Scotts Valley Times February 2012 by Times Publishing Group, Inc.

February 2012

C O M M U N I T Y N E W S T H AT M A K E S A D I F F E R E N C E

Vol 15 No. 2

Serving Scotts Valley, Ben Lomond, Boulder Creek & Felton

2012 Supervisor Races

Candidates for the County Board

By Noel Smith

the Skatepark should allow scooter riders. After more than 30 people spoke to the issue, the Parks and Recreation commission voted unanimously to recommend that the City Council change a city ordinance to allow scooter riders to use the city’s skate park.

t’s not often that two open seats appear on the Santa Cruz County board of Supervisors. Three districts are up for election in 2012 with incumbents Ellen Pirie of District 2 and Mark Stone of District 5 choosing not to run for reelection. Pirie has been on the board since she was first elected in the year 2000 while Stone was appointed to the board in 2003 and then first elected in 2004. District 1 incumbent Supervisor John Leopold is running for his second term. Elections for open seats are always interesting because they get the most candidates fighting it out to get on the Board. The general themes of those running are usually “Time for a Change” or “Stay the Course” or some variation. Also, what do those that say they will be running think will be the important issues for them during the campaign.

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Scotts Valley Skateboard Park recently officially allowed the use of scooters.

LOCAL NEWS By Noel Smith

Can Skateboards and Scooters Co-Exist? ntil recently, the Tim Brauch Memorial Skatepark in Scotts Valley allowed just skateboards, inline skates and roller skates. Then came the scooters. Because of the limitations that

OF THE

the city had originally set down when the park opened in 2004, animosity between the two groups, skateboarders and scooter riders quickly began to grow and the city was seen as having taken sides in the situation. Because of the popularity of scooters as a Christmas gift, the issue of skateboarders versus

VALLEY

scooter riders came to a head. On Dec. 27, police were called to the skatepark following a complaint about scooter riders. Scooter riders were then asked to leave. At the January 19 meeting of the Scotts Valley Parks and Recreation Commission, about 100 people attended to share their feelings on whether or not

CommunityNews

Santa Cruz County Bank Arts Collaborative Presents ‘REPEAT!’

January 30 – April 20

epeat! is an exhibit displaying a playful exploration of repetition by six artists utilizing mixed media, photography, assemblage and construction. These artists showcase repetition and process in many different forms, bringing new meaning and context to simple shapes and patterns. The works in this show will delight and surprise your old notions of repeated imagery. Artists’ Reception: Join us for our opening reception on February 8 from 56:30 p.m. at 720 Front Street, Santa Cruz. Meet the artists, purchase artwork and network with other art lovers.

Curated by Joan Blackmer. Exhibiting Artists: Dotti Cichon, Fanne Fernow, Angela Gleason, Jane Gregorius, Charlotte Kruk and Daniella Woolf. Exhibit Locations – Santa Cruz County Bank offices: Aptos – 7775 Soquel Drive • Capitola – 819 Bay Avenue • Santa Cruz – 720 Front Street • Scotts Valley – 4604 Scotts Valley Drive • Watsonville – 595 Auto Center Drive. Exhibit viewing and bank hours: Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. excluding Holidays.

CommunityBriefs Scotts Valley Girls Attend San Mateo Workshop icole Olivas, Janine Snyder, Chiara Carbonne and Maddy Pennington, four members of Beth Hollenbeck’s chorus at Scotts Valley High School, sang with 40

other young women from Northern California in the Sweet Adelines Young Women In Harmony workshop during the Region 12 San Mateo convention. “Briefs” > 13

From left: Nicole Olivas, Janine Snyder, music teacher Beth Hollenbeck, Chiara Carbonne, and Maddy Pennington attended the Sweet Adelines Regional 12 Young Women in Harmony workshop at the San Mateo Marriott. 2 / February 2012 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Table of Contents

Cover Local News Of The Valley by Noel Smith 2012 Supervisor Races by Noel Smith

6 7 9 10 11 12 13 14 19 20 21 26 30 31

Community News Santa Cruz County Bank Arts Collaborative Presents ‘REPEAT!’ – January 30 – April 20, 2012 • Scotts Valley Girls Attend San Mateo Workshop Sixth Annual Broadway Cabaret Mountain Community Resources needs Volunteers for February Phon-a-thon PG&E Supports Valley Churches United Missions Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center Features Inspiring Works County Office of Education Expanding by Noel Smith 2012’s Valentine’s Day Poetry Contest – 12th Annual Times Publishing Group, Inc Competition By Noel Smith Gold Standard Chorus Seats Officers • Veterans of Foreign Wars – Deputy of the Year Award • February Department of Fish and Game Calendar The Chamber Orchestra Kremlin featuring pianist Sara Davis Buechner – Presented by the Distinguished Artists Concert & Lecture Series • Court Ruling Affirms Fairground’s Historical Use Farm Bureau Director appearing in global ad campaign • Santa Cruz Search & Rescue Team needs your support! • ‘The Art of the Dance’ – Sun. February 12, Cabrillo College Recital Hall ‘Outside the Box – Abstractions in Art’ – Scotts Valley ‘Art in the Library’ Showcases Renowned Local Artists • CYT Santa Cruz presents ‘Snoopy!!! The Musical’ – Forty Young People Present the Peanuts Gang 2011 Tax Changes impacting your refund from Uncle Sam There’s Still Time for 2011 Tax Relief! • MarineBIOS, Marine and Coastal Map Viewer Treasure Hunting through Attic – Historian Says Pan the Paperwork for Gold IRS Free File: Do Your Federal Taxes for Free

www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Sports Wrap Cardinal Corner by Chuck Walker – Stanford Undefeated in Pac 12 • Valley Scoreboard

Letters to the Editor The COE and the School Districts – Same Goals, Different Paths

15 16 17 18

Scotts Valley Chamber News • Pages 15-18 Leadership Santa Cruz County Class Comes to Scotts Valley • California Chamber of Commerce Reminds Employers • Calendar of Upcoming Events Habitat for Humanity Blazing Ahead on Blake Lane in Scotts Valley • Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Hosts Third Financial Planning Clinic — FREE to the Public Scotts Valley Lions Hosted Fantastic Business Networking Mixer to kick off 2012 • 7th Annual Fallen Officer Foundation Ball Make Plans to Join us for our February Business Networking Mixer • Happy Hour Networking Event – February 9 • Thank You to Our Renewing Members • Welcome to Our New Members Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28 & 29

Monthly Horoscope • Page 29 - Your February Horoscope - Annabel Burton, Astrologer© 22 23 24 25 27

Featured Columnists The Book Bag by Robert Francis – Give a child a book for Valentine’s Day… The Power of Feng Shui By Denise Vivar – Finding Mr. Right in the Modern Age MathBox by Bert Lundy – How to Square any multiple of 5 in your head Work in Progress by Camille Smith – Riddle: What time will it be when the future shows up? Out & About by Josie Cowden SPCA Featured Pet • Page 31 – Avril Is So Uncomplicated

Scotts Valley Times

VOL. 15 NO. 2

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2012 / 3

Scotts Valley Times publisher

Patrice Edwards publisher’s assistant

Lindsay Nelson editor

Noel Smith contributing writers

Noel Smith, Chuck Walker, Sharolynn Ullestad, Annabel Burton, Robert Francis, Denise Vivar, Bert Lundy, Camille Smith, Josie Cowden layout

Michael Oppenheimer, Mike Lyon graphic artists

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Bill Pooley, Jana Mears

Times Publishing Group, Inc. 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 The Times Publishing Group Inc., publishers of the Aptos Times, a bi-weekly publication, the Capitola Times and Scotts Valley Times, each printed monthly, Coastal Weddings Magazine, printed twice annually and Hospice Magazine, printed once annually, is owned by Patrice Edwards. Entire contents ©2012. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission. PHONE: (831) 688-7549 FAX: (831) 688-7551 GENERAL E-MAIL: info@cyber-times.com Patrice Edwards: patrice@cyber-times.com Publisher’s Assistant: assistant@cyber-times.com Editor: info@cyber-times.com Opinions / Letters: editorial@cyber-times.com Calendar Listings: www.cyber-times.com Graphics Dept: graphics@cyber-times.com Billing Inquiries: cathe@cyber-times.com Classified Sales: assistant@cyber-times.com Production: production@cyber-times.com

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CoverStory

“Election Questions” from pg 1

Times Publishing has asked each of those that have declared they will be a candidate for these offices when the filing period officially opens on February 13 for their three top issues and for a statement in order to inform our readers. Locally elected officials with their ideas and political positions often have great impact on their communities so it is important to become familiar with the candidates in order make an informed decision when voting. This is the first of a series of article to help you become acquainted with those running for office and to help the candidates communicate with the voters. We asked them to provide a 250-word statement and what were the three top issues Those potential candidates for 5th District Supervisor that we asked to participate were: John Abel, Eric Hammer, Bruce McPherson, Bill Smallman, Susan Weber and George Wylie. Those responding were: John Abel he lack of Leadership, Accountability, Transparency and Trust of our elected and taxpayer employed government officials has resulted in a plethora of “crises” where struggling and well-off Citizens alike are fed up! Citizens want: Infrastructure: Without raising taxes, leadership to provide well maintained roads and excellent, easily accessible means of mass transportation services and well-designed road systems that mitigate traffic congestion. Developing a system of bike lanes safe for both cyclists and passing cars. Job-creating Enterprise Zones for rehabilitating neighborhoods and small business communities. Bull by the horns streamlining of building department practices so that exorbitant costs and time delays John Abel are curtailed, thus motivating, encouraging, rapid implementation of job-creating projects. Youth-Family Services: Programs to provide support and alternatives for school age youths from succumbing to drugs, committing crimes or joining gangs. Affordable afterschool programs, vocational classes, job training and summer job programs leading to employment at a living wage. Promising support for community organizations helping individuals, families and children living in poverty. Environment: Proactively striving to improve our vibrant natural environment, keeping parks, streams, rivers, beachfronts clean and safe. Safeguarding existing and developing new parks and hubs for recreation. Implementing job-creating energy efficiency and water rebate programs that

4 / February 2012 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

will cost effectively lower energy bills, water usage and reduce carbon emission footprints for homeowners and businesses. Fulfilling promises of Leadership, with full Accountability and Transparency, while serving the needs of all, will create trust and support from the voting taxpaying Citizens of District 5. “By the People for the People” John Abel – Email: johnabel@got.net Eric Hammer serve on the Boulder Creek Recreation and Park District Board, the Board of Community Bridges, the Steering Committee for the Redwood Mountain Faire, and as President of the Boulder Creek Business Association. And I’m extremely proud to have been a founding board member of Youth First, the nonprofit that built the Teen Center in Felton. I serve my community with passion, integrity and honesty. As a self Eric Hammer employed business owner, I have a vision for the future of Santa Cruz County that includes green business practices, long-term planning that prevents sprawl, reducing energy use and protecting the environment for our children and our planet. The issues are: Protecting Our Environmental Resources. As Supervisor, I will prioritize moving our county toward more renewable resources and safeguarding the riparian corridors throughout the San Lorenzo River Watershed, from Carbonera and Bean Creeks, to Boulder, Bear, Love and Fall Creeks. Improving County Services. As a builder, I want to see the permitting process become more efficient and user friendly. We also must improve our infrastructure, roadways and access to public transportation. Strengthening Resources for Our Children and Families. Working families deserve jobs and housing that allow us to raise our children in Santa Cruz County. I understand how important parks, recreation and local libraries are to a healthy, vibrant community. I was born and raised in the San Lorenzo Valley and I look forward to what we can accomplish together when elected to the Board of Supervisors. For more information visit www.HammerForSupervisor.com, or call me at: 831-222-2106. Bruce McPherson ’m running for 5th District Supervisor because I love Santa Cruz County and believe my experience and knowledge of today’s issues will in turn provide the best

opportunity for us to receive the essential public services we desire for our tax dollar. Like no other candidate who has announced, I am positioned to “hit the ground running” in overseeing the “realignment” that is taking place in which more state government responsibilities are shifting to counties. I know residents’ concerns such as public safety, environmental Bruce McPherson protection and the desire to improve our infrastructure like roads and water systems. As a four-time elected representative of this County to the California Legislature, and one who has been a community leader and volunteer here all my life, it will be important to have “contacts” such as I have established in the state and federal level of government to get the attention we deserve. County supervisor is a non-partisan office. An important aspect of my service in elected politics is being recognized as one who is, “For people, not politics,” placing the people of community ahead of partisan politics. My family’s service here goes back more than 150 years. I was born in the 5th District, my great-grandfather Duncan McPherson, helped establish Big Basin as California’s first state park His son, Duncan Jr., was the Boulder Creek town attorney and my father, Fred, was a leader in numerous areas of public service. I want to continue that tradition now as your county supervisor. Bill Smallman y campaign slogan is: “Get out of the Red and Into the Green.” Meaning: let’s get out of fiscal instability and “Green” having the dual meaning of having money/solvency, and the Environment. The Economy is the biggest issue, because a revived Economy is necessary to solve other issues. It’s analogous to developing a root system to grow branches, (infrastructure), and leaves, (jobs), to grow fruit, (resources). I will do two Bill Smallman things. The County is one of our largest employers. Improving its own efficiency will help. Many people are doing and outstanding job, but there is always room for improvement. I will focus on every department to provide the most effective service.

“Election Questions (cont.)” > 6

“Valley News” from pg 1

According to councilman Jim Reed, the intent of the original ordinance wasn’t to ban scooters. “Scooters weren’t in the equation when the Skatepark first opened.” He thinks that the two groups can learn to get along and to work within the capabilities both devices. “To try to have different times or days for skateboarders and scooter riders or to set area limits within the skatepark for each just wouldn’t work.” There will be another opportunity for all parties to be heard before the change allowing scooter riders can become official.

District Voters to Decide on $48/yr Parcel Tax three-year, $48 per-parcel tax measure is to go before district voters in June, needing a two-thirds voter approval to pass. The tax, if passed, would raise about $300,000 each year, which is much less than the district administration says it needs. The fiscal situation will be worsened if the state fails in its bid to pass additional taxes through the proposition process in the fall 2012 election. If the local parcel tax and the state’s attempt to raise taxes both fail, about $790,000 in cuts will need to be made in next year’s budget (2012-2013) to keep from going into the red (negative) in FY 2014-15. The District had hoped to put a 4-year parcel tax measure on the ballot that was twice as large ($96 per parcel) in order to fund its programs. But Gene Bregman of Gene Bregman and Associates, which was contracted to conduct a limited public opinion poll in the first weeks of January, 2012, reported that in order to pass a parcel tax with a two-thirds majority approval, the time period should be reduced to 3 years and the tax should be less than $50 per parcel. The money raised from the tax will be used primarily for teacher’s salaries and is to, “…maintain stable local funding that the state cannot take away and will to be used solely to pay direct costs for classroom teachers for the purposes of: • Maintaining reading and writing skills in all grades; • Maintaining programs in mathematics and sciences in all grades; • Retaining highly qualified teachers; • Minimizing further increases in class size The tax cannot be used for administrator’s salaries, operational expenses, capital improvements, equipment or non-teaching personnel. There is also an exemption for seniors

(65 and over) and social security income recipients for owner-occupied, single-family residences which must be applied for by June 30 of the first year of the measure or any year after. The District has held a number of community meetings in recent months, and has scheduled a public hearing on March 9 in order to meet the filing deadline for putting the measure on the ballot with the state. District officials estimated that putting the measure on the ballot would cost the District about $80,000. Off-Site Signs to help Scotts Valley Businesses igns are an important part of businesses ability to communicate with future customers. That was the general feeling of the City Council in a discussion raised by councilman Dene Bustichi about allowing such signs. When driving down Mount Hermon road or Scotts Valley Drive, there are many businesses that are less visible or out of sight that rely on potential customers being able to find them. Sharolynn Ullestad, executive director of the city’s Chamber of Commerce and by Chris Ow, whose family owns the Kings Village shopping center, also supports the concept. City staff will research sign programs adopted in other cities, with the goal of coming up with a plan and an appearance that will reflect the community of Scotts Valley.

