Scotts Valley Times: November 2020

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

Times Publishing Group, Inc.

November 2020 • Vol 23 No. 11

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All SLV Water OK to Drink

On October 23, the San Lorenzo Valley Water District announced the cancellation of the “Do Not Drink-Do Not Boil” notice in all of its service areas, based on water quality samples collected since the Aug. 17 CZU Lighting Complex fires.

Full Story page 9

County Goes Orange; Businesses Reopen Full Story page 6

Camp Krem Needs Your Help To Rebuild

Target Coming To Scotts Valley

By Jondi Gumz On Oct. 14, when the city of Scotts Valley announced retail giant Target will take over the empty Kmart store, it was big news — warranting a report on KION-TV and sparking a flurry of comments on the social network NextDoor by locals and people in neighboring San Lorenzo Valley.

“I personally think this is good news,” wrote Connie

Denault, a real estate agent in Scotts Valley. “That shopping center needed a good strong anchor to provide the basic everyday items to a rather large geographic radius. Target has a way of hitting the basics like Kmart provided. It must be really hard to be a retailer right now.” ... continues on page 4

For 63 years, countless individuals poured their hearts and souls into making Camp Krem a wonderful place in the Santa Cruz Mountains for hundreds of children and adults with developmental disabilities — a place to nurture independence, encourage responsibility, and build lifelong relationships.

Full Story page 5

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No. 11

Volume 23

12

20

23

Table of Contents

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Cover Target Coming To Scotts Valley, By Jondi Gumz

5 6 8 9 10 18

Community News Camp Krem Needs Your Help To Rebuild County Goes Orange; Businesses Reopen, By Jondi Gumz Scotts Valley City Council Candidates All San Lorenzo Valley Water OK to Drink Another Record Median Home Price, By Jondi Gumz Operation Christmas Child Gears Up • Construction Suspends Library Curbside Service Til Nov. 9 • HICAP Offers Free Medicare Seminars 19 Highway 17 Overnight Lane Closures • R. Blitzer Gallery Reopens with Catamaran Show 20 ‘American Pickers’ to Film in California 23 Second Harvest Needs Your Help: Holiday Food & Fund Drive Kicks Off Nov. 5

Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Newsletter • Pages 11 – 14 11 Scotts Valley Community Award Nominations Open • Fresh Ideas to Build Your Santa Cruz County Businesses: Free Webinar • Thursday, November 12 — 6:00–7:00 pm via Zoom 12 The Circle of Gratitude, By Lynn Robinson, Executive Director Valley Churches United Missions • The Hot Pink Box — There’s Always Something Good Inside: Pre-order your Thanksgiving pies through November 16 • Letter from Mayor Randy Johnson 13 SVHS Green Team Launches Green a Business Certification Program, By Willa Reed • Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP) Resources for Businesses 14 Tam Communications Uses Music Videos to Educate

Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – Esoteric Astrology, By Risa D’Angeles

Featured Columnists 21 Pictures from the Past: Glenwood Highway, Photo Essay by Carolyn Swift 22 Fire Recovery: Permit Streamlining Ahead, By Bruce McPherson, Fifth District Supervisor

SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 23 – On the Runway: Fifi O’hara, Miss Fame, and Ru Paul

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COVER STORY Patrice Edwards Jondi Gumz

publisher editor

contributing writers Camisa Composti, Jondi Gumz, Lynn Robinson, Willa Reed, Risa D’Angeles, Carolyn Swift, Bruce McPherson 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, Brooke Valentine office coordinator Cathe Race distribution Bill Pooley, James Hudson

“Target” from page 1 Added Patty Walker of Ben Lomond, “I’m all for it, I hate going to 41st for stuff.”

Scotts Valley resident Roger Anderson commented, “Good news for SV tax base, I would think. Excellent news.”

Added Daryl Tempesta of Scotts Valley, “good location.”

Tempesta led the fight in 2007 when Target proposed to build a 143,000-squarefoot store with 57,000 square feet devoted to parking on 18 acres on La Madrona Drive across from his home in the Monte Fiore development. That project was projected to bring $489,000 in annual sales tax revenue to the city.

Target dropped the project in 2009 as the county, the state and the nation were sinking into a recession so deep it took years to recover.

Target spokeswoman Jill Lewis confirmed Target plans to open at the Scotts Valley Kmart, and promised more details “as we get closer to opening the store.”

Kmart in the Scotts Valley Square shopping center, 270 Mount Hermon Road, is 55,000 square feet, so it’s considerably smaller than what was proposed in 2007.

Kmart, owned by Sears since 2004, had struggled through the recession.

When the economy improved, Kmart

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.

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“The City has aimed for this exact retailer for years, with special focus after the closure of Kmart.”

— Derek Timm, Scotts Valley Vice Mayor

didn’t upgrade and wasn’t prepared for customers shopping online.

The Scotts Valley Kmart closed along with many others in February, prompting speculation on NextDoor about what might replace it.

Then the COVID-19 pandemic arrived locally, forcing non-essential businesses to close.

After Kmart closed, the Scotts Valley City Council appointed Vice Mayor Derek Timm, who owns Montalvo Homes & Estates, as the council lead on the city’s Kmart replacement strategy.

The city worked with commercial brokers and The Pratt Company, which owns the shopping center, to develop leads, even as Target was considered ideal for the space.

“The City has aimed for this exact retailer for years, with special focus after the closure of Kmart,” said Timm. “This presents an incredible opportunity for Scotts Valley and the Town Center vision, and is truly a game-changer for our City.”

City officials have worked for 25 years to

create a Town Center at the former Skypark airport site, now used for RV storage and a dog park with buildings vacated by Suburban Propane and AmeriGas still on the property.

The Town Center is envisioned as a mix of retail stores, housing and public amenities such as a town green. A series of developers has come and gone.

So far, the new development in the area has been completed by Scotts Valley local Corbett Wright working with builder Rob Stuart. It’s a drive-through Starbucks.

A mixed-use multi-tenant project called The Hanger is nearing completion.

The Hangar will have a tap room, a restaurant, essential services and child care – and more information is expected soon.

Kevin Pratt of The Pratt Company called Target a game-changer, saying, “It affects everything about the makeup of the center.”

He said mom-and-pop businesses – Togo’s, Earthwise Pet Supply, Scotts Valley Jewelers, Scotts Valley Cleaners – have kept the center going along with Food Trucks To Go on Thursday nights.

Pratt’s first question is whether Target will expand into the empty Payless Shoes space next to Kmart.

Next is what kind of remodel will happen. The Kmart building, which is 35 years old and owned by Kmart, needs a lot of work to meet today’s codes.

Pratt estimated a full remodel could cost $1.5 million. n ••• Cover Graphic: Target will be moving into the Kmart building, which closed in February.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Camp Krem Needs Your Help To Rebuild F or 63 years, countless individuals poured their hearts and souls into making Camp Krem a wonderful place in the Santa Cruz Mountains for hundreds of children and adults with developmental disabilities — a place to nurture independence, encourage responsibility, and build lifelong relationships.

Unfortunately, in August, the CZU August Lightning Complex Fires tore through Santa Cruz and Mateo counties, burning 86,000 acres, including the beloved Camp Krem in Boulder Creek.

Almost everything was destroyed — the cabins, the amphitheater, music pavilion, the dining hall, the arts & crafts building, the bell tower and the bathrooms, the John Lucchese Multi-Purpose Building — all gone.

Despite this heart-breaking loss, supporters say now is not the time for despair.

They say Camp Krem is so much more than the buildings that sat atop our beautiful mountain. They say Camp Krem is a feeling — our philosophies, our friendships and our community.

Work has begun on plans to rebuild, and any and all contributions are welcomed.

A recent end-of-camp photo from Camp Krem.

To rebuild the camp, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched with a goal of $1 million.

Funds will go to repair the driveway, which is unsafe, clean up the fire damage, protect the property from landslides and damage when the rains come, and provide campers with a Virtual Camp program in lieu of in-person events, due to COVID-19.

The Virtual Camp is vital to connect campers and their families and give them a sense of community. n ••• To support Camp Krem: • Visit https://charity.gofundme.com/ o/en/campaign/campkrem-project -phoenix.

• Visit campingunlimited.org, where the Klebanoff Cohen Fund is matching donations up to $50,000.

• Mail a check to Camping Unlimited, 102 Brook Lane, Boulder Creek CA 95006.

