Scotts Valley Times: June 2020

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Family Owned For Over 29 Years • Scotts Valley, Ben Lomond, Boulder Creek & Felton

June 2020 • Vol 23 No. 6

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Performing Arts Center Coming to Scotts Valley

The Scotts Valley Community Theater Guild is pleased to announce that it has signed a multi-year lease for the operation of the Scotts Valley Performing Arts Center adjacent to the Library.

Full Story page 5

Scotts Valley Businesses Reopen

By Jondi Gumz

Craig Rosenberg is eager to reopen Mr. D’s Barbershop after being closed since the county health officer issued a “shelter in place” order March 16, shuttering nonessential businesses to slow the spread of the contagious coronavirus COVID-19.

So on Monday, he came by Scotts Valley City Hall

to pick up his “business restart kit,” a gallon of locally produced sanitizer and 50 disposable face masks – new essentials for businesses countywide taking advantage of the state’s permission to reopen barbershops and hair salons. ... continues on page 4

Universal Audio Workers Make 1,000 Masks for Kaiser Medical

Universal Audio, which is known for manufacturing professional audio recording hardware and software, is pitching in the fight against COVID-19 Full Story page 6

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2 / June 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

No. 6

Volume 23

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16

22

Table of Contents

9

Cover

Scotts Valley Businesses Reopen, By Jondi Gumz

5 6 7 9 10

15 16 18

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Community News Performing Arts Center Coming to Scotts Valley: Guild: Not Too Late To Be An Inaugural Supporter, By Trish Melehan Universal Audio Workers Make 1K Masks for Kaiser Medical Staff Santa Margarita Board Evaluates Groundwater, By the San Lorenzo Valley Water District • North County Graduation Events SV Farmers’ Market To Open June 6: County Order Requires Shoppers To Wear a Face Mask, By Nicole Zahm Mark Stone to Speak to North County Democrats • Hundreds of Seniors Get Great Plates • Goodwill: Too Early To Drop Off Donations • New Leaf Adjusts Hours EDD Hiring 1,800 Temp Workers Scotts Valley High: Art Night Memories In Memory of Jett Ramsey: Virtual Fundraiser Aims To Raise $80K • Valley Churches Garden Tour Goes Virtual, By Lynn Robinson Leter to the Editor A Nontoxic Alternative to Roundup

Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Newsletter • Pages 11-14 11 Chamber Announces New Covid-19 Economic Recovery Task Force • Resilience Roadmap Stage 2 Begins: State Approves Santa Cruz County Variance Application 12 Mountain School Music and Little Mozarts Collaborate Together for Online Classes • Local Scotts Valley Business Makes KN95 Masks Available 13 Armitage Wines: Finding New Ways to Keep The Wine Flowing!

14 SV Water District Declares Stage 2: No Surcharges Are Planned Due to COVID-19 Pandemic

Monthly Horoscope • Page 19 – Your November Horoscope Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 20,21

Covid-19 Survey 21 Questions About How Coronavirus is Effecting You

Featured Columnists 19 Intention Matters to Your Health, By Nisha Manek, MD, FACP, FRCP (UK) 22 A Path to Reopening, By Bruce McPherson, Fifth District Supervisor 23 Nature Gets Too Much Credit, By Tony Tomeo

SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 23 — Big Brother and Little Brother

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / June 2020 / 3

COVER STORY publisher

Patrice Edwards

editor

Jondi Gumz

contributing writers Camisa Composti, Jondi Gumz, Trish Melehan, Nicole Zahm, Lynn Robinson, Nisha Manek, Bruce McPherson, Tony Tomeo layout Michael Oppenheimer, Jim Johnson graphic artists Michael Oppenheimer, Jim Johnson photography Michael Oppenheimer, Jim Johnson, Brad King website Michael Oppenheimer, Camisa Composti production coordinator Camisa Composti advertising sales Don Beaumont, Teri Huckobey Cathe Race

office coordinator

Bill Pooley, James Hudson

distribution

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

“Reopen” From Page 1 So did Rogelio Guzman, owner of Bruno’s Bar and Grill, which shifted to takeout to survive, but as of Saturday, could take advantage of the state’s permission to offer restaurant seating indoors in Santa Cruz County.

City Manager Tina Friend has 100 kits to give away to help shuttered businesses in Scotts Valley follow the new rules to reopen and keep themselves and their customers safe.

As of June 1, Scotts Valley had few COVID-19 confirmed cases: 7 of the 212 countywide. The county had two deaths early in the pandemic and reports 8,398 negative lab test results, but recent Mother’s Day weekend gatherings in Watsonville led to an increase in cases and hospitalizations, three confirmed and 10 suspected.

Through the month of May, city officials were working on business recovery plans for the 250 business entities they know operate in Scotts Valley. Like other cities, Scotts Valley has lost sales tax and hotel room tax revenues as residents countywide and statewide were ordered to stay home and retail stores and hotels were closed.

Since May 7, when the county health officer allowed low-risk businesses such as florists, sporting good stores and clothing stores to offer curbside delivery, the city of Scotts Valley stepped up its outreach to business owners.

About 45 people participated in a Zoom webinar where Dedra Bennett, owner of Zinnia’s, Sue Carlson of Classic Hair, and representatives from 1440 Multiversity, Malone’s Grille, and one of the shopping centers, shared their experiences, lessons learned and plans for the future.

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Rogelio Guzman, owner of Bruno’s Bar and Grill, picks up his business restart kit.

Businesses are offering their merchandise online, creating smart-phone based waitlists for restaurant pickup and requiring appointments to observe the sixfoot social distancing rule. The six-foot rule was adopted to prevent COVID-19 from being spread via air droplets from one person to another.

Businesses also are requiring employees to wear masks and gloves, taking their temperatures and sending them home with pay if they are sick. Landlords are making rent adjustments and deferments.

Next came a city survey designed to identify needs and gather recommendations on how to proceed; four dozen businesses responded, with 60 percent saying they’ve reduced their workforce.

A third of the businesses that responded had losses exceeding $100,000; one lost more than $500,000 and one lost more than $2 million. For half the busi-

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

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Craig Rosenberg is ready to reopen Mr. D’s Barbershop in the Safeway shopping Center after picking up a free business restart kit.

4 / June 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

nesses, the loss exceeded $50,000.

One respondent felt the health order “discriminates against small business yet provides amazing revenue opportunities for big box type stores.”

Survey respondents requested a “shop and eat local” campaign, continued alcohol to go/delivery and outside seating options.

With the mandate for six-foot social distancing, restaurant capacity shrinks.

So outdoor seating is way to expand that capacity and meet the six-foot rule.

Friend said outdoor seating is on the horizon.

On Friday, the same day county supervisors appealed to the state for a variance to reopen restaurants, hair salons and barbershops, Friend signed an order creating a temporary special permit allowing restaurants to set up outdoor dining in common areas, sidewalks and parking lots.

She said a simple two-page application, no fee required, is all that’s needed with the application to be filed by shopping center owners on behalf of the restaurants in their complex.

Restaurants must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, she added.

She expects outdoor dining to be popular this summer.

“Our weather is so great in Scotts Valley,” she said.

George Jammal, who with his wife owner Flying Crane Massage, would like to reopen, but Gov. Newsom considers massage to be higher risk and not allowed at this stage.

Jammal doesn’t know when he will be able to reopen but he’s preparing for that day. He came by to get his restart kit from the city, and he said he’s purchased $800 worth of supplies he thinks will be necessary.

“I’m optimistic,” he said. n ••• Cover Photo: Scotts Valley City Manager Tina Friend hands out free business restart kits. • Credit: Jondi Gumz

COMMUNITY NEWS

Performing Arts Center Coming to Scotts Valley

CASA CARES ABOUT BEING THERE. NO MATTER WHAT.

Guild: Not Too Late To Be An Inaugural Supporter

By Trish Melehan

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ith theatre, you have to be ready for anything,” said the great actor, Willem Dafoe.

The Scotts Valley Community Theater Guild is pleased to announce that it has signed a multi-year lease for the operation of the Scotts Valley Performing Arts Center adjacent to the Library.

As the lease was consummated just a few days before the coronavirus pandemic hit full force, our professionals and volunteers were put on a temporary construction hold. However, the good news is that, with the county’s non-essential construction restrictions lifted, the Guild is now ready to start the construction and installation of “The Temporary” Performing Arts Center.

