spaces, child care, bike lockers and e-bike charging and a roof deck.
This project was launched when voters in June 2016 approved Measure S, providing $67 million to build or remodel the library branches. New libraries were built in Capitola, Aptos, and Felton; remodels took place in La Selva Beach, Scotts Valley and Boulder Creek, Branciforte, Garfield Park and Live Oak.
“Santa Cruz County’s communities have invested significantly in local libraries over the past decade, reinforcing their role as important, valued community resources,” Platt said. “I am truly excited to join the team at Santa Cruz Public Libraries and look forward to collaborating with library colleagues and community stakeholders to continue to shape and deliver exceptional library services for all of our community members.” n
Capitola leaders have come together to endorse Kim De Serpa for 2nd District Supervisor, citing her extensive experience in public service, nonprofit leadership, and her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Santa Cruz County residents.
“Kim’s experience in education, healthcare, and stewardship gives us confidence that she will bring excellent skills to the table, and pull together all parts of the community to improve government services,” said Gayle Ortiz, the owner of Gayle’s Bakery and Rosticceria.
Nels Westman, longtime Capitola resident, continued, “Kim will be great for Capitola because she’s a really genuine person, and she really listens to her constituents.”
“I have known Kim De Serpa for over 14 years. She is a woman of integrity and advocates and works for people from the youngest to the oldest. She will be a great Supervisor,” said Mary Gaukel Forster, CASA Advocate, K-12 educator and Capitola resident.
“I’m grateful for the support from so many of Capitola’s leaders. I will represent all the residents of the 2nd District to improve the lives of all who call this beautiful place home,” said Kim De Serpa, candidate for Supervisor in the 2nd District.
Christopher Platt
Road Woes: North Rodeo Gulch
Jerome Garcia responds to the article
“How are Your Roads in Soquel?” published in the August 2024 Capitola Soquel Time with photos of N. Rodeo Gulch Road in Soquel.
He writes: “The answer is bad and getting worse. I have attached 3 photos that show 3 failures that are close together and just covered rather than repaired. They show a failure starting, another progressing, and the third swallowing about half the road.
What they don’t show is the pavement on the other side of the road is also starting to fail which is going to be a problem for vehicles of low clearance.
“This is just a small sample of extensive road failure all along North Rodeo Gulch Road. In front of our home at 3100, there is at least 100 feet of road where a significant amount of road is now in the creek which can vary between about 3 and 10 feet deep. In several places, big chunks about 2 feet wide of road underlayment have broken off over the last few years further undermining the strength of the road.
“All of these problems are going to be really expensive to fix in the future if they are not addressed soon. They also are increasing the probability of problems during emergencies.” n
3rd
Annual Health Fair
Hosted by Park Avenue Fitness
September 21, 2024 • 12-3 p.m.
Connect with our local wellness community and access your next level of health and vitality! Meet face-to-face with local health and wellness practitioners from multiple disciplines who can help you get in tune with your body, mind, and spirit.
Connect with our local wellness community and access your next level of health and vitality! Meet face-to-face with local health and wellness practitioners from multiple disciplines who can help you get in tune with your body, mind, and spirit
Don’t Miss Our Raffle!
Raffle tickets are $10 each, all proceeds benefit the Second Harvest Food Bank
mkdoyle@parkavenuefitness
Labor, Gratitude, Autumn & Spiritual Approach
September 2024
Autumn is quickly approaching, with its many festivals and celebrations of light. It’s only weeks now till the autumn equinox, another summer passing, another season approaching. Notice the word “approach”, as in Spiritual Approach, one of the Laws of the Aquarian Age. To “approach” means to “come closer.” The new Laws and Principles of the new Aquarian era, invites each of us to approach each other not in the old ways of separation, judgement, criticism and intolerance, but with knowledge of our essential spiritual divinity.
At each new age, humanity is given new guidelines. The Aquarian Age has six guidelines (Laws & Principles) to follow. One is “Spiritual Approach” which is studied from August 21 to October 21st Spiritual Approach invites us to approach each other with love. For it is love that brings all earthly karma to an end.
By Risa D’Angeles
this past year and their effects. Retrogrades are times of reflection and review.
Monday, September 2nd is both a new moon (Virgo) and Labor Day. Labor Day – how do we best approach this day? We contemplate upon our labors and the labors of those around us. We offer our gratitude to all kingdoms (human, animal, plant, mineral) who labor daily for our well-being. This is their “approach” to us. Let us show our gratitude.
The Virgo new moon is a solar festival (11 degrees). Virgo is the world mother. She is Ceres watching over her daughter, Persephone, in the gardens of the earth, lest Pluto take her underground.
Mercury (in Leo) is no longer retrograde. However, it’s still progressing through its retrograde shadow ‘til mid-September. Uranus, planet of shaking things up, turning things topsy-turvy with sudden upsets, stations retrograde September 1st at 27 degrees Taurus. During Uranus retrograde we look back on changes encountered
ARIES
There may be that tug-of-war in all interactions - with intimates, close family, partners and friends. A new creative cycle begins in all relationships. Love will be needed by and for everyone. Love heals karma. You can help this occur by offering a sense of freedom to others, the result of unconditional love. With children, freedom is offered through loving discipline and intelligent structure. What Montessori is all about. A question for you to ask yourself is, ”How can I love more?”
