Aptos Times: November 15, 2024

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November 15, 2024 • Vol 33 No. 22

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Greystar Team to Build Cabrillo Student Housing

A team led by Greystar, a 31-year-old global rental housing company with nearly 1 million multifamily units and student beds (including four in Santa Cruz) will build the first student housing at Cabrillo College.

Full Story page 7

Watsonville Hospital Property Now Locally Owned Full Story page 8

Aptos Girls Tennis: Perfect!

UCSC Medical School?

By Jondi Gumz The closest public medical school is at UC San Francisco, 90 minutes away; then UC Davis, more than two hours away.

Previous chancellors focused on opening an engineering school, and building up the game design program and renovating the aging Kresge College dorms. ... continues on page 4

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One challenge hospitals in the tri-county area share: Not enough primary care doctors.

On Nov. 8, UC Santa Cruz Chancellor Cynthia Larive floated a solution at the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership State of the Region conference: She’s thinking about a medical school to train doctors on the Central Coast.

Aptos High Girls Tennis had an amazing season, securing the 2024 SCCAL League Title with a perfect 10-0 League record!

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Full Story page 15

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Volume 33 No. 22

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Table of Contents

5

Cover UCSC Medical School?, By Jondi Gumz

4 5 7 8 10 11 16 18 19 20 21 22 25 27 30

Community News $49 Million Settlement in Drug Price-Fixing Case Add Ease to Year-End Giving, By Susan True & Hilary Bryant Greystar Team to Build Cabrillo Student Housing, By Jondi Gumz Watsonville Hospital Property Now Locally Owned, By Jondi Gumz Rural Highways Safety: What Can Be Done?, By Jondi Gumz County Uses Cameras to Catch Dumpers Mesmerized by Monarchs • Campaign for Farmworker Opportunity Center Does Your Home Have Defensible Space?

Cabrillo College Receives $150,000 for Veterans Mental Health • Freedom Lake Restoration to Begin County Recommends $3.44 Million for 28 Programs, By Jondi Gumz Live Oak Library Annex Open House New School Lauded by Foundation • Youth Scholarships: Can You Help?,

By Tricia Wiltshire Graham Hill Road: 161 Homes Proposed, By Jondi Gumz Boardwalk Settles Lawsuit With Employees: $5.9 Million for Five Years of Underpayments Santa Cruz Gives: 63 Local Nonprofits

Election 2024 12 Central Fire’s Measure R Short of 2/3rds • PVUSD: Carol Turley, Jessica Carrasco, Gabriel Medina Lead, By Jondi Gumz • Pajaro Valley School Bond Clears 55% • Kim De Serpa Leads by 600 Votes, By Jondi Gumz • Incumbent Democrats Win State Races, By Jondi Gumz Local Sports 15 Aptos Girls Tennis: Perfect!, By Tammi Brown Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – Mantram of Unification & the Scorpio Tests, By Risa D’Angeles Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29

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Featured Columnists 13 Post-Election Teachable Moments, By Dr. Alison Hanks-Sloan, aka Dr. AHS, Aptos High Principal 23 Survival Guide: Trekking through Airports, By Christopher Elliott 24 A Meeting of Soulmates, By Barry and Joyce Vissell 30 More Reasons to Shop at Local Businesses This Holiday Season,

By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 31 – Snacks For Your Pleasure

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CALIFORNIA NEWS

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$49 Million Settlement in Drug Price-Fixing Case O n Oct. 31, California Attorney General Rob Bonta, with a coalition of 50 states and territories, announced cooperation agreements and settlements with Heritage Pharmaceuticals and, in the near future, Apotex totaling $49.1 million to resolve allegations that the companies engaged in conspiracies to artificially inflate and manipulate prices, reduce competition, and unreasonably restrain trade on numerous generic prescription drugs.

Heritage, headquartered in Eatontown, N.J., is a maker of generic drug that agreed

“Price-Fixing” page 6

COVER STORY Larive’s to-do list includes building apartments on campus for students with families and opening a new child care center, building student dorms on Heller Drive and building apartments on Delaware Avenue.

Larive sees the need for primary care doctors.

As Allen Radner, president and CEO of

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to pay a $7 million penalty in 2019 to defer prosecution for price-fixing for glyburide, a prescription medication to lower blood sugar for people with type 2 diabetes.

Apotex is the largest producer of generic drugs in Canada.

In 2021, In 2021, Apotex in Florida agreed to pay a $49 million federal penalty and admitted conspiring to increase the price of pravastatin, a prescription drug used to treat high cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

In 2020, Apotex paid a $24.1 million federal criminal penalty and admitted to conspiring to increase the price on pravastatin.

Connecticut led a coalition of nearly all states and territories in filing the three antitrust complaints, starting with the first in 2014.

As part of the latest settlement agreements, both companies agreed to cooperate in the ongoing multistate litigations against 30 corporate defendants and 25 individual executives.

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Salinas Valley Health, told the 300 conference attendees at CSU Monterey Bay, “This is a massive national problem -- 50% physicians are over the age of 60. Last year, we needed 45 new primary care providers. We’re nowhere near those numbers.”

What UCSC has done is offer a global and community health major, in its third year, and this year, launch a post-baccalaureate program at the MBEST center in Marina and raise $100,000 for 12 graduates wanting to pursue medical and dental careers.

Larive is excited about the possibility of a medical school and has heard support but cautioned she could not put a timeline on it.

One example to follow is UC Merced, which was established in 2005 and will open its medical school in 2027.

to address the shortage of primary care doctors.

Among those retiring: Dr Stephen Packer, who has been CEO of Montage Health in Monterey for 25 years.

His solutions: Investing in a workforce partnership with CSU Monterey Bay for nurses, home-buying assistance and child care.

AI Use

“We are piloting AI (artificial intelligence) tools to do all of the charting,” Packer said.

Another strategy: Remote patient monitoring for high blood pressure, heart failure and diabetes.

Rosa Vivian Fernandez, president and CEO of San Benito Health Foundation, partnered Location? with CSU Monterey Bay Where could a to bring bilingual doctors medical school be located? licensed in Mexico to see At the Enterprise Techpatients at the federally nology Centre (formerly qualified health center.

Borland) in Scotts Valley, That program, under where UCSC signed a AB 1045, also applies to 20-year lease in 2016? dentists.

Or in Monterey Asked about AI, County, where the need for Mickiewicz demurred, Cynthia Larive primary care is so great? saying it was “very early” One way to expedite such an initiative, but Radner cited a pilot project to reduce Larive told Aptos Times, would be with a documenting by nurses, which he hopes will partnership – for example, medical students mean more “face time” with patients. taking classes at UCSF Medical School then Packer said AI is being used to identify coming to Santa Cruz County and Monterey patients overdue for screening such as Pap County for clinical rotations. smear.

That’s partnership model is already in Fernandez said, “We are updating to use at Dominican Hospital, which teamed incorporate AI in the future.” with Morehouse Medical School to place 8 She added, “The human interaction is of their graduates in family medicine clinical not going to be obliterated.” n rotations that include Salud para La Gente Cover Photo: Alece Birnbach creates a and Santa Cruz Community Health. visual recording of the State of the Region That’s a 3-year program with Domini- conference presented by Monterey Bay Ecocan’s parent, CommonSpirit, designed nomic Partnership.

Add Ease to Year-End Giving

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COMMUNITY NEWS

By Susan True & Hilary Bryant

s the year draws to a close, you may feel like we do, grateful to be part of this community and wanting to give back. Here at Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, we can help make your yearend giving joyful and easy.

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As you plan your giving and are age 70 ½ or older and have an IRA, consider using your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) for charitable giving. These charitable IRA “rollovers” are tax-free and can benefit eligible charities.

You can use your RMD to contribute to any of our community funds or we can help you set up a new fund that benefits a cause you care about.

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Regardless of the gift size, we’re able to recommend a giving strategy and with our deep knowledge and love of Santa Cruz County, help you give with confidence– making a difference today and for many years to come. n Susan True is the CEO of Community Foundation Santa Cruz County and Hilary Bryant is director of donor services. See https://cfscc.org/ or call 831-662-2000.

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“Price-Fixing” from page 4 Both companies also agreed to internal reforms to ensure fair competition and compliance with antitrust laws, according to Bonta.

A motion for preliminary approval of the $10 million settlement with Heritage is on file in the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut in Hartford.

A settlement with Apotex for $39.1 million is contingent upon obtaining signatures from all necessary states and territories and is to be finalized and filed for approval in the U.S. District Court soon.

“When drug prices are inflated, it often forces patients to make impossible choices between essential medications and basic necessities, while undermining our healthcare system, which is meant to work for individuals, not corporations,” said Bonta. “I am proud to stand with 50 states and territories to hold Heritage and Apotex accountable for their unconscionable action of raising drug prices in order to line their own pockets.”

The three cases against these companies stem from a series of investigations built on evidence from several cooperating witnesses at the core of the different conspiracies alleged in each case, a database of over 20 million documents, and a separate database containing millions of call detail records and contact information for over 600 sales and pricing individuals in the generics industry.

Each complaint addresses a different set of drugs and defendants and shows how an interconnected web of industry executives meant to be competitors met up for industry dinners, “girls’ nights out,” lunches, cocktail parties, golf outings, and communicated through frequent telephone calls, emails, and text messages, sowing the seeds for their illegal agreements.

Company employees used terms like “fair share,” “playing nice in the sandbox,” and “responsible competitor” to describe how they unlawfully discouraged competition, raised prices, and enforced an ingrained culture of collusion.

Among the records obtained by the coalition is a two-volume notebook

containing the contemporaneous notes of one of the coalition’s cooperators that memorialized his discussions during phone calls with competitors and internal company meetings over a period of several years.

The first complaint included Heritage and 17 other corporate defendants, two individual defendants, and 15 generic drug manufacturers.

Jeffrey Glazer, the former CEO of Heritage Pharmaceuticals, and Jason Malek, the former president, have since entered into settlement agreements and are cooperating.

The second complaint was filed Teva Pharmaceuticals, a drugmaker with $8.99 billion revenue in 2021 and $15.8 billion in 2023, and 19 of the nation’s largest generic drug manufacturers. The complaint names 16 individual senior executive defendants.

The third complaint, which will be tried first, focuses on 80 primarily topical generic drugs that account for billions of dollars of sales in the United States and names 26 corporate defendants and 10 individual defendants.

Six additional pharmaceutical executives have entered into settlement agreements with the coalition and have been cooperating to support the coalition’s claims in all three cases, according to Bonta.

Bonta joined the attorneys general of Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, U.S. Virgin Islands, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Puerto Rico. n ••• If you purchased a qualifying generic prescription drug between 2010 and 2018, you may be eligible for compensation. To determine your eligibility, call 1-866-290-0182 (Toll-Free), email info@AGGenericDrugs.com, or visit www.

AGGenericDrugs.com.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Greystar Team to Build Cabrillo Student Housing

A

By Jondi Gumz

team led by Greystar, a 31-year-old global rental housing company with nearly 1 million multifamily units and student beds (including four in Santa Cruz) will build the first student housing at Cabrillo College.

On Nov. 1, Cabrillo’s board of trustees voted 5-0 to award the project to Greystar, and the student trustee concurred.

The 624-bed complex is a joint project with UC Santa Cruz, 60% of beds for Cabrillo students and 40% of beds for UCSC students, with a childcare facility for residents.

The multi-story buildings, estimated to cost $124 million to build, will be located in a soccer field off Cabrillo College Drive.

Cabrillo College partnered with Jones Lang Lasalle, a global real estate services company, to prepare a request for proposals for a developer to design, build, finance, operate and maintain the student housing.

The board also approved Collegiate Housing Foundation to work with the college as part of a public-private partnership to oversee the construction and operate the housing site.

Greystar was founded in 1993 by Bob

Proposed Early Design Rendering – Aerial (Work in Progress) • Developed by Greystar

Faith, who was named Multifamily Executive of the Year in 2017 by Commercial Property Executive & Multi-Housing News and No. 6 in the 2024 Power 100 by the Commercial Observer.

Greystar remains privately owned and is the largest operator of apartments in the U.S. In Santa Cruz, it owns Cypress Point, Five55, The Hilltop, and the Landing in

Capitola Apartments, and more in Monterey, Marina and Seaside.

The Greystar team includes WRNS Studio (architect), Devcon Construction (general contractor), and Raymond James (underwriter).

The Greystar timeline proposes to break ground in fall 2025, with construction being completed in fall 2027, the bestcase scenario for Cabrillo and UCSC students to move in at the start of fall semester and quarter, respectively.

“I’m proud of the work that was done, and I am very excited to see the renderings and move to the next phase of the project,” said Dr. Matt Wetstein, Cabrillo College president and superintendent. “This student housing project will greatly benefit our students, 20% of whom are housing insecure, and will help alleviate the housing crisis in our local community.”

Preliminary renderings show five-story buildings next to a lighted promenade, with an outdoor gathering space and a rooftop garden. The final design is to be completed in the next eight months.

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“Cabrillo Housing” page 11

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COMMUNITY NEWS

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By Jondi Gumz

ive years after Watsonville Community Hospital was sold for $40 million to publicly traded Medical Properties Trust, which is owned by investors such as Black Rock and State Street Corp, the 27-acre hospital property is back in local hands.

The Pajaro Valley Health Care District Corporation, a new entity created May 11, 2022 to rescue the hospital from bankruptcy, purchased the buildings and grounds for $40 million.

Notice how this real estate did not escalate in value.

The Pajaro Valley Health Care District announced the transaction on Nov. 1.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who supported Measure N, and especially to the voters of the health care district for believing in their local hospital,” said Stephen Gray, CEO of the Pajaro Valley Health Care District and Watsonville Community Hospital. “The completion of this property transaction is the final milestone in our journey back to being truly community owned.”

The 106-bed hospital, with maternity care, cardiac care, robotic surgery, rehab services, and an emergency department, has 650 employees and more than 300 physicians.

This monumental acquisition was made possible by voters from Aptos to Watsonville and Pajaro living in the Pajaro Valley Health Care District, who passed Measure N, $116 million in bonds, with a 68% yes in March.

Property owners will pay $24 per $100,000 assessed value per year to repay those bonds.