Redevelopment Agencies Vanish February 1 cotts Valley has one of five Redevelopment Agencies (RDAs) in the County, one for each city (Capitola, Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, Watsonville) and for Santa Cruz County. According to city councilman Dene Bustichi, Scotts Valley has one property that must be sold and that is the 1.75-acre “propane field” along Mt. Hermon Road. Other local RDA obligations in the form of bonds will be paid by the state and obligations in the form of contracts, can be terminated or renegotiated by the Successor Agency. The state legislature voted, the Governor signed, and the State Supreme Court drove the stake through the heart of RDAs in California. As of February 1, all RDA’s throughout California disappeared with each to be replaced by a “Successor Agency” each with a 7-member board. Opponents of the RDA system said that one of every eight property tax dollars in the state has been going to redevelop-

CoverStory

ment agencies through “tax-increment the: • County Board of Supervisors (two financing,” a system that sends any members) • The City’s Mayor (one) • increase in property taxes after land is County Superintendent of Education (one) redeveloped back to the RDA instead of • Chancellor of California Community Colleges (one) • Largest special district directly to the county general fund. The Successor Agency is required to taxing entity (one) and • A former RDA employee appointed by make payments and Mayor or Board of perform other obligaThe state legislature Supervisors (one). tions due for The membership Enforceable Obligations voted, the Governor of the Oversight Board of the former RDA, which include: • Bonds signed, and the State must be completed by May 1, 2012 and will • Loans • Payments for Supreme Court whether determine employee pension oblicontracts, agreements gations • Judgments or drove the stake or other arrangements settlements; and • Legally binding and through the heart of between the former RDA and private parenforceable agreements [Redevelopment ties should be terminator contracts. However, ed or renegotiated. The the seven-member Agencies] in actions of the Oversight Oversight Board of a Board will in turn be Successor Agency may California. overseen by the State terminate existing Director of the agreements and pay required compensation or remediation. Department of Finance and subject to dis(Goldfarb-Lipman Attorneys “California approval or modification. The concern is that assets and properSupreme Court Decision in California Redevelopment Association v. Matosantos ty currently owned by RDAs such as Scotts & Related Implementation Actions – Valley’s will have to be sold off at a loss in order to meet their obligations and will be Updated Jan. 18. 2012”) The Oversight Board will consist of 7 lost forever to the city’s future developmembers appointed by and representing ment and improvement plans. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2012 / 5

CommunityNews

Sixth Annual Broadway Cabaret S cotts Valley Performing Arts is pleased to announce its 6th Annual Broadway Cabaret, a one night only variety show, on stage Saturday March 3rd at 7:30 pm at the Olivet University “Williams” Theatre (formerly known as the Bethany University Theatre), located at 800 Bethany Drive in Scotts Valley . The Broadway Cabaret will showcase a wide variety of local talent including Ashley Rae and Hillary Little from Cabrillo Stage, Joyce Michaelson and Susan Boes of Um Gee Um, Eleanor Hunter, Christina Cree and Brie Michaud, Geoff (Wild Bill Hickok from Annie Get Your Gun) and Bobbie Ward, David Jackson and Zina Urquhart from Annie Get Your Gun, and Sandi Stoltenkamp from Santa Cruz Follies. The SVPA Youth Shakespeare group will present a short “montage” from its summer production of Romeo and Juliet, CYT will be performing a selection

from Snoopy: the Musical, and Steps will also perform. The silent auction will offer attendees the opportunity to get great deals on a number of special items, which include a group dinner at an Aptos beach house, Adventure Sports gift certificate, Sky High Jump certificates, and jewelry just to name a few. Money raised from the auction will be used to support upcoming 2012 productions, including the Youth Shakespeare program and its fall musical, Annie. Trish Melehan and Lisa Kirk-Williams will be directing the younger performers in Mother Goose meets Dr. Seuss and Other Strange Encounters July 14 and 15, and Romeo and Juliet July 20 to 22. SVPA is pleased to have Paul Sawyer return as director of Annie (based upon the popular Harold Gray comic strip Little Orphan Annie) that will open September

28 and run to October 14. According to Carolyn Dugger, Scotts Valley Performing Arts President, the Broadway Cabaret “is a great chance to enjoy an evening of entertainment including wonderful singing, dancing, and acting performances from talented local performers. This family-friendly event is a perennial favorite for anyone who loves live performances, and our 6th Annual Broadway Cabaret is sure to be a big hit!” Please come out and join us for a wonderful evening of fun, frivolity, fantastic entertainment and fundraising for an important nonprofit local theater organization. Tickets may be purchased, and more information is available, on our website, www.svpaa.org, or by calling 831-566-9411. Scotts Valley Performing Arts, now in its 13th year, is seeking volunteers to work on our upcoming shows. There is a variety of ways to get involved from set painting

and costuming to helping publicize our events. It is a great way to come out and support community theater right in your own back yard. n ••• Please visit our website at www.svpaa.org to complete a volunteer form and learn more about our intrepid group.

“Election Questions” from pg 4

have link to a YouTube video where I describe more about my campaign, my background and my views on environmental issues. My e-mail is bsmallman2012@gmail.com. Susan Weber he San Lorenzo Valley has been my home for the past 26 years and I can’t think of anywhere else I would rather live. Being part of a closeknit community has been a wonderful place to raise a family. In 1986, both my husband Bryan and I Susan Weber became involved with the Ben Lomond Fire Department. In 2001, I was appointed to the San Lorenzo Valley School Board and served for the next 9 years. During my tenure, I was Board President 3 times, sat on numer-

ous committees, created a 501(c)3 Nonprofit to support our schools, and completed the California School Board Association’s Masters in Governance Program. I was a board member when Julie Haff was hired as Superintendent. My time on the board was spent improving the district’s financial status, completing construction projects, improving test scores, and creating long range plans for the Districts future. Santa Cruz County is currently facing many challenges. Public safety, road maintenance and creating business opportunities will be my top priorities. Like all government agencies in a financial down turn, we must figure out ways do more with less. I would bring many strengths to the County Board of Supervisor’s. I am able to look at all sides of an issue before making a decision and I have experience in developing long range plans and maintaining fiscal stability. If elected I promise to do my best to represent the 5th District and to make good, sound decisions for all of Santa Cruz County. George Wylie nvironment: We must protect and preserve the natural habitat in the San Lorenzo River watershed, the North Coast, our coastline, open space, quiet neighborhoods and small-town way of life. Water: We must work cooperatively to ensure that we have a consistent and adequate supply of water and that control of community water resources remains at the local community level. Local Economy & Business: We need

an economic climate that encourages growth of small, efficient, and environmentally sound local businesses. We need to broaden our support for tourism through advertising. Effective Government & Budget: The budget should be understandable by everyone, and should reflect a fair-share distribution of public funding between cities and the unincorporated areas of the county. Our Children: As a parent volunteer and elected SLV school board trustee I have George Wylie worked over the years to promote better education for all students in the San Lorenzo Valley. As Supervisor, I will continue to find creative ways to provide for youth facilities, after school activities, and volunteer programs to engage our children. Housing & Growth: Current laws properly prevent unsustainable growth, and as Supervisor I will ensure those laws are enforced. We need to streamline the building permit process. Roads & Infrastructure: We must improve our maintenance effort for the 600 miles of roads within the county. Our county has some of the worst roads in the state. Public Transportation: As Supervisor, I will be working to restore and improve transportation service to appropriate levels. Call me at 338-2181, email me at george@georgewylie2012.com or write me at Friends of George Wylie, PO Box 526, Brookdale, CA 95007-0526. n

I title this issue as, “The Business of the County.” I am the best candidate for prioritizing infrastructure improvement because as a licensed Civil Engineer, I have over 23 years in that type of construction experience. Next, I will create a Board of Economic Development. This Board will: One - support business startup or expansions. Two promote vocational training. Three - invite guest speakers to meetings. Four - invite outside companies to relocate. Five - work with California Forward to develop specific changes for our County to become more efficient. And, finally: Six - sponsor networking events. My three most important issues are: #1 The Business of the County, (described above), #2. The Economy, and #3. The Environment. On my website, billsmallman.com, I

6 / February 2012 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Photo Credit: Bari Miller Photography

Naomi Rollins, Joyce Michaelson, and Cindy Gorski entertain at the 2011 Broadway Cabaret.

CommunityNews Mountain Community Resources needs Volunteers for February Phon-a-thon

FELTON — Mountain Community Resources is putting a call out to area residents for help with the organizations 27th annual Phon-a-thon fundraiser that will take place throughout February. Mountain Community Resources provides programs and services that include bilingual family support and case management, low-cost counseling and programs for teens, emergency preparedness trainings, “Together in the Park” play groups, parenting education classes and local access to County resources and programs. “This is our primary fundraiser of the year and we’ve set the bar at $30,000,” said Director Jennifer Anderson-Ochoa “We been tremendously successful helping families in the valley and it’s all thanks to support from the SLV and Scotts Valley communities.” Every Monday through Thursday in February at 5 p.m. starting Wednesday, Feb. 1, there will be training for first time volunteers, everyone gets dinner and calling begins immediately afterward for potential donors and to collect pledges. All fundraising events (dinner, training, and phone banking) will be at Mountain Community Resources Headquarters, 6134 Highway 9. For more information and to sign up, call Amanda Robinson at 925-550-4546 or email arobins10@yahoo.com. Mountain Community Resources (MCR) is a local family resource center that has been serving the San Lorenzo Valley and Scotts Valley communities since 1982. We offer a network of programs and services designed to help people thrive. We work directly with individuals and families to build a strong community. For more information, visit us online at www.communitybridges.org/mountain community.htm.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2012 / 7

CardinalCorner

Stanford Undefeated in Pac 12 Chuck Walker

The Stanford men’s basketball team STANFORD — With just 10 games left to play in regular season, the women’s did not garner such fortune though with team looks well on its way to a possible their game against Cal, which was the folFinal 4 placing. Under the leadership of lowing day at UC Berkeley. While the men senior, Nnemkadi Ogwumike and her came out strong, they faded in the end younger sister, Chiney, The Cardinal con- and ended up with a 10 point loss, which tinues to turn out amazing performances puts them at 5-4 in conference and 15-6 overall. resulting in victories, large and small. But the men did have a very exciting As of February 1, the Stanford game against Oregon State, women’s basketball team is which eventually ended in a undefeated in conference As of February victory (103-101) for The play with a record of 9-0 in 1, the Stanford Cardinal after four overtimes. conference and 18-1 overall. Chasson Randle scored the Even when the players are women’s basketgame-winning jumper, but having an off day, which ball team is Oregon State threatened after happens, even with champiundefeated in getting fouled and coming ons, they seem to reach conference play within one point of tying the down deep and rally back score with just 18 seconds to into a victory. with a record of go. A great example of this 9-0 in conference Both the men and the fortitude was their game and 18-1 overall. women will meet Cal again against Cal (UC Berkeley), on March 4, the last game of where the score was tied five times and the lead changed hands three their regular season before heading into times. This resulted in a 69-69 tie score, the March Madness period, where hopes during regulation, pushing the two teams are high for the women to do well and posto overtime, where Stanford held Cal to sibly win a national title, which hasn’t haponly two points giving The Cardinal an pened since 1992. For more information on Stanford sports, eventual 74-71 victory, maintaining the visit: www.gostanford.com undefeated record for their conference.

Photo Credit: Chuck Walker

Valley High School Scoreboard Boys Basketball

San Lorenzo Valley 71 – Scotts Valley 58 San Lorenzo Valley Record: (6-18, SCCAL 2-7) Scotts Valley Record: (11-10, SCCAL 4-5) an Lorenzo Valley Scoring: Billy Mullins 16; Eric Lange 15; Alden Brown 15; Trevor Patterson 13; Ryan Olmsted 5; Lucas Sinnott 4; Alex Kanter 2; Chris Pasternak 1. Scotts Valley Scoring: Jack Pasquini 25; Andrew Stumbo 14; Ricky Seago 10; Garrett Johnson 9 Scotts Valley 58 – Harbor 47 Scotts Valley Scoring: Jack Pasquini 18, 8 rbd; Garrett Johnson 11; Ricky Seago 10; Andrew Stumbo 9; Tyler Marshall 4; Ari Wargon 6. Soquel 58 – San Lorenzo Valley 45 San Lorenzo Valley Scoring: Billy Mullins 13; Alex Kanter 8; Eric Lange 5; Sid Chi 2; Silas Mattingly 4; Lucas Sinnott 4; Chris Pasternak 3; Ryan Olmsted 2; Trevor Patterson 2. Santa Cruz 67 – Scotts Valley 37 Scotts Valley Scoring: Jack Pasquini 12, Garrett Johnson 7; Ricky Seago 4;

Andrew Stumbo 4; Ari Wargon 4; Willie Johnston 3; Jamie Land 2; Tyler Marshall 1;

Girls Basketball

Scotts Valley 65 – Harbor 33 Scotts Valley Record: (14-6, SCCAL 5-3) cotts Valley Scoring: Natalia Ebrahimian 28; Angela Silver 15, Nadene Hart 8, 18 rbds; Sadie Allen 6; Autumn Guidice-Murphy 4; Keyawna Williams 2; Tori Bridges 2. Soquel 63 – SLV 13 San Lorenzo Valley Scoring: Kaitlyn Lotz 4; Hyllery Hershberger 2; Angir Hershberger 3; Brumbaugh 2; Lavelle 2.

Boys Soccer

San Lorenzo Valley 1 – Harbor 0 San Lorenzo Valley Record: (3-9-3, SCCAL 2-4-1) an Lorenzo Valley Scoring: Erik Revas (Nick Calabray) 76:00 Scotts Valley 4 – St. Francis 0 Scotts Valley Record: (7-5-2, SCCAL4-3-0) Scotts Valley Scoring: Matt Seligman,

8 / February 2012 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Alec Paul, Charlie Stock, Noah Beito San Lorenzo Valley 2 – St. Francis 0 S a n Lorenzo Valley S c o r i n g : A n d r e w Bricken (Ben Knudson) 21:00, Cameron Morse (Ian Tvelt) 69:00 Soquel 2 – Scotts Valley 1 Scotts Valley Scoring: Edgar Padraza (Noah Beito) 49:00

Girls Soccer

Scotts Valley 5 – San Lorenzo Valley 0 Scotts Valley Record: (10-3-3, SCCAL 7-0-1) San Lorenzo Valley Record: (5-10-1, SCCAL 1-7-0) cotts Valley Scoring: Ranae Maloney (Taylor Rohde) 28:00, Rohde (Maloney) 42:00, Sonja Gustafsson (Emily Payne) 59:00, Gustafsson (Kathryn Balch) 68:00, Jessica DuBridge (Rohde) 78:00

SportsWrap Scotts Valley 4 – St. Francis 0 Scotts Valley Scoring: Sonja Gustafsson (Ranae Maloney) 16:00, Emily Payne (Rachel DuBridge) 30:00, Jessica Romeo (Jordin Carlson) 39:00, Gustafsson (Maloney) 42:00 Harbor 5 – San Lorenzo Valley 1 S a n Lorenzo Valley S c o r i n g : M a d i s o n Thompson 69:00

Wrestling

Aptos 54 – Scotts Valley 23 Scotts Valley Season Record: (SCCAL 3-1) Scotts Valley Scoring: 113 Dominio Parrish (frft), 126 Grant Margerum (pin) 5:06, 138 Anthony Smith (tf) 15-0 n

CommunityNews

PG&E Supports Valley Churches United Missions

Linda S. Lovelace, Operations Director • Valley Churches United Missions (831) 336-8258 x 221

CUM would like to announce the receipt of a $5000.00 charitable donation from Pacific Gas and Electric Company. This generous donation is in support of Valley Churches United Missions emergency response and preparedness outreach to our residents in Scotts Valley, San Lorenzo Valley and outlying areas. VCUM provides important services to individuals & families, seniors & the disabled. Many low-

income residents are impacted before the general population by foul weather. VCUM responds to these individual situations before, during and after incidents. In a recent incident when power was knocked out, VCUM was under full generator power. PG & E was hampered in their repair efforts by sustained high winds resulting in unavoidable long waits for restoration, as well as dangerous conditions for repair personnel. VCUM has been able to assist

LetterToT TheEditor The COE and the School Districts Same Goals, Different Paths here is a difference between local school districts and the County Office of Education. The local districts are in charge of the curriculum offered in their programs while the County Office provides countywide programs for special education and alternative education students, serving students who are not served adequately or cost effectively by the districts. The cookie cutter, one-size fits all approach to high school education is designed to force all students to be fouryear college ready. This inevitably pushes some students out the door who aren’t looking for that path. Every day I see students and parents who are confused and discouraged by the new requirements, particularly those students who are more interested in a career that doesn’t require a college degree (80% of careers don’t, a figure that has remained stable since the 1950’s). In our county, the most recent statistics generated by the California Community College system reveal that fewer than 30% of our county students go on to four-year college; what happens to the other 70%? Those students also deserve a high-quality education, one that positions them to compete in the local labor market and earn family-supporting wages that will allow them to stay in our county. Forcing all students to comply with this

approach to high school graduation often leaves them after graduation with no job skills and no college education. Rather than “rob” districts of students as the Sentinel article (1/19/2012Tensions boil…) alleges, some students and families are voluntarily opting out of the comprehensive high school factory model. The County Office of Education Alternative Education program provides a variety of educational options for those students who don’t fit the mold found in these programs. If districts want to keep their students, they need to design programs that are responsive to individual students and stop beating the drum about a four-year college education being the only option Some of the highest paying careers in our county do not require a college degree, but do require career training, which the County Office ROP programs do offer. You only have to speak to our returning college graduates to discover that many of them are unemployed or working in jobs in the tourism industry here, not in their college majors. College is a wonderful option for the students who desire it and can afford it, but the statistics in our county don’t bear out the fantasy that it’s the only option. Carol Polhamus, Career and Technical Education Project Director Natural Bridges High School and Green Careers Center • Ponderosa High School and Green Careers Center

residents with a place to plug in breathing apparatus during power outages, recharge cell phones & electrical equipment, supply fresh food more often due to lack of perishable storage, raingear, sand & sandbags, flashlights, firewood and sleeping bags. Most importantly, VCUM provides a feeling of community with a warm welcome because we are all in this together. Through support like this from Pacific Gas and Electric Company, VCUM will be able to continue this outreach. On behalf of our community we wish to express our heartfelt thanks & appreciation for all that they do. Thank you. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2012 / 9

CommunityNews

Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center Features Inspiring Works

Gallery Exhibition

“Inspirations” through Mar. 17, 2012 iverse artwork from over 30 local artists inspires our visitors to the Gallery: painting, sculpture, ceramics, collage, baskets, jewelry and more! Come and be inspired! Gallery Hours: Wednesday - Sunday, 12 6 pm FREE Admission - All are welcome!

