Capitola Soquel Times: February 2025

Lithium Battery Fire in Moss Landing Officials Question Whether Plant Offers Green Energy

By Jondi Gumz

A fire broke out Jan. 16 and burned for four days at Vistra Energy’s flagship lithium battery energy storage plant in Moss Landing, closing Highway 1 (a major route to Big Sur) and schools, evacuating about 1,200 people, sending out

black smoke full of toxic gases over agricultural fields known as the world’s salad bowl, and raising safety questions for a proposed $200 million lithium battery storage system site on Minto Road outside Watsonville. ... continues on page 4

By Jondi Gumz

On Jan. 23, a week after the Vistra lithium battery storage plant fire in Moss Landing, Assemblymember Dawn Addis said she has introduced legislation to restore permitting for lithium battery storage to local communities. Full Story page 7 Capitola’s Crazy 10-Way Unsafe Intersection Full Story page 14

Capitola Remembers the Begonia Festival By

Laurie Hill, Capitola Arts and Cultural Commissioner

The Capitola Begonia Festival ended its 65-year run in September 2017 when Golden State Bulb, formerly known as Brown Ranch, stopped growing begonias.

Full Story page 10

COVER STORY

“Moss Landing Fire” from page 1

Jondi Gumz contributing writers

Jondi Gumz, John Laird, Laurie Hill, Corey Aldridge, Michael Elmasu, Jeff Dela Cruz, Risa D’Angeles, Adrienne West, Joe Ortiz, Christopher Elliott, Rebecca Gold Rubin, Tony Tomeo

Michael Oppenheimer

Michael Oppenheimer, Ward Austin

Teri Huckobey, Brooke Valentine

Bill Pooley, Erik Long

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The cause of the fire at the battery storage plant, billed as the world’s largest at tiny Moss Landing, population 239, known as a fishing harbor next to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, is not known.

Vistra promised an investigation.

The fire could be seen across Monterey Bay in Santa Cruz.

Witness Eric Wesoff, who lives nearby, saw a 100-foot-tall inferno and orange fire lighting up the sky.

Experts say lithium battery fires can burn for hours or days.

Firefighters let the fire in Moss Landing burn out, which experts say is the best approach to avoid injury.

When exposed to water, lithium batteries can release toxic gases and explode.

According to Vistra, no employees were injured.

The fire caught the attention of The New York Times, which reported lithium-ion battery fires can emit toxic hydrogen fluoride gases.

Vistra Corp., based in Irving, Texas, is a Fortune 500 company that says it’s committed to a clean energy future by reducing greenhouse gases.

Vistra acquired the Moss Landing property, formerly home to a PG&E power plant, when it purchased Dynegy in 2018 for $1.7 billion.

The plant capacity was 4,000 megawatt hours.

Experts say lithium batteries are a safe technology needed to lower carbon emissions and make electricity grids more reliable.

California has a goal of 100% clean electricity by 2045, and some say battery energy storage is needed to integrate renewable energy sources needed to meet that goal.

Assembly Member Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) is calling for full transparency of the “massive datasets” being analyzed by Vistra and

its subcontractors. She wants an independent forensic investigation into what went wrong.

She said, “I am exploring all options for preventing future battery energy storage fires from ever occurring again on the Central Coast.”

On Jan. 23, she proposed AB 303 to return permitting of such plants from state to local control. See related story.

Emergency Plan Required

Addis said she helped author Sen. John Laird’s SB 38, signed into law in October 2023, requiring battery storage plants to have “an emergency response and emergency action plan” and to coordinate with first response agencies and local emergency response agencies.

Laird acknowledged the conflict between having clean energy of this type and everybody being safe.

Monterey County Supervisor Glenn Church called the fire “a Three Mile Island event for this industry,” saying renewable energy needs to be safe energy.

He also endorsed an independent investigation, as did Gov. Newsom.

Santa Cruz County Supervisor Justin Cummings, who chairs the California Coastal Commission, predicted lithium battery plants would get a high level of scrutiny.

Vistra, which had proposed a lithium battery storage plant for Morro Bay, when Dawn Addis was mayor, encountered opposition there. After four years of municipal review, but no permit, Vistra said it would ask the California Energy Commission to approve the project. That is allowed under AB 205.

This fire is the fourth, and by far the largest, emergency response incident at Moss Landing power plant site in four years.

Battery packs smoked up and triggered the fire suppression system twice over a fivemonth period at the Vistra site between 2021 and 2022.

Vistra uses NMC batteries manufactured by South Korea’s LG Energy Solution, according to Canary Media.

In September 2022, an adjacent battery plant owned by Tesla and Pacific Gas & Electric caught fire but was quickly contained.

In May, the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department spent 14 days battling a hazardous

Michael Oppenheimer, Camisa Composti

Michael Oppenheimer

Image Courtesy of Vistra

fire that ignited at a lithium-ion battery storage facility in Otay Mesa. The fire emitted toxic gases and prompted nearby businesses to evacuate.

Perplexing Incidents

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, “battery fires have become one of the most challenging and perplexing incidents for the fire service in recent years.”

With lithium batteries used in cell phones, laptops, tablets, scooters, golf carts, electric vehicles, power tools and children’s toys, there have been at least 25,000 lithiumion battery fires nationwide in the past five years, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

In 2023, recognizing concerns in the fire service, the Fire Safety Research Institute, part of UL Research Institutes co-hosted the” Lithium-Ion Battery Symposium: Challenges for the Fire Service,” which is still online. Experts shared knowledge about lithiumion battery technology, hazards, and how to mitigate risks associated with battery fire incidents.

Patrick Durham, with 18 years in the fire service in Michigan and the proprietor of StacheD Training, a safety consulting firm, highlighted the Moss Landing plant fire in a video he posted.

He said the design of the Vistra battery plant, built in 2020, was not set up to prevent fire from spreading.

His explanation:

The site has multiple racks of batteries. Each rack contains multiple battery modules, and when one module fails, a single cell fails inside and can lead to a catastrophic event.

In a warehouse setup like this, there’s little to prevent fire from spreading through the entire facility.

The Tesla plan has a different design.

The Tesla mega pack is self-contained designed to isolate failures, there are igniters to safely burn off flammable gases reduce the risk of explosion, and the units are spaced out, so a fire in one unit does not spread to next unit.

The plant was built in phases, two stories, 1,200 megawatt hours in 2020; then Phase 2, a single-story facility, 400 megawatt hours, and Phase 3, with 1,400 megawatt hours in 2023.

The fire occurred in the Phase 1 facility.

An adjacent battery plant, with 730 megawatt hours, was built by Tesla in 2022 and is operated by PG&E.

Previous problems at Vistra, according to Durham:

Sept. 2021, overheating led to a shutdown, problems with cooling Feb. 2022, overheating led to shutdown and visible damage 2021, programming error led to unintended water release, short circuits and damage to multiple racks.

Minto Road Proposal

Santa Cruz County has not approved any lithium battery energy storage systems.

New Leaf Energy, founded in 2022 and

COVER STORY

based in Lowell, Mass., has proposed one BESS at 90 Minto Road, using newer technology. The site is surrounded by ag fields, nurseries, and is near Pinto Lake City Park, Amesti Elementary School and Monte Vista Christian School.

Max Christian, project lead for New Leaf Energy, answered questions via email.

“Our understanding is that the County has eliminated all other locations due to siting issues,” he said.

“What happened at Moss Landing is awful and should never happen again,” he added.

“The best way we can ensure that is to move away from the old generation of BESS, which is what they had at Moss Landing, in favor of the new generation of BESS that fully addresses the risks we see in the old technology that was deployed at Moss Landing. Among the new generation of BESS facilities in California, there have been no reports of fire.”

Battery storage technology is a continuously evolving technology, he pointed out.

Christian described the proposed Seahawk battery storage this way.

“Batteries will be safely housed in purpose-built, sealed, steel containers that will feature on-board, 24/7 heat monitoring systems and specialized fire suppression systems. Each container will be physically separated by a buffer zone of several feet consistent with the most updated California Fire Codes for energy storage systems. The Seahawk approach stands in stark contrast to the Moss Landing Vistra facility, which utilized a repurposed warehouse in which the batteries were located in open-air and not kept in separated containers.”

He added, “The batteries planned for Seahawk will utilize lithium phosphate (LFP) chemistry, which is more stable than batteries that use nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) chemistry. NMC chemistry, originally developed for electric vehicles and used at the Moss Landing Vistra facility, is more volatile and prone to fire. LFP chemistry, designed for stationary uses, is more secure.”

If a thermal event or fire occurred at the proposed facility on Minto Road, Christian said the incident would be confined to a single, steel battery container, where any fire would be sealed inside the container.

He maintained the Minto Road facility would not experience the catastrophic smoke plume seen at Moss Landing that resulted from a large building on fire that contained open-air batteries that were not kept in separated sealed containers.

Christian said the project will comply with Senate Bill 38, requiring an emergency response plan, to be created in close coordination with local emergency response agencies and submitted to local government.

He said the Seahawk project is being planned in collaboration with the Pajaro Valley Fire Protection District and CalFire, with input from nearby by fire protection agencies.

Times Publishing Group, Inc. called the Pajaro Valley Fire District and was told firefighters are just learning about Minto Road battery storage proposal. n Cover Photo Courtesy of Alekz Londos

URGENT CARE FOR DOGS & CATS

Was Vistra Emergency Plan Effective?

By Sen. John Laird, State Senator, District 17

The recent fire at the Moss Landing battery storage facility is deeply troubling, and the community continues to seek answers nearly a week later. The day after the fire began, I joined California Energy Commission Chair David Hochschild and other elected leaders at the incident command center in Moss Landing to receive an initial briefing on the fire’s timeline, air quality & environmental concerns, and potential impacts on local residents.

In 2023, I authored Senate Bill 38 to require battery storage facilities to develop and submit an emergency safety plan, recognizing the growing prevalence of these systems to meet our state’s clean energy goals. Among the requirements of this bill was that each battery storage facility located in California have an emergency response and emergency action plan. SB 38 further required that in developing the plan, there be coordination with local emergency management agencies, unified program agencies, and local first response agencies. Such a plan was required to be filed with the city or county in which the facility is located.

In this case, a plan was completed by Vistra in September 2023 — four months before the law formally went into effect.

While the plan was extensive, it was not filed after the bill became law. There are questions as to whether the report covered plans for an incident of this magnitude. Furthermore, it appears that PG&E has not filed an emergency safety plan for their adjacent battery storage facility in compliance with the law. It is imperative to determine whether the specific plan that was submitted by Vistra to local authorities was implemented effectively during this incident, and since it was filed prior to the law going into effect — if the report was consistent with the new law. In reviewing the effectiveness of this law, we could consider setting deadlines for submitting these reports and requiring periodic updates to encourage ongoing coordination between cities, counties, and facilities.

To help rebuild community trust that the facility can operate safely, significant changes are necessary. While the system currently remains offline, Vistra must take immediate steps to address these issues, including: Providing the Monterey Bay Air Resources District with sufficient SPM Flex gas detectors to effectively track hydrogen fluoride levels.

“Emergency Plan” page 13

Hernandez: Safety is Highest Priority

Felipe Hernandez, who chairs the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors, released this statement on the lithium battery storage fire on Jan. 22:

The recent events in Moss Landing have understandably heightened safety concerns across our community. At the upcoming Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, January 28, we will provide a comprehensive update on the fire in Moss Landing, ensuring residents are informed and engaged in this critical conversation.

We cannot accept facilities in our neighborhoods that pose a risk of repeated catastrophic incidents.

As we evaluate any proposals, including the Minto Road project, safety plans and mitigation measures will remain our top priorities. A thorough environmental impact review will also be essential to fully assess the potential benefits and risks to our environment and community.

Green energy is vital to combating

climate change and meeting State and local goals to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. Battery storage technology has the potential to play a transformative role in this transition — if implemented with the highest standards of safety and responsibility.

Lessons learned from the Moss Landing fire — including emergency response efforts, evacuation procedures, air quality testing, and fire suppression strategies — are shaping our approach. In addition, response protocols are being strengthened to better protect public safety moving forward. Community involvement is critical in this process. My office, in collaboration with Community Development and Infrastructure and the Office of Response, Recovery, and Resilience, will also be reaching out to the City of Watsonville, to ensure residents have a meaningful voice in shaping the future of energy projects in our region. Safety will always remain our highest priority. n

John Laird

Felipe Hernandez

Bill: Return Lithium Battery Storage Permits to Local Government

By Jondi Gumz

On Jan. 23, a week after the Vistra lithium battery storage plant fire in Moss Landing, Assemblymember Dawn Addis said she has introduced legislation to restore permitting for lithium battery storage to local communities.

“We believe deeply in the importance of the local community to have a voice in the process,” she said.

The bill, AB 303, would eliminate the state streamlining of lithium battery energy storage, systems (known as BESS) allowed by AB 205.

Addis asked the CPUC for “a fully transparent investigation into the root case, evaluate environmental and public health impacts and enact and enforce state safety standards for battery energy storage facilities.”

She also asked the CPUC to assess risks, provide actionable prevention recommendations and collaborate with the state Fire Marshal.

Addis said Assembly member Gail Pellerin, Sen. John Laird, and Gov. Gavin Newsom support an independent investi

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“Tax Day” page 10

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Another View on Title 8

I

n the January 2025 issue, in a letter captioned “A Question for Sheriff Chris Clark,” the writer asks Sheriff Clark to enforce US Code, Title 8, section 1324(iii), which makes it a crime to conceal, harbor, or shield from detection “in any place” a person known to be in the US illegally.

The writer claims that the sheriff would be violating Title 8 if he refuses to cooperate with ICE by turning over to ICE undocumented immigrants who have completed their sentences, even though State law prohibits him from doing so, and even though releasing those people into the community does not “conceal, harbor, or shield from detection” those people.

Upon release, those people are in the open. Just like US citizens, when undocumented immigrants complete their sentences, they should be free of the criminal justice system.

Moreover, the letter writer falsely and

“Local Control” from page 7

She said she’s received hundreds and hundreds of emails, calls and messages from concerned residents.

