Scotts Valley Times: November 2024

Graham Hill Rd: 161 Homes Proposed

By Jondi Gumz

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COVER STORY

“The Haven” from page 1

This location is zoned single-family rural residential, 20,000-square foot lot minimum. Formico knows the property well as he lives on Graham Hill Road.

When a county does not have a stateapproved Housing Element, developers can tap into the Builder’s Remedy allowing projects with at least 20% affordable housing to bypass local zoning.

Graham Hill Road, once a toll road named for pioneer Isaac Graham, is four miles long between Santa Cruz and Felton, a beloved shortcut for residents in Scotts Valley.

The pasture, a long and narrow property along Graham Hill Road, has been used by the Santa Cruz County Horsemen’s Association, which owns the showgrounds on the other side of the road.

The development project, called The Haven, is proposed to be built on four parcels. According to the 65-page pre-application submitted to Santa Cruz County Planning, it would include:

• 117 market-rate single-family homes.

• 11 market-rate townhouses.

• 26 affordable townhouses for lowincome residents, limits set by state.

• 7 affordable townhouses for moderateincome residents.

• A clubhouse with post office boxes, health club, HOA office, and meeting room.

• Parking for 691 cars, 312 covered and 379 uncovered.

• 14.3 acres undeveloped and connected with existing hiking trails.

To the west is Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, known for hiking trails and horse trails.

The design of the homes would include Craftsman, farmhouse and bungalow.

Under the county zoning rules, this size of development on a two-lane county road would not be permitted, but the state Legislature has passed and Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a plethora of bills to make it easier for developers to build housing to address the shortage of housing statewide.

Santa Cruz County’s deadline for state Housing Element was Dec. 25, 2023.

That deadline was not met, opening the county up to the builder’s remedy.

Bryan Wenter, AICP, of Miller Starr Regalia, a law firm in Walnut Creek submitted a pre-application April 3, before the state approved the Housing Element, which mandates Santa Cruz County plan for 4,634 housing units by 2031.

In his letter, he wrote that the county could not deny the application based on zoning or the general plan.

He added that because 20% of the units will be affordable, the project is eligible for the state-offered density bonus, concessions and waivers of development and parking standards.

He also promised to submit a formal application within 180 days as required.

Under SB 330, declaring a statewide housing emergency and passed in 2019, housing project review requirements and timelines were changed through 2030.

The pre-application was submitted by Lance Tate, of Tate Development & Investment in Del Mar, which has completed projects in Cupertino, Hayward and San Jose. He’s an alum of Harker School, Menlo School and University of the Pacific.

Projects are subject to a maximum of five hearings before the county must act, according to Wenter.

An initial site assessment performed by Ecological Concerns identified 13 potential species of interest, according to the pre-application and an “Incidental Take Permit” is to be proposed as a mitigation.

Annexation Sought

I n July of this year, Formico applied to annex one parcel of pasture property into the San Lorenzo Valley Water District, the application indicating the purpose “is for the provision of water services to a future housing project.”

The application went to the Local Agency Formation Commission, which rules on annexation requests and requested feedback by Aug. 30.

LAFCO administrator Joe Serrano said the parcel is in the San Lorenzo Valley Water District sphere of influence and within the county’s urban services line but missing are the filing fee, a map and “initial study” to assess significant impacts or an environmental impact review.

“Until I get those, I can’t deem application complete,” Serrano told Scotts Valley Times.

According to Gine Johnson, analyst in county Supervisor Bruce McPherson’s office, the Planning Department is reviewing the application and will render “an opinion to the applicant soon in writing.”

She added, “Unless the application meets basic thresholds regarding the zoning and other factors, which prior proposals for this property did not, the application will get its response from Planning but it’s unlikely to move forward unless those basic thresholds can be addressed sufficiently.”

If the developer completes an environmental review, that document would be posted on the website of the planning department, renamed Community Development and Infrastructure at https://cdi. santacruzcountyca.gov/UPC/GetInvolved/ PublicMeetingsHearings.aspx

The project goes to the County Planning Commission, which makes a recommendation to the County Board of Supervisors, which holds a public hearing. n

Patrice Edwards editor

Jondi Gumz contributing writers

Jondi Gumz, Alexandra Morairty, Edita McQuary, Risa D’Angeles, Randy Johnson distribution

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Cathe Race

Michael Oppenheimer, Camisa Composti website

Michael Oppenheimer photography

COMMUNITY NEWS

Soquel Drive: 470 Affordable Rentals?

Groppetti Lot Sold for $10 Million

Story and Photos By Jondi Gumz

For years, people complained: Not enough affordable housing was being built in Santa Cruz County.

Now a one-mile stretch of Soquel Drive — the Groppetti lot and the Rittenhouse lot — where residents have complained about traffic is where developers propose to build 289 and 181 affordable apartments, respectively.

That’s not counting Soquel Senior Living, 82 suites, under construction at the former Inner Light Ministries, 5630 Soquel Drive, and the newly proposed 130-bed senior residence at 2650 Soquel Drive, replacing the beloved Silver Spur café.

Santa Cruz County is mandated by the state to plan for 4,634 housing units by 2031 to meet household growth forecasts, and these projects if built would make progress toward that goal and provide new options for baby boomers who are becoming senior citizens.

However, seeing so many proposals of higher density stunned Soquel resident Lisa Sheridan.

“There’s no aesthetics, no trees, no parks nearby,” she said. “I wish there was some recourse to say stop. There doesn’t seem to be parameters that are reasonable.”

Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) has authored more than a dozen housing bills that are now law to address that state’s housing crisis. For example:

SB 50, allows more housing for families and working people near transit and jobs, SB 937, allows developers to defer paying impact fees until their project is built, SB4, allows churches and synagogues to build affordable housing on their property, SB 902, allows local governments to zone infill neighborhoods up to 10 units per parcel.SB 35, streamlines approval process when local governments do not meet housing goals.

And there’s the builder’s remedy tucked

into a 1990 law, which allows developers to ignore a local zoning if the local government has failed to plan for enough housing.

No Master Plan

It’s hard to say how much housing development is appropriate on Soquel Drive.

Santa Cruz County does not have a master plan for its main artery, although Soquel Drive is the county’s medical corridor and home to Dominican Hospital and Sutter Maternity & Surgery Center.

The Sustainable Santa Cruz County envisions higher-density housing close to employment centers and talks about increasing housing specifically on Soquel Drive close to jobs, adding retail and services and creating new public gathering places. That plan does not offer numbers but the Housing Element calls out 25 opportunity sites, which could yield 1,160 housing units.

The inventory lists more than 30 properties on Soquel Drive in Soquel and unincorporated Santa Cruz with the Rittenhouse lot, a potential of 170 units.

The vacant flea market lot owned by Sutter Health, 2260 Soquel Drive, is listed with a potential of 158 units but most other Soquel Drive locations are eyed for 20 or fewer housing units.

Since last year, County Public Works has been carrying out a $30 million grant-funded transportation project on Soquel Drive to improve bicycle safety — protected lanes replacing parking for cars — and pedestrian safety — sidewalks with flashing beacons — and reduce congestion by replacing 22 pre-programmed traffic lights with lights that change based on sensor data.

This construction is expected to be complete in spring or summer 2025.

“Groppetti Lot” page 7

Homecoming: Don’t Stop the Beat

By Alexandra Morairty

Editor’s note: Did you miss Homecoming? No worries, we have the inside scoop.

Scotts Valley High School celebrated Homecoming — and its 25th anniversary — Oct. 15-19 with the theme: “Don’t Stop the Beat.”

Each class took on a different genre of music. The seniors were country, juniors pop, sophomores rap, and freshmen rock and roll.

Throughout the week there were spirit dress up days, starting with “Adam Sandler Tuesday,” “White Lies Wednesday,” “Barbie vs. Army Thursday,” and “Class Theme Friday.”

Each day, there were Homecoming court games, so the rest of the student body got to know those students a little better leading up to the royal vote on Friday, October 19.

The school week ended with our annual Homecoming rally on Oct. 18, which included the school band, the cheer team, a mayoral proclamation from Scotts Valley Mayor Randy Johnson recognizing 25 years of education and community involvement, talents by the Homecoming court, and the class lip syncs including the teachers who put together a disco themed lip sync.

The sophomore class was the lip sync winner. Students and staff received shirts donated by BSN & printed on by the Parent Club to commemorate 25 years of Scotts Valley High School.

The Hall of Fame dinner for the 2024 inductees and their families was hosted at The Back Nine that night.

Our celebration continued on Saturday, Oct. 19, with the Homecoming parade along Scotts Valley Drive. Each class showed off their floats decorated to match their class theme!

Additionally, there was a cheer, football, Measure O, past Parent Club and Falcon club board members, Scotts Valley Police Department and Scotts Valley High School alumni float! Convertibles from the Santa Cruz Mustang Club carried our 2024 Homecoming Court as well as two of the 2023 Homecoming Court members, alumni Isabella Alavarez and Martin Chagolla-Mata. The parade concluded at Scotts Valley High School, where the community gathered to watch both JV & Varsity football games, enjoy a live concert by James Durbin & the Lost Boys Unplugged, food trucks, a Future Falcons Festival of carnival games.

“Homecoming” page 10

Photo Credit: Leigh Jones

First place Homecoming float: Senior Saloon.

Photo Credit: Abby Howell

“Our Last Rodeo,” gym decorated by seniors for the Homecoming rally.

