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Open Studios: First 3 Weekends in October
Open Studios Art Tour, a chance to visit 322 artists and support local art with a purchase, returns the first three weekends in October — for the 37th year. Full Story page 14
Stephen Gray Voted Watsonville Hospital CEO Full Story page 12
Aptos Celebrates Community Awards
My Ukrainian Daughter
Nancy Cooper Shares Tragedy and Triumph of Sister City Family By Jondi Gumz After Russian attacked Ukraine in 2022, Santa Cruz County resident Nancy Cooper texted her Ukrainian daughter, Sveta, in Kyiv. The attack up-ended Sveta’s life.
But she found love, married, and last year, gave birth to Pasha, her baby boy who will celebrate his first birthday in November. ... continues on page 4
On Friday, Nov. 3, the Aptos Chamber of Commerce will celebrate the people, organizations and businesses that make Aptos special at the Aptos Chamber Annual Awards Dinner and Auction. Full Story page 6
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No. 19
Volume 32
15
21
24
Table of Contents
9
Cover My Ukrainian Daughter: Nancy Cooper Shares Tragedy and Triumph of Sister City Family, By Jondi Gumz 6 9 11 12 14 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 26
Community News Aptos Celebrates Community Awards: Annual Awards Dinner to Take Place Nov. 3 • Apple Pie Baking Contest Winners Encouraging Compassion, Empathy and Kindness: Mount Madonna School Hosts Peace Day Commemoration Search for Youth Poet Laureate Underway Stephen Gray Voted Watsonville Hospital CEO: Leader from Sutter Health to Start Nov. 1 Open Studios: First 3 Weekends in October: Free Art Tour Showcasing 322 artists in Santa Cruz County, By Jondi Gumz PVUSD News and Notes Tips to Plan Your Art Tour Monterey Airport Gets $25 Million • Jobs in Santa Cruz County Actors’ Theatre: Full Season Announced Halloween Fundraiser Pajaro Valley Health Fair Capitola Plein Air Returns: One Magic Week of Painting Outdoors from Oct. 30 to Nov. 5, By Laurie Hill Teen Artes Program Mural Celebration • Annual Harvest Festival at Staff of Life • Capitola Village Halloween Parade
California News AB28 — Governor Signs 11% Gun Tax, By Jondi Gumz • Governor Signs SB 14: Sex Trafficking of Minors a Strike, By Jondi Gumz 10 AB 957: Bill to Protect TGI Youth Vetoed, By Jondi Gumz 23 State Bill AB 1286 Targets Prescription Errors at Drugstore Chains, By Jondi Gumz 27 Fentanyl, 485,000 Fake Oxycodone Pills, Seized in Fresno County 8
Letters to the Editor 10 Soquel Creek Water District Salaries • Storage is Not Affordable Local Sports 19 Aptos JV Boys Water Polo Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – Forgiveness, Forgetting & Thanksgiving in the Season of Autumn, By Risa D’Angeles Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29 Featured Columnists 15 Education or Wisdom?, By Joyce and Barry Vissell 24 Airlines Hide Fees and Congress Wants to Help Them, By Christopher Elliott 25 Water Harvest Festival: A Celebration of Water and Community, By Rebecca Gold Rubin 30 Artificial Intelligence Use Policy for County Employees, By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 31 – An Excitable, Active Friend
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COVER STORY Patrice Edwards Jondi Gumz
publisher editor
contributing writers Jondi Gumz, Laurie Hill, Risa D’Angeles, Joyce and Barry Vissell, Christopher Elliott, Rebecca Gold Rubin, Zach Friend
Michael Oppenheimer Michael Oppenheimer
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Times Publishing Group, Inc. 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 The Times Publishing Group, Inc., publishers of the Aptos Times, a bi-monthly publication, the Capitola Soquel Times and Scotts Valley Times, each printed monthly, Coastal Weddings Magazine, Coastal Home and Garden Magazine, Aptos’ Fourth of July Parade Official Program Guide and Capitola’s Summer Festivals Official Program Guide, is owned by Patrice Edwards. Entire contents ©2023. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission
“Nancy & Sveta” from page 1 Nancy, a Pajaro Valley teacher for 32 years, had visited Alushta, a resort beach town of 29,000 in Crimea,as a chaperone with the Pacific Collegiate School band as part of the Santa Cruz Sister Cities initiative in 2002 when Alushta was part of Ukraine. Sveta, a talented trumpet player with the Alushta Music School, stayed at Nancy’s house when the school arranged a weeklong visits to Santa Cruz in 2005 and 2008.. The Alushta musicians gave concerts at Rio Del Mar Elementary School in Aptos, where Nancy worked, and Peace United Church in Santa Cruz. During the first visit, Sveta met John Thomas, owner of the Thomas Musical Instruments and founder-conductor in 1994 of the Santa Cruz City Band, where Nancy played oboe, and bought a new trumpet to replace her old one. On a later visit to Alushta, Thomas met a conservatory-trained pianist, Marina, who still has a brother and nieces in Ukraine. They fell in love and married and today, live in Ben Lomond. Sveta moved from Alushta to Kyiv to take a job with the renowned all-female band, Freedom- Jazz. (Listen to their music on YouTube.com) Her brother joined the military. When Russia attacked, her brother had to choose: Stay Ukrainian, or return to Alushta, which since 2014 had been taken over by Russia. He returned to Alushta, where Sveta ’s parents still live. To tell Sveta ’s story, with her permission, I am sharing the texts that have gone back and forth from the U.S. to Kyiv. Nancy’s texts are in bold. •••
PHONE: (831) 688-7549 FAX: (831) 688-7551 GENERAL E-MAIL: info@cyber-times.com Patrice Edwards: patrice@cyber-times.com Publisher’s Assistant: assistant@cyber-times.com Editor: info@cyber-times.com Calendar Listings: www.tpgonlinedaily.com Graphics Department: graphics@cyber-times.com Billing Inquiries: cathe@cyber-times.com Classified Sales: sales@cyber-times.com Production: production@cyber-times.com CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE AT: www.tpgonlinedaily.com mission statement We at the Times Publishing Group, Inc. are dedicated to providing a voice for the individuals and organizations in our community while highlighting the outstanding accomplishments of our local businesses. We seek to promote healthy family values through our coverage of youth activities, school news, senior events, community groups and entertainment 4 / October 1st 2023 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
Feb. 22, 2022: How are you doing? I hope you are doing OK. We are thinking of you and sending love. Be safe! Feb. 23, 2022: Hello, we are afraid and don’t understand what happed, so now we just waiting any information…thank you for wishes, everything will be ok)) Keep me informed on how you are doing. Have you been able to work during COVID? We worked a lot, everything was ok, and this night… terrible, I hope finished very soon, I will write you)) Stay safe. I am situated near Kyiv, in small town, now most terrible is near me, my boyfriend with me, we hope this situation will be finished very soon, we are staying home and waiting news Keep talking to me. Love you! Thanks! Feb. 27, 2022: How are things today? Terrible day, very terrible, we are ok, sit all day in a very small room without windows all day I’m so sorry. I think you are doing the right thing trying to stay safe. I wish I could help you. Sending lots of love. Thank you (heart) Feb. 27, 2022: If you can get to Poland and want to come here, we will sponsor the two of you. Here is a link to request acceptance into the US. Here is the application to file https://uscis.gov/ humanitarian/refugees-and-asylumasylum. I don’t know if you want to do this or if you can but we will help you if you want us to. Feb. 27, 2022: Thanks, but we haven’t a car, our roads are destroyed, this place is our home, we will stay)) thank you (heart) Feb. 27, 2022: That’s what I thought but I wanted to offer in case you wanted to leave. I hope things have settled down some. Heart heart. Thumbs up sign. March 2, 2022: How are you doing?
Sveta (from right), Nancy, Ken, Steven and Casey at the Santa Cruz Wharf in 2008. Not good. If someone from western Ukraine can pick you up, would you like to go to another part of Ukraine? My friend knows someone that could possibly get you. It impossible, most safe place is our house, all roads dangerous. Ok. Do you have food? All stores closed, we have many food at home. Happy to hear that. Know that we are always thinking of you. Lots of love. March 3, 2022: How are things today? Photo of destruction. It’s place near me. I feel sad and angry March 3, 2022: I wish I could help. We are all sad and angry, too. I’m so glad you have internet! At least we know you are OK! And I am so glad) How are things today? Normally) What is your boyfriend’s name? What does he do? How long have you been together? Picture? His name is Dima, he is not musician, we are 2 years together and wanted married It will happen. Very good looking! Congratulations! Will he have to join the forces?
March 4, 2022: What is happening today? March 5, 2022: Are you still online? March 9, 2022: Praying that you are OK. Please contact me as soon as you can. 5 hearts March 10, 2022: Hello, it was terrible, we leave our home and now sit in underground and to leave Kiev and go to my friend Ira in Rovno, we are ok)) March 10, 2022: I am so glad. Is there a passage out? The offer is still open if you need to come here. Thanks, thanks, thanks, people is come out, now in a train, a lot of my neighbors, everything ok)) relatives of Dima waiting us)) Wonderful. Keep me informed. I worry a lot. March 11, 2022: Did you make it out of Kiev? March 12, 2022: Yes we are now in safe, quite, it’s so cool) Where are you? I am so happy. Are you with Dima’s relatives? Do you have food? Did you save your trumpet? We are with relatives of Dima trumpet in Kiev, I hope it’s ok)) I only took documents and nothing more (( Here are a lot of food) She attaches a video Fantastic. The video shows terrible things. I hope soon you will be able
Curves (PU) aptoscurves@gmail.com • www.facebook.com/CurvesAptos
Rowan (from left), Casey and Sveta dress for Halloween in 2005.
COVER STORY to go back and be safe. So happy you are safe now. March 13, 2022: What city are you in? Is it close to a border? He’s very close to Poland now. It’s not close to Poland. Hmelnizk, a small city not near any borders Safer I hope. Safer) Heart March 14, 2022: How are you today? We are headed back home after camping this weekend. I have to go to the doctor to check on my broken arm that I broke while walking our new dog. Thinking of you always! Heart heart You are so cool, you are walking all year, a lot of beautiful fotos, it’s amazing)) hope your arm is ok, we are setting in new hone and waiting good news) John Thomas says hello. He is so glad that you are OK and that you have been in touch with me. Your dad has been so worried. Say hello to Jon) my father is worried, tired… it’s so hard when your daughter is not safe Yes it is. I claim you as my daughter too. March 14, 2022: A big hi and hugs right back to her. Thank you. From John March 17, 2022: Checking in! Luckily I don’t need surgery for my arm, just physical therapy, All is good. Hugs to everyone there. It is very good, I am so happy I’m so glad. I’ll keep checking in
every couple days. Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Happy St. Patrik’s day March 23, 2022: How are you doing? Has the stuff in Kiev affected you very much? We’re all doing fine here March 24, 2022: Hello, usually we are happy that everything is over, but sometimes we want to cry that our whole life has changed and will never be the same, how are you? We are all praying that Putin will give up soon and you can begin to build back Ukraine. Steven’s birthday is on Monday. We will celebrate with a nice dinner. Sending lots of love It is so cool, how are Steven doing? I will wait for foto of dinner)) March 25, 2022: Texts photo. This is Casey’s husband Erich, Casey, Ken, me, Steven and my brother Doug. I will send one from Steven’s dinner if he let me take one. He doesn’t like pictures. He is doing well and looking for a new job. I hope Steven will find a new job)) you are so happy I like this foto so much March 28, 2022: Tell please Steven my best wishes and Happy Birthday, I hope he will get a new job from his dreams)) He says thank you! I forgot to take a picture. He wanted barbecue. It was delicious! It is ok)) barbecue…wonderful April 12, 2022: Checking in. How are you doing? April 13, 2022: Hello, we are ok))
little secret-I am pregnant, and I have very strong toxicosis (if you understand this word) so now I am sleeping all days It is a secret Oh how exciting! When is the baby due? I had toxemia with Casey but only at the very end of the pregnancy. Can I tell Casey that you are pregnant? Do your parents know? Yes you can say Casey)) my parents know it, they are happy, now we are 9 weeks, and I wait for 13 weeks and hope toxemia will finished)) very hope Congratulations! I’m so happy for you and hope you will feel better soon. Thanks for congratulations Have you been able t get anything from Kiev or are you staying away still? I am stay away, we want to return to Kiev, maybe in Moscow, now it is not safe in Kiev Others have said that it was better and I thought maybe you would pick up some of your things but not move back. Stay safe! Don’t go back until you feel safe there. Thumbs up sign April 18, 2022: I know your birthday is somewhere around now. I have lost the date. Happy birthday, probably late! April 21. 2022: My birthday is 25 of June)) , I am normally but it so hard, I am so tired, every day is nausea “Nancy & Sveta” page 7
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Aptos Celebrates Community Awards
Annual Awards Dinner to Take Place Nov. 3
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n Friday, Nov. 3, the Aptos Chamber of Commerce will celebrate the people, organizations and businesses that make Aptos special at the Aptos Chamber Annual Awards Dinner and Auction. This year’s winners are: • Woman of the Year: Susan True, executive director of Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, for her leadership and generosity in supporting our community. • Man of the Year: Kevin Newhouse, for his outreach and support of the county’s history. • Business of the Year: Seascape Golf Club, for the upgrading of this 97-year-old flagship and
Aptos Chamber Annual Awards Dinner and Auction
Seascape Beach Resort, One Seascape Resort Drive, Aptos Friday, November 3rd, 2023 • 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $100 until October 9th and $125 October 10th until sold out! Reservations: (831) 688-1467, or aptoschamber.com.
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assistance with fundraisers for the community. • Organization of the Year: Aptos Sports Foundation, for their rich history of supporting Aptos schools. • Outstanding Achievement Award: Erik’s DeliCafé, celebrating 50 years! • Community Hero Award: Santa Cruz County Community Development & Infrastructure Department and First Responders, (CHP, Santa Cruz Sheriff’s Office & Central Fire District), for their response to the Storms of 2022/2023. The dinner takes place at Seascape Beach Resort at 1 Seascape Resort Drive. n ••• Tickets are $100 until Oct. 9 and $125 Oct. 10 until sold out. Reservations at (831) 688-1467, or www.aptoschamber.com. Dinner starts at 5:30 p.m.