“Our true goal is to ensure safety for the community,” she said, not only in Moss Landing but in any other community where a battery energy storage system is planned.

“California must never have a disaster like this again,” she said.

Glenn Church: Other Batteries Safer

Monterey County Supervisor Glenn Church is leading an ad hoc committee to look at what else can be done to make sure an emergency such as this never happen again.

“I absolutely support it,” said Church, referring to AB 303 and calling the current regulations on this relatively new industry “haphazard.”

He embraced the return to local control on permitting these energy plants and agreed an independent investigation is needed.

Church said the cleanup, after discussing it with North County Fire, will take weeks perhaps months.

“Safety is paramount concern,” he said, noting a possibility that moving debris, as lithium batteries are inherently unstable, could create smoke or flames. “That is the nature of this battery, and that is nature of why we are so concerned.”

He said monitoring equipment will be available, and may be for some time.

As for water and soil testing, that will be handled by Cal EPA, state Office Environment Hazard Assessment and the state Department of Toxic Substance Control.

“I think this is welcome news,” he said. “When we get results, we’ll reporting back.”

As for the technology, he said, “I understand this industry is essential for a

without support claims that releasing undocumented immigrants into the community upon completion of their sentences causes all manners of harm, including “theft, ... child trafficking, assaults, rapes and murders,” and drug trafficking.

The writer does not cite any evidence that any undocumented immigrant has ever been convicted of any of these crimes in Santa Cruz County. Many studies establish that immigrants, including undocumented immigrants, are more law-abiding than citizens.

The press is full of these crimes, committed by citizens. How is the community harmed more by releasing an undocumented immigrant into the community than releasing anyone else who has completed their sentence and goes on to commit another crime?

Title 8 does not require Sheriff Clark to cooperate with ICE. I urge Sheriff Clark to continue to enforce all aspects of the law.

— Peter Gelblum, Boulder Creek

sustainable future. We have to be able to stores batteries. We have to have protections.,, but we just can’t keep going ahead without the proper regulations…government regulations and control of this technology by industry is not up to where it should be.”

Church and Addis agree the Moss Landing plant should not restart until the cause of the fire is identified.

“This technology, it needs to be safe,” Church added. “These are not the only batteries. There are other batteries that can be used in situations like this. They may not be as effective but they’re a whole lot safer.” n

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Capitola Remembers the Begonia Festival

By Laurie Hill, Capitola Arts and Cultural Commissioner

The Capitola Begonia Festival ended its 65-year run in September 2017 when Golden State Bulb, formerly known as Brown Ranch, stopped growing begonias. Capitola celebrated and grieved its final festival of begonia covered barges floating down Soquel Creek.

The festival organizing committee concluded the end of the era with a Gala at the Coconut Grove in Santa Cruz and a $20,000 contribution to the Capitola Arts and Cultural Commission to initiate a sculpture to commemorate the Begonia Festival.

This art honors the contributions of the begonia growers and the multitude of volunteers who maintained 65 years of this Capitola community tradition.

The piece was designed by Geoffrey Nelson and Lynn Jaye with construction assistance from Sandra Frank, is scheduled to be installed this month, adjacent to Soquel Creek at the corner of Wharf Road and Stockton Bridge Avenue.

“Tax Day” from page 8

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Geoffrey Nelson said, “My sculpture

“Beguiling Begonias” elevates this flower to a bold, colorful and bigger than life icon. Begonias adorned the floats and served as a colorful palette for all the festival’s activities. The three blossoms, each four feet wide with different colors, will rise out of a sand castle-shaped base. The base starts at the bottom in a deep blue, symbolizing the blue of the lagoon where the parade took place and gradually transitions to a light blue which symbolizes the sky above the beach. The flowers will gently glow at night with color changing internal LED’s. I hope the work serves as a beautiful greeting to people coming to the Village during the day and a subtle radiating presence for locals enjoying the Village at night.”

The Capitola Arts and Cultural Commission invites you to be a part of the sculpture unveiling, tentatively scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 22. Plans include a commemorative presentation at City Hall followed by remarks at the sculpture site. n

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Geoffrey Nelson, artist, with work in progress

A rough drawing of Geoffrey Nelson’s project, with an image of himself to show approximate scale.

When Vistra Announced the World’s Largest Lithium Battery Storage

Editor’s note: Here’s Vistra’s Aug. 21, 2021 announcement about the Moss Landing lithium battery plant expansion.

Vistra (NYSE: VST) recently completed construction on Phase II of its Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility. The battery system is now storing power and releasing it to California’s grid when it is needed. The 100-megawatt expansion now brings the facility’s total capacity to 400 megawatts/1,600 megawatt-hours, making it the largest of its kind in the world.

“This facility provides a solution California desperately needs and this expansion was able to come online at the right time — as the summer heat intensifies and demand for electricity is at its highest. It is possible because of the partnership between Vistra and the State of California, Pacific Gas and Electric Company, LG Energy Solution, and Burns & McDonnell,” said Curt Morgan, chief executive officer at Vistra. “The state’s laudable immense buildout of intermittent renewable power has both lowered emissions and presented a reliability challenge. California produces an excess amount of renewable power during the day while the sun is up, but often struggles to meet demand as the sun goes down. Our Moss Landing battery system helps to fill that reliability gap, storing the excess daytime power so it doesn’t go to waste and then releasing it to the grid when it’s needed most.”

Announced just 15 months ago with construction starting in September 2020, the Phase II expansion project was completed in July 2021, ahead of schedule despite the many challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Utilizing technology from LG Energy Solution, Vistra’s enormous lithium-ion battery system is colocated on the site of its existing Moss Landing Power Plant in Monterey County, a site that’s been providing electricity to Californians since 1950. Burns & McDonnell provided engineering, procurement, and construction expertise for the expansion.

can support intermittent renewables to help create a reliable grid of the future.”

The 100-MW/400-MWh Phase II expansion is operating under a 10-year resource adequacy agreement with Pacific Gas and Electric Co.

The 300-MW/1,200-MWh Phase I project has a similar 20-year resource adequacy agreement with PG&E.

Vistra is a market-leader in battery energy storage and in 2020 announced it would spend approximately $5 billion by 2030 in renewable and battery energy storage, including nearly $1 billion of development projects already underway, rotating its generation fleet towards zero-emission technologies. Moss Landing is the flagship project of the company’s carbon-free Vistra Zero portfolio of generation assets.

•••

Support for Vistra Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility

Congressman Jimmy Panetta: “As California and the Central Coast derive more and more of our energy from renewable resources, storage is key for ensuring that power is available when the sun isn’t shining, and the wind isn’t blowing. The energy storage facility that Vistra is deploying in Moss Landing will help us build a more reliable, low-emission grid, providing zero-emission power to communities far and wide when they need it. As we face the increasing threat of wildfires and disruptions to our grid, this backup power can serve to bolster our grid’s stability and reliability.”

State Senator John Laird: “California has committed itself to a renewable energy future and the Central Coast is the perfect example of how to transition former fossil fuel plants to renewable energy centers. Vistra’s Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility is a testament to that bright future. Developing battery storage in conjunction with wind and solar energy will ensure reliable, clean energy for decades to come.”

Morgan continued, “What’s great about this particular site is that it has the space to support even further expansion — up to 1,500 MW/6,000 MWh — while responsibly utilizing our existing site infrastructure, including existing transmission lines and grid interconnection. California leads the country in the transition away from fossil fuels and the Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility stands as a model for how batteries

Monterey County Supervisor John M. Phillips: “When people think about Moss Landing energy, they usually envision the landmark power plant and its two tall smokestacks. In fact, Vistra’s Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility is the largest battery storage facility of its kind in the world and is providing a tremendous amount of reliable, clean energy. Vistra continues to be an outstanding community partner and reliable steward of the historic Moss Landing Power Plant.”

COMMUNITY NEWS

Mark Rothleder, senior vice president and chief operating officer, California Independent System Operator: “This facility and others like it will show California and the world what lithium-ion battery storage can accomplish. It will help us keep the lights on this summer and summers to come.”

Jason Glickman, executive vice president of engineering, planning & strategy, Pacific Gas and Electric Co.: “Together we are ushering in a new era of electric system reliability and delivering a vision into the future for our customers with the commissioning of the Vistra Moss Landing energy storage facility. We are committed to safely delivering reliable and clean energy in a way that achieves the greatest value for our customers, but we can’t go it alone into this clean energy future. Projects like this require great partners, such as Vistra, and PG&E will continue to seek out and work with the best and brightest to provide breakthrough clean energy solutions for our customers.”

Youngjoon Shin, senior vice president of ESS Business, LG Energy Solution: “As more intermittent resources integrate into power grids, the role of battery energy storage in supplying energy and ensuring grid reliability becomes even more important. On this note, Vistra’s effort towards transitioning to emission-free energy is vital, and LG Energy Solution hopes to make the transition a reality through advanced lithium-ion battery technology. As the world’s largest energy storage facility, Moss Landing is especially meaningful as it shows the dedication of both LG Energy Solution and Vistra to expanding eco-friendly renewable energy sources through energy storage technology.”

Ray Kowalik, chairman and CEO, Burns

“Emergency Plan” from page 6

Collaborating with the North County Fire Protection District to expand their capacity and readiness to respond to incidents of this scale.

Initiating additional environmental monitoring and testing such as air, soil, water, and particulate matter assessments.

Presenting emergency safety plans required under SB 38 at a public forum to increase transparency and accountability.

I extend my deepest gratitude to the first responders who have worked tirelessly to

& McDonnell: “This was truly an amazing project for everyone involved. Designing and building the expansion of the world’s largest battery energy storage facility — particularly during a global pandemic — was very fulfilling. Renewable resources cannot be fully deployed unless we have a massive investment in energy storage like the Moss Landing facility. We are honored to partner with Vistra on such an iconic project that will help provide reliable power to the residents in the region.”

•••

Vistra is a leading Fortune 275 integrated retail electricity and power generation company based in Irving, Texas, providing essential resources for customers, commerce, and communities. Vistra combines an innovative, customer-centric approach to retail with safe, reliable, diverse, and efficient power generation. The company brings its products and services to market in 20 states and the District of Columbia, including six of the seven competitive wholesale markets in the U.S. and markets in Canada and Japan, as well.

Serving nearly 4.3 million residential, commercial, and industrial retail customers with electricity and natural gas, Vistra is one of the largest competitive electricity providers in the country and offers over 50 renewable energy plans.

The company is also the largest competitive power generator in the U.S. with a capacity of approximately 39,000 megawatts powered by a diverse portfolio, including natural gas, nuclear, solar, and battery energy storage facilities. In addition, Vistra is a large purchaser of wind power. n

•••

Photos Courtesy of Vistra

protect and inform our community during this challenging time. The impacts of this fire have been profound — from the financial hardships faced by small businesses affected by the highway closure to the stress and disruption caused from the evacuation. These challenges underscore the importance of not only addressing the immediate aftermath but also implementing long-term solutions to prevent similar incidents in the future. My office is fully committed to finding answers, advocating for necessary reforms, and ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of our Central Coast communities. n

Who Goes First?

Capitola’s Crazy 10-Way Unsafe Intersection

By Adrienne West

Ioppose the removal of the recent changes to the Bay Ave/Hill St intersection.

With the current design including the bulb-outs, pedestrians are now protected with an additional 44 feet of less exposure to vehicle traffic. This is due to the shortening of the crosswalks because of those new bulb-outs.

The mere idea the City Council would consider removing these safety measures is gut-wrenching. I really hope they reconsider.

As some of you might remember, I tragically lost my Mom in November 2023 in the area of Crossroads Loop and have a lingering feeling of responsibility to speak for all of her friends at the Bay Ave Senior Housing complex.

While it is too difficult for them to attend these meetings, I have not heard of much outreach to them beyond the initial meeting held at their campus to discuss what we see now with the updated changes at the intersection. I am very concerned they are not being included in important discussions about reversing changes made here.

Why isn’t anyone from Kimley Horn or City Planning/Public Works or City Council involving the seniors’ input in any of these discussions or votes? They are your predominate pedestrian traffic here in the area and they deserve a little better than trying to run for their lives to cross this busy street. They deserve a voice to be heard.

Many of the seniors cannot drive and therefore are forced to cross Bay Ave on foot to take care of their basic food and medical needs at the Nob Hill Center. If you continue with the idea to remove the changes you made just a few months ago, you are essentially saying “the safety of our seniors doesn’t matter.”

I am hoping the Council will reconsider reverting the changes made in the interest of public safety for everyone. It is safer — Kimley Horn has given data thus far to show that. Less accidents, less near misses. Data speaks for itself.

How many of you have been to a 4-way stop this week and there is some dilemma in whose turn it is to go next? I bet every one of us sees this on a weekly if not daily basis where we don’t know for sure who was there first or someone is obviously in a bigger hurry and thinks they are next when they really aren’t.

Now, double that — and then add one more stop. That is what is happening here at the intersection. The original configuration, the one you all are talking about putting back up, has nine stops!

Now you factor in that at least half or more of those cars are coming to their stops

at alternating intervals, likely unsure if personally they go next because the parallel neighboring car is next, and now you have the problem!

Complicate that with folks on foot or bike trying to cross one of the four crosswalks while this is happening and then you’ve got even more confusion. That is nearly 10 people at one intersection trying to decide who is going to go first?

If we can’t figure out a 4-way stop, how on earth will anyone figure out a 10-way stop?

Recently, I was sitting behind a car at the intersection nearest Peet’s Coffee heading towards the Village. I was in the straight lane. The car ahead of me patiently waited for 2 pedestrians crossing in separate crosswalks before making her way through the

intersection. The 2nd pedestrian was crossing from Peet’s to Crossroads, and low and behold a speeding car came into the left-hand turn lane stop sign area and rolled the stop sign and nearly ran over the pedestrian!

I mean if that Pedestrian had taken one more step, he would’ve been struck and severely injured!

As luck would have it, our own Capitola Police officer was in the opposite side of traffic near Dairy Queen and he quickly pulled the speeder over on Hill St.