Scotts Valley Drive: Four Lanes & Here’s Why

Ya Gotta Believe — Those words were brought to life by the New York Mets in 1973, when trailing badly in the baseball pennant race they passionately voiced that slogan. And it seemed to work, as they ultimately prevailed and won the National League pennant, only to lose the World Series to the Oakland Athletics.

An enduring remnant of that phase has come to derive that if you boldly hold and cherish a belief strong enough, that by the will of your determination, it will come to pass. It’s a noble, almost mystical position, but often an exception to the rule of logic and rationale.

At our last City Council meeting, we were tasked with evaluating several options on the future of Scotts Valley Drive and directing staff to further study those preferences and bring back data to the city council for a final vote.

The options were varied and compelling. They fell into a couple of camps: Status quo and keep Scotts Valley Drive’s configuration pretty much intact or “evolve” into a more enlightened, pedestrian and bicycle-friendly vision for the road.

It made for a very interesting meeting.

Prior to the meeting, the council was inundated with scores of emails, supporting the concept of putting the Drive on a lane diet and reduce the number of lanes from 4 to 2, while boldly enhancing the separation between cars and bicyclists with protected bike lanes.

The pleas were heartfelt, many revolving about the fact that Scotts Valley Drive is neither terribly inviting, nor beautiful, and

“Groppetti Lot” from page 5

With so much development to bring people to live on Soquel Drive, residents who heard about the Silver Spur senior housing voiced concerns about impacts on traffic, sewer and water.

The Groppetti lot, 2.58 acres at Soquel Drive and 41st Avenue, previously proposed for a car dealership, is proposed for affordable rentals — 289 units in 6-story buildings.

The Rittenhouse lot, 6.26 acres on Soquel Drive — for years, the place to buy pumpkins and Christmas tree — is proposed for affordable rentals.

Anton Development of Sacramento has submitted plans to the county for Anton Solana, 181 apartments in 3- to 5-story buildings and 257 parking spaces.

The concept is for workforce housing with below market rents; the income limit has yet to be announced.

There is no mention of a requirement that tenants work in Santa Cruz County. To join the interest list see https://antonsolana.com/ Groppetti Details

On Oct. 3, Cushman & Wakefield announced the sale of vacant land at 41st Avenue and Soquel Drive in Soquel acquired for a Nissan dealership, with plans to build a $200+ million apartment complex with 289 affordable rentals.

By Randy Johnson, Mayor, City of Scotts Valley

most importantly, not safe for parents to let their kids walk or ride their bikes to school.

The safety argument is accurate, if not statistically, certainly from a bicyclist’s standpoint.

As a casual biker myself, I have felt unsafe within a 5-footwide bike lane that exposes you to cars, often traveling at 40 miles per hour, that come within a few feet of your person.

People spoke passionately in favor of this option.

There were, however, competing scenarios that advanced the proposition of both enhancing bicycle safety, but preserving the 4 lanes of the drive. And there was passion on that end as well.

One email succinctly stated the point, “Are you seriously

The buyer, Pacific West Communities, Inc. paid $10.35 million.

It was offered for $9.85 million.

Pacific West Communities, with development partner Linc Housing, plans to build two 5-story multi-family buildings over a podium garage with 240 parking stalls and an elevator.

Proposed are:

• 103 one-bedroom units (636 SF)

• 13 larger one-bedroom units (709 SF)

• 22 two-bedroom units (834 SF)

• 33 three-bedroom units (1,140 SF)

Common amenities are expected to include laundry facilities, on-site management, and a community room, a fitness center and playground.

The new buildings would comprise 333,255 square feet.

Reuben Helick, managing director with Cushman & Wakefield, facilitated the land sale.

He said, “This new exciting, high quality residential development will bring much needed affordable housing to the residents of Soquel and the broader Santa Cruz County/ Central Coast market and aligns favorably with the desires of many in the community.”

The seller was Blam Jade LP, owned by Don Groppetti, of the Groppetti Automotive Family, which after gaining county approvals in 2018 to build a Nissan dealership, decided not to proceed.

thinking of removing a car lane to add bicycle lanes? What kind of traffic nightmare are you exactly trying to create?”

I would characterize the general theme of those opposing reducing the 4 lanes with a sense of incredulity, as if the reduction was a true regression for the city.

In the end, on a split vote, the council voted to recommend the 4-lane option for further study, with enhanced safety for bikes and pedestrians. These features included expanding the width of the bike lanes from 5 to 11 feet, by reducing the width of both the median and the car lanes by a foot.

My essential argument was that I felt the community would not support the 2-lane option and its price tag of $12 million for the alternate option was simply too expensive.

In addition, a similar experiment of reducing lanes on Portola Drive in Midcounty had failed badly.

Scotts Valley often has a way of compromise and meeting in the middle and I think this decision reflected that.

In a postscript, there were some who were angry that the council would even contemplate a “lane diet.”

I look at it differently.

Passionate advocates, who are aspirational, offer a portal for us to look through for ways to enhance our future. Without dreamers, we would still be using phonebooks, disposable cameras and pagers. So to them, there is always the next topic or proposition, while remembering, “Ya gotta believe.” n

Randy Johnson is mayor of Scotts Valley. Email him at rlj12@ comcast.net.

That left the lot surrounded by chainlink fence.

Groppetti, who has dealerships in Visalia, bought 1.3 acres for $5.44 million for a Nissan dealership, encouraged by then county economic development manager Andy Constable.

Soquel residents, organized under the banner of Sustainable Soquel, sued Groppetti, claiming the project represented a departure from a community-backed plan for the area and the county’s environmental review of the project violated state law.

Soquel residents wanted smaller-scale development with businesses to serve the neighborhood.

The Sustainable Santa Cruz County plan, dated 2014 and created with input from 16 public workshops, called for a variety of housing types, such as 2- to 3-story apartments or a “medium-scale” building with apartments atop first-floor businesses.

In 2019, then-Superior Court Judge Paul Burdick ruled that the environmental impact report for the dealership didn’t analyze a range of alternatives as the California Environmental Quality Act requires.

The Sustainable Santa Cruz County plan has now been trumped by a state mandate to plan more housing — 4,634 units by 2031 — and a new state law SB 35 that stream-

lines housing construction when cities and counties have not built enough.

Kings Paint, which used to sit at the corner, relocated to 41st Avenue in Capitola and its former store was demolished, along with a well-used car wash.

Helick said this is “a prime intersection that is also convenient to Highway 1, making it highly accessible for commuters as well as walkable to an abundance of retail, shopping, restaurant, and recreational activities surrounding the project.”

Cushman Wakefield reported the buyer separately acquired an additional ±0.12 acres (5,000 sf) of land abutting the ±2.58-acre sale site, bringing its total ownership to ±2.7 acres to develop affordable housing. n

COMMUNITY NEWS

First Female Police Chief: Sarah Ryan

On Oct. 24, the City of Capitola announced that Capt. Sarah Ryan will become the city’s next chief of police, succeeding Chief Andrew Dally, is retiring after a 29-year career with Capitola.

Capt. Ryan will make history as the first woman to serve as a police chief in Santa Cruz County.

She is the highest-ranking female officer in Capitola’s history.

Capt. Ryan, who joined the Capitola Police Department in 2005, has held numerous roles within the department, including patrol operations, recruitment and training, sergeant, detective, field training officer, and most recently, administrative captain.

The announcement said she has demonstrated a commitment to public service marked by compassion and professional integrity.

For 10 months, she has been part of the team with Detectives Zack Currier and Jackie Yeung working on a missing person case that turned into a homicide investigation.

Alice “Alyx” Kamakaokalani Hermann, 61, was reported missing in December, and her remains, confirmed with DNA, were found in Tilden Regional Park in Berkeley. An audio recording from her phone was key in the case.

Her boyfriend, Theobald “Theo” Lengyel, 54, of El Cerrito, a saxophonist in the ‘80s band Mr. Bungle, was found guilty of first-degree murder this month and faces life in prison when he is sentenced.

His arrest was made in collaboration with El Cerrito Police, the Santa Cruz County

She also experienced discrimination manufacturing high end glass, which she countered with “humor and scathing verbal attack.” Browder, who has five children, takes pride in dropping them off at school.

She is asked, “Where do you find the time?” adding, “Male CEOs are not asked that.”

Her solution: No meetings at 7:30 a.m.

“That is my time,” she said. “The world kept going and got better.”

District Attorney’s Office and the state Department of Justice

After Lengyel’s arrest Capt. Ryan posted on LinkedIn, “My condolences to survivors, you are an important part of work that law enforcment does.”

Capt. Ryan also was integral to the planning of a parade in Capitola Village to honor the Soquel High football team after they won the state championship last year.

Mayor Kristen Brown said, “We are excited to welcome Sarah Ryan to her new role with the City as our Chief of Police. With her exceptional track record of service, leadership, and commitment to our community’s safety, she brings a wealth of experience that will further strengthen our amazing police department. I am confident that under her leadership we will continue to enhance public trust and transparency, ensuring Capitola remains a safe and welcoming place for all.”

Capt. Ryan is a graduate of Leadership Santa Cruz County (Class 35) . She has a bachelor’s degree in social work from San Jose State University and a master’s degree in law enforcement and public safety leadership from the University of San Diego.

A Santa Cruz County native and a graduate of San Lorenzo Valley High School, she resides with her family just outside Capitola and maintains deep ties to the community, fostering long-standing relationships with residents, business owners, and the city’s workforce.