Apple Pie Baking Contest Winners
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n Sept. 13, South County bakers Kegebein, community leader & volunteer swept the masters division in the — John Skinner, general manager, ShadSanta Cruz County Farm Bureau’s owbrook Restaurant — Jessica Ridgeway, 46th Annual Apple Pie Baking Contest at executive director, Live Earth Farm Disthe Santa Cruz County Fair but Rowena covery Program — Suzanne Suwanda, Bacher of Scotts Valley took the overall songwriter/musician, Wildcat Mountain prize, winning Best of Show. Ramblers. n Nearly 40 bakers entered. Here are the winners by division: Masters: 1st, Cherice Titus, Aptos; 2nd Julie Titus, Aptos; 3rd, Stephanie Hedgpeth-Lopez Adult: 1st, Rowena Bacher, Scotts Valley; 2nd, Jennifer Alberti, Santa Cruz; 3rd Laura Speigel, Watsonville. Youth: 1st, Keara McNutt, Watsonville; 2nd, Jordan Multzer, Watsonville; 3rd, Claire Keithly, La Selva Beach. The contest judges are different Rowena Bacher, Best of Show apple pie winner, with judges David Kegebein, Suzanne Suwanda, Laura Rider, every year. This year, they were: David contest chair, Jessica Ridgeway and John Skinner.
COVER STORY “Nancy & Sveta” from page 5 Hopefully that part will be over soon and you will have more energy. It’s all worth it when you get to hold that beautiful baby. I don’t know why I thought your birthday was in April. It is the month after Casey’s, not the month before. Hers is May 2. I hope it will finish soon) Me too! May 2, 2022: Congratulation with Casey’s birthday)) now I understand how it’s difficult to create a child)) happiness for all of your family Hope you are feeling better now. Casey went to Disneyland today. I’m sure she had a lot of fun. Two of my nieces are pregnant now too. They are due in September and October. May 3, 2022: Disneyland is amazing, so good idea to spend her birthday)) I am a little bit feeling better, sleeping a lot)) tomorrow we will go to kiev, I am so happy Are you going to stay there or just pick things up? They were bombing again there We want to stay in kiev, now it is quiet, where we are is also bombing, if situation become dangerous we will go back here Just be safe! I hope everything in Kiev is safe where you left it Thanks)) we will be happy)) May 11, 2022: How did you find everything in Kiev? Was your home ok and everything still there? Hello, our home is ok)) we are happy, and my condition has improved, everything is very good)) how are you doing) May 12, 2022: We are good. I have an orchestra concert tonight and band concert Sunday. Then we leave for our trip on Monday. Good luck)) for concert and trip Aug 19, 2022: Happy birthday Nancy)) I wish you more interesting trips, more good concerts and more and more happiness every day Thank you so much. How is my baby doing? Send tummy pics please. How are you holding up? Still in Kiev? Can I tell people yet? Aug. 20, 2022: Photos attached. We are good, I eat a lot of apples, bananas and it makes me happy, we are living in Kiev, here is quiet How are you and Casey, Steven, Ken? Aug. 20, 2022: We are all good. You look so cute. Two of my nieces are due near the same time as you are. 3 babies at once. I love it! Aug. 23, 2022: We wait a boy)) your friends also wait boys or girls? It is very interesting for me Aug. 23, 2022: How exciting. Neither of my nieces want to know the sex until the baby is born. It makes it hard to buy gifts for them! It will be a surprise! Is it ok to tell people now? What is your address? How are they buying clothes? Yes, you can tell people about me)) Address follows Thank you!
We aren’t buying clothes yet. We have to wait! I don’t want to wait. I bought a little bit clothes. We are thinking about the name, it is so interesting)) Let me know when you pick a name. Are you getting everything you need? We have almost everything, I say the name lately, it is so difficult to choose for us It’s always hard. We changed Casey’s name after she was born. We had a different name picked out. Really? I think it wait us)) Have a couple ready and see what fits him. In a quintet rehearsal at my house now. Everyone says hello When you have the next rehearsal say hello from me))] Sept. 22, 2022: How are you doing? When is the baby supposed to arrive? Do you have Amazon there? Is there a way for me to get a gift certificate to your account? I know that they deliver in Ukraine. Can you order from them? No babies here yet. Sept. 23, 2022: I’m fine, I’m a little tired, I sleep all the time and my ribs hurt a lot, husband says it’s the beauty of pregnancy, we don’t have Amazon. We still have a month to wait for a baby or more )) Attaches photo of herself and Dima, and her baby bump Did you get married? Congratulations! What do you need for the baby? Did you change your name? You look happy and beautiful! Sept. 24, 2022: Thanks for the congratulations, we got married a long time ago, we are almost ready for the appearance of Pasha in our world Sept. 27, 2022: First baby was just born. It’s another girl for my nephew. Wren Olivia is her name Sept. 28, 2022: this is so cute. I hope you are having a good trip. We are having a great time. I’m still trying to figure out how to get a useful gift to you. What do you want or need? Just clothes or other things? We have everything for our baby, a lot of things were given by friends and acquaintances, enjoy every moment of the journey, it will be the best gift for me Oct.3, 2022: The second one is a boy, 5 days apart Now we are waiting the third baby)) He will be here before you know it! Getting excited! Thumbs up sign Boy/girl. Gunnar/Wren. 2 photos attached They’re so cute. They look like twins, not just cousins. I think so too Can’t wait to see you. 1 or 2 months we must wait Yes. He’ll be a happy, healthy boy I hope. Oct. 10, 2022: Checking to make sure that you are OK. How bad was it today? Hello) we are sitting in a bomb shelter today, now we came home to eat
and soon we will go there again, a little scary Stay safe. Keep me informed 3 hearts Everything is OK)) we are in the safe place Oct. 17, 2022: How are you doing? Oct. 18, 2022: hello. I am ok, hard time has come, we’re holding on Stay safe and keep messaging so I know you’re ok. Love you! Nov 13, 2022: How are you doing? I have COVID right now but a light case. Just tired and stuffed up. Any contractions happening? It is so bad that you have covid, my husband had covid in summer, it is difficult, I hope you will be healthy very soon I wait on my baby, one or two weeks maybe (attaches meme of Donald Duck nervously tapping on a table) Nov. 14, 2022: So exciting! I can’t wait and I know you are ready! I am ready but my baby is not ready. You never know. One of our babies came 3 weeks early and is super healthy. As long as their lungs develop it is good. He will come when he’s ready. Are you staying warm? We have heard terrible stories of you not having power to get heat. I hope it will not be bad in the winter We have warm, only the electricity is turned off for 8 hours every day, we are already used to Let’s see what happens in winter, we hope for the best Hoping that it stays warm so your baby will be happy, warn and healthy Nov, 18, 2022: Pasha was born yesterday. Attaches photo of baby cradled in her arms with Dima looking on. Congratulations! He’s beautiful and you look terrific! Keep the pictures coming. Good job Mom! 5 hearts I hope everything went easily without complications Everything was ok, I tired Fantastic. Get some sleep while you can. You’ll be missing lots of sleep for a long time! He’s worth it though. Nov. 26, 2022: Are you staying warm? How is that precious little one doing? Send more picture when you can I hope you’re getting some sleep. Nov 29, 2022: It is warm)) I want to sleep every moment..and now I am sleeping)) Attaches photo of her holding the baby He is so precious! YES with a meme of a penguin nodding yes Dec. 17, 2022: Pasha is father’s child. Attaches 2 photos, one where she holds the baby and the other of Dima holding the baby looking at the camera
Awe. So cute! He looks like he’s Mama’s boy too! Dec. 19, 2022: I hope he takes something from me)) Of course he will. Love, love, love. Dec. 24, 2022: Merry Christmas Thumbs up sign Jan. 5, 2023: Merry Orthodox Christmas! Are you doing anything to celebrate? Hope all is well Jan. 7, 2023: Thank you, we don’t celebrate much, there was a festive dinner with my husband’s parents, we are a bit tired now )) Sleep while you can! Texts a photo of baby sleeping on his sleeping father’s chest He’s growing! So sweet 5kg of happiness Comfy cozy happiness! 4 hearts Feb. 18, 2023: Hello)) How are you doing? Attaches a photo of herself cuddling the baby. I and Pasha send kisses and rays of happiness for you. Two beautiful people! Kisses and love right back to you. Stay warn with yur cuddly little guy! 5 hearts
March 21, 2023: How are you name? What is his job? Has he had doing? How is that little sweetheart to serve in the military? How did you doing? What new tricks has he learned? meet each other? Do you have access to March 23, 2023: Texts a video of things for the baby? Is there any way baby on his tummy on his playmat, and 2 we can help you? … Is it Ok with you photos, one a closeup of baby smiling and for her to write your story? Aug. 25, 2022: It is ok to write but the other laying on his father’s chest and I am very busy right now, a little later will looking up at the camera. write answers. He smile every day Sept. 7, 2023: Hello, it was a terHe is so cute! What a good job you are doing! Happy boy and happy rible two weeks. My husband, Gamayunov Dmytro, he is engineer of health and safety, mama and daddy. we met on a dating site, he did not serve This is my job next 3 years)) March 24, 2023: The best job ever! in the military, his eyesight is very poor We Aug. 19, 2023: Dear Nancy, Happy have everything for baby, there is a lot of Birthday)) we wish you a lot of fun, humanitarian aid in Ukraine. My husband’s parents are living near us and help us. My healthiness and happiness Thank you so much! I need a new parents see me and Pasha on Skype. Thank you. I hope things are baby picture!!! Hope you are doing well Aug. 20, 2023: We are well, now calmer now. I’m so glad that thigs like we are having barbecue with parents of my Skype exist so you can see your parents and they can see the baby. Not the same husband. Attaches 3 photos of baby I was showing these pictures of as holding him though Sept. 8, 2023: Everything is fine Pasha to Rowan yesterday and there was a friend there who is a reporter. She with us now and I hope that everything is wants to write an article about you and fine with you. On Skype, my parents can see has some questions What is your husband’s last every stage of Pasha’s development) n ••• The next Sister Cities committee meeting is Nov. 13 at 7 p.m. Santa Cruz started a Sister Cities relationship with Alushta in 1984 and Shingu, Japan, in 1974. Teens in grades 8-10 are invited to visit Shingu during spring break 2024. Applications are due Nov. 15. Information Night is 6 p.m. Oct. 17. To learn more about Santa Cruz Sister Cities, see https:// www.cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-departments/parks-recreation/ advisory-bodies/sister-cities-committee
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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / October 1st 2023 / 7
CALIFORNIA NEWS
AB28 — Governor Signs 11% Gun Tax
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By Jondi Gumz
n Sept. 26, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 28, a landmark measure to impose an 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition sold by gun manufacturers and dealers. Gun rights advocates said if Newsom signs the bill, they would sue the state. The Gun Violence Prevention and School Safety Act cleared both the Assembly and Senate by a 2/3 supermajority vote. Authored by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D - Encino), chair of the Legislature’s Gun Violence Prevention Working Group, AB 28 is projected to generate $150 million a year. Here is how it would be spent: $75 million for violence intervention and prevention programs $50 million for initiatives to prevent school shootings, including before and after school programs $15 million for a court program to remove guns from domestic abusers $15 million for firearms investigations
Since AB 28 was introduced at the beginning of the current legislative session, the United States has experienced hundreds of mass shootings, including horrific incidents in Monterey Park and Half Moon Bay. Since AB 28 was introduced at the beginning of the current legislative session, the United States has experienced hundreds of mass shootings, including horrific incidents in Monterey Park and Half Moon Bay. A recent report by the American Academy of Pediatrics found the firearm death rate for American children increased 40% between 2018 and 2021. Legislative attempts to tax guns have been made since 2013 in California; this is the first bill to pass the Assembly. The vote was 56-17, with seven abstaining. Assemblymembers Gail Pellerin, Robert Rivas and Dawn Addis, who represent Santa Cruz County, voted yes.
8 / October 1st 2023 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
The vote in the State Senate was 27-9 with four abstaining. John Laird voted yes, and Anna Caballero did not vote. “Gun manufacturers are reaping record profits at the same time that gun violence has become the leading cause of death for kids in the United States,” said Gabriel. AB 28 was a top national priority for the gun safety movement with strong support by all of the major gun safety organizations, including Giffords, Moms Demand Action, Everytown, Brady, and March for Our Lives. Gabby Giffords, the Arizona congresswoman shot in the head on Jan. 8, 2011, at a constituent event by a gunman who
killed six people and injured 12 others, said,“Thank you to Governor Gavin Newsom, Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, and thousands of community leaders across California for putting the safety of the people above the gun industry’s profits.” Angela Ferrell-Zabala, executive director of Moms Demand Action, said,“Our grassroots army has been committed to working with our gunsense champions to get it across the finish line.” Moms Demand Action was started by Shannon Watts, a stay-at-home mother of five, after a gunman shot inside Sandy Hook Elementary in Connecticut, killing 20 students and six adults in 2012. Gun sellers already pay a 10-11% federal tax, which goes toward wildlife conservation. Some Republican lawmakers said the tax would penalize law-abiding firearm owners and hunters. n
Governor Signs SB 14: Sex Trafficking of Minors a Strike
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By Jondi Gumz
n Sept. 25, State Sen. Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) announced her bill Senate Bill 14, to make sex trafficking of minors a serious crime, was signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom. SB 14, which makes the crime a strike under the Three Strikes law, goes into effect Jan. 1, 2024. “The signing of Senate Bill 14 is a huge victory for California’s children and the survivors of sex trafficking who have long fought for justice,” said Grove. “We are sending a clear message to child traffickers — we intend to put you out of business and behind bars where you belong. California is one of the top states for human trafficking in the United States. Thousands of people, many of them minors, are forced into sexual exploitation each year. As Grove sees it, by making a conviction for sex trafficking a child a “strikeable” offense, SB 14 will provide serious consequences for those who sexually exploit and abuse children. “I am grateful for the incredible support from the human trafficking survivors
Supporters of SB 14 on sex trafficking celebrate Gov. Newsom signing the bill. who have bravely shared their story with the hope of making this change, the 64 legislative co-authors of SB 14, and the Governor for signing this important bill,” Grove said. “Most of all, I want to thank the thousands of Californians who called or visited legislative offices, signed petitions, and spoke out on social media. We are here today because of the overwhelming public outrage that propelled this bill through the legislature and ultimately helped protect our children from predators.” “SB 14” page 12
COMMUNITY NEWS
Encouraging Compassion, Empathy and Kindness
I
Mount Madonna School Hosts Peace Day Commemoration
wish to begin with a word from the Dalai Lama, ‘If you wish to experience peace, provide peace for another,’” said 12th grade student Beatrice Miller, in her address to the Mount Madonna School student body, faculty and guests during the commemoration of the International Day of Peace on Sept. 21. Students kindergarten through high school presented and performed, along with remarks from Head of School Ann Goewert, faculty member Greg Shirley, and special guest Tenzin Chogkyi, Buddhist teacher and activist. Chogkyi offered a most moving message about empathy and forgiveness and radiated joy all day on campus with those she interacted with. Afterward, Chogkyi visited several MMS elementary and middle school classes, including sixth and seventh grade humanities classes, where she led workshops that got the students writing and talking about their core values and strengths as individuals. Several seventh graders read aloud “The Swan” by the late poet Mary Oliver. “As we rehearsed and studied this poem, the students learned how taking the time to stop and observe nature is one way to inner peace,” said middle school humanities teacher Manjula Stokes. “The poem begins, ‘Did you too see it…’ and the speaker is inviting others into their world by pointing to a bird and sharing their reflections. The poem details the swan as it floats along the river. When the poet asks, ‘And have you too finally figured out what beauty is for?’ they are inviting the listener to join them in self-reflection.”
