AHS Sports Hall of Fame to Add a Dozen More: Coach Blankenship Among Those Honored Community News
7 Vistra to Permanently Close Moss 100 Battery Facility at Moss Landing Site: Company Says Cost of Recommissioning Outweighs Future Revenue Potential
8 Aptos High Theater Invites You to ‘High School Musical’, By Mikayla Newcombe, 11th-grade student at Aptos High
9 Registration Open for the ‘World’s Shortest Parade’ • Aromas Country Garden Tour 2026: May 9, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., By Joyce Oroz
10 Study Highlights Inequities Between PVUSD High Schools: Future of Aptos High’s 7th Period Appears Dim, By Jon Chown
13 RTC Approves New Rail Freight Operator: Maintenance of Track, Cost of Repairs, are Key Issues, By Jon Chown
14 Sweet Homes Project Developers Sue County: Claim Approval Has Been Delayed Unnecessarily, By Jon Chown • Lawsuit Challenges Santa Cruz County Approval of 57-Unit Housing Project: Dispute Centers on Timing of State Housing Compliance and Use of “Builder’s Remedy”, By Jon Chown
15 Keepers of the Light: Community Sets Up Fund to Support West Cliff Lighthouse
18 Citizen Heroes Recognized for Recent Ocean Rescue, By Jon Chown • County Parks Launch Poetry Scavenger Hunt
19 County Mum on Details of Fire Station Arson: Source Says Camera Was Not Installed in Apparatus Room, as Plans Required, By Jon Chown
20 Ripple Effect Art Festival to Spread Across County: Events and Exhibitions Begin April 16 • Ripple Effect Arts Festival to Reach Watsonville on April 18
21 PG&E to Conduct Helicopter Inspections of Gas Pipelines • Sex Offender Won’t Be Placed at Either Proposed Site, Says District Attorney, By Jon Chown
22 Sea Otter Classic Returns to Monterey Bay: One of the World’s Premier Cycling Events is Just an Hour Away
23 County Ranks in the Middle for Tax Refunds
24 Santa Cruz County to Celebrate Earth Day: Beach Cleanups, Restoration Efforts Highlight Activities • Watsonville Appoints Matt Orbach as Community Development Director • Mountain Community Theater to Hold Auditions for Fall Comedy ‘Rumors’
26 County Expands Free Well Water Testing Program to Include Additional Contaminants
27 PVWMA’s Proposed Budget is Deep in the Red: Costs Soar as Revenues Fall, By Jon Chown • Capitola to Celebrate New Park at Rispin Mansion
Community Calendar • Page 25 – Earth Day Activities
CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE AT: www.tpgonlinedaily.com mission statement
We at the Times Publishing Group, Inc. are dedicated to providing a voice for the individuals and organizations in our community while highlighting the outstanding accomplishments of our local businesses. We seek to promote healthy family values through our coverage of youth activities, school news, senior events, community groups and entertainment
COVER STORY
“Aptos High Hall of Fame” from page 1
The 12-member class will be inducted May 2 at Seascape Golf Course, where family members, former teammates, coaches and community supporters will gather to celebrate careers that span more than five decades of Aptos High athletics.
Leading the class is former football coach
Randy Blankenship, whose 319 career victories place him among the most successful high school football coaches in California history. Blankenship is just the 12th coach in the state to surpass the 300-win milestone, a benchmark reached by only a handful of
coaches over more than a century of organized high school football in California.
Blankenship’s tenure at Aptos helped define an era of sustained success for the Mariners. Over 14 seasons as head coach, his teams compiled 113 wins, captured eight Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League (SCCAL) championships and secured four Central Coast Section (CCS) titles. Along the way, his teams set numerous program records, including marks for most wins in a season, most shutouts, most playoff appearances, longest winning streak, and highest totals in both yards gained and points scored.
Perhaps most notably, Blankenship’s 2018 squad became the first team from Santa Cruz County to advance to the Northern California regional playoffs, marking a historic breakthrough for the program and the region.
Also among the most accomplished inductees is Jenna Belton, a standout volleyball player who graduated in 2014 and went on to achieve national success at the collegiate level. At Aptos, Belton was a twotime first-team All-SCCAL selection and was named the league’s Most Valuable Player in 2013 after leading the Mariners to two league championships.
Her success extended beyond indoor volleyball. In 2012, Belton teamed with partner Kristen Mead to win a U16 state championship in beach volleyball, a precursor to her collegiate career at the University of Southern
California. At USC, Belton was part of three NCAA championship-winning beach volleyball teams, helping establish the Trojans as a national powerhouse. During her four-year career, USC reached the semifinals or better each season, falling just once short of the title game in a semifinal loss to UCLA.
