Aptos Times January 15th 2013 by Times Publishing Group, Inc.

Serving Our Community For 22 Years • Aptos, La Selva Beach, Corralitos, Freedom & Watsonville

January 15 2013 • Vol 22 No. 2 • www.tpgonlinedaily.com Supervisor’s Staff Comes Prepared

Usually people work their way UP the political ladder but Supervisor Zach Friend has found two extremely experienced political professionals for his staff whose experience was gained at the state and national level. Allyson Violante worked for former Assemblyman, ... Full Story Page 12

Colin Kaepernick — The Real Deal!

“You armed me with strength for battle: you humbled my adversaries before me.” Psalm 18:39. “Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear though a war break out against me, even then I will be confident.” Psalm 27:3 These are the tattoos on the arms of 49er quarterback, Colin Kaepernick — who “went in battle” in his first ... Full Story Page 14

2013 Valentine’s Day Poetry Contest

Whether it’s the memory of Love, Love that has stood the test of time, or the rush of young Love, that is what we celebrate each February 14, Valentine’s Day. What could be more romantic than to express through your own poetry about that Love for your loved one — and for our readers — to read. So it’s time to send us your poem about those tender feelings and romantic thoughts to our annual poetry contest. Full Story on page 7

A Sanctuary for Horses Founder Lynn Hummer said, “Since its opening Pregnant Mare Rescue has cared for 90 horses who otherwise would have been destroyed or made into dog food. In spite of some of the terrible conditions they had to survive, we have had to put down only two and just six were too damaged to be adopted. The rest have been adopted by caring owners.” Lynn’s dream is to find 20-30 acres to lease or own for the horses as pasture. Today PMR is on just 3 acres.

She said that it takes 30 volunteers and one trainer to care for the six mares and their foals, the maximum number that they have room for. The care and feeding of the horses including veterinary care, amounts to about $100 thousand per year. But because the cost of feed and medicine keeps going up, her primary task is to raise funds to keep PMR going though donations and fundraisers. PMR is primarily a volunteer organization and they welcome all those ... continued on page 4

‘Slight of Hand’ Exhibit Opens at Pajaro Valley Arts Council

January 16 - February 17 • Opening Reception Sunday January 20, from 2 – 4 p.m.

his exciting exhibit features 400 small format pieces by 54 fabulous fine artists, who have been invited because like magicians, their artwork shows mystery, mastery and outstanding dexterity! Their work looks like legerdemain, effortless, MAGIC! This exhibit is stunning! Each artist is showing a cohesive grouping/series of work. There is a tremendous variety in terms of subject matter, media, color, and texture. You will see painting, printmaking, photography, mixed media, sculpture, ceramic, glass, mosaic, and fiber. Each room of the gallery has a personality, and we know you will enjoy the variety of styles represented. We are doing something completely “off the wall” for PVAC, in that we are

letting our patrons take pieces home as they are purchased. Artists will renew their grouping throughout the show, so visit more than once to see how the exhibit changes. All pieces will be for sale, and most pieces are $300 and under. You will have the opportunity to win, via raffle, some valuable, terrific pieces of art donated by the Board and Gallery Committee of PVAC. Visit during our new, extended gallery hours WednesdaySunday from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Participating Artists: Efren Adalem • Wendy Aikin • Jody Alexander • Barbara Bailey-Porter • Steve Barisof • Bonnie Barisof • Mike Beebe • Jean Beebe • Hildy Bernstein • Carol Bowie • Glen Carter • Judy Cooper • Hilary Couch • Melita Cowie • Barbara • Downs • Mary-Jo Dunn-

Ruiz • Fanne Fernow • Janet Fine • Marie Gabrielle • Jim Grant • Connie Grant • Jane Gregorius • Karen Hansen • Kristin Hayward • Hedwig Heerschop • Stephanie Heit • Diana Henrichsen • Bridget Henry • Lisa Hochstein • Susan Hoisington • Susana Howe • Nancy Howells • Liz Lyons Friedman • Mary Manfre • Catharina Marlowe • Stephanie Martin • Susan Matulich • Chris Miroyan • Bev Moore • Marilou Moschetti • Mary Neater • Bruce Nicholson • Jim Potterton • David Reese • Sally-Christine Rodgers • Beth Shields Judy Stabile • Susanna Waddell • Darnell Walton • Lynda Watson • Mary Weeks • Roberta Lee Woods • Daniella Woolf • Larry Worley • Pat Worley n ••• Gallery Hours: Wed.-Sun. 11 – 4

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No. 2 Volume 22

2 3 6 7 8 9 12 13 16 17 18 20 22 23 24 25 27 30

Table of Contents

Cover

A Sanctuary for Horses by Noel Smith

Community News

‘Slight of Hand’ Exhibit Opens at Pajaro Valley Arts Council January 16 - February 17 Pajaro Valley Quilt Association35th Annual Quilt Show • Santa Cruz Performing Arts Enrollment Period • $64 Million in New Transportation Funding Approved • Sixth Annual Santa Cruz Chocolate Festival Alex Scott Receives Gold Award – Girl Scout’s Round Pen Project for Pregnant Mare Rescue is Success 2013 Valentine’s Day Poetry Contest by Noel Smith Sanctuary Docent Program Starts Soon • Refurbished Collector’s Corner Opens at Santa Cruz Goodwill Dr. Diane Wittry Leads Santa Cruz County Symphony for ‘Around the World’ Concert Supervisor’s Staff Comes Prepared – Second District has Experienced Duo in Violante and Mulhearn By Noel Smith Pinnacles to Become National Park CHP Encourages Teens to ‘Start Smart’ and Stay Safe ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ at Mount Madonna Defensa de Mujeres Benefit • Caregiver Training Series Taking Place at Cabrillo College Happy New Year — scwd2 Desalination Program Monthly Update ‘About Face’ — A study of Personality and Character • Community Foundation Welcomes New Members January Wildlife Calendar Winter Reskilling Expo • Stone Appointed Chair of Assembly Human Services Committee Animal Shelter Officer Rescues Cat DFG Becomes CDFW • California Gasoline and Diesel Demand Fell in Third Quarter Setting up a home office that fuels productivity

Private School Open House

10 Nonfiction Reading is Important By Connie Matthiessen

Local Sports

14 Colin Kaepernick – The Real Deal! Story and Photos By Dave Love 21 Aptos High School Scoreboard

Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28 & 29 Monthly Horoscope • Page 29 - Your January Horoscope Annabel Burton, Astrologer©

Featured Columnists

19 Work in Progress by Camille Smith – Be “Neo” – Swallow the Red Pill 26 The Book Bag by Robert Francis – Bears, bears and more bears… 31 Pet Potpourri by River May – Fleas – The Year Round Pest

SPCA Featured Pet • Page 31 – Are you Hungry for Latke’s

Love?

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Pajaro Valley Quilt Association 35th Annual Quilt Show 2013 PVQA Quilt Show Think Global, Quilt Local ebruary 23-24, Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Avenue Watsonville, Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Exhibiting over 400 quilts, dolls and wearables. Special exhibits include: • Black and White Quilts, • Young People’s Quilts, and Local Landscape Fabric Art. Other attractions include: Featured Speaker: Gloria Loughman Gloria Loughman • Fashion Show - Saturday, 12:30 • Live Auction - Sunday 12:30 • Ongoing Demos • Bed Turning • Over 40 vendors • Flea Market • Certified Quilt Appraiser Ample Free Parking! Lunch and snacks available to purchase, provided by Eric’s Deli. Coffee and espresso drinks Quilt by available to purchase, Gloria Loughman provided by Pacific Coffee Roasting Co. For more information, go to pvqa.org and click on the Quilt Show tab. ••• Santa Cruz Performing Arts Enrollment Period anta Cruz Performing Arts is currently enrolling kids for 2013 classes in singing, acting, and dancing, as well as for our main stage production of the Wizard of Oz! Beginning in April, students can learn the basics of the acting and musicaltheatre while performing scenes and songs from their favorite movies and musicals. Enroll for two classes and save on the second. On January 20th rehearsals begin for our production of the beloved classic, the Wizard of Oz. All who audition will be cast. Sibling discounts available. Students can sign-up for classes in the performing arts or enroll for the Wizard of Oz by visiting our website at SantaCruzPerformingArts.org, or by contacting Artistic Director, Ben Jammin at area code 831 –

334-2121. Enroll today! Website: http:// santacruzperformingarts.org/ Santa Cruz Performing Arts: helping to bring affordable performing arts training to Santa Cruz County! ••• $64 Million in New Transportation Funding Approved SAN LUIS OBISPO — Continuing the push to rebuild California’s infrastructure, the California Transportation Commission (CTC) has allocated $64 million to 43 projects that will reduce traffic congestion and repair highways, local streets, and bridges. “We are putting transportation dollars to work supporting jobs and making improvements that will benefit Californians now and for decades to come,” said Caltrans Director Malcolm Dougherty. The allocations include $42 million from Proposition 1B, a transportation bond approved by voters in 2006. In total, approximately $14.7 billion in Proposition 1B funds have been distributed statewide. The remaining allocations ($22 million) came from assorted transportation accounts funded by state and federal dollars. Among the projects that received funding today were: $1.3 million to construct new and upgrade existing guard railing, improve crash cushions and improve drainage to reduce the number and severity of traffic collisions at 31differnt locations along Hwy. 1 in the City of Santa Cruz from Laguna Road to the Waddell Creek Bridge. ••• Sixth Annual Santa Cruz Chocolate Festival Sunday, Jan. 20, at the Cocoanut Grove njoy chocolate of all types at the 6th annual Santa Cruz Chocolate Festival-Sunday, January 20, 2013 from 1-4 PM at the Cocoanut Grove on the Beach Boardwalk. Sponsored by the UCSC Women’s Club, proceeds support re-entry student scholarships at UCSC. Enjoy the silent auction, wine tasting, the Santa Cruz Derby Girls, and cupcake decorating. Mayor Hilary Bryant will award the new Chocoholic of the Year, so now is the time to nominate your favorite chocoholic at Santacruzchocolatefestival.org

“Briefs” page 8

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publisher Patrice Edwards publisher’s assistant Lindsay Nelson editor Noel Smith contributing writers Noel Smith, Connie Matthiessen, Dave Love, Annabel Burton, Camille Smith, Robert Francis, River May layout Michael Oppenheimer, Mike Lyon graphic artists Mike Lyon, Michael Oppenheimer production coordinator Sandra Gonzalez advertising sales Don Beaumont, Sadie Wittkins, Jackie Hinds office coordinator Cathe Race distribution Bill Pooley, Jana Mears

Times Publishing Group, Inc. 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 The Times Publishing Group, Inc., publishers of the Aptos times, a bi-weekly publication, the Capitola Times and Scotts Valley Times, each printed monthly, Coastal Weddings Magazine, printed twice annually and Coastal Home and Garden Magazine, printed twice annually, is owned by Patrice Edwards. Entire contents ©2013. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission 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 Opinions/Letters: editorial@cyber-times.com Calendar Listings: www.tpgonlinedaily.com Graphics Department: graphics@cyber-times.com Billing Inquiries: cathe@cyber-times.com Classified Sales: assistant@cyber-times.com Production: production@cyber-times.com CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE AT: www.tpgonlinedaily.com distribution 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

Alex Scott Receives Gold Award

Girl Scout’s Round Pen Project for Pregnant Mare Rescue is Success

urf City Girl Scout Troop 11004 announced that Alex Scott has earned the Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest recognition for achievement in Girl Scouting. Alex, daughter of Matt and Kirsti Scott of Aptos, is a graduate of York School in Monterey and is currently a freshman at Stanford University. Alex built a round pen designed for gentling mares and training foals at Pregnant Mare Rescue in Watsonville for her Gold Award

project. Alex received her Gold Award on January 4, 2013 at a grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony at the sanctuary, celebrated by the Santa Cruz Area Chamber of Commerce. Alex Scott The 25 people at the ceremony included Pregnant Mare Rescue volunteers plus: Rose Ann

Woolpert, Graniterock • Keith Severson, Graniterock • Lowell Hurst, Watsonville City Council • Dana Bolotin, Girl Scouts California’s Central Coast Regional Director Member Services, Santa Cruz, San Benito & Monterey Counties • Jennifer Dodd, Membership Manager, Monterey County • Duf Fischer, Santa Cruz Area Chamber of Commerce. “Gold Award” page 6

“PMR” from page 1 who wish to participate in offering their help to our horses. Experience is NOT a requirement however volunteers must be at least 15 years of age. Minors under the age of 15 are welcome but MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times when at PMR. Their dedicated volunteers help make PMR a safe haven for their equine residents while providing a rewarding and educational experience. PMR is also eligible for your community service. Pregnant Mare Rescue was founded in May of 2006 and is a 501(c) 3 not for profit organization. PMR’s goal is to save as many pregnant mares from abusive situations, feed lots, eventual slaughter, and to provide an alternative for owners who cannot care for their pregnant horse to surrender them to our care. It is PMR’s mission to provide a safe natural environment for mares to foal in peace, and to nurture and nurse their young. It is their intent to gentle the mares, imprint and gentle the foals, and prepare them for new loving homes. The Wonder of Horses, What Can Teach Us? Pregnant Mare Rescue is proud to be one the few local animal rescues that allow the kids to come and learn. With a guardian, kids ages 7 -18 are welcome to come and experience horses in new and exciting way. All activities are done on the ground with no mounting or riding. PMR teaches that children are the voice of tomorrow for these wonderful animals. It’s an important life changing opportunity to learn about what they can teach us. Children, along with their partner will experience the magic and wonder of horses. Take the tour, meet the horses and learn:

4 / January 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

A young rescued mare makes some new friends. Why do I have to find my quiet place? Why are horses ears so special? Do horses have feelings? What is body language? How do I approach a horse? How do horses know when to feel safe? • Why do horses need rescuing? It’s the opportunity to discover the answers to these questions and more. Every horse has a story to tell. Come enjoy their company and see if they don’t have a story for you! n ••• Pregnant Mare Rescue A Temporary Sanctuary for the Mare and Foal — A ‘No Kill’ Sanctuary ur goal is to save as many pregnant mares from abuse, neglect and a trip to the Slaughterhouse. Our mission to provide a safe natural environment for mares to foal in peace, and to nurture and nurse their young. • • • • • •

Our intent to gentle the mares, imprint and gentle the foals, and prepare them for new loving homes. We live by the Natural Horsemanship Philosophy of harmony, understanding and respecting the spirit of the animal, not intimidation, coercion and pain. Our “Umbrella Policy of Protection” tracks each horse for life. We feel it is the ONLY way to keep horses safe for life. We encourage horse owners to love and keep their equine for life, just as you would your other pets. Pregnant Mare Rescue, Inc., A notfor-profit organization registered as a 501(c)3 Public Charity in the State of California, Federal Tax ID Number: #26-0484620 Pregnant Mare Rescue, Inc., PO Box 962 Aptos, CA 95001. Phone: 408-540-8568. Email: pmrhorses@pregnantmarerescue.com Website: www.pregnantmarerescue.org

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 15th 2012 / 5

“Gold Award” from page 4 Alex, a member of Girl Scout Surf City Troop 11004 for 11 years, and was supported in her Gold Award effort by troop leader Chris Knudsen and her project advisor, Lynn Hummer of Pregnant Mare Rescue. Pregnant Mare Rescue (http://www. pregnantmarerescue.org/) is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to rescuing abandoned horses and giving them a chance at a new life. However, PMR can only accommodate six horses and their foals at a time. Alex completed the round pen project to create an enclosure to help train the new foals and their mares getting them ready for adoption. The Gold Award was established in 1980 as Girl Scouting’s highest award. The Scout must plan and execute a community service project spanning a period of at least four months and 80 hours. Final application for the Gold Award is made to the council upon completion of the service project. Alex is currently taking courses in animal behavior and physiology, history, and art at Stanford, and she rides on the Stanford Equestrian Team.