What this tells us is that, even with our current configuration of only 7 stops, pedestrian safety is STILL AT RISK!

I ask you, Council members, why on earth would you vote to go back to the way it was?

In a most ideal world, a signal light with

traditional crosswalk signals would solve a lot of these issues. I’d like to know that money is being set aside for this purpose. How much money is still needed to make this happen? When can we expect to see this happen?

As for the recommendation of speed tables, I don’t understand how that will help as the biggest issue the public has brought forth is the traffic — it’s already slow through there, how would you justify the expense of speed tables when speed isn’t the primary concern?

To me, the primary concern is these 10 people trying to figure out who goes next through the intersection.

Also, I would like to recommend a One Way or “Enter Only” at the carwash intersection into Nob Hill. Allowing people to turn left out of that intersection is an accident waiting to happen and a city liability in my opinion. So, there is a little more traffic than there was — we expected that, it was written into the plan. It may or may not resolve somewhat once the freeway onramp and the Capitola Avenue Bridge are opened back up but obviously, we can’t predict the future.

The fact is, as our population continues to grow, so does our traffic issues — it’s how things work.

Until more time has passed, we don’t truly know how this current configuration will benefit us. It is far too early to remove it all. Please reconsider.

Joseph Campbell: ‘In the Belly of the Beast’

By Joe Ortiz

Editor’s note: This is the sixth in an ongoing series.

In my constant search for insights into what it takes to spark creativity, I found an illuminating example in Hero with a Thousand Faces, where Joseph Campbell writes about spending time “in the belly of the beast.”

As one of the stages of the hero’s journey, the Belly of the Beast is at the heart of the hero’s quest: Dealing with the terror involved in attempting to conquer some evil — perhaps fighting a dragon or combatting a dreaded foe, real or imagined.

For me, having spent time in kitchens all my life, the belly of the beast symbolizes the far less dramatic experience of scrubbing pots in the scullery. While this lacks the intensity of Campbell’s interpretation, it evokes the grind of imposed tasks — an apprentice’s drudgery before advancing to more creative roles. In such moments, the monotony can feel like a form of incarceration.

Campbell describes this phase as the moment “in which the artist and the protagonist doubt themselves and wish the journey

had never begun” — a time described in classic story structure as The Refusal of the Call. Here, the hero faces a choice: Quit or press on. Whether creating art or enduring the monotony of scrubbing pots, we must either abandon the quest or remain committed to seeing it through.

The task of creating art often thrusts us into uncomfortable or painful situations: the stress of an impending deadline or the chaos of a project gone haywire. Real or self-imposed, the agony grips us, feeling as real as escaping from drowning or walking through fire.

Many artists describe this stage as being “in the woods,” a natural but disorienting part of the creative process. This sense of being trapped or lost can lead to surrender. But instead of fleeing, we often recommit to the very structure

causing our anguish — pots or poetry, dishpans or paintings gone wrong.

Paradoxically, this self-imposed “hero struggle” may become our salvation. As the adage goes, “the only way out is through.”

A graphic-artist friend once described a moment of despair that convinced me he was deep in a belly-of-thebeast experience: “At the bleakest hour of the night, when a painting has gone terribly wrong and I’m ready to destroy it—that’s the moment the breakthrough comes; a solution arrives, and it saves me ... and the painting.” His use of the word “breakthrough” was telling: It taught me that when the painting is saved, the agonizing rite of passage can become an enlightenment.

What We Can Learn: If we persist, any

Healing the heart. With heart.

We all have something that makes our hearts beat a little faster—a love for family, a fulfilling career, a favorite hobby. At Dominican Hospital, our cardiovascular team shares that passion, and we put it into caring for our patients every day. Our nationally recognized program offers advanced diagnostics, innovative treatment options and comprehensive rehabilitation services. From routine cardiac checkups to lifesaving procedures, we have the expertise and dedication to care for your heart—to help keep it beating strong for all the people and activities you love. Learn more at DignityHealth.org/DominicanHearts

urgent, near-despair “belly-of-the-beast” moment can compel us to solve the challenge before us. But this shift from agony to realization can’t be fabricated through analytical thinking—it emerges after we’ve accepted the struggle.

In fact, any rote chore that makes us feel trapped can spark new insights, whether writing a sonnet or getting the dishes done before guests arrive. If you’re like me, you may find your best ideas while chained to the sink.

As many artists know, creative breakthroughs arise from wholehearted devotion to a task, discipline, or unanswered question. By locking ourselves into highly demanding situations, we open ourselves to the possibility of insight.

Time spent in the dungeon of our self-imposed drudgery can teach us to be hyper-productive: When we lose all hope, we go back to the scrubbing of pots. n

I’ve interviewed many artists about their experiences with creative breakthrough moments. If you’d like to share yours, email me and we’ll chat: joe@gocapitola.com.

IN MEMORIAM

Central Fire’s Captain Steven Ramirez

By Michael Elmasu

Editor’s note: Central Fire Protection District of Santa Cruz County and Professional Firefighters of Santa Cruz County, IAFF Local 3535, sadly share news of the passing of one of their own.

It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Fire Captain Steven Ramirez, a cherished husband, father, and friend, as well as a dedicated leader in the fire service community.

Captain Steven Ramirez, 54, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 11, while on duty, serving the community he loved so deeply.

Captain Ramirez dedicated 24 remarkable years to Central Fire Protection District, beginning his career in 1999. Before that, he served as a Firefighter I with CalFire for 10 years, with time spent on a Alma helitac crew.

Throughout his career, he was widely admired as a natural leader who approached life with an infectious joy that inspired those around him.

Captain Ramirez leaves behind his devoted wife, three daughters, and his son, along with countless family members, friends, and fire personnel who loved him dearly. His legacy of service, compassion, and leadership will forever remain in the hearts of those whose lives he touched.

This GoFundMe has been created to support the Ramirez family as they navigate

this unimaginable loss. Your contributions will help ease the financial burdens during this difficult time and allow them to focus on healing.

Thank you for honoring Captain Ramirez’s memory and his incredible life of service.

Information about a memorial service will be shared at a future date. n

To support the Ramirez family, see: https:// www.gofundme.com/f/support-the-family-of-firecaptain-steve-ramirez

COMMUNITY NEWS

Metro Bus Fleet Not Ready to Upgrade Service

By Corey Aldridge

Over the past year, Metro has seen unprecedented growth as part of our Reimagine Metro initiative, nearly doubling service across the county and providing increased connectivity and accessibility for our riders, thus improving transit options for communities across Santa Cruz County.

This rapid expansion has brought many exciting opportunities, but has also presented significant challenges, particularly with our aging fleet.

As the CEO of Metro, I take full responsibility for the impact these challenges have had on your experience as riders.

Many of our buses have far exceeded their

intended lifespan, and the increased mileage required to support our expanded service has resulted in more frequent breakdowns and maintenance needs. We underestimated the strain this would place on our fleet and, consequently, on your commutes.

“Metro” page 18

10:00am to 1:00pm

COME CELEBRATE WITH US! 2/22-2/23

Palace Art 76th Anniversary • Schedule of Events

• First 75 customers (both days) will receive a free tote bag of goodies/limit 1 per family.

• Visit our Prize Table and spin & win valuable coupons or prizes!

• Most demos are 10-15 minutes, so there’s an opportunity to try a lot of great products!

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22 ND

Ryan Sward FW Ink on Strathmore Papers

Dawn McKay Aitoh / Collage and Origami

Gary Lange Chartpak / Kuretaki

*Andrew Cook Sennelier Oil Sticks / RGM Paint Knives

Chloe Knutson POSCA Acrylic Markers / Art Alternatives Mini Canvas

*Amber Engfer Jacquard Cyanotype Demonstration

*Melissa West Speedball Block Printing Demonstration

*Suzy Radonsky Acrylic Painting Demonstration w/ Amsterdam Acrylics/ Davinci Brush / Art Alternatives Canvas

*Maggie Renner Hellmann Oil Painting Demonstration w/ Gamblin Oils / Princeton Brush / Fredrix Canvas

Ryan Sward FW Ink on Strathmore cards

*Chris Koehler Pentel

Ryan Sward DAS Smart Modeling Clay

Dawn McKay Holbein Acryla Gouache / Davinci Brush / Stillman & Birn

Scott Stevenson Daniel Smith Watercolors and Gouache / Van Gogh Art Papers

*Jeff Olson Royal Talens Amsterdam Acrylics / Van Gogh Art Papers

2:00pm to 5:00pm

TIME

10:00am to 1:00pm

*Andrew Cook Sennelier Oil Pastels on Cromia Papers

Chloe Knutson POSCA Acrylic Markers / Art Alternatives

Palace Staff Stabilo Markers / Strathmore papers

*Heidi Woodmansee Mixed Media Demonstration w/ Winsor & Newton Watercolors / Faber Castell / Arches Watercolor Papers

*Christina Sayers Collage and Mixed Media Demonstration w/ Aitoh Paper / Liquitex / POSCA

*Toaa Dallo Oil Painting Demonstration w/ Winsor Newton Oils / Princeton Brush / Fredrix Canvas

*Marcelino “Chango” Cruz POSCA Acrylic Marker Demonstration on Surfboard & Driftwood

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23 RD

PRESENTER DESCRIPTION

Tom Woody Caran D’ache Supracolor / Neocolor II / Pablo Coloured Pencils

*Alden Knight Speedball Screen Printing

Scott Stevenson Daniel Smith Watercolors and Gouache / Van Gogh Art Papers

*Jeff Olson Finetech Watercolors / Van Gogh Art Papers

*Andrew Cook Sennelier Oil Pastels on Cromia Paper

Chloe Knutson POSCA Acrylic Markers / Art Alternatives

Palace Staff Sakura Gellyroll

*Kelli Foss Acrylic Painting Demonstration w/ Golden Acrylics / Davinci Brush / Art Alternatives Canvas

*Janet Ferraro Oil Painting and Drawing Demonstration w/ Gamblin Oils / General Pencil Charcoals / Fredrix Canvas

*Jason Cohen Oil Painting Demonstration w/ Winsor & Newton Oils / Princeton Brush / Art Alternatives Canvas

Herman Kron Bristle Magic. Brush cleaners and conditioning

2:00pm to 5:00pm Palace Staff Copic Alcohol Markers

*Alden Knight Speedball Screen Printing

*Andrew Cook Sennelier Oil Sticks / RGM Paint Knives

*Kristen Brown Liquitex Bio-Based Heavy Acrylics / Liquitex Recycled Canvas

*Ryan Martin Winsor & Newton ProMarker Art Markers

Chloe Knutson POSCA Acrylic Markers / Art Alternatives

*Evelyn Jenkins Drew Acrylic Painting Demonstration w/ Golden Acrylics / Simply Simmons Brushes / Art Alternatives Canvas

*Sharon Medler Watercolor Demonstration w/ Daniel Smith Watercolors / Hahnemuhle Papers / Simply Simmons Brushes

*Victoria Galitzine Gamblin Oils / Davinci Brush / Legion Art Panels

*Carolyn Fitz Pen & Ink Demonstration w/ Pilot Parallel Pens / Canson XL Papers

Herman Kron Bristle Magic. Brush cleaners and conditioning

*LOCAL INDEPENDENT ARTIST

EPA: No Risk to Public Test Say Airborn Hydrogen Fluoride Levels are Below Danger Levels

EDITOR’S NOTE: Were Air Monitors

Deployed Soon Enough? This is the EPA announcement on air monitoring after the lithium battery storage plant fire in Moss Landing, released Jan. 16

On Jan. 20, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency concluded supplemental air monitoring in the vicinity of the Vistra Energy battery power storage facility fire in Moss Landing.

Results for hydrogen flouride and particulate matter showed no risk to public health throughout the incident, and smoke from the facility has greatly diminished. The EPA demobilized air monitoring operations after consultation with the Monterey County Incident Command for the Vistra fire.

WEPA began monitoring for hydrogen flouride, a highly toxic gas produced by lithiumion battery fires, and for particulate matter after the fire began on Jan. 16. The request for air monitoring came from Monterey County.

Monitoring stations were sited to account for changes in wind direction and potential drift to nearby communities.

As part of the multi-agency emergency response, EPA installed a total of nine monitoring stations shortly after the fire started. Two monitoring stations were located at the facility and four just outside the facility, including one at Moss Landing.

Three monitoring stations were located in communities due east of the fire, to the south near Castroville, and to the north in the vicinity of Moss Landing Middle School.

EPA’s monitoring showed concentrations of particulate matter to be consistent with the air quality index throughout the Monterey Bay and San Francisco Bay regions, with no measurements exceeding the moderate air quality level. Hydrogen flouride gas was measured at one second intervals and there were no exceedances of California’s human health standards.

In addition to EPA’s monitoring, Vistra Energy brought in a third-party environmental consultant with air monitoring expertise, right after the fire started, to

conduct roaming and fixed air monitoring in communities.

Air monitoring stations have been installed where EPA’s stations had been located to continue air monitoring as the response progresses. An air monitor location map is located at the County’s incident website. n Information is posted at: https://www. readymontereycounty.org/emergency/2025-mosslanding-vistra-power-plant-fire.

Editor’s follow up: “Boring Jeff,” host of KSCO Driver’s Seat car talk show, who lives four miles from the lithium plant, says air monitors were posted in the wrong location, near Hwy 1, when a dark cloud of emissions was above Watsonville. He says drones should have been used to take samples, and sooner, on Jan. 15.

State Energy Commission: Who are They?

hen Vistra encountered opposition to its proposed lithium battery storage plant in Morro Bay, the company said it would seek approval from the California Energy Commission.

The commission has three lithium battery power plants under review.

The Governor appoints, with Senate confirmation, five commissioners to the California Energy Commission to staggered five-year terms. The commissioners must come from and represent specific areas of expertise: Law, environment, economics, science/engineering, and the public at large.

There is no fire safety expertise.

David Hochschild

Environmental member, appointed 2013 and reappointed 2019, currently chairman

He got involved in the solar energy field in 2001 as a special assistant to San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown where he launched a citywide $100 million initiative to put solar panels on public buildings.