She added, “The core values exercise was a chance for students to reflect on what they have as a value and how they can share it with others. They discussed their writings with the class and listened to one another. They showed support with what their classmates saw as important parts of themselves. This is related to the peace day commemoration because it connected them to one another in a positive way.” By hosting this event, “Mount Madonna showed all students that peace is a core value of education at this school,” Stokes said. Goewert called the International Day of Peace commemoration ceremony “a powerful, unifying experience for our school community.” She added, “Tenzin brought focus to the room by articulating what peace looks like in action. The guided meditation
acknowledging similarities between ourselves and those we perceive as others was illuminating. This practice can serve our community by bridging differences to develop a better understanding of our shared humanity.” The United Nations has declared this as a day “devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.” The 2023 theme, “Actions for peace: Our ambition for the #GlobalGoals,” represents a call to action. Chogkyi is based in Santa Cruz and became interested in meditation in the early 1970s. She began practicing Tibetan Buddhism in 1991 during a year-long study in India and Nepal. She worked in
administrative positions in several Buddhist centers in the 1990s, and completed several long meditation retreats over a six-year period. In 2004, Chogkyi took monastic ordination with His Holiness the Dalai Lama and has practiced as a monastic for nearly 20 years. Chogkyi is a certified teacher of Compassion Cultivation Training, a program developed at Stanford University. She also teaches the Cultivating Emotional Balance program, which uses contemplative techniques drawn from Buddhism for managing emotions, developed at His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s request. She is a volunteer for the Interfaith Speakers Bureau of the Islamic Networks Group in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, and is on the Board of Advisors. She is a training and curriculum specialist for the Conflict Resolution Center of Santa Cruz County and is on the Sustainable Caring teaching team. In 2023, she started teaching regularly at Insight Santa Cruz. n ••• Photos Courtesy of Mt. Madonna School
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / October 1st 2023 / 9
CALIFORNIA NEWS
AB 957: Bill to Protect TGI Youth Vetoed
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By Jondi Gumz
n Sept. 8, the California State Assembly passed AB 957 to require judges in child custody cases to make “gender affirmation” a factor in child custody cases. The vote was 57-16 along party lines with Assembly members Gail Pellerin, Dawn Addis and Robert Rivas voting yes. The State Senate passed the bill 30-9, along party lines. Senators John Laird and Anna Caballero voted yes. Under it, parents who decline to affirm their child’s gender identity or gender could be guilty of failing to provide for the “health, safety, and welfare” of their child—and lose custody to another parent or the state. Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, declined to sign the bill, writing, “I urge caution when the Executive and Legislative branches of state government attempt to dictate — in prescriptive terms that single out one characteristic — legal standards for the Judicial branch to apply. Other-minded elected officials, in California and other states, could very well use this strategy to diminish the civil rights of vulnerable communities.” Assemblymember Lori Wilson, D-Suisun City, whose child identifies as transgender, introduced the Transgender, Gender-Diverse, and Intersex Youth Empowerment Act on Feb. 14. The co-sponsor is State Sen. Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco.
957.
The term “gender affirmation” isn’t defined in AB
In March, Wilson’s office issued a statement saying, “AB 957 empowers parents who support their TGI children by clarifying once and for all that affirming a child’s gender identity is in the best interest of the child, allowing courts to consider a parent’s affirmation of their
child’s gender identity when making decisions about visitation and custody.” In a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing June 13, state Sen. Scott Wilk, R-Santa Clarita, warned parents to leave California if the bill becomes law. n ••• To read the bill, see legiscan.com/CA/text/AB957/id/2823779
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Soquel Creek Water District Salaries old on, Soquel Creek Water District customers ... our high water rates are about to go up again. At a time when we are all struggling with the high cost of PG&E, food, insurance (if you can even get it), gasoline, medications, etc. we should all be paying attention to yet another water rate increase that will cause further hardship for people on fixed and low incomes. It seems that the more water we conserve, the more we have to pay. Why? A bit of research shows Soquel Creek Water District pays their employees the most of any other water utility in our area, earning the anecdotal title of “the Gold Standard Water Company.” Their sky-high water rates prove it. Soquel Creek Water District is one of nine water districts in our County, all of different sizes, plus many smaller private and mutually owned companies. For a water utility district of their size, their rates are one of the highest in the State, and will soon go up, in part due to exorbitant salaries and benefits, while hiring multiple consultants to handle many tasks. In 2022, the General Manager was paid $334,938 and the Assistant General Manager (promoted from “Special Projects Communication Specialist” last
H
year) got $281,904. These numbers are going up substantially every year. As a comparison, the salary for the City of Santa Cruz Water Department General Manager is much less at $244,220, and that system has many more water connections and a more complex supply and treatment system. You can verify this salary information at TransparentCalifornia.com. Soquel Creek Water District’s top 10 employees’ wages total $2,348,518. There are 58 employees total. All 58 employees made approximately $6,844,858 for 2022 which includes benefits and overtime for many. They are also paying the Assistant General Manager, the Chief Engineer and the Finance Manager monthly bonuses of $1600, $1000 and $1000 associated with their work (alongside at least nine outside consultants) on the Pure Water Soquel Project. While most companies would award hard-working employees a bonus for exceptional work upon completion of a project, Soquel Creek Water District’s General Manager and Board approved these monthly bonuses in 2021, early in the PureWater Soquel Project construction, and even made them retroactive by five months. These bonuses will continue until the Project is finished sometime next year,
10 / October 1st 2023 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
with nearly a one-year delay and coming in over budget in the scheduled timeline for completion. Soquel Creek Water District is a local agency that appears to pay wages like a huge privately-owned company and our water rates will soon be going up again to pay for it. The latest rate increase was an annual 9% hike each year for five years, a huge 54% increase compounded yearly. Our rates go up as their salaries go up... huge wages and bonuses, on our backs. Board members voted themselves a $200/meeting payment, and also get good health benefits for life. What about the water emergency we are in? How is the county building all of the “affordable housing” units in our water district area and the county when all we have heard for years is we don’t have the water to support any building? Our water hookups are the most expensive in the county for homeowners but what about these units? PureWater Soquel’s output numbers are low and will not be able to accommodate all of the new building. They say one thing and do another. So what can we ratepayers do? Attend meetings and email the District’s staff and Board to voice our concerns. Although they seemingly do not want to hear from us, historically dismissing us,
we must continue to remind them that we pay their salaries, and elect the Board to represent us. We have to do what is right and makes sense for us all, especially mindful of those struggling now to pay their water bills, even though the staff and Board seem to have forgotten us. — Kris Kirby, Aptos ••• Storage is Not Affordable am sharing this article with you after reading the Times’ article on the Crocker family’s storage business. I recall Crockers Burgers chain that was prominent in Santa Cruz County in the 1970s with locations that included the building where Bruster’s Ice Cream is today, the building where Carpo’s is today, and the building where Burger King near Staff of Life off Morrissey is today. I am happy for the success they’ve enjoyed in the storage business, however, the high costs to store combined with the penalty of losing all stored belongings for non-payment is a significant problem for low-income people. No wonder a huge facility in Watsonville is being built. Thank you for considering this alternative spin on the Ted Crocker article in Sept. 1. — Peter Stanger, Watsonville
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Search for Youth Poet Laureate Underway S anta Cruz Public Libraries, with Urban Word, Santa Cruz County Office of Education, and Arts Council Santa Cruz County, launches the inaugural Santa Cruz County Youth Poet Laureate Program. This initiative celebrates the vibrant
Farnaz Fatemi
world of youth poetry and offers local young poets the opportunity to serve as the Santa Cruz County Youth Poet Laureate. The Santa Cruz County Youth Poet Laureate will serve one year from April 2024 to April 2025, and will have engagements throughout the year. Teens between 13 and 18 who live in Santa Cruz County and can commit to serving locally are eligible. The Youth Poet Laureate will serve as an advocate and ambassador for poetry, social action, and civic engagement in the county. They will champion their own poetic endeavors while inspiring their peers to embrace the art of poetry through readings, workshops, and appearances across the county. Eligible individuals who are passionate about poetry and eager to make a positive impact on their community are encouraged to apply. The deadline for submissions is Feb. 1, 2024. Applicants
will submit five original poems along with other relevant materials to a panel of local judges. Finalists will be asked to read one of their poems in person for the judges. All finalists will receive a $100 cash honorarium, and the Youth Poet Laureate will be awarded a $500 honorarium. All finalists will receive a gift card donated by Two Birds Books. Finalists will be announced March 31 and a celebration of finalists and introduction of the inaugural Santa Cruz County Youth Poet Laureate will be 6-8 p.m. April 10 at the Kuumbwa Jazz Center in downtown Santa Cruz. As part of the program, a series of workshops will be held in the fall of 2023, aimed at nurturing the talent and creativity of young poets. These workshops are open to all county residents ages 13-18, and they cover a range of topics related to poetry and personal development.
• Oct. 10: Poetry with Farnaz Fatemi, SC County Poet Laureate @ Downtown SC Public Library • Oct. 17: Poetry with Farnaz Fatemi, SC County Poet Laureate @ Felton Public Library • Oct. 25: Poetry with Adela Najarro (bilingual) @ Watsonville Public Library • Nov. 7: Crafting a Resume/Honest Brag sheet @ Capitola Public Library • Nov. 14: Saying It Out Loud: Reading Poetry to an Audience @ Capitola Public Library • Jan. 16: Putting a Poetry Portfolio Together @ Downtown SC Public Library • Week of Jan. 22: Putting a Poetry Portfolio Together @ Watsonville Public Library n ••• For information about the Santa Cruz County Youth Poet Laureate Program, reach out to Farnaz Fatemi at poetlaureate@santacruzpl. org.
Discover your well power. CalPERS members: This Open Enrollment, choose a plan that gives you access to Dignity Health. If you’re comparing health plans this season, consider the advantages of a plan that connects you to Dignity Health, the largest physician network in Santa Cruz County. Like our more than 200 primary and specialty care providers located in more than 100 locations throughout the region. All backed up by Dominican Hospital’s nationally recognized programs for heart, cancer, obstetrics and other specialties. Learn more at DignityHealth.org/SantaCruz.