When asked about her vision for the role, she said, “It is essential to create conditions of trust because WE are always our strongest together.” n

DeLa Garza, who runs an $11 million organization assisting people living in poverty, said, “Believing I am enough.”

Asked about stereotypes, Browder, who headed a nonprofit in Rhode Island

before coming West, said, “The assumption I don’t know how to read financial reports or fundraise.”

“Women in Business” page 18

Sarah Ryan

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

From left, MariaElena De La Garza, Keisha Browder, Ann Morhauser and Lauren Seaver.

Need Home Care?

Exceptional Caregiving Services For Elders & Adults with Disabilities

“Homecoming” from page 6

At halftime, they saw the float parade and the crowning of our “Royals,” Soraya Westlund and Prathik Kurella.

The senior class took home the winning float prize.

Guests also enjoyed an SVHS trivia contest; a display of old yearbooks; a 25-year SVHS timeline; and a guest book for everyone to sign hosted by the SVHS 25 Year Committee.

At 7 p.m., the 2024 Scotts Valley High School Falcon Club Hall of Fame inductees were introduced by Superintendent Tanya Krause and Principal Joe Allen, followed by an alumni photo on the field for all alumni in the crowd. With about 1,400 guests in attendance, everyone had something to do!

By the end of the night, Varsity beat Watsonville with an astonishing 48-14 score.

The evening came to a close as the senior class hosted the annual Homecoming dance with the theme “Don’t Stop the Beat.”

Homecoming was a success because of the help of more than 100 volunteers helping to pull off this amazing community event.

We want to thank Garrison Inc. for driving several of our floats as well as the Santa Cruz Mustang Club! Another thank you to the 25 Year Committee and Measure O for supporting the school throughout this crazy time. n

Alexandra Morairty is Associated Student Body president at Scotts Valley High School.

Photo Credit: Abby Howell

Homecoming Court 2024 (from left): Alexa Ruiz, Rayne Leonetti, Abby Howell, Tito Palma-Dole, Soraya Westlund, Prathik Kurella, Lincoln Matlock, Lilly Watson, Ian Jory, and Drew Jesse.

Great Clips Grand Opening Celebration

Thursday Nov. 14, 5-8 p.m. | Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 5:30-7 p.m.

The Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce and Great Clips in Scotts Valley invite you to join them on Thursday, Nov. 14, for a very special Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening Event. Light refreshments will be served. This free event is open to the Community.

Great Clips is excited to get to know their new neighbors! Ray Solnik is opening this new location in addition to the other two Great Clips he operates in Santa Cruz County.

Ray loves the relaxed vibe in Santa Cruz and enjoys spending time at the salons when also hanging out at the beach.

Great Clips is a nationally recognized brand with over 4,400 hair salons across North America. Every location is locally owned, so customers gain the benefit of sensitivities to the local community along with the benefits of a large company like technology, training and more.

Great Clips operators work hard to make it easy for customers to get a great haircut at a great price at a time and place that’s convenient for you.

It’s also easy for customers to make Great Clips their hair salon of choice with Online Check-In and Clip Notes®

Learn more by visiting the Scotts Valley Great Clips soon.

Great Clips

Located in the Scotts Valley Square (Target) Shopping Center

The Exchange Club of Scotts Valley Presents ‘Light

December 7, 5-7:30 p.m.

The Scotts Valley Community Holiday Tree next to Walgreens will be lit on December 7, 2024, from 5-7:30, continuing a tradition dating 30 years. This special community event benefits Valley Churches United and is a wonderful family event, enjoyed by guests of all ages!

Scotts Valley Firefighters will deliver Santa and Mrs. Claus to the Community Center to greet guests and enjoy free photos with kids and families. Local talented Scotts Valley Community members will provide entertainment. Unwrapped new toys will be accepted by

the Scotts Valley Police Officers Association. Valley Churches United will be on hand to accept canned food or other donations. Look for their food barrels showing up around town soon!

Hot Chocolate, Cider, Coffee, and cookies will be provided by local service clubs, along with a food truck for heartier fare.

Sponsors that would like to support the effort can contact Victor Alejandro at victor.alejandro. usa@gmail.com or (408) 410-1566 or Donna Lind at dlindslind@gmail.com or (831) 438-4187.

266 Mt. Hermon Road, Suite T

Hours: Mon - Fri 9am - 8pm Sat - Sun 8:30am - 6pm

Phone: 831-281-3308 Website: www.greatclips.com

up the Night’!

Saturday December 7

360 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley

Thursday Jan. 16, 2025 Grand Opening & Red Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 5:30-7pm — Fintastic Fish 224-C Mt. Hermon Rd., Scotts Valley

Friday

Saturday August 16

August

Scotts Valley Chamber News

Chamber Ambassadors in the News

Joe Bac Hired as KPIG’s Newest Disc Jockey

TJarvis Chamber Ambassador

he Scotts Valley Chamer is proud to announce that one of our own Ambassadors, Joe Bac, has been hired as KPIG’s newest disc jockey and on-air personality.

Joe has been the Entertainment Chair of the Scotts Valley Art Wine & Beer Festival since 2016 and was officially voted in as Chamber Ambassador two years ago.

As Festival Chair, Joe works closely with the Chamber to book and schedule all of the bands and entertainment for the festival each year.

It was in this capacity that Joe formed a relationship with the staff at KPIG, a sponsor of the festival, and when the opportunity presented itself, Joe seized the moment.

Joe says that he dreamt of

being a DJ since early childhood, when he and friend would pretend that they had their own radio show.

He also says that years of speaking at corporate functions, performing as a musician, and being on several radio shows, gave him the confidence to pursue this opportunity. “Dreams do come true!”, says Joe. Joe Bac has been a local Scotts Valley resident since 2005 and previously worked for Hewlett Packard from 19792018. He and his “high school sweetheart”, Marge, have been married for 44 years and have two children: Johnny (28) and Jenna (26).

You may also recognize Joe from performing in the Shady Rest Band which he and Cheryl Rebottaro created in 2016.

Some of Joe’s hobbies include mountain biking, golfing, do-it-yourself projects, and everything music including guitar building and repair as well as recording music in his home studio.

In addition, Joe volunteers regularly for the Scotts Valley Police Department and San Agustin Parish.

Newest & Youngest Chamber Ambassador:

Cody Jarvis, an alumni of Scotts Valley High School’s Class of 2023, serves as the Student Trustee for Cabrillo College and is the Treasurer for Region IV of the Student Senate for California Community Colleges.

Region IV encompasses 12 colleges, representing over 100,000 students from over the hill to Salinas, making Student Trustee Jarvis’s role pivotal in advocating for the interests and needs of a large and diverse student body. He also serves on the Community College League of California’s Student Trustee Advisory Committee, where he offers valuable insights on legislation and policy.

Beer & Wine Festival for the past three years and has volunteered at the chamber’s award gala for the last two years.

Take the 2024 Business Survey

The Scotts Valley Economic Development Committee (formerly the Economic Recovery Task Force) is a collaboration between the Chamber of Commerce and the City of Scotts Valley.

During the Pandemic and the CZU Fires, this Committee rose to meet those challenges, providing vital assistance and information, including signage, reopening kits, grant & loan assistance, as well as informational webinars.

These efforts helped several businesses survive those difficult times, and the committee was even recognized as Organization of the Year for its efforts.

Now, the committee is looking at the road ahead and wants to continue making a tangible difference in helping our local businesses.

To that end, the committee wants to “take the temperature” of the current business climate, and for this they need your help!

If you are a business owner, please take a few minutes to fill out the survey which can be found at scottsvalleychamber.com.

It is the Committee’s hope that the information gathered in this survey will serve as “roadmap” in the year to come as the Committee sets its future goals and continues to meet the needs of our local businesses.

As the youngest Chamber Ambassador in Scotts Valley’s history, Student Trustee Jarvis brings a fresh perspective and unwavering dedication to his community.

He has been a vital part of the paid staff team for the Art,

Celebrating 43 Years of Managing & Selling Homes throughout Santa Cruz County — 1981 – 2024

$4000/mo Large Tranquil 1BR/1BA Home at 138 Locatelli Lane in Scotts Valley. 1200 sq ft upstairs unit. Hot tub. Yard. Deck. Garden. A pet considered with additional deposit. Some utilities included. AVAIL NOW

$3400/mo 2BR/1BA Sunny Home with large flat fenced yard. This quiet home is located at 14275 Big Basin Way 1 mile from downtown Boulder Creek. Many new upgrades through out. Carport, driveway parking and a large storage building. Pet friendly. AVAIL NOW

$3200/mo 2-story stand-alone 2BR/2BA Condo at 39 Quien Sabe in Scotts Valley. D/W. W/D. Upstairs deck. Single-car garage. 1 cat ok. HOLIDAY SPECIAL: $600 off of 2nd month’s rent. AVAIL NOW

$2910/mo 3BR/1BA Single-level Duplex Unit at 24895 Skyland Road in the Santa Cruz County mountains of Los Gatos (near the Summit Store). W/D incl. Patio. Yard. Great commute location. HOLIDAY SPECIAL: $600 off of 2nd month’s rent. AVAIL NOW

$2100/mo 1BR/1BA Apartment in a Duplex at 889 Hillcrest in Felton. Yard. No laundry onsite. 1 pet ok. HOLIDAY SPECIAL: $400 off of 2nd month’s rent.