Classes & Workshops

ADULT ON-GOING CLASSES Life Drawing Tuesdays, 7–9:15 pm with facilitators Drop in sessions for beginners or pros featuring a different model every week. Third Tuesday is long pose night with two models. Raku with Dale Bates Fridays 6 – 9 pm Fire a little Raku with the master. Weather dependent. Clay Studios at the Art Center Tues, Wed & Thurs2 – 5 p.m. With Jody Snyder, Linda Levy and Travis Adams. Self-directed studio time & Projects Clay Expressions Wednesdays 12 – 6 pm

Wheel & Hand Travis Adams Suitable for beginning through advanced potters, this class is for experiencing an ancient creative and functional outlet that we all deserve in our lives. Intermediate Ukulele Mondays 6:30-7:30 pm Ongoing class with Rick Duncan. Come a half-hour early for a basic introduction to the ukulele. Per class: $2 donation NEW CLASSES Starting Feb 13, 2012 eginning Ukulele with Marty Carlson Mondays 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Learn to play the ukulele! Santa Cruz’s hottest new craze! No musical knowledge required. Bring ukulele, or may purchase at the class Soda-Licious! - with Ruthanne Turball. Sunday, Feb. 19, 10 - 4 p.m. Join us for this one-day workshop with the Queen of Soda Firing, Ruthanne Tudball. Ruthanne regularly conducts demonstrations and workshops by invitation around the world. Come and be inspired by Ruthanne’s approach to clay! Start HERE: Handbuilding with Clay with Liz Crain Thursdays 2 - 5 p.m.

10 / February 2012 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Session I: Feb 23 - Mar 29 Session II: Apr. 12 - May 17 Suitable for those entirely new to clay as well as those wishing to begin again or fill holes in their ceramic understanding. These classes offer a solid foundation in the basics of handbuilding. Using wellguided but interpretive projects, students will explore a trio of forming and decorating techniques in each 6week session. YOUTH CLASSES Art Saturdays Session I Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 Andree LeBourveau - Etchings verything Paper (ages 6-12) with Lori Wilson 10 am - recycled paper, homemade paper and 12 pm. We will make paper sculpture using paper maché. Fresh Off the Press: Printmaking & Book Arts (ages 6-12) with Brenda Berg 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm Winter at the MAC offers a blizzard of art possibilities—imagine making art with screens, foam, food and found objects; or making your very own personalized book…in a place where, according to one of our young artists, “you get to spread your imagination!” Imaginator Movie Camp I: Puppets, Props & Story Boards (grades 3 thru HS) with Brenda Berg 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Perfect for aspiring moviemakers! This two-part class gives students a creative blend of art and technology. During the first half, “Puppets, Props & Story Boards,” students will learn to create story boards, build personable puppet characters and colorful props for a stop-motion film short. Students can showcase their creations in a stop-motion flick at home or return this summer 2012 for the second half of IMAGINATOR Movie Camp: Sets, Stop Motion Filming and Editing. Lights! Sets! Action! Note: the optional second half of IMAGINATOR Movie Camp: Sets, Stop Motion Filming and Editing continues this summer at the SCMAC with set design, stop-motion filming, green screen techniques, sound, editing, uploading film shorts to the internet and DVD burning. n ••• Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center 9341 Mill Street Ben Lomond, Tel. 831-336-3513

CommunityNews

County Office of Education Expanding By Noel Smith

n this day of lower property values, there are many bargains to be found in the commercial real estate market and the County Office of Education (COE) found such an opportunity just across the street from its headquarters at 400 Encinal St. The COE is buying a 10,000 sq ft building at 399 Encinal St. from Wave Crest Development of Santa Cruz for $1.45 million. The current cost to buy the land and build a similar building would be about double, approximately $3 – 4 million, according to a prominent local developer. Why another building? County Superintendent Michael Watkins said his agency is currently at 95 percent capacity and in order to provide additional space for professional development and support for programs such as Migrant Head Start, New Teacher Project and others the COE needed more space. The County Office of Education uses its resources for the benefit of all the school districts in the county. According to COE Director of Fiscal Services, Jean Gardner, “We have supported our districts, through program collaboration, infrastructure and technology support and development and many other ways. This is not taking money out of the classroom, we receive funding for new teacher support and other programs as this is one of our core functions that we provide to an entire region. Districts generally do not have the economy of scale to provide these services locally as well as we can regionally.” If each district had to use its funding in support of all the services and programs provided by the COE and mandated by the

state and even the federal government there would be far less money flowing into their classrooms. These services include curriculum development, professional development, regional occupational program, alternative education, student support services, child development, academic competitions and financial services to name some that are available to the school districts and to the students of Santa Cruz County. (COE Website: www.santacruz.k12.ca.us) Each of these educational and professional programs provided, supported, or supervised by the COE brings education dollars into the county that would not be otherwise available. In a time of reduced funding for education, this is a valuable undertaking by the COE that is providing educational opportunities for the county’s schools and students that ordinary funding sources do not and cannot provide. Education is always about investing in the future. Whether it’s facilities, teachers, curriculum or services, the payoff isn’t today, it’s tomorrow. The County Office of Education bought its current headquarters in 2007 for $6.9 million and then upgraded its facilities for another $2 million. Unfortunately it cost COE $850,000 for the lease on its previous location which was left empty after they moved out. However, the 30-year savings on the purchase is projected to save the COE $13.4 million over renting for the same period. The $1.45 million for the new facility comes from its $18 million reserve fund. Because of its fiscal policies, the COE’s current reserve equals about 30 percent of its

annual budget. This has allowed the COE to provide $2 million in grants to county school districts over the past two years to help them through this difficult financial time. Gardner told the Times, “We have run our programs very conservatively over many years and have a healthy fund balance. We are able to assist districts and expand programs in these ways because of that. In recent years, with the onset of the state budget crisis, our board also directed our office to adopt a budget with minimal deficit spending. We made reductions and this also resulted in increasing our fund balances when others were draining reserves.” One activity that has helped the districts meet their education and student service goals is the COE’s alternative education program. Students in the program now number over 950 in comparison to just a little more than 600 in 2006-7. This program works closely with families and organization to help these students get on the right path to a good education and a healthier, productive life. COE Trustee Vic Marani said, “The County must also serve the most disenfranchised population by reaching out to them and their families to get them out of gangs back into school and on the road to a better future. Otherwise, we’ll be building more prisons. Some students cannot succeed without additional support and these kids can slip through the cracks. That is why one of the COE’s functions is to run Alternative programs.” Count Office of Education Superintendent, Michael Watkins said, “The COE is not in competition for education dollars with the districts we serve. We are here for the children whether it’s helping districts with their professional development, coordinating their programs,

overseeing their finances, providing support services, or for the students, alternative and occupational education programs. We are here to give taxpayers with more educational bang for their hard earned dollars and to provide our children, no matter their background, with a solid education and hope for the future.” n

COE sponsored Inside Education visits Tierra Pacifica Charter School. www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2012 / 11

CommunityNews

2012’s Valentine’s Day Poetry Contest

12th Annual Times Publishing Group, Inc Competition

By Noel Smith

hether it’s young Love, Love that has stood the test of time, or the memory of Love, it is Love that is at the center of what we celebrate each February 14, Valentine’s Day. And what could be more romantic than to write poetry about that Love for your lover - and for our readers to read. So, submit your poem about those tender, passionate feelings and romantic thoughts to our annual poetry contest. Times Publishing Group is sponsoring its 12th Annual Times Publishing Annual Valentine’s Day Poetry Contest to reward three local poets (and their sweethearts)

with the ultimate in Valentine’s Day romance. It’s time for poets throughout the county to again wear their hearts on their sleeves making public their feelings for those whom they love. By entering the 2012 Times Publishing Annual Valentine’s Day Poetry Contest, you could be one of our three First Place winners. The 2011 Times Publishing Annual Valentine’s Day Poetry Contest drew poems from Watsonville to Boulder Creek in every style imaginable. Some were funny, some romantic, some touching, and all were a joy to read! A winning poem was chosen for each of our three newspapers (Aptos Times, Capitola Soquel Times, and Scotts Valley Times). To express your love – in 250 words or less – (see “Contest Rules” for complete details) tell the world what makes your Valentine special. All entries must be received by 5 pm, Monday February 6. Three first Place winners will be selected with the winning poems published in the March 1 issues of the Aptos Times, Capitola Soquel Times and Scotts Valley Times. n ••• 2012 Poetry Contest Rules Please Read Carefully rite a poem about, or to your Valentine and send it to us. Only one poem per poet and no more

12 / February 2012 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

The Scotts Valley Times’ winning prize is a Valentine’s Day dinner for two at Café Max – Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley.

than 250 words and 25 lines. Submit it via email to info@cyber-times.com with Poetry Contest in the subject line or mail it to 9601 Soquel Dr, Aptos, CA 95003. Be sure to include your name, address, day and evening phone numbers, e-mail address, and for whom (fiancée, spouse, lost love, etc.) your poem is written. Three First Place winning poems will be selected by the Times Publishing editorial staff: from south county representing the Aptos Times; from Capitola/Soquel/Santa Cruz representing the Capitola Soquel Times and from Scotts Valley/San Lorenzo Valley representing the Scotts Valley Times. (Note: We welcome submissions from all readers living within Santa Cruz County.) The Scotts Valley Times’ winning prize is a Valentine’s Day dinner for two at Café Max – Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley. The winning poems will be published in the March 1 editions. All entries must be received by 5 pm on Monday, February 6, 2012. The winner will be notified on or before Friday, February 10. Please call us at 831/688-7549 if you have any questions. ••• 2011 Winners Scotts Valley Times – Barbara Obey Aptos Times – Robin Moyer Capitola Soquel Times – Bob Lilley Scotts Valley Times First Place Barbara Obey

For my boyfriend Jobob Love at Last

It’s been a year since you wrote your last poem Calling out to the universe for a Valentine of your own. Cautiously… I answered in prose… Letting you know, I had dreams of my own.

We spent precious times learning about one another Hiking…biking and puzzling until the wee hours! Our trip to Maui was so much fun, Ukulele Bob sweetly serenading all the day long. I made us wait… though close by your side, A whole three months…would our friendship survive? More than just a playmate I wanted to be… Looking for one who would really care about me. As the time floated by…I started to see A kind, gentle man who enjoyed being with me. Card playing and laughing, adventurous travels. Singing and dancing my stresses unraveled.

The comfort… the wisdom… the intimate fun… The love of my life has finally come!

or my boyfriend Jobob, who I met on 2/13/10 after responding to a poem he posted on Craigslist. I’ll be presenting it to him for our 1-year anniversary on Valentines Day.

“Briefs” from pg 2

Sweet Adelines master teachers and prominent quartets coached the girls before performing for the convention. With only a few hours of actual rehearsal, the girls received a standing ovation. Mrs. Hollenbeck said, “It was a great day to be a girl at the “50’s Rockin’... Bobby Sockin’ Barbershop Harmony Workshop” today! My four choir students enjoyed their experience learning songs with so many talented singers, along with

learning so much about vocal technique and harmonizing. They accomplished in eight hours what would normally take a month!” ••• Gold Standard Chorus Seats Officers old Standard Chorus installed its 2012 officers in a ceremony at Peachwood’s: (L to R) Ian Blackwood, treasurer; Allen Takahashi, music VP; Dan Jett, secretary; Les Stagnaro, VP at large; Jack Gordon, membership VP; Jordan Johnson, director; and

Nick Roberto, president. A senior at Soquel High School, Nick is the youngest person ever to have served as chapter president. His first official act after installation was to lead the chorus in singing Harmony Leads the Way. All of the officers are enthusiastic about bringing another year of barbershop to the Santa Cruz area and continuing the chorus’s traditions of Valengrams in February, visits to the county’s high schools, the Cabaret Show in June, Sing for Your Life in November and holiday caroling in December. You may visit the chorus at www.scbarbershop.org. ••• Veterans of Foreign Wars — Deputy of the Year Award n January 25, Aptos Post 10110 VFW presented Deputy Roger Galvin with the Deputy of the Year Award. Every year a deputy is honored with this award for their outstanding work and dedication. Deputy Galvin was chosen because of his passion and commitment to the public he serves. An example of how Deputy Galvin’s hard work paid off was when he began to investigate a residential burglary case. Deputy Galvin identified a potential suspect and continued to do follow up on

Gold Standard Chorus Officers

the case. He learned the potential suspect was pawning the stolen property in San Francisco. After a long and thorough investigation, Deputy Galvin interviewed the suspect and obtained a full confession. He Roger Galvin was able to return $30, 000 worth of antique silver pieces back to the victim and the suspect was arrested for multiple burglaries involving several victims. ••• February Department of Fish and Game Calendar eekends - Elkhorn Slough Ecological Reserve docent-led walks, every Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Binoculars and bird books available to borrow at no cost. Visitor Center and main overlook are fully accessible. Day use fee is $4.32 per person, ages 16 and older. Groups of 10 or more should schedule a separate tour. n Directions and more information at www.dfg.ca.gov/lands/er/region4/elkhorn.html

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2012 / 13

CommunityNews

The Chamber Orchestra Kremlin featuring pianist Sara Davis Buechner

Presented by the Distinguished Artists Concert & Lecture Series

ow in its 26th year, the Distinguished Artists Concert & Lecture Series is proud to offer another outstanding season of musical variety and excellence for the whole family to enjoy. We are very proud to present one of the premiere chamber orchestras in the world and feature international star, Sara Davis Buechner. ••• Saturday, February 4, 8 pm. At the new Cabrillo College Crocker Theatre rogram 4: Mozart’s charming Divertimento in D; Mozart’s dazzling

Piano Concerto No. 13; Tchaikovsky’s luscious Serenade for Strings The virtuoso players of the Chamber Orchestra Kremlin with Sara Davis Buechner, Tchaikovsky Bronze medal winner, playing on one of the finest pianos in the world: the new Yamaha CFX nine-foot concert grand piano. Founded in 1991 by a RussianAmerican violinist and conductor, Misha Rachlevsky, this 17-member string orchestra has earned national and international recognition as a leading Russian ensemble. It has performed over 1300 concerts — nearly 500 in Moscow, the rest on tours in 24 countries of Europe, North and South America and the Far East. The orchestra has recorded over 30 CDs, receiving widespread international acclaim and awards such as the Diapason d’Or in France, Critics Choice in London’s Gramophone and in the New York Times, Record of the Year in Hong Kong and others. Tickets may be purchased online at TicketGuys.com 831-656-9507 ••• Sunday, February 5 at 3 p.m. Crocker Theatre: solo recital by Sara Davis Buechner rogram 5: Haydn’s Sonata in E Flat, Hob. XVI:52; Von Weber’s Sonata in G Major, Op. 24; Turina’s Danzas Gitanas; Gershwin’s Foxtrots Sara Davis Buechner (born: David Buechner, 1964) is a transsexual American concert pianist and educator. Buechner received her undergraduate degree from

The Chamber Orchestra on the Kremlin stage.

