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SV Schools To Stay Closed
Public schools in Scotts Valley will join public schools statewide to remain closed through the end of the school year to slow the spread of COVID-19, according to Tanya Krause, Scotts Valley Unified School District superintendent. Full Story page 5
Hubert Cross: A Life Cut Short By Jondi Gumz Hubert Cross found his soulmate and got a job he loved in Scotts Valley and a place to live so close he could walk home to eat lunch with his wife and his two young children. After growing up in poverty, he earned a degree in computer engineering, taught himself to play the
guitar, traveled to a number of countries and learned multiple languages. He had started his career in Nicaragua, where his family still lives, and followed political events, sharing long conversations with his wife and friends. ... continues on page 4
CARES Act Speeds Up Small Business Loans
A faster loan will soon be available from U.S. Small Business Administration under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act signed into law March 27. Full Story page 6
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No. 4
Volume 23
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21
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Table of Contents
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Cover Hubert Cross: A Life Cut Short, By Jondi Gumz 5
Community News SV Schools to Close Through June: Help is Close By: Drive-Thru Food, Alliance for Health, Grey Bears, and More, By Jondi Gumz 6 CARES Act Speeds Up Small Business Loans, By Jondi Gumz • Homicide on Graham Hill Road 9 Student Loan Payments Suspended, By Jondi Gumz • Online Census is Counting On You • County: Donate Masks, Goggles, Wipes 10 New COVID-19 Care Site Needs Staff, By Jondi Gumz • Spring into Reading Challenge 17 What Is Essential?: Healthcare Volunteers, Grocery Store Workers Yes; Family Visits, Hotel Construction No Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Newsletter • Pages 11-14 11 City of Scotts Valley’s Response to Coronavirus • Open Letter
from the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Danny Reber • Calendar of Upcoming Community Events 12 Santa Cruz Farmers’ Markets Remain Open: Westside, Downtown & Live-Oak Locations Only 13 VCU Kicks Off 2020 Bucks For Hunger Drive 14 Congratulations to Heather McTavish of Year Round Tax Service on their Grand Re-opening!
Monthly Horoscope • Page 18 – Your November Horoscope Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 20, 21
Featured Columnists 15 Believe That Better Times Lie Ahead, By Randy Johnson, Mayor of Scotts Valley 21 Learning In a Time of Crisis: A Family-Owned Business Responds, By Ryan Colligan 22 Governor’s Shelter In Place Order Is Open-Ended, By Bruce McPherson, Fifth District Supervisor
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COVER STORY publisher
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Times Publishing Group, Inc. 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 The Times Publishing Group, Inc., publishers of the Aptos Times, a bi-monthly publication, the Capitola Times and Scotts Valley Times, each printed monthly, Coastal Weddings Magazine, Coastal Home and Garden Magazine, Aptos’ Fourth of July Parade Official Program Guide and Capitola’s Begonia Festival Official Program Guide, is owned by Patrice Edwards. Entire contents ©2020. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission
“Hubert Cross” from page 1 “He was living the American dream,” said his sister Rachel. That dream was shattered March 21 when he was fatally stabbed while coming to the aid of a friend. He was 35. Asked what happened, Rachel said she did not want to jeopardize the investigation. Santa Cruz County sheriff’s office arrested Leif Ames, a co-worker of Hubert at Universal Audio, for murder; he is being held on $750,000 bail. He was in front of the home in Live Oak where Hubert succumbed to multiple stab wounds despite life-saving measures by deputies. When a family needs help, people often turn to GoFundMe.com. For Hubert, 300 people have given a total of $47,000 in two separate campaigns to support his widow Otilia and their children Emma 5, and Hubert Jr., 1. “I didn’t know he had such a network of friends,” said Rachel, who called the Times from Nicaragua where she lives. She said their parents had left Nicaragua in the ‘70s, political refugees who came to San Jose where she and Hubert were born. Their father is a computer programmer, and Hubert is the one who got the IT gene. At 20, he moved back to Nicaragua. “He worked for my father’s company and he ended up head of the IT department,” Rachel said. Plan B hen the university didn’t have the major he wanted, he returned to the U.S. He traveled back and forth, and visited Singapore, Japan, Taiwan, Norway, Germany and France. He learned Spanish and English, Mandarin and German. When he met his wife-to-be, he was ready to be a family man. They married
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PHONE: (831) 688-7549 FAX: (831) 688-7551 GENERAL E-MAIL: info@cyber-times.com Patrice Edwards: patrice@cyber-times.com Publisher’s Assistant: assistant@cyber-times.com Editor: info@cyber-times.com Calendar Listings: www.tpgonlinedaily.com Graphics Department: graphics@cyber-times.com Billing Inquiries: cathe@cyber-times.com Classified Sales: sales@cyber-times.com Production: production@cyber-times.com CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE AT: www.tpgonlinedaily.com mission statement We at the Times Publishing Group, Inc. are dedicated to providing a voice for the individuals and organizations in our community while highlighting the outstanding accomplishments of our local businesses. We seek to promote healthy family values through our coverage of youth activities, school news, senior events, community groups and entertainment 4 / April 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
Hubert Cross with his wife, Otilia
10 years ago, and were living happily in Managua, Nicaragua, with daughter Emma when the political turmoil began. Otilia was pregnant, and masked gunmen patrolled the streets in pickup trucks, so they left, renting an AirBnB for a couple months in Costa Rica while Otilia gave birth to Hubert Jr. “My brother always had a plan B,” Rachel said. When returning to Nicaragua was not an option, they returned to the U.S. and moved to Scotts Valley. “It’s the most beautiful place to raise children,” Rachel said. “Pine trees everywhere.” She is in shock that her only brother is gone. “It has destroyed my family,” she said. “My niece and nephew will grow up without their father. My brother will not know his children.” He and his wife had escaped the civil war and come to America to build a new life, and now that life was over. Best Friend he first GoFundMe drive for Hubert’s family was set up by Marius-Paul Dumitrean, 37, his friend since middle school. He’s a UC Santa Cruz computer science graduate, a tech entrepreneur and father of a 2-and-1/2 year old.
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So far, more than 170 people have given $31,000. The second GoFundMe drive was set up by Irina Gaysina, a friend of Otilia’s. More than 130 people have given $16,000. Dumitrean can’t believe his best friend is gone. He was with Otilia when she got the news. He immigrated at age 10 to San Jose with his family from Eastern Europe. His younger brother was Hubert’s best friend at first but as they grew up, Dumitrean spent more time with Hubert. “We always connected,” he said. “We worked together, we played together.” They were roommates, then business partners who shared a passion for freedom and justice. They shared their love of music, classic rock, Pink Floyd, Beatles. Dumitrean called the Times while driving across country. He’s relocating to the North Carolina “Research Triangle” to work in tech. He had hoped Hubert would move there, too. “I wish we had gotten together,” he said. The name Hubert means “bright heart.” n ••• Cover Photo: Hubert Cross with his daughter Emma, 5, and son Hubert Jr., 1.
COMMUNITY NEWS
SV Schools to Close Through June
Help is Close By: Drive-Thru Food, Alliance for Health, Grey Bears, and More
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By Jondi Gumz
ublic schools in Scotts Valley will join public schools statewide to remain closed through the end of the school year to slow the spread of COVID-19, according to Tanya Krause, Scotts Valley Unified School District superintendent. An April 1 letter to families from all of the school superintendents in Santa Cruz County explained, “While we understand this further extension of school closures poses serious hardship to many families in Santa Cruz County, it is the most effective way to slow the transmission of this pandemic by continuing to implement social distancing practices.” Local school superintendents are in communication with universities to develop protocols for high school seniors for grades, transcripts, scholarships, college applications and commencement celebrations. The policies will be shared “over the next several weeks,” the letter said. All public schools in the county have been closed since March 16 for “this unprecedented crisis.” As of April 1, Santa Cruz County has 54 cases and one death, California 8,155 cases and 171 deaths, the U.S., 213,000 cases and 4,700 deaths, and worldwide 932,000 cases, 426,000 deaths and 193,000 recovered. “I am pleased with the hard work the teachers, support staff, and administration were able to quickly accomplish in one week in order to implement online learning,” Krause said. “We are working to ensure that teachers and families have the materials they need and we are answering questions that arise.” Krause thanked community members for their support. Students work with their teachers via remote learning activities, observing spring break April 6–10. School and district websites offer support with technology, counseling web pages, and educational resources and ideas. The Scott Valley district provides breakfast and lunch meals to school-age students Monday through Friday except for spring break. Drive-through pickup is at Scotts Valley High School, in the circle in front of the gym, between 10 a.m. and noon. Parents are asked to complete request forms in advance so meals can be planned. The County Office of Education offers
wellness resources for stressed parents at sccoe.link/wellness offers resources. More resources are at: sccoe.link/community_ resources and sites.google.com/pvusd.net/ pvusdparentideas/home Drive-Thru Food econd Harvest Food Bank will offer its next “drive-through” community food distribution 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 3 at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds in Watsonville. Santa Cruz County residents can get a bag of pantry items and a bag of produce, which is plenty for a family. Second Harvest asks anyone who gotten food from Second Harvest this week to let others get their share. Carpooling is encouraged; up to three families per car can pick up food with a representative present and appropriate identifying materials. Community members are asked to not arrive before 9 a.m. To learn more, call the Food Hotline at (831) 662-0991 or visit www.thefoodbank.org. Temple Beth El emple Beth El in Aptos, which serves about 540 families, suspended all services, classes and meetings due to the “shelter in place” order. But people stay connected. Rabbi Paula Marcus leads the Rock Shabbat service online, and Temple staff plan to offer an innovative online Seder experience to commemorate Passover, which begins April 8 and concludes April 16. The Santa Cruz Jewish Film Festival is postponed; a new date has not been announced. Alliance for Health entral California Alliance for Health, headquartered in Scotts Valley, has closed the public areas and service counters at all offices to reduce exposure to the coronavirus COVID-19. Health plan members who need help can call 800-700-3874.