TAURUS
It will soon be time to begin a new cycle of planning, new structure and new goals concerning your health, daily work and interactions with co-workers. Each day, it seems there’s a change, a shift or emergency. Adaptation is needed. It’s important to know and acknowledge that everyone is always in service. Speak often of this so everyone understands. New skills will be developed as new opportunities come forth. Family resources need tending.
GEMINI
Jupiter shining brightly in your house of self-identity, calls you to greater self-expression along with “being more careful of love than of everything.” Consciously offering goodwill and radiating love helps prepare everyone around you for an unexpected future. Mercury, your very own planet, turns direct soon. You (and everyone) have assumed Virgo qualities during this retrograde, pondering upon things deeply, especially how you communicate. Now you must communicate creatively, with love and wisdom, all that you learned in the retrograde.
CANCER
You ponder upon the past, on home and family, partners and parents. You remember early childhood years and wonder if there was love enough for you to thrive. You ponder upon your way of life and ask yourself what you are doing where you presently live and if you are to expand and/or move from there. Needing a more abundant foundation, you want to live, work and garden in a true community. You need a gate to walk through, a sense of leadership to lead with and rose bushes blooming all around.
A lunar eclipse occurs at the Virgo solar festival (full moon), Tuesday, September 17th. Eclipse season has begun. A lunar eclipse informs humanity that things in the outer world, having completed their purpose, have or will disappear. We know what areas of life this occurs in when we consult our astrology charts. Does everyone have their chart?
And so, autumn begins the following Sunday, September 22nd as the Sun enters Libra, sign of deep, abiding, loving I/Thou relationships. n
LEO
What surroundings and environments you live in daily need tending? Walk through the rooms of your home to see what care, repairs and upkeep are needed. Be in touch with siblings, family and relatives, creating a deeper level of communication. Write a family newsletter. Did you speak with your angels on your birthday? If not, each moment is always the right time to do so. They want to help you navigate the new Aquarian times to come and direct you to the Raincloud of Knowable Things. What part would you want to play in creating the new era?
VIRGO
If you listen quietly to your heart and soul and observe carefully your values and events in daily life, you will realize much has changed over the past months and years. You are different now. You no longer maintain previous thoughts and beliefs. You grew up and thus outgrew them. Your values will eventually expand too into greater and more responsible levels of harmony and these you will radiate towards all and everyone. You always seek to serve. Step more closely towards the Path of Return. Sow flower and apples seeds along the way.
LIBRA
Something is occurring in your beliefs, in the way you think and also in your physical body. Perhaps it’s a health discipline that will change the shape of your body. Perhaps it’s your self-image where you begin to value yourself more and begin to understand your childhood experiences and their purpose within the family. Perhaps you’re forced to adopt newer stricter disciplines to maintain a better quality of life. Whatever is changing, it’s good and loving and purposeful. You are always thought of, cared for and forgiven.
SCORPIO
Things in your life are being gathered into a profuse, abundant, generous and bountiful harvest. Perhaps the result of great needs, loss, sorrows or death. Perhaps it’s from a realization of all you’ve accomplished and knowing all there is yet to do. Perhaps it’s a gathering of gifts offered to those in need. Compassion is beginning to open your heart. You realize life isn’t a movie or film or novel. It’s real life and you play the leading role and this life determines your next... an interesting and most benevolent meditative thought to ponder!
SAGITTARIUS
You may soon find yourself going to and fro, here and there, up and down between old and new. Between previous hopes, wishes and dreams, and fleetingly new ones. The latter will appear slowly over time. Some already have. You will also consider what goals, ambitions and views of the world are important to keep and what to change. You realize you need a new group to work with, new like-minded people, creating a new future that better defines your new self. Balance, work with and tend to finances with the utmost care.
CAPRICORN
In the public eye you are a rarity, a curiosity, a marvel, a wonder, as well as a person of many gifts and talents. Sometimes you’re not quite fully understood. You bring both a special force of love and humor and stability to all that you do in the world. A new cycle, an expansion begins in your work, profession, and who you are in the world. There will be more responsibilities, more tasks but also more praise, recognition, perhaps a promotion. Allow your intuition to come forth more and more. Intuition is our true guide.
AQUARIUS
There are many possibilities for Aquarians to consider in the coming months based upon their states of conscious awareness. Influenced by a new cycle of learning and possible teaching, what is ahead is a long and adventurous journey. For some, it’s the building of a new era community. For all Aquarians, a wider view of reality emerges and this propels you into new areas of work and a different daily life. One you hoped for.