Alex Scott’s round pen at Pregnant Mare Rescue As the premier leadership experience for girls in the United States, Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. For more information visithttp:// www.girlscoutsccc.org/.

PMR founder Lynn Hummer said, “People have to give up their horses for a variety of reasons, often economic because of rising costs and/or lost income. If there’s nowhere for the horses to go, they end up at a slaughterhouse.” “Only places like Pregnant Mare Rescue can save the horses from these horrible places,” said Alex, “and by ensuring all the horses at the rescue are ready for adoption, we make sure they never have to fear slaughterhouses again. Horse rescues all over the country are fighting to stop the sale of perfectly sound horses to slaughterhouses and feedlots, and Pregnant Mare Rescue is proud to be a part of that movement.” The round pen project was made

possible by the generous support and donations of materials, services, volunteer time and money. To build the 55-foot diameter round pen, three tree stumps had to be removed. To prepare the area for construction, the entire top layer of soil had to be removed. The pen area was then graded and leveled and a roller was rented to flatten with a slight grade for rain and drainage. Then 176 tons of donated “fines” (finely crushed or powdered material) was trucked in followed by more grading and leveling, watering and final leveling. After the round pen 12” high kick boards were erected around the perimeter to hold sand in place, 25 tons of sand was spread as the final layer making the pen ready for use. Donations: GraniteRock donated the fines • Level 10 construction donated the plywood for stall upgrades and the round pen kick boards and all the “Olive Springs Sand” • Mike Kindscher of Morning Sun Ranch did the entire project using his own trucks and tractors at a hugely discounted rate • Scott Morgan helped clear trees and stumps. Project volunteers: Alex Scott, Alex Derrick, Lynn Hummer, Vaughn Marie, Mike Kindscher of Morning Sun Ranch, Pat and Natalie Morrissey of Level 10 Construction, Don Barrett of Granite Rock. Estimated Project hours: Alex Scott 80+ hrs • Mike Kindscher 60-80 hrs • Everyone else at least 8 hrs. Total = 188 hours (at least!) and the many Pregnant Mare Rescue volunteers that spend their time helping take care of the mares an foals. Total Cash Donations =$4,552.50 Granite Rock donation $1,624 • Level 10 Construction: Plywood $2,000 and Sand [Exact cost unknown] n

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Valentine’s Day Poetry Contest

It’s Time for the Annual Times Publishing Group, Inc Writing Competition By Noel Smith

hether it’s the memory of Love, Love that has stood the test of time, or the rush of young Love, that is what we celebrate each February 14, Valentine’s Day. What could be more romantic than to express through your own poetry about that Love for your loved one - and for our readers - to read. So it’s time to send us your poem about those tender feelings and romantic thoughts to our annual poetry contest. Times Publishing Group is sponsoring its 13th Times Publishing Valentine’s Day Poetry Contest to reward three local poets (and their sweethearts) with the ultimate in Valentine’s Day romance. It’s time for poets throughout our county to make public their feelings for those they love in celebration of Valentines Day and be one of our poetry contest winners. The 2012 Times Publishing Annual Valentine’s Day Poetry Contest drew poems from Watsonville to Boulder Creek and even

It’s time for poets throughout our county to make public their feelings for those they love in celebration of Valentines Day and be one our poetry contest winners.

from New York. Some were funny, some romantic, some touching. All were a joy to read! As usual, a winning poem was chosen for each of our three newspapers; the Aptos Times, Capitola Soquel Times, and Scotts Valley Times. Express your love – in 250 words or less – (see “Contest Rules” for complete details) and tell the world what makes your Valentine special! n ••• 2013 Poetry Contest Rules Please Read Carefully Write a poem about, or to your Valentine and send it to us. Only one poem per poet and no more than 250 words and 25 lines. Submit it via email to info@cyber-times.com with Poetry Contest in the subject line or mail

it to 9601 Soquel Dr, Aptos, CA 95003. Be sure to include your name, address, day and evening phone numbers, e-mail address, and for whom (fiancée, spouse, parent, child, lost love, etc.) your poem is written. Three First Place winning poems and three honorable mention poems will be selected by the Times Publishing editorial staff: from south county representing the Aptos Times; from Capitola/Soquel/Santa Cruz representing the Capitola Soquel Times and from Scotts Valley/San Lorenzo Valley representing the Scotts Valley Times. (Note: We welcome submissions from all readers living within Santa Cruz County.) The Aptos Times’ winning prize is a Valentine’s Day (Thursday, February 14, 2013) dinner for two at a local restaurant. All entries must be received by 5 pm on Wednesday, February 6, 2013. The winner will be notified on or before Friday, February 8. Please call us at 831/688-7549 if you have any questions. The winning poems will be published in the March 1 editions. ••• 2012 Winners Aptos Times – Tricia Contreras Capitola Soquel Times – Paul Vogt Scotts Valley Times – Jan Mennite Unconditional Love – Tricia Contreras I ever knew what “unconditional love” really meant until one day in 2011 when the doctors said “Cancer.” I dedicate this poem to my husband Eric, who showed me the most amazing gift – his love.

The Aptos Times’ winning prize is a Valentine’s Day (Thursday, February 14) dinner for two at a local restautant It’s true, life does flash before your eyes The day my life was turned around Opening my eyes, I barely remember the words “Ovarian cancer was found” Nothing felt real, I turned to my husband “I’m only forty, I said” As he held me, I tried to be strong But thoughts of death danced in my head I was angry, this was not enough time I had only been married two years How can I leave this man I love Who wipes away my tears On the bad days you gave me hope Always there to hold my hand Even when I lost all my hair Your love for me was grand You stood by my side through Chemo The hot flashes and the pain You’ll never know how much loving you Gave me strength to face the rain It’s true, life does flash before your eyes The day I found out I beat “Cancer” What I saw was an amazing man My husband, my prayers answered

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Sanctuary Docent Program Starts Soon

Save Our Shores Seeks Community Leaders to Become Educators for the Ocean

ave Our Shores (SOS) announced that their volunteer training program is starting in February. The Sanctuary Steward Program prepares citizens to become high impact marine educators, community organizers and resident experts on issues affecting the Monterey Bay. Stewards help to educate the greater community on issues such as pollution prevention, marine debris, habitat conservation and marine fisheries. Program participants receive a professional level education from highly renowned marine biologists, scientists and conservationists. In turn, Stewards make a personal pledge of 50 volunteer hours per year to volunteer for Save Our Shores. These highly trained Stewards are poised to take leadership roles in hosting beach clean-ups, making presentations and attending special events.

“I had three goals for the summer of 2011. Do something that would benefit my local community, be outdoors as much as possible and hopefully learn something in the process. The Save Our Shores Sanctuary Steward program allowed me to achieve all three. The most fulfilling moment for me as a Save Our Shores Steward was on July 4. I was told on numerous occasions how much my efforts were appreciated, and how thankful they were for my being there.” - Curtis Luckado, Sanctuary Steward Class of 2011 In 2012, Save Our Shores volunteers prevented 26,000 lbs of trash from harming our ocean and marine wildlife. They also helped to educate over 23,000 community members on issues affecting the ocean. Imagine what our beaches would look like without Save Our Shores volunteers? Save Our Shores encourages people to join the

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Sanctuary Steward Docent program and give back to the ocean this New Year. Save Our Shores relies on volunteers to carry out their mission of advocating for the beaches and waters of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The 2013 Sanctuary Steward Docent Program is now forming. Classes will be held every Thursday night from 6:30p.m. to 8:30p.m. from February 21 to April 11. The application deadline is February 7. “Briefs” from page 3 Since the inaugural event in February 2008, the annual Santa Cruz Chocolate Festival has raised over $50,000 for re-entry student scholarships. ••• Refurbished Collector’s Corner Opens at Santa Cruz Goodwill new look and a new selection of collectibles will greet visitors to the

Community members passionate about the ocean are encouraged to apply. Information and applications can be found online at saveourshores.org/stewards or by calling (831) 462-5660 x3. Save Our Shores is the Central Coast leader in caring for the marine environment through ocean awareness, advocacy and citizen action. We focus on educating youth about our local watersheds, tackling marine debris on our beaches and rivers, supporting habitat conservation efforts, implementing our DockWalker program and providing our community with educated and inspired Sanctuary Stewards! For more information about Save Our Shores visit our interactive website www. saveourshores.org or call at (831) 462-5660. Address: 345 Lake Avenue, Suite A, Santa Cruz, California 95062. Tel #: 831.462.5660. Website: www.saveourshores.org Caring for the marine environment through ocean awareness, advocacy and citizen action. n

Collector’s Corner beginning January 16 at 10 a.m. During the holiday season, the Corner was upgraded and redecorated, and new items were added to the inventory. Now it’s ready for reopening. The popular Collector’s Corner, located inside the Goodwill retail store 204 Union Street in Santa Cruz, Tel # 4231078, is staffed and managed by members of the Goodwill Auxiliary, a volunteer group dedicated to support the mission of Goodwill. The volunteers monitor the thousands of donations received by Goodwill and identify a selection of jewelry, silver and collectibles. These valuable items are cleaned, reconditioned, and then offered for sale at the Collector’s Corner at surprisingly low prices. The Collector’s Corner normal operating hours are Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the second Saturday each month from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. n

Dr. Diane Wittry Leads Santa Cruz County Symphony for ‘Around the World’ Concert T Diane Wittry will have to share the he Santa Cruz County Symphony will welcome the third guest conductor stage with another star- South Korean of its 2012-2013 Season, Dr. Diane dynamo pianist, Yoonie Han. In 2011, Ms. Wittry, to lead the orchestra “Around the Han took First Prize at the Washington World” with concerts that take audiences International Piano Competition and the on a musical tour that spans the globe from Fulbright Concerto Competition and at Austria to Appalachia to the Caribbean, as the World Piano Competition in 2008. A well as three centuries of classical music Juilliard graduate, Yoonie Han has been from Mozart’s cheerful Marriage of Figaro featured on NPR and the Korean Ministry written in 1786 to Miguel Del Aguila’s 1994 of Culture has named her its “Most Promising Young Artist.” work, Conga. The Ms. Han will be perconcerts take place forming Beethoven’s Saturday, January Third Piano Con26, 8 pm at the Santa certo, for which she Cruz Civic Audihas received rave torium and Sunday, reviews; it’s a rich January 27, 2 pm at and dynamic work the Mello Center for that highlights the the Performing Arts composer’s creative in Watsonville. genius. The concerto Dr. Wittry, who is begins forcefully competing to become with vigorous emothe Symphony’s new tional phrasing, and Maestra, has had a Diane Wittry then becomes mediprolific conducting career. She has led performances with tative before its joyful conclusion. The concert also features two major orchestras including the Milwaukee, San Diego and Houston Symphonies and lesser-known works- Aaron Copland’s the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and has con- Appalachian Spring, an emotive work that ducted extensively internationally in Italy, celebrates traditional America, and Miguel Russia, Eastern Europe, Canada and Japan. del Aguila’s rhythmic Conga, based on his Dr. Wittry is currently the music director dream of “an endless line of dead people for the Allentown Symphony Orchestra dancing through the fire of hell. I gradually in Pennsylvania where she conducts their started hearing the music, which was 22-concert season. She has been profiled flowing spontaneously out of me in an by the New York Times and Newsweek effort to entertain and alleviate the pain of and authored Beyond the Baton, a premier those poor souls.” For concertgoers who guide for young conductors and music want a wide variety of classical music and directors based on her experience leading talent packed into one concert, this is it! Free Pre-Concert Talks take place international conducting workshops.

before both performances: at 7 PM in the Civic Auditorium, prior to the Saturday evening concert; and at 1 PM in the Watsonville Mello Center, prior to the Sunday matinee concert. The Pre-concert talks are free and open to all concertgoers. n ••• Season Sponsors: Dorothy Wise and the Symphony League of Santa Cruz County generously sponsor The 2012-13 season. Tickets: Single tickets ($20-$65) are on sale by calling 831.420.5260 or visiting SantaCruzTickets.com Student Rush $10: On the day of the concert, bring a Student ID to the box office between 6:30-7:30 pm at the Civic Box Office or to the Mello Box Office between 12:30-1:00 2012-13 Season Tickets for the remaining three concerts are available by calling 831.462.0553, ext. 10. For symphony information, visit SantaCruzSymphony.org

Yoonie Han

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Nonfiction Reading is Important By Connie Matthiessen

y kids grew up alongside Harry and Hermione at Hogwarts, and Laura Ingalls Wilder on the Western plains. We burned through A Wrinkle in Time, Treasure Island, and the Inkheart series. But there’s one kind of writing that experts now recommend every teacher and parent take make a part of their children’s education.