Courtesy of campingunlimited.org

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

COMMUNITY NEWS

County Goes Orange; Businesses Reopen

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By Jondi Gumz

ecause of a low rate of COVID-19 cases, Santa Cruz County moved up into the state’s Orange Tier Tuesday, giving breweries, bars, bowling alleys, climbing gyms and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk a chance to reopen with restrictions after months of shutdown.

Fruition Brewing, owned by David Purgason and Tallula Preston, plan to open their patio at the East Lake Village Shopping Center in Watsonville Saturdays from noon to 6 p.m.

“We are jumping for joy!” the Boardwalk Bowl posted on Facebook, noting many new health and safety protocols in place and getting positive comments in return.

The state guidelines allow rides to operate at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk but attendance is limited to 500 people from Santa Cruz County who buy tickets in advance—which means the amusement park is off limits to visitors from the San Francisco Bay Area and Central Valley.

The Orange Tier allows places of

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Kim Pursley, owner of Kalani Day Spa in Scotts Valley, hosts a ribbon-cutting Oct. 30 with the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce for her newly renamed spa. worship, restaurants, movies and museums at 50% capacity indoors, and wineries, dance studios, yoga studios, gyms, card rooms, bounce rooms and family enter-

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

tainment at 25%, with weddings up to 200 guests.

In Scotts Valley, Kissed by an Angel Wines posted on Facebook that the Orange Tier allows 14 people inside in addition to outside seating.

Perfect Union in Scotts Valley already shifted workout classes outdoors under canopies, with lights and walls for the canopies as the weather changes. The latest addition is a battery-operated outdoor speaker in case of a power outage.

Kim Pursley, owner of Kalani Day Spa in Scotts Valley, reopened when the county was in the Red Tier and now has a staff of 12.

“We’re making it work,” she said, explaining how she expanded the time between appointments from 90 minutes to two hours for sterilization and to reduce cross-traffic. The spa was known as Exhale, and she changed the name due to a copyright issue.

“We’re feeling good about where we are as a county,” said Santa Cruz County Health Officer Dr. Gail Newel Tuesday. “I want to give credit where credit is due, the community... following the guidelines of the state.”

On Tuesday, Santa Cruz County had 2,821 COVID-19 cases, including 207 active cases in the past two weeks, 3.5 cases per 100,000 people per day.

Previously the county had 4 or more new cases per 100,000 people per day, staying in the more restrictive Red Tier for much of September and most of October.

Heart-Breaking hile the pace of new cases has slowed dramatically, the death toll has risen to 19 at the hotspot in the county, Watsonville Post Acute Center.

That boosted the number of county deaths Friday to 26 overall.

Newel called the situation at the nursing home a “heartbreaking tragedy.”

Of the 19 deaths, 16 have been county residents and three were out-of-county residents.

Age and underlying health conditions are factors in COVID-19 mortality.

During the outbreak, 50 of the 74 residents and 21 staff at Watsonville Post Acute tested positive for COVID-19.

Newel said the outbreak had stabilized with no recent new infections and no current infected patients.

Gerald Hunter, the administrator at the nursing home, posted an update Oct. 19 on the facility’s website: “The facility staff has been true heroes in dealing with all of the difficulties and personal sadness associated with Covid-19.

W

COMMUNITY NEWS The facility has turned the corner and at this point in time we only have 2 active cases of Covid-19, one resident and one staff member. The staff is trying to reestablish normal routines. We anticipate new guidelines affecting visitation very soon from CDPH. Please note that effective today I am passing the Administrator torch to Rae Ann Radford an accomplished administrator who will lead the facility going forward.”

Radford has been administrator at Valley House Rehab in Santa Clara for three years. Before that, she was executive director at Kindred Nursing & Transitional Care in Santa Cruz, and administrator at Country Villa in Watsonville.

Another Factor? ewel was asked if anyone is checking Vitamin D levels for nursing home residents as studies in other countries show a correlation between Vitamin D deficiency and COVID-19 mortality.

She said low Vitamin D levels are associated with increased rates of some cancers, adding, “there has not been a clear delineation about the risk of a low Vitamin D with COVID infection but potentially that could be at risk.”

She acknowledged elders could be at greater risk because they are not outdoors as much and getting sunlight, which humans need to produce Vitamin D. For those who are concerned, “anyone can ask their primary care provider for a Vitamin D level (lab test) and you can have your Vitamin D level checked but that is not something at this time that we are routinely doing in our COVID patients.”

Asked about the impact of the Orange Tier on schools, Newel said there’s no difference from the Red Tier as along as surveillance testing of adult staff takes place.

Stanford Labs is setting up “pop-op” sites to test 25 percent of school staff because of an agreement made by the Santa Cruz County Office Education “so that hurdle has been met,” she said.

Most of the districts hope to open for a hybrid model of classroom and onlinelearning starting in January, she added.

Newel and Mimi Hall, director of the county Health Services Agency, remain concerned about Halloween gatherings potentially causing more infections.

The COVID-19 infection is most commonly spread by family, friends and partners, Newel said, advising everyone to wear masks, keep their interactions under 15 minutes cumulative over 24 hours and get tested “at the very first sign of illness.”

Stay outdoors, limit the gathering to

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two hours, and maintain six feet distance from others in all directions, she said.

More Testing all advised anyone having a gathering to “make sure you know who’s at your home” in case someone gets a positive diagnosis and contact tracing is needed.

She said the county has applied to the state to add four days of test capacity at the OptumServe site at Ramsay Park in Watsonville, which would allow for 330 tests a day, and to add a testing site in Mid/North County for 165 tests a day. n ••• COVID-19 Cases as of Oct. 30 Aptos 127 Ben Lomond 23 Boulder Creek 24 Capitola 67 Felton 28 Freedom 162 Santa Cruz 574 Scotts Valley 69 Soquel 66 Watsonville 1,632 Unincorporated 33 Under investigation 79 Total 2,884 Source: santacruzhealth.org

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

COMMUNITY NEWS

Scotts Valley City Council Candidates T he Nov. 3 election will decide three seats on the Scotts Valley City Council. Incumbents Jack Dilles, Randy Johnson, and Donna Lind

I

Donna Lind

’ve served the City of Scotts Valley for the past 52 years, starting as City Hall Secretary and becoming the first Scotts Valley female police officer, later a sergeant.

I’m proud to have served 40 years with Scotts Valley Police Department before elected to City Council 12 years ago. I bring a proven record of experience, work ethics and commitment to the City.

While serving with City Council, including 2 terms as Mayor, I have served with a variety of commissions including Santa Margarita Groundwater Agency, METRO, LAFCO, Senior Commissions, Criminal Justice Agency, Traffic Safety, AMBAG and more. My experience and history have enabled me to be a strong advocate for Scotts Valley in a wide variety of areas including grant funding for projects benefiting the City.

The City faces a huge challenge with economic recovery following the devastation created by the pandemic and CZU fires. This particularly hit hard since Scotts Valley had been working to recover from a fiscal crisis before the pandemic. Having served with the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce for the past 15 years, I have the experience and relationships to continue my work to support local businesses in recovery.

I know many of our local business owners and I have been working hard to support local business wherever possible.

I will continue to advocate for them and assist in recovery. I will also continue outreach and incentives to bring new quality businesses to Scotts Valley.

Public Safety is also a priority. Scotts Valley Police Officers are paid 25% less than other law enforcement agencies in the County. Due to this disparity, Scotts Valley Police Department has had the highest turnover in the history of the Department.

In March 2020, citizens of Scotts Valley voted to pass a sales tax measure with a priority to maintain public safety.

Two weeks after the sales tax passed, the pandemic hit.

face a challenge from newcomer John Lewis.

The Scotts Valley Times asked the candidates three questions:

F

Jack Dilles

inances: The city must focus on finances.

Because sales taxes and hotel taxes make up 50% of the General Fund budget, and because these revenues took a $2 million hit from COVID-19 impacts last fiscal year, the city was forced to burn through $2 million in cash reserves.

In the current year, the city was forced to cut more than $1 million from the annual $13 million budget by not funding vacant positions in the Police, Community Development, and Public Works Departments and by cutting other costs.

Further, the city suspended most Recreation positions and programs because of a sharp drop in recreation revenues.

These impacts were unfortunate because just last March, Scotts Valley voters approved Measure Z, a sales tax measure which would have stabilized finances and preserved service levels.

Quality of Life/Housing Balance: Scotts Valley is growing and housing projects are proposed or underway. It is essential that we maintain our small-town character, and yet the city needs some growth for a healthy economy and to house workers.

Property owners have the right to build housing if their properties are zoned for residential. Further, the State has required cities to set housing goals and has taken away local control over some development.