This purchase of property was the first use of funds, with the reminder to go into upgrades, renovations and expansion.

As the owner, the hospital will be able to save $3 million annually in lease and insurance payments, which is to be reinvested back into serving the community and improving healthcare services.

“This day means so much to so many people who have rolled up their sleeves to do what was needed to ensure access to healthcare services for the Pajaro Valley,” Gray said.

He added, “Our hospital has provided quality healthcare since 1895, and thanks to the collaborative efforts of our community, we are looking ahead to 2025, when we will launch our cardiac catheterization lab and continue to look for ways to improve the health of the people we serve.”

Under ownership by for-profit company Halsen Healthcare, Watsonville Community Hospital struggled financially. Three of the former top Halsen executives were accused in a lawsuit of siphoning $3.9 million for their personal use. That case was reassigned to a new judge in August with a conference date later this month.

Community members raised $65 million – including $25 million from the state –thanks to lobbying by state Sen. John Laird-- to buy the hospital operations and the cost of emerging from bankruptcy such as legal fees.

The 300 attendees at the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership’s State of the Region conference heard about efforts to reopen Madera Community Hospital, also 106 beds, serving an area where one-fifth live in poverty and many lack health insurance, which means relying on federal Medicare reimbursement and state MediCal reimbursement, neither covering expenses.

With the hospital closure, patients with emergencies must drive to Clovis 33 miles away or Merced 38 miles away.

Assemblywoman Anna Caballero (D-Salinas) said she pushed to create a state program to help financially distressed hospitals.

Under new management, the Madera hospital has seen upgrades and hiring fairs, and the CEO hopes to reopen by the end of the year. n

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Rural Highways Safety: What Can Be Done?

By Jondi Gumz

W

hat can be done to reduce fatal crashes (and severe injury crashes) on our highways?

Specifically, Highway 1 north of Santa Cruz, Highway 9, Highway 236, and Highway 35 and Highways 129 and 152 outside the Watsonville city limits.

All of these are not only highways but also main streets and connector for communities.

This does not include local streets such as Trout Gulch Road in Aptos near Trout Gulch Crossing, where local residents have called for safety measures because of cars hitting people on foot.

Overall crashes on these six highways dropped during the pandemic but have risen to near the 2017 peak. Since 2014, fatal and severe injury crashes have hovered between 20 and 30.

The Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission has a Caltrans planning grant to identify locations of crashes and patterns of occurrence to generate and prioritize measures to create a roadmap to Vision Zero – Zero highway crashes.

The intent is to achieve zero traffic deaths

and serious injuries by 2050 with projects and strategies implemented through close partnerships with Caltrans.

What Works Elsewhere

New York City, the first U.S. city to adopt Vision Zero in 2014, saw a 29% decrease in pedestrian deaths over a decade, as pedestrian deaths increased 67.4% nationally.

New York City reprogrammed traffic signals to give pedestrians a few more seconds to cross, lowered the speed limit to 25 mph and installed automated speed cameras in school zones.

Hoboken, New Jersey, and Alexandria, Virginia, achieved zero traffic fatalities.

Hoboken removed parking spaces near corners to improve sight lines for motorists.

Alexandria adopted speed cameras for enforcement and created slow zones near schools and senior centers, painting the speed limit on the road for greater visibility. The city crowdsourced with the pubic to identify the most dangerous locations.

Survey Closes Dec. 6

The Santa Cruz County RTC is asking people to identify problem intersections,

places you have witnessed crashes or near misses, or where you have safety concerns for those traveling using any mode of transportation. The survey closes Dec. 6.

About 20% of crashes result in a fatality or severe injuries.

When there is a fatality or serious injury, 11% of the time involves a person on a bicycle, 9% involves a person on foot.

A report prepared by planner Brianna Goodman presented data for consideration at a virtual public hearings on Oct. 23 and 24.

Comparing data from 2014 to 2013, Highway 9 had 90 crashes, with 90% involving cars.

Highways 1, 129, and 152 all have around 35 crashes.

On Highway 236, a person on foot was involved in 68% of crashes and 11% a person on a bicycle.

Severe and fatal crashes increase on the weekend when more people are on the highways.

The most dangerous time for severe and fatal, crashes is 3-7 p.m. and from 7 p.m. overnight.

“Highways Safety” page 14

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COMMUNITY NEWS

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County Uses Cameras to Catch Dumpers T he County of Santa Cruz announces surveillance cameras are being installed at key locations in unincorporated areas to help prevent illegal dumping.

This is part of the county’s strategy to protect the environment and make Santa Cruz County the cleanest in California.

Illegal dumping costs local taxpayers nearly half a million dollars annually in cleanup costs, according to county Public Works spokeswoman Tiffany Martinez.

Everyone in the County pays for the cost of cleanups. For every dollar spent to clean up an illegal dumpsite, that’s one less dollar available for other programs.

If a dumpsite is not cleaned up immediately, more people will add their garbage to the pile. Illegal dumpsites attract vermin, kill vegetation and destroy habitat, and contribute to water pollution.

Fines and penalties for illegal dumping start at $100 for first time violations. The fine increases to $200 for second offenses and $500 for the third violation within one year.

Surveillance cameras have been installed

“Cabrillo Housing” from page 7 “We are thrilled to see this student housing project advancing to the next phase,” said UC Santa Cruz Chancellor Cynthia Larive. “It will provide essential, affordable housing for our students and Cabrillo students. The project will also strengthen the transfer pathway between our institutions, giving students the opportunity to start at Cabrillo, then finish with a bachelor’s degree from UC Santa Cruz, all while living in the same housing. That is both unique and extremely beneficial.”

Addendums to Cabrillo’s 1999 Environmental Impact Report, presented to trustees on Nov. 4, found no substantial impacts and no mitigation actions needed.

The joint student housing project, a first for California’s public universities, landed a $111 million state grant and attracted big names in real estate.

Greystar competed against Servitas, a nationwide student housing development and management company with 15 years’ experience, Balfour Beatty Campus Solutions, recently chosen for a $240 million student housing complex at William and Mary

at three locations. Violators caught on camera face fines along with restitution costs.

Cameras are operational, and enforcement efforts are underway. Additional camera locations are under consideration, according to Martinez.

Residents are encouraged to use the GreenWaste Bulky Item Collection Program, Overages Program, or recyclables collection program which offers three free pickups per year for GreenWaste customers living in unincorporated Santa Cruz County.

The Bulky Item Collection Program allows for the proper disposal of large items such as furniture and appliances. n ••• To schedule a pickup, call GreenWaste at: bit. ly/greenwastescc or by phone at (831) 426-2711.

Learn more at: bit.ly/stop-illegal-dumping

College, and The Michaels Organization, the nation’s largest owner of affordable housing.

The Evaluation Committee: Cabrillo College • President • Interim Vice President of Administrative Services • Dean of Student Services • Director, Facilities Planning and Plant Operations UCSC • Director, Real Estate and Contract Services.

To receive the grant from SB 169, students must rent at or below 30% of 50% area median income (about $1,046 per bed in 2024) and rent increases are limited.

To qualify to live here, Cabrillo students must be enrolled full time and be considered low income.

Cabrillo College staff expect this project help alleviate the affordable housing crisis in Santa Cruz County. n

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2024 / 11

ELECTION 2024

Central Fire’s Measure R Short of 2/3rds T his was a tough election year for local fire districts.

Central Fire District’s $221 million bond to relocate fire stations — Measure R — is falling short of the 2/3 yes needed to pass.

It has 57.1% yea.

Votes are still being counted, with the deadline Dec. 2 to certify election results.

Scotts Valley Fire District’s $24.5 million bond to relocate the Erba Lane fire station to La Madrona Drive — Measure S — is also falling short, for the second time. It has 61.5% yes.

Zayante Fire District’s parcel tax — Measure T — replacing an existing parcel

tax to pay for daytime firefighters has 72.2% yes.

Fire District Boards In the Scotts Valley Fire District 5-way race for 3 seats, former chief Ron Whittle is leading with 6,486 votes, followed by Michael Weaver, a retired Sunnyale firefighter, 4,940 and incumbent Daron Pisciotta, 4,680.

Trailing are Philip HoverSmoot, CEO of a startup, 3,210 and Zachary Raney, school administrator, 2,154.

In the Felton Fire District, which has had three fire chiefs in 18 months, there was a 7-way race for 3 seats. Appointed incumbent and volunteer firefighter Mike Shults,1,062 is

in the lead, followed by Erica Schwanbeck, a county manager, 1,057, and Doug Conrad, former owner of Boulder Creek Hardware, and a past volunteer firefighter, 951.

Trailing are Judy Anderson, retired banker, 893, Jeffrey Myers, local business owner, 691, Mark Giblin, communications manager,682 and Adam Hensleigh, sales manager, 613.

In the Boulder Creek Fire District

PVUSD: Carol Turley, Jessica Carrasco, Gabriel Medina Lead

Pajaro Valley School Bond Clears 55%

By Jondi Gumz

V

oters called for change on the Pajaro Valley Unified School District board, ousting three incumbents.

Although not all the votes from the Nov. 5 election are counted, challengers rolled up big leads.

In Area 1, Carol Turley has 2,808 votes to 2,206 for incumbent Georgia Acosta, a 600-vote margin.

In Area 6, Jessica Carasco has 2,387 votes to 1,782 for Adam Bolanos Scow, a 600-vote margin.

In Area 4, which covers Santa Cruz and Monterey counties, Gabriel Jesse Medina has 970 votes to 929 for Oscar Soto.

The incumbents did not renew the $110,000 contract with Community Responsive Education of Oakland, a consulting firm for ethnic studies,

over allegations of antisemitic views held by Allyson Tintiangco-Cubales, a San Francisco State University professor and CRE founder.

Teachers and students supported the curriculum.

Acosta and Soto wanted to see the outcome of AB 2918 on ethnic studies, which was held in committee.

The board did not end ethnic studies, but CRE was no longer a resource.

The issue prompted Turley and Medina to run.

Carrasco, a former teacher, and Scow supported the curriculum consultant.

If PVUSD board member Kim De Serpa is elected county supervisor, then one more seat on the 7-member board will open up. n

Kim De Serpa Leads by 600 Votes

N

By Jondi Gumz

ot all that votes are counted, but Aptos resident Kim De Serpa is leading Capitola Mayor Kristen Brown by 600 votes in the race for Second District County Supervisor.

De Serpa, a twice-elected member of the Pajaro Valley Unified School District board, has 11,964 votes.

Brown, twice elected to the Capitola City Council, has 11,305.

De Serpa’s tally has grown from early results showing a 460-vote lead. There are 225 write-ins, not enough to make a difference.

In the Fifth District, Encompass CEO Monica Martinez is leading software engineer Christopher Bradford by more than 3,300 votes.

W

ith six school bonds on local ballots, the Pajaro Valley Unified School District’s $315 million bond — Measure M — is one of four with more than 55% yes needed to pass.

The Pajaro Valley school district straddles two counties.

In Santa Cruz County, 57.1% voted yes; 57.2% voted yes.

Votes are still being counted, with a Dec. 5 day to certify results.

Soquel Elementary School District’s $73 million bond — Measure P — has 55.7% yes.

Aromas-San Juan School District’s $44 million bond — Measure D — has 58.3% yes, with Santa Cruz County voters boosting it.

This district encompasses three counties. The vote in Santa Cruz County was 75.6% yes, San Benito County, 60.6% yes, and Monterey County, 54.9% yes.

Bonny Doon Elementary School District’s $7 million bond — Measure L — has 67.4% yes.

Two bond measures are currently falling short of 55%.

Scotts Valley Unified’s $85 million bond — Measure O — has 54.8% yes.

Live Oak School District’s $45 million bond — Measure N — has 47.5% yes.

A parcel tax for Lakeside Joint School District — Measure HH — needed 2/3 to pass and has 71.1% yes.

This district is in two counties.

In Santa Cruz County, 74% voted yes. In Santa Clara County, 67.5% voted yes. n

Incumbent Democrats Win State Races

I

By Jondi Gumz

n state and federal races, Santa Cruz County voters supported Democrat incumbents by 74% or more Votes are still being counted, with the results to be certified Dec. 5.

In state races, district boundaries changed due to redistricting based on the census with county voters split into two and even three districts. Here are the Santa Cruz County numbers as of Nov. 11.

Kristen Brown Kim De Serpa In Assembly District 30, which includes Santa Cruz County, Monterey County and San Martinez, who lives in Felton, has 14,329 Luis Obispo County, Democrat Dawn Addis has votes to 10,981 for Bradfodr, who lives in 29,914 to 2,914 for Republican Dalila Epperson.

Boulder Creek.

In Assembly District 29, There are 59 write-ins.

Ballot reports from the Salinas Valley, plus WatsonThe deadline to certify Monday, Nov. 11 ville, Aptos Hills, Corralitos and election results is Dec. 5. n

12 / November 15th 2024 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

four-way race for 3 seats, incumbent Robert Locatelli is leading with 3,040 votes, incumbent Chris Currier, 2,501, appointed incumbent David Scruggs, 2,451. and Vince Cortinas, utility manager, 2,359.

In the Aromas Tri-County Fire Protection District 3-way race for 2 seats, Michael Miller leads with 34 votes, and Kevin Stottrup 22 votes. Nazhat Parveen Sharma trails with 11. n

Freedom, Democrat Robert Rivas, has 15,110 to 5,163 for Republican JW Paine.

In Assembly District 28, which includes Scotts Valley, Boulder Creek, Los Gatos Campbell and Morgan Hill, Democrat Gail Pellerin has 45,894 to 13,496 for Republican Liz Lawler.

In the State Senate 17th District, which includes all of Santa Cruz County, Democrat John Laird has 92,027 to 28036 for Republican Tony Virrueta.

In the 19th Congressional District, which includes the coast from Davenport to Cambria and Paso Robles, Democrat Jimmy Panetta has 82,781 to 20,451 for Republican Jason Michael Anderson.

“State Results” page 27

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Post-Election Teachable Moments

T

By Dr. Alison Hanks-Sloan, aka Dr. AHS, Aptos High Principal

he morning after election day, we had a mixture of emotions across the Aptos High School campus. From joyful cheers to shocking tears, we reminded our students and staff that we are on our AHS ship together.