He also cofounded the Vote Solar

“Metro” from page 16

Despite our best efforts to keep our buses operational, these unexpected issues have forced us to strategically cancel trips in order to minimize disruptions as much as possible.

Recently, as we prepared to introduce our Winter Schedule with additional service upgrades promised under Reimagine Metro, it became clear that our current fleet could not sustain these increases.

After much deliberation, I made the difficult decision to continue with the Fall schedule, with a few exceptions.

Specifically, Route 16 has been temporarily suspended to better allocate resources for high-demand areas on the UC Santa Cruz campus, while Route 90X has been suspended based on an evaluation of ridership

Initiative, a 60,000-member advocacy organization promoting solar policies at the local, state, and federal levels. He was executive director of a national consortium of leading solar manufacturers and worked for five years at Solaria, a solar company in Silicon Valley. From 2007 to 2008, he was a commissioner of the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission.

For his work to advance clean energy, Hochschild was given the Sierra Club’s Trailblazer Award, the American Lung Association’s Clean Air Hero Award, and the U.S. Department of Energy’s Million Solar Roof True Champion Award.

He has a bachelor’s degree from Swarthmore College and a master of public

trends and overall system needs to ensure the most equitable use of resources across all routes.

We recognize the frustration and inconvenience this may cause, and for that, I sincerely apologize.

As your CEO, I am committed to transparency and to learning from these challenges so we can better serve you in the future.

To prevent similar challenges in the future, we are developing and implementing internal Standard Operating Procedures to ensure we anticipate and address such issues proactively. This is one of many deliberate steps we are taking to transform Metro from a good organization into a world-class transit system, delivering exceptional service and reliability to our community.

policy degree from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

Siva Gunda Public member Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed Gunda in February 2021. Appointed vice chair in September 2021. Gunda was deputy director for the Energy Commission’s Energy Assessments Division. The division forecasts and assesses energy demands and supplies. Previously he worked at the Energy Efficiency Institute at UC Davis, including as director of research, where he directed the institute’s operations and research portfolio.

“Energy Commission” page 20

Metro’s updated Winter Schedule and Winter Headways are now available online, and all service changes can be viewed on Metro’s Bulletins page. For real-time bus information, please use the Transit App, Google Maps, or Metro Real-Time, where you can also subscribe to receive alerts. I deeply appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate these growing pains. We are actively working on long-term solutions, including fleet modernization, to ensure a more reliable and sustainable transit system for all. Thank you for your continued support and trust in Metro. My goal is to always be transparent and honest with the people of Santa Cruz County. n

David Hochschild

Siva Gunda

Our Community Reads Flight Behavior

EVENTS

Saturday, Feb. 1 • 1 to 3 pm

Poetry Writing Workshop

In a creative and supportive setting, poet-teacher Magdalena Montagne will guide you in writing poems inspired by the many themes of Barbara Kingsolver’s Flight Behavior — identity, belonging, climate activism, & social justice. No experience necessary; appropriate for teens and up. Scotts Valley Branch Library — 251 Kings Valley Road. Register at https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/13811589

Wednesday, Feb. 5 • 6:30 pm

Displaced: How Climate Change is Causing Dislocation and Economic Hardship in Latin America & Beyond

Nick Rowell, Professor of Political Science at Cabrillo College, discusses how natural disasters and severe shifts in weather are destroying human habitats and forcing entire communities to abandon their homes and livelihoods, unwillingly joining the growing numbers of climate refugees.

Aptos Branch Library — 7695 Soquel Drive, and via Zoom. Register at https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/13811682

Friday, Feb. 7 • 11 a.m.

Preschool Story Time

Join librarian Rowan Rammer for great stories and a butterfly craft activity related to Flight Behavior, by Barbarea Kingsolver

Aptos Branch Library — 7695 Soquel Dr. No registration needed.

Saturday, Feb. 8 • 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 8th Annual Migration Festival

On, will host the 38th Annual Migration Festival celebrating migratory creature such as monarch butterflies that come to the Santa Cruz coast every year. There will be talks, games, crafts and music. Natural Bridges State Park — 2531 W. Ciff Drive, Santa Cruz

Thursday, Feb. 13 • 6:30 p.m.

Timber! A History of Local Logging and the Path Toward Sustainability

A thought-provoking discussion of logging in our local forests. How proper logging practices and private landownership have come into conflict regarding protected species, and how natural disasters, especially fires, have impacted environmental policy.

Panelists: Ed Orre, Cal Fire division chief, Resource Management for the Santa Clara Unit; Lisa Robinson, president of the San Lorenzo Valley Museum, member of the Conference of California Historical Societies and the Society of California Archivists; and Bryan Largay, conservation director of the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County.

Moderated by Judi Heher of the Friends of the Scotts Valley Library.

Scotts Valley Branch Library — 251 Kings Valley Road (Also on Zoom)

Register at https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/13813015

Wednesday, Feb. 19 • 6:30 pm

On the Move: How Climate Change is Disrupting our Natural Habitats and Causing Unintended Migration

A discussion of factors causing displacement and population reduction of both marine and terrestrial creatures on the Central Coast. Panelists are Catherine Courtier (PhD candidate, UC Davis and NOAA SWFSC) and Paige Kouba (PhD, UC Davis).

Moderater Lauren Hanneman, associate faculty, Cabrillo College Department of Environmental Studies.

Live Oak Library Annex at Simpkins Family Swim Center — 979 17th Ave., Santa Cruz. Register at https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/13813426

Saturday, Feb. 22 • 1 p.m.

Musing on Monarchs ~ Art Workshop

Observe, draw, and write in this unique art experience, facilitated by artists and art educators Sharon Ferguson and Jo-Neal Graves. Your interest and love of the natural world are the only requirements.

Capitola Branch Library — 2005 Wharf Road, Capitola Register at https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/13813483

Tuesday, March 4 • 6 pm

Film: Flight of the Butterflies

The stunning cinematography of this Canadian film follows Monarch butterflies on their migration from Canada, across the U.S., to remote overwintering sanctuaries in Mexico, where they settle in the hundreds of millions.

Before the film, Martha Nitzberg, interpretive ranger at Natural Bridges State Beach, will share her expertise on the Monarchs of Santa Cruz.

Art works from an Aptos High School student art competition, redesigning the Flight Behavior book cover, will be shown. Judges are staff members of Bookshop Santa Cruz and Two Birds Books.

Aptos Branch Library — 7695 Soquel Drive, Aptos. Register at https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/13813578

Saturday, March 8 • 10:30 am From Manzanita to Milkweed: Plants to Support Monarchs & Pollinators

Get to know the best native California flowering plants for your home garden. Learn how to source the plants and propagate some of them from seed. (Seeds will be shared, plus a list of resources.)

With 20 years of California native plant experience, UC Master Gardener Janice Kuch has worked on local habitat restoration projects, including a current native plant garden project at San Juan Bautista State Historic Park. Felton Branch Library — 6121 Gushee St., Felton. Register at https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/13814097

Thursday, March 13 • 6 pm

Trivia Night

The Santa Cruz Public Library’s Victor Willis poses challenging questions inspired by Flight Behavior, its setting and subject matter. Book groups may participate, or you can fly solo.

Meet upstairs (there’s elevator access). Food and drink available for purchase. Help wrap up another stimulating and entertaining Our Community Reads!

Art works from a Scotts Valley High School student art competition, redesigning the Flight Behavior book cover, will be shown. Judges are staff members of Bookshop Santa Cruz and Two Birds Books.

Bruno’s Bar and Grill @ Kings Village Shopping Center — 230 Mount Hermon Road, Scotts Valley. n Register at https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/13814105

Barbara Kingsolver

Looking for Mr./Ms. Right?

Deborah Graham, the host of TLC’s The Psychic Matchmaker and the popular podcast “Psychic Connection with Deborah Graham,” shares six secrets and no-nonsense practical tips she has used to match thousands of individuals. She says that finding true love begins with a commitment— clearing away fake romantic notions that stop a person from forming real bonds with Mr./ Ms. Right, because they’re focused only on one’s perfect appearance, perfect career goals, and income. What about their heart and soul?

“You have to pull the weeds away from your heart and soul and keep pulling,” she says. “If you can create positive, vibrant energy within yourself, you will emit positive vibrations. But if you believe that life sucks, it will suck, and you’ll never find what you’re looking for.”

“Energy Commission” from page 18

He has a master of science degree in mechanical and aeronautical engineering from Utah State University and is pursuing his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering from UC Davis. He is a serious cricket fan and former captain of his college team. He lives with his family in Davis.

Noemí O. Gallardo

Attorney member

Appointed by Gov. Gavin Newsom in February 2023, she is the first Latina appointment.

She is lead commissioner for the Clean Energy Hall of Fame Awards, an annual event honoring Californians who help

Her six secrets:

1) Trust in your inner “fabulousness” Trust in your inner self-confidence because, ultimately, people gravitate toward you.

2) Don’t let first impressions clog up the first date Take some time to look at the person first because, like you, they may feel a bit anxious at “hello” to reveal their true self.

3) Give in to the Dating Rules of Three — Always go on at least three dates with the person within three weeks. Always wait three months before you consummate the relationship. If you follow that plan, intimacy will feel more important and less disposable, like a thumbnail pic on a dating app.

4) Recognize your “twin flame” soulmate

— When you’re connecting with someone on a spiritual level rather than a purely physical, sexual, or materialistic one—expand your focus and shift your energies to the real heart and soul of a person to attract the ultimate soul mate: a “twin flame.”

5) Recognize the glaring red flags of an “energy vampire” — These are people who only talk about themselves, what they own, and what they won’t compromise,

advance the state’s goals of 100% clean energy by 2045.

She joined the CEC in 2019 as Public Advisor, then became chief of staff for CEC Chair David Hochschild.

Previously she was senior manager of public policy at solar power company Sunrun Inc. She was an energy and telecommunications legal fellow at the Greenlining Institute, and a principal investigator at the Public Law Research Institute at UC College of the Law San Francisco.

She is a state-certified interpreter in

for starters. If they’re not interested in you now, they won’t give a hoot what you’re about tomorrow.

6) Know when to say goodbye — Even if you’ve invested much time and energy

Spanish who established and ran a translation and interpretation services business in Ventura County.

The daughter of Mexican immigrants and a proud mother of two, she is a first-generation college graduate who earned a Juris Doctor degree from UC Law SF, a master of public policy degree from the University of Southern California, and a bachelor’s degree from Pepperdine University.

J. Andrew McAllister, Ph.D. Economist appointed in 2012, and reappointed by Gov. Newsom to a third term in 2022.

in the relationship, trust your gut instinct when you know it won’t work. Why waste time on Mr./Ms. Wrong, when the “Rights” are right around the corner? n

He chairs the Western Interstate Energy Board and serves on the boards of the National Association of State Energy Officials, the Smart Electric Power Alliance, and Camp Kesem at UC Davis.

He has a master’s and Ph.D. from the Energy and Resources Group at the UC Berkeley, and bachelor’s from Dartmouth College.

He was a U.S. Peace Corps volunteer. Nancy Skinner Science and engineering member, succeeding Patricia Monahan, whose five-year term ended.

Priorities include: Decarbonization of buildings and industry; energy efficiency of buildings and appliances; load flexibility as a tool for grid optimization; improving access to data and analytical tools that can drive innovation at the grid edge; alignment of energy and housing policy & programs; and amplifying California’s innovation-centered approach through collaboration with diverse partners beyond its borders.

He was managing director of a California-based clean energy non-profit; energy efficiency and renewable energy specialist at an international development contractor; utility energy efficiency program consultant; and researcher at a DOE national laboratory. He has worked in numerous countries to deploy clean, cost-effective energy solutions.

Appointed Jan. 7, a Democrat and Berkeley resident, she was a state senator from 2016 to 2024 and left office due to term limits. She was a State Assembly member from 2008 to 2014 and started her political career as a Berkeley City Council member.

She collaborated with the Union of Concerned Scientists as a legislator, committed to expanding clean energy and holding the fossil fuel industry accountable.

That work included SB 59, legislation on bidirectional electric vehicle charging that UCS sponsored and that passed in September. Skinner worked with the Energy and Efficiency Institute at UC Davis; Goldman School of Public Policy at UC Berkeley; The Climate Group; and Earthworks Press. She has degrees from UC Berkeley. n

Noemí O. Gallardo

J. Andrew McAllister

Nancy Skinner

The beauty of cork, wood and laminates

Featuring Graber and Hunter Douglas Custom Draperies and Roman Shades!

United Way Taps Yvette Brooks as CEO

This year, United Way of Santa Cruz County has a new executive director

Yvette Brooks, the first Latina mayor of Capitola, who served six years on the Capitola City Council and headed the nonprofit Your Future is Our Business.

United Way of Santa Cruz County is a nonprofit with a $5 million budget and about 23 employees with a focus on education, health, and financial stability advocating, volunteering, and giving to improve the lives of local residents, particularly the youth, to thrive in school and life.

Brooks is the first Latina CEO of United Way of Santa Cruz County. She succeeds Keisha Browder, the first Black in that role, serving since 2018 and who on Oct. 21 became executive director of United Way Bay Area.

Hajime Arnold, board chair for United Way of Santa Cruz County, said that Brooks’ “proven leadership abilities and deep roots in our community make her the ideal choice to lead our organization forward. We are confident that under her guidance, United Way will continue to strengthen its impact in Santa Cruz County, helping individuals and families thrive through our focus on education, health, and financial stability.

Legacy of Mayor Yvette Brooks

As Yvette Brooks left the City Council, she highlighted accomplishments during her six years:

• Infrastructure: Collaborating with state and federal officials to secure funding for rebuilding Capitola’s iconic wharf and community center, while helping complete the construction of the City’s state-of-the-art library. Brooks also supported long-awaited improvements to Clares and Brommer Streets.

• Fiscal Responsibility: Spearheading the Measure Y campaign to stabilize Capitola’s budget, ensuring raises for city employees and the Capitola Police Department.

