Aptos Times: March 15

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March 15, 2022 • Vol 31 No. 6

Santa Cruz Seahawks: National Champs

This month, local leaders, parents, and community members gathered on the Santa Cruz County courthouse steps to celebrate the County’s first-ever national champion youth sports team.

Full Story page 5

Grand Jury Seeks Volunteers Full Story page 9

More than 5 Million Meals!

Supporting Women Around The World Photo by Boots McGhee

Aptos’ Carm McGhee showing her power and proven strength to support all women of the world.

For more about supporting women, read about Capitola Mayor Sam Storey’s proclamation on page 4

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No. 6

Volume 31

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31

Table of Contents

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Cover Supporting Women Around The World, Photo by Boots McGhee 4 6 7 9 10 11 12 13 17 18 20 23 27

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Community News Capitola Mayor Proclaims March 15 Equal Pay Day • Elderday: New Location Coming in 2023, By Jondi Gumz As Omicron Cases Shrink, Mask Debate is On, By Jondi Gumz Perrigo Told to Reduce Lead in Formula • Prosecutors Eager for Details from Gov. Newsom’s Care Court Grand Jury Seeks Volunteers • Pay Traffic Tickets Online With MyCitations • Prosecutors Eager for Care Court Details • Santa Cruz County Jobs Life-Changing Internet in Pajaro Valley Second Harvest Holiday Drive: More than 5 Million Meals!

New Assembly Member To Represent Aptos, By Jondi Gumz • Gail Pellerin Runs for Assembly Voters to Have Say on Greenway, By Jondi Gumz Santa Cruz Polar Plunge: Goal Met! Russia Invades Ukraine; Record Gas Prices, No Relief, By Jondi Gumz Capitola-Aptos Rotary Gives $50,000 to Sgt. Gutzwiller Memorial, By Kieran Kelly Agri-Culture Scholarship Winners • A Senior Helping Other Seniors Go Back to Work Input Sought on Zoning Code Update • Not Too Late to Answer Survey on Cabrillo College Name Local Sports Santa Cruz Seahawks: National Champs, Story and Photos By Kieran Kelly

Letters to the Editor 22 Cabrillo President Responds to Burning of Pride Flag: Letter to the Community from Matt Wetstein • PVUSD Superintendent‘s March 11 Letter on Masks • PVUSD Trustee Fails to Represent Students 27 Kudos to Aptos Times Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – A Poem for Lent — Days and Nights of Reflection, By Risa D’Angeles Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29 19 21 24 25 30

Featured Columnists Ginger Crinkles, A Longtime Favorite, from Dani Boscarelli Frosted Foliage Is Safe to Prune, By Tony Tomeo Proven Tips for Your Next Trip Abroad, By Christopher Elliott Happy Sixth Business Birthday!, By Ron Kustek Broadband Grant, Public Works & Planning, and Lobbying, By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 31 – Andy Griffith’s Black Lab!

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Patrice Edwards Jondi Gumz

publisher editor

contributing writers Jondi Gumz, Kieran Kelly, Risa D’Angeles, Tony Tomeo, Christopher Elliott, Ron Kustek, Zach Friend layout Michael Oppenheimer, Ward J. Austin graphic artists Michael Oppenheimer, Ward J. Austin photography Michael Oppenheimer, Ward J. Austin, Brad King website Michael Oppenheimer, Camisa Composti production coordinator Camisa Composti media consultants Teri Huckobey, Brooke Valentine, Tara Carcamo office coordinator Cathe Race distribution Bill Pooley, James Hudson

Capitola Mayor Proclaims March 15 Equal Pay Day T he United Nations first observed Equal Pay Day Sept. 18, 2020, estimating that women earn 23 percent less than men globally.

According to Capitola Mayor Sam Storey, March 15 symbolizes the time in 2022 when the wages paid to American Sam Storey women catch up to the wages paid to men from the previous year.

Here is his proclamation: WHEREAS, 59 years after the passage of the Equal Pay Act, women, especially minority women, continue to suffer the consequences of unequal pay; and WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, women working full time, year-round in 2022 in the U.S. typically earned 83 percent of what men earned,

indicating insufficient progress in pay equity; and WHEREAS, according to “Graduating to a Pay Gap,” a research report by the American Association of University Women, the gender pay gap is evident one year after college graduation, even after controlling for factors known to affect earnings, such as occupation, hours worked, and college major; and WHEREAS, nearly four in 10 mothers are primary breadwinners in their households, and nearly two-thirds are primary or significant earners, making pay equity critical to families’ economic security; and WHEREAS, a lifetime of lower pay means women have less income to save for retirement and less income counted in a Social Security or pension benefit formula; and WHEREAS, in 2009, the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Act was signed into law, which gives back to employees their day in court to

challenge a pay gap, although the Paycheck Fairness Act, which would have amended the Equal Pay Act closing loopholes and improving the law’s effectiveness, continues to languish in Congress; and WHEREAS, fair pay strengthens the security of families today and eases future retirement costs while enhancing the American economy; and WHEREAS, March 15, symbolizes the time in 2022 when the wages paid to American women catch up to the wages paid to men from the previous year, Now therefore, Sam Storey, Mayor of the City of Capitola, do hereby proclaim March 15, 2022, to be “Equal Pay Day” in Capitola and urge the citizens of Capitola to recognize the full value of women’s skills and significant contributions to the labor force and further encourage businesses to conduct internal pay evaluations to ensure women are being paid fairly. n

Elderday: New Location Coming in 2023

Times Publishing Group, Inc. 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 The Times Publishing Group, Inc., publishers of the Aptos Times, a bi-monthly publication, the Capitola Soquel Times and Scotts Valley Times, each printed monthly, Coastal Weddings Magazine, Coastal Home and Garden Magazine, Aptos’ Fourth of July Parade Official Program Guide and Capitola’s Summer Festivals Official Program Guide, is owned by Patrice Edwards.

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By Jondi Gumz

lderday, the Community Bridges program for older adults with complex medical conditions, dementia, and people with disabilities, will host a ceremonial groundbreaking at 11 a.m. Friday, March 25, for its new location in downtown Watsonville.

The facility will be the first of its kind

serving older adults regardless of income level or immigration status in south Santa Cruz County.

PHONE: (831) 688-7549 FAX: (831) 688-7551 GENERAL E-MAIL: info@cyber-times.com Patrice Edwards: patrice@cyber-times.com Publisher’s Assistant: assistant@cyber-times.com Editor: info@cyber-times.com Calendar Listings: www.tpgonlinedaily.com Graphics Department: graphics@cyber-times.com Billing Inquiries: cathe@cyber-times.com Classified Sales: sales@cyber-times.com Production: production@cyber-times.com CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE AT: www.tpgonlinedaily.com mission statement We at the Times Publishing Group, Inc. are dedicated to providing a voice for the individuals and organizations in our community while highlighting the outstanding accomplishments of our local businesses. We seek to promote healthy family values through our coverage of youth activities, school news, senior events, community groups and entertainment

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Community Bridges purchased the 15,255-square-foot building at 501 Main St. for $1.95 million.

Central California Alliance for Health, based in Scotts Valley, provided a $2.5 million grant toward the purchase and modernization of the space.

Elderday will occupy 13,000 square feet in what was before the pandemic a home furnishings store.

Swenson of Santa Cruz is the contractor. Estimated opening at the new location is early 2023.

Centro Market, also at this address, will remain in its location, and a couple of small tenants will continue to rent their space.

When the new site is ready, Community Bridges will give up the 10,000 square feet leased for Elderday at 100 Pioneer St. in Santa Cruz since 2012.

Elderday’s medical model outpatient day program serves about 150 residents a year.

The larger facility in a more highly accessible location is expected to serve more and help meet the needs of a growing aging population in Santa Cruz County.

“Elderday” page 7

LOCAL SPORTS

Santa Cruz Seahawks: National Champs

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Story and Photos By Kieran Kelly

his month, local leaders, parents, and community members gathered on the Santa Cruz County courthouse steps to celebrate the County’s first-ever national champion youth sports team.

In December 2021, the Santa Cruz Seahawks, a Pop Warner youth football team for ages 12 and under, steamrolled their opponents on their way to winning the 64th Pop Warner Super Bowl Championships at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida.

“When people think of Santa Cruz, they think of surfing and maybe soccer, but we have some great football players that come from this area, many of whom have come through our program, and I’m just glad we could put Santa Cruz on the map for football,” said head coach Jake Clark, who lives in Aptos.

Santa Cruz County Supervisor Zach Friend presented proclamations to the players and officially declared March 4, 2022, as “Santa Cruz Seahawks Day” in Santa Cruz County.

“You are always going to be

national champions and you did it at an age that proves you have a lot more to accomplish. This community is always going to be proud of you,” said Supervisor Friend. The young champs

beamed with pride at their collective achievement.

The Seahawks went undefeated this season to earn a ticket to the Pop Warner Super Bowl Championships.

In their first game against the Danbury Trojans from Connecticut, the Santa Cruz kids put together a convincing 31-6 victory. They quickly followed up by beating the Westlake Chaps of Texas 33-6. In the final game, the Seahawks prevailed 28-8 over the Port Charlotte Bandits out of Florida — a dominant victory.

The Seahawks have set a high standard of success for the club with an intimidating record of 38-1 over the past three seasons.

However, the road to Orlando was not easy.

In addition to winning all their games this season, the nonprofit club had to raise $62,000 to cover the team’s travel expenses.

All of the coaches are unpaid volunteers who donate countless hours of their time to the team.

The Seahawks’ victory is even more impressive when you consider they also had to overcome injuries and the lack of a dedicated practice space.

“Seahawks” page 10

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COMMUNITY NEWS

As Omicron Cases Shrink, Mask Debate is On

By Jondi Gumz

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ith new cases, hospitalizations and positivity test rate for Covid-19 plummeting statewide and locally two years after the pandemic began, the debate over masks in schools — yes or no — is not over.

The state Department of Public Health reports hospitalizations down from 15,000 at the peak of the Omicron surge in January to 2,200, and test positivity, 23% in January, is 1.4%.

Santa Cruz County has 13 hospitalizations, including 3 in intensive care, 900 active cases, down from 10,000 at the peak, and four more deaths, bringing the total to 256.

The latest deaths involved people 75 and older, all with underlying conditions.

Dignity Health Dominican Hospital recognized frontline workers for their dedication by lighting up the front of the hospital blue.

On March 15, registered nurses at Sutter Health picketed at 15 facilities in the state including the Santa Cruz VNA, to show their frustration with contract

negotiations since June 2021 and “little to no movement on key issues.”

The issues include “safe staffing,” investing in personal protective equipment required by state law; presumptive eligibility for workers’ compensation that covers infectious diseases and plans to prevent violence within the hospitals in compliance with state law.

Sutter spokeswoman Emma Dugas said, “We remain focused on reaching a shared resolution.”

“These past two years have been difficult for all of us, especially the families and loved ones of those we have lost,” said Dr. Gail Newel, Santa Cruz County health officer. “I want to thank everyone who made sacrifices — everyone who wore a mask to protect themselves and others,

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employees and employers who kept everyone as safe as possible, parents and students who navigated distance learning — to get us through these last two years.”

County Public Health reported: • 335,958 PCR tests • 122,890+ antigen tests distributed • 535,746 doses of vaccine given • 998,295 masks distributed • 61 pop- up vaccination clinics • 30,000 + calls answered by the county’s Covid-19 call center.

• 668 vaccinations to homebound individuals Pajaro Valley Schools est positivity for the Santa Cruz County Office of Education, which reports testing for public schools, is 1.18 percent, lower than the state rate.

The state’s guidance to schools and child care facilities: After March 11, masks are not required but are strongly recommended.

This set off a heated discussion at the Pajaro Valley Unified School District board meeting. See the superintendent’s letter and a parent’s response to the board vote in this issue.

Pajaro Valley schools, with 19,000 students, report 93 active student cases and 15 staff cases in March, the lowest in the Omicron surge.

Watsonville High School has 22 student cases, and zero staff cases.

Aptos High School has 9 student cases and zero staff cases, Aptos Junior High has 1 student case and zero staff case.

Valencia Elementary has 6 student cases and 1 staff case; Mar Vista Elementary, zero student cases and 1 staff case. Rio del Mar Elementary has 4 student cases and 2 staff cases.

High Transmission ased on 309 new cases, Santa Cruz County is rated red — high trans-

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mission — by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, so guidelines for everyone to wear a mask indoors apply.

The CDC said people with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask. Those at high risk for severe illness should talk to their healthcare provider about wearing a mask and taking other precautions.

Underlying conditions were a factor in all 17 of the most recent local deaths during the peak of the highly contagious and thought-to-be-mild Omicron variant.

Fifteen people who died were 75 or older.

Fundraising is ongoing for the Pajaro Valley Health Care District Project, the local consortium seeking to buy Watsonville Community Hospital, which has 620 employees, and sharing the treatment of Covid-19 patients with Dominican Hospital.

To donate to the consortium, see https://www.pvhdp.org/ “COVID Update” page 8

COMMUNITY NEWS

Perrigo Told to Reduce Lead in Formula O n Feb. 2, the Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s Office joined with the California Attorney General’s Office to file suit against Perrigo Co., which sells toddler formula with dangerously elevated lead levels in their products.

Testing revealed that these formulas exceed the U.S. Food and Drug Administration provisional daily intake levels for children under 6 and caused lead exposures that exceeded the Proposition 65 warning threshold.

“Lead is a dangerous neurotoxin that may cause severe harm to children. The Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s

Office is committed to protecting the health and safety of Santa Cruz County residents, and marketing adulterated products for children consumption is unacceptable,” said District Attorney Jeffrey Rosell.

The lawsuit alleges that Perrigo’s Toddler Formula products are adulterated under California and Federal standards and the sale of the products violated Proposition 65 and California’s Unfair Competition Law by manufacturing products with lead levels that exceeded the Proposition 65 warning threshold.

The settlement requires Perrigo to significantly reduce the levels of lead in its products, with substantial injunctive terms, including: • The settlement sets a target lead level for all Perrigo infant and toddler formula products sold in California of 4 parts per billion, with a maximum lead level of 5-7 ppb, depending on the product.

• To attain the target level, Perrigo must put ingredient sourcing and control processes in place. Perrigo must also consult with an independent

food processing auditor, set internal food quality auditing practices, and conduct compliance testing to ensure that its products do not exceed the maximum lead levels.

• If a product lot exceeds the maximum lead levels and is not found to be an outlier, Perrigo may not sell that lot in California. It must also investigate the cause, and work with the auditor to keep the level under the maximum.

The lawsuit was filed by Santa Cruz District Attorney, the District Attorneys of Alameda, Marin, Monterey, Napa, Santa Clara, Shasta, Solano, Sonoma, and Orange counties, and the Attorney General. n

Prosecutors Eager for Details from Gov. Newsom’s Care Court

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he California District Attorneys Association supports the concept of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Care Court; a proposal that would provide mandatory treatment for mentally ill homeless people.

“This innovative and humane approach would help the thousands of Californians on the street suffering from mental illness who don’t have the wherewithal to volunteer for medical and psychiatric care,” said Greg Totten, CDAA’s Chief Executive Officer.

In his State of the State Address, Newsom proposed Care Court, which he said would create civil court divisions in

every county that could have the power to mandate mental health treatment for people with debilitating psychosis.

“By providing new treatment options to those who are most vulnerable and most in need, California can humanely address the human suffering connected to homelessness while also improving public safety for all of our communities,” said Jeff Reisig, Yolo County District Attorney and president of the California District Attorneys Association.

The governor suggested “care court” could become state law this year.

The California District Attorneys

Association, which represents more than 3,500 prosecutors, issued a statement saying, “We look forward to being a part of a robust conversation about a policy that is desperately needed.” n

A coordinated team of licensed professionals, nurses, social workers, and physical and occupational therapists, focus on medical, preventive and social care to improve health outcomes for vulnerable participants.

Participants get therapeutic activities, personal care, hot meals, nutritional counseling, and transportation to and from the center. This helps them stay as healthy as possible in their own homes, as most people prefer as they age, and out of institutional care.

During the pandemic, in-person services were limited as it was not safe to bring vulnerable people together. The vast majority of the offerings moved online – via telehealth for example -- although Elderdayp never fully closed.

Most participants used the virtual option but for about 18 months only the most critically in need of care came for in-

person services, and then only one or two at a time.

By developing a partnership with Parks and Recreation Departments and libraries within Santa Cruz County, Community Bridges created Senior Center Without Limits to offer virtual services not only to Elderday participants but to any older adult in the county.