Call it the nonfiction revolution. Educators, impelled by new educational standards, are extolling the importance of factual, informational reading. Why nonfiction? Many colleges have discovered that incoming freshman may be able to compute a math problem or analyze a short story but they can’t read a complex nonfiction text or write a well-researched essay.

A 2006 report found that only half the high school students who took the ACT exam were ready for college-level reading. Numbers were even lower for African American, Hispanic, and Native American students, and those from low-income families. To remedy this, experts are recommending focusing on informational texts earlier — including nonfiction books,

newspapers, magazines, atlases, and other reference materials — and teaching the building blocks of non-fiction writing earlier as well. The truth about nonfiction t can feel like a victory to get your child to simply open a book — any book. But recent research on education outcomes reveal that what kids read is

The Aptos Academy

Preschool — 8th Grade

Mount Madonna School

Phone: 831-688-1080

1940 Bonita Dr, Aptos web: www.aptosacademy.org

491 Summit Road, Mt. Madonna Phone: 408-847-2717 web: www.MountMadonnaSchool.org CAIS & WASC accredited • Biodiesel bus transportation • Nonsectarian • Established in 1979

The Aptos Academy is a non-profit, non-denominational, independent school, fully accredited by WASC. We offer an exciting and affordable program that combines strong academics with daily physical education, foreign language, extensive arts and enrichment programs, a wide variety of elective classes for upper grade students, as well as Homework Club and after school Horse Club. Our friendly students gain skill and confidence as a result of individual attention, emphasis on good study habits and working to their personal best, a complete understanding of materials at each grade, and the ability to move forward once ready. Call now for more information or to schedule a tour of our beautiful 5-acre campus just off Highway 1.

10 / January 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Students, preschool through grade 12, thrive in Mount Madonna’s safe and caring learning environment. With a core belief that a meaningful life is characterized by personal achievement and the ability to work effectively with others in service to society, MMS faculty take learning beyond the four classroom walls, incorporating service learning, student travel and outdoor adventures into a rich and varied educational program. The school supports students in becoming caring, self-aware and articulate critical thinkers, who are prepared to meet challenges with perseverance, creativity and integrity.

equally significant. In order to create a foundation for later learning, educators now agree that students should begin reading informational texts in all subjects from the earliest grades. Some 20 percent of students who go to four-year colleges and 40 percent who go to community college have to take remedial courses. This lack of college readiness, in turn, contributes to the high dropout rate among college freshman — a staggering 30 percent, by some estimates. “The clearest differentiator in reading between students who are college ready and students who are not is the ability to comprehend complex texts,” the ACT researchers concluded. Lisa Cebelak of the Leadership and Learning Center, a consulting division of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt says, “Jobs that demand low reading and writing skills are being sent overseas, so even entry level workplace jobs now demand higher level reading skills.” In his article “Too Dumb for Complex Texts,” Emory University professor Mark Bauerlein explains why this type of reading is so demanding: “Complex texts require a slower labor. Readers can’t proceed to the next paragraph without grasping the previous one, they can’t glide over unfamiliar words and phrases, and they can’t forget what they read four pages earlier… Complex texts force readers to acquire the knack of slow linear reading …” Nonfiction and the Common Core Standards he importance of nonfiction reading and writing is a theme that runs through new education standards that have been adopted by most states in the nation. The Common Core State Standards say: “…students today are asked to read very little expository text — as little as 7 and 15 percent of elementary and middle school instructional reading, for example, is expository…Worse still, [this reading is] too often of the superficial variety that involves skimming and scanning for particular, discrete pieces of information; such reading is unlikely to prepare students

for the cognitive demand of true understanding of complex text.” The Common Core Standards calls for a shift to nonfiction as children advance through school. According to the CCSS guidelines, by the end of 4th grade, students’ reading should be half fiction and half informational. By the end of 12th grade, the balance should be 30 percent fiction, 70 percent nonfiction. Write all about it he nonfiction revolution isn’t limited to reading but extends to writing as well. According to National Assessment of Educational Progress (NEAP)’s 2011 National Report Card, only one-quarter of U.S.12th graders write at a proficient level, and only three percent write at an advanced level. As a result, many kids arrive at college with poor writing skills.

Kids simply aren’t getting enough writing experience in elementary, middle and high school. NEAP researchers found, for example, that 41 percent of eighth through twelfth graders had less than a page of writing homework a week. The new Common Core Standards put new emphasis on nonfiction writing, including explanatory and persuasive writing, as well as writing across subject areas – including science, social studies and math.

GOOD SHEPHERD

CATHOLIC SCHOOL Providing Students from Preschool through Eighth Grade with an Outstanding Education Since 1963

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Good Shepherd Catholic School

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2727 Mattison Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95065 Phone: 831-476-4000 web: www.gsschool.org

Good Shepherd Catholic School, located in central Santa Cruz County, offers a fully accredited academic program for students in preschool through eighth grade. A highly qualified faculty and staff provide a well-rounded curriculum that is project-based and faith driven. The school’s focus on community service gives students numerous opportunities to learn and practice Catholic social teachings firsthand. Spanish, music, art, library science, computer classes and physical education classes are offered in preschool through eighth grade. The school’s highly successful interscholastic sports program starts in third grade. School hours are 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with after-school care until 6:00 p.m. each school day. Please call 831.476.4000 to schedule a tour.

“We know that writing helps kids learn,” says Carrie Heath Phillips, a program director for the Council of Chief State Officers. “Kids should be doing more writing in all subject areas, including science and social studies. And not just a paragraph here and there, but regular writing in all their classes.” Though there’s plenty of consensus about the importance of nonfiction reading and writing, exactly how and when it will affect your child’s classroom remains to be seen. Many schools and districts today have been hit hard by budget cuts, and will have to balance the new Common Core guidelines with the demands of high stakes testing. It can’t hurt to add some facts to your child’s fairytales. Nonfiction isn’t about limiting their imagination, but opening their minds to the world of learning. Six ways to spark your child’s nonfiction reading and writing: Pursue the passion: Get books that encourage your child’s interests. More is more: Offer lots of nonfiction reading material – from books and magazines to newspapers and atlases. Be the bookworm: Read a broad range of fiction and nonfiction, and talk about what you read. Reality check: Talk about connections between what your child is reading and events in the news. Reasons to write: Suggest new writing projects — from letters to grandma, to keeping a diary, to penning a play for the neighborhood kids. Get the lowdown: Ask your child’s teacher if your child’s reading list includes any nonfiction texts. If not, why not? n

2727 Mattison Lane Santa Cruz 831-4 76-4000 www.gsschool.org WASC/WCEA Accredit

Good Shepherd Catholic School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and/ or ethnic origin, age or gender in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other schooladministered programs.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 15th 2012 / 11

Supervisor’s Staff Comes Prepared

Second District has Experienced Duo in Violante and Mulhearn

By Noel Smith

sually people work their way UP the political ladder but Supervisor Zach Friend has found two extremely experienced political professionals for his staff whose experience was gained at the state and national level. Allyson Violante worked for former Assemblyman, now State Senator, Bill Monning for four years while Patrick Mulhearn was part of Congressman Farr’s staff for six years. I asked them why they chose to work in government at the local level. They both were adamant that they felt local government could be more responsive to the individual and to the community than was possible at the state and federal level. Violante said, “Local government has the opportunity to respond more quickly and more specifically to the needs of the community.” Mulhearn added, “Local government can also be more responsive because it works in a non-partisan arena which simplifies the issues involved.” Supervisor Friend noted, “Santa Cruz County is different than many counties in that 65 percent of the

12 / January 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Patrick Mulhearn, Allyson Violante & Supervisor Friend people that live here depend on county government to deliver public services such as roads, parks, planning,

development and law enforcement. It’s important that we in county government listen to our citizens because there is no other level in many cases they can go to for an answer or for a public service.” Both Violante and Mulhearn will be specializing in particular areas of government concern becoming the resident experts for the Second District with a cadre of outside contacts and professionals to consult with as needed. Because of the number of complex issues that come before the Board of Supervisors, in this way they can help Supervisor Friend to evaluate such issues before he makes recommendations, takes action or votes. “And we shouldn’t forget,” said Supervisor Friend, “That whatever action the board takes affects all five districts of the County. So, you have to be sure that such actions or ordinances are really necessary for all and not counter productive for some. That is why I’m fortunate to have found two such experienced and dedicated people for my staff to help me as I represent not only the people of my district, but all of Santa Cruz County.” n

Pinnacles to Become National Park

Obama Signs Congressman Farr’s bill to establish the United States’ 59th National Park

WASHINGTON, DC — President Barack Obama signed Congressman Sam Farr’s (D-Carmel) bill, H.R. 3641, to create Pinnacles National Park today. Pinnacles becomes the 59th national park and the first on California’s Central Coast. With its creation, California is now home to nine national parks, more than any other state. “The Central Coast has long been recognized for our beautiful shoreline, where mountains meet the sea,” said Congressman Sam Farr. “Visitors have traveled the world to see our coast but now they are going to come to also see our cliffs.” The park draws its name from the volcanic spires that were formed by the eruption of the Neenach Volcano over 23 million years ago. Established in 1908 by President Theodore Roosevelt, the 26,000 acre Pinnacles National Monument is the 11th oldest National Monument in the United States. The legislation passed both chambers

of Congress unanimously because of its broad, grassroots support due to the positive impact it would have on the surrounding communities. Located in both

Monterey and San Benito counties, the legislation had support from both Chambers of Commerce and Visitors Bureaus. Ken Burns, director of “The National Parks:

America’s Best Idea” also supports the legislation. “By elevating Pinnacles National Monument to national park status we also elevate the region’s appeal to potential visitors,” Farr said. “These new tourists will spend their dollars at local businesses and ultimately be the driving force that helps this region between the two counties grow and eventually prosper.” The Pinnacles system is home to 149 species of birds, 49 mammals, 22 reptiles, six amphibians, 68 butterflies, 36 dragonflies and damselflies, nearly 400 bees and many thousands of other invertebrates. Over 30 endangered California condors reside in the cliffs of the Pinnacles. Since 2003, the Park Service has been involved in the California Condor Recovery Program to re-establish California condors to the area. Additionally, the caves located in the new park are breeding grounds for the Towsend big-eared bat, a species of special concern. n

Dedicated Hearing Solutions Michele J. Ikuta, AuD, FAAA Doctor of Audiology For 36 years we have gone out of our way to insure that your hearing device will meet your needs for many years. At the DEDICATED HEARING SOLUTIONS office you will find something that many people just talk about….service. Here you can be expertly fitted with a hearing aid or assistive listening device including wireless Bluetooth compatibility that will help to improve your quality of life. Our prices are competitive too! Please call to schedule your appointment. I’m here Mon 1:30-5 and Fri 9:30-noon

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2920 Park Ave, Suite C • Soquel, CA 95073 • 831-464-4327 www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 15th 2012 / 13

Colin Kaepernick – The Real Deal! Story and Photos By Dave Love

“You armed me with strength for battle: you humbled my adversaries before me.” — Psalm 18:39 “Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear though a war break out against me, even then I will be confident.” — Psalm 27:3

hese are the tattoos on the arms of 49er quarterback, Colin Kaepernick- who “went in battle” in his first professional championship playoff game … and won. These inscriptions are about a warrior asking God for divine assistance. Kaepernick asked his parents to help him pick out these passages. His mother, Teresa Kaepernick said, “They are about asking God to help kick somebody’s butt. When you look at them, it’s not surprising to see that an athlete chose those two verses.” Colon Kaepernick has been “kicking butt” ever since he took the reigns of starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers. In the playoff game against the Packers, Kaepernick dismantled the opposition. His performance was one of the best by an NFL quarterback with a rushing record of an unbelievable 181 yards breaking Michael Vick’s single game quarterback rushing mark of 173 yards. An NFL record was also set by throwing and rushing for 444 total yards in the same game, while logging 263 yards through the air. Kaepernick also had a collegiate history of record setting.

He is the only quarterback in the history of division 1 college football to have passed for over 10,000 yards and rushed for over 4000 yards in a collegiate career, along with being the only division 1 quarterback to have passed for over 2000 yards and rushed for over 1000 yards in a single season for 3 consecutive seasons. Kaepernick is the only quarterback to have been drafted in the Major League

Baseball Draft in 2009 (Chicago Cubs) but decided to continue his football career at the University of Nevada. He was a high school two-time all-state baseball player in California and was listed on Major League Baseball’s website for 2006 and was reported to have a 92 mph fastball as a high school senior. “Kaepernick” page 21

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 15th 2012 / 15

CHP Encourages Teens to ‘Start Smart’ and Stay Safe

SACRAMENTO — Traffic collisions are the leading cause of death of teenagers across the United States and in California. Each year, thousands of young drivers and their passengers are killed in collisions. Traffic collisions are the leading cause of death for 15-20 year olds. The primary objective of the program is to provide

teens and parents with an understanding of how poor choices behind the wheel can affect the lives of numerous people. The Start Smart program also provides teens and parents with information on defensive driving, traffic laws in California, dynamics of traffic collisions, tips on avoiding traffic collisions, and DUI awareness.

ORTHODONTICS NANCY M. LEUNG, D.D.S., M.S.