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / October 1st 2023 / 11
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Stephen Gray Voted Watsonville Hospital CEO
Leader from Sutter Health to Start Nov. 1
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n Sept. 27, Stephen who led the hospital through the Gray was chosen chief challenge of bankruptcy, then resigned for family reasons. executive officer for WatJohn Friel, board chair of the sonville Community Hospital Pajaro Valley Health Care District by the Pajaro Valley Health Care Hospital Corporation, said the District Hospital Corporation four-month search resulted in (dba Watsonville Community “four exceptional finalists.” Hospital) board of directors. Gray has master’s degrees He will start Nov. 1. Stephen Gray in business administration and The board vote was 4-1. Dr. Joe Gallagher voted no on the CEO in public health. He’s been with Sutter Health for 17 years, working on a team employment agreement. Until now Gray has been chief admin- to implement My Health Online at Sutter istrative officer and operations executive Gould Medical Foundation, on a team to for Sutter Bay Medical Foundation – Santa design a state of the art medical campus in Cruz Division, a multi-specialty medical Elk Grove, using Lean principles and cregroup with 200+ physicians, and for the ating a scorecard to track outcomes at Alta 28-bed Sutter Maternity & Surgery Center Bates Medical Center. On Twitter, he praised the Sutter of Santa Cruz. He began there in 2012 as chief admin- Health leadership team and shared a quote istrative officer, became CEO for Sutter from a staffer: “(My hospital) specifically Eden Medical Center in Castro Valley does a really nice job of pulling everything from September 2017 to September 2019, back to WHY are we doing this? WHO is returning to Santa Cruz in 2019. He has this benefitting? Patient care, patient care, patient care. It feels really good to be part lived in Capitola for 11 years. Matko Vranjes has been interim CEO of a team that champions this, but also since March, succeeding Steven Salyer, deeply believes in it.” n
“SB 14” from page 8
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If you are in an airport restroom, you’ll see signs asking you to report suspicious behavior. In February in San Diego, California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced a task force arrested 48 individuals for alleged human trafficking and sexual exploitation, and offered 41 individuals — including eight children — support services, recovering two firearms, including a ghost gun. In August, Bonta announced the arrest of a Sacramento man accused of trafficking a minor in various counties throughout California. The arrest was the result of a 10-month investigation by the California Department of Justice’s Human Trafficking and Sexual Predator Apprehension Team. The suspect was charged by the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office with pimping of a minor under the age of 16, pandering of a minor under the age of 16, and human trafficking of a minor. If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking or is in immediate
danger, call (888) 373-7888 or text BeFree (233733). The bill cleared the Senate on concurrence with a unanimous vote. Support came from more than a hundred local, national and international organizations, including a coalition of human trafficking survivors and advocates. “This law is going to give a greater voice to the multitudes of victims who have suffered from this vicious, humanity-denying crime,” said Ashlie Bryant, CEO 3Strands Global Foundation, which has worked alongside survivors for 13 years and sponsored the measure. “We are thankful for Senator Grove’s leadership and tenacity ensuring that this legislation crosses the finish line.” Data released during the United Nations General Assembly shows that more than 40 million people around the world were victims of slavery in 2016. The California Department of Justice estimates human trafficking generates $150 billion worldwide each year. It has been more than a decade since the California Legislature passed a bill to expand the state’s Three Strikes law. n
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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / October 1st 2023 / 13
COMMUNITY NEWS
Open Studios: First 3 Weekends in October Free Art Tour Showcasing 322 artists in Santa Cruz County
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By Jondi Gumz
pen Studios Art Tour, a chance to visit 322 artists and support local art with a purchase, returns the first three weekends in October — for the 37th year. Neighbors, friends, collectors, and art lovers are invited to connect with artists, see their creative process up close, and buy art from the source. You may wonder: What is new this year? Ann Ostermann, Open Studios director, shares these highlights: There are more first-time participants than ever — a record 65 artists are new. They include Sierra Evans of Aptos, Chelsea Wagner of Santa Cruz, and Charles Gonzales of Watsonville. Not all artists have their own studio so you’ll find artists sharing studios or exhibiting in alternative spaces such as Pajaro Valley Arts in Watsonville where Josefina Rocha and Hermelinda Vasquez-Matias will be. Haven’t explored the Tannery Art Center in Santa Cruz? A record 13 Tannery artists will exhibit, including Gazelle Parsons, Chris
Mosley, Amanda Hess & Bree Karpavage, Margaret Niven, and Anna Cummins. The printed guide, available at libraries and other locations, includes a special feature, “Artists by Medium.” Looking for jewelry makers? Glass blowers? Printmakers? Woodworkers? Artists who specialize in nature? Artists who specialize in pet portraits? Never fear — they are all here! The cover of the 124-page guide displays a distinctive piece of art by Jenni Ward. She has created public art projects in Sweden, Florida, Washington, Taiwan and California — and she’s getting ready to install a largescale public art project on the new Westside Rail Trail. She currently leads a semi-nomadic lifestyle in her van with her husband and dog, and they spend a great deal of time on their desert property in Baja Sur. If you are new to the art tour, remember it is free. You decide which artists to visit and plan your own route.
FIRST THREE WEEKENDS IN OCTOBER
Jenni Ward, Artist #297
ART TOUR 2023
PRESENTING SPONSOR
MAJOR SPONSORS
SOUTH COUNTY Oct. 7-8 NORTH COUNTY Oct. 14-15 ALL COUNTY Oct. 21-22 NEW HOURS! 11am-5pm FREE GUIDE & APP
santacruzopenstudios.com 14 / October 1st 2023 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Studios are open two of the three weekends. Studios are divided between North and South County (with the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor as the dividing point) on this schedule: Oct. 7-8: South County artists — from the Yacht Harbor south Oct. 14-15: North County artists — from the Yacht Harbor north Oct. 21-22: All County — all 277 artists Some artists have participated since 1986, some are newcomers, and all of them are creative. There are so many to see, how can you choose? You could start with this trio: Chris Mosley, a Black artist and co-curator of the month-long Melanated Expressions artist showcase with a passion for glass and innovation at the Tannery Arts Center Studio 124, #224, North County. Sylvia Valentine of Corralitos, a nature photographer who created a book called “Sanctuary,” #13 South County. Winsor Kinkade, a Santa Cruz visual artist and social worker who acknowledges the Amah Mutsun people native to this region, #74 North County. All three were chosen to receive the California Arts Council Emerging Artist Fellowship. This is a $5,000 award to support the artist. Or perhaps you want to see more oil paintings from Natalia Aandewiel, the
Ingrid Marianne • Mixed Media
Ukrainian refugee who inspired the first Ukrainian Art in the Park in Capitola. She’s participating. Or you want to hear about Maggie Renner Hellman’s trip to Italy and what that inspired. She’s participating. Or you want a chance to win a landscape painting by Michele Hausman of Soquel who spent four days painting en plein air on the Big Sur coast with eight other artists. She’s participating. “Open Studios” page 17
Blown Glass – Artist #283 Weekends 1 and 3 (Oct 7,8 and 21,22) 422 Cliff Dr., Aptos
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Education or Wisdom?
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o you ever feel inferior to others because they have more education? Or do you ever feel superior to someone who has very little education? In my family, including my brother, his wife and four children, and my family of Barry and three children, there are three PhD’s, three college degree nurses, one master ’s degree, and the rest have college educations. My father had an engineering degree from a very good college and my mother was proud to have graduated from high school, the first one of her poor immigrant family with eight siblings. With all of the education in our family, it was my mother that we all went to for wisdom and understanding. Wisdom does not come from education, it comes from living a life with gratitude and being open to learning from each experience, whether hard or good, and allowing it to teach you. My mother allowed life to teach her, and there were many difficult aspects to her life. Her mother died when she was six years old, leaving behind a newborn baby to be raised by the older siblings. Her father died when she was just 16. She had twin boys that died one week after birth. She had to support our whole family with her little church secretary job when my father got a recurrence of his childhood polio. There of course were many amazing positive aspects to her life as well. But in the good times and in the challenging times, she learned from it all and trusted God. So when the rest of the family had challenges, we all turned to my mother for her wisdom. It did not matter that she only had a high school education. She had allowed life to teach her, and drew upon this well of wisdom.
By Barry and Joyce Vissell
My parents moved from Buffalo, New York, to live right next door to us when my mother was 75 and my father was 82. My mother lived here until her death at the age of 90 and my father until he was 89. It was wonderful having them live so close. Barry and I carried on our counseling practice in a small room close to where they lived. My mother would sit in her living room each week and watch a young man come to see Barry for counseling. My mother noted that he seemed so sad. One day as he was walking by her apartment, she called out to him, “I just made brownies. After seeing Barry, you could come up and have one.” Well, he did and then each time he came he went up to my mother ’s apartment for fresh brownies and coffee. He would spend one hour with Barry and then one hour with my mother. One day, he came to see Barry and announced that he felt he did not need further counseling as he was doing so much better in his life. Then very shyly he asked, “Is it alright if I continue to come and see your mother-in-law? She is giving me so much right now, just what I am needing.” And so he continued to come and see my mother each week for perhaps two more months. We teased my mother that she was going to run Barry out of business. Ten years ago, a couple came to me for counseling. The man had two PhDs from Harvard and Stanford and the woman was a highly accomplished medical doctor with fellowships from Stanford in three different areas. They were the most educated people I had ever met. I started to feel inferior. What could I say to help them? I have a master ’s degree, but it seemed like nothing compared to all of their education. Then I reminded myself that
My mother would sit in her living room each week and watch a young man come to see Barry for counseling. My mother noted that he seemed so sad. One day as he was walking by her apartment, she called out to him, “I just made brownies. After seeing Barry, you could come up and have one.”
Joyce’s mother: Learning from life
the wisdom I had learned from my life experience, as well as my decades of counseling experience, were what they needed from me. Once I realized that and stopped feeling inferior, the session went very well and I realized I had a lot to give them that their education had not. When our older daughter, Rami, graduated from her PhD program, we took my mother to see the graduation. At the close, when we were congratulating Rami, my mother asked if she could put on her black robe and the scarf of the PhD graduate. She explained to us that she had never worn a graduation gown as her high school was too poor to afford something like that. We helped her on with the robe and took her photo. She looked so proud. Then she said, “When I die, I want this photo used at my memorial. And I want you to tell people that I have graduated from life and have moved onto my higher education in heaven.” And so we did just that, and surely my mother had learned enough in this life to grant her a PhD in wisdom. When the Hospice nurse came to help me dress my mother after she had
died, she spent a long time studying the wrinkles on her face. Then she said to me, “I have been a hospice nurse for a very long time and I study the wrinkles on each person’s face. Your mother lived a good life and she did not have resentments or regrets. She learned from each experience whether it was challenging or easy. She died with much wisdom.” Then she pointed out to me the wisdom lines on her face. May we all learn from life and die free of regrets and resentments, truly grateful for it all, and may the lines on our faces reflect a life well lived. (For more about the wonderful lessons our family learned from the last weeks with my mother, please read A Mother ’s Final Gift.) n ••• Joyce & Barry Vissell, a nurse/therapist and psychiatrist couple since 1964, are counselors in Aptos who are passionate about conscious relationship and personal-spiritual growth. They are the authors of 9 books and a new free audio album of sacred songs and chants. Call 831-684-2130 for information on counseling sessions by phone, online, or in person, their books, recordings or their schedule of talks and workshops. Visit their web site at SharedHeart.org.
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / October 1st 2023 / 15
COMMUNITY NEWS
PVUSD News and Notes
New Academic Coordinator at Mar Vista Elementary he Pajaro Valley Unified School District announces Monica Cesarello as the new academic coordinator of Mar Vista Elementary School in Aptos. PVUSD’s Board of Trustees approved this appointment Sept. 13. She joined the district in 2001 and has worked as a special education teacher, general education teacher, technology/curriculum coach, afterschool program coordinator and as a site administrator. Most recently she was a special education teacher at Mar Vista and before that she was the academic coordinator at MacQuiddy Elementary for 7 years. ••• Superintendent Search our input is fundamental to this process. Soon PVUSD will share a survey that can be completed Nov. 7-17 as well as a schedule for community input Nov. 7,8 and 9. Stay informed by visiting https://sites.google.com/pvusd.net/ pvusdsuperintendentsearch2023/home The goal is to have a permanent
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superintendent on the job in 2024, between March and July. ••• Bus Drivers Bonus ree training will start for prospective bus drivers. PVUSD trainers are offering classes on Oct. 7, 14, 21 and 28. Participants must participate in 3 of the 4 classes. The value of these courses is $2,500. Trainees hired and promoted to school bus driver qualify for a $2,500 signing bonus in two installments! Call 831-728-6324 to register. Iif you are already a certified school bus driver, PVUSD invites you to apply and you will be eligible to receive a signing bonus of $5,000, paid in two installments. ••• Feel Good Video acob Garcia of Watsonville HS, and Marlene Vega and Victor Moreno of Pajaro Valley HS are proud student-teacher artists at the Mariposa Arts Center. Bravo! See https://vimeo.com/851105744 Have you heard of Watsonville’s Library’s Bibliovan? Stephanie Barrazza explains how the Bibliovan reaches out to families who may have not visited the library.
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People can get a library card and check out books at the van. Learn more at https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=ObHcnF3vG0Y ••• Students with Special Needs Thursday, Oct. 19, from 5-6:30 p.m. See https://www,spinsc.org HSS Basics via Zoom In Home Supportive Services topics to be discussed include: eligibility for IHSS; description of general services under IHSS; Protective Supervision; Paramedical Services; the application process for IHSS; and the process of appealing a denial of IHSS or reduction in hours. Questions or help with registration contact: Sonia Plageman at splageman@ spinsc.org or (831) 423-7713. Registration link: https://bit.ly/44mbkeL ••• Practical Special Education Advocacy Tips for Parents Tuesday, Dec. 5, from 6-7:30 p.m. teps you can take to improve your advocacy skills and help you become a more effective advocate for your child. Ample time for Q&A.