There was a group of about 30 male students gathering around the election results with big smiles. There were many more groups of students with tissue boxes and red eyes. Throughout the week, students asked inquisitive questions, tuned into the news, and looked at election results.

Many of our social studies classes used the opportunity to reflect on the numbers: Which propositions passed (thanks for passing Measure M), how many registered voters cast their ballots, and how different communities voted. Students engaged in civil dialogues with one another in classroom spaces.

We reminded our students to continue to SAIL: create a Safe community at our school, Aspire higher, be Integrity oriented, and Lead by example.

While we might have a variety of views represented, we still need to be kind to one another and respect our different opinions, post-election perspectives, and differing moods.

Unfortunately, a few students forgot to SAIL together.

One student walked up to another student who has a LGTBQ family member and told them that their family member has no rights, thanks to the election results. It left the student shocked and hurt that a fellow Mariner would be so emboldened and hurtful.

Another staff member made a similar comment about an LGTBQ adult, saying that they don’t belong in Aptos.

These reports are disheartening, contradicting the values we share as a school and a community.

I love using Paul Bailey’s phrase that Aptos loves Aptos. To me, that means that we look out for our community, everyone among us, and support one another. It means that we bring Mariner pride into our words and our

actions, as we strive to nourish a school and neighborhoods where we can live and thrive among each other.

We have rules that exist to keep each other safe. At our school and in our state, those include valuing one another with different opinions and treating each other with respect. It also means knowing our country’s history, so we can empathize with one another, learn the lessons, and give value to significant teachable moments.

Ruby Bridges Annual Walk to School Day is Nov. 14. The day honors Ruby Bridges who was 6 years old when she integrated her New Orleans elementary school in 1960. The date has become a celebratory moment for us to align to end racism and bullying one step at a time. Many of our schools will be acknowledging and participating in this event, thanks to a team of student leaders participating in the superintendent’s council. All PVUSD schools are hosting their own mini-walk to commemorate the day.

This event is not just about remembering the work we have done as a nation to create schools that welcome all students. It is also about reflecting on our own biases and lack

of understanding among each other who may not pray, eat, look, or sound quite like we do.

It is also about being aware of the words we use, and the power behind them.

“Post-Election” page 14

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2024 / 13

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“Highways Safety” from page 10 The fatal and severe injury accidents, improper turning was a factor more than 20% of time.

Unsafe speed and under the influence were each factors 20% of the time.

Are schools unsafe to walk to?

The report did not include data om crashes near schools.

To view the report see www.sccrtc.org/ wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241024RHSP-M1-Slide-Deck.pdf The timetable calls for strategies for safety to be developed by May 2025 and to work on the plan from March to November 2025.

The team will prepare a draft report and finalize upon receiving comments from Caltrans, the RTC, stakeholders such as Metro bus service, San Lorenzo Valley Unified School District, Pajaro Valley Unified School District, UC Santa Cruz, first responders, business groups, neighborhood groups and the public.

The final report, which will be presented to the RTC for input and approval, must provide a federally acceptable document for projects to compete and meet the requirements for Highway Safety Improvement Program and Safe Streets for All funding. n ••• See sccrtc.org/rhsp to access the survey in English and Spanish

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“Post-Election” from page 13 While the N-word might be common in different music genres, it does not give individuals the right to use it in our hallways, among each other, or out of frustration or ignorance. The word can be triggering and is offensive, as it has been used to express hatred. There are also offensive terms in Spanish and English too commonly used in our county about and among our Latino community that should not be used in our school or when getting to know new students.

Our words among each other should help us bridge gaps, not expand them.

Inclusivity is more than an educational buzzword. It is a core value in our county. Please don’t let the national election results pause, dampen, or change the direction that we SAIL in our community. Our students have created more than 50 clubs that connect to their

passion and interest, including Anchored in Christ, Aptos for Africa, Robotics, Fashion, Migrant Student Association, Rainbow Alliance, Youth for Environmental Action, and Poppy’s Poets. Let’s celebrate and honor all of us.

Our strength is our diversity. We as Aptos (and Watsonville, Corralitos, Soquel, Pajaro, etc) respect one another and our different views. Results from a national election should not change the pride and love that we have for one another in our community.

We value inclusivity and restorative practices to help our students (and staff) discuss and resolve challenges. Our schools have systems to support our families and students, each and every day, too. Please reach out to any school staff when there are challenges, as we are here to support you and our students as we SAIL together. It’s always a great time to be a Mariner. n

Aptos Girls Tennis: Perfect!

A

LOCAL SPORTS

By Tammi Brown

ptos High Girls Tennis had an amazing season, securing the 2024 SCCAL League Title with a perfect 10-0 League record!

We had nine returning players this year including Team Captain Aviana Andrews, a senior who was an undefeated force at number two singles. This was Avi’s third year with the team, following up her 2023 MVP undefeated season at number four singles.

Freshman Kiana Safari was new to the team but stepped right into the number one singles position like she’d been with us for years. Kiana never dropped a set in League matches, she had an amazing win-loss record of 78-6 in games played.

Three-year veteran Coral Collins, a junior, had another great competitive season, anchoring the team at number three singles and helping us secure wins in several pivotal matches.

Our “Team of 13” loves to play tennis and is constantly improving, giving us strength in both singles and doubles. This dedication is evident

in our 66-4 individual match count in League matches. We are a tennis family, supporting and encouraging each other every day.

Four Aptos players made it into the finals of the SCCAL Singles and Doubles Tournament on Nov. 6.

Kiana Safari (#1 seed) and Aviana Andrews (#3 seed) played each other in the singles final with Kiana taking the match. Coral Collins and Isabella Calderon (seeded #3) played in the doubles finals and were defeated by a very strong pair from Scotts Valley, Sofia Niklaus and Erin Szymanski (seeded #1).

Aptos plays Stevenson School in Pebble Beach in the first round of the CCS Tournament on Nov. 12 and Kiana Safari will represent the SCCAL in the CCS Singles Tournament at Bay Club Courtside in Los Gatos on Nov. 18.

It’s been an awesome season with a wonderful group of players and I’ve loved every minute of it. n ••• Tammi Brown is head coach of the Aptos High School girls tennis team.

BACK ROW (from left): Isabella Calderon, Natalia Calderon, Julia Blevins, Kiana Safari, Sadie Chapman, Coral Collins, Neci Hoeptner, Charlotte Long, Gia Arista FRONT ROW (from left): Head Coach Tammi Brown, Finn Gansaeuer Pilcher, Gamble Kellermyer, Team Captain Aviana Andrews, Aracely Ritchie, Assistant Coach Sam Brown.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2024 / 15

NOVEMBER 2024

Aptos Real Estate Update Ruth Bates 831.359.2212

ruthbates1@gmail.com CalBRE#01799929

LOWEST VOLUME OF HOMES SOLD SINCE 1995

“2024 will register the lowest volume of home sales since 1995, due to the combination of higher interest rates, record high prices, weak inventory in many areas, and the lock-in effect of the low mortgage rates that most of us took during Covid days. This “lock-in” effect has prevented the sale of an estimated 1.33 million homes in the US.” (Market Watch) APTOS SOLD (PAST 30 DAYS)

18 homes sold, AVG DOM = 56 days, AVG Sales Price (SP) = $2,355,188. High sale was 369 Beach Drive - $3,900,000 – 137 days on market (DOM). Low sale was 120 Sand Hill - $1,325,000 – 3 bed/3bath/2023 SF on 1.2 acres, 86 DOM. Also sold: 1695 Aptos Creek Rd - $3,851,000, 340 Beach Drive - $3,250,000, 702 Vista Del Mar - $2,895,000, 627 Seacliff - $2,850,000, 3030 Pleasant Valley $2,790,000, 2947 Pleasant Valley - $2,562,500, 325 Kingsbury - $2,500,000, 3684 Misty Lane - $2,450,000, 332 Palmer - $1,995,000, 810 Seacliff - $1,898,888, 140 Greenbrier $1,895,000, 1730 Jennifer - $1,750,000, 622 Cliff - $1,600,000, 206 Lake - $1500,000.

4 condos sold – AVG SP = $894,000. 6 Townhomes sold, AVG DP = $1,023,000.

APTOS ACTIVE — 48 homes are for sale as of 11/08/24. Average DOM = 68. Median List Price (LP) is $1,797,450. Near the Median are: 206 Via Novella – LP $1,875,000 – 145 DOM, 181 Thunderbird – LP $1,799,000 – 36 DOM, 531 Santa Marguarita – LP $1,795,000 – 29 DOM, 105 Granada – LP $1,725,000 – 18 DOM, 509 Woodhaven – LP $1,698,000 – 51 DOM, 534 Robin – LP$1,595,000- 26 DOM, 3177 W Ledyard – LP $1,595,000 – 86 DOM. Four Condos and 7 townhomes are for sale. High list is 123 Marina – 175 DOM – asking $1,299,000. Low list is 6030 Soquel – 55 DOM - asking $595,000.

ECONOMY — “Most leaders from around the world would trade their economies for the US’s in a heartbeat. Through the second quarter, the U.S. grew 3%; In the third quarter it grew at 2.8%. None of the world’s next 6 largest advanced economies grew more than 1%. Even China is struggling.

European Union companies still pay 2-3 times more for electricity and 4-5 times more for natural gas than their U.S. counterparts.” (WSJ)

MORTGAGE RATES — “Mortgage rates will remain above 6% throughout 2025. Elevated rates will lead to fewer sales”. (Goldman Sachs). Note: Local Buyer rate quoted as of 11/06/24 = 6.683%. National Avg = 7.13% ——— Call, email, text anytime and Get Results With Ruth!

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Mesmerized by Monarchs O n a recent day, curious first graders from Mount Madonna School followed the “Monarch Trail,” an elevated, wooden path at Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz that leads to a small viewing deck. There, surrounded by a grove of towering eucalyptus trees, their faces turned upward in awe, mesmerized by the abundant clusters of Monarch butterflies holding fast to tree branches and flying all around them.

Their visit was part of their school life science study, bringing classroom lessons alive.

“Mount Madonna first graders are studying native California endangered animals and what we can do to protect them,” said teacher Rochelle Saxton. “There are a

Courtesy of Mount Madonna School

couple of butterfly species native to California and categorized as endangered.

Some of these are endangered because of habitat destruction and humans consuming more than what they need. As a class, we have been talking about things we can do to help butterflies to thrive.”

The tour of the grove was much anticipated.

“It was a really wonderful day,” said Saxton. “Students learned about the Monarchs’ dwindling population, how they migrate to escape the winter cold in Santa Cruz’s milder climate and what people can do to support conservation efforts.”

Saxon said the Natural Bridges park docent also discussed the important role butterflies play in gardens, the pollination process and why it is important for humans.

“This was really great because we are talking about how our interactions lead to consequences in our environment,” said Saxton. “It really helped students understand the impact their choices have on not only butterflies, but us too!”

The Mount Madonna School program allows for an abundance of off-campus learning journeys each year for all grade levels, preschool through high school, to support and enhance the classroom curriculum.

Robert Siegel, MD, Ph.D., Stanford University

“There is nothing like walking through a Monarch grove and marveling at the colorful and fragile beauty,” Saxton said. “Seeing their vibrant colors up close and watching how the light touched their wings – it was magical from the students’ perspective. Being in nature and seeing butterflies up close and in person, helps foster students’ curiosity and wonder about the natural world. I’m hoping it will inspire and motive these children to become environmental stewards of the future.” n

Robert Siegel, MD, Ph.D., Stanford University

Campaign for Farmworker Opportunity Center

A

griculture and Land-Based Training Association, known as ALBA, announces plans to open the Farmworker Opportunity Center, a project designed to equip Latino farmworkers with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed as independent organic farmers or to pursue careers in sustainable agriculture.

ALBA, based in Salinas, has secured 20% of the funding for the Farmworker Opportunity Center, estimated to cost $2 million, and is now appealing to community members, businesses, and philanthropic partners for the remainder.

The goal is to create a beacon of opportunity via land-based training in organic farm management and agricultural advancement, with the mission to lift families out of poverty and build a brighter future for our communities.

Every day, dedicated farmworkers toil in the fields, often earning only $30,000 per year with limited opportunities to advance.

ALBA envisions a path where talented and hardworking individuals can transition to economic independence.

The Farmworker Opportunity Center will provide:

16 / November 15th 2024 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

• Land-Based Training: Practical, on-site training covering essential aspects of organic farm management.

• Business Development Resources: Training in business planning, finance, and marketing transitioning from field work to farm ownership, including • Expanded Facilities: State-of-the-art classrooms and workspaces, “ALBA sees the talent, resilience, and dedication of these farmworkers,” said

Patricia Carrillo, executive director of ALBA. “Through this project, we’re creating a pathway to independence for people who want to achieve their farming dreams and lift their families from poverty. This is more than a building — it’s a bridge to opportunity.” n ••• You can join ALBA in building this transformative center. Donations can be made at https:// www.albafarmers.org/donate/

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COMMUNITY NEWS

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18 / November 15th 2024 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

rom their experience with California wildfires, Cal Fire recommends homeowners create defensible space as a buffer to protect your home from embers, flames, or heat.

Have you created defensible space in the past couple years? Please share your solutions with your neighbors. Email a photo, a description of what you did and what you paid to Editor Jondi Gumz at info@cybertimes.com.

Here are the guidelines and regulations from www.readyforwildfire.gov: Zone 0 – Ember Resistant, 5 feet from the house, garage and deck While not legally required yet, Zone 0 is key for wildfire defense and preventing fires from spreading to your home.

Here are the current guidelines: • Use gravel, pavers, or concrete instead of combustible mulch • Clear dead weeds, grass, and debris; check roofs, gutters, and outdoor areas • Keep branches trimmed 10 feet away from chimneys and stovepipes • Minimize combustible items like furniture and planters on decks • Move firewood and lumber to Zone 2 for safety • Replace combustible fencing and gates with fire-resistant materials • Shift garbage and recycling containers to a safer area outside this zone • Relocate boats, RVs, and vehicles away from this zone to reduce fire risks Zone 1 – Lean, Clean, & Green, extends 30 feet from home, garage and decks or to your property line, whichever is closer.