PISCES
It’s good to begin to eliminate what is unnecessary in your life, especially what has not been used in the past many months. This will allow newer, finer energies and resources, infinite and abundant, more appropriate to the coming times, to be available. Be prepared for unexpected changes, shifts and losses. But this has been occurring for a while now and you have become somewhat adaptable. Take Ignatia Amara (homeopath) for grief. Carbo Veg for digestion and learn the hand mudras.
“Dental Pipeline” from page 22
The pay is $18.45 per hour, increasing to $19.37 once students have mastered half the required skills, up to $27 once registered.
“It is accelerated,” said Denise GuerraSanson, executive director of career and adult learning services for those 18 and older. So students must be willing to make the commitment.
The instructor, Debbie Martinez of Watsonville, discovered the Regional Occupation Program dental assisting class in 1993 when a friend took it.
She got a job before she graduated, and a year later attain the “registered” status.
“I fell in love with dentistry,” she said.
Dental patients often have more interaction with the dental assistant than the dentist, and Martinez said, “I love showing what I know.”
She said her employer, Dr. Lindy Bixby in Capitola, taught her a lot in the 12 years she worked for her.
Now Martinez is a full-time instructor.
For Sheree Storm, chief strategy officer at Dientes, this is a way to establish a “robust pipeline” of dental assistants for its four locations.
Dientes also offers its staff a stipend to be a mentor to new dental assistants.
“We’re excited to grow this pipeline,” Storm said, noting Dientes has a residency program for new dentists with New York University Langone Dental Medicine, which has resulted in a couple of hires by Dientes.
Guerra-Sanson wants to scale up the dental assisting apprenticeships.
That means signing up more private practice dentists to participate.
Currently the County Office of Education is offering both the traditional program and the apprenticeship, and Guerra-Sanson would like to switch to all apprenticeships.
She thanked Dientes, saying, “The partnership with Dientes is outstanding.” n
To learn more about the dental assisting apprenticeship program go to https://dental. santacruzcoe.org/
Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz
Debbie Martinez, dental assistant instructor.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
ANNOUNCEMENTS
COUNTY CALLS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE 14 TO 24
The County of Santa Cruz is seeking teens and young adults ages 14 to 24 who have a passion for making a difference in their community to serve on the County’s first Youth Advisory Task Force.
As part of the “A Santa Cruz County Like Me” project related to achieving diverse and inclusive advisory bodies, the Task Force will be comprised of 15 teens and young adults selected from a broad spectrum of backgrounds and perspectives.
Participants will hold monthly facilitated meetings throughout the Santa Cruz County to learn about County boards, commissions, committees, and department advisory groups; identify the needs and concerns of teens and young adults; explore models of youth engagement in other jurisdictions; and weigh the advantages and disadvantages of various approaches and proposals.
The Task Force will meet for the first time in October and work together to make findings and recommendations. The County Administrative Office will then return to the Board of Supervisors with any recommendations based on the work of the Task Force.
Participants must live or work in Santa Cruz County and will have the option to receive a $75 stipend per meeting or earn community service hours. They must be able to attend monthly meetings in various locations throughout Santa Cruz County. Bus passes will be provided to help with transportation to and from meetings.
Applications to join the Youth Advisory Task Force must be submitted by Sept. 20 at https://tinyurl.com/YouthAdvisoryTaskForce
SOQUEL HIGH 50TH REUNION
Soquel High Class of 1974 will have its 50th reunion 5-11 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5 at the Santa Cruz Dream Inn, West Cliff Drive.
Organizers are Penny Alvarez Stinson, Sharon Crawford Caiocca, Deanna DelBianco Lindgren, Ed Jenkins and Dave Ponza.
Tickets are $130 per person. Registration deadline is Sept. 13 at https://www.soquelhigh1974.com/ class_index.cfm
NOV. 5 ELECTION: IMPORTANT DATES
Sept. 26: First day to mail County Voter Information Guides.
Oct. 7: First day to mail ballots to all Santa Cruz County registered voters. In-person voting open at two locations.
Oct. 21: Last day to register to vote for the November 2024 election and receive a ballot and voter guide in the mail.
Oct. 26: Three more in-person voting locations open.
Nov. 2: Thirteen more in-person voting locations open.
Nov. 5: Election Day – polls open at 7am and close at 8pm. Nov. 12: Vote by mail ballots postmarked on or before Election Day and received by Nov. 12 will be counted.
Dec. 3: Last day to certify election results.
POLL WORKERS NEEDED
Poll workers are needed for the Nov. 5 election.
Poll workers set up and close polling places, help voters understand their rights and protect the integrity of ballots and voting equipment. To volunteer locally, contact the County Elections Department, 831-454-2060. Or www. votescount.us.
To serve as a poll worker, individuals must be a United States citizen or legal permanent resident and attend a training session.
High School students can serve as poll workers as long as they are:
• A United States citizen or legal permanent resident.
• At least 16 years old on Election Day.
• Attend a public or private high school.
• Have at least a 2.5 grade point average.
• Get permission from their parents and school.
• Attend a training session.
The last day to register to vote for the Nov. 5 election is Oct. 21.