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any small business owners Brandon Napoli, director of the in Santa Cruz County closed Santa Cruz Small Business Development and restaurants have laid off Center, which offers free advice to business employees because of “shelter in place” owners, is hearing the same question from orders to slow the spread of the contagious retail store owners, massage therapists and coronavirus COVID-19. salon owners: How much of the loan might A faster loan will soon be available from be forgiven? U.S. Small Business Administration under The standard disaster loan does not the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic offer loan forgiveness. Security Act signed into law March 27. Disaster Loan Process CARES Act loans at 4 percent interest he SBDC, based at Cabrillo College, put for businesses with up to 500 employees, on a free webinar March 19 with SBA are part of the Paycheck Protection Program officials explaining how to apply online and can be used for for the standard payroll, mortgage economic injury payments, rent, disaster loan and to utilities and expect a response insurance. in two to three The loan has weeks. a formula: The The webinar average monthly was fully subpayroll for the scribed at 88 past 12 months people, some of times 2.5, with the whom had already maximum amount closed their doors of $10 million. and others who had Assuming you laid off employees. keep the same At least 92 more level of workforce, got on the wait list this loan will be and got access to a forgiven, potenreplay. tially up to 100 Tallula Preston David Purgason and Tallula Preston, founders percent. and David Purof Fruition Brewing, applied for a disaster loan. The form asks gason, owners of for the adjusted gross income on the 2019 the startup Fruition Brewing in Watsontax return. Once the rules are posted, the ville, spent a half a day March 18 to apply loan approval time is expected to be 1-3 online and got an email saying “received— days. in review.”
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anta Cruz County deputies are investigating the death of Kimberly Smith, 55, of Santa Cruz, as a homicide. On March 31, at about 11:30 a.m., deputies responded to a report of an unconscious female at a home in the 800 block of Graham Hill Road in unincorporated Santa Cruz. Once
inside, they found a 55-year-old woman dead. The woman has been identified as Kimberly Smith, according to the Sheriff’s Office. Detectives are actively looking for the suspect(s) and motive in this case. Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to call (831)454-7635. n
COMMUNITY NEWS The maximum loan size is $2 million. The interest rate is 3.75 percent for forprofit businesses and 2.75 percent for nonprofits to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid because of the COVID-19 outbreak. The deadline to apply is Dec. 16. Heather Luzzi, director of the Sacramento SBA, which oversees 22 counties, said hundreds of employees had been brought on to deal with the “surge” of applications and she expected “a strain on resources.” The SBA loan application process has been used many times after a disaster, whether drought, flood, or fire. But it hasn’t been used for an economic disaster that is ongoing, for which there is no end in sight. The online forms require the employer identification number and ask questions that may require a check of the Secretary of State’s website or a consult with an attorney or accountant. If the business owner misinterprets what the SBA wants, then the application will be rejected, and the process must start over. Estimate Losses ne question is the amount of the economic loss, hard to answer since it’s unknown when closed businesses might reopen.
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SBDC advisor Sunita Maharaj recommended putting down three months of operating income and with an “e” after the number to denote “estimate.” Other questions ask about debt, liabilities and salaries. Ancillary forms are required, such as Form 413, a personal financial statement of the business owner, and Form 4506-T, authorizing the SBA to order a transcript of the tax return. A credit report will be reviewed; there is no minimum credit score. The SBA will be more lenient with people who have been unable to repay debt but a default on a federal loan means no federal disaster loan. Loans over $25,000 require collateral. Almost all businesses will likely be considered, according to SBDC advisor John Connelly. Small business owners were advised to call the local SBDC to get free assistance walking through the form to fill it out correctly.
Luzzi said business owners must use their local SBDC office. Employees at those offices are working but callers sometimes get voice mail. Sole proprietors are eligible. Airbnb rentals with past income and Lyft and Uber drivers may be eligible. Expansion of an existing business to a new location might qualify but cannabis businesses are not eligible. The application process is first in,
first out. Luzzi suggested owners get their application in as soon as possible. There is no prioritizing by the number of years in business, or for businesses forced to close by the state. Luzzi said nonprofits are not eligible for personalized assistance from an SBDC advisor, whose goal is to help for-profit businesses, but they can get help from an SBA staffer. n ••• Applicants may apply online at https:// disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. For informaiton, call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@ sba.gov. To reach the Small Business Development Center at Cabrillo College, call 831-479-6136 or go to www.santacruzsbdc. org.
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / April 2020 / 7
COMMUNITY NEWS “Help” from page 5 “During this public health crisis, the Alliance remains steadfastly committed to ensuring the more than 320,000 members in its service area continue to have access to needed health care services,” said Stephanie Sonnenshine, chief executive officer of the nonprofit managed health care plan for Medi-Cal in Santa Cruz, Monterey and Merced counties. The Alliance asks members to call their doctor if they have been in contact with someone known to have COVID-19; or are experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fever and cough. If they can’t reach their doctor, they can call the Alliance’s Nurse Advice Line, 844971-8907, and a registered nurse will help them decide what to do. The advice line is
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free to members and open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Member guidance is at https://www. ccah-alliance.org/pdfs/MEM_COVID_ member-talking-points-F-ENG.pdf Seniors Council lay Kempf, executive director of the countywide Seniors Council, said volunteers are definitely needed, suggesting Grey Bears, the Santa Cruz County Volunteer Center, and Meals on Wheels of Santa Cruz County. All meal sites in Santa Cruz County for seniors, including the Scotts Valley Senior Center, are closed due to the new social distancing rules to slow spread of the coronavirus COVID-19. Kempf said Meals on Wheels, a part of the nonprofit Community Bridges, is working to make sure people wanting a home-delivered meal in lieu of the hot lunch at a center, get one but he noted an increase in loneliness for those who enjoyed the communal sites. He is reviewing the results of a new senior needs assessment and expects to issue a report soon. Staff at the Ombudsman/Advocacy Inc. in Scotts Valley are working remotely, taking calls about allegations of abuse of elders in long-term care facilities with some experienced ombudsmen entering facilities in protective gear to meet with residents. The Area Agency on Aging reduced hours for employees and staff at Del Mar Caregiver Resource Center are working from home, using phone and videoconferencing. Grey Bears rey Bears, a countywide nonprofit at 2710 Chanticleer Ave., Santa Cruz, closed its thrift store but recycling service is open — and so does its “brown bag” delivery of fresh produce and groceries to 3,800 people weekly. “What we need now are financial donations, donations of cleaning supplies and sanitizers (we’re doing OK right now but can always use more) and volunteers (under age 65, healthy, non-exposure to anyone with COVID-19),” said Tim Brattan, Grey Bears’ executive director. “It’s really an absolute shame that we
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Student Loan Payments Suspended
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By Jondi Gumz
ayments on federally held student loans will be suspended for 60 days with no interest penalty because of the coronavirus outbreak that has wiped out in-person college classes for thousands of students at Cabrillo College, UC Santa Cruz, CSU Monterey Bay and tens of millions of borrowers around the nation. The U.S. Department of Education announced the policy on March 20 and the 60-day suspension started March 13. “These are anxious times, particularly for students and families whose educations, careers, and lives have been disrupted,” said Betsy DeVos, US Secretary of Education. “Right now, everyone should be focused on staying safe and healthy, not worrying about their student loan balance growing.”
DeVos also directed all of the federal student loan servicers — private companies such as Navient, Nelnet and FedLoan Servicing and nonprofits such as Granite State, CornerStone, HESC/Edfinancial, MOHELA and OSLA that handle billing — to grant an “administrative forbearance” for at least 60 days to any borrower with a federally held loan who requests one. Forbearance typically means payments are postponed but interest accrues. To request this forbearance, borrowers should contact their loan servicer online or by phone. The federal policy does not affect private loans from lenders such as Sallie Mae, Discover or Ascent.
Online Census is Counting On You
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he 2020 online census questionnaire is now live, and ready for Santa Cruz County residents to be counted. This is the first census in history to rely heavily on online responses, and counting everyone is vitally important for Santa Cruz County. With April 1, Census Day, approaching, community members are encouraged to participate. The Census is just nine simple questions and takes just a few minutes to complete. Each person counted means thousands of dollars in local funding over the next 10 years. The Census can be filled out online at www.my2020census.gov, or through Questionnaire Assistance Kiosks located at County facilities. All information is secure and strictly confidential under federal law. In addition, everyone is encouraged to use the Census ID mailed to them from the U.S. Census Bureau to ensure an accurate count. When completing the Census form, it is important to include information about all
adults and children (including babies) living or located at each address. All residents, regardless of age, gender, income, economic or housing status, ethnicity, nationality or immigration status can fill out the Census. Everyone counts! The Census guides more than $675 billion in annual funding nationwide and supports critical local services such as job training, affordable housing, emergency preparedness, school funding, roads, hospitals and much more. In addition, the Census will also determine the number of seats each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives and local political representation at all levels of government. n A link to the list of Questionnaire Assistance Kiosk locations at County facilities is available at www.santacruzcountycounts.us. Call ahead to ensure availability. Additional assistance is available toll-free at (844) 330-2020. For information, visit www.santacruzcountycounts.us or www.facebook. com/SantaCruzCountyCounts.