$2100/mo 1BR/1BA Apartment at 14630 Two Bar Rd #2 in Boulder Creek. Small patio. No Pets. AVAIL SOON $1750/mo Studio Cottage at 13070 Redwood Avenue #4

Student Trustee Jarvis’s commitment to community service has earned him several accolades, including the Modern Woodmen Hometown Hero Award. His passion for making a positive impact and serving his community makes him a standout leader.

Scotts Valley

Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce

Stay Ahead of Rent with SCC Credit Union’s Affordable Rental Assistance Loan

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Rental Assistance Loan?

The Rental Assistance Loan has a 0% APR§, which means you pay back only what you borrow — no interest! Borrow up to $5,000 without extra fees to open or maintain the loan.§ All you need to provide is your rental agreement and proof of employment.

Funds are limited, so apply immediately online at www.scccu.org, in

person at any SCCCU branch, or by phone at 831-425-7708. And ITINs are always welcome.

At SCCCU, it’s all about helping members thrive. You’re not just a number here—you’re part of a movement that supports financial empowerment.

§APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Funds are limited. Fees may apply if you do not fall within the program’s income guidelines. The credit amount granted is based on the member’s FICO score. Members must use direct deposit to repay the loan; however, arrangements can be made if your employer doesn’t offer direct deposit.

Stay Connected with Scotts Valley!

Sign up for the City of Scotts Valley Newsletter

Are you eager to stay informed about the latest happenings in our community?

The City of Scotts Valley invites you to subscribe to our bi-weekly public newsletter and follow us on social media!

Our newsletter is your go-to source for essential updates on local government initiatives, community events, and important announcements.

Delivered right to your inbox, it’s the perfect way to stay connected with your City. Sign up for the newsletter today at scottsvalley. gov/newsletter

In addition to our newsletter, we actively share news and insights on our social media platforms. Follow us on Facebook at facebook. com/cityofscottsvalley and on Instagram @ cityofscottsvalley for real-time updates,

Our newsletter is your go-to source for essential updates on local government initiatives, community events, and important announcements.

engaging content, and opportunities to participate in community discussions.

Don’t miss out on the chance to be in the know! Staying informed is a great way to make your voice heard and engage with your local government.

Together, let’s strengthen our community and make Scotts Valley an even better place to live!

Now Accepting Nominations for the 2024 Scotts Valley Community Awards

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

Please send us your 2024 nominations for outstanding businesses and individuals for the following categories:

• Alvin Scarborough Memorial MAN OF THE YEAR

• Annette Marcum Memorial WOMAN OF THE YEAR

• YOUTH OF THE YEAR

• EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR

• BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

• ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR

• Claire Hodgin Memorial BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT OF SCOTTS VALLEY

•••

Criteria for Nomination

• Each nominee must have made a valuable contribution to Scotts Valley.

• It may be in the previous year or over a period of time which you specify.

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

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

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

•••

Nominating is Quick and Easy! Go to ScottsValleyChamber.com and help us honor the leaders of our community.

Scotts Valley Chamber News

Member Spotlight Bay area Floors

Bay Area Floors, a trusted name in the flooring industry, has served the Santa Cruz community for over 35 years, with multiple locations, including their newest in Scotts Valley.

Known for their expertise and commitment to quality, this full-service flooring

company offers a wide range of options to transform any space.

Whether it’s the timeless elegance of hardwood, the comfort of carpet, or the sleek look of tile, Bay Area Floors provides tailored solutions for residential and commercial projects alike. Their dedication to customer

satisfaction is evident in their comprehensive approach. They not only install new flooring but also offer expert design services to guide customers through the selection process, ensuring every choice enhances the beauty and functionality of a space.

Additionally, their professional crew handles all aspects of flooring removal, making transitions to new floors seamless and hassle-free.

Bay Area Floors’ reputation for excellence is built on their ability to combine high-quality materials with exceptional craftsmanship.

Their team stays up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in flooring, offering innovative solutions that meet the diverse needs of modern homes and businesses.

Whether it’s creating a cozy, comfortable atmosphere or a sleek, contemporary look, they provide personalized service, guiding clients from start to finish.

With a history of satisfied customers and a deep commitment to the Santa Cruz area, Bay Area Floors continues to be a go-to resource for flooring that stands the test of time, combining beauty, durability, and unmatched customer care.

Located at 245 Mt Hermon Rd, Scotts Valley

Valley Churches United Opens Annual

Holiday Gift Shop

The Annual Holiday Gift Shop at Valley Churches United in Ben Lomond opens on November 1st.

The gift shop is open Monday through Saturday from 11 AM to 4 PM. Amazingly talented volunteers have created an exquisite display, making this year’s gift shop an exceptional holiday shopping experience. The gift shop features holiday décor for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. Come find the perfect items for your home and holiday gifting, all at very reasonable prices.

All proceeds from the gift shop support Valley Churches United’s nonprofit yearround food pantry.

The Gift Shop is located in the heart of Ben Lomond at 9400 Highway 9. For more information, call 831-336-8258.

If you’ve been looking for a contemporary vinyl window or door, the new Trinsic Series is for you. The frame profile is so narrow, you’ll hardly know it’s there. With the maximum available viewable glass area, you’ll enjoy amazing views outside. Plus it features a full lifetime warranty for added peace of mind. Trinsic is now available in a popular and contemporary black-on-black finish shown here. Call today to take advanatage of this great offer.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Free Narcan in Ben Lomond

Santa Cruz Community Health: Goal to Save Lives

On Oct. 22, Santa Cruz Community Health announce a new partnership to provide free 24/7 access to naloxone (Narcan) in the San Lorenzo Valley.

Narcan is a medicinal nasal spray that can reverse an overdose of fentanyl, heroin and prescription medications.

A Narcan Now box, stocked with naloxone, has been installed outside the entrance to the Mountain Health Center in Ben Lomond, thanks to Central Coast Overdose Prevention, making this lifesaving medication readily available to anyone in the community.

Previously a prescription was required, and too often that took too long.

“We are grateful for this partnership with CCODP and for the increased access to naloxone in our community,” said Anita Aguirre, CEO, Santa Cruz Community Health. “This Narcan Now box will provide a vital resource for individuals who may be experiencing an opioid overdose, and we

A Narcan Now box, stocked with naloxone, has been installed outside the entrance to the Mountain Health Center in Ben Lomond, thanks to Central Coast Overdose Prevention, making this life-saving medication readily available to anyone in the community.

SENIOR BENEFITS INSURANCE SERVICES

encourage everyone to learn how to use naloxone in case of an emergency.”

Santa Cruz County has seen an increase in opioidrelated deaths, particularly those involving fentanyl, and illegal drugmakers take advantage of its potency and low cost to make counterfeit prescription pills.

In three years, fentanyl-related deaths

in Santa Cruz County increased from 6 in 2020, to 62 in 2022, to 100 in 2023.

The Narcan Now box is located outside MHC, 231 Main St. Suite A in Ben Lomond. It is equipped with a QR code that links to the CCODP website (https://ccodp.org/naloxonenow/) where users can find information about naloxone, including how to administer it.

“We are committed to expanding access to naloxone at our Mountain Health Center in Ben Lomond,” said Dr. Rose Lovell at Santa Cuz Community Health. “This Narcan Now box will provide a critical resource for our community and help to save lives.” n

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Food Packaging Chemicals: What to Do?

From the Editors of E – The Environmental Magazine

Dear EarthTalk: Are we really all exposed to many hazardous chemicals that come off the packaging our food travels in? What can we do to minimize our exposure to these potential toxins in our food?

— William Freleigh, Newark, DE

Alarge percentage of our food packaging contains toxic Food Contact Chemicals, which are chemicals that come into contact with foods during manufacturing, packaging or transportation. Notable Food Contact Chemicals include BPA, BPS and BPF, all commonly found in soda and soup cans, plastic food linings, and DVDs, and plasticizers or phthalates, which are widely used to make plastic products more flexible and durable.

At least 25% of Food Contact Chemicals, including BPAs and plasticizers, can be found in the human body due to Some health risks include harm to the immune system, cancer, liver toxicity, thyroid effects and reproductive toxicity. BPAs are especially hazardous for women, as they are also toxic to the ovaries and uterus.

Due to the prevalence of Food Contact Chemicals in so much food packaging, it is impossible to fully avoid them.

However, there are ways to reduce our exposure to toxic chemicals in our food. For one, buy food that is stored in glass jars or BPA-free boxes instead of metal cans and plastic containers, which are more likely to contain Food Contact Chemicals.

Also, wash your hands often and always before eating, steer clear of fast-food and fatty foods and eat fresh, unprocessed foods, especially organic fruits and vegetables.

You can also reduce risks when preparing food by using wooden, stainless steel or silicone kitchenware, and avoiding nonstick pans, disposable packaging, packaging with recycling codes 3 or 7, and black plastic kitchenware.

Food Contact Chemicals are also prevalent in cleaning products and other household items.

You can reduce your exposure to chemicals in these products by using glass or stainless-steel reusable water bottles, buying fragrance-free soaps, cosmetics and cleaners, refusing paper receipts and avoiding vinyl carpets and fabrics.

It is also recommended that you keep your windows open for ventilation whenever possible, as synthetic chemicals often deteriorate into dust particles that are easily inhaled.

Unfortunately, the only

way that we will be able to permanently get rid of Food Contact Chemicals is to campaign for them to be banned by the government and by national retailers.

