Scotts Valley Times: July 2022

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Grand Jury: Do More to Reduce Wildfire Risk

Preventing future wildfires from seriously damaging our forest communities will require a major reduction of hazardous vegetation.

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6,400 Workers Gone: What to Do?

The Santa Cruz County Workforce Development Board contracted with BW Research of Carlsbad to prepare the “2022 State of the Workforce Report.”

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Table of Contents

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SMILES NEVER GET OLD.

Cover Summer Cooler Community News 4 7

6,400 Workers Gone: What to Do?

Grand Jury: Do More to Reduce Wildfire Risk

15 Bill On Doctors’ Conduct Advances, By Jondi Gumz

17 Seacliff Inn Refreshed: Aptos Hotel Joins A Tapestry Collection

831-684-2700

Business Profile 10 Kirby School: College-Prep Education in a Pandemic, By June Smith Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Newsletter • Pages 11-14

11 Scotts Valley Art Wine & Beer Festival Returns to Skypark • Calendar of Upcoming Community Events

12 Fringe Salon Ribbon Cutting • Store-Wide Closing Sale at Found Art Collective

13 New Member Spotlight: Sol Hot Yoga

14 Scotts Valley Independence Day: Fireworks, Festival, Parade + Flyover!

In Memoriam 16 Beloved Sister Sheryl Albers-Anders: Sept 1954 ~ May 2022, By Sheryl (Gumz) Albers-Anders

Monthly Horoscope • Page 18 – U.S. Birthday, Conflict, Chaos and Harmony, By Risa D’Angeles

Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 20, 21 Featured Columnists 6

Training to Avert a Tragedy, By Donna Lind, Mayor, City of Scotts Valley

22 How Your Tax Dollars Will Be Spent, By Bruce McPherson, Supervisor, Fifth District

23 Minestra di Verdura: Broccoli Rabe and Garlic Soup, Submitted by Joe Ortiz

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6,400 Workers Gone: What to Do? Editor’s note: For all the employers who put up a “We’re hiring” sign and are still looking, here’s the explanation: 6,400 fewer workers.

Will the job market ever return to normal?

Read on.

••• he Santa Cruz County Workforce Development Board contracted with BW Research of Carlsbad to prepare the “2022 State of the Workforce Report.”

This year’s report has particular importance as the local and global economy recovers and evolves from the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic.

These disruptions have reshaped labor markets and the balance of power between employers and employees, resulting in new challenges.

Another challenge is skyrocketing rental rates: Between 2019 and 2021, the average rental rate for a 2-bedroom apartment grew from $2,400 to $3,000 per month.

Half of renters spend more than 35% of their income for housing, leaving them less discretionary income to spend – and this may make talent attraction harder.

This report highlights the disruptions and include deep dives into industries that have seen the greatest workforce disruptions: Healthcare, hospitality, and agriculture.

Key Findings 1) Santa Cruz County’s labor market has shrunk.

In December 2021, there were 6,400 fewer workers than in December 2019.

However, the unemployment rate in December 2021 is roughly the same (5.4%) as it was two years prior (5.2%).

This represents nearly a 5% decline in workers over two years.

Labor force participation is part of the problem; between January 2015 and

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2022, labor force participation in the county declined roughly 9%.

(This means more people opting not to work.)

Not all of the decline is pandemic related.

Labor force participation rate between January 2015 and January 2020 fell 5% before COVID-19 had arrived in the U.S. An aging population in Santa Cruz County likely plays a significant role in these trends. The county has more people 55 and older compared to the state as a whole and more people age 18 to 24, thanks to UC Santa Cruz.

Combined with early retirements driven

by COVID-19, this has led to an accelerated loss of workers and a lack of younger workers to replace them. The California Department of Finance estimates a net 4,600 residents moved away from Santa Cruz County between July 2019 and July 2021, representing a notable decline in population (273,000 in 2020).

Many were likely low-and middleincome workers.

2) Job quality in Santa Cruz County has improved from 2015 to 2021.

There has been an increase in higherpaying, higher-skill jobs and a decrease in lower-paying, low-skill jobs. Higher-earning jobs pay an average of $75,000 a year. The lowest paying jobs pay on average less than $45,000 a year. In the middle are jobs paying $45,000 to $75,000.

While local job quality remains lower than the statewide average, the county has seen improvement.

In the third quarter of 2021, there were 1,300 more highest-paying Tier 1 jobs, 850 more Tier 2 jobs and 1,100 fewer lowestpaying Tier 3 than in the third quarter of 2015.

This indicates a shift towards a more skilled, more educated workforce with higher median annual earnings.

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3) Industries with the lowest average annual wages per worker all experienced declines in employment between 2015 and 2021, while many better-paying industries saw growth.

About 2,200 accommodation and food services workers were lost between 2015 and 2021 — down 19%. That sector comprises 10% of the county’s jobs.

Healthcare and social assistance--which accounts for 15% of countywide jobs and is one of the mid-earning industries--grew by 2%.

Construction industry, another midearning industry, saw the most growth, 67%.

Although the information industry is among the highest-earning industries in Santa Cruz County, it shrank the most, 46%.

4) Santa Cruz County residents changed their shopping and employment behavior, and they have not returned to pre-pandemic patterns.

As of March 2022, people in Santa Cruz County were still spending 7% more time at home than they were before the pandemic, and they were spending 19% less time at retail and recreation locations, which include shopping malls and movie theatres.

The nature of work may have also permanently changed for many; people were spending an average of 27% less time at workplaces than before the pandemic.

The rise of remote work may have significant impacts, including changes in commuting patterns and businesses that relied on office lunch hours for revenue.

5) The healthcare industry, which represents 14% of jobs in the county, has seen significant disruption.

According to a fall 2021 nationwide poll of healthcare workers, 18% in the healthcare industry had quit their job and another 12%

COMMUNITY NEWS had been laid-off or lost their job at some point during the pandemic.

The most common reasons included the COVID-19 pandemic (54%), wanting more money or better benefits(50%), finding a better opportunity (50%), and feeling burned out or overworked (49%) .

This high turnover is likely to have lasting implications in Santa Cruz County.

Many high-demand healthcare occupations, including personal care aides, home health aides, nursing assistants, and medical assistants, are projected to see high rates of demand in the next year, as well as low unemployment rates.

These factors, paired with the specialization required for most healthcare occupations, mean that the industry is likely to continue to see a shortage of workers until training and education pipelines can fill some of the gaps.

Cabrillo College graduated 188 students in healthcare professions in 2020, then had enrollment rates compared to 2018 drop 20%.

Some healthcare workers may be able to work remotely but it requires workers who are tech-savvy and emotionally intelligent.

6) The pandemic accelerated the decline in agricultural employment in Santa Cruz County.

In summer, ag jobs typically grew to about 10% of all the county’s jobs.

While nonfarm employment across the county has risen steadily over the last

decade or more, farm employment has seen a steady decline. Peak farm employment in July 2010 was 32% higher than in July 2021. Some—but not all—of this shift was driven by the pandemic, as peak farm employment fell 17% between July 2019 and July 2021.

This will have long-term effects as farmers look to automation, downsizing their plots, or changing crops to address the labor challenges.

Workers will need to have IT knowledge and experience.

7) Accommodation and food services saw employment plunge 57% in the early days of pandemic — a loss of 11,600 jobs.

By the start of 2022, the industry had largely adapted and recovered — but not fully — by the start of 2022.

The summer of 2022 is expected to experience continued increased demand for hospitality workers and is likely to test employers’ ability to find workers.

••• Recommendations any of these will require collaboration and partnership with other organizations and institutions across the county.

1) Initiatives to increase labor force participation and pull residents from the employment sidelines.

Unemployed, underemployed, and adults who are disengaged from the labor

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force present an economic opportunity for a county that is looking for talent.

Several populations typically have lower labor force participation rates because of barriers, and removing those barriers may help those individuals enter the workforce. These include parents with young children, those with lower educational attainment, formerly incarcerated, and long-term unemployed and discouraged workers.

In South Santa Cruz County, 28% of residents do not have a high school diploma compared to 5% in North County.

Strategies that expand access to childcare, improve digital literacy, and increase educational attainment and awareness of relevant career pathways--especially when they are targeted and refined to support specific populations--can increase labor force participation and improve economic mobility.

2) Workforce attraction and retention for healthcare and hospitality industries.

Both have seen considerable churn and challenges over the last two+ years of the pandemic, and attracting new workers is necessary to fully meet their workforce demands.

The Santa Cruz County Workforce Development Board may be able to help with attraction and retention efforts by working with regional employers to develop career profiles and pathways that illuminate the purpose, earnings potential, and upward trajectory of these jobs.

Developing strategies to educate students

and jobseekers on these potential employment opportunities could also be valuable in the larger effort to bring more workers into the industries. Surveys have shown that factors like pay, purpose, and flexibility are particularly important and salient for those looking for new job opportunities in the post-pandemic world, and employers would benefit from readily advertising these aspects of their jobs.

3) Assess and compile the emerging employment skills and pathways in agriculture.

The slow march of automation in agriculture was briefly accelerated by the pandemic, though shortages of human workers highlighted the role that humans will continue to play in agriculture. Many agriculture roles will increasingly rely on some knowledge of web technologies and the Internet of Things and some may even require working alongside robots to maintain them and serve as quality control.

Working with farmers to develop programs that incentivize and upskill current workers may have some success in attracting new entrants and retaining talent. In some cases, these techn skills may be paired with basic education, ESL, computer literacy, or intermediate math or sciences courses to ensure workers have the sufficient background knowledge necessary to operate the technical equipment.

“Missing Workers” page 9

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / July 2022 / 5

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Training to Avert a Tragedy

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ith the recent tragic shootings across the nation including Uvalde, Texas, there is encouragement with the historic bipartisan action taken by Congress. It’s been challenging to balance an individual’s 2nd Amendment rights while protecting public safety. Recent action taken

by Congress will make a difference.

Although California has 108 laws relating to firearms, the most of any State,

By Donna Lind, Mayor, City of Scotts Valley violence involving firearms still happens.

California law requires gun owners to store weapons safely and securely to keep them from children and adults who are prohibited from having firearms. Still, between 2012 and 2017, almost 200,000 turned up stolen in California.

The City of Scotts Valley offers free gun locks. Locks are available in the lobby of Scotts Valley Police Department. Persons

6 / July 2022 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

with unwanted firearms or ammunition are encouraged to contact Scotts Valley Police Department to safely surrender them.

Firearms should be transported unloaded secured in the vehicle trunk without ammunition in the trunk. An officer will meet the person in the Police Department parking lot to safely take possession of the firearm and/or ammunition and document disposal. It’s helpful to call in advance to arrange the surrender if possible.

Scotts Valley Police Department will be participating in a County-wide gun buyback program. When details are available, information will be released to the media and posted on Scotts Valley Police Department’s social media and the City’s website.

Active Shooter Training he City of Scotts Valley is proud to have hosted an annual Active Shooter/Mass Casualty Incident training coordinated by UC Santa Cruz Police Department. This is the 10th anniversary of this groundbreaking training.

Not only does every County law enforcement and fire agency participate in this training, but more 400 first responders from all over the State traveled to Scotts Valley to participate. The training has evolved to include not only law enforcement and firefighters but also Emergency Medical Service, federal investigators, Red Cross and more.

As a retired Scotts Valley police sergeant, I regularly participated in important training.