• Clear all dead plants, grass, and weeds • Remove dead leaves and pine needles from your yard, roof, and gutters • Trim overhanging branches and keep them 10 feet from your chimney • Regularly trim trees to maintain a 10-foot gap from others • Move wood piles to Zone 2 • Prune flammable plants and shrubs near windows • Clear flammable vegetation and items from under decks, balconies, and stairs • Maintain space between trees, shrubs, and flammable items like patio furniture and wood piles • Ensure outbuildings and LPG tanks have 10 feet of clear space to bare soil and no flammable vegetation within an additional 10 feet around them Zone 2 – Reduce Fuel, extends from 30 feet to 100 feet from your home, garage, deck, or to your property line, whichever is closer.

• Trim annual grass to a maximum height of 4 inches • Space out shrubs and trees horizontally • Ensure vertical spacing between grass, shrubs, and trees. A 5-foot shrub near a tree needs 15 feet of clearance to the tree’s lowest branch.

• Remove fallen leaves, needles, and small branches, but can leave up to 3 inches • Keep exposed wood piles at least 10 feet clear from surroundings, down to the soil • Ensure outbuildings and LPG tanks have 10 feet of clear space to bare soil and no flammable vegetation within an additional 10 feet around them n

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Cabrillo College Receives $150,000 for Veterans Mental Health O

n Nov. 8, Cabrillo College announced veterans mental health resources and support a $150,000 grant to implement the Vet- off campus and in the local community. erans Mental Health Demonstration Among others, these local partnerships Project, starting this month. would include the Santa Cruz Veterans The two-year grant is one of 10 awarded by Center, as well as Veterans Centers at CSU the California Community Colleges Chancel- Monterey Bay and UC Santa Cruz to provide lor’s Office. a clear transfer pathway for transitioning The grant funding will help to establish military service members. and increase local, regional, and statewide Funding from the grant would also help partnerships to expand campus support, expand mental health counseling at Cabrillo for resources, and enrollment for veterans and would provide transitioning military service more organic opportunities for members, prioritizing mental Cabrillo student veterans to health services. engage in holistic health and The grant funding will well-being practices such as art also help facilitate professional therapy, stress management, and development opportunities to mental health first aid training. educate campus faculty and “Cabrillo’s Veterans staff on the needs of student Information Center has been military service members, recognized statewide as a providing trauma-informed model for providing wrapapproaches and regional around services and resources resources to foster a campus of to student veterans,” said Matt visible allies that supports and Wetstein, Cabrillo College promotes the overall success of president and superintendent. veterans and service members.

“With this grant, we’re At Cabrillo, this would able to expand the Cabrillo be a VET NET Ally training College Veterans Information Juan Diego Alvarez program, offered at Cabrillo’s Center’s commitment to vetVeterans Information Center as a faculty and erans’ mental health and overall well-being, staff awareness program to expand campus- ensuring they have access to essential support wide allyship around the needs and concerns and resources, said Dr. Devin Walker, Cabrillo of military veterans.

College director of student success and equity.

The grant will enable the development “We are thrilled and extremely grateful of peer-to-peer student veteran networks and to receive this grant to support our veterans,” programs. said Juan Diego (J.D.) Alvarez, Cabrillo It would provide funding for student College veteran programs coordinator. “This wellness ambassadors through Cabrillo’s grant is a game-changer.” n ••• Student Health Services department and Learn more at https://www.cabrillo.edu/ would aid in the creation of external partnerships with local veteran agencies, to extend the veteran-information-center/

Freedom Lake Restoration to Begin

O

n Oct. 30, Santa Cruz County Parks and Supervisor Zach Friend announced a collaborative initiative to restore and maintain Freedom Lake by removing invasive and non-native vegetation species that have overgrown.

This partnership aims to enhance the ecological health of the surrounding lake area and limited access to the lakeshore.

Freedom Lake, cherished by wildlife and the community, is off Freedom Boulevard about a half-mile from the Cadillac Café. The overgrowth of non-naïve plants have limited access to the lakeshore and diminished water quality.

In upcoming months, teams from Watsonville Wetlands Watch and the California

Conservation Corps will work side by side to identify and remove these invasive species, with the longer-term objective of lake water restoration.

“Freedom Lake is one of the most bucolic settings in our area and restoration is an important for gift for our community,” Santa Cruz County Supervisor Zach Friend said.

“With support from Supervisor Friend and his staff, and our partnership with Watsonville Wetlands Watch, the renewal of Freedom Lake is becoming a reality,” said Rebecca Hurley, deputy director of Santa Cruz County Parks.

“Freedom Lake” page 27

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County Recommends $3.44 Million for 28 Programs

R

By Jondi Gumz

eviewing how to invest $3+ million in community well-being for next three years, Santa Cruz County supervisors shifted their focus from eight to four priorities — Lifelong Learning, Older Adults and Children, Stable Affordable Housing & Shelter and Healthy Environments — and are poised to vote $3.44 million in funding for 28 programs on Tuesday, Nov. 19.

More than 50% of the funding is to be directed to services for South County residents, who have historically seen less investment than North County.

Another $1.5 million is to be dedicated to providing shelter and helping resolve housing insecurity for residents, including in South County, where homelessness rose 60% in a year, with awards to be made later.

And $1 million is to be set aside to address emerging needs and proposals not otherwise recommended for awards.

The full list of recommendations is at https://tinyurl.com/SCC-programrecommend-2024.

The funding process, known as CORE (Collective of Results and Evidence-Based) Investments, is competitive and done in concert with the City of Santa Cruz.

The largest award, $500,000, is earmarked for Ventures Semillitas College Saving Accounts, providing seed deposits and milestone contribution opportunities for children from working-class households.

Here are 13 more: Dignity Health Dominican Hospital: $324,356 to provide exercise, education, and support for seniors and people with disabilities.

Community Bridges, $247,500 for its Family Resource Centers to prevent childhood adversity Encompass: $240,765 for new youth peer mentors in the behavioral health and outpatient substance abuse programs.

Community Bridges: $200,000 for Elderday, the free program for low-income adults.

Eat for the Earth, Salud en Plate: $150,000 for a 2-week immersion in a whole-food plant-based diet through education, practical support, and mentoring for Latinos with chronic disease.

Salud Para La Gente: $150,000 for a screening program for youth newborn to age 24.

Community Action Board: $150,000 for the Youth Homeless Response Team.

Community Action Board: $150,000 the

Alcance program at Luna Y Sol to encourage 60 youth to create a relationship with a caring adult.

Jacob’s Heart: $149,227 for support services for 122 children with cancer and 522 siblings and family members in Santa Cruz County.

County Park Friends: $121,074 for Park Rx, in which trained providers screen patients for eligibility and prescribe ParkRx when indicated.

Boys and Girls Club: $115,000 for a behavior specialist for 120 children in theSmart Moves Program.

CASA: $99,316 to train volunteers to mentor and advocate for children under court jurisdiction due to abuse or neglect.

Black Surf Santa Cruz: $86,870 for an ocean program for beginners and single-day community surf lessons.

County spokesman Jason Hoppin said, “Together, the awards will advance the health and well-being of 10,000 county residents by assisting older adults, children and families; promoting lifelong learning and education and protecting the environment.”

He added that the share of funding recommended for seniors programming will remain proportionally similar to the prior three years.

About 100 applications were submitted, seeking more than $15 million.

Among those not funded: Digital Nest, free tech training for Latino youth, Your Future is Our Business career exploration project for teens, Mariposa Arts, artists mentor high school students who deliver culturally relevant arts lessons in afterschool programs at 15+ PVUSD schools, United Way Cradle to Career, providing students in marginalized communities with educational support, Santa Cruz Mountains Trails Stewardship summer trail program for youth 18-27, Community Action Board Floreciendo en Comunidad supporting indigenous speakers who are community health workers.

“County Investments” page 27

COMMUNITY NEWS

Live Oak Library Annex Open House S anta Cruz Public Libraries announces an open house 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23 for the newly built Live Oak Library Annex next to the Simpkins Family Swim Center, 979 17th Ave. Library staff invite the community to visit the $4.8 million space championed by former county supervisor John Leopold and learn more about services available.

This celebration will include face-painting, a dance performance by Grupo Folklórico Los Mejicas and highlights of Santa Cruz Public Library resources offered at the 10 branches.

The Annex is an extension of the resources that the Live Oak Branch Library provides.

With Santa Cruz County Parks, the Annex primarily is a space for programs and quiet study. Library services include a small collection of about 500 books for children and teens. Patrons will soon be able to place holds on books for pickup at the Annex.

The Santa Cruz Public Libraries outreach team will visit the Annex twice a week and the Annex will have a permanent book return drop box.

Given its strategic location in the vicinity of Shoreline Middle School, Del Mar Elementary, Live Oak Elementary, and next to the Boys and Girls Club, it provides a convenient third place for the Live Oak students to study and do homework. n For information on programs at the Live Oak Library Annex see https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/calendar

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2024 / 21

COMMUNITY NEWS

New School Lauded by Foundation E ach year, the California Environmental Education Foundation provides a monetary award to recognize one California student, educator, and administrator for their distinguished service and dedication in the form of projects, programs, or initiatives which advance excellence in environmental education.

This year, New School Community Day School in Watsonville, designed for students who may not graduate because they have lost credits at their high school, received the award in the administrator category for their Outdoor School & Character Development program.

New School students are participating in the 13th version of Outdoor School & Character Development, a program that combines field trips and community service learning projects to expose students to local environmental issues, organizations, partners and businesses.

By the end of this fall, nearly 400 students

C

Satina Ciandro

By Tricia Wiltshire

will have taken part in New School’s Outdoor School & Character Development program since its inception in 2017, committing 2,000 hours of community service projects with 30 different community partners on 90 field trips.

The program shifts the perspectives of the majority of teens who participate, deepening their bonds with one another and their community while helping relieve the stress of their daily lives.

Students have shared that the program gives them hope.

“We’re thrilled to receive recognition from an organization like the CEEF for our Outdoor School & Character Development program because we believe more schools could be doing what we do!” said New School’s lead teacher Russell Bryan Love.

This fall, with the theme of Agriculture and Food Systems themed program, New School students have already visited Roaring Camp Railroad in Felton, hiked Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, toured Driscoll’s berry facilities and worked with FoodWhat?! at their UC Santa Cruz farm Harvest Festival.

Next up are experiential visits to Esperanza Community Farms, a neighborhood cleanup and school garden day, Second Harvest Food Bank, and Pinto Lake.

Students who meet all expectations for these first seven field trips get to go on the program’s incentive trip to California’s Great America Winterfest just before school lets out for winter break.

Watsonville High School biology teacher Satina Ciandro, was recognized by the CEEF in this year’s educator category.

Through her long-standing work with the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Satina and her students participate in the aquarium’s Ocean Plastics Pollution Summit and Climate Action Projects Summit. She became a lead teacher in the Watsonville Area Teens Conserving Habitats (WATCH) program. Through WATCH,

New School’s Outdoor School & Character Development staff. students spent the summer exploring the students’ growing commitment to enviPajaro River Watershed, meeting with local ronmental issues, especially after terrible scientists and participating in inquiry-based flooding in the Pajaro area. learning. Students also learned about enviShe is advisor of the SAVE club which ronmental issues in their community and raises awareness about local environmental participate in local restoration efforts. concerns and are changing the waste manIn the fall, the same students enrolled in agement system at their school to include a WATCH Honors Biology class with Satina composting. She also serves on the disand developed their own field research trict Green Team and has helped convince project based on an environmental topic. They the superintendent to set a goal of Green worked with Aquarium staff and teachers, Business Certification for every school in the as well as scientists and educators from the district. n community to complete their projects. Upon ••• completion of the projects, students received Both New School and Watsonville High a scholarship and community service hours School are part of the Pajaro Valley Unified School required for graduation. Satina has observed District.

Youth Scholarships: Can You Help?

ounty Park Friends is raising $30,000 in access scholarships to support active and healthy lifestyles for local youth. They need your help!

“Parks have the ability to transform lives but the reality is that even some low-cost fees can provide barriers to access for local families. This effort by County Park Friends can help break down those barriers so local kids can have access to the camps, facilities and experiences that our local parks system provides,” said Supervisor Zach Friend.

Help Kids Play Scholarships cover those fees for qualified youth. Through tax-deductible donations,

local residents can help County Park Friends raise $30,000 for scholarships by December 2024. Donations can be made at countyparkfriends.org “Applications for Access Grants open to the public in February and March each year, and last year’s interest exceeded available funding,” said Mariah Roberts, executive director.

County Park Friends previously awarded Access Grant Scholarships to 140 youth from 104 eligible families, including 89 awards for County Parks’ Learn to Swim Program and 24 awards for a full session of Pool Guards. Other awards covered sports, nature or other programming offered by Santa Cruz County Parks. n

22 / November 15th 2024 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Photo Credit: County Park Friends

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Survival Guide: Trekking through Airports

By Christopher Elliott

D

on’t forget to pack your hiking shoes this holiday travel season, because you’re going to need them more than

ever.

It’s a long walk through the airport — a long, long walk.

Dave Dzurick spent almost an hour trekking through Seattle’s terminals when he arrived from Canada recently. First, there was an extended walk to customs, then another hike to the TSA screening area, and then another march to his connecting gate.

“It was a nightmare,” says Dzurick, a retired broadcast engineer from Tucson, Ariz.

His problem is becoming more common.

Just look at the newest airport terminals opening in Dubai, New York or Los Angeles, and you’ll see that almost no effort has been made to shorten the walk to the gate. If anything, it takes longer to get to the plane.

But these aren’t the worst offenders when it comes to walking times from check-in to your gate. A recent survey

by Kuru Footwear found that Dallas had the longest walks among large domestic airports (2.16 miles) followed by Washington, D.C. (1.62 miles) and Houston (1.52 miles).

“Many large airports across the country continue to expand and build new terminals,” notes Victoria Schmid, a spokeswoman for Kuru.

If you want a short walk to the terminal, try a smaller airport like Lexington, Ky., where it’s just a hop, skip and a jump to the gates.

But does it really take longer to get to the gate, or is it your imagination? And how will these distances affect your next trip? As someone who practically lives in an airport terminal, I have the answer to all these questions. Plus, I’ll tell you how to survive your next airport adventure.