Specialist in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics

Now Accepting New Patients! Initial Exam Complimentary

9515 Soquel Drive, Ste: 103, Aptos, CA 95003 831-685-2800 Conveniently located next to Aptos Junior High

Also in Watsonville 56 Penny Lane, Ste. B Watsonville, CA 95076 831-722-5022

www.thesmilecrew.com 16 / January 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

According to the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System for 2010, the most recent year for finalized data, there were more than 57,000 drivers between the ages of 16 and 19 involved in collisions in California. A teen driver was determined to be at fault in 67 percent of those collisions. “The first year behind the wheel for a teen driver can be one of the most dangerous times in their life. Teens are far more likely to be killed in a vehicle collision than in anything else,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “Developing safe driving habits is the first step toward avoiding a collision.” Designed for newly licensed teen drivers and their parents, the CHP offers Start Smart, a two-hour driver safety education class that is conducted throughout the state. The free program is an interactive driver safety class for teens and their parents. During the course, officers and speakers illustrate the critical responsibilities of safe driving and collision avoidance techniques. Parents are also reminded of their responsibility to teach their new driver and model good driving behavior. “Our goal is to have teens and their parents leave the class more aware, better

educated, and better prepared,” added Commissioner Farrow. “Our Start Smart program has had a positive impact on thousands of parents and teens in recent years.” Smart Start classes are free of charge. The next class will be on Thursday, January 31, at 6:30 p.m. at the Santa Cruz Police Department Community Room at 155 Center Street. For more details, and to make a reservation, please call the Santa Cruz CHP Office at (831) 662-0511. Parents and teenagers can sign up for a Start Smart class by contacting their local CHP office. To locate a CHP office near you, visit www.chp.ca.gov. Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. n

‘Fiddler on the Roof’ at Mount Madonna

Lyrical Songs and Depth of Script at the Hawks’ Nest Theater

ount Madonna School invites you to its high school production of Fiddler on the Roof, January 25-27 at the Hawks’ Nest Theater. Evening performances are planned for Friday and Saturday, January 25 and 26 at 7:00pm; and a matinee show on Sunday, January 27 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students under 18; all seats are reserved. To purchase tickets, call (408) 847-2717.   Set in the small Russian village of Anatevka, Fiddler tells the story of Tevye, a poor dairyman, as he tries to instill in his five daughters the traditions of his tight-knit Jewish community in the face of a changing society and growing antiSemitism. Rich in historical and ethnic detail, Fiddler on the Roof continues to touch audiences around the world with its humor, warmth and honesty.   Comments by MMS performing arts director Sampad Martin Kachuck. “In the musical theatre pantheon, there are few musicals as well crafted as Fiddler on the Roof. From the range of lyrical songs and varieties of dance, to the depth of the script, the play serves as a shining example of theatrical excellence. Therefore, it is not a play selected lightly. To do it justice takes huge commitment and willingness from all

involved.  More than anything, Fiddler is an experience of the heart, of love for family and traditions, and the realistic conflicts that arise within both when change and dire circumstance presents themselves. “As Tevye, struggles with maintaining some type of balance between his religious faith and his devotion to family, and between what he knows and what he must now accept, not only do the characters surrounding him onstage also share similar struggles, but we in the audience find connection as well.   “High school students know about love of family and the challenges of establishing independence from their parents, about honoring existing and external wishes and methods, while still wanting freedom to chart their own life course. This is the stuff of countless literature, movies and songs. These connecting points are what make Fiddler on the Roof so compelling for performers of all ages.   “I am thrilled to witness the students in this cast take on the challenges of the production with such commitment and openness,” Kachuck adds. “Whether we hit Broadway quality or not, and we will certainly strive for it. As a directing team, we couldn’t be prouder of their engagement.” n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 15th 2012 / 17

Defensa de Mujeres Benefit

Singer-Songwriters Alisa Fineman and Kimball Hurd in Concert to Support Women in Crisis

Sunday, January 27, 5 - 6:30 p.m., Haute Enchilada, 7902 Moss Landing Rd, Moss Landing, CA

he Haute Enchilada Café & Gallerias presents award-winning singer-songwriters Alisa Fineman and Kimball Hurd in Concert on Sunday, January 27 beginning at 5:00 p.m. Tickets are $25 per ticket with $10 from every ticket sale going to Women’s Crisis Support ~ Defensa de Mujeres. The Women’s Crisis Support ~ Defensa de Mujeres has a 35 year history in Santa Cruz County of providing advocacy and services to women and children affected by violence. Those services include court accompaniments, restraining order assistance,

counseling, emergency shelter, 24-hour crisis line, outreach and education and support groups. Women’s Crisis Support ~ Defensa de Mujeres is the only rape crisis center in Santa Cruz County and includes an emergency response team. All services are available in Spanish and English and are free or low cost. Kalyne Foster, Director of Development at Women’s Crisis Support ~ Defensa de Mujeres states, “It is through generous donations from local organizations such as The Haute Enchilada Café & Galerias that enable us to provide the vital services to help local women ultimately lead much

healthier, happier and more successful lives.” n ••• Reservations required. Call 831-633-5843 Alisa and Kimball have earned national acclaim for their songwriting and world music repertoire. Known for her deep, emotional singing voice, Alisa’s background in sacred music adds a compelling world music component to this duo’s lush repertoire. She is perfectly complemented by multi-instrumentalist and singer songwriter Kimball Hurd, with his array of musical accents on guitar, mandolin, mandola, Dobro, banjo and slide guitar. Their appreciation for the ordinary miracles of everyday infuses their songs. Website: www.alisafineman.com/alisakimball.htm

Caregiver Training Series Taking Place at Cabrillo College

his comprehensive, hands-on series of seven classes, for new and seasoned caregivers, is designed to increase knowledge, skills and confidence in providing hands-on care to seniors and people with disabilities. Each class will include instruction, discussion and practical application of essential caregiving skills. Students who complete all 7 classes in the series will be awarded a Certificate of Completion. Classes are designed specifically to: • Improve caregiving skills and confidence

• Learn about the aging process • Discover resources in the community for caregivers • Meet other caregivers • Engage with community professionals in Human Services, In-Home Support, Nursing, and Elder Care, and Advocacy. Spring 2013 Series begins Saturday, March 23, 2013 (classes are every other weekend for a total of 5 Saturdays). The Caregiver Training Series has been offered in the community since 2010 and is

18 / January 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

the result of a collaborative effort among agencies specializing in public health, human services, geriatric care, in-home caregiving, and advocacy. Registration is now open at http:// www.cabrillo.edu/services/extension/ healthcare.html. Cost is $275 for the entire series ($30-$55 per class) An early bird discount will be applied on all enrollments prior to February 25, 2013. Questions? Email santacruzcaregiver@ gmail.com or leave a message at 831-7088576 n

Be “Neo” – Swallow the Red Pill

f you’re exhausted by being connected 24/7, this message is for you. If worried you’ll be seen as a slacker if you don’t answer every email within 14 minutes, this message is for you. If you’re tweeting, liking and pinning multiple times a day because you don’t want to miss anything, then my message is definitely for you. (If someone hands you this column, thank him or her, then read it, even if you have to multi-task to get it done. They care about you.) My message: Who you are being when you connect matters more than being connected 24/7. Red or Blue Pill? emember the movie The Matrix? (1999). Computer programmer, alias “Neo,” doubles as a hacker driven to learn the meaning of the “Matrix.” Neo meets Morpheus, chooses to take the red (not blue) pill and wakes up in a liquid-filled vessel as part of the human battery making electricity for the machines that are generating the “matrix” that humans live in and think is real. Neo joins the rebellion against the machines; dodges bullets by altering time; is killed by Agent Smith (hum…) and brought back to life by Trinity’s kiss. Neo, the “One” as proclaimed by the Oracle, phones the Machines to say he will show humans “a world where anything’s possible”, not just what the matrix allows. Steps out of the phone booth and flies into the sky. End the movie and begin the audience being plugged into the matrix’s matrix, i.e., the sequels. (“Resistance is futile.” Sorry, mixing my movie metaphors.) Which pill would you swallow? he choice -- and it is a choice -- is between the blissful ignorance of illusion (blue) and embracing the sometimes painful truth of reality (red). Which world will help you lead your team? Contribute to your family? Which reality will support achieving your commitments that really matter, the ones worth pursuing regardless of the outcome? Recently, I spoke at SIPACON 2012: Always On, Always Connected – New

Era of Connectivity. My communication workshop was entitled: As technology advances, so must your leadership & communication skills. The attendees were investors, programmers, hardware and software designers, makers of video games, entrepreneurs, inventors of augmented reality and making texting possible for the illiterate. They spoke of terabytes, zettabytes (Google it, I had to) and how 72 hours of media is being uploaded to the Internet every minute. Yes, I was addressing the matrix-makers themselves. As committed and dedicated as they are to building the matrix with their genius that lets us connect to each other around the world, under the sea and over the stars, they readily admitted that their technical expertise doesn’t help them when it comes to dealing with people. While they could create a mobile device that sends your medical history to the ER before you arrive in the ambulance, they did not have a technology that helped them resolve team conflict, grumpy bosses or figuring out the next step in their career. We talked about how different communication preferences required different approaches if a solid connection was to be made. For example, People with a “commanding” style of decision making (I’ll make the decision now!) prefer to hear the bottom line first, then the details. People with the “commanding” style can steamroller the “collaborative” people, negating their valuable insights. (“Let’s gather different views to make the best decision.”) After my presentation, a man waited for the crowd around me to clear. “I’m more objective and opposite of your outgoing, so it’s not easy for me to talk to you because you’re pretty energetic. But, here’s my question. Do I have to be all these styles? I’m an entrepreneur and have to get along with lots of different people. How do I do that?” Being “the One” n that moment, it was clear to me he’d taken the red pill. Maybe he had to swallow a handful because the crowd didn’t clear for a good 20 minutes. He was willing to be vulnerable with someone he didn’t know, and worse, someone who

didn’t exhibit his preferred style. He didn’t let his preference, which includes being guarded and holding back stop him. His courage demonstrated the power of choosing to risk stepping out of our comfort zone. In that moment, he was Neo, “the One,” who stands outside the matrix (even though he built some of it) to authentically connect to another person. Inspiring. (Come to think of it, Nemo was a bit like that; but there I go again, mixing movie metaphors.) You are your own “the One.” You can choose the pill that unplugs you from the 24/7 matrix so you can connect with yourself first. I think you’ll find it the best reality of them all. n ••• Camille Smith is a performance coach who helps leaders and teams produce results

that matter by building relationships that work. Office: 831-685-1480 ~ Mobile: 831-251-5190. “Work In Progress Coaching: Turning potential into results”

As committed and dedicated as [the machines] are to building the matrix ... they readily admitted that their technical expertise doesn’t help them when it comes to dealing with people.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 15th 2012 / 19

Happy New Year — scwd2 Desalination Program Monthly Update F or the past four years, our monthly updates on the scwd2 Desalination Program have provided current information on the evaluation of desalination as a supplemental water supply for the City of Santa Cruz and Soquel Creek Water District. In 2012, we continued to focus on preparing the environmental review of the proposed 2.5 mgd seawater desalination project and informing the community about the project. Other highlights from the past year include: • Awarded the National Grand Prize for Environmental Communications from the American Academy of Environmental Engineers on communicating perspectives on water supply and desalination energy use. • City of Santa Cruz councilmembers adopted Ordinance 2012-3 to require voter approval for desalination plant construction, and the Charter of the

•

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City of Santa Cruz was subsequently amended, which solidified the requirement. Amended the Agreement between the City of Santa Cruz and Soquel Creek Water District to establish the process for the joint lead agencies to consider and take action on the EIR and the proposed project. Created a new project overview handout, had information booths at several community outreach events (Earth Day Festival, SC Business Fair, Capitola-Aptos Business Showcase, and SC County Fair), met with and answered questions with many members of the public including presentations made to various community clubs and groups. Completed the Seawater Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) Desalination Facility Preliminary Design Report. Soquel Creek Water District Board of Directors adopted the 2012 Integrated Resources Plan Update which set the basin recovery goals and evaluated ten alternatives to achieve that goal, explored mandatory water restrictions in lieu of a sufficient supply, and reaffirmed the scwd2 Desalination project

as the preferred alternative to further consider. • Featured in the dedicated “Deconstructing Desalination” Series of the Santa Cruz Sentinel.

Look for the Draft EIR in spring 2013 hile previously planned for release in late 2012, additional time has been spent to: Evaluate the impacts based on new information regarding the current water supply; i.e., the District’s overdrafted groundwater conditions and revised estimates for recovery, and the State and Federal regulations that will require the City to leave more water in streams/ rivers to protect fish and threatened species than previously anticipated. Analyze various and cumulative alternatives that have been proposed or altered since the initial scoping process such as additional water conservation, mandatory restrictions, surface/ground water exchange, and expanded use of recycled water. Incorporate policy decisions such as the Santa Cruz City Council and Soquel Creek Water District Board declaration to design the desal facility to be net carbon neutral and include components such as

solar panels and energy recovery devices. The report is scheduled to be ready in early spring 2013 and will be followed by a public review period that includes the opportunity for the public to provide written and oral comments on the document. The EIR and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process are the foundation upon which the community and elected officials will evaluate and make critical decisions about the future of our water supply. For more information on how to participate, visit www.scwd2desal. org/Page-Project-phases_EIR.php. 2013 Meeting Schedule for scwd2 Task Force The joint scwd2 Task Force, comprised of two Santa Cruz City Council members and two Soquel Creek Water District Board members, meets on the third Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. Meetings are open to the public and the location alternates between the City of Santa Cruz Police Community Room (155 Center Street, Santa Cruz) and Soquel Creek Water District Headquarters (5180 Soquel Drive, Soquel). The 2013 meeting schedule is available on-line at http://www.scwd2desal.org/documents/ Meetings/ 2013/ 2013_meetings.pdf . Meeting agendas, packets, and minutes are also available on-line at http://www. scwd2desal.org/Page-Public_Meetings. php n ••• For information, visit www.scwd2desal.org

Aptos High School Scoreboard Boys Basketball

Aptos Season Record: (12-4, SCCAL 3-1) Aptos 75 – San Lorenzo Valley 62 Aptos Scoring: Cole Welle 26 pts, 22 rbds, 5 assists, 4 steals, 4 blocks; Antonia Andrade 18 pts, 10 rbds; Rewyn Reyes 12 pts, 7 rbds; Ben Brenkwitz 6 pts; Tyler Clark 5 pts; Luke Rossi 4 pts; Jonathan Bol 2 pts Aptos 68 – Harbor 40 Aptos Scoring: Cole Welle 19 pts, 19 rbds, 4 blocks; Rewyn Reyes 10 pts; Antonia Andrade 7 pts; Ben Brenkwitz 7 pts; Shandy Victory 6 pts, 6 assists; Frank Horst 4 pts; Tyler Clark 3 pts; Brooks Nicholson 3 pts; Luke Rossi 3 pts; Ryland Hollins 3 pts: Jonah Gonzales 3 pts; Kenny Harrah 2 pts; Jonathan Bol 1 pt

Girls Basketball

Aptos Season Record: (6-9, SCCAL 2-2)

Aptos 43 – San Lorenzo Valley 27 Aptos 42 – Harbor 37 St. Francis 59 – Aptos 39 Soquel 61 – Aptos 20

Boys Soccer

Aptos Season Record: (3-5-1, SCCAL 1-2-1) Aptos 1 – Harbor 1 Aptos Scoring: 64:00 Aptos 3 – St Francis 1 Aptos Scoring: Arturo Milanes (Dominic Royal) 0:32; A. Milanes (Edgar Cuellar) 41:30; Cort Young (A. Milanes) 46:30