Although most theater and music groups in the county have canceled their productions for much of the rest of the year, the Guild will proceed with making the space suitable for events and performances, anticipating theater and the arts making a resounding comeback in our community once the dark days are behind us.

In fact, the Guild anticipates this 9,000-square-foot mostly open and airy space will be in very high demand with the use of social distancing and other safety protocols.

With that in mind, the Guild is proceeding to use the funds on hand, to call in existing pledges, and to seek donations to secure final touches, such as the purchase of a portable stage, drapery and other final fixtures. It is not too late to be recognized as a “founder” or an “inaugural supporter,” with other naming opportunities available.

Laurence Olivier once said, “I believe that in a great city, or even in a small city or a village, a great theatre is the outward and visible sign of an inward and probable culture.”

With your help, Scotts Valley will finally have a Performing Arts Center for theater, music, dance, as well as other enriching and cultural activities. If you are interested in helping with this endeavor, visit the Guild’s website at www.SVCtheaterguild.org. n

Join us for an online information meeting to learn more about how you can be there for a child in foster care. All it takes is 2 hours a week to make a lifetime of an impact.

C ASA OF SAN TA CR U Z. OR G / SI GN UP 83 1. 761. 2956

Val Rebhahn, Scotts Valley Community Theater Guild Advisory Board member and Scotts Valley resident, sets a bank of lights in the coming Performing Arts Center.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / June 2020 / 5

COMMUNITY NEWS

Universal Audio Workers Make 1K Masks for Kaiser Medical Staff U niversal Audio, which is known for manufacturing professional audio recording hardware and software, is pitching in the fight against COVID-19 — making more than 1,000 masks for the Kaiser Permanente medical staff in Santa Cruz and Watsonville.

At the UA Custom Shop, 10 highly skilled employees are usually busy hand-wiring analog recording equipment — products known as the industry standard for 50-plus years.

When all Universal Audio offices closed on March 16 as part of the Bay Area’s “shelter in place” order, that manufacturing ceased.

Since then, UA Custom Shop employees tackled the important task of making cloth masks that were in short supply for medical staff. Working from home, they have produced more than 1,000 masks and with the shelter in place order continuing, there’s no signs of slowing down.

“We are proud to share the enormous

6 / June 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Terry Ramirez, of Universal Audio (from left), stands with Kaiser Permanente’s Brenda George and Adrienne Gaughan after delivering more than 1,000 masks to the medical staff at Santa Cruz and Watsonville locations. talent, craftsmanship, and dedication of our Custom Shop workers with the community in these unprecedented times,” said Bill Putnam, CEO of Universal Audio.

“Though we look forward to the day when we can get back to building world-class analog gear, we hope these efforts will

make a difference in the lives of our local medical community.”

The masks, which share designs expressing UA’s connection to music and creativity, have been donated to the Kaiser Permanente’s medical offices in Scotts Valley and Watsonville. n

TOP LEFT: Brenda George, RN MBA , Director Medical Offices at Kaiser Permanente, inspects the new masks.

ABOVE: Masks with musical themes are ready to be delivered.

LEFT: Miguel Zafra (left) and Rosarillo Carillo make masks at home for Universal Audio to distribute.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Santa Margarita Board Evaluates Groundwater By the San Lorenzo Valley Water District

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ith the rainy season behind us, the focus of San Lorenzo Valley Water District is now on future groundwater levels as the drier summer months approach.

Groundwater is the primary source of drinking water for district customers from June through October when surface water flow is low during drier months. Rainfall is the main source of recharge to the basin and surface water flows.

The groundwater basin is shared by the San Lorenzo Valley Water District, Scotts Valley Water District and Mount Hermon Association, as well as local businesses and residents using private wells.

The Santa Margarita Groundwater

Agency at its Board of Directors meeting in April held an informational session that centered on groundwater levels and the agency’s goals for future groundwater levels.

“SLVWD” page 17

North County Graduation Events San Lorenzo Valley High School: Drivethrough graduation 10 a.m. to noon June 5 for grads and their families.

Scotts Valley High School: The planned graduation ceremony has been postponed until July 2.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR A Nontoxic Alternative to Roundup live in La Selva and have a concern about the use of Roundup in local gardens.

More people have been home because of the lockdown and more in their gardens.

I have noticed several gardens spraying the poison Roundup in the gardens and in the meridians and rock areas by their driveways if a house is mostly rock as the decor of the front yard.

After spraying they water the rock area and the drainage feeds into the street and drains. Dogs walk in this water, strollers drive over the water. I saw a mother with a child and a dog standing in the area someone while someone spraying the Roundup and it was windy.

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Roundup is a known carcinogen and we are dealing with a pandemic that may be caused by the degradation of the environment and our misuse of resources including animals and soil.

I am surprised and concerned that for convenience Roundup is being used at a great cost. There are many options that are nontoxic but they take some mixing up a couple of simple ingredient. One recipe calls for 1/2 gallon of vinegar, 1/2 cup of salt, and 2 Tablespoons of dish soap.

It is imperative we change our habits to be able to offer a future for those children going by in strollers and for the health of those around us. I hope this suggestion is taken seriously.

— Nanda Currant

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / June 2020 / 7

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8 / June 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

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COMMUNITY NEWS

SV Farmers’ Market To Open June 6

County Order Requires Shoppers To Wear a Face Mask

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By Nicole Zahm

he Scotts Valley Farmers’ Market opens its doors for the 2020 season on June 6. Every Saturday until Thanksgiving week a quality collection of regional farms and food businesses will throw up their tents to sell a colorful array of fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs, seafood, artisanal bread and other staple foods.

In its 12th year, located at the Scotts Valley Community Center, the market connects residents directly with farms. It is an essential part of the regional food system as well as a resource for nutritious organic foods and basic agricultural education.

Another option is the Felton Farmers’ Market which opened June 2 in the downtown corridor off Highway 9, Felton, with redwood trees for a backdrop. The market will be open every Tuesday through October.

This year, in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, supporting local food growers is as important as ever. Shopping outside in wide aisles, with the benefit of sunlight and openair, is also one of the safest ways to meet your weekly grocery needs.

Certified farmers’ markets are considered essential food outlets under the County of Santa Cruz Shelter-In-Place ORDER. The Scotts Valley Farmers’ Market and the Felton Farmers’ Market follow state, county and public health requirements regarding COVID-19 and has implemented new systems and infrastructure to prioritize community health and safety. As a result we will not be hosting special events in 2020 and will pare down to our most fundamental function – providing healthy, wholesome food to residents.

While the market will look different our team of hard-working staff and outstanding vendors will still be bringing 100% of their energy, dedication and spiritedness to the market every week. We also continue to offer the Market Match program helping EBT (CalFresh) users stretch their dollars.

In June, the Farmers’ Markets will offer a Double Match Special to CalFresh/EBT users – providing TWO Market Match tokens for every EBT token up to $10. Ten dollars of EBT becomes $30 in June at the farmers’ markets.

The matching tokens are only for fresh fruits and vegetables.

In past years EBT and Market Match transactions increased by nearly 100% with this incentive, suggesting that the program has a substantial impact.

Join our WEEKLY NEWSLETTER for regular market updates and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Please attend and adhere to the new market protocol – there will be robust signage and clear markings for customers to follow.

We’re in this together and look forward to another season at the Scotts Valley Farmers’ Market.

• All vendors are required to wash hands frequently, wear masks and gloves and to have hand-washing stations.

• All sampling of fruits, vegetables and other foods is suspended.

• The music area, seating area and kids zone are suspended.

• Additional hand washing stations will be provided at each market.

• Market staff will be implementing visual guides and infrastructure for physical distancing and enforcing these regulations.

Customers…

• Please stay home if you aren’t feeling well.

• Wear a face covering/mask as required by the County of Santa Cruz.

• Avoid touching your face, nose and mouth (especially after handling money).

• Practice physical distancing of six feet from any other person in the market space.

• Wash your hands often and for a minimum of 20 seconds.