Farther to the Gate?

I couldn’t find any recent scientific studies on how far passengers have to walk, or if they have to walk farther now than before. But it sure feels that way. In fairness, some large airports have added new trains that significantly reduce the

amount of walking time. Still, the newest airport terminals aren’t exactly getting any smaller.

The problem may be worse overseas.

Claire Ramsdell recently made a connection at Istanbul Airport, which features a gleaming new terminal that stretches over 77 million square feet, and thought she wouldn’t make it.

“When I got off the plane I ran full speed to the other gate,” remembers Ramsell, a photographer and frequent traveler. “I had to stop to go through security halfway through. I went down a long never-ending hallway, through security, took an elevator down a floor, ran down a long hallway again, then ran up some stairs, across that floor, and then down another staircase.”

She made her flight after finding a faster security line specifically for international-todomestic transfers.

I’ve had the same problem in Istanbul — a ridiculously long walk between gates and that sinking feeling that I wouldn’t make it to my next flight. But somehow, I always did.

Your Next Flight

I’ve been traveling almost nonstop for the last eight years, but for the last few years, I’ve carefully tracked my steps on my Google Watch. On a travel day, I’m always worried that I won’t get enough exercise — I try to walk at least 20,000 steps a day.

But lately, when I fly, I always get plenty of steps. Enormous airports like Doha, Frankfurt and London always give me enough opportunity to walk, whether I want to or not.

For someone like me who wants to stretch his legs, the long walk isn’t really a problem. But a few years ago, after I broke my pelvis in a horrific ski accident, these long walks seemed like an insurmountable obstacle because I was hobbling slowly on crutches and with luggage.

I have readers who are in the same situation. They love to travel, but the walk to the gate is almost too much. It seems like the architects who built these terminals didn’t give a thought to the 12 percent of Americans with mobility impairments.

require a lot of walking and standing, and it’s important for your foot health, and overall health, to ensure you have supportive and well-fitting shoes.”

Get informed. Airport signage can be confusing, and in the heat of the moment, you can easily make a turn and head in the

wrong direction. Most big airports have an app or a website with a terminal map. (Oh, I know, your family will call you a nerd for downloading it, but they will also thank you when you get to the gate on time.)

“Trekking” page 27

Elliott’s tips

This holiday travel season, maybe you’ll have to endure a forced march to the gate. But there are ways to make it easier.

Go light. The worst thing you can do is weigh yourself down with a heavy backpack or overloaded carry-on luggage.

Pack light to ensure a stress-free walk to your gate.

Grab a comfortable pair of shoes. “Wear comfortable footwear,” advises Schmid, the Kuru spokeswoman. “Large airports

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2024 / 23

FEATURED COLUMNIST

A Meeting of Soulmates

By Barry and Joyce Vissell

The following is excerpted from the new book by Joyce and Barry Vissell, A Couple of Miracles: One Couple, More than a Few Miracles.

••• s a first-year college student at Hartwick College in Oneonta, New York, I tried, for a few months anyway, to be the person I thought I should be. I fell in with Alpha Delta Omega fraternity which, at the time, had a reputation of being the “partying” fraternity. I tried to convince myself that “sophisticated” girls were the ones to date. The word in 1964 was “cool,” as in **West Side Story**.

I saw Joyce for the first time at a soccer game on a very cold day later that fall. I was sitting on the bleachers with some of my “cool” dorm buddies. I was in college now, and I wanted to show everyone that I was an adult. That meant controlled laughter … not too loud … and controlled body movements … never anything that could be judged as childish. After all, I was 18 years old and all grown up.

There was a loud outburst of almost hysterical laughter a few rows above me.

I turned to see who could be making such an immature display of emotion. It was an attractive female freshman with large blue-green captivating eyes, sitting with her friends and laughing the “wrong” way … way too loud, uncontrolled, obviously immature, and worst of all, not caring at all what people must be thinking of her — in other words, “not cool.” How dare she act so childish!

But I couldn’t stop looking at her. My mind was repelled by her, but my heart, which I scarcely understood at the time, was irresistibly attracted to her. I was having

A

minimal fun. Joyce was having all the fun she wanted. I was dampening my joy. Joyce was freeing hers, living up to her name.

I was hiding my childlikeness. Joyce was in no hurry to grow up, exuberant in her innocence.

I forced myself to look back at the soccer game, but my curiosity overwhelmed me.

I kept sneaking glances over my shoulder.

Who was this girl who cared so little about being cool? She was simply allowing herself to have an outrageously good time. Her joy was innocently and unselfconsciously bubbling over. I, on the other hand, was caught in a world of social conformity, a world of play-acting to get the approval of others. I felt shame, then embarrassment, and looked away again. I had a feeling of insecurity deep inside me … that this girl would never willingly have much to do with me.

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For the next several weeks, I tried to get boldness. I was deeply impressed, and I still the image of this girl out of my mind but I didn’t even know her name. couldn’t. Then came the first snowstorm of A short time later, I applied at the school the year. Someone in our boys’ dorm had the cafeteria for a job as student-waiter to help idea to attack the girls’ dorm and challenge with college expenses. Dinners were a bit of the girls to a snowball fight. We bundled a formal affair, with sit-down dining for the up and ran, whooping and hollering, across students. The job paid a whole dollar an hour. campus. Outside the girls’ dorm, we started For some reason, boys and girls were paired throwing snowballs at the windows, and up to work as a team serving a row of tables. yelled out challenges.

And who did I happen The girls wasted no to be assigned with? time in hurriedly You guessed it, Joyce. dressing and rushing I was thrilled — out of the dorm to meet and uncomfortable at our challenge. I was the same time. I don’t ready with snowball in think I ever felt quite hand. I spotted a good that uncomfortable target, a girl standing around a girl. Perhaps it about a hundred feet was the combination of away with her back my profound attraction, to me. I launched my bundled with my fear projectile with the practhat she wouldn’t like ticed arm of a baseball me. And what if she player, then watched in found out that it was horror as the girl turned my snowball that hit around. Almost in slow her head? motion, and helpless Meanwhile, Joyce to stop the arcing trahad noticed me almost Young Barry and Joyce jectory, I watched the from the beginning of snowball heading right for her face, and the school year. She and her friends referred recognized the face. It was the girl from the to me as “the boy who dressed weird.” You soccer game, the girl I felt so attracted to, and see, I had very little awareness of clothes. My so conflicted about. mother had bought all Too late, I saw the my clothes and, to tell snowball smash into the truth, she had very the middle of her head. poor taste in clothes. I I heard her startled guess I stood out from scream. For a moment, the crowd, but not in a I didn’t know if she was hurt. And I didn’t good way. And that’s probably why Joyce dare announce my guilt. had noticed me.

Suddenly, she burst out laughing, bent Now we worked together. And I wore over to grab a bunch of snow, and took off a uniform as a waiter, so I suppose I looked after some boys. They saw her racing toward better. them with such wild abandon that they turned “Soulmates” page 26 and ran in fear. All I could do was gawk at her

COMMUNITY NEWS

Graham Hill Road: 161 Homes Proposed

By Jondi Gumz

M

ike Formico is taking advantage of the “builder’s remedy” to propose a subdivision of 161 homes and townhomes on his 40-acre horse pasture on Graham Hill Road from Lockwood Lane to Rollingwoods Drive.

He bought the rural property as four parcels in 2019 for $3.9 million from Richard Lam, whose father Arthur Lam, who owned a local market for 54 years and enjoyed farming as a hobby.

This location is zoned single-family rural residential, 20,000-square foot lot minimum.

Formico knows the property well as he lives on Graham Hill Road.

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

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

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

The development project, called The Haven, is proposed to be built on four parcels.

According to the 65-page pre-application submitted to Santa Cruz County Planning, it would include: • 117 market-rate single-family homes.

• 11 market-rate townhouses.

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

• 7 affordable townhouses for moderateincome residents.

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

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

• 14.3 acres undeveloped and connected with existing hiking trails.

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

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

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

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

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Property Managers

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

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

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

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

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

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

The pre-application was submitted

by Lance Tate, of Tate Development & Investment in Del Mar, which has completed projects in Cupertino, Hayward and San Jose.

He’s an alum of Harker School, Menlo School and University of the Pacific.

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

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

I

Annexation Sought

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

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

“Graham Hill Housing” page 27

Famous Buildings

26. TV shows, e.g.

ACROSS 30. Will Ferrell’s “Funny or 1. Performer’s time to ____” shine 31. Steve McQueen’s “The 5. Selfie, e.g.

Great ____” (1963) 8. One of five Ws 34. Toss a coin 11. Trës ____, or very 35. ____ & Young financial stylish services company 12. Mandolin’s cousin 37. Kimono tie 13. Knitter’s unit 38. Sweating room 15. Aren’t, colloquially 39. Short skirt 16. Mimicked 17. *Like House with Oval 40. Batter (2 words) 42. Lake, in French Office 18. *The Hunchback’s home 43. Anise seed (1 word) 45. *____ of Versailles or (2 words) Buckingham ____ 20. Listening devices 47. ____ of war 21. Flirtatious stares 48. Sinbad the Sailor’s 22. Salt, in Spanish home 23. *____ State Building 50. Not good 52. *St. Basil’s in Moscow or St. Paul’s in London

56. *The Parthenon in Athens is made of this 57. Capital of Norway 58. Aeneas’ lover 59. More slippery 60. Animal protein 61. Independent chieftain 62. High degree 63. TV program interruptions 64. Retired, abbr.

7. Give up a state 8. Dam-like structure 9. Not misses 10. Football’s extra point 12. Soup scoopers 13. Make a solemn promise 14. *Burj ____, tallest building in the world 19. Wading bird 22. “Monkey ____, monkey do” 23. Bodily swelling DOWN 24. Rice wine 1. CAT or PET, e.g.

25. 1/100th of Finnish 2. *Key Tower, tallest markka building in this Buckeye 26. Rotisserie skewer state 27. Spurious wing 3. Laundry room fire 28. Cancer-treating hazard machine, acr.

4. Type of local tax 29. *____ Needle, Seattle 5. Pupa, pl.

32. For boys and girls 6. Things 33. Lawyers’ org.

36. *____ Chapel, Vatican City 38. Flat replacement 40. “____, borrow or steal” 41. Eventual outcome 44. Leonhard ____, Swiss mathematician (17071783) 46. Portable stairs 48. Headquartered 49. Road-tripping guide 50. Carve in stone 51. Emptiness 52. Vegetative state 53. Ice crystals 54. Passage in a coal mine 55. Voldemort’s title 56. Small amount of drink

© Statepoint Media

Answers on 31 »

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2024 / 25

Mantram of Unification & the Scorpio Tests

T

Esoteric Astrology • Mid-November 2024 • By Risa D’Angeles

he November 5 election, under the sign of Scorpio, was/is the most important event in the history of our country since its founding in 1776.

During Scorpio humanity is given Nine Tests (physical, emotional and mental). The November 5, 2024 vote and the election were part of the testing. As for the outcome of the election, we are now in a time of transition — the light seeking to emerge from the last many years of darkness (Ray 4 of Scorpio).

The Scorpio tests this year will last until January 6 (presidential confirmation) and then ‘til January 20 (inauguration day, Uranus at the midheaven), then through May 2025 (after the multiple retrogrades). How do we work with the tests? We are to examine our behaviors, cultivate virtues, know and identify our true nature (spirits). And then become harmonizers and unifiers in the world, responding to the needs of humanity after the election.

I am posting therefore the Mantram of Unification. The New Group of World Servers, men and women of Goodwill recite this th

mantram daily for humanity’s unification and well-being. Join us, everyone.

“The sons and daughters of men (thinking ones) are One and we are one with them. We seek to love, not hate; We seek to serve and not exact due service; We seek to heal, not hurt. Let pain bring due reward of light and love. Let the soul control the outer form, and life and all events And bring to light the love that underlies the happenings of the time. Let vision come and insight. Let the future stand revealed. Let inner union demonstrate and outer cleavages be gone. Let love prevail. Let all of humanity love.”

As we experience the Scorpio tests, we are to create the new reality which is unification within ourselves and then with the world around us. This foreshadows the golden age of Aquarius (beginning when Pluto enters Aquarius, November 19th).

Scorpio carries the test of Right Choice down into the physical plane, and then, when the tests are faced and handled rightly, the reasoning mind solves the problems, and our lives are carried up to the stars and into the heavens. n

ARIES So many questions are being posed now. How to be a harmonizer, how to unify, how to accelerate kindness and care for others. Also, how to more fully secure finances and resources and also stabilize relationships? These questions you ponder the next several months. Some answers.

Maintain necessary confidentiality yet be very truthful with those you trust. Pay bills, organize and safeguard important papers, tend to long forgotten needs, and allow no alienation to occur.

LEO You may be concerned about money — lack or loss of it, loss of expectations or a job, of not receiving your share in a family legacy or will, or not knowing how to pay a bill or how to put enough away to purchase something important. You hide away in your home often, then enfolded in shadows, step out into the world while hiding possible grief. Take Ignatia Amara if grief persists. Death could be on your mind. Death is liberation. You are sensitive. Take care to protect yourself.

Stand in the double pyramid.

TAURUS Important tasks, set aside for months, now need assessing, doing, completing. These include deep cleaning, eliminating what is no longer needed, home repairs, ordering supplies, licensing, commitments, and something concerning marriage. Deep emotions emerge resulting from the Scorpio tests. They occur in your relationships.

Partnerships need listening to and working through issues.

Sit down together and talk with each other. From heart to heart.

VIRGO A quiet, poised, calm frame of mind is what you need and with the Jupiter retro in Gemini and Scorpio Sun influencing communication, it is interesting you may be talking more. I know that sounds like a paradox. Careful that you don’t allow the critical nature of Mercury, Virgo, and Scorpio to take hold. Attempt to pass the Nine Tests with equanimity. Then assist others by holding the light of the Soul, your Soul, and the Soul of humanity within your heart. Always use your imagination. That is our spiritual creative tool.

GEMINI The nine tests reveal themselves in your day to day life and then dip into your creativity and play.