Have a virtual or live event you want to promote?
E-mail info (no PDFs please) to info@cyber-times.com For beginning of the month, due the 15th • For mid-month, due the 1st
SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK WALL OF HOPE
The Wall of Hope is designed to support Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County’s mission of alleviating hunger in our community.
Tiles range from $700 to $2,000. Proceeds support Second Harvest and will be viewed by visitors to the food bank for years to come.
The Wall of Hope is located on the patio, just outside Second Harvest’s main entrance. The tiles will be previewed at the Party in the Parking Lot event.
For more information, contact Michele Bassi at (831) 288-3002 or e-mail michele@thefoodbank.org
Tiles can be purchased at https://give.thefoodbank.org/ campaigns/32191-wall-of-hope.
SANTA CRUZ SHAKESPEARE
skills needed to apply for an apprenticeship program in various trades.
After the classroom training, you may participate in a 4-week paid internship with construction industry employers in Monterey/Santa Cruz county areas.
This experience leads tocareer pathways for: Heat and Frost Insulators, Boilermakers, Bricklayers, Electricians, Elevator Constructors, Iron Workers, Plasterers and Cement Masons, Painters, Roofers, Sheet Metal Workers, Plumbers and Pipe Fitters, Carpenters, Operating Engineers, Laborers, Teamsters
Apply at https://www.apprenticeprep.org/
LIVE YOUR DREAM
SCLERODERMA SUPPORT GROUP
The Scleroderma Foundation of California announces a new support group for people living in Monterey and Santa Cruz counties.
The Monterey Bay Support Group will bring together individuals with scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis, a rare autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and thickening of the skin and other areas of the body.
The support group will be led by volunteers Cheri O’Neil of Live Oak and Annette Rahn of Carmel. The mission of the Scleroderma Foundation of California is to empower patients to live better lives through programs dedicated to support, education, and research.
The support group will start by offering virtual meetings, with the goal of meeting monthly in person at a location convenient for members.
To learn more, email mbsclero@gmail.com. The foundation’s website is www.myscleroderma.org.
SOROPTIMISTS
RENT CHAIRS AT SHAKESPEARE
Santa Cruz Shakespeare, a nationally recognized professional repertory theater, will offer Shakespeare’s As You Like It & Hamlet, Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest and Tennessee Williams’ The Glass Menagerie through Sept. 28 under the trees and stars in the Audrey Stanley Grove (The Grove) at Santa Cruz’s DeLaveaga Park. Showtime is 8 p.m.
The Glass Menagerie, directed by Charles Pasternak, opens at 8 p.m. Sept. 13.
Ticket prices range from $20 to $70 at www.santacruzshakespeare.org.
BUILDING TRADES PRE-APPRENTICESHIP
Are you interested in a career in the building trades? Building trades jobs are a pathway to good paying jobs and benefits.
You can start your journey of securing a job in the various building trades by participating in the pre-apprenticeship training program, a collaboration between the Monterey County Workforce Development Board and the Monterey/ Santa Cruz Counties Building and Construction Trades Council.
The program is a Mon – Fri, 8 hour a day, 9-week/350hour training program. Upon completion of the pre-apprenticeship training program, you will obtain the
Soroptimist International of Capitola-by-the-Sea has launched its search for applicants for its 2025 “Live Your Dream” awards.
Women who are enrolled in or have been accepted into a bachelor’s or a technical training program, are heads of their households and have a demonstrated need are eligible to apply.
Each winner will receive a cash award that may be used to pay for anything they need to help them complete their educational program such as food, rent, car repairs, child care and health care. The Club typically gives five awards to local women.
Therese Malachowski, Live Your Dream program chair, said, “Our winners are typically single moms who want to be able to support themselves and their children and know that a good education makes that possible.”
Deadline to apply is Nov. 15. Applications will be at www.soroptimist.org — click on the “Live Your Dream” logo and review the eligibility requirements and application instructions.
Winners will be announced in January 2025 and an awards ceremony will be in March.
Soroptimist International of Capitola-by-the-Sea is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to education and training to achieve economic empowerment. See www.best4women.org.
ANIMAL SHELTER SEEKS VOLUNTEERS
Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is seeking volunteers for a clinic hosted by Planned Pethood and Animal Balance to provide 200 animals with low-cost spay/neuter surgeries and other services Nov. 15-17 at the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s “annex” at 2260 7th Ave.
The Animal Shelter needs 10-12 volunteers each day of the event from 8 a.m. until 5-6 p.m. Half-day shifts may be available. The Shelter needs agile, active folks comfortable working with animals and who can focus well in a busy environment. A positive attitude and teamwork skills are a must.
Bilingual volunteers and those with veterinary or animal experience are especially encouraged to sign up, but all will be provided necessary training.
Volunteers who are not already shelter volunteers should sign up by contacting the Animal Shelter’s Volunteer Coordinator Megan Carroll, at 831-454-7209 or megan.carroll@santacruzcountyca.gov.