The innovative online programming offered seniors a way to stay connected with activities and friends online even as they sheltered in their own homes.

Although Senior Center Without Limits will continue to offer online classes to the whole community, Elderday has begun to gradually bring participants back to the center to receive the full scope of their programming and support in person.

Elderday reopened last summer but returned to virtual operations again over the winter due to the Omicron variant surge of cases. n

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“COVID Update” from page 6 Young Kids, What’s Next n March 13, the chief executive of Pfizer, which made one of the vaccines, said fully vaccinated people will need a fourth shot this year.

In an interview on “Face the Nation,” on CBS, Pfizer Chairman and CEO Albert Bourla said a fourth dose — a second booster — is necessary.

“The protection that you are getting from the third, it is good enough, actually quite good for hospitalizations and deaths,” he said. “It’s not that good against infections, but doesn’t last very long.”

Fully vaccinated means having two shots (Pfizer or Moderna) or one Johnson & Johnson shot. All were developed for the initial Covid-19 coronavirus.

For Omicron, a booster shot is needed.

Booster shots are 90 percent effective against preventing Omicron hospitalizations, according to the federal Centers of Disease Control.

The New York Times reported Pfizer will seek emergency use authorization from regulators in April for a three-shot regimen for children under 5.

Parents anxious to have shots for their younger children under 5 have been waiting for Pfizer and BioNTech to gather more data on whether a third dose produces the desired result.

Pfizer initially applied for emergency use authorization for young children for two doses.

In January, Dr. Anthony Fauci, White House chief medical adviser, said younger children will likely need three doses because two shots did not induce an adequate immune response in 2- to 4-year-olds in Pfizer’s clinical trials.

Mary Holland, president and general counsel of Children’s Health Defense, contends there is no COVID emergency for children under 5 years old.

Children have a 99.995% recovery rate, and a body of medical literature indicates that “almost zero” healthy children under 5 have died from COVID, according to Holland. She cited these studies: • Germany: Zero deaths for children under 5.

• England and Wales: Throughout 2020 and 2021, only one child under 5 without comorbidities died from COVID. A comorbidity means one or more diseases is present along with the primary infection.

Myocarditis n a 2022 report in the Journal of American Medical Association online, Dr. Matthew Oster of the CDC reported the government’s VAERS database received 1,991 reports of myocarditis after one dose of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccine and 1,626 met the CDC’s definition for probable or confirmed myocarditis.

Myocarditis is inflammation of the

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heart, which can lead to clots, a stroke or heart attack.

Oster’s conclusion: “The risk of myocarditis after receiving mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines was increased across multiple age and sex strata and was highest after the second vaccination dose in adolescent males and young men. This risk should be considered.”

The Japanese government amended the label for mRNA COVID-19 vaccines developed by Pfizer and Moderna to add myocarditis to their list of significant “adverse drug reactions.”

Public health officials say the scientific consensus is that Covid vaccines are safe, but some are skeptical about relying on science from drug-makers, which saw profits rise in 2021. They point to the U.S. government database, https://vaers.hhs. gov/, where health care providers are to report adverse events after a vaccine.

The reporting site was created after Congress passed a law in 1986 protecting vaccine manufacturers from civil personal injury lawsuits and wrongful death lawsuits resulting from vaccine injuries.

After Covid arrived, Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar invoked the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act, a 2005 law that allows the HHS secretary to provide legal protection to companies making or distributing critical medical supplies such as vaccines unless there’s “willful misconduct” by the company, according to a report by CNBC. This lowers the cost of immunizations, and the protection lasts until 2024.

Dr. Pamela Popper of Ohio has sued HHS, FDA and CDC concerning vaccines for kids under 16, and hopes to get discovery, the point at which both sides can get evidence. Updates are at https:// makeamericansfreeagain.com/ Pop-up Clinic ublic health officials consider vaccinations to be the number one tool to prevent hospitalizations and deaths from COVID-19.

According to County Public Health, and the most recent three deaths were unvaccinated along with being older and having underlying conditions. The county website now lists vaccination status as “yes” or “no.”

The most COVID fatalities in the county occurred in January 2021, when vaccines were not available and 22 people died in one week, according to the county Covid-19 dashboard.

California reports 83.6% of residents age 5 and up have had at least one shot.

On the CDC Covid tracker, Santa Cruz County reports 93% of residents age 12 and up have at least one shot and 84.9% fully vaccinated, little changed from two weeks ago. The county closed the vaccination site at Felton Community Hall after giving 2,000 vaccinations there.

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La Princesa Food Market,1424 Freedom Blvd., Watsonville, will host a pop-up vaccine clinic in the parking lot, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 19.

The Watsonville Vaccine Center has vaccines available for walk-ins at 250 Main St., Watsonville, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Thursday through Sunday.

Proposed Bills o track the Covid-19 bills proposed

by California lawmakers see https:// leginfo.legislature.ca.gov AB 1993: To mandate vaccines for all employees and independent contractors — and require employers to verify their workers are immunized.

Senate Bill 1479: To mandate Covid testing plans and require the California Department of Public Health to help school districts develop them.

Senate Bill 871: To end a personal belief exemption in the state’s student vaccine mandate.

Senate Bill 866: To allow children 12 and older to get COVID vaccines without parental consent.

Omicron Less Deadly he assumption is Omicron, the most easily transmissible variant of the Covid-19 coronavirus, quickly drove the increase in January and the decline in February and March.

Omicron was confirmed in two cases in the county on Dec. 16 and 17.

The numbers ballooned from 325 cases confirmed on Dec. 29 to 1,265 on Jan. 20, according to the county health dashboard, which is updated twice a week, Mondays and Wednesdays.

The California Department of Public Health estimates Omicron comprises 91% of cases statewide and Delta 6.5% but does not have a breakdown of Omicron hospitalizations or deaths.

Not all COVID-19 cases requiring hospitalization are sequenced, and the proportion of cases due to the Omicron variant that die is still being determined.

Omicron is less deadly than Delta, which raged in 2021.

Santa Cruz County reports 256 Covid deaths, up from 225 as of Dec. 15, before Omicron.

One statistic is similar: 79% to 81% of those who died had pre-existing conditions.

Why do people fear Omnicron?

They may have a pre-existing condition (diabetes, obesity, asthma, high blood pressure).

Half of Americans do, so they are at higher risk for severe Covid illness.

So are people 85 and older.

Some people who got Covid experience “long Covid,” with fatigue and brain fog months afterward. A 2022 study in the journal Cell by researchers following more than 200 patients found many acute Covid patients had low cortisol, which could be addressed.

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Testing anta Cruz County Office of Education, with Inspire Diagnostic, has provided 367,300 tests.

Cases peaked at 4,407 on Jan. 27, dropping to 145 on March 15. The 14-day positivity rate, 12.25% a month ago, is down to 1.18%.

The County Office of Education offers drive-though testing for students, staff and families at these locations: Cabrillo College, Aptos, Parking Lot K, Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 E. Lake Ave., Watsonville, Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Santa Cruz County Office of Education, 399 Encinal St., Santa Cruz, Monday to Friday, 2 to 5 p.m.

Hundreds of school staff have rapid response antigen tests, courtesy of the County Office of Education, and schools are distributing more for home use.

Directions are posted at https://drive. google.com/file/d/1U8AdsSyH14sDvrjD 6T25krhvOFRFsuXs/view For test options see: https://tinyurl. com/get-tested-santa-cruz.

(Full URL: https://www.santacruz h e a l t h . o rg / H S A H o m e / H S A D i v i s i o n s / PublicHealth/CommunicableDiseaseControl/ CoronavirusHome/SAVELivesSantaCruz County/GetTested.aspx) Shorter Isolation ased on federal recommendations, the state shortened the isolation time for those testing positive from 10 days to five days.

Schedule booster shots at https:// myturn.ca.gov/ or by asking your local doctor and pharmacies. For local vaccine providers, visit www.santacruzhealth.org/ coronavirusvaccine.

For help scheduling an appointment, call the Community Bridges Helpline at 831-219-8607 or 831-440-3556 (English, Spanish, Mixteco and Triqui).

For local information on COVID-19, go to www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus or call (831) 454-4242 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. n •••

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Total COVID cases: 900

••• COVID Deaths: 256 As of March 16 Age 85 and older: 109 • 75-84: 61 • 65-74: 44 60-64: 15 • 55-59: 4 • 45-54: 10 35-44: 8 • 25-34: 5 Underlying Conditions Yes: 207 • No: 49 Race White 146 • Latinx 89 • Asian 16 • Black 2 Amer Indian 1 • Hawaiian 1 • Another 1 Gender Men: 132 • Women: 124 Location At facility for aged: 115 Not at a facility: 141

COMMUNITY NEWS

Grand Jury Seeks Volunteers Deadline To Apply: 3 p.m. April 29

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he Superior Court of Santa Cruz County is seeking volunteers to become members of the Civil Grand Jury.

Applications must be received by 3 p.m. Friday, April 29.

The Civil Grand Jury is a historic institution and serves an important role in the community. Serving on the Civil Grand Jury offers county residents a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the local community.

The 19 members of the Civil Grand Jury are an independent body empowered to investigate the operations of city and county governments as well as other tax-supported agencies and special districts.

They also respond to citizen complaints about government issues.

Candidates must be United States citizens, at least 18 years, have a working knowledge of the

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English language, and have lived in the county for at least one year.

The Superior Court of Santa Cruz County is seeking a volunteer pool that represents the ethnic and cultural diversity of communities within the county.

All qualified citizens are invited to apply to the Superior Court for consideration.

Two informational meetings via Zoom noon April 19 and 5 p.m. April 21 will provide information about becoming a member of the grand jury.

The links will be posted on http://www.santa cruzcourt.org/.

Or visit the courthouse in Santa Cruz or Watsonville to pick up an application. n ••• For questions, email the Superior Court Jury Commissioner’s Office at jury.information@santacruzcourt.org.

Pay Traffic Tickets Online With MyCitations

ay your traffic ticket online? Or make an online request to lower the amount? You can do that!

The state Judicial Council developed an online option for people struggling with court debt from eligible infraction violations so a personal appearance in court is not necessary.

The “MyCitations” tool, live in Santa

Cruz County as of Feb. 18, lets people look up their citation, answer a series of simple questions and submit a request to the court for a possible reduction in the amount owed.

People can request a payment plan, more time to pay, or community service.

This new option saves the public and the courts significant time and resources,

according to the announcement posted at https://www.santacruz.courts.ca.gov/ There’s a 4-minute video to show how this works. The software asks for the citation number, whether you receive public benefits or not, and how much money you take home each month and your estimated monthly expenses for rent/ mortgage, utilities, phone, food, insurance,

child/spousal support, transportation and any financial hardships and a response is emailed to the email address submitted.

The court started a pilot project in eight counties on “ability to pay” in 2018.

With the passage of Assembly Bill 143, each of the 58 trial courts in California will offer online ability-to-pay determinations using MyCitations by June 30, 2024. n

COMMUNITY BRIEFS Prosecutors Eager for Care Court Details he California District Attorneys Association supports the concept of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Care Court; a proposal that would provide mandatory treatment for mentally ill homeless people.

“This innovative and humane approach would help the thousands of Californians on the street suffering from mental illness who don’t have the wherewithal to volunteer for medical and psychiatric care,” said Greg Totten, CDAA’s Chief Executive Officer.

In his State of the State Address, Newsom proposed Care Court, which he said would create civil court divisions in every county that could have the power to mandate mental health treatment for people with debilitating psychosis.

“By providing new treatment options to those who are most vulnerable and most in need, California can humanely address the human suffering connected to homelessness while also improving public safety for all of our communities,” said Jeff Reisig,

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Yolo County District Attorney and president of the California District Attorneys Association.

The governor suggested “care court” could become state law this year.

The California District Attorneys Association, which represents more than 3,500 prosecutors, issued a statement saying, “We look forward to being a part of a robust conversation about a policy that is desperately needed.”

••• Santa Cruz County Jobs Report posted March 11 January unemployment 6.2% Change from Jan 2022 a year ago Leisure & hospitality 11,800 Up 3,800 Government 21,800 Up 1,400 Trade/transportation/ 16,400 Up 600 utilities Manufacturing 7,500 Up 600 Other services 4,500 Up 600 Professional/business 10,600 Up 400 services

Financial Private education & health Construction Information Farm Nonfarm Total

3,300 17,100

Up 200 Up 200

4,600 600 3,000 98,200 101,200

Up 100 Up 100 Down 1,400 Up 8,000 Up 6,600

Labor force 132,400 Up 3% Employed* 124,200 Up 6% Unemployed 8,200 Down 32% Count is on the 12 of the month *Includes commuting to jobs outside county Source: California Employment Development Department

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2022 / 9

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Life-Changing Internet in Pajaro Valley

n January, Cruzio Internet and Pajaro Valley Shelter Services partnered to bring internet connections to families transitioning out of homelessness — and the results are in.

This is the latest community partnership and infrastructure project funded

by Equal Access Santa Cruz County, an initiative to close the digital divide locally.

Pajaro Valley Shelter Services is a nonprofit with a mission to help families experiencing homelessness transition into self-sufficiency and stable housing. At any given time, PVSS has up to 130 individuals — children and adults — living in its shelter and housing programs and serves more than 215 individuals a year.

Pajaro Valley Shelter Services reports the pandemic disproportionately impacted the predominantly Latinx, extremely low-income families that it serves. In April 2020, a month into the pandemic, 57% of sheltered families lost their employment due to shutdowns and business slowdowns.

To help families return to stability, Pajaro Valley Shelter Services takes a

Sugey Carrizoza works online to complete her GED.

Friends since kindergarten, Jordan Ramirez (from left), Kelton Forbus, and Devon Williams have been playing Pop Warner together since 2nd grade.

multi-faceted approach, which increases the likelihood of maintaining that stability for a lifetime. Among the services are family strengthening courses, financial literacy training, access to GED classes, and providing families with the resources and tools many might take for granted.

In fall 2021, PVSS reached out to Cruzio Internet for a broadband solution for multiple properties housing their transitioning families. This was a perfect project for Equal Access and thanks to past Equal Access projects in the area, there was already a reliable, updated network available to connect them.

Cruzio completed the infrastructure work for five locations, and in the beginning of 2022, 17 families got fast and reliable internet.

Parents are appreciative.

“Ever since the pandemic hit, my daughters have been asked to do most of their schoolwork on their computers,” said Maria Sotelo. “Having internet access has made it so convenient for my kids to complete their homework at home.”

Blanca Herera said, “It has made it easier for us to go to our doctors’ appointments through Zoom. My son is scared of every doctor’s office, it has made it less challenging for me.”

Maria del Carmen Carrillo sees benefits for her children — and for her future.

“My kids and I love having internet at home!” she said. ”Whenever I’m helping my kids with their homework and I don’t understand how to do something, I just quickly go online and research it. One of my goals is to purchase a home one day.

“Seahawks” from page 5 “The most adversity we faced was a couple of injuries to some of our best players. They were there to support us in Florida, but unfortunately weren’t able to play,” Coach Clark said. “Additionally, toward the end of the season we basically had no field to practice at. We had to try and find small pieces of fields at high schools around the county.”

Despite these challenges, the Seahawks have a tight bond that comes

10 / March 15th 2022 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Maria Sotelo’s daughters Yuriana 8th grade (left) and Jacqueline, 12th grade, find internet essential for schoolwork. Jacqueline plans to attend Cabrillo College to become a dental hygienist.

Now that I have internet access, I can join workshops through Zoom that give me information on how to reach that goal, like what type of loans are out there.”

Sugey Carrizoza said, “With Covid still being a problem, I have to complete my GED classes online 3 days out of the week.

Now that I’m on maternity leave, I’ll be able to put more hours into my schoolwork from the comfort of my own home.”

Before this, most families could not afford broadband on their own and Pajaro Valley Shelter Services couldn’t afford to provide it.

“The Equal Access project between PVSS and Cruzio has had a big and immediate impact on the lives of our families.” said Mike Johnson, executive director of Pajaro Valley Shelter Services.

Internet is a necessary tool for families getting back on their feet.

As aspects of life become increasingly digital, initiatives like Equal Access are crucial in making sure community members who are most at risk have access to the resources they need.

Generous donations by community

members to the Equal Access fund at Community Foundation Santa Cruz County make projects like this possible. n ••• Learn about plans for 2022, and how you can help: https://equalaccesssantacruz.com/

from several years of playing together and a dedicated support network of parents and volunteers.

“My team is family, I have played football with some of these guys since I was 6 years old. We are all like brothers, which is different from any other sport,” said team co-captain Kelton Forbus. “We do things together and practice and play and work out like no other sport, which makes us so close. This is what makes our team special. We never stopped and that’s why we are National Champions.”