Girls Soccer

Aptos Season Record: (2-4-3, SCCAL 1-1-1) Aptos 4 – St. Francis 0 Aptos Scoring: Lindsay Moore (Kelsey

“Kaepernick” from page 14 Kaepernick was born November 3, 1987 in Wisconsin, adopted by Rick and Theresa Kaepernick and moved to Turlock California at age 4. He started youth football at 8 years old as a defensive end and punter before becoming the starting quarterback at the age of 9 and known for his long pass throwing ability. Young Colin wrote a letter to himself when he was 11 years old which stated his desire to become either a Green Bay Packer or 49er, which is ironic in light of his first play-off game! His vision for the future and his resolve

Kusaba) 2:00; Kalle West (Anna Burke) 60:00, Halley Bermingham (K. West) 65:00; K Kusaba (K. West) 68:00

Third Place: 132 lbs Kevin Feely (Aptos) def. John Vargas (Pioneer) rule

Aptos Season Record: (5-1, SCCAL 2-0) Aptos 40 – Santa Cruz 0 106 lbs – Ian Else (Aptos) def. Joe Castillo 8-6 (OT) • 113 lbs – Gio Zacarias (Aptos) def. Jacob Ritz – pin 2:28 • 132 lbs – Kevin Feely (Aptos) def. Angle Mejilla – pin 1:22 • 182 lbs – Austen Verdugo (Aptos) def. Ryan Renteria – pin 1:25 • 195 lbs – Tim Bonanno (Aptos) won by forfeit • 220 lbs – Alec Bonsall (Aptos) won by forfeit • 285 lbs – Caleb Phalen (Aptos) won by forfeit Jim Root Classic First Place: 120 lbs – Ramon Zacarias (Aptos) def. Hayden Mattox (Pittman) 7-3

Aptos 42 – Santa Cruz 9 106 lbs – Ian Else (Aptos) won by forfeit • 126 lbs – Adam Dorney (Aptos) def. Quintin Cardilla – pin 1:19 • 132 lbs – Sunny Torres (Soq) def. Kevin Feely 4-0 • 138 lbs – Jacob Blaire (Aptos) def. River Birchall – pin 3:12 • 145 lbs – Miller Clark (Aptos) def. Matt Hohmann – pin 3:39 • 152 lbs – Alson Delcarlo (Soq) def. Austen Bartlebaugh – pin 3:45 • 160 lbs – Johnny Scavaria (Aptos) def. Alaro Schwelkurt – pin 0:45 • 220 lbs – Alec Bonsall (Aptos) won by forfeit • 285 lbs – Caleb Phalen (Aptos) def. Freddy clock – pin 0:33 n

Wrestling

to pursue his dreams have now become a reality the only difference is that he is 220 pounds, not 140! Faith has been a major influence in Kaepernick’s life and sports. Here are his thoughts on religion and sports. “I don’t think most people look at football players as what they’re doing out here is trying to glorify the Lord,” Kaepernick said. “I think a lot of people think of it as, “Oh it’s a game, let’s go win.” Ultimately, that’s your goal, that’s what you want to do, but you also want to glorify the Lord on your way to doing that. “My faith is where my game comes from. I’ve been very blessed to have the talent to play the game that I do and be successful at it. I think God guides me through every day and helps me take the right steps and has helped me to get to where I’m at. When I step on the field, I always say a prayer, say I am thankful to be able to wake up that morning and go out there and try to glorify the Lord with what I do on the field. I think if you go out and try to do that, no matter what you do on the field, you can be happy about what you did.” About his rise to starting quarterback, “It’s almost indescribable. Growing up, I was the kid that was running around looking at high school athletes in my area that were doing well and saying ‘Man, one day I’m going to be like that,’ and then I’d meet someone that was in college or the

pros and think ‘Man, that’s my dream, that’s what I want to become,’ and to be a in a position where you can be a role model for kids like that and send a positive example, a positive message to them, I really want to take advantage of that opportunity and send the right message and be a good role model to those kids.” Colin Kaepernick’s future is bright. It looks like he will be leading the 49ers into another dynasty and hopefully to a Super Bowl victory this year at the age of 25, the same age Joe Montana was when he quarterbacked the 49ers to their first Super Bowl, No. XVI in 1982. n

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‘About Face’ — A study of Personality and Character

Newest library installation will make a real impression on the community

he ‘Art in the Library’ program is establishing the Scotts Valley Library as an art destination by attracting renowned artists. The next exhibit, ‘About Face’ begins January 19 and will be celebrated with an artist reception hosted by local State Farm insurance agent Laureen Youngmeyer on Saturday, January 26, from 2-4pm. The show will run through April 27. For this first new showing of 2013, Program chair Valri Peyser has selected: Sefla Joseph • Susan Hancey • Katharina Short • Richard Bennett • Liz Crain • Mary Altier • Dee Hooker • June Pace About Face” is an exhibition bringing together eight local artists focusing on faces and how they communicate personality and aspects of character. The subject matter is presented in various styles of art

including painting, mixed media, photography and sculpture. Faces are a fascinating subject in the world of art. Every face has history with a story behind it. This show explores the different methods and stories the artists choose to express. “The physical building of the new Scotts Valley library lends itself so well to art with its large, expansive walls and wonderful natural light,” notes Peyser. “So it is very gratifying that the community is embracing ‘Art in the Library’ so enthusiastically, and our county’s many experienced and respected artists are eager to participate.” The library had more than 150,000 visitors last year and is the second busiest branch of the Santa Cruz Public library system. Library employees report positive feedback on the Art Program and

all visitors eagerly await the opening of the new patio that will expand the library facilities in the spring of 2013. “The work by our county’s accomplished artists enhances the experience of visiting the library, making the space more dynamic and visually interesting,” said Derek Timm, the new president of the Friends of the Library – Scotts Valley Chapter. “The Art in the Library program is a natural extension of the library’s commitment to cultural education.” The ‘Art in the Library’ program launched its first showing in Summer 2011 and each display runs up to three months in length featuring six to twelve artists at a time. More information on Friends of the Library - Scotts Valley and the ‘Art in the Library’ program may be found at http:// www.fsvpl.org/p/art-in-library.html.

Richard Bennett — Alison

Community Foundation Welcomes New Members

reny Cooper and Jerry Lopez have joined the board of directors of the Community Foundation Santa Cruz County. Freny Cooper is the owner of Summit Communications, helping large enterprises and startFreny Cooper up businesses develop strategic plans and marketing programs, and a consultant with Catalyst Strategies. She holds an MBA from USC’s Marshall School of Business and a BA from the Monterey Institute of International Studies. Prior to consulting, she held positions at a number of tech

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firms, including Silicon Graphics, Claris Corporation and Interactive Network. Freny also serves on the board of the Friends of Long Marine Lab. She and her husband, Val Cole, live in Santa Cruz. Jerry Lopez is Jerry Lopez a financial advisor with VALIC Financial, Inc., specializing in retirement planning. He has been an investment advisor with Morgan Stanley and before Old Republic Title Insurance Company. “Foundation” page 25

January Wildlife Calendar

Weekends — Elkhorn Slough Ecological Reserve docent-led walks, every Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Binoculars and bird books available to borrow at no cost. Visitor Center and main overlook are fully accessible. Day use fee is $4.32 per person, age 16 and older. Groups of 10 or more should schedule a separate tour. Directions and more information at www.wildlife.ca.gov/lands/er/region4/ elkhorn.html. Every Monday — Volunteer Stewardship Field Crew Mondays at Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, 1700 Elkhorn Rd., Royal Oaks (95076), 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Help preserve natural habitat by doing seed collection, planting, trail maintenance and weeding introduced species. Details at www. w i l d l i f e . c a . g o v / l a n d s / e r / re g i o n 4 / elkhorn.html or www.elkhornslough.org. Sandhill Crane Wetland Tours, the first three weekends of each fall/winter month through February at Woodbridge Ecological Reserve near Lodi. The docentled tours start approximately 90 minutes before sundown and run to about 30 minutes after sunset. Pre-tour registration is required online at www.wildlife.ca.gov/ delta/cranetour and may be made up to six weeks in advance. Suggested donation is $10 per adult. The South unit of Woodbridge ER is accessible to the public at any time. It features informative interpretive panels, and viewing of sandhill crane ‘fly-over’ at sundown is common. The Woodbridge North unit (accessible only by tour) includes a bird-viewing blind and typically receives the ‘fly-in’ where the

cranes come to roost for the night. For more information please visit the website or call (209) 948-7708. Guided Swan Tours in rice fields near Marysville, Saturdays in January, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. Driving tours along a short route with very little walking required. See tundra swans, ducks, geese, cranes, shorebirds, white pelicans, herons, egrets and raptors. Preregistration is required at www.wildlife. ca.gov/regions/2/SwanTours. Tours are free, but registrants are encouraged to make a donation online to the California Wildlife Foundation to support this program. For more information, please call (916) 358-2852. Weekends — Guided Wetland Tours of Gray Lodge Wildlife Area, 12:30 to 2 p.m. at 3207 Rutherford Rd, Gridley (95948). On the Pacific Flyway at the base of the Sutter Buttes, Gray Lodge WA is one of the premier birding spots in northern California. This public land provides appealing habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds and other wildlife. Migrating ducks arrive through fall and winter populations grow to hundreds of thousands. Local experts lead a 0.3-mile stroll on a paved trail to an elevated viewing deck and discuss wildlife adaptations, natural history, conservation efforts and how to identify wildlife. Tours are included in the $4 entrance fee and self-guided visitors are welcome. Tours are cancelled in heavy rain. Please make reservations for groups of 12 or more. For information or scheduling, contact the Gray Lodge WA Naturalist Office at (530) 846-7505 or ldieter@wildlife.ca.gov, and visit www.wildlife.ca.gov/lands/wa/region2/ graylodge/index.html. n

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Winter Reskilling Expo

Educational Forum Focuses On Local Food Sovereignty and Water Conservation

he Winter Reskilling Expo takes place Sunday, January 27 from 10 am to 4 pm at the Museum of Art and History (MAH), 705 Front Street in Santa Cruz. Admission is by donation, $5 to $25, based on a sliding scale. Proceeds benefit TimeBank Santa Cruz. Doors open at nine. The Reskilling Expo presents lowcost sustainable living-skills education to Santa Cruz County residents. The Winter Expo is offering 14 separate hands-on workshops on food-related topics such as natural agriculture, beginning beekeeping, fruit tree grafting and sauerkraut made simple. Classes on cottage food practices, seed stewardship, seed starting, seasonal preserves, and composting highlight the Winter Expo’s focus on local food sovereignty. Brett Graf, an ecological landscape designer, is presenting a workshop on “How to Turn Your Lawn into Food.” Six new teachers include Kathryn Lukas, John Bartolero, Howard Ling, Sylvia Patience, Zane Griffin and Michael Olson. “When people begin to define and

design their own food systems, they develop food sovereignty,” says Reskilling

Expo Director Bonnie Linden. “When those who produce, distribute and consume food create policies that support a sustainable local or regional economy, they have local food sovereignty. Local food sovereignty is the antithesis of global food systems that answer primarily to the demands of markets and corporations. In addition to classes, we plan to show ‘Incredible Edible Todmorden,’ an inspiring video from the UK, a country that is doing amazing things with food sovereignty.”

The Winter Expo includes a panel discussion designed to explore the elements of local food sovereignty. Panelists include Aaron Dinwoodie, a physicist and farmer at Tunitas Creek Farm in Pescadero; Delmar McComb, a horticulturist, designer and biodynamic farmer; Zane Griffin of Santa Cruz Local Foods and Michael Olson, a nationally known food activist from KSCO radio and Think Local First. The session includes break-out groups for participants to discuss next steps forward with the panelists. The Expo continues its exploration of water use and conservation best practices. “Water is an issue in our region currently, so we’re having a Water Salon at this Winter Expo,” says Linden. “This is a hosted gathering for participants to refine their taste and increase their knowledge of local water issues through conversation. It will be hosted by LeAnne Ravinale, water conservation coordinator for Scotts Valley Water District.” In addition to regular events at the MAH, the Reskilling Expo has established two other resilience-building outreach projects: the Santa Cruz Grows Seed Library and TimeBank Santa Cruz. Workshops on Seed Starting and Plant Propagation are offered at each Expo. TimeBanking is a system of reciprocal exchange that builds local resilience as members trade services hour-for-hour. “Expo” page 25

Stone Appointed Chair of Assembly Human Services Committee

SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Mark Stone (D-Santa Cruz) has been named Chair of the Assembly Human Services Committee. The committee considers legislation regarding child welfare, adult foster care, CalWORKS and developmental disability services. “I’m pleased to continue my work to protect the most vulnerable Californians by serving as Chair of the Human Services Committee,” said Stone. “I look forward to focusing on legislation to improve the lives of California’s children, elderly, and disabled citizens.” Stone’s appointment builds upon his previous work as a champion for disadvantaged children. As a Santa Cruz County Supervisor, Stone served on the 24 / January 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Santa Cruz County First 5 Commission and the Santa Cruz County Child Welfare System Improvement Plan Steering Committee. During that time, he led an overhaul of the County’s child welfare system, allowing disenfranchised youth of Santa Cruz County to have a voice in their future. Stone was sworn in to represent the 29th Assembly District on December 3. His district includes the communities of Monterey, Marina, Pacific Grove, Sand City, Seaside, Capitola, Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley and a portion of San Jose. n

Animal Shelter Officer Rescues Cat O n Monday January 7, 2013 at 5 p.m., Officer Michael Sharp with the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter responded to assist with a cat stuck in a fence at the Morrissey Post Office on Morrissey Avenue in Santa Cruz. Upon arrival, Officer Sharp found an obese black cat wedged between two steel posts of a fence on the Post Office property. The cat had apparently tried to squeeze through, had her hips caught and was unable to

free herself. Officer Sharp carefully assisted in rescuing the cat from the fence, and brought her to the Animal Shelter. Once at the shelter the cat was found to have a microchip, and the animal owners were immediately notified. “Feline obesity is nothing to laugh about,” states Field Services Manager Todd Stosuy. “This cat used one of its nine lives today, and thankfully officer Sharp was there to rescue her before she used

anymore.” Obese cats not only risk getting stuck in fences or other tight spots, but they have a greater chance of suffering from diabetes, arthritis, shortness of breath, heart disease and shortened life spans. Owners of cats should always make sure not to allow their animals to eat too much, and they should always be provided high quality food to ensure the animals maintain a healthy weight. “This cat is very fortunate to not only have been rescued by Officer Sharp, but to have been microchipped,” Field Services Manager Todd Stosuy further states.