Ideally, volunteers would sign up for the same position multiple days in a row to minimize training needs, but this is not a requirement.
Volunteers must provide their own transportation and parking will be limited.
Soroptimist International of Capitola-by-the-Sea is renting cushions, beach chairs and blankets on cold nights at all 67 Santa Cruz Shakespeare shows in the Audrey Stanley Grove in Delaveaga Park, 501 Upper Park Road, Santa Cruz, which runs through Sept. 28.
Potential members or others interested in learning more about the Club’s work and activities are invited to visit the rental booth and talk to a member.
Proceeds from the booth are the Club’s major fundraiser and a portion is shared with SCS.
Email sicapitola.by.the.sea@gmail.com
WOMENCARE NEEDS VOLUNTEERS
WomenCare, a nonprofit dedicated to providing free support services to women diagnosed with cancer in Santa Cruz County, needs volunteers. Ways to help: Transportation Assistance (greatest need!): Drive clients to and from their medical appointments, locally and throughout the Bay Area.
Errand Running: Assist with everyday tasks, such as grocery shopping and picking up prescriptions. Office Assistance (4 hour shift per week): Support clients on the telephone, resource referral for clients, work on special projects, and help with general maintenance of services.
Friends Committee: Help organize the annual Strike Out Against Cancer bowling fundraiser, create annual appeals, assist in other community fundraisers that benefit WomenCare, and help with community outreach. A cancer diagnosis often results in transportation and logistical challenges. By volunteering, you help alleviate these burdens, allowing local women to focus on their treatment and recovery. Your support ensures that no woman faces cancer alone.
Learn more and fill out an application at https://fsa-cc. org/womencare/volunteer/ Reach out by calling the office 831-457-2273 or email sims.p@ fsa-cc.org
COUNTY FAIR BOARD MEETINGS
The Santa Cruz County Fair Board will meet each month in 2024 except September and November. Remaining dates are Oct. 22, and Dec. 3. There is no meeting in September or November. Meetings typically begin at 1:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday in the Heritage Building at the fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Blvd., Watsonville. For agendas, posted 10 days in advance, see santacruzcountyfair. com
ONGOING EVENTS
Ongoing thru September 29
EXHIBIT: TIES THAT BIND
M.K. Contemporary Art, 703 Front St., Santa Cruz
M.K. Contemporary Art presents Ties that Bind featuring the work of 26 talented local Santa Cruz artists. Each artist is part of a creative couple, united in both their art and their lives.
Exhibiting : Wendy Aikin, Jody Alexander, IB Bayo, Rachel Clark, Tim Craighead, Linda Craighead, Marc D’Estout, Ian Everard, r.r. Jones, Robin Kandel, Bo Kvenild, Terrie Kvenild, Claire Lerner, Jasper Marino, Will Marino, Ann Morhauser, Gayle Ortiz, Joe Ortiz, Beverly Rayner, Taylor Reinhold, Paul Roehl, Beth Shields, Judy Stabile, Lynne Todaro, Margitta Dietrick Welsh, and Stan Welsh.
First Friday Reception Sept. 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. and an artist talk Sunday, Sept. 15, from 4 to 6 p.m.
Mondays
BRIDGE CLUB
10:30 a.m.-Noon, 7695 Soquel Dr, Aptos, CA 95003
The Aptos Branch Library will host Bridge Club sessions on Mondays (except holidays).
Bridge Club is a partnership between Santa Cruz County Parks and Santa Cruz Public Libraries.
Register at scparks.com or in-person the day of the event.
Last Wednesdays of the Month
PARENT/CAREGIVER MENTAL HEALTH SEMINARS
5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Online Meeting
Dr. Ramona Friedman of the Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health in Soquel will be hosting a free Parent Drop-in Zoom session. Parents and caregivers are invited to log on and ask questions to Dr. Friedman about youth mental health issues, challenges, and ideas.
Parent Drop-Ins are free, 1-hour sessions where parents can seek guidance from experts specializing in specific mental health disorders. Parents can also connect with others facing similar challenges.
Clinical psychologists who specialize in anxiety, depression, eating disorders, suicidality, and medication, experienced youth mental health experts, host each session. For more info, visit https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/groups/ parent-drop-in-soquel-ca/247794
Second and Fourth Saturdays
SOQUEL HOMESTEADERS MARKET
11 a.m.-3 p.m., 2505 and 2525 South Main St. parking lots Soquel Homesteaders Markets is in the parking lots across from Soquel business’s Beer 30, Sunny Side Produce, Buzzo Wood Fired Pizza, and Carpo’s.
It will be active through Dec. 14.
DATED EVENTS
Saturday August 31
FREE FISHING DAY
There’s one last chance this year to cast your line into a California river, lake or bay without a fishing license.
On Free Fishing Day the public can fish throughout the state with no fishing license required, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Children 15 and younger can fish for free every day of the year in California, but Free Fishing Days offer a time when families and friends can experience the hobby together.
