Aptos Times: June 1, 2023

Aptos High Valedictorians

The Aptos Times is pleased to recognize the two 2023 Aptos High School valedictorians and the two salutatorians for their hard work that put them at the top of their

class. Here they share their post-graduation plans and memories of Aptos High. ... continues on page 4

Aptos High Student Youngest American to Finish Des Sables

Vincent Carroll, 16, of Aptos, a cross-country runner at Aptos High School, is the youngest finisher in the 2023 Marathon Des Sables, and the youngest American to ever complete this 155-mile race across the Sahara Desert. Full Story page 5

Insights Into Infertility Full Story page 20

Africa: Photos by Shem Compion & Mark Overgaard

Fascinating Africa: Using the Power of Photography to Nurture Its Nature, Empower Its Peoples will be presented in two inspiring and free sessions Thursday, June 1, at the Resource Center for Non-Violence ...

Full Story page 11

Cover Aptos High Valedictorians

Community News

4 Aptos High Salutatorians

5 Aptos High Student Youngest American to Finish Des Sables

6 Q&A with Vincent Carroll

7 Rehearsals Begin at Cabrillo Stage!, By Mindy Pedlar

8 Pajaro Valley Students Earn State Seal of Civic Engagement

9 PVUSD: Third Annual Raising of the Progress Flag • Santa Cruz County Fair: Home Grown & Locally Shown! • New Judge: Leila Sayar

10 County Health Officer Dr. Gail Newel to Retire, By Jondi Gumz • EPA Gives Santa Cruz $128 Million Loan for Water System Upgrades

11 Fascinating Africa: Photos by Shem Compion & Mark Overgaard

12 Riley Carrera Wins Hank Garcia Jr. Scholarship

15 Natasha’s Run: June 15 at Aptos Village Park

16 Mt. Madonna School Valedictorians & Salutatorian

18 Arukah Project: Devoted to a Mission

27 75th Anniversary of Israel Independence

California News

8 Assembly Passes Bill to Ban Toxic Chemicals in Food

Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – Gemini’s Light Beams & the Two Columns, By Risa D’Angeles

Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29

Featured Columnists

20 Insights Into Infertility, By Dr. Maureen Rozenn, LAC, DAOM, FABORM, Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)®

22 Pure Water Soquel Pipeline 90% Complete, By Rebecca Gold Rubin

23 Who Should Be Banned from Flying? Congress Asks, By Christopher Elliott

24 Trauma-Informed Teaching, Chromebooks & Honors Classes, Q&A With Dr. Michelle Rodriguez, Superintendent, Pajaro Valley Unified School District

30 Preparing for Fire Season, By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District

SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 31 – Sweet Koa Looking For New Home

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What will you do after you graduate?

Do you have a major in mind?

I will be attending the University of Pennsylvania.

Currently, I am considering majoring in biochemistry.

What activities did you participate in at Aptos High?

Family responsibilities, dairy farm responsibilities at grandparents’ dairy farm in Turlock, Dairy Princess ambassador for California dairy industry, publication of oral history research with Professor Diniz Borges from Fresno State University, independent research on Azorean immigrants in California, nonprofit California Portuguese Youth Cultural Heritage Studies Society, president and founder of Aptos High Portuguese Club, volunteer at Our Lady Help of Christians Church Catholic Church, and dancer and competitor at Dancenter, Capitola.

How did Covid affect your high school experience?

I felt that I lost a sense of structure and routine and it took a while for things to get back to normal.

What did you enjoy most at Aptos High?

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The teachers and staff were always very caring and supportive and there was always a wide variety of clubs and activities to join on campus.

Parents: Manuel and Fatima Bettencourt

•••

Samia Parsons

What will you do after you graduate? Do you have a major in mind? After graduation, I will be attending UC Davis as a microbiology major.

What activities did you participate in at Aptos High?

I am a member of the Students for Climate Action and Pre-med clubs. Outside of high school, I have played roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms

for almost four years and worked for Teen Kitchen Project for almost three. What did you enjoy most at Aptos High? I enjoyed meeting lifelong friends and working with amazing teachers the most at Aptos High.

“Valedictorians” from page 1

Mia Beatty

What will you do after you graduate?

I will be attending Princeton University in the fall.

Do you have a major in mind? Astrophysics.

What activities did you participate in at Aptos High?

I led the Aptos High underwater robotics team, and I was the president of the Speech and Debate club and the Mock Trial Team.

What did you enjoy most at Aptos High?

Getting to meet so many wonderful and talented individuals, and leading my favorite clubs.

Jordi Martinez

What will you do after you graduate?

I will be going to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo next year to study mechanical engineering.

What activities did you participate in at Aptos High?

I was a part of the PCAL Tri-Champion football team my senior year, as well as a part of the SCCAL champion baseball team for four years. I was co-president of our Red Cross Club, secretary of the Surfrider Club, and vice president and co-founder of our school’s Pre-Med Club.

How did Covid affect your high school experience?

In retrospect, COVID helped me in that I used my time to volunteer to coach a baseball team, intern at Precision Physical Therapy, and tutor at Kumon of Aptos.

Academically, COVID enabled my tenacity to study independently and search out ways to be successful on my own.

What did you enjoy most at Aptos High?

Some of my most memorable moments from Aptos High come during rivalry sports games against Santa Cruz and laughable times in my calculus and economics classes. I am grateful for all the teachers, coaches, and my family and friends that have supported to where I am today. The people I’ve met, the friendships I’ve made, and the memories I share have provided me with the most enjoyable time at Aptos. n •••

The graduation ceremony is Thursday, June 1, at 5 p.m. at Cabrillo College.

Photo: Jordi Martinez and Mia Beatty

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photography

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Nicole Bettencourt and Samia Parsons

Aptos High Student Youngest American to Finish Des Sables

Vincent Carroll, 16, of Aptos, a crosscountry runner at Aptos High School, is the youngest finisher in the 2023 Marathon Des Sables, and the youngest American to ever complete this 155-mile race across the Sahara Desert.

The six-day 250-kilometer ultramarathon, begun in 1986, is one of the world’s toughest and most prestigious stage races. Stages vary, from 10 hours maximum to 32 hours maximum.

Each participant must carry his/her own backpack containing food, sleeping gear and supplies such as sun cream, tropical disinfectant and venom pump.

Normally it is held at the beginning of April. This year, because of Ramadan, it began April 23. Temperatures were unseasonably hot — at times exceeding 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit). Over the course of the race, 1/3 of the field dropped out due to extreme heat and sickness.

Vincent started the Marathon Des Sables with his stepfather, Gavin, but after the first stage Gavin had to drop out due to a serious injury, leaving his 16-year-old son to continue alone or quit.

“Vincent Carroll” page 7

Vincent Carroll, 16, of Aptos, in his race gear and yellow charity shirt at the finish line of the charity stage of the Marathon Des Sables in Morocco. From left, his stepdad Gavin Sandford, Vincent, his brother Anthony, and his mom Eisha Carozza Sanford.

Q&A with Vincent Carroll

The youngest American to finish the Marathon Des Sables shared his thoughts with Aptos Times:

•••

Why did you and your stepdad decide to run the Marathon Des Sables, the Marathon of the sands in the Sahara?

What motivated you?

We decided to compete in this race for the adventure, training and for spending time together both in training and during the race.

How did you prepare?

Because I had only 6 months to train for this race, I was left a little unprepared. My training consisted of three easy days, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and the long day on Sunday.

The long day was usually at least double the mileage of any one of the easy days.

I trained on this schedule to mimic the schedule of the race.

Besides putting my foot to the ground running, Gavin and I prepared by eating healthy, sleeping well, and with his knowledge of this race (he has completed it before) he taught me about what gear to bring.

Your stepdad dropped out of the race. How is he doing now?

Gavin is feeling a lot better now, and because of his injury removing him from the race, he is determined to heal and continue training.

What kept you going on and on by yourself?

What kept me going was the fact that I had trained very hard for this race, so I wasn’t going to let it slip away from me.

I put in a lot of blood sweat and tears during training, staying up late and waking up early, and I was going to do everything in my power to finish.

I feel like it’s also important to mention that Gavin dropped out after day one, and I met Rachel on day 3 and we stuck together until the finish line.

How did you withstand the heat?

Thankfully, the heat didn’t affect me a whole lot. It probably had an effect on me, but I didn’t really notice it.

What did it feel like to finish?

At first I was ecstatic, and in utter disbelief, and quite emotional.

It was a big sense of relief knowing that there was no more desert to be crossed, but also sadness knowing my adventure is coming to a close. The feeling of crossing the finish line cannot be put into words.

Will you apply what you learned to running in local cross country and track races? How?

Yes, of course. This race has taught me that you can do anything you set your mind to do, and that there is always more to give.

This applies to cross country and track in the sense that if I would like to get new PR, personal record, the only person holding me back is myself, and that I can always do more to get a better time. n

Vincent Carroll gets out his freeze dried dinner after the third day of the Marathon Des Sables.

Vincent Carroll celebrates finishing the marathon stage, the end of the famed timed race. He was ecstatic to finish, but also sad.

Rehearsals Begin at Cabrillo Stage!

By Mindy Pedlar

Singing beautiful music in harmony with others is one of my greatest joys.

Yes! Rehearsals have begun for Cabrillo Stage’s production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame based on Victor Hugo’s timeless novel, featuring songs from Disney’s Academy Award-nominated score.

Musical Director Michael McGushin describes the score as “lush and full of drama.” As he works with us, it’s clear he understands the musical nuances of the score and never loses sight of the story we are telling. With his clear instruction and commitment to quality, we know we are creating something truly special.

McGushin will also be conducting the full live orchestra, a key component of every Cabrillo Stage production. Meanwhile, renowned and inspirational Choir Director Cheryl Anderson prepares the onstage choir that will add more layers of harmony and vocal dynamics to this sweeping score.

“The choral-inspired music is very impressive to me,” says Director Vinh Nguyen who grew up in a Catholic household and sang in the choir throughout high school.

Vinh is drawn to the deep messages of this story “which condemns the mistreatment of people who are different than we are and preaches love, acceptance and unity. Hunchback of Notre Dame is a grand, epic musical but I want to make sure we maintain the heart and humanity of the story.”

Vinh is excited to be collaborating with his cast “to explore these beloved characters in greater depths and celebrate the artistry and diversity of our performers.”

Such a large-scale show demands that the set must also be epic and grand! A challenge Scenic Designer Skip Epperson has embraced. His set design is amazing.

As an integral part of Cabrillo Stage,

“Vincent Carroll” from page 5 Vincent refused to give up. He ran all of stage two and part of stage three by himself. He had become dehydrated and was suffering from severe muscle cramps when he came across another athlete, 26-year-old Rachel Belmont. She took him under her wing, and they carried on together. At one point they walked 31 hours straight, sometimes crying, sometimes wanting to stop — but he kept going.

At another point, Vincent and Rachel

Skip feels he “has been blessed to enjoy working with the tremendous artists who have been part of Cabrillo Stage. Whether designing scenery, constructing sets, building props, or painting backdrops, I am always inspired by the quality of work that each production brings forth both onstage and backstage.”

With each show Skip works to create an inspiring theatrical space that can be explored by insightful directors, designers, technicians and casts who will “breathe life and excitement into this world transporting our audience for a couple of hours. To me, every show is an honor to share.”

The sets come together with the expertise of Resident Technical Director Marcel Tjioe, who enjoys the standards of excellence and collaborative environment of working with Cabrillo Stage. The show will be further enhanced by Brance Sousa’s lively, creative choreography and of course, glorious costumes by Designer Maria Crush.

New Artistic Director Andrea Hart

helped save a Japanese man’s life by pressing his SOS button and staying with him until he could be evacuated. Vincent later gave his trail mix to another athlete who had run out of food, and comforted a man having a panic attack.

Vincent’s level of determination as well as his incredible strength of character would make him a winner regardless of whether he finished the race, but amazingly he did — becoming the youngest American to ever complete this extraordinary ace. n

could not be prouder of this remarkable cast and production team. n

•••

Tickets are online at Cabrillo Stage.com.

All performances are in the Crocker Theater on the Cabrillo College campus, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos. Box Office opens for phone & walk-in sales June 15, Thurs. – Sat., Noon-6 p.m. 831-479-6154.

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Musical Director Michael McGushin begins rehearsal for “The Hunchback of Notre Dame.”

State Assembly Passes Bill to Ban Toxic Chemicals in Food

On May 15, the California State Assembly passed first-of-its-kind legislation that would prohibit the use of certain dangerous and toxic chemicals in processed foods and drinks.

Authored by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Woodland Hills), Assembly Bill 418 would prohibit the manufacture, sale, or distribution of any food product in California containing Red Dye No. 3, titanium dioxide, potassium bromate, brominated vegetable oil, or propyl paraben.

These chemicals are already banned in the European Union due to scientific research linking them to significant health harms, including cancer, reproductive issues, and behavioral and developmental issues in children.

“Today’s strong vote is a major step forward in our effort to protect children and families in California from dangerous and toxic chemicals in our food supply,” said Gabriel. “It’s unacceptable

These chemicals are already banned in the European Union due to scientific research linking them to significant health harms, including cancer, reproductive issues, and behavioral and developmental issues in children.

that the U.S. is so far behind the rest of the world when it comes to banning these dangerous additives. We don’t love our children any less than they do in Europe and it’s not too much to ask food and beverage manufacturers to switch to the safer alternative ingredients that they already use in Europe and so many other nations around the globe.”

Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated the connection between the chemical additives named in AB 418 and alarming health outcomes, including increased risk of cancer, behavioral issues in children, harm to the reproductive

COMMUNITY NEWS

system, and damage to the immune system.

As a result, the EU and many other nations already have prohibited their use in food, and many major brands and manufacturers—including Coke, Pepsi, Gatorade, Dunkin Donuts, Papa John’s Pizza, and Panera—have voluntarily stopped using these additives in their products.