Lindsey Sotomayor , a 2011 graduate, earned recognition as one of the most versatile athletes in school history. A four-year starter in both basketball and softball, Sotomayor accumulated eight varsity letters and earned five first-team All-SCCAL
Composti
Michael Oppenheimer, Camisa Composti website
Michael Oppenheimer photography
Jenna Belton
COMMUNITY NEWS
selections — two in basketball and three in softball.
Her contributions were central to the softball team’s success, as she helped lead the Mariners to three league titles. On the basketball court, she finished her career as the program’s No. 4 all-time scorer. Her all-around performance across two sports earned her Aptos High’s Athlete of the Year honors for the 2010–11 school year.
Ben Dorfman, the 2015 Santa Cruz County Athlete of the Year, is also among the headliners. A dual-sport standout in basketball and volleyball, Dorfman led both teams to SCCAL championships during his senior year while guiding deep postseason runs that included appearances in CCS finals and the Northern California playoffs.
Dorfman earned multiple first-team AllSCCAL honors in both sports, but his impact on the basketball court was particularly significant. He was named SCCAL MVP, Register-Pajaronian Player of the Year, and earned All-CCS recognition. Statistically, his senior season ranks among the most impressive in program history, as he finished among the top 10 in CCS Division III in scoring, rebounds, steals and assists. He remains among the top five in several Aptos postseason scoring categories, including No. 2 in single-season scoring and No. 4 in career scoring.
The Class of 2026 also includes a broad group of standout athletes and contributors whose achievements span sports such as wrestling, baseball, gymnastics, tennis and track and field.
Danny Eller, a 2001 graduate, excelled as a three-sport athlete in football, wrestling and baseball. While he helped lead both the football and baseball teams to consistent winning seasons and CCS playoff appearances, it was in wrestling where he reached his highest level.
Eller captured three individual SCCAL championships and earned two CCS medals during his career.
Chris Doerksen, who graduated in 2003, was a dominant force in boys volleyball. A four-year starter, he earned SCCAL Sophomore of the Year and Junior of the Year honors before being named league MVP as a senior. He continued his volleyball career at the University of the Pacific, further extending his impact in the sport.
Amy Lamb, a member of the Class of 1982, is widely regarded as the top gymnast in school history. In 1981, she won the SCCAL all-around championship and captured individual titles in the uneven bars, balance beam and vault. In addition to her gymnastics accomplishments, Lamb also had a successful swimming career. She qualified for the CCS championships three times and helped lead Aptos to the SCCAL team title in 1981.
Katie Pleski of the most prolific hitters in Aptos softball history. Named SCCAL MVP in her senior season, she led the Mariners to a league title while posting a .606 batting average. Her offensive pro duction included 12 doubles, four triples and 38 runs scored — all ranking among the top 10 single-season marks in program history. Pleski went on to play at Cabrillo College, where she was a two-year starter and earned first-team All-Coast Conference honors.
“Aptos High Hall of Fame” page 6
Lindsey Sotomayor
JoAnn Riniti, Ph.D.
• Women’s Issues
• Adolescence and pre-teen challenges
• Depression
• Unblocking Creative Potential
“Aptos High Hall of Fame” from page 5
Frank Knights, who graduated in 2007, distinguished himself across four sports: football, wrestling, track and field, and lacrosse. In football, he was a twotime first-team All-SCCAL selection as an offensive lineman and was named the league’s Lineman of the Year in 2006. In track and field, he was a team captain, a league champion in both the shot put and discus, and contributed to four SCCAL team titles.
Knights held the Aptos school record in the shot put for 18 years, and his mark still ranks among the top three in program history. He continued his football career at Cabrillo College and Southeast Missouri State University, earning first-team all-conference honors at both institutions. In 2011, he was selected to the U.S. Men’s National Team and competed in the International Federation of American Football Senior World Championship in Austria.
Rich Taylor, a longtime boys tennis coach, is also being recognized for his contributions to the program.
Over 12 years, Taylor led his teams to seven SCCAL championships, a total that ranks second
in both league and school history.
Ward Pitman is an honorary inductee and is being recognized for more than two
“This class really reflects the depth and diversity of talent we’ve had at Aptos over the years. From championship teams and recordsetting performances to decades of service and support, these individuals have all left a lasting mark on our school and community.”
— Aptos High School Sports Hall of Fame Organizers
decades of service to Aptos track and field. Since 2002, Pitman has served as the official starter for the program and for all SCCAL championship meets. In addition to his role on the track, he has installed nearly 100 commemorative bronze plaques throughout the school’s gymnasium and stadium, helping preserve the history of Aptos athletics.
Rounding out the class is Nick Hathaway, a standout baseball player from the school’s early years who recently died. Hathaway transferred to Aptos when the school opened in 1969 and quickly established himself as one of the area’s top pitchers. He earned all-league honors both before and after transferring and delivered several remarkable performances, including a no-hitter against Soquel and a 21-strikeout game against Harbor.