Still, nothing compares to training with other county first responders who will respond to assist with these types of calls.

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The training starts with law enforcement and fire personnel’s initial response to a Mass Casualty Incident.

Training includes responding to and encountering an active shooter, administering on-site first aid, extracting casualties, and setting up safety corridors for fire personnel to treat critically wounded.

Training scenarios become progressively more difficult involving Simunition guns, multiple role players with various injuries that need to be treated, other dangers that teams must navigate, and an Incident Command Post with dispatchers. This allows all the first responders an opportunity to train together and learn from each other in an extremely stressful environment.

Because this training program is known to be the only one of its kind, first responders travel from some distance to participate. The program has continually evolved as instructors learn from mass casualty incidents in other areas and recruit first responders who have experienced mass casualty incidents to share their knowledge.

Although everyone hopes they never experience an active shooter or mass casualty incident, there is comfort in knowing that all first responders in Santa Cruz County have trained together and are prepared.

This preparation allows them to respond more quickly in a coordinated manner. This has not been the case in other areas that have experienced tragedy. However, this training is not without cost.

“Training” page 9

Scotts Valley High School was site of training for a mass casualty incident. Law enforcement countywide and more than 400 first responders participated.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Grand Jury: Do More to Reduce Wildfire Risk

Editor’s note: This is an edited and abridged version of the Santa Cruz County Grand Jury report. The full report is at https:// www.co.santa-cruz.ca.us/Departments/ GrandJury/2021-2022GrandJuryReports andResponses.aspx ••• he August 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire was the most destructive fire to ravage Santa Cruz County in more than a century. It was a disaster waiting to happen, and it won’t be our last calamitous wildfire.

Preventing future wildfires from seriously damaging our forest communities will require a major reduction of hazardous vegetation.

We must prioritize vegetation reduction to protect residences, utility infrastructure, access and egress routes, and critical buildings such as schools and hospitals.

This report calls out achievable steps that will limit the harm done by recurring wildfires to forest communities.

Our report identifies major impediments that exist to taking those steps.

The Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors commission a strategic investment plan for reducing wildfire risk and that the agencies critical to producing that plan report directly to the Board of Supervisors.

Finally, those agencies should update the public annually on progress.

The CZU Fire started with an unusual lightning event in the early morning of Aug. 16, 2020 that ignited multiple fires in Santa Cruz and San Mateo counties. The fires eventually joined, and the resulting mega-fire destroyed 1,430 structures and damaged 134 structures.

The preliminary estimate of total damage, including public infrastructure, was $340 million.

More than 45,000 people were successfully evacuated from areas threatened by the fire, and one man tragically lost his life.

Interviews reported resources were not adequate to fight the fire. At one point, 27 separate fires were burning, but only 13 fire engines were available.

The lightning strikes and the resulting fires damaged communications and utilities.

Reverse 9-1-1 notification systems, social media, text messages that might have alerted residents to the wildfire threat were inaccessible.

Many evacuations were coordinated through California Highway Patrol officers and County Sheriff’s deputies, who drove through threatened neighborhoods with loudspeakers encouraging evacuation. This depended on clear evacuation routes.

In 2007, CalFire mapped wildfire hazards across the County. Most of the County was in the moderate and high fire severity zone.

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Suppression ire-management policies have focused on protecting watersheds, communities, and the timber supply by suppressing all wildfires. This has led to a massive increase in the available fuel at ground level, making wildfires that get out of control much more devastating.

Before this policy, natural fires, usually sparked by lightning, burned forests every 5–15 years. These frequent fires burned dead wood and vegetation under trees, and limited the accumulation of flammable materials.

Today there is just too much inhabited forested land to broadly execute prescribed burns. The costs—not to mention the risks— are too high.

What makes wildfires different today—as compared to the early part of the last century— is the number of people living in rural areas, or the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI).

A 2010 survey of counties

by Headwaters Economics, an independent, nonprofit research group, states that Santa Cruz County has 61 square miles of WUI, 59% developed with residences.

There were then 20,858 homes in the Santa Cruz County WUI. These homes represent 20% of all residences in the County.

According to the CalFire 2021 Strategic Fire Plan for the San Mateo–Santa Cruz Unit, the increasing population in the WUI has caused fire agencies to change their approach.

The agencies have shifted from focusing primarily on fighting fires to protecting roads, structures, and people. There are not enough firefighters or fire apparatus to protect every home during a wildfire.

Communities and government are asked to take greater responsibility for making homes, neighborhoods, and the larger community more defensible from wildfire.

In 2019–2020, the Santa Cruz County Civil Grand Jury investigated wildfire preparedness and published the report before the CZU Fire. Here are excerpts.

Finding 1: Vegetation/fuel management and abatement are not receiving the attention nor funding needed from the County of Santa Cruz Board of Supervisors, and therefore are not adhering to Executive Order1.8.19-EON-05-19.

Board of Supervisors’ Response: Partially Disagree: Vegetation/fuel management and abatement is the responsibility of the property owner not the County of Santa Cruz.

The County could do more to improve the clearing or removal of vegetation along County-maintained roadways, more than just the sight line clear that may or may not occur annually. The removal of vegetation is expensive and labor-intensive for a county that provides many services.

“CZU Fire Grand Jury” page 8

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“CZU Fire Grand Jury” from page 7 Funding is available through grant opportunities to assist with fuel reduction and the County has benefited from such grants.

An example is the project approved as part of 35 statewide projects outlined in Gov. Newsom’s executive order on fuel reduction. This project, in CSA 48, Aptos Creek and Buzzard Lagoon roads near Corralitos, treated 225 acres to improve existing and create additional fuel breaks to protect vulnerable communities. Of the 225 treated acres, 150 acres is a shaded fuel break and has allowed for the use of prescribed fire to help clear and maintain the area.

Recommendation 9: Each year, during the budget presentation, the County Board of Supervisors should require County Fire to provide a vegetation-management plan , including a priority list of projects and a timeframe for completion.

Board of Supervisors’ Response: Requires Further Analysis: There is currently no funding for a vegetation-management plan for the County Fire Department.

To summarize the position of the Board of Supervisors two years ago: Property owners are responsible for vegetation reduction on their property, not the County.

The County could improve vegetation reduction on County-maintained roads.

County Fire does not have a plan. It coordinates with CalFire to identify priority projects.

Because there is no funding for vegetation-management planning, planning isn’t done. Priority projects are done only after grant funding has been obtained.

The Grand Jury determined that vegetation reduction along roadways is a major problem that the County must lead in solving.

The highest priority areas for vegetation reduction are those located within, or are adjacent to, the WUI. Beyond the WUI, where infrastructure supporting nearby communities exists, that infrastructure must be protected.

Creating fuel breaks is a commonly applied vegetation reduction method.

A large fuel break constructed by UC Santa Cruz enabled firefighters to halt the advance of the CZU Fire and protected the campus.

Another large fuel break was constructed during the CZU Fire in Henry Cowell State Park along a heavily forested ridge to prevent the fire from reaching San Lorenzo Valley High School and Highway 9.

Providing safe evacuation routes, shelterin-place locations, and access routes for fire crews enables safe movement for affected residents and emergency services. Safe movement is the responsibility of state and local agencies.

Overgrown vegetation on or next to roads makes access difficult for firefighters and equipment. Roadside vegetation is the fuel that is ignited first. There are many overgrown, narrow, one-lane roads in the County.

These conditions often make it difficult for emergency vehicles to access a fire area when residents are leaving.

Investigation Three key questions surfaced: • How are vegetation-reduction projects prioritized, funded, and executed?

• Is the County sufficiently proactive and providing the leadership needed to

achieve adequate wildfire protection for the future?

• Are County residents sufficiently informed of progress toward wildfire resilience?

Vegetation-reduction projects to reduce community risk from wildfire are, in essence, taxpayer-funded public works projects. When viewed that way, residents deserve to understand why specific projects were selected, and what benefit they will provide.

Vegetation reduction projects should be tracked relative to predefined goals, and progress toward those goals should be reported periodically.

A plethora of agencies and organizations — many with overlapping responsibilities — provides different aspects of fire prevention throughout the County. The list: Santa Cruz County Fire Department • 13 separate fire protection Districts • CalFire Office of Response, Recovery & Resilience • Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County • Fire Districts Advisory Commission • Santa Cruz Fire Safe Council • Santa Cruz Mountains Stewardship Network • Firewise Councils The Grand Jury tried to understand how all these entities are working together to create wildfire resilience.

We learned the Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County and the Office of Response, Recovery & Resilience often coordinate planning and implementation of projects. However, being regarded as a lead agency comes with the expectation of reliable funding and the ability to manage large projects, which these two agencies lack.

Coordination is not the same as leadership.

The Grand Jury gained appreciation of the enormous complexity of the required permitting for large vegetation-reduction projects.

We were told some plans intentionally lack specificity that would trigger an Environmental Impact Report. When an individual project needs an EIR, that requirement makes it slow to execute and hampers obtaining funding.

In Santa Cruz County, there are multiple, overlapping efforts to produce a strategic plan for vegetation reduction. However, no strategic plans appear to have been completed at present—much less made available to the public. The Grand Jury also came to understand that the various organizations have differing priorities.

County Fire and the Fire Department Advisory Commission The Fire Department Advisory Commission is working with County Fire on updating its Santa Cruz County Fire Department Master Plan for the first time since 2015. We were told this is the first time there have been objectives approved by the Board for County Fire.

CalFire tracks vegetation-reduction projects internally but that data is not consistently provided to the media or to the public.

The Resource Conservation District’s Public Works Plan aims to facilitate approval of fuel reduction projects in wildfire risk areas of the Coastal Zone over 10 years.

Santa Cruz County recently purchased a masticator, a device that “chews up” lowgrowing vegetation, roots and topsoil.

“CZU Fire Grand Jury” page 22

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“Missing Workers” from page 5 This opportunity for workers to advance their knowledge and abilities may help adopters of these programs differentiate themselves from other farms and allow ag workers to increase their education while working.

4) Emphasize education and workforce development among younger adult residents in South Santa Cruz County.

Residents in the Southern sub-region of the county are, on average, younger, less educated, more likely to be in lower-paying employment, and more racially and ethnically diverse than residents in North County.

Workforce development programs in South Santa Cruz County should include these priorities: Increase educational attainment for those that have a high school diploma or less as their highest level of education. Labor force participation, overall earnings, and economic mobility are all improved with higher educational attainment, particularly if those individuals have less than a high school diploma.

Emphasize career education and career pathways that are available in the county and provide an onramp to a sustainable career.

Increase communication and engagement between employers and young people.

Field trips, site visits, and career days can help middle and high school students better understand the full range of career opportunities and how to best work toward them.

Rather than having all students attend a four-year university to figure out what their interests are, some students may be more interested to learn about healthcare careers that start with a certificate or associate’s degree but allow for growth and strong earning potential down the road.

Identify employment opportunities

“Training” from page 6 During the recent training, local legislators were invited to see the training in process. It’s hoped legislators will advocate for funding to continue this life-saving oneof-a-kind training program.

A common factor in almost every active shooter or mass casualty incident is that the person responsible left clues or said something. It is important that if someone hears something, they say something.

Information can be reported anonymously at the Scotts Valley Anonymous Tip Line at 831-438-8090.

Red Flag Laws n 2014, California passed a “Red Flag Law” regarding the confiscation of firearms known as a Gun Violence Restraining Order.