Unfortunately, according to Gabriel, chemical companies in the U.S. have been able to exploit a major loophole in federal regulations to avoid meaningful independent review by the FDA of numerous food additives, thereby placing the U.S. far

behind many other nations when it comes to food safety.

If signed into law, AB 418 would require companies to make modifications to the recipes for products sold in California and likely prompt a nationwide transition to safer alternatives.

“For decades, the FDA has failed to keep us safe from toxic food chemicals,” said Scott Faber, Environemntal Working Group senior vice president for government affairs. “The chemical companies keep exploiting a loophole that allows for food additives that have not been adequately reviewed for safety by the FDA. And the FDA consistently fails to reassess chemicals, even in light of new science. The food and confectioners industries know the review process at the FDA is broken.”

AB 418 now moves to the State Senate, where it is expected to be heard in committees in the coming weeks. n

Pajaro Valley Students Earn State Seal of Civic Engagement

On May 24, the Pajaro Valley Unified School District honored its first students to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement in Santa Cruz County.

They are Morielle Mamaril, Paula Camacho and Marco Padilla-Perez, all from Watsonville High School.

Each will receive a special seal on their high school diploma and be included in the student’s school transcript. PVUSD is providing a medallion for each to wear at their high school graduation.

All three students participated in the Summer in the City program, a four-week internship with PVUSD that for them stretched into a year’s work.

A dozen student interns conducted research for four weeks, with the outcome recommendations on how students could quality for the civic engagement recognition in fall 2022 to a task force of community members, a PVUSD board member, educators and stakeholders who reviewed, validated and formalized the student recommendations.

Even after the formal internship ended, “We chose to stick with it,” said Morielle of the decision by her, Paula and Marco to keep participating.

The criteria recommendations were

presented to the PVUSD board in January and were accepted.

Morielle, student trustee on the Pajaro Valley school board, said, “I gained new insights into what it means to be civically engaged. I learned so much about the importance of community involvement. Overall, I’m excited for this opportunity that students will have in motivating them to pursue meaningful projects.”

Paula Camacho said, “I really enjoyed

getting to work with others who are enthusiastic about promoting youth involvement in their community. I appreciate the opportunity to share my experience and grow in a group setting.”

As a student trustee, Morielle attended many meetings with opportunities to speak up on a variety of issues. The most meaningful, she said, was the resolution to raise the Harvey Milk “Progress Flag” for the LGBTQIA+ community in the month of October.

“It’s a step toward inclusivity,” she said. Another meaningful resolution, she said, was to declare October as FilipinoAmerican History Month.

A senior, she will attend Cornell University in upstate New York.

The California State Seal of Civic Engagement was approved by the California State Legislature in September 2020 for students who demonstrate excellence in civics education and participation, and demonstrate understanding of the U.S Constitution, the California Constitution, and the democratic system of government.

Michael Berman, director of equity, accountability and federal and state programs, said, “This award is one way for PVUSD to recognize and reinforce the importance of civic engagement and build a culture of positive, forward-thinking youth engagement in our community as they contribute to our global society. We are proud of our students who have earned the seal in this, our first year.”

Dr. Michelle Rodriguez, PVUSD superintendent of schools, along with Board President Dr. Jennifer Holm, congratulated each student.

School officials hope that 2024 will see many PVUSD students meet the requirements for this recognition. n

Morielle Mamaril at her induction as the Pajaro Valley Unified School District student trustee.

PVUSD: Third Annual Raising of the Progress Flag

The Pajaro Valley Unified School District board approved a resolution in February 2021 to promote a culture of acceptance and raise awareness around issues impacting LGBTQ+ students.

As a result, PVUSD flies the progress flag on three special occasions: On May 22, in honor of Harvey Milk Day, throughout the month of June and on Oct. 11, National Coming Out Day.

On May 22, the Pajaro Valley school district hosted a ceremony to raise the “Progress Flag” at the district office, 294 Green Valley Road, Watsonville, with students and staff speaking about this symbolic gesture.

Student Trustee Morielle Mamaril said, “Through allyship and a greater sense of belonging, the rainbow flag embodies the free and safe expression of all who step foot in our schools. Yet recognizing is one thing, and celebrating is another. I hope we as a district continue to

honor those of the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond.”

Dr. Michelle Rodriguez, PVUSD superintendent, said, “This event is an opportunity to increase awareness, support equity and promote safety for LGBTQ+ students and the community in which we live.”

PVUSD is using the 6-stripes rainbow flag that also includes black and brown stripes for black and indigenous people of color within the queer community. The added blue, pink and white colors of the flag are in support of transgender youth.

At Aptos High, the choir, led by choir director Holly Ota on guitar and accompanied by student Ronja Eifort on guitar, sang “True Colors.”

As Harvey Milk said, “All young people, regardless of sexual orientation or identity, deserve a safe and supportive environment in which to achieve their full potential.” n

Santa Cruz County Fair: Home Grown & Locally Shown!

The Santa Cruz County Fair announces the theme of the 2023 Fair and the winner of the Fair Theme Contest.

Drum roll please…

The Fair theme is “Home Grown and Locally Shown!”

The theme beautifully cap tures the spirit of the Fair and the agricultural roots of the community. The winning theme comes from

Kathryn Doman of Watsonville. Not only is Kathryn a fan of the Fair, but she’s also a neighbor.

“I live right next door to the fairgrounds in the house that I grew up in. It’s truly a joy to be neighbors with the fairgrounds. The love for this area lives deep within my heart. Thank you for considering my suggestion,” says Kathryn.

New Judge: Leila Sayar

Leila Sayar, 46, who immigrated from Iran, has been appointed to serve as a judge in the Santa Cruz County Superior Court and will take the oath of office in June.

A criminal defense attorney, she fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge John Gallagher.

She was an attorney at Biggam, Christensen & Minsloff from 2012 to 2016 when the firm had the public defender’s contract with Santa Cruz County. She corepresented Adrian Gonzalez, 15, charged in the murder of Maddy Middleton, 8. He pleaded guilty and is in juvenile prison.

Sayar was a sole practitioner trial attorney from 2010 to 2012 and also since 2016 in San Jose.

She earned her law degree from New York Law School.

She was an associate at the Law Offices of Timothy A. Scott in San Diego in 2007, then became a deputy public defender at the Riverside County Public Defender’s Office from 2008 to 2010.

She graduated from UC San Diego in 1998 with a bachelor’s degree in women’s studies and political science.

According to her Linkedin profile, she speaks Persian.

She is a registered Democrat, according to the governor’s office, and will earn $231,174 annually. n

For submitting the winning theme, Kathryn receives a Fair VIP Family Pack. It includes a parking pass, four admissions, and carnival wristbands.

Thank you, Kathryn! At the Fair, which will take place Sept. 13-17, everything is Home Grown and Locally Shown!

The Santa Cruz County Fair celebrates the rich agricultural history of the community

and people and invests heavily in bringing this heritage to our youth.

The 2023 Fair will take place at the Fairgrounds on Highway 152 east of Watsonville. n

•••

Information on the Fair, and the Fairgrounds — a year-round entertainment and event venue, can be found at santacruzcountyfair.com

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Aptos High choir director Holly Ota, on guitar, and Ronja Eifort, on guitar, accompany students singing, “True Colors.”

Leila Sayar

County Health Officer Dr. Gail Newel to Retire

By Jondi Gumz

Santa Cruz County Health Officer Dr. Gail Newel, who led during the Covid-19 pandemic, will retire June 23 after four years.

“Dr. Newel exemplified the spirit of public service through her courageous and principled leadership,” County Administrator Carlos Palacios said. “We will miss her guidance but wish her the best in her future endeavors.”

Newel was appointed July 2019, six months before American heard about the new coronavirus, which proved to be deadly for many people 65 and older and people who were obese and people with heart disease or chronic respiratory conditions.

County officials said her ability to communicate complex health information in a clear and relatable manner made her a trusted voice in the community, and she was a driving force for vaccination against Covid-19.

High Vaccination Rate

Santa Cruz County’s Covid-19 vaccination rate of 77.3% is one of the highest in California.

A total of 256 people died, mostly in 2020 and 2021, with fewer deaths as the Omicron variant became prevalent, and the last deaths in March 2022.

Death rates in Santa Cruz County were among the lowest in California, 100.7 per 100,000 cases, compared to 251.7 statewide.

In April 2020, Newel ordered beaches in Santa Cruz County closed during Easter weekend and much of Passover to reduce the threat of the virus spreading. At the time, early in the outbreak, little was known about the new coronavirus.

Newel also accurately predicted the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk would not open in the summer. As it turned out, under the state restrictions on business operations

to prevent the Covid-19 from spreading, that’s exactly what happened.

“It has been a great privilege to serve my community during these challenging past few years,” Dr. Newel said. “Many public health heroes supported me in my work, and I am indebted to each of them — thank you! In addition, I recognize the hard work and sacrifice of our community members, all of whom came together to protect the health of their family, friends, and neighbors.”

She added, “Together we saved many lives and protected the health of our most vulnerable. I look forward to retiring here among you. See you at the beach!”

Courage Award

Dr. Newel was awarded the 2021 PEN/ Berenson Courage Award with former county health services director Mimi Hall for their leadership during the pandemic.

“Dr. Newel’s remarkable career and contributions to public health have made her a trusted advocate and leader in her field,” Health Services Director Mónica Morales said. “Her unwavering commitment to improving the health and well-being of others continues to inspire and will make a lasting impact on the community.”

Later in the pandemic, in April 2022, Abhishek Singh and 11 researchers from the U.S., including Mayo Clinic and Hershey Medical Center, and India, with funding by the Austrian Science Fund, produced a paper in Cureus on “Vitamin D: The Missing Nutrient the Two Deadly Pandemics, COVID-19 and Cardiovascular Diseases.”

They cited a higher COVID-19 cases and death rates in African Americans

and Hispanics than European American, as most likely due to lower vitamin D levels as the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found 29% of Blacks had less than 10 ng/ml of Vitamin D.

This paper cited a pilot randomized clinical trial published in October 2020 showing a high dose of Vitamin D “significantly reduced the need for ICU treatment of patients requiring hospitalization due to proven COVID-19” and a 2020 study of 212 patients that found those with a Vitamin D level above 23.8 ng/ml had mild outcomes, while those with levels of 21.2 ng/ ml had severe cases, and those at 17.1 ng/ml were critical cases.

They also cited a 2008 review coauthored by Suzanne Judd, MPH, in Circulation, of studies on Vitamin D and heart disease, and although scientists have not figure out how Vitamin D protects, the conclusion was: “it may be prudent to screen individuals who are at highest risk for vitamin D insufficiency (institutionalized elderly, osteoporotic individuals, chronically ill patients, African-American patients, especially those with cardiovascular disease) and treat with vitamin D to a D level of 30 ng/ ml.”

During the pandemic, when Dr. Newel was asked about Vitamin D, she said there was not enough research.

Dr. Newel did focus on reducing public health disparities, spearheaded initiatives aimed at promoting community health and improving access to healthcare services.

On Aug. 16, 2020, Newel helped declare racism a public health crisis in Santa Cruz County, leading to a Board of Supervisors

resolution to incorporate educational efforts in all County departments to address racism, and a provision for the Health Services Agency and Human Services Department to join the Government Alliance on Race and Equity on behalf of the County.

She played a pivotal role in developing strategies to combat the opioid crisis. She promoted expansion of access to Narcan (Naloxone), a prescription medicine that reverses opioid overdoses.

On May 10, she received a letter of appreciation from the county’s Syringe Services Program Commission for her service.

Dr. Newel’s career began in clinical practice over 30 years ago.

She was clinical faculty with the UC San Francisco training program and as associate clinical professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She later served as medical director for Maternal Child and Adolescent Health in Fresno County’s Department of Public Health and as San Benito County’s health officer.

June 15 Update Her last public event as Santa Cruz County health officer will be a virtual presentation of the “State of the County’s Health,” 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday, June 15.

She will provide an update, followed by a moderated Q&A. To register, visit: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_O7DIHs3XTcauPRSxwSZWag#/ registration

A recording will be made available later at www.santacruzhealth.org. n

•••

Editor’s note: Santa Cruz County recruited for a new health officer in February and March. The position pays $226,574 - $303,680 a year. The county seeks a “skilled and innovative leader who naturally empowers, inspires, and motivates.”

EPA Gives Santa Cruz $128 Million Loan for Water System Upgrades

On May 16, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a $128 million loan to the City of Santa Cruz to upgrade the drinking water system to be more resilient to drought and climate change.

With this Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act loan, EPA is helping the City of Santa Cruz protect a water supply for nearly 100,000 residents.

The city will convert existing groundwater wells into aquifer storage and recovery wells and updating its raw water conveyance pipeline. Aquifer storage and recovery is a key strategy in the Mid-County Groundwater Sustainability Plan.

The project will also support treatment process upgrades to address current and

emerging contaminants, as well as source water quality variability.

Located in a drought-prone region, the City of Santa Cruz is wholly dependent on local water supplies.

The loan was announced during Infrastructure Week and 18 months since President Biden signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law –which provides a historic $50 billion investment to upgrade critical water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure.

“Western cities like Santa Cruz know how finite a resource water can be and must manage accordingly to deliver safe, reliable drinking water to residents, and the Biden-Harris Administration is committed to investing in water infrastructure through existing programs like WIFIA and

the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox.

“The WIFIA loan from the EPA allows Santa Cruz to make critical investments in securing our community’s water future, while saving our ratepayers substantial costs,” said Rosemary Menard, Santa Cruz water director. “We’re grateful for the opportunity the WIFIA loan provides to respond to the increasing challenges to water supply reliability posed by climate change.”

The interest rate is 3.9%, according to Santa Cruz spokeswoman Eileen Cross.