For instance, it is almost impossible to rezone property zoned as residential to open space, commercial or industrial.

Town Center: The city has struggled for many years to attract retail businesses and fully develop the town center, despite good efforts.

The latest proposal was halted by the developer during the early stages.

The city heard from residents concerned about the amount of proposed housing and questions were raised about the small amount of proposed retail, among other issues.

“Donna Lind” page 17 8 / November 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“Jack Dilles” page 15

1) What are the three most pressing issues you would address in the next four years?

2) What are your solutions?

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John Lewis

y top 3 issues are the budget, the budget, and the budget. Scotts Valley was very lucky to have companies like Netflix, Seagate, Fox, and a number of other high revenuegenerating companies call Scotts Valley their home and these businesses have moved on.

Scotts Valley has been slow to react. We need to build new revenue streams to pay for the police force / public safety, children’s programs, and the expenses the city has committed itself to.

We have outsourced everything we reasonably can, raised sales taxes to the highest possible rate, burned through the reserve fund. We can no longer let languishing projects stall out and turn into blight. We can no longer hope a new company will be founded here and pay the bills for us. We must actively decide what we want to be, and we have to work towards getting there.

We must consider development opportunities with an eye towards saying yes. If the proposal is ugly, we have to ask that the developer invest in the beauty of our city rather than stall the project out.

We have to strongly consider ideas like Jack Dilles’ suggestion we build a much-needed conference center.

We have to build affordable housing so public safety workers, teachers, etc. have a place to live. We cannot price essential people out, we have to open our doors to people who want to build their life here and invest themselves in Scotts Valley.

The time to let old projects languish is over. If we do not take control of our future, the future will leave us behind.

The city of Scotts Valley currently uses 55% of its general fund to pay for the police department. The police force still does not have the funding they need to be fully staffed, or offer competitive wages.

We have suspended a number of programs to educate and enrich the lives of our children, which jeopardizes the future of the Scotts Valley.

“John Lewis” page 15

3) Has COVID-19 or anything else shifted your priorities? If so, how?

••• Here are their answers:

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Randy Johnson

eeping our city intact in the face of a life-altering pandemic. Restoring Scotts Valley’s budget so we can continue to provide services to our citizens. Work to provide a city-wide defensible space against wildfires.

The economic threat that Covid-19 presented was and is real. It is a peril that confronts us daily and must be dealt with.

Our very real intent is to keep our city as it was before Covid-19 hit and affected our lives.

Businesses are threatened and we need to do everything in our power to make sure they survive. We formed the Local Economic Recovery Committee to meet those challenges In the early stages of the pandemic, there was a lot of uncertainty about the rules and conditions imposed by the state and the county. If you were an “essential” business, you could at least keep the doors open.

But many businesses were literally locked out and we tried to manage that inequity. We established lines of communication with the SV Chamber of Commerce and that partnership has been very productive.

Vice-Mayor Timm and I meet every week with them as well to provide information and coordinate our efforts. Our committee keeps citizens informed about the ever-changing status of rules and regulations.

Because restaurants are very vulnerable, we are moving forward with ideas and plans on how best to “winterize” those businesses so they will be around in the spring. We follow closely the many federal and state grants and funding opportunities and pass that information onto the Chamber to be given to their members.

I think the watchword for our city is in a word, survival. Our budget has never been so challenged as it is today. In March and April, Covid-19 represented an existential threat to our city in how our revenues have been diminished and our services compromised.

“Randy Johnson” page 17

COMMUNITY NEWS

All San Lorenzo Valley Water OK to Drink O n Oct. 23, the San Lorenzo Valley Water District announced the cancellation of the “Do Not Drink-Do Not Boil” notice in all of its service areas, based on water quality samples collected since the Aug. 17 CZU Lighting Complex fires.

After two months, all customers could resume using tap water for drinking, cooking, and all other normal uses.

“The District’s water supply is nondetect for contaminants from the August CZU Lighting fire,” reported District Manager Rick Rogers, adding that the order was cancelled sooner than anticipated because of “our staff’s tireless work sampling water quality and restoring the water distribution system.”

The “Do Not Drink” was lifted in stages, starting Sept. 7, returning service to 2,684 customers, with 510 customers not able to use their water. The Riverside Grove area in Boulder Creek had contamination issues and the order was not lifted until Oct. 19.

The last areas to be allowed to use their water were in the Boulder Creek area: All services west of the Hwy. 236/Paone Drive intersection, including, West Park Avenue,

Boulder Brook Drive; Virginia Avenue and Ridge Drive.

The water district is now focused on repairing the remaining fire damage.

“There is still a lot of work to do repairing the system and restoring watershed lands,” Rogers said. “The District won’t rest until we have the system repaired above and beyond its original structure. The Board of Directors and I want to sincerely thank all of our customers for their patience and understanding during this emergency.”

The water district has posted these resources online at slvwd.com: • An assessment of post-fire flooding debris flow and rockfall, with recommended actions.

• A map from the U.S. Geological Survey of areas where mudslides are likely to occur.

• A guide from the National Weather Service on preparing for post-fire flasg flooding.

“SLVWD” page 17

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

COMMUNITY NEWS

Another Record Median Home Price

S

By Jondi Gumz

ingle-family home sales were hot in Santa Cruz County in September in more ways than one.

The median sales price, the midpoint of what sold, was $1,060,000, according to Gary Gangnes of Real Options Realty, who tracks the numbers.

That’s a new record.

September was the third consecutive month the median price has topped $1 million dollars. A year ago, the median price was $815,000.

There were 195 sales, up from 149 sales a year ago and the most for September since 2005.

As of the first week of October, there were 330 listings, down dramatically from 598 listings a year ago and the fewest in history for this time of year, according to Gangnes, noting that over the past 25 years, the average number of listings for the first week of October is 872.

Of those 330 listings, 147 are under contract, leaving just 183 active listings. Of those active listings, only 57 are priced under $1 million.

Searching on mlslistings.com for a home in Scotts Valley priced at $800,000 to $1 million, seven listings came up.

One is a single-family home. Built in 1995 at 37 Birch Lane, this 1,655-square foot- home has three bedrooms and was just listed for $950,000. In 2010, it sold for $589,000.

The other six listings are townhomes, including four

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

A home on Whispering Pines Drive in Scotts Valley will soon go on the market. at the newly completed Cove development on Scotts Valley Drive.

In the next price range, up to $1.49 million, were six single-family homes and one duplex. The newest listing is a two-bedroom 1,279-square-foot home at 247 Geyer Road, built in 1940 on a 1.6-acre lot. Asking price is $1,099,000.

What is driving the frenzy in the housing market?

Historically low interest rates, according to the California Association of Realtors.

“Things are going nuts out there,” said Mary Russell, broker-principal at Mortgage Results in Aptos. “Everybody’s testing the market and you can’t beat the interest rate right now.”

Asked how long these low rates might last, Russell said, “They’re not going to raise rates. We’re safe for next year, but anything can happen.”

Buyers are playing catch-up after COVID-19, the contagious coronavirus put a lid on sales in March, April and May. But they have so little from which to choose.

In Santa Cruz County, homes sold faster than ever in September, 12 days on average, after selling in 14 days in August, according to the California Association of Realtors.

A majority of sales, 53 percent, in September, sold for more than $1 million, compared to 56 percent in August and 51 percent in July – which is unusual.

In September 2019, only 31 percent of homes sold for more than $1 million.

Those days seem so far away.

“Median Price” page 19

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*2.99% Introductory Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is available on Home Equity Lines of Credit with an 80% combined loan-to-value (CLTV) or less. The introductory APR will be fixed at 2.99% during the 6-month Introductory Period. After the 6-month Introductory Period, the APR is variable and is based upon an Index plus a margin. The Index is the “Prime Rate” as published in the “Money Rates” section of the online edition of the Wall Street Journal on the first day of the billing cycle. Eligible Lines of Credit loan amounts are $40,000-$250,000. As of October 1, 2020, the variable APR for Home Equity Lines of Credit ranged from 3.75% APR to 4.75% APR, depending on your credit score (the lowest APR disclosed includes any applicable rate discounts). The maximum APR during the term of the plan is 18.00%. The maximum loan amount is $250,000. An estimate of the fees imposed for opening the plan are $750 to $2500. However, these fees will be waived and/or paid by the Credit Union provided that our security interest in your home is maintained for at least 36 consecutive months from the date the HELOC account is opened. Otherwise, you must reimburse the Credit Union for these waived and/or paid fees (not to exceed $500). An annual fee of $75 is required on all balances of less than $20,000 after the first year. During the Draw Period, you may convert the variable interest rate and repayment schedule on a portion of your outstanding balance to a fixed rate and repayment schedule (subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Home Equity Line of Credit Agreement). Each time you fix a portion of your loan balance, you will be assessed a charge of $50.00. Only three (3) fixed-rate options may exist at any one time.