• Only touch what you purchase. n ••• Visit www.santacruzfarmersmarket.org for more information or contact Executive Director Nesh Dhillon at info@santacruzfarmersmarket.org.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / June 2020 / 9

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10 / June 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Mark Stone to Speak to North County Democrats ssemblymember Mark Stone will speak to North County Democrats at their monthly zoom meeting at 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, June 2, He will discuss what the State Legislature is doing to address Covid-19 pandemic challenges.

Members of the public who would like Mark Stone to attend can send an email to redmtn2@comcast.net for information on how to join the meeting.

••• Hundreds of Seniors Get Great Plates undreds of local seniors are now enrolled in Great Plates, a Santa Cruz County Human Services program that delivers three nutritious meals a day from local restaurants to seniors.

Individuals who are 65 or older (or 60-64 and are high-risk) are eligible. To qualify, you must: • Live alone or with one other programeligible adult • Not receive assistance from other state or federal nutrition assistance programs (such as CalFresh, Meals on Wheels) • Have annual income that does not exceed $74,940 (single) or $101,460 (2-person) • Cannot currently prepare or obtain meals.

How do you apply? Provide your full name, phone, date of birth, and preferred language on a confidential voice mail to (831) 454-4406 or email the information to hsd_greatplates@santacruzcounty.us.

Human Services staff will contact you for a free screening to confirm if you qualify.

This county program is in partnership with local community based organizations,

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and funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the State of California with local support from Community Foundation Santa Cruz County.

This program ends June 10, unless extended by the state.

••• Goodwill: Too Early To Drop Off Donations ith many sheltering at home, people are cleaning out their closets and garages, so Goodwill Industries is asking people not to drop off their unwanted items at local Goodwill stores.

All Goodwill Central Coast stores and donation centers are still closed, so Goodwill officials are asking the community not to leave donations at closed donation sites. Leaving donations at closed stores and centers will cause them to be damaged.

Goodwill has stores and donation centers on the Central Coast including Capitola and Scotts Valley that will begin operations as soon as the state and counties allow. As soon as there is an opening date, everyone will be notified. The best way to be notified is to sign up for email announcements on the Goodwill website at ccgoodwill.org.

Career connection services and virtual training are available through Goodwill Central Coast’s website at ccgoodwill. org and at https://www.facebook.com/ goodwillcentralcoast/.

••• New Leaf Adjusts Hours o best support our community and staff, we here at New Leaf Community Markets have temporarily extended our shopping hours.

Half Moon Bay and Westside Santa Cruz locations will now be open from 7 a.m.-9 p.m., with “Community Care Hour” reserved for seniors and those who are at-risk will be from 7-9 a.m.

Aptos, Downtown Santa Cruz and Capitola locations will be open from 8 a.m.-9 p.m., with the first hour of the day (8-9 a.m.) reserved for Community Care Customers.

Another change is stores will once again allow customers to bring in reusable shopping bags. Customers will be asked to bag their own groceries, and as a precaution are asked to wash the bags between uses.

We are continually reassessing our policies as the situation evolves in our communities, and will continue to do the right thing to keep our staff and customers safe. Find the latest updates at www.newleaf.com/stay-healthy/ Thank you to everyone who helped with suggestions. n

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Chamber Announces New Covid-19 Economic Recovery Task Force

he Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors voted unanimously at their May board meeting to create a new Covid-19 Economic Recovery Task Force.

This new task for will work closely with the City of Scotts Valley’s Economic Recovery Team, which includes Mayor Randy Johnson and Vice Mayor Derek Timm.

Representing the Chamber on this Task Force will be: Chamber Executive Director Danny Reber, Phil Neuman (CyAsTech), Victor Alejandro (Cisco Systems), Joanne Guzman (Bruno’s Bar & Grill), and Board President Stephen Hoversten (Modern Woodman).

Outreach services that the Chamber will provide all businesses that need support in various areas such as marketing, advertising on multiple communication platforms including social media and guidance for requirements at the local city, county and state levels that include compliance checklists for various industries and assistance with completing or follow-up with the various federal government SBA loans, EIDL Grants and Payroll Protection Program.

The City of Scotts Valley Provides Restart Toolkits to 100 City Businesses!

As businesses are able to open back up for in-store sales and the reopening of other business sectors is on the horizon, the City of Scotts Valley wants to support these efforts by providing up to 100 businesses with a Restart Toolkit, including one free gallon of locally produced hand sanitizer and 50 disposable face masks.

Toolkits will be available for pickup in front of Scotts Valley City Hall (1 Civic Center Drive) on Monday, June

1st and Tuesday, June 2nd from 9-10 am. Businesses must fill out this form to receive a toolkit.

THE PROCESS: • Fill out the form and choose a pickup window.

• During the selected window, business representative pulls up to City Hall in vehicle and pops trunk or unlocks door.

• Representative gives identifying business information through window.

• Masked/gloved City representative will place toolkit in car and shut trunk/door.

• Get back to business!

The goal of this committee will be to anticipate and meet the needs of our local business community during these unprecedented times, as well as be their voice to our local, County, and State leaders. One of the first tasks requested of this group will be create a unified marketing message on behalf of the City of Scotts Valley and assist with reopening kits being provided by the City of Scotts Valley.

We are so grateful to all of our Scotts Valley businesses from providing outstanding service to our community.

We look forward to continuing to partner with you to get our local economy thriving again.

Resilience Roadmap Stage 2 Begins

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State Approves Santa Cruz County Variance Application

he California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has accepted the County’s variance attestation. Furthermore, Santa Cruz County Health Officer Dr. Gail Newel has issued an order implementing allowed activities, including dine-in restaurant services and barbershops/ hair salons, with modifications. Both of these activities are allowed to resume immediately.

Operations that involve touching

faces such as eyelash services, eyebrow implement Social Distancing Protocols and design worksite-specific plans, waxing/threading, and facials are train employees, and implement not allowed. The Santa Cruz control measures to prevent the County Health Officer does spread of COVID-19. No further not intend to allow schools to County approvals are needed resume campus learning at this before operations may resume. time. State guidance on schools Before reopening, all facilities is expected shortly, at which time the Health Officer will review the must: • Perform a detailed risk assessment guidance and local epidemiologic data and implement a site-specific Social to determine the next steps.

Distancing Protocol Before opening, businesses must

Congratulations to All Graduates!

• The Social Distancing Protocol must explain how the business is achieving the following, as applicable: • Limiting the number of people who can enter into the facility and work areas at any one time to ensure that people in the facility and work areas can easily maintain a minimum six-foot distance from one another at all times, except as required to complete the Essential Business activity; “Stage 2” page 14

Call the Chamber Today or Visit www.scottsvalleychamber.com

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / June 2020 / 11

Scotts Valley Chamber News

Mountain School Music and Little Mozarts Collaborate Together for Online Classes A s for everyone, it has been a bumpy ride since Little Mozarts 4 FUN transitioned our in-person group and private piano lessons online due to Shelter In Place rules. The LittleMozarts4Fun team embraced the new standards with instruments such as video conferencing and social media.

Their accent is to engage our lively students via laptops, ipads and loaned equipment if needed. They miss the inperson exchanges with students and eagerly anticipate when everyone can return to regular lessons.

Little Mozarts moved quickly to transfer students onto online sessions. Thanks to our established harmonious teacher-student relationships, the children adjusted smoothly with a few distractions such as playful siblings and pets. In a smooth transition, they were pleasantly surprised by how technologically savvy a 5-year old could operate and problem-solve technology.

Parents are grateful that they simply sign their children on to the lesson and then they are free to do their own thing. The biggest take-away from this interlude is that kids need to interact with their peers. LittleMozarts4Fun is committed to finding the bridge between safe teaching and social learning.

They have announced their new summer group class.

A new outdoor studio is was built to teach small groups of 3-4 students within proper social distancing guidelines. A transparent cube-like structure with visibility between students will let them socialize and learn safely. Currently, we are ready to begin our

lessons outdoors. As restrictions ease, we will transition back into the studio.

Our soonest upcoming class is June 22 for the Piano Presto Summer Session for 7-10s. Call 831439-9125, email: littlemozarts4fun@ gmail.com or www. littlemozarts4fun.com.

We banded together with our colleagues at Mountain Music School to offer an online music class for under 5s to support busy parents. Children and parents are loving this new group!

At Mountain Music School, their goal is not to just give music lessons,

Online Music Classes for Children under 5

but to inspire our students and our community through this rich and diverse language.