Juilliard School, and received her doctorate in music from the Manhattan School of Music. With an active repertoire of nearly 100 piano concertos ranging from Bach to Wuorinen, she has appeared as soloist with America’s most prominent orchestras: the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, Philadelphia Orchestra, Cleveland Orchestra, Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra and San Francisco Symphony Orchestra. Sara Davis Buechner’s recording of piano music by George Gershwin was selected as a “Record of the Month” by

Stereophile magazine. Tickets $25 - $45 at www.ticketguys.com 831-656-9507 or www.BrownPapertickets.com, www.google.com or call John at 831-539-0000. ••• The new Yamaha CFX concert grand piano, named the Juanita Orlando Memorial Concert Grand, is considered by many to be the finest concert grand piano ever made. This magnificent instrument will be available for members of the community to play on the Crocker Stage on Friday, February 3. Call 831539-0000 to learn how you can take advantage of this incredible opportunity.

Superior Court Ruling Affirms Fairground’s Historical Use

WATSONVILLE — On Tuesday, January 24, 2012, Sacramento Superior Court Judge Lloyd G Connelly handed down a decision dismissing all challenges to the right of the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds to continue hosting rodeos. Each point made by the plaintiffs, Citizens for Environmental Responsibility and Stop the Rodeo, citing pollution, noise, and the need to conduct a full environmental review of the rodeo was negated in the ruling. The court found no negative environmental damage or danger to the public as a result of the event.

Furthermore, Judge Connelly affirmed that equestrian events such as the Stars of Justice Rodeo held last year fit within the historical uses of the Fairgrounds. The real damage from this and other lawsuits filed by neighborhood groups is to the financial health of the Fairgrounds. “We spent about $95,000 dollars last year defending the Fairgrounds against legal challenges to our operations” said Dave Kegebein, Fairgrounds Management Team Leader. He added “We have always been an event center open and available to all segments of our community,

14 / February 2012 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

however we also want to continue to be very good neighbors.” The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds hosts a large number of community events highlighted by the annual County Fair. The Fair celebrates the rich agricultural history of our community and people, and invests heavily in bringing this heritage to our youth. The 2012 Fair will be held September 11 — 16 at the Fairgrounds located on Highway 152 just east of Watsonville. Information on the Fair, and the Fairgrounds — a year round entertainment and event venue, can be found at www.santacruzcountyfair.com n

Leadership Santa Cruz County Class Comes to Scotts Valley

n Friday, June 6, there were over 50 people from around Santa Cruz County gathered in the Scotts Valley City Council Chambers at City Hall. Was there a HOT issue to be debated with our City Councilmembers? Not with this group. Leadership Santa Cruz County (LSCC) Class 27 was at their first meeting of the year for Government Day, hosted by the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce and City of Scotts Valley. Mayor Donna Lind, a Graduate of the LSCC program, kicked off the day with her presentation on how a Scotts Valley resident finds her way into City politics and then on to becoming Mayor. She captivated the Class with her humor and personal stories, and shared how they, too, could become involved in local government (She had them so involved with her presentation that the class photographer forgot to take her picture.) Attendees were full of questions and interchange with our Mayor Donna Lind. Joining Mayor Lind during the morning session was State Senator Joe Simitian who spoke to the class on Tips for Successful Advocacy, applicable to government at any level. It was a great morning for this 27th Class of Leadership Santa Cruz County. Following the morning session the Class was treated to a leisurely walk down Scotts Valley Drive on what was a beautiful day to head outdoors. They were treated to

Senator Simitian Speaks to LSCC Class 27

lunch at Mint Café and Wine Bar where class members discovered the newly remodeled café and enjoyed delicacies prepared by Kelly Gladder’s great team. Next, it was off to the new Scotts Valley Library to tour the new facility and all the innovations it has to offer. There they were treated to a presentation by Assemblyman Bill Monning on “Legislating in an Age of Acrimony.” It was a Great Day in Scotts Valley for Class 27 of Leadership Santa Cruz County and we were happy to serve as their host for their Government Day. The Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce looks forward to their visit to Scotts Valley again in 2013. Leadership Santa Cruz County (LSCC)

is a non-profit organization founded by our area Chambers of Commerce in 1985. The goal of Leadership Santa Cruz County is to identify potential and existing leaders in business, government, and the community and help them assume leadership positions throughout Santa Cruz County. LSCC can provide these leaders with a practical and sophisticated understanding of the problems, issues, needs and opportunities facing our community today and in the future. LSCC provides access to and dialogue between current leadership and emerging community leaders, and promotes development and enhancement of leadership skills. Leadership Santa Cruz County (LSCC) was founded to enhance the civic participation of emerging community leaders. Nearly 1,000 individuals have graduated from the program since then. Training received in the Leadership Santa Cruz County curriculum has made a difference in the effectiveness of these graduates. Leadership alums occupy positions of responsibility on boards of directors, commissions and advisory councils for nonprofit organizations, local government agencies, schools, neighborhood groups and many others. Leadership graduates are among the community’s most dynamic network of people. For more information on how to participate, visit www.leadershipscc.org.

California Chamber of Commerce Reminds Employers

he California Chamber of Commerce is reminding employers that they must post a summary of job-related injuries and illnesses from 2011 at their place of business by February 1. The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) requires the Cal/OSHA Log 300 summary (Form 300A) to be displayed from February 1 to April 30 for employee review. A free Log 300 wizard is available at the CalChamber Store at www.calchamber.com to help a business determine whether it is subject to recordkeeping requirements.

Companies that had 10 or fewer employees at all times during the last calendar year do not need to keep Cal/OSHA injury and illness records. Employers with 11 or more employees, except those covered in the California low-hazard establishments in the retail, service, finance and real estate sectors, must display the totals from the Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses (Cal/OSHA Form 300A) wherever employee notices are usually posted. If there is more than one business establishment, a separate summary

must be posted in each physical location that is expected to be in operation for one year or longer. More information on Log 300 filing and posting requirements is available on HRCalifornia.com. Be sure to post your updated 2012 California and Federal Employment Notices for all your employees to see. Stayed informed by checking out all the New Employment Laws Affecting Businesses for 2012 on the California Chamber of Commerce website at calchamber.com.

Treat Your Valentine to Gifts and Dinner From our Local Chamber Businesses!

Calendar of Upcoming Events February 4 • FREE Financial Planning Clinic, 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Scotts Valley Community Center, 360 Kings Village Rd. Scotts Valley

February 9 • Happy Hour Networking, 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

Sandabs Seafood & Wine Bar, 11 Camp Evers, Scotts Valley

February 23 • Scotts Valley Chamber Business Networking Mixer, 5:30 - 7:00 pm

Comerica Bank, 228 Mt. Hermon Rd, Scotts Valley

Mar 8 • Happy Hour Networking, 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm Location to be announced

Mar 13 • Scotts Valley Chamber Travelers depart for Ireland

Mar 29 • Scotts Valley Chamber Business Networking Mixer, 5:30 - 7:00 pm Stonehouse Bar & Grill at the Hilton, 6001 La Madrona Dr., Scotts Valley

Aug. 11 & 12 • Scotts Valley Art & Wine Festival 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Skypark, 361King’s Village Rd., Scotts Valley

Call the Chamber Today or visit www.scottsvalleychamber.com www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2012 / 15

Habitat for Humanity Blazing Ahead on Blake Lane in Scotts Valley approved to subdivide the one lot into three and $300,000 was granted to Habitat to offset permitting and infrastructure costs. In early 2011, the search for three qualified low-income families began. In September, everything was in place to begin construction on the three townhome project. Three families had been selected — two were already Scotts Valley residents. The three families began their sweat equity on the first Saturday in October. Since then, hundreds of volunteers have come out to donate their time and hard work on the job site. Building goes on three days per week, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 8:30 to 3:00. Individuals and groups are welcome. Most recently, the UCSC women’s soccer team came out to build one Saturday. Thanks to generous lunch donors, lunch is provided on your workday. No Previous construction skills are expected. Habitat Santa Cruz County will provide skilled construction staff to train the volunteers and Blake Lane Families on foundation pouring day supervise construction. All tools,

ne of the biggest challenges for Habitat for Humanity in Santa Cruz County is finding land to build on. In 2009, Habitat was able to purchase an affordable piece of land on Blake Lane in Scotts Valley. Even better, it was in the city’s redevelopment area. That helped when Habitat for Humanity went to the City of Scotts Valley’s planning department with a plan to build three townhomes on the 10,000 sq ft lot. It also helped when Habitat requested funding from the City’s redevelopment agency. A variance was

safety equipment, and building materials needed for the day will be provided. We welcome partner companies to roll up their sleeves and get to work at Habitat Santa Cruz County. This is an excellent opportunity for team building among staff members and gives employees a chance to work side-by-side with Habitat families, helping to support their dreams of owning a home. Employees feel a sense of camaraderie as they build relationships with their coworkers and pride that their team-building dollars go to support something enduring: a solution to the local housing crisis. Corporate volunteering also fosters a closer working relationship among employees, who gain leadership skills, develop an ethic of service and build loyalty to your

UCSC Women's Soccer team

company as well. If your group is interested in volunteering please contact Beth at Habitat: 4694663 or development@habitatsc.org. All Scotts Valley Chamber members who volunteer on the job-site will receive a free t-shirt.

Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Hosts Third Financial Planning Clinic — FREE to the Public

Saturday, February 4, ~ 2 – 6 pm Scotts Valley Community Center 360 Kings Village Road

16 / February 2012 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

he Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce is pleased to host the third Scotts Valley Financial Planning Clinic for our Community. This Free, Pro Bono event offers the public an opportunity to address specific financial questions and concerns with our local professional financial planners. These professionals are volunteering their time and expertise to meet one-onone with you. This clinic provides our local community with financial information at a time when many of our residents are in urgent need of financial planning assistance due to the continuing economic turmoil. Do you have questions regarding Debt Management, Cash Flow, when to take Social Security, funding your Retirement or a College Fund? Perhaps you are experiencing a special circum-

stance that has affected your finances, such as Job Loss, Job Change, Underwater Mortgage or have had a Change in Marital Status. These are just a few of the areas that attendees can discuss with our professionals. Attending this event may be the first opportunity you have had to meet face-to-face with a professional financial planner. And it’s Free. The Seminar — “Achieving and Keeping a Secure Retirement!!! rom 2 – 3 pm we will present a seminar titled “Achieving and Keeping a Secure Retirement!!! Our speakers will be Ted George, MSFP - George Financial Advisors and Bob Finke, CFP® of Center for Financial Affairs.

“Financial Planning Clinic” > 18

Scotts Valley Chamber News

Scotts Valley Lions Hosted Fantastic Business Networking Mixer to Kick Off 2012 hursday, January 26 found Scotts Valley Chamber members enjoying a fantastic spread of delicious food prepared by the team at Mint Café and Wine Bar as the Scotts Valley Host Lions Club hosted the First Scotts Valley Chamber Mixer for 2012 there. Members of the Scotts Valley Lions Club introduced attendees to their many service projects through pictorial displays around the room. It was a great evening of networking, catching up with business members after the holidays, and learning more about the service of the Scotts Valley Host Lions! Be sure to purchase tickets to Lion’s upcoming Crab Cioppino Feed/Dance March 3rd by calling Karen at 429-2017

Mayor Donna Lind and SVChamber Assistant Kris Waller • Raffle time with City Councilmember Dene Bustichi! • Mint Chef Kelly Gladder with Ambassador Becky McMilliion • New Member Michael Seigle with SV Host Lions Officers Val Rebhahn and Jay Mosely • Bruce McPherson, Second Harvest Food Bank Board Chair, with Exec Director Sharolynn Ullestad • Ambassador President Jesse Wilkins with Bruce Lindsay • Our Hosts - Scotts Valley Lions Club Members • Photos Courtesy of Jesse Gabriel Photography Studio

7th Annual Fallen Officer Foundation Ball

Saturday, Feb. 11, 5:30 to 11 p.m., Cocoanut Grove Grand Ballroom, Santa Cruz

top to consider for a moment how much we take safety and order for granted in our daily lives. We commute to jobs, our children bicycle or walk to school, and we enjoy down time with family and friends. We are safe. Thanks to our local police officers, firefighters and first responders, we don’t hear the wolf gnawing at our door. But the wolf is always at bay, disguised as a gang member, drunk driver or house fire. Those who keep the wolf at bay deserve our gratitude, support and help. Because we know that sometimes heroes fall, be it from injury or illness, we must stand over them. We must face down the wolf, because it’s the right thing to do. On behalf of the Fallen Officer Foundation, we would like to invite you to attend the 7th Annual Fallen Officer Foundation Ball at Cocoanut Grove on Saturday, February 11, from 5:30-11 p.m. Come join us for an evening of great food, wine, live music and dancing. Enjoy our silent/live auction with the energy of pro-

fessional auctioneer, Rob Slawinski. Celebrate with our Master of Ceremony, retired Watsonville Police Chief and county icon Terry Medina, as he ushers us through an unforgettable evening of fun and good will. Most importantly, please join this assembly of local firefighters and police officers to celebrate their work. Tickets are $100 and need to be purchased in advance. Check the website for tickets and how you can help - www.fallenofficerfoundation.com Fallen Officer Foundation is an allvolunteer 501(c)(3) non-profit that helps local fire fighters, law enforcement and emergency responders in Santa Cruz County in time of need. Show your support, and give a little back to the men and women in uniform who serve us so valiantly. If you are unable to attend but wish to donate, go to the website www.fallenofficerfoundation.com and donate via PayPal. You can also search on Facebook to keep track of activities and events of the Fallen Officer Foundation. www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2012 / 17

Scotts Valley Chamber News

Make Plans to Join us for our February Business Networking Mixer

Thursday, February 23, 5:30 – 7:00 pm • Comerica Bank 228 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley

oin with us for our February Business Networking Mixer hosted by Comerica Bank. Join with fellow Scotts Valley Chamber members to network with new business members and reacquaint yourself with others. There will be great food and

Welcome To Our New Members Dakota Ultrasonics

Teresa Engel 1500 Green Hills Rd., #107, Scotts Valley, CA 95066 831 431-9722 www.dakotaultrasonics.com

Comcast Business Class John Politoski • Michael Seigle 106 Whispering Pines Dr., Scotts Valley, CA 95066 831 247-2080

Santa Cruz American Red Cross

Camilla Boolootian • Carol Netzley 2960 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, CA 95062 831 600-4900 www.sccredcross.org “Financial Planning Clinic” from pg 16

You probably know it is important to save regularly to fund your retirement. But do you know if you are saving enough? – Or when you will be able to retire securely? Come learn how to determine how much to save to meet your retirement goals and how to set that retirement date. Once in retirement, it is important to adjust to living on a fixed income. You need to understand your sources of income and how much you can safely withdraw from your investment portfolio. We will explore a variety of safe withdrawal strategies that go

wine and lots of networking for all. Be sure to bring your raffle items to showcase YOUR business and plenty of business cards to share with your new contacts. This will be Comerica’s Big Celebration party of 2012. Don’t miss it! Mark your calendar now!

in the Scotts Valley Chamber Newsletter

Hosted by Sandabs Seafood & Wine Bar from 5:30-7 p.m.

11 Camp Evers, Scotts Valley oin us for our First Happy Hour Networking event of 2012, sponsored by the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors and hosted by Sandabs Seafood & Wine Bar. We invite everyone for a fun evening of great appetizers and drinks – all at a special Chamber price. Bring your friends, neighbors and associates to taste Sandabs special entrees. Come socialize with your Chamber business friends in a relaxed atmosphere.