As for next year’s championships?

“I don’t hope, I know I will be back in Florida to defend our National championship,” said Forbus. “I want to go out there and compete and play ‘Cali football.’”

For those interested in supporting the Santa Cruz Seahawks, there are multiple ways to help out including donating your time as a volunteer or by donating financially.

“We are a nonprofit, none of our coaches are paid,” said Coach Clark. “It costs a lot to run this league, and make sure kids can play the game they love safely.” n Visit www.scpopwarner.com to get involved.

Blanca Herera appreciates internet for doctor appointments via Zoom.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Second Harvest Holiday Drive: More than 5 Million Meals!

F

acing a second year of pandemic upheaval, Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County surpassed its goal of raising enough money during its Holiday Food & Fund Drive to deliver 5 million meals to those in need.

On March 3, its first in-person indoor event in more than two years, the 50-year-old food bank announced that the community raised the equivalent of 5,025,166 healthy meals.

The campaign ran from Nov. 4, 2021, to Jan. 15, aiming to meet a need for food that had doubled in the pandemic from 55,000 to 110,000 people a month.

Each dollar helps Second Harvest deliver four meals.

Recognized local businesses include Martinelli’s, Fleet Feet, SUP Shack., Santa Cruz County Bank and Universal Audio.

S. Martinelli & Co., which makes the Gold Medal apple juice in Watsonville, made a company record-setting donation: Nearly 87,000 meals.

“I’m extremely proud of the Martinelli’s team for embracing this campaign

which are 100% juice made from U.S. grown fresh apples without added sweeteners or chemical preservatives.

“The Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County relies on the generous and ongoing support of our corporate partners, like Martinelli’s,” said Richelle Noroyan, corporate and community relations director, Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County.

Big Step anta Cruz County Bank won the Big Step Award, collecting the equivalent of 32,060 healthy meals — an increase of 12,000 over the prior year, thanks to the generosity of its customers, employees, and Board of Directors.

“We’ve been acutely aware of the extraordinary need for support, heightened and amplified by the pandemic,” said Krista Snelling, Santa Cruz County Bank president and CEO. “We’re so grateful to be part of this hugely successful campaign to fight food insecurity. Our entire community stepped up!”

S At the start of Fleet Feet Aptos’ Run for Pie 5K on Thanksgiving, everyone is trying to catch the turkey. and setting a donation record,” said Gun Ruder, president and CEO of S. Martinelli & Co. “We are committed to doing all that we can to provide nourishment to those who need it most.”

The company sponsors the eyecatching Second Harvest trucks that deliver food to its partners.

Throughout the year, Martinelli’s donates its award-winning juices and sparkling ciders,

“5 Million Meals” page 15

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2022 / 11

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New Assembly Member To Represent Aptos

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We offer a test-free application process and over $1 million in Tuition Assistance.

COMMUNITY NEWS

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By Jondi Gumz

ptos voters are in the new 30th Assembly District, which will represent coastal areas from Live Oak and Capitola to Rio del Mar and La Selva Beach to Monterey, Seaside, Marina and Pacific Grove to San Luis Obispo – and there is no incumbent.

To meet prospective constituents 160 miles, the candidates may have to do a lot of driving.

Candidates in the June 7 primary are: Dawn Addis, a teacher, mom and Morro Bay City Council member, who cofounded the 2017 Women’ March in her community. She contends that California can afford to meet the basic needs of every Californian.

Zoe Carter of Monterey, operations director of the Monterey County Business Council. Her priorities ae mental health training for police and teachers, clean drinking water and investing in infrastructure.

Vicki Nohrden of Monterey, a family advocate. She wants fewer government regulations, fewer mandates for schools and one-stop shop help for unhoused people with mental health and substance abuse issues.

Jon Wizard, Seaside City Council member. He advocates a statewide climate resiliency plan, offshore wind energy, and change in the Local Control Funding Formula for schools.

The 30th, created through redistricting, is dominated by San Luis Obispo County, then Monterey County. Santa Cruz County voters comprise 17 percent of the district.

Meanwhile Corralitos and Watsonville are the new 28th District after redistricting.

Incumbent Robert Rivas, 42, grandson of a farmworker is chairman of the Assembly Agriculture Committee.

“Assembly” page 16

Gail Pellerin Runs for Assembly

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or 27 years, Gail Pellerin ran elections in Santa Cruz County. This year, she is running for office — State Assembly, the newly redrawn 28th District, which includes Santa Cruz, Capitola, Scotts Valley, San Lorenzo Valley and Los Gatos, Cambrian Park and Morgan Hill, but not Aptos, which in the 29th District.

State Assemblymember Mark Stone, who has represented much of the county since 2012, is not seeking re-election.

Pellerin’s priorities include addressing affordable housing, ensuring that health care is universal and accessible,

providing mental health care services to youth, and keeping California as a world leader in addressing climate change.

“And most importantly right now, our democracy is under attack and I want to take the fight for the right to vote to the state level,” she said.

Stone has endorsed her. So has Assemblymember Robert Rivas, who represents the southern parts of Santa Cruz County, and State Senator John Laird, who represents Santa Cruz County.

She also has support from Congressman Jimmy Panetta, retired congressman Sam Farr, and retired state senator Bill Monning.

Joseph Thompson filed preliminary paperwork to run, but did not make his contact information available.

“Although this was a difficult decision, it is made easier by having an incredible candidate to step forward in Gail Pellerin,” said Stone.

“Pellerin” page 16

COMMUNITY NEWS

Voters to Have Say on Greenway

E

By Jondi Gumz

leven years after the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission bought the 32-mile rail line from Davenport to Watsonville for $14 million, voters will have a say on the future of the rail corridor.

This question will appear on the June 7 ballot because Santa Cruz County Greenway collected enough signatures to do so.

Shall voters adopt the measure to amend the Circulation Element of the County’s General Plan related to use of the Santa Cruz Branch Line Rail Corridor as set forth in the Santa Cruz County Greenway Initiative Petition?

Supporters of Yes Greenway want to see a trail built on the track, with two paved lanes for people on bicycles and separate walkways for people on foot.

They contend the RTC’s 2011 vision for rail passenger service with a 12- to 18-foot paved multi-use trail next to the rail line is financially unfeasible, given the estimated cost and questions about whether ridership could support it.

Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

A Greenway sign is posted at a busy corner of Soquel Avenue in the unincorporated area, where southbound motorists frustrated by Highway 1 traffic jams seek a shortcut.

“There’s not enough right-of-way on Segment 7, consisting of 1.2 miles on both sides of the corridor to accommodate the Santa Cruz Westside, cost $6.4 million.

Supporters include train engineers, pedestrians, bicycles, moms with baby carriages, and those in wheelchairs while doctors and moms.

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a train is running on tracks nearby,” said Dave McNussen, a county resident and engineer for 37 years for Southern Pacific Railroad, including the Santa Cruz Branch Line.

“It is clear Greenway will provide a safer option for our children to get to and from school rather than riding or walking along the street,” said Devon Borgomini, a Watsonville mom who expects a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions if parents don’t drive kids to and from school.

Doctors see benefits for health and safety.

“The Greenway provides the best opportunity for the Santa Cruz County community to activate the unused rail corridor so that all ages can walk, run, cycle, commute, use wheelchairs and enjoy the outdoors,” said Dr. Doug Hetzler at Sutter Health, who has provided medical care in Santa Cruz County for 33 years.

“Greenway” page 17

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“Dependable Service, Affordable Quality”

“5 Million Meals” from page 11 In Scotts Valley, Universal Audio, employees of the award-winning professional recording hardware and software company, raised $7,891 for meals -- and the company matched that amount for a total donation of $15,782.

At Fleet Feet Aptos, Aubrey Curl, the operating partner, said the running store raised more than $4,000 by sponsoring the 9th annual Run for Pie, a 5K race on Thanksgiving.

In 2020, when the Lighted Boat Parade was cancelled, Trudie Ransom, owner of the SUP Shack, hosted the Santa SUP at the Santa Cruz Harbor, attracting 60 people in perfect weather and raising $2,000 for Second Harvest.

In 2021, Ransom upped her efforts, hosting the 10th annual Harbor Witches Paddle, aiming to raise $1,000 for Second Harvest. More than 30 people showed up in their witch’s finest and paddled around the harbor.

“For an hour, all you could hear was swished of the paddleboards and cackling of crazy witches,” she said.

For the Santa SUP in December, 20 people came despite cooler weather, raising $1,000 for Second Harvest.

Many smaller organizations were vital to the fundraiser -- and local institutions delivered in a major way.

Twin Lakes Church in Aptos created the “Acts of Kindness” initiative, assisting neighbors with hundreds of projects, and raising more than $300,000, enough for 1.2 million meals.

UCSC Record C Santa Cruz shattered its previous records, raising the equivalent of 376,099 meals for Second Harvest, winning the President’s Cup award, presented to the public institution that raises the most.

UCSC’s Staff Advisory Board runs the campus food drive.

Second Harvest named Nathan McCall, chairman of UCSC’s Staff Advisory Board and manager of HR Business Information Services, as one of its three Coordinators of the Year, describing him as “engaged, enthusiastic, and with an attention to detail that made UCSC’s food drive a great success.”

A generous donation from former Campus Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor David Kliger, who retired in 2010, and his wife Rachel Kliger, put the campus over the top.

In 2020, UCSC raised about $39,000 in its holiday food drive. In 2021, UCSC initially raised a little more, $39,090.

U

“But then, the Kliger family came in and gave a $35,000 gift and then another $20,000 gift on top of that,’’ McCall told the campus news report.

“It was just incredible… Everything was almost the same and then there was this massively generous gift,” McCall said.

Kliger explained the gifts this way: Tikkun olam, a concept in Judaism that means repair the world and the need to address food insecurity first before tackling other problems.

SPECIALIZING IN

Martinelli’s team, Lyza Gianelli, John Martinelli, Jennifer Madrid, Nicole Juntunen and Gun Ruder present Richelle Noroyan from the Second Harvest Food Bank (fourth from the left) a check representing the number of meals Martinelli’s donated to the Holiday Food & Fund Drive.

Swishes for Dishes he Santa Cruz Warriors teamed up with Kaiser Permanente and The Athletes’ Corner on Swishes for Dishes, raising 50,280 meals for Second Harvest when the G League moved to Orlando for Covid safety in 2020-21.

How? Santa Cruz donated 30 meals per point the Warriors scored during the season in Orlando. With a goal of 50,000 meals, the Sea Dubs surpassed that target and scored 1,676 points, totaling 50,280 meals for the Santa Cruz community.

The feat “not only demonstrates the great talent of this year’s team, but shows the deep commitment the Santa Cruz Warriors organization has for the wellbeing of our community,” said Suzanne Willis, chief development officer of Second Harvest Food Bank.

“The impacts of COVID-19 increased food insecurity drastically in our community,” said Santa Cruz Warriors President Chris Murphy.

Sam Bajaj, Chief Operating Officer for Kaiser Permanente San Jose and Santa Cruz County, added, “Kaiser Permanente recognizes that access to nutritious food is critical to good health.”

The Swishes for Dishes campaign’s 17 posts on social media racked up 488,000 impressions on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

The Golden State Warriors implemented the Swishes for Dishes initiative this season and have surpassed 835,000 meals donated to food banks throughout the Bay Area as of May 4.

Willy Elliot-McCrea, the retiring CEO at Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County, is grateful.

“As we move into our 50th year, we look forward to continuing to serve the community with our next Holiday Food & Fund Drive,” he said.

During the awards dinner, Darrie Ganzhorn, executive director of the Homeless Garden Project, was recognized as Second Harvest Food Bank’s Hunger Fighter of the Year. Ganzhorn joined the nonprofit with a mission to help those who are unhoused with job skills in the garden soon after its inception in 1991. n

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“Assembly” from page 12 He faces a challenge from Stephanie Castro, 50, an educator and Scout mom of three. She is critical of AB 1010, which she contends has brought “critical race theory” into the curriculum.

Congressional Races Aptos voters are in the 19th Congressional District, which includes much of Santa Cruz County.

Incumbent Jimmy Panetta of Carmel Valley sas he is securing relief and resources toprotect lives and livelihoods as the nation emerges from the pandemic. He faces three challengers.

Douglas Deitch of Aptos, whose main concern is water supply sustainability.

Dalila Epperson, a mom, grassroots leader and self-described ‘mama bear” in Marina, speaking out against critical race theory in school curriculum.

Jeff Gorman, a dad and Monterey stockbroker who wants to empower families by allowing choice of providers.

Voters in Watsonville are in the newly created 18th Congressional District with Salinas Valley and Silicon Valley.

Incumbent Zoe Lofgren, 75, who was first elected to Congress in 1995, is known for her work on patent reform and digital rights. She is a member of the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress, formed to make Congress more transparent. She faces two challengers.

Luis Aceedo-Arreguin of Castroville, professor iin the mathematics department at Monterey Peninsula College.

Peter Hernandez of Hollister, a San

“Pellerin” from page 12 Stone continued: “In a time when democracy is literally under attack, I cannot think of another person more qualified or more prepared to fight for our Democracy and protect voting rights. She has the experience, integrity and leadership skills to hit the ground running and I can’t wait to see what she will accomplish in the State Assembly.”

Pellerin, 59, was the Santa Cruz county clerk/registrar of voters from 2004 until she retired Dec. 30, 2020. She was the county’s elections manager from 1993-2004.

This year, she was a speaker at the Women in Leadership for Diverse Representation webinar series, encouraging women to run for office.

From 2010 to 2012, Pellerin was president of the California Association of Clerks and Election Officials. A graduate of the California Professional Election Administrator Credential program, she has taught credential courses on “Voters with Specific Needs” and “Budget.”

Pellerin co-chaired the secretary of state’s Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee. She developed programs to

To meet prospective constituents 160 miles, the candidates may have to do a lot of driving.

Benito County supervisor and owner of Ohana Shave Ice. County Races Supervisor races are being contested in the 3rd District, where Ryan Coonerty of Santa Cruz is retiring and in the 4th Dsitrict, where Greg Caput is retiring.

Superior Court judges must run to keep their job, but no one filed to run against Rebecca Connolly, John Gallagher, Jerry Vinluan and Timothy Volkmann, so their names will not appear on the ballot.

The race for county assessor, in which incumbent Sean Saldavis is retiring, closed Wednesday at 5 p.m. Sheri Thomas has filed for that office.

In other race, no one filed to run against incumbents, but their names will appear on the ballot and voters can write in a name if they wish. Write-in candidates file from April 11 to May 24.

Auditor-Controller-Treasurer-Tax Collector: Edith Driscoll County Clerk: Tricia Webber.

County Superintendent of Schools: Faris Sabbah District Attorney: Jeff Rosell Sheriff: Jim Hart.

ensure equal access to elections. She also developed guidebooks to help the public understand elections processes such as: Initiatives, recalls, referendum, voter registration, voting by mail, services for persons with specific needs, recounts, and how to call an election.

Pellerin received the Hammer of Justice Award from the Santa Cruz County Chapter of the ACLU in August 2009 as well as proclamations from the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors and City of Santa Cruz honoring her service to the community including her work on marriage equality issues.

Next month, she will be honored

by California Common Cause as a “2022 Democracy Hero.”

Prior to coming to Santa Cruz County, Pellerin spent seven years working for the Legislature in Sacramento on legislation, state budget development and constituent services. She has worked as a campaign assistant to political campaigns, newspaper reporter and photographer, and community college instructor.

A widow, she has two adult children and lives in Santa Cruz. n

COMMUNITY NEWS

Santa Cruz Polar Plunge: Goal Met! O n March 12, more than 100 people came out to Rio Del Mar State Beach in Aptos for the Santa Cruz Polar Plunge to raise money for Special Olympics Northern California.

The event featured games, entertainment and a Polar Plunge into the ocean to support local Special Olympics programs for children and adults with intellectual disabilities The fundraising goal was $45,000 but supporters outdid themselves and raised more than $50,000.

Learn more about Special Olympics Northern California at www.sonc.org n ••• Photos Credit: Tyler Krochmal

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“Greenway” from page 13 Dr. Dana Welle, a local resident and chief medical officer of Tribeca Companies, was injured inn a bike crash, so safety is her priority.

Dr. Anne-Marie Jackson, chief medical officer of Dignity Health Medical Group — Dominican, rides her bike to work. She wants a safer route.

Opponents have formed No Way Greenway.