Several volunteer-led campaigns have already spoken out on the issue, and a lot of headway has been made in banning specific toxic chemicals, including BPAs, in California.

If you would like to help canvas for the banning of toxic chemicals in food packaging, consider volunteering for Take Out Toxics or other local campaigns that are pressuring their local governments and retailers to call for chemical bans.

Contacts

Reduce Exposure To FCCs, www.consumer reports.org/health/food-contaminants/how-toreduce-exposure-to-plastic-in-food-everywhereelse-a9640874767

Take Action With Take Out Toxics, https:// toxicfreefuture.org/research/take-out-toxics-pfaschemicals-in-food-packaging/.

•••

EarthTalk® is produced by Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss for the 501(c)3 nonprofit EarthTalk. See more at https://emagazine.com. To donate, visit https://earthtalk.org. Send questions to: question@earthtalk.org.

Lots of food packaging contains toxic chemicals that come into contact with foods during manufacturing, packaging or transportation.

Scorpio — Nine Tests & the Choice

• November 2024 • By Risa

D’Angeles

The most important vote & election since the founding of our United States occurs this year, 2024, on November 5! The question to ponder about our voting choice — is it informed or reactive? One moves humanity forward into the future and the other pushes humanity back into a dark past. One sings, the other doesn’t. What will we as a humanity in our country choose? This choice is a major test for humanity. The major tests always occurs under the 8th sign of death and transformation, serpent, scarab, phoenix and eagle.

And so, we are now under the light of Scorpio, one of the two (the other is Pisces) mystifying signs of the zodiac. Scorpio dives deep into the dark waters of the psyche where we each begin to enact the story of Persephone in the underworld (dark half of the year). We hear Persephone say, “What is this land and what am I doing here?” Persephone/Scorpio can feel lost in the netherworld with Pluto, drowning in some way.

now concerning the U.S. election. We have a choice as to how, why and for whom we vote – and so concerning our vote the question again arises - are we informed or are we reactionary?

This vote is a test for humanity in the United States. Scorpio is the sign of nine tests which Mars, god of war, administers. What is tested is our ability to discern, discriminate, to make Right Choice and have Right Action.

Samson, Old Testament hero, who had to choose between emotional passion (Delilah) and occult (mental) obedience to and love of God, is an example of the tests we will encounter (in Scorpio). The tests are very subtle. Based on our participation in the Scorpio tests we either enter (or expand further into) the light of the Soul or remain within the personality (form and matter). The latter creates a sense of imprisonment as the light of Aquarius unfolds.

“Women in Business” from page 9

She said she has 15 people on her United Way staff, 14 women and one man.

“They know they are more than enough,” she said. “Fourteen women are ready to lead this organization, a multimillion-dollar organization.”

Asked about mentors, DeLaGarza said, “My most powerful mentor was my mom. She owned her own restaurant. My dad died when she was 8, she didn’t know to drive, she didn’t speak English and she ran that restaurant because she had two little girls to raise.”

When DeLa Garza was 22 or 23, she learned from Esther Medina in Santa Clara County, “Never be embarrassed to ask for money for the community you serve.”

Scorpio is the sign of the disciple, the sign after Libra whose keynote is “Let choice be made.” Choice is especially significant

ARIES

Be prepared for a feeling of being tested, a continual sense of being challenged, watched, graded, guided and a sense of preparation for further responsibilities, especially in terms of tending to others’ finances and resources. Intimacy may be an issue, either you hope for it, seek it, look for it or reject it. You need to study the astrology and the Ancient Mysteries (the foundations being astrology). Your questions are answered there in the circle of your astrology chart, a reflection of the heavens.

TAURUS

You seek more than usual both freedom and yet depth in relationship. You can become silent and secretive, seeking your own counsel, an intimacy of spirit. Careful when following your own needs that you forget the needs of the other. It’s most important to communicate with loved ones, informing them of your inner thoughts, hopes, wishes and dreams, so you can work together more efficiently. You think there’s no money. It’s all around you.

GEMINI

As your mind works overtime, you realize lots of overlooked work, at first not obvious, must be accomplished. If you peek into corners, closets, under, over and above, in garages, storage units, your car(s), you’ll discover what needs to be eliminated so a transformation and regeneration can come about. There’s special work to do with relationships, children, small animals and gardens, all needing consideration, play, color, communication, new intentions and a re-commitment (from you).

CANCER

You may feel worried and anxious about family members, concerned about their choices, abilities, resources, and the way they live their lives. There may be a family member in a state of deep change, a transition from one reality to another. You worry about someone female, perhaps a daughter, mother, sister. You know at a moment’s notice you’ll travel anywhere to help. In the meantime, bake sugar cookies, pies, breads, dumplings and casseroles. You need all things soothing and lots of time in the garden.

Should we pass the tests of Mars, we hear the voice of the Teacher say, “You are warriors and from the battle you have emerged triumphant.” Scorpio is the great battle, the great testing,

LEO

I suggest you head over to Cancer’s home and garden and stay there awhile to rest, chat, share and eat to your heart’s content. There needs to be a respite from the extreme amounts of work and responsibilities being encountered. Sometimes you don’t know why you’re doing this work. It seems you need more art, whether it’s yours or another’s. Relationships are either nebulous or too strict for words. Something usually hidden at home becomes illuminated, filled with light.

VIRGO

With Mercury, your personal messenger, always traveling through a multiplicity of signs (though now in Scorpio) your mind, like Persephone’s, must be extremely internally active. Maybe you’re having unusual dreams. Remember to focus first on yourself and your needs, then on the needs of others. Mercury in Scorpio offers you a depth of perception and understanding. Your words become very serious, almost mysterious and this allows all parts of yourself to cooperate, ruminate and become intimate with the truth of all that matters to you.

LIBRA

Your New Year began on your Libra birthday. Now we are in Scorpio so the focus is on your values, past, present, future. You are sensitive to those in need. However, this time you need to focus on an aspect of your health and healing. What is that? It’s also important to focus on the health of your finances and how money emotionally supports your way of life. For the next month appreciate all that you have, all people and things small and large. Love and healing emerge from gratitude.

SCORPIO

The veils are dropping between realities. The purpose is so humanity can see more expanded realities (which you always see). In the meantime, you/we are to be anthropologists, keenly surveying life and choices and people everywhere. Observing quietly with curiosity allows us to understand two polarities: 1) what’s staged (unreal) to push the masses to rely on government control, or 2) energies that are spiritual in intent, supporting the Forces of Light, building the new reality as the old is destroyed. You have this ability to discern the differences. Share, then move on.

SAGITTARIUS

With Sun and Mercury in Scorpio, you’re to be on a retreat from your usual daily life, plans, agendas and responsibilities. In order to nurture yourself, eat well, take it easy, do personal research, work on private projects, ponder upon needs and the values that emerge from self-assessment. This allows a bit of distance to be created offering you more perspective about how you’re living life, what pleases you, how to be more present in relationships. You may meet someone soon who is important to you in one or many ways. It may come in a dream, on a white horse, on the road, along the way somewhere as if you were on a pilgrimage.

CAPRICORN

It is a good time for assessing goals, hopes, wishes and priorities in terms of what you offer others, how you’re perceived (people love you) and how you are given to in return. You are valuable, responsible, and what we call a disciple. Many respect you even though they may be unable to admit this. Often when greatness enters a group, there can be resistance. Why? People cannot absorb the light of the Soul (like a Sun) streaming through great people. You are a point of Light wherever you go. However, if not enough repose and respite, your light dims. Focus on fun, things playful, music, the arts and more and more rest each day in the Sun.

AQUARIUS

Building your strength and activating your creativity are vital at this time and as you grow in these they become apparent to those around you. Notice how well you’re completing tasks and displaying special abilities. For the next month ponder upon what your work and career need for personal and future success. This is a time of assessing past, present and future on inner levels. Later you will initiate new plans, but consider them now. If you must move, ponder upon what your daily domestic needs are. Write them down, draw and paint your wishes and work with this list daily.

PISCES

Sometimes making contact with others can be challenging. At times this challenge can be with family members. Making contact so love and understanding are released is important to you. However, others may not know this or think like you. Compassion rules the life of Pisces. Everyone is not a Pisces. You may experience standing alone this month and next. Focus upon study, reading, art, music, ideas and all things of beauty as they become ideals within you. Create on paper (color, ink, drawing, painting, sculpture, etc.) your next endeavor. Include a village, community, gardens, several geodesic domes and the idea of a large Commons. All that we wish for appears one day.

Morhauser said, “When I asked the bank if I could borrow $1 million, they said yes if I go to CEO school.”

And that was a good experience.

When the Covid-19 pandemic hit, Morhauser called Kelly Sanchez of Kelly’s Bakery for advice.

Browder said her mom with her shoulder pads working at Bank of America, “prepared me to be in any space any time.”

When Browder came to Santa Cruz County, Chris Maffia, vice president at Santa Cruz County Bank and chair of the 2024 Women in Business conference, was a mentor.

“She welcomed me and helped me connect the dots,” Browder said.

Morhauser also praised Maffia.

“On April 15, TaxDay 2020, my business was closed, and my bank –my former bank – did not have the system to get the PPP (federal Paycheck Protection Program) money. Chris did it, like a miracle.”

As for last words, Browder, who is leaving to become CEO of Bay Area United Way I San Francisco, said, “Give yourself a chance.”

Morhauser said, “Stop apologizing.”