Hathaway also contributed offensively, batting .349 during his career. He continued his baseball career at Cabrillo College, where he led the Seahawks to a conference championship in 1972. That season, he posted a 10-1 record with a 1.10 earned run average and was named Coast Conference MVP. •••
The Hall of Fame induction ceremony will begin with a social hour at 4 p.m., followed by dinner and the awards program at 5 p.m. Organizers say the event serves not only as a celebration of individual achievements but also as a recognition of the broader community that has supported Aptos High athletics over the years.
Tickets for the event are $70 and can be reserved through the Aptos High School athletic department.
For many in the Aptos community, the induction ceremony represents more than a retrospective of past accomplishments. It is also a reminder of the traditions and standards that continue to shape current and future student-athletes.
“This class really reflects the depth and diversity of talent we’ve had at Aptos over the years,” organizers said in a statement announcing the inductees. “From championship teams and record-setting performances to decades of service and support, these individuals have all left a lasting mark on our school and community.”
n
Ward Pitman with the Aptos High School Mariner
Vistra to Permanently Close Moss 100 Battery Facility at Moss Landing Site Company Says Cost of Recommissioning Outweighs
By JON CHOWN
MOSS LANDING — Vistra has decided not to return one of the three battery energy storage facilities at the Moss Landing Power Plant to service, concluding that the cost to recommission it would exceed any potential future revenues, according to a recent update posted on the company’s website.
The announcement ends speculation into the future of the smaller Moss 100 facility. “Following months of careful evaluation of the battery energy storage facilities at the Moss Landing Power Plant and their long-term and ongoing operational and capital needs, Vistra has decided that Moss 100 will not return to service,” the company stated on its website. “The cost of recommissioning the facility will outweigh potential future revenues.”
Two other facilities are on the site. The Moss 300 was mostly destroyed in a fire in January 2025 and being slowly demolished. The Moss 350 plant, the largest of the three, remains offline, but Vistra says it might be back on this year. Vistra emphasized that the closure of Moss 100 will not affect jobs at the plant.
“Importantly, this decision has no impact on the employment of our people,” the company said. “All employees working on Moss 100 also have other responsibilities on-site.”
While Moss 100 is being retired, the company said it is continuing to evaluate whether another facility, Moss 350, can be brought back online.
“Vistra continues to evaluate the potential restart of Moss 350, and we are working to return it to service sometime this year to continue providing reliable, affordable energy
Get More from Your Store
Future Revenue Potential
for the people of California and to support the reliability and sustainability of the California grid,” the company stated.
All battery energy storage systems at the Moss Landing site remain offline following the Jan. 16, 2025 fire at the Moss 300 facility, a 300-megawatt installation. The fire has led to more than a year of cleanup, investigation and regulatory scrutiny. Cleanup and recovery work is ongoing at the site, with federal regulators overseeing portions of the effort.
The company reported that, as of March 6, more than 23,000 intact battery modules had been removed, de-energized and shipped to a recycling facility. Demolition work is also continuing, including removal of parts of the damaged building.
“Limited demolition work continues, including the removal of additional portions of Moss 300’s exterior walls,” according to the company.
Vistra said the cleanup and demolition process is expected to continue for several more months as crews work through remaining materials.
The cause of the 2025 fire remains under investigation, with no official determination announced. Vistra added that more clues might be found as damaged areas of the facility become accessible during cleanup. n
Have you been told your labs are normal despite feeling “off”? Are your sleep, energy and libido less than optimal? With over 50 years of combined medical expertise, we’re here to change that and help you create wellness that you can live into!
Aptos High Theater Invites You to ‘High School Musical’
By MIKAYLA NEWCOMBE, 11th-grade student at Aptos High
On behalf of the Aptos High School Theater Arts Department, I am excited to announce our Spring performance of Disney’s “High School Musical.”
This performance will take you back to high school in the early 2000s, where a star basketball player and an intelligent transfer student work together to beat the status quo despite all the expectations set upon them by family and friends. This timeless musical captures the universal themes of self-discovery and friendship, showing us truly that “we’re all in this together.”
Senior Jake Semb, who plays hearbreaker Troy Bolton, explained the show’s appeal. “It’s really fun. It represents teenagehood in a kind of a popular culture way in America, and I think it’s really fun to watch. A good mix of comedy and drama.”
Semb’s co-star is Hayden Torres (12th grade) as new-girl-in-town Gaberiella Montez. Alex Miller (12th) and Marcos Ramirez-Cruz (10th) are cast as the lead’s best friends, Chad Danforth and Taylor McKessie. The two thespian troublemakers are Ashley Johnson (10th) as Sharpay Evans and Wyatt Leffler (10th) as her twin Ryan Evans. Also featured are Madelyn Pate (12th) as musical composer Kelsi Nielsen, Danni Kim (10th) as basketball player Zeke Taylor, Coltrane Speir (12th) as school DJ Jack Scott, and Ror Spaugh (12th) as skater-dude Ripper.