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Monica Cesarello Questions or help with registration contact: Elizabeth Chavez at echavez@ spinsc.org or (831) 722-2800. Registration link: https://bit.ly/44WDTiI n
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16 / October 1st 2023 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
SEACLIFF
“Open Studios” from page 14 Ostermann, who’s been doing this for 21 years, said “it takes a lot of planning and nerve” for artists to prepare to welcome guests where they work. She sees the rewards. “It’s a joy to see it pay off with art sales and new relationships formed, old friends reunited, and neighbors getting to know each other,” she said. “It’s also a great event for visitors to experience the creative life of our area.” n Cover Photo: A painting by Sierra Evans of Aptos
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Paul Russell • Sculpture
Tips to Plan Your Art Tour
pen Studios connects us to many of Santa Cruz County’s visual artists,” said Ann Ostermann, director of the event since 2002. “It’s an opportunity to visit a studio and learn more about the artist’s creative practice, tour a neighborhood you don’t know yet, or purchase a piece from your favorite local artist.” Whether this is your first Open Studios or you’ve attended for years, here are six strategies for mapping your tour: 1. Pick up a FREE artist guide at the library or other drop-off points throughout the county. Find artists in your neighborhood by medium, or simply browse through the guide and find artwork that captures your eye. If you can’t find a guide, stop by the Arts Council offices at 1070 River St., Santa Cruz during open hours — a stack is available throughout October. “Plans” page 23
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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / October 1st 2023 / 17
COMMUNITY NEWS
Monterey Airport Gets $25 Million T he Monterey Regional Airport was awarded two grants totaling $25 million for upgrades through the Airport Improvement Program and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. U.S. Representative Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley announced the federal grants, made possible through a $22 million Federal Aviation Administration’s AIP grant to support improvements to the airport’s tarmac and terminal and $3 million from the Infrastructure Act for passenger terminal design. Monterey Regional Airport Executive Director Michael La Pier said the money “will allow us to begin construction of new infrastructure to support a relocated terminal building …We’d like to thank Congressman Panetta and his staff for their tireless work.” He added, “This is one of the largest grants the airport has been awarded and will go a long way toward achieving our goal.” “By investing in our Monterey Regional Airport, we are investing in the economy and communities of California’s
19th Congressional District,” said Rep. Panetta. “Due to the historic legislation that we passed in Congress, we’re ensuring that the Monterey Regional Airport receives the necessary funding to continue providing its stellar services for travelers and businesses. This type of federal investment in our airport’s safety and passenger experience is crucial to the economic growth, connectivity, and future of our community.” The Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act provided $15 billion in airport infrastructure funding. The money can be invested in runways, taxiways, safety and sustainability projects, as well as terminal, airport-transit connections, and roadway projects. n
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18 / October 1st 2023 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
Change from Sector August 2023 August 2022 Leisure/hospitality 15,700 Up 1,000 Private education 18,700 Up 800 & health Government 18,500 Up 200 Other 5,500 Up 200 Construction 5,300 Up 100 Professional/business 11,000 Up 100 services Financial 3,300 no change Information 600 no change Manufacturing 8,000 Down 100 Trade/transportation/ 16,500 Down 300 utilities Nonfarm 103,100 Up 2,000 Farm 9,600 Down 500 Total 112,700 Up 1,500 ~~~ Labor force 135,800 Down .6% Employment* 128,900 Down 1.8% Unemployment 6,900 Down 28% Unemployment rate 5.1% 3.9% Count is on the 12th of the month *Includes commuters out of the county
Source: California Employment Development Department ••• Unemployment in Santa Cruz County rose from 4.8% in July to 5.1% in August as the labor force contracted from 136,300 to 128,900. Unemployment remains low, compared to 17+% in 2020, fueled by pandemic restrictions. Leisure/hospitality is up 1,000 compared to a year ago, but those tend to be lower-paying jobs. Capitola Veterinary Hospital is recruiting a receptionist, paying $16 to $20 an hour. Pet Pals in Soquel needs a warehouse staff, paying $17.50 per hour. Telecare, the county contractor, needs a mental health clerk, paying $21.19 to $29.87 per hour. Santa Cruz Community Health needs a front office assistant, offering $23 to $24.72 per hour. Paradise Valley Spa in Capitola is seeking a salesperson, paying base salary plus commission with potential to earn $60,000+. Davey Tree needs a utility foreman, paying $43.90 to $45.95 per hour. n
COMMUNITY NEWS
Actors’ Theatre: Full Season Announced A ctors’ Theatre announces a full season of plays for 2023-24, starting with The Thin Place by Lucas Hnath, the story of the friendship between a veteran medium and a woman grappling with loss, Thursday through Sundays, Oct. 13 through Oct. 29, with a special closing performance on Halloween night. Miguel Reyna directs. January: 8 Tens @ 8 Festival returns, chosen from 300 submissions. Opens Jan. 19 through Feb. 18, performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, and Saturday and Sunday matinees. Local playwright Steve “Spike” Wong’s original play White Sky, Falling Dragon, which had its world premiere last fall in Mountain View, returns with the original cast. Inspired by Spike’s father, Captain Ernest Wong, USAAF, White Sky, Falling Dragon tells the story of a young ChineseAmerican man’s return to small-town Watsonville in 1944 after his service as a bombardier in World War II. As he struggles to come to terms with the tragedy of his last mission, his Chinese family obligations clash with his search for a path to his future, and the way forward depends on a secret. A unique blend of drama and comedy, and a tribute to the complexities of what it means to come home.
Opens April 19 through May 5, performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, and Saturday and Sunday matinees. Collaboration with Soaring Dragon Endeavors. Actors’ Theatre welcomes other performing arts groups, school and youth theater, solo shows, Best Coast Burlesque, and the Y2K Loop Fest. Actors’ Theatre is participating in First Friday Art Walks downtown. Oct. 6: Hand shadow master Adelina Skalandytė will perform then demonstrate how to make characters and give viewers a chance to try casting shadows. n ••• Season tickets for 4 shows costs $130 for adults, $120 for seniors/students at: https://www.santacruzactorstheatre.org/ tickets.
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Aptos JV Boys Water Polo
he Aptos High junior varsity boys’ water polo team is off to a 2-1 start, according to Coach Noah Brooks. ••• Aptos vs Harbor at home Aptos won 14-9 reshman Gabriel Suarez-Abraham and sophomore Caden Yates both had 5 goals apiece. Freshman goalie Rafael Suarez-Abraham made 10 saves and allowed 2 goals in the 2 quarters he played.
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Aptos vs Santa Cruz at home Santa Cruz won 15-1 abriel Suarez-Abraham had 1 goal for Aptos. Jack Widman had 1 assist. Rafael Suarez-Abraham had 15 saves in the 3 quarters he played.
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Non-league Aptos at Pacific Grove Aptos won 12-8 abriel Suarez-Abraham had 1 shot block and 6 goals. Caden Yates had 1 assist and 2 goals. Thomas Westfall had 1 shot block. Silas Reynolds had 1 goal and 4 steals. Jack Widman had 2 goals. Rafael Suarez-Abraham had 13 saves, 5 steals and 1 assist. ••• oach Brooks was a standout at Cabrillo College, selected to All-Conference first team in both seasons. He played one season at Chapman University when the Covid-19 pandemic hit. He’s been coaching at Santa Cruz Water Polo Club for seven years. n
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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / October 1st 2023 / 19
COMMUNITY NEWS
Halloween Fundraiser
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Saturday October 21
he Scotts Valley Community Theater Guild is hosting a fundraiser, Meet Edgar: A Halloween
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Bash to Die For, at the new Scotts Valley Cultural and Performing Arts Center. Boo-gy down to the music of Michael Gaither and his Scary New Best Friends. The event includes dramatic entertainment, lite bites, costume contests with prizes. Come in costume and receive a free adult beverage. Enter a drawing to win a weeklong summer vacation at Lake Tahoe. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Tickets $50 at the door or in advance at http://www. svctheaterguild.com. Call: 831-566-9411 for information. n ••• 7–10:30 p.m., Scotts Valley Cultural and Performing Arts Center, 251-B Kings Village Rd.
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20 / October 1st 2023 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
COMMUNITY NEWS
Pajaro Valley Health Fair
Friday, Sept. 29 • 2 to 6 p.m., Watsonville Plaza, 358 Main St.
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he Community Health Trust of Pajaro Valley will host its annual Health Fair at Watsonville Plaza. Get ready for an afternoon of FREE health screenings provided by Dignity Health, dental screenings by Salud Para La Gente, vision screenings by Spectrum Eye, access to 40+ community
resources, and a chance to win some great prizes! Don’t miss this opportunity to prioritize your health and have fun! For info, visit: www.pvhealthtrust. org/health-fair-2023/ or contact Eli Garnica at eganica@pvhealthtrust.org or (831) 726-4263. n
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / October 1st 2023 / 21
COMMUNITY NEWS
Capitola Plein Air Returns
One Magic Week of Painting Outdoors from Oct. 30 to Nov. 5
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By Laurie Hill
xpect to see 40 artists in the city Oct. 30-Nov. 5 for the 7th Annual Capitola Plein Air painting event. The Capitola Arts and Cultural Commission received nearly 70 applications for this year’s competition. The jury selected both returning artists, including many previous award winners, as well as several artists new to Capitola.
2016 1st place: “Sunset Under the Pier” by Cyrus “Chad” Hunter
The selected artists will paint throughout Capitola, out of doors, during the week. Returning artist Cyrus “Chad” Hunter raced time and tide to complete his 2016 first place piece “Sunset Under the Pier.” Hunter said, “I’ve noticed I work better when I work quickly. My work is fresher ... There’s immediacy, boldness, impressionistic and abstract aspects, and more intent when I’m under the gun.” An exciting new Quick Paint event will take place 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, in Esplanade Park. At the start of an air gun, the artists have only 2 hours to complete and hang a painting for competition. There will be ribbons awarded, and art sales during this event. The Capitola Wharf Enhancement Project team will be in the park to share updates and continue their fundraising for the Capitola Wharf amenities.
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On Sunday, Nov. 5, the artists will display all their completed work for a competition and sale at Capitola’s Community Center, 4400 Jade St. The public is invited to attend this free exhibition 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. to meet with the artists, and to view and purchase original works of art. There will be live music, an art activity for all ages, and a food truck. Returning pastel artist Marti Walker remarked, “For one magic week, the seaside village of Capitola embraces the artists who come to capture its beauty, coziness, friendliness and excitement! It’s a chance to see the unique viewpoint each artist chooses to create on canvas. For artists, time evaporates, we’re in the ‘Zone,’ smiling as we stand in the open air doing what fills our hearts with joy and contentment!” This event is one more contribution by the Capitola Arts and Cultural Commission to our art-loving community! All
Marti Walker paints in the Forest of Nisene Marks are invited to enjoy this popular celebration of art that features the City of Capitola. n ••• Visit http://capitolapleinair.com for more information.
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CALIFORNIA NEWS
State Bill AB 1286 Targets Prescription Errors at Drugstore Chains
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By Jondi Gumz
2021 survey of California pharmacists by state regulators found 25% of pharmacists at chains reported three to five errors per month in prescriptions, compared to fewer than 10% at independent drugstores. Some were more error-prone: About 8% of pharmacists at chains reported six to 10 errors per month in prescriptions compared to 4% of independent pharmacies. Asked if the pharmacy staffing is appropriate to ensure adequate patient care, 91% of 1,932 chain pharmacists said no. Only 37% of 236 independents felt that way. The difference is 44% of independent pharmacists reported employing a clerk-typist compared to 37% of chain pharmacists. And 19% of independents reported 2 clerk-typists, compared to 10% of chains. At chains, the most common scenario was zero clerk-typists, reported by 44%, but only 16% of independents. The workload is higher at chains, with 35% reporting more than 300 prescriptions during a shift. At independents, it was 20%. The most common errors: Incorrect strength, incorrect drug and incorrect quantity, along with incorrect directions. And 95% of 2,103 chain pharmacists reported they are required to provide other services, such as immunizations, naloxone, birth control pills, smoking cessation and travel meds. At independents, only 57% of 253 independents must perform services beyond filling prescriptions. California does not require pharmacies to report medication errors. That’s a problem Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco) aims to address with AB 1286, the Stop Dangerous Pharmacies Act.