Observe how this manifests, shifting back and forth, here and there. Simultaneously, assist others as their needs present themselves, fulfill more tasks at home, maintain better health, volunteer, floss more carefully, act as if you are beloved, and communicate with love as if the creation of the world depends upon it. It does.

LIBRA It’s good to review all monetary interactions — bills, loans and tithes — in order to carefully assess finances for the next three months. This is a good exercise to do several times a year. You’ll discover actually that life is generous. In turn, you are to be generous, too. Give to (tithe) those in need. Do this scientifically. A bit each month. Financial differences could occur between friends, family and in relationships. Stand your ground, explain if needed. Then share more.

CANCER You might feel restricted, lost, alone and wandering far away from others, especially home and family. You may feel you are stretched in four directions, experiencing a loss of nurturance, financial fears, and unusual dreams intruding into reality. “What’s truth and what’s reality?” you ask. So this is all about the tests and you remember to step back and observe. And to envision more of a golden age.

SCORPIO The tests for you center on the quality and nature and realization of your self-identity. You are to observe through the lens of who you think you are, who you used to be, who you want to be and who you really are now and in the future. All this takes time. This is not to be confusing. It’s to be clarifying, especially since the tests are made especially for Scorpios.

Why? Because Scorpio is the sign of discipleship. Watch your communication, of course. You know why, don’t you?

•••

SAGITTARIUS How you observe and tend to the Nine Tests will determine what your next goals will be. So tend carefully to the physical, emotional and lower mental tests as they appear. Be observant so you can recognize them. They will appear even in dreams, at odd times day or night, when you’re about to fall asleep and in between thoughts, ideas and words on a page.

Information is available through this testing experience. Keep your eyes wide open. Not eyes wide shut.

CAPRICORN Dearest Capricorn, always moving upward and onward. The tests, none of which limit you, will occur in the groups you interact with. They will be such that at first you won’t understand, but then through interactions, a transformation occurs within you. What, the nine tests will ask — what are your most important hopes, wishes and dreams for the future? Write down on a notecard, what I want the most and hold it close to your heart. You lead everyone to their destined purpose and goals.

AQUARIUS Your work life is changing. If you are a writer, photographer, or artist the nine tests will emerge in your work world and present challenges. Embrace them. They are teachings. How to use the tests is to portray the hidden realities of life through the medium of your art. Make wherever you are feel like home. Host a home party. Use your artforms to write about, describe, and film what home means to you. This will anchor others into their own foundational sense of being.

PISCES The world is quietly listening to you, your words, writings, teachings, ways of being. Make sure what you say contains words concerning beauty and the beloved. Write and speak as if you hold the world in your hands. Any and all movements you make, shift the reality and focus to the needs of humanity. What am I saying? That every action you make affects the outcome of all of humanity and also of all kingdoms. You are like a butterfly in the meadows.

The fluttering and lifting of its wings, lifts the world to new heights. This is your power.

Risa D’Angeles • www.nightlightnews.org • risagoodwill@gmail.com 26 / November 15th 2024 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“Soulmates” from page 24 I asked Joyce out, a bit awkwardly I remember, for the following Friday night.

She said yes, and inwardly I rejoiced. So far, so good.

I took her to see the movie, Tom Jones. I actually have no memory of what the movie was about. I felt so attracted to this girl, Joyce. Sitting next to her in the movie theater, all I wanted to do was hold her hand. I gingerly reached my hand toward hers. When it touched her hand, she made my life so much better by opening her hand and taking mine.

A joy filled my heart, just holding her hand for the rest of the movie, whatever it was about.

Then we walked up the hill to the campus in a frigid early December Catskill Mountain’s evening. I wanted to continue holding her hand forever, but it was just too cold. We needed our hands in our own pockets to keep them warm.

We approached Joyce’s dorm, Dewer Hall. There was a 10 o’clock curfew and it was approaching that time. Other couples were converging on the dorm at the same time from their dates. We squeezed into the small entry room minutes before 10. The other couples were saying good-bye to one another. A small window framed the face of ancient Mrs. Wilcox, the dorm mother, who was probably in her 60s. She watched with hawk-like eyes to make sure all the couples were behaving appropriately.

With so little time, all I could do was say good-bye to Joyce with the briefest of kisses. I leaned forward and felt my lips lightly touch hers. It wasn’t passionate. Mrs. Wilcox, if she saw it, which she probably did, would have fully approved. What she didn’t see —-what she could never see —-was the transmission of energy between two souls at the speed of light.

One small kiss, but a powerful recognition of something very big, a love we did not yet realize but could feel clearly in that touch of lips.

We were lost and overwhelmed in that eternal moment, when the door suddenly opened and elderly hands started pulling Joyce away from me and into the dorm.

I remember floating slightly above the frozen ground rather than walking back to my dorm. I had kissed a few girls before Joyce, but this was something else entirely.

It was like waking up from an 18-year dream sleep. Neither of us had developed the framework for understanding what had happened in that moment. Our minds were both blown, but our hearts were starting to awaken. n ••• Joyce & Barry Vissell, a nurse/therapist and psychiatrist couple since 1964, are counselors in Aptos who are passionate about conscious relationship and personalspiritual growth. They are the authors of 10 books and a free audio album of sacred songs and chants. Visit their web site at SharedHeart.org.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Boardwalk Settles Lawsuit With Employees

T

$5.9 Million for Five Years of Underpayments

he Santa Cruz Seaside Company, owner and operator of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, will pay $5.9 million to settle a class-action lawsuit alleging employees were cheated out of overtime pay and subjected to violations of California labor law, including being denied breaks.

“Trekking” from page 23 Give yourself time. Before you get ready for your trek through the terminal, make sure time is on your side. If you’re flying out of Dallas or one of the big airports in the Kuru survey, give yourself a minimum of an hour to get to your gate.

Get help. If you’re a slow walker or have an injury or disability, don’t hesitate to ask your airline or the airport for help. They have disability services that provide rides to help you avoid a lengthy walk. Note: You may need to contact your airline in advance to reserve a wheelchair.

But the best advice I’ve ever heard is to avoid the walk entirely. Book a nonstop flight to avoid transiting through Dallas or Denver. That way, you only have to worry about hiking to, and from, your arrival and departure gates once each.

If you have to book a connecting flight, make sure you have enough time to get to your next gate without running. And that’s particularly important during the winter travel season in the Northern Hemisphere, when everyone is weighed down with heavy winter clothing. It’s just not worth the trouble.

“State Results” from page 12 In the 18th Congressional District, which includes San Benito County and parts of Santa Clara County, Monterey County, and Santa

“County Investments” from page 20 Previously there was an annual application process, and a steady stream of nonprofit leaders would show up at the Board of Supervisors meeting to make their case for funding for their operation.

That was a time-consuming process, and then-Supervisor Ryan Coonerty championed a different approach with more focus on results, addressing targeted needs and multiyear awards.

This time, in response to feedback, three public hearings were held as well as reviews, leading to three priority areas.

As part of the settlement agreement, preliminarily approved by the court in September, the Seaside Company officially denied any wrongdoing.

A former employee, Serena Sanford, filed the lawsuit in July 2023 after working as

a seasonal food-service staff member at the boardwalk from August 2016 to December 2021, according to court documents.

In the class-action lawsuit, Sanford accused the Seaside Company of failing to pay overtime wages, failing to provide meal

The Upside

“Graham Hill Housing” from page 25

In the end, walking long distances is part of travel, and maybe these sprawling airport terminals are doing many of us a favor. I mean, what else are we going to do, sit at home and watch reruns of our favorite travel show? Nah. Better to get out there and get some exercise “We embrace the hike to the gate as good exercise on a travel day,” says Laurel Barton, a frequent traveler and guidebook author from Forest Grove, Ore. She often flies through London’s massive Heathrow airport, and there’s a tunnel to the C Gates at Terminal 5 that takes about 20 minutes to walk.

“We skip the travelators and hoof it willingly,” she says. “But then, we write hiking guidebooks.” n ••• Christopher Elliott is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded Elliott Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes Elliott Confidential, a travel newsletter, and the Elliott Report, a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can email him at chris@elliott.org. Illustration by Aren Elliott. Graphic Credit: Kuru Footwear.

Cruz County, Democrat Zoe Lofgren has 12,255 votes to 5,064 for Republican Peter Hernandez.

In the race for U.S. Senate, Democrat Adam Schiff has 91,234 to 28,630 for Republican Steve Garvey.

The supervisors added Healthy Environments as a priority.

In April, the county Board of Supervisors and Santa Cruz City Council directed staff to set aside $1 million to focus on shelter services across the county, and $500,000 in homeless prevention funds focused on South County.

The recommended awards represent the highest-ranked applications in each priority area as scored by a review panel. n ••• For more information visit: https:// www.santacruzhumanservices.org/Home/ FundingOpportunities/COREInvestments

and rest breaks and failing to provide timely payment of wages upon termination of employment, among other “unfair business practices.”

No other employees who were alleged to have been affected by what Sanford alleges were specifically named in the lawsuit. n

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

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

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

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

If the developer completes an environmental review, that document would be posted on the website of the planning department, renamed Community Development and Infrastructure at https://cdi. santacruzcountyca.gov/UPC/GetInvolved/ PublicMeetingsHearings.aspx The project goes to the County Planning Commission, which makes a recommendation to the County Board of Supervisors, which holds a public hearing. n

In the race for president, Democrats Kamala Harris and Tim Walz have 93,226 to 25,881 for Republicans Donald Trump and JD Vance, who won the popular vote nationally and 312 votes from 31 states in the Electoral College to 226 for their opponents.

In the nonpartisan races, Watsonville City Council incumbent Jimmy Dutra has 1,121 votes to 914 for challenger Trina Coffman-Gomez.

For two seats on the Capitola City Council, newcomer Gerry Jensen has 2,644 and newcomer Melinda Orbach has 2,208, ahead of incumbent Margaux Morgan with 1,493 and newcomer Enrique Dolmo Jr with 1,340.

Measure Z, the city of Santa Cruz tax on sugar-sweetened beverages, which needs a majority to pass, has13,899 yes — 51.6% — to 13,037 no 48.4%. More than 1,000 people did not vote. n

“Freedom Lake” from page 19 Hurley continued: “Through this collaborative effort, we are not only improving the lake’s habitat but also providing the community with a great example of impactful restoration work.”

Habitat and biotic studies are set to commence in 2025 to assess the current

biodiversity of Freedom Lake and inform strategies for its total renovation.

By understanding the existing ecological conditions, the team will be better equipped to implement restoration techniques that support the growth of native species and enhance the overall health of the lake water. n For information visit the Santa Cruz County Parks website at www.scparks.com

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2024 / 27

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS

Have a virtual or live event you want to promote?

E-mail info (no PDFs please) to info@cyber-times.com

If conditions are not conducive for burning, burns will be rescheduled, State Parks said. Some trails may be closed temporarily for public safety. These may include portions of the Chinquapin Trail, Long Meadow Trail and Englesman Loop Trail.

Burns are permitted, planned, and coordinated with the Monterey Bay Air Quality Management District to minimize smoke impacts to neighboring communities. If you see or smell smoke, officials recommend you avoid strenuous outdoor activity and remain indoors. These precautions are especially important for children, the elderly, and people with respiratory and heart conditions.

PVUSD EVENTS “Fentanyl High”: Wednesday Nov. 20, 6–8 p.m. — For beginning of the month, due the 15th • For mid-month, due the 1st Aptos High Hosts this event featuring a film by a recent Los Gatos graduate about fentanyl use among youth, followed by a panel discussion on community resources. Aptos Youth Chess Club, 3:30-4:30 pm weekly Register at https://beyondliberty.as.me/schedule/3f76c386/ This free event aims to engage students and families Wednesdays ?appointment and inspire similar initiatives locally. Space is limited; First and Third Wednesdays: Pilates Classes: 12:30-1:30 register at https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/ahsp.m. (Bring your own yoga mat please) RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVES pvusd/fentanyl-high Programs are first come first serve, and beginner friendly.

Festive activities and busy calendars this time of year Gardenia Amor y Bienestar: Weekdays, 6 - 7 p.m., 85 Minecraft for ages 8-18, 3:30-5:30 pm can disrupt normal routines, leading to a drop in blood Nielson St, Watsonville — Members of PVUSD engaged Thursdays donation appointments. The American Red Cross CASTRO ADOBE STATE PARK RESTORED in promoting health and wellness, began this organization Tai Chi, 10-11 a.m. weekly encourages you to make donating blood a priority, Monthly Open House: Nov. 16, Dec. 8 for women a few years ago.

Mah Jongg 2-4 p.m. weekly especially type O. 10:30am- 3:30pm, 184 Old Adobe Rd, Watsonville They offer free, weekly classes — Tuesdays: Bootcamp; READ Help for Kids 3-5 p.m. weekly by appointment.

To celebrate 30 years of “Friends,” all who give Nov. Thanks to Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks, the historic Thursdays: Boxing; Fridays: Zumba. Join them when you can. Ages 6 to 18 with credentialed teachers. Email elibrary@ 18-Dec. 8 will receive two pairs of Friends + Red Cross Castro Adobe has been restored and enriched with many santacruzpl.org socks, while supplies last, in partnership with Warner Bros. new multimedia exhibits.

CLOTHING DRIVE First Thursdays: Friends of Aptos Library Meeting, 5-6 p.m. Discovery Global Consumer Products. Keep a pair and gift This two-story adobe is a prime example of rancho The Salvation Army is collecting new jackets, sweaters, Second Thursdays: Book Discussions, 1-2:30 p.m. online a pair! Details: RedCrossBlood.org/Friends. haciendas in the Monterey Bay area. small blankets and underwear for the unhoused comand in-person. Register at https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/ Book a donation appointment with the Red Cross Blood Come view unearthed artifacts, enjoy the Fandango munity. Also needed: new socks and rain ponchos. event/11782362 Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED lessons, and learn about the vaquero culture.

The greatest need is for men’s clothes. The most popular Third Thursdays: Bring Your Own Story to Share, 11 a.m. CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Admission is free. Carpooling advised due to limited parking. sizes are large and XL. – 12:30 p.m., People bring whatever book they’re reading Santa Cruz Donations can be left at 214 Union St., Watsonville. (nothing assigned) and share with the group. All welcome. Nov. 23: 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Hotel Paradox, 611 KING TIDES For questions, call 724-3922 or email Daniel.villamar@usw.