Mountain Music School’s mission is to sharpen minds through music. Time and time again, music has been proven to improve the lives of those who engage with it.

Be it fine motor skills, personal discipline, improved concentration, or even working well with others, music is so much more than just a hobby. It is an expression of life well lived.

Their philosophy is that the best music comes from people that are passionate about learning and playing music. Every single one of the teachers are world-class performers who have a love for teaching

students and helping them reach their highest potential.

More than that, they seek to be role models to their students, hoping to inspire a love for music and for the community in which we live in. They want their students to become as passionate about music as they are because everyone knows how music can improve the world!

Our soonest upcoming class is June 22 for the Piano Presto Summer Session for 7-10s. To register for classes please call 831-439-9125, email: littlemozarts4fun@gmail.com or www. littlemozarts4fun.com.

••• Mountain Music School: Kings Village Shopping Center 831-201-9605 Nextdoor to Scotts Valley Chamber!

Local Scotts Valley Business Makes KN95 Masks Available

T

he owner of Flex Education, Rui Li, has a source to obtain KN95 masks and she would like to share that resource with the community. These are high quality respirator masks.

Her cost for these masks is $2.70 each and she would like to pass that offer along to anybody in our community who needs them. She can also order masks in bulk if you are business that requires them for essential employees.

12 / June 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

If you are in need of masks for yourself or your employees, please feel free to contact Rui Li of Flex Education, located at 216-b Mt. Hermon Road, in the

Kings Village Shopping Center.

••• Rui Li can be reached at 831-406-7472 or email her at liruirui@gmail.com.

Scotts Valley Chamber News

Armitage Wines: Finding New Ways to Keep The Wine Flowing!

B randon Armitage of Armitage Wines moved quickly to adapt to the temporary closure of his tasting room in March. As state and county guidelines are coming into place, they are preparing to reopen the tasting room

with new protocols for social distancing between parties, outdoor seating, guest limits, and more. Soon to open again in June.

Complimentary deliveries to homes and businesses in Santa Cruz County, as

well as complimentary shipping within California will continue.

Armitage produces highly acclaimed Pinot Noir grown on the historic Heart O’ the Mountain estate in Scotts Valley, famously owned by Alfred Hitchcock.

Other offerings include a heavenly Santa Cruz Mountain Chardonnay and a crisp, dry Rosé of Pinot Noir.

Armitage will deliver to your doorstep locally, and for case orders will deliver to surrounding counties. for the continued support by his community. Customers can order on the website, by phone, or by email. Curbside pickup hours at the Aptos tasting room are Fridays from 4pm-6pm.

New for Armitage is the White label series, an excellent Pinot Noir and Chardonnay produced for a few select large retailers, including the Santa Cruz Costco.

Acknowledging the need for a more economical choice during these uncertain times, these wines will retail for about $25 and are an excellent choice and representative of Armitage’s much lauded, classic style of winemaking.

You can also find Armitage wines at many local restaurants and wine shops, and special vintages are released exclusively to members of the Armitage Allocation Club.

Says Brandon, “I do this all for the pure love of making wine. There’s nothing else I’d rather do and nowhere else I’d want to be.”

••• Armitage Wines is small, family-owned winery producing 1200 cases a year of Santa Cruz Mountain Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Visit the tasting room in Aptos at 105c Post Office Drive, Aptos. Call 831-708-2874 — Current hours are only for curbside pickup every Friday 4-6pm. Follow on social media for updates and specials.

We remain open even under difficult circumstances.

Disasters create a tremendous amount of stress.

In this time of uncertainty, Edward Jones is ready to help. If your Edward Jones office is temporarily closed, please call our Client Relations department at 800-511-5768.

MKT-5959D-A

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / June 2020 / 13

Scotts Valley Chamber News

MANAGE YOUR WATER USE FROM HOME

SV Water District Declares Stage 2 Scotts Valley Water District’s new i-Meter program features a web portal to help you monitor water usage, be more efficient and save money.

No Surcharges Are Planned Due to COVID-19 Pandemic • View hourly usage history and set up alerts for high usage.

• Compare consumption to similar households.

O

• Explore water-saving ideas.

n Monday, the Scotts Valley Water trict money-saving service are • Sign up for personalized tips.has remained relatively District announced the district since the start of the pandemic, • Access statement steady and apply for rebates. has established Stage commercial, industrial and institutional water use 2 Water Supply Conditions, declined by 40 percent and is following a declaration by the expected to remain low for the Board of Directors based on foreseeable future. data indicating a relatively dry SIGN UP: svwd.org/i-meters “Although the dry rain year has an year — Scotts Valley received about 50% of impact on groundwater levels, we have its normal rainfall.

Typically, such a declaration would experienced an unexpected reduction in activate drought surcharges, as well as a water demand due to the novel coronaneed to reduce water demand by 15 percent to reduce the draw on the groundwater aquifers. However, due to reduced water “Stage 2” from page 11 demand caused by the COVID-19 pan• Where lines may form at a facility, demic, the board chose not to implement marking six-foot increments at a systemwide water restrictions or specific minimum, establishing where indidemand reductions. viduals should stand to maintain The district’s “Water Shortage Continadequate social distancing; gency Plan” stipulates a four-stage demand • Providing hand sanitizer, soap and reduction plan, with the amount of rainfall water, or effective disinfectant at or in a given year or series of years being the near the entrance of the facility and basis for defining the stages of action. in other appropriate areas for use by The district has experienced a the public and employees, and in locanoticeable decline in water demand since tions where there is high-frequency the COVID-19 shelter-in-place order was employee interaction with members issued by the County of Santa Cruz health of the public (e.g. cashiers); officer on March 16. While residential • Providing for contactless payment water use in the Scotts Valley Water Dis-

virus,” District Manager Piret Harmon said. “We are pleased we can maintain the same level of high-quality, reliable water service to our customers without adding the stress of additional costs or restrictions during this unprecedented time.”

District crews have upgraded approximately 85 percent of all water meters to new intelligent meters (i-Meters), providing the vast majority of customers the ability easily view, understand and manage their water

use through the WaterSmart customer web portal on the District website.

The district continues to encourage the efficient use of water, asking customers to limit outdoor irrigation to three days a week before 10 a.m. or after 5 p.m.

The district also offers several rebates for installation of water-efficient devices and landscaping. Learn more: https:// w w w. s v w d . o rg / b e - w a t e r- e ff i c i e n t / water-efficiency-program.

systems or, if not feasible to do so, then providing for disinfecting of all payment portals, pens, and styluses after each use; • Regularly cleaning and disinfecting other high-touch surfaces; • Posting a sign at the entrance of the facility and work area informing all employees and customers that they should: avoid entering the facility if they have a cough or fever; • Maintain a minimum six-foot distance from one another; sneeze and cough into one’s elbow; not shake hands or engage in any unnecessary physical contact; and • Adhering to additional social distancing guidance recommended by

the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at: https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/ guidance-business-response.html.

For industry-specific guidance related to dine-in restaurants, please go to covid19. ca.gov/pdf/guidance-dine-in-restaurants. pdf. For industry-specific guidance related to babershops/hair salons, please go to covid19. ca.gov/pdf/guidance-hair-salons.pdf.

For local information on COVID-19, go to www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus, call 211 or text “COVID19” to 211211. Residents may also call (831) 454-4242 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., seven days a week.

MANAGE YOUR WATER USE FROM HOME

COMING SOON Large Renovated 2-story 2BR/2BA Home with a garage, large deck and fenced yard on Morrissey in Seabright area of Santa Cruz.

Scotts Valley Water District’s new i-Meter program features a web portal to help you monitor water usage, be more efficient and save money.

Charming Updated 2BR/2BA Home with a large yard, deck, fenced yard & carport on Upper Road in Boulder Creek.

• View hourly usage history and set up alerts for high usage.

Sunny 2BR/1BA Home plus an office on large lot with ample room to garden, patio and 1-car garage on Lincoln Way in Felton.

• Compare consumption to similar households.

• Explore water-saving ideas.

• Sign up for personalized money-saving tips.

• Access statement and apply for rebates.