• Community: Partnering with County Park Friends to raise $1 million for the new Treasure Cove playground at Jade Street Park, transforming it into an inclusive playground where families and children of all abilities can play together.

• Equity and Inclusivity: Developing strong policies with a focus on equity, including creating a Code of Conduct, allocating funding for anti-bias training for Council members and staff, and supporting the passing of Capitola’s first flag policy to fly the LGBTQIA+ flag during Pride Month.

• Public Health: Leading the charge to ban flavored tobacco in Capitola, prioritizing the health of residents.

• Youth Advocacy: Spearheading a successful ballot initiative in 2018 to increase the city’s TOT tax to create a

He added, “The board and I look forward to working closely with Yvette to serve our community’s evolving needs.”

United Way supports the Cradle to Career initiative, First Five Santa Cruz County and 211 information service and hosts the Youth Action Network.

“It has truly been an honor serving on the City Council for the past six years,” said Brooks. “I ran on a platform of supporting our community, focusing on the well-being of all residents and the youth living here. Now, I have the opportunity to serve the entire County of Santa Cruz, embracing United Way’s mission to ignite our community to give, advocate, and volunteer so that our youth succeed in school and life, our residents are healthy, and our families are financially independent. While it is an extremely difficult decision to step down from the Council, I recognize the best way to continue to contribute to Capitola and this county I love, is to dedicate all of my time and efforts to the United Way role.” n

dedicated children’s fund, collaborating with Soquel Union School District to expand after-school and middle school programs and establishing Capitola’s Youth Liaison program

“It has been wonderful working alongside our tremendous City staff who

work tirelessly, our outstanding Police Department, and my fellow Councilmembers,” Brooks said. “I could not have achieved these milestones without the support of my colleagues and the collaboration of the countywide boards and commissions I’ve been privileged to serve on.”

She added, “Thank you, Capitola, for believing in me and allowing me to serve you.”

City Manager Jamie Goldstein said, “Mayor Brooks’ leadership has left a lasting impact on the Capitola community, and her dedication to service will undoubtedly benefit the broader Santa Cruz County.” n

Yvette Brooks with her family in 2022

This Summer, Be a Better Traveler

When I lived in Athens a few years ago, I stumbled across a wall freshly spray-painted with the words: “TOURISTS GO HOME!” I was so stunned by it that I had to take a picture.

Today, I probably wouldn’t even notice it. Not after the recent anti-tourism protests in Barcelona and after Venice imposed a $ 5-a-day fee for day visitors.

Tourists are — how do I say this politely? — disliked. And with good reason. More than half of travelers say they’ve behaved out of character while on vacation, according to a recent internal survey conducted by the luggage storage company Radical Storage. That can include posing in inappropriate ways with statues, trespassing or disrespecting local customs. And 42% even admit to breaking laws while abroad.

I warned about bad tourists two years ago. I hate it when I’m right.

“American tourists are known to be loud and demanding,” says Adeodata Czink, an etiquette expert. “And they did not disappoint last summer.”

It hasn’t stopped. I live in Dublin, where large groups of American, German and Brazilian tourists clog the narrow streets of Temple Bar and drink themselves to oblivion every night. It’s shameful.

But there’s good news. The locals aren’t angry at all visitors, and if you happen to be on the blacklist, there’s an easy way to get off, and stay off. And yes, you can still visit Paris and Rome.

Drunk & Instagram

First, a little good news: The locals don’t hate all tourists.

“The backlash is against rowdy bachelor and bachelorette parties who are interested mostly in getting drunk,” explains Don Jones, a managing director for Andrew Harper, a travel membership site. “And it’s against Instagrammers swarming certain places and disregarding common courtesy to get the right shot.”

some proven strategies for being loved by your destination:

Go where you’re appreciated . Now is the time when many Americans are considering a summer vacation destination. If a place is openly hostile to visitors, avoid it. “There is a growing trend in which travelers make travel decisions based on political, social and cultural beliefs,” says Berkita Bradford, chair of the hospitality and tourism administration department at North Carolina Central University.

Show some respect . Be a responsible traveler, says Nicole Cueto, a travel advisor with Fora Travel. “Practice sustainable tourism by minimizing your environmental impact and supporting eco-friendly initiatives,” she advises. That includes reducing waste, conserving water, and respecting wildlife.

Destination Fights Back

Some places are already doing something beyond charging for admission to their

By Christopher Elliott

city centers. Back in 2020, when misbehaving tourists were starting to become a major problem, Visit Idaho introduced a program designed to attract more responsible and sustainable visitors to the state.

Its campaign, called Travel With Care, emphasized caring for the state, caring for others and caring for yourself. Practically speaking, Idaho encouraged travelers to protect the land and outdoor spaces, be considerate of others, and prioritize personal safety.

There are no measurable results of Idaho’s efforts to promote kindness to the land and fellow travelers. But that’s exactly the point. No one is defacing the walls of the ski lodges with “TOURISTS GO HOME!” in Sun Valley, nor has anyone suggested charging tourists to walk down Main Street in Boise.

Rather, tourism officials say these actions have helped both the tourism industry and tourists. “It’s gone a long way to encourage everyone to work together to keep travelers and residents happy,” says Natalie Jushinski, a tourism manager at Visit Idaho.

“Better Traveler” page 26

If that’s not you, then you already have an advantage.

If it is you, and you happen to be reading this insightful column, stop being you. Consume alcohol in moderation, or better yet, stay sober and enjoy the new place you’re visiting. Also, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but no one cares about your Instagram account. Sheathe your smartphone and take in the view with your own eyes.

How to be a Good Tourist

You don’t have to be one of those visitors this spring break or during the upcoming summer travel season. Here are

Know the drill . One of the best ways to improve your image is to brush up on the local customs of your destination traveling. “Show genuine interest in the local culture,” says Nick Leighton, an etiquette expert and co-host of the weekly podcast, Were You Raised By Wolves? . “It generates goodwill and helps avoid causing offense inadvertently.”

You’ll also want to pack two important things, says etiquette coach Jamila Musayeva: Your patience and kindness.

“Treat the locals with the same courtesy you’d expect in your own hometown,” she says. “When things don’t go as planned, like a delayed flight or a wrong meal order, stay calm and handle it with grace. Your attitude not only affects your experience but also leaves an impression on those around you.”

That’s not to say you’re entirely responsible for everyone hating on tourists.

Destinations are working toward a detente, too.

A Water Agency’s Perspective on Fighting Wildfires

As a water agency, we see firsthand the vital role water plays in every aspect of life—from meeting daily needs (cooking, cleaning, and bathing), growing food, irrigating parks, and protecting communities in times of crisis. The recent wildfires devastating Southern California have brought the importance of water into sharp focus. Our hearts go out to those communities as we still remember the Paradise fire in 2018 and the CZU fires in Santa Cruz County back in 2020.

as the fire in Capitola Village on Christmas Day. Typical urban fires are caused by events such as electrical faults, gas leaks, and cooking accidents with the spread usually limited to the properties where the fire started or in the nearby vicinity.

When firefighters open fire hydrants to fight an urban fire, vast quantities of water are withdrawn rapidly to fight the fire and can cause the pressure to drop throughout the system. This can reduce water availability for other hydrants.

Not Designed for Wildfires

2025 COASTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS

By Rebecca Gold Rubin

The L.A. wildfires of this magnitude posed an unprecedented challenge.

As storage tanks deplete, wells and pumps turn on to refill them. For typical urban fires, we utilize real-time monitoring of our water tanks, the water pressures and flows in our distribution system as well as maintain our emergency generators in case our wells or pumps are impacted during a power outage.

With wildfires, especially like those that occurred in the LA area, urban water systems are not designed to combat catastrophic fires of that magnitude, with water coming solely from fire hydrants — alternative methods such as tanker trucks and aircraft or other aerial resources are extremely critical and necessary.

Protecting Water Quality

Fires also threaten water quality. High temperatures can damage water infrastructure, such as melting pipes, and also allows contaminants such as ash, debris, and even fire retardants to enter the system.

continue to grow: maintaining reliable supplies for daily use, implementing environmental protection related to drought, climate change, and seawater intrusion, and planning for long-term resiliency are all prevalent.

The District, as part of the Santa Cruz Mid-County Groundwater Agency, has been working hard on the Mid-County’s groundwater sustainability plan which includes water efficiency, groundwater management, and supplemental water supplies such as Pure Water Soquel and aquifer storage and recovery projects. The District also continues to work with local agencies to support water transfers and emergency interties.

Accurate Information

As disasters unfold, misinformation can muddy the waters of public understanding. Many people still don’t understand that the L.A. utilities didn’t run out of water.

We are seeing many of the L.A. area utilities (similar to the recent CZU and Paradise fires) have issued “Do Not Drink,” “Do Not Use,” or “Boil-Water” notices as the water quality testing is being performed and contamination can be addressed.

It’s important that after urban fires or wildfires, impacted community members check with their water providers regarding the water quality of water to their homes or businesses. This adds another important layer of complexity to disaster response.

Climate Impacts

Wildfires are no longer rare events. Rising temperatures, extended droughts, and more intense weather patterns are straining water resources across California. Even when precipitation does occur, it is often in the form of short, intense storms, leading to runoff rather than meaningful replenishment of aquifers and reservoirs.

Challenges for our local water agencies

From our vantage point, we encourage the community to seek information from trusted sources, including fire departments, emergency services, city/county/state officials, and water utilities. Accurate, timely information is crucial to understanding the complexities of these events and responding effectively, and how people can get help when they need it.

A Commitment

Water is life. It sustains us, protects us, and connects us. As stewards of this vital resource, we carry a profound responsibility to manage it wisely and ensure it remains available for all — especially in times of crisis.

The scale of the L.A. wildfires is almost incomprehensible, but it drives home the importance of both emergency preparedness and the realities of natural disasters.

We want to express our heartfelt thoughts to the Southern California families affected by these fires, the firefighters risking their lives on the frontlines, the tireless water utility workers, and the communities rallying to recover.

LA Wildfires • Photo Credit: Alekz Londos

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Citrus: Summery For Winter

By Tony Tomeo

Citrus trees are not like deciduous fruit trees. They are not marketable as bare root stock. They do not need winter pruning. Actually, winter pruning might initiate premature growth that is vulnerable to frost. Deciduous fruit trees remain dormant, so can only dream about fruiting for next summer. Citrus trees are happily evergreen, and fruiting abundantly now.

is a bitter orange for infusing with Grand Marnier cognac.

Citrus somehow seem to be more summery than fruit that actually ripen for summer. Iced lemonade is so traditional for warm summer weather. Oranges for Christmas might seem to be out of season when they really are not. Although Mandarin oranges are perishable, other ripe citrus last for weeks or months. Several ripen sporadically throughout the year.

“Valencia” oranges, which are the traditional juicing oranges, might last through summer. They may sustain the belief that orange juice is a summery beverage. Several grapefruit cultivars can last about as long. “Eureka” lemon is mostly seasonal, but also generates a few fruits throughout the year. “Bearss” lime may be even more productive out of season.

With only one exception, all species and cultivars of citrus are of the same Citrus genus. Kumquats are of the Fortunella genus, but typically qualify as Citrus for simplicity. Citrus fruit is sweet, sour or bitter. Most familiar oranges are sweet. “Seville” is a sour orange for marmalade. “Bouquet de Fleur”

Oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, kumquats and Mandarins are all very familiar. All of these fruits are available from grocery markets. Their trees grow in many home gardens. Tangerines are simply Mandarins or Mandarin oranges of the Americas. Pomelos, which are larger ancestors of grapefruits, are still uncommon. So are tiny and tart calamondins. They are not the most unusual, though. Blood oranges provide tangy red juice.

“Rangpur” lime is a sour Mandarin orange that is as acidic as a “Eureka” lemon. Tangelos combines the tartness of grapefruits with the sweetness of Mandarin oranges. Sweet limes lack the acidity of typical limes, so are for eating like oranges. These are merely a few examples.

•••

‘Eureka’ Lemon Lisbon” lemon was the original. It is still a common cultivar for orchard production of fruit for lemon products. Because almost all of its fruit ripens in winter, it can not provide fresh fruit continuously.

“Eureka” lemon, which is a mutant of “Lisbon” lemon, may compensate. It is not as productive in season, but only because it also provides lemons out of season.

‘Eureka’ and ‘Lisbon’ lemons are indistinguishable.

This complicates orchard harvest, but is justifiable by prolonging the supply of fresh fruit. It is more ideal for home gardens where only a few lemons are needed at a time anyway. Besides, seasonal abundance within home gardens can become too much of a surplus.

“Eureka” lemons are not as richly flavorful as “Meyer” lemons, but are more acidically tart.

“Eureka” lemon trees, even on dwarfing understock, can eventually grow fifteen feet high. They are generally not quite as wide as they are tall. Their nastily sharp thorns are stout. Vigorous stems develop much longer and potentially dangerous thorns. Foliar fragrance is mild, but can be delightful during warm weather. Glossy evergreen foliage is aromatic when disturbed by lemon collection.

Nodal Changes Continued — Journey of Maturation

• February 2025 •

“Better Traveler” from page 23

After traveling through Libra and Aries since July 17, 2023, the Lunar Nodes now begin to transit through the Virgo-Pisces axis, remaining there until July 27, 2026. Every eighteen months, a subtle new path is offered to humanity as the nodes of destiny shift.

We embark on a year-and-a-half journey that furthers our evolution and where the spiritual and the mundane integrate. This journey is a journey of maturation and it involves points in space (and in the astrology chart) called the North and South Nodes.

On January 11 (2025) the Lunar Nodes entered Pisces (North Node) and Virgo (South Node). We are always moving from the South Node (the past) to the North Node (present/future, life purpose, a new life path). Eventually, as we near the North Node (destiny), the South Node’s door closes. We are unable to go back or return to South Node. Often this reality is quite difficult. The areas of life, people, events, etc. we have been comfortable with are no longer accessible. Eventually we realize a new reality and new life rhythm has begun. A new path appears. We are reluctant at first.