With the Federal Reserve raising interest rates, interest rates for municipal bonds have been about 5%.

By financing with the low interest rate of a WIFIA loan, the City of Santa Cruz estimates savings of about $18 million. The construction and operations for the project are estimated to create over 1,000 jobs.

The WIFIA program has an active pipeline of pending applications for projects that will result in billions of dollars in water infrastructure investment and thousands of jobs.

EPA is currently accepting letters of interest for WIFIA and SWIFIA loans. Learn more at https://www.epa.gov/wifia/ how-apply-wifia-assistance-1

In addition to WIFIA loans, there are many federal funding resources available for communities and utilities to improve water and wastewater resources. n

Gail Newel

Fascinating Africa Photos by Shem Compion & Mark Overgaard

Fascinating Africa: Using the Power of Photography to Nurture Its Nature, Empower Its Peoples will be presented in two inspiring and free sessions Thursday, June 1, at the Resource Center for Non-Violence, 612 Ocean St., Santa Cruz.

The speakers are renowned South African safari leader and conservation photographer Shem Compion

and award-winning image maker Mark Overgaard of Scotts Valley, who was born in Thailand.

Both emphasize ways in which photography can support conservation of Africa’s natural spaces and help empower the peoples who live in them.

This event is sponsored by the Scotts Valley-based Community of Digital Artists.

The program from noon to 5 p.m. with a light lunch is oriented to keen photographers, with multiple presentations and an image review segment where a set of participant images will receive constructive commentary and live editing from Shem.

Shem, a native of Africa, will give two talks, one on composing images to evoke emotion, the second on the benefits of constructing images with multiple mutually reinforcing elements, not just a simple subject.

Mark will present stories and images of the beautiful Suri people of Ethiopia, their art, language and culture. He’ll share challenges from this project and how he has addressed them and discuss a recently launched mother tongue education initiative.

The program from 7 to 9 p.m. targets adventurous travelers. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Shem will talk about non-traditional opportunities to

visit and support less frequented parts of Africa, experience distinctive cultures and exceptional natural ecosystems. Mark will talk about the Suri people, mother tongue education and current needs.

Attendees will see a popup exhibit of images from Mark’s Eloquent Suri of Ethiopia series on view on the walls, drawn from the first public exhibit of this work, which just closed in Cupertino.

Advance registration with Eventbrite is required. Here are the registration links:

• June 1, starts at noon: https://www. eventbrite.com/e/fascinating-africa-for-keenphotographerstickets-628796777087.

• June 1, doors open at 6:30pm: https://www. eventbrite.com/e/fascinating-africa-foradventurous-travelers-tickets-632360375907

Decades of commitment. Generations of caring.

At Dignity Health – Dominican Hospital, we’ve had the privilege of caring for you and your family for generations. Santa Cruz County relies on Dominican for comprehensive, advanced, award-winning care—including our nationally recognized cardiac program, Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, our Wellness Center with classes to keep patients healthy and strong, among many other medical specialties. Learn more about us at DignityHealth.org/Dominican.

Beneficial Plants for California’s Mediterranean Climate

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Riley Carrera Wins Hank Garcia Jr. Scholarship

Ever since she could remember, Riley Carrera has wanted to be a doctor. This vision for her future led her to the Red Cross Club and the Pre-Med club at Aptos High and the maintaining of a near 4.0 GPA with a strong focus in math and science.

But Riley is also an athlete playing varsity softball, basketball, and volleyball — and a volunteer with local youth basketball, Aptos High’s Student Sports-Medicine program, and Santa Cruz County Parks.

Riley balances her school, sports, and volunteering while also taking care of her grandmother who was diagnosed with dementia.

“I just learned to balance my schedule,” she said.

For her ambition and her dedication, Riley is one of five high school seniors to win the Hank Garcia Jr. & Family Scholarship — $2,000 a year for four years — awarded through Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, which awarded 34 scholarships in all.

The Retired Public Employees' Association of California

(RPEA) works to protect the pensions and health bene ts of all members of the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). With our pension and health bene ts dependent upon politics and the economy, we need to get our stories of public service out. For over 50 years the Surf City - Santa Cruz Chapter has been watching out for the interests of our local retirees.

Members are eligible for a range of bene ts including dental and vision insurance, pet insurance plans, and discounts at many venues.

We also have a monthly newsletter.

The next lunch meeting will be June 13, 2023.

Call Bill Philipps at 831-239-1154 for more information or visit the website: rpeasantacruz.org Just $60.00

Riley chose UC Davis “to stay kind of local, close to my family,” she said.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, Riley began baking as something to do at home. With practice, she soon was making cakes for birthday parties.

“My most popular is a two-layer chocolate cake with chocolate butter cream,” she said.

When COVID hit in spring of 2020, this year’s class of graduating seniors were in their first year of high school. In their last year of high school, Santa Cruz County was hit with back-to-back atmospheric rivers, a bomb cyclone, and devasting floods. In between, these students navigated distance or hybrid learning and the difficult emotional and economic fallout from the pandemic.

And yet this year’s awardees still excelled in class, volunteered in the community, played sports when they could, participated in clubs and extracurricular activities, and worked nights and weekends to help their families make ends meet.

“This year’s scholarship awardees are a reflection of who we are as a county,” says Susan True, CEO of the Community Foundation. “They are resilient in the face of disasters and personal hardship, they are enterprising problem solvers, they found joy in creative pursuits like dance and music and they competed toward team goals. They acted to protect our natural world, lift up others, and make their community more welcoming for all. It’s an extraordinary group of young people and we can’t wait to watch them succeed toward

high-quality degrees, in-demand careers, and as contributors to a thriving community.”

These scholarships are made possible thanks to local families who established funds at the Community Foundation. Donors have been inspired to give back to a school they loved, to support equitable access to opportunity, or to a honor loved one’s dedication to higher education.

For some, including the late Laura Segura—a cherished community leader who passed away in June 2022—starting a scholarship fund was a way to create a legacy of her love for this community’s youth. The Laura Segura Scholarship benefits youth involved in the juvenile justice or foster care systems and the first three students awarded received $4,000 toward their costs to attend Cabrillo College, San Francisco State University, and UC San Diego, respectively.

Scholarships ranged from $1,000 to $20,000 and totaled $258,600.

Over four decades, the Foundation has awarded nearly $2 million in scholarships to 400+ students.

One-third of the awardees come from families with no financial ability to contribute to their student’s education. Two-thirds are first generation college students, turning their parents’ and grandparents’ dreams of higher education into a reality. Among them are future teachers, lawyers, doctors, nurses, engineers, computer scientists, political leaders, agricultural entrepreneurs, and biomedical researchers.

This year the Community Foundation found a new way to support not just the awardees, but all 157 applicants, by offering access to a financial aid expert to help them understand the costs they faced, and the options they had.

Emi Tabb helped awardees and applicants alike learn how to negotiate colleges’ aid offers, maximize the public funding available to them, and minimize taking out private loans. With rising interest rates, this is very important.

Kevin Heuer, Director of Engagement & Impact at the Community Foundation says, “Choosing a college and figuring out how to pay for it is one the biggest financial decisions someone will make. Often, there is no one guiding them through that process. We wanted to make sure any applicant could get time with an experienced advisor like Emi to help them get the best offer from their school and make the smartest choice about where to attend.”

“Scholarships” page 14

Riley Carrera

“Scholarships” from page 12

Here are the 34 local students who received scholarships through Community Foundation Santa Cruz County in 2023:

• JUDY ANTON WOMAN OF VALOR / LUPITA LOVES TO READ PROJECT SCHOLARSHIP: Zoe Barrera, Soquel High (UC Santa Cruz)

• R.H. BEEL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP: Ruben Canchola-Jimenez, Santa Cruz High (Cabrillo College)

• BURTON SCHOLARSHIP: Andrew Alvarado, Watsonville High (UC San Diego); Maya Manildi, Harbor High (UC Berkeley); Greta Mitchell, Santa Cruz High (UC San Diego); Rachelle Pastor-Juarez, Watsonville High (UC Los Angeles); Grace Shipp, San Lorenzo Valley High (Willamette University)

• BOB & BETSY DARROW SCHOLARSHIP: Nadia Gomez Cruz, Santa Cruz High (San Francisco State University); Leslie Valdivia Mendoza, Harbor High (San Francisco State University)

• JACK DEBORD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP: Katie Wise, San Lorenzo Valley High (Point Loma Nazarene University)

• HANK GARCIA JR. AND FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP: Riley Carrera, Aptos High School (UC Davis); Morielle Mamaril, Watsonville High (Cornell University); Alondra Martinez, St. Francis High Cal Poly SLO); Abigail Rader, Monte Vista Christian (Pepperdine University); Karla Leyva, Pajaro Valley High (Yale University)

• EMMETT & ELSIE GEISER SCHOLARSHIP: Nadia Ramirez-Cerrillos, Aptos High (San Jose State University); Ana Ruiz-Macias, Watsonville

High (UC Irvine)l; Karla Leyva, Pajaro Valley High School (Yale University)

• LAURA SEGURA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP: Lexus Castrejon-Cervantes, Aptos High (San Francisco State University); Reyna Maharaj, Saint Francis High (UC San Diego); Anonymous, Santa Cruz County Office of Education School (Cabrillo College)

• ISABEL FOWLER SEWELL SCHOLARSHIP: Aramis Diaz, Pajaro Valley High (Cabrillo College); Jose Gonzalez Arreola, Pajaro Valley High (CSU Monterey Bay); Julissa Rocha, Pajaro Valley High (UC Los Angeles); Brandon Romero, Pajaro Valley High(UC Santa Cruz); Adilene Solano, Pajaro Valley High (Cabrillo College)

• BERT & CAROLYN POST SCHOLARSHIP: Victoria Zumaya Long, Santa Cruz High (University of Hawaii Mānoa)

• LOUIS J. & MARY ELLEN SCHULTZ SCHOLARSHIP: Sofia Cunha, Aptos High (UC Berkeley), YaQi Wang, Harbor High (UC Irvine)

• SIMUNOVICH FAMILY AGRICULTURE SCHOLARSHIP: Priscilla Noh, Watsonville High (The Master’s University)

• BARBARA J. THOMPSON SCHOLARSHIP: Estrella Contreras, Santa Cruz High (UC Berkeley), Emma Lin, Harbor High (UC Berkeley), Lynda Otero, Soquel High (UC Berkeley), Amy Canizal-Flores, Harbor High (UC Berkeley)

• JOHN L. TURNER SCHOLARSHIP: Selina Salvador-Lopez, Watsonville High (San José State University)

••• For information visit: https://www.cfscc.org/ scholarships

Natasha’s Run: June 10 at Aptos Village Park

Arukah Project is a Santa Cruz-based nonprofit that works to restore, renew, and rebuild the lives of sex trafficking survivors in Santa Cruz County. Every week there are between 100-200 sex trafficking victims in Santa Cruz County — and Natasha was one of those local victims.

Now a survivor, Natasha’s run for justice took her more 15 years. She fought for her voice to be heard, for people to believe her, and to see her trafficker brought to justice.

Due to her unwavering determination, her trafficker was sentenced to 174 years in prison, preventing him from ever terrorizing another victim again.

“My journey from victim to survivor was a long and challenging one. No one understood what I had been through,” Natasha shared. “I’m not only from here but I was trafficked here. The hardest part is

knowing there were so many opportunities for someone to see something and say something but due to the lack of education and awareness, it was almost a whole year before I was rescued. During that time, I frequented local restaurants, movie theaters, grocery stores, and was kept in a house in the suburbs, all while being trafficked. I was hidden in plain sight.”

She added, “The stereotype of the scary man in the van, or the images in movies are not the reality of human trafficking. We must steer away from this kind of thinking if we’re going to have any chance of decreasing trafficking in our community. And it isn’t just trafficker stereotypes, we need to understand that predators don’t discriminate. Human trafficking can happen to anyone of any race, gender, age and socioeconomic class.”

“Natasha’s Run” page 19

Great Summer Savings!

Buy 7 Anlin windows and 1 Anlin door from Aptos Glass, and have us install it, and we will upgrade the door to have a pet door insert for your furry family member compliments of Aptos Glass & Ideal Windows, Inc.

Come by our showroom to discuss your project in detail and view samples from our large collection!

(831) 662-9272

carrie@aptosglass.com 402 Trout Gulch Road Aptos, CA 95003

Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm, Saturday by appointment only.

Ways to Give …

• All donations are directed to improve Aptos school sports related facilities and activities, “For Our Kids.”

• ASF works in partnership with PVUSD to ef ciently develop facilities at AHS and its feeder schools.

• Support from the community in the form of donated funds, donated material and labor, means we can complete projects economically. Ways

Proud partnership with:

Pregnant Mare Rescue

Mt. Madonna School Valedictorians & Salutatorian

Mount Madonna School announces Cecily Kelly, Mariah Cohen and Samuel Kaplan as the 2023 co-valedictorians and Zoey Ocampo-Sobkoviak as salutatorian.

Cohen, Kaplan and Kelly started attending MMS as preschoolers, and Ocampo-Sobkoviak in fifth grade.

The 2023 high school graduation ceremony will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 15 at the school’s upper campus.

Mariah Cohen Cohen will attend UC Los Angeles and plans to major in biology or marine biology.

“I chose UCLA for a number of reasons: it is a top public university in the nation, and getting the opportunity to study there is amazing,” said Cohen. “I also considered location when making my college decision. Adjusting to a city like Los Angeles will take some time, but I think it will be good for me to get to experience life somewhere so different from Santa Cruz, where I’ve lived my whole life. I chose UCLA ultimately because I know I will be challenged there, but it is such a wonderful opportunity for me to grow both as a student and as a person.”