County: Donate Masks, Goggles, Wipes
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o help protect the health and safety of local health care workers, the County of Santa Cruz has established an online system for donating personal protective equipment. Supplies sought include: • Eye protection, like goggles, face shields • Antibacterial and disinfecting wipes, typically alcohol or bleach based (unopened). NO baby wipes. • N-95 and surgical masks (in unopened containers/boxes) • Medical gowns: Disposable gowns, as well as cloth surgical and hospital gowns in good condition
Such equipment is in high demand nationally as the health care infrastructure prepares for a surge in COVID-19 patients. Any donations will be prioritized and distributed according to medical need within Santa Cruz County., according to the county announcement. n ••• If you can help, visit www.santacruzhealth. org/ppedonate, and fill out a brief online form. For local information on COVID-19, see www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus, call 211 or text “COVID19” to 211211. Residents may call (831) 454-4242 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / April 2020 / 9
COMMUNITY NEWS
New COVID-19 Care Site Needs Staff
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By Jondi Gumz
impkins Family Swim Center in Live Oak will be repurposed as an alternate care site for people with the highly contagious coronavirus COVID-19 and paid volunteers are needed to staff it, Mimi Hall, director of Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency said Tuesday night in a telephone town hall with Supervisor Zach Friend and his constituents. She expects to put 40 beds at the county facility, which has a kitchen, bathrooms, plenty of parking and a circular drive for easy ambulance access. To help, sign up at healthcorps.ca.gov or call 831-454-4242. This is part of Gov. Newsom’s effort to recruit retired doctors and nurses and medical school and nursing school students near graduation to help. “Everyone over 60 should shelter in place,” Hall said. “We have given permission to doctors over 60 to stay home and they have chosen to come to work.” So far, 350 people have been tested, with 49 positive, Hall said. Asked how many are hospitalized, she said “two or three,” which includes the county’s first resident to succumb to COVID-19 on March 28. Since the first case March 6, the county made caseload projections. “Early modeling showed us with a lot more cases,” Hall said. “I thought we’d need the alternate site by now.” Neighboring Santa Clara County, home to many tech companies with factories in China, reports more cases, 956, with 60+ new cases a day, and 32 deaths, mostly men. One surprise there is people either are mildly hill or they’re in the intensive care unit, very few “in the middle ground,” Hall said. Dominican Hospital’s vacant rehab center on Frederick Street in Santa Cruz was considered, she said, but two other “ideal” sites have been identified, not naming them. More N-95 medical masks are needed, she said, because “tens of thousands of masks (from various stockpiles) are not usable.” The
10 / April 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
problem: Brittle elastics to secure Hall said the March 9 social the mask have broken. Workers at distancing guidelines appear Santa Cruz Bicycles repaired some to work — the rule for people for use. to stay six feet away from non“Home-made masks are OK family members. Children are for everyday people,” she said. not seen at Callaghan Park in “We’re trying to obtain medicalWatsonville, according to resident grade masks for health care Amy Newell, but a constituent workers.” had concerns about compliance Mimi Hall Also needed: Ventilators, hosat McGregor skateboard park in pital gowns, face shields and booties. Capitola and the stairs at Cliff Beach in “We are not going to ventilate or oxy- Pleasure Point. Trails at Pogonip Park are genate our way out of this problem,” Hall of concern, too. said. Two sheriff’s deputies are working 24/7 In a week, more testing will be possible. on compliance, focusing on gatherings at Next week, Dominican Hospital expects to rental homes. get a machine that provides testing results in The city of Santa Cruz has closed beach 15 minutes, she said. County Health Services, parking lots, but the county has not. which has been sending test specimens to a “Exercise for all of us is very important stat lab in Santa Clara County, has ordered in a very stressful time,” said Molly Ording the same machine. of Capitola. A task force of 26 specialists repreHall agreed, “It helps people stay calm.” senting hospitals and community clinics is To a constituent in Seacliff asking if she meeting to discuss how to house people who could drive to Wilder Ranch State Park, Hall are homeless using federal FEMA funding. said, “If you’re keeping your distance, that’s Asked if patients might be treated with great.” n Chinese herbs, which were mandated in ••• China, or intravenous Vitamin C, reported Supervisor Zach Friend will host a teleto save 50 lives at a Shanghai hospital, Hall town hall 6-7 p.m. April 7 with Dr. Larry said, “our health care providers are going DeGhetaldi, Sutter/PAMF Santa Cruz CEO, with what’s proven. They don’t want to test to discuss COVID-19, his insights from the hypotheses.” medical side and to take questions from the comA clinical trial of the HIV anti-viral munity. Call 831-452-2222 and use Meeting lopinavir-ritonavir involving 199 patients ID 145384# in China found no benefit but the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has authorized use of the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine despite the lack of clinical trials, citing use in other countries. anta Cruz Public Libraries is The county on March 23 urged travelers hosting a virtual reading program to stay home, especially college students called “Spring into Reading.” Parwho might be tempted to gather on Santa ticipants will track Cruz beaches. how many minutes Vacationers are not allowed to use a day they read and vacation rental homes, Friend said, noting complete activities some are housing health care workers who to be entered in a fear their exposure to COVID-19 could pass raffle. Winners get it on family members. a gift card to a local merchant. Starting April 1, participants can record their reading online with the Beanstack platform at: www.santacruzpl.beanstack.org. Participants must create an account (or login with their account from our Summer Reading Program from last year) and sign up to participate in the youth or adult version. The program ends April 30.
Spring into Reading Challenge
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Santa Cruz County Extends Shelter-In-Place Orders Thru May 3
City of Scotts Valley’s Response to Coronavirus
C
ity Council declared a Local or email, rather than visiting in Health Emergency in the person. City of Scotts Valley by The City is operating with the adopting Resolution No. 1974. The Declaration of a Local Emergency following essential functions: • Police Dispatch and Patrol Serenables the City to obtain necessary resources to effectively respond to vices will operate as normal. The COVID-19, seek and use mutual Police have special protocols in aid and potentially obtain reimplace to protect themselves and others such as the use of perbursement. The Declaration does not mean that Scotts Valley has an sonal protective equipment. extraordinary health concern. • Wastewater Treatment Facility The City of Scotts Valley will operate as normal changed operations to meet the • Essential City Maintenance crew requirements of the Shelter-in-Place will be on duty for response Order. By ceasing non-essential • Outdoor parks, open space, activities, we are meeting our duty playground and skate/dog to slow the spread of the virus. parks will be open as normal, The City has vigorous hygiene with requirements for social and personal health guidelines in distancing (6 feet) and frequent place for City employees and public handwashing. The City is work sites. The community is increasing its cleaning schedule encouraged to use alternate means for public bathrooms and playof contacting City Hall, by phone ground equipment.
• Closure of all public counters (City Hall, Police Department, Planning and Building, Public Works and Recreation) with limited essential services provided by appointment only. • Closure of the Senior Center • Closure of the Community Center • Postponement of all event and facility rentals • Postponing all City Commission/Committee meetings • Providing alternative means of participation at City Council meetings. Members of the public are encouraged to view the meeting on Community TV or online (www. communityTV.org) and email comments to cityhall@scotts valley.org.
Scotts Valley City Council approved a temporary moratorium — Urgency Ordinance No. 194 on March 24 will prohibit evictions of commercial and residential tenants due to non-payment of rent when the inability to pay rent is caused by income or business losses, or substantial medical expenses, related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The moratorium was passed to protect safety, welfare and public health by reducing further economic destabilization, loss of housing, businesses and jobs opportunities in Scotts Valley from COVID-19. The City’s Urgency Ordinance No. 194, which established the moratorium, will run through May 31, 2020.
Open Letter from the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Executive Director
D
Dear Business Community, uring these difficult times, we’d like to reach out to ALL Scotts Valley businesses to let you now that we are here for you and we are a resource and an ally for you. If you are an existing Chamber member, please note that we have suspended all membership billing until further notice. If you received an email invoice prematurely or by mistake, please disregard. If you are not a Chamber member, it doesn’t matter. In fact, during
this crisis, we are going to consider dinating our efforts and sharing EVERY Scotts Valley business a the same information. If you haven’t done so already, Chamber member. We are blessed to live a in a we highly recommend that you bookmark the Chamber very special community, of Commerce’s new and I believe that one of webpage, — Coronavirus our greatest strengths is Updates and Resources, that we all come together which is updated daily. when times are tough. Here you can access We have been in conthe City of Scotts Valley’s stant communications Essential Open Business with our City Manager, List as well as current press Council members, and Danny Reber releases from City, County, Santa Cruz County officials to ensure that we are coor- State and Federal governments on
Support Local Businesses — Stay Well
news and recently passed ordinances and other legislation related to the COVID-19 crisis. In addition, small business owners can access the links to the SBA Disaster Loan Program, SBA required forms and a link to the streamlined process to apply. Other opportunities for free assistance and guidance from the Small Business Development Center and the Santa Cruz County Economic Development Department are also listed. “Letter” page 12
Calendar of Upcoming Community Events CANCELED / POSTPONED
Thursday April 23
All Chambers Mega Mixer — Santa Cruz & Santa Clara Counties Felton
CANCELED / POSTPONED
Wednesday May 6
Multi-Chamber Ribbon Cutting – 75th Anniversary Soquel
CANCELED / POSTPONED
Thursday May 28
Anniversary Red Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Scotts Valley
Thursday June 11
Business Networking Mixer 5:30-7:00pm
KISS Cafe 915 Disc Drive, Scotts Valley
Thursday June 25
Joint Networking Mixer with Boulder Creek Business Association & SLV Chamber 5:30-7:00pm Boulder Creek Golf & County Club 16901 Big Basin Hwy, Boulder Creek
Saturday August 15 Sunday August 16
Scotts Valley Art Wine & Beer Festival Sky Park 361 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley CA 95066
Call the Chamber Today or Visit www.scottsvalleychamber.com
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / April 2020 / 11
Scotts Valley Chamber News
Santa Cruz Farmers’ Markets Remain Open
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Westside, Downtown & Live-Oak Locations Only
s Santa Cruz County and the State of California move into the third week of the Shelter in Place Ordinance we continue to work hard, creatively and in an educated manner to keep our markets safe, functioning and available to you. The COVID-19 pandemic is pushing all of us to our edges and we are responding with increased staffing and significant systems change so that local residents can access the fresh, healthy food needed for general wellness and healthy immune systems. We are also focused on keeping small, regional farms viable. Farmers are a scarce resource in modern times and we cannot bear to lose them under the weight of this economic hardship. Certified farmers’ markets are considered essential food outlets and fall under the same category as grocery stores in the Shelter in Place order instated by Santa Cruz County on March 17th. Westside, Saturday 9a–1p address: Mission St. Ext. and Western Dr. Eastside, Live Oak, Sunday 9a-1p 15th Avenue & Eastcliff Dr Downtown, Wednesday, 1p-5p Cedar St & Lincoln Street We ask for your support as we continue to implement and enforce the following changes: • All vendors are to use gloves and hand washing stations. • All sampling of fruits, vegetables and other foods is suspended. • No seating or tables are offered. • No bike valet offered.
• Music area and kids zone are suspended. • Additional hand washing stations are provided at all markets. • Limiting interaction between customers and produce to minimize cross contamination. • Mandated social distancing: • Spacing out vendor stands. • Marking official entrances and exits for each vendor stand. • Establishing customer ques/
12 / April 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
lines that visually illustrate six feet of distance between customers.
often and ALWAYS before touching your face.
We ask that customers: • Please stay home if you aren’t feeling well. • Avoid touching your face, nose and mouth (especially after handling money). • Practice social distancing of six feet from any other person in the market space - respect the infrastructure we have created. • Only touch what you purchase. • Wash your hands often and for a minimum of 20 seconds. Wash “Letter” from page 11 Because of the “Shelter in Place” ordinance set forth by the County, our Chamber office will be closed to the public until further notice. However, we are working remotely to meet your needs. If you need assistance with anything, have questions or need a certificate of origin, please feel free to contact me directly at dreber@scottsvalleychamber. com. Also please note that all Chamber events, mixers, and ribbon cuttings have
been canceled or postponed through at least June for now. It is worth stating that we are hopeful that we will still be able to hold the Art Wine & Beer Festival in August, but we will of course monitor the situation as we go. We truly are all in this together and together we WILL get through this. For now, we want to wish all of you well and please stay safe and healthy! Sincerely, Danny Reber Executive Director Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce
Scotts Valley Chamber News
VCU Kicks Off 2020 Bucks For Hunger Drive V assistance to local qualified residents in need. Valley Churches United is a donor-supported, volunteerpowered nonprofit organization, not a church, which serves low-income households in San Lorenzo Valley, Scotts Valley and Bonny Doon. “The wonderful generosity of our local community will help us keep the food pantry and other client programs going strong, especially during this very uncertain times with COVID-19”, said Executive Director Lynn Robinson. “As we know, hunger never takes a holiday, and we don’t receive government funding. This fundraising drive is an extremely important opportunity for our amazing community to step up and give what they can. We are seeing many new clients who never thought they would be in a position to ask for help and we can help lift them back up with the help of this financial support.” Tax deductible donations may be sent to the Valley Churches United, PO Box 367, Ben Lomond, CA 95005, on Facebook or online at vcum. org, or donate in person at 9400 Highway 9, Ben Lomond, Monday through Friday from 9am until 4pm.