ARIES

There will be much to ponder upon as ideas flow into your mind like lightning bolts providing new information concerning who you are, who you are supposed to be, your choices as you prepared for this lifetime, and how to combine all into a synthetic unity. It’s done by first understanding your family history, then knowing we are our ancestors, and realizing we are here to love and to heal each other – family and friends, including ourselves. Then we move upward.

TAURUS

Like Aries, thoughts are flowing through your mind like fire from Mars which is presently retrograde and truly they are. Mars is the god of war, but also of passion and hopes, wishes and dreams which we need to move onward and upward on the evolutionary Jacob’s Ladder. You almost seem lost in realms none of us understand, perceive or even vaguely experience. Remain there as long as possible for the information received may well save the world. Do take time for walking, swimming, exercising, tending to the garden and eating correctly, lest you fall down and forget who you are.

GEMINI

The planets are gathered in Pisces, — your tenth house of world and professional recognition, the place where you offer your gifts to others, and in turn where you receive a cosmic invitation to help create the new culture and civilization. This is a serious, esoteric statement that I know, if you are reading this, you can understand. Chiron in Aries is providing us with new self-identity, one in which we are pushed to study, which rebuilds our mind. Then we aspire to build everything new. You are called to do this. Begin to read Externalization of the Hierarchy by Alice A. Bailey. If you have questions, write me.

CANCER

An expanded mind is attempting to form within you, a mind that not only contemplates self and family, but includes thoughts on child tending, justice (why is it blinded?) and philosophy (Ancient Wisdom teachings). As you may travel or be considering it, there are five locations that are actually spiritual inlets - New York City, London, Geneva, Darjeeling and Tokyo. The U.S. has five known charkas: New York City, Washington, DC, Chicago, Kansas City, Missouri, and Los Angeles. Should you visit these areas, greet its protective Deva (overseeing Angel).

Risa D’Angeles

Over the next 18+ months, due to the nodal changes, we will express ourselves differently. The north node calls us to new expressions and new realities. We develop new qualities and virtues. We gradually realize the south node pathway is no longer available.

With the Nodes in Pisces/Virgo, the focus is cultivating compassion, spirituality, service, love, health and healing. Pisces North Node embraces the unknown, encourages faith & trust in the divine flow of life and love energies and we journey inward. Virgo South Node gives us a deeper level of recognition and the value for order and organization, and lessening rigid overthinking, overanalyzing, and overworry.

As the North Node calls to us, the South Node gradually closes its door. Pisces north node calls each of us to inward to deep creative expressions. Virgo south node helps us release our need for perfection, any rigid routines, and over-analysis. They don’t help us thrive anymore. We are moving away from Virgo’s focused detailed ways of being and moving toward expansive intuitive, dreamlike qualities of Pisces. We see the beauty and splendor of imperfection. n

LEO

Sometimes readers write me that they are confused and/or suffering. I respond with questions and also tell them that we have many lives and some of those lives we suffer tremendously, and that our God, Sanat Kumara from Venus, suffers too, with us. And that when we suffer we are able to share His burdens of suffering and alleviate them, providing Him a bit of rest and care. I also write that those who suffer understand others who suffer and that suffering eventually makes us healers. Someday, some time, somewhere, this has, is, or will occur for you. We stand with you as healers.

VIRGO

Reading all the zodiacal signs is a good practice. Our natal chart contains all twelve signs. You actually know this. You wonder what is written for your sign each week. All those planets in Pisces are hiding quietly in your seventh house of relationship, partnerships and intimacy. What is the quality of your present-day relationships? The purpose of planets in the 7th house is to offer Goodwill and harmony to all interactions. Can you do this? Can you have the intentions for Goodwill each day? Yes, you say. Happiness happens.

LIBRA

I’ve been writing to each sign about new identity and it’s occurring for you, Libra, within relationships as you become more and more aware of how you learn about yourself through relationships. You learn kindness and Goodwill in relationships and how to bring more harmony forth. Consider what is most valuable in your relationships and what you are seeking in each of them. New states of independence, courage and strength are emerging, helping you move forward on your own. Love appears again and again. And you learn to love more.

SCORPIO

Your life may be in upheaval and change, creating a new identity with daily life ideas, plans, agendas and work. Perhaps there’s desire (Mars) to do more and better or you seek to study new ideas (Mercury) that will outline the new culture, architecture and atmosphere (all Uranus) of all that you do each day, how you make money, and how to serve both yourself and others. This is a very involved and complex, yet simple and undemanding statement to you Scorpio. Absorb it slowly for understanding. Then gradually apply it.

SAGITTARIUS

Who you’ve been and what you identified as through your creative efforts (also fun, games and play) is now forming a foundation for who you’re going to be and how you’ll identify yourself in the future. You are in transition. Many things initiated now may not be completed because everything’s an experiment, like trying on new clothes, new hats, new culture, new friends. If you feel everything’s also a risk, it is. Life is trying to find its perfect next fit with you. One door closes, the other gradually opens. It’s in a mist now.

CAPRICORN

The family seeks the next level of intelligent love (Venus), a new wisdom (Pallas Athena) and new knowledge about family dynamics, along with new ways to communicate (Mercury) to move beyond any disharmony or misunderstandings. These create chaos and confusion. When you have enough rest and relaxation, when you exercise enough and have time to yourself, you are able to offer this information along with loving harmony. As always, have the intention for what’s needed and pray as a family to find, achieve and become a happy family.

AQUARIUS

Notice how you feel more smart, intelligent and brilliant, with ideas flowing into your mind so fast you can’t remember most of them. A great force is falling to earth now under the Capricorn Light Supernal, and then an even greater force (Ray 1) will be available throughout the new year. This year is called the Year of Precipitation for the New World Teacher. Be as attentive as you are able, jot down ideas for later use, study alchemy for inspiration. The new Aquarian art is coming. You’ll want to be the first to understand it, summon it, and thus create it.

PISCES

You will think about resources and values in new ways. Whereas most things in form and matter have seemed hidden from you, a new thought form of both preparation and of solutions appears in dreams and symbols. This is the language of the Rain Cloud of Knowable Things. A thought comes to me to understand the biblical transition of the Hebrew people on their journey from Egypt (Taurus) to Canaan/Israel (Aries). And from Pisces to Aquarius. Study biblical history. A new insight is needed. As well as an esoteric understanding of the Bible. You are to be one of the Teachers.

Best Advice: Avoid Crowds

Maybe the best way to avoid having a substandard travel experience is to go in the opposite direction of the crowd.

James Thornton, CEO of Intrepid Travel, told me 80% of travelers visit just 10% of the world’s tourism destinations. “There are so many amazing alternative destinations to choose from that will give you a fresh take on the world if you’re willing to go beyond the classic bucket list attractions,” he says.

That doesn’t necessarily mean avoiding popular places. I love Venice and Rome and Paris, and I think everyone should see these places at least once.

But if you go, visit during the off-season and stay away from the groups flocking to the popular museums and restaurants.

“Show an interest in the people,” advises Thomas Swick, author of **Falling into Place: A Story of Love, Poland and the Making of a Travel Writer**. “This entails leaving the well-trodden paths and exploring out-of-theway neighborhoods — every city has them — and experiencing the everyday life of the place.”

Who knows, he says. Maybe you’ll strike up a conversation that will tell you more than any landmark.

“And instead of abuse, you may get an invitation for coffee,” he says.

Now that’s how to travel. n

•••

Christopher Elliott is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded Elliott Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes Elliott Confidential, a travel newsletter, and the Elliott Report, a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can email him at chris@elliott.org. Illustration by Dustin Elliott.

Photo Credit: Dustin Elliott Christopher Elliott next to anti-tourist graffiti in the Vyronas neighborhood of Athens in 2022.

Santa Cruz County Ballers Hoop It Up at Tourney

By Jeff Dela Cruz

The gym was loud and the energy was high as local youth basketball teams met in the Holy Cross Gymnasium on Jan.11 for a New Year showdown. Teams gathered from Soquel, Santa Cruz, and Scotts Valley. In the 5th/6th Grade division, we had teams Surf City, SC Hoop it Up, and SC Dreamers.

The SC Dreamers dominated the Surf City team in a high-scoring game that ended with a final score of 40-21.

Finn Smith led the way for the Dreamers with an impressive display of shooting, sinking multiple three-pointers and two-point shots in the first half. Alex Donaldson also contributed significantly with his scoring prowess, making key shots from beyond the arc and inside the paint.

Despite efforts from Ryder Dela Cruz and Steve Yatson of Surf City, the Dreamers’ offensive firepower proved too much to handle. The Dreamers strong defense limited Surf City’s scoring opportunities, securing their victory in a commanding fashion.

Later in the evening, action in the 7th Grade division kicked off as The Live Oaks, SC Waves, and Erwin-Robinson teams faced off. When the final buzzer sounded, Santa Cruz’s Erwin-Robinson balanced scoring attack proved too much to handle, ultimately sealing the division winner.

The top scorers in the tournament were Alex Donaldson (SC Dreamers), Charlie Torres (SC Waves), William Robinson (Erwin-Robinson), and Finn Smith (SC Dreamers).

The New Year Tournament was Cruz Ball’s third local tournament.

The emerging nonprofit, headed by Scotts Valley Middle School basketball coach Jefferson Dela Cruz, hosts monthly competitive tournaments around Santa Cruz for 5th-8th grade boys, girls, and co-ed teams. Cruz Ball’s mission is to unite ballers and create a community for all to thrive.

Soquel High Band and Cheer

At each tournament, a “Very Impactful Player” award is given. Each team coach chooses the player who made the most positive impact.

In the 5th/6th division, Spencer Baker (Surf City), Finn Smith (SC Dreamers), and Colin Stengl (SC Hoop it Up) were the recipients of the VIP award.

Among the 7th graders, Hudson Harris (Erwin-Robinson), Dane Canderle (SC Waves), and Gabriel Urbieta (Live Oaks) were recognized. n

Pride

Future tournaments are scheduled monthly on the second Saturday. Interested teams can learn more at https://cruzball. org/register/, review player stats at https://cruzball. org/stats/, or follow at https://www.instagram. com/cruzball831/.

Cruz Ball Cupid All Girls Tournament will be on Feb. 8 for 5th/6th graders.

One of the charms of going to Soquel High School to see basketball games is listening to the band led by longtime music instructor Jim Stewart, who has led the Varsity Band, Concert and Jazz Band to win Gold awards and the Sweepstakes Honors at the Heritage Festival in Southern California.

Another is the Soquel High cheer squad, coached by Cory Montanez, performing acrobatic feats.

Collin Stengl, SC Hoop it up VIP

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

ANNOUNCEMENTS

CALL TO ARTISTS: JUVENILE HALL

An artist will be selected to create a site-specific public artwork for new and renovated components at the Juvenile Hall facility, 3650 Graham Hill Road.

The deadline for submitting a proposal is Feb. 21.

The gym will provide a state-required all-weather exercise and training facility for Juvenile Hall youth while the renovation will provide critical improvements to the aging facility as well as improvements to implement a new Seed-To-Table educational program. The proposed sitespecific artwork should either enhance the experience of the residents and staff within Juvenile Hall or the families and support persons visiting the facility.

Proposals for the exterior may be free-standing in the landscape areas by the facility entrance or teaching garden. Artists may propose murals, sculptural pieces, or other for the interior spaces; suggested locations include the kitchen/dining area, day-use rooms, or the gym.

Important: Short-listed artists must pass a required background check should they wish to continue in the selection process.

The budget for the project is $135,000.

A “Call to Artists” which includes detailed information about the process, plans/elevations and sample contract, is at: https:// www.scparks.com/Home/AboutUs/WorkWithUs/CalltoArtists.aspx

TREE SCHOOL

UC Cooperative Extension will host California Tree School at San Lorenzo Valley High School in Felton on Saturday, April 5.

There will be 25+ classes on forestry and natural resources throughout the day, led by regional and global experts on forestry, ecology, and natural resource management.

Topics include forest health, fire ecology, pile burning, prescribed burning and tax tips for forest owners. Classes range from beginner to expert level, and participants choose 4 classes.

The fee is $70; assistance is available. Email Kim Ingram at Registration is open at https://surveys.ucanr.edu/survey. cfm?surveynumber=44008

CALL FOR NATIVE AMERICAN ARTISTS

Becky Olvera Schultz is an indigenous artist of mixed blood, Mexican/Azteca/Kickapoo/ Shawnee from her father and Italian from her mother, and she is known for her masks. She is trying to get a Native Arts Market going for the spring. She is looking for other artists in this community who identify as indigenous to the Americas/Native American that create art or craft to participate. Contact her at becky@native-expressions.com or 831-295-7562.

BAY FEDERAL EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP

Bay Federal Credit Union is accepting applications for its 2025 Education Scholarship to support students as they pursue educational and career goals. The program will award up to three $1,500 scholarships to individuals enrolled in accredited colleges, universities, or trade schools.

Applications are open to Bay Federal members who demonstrate a commitment to their education and have a vision for the future of financial literacy. Interested applicants should submit their completed forms, proof of enrollment or acceptance, and essays by March 16. A panel of judges will review the submissions, and winners will be announced by April 30.

This year’s application asks students to reflect on the essay topic: How has technology impacted financial literacy and money management for your generation? Describe what improvements you would make to these educational resources to make them more broadly accessible and useful for young adults and others in your community.

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

“Our scholarship program is not just about financial assistance—it’s about celebrating the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers,” said Carrie Birkhofer, president and CEO of Bay Federal Credit Union. We’re looking forward to hearing their ideas on creating more inclusive, accessible financial resources for all.”

To access the online application, visit bayfed.com/scholarships.

LOW-COST SPAY/NEUTER CLINIC

The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter has again partnered with Animal Balance to provide 200 owned pets (100 cats and 100 dogs) with low-cost spay/neuter surgery, core vaccines, and a microchip Feb. 14- 16 at 2260 7th Ave, Santa Cruz. Registration is open at www.scanimalshelter.org

Fully licensed veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians from the international animal welfare organization Animal Balance will perform sterilization surgeries, with clinic support and assistance provided by local volunteers.