“Animals who are microchipped can be immediately reunited with their families when lost. This is especially critical when an animal is injured or suffering and needs his/her family to take care of them.” n ••• The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter offers low cost microchipping for $25 per pet for residents of Santa Cruz County. The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter has two locations, one at 2200 7th Avenue in Santa Cruz and one at 580 Airport Boulevard in Watsonville. The phone number is 454-7303 and website is www.scanimalshelter.org.

Winter Fun

“Expo” from page 24 The Winter Reskilling Expo features a TimeBank Foodie SkillShare, featuring bread baking, Cajun/Creole cooking, raw food recipes and samples, dehydrated food tips and techniques, chicken-keeping advice and a Cooking Box demo. (A Cooking Box is a no-fuss way to cook grains and save energy.) The foods prepared for the demo during the Mixer will

“Foundation” from page 22 Jerry served on the board of Community Bridges for 14 years. He was also a volunteer for Pajaro Valley Loaves and Fishes and Women Crisis Support-Defensa de Mujeres. Jerry attended UC Santa Cruz. He and his wife, Ana Espinoza, live in Santa Cruz. “Our board made good choices in

be offered for refreshments. The TimeBank Mixer also offers information on how to join, live music from local singer/songwriter Jayme Kelly Curtis, face painting, improv games and the TimeBank Puppet Show. n ••• The Reskilling Expo is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. More information is available at http://reskillingexpo.org and at http://santacruz.timebanks.org.

recruiting these two,” said CEO Lance Linares. “They know our county and the people we work with,” Linares said. “Plus, they bring with them financial expertise and connections to other advisors that will help us and local residents in their giving,” he added. n ••• More information at www.cfscc. org/2013NewBoard or 831.662.2030.

ACROSS

1. Mt. Everest, McKinley and such 6. Cleopatra’s cause of death 9. Crack in a lip 13. *Hot toddy, e.g. 14. Former Chinese communist leader 15. Glowed or beamed 16. Pronouncements 17. “___ to Joy” 18. Bird of prey weapon 19. Hungarian composer Bela ______ 21. *Popular winter sculpture 23. Thus far 24. Greenish blue

25. Former refrigerant 28. *A snow____ is one for trekking on snow 30. Astronomer’s sighting 35. Miners’ bounty, pl. 37. One who “____ on the safe side” 39. Start eating! 40. Heaven’s Gate, e.g. 41. 1:3, e.g. 43. Captured in fun 44. “Well-_____ machine” 46. Falls behind 47. Like tiny print 48. Like number 1 to hydrogen 50. Cuzco valley empire 52. Jack Kerouac’s Paradise 53. Pottery oven 55. Everybody or everything 57. *_______ break

61. Done after a trip 64. Wombs 65. Gas station abbreviation 67. Florida Key, e.g. 69. Turf, as opposed to surf 70. Unagi 71. *Heard on sleigh ride? 72. Cab blower 73. *Snow falls from it 74. Irregularly notched

DOWN

1. Sum it up 2. Where a baby goes 3. Maryland Institute College of Art 4. Diary note 5. *Used for gliding 6. In a frenzy 7. “___ but true” 8. Literature in metrical form

9. Tobacco mouthful 10. River islet 11. Dwarf buffalo 12. In the Ivy League 15. Pitted peach, e.g. 20. Not the same one 22. Indian restaurant staple 24. Feeling no doubt 25. *Hot treat 26. *Ingredient in infamous cake 27. Played by Yo-Yo Ma 29. Kind of surgeon 31. Marty McFly’s antagonist 32. Tangerine-grapefruit hybrid, pl. 33. Tarzan’s swing rope 34. *Snow impression 36. Kind of cell 38. *Capricorn or Aquarius, e.g.

42. Extinct Italic language 45. Tiny antelope 49. Result of Truman’s National Security Act of 1947 51. *Kind of skiing 54. Ancient Greeks’ harps 56. Lightsaber beam 57. Be quiet! 58. “The Simpsons” palindrome 59. Malicious look 60. Ayatollah’s home 61. Pre-swan state? 62. Greek muse of history 63. Party casks 66. Expresses mild alarm or surprise 68. “___ End” by The Doors © Statepoint Media

Answers on 31 »

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Bears, bears and more bears … No Bears

By Meg McKinlay Illustrated by Leila Rudge Candlewick Press. $15.99 (Ages 3-6) his is Ella’s book and she states right at the beginning that this will be a book that doesn’t have any bears in it. Right! No bears? Come on now! Everyone loves bears in books. They go together like furry paws and honey or wet noses and teddy hugs! E l l a thinks she can exclude bears from her book but we’ll see. Sure she can have fairies and princesses. Perhaps there will be a giant or some type of monster. Maybe you’ll find on these pages a fairy godmother, a girl in a red cape, an owl or even a witch riding a broom. But can Ella really keep bears out of her book? Hmmm, perhaps, but I wouldn’t bet on it! Riffing on well-known fairy-tale themes, Meg McKinlay has fun with this offbeat picture book and so will you and your child. The playful illustrations with a running visual joke will keep bear lovers smiling from start to finish. Imagine, a storybook with no bears! What nonsense!

Ten months old, the cub is going to have to fend for herself on an island with far too many other bears. With global warming, the ice pack the polar bears normally live on has diminished and this island is suddenly too crowded. Finding food becomes a real chore for the cub, but if she is to survive, she must adapt to the conditions and live off what she can scavenge. Eventually, the conditions change and a blizzard arrives. Slowly the ice pack returns and there’s more room to roam and find food. Based on a true story, you’ll find more about polar bears and the changing conditions they must cope with at the end of this picture book. This would be an ideal book to use to begin a study of either climate change or the lives of polar bears.

Bears in Beds

By Shirley Parenteau Illustrated by David Walker Candlewick. $15.99 (Ages 2-5) pen this picture book and you’ll immediately discover five empty beds. Now whose beds could these be? Why they are bear beds! It will be up to Big Brown Bear to get his four little bears into their beds for the night. This won’t be an easy task but Big

By Leigh Hodgkinson Nosy Crow. $ 15.99 (Ages 3 and up) ere’s a takeoff of the traditional tale of “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” that will have young readers giggling from start to finish. Hopefully you remember Baby Bear from the original story. That little bear has grown up now and he accidentally wanders into the big city. Put off by all he encounters on the city streets, the bear darts into a high-rise building to find some quiet. He takes the elevator to the 18th floor, and finds an empty apartment where he decides to find a snack and take a little snooze. The reenactment of the original tale of Goldilocks wandering into the three bears’ home now follows with some hilarious consequences. Of course, the final outcome centers on the reuniting of two famous characters who have changed quite a bit in the intervening years. Make sure you have read the original tale to your child a few times before you share this spin-off with the youngster. If you don’t, the “Just One Bear” version will fall a bit flat!

Bear in Love

Waiting for Ice

By Sandra Markle Illustrated by Alan Marks Charlesbridge. $15.95 (Ages 5 and up) n this picture book, the reader will visit Wrangle Island, a spit of land in the Arctic Ocean. An orphaned polar bear cub must try to survive after being separated from her mother.

Goldilocks and Just One Bear

Brown Bear eventually gets Yellow Bear, Fuzz Bear, Calico Bear and Floppy Bear tucked in. Then they all get a kiss good-night. “Whoosh!” Oh my, what was that? “Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!” Something has awakened Big Brown Bear. What could it be? Check the little bears’ beds. Goodness, they are empty! It looks like Big Brown Bear will have to start all over again. How he settles the cubs down is rather clever and you’ll have to read this delightful, rhymed, read-aloud storybook to see what he comes up with. It’s a technique parents have used for years and it works like a charm.

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By Daniel Pinkwater Illustrated by Will Hillenbrand Candlewick. $15.99 (Ages 2-6) ne day bear finds a carrot pm a rock outside his cave. “It smells nice. It might be good to eat. It is c r u n c h y. It tastes good, too! Yu m ! ” says bear. Bear is delighted with his discovery. The next day bear finds two carrots

outside his cave. And so it goes. Each day more carrots and then some blueberries appear. Obviously, bear has a secret friend. He decides to reciprocate by leaving some tasty treats like honey and a candy bar on the rock for whoever is leaving him his delicious goodies. Will bear eventually meet this secret friend? Of course, but you’ll have to read this picture book to learn who that person might be. This charming and nicely illustrated story about the unexpected kindness of a secret admirer will touch the hearts of young and old readers alike. Don’t be surprised if “Bear in Love” becomes an instant hit in your household and ends up on the list of favorite bedtime reads!

A Birthday for Bear

By Bonny Becker Illustrated by Kady MacDonald Denton Candlewick. $16.99 (Ages 4 and up) eissued in a slightly smaller version, this Bear and Mouse picture book has become a classic. Bear doesn’t like birthdays. He doesn’t care for parties, balloons, cards, silly songs or even cake with candles. No, Bear definitely does not celebrate birthdays! So, even though today is bear’s birthday, he intends to ignore it. Not so fast! Bear’s friend Mouse has no intention of letting this special day slip away without a celebration. Mouse tries delivering a birthday card to Bear. “It’s not my birthday!’ is Bear’s response and then he sweeps Mouse out the door. Next, Mouse tries some balloons. No, that doesn’t work either. Getting more creative, Mouse dresses up like Santa, slides down Bear’s chimney and hands Bear a gift. Nope! Bear is not fooled by the little, bogus Santa. Finally, Mouse’s persistence pays off and he succeeds and breaks down his friend’s resistance. How Mouse does this you’ll see as you read this humorous account of Bear’s non-birthday that actually turns into a very festive occasion. n

DFG Becomes CDFW

he California Department of Fish and Game (DFG) is now the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). The new name was mandated by AB 2402, which was signed Sept. 25 by Gov. Edmund G. Brown Jr. and is one of numerous provisions passed into law during 2012 that affect the department. “The name of the department was changed to better reflect our evolving responsibilities,” said Department Director Charlton H. Bonham. “As our role has grown to meet 21st century expectations, we remain

committed to our traditional responsibilities and to honoring our deep roots in California’s natural resources legacy.” Traditionallyknown as game wardens, the department’s law enforcement staff will now be called wildlife officers. Californians will notice new Internet (www.wildlife.ca.gov) and e-mail addresses

for CDFW employees. The old URL and email addresses will continue to work indefinitely. Many department materials will continue to bear the old name because AB 2402 reduced the cost associated with the name change by preventing CDFW from undergoing a wholesale turnover of materials, including signs, uniforms and supplies.

The mission of the department continues to be “to manage California’s diverse fish, wildlife, and plant resources, and the habitats upon which they depend, for their ecological values and for their use and enjoyment by the public.” In furtherance of that mission, the department carries out numerous responsibilities related to the commercial, recreational, educational and scientific use and enjoyment of California’s natural resources. n

California Gasoline and Diesel Demand Fell in Third Quarter SACRAMENTO — California’s gasoline consumption declined 1.3 percent in the third quarter of 2012, according to fuel tax data released by Betty T. Yee, First District Member of the California State Board of Equalization (BOE). Diesel consumption declined 4.9 percent in the third quarter of 2012.

“Third quarter consumption shows Californian’s usage is still sensitive to the impact of gas and diesel prices on family budgets,” said Yee. BOE’s fuel tax report shows Californians consumed 3.68 billion gallons of gasoline in the third quarter of 2012, a 1.3 percent decline from the 3.73 billion

gallons consumed during the third quarter of 2011. In California, the average price of gasoline in the third quarter of 2012 was $4.05 per gallon. Nationally, the average price of gasoline in the third quarter was $3.73, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). In September 2012, California’s gas-

oline consumption declined 1.4 percent while the average price increased 24 cents to $4.21 per gallon. n ••• For more information on California fuel statistics or reports based on fuel tax receipts paid by distributors in California, visit: www. boe.ca.gov/sptaxprog/spftrpts.htm

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 15th 2012 / 27

Monday: 2:00 - 3:30pm Wednesday: 5:30 – 7:00pm Conference Room at Elena Baskin/ Live Oak Senior Center, 1777-A Capitola Rd, Santa Cruz Nar-Anon acilitated by Jill Ginghofer, this hat is co-dependency? What group is for caregivers and is enabling? What is this members of people with insanity? Am I the only one who family feels this way? Join Nar-Anon, a Alzheimers. world wide fellowship of relatives and friends of addicts who have Tuesdays been affected by someone else’s Women Care Drop in Cancer addiction. Three meetings are Support now being held in Santa Cruz rop in Support Group is a County, on Sundays, Tuesdays, gathering for women with all and Fridays. For a meeting near you call (888) types of cancer. We offer support for women through all stages from 374-1164 or email diagnoses through treatment. saveyoursanity@aol.com For more information or to Visit http://nar-anon.org/Narregister call (831) 457-2273 Anon/California.html for more information.

Announcements

Mid-County Pony Baseball

egistration for the spring season is now open. Recreational baseball league for 13-14 year olds and under with games at the Polo Grounds in Aptos. Registration deadline is January 23. Player registration packets available at www.midcountypony. com.

Ongoing Events Mondays thru Fridays

Svaroopa® Yoga Classes

See website for times, Deerpark Shopping Center, 783 Rio Del Mar Blvd. Aptos es, you can do yoga! With the support of blankets, beginning students relax into easy poses designed to release to deepest tensions in the body along the spine. Discover this unique form of Hatha yoga that deeply relaxes, quiets the mind, reduces pain, accelerates injury recovery, and promotes better over all health. For more information, visit www. aptosyoga.org, or call (831) 688-1019

First Mondays

Great Decisions Lecture Series

7:00pm-8:30pm, Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist, 125 Canterbury Dr. Aptos ecture series on “Great Decisions”, put out by The Foreign Policy Association. Lectures led by Dr. Laina Farhat-Holzman, sponsored by Santa Cruz Branch, American Association of University Women (AAUW). For more information, call Lois Holcomb (831) 688-0541.