As for her teachers, she said, “Nicole Silva Culbertson inspires me to stick to my values and stand up for what I believe in. She is very expressive of her opinions, and I love her for it. John Welch has been pushing me to explore science and what I can do in STEM through his physics classes, and I’m so appreciative of him. Any time I want to quit or don’t trust myself to do something in class, John is right there to pick me up and push me forward. I will always keep him in mind whenever I’m doubting myself, and I’m really glad to have him as a teacher.”

One takeaway from Mount Madonna School is “getting along with people that you may not necessarily gravitate toward; our small school is a virtue in this way. When you’re in a class size of 10 people, you learn to be friends with the other nine. We know how to support each other and work through our issues because we are around

each other so much. I’ve learned from being a Mount Madonna student to work with people who are different from me and be friends with people who I wouldn’t necessarily go up and talk to on my own.”

She lives in Watsonville; her parents are Barbara and Morty Cohen.

Samuel Kaplan

Kaplan will attend Purchase College, State University of New York.

“I will be studying dance in college and my decision was very difficult,” said Kaplan. “I eventually chose SUNY Purchase because it is one of the top dance programs in the country and I thought the vision of the dance program aligned with what I want to do.”

As for his teachers he said, “Teacher John Welch continues to inspire me. His physics class has taught me to view science, and the world differently. I always asked myself questions about the world, but after taking John’s class I also ask myself how (through what method) I could answer my own questions about the world.”

One takeaway is that Mount Madonna School “has made me a much more outgoing person than I would have been had I gone to a different school. Through performing arts and the small community that Mount Madonna cultivates, I got a lot better at interacting with, speaking with and debating with people.”

He lives in Santa Cruz; his parents are Beth Brennan and Craig Kaplan.

Cecily Kelly

Kelly will attend UC Santa Barbara. “I chose UCSB because it has great educational opportunities, and I love the campus and how close it is to the beach,” said Kelly.

“I am currently undeclared in the College of Letters and Sciences but plan on majoring in psychological and brain sciences.”

“MMS Vals & Sals” page 21

Mariah Cohen

Samuel Kaplan

Cecily Kelly

Arukah Project: Devoted to a Mission

Heather Goode, who raised her three sons in Aptos and now lives in San Lorenzo Valley, and Loreal Weitzel, a Santa Cruz County resident since age 6 and a certified human trafficking caseworker who has worked with trafficked teens in group homes and as a Court-Appointed Special Advocate for abused children in the foster care system, are co-founders of the Arukah Project to rebuild the lives of survivors of sex trafficking in Santa Cruz County and beyond.

They are organizing the second annual Natasha’s Run June 10 at Aptos Village Park as a fundraiser for their mission.

They answered questions from Aptos Times.

•••

What prompted you to start the Arukah Project? Heather: I think for me, what started Arukah Project wasn’t just one thing, it’s really a culmination of lifelong passion, a deep calling and practical experience.

Since I was young, I always knew that I had a calling to serve and support women. I have spent over 3 decades as a women’s leader in local churches. I am a speaker and author and love helping women.

At the same time I was an owner and manager of a local business and have a lot of experience in business startup, development, networking and leadership.

At the age of 46, I decided to make a life change and leave the business world to pursue my passion full-time. Arukah Project is the place where everything comes together for me. It is what I am meant to be doing.

Loreal: I had always been drawn to people in need. I wanted to be a lawyer for abused women and children, and then a psychologist for abused women and children. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from UC Santa Cruz in 2015, and afterwards went on a mission trip to Perth, Australia, with Youth With A Mission (YWAM) and this school was called priceless.

On that side of Australia, prostitution is legal, and it was there that I discovered the realities of prostitution and sex trafficking and where I found my calling to work with survivors.

I love working with

adults but my heart also beats for trafficked children, and that’s what prompted me to start our foster family agency, Sought After, that specifically focuses on Ccmmercially sexually exploited children. Tell me what Arukah means and why you chose this name for the nonprofit.

Heather: Arukah means “restoring to wholeness in spirit, soul and body.” More than a program, Arukah is defined as an ongoing process of restoration, a journey. Removing the idea of a “finish line” allows all of us to embrace the process with patience and grace.

The holistic nature of the word is a good reminder that in order to be healthy we need to pay attention to all parts of us, our physical, emotional, psychological, relational and spiritual health.

We are constantly reminded that even as leaders, we ourselves are always in the Arukah process and we come alongside our clients, side by side, and walk through life together.

How does this nonprofit help women who have been exploited and forced into the sex industry?

Heather: Arukah works with both adult survivors and commercially sexually exploited children in the foster care system. We have been working with adults since 2018 focused on our five initiatives of outreach, integrated health, storytelling, mentoring and empowerment.

Our licensed foster family agency, called Sought After, works with trafficked minors.

We are passionate to find resource families, equip them and support them as they care for these vulnerable children.

Heather Goode, Loreal Weitzel, and Natasha

We also recognize that the greatest tool we have in the effort to stop human trafficking is prevention. We have a training platform called Truth2Freedom that aims to educate the community on the realities of human trafficking in our county, how to protect their children, recognize the signs of trafficking and what to do if they or someone they know needs help.

We host a variety of courses (both online and in person) catered to adults, teens, churches, local organizations, businesses and first responders .

Loreal: We focus on empowering the survivor, equipping the community, and networking resources through our multi-disciplinary, integrated, holistic, victim-centered, trauma-informed approach. This allows us to take the perspective that it really does take a village to help a victim go from victim, to survivor, to thriver.”

What impact have you seen since you started?

Heather: I think our impact is seen in many ways in our community.

Besides the obvious of directly helping survivors, we realized that in order to do this kind of work effectively we couldn’t do it alone.

Over the last few years, in spite of Covid, we have been able to build a quality network that can support the real needs of victims. Building relationships with other providers in our area and creating a space where we can work together. Bringing together the community, businesses, churches, government, social services, nonprofits, and various professional care providers is essential.

‘I think we have been able to catalyze the conversation around the realities of trafficking, and predators hiding in plain sight right here in our community. We are helping people see that trafficking isn’t “those people” “over there.”

It’s here, it’s our kids, it’s our neighbors.

Victims come from every demographic and socio economic class, predators can be anyone, it’s not just girls, it’s boys. And so on. n

“Natasha’s Run” from page 15

She explained, “People were sometimes confused when they heard my story because I didn’t look like the image that they thought a victim should look like. People would say to me ‘well you don’t look like a victim’ and I would have to respond with “What does a victim look like?’”

Now the national training director for Arukah Project, Natasha helped Arukah Project launch a prevention program called Truth2Freedom (www.truth2freedom. training) to help families, schools, businesses, churches and first responders learn how to identify trafficking, report predators, and keep themselves and their loved ones safe. “The Defender Series” is a training for parents.

Natasha said, “I am so blessed to have the life I do now. It was not easy to get here but I made it. I enjoy every moment I have and appreciate all of it. I’m grateful for this

second chance at life I’ve been given. But no matter how great my life is now; it is my duty and responsibility to continue to speak out. It is my purpose. I leave you with this…. How many more victims do we have to see in our community before we do something about it?” n

For information about Arukah Project, visit www.ArukahProject.org

•••

The second annual Natasha’s 5k Run for Justice, presented by Arukah Project, will be Saturday, June 10, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m at Aptos Village Park in Aptos, with registration at 7:30 a.m.

This will be an all-ages event. After the 5k run/walk through Nisene Marks State Park, attendees are welcome to enjoy activities, including face painting, bounce houses, a concert by the danceable Alison Sharino Band that starts at 10 a.m., food trucks, a beer and wine garden. Register to run at https://raceroster.com/ events/2023/73132/natashas-run-for-justice#

Alison Sharino Band

Insights Into Infertility

By Dr. Maureen Rozenn, LAC, DAOM, FABORM, Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)®

June is World Infertility Awareness Month, which was created to bring awareness to the scope of this issue, debunk myths, introduce couples to fertility enhancing solutions, and provide hope to the millions of people worldwide who are struggling to build their families.

Infertility impacts men and women all over the world. According to the World Health Organization, 15-20% of people experience infertility within their lifetime, leading WHO to dub infertility a worldwide health problem.

The diagnosis of infertility is generally given to couples who do not conceive after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse. If the female partner is over 35, the diagnosis of infertility can be given after 6 months. The term also applies to women with a history of frequent miscarriage.

We tend to assume that the responsibility of infertility lays with the female partner, but that is simply untrue. Looking at the statistics: 1/3 of the time infertility is the woman’s “fault”, 1/3 of the time it is the man’s “fault” and in 1/3 of cases a couple’s infertility has its roots in both partners. Thus, 2/3 of the time the male partner has some influence on the couple’s fertility struggles! Yet, I rarely see both men and women wanting to build their families in my practice.

Why?

I believe that most people do not know how big of a role men play in infertility. For example, while many people know a women’s fertility declines as she ages, few are aware that the same is true for men. By age 40, men’s fertility starts to decline. While a lot of weight is placed the women’s age, men’s fertility declines with age as well.

Male fertility is plummeting around the world and is cause for great concern. We are seeing negative trends in sperm rates across the globe. The big question is why.

There are many theories, but chemical pollutants, pharmaceuticals, alcohol use, smoking and stress can all have a detrimental effect on the key components of sperm health: enough fluid, good shape, motility and DNA.

An interesting fact that many people, even reproductive endocrinologists (RE), do not know is that cannabis has an detrimental effect on male fertility. From changing sperm shape, motility, DNA, hormonal balance and reducing testicle size, cannabis has been linked to male infertility in both animal and human studies for years. Cannabis also has a deleterious effect on female fertility, pregnancy and the postpartum era. Thus, in my practice I offer alternatives to cannabis so that patient’s needs (sleep, appetite stimulation, stress reduction, etc.) are met.

My job is to provide information and give options, but not to insist patients make diet and lifestyle changes they are not able or willing to make at the time.

In terms of women, age is one of the more well-known causes of infertility. Other conditions that predispose women to infertility are polycystic ovary syndrome, diminished ovarian reserve, endometriosis, irregular menstrual cycles, infections, and reproductive organ structural issues. Most women who have trouble conceiving go to their OB/GYN for advice.

Frequently they are referred to a RE for evaluation and treatment. This path often involves in vitro fertilization (IVF). This is often an expensive road and depending on the root cause of infertility has a wildly varying degree of success.

In my practice I work with women (and hopefully men!) prior to embarking on Western treatment, during IVF cycles, or when Western treatment was not successful. One of my passions is working with women who have been told that they are too old to get pregnant. Earlier this year I had one mom aged 42 and another, aged 45 give birth. Both of them came to me during a failed IVF cycle.

Given that infertility is a world-wide issue, studies have been conducted across the globe showing East Asian Medicine can dramatically improve male and female fertility through acupuncture,

herbal medicine, nutritional supplements and dietary therapy.

In addition to describing the problem of infertility, plus giving information and solutions, Infertility Awareness Month has the goal of providing hope. There is hope for the 15-20% of you reading this article struggling with infertility; you have options.

Riding the rollercoaster of disappointment every month can leave couples feeling overwhelmed and depressed. If you are not experiencing infertility but know someone who is, let them know that they are not alone and that there is help.

•••

Dr. Maureen Rozenn has been helping women become pregnant for over two decades. After attaining a doctoral (DAOM) dual specialization in women’s health and pain management, she went on to become the first female DAOM to become a fellow of the Acupuncture and TCM Board of Reproductive Medicine.

Dr. Rozenn authored a book on fertility and co-authored several research studies examining the effects of different acupuncture protocols on IVF outcomes. She has enjoyed teaching the amazing field of integrative fertility to doctoral students since 2010.

Dr. Rozenn blends East Asian Medicine, Japanese acupuncture, and functional medicine to enable her patients to reach their health goals at her private practice in Santa Cruz. n

•••

For more information, contact her at 831.426.1093 or office@acupuncturesantacruz.net

Maureen Rozenn

“MMS Vals & Sals” from page 16

As for her experience at Mount Madonna School, she said, “The connections I’ve made with my peers and teachers are especially meaningful. I am inspired by Head of School Ann Goewert; she is always the first person at school, and the last to leave and does so much for the school community.”

Kelly lives in Capitola. Her parents are Shannon and Carson Kelly.

Zoey Ocampo-Sobkoviak

Ocampo-Sobkoviak will attend Tulane University to study ecology and environmental biology this fall.

“I am choosing to attend Tulane University because it has an excellent interdisciplinary biology program and plenty of opportunities for me to do field work or study abroad,” said Ocampo-Sobkoviak.”Tulane undergraduates also have access to all of their

five colleges, which means I can more easily double-major in theatre or Latino studies. I love Tulane’s campus, the city of New Orleans, and all of the choices of student clubs and athletics for me to be a part of. The emphasis the university puts on service learning will help me pursue social and environmental activism in the local community.”

What inspires her is “all of the teachers and staff who I interact with on a daily basis that show up with intention and a strong work ethic.” She added, “I know that it can be difficult to work with a bunch of kids, so I think they deserve all the flowers.”

One takeaway: “One of the most meaningful things I have experienced as an MMS student is the space I have been given to cultivate my world views and think critically. While who I am today is also influenced by experiences outside of MMS, I think MMS has helped me feel confident in my ability to think for myself and not be influenced too much by what others think of me.”

She lives in Watsonville. Her parents are Sara Sobkoviak and Jose OcampoBriceno. n

Zoey Ocampo-Sobkoviak

Photo courtesy of Mount Madonna School MMS senior class 2023. From left: Samuel Kaplan, SUNY Purchase; Cecily Kelly, UC Santa Barbara; Sandy Astone, Clarkson University; Zoey Ocampo-Sobkoviak, Tulane University; Mariah Cohen, UC Los Angeles; Sky Weir, undecided; Bella Cambell, UC San Diego; Jacob Sirk-Traugh, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

Pure Water Soquel Pipeline 90% Complete

Pure Water Soquel construction has been underway since Spring 2021.