The two “adult” characters in the show,
Basketball Coach Bolton (Kian Sampson, 12th) and Drama Teacher Ms. Darbus (Conner Prete, 10th) add dramatic tension as they work through the conflicts that arise when students start to break free from the norm.
Aptos High Drama produces three to four performances per school year, and my classmates and I were extremely excited when this musical was announced. We have been rehearsing since February, and I am so proud to see how quickly we pulled this show together. Tommy Patterson (12th), new to the program, said that theater “means a place where [he can] go and meet new people.”
The entire cast can’t wait, no matter how experienced. Twelfth- grader Eleanor Pursley has participated in musicals at AHS for four years, on stage and as lead choreographer, she said that she has really enjoyed rehearsals and she is excited to perform in her last show with her friends. Newcomer Lorelei Tracy (10th grade) described the experience as “the start of something new and exciting.”
I would like to thank our director Ms. Aronovici for the commitment she has shown for this theater program. Her hard work and dedication shows she is a valuable asset to our high school and our community. n
•••
If you would like to support our theater program here at Aptos High, please come and see our production of the family-friendly High School Musical (On Stage)! Featuring a cast and crew of more than 50 students, and a live band, performances are:
• April 16, 17, 23, 24: 7 p.m.
• April 25: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
The performance is located at the Aptos High Performing Arts Center. Reserved Seats are available online at https://aptos.seatyourself.biz. Non-reserved seats are available at the door 30 minutes before showtime, pay what you will with a suggested donation of $10. Additionally, there will be an art exhibit in the lobby featuring student artwork from all art classes from our campus. Hope to see you there!
Aromas County Garden Tour 2026
May 9, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
By JOYCE OROZ
Sunny spring days are here again. Stepping outside to work in our gardens, we have questions about plant varieties, fertilizers, weed control, water systems, when to plant and so on.
Don’t worry, expert advice is near. Eight lovely garden-scapes will be open to the public on Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This is an opportunity to explore the green hills of Aromas and gather ideas and information from local people who are serious about their gardens. They participate in Garden Tour in the hopes of sharing their joy of gardening. Your self-guided tour begins when you buy a booklet—map at the Aromas Community Grange on Rose Ave. Try to be there at ten AM if you want to see all eight gardens before 4:00 o’clock. The booklet has descriptions and a picture of each unique garden to help you choose where you want to go first. After a wet winter and warm spring, the gardens are at their vibrant best.
gardeners grow vegetables and fruit as well as beautiful flowers.
Our gardeners are proud of their gardens and happily share information about propagating, feeding, watering, trimming, gophers and so on. Some people specialize in bee-friendly plants and have bee boxes on their property. Many people are into drought tolerant plants. Most of our
Walking through the various gardens, you will come across working artists. Maybe you’ll find, and decide to buy that perfect Mother’s Day gift you’ve been looking for. Artists works include: professional photography, stained glass, layered greeting cards, pressed flower items, little clay creatures, paintings and prints, sculpture, Jewelry, woodwork and weaving.
Aromas sits at the corners of three counties, Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito. Coming from the north (Watsonville) or south (Hwy 101), just take Highway 129 and turn at the Rogee (Aromas) exit, cross the fish bridge and drive straight into town. Turn right onto Rose. Your destination, the Aromas Grange, is at the end of the block on the left. Welcome to Aromas! n
Registration Open for the ‘World’s Shortest Parade’
The Aptos Chamber of Commerce has announced that registration is now officially open for the beloved World’s Shortest Parade, a unique and lively Fourth of July tradition in Aptos.
Businesses, community groups, organizations, and individuals are invited to take part in this one-of-a-kind celebration that brings the community together for a fun-filled morning of patriotic spirit. Participants can showcase their creativity with decorated vehicles, costumes, and festive displays while celebrating Independence Day with neighbors and visitors.
Registration is now available online on the Aptos Chamber website at aptoschamber. com under the Events tab. Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot in this popular community tradition.
The World’s Shortest Parade is a highlight of the Aptos Fourth of July festivities and helps kick off a full day of celebration in the community. The Chamber looks forward to welcoming returning participants and first-time entrants alike. n
•••
For more info about the parade or how to register, visit aptoschamber.com or call 831-688-1467.
SPRING SPECIAL
Ruth Bates
831.359.2212
ruthbates1@gmail.com
INTEREST RATES
— 6.43% — up from 6.14% last month.