Offer is available for new applications submitted through March 31, 2021. Loans are subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Interest rates and programs terms are subject to change without notice. Property insurance is required. Other restrictions may apply. Bay Federal Credit Union membership required at the time of closing. For more information, visit any Bay Federal Credit Union branch or call a Bay Federal Home Loan Consultant at 831.479.6000 or toll-free at 888.4BAYFED, ext. 304.

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

Federally Insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender.

Scotts Valley Community Award Nominations Open Deadline Monday, November 30

T

he Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce seeks your assistance in recognizing the people and businesses that make our Community such a special place.

Please send us your 2020 nominations for outstanding businesses and individuals for the following categories: Alvin Scarborough Memorial MAN OF THE YEAR Annette Marcum Memorial WOMAN OF THE YEAR YOUTH OF THE YEAR EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR Claire Hodgin Memorial BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT OF SCOTTS VALLEY

vious year or over a period of time which you will specify.

• A business of the year nominee must be a current Scotts Valley Chamber member.

• An individual may live or work outside the city limits, but their contribution must be within Scotts Valley.

• Youth of the year nominee must be of High School age.

Nominating is quick and easy!

Criteria for nomination: Go online to submit your nomination • Each nominee must have made a valuable contribution within the directly on the Chamber website www.

Scotts Valley Community in the pre- scottsvalleychamber.com

Fresh Ideas to Build Your Santa Cruz County Businesses

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Free Webinar • Thursday, November 12 — 6:00–7:00 pm via Zoom

etting the word out about your business and reinforcing the concept of shopping local during these troubled times is more important than ever.

This FREE workshop will give you some fresh ideas on how you can promote your business and boost revenue through the holiday season. Get fresh tips you can use from these marketing pros.

••• Toby Corey Founder, Get Virtual Website Development and Optimization, SEO, Setting Up Your On-Line Store GetVirtual.org is a non-profit that gives local small businesses affected by COVID-19 the tools to adapt to the virtual landscape, extend their businesses online, and thrive in a new tomorrow.

Karen Kefauver Social Media Coach, Speaker, Writer

Communications in 1979. As a full-service television, video and digital media production company, #TeamTam takes projects from concept to completion.

Michael Olson Board Member, Think Local First Santa Cruz Free Advertising Opportunities in a Directory of Locally-Owned and Independent Businesses Co-owner of the KSCO MultiMedia Toby Corey Karen Kefauver Larry April Susan and Tam Michael Olson Group and General Manager of locallyon the health care industry, locally and in owned KSCO & KOMY radio stations, Social Media Marketing Karen Kefauver is a social media coach Santa Clara, restaurants, and a wide variety where he proudly helps locally-owned and freelance journalist who has helped of small businesses throughout Santa Cruz businesses go up against national chains hundreds of small business owners, entre- County. and win!

Susan and Tam O’Connor Fraser preneurs and non-profit organizations Tam Communications with social media marketing strategies.

Creating Compelling Video Content Larry April Tam, Director, Cameraman & Editor Principal, Larry April Advertising Susan is the Executive Producer/Creative Media Buying for Your Small Business Larry April Advertising was started Director and Writer.

Tam and Susan co-founded Tam in Santa Cruz in 1989, focusing primarily

Happy Thanksgiving!

Call the Chamber Today or Visit www.scottsvalleychamber.com

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

Scotts Valley Chamber News

The Circle of Gratitude

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By Lynn Robinson, Executive Director Valley Churches United Missions

s many in our community know, Valley Churches United is a yearround nonprofit food pantry serving all of San Lorenzo Valley, Scotts Valley and Bonny Doon.

The origin of our organization began with the devastating winter storms of 1982 that ravaged so many areas of our county. Our surrounding mountain areas have endured natural disasters of floods, slides, earthquakes, fires and more over the last four decades.

With each and every disaster, the response of the local community to step up and support each other in a dire time of need is such a testament to the best of the human spirit.

At Valley Churches we have a few phrases that have endured through our many years of supporting our service area,

including ‘Neighbors helping Neighbors’ and ‘Caring is Sharing’.

As we fast-forward thirty-eight years from the tragic storms of January 1982 to the current CZU firestorm of August 2020, these phrases are truer than ever.

This year, beginning with Covid-19 in mid-March and then adding the CZU fire in mid-August, we have been providing more needed support to individuals and families that never imagined they would need any assistance at all.

While serving as a food pantry every week in the heart of Ben Lomond, Valley Churches has always answered the call to help in times of crisis and provide a variety of support during such very stressful times.

As a nonprofit that does not receive direct government funding it is the amazing generosity of people in our local region and

The Hot Pink Box — There’s Always Something Good Inside Pre-order your Thanksgiving pies through November 16

T

he Hot Pink Box is not just for weddings anymore! They are your local Scotts Valley dessert caterer who offers fresh, homemade pies, sticky buns, cinnamon rolls, brownies, scones, cookies, and homemade marshmallows.

Now is the time to pre-order your Thanksgiving pies through November 16th for pick up in town on Wednesday November 25th between Noon — 4 pm.

Choose from apple, berry, cherry, pumpkin, sweet potato, Cali lime, chocolate mousse and chocolate peanut butter!

Send the perfect sweet Christmas gift to friends and family without leaving the house.

The S’mores pops and salted toffee popcorn boxes are so beautifully prepared and packaged for safe and fast delivery.

Order online anytime at www.

ShopThpb.com

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

beyond that provide us the financial ability to help in these unprecedented times.

We at Valley Churches United get to experience the full circle of gratitude again and again as we engage with both folks that want to help as well as those that are now in need of our assistance. Donors are so grateful they can give where their support is directed locally and makes such a positive impact.

Clients in their time of need are beyond thankful for the variety of support they receive and express their true gratitude as they get their lives back on track.

With the loss of well over nine hundred homes, the upheaval of so many lives has been unimaginable.

While the personal stories of loss from the CZU fire have been heartbreaking, the support from neighbors near and far once again is shining a bright light on the incredible ability of our community to take care of one another in such a time of need.

Photo Credit: Shmuel Thaler/Courtesy of Scotts Valley Chamber

Lynn Robinson

Valley Churches has been helping with the CZU fire recovery all along, even as we were evacuated and we will be an important resource of support for the future phases of the fire recovery.

As a resilient community looking towards the future progress together, the circle of gratitude will be shining brightly among us all.

Letter from Mayor Randy Johnson

2

020 has been a memorable year.

From the challenges of COVID, wildfires and evacuations, complex and charged political discourse, and unprecedented impacts to our economy, in all cases our resolve has been tested.

We have also shown tremendous resilience, strength, and hope.

Our community has come together to support those who are struggling through the donation of time, energy, meals, and resources – through it all we have stuck together.

As your Mayor, I have been proud of the incredible generosity and selflessness you have shown to each other as we have worked to remain nimble amidst the changing state and county guidelines.

Along with Vice Mayor Timm, I have served on the Scotts Valley Local Business Recovery Committee where we work to anticipate challenges and modify policies to enable businesses to maintain as much productivity as possible.

We have also partnered with the Scotts Valley Chamber who has helped us maintain connection with local businesses so that we can be more responsive to your needs and priorities and to work to reduce the economic impacts that so many communities are struggling to overcome.

Randy Johnson

We are at our best when we are united. As the year comes to an end and we move into the holiday season, we have an opportunity to close out the year strong and continue to show our unity by patronizing local businesses.

Please stay tuned for our Scotts Valley Shopping Guide that makes holiday gift shopping easy and keeps it local.

We have always been a community that has supported keeping it local and now, more than ever we need to embrace this value and show up for each other.

Stay healthy, stay connected and stay engaged.

Scotts Valley Chamber News

SVHS Green Team Launches a Green Business Certification Program

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By Willa Reed

cotts Valley High School’s Green Team is proud to introduce the Green Business Certification program, which is a program created, designed, and run by students of Scotts Valley High School.

The Green Team will award businesses that practice exceptional environmental sustainability. By committing to green practices and demonstrating compliance, businesses will receive a digital decal to display for their business to show their support for green practices, as well as for Scotts Valley High School and our Green Team!