“Plans” from page 17 2. Follow Open Studios on Instagram @openstudios.scc to learn more about participating artists and see behind the scenes. 3. View participating artists on the Open Studios artist A-Z pages at https:// openstudios.artscouncilsc.org/artists. 4. Download the FREE app — available on iTunes & Google Play. Mark your
The bill has passed out of the Legislature after months of negotiations with chain pharmacies, labor groups, and regulators and is now headed to Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has 12 days to sign, approve without signing or veto it. The vote was 59 yes, 8 no and 13 absent. All nay votes were Republican. Assembly members Robert Rivas, Gail Pellerin and Dawn Addis voted yes. The vote in the Senate was 30 yes, 9 no, and 1 absent. All eight Republicans voted no. Senator John Laird voted yes, and Anna Caballero was absent. Haney says the bill would create “first in the nation regulations to crack down on what has become a nationwide problem
of understaffed chain pharmacies making dangerous medication errors.” If the bill becomes law, chain pharmacies will be required to report medication errors to a entity created by the state Board of Pharmacy. The reports would be confidential and not subject to discovery, subpoena or disclosure but the board could publish de-identified information compiled from the data. This bill would require a chain pharmacy to be staffed at all times with at least one clerk or pharmacy technician fully dedicated to pharmacy services. If the staffing does not overlap sufficiently, then the pharmacy is required to close for lunch time and post that information for customers. The pharmacist on duty could
waive this requirement in writing based on workload. “Shockingly, there’s no centralized reporting mechanism for medication errors,” Haney said. “There should be transparency, and the Board of Pharmacy should have the authority to respond to protect patients. That’s not happening right now.” The bill also would authorize a pharmacy technician under a pharmacist’s direction to prepare and administer influenza and COVID-19 vaccines via injection or intranasally, prepare and administer epinephrine, perform specimen collection, receive prescription transfers, and accept clarification on prescriptions. According a September report in the Los Angeles Times, pharmacies in California are making almost 5 million medication errors a year. According to a 2023 report in the National Library of Medicine, 7,000 to 9,000 people in the U.S. die each year as a result of a medication error. The cost of looking after patients with medication-associated errors exceeds $40 billion annually -- not to mention psychological and physical pain and suffering and growing distrust in the medical system. California law prohibits most types of healthcare providers from being employed by corporations, however, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians are an exception. At a chain drugstore, decisions about staffing and safety are made by management rather than the pharmacist who has completed years of education to safely provide sometimes dangerous medications. Rite Aid, CVS and Walgreens did not respond to the Lost Angeles Times’ request for comments other than to say these errors are typically rare, and that robust reporting mechanisms are in place as well as systems aimed at minimizing human error. n
favorite artists in the app, map their location, and then build a tour around that. 5. Follow the green signs. During Open Studios, you’ll see lime green signs with artist names and arrows all over the county. Consider every Open Studios sign your personal invitation. Follow the signs and enter a studio. 6. Check out the Preview Exhibit at the
Santa Cruz Art League, open Sept. 29 through Oct. 22 at the Santa Cruz Art League, 526 Broadway, Santa Cruz. Preview Exhibit features artwork from more than 300 Open Studios artists. Pop into the gallery, find artwork that intrigues you, and note which studios you want to visit. Meet the artists at the public reception 3-6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1. Free bike valet parking. Visit one or 100! No one is keeping
score. Spend a day or just a few minutes, whatever fits your schedule and mood. n ••• Open Studios is the premiere event of Arts Council Santa Cruz County, which has a mission is to nurture and invest in artists, culture, and the arts. Arts Council makes grants to artists and arts organizations, arts education programs serving 20,000 youth across Santa Cruz County, and supports the Tannery Arts Center, and the Watsonville Center for the Arts. Learn more at www.artscouncilsc.org
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / October 1st 2023 / 23
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Airlines Hide Fees and Congress Wants to Help Them
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hen Carolyn DiDonato booked her ticket from Trenton, N.J., to Fort Myers, Fla., she says she was hit with a hidden airline fee. On the last screen, concealed behind a drop-down menu, Frontier Airlines revealed that she would have to pay a nonrefundable $23 carrier interface charge for buying her ticket online. “It was definitely a hidden fee,” says DiDonato, a retired nurse from Hamilton, N.J. DiDonato wishes the airline had shown the charge earlier in the booking process. If it had, then she says she would have been able to make a more informed purchasing decision. Frontier is hardly the only airline that can be accused of obscuring the real cost of air travel, nor is the carrier interface charge its most troubling fee. Just try booking a flight in Europe, Australia or Southeast Asia and you’ll encounter the same problem. Many airlines, especially discount carriers, quote a dirt-cheap base fare. But if you want to check a bag or just a carry-on bag, the cost of your fare can easily double. If you think that’s bad, just wait until Congress passes the FAA Reauthorization Bill, which funds the Federal Aviation Administration. The version being considered by Congress has a provision that would rescind a full-fare advertising rule that requires airlines to quote an airfare that includes all mandatory taxes and fees. “Doing away with the rule may lead to opportunistic behavior by some in the airline industry,” says Eric Chaffee, business law professor at Case Western University. Airlines Conceal Fees Despite Rules ew research suggests DiDonato has plenty of company. NetVoucherCodes, a British deals website, found that many U.S. airlines conceal the true cost of flying even with the full-fare advertising rule. The company
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By Christopher Elliott
conducted its investigation by creating realistic bookings that included options such as carry-on baggage, checked bags, and seat selection. NetVoucherCodes found Spirit Airlines hid the cost of flying the most, with the average flight cost soaring by 736%. Frontier ranked number 3, and Delta Air Lines was the worst-performing legacy airline at number 5, with an average increase of 158%. American Airlines was the most transparent on the list with an average increase of just 95%. (Notably absent was Southwest Airlines, whose fares include a checked bag and open seating.) How They Do it irlines are hiding the real cost of a ticket in many ways. But mostly, they do it by stripping away items that most passengers need, such as seat assignments and luggage. That gives the impression that their flights are much cheaper than they are. Consider DiDonato’s flight to Florida. The lowest fare from Trenton to Fort Myers in early October is just $78 roundtrip, but to get that price, you have to join Frontier’s Discount Den, a “low fare” club that costs $59.99 per year, plus a $40 enrollment fee. Otherwise, the price of the flight rises by $10. Next, Frontier takes you through a dizzying series of sales pitches, from $31 seat assignments (“If you do not select a seat now, you will be randomly assigned a seat from the remaining selection at check-in,” it warns) to $58 for a carry-on bag. That’s right, $58 for a carry-on bag. Nine screens later, the airline finally reveals the full breakdown of the fare, which includes the carrier interface charge. On some flights, that fee is as high as $46. The display makes it look as if this is a government tax, but it is not. “The carrier interface charge is a fee used to cover the technology and infrastructure costs associated with the development of web and mobile-based booking and check-in tools,” explains
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24 / October 1st 2023 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
Frontier spokeswoman Jennifer De La Cruz. You can avoid the fee by buying your ticket at the airport, she says, because you are not using Frontier’s website or mobile app. However, there is no option on the Frontier site to hold a reservation and complete it at the airport. But that’s not the worst of it. If you fly like most people -- with a carry-on, a checked bag, a seat assignment and agent assistance -- the price of your flight shoots up to $428. That’s a 448% increase. What Should They Do? rontier should have showed DiDonato the $428 fare first, along with an option to deselect checked luggage and an assigned seat if she wanted to lower her fare. But people aren’t likely to book a $428 fare from Trenton to Fort Myers, and airlines know that. So they want to display that $78 fare and then add “optional” extras. They can sell more tickets -- and they do. DiDonato booked her ticket despite the fare shenanigans because Frontier was the only airline with service from Trenton to Fort Myers. Frontier says passengers prefer to see a low fare first. De La Cruz says its model also pressures other airlines to reduce their fares to remain competitive. And she says the way it displays prices is honest. “The costs for optional services are disclosed in the booking process well before ticket purchase,” she says. Congress will allow even more of Frontier’s brand of honesty in its upcoming FAA bill. The legislation will let airlines show you fares stripped of taxes, mandatory security fees and airport charges. That would permit Frontier to display a roundtrip fare of just $20 initially. Remarkably, Frontier charges a 7-cent
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airfare on the return flight to Trenton. The current full-fare advertising rule prevents the airline from being able to advertise that price. (See graphic at right) “The Department of Transportation’s Full Fare Advertising rule was hard fought and for more than a decade it has been quite effective in forcing airlines and ticket sellers to provide the complete price of an airline ticket, inclusive of all mandatory taxes and fees,” said William McGee, a senior fellow for aviation at American Economic Liberties Project. He says the latest effort to roll back the rule is an obvious attempt by the airline lobby to make airfare shopping more confusing. As if it isn’t confusing enough already. •••
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Tips to Avoid Hidden Fees
ost airlines will try to dangle a low fare in front of you and then add extras until you’re paying much more than you expected. Pallavi Sadekar, head of operations at VisitorGuard.com, says doing your homework is the key to avoiding a bad experience. “Researching airline reviews and seeking recommendations from other travelers can also provide valuable insights,” she says. Fly on an airline that doesn’t hide its fees. In the United States, Southwest Airlines is your best bet. Internationally, Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines include two checked bags in the price of their fares. Bundle your fare. Many airlines -even the most fee-happy ones -- allow you to bundle fees like checked luggage and the ability to change a ticket. These can be a better deal if you do your research and compare them to an a la carte ticket. Join a loyalty program. If you fly the same airline frequently, you’ll want to sign up for its loyalty program. Many airlines let their program members avoid fees like checked luggage. But if you’re not a frequent flyer, avoid these programs, as they can be habit-forming and lead to unwise purchases. ••• 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 reach him here or email him at chris@elliott.org. Illustration by Christopher Elliott Graphic Source: Frontier Airlines Spreadsheet Source: NetVoucherCodes
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Water Harvest Festival
A Celebration of Water and Community
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oquel Creek Water District’s 5th annual Water Harvest Festival brings together residents, nonprofits and community organizations to educate, inspire, and empower families to make a positive impact on their local water resources. The 2023 Water Harvest Festival is set to make a splash at its new location, Chanticleer County Park (Leo’s Haven), on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm. Since its inception in 2018, the Water Harvest Festival has grown into a dynamic showcase of waterrelated activities and educational experiences. The festival was the brainchild of District staff members who aimed to create an engaging platform for children and families to learn about water resources and conservation in a fun and interactive way. This vision has led to the festival’s success over the years, drawing inspiration from similar events hosted by sister agencies. This year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever. Among the exciting additions is the Pure Water Kombucha tasting, a collaboration with the Orange County Water District and local enterprise Living Swell Kombucha Co. Festival-goers will have the opportunity to savor a unique kombucha crafted exclusively for the Soquel Creek Water District, utilizing Orange County Water District’s purified water. This marks the
By Rebecca Gold Rubin
first time kombucha has been created using purified water, and the result is a vibrant blue-hued beverage that’s as refreshing as it is innovative. Adding to the festival’s energetic atmosphere will be two new performers— SambaDá and Singing Wind Marimba. Their lively and rhythmic acts promise to captivate the diverse crowd, elevating the festive spirit of the event. With the participation of 20 organizations, the festival’s lineup of water-themed activities is truly impressive. Each organization brings its unique contribution to educate and engage attendees on various aspects of water conservation and awareness. Children will also have the chance to embark on a passport adventure, collecting stamps from different booths with their families. These stamps can then be turned in for raffle tickets, offering them the chance to win exciting prizes generously contributed by local organizations and businesses. In keeping with tradition, the festival offers free face painting for all attendees, adding a touch of creativity to the event. Foodies are also in for a treat, as two food trucks will be on-site to satisfy cravings and provide sustenance throughout the day. “We are thrilled to invite individuals and families to join us at the 2023 Water Harvest Festival,” said Mackenzie Morris,
District communications specialist and chair of the event. “This event is a testament to the power of community and the shared commitment to water conservation and education. With the support of local organizations, performers, and sponsors, we are confident that this year’s festival will be an unforgettable experience for all.” Whether attendees are sipping on
innovative Pure Water Kombucha, enjoying captivating performances, or exploring the myriad water-themed activities, one thing is certain—this festival will not only entertain but also inspire a deeper appreciation for our most precious resource: water. We hope to see you there! n ••• You can follow event details at www. soquelcreekwater.org.org/WHF
The 2000s
30. Marine mammal in 64. K-pop country 10. *”The Da Vinci ____,” 36. Chronic drinkers ACROSS famous Beatles’ song 65. Woody creeper best selling book of the 38. Post-it slip 1. Interest in a venture 35. Fabled fliers 67. Teletype machine, for 2000s 42. Like #59 Down 6. Hundredweight, acr. short 11. A-bomb particle 45. *Pink’s 2008 hit (2 9. Med. sch. requirement 37. Jealous biblical brother 13. ____ the tail ___ the 68. Picture within a picture, 12. Levy words) donkey 39. Averse e.g. 15. Like “something new” 49. Break down 14. Duran Duran’s 1982 hit 40. *”He’s Just Not That 69. *”____ Smart” boutique 51. Dismissal or ejection 15. All plants and animals ____ You” (2009) (2008) 20. Beginning of sleeping 54. “Peace” with fingers 16. Part of an eye, pl. 41. Acrylic fiber 70. Make a canyon, e.g. disorder 56. “Madame Butterfly”, e.g. 17. Go for the bull’s eye 43. Arabian chieftain 71. Furniture wood 22. Feline sound 57. First rate (2 words) 18. Reduction/oxidation 44. Apartments, e.g. 72. Utmost degree 24. Put to work 58. Sky’s Major one portmanteau 46. *Friendster or 73. Financing values 25. *Toyota Hybrid 59. *Like Best Buy’s Squad 19. *Best selling author of Facebook, e.g. introduced worldwide in 60. Urban legend the 2000s 47. 5,280 feet DOWN 2000 61. Tons (2 words) 21. *Billboard’s music artist 48. Metal detector, e.g. 1. Horse prod 26. 1,000 kilograms 62. Relinquish, as in of the 2000s 50. Goose egg 2. *Popular DVR device 27. Play a part (2 words) property 23. Chicken ____ ____ 52. Cry of horror in comics 3. All over again 29. *2002-2004 zoonotic 63. *Jennifer Aniston and king 53. Made a basket 4. Eucalyptus-eating epidemic cause, acr. Brad Pitt, after 2005 24. From a thrift store 55. *Frodo Baggins and marsupial 31. Rich soil 64. *American Girl ____ 25. Class-conscious grp. Samwise Gamgee or 5. Store in a silo 32. China grass Kittredge 28. Formerly, once Nemo and Dory, e.g. 6. Mountain goat terrain 33. Handy 66. Doctor Dolittle, e.g. 57. *Name for 2000s 7. *Xbox competitor 34. *First ever recipient of 60. *Popular social network 8. Libraryful Oscar for Best Animated © Statepoint Media of the 2000s 9. Dignified manner Feature
Answers on 31 »
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / October 1st 2023 / 25
Forgiveness, Forgetting & Thanksgiving in the Season of Autumn Esoteric Astrology • October 2023 • By Risa D’Angeles
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riday, September 22, 2023, around midnight, in northern latitudes, the Sun entered Libra and autumn began. In the southern latitudes, the Sun entered Aries spring began. Everything is equal on earth — north and south, east and west, up and down, here and there, heaven and earth. Disciples recognize this. The four seasons of the year begin with the equinoxes and solstices, sacred days, followed by the passage of the Sun into a different signs — each with its different light. Autumn begins when Sun enters Libra — sign of justice and equilibrium, of balance and harmony. The secular (in the world) calendar of the Hebrew people always begins in the month of Tishri (Hebrew for September) near Autumn Equinox after the new moon. A Milepost (marker) — In the ancient Greek temples. Virgo (Astrea, Virgin of the Skies) held in her hands the Scales of Judgment (Libra) which extended to Scorpio (reorientation, call to discipleship). Libra is thus the milepost (marker) — the sign, time and place of decision, pointing on one hand to the path of Virgo (past) and the other pointing to Scorpio (testing). Libra asks each of us, “Which direction will you choose?” Libra is the “parting of the ways.” It provides us with an interim time ARIES
The sign Virgo with its new and full moons brought forth the idea of service (which means care), first to self then to others. This is a time of asking and pondering upon what and whom we serve? In daily life order and organization are needed, along with a focus on health and well-being. As Virgo called for purification, Libra calls for harmony. Allow all that is not harmonious to quietly fall away. You discover and new livingness and a renewed faith in yourself.
to consider this question of direction. Every seeker comes to this time of decision on their own. It is a momentous decision, especially during this Kali Yuga. In the Jewish calendar we are in the Days of Awe or Days of Forgiveness. This began on September 15, with Rosh Hashanah (celebrating G-d’s creation of the world) and culminates at Yom Kippur (the holiest day of the Jewish year), or Day of Atonement (September 24/25). If we have forgiven others and asked for forgiveness, if our hearts are pure, “G-d writes and seals our name in the Book of Life for another year”. I offer these Hebrew words to everyone reading this column — “G’mar Hatima Tova” (May you be sealed in the Book of Life for another year)! May we all be sealed in the Book of Life. Friday, September 29 is the first full moon of autumn. It is solar festival of Libra (6 degrees). It is also the Jewish Festival of Succoth, the Jewish Harvest Festival (sundown, Sept. 29 — nightfall Oct. 6). It is the celebration of thanksgiving in the Jewish religion. n ••• Read more on Risa’s FB page and website: www.nightlightnews.org.
LEO
Something has happened during this retrograde season. With six retrogrades in the sky I see they are affecting your sense of values, your relationship to religion, your wound, the pain of which comes and goes, you’re wondering if you will ever reach your goals, and your realization that everything from before may not be the reality hereafter. You’re called now to uphold a new reality and to assume different tasks in the world. You undertake this with bravado and a sense of theatre. As the clouds clear, and the mists part, you will understand.
VIRGO
CAPRICORN
TAURUS
As Libra begins to unfold the golden autumn light, the thought of harmony with others appears in our thoughts. And then a new level of courage is offered so you can begin to take little steps and risks along the way. In order to help bring forth the new realities for the new era, one must have confidence that they are correct. Directions given to each of us are like bread crumbs on the path. You must learn a bit more about working as a team under the dual umbrellas of care and cooperation.