In addition to law enforcement, this allows family, employers and in some cases coworkers or teachers to seek a GVRO. This order temporarily removes firearms from someone deemed to be a danger to themselves or someone else. The GVRO is reviewed by a judge for approval. Approval requires clear and convincing evidence that’s necessary based on the evidence presented.

If granted, law enforcement will seize all

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that allow for additional training and education for current workers. Employment opportunities that serve the joint purpose of inspiring and offering young workers more opportunities for training and education, while also providing some income and work experience, would be quite valuable.

This could include pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeship programs,as well as paid internships and more traditional full-time employment paired with training and/or educational programs.

5) Promote efforts that will expand affordable housing options around Santa Cruz County’s work and transit hubs.

Between July 2019 and July 2021, the California Department of Finance estimates that Santa Cruz County’s population declined by a net 4,600 residents. This was driven by nearly 5,000 residents leaving the county.

While this data does not provide countylevel detail on the demographics of these workers, we know that low-and middleincome workers make up the greatest share of residents who are leaving statewide.

High costs of living are likely a significant driving force for this migration.

Promoting additional housing — including the initiatives that are already underway — is one way to increase affordability. Improving traffic and commute times is another area of opportunity to increase the livability of the county for a broad range of workers. n Read the full report at: https://workforcescc. com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Santa-CruzCounty-SoW-Final-2022.pdf Cover Photo: Target is recruiting cashiers, stocking & staff for Starbucks for its store at 270 Mt. Hermon Road in Scotts Valley, offering starting pay of $17 an hour.

No word on the opening date yet.

firearms from the person. The person is prevented from owning, possessing, purchasing, or receiving any firearm or ammo for a period of one to five years.

Firearms are involved in half of suicides and three-quarters of homicides in the United States. UC Davis conducted a survey in July 2020, which assessed personal willingness to use a GVRO when a family member was at risk. After reading a brief description of California’s GVRO law, more than 80% of the respondents said they would be somewhat or very willing to ask a judge to issue a GVRO if a family member had threatened to physically hurt them or a family member.

California issued 3,007 Gun Violence Restraining Orders from 2016 to 2020. In 2020, the state issued 1,284 restraining orders, 15 times more than the 85 issued in 2016.

In closing, I’d like to reiterate, “If you see or hear something, Say Something.” You can remain anonymous and shared concerns will be investigated professionally. Your action could save a life! n ••• Donna Lind is mayor of Scott Valley.

Contact her at dlindslind@earthlink.net or call 831-438-4187.

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / July 2022 / 9

BUSINESS PROFILE

D

K irby School College-Prep Education in a Pandemic

By June Smith

uring the pandemic, the Georgiana Bruce Kirby Preparatory School, founded in 1994, adapted to meet student needs.

“COVID provided Kirby School with the opportunity to be creative in how to provide college prep education, feeling less like ‘recovery’ and more like adaptation,” says Communications Director Paige Berardo, “To adapt, we invested in professional development, supporting our teachers, and in technology for access to our program. We increased academic and mental health services to help students succeed in a more autonomous learning environment and changed the frequency of social connections (advisory groups, school meetings) to help overcome the effects of isolation.”

On the impact of enrollment, teachers, fundraising and the student experience, she says it has been consistent with reports from colleagues in the Bay Area.

COVID brought families closer together, both physically and emotionally.

Parents were more attuned to their child’s needs and became their advocate.

COVID also created stress for faculty, who had to quickly adapt to new technology and shift their curriculum for new delivery methods while caring for their own families.

Students had to adjust to a completely different learning environment and a total halt to their social connections, vitally important during adolescent years.

Tuition assistance was increased to ensure continuity of learning.

“Now that we are in person, we have

responded to the national youth mental health crisis with full-time COVID-safe instruction,” Berardo said. “We added new events and activities, many of which took place outdoors, for fun and camaraderie.”

All schools had to adjust and adapt, and Kirby saw a need for increased communication.

Teachers leaned in with more frequency, frontloading upcoming activities to decrease student anxiety and offered more-advanced notice of assignments and assessments. When students struggled without the normal external cues that help skills develop, support was provided. A lot of trust was built.

Students needing technical assistance were helped, and a mental health practitioner was added to support students’

10 / July 2022 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

needs. Hybrid learning was offered all year for those needing to be home, and positive feedback came from parents about community Zoom meetings with the head of school.

Parents felt the impact of COVID but through communication and a commitment to health and safety, had a higher level of comfort in sending their kids back to in-person school.

Enrollment trends are consistent with schools across California. Lower birth rates mean fewer children to educate.

School staff attribute a small reduction in enrollment with the lack of affordable housing and the CZU fires.

As for fundraising, there was a strong commitment from the donor base, who funded several incredible projects over the past twoand-a-half-years, including a Recreation Area/Sport Court/ Amphitheater.

Attention to safety led to good outcomes, according to longtime trustee Sandie Shoemaker.

“There were no COVID cases transmitted, and weekly PCR testing, daily fever checks, and indoor masking was required through the end of the year,” she said. “We were fortunate to have Dr. Tom Deetz, a PAMF (Palo Alto Medical Foundation) infectious disease expert advising the school on COVID policy.”

There was no impact with the elimination of SAT and ACT tests. Students were offered

over $6 million dollars in 4-year scholarships. Other criteria aside from test scores included student essays, recommendation letters from teachers and counselors, extracurricular activities, special projects students have completed, internships, and AP scores.

Small class sizes and interactive classrooms mean that teachers know students well. Letters of recommendation provide excellent context of how students show up in an academic setting. A college counselor works closely with each student and writes personalized recommendations. Because English classes have a student-teacher ratio of 12-1, students develop excellent writing skills, and an essay workshop is held every summer. n

Scotts Valley Art Wine & Beer Festival Returns to Skypark

T

he Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the return of our signature summer event, the Scotts Valley Art, Wine and Beer Festival.

It will take place in the beautiful park setting of Skypark in Scotts Valley.

The premier summer festival in the Santa Cruz Mountains that has something fun for everyone!

The festival is a two-day event and is always held on the third weekend in August — Saturday, August 20 from 10am to 6pm and Sunday, August 21 from 10am to 6pm Festival goers can purchase their tasting kits early to receive a

significant savings offered online only. The pre-sale tickets will end the day before the festival on Friday, August, 19th at 5pm. To take advantage of the discounts and to buy tickets and avoid the lines at the festival, visit the festival website at svartfestival. com.

Pre-sale tasting kits can be picked up at the will-call window.

There will be over 100 fabulous artists and you can view the growing list on the festival website at svartfestival.com The area’s most prestigious wineries that include: 37th Parallel Wines, Aptos Vineyard, Armitage Wines, Bargetto Winery, Hallcrest

Vineyards, Integrity Wines, Inversion Wines, Kissed

By An Angel Wines, Ser Winery, Sones Cellars, Valley Vista Vineyards, Wargin Wines and Wrights Station Vineyard & Winery.

The award-winning micro-breweries include: Highway 1 Brewing Company, Humble Sea Brewing Co., New Bohemia Brewing Co., Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing, Steel Bonnet Brewing Company, Unreal Brewing Company and more who will be pouring their best.

There will be culinary creations from Aroma Concessions, Aunt LaLi’s Treats, Big Bite, California Corn, Chicken and the Farm, Epoch Eats, Indonesian Satay, PANA, Steve’s Shave Ice, Taquizas Gabriel and more to be announced!

The festival also includes a car show, the Cops ‘N Rodders on Saturday that benefits the Scotts Valley Police Department and the popular Bring Your Dog Day Sunday with pet tricks, costume and look-a-like contests.

This year’s live music entertainment schedule is as follows: Saturday, August 20 11 a.m. - Noon — International Academy of Dance Competition and Performance Teams 12:30 - 2 p.m. — Paperback Ryders

Calendar of Upcoming Community Events Sunday July 3

3-9:15 pm – Scotts Valley Parade, Celebration & Fireworks

Scotts Valley Drive 3 pm: Parade & Flyover Skypark 4 pm: Live Music, Food Trucks, Games, Kid Zone 9:15 pm: Fireworks

Thursday July 21

5:30-7 pm – Grand Opening Red Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Fringe Salon 4652 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley

2:30 - 4 p.m. — The Shady Rest Band 4:30 - 6 p.m. — Lyin’ I’s Sunday, August 21 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Scotts Valley Schools Talent show 12:30 - 1 p.m. — Bobbie Wards Performance Vocal 1:30 - 3 p.m. — The Joint Chiefs 3:30 - 5 p.m. — The Lost Boys featuring James Durbin

Thursday July 28

5:30-7 pm – Joint Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

MADabolic & Faultline Brewing Compnay The Hangar, 262 Mt. Hermon Rd., Scotts Valley

Saturday August 20 Sunday August 21

22nd Annual Scotts Valley Art Wine & Beer Festival Sky Park 361 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley

Thursday September 22

5:30-7 pm – Networking Mixer & Movie

Cinelux Theatres Scotts Valley 226 Mt. Hermon Rd., Scotts Valley

Advertise in the Scotts Valley Chamber Newsletter • Call or Visit Today: www.scottsvalleychamber.com

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / July 2022 / 11

Scotts Valley Chamber News

Fringe Salon Ribbon Cutting F ~ July 21st 5:30-7 p.m. ~

ringe Salon, with over 75 years of combined experience, welcomes you to its new location for a grand opening and ribbon cutting! Head to Fringe Salon at Tree Circus Center, 4652 Scotts Valley Drive, on Thursday July 21st from 5:30-7pm and join in on raffle prizes, salon specialist meet-and-greets, and live music!

Come connect with the marvelous Fringe stylists and enjoy the curated space that this family-owned business dedicated hours of love and soul into creating for their guests to relax in. It is warm and nostalgic salon experience inspired by the 70’s, from vintage wallpaper and hand-crafted, live sunflower, resin shelves and they’re positive you’ll dig it.

At the opening, guests can take pleasure in indulging in snacks, as well as custom craft beverages created by a local mixologist all while appeasing their ears to the live tunes provided by local band, Lo Timers!

Prizes! There will be a number of prizes, including gift cards, styling products, and styling tools to be won at the Fringe Salon raffle, taking place the night of the opening, 7/21/2022. The team at Fringe will be floating around during the opening to answer any questions or to chat about your hair dreams.

Please join this team, in welcoming the community to their long awaited new space! Let’s talk about hair!

Store-Wide Closing Sale at Found Art Collective

W

hether you need a gift or want something special for yourself be sure to check out our final

selection of pottery, stationery, jewelry and natural bath and body products.

Found Art Collective will be open

Fridays, Saturdays, and by appointment through July 30.

They are located at 5167 Scotts

Valley Drive across from the new farmers market location. Phone 831-221-0280.

Celebrating 41 Years of Managing & Selling Homes throughout Santa Cruz County — 1981 - 2022 $5800/mo 3-story 4BR/3.5BA Solar Townhome w/garage on Bluebonnet Lane is Scotts Valley ........AVAIL NOW $3800/mo 1-story 3BR/1BA Home w/fenced yard on Woods Street in Santa Cruz .............................AVAIL NOW $2300/mo 1-story 1BR/1BA Unit in a Duplex w/2 patios on Hillcrest Drive in Felton ........................AVAIL NOW ••• 2-story 4BR/2.5 Home plus office w/garage in Scotts Valley Heights on Kentwood Court .................COMING SOON 3-story 4BR/3.5BA Solar Townhome end-unit w/garage on Bluebonnet Lane is Scotts Valley ........COMING SOON 2-story 3BR/3BA Home on Cooper’s Hawk Court in Scotts Valley ......................................................COMING SOON 1-story 2BR/2BA Hidden Oaks Condo on Bean Creek Road in Scotts Valley ....................................COMING SOON

12 / July 2022 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

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Scotts Valley Chamber News New Member Spotlight

F

or some, it’s about physical health.