Matt Farrell, co-chair of the No Way Greenway campaign, contends the initiative does nothing to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and eliminates the potential for passenger rail for the poor, seniors and people with disabilities.

The Democrat organizations in the county are opposed — the Santa Cruz County Democratic Party, the Democratic Club of North Santa Cruz County, the Mid County Democratic Club and the College Democrats at UC Santa Cruz.

“We need more transit options for working people, not fewer,” said Andrew Goldenkranz, chairman of the Santa Cruz County Democratic Central Committee.

Fred Keeley, former assembly member and former county treasurer, will host a

fundraiser for No Way Greenway March 31 with a minimum suggested $100 donation.

Other endorsers: Dawn Addis and Jon Wizard, Assembly candidates in the 30th District, which includes Aptos and La Selva Beach voters; Santa Cruz Chamber of Commerce; San Lorenzo Valley Chamber of Commerce; Valley Women’s Club; Sierra Club; Santa Cruz Climate Action Network; Youth for Climate Justice; Equity Transit; Santa Cruz County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Faris Sabbah; Watsonville City Councilmembers Lowell Hurst, Eduardo Montesino, and Vanessa Quiroz-Carter and Francisco Estrada; Santa Cruz City Council members Justin Cummings, Shebreh Kalantari-Johnson and Donna Meyers; Cabrillo College ttrustees Christina Cuevas, Felipe Hernandez, Adam Spickle, Steve Trujillo and Donna Ziel; Santa Cruz County Board of Education trustees Bruce Van Allen and Sue Roth; Santa Cruz City Schools trustee Deb Tracy-Proulx; Maria Orozco, Pajaro Valley Unified School Board trustee, and Bill Monning of Monterey, retired California State Senate majority leader. n ••• Pro and con arguments will be posted at votescount.us

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2022 / 17

COMMUNITY NEWS

MARCH 2022

Aptos Real Estate Update

Russia Invades Ukraine; Record Gas Prices, No Relief

Ruth Bates 831.359.2212

ruthbates1@gmail.com CalBRE#01799929

THE MARKET — The real estate market has finally picked up a bit. In the past 7 days there are 44 “New” and 21 “Coming Soon” listings in the County and 11 of those are in Aptos. List Prices continue to hit all-time highs. There are 20 Active Listings in Aptos as of 3/11, 2 are over $6.0M, one is over $5.0M; the Average List Price is $2,546,000 and the Median List Price is $2,322,000!

NEW LISTINGS — I have two New Listings in Corralitos. 120 Via Del Sol is a 4 Bed, 3 Bath, 2543 Sq. Ft. home with many new updates on a flat acre of land with a large Barn/Art Studio, corral, chicken coop, farming equipment and more. Asking $1,799,000.. I also have a flat acre of land adjacent to 120 Via Del Sol, asking $650,000. Come by the Open House Sat & Sun 3/19-20 1:00-4:00pm.

U.S. CENSUS — Results of the 2020 Census were recently publicized. The nation added about 23 million people since 2010, reaching 331 million. 65% of U.S. homes were owner-occupied in 2020. Maine had the highest rate at 75%.

12% of U.S. Homes were vacant. (hum – that is a high number). 88% of homes had a broadband internet connection.

42% of homes had one member 60 years or older, and 12% of the population moved in 2020.

Many demographic changes are occurring and real estate will change as well. In Santa Cruz, where the vacancy rate is 9.5% per the Census (2283 homes), there is a proposal to tax “empty houses”. If between 1,500 and 2,000 homes paid the tax, it would raise $6 million to $8 million, which the City plans to use towards “Affordable Housing” measures.

INTEREST RATES — Per Bankrate. com as of 3/11/22, the average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage is 4.32%. The average 30-year fixed refinance rate is also 4.32%. The headlines read that Inflation was 7.9% last year, highest in over 40 years. Affordability is being hit from both sides.

———

Lots of bad news and stress in the world, but Spring is here and Aptos is a fabulous place to live.

Call, email, text, and Get Results With Ruth!

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY Paid Advertising

By Jondi Gumz

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f you were hoping for a gas tax holiday to make filling up your tank less painful — $6 a gallon since Russian president Vladimir Putin ordered his military forces to invade Ukraine on Feb. 24 — you can kiss that idea good-bye.

Monday’s vote on an initiative by Assembly member Kevin Kiley, R-Rocklin, was 40 in favor — one short of the 41 yes votes need — 18 opposed, and 18 did not vote. Democrats do not want to suspend the gas tax, which was increased in 2017 to fund road improvements statewide.

Ukraine reports 1,300 soldiers killed since the invasion began. Further more, 636 civilians have been killed and 1,125 injured, according to the U.N. Human Rights Office, and 2.8 million people displaced.

At Aptos Safeway, the price of regular unleaded has jumped from $5.09 per gallon to $5.49 per gallon. It’s $6.05 a gallon at Arco in Aptos and $6.39 at Chevron in Aptos.

In Scotts Valley, the Union 76 on Mount Hermon Road — never one of the less expensive choices — raised the price to $5.39, then $5.89 and $5.99.

On March 8, when President Joe Biden announced a ban on Russian oil, gas and energy imports to the U.S., California had the highest gas prices of all 50 states, according to GasBuddy.com, averaging $5.44 for a gallon of regular unleaded gas vs. $4.68 in Hawaii.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-California) had endorsed a ban to put pressure on Putin.

Last year, the U.S. imported 245 million barrels of oil from Russia — about 8% of all imports, according to Associated Press — and that was up from 198 million barrels in 2020.

The United Kingdom announced a ban on Russian oil the same day as Biden, but it won’t take effect until 2023. Russian oil makes up 4% of the UK supply.

At Aptos Safeway, the price of regular unleaded has jumped from $5.09 per gallon to $5.49 per gallon. It’s $6.05 a gallon at Arco in Aptos and $6.39 at Chevron in Aptos.

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Photo Credit: Jondi Gumz

Gas prices at the Aptos Chevron Station across from Rancho Del Mar Center on March 16 Shell said it would stop buying Although lawmakers in California Russian crude oil on the spot market, and could not agree, Florida legislators agreed McDonald’s said it would temporarily to a gas tax holiday during the month of close its 850 fast-food restaurants in Russia. October.

During his State of the Union address Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican, had March 1, Biden said he would release proposed a gas tax holiday for five months.

30 million barrels from the Strategic The Florida gas tax is 27 cents per gallon, Petroleum Reserve, but that didn’t stop and unleaded gas costs $4.18 per gallon. the national average price of gasoline from For Santa Cruz County and other parts rising to $4.213 per gallon. of the state where tourism is a major part One reason for high gas prices in of the economy, the big question is: How California is the state gas tax, 51 cents per will these record gas prices affect families gallon, and due for a hike July 1, with the who drive from the Bay Area and Central summer tourism season in full swing.

Valley?

Soaring gas prices could mean And if they decide to drive here for political fallout as this is an election year, a visit, how will higher gas prices affect giving voters an opportunity to cast ballots their spending at local restaurants and on June 7 and Nov. 8. attractions?

Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed to A Yahoo analyst said gas prices would skip the three-cent gas tax hike in July, but have to reach $5.25 per gallon to be a record Democrats are not on board. high, taking inflation into account.

Kiley had proposed using some of the In Scotts Valley we’re past that point. state’s budget surplus — estimated at $46.5 In 2020, Exxon, Shell, Chevron and billion to $69.5 billion — to make up the BP posted huge losses, about $70 billion, $4.4 billion in revenue that would be lost and in 2022, they reported $70.69 billion in during a six-month gas tax holiday. profit. n

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Ginger Crinkles, A Longtime Favorite D ani Boscarelli of Soquel shares this recipe for Ginger Crinkles, a treat she’s made at her house for over 60 years.

“A softer cookie than a ginger snap, but still crisp!” she writes. “It’s unusual as it calls for oil rather than shortening or butter. And the little bit of molasses just makes it scrumptious.”

••• Ginger Crinkles 2/3 Cup Oil (I use canola--but long ago we did use vegetable) 1 Cup Sugar 1 Egg 1/4 Cup Molasses 2 Cups Flour 2 tsp Baking Soda 1/2 tsp Salt 1 tsp Cinnamon 1 tsp Ginger ~~~ 1/4 Cup more sugar into a bowl for rolling, set aside ••• Mix the oil and sugar thoroughly.

Add the egg and beat well. Add molasses.

Add dry ingredients. Roll dough into walnut sized balls and roll into the bowl

of sugar. Place balls on ungreased cookie sheets and bake at 350 for 15 minutes.

Cookies should not brown but have cracks or “crinkles” on top.

Enjoy! n

Share A Recipe!

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o you have a recipe that is a family favorite? Or maybe one from your childhood you would like to share? The Aptos Times will be publishing one recipe each issue from a community member.

Feel free to add a little history to the recipe if you want (approximately 75 words). Every issue we will randomly choose a recipe to publish.

Find your favorite and send it to cathe@cyber-times.com today!

soquelcreekwater.org/transform

Transforming Your Water for Tomorrow

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Capitola-Aptos Rotary Gives $50,000 to Sgt. Gutzwiller Memorial

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By Kieran Kelly

he campaign to build a new playground and memorial in honor of fallen Santa Cruz County Sheriff Sgt. Damon Gutzwiller received a significant boost with a $50,000 donation from the Capitola-Aptos Rotary Club.

After hearing about the project, the service organization’s membership voted to help sponsor an accessible playground at Willowbrook County Park in Aptos. The playground is part of a broader effort to renovate the park and build a lasting memorial to Sgt. Gutzwiller, who was killed in the line of duty on June 6, 2020.

“The Capitola Aptos Rotary club is proud to be a part of this lasting legacy to Sgt. Gutzwiller,” said Michele Bassi, immediate past president. “The Rotary motto is ‘Service above self’ and Sgt. Gutzwiller lived that every day. This is the least we

A child’s laughter has many healing qualities. This is why we have directed a donation from our club to support the building of an inclusive park.

— Dr. Art Dover

could do to honor his memory and show support to his family and community.”

A Santa Cruz County native, Damon Gutzwiller owned his first home in the Willowbrook neighborhood and he would often be found at Willowbrook Park playing with his beloved dog, Shasta.

Damon’s connection to the Willowbrook neighborhood made it a natural place to remember him.

A dedicated public servant, Damon served with the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office for 14 years where he rose to the rank of sergeant. He is survived by his wife and two young children, one of whom was not yet born at the time of his passing.

Damon’s friends and colleagues hope to create a place to honor his memory that his children can visit as they grow older.

Designed with the surrounding environment in mind, the memorial will include the installation of a circular seating area in a quiet part of the park that faces south towards a new flagpole. The memorial will feature engraved footprints of Sgt. Gutzwiller’s boots alongside the footprints of his young family.

In partnership with local nonprofit County Park Friends, the fundraising campaign hopes to raise $805,000 in community donations and sponsorships.

“Our community is coming together to make this memorial and park in Damon’s

Photo Credit: Kieran Kelly

With the check, left to right: Dr. Art Dover, Rotary member, Michele Bassi, immediate past president of Rotary, Ken Gorman, current president of Rotary, Terry Corwin, County Park Friends board chair, and Mariah Roberts, County Park Friends executive director. honor a reality. The Rotary’s donation is a remarkable reflection of the generosity of our community,” said Santa Cruz County Supervisor Zach Friend.

The $50,000 donation from the Capitola-Aptos Rotary will help sponsor a renovation of the park’s playground, where it will be updated with new features, like rubberized surfacing, to ensure kids of all ages and abilities can enjoy the park.

“A child’s laughter has many healing qualities. This is why we have directed a donation from our club to support the building of an inclusive park. For Sgt. Gutzwiller’s children and all of the children of

our community to heal together,” said Dr. Art Dover, who proposed the project to the club.

Construction is already underway to resurface and restripe the park’s existing tennis, pickleball and basketball courts.

Weather permitting, the newly revamped courts should open to the public by early May. Donors can sponsor individual bricks and pavers that will serve as the foundation for the memorial. Visit https://www.countyparkfriends.org/willowbrook.html for renderings of planned park renovations and more ways to get involved.

Recreational Ocean Salmon Fishery Opens April 2

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ungry for fresh salmon?

California’s recreational salmon fishery will open April 2 in ocean waters from Point Arena (38° 57’ 30” N. lat) south to the U.S./Mexico border, with a minimum size of 24 inches.

Openings for north of Point Arena will be determined in mid-April.

Ocean abundance forecasts have increased over the prior year for Sacramento River Fall Chinook and Klamath River Fall Chinook, California’s two primary target stocks. However, fishery managers recommended the Pacific Fishery Management Council take a more precautionary approach to 2022 ocean salmon seasons.

Fisheries have performed better than expected in recent years, raising concerns for sensitive, nontarget stocks of salmon, and fewer fish have returned to the rivers to spawn than expected. These concerns, along with the threat of drought and the persistent overfished status of Klamath River Fall Chinook since 2018, prompted the council to approve additional fishery restrictions in 2022.

“The 2022 fishing season will be a mix of good and bad news,” said Grace Easterbrook, an environmental scientist with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

“For recreational anglers wishing to pursue salmon off the Central

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Coast, there will be ample opportunity if the fish show. However, fishing seasons in the north will be more constrained due to the persistent low abundance of Klamath River Fall Chinook.”

The Pacific Fishery Management Council approved three fishing season alternatives for public review at its meeting Monday and will continue to accept public input before finalizing the recreational and commercial seasons next month.

A public hearing is scheduled for March 22, where the public is invited to comment on the season proposals. Final season dates will be decided at the April 6-13 meeting in Seattle, Washington.

Details on how to attend the public hearing and PFMC meeting, as well as instructions to provide public comment, can be found at www. pcouncil.org.

Anglers are advised to check for updates when planning a salmon fishing trip. Season dates, bag/possession limit information and gear restrictions can be found at www. wildlife.ca.gov/oceansalmon or by calling the Ocean Salmon Regulations Hotline at (707) 576-3429.

Public notification of any inseason change to conform state regulations to federal regulations is made through the National Marine Fisheries Service ocean salmon hotline at (800) 662-9825. n

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Frosted Foliage Is Safe to Prune

By Tony Tomeo

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inter weather is mild here, but sometimes leave vegetation frosted.

Frost was sneaky this winter, by occurring during nights between pleasantly warm days. All elements of the weather were within ranges that are normal for local climate, but their chronology was deceptive. Frost seemed unlikely after such springlike daytime weather. Some foliage was frosted only because protection from frost seemed to be unnecessary.

Frost is now unlikely for most local climates so late in the season. Only climates that are at significant elevation or significantly inland might still experience frost.

Coastal and low elevation climates are generally past their last frost dates. Some climates experience no frost at all. Except for within the coolest situations, no more vegetation should be frosted.

Therefore, it is generally safe to prune and groom away unsightly frosted vegetation. It is no longer helpful to insulate undamaged vegetation below. Any new growth that pruning of this nature may stimulate or expose should be safe from frost. Within climates that lack frost, vegetation that gets shabby from chill might also appreciate pruning and grooming.

Pruning and grooming of frosted vegetation can be challenging. Many frosted plants are already actively growing

Frosted foliage can be removed now.

in response to warmer weather. Their new growth mingles with their damaged growth that must be removed. Efficient separation of the two requires a bit of effort and persistence. Fresh and tender new growth is innately vulnerable to damage.

For example, small new shoots of angel’s trumpet break away very easily if bulky frosted stems fall onto or through them in the process of removal. New shoots of several types of canna emerge from the soil among old shoots while it is too early to cut the old shoots to the ground. Grooming is easier where it can happen earlier, or for cannas that grow later.

••• Candytuft lyssum is popular because of its lightly fragrant and lacy white bloom that lasts through most of the year. It seems to be more perennial than it actually is because it sows seed to replace aging plants.

Candytuft, Iberis sempervirens, is a bit less prolific with bloom and fragrance, but otherwise resembles alyssum. Without seeding, it can be nicely perennial.

Candytuft does not get much larger than Candytuft is like a perennial alyssum although alyssum. it supposedly has potential to get almost a foot high and a foot-and-a-half wide. Shearing after bloom phases enhances foliar density and subsequent bloom. Primary bloom occurs during late winter, spring, or perhaps early summer. Minor random bloom is possible at any time, particularly autumn.

Plants propagate readily by division of small tufts of rooted stems from within established plants. Alternatively, creeping outer stems develop roots if simply pressed into the soil or held down with stones.