Second and Fourth Mondays First and Third Wednesdays

Alzheimers Support Groups

Drop in Grief Support

6:00pm at Aegis, 125 Heather Terrace, Aptos oin other adults who are grieving the death of a friend or family member. Learn helpful tools for coping: Share stories and receive support from people who care. No registration required, please call (831) 430-3000

encouraged. To RSVP call 761-2956 Ext. 102, or email Danielle@casaofsantacruz.org

Second Tuesdays each month

Free Job Seek Workshop!

6:00pm-7:00pm, Gateway Bible Church, 5000 Granite Creek Rd. Scotts Valley For more information, visit http://hirewire.org

PFLAG

Community Calendar

House, 225 Rooney St. Santa Cruz For more information, visit www.meetup.com/santacruzfreedom-forum/

Thursdays

Capitola-Aptos Rotary Club Meeting

12-1:30 p.m. at Seascape Golf Course. Contact Doug at 831- 724-9192 or e-mail dnakashima@razzolink. com for more information.

(Parents, Families, and Friends of Overeaters Anonymous Lesbians and Gays) 1:00-2:00pm, Louden Nelson 7:00pm-9:00pm, 900 High St. First Congregational Church of Santa Cruz To learn more, call (831) 4274016 or visit www.pflagscc.org

Community Center, Rm. 5 301 Center St. Santa Cruz For more information, call (831) 429-7906

Wednesdays

Veterans of Foreign Wars

Toastmasters: Speak for Success

Second Thursdays each month

6:30 pm, 2259 7th Ave. Santa Cruz 12:00pm-1:00pm, St. Philip’s ommander Ronals Petty leads the meetings. Episcopal Church, 5271 Scotts For more information, call (831) Valley Drive, Scotts Valley. iving a business presentation? 475-9804 Interviewing for a job? Improve your speaking skills in a Second and Fourth Thursdays friendly, supportive environment Ocean Gate Zen Center Cabrillo Host Lions Club with Redwood Ramblers Toast7:00pm. 920 41st Ave. Suite 7:00pm at the Cabrillo Commasters. Open to all levels. B, Santa Cruz (next to Family munity Center, Aptos Village Drop-ins welcome. For more Cycling Center) Park, 100 Aptos Creek Rd. lease join us on Tues. evenings information, call 831-335-3693. ublic is invited to all programs. at 7pm for two 30 min. periods Contact President Jess Allen Overeaters Anonymous of sitting meditation with a 10 min 831-684-2721 or Past President 6:30-7:30pm at Teach by the walking meditation in between, Barbara Chamberlain at 831Beach #50 Rancho Del Mar, 688-3356 for meeting/dinner followed by tea and discussion. reservations or information or visit Aptos Zazen instruction 6:30pm first For more information, call (831) www.cabrillohostlions.org. Tues. of each month. Morning 429-7906 meditation schedule Tues. & Third Thursday each month Thurs. 6:45am & Sat. 8:30am followed by “Come As You Are Zen.” First Wednesday each month Pacific Speakers Association Visit oceangatezen.org for more 7:00pm, Firehouse on Soquel Dr. Child Welfare Review info. Aptos 6:00pm- 9:00pm 1400 Emeline peakers helping speakers get First Tuesdays each month Avenue room 206, Santa Cruz. gigs. he orientation is designed to Tail Wagging World of Dog review the child welfare system Call (831) 332-8221 for more Ownership and to give you a chance to have information. 6:30pm at the Santa Cruz SPCA, your question answered by child 2685 Chanticleer Ave., Santa welfare staff. Cruz (cross street is Soquel Ave.). To register to one of the meetings Fridays Clutterers Anonymous and for directions, please call 5:30-6:45 Sutter Maternity & 454-4024. First Tuesdays and Surgical Center, 2900 Chanticleer Third Wednesdays each month Ave, Soquel Dr. Santa Cruz. Coastal Professionals Orientations to Become ired of Clutter? Stuff piling 8:00am to 9:30am at Aptos up? Support is available. CLA Advocates for Children History Museum, Old Dominion North County, 5:30-7p.m., first Court, Aptos. Tuesday of month (for location earn tips and make connecdetails contact Danielle at 761tions. Local professionals 2956 X102) South County, 5:30-7 meet weekly to focus on business p.m., third Wednesday of the building and collaboration. month at the CASA Office, 813 Interested business owners, Freedom Blvd. Watsonville independent professionals and ASA (Court Appointed guests welcome. Special Advocates) of Santa For more information: 621-1153, Cruz County needs your help. www.CoastalProfessionals.net Volunteer 3-5 hours per week to provide support, guidance, and a powerful voice in court for Second and Fourth Wednesdays children who have been removed from their homes because of abuse Freedom Forum Presents: or neglect. Everyone welcome, Constitution Classes men and bilingual folks especially 7:00pm, Quaker Friends Meeting

28 / January 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

eating compulsively. All are Ave., Santa Cruz. welcome. oin Corey Miller, Licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist, Free childcare with advance reservation by 5pm, Fridays. Call for an informative session on how to stay healthy through (831) 429-7906. Saturdays these cold winter months. Learn how to eat for warmth, and Aptos Certified Farmers Market select the right remedies for cold 8:00 -12:00pm at Cabrillo College, Church Bible Study/Worship 9:45am: Bible Study; 11:00: care and vitamins for sustained Aptos. health. Registration includes a he Aptos Market, with over 80 Worship, First Baptist Church take-home wellness kit to get 7565 Sunset Way, Aptos vendors, is open year round, you started on a path to optimal with the best selections of fresh ooking for a church? Come health this year. fruits and vegetables, plants, worship with us! Preregistration required. Register seedlings, flowers, local honey, at www.newleaf.com or call fresh eggs, fresh fish, artisan baked goods and gourmet foods. In 831.426.1306 x0. addition, family activities, music, cooking demos by professional CHADD ADHD Meeting chefs, gardening workshops, hosted by Lynda Meeder seasonal fairs and events are a part Tuesday January 22 6:30-8:00pm, Mar Vista Elementary of the market. School, 6860 Soquel Dr. Aptos Branch Sons In oga and how its practice Scotts Valley Farmer’s Market Retirement Luncheon Meeting can help children with 9a.m.-1p.m. SV Community 11:30am,Severino’s Restaurant, Center, 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos ADHD, even children, will be 360 Kings Village Drive peaker will be Ron Freund on the topic of discussion when www.santacruzfarmersmarket.org All Electric Car and specifically the Santa Cruz CHADD ADHD is it practical for commuting from Support Group hosts Lynda Meeder, Director of Children’s this side of the “hill”? Ron has Come As You Are Zen Yoga at Luma Yoga and 9-10:30 am, Ocean Gate Zendo, owned one for 14 years. Retired and bored? Come join us “Just for Family Center. Come wearing 920 41st Ave. Suite B, Santa comfortable clothes for a yoga the fun of it”. Cruz (next to Family Cycling demonstration following the Call 688-0977 for information. Center) presentation. ome as you are Zen focuses For more information, contact on Buddhist practices that Judy Brenis at jbbrenis@comcast. enhance our daily lives. This will Tuesday January 22 be an informal talk with time for Financial Investing Featured net or call (831) 684-0590. discussion. Free — donations Topic at Capitola Soroptimist’s accepted. January Meeting Thursday Jan 31 Visit oceangatezen.org for more 6:00pm, Live Oak Family info. Open House / Science Fair Resource Center, 1740 17th Ave. 6 - 8 p.m., Aptos Academy, 1940 hristine McBroom, an Bonita Dr. Santa Cruz Bingo award-winning financial eet our wonderful teachers, 4:00pm, 707 Fair Ave. Santa advisor with Edward Jones tour our facility, and browse Cruz Investments, will be the guest through the Science Fair while anta Cruz Bingo supports local charity. All games have a speaker. She will discuss how finding out how our school could minimum of a $150 prize, smaller investors can determine the be just what you’ve been looking most appropriate financial crowds mean you have better for! odds. strategy for themselves and Call 688-1080 for more For more information, visit www. their families as well as how to information, or to set up a tour at santacruzbingo.com or email achieve retirement goals. a more convenient time. info@santacruzbingo.com. You For more information, or to join www.aptosacademy.org can also call (831) 427-1007 and the Soroptimists, visit www. press 4. best4women.org, or contact SI Capitola at info@best4women.org. Saturday February 2 meeting every Friday. For more info call 426-1868 FREE

Dated Events

Sundays

Over-Eaters Anonymous

Wednesday Jan 23

6 pm – 7:30 pm. $20. New Leaf Community Markets, 1101 Fair

9:00am-10:15am, Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center, 2900 Chanticleer Ave. Sc. A is a 12-step support group for those who wish to stop

Lecture: Winter Wellness and Immunity

Docent Training Class

3:00pm, San Lorenzo Valley Museum his 1 hour class will cover he basics of opening.closing the museum, greeting visitors, bookstore sales, exhibits, handling research questions and more. For more information, contact Lynda at (831) 338-8382

Sunday February 3 Exhibit Training Class

1:00pm, San Lorenzo Valley Musuem xhibit training classes will be held to cover the story that each exhibit tells and the history surrounding that story. For more information, contact Lynda at (831) 338-8382 n

Arts & Entertainment

Announcements Sleight of Hand!

January 16th - February 17th Opening reception January 20th, 2:00pm-4:00pm Regular hours: WednesdaySunday, 11:00am-4:00pm. eaturing 400 small format pieced by 54 fabulous fine artists, this exhibit is stunning! Patrons will be able to take home pieces as they are purchased. Artists will renew their grouping throughout the show, so visit more than once to see how the exhibit changes.

pizza, breadsticks, drink, friends, and trivia! Who could ask for more?

Tuesdays and Weekends

Live Music on the Esplanade

Paradise Beach Grille 215 Esplanade, Capitola. ive music weekends and acoustic guitar Tuesdays. For schedule and more information: (831) 476-4900 Or visit paradisebeachgrille.com

Pisces (Feb. 19-Mar. 20)

Dealing with large organizations, groups, and friends of like mind is a major feature for the first half of the month. Group projects and collective endeavours are where you are spending your energies more creatively. Later, take note of your inner visions and intuition since this is a time for you to collect your thoughts and take note of your dreams. Variety is key this month and you are likely to have a lot different and unusual experiences. this comes form the diverse people who are now part of your life. being part of a community takes on new significance.

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

Wednesdays

This is a great time of year for you, Taurus as the Sun shines a light on your desire for travel and opportunity. You have high hopes and optimism and are busy making plans well into the year. You are glad that 2012 is now history and can look forward to a more profitable and productive time. Intriguing developments around your love life instill excitement and change here, but in a way that you would wish. This is excellent for those seeking new love . Venus, your ruler, will be spending much of this month in Capricorn, which is helpful and lucrative with regard to foreign connections.

Peninsula Banjo Band

Ongoing Events

Mars, the action planet, is in your sign for the whole of this month. This can be brilliant for new ventures, initiating the start of a different lifestyle and helps with taking on board new challenges. You are more forceful and determined and will be proactive in making happen what needs to happen. Others may even accuse you of being a little bossy, but you are not willing to put up with inaction. The Sun enters your sign from the 20th and a Full Moon in your opposite sign could be significant for relationships at the end of January. Your powers of communication are brilliant.

Aries (March 21-April 20)

Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb. 18)

What you set out to do you can achieve because of your determination and persistence. Developments in your career plan are beginning to take shape at last. You feel especially creative at the start of the month and see no barriers or obstacles. This instill confidence in others and so you generate quite a momentum. The Full Moon on the 27th favours your social life and celebrations, but a change of scene is as good as a rest and you make the most of this by seeking out the unusual and unconventional. Life becomes extremely interesting after the 20th.

7:00 - 8:30 p.m., Harry’s Hofbrau, 390 Saratoga Ave, San Jose orty-seven years of performing in the Bay Area, over 250 popular tunes. Come see our The Santa Cruz County Actors’ band for Free in Sunnyvale Every Theatre Presents Wednesday. No cover. Short Play Festivals Contact Lee McLaughlin, Booking anta Cruz County Actors’ Agent, at 408-993-BAND (2263) Theatre presents 8 Tens @ Eight for information about booking Second Fridays each month and The best of the Rest, short the band for Non-profit events Big Band Dance play festivals. This line-up offers (donations are tax deductible). 7:30pm-10:00pm, at Mid-County a varied selection of hilarious www.PeninsulaBanjoBand.org Senior Center 829 Bay Ave, comedies and insightful dramas. Capitola 8 Tens @ Eight opens January 4th Last Thursdays each month allroom dancing to live and runs until January 27th. The music by The 10th Ave. Best of the Rest opens January 31st Monthly Argentine Tango at Star Band. Refreshments, large Bene Italian/Argentine Restarante and runs through February 3rd. floor, friendly atmosphere, free For times and tickets, visit www. 4:30pm-9:30pm, Star Bene parking. Open to the publicItalian/Argentene Restarante, sccat.org. Buy your tickets early! singles welcome! 21245 East Cliff Dr. Suggested donation, $6 per his is a night for true “Social Annual BATA Fashion Show at person. Proceeds benefit MCSC. Order a wonderful Watsonville High needs donations! mealTango.” from the Star Bene Argentine For more information, call (831) he Business and Technology Menu, (or their well known italian 476-4711. Academy of Watsonville High menu), and enjoy the ambiance of Fourth Friday each month School will be hosting their annual Argentina and join us in a social Musical Me Inc. fashion show. They are looking tango dance to music from the Family Jam Night for local boutiques and clothing Golden Age of Tango. stores to donate or lend clothes for Private instruction and classes by 6:30-8:30p.m. 239 High St., Santa Cruz. their show. arrangement. For more information, ring your favorite music to The Fashion Show will take call Michael (831) 239-2247. dance to and any instruplace on Feb. 23rd in the Mello First Fridays each month ments you’d like to share or If you are interested in participerform with. Sliding Scale pating, contact Barbara Castro at First Friday Art Tour donation per family of $10-$25 he First Friday Art Tour castro_barbara@hotmail.com, or (all proceeds going to our is a Santa Cruz Institute by calling (831) 239-7258. scholarship fund.) of Contemporary Arts event, For more information call 831managed in conjunction with the participating art venues. The 438-3514. event takes place year-round and illuminates some of the most Fourth Saturdays each month talented local artists from local Writers and Poets Open Mike Tuesdays galleries. 2:00pm-4:00pm, Porter Memorial BINGO To find out where to Library, 3050 Porter St. Soquel 6:30 p.m. Santa Cruz Elks Lodge, participate in a First Friday (no meeting Jan., July, Aug. or 150 Jewell St. art tour, visit firstfridayDec.) osted by Soquel Sports santacruz.com (Most galleries riters and Poets are invited Foundation. Buy-In $25. are open 12-9 pm for First to a new monthly open Also, we have a special BINGO, Friday viewings.) mike reading series. Come and celebrating our 2nd anniversary, read your fiction, essays, or on Sept. 28 at 6:30. Buy-in only First and Third Fridays poetry. $15. For more information, call Jean at Friday Shakespeare Club www.soquelsports.com (831) 475-4221 10:30am-12:30pm, First Congregational Church, 900 High Free Trivia St. Santa Cruz Saturdays 7:00pm, Boulder Creek Pizza For more information, visit Live Jazz and Local Art and Pub, 13200 State Route 9, www.fridayshakespeare.org, at Zizzo’s Coffee Boulder Creek call Kris at (831) 421-0930 or 11:30am-1:30pm, Zizzo’s Coffee, reat fun and prizes too! Come Nanette at (831) 438-3615. 3555 Clare’s St. Capitola and enjoy some amazing

Your January Horoscope

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

isten to live jazz featuring members of the Santa Cruz Jazz Society. So many talented musicians and singers! And an exhibit of local art will be featured 7 days a week. For more information, contact Christine Shelton-Anderson at (755) 544-5651.