Cheryl D Rebottaro, AAMS®, CRPC® Financial Advisor
MKT-1952G-A
MKT-1952G-A
alley Churches United is kicking off their 30th annual spring Bucks For Hunger fundraising drive with a mailing that community residents have received recently. The year-round food pantry is looking forward to the community support that helps fill the pantry shelves and provides
221 Mount Hermon Rd Suite F Scotts Valley, CA 950664038 831-461-9311
edwardjones.com Member SIPC
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / April 2020 / 13
Scotts Valley Chamber News
Congratulations to Heather McTavish of Year Round Tax Service on their Grand Re-opening!
Dear Scotts Valley & San Lorenzo Valley Readers
We at SVPM understand the trying times when you are away from family, friends, and co-workers. We, too, are living different lives, and remain hopeful for our new future. We are thinking of you and are grateful for you. We are seeing so many people helping each other and it is inspiring! Please take good care of yourself and each other. We are here for you and look forward to connecting with you soon. Our best wishes to you, Jeanne, Gigi and Terra
DO BUSINESS WITH THE DISTRICT ONLINE Due to the COVID-19 Shelter in Place Order, our offices are closed for in-person service. • Pay your bill: svwd.org/customer-info/bill-pay-options • Track your usage with WaterSmart: svwd.org/i-meters • Start or stop service: svwd.org/ customer-info/startstop-service • Apply for rebates: svwd.org/rebates
svwd.org
Advertise in the Scotts Valley Chamber Newsletter
14 / April 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
CALL FOR SPECIAL RATES 831.688.7549
Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce 360 King’s Village Road Scotts Valley, CA 95066
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Believe That Better Times Lie Ahead
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By Randy Johnson, Mayor of Scotts Valley
t unfolded in slow motion. First stories from the Far East about some virus making the rounds and people falling ill. Not to worry. Then a couple of months later, like a sledge hammer, it hit with amazing force and peoples’ worlds came crashing down. The shock and even a little panic set in and we were left wondering about our immediate and longterm future. Things have settled down a bit. With each passing week, we absorb new data. A lot of it is disturbing, but some is reassuring. And as we place some of our fears in the back seat, we adapt and develop coping regimens to soothe our minds and face our uncertain future. If you sit at a traffic light at Granite Creek or Bean Creek, you know something isn’t right. Driving up Glenwood, you regard the high school and empty parking lots and it feels aberrant, because it is. Every city has a certain rhythm and cadence and
ours is definitely off. The “closed” signs on businesses, the absence of school kids on the sidewalks and solemnity on people’s faces make it all a bit unnerving. Makes us wonder if an almost dystopian future awaits us. But let’s pause for a minute. Below the surface there is much good happening. We can’t ignore the death that the Covid-19 virus has caused, but we can acknowledge the many acts of kindness and courage and generosity that have emerged from this hardship. All levels of government are involved and engaged in trying to soothe this misfortune. The federal government approved a stimulus package for both business and individuals. If you are a small business, the Scotts Valley Chamber has advice and roadmaps for you to access funds for your company. This past week, all the mayors in the county listened to Mimi Hall, our county health director, and Sheriff Hart on where we were and how plans are in place to
deal with contingencies that may emerge of which have been proven to lift you up in the future. (www.santacruzhealth.org/ mentally and enhance your immunity. coronavirus is a great resource for staying Yes, your immunity. informed about what is happening in the Binge watching? It’s a guilty pleasure, county) The city council approved a tem- so do it. I’m on episode 4 of Game of porary moratorium on commercial and Thrones. (White Walkers, you hate them, residential evictions for non-payment of right?) Out of nowhere, John Krasinski (The rent when COVID-19 is the Office) premiered a program cause of the financial hardship. called SGN, which stands for See ScottsValley.org for more Some Good News. Check it out. information. Most importantly, I believe the next 30 days neighbors are helping neighbors will be challenging, as the and that is so gratifying to hear. shelter-in-place rules will Mind, body, spirit: they weigh heavily on all of us. You are all important. Are you should, however, feel proud tracking the statistics of the on how you have handled this disease worldwide and here in affliction. You have followed the United States? Okay, that’s the rules for the greater good. understandable. Does the backYou have adapted and Randy Johnson and–forth between the warring managed your lives with (political) parties on the subject deserve an little complaint. You have been calm and occasional look? resilient and steadfast in believing that Perhaps, but don’t ignore the psycho- better times lie ahead. I share that view and logical and healthy benefits of things like wish you Godspeed on the next phase of exercise, humor and even meditation, all this journey. Be well. n
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / April 2020 / 15
Westwind
A MEMORY CARE COMMUNITY
Westwind Memory Care is a place where the one you love will feel safe, cared for and respected. We provide caring, compassionate and personal 24hour assistance for those with Alzheimer’s or Dementia. Providing a comforting new home where each resident’s dignity, individuality and privacy are preserved. Our new community is located at 160 Jewell Street, near the Santa Cruz Elks Lodge.
Now Taking Reservations
831-421-9100
www.WestWindmemoryCare.com RCFE License #435202516
16 / April 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
What Is Essential?
COMMUNITY NEWS
Healthcare Volunteers, Grocery Store Workers Yes; Family Visits, Hotel Construction No
T
he New Shelter in Place order from the Santa Cruz County Health Officer extends the requirement to stay home except for essential activities through May 3, and further restricts movement to slow the spread of the coronavirus COVID-19. The order, which builds on the March 16 order, halts construction of hotels, affecting at least four big projects near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which is closed, and prohibits a visit of friends or family unless it is for caregiving. People are encouraged to walk outside, and walking at beaches and parks is allowed as long as those walking maintain social distancing, staying six feet away from anyone who is not a member of your household. Gatherings at homes, beaches and parks are not allowed; 10 people at most can attend a funeral. The order prohibits retail storefronts for the general public to operate and allows restaurants to serve takeout food only. Here is the full, unabridged order put forth March 31, 2010: ••• Please read this Order carefully. Violation of or failure to comply with this Order is a misdemeanor punishable by fine, imprisonment, or both. (California Health and Safety Code § 120295, et seq.; Cal. Penal Code §§ 69, 148(a)(1)) UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF CALIFORNIA HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE SECTIONS 101040, 101085, AND 120175, THE HEALTH OFFICER OF THE COUNTY OF SANTA CRUZ (“HEALTH OFFICER”) ORDERS: 1) This Order supersedes the March 16, 2020 Order of the Health Officer directing all individuals to shelter in place (“Prior Shelter Order”). This Order clarifies, strengthens, and extends certain terms of the Prior Shelter Order to increase social distancing and reduce person-to-person contact in order to further slow transmission of Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (“COVID-19”). This Order shall become effective at 11:59 p.m. on March 31, 2020 and will continue to be in effect until 11:59 p.m. on May 3, 2020, or until it is extended, rescinded, superseded, or amended in writing by the Health Officer. All individuals, businesses and government agencies in the County of Santa Cruz (“County”) are required to follow the provisions of this Order. 2) The intent of this Order is to ensure that the maximum number of people shelter in their places of residence to the maximum extent feasible to slow the spread of COVID-19 and mitigate the impact on delivery of critical
healthcare services to those in need. All provisions of this Order must be interpreted to effectuate this intent. Failure to comply with any of the provisions of this Order constitutes an imminent threat and menace to public health, constitutes a public nuisance, and is punishable by fine, imprisonment, or both. 3) All individuals currently living within the County (including all cities within the County) are ordered to shelter at their place of residence. They may leave their residence only for Essential Activities, Essential Governmental Functions, Essential Travel, to work for Essential Businesses, or to perform Basic Operations for non-essential businesses, all as defined in Section 12. 4) When people need to leave their place of residence for the limited purposes allowed in this Order, they must strictly comply with Social Distancing Requirements as defined in Section 12.j, except as expressly provided in this Order. 5) All businesses with a facility in the County, except Essential Businesses, as defined in Section 12.f, are required to cease all activities at facilities located within the County except Minimum Basic Operations, as defined in Section 12.g. For clarity, all businesses may continue operations consisting exclusively of owners, employees, volunteers, or contractors performing activities at their own residences (i.e., working from home). All Essential Businesses are strongly encouraged to remain open. But Essential Businesses are directed to maximize the number of employees who work from home. Businesses that include an Essential Business component at their facilities alongside non-essential components must, to the extent feasible, scale down their operations to the Essential Business component only; provided, however, that mixed retail businesses that are otherwise allowed to operate under this Order may continue to stock and sell non-essential products. Essential Businesses must follow industry-specific guidance issued by the Health Officer related to COVID-19. All Essential Businesses are encouraged to prepare, post, and implement a Social Distancing Protocol at each of their facilities at which they are maintaining operations, as reflected in Appendix A. 6) All public and private gatherings of any number of people occurring outside a single household or living unit are prohibited, except for the limited purposes expressly permitted in this Order. Nothing in this Order prohibits members of a single household or living unit from engaging in Essential Travel or Essential Activities together. 7) Except for the purpose of Essential Travel, as defined below in Section 12.h, all travel is prohibited, including but not limited to, travel on foot, bicycle, scooter, motorcycle, automobile, or public transit. People may use public transit
only for purposes of performing Essential Activities or to travel to and from work to operate Essential Businesses, maintain Essential Governmental Functions, or to perform Minimum Basic Operations at non-essential businesses. Transit agencies and people riding on public transit should comply with Social Distancing Requirements, as defined in Section 12.j, to the greatest extent feasible. This Order allows travel into or out of the County to perform Essential Activities, operate Essential Businesses, maintain Essential Governmental Functions, or perform Minimum Basic Operations at nonessential businesses. 8) This Order is issued based on evidence of increasing occurrence of COVID-19 within
the County and throughout the Bay Area, scientific evidence and best practices regarding the most effective approaches to slow the transmission of communicable diseases generally and COVID-19 specifically, and evidence that the age, condition, and health of a significant portion of the population of the County places it at risk for serious health complications, including death, from COVID-19. Due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 disease in the general public, which is now a pandemic according to the World Health Organization, there is a public health emergency throughout the County.
“Shelter in Place” page 18
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Your April Horoscope Times Publishing Group, Inc. Taurus (April 21-May 21)
April begins with you in a rational state of mind when it comes to both relationships and finance. Neither has been going well for you when you let emotions take over, so taking a moment to step back and consider your options carefully will give you a new outlook. You’re still composed midmonth even as you feel the need for some extravagance, be it a fancy meal, a weekend getaway, or even a new high-performance vehicle, this is the time to treat yourself. Late in the month you’ll be looking for a quick source of income. You may not be done treating yourself, but you’re not ready to pull more from your credit yet.