Saturday September 7
HORSEMEN’S ASSOCIATION OPEN HOUSE
10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Graham Hill Showgrounds, 1251 Graham Hill Road, Santa Cruz
If you’ve never seen a horse close up, here is your chance.
The Santa Cruz County Horsemen’s Association will host an open house at the Graham Hill Showgrounds.
The association is opening the showgrounds to the community to showcase the magic of horses. There will be demonstrations, opportunities to meet a variety of equines, an even enter a hobby horse race!
The schedule: 10 am, Hannah Francis from Free Spirit Stable, building a better relationship with your horse, 11 am, California Cowgirls Drill Team, noon, Parade of Breeds, 1 pm, jumping exhibition.
There also will be face painting, vendors, and a food truck.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
IDENTITY: ASIAN AMERICAN PACIFIC ISLANDER
On Display Thru Sunday September 22
Pajaro Valley Arts Gallery: Open Wednesday-Sunday: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., 37 Sudden St., Watsonville Curated by Reiko Michisaki and Maggie Yee, this exhibition is an exploration of identity through the viewpoint of 11 Asian American and Pacific Islander artists.
From traditional forms to contemporary expressions, these artists offer unique perspectives, inviting you to ponder the complexities of culture, heritage, and self-discovery.
Participating artists include Edward Corpus, Pablo Cubangbang, Terry Ebersole, Dan Fallorina, Sahar Jabr, Lucien Kubo, Reiko Michisaki, Ann Miya, Dawn Nakanishi, Maha Jumaié Taitåno, and Maggie Yee.
Upcoming Events
Poetry Reading & Artist Talk with Shirley Ancheta: Sunday, Sept. 8, 2-4 p.m., Pajaro Valley Arts Gallery.
Participating artists: Dan Fallorina, Maha Taitano, Sahar Jabr, Dawn Nakanishi & Lucien Kubo. Above: Old Memories, Young Hopes • by Maggie Yee
Don’t miss this chance to experience the passion, joy, and centeredness that horses can bring to people’s lives.
The Health Improvement Partnership of Santa Cruz County invites the community to its Community Forum, celebrating 20 years of collaboration, at Seascape Golf Club. Register at https://www.hipscc.org/hip-community-forum-2024
In 2004, the founders of HIP had a vision to foster collaboration over competition.
The event will be a journey through HIP’s past, present, and future, featuring community awards, a panel of HIP’s founding members, Eleanor Rittman, Alan McKay, and Donna Ramos, facilitated by Keisha Browder, chief executive officer of United Way Santa Cruz, and Maritza Lara, executive director of HIP.
of Asylum Access Ecuador, a legal clinic for refugees that later scaled to Asia, and Africa, and did direct advocacy at the United Nations in Geneva. She also supported the association of families of disappeared children in El Salvador, and communities at risk of development-induced displacement in Thailand, Cambodia, and India.
“Our partners and community input are integral to maintaining the flame our founders ignited, Join us in celebrating HIP!” said Lara. “Together, we will revisit the organization’s past, explore its present state, and reflect on how we might continue to weave a healthy community.”
Saturday September 14
COMMON ROOTS FARM’S FAMILY FUN DAY
1-4 p.m., Common Roots Farm, 301 Golf Club Drive, Santa Cruz Common Roots Farm will host a Family Fun Day with the Banana Slug String Band, pony rides, food, drinks, and vendors.
Tickets are $10 per person or $25 for a family of four at www. commonrootsfarm.org/familyfunday
Friday September 20
MOVIES AT THE BEACH: SHARK TALE
The City of Capitola Art & Cultural Commission hosts the final 2024 Movies at the Beach, a family-friendly event offered free thanks to the support from sponsors. Movies were shown through the summer on a large screen on the bandstand in Esplanade Park next to Capitola Beach. Bring blankets and low back chairs. No dogs or alcohol please. The movie starts at dusk.
GOURMET GRAZING ON THE GREEN Noon – 4 p.m., Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Road
Gourmet Grazing on the Green, a fundraiser by the Santa Cruz Cancer Benefit Group will be at Aptos Village Park.
This is the ultimate foodie festival, 60+ local wineries, restaurants and breweries — and live music! Experience the talents of some of Santa Cruz’s best chefs and taste specialty creations, using locally grown produce and products donated by sponsors Coke Farms and Watsonville Coast Produce. Live music on the main stage by Cooper Street.
Santa Cruz Cancer Benefit Group is a nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life for people living with cancer in the Santa Cruz community, raising community consciousness and providing financial support Hospice of Santa Cruz County, Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Services, Katz Cancer Resource Center, WomenCare cancer advocacy, researchers from the University of California at Santa Cruz and the Teen Kitchen Project.
Over the last two decades, SCCBG has distributed more than $2.5 million to directly support the Santa Cruz community. Tickets are $90 through Oct. 4 at https://www.sccbg.org/ gourmetgrazingonthegreen or $120 at the door.
CENTRAL COAST GOOD FIRE FAIR
10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Felton Fire Advisor Barb Satink Wolfson announces the first Central Coast Good Fire Fair at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.