There is a $45 application fee to become green certified - all proceeds will go towards replacing the plants and trees that were lost during the Covid-19 school shutdown from lack of watering.

The businesses will not only be doing something meaningful for protecting the environment but they will

also have the benefit of showing the community that they are partnering with an outstanding school program and beautification of the campus, complete with the spirit, optimism, and environmentally friendly practices of the SVHS Green Team.

Businesses will also be featured in the Green Team Certified Business Directory and highlighted in the Chamber of Commerce Business Directory, both of which will be distributed extensively throughout the community (both physically and digitally) to service organizations, schools, clubs, etc.

Businesses that become certified will have their logo prominently displayed and promoted on both the Chamber of Commerce and Green Team’s website, social media platforms, and other promotional materials.

To receive your application on becoming a certified

Scotts Valley Green Business please visit the Scotts Valley High School website https://bit.ly/2Gdl05D or email Willa Reed at reedws@scottsvalleyusd.org.

The Green Team members are: Skylar Kuo, President; Elena Bunney, V.P.; Willa Reed, Treasurer; Joelle Andrews, Secretary; Kylie O’Connor, Media Coordinator; and Mark Andrews, Club Advisor.

We thank you in advance for your participation in our new program.

Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP) Resources for Businesses Toolkit online that gives employers the tools and guidance they need to provide a fulfilling internship opportunity for students. By providing a quality internship experience for students, employers not only play a critical role in maximizing the benefits to students, but they also increase their return on investment. for more information and resources!

Monterey Bay Career Connect is funded by organizations working together to promote a well-educated community where every young adult attains a college degree or credential, gains worked-based learning experience, and successfully enters a career

research & data analytics, social media & digital marketing, web editing & graphic design, business administration, human resources support, and IT support.

Monterey Bay Internships is a FREE online portal for employers to post internship opportunities. Follow 3 simple steps to get going: 1. Sign Up 2.

Post an internship(s) and select “Remote Work” for Internship Type 3. Manage internship(s) and be sure to mark internships filled once an intern is hired!

Visit the comprehensive Employer

path, providing “local answers for local students” to inspire students to explore local career and education options.

The Monterey Bay Internships (MBI) website, mbinterns.org, is designed to accommodate both students seeking internships and employers recruiting interns. The site makes it easy for students and employers to connect.

However, simply making the connection between the two is not enough. Students are in need of meaningful and productive work experiences that will enable them to be competitive in the job market upon graduation.

For more information contact: Hayley Mears, WFD Program Manager: 831.278.2343 or hmears@mbep.biz.

Cheryl D Rebottaro, AAMS®, CRPC® Financial Advisor

KT-9811B-A

T

he coronavirus known as COVID-19 spreading in our community and throughout the region has led to significant changes in how we live, where we can go, how we communicate with each other, and how we work.

The Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP) wants to remind you of their free resources available online to the business community and encourage you to post remote-work internships for college students. Remote internships can be done entirely via email, online chat and meetings, and phone.

Examples of remote work internships and tasks: accounting & spreadsheets,

MKT-9811B-A

221 Mount Hermon Rd Suite F Scotts Valley, CA 95066-4038 831-461-9311

edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

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

Scotts Valley Chamber News

Tam Communications Uses Music Videos to Educate

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hen long-time client, Satellite Healthcare, approached Scotts Valley-based Tam Communications to solve a problem they were experiencing in some places they serve, Tam was up to the challenge.

Satellite is in the dialysis business, meaning many of the patients they care for are considered vulnerable in the age of COVID-19. This would be the second time that Tam would pitch a music video concept to deal with a serious patient/staff safety concern.

In 2018, as part of their “Road to Zero” Infections campaign, the topic was hand washing. At that time, the Tam team proposed a parody of the 2016 song “Hand Clap”, recorded by Fitz and the Tantrums.

Susan O’Connor Fraser wrote the lyrics for Tam’s version, “Hands Clean”, Regan Eymann produced and directed,

and Tam O’Connor Fraser shot and edited the video. Scotts Valley-based composer, Rich Harris, wrote the parody and Santa Cruz’s own Kim Luke and Adam Pierce were the vocalists.

TeamTam also choreographed the video, which featured members of Satellite Healthcare’s leadership team and other employees. The video was a memorable, award-winning piece.

The 2020 challenge was masks. This time Susan proposed

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a parody of Pink’s 2010 hit “Raise Your Glass”, calling it “Wear Your Mask”. Once approved, she went to work on lyrics.

Morgan Hill’s Tom Tomasello crafted the melody with former Santa Cruz resident, Niki Hexum, as vocalist.

In the age of COVID, a different approach to the visuals was needed so the company turned to crowd-sourcing Satellite employees, Tam’s own current and former staff, and dancers from International Academy of Dance in Santa Cruz.

Tam and Regan shot some of the video and Tam crafted the final video in his edit suite.

Needless to say, it looks like TeamTam has another hit on their hands. You can see it on the company’s YouTube channel.

MANAGE YOUR WATER USE FROM ANYWHERE Scotts Valley Water District’s new WaterSmart web portal can help you: • View hourly usage history and set up alerts for high usage.

• 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 / November 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

“John Lewis” from page 8 We have a town center project that is 20 years in the making and phase 1 has given us a 4th place to buy Starbucks coffee and we have a building called the hangar in a place where we tore down a hangar at the beginning of this project.

I have fresh eyes to these issues and I am disappointed we have local leadership that considers this a success.

Scotts Valley has to decide on a path forward. Are we going to turn ourselves into a sleepy bedroom community for Silicon Valley, or are we going to build our own businesses and make our own opportunity?

Are we going to approve projects that excite us at the prospect of something new or are we going to build another strip mall with a high vacancy rate?

Opportunities are presented to us every day. If we choose to say that nothing changes, then we have to figure out what we have to cut to make ends meet. I think we are capable of more.

I think we can embrace change

“Jack Dilles” from page 8 Solutions Finances: The city should rebuild Police, Public Works and Recreation service levels to levels that the community expects, reduce Police Department turnover, and manage finances in a way that will pave the way for a stable and bright future. This would be dependent upon the return of typical taxable sales and hotel tax revenue.

The city first needs to get past COVID-19. At that point, the city can more rationally update five-year financial projections and determine the best course of action.

Quality of Life/Housing Balance: My focus in building new homes is twofold. First, I would like the city to expand the inclusionary zone where housing projects must include 15% of homes as affordable.

This zone currently covers only the Scotts Valley Drive and Mt. Hermon Road corridors, and I am advocating to expand this zone to the city limits.

Second, I would like to encourage interested homeowners to add an accessory dwelling unit (“ADU”) on their properties as an investment.

This would add rental housing units in a way that would not change neighborhoods and would provide an opportunity for residents to earn rental income. This would be a win for both the homeowner and renters.

I don’t believe that new homes in

and make it what we want it to be. We can create the type of experiences that excite us to go downtown and interact with our neighbors.

We can say yes to new business with the caveat that it is done in a way that puts the natural beauty of Scotts Valley front and center. I came to Scotts Valley because I wanted to be nestled into the mountains and be surrounded by trees, businesses want this, too.

Opening the doors to businesses will provide us better jobs, greater tax revenues, and the opportunity to invest in the lives of our children and pay for public safety services.

I know the prospect of change is difficult, but my ears are open and my eyes are, too. I welcome feedback and I am not afraid to say sorry when I make a mistake.

I worry that Scotts Valley is on the path to bankruptcy. As someone new to the community I have bright eyes and like you I chose to build my family in Scotts Valley.

I think we can put in the work, I think we can build a future to be proud of.

Scotts Valley generate enough taxes to pay for services they receive from the city, so the city should be cautious about building too many homes, especially when the city is struggling financially.

Where the city has control, large housing developments should only be built in Scotts Valley if the benefits clearly outweigh negative impacts.

Town Center: It is time to revisit the 2008 town center specific plan and envision something different.

I would like Scotts Valley to reimagine what could be, with a focus on economic development. The city must also honor an existing affordable housing obligation in the town center.

I would like to explore other concepts such as developing outdoor oriented businesses or building a convention center. Focusing on the outdoors would build on the city’s green image.

The city should also continue to focus on getting the nearby Kmart building and other vacant commercial buildings back in business.

COVID-19 COVID-19 has seriously impacted city finances. After the passage of Measure Z, the city was positioned to restore services to residents and businesses with new revenue.

However, COVID-19 forced the city to take a giant step backward and the city was forced to reduce rather than restore services. As a result, city finances now require more attention than was expected six months ago. n

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You missed us and we really missed you! Join us for the food, the view, and just being out with friends.