Pruning scraps are tiny and awkward to handle, but can grow as cuttings. When disturbed, candytuft exudes an aroma similar to that of related cabbages, which might be objectionable to some. n ••• Horticulturist Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo.com.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Cabrillo President Responds to Burning of Pride Flag

Letter to the Community from Matt Wetstein

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his morning (March 5), College leadership was made aware that the Pride Flag that had been displayed at El Patio in Watsonville was burned overnight.

A student worker found the flag next to Building B. A police report has been filed, we are requesting security camera footage, and are working with the Watsonville Police Department to ensure that this act of vandalism is investigated as a hate-motivated crime.

This is deeply upsetting and we take this matter very seriously, as the second act of vandalism and hate to occur on Cabrillo’s campus within the past two weeks. It is especially disturbing, because students love that flag, and several students came to El Patio specifically to take their photo with the flag.

I would like to repeat the message that I sent out last week: Cabrillo is a community that values diversity and promotes a safe and equitable environment for all students, faculty and staff, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. There is absolutely no place at Cabrillo for intolerance nor hatred of any kind. We welcome, support, and stand as allies with our members of the LGBTQ+ community.

If you See Something — Say Something. If anyone sees any act of vandalism — especially one that is hate motivated — in our community spaces and forums, please make a report at Cabrillo’s Just Report It! webpage or call the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s non-emergency line at 831-471-1122. Reports and consultations can also be directed to Cabrillo’s Title IX / Civil Rights Compliance Officer Anna Bartkowski at anbartko@cabrillo.edu or 831-477-3373.

Through the fast actions of our Facilities Department, I am pleased to report that a new, larger Pride Flag is already being flown on the flagpole at the Watsonville Center. I have ordered that the Gay Pride Flag be displayed on both campuses for the next 30 days. Thank you Jon Salisbury and team.

We remain steadfastly committed to creating and maintaining a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment at Cabrillo College. Please join me in reaffirming this commitment, and standing in solidarity with members of our LGBTQ+ community.

In the paragraphs below I have copied statements from two Cabrillo College Governing Board members: “Acts of violence and intimidation at Cabrillo that target any minoritized

New Pride flag at Cabrillo’s Watsonville Center

community are unacceptable, and the burning of an LGBTQ pride flag on our Watsonville campus is no exception,” said Adam Spickler, Cabrillo Governing Board Member. “As an out LGBTQ elected leader at our college, I know how critical it is we make sure every student, staff and faculty member feels safe at our college. We will act quickly and courageously to ensure Cabrillo stays welcoming and safe for everyone.

“We will also do what we do best as an outstanding institution of higher education — we will lean into this horrific act as a teachable moment. We will increase opportunities to showcase positive representations of LGBTQ people, history, and events at Cabrillo. We will hold stronger to developing pedagogy that deconstructs bias, demands equity, and celebrates inclusion in our classrooms and across our campuses. We will hold each other up in the face of this single act of hate to remind each other that the love, equity, and justice we collectively fight for far outshines the darkness this incident brings.”

“Pride Flag” page 26 PVUSD Trustee Fails to Represent Students VUSD Trustee Jennifer Holm, who represents Aptos schoolchildren, should resign or be recalled.

Holm showed she doesn’t care about what’s best for kids when she refused to vote on the resolution at the March 9 PVUSD board meeting to follow CDPH guidance and make masks optional.

A cop-out, Holm cited her position on the board of the California Nurses Association union as a conflict of interest.

For Holm to take the side of the

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PVUSD Superintendent‘s March 11 Letter on Masks

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ear PVUSD Community, Next week, we will begin a new phase of the pandemic together. We will collectively implement new public health guidance to highly recommend masks, leading from a stance of kindness, empathy and compassion for ourselves and all others.

PVUSD has been committed to following the California Department of Education, California Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and local public health orders throughout the last 24 months of the pandemic. We have done so in recognition of the importance of protecting the health and safety of its students, staff, families and community from the detrimental effects of COVID-19.

With declining case rates and hospitalizations throughout California, the County of Santa Cruz and PVUSD, Gov. Newsom announced that after 11:59 pm on March 11, 2022, masking indoors for schools and childcare facilities will transition from being required to being highly recommended.

On March 9, 2022, the PVUSD Board passed Resolution #21-22-30. We recognize that the removal of the mask mandate represents a significant shift and want to provide clarity around universal implementation protocols.

All PVUSD school sites and individual classrooms will conform with the new Santa Cruz County public health order. School sites and individual classrooms may not develop independent criteria or implementation scenarios.

For clarity, I want to highlight portions of the resolution,which states PVUSD will: • Commit to educating all students, staff and families on the importance of wearing a face covering and are

nurses’ union over students she was elected to serve is another example of her persistent weak leadership.

PVUSD students deserve leaders who have their best interests at heart and do everything in their power to stop the heavy-handed mandates that do nothing to protect children or teachers.

PVUSD students are not better served under Holm.

In fact, they are not served at all.

We must find real leaders for our children.

— Shanna Crigger, Aptos

strongly recommended to wear a face covering within all PVUSD facilities as highly recommended by CDPH, • Continue to work alongside Santa Cruz County Public Health to monitor COVID-19 positivity rates, incidents of in-school transmission, school outbreaks, hospitalization capacity and other indicators in order to implement additional mitigation strategies as necessary, • Provide all staff with N95 (or comparable) masks every six weeks and students as requested, • Provide surveillance testing twice a week at all school sites and departments and symptomatic testing through the District Office through Inspire Diagnostic for the remainder of the 2021-2022 school year, • Monitor air quality through the replacement of HEPA air filters, and provide up to two portable HEPA units in the classrooms when required for immunocompromised students and staff • Work with labor partners to identify additional mitigation strategies to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff.

The resolution also clearly states that regardless of whether students wear or do not wear a mask, the District will safeguard from harassment, intimidation, or bullying for their choice.

A PVUSD staff member requesting that a student wear a mask under the current public health guidance represents an imbalanced power scenario. Per Board Policy 5131.2, bullying is “unwanted or aggressive behavior” that involves a “power imbalance.”

It is critical that all staff are aware of the influence they have over students.

Staff may not pressure students or colleagues to wear or not wear masks, nor may students pressure their peers to wear or not wear masks.

Staff may state the District’s policy (specifically that they are strongly encouraged to wear masks) and if a student requests a mask, you should provide one. You should not, however, provide a mask to a student simply because they are not wearing one.

Staff also may not make statements to students that maybe perceived as a threat or pressure to wear a mask.

“PVUSD Masks” page 26

COMMUNITY NEWS

Agri-Culture Scholarship Winners A gri-Culture announced scholarships to four students March 16 at the National Agriculture Day spring luncheon, sponsored by the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau and AgriCulture, at Heritage Hall at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds.

The winners are:

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Jimmie Cox Memorial Scholarship

Crystal Salazar

senior at Watsonville High School, she has a grade-point average of 3.930 and plans to attend CSU Monterey Bay where she will major in agriculture, plant & soil science to pursue a career as a soil scientist.

In March 2020, Crystal received the Cesar Chavez Community Award for her volunteer work with Empower Watsonville, a youth-led organization aimed at reducing teen substance abuse in the Pajaro Valley.

Crystal will receive $4,000,with $2,000 coming from American AgCredit.

Crystal Salazar

McKenna Wood

Jeannie Witmer Memorial Scholarship

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McKenna Wood

2019 graduate of San Benito High School, she attended West Hills Community College from 2019-2021, and transferred to Fresno State University in August 2021.

Her college grade-point average is 3.47. She expects to graduate in 2023 with a degree in liberal studies. She participated in High School Rodeo District 4 from 6th grade through her senior year in high school.

She will receive $1,500.

Colby Galassi

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Miguel Sanchez-Ramirez

Laura Brown Memorial Scholarship

Colby Galassi

senior at Watsonville High School, she has a grade-point average of 4.067. She plans to attend Cal Poly San Luis Obispo where she will major in agricultural education to pursue a career as an ag teacher.

Colby is class president at Watsonville High, and has served in student government all four years.

Colby is the vice president of Watsonville FFA. Colby will receive $2,000.

JJ Crosetti, Jr. Memorial Scholarship

Miguel Sanchez-Ramirez

A senior at Watsonville High School, he has a grade-point average of 3.727. He plans to attend CSU Monterey Bay where he will major in agriculture business management to pursue a career as a supply chain manager.

In 2021, he received a Hero in Prevention Award from the nonprofit Pajaro Valley Prevention & Student Assistance.

He plays on the Watsonville High School golf team.

He will receive $1,000. n ••• Agri-Culture President Steve Bontadelli said, “We had several impressive applicants this year, we wish we could have given them all a scholarship.

We are happy to assist these wonderful young men and women with their college expenses and are excited for them to return to our agriculture community once they have completed their schooling.”

A Senior Helping Other Seniors Go Back to Work

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hether out of enjoyment or necessity, more and more older Americans are working past what others consider retirement age.

At age 70, Shelly Labinger chooses to work.

She got her first job at 16 and hasn’t stopped, working at many different jobs — from telephone operator to private chef.

However, as a senior citizen, she found it more difficult to get hired.

“I like to work, but it got to the point where it was harder for people 55 and older to find jobs,” she said. “I look good on a resume, but when someone sees me they think it’s a big liability, so I had to sell myself.”

Surveys show that when older workers lose jobs, it generally takes them twice as long as their younger counterparts to get a job offer. Often they earn half as much they did at their previous job.

Wanting to work and fight the stigma of hiring older workers, Labinger landed at Goodwill Central Coast, where she runs a senior job placement program operated by nonprofit National Association for Hispanic Elderly, based in Pasadena.

ANPPM (a Spanish-language acronym for Asociación Nacional Pro Personas Mayores) works with 500 partner organizations to deliver services focused on economic sustainability for older people.

“People want to work,” Labinger said.

Shelly Labinger helps older people find jobs.

“It gives a lot of confidence to an individual, that they are not just sitting around watching soap operas.”

Through the program at Goodwill Central Coast’s Career Center in Salinas, Labinger helps seniors find work, develop new skills, build financial security, and combat feelings of loneliness and unworthiness.

Initially hired at a Goodwill store organizing clothing, Labinger saw herself as

a fit in the Career Center. She depends on referrals from government programs, but works mostly by word of mouth. She spends much time speaking to senior centers and veterans groups to spread the word about ANPPM’s services through Goodwill.

“There are a lot of jobs out there,” she said. “A lot of people in the senior age bracket need to work because Social Security does not cover all their expenses, especially in Monterey County.”

About 35 percent of the workforce in the U.S. comprises people age 55 and older.

More than 60 percent of those folks work for financial reasons while 38 percent work for personal reasons.

“Many seniors still feel they have something to offer,” Labinger said. “And we’re here to help bring out their confidence and show them the way.”

The program requires participants to live at or near poverty level, and out of the job market for at least a year. Labinger has helped seniors from many backgrounds, including those with disabilities.

“The Department of Rehabilitation sent an 86-year-old person who is legally blind and wanted to work,” she said. “We do all we can, and try our best to show them they are still viable. A strong desire to work, to me, outweighs any disability.”

Labinger can share many success stories. Recently she sat down with an older homeless man who roamed the streets of Chinatown in Salinas.

“He was homeless and disheveled, and I told him he would have to clean himself up and give himself a chance,” she said. “It wasn’t cruel to say that, just reality.

Well, he came back to me with new secondhand clothes, his beard trimmed, and now he does fantastic work on the loading dock at Goodwill.”

“Seniors At Work” page 27

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FEATURED COLUMNIST

Proven Tips for Your Next Trip Abroad

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hinking of taking an international trip? You’re such a contrarian.

Only a third of Americans are comfortable with traveling internationally now, according to the latest figures from Morning Consult.

Why the hesitation? It could be all the required paperwork — passports, COVID tests and vaccination documentation. But mostly, people are afraid of crossing the border because of changing health and safety requirements, says Greg Pearson, CEO of FocusPoint International, a global assistance company.

“They don’t want to get stuck,” he says.

But if you can overcome your worries about international travel, there’s a reward: Lower prices, no crowds and a better overall experience. Question is, how do you get that?

It boils down to a few essential tips that will help you survive your next trip abroad. They include acting soon to secure the lowest prices, minding the paperwork requirements, and getting enough protection.

“International travel has always required more planning than domestic in most cases,” says Lindsey Roeschke, Morning Consult’s travel and hospitality analyst. “That being said, it can still be done.”

By Christopher Elliott

For example, the French have required health or vaccine passes for entry to cultural or leisure establishments since last summer — as of March 14, they will no longer be necessary.

Getting one was actually easy: you’d just take your U.S. vaccination card into any pharmacy to get the health pass, which you’ll then flash for entry to restaurants, museums and hotels. Vazquez says if people understood how little extra effort it took, they might book an international trip.

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Get Protection tep one to overcoming your fears: Get protection. Lots of protection. Chris Hutchins, creator of All the Hacks, a podcast that features travel advice, says COVID-related travel insurance is a must.

“If you test positive abroad, you won’t be able to return to the U.S., which means you could be stuck with expenses to change flights, and extend your accommodations,” he says. He uses Trawick International’s Safe Travels Voyager policy and also recommends looking at protection from Covac Global, which will cover the cost to transport you home if you test positive.

There are other ways of making sure you’re covered. A membership in Medjet Assist for medical evacuations or FocusPoint’s Care & Assistance Plus, which handles security and medical evacuations, can make your international trip as close to a sure thing as it gets.

A few Extra Steps f you’re afraid of the extra paperwork, relax.

“Essentially, you can do all of the same things you could before the pandemic, just with a few added steps of paperwork and vaccination proof,” says Henley Vazquez, co-founder of the travel advisory site Fora.

Last Minute Hotel Booking otels are still hurting for guests in many international destinations.

That won’t last forever. On a recent trip to Costa Rica, Janice Lintz decided to take advantage of the buyer’s market.

“I booked most of my hotels only a few days in advance, and some as late as the night before arrival,” says Lintz, a disability consultant from New York.

She says she saved more than 60% by booking directly with the hotel and about 50% through online travel agencies.

“There was plenty of availability,” she says.

Note: If you try this, make sure you’re extra flexible, and research the hotels at your destination before you arrive. If they fill up fast, you could end up sleeping on a park bench.

Don’t Wait f you’re thinking of taking an international trip, do it now, experts say.

“For the next few months, destinations will remain far less crowded than they were before the pandemic,” says Justin Smith, president of The Evolved Traveler, a member of Ensemble Travel Group. “Travelers can have a far richer experience.”

How rich? Well, imagine being at the Pyramids with 200 other people instead of 2,000. It’ll feel like you have the place to yourself. You may not have that opportunity again for years, if ever.

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Book Airline Tickets Now ou’ll need to buy your airline ticket three to four months in advance of your travel date if you’re interested in getting the lowest airfare. That’s according to Expedia’s 2022 Travel Hacks Report.

“Timing is key,” says Christie Hudson, an Expedia spokeswoman. “August is the cheapest month to fly internationally. Travelers can save almost 20%, and because this is a less busy time to travel, they’ll likely save a bit on lodging as well.”

According to Expedia, Sunday is the ideal day to book an international flight, providing additional savings of nearly 10%.

Prep for Quarantine t may seem unlikely you’ll find yourself in quarantine, given all the loosening of restrictions and mask requirements. But it’s not out of the question. Remember, no one expected the omicron variant.

“Have access to funds to pay for unexpected quarantine expenses,” advises Dan Stretch, operations manager for Global Rescue. “Pack things to keep you occupied if you’re unfortunate and get quarantined. Ask hotel booking agents what their policy is if you need to cancel or delay due to COVID.”

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Book a COVID Test hances are, many countries will still have COVID testing requirements in place this spring and summer, says Christine Petersen, CEO of smarTours.

“Book a COVID test ahead of time to save time,” she recommends. “You could spend hours waiting in line, taking precious time away from your trip.”

Tour operators like hers make arrangements ahead of time for the whole group so they have more time for a vacation.

Take a Deep Breath he pandemic has turned international travel upside down. There are restrictions and vaccination requirements. And one of the worst parts is air travel, says Warren Jaferian, dean of international education at Endicott College.

“Being on an airplane can feel like you’re a lab animal,” he says. “Just breathe through your mask and try to relax. That’s the best medicine.” n Christopher Elliott is the chief advocacy officer for Elliott Advocacy. Email: chris@ elliott.org or get help at http://www.elliott.org/ help. This story originally appeared in USA Today. © 2022 Christopher Elliott.

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FEATURED COLUMNIST

Happy Sixth Business Birthday!

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By Ron Kustek

er the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 5-year survival rate for businesses (before Covid) was just under

50%.

Though this differed by business segments, if you’re celebrating your 5th or 6th year in business, congratulations! Especially being able to stay in business since 2020.