SOLD PAST 30 DAYS — 17 homes sold at AVG Sales Price - $1,717,059. MEDIAN Sales Price
$1,525,000, 457 Monterey - $1,410,000, 142 Vineyard - $1,400,000, 640 Saint Andrews - $1,390,000, 3006 Atherton - $1,375,000, 509 Alta - $1,305,000, 522 Spruce - $1,250,000, 130 Hainline$975,000, 546 Cuesta - $950,000, 610 Rio Del Mar - $705,000 (short sale).
ACTIVE LISTINGS — 44 homes on market,18 have listed in the past 30 days. AVG Days on Market =61 days. AVG List Price - $2,157,905, MEDIAN List Price - $1,499,000 ($100K higher than the average sales price). New in past 30 days: 610 Nestora - $988,000, 224 Sierra Vista - $1,550,000, 342 Coates - $1,675,000, 2111 Cox - $1,499,000, 145 Bennett - $1,250,000, 1080 Larson$4,998,000, 601 Burns - $1,292,000, 225 Owl Ridge - $1,040,000, 307 Moosehead - $1,600,000, 261 Aptos Beach$1,488,000, 204 Aptos Beach - $1,250,000, 740 Loma Prieta - $849,000, 308 Ventana - $2,600,000, 501 Pine - $1,499,000, 106 Winfield - $1,349,800, 146 Aptos School - $899,000, 765 Las Olas - $8,745,000, 105 Dunsmuir - $1,700,000.
BUYERS TAKE NOTE
Buyers — Avoid these mistakes when purchasing a home: 1) Not using a local mortgage broker who can shop for the best rates. 2) House-hunting before you get pre-approved for your mortgage. 3) Assuming you need 20% down, you don’t. 4) Trying to “time” the market, don’t — if you are ready and you find the ‘right’ house, that is the ‘right time. 5) Making decisions based on emotions. 6) Buying more house than you can afford. 7) Making other big purchases before you close — any large expenditure hits your credit and can seriously impact your loan. 8) Failing to maintain a ‘rainy-day’ fund — know that you will need these funds after you close. (bankrate.com)
Call, email, text anytime and Get Results With Ruth!
Study Highlights Inequities Between PVUSD High Schools
Future of Aptos High’s 7th Period Appears Dim
By JON CHOWN
WATSONVILLE — A new study that compares college readiness between the Pajaro Valley Unified School District’s three high schools shows Aptos High School students have about a 50% higher rate than Pajaro Valley High and Watsonville High students.
The report, created by Aspiring Higher, was presented to the Pajaro Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees on March 18. Overall, the report shows increasingly better outcomes for PVUSD students over the past six years. Nearly half the Class of 2019, 46.8%, were found not to be prepared for college or a career. That has fallen in the past three years in a row to 40.7% for the Class of 2025.
While more students are being deemed “prepared,” the report shows actual eligibility for California’s colleges and universities varied significantly by school and has remained relatively flat over recent years. While Aptos has high has risen slightly from 60.1% to 61.9%, Watsonville High and Pajaro Valley High have both fallen. Just 44.3% of graduates from PV High were eligible in 2025, down from 51% the year before. Watsonville was even worse at 40.5%, down from 42.4%. The state average is 53.9%.
The report also shows that fewer students want to go to college, or more just feel it isn’t affordable. The report cites research showing that while 71% of California parents want their children to earn at least a bachelor’s degree, 69% are concerned about affording it.
PVUSD’s own survey of seniors in March 2025 found that cost was the top barrier to attending a four-year university: 83% of Aptos High, 72% of Pajaro Valley High, and 54% of Watsonville High seniors named affordability as their primary concern. Cost was a top issue.
According to the study, a lot of eligible students are applying for some kind of financial aid for college. At Aptos High, 84.5%, at Pajaro Valley High, 88.8%, and at Watsonville High: 81.4% of students are either filling out at an application for Federal Student Aid or a California Dream Act Application for eligible undocumented students.
Despite this, cost remains a significant perceived barrier to a college education. The report recommends early education on financial aid and college costs, including hands-on workshops and personalized support starting in ninth grade.
The inequities between students and schools were plainly evident in the report.
Trustee Misty Navarro pointed out that students are tracked from junior high and those spots in advanced courses are only made available to a limited number of students. It can
be hard for a student to climb out of a General class environment where fellow students can be disruptive, the class size larger and the teacher less able to be engaged with students.
“We track students way too early and we leave many out of a lot opportunities,” she said.
The inequities between the schools ranged, and what a student might need and miss out on could be determined by which school they attend. The report found that the three high schools function in many ways as their own “small districts,” with significant differences in what they offer. Aptos High leads in Advanced Placement courses and enrollment. Pajaro Valley High is strongest in Visual and Performing Arts, and Watsonville High offers the most Career Technical Education opportunities. According to the study, these differences have led to perceptions of inequity among students and staff, with stakeholders often unable to explain the rationale behind site-specific programming.