Activities include:
Kid zone • Learn how to safely build, tend and extinguish a campfire • Watch live burns of piles and redwood understory at Henry Cowell State Park (likely between 11 am-1 pm) • Food trucks Pana and S&B (Sandwiches & Burgers) • Booths and educational demonstrations • Learn how to make your home more resilient to wildfire • Test your fire knowledge and win door prizes! This is a public event and State Parks vehicle parking fees of $10 will apply unless you walk or bike.
Sunday October 6
ITAMAR ZORMAN & ALON GOLDSTEIN INCONCERT 4 p.m., Peace United Church, 900 High St., Santa Cruz
Michelle Arevalo-Carpenter, executive director of strategy and content at SOCAP Global, systems change catalyzer, and expert convener from South America, will deliver a keynote highlighting the role reciprocity plays in creating shared possibilities for a healthier community. A social impact investor, she has expertise in movement building, enabling grassroots organizations to scale their impact. She was the founding country director
Michelle ArevaloCarpenter
Wednesday September 18
CHAMBER LUNCHEON WITH SEN. LAIRD & SUPERVISOR CANDIDATES
11:30 a.m.–1p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Drive, Aptos. Aptos Chamber of Commerce will host a luncheon with Senator John Laird and 2nd District Supervisor candidates Kristen Brown & Kim De Serpa at Seascape Golf Club.
The fee: $35 per person. Reservations required. Call 831-688-1467.
The Distinguished Artists Concert Foundation presents its 39th season beginning with violinist Itamar Zorman and pianist Alon Goldstein at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6, at Peace United Church, 900 High St., Santa Cruz. The program includes pieces from Back, Partita, Ravel and selections from West Side Story by Bernstein Alon Goldstein is one of the most original and sensitive artists of his generation, admired for his musical intelligence and dynamic personality. His artistic vision and innovative programming have made him a favorite with audiences and critics alike throughout the United States, Europe, and Israel.
Itamar Zorman won the Borletti-Buitoni Trust Award for 2014, the 2013 Avery Fisher Career Grant, and the 2011 International Tchaikovsky Competition in Russia. Tickets are $40 online at http://www.distinguishedartists.org/ or pay what you can at the door. n
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Farewell & Thank You to General Manager Ron Duncan
In his 21 years with Soquel Creek Water District, Ron Duncan has been integral to the District’s transformation from a water provider into a recycled water purification / groundwater replenishment / water delivery agency. Now, upon his retirement from the District at the end of September, Ron modestly notes that, “It’s been quite a journey!”
Ron’s tireless efforts at each stage of his journey at the District – from Conservation Coordinator to Conservation Manager to General Manager – have become the very foundation supporting that transformation which was necessary to preserve and enhance the District’s sole source of water.
“When I started here, my role was all about working with the community to use less water,” says Ron. “I quickly found out that there was, and is, an extraordinary water conservation ethic among the customers we serve. It’s very gratifying that by engaging with this community, sharing understanding and knowledge about water issues, and providing tools for saving water, they achieved a remarkable level of conservation — today one of the lowest per-capita water use levels in the state.”
Ron’s early conservation work at the District was highly effective, but it was just the beginning of the journey. As General Manager, his key focus became identifying and implementing a supplemental water supply to replenish the overdrafted groundwater basin. That developed into the Pure Water Soquel Groundwater Replenishment/ Seawater Intrusion Prevention Project, to purify and reuse treated wastewater. And, it connects back to his earlier work – after all, he says, “What is water reuse, but the highest level of water conservation!”
With Pure Water Soquel now nearing completion, Ron looks back at his journey with gratitude to the District and the people with whom he worked and collaborated.
He points out, “The essence of achieving Pure Water Soquel is really the strategic partnerships and the cooperation among the
many agencies involved. Combined with, of course, the work of our visionary Board of Directors and wonderful, talented staff. It’s been a privilege to work with so many intelligent, dedicated people at every level here at the District, to bring this remarkable project to the community, while carrying on with our core service of water delivery.”
Along with his Board of Directors and his staff, Ron successfully navigated the complex issues involved with Pure Water Soquel – ranging from social, technical, and political matters to financial, legal, environmental, and many other areas. How did they do it? Ron says that it’s all about the people.
“Collaboration and building consensus among individuals, the agencies and entities involved, local businesses, and many other groups,” he says. “I like to say my job has had a lot of building bridges and mending fences! Without a high level of cooperative effort at every level, Pure Water Soquel may not have happened - or it certainly would’ve been much more difficult to achieve.”
Ron notes that it’s been an exciting, gratifying journey, with all of those complex elements having to come together in order for a solution to be developed and implemented. He’s particularly proud that the District was the first water agency to use the innovative SkyTem technology to accurately identify impending seawater intrusion before it reached a point beyond recovery.
“What a gift to have gained that knowledge, enabling us to work proactively to prevent further seawater contamination of our water supply,” he says.