DeLa Garza, said, Take your space, share your lessons learned.” n

Asked about mentors, DeLaGarza said,

“My most powerful mentor was my mom. She owned her own restaurant. My dad died when she was 8, she didn’t know to drive, she didn’t speak English and she ran that restaurant because she had two little girls to raise.”

Falcon Golf: Perfect Season

Small in numbers, yet mighty on the green — the Scotts Valley High School girls’ golf team wrapped up a perfect season, finishing 10-0 in the Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League –and earning their sixth consecutive league crown.

Just five players came out: seniors Maisey Chard, and Serena Sanford-Brantley, junior Lauren Ohlsson, and freshmen Becca Ervine and Elizabeth Goldfield.

They didn’t have junior Ashley Gettleman, a two-time league individual champion, because she transferred to Stevenson School, a private school in Pebble Beach.

Asked about their key to success, Coach Anders Ohlsson said, “Everyone showed up eager to learn to all practices, and eager to win all matches. Super important with a very small team.”

By the time you read this, the 18-hole league championship will be over. DeLaveaga Golf Course in Santa Cruz hosted the competition Tuesday. n

Back Row (from left): Maisey Chard, Serena Sanford-Brantley

Front Row: Anders Ohlsson, Becca Ervine, Elizabeth Goldfield, Lauren Ohlsson

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

ANNOUNCEMENTS

NOV. 5 ELECTION: IMPORTANT DATES

Vote Centers opening:

Oct. 26: Aptos, Santa Cruz, and Scotts Valley (Scotts Valley Public Library, 251 Kings Village Road)

Nov. 2: 14 locations throughout Santa Cruz County including Scotts Valley High School, Zayante Fire and Boulder Creek Fire, St. John’s Episcopal Church in Aptos, New Brighton Middle School, Soquel High School, LaSelva Beach Clubhouse

Nov. 5: Corralitos Community Church, Pacific Elementary in Davenport, Christian Life Center, Santa Cruz and Loma Prieta Community Center, Los Gatos

Once these locations open, they will be open through Election Day, Nov. 5.

Nov. 5: Election Day – polls open at 7am and close at 8pm.

Nov. 12: Vote by mail ballots postmarked on or before Election Day and received by Nov. 12 will be counted.

Dec. 3: Last day to certify election results.

Hours for all Vote Centers on Election Day are 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Info: www.votescount.santacruzcounty.gov

Red Cross Blood Drives

Aptos

Nov 1: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Seacliff Inn, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, 7500 Old Dominion Court

Nov 2: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m., Twin Lakes Church, 2701 Cabrillo College Drive

Nov 13: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Cabrillo College cafeteria, 6500 Soquel Drive

Ben Lomond

Nov. 15: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 9545 Love Creek Road

Live Oak

Nov 2: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Central Fire District of Santa Cruz County, 930 17th Ave.

Santa Cruz

Nov 7: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 220 Elk St.

Scotts Valley

Nov 16: 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m., St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 5271 Scotts Valley Drive

Watsonville

Nov 19: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Community Health Trust of Pajaro Valley, 85 Nielson St.

Nov 22: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Community Health Trust of Pajaro Valley, 85 Nielson St.

To donate, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-7332767) to make an appointment.

NAMI FAMILY SUPPORT GROUPS ON ZOOM

NAMI Family Support Group is a support group for loved ones of those who have experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Gain insight from the challenges and successes of others facing similar experiences.

By sharing your experiences in a safe setting, you can gain hope and develop supportive relationships. This group allows your voice to be heard and provides an opportunity for your personal needs to be met. It encourages empathy, productive discussion and a sense of community. You’ll benefit from other’s experiences, discover your inner strength and empower yourself by sharing your own experiences in a non-judgmental space. NAMI’s support groups follow a structured model, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to be heard and to get what they need.

• Free to participants • Drop-in friendly

• Designed for loved ones of people with mental health conditions

• Led by family members of people with mental health conditions

• 90 minutes • Confidential

• No specific medical therapy or treatment is

Have a virtual or live event you want to promote? E-mail info (no PDFs please) to info@cyber-times.com For beginning of the month, due the 15th • For mid-month, due the 1st

endorsed

There are five different Family Support Groups: for loved ones of adults, loved ones of young adults, parents and caregivers of youth, and Spanish speakers.

Sign up at https://www.namiscc.org/nami-familysupport-groups.html

Questions? Email sophia@namiscc.org, or call (831)-824-0406.

HOSTILE TERRAIN ‘94

Cabrillo College is hosting the memorial installation Hostile Terrain ’94 which showcases 3,800 handwritten toe tags representing undocumented migrants who died trying to cross the Sonoran Desert between the 1990s and 2023.

Through Dec. 6, the exhibit will be at the Library, Building 1000, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos, then at the Watsonville campus in the spring. The exhibit is free.

The Undocumented Migration Project, which created the exhibit, is directed by Dr. Jason de León, UCLA professor and author of The Land of Open Graves: Living and Dying on the Migrant Trail and Soldiers and Kings, a finalist for the 2024 National Book Awards. He spoke at Cabrillo Oct. 17.

ITALIAN ART HISTORY & FILM

The Dante Alighieri Society of Santa Cruz presents a history lecture Sunday, Nov. 3, from 6:30-8 p.m.: “Leonardo’s Fresco: Sala delle Asse” at Cabrillo College’s Aptos Campus, VAPA Forum, Room 1001. Writer and filmmaker Caroline Cocciardi will discuss Leonardo da Vinci’s The Room of Knots (Sala Delle Asse) which stands on par with Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling in terms of artistic merit. The Room of Knots is in Milan’s Sforza Castle.

No tickets required, seating is limited; first come, first served.

Cash donations welcome at the door. More info: https:// bit.ly/Nov2024_Lecture

The final film in the Fall 2024 Italian Film Series, “Portraits of Community/Ritratti di comunità,” is “Beate,” 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 17, at Cabrillo College VAPA Forum, Room 1001. Italian with English subtitles, 95 minutes. Logan Walker, film lecturer from UCSC & director of programming, SV Film Festival, will introduce and have a Q&A after.

No tickets required, seating is limited; first come, first served.

Cash donations welcome at the door.

More info: https://www.dantesantacruz.com/events

MEET NEW LIBRARY DIRECTOR

Santa Cruz Public Libraries Director Christopher Platt welcomes the community to informal meet and greet events.

The next one is Thursday, Nov. 7, 4-5 p.m. at Scotts Valley Branch Library, 251 Kings Village Road.

The events are part of a series Platt hopes to hold at every branch, to meet and connect with the community.

The new library director wants to provide the public with an opportunity to learn about his experience leading libraries, to ask

questions, and exchange insights about the important role Santa Cruz Public Libraries play in the community. Dates at Aptos Library and La Selva Beach Library are to be announced.

MI CASA ES TU CASA

Exhibit Dates: Oct. 16 – Dec. 1, Pajaro Valley Arts, 37 Sudden St., Watsonville

This year, the exhibit Mi Casa es Tu Casa at Pajaro Valley Arts embraces the theme In the Arms of our Ancestors, an exploration of the deep connections between the living and those who have passed. Opening reception: Sunday, Nov. 3, from 1-3 p.m., with performances by White Hawk Aztec Dancers, Grupo, and Estrella de Esperanza.

ANIMAL SHELTER SEEKS VOLUNTEERS

Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is seeking volunteers for a clinic hosted by Planned Pethood and Animal Balance to provide 200 animals with low-cost spay/ neuter surgeries and other services Nov. 15-17 at the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s “annex” at 2260 7th Ave.

The Animal Shelter needs 10-12 volunteers each day of the event from 8 a.m. until 5-6 p.m. Half-day shifts may be available.

The Shelter needs agile, active folks comfortable working with animals and who can focus well in a busy environment. A positive attitude and teamwork skills are a must.

Bilingual volunteers and those with veterinary or animal experience are especially encouraged to sign up, but all will be provided necessary training.

Volunteers who are not already shelter volunteers should sign up by contacting the Animal Shelter’s Volunteer Coordinator Megan Carroll, at 831-454-7209 or megan.carroll@santacruzcountyca.gov.

Ideally, volunteers would sign up for the same position multiple days in a row to minimize training needs, but this is not a requirement.

Volunteers must provide their own transportation and parking will be limited.

COUNTY FAIR BOARD MEETINGS

The Santa Cruz County Fair Board will meet each month in 2024 except September and November.

Remaining dateis Dec. 3.

There is no meeting in November.

Meetings typically begin at 1:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday in the Heritage Building at the fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Blvd., Watsonville.

For agendas, posted 10 days in advance, see santacruzcountyfair.com

ONGOING EVENTS

Last Wednesdays of the Month PARENT/CAREGIVER MENTAL HEALTH SEMINARS 5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Online Meeting

Dr. Ramona Friedman of the Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health in Soquel will be hosting a free Parent Drop-in Zoom session. Parents and caregivers are invited to log on and ask questions to Dr. Friedman about youth mental health issues, challenges, and ideas.

Parent Drop-Ins are free, 1-hour sessions where parents can seek guidance from experts specializing in specific mental health disorders. Parents can also connect with others facing similar challenges.

Clinical psychologists who specialize in anxiety, depression, eating disorders, suicidality, and medication, experienced youth mental health experts, host each session.

For more info, visit https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/groups/ parent-drop-in-soquel-ca/247794

2025 SLINGSHOT CHALLENGE

The National Geographic Society, with support from the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, is asking 13-18-yearolds to join the Slingshot Challenge and submit a 1-minute video describing their idea for solving environmental issues.