For others, it’s about mental and spiritual well-being. For others, it’s about community.

For Gema and Randy Smith, yoga is about all of the above.

Following a difficult personal loss, practicing yoga helped her feel whole again, helping her get deeply in touch with herself and grow relationships with those around her. Similar stories abound on the Sol Hot Yoga teaching team.

For these yogis, their practice is so much more than a hobby–and whatever purpose yoga has served in each of their lives, they are eager to pay it forward and foster a healthier, happier community.

Though exercise in general helps facilitate well-being, the team at Sol

Sol Hot Yoga

believes strongly in the power of yoga–particularly hot yoga. Heating up the room enhances yoga’s strength

and flexibility benefits and provides the heart, lungs, and muscles a better workout.

The team at Sol is excited to support their community’s diverse fitness goals by providing a range of yoga and pilates classes, including vinyasa flow, 26/2, restorative yin, power yoga, hot pilates, and more.

Beyond physical fitness, Sol’s team strives to build a sense of community and belonging for their students. They work to create a welcoming space where students of all backgrounds and yoga levels are encouraged to breathe deeply, reflect, and take time for themselves.

Classes are structured to accommodate this beautiful diversity of experiences and skill levels.

Wherever you are in your wellness journey, Sol Hot Yoga welcomes you. They offer morning and evening classes daily in their new King’s Village facility, which is equipped with state of the art heating technology to create the conditions necessary for a refreshing and rewarding hot yoga class.

You can find their schedule and additional information–including on their new student special–on their website at solhotyogasv.com, or on > edwardjones.com social media: @solhotyogasv.

You can’t predict the future, so plan for it.

You can't predict the

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / July 2022 / 13

Scotts Valley Chamber News

Scotts Valley Independence Day Fireworks, Festival, Parade + Flyover!

Sunday, July 3

T

he City of Scotts Valley is proud to bring back this family-friendly celebration. Come join us to enjoy live bands, great food, kids activities, and of course fireworks! Proceeds from the BBQ and the KidZone will support local youth organizations and schools.

This event is made possible by the generous support of our community, sponsors, and volunteers.

This event is made possible by the generous support of our community, sponsors, and volunteers.

Big thanks go out to this year’s Platinum Sponsor, 1440 Multiversity, as well as Premium Sponsors: Mari and Ed Rossi and New Premium Sponsors: Target, Whiting Foods, and Longevity Medical Institute.

Several returning sponsors stepped up to support the event again, including: Zinnias, Kaiser Permanente, the Pratt Family, Scotts Valley Market, Donna Lind, Robert Aldana, Central Home Supply, The Hanger, Ow Family Properties, Scarborough Lumber, and Derek Timm.

Many more businesses contributed to provide food, signage, music and logistics including: A Sign ASAP,

THE CITY OF SCOTTS VALLEY & SCOTTS VALLEY EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION PRESENT

Independence Day Celebration SUNDAY JULY 3, 2022 PARADE | FLYOVER | FIREWORKS

Business With Pleasure, Erik’s Delicafé, Togo’s, Music Now, Swag Lab Promo, Teller Express, and the thrilling flyover by Little Tampico.

The Scotts Valley Police Department, Scotts Valley Fire Protection District, California Highway Patrol, and Allied private security will be there to ensure a safe event. Law enforcement will be directing traffic after the fireworks to help everyone get home efficiently and safely.

Your Key To Home! $ Home loan solutions for everyone, from first time home buyers to weekend renovators.

New this year, the Scotts Valley Educational Foundation and SV Parent Club will be hosting the KidZone with endless fun featuring inflatable structures, a climbing wall, games and more to keep kids entertained all afternoon while parents relax on the grass and enjoy live music by the Joint Chiefs and the Lost Boys featuring James Durbin.

Volunteers are still needed. Sign up at https:// www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0e4ea9a929a6f4c25july. All the info you need to know can be found at: www.scottsvalley.org.

••• July 3rd Schedule of Events 3 p.m. — Parade + Flyover: Starting at Carbonera Way & Scotts Valley Dr. (FREE) 4-10 p.m. — Festival Gates Open at Skypark: 361 Kings Village Rd., Scotts Valley at 4pm. Live music from 4-9pm: The Joint Chiefs + The Lost Boys featuring James Durbin. Tickets at scottsvalleyfireworks.eventbrite.com for $10 (+$1.87 processing fee) or $15 at the door. KidsZone activity tickets sold separately online or on site. Fireworks show starts at approximately 9:15pm.

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14 / July 2022 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

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COMMUNITY NEWS

DISCOVER THE JOY OF LEARNING AT

Bill On Doctors’ Conduct Advances A

By Jondi Gumz

B 2098, declaring it is “unprofessional conduct” for a doctor to give patients “misinformation” or “disinformation” about Covid-19, risks, prevention, treatment and vaccines, has passed the Senate Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee by 9-4 vote and was sent to the Appropriations Committee for a hearing Aug. 1.

Unprofessional conduct charges can result in discipline by the Medical Board.

The California Medical Association and seven more doctor associations are in support, but more than two dozen groups are opposed, including Protection of the Educational Rights of Kids Children’s Health Defense California Chapter.

President Biden’s Sept.

9 order requiring 3.5 million federal employees to be vaccinated for Covid-19 is on hold until September as a federal appeals court on June 26 agreed to revisit its April decision to reinstate the mandate.

The 17 judges on the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans will take up the matter. A three-judge panel had ruled 2-1 that U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Brown in Texas, who had ruled against the mandate, did not have jurisdiction.

The lawsuit was filed by Feds for Medical Freedom, which has about 6,000 members, con-tending the president overstepped his authority. Attorney Bruce Castor Jr., representing the American Federation of Government Employees Local 918, said the Constitution doesn’t allow president to bypass Congress except in wartime.

According to The Epoch Times, the court tentatively scheduled oral arguments for the week of Sept. 12.

Brown wrote, “Stopping the spread of Covid-19 will not be achieved by overbroad policies like the federal worker mandate.”

Covid’s Omicron variants emerging this year have proven to be extremely contagious, with case counts up and Dr. Anthony Fauci, 81, who heads the National Institutes of Health, Vice President Kamala Harris, San Francisco Mayor London Breed, and Gov. Gavin New-som – all vaccinated, boosted and testing positive, followed by quarantines, and Canadian Prime Minster Justin Trudeau, twice this year.

On June 17, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized emergency use of Covid-19 vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna for children 6 months to 5 years old.

Next, the California Department of Public Health approved Pfizer’s three-shot series and Moderna’s two-shot series.

On June 21, Santa Cruz County Public Health announced children under 5 years of age are eligible to receive Covid-19 vaccines – interested parents can contact their doctor.

Young Children & Covid ovid has claimed the lives of many elders, those 85 and older with preexisting medical conditions, but relatively few children.

The federal Centers for disease Control & Prevention reports 442 children age 4 and under have died of Covid since it arrived in 2020.

More than 1 million people in the U.S. have died of Covid, so young children represent a tiny percentage of deaths.

In June, the American Association of Pediatrics reported that in 46 states plus Puerto Rico, the percentage of child Covid cases resulting in death was 0.00%-0.02%.

Dr. Vinay Prasad, who has a master’s in public health, struggled to understand how Pfizer calculated 80% efficacy during the Omicron surge for the third booster shot for children under 5.

Pfizer reported on its clinical trial involving 1,678 children — 10 got sick.

Pfizer looked at Covid cases 7 days after dose 3, not cases before that.

“You can’t exclude days,’ Prasad said, “You don’t get to say the first seven or 10 days don’t count.”

Prasad said Pfizer’s “emergency use authorization” reports an analysis of this age group was “found not to be reliable” because of the low number of Covid cases.

He point to the “confidence level” present by Pfizer, which ranged from 99.6% to minus 370%, a big range “that gives you little confidence that it’s a reliable result.”

A Kaiser Family Foundation survey in April found 18% of parents of children under 5 plan to vaccinate them immediately, with planning to wait to see if there are side effects, 27% with no plans to use the Pfizer product on their children, and 11% saying thy would do so only if required for school or day care.

Among parent concerns: Long-term effects.

Could it be that young children represent an untapped windfall for the drug-makers?

It all depends on whether these vaccines are added to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention vaccine schedule for children. See https://www. cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/hcp/imz/ child-adolescent.html “Covid Update” page 19

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / July 2022 / 15

IN MEMORIAM

Beloved Sister Sheryl Albers-Anders Sept 1954 ~ May 2022

By Sheryl (Gumz) Albers-Anders Editor’s note: The Wisconsin governor ordered flags at half-staff for my sister, who died May 28 after fighting pancreatic cancer. She wrote this obituary.

••• was born on Sept. 9, 1954, the second daughter of eight children of my parents, Norma N. (Anderson) and Marcus J. Gumz. We lived in Sauk County, WI. I went to Baraboo High School, earned my bachelor’s in art with an emphasis in psychology from Ripon College, and later in life earned my law degree from the University of Wisconsin Law School.

I was married to Jim Albers for 20 years and we have a son, Joel. I am married to Steve Anders now and we’ve been going strong since 2004. I’ve had a blessed life as a

I

16 / July 2022 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

farmer, a legislator, and a lawyer in addition to wife, daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend.

In my young life, I farmed with my family, producing mint oil and soybeans. Rough work.

I worked in the potato grading line, picked and sold sweet corn at a roadside stand, and learned to operate nearly every piece of farm equipment we had.

I prepared payroll and financial reports while singing in choir and participating in Pep Club, French Club and Tri-Hi-Y, and enjoying weeknight skiing at Devil’s Head and Cascade, where I first got to know my future husband, Steve! But first…

The college years included working three jobs to pay for school, mainly in Wisconsin Dells. I went first to Carroll College, then to Ripon. I’d bring home fellow students to live and work on our farm during the summers. After college, due to my mom’s health issues and my dad’s urging, I went back to the farm to help out.

I have good memories of my adult time on the farm.

I became active in the county Republican Party, served on the Sauk County Farm Bureau Board, got my private pilot’s license and owned a Terratorn Ultralight, and was named Sauk County Miss Farm Bureau.

Jim Albers and I married in 1978, and we were recognized as Outstanding Young Farmers. I was a founding member of the Sauk County Women in AgricultureEagle Bluff Chapter, a member of the WI Mint Growers Association, WI Muck Growers Association, and WI Drain Boards Association.

In 1991, I was elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly in a special election and served until my retirement in 2009.

I worked hard on behalf of my constituents. I earned my law degree in 2004, then got my Madison College certificate in human resources in 2009. I practiced law and I worked in human resources at the Department of Corrections. When I wasn’t doing that, I really enjoyed traveling, sometimes to see my chosen “family around the world” with Steve.

I will particularly miss my friends from the FFA’s Work Experience Abroad Program: Christoph (France), Ruth (Switzerland), Anke, Elke, Christal and Juliane (Germany). Sending love to all.