Among the report’s recommendations are expanding early college and career exposure
with field trips and career speakers, and improving access to advanced coursework.
Aptos High’s 7th Period Pilloried
Among the findings specifically for Aptos High were that the 7-period day is underused, with 83% of seniors taking just five classes and just 16.7% of juniors and seniors enrolled in 7th period. Among the school’s strengths was its strong AP access, with 35 AP sections, 850 enrollments and average class size of 24.3 students.
That 7th period was also seen as troublesome by the trustees. Navarro questioned the different opportunities available at the schools and what she witnessed as her child attended Aptos High, while she also represented PV High. “There is a lot of inequity among the district,” she said.
Part of the problem, Navarro said, was the 7th period at Aptos High and how it prevented the district’s three schools from aligning their bell schedules so that students might be offered more of the same opportunities. Instead, she suggested the district look at “aligning our resources and trying to consolidate our programs and making sure that we’re allowing all of our kids those various opportunities.”
Trustee Olivia Flores concurred. “It’s (7th period) getting to the point that it has to be addressed,” she said, and suggested that students could be bused from another high school to take advantage of some of these opportunities if not for the 7th period, which is difficult for kids anyway. “Seven periods is a lot,” she said. “It’s a big load for these students.”
Other trustees also commented on the 7th period, with none having anything positive to say about it.
“I also worry about where students are if they don’t have an assigned class,” Trustee Carol Turley noted. n
The Ribbon Cutting ceremony for the remodeled “quad” in September, 2019.
Watsonville High students building an airplane.
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Our Civil Grand Jury An Opportunity for Public Service that Supports Our Local Community
By Judge KATHERINE A. HANSEN
Throughout California, each county is served by a civil grand jury, an essential part of our judicial system that operates independently from the courts. Each civil grand jury functions as an investigative and reporting body, selecting areas of local government to review each year. After conducting confidential investigations, the grand jury issues public reports detailing its findings and recommendations.
The purpose of the civil grand jury is to strengthen local government through careful oversight, investigations, and thoughtful recommendations. Each county’s grand jury has broad discretion in choosing what to examine, allowing it to focus on issues most relevant to its community. In Santa Cruz County, the grand jury evaluates local agencies to promote transparency, accountability, effective use of resources, and alignment with public goals.
Each year, a new civil grand jury is selected. The Santa Cruz County Superior Court will soon begin reviewing applications, interviewing candidates, and appointing members for the 2026–2027 term. We encourage you to consider applying. Service on the civil grand jury offers a unique opportunity to work alongside dedicated community members, investigate meaningful issues, and contribute to improving local government.
Past grand juries in Santa Cruz County have made a lasting impact. Their reports and recommendations have led
to meaningful improvements, demonstrating how individual voices can drive positive change for the entire community.
In the 2024–2025 term, our civil grand jury investigated the following agencies or topics: climate action; commitments to the public; handcuffing and transport in the county; the county’s building permit process; human trafficking in the county; and the county Health Services Agency.
In the 2023–2024 term, our civil grand jury investigated the following agencies or topics: county local roads; county jail healthcare and reentry support; county Behavioral Health Division; county Child Protective Services; CZU fire victims
APTOS SPORTS FOUNDATION
four years later; inclusionary housing in the city of Santa Cruz; county personnel department; and preventing rape and domestic violence in the city of Santa Cruz.
We are deeply grateful to all who have served, including our current 2025–2026 grand jury, for their time, commitment, and public service.
The 2026–2027 grand jury term begins July 1, 2026. The jury is usually composed of 19 volunteer members and 11 alternates who serve for one year, contributing approximately 20 hours per week, depending on the scope of investigations. Recent grand juries have successfully combined in-person and remote work, and this flexible approach is expected to continue.
We are seeking thoughtful, collaborative, and communityminded residents who are committed to making a difference. As the supervising judge of the Santa Cruz County civil grand jury, I invite you to apply and to encourage others—friends, family, and neighbors—to do the same. Your perspective and experience are invaluable to the continued strength and effectiveness of our local government. n
For further info, please email hrinfo@santacruzcourt.org with questions, or visit our local civil grand jury website for additional information and to review past reports: www.santacruzcountyca. gov/Departments/GrandJury.aspx.
RTC Approves New Rail Freight Operator
Maintenance of Track, Cost of Repairs, are Key Issues
By Jon Chown
SANTA CRUZ — The Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission on April 2 approved a pair of agreements to terminate its current rail operator and install a new freight carrier on part of the Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line.
Commissioners adopted resolutions authorizing a separation agreement with St. Paul & Pacific Railroad and a new 10-year operating agreement with Chicago Rock Island & Pacific Railroad for the Watsonville Branch Line.
The actions formally end the commission’s existing Administration, Coordination and License agreement with SPPR, which began in 2018.