Pure Water Soquel will:

• Replenish the local groundwater basin to prevent further seawater intrusion, and be a sustainable water supply that meets the community’s goals and values, and the State’s mandate under the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act.

• Be a reliable, drought and climate change-resistant supplemental water source, which contributes to the diversification of the District’s water supply portfolio and enhances resiliency.

• Provide District customers with a high-quality and safe water supply. Pipeline construction has been ongoing since May 2021, and is 90% complete as of March. The Water Purification

Center (located at the corner of Chanticleer Avenue and Soquel Avenue) and the Recycled Water Facility (located at the Santa Cruz Wastewater Treatment Facility) broke ground in December 2021 and construction is anticipated to last through early 2024.

We have built three recharge wells (two in Aptos and one in Capitola) to replenish the groundwater basin with the purified water produced from the Water Purification Center.

“Pure Water Update” page 31

By Rebecca Gold Rubin

Pipeline Construction

Who Should Be Banned from Flying? Congress Asks

Is it time to finally ban screaming babies from the plane? How about argumentative passengers? Or people who smell bad?

Those are serious questions. With the busy summer travel season right around the corner, Congress is considering a nationwide no-fly list for disruptive passengers.

Banning the biggest troublemakers in the skies, as the Protection from Abusive Passengers Act proposes, is an idea worth considering. So maybe this is the right time to figure out who belongs on that list.

Here’s the official answer: Under the law, passengers would land in the no-fly database for one of several offenses, including a conviction for assaulting, threatening or intimidating a crew member of an aircraft.

Unofficially, passengers have far different opinions on who should get grounded. And they are not shy about creating their own no-fly list, sometimes on the fly. Consider the recent Frontier Airlines flight in which passengers voted to remove an unruly passenger. Talk about frontier justice.

But making a “no-fly” list of disruptive passengers may be impractical when you start thinking about it. There may be a more effective way to deal with difficult air travelers.

Should we ban babies?

Bottom line: Banning all babies is impractical, and probably also illegal. But it wouldn’t surprise me to see a viral video incident or two this summer involving irresponsible parents getting kicked off a flight.

How about disruptive passengers?

Misbehaving passengers are another category of bannable flier. And here, too, it’s clear that air travelers have a broader definition than lawmakers.

By Christopher Elliott

On second thought, maybe no one should be banned.

All this talk of banning may be taking us to the wrong place. Stopping a violent or unruly passenger from flying is only the beginning. Margaret King, director of The Center for Cultural Studies & Analysis, says other groups could quickly follow, including anger management failures, drug addicts, and “maybe even passengers who are anxious and depressed.”

It could soon spiral out of control. People with comfort animals or carrying too much luggage could follow.

“It could become a long and inclusive list,” adds King. “Any condition that promotes disruptive behavior would be eligible. And that, when you think about it, is a widely distributed trait.”

Here, too, we’re entering dangerous airspace. Do we need to pass a psych evaluation to get permission to fly?

Should air travelers pass the sniff test? Of course, it’s not just behavior that can get you banned. It’s also how you smell. Or look. Every summer, there’s at least one well-publicized incident involving a passenger wearing an inappropriate T-shirt. Flight attendants order the passenger to change shirts, the passenger makes a TikTok about it, and life goes on.

Come to think of it, this idea of having a nationwide no-fly list might be a terrible idea, too. We already have a way of preventing criminals from boarding a flight. It’s called prison. And how about terrorists? There’s a terrorist watchlist.

Airlines and their friends in Congress believe the best way to stop more unruly flier incidents is to stop the unruly fliers from boarding. But maybe the fliers are unruly because flying is such a dehumanizing experience. Fix that and maybe you won’t need a no-fly list.

Babies

— especially the screaming ones — are high on the list of in-flight annoyances. And those of you without kids will probably add, “Is there any other kind?” Who can forget that viral video of an adult passenger on a recent Southwest Airlines flight losing it because of a screaming infant?

Under normal circumstances, air travelers are far less vocal about getting rid of babies on planes. Some travelers have told me that well-behaved children should be able to fly. But responsible parents ought to carefully consider their air travel plans if they know they have a cranky little flier.

It becomes a much more interesting debate when you ask if babies should be allowed in first class. Passengers have quietly signaled their support for child-free premium cabins, or at least a kids’ section in the back of the plane.

“Being disruptive in what could be a dangerous situation is unacceptable,” says William Muller, a restaurant manager from Miami who travels to Europe frequently.

“If someone has so little self-control that they can’t wait until the plane lands to address whatever issue they have, then they should not be allowed to fly.”

Mueller defines disruptive as a passenger who is so out of control that the plane has to be diverted or resulting in the passenger needing to be removed from the plane before takeoff. But he says other air travelers may have a more inclusive definition of disruptive.

They do. If by “disruptive” you mean the person sitting next to me who can’t stop talking, then we could be talking about half the plane. What about the guy who keeps hitting up the flight attendant for another drink — or hitting on the flight attendant?

Smells are more complicated. How do you define a bad smell? Is it someone wearing too much perfume? The wrong perfume? Someone who skipped a shower that morning? Someone who doesn’t believe in showering? Flight attendants have to make that call quickly when everyone is piling on board. And then, if you happen to be stuck next to someone who stinks, you have to deal with it.

How about sick passengers? They shouldn’t fly, either, if they’re contagious. Janet Ruth Heller recently sat in front of two passengers who were coughing and sneezing the entire flight.

“They were not wearing masks, and they did not cover their mouths with their hands,” recalls Heller, a frequent traveler and retired college professor from Portage, Mich. “I caught their disease and was very ill for a month.”

So now we have to medically screen passengers? This is getting complicated.

Elliott’s strategies for handling a disruptive flier Are you ready to share a plane with a disruptive passenger? Neither am I, but here are my strategies for surviving the flight.

Move to a different seat. The best advice for handling a problem passenger is not to handle one at all. Discreetly ask a flight attendant if you can move to a different part of the plane. Or, if there’s an empty seat in the same class of service, just move.

Apply gentle peer pressure. For baby-on-board incidents, a polite and nonconfrontational appeal to the parents can help. You know, if a toddler is using the tray table as a drum set, it’s OK to say something to Mom and Dad. The same strategy works with other groups, but don’t be too confrontational. Wouldn’t want to end up on TikTok now, would you?

“Baby on Board” page 26

Trauma-Informed Teaching, Chromebooks & Honors Classes

What’s your definition of “systemic transformation”?

Broadly defined, systemic transformation is a deep and fundamental change in a system’s form, function or processes to change patterns of behavior, structural elements (i.e. physical environments, resource allocation) and mental models (ie. assumptions, values and beliefs).

Specifically in PVUSD, we are realigning processes, procedures, funding allocations, and initiatives to our eight Local Control and Accountability Plan goals which focus on the development of the Whole Child, the Whole Family and the Whole Community orientation toward learning.

What is “trauma informed instruction and social emotional learning”?

concerns and providing encouragement or guidance when needed.

3) Regulation and Coping Strategies: Trauma can disrupt a child’s ability to regulate their emotions and behavior. Trauma-informed teaching may involve self-regulation techniques such as mindfulness exercises, deep breathing, or sensory breaks. Teachers also help students develop coping strategies to manage stress and anxiety. For example: During a particularly stressful time, a staff member might guide students through a short mindfulness exercise to help them relax and refocus their attention.

PVUSD Social Emotional Learning curriculum including Sanford Harmony, Sown to Grown, and Restorative Start lesson sets are all based on the CASEL Framework and California Department of Education’s Transformative SEL Competencies and Conditions for Thriving.

In addition, they are also being utilized to support students’ well-being in a responsive and timely manner.

The CASEL framework provides a foundation for communities to use evidence-based SEL strategies in ways that are most meaningful to their local context. It can be applied to many different priorities and aligned with each community’s strengths, needs, and cultures, including identity, belonging, and agency.

Chromebook out of the country and they will work normally as long as they are able to connect to an available wireless (WiFi) internet connection. This link has step-bystep instructions in Spanish and English on how to connect a Chromebook to a WiFi internet connection. Students can set their Google Drive documents to be editable in offline mode in order to be able to continue to work on them even when an Internet connection is not available.

Trauma-informed

teaching, also referred to as trauma-informed instruction, is an approach that acknowledges the impact of trauma on children’s learning and behavior and seeks to create a safe and supportive learning environment.

It recognizes that trauma can affect children’s cognitive, emotional, and social development, and provides strategies to help them thrive in the classroom.

Here are five key areas of focus:

1) Safety and Trust: Trauma-informed teaching prioritizes creating a safe and predictable environment where children feel secure. For instance, teachers may establish clear routines and expectations, provide a designated “safe space” for students to retreat to when overwhelmed, and use calming techniques like deep breathing exercises. For example: If a child becomes overwhelmed during class, the teacher might allow them to take a break in a designated quiet area until they feel ready to rejoin the classroom activities.

2) Building Relationships: Positive relationships are crucial for children who have experienced trauma. Teachers aim to build strong connections with students based on trust, empathy, and respect. They may provide opportunities for individual check-ins, offer support during challenging times, and celebrate achievements to foster a sense of belonging. For example: A staff member might set aside time for one-on one conversations with students, actively listening to their

4) Flexibility and Individualization: Recognizing that trauma affects children differently, trauma-informed teaching embraces flexibility in teaching methods and assignments. It acknowledges that students may need additional support, accommodations, or modifications to meet their unique needs. For example: Teachers may provide different options for completing assignments, such as written, oral, or artistic responses, allowing students to express themselves in ways that feel comfortable and meaningful.

5) Collaboration and Communication: Trauma-informed teaching emphasizes collaboration among teachers, parents, and other professionals involved in a child’s education. Open and ongoing communication is encouraged to share insights, concerns, and progress, ensuring consistent support for the child. For example: A staff member might initiate regular meetings or check-ins with parents and guardians to discuss the child’s progress, address any challenges, and share strategies that are working well in the classroom.

By understanding and embracing trauma-informed teaching principles, parents and guardians can support their child’s educational experience and collaborate effectively with teachers and other staff members to create a nurturing and inclusive learning environment.

This work is centered around the following competencies: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. All contribute to the development of social emotional wellbeing and citizenship.

The CDE developed the T-SEL competencies to affirm that SEL is “an essential part of a well-rounded, quality education in all youthserving settings.” Social and emotional learning is part of a high quality education for all students that supports academic performance, school climate, graduation rates, and other important developmental outcomes and life goals.

Will my child keep her Chromebook over the summer again this year? Can she take it with her on our vacations? I want her to keep using Lexia and MAP Accelerator during the summer. Once a PVUSD Chromebook is checked out to a student, it is theirs to use as long as they remain a student in the district. They keep the same device even when they move from one PVUSD school to another school.

PVUSD is committed to supporting student learning during winter, spring, and summer breaks, so we allow students to hold onto their Chromebook and encourage them to continue working in assigned instructional applications and to enroll in winter and summer instructional programs when possible.

PVUSD students can take their

The Tutorials for Students section of our Digital Learning Resources website has step-by-step instructions in Spanish and English on how to set up Google documents for offline mode. As always, it is very important for students to take very good care of their Chromebook and power adapter and make sure to protect them from damage especially while traveling. They should never take off the protective cover for any reason.

Can 18-year-old students excuse themselves from classes? Can they clear their own absences? How does that work?

Yes, per Education Code 46012: “For purposes of any procedure for verification of absences from school, a student 18 years of age or over, with respect to his own absences from school, shall have all of the responsibilities and powers.”

Can you explain the rationale behind making courses honors or not? When my son attended AHS , two classes were honors, but they are not considered honors classes now for my daughter. We are hearing now that three of her classes taken in 10th & 11th grade will become honor classes next year, but she won’t get the honors credit in her college transcript as they weren’t deemed an honor class when she was in it (classes she’s currently in now). It feels like the current year 11th grade students are at a disadvantage even though they are doing the same coursework.

PVUSD regularly reviews course content and sequence and when appropriate, seeks a change in designation (from college-prep to honors) from the University of California.

There are several English and Ethnic Studies courses that have had a change in status and are now honors courses for the 2023- 2024 school year in PVUSD: English 1 (honors), English 2 (honors), Ethnic Literature and Studies 2 (honors), and Ethnic Literature and Studies 3 (honors).

Q&A With Dr. Michelle Rodriguez, Superintendent, Pajaro Valley Unified School District

FEATURED COLUMNIST

There have also been changes in honors status for Career Technical Education courses. With a change in funding and California Department of Education required supervisory duties in the 2019-2020 school year, PVUSD assumed leadership of our CTE Program.

Since 2019, PVUSD has expanded our Career Technical Education offerings from standalone courses to what are now 24 statealigned pathways reflecting 63 A-G courses that serve our students with a path to college, career, leadership and life readiness.

From 2019 to the present, Julie Edwards, our District CTE coordinator, our CTE teachers, and CTE partners have worked tirelessly to increase both the number and the rigor of CTE courses PVUSD students have the opportunity to experience.

This year, due to approval applied for and granted from the University of California, PVUSD was fortunate to have several CTE courses designated as honors starting in the 2022-2023 school year. This was possible due to a change in circumstances where course alignment with a Cabrillo College course and an articulation agreement between the school and the college existed in 2022-23.

The honors designation is new for these courses, however the ability for our students to have earned Cabrillo College credit and subsequently possess a college transcript with earned college credit, has been in place for many, many years (this is known as “articulation”).

If a student took an articulated course, earned a B or better, and with their teacher’s recommendation, a Cabrillo College transcript reflecting the credit would be generated. Students who earned the Cabrillo College credit in this manner are able to report the information and provide a transcript as proof of performing at the college level when they apply to college.