I was quite the seamstress, sewing, tailoring, and devising garments for a variety of occasions. I was crafty, creating gifts for friends. Experiencing world travel and the amazing art in our world fed my soul. Going to races with Steve, enjoying the company of friends, hosting dinners, planning events, and digging deep in conversation to really connect with others … these were meaningful and crucial to my life.

I strove to live a life of faith and loyal service. My perspective was to do what I could while I was here and leave others in a better place after I’m gone.

“Beloved Sister” page 18

COMMUNITY NEWS

Seacliff Inn Refreshed

Aptos Hotel Joins A Tapestry Collection

P

acifica Hotels, the largest owner and operator of boutique hotels along the Pacific Coast, announces Seacliff Inn in Aptos will join Tapestry Collection by Hilton.

The classic California property has long been a favorite among families, beach lovers, and road trippers for its idyllic location, breathtaking views, and proximity to area attractions.

Seacliff Inn will become part of Tapestry Collection by Hilton on June 1, with a remodel and rebrand that will conclude in late 2022.

As part of this transition, Seacliff Inn is undergoing an extensive rebrand and remodel that focuses on the use of natural materials, landscaping enhancements, and the introduction of modern accents that will transform the beloved property into a refuge for travelers and destination for the community.

Keeping true to its boutique hotels roots, Seacliff Inn’s unique personality, personalized services, and unmatched experiences will continue to provide the home-away-from-home stay travelers have been searching for.

The neighborhood-centric, boutique hotel is centrally located between Pacific Ocean beaches, world-renowned surf destinations, and towering redwoods that bring together the Hwy. 1 family vacationers, the Silicon Valley corporate retreaters, and the nature-loving adventure seekers.

Seacliff Inn brings 148 guest rooms and suites, flexible venues, and a longstanding local’s favorite restaurant, Sevy’s Bar + Kitchen, to Aptos with an excitement to rekindle nostalgic connection.

“We are thrilled to transition to a Tapestry Collection by Hilton property and continue our partnership with Hilton,” said Matt Marquis, CEO at Pacifica Hotels.

“This boutique property is truly a gem within our collection, and it is the perfect time for the hotel to receive a new, elevated

look while maintaining its local charm. We are ready to welcome back the community and travelers from around the world to see the newly re-imagined space and continue the service they’ve come to know and love for many years.”

Featuring serene accommodations, Seacliff Inn is a down-to-earth haven for the not-so-average traveler and includes 148 rooms styled for the modern refuge or the immersive coastal road trip alike, with either a balcony or patio; comfortable workstations; app streaming; flat screen TVs and contemporary amenities.

Looking to connect guests to the spirit of their surroundings, the new space celebrates Central California through its locally inspired design with warm wood tones, natural accents, and coastline inspired hues throughout.

A longstanding local favorite, Sevy’s Bar + Kitchen — formally Severino’s Bar and Grill, has been an Aptos gathering spot for 36 years.

Sevy’s redesigned layout includes a new bar, updated interiors, and fully refreshed outdoor seating and décor.

True to its local nature, Sevy’s offers farm-fresh cuisine, classic cocktails, live entertainment, and a friendly face at every table.

“Sevy’s has always held an important place in the Aptos community, and we are ecstatic to be giving it a fresh look without losing its original magic,” said Thomas Gregory, Senior Director of Food and Beverage at Pacifica Hotels. “Our goal is to make Sevy’s the place to be any night of the week with live music, trivia, and other weekly events – something for everyone. We are stepping up our culinary and cocktail programs to bring in new flavors and fresh ingredients; keeping with the traditional roots the community has always loved.”

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“Seacliff Inn” page 18

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / July 2022 / 17

U.S. Birthday, Conflict, Chaos and Harmony Esoteric Astrology • July 2022 • By Risa D’Angeles

M

onday, July 4, 2022 is Independence Day in the United States.

It is the 246th birthday of the United States, a country created by the Hierarchy (inner spiritual government) as an experiment in freedom.

Externally, the U.S. was formed to liberate itself from England (freedom from the old ways) under new laws and rhythms. Every country has a spiritual task. The task of the United States of America is that of “standing within the Light and leading humanity within and towards that Light.”

The United States, in these days of crisis, needs new enlightened servers — the New Group of World Servers. Let us dedicate ourselves in service to our country and people as we recite the ancient Mantram of Service together: “Help us, O Lord, to know and to do our part in the world.”

The month of July may be quite a difficult, emotional and chaotic month for the United States and its people. It may be an emotional explosive firecracker of a month. It will require all of us to maintain balance and equanimity between mind and heart. In order to navigate the turbulent waters ahead.

ARIES

We may feel like our world is breaking down into a thousand little pieces.

Astrologically we have Uranus square Moon breaking up crystallizations and Pluto/Pluto bringing about a complete transformation of our ways of life. Uranus frees us from the past rhythms we are used to and offers humanity new Aquarian laws and principles.

Memories appear as we are called to create the new future.

Pluto returns to its original place when the United States was founded (1776) Pluto is the “Transformer.”.

We will feel like a snake when shedding its skin. When this occurs the snake is temporarily blinded. Pluto brings the end of one form so another can come to life.

We have existed for the past 2,500 years under the rules of Pisces (Neptune, belief). Now we are entering the Age of Aquarius (Uranus, knowledge), the age of humanity’s freedom. The present and upcoming chaos and conflicts we are experiencing are the preparatory stages to a new world.

The Rule that governs our Earth is that out of all conflicts and chaos, a new form of harmony and new rhythms emerge That is a promise to humanity.

During this halfway mark of the year, you have cultivated enough inner strength and energy to meet all the expectations and demands of work, both self-imposed and from others. You have developed new abilities which may seem unusual — detail, order and organization. These you may also demand from others as well. But be careful. They don’t have your same astrological chart. Everyone comes forth with their strengths and abilities at different times.

LEO

SAGITTARIUS

Leos, when coming from the heart can be very loving. This is the best way to be a leader. Leos always apply their creative endeavors to daily life. I have a question. Would you like to be doing something different in your life where you are out and about in the wilds? Doing something that serves the animal (bird or fish) kingdom, offering food, shelter, medicine and comfort?

What is of comfort to you? Each one of us aligns with and nurtures one kingdom in particular. Which kingdom is for you?

Remember to also do your work with composure and inner poise, exhibiting no pressure toward self or others. You are being called to create and exhibit Right Relations with everyone, balancing leadership with friendship, keeping the two separate with finesse, elegance, grace and skill. This is quite a job. You most likely already display all of this. Now more is called for. In all areas of life bring forth Goodwill. Then you pass all the tests of discipleship.

TAURUS

VIRGO

It’s time to be practical and grounded, anchored and present. It’s You seem to have new level of vital energy. Perhaps it’s under the summer sun. You’re active with a new level of time to come home now, from either far away or self-confidence. You seem happy and enthusiastic to simply focusing on where you live in order (filled with God) and busy with various tasks. Does to bring order and organization to your environit seem there’s no time for relaxation? When you’re ments. It’s been a long long time (years?) since not working night and day, count your resources and blessings. you’ve been able to assess needs in your personal life. Since Should any concerns arise, remember the statement, “Don’t’ worry, you’re been focused outwardly, saving the world and ending be happy.” The “happy” helps bring the resources closer to you. to others, things as home could be quite in need of attention.

Seeking assistance is both sensible and practical.

CAPRICORN

Many days, weeks and months of work reach a summit. If you look back on the autumn of last year, you began a new endeavor or something new was brought to light in your creative life. Now it has reached a point of manifestation, of being seen in the world.

Perhaps this is you - always in a state of creative transformation and transfiguration. There are perhaps plans concerning travel, somewhere far away, experiencing another culture, foods, people? There’s a place for you as you meet the needs of another.

“Seacliff Inn” from page 17 Belonging to the heart of Santa Cruz County, our Aptos hotel has 148 guest rooms and suites, an expansive outdoor pool and stands on six acres of landscaped grounds with winding garden paths and entices you inside with all-new guest rooms and suites, perfect for tech travelers from Silicon Valley and family escapes from the LA traffic alike.

Seacliff Inn’s onsite restaurant, Sevy’s Bar + Kitchen, offers offer farm-to-table menus that feature ocean-fresh seafood, bountiful salads, Angus choice steaks, and other delights created from locally sourced ingredients on the Central Coast. Curated onsite amenities include flat-screen TVs, free high-speed Wi-Fi, outdoor pool & lounge chairs, and much more.

Seacliff Inn is located at 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos, CA 95003. Reservations can be made at www.seacliffinn.com or by calling 831-688-7300. The completed full refresh will conclude in late 2022.

••• acifica Hotels was formed in January of 1993 to consolidate the hospitality operations of Invest West Financial Corp., which has been involved in the acquisition, development, refurbishing and operating of quality hotel properties and other commercial real estate properties for over 30 years.

Today, Pacifica Hotels is the largest owner and operator of boutique hotels on the Pacific coast.

Pacifica’s 33 independent and flag properties in key California cities from San Diego to San Francisco, and Hawaii, feature outstanding locations, AAA 3-diamond ratings, upgraded amenities and high standards of guest service. For complete hotel descriptions and reservations, visit www.pacificahotels.com. n

P

LIBRA

GEMINI

Consider yourself seriously for a while. Allow yourself to think of all the things you need in all aspects of your life.

Consider your values and resources. Consider the state of your home and family, your relationships and money, your communication and sense of well-being. Are all these as they should be? And do you bring comfort, calmness, nurturance and ease to others? Assess these questions quietly over time. Allow all feelings to be acknowledged should they appear. Each feeling holds a message.

As you allow for more time for contemplation, recreation, play and rest, a spiritual essence begins to slowly permeate your daily life. This is good. It helps alleviate judgments and criticisms you may be carrying since childhood. Those judgments pervade your present life and although you may think you’re happy, if judgments about others persist, they are eventually projected upon all those around you. Even the best of relationships is affected. There is such a thing as forgiveness. It releases us in the same way truth does. Forgiveness offers us freedom.

CANCER

AQUARIUS

Tend to money carefully. Put money away for future needs.

Here is how to use one’s money. Tithe first.

Save second. Pay bills third. Pay for things needed fourth. Always tithe first. Why? This assures you a constant supply in terms of your life needs. When we give, more is returned to us. This is a universal law. Humanity has yet to learn this law of tithing. The new materialism is the sharing society. You can be a leader for humanity in this endeavor. In the meantime, carefully tend and care for your health.

SCORPIO

What changes, variations, fluctuations and adjustments You always wonder what is the truth of the matter in all (they may feel like revolutions) are appearing situations. You are very intuitive. And so in your daily life? What expansion is also it’s good to assess and glean the truth from simultaneously occurring? What new direction your feelings and senses. Then it is good to is being taken along with your new sense of share with others what it is you feel and sense self-identity? All these equal a shift in focus and activities. about everything, even themselves. When we speak the truth, Everything’s changing for you. It’s not just your perception. a clarity results, a trust is able to enter every relationship. Things you’ve waited for eventually appear. Now all you have When speaking the truth, we must be neutral, ask questions, to do is begin to organize it all without feeling overwhelmed. In time, with your participation, all will fall into place. be kind and courteous. Truth sets everyone free.

•••

PISCES

You find the need to shift and change your usual daily agendas.

What you have done in the past less and less of interest. You sift between work and rest.

Focus more on the rest aspect. Both can be felt as extremes. It’s important to find the way in between, the point of poise. This can be felt as a “razor’s edge.”