SIGN UP: svwd.org/i-meters

Advertise in the Scotts Valley Chamber Newsletter

14 / June 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

COMMUNITY NEWS

EDD Hiring 1,800 Temp Workers O n May 27, the Employment Development Department announced plans to hire 1,800 new temporary full-time and hourly staff over the next several weeks from throughout California to bolster the delivery of critical unemployment benefits to workers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The workers will be trained in call center operations, processing UI claims, and analyzing documents from claimants and employers to make wage determinations for benefits.

The effort is being done in partnership with CalHR, the CHP, and the California Correctional Health Care Services department who are helping with screening applicants and conducting interviews.

“This urgent hiring effort will further enhance the department’s ability to process an unprecedented surge of benefit claims, while offering an opportunity for employment to Californians during this difficult time,” said EDD Director Sharon Hilliard.

Teleworking options are available, as well as in office locations throughout the state. Available positions include: • Employment Program Representative — requires college education and public contact experience to

process claims and assist customers, including over the phone and off-phone work.

• Office Technician — requires clerical skills to assist customers over the phone.

• Financial services classifications — including Tax Auditor and Accountant 1 Specialist, Accounting Technician, and Accounting Officer positions requiring professional accounting coursework along with up to three years of accounting/auditing experience. These positions are in Sacramento.

The EDD receives federal funding to administer the unemployment insurance program in California based on workload. With the surge from record low unemployment

in February to record high just two months later, the EDD is receiving increased federal funding to support the staffing needed for keeping up with this historic demand for unemployment benefits.

The mass hiring comes on the heels of a push to process claims throughout the Memorial Day weekend by 700 volunteer unemployment insurance and redirected staff. They focused on claims that arrived via paper and those where the identity of the claimant couldn’t be verified through the state’s data matching systems. Such claims cannot be auto processed and demand staff handling.

As May 16, the EDD processed over 5.1 million claims for unemployment benefits and paid more than $16.1 billion in benefits to workers in need since the pandemic began.

The new hires will join about 1,200 current trained staff involved in processing Unemployment Insurance claims, as well as more than 1,300 staff who have been redeployed from other state positions, and 500 temporary vendor staff, all who are helping to expand capacity to serve customers until state hires can be made. In addition, some vendors are assisting the EDD to optimize call center operations to serve customers.

Applicants who possess bilingual skills including Spanish, Cantonese, Vietnamese, and Mandarin are encouraged to apply. Application packages may be submitted electronically through www.CalCareers.ca.gov. n

Low Rates Plus 90 Days of No Auto Payments

*

when you refinance from another financial institution.

831.479.6000 • www.bayfed.com • 888.4BAYFED * First payment will be deferred for 90 days. Offer available to applicants with a 640 or higher credit score (Experian Fico V9 Auto Score) on the refinance of a 2010 or newer vehicle currently financed at another financial institution. Refinances of current Bay Federal loans are not eligible for this offer. Loan application must be received before August 31, 2020, in order to qualify for the deferred first payment. Interest will continue to accrue from date of loan disbursement and becomes due once payments begin. All loans are subject to credit approval and income verification per Bay Federal Credit Union lending requirements. Credit Union membership required. Minimum loan amount is $10,000. For more information, visit any Bay Federal Credit Union branch or call us at 831.479.6000 or 888.4BAYFED, option 3.

Terms subject to change without notice. This offer may not be combined with any other offer. Other restrictions may apply.

Federally Insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / June 2020 / 15

I

COMMUNITY NEWS

Scotts Valley High: Art Night Memories

t seems like a world away now.

On March 6, before the COVID-19 coronavirus changed everything, Scotts Valley High School hosted its annual Art Night showcasing the work of hundreds of students.

Some of the young artists were in classes that are part of the International Baccalaureate curriculum.

The event organized by art teachers Craig Bowie and Emily Brandt brought hundreds of students and their proud parents together before anyone knew that they would be ordered to stay home and that social distancing would become a new way of life.

Here are some memories from that night. n Photos by Jondi Gumz

Art filled the walls of the Student Union.

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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

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www.WestWindmemoryCare.com RCFE License #435202516 16 / June 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Emily Dumont with her International Baccalaureate exhibition.

COMMUNITY NEWS

ABOVE: Art teachers Craig Bowie and Emily Brandt organized the exhibition.

LEFT: Graphic design of Seattle by Zelee Sharnee, 12th grader, using Adobe Illustrator BELOW: Student pianists entertain the crowd.

ABOVE: International Baccalaureate art student Maya Goertz’s 3-dimensional art.

LEFT: Clay art by International Baccalaureate art student Cooper Heredeen

“SLVWD” from page 7 The San Lorenzo Valley Water District is one of three member-agencies that make up the agency, along with the Scotts Valley Water District and the County of Santa Cruz.

The session examined the Santa Margarita Basin and its four primary aquifers: Santa Margarita aquifer, Monterey formation, Lompico aquifer and Butano aquifer. The session identified the unique characteristics of each aquifer and its particular set of users.

• The aquifer closest to the surface is the Santa Margarita. It is about 100 feet thick, on average, and is the most vulnerable to fluctuations in climate conditions. That means it recharges the fastest during periods of rainfall, but also depletes the most quickly during dry times or when lots of pumping occurs. The District and most private well owners draw water from this aquifer.

• The next aquifer down is the Monterey formation, which is not a true aquifer and a very few wells pump from it. It is a clay layer found in limited areas of the basin.

• The third layer down, the Lompico aquifer, is a main source of supply for local water districts. It is generally found around depths of 500-700 feet below the surface.

• Finally, the Butano aquifer is deepest and occurs at around 1,000 feet below the surface of the valley floor. Currently, only the Scotts Valley Water District extracts water from this aquifer.

The aquifers aren’t evenly deposited

throughout the basin, according to Georgina King of Montgomery & Associates, who gave the April presentation.

Rather, the underground bowl-shaped basin supports varying levels and depths of each aquifer in different areas. The deeper layers are exposed to the land surface in the upgradient of hillsides, which are the principal recharge zone for these aquifers.

Evaluating groundwater levels is one of the state-required elements of the Sustainable Management Criteria in the Groundwater Sustainability Plan. The Santa Margarita Groundwater Agency board must set minimum thresholds for groundwater levels in the basin as well as measurable objectives to ensure the basin’s sustainability. The board provided input on the significant and unreasonable conditions that will be used to develop a draft qualitative statement for board review.

The Santa Margarita board meeting on April 23 was conducted via all-remote, web- and phone-based access due to the Santa Cruz County Shelter-in-Place Order response to the coronavirus outbreak. The agenda allowed time for public comment and participation on each agenda item.

If you are interested in learning more about the SMGWA or the District’s involvement visit www.https://smgwa. org/. The next SMGWA Board of Directors meeting will be May 28 at 5:30 p.m. The agenda and any supplementary materials will be made available www.https:// smgwa.org/ as they are generated by staff.

Due to the circumstances regarding the ongoing shelter-in-place orders, all agency meetings will be held in a remote-access format until further notice. n Map: http://www.midcountygroundwater. org/mid-county-basin-area/interactive-map

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / June 2020 / 17

Your June Horoscope Times Publishing Group, Inc. Cancer (June 22-July 22)

You’re all over the place emotionally as June begins, so there’s no reason to make any hasty decisions right now. It might not seem like it, but you’ve got a lot more time than you realize to make the changes you want to make. Your motivation is waning mid-month, making procrastination an attractive alternative to actually putting in any hard work. Is there a reason you’re so tired, or are you just trying to avoid the inevitable? The month closes out with you in an “I can do anything I put my mind to” vibe. If there’s something you thought would be difficult, now is the time to tackle it.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 23)

The month begins with you ready to embrace new people and relationships. Still, a lot of your focus will be on the past. This is your chance to use the lessons you’ve learned to help propel you to a more successful future. Plans are falling through mid-month, especially concerning family. This isn’t an ideal time to plan a reunion, especially if a lot of relatives have to travel to attend. Late in June, a relationship that went sideways seems to be back on track. This is a good time for apologies if you were at fault, and it’s also to forgive someone who hurt you. It’s hard to taste something sweet with the lingering bitterness still in your mouth.

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sep. 22)

A combination of warmth and charisma fills you as the month begins. Making new connections may be unexpected, but will be welcome. You should be able to feel your way out of any unfortunate situations you find yourself in mid-June. When things don’t go as planned, it’s nice to have your instincts to rely on.