Did you know that 20% of small businesses fail after 2 years, 50% after 5 years, and 70% go under after 10 years?

So why do businesses fail? According to a Jan. 22 article in FastCompany, there are 5 key reasons: No. 1: Failure To Assess The Market.

42% of businesses fail because there is no market, no demand for what they are offering! It’s great to follow one’s passion.

But if you are planning to support yourself and/or your family, then you need to find your passion — and the passionate demand of enough people in the area (or online) who are wanting to purchase your product or service. There have been many businesses buried in the graveyard of innovation, only because they had the wrong timing or ineffective communications in their marketing investments.

No. 2: Failure To Build A Successful Team. Many businesses hire for convenience, hiring friends or family — even though they may not be the most qualified employee. People are still the key to business success, no matter how much we post on social media, or optimize our website, it is still the personal, friendly, understanding and supportive interaction that makes a customer, and keeps a customer loyal! Too many businesses hire for convenience instead of hiring the absolute best people to represent their company.

No. 3: Failure To Create A Point Of Difference. Please, for your sake, don’t believe that your differentiation is that you “offer the best quality at affordable prices”. Every business says this, which by definition — is NOT a point of difference! Do you offer the best experience?

Do you provide the best service, including guarantees? Do you have the most friendly staff? Do you have a location with an ambience that no one

has here in Santa Cruz? These are the ways you can be better, special and different. But remember, being better, special and different only counts if that’s what your target customers desire and are willing to pay for!

No. 4: Failure To Use Technology Correctly. If you don’t know how to communicate or advertise, then your business will simply fail. Getting the ‘right location’ these days is just not enough! People walk by a storefront every day. What makes your business compelling enough to attract the right customer? You need to be able to use online advertising, especially social media advertising, to target your specific customer who you know needs your product or service, and is the most likely to buy from you. But if you don’t know EXACTLY who they are or HOW to reach them, then you’re simply not going to be able to, risking your business success.

No. 5: Failure To Adequately Finance The Business. Besides your start-up costs, you need to be able to understand cash flow, profitability, managing key performance indicators that drive your business, and what to measure for your success. Just “advertising” or “posting on social media” isn’t enough to make a business successful.

You should have at least 12 months of savings to be able to manage your cash flow. Businesses also need to know the difference between cash flow and profits. Or how to effectively gauge their expenses, and how every decision impacts their profit & loss, including their tax situation. It’s more important to have a great accountant than to use software that doesn’t take into consideration your personal as well as business tax situation.

Bottom Line: Get educated. You can

enroll in entrepreneurship courses at Cabrillo College.

Also, just do your homework.

Research is more than a Google search.

You need to conduct specific research in the county and/or city that you plan on doing business in, which you won’t find just Google-ing it.

Finally, get support from those who know how to start and operate a business.

Whether that’s from an instructor, or a mentor from SCORE, or from the Small

Business Development Center, please, don’t go at this alone. There are many of us who are available to help you reach your dream — successfully — for longer than 6 years!!! n ••• Ron Kustek is the Business Department Chair and instructor at Cabrillo College. He was formerly a senior marketing executive with Coca-Cola USA as well as launching multiple small businesses. Contact him at RoKustek@ cabrillo.edu.

The Oscars

ACROSS

1. “In the Hall of the Mountain King” composer Edvard ____ 6. Marlboro debris 9. *Academy Award ceremony audience sound 13. Botch 14. Sigma ____ fraternity 15. Ten million, in India 16. Embryo sacs 17. Literary “even” 18. Tax evader’s fear 19. *Most nominated streamer in this year’s Oscars 21. *Most-nominated Black actor in Oscar history 23. Opposite of yang

24. Lard cousin 25. *Milk ___ movie snack 28. Poetic source of Norse mythology 30. 2020 demographic event 35. Arrival times, acronym 37. Baseball points 39. Camelot to King Arthur 40. Actress Campbell 41. *Where Oscar-winner “Slumdog Millionaire” was set 43. Not in favor 44. *What Halle Berry did when she won an Oscar in 2002 46. Jet black 47. Lively 48. Paid killers (2 words) 50. Upon 52. Rally repeater 53. Sweet-talk

55. Not outs 57. *Total Oscar nominations for “The Power of the Dog” 60. *One of this year’s Oscar hosts 64. Exotic juice flavor 65. *Jamie Foxx won an Oscar in 2005 for this flick 67. Bizet’s “Carmen,” e.g.

68. Off kilter 69. *1942’s “Holiday ____,” Oscar winner 70. Admit (2 words) 71. Afterward 72. And so on acronym 73. Took the Kool-Aid 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Kilimanjaro top, e.g.

Pronoun Hinduism follower *”Parallel Mothers” nominee Penelope 10. Prospector’s mother 11. Seed coat 12. Lassie, e.g.

15. Type of horse gait 20. Lemur from Madagascar 22. European Economic Community 24. Playground attraction 25. *”Belfast” nominee, “Shakespeare in Love” winner 26. First cradles 27. Lifeboat support DOWN J. Edgar Hoover’s man 29. *Denis Villeneuve’s sci-fi nominee Ice on a window 31. Type of tide Antonym of “is” 32. Not so crazy Enlighten 33. Extremist Puck stopper

34. *”King Richard” nominee, once a fresh prince 36. Give an impression 38. Land of Israel 42. Shenanigan 45. Remove claws 49. Presidential election mo.

51. Waiting on the phone (2 words) 54. Eagle’s nest 56. Like the Incredibles 57. Backside 58. Boat track 59. Not odd 60. Update, as in a FitBit 61. Formerly Facebook 62. *Julia Robert’s 2001 Oscar-winning role 63. Colonel or captain 64. Gangster’s gun 66. ____ eater or ____ hill © Statepoint Media

Answers on 31 »

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2022 / 25

A Poem for Lent — Days and Nights of Reflection Esoteric Astrology • Mid-March 2021 • By Risa D’Angeles

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pring begins (Sun in Aries) next Sunday, March 20th in our northern latitudes. It is also International Astrology Day. Soon it will be Easter, the resurrection (of life in nature) festival. The weeks leading up to Easter are preparatory days called Lent (Old English for Spring, lengthening of day).

Lent offers us a time to prepare our bodies and create new rhythms, to reflect upon the last year. It is good to consider cultivating a sense of giving (gifting) during Lent. Giving creates a divine circulatory flow of energies. What is given is returned 10-fold. All actions, intentions and dedications generate an energy field.

What do we give? Not necessarily things, but the gifts of praise, recognition, deep listening, thoughts of Goodwill, prayers and blessings for others.

And choosing kindness always. All acts of generosity, Goodwill and kindness create an energetic field of light that radiates outward to all that is around us.

When thinking of offering/giving money....consider community values, complementary currencies, sharing, bartering, exchange. The Right Use of Money is a major test for humanity at this time. This is part of the First Initiation for humanity – the Initiation in Bethlehem, House of Bread.

ARIES

You will feel “in alignment” this month as many new ideas (that become ideals) and unusual revelations are impressed upon your mind.

Pay deep attention. They are important and will stabilize your actions and self-identity in the coming challenging times. View and interact in groups with discrimination. Stand tall and courageous and remember that fear just means you need more information. Research.

LEO

Things religious, spiritual, philosophical, legal and adventuresome along with places far from here play upon your mind. You create intentions to be better organized; you prefer plans and agendas to include culture, travel and a sustained just philosophy. It’s important to know how to handle other people’s resources (inner and outer).

Seek to learn what is of value about and within each person. Then you recognize how to honor them.

TAURUS

You’re ceaselessly serving others throughout much of each day. Working behind the scenes allows you to read, study, research, think and ponder on things undisturbed. Sometimes you’re far away from home tending to life and death situations or medical emergencies. You must turn toward yourself now and begin to heal, using different healing modalities, vitamins, minerals and a special healing diet. Just for you.

GEMINI

The times are preparing everyone for the future. And you’re being prepared for a particular future work. With your rulers Mercury and Venus, one preparation is right communication; the other is bringing all that is separate into a unity. Geminis are to point out the dualities of light and dark on our planet. And then assure humanity of the “love that underlies all events in their world” which will save them. Can you do this? During the coming weeks you reflect upon friends, past, present and future. The next Mercury retrograde is in May. CANCER

You may be remembering the many friends and groups you’ve affiliated with over time. There was a recognition, a call to leadership, an ability to teach and to help others in need.

Do you have a future wish and hope to be fulfilled? Are you considering people far away? Is there a community interaction you seek to participate in? Over the years you’ve developed discrimination, ethics and ideals.

How is your garden? Share what you grow.

Here is a Lenten poem for contemplation: You have traveled too fast over false ground; Now your soul has come to take you back Take refuge in your senses, open up to all the small miracles you rushed through.

Become inclined to watch the way of rain when it falls slow and free.

Imitate the habit of twilight, taking time to open the color that fostered the brightness of day.

Draw alongside the silence of stone.

Until its calmness can claim you.

Be excessively gentle with yourself.

Stay clear of those vexed in spirit.

Learn to linger around someone of ease Who feels they have all the time in the world.

Gradually, you return to yourself.

Having learned a new respect for your heart And the joy that dwells far within.

••• From To Bless the Space Between Us: A Book of Blessings by John O’Donohue, published in the U.K. as Benedictus. O’Donohue was a poet, theologian & philosopher.

VIRGO

Work continues to be a stabilizing and expansive influence. You develop new ways of relating to everyone professionally and this creates an effective level of leadership. Your power is greater than you recognize and more than most comprehend. Careful with the authority you have become. Intentionally balance discipline, structure, will and kindness. Let love rule. So all can love and give too.

SAGITTARIUS

In your daily life, be willing to listen carefully to others, agree with and participate in their ideas.

Listen more than talking. Just ask questions. This creates a loving emotional balance in your life. Should you do this you will be seen as one who is wise, intelligent and thoughtful – a person of tenderness and care. Begin to consciously cooperate, share and offer praise. These create Right Relations within and without. Right Relations is one of the Laws of the Aquarian Age. CAPRICORN

Your consistent care and nourishment given to family, friends, to the past and to tradition leads to a depth of unexpected feelings along with recognition by others. You are, to family, the “love that underlies all things”. This you consistently give to them. Sometimes our families are far away. If this is the situation radiate Goodwill from your heart to those around you. Then people, walking into your radiant light, feel you are their family, too.

AQUARIUS

Watch with care all resources, finances, money. Be very aware of what your values are. Maintain Your heart is filled with love for another (new, present or communication with family and siblings. past relationship). Love changes you. You Are you moving about a lot, does your present environment need change and think about money in terms of legacies, inheritances, stocks, investments, taxes improvement for you to feel safe and secure? Commuor savings. Tend to debts and become nicate to everyone what your needs are. A new opportunity resourceful. Tithe generously. Bring all ideas, concerns reveals itself recognizing your talents and your work in the world. Tell everyone what you want to do and be. Work and information into the light for discussion. And consider transforms us. what would sustain you (food, people, items, books, elixirs, etc.) if the world suddenly changed.

PISCES Sun, Mercury, Jupiter and Neptune are in Pisces. So many shifts of moods, so many rememSCORPIO brances, some sad, some joyful. Thoughts With your present work situation, consider creating a appear about the future. A new home, a caring work environment along with new new foundation and purpose, new work, methods of well-being, communications new challenges Neptune is dropping the veils between and trainings. Tend daily to your physical kingdoms making you exceptionally sensitive, aware of health, eliminating all sugars, most grains hurts with, to and from others. Hurts in the world too. and gluten. Make sure to care for your financial health as Mercury opens the door to intuition, Jupiter the heart. You well. In the meantime, remember to have fun, play more and miss so many things which are dissolving away. Find your seek the artistic, the kind and the beautiful. Then your heart place in the garden. Remain there. Especially at dawn and dusk. The devas will join you. expands exponentially.

••• LIBRA

Risa D’Angeles • www.nightlightnews.org • risagoodwill@gmail.com 26 / March 15th 2022 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“Pride Flag” from page 22 Fellow Cabrillo Board Member Steve Trujillo also commented on the incident: “This is a senseless act of vandalism and it does not represent the caring spirit that is so prominent at the Watsonville Center.

We reject these acts of hatred and want students to know that Cabrillo is here for you as a safe space and a place of friendship and support.” Trujillo is also gay and in 2019 was recognized by the Santa Cruz Diversity Center Award as a “Community Hero” Award winner.

Board President Donna Ziel described the action as “hateful and not representative of the culture and values that Cabrillo College promotes for its students and employees.”

“It is my hope that our college response will make it clear that all students are welcome at the college, and that we value the safe and inviting campus culture we create for our community.”

In response to this incident I also want to indicate that on Monday morning, March 7, starting at 10:30 am, the College will hold a flag raising ceremony at the Watsonville Center to allow the community to come together for a collective positive response to this incident. The event will feature Board President Donna Ziel, and fellow trustees Adam Spickler, Felipe Hernandez, and Steve Trujillo. All are invited to attend this event in a show of fellowship and support for our LGBTQ students and employees.

Yours in solidarity with our community.

— Matt Wetstein

“PVUSD Masks” from page 22 For example, if you have a health condition that puts you at greater risk, you should not tell students that they should wear a mask for your sake. If you have such a condition, you may, however, request an extra HEPA unit, request additional N95 or KN95 masks, and/or contact Human Resources if you have concerns with regard to a health condition that puts you at higher risk.

As we move collectively into this next phase of the pandemic, we will continue to follow the County of Santa Cruz public health order aligned with Gov. Newsom’s recent shift that masking indoors for schools and childcare facilities will transition from being required to being highly recommended.

Our students are looking to each of us once again to model kindness, empathy and compassion as we safeguard our collective health. The District is committed to helping all staff, students and families with the transition to the new mask policy. n — Dr. Michelle Rodriguez, Superintendent of Schools

COMMUNITY NEWS

Input Sought on Zoning Code Update T he County of Santa Cruz is seeking public feedback for the Sustainability Policy and Regulatory Update at six virtual meetings starting March 16 and concluding April 20. All meetings will be 6:30-8 p.m.

The plan, which covers housing, transportation, agriculture and resource conservation, sustainable communities, code modernization, commercial development, community services and environmental justice, will serve as a blueprint for future land use and transportation priorities within unincorporated areas of the county.

Drafts have been prepared to update the general plan and for proposed countywide design guidelines, which includes design principles for the Pleasure

Point commercial corridor, and some rezoning for key opportunity sites and to correct zoning inconsistencies.

One “built environment” proposed policy is to encourage small markets and groceries to locate in “food deserts” where there are not currently healthy food options within a one-half mile radius, and if that is not feasible, then encourage neighborhood corner stores, scheduled food truck visits, and farmer’s markets selling fresh produce and other healthy foods For details, see www.sccoplanning. com/SustainabilityUpdate

The update responds to new state law, new initiatives driven by prior public engagement, and priorities of the Board of Supervisors, including the Sustainable Santa Cruz County Plan, pre-

pared in 2014.

Officials say the Sustainability Update is being conducted through an equity lens, consistent with priorities under the Vision Santa Cruz County strategic plan.

Community meeting topics are: Monday, March 21: Introduction and overview

Monday, March 28: Built environment and community design.

Tuesday, April 5: Transportation.

Tuesday, April 12: Agriculture, environmental resources, and public facilities Wednesday, April 20: Code modernization and map amendments.

A draft of the general plan, local coastal program and code are due to be released this year, followed by release of the draft environmental impact report.

Review by the Santa Cruz County Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors will be in the summer or fall this year. Approval of the California Coastal Commission is required. n ••• More information: https://www.facebook. com/countyofsantacruz/events

Not Too Late to Answer Survey on Cabrillo College Name

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ptos Times asked Cabrillo College for an update on the name exploration process.

Christina Cuevas, the trustee who chairs the Cabrillo Name Exploration Board Subcommittee, answered these questions and Terrence Willett, director of planning, research, and institutional effectiveness, provided the data.

••• Is there a statement explaining the new timetable for the name exploration? s described at the Feb. 7 Board of Trustees meeting, the Name Exploration Subcommittee met on Jan. 28 to review the status of its work plan and determine a timeline for future activity. At that time, we realized that pressing issues on campus had delayed our initial plans of developing a report by the spring semester.

The subcommittee also had interest in generating more input from Cabrillo and K-12 students. Thus, the delay was three-fold: pandemic required shift back to online classes, shifts in key leadership roles

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and the need for more input from current and future students.

The subcommittee agreed to revise the initial timeline of its work from spring to fall 2022.