Participating in the challenge is simple:

1) Learn more about the Slingshot Challenge — View the challenge resources, download the educator toolkit and learn about past award recipients.

2) Register on the Videos for Change platform — Receive invites to events and be able to follow along with your students’ submissions.

The Society will review all submissions and a panel of experts will select a small number to receive funding of $1,000 or $10,000 to further their journey. Top award recipients will have the opportunity to attend the Society’s Explorers Festival in June 2025. Submission are due Feb.7.

Educators and supporters can sign up to receive resources and Slingshot Challenge notifications. See https://www.nationalgeographic.org/society/projects/slingshot/

Christopher Platt

Dr. Jason de León

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

DATED EVENTS

Saturday November 2

HOT RODS AT THE BEACH

All Day, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk parking lot, 400 Beach St.

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk parking lot will be full of classic cars for the 26th Annual Hot Rods at the Beach, rain or shine.

All proceeds go to scholarships for local high school students who are heading towards careers in the automotive/ restoration industries. The show is connected with the nonprofit Santa Cruz Police Officers Association # 77-0509499, which collects the registration fees.

No judging, just come, show off your car and have fun. If you want to park with your club and/or friend you must be pre-registered and arrive together at the gate. Registration is $60 and non-refundable at https://www. hotrodsatthebeach.com/online-registration

No Pop-Up tents in show area and absolutely no gas or charcoal barbeques. Confirmation will be mailed to you with additional information.

For information call Margaret Trowbridge (831) 566-8763, Lisa Pisanis (831) 234-0007 or Bettie Burton (831) 818-0579.

Friday November 8

2024 STATE OF THE REGION

9 a.m.–5 p.m., CSU Monterey Bay University Center, 4314 6th Ave., Seaside

Monterey Bay Economic Partnership presents the 2024 Annual State of the Region event at the CSU Monterey Bay University Center.

This year’s event will feature topics aimed at driving regional economic recovery and development, exploring strategies for ensuring good jobs, housing for all, reducing the digital divide, and examining the impact of local, state, and federal policies and legislation on our region.

Speakers

• Nanette Mickiewicz, MD, President of Dominican Hospital — Dr. Mickiewicz will bring her perspective on how the healthcare industry is evolving to meet community needs and its pivotal role in regional development.

• Audries Blake, Associate Director, Community Relations at UC Santa Cruz — Audries Blake will offer insights on regional collaboration and innovation, contributing to important discussions on how to advance economic progress in this area.

• Allen Radner, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System — Dr. Radner will speak on the intersection of healthcare and economic recovery, focusing on how healthcare systems are key to building resilient communities.

• Rachel Barker, Nonresident Fellow at Brookings Institution

— With expertise in economic policy and development, Rachel Barker will discuss national trends in economic recovery and what they mean for the future of this region. Additional speakers include: Dilawar Syed, deputy administrator, U.S. Small Business Administration, Bulbul Gupta, president & CEO of Pacific Community Ventures, and Steven Packer, MD, president and CEO of Montage Health.

The Public-Private Partnership Award and the Community Impact Award will recognize outstanding collaborations and individuals or organizations making a significant difference in the Monterey Bay region.

This will be a day of thought-provoking discussions, actionable insights, and meaningful dialogue on how we can work together to foster a thriving and inclusive regional economy.

Tickets are $149 through Oct. 18 at https://www.eventbrite. com/e/2024-state-of-the-region-registration- 978827558577

GRIEF SUPPORT

Hospice of Santa Cruz County at 940 Disc Drive, Scotts Valley, and 65 Nielson St., Suite 121, Watsonville, offers grief support groups. For information or to register, call 831-430-3000 and ask for Ext 338, or email griefsupport@ hospicesantacruz.org

Upcoming Dates

Tuesday, Nov. 12, 6:30-8 p.m.

— Coping with Grief through the Winter Holidays – 6 Weeks Meets weekly, ending Dec. 17. A safe and caring space to share and receive support from those in grief. Find connectedness through sharing, receiving support, or simply listening. Helpful tips on how to cope during the winter holidays.

Future Dates

Tuesday, Jan. 14, 6:30-8 p.m. — Loss of Spouse/Partner Group, Scotts Valley – 6 Weeks Meets weekly concluding Feb. 18. Must register in advance. Life can change overnight when a spouse dies, whether from sudden tragedy or a long-term illness. There is an immediacy to everything that must be done, handling logistics and the complexities of legal matters.

Thursday, Jan. 23, 6:30-8:30 p.m. — Grief Support Writing Group, Scotts Valley – 6 Weeks

Meets weekly concluding Feb. 23. Putting pen to paper is a powerful way to explore your personal journey in a manner that is both meaningful and rich with complexity — especially when talking about grief is not easy. Registration required.

Friday, Jan. 31, 10-11:30 a.m. — Loss of Spouse/Partner for Seniors (60 and older) – 6 Weeks Meeting weekly concluding March 6. The loss of a life-long companion can be devastating. In this very special group, participants are encouraged to open up about their loss, to share their memories of a life well lived and talk freely about their deepest concerns. They learn about the symptoms of grief and the path to healing. Registration required.

Saturday November 9

FALL BAKEOFF & FESTIVAL

Noon – 4 p.m., Scotts Valley Community Center, 360 Kings Village Rd.

Scotts Valley Recreation hosts the Fall Bakeoff & Festival at the Scotts Valley Community Center,. Judging begins at noon.

All the bakeoff slots were taken and a waitlist started. Enjoy music, pumpkins, arts and crafts, games, a petting zoo, face painting and artisan vendors.

Admission is free, but how can you resist purchasing a tasting ticket once you see all the sweet dessert treats to sample?

Information: 831-438-3251

Saturday November 9

Sunday November 10

SEA GLASS & OCEAN ART FESTIVAL

10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Coconut Grove, 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz. The Santa Cruz Sea Glass & Ocean Art Festival will take place at Historic Cocoanut Grove at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Admission is $5.

This event features genuine sea glass and artistmade creations while benefiting our local marine environment. This year the festival celebrates its 16th anniversary.

Over 50 talented artists are bringing their boutique works to the Bay View room & Sunroom. You’ll find one-of-a-kind pieces, from ceramics, soaps, sea salts, photography, fabric arts and stunning sea glass jewelry.

There is plenty of parking, food, views of the Monterey Bay, a full bar and a crew of ocean-enthusiasts.

Thursday November 28

THANKSGIVING DINNER: TURKEY & ALL!

11 a.m.-3 p.m., Veterans Memorial Building, 846 Front St., Santa Cruz

For more than 30 years, the veterans have hosted a Thanksgiving meal at the Veterans Memorial Building in downtown Santa Cruz for those in our community who are houseless or of very modest means.

This tradition has endured through the good works of the veterans themselves and those who support their local mission of serving the less fortunate. Veterans for Peace and the Friends of Thanksgiving announce that the Santa Cruz Community Thanksgiving Dinner will once again this year be hosted at the Veterans Memorial Building.

Everyone is invited to attend and enjoy a hot, traditional meal of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and all the trimmings prepared by local chefs. The hall will once again be decorated by local Girl Scouts and music will be provided by local artists. Join us for a day of true community as we eat, share stories and experiences and celebrate the holiday spirit.

Your generous donation will help turn a time of want and need into a celebration of joy and generosity. The goal is $3,000. To give, visit https://gofund.me/09145d02 Happy Holidays to you and yours from the Veterans for Peace and the Friends of Thanksgiving. n

Nanette Mickiewicz

Allen Radner

By Edita McQuary

We all know the saying, “All good things must come to an end.”

Oftentimes it is a bittersweet ending. After 50 years doing business at 808 River St. in Santa Cruz, Central Home Supply is closing its doors, the result of eminent domain. After a long and arduous lawsuit and court proceedings, the Santee family decided to sell the remaining parcel of their land to the City of Santa Cruz.

“It is not for lack of business or engagement or desire to do business in Santa Cruz that we are leaving,” explained owner Reed Santee. “There have been many years of back and forth in court until the Santee family has regretfully conceded to sell the remaining parcel of their property to the City of Santa Cruz. We are heartbroken to announce our last day of business at the 808 River St. location will be Oct. 31, 2024.”

In 1974 Reed’s grandparents, John and Ann Santee, bought the land in a perfect location: The corner of Highway 1 and River Street. They had one truck and no forklifts –all the heavy lifting was done by truck and hardworking hands in those days!

Using the college savings fund they were granted by Rusty choosing to serve in the Air Force Academy, the family reinvested in equipment and grew. Central Home Supply continued to operate the business at that location until in 2008 when the family began to “see the writing on the wall” and decided to open a second location at 180 El Pueblo Road in Scotts Valley to serve the people in north Santa Cruz County and beyond.

“Only a 6-minute drive northeast, the 180 El Pueblo Road location has a premier showroom where customers can see the most extensive displays of patio, driveway, or hard-scaping material for their landscaping needs,” Reed says. “There are four display courtyards available to tour from all major

Central Home supply So Long but not Good-bye!

vendors. We have a great staff of long-time employees such as JR Perez and Jamie Pennington that you knew from the River Street location to help you here.”

The company has many delivery trucks of all sizes, as well as forklifts and dump trucks. They have a large inventory of pavers, stone, construction hardware, rock, gravel, retaining walls, pre-cast concrete and concrete products, masonry block, tools, lath and plaster, bricks, erosion control equipment, drainage items, soil, compost, mulch and even barbeques and turf. In fact, they offer more than 2,500 products including 100 types of natural stone! And if you don’t see what you desire, they will track it down and order it for you.