Happy Hour Networking

Thank You to Our Renewing Members Stevenson’s Landscaping Scotts Valley Property Management Central California Alliance for Health Central Home Supply Second Harvest Food Bank The Crow’s Nest Shadowbrook Restaurant Pathfinder Consulting King’s Village Shopping Center Spring Lakes Park Express Employment Professionals Slatter Construction, Inc. Greenwaste Recovery, Inc. Coastal Evergreen Co. Dr. Steven J.Graf, DDS beyond the 4% annual withdrawal rule of thumb. Each attendee will be able to meet individually with one of our professional financial planners for 20 – 30 minutes. Individual sessions are being offered between 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm following the 60 minute Educational Seminar and are scheduled on a first-come first served basis, so be sure to register when you arrive for the Seminar at 2:00 pm. The Scotts Valley Financial Planning Clinic is a pro bono benefit to the public, and there is no selling, product marketing or soliciting. In other words, there are no strings attached for the con-

SV/SLV Soccer Club

Joe Miller

Dr. David Estrada DDS

Robert E. Mazurek & Co.

Bay Federal Credit Union

Bei-Scott Company, Inc.

Business with Pleasure

Skov Winery

Batteries Plus

Club One at Scotts Valley

Boulder Creek Golf & Country Club

Palace Art & Office Supply

Cabrillo College

Budget Blinds of Santa Cruz

United Way of Santa Cruz County

Scotts Valley Water District

Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County

Assist International

Scotts Valley Performing Arts

Scotts Valley Market

Hilton Scotts Valley

I On Design, Inc.

Redwood Glen Camp & Conference Center

Happy Tails

InSight Eyecare Center

Slawinski Auction Company

sumer. This is a Free service offered to our community by our Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce business partners. Financial Planners participating in this event include: our event coordinator Ted George, MSFP of George Financial Advisors; Bob Finke, CFP® of Center for Financial Affairs; Michael Chamberlain, CFP®, AIF® of Chamberlain Financial Planning LLC; Bob Adams, CFP®, MBA, MSFP of Armstrong Retirement Planning LLC; Jack Corsiglia, Investment Advisor. Also participating are Financial Services Representatives Wendy Von Bach of Bay Federal Credit Union and Stephen Hoversten of Modern

Woodman Fraternal Financial. Watch the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce website for updates on the “Special Events” tab at www.scottsvalleychamber.com/ specialevents.htm . You can also visit with us on Facebook so “like” our page and stay informed – Scotts Valley Financial Planning Cinic. Don’t miss this opportunity to start out 2012 right by meeting with a Professional Financial Planner and begin to find some answers to your financial questions. Scotts Valley Financial Planning Clinic, Saturday, February 4, 2012 2:00 – 6:00pm, Scotts Valley Community Center, 360 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley – FREE!

Scotts Valley Artisans

Cruzio Internet

Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce

Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce 360 King’s Village Road Scotts Valley, CA 95066

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18 / February 2012 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

CommunityNews

Farm Bureau Director appearing in global ad campaign

ess Brown, executive director of the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau and Agri-Culture, is now appearing in an international ad for Jameson Irish Whisky. The ad is part of a four-part campaign that the company is promoting to show John Jameson as a strong, independent man. The ad shows Jameson arm-wrestling and reads:

“After the 57th tried unsuccessfully to procure the secret of my distillation process, I had no choice but to switch to my good arm.” — John Jameson “Taste Above All Else”

The ad in which Jess appears can currently be seen on the New York and London subways and will be appearing in San Francisco as well as other US and European cities. It is based on an original oil painting by Pacific Grove artist, Warren Chang. Brown is the long-time executive

director of the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau and appears as three of the figures in the ad. First he is the judge kneeling by the barrel serving as the platform for the contest. Second he is seen as the shirtless man standing behind Jameson. Lastly as one of the opponents standing at the back of the line with his arm raised. Brown and his wife Laura already own three paintings by Chang. “Because I know Warren and his work depicting agricultural subjects when he asked me to be one of the models I said, ‘yes’.” According to Brown, the painting was posed and photographed by a director from Los Angeles working with a group of eight models at a Carmel winery last summer. Brown is an art collector and has served on the boards of the Cultural Council of Santa Cruz County and the Monterey Museum. To learn more about Warren Chang and his art go to warrenchang.com n

Jess Brown’s image is used three times (circled) in this original art piece by Warren Chang as part of an ad campaign by Jameson Irish Whisky.

Santa Cruz Search & Rescue Team needs your support!

he County’s Search & Rescue Team needs your support. It is as easy as going out for pizza! On February 1st Woodstock Pizza is giving up to 25% of your purchase to the team. You MUST have a coupon with you when you make your purchase. Go to the team’s website www.SCZSAR.com to download and print out your coupon. The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team is a non-profit organization that consists of extremely dedicated volunteers and full time deputies under the direction of the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office. The team is comprised of unpaid volunteers with specialized search and rescue training provided by the team. The team’s mission is to provide highly trained search and rescue resources to the citizens of Santa Cruz County and other agencies

according to the State Of California Mutual Aid Plan. The Santa Cruz County SAR team is on call and operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year in almost any conditions. All team members donate their time, taking time off from work and away from their families at all hours of the day and night, to search and to train for searches. The team utilizes dogs, horses, motorcycles, ground and air units to complete their searches. During any given week, the SAR team may respond to multiple “call outs” that may include: • A wilderness technical rope rescue • An urban search for an elderly Alzheimer walk away or missing child • Downed aircraft search, rescue and recovery • Community preparedness and preventative SAR education

All proceeds of this fundraiser will help pay for over twenty team members to receive National accredited training. Their

goal is to search in the most efficient means to find the lost/missing person(s) as quickly as possible. n

he Ensemble Monterey Chamber Orchestra presents the second concert in their 20th Anniversary Season, The Art of the Dance, on the evenings of February 11 and 12. The orchestra, conducted by John Anderson, is joined by 12 principal dancers from the Monterey Dance Collective to stage three

full-length and fully choreographed ballets under the direction of Choreographer Deanna Ross. The first ballet is a delightfully traditional and carefree French romantic piece by Gabriel Pierné, and is entitled Ballet de Cour. Next comes one of the all-time French classics, Debussy’s Prelude to the

Afternoon of a Faun. After intermission, the pace changes completely with four tangos by the Argentine master, Astor Piazzolla. Titled Concierto del Angel, these tangos tell a tale of an angel who comes from heaven to the tango beat of urban Buenos Aires. The Art of the Dance is presented on

Saturday, February 11, at 8 p.m. in Carmel Valley’s Hidden Valley Institute of the Performing Arts, and on Sunday, February 12, at the Cabrillo College Recital Hall in Aptos. This concert is a once in a double decade event and is not to be missed! n

Ensemble Monterey Chamber Orchestra presents ‘The Art of the Dance’

“Dance” > 21

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2012 / 19

CommunityNews

‘Outside the Box – Abstractions in Art’

Scotts Valley ‘Art in the Library’ Showcases Renowned Local Artists

he ‘Art in the Library’ program is quickly establishing the Scotts Valley Library as an art destination by attracting renowned artists for the program’s second installation ‘Outside the Box – Abstractions in Art,’ which will be installed and ready for public viewing on February 4. The showing features an impressive list of high-quality, respected local artists. For this 2nd ‘Art in the Library’ showing, Program Chair Val Peyser has selected: Mike Bailey Carol Bowie Mike McClellan James McElheron Moto Ohtake Eric Peterson Beth Shields Denise Shaw & SVMS art students The installation will include these artists’ abstract interpretations in a variety of mediums including painting, photography and sculpture. “The physical building of the new Scotts Valley library lends itself so well to art with its large, expansive walls and

wonderful natural light,” notes Peyser. “So it is very gratifying that the community is embracing ‘Art in the Library’ so enthusi-

astically, and our county’s many experienced and respected artists are eager to participate.” The library has more than

15,000 visiting every month, and library employees report strongly positive feedback on the ‘Art in the Library’ program. “The work by our county’s accomplished artists enhances the experience of visiting the library, making the space more dynamic and visually interesting,” said Elizabeth Walch, president of the Friends of the Library — Scotts Valley Chapter. “The Art in the Library program is a natural extension of the library’s commitment to cultural education.” The ‘Art in the Library’ program launched its first showing in Summer 2011/12, and each display runs up to three months in length, and features six to eight artists at a time. Library and exhibit hours are Monday – Thursday 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., closed Sundays. n ••• More information on Friends of the Library — Scotts Valley and the ‘Art in the Library’ program is found at www.fsvpl.org. Artists interested in being considered for future shows may access an application at http://www.fsvpl.org/p/art-in-library.html.

in Scotts Valley. Tickets are $15 for adults, and $12 for students and seniors. ••• Performance Dates and Times: Friday, Feb. 17th – 7:30pm Saturday, Feb. 18th – 7:30pm Sunday, Feb. 19th – 3:00pm Friday, Feb. 24th – 7:30pm Saturday, Feb. 25th – 3:00pm, 7:30pm Sunday, Feb. 26th – 3:00pm Special School Days Shows: Tuesday, Feb. 21st – 9:30am and 12:30pm Tickets are available online at www.cytsantacruz.org. Don’t miss this exciting performance! n ••• Christian Youth Theatre (CYT) is the largest national youth theatre organization and Santa Cruz hosts one of its newest affiliates. This non-profit educational organization offers after-school classes in drama, dance, and voice for kids ages 6-18. CYT also produces high quality, family friendly musicals three times a year. CYT is not affiliated with any church and people of all faiths are welcome. By employing quality

teachers and directors, CYT teaches theatre in a healthy environment while promoting qualities of commitment, self-esteem, confi-

dence, and integrity. With these goals in mind, CYT aims to develop character in kids, one stage at a time!

CYT Santa Cruz presents ‘Snoopy!!! The Musical’

n February 17, Santa Cruz County will experience the characters from Charles M. Schultz brought to life. CYT (Christian Youth Theater) Santa Cruz is producing Snoopy, a full-length musical based on the Peanuts comic strip. Forty students ages 8-18 will be telling the story of Charlie Brown, Sally, Linus, Lucy, Peppermint Patty, Woodstock, and Snoopy. This family friendly show will be a treat for all ages! It’s remarkable! Fantastic! Entertaining! Yes, Charles M. Schulz has done it again. “SNOOPY!!! The Musical” is the sequel to “You’re a Good Man Charley Brown” and deserves each of its three exclamation points. Based on the world-renowned “Peanuts” comic strip, it delights every audience with the quiet knowledge and wit of its characters. Musical numbers include: The Big BowWow, Don’t Be Anything Less (Than Everything You Can Be), Where Did That Little Dog Go, and Daisy Hill. Performances are at Olivet Community Theater, 800 Bethany Drive

20 / February 2012 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Cast Rehersals for “Snoopy!!! The Musical”

CommunityNews

2011 Tax Changes impacting your refund from Uncle Sam

n the way of tax legislation, 2011 was a relatively quiet year. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t tax law changes that will affect this year’s tax returns. “The changes enacted at the end of 2010 will still impact this year’s and next year’s federal tax returns,” says TaxACT spokesperson, Jessi Dolmage. “With the debate over the federal budget and taxes unlikely to end any time soon, who knows if the soon-to-be expired tax breaks will be extended. So, take advantage of all your benefits while you still can.” Three out of four taxpayers receive a federal refund, and last year’s average refund totaled $2,805. To help you maximize your refund, here are some tax law changes you should know about before filing this year’s return. * Your federal return must be filed by Tuesday, April 17, 2012. April 15 is a Sunday and Washington, D.C., is recognizing Emancipation Day April 16. Don’t use the extended deadline as an excuse to procrastinate, though. When you rush, you’re more likely to make mistakes that could cost you money and time. Furthermore, filing, paying or providing information late will result in IRS penalties that have increased this year. * Amounts for standard mileage, standard deductions, personal exemptions and the Alternative Minimum Tax have increased. Note there are different standard mileage rates for miles driven before July 1 and after June 30. Details about all increases are in IRS Publication 17 at www.irs.gov. * Among the tax breaks available last year but expired for this year are the Making Work Pay Credit and Alternative

Motor Vehicle Credit (unless it was a new fuel cell vehicle). The Making Work Pay Credit was essentially replaced by the payroll tax holiday for 2011. Employees and self-employed already received the tax benefit in 2011 paychecks through a reduction in the FICA-OASDI Social Security taxes. Unlike the Making Work Pay Credit, employees who benefited from the payroll tax holiday don’t need to claim it on this year’s tax return. * Unless lawmakers extend them, this will be the last year to claim the following breaks: Tuition and Fees Deduction, Nonbusiness Energy Credit, the refundable Adoption Credit, Educator Expense Deduction, option for those with itemized deductions to deduct state and local sales taxes paid in lieu of state and local income taxes paid and mortgage insurance premiums deduction. * The amount of the Health Coverage Tax Credit decreased to 72.5 percent for qualified health insurance coverage received between March and December 2011. * If you converted a traditional IRA over to a designated Roth IRA in 2010, or rolled over a qualified retirement plan to a Roth IRA, but did not report the taxable amount on your 2010 tax return (due April 2011), you must report half of the amount on this year’s return and the other half on your 2012 return. Details are available in IRS Publication 575. With so much of your hard-earned money at stake and our complex tax law, it’s no wonder a growing number of Americans use tax preparation solutions. “Trusted solutions like TaxACT navigate all the tax law changes for you to help maximize your refund, file a return that’s 100

“Dance” from pg 19

Tickets General $28, Seniors $20. Students 20 & under and Active Duty Military Free! Ticket and venue information is available by calling 333-1283 or visiting ensemblemonterey.org.

••• Program: Ballet de Cour ~ Gabriel Pierne • Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun ~ Claude Debussy • Concierto Del Angel ~ Astor Piazzolla Saturday, February 11 Hidden Valley Institute of the Performing Arts. Insights from the Conductor 7:00pm, Concert 8:00pm Sunday, February 12 Cabrillo College Recital Hall. Insights from the Conductor 6:00pm, Concert 7:00pm

percent accurate and provide help when you need it,” says Dolmage. When choosing a tax preparation solution, especially free products, Dolmage warns you to carefully weigh your options. “TaxACT Free Federal Edition covers all 1040 returns, but other free programs are only for 1040EZ returns, sometimes referred to as ‘simple returns’. The nearly nine out of 10 taxpayers who have more complex returns don’t qualify for those.” n ••• For information about these and other tax law changes affecting this year’s tax return, visit www.irs.gov and www.taxact.com/taxinfo.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2012 / 21

FeaturedColumnist The Book Bag by Robert Francis

The Book Bag by Robert Francis

Ten Little Caterpillars

By Bill Martin Jr. Illustrated by Lois Ehlert Beach Lane. $17.99 (Ages 2-6) he big, vibrant, colorful illustrations make this picture book something special and one that small children will enjoy looking at. A number of little caterpillars crawl over a variety of large flowers, leaves and veggies. Other creatures like spiders, ladybugs, birds and even a large fish, are included in the various scenes. The text is fairly simple and the author does provide the names of all the foliage, flowers and other critters as well as a limited narrative. Then, at the end of the book, you’ll find ten caterpillars, such as the mourning cloak and cabbage looper, along with an illustration of the moth or butterfly they change into. This illustrated guide also includes a little information on what each caterpillar likes to munch upon. Not only is this a very eye appealing book, but it also serves as the ideal introduction to caterpillars and the transformation they undergo to become moths or butterflies.

Light Up the Night

By Jean Reidy Illustrated by Margaret Chodos-Irvine Hyperion. $16.99 (Ages 4-8) he youngster featured in this book begins by introducing the reader to his universe and the planets and stars that “glow bright and light up the night.” From outer space he then heads down towards Earth, his “own little piece of the universe.” The journey continues as the next focus is on the child’s country, then his town, his house, his room and then his very own bed. The rhymed narrative makes this not only a pleasant read aloud book but also

Give a child a book for Valentine’s Day …

one that beginning readers should be able to handle without too much d i f f i c u l t y. Introducing children to the concept that we are part of a much bigger world is also a good idea and this picture book does so in a free and easy manner.

Home-Field Advantage

By Justin Tuck Illustrated by Leonardo Rodriguez Simon & Schuster. $16.99 (Ages 4-8) rofessional football player Justin Tuck of the New York Giants narrates this picture boot that explains why he is such a tough professional a t h l e t e . “When people ask me how I got to be so tough, I say, ‘You’d be tough too, if you grew up with my five sisters!’” In this book, Tuck describes the time when he was a little boy and his sisters decided to give him a haircut. Snip, snip, snip! What he ended up with was a “reverse Mohawk” and poor Justin was so embarrassed he hid in his room. The illustrations in this picture book are cute and draw the reader into what is a “so-so” narrative. Anyone with lots of siblings can relate to this story, but otherwise it probably won’t appeal to a wide audience other than Tuck’s New York fan base. I seriously doubt that plastering “NFL SUPERSTAR” on the cover will do much to boost the sales of this book!