Dated Events Sunday January 20

Santa Cruz Chocolate Festival

1:00pm-4:00pm, Cocoanut Grove, 400 Beach St. elp provide college scholarships, and indulge in the finest local chocolates. The US Santa Cruz Women’s Club presents its sixth annual Santa Cruz Chocolate Festival. Learn more by visiting http:// womensclub.ucsc.edu/fundraising/chocolate-festival/index. html.

wine, light snacks, and fifty dollars in chips; prizes for top winners. Call 688-1080 to reserve your seat! www.aptosacademy.org

Saturday January 26

Linda Tillery and the Culture Heritage Choir

8:00pm, Kuumbwa Jazz Center, 320 Cedar Street Santa Cruz ur own Tammi Brown joins the group for this special celebration. Tickets are $22. For more information, visit www. culturalheritagechoir.com.

Friday February 1 First Friday Art Tour

5:30-8:00pm, Santa Cruz County Government Center, 701 Ocean St. irst Friday will feature the artwork of Efren Adalem, Karen Asherah, Vera Hansen, Erike Perloff, and Melinda Picatti.

Saturday February 9 Wednesday January 23 Migration Festival 17th Annual Gail Rich Awards

11:00am-4:00pm, Natural Bridges State Beach earn about the migration patterns of butterflies, whales, and birds. Day will include activities, skits, games, and live music! For more info, visit http://parks. ca.gov/?page_id=26414.

7:30pm, Rio Theatre in Santa Cruz he Gailies is a free and open to the public celebration of our artistic community. Applaud the artists who inspire us in this uplifting, frequently raucous, and always entertaining event.

Saturday Jan 26

Clam Chowder Cook-off and Festival

Golden West Casino Night

7 -11 p.m., Aptos Academy Auditorium, 1940 Bonita Dr. ome try your luck while you support our school’s youthful arts! Tickets are $40 and include chips, a glass of

Saturday February 23 Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk ttend this fabulous fundraiser and taste delicious variations of clam chowder! Proceeds go to benefit the Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Department. n

While it is traditional in the New Year to let go of the past and welcome the new, this has special significance now as important milestones are encountered . This is a result of your own efforts but also indicative of the natural progression of those around you. Because you are naturally adaptable, you look forward to change, whereas others are a little wary of what is necessary. You are thinking outside the box from the 20th and can look forward to a better financial situation from the 9th. Your clever ideas are paying off at last.

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

There are plenty of helpful influences around for you, including friends and loved ones and a new optimism that makes life easier and simpler. You accept that two heads are better than one and feel less like shouldering responsibilities on your own. With this in mind, you appreciate those who it would have been so easy to take for granted. New beginnings are possible on the 11th and a situation comes to a head on the 27th with the Leo Full Moon. Have your say mid month since you are most influential at this time.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 23)

Taking charge of a situation requires that you know exactly where you stand and what you believe in. This becomes more evident from the 20th where partnership matters are highlighted and Full Moon in your sign at the end of the month is a turning point for you. Before then, practical matters take precedence and you are dealing with paper work and officialdom but it is all for a good reason. You find time for a more active social life as you less focused on one particular project as you see it through to its conclusion.

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sep. 22)

You are pleased with how this month works out and you would be right to think that you deserve a break. There is a sense of balance once more as your previous efforts are paying off. Useful discussion translate into workable solutions that make life a lot easier, but no less interesting. It is this month when you can make plans and decisions about what you want to see more of and you start with masses of enthusiasm. Maintaining this is the hard bit. Your ruler, Mercury, in Aquarius from the 19th is a time for health and well being to be a top priority.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 23)

When you see that to a certain extent you are limited, this gives rise to workable solutions based on what you can do rather than what you can’t do. This is extremely valuable as you are more focused and as such have a clearer idea of what is necessary. Recent research is paying off as you have been on a voyage of discovery. Nevertheless, your own experience counts for more than you realise so don’t underestimate what you are truly capable of. The work life balance is something that needs to be considered throughout January.

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Useful connections are made at the start of the month and those chance encounters can lead to greater friendships and relationships. Somehow, being in the right place at the right time has a whole new meaning. You may or may not understand the importance of resolutions, but you do have a clear idea of what you want more of in the coming year. Travel is becoming increasingly significant, although this does not mean global travel. Ideas and discussions with others begin to shape your future expectations.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

You may feel as though you are having more than you wish of deja vu moments, as you revisit old situations and circumstances. But now you have the benefit of hindsight so can be more relaxed and certain about outcomes. Relationships are a work in progress and new understandings come from important discussions. Practical and financial matters feature this month too, and you get the opportunity to increase your income with an unusual proposition. The Full Moon at the end of the month brings to light a brilliant possibility.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20)

This is the time of year which is a new year for you as well as everyone else, since the Sun is in your sign. Making plans and setting out your goals comes easier to you than most as you love to having something to look forward to and plan. At the start, you have a new determination and your intentions are set but you have more choice than you realise about what is important. This could bring about interesting discussions with your other half. Your finances are looking good at the start of January, even after the Christmas period! Some of you may have got that promotion you were hoping for! •••

Find Out More www.AnnabelBurton.tv

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 15th 2012 / 29

PACIFIC FENCE Quality Work - Competitive Prices Over 20 years experience

CRAIG ANDERSON Owner Office & Fax: 831-684-0957 CA license # 708339 Website: www.Pacific-Fence.net

Setting up a home office that fuels productivity O ne of the biggest mistakes businesspeople make is assuming that working from home will automatically result in a higher level of productivity. Unless you carefully construct your home office environment, you may find that working from home is less productive than you anticipated. Staples office products company offers the following tips for setting up your home office to help maximize your productivity. The ideal working environment ome office setup is an exercise in knowing yourself. Before you make any decisions, make a list of the things you need to spur productivity. Some people can work at a desk in a common area of the house with the television running in the background. Others want a closed-door environment where distractions are minimized. For some people, a home office is a place to finish up work from a regular day job. For others, a home office is a primary workspace where they spend eight or more hours of the day. Before you start rearranging the furniture, decide what you need as an absolute minimum to encourage you to use the space as intended. The right office furniture, equipment and supplies nce you have decided whether you’re going to seg-

www.tpgonlinedaily.com 30 / January 15th 2012 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

regate an area of the living room, convert a spare bedroom or set yourself up in the basement or garage, you should start thinking about-home office furniture. The type of office furniture you pick and the way you organize your space will significantly impact your productivity. Whatever your preferences are, investing money up front in the style of office furniture that makes you comfortable will naturally lead to greater productivity. At the very least, this ensures that you won’t be tempted to relocate to the bedroom instead of working at your desk. Likewise, an upfront investment in office supplies and equipment will help you get your work done faster and avoid distractions. The cost of outfitting a home office basic home office setup can cost you under $500 if you already have a computer that you can relocate to your new space. There are a number of functional office furniture options that look expensive but are actually quite affordable, especially if you are willing to put the furniture together yourself. A printer and a phone with voicemail can round out a basic home office setup. A more advanced home office

setup would include a fax machine and a photocopier. Fortunately, there are 3-in-1 office machines that combine a-printer, fax and copier all in one-piece of equipment for under $300, saving you money and space. Keep in mind, however, that a machine that does many things often offers fewer features for each specific function. For example, if your work at home requires more than the occasional photocopy, it can be more efficient to buy a dedicated copy machine that has special functionality to handle a heavier workload. Don’t forget to set aside money in your home office budget for office supplies. From paper to paper clips, you will have to buy all of the little things that you took for granted when you worked for an employer. A home office is sometimes considered the Holy Grail for people who work. Who wouldn’t want a comfortable home oasis where commuting is a foreign concept and the work just gets done? To achieve home office nirvana, make a plan that is specifically designed to meet your individual needs and choose the right home office furniture, equipment and supplies to make your plan a reality. n Brandpoint Media

SPCA Featured Pet

Are you Hungry for Latke’s Love?

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his little fella braved the winds and rains as he scurried through the streets of Greenfield lost and alone. His coat was unkempt and badly matted, his paws worn down and bleeding, and his body very thin. He was found soaking wet and quivering at the doorstep of a friendly family who were cooking up some Latkes when they opened the door for this lost dog. They had no dog food so they gave him some of their homemade potato pancakes which he happily ate… and thus his name. When an owner wasn’t found, he came to Santa Cruz to find a new home. Latke is a two-year-old Maltese/Poodle mix with a buzz cut. However, he still has some tail fluff and waves it proudly. Latke looks quite dapper a winter sweater but will grow a nice new coat in time. This sweet boy is friendly with people of all ages and is not fearful. He enjoys being carried, walked, cuddled with and rides well in the car. With other dogs he can be a bit dominant but is learning to coexist and being at the shelter has helped his social ability. Cats scare him but he could easily learn to share a home with them. Obviously Latke is ADORABLE and quite fun to have around. He’s playful and loves to toss and chase his toys! Latke enjoys being up and about and would do best in an active home. His breed mix makes him a non-shedding dog but he does require regular grooming in order for his hair to stay manageable. Come and meet Latke and all the other wonderful poodle mixes at the Santa Cruz SPCA! Please consider donating to the Santa Cruz SPCA. The Santa Cruz SPCA is a 501c3 charitable organization and receives no government funding, relying solely on public donations to run its many programs that benefit the animals and people of our community. For more information call the Santa Cruz SPCA at 465-5000, or visit www.santacruzspca.org. The SPCA is located at 2685 Chanticleer Avenue in Santa Cruz, CA 95065 and is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 p.m. The SPCA Mall Adoption Center and Gift Shop is located at the Capitola Mall near Target and is open on Friday from 11am-5pm and Sat-Sun 11am-4pm. n

Fleas — The Year Round Pest T iny, black, blood sucking, merciless pests! I’m talking about Fleas. Keeping your pet and your house free of fleas is an important part of keeping your pet and human family happy and healthy. Not only do fleas cause incessant itching for your pets and family, they can be the cause of serious illness. Fleas transmit tapeworms and mycoplasma infections and commonly cause flea allergy dermatitis. Flea allergies can even cause vomiting of hairballs in cats secondary to chronic over grooming. But you don’t believe fleas can make people sick? 25 million people who died from “The Black Plague” might think otherwise. So how do we get rid of these little buggers? Thankfully, you can achieve this goal with two basic steps. The first step in ridding your pets and house of fleas is to treat every animal in the house with flea control medication year round. Yes, every pet and all year round. Even pets that don’t go outside need to be treated. I regularly see indoor only pets with flea infestations. Although spring and summer seem to be the worst, I treat patients with flea related medical problems at all times of the year in our area. I share many of my client’s wishes to minimize exposure to toxins or unnecessary medications and flea control products are no exception. These concerns must be balanced against the likely need to treat flea illness with more risky medications, such as steroids and antibiotics, when ineffective flea control is used. I am often saddened to see animals suffering from serious flea illness who were treated with ineffective flea remedies such as; flea collars, essential oil (neem, eucalyptus, tea tree, and citronella) and grocery store “spot on” flea products. Not only do these products not work well, some of them can be very toxic or even deadly. During my decade long career as an emergency veterinarian, I was often faced with patients suffering serious toxicity from these products which are falsely marketed as less expensive and more natural alternatives to prescription veterinary flea products. Treating one episode of flea allergy dermatitis with your veterinarian is likely to be more costly than a year supply of the best flea medication. Treating one episode of toxicity could be more costly than a lifetime of any flea medication for one pet. Fortunately, newer flea medications available from your veterinarian are very safe, extremely effective and break down quickly in the environment.

For dogs, I recommend Comfortis® or Trifexis®, which contain the active flea ingredient Spinosad. This product actually won a green chemistry award for its development and, since it is administered orally, can’t wash off in baths or the ocean. This a major advantage for our local canine beach bums. For cats, I recommend Revolution topical treatment. Trifexis® and Revolution® protect your pets from heartworms and intestinal worms in addition to their excellent flea control properties. Despite the amazing efficacy of these newer flea products, they will fail if you overlook the next step; the need to treat the environment. These little buggers know how to breed! A single female flea can lay thousands of eggs (up to 50 a day) in her lifetime. Therefore, treating the house and yard is a must to prevent these eggs from developing into hungry adults. I recommend Fleabusters® powder to treat the house and Fleabusters® nematodes to treat the yard. These are non-toxic products that are much more effective than dangerous flea bombs and insecticide yard sprays. They don’t require a prescription and are available from your veterinarian or through the website: http://www.fleabuster.com/. Although a flea is not zoologically speaking a “Bug,” nothing could describe them better. No need to bug out though. Just follow the two steps to stay sane and healthy; treat every pet year round and treat the environment. n ••• Dr. May is the owner and Medical Director of Capitola Veterinary Hospital, 1220 H 41st Avenue Capitola. Tel #: 831-476-7387. Website: http://capitolaveterinaryhospital.com/