And it is. A crossroads is coming up. A decision, too. You need sensitive handling. Tend to yourself, your health, your money, values and resources with tender loving care.

Risa D’Angeles • www.nightlightnews.org • risagoodwill@gmail.com

18 / July 2022 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“Beloved Sister” from page 16 My parents died before me.

I am survived by my spouse, Steve Anders of Cottage Grove; seven siblings Jolande “Jondi” Gumz (Bill Condy), Joy Gumz (Frank Parth), Heidi Gumz-James (Guy James), Melanie Gumz (Jim Tindall), Diane (David) Gates, Matthew Gumz, and Mark (Amy) Gumz; one son, Joel (Jessica) Albers; four stepchildren Kelly (Brad) Whalen, Devon (Marissa) Anders, Megan (Nic) Hickey, Tyler (Brooke) Anders; seven grandchildren Peyton and Owen Albers, Talyn and Trista Whalen, Jackson and Charlotte Anders and Remington Hickey; one niece, Madison James, and seven nephews Bryan Condy, Ty James, Max Gulyas, Duncan Gates, Eric, Drew and Cole Gumz. n ••• To honor family members who have lived with the challenge of Huntington’s disease, consider sending memorials to the Huntington’s Disease Society of America.

“Covid Update” from page 15 At a press event filmed and posted on Twitter, President Biden said Dr. Ashish Jha, who heads White House Crisis Response, is “the guy that’s running the CDC for me these days basically.”

Data Mining n June 21, Josh Guetzkow, a PhD at Hebrew University, posted the CDC response to his Freedom of Information Act request asking if the CDC is analyzing the federal Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System for “safety signals” from Covid-19 vaccines.

This database, https://vaers.hhs. gov/, is where health care providers are to report adverse events after a vaccine. It was created after Congress passed a law in 1986 protecting vac-cine manufacturers from civil personal injury lawsuits and wrongful death lawsuits result-ing from vaccine injuries.

Observers were curious why there’s been no government study to evaluate if the injuries reported in VAERS were caused by a vaccine.

An early briefing document said, “The CDC will perform Proportional Reporting Ratio (PRR) data mining on a weekly basis or as needed.”

This would compare the proportion of an adverse event after getting a specific vaccine vs. the same adverse event after another vaccine. A higher rate would count as a safety signal to trigger a more thorough investigation.

The June 16 letter from FOIA Officer Roger Andoh to Children’s Health Defense said that “no PRRs were conducted by CDC. Furthermore, data mining is outside of the agency’s purview, staff suggest you inquire with FDA.” Guetzkow called PRRs “one of the oldest, most basic and most well-established tools of pharmacovigilance.”

Only a handful of countries, including China, Cuba, Venezuela, vaccinate children under 5. Denmark’s health minister, Seren Brostrom, has regrets, saying the country should not have vaccinated children for Covid.

Cases he highly contagious coronavirus Omicron subvariants have pushed up case numbers in California.

Santa Cruz County cases are on a rollercoaster, 1,715 on May 23, then 1,472 on May 26 and 1,705 on June 13, then 2,000 on June 27, and 1,871 on June 30.

On Wednesday, the state reported 25 people hospitalized with Covid, including two in in-tensive care, in Santa Cruz County.

With 55,000+ county residents having had the infection, natural immunity may be a factor.

The county posted four deaths in the past month. All fours were over 65 with medical conditions, and vaccinated.

Santa Cruz County updates the numbers on Mondays and Thursdays.

Santa Cruz County along with much of California is rated “medium” transmission by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on its COVID tracking map. Hotspots are Monterey County, Central Valley, Florida, Arizona and most of Oregon, all rated high risk.

Subvariants of omicron (and waning

O

T

immunity from vaccines) are behind the latest wave of cases.

The CDC said BA.4 comprises 36.6% of new cases and BA.5 15.7%. These subvariants have boosted cases -- snaring people who have been vaccinated – not deaths.

The state Department of Public Health reports test positivity, 23% in January, has ticked up from 1.7% to 13.2% and hospitalizations — 20,000 in January —dropped to 950 before reaching 3,400.

Test to Treat anta Cruz County offers “Test to Treat” sites, including the three OptumServe testing sites, open to anyone regardless of insurance or documentation status. To make an appointment, visit https://lhi. care/covidtesting/. The closest are the Santa Cruz County Governmental Center in Santa Cruz and the Felton library.

According to the Santa Cruz County Office of Education, cases in local schools peaked at 4,407 on Jan. 27, dropped to 44 on April 1, rose to 1,025 on May 23 and dropped to 442 on June 11, then 270 and now 299.

The 14-day positivity rate, 12.25% on January, dropped to .79%, then rose to 7.35% and dipped to 7.22%.

The Santa Cruz County Office of Education has completed 530,100 tests with Inspire Di-agnostics.

For those who test positive and are at risk of severe illness, the CDC recommends asking your doctor for a prescription for Paxlovid, pills developed by Pfizer for higher risk indi-viduals age 12 or older and given emergency use authorization by the FDA in December. Lagevrio, produced

by Merck, also got emergency use authorization for mild to moderate Covid.

Paxlovid side effects are: https:// www.fda.gov/media/155051/download The new subvariants are very contagious and make people miserable but are not dangerous as Delta.

There are more people hospitalized in California, triple from where it was — but ICU admissions are rising much more slowly, and the number of deaths per day has not spiked up.

The CDC estimates almost 60 percent of the populace — including 76% percent of children over age 5 — have had Omicron or another coronavirus variant.n •••

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Total COVID cases: 1,871

••• COVID Deaths: 266 As of June 29 Age 85 and older: 115 • 75-84: 62 • 65-74: 47 60-64: 15 • 55-59: 4 • 45-54: 10 35-44: 8 • 25-34: 5 Underlying Conditions Yes: 216 • No: 50 Vaccinated Yes: 32 • No: 234 Race White 153 • Latinx 90 • Asian 16 Black 3 • Amer Indian 1 Hawaiian 1 • Another 2 Gender Men: 136 • Women: 130 Location At facility for aged: 117 Not at a facility: 149

ACROSS

1. Kitchen boss 5. Churchill’s “so few” 8. Epochs 12. “Watch out!” on a golf course 13. East of Java 14. *Pinocchio’s state of being 15. Hard currency 16. Emanation 17. TV and radio 18. *Mr. Popper’s birds 20. Newspaper piece 21. *Like “Goosebumps Classic” 22. “What?”

23. *Richard Scarry’s Things That Go 26. Oxygenate, as in lawn

29. Skin cyst 30. Middle Eastern meat dish, pl.

33. Antonym of “yup” 35. Dispatch boat 37. Female sheep 38. Throat infection 39. Searching for E.T. org.

40. *”I think I can, I think I can...”, e.g.

42. *”____ Spot run!”

43. Accounting journal 45. *The Plaza Hotel resident of kids’ book fame 47. Long, long time 48. Caffeine-containing nut trees 50. Off-color 52. *Ludwig Bemelmans’ Parisian boarding school resident 55. Middle Eastern porter

56. Movie “____ Brockovich” 57. Karl of politics 59. In a cold manner 60. Obscenity 61. Middle of March 62. Fringe benefit 63. *Side for Green Eggs 64. Put in the outbox

DOWN

1. Chlorofluorocarbon, abbr.

2. Obstacle to jump through 3. Great Lake 4. Tiny fox with large ears 5. Two halves of a diameter 6. Like one in isolation cell 7. Evergreen trees

8. *Babar, e.g.

9. Thumb-up catch 10. Full of enthusiasm 11. *”The Little Mermaid” domain 13. Stock exchange, in Paris 14. Affair, to Emmanuel Macron 19. Michael Douglas’ 1987 greedy role 22. “For ____ a jolly ...”

23. *Clement Clark Moore’s famous beginning 24. Live it up 25. Join forces 26. Aid in crime 27. Bodies 28. *Athos’, Porthos’ and Aramis’ swords 31. *Corduroy or Paddington 32. Stiff grass bristle

34. *D’Artagnan’s sword 36. *It ends, according to Shel Silverstein 38. North American purple berry 40. ____ at Work, band 41. Give in 44. Worshipful 46. Isis’ brother and husband 48. Cause and effect cycle?

49. Abhorrence 50. RBG’s collar, e.g.

51. Arabic for commander 52. Screen 53. Lymphatic swelling 54. Like certain Steven 55. Senior’s fragile body part 58. New York time © Statepoint Media

Answers on 23 »

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / July 2022 / 19

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS COUNTY FAIR ENTRY INFO Most Entries due Thursday, August 25 The Santa Cruz County Fair, which will be Sept. 14-18, is using the ShoWorks online entry system this year for all departments.

For most entries, the deadline is Aug. 25. See https:// santacruz.fairwire.com/ Submitting your entries online will save you time on receiving day and help the fair display your items.

You can pay any entry fees by credit card online! Paying by credit card will incur a 3% processing fee. Checks can be dropped off at the fair office.

If you prefer paper entry forms, they are in the entry guide.

The first time you use the system, click on the blue button in the upper right corner of the page to create an exhibitor account using your name, address & email address. Youth exhibitors are asked to enter birthdate & age.

This year, everyone needs to create an account. Write down your password. Once your account is created, you can use the username and password each time you visit the system.

Use the blue buttons in the middle of the page to move to each step.

Find the department, division and class you wish to enter.

Departments are listed alphabetically with some departments broken into categories (Home Arts and Agriculture Horticulture.) Fill in the required fields, marked by blue asterisk (*), and any optional fields needed to describe your entry.

Have a virtual or live event you want to promote?

Send your information to info@cyber-times.com by July 25

Preschool Storytime Thursday, July 14, 11 a.m. – noon, Felton Library Patio Come join Librarian Jackie for stories, songs, and lots of fun for preschoolers and their caregiv-ers in our lovely Felton Community Room every Thursday.

Perry Yan’s Magic Show Wednesday July 20, 2 - 2:30 p.m., Boulder Creek Library Perry’s 30 minute magic show is a unique combination of sleight of hand and comedy. Perry is a family entertainer, so both kids and adults can expect a wonderful experience!

Fratello Marionettes RED CROSS DONATION DRIVES Saturday, July 23, 11 a.m. - noon, Scotts Valley Community Center The Red Cross sees about a 21% decline in blood dona- The Fratello Marionettes has been entertaining audiences tions during holiday weeks, including Independence Day. through the art of marionettes since 1989, continuing the When blood donations drop, so does the blood supply, tradition of classic marionette performances.

Germar the Magician- Germar el Mago making it extremely challenging to ensure blood is (Bilingual: Spanish / English) available when hospitals need it.

Tuesday, July 26, Noon – 1 p.m., Felton Library Patio Aptos Germar (aka Gerardo Martinez) is a Vallejo, California, Wednesday, July 6: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Resurrection USA based magician who strives to en-tertain and Church, 7600 Soquel Drive Saturday, July 9: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m., Twin Lakes Church, educate his audience through his magic and illusions.

2701 Cabrillo College Drive SUPPORT FOR MOTHERS OF SURVIVORS Ben Lomond Survivors Healing Center is offering online women’s support Friday, July 15: 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Ben Lomond, 9545 groups and mothers of survivors of childhood sexual abuse support group. The goals are to empower through a healing Love Creek Road process and prevent sexual abuse of children and youth.

Santa Cruz You are not alone. You are not to blame.

Tuesday, July 5: 9 a.m.