Gemini (May 22-June 21)
You find your self with many directions you can take yourself early in the month. But it also means you will have to make some decisions, and preparing for the future isn’t always your strong suit. You’re not filtering what’s on your mind mid-month: if you think it, it’s coming out of your mouth. Not always the best way to conduct yourself, and even if you believe in your opinions, don’t be surprised if some reactions are not to your liking. Late in April you’re in more of a conciliatory mood, which could open you up to new relationships. Sometimes understanding and compassion work for you.
Cancer (June 22-July 22)
You’re having some success working through problems with friends, colleagues or family early in the month. It’s a nice feeling when you get closer to those in your circle. You’re feeling a need to resist indulging in excess mid-April. Usually you know your limits, and you still do, but your instincts are pushing you to pass them, even though you feel you should know better. Late in the month you’re feeling much more sure about life, and maybe it’s time to start working on goals you hope to make in the future: financial, relationships, or both.
Leo (July 23-Aug. 23)
You feel the desire to expand your horizons early in April, even as your conscience keeps you from going too far. You can still have some new fun without overextending yourself. Your desire to stay in control mid-month is fairly strong, but there are some strong opponents in your way. A tough battle may be the only way to stay on top. Later in the month, a lack of stability is on your mind. You feel the desires to make some permanent choices, but are you ready to follow through on them?
Virgo (Aug. 24-Sep. 22)
It’s hard for you to make your intentions clear to others early in the month. The focus you usually have is missing from your words, and you may have to clean up some problems that arise later. You’re feeling content mid-month, something that will be enhanced by staying within your means, even when you really would prefer to live it up. This is a good time to make plans to improve your situation. You’ve set some goals as April comes to a close, and there’s no time like the present to push forward to accomplishing them. Your future is in your hands.
Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 23)
You seem to have more opportunities in both your relationships and business as the month begins. But more doesn’t always mean better: try not to be so distracted that you miss your best choices. Your confidence is high mid-April, but even now it might not take much to cause a falter. If it does, stay optimistic and focus on your goal to push through any problem. Late in the month you feel a need to excise something that’s souring your life, something about yourself. It’s not easy to change, but the first step is figuring out what you need to change, then developing a plan of attack.
Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)
The beginning of April is a perfect time to solidify your future in both the office and at home. Work out those deals; move forward in your relationships. Just don’t forget to read the fine print. Something is drawing out unpleasant memories mid-month. This isn’t something you can turn away from. Unless you confront what’s causing it, the discomfort could linger. You’re in a grove late in the month, and everything around you is proceeding smoothly. If you have any causes to champion, this is a time that it’ll be easiest to be understood.
Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21)
You have a lot on your plate early in the month, but you know exactly what you need to do to get things done, and your motivation is high to complete those projects. You’ll want to finish them quickly though, because there’s a storm of emotions brewing mid-month, and it’s going to be harder to stay focused and maintain your energy through this time. It will get better, but be careful while this feeling is engulfing you. You’re still feeling a bit sluggish late in April, and anyone exhibiting a lot of energy around you might annoy you. Express your need to slow down to your colleague, partner or friend. Hopefully they’ll understand and wait until you’re ready to catch up.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20)
You’re feeling adventurous early in the month, and the desire to build up your nest egg, in both finance and relationships, is strong. You’re also ready to refocus on anything that you might have been slightly slacking on recently. It’s time to move forward. Some things have been troubling you lately, and mid-April finally brings the opportunity to vent your true feelings. It might surprise some friends and colleagues, but staying true to yourself will help smooth down any ruffled feathers. Late in the month you’ve had plenty of time to prepare before making a presentation. You’ve been planning this talk for a while, but you took your time and your ideas and plans are finally ready to be shared and started.
Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb. 18)
You would be happier early in April if finance and relationships could just stay more as ideas than things you have to deal with. It’s hard for you to focus on either right now, or even one direction to take. You’re in a regressive mood mid-month. Others are looking at new things, but you feel like some traditional, or “old,” activities might be more your speed. You don’t often feel this way, but it might be nice to explore the idea for a while. You’re feeling particularly protective late in the month. If something unsavory happens in front of you, you’re not going to just let it pass. The people who appreciate your intervention are the people worth your time.
Pisces (Feb. 19-Mar. 20)
You are feeling a bit unfocused as the month begins; your thoughts ranging from flights of fancy to dreary and severe. But you can resist acting, or even speaking, about them if that’s what you want. Your energy is up and more focused mid-month, even feeling the unusual desire to step forward with your ideas. Luck doesn’t have to be on your side if you take charge. Your feeling much more deliberate as April comes to a close. You haven’t lost focus, but your sense of timing is strong. You will be ready when the time to act comes.
Aries (March 21-April 20)
The month begins with your eyes on the horizon. You know things will distract you, but you’re focused on your future right now, and nothing else is going to hold your attention for long. You’re feeling pretty chatty and blunt mid-April, something those around you will have mixed reactions to. Usually you’re more diplomatic, but right now you have things to say and you’re not shy about it. You’re feeling a bit reckless as the month comes to a close. Something unusual is coming, and you’re looking forward to the challenge!
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“Shelter in Place” from page 17 Making the problem worse, some individuals who contract the virus causing the COVID-19 disease have no symptoms or have mild symptoms, which means they may not be aware they carry the virus and are transmitting it to others. Because even people without symptoms can transmit the infection, and because evidence shows the infection is easily spread, gatherings and other interpersonal interactions can result in preventable transmission of the virus. This public health emergency has substantially worsened since the County issued the Prior Shelter Order on March 16, 2020, with a significant escalation in the number of positive cases, hospitalizations, and deaths, and increasing strain on health care resources. At the same time, evidence suggests that the restrictions on mobility and social distancing requirements imposed by the Prior Shelter Order are slowing the rate of increase in community transmission and confirmed cases by limiting interactions among people, consistent with scientific evidence of the efficacy of similar measures in other parts of the country and world. The scientific evidence shows that at this stage of the emergency, it remains essential to continue to slow virus transmission as much as possible to protect the most vulnerable, to prevent the health care system from being overwhelmed, and to prevent deaths. Extension of the Prior Shelter Order and strengthening of its restrictions are necessary to further reduce the spread of the COVID-19 disease, preserving critical and limited healthcare capacity in the County and advancing toward a point in the public health emergency Order of the County Health Officer to Shelter in Place Page 2 of 8 where transmission can be controlled. This Order is necessary to slow the rate of spread, and the Health Officer will re-evaluate it as further data becomes available. 9) This Order is issued in accordance with, and incorporates by reference, the March 4, 2020 Proclamation of a State of Emergency issued by Governor Gavin Newsom, the March 4, 2020 Declaration of a Local Health Emergency Regarding Novel Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) issued by the Health Officer, the March 10, 2020 Resolution of the Board of Supervisors of the County of Santa Cruz Ratifying and Extending the Declaration of a Local Health Emergency, and the March 10, 2020 Resolution of the Board of Supervisors of the County of Santa Cruz Proclaiming a Local Emergency. More Stringent 10) This Order is issued in light of evidence that the Prior Shelter Order has been generally effective in increasing social distancing, but that at this time additional restrictions are necessary to further mitigate the rate of transmission of COVID-19, to prevent the health care system from being overwhelmed, and prevent death. This Order comes after the release of substantial guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the California Department of Public Health, and other public health officials throughout the United States and around the world, including an increasing number of orders imposing similar social distancing requirements and mobility restrictions to combat the spread and harms of COVID-19. The Health Officer will continue to assess the quickly evolving situation and may modify or extend this Order, or issue additional Orders, related to COVID-19, as changing circumstances dictate. 11) This Order is also issued in light of the March 19, 2020 Order of the State Public Health Officer (the “State Shelter Order”), which set baseline statewide restrictions on non-residential business activities effective until further notice, as well as the Governor’s March 19, 2020 Executive Order N-33-20 directing California residents to follow the State Shelter Order. In certain respects, this Order adopts more stringent restrictions than
the State Shelter Order. This is necessary to address the particular facts and circumstances in this County. Without this tailored set of restrictions that further reduces the number of interactions between persons, scientific evidence indicates that the public health crisis in the County will worsen to the point at which it may overtake available health care resources within the County and increase the death rate. Also, this Order enumerates additional restrictions on non-work-related travel not covered by the State Shelter Order, including limiting such travel to performance of Essential Travel or Essential Activities, and sets forth Social Distancing Requirements for all individuals in the County when engaged in activities outside their residences. Where a conflict exists between this Order and any State public health order related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the most restrictive provision controls. 12) Definitions and Exemptions. A) For the purposes of this Order, individuals may leave their residence only to perform the following “Essential Activities.” But people at high risk of severe illness from COVID-19 and people who are sick are strongly urged to stay in their residence to the extent possible, except as necessary to seek or provide medical care or Essential Governmental Functions. Essential Activities are: i. To engage in activities or perform tasks important to their health and safety, or to the health and safety of their family or household members (including pets), such as, by way of example only and without limitation, obtaining medical supplies or medication, or visiting a health care professional. ii. To obtain necessary services or supplies for themselves and their family or household members, or to deliver those services or supplies to others, such as, by way of example only and without limitation, canned food, dry goods, fresh fruits and vegetables, pet supply, fresh meats, fish, and poultry, and any other household consumer products, products needed to work from home, or products necessary to maintain the habitability, sanitation, and operation of residences. iii. To engage in outdoor recreation activity, including, by way of example and without limitation, walking, hiking, bicycling, and running, in compliance with Social Distancing Requirements. Outdoor recreation activity at parks, beaches, and other open spaces must be in conformance with any restrictions on access and use established by the Health Officer, government, or other entity that manages such area to reduce crowding and risk of transmission of COVID-19. Such restrictions may include, but are not limited to, restricting the number of entrants, closing the area to vehicular access and parking, or closure to all public access. Outdoor recreation activity is subject to the following further restrictions: 1. Sports or activities that include the use of shared equipment, such as basketball, tennis, pickleball, or disc golf may only be engaged in by members of the same household or living unit. 2. Use of shared facilities for recreational activities outside of residences, including, but not limited to, golf courses, rock parks, climbing walls, pools, spas, shooting and archery ranges, and gyms, is prohibited and those areas must be closed for recreational purposes. 3. Use of high-touch equipment in recreational areas including, but not limited to, playgrounds, and outdoor gym equipment is prohibited. Such equipment shall be closed to public access and reflected as such by posted signage.