In some cases, universities will take this under consideration in calculating the student’s GPA as the college credit is proof of competency and not based on an exam score such as in an AP course where the scores may come later in the academic year. Universities may grant transferable college credit when a student actually enrolls based on policies at their individual institution (much like universities either do or do not grant credit based on AP exam scores also at their discretion).

In addition, work began this year to review existing level 2 CTE courses that did not yet have an honors designation. PVUSD’s CTE Department has set an intentional goal of determining the honors level content that would need to be added to the level 2 CTE courses to justify an application to and approval from the University of California for reconsideration as an honors level course.

Any approved level 2 courses receiving an honors designation from the University of California for the 2023-2024 school year will not receive retroactive honors designation for previous school years because the honors-level 2 course will be a new course with new honors-level content. I am a teacher who had to take out various student loans and grants to fund my educational preparation. Each year, there are employment verification forms required by the CA Student Aid Commission CSAC (for Teach Grant); as well as PSLF form from FederalStudentAid.gov. As soon as I am notified by the agencies that it’s time to renew my employment verification, I send these forward to the HR Dept. How long of a turnaround time is customary to get these forms signed, faxed forward, and a copy scanned back to me? As a very busy teacher, I like to stay on top of these things and I feel a sense of closure; done; check that off my to-do-list. While waiting, it’s an unnecessary “hold” in the back of my mind that has to sit there and gets uncomfortable when three to four weeks pass by. Again, what turnaround time is customary on these types of forms?

Human Resources is aware that many staff need to have verification of employment forms filled out each year. When staff turn these forms into Human Resources, we do our best to complete them and send them back within 2 to 3 days. Occasionally, it will take us a little longer if we need to research an employee’s work history.

Knowing this is important to our staff, HR is currently working on creating a partnership with an established verification of employment provider so that in the future we can ensure the turnaround time on these forms is minimal.

Why are all of the District Office doors locked requiring a badge for entry but not the door to the back stairs?

The District is continuing to evaluate safety at the District Office building. In the original plans for the District Office, the back stairwell was unable to be transitioned to a card reader due to the type of door used to secure the stairwell.

We are working with Salto systems to evaluate this door and plan to utilize a card system in the future. We did not want to

discourage staff who prefer taking the stairs and currently have that door unlocked and available due to the fact that its location is not readily available to the public.

Once the reception area on the first floor is completed, we will continue to evaluate all entrances to the building.

Why is Hall School getting a psych for one day per week next school year, but Bradley gets more days?

The school psychologists in our District are itinerant staff. This means they are usually covering more than one site depending on the specialized programs at the site, and overall student population.

The psychologists schedule their time at the sites depending on assessments, student needs and general meetings.

A school like Hall has a smaller overall population and one specialized program, whereas Bradley has three specialized programs with two of them being for students with more intensive needs. However, if a need arises at a school like Hall, the school psychologist may spend 2 to 3 days at that site in a given week.

“PVUSD Q&A” page 26

Outdoor Fun

wish I ____, I wish I might...”

28. Cracked by yegg

30. Cowardly color

35. Slightly (2 words)

37. Matterhorn location

39. Charles III’s ex

40. She played Carla on “Cheers”

41. Nev.’s neighbor

43. Rotisserie skewer

44. Indianapolis team

46. Underwater “nose”

47. Color of a bruise

48. Trying experience

50. “The Breakfast ____”

52. p in mph

53. Ranee’s husband

55. ____ de plume

57. *Gather berries, e.g.

60. *Water slaloming

63. Soft single in baseball

64. *Sun “kiss”

66. Beau’s and Jeff’s acting dad

68. Cut-down sailing sheep

69. How many “if by sea?”

70. Have effect

71. Gibbons, e.g.

72. Coniferous tree

73. Rejuvenate or renovate

DOWN

1. Knee-related acronym

2. Make pretty (2 words)

3. Mushroom spore sacs

4. Shawn Mendes’ 2016 hit

5. Parts of a play

6. Secular

7. Commercial break clips

8. Fast food option

9. Looking for aliens org.

10. Get bacon?

11. H.S. math class

12. All Nippon Airways, acr.

15. Rattled on 20. Writer Asimov 22. Like icee 24. Not an original

25. *Call to Polo

26. Opposite of adore

27. Triangular road sign

29. *Capture it!

31. Speech defect

32. Drink like a cat (2 words)

33. Chilled (2 words)

38. Place for a house plant

Get an F

Serape, alt. sp.

Jet follower

Water-heating apparatus

Bulwark

Hundred Acre Wood creator

Wing motion

Exude

Winter precipitation

Person, place or thing

Swirling vortex

We are now under the light and influence of Gemini, the Light of Interplay. Gemini, the 3rd sign of the zodiac, is portrayed as twin brothers. At other times as two columns, Boaz and Jachin, of Solomon’s Temple (and Masonry).

The pairs symbolize opposites, polarity and dualism, inherent in our world. The two columns (black and white, left and right, moon and Sun) signify earthly knowledge (B) and spiritual knowledge (J), one the personality, the other the Soul. See the High Priestess card in the Rider-Waite Tarot deck.

Gemini, the first air sign of the zodiac, is the “thinker”. It is the thinking principle that lifts humanity up from the animal kingdom. Gemini energies alternate and flow in the air — here and there, up and down, and just about everywhere. The mind of Gemini is like a butterfly in a meadow of flowers, never alighting on one for long.

In Gemini there is mental restlessness and constant change that seems contradictory, which it is. Gemini’s task is to demonstrate this duality in our world so that it is in plain

ARIES

It’s time to step forward and recognize you are a leader, one who innovates and brings the light of knowledge to others. This light is what humanity needs to recognize their true selfidentity — as World Servers and Saviors. Whatever your discipline and vocation your words and actions are to be teachings for others. Then you will be seen as a “light bearer”. Before we can have true self-identity, we must have true knowledge. You are the mentor & teacher for this.

TAURUS

You take pride in your possessions, in your ownership of things. What you have is based on your values. But something is shifting now. A new set of values is coming forth. You no longer need to identify with what you own and what you’re worth based on possessions. This identity is the past. Not only must you create a secure and sustainable foundation, built to last, but you must also come into your creativity. Ponder on this. There are many levels of creativity.

GEMINI

You shine when you care for, make contact with and serve others. Your love opens the hearts of everyone, especially hearts that through suffering or sadness, loss or confusion, are closed. Because of this task you require times of rest, reflection and seclusion. Here you gather compassion so you can assist others whenever the need arises. Do not allow yourself to feel lonely. You are not alone. In your “isolated unity” we all stand with you.

CANCER

You have very high hopes, plans, agendas and goals, sometimes, no oftentimes, not expressed. It would be good if you could communicate what is in your heart. Sometimes you have a wide and open tolerance of others. Sometimes you forget. More and more you’re called to have a coherence of heart and mind. This calls for an upliftment from emotional choices to mental knowledge. Your close friendships are most important. Continue to keep them close.

sight. Behind this doublemindedness is a spirit seeking to fuse the many varied ideas into one harmonious whole. The display of dualism is Mercury. The fusion of the opposites is Venus. Gemini can be scatter brained or a genius. Geminis are adaptable and expansive, impressionable and intellectual. They are also childlike, quite charming and brilliant.

The Festival of Humanity, the Gemini solar festival at the time of the full moon. Saturday, June 3 is the Gemini festival, the Festival of Humanity, when the Forces of Reconstruction stream forth into our world. It is also World Invocation Day — using the Great Invocation, calling forth the Soul of humanity and the Soul of all nations. We call forth the Four Freedoms so that humanity may discern the truth, be led from darkness to light. Through the united power of thought and prayer, on this festival day, we create the thought-form of solution to humanity’s problems & together we can change the world. n

Music: Change the World — https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=x11NA63gLDM

LEO

What goals, successes, accomplishments and recognitions are you seeking? It’s important to realize your aspirations and ambitions because your capacity to lead is actually your purpose and when you know this, your energy is identified and focused. All levels of leadership are important to cultivate and this leads to your creativity and then to your success. Some Leos are shy. Shy ones can still be leaders. Quiet yet powerful ones. It’s about identity and purpose.

VIRGO

When Virgos turn their focus to the world around them, especially to their environments, especially to gardens and the other kingdoms in nature (mineral, plant, animal), they are able to control their restlessness and apply their vast organized and detailed state of knowledge to what is needed. Virgos are quite curious. But there is another call which is to venture out and be adventurous, quite unusual for Virgos. What could the Appalachian Trail and Spain’s Camino de Santiago (Way of St. John) mean for you?

LIBRA

Have you observed that your desires and aspirations have become intense, powerful and concentrated? The usual daily experiences are not enough. You need to go deeper, wider and higher, seeking what lies beneath the surface, and what lies within spiritual realms. Everything unexplored is magical and fascinating for you. Like the Hierarchy (inner world helpers), you must move in two directions — within and without, into deep emotional waters and into heaven itself — creating the Cross of Life. Libra balances all levels. Stay in love.

SCORPIO

For the next month or so create harmony wherever you are and whatever you do. Then take pride in creating that harmony in all interactions and relationships. You will feel the need to be close to loved ones, perhaps one or two in particular. You drop one or more of your veils of protection, knowing you’re safe being vulnerable and begin to say what you truly and deeply want and need. Social skills become easier. Peace results. This is a rare time for you. Observe and cherish it carefully.

SAGITTARIUS

All that you do concerning your work and profession are of course in relation to your sense of identity. Each day it’s most important to feel busy, to have activities planned and to produce work that is your very best. It is also important that you create Right Relations with everyone around you, including the kingdoms. If these are not cultivated each day, you somehow feel less than and it moves to depression. Upon waking each morning plan your day with intention to be a good steward to all you contact. Dedicate yourself to the Will to Love. The results are like magic!

CAPRICORN

You have special and unique qualities combined with a deep level of creativity. You must have time as well as opportunities to express yourself each day. You have a dry sense of humor, a bit ironic, a bit dramatic and a lot of fun. Eventually those who need to, notice you and this leads to new ventures and adventures. Knowing this calms your sense of restlessness. Children are most important for your creativity to emerge. Write the daily stories of your life down for future family generations.

AQUARIUS

You are private and protective about your home, family and personal life. You seek to find your way each day into a deeper sense of security and a foundation from which you can work. You seek to integrate all endeavors in your life under one roof. This is most practical and allows for greater flexibility. You seek emotional attachments so that your heart is not so lonely. Find a home first. Fill it with all that you love. Plant a garden, even a small one. Friends come by. They love you.

PISCES

You take walks each day because you need a change of scenery. You need life in all its forms, but especially people to talk and share with. You need new friendships and new conversations. You adapt well, but only to a point. You are a teacher and need to teach. You are curious about others, asking lots of questions. Many don’t understand you. You never use powerover with others. Only power-with. Sometimes you’re sad. You need music all the time. And beauty.

“Baby on Board” from page 23

Ask a flight attendant for help. Crewmembers are trained to handle confrontations with disruptive passengers. Again, you might want to ask the flight attendant for help — out of earshot of the disruptive passenger — unless the passenger is a screaming infant. n

•••

Christopher Elliott is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded Elliott Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes Elliott Confidential, a travel newsletter, and the Elliott Report, a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can email him at chris@elliott.org.

“PVUSD Q&A” from page 25

This type of schedule gives them the flexibility to support the needs of the students at a site.

Are schools still notifying parents of COVID via exposure notices? Schools no longer provide COVID-19 exposure notices to students. Instead, schools are asked to consider providing a general notification notice during times of elevated community transmission of COVID 19.

This communication can alert all to the increased potential of being exposed to COVID-19 due to a rise in cases among school and community members and remind all to monitor for symptoms and get tested.

Thank you so much to the negotiations team and payroll department for all the work that has gone into our new salary schedule! How do I figure out what column I am in and how many Continuing Education Units I need to get to column IV? What kind of opportunities is PVUSD providing for teachers to develop as educators while also earning CEUs?

Certificated employees can contact their HR Analyst or the HR Help Group to inquire about what step and column they are currently placed on.

Additionally, the analyst can also research how many units the employee needs to move to the next column. Although the District offers many different professional development opportunities through District staff, our PD is not accredited through any higher education institutions. One opportunity this summer is the Literacy Learning Lab June 26-30 at Amesti Elementary; email katryn_ bermudez@pvusd.net.

If you have any questions regarding options for obtaining CEUs in our county or surrounding areas, please reach out to Human Resources. Call (831) 786-2145. n

75th Anniversary of Israel Independence

When a bipartisan Congressional delegation led by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Bakersfield) visited Israel from April 30 to May 2 to celebrate and mark 75 years of independence, the group included U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley).

Panetta and the congressional delegation met with Israeli leadership, including Speaker of the Knesset Amir Ohana, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

According to Panetta, discussions centered around Israel’s history, its vibrant democracy, the strong and long relationship between Israel and the United States, threats to Israel’s national security, Middle East security and economics, regional relationships and the status of the Abraham Accords, Palestinian relations, the make-up of the current administration in Israel, recent proposals for judicial reforms in Israel, recent protests by the Israeli people to uphold their democracy, and the potential for a constitutional convention by the Israeli government.

The congressional delegation visited

Yad Vashem World Holocaust Remembrance Center to honor those killed in the Holocaust, the Western Wall, an archeological site in the

City of David, and Israel’s legislative body, the Knesset.

“It was an honor to celebrate and mark

Israel’s 75th anniversary and participate in dialogue and cultural exchanges as we work to strengthen the close relationship between Israel and the United States,” said Panetta.

He added, “However, as the only democracy in the Middle East, Israel is at the forefront of civil rights, the rule of law, economic opportunity, and the challenges that come with building a free, democratic, and pluralistic society. Israel continues to face threats both foreign and domestic to its security and to the core democratic values that form the foundation of our two countries. I look forward to the work ahead to fortify this critical partnership as we work together to foster peace, security, and democracy.”