2 p.m., Chaminade Resort SCOTTS VALLEY LIBRARY TO REOPEN AUG. 6 More info: (831) 423-7601 or www.survivorshealingcenter.org and Spa, 1 Chaminade Lane The Santa Cruz Public Libraries, with the Friends of the Scotts Valley Library, announce the grand reopening of the Thursday, July 7: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., The Church of CABRILLO COLLEGE SUPERVISORY ACADEMY remodeled Scotts Valley Branch Library from noon-4 p.m. Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 220 Elk St. Begins Tues. July 19 (Virtual sessions begins Thurs. July 21) Watsonville Saturday, Aug 6, at 251 Kings Village Road in Scotts Valley.

Thursday, July 14: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Community Health Being a supervisor can be difficult! You have a lot of responsibility, and usually, very little training. This Trust of Pajaro Valley, 85 Nielson St. SANTA CRUZ PUBLIC LIBRARIES program is designed to change all of that! The Cabrillo ••• SUMMER READING PROGRAM College Supervisory Academy is designed to help you Visit https://www.redcrossblood.org/ Ongoing thru July 31 develop your skills and become a better supervisor.

Santa Cruz Public Libraries will offer a variety of Modules include essential communication skills, NATURE BOWL 2022: FAMILY CHALLENGE events, including circus, magic, and puppet shows, building trust, motivating employees, managing dancers, drumming, and a virtual interactive bilingual Back by popular demand, the California Department of performance, giving and receiving feedback, coaching Fish and Wildlife’s Nature Bowl 2022: Family Challenge presentation featuring Delrita the Elephant. employees and managing conflict. is open, with the deadline to The goal is to prevent summer learning loss.

You can pick and choose which modules are best for enter Wed., Aug. 31.

July 8: Slim Chance Circus: La Selva Beach, 2:30-3 you, or attend the entire 12-week academy.

CDFW’s North Central Region pm & Boulder Creek, 11-11:30 am .

To sign up and for more details, see: https://extension.cabrillo. initiated this family-friendly July 10: Cascada de Flores, Capitola, 3-4 pm and edu/classes/supervisoryacademy/ competition during the pandemic Santa Cruz City Hall garden, noon-1 pm. as a delightful and educational July 13: Rock Painting, Garfield Park, 1-2 pm SILTANEN PARK POOL UPDATE! July 19: Rock Painting, downtown Santa Cruz, 1-3 pm way for families to explore nature The Siltanen Park pool is being resurfaced and the Conclose to home — in their backyards, neighborhoods and July 20: Perry Yan’s Magic Show, Boulder Creek, tractor working on the project and County Environmental local wild areas — while having fun outside and working 2-2:30 pm Health found the project needs to expand dramatically. together to complete nature-related activities.

July 20: Perry Yan’s Magic Show, Garfield Park, Several features of the pool (stairs, etc) need to be redone The 2022 challenge includes two scavenger hunts, 11-11:30 am per updated codes. Council approved the additional work, one provided by CDFW and the other to be created by July 23: Fratello Marionettes, Scotts Valley Community but it means the pool will not open this summer at all. your family. There is also an extra credit element of Center, 11 am to noon This is a great disappointment to the community, but cataloging your found items – just like a scientist.

July 23, Fratello Marionettes, Anna Jean Cummings ensures the pool will be up to safety and construction To sign up and receive the Nature Bowl 2022: Family Park, 2:30-3 pm standards when it reopens.

Challenge packet, email genelle.treaster@wildlife.ca.gov July 26: Germar the Magician, Felton, noon to 1 pm . The Family Challenge packet is available at https:// July 26: Perler Beads, Garfield Par, 1-3 pm wildlife.ca.gov/Regions/2/Nature-Bowl ONGOING EVENTS July 30: Taiko Drumming, La Selva Beach, 1-2 pm There are incentives that encourage children and teens Mondays CANDIDATE FILING BEGINS JULY 18 to read. Upon signing up, children and teens receive an SCOTTS VALLEY ROTARY WEEKLY MEETING Atlantis Fantasyworld coupon they can use to select a book. Candidate filing begins for the Nov. 8 election. Visit 12:15 p.m., Online Zoom votescount.us for more information.

After completing 5 hours of reading, kids 0-11 Obtain Zoom link from President Patrizia Materassi at receive a free book to keep, and teens receive a (831) 334-2383. backpack with goodies. After reading 20 hours, kids SANTA CRUZ PUBLIC LIBRARY EVENTS Slim Chance Circus and teens receive a free scoop coupon from Penny Tuesdays Friday July 8, 11 - 11:30 a.m., Boulder Creek Library Ice Creamery. They also receive raffle tickets for Hilarious and inspiring family entertainment, Slim PET LOSS AND GRIEF SUPPORT VIA ZOOM completing activities incorporating STEAM, outdoor exploration, and creative expression while practicing Chance’s Circus of Possibilities is the perfect blend of 6 to 7:30 p.m., virtual meeting BirchBark Foundation’s Pet Loss and Grief Support thrills and skills to delight audiences of all ages. critical thinking, collaboration, and communication.

Parents are encouraged to read together with their children and participate in the Adult Summer Reading Program. Incentives include an SCPL Bookbag and raffle prizes, including a family pass to the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Everyone can participate in Summer Reading using the paper log or the Beanstack App. Visit any open branch of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries to sign up or go to https://santacruzpl. beanstack.org/reader365 For a list of all the Summer Reading Program activities, see www.santacruzpl.org/srp

20 / July 2022 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Zoom group offers a free support group, moderated by a licensed grief counseling therapist.

Register at https://www.birchbarkfoundation.org/griefsupport or call 831-471-7255.

Tuesdays thru October FELTON FARMERS’ MARKET 11 a.m.–6 p.m., at St. John’s Church, 120 Russell Ave., Felton The Felton Farmers’ Market is a treasured weekly gathering May through October, now running for over 30 years. It features Delicous Meals, EBT/SNAP, Live Music, Market Match and more!

Your support of regional agriculture and small, local businesses makes a difference. Follow us on Instagram or join our newsletter for up-to-date info and announcements. https://santacruzfarmersmarket.org/markets/felton/ Wednesdays thru Aug. 31 CAPITOLA TWILIGHT CONCERT SERIES 6-8 p.m., Capitola Village Esplanade Park bandstand Come out to see, hear, and dance to your favorite band playing your favorite genre of music whether it be blues, rhythm and blues, soul, funk, salsa & latin, or classic rock.

Bands appearing throughout the summer include the John Michael Band, Mike Hammar & The Nails, The Joint Chiefs Band, Live Again, Santa Cruz Latin Collective, Billy Martini Show, Jive Machine, Dirty Cello, B-Movie Kings, and the Digbeats.

Fridays through Sept 30 MIDTOWN FRIDAYS 5-8:30 p.m., Midtown Square, 1111 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz Featuring 25 local bands plus local eats and local artists and vendors.

The live music lineup presented by Off The Lip Radio Show includes (in order of appearance): July Dub Souljah • Superblume (Opening – Tatiana and the Treetop Band) • The Jive Machine • Otilia Donaire (Opening – Geoff Weers, Lead singer of The Expendables) August Fuse (Opening – John Michael sings Sinatra) • Pacific Roots (Opening – The Dead Kampers) • John Michael Van Halen Tribute Band • Locomotive Breath September The Joint Chiefs • Papiba & Friends • Anthony Arya Band • Sweet Voodoo • The Grand Finale See https://www.eventsantacruz.com/event/midtown-fridayssummer-block-party-2022/ Saturdays until Thanksgiving SCOTTS VALLEY FARMERS’ MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 5060 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley The Scotts Valley Farmers’ Market is open for the season at a new location, the Boys & Girls Club parking lot, as the Target shopping center is under construction.

Every week until Thanksgiving, farms and food businesses sell fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs, artisanal bread, and seafood. There will be cultural cuisine such as Chicken Foot or Dos Hermanos Pupuseria. New this year: Hidden Fortress Coffee sells pancakes, French toast, bacon and sausage.

Busy on Saturday? The Felton Farmers Market is open Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., at St. John’s Church, 120 Russell Ave., Felton, operating May-October.

Information: email info@santacruzfarmersmarket.org. https://santacruzfarmersmarket.org/markets/scotts-valley/ https://boysandgirlsclub.info/

DATED EVENTS Monday July 4

ROTARY CLUB FIRECRACKER RUN 8-9:30 a.m., West shoulder of Highway 9 (between Encinal St. and Golf Club Drive, Santa Cruz The 37th annual Santa Cruz Sunrise Rotary Club

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Firecracker 1K, 5K, and 10K Run will take place in Santa Cruz off Highway 9. It’s live this year.

Signups are online at https://runsignup.com/Race/CA/ SantaCruz/SantaCruzFIrecracker10Kand5K The fee is $20 for the Kid’s 1K, $40 for the 5K and $45 for the 10K. The participants will use the west shoulder of Highway 9 between Encinal Street and Golf Club Drive.

The event will also feature Medieval Swordfighting Demonstration From the Society for Creative Anachronism and Penny Hanna, viola da gamba.

More music by: Corelli • Monteverdi • Hassler • Merulo • Gabrieli • Symante • Bonelli • Hume Tickets are $55 at https://www.instantseats.com/index. cfm?fuseaction=home.venue&VenueID=59.

BOULDER CREEK 4TH OF JULY PARADE 10 a.m.-Noon, Highway 9, Boulder Creek The parade is sponsored by the Boulder Creek Business Association.

To prevent children from running into the street — where they could be struck — candy may not be thrown to the crowd.

Wednesday July 27

SPIRIT OF WATSONVILLE: 2022 PARADE Noon-2 p.m., Main St, Watsonville (St. Patrick’s Church to First St.) The Spirit of Watsonville 4th of July parade proceeds down Main Street. from St. Patrick’s Church to First Street.

Thousands of spectators line the route five to six people deep. Those wanting a front row seat, place their chairs along the route early in the morning of the parade date.

FELTON LIBRARY FRIENDS METTING 4 p.m., Felton Library Community Room, 6121 Gushee St The next Felton Library Friends meeting takes place in the Community Room. If you love the library and park, you are a Felton Library Friend and are invited.

Saturday July 30

TRUE LOVE CHRISTIAN MUSIC FESTIVAL 10 a.m–Sunset, Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Road True Love Christian Music Festival is coming to Aptos Village Park.

An unprecedented gathering of Bay Area churches and Christian musicians and songwriters will join with area nonprofits to provide free music, services (and food) to show the love of Jesus by loving our neighbors.

Saturday July 9 Shuttle buses provided by Monte Vista Christian School will run from Coastlands Church, Resurrection BOOMERIA ORGAN EXTRAVANGANZA Church and Twin Lakes Church parking lots to Aptos 1-5 p.m., Boomeria, 60 Verde Drive, Bonny Doon The Boomeria Organ Extravanganza in Bonny Doon Village Park throughout the event. will feature organists Bill Visscher, Martin Gaskell What is true love? The mission of this festival is to and Ann Thiermann, along with ensembles Bonny engage with our local community and ask and answer this question. n Doon Baroque and Reed St. Brass

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FEATURED COLUMNIST

How Your Tax Dollars Will Be Spent

By Bruce McPherson, Supervisor, Fifth District

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pproving the County’s budget each June may not seem like an exciting undertaking for most. But for me it is one of the best moments of the year, and this budget season did not disappoint.