iv. To perform work for an Essential Business or to otherwise carry out activities specifically permitted in this Order, including Minimum Basic Operations, as defined in this Section. v. To provide necessary care for a family member or pet in another household who has no other source of care. vi. To attend a funeral with no more than 10 individuals present. vii. To move residences, but only if it is not possible to defer an already planned move, if the move is necessitated by safety, sanitation, or habitability reasons, or if the move is necessary to preserve access to shelter. Healthcare Volunteering B) For the purposes of this Order, individuals may leave their residence to work for, volunteer at, or obtain medically necessary services at “Healthcare Operations,” including, without limitation, hospitals, clinics, COVID-19 testing locations, dentists, pharmacies, blood banks and blood drives, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, other healthcare facilities, healthcare suppliers, home healthcare services providers, mental health providers, or any related and/ or ancillary healthcare services. “Healthcare Operations” also includes veterinary care and all healthcare services provided to animals. This exemption for Healthcare Operations shall be construed broadly to avoid any interference with the delivery of necessary healthcare. “Healthcare Operations” excludes fitness and exercise gyms and similar facilities. C) For the purposes of this Order, individuals may leave their residence to provide any services or perform any work necessary to the operation and maintenance of “Essential Infrastructure,” including airports, utilities (including water, sewer, gas, and electrical), oil refining, roads and highways, public transportation, solid waste facilities (including collection, removal, disposal, and processing facilities), cemeteries, mortuaries, crematoriums, and telecommunications systems (including the provision of essential global, national, and local infrastructure for internet, computing services, business infrastructure, communications, and web-based services). D) For the purposes of this Order, all first responders, emergency management personnel, emergency dispatchers, court personnel, and law enforcement personnel, and others who need to perform essential services are categorically exempt from this Order to the extent they are performing those essential services. Further, nothing in this Order shall prohibit any individual from performing or accessing “Essential Governmental Functions,” as determined by the governmental entity performing those functions in the County. E) For the purposes of this Order, a “business” includes any for-profit, non-profit, or educational entity, whether a corporate entity, organization, partnership or sole proprietorship, and regardless of the nature of the service, the function it performs, or its corporate or entity structure. F) For the purposes of this Order, “Essential Businesses” are: i. Healthcare Operations and businesses that operate, maintain, or repair Essential Infrastructure ii. Grocery stores, certified farmers’ markets, farm and produce stands, supermarkets, food banks, convenience stores, and other establishments engaged in the retail sale of unprepared food, canned food, dry goods, non-alcoholic beverages, fresh fruits and vegetables, pet supply, fresh meats, fish, and poultry, as well as hygienic products and household consumer products necessary for personal hygiene or the habitability,
sanitation, or operation of residences. The businesses included in this subparagraph (ii) include establishments that sell multiple categories of products provided that they sell a significant amount of essential products identified in this subparagraph, such as liquor stores that also sell a significant amount of food. iii. Food cultivation, including farming, livestock, and fishing; iv. Businesses that provide food, shelter, and social services, and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged or otherwise needy individuals; Construction Restrictions v. Construction, but only of the types listed in this subparagraph below: 1. Projects immediately necessary to the maintenance, operation or repair of Essential Infrastructure; 2. Projects associated with Healthcare Operations, including creating or expanding Healthcare Operations; 3. Affordable housing that is or will be at least partially income-restricted, including multiunit or mixed-use developments; 4. Public works projects if specifically designated as an Essential Governmental Function by the lead governmental agency; 5. Shelters and temporary housing, but not including hotels or motels; 6. Projects immediately necessary to provide critical non-commercial services to individuals experiencing homelessness, elderly persons, persons who are economically disadvantaged, and persons with special needs; 7. Construction necessary to ensure that existing construction sites that must be shut down under this Order are left in a safe and secure manner, but only to the extent necessary to do so; and 8. Construction or repair necessary to ensure that residences and buildings containing Essential Businesses are safe, sanitary, or habitable to the extent such construction or repair cannot reasonably be delayed; vi. Newspapers, television, radio, and other media services; vii. Gas stations and auto-supply, autorepair (including, but not limited to, for cars, trucks, motorcycles and motorized scooters), and automotive dealerships, but only for the purpose of providing autosupply and auto-repair services (and not, by way of example, car sales or car washes). This subparagraph (vii) does not restrict the on-line purchase of automobiles if they are delivered to a residence or Essential Business; viii. Bicycle repair and supply shops; ix. Banks and related financial institutions; Virtual Real Estate x. Service providers that enable residential transactions (including rentals, leases, and home sales), including, but not limited to, real estate agents, escrow agents, notaries, and title companies, provided that appointments and other residential viewings must only occur virtually or, if a virtual viewing is not feasible, by appointment with no more than two visitors at a time who reside within the same household or living unit and one individual showing the unit (except that in person visits are not allowed when the occupant is still residing in the residence); xi. Hardware stores; xii. Plumbers, electricians, exterminators, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the habitability, sanitation, and operation of residences and Essential Businesses; xiii. Arborists, landscapers, gardeners, and similar service professionals necessary to maintain the habitability, sanitation, operation of businesses or residences, or the safety of residents, employees, or the
public (such as fire safety or tree trimming to prevent a dangerous condition); xiv. Businesses providing mailing and shipping services, including postal boxes; xv. Educational institutions—including public and private K-12 schools, colleges, and universities—for purposes of facilitating remote learning or performing essential functions, provided that social distancing of six-feet per person is maintained to the greatest extent possible; xvi. Laundromats, drycleaners, and laundry service providers; xvii. Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food, but only for delivery or carry out. Schools and other entities that typically provide free food services to students or members of the public may continue to do so under this Order on the condition that the food is provided to students or members of the public on a pick-up and take-away, or delivery basis only. Schools and other entities that provide food services under this exemption shall not permit the food to be eaten at the site where it is provided, or at any other gathering site; xviii. Funeral home providers, mortuaries, cem-
eteries, and crematoriums, to the extent necessary for the transport, preparation, or processing of bodies or remains; No General Retail xix. Businesses that supply other Essential Businesses with the support or supplies necessary to operate, but only to the extent that they support or supply these Essential Businesses. This exemption shall not be used as a basis for engaging in sales to the general public from retail storefronts; xx. Businesses that have the primary function of shipping or delivering groceries, food, or other goods directly to residences or businesses. This exemption shall not be used to allow for manufacturing or assembly of non-essential products or for other functions besides those necessary to the delivery operation; xxi. Airlines, taxis, rental car companies, rideshare services (including shared bicycles and scooters), and other private transportation providers providing transportation services necessary for Essential Activities and other purposes expressly authorized in this Order;
“Shelter in Place” page 23
Mysteries and Thrillers
ACROSS
1. Wire danger 6. Part of a circumference 9. Nashville’s Keith 13. In a cold manner 14. Prefix for something revived 15. Paralyzing disease 16. Mulled wine 17. Egg cells 18. A do-nothing 19. *”Alphabet Series” detective novels author 21. *”It’s close to midnight, and something evil’s lurking in ____ ____” 23. Second mo. 24. Fabricca Italiana Automobili Torino
25. Not don’ts 28. Popular Japanese soup 30. *Agatha Christie’s famous sleuth 35. Wood sorrels 37. “Through” in text 39. Give sheep a haircut 40. Raise the roof 41. Wall or pedestal support 43. Cogito, ____ sum 44. Drink like a cat, two words 46. Be inclined 47. Commotions 48. Bewitch or beguile 50. Jack and Jill’s water jug 52. Put to work 53. *James Patterson’s “____ the Girls” 55. “Jack and the Beanstalk” Giant’s disapproval 57. *Hitchcock classic
61. *Poe’s “Tales of ____ and Imagination” 65. In the know 66. *Subject of Roswell’s mystery 68. Cocoon dwellers 69. King Julien XIII of “Madagascar,” e.g. 70. Bubble source 71. Possible allergic reaction 72. Gaelic tongue 73. Store posting, for short 74. Oceanic trenches
DOWN
1. Google alternative 2. Maple genus 3. Capital on the Baltic Sea 4. Blindman’s ____ 5. International ____ of Units 6. In a little while, old-fashioned
7. Once around 8. Raccoon’s South American cousin 9. *The Demon Barber 10. Spanish earthen pot 11. Coffin stand 12. *New ____, setting of “The Alienist” 15. Michelangelo’s famous Vatican statue and others like it, e.g. 20. Death reports, for short 22. Deli offering 24. Baby extractor 25. *Sherlock Holmes creator 26. Continental divide 27. Planktonic tunicate 29. *”Who ____ J.R.?” 31. Actress Perlman 32. “Lost” in Paris 33. Mar-a-___, pl. 34. Having a toothed margin
36. Undesirable location 38. Forearm bone 42. Enlighten 45. Slower 49. Oil drilling apparatus 51. Spoke with a speech defect 54. Make a murmuring sound 56. Chopin’s composition 57. Wide river valley 58. Water carrier 59. L.A. footballers 60. *HBO’s “____ Detective” 61. *Pamela Voorhees and Norma Bates, e.g. 62. D’Artagnan’s sword 63. Stairway alternative 64. Those not opposed 67. *Remus Lupin’s occasional body cover © Statepoint Media
Answers on 23 »
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / April 2020 / 19
COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR THE MONTEREY SYMPHONY The Monterey Symphony is seeking volunteers. If you love music and want to be involved, please call (831) 646-8511 or visit www.montereysymphony.org for more info. THE SCIENCE OF CHRISTIANITY Airing on Community TV — Comcast 27 and Spectrum 73 Saturdays: 11:00 am • Sundays: 3:00 pm In this video replay on Community Television, Mary Alice Rose, a Christian Science practitioner and teacher talks about parallels between the study of physical science and the study of Christian Science. She’ll help you to understand how Christian principles, scientifically applied, heal the body and transform lives. Rose had a 20-year career in science and technology that included work as a meteorologist for the National Severe Storms Laboratory and a manager developing the ground system for the Hubble Space Telescope. Now her life work is Christian Science healing and teaching others to heal. Visit www.cschurch.info for more information Sponsored by First Church of Christ, Scientist, Santa Cruz (Soquel)
ONGOING EVENTS Daily SANTA CRUZ ‘USED’ BOOKSHOP 10 am- 3 pm 2710 Chanticleer Ave. Santa Cruz Grey Bears: Every Monday and Friday is $10-a-bag book sale. Fill up a shopping bag with books for
With the current COVID-19 Crisis, please check in advance before attending any ongoing or dated events listed here. We will continue to print regular ongoing events that are expected to return. only $10! Thousands of titles for $1.50 or less: cookbooks, gardening, sci-fi, mysteries, classics and all sorts of fiction and nonfiction. Non-profit Grey Bears has served our community for 45 years. Grey Bears provides recycling services and accepts books and other donations for our thrift stores. Proceeds benefit our Brown Bag Program, distributing nutritious food to 3,900 seniors every week.