22 / February 2012 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Race the Wild Wind A Story of the Sable Island Horses

By Sandra Markle Illustrated by Layne Johnson Walker. $17.99 (Ages 4-8) ocated off the coast of Nova Scotia, arc shaped Sable Island is the home to about 300 wild horses. This picture book tells the story of how these sturdy animals have weathered storms and other inclement conditions and actually thrived in the rugged environment. T h e story begins with the horses swimming ashore after being taken out to the island on a sailing ship. Once on the island, the small herd had to acclimatize itself to the sand, wind and odd sea creatures they shared their new home with. Although there was no shelter from foul weather and snow, there was enough to eat and no natural predators to fear. Over the years the horses not only adapted to their new surroundings, they also thrived. Sandra Markle’s beautiful horse illustrations make this picture book all the more enjoyable. Any child who loves horses will relish this story and re-read it again and again.

No Two Alike

By Keith Baker Beach Lane. $16.99 (Ages 3-7) ust as no two snowflakes are alike, we see in this picture book that the two red birds also featured here are different. As the two curious birds explore their winter environment, they find there are different critter tracks in the snow, different branches on the trees, and even different snow covered fences separating the fields. The birds fly past birdhouses that are the winter homes of different sizes and kinds of birds and they notice different ani-

mals in the forest below. By the final page, the message is quite clear – we may be similar, but not exactly alike. With its wonderful winter motif, this picture book not only stresses the uniqueness of each creature and object shown, but with the white, snowy background, the brightly colored creatures like the birds also pop out at the reader.

It’s a Small World Sticker & Activity Book

Illustrated by Nancy Kubo Disney Press. $6.99 (Ages 5 and up) his activity book features lots of reusable stickers that can be put to good use in all sorts of ways. The youngster is invited to match animals to the clues describing them, pair smiling faces with hats from around the world, create his or her own jungle and safari scenes and place famous landmarks in the proper location. Some sections of the book show a scene from some international city and then in the space beneath it the child is asked to recreate the scene using the selection of stickers. The youngster can also let his or her imagination dictate how a scene should look given just the background or the child can use the stickers to make up an original story. Since the stickers do pose a choking hazard, no youngster who is still likely to place things in his or her mouth should be given this book. For older children, though, this is an ideal way of not only learning a little about geography and other cultures, but the use of the book also encourages creativity.

FeaturedColumnist

The Power of Feng Shui

Finding Mr. Right in the Modern Age

By Denise Vivar

he course of true love never did run smooth,” reasons Lysander in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, attempting to soothe Hermia as she despairs over love’s tribulations. Indeed, tragic love has historically been a popular theme — think of Lancelot and Guinevere, Orpheus and Eurydice, Rama and Sita, Bogart and Bergman, Pepé Le Pew and Penelope Pussycat. It would seem just about everything gets in the way of love’s progress: age, class, family, wars, body odor. If only someone enlisted the help of feng shui! Feng shui could have addressed these issues and more. This ancient energetic art originally used in burial rites, then later in homes and businesses, addresses many aspects in our lives regarding our families, communication, health, wealth, work and relationships. Things might have been different for poor little Romeo Montague had he and the Capulets worked on their relationship and family sectors. But of course removing the drama removes the story’s seduction and box office appeal. Modern day love is no less fraught with its trials and perhaps even more so as we gather together less and Twitter more. Just finding one’s potential love interest is a challenge. Without the matchmakers and family to introduce us to potential partners, we’re left on our own to find and secure a match and we often stumble at this game. And the biggest obstacle to find-

ing love is our own psyches. Now we contend with body image issues, lack of confidence, and financial insecurities. The voice in our head tells us that we are unattractive and undesirable. We stand at life’s thresholds time and again (literal and metaphorical), shackled by timidity, shame or indecisiveness and we are frustrated because we cannot attract “Feng Shui” > 24

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2012 / 23

FeaturedColumnist

How to Square any multiple of 5 in your head

ne of the most common math problems is squaring a number, or multi- plying the number by itself. This is denoted by showing the number with a “2” subscript: 52 is read as “5 squared,” and means 5 × 5 = 25. In learning their multiplication tables, most school children learn to square the numbers up to about 10 and sometimes 11 or 12, but most schools never teach children to square larger numbers. Yet, with a little practice anyone can learn to square numbers up to 50, or even 100. In your head, without pencil and paper, and in most cases faster than you can type it into a calculator. In this lesson, I’ll show you how to square the multiples of 5, up to 100. That is, “Feng Shui” from pg 23

the love we so deserve. “Whoever loved that loved not at first sight?” Feng shui principal asserts that our internal environment, our psyche, is indelibly connected to our external environment and each are strongly affected by

5, 10, 15, ... 100. All you need to know is your multiplication tables up to 10. First, those that end in 0 are especially easy. To square any of the multiples of 10, all you do is square the left digit and say “hundred.” Or if you are writing it, square the left digit then add “00.” For example, to calculate 30 squared, or 30 × 30, multiply 3 by itself to get 9, and then say “hundred:” 302 = 900. Seventy squared, 70, is 4900. Just multiply the 7 by itself to get 49, then say “hundred.” The numbers ending in 5 (15,25,35, etc.)

are almost as easy. The key fact to remember is that all these answers end in 25. So, the last part of your answer is always “25.” The first part is just the first digit of the number times the next higher digit. Example 1: Find the square of 65, that is, 65 × 65. The first digit is 6, and 6+1 = 7, so multiply 6 and 7 to get 42, then say “25.” The answer is 4225. Example 2: Find the square of 85. The first digit is 8, 8+1 = 9, 8×9 is 72, then say 25. The answer is 7225. Now you can square 20% of the integers up to 100. In future issues, I’ll explain how to do the others, as well as other interesting math ideas. n •••

Bert Lundy is the Director of Learn for Excellence tutoring center, 1929 Main Street, Watsonville. 831-656-2094.

one another. Feng shui not only deals with placement of objects, but also with flow of energy and balance of elements - the disposition of which are married to our thoughts, attitudes and behaviors. The issue of attracting love in our life would then be addressed on a holistic level - our relationships are a product of all that we believe and invite into our lives.

For centuries, people have proclaimed the profound results of the conscious alignment of their internal environment with their external environment. Many a wooing woman has described feeling more secure, attractive and better able to connect with others by applying the principles of feng shui. It stands to reason that if we meet love and life on our terms with

confidence and the feeling of wholeness we are nothing less than utterly alluring. n ••• Denise Vivar assists single women looking for Mr. Right by helping them break through blocks to finding and attracting the right man using the power feng shui. Workshop starting Feb. 13. Contact her at PowerOfRadiance@ gmail.com for more information.

In this lesson, I’ll show you how to square the multiples of 5, up to 100.

24 / February 2012 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

FeaturedColumnist

Riddle: What time will it be when the future shows up?

By Camille Smith

To kick off the “how” discussion, let’s look at our relationship with the future. Our conventional, well-entrenched wisdom tells us that the future is something out there that will show up some day. Tomorrow, maybe, but not today. Oh, and about tomorrow. Orphan Annie reminds us: “Tomorrow! Tomorrow! I love ya Tomorrow! You’re always a day away!” (For those who prefer Steve Miller’s “Fly like an eagle”: Time keeps on slippin’, slippin’, slippin’ into the future) Maybe that puts a crimp in our plans. Maybe not. hat time is it? For another perspective of the future, consider Eckhart Tolle’s view of time from The Power of Now: • We are conditioned to think in terms of [three distinct domains of time] past, present and future. • We are preoccupied with looking both backwards and forwards, anything rather than focus on the present, the here and now. • We focus on the past because this is what gives us our sense of identity and what has led us to the life circumstances that we currently face. • We focus on the future because this is where all our dreams and fears will play out. • We can never actually experience the past or the future. The past is gone. We only ever experience it as a whole series of NOW’s when we talk or think about it in the present. The same will be true of the future: when it arrives it will be NOW. The only thing that ever has any What is not started today is never finished tomorrow real, underlying validity, — Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is the present, the Now. Combine what Your turn: Take one action now that matches Tolle says with your the future you desire. own experience and Ghandi’s familiar shift to you invited I In December’s column, quote: Be the change Big a creating from making resolutions to you wish to see Enough WHY? for 2012 — a shift from being in the world. resolved (with crossed fingers) to being comWhen we “be” mitted. the change we wish to see, we (Link to either TPG’s online of last column or behave today, http://www.wipcoaching.com/2011/12/29/bring-inright now, in a the-new-year-with-a-big-enough-why/) manner that’s consistent with the future we desire. By doing so, we generate the future now.

ow’s it going? One of the questions that naturally arises once you have your B.E.WHY is, HOW? How do I make the unpredictable happen? There is a methodology to achieving breakthrough results. That’s what we’re talking about here, not just incremental improvement, but a break from the predictable. (BTW, incremental is fine and appropriate in many situations.) Repeatedly and reliably producing breakthrough results requires, among other things, expanding self-awareness, questioning beliefs, going beyond comfort zones, thinking in new ways, and welcoming breakdowns. All that requires a particular way of being.

Whatever you want to experience or be someday, in the future, act and be that way today. Behave today in a way that’s consistent with your future commitment. If you are committed to someday working with people who respect and trust each other, act, as best you can, in a trusting manner with your co-workers today. If you are committed to having more transparent relationships, reveal yourself today. And do it again when the next today comes around. Being and repeating the behavior consistently brings about the change we wish to see. WIPC TIP: Kick start your year by creating and keeping a commitment that takes no more than a week or two to complete. This spark of success will light the fuse for fulfilling other commitments for the year.

Planning’s good, acting gets results. Where you are is the best (and only) starting place. This isn’t about doing it perfectly; it’s about engaging and discovering your own answer to How? Take action NOW, not tomorrow, which is (sing along with me) always a day a way. Now, answer the riddle. Take care, Camille Smith n ••• Office: 831-685-1480 ~ Mobile: 831-2515190. President, Work In Progress Coaching ~ Turning potential into results ~ www.wipcoaching.com Camille LIVE Video: www.wipcoaching.com/ the-brightside-of-burnout/ Free Webinar: Values & Engagement: unboundideas.com/past-events/camille-smith/ Global Leaders: www.openaction.org/gwln

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2012 / 25

CommunityNews

There’s Still Time for 2011 Tax Relief!

f you’re just beginning to think about your 2011 income tax return, you’ve got a late start – but it’s still not too late to cash in on some savings. “A lot of the deductions associated with the economic stimulus package will disappear in 2012, so if you want to take advantage of them, you’ve got only until Dec. 31,” says Jessica James, CPA and author of Justice for None (www.AuthorJessicaJames.com), an insider look at IRS tactics in a tax fraud investigation and trial. But, she says, there’s still plenty of time for some other measures to ease your share of the tax burden. Now is also a good time to resolve to start earlier in 2012 to minimize that year’s tax bill. Here are some tips for both 2011 and 2012 savings: • Contribute to retirement accounts. If you haven’t already put money into your traditional or ROTH IRA account for 2011, you’ve got until April 17 to do it. If you

have a Keogh or S E P (Simplified Employee Pension Individual Retirement Arrangement for businesses), and you get a filing extension to Oct. 15, you’ve got until then to make your 2011 deposits. The maximum IRA contribution for 2011 is $5,000, or $6,000 if you’re 50 or older by the end of the year. For self-employed people, the maximum for SEPs and Keoghs for 2011 is $49,000. • Don’t fear the home office deduction. In the past, many tax filers didn’t claim a home office deduction because it was seen as an IRS red flag. But the requirements and forms have been clarified so people can do that properly – and not make mistakes that can lead to an

a u d i t . Also, the rules have b e e n expanded so more people can claim the deduction. If you use a home office exclusively for business, even if you don’t meet your clients there, you’re eligible. For instance, a handyman who does his work other people’s houses can claim the deduction if he does his paperwork at his home office. Another change is that, in the past, if you claimed 10 percent of your home as an office, that amount would not be included in the $250,000 tax-free profit from the home’s sale that’s allowed for an individual by the IRS. Be sure to make your claim reasonable, or it will get questioned; a $25,000 home office deduction for a business with $50,000 annual gross revenue is not reasonable. • Maximize your Flexible Spending Account. The Health Care Act will limit the maximum you can put into these pre-tax medical expense accounts in 2013. So 2012

is the last year to use an FSA to pay for orthodontics and other large medical expenses using pre-tax earnings. A medical expense flexible spending account, or FSA, allows you to use before-tax earnings to pay for medical or health care expenses not covered by your health insurance. Assuming a 25 percent tax rate, you avoid $25 in taxes for every $100 you spend from your FSA. • Need to sell an investment? Next year may be the time. The Tax Relief Act maintains the tax rate cap on capital gains and dividends at 15 percent through 2012. In 2013, the cap for capital gains will increase to 20 percent and for dividends, 39.6 percent. The Health Care Act also created a 3.8 percent Medicare tax on investment income, effective in 2013. Given those scheduled increases, plan to take advantage of the rates next year. n ••• Jessica James is a CPA and the author of a novel, Justice for None, about her experiences as a minor target in a major federal tax fraud case. After her ordeal, she decided to write about it as a warning to others who think they can take on the government and win.

MarineBIOS, Marine and Coastal Map Viewer

Bella Dawna Integrity Automotive Rio Del Mar Mexican Cuisine Robert & Co. Upper Crust Pizza & Pasta Work in Progress

26 / February 2012 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

he California Department of Fish and Game (DFG) today announced a new marine and coastal map viewer, called MarineBIOS. This interactive map is a new tool for accessing California statewide marine spatial planning data. Users can visually explore and retrieve pertinent marine and coastal spatial planning information compiled for past and present DFG projects, including Marine Protected Area (MPA) planning. Located at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/marine/gis/vie wer.asp, the website is an in-depth source of information about California’s MPAs, as well as some of the more common spatial planning data that was used to create those MPA regulations. For example, users may look up information on the distribution of kelp canopies, benthic and intertidal habitats, important marine managed areas or points of interest relevant to marine user groups. The site is a strong starting point for potential additional data and customized tools in support of DFG projects and constituents. “This map viewer marks a significant milestone in our effort to manage and make available planning data for marine and coastal constituents,” DFG Director Charlton H. Bonham said. “It’s also cost-effective as it

was done in-house, using existing department technology and expertise.” DFG’s Marine Region and Biogeographic Data Branch collaborated to develop this new website by building on the department’s existing Geographic Information System capability. This map viewer was developed entirely in-house and is part of a larger program called Biogeographic Information and Observation System (BIOS) that provides data-rich web map viewers for the department, its constituents and partners. n ••• More information about the DFG Marine Region is available at www.dfg.ca.gov/marine. The DFG Biogeographic Data Branch website is located at www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata.

FeaturedColumnist

&About

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Bakeries in Watsonville wo bakeries in Watsonville well worth a visit are Bagel Café & Bakery and Freedom Bakery & Confections. I sampled their goodies recently and they’re turning out some delicious stuff. Bagel Café makes semi-sweet bread – similar to brioche – that is simply delicious, as well as every flavor of bagel you can imagine. They also make specialty coffees, salads, cakes, pies and pan dulce. Freedom Bakery makes a cookie that I absolutely love. It’s a latte shortbread dipped in Belgian chocolate. They specialize in custom made cakes, gifts and favors of all kinds for weddings, parties and corporate events, so they don’t have a store we can visit, unfortunately. But their custom cakes and cupcakes are available at Windmill Market in San Juan Bautista and Scotts Valley Market in Scotts Valley. Bagel Café & Bakery, 1830 Main St., Watsonville, 722-3838. www.bagelcafebakery.com. Freedom Bakery & Confections, 125 Hangar Way #120, Watsonville, 866-5487266. www.FBandC.com.

Eat Local am a great believer in supporting local businesses – including eating local food. When I received a book in the mail entitled “Eat Local: Simple Steps to Enjoy Real, Healthy & Affordable Food,” I was more than happy to keep it on my bookshelf for reference. “Eat Local” includes the why’s and how’s of finding, purchasing, preserving and using local foods, eating seasonally, and eating less meat. The author is Jasia Steinmetz, a food and nutrition professor of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in the School of

Health Promotion & Human Development. “Eat Local” covers a wide range of topics such as: Convenience; Children’s Health; Economics; Key benefits of local foods; Seasonal local food-eating strategies; Local food cooking and preparation tips – and much, much more. The book is available at www.Amazon.com and other online booksellers. Learn more at www.EatLocalSimpleSteps.com.