Join the Facebook group “Aptos Book Club” for updates.

Ocean St. The California King Tides are arriving early this season!

Salvationararmy.org Fridays Nov. 26: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ of Mark your calendar for Nov. 15-17 and Dec. 13-15.

Third Fridays: Bring Your Own Book Discussion, 11 a.m. Latter-day Saints, 220 Elk St. King tides occur when the highest and lowest tides hit NAMI FAMILY SUPPORT GROUPS ON ZOOM – 12:30 p.m.

Scotts Valley our shores and create an even more dramatic coastline.

NAMI Family Support Group is a support group for ••• Nov. 16: 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m., St. Philip’s Episcopal At high tide, the powerful waves often crash against loved ones of those who have experienced symptoms Nov. 22, 2-2:30 p.m.: Mar Vista Elementary Music Church, 5271 Scotts Valley Drive seawalls and extend beyond their usual borders. Extreme of a mental health condition. Gain insight from the Club Concert — Bring the whole family and show your Watsonville low tides expose rarely seen tide pools and allow miles of challenges and successes of others facing similar support for these talented young performers. Whether Nov. 22: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Community Health Trust of beach walking. experiences. you’re a seasoned music enthusiast or simply looking for a Pajaro Valley, 85 Nielson St. By sharing your experiences in a safe setting, you fun-filled afternoon, this event is sure to delight audiences Nov. 29: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Community Health Trust of VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR HOMELESS COUNT can gain hope and develop supportive relationships. of all ages.

Pajaro Valley, 85 Nielson St. The next annual Point-in-Time Count is scheduled for This group allows your voice to be heard and provides Thursday, Jan. 30. an opportunity for your personal needs to be met. It GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP WITH HORSES PRESCRIBED BURN AT WILDER RANCH STATE PARK This count is an estimate of the number of people encourages empathy, productive discussion and a sense In November and December, Beyond Liberty & Pregnant Starting Nov. 11, California State Parks plans to conduct experiencing homelessness on a single day in Santa Cruz of community. You’ll benefit from other’s experiences, Mare Rescue offer the Equine Guided Grief Support Group, prescribed burns of 400 acres of grasslands at Wilder County. discover your inner strength and empower yourself by a welcoming space in La Selva Beach, for Ranch State Park for two weeks between 10 a.m. and 5 In 2024, the number of people experiencing homesharing your own experiences in a non-judgmental space. anyone experiencing loss. p.m. Monitoring and patrol will take place and extend into lessness increased slightly, up 2.6% to 1,850.

NAMI’s support groups follow a structured model, The gatherings are Saturdays, Nov. the evening when required.

The count is a requirement to receive federal homeless ensuring everyone has an opportunity to be heard and to 30, Dec. 14 and Dec. 21 from 10 a.m.

People around the Monterey Bay area, and those assistance funds and is used to support strategic deciget what they need. to noon. driving on Highway 1, may see smoke on the day of sions about programs.

• Free to participants • Drop-in friendly Spend time with horses in a calm these burns, which aim to manage vegetation, reduce If you are interested in volunteering, attend at least • Designed for loved ones of people with mental health environment where you can share your feelings or simply hazardous fuels and improve wildlife habitat. Burning one of the trainings. If you are interested in receiving conditions reflect quietly. No prior experience with horses is removes flammable plants and restores essential meeting reminders, sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ • Led by family members of people with mental health needed. nutrients to the soil with the hope of reducing catasantacruzcounty/2025-pit-count conditions Beyond Liberty is a nonprofit horse retirement strophic wildfires.

Most training is via zoom: • 90 minutes • Confidential and equine education center offering programs All burning is dependent on weather and air quality Thursday, Nov. 21 | 12:00 – 1:30pm | Location TBD • No specific medical therapy or treatment is endorsed that bring more people into the world of horses. conditions favorable for smoke dispersal.

Thursday, Dec. 19 | 12:00 – 1:30pm | Via Zoom There are five different Family Support Groups: ZoomGov Meeting, https://santacruzcounty-us.zoomgov. for loved ones of adults, loved ones of young adults, GIVING TUESDAY com/j/1619189419?pwd=yDEh1BcXCU0vp8xpcrHioJ2B parents and caregivers of youth, and Spanish qPkSBg.1 speakers.

Tuesday December 3 Meeting ID: 161 918 9419 | Passcode: 583683 Sign up at https://www.namiscc.org/nami-familyWhat if we told you, you are changing the world right Friday, Jan. 24 | 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. | Via zoom and support-groups.html in-person (location TBD) Questions? Email sophia@namiscc.org, or call (831)-824-0406. now? Would you believe it?

A better future is being built by all of us right now, in ZoomGov Meeting, https://santacruzcounty-us.zoomgov. the billions of small actions we take each day. Acts of com/j/1602531515?pwd=aL5C9nq0Kghdszw9a5TyhZh APTOS LIBRARY ACTIVITIES care, love, and undernBpzmAB.1 Mon-Thur: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. • Fri-Sat: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Closed standing extend outward, Meeting ID: 160 253 1515 | Passcode: 986265 Sunday • 7695 Soquel Drive, Aptos like the threads of a Do you have lived experience of homelessness? There is Sundays beautiful tapestry. Whether a need for those who would like to be a peer guide during First Sunday: ACT Advisory Council of Teens: 11 am to it’s offering a kind smile, a helping hand, or an hour the Count.

1 pm of your time — these acts have a way of rippling out, If you are interested, add your email to the list at https://tinyurl.

Mondays com/PIT-count-peer-guide.

Bridge Club, 10:30-noon, partnership with County Parks, becoming part of something much greater.

Giving Tuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: except for Monday holidays a day that encourages people to do good. Since then, it has grown into a year-round global movement that inspires COUNTY FAIR BOARD MEETINGS Writers Workshop, 1-3 p.m. 2nd & 4th Mondays hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity.

The Santa Cruz County Fair Board will meet each month Tech Help in person, 1-3 p.m. weekly. Make an Join the movement and give, whether it’s your time, a donation, or the power of your voice in your local comin 2024 except September and November. appointment (831-427-7713) munity.

Remaining dateis Dec. 3.

First Monday: SciFi Flicks, 6-8 p.m. Snacks provided.

Every act of generosity counts and everyone has something to contribute toward building the better world we all There is no meeting in November.

Scheduled movies for 2024: want to live in.

Meetings typically begin at 1:30 p.m. on the fourth November: Everything Everywhere All At Once You could organize a generosity scavenger hunt, take over a busy street corner for a day to raise money for local Tuesday in the Heritage Building at the fairgrounds, 2601 December: Nightmare Before Christmas nonprofits, or organize a compassion tour for kids ages 8-14 to introduce them to nonprofits making a difference.

East Lake Blvd., Watsonville.

Tuesdays Visit www.Givingtuesday.org for more information.

For agendas, posted 10 days in advance, see santacruzcountyfair.com Storytime for ages 3-5, 11-11:30 am weekly 28 / November 15th 2024 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Saturday November 16 Sunday November 17

ONGOING EVENTS Nov. 17 through Dec. 14 ART EXHIBIT AT THE UGLY MUG Open Daily | 4640 Soquel Drive, Soquel | Hours: 6:30-4:30 p.m.

The Ugly Mug will feature an art exhibit by the talented students of the Monterey Bay Horsemanship and Therapeutic Center in La Selva Beach.

This is the third annual exhibit for the center, which serves people with disabilities including autism.

Mondays BRIDGE CLUB 10:30 a.m.-Noon, 7695 Soquel Dr, Aptos, CA 95003 The Aptos Branch Library will host Bridge Club sessions on Mondays (except holidays).

Bridge Club is a partnership between Santa Cruz County Parks and Santa Cruz Public Libraries.

Register at scparks.com or in-person the day of the event.

Last Wednesdays of the Month PV HEALTH CARE DISTRICT BOARD MEETINGS 6 p.m., Watsonville Community Hospital, 85 Nielson St. Pajaro Valley Health Care District Board, which oversees Watsonville Community Hospital, is holding monthly meetings on the last Wednesday of each month through 2024, except Nov. 20 and Dec. 18 due to the holidays.

Last Wednesdays of the Month PARENT/CAREGIVER MENTAL HEALTH SEMINARS 5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Online Meeting Dr. Ramona Friedman of the Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health in Soquel will be hosting a free Parent Drop-in Zoom session. Parents and caregivers are invited to log on and ask questions to Dr. Friedman about youth mental health issues, challenges, and ideas.

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

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

For more info, visit https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/groups/ parent-drop-in-soquel-ca/247794 Third Thursdays SIP AND STROLL 6-9 p.m. (check-in starts at 5 p.m.), Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos Come to the Seacliff Inn: Tapestry Collection by Hilton, for a Sip & Stroll event where local artists to show and sell their works. Wines are 30% off, and the featured winery will offer tastings of three varietals for $10 per person.

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wine30-sip-strolltickets-668910307737

VILLAGE AT POINT ALONES: CHINESE HISTORY Thursday November 21

5:30-7:30 p.m., Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, 165 Forest Ave. The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History will share a new documentary about the Chinese fishing villages of Monterey Bay. Made by Ibis Education & Media of Felton, the film uses historical records and photos from Museum and the City of Monterey with stories told by descendants and scholars to delve into the history of the village and the residents’ impact on Monterey and California’s fishing industries.

The Village at Point Alones was established in the 1850s by Chinese settlers, who built homes and began a lucrative fishing business and eventually the beginnings of the canning industry. Following local backlash and hindering of their rights by the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, the residents pivoted from fishing during the day to fishing at night for squid with lanterns, which proved commercially successful. Drying squid in the open air, however, created a stench, upsetting downwind neighbors, who worried about property values.

The Chinese fishing village, with its wood shanties, experienced decades of fires until arson and looting in 1906 caused the Chinese to disperse.

The documentary tells this story from the start of the community to its destruction, bringing their stories up to the present day with dissolution of the controversial Feast of Lanterns parade, official apology by the City of Pacific Grove, and the annual Walk of Remembrance instituted by village descendant Gerry Low-Sabado.

With educators at Monterey Waterkeeper and village descendant and storyteller Bowen Lyam Lee, the museum has created curriculum to bring stories of the fishing village to classrooms. Classroom kits can be borrowed for free.

To learn more, see the book “Chinese Gold” by historian Sandy Lydon.

••• RSVP at: https://45970.blackbaudhosting.com/45970/Free-Screening-Montereys-Chinese-Fishing-Village New members to club meetings will receive a complimentary plant. All are welcome!

For information, contact Mary at (831) 229-3289 or e-mail crossmarylouise@gmail.com.

Visit mbsucculent.org for more information.

DATED EVENTS Friday November 15 Saturday November 16

will discuss the state of the local news industry and the reasons newspapers are disappearing nationwide, as well as how independent journalism plays a crucial role in our community.

The public is invited to this AAUW meeting. The event is free.

ASSEMBLYMEMBER GAIL PELLERIN AT TOWN HALL 1 – 3:00 p.m., Felton Community Hall, 6191 Highway 9 The 23rd San Lorenzo Valley Environmental Town Hall, sponsored by the Valley Women’s Club of SLV Environmental Committee, will take place at Felton Community Hall, featuring Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) and a Q&A. Learn about pressing concerns, foster collaboration, and spark positive environmental transformations.

HOLIDAY ART FESTIVAL 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Aromas Grange, 400 Rose Ave. Crafters and artists will offer their work to the public at the Holiday Art Festival at the Aromas Grange.

This wonderful event has become a tradition in the quaint and lovely village of Aromas, located 10 miles south of Watsonville. The Aromas Grange is over 100 years old and beautifully refurbished.

Artisans will display their handmade wares, such as paintings, stained glass, photography, etchings, carved and turned wood items, jewelry, succulents, and so much more.

As you stroll the aisles, relax and enjoy Jesse Martinez’s wonderful songs. Inhale aromas from the hot and cold foods sold from the kitchen. Sip a cup of cider and relax at one of the tables by the fireplace, or take a free class from one of the crafters.

Over two dozen handmade items will be raffled off.

The drawing is Sunday afternoon. It’s time to finish that Christmas list while you chat with serious artists who love to spread the joy of sharing lovely art pieces.

Tuesday November 19 WATSONVILLE SOROPTIMISTS MEETING Noon, Ella’s at the Airport, 100 Aviation Way, Watsonville Soroptimist International of Watsonville will hold its next meeting at Ella’s at the Airport.

After a brief business meeting, speaker Eva Jones, founder of Magical Horsemanship, will talk about how she finds balance and healing working with her horses.

Learn how Soroptimists provide those services through our Live Your Dream financial awards programs and the Dream It, Be It middle and high school girls careerorientation program.

Women in the community are invited to join in. To RSVP, contact Renee Mello at 831-840-2479.

Watsonville Soroptimists were recognized by the Soroptimist International of the Americas’ Federation for participation in the Live Your Dream, Dream It, Be It and “Big Goal” programs.

Soroptimist International of Watsonville is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to education and training to achieve economic empowerment.

For information, email siwatsonville@soroptimist.net.

Wednesday November 20

FENTANYL HIGH DOCUMENTARY SCREENING 6-8 p.m., Aptos High School Performing Arts Center, 100 Mariner GOAT HILL FAIR ANTIQUE & VINTAGE SHOW Way, Aptos Fri: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. | Sat. 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Santa Cruz County Fridays (except First Friday of the Month) Kyle Santoro’s documentary, “Fentanyl High,” will be Fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville shown at Aptos High School Performing Arts Center with LA SELVA BEACH LIBRARY BRIDGE GROUP Enjoy the semi-annual Goat Hill Fair Antique & Vintage LA SELVA BEACH HOLIDAY FAIR an audience Q&A to follow.

10:30-Noon, La Selva Beach Public Library, 316 Estrella Ave. Show, presented by the Agricultural History Center, at There will be narcan (the antidote) and resources Come for bridge from 10:30 to noon at the La Selva 10 a.m.-4 p.m., La Selva Beach Clubhouse and Lawn, 314 the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds. available plus food.

Beach library.