Reading and reviewing the budget, which means receiving presentations from several County departments about the great work they do and the challenges they face, is a critical job of the Board of Supervisors. The budget approved on June 28 represented the tenth one I’ve worked on since taking office in 2013, and I am as impressed as ever with the breadth of services we offer, the caliber of workers we employ, and the strategic initiatives we address through our spending.

While a portion of our $1.03 billion budget is comprised of state and federal pass-through dollars to address health and human services, the County has a General Fund of more than $683 million that pays for public safety and other core functions, a few of which are new this year and deserve to be highlighted.

This budget provides the first full year of funding for the new Public Defender’s Office, which will launch in July with a team of County employees headed up by our first

Public Defender Heather Rogers following through our Collective of Results and Evi- reserves after tapping them during the decades of great service by our contracted dence (CORE), spending more than $6 million pandemic. indigent defense firm, Biggam Christensen in partnership with the City of Santa Cruz.

We are still hopeful the federal govThe competitive process was based ernment will increase our re-imbursement & Minsloff. We are also providing new staff resources for our Sheriff and District Attorney on a revised ranking system, but because for the $130 million in Covid-19 response while making progress on improvements to it resulted in some long-time awardees not funding incurred by the County. But as it receiving a grant, the Board agreed to make stands, we may not recoup as much as $19 Juvenile Hall.

Additionally, we are continuing to room for a few additional recipients and use million. work on our South County Service one-time money to provide a ramp-down I’ll close on a positive financial note. The Center, which will provide vital for those who had received large grants in Veterans Village in Ben Lomond received $6.4 county resources in Watsonville, the previous cycle but were not funded this million in Project Homekey funding from the and improving our land-use time. state. The first to receive the homelessness We were fortunate this year to provide grant in our County, the project expects to services through the combining of our Public Works the extra funding, thanks to additional house up to 20 veterans and family members and Planning functions into Human Services revenue from the state. in the former Jaye’s Timberlane motel, which a new Community Devel- We were also able to keep better pace with will undergo renovations. opment and Infrastructure rising expenses thanks to a majority of voters I hope you can attend the wonderful Department that will feature agreeing on the June ballot to increase the Scotts Valley Independence Day celebration a Unified Permit Center. We are County’s lodging tax and placing a fee on on July 3, and I wish everyone in District 5 a also assigning about $5 million single-use cups.

Happy Fourth of July and a great summer. n However, many economic indicators for our Measure D roadwork in ••• the coming year, which for Dis- predict a looming recession, which means As always, please contact my office at trict 5 will focus on the Felton likely belt-tightening in the future, which Fifth.District@santacruzcounty.us or 831-454area and Quail Hollow Road from makes me glad we also added back to our 2200 if we can be of assistance.

Glen Arbor Road to East Zayante “CZU Fire Grand Jury” from page 8 critical infrastructure or access and egress long-term property management plans, Road. routes, which are essential to protect the were factors in getting the awards.

We also We calculated that Santa Cruz The mixture of soil and plant community and provide safe movement. increased our material is noncombustible. The masThis survey is 12 years old.

County received at least $9 million in support for ticator is seeing use outside of projects Santa Cruz County received at least CalFire grants in 2020–2021. community funded by grants. $9 million in CalFire grants last year. If the CalFire grants may only be programs RCD runs chipping programs to County received a similar amount each awarded for projects on private land if facilitate creation of defensible space year, it would take 14 years to complete there is an imminent threat to public high-priority vegetation reduction. around buildings. rights of way or public infrastructure.

It is imperative the highest risk Expensive Wildfire does not respect landownhe Santa Cruz County WUI is 61 areas receive treatment first and not wait ership; a fire may start on private land and square miles, of which 59% has until the end of the 14 years. quickly spread to a nearby community Vegetation will be growing back; or critical infrastructure. The Santa Cruz residences.

There are 640 acres in a square mile, hence, after 14 years, it will be time to start Mountain Stewardship Network is the so there are 61 x 0.59 x 640 = 23,000 acres over. The County’s success in obtaining major player advocating for vegetationgrant funding means it is able to make management work on private land. of occupied WUI. Last year, two grants totaling $7.7 some progress. It would certainly be prefContract Expires in 2023 million ($3 million + $4.7 million) funded erable to complete the work in less time. he Santa Cruz County Fire RCD has achieved real obtaining vegetation-reduction projects on 1,384 Department serves the unincorpoacres (454 + 930), which works out to grants for vegetation reduction. In 2020– rated County, including Bonny Doon, 2021, the RCD obtained a $1.3 million Davenport, Loma Prieta, Corralitos, Las $5,600 per acre.

If these projects are representative of grant from the CalFire Early Action Cali- Cumbres, and South Skyline. This area the cost, then treating 23,000 acres would fornia Climate Investments Program for overlaps almost entirely with the State shaded fuel breaks along Summit Road. cost about $130 million.

Responsibility Area.

The willingness of the agencies This estimate includes vegetation “CZU Fire Grand Jury” page 23 reduction only on occupied WUI – not to partner with others, and to publish

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FEATURED COLUMNIST

Minestra di Verdura

Broccoli Rabe and Garlic Soup

T

Submitted by Joe Ortiz

crossword on 19 »

his savory soup is made with just enough pepper flakes to make Dad love it too.

After you taste the rich and amberJoe Ortiz green broth, you’ll know why it represents our bittersweet life in Queens.

Serves 2 1 bunch of broccoli rabe, washed and trimmed of half an inch of its bottom stem 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 yellow onion, peeled and sliced thin 6 to 8 cloves of garlic, smashed with the side of the knife, pealed and rough chopped ½ teaspoon pepper flakes 2 teaspoons salt, and pepper to taste 1 14-ounce can chicken broth 2 to 4 cups water grated Parmesan cheese for garnish a drizzle of olive oil In a medium casserole, place the olive oil, garlic, onion and, pepper flakes and sauté over low heat four to five minutes, until the aromatics are limp but not burnt.

Add the broccoli rabe, the salt and pepper and toss it with the oil several minutes just to coat and cook a bit.

Add the stock and water and turn up the heat. When the soup starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 20 minutes, until the greens get almost “mushy.” It’s the peasant way! Like Freddy the bookie used to say, “Trust me on this one.” And he knew a little about soup, too.

Classic Children’s Books © Statepoint Media

When it’s done, correct for salt, ladle into soup bowls, garnish with the grated Parmesan and a light drizzle of olive oil.

And mangia. n

Joe Ortiz Memoir: Episodes & Recipes

J

oe Ortiz’s memoir, Pastina — My Father’s Misfortune, My Mother’s Good Soup, became the framework for the musical Escaping Queens, which ran at Cabrillo Stage in 2012 and 2013.

In July, the Capitola Soquel Times began exclusive publication of episodes from the book — including a recipe shaping each installment. Go to tpgonlinedaily.com, the E-Edition.

“Using recipe descriptions to help tell a story seemed the perfect way to weave the angst of a father’s chaotic life with the salvation of a mother’s cooking,” Ortiz explains.

“CZU Fire Grand Jury” from page 22 County Fire is governed by the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors. It operates 10 fire stations; five are staffed by a combination of local professional and volunteer firefighters and five are staffed by CalFire firefighters.

The County Fire Chief serves as the local CalFire Chief.

We learned that the CalFire/County Fire Chief reports to the General Services Department, with only indirect access to the Board of Supervisors. We are concerned that this reporting relationship does not give sufficient visibility and priority to fire prevention.

In neighboring San Mateo County, the CalFire chief is a department head in the County government. San Mateo has about three times the population of Santa Cruz County. Even accounting for this, the San Mateo County Fire Department is considerably larger.

CalFire has a complex relationship with County Fire under a 1948 contract known as the Amador Contract.

CalFire has statutory responsibility for State Responsibility Areas within the County year-round, but they are fully staffed only during fire season.

The County pays for 24 seasonal firefighters working on CalFire engines for up to seven months when they would normally be laid off in the winter.

The County pays for CalFire to manage the volunteer firefighter system year-round, emergency response for the winter months, plus maintenance of vehicles.

The fire season used to be June through October, with a seven-month non-fire season.

This seems to be reversing, with seven months of fire season and five months of winter season becoming normal.

Since the County pays for the 24 firefighters for the months defined as winter, the County is paying significantly less. CalFire is effectively subsidizing the County.

However, CalFire sets priorities when it is paying for fire-protection service. These could include sending firefighters and engines to a fire out of County even when there is a fire in the County.

In comparison, San Mateo County funds 58 full-time firefighters and eight fire engines.

Staffing is no longer covered under the Amador Contract because it does not meet current labor law. There is a three-year contract, and this is the second year.

When the contract comes up for renewal in 2023, County Fire cannot rely on CalFire continuing an arrangement in which it subsidizes the County.

Fire protection funding comes from 0.5% of local property taxes, plus the CSA 48 fee collected from those residents, and inspection and plan-review fees. The total County Fire budget last year was $10.8 million.

The budget provides for the purchase of two new fire engines to replace ones deployed far beyond their expected life.

Santa Cruz County has an ongoing budget challenge. It is unrealistic to expect the County to allocate significant additional funds to wildfire prevention, even though this is sorely needed. Ideally, the County would pay for sufficient staff and fire engines, which would then be under its control and not subject to state priorities.

Although the County does not directly fund any ongoing vegetation-reduction projects, it did make a one-time purchase of a masticator. This is for projects that would not secure grant funding, such as on private land.

The masticator is used by CalFire personnel because they have training and insurance.

The County plans to increase the number of remote cameras from seven to nine to improve wildfire detection.

Volunteer fire departments everywhere have difficulty maintaining their workforce— due in part to significant and often onerous training requirements—and our County is no exception. This lack of staff frequently results in inadequate fire protection for rural communities. The Grand Jury was told 100 volunteer firefighters would be ideal, but only a small fraction of that number is able to maintain training requirements and respond to a call.

Conclusion e found vegetation reduction is the biggest challenge to achieving adequate fire resilience, and that dealing with it will take both resources and high prioritization from the County.

The bulk of vegetation reduction to enable safe movement is the responsibility of the County, local fire protection districts, CalFire, or a utility company such as PG&E. Our review of the many County organizations addressing wildfire protection did not find any published plans describing the prioritization process for vegetation-reduction projects.

The large number of agencies tasked with fire protection complicates the situation, although we did find clusters of collaboration among agencies.

We found the grants process is unwieldy and complex, and grants may be awarded to projects that do not have the highest priority for wildfire mitigation. However, the County is almost entirely dependent on grants.

Due to effective work by local agencies, the County is receiving much of what it needs to complete sufficient vegetation-reduction projects to eventually provide wildfire resilience.

We looked at the County Fire Department, its organization, budget, contract with CalFire, and reliance on volunteer firefighters. None of these aspects is ideal, and, taken together, are suboptimal for delivering adequate fire protection to rural communities in the Wildland Urban Interface.

Additional funds would be of benefit , but the Grand Jury recognizes that the County’s overall budget challenges mean this is not likely to happen without significant effort. Budget limitations mean reliance on volunteer firefighters will continue.

County Fire would benefit from increased visibility and priority within County government, and should report directly to the Board of Supervisors. County Fire should be doing much more to inform residents of their wildfire risk, and what the County is doing to mitigate it.

The Grand Jury has issued a number of investigative reports on fire protection over the past few years. A recurrent theme is the lack of attention that community protection and safe movement receives from the County government. This Grand Jury echoes that observation. n

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / July 2022 / 23

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