The current plan is to complete the analysis of the Opinion Survey data in spring. Survey results as well as other input received via virtual dialogues, emails, and letters, along with review of the material shared by experts during the educational sessions will be analyzed and summarized into a draft report during the summer.

Based on the alignment of the information described above with the principles that are guiding the exploration, the

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Kudos to Aptos Times ust have to congratulate you for producing the Aptos Times!

A friend brought me the current copy and especially for one long sequestered at home, the paper is a delightful well of information about the community where we’ve lived for 50-60 years.

We’ve subscribed to the Pajaronian all that time, and the Christian Science

J

Monitor, but usually considered Santa Cruz-oriented papers beyond our interests.

Now the Aptos Times fills us in on what’s happening at the library, and Cabrillo College, traffic planning and more — even creative writing from Joe Ortiz.

Thanks so much.

— DeAnne Hart, Aptos Hills/Watsonville

subcommittee will prepare a recommendation regarding the name change question to be presented to the Board of Trustees for a decision by the end of the fall semester.

How many people did you hear from during the process? mails and communications to the subcommittee to date include 300 responses from a mix of students (4.7%), alumni (11.7%), faculty/staff (13.4%), donors (34.9%) and community members (35%).

Do you have a sense of how many alumni vs. current students responded? f 811 survey respondents, about 3/4 had taken at least one class at Cabrillo and 1 in 7 are current students.

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I don’t have the zoom counts but I’ll wager we had at least 500 total unique participants across all the workshops.

Administration and faculty are encouraging students to respond to the Opinion Survey, which will close on March 31.

The Santa Cruz County Office of Education and local school districts have been invited to encourage students to complete the survey.

Are you expecting to have some in-person forums before a decision is made?

Once we have more information regarding the response to the survey/ emails/letters from faculty/student groups, we may wish to consider the possibility of an in-person Town Hall-type session.

Timing and venue are always an issue, and the shifting status of the pandemic must also be taken into consideration.

No specific plans to convene in-person forums currently exist. n

“Seniors At Work” from page 23 Labinger helped another homeless man, from Colombia, secure a job at Natividad Medical Center as a translator.

Both men have secured low-income housing and are off the streets.

“I love my job,” Labinger said. “I think it’s necessary.

I know how they are feeling and the frustrations they go through. And I see the side of businesses, too. I’ve been a manager before, and you can’t afford to hire problems, of any age. But if you give some with desire a chance to succeed, they will almost always surprise you.” n

Goodwill puts people to work.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2022 / 27

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS DROUGHT VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT Under SB 522, the Santa Cruz County Water Advisory Commission is establishing a new “Drought Response Working Group” to help develop a plan for small water systems and domestic wells within Santa Cruz County.

The Commission is seeking two at-large representatives for the nine-member group, including an at-large environmental community representative and an at-large public representative, with priority for the latter given to well owners in areas not covered by a groundwater sustainability agency. Representatives will be expected to commit to 15-20 hours of meetings between late April through October.

The deadline to apply is March 25. For an application, visit https://scceh.com/Home/Programs/WaterResources/WaterAdvisoryCommission.aspx Other representatives include six public agency representatives and an environmental justice/affordability representative.

using samples pulled at the time of donation and sent to a testing laboratory where they will undergo routine infectious disease testing. A positive antibody test result does not confirm infection or immunity.

COVID-19 antibody test results will be available 1-2 weeks after donation in the Red Cross Blood Donor App HOOKED! SEA & SIP DINNER SERIES or at RedCrossBlood.org.

Wild Fish Restaurant, 545 Lighthouse, Pacific Grove Save up to 15 minutes with a RapidPass answering Wild Fish Restaurant will host three Sea & Sip dinners the health history questionnaire online, on the day of from 6-9 p.m. to benefit local nonprofits. donation, from a mobile device. See instructions at Thursday, March 24 — Benefiting the Monterey Bay Fisheries Trust Community Seafood Program. Meet RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App. Calder Deyerle, local fisherman and fishmonger.

Individuals who are 17 or older, weigh at least 110 pounds Wednesday, June 22 and in good health may be eligible to donate blood. Bring — Benefiting Meals on a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of Wheels of the Monterey identification.

Peninsula. Meet organic farmers from Spade and COMCAST: WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS CAN RISE Plough.

Comcast RISE is a multi-year commitment to provide Thursday, Nov. 3 — marketing, creative, media, and technology services to Benefiting Ag Against small businesses owned by people of color and all small Hunger. Winemaker’s businesses owned by women. dinner.

Calder Deyerle Comcast is accepting applications for the next phase Sip hand-crafted of RISE until June 17. If your business qualifies, you’ll cocktails and local wines, savor organic sustainable have the opportunity to receive one or more of these bounty from local fishermen, farmers & foragers and learn where your food comes from. The price: $110 per services: Marketing and advertising consultations, person, which includes a $25 fundraiser donation. Tax, media placements over a 90-day period, commercial creative production services, technology services from tips & beverages not included.

Effectv and/or Comcast Business.

Reservations at wild-fish.com or call (831) 373-8523.

The work to recover from the devastating impacts of the pandemic is far from over. That’s why Comcast BE THE DIFFERENCE AWARD NOMINATIONS created the Comcast RISE Business Directory at caliDeadline March 23 fornia.comcast.com/comcastrise. This digital map for Submit your nomination for the Be the Difference Awards for the top volunteers in the county, individuals, laptops and mobile phones presents information about groups and businesses to www.scvolunteercener.org. local businesses who have benefited from Comcast RISE, making it easy to shop local and shop diverse.

Awards will be in person May 18.

Among them is Mountain Salvage in Felton.

To review the selection criteria and apply, see https://www.

LIBRARY TECH TALKS comcastrise.com/ 11 a.m.-Noon, Online Classes The Santa Cruz Public Libraries offer Tech Talks four UC MASTER GARDENERS CLASSES Thursdays in March to help you become tech-savvy.

5-6:30 p.m., Online Workshops Each class is free.

UC Master Gardeners of Monterey and Santa Cruz Registration is required. The Zoom link will be Counties is a program of the UC Agriculture and Natural emailed upon registration. If you need help with Resources, offering free and low-cost classes. registration call 831-427-7713.

Coming up: ••• March 22: Start Your Summer Vegetable Garden March 24: Two-Factor Authentication — Register at: — For novice gardeners who want to get started and https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/8935736.

March 31: Smartphone 101 for Apple users — Reg- experienced gardeners who would benefit from a ister at: https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/8935764. refresher.

UC Master Gardeners Delise Weir and Bridgit Matz will cover tips on preparing your garden beds for high RED CROSS TESTING DONATIONS productivity, what to plant when, what to plant from For a limited time, the American Red Cross has seed vs. seedlings, and how to keep plants thriving resumed testing all blood, platelet and plasma donathrough a hot summer. tions for COVID-19 antibodies. Plasma from routine The class will pay special attention to tomatoes, donations that have high levels of COVID-19 antibodies peppers and eggplants with time for questions. may be used as convalescent plasma to meet the ••• needs of COVID-19 patients with weak immune March 31: Managing Spring Garden Pests — Spring systems.

Donors should schedule an appointment. Use the Red is the time to set out tender seedlings and plant Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call sprouting seeds. Unfortunately, they can be decimated by slugs, snails and birds. Gophers breed in spring.

1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

They look for roots to nibble and can pull whole plants The Red Cross first tested donations for COVID-19 underground. antibodies earlier in the pandemic to provide Using the Integrated Pest Management approach, convalescent plasma for patients. When infection UC Master Gardener Delise Weir will discuss methods rates decreased and new treatment options became to prevent damage before it happens and minimize available, the Red Cross discontinued the program. damage after an attack.

With the surge of new variants, hospitals began to ••• seek out more treatments for vulnerable patients, and new clinical trial data shows convalescent plasma may To register, visit mbmg.ucanr.edu Classes are free of charge, but donations are accepted. benefit immunocompromised patients.

Antibody testing will indicate if the donor’s immune system has produced antibodies to this coronavirus fol- CHP RECRUITS EXPLORERS lowing vaccination or infection. Donations will be tested The California Highway Patrol Santa Cruz Office

Have a virtual or live event you want to promote?

Send your information to info@cyber-times.com by March 25 Behind Every Employer Santa Cruz County connects businesses needing assistance recruiting talent, identifying needed workforce training, consulting about challenges facing a busi-ness, finding information about the local market and locating needed financing.

Behind Every Employer is a project of Workforce Santa Cruz County, the County of Santa Cruz; the cities of Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Capitola and Scotts Valley; the Santa Cruz Small Business Development Center and El Pajaro Community Development Corp.

For information: https://behindeveryemployer.org/santa-cruz/

SPRING ITALIAN CLASSES. Learn the language of “la dolce vita” with native Italianspeaking instructors at the Dante Alighieri Society.

Whether you are new to the Italian language, totally BRAVER ANGELS WORKSHOPS fluent, or everything in between, you are welcome.

March 19, 26, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Polarization is a problem in America. Many of us avoid No matter what your goals are for learning Italian: Business, travel, pleasure, or because you love the or dread political conversations with friends or family members whose politics differ from our own. Or we use sound of this beautiful language.

Students practice their Italian through reading and language that makes it worse. discussion.

All classes will be online, once a week.

Are you interested in finding ways to help reduce The 10-week session begins the week of April 13, so hostility between Democrats and Republicans?

Braver Angels, a grassroots organization active in all register to secure a spot and get the early bird discount, 50 states aims to bridge the partisan divide via online which ends March 21.

Early bird price: $220 for members with coupon code, workshops. These no-cost gatherings teach skills for respectful conversations that clarify differences without $235 non members Regular price: $235 for members with coupon code, demeaning, and skills to disagree while searching for $250 non members common ground.

Workshops are slated for four Saturdays. Pick a date Registration closes April 5. To register go to: www.dantesantacruz.com/classes that works for you and register at https://tinyurl.com/ braver-angels-signup.

Participants can take a survey as part of a research study and MAH EXHIBITIONS Thurs. thru Sun., Noon-6 p.m., 705 Front St., Santa Cruz earn a $10 gift card upon completion.

Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History presents two exhibitions.

SENIOR OUTREACH Jan. 14–May 15: Atmosphere, an exhibition by Family Service Agency Senior Outreach offers free one-on-one counseling for people 55 and over via the artist and filmmaker Enid Baxter Ryce featuring paintings and soundscapes that explore the phephone, Skype or Zoom. Counselors are experienced.

In-person counseling has been suspended to prevent nomena of Monterey Bay’s fog and atmospheric rivers. Ryce’s work will be exhibited with collecCovid-19 spread.

Groups for men and women will be restarted as soon tions of archival photos, an interactive musical as possible, with a women’s group starting in February. sculpture, and fog collectors created in collaboration with historian Dr. William Cowan, musician Dates are not available due to the changing Covid Lanier Sammons, sculptor Natalie Jenkins, and situation.

Hopes are to restart peer training, for which there is scientist Dan Fernandez. a waiting list.

To express interest in participating, call Barbara Salata, 831- CULTIVATE GRANTS AVAILABLE Dreaming up a new artistic creation or leveling up your 459-9351 ext. 206, who will return your call in 24 hours. artistic career? Apply for a Cultivate Grant to fund your creative project or professional development.

SUPPORT FOR MOTHERS OF SURVIVORS Grants of up to $3,000 for artists, nonprofit organizaSurvivors Healing Center is offering online women’s tions, and other partnerships are available. Application support groups and mothers of survivors of childhood sexual abuse support group. The goals are to empower closes at 5 p.m. March 23. through a healing process and prevent sexual abuse of Grants awarded in July.

Information at https://www.artscouncilsc.org/for-grantseekers/ children and youth.

Questions? Email grantsprogram@artscouncilsc.org .

You are not alone. You are not to blame.

More information: (831) 423-7601 or www.survivorshealing PUBLIC LIBRARY CAREER WORKSHOPS center.org The Santa Cruz Public Libraries presents career development workshops for teens and adults through HELP FOR LOCAL EMPLOYERS April, thanks to grant funding.

A coalition of local governments and nonprofits in Second Wednesdays: Resume and interview skill Santa Cruz County has launched the Behind Every workshops at 10 a.m.

Employer initiative.

Third Wednesdays: Resume and interview skill This is a business resource network for local workshops in Spanish, 10 a.m. employers interested in workforce and other local Hours for English/Spanish bilingual career assistance business services. at the downtown Santa Cruz library began in January.

28 / March 15th 2022 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

COMMUNITY CALENDAR is looking for motivated applicants ages 15 to 21 interested in a career with law enforcement to join the newly formed Explorer Post.

To qualify you must have: • At least a 2.0 grade-point average, • Good citizenship • No drug or alcohol use • No felony convictions.

CHP Explorers are provided many opportunities to train, prepare, and experience the many duties of a CHP officer. Explorers participate in training sessions, ride-alongs with patrol officers, and community events, and attend Explorer competitions locally, regionally, and nationally.

The California Highway Patrol Explorer Program allows officers to work with some of the brightest and most professional young men and women.

For more information, call the CHP Santa Cruz Area Office at (831) 662-0511 or email Officer Alyssa Gutierrez at alyssa. gutierrez@chp.ca.gov.

beans to serve four for $60. Add a bottle of wine for $20.

Buy tickets at https://drivethrubbq.brownpapertickets.com

Saturday March 26

BOARDWALK FUN RUN 8 a.m., Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Lace up your shoes and get outside with a familyfriendly race through the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Register by March 25 at https://tinyurl.com/ boardwalk-fun-run-signup Two options: 1K (six-tenths of a mile) for age 12 and under and 5K for ages 4 and up (parents too). Cost is $20 for the short run, $40 for the longer run, plus sign-up fees.

Runners get a medal, Boardwalk Swag Bag, up to 3 hours of freeplay in the Casino Arcade and $15 off Ride Wristband on Race Day.

Friday March 25 Saturday March 26

ONGOING EVENTS Ongoing Through April 17 ART OF THE AFRICAN DIASPORA Thurs.–Sun., 12-6 p.m., Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, 705 Front St. Art of the African Diaspora, in partnership with the Richmond Art Center, supports artists of African descent in the Bay Area through representation, professional development, and building a creative community.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of this exhibition program, and features over 100 artists of African descent. Artwork is on view at the Richmond Art Center, as well as in open studios and satellite exhibitions at venues across the Bay Area.

This satellite exhibition is curated for the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History by Santa Cruz artist and organizer Abi Mustapha and MAH Historian in Residence Luna HighJohn-Bey. Featured artists include Abi Mustapha, Zoe Boston, Tiffany Conway, Carla Golder, Louise Schine, Janet Barnes, Eijah Pfotenhauer and Justice Renaissance. https://www.santacruzmah.org

ARIEL THEATRICAL PRESENTS WONDERLAND! Friday March 18 • Saturday March 19

7 p.m. (and 2 p.m. Sat.), Karen Wilson Children’s Theatre, 320 Main St., Salinas Based on Lewis Carroll’s Alice, Through the Looking Glass, this musical adventure will take audiences on a very curious journey filled with colorful surprises.

Curtain is at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday with a 2 p.m. Saturday matinee at the Karen Wilson Children’s Theatre, home of ARIEL Theatrical.

Join Alice as she traverses the magical chess board and meets Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee, The Red Queen, Humpty Dumpty, and many others. Alice learns that patience, persistence, and perspective are important tools when navigating the challenges of life.

Wonderland! is presented with generous support from the Sally Hughes Church Foundation.

Tickets are at www.arieltheatrical.org. Adults, $16, students/seniors/military, $13, children 3-12, $11, under age 3, free. Or call 831-775-0976.

••• Above: Humpty Dumpty (Gillespie Ruvalcaba) entertains Alice (Brynlee Tenney) in Wonderland! • Photo Credit: Kylee Sullivan

WATSONVILLE COMMUNITY BAND CONCERTS Fri., 7:30 p.m., Henry Mello Center, 250 E Beach St, Watsonville Sat., 2 p.m., Peace United Church of Santa Cruz, 900 High St., Santa Cruz The Watsonville Community Band will present its 74th Annual Spring Concert Series, first at the Henry Mello Center for the Performing Arts at Watsonville High School on Friday evening, and then Saturday afternoon at the Peace United Church of Santa Cruz.

The theme is “For Those Who Serve,” paying tribute to military, first responders, medical personnel, and all who strive to keep us safe. Conductor Brad Gronroos has selected a program featuring composers from John Williams, Claude T. Smith, Alfred Reed, Meredith Willson, and George M. Cohan to John Philip Sousa, and more.

There is no charge for admission, so bring the family!