Under the approved separation agreement, SPPR will transfer operations and related agreements, provide track and inspection records and file required documents with the federal Surface Transportation Board. The company will also initiate the discontinuance process for the portion of the rail line north of Watsonville, from milepost 3.0 to milepost 31.39.
Discontinuance is a regulatory status
that relieves a rail carrier of its obligation to provide service on a line while keeping the corridor under federal jurisdiction for possible future reactivation.
The commission agreed to pay SPPR $450,000 in three installments tied to completion of transition milestones. According to the staff report, the payment is intended to ensure an orderly
A Premium Experience for
transfer of operations and avoid potential litigation delays.
The approved agreement follows months of disputes between the agency and SPPR over maintenance responsibilities and freight service requirements. The commission voted in February to terminate the contract.
“Rail Freight Operator” page 19
Sweet Homes Project Developers Sue County Claim Approval Has Been Delayed Unnecessarily
By JON CHOWN
SANTA CRUZ — Developers behind the “Sweet Homes” project have sued Santa Cruz County, accusing local officials of stalling the proposed 105-unit apartment complex in violation of state housing laws. The lawsuit was filed in Santa Cruz County Superior Court on March 23.
The lawsuit, brought by Workbench and Sweet Developments LLC, claims that “Santa Cruz County has attempted to avoid the consequences of its actions by dragging its feet and refusing to issue an approval for a desperately needed housing project, keeping the application in limbo.”
The petition alleges the county failed to meet legal deadlines to approve or deny the project at 3500 Paul Sweet Road, as required by the state’s Permit Streamlining Act (PSA) and Housing Accountability Act (HAA). The developers’ attorneys at Patterson & O’Neill, P.C., say the inaction means the project is now “deemed approved by operation of law.”
“This case demonstrates why California continues to suffer from a housing crisis of epic proportions,” the lawsuit states, citing legislative findings that local delays drive
up housing costs and worsen homelessness.
“Permitting delays undeniably drive up the cost of constructing housing. Studies show that the uncertainty and delay caused by discretionary permitting procedures are responsible for as much as a 30% increase in the cost of housing.”
The developers submitted a preliminary application in April 2024, at a time when the county lacked a state-certified housing plan called a Housing Element, making the project subject to California’s so-called “builder’s remedy” provision. That law strips local governments of some authority to block or delay
housing projects with affordable components if they fail to comply with state housing rules. The project includes six units for extremely low-income households.
According to the complaint, after the county found the project exempt from environmental review in December 2025, multiple statutory deadlines for a decision passed. At a Jan. 14 Planning Commission meeting, county officials “did not vote to approve or disapprove the project. Instead, the Planning Commission continued the hearing to a date uncertain and requested staff provide more information in response to the various concerns raised by project opponents.”
“There is simply no question that the Planning Commission failed to approve or disapprove the project at the Jan. 14, 2026, hearing, which the county has conceded was already beyond the PSA deadline for the county to act,” the lawsuit continues. “The applicants had tacitly agreed to extend the deadline to give the county more time to hold a hearing, [but] provided no other extensions.”
“Sweet Homes” page 17
Lawsuit Challenges Santa Cruz County Approval of 57-Unit Housing Project Dispute Centers on Timing of State Housing Compliance and Use of “Builder’s Remedy”
By JON CHOWN
SANTA CRUZ — A neighborhood group has filed a lawsuit seeking to overturn Santa Cruz County’s approval of a 57-unit apartment project at 841 Capitola Road, arguing the county misapplied state housing law, bypassed required environmental review and approved a development far exceeding local limits.
The petition, filed March 17 in Santa Cruz County Superior Court, challenges the Board of Supervisors’ Feb. 10 decision to approve the five-story project in Live Oak. The case, No. 26CV00891, was brought by Supporters of Reasonable Development for Live Oak, a group of nearby residents and property owners. Santa Cruz County; the Board of Supervisors; and the developer, Workbench, are all named as defendants.
At the heart of the dispute is the controversial “builder’s remedy” law and how it was applied to Santa Cruz County. The provision allows developers to sidestep local zoning rules when a jurisdiction lacks a statecertified Housing Element.
County officials determined the project could qualify for “Builder’s Remedy” because developer Workbench submitted an
application on April 9, 2024, days before the state issued a formal certification letter for the county’s Housing Element. The lawsuit, however, argues the state had already completed its substantive review weeks earlier.
“The Project cannot invoke the Builder’s Remedy,” the petition states, asserting that the county’s Housing Element “was in substantial compliance as of March 15, 2024,” before the application was filed.
Whether or not the county was in compliance is critical. If the court agrees with the plaintiffs, the project would lose its ability to override local land-use rules.
Dispute Over Timing
The lawsuit runs alongside a situation now playing out between the county and the state over when compliance actually occurred.