Another area of achievement led by Ron and his colleague and incoming General Manager Melanie Schumacher was gaining over $95 million in federal and state grant funding for the Pure Water Soquel Project,
By Rebecca Gold Rubin
supplemented by substantial amounts of lowinterest loans from state and federal sources. This remarkable level of funding, especially for a small agency, put Soquel Creek Water District on the map within the water industry, and enhanced the District’s profile, and Ron’s reputation as a leader among local and state water providers.
Throughout his Soquel Creek Water District journey, Ron has been a tireless champion for water conservation, water delivery, and water reuse with Pure Water Soquel. He notes that in his career prior to the District he’s been a geologist, a hydrologist, and a technical consultant. But since then, his path has evolved into what he calls the science of the people - an area where he has found his greatest fulfillment.
“It’s been so rewarding to lead an organization, mentor and help its individuals to
thrive and move upwards in their potential, support them to succeed both professionally and personally — all in the context of protecting and enhancing what is absolutely our most precious resource — water,” he says. “Those are the things that have inspired and motivated me, and really what I’m most grateful for in my journey with Soquel Creek Water District.”
On the eve of his retirement, it’s fitting to acknowledge that Ron consistently performed at the highest professional level with his characteristic integrity, authenticity, creativity, unwavering commitment, and gifted leadership. His outstanding efforts in fulfilling the vision of Pure Water Soquel, and his many other accomplishments during his tenure with the District, comprise a remarkable and meaningful legacy to the entire region. n
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Ron Duncan
SCCAS Featured Pet
Wake Up to Adorableness!
Our Pets of the Week this week are Latte (A313303) and Mocha (A313304).
These sweet little guinea pigs are looking for their new homes! They came in as owner surrenders when the owners no longer had time for them. We are not sure if they are related but they are friends for sure.
Mocha can be skittish and shy, but Latte is the friendlier and more social of the duo. They both like hanging out in their kennels, waiting for snacks.
Here at the Shelter they have loved the lettuce and it is reported that in their previous home Mocha loved pea flakes and Latte loved banana chips. Guinea pigs are adorable and can have huge personalities — when they want something they demand it by squeaking.
They are great companions and will make you laugh a lot. Come to SCCAS and meet Mocha and Latte today! 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. All adoptions are first come, first served.
SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours
Emergency: 831-471-1182 • After Hours: jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Summer Warmth Continues Into Fall
By Tony Tomeo
The locally mild climate might be rather boring. Winter weather is not very cold. Summer weather is only sometimes very hot. Then, warmth does not often last for very long. Such climate might seem to be deficient in seasons. Summer seems to be the primary season, with just a few cool weeks of winter. Spring and autumn seem to be only brief transitions.
According to the position of Sirius, the Dog Star, the dog days of summer are done. They are the hottest days of the year for several climates of the Northern Hemisphere. The last was the eleventh of August. The final day of summer is the 22nd of September. Such dates are less relevant here than elsewhere, though. Warm weather may continue. Indian summer is more typical here than not. In some other climates, it is unusually warm and dry weather that continues into autumn. In this particular climate, it is not so unusual. Another difference is that it does not occur after earlier frost, as it might elsewhere. Some climates here lack frost anyway. Locally, warm weather is more lingering than fluctuating.
Some vegetation knows how to exploit such weather. Indeterminate tomato varieties can continue to be productive until a first frost. If they started soon after a last frost, they could get sloppy with rampant growth. That should not be a problem if production is the priority. With phasing as late as August, determinate tomato varieties can also produce until frost.
Most popular canna cultivars are hybrids of tropical and montane species. Because they are tropical, they are not accustomed to distinctly cool winter seasons. Because they are montane, they survive mild frost. Therefore, they grow until frost, and then resume growth as soon as they can afterward. Dahlia is similar, but maintains dormancy through winter.
Photoperiod also influences growth. Days gradually shorten through summer regardless of the duration of warmth. Some species are more responsive to this than others. Later in summer, crape myrtle can slowly begin to develop autumn foliar color. It does not require much chill to become strikingly colorful for autumn. It can do so while cannas still bloom and tomato plants still produce fruit.
•••
Bedding Dahlia Dahlias are as variable as related chrysanthemums. Rare tree dahlias can grow ten feet tall from the ground annually. Most popular dahlias grow less than half as high with more lavish bloom.
Bedding dahlias are less than a foot and a half tall with smaller but profuse flowers. They are popular as warm season annuals, but can be perennial like the others.
Bedding dahlias are neither as ornate nor as diverse as those that are better cut flowers. They compensate with foliar density and floral profusion. Their flowers are less than five inches wide, and could be about half as wide. Their floral color range is limited to yellow, orange, red, pink and white. Floral variegation can add another color of the same range.
Bloom continues through summer and autumn, until frost. Deadheading promotes better bloom. Dormant tubers may remain in their gardens through winters here. They could rot, though, while their soil remains cool and damp. If dug and stored for winter, they prefer to return to their gardens prior to spring warmth. Dorman tubers propagate well by division. n