Saturday March 26

DAVENPORT DAY 1-4 p.m., Davenport Jail Museum, 70 Center St, Davenport Bring your friends and family for the afternoon exploring the historic Davenport Jail, along with local art, wine and food on Saturday, March 26, from 1-4 p.m.

Davenport Day was inspired by the Out of the Ashes exhiFirst Tuesdays of the Month April 3 features Pana, Three Waves Coffee & Aunt bition on view at the Museum of Art & History in Santa Cruz LaLi’s, Mattia Pizza and Taquizas Gabriel — along with (which owns the Davenport jail) and is a way to celebrate UCSC ARBORETUM: FIRST TUESDAYS FREE First and Third Mondays Each Month the resilience and artistry of this tight-knit community.

9 a.m. – 5 p.m., UC Santa Cruz Arboretum, 1156 High St, SC 40 vendors & live music with Cement Ship.

All local and state health guidelines will be followed.

SENIOR LIFE ONLINE Activities will take place between the Slow Coast Wine Community Day at the UCSC Arboretum means free Please wear your mask, maintain social distance while Bar and the Roadhouse Inn on Hwy. 1.

4 p.m., Online Meeting admission on the first Tuesday of every month 9 a.m-5 you shop and stay home if you don’t feel well. Hand What started out as a fundraiser to revitalize the Join a local group of senior citizens for “Senior Life p.m. sanitizing stations will be available. jail property has grown into a community event that Online,” a free online (Zoom) program featuring Guests are invited to explore the biodiversity of the a presentation by a local expert. View the full gardens, enjoy bird watching or relax on a bench in the For more info, go to the event page: https://www.facebook. includes Davenport businesses and features local com/scmmakersmarket/ artists impacted by the 2020 CZU fire. schedule at scottsvalleyseniorlife.org/currentshade. activities/. arboretum.ucsc.edu To participate, you need an Internet connection Sunday March 27 DATED EVENTS Third Thursday Each Month and a computer, tablet or smart phone. A 1-time HIGH TIME FOR TEA AND FASHION! Saturday March 19 preregistration is required at https://tinyurl.com/ PET LOSS AND GRIEF SUPPORT VIA ZOOM 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Seascape Golf Course, 610 Clubhouse SVSLA-6. Questions? Call George at (831) 3346 to 7:30 p.m., virtual meeting CALIFORNIA WILDLIFE DAY Dr, Aptos 7763.

BirchBark Foundation’s Pet Loss and Grief Support 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Online Seminars Dust off your hats and sun dresses, bring your friends Senior Life Online is sponsored by Scotts Valley Senior Zoom group offers a free support group, moderated There will be a hybrid event to celebrate the native flora and enjoy a real high tea party Life Association (SVSLA), a 501(c)(3) non-profit whose by a licensed grief counseling therapist, on the third and fauna found throughout California on Zoom. buffet Shop & sip at the hottest mission is to promote healthy living for senior citizens.

Thursday of each month.

Panels will discuss wildfire, wildlife, and water! trunk show of the year!

Register at https://www.birchbarkfoundation.org/griefInformation is at http://scottsvalleyseniorlife.org.

Log in to hear regional experts discuss these timely Enjoy the fashion show featuring support or call 831-471-7255. environmental topics. all the latest spring trends from Tuesdays After, head on over to Garland Ranch Regional Park in local stores at Seascape Golf First Sunday Every Month SENIOR CENTER BINGO Carmel for guided nature walks from 1-3 p.m.

Course.

1-3 p.m., Mid-County Senior Center, 829 Bay Ave., Capitola WESTSIDE MARKETPLACE Registration for walks will be on https://cawildlifeday.net Local vendors, local fashions.

The Mid-County Senior Center is hosting bingo games. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Old Wrigley Building Parking Lot, 2801 Raffle proceeds to benefit Jacob’s The event includes coffee and tea; lunch is available for Mission Street, Santa Cruz ROTARY TRI-TIP DRIVE-THRU BBQ Heart Children’s Cancer Support Come by on Sundays and shop at over 40 unique & purchase.

Services. Reservations required.

5-6 p.m., Scotts Valley Community Center, 360 Kings Village Road The cost is $10 to get started, players must be over wonderful artists, makers & vintage sellers — there’s The Scotts Valley Rotary invites you to a drive-through Buy your tickets by calling 831-688-1467 or online at something for everyone at the Westside Marketplace! Tri-Tip Roast BBQ at the Scotts Valley Community Center. aptoschamber.com.

18 and proof of vaccination is required. Proceeds Rain dates are scheduled for the following Sundays. The meal includes a 40 oz. roast, a loaf of garlic benefit the center and local seniors.

“Calendar” page 31 The Market is free to attend and is 100% local!

For information, call 831-476-4711. sourdough bread, garden salad and ranch-style

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2022 / 29

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Broadband Grant, Public Works & Planning, and Lobbying

By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District

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he Board of Supervisors recently approved numerous funding, policy and procedural actions to improve broadband access, the way the public interacts with the planning and public works process and even how County employees can engage in post-employment lobbying. Here are three recent actions.

Broadband Expansion ast year, I brought an item to the Board of Supervisors to use $500,000 of our recovery funding toward broadband expansion. The pandemic highlighted the critical need for access to affordable, high-speed internet. For students participating in remote learning, seniors accessing tele-health programs and workers attempting to work remotely, high-speed internet is an essential resource. Yet, many households in our community, and throughout the state, either have limited bandwidth to meet their needs or are priced out of options.

The unincorporated area of Santa Cruz County contains numerous small areas that have no internet or very slow internet service. The Board sought proposals from

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local and national providers with the intention of finding one of more partners to help provide broadband internet service in the unserved/underserved areas. Underserved areas are defined where at least 80 percent of the population has access to internet speeds under 100 Mbps download / 20 Mbps upload.

Under the award guidelines, the County will provide matching grant funding to a total investment of $500,000.

Submissions were evaluated under the criteria of network reliability, cost effectiveness, capability to meet project goals and schedule, service to the largest number of constituents, service speed, experience, funding capabilities and experience in partnering with local governments as well as ability to serve lower-income households.

Cruzio Internet was awarded the grant for this first phase of broadband expansion.

Implementation of the proposed design will take about 11 months to complete and will involve installing 10 “points of presence.”

This project will serve 4,000 homes across all five supervisorial districts through the Equal Access Santa Cruz program, and provide needed internet resources to affordable housing projects and school neighborhoods.

As part of the grant requirements, Cruzio will provide additional matching funds up to 150 percent of the $500,000 County grant.

Selected sites should be announced soon.

Additional funding for broadband expansion will be available through state and federal grants in the coming months. The County is developing a framework

SPECIALTY SCREEN & GLASS SHOP Contact us for a free on-site consultation.

831-476-2023 Skylightplace.com

30 / March 15th 2022 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Local Local Local

for the allocation of future broadband funding with a focus on expanding service to underserved and unserved areas across the County.

Public Works & Planning n an effort to improve customer service and streamline project management, the Board of Supervisors directed that departments of Public Works and Planning integrate into a single department.

A primary result will be the opening of a “unified permitting center,” focused on customer service and more efficient land use permitting. Gains are expected in both departments in long-range planning, environmental protection, infrastructure improvements, and collaboration with regional planning and transportation efforts.

If you’ve ever needed a building permit, then you are aware that the process often requires review from multiple departments. Most planning documents consider transportation, sanitation, and other infrastructure provided by Public Works. Public Works projects rely on Planning sign-off for consistency with environmental and land use policies. By integrating the two departments, the community can expect a faster and more coordinated response to their permit and customer service needs.

The overarching goal of the Unified Permit Center is to provide customercentered service to support applicants throughout the permitting With one location for applicants and their design teams to go to for local requirements, this ensures applicants have clear expectations for the review process. With cross-trained staff from various agencies and divisions co-located with building permit technicians, this integration will streamline the overall permit process.

Ex-Employees Lobbying any federal, state, and local government agencies have adopted formal policies regulating lobbying by former officials, either elected or appointed, and former employees.

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Often referred to as “revolving door” policies, these ordinances recognize that recently departed officials and staff possess unique knowledge and relationships that are unavailable to the public, which can then be used to exert improper influence over decisions affecting the public’s interests. I brought forward an item (that was approved) that would restrict County employees, for one year, from being paid to communicate/lobby with their former employer in an attempt to influence certain actions or proceedings.

The focus of this ordinance is simply to ensure that when public employees have a role in creating a regulatory structure, are privy to confidential information, relationships or any other access points the greater public doesn’t have, that the public be assured those access points aren’t being used for personal gain and the public’s interest is always paramount.

The ordinance does not restrict the type of employment a County employee may secure after leaving County employment, nor does it restrict someone from working for a private company after doing business with -company as a County employee. Furthermore, this ordinance does not restrict former County officials or employees from lobbying the County if they are not being compensated to perform the lobbying activities or in an expert capacity requested by the County. It simply creates a one-year cooling-off period that prevents any revolving-door concerns and improves trust with the community.

Adoption of the ordinance put Santa Cruz County in line with many other public agencies across the state and country with similar restrictions in place and increases transparency and trust with the community. n ••• As always, I appreciate any feedback you may have on this (or any other County issue).

I’m maintaining regular updates on social media at www.facebook.com/supervisorfriend and you can always call me at 454-2200.

SCCAS Featured Pet

“Calendar” from page 29

Tuesday March 29 Thursday April 14 INPUT SOUGHT FOR APTOS JR. HIGH DEDICATION 5:30 p.m., AJHS Multipurpose Room, 1001 Huntington Dr, Aptos The Aptos Jr. High community is invited to provide input on the criteria to be used in nominating someone for the dedication of the newly renovated multi-purpose room.

Both meetings will take place in the school’s multipurpose room.

Principal Michael Mansfield said nominations will be made, and the community will be able to vote on the nominations.

Friday April 1

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Andy Griffith’s Black Lab!

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pie is a 2-year-old black lab mix who is looking for his furever home. Opie’s known for being quite affectionate, laid back, and easy to handle. He loves to get pet’s and cuddles from people. He also loves going for car rides and strolls around the neighborhood.

Opie has lived with teenagers, men, women, and seniors and did great with all of them. Family members should all meet Opie at the shelter prior to adoption.

He has a history with cats and other dogs, any other dogs in the home should meet at the shelter prior to going home and cats should be introduced slowly. He has a history with small animals and livestock but slow introduction and management with them is recommended.

If you’re looking for your new best friend please visit Opie at 1001 Rodriguez St, Santa Cruz between 10 and 6 every day.

Adoptions are first come, first served! Please view available animals on our website and then visit the Shelter to turn in your application. All adoptions require proof of home ownership or landlord approval. Please have this information prepared. If an animal is in Foster Care, please bring in your adoption application and schedule an appointment to meet the animal. Call 831-454-7200 x0 during business hours or visit www.scanimalshelter.org for more information! n ••• Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s full-service, open-admission shelter: Santa Cruz Location (Public Entrance): 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 Hours: Daily 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Watsonville Location: CURRENTLY CLOSED 580 Airport Blvd, Watsonville, CA 95076 SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182 • After Hours: jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us

FUTURE OF WATSONVILLE HOSPITAL Noon, Online Discussion Join the Aptos Chamber for a virtual lunch meeting via Zoom with State Sen. John Laird, County Administrative Officer Carlos Palacios, and Pajaro Valley Healthcare District CEO Mimi Hall.

They will cover the successes and challenges for the Pajaro Valley Healthcare District and its potential effect on county healthcare as a whole. There will be time for questions and community updates.

General admission is $15 per person and $10 for chamber members. Reservations are required. Call the Aptos Chamber at (831) 688-1467 with your credit card and email address or send a check and email address to 7605 Old Dominion Court, Aptos CA 95003, or online at aptoschamber.com. A Zoom link will be provided after your reservation.

The presentation will be recorded so if this time does not work for you, you can get a link to listen later.

Saturday April 2 PERSPECTIVES: CAPITOLA IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER RECEPTION Noon-2 p.m., Capitola Historical Museum, 410 Capitola Ave. “Perspectives: Capitola in the Eye of the Beholder” exhibit is open at the Capitola Historical Museum. The museum is open every Friday through Sunday noon – 4 p.m. Entry is free and family-friendly.

The reception will feature the unveiling of a new painting by Aptos muralist Ann Thiermann. The painting depicts Indigenous people fishing and foraging at what we know today as Capitola Beach and Lagoon.

Ms. Thiermann will speak about her research and method of creating the piece, which was commissioned by the City of Capitola. Her painting will be part of the 2022 exhibition.

Saturday April 2 Sunday April 3 PRESCRIBED FIRELIGHTING TRAINING Learn the fundamentals of prescribed firelighting and wildland firefighting during this hands-on, two-day field training April 2-3 in the Santa Lucia Conservancy.

The Oscars © Statepoint Media

This training will give you the building blocks to be a safe and effective participant in local Rx burns. By the end of the training, you will be prepared to participate in local cooperative burns hosted by the Central Coast Prescribed Burn Association ( http://calpba.org/) and others.

Skills acquired: fireline construction, fireline communications, Rx fire ignitions, operation of a firefighting pump, installation of a hose-lay, organization of a Rx burn and more.

This workshop is a prerequisite for participation in future CCPBA burns and can certify you as a Basic Wildland Firefighter 2 with pre-completion of online coursework plus an “arduous pack-test” walking 3 miles with a 45 lb. pack in under 45 minutes on flat ground.

Cost is $20. Scholarships available upon request, no one turned away. Register at: https://surveys.ucanr.edu/survey. cfm?surveynumber=36819 For questions, email Jared Childress at childress.ember@gmail.com

Tuesday April 5

SALLY BAHO TO SPEAK 1 p.m., Online Meeting Retired Teachers Association Division 7 will meet on Zoom to hear. Sally M. Baho speak on “My Work at the Naval Postgraduate School.”

A Syrian-Californian writer and bon vivant, she works fulltime at the Naval Postgraduate School as a research associate and associate editor of the journal, Combatting Terrorism Exchange. In her free time she loves to be outdoors, read, travel, and enjoy life on the Monterey Bay. She is working on a novel.

See her website www.sallybaho.com Contact Mary Dixon at mary@baymoon.com for the Zoom link.

Wednesday May 4 Thursday May 5

NEST FLIGHT Virtual Conference NEST Flight will be a 2-day virtual experience, in time for graduation season. This annual conference is geared toward young professionals, recent grads and current students in high school or college. If you are 17 to 24 and exploring your options for the future, this conference is for you.

Hosted by Digital NEST and founder Jacob Martinez, this event features 20 inspiring speakers, hands-on workshops, powerful panel discussions and one of a kind networking opportunities — crafted to help students propel their careers, no matter where you are in your job exploration.

Netflix co-founder and CEO Reed Hastings is keynote speaker. Emcee is Amber Gonzalez-Vargas, senior program manager at Latino Community Foundation, which has invested $17 million in 150 grassroots Latino-led nonprofits.

Registration: $20. See https://www.nestflight.org/

Friday May 20 REGIONAL ECONOMIC OUTLOOK 9 a.m.-11 a.m., Online Seminar MBEP’s 8th Annual Regional Economic Outlook will feature Christopher Thornberg, Founding Partner of Beacon Economics, LLC. Widely considered to be one of the nation’s leading economists, Dr. Thornberg is an expert in revenue forecasting, regional economics, economic policy, and labor and real estate markets.

Beacon Economics is a leading independent research and consulting firm dedicated to delivering accurate, insightful, and objectively-based economic analysis to public and private sector clients in California and across the United States.

Tickets are $29. Register at https://tinyurl.com/MBEP-REO2022-register n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / March 15th 2022 / 31

New Listing INDESCRIBABLE OCEAN VIEWS 685 SKYWARD DRIVE

5 bed 4.5 baths 5,079 sqft 2.9 acres $3,850,000

Welcome to 685 Skyward, where breathtaking views and alluring architecture meet custom interior features, spectacular gardens and stunning sunsets. Floor plan provides room for everyone with formal entry, separate living room, dining room and open concept kitchenfamily room design. Main living space offers the perfect backdrop to entertain with expansive views of the blue Pacific, while the fantastic indoor - outdoor flow creates California living at its finest. Four spacious bedrooms, including primary suite with spa inspired bath and walkin closet. Fifth bedroom presents as its own separate living space with private deck, fireplace, walk-in closet, steam shower and more. Use this large, private space as an in-law suite, office, art studio, the possibilities are endless. With unobstructed ocean views from almost every room, a premier location and a passive monthly income of over $5k/month, this exquisite home brings the best of Aptos to you.

AMBER MELENUDO REALTOR® 831.566.2263 AmberMelenudo.com ambermelenudo@gmail.com DRE 01921098