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

16 / November 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“SLVWD” from page 9 • A guide from the California Native Plant Society on care and recovery of trees, erosion control and defensible landscaping.

•••

“Randy Johnson ” from page 8 That threat has eased somewhat, but we are still vulnerable to many contingencies, including a resurgence of the virus.

Our hotel taxes are measurably lower, along with sales tax. Our goal is to use our financial reserves to come through this crisis and restore a sense of normalcy to our community.

Our task is to use all of our powers to pivot and adapt as each crisis presents itself and provide the type of leadership that will see us through these very surreal times.

The CZU fire taught us many things.

It revealed in the starkest terms that we a vulnerable to wildfires and it is a threat that we must confront in a systematic way.

We saw a massive mobilization of firefighters and equipment in response to the menace. That reaction saved lives and property. My goal is for our city to coordinate with various branches of government, including federal and state, to

The Resources Conservation District of Santa Cruz County is offering post-fire recovery assistance to the community.

These services include on-site technical and planning help to assess post-fire land conditions and recommend appropriate actions related to natural resources.

Property owners can request help at: http://www.rcdsantacruz.org/ The Resource Conservation District has posted its a free webinar series to help residents understand the short and long-term effects of wildfire on the landscape and best practices for aiding the recovery process. n

••• Updated maps can be found at https://bit. ly/2TmP01Y To view memos on this issue, see h t t p s : / / w w w. s l v w d . c o m / h o m e / n e w s / cancellation-do-not-drink-do-notboil-notice-select-areas-10232020

foster a comprehensive plan to create a defensible space for our community.

A proactive program that improves forest management and brush clearance is attainable. Working locally, our fire district already helps and directs homeowners in how to clear, trim and remove vegetation that can pose a threat to their homes.

My vision is that we encourage state agencies to assess and act in confronting

the more global threat posed by underbrush and dead trees and remove them in a systematic way.

That might be a 5- or 10-year program, but it must be encouraged so as to provide a level of comfort to our community that we are serious about this issue. I have asked the city manager to explore those possibilities.

COVID-19 Covid-19 has had a sobering and

lasting impact on our lives. It forces us to be resourceful and resilient.

With lagging revenues and faltering businesses, we must continue to work hard and maybe even more importantly, work together.

One of the most difficult emotions to deal with is uncertainty, but our intent is to confront this challenge in a measured and consistent way to insure a resumption of normalcy for our community. n

Scotts Valley Café

“Donna Lind” from page 8 Although the City had planned to address the salary disparity, the financial impact of the pandemic shifted the City’s priority to survival. Unless this disparity can be addressed soon, Scotts Valley Police Department will continue to lose quality police officers whose work has resulted in the City of Scotts Valley having been named the 14th safest city in California.

Recruitment & retention of quality officers is vital to provide the public safety Scotts Valley citizens deserve. As the City recovers economically, public safety funding is a priority.

Scotts Valley City services are also challenged. Important staff positions were lost during the City’s fiscal crisis and the pandemic. Scotts Valley cut City personnel following the 2008 great recession.

Currently Scotts Valley has 25% fewer employees than in the early ‘90s.

The City has worked to be creative in working with the reduced staff. However, this personnel shortage is infringing on the City’s ability to provide necessary services.

Economic recovery is critical in replacing critical positions and improving services.

Upon re-election, I will continue my work in economic recovery and to obtain funds to support City services. n

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

From the Battle We Emerge Triumphant

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Esoteric Astrology • November 2020 • By Risa D’Angeles

very year at this time, around Halloween, the veils between the worlds become transparent and spirits return to Earth for a visit. This occurs during Scorpio, sign of all things mysterious, secret, clandestine, furtive and covert.

This Scorpio 2020 month is a most unusual month. It begins and ends with two full moons and a lunar eclipse (the past falls away) It’s an election year, the outcome determining the future of the earth. And Saturn and Jupiter, social planets, will be moving swiftly towards a Winter Solstice conjunction in Aquarius, opening the door to the new era with its New Laws & Principles.

Scorpio is the sign of readjusting ourselves from “darkness to light, the unknown to the known, chaos to beauty.” During November, a battle, waged against the American people since the 1930s, comes to the forefront. It is a battle between the Forces of Light and Forces of Materialism; a conflict in plain sight, focused in the USA government.

Scorpio, where we all become warriors, is where the battle ARIES As so many changes continue to occur, you become sensitized and aware of everyone’s behaviors, beliefs and responses in all interactions. You are also concerned with the right use of money & resources, your capacity to discern and discriminate and your ability to give (and give some more). Closeness is importance to you at this time. All that you value shifts to a higher intimate level.

TAURUS The ways we act and respond in relationships stem from childhood and family experiences and observations. Although you often hide yourself away from the world, you’re dedicated to loved ones. You would never think of leaving them. This dedication allows those close to you to grow, blossom, bloom, transform and evolve. Do you feel loved enough in return?

GEMINI No matter how compelling it is to return to a previous situation, you will not and cannot remain there. The purpose of the return is to review the lessons, realize the goodness, offer gratitude and forgiveness and then leave again. These liberate your future. The Nine Tests of Scorpio shadow you. You pass them. You cultivate focused spiritual intention.

And love.

CANCER Are you feeling restricted by anyone or anything in your life? Is there a need for a rebalancing with friends or family? Are you concerned with previous choices, decisions and use of future resources?

Let’s discuss rest (as in respite). You need rest in great amounts. A particular creativity calls to you.

Does it have to do with home, herbs, teas, flowers, mints and gardens? Are you planting biodynamically?

for the Soul of humanity appears.

Scorpio is also the sign of the Nine Tests – physical, emotional and mental tests, for which we must be prepared.

Tests strengthen us.

We are coming to the end of a long dark cycle where the Forces of Materialism have taken hold of the minds of humanity. By Winter Solstice, December 21st, the social institutions that have hindered humanity’s moving forward are to be eliminated for the new Aquarian era to begin.

But until then, all hidden secrets, barriers and hindrances must be torn down. It requires a great battle to remove this darkness. It is important that we remain poised and calm. Let us observe the results of both Mercury and Mars retrograde occurring during the election. It will be interesting.

No matter the outcome, if we are aligned with the Forces of Light (which do control the Forces of Darkness), we can say calmly together, “Warriors are we and from the battle we emerge triumphant.”

LEO Remember when life was lived outside? When we picked fruit, gathered water at the well, and made fires to cook on? Remember long walks at daybreak and sunset as the moon and stars appeared? Remember the sense of community. There was also loneliness and separation and long snowy winters. As adults, we are able to release what’s sorrowful. Through loving forgiveness. Remember?

SAGITTARIUS In Non-violent (compassionate) Communication classes we learn to thoughtfully and compassionately understand the self and others’ needs. Being able to discern needs becomes a creative act, deeply internal, yet profoundly affecting all outer experiences and interactions. Cooperation (a virtue) begins in earnest. If you haven’t already, begin to learn Compassionate Communication techniques. Its effects are extraordinary.

VIRGO You seek more freedom — especially financial. This has been on your mind for a while now. One of the most important ways of receiving money is tithing to those in need. When we give things away we experience freedom. The heart opens. What we give returns ten-fold. What you are really seeking is liberty.

Create a freedom journal. Write what makes you free.

Draw the Statue of Liberty.

CAPRICORN Profound changes continue, with self-identity and life direction. Group work is of great importance. In groups people see you as one who brings forth transformations. Some appreciate and recognize this, some don’t.

However, this is your task in groups. Understanding this helps you maintain focus and confidence. You manifest the group’s spiritual work. Before any work, call in the Soul of yourself and all others. The Soul protects and safeguards you. You are the Soul of the group.

LIBRA Your future is emerging in great unexpected and transformative waves. There is a reorganizing of your self-identity, how you see yourself, your professional and personal realities and interactions with the world. Listen carefully to all communication.

You might hear a message concerning what needs balancing to have a future filled with freedom. Begin with forgiveness. It heals you first. Then everything around you blossoms.

SCORPIO In coming months, there will be new discoveries, a new identity, and new learnings concerning how you see yourself. It begins with you creatively tending to self, then helping another. Helping others reconciles us to our own humanity. We see the needs of the times through the needs of others. Then we begin to help build the new world - the new sharing society. You are the resource behind this idea, which becomes an ideal within humanity.

•••

AQUARIUS Your resources depend on your state of mind. It’s most important to downsize so you can move forward quickly when needed.