Other attendees included Reps. Anthony D’Esposito (NY-04), Andrew Garbarino (NY-02), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Garret Graves (LA-06), Erin Houchin (IN09), Steny Hoyer (MD-05), Thomas Kean, Jr. (NJ-07), Nick LaLota (NY-01), Michael Lawler (NY-17), Julia Letlow (LA-05), Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Max Miller (OH-07), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), and Bruce Westerman (AR-04). n

Rep. Jimmy Panetta and the Congressional delegation are welcomed by speaker of the Knesset, Amir Ohana.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

ANNOUNCEMENTS

PARKS SURVEY: COUNTY WANTS YOUR INPUT

The Santa Cruz County Parks Department is working with partners, stakeholders, and community members on a 5-year update to its 10-year strategic plan.

A comprehensive bilingual survey has been drafted to gather feedback, which will help county staff better understand the wants and needs of the Santa Cruz County community and finalize this update to the Parks Strategic Plan.

Those who complete the survey and provide an email address will be eligible for free swim passes to the Simpkins Family Swim Center. The survey is at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DM2DGZC

LUNCH WITH SEN. JOHN LAIRD

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Dr. Aptos Chamber of Commerce plans its 4th luncheon meeting of the year Friday, June 9 at Seascape Golf Club with special guest speaker Senator John Laird.

Price: $35 per person. Reservations required. See http://aptoschamber.com/ or call 831-688-1467.

APTOS WINE WANDER

Saturday, July 1, 1-4 p.m., throughout Aptos Village (Soquel Drive/Trout Gulch Road)

Early Bird Pricing before June 15

The 5th Annual Aptos Wine Wander will be Saturday, July 1, featuring wines from 14 Santa Cruz Mountain wineries: Aptos Vineyard, Bargetto Winery, Big Basin Vineyards, Doon to Earth, El Vaquero Winery, Integrity Wines, Kings Mountain Vineyards, La Vida Bella Vineyard, Lester Estate Wines, Sante Arcangeli Family Wines, Silver Mountain Vineyards, Villa del Monte, Windy Oaks Estate Vineyards and Winery. Attendees can purchase their favorites at the bottle booth. Tastings will be at Aptos Village businesses on Soquel Drive, Trout Gulch Road and in the new Aptos Village, specifically Betty Burgers, Cali Coastal Boutique, Cantine Winepub, Caroline’s Non-Profit Thrift Shop, Magnolia Fine Gifts & Apothecary, New Leaf Community Markets, and Sarah’s European Skin Care. Wine wanderers will be encouraged to walk business-tobusiness.

The Aptos Wine Wander is sponsored by New Leaf Community Markets.

Tickets, which include a commemorative glass and all tasting, are $45 before June 15 / $50* after June 15 at https:// winesofthesantacruzmountains.com/events/2023aptosww.

SAN BENITO ARTS COUNCIL OPENING

There is an opening on the San Benito County Arts Council’s Board, and Aromas residents want to keep someone from Aromas on it.

The term of the current Aromas representative Rachel Wohlander is soon up and she’s actively seeking someone to fill her position.

Meetings are monthly. If you are interested, contact Jennifer Laine at info@sanbenitoarts.org

NEW IN SANTA CRUZ: ELECTRIC BEACH SHUTTLE

The City of Santa Cruz is introducing a new electric shuttle service for summer 2023.

The Santa Cruzer Beach & Downtown Shuttle will operate weekends and holidays between Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day including 4th of July from noon to 8 p.m., taking riders from downtown Santa Cruz to the beach area for $1 per ride.

Free ride coupons are available from sponsors Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Humble Sea Brewery.

Pickup spots are:

• Del Mar Theatre, 1124 Pacific Ave #4415

• Locust Street Garage, 124 Locust St

The new bus was unveiled May 22 at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center, 35 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, which is the beach drop-off point.

The shuttle is partly funded by an AB2766 grant to reduce vehicle emissions from the Monterey Bay Air Quality Control District.

ART AT THE BEACH IN CAPITOLA

Enjoy an afternoon in Capitola at the Sunday Art at the Beach event this summer at Esplanade Park overlooking the Monterey Bay. Browse quality artwork including painting, photography, sculpture, jewelry, and mixed media from local artists.

The dates for 2023 are: June 25, July 30 and Aug. 13.

This family-friendly event presented by the Capitola Arts & Cultural Commission, is free and open to the public.

https://www.cityofcapitola.org/acc/page/sunday-art-beach-3

RECREATIONAL HALIBUT SEASON OPENS

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has announced the opening of the 2023 recreational Pacific halibut fishery, which remains open every day until Nov. 15 or until the quota is reached, whichever is earlier.

The 2023 Pacific halibut quota for the California subarea is 39,540 pounds — approximately the same as the 2022 quota.

CDFW’s recommended season dates were informed by a scoping process that included an online angler survey conducted earlier this year.

The open dates are not guaranteed days, and the season could be closed early if it is determined that projected catches will exceed the California quota.

Anglers can check for updated information on season dates, bag/possession limits and gear restrictions at https://wildlife.ca.gov/News/recreational-pacific-halibutfishery-set-to-open-may-1#gsc.tab=0

REDWOOD MOUNTAIN FAIRE AT ROARING CAMP

Saturday June 3 and 4, Roaring Camp, 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton

This is a weekend-long, family-friendly music festival with 20+ bands on three stages, local beer/ wine/cider, local artists, locally made food and a kids zone.

It all takes place in an open field surrounded by redwoods in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Gates open at 10:30 am. Music, 11 am-8 pm.

This is a benefit for local nonprofits. Buy tickets at the gate, $30 per day for adults. Kids 12 and under free.

$20 parking: cash only or pre-purchase online.

Green event: Bring a RMF glass or purchase onsite

More details at www.redwoodmountainfaire.com

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVES

The American Red Cross asks people to book a time to give blood now to address a recent drop in donation appointments that could lead to fewer transfusions for patients in the weeks ahead. Type O blood donors are especially needed.

Those who come to give June 1-30 will receive a $10 gift card by email to a merchant of their choice.

Ben Lomond

June 3: 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Highlands Park Senior Center/San Lorenzo Valley, 8500 Hwy 9 Capitola

June 2: 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Jade Street Community Center, 4400 Jade St. Santa Cruz

June 14: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 220 Elk St. Scotts Valley

June 9: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Four Points by Sheraton, 5030 Scotts Valley Drive

How to donate blood

To make an appointment, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.

MUSIC, MOVIES AND MORE AT THE BOARDWALK

June 15 – Aug. 11

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach, Santa Cruz, hosts free live music, free movie and free entertainment all summer.

Thursdays, 8:30-10 p.m. — Bands play on the Colonnade.

June 15 EXTRA LARGE • June 22 MAN IN BLACK • June 29

EXTRA LARGE • July 6 FAST TIMES • July 13 SANTA CRUDA

• July 20 TSUNAMI BAND • July 27 THE DEADLIES • Aug. 3

4TO PRES-TIGIO • Aug. 10 PACIFIC ROOTS

Fridays, 9 p.m. — Movies will screen on the beach in front of the Colonnade.

June 16 THE LOST BOYS • June 23 MAMMA MIA! • June 30 SPACE

JAM • July 7 LABYRINTH July 14 SELENA • July 21 MINIONS: THE RISE of GRU+ July 28 TOP GUN: MAVERICK • Aug. 4 SHREK • Aug. 11 THE NEVERENDING STORY

Daily Entertainment: June 19 – Aug. 11 from Noon-6 p.m.

Shows on the Colonnade stage in front of the Pirate Ship at 12 p.m. • 2 p.m. • 4 p.m. • 6 p.m.

LIBRARY SUMMER READING PROGRAM KICKS OFF

The annual Summer Reading Program runs June through July at the Santa Cruz Public Libraries, and is all about supporting summer learning through reading, programs, and events.

Community members are encouraged to sign up and track how much they read this summer. There are prizes and programs for all ages.

The theme this year is: Find your Voice!

Our voices have power. We use our voices to share stories, express ourselves, and spark change. Our voices include not only the sounds we make, but the words we write, the art we create, the movements we perform, and the actions we take each day to impact our world.

The Library encourages the community to read for fun, to learn a new skill, to make a new friend. Library programs and events are free and focused on maintaining and improving reading skills, exploring inside and out, and building up our community.

Download the Summer Reading Program Guide at www. SantaCruzPL.org/SRP

RODGERS HOUSE TOUR GUIDES NEEDED

Would you enjoy being in a lovely house built in 1870? You can help guide people on tours though the Rodgers House during the Santa Cruz County Fair, from Sept. 13-17, if you’d like!

Just come to the informational meeting at the Rodgers House on the fairgrounds on Wednesday, July 19, at 10:30 a.m., to find out about it.

The fairgrounds are at 2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville.

Hope to see you there!

VENDORS WANTED

Vendors wanted for Cabrillo Lions annual Midsummer Market Aug, 12 in Aptos Village Park. Donations for space rent are $35 for various local charity projects.

Vendors of all types welcome. Contact 831-688-3356 or carousel21@hotmail.com.

FREE FAMILY MOVIE NIGHTS

Santa Cruz County Parks presents free family-friendly movie nights under the stars this summer and fall. Family Movie Nights is a series of free outdoor movie events. Movies begin at dusk. Low back chairs, blankets and jackets recommended. No alcohol, please. Come early and bring a picnic to enjoy! The dates:

June 23: Encanto @ Mesa Village Park, 790 Green Valley Rd., Watsonville

July 14: Jurassic Park @ Highlands Park, 8500 Highway 9, Ben Lomond

Aug. 11: Lego Batman Movie @ Anna Jean Cummings Park, 461 Old San Jose Rd., Soquel

FREE TAI CHI CLASSES

Santa Cruz County Parks has won a grant from the National Recreation and Park Association to train staff to teach tai chi for arthitis.

The class will be taught by Ruby Perez. For dates and more details, email recreation@scparks.com.

COUNTY FAIR BOARD MEETINGS

1:30 p.m., Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 E. Lake Ave., Watsonville

Here are the dates of the remaining County Fair Board meeting dates in 2023. Each meeting takes place on a Tuesday: June 27, July 25, Aug. 22, Oct. 24, and Dec. 5, all at the fairgrounds.

Meetings also take place on Zoom. For agendas, see santacruzcountyfair.com.

/ Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

John Laird

ONGOING EVENTS

Mondays BRIDGE CLUB

10 a.m.-Noon, Capitola Branch Library, 2005 Wharf Road

The Capitola Branch Library will host Bridge Club sessions on Mondays (except holidays).

Everyone is welcomed from beginners to social players. Make new friends and sharpen your mind.

Bridge Club is a partnership between Santa Cruz County Parks and Santa Cruz Public Libraries. Register at scparks.com or in-person the day of the event.

Tuesdays

EL MERCADO FARMER’S MARKET

2 - 6 p.m., Ramsay Park, 1301 Main Street, Watsonville Community Health Trust of Pajaro Valley–El Mercado hosts a farmer’s market weekly at Ramsay Park.

The goal is to decrease food insecurity and improve access to health promoting resources for community families.

Tuesdays through Aug. 29

LOW INTENSITY CONDITIONING & STRETCHING

9:15-10:15 a.m., Anna Jean Cummings Park, 461 Soquel San Jose Rd, Soquel

Santa Cruz County Parks offers a new fitness class for active adults, low-intensity anaerobic conditioning & stretching Tuesdays at Anna Jean Cummings Park. Walk-ins are welcome. Register at scparks.com. Information: 454-7941.

Wednesdays thru Aug. 30

CAPITOLA TWIIGHT CONCERTS

6 p.m., Esplanade Bandstand, Capitola Village

The Capitola Twiight Concerts are hosted on Wednesday evenings during the summer months.

All concerts take place at the Esplanade bandstand. These free events are made possible by sponsors.

June 14 – Jive Machine • June 21 – Dirty Cello •

June 28 – Tsunami • July 5 – The Alex Lucero Band

• July 12 – Ribsys Nickels • July 19 – The Joint Chiefs • July 26 – Pacific Roots • August 2 – Delta Wires • August 9 – Extra Large • August 16 – Billy Martini Show • August 23 – Everyday People • August 30 – Digbeats

Fridays thru Sept. 29

MIDTOWN SUMMER BLOCK PARTY IS BACK!

5 to 8:30ish p.m., 1111 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz

Celebrate the vibrancy of Midtown at the Summer Block Party, happening every Friday! Food – Artists – Live Music – Vendors

The free events will feature the talents of 30+ local bands, local eats, local artists and vendors. Midtown Fridays starts June 2 and runs through to Sept. 29. Live music brought to you by Off The Lip Radio Show.

Bands:

June 2: Broken English w/opener Soquel High Jazz

Band

June 9: The Neverland Band w/opener Shoreline Middle School “Summer Band”

June 16: James Durbin & The Lost Boys w/opener

Coffee Zombie Collective

June 23: Ribsys Nickel w/opener Joshua Cremer

June 30: Afrobeats Nite Santa Cruz w/opener Carolyn

Sills Duo

July 7: Ancestree w/opener Hijinx

July 14: The Rayburn Brothers

July 21: Dirty Cello

July 28: Alex Lucero Band w/opener Asher Stern

POETRY AFTERNOON

Sunday June 4

1-4 p.m., Brommer Street County Park, 1451 30th Ave., Santa Cruz County Park Friends and Santa Cruz County Park will offer a free afternoon of poetry at Brommer Street Park.

Bring a picnic to enjoy during the poetry reading for all ages from 1-2 p.m. with local poets Victoria Bañales, Billy Butler, and Farnaz Fatemi

After, from 2-4 p.m., youth ages 10 to 18 are invited to participate in free, fun poetry-writing activities. Bañales teaches English at Cabrillo College and lives in Watsonville. Butler is a writer and educator from Northern California. Fatemi is serving a two-year term as Santa Cruz County Poet Laureate.