month, except June and December. Meetings are free to attend. All are welcome.
human trafficking survivors, and to listen or share experiences. Childcare provided on site. Spanish – Tuesdays 6:00-7:30 p.m. Servicios Monarca, 233 E. Lake Avenue, Watsonville (831) 722-4532 English – Wednesdays 6:00-7:30 p.m. Monarch Services, 1590 Seabright Avenue, SC (831) 4254030 For more information, visit www.monarchscc.org
Second Wednesdays SANTA CRUZ SONS IN RETIREMENT Mondays & Tuesdays MONTHLY MEETING WOMENCARE ARM-IN-ARM Noon, Elks Lodge at 150 Jewell St. 12:30 - 2 p.m. This statewide group of retired men invites you WomenCARE ARM-in-ARM support group for women to be our guest at our monthly luncheon. You’ll with advanced, recurrent and metastatic cancers. Meets meet kindred spirits, have a fine lunch and learn weekly Mondays & Tuesdays, with a separate meeting something new from a top notch guest speaker. every First and Third Tuesday every month. Weekdays Cost: $18. RSVP at 479-7096 Registration required. Call 457-2273 for more information and CASA ORIENTATIONS TO BECOME to register. No cost to attend. Second and Fourth Wednesdays ADVOCATES FOR CHILDREN www.womencaresantacruz.org WELLNESS ON THE CANCER JOURNEY CASA empowers volunteers to directly influence life-changing decisions affecting children in foster care. Tuesdays 11-12:30 pm, Old Soquel Plaza Court appointed special advocates are everyday people BUSINESS DEBTORS ANONYMOUS Learn how to safely support your body and emotions that, with just a few hours a week can have a lifetime of through the journey of Cancer — from diagnosis to 5:15-6:30pm, Calvary Episcopal Church, Parish Hall, 532 impact for a child who has been abused or neglected. softening the impact of chemo, radiation, and recovering Center Street, Santa Cruz. More info www.casaofsantacruz.org or call 831-761-2956 x102 well from surgery. We’ll address nausea, low energy, We specifically focus on recovering from debting on weakness, digestion, immune support, grief, stress and one’s business. Third Mondays more. Feel free to bring your partner or care team to this For more information: 831-425-3272. free class. Please come fed; water is available. STITCHERS BY THE SEA Limited Seats. Please register all attendees on 7 –9 p.m., St. Stephan’s Lutheran Church, 2500 Soquel Ave., Tuesdays & Wednesdays Eventbrite — Wellness on the Cancer Journey or call Santa Cruz SURVIVORS SUPPORT GROUPS 831-254-3270 to RSVP. Address given upon registration The Santa Cruz County chapter of the Embroiderers Monarch Services offers a safe space to meet other receipt. Guild of America meets on the third Monday of every survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and
20 / April 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
COMMUNITY CALENDAR ONGOING EVENTS (cont.) ADHD SUPPORT GROUP 6:30-8 p.m., Aptos Fire Station, 6934 Soquel Drive, Aptos The Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay Branch of CHADD hosts monthly support group meetings for anyone who would like to learn more about ADHD or has questions or concerns. Come share with those who understand. Second Wednesdays’ meeting is for parents of children, teens, and young adults with ADHD. The group for adults with ADHD, spouses, partners of someone with ADHD meets fourth Wednesdays of every month. Judy Brenis: jbbrenis@comcast.net, or call 831-8189619. Last Wednesdays Each Month MAGICIANS’ CLUB 7 p.m., Antonelli Club Room, 2655 Brommer St., Santa Cruz Attention Magic Lovers! Our new Magicians’ Club meets on the last Wed. of every month at 7pm in the club room at the Antonelli Mobile Home Park. If you do magic or want to get started in this fun hobby, join us. Questions? Call Jim at 685-3829 Thursdays FRIENDSHIP PUT TO MUSIC! 6:30 p.m., New Hall, La Selva Beach Club House, 3124 Estrella Ave. Classes every Thursday night. For more info call Sue Harris or Don Benson (831) 726-7053 or email at caller4u@att.net LUCKY STEPPERS MODERN SQUARE DANCE 6:30 pm, La Selva Beach Clubhouse, 314 Estrella Ave., La Selva Beach, CA 95076 It’s fun and easy to do! Friendship put to music; family friendly. Class takes place every Thursday Night at our new home in La Selva Beach! (Take Mar Monte off of Hwy 1, turns into Playa Blvd., turn right on Estrella) For more information, contact Sue Harris or Don Benson at (831) 726-7053 or e-mail at caller4u@att.net. Second and Fourth Thursdays CABRILLO HOST LIONS CLUB MEETINGS 6:30 p.m., Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Road. Want to make a difference in our community? Join the Cabrillo Lions Club twice every month and see what you can do to help in Santa Cruz County. Please RSVP cabrillolions@gmail.com
drop-in grief support group for adults grieving the death of a family member or a friend. This group is a place where you can share stories, learn tools for coping, and receive support from people who care. For more information, please call (831) 430-3000. Preregistration is required. First Fridays each month FIRST FRIDAY ART TOUR The 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.) Saturdays PILLS ANONYMOUS (PA) 8 a.m., Sutter Hospital, 2025 Soquel Ave The purpose of PA is to provide a safe, secure, and supportive place for people who are addicted to pills who want to get off of them. PA is offered all over the world. For questions, please contact Gary at (831)801-9578 or Kristin at (831)345-6515 SANTA CRUZ TENNIS CLUB 9 a.m., Soquel High School Tennis Courts The nonprofit Santa Cruz Tennis Club meets every Saturday morning at the Soquel High School courts beginning at 9:00 am. We play doubles and mixed doubles, mostly at an intermediate level, and switch around the players every 45 minutes. Balls are provided. $2 for first time visitors. Second Saturdays Each Month 2ND SATURDAY ON THE FARM 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Ag History Project Center at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Join us every 2nd Saturday on the Farm for free family activities. Each month we select a new theme to highlight historical agriculture with games, activities, and demonstrations that relate. We often have guest appearances from farm animals like llamas, draft horses, sheep, goats, chickens, rabbits, and more! You are sure to find something fun and entertaining for the whole family. Check our website and Facebook page for more details. FREE
Sundays OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS MEETING 4 - 5 pm, Ben Lomond Community Library, 9525 Mill St., Ben Fridays Lomond NAR-ANON SCOTTS VALLEY 6:30 p.m., Camp Recovery Center (Bison Center Room), 3192 Do you have a problem with compulsive over- or undereating? Anorexia? Bulimia? Compulsive exercising? Glen Canyon Road, Scotts Valley. You are not alone. Drop into a free, friendly OA 12-Step Nar-Anon is a twelve step support group for meeting with the solution. All are welcome! families and friends of addicts. There are no dues or fees to join. Just come to a meeting. You NAR-ANON SANTA CRUZ will hear others, who are going through similar 6:30 p.m., Sutter Maternity & Surgery Center (Sutter Room), problems, talk about how they cope and find 2900 Chanticleer Avenue, Santa Cruz recovery. To locate additional times and locations of meetings, please go Nar-Anon is a twelve step support group for families and friends of addicts. There are no dues or fees to join. to our website at www.nar-anon.org. Just come to a meeting. You will hear others, who are DROP-IN GRIEF SUPPORT going through similar problems, talk about how they 12-1 pm, Hospice of Santa Cruz County, two locations: cope and find recovery. 940 Disc Dr., SV • 85 Nielson St., Watsonville To locate additional times and locations of meetings, please go Hospice of Santa Cruz County is offering a to our website at www.nar-anon.org. n
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Learning In a Time of Crisis
By Ryan Colligan
A Family-Owned Business Responds
E
veryone has a plan ‘till they get we allowed them to temporarily step away punched in the mouth,” was famously while saving their shifts for whenever they said by boxing legend, Mike Tyson. felt comfortable coming back. For those that On March 16, our two businesses, are comfortable, we have provided PPE for Oceanside Supported Living and Safe at use during shifts, educational resources Home Senior Care, received a Mike Tyson- to protect them and our clients and 24/7 size punch square in the mouth when the ongoing support from our case management COVID-19 pandemic created a “shelter-in- team. place” ordinance throughout Santa Cruz Overtime, which is normally a major County. operational concern, has been an afterWhile many businesses were forced to thought as our priorities have shifted to shut their doors, ours have remained open. keeping our clients and employees cared for. In fact, due to the nature of the services we 2) Align Incentives with Desired Actions provide, our clients have relied on us now he majority of our employees are more than ever. hourly workers. These employees rely Oceanside provides services that allow on their bi-weekly paychecks to put food adults with developmental on their tables. disabilities to live safely and We didn’t want our independently in a manner employees to feel like they of their own choosing. Safe at had to make the decision to Home provides quality, nonwork out of necessity even if medical in-home care to the they were feeling sick so we elderly. We work with some of developed a policy to eliminate the most vulnerable individuals that conflict. in Santa Cruz County which Employees who are sick is why our services have been receive 75% of their normal designated as “essential” by the working wage if they are forced Lena, a member of the Oceanside to miss work due to illness for Department of Public Health. As the director of both Supported Living’s direct support an extended period of time. We staff, with Carol, a client. agencies, my challenge has been want our employees to feel like to support the health and well-being of our they can protect their health and the health 180 employees while continuing to provide of our clients without fear of lost income. quality services to our 60 clients during this 3) Stay Connected time of crisis. As I write this, we are in the n a dynamic environment such as this, thick of it. We are learning and adapting our it’s critical to keep open lines of comway through this pandemic the best we can. munication with your team. Our team While we don’t have all the answers, we communicates through several different have learned three important lessons that channels to ensure that information can have helped us stay on course. be shared and questions are answered in a 1) Put Employees First timely manner. ountless studies have shown that happy Our management team has an active employees are more invested in their group chat for daily correspondence. work. We have the most compassionate, Every Friday, we host our weekly Zoom dedicated and caring employees as a part calls to check-in with one another and stay of our team which is why their health and connected on major happenings. Emails safety is our number one priority. and phone calls go out daily to all of our Following the shelter-in-place ordi- clients, their family members and all our nance, all employees who were able to, were staff with updates and helpful resources. asked to work from home. Others, providing Being punched in the mouth hurts direct support to our clients, were called indi- but it’s not the end of the fight. For us, vidually and asked if they felt comfortable it’s just the beginning. We will continue working and were told they would be sup- to learn, continue to adapt and hopefully, ported with whatever decision they made. when this all over, end up stronger than For those that didn’t feel comfortable, we’ve ever been. n
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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / April 2020 / 21
Business Guide
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Governor’s Shelter In Place Order Is Open-Ended
T
he County of Santa Cruz’s response to the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, outbreak has been swift and developing by the minute. First, let me say I appreciate everyone’s cooperation with the state and county’s shelter-in-place orders and social distancing requirements, which are the most effective tools, along with strong hand-washing hygiene, in slowing community spread of the virus. While the county’s order was originally set to expire April 7, the state order is still in effect for Santa Cruz County and is open-ended. While effective in reducing risk, the order for people to remain at home except for essential errands, work and outdoor exercise has put an enormous strain on our local businesses, workforce, and families as companies large and small close their doors and residents get laid off. Even though federal relief is expected soon, the county stands to lose a huge amount of tax and fee revenue that fund core services — a problem the Board of Supervisors will need to address in future budget sessions. On March 24, the Board received an update from our County leadership regarding our response to COVID-19 and its impacts on the community. Since that meeting, the number of con-
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call our offices 831.688.7549
www.tpgonlinedaily.com 22 / April 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