Don’t let this be difficult. Either keep what you have or give it away so you are less dependent on physical non-essentials and more focused upon freedom, which your future will call for.

Balance is in having less. And then you can proceed onto a new adventure.

PISCES With Neptune in Pisces, here is what it feels like.

“Amidst the whirling forces we stood confused, swept up and down the lands, blinded, nowhere to rest.” Finally, we (Pisces) says, “Here I stand and will not move till I know the law governing this very moment.

Facing many ways, I will determine for myself which way to go, traveling no longer up and down the land, no longer be blinded. I will only upward move. And then find rest.” (the Old Ancient Commentary for Pisces.

Risa D’Angeles • www.nightlightnews.org • risagoodwill@gmail.com 18 / November 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

COMMUNITY BRIEFS Operation Christmas Child Gears Up amaritan’s Purse, which sponsors Operation Christmas Child each year, has announced drop-off locations for National Collection Week Nov. 16-23.

Local volunteers pack shoeboxes with gifts, personal care items and school supplies for either a boy or a girl, and the boxes are delivered to millions of children around the world.

Local drop-off locations include: ReGeneration Church, 1500 Green Hills Road, Suite 101, Scotts Valley; Santa Cruz Bible Church, 440 Frederick St., Santa Cruz, and Felton Bible Church, 5999 Graham Hill Road, Felton.

For more info visit samaritanspurse.org.

••• Construction Suspends Library Curbside Service Til Nov. 9 onstruction on the roof at the Scotts Valley Branch Library that started Oct. 16 means services are suspended until the work is complete, likely Monday, Nov. 9.

All the books and materials on hold for you at the Scotts Valley Library will be at the Felton Branch for pickup while Scotts Valley is closed. Any books and materials on hold not picked up at the Felton Branch will be returned to the Scotts Valley Branch after the construction is complete.

The book drop at the Scotts Valley Branch will remain closed during the construction period. Returns will be accepted at the Felton Branch during curbside service hours.

Due dates for things checked out from the Scotts Valley Branch and the amount of time your materials are kept on hold will be extended 10 days.

For information, call 831-427-7713.

••• HICAP Offers Free Medicare Seminars he Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program known as HICAP will sponsor several free virtual Medicare presentations in November for people to figure out if they have the right health and prescription drug coverage for 2021. The deadline to enroll is Dec. 7.

HICAP offers free and unbiased counseling and information on Medicare issues and does not sell, recommend or endorse any insurance product, agent, insurance company or health plan.

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“Briefs” page 19

COMMUNITY NEWS

Highway 17 Overnight Lane Closures C ulvert rehabilitation work along Highway 17 north of Santa Cruz will result in overnight lane closures, Sunday through Friday, for the next two weeks, Caltrans reports.

Due to an unavoidable delay, this project will begin on Sunday, Nov. 1, continuing through Friday, Nov. 6, and again from Sunday, Nov. 8, through Friday Nov. 13.

Work crews will be active overnight along Highway 17 at these three Post Miles: PM 6.04 — Just North of Santa’s Village PM 7.39 — At W. Vine Hill Road PM 12.41 — Near Summit Road Northbound motorists will find a closure of

“Median Price” from page 10 COVID-19 Compliance he California Association of Realtors reports the state Department of Real Estate Enforcement Division warned on Oct. 9 that complaints regarding non-compliance with COVID-19 showing protocols will be investigated.

The state Department of Public Health guidance requires all visitors to a property wear masks and use hand sanitizer. Agents are required to disinfect the home before and after each showing and ensure that social distancing and other COVID protocols are followed.

A report of non-compliance will lead to an education effort, and if compliance is not obtained, then citations or other disciplinary action may be considered.

Reports of non-compliance can be submitted via phone at 1-877-373-4542.

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“Briefs” from page 18 Dates of the presentations on Zoom are: Friday, Nov. 6: 10 – 11:30 a.m.: https:// tinyurl.com/HICAP-11-06 Monday, Nov. 9: 6:30 – 8 p.m.: https:// tinyurl.com/HICAP-11-09 Saturday, Nov. 14: 10 – 11:30 a.m.: https://tinyurl.com/HICAP-11-14 Friday, Nov. 20: 10 – 11:30 a.m.: https:// tinyurl.com/HICAP-11-20 Monday, Nov. 23: 10 – 11:30 a.m.: https:// tinyurl.com/HICAP-11-23 Registration in advance is required.

For more information, call Senior Network Services HICAP at (831) 462-5510.

••• R. Blitzer Gallery Reopens with Catamaran Show fter a seven-month hiatus of gallery exhibits due to COVID-19, the R. Blitzer Gallery in Santa Cruz is reopening

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the right lane at these locations, from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Southbound motorists will find closure of the right lane at these locations, from 9 p.m. to 7 am.

Work on the drainage inlet at the center median may require closure of the left lane.

Motorists can expect delays of up to 15 minutes.

This rehab work involves a process that introduces resin and steam into culverts to create a contiguous liner inside the culvert. Billowing steam may appear around these worksites.

Electronic message signs will be activated to inform the public. n

Civics 101

These statistics show how the numbers have changed over the past three months and how they compare to a year ago. n ••• Single-Family Homes Median July: $1,010,500 August: $1,050,000 September: $1,060,000 Average July: $1,205,205 August: $1,231,546 September: $1,210.612 Sales July: 220 (151 in 2019) August: 149 (164 in 2019) September: 195 (149 in 2019) Listings July: 381 (624 in 2019) August: 344 (600 in 2019) September: 330 (598 in 2019) Source: Gary Gangnes, realoptions.com with one of the best exhibits of the year, the 7th Annual Catamaran Annual Art Exhibition, showing through Nov. 30.

This is an opportunity to view worldclass paintings that have been featured in the Catamaran Magazine quarterly literary and arts publication published in Santa Cruz, featuring fine art alongside poetry, fiction and nonfiction short writings. Nationally and internationally recognized artists in the exhibit are Philip Rosenthal, Joao De Brito, David Ligare, Frank Galuszka, Christina Waters, Noah Buchanan, Julie Heffernan, Linda Christensen.

Hours are Tuesday and Thursday 1-4 p.m. or by appointment, 831-458-1217. The number of people allowed in the gallery at one time will be limited due to COVID restrictions; masks and social distancing are required. n

ACROSS

1. Beginning of flu, e.g.

6. Espionage agent 9. *Warsaw Pact opponent 13. Ringworm 14. Romanian monetary unit 15. Well-known 16. Contain the ashes 17. Paris’ ____ De Triomphe 18. Wear away 19. *Group of President’s advisors 21. *Balance partner, pl.

23. Ever, to a poet 24. Joker, e.g.

25. Type of coniferous 28. Man Ray’s genre

30. Switches topics 35. “Beware the ____ of March” 37. Large casks 39. Beyond suburban 40. Fatalist’s future 41. Weasel’s aquatic cousin 43. City of Taj Mahal 44. Tossed or passed 46. Ready and eager 47. “I ____ With You” by Modern English 48. Water pipe 50. Diplomat’s forte 52. Grain in J.D. Salinger’s novel 53. Miso bean 55. One of Indiana Jones’ quests 57. *Part of Congress 60. *One who introduces a bill 64. Recurring pain

65. Consumed 67. Baby grand, e.g.

68. Relating to Hinduism 69. Siren’s domain 70. Tiny island 71. Fencing weapon 72. Trinitrotoluene, for short 73. Two-player strategy board game

DOWN

1. Ear-related 2. Santa Maria’s companion 3. Give the cold shoulder 4. Like Halloween night 5. Turned skin into leather 6. Blind segment 7. ____ capita 8. New Mexico’s state flower

9. Narcotics agent, for short 10. Every which way 11. Koppel and Kennedy 12. Percy Bysshe Shelley’s poem, e.g.

15. Avian rest stop 20. Muse of love poetry 22. Store posting, abbr.

24. Choral composition 25. *”Miranda Rights” amendment 26. Leading potatoproducing state 27. Yesteryear style 29. *Serving on a jury 31. *One of five U.S. territories 32. One that insists 33. Ahead of time 34. *List of candidates 36. Radio button 38. Red Cross supplies 42. Summary

45. Sushi restaurant burner 49. “Too ____ to handle” 51. ____ of Cancer 54. Brewer’s staple 56. Snack of Jewish origin 57. Edmund Fitzgerald, e.g.