You experience an amazing energy boost late in the month, so don’t let it go to waste. Finish outstanding projects so you can move on to bigger and better things.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 23)

Erratic energy surrounding you early in June can be a problem, so wait for it to settle before making any major decisions. In times when you can’t really control what happens to you, it’s how you react that matters most. There are mysteries mid-month that you can’t quite solve, and the harder you try to see something, the fuzzier it becomes. It might be best to just relax and wait for this frustrating time to pass. Your love life and financial world are back in forward motion as the month comes to a close. If you’ve hit pause on either of these areas recently, it’s time to get some positive momentum going again.

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Your carefully laid plans are being scattered to the wind as the month begins. It all feels exciting and maybe even a little dangerous to not know what’s coming next, doesn’t it? Clarity is not coming easily mid-month.

In fact, you’re more confused now than you were before. Luckily, your intuition can guide you out of a jam if you’re confident enough to listen to it. You are filled with some powerful energy as June comes to a close.

If you’ve been putting something off, this is the time to power through it and get the job done. Doing things entirely on your own terms leaves you with little regret.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

You feel a full range of emotions early in the month. Your impulses might not lead you down the best path right now, so avoid doing anything or making major decisions that might have long-term consequences. You’re feeling overly sensitive mid-June, when the inevitable things go wrong (like technology, communication, and travel). Luckily, you can use intuitive energy to feel your way out of trouble this time around. Late in the month, you are able to see things how they really are and not just how you wish they could be. Yes, it might be shocking at first, but in the long run it’s so much better to face reality than to try to live in a dream world forever.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20)

June opens with your warm, inviting nature attracting potential new friends and lovers. You also have a knack for inviting new opportunities into your life to accumulate wealth. This isn’t the time to be greedy, though. There’s enough to go around. Expect communication breakdowns with family members through the middle of the month. Just because you sent a text to your spouse, mom, or child doesn’t mean they received it. Remember, you can’t count on the things you usually can during this time. Late in the month, while love and money issues get back to “normal,” you might still feel like something is missing. Avoid making sudden movements. Wait until all things feel “normal” before deciding anything for sure.

Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb. 18)

The beginning of the month brings some very uncomfortable indecision. When you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place, there is no good option. Don’t waste your time or energy trying to solve a problem that has no solution. Your intuition helps guide you through some difficult parts mid-month. The confusion and fear that come from having to navigate a pathway alone at night are alarming, but you’ll be so much stronger when you come out the other side unharmed. Your take-charge attitude returns as June comes to a close. If you find yourself in a position of power, don’t be afraid to really stand up and take charge.

Pisces (Feb. 19-Mar. 20)

You have an aggressive, uber-competitive vibe early in the month, one that you aren’t really comfortable with.

Hanging out in the background and doing your thing usually works for you, but this introverted attitude makes you stand out in a bad way right now. This energy remains mid-June, clouding your judgment and taking away the comfort you get from escaping into your daydreams. You rarely like having to face the music, but it’s so loud that there’s no getting away from it. Late in the month, you can sense how life may go for a while. The good news is, what you’re facing doesn’t seem as harsh as you feared it would be.

Aries (March 21-April 20)

New connections made early in June might only be temporary, but they each serve a very specific and short-term beneficial purpose. Be careful when doing DIY projects mid-month, especially around the house. You have some excellent ideas about how to make changes without spending a lot of money, but cutting corners can lead to unforeseen complications. Relationships get back on track and start moving forward again late in the month, but you might not be entirely out of the woods just yet. It’s easy to forgive but much harder to forget. When you grab the initiative, you show everyone that you aren’t afraid to take on new challenges.

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

Hold off on making any major life changes early in the month. Your first instinct might be to go for it, but you know you’ll probably regret it in the morning. Your judgment remains hazy mid-month, but this time your dreams can be instrumental in making better choices. If you’ve been having a recurring dream or remembering certain symbolism each time you wake up, explore any potential meanings. Your eyes are opened even wider in the second half of June, exposing all of the dirty little things you’ve successfully swept under the rug lately.

Just because you knew this day would come doesn’t make you any more prepared for it.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

There’s a charismatic air about you as the month begins that makes you stand out from everyone else.

However, issues from the past could resurface to spoil some of your fun. Be open and honest and try not to let what’s already happened ruin what’s still to come. Something in the air could sabotage your plans mid-June You have to make home improvements or finish DIY projects around the house, and last-minute changes can be frustrating, but it’s better to go with the flow than stick with methods that clearly aren’t working. You are thinking quickly late in the month, which should help you make some very wise shortterm investments. Gather as much information as possible before you let a great financial opportunity pass you by.

•••

www.tpgonlinedaily.com 18 / June 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

COMMUNITY NEWS

In Memory of Jett Ramsey

Virtual Fundraiser Aims To Raise $80K

L

ocal real estate agency, the DeBernardo Team, has raised $20,000 of their $100,000 goal to remodel the well-used and much-beloved Hidden Beach Playground located in Aptos.

The DeBernardo Team is dedicating their efforts to raise the funding in tribute to Jett Ramsey, a 5-year-old who passed away from cancer in April during “Shelter in Place.”

Jett was the son of longtime Aptos residents Amy and Chris Ramsey and brother to Jack and Christian.

While overwhelmed with grief at the loss of Jett, the team has been humbled by the outpouring of love and support of the community to honor Jett’s battle against cancer.

Inspired by the community’s generosity and to celebrate Jett’s life and his impact upon all of us, the DeBernardo Team will host a virtual event on You Tube Live 5-6 p.m. June 11 to raise the final $80,000 for the playground. See youtu.be/iUKXxdxXOaM “We are going to cry, we are going to laugh, and we are going to make sure the new Hidden Beach Park Playground will be built so Jett’s memory and energy

lives on!” said Frank DeBernardo of the DeBernardo Team.

Mariah Roberts, executive director of County Park Friends said, “We are humbled to be a part of this outpouring of love for the Ramsey Family. We gather virtually now, so we can create a place that connects families for generations to come.” n ••• For more information: www.countypark friends.org/hiddenbeachplayground.html

Valley Churches Garden Tour Goes Virtual

T

By Lynn Robinson

he Valley Churches United annual area gardens and all donations directly garden tour has been cancelled for benefit the Valley Churches United food June 2020 due to the COVID-19 crisis. pantry, which serves the entire San Lorenzo This very popular fundraiser for the Valley, Scotts Valley and Bonny Doon nonprofit food pantry features unique and areas. Donate via Facebook, at vcum.org, spectacular private gardens rarely open send a check to Valley Churches United, to the public. While the gardens are not PO Box 367, Ben Lomond, CA 95005, or call available to visit in person until next year, 831-336-8258. n a unique online virtual tour of five featured gardens provides an opportunity to view the visions and passions of the garden hosts and their creations.

To view the virtual tour, go to vcum.org or to Valley Churches United on Facebook.

Save May 22, 2021 for next year’s tour.

This fundraiser virtual tour features One of the gardens featured in the virtual tour fundraiser. amazing Scotts Valley

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Intention Matters to Your Health

T

he coronavirus lockdowns have made people hit the pause button on life.

What’s next?

Prepare to raise your game and create a new reality with intention. The current story is fundamentally about finding your stability, your inner core. Emerging from the pandemic is going to take grit, courage, and a new set of tools.

When I began my inquiry into the role of the acupuncture system’s subtle energies for health, I quickly discovered an integral aspect: Intention. Defined

by Merriam Webster dictionary, intention is what one intends to do or bring about. As a concept, intention is attention directed to an object of knowledge. It is focused thought.

Stanford University’s Emeritus professor Dr. William A. Tiller discovered it is possible to change materials like water by consciously holding a clear intention to do so. This is very exciting. Even more exciting is the fact that you can activate your intention and “pump up” your supplements, food, water, and much more. You’re mobilizing your remarkable tool intuitive tool.

In investigating the power of intention, Tiller’s research reached into laws of nature. All life is governed by the second law of thermodynamics. This says that the natural state of matter is randomness and disorder. Tiller’s research showed that focused intention increases order and coherence. Intention is like a laser light.

Laser-like intention can boost immune health, be a powerful defense against

By Nisha Manek, MD, FACP, FRCP (UK)

illness, and coheres your body’s acupuncture energy system. Every intention can have a stabilizing effect around which reality can re-gather.