Spay and neuter surgeries are $150 for cats and $300 for dogs. Those on public assistance such as CalFresh or MediCal and can provide proof qualify for lower fees: $75 for a cat and $150 for a dog.

To be eligible for surgery, pets must be healthy, between 8 weeks and 8 years old, and weigh between 2 and 80 pounds. Dogs and cats with very short noses (such as pugs, bulldogs, Persian cats), senior pets, and those with known health problems are not eligible.

Registered pets will be dropped off at the Shelter’s “Education Center” (2260 7th Ave) in the morning of the scheduled day, and pick up is late afternoon of the same day. Owners will be called when their pet is ready, or before 5:30 p.m.

Fees are due at the time of registration, and fees are the same even if not all services are needed.

To sign up for an appointment, visit: https://bit.ly/ SpayNeuterFeb2025

“There’s really no such thing as “low-cost” spay/neuter,” said Dr. Maris Brenn-White, shelter veterinarian. “There is only subsidized spay/neuter, and we rely on donations … to provide this very important service.”

To provide financial or in-kind support for subsidized spay/neuter, visit www.scanimalshelterfoundation.org

YOUTH POET LAUREATE: APPLY NOW!

Santa Cruz Public Libraries with Urban Word, Watsonville Public Library, Santa Cruz County Office of Education, and Arts Council Santa Cruz County,

announces the call for applications to serve as the county’s second Youth Poet Laureate. This initiative celebrates the vibrant world of youth poetry and offers young poets a cross-county community.

The Santa Cruz County Youth Poet Laureate will serve a one-year term from April 2025 to April 2026, championing their own poetic endeavors while inspiring their peers to embrace the art of poetry.

This award offers reading and publication opportunities for the selected poet. Finalists are offered similar opportunities as part of a cohort of teen poets. The position is open to eligible individuals between age 13 and 18 who live in Santa Cruz County and can commit to serving locally throughout the year.

Workshops on “Creating Your Youth Poet Laureate Application” are scheduled for January and February:

• Thursday, Feb. 6, 4 p.m., Aptos Branch Library

• Thursday, Feb. 13, 4 p.m., Downtown Branch Library

• Saturday, Feb. 22, 11 a.m., Felton Branch Library Application Process

Eligible individuals who are passionate about poetry and eager to make a positive impact on their community are encouraged to apply. The deadline to apply is March 1.

Finalists will be announced March 31.

A free celebration of finalists and announcement of the 2025-2026 Santa Cruz County Youth Poet Laureate will take place 7 p.m. Thursday, April 17, at the Samper Recital Hall, Cabrillo College.

For details, visit the Youth Poet Laureate page at https:// sites.google.com/view/santa-cruz-youth-poet-laureate/ or reach out to Farnaz Fatemi at sasqi@mac.com.

PROJECT SCOUT TAX PREP ASSISTANCE

Project Scout offers volunteer income tax assistance and tax counseling for local residents during tax season at sites throughout Santa Cruz County.

Volunteers are trained by Internal Revenue Service and Franchise Tax Board personnel. For disabled individuals unable to get to the tax sites, they have trained volunteers who can do in-home tax preparation.

Seniors get priority at all library sessions.

Income of $64,000 and below, simple returns only.

The Project Scout schedule for libraries is:

• Aptos Tuesdays 10am – 1 pm Feb. 4 thru April 15

• Capitola Wednesdays 2 – 5 pm Feb. 5 thru April 16

• Downtown Tuesdays 10am – 3 pm Feb. 4 thru April 15

• Downtown Saturdays 10am – 3 pm Feb. 1 thru April 12

Appointments are necessary for tax help and can be made by calling 831-427-7713 or by visiting the Downtown or Capitola Branch Library Information Desk.

PUZZLE EXCHANGE AT CAPITOLA LIBRARY

A lifelong love of libraries and a long love of puzzles inspired Lezlie Ward to start a puzzle exchange program at local library branches, available in Capitola, where she lives, La Selva Beach, the first to start, Scotts Valley, Boulder Creek and Branciforte in Santa Cruz. Ward is such a fan of libraries, when she travels, she visits them.

When she was considering what to do with her many, many puzzles, she wondered whether the library had a way to share them. When she asked SCPL volunteer coordinator Laamie (Laamsha Young) about starting a puzzle exchange, she got a solid “yes” and followed up with a 5-page proposal.

For information, call the Watsonville Office at 1-831-724-2606 or toll-free at 1-877-373-8297, or visit https://seniorscouncil. org/project-scout/

PG&E OFFERS FREE GAS APPLIANCE SAFETY CHECKS

To help customers prepare their gas appliances for safe use during the cold weather months, Pacific Gas and Electric Co. is offering free in-home gas safety checks. During the gas safety checks, PG&E will re-light pilot lights for customers who have heaters or other appliances that have been turned off during warmer months.

Free safety checks help ensure that gas appliances, including water heaters, furnaces and ovens, are operating safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning within the home.

Carbon monoxide is especially dangerous because it can’t be seen, smelled or heard.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, each year more than 400 Americans die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning not linked to fires, more than 100,000 visit the emergency room, and more than 14,000 are hospitalized.

Since 2024 began, PG&E has responded to more than 75,000 incidents where the presence of carbon monoxide is suspected. Nearly 3,400 of those incidents were reported in Monterey, Santa Cruz, San Benito and San Luis Obispo counties.

“This free safety program is a great way for customers to prepare for increased use of their natural gas appliances as the cold season approaches. One of our gas team members will conduct safety inspections to help ensure that gas appliances are in proper working order and also relight pilot lights,” said Joe Forline, PG&E senior vice president, gas operations.

Before the colder winter months when natural gas appliances typically see the most use, PG&E encourages customers to schedule an inspection by visiting www. pge.com/pilotlights. Scheduling your appointment online is free and easy and will help you avoid hold times on our customer service line.

Customers can also call 800-743-5000 to schedule appointments.

If you suspect carbon monoxide in your home, you should get out immediately and call 911. If a PG&E customer ever smells the distinctive “rotten egg” odor of natural gas in or around their home or business, they should immediately evacuate and then call 911 and PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.

APPROACHING THE JOB MARKET AFTER 60

Are you 60+ and want or need to re-enter the paid work force? Nancy Jones & David Dennis present a 4-session series to evaluate your skills, talents and experiences and arm you with the strategies, resources and confidence to succeed in today’s job market.

Each session is noon to 5 p.m. Bring your laptop (library will provide laptops for those who don’t have one). Registration is required.

Remaining Sessions

Session 3: Tuesday, Feb. 4

Ward recruited Audrey Reader, Sandy McCarthy, Rebecca Mueller-Wille, Cecilie Schulze and Marja van den Hende to sort through donated puzzles and restock as needed. They gathered on National Puzzle Day Jan. 29, to celebrate what they’ve accomplished: A new —and free—resource for all ages at 5 library branches. (No need for a library card, just ask where to find the puzzles, and please return puzzles so more people can enjoy them.)

Find puzzles for young and old, from 50 to 2,000 pieces. More than 100 puzzles came from a mobile home park in Live Oak, and Caroline’s Nonprofit Shop in Aptos was generous. Want to donate a puzzle? Drop it off at the library in Capitola or Scotts Valley.

Looking for Jobs in All the Right Places! There are many ways to surface job opportunities. We will explore all methods, including myths and realities as well as out of the box approaches. Learn about Library resources related to surfacing job opportunities.

Session 4: Thursday, Feb. 6

Interviewing: Learn how to present yourself as the best candidate for the job! Review common interview formats and approaches such as behavior-based questions. Practice! Practice! Practice! Get interview practice and explore interview resources available at the library. Gain confidence, anticipate pitfalls and how to avoid them. Register at https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/13676200

COUNTY FAIR BOARD MEETINGS

The Santa Cruz County Fair Board will meet most months at 1:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday in the Heritage Building at the fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Blvd., Watsonville.

Upcoming Meetings: Feb. 25, March 25, April 22,

Becky Olvera Schultz

Lezlie Ward stands with the Puzzle Exchange, available at the Capitola Library.

May 27, June 24, July 22, Aug. 26, and Oct. 28; none in September. Dates in November and December have not yet been decided.

For agendas, posted 10 days in advance, see santacruzcountyfair.com

ONGOING EVENTS

Mondays

LEARN TO PLAY BRIDGE

10 a.m.-Noon, Santa Cruz Bridge Center, 2450 17th Ave. Beginner bridge classes will start on Monday, Jan. 6 at the Santa Cruz Bridge Center.

Classes are taught by Nancy Wainer.

Come and check out the world’s greatest game! First class is free. Reserve a spot via emai: NLMBRIDGE@yahoo.com.

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

First Saturdays

CAPITOLA BEACH CLEANUP

9-10 a.m., Esplanade Park

Help preserve and maintain the coastal beauty of Capitola. Join a beach cleanup every month at Esplanade Park. Keep Capitola Salty is a grassroots movement dedicated to responsible efforts helping to maintain and preserve the environment, scenic beauty and coastal recreational activities of Capitola.

This movement is always looking for volunteers. Email KeepCapitolaSalty@gmail.com.

DATED EVENTS

Saturday February 1

FLYFISHING FUNDRAISER

5 p.m., Pajaro Valley Rod & Gun Club, 557 Lakeview Road, Watsonville

The Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club will host its annual fund raising dinner at Pajaro Valley Rod & Gun Club.

The dinner will feature grilled wild caught Alaskan salmon, door prizes, and a huge raffle.

Seating will be limited, purchase your tickets now. Tickets are $40 online at: santacruzflyfishing.org/productcategory/annual-fundraiser/.

Saturday February 1

and Saturday February 15

PRUNING WORKSHOPS

10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., San Juan Bautista State Historic Park, 2nd St. & Mariposa St.

UC Master Gardeners of Monterey & Santa Cruz & San Benito Counties will host pruning workshops at San Juan Bautista State Historic Park.

Feb. 1: Fruit tree pruning with Master Gardener Diane Mahan

Feb. 15: Rose pruning with Master Gardener Suzanne Cook

This class will be conducted outside. You will have an opportunity to practice. Gloves, pruners, hat, sunscreen, layered clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Free, donations appreciated, visit mbmg.ucanr.edu to register.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

January 15 thru February 23

Opening Reception: Sun., Jan. 19, 2-4 p.m., Pajaro Valley Arts, 37 Sudden St., Watsonville

Welcome to #whatever, an exhibition celebrating the unfiltered creativity of Pajaro Valley Arts’ artist-members. In a world where hashtags often impose classification, this show, free of a specific theme, invites artists to explore limitless self-expression. The collection offers a diverse range of perspectives and mediums, creating a vibrant mosaic of works. #whatever is intentionally open-ended, encouraging visitors to let go of expectations and embrace the unexpected.

Featuring 135 prominent local artists across various media, the exhibit includes more than 200 additional pieces available for purchase in the PVA Gallery Store and throughout the gallery. Proceeds support local artists and Pajaro Valley Arts.

This show is dedicated to Lois Robin, a longtime member and volunteer. Her photograph Any Tub Will Do is displayed in the entry vestibule for you to enjoy.

PHOTO: Desert Dream by Sylvia Winsby

Sunday February 2

HOUSING RESOURCE FAIR

Noon-3 p.m., Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Road

Come to the Housing and Habitat Resource Fair at Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Road, for current and future residents of Aptos Hills, Corralitos, Soquel, Summit and Scotts Valley.

Sponsored by the Long Term Recovery Group and UC Santa Cruz Center for Critical Urban and Environmental Studies.

Local resources that focus on disaster preparedness, hazard mitigation, fire and flood recovery — such as FireSafe Council, CERT, SLV Emergency Response Network, United Policyholders, RecoverCa California, will be highlighted.

A free clinic, free food and crafts and games for kids. Those who fill out a survey in person will get $20.

This is the fourth resource fair; previous events were held in Boulder Creek, Davenport, and Pajaro.

Thursday February 6

AUTHOR JERI ROSS TO SPEAK

7 p.m., Capitola Library, 2005 Wharf Road

Santa Cruz Public Libraries

welcomes local author Jeri Ross to discuss her deeply personal memoir “See You in the Sky: A Memoir of Prison, Possibility and Peace,” at the Capitola Library.

“See You in the Sky is a story of childhood trauma and parental incarceration, shared by millions of sons and daughters of the incarcerated across

the country. “See You in the Sky” offers hope for all families affected by incarceration and for anyone who decides, at any age, to seek a more meaningful life.

“This healing resource shares a much-needed message about love beyond bars,” said Sandra Kay Barnhill, JD, founder and CEO of Foreverfamily. “When I started reading See You in the Sky, I didn’t want to put it down. There are so many fantastic life experiences in this story. If you only take one thing away from reading this memoir, your life will be better for it.”

Jeri Ross, a licensed health educator with a master’s in public health, is a community organizer who has raised thousands of dollars for youth violence prevention programs and programs for children with incarcerated parents. Registration for this event is not required, but recommended as it will help the organizers plan for refreshments. To register visit: https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/13627983

Saturday February 8

CAPITOLA VILLAGE SIP AND STROLL

You will also be given a map to locate which Village shops are hosting. Check-in begins at 11 a.m. at the Capitola Community Room in Capitola City Hall at 420 Capitola Ave., next to the Capitola Police Department’s main building. Tickets are $49.87 at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/capitolavillage-sip-stroll-tickets-1112884199599 Bring your Eventbrite ticket and your photo ID to check-in.

Sunday February 9 and Sunday February 23

ITALIAN FILM SERIES

6:30 p.m. p.m., Cabrillo College VAPA Forum Room 1001, The Winter 2025 Italian Film Series, “Chain Reaction/ Reazione a catena,” sponsored by Dante Alighieri Society of Santa Cruz, begins in February at Cabrillo College. This season’s films follow protagonists living during pivotal eras of Italian history whose lives are unexpectedly changed by the far-reaching consequences of a decision. Set in the 19th century and in post-war Rome, these dramatic art films invite us to consider how historical circumstances shape our lives and how our choices create effects that ripple through history. All films are in Italian with English subtitles. Logan Walker, film lecturer from UC Santa Cruz & director of programming, SV Film Festival, will introduce and have a Q&A after the film.