58. Marine eagle 59. Lymphatic swelling 60. *John Roberts’ spot, e.g.

61. Black Friday lure 62. Half of binary code, pl.

63. Decomposes 64. Definite article 66. *Number of amendments in the Bill of Rights © Statepoint Media

Answers on 23 »

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / November 2020 / 19

COMMUNITY NEWS

‘American Pickers’ to Film in California M ike Wolfe, Frank Fritz, and their team are excited to return to California! They plan to film episodes of the hit series American Pickers throughout your area in December.

We understand that with the proliferation of COVID-19, we are all facing very uncertain times.

We at American Pickers are taking the pandemic very seriously and will be following all guidelines and protocols for safe filming as outlined by the state and CDC. While we plan to be in California this December, we will continue to re-schedule if conditions change for the worse.

Regardless, we are excited to continue to reach the many collectors in the area to discuss their years of picking!

AMERICAN PICKERS is a documentary series that explores the fascinating world of antique “picking” on History. The hit show follows Mike and Frank, two of the most skilled pickers in the business, as they hunt for America’s most valuable antiques. They are always excited to find sizeable, unique collections and learn the interesting stories behind them.

As they hit the back roads from coast to coast, Mike and Frank are on a mission to recycle and rescue forgotten relics. Along the way, the Pickers want to meet characters with remarkable and exceptional items. The pair hopes to give historically significant objects a new lease on life, while learning a thing or two about America’s past along the way.

20 / November 2020 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Mike and Frank have seen a lot of rusty gold over the years and are always looking to discover something they’ve never seen before. They are ready to find extraordinary items and hear fascinating tales about them. AMERICAN PICKERS is looking for leads and would love to explore your hidden treasure.

If you or someone you know has a large, private collection or accumulation of antiques that the Pickers can spend the better part of the day looking through, send us your name, phone number, location and description of the collection with photos to: americanpickers@cineflix.com or call 855-OLD-RUST. facebook: @GotAPick n

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Pictures from the Past: Glenwood Highway

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Photo Essay by Carolyn Swift

utomobiles, or “machines� as they were often called in their early days, followed rough and unpaved routes over the hill from San Jose to Santa Cruz until paved roads could be built.

The original Glenwood Highway was constructed about 1914, when cars were still rare, and surfaced with concrete in the early Twenties.

The machines could scoot down to Santa Cruz for a weekend at the beach by 1923. n

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

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Fire Recovery: Permit Streamlining Ahead

By Bruce McPherson, Fifth District Supervisor

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s we move into November, there 20 approved an urgency ordinance estabis a lot of progress being made lishing a timeline and other regulations. on supporting recovery from the County and state officials are looking CZU Lightning Complex fires — preparing at minor mitigations where possible but residents to rebuild and protecting the believe evacuation is the best tool for community at-large from the likely hazard survival. They have been working on an evacuation map defined by zones, and once of debris flows.

Crews working for the U.S. Environ- it is released, residents are encouraged to memorize their zone mental Protection and evacuate when Agency have removed Crews working for the U.S. ordered. hazardous waste, Environmental Protection Even those living known as Phase 1 work, from more than Agency have removed hazardous in areas not considered to be high-risk 85 percent of parcels waste, known as Phase 1 work, for flows due to their impacted by the fire. from more than 85 percent of distance from burned After Phase 1 has parcels impacted by the fire. areas may be ordered been completed on a to evacuate out of an property, owners can move into Phase 2, which is the removal of abundance of caution. The County will be announcing several shelter sites for resinon-toxic debris, including vehicles.

Property owners can participate in a dents to use if evacuated.

In terms of financial support, I want to government-funded Phase 2 process or thank FEMA for extending to N23 the applihire a private contractor with County cation deadline for individuals directly approval. We expect the publicly impacted by the fire to seek an array of funded Phase 2 process will begin Dec. disaster assistance, which includes 1, and the required right-of-entry form temporary housing costs, perfor property owners to submit is sonal property losses and home now available on the County’s repair. The Small Business Fire Recovery website — santaAdministration also offers cruzcounty.us/firerecovery low-interest loans to — under the heading Debris property owners.

Removal.

The County has Cleaning up as quickly and spent an estimated safely as possible will reduce risks. $8.3 million to date As many of you have likely heard, the responding to the fire County is gravely concerned about the and working on recovery, potential for debris flows similar to those with about $7.1 million of that took place after a wildfire in Santa those expenses reimbursed by Barbara County in 2018, leading to 23 FEMA and the California Office deaths. of Emergency Services.

These fast-moving flows can happen The Board of Superwhen an intense rain event loosens the topsoil damaged by fire, sending mud, visors approved drawing down our boulders and other material into structures contingency reserves, those set aside for emergencies like the fire, by $1.2 million and vehicles in its path.

In order to ensure the timely removal to cover the gap. I want to thank my colof debris, the Board of Supervisors on Oct. leagues and our County Administrative

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Local Local Local

Photo Courtesy of Kevin Painchaud

Office for building up those reserves over the last several years and using them judiciously so they would be available for times like these.

Lastly, we know those suffering the biggest financial hardships are our residents. We can report that property tax reassessments are likely to reduce their financial burden.

While annual tax bills have already gone out based on property values assessed effective Jan. 1, the County Assessor’s Office is reassessing all properties damaged by the fire.

Affected property owners will receive or may have already received a Notice of Supplemental Assessment letter, and eventually will see a reduction in tax based on the new property value. More

News ...

Sports ...

Politics ...

information is available on the Assessor’s and Treasurer-Tax Collector’s pages on the County’s website.

Looking ahead, the Board is expected to approve a contract on Nov. 10 with a consulting firm to process and streamline rebuilding permits.

This is an important investment to increase our capacity for helping property owners complete the process as quickly and efficiently as possible. We anticipate the firm will be working with the County for at least two years. n ••• Bruce McPherson is the Fifth District Supervisor for Santa Cruz County and former California Secretary of State. http:// www.co.santa-cruz.ca.us/Government/ BoardofSupervisors/District5.aspx

SCCAS Featured Pet

COMMUNITY NEWS

Second Harvest Needs Your Help

Holiday Food & Fund Drive Kicks Off Nov. 5

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On the Runway: Fifi O’hara, Miss Fame, and Ru Paul

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s your barn-yard boring? Coop a little crusty? Downs a bit dusty? Well you can turn “legs” and “dairy” into LEGENDARY with these three fancy roosters!

Fifi O’hara (A273355), Miss Fame (A273356), and the infamous Ru Paul (A273354) are ready to strut their silkie feathers down your runway. It has been a long few months for these roosters, but they are ready to sing their way into your heart.

They came to SCCAS when their family had to evacuate due to the CZU Lighting Fire and they are now available for adoption because they were not able to return home.

These three are ready to Cock-a-doodle-do this adoption thang, so come to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter to take these beautiful roosters home today!

Adoptions are first come, first served! Please view available animals on our website and then visit the Shelter to turn in your application. All adoptions require proof of home ownership or landlord approval. Please have this information prepared. If an animal is in Foster Care, please bring in your adoption application and schedule an appointment to meet the animal. Call 831-454-7200 x0 during business hours or visit www.scanimalshelter.org for more information! n ••• Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s full-service, open-admission shelter: Santa Cruz Location (Public Entrance): 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 Hours: Daily 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

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

econd Harvest Food Bank Santa of Cruz County will launch its largest annual fundraising campaign with a virtual event 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Nov. 5.

The three-month event, ending Jan. 15, provides essential funding support for 165 non-profit food distribution partner agencies and programs in Santa Cruz County.

All funds raised during this drive go directly to providing food to the partner agencies and programs. For every $1 donated, Second Harvest provides 4 healthy meals.

To see the inspirational Holiday Food & Fund Drive video being released November 5, and get fundraising ideas, resources and motivation, register at: www.thefoodbank. org/kickoff2020 “We’re encouraging everyone to register and view our virtual Holiday Food &

Fund Drive kick-off video to help motivate and unite our community around this more-essential-than-ever event,” said Willy Elliott-McCrae, Second Harvest CEO, who is looking for “Hunger Heroes” to help make the 2020 Food & Fund Drive a success.

He added, “Since March, because of the pandemic’s economic effects and fires, our food distribution grew from 650,000 pounds per-month to 1.2 million pounds and food recipient numbers exploded from 55,000 to over 100,000. Now, more than ever, nonprofit organizations rely on the food bank to provide the healthy, nutritious food they need to support their client populations.”

Every month Second Harvest’s network of partner agencies and nutrition programs feeds more than 80,000 people of all ages. n Information: www.thefoodbank.org

Civics 101 © Statepoint Media

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