By Bruce McPherson, Fifth District Supervisor
firmed cases has risen from the 24 to 49 cases as of March 31, with one death of a county resident resulting from the virus. The number of confirmed cases is expected to increase as testing becomes more frequent. But as testing increases, so does the already-existing need for more personal protection equipment, or PPE, for healthcare workers and other frontline personnel. The county has released nearly all its stockpile of N95 protective masks to critical healthcare facilities. While the state and federal government work to acquire more supplies of masks, surgical gowns, face shields and gloves, the county has established an online donation form for community members and businesses willing to contribute supplies. The address is https://www. s a n t a c ru z h e a l t h . o rg / ppedonate. On March 24, the Board also voted unanimously to enact protections through May 31 against residential and commercial evictions in the unincorporated areas for those who have negatively been impacted by COVID-19. We want to ensure those who have lost wages, are caring for a sick family member, or are facing other challenges as a result of the emergency not be forced from their homes or businesses. Renters must be able to demonstrate a COVIDrelated hardship to qualify under the moratorium, and they still have the
responsibility to pay rent at some point. Landlords and renters are encouraged to negotiate in the interim as landlords also have bills to pay, including in many cases mortgages on their rental properties. The County’s Treasurer-Tax Collector is providing some leniency on late fees and interest related to the April 10 property tax deadline, which is set by state law. The form to request a special COVID-19 Penalty Waiver Form for late fees and interest due on property taxes is at www. co.santacruz.ca.us/Departments/ TaxCollector.aspx. The county is also working with the cities of Santa Cruz and Watsonville to create emergency shelter and triage for people experiencing homelessness during the COVID-19 response. While we will not be able to shelter every unhoused person in the county during the shelter-in-place order, we are setting up temporary shelters and renting motel rooms for those who require isolation due to infection or exposure, as well as those whose ages or medical vulnerability necessitate extra precaution. For more local information on the COVID-19 response, visit santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus, call 211, text COVID-19 to 211211, or call the County’s COVID-19 call center at 831-454-4242 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. everyday. If you would like to sign up for my newsletter, please send an email to JM.Brown@santacruzcounty.us with the subject line: Newsletter. n Thank you and be well.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Scotts Valley halts evictions thru May 31
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n a special meeting March 24, the Scotts Valley City Council unanimously voted to prohibit evictions through May 31 for residential and commercial tenants for non-payment of rent COVID-19. “We want to go out of our way to help people,” said Mayor Randy Johnson. More than 100 emails came in from renters affiliated with the Action Network, a progressive
online organizing platform, making the same request: Emergency rental or mortgage assistance, prevention of utility shutoffs and halt fees and more public hand-washing station and portable toilets. Most lived in Santa Cruz, some in Watsonville and Boulder Creek. “I live in a house with seven other people, including my wife who does not have health care,”
wrote Gabriel Mindel of Santa Cruz. “All of us are either students or teachers… Many of us have already lost our jobs.” “Everyone’s under financial strain, we’re doing our level best,” Johnson said, noting the city isn’t in a position to offer financial assistance. Recently at the Sheraton Four Points hotel, previously a source of room tax revenue for the city, he saw just one car in the parking lot, “heretofore, it was packed.” n
SCCAS Featured Pet Dagwood Needs You! Badly!
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e have all been scratching our heads about why Dagwood (A266906) has been with us so long. This silly, social, athletic, elfin boy is not only adorable but a great, compact size. He has been social and active since he arrived and is a great companion in the making. He does need to smooth out some rough edges (still doesn’t understand that a counter isn’t necessarily for jumping on) so he needs some angel adopters that will find his antics amusing and will have the patience to gently redirect him and wait out his decompression period. Dagwood is food motivated but hasn’t shown any tendency to be possessive about his goodies. He is VERY eager around other dogs and desperately wants someone to romp with. His “girlfriend” and perfect playmate (another pittie) got adopted, which was great for her but a sad day for Dagwood. He has been equally enthusiastic about meeting all dogs, which can be a little overwhelming for some of the pipsqueaks and old timers, so he will need to be introduced to any resident dogs prior to adoption to make sure everyone will stay happy. He has been enjoying any attention and all types of handling but after so long in the kennel, is a bit restless and distracted (understandably). He is bouncy on leash and does some eager pulling but does well on the harness we’ve fitted him with. Dagwood gallops around when free to run and will begin to chase tennis balls but doesn’t necessarily go the distance. He really wants to be close to his family, human and dog members alike. This wonderful, outgoing guy needs to find an energetic family that can give him daily exercise, plenty of patience, positive reinforcement training, and LOTS of love. Unless you are a rough and tumble family with experience around no-sense-ofpersonal-space dogs, children in the home should be 10+ since Dagwood still acts like a pup and wants to “hug” people and barrel around his environment at times. No info on how he’d do with cats. To adopt your new friend, visit one of the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter locations, or their website at www.scanimalshelter.org. n ••• Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter has two full-service, open-admission shelters: Santa Cruz Location (Public Entrance): 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 Hours: Daily 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Wednesdays: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Watsonville Location: 580 Airport Blvd, Watsonville, CA 95076 Hours: Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed 12-1) Closed on Sunday SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182
Mysteries and Thrillers © Statepoint Media
“Shelter in Place” from page 19 xxii. Home-based care for seniors, adults, children, and pets; xxiii. Residential facilities and shelters for seniors, adults, and children; xxiv. Professional services, such as legal, notary, or accounting services, when necessary to assist in compliance with non-elective, legally required activities; xxv. Services to assist individuals in finding employment with Essential Businesses; xxvi. Moving services that facilitate residential or commercial moves that are allowed under this Order; xxvii. Childcare facilities providing services that enable owners, employees, volunteers, and contractors for Essential Businesses, Essential Governmental Functions, or Minimum Basic Operations to work as allowed under this Order. Children of owners, employees, volunteers, and contractors who are not exempt under this Order may not attend childcare facilities. To the extent possible, childcare facilities must operate under the following conditions: 1. Childcare must be carried out in stable groups of 12 or fewer (“stable” means that the same 12 or fewer children are in the same group each day). 2. Children shall not change from one group to another. 3. If more than one group of children is cared for at one facility, each group shall be in a separate room. Groups shall not mix with each other. 4. Childcare providers shall remain solely with one group of children. Essential Travel G) For the purposes of this Order, “Minimum Basic Operations” means the following activities for businesses, provided that owners, employees, and contractors comply with Social Distancing Requirements as defined this Section, to the extent possible, while carrying out such operations: i. The minimum necessary activities to maintain and protect the value of the business’s inventory and facilities; ensure security, safety, and sanitation; process payroll and employee benefits; provide for the delivery of existing inventory directly to residences or businesses; and related functions. ii. The minimum necessary activities to facilitate owners, employees, and contractors of the business being able to continue to work remotely from their residences, and to ensure that the business can deliver its service remotely. iii. Any additional social distancing measures being implemented (see the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance at: https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/ guidance-businessresponse.html). H) For the purposes of this Order, “Essential Travel” means travel for any of the following purposes: i. Travel related to the provision of or access to Essential Activities, Essential Governmental Functions, Essential Businesses, or Minimum Basic Operations. ii. Travel to care for any elderly, minors, dependents, or persons with disabilities. iii. Travel to or from educational institutions for purposes of receiving materials for remote learning, for receiving meals, and any other related services. iv. Travel to return to a place of residence from outside the County. v. Travel required by law enforcement or court order. vi. Travel required for non-residents to return to their place of residence outside the County.
vii. Travel to manage after-death arrangements and burial. viii. Travel to arrange for shelter or avoid homelessness. ix. Travel to avoid domestic violence or child abuse. x. Travel for parental custody arrangements. xi. Travel to a place to temporarily reside in a residence or other facility to avoid potentially exposing others to COVID-19, such as a hotel or other facility provided by a governmental authority for such purposes. I) For purposes of this Order, “residences” include hotels, motels, shared rental units and similar facilities. Residences also include living structures and outdoor spaces associated with those living structures, such as patios, porches, backyards, and front yards that are only accessible to a single family or household unit. J) For purposes of this Order, “Social Distancing Requirements,” means: i. Maintaining at least six-foot social distancing from individuals who are not part of the same household or living unit (except to the limited extent necessary to provide care, including childcare, adult or senior care, care to individuals with special needs, and patient care); ii. Frequently washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer that is recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as effective in combatting COVID-19; iii. Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or fabric or, if not possible, into the sleeve or elbow (but not into hands); and iv. Avoiding all social interaction outside the household when sick with a fever or cough. 13. Government agencies and other entities operating shelters and other facilities that house or provide meals or other necessities of life for individuals experiencing homelessness should take appropriate steps to help ensure compliance with Social Distancing Requirements. 13) For additional guidance, government agencies should refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Interim Guidance Responding to Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) Among People Experiencing Unsheltered Homelessness. https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/unsheltered-homelessness.html 14) Pursuant to Government Code sections 26602 and 41601 and Health and Safety Code section 101029, the Health Officer requests that the Sheriff and all chiefs of police in the County ensure compliance with and enforce this Order. The violation of any provision of this Order constitutes an imminent threat and menace to public health, constitutes a public nuisance, and is punishable by fine, imprisonment, or both. 15) Copies of this Order shall promptly be: (1) made available at the County offices at 701 Ocean St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060; (2) posted on the County Public Health Department website (www. santacruzhealthservices.org); and (3) provided to any member of the public requesting a copy of this Order. 16) If any provision of this Order or its application to any person or circumstance is held to be invalid, the remainder of the Order, including the application of such part or provision to other persons or circumstances, shall not be affected and shall continue in full force and effect. To this end, the provisions of this Order are severable.
IT IS SO ORDERED ••• Gail Newel, MD March 31, 2020 Health Officer of the County of Santa Cruz
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / April 2020 / 23
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