The Penny Ice Creamery’s second location — The Picnic Basket he Penny Ice Creamery people – and that would be owners Kendra Baker and Zachary Davis – opened up a second location last year in June called The Picnic Basket. As well as their delicious ice cream, they serve salads and soups made with ingredients from local farms and artisan food makers including The Rib King, El Salchichero, Companion Bakers, Verve coffee, and kraut from Farmhouse Culture. This place really does a brisk business with all these different choices. It’s time to pay them a visit if you haven’t done so already. The Picnic Basket, 125 Beach St., Suite B, Santa Cruz, 427-9946.

By Josie Cowden

the knife? How is one expected to slice through meat, potatoes and what have you with the blunt edge of a fork. Does one have to commit the absolute sin of biting off a chunk of food at the end of one’s fork while the rest remains suspended on the tines? If one is served tiny bites of food, such as a bowl of rice, then a

fork is not really needed. Otherwise, I prefer not to struggle with just a fork and I always politely ask my host for a knife as well. n ••• Josie Cowden is a freelance writer and proofreader. Contact her at ravenone274@comcast.net.

Super Bowl

Chowhound Cooking Classes f you have ever thought of upping your skills in the culinary arts, i.e. learning to cook really healthy and tasty food, then Denise Ward has the answer. Ward has four cooking classes coming up in February and more set for March. The classes are held in Ward’s Aptos home and they’re always upbeat and fun – and you get to eat the spoils afterward. Info: www.chowhoundcooks.com or email denise@chowhoundcooks.com or call 600-5794.

Distinguished Artists Concerts and Lecture Series his is a heads up for two wonderful concerts set for Feb. 4 and Feb. 5 at the Cabrillo Crocker Theater in Aptos. They will feature the Chamber Orchestra Kremlin and acclaimed piano soloist Sara Davis Beuchner. Info: www.distinguishedartists.org.

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Dining Etiquette can never understand why one is given just a fork to eat a meal. Please, where is

11. It can be white-tailed 45. The infamous 66. *Defensive ___ 30. Pass away ACROSS JonBenet ______ or black-tailed 68. Quechuan people 1. No longer required to 35. A graduate case 69. Inanimate thing that 12. He/she "____ on the 37. Of sound mind lick this 49. Site of 2016 safe side" talks? 39. Specialty 6. *Kick catcher Olympics 70. Electric swimmer 15. Bushy tree growth 40. *Can be used to 9. Manufactured describe a safety 71. Not fashion-minded 20. *Tony Siragusa's 51. Preacher's platform 13. BBQ spot 54. Show contempt nickname 72. Volcano action 14. Argonaut's propeller 41. Item in diary 56. Nincompoop 15. Inside of a jacket 43. To finish with a ceil- 73. Wade's opponent 22. Egyptian cobra 57. Peach and strawber74. Austin Powers creator 24. Trusted advisors 16. Lusitania's destroyer ing ry preserves, e.g. 25. *Last year's MVP 17. *___ Bowl, 1 week 44. Twig of willow tree 26. Nonchalantly uncon- 58. Summit location before Super Bowl 46. It includes upward DOWN 59. Traffic controller cerned and downward dogs 1. Basketball star Tim 18. _____ peace 27. Derived from gold 60. "I ____ it!" Duncan, e.g. 47. It replaced the ECU 19. Type of sale 61. Not in use 21. *Last year's winner 48. Food of the gods? 2. Inhibition resulting 29. Like a clown from social custom 31. *Hall-of-Famer and 62. Heart pain 23. International trade 50. "Where the Wild Super Bowl XXIII MVP 63. Hair removal prodThings Are" rollick 3. A-bomb particle organization uct 52. Teacher's favorite 4. *Most frequent Super 32. Frost over 24. Screen material 64. #22 Down, pl. 33. Frodo Baggins' Bowl host 53. *A field goal wide 25. Legal group 67. What's old is new homeland 5. Sometimes mashed right, e.g. 28. Process of seeping 34. Feudal lord's property again, prefix 55. Immeasurable period 6. Antonym of "yup" 57. *She infamously 7. ENT's first concern? 36. *Team captains do it on the 50 yard line 8. Figure of speech had a wardrobe 38. Consequently 9. Not to be worn, malfunction © Statepoint Media according to PETA 42. Mandarin's head61. *This year's host Answers on 31 » quarters 10. ____ Hathaway 65. Repent www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2012 / 27

Announcements

Volunteers Needed to Help Get GMO Foods Labeled

olunteer signature gatherers are needed to get “The Label GMO Food Act” on the 2012 California ballot this fall. According to the US Congressional Research Service, 60% - 70% of processed foods likely contain genetically engineered materials but they are not labeled as such. One-hour training workshops will be held to review the procedures to successfully gather signatures. Volunteers are asked to commit to a three-hour time slot per week over an eight week period from midFebruary through April 18. Trainings will take place at the New Leaf Community Markets, 1101 Fair Ave., Santa Cruz on Sunday, Feb. 12, from 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm. To sign up or for more information, visit www.labelgmos.org/santacruz or email gmofreesc@gmail.com.

Al-Anon

re you bothered by someone else’s drinking? Al-Anon is a 12-Step program for family and friends of alcoholics. There are meetings every day of the week and there are no dues or fees. For a meeting near you call 831-462-1818 or visit www.ncwsa.org/d23. Everyone is welcome.

Ongoing Events Ongoing thru April 1

Rain Forest Excursions at Roaring Camp

Everyday at 12:30 pm earn about California's own Rain forests (of coastal redwoods.) As guests ride at branch level through a virgin rain forest by steam train, fascinating information about the California coastal redwoods and forest ecosystem is revealed. Tickets are $24 for adults, $ 17 for children. Parking is $8. For more information, call (831) 335-4484

First Mondays of the Month

Lecture Series on "Great Decisions"

7:00pm-8:30 pm, Episcopal Church of St. John, 125 Canterbury Dr. in Aptos ectures will be lead by Dr. Laina FarhatHolzman, sponsored by Santa Cruz Beach, American Association of University Women. For more information, call (831) 688-0541

Second and Fourth Mondays First and Third Wednesdays

Alzheimers Support Groups

Monday: 2:00 - 3:30pm Wednesday: 5:30 – 7:00pm Conference Room at Elena Baskin/Live Oak Senior Center, 1777-A Capitola Rd, Santa Cruz acilitated by Jill Ginghofer, this group is for caregivers and family members of people with Alzheimers.

Tuesdays

Women Care Drop in Cancer Support

rop in Support Group is a gathering for women with all types of cancer. We offer support for women through all stages from diagnoses through treatment. For more information or to register call (831) 457-2273

Tuesdays thru Fridays, Sundays

Saturday February 4

Intro To Svaroopa® Yoga

Svaroopa® Yoga Instruction at Aptos Yoga

Aptos Yoga, 783 Rio Del Mar Blvd. Ste.23B, Aptos. 831-688-1019 varoopa® Yoga is very different from what most of us think of as yoga. With the support of blankets, beginning students relax into easy poses designed to release the deepest tensions in the body along the spine. This release deeply relaxes the body, quiets the mind, reduces pain, accelerates injury recovery, and promotes better overall health. Classes five days each week. First Class free. For more information, call 688-1019 www.aptosyoga.org

First Tuesdays and Third Wednesdays each month

Orientations to Become Advocates for Children

North County, 5:30-7p.m., first Tuesday of month (for location details contact Danielle at 761-2956 X102) South County, 5:30-7 p.m., third Wednesday of the month at the CASA Office, 294 Green Valley Rd. Suite 326, Watsonville. ASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Santa Cruz County needs your help. Volunteer 3-5 hours per week to provide support, guidance, and a powerful voice in court for children who have been removed from their homes because of abuse or neglect. Everyone welcome, men and bilingual folks especially encouraged. To RSVP call 761-2956 Ext. 102, or email Danielle@casaofsantacruz.org

Wednesdays

Cooking Course on Cancer Prevention and Survival

thru February 15, 6:00pm-8:00pm, New Leaf Community Markets, 1101 Fair Ave. Santa Cruz hysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine is sponsoring a 4-week course entitled “Food for Life: The Power of Food for Cancer Prevention and Survival.” Learn how proper diet can help prevent and survive cancer. Topics: how foods fight cancer; beneficial low-fat, high-fiber foods; dairy and meat alternatives; cancer-fighting compounds; and healthy weight control. $95 To register, visit www.cancerproject.org/ classes, call 831-325-381l, or email simplynutritious@gmail.com

Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay ADHD Support Group Meetings

6:30pm-8:00pm at Mar Vista Elementary School on Soquel Dr. or more information, contact Jude Brenis at jbrenis@sbcglobal.net or call (831) 684-0590 Overeaters Anonymous 6:30-7:30pm at Teach by the Beach #50 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos For more information, call (831) 429-7906

First Wednesday of the Month

Child Welfare Review

6:00pm- 9:00pm 1400 Emeline Avenue room 206, Santa Cruz. he orientation is designed to review the child welfare system and to give you a chance to have your question answered by child welfare staff. To register to one of the meeting and for directions, please call 454-4024.

28 / February 2012 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Fourth Wednesday each Month

Ongoing Constitution Classes

7:00 pm Quaker Meeting House, 225 Rooney St. Santa Cruz iew video lessons of an in-depth teaching about our Constitution, one of the most respected and copied documents in our nations history. For more information, visit www.meetup.com/santacruz-freedom-forum or email scfreedomforum@gmail.com

Thursdays

Capitola-Aptos Rotary Club Meeting

12-1:30 p.m. at Seascape Golf Course. ontact Doug at 831- 724-9192 or e-mail dnakashima@razzolink.com for more information.

City Council Member Stephanie Harlan to hold Office Hours in Capitola Mall

1:00pm-4:00pm Capitola Mall ouncil Member Harlan will meet with residents and persons interested in discussing City issues at Capitola Mall. She looks forward to meeting with her constituents and encourages Capitola residents to stop by and meet with her. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (831) 475-7184

ired of Clutter? Stuff piling up? Support is available. CLA meeting every Friday. For more info call 426-1868 FREE

Saturdays

Come As You Are Zen

9-10:30 am, Ocean Gate Zendo, 920 41st Ave. Suite B, Santa Cruz (next to Family Cycling Center) ome as you are Zen focuses on Buddhist practices that enhance our daily lives. This will be an informal talk with time for discussion. Free - donation accepted. Visit oceangatezen.org for more info.

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Aptos Certified Farmers Market

8:00 -12:00pm at Cabrillo College, Aptos. he Aptos Market, with over 80 vendors, is open year round, with the best selections of fresh fruits and vegetables, plants, seedlings, flowers, local honey, fresh eggs, fresh fish, artisan baked goods and gourmet foods. In addition, family activities, music, cooking demos by professional chefs, gardening workshops, seasonal fairs and events are a part of the market.

Scotts Valley Farmer’s Market

9a.m.-1p.m. SV Community Center, 360 Kings Village Drive www.santacruzfarmersmarket.org

Dated Events

Second Thursdays of the Month

Veterans of Foreign Wars

6:30 pm, 2259 7th Ave. Santa Cruz ommander: Ronals Petty. For more information, call (831) 475-9804

Second and Fourth Thursdays of the month

Cabrillo Host Lions

7:30pm at the Cabrillo Community Center, Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Rd. ublic is invited to all programs. Contact President Paul Henry 831-688-31 or Past President Barbara Chamberlain at 831-688-3356. For meeting/dinner reservations or information or visit www.cabrillohostlions.org.

Fridays

Clutterers Anonymous

5:30-6:45 Sutter Maternity & Surgical Center, 2900 Chanticleer Ave, Soquel Dr. Santa Cruz.

Wednesday February 1

9 – 10:30 am, Aptos Yoga, 783 Rio Del Mar Blvd, Ste 23B, Aptos. 688-1019 xperience how Svaroopa® Yoga works in your body at an introductory class – FREE with no obligations. Supported by blankets, you’ll relax into poses that release deep tensions in your spine. This unique form of yoga quiets your mind, reduces pain, and accelerates injury recovery. For more information and registration, call 688-1019 or email chudala@aptosyoga.org. www.aptosyoga.org.

Saturday February 11 Local Government and Non-Profit Agencies Respond to Foreclosure Crisis

1:00pm-5:00pm St. Matthias Episcopal Church 1092 Noche Buena St. Seaside his event, hosted by the Central Coast Foreclosure Collaborative, will bring together a panel of experts with information to help homeowners facing foreclosure or who have been through foreclosure who want to know what to expect and what options may be available. For more information, visit watsonvillelawcenter.org or call (831) 722-2845

Sunday February 12 Women's Crisis Support

9:00am-10:00am, Santa Cruz Roller Palladuim, 1606 Seabright Ave. Santa Cruz omen's Crisis Support-Defensa de Mujeres and Jazzercise will lead a one hour Jazzercise workout along with a raffle to benefit survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault served by the Women's Crisis Support-Defensa de Mujeres. $10 minimum donation required. This event is open to all. For more information contact Lucila at (831) 707-2200 or email lucila@wes-ddm.org. You can also visit www.wcs-ddm.org

Wednesday February 15 Freedom Forum Presents: ‘Blue Gold,’ a Film by Sam Bozzo

Thursday February 2

Thursday February 23

Open House: Good Shepherd Catholic School

5:30-7:30pm, 2727 Mattison Lane, SC our the school, visit classrooms, view the allschool art exhibit in the gym, and ask questions of the Good Shepherd faculty and parents. Good Shepherd Catholic School offers affordable Catholic education in preschool through 8th grade. Financial assistance is available. To learn more, visit wwwgsschool, or call (831) 476-4000

Winter Seminar Series focusing on LinkedIn

12:00-1:30pm, Best Western Sea Cliff Inn, Aptos oin us for the first class of a three part Social Media Series with special guest instructor Karen Kefauver. Karen is a social media consultant and journalist. This class is a snapshot of LinkedIn for your business. Social media is an effective tool for your business, but only if you know how to use it effectively. $25.00 per class, Optional lunch $15.00. Reservations required, call (831) 688-1467 or email info@aptoschamber.com, or visit www.aptoschamber.com

7:00pm, Live Oak Grange, 1900 17th Ave. Santa Cruz atch & discuss this "must see" film about the diminishing water supply. This international, award-winning film sheds light on the worlds rapidly approaching water crisis, suggesting that wars of the future will be fought over water. Freedom Forum meets every third Wednesday. To learn more, visit www.meetup.com/santacruz-freedom-forum

Business Showcase ’12, ‘Go for the Green’

3:30pm-7:00pm, Capitola Mall he Business Showcase is an excellent opportunity for business owners to network and form new business relationships. All businesses are welcome to be part of this exciting opportunity. Your business will be showcased to over 4000 people who need your services! To register to have a booth or table call the Aptos or Capitola Soquel Chambers of Commerce at (831) 688-1467 or (831) 4756522. Visit aptoschamber.com for more information. n

Intriguing changes are happening quite subtly. Your ruler Neptune, slips into your sign and a shift in your attitudes and beliefs is likely. You may be a little lethargic and not at all competitive or motivated but this is fine. You have a way of having your finger on the pulse and can easily tune into the mood of the moment. You have an intuitive link to others which could be the start of something very important. The Sun moves into Pisces on the 19th and this is the start of a new phase for you. In the meantime, set your intentions and and also your boundaries.

Pisces (Feb. 19-Mar. 20)

Announcements

Thursdays thru February 9

Learn to Square Dance with the Lucky Steppers

rtists/Crafts people volunteers Share your talent and make creative expression possible by leading an art group of care facility residents. Become an Ageless Art Project Volunteer. For information call 459-8917 ext. 208

SPECTRA Arts Learning

Fridays

Ageless Art Project

he Cultural Council of Santa Cruz County is seeking stories and anecdotes from people with current or past experience with SPECTRA Arts Learning. These stories will serve as examples of successes students have found through the Council’s SPECTRA program over the years, and may be used to promote the Council’s Arts Learning Resource Directory. If you are an artist, parent, teacher or student with a story to share about your experience with SPECTRA, you are invited to send a brief narrative to Sonia Deetz at the Cultural Council: sonia@ccscc.org.

Ongoing Events

Mondays

Live Team Trivia

6:00pm (starting February 6th), Brunos BBQ 230 G Mt Hermon RD. Scotts Valley eams for trivia can be as few as one person or as large as 20! Great prizes for 1st and 2end place teams. No cost to play.