You may be called to act with more courage and confidence than is usual concerning how you see and identify who you are to yourself. Events may occur that shift all ideas and belief systems. Your thoughts about reality held for so long may actually turn out not to be real. What this means, after a bit of shock, is a new journey begins for you as old ways quickly pass away. It’s good to assess how you present yourself to the world. As we change internally our appearance seeks to change too. Becoming more beautiful.
GEMINI
Inner spiritual resources can come to your aid when you feel at sea, adrift, frightened, confused and without direction. Prayer is the key. Prayer helps us sustain any storms that occur, any illnesses that appear. It’s good to even storm heaven when there is great need. Much of what you have relied upon, even desires, drift away. Though it seems as if answers are covered by a mist, persevere in your prayers of asking and the veils will fall away. You’ve built up strong inner resources over the years. Prayer offers us another type of strength.
Two areas of life are activated – that of home and the other of work in the world – one inner and one outer. Both need a new level of care and attention for both are changing. You work instinctually when it comes to family and home. Your wounds can be stimulated thinking of being out and about in the world. Recognize what the wounds may be. Let the knowledge simply wash over you. Take Ignatia Amara (homeopath for grief). Home at this time is your safeguard.
LIBRA
CANCER
What is needed in our world today, with friends and family, is the sharing of our talents, gifts and abilities, along with our knowledge and experiences. We all must gather into communities wherever we are. You often keep information to yourself under your shell of protection. However, there are so many who need your knowledge, expertise, ways of knowing and living. Please consider sharing more. The new era is unfolding and it needs the Cancer qualities of nurturing and nourishment to maintain momentum. These are your gifts.
SAGITTARIUS
Security, safety and well-being, your own and for others, become a significant focus along with concern about finances and resources. They are all different levels of thriving and the art of living. How would you make yourself more secure and comfortable? How would you best help others in need? Is there another kingdom (animal, plant, mineral) you are caring for? Ponder upon what intimacy means to you. It’s time to begin a new creative endeavor. One that places you on the path of beauty.
So many things about the future have felt misty, cloudy and uncertain. Everywhere you look there is a need. And those that need are looking to you to fulfill them. Tending to yourself often gets lost, laid aside. Until exhaustion stops you in your tracks. When you rest, when you are able to be creative, life turns around again, falls into place. There is someone who needs special tending and encouragement. Consult most unusual doctors for the cure. Multiple hands are steadier, ideas are able to be turned into action. Respond to offers for help Choose all of them. Then you can laugh again. AQUARIUS
You’re learning how well you can provide for yourself. You’re recognizing your creative efforts and daily focus keep you well protected and cared for. I have written many times that Aquarians are the ones who come from the future. So they know the future. Rather like an “unthought known.” And therefore all they experience prepares others who watch them for that future, for the times to come. You are valuable. You are our forerunner. Each night before sleep offer gratitude to those who love you. Include angels who care for you at night in your prayers of gratitude.
SCORPIO
A new creative self-identity is attempting to form itself within your heart and mind. Often, we form new identities when we step into the burning ground. There may have been expectations that didn’t quite work out as planned or hoped for. There are people, friends, hopes, wishes and dreams hovering about in the airs around you. Be sure to communicate with those who love and support you. Soon new challenges will come your way. Scorpio loves challenges. It’s always something…reorienting, transforming, appearing disappearing, dying, shifting or being born. •••
Risa D’Angeles • www.nightlightnews.org • risagoodwill@gmail.com 26 / October 1st 2023 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
PISCES
There is a need for clarity about the quality and nature of relationships with intimates, friends, acquaintances. Some contacts and associates have fallen away and some you no longer care to be part of. This signifies that you are walking down a different path now, entering into new studies, working on new and different goals. At first recollection there’s a bit of sadness. Then you turn toward the new lands offered. A new world comes into view. It’s a world of cooperation, sharing, solidarity, team work, cohesion, harmony and unanimity — principles of the new Aquarian era.
COMMUNITY BRIEFS Teen Artes Program Mural Celebration Friday October Oct 6 2:30 p.m., Ramsay Park celebration is scheduled at Ramsay Park for a colorful new mural created by community muralist Jaime Sánchez and 11 students from Pajaro Valley High School, Watsonville High School, and Aptos High School in the new Teen Artes program. This piece is called “The Bigger Picture.” The students spent 10 weeks on the project. They explored their creative desires, learned new artistic methods and skills, designed their mural, presented their proposal to the City of Watsonville’s Parks and Rec Commission (got it approved!), and applied their new knowledge into the fabrication of a mural that proudly showcases their hopes and dreams for Watsonville. ••• Annual Harvest Festival at Staff of Life Saturday Oct 7 Noon to 4 p.m., Staff of Life, 906 East Lake Ave., Watsonville taff of Life Natural Foods in Watsonville will host the 2nd Annual Harvest Festival. Meet farmers and sample products from the Central Coast. Sample food and wellness products from Staff of Life. Enjoy free music, dancing, children’s activities and more. Beer and wine tasting for $5 to support local nonprofits and food for purchase. Admission is free. ••• Capitola Village Halloween Parade Sunday October 29 2 p.m., Capitola Village on Capitola Ave. To Esplanade Park. ress up for the annual Capitola Village Halloween Parade! Parade will be led by a Central Fire engine with music from the Soquel High Band. Line up begins at 1:30 p.m. in the lower Beach & Village Parking Lot 2 behind the Capitola Police Department. Parade begins promptly at 2 pm. Parade will head down Capitola Avenue, wind through Capitola Village to the Esplanade, ending at Esplanade Park where trick-or-treat bags will await. Kids can trick-or-treat at participating Capitola Village shops afterward. Hosted by the Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Capitola Village. Information: capitolachamber.com
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CALIFORNIA NEWS
Fentanyl, 485,000 Fake Oxycodone Pills, Seized in Fresno County O n Sept. 15, California Attorney General Rob Bonta and the California Highway Patrol announced a joint operation in Fresno County resulting in the felony arrest of a suspect and the seizure of more than 150 pounds of narcotics, including 485,000 fentanyl pills disguised as oxycodone and 45 pounds of cocaine. The arrest is the result of a traffic stop on Sept. 8 by a CHP officer and subsequent investigation by the California Department of Justice. The suspect was booked into the Fresno County Jail
on charges of possession of cocaine and fentanyl for sale, and the transportation of cocaine and fentanyl across noncontiguous counties. The case will be prosecuted by the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office. Every defendant is presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty. Bonta said he was grateful to partners at the California Highway Patrol. “Whether through the seizure of illicit fentanyl through our ongoing enforcement efforts or by bringing California billions of dollars through our lawsuits and investigative efforts to hold the opioid industry accountable, the California Department of Justice is all-in when it comes to protecting California families from the dangers of fentanyl,” Bonta said. “There are countless lives being saved as a result of their important and difficult work.” “Working with our law enforcement partners throughout the state is critical to the success in our mission of removing illegal narcotics from our streets,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. The High Impact Investigation Team is a California DOJ Bureau of Investigation-led multiagency task force, federally funded through the national High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area program.
It is comprised of members from the California Department of Justice, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation-Special Services Unit, Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, Madera County Sheriff’s Office, Kings County Sheriff’s Office, Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, Fresno Police Department, Fresno County District Attorney’s Office, California Highway Patrol, and Federal Bureau of Investigation. n
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 efficiently 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 to Give ... Have Fun With ASF – Sponsor or Attend an Event. Give Today! – Immediately improve our kids here at home. Leave Your Legacy! – Leave a lasting impact on youth sports in your community. ASF P.O. Box 2405, Aptos, California 95001 For More Information: Paul Bailey: 831-818-0406 – Brent Chapman: 831-588-4822 501 (C) (3) Nonprofit #77-0345205
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / October 1st 2023 / 27
COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS
Have a virtual or live event you want to promote? Send your information to info@cyber-times.com by October 9
ONGOING EVENTS
On Display Oct. 5 thru Oct. 31 BIG CREEK SCHOOL GARDEN GRANT Big Creek Lumber will again offer the School Garden BIRDS BUILDING BRIDGES Grant Program for 2024. Curb Gallery, 424 NW 12th Avenue, Portland, Oregon Requirements: Twelve redwood garden bed kits will be awarded, then to office, make endorsements in local races, and work Judy Gittelsohn, owner of Studio G in Watsonville, and Leith delivered to schools in early spring. Completed applica- with officeholders to be accountable to Democratic values. • Any high school senior who is a citizen of the Macfarlane, best friends Members are: District 1, Keith Gudger, Joe Hall, United States is eligible. Permanent legal resident tions must be returned to a Big Creek Lumber yard in since the first day of high status does not qualify. person by Oct. 31. Eligible schools will be entered in a Edward Estrada, Tony Russomanno, Adam Spickler, school in 1971, will have District 2, Rachel Williams, Rene Bloch, Adele Gardner, • Applicants need not be related to a member of the Elks. drawing and two schools will be selected in the vicinity their work featured at Gigi Keibert, District 3, Akin Babatola, Cyndi Dawson, • College students are not eligible. of each yard at random. Curb Gallery in, Portland, Stacey Falls, Diana Alfaro, Cynthia Mathews, District 4, • Applicants will be judged on scholarship, Redwood is bug- and rot-resistant. Oregon. Jenni Veitch-Olson, Celeste Gutierrez, District 5, Gwen leadership, and financial need. Recipient schools may reapply after two years. Find The display is called The Adoration of the Mystic Chiaramonte, Glenn Glazer, Linda Kerner, Rae SpencerGet more in-depth information at www.elks.org/enf/scholars/ applications at bigcreeklumber.com/gardenbedgrants Birds Building Bridges. Scapegoat • Judy Gittelsohn Hill, Coco Raner-Walter. mvs/cfm. Deadline to apply is Nov. 13. Click “About”. On the drop down menu, select There will be an artist Elections are administered by the county clerk’s “Building our Communities”. Applications also are at reception on Thursday, Oct. 5, 5-9 p.m. COUNTY FAIR BOARD MEETINGS the Big Creek lumber yards in Santa Cruz, Watsonville, office, where nomination forms will be available beginning Sept. 29. 1:30 p.m., SC County Fairgrounds, 2601 E. Lake Ave., Atwater, Half Moon Bay, Paso Robles, and Vallejo. Mondays 2023 Garden Grant Winners: Brook Knoll Elementary For information: www.cruzdemocrats.org or www.votescount. Watsonville us, or email agoldenk@gmail.com or info@votescount.us. Here are the remaining County Fair Board meeting dates BRIDGE CLUB in Scotts Valley, DeLaveaga Elementary in Santa Cruz, 10:30 a.m.-Noon, Capitola Branch Library, 2005 Wharf Road in 2023. Each meeting takes place on a Tuesday: Alianza Charter School, Calabasas Elementary and H. The Capitola Branch Library will host Bridge Club HEY CHILI CHEFS! Oct. 24, and Dec. 5. A. Hyde Elementary in Watsonville, Coastside Preschool sessions on Mondays (except holidays). Meetings also take place on Zoom. Join the competition Saturday, Oct. 28 at the Santa in Half Moon Bay, Ortega Elementary in Pacifica, Paso Everyone is welcomed from beginners to social Cruz Beach Boardwalk. For agendas, see santacruzcountyfair.com. Robles Co-Op Preschool, Peggy Heller Elementary in players. Make new friends and sharpen your mind. Enjoy a day at the beach while cookin’ up a pot of Atwater, San Benito Elementary in Atascadero. Bridge Club is a partnership between Santa Cruz DANTE ALIGHIERI SOCIETY: ITALIAN FILM SERIES your best chili! Amateur and professional divisions. County Parks and Santa Cruz Public Libraries. Exposure for restaurants and businesses. 7-9:30 p.m., Cabrillo College’s VAPA building 1000, Art RUN FOR CENTRAL COMMITTEE Register at scparks.com or in-person the day of the event. Fun atmosphere and camaraderie. $3,000 in cash and History Rm 1001, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos The Santa Cruz County Democratic Central Committee prizes. Free Boardwalk tickets & T-shirts for each team. Dante Alighieri Society of Santa Cruz is sponsoring invites registered county Democrats to appear on the Second Friday Each Month a Fall Italian Film Series: New Horizons | Nuovi Deadline to enter is Oct. 20. Sign up at https://beachMarch ballot and run for a seat on the committee. Orizzonti, which started Sept. 10 at Cabrillo College NEW BRIDGE GROUP By state law, the Santa Cruz County Democratic Central boardwalk.com/chili-cook-off/ Begins Oct. 13 This New Horizons film series is a collection of Committee is the governing body of the county Demo10:30-Noon, La Selva Beach Public Library, 316 Estrella Ave. ELKS SCHOLARSHIPS FOR SENIORS recently released Italian films so new they have not yet cratic Party. It also serves as the local volunteer arm of the Come for bridge on the second Friday of each month made it to United States theaters or streaming. The Santa Cruz Elks Lodge sponsors six scholarships state and national parties. Members help elect Democrats These films deal with characters at different stages from 10:30 to noon at the La Selva Beach library. (three young men and three young women). First meeting is Oct. 13. Bette Harken, Master Bridge of life leaving home to explore new horizons and player, will give an introduction for beginners. diverse parts of Italy, including the Friuli hills, the forests of Sicily, and roadways traversing the peninsula. Call La Selva Library to reserve your seat: 831-427-7710. Logan Walker, film lecturer from UC Santa Cruz & director of programming, Santa Cruz Film Festival, will DATED EVENTS introduce and field questions about all films, which are Sunday October 1 in Italian with English subtitles. Free admission; Limited seating; first come, first CUBAN JAZZ PIANIST JORGE LUIS PACHECO served. Cash donations welcome. 