The truth is, it’s accessible. The first thing to do once you read this column is to be willing to try it. Get a pen and paper. For five minutes, clear your time. Write down your wish for optimal health and your anxieties. This puts you in touch with your inner feelings and experiences.

An essential part of the process is that intention is written down. There is something magical about writing things down. Why is writing effective?

In my experience, the action of writing says something about the relationship between intention – a creative mental aspect – and the physical act of writing. There’s something about holding the piece of paper, about the thought you’ve put into it. The time it took you to write, paying attention to your wishes, is a form of applied love. Once on paper, you become familiar with your inner positions and attitudes.

Surrender and let go of your resistance.

You may be surprised at how quickly you become adept at it. Establish a routine and keep a notebook where you write down your daily intentions.

Once you have written your intention, come back to it after some time, and revise it. Take time to discover yourself. When doubt arises, notice it. Treat doubt like a pet or a toy such as your favorite teddy bear. Put the teddy bear aside while you write your intention. Intention is made powerful by the removal of doubts, fears, and inhibitions.

With the removal of negativity, dynamic forces are unloosed, so that what were once impossible dreams now become actualized goals.

Read your intention and hold it in mind. Then let it go. This is a secret. To surrender it and all outcomes.

The mechanism of

surrender is of great practical benefit. It follows the dictum of “Know thyself.”

Practicing intention in my life has reshaped my world view as a doctor. This is a skill I routinely teach my patients so they can take charge of their health, release fear, and thrive with the uncertainties of life.

You can write that your supplements be beneficial to your body’s cells and immune system, and the nutrition is assimilated effortlessly. You may desire

optimal functioning in the emotional, mental, and spiritual levels of your life.

Conscious intention will lead to a deeper understanding of what you are. You can open new vistas and change your life. n ••• Dr. Nisha Manek is an integrative rheumatologist and an alumnus of Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota. She is the author of Bridging Science and Spirit: The Genius of William A. Tiller’s Physics and the Promise of Information Medicine.

Visit her at www.nishamanekmd.com.

Tony Winners

ACROSS

1. “A Visit from St. Nicholas” beginning 5. Clock std.

8. U-____ 12. *Webber’s “Evita” collaborator 13. Away from wind 14. Boy Scout rank 15. Picnic invaders 16. Digestive aid 17. Change, as in the Constitution 18. *Like Tony Awards 2020 20. Entry document 21. Fill with spirits 22. 10 decibels 23. *”Kiss Me, Kate” composer/lyricist

26. Sound of leaves in wind 29. Before, archaic 30. Admirer 33. “My bad” 35. Garments 37. Barbie’s beau 38. Annoy a bedfellow 39. Result of too many drinks 40. Type of tunic 42. F in FWIW 43. Brown’s beagle 45. *M in “M. Butterfly” 47. Bar association 48. “Mack the ____” 50. *Tony winner David ____ Pierce 52. *Musical with the most wins, with The 56. *Jellicles’ cries 57. Vietnam’s neighbor 58. Flu symptom 59. Pond buildup

10. Longer forearm bone 11. Bulb type 13. “All ____!”

14. Roof overhang 19. Humble requests 22. Pesky, clingy plant 23. Cribbage pieces 24. Un-written exams DOWN 25. Old episode 1. Catch-22, e.g.

26. *”La Bohéme,” 2. Brown bagger reimagined 3. *Before and after 27. Shower accessory intermission 28. Erasable program4. Final six lines of a mable read only sonnet memory 5. Sparkle 31. Thumbs-up 6. More than a scuffle 32. Gridiron official, for 7. Like a ball ready for a short drive 34. Blood fluids 8. *Musical with most 36. *Coveted destination nominations 38. Mix-up 9. *Tony nominee, “Rock 40. Typically has April of ____” 15th as deadline 60. Sunrise point 61. “Just ____ ____” 62. *4-time winner Tom Stoppard’s output 63. Tap choice 64. Tallest volcano in Europe

41. In the thick of 44. Falstaffian in body 46. Base of the decimal system 48. Cattle enclosure in African village 49. Pirate’s “necklace” 50. *Setting of Tony winner ‘Hadestown’ 51. Vinyasa workout 52. #19 Down, sing.

53. *The Grand Slam of showbusiness, acr.

54. The Colosseum, today 55. Pura ____, or pure silk 56. Atlas page © Statepoint Media

Answers on 23 »

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / June 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

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. book sale. Fill up a shopping bag with books for 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.

Guild of America meets on the third Monday of every month, except June and December. Meetings are free to attend. All are welcome.

other survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and 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) 425-4030 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 to be WomenCARE ARM-in-ARM support group for women our guest at our monthly luncheon. You’ll meet kindred with advanced, recurrent and metastatic cancers. spirits, have a fine lunch and learn something new from Meets weekly Mondays & Tuesdays, with a separate a top notch guest speaker. meeting every First and Third Tuesday every month. Cost: $18. RSVP at 479-7096 Weekdays 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 5:15-6:30pm, Calvary Episcopal Church, Parish Hall, 532 through the journey of Cancer — from diagnosis to 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 We specifically focus on recovering from debting on well from surgery. We’ll address nausea, low energy, 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 Eventbrite — 7 –9 p.m., St. Stephan’s Lutheran Church, 2500 Soquel Ave., Tuesdays & Wednesdays Wellness on the Cancer Journey or call 831-254-3270 to Santa Cruz SURVIVORS SUPPORT GROUPS RSVP. Address given upon registration receipt.

The Santa Cruz County chapter of the Embroiderers Monarch Services offers a safe space to meet

20 / June 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

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

T

COVID-19 SURVEY

imes Publishing Group, Inc. is asking our readers to respond to this survey to gather information on coronavirus disease COVID-19 and social distancing behavior from our community to share with our policymakers.

To return the survey, cut it out and mail it to us at Times Publishing Group, Inc., 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003, or type it into an e-mail and send it to info@cyber-times. com. You can also find the survey online at https://tpgonlinedaily.com/survey/.

Please only fill out the survey once.

••• On a scale of 1-5, 1 being NO WAY How comfortable would you feel would I ever and 5 being ABSOLUTELY feel getting your haircut? comfortable, rate the following: No masks?

5 4 3 2 1 How comfortable do you feel about If your hairdresser/barber wore a mask? getting tested?

5 4 3 2 1 5 4 3 2 1 If you and your HD/barber wore a mask?

How comfortable do you feel going 5 4 3 2 1 to the grocery store?

Do you work at or own a business With a mask? affected by COVID-19?

5 4 3 2 1 Yes q How comfortable would you feel No q going to the beach — to hang out and Do you have a pre-existing condition? relax, appropriately distanced from (Such as heart disease, diabetes, asthma) strangers?

Yes q With a mask?

No q 5 4 3 2 1 Prefer not to say q How comfortable would you feel sitting and eating at a restaurant With a mask?

5 4 3 2 1 How comfortable would you feel going to a bar for a drink?

With a mask?

5 4 3 2 1 How comfortable would you feel going to church — appropriately distanced from others With a mask?

5 4 3 2 1 How comfortable would you be going into a retail store to browse and shop With a mask?

5 4 3 2 1

What age group are you in?

18-35 q 36-50 q 51-65 q 65+ q Gender Male Female

q q

Where do you live?

Aptos Capitola Soquel Scotts Valley Watsonville Santa Cruz Locally, not listed here

q q q q q q q

Sundays OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS MEETING 4 - 5 pm, Ben Lomond Community Library, 9525 Mill St., Ben Lomond Do you have a problem with compulsive over- or Fridays undereating? Anorexia? Bulimia? Compulsive NAR-ANON SCOTTS VALLEY 6:30 p.m., Camp Recovery Center (Bison Center Room), 3192 exercising? You are not alone. Drop into a free, friendly OA 12-Step meeting with the solution. All Glen Canyon Road, Scotts Valley. are welcome!

Nar-Anon is a twelve step support group for families and friends of addicts. There are no dues or fees to join. For information on other meetings in Santa Cruz County: www. santacruzoa.org/meetings Just come to a meeting. You will hear others, who are going through similar problems, talk about how they NAR-ANON SANTA CRUZ cope and find recovery.