Mondays and Wednesdays

Salsa Rueda Class

7:00pm at Louden Nelson Center, 301 Center St., Santa Cruz. earn Salsa Rueda. For more information visit www.salsaruedasantacruz.com or call 831-457-7432

Tuesdays

BINGO

6:30 p.m. Santa Cruz Elks Lodge, 150 Jewell St. osted by Soquel Sports Foundation. BuyIn $25. Also, we have a special BINGO, celebrating our 2nd anniversary, on Sept. 28 at 6:30. Buy-in only $15. www.soquelsports.com

Tuesdays and Weekends

Live Music on the Esplanade

Paradise Beach Grille 215 Esplanade, Capitola. ive music weekends and acoustic guitar Tuesdays. For schedule and more information: (831) 476-4900 Or visit paradisebeachgrille.com

Wednesdays

Peninsula Banjo Band

7:00 - 8:30 p.m., Harry’s Hofbrau, 390 Saratoga Ave, San Jose orty-seven years of performing in the Bay Area, over 250 popular tunes. Come see our band for Free in Sunnyvale Every Wednesday. No cover. Contact Lee McLaughlin, Booking Agent, at 408-993-BAND (2263) for information about booking the band for Non-profit events (donations are tax deductible). www.PeninsulaBanjoBand.org

6:30 pm, German-American Hall, 230 Plymouth St. Santa Cruz he Lucky Steppers invite you to learn to square dance! Classes are held every thursday night. Couples are welcome. Call (831) 722-1131 for more information.

Ballroom Dancing

7:30- 11:00pm at Mid-County Senior Center, 829 Bay Ave, Capitola. ive music by The Rainbows. Refreshments, large floor, friendly atmosphere, free parking. All for a donation of $8 per person.

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First Fridays of each month

he First Friday Art Tour is a Santa Cruz Institute of Contemporary Arts event, managed in conjunction with the participating art venues. The event takes place year-round and illuminates some of the most talented local artists from local galleries. To find out where to participate in a First Friday art tour, visit firstfridaysantacruz.com (Most galleries are open 12-9 pm for First Friday viewings.)

First Friday Art Tour

Every other Friday

Shakespeare Club of Santa Cruz

10:30-12:30 pm, First Congregational

have a play day. Great time for Valentine's Day gifts. $45, includes boxes and materials. Call Janet: 831-335-0553 or email jwmarketingad@aol.com

Fourth Friday of each month

Saturday February 4 Sunday February 5

Church, 900 High St. Santa Cruz, Next: January 27 hakespeare's club is seeking new members to join in the study of his plays. For more information, visit www.fridayshakespeare.org

Musical Me Inc. Family Jam Night

6:30-8:30p.m. 239 High St., Santa Cruz. ring your favorite music to dance to and any instruments you'd like to share or perform with. Sliding Scale donation per family of $10-$25 (all proceeds going to our scholarship fund.) For more information call 831-438-3514.

Fourth Saturdays of each month

Writers and Poets Open Mike

2:00pm-4:00pm, Porter Memorial Library, 3050 Porter St. Soquel riters and Poets are invited to a new monthly open mike reading series. Come and read your fiction, essays, or poetry. For more information, call Jean at (831) 475-4221

Dated Events Saturday February 4

Play Day in the Arts: Just Making Boxes

10:00-1:00pm, Downtown Felton ust Making Boxes is about using recycled materials and making one-of-a-kind boxes. This class is designed for professional women who wish to take a break &

Building Blocks: Winds and Piano in Combination

Saturday: 8:00pm, Sunday: 3:00pm Christ Lutheran church 10707 Soquel Dr. Aptos he audience will hear compositions from the late 19th and 20th centuries featuring delightful and diverse combinations of these melodic instruments directed by oboist Peter Lemberg, with Jeffrey Gallagher. Tickets are available for 1/2 hour before the performance, and at Santacruztickets.com.. For more information, call (831) 425-3149 or e mail m@scchamberplayers.org

Saturday February 11

Aptos Highschool's Zumbathon

11:00am-1:00pm, Aptos High Gym ow's your new year's resolution to get fit going? Need motivation? Want to have some fun? Well ditch the workout and join the PARTY! Don't miss the fun workout and dancing with friends. Support the school and save our programs. $10 entry fee. All proceeds go to support and sustain vital school programs & provide classroom supplies. n

It's time to change the rules a little and do something different. You are encouraged to be self expressive and allow your differences to shine, rather than trying to conform to what others expect from you. Initially, fantastic chemistry makes a relationship sizzle, and you have plans for a weekend away and a chance to get to know someone. Venus enters your sign on the 8th and you can look forward to a period of greater cooperation and a willingness from others to go with your ideas. After the 19th, you are a little more spiritual and reflective.

Aries (March 21-April 20)

Changes in your working life maybe something to do with your recent plans, or you find that you are having these disruptions forced on you. See this as a starting point for a new way of being. Perhaps ideas and dreams have been on the back burner while you attend to more practical concerns around money, but this could change this month. Jupiter is helpful in your sign and encourages growth and making the best of what you have. As such you are amazingly resourceful.

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

At last, you see your way forward, and while you have felt the situation hasn't been quite right previously, helpful influences ensure that you are on the right track. Sometimes you need confirmation this is so. Everything happens at the time it needs to although you have been justifiably impatient. You could be signing up for a course or learning new skills, which are more in line with what you really enjoy rather than what you are obliged to do. After the 19th, check out opportunities around work and see how circumstances conspire to put you in the spotlight.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

You instinctively feel that this is turning out to e a year of change and as such you are in the process of a leaving a situation but you will soon enter a new one. This could be around a relationship, or your working life, or simply you could be ditching outworn beliefs that no longer serve you. Welcome what is coming as it shows that you are on the right path. Take note of the Full Moon on the 7th as this falls in your chart area of finances, and what you do to earn a living. Working for yourself is becoming more of a possibility.

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

This is an important month for you Leo, as you and your special other take steps to deepen your relationship. The Sun in your opposite sign can give you clues about who you are and how others see you and you must take credit for how special you are, and what a difference you make. You know everyone needs to be appreciated, and you could do with a little more than you have been getting! The Full Moon on the 7th is your time to shine and brings matters to a head. After the 19th a shift in energy results in an important decision and a new way forward.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 23)

You feel at home this month, Virgo, and see that the world seems to be on the same wavelength as you, or much of it is. Your ruler, Mercury, joins the Sun in Aquarius — emotionally you are cool headed and practical, and can make sound judgments, but it always pays to do things a little differently with new information. Leading a healthy lifestyle is preferable as prevention is better than cure, so by practicing everything in moderation you will avoid your body and mind getting too stressed.

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sep. 22)

You cannot help learning just by watching, listening and absorbing what is going on around you. Some lessons take longer than others, and you may need more practice but even so, when you get chance to look back you see how far you have come. This month continues to offer you hope and opportunities and you see things in a wider context. The Aquarian Sun is inclusive of everyone, a great leveller and your natural fair mindedness has a chance to shine and put right what is necessary. Venus enters your opposite sign on the 8th, enhancing your relationships.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 23)

This month, Neptune, the most spiritual plenty enters Pisces. This is harmonious with your sign and you will find that relationships and situations that are guided by emotion play out much more than those based on logic. How you feel is more important than what you do and your goal needs to be find a peaceful heart and mind. Be authentic in what you do and how you express yourself, particularly around mid month. Take nothing for granted and work with what you are naturally good at.

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

You are travelling more than usual and there are plenty of people you want to see. Your plans are getting off the ground but you are waiting for some important information. Practical matters are being attended to and this is a great time to start an early spring clean or change your environment. Lend a helping hand to those who are just starting out. Creating better circumstances by taking on board good advice from experts and those who have had experience. Let your ambitions start to take shape.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

You are beginning to see your plans take shape and this month you are focusing on your finances. It may be necessary to budget a little or invest wisely, but you are also keen to help out someone who could do with a bit of good luck. Your common sense approach can give clear guidance to others which is welcome and useful. Have you ever thought of writing a book? If this is one of your recent ideas, it's worth pursuing. You add a new string to your bow through an unexpected opportunity.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20)

This month Neptune leaves your sign, and the fog clears. Perhaps this new clarity will motivate you to make the changes you know you must, if you are to see the progress you want. Mercury in your sign is also helping you to formulate plans, and play around with fresh ideas. It is as though you are looking for something but haven't yet found it. This makes more sense towards the end of the month when you get tangible results of just starting with a theory. Relationships improve with a feeling of cooperation rather than confrontation. ••• Find Out More www.AnnabelBurton.tv

Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb. 18)

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2012 / 29

CommunityNews From Watsonville to Santa Cruz Free estimates for new roofs, reroofs, repairs, or just some advice!

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call our offices 831.688.7549 30 / February 2012 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Treasure Hunting through Attic

Historian Says Pan the Paperwork for Gold

rom PBS’ “Antiques Roadshow” to A&E’s “Storage Wars,” reality TV has capitalized on our fascination with discovering treasure in household junk. It happened to historian Michael Mendoza, whose patient culling through boxes of old papers was rewarded when he found a Civil War veteran’s personal account of his experiences. The 17-page letter was so rich in detail, Mendoza (www.dentedcanenterprises.com) used it as the basis of his first novel, “Glorious Reality of War.” Mendoza owned an antiques store in 1997 when 95-year-old Alice Bowersock died in San Diego, Calif., he says. He acquired her estate: furniture, knickknacks, and stacks of boxes full of photographs, insurance policies and letters. Most people, Mendoza notes, might trash the papers right off the bat. “Don’t,” he says. “Toss or sell the knickknacks, and keep the paper. It can be invaluable.” Collectors value ephemera Michael Mendoza because such paper records are unique and irreplaceable, he says, so he pored through the boxes page by page, finding birth and death records, paintings and prints, old books. “And then I saw the letter – a documented firsthand experience of the Civil War. It was written in 1925, typed on 8½-by-14-inch paper,” Mendoza says. “Reading it, I got a real good sense of who (the writer) was.” Charles Wesley Rickard was 64 when he wrote the letter to his daughter, Alice, who had asked him to write about his war experience. He was a 15-year-old Iowa farm boy, he wrote, when “a great desire came over me to go to the war. My parents were loathe to give their consent, and so I made life miserable for them until they finally gave in.” In 1862, he enlisted as a Union fifer because he was too young to serve as a private. “I had never seen a fife before,” Rickard wrote. “But I

could use a rifle, and I was bound to go as something.” When the fighting began, he was in the thick of it. Three years later and all of 18 years old, he remembers noting how very young the new replacement troops looked. Mendoza kept Rickard’s letter and sold off some of the memorabilia. “I knew the value was more in presenting it as a historical fiction novel,” he says. Finding inspiration for a novel may not equate to striking it rich for everyone, but people willing to invest time in sorting through old family papers stand to profit, Mendoza says. “Many things are valuable on their own, like first editions of classic books,” he says. “But don’t forget the family records. Even if you’re not into genealogy, you should save those, because once you throw them away, they’re lost to the next generation.” Mendoza offers these tips for dealing with old paperwork: • Don’t throw it away simply because it’s damaged. Mendoza found a first-edition copy of “Gone with the Wind” that was so waterlogged, it was destroyed. “I sold it for $80,” he says, “and that was cheap.”

• Put together items on the same topic to improve chances of selling to collectors. Collectors like to buy in lots, Mendoza notes. They’d rather have a whole bunch of things than just one. Among Alice Bowersock’s belongings, Mendoza found photographs and documents from her father’s time helping to build the Panama Canal. Mendoza pulled all the canal material together and sold it to a collector. • Store papers in an open zipper bag in a dry place. If the paper is very valuable, invest in bags designed for that purpose. Otherwise, zipper baggies from the grocery store do fine. Don’t seal them, though, because if there’s no air circulation, the paper might stick to the plastic. • Digitize everything. Scanning your documents and photographs allows you to study them without damaging them. For the record – Mendoza is still going through Alice Bowersock’s boxes. n Michael Mendoza holds a master’s degree in American history and is an adjunct instructor for Central Texas College. He lives in Santee, Calif., and plans a sequel to “Glorious Reality of War.”

“Many things are valuable on their own, like first editions of classic books. But don’t forget the family records. Even if you’re not into genealogy, you should save those, because once you throw them away, they’re lost to the next — Michael Mendoza generation.”

SPCA Featured Pet

Avril Is So Uncomplicated

crossword on

ne cold winter day this adorable four-month-old Chihuahua mix tiptoed out of the bushes and crawled into the arms of a woman waiting at a bus stop for her son. As they began the short trek home, the little black dog followed them to their doorstep, begging not to be left behind. They kept her overnight and brought her to an overcrowded shelter the next day. Little Avril waited for her owners to come get her but day after day … but no one came. Now she patiently yet eagerly waits at the Santa Cruz SPCA for something very simple and uncomplicated…a new home. Avril is as sweet as sweet comes. She provides excellent snuggles and kisses and seems to thoroughly enjoy everyone she meets. Her tail wags at the sight of a person and she is very responsive to voice. Avril is about eight pounds and although she is young, she is not super high energy and would do fine in a smaller house with a few walks a day. She would also do great as a companion to another dog but could be the only dog as well. Avril is the type of dog that could probably fit into most any loving home whether there are kids, cats, or other dogs. She simply wants someone to love and care for her. In return, she will give back her heart, her love, her kisses and her snuggles. If Avril sounds like a good fit for you, come and see how uncomplicated this girl really is! Our adoption package for dogs and cats includes spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchipping, an ID tag, collar, a free health exam with a licensed Veterinarian, one month’s free health insurance, discounted crate purchase and other animal care materials. If you would like to help animals like Avril and her orphaned friends, please consider donating to the Santa Cruz SPCA. The Santa Cruz SPCA is a 501c3 charitable organization and receives no government funding, relying solely on public donations to run its many programs that benefit the animals and people of our community. For more information call the Santa Cruz SPCA at 465-5000, or visit www.santacruzspca.org. The SPCA is located at 2685 Chanticleer Avenue in Santa Cruz, CA 95065 and is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 p.m. n

CommunityNews

IRS Free File: Do Your Federal Taxes for Free WASHINGTON — More than 33 million returns have been filed through IRS Free File since its debut ten years ago. Everyone can use Free File using either the brand-name software offered by IRS’ commercial partners or the online fillable forms. Individuals or families with 2011 adjusted gross incomes of $57,000 or less can use Free File software. Free File Fillable Forms, the electronic version of IRS paper forms, has no income restrictions. “Free File can save you time and money. You can prepare and e-file your tax return at no charge. And, the software helps you find the tax breaks you are due,” said Diane Fox, director, Free File program. “Free File helps make taxes less taxing.” Free File software is a product of a public-private partnership between the IRS and the Free File Alliance, LLC. The Alliance is a consortium of approximately 20 tax software providers who make versions of their free-file products available exclusively at www.irs.gov/freefile. All Free File members must meet certain security requirements and use the latest in encryption technology to protect taxpayers’ information. Seventy percent of taxpayers – 100 million people - are eligible for Free File software. It’s perfect for first-time filers, families looking to save money or older Americans adept at using the Internet. People with an adjusted gross income of $57,000 or less are eligible for at least one software product. Each of the Free File software providers sets their own eligibility requirements, usually based on qualifiers such as income, state residency, age or military status. The easiest way to locate a software provider is to use the online “get help” tool at www.irs.gov/freefile that, with a little of a taxpayer’s information such as income, age and state residency, can identify matching free-file products. Or, taxpayers can review all providers and their offers. Some software providers also offer state income tax preparation free or for a fee.

Also, the IRS is working with select volunteer tax sites such as Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly. There are 200 locations nationwide that have set up Free File kiosks where taxpayers can use computers to prepare their own returns with Free File. For taxpayers whose incomes are more than $57,000, there’s Free File Fillable Forms, available only at the IRS website. This program is best for taxpayers experienced in preparing their own federal tax returns. For people who prefer doing their taxes the old fashioned way – by paper – this is an electronic alternative. Free File Fillable Forms performs some math calculations and provides links to some IRS publications. It does not use the familiar question-and-answer format used by software. Taxpayers can e-file the forms free. It also does not support state income tax returns. Taxpayers must access the free-file products through IRS.gov or authorized kiosks to avoid any charges for preparing or e-filing a federal tax return. Once taxpayers have selected a Free File software product, they will be directed away from IRS.gov to the partner’s site to prepare and e-file their returns. The IRS does not retain any personal information from the taxpayers. The IRS also encourages businesses, state and local governments, charities and churches to inform their employees, clients and customers about Free File. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2012 / 31