Central Home Supply has been in business for 3 generations of Santees and 50 years! They sell pretty much everything to do with cement products as well as masonry building materials and all types of landscape supplies. They sell every type of brick product, pavers, flagstone, retaining walls, and the coolest boulders and big rocks you can imagine! If it can be found, Central Home Supply will have it on hand or order it especially for you. In the rare event they do not have what you need, they oftentimes can tell you the best place to find it.

Besides having a great staff that can coach clients through the process of their landscaping project, they have a trusted referral service to local contractors who will advise you on how to meet your needs and stay within your budget.

Today Central Home Supply happily delivers your landscaping and building materials anywhere within a few hundred miles of Santa Cruz County and occasionally beyond! They have a fleet of many different sized vehicles, so no job is too small or too large for their experienced drivers!

Reed Santee, Owner

operations as a C5 Galaxy pilot in service of our great nation. Upon the early loss of his father John Santee (a World War II Navy veteran) to cancer at only 55 years old, Rusty returned to Santa Cruz to assist in the family business and help it thrive.

Reed’s beloved uncle, Rick Santee, who had the foresight to work with Scarborough Lumber and establish the Scotts Valley location, sadly passed away from a long battle with autoimmune disease in 2019.

In case you are wondering what happened to Rusty, when the grandparents used his college fund to start the business, he rose to the rank of major while serving in Desert Storm and many other vital

Always a community-minded operation, Central Home Supply has supported Habitat for Humanity for many years. They also support the Homeless Garden Project in reskilling and re-establishing work and life skills for the unhoused community. Not long ago, they were instrumental in the renovation of Harbor High School’s baseball dugouts and field. Central Home Supply donates to nearly every school’s garden projects as well as many local Eagle & Girl Scouts on their beautification projects!

Reed says, “We want everyone to know how deeply grateful we are for having been able to serve the Santa Cruz community at the River Street location for 50 years.”

He adds, “Now we are

still here to help with only a 6-minute drive from our old spot in Santa Cruz to our location just down the block from Scarborough Garden Center at 180 El Pueblo Road, Scotts Valley… Don’t settle for 2nd best, we have the largest selection and friendliest service in Santa Cruz County! Thank you for reading, with gratitude, the CHS Team looks forward to seeing you soon!” n

•••

Central Home Supply is at 180 El Pueblo Road, Scotts Valley (behind Scarborough Lumber), 831440-0763, www.centralhomesupply.com. Winter hours: Nov. 1 through March 31, Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

SCCAS Featured Pet

Deebo is Ready for a Permanent Home

Meet Deebo (A316232), the boxer mix — our Pet of the Week! Deebo is about 10 months old and has spent much of his young life in the Shelter system.

The kennel is stressful but when Deebo is out of it, he is soft, social and relaxed. He has spent time at client services with the staff decompressing. He likes to follow people around and get treats.

When staff are working with clients, Deebo hangs out on a dog bed and catches some zzz’s. A person who works from home and is looking for an office buddy may be the perfect fit for Deebo.

Deebo is still an adolescent who would thrive in a home where he gets daily mental and physical stimulation. Running, hiking, swimming paired with some brain games to help bond with his new family are all great ideas for this handsome guy. He has been observed playing with other dogs and is quite the socialite.

A home with another dog that wants to chase, wrestle and romp are high priorities in Deebo’s adoptive home. We are not sure of Deebo with kitties but due to his high energy and enthusiasm for life — we think he may spook a feline.

Deebo is often seen hanging out with client services staff while the Shelter is open so come on in to say “hi!” — he is a certified GOOD BOY!!

The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is full of adoptable animals. Fostering animals is an awesome way to improve a Shelter animal’s life and fill your home with love and fun! If you are interested in fostering any kind of animal please email jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us. You can also Follow SCCAS on Instagram and/or Facebook to stay up-to-date on shelter news and where to find adoptable pets around town at breweries, stores and events. All adoptions are first come, first served.

Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s full-service, open-admission shelter 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 • Hours: Daily 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. 580 Airport Blvd., Watsonville, 95076 • Hours: Tues.-Sat. 9:30 a.m. – noon; 1–5 p.m. (Closed Sun/Mon)

Website: www.scanimalshelter.org

SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182 • After Hours: jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us

County’s First Youth Advisory Task Force

Santa Cruz County’s first Youth Advisory Task Force met for the first time Oc.t 21 will explore issues facing local youth and make findings and recommendations related to youth engagement in local government.

The Task Force is the result of the “A Santa Cruz County Like Me” initiative, which aims to diversify the age, class, racial/ethnic, gender, geographic representation, and educational attainment of the 35 county commissions and committees to better reflect the community. Participants range in age from 14 to 24 live, work or go to school in the county.

The County received 75 applications for the Youth Advisory Task Force, far exceeding staff expectations and demonstrating that local youth do seek to be more engaged in important issues facing their community.

The Youth Advisory Task Force will meet monthly through October 2025. n

The 23 Task Force Members Natalie Allen, Aptos | Jack Smith, Aptos | Aedan Wall, Corralitos | Jade Soto, Capitola | Dustin Lopez, Scotts Valley | Dylan Turzak , Scotts Valley | Toryn Thompson, Felton | Ana Torres, Freedom | Carlos Daniel Carrillo, Live Oak | Elsy Fabian, Live Oak | Juliet Ray, Live Oak | Lucas Brown, Live Oak | Benjamin Williams, Santa Cruz | Gabriel Melesio Romero, Santa Cruz | Juliana Heritage, Santa Cruz | Layla Pasquini, Santa Cruz | Najia Fayez, Santa Cruz | Andrea Ornelas-Perez, Watsonville | Audrey Martinez, Watsonville | Daniel Fernandez , Watsonville | Mark Mendoza Luengas, Watsonville | Maximiliano Barraza Hernández, Watsonville | Melanie Camacho-Estevez, Prunedale

ELECTION 2024

Your Local Candidates & Measures

Scotts Valley City Council, 3 seats

Steve Clark – www.clark4scottsvalley.com

Krista Jett – https://votescount.santacruz countyca.gov/Portals/16/nov24/Statement-Jett.pdf

John Lewis — johnlewissvcity.com

Donna Lind* — dlindslind@gmail.com

Dustin Lopez — dustinlopez4council.com

Mercedes Molloy — molloy4svcitycouncil.com

Corky Roberson — colin.roberson2@pfgc.com

For City Council candidates Q&A, see https://tpgonlinedaily.com/scotts-valley-citycouncil-candidate-qa/

County Supervisor, 5nd District

Christopher Bradford — bradfordforsuper visor.com

Monica Martinez — martinezforsupervisor.com

For supervisor candidates coverage, see https:// tpgonlinedaily.com/district-5-county-supervisorcandidate-forum/

https://tpgonlinedaily.com/christopher-bradford/ https://tpgonlinedaily.com/monica-martinez/

Scotts Valley Unified School District Board, 3 seats

Stephanie Espinola – sites.google.com/view/ electstephanie

Tuka Gafari – vote4tuka.com

Gary Redenbacher – No website or email provided Michael Shulman* – mshulman@scottsvalley usd.org

Erica Turzak – ericaturzak4svschools.com

Mitali Hindia Weiglein, appointed * — mitali4svusd@gmail.com

Scotts Valley Fire District board, 3 seats

Philip Hover-Smoot — philiphhs@gmail.com

Daron Pisciotta* – daron.pisciotta@gmail.com

Zachary Raney – No website or email provided

Michael Weaver — mbweaver@sbcglobal.net

Ron Whittle — rgwhittle@gmail.com

San Lorenzo Valley Water District, 2 seats

Bruce Holloway — slvwaterinitiative@gmail.com

Alina Layng* appointed—largaylayng4 slvwd.org

Bryan Largay* appointed — largaylayng4 slvwd.org

Bill Smallman — billsmallman.com

Measures

O: Scotts Valley Unified School District Bond — $85 million to update aging schools, construct multipurpose rooms and safer playgrounds at elementary schools, provide all-weather track and field at Scotts Valley High School. Repaid by property owners over 33 years at $46 per $100,000 of assessed value. Needs 55% to pass.

Q: Water and Wildlife Protection — Permanent $87 parcel tax on property owners, raising $7.5 million a year for projects to be determined. Needs 50% plus one to pass.

S: Scotts Valley Fire District Bond — $24.5 million to build a new fire station and admin offices on La Madrona Drive replacing the one on Erba Lane. Repaid by property owners over 32 years at $16 per $100,000 assess value. Needs 66.67% to pass, unless Constitutional Amendment 1 passes, then only 55% is needed to pass.

T: Zayante Fire District: Permanent parcel tax of $50 to $290 to maintain reliable daytime response with paid staff and replace emergency vehicles. Replaces $68 parcel tax approved in 2016.

U: Citizens Initiative: Repeal all fixed water charges in San Lorenzo Valley Water District except the regular services charge and private fire service charge and limit increases in the water service charge to 2% per year through Jan. 1, 2049. n * = indicates incumbent

Deborah Cypert Owner Bobbie Frandeen CoOwner/Estimator Todd Ivy Sales/Estimator

The beauty of cork, wood and laminates

Featuring Graber and Hunter Douglas Custom Draperies and Roman Shades!