To locate additional times and locations of meetings, please go 6:30 p.m., Sutter Maternity & Surgery Center (Sutter Room), 2900 Chanticleer Avenue, Santa Cruz to our website at www.nar-anon.org.

Nar-Anon is a twelve step support group for families and friends of addicts. There are no dues or fees to join.

DROP-IN GRIEF SUPPORT Just come to a meeting. You will hear others, who are 12-1 pm, Hospice of Santa Cruz County, two locations: going through similar problems, talk about how they 940 Disc Dr., SV • 85 Nielson St., Watsonville Hospice of Santa Cruz County is offering a cope and find recovery. drop-in grief support group for adults grieving To locate additional times and locations of meetings, please go the death of a family member or a friend. This to our website at www.nar-anon.org. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / June 2020 / 21

Business Guide

FEATURED COLUMNIST

A Path to Reopening

A

!

TO ADVERTISE IN THE BUSINESS GUIDE SECTION

call our offices 831.688.7549

www.tpgonlinedaily.com 22 / June 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

s we head into the third month of sheltering in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is growing pressure for our County to reopen many economic and social sectors.

Believe me, I hope we can restore as many businesses, services and other activities as possible — with new safety measures and protocols — in coming weeks and months.

As a County Supervisor, I continue to support a cautious, balanced approach that puts public health first as we reduce restrictions, which I believe we can do without compromising our strong response to the novel coronavirus.

We are far from winning the battle, and it will require a great deal more patience, cooperation and learning before we see the end of this.

Recent clusters of new cases in South County caused by large gatherings are a reminder how quickly the virus can spread when folks come into contact in ways that are either prohibited by the health order or are otherwise not safe.

That said, people’s livelihoods, physical wellness and mental health are equally as important as reducing the risk of disease transmission — of which we have otherwise done an excellent job here — and now we

By Bruce McPherson, Fifth District Supervisor

have a path for opening up.

On May 26, Santa Cruz County Health Officer Dr. Gail Newel issued a new health order that allows for activities outlined in the State’s early Stage 2 process of recovery and prepares the County to follow future State action.

The order allows office workspaces, in-store retail, religious services and cultural ceremonies, manufacturing, limited personal services, protests and outdoor museums to resume, though social distancing and face coverings requirements remain in effect.

Further, the Board of Supervisors on May 29 approved Dr. Newel’s request to the State to advance into late Stage 2 activities, such as opening dine-in restaurants and hair salons, sooner than the State’s overall move to do so.

Counties can only move as quickly as the State allows though State action is happening at an increasingly fast pace.

Understandably, many of you will have questions about how to interpret the changes in both the State and Local guidance. I encourage you to visit the State and County’s COVID-19 recovery websites to track the changes at covid19.ca.gov/ roadmap/ and santacruzhealth.org/ coronavirus.

A key part of our local recovery will be tourism. It is a vitally important part of our economy, but also can pose a public health threat

when thousands of visitors come from other counties with higher infection rates — or even other states for that matter — to enjoy our coastline, forests and open spaces.

It can also cause crowding, illegal parking and other enforcement challenges that tax our sheriff’s and police departments and rightly upset our residents.

Under Dr. Newel’s May 26 order, which expires July 1, beach closures will remain in effect from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., as are certain prohibitions on lodging.

However, because we know visitors will still come, we must be diligent about following the guidelines we are all quite familiar with now, including staying home if you’re ill, maintaining a minimum six-feet of social distancing, wearing face coverings in public other than while recreating outside, and washing our hands thoroughly and often.

As always, I want to thank our community for persevering together through this unprecedented period, especially as we see some aspects of life reopening while others remain closed. Not to mention, the cancelled community events, digital graduations and other modified social and recreational activities. n ••• Please keep up to date on our local response and recovery by visiting the websites mentioned above, call 211 or text “COVID19” to 211211. Residents may also reach our COVID-19 Call Center at 831-454-4242 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., seven days a week.

SCCAS Featured Pet

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Nature Gets Too Much Credit V

By Tony Tomeo

M

Big Brother and Little Brother

crossword on 19 »

eet Charlie (A259815) and Norbert (A268782) — a special pair of adoptable cats looking for their forever home.

Charlie, now about a year old, was very anti-social when he wasdropped off at the shelter at approximately four months old. He was placed with one of our experienced fosters to learn that life is not so scary, and slowly but surely made strides.

Charlie needs to get used to new people, but is friendly (on his own terms) once he warms up, and is happiest when he is hanging out, snuggling and/or playing with other cats.

Recently, Norbert was brought to the shelter as a four-week-old stray kitten.

He was social, outgoing, and ready to take on the world but he needed some time to grow big and strong, so he went to the same foster home as Charlie, and the rest is history.

Norbert has become Charlie’s constant companion. Through their friendship, both boys have blossomed.

We would love for Norbert and Charlie to be adopted as a pair for both their sakes; Norbert adores Charlie and Charlie is a much happier, more confident, and relaxed cat in Norbert’s presence.

Their ideal forever home will be with cat-savvy humans who are willing to give lots of time, space, and tasty treats to make Charlie feel comfortable in the new environment. Charlie and Norbert could be your instant cat family or they could join an existing playful, social cat (or 2). A home without children would be best.

The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is doing adoptions by appointment and you can even submit your adoption application online! Call 831-454-7200 or visit www.scanimalshelter.org for more information! 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.

Watsonville Location: 580 Airport Blvd, Watsonville, CA 95076 Hours: CURRENTLY CLOSED SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182

egetation makes people feel closer to nature. It is, after all, what most of us expect to see out in the wild. Most vegetation that is observed in forests and undeveloped areas really is natural. Much of the associated insects and wildlife are natural as well. Such flora and fauna know how to survive within their respective ecosystems. They can not rely on any unnatural intervention from anyone.

Naturalized exotic (non-native) species proliferate only because they are adapted to similar environmental conditions. A lack of pathogens that afflicted them within their natural ranges is a major advantage for most of them. Nonetheless, they are unnatural components of what is commonly considered to be nature. Most naturalized exotic species actually interfere significantly with nature.

Vegetation and associated wildlife that inhabits synthetic landscapes is very different from that which lives out in nature.

Only some of the vegetation has potential to naturalize. Even less is native. Almost all of it is reliant on artificial intervention, particularly irrigation, for survival. Associated wildlife is reliant on the survival of the reliant vegetation. Landscapes accommodate. Nature does not.

With few exceptions, landscapes that emulate nature are impractical. Landscapes within forests are some of those few exceptions that might need no more than what the forests provide. Even in such situations, combustible vegetation and structurally deficient trees should be cleared away from homes. In California, nature is innately combustible. It is messy and potentially dangerous too.

Most urban landscapes of California would still be dreadfully bleak if limited to natural components. Both San Jose and Los

Tony Winners © Statepoint Media

So much of nature is unnatural.

Angeles are naturally chaparral regions.

They were formerly inhabited by sparsely dispersed trees on scrubby grasslands.

Now, relatively abundant vegetation in both regions is more appealing, and improves urban lifestyles, but is nothing like what nature intended.

Nature is simply inadequate for what is expected of urban landscapes of California.

•••

‘Sticky monkey flower’ sounds too silly.

Sticky monkey flower hat a silly name this is! Sticky monkey flower, Diplacus aurantiacus (or Mimulus aurantiacus), is native to a broad range of ecosystems of California and the Northern Coast of Baja California. It is famously happy in situations that are too rocky or sandy for most other species. The resinous foliage really can be rather sticky during warm weather. The relevance to a monkey is a mystery.

Sticky monkey flower is more popular among hummingbirds and insects than anyone else. Those who welcome hummingbirds and insects into their garden happen to like it too. Honestly though, it might a bit too casual for refined landscapes. It works better in or on the outskirts of rustic gardens. If not already growing wild, cultivars and the straight species are available in some nurseries.

Bloom begins late in winter or early in spring, and might continue through summer, but is rarely impressively prolific.

The bisymmetrical and tubular flowers are about three quarters of an inch long.

Almost all are pastel orange, sort of like circus peanuts. Gold and yellow are uncommon. Supposedly, there are rare cultivars that bloom in red or white. Mature plants get more than three feet tall. n Horticulturist Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo.com

W

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / June 2020 / 23

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