No tickets required, although seating is limited; first come, first served.

Cash donations welcome at the door.

To sign up for event reminders: https://www.dantesantacruz. com/events

Feb. 9

Kidnapped: The Abduction of Edgardo Mortara (Rapito) Directed by Marco Bellocchio, 2023

From one of Italy’s most revered directors, Marco Bellocchio, comes Kidnapped, the true story of Edgardo Mortara. A young Jewish boy living in 19th century Bologna, Italy, who, after being secretly baptized, is forcibly taken from his family by the Pope, to be raised Catholic. His parents’ struggle to free their son became part of a larger political battle that pitted the papacy against forces of democracy and Italian unification.

In collaboration with the Santa Cruz Jewish Film Festival Feb. 23

The Tale of King Crab (Re Granchio). Directed by Alessio Rigo de Righi and Matteo Zoppis. 2021. 105 mins. This off-beat, sumptuously photographed film tells the tale of Luciano, a wandering outcast from a remote, late 19th-century village in Tuscia. Luciano’s life is undone by alcohol, forbidden love, and a bitter conflict with a prince of the region over the right of passage through an ancient gateway. Luciano is exiled to the distant Argentine province of Tierra del Fuego where, with the help of ruthless gold-diggers, he searches for a mythical treasure, paving his way toward redemption.

Saturday February 11

CAPITOLA SOROPTIMIST CLUB MEETS

4 p.m., United Way of Santa Cruz County, 4450 Capitola Road, Suite 106,

Soroptimist International of Capitola-by-the-Sea will meet at United Way of Santa Cruz County. The meeting is free and open to the public.

Club members will finalize plans for the March 8 Live Your Dream Awards ceremony, begin planning for the Sierra Pacific Region Conference in May, and induct several new members.

Noon-5 p.m., Throughout Capitola Village Sip local wines while enjoying the boutique shops of Capitola Village — rain or shine, About 20 shops will host wineries from the area, with one shop hosting beer. With the purchase of your ticket, you will receive a Capitola Village Sip & Stroll logo glass and 12 two-ounce pour tickets to be used as you shop in the Village shops.

Soroptimist International of Capitola-by-the-Sea is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training to achieve economic empowerment.

#WHATEVER CURATED BY WENDY AIKIN

Jeri Ross

COMMUNITY NEWS

Parcel Tax Proposed for Affordable Housing Former Mayor Don Lane Circulating Ballot Petition

By Jondi Gumz

Former Santa Cruz mayor Don Lane and Elaine Johnson, executive director of the nonprofit Housing Santa Cruz County, are circulating a petition calling for two new taxes to fund affordable housing projects and programs to address and prevent homelessness.

They propose a parcel tax of $96 and an escalating .05% tax (based on the consumer price index) on property transfers of property sold for $1.8 million or more.

Both taxes, if approved by city voters, would expire after 20 years.

As a citizen-led special tax, if enough signatures are gathered and verified to place this measure on city ballots, passage requires 50% +1 of those who vote.

It could go to a regular election or a special election.

This is a new strategy for affordable housing advocates in areas where rents and home prices have soared. Redfin reports the median home price in the city of Santa Cruz in November was: $1.33 million, up $550,000 in the past four years. Zillow reports median rent last year ranged from $3,300 to $3,500.

‘Beyond

HLast March, San Francisco voters approved a $300 million affordable housing bond, which is expected to create more than 1,600 new homes and apartments for lowincome residents, including housing for seniors and survivors of domestic violence. Nothing has been built yet as these projects take time.

In November, voters in Pitkin County Colorado (which includes Aspen) approved a new property tax — about $121 per $1 million of property value annually for homeowners and $435 per $1 million of value annually for commercial property owners — to support affordable and workforce housing. The tax will be in effect for up to 25 years, generating $8.5 million a year.

Lane and Johnson contend the city needs to generate more money for affordable housing, which can leverage state and federal funding.

They wanted a plan that would not place an undue burden on the city’s property taxpayers.

They say the extremely high costs of home ownership and the increasing cost of rental housing throughout the County have resulted in housing insecurity and a persistently high number of individuals living without any housing in the City and the County – and this “crisis compels the community to seek approval by voters of a revenue measure” to acquire, develop or improve property to provide affordable housing.

Even though some affordable housing is being built, the number of units available for lower income working individuals and families, essential workers, disadvantaged veterans, seniors, low- and moderate-income households, persons with disabilities, homeless individuals and families; and supportive housing for individuals suffering from mental health challenges or substance use disorders does not satisfy the existing demand. Without affordable housing, lower income persons and families are unlikely to stay, they say.

Revenue Split

The revenue would be split this way:

• 87% for affordable housing programs and projects

• 10% for programs and facilities to address and prevent homelessness

• A maximum of 3% for community oversight, accountability and administrative expenses.

The proposed parcel tax would be $96 per parcel for all parcels, residential and commercial.

Exemptions would be available to lowincome households, low-income senior households, affordable housing projects, schools, religious institutions and entities exempt from property taxes.

Formula

Here is the proposed formula:

• 0.5% tax ($5,000 per $1,000,000) on the price paid in excess of $1.8 million but less than $2.5 million

• 1% tax ($10,000/$1,000,000) on the price paid in excess of $2.5 million but less than $3.5 million;

• 1.5% tax ($15,000/$1,000,000 value) on the price paid in excess of $3.5 million but less than $4.5 million;

• 2% tax ($20,000/$1,000,000) on the price paid in excess of $4.5 million, subject to a cap of $200,000.

Property sold for less than $1.8 million: No tax.

Also exempt:

Transfers by inter-vivos gift or inheritance

Transfers from a public agency to a nonprofit or from exempt public entities

Transfers of marital property

Transfers of restricted affordable units

Transfers of certain partnership property

Transfers made as part of bankruptcy proceedings and deeds in lieu of foreclosure.

CPI Increases

The price thresholds would increase annually by the change in CPI the prior year.

Thus, for example, if the CPI for fiscal year 2026-2027 is 3%, then commencing July 1, 2027, the exemption threshold for the tax would increase to $1,854,000.

The $200,000 transfer tax cap would be adjusted annually by CPI up to 3%.

Both taxes would expire after the 20462047 fiscal year.

Land and Johnson say the City Council would be prohibited from placing a measure on the ballot to increase transfer tax rate or extend the tax while it is in effect. n

the Bridge: A Solution to Homelessness’ Showing at Rio Theatre

ousing Matters invites the community to attend a screening and panel discussion with the filmmakers of Beyond the Bridge: A Solution to Homelessness, at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, at the Rio Theatre, 1205 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz. The event, in collaboration with the City of Santa Cruz Economic Development Department, Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County, Santa Cruz Mayor Fred Keeley, and former mayor and Housing Matters board member Don Lane, aims to encourage community-wide-conversation about

creating a comprehensive solution to homelessness.

Beyond the Bridge is a documentary about solutions to homelessness. A Bigger Vision Films team traveled more than 40,000 miles around the U.S. to answer this question: How can this country solve homelessness in a comprehensive way? Filmmakers found a solution that surprised them with its straightforward but simple approach from two large cities that proved solving homelessness is within reach of any community.

Their answer was: A single homelessness response systems plan based on the principles of Housing First

with community buy-in from law enforcement, judicial systems, business communities, service providers, volunteers, and leadership from the mayor and county executives, all working from the same page.

“[This film] is not only about people who are homeless themselves, but about how every member of the community can get involved in solving this issue,” said Sam Tsemberis, father of Housing First and one of Time Magazine’s 100 most Influential People of 2024. “It’s something you should see.”

“Beyond the Bridge” page 31

... because it matters to you!

Don Lane

Elaine Johnson

Beyond the Bridge

SCCAS Featured Pet

A Happy Little Lady

Our Pet of the Week is Lululemon (#A298888)! She is a squat, short and happy black 3-year-old pittie mix.

Lululemon was surrendered by her owner because they were unable to care for her anymore — she has been at the Shelter since December. In her last home she lived with her littermate but they are being adopted out separately for a new lease on life! Lululemon also lived primarily outside so she does still need to work on some of her indoor living skills- adopters will need to be patient and work with her using positive reinforcement!

Lulu loves head rubs and pets and enjoys going on walks and playing the yards at the Shelter. In her previous home she lived with a 12 year old child and did well so she might do well in a home with dog savvy children. She also loves the car — all tail wags and jumps when she sees an open car door!

Lulu is a sweet dog who is looking for a loving family to take her in and shower her with love- will that be you? Come to SCCAS and meet Lululemon!

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.

Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s full-service, open-admission shelter 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 • Hours: Daily 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. 580 Airport Blvd., Watsonville, 95076 • Hours: Tues.-Sat. 9:30 a.m. – noon; 1–5 p.m. (Closed Sun/Mon)

Website: www.scanimalshelter.org

SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182 • After Hours: jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us

“Calendar” from page 29

Soroptimist is a coined Latin phrase meaning Best for Women.

For information, visit www.best4women.org or email sicapitola. by.the.sea@gmail.com

Wednesday February 12

MEET THE AUTHOR: HELENE SIMKIN JARA 10:30–11:30 a.m., Porter Memorial Library, 3050 Porter St., Soquel Porter Memorial Library presents Helen Simkin Jara as part of their “Meet the Author” series. Her book, Me! Me! Me!, is about a group of writers who get together once a week, trade prompts, and write for one hour. She offers new insights about what it’s like to be a writer as her characters find themselves in circumstances that range from absurdly funny, to terrifying, to heart-wrenching.

Pull up a chair and enjoy this rollercoaster ride of improvisational short-story writing.

Helene Simkin Jara is an actor, director, author and educator who lives and works in Santa Cruz.

In 2003, she received the “best prose” award from The Porter Gulch Review for her short story “Josefina” and again in 2009 for her short play “FUBMC.” In November 2006, Helene’s play “The Tongue” was part of a festival at the African American Shakespeare Company in San Francisco. In 2007, her poem “The Difference” was nominated for a Pushcart Prize.

Because I Had To was an Amazon Kindle bestseller. True Doll Stories We Remember is published by Ingram Sparks. She has also published a book of short stories called Turn Left at the Gorilla and Go Down the Hall and a memoir Life on the Stand, which is also an audiobook. These programs are informal coffee hours where local authors discuss their works and answer questions. Free of charge and open to the public. Coffee provided by The Ugly Mug.

For information, call the library 831-475-3326. See www. porterlibrary.org/upcoming-events.

Thursday February 20

COME MEET OUR NEW SHERIFF!

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Drive, Aptos Enjoy the Aptos Chamber of Commerce lunch at the Seascape Golf Club with the new Sheriff Chris Clark. He will discuss all things Aptos and County. There will be time for questions and community reports.

Admission: $35. Reservations required, no walk-ins please. Visit aptoschamber. com or call (831) 688-1467.

Saturday February 22

I AM NOBODY’S SLAVE: VIEWING AND DISCUSSION

10 a.m.–Noon, Capitola Library’s Ow Family Community Room, 2005 Wharf Road

Join a community viewing of the recording of the SCPL Virtual Author Talk with Lee Hawkins and join the discussion afterward.

Hawkins’ book, I Am Nobody’s Slave, tells the story of

one Black family’s pursuit of the American Dream through systemic racism and racial violence. This book examines how trauma from enslavement and Jim Crow shaped their outlook on thriving in America, influenced each generation, and how they succeeded despite these challenges.

Hawkins was a 2022 Pulitzer Prize finalist as a lead reporter on a series about the Tulsa Massacre of 1921 at the Wall Street Journal, where he worked for 19 years. He is a five-time winner of the National Association of Black Journalists’ “Salute to Excellence” Award. The creator and host of the podcast “What Happened in Alabama?” he lives in the New York City area.

Light refreshments will be provided. Registration is recommended and drop-ins are welcome. To view the live interactive discussion, visit https://libraryc.org/santacruzpl

Hawkins explores the role of racism-triggered childhood trauma and chronic stress in shortening his ancestors’ lives, using genetic testing, reporting, and historical data to craft a moving family portrait. This book shows how genealogical research can educate and heal Americans of all races.

Register to join the conversation https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/ event/14022465

Saturday February 22

Sunday February 23

HIP TO BE SQUARE

10 a.m.-5 p.m. (4 p.m. Sunday), Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville See the largest Quilt Collection in the County. The Pajaro Valley Quilt Association is having its annual Quilt Show “Hip to Be Square” featuring more than 300 quilts at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds.

Featured speaker: Thom Aiken, art quilts and beaded quilts. Live quilt auction Sunday 12:30 p.m.

Ongoing needlework demos, vendor mall, bargain garden, wearable walkabout and more. Admission: $15. Ample free parking and shuttle. For details see www.pvqa.org

SANTA CRUZ CLAM CHOWDER COOK-OFF

10 a.m.-4 p.m., Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach St Sample the largest and longest-running clam chowder competition in the country at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Rain or shine. Amateur competition is Saturday; professional competition is Sunday. More than $3,000 in prizes plus bragging rights. Awards are given for Best Chowder in each category, plus People’s Choice, Most Tasted, and Best-Themed Booth. Look for wild and crazy costumes on the cooks. Boston and Manhattan categories, so no matter your favorite, you’re covered.

Tasting kits are $15 and include 6 taste tickets, spoon, cup, and a People’s Choice ballot. Proceeds go to Santa Cruz City Pakrs and Recreation.

Buy at https://beachboardwalk.com/clam-chowder-cook-off n

“Beyond the Bridge” from page 30

Mer Stafford, chief impact officer for Housing Matters, said, “We’re excited to explore with Santa Cruz County citizens the possibilities for resolving homelessness together.”

The Beyond the Bridge team is midway through a 40-city screening tour, with the goal of changing the national discourse.

Each screening includes post-screening panels and Q&As, calls-to-action and followup activities for audience members, and the opportunity for community members to collectively discuss how they can begin addressing homelessness locally.

Tickets are $12 at: https://www.housing matterssc.org/event/beyond-the-bridge-a-solutionto-homelessness

Chris Clark

Helen Simkin Jara