Top Photo (from left): Farnaz Fatemi, Billy Butler and Victoria Bañales

Aug. 4: The Dylan Rose Band w/opener Maddie & Jackie

Aug. 11: Santa Cruda w/opener Yaya’s Kitchen

Aug. 18: Mak Nova

Aug. 25: Cowboy’s After Dark w/opener Corrina & Rick

Sept. 1: The Joint Chiefs

Sept. 8: Locomotive Breath

Sept. 15: Funkranomicon

Sept. 22: AC Myles

Sept. 29: The Expendables

Details: https://www.eventsantacruz.com/event/midtownfridays-summer-block-party-2023/

DATED EVENTS

Thursday June 1

FOOT CLINIC WITH DOMINI ANNE

6-7:30 p.m., Pilgrim’s Way, Dolores Street, between Fifth and Sixth avenues, Carmel

The Pilgrim’s Way Community Bookstore & Secret Garden will host “We Will, We Will, Walk You,” a 90-minute foot clinic featuring movement expert Domini Anne. This clinic provides tools to reduce foot pain, including sources such as bunions, plantar fasciitis, and flat feet, and focuses on holistic activation of the sole of the foot.

Domini Anne will guide attendees through simple exercises that enhance awareness and alignment, and restore your connection with the earth. By restoring your connection with the earth, you will feel more grounded and balanced, which will help improve your overall well-being.

Spaces are limited for in-person participants, so register ASAP. Price is $35 for in-person class or $25 for the recorded class. Call (831)624-4955 or email: cynthia-pilgrimsway@gmail.com

Friday June 2

‘SENIOR PROM’ NIGHT

5-7 p.m. Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Rd. Santa Cruz County Parks hosts “Senior Prom Night” for active adults age 50+ at Aptos Village Park. Enjoy the evening with friends, music, snacks and drinks. A corsage and/or boutonniere will be provided to all guests.

Price: $7 signup online or $10 at the door.

Saturday June 3

BUILDING FOR GENERATIONS WALK

10 a.m., Natural Bridges parking lot, 2531 W Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz Bouilding for Generations announces the 2023 Fundraising Walk at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 3 at Natural Bridges parking lot, 2531 W Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, to the lighthouse. Lunch and raffle ticket included with $30 donation.

The special project for 2023 is to raise the money to put in the doors and windows at what will be the first adult youth living facility in Arusha, Tanzania. Currently supporters have raised $1,500 toward a matching grant of $7,500.

You can participate by walking and collecting donations from others or donating directly to help fund our initiatives. Your generous donations over the holidays have made it possible to put on the roof! Sandwich or vegetarian option at Steamers across from Lighthouse included with $30 donation plus 1 free raffle ticket.

Sunday June 4

FIREWISE COMMUNITY EDUCATION

1:30-4:30 p.m., Temple Beth El Grounds, 3055 Porter Gulch Road, Aptos

FireWise neighborhoods — Viewpoint, Cathedral-Redwood, North Trout Gulch-Fern Flat, and Porter Gulch — have organized a FireWise community education event outside at Temple Beth El.

Program begins at 2 p.m. Topics are:

• Preparing for 1st Responders

• Home Hardening Concepts

• Situational Awareness

• Resource Conservation District

• Home and Fire Insurance

• Email questions to nlyellin@comcast.net.

Monday June 5

FORUM ON WHY POLICY MATTERS

6:30 p.m., Online Forum

WILDR announce a forum focusing on Why Policy Matters: the power of public service

This forum is for anyone who wants to see and support more women and diverse representatives in elected, appointed, or community service to

impact policy such as housing, climate action, and education.

Register at: https://bit.ly/WILDR060523

A list of speakers will be out soon. For more info, visit wildrsantacruz.com.

Tuesday June 6

PUBLIC DEFENDER HEATHER ROGERS TO SPEAK

6 p.m., Online Meeting

Santa Cruz County Public Defender Heather Rogers will be the guest speaker for the Democratic Club of North Santa Cruz County online gathering.

Rogers will talk about the justice system and issues related to homelessness, including cycles of recidivism, the right to fair treatment, and mental health issues exacerbated by homelessness. Members of the public are welcome to attend.

Visit www.svslvdemocrats.org for the zoom meeting link.

Social time starts at 6 p.m. and the meeting begins at 6:30 p.m.

Thursday June 8 thru Sunday June 11

44TH ANNUAL MUSICAL ‘RAMAYANA!’

7 p.m. (June 8/9) • 2 p.m. (June 10/11), Mexican Heritage Theater, 1700 Alum Rock Ave, San Jose Ramayana! — the 44th Mount Madonna School musical theater production — returns to entertain audiences of all ages Mexican Heritage Theater. The production features a cast of students ranging from preschool to high school, and includes traditional and contemporary music and features an adult choir and musicians, with more than a dozen original, standout songs. This version of the show features choreographed fight scenes, monkeys and monsters, comedy, deep introspection by many characters, including King Ravana (in his 10-headed costume). Within the action are rousing choreographed dances from Bharatanatyam to Hip Hop, as well as plenty of stage combat and spectacle. The costumes, demon and monkey masks, elaborate sets, props, and monster rigs were created by Baba Hari Dass, as well as artisans associated with both the center and the school. Every item in the show is a work of handmade art. All seats are reserved; tickets available at mountmadonnaschool.org/ramayana.

Saturday June 10

JAPANESE CULTURAL FAIR

11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Outside Akido Santa Cruz, 103 Emmett St., Santa Cruz

This event with Japanese culture, crafts, music and food, will take place at 103 Emmett St. in Santa Cruz. There will be chanting, martial arts, storytelling, dance and taiko. The kimono workshop will be at 3 p.m. Due to Covid concerns, Akido Santa Cruz will not open its studio this year.

LWV ANNUAL MEETING

9:30 am – Noon, Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Dr., Aptos

The League of Women Voters Santa Cruz County will have its annual meeting at Seascape Golf Club. Guest speaker Assembly member Gail Pellerin will give her perspective on what is happening with legislation in the California Assembly.

Check-in will begin at 9:30 a.m. with The Classic Breakfast buffet from 10:00-10:30 a.m., fol-lowed by business meeting and guest speaker.

Please pay in advance $30 via PayPal at https:// my.lwv.org/california/santa-cruz-county/event/annualmeeting-lwvscc

If you wish to attend, contact Barbara Lewis at Bobbi44@ gmail.com. She will send you a link to join.

Preparing for Fire Season

The last few years have been marked by weather extremes — from extreme drought to extreme flooding our area has experienced the worst of a changing climate.

With this year’s rains (including rains from just a few weeks ago) it might be hard to think about fire season.

But as we move into summer, now is the time to take some steps to help protect your homes and businesses from fire risk. What steps can you take to mitigate risk?

There are some things that you can do to help protect your home or business from a wildfire or a structure fire. Local and state fire agencies have put together some recommendations on how to get started.

One of the first things is to ensure that you have a home emergency plan (and evacuation plan) and practice it with your family. All homes should have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and at least one ABC-rated fire extinguisher in your home.

Ensuring the Fire Department can respond quickly also means having visible address numbers on the outside of your home and business (and if you have a sidewalk — along the curb).

All homes should be kept clear of combustible debris such as cardboard boxes, rags, paper products, flammable liquids

and fireplaces and wood stoves should be maintained and cleaned and inspected annually.

The topography of Santa Cruz County, and location of homes within the rural areas, means that it’s imperative to create a defensible space around your home.

Defensible space is the buffer you create between your home or business and the vegetation that surrounds them to prevent these structures from catching fire.

The defensible space can reduce risk to both your home (from fire directly or radiant heat associated with fire) as well as to firefighters using the space to defend your property.

How do you create a defensible space?

California State law requires that you maintain 100 feet of defensible space around your home and other buildings on your property.

This is a minimum recommended amount and should be increased if your home is on a steep slope.

You can create a defensible space by ensuring that trees are the furthest from your home and that elements that are less likely to burn (or burn at lower temperatures) such as small plants/ beddings/high water content plants etc. are closer to the home.

For the first 30 feet from all buildings, decks and structures you should:

• Remove or mow all dead plants, grass, or weeds.

• Create paved or gravel driveways, walkways, patios as firebreaks.

• Remove dead or dry leaves and needles from yard, roof, and gutters.

• Trim trees regularly and maintain a minimum of 10’ between canopies.

• Remove branches that overhang your roof and any dead branches close to chimney.

• Remove flammable items near any structure.

By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District

For the next 70+ feet from your home (extending to at least 100 feet from your home) you should:

• Cut or mow annual grass down to a maximum height of 4”.

• Maintain 10 ft clearance around woodpiles.

• Thin trees and shrubs and leave big gaps between plants.

• Remove dead or dry leaves, needles, twigs, bark, cones, and branches from ground.

How can you get more information?

The Central Fire Protection District website — https://www.centralfiresc. org — contains preparedness information on defensible space, general fire prevention and a smoke alarm program

alarms for the District’s senior citizens and low income residents (click on the “education and preparedness” tab on their website).

Fire Safe Santa Cruz County also maintains a comprehensive site with downloadable fact sheets and videos on how to prepare your home or business https://www.firesafesantacruz.org/ (click on the “education” tab on their website).

Lastly, the County’s OR3 website has a resources link with a lot of valuable information: https://www.co.santa-cruz.ca.us/ OR3.aspx (click on the “plan and prepare” tab). n

•••

As always, I appreciate any feedback you may have on this (or any other County issue). I’m maintaining regular updates on social media at www.facebook.com/supervisorfriend

Wildfire! Kameika & Joey Prepare, by Misty Knightly, who was living on a two-lane road in the Santa Cruz Mountains during the 2020 wildfire season and witnessed the devastating loss. The 70-page book is $35 at mistyknightly.com. A part of net profits will be donated to the Santa Clara County FireSafe Council. The book is illustrated by Ira Baykovska

SCCAS Featured Pet

“Pure Water Update” from page 22

Throughout 2023, the District will be constructing site improvements at these recharge well locations. We anticipate the project up and running in Fall 2024.

We are very fortunate and grateful for the financial investment and continued support that State and Federal agencies have provided for the project.

Helpful Links: Pure Water Soquel Overview : purewatersoquel.com

Construction Updates: soquelcreekwater. org/PWSConstruction

Sweet Koa Looking For New Home

Our Pet of the Week is a sweet dog named Koa! This very adorable 4-yearold black Chinese Sharpei mix was an owner surrender when his owner could no longer care for him.

At first Koa was a little scared at the Shelter but has really opened up after working with staff and volunteers- his shining personality has come out and charmed everyone! He has gone to events with volunteers and not only loves riding in the car but is great with people out in the world.

At the Shelter he has made several dog friends and would probably do well in a home with another dog provided they meet prior to adoption. This pup has a little history with resource guarding around other animals and will have to have separate mealtimes with other dogs and caution with high value items.

In his previous home he was described as mellow and lived with other dogs (large and small), kids under 12, men, women, and seniors- and has done well with all! Koa loves to roll in the grass and play fetch- especially with tennis balls!

This smart cookie knows “sit”, “down” and “shake”. He could continue his learning and skills with positive reinforcement training which also helps with bonding and daily mental stimulation! This dog is a real treat and is just waiting for the perfect forever home.

Come by the Shelter and meet our superstar dog! n

•••

Right now 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. The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is located at 1001 Rodriguez St and is open every day from 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

•••

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. • 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

“Calendar” from page 29

Saturday June 10

Sunday June 11

CAPITOLA ROD & CUSTOM CLASSIC CAR SHOW

Parade begins Saturday Morning, 8:30 a.m. at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

The 16th Annual Capitola Rod and Custom Classic Car Show is hosted by the Capitola Public Safety & Community Service Foundation.

Watch these classic beauties cruise the coastline Saturday morning from the Boardwalk to Capitola.

Enjoy a weekend filled with awesome cars, great music, charming shops, restaurants for every taste, and family fun at the beach. Info: www.capitolafoundation.com/car-show or email info@ capitolafoundation.com

Wednesday June 14

RESTAURANT WALK FUNDRAISER

5:30 to 8:30 p.m., The Santa Cruz Restaurant Walk is coming up on Wednesday.

Fifteen downtown Santa Cruz restaurants will provide samples of their cuisine to everyone presenting a Passport.

Passports are at Eventbrite.com at Santa Cruz Restaurant Walk for $40. This event sold out last year.

The Capitola Coast Lions Club sponsors this event as a fundraiser for Common Roots Farm, with pro-grams for youth and young adults of all abilities. Projects include the Garden Classroom and the Seed to Salad Garden. See: www.commonrootsfarm.org.

Recharge Well Construction

Treatment

Construction

The Capitola Coast Lions Club also supports: Baseball for All Abilities Lions Club Allstars Team, Lions International Peace Poster Contest for Youth, California Lions Student Speakers Contest, Hunger Initiatives and Holiday Toy Drive, and the Farm to Table Winemaker’s Dinner at Common Roots Farm.

Saturday June 17

SANTA CRUZ JUNETEENTH

Noon-5 p.m., Laurel Park (behind the London Nelson Center), 301 Center St., Santa Cruz

On June 19th, 1865, Union soldiers led by Major General Gordon Granger landed in Galveston, Texas with the news that the Civil War had ended and Blacks were now free.

Now, 155 years later, people celebrate this remarkable event at Juneteenth celebrations across the country. A longheld tradition among African-Americans, Juneteenth celebrates culture and is a special day for anyone who believes in freedom and equality for all people.

Come June 17 to Laurel Park behind the London Nelson Center, 301 Center St., Santa Cruz for music, poetry, dance, delicious soul food, arts & crafts, basketball skills contest, and the annual sack race! Celebrating 30 years!

This year’s theme is art. There will be an open mic, art gallery and silent auction. Information: https://www.santacruzjuneteenth.com n