4 p.m., Peace United Church of Christ, 900 High St. Santa Cruz Remaining viewings: Distinguished Arts presents Cuban jazz pianist Jorge Sunday, Oct. 8 — The Pioneers (I pionieri). Directed Luis Pacheco with his Cuban Jazz Trio in their West by Luca Scivoletto, 2022. (86 mins) Coast debut at Peace United Church of Christ. Sunday, Nov. 12 — Olimpia’s Way (Acqua e anice). Hailing from Havana, pianist Jorge Luis Pacheco is Directed by Corrado Ceron, 2022. (109 mins) a fiery young pianist, singer and composer. His trio For more about the films, visit: www.dantesantacruz.com/events includes Gerson Lazo-Quiroga on bass and drummer Reiner Mendoza. STATE OPENS SEACLIFF STATE BEACH SURVEY Tickets are $40 at: www.distinguishedartists.org California State Parks is seeking public input on the future of Seacliff and New Brighton State Beaches Wednesday October 4 to help protect them from sea level rise and extreme FLY FISHING FILM TOUR weather. In the initial phase, members of the public 6 p.m., Aptos Grange, 2555 Mar Vista Drive are invited to participate in an online survey to share information on preferred recreational activities and what The Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club will host the second phase of the Fly Fishing Film Tour at the Aptos Grange. they value when visiting the parks. Phase 2 of the 2023 show will feature national and ‘TEN’ SANTA CRUZ ARTISTS The historic storms that impacted California’s international fly fishing in waters ranging from quiet communities this past winter and damaged Seacliff Sunday October 15 freshwater streams to thunderous ocean surf. and New Brighton State Beaches are evidence of a Experience Australia, Massachusetts, Mexico, Cuba, Ongoing thru Nov. 5 • Radius Gallery, 1060 River St., Santa Cruz • M.K. Contemporary, 703 Front St., Santa Cruz new reality the state’s shoreline faces because of Radius Gallery and M.K. Contemporary Art present “Ten,” an exhibition featuring 10 Santa Cruz artists of climate change, parks leaders say. As State Parks staff and the Eastern Sierras. Come for the action and camaraderie, enjoy the door prizes and raffle. national and international acclaim in their hometown through Nov. 5. develops plans to restore services and amenities for No admission fee. Public invited. Artist talks are scheduled at 3 p.m. Oct. 22 & 29. visitors, providing climate-resilient facilities will be a For information, visit: santacruzflyfishing.org Featured artists: Thomas Campbell, R.R. Jones, Linda Christensen, Kajahl, Tim Craighead, Robin Kandel, critical consideration. Marc D’Estout, Moto Ohtake, Kalie Granier, Beverly Rayner. The public can participate in the online survey at The two galleries showcase a diverse array of extraordinary artists who have left an indelible mark on the Friday October 6 SurveyMonkey.com/r/ZZZH2BG. global art stage. The exhibit is strategically scheduled during Open Studios season the first three weeks of Information on future public engagement opporTALKING ABOUT BANNED BOOKS October, to attract visitors from beyond the city limits and boost the creative economy. tunities and project updates will be shared on social 3-5 p.m., Downtown Library, 224 Church St., Santa Cruz “Ten” is curated by Ann Hazels, director of Radius Gallery, and Melissa Kreisa, director of M.K. Contemmedia and by email. Sign up at parks.ca.gov/Seacliff. Banned Books Week is back, and it’s time to celebrate porary Art. To date, the fund has raised $98,558 from 184 donors across the freedom to read. Photo: Linda Christensen’s Form & Function the country. Santa Cruz Public Libraries, the Diversity Center 28 / October 1st 2023 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
COMMUNITY CALENDAR experience to the discussion. Expect to see a treasure of Santa Cruz, the County Office of Education, and trove of images from old Chinatown. UC Santa Cruz will host a thought-provoking panel Copies of “Chinese Gold” will be available for discussion at the Downtown Branch Library purchase in both English and Chinese. The conversation will be guided by local author and journalist Wallace Baine. Panelists include: Faris English copies of the book are at the Santa Cruz Public Libraries: Sabbah, superintendent of the County Office of https://catalog.santacruzpl.org/polaris/view.aspx?title=chinese gold Education, Cynthia Lewis, associate dean of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice for the Division of Social Sunday October 8 Sciences, UCSC, Angela Gates, librarian at Harbor High AN EVENING WITH FRIENDS School, Zak Keith, UC Santa Cruz PhD candidate and 4:30 – 8:30 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Dr, Aptos facilitator at The Diversity Center Youth Program. Friends of Hospice hosts An Evening with Friends For four decades, this annual event has united the literary community in support of the right to explore and 4:30 — 8:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 8 at Seascape express ideas, even those that may challenge the status Golf Club, Aptos. This is a fun social event with music, dinner, live and silent auctions, and a photo quo or be deemed controversial. booth that supports Hospice of Santa Cruz County To participate, register at https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/ community programs including music therapy, pet calendar/SCPL/BBW23 companions, volunteer visitors, and grief support — including a weekend camp for grieving children. Saturday October 7 Hospice also supports We Honor Veterans, care CHINESE GOLD HISTORY for children with life-limiting illness, and offers 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 418 Project, 155 S. River St., Santa Cruz transitional and palliative care. Embark on an immersive journey through ChineseTickets are $150 per person or $125 per person for American history in Santa Cruz as the Santa Cruz Public a reserved table of 10 and include a delicious buffet Libraries, Flex Kids Culture Exchange, and the 418 dinner and complimentary wine and bubbles. Tickets Project present the “Chinese Gold Multimedia Book are at: anevening23.bpt.me. Discussion.” Info, email eveningwithfriends@hospicesantacruz.org; call 831-713-6083 Author Sandy Lydon, historian emeritus at Cabrillo College, renowned for his work in Asian and AsianThursday October 12 American history, will be in conversation with George JOB FAIR Ow, Chinese-American businessman, philanthropist, and Santa Cruz native, as they delve into the captivating 4-6 p.m., Coconut Grove, 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz Santa Cruz County’s largest job fair will take place at narrative of “Chinese Gold,” published in 1985, a ground-breaking local history that uncovers the stories the Coconut Grove. Free resume review. Free admission for job-seekers. of Chinese-Americans in Santa Cruz. Free parking. Artist-educator Rui Li will bring a multimedia
Companies are hiring for a broad range of positions. get breakfast, lunch & snacks, and have their name • Entry- or mid-level positions for recent graduates entered into a drawing for free family passes to Gilroy and young alumni Gardens • High-level careers for applicants with leadership For information call the PVUSD Family Engagement Team: and experience 831-786-2365. • Internships & Volunteer opportunities for students Event made possible by Workforce Santa Cruz County. Sunday October 15 More information and register your company at https://acces- WAHINE 10K/6K TO CELEBRATE s2employment.com/ WOMEN WITH ALOHA
Aloha from the second annual Wahine10k/6k, taking place, in Capitola and Santa Cruz. The Wahine is a run or walk event, featuring a 10k (6.2 miles) and 6k (3.8 miles) distance. Both coastal courses are incredibly scenic, traveling out and back from the heart of Capitola Village, through Pleasure Point, and along East Cliff to the 6k turnaround at Rockview Drive and the 10k turn around at 14th Avenue. The Wahine offers plenty of Hawaiian-themed entertainment including live ukulele music at Saturday October 14 Pleasure Point and live hula performances taking PVUSD PARENT CONFERENCE place along the race route and at the beachfront 8 a.m.-3 p.m., EA Hall Middle School, 201 Brewington Ave., finish line celebration in Capitola Village. All Watsonville, participants receive a Hawaiian-inspired event shirt Rise & Shine, it’s back to school time! and a finisher necklace made with a leather cord PVUSD presents a full day parent/caregiver and wooden pendant, both featuring the Wahine conference at EA Hall Middle School, offering ideas and surfboard logo. information on how to support your child early on in this The Wahine celebration is open to both men and school year. There will be: women. • Informative workshop sessions such as Life Lab The Wahine 10k/6k is the last event of the planting, making salsa, reading tips and transition to Surfer’s Path event series that includes the February middle school Surfer’s Path 10k/5k and the April Surfer’s Path Half • Community Resource Fair and more! Marathon. • Breakfast, lunch & childcare for ages 3-11. All Visit www.runsurferspath.com to register and for complete kids will: Participate in fun & engaging activities, event information. Surfs UP! n ASSEMBLY MEMBER DAWN ADDIS TO SPEAK 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Dr, Aptos Join the Aptos Chamber of Commerce for a luncheon meeting at Seascape Golf Club with guest speaker Dawn Addis, D-Morro Bay. The 30th district includes Aptos. Reservations required; no walk-ins. Price: $35 per person. RSVP information to be announced.
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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / October 1st 2023 / 29
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Artificial Intelligence Use Policy for County Employees
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ecently, the Board of Supervisors unanimously supported an employee policy governing use of artificial intelligence systems. In June, I brought forward a proposal to direct the County Administrative Office to create and implement an adaptable policy for the responsible and ethical use of AI systems by County employees. The goal was to build frameworks around issues such as data privacy, cybersecurity, bias, and transparency — while recognizing that these tools are both here to stay and also important elements of improving customer service. Our county is the first in the region (and one of the first in the country) to create such a policy and the National Association of Counties and California State Association of Counties have reached out to use the policy as a model for the creation of policies for other local governments. Here is an overview of the policy and the process used to create the policy. Why is a policy necessary? urrently, there are no state or federal frameworks for how public entities should deal with AI and, in particular, employee use of AI. While both the state and federal governments have begun the process of researching regulatory frameworks, it was prudent at the local level to put something in place that matched the needs and values of our community while also helping inform the discussion at the state and federal levels. Late last year, with the release of the latest iteration of ChatGPT, it became clear that the evolution in the field had reached a point where a chatbot (a software application that attempts to mimic human conversation through
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By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District
text or voice) was fully capable of providing detailed, coherent responses to complex questions across a wide variety of subjects. As a result, many County employees began using ChatGPT and Google Bard (over 33,000 sessions since May) to help with a number of functions - but there were no frameworks in place to help guide the ethical and appropriate usage. County Policy Development n June, my Board item (with unanimous support of the Board) directed that the County create an adaptable policy with a proposed set of guidelines for the responsible and ethical use of AI systems by County employees that will address issues such as data privacy, cybersecurity, bias, and transparency. The goal was to harness this transformative technology while creating guardrails on its usage. In essence, not to stifle innovation or its usage but to consider both the opportunities and risks posed by this new technology. County staff created an internal working group and also met with outside experts in AI (many that live locally and work in the field) to advise in the development in the first iteration an AI policy. Additionally, steps were taken to implement trainings for County staff, and discussions over how to best manage rapid integration of AI features within software products the County purchases. What are the key elements of the policy? reating AI policy is iterative and this is intended to be a living (and evolving) document. The policy emphasizes security, fairness, transparency, and continual learning in the use of rapidly evolving AI technologies and outlines principles and protocols for the responsible and
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ethical use of generative AI tools by County employees, contractors, and third parties. Principles for Responsible Generative AI Tools Use include: • Data Privacy and Security: Comply with all data privacy and security standards to protect Personally Identifiable Information, Protected Health Information, or any sensitive data in generative AI prompts. Treat AI prompts as if they were publicly visible online to anyone and treat AI prompts, data inputs, and outputs as if they are subject to the Freedom of Information Act and Public Records Act. • Informed Consent: Members of the public should be informed when they are interacting with an AI tool and have an “opt out” alternative to using AI tools available. • Responsible Use: AI tools and systems shall only be used in an ethical manner. • Continuous Learning: When County provided AI training becomes available, employees should participate to ensure appropriate use of AI, data handling, and adherence to County policies on a continuing basis. • Avoiding Bias: AI tools can create biased outputs. When using AI tools, develop AI usage practices that minimize bias and regularly review outputs to ensure fairness and accuracy, as you do for all content. • Decision Making: Do not use AI tools to make impactful decisions. Be conscientious about how AI tools are used to inform decision making processes. • Accuracy: AI tools can generate inaccurate and false information. Take time to review and verify AI-generated content to ensure quality, accuracy, and compliance with County guidelines and policies.
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• Transparency: The use of AI systems should be explainable to those who use and are affected by their use. To ensure transparency when using this rapidly evolving technology, indicate when Generative AI contributed substantially to the development of a work product. • Accountability: Employees are solely responsible for ensuring the quality, accuracy, and regulatory compliance of all AI generated content utilized in the scope of employment. The County will regularly monitor and evaluate approved AI products to ensure they are meeting security and risk management criteria. The policy will continue to evolve with regular check-ins as the technology and needs change. In the next few months, County staff will look to develop procurement guidance for vetting and selecting AI systems, identify existing and future County software systems that embed AI technologies and take necessary steps to understand how AI related risks are addressed by vendors, roll out staff training opportunities and identify opportunities for continuous process improvement projects where AI use cases can improve services, overall efficiencies, and quality. n ••• As always, I appreciate hearing your thoughts. Feel free to contact me at 454-2200. I’m also maintaining regular updates on social media at www.facebook.com/supervisorfriend
County staff created an internal working group and also met with outside experts in AI (many that live locally and work in the field) to advise in the development in the first iteration an AI policy.
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alu (#A296489) is a 1-year-old neutered male pittie mix that came to the Shelter as an owner surrender due to some housing issues. Here is what we know about him: • has lived with children under 12 years old, man and women in his previous home • lived with another dog of the same age (his littermate!) • favorite activity was walking in the park • favorite toys are balls • has been friendly at the vet • has been around cats and chases them • knows “sit” • is calm when riding in the car Balu is recommended to go to a home that will provide daily mental and physical stimulation. He walks nicely on a body harness but may pull when excited and/or eager to get somewhere. A guardian that can commit to positive reinforcement based training is recommended to help teach Balu life skills and manners. Balu may enjoy a playful dog friend in the home. Kids may be A-ok but Balu can be exuberant in his affection and jump up so sturdy children may be best. Balu is recommended for a home without kitties or small animals as his previous guardian observed some prey drive around those animals. n ••• The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is full of adoptable animals. Fostering animals is an awesome way to improve a Shelter animal’s life and fill your home with love and fun! If you are interested in fostering any kind of animal please email jillian.ganley@ santacruzcounty.us. You can also Follow SCCAS on Instagram and/or Facebook to stay up-to-date on shelter news and where to find adoptable pets around town at breweries, stores and events. ••• 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
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