Estrella Ave. Juried vendors bring the very best in antiques and This event is in partnership with Watsonville Community Call La Selva Library to reserve your seat: 831-427-7710.

Find all of your holiday needs at the La Selva Beach beautifully display their wares. Expect a variety of Holiday Fair. Over 50 arts and crafts vendors will showcase Hospital, SafeRx Santa Cruz County, Santa Cruz Comyummy food and beverage choices. Relax and enjoy Every Third Sunday their work inside the Clubhouse and on the outdoor lawn. munity Health, Encompass Community Services, Santa your food to refuel for more shopping!

Cruz County Office of Education, Janus, Salud Para la MONTEREY BAY AREA CACTUS AND SUCCULENT SOCIETY Handcrafted jewelry, art, pottery, books, bags, olive oil Parking is free and plentiful. Handicap parking is Gente, and Santa Cruz County Public Health. and vinegars, candles, soaps, plants, home decor and 12:00 p.m., Corralitos Grange Hall #487, 165 Little Corral Way, located near the entrance. $15 two-day admission; more will be available.

Watsonville $10 Saturday only; $30 Early Goat with advance entry Thursday November 21 The event will feature a used book sale, fresh baked The nonprofit Monterey Bay Area Cactus and Succulent 8-10 a.m. Friday.

HOLIDAY MIXER goods and drinks and a raffle. Proceeds benefit the Society meets every third Sunday at Corralitos Grange Hall. Tickets at goathillfair.com 5-7 p.m., Rootstock Artisan Collective, 861 41st Ave Library’s teen programs. Food trucks Tacos el Jesse and The society contributes to the study and cultivation Rootstock Artisan Collective in Pleasure Point will host S&B Burgers will be on site. of succulents, cacti and other drought-tolerant plants.

Saturday November 16 a Holiday Mixer with the Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Admission to the one-day event is free!

Monthly meetings include displays of plants and plant KARA GUZMAN SPEAKS ON LOCAL NEWS INDUSTRY The event is sponsored by the La Selva Beach Improvement Commerce 5-7 pm Thursday, Nov 21. raffles. Meetings are on the third Sunday of each Association and the Friends of the La Selva Beach Library. month with the exception of the Spring and Fall Show 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Aptos Library, 7695 Soquel Dr. “Calendar” page 31 Kara Meyberg Guzman, CEO and co-founder of Santa Cruz Local For more information contact: booksandbrewsLSB@gmail.com and Sales months (announced on the website).

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2024 / 29

FEATURED COLUMNIST

More Reasons to Shop at Local Businesses This Holiday Season

By Zach Friend, Supervisor, Second District

T

he holiday season is traditionally one of the largest sales times for many retailers. Over the last few years local businesses have been facing additional pressures with rising prices and, in particular, competition from online retailers.

In Aptos and throughout our community we have a unique opportunity to show support for our small, locally-owned businesses as they compete with national online retailers - especially during the holiday season.

In Santa Cruz County, over 80% of local businesses have fewer than 10 employees.

Many in the mid and south county work for locally-owned businesses and our local economy is dependent upon a robust small business sector.

Some of the local businesses offer online ordering (with same day pick-up) and there are many options (from traditional retail items, to bakery items to hardware) that you can order locally online and pick up straight from the local business.

Many in our area are working with local Chambers of Commerce to advertise extended holiday specials that extend beyond the traditional Black Friday or Small Business Saturday (which is Saturday, Nov. 30 this year) timeframes.

For example, the Aptos Chamber has an annual holiday market and tree lighting event on Saturday Dec. 7 from 1-4 pm in the Aptos Village Green with many local businesses participating while the Capitola-Soquel Chamber has a holiday mixer (5-7 pm Nov. 21 at Rootstock Collective) and additional events supporting local businesses -- which can be found on their website.

According to an analysis by the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, “locally owned businesses play a central role in healthy communities and are among the best engines that cities and towns have for advancing economic opportunity and building resilient places.”

Specifically, they note work from an economist at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta that showed that counties with larger shares of local small businesses outperform their peers

on three critical economic indicators: they have stronger per capita income growth, faster employment growth and lower poverty rates.

Additionally, an analysis from the Government Finance Review found that smaller-local businesses (versus box stores) provide more tax revenue on the aggregate while costing less in government services.

We have many locally-owned businesses that provide a variety of options for our holiday shopping including kid’s stores, restaurant gift certificates, great coffee shops, clothing stores, jewelers, locally-owned hotel getaway options and more.

Some of these small businesses have been recognized nationally for their unique options and all of these businesses employ

local residents and many are owned by residents right here in the mid and south county.

A number of these businesses are now offering shipping options to you or to those you are purchasing gifts for to save you a trip this holiday season.

If you’d like additional information, the Aptos Chamber of Commerce has a business directory and holiday specials at www.aptos chamber.com or the Capitola/Soquel Chamber at www.capitolachamber.com and the Pajaro Valley Chamber at www.pajarovalleychamber.com. n ••• As always, I appreciate hearing from you.

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

COMMUNITY NEWS

S

Santa Cruz Gives: 63 Local Nonprofits

anta Cruz Gives, a countywide crowdfunding holiday campaign in its ninth season, will raise funds for 63 local nonprofits from Nov. 20 until midnight Dec. 31.

Santa Cruz Gives has become the largest fundraising campaign in Santa Cruz County supporting local nonprofits — raising more than $5 million since it began in 2015, with $2.2 million given in the past two years.

At SantaCruzGives.org, donors browse profile pages to learn about each nonprofit’s mission and “Big Idea” for 2025, a project to be funded with donations, then use a shopping cart to give. Minimum donation: $5.

Nonprofits cover the county geographically and represent a variety of needs: Youth, seniors, animals, environment, education, health and wellness, food and nutrition, housing and homelessness, the arts, veterans, families, LGBTQIA+, and the disabled.

The selected nonprofits will receive individually donated funds, matching funds provided by sponsors, and be eligible for three $1,000 awards: Most donors overall, most increased donations from previous year, and most successful first- time participant.

30 / November 15th 2024 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

A committee with diverse nonprofit experience reviewed chose 63 from those that applied. Participation is limited so each nonprofit has potential to raise sufficient funds for staff time spent on the campaign. The public exposure that nonprofits gain through the Santa Cruz Gives campaign is beyond what any could achieve on their own.

Participants in Santa Cruz Gives report a majority of donors are new donors as well as younger.

Presenting sponsors are Good Times and the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County. Additional sponsors include: Community Foundation Santa Cruz County; Driscoll’s, Inc., Monterey Peninsula Foundation, 1440 Foundation, and The Applewood Fund and The Joe Collins Fund at Community Foundation Santa Cruz County.

Other sponsors are Santa Cruz County Bank, Wynn Capital Management, The Pajaronian, and Press Banner. n ••• See www.SantaCruzGives.org

We provide local –

News ... Sports ... Current Events ... because it matters to you!

SCCAS Featured Pet

T

Snacks For Your Pleasure

crossword on 25 »

his week our Pets of the Week are Flaky (#A312959) and Skittles (#A312960), a bonded pair of indoor-only kitties looking for their forever home. They can be a bit shy at first, but once they warm up, they are the cuddliest, most playful duo you’ll ever meet.

Flaky is the adventurous one. She loves exploring every nook and cranny and is always up for playing. Skittles is a bit more laid-back, but she loves a good nap in a sunbeam.

They’re a package deal, and we’re hoping to find a family who will love them both. Skittles is currently being treated for an eye issue, but with the right care, she should be just fine. Before you adopt them, you’ll get to chat with a member of our medical team to learn more about Skittles’ care and to see if these kitties the right fit for you.

Ready to meet us? These kittens can’t wait to meet their new family! n ••• The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is full of adoptable animals. Fostering animals is an awesome way to improve a Shelter animal’s life and fill your home with love and fun! If you are interested in fostering any kind of animal please email jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us. You can also Follow SCCAS on Instagram and/or Facebook to stay up-to-date on shelter news and where to find adoptable pets around town at breweries, stores and events. All adoptions are first come, first served.

••• Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s full-service, open-admission shelter 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 • Hours: Daily 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

580 Airport Blvd., Watsonville, 95076 • Hours: Tues.-Sat. 9:30 a.m. – noon; 1–5 p.m. (Closed Sun/Mon) Website: www.scanimalshelter.org SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182 • After Hours: jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us

Famous Buildings © Statepoint Media

“Calendar” from page 29 Rootstock Artisan Collective is a carefully crafted space showcasing the diverse talents of the local artist and maker community.

Featured are photographer Nicole Fischer, muralist Anastasiya Bachmanova, and jewelry designer Elena Kelly to name a few.

Enjoy beverages, light appetizers, shopping and raffle prizes, while connecting with business owners, entrepreneurs, professionals, and community members.

Networking + sipping + shopping + holiday fun!

See rootstockcollective.com or call (386) 956-5479

Saturday December 7 Sunday December 8

PARKSTORE HOLIDAY SALE 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Various locations Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks will host its annual ParkStore Holiday Sale at three locations this year: • Seacliff State Beach, 201 State Park Drive, Aptos • Natural Bridges State Beach, 2531 W. Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz • Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park, 144 School St., Santa Cruz “The Holiday Sale is a fun and meaningful way to show support for our local state parks and beaches,” Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks Executive Director Bonny Hawley Sunday November 24 said. “We’ll have a wide variety of park-themed gifts WHITE RABBIT FLEA MARKET available, including apparel, jewelry, books, toys, iconic 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Cruise Coffee, 246 Kings Village Road, SV Michael Schwab and more.”

Check out the White Rabbit Flea Market every fourth Friends members will receive 30% off on select Sunday, weather permitting, at Cruise Coffee. iconic Michael Schwab park illustrations on apparel, Up to 100 vendors, and everything you need — and plus jewelry, maps, nature guides, local history books, don’t need! educational toys and other gifts representing the natural New, used, vintage, collectibles, antiques, handmade … and cultural history of our parks. a little some-thing for everyone!

Look for hats, pins, stickers and key chains by popular https://www.collectivesocialclub.com artist Tim Ward, Socksmith socks, and silk scarves.

Non-members receive 20% off.

Thursday November 28 Proceeds benefit local state parks and beaches.

THANKSGIVING DINNER: TURKEY & ALL! Thursday December 12 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Veterans Memorial Building, 846 Front St., Santa Cruz APTOS CHAMBER FAREWELL TO ZACH FRIEND For more than 30 years, the veterans have hosted a 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Drive.

Thanksgiving meal at the Veterans Memorial Building Join the Aptos Chamber of Commerce for a lunch with in downtown Santa Cruz for those in our community County Supervisor Zach Friend at Seascape Golf Club to who are houseless or of very modest means. express gratitude for his years of hard work and warmly This tradition has endured through the good works welcome our newly elected supervisor! of the veterans themselves and those who support There will be time for questions and community updates. their local mission of serving the less fortunate.

Fee: $35. Reservations required; no walk-ins. Call (831) 688Veterans for Peace and the Friends of Thanksgiving 1467 or visit aptoschamber.com. announce that the Santa Cruz Community Thanksgiving Dinner will once again this year be hosted at Friday, December 13 the Veterans Memorial Building.

JAMES DURBIN JOINS WATSONVILLE BAND Everyone is invited to attend and enjoy a hot, 7:30 p.m., Mello Center, 250 E Beach St, Watsonville traditional meal of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes This year, musical sensation James Durbin, grandson and all the trimmings prepared by local chefs. of Watsonville Community Band members Dr. James The hall will once again be decorated by local Girl (Doc) Settle and Shirley Settle, will be the featured soloist Scouts and music will be provided by local artists. Join us for a day of true community as we eat, share stories for a holiday concert at the Henry J. Mello Center for the Performing Arts in Watsonville. The Youth Band will and experiences and celebrate the holiday spirit.

Your generous donation will help turn a time of want perform at 7 p.m. Band conductor is Brad Gronroos, a 1972 Watsonville High alum. and need into a celebration of joy and generosity.

The Band will also perform Saturday, Dec. 14, at The goal is $3,000. To give, visit https://gofund.

Peace United Church, 900 High St. Santa Cruz and me/09145d02 Sunday, Dec. 15, at Scotts Valley Performing Arts, 251 Happy Holidays to you and yours from the Veterans for Peace Kings Village Road. Both concerts start at 2 p.m. and the Friends of Thanksgiving.

Sunday December 15

Saturday November 30

HOLIDAY MARKET SURFIN’ SANTA 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Felton Covered Bridge, Graham Hill Rd. / Mt. 12 p.m. – 3 p.m., Capitola Beach | Capitola Village Hermon Rd. intersection Ho! Ho! Ho! Welcome Surfin’ Santa to the shores of Capitola Beach! Santa will be riding The Holiday Market on the Felton Covered Bridge is a festive annual event hosted by the San Lorenzo Valley the waves via Outrigger canoe, rain or shine, for his annual visit to Chamber of Commerce.

This magical event transforms the historic Felton Capitola Village, arriving at Noon to Covered Bridge and Park into a charming holiday setting visit with all the kids! featuring local artisans, food vendors, live music, and Once toweled off, he’ll settle in his beach chair for a nice, long visit. family-friendly activities.

The event spotlights local businesses, artists, and Be sure to bring your camera to capture Santa’s wave riding arrival, and your little one’s special visit with Santa. crafters making it a cherished tradition in the Santa Cruz Mountains and beyond.

It makes a great holiday photo!

Come celebrate the season! n

Saturday December 7

HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR AND TREE LIGHTING 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Aptos Village Green, 448 Granite Way (Behind New Leaf Market) Head to the Aptos Village Green to see local craft vendors, sip coffee or hot chocolate with your cookies and have a picture with Santa.

Enjoy music, performances, and of course the tree lighting ceremony! https://aptoschamber.com/event/aptos-village-square-tree-lighting/

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2024 / 31

Happy

THANKSGIVING Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude and I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to all of my family, friends and clients, past and present. I truly have been blessed meeting such amazing families, and working with so many exceptional home buyers and home sellers. I wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving, a joyous holiday season and a happy New Year!

Thank you Aptos and La Selva!

AMBER MELENUDO Top 1% in Santa Cruz County 831.566.2263 AmberMelenudo.com ambermelenudo@gmail.com DRE 01921098