On March 11, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors voted to seek clarification from the California Dept. of Housing and Community Development (DHCC), asking the agency to confirm that the Housing Element was effectively compliant on March 15, 2024 — the date county officials say the state had finished its review.
“Builder’s Remedy” page 16
Workbench and Sweet Developments LLC’s lawsuit says the county waited too long to take action against their 3500 Paul Sweet Road project.
A look at the 841 Capitola Rd. plot from the Schooner Court cul-de-sac, giving a hint of how a 57-unit complex might feel out-of-place in the neighborhood.
Keepers of the Light Community Sets Up Fund to Support West Cliff Lighthouse
Anew community-led effort is underway to support one of Santa Cruz’s most recognizable coastal landmarks. Local resident and longtime lighthouse steward Bill Simpkins, in partnership with community members, has established the Keepers of the Light Fund through the Santa Cruz County Community Foundation to support ongoing maintenance and restoration of the beacon at Abbott Memorial Lighthouse.
Perched above Lighthouse Point, along West Cliff Drive, the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse has long served as both a navigational beacon and a symbol of Santa Cruz’s coastal identity. However, as a historic structure exposed to harsh marine conditions, the lighthouse requires specialized care. Replacement parts are often difficult to source and come at a significant cost.
Most urgently, the lighthouse’s beacon light is nearing the end of its lifespan. The cost to replace the light is approximately $25,000, reflecting both the specialized equipment required and the complexity of installation.
Donors who contribute $1,000 or more within the initial one-month campaign period will have their name included on a commemorative plaque, created by the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History (MAH), to be installed at the Abbott Memorial Lighthouse this summer.
The community will be invited to celebrate the installation of the new light and unveiling of the donor recognition plaque at a public event this summer. Additional details will be announced in the coming months.
Community members interested in supporting the project can make a donation through the Santa Cruz County Community Foundation at: www.cfscc.org/funds/ abbott-lighthouse-temporary-fund
“We invite the Santa Cruz community to join us in preserving the iconic beacon of the Abbott Lighthouse, Simpkins said. “As a ‘Keeper of the Light,’ you’ll be able to look up at that bright five-second flash and know you helped keep our coastline’s history alive. Together, we can keep the light shining for generations to come.”
The Keepers of the Light Fund has
been established as a long-term resource to support ongoing repairs, preservation, and future needs of the lighthouse beacon. To help launch the fund and build early momentum, a special community recognition opportunity will be offered during the first month (April 6-30) of fundraising:
“We’re grateful for the community’s support in helping care for the Lighthouse, which is an important part of the West Cliff corridor and Santa Cruz’s coastline,” says Tony Elliot, Director, City of Santa Cruz, Parks & Recreation. “Maintaining a historic structure in a marine environment comes with unique challenges, and this kind of partnership helps ensure the lighthouse remains in good condition for all of us to enjoy.” n
Life’s waiting.
Advanced orthopedics to help relieve joint pain.
You’ve got places to go, people to see, goals to achieve. Don’t let joint pain slow you down. Dignity Health’s orthopedic specialists are here to help, working with you to identify the source of your discomfort and to develop a personalized treatment plan. Get out there and live your best life. Learn more about our advanced orthopedic solutions and find an experienced specialist near you at dignityhealth.org/dominican/ortho
A photo of Abbot Lighthouse taken in the 1880s.
“Builder’s Remedy” from page 14
Internal communications cited by both county officials and the lawsuit indicate DHCC staff had told the county the plan was complete and ready to be certified at that time, with no further substantive review afterward. However, due to clerical errors by DHCC, the formal certification letter was not issued until April 23 and later backdated to April 12.
At the March 11 board meeeting, Supervisor Manu Koenig said the delay could have significant consequences.
“There were no substantial changes after March 15, which means it was in compliance, and then HCD was just kind of sitting on it … which really is not in good faith,” Koenig said. “We should require the state to acknowledge that.”
The timing matters because several developers, including the applicant for 841 Capitola Road, filed projects during that gap, invoking builder’s remedy protections.
Claims of Legal Errors
In the lawsuit, the residents group alleges the county’s approval “rests on a series of fundamental legal errors,” including misinterpreting state housing law and improperly granting the project builder’s remedy status.
The filing also challenges the scale of the development, noting the site’s General Plan designation would typically allow about 14 units and its zoning about eight. Instead, the county approved a project with a base density of 40 units — 57 units with bonuses — “more than three times the General Plan maximum and over 500 percent of the zoning standard,” the petition states.
By doing so, the group argues, the county effectively approved a “de facto general plan amendment and rezoning” without following required legal procedures.
“A county may not amend its General Plan … through staff-level or quasi-judicial action,” the lawsuit states. “Any such change must be accomplished through” formal processes including hearings and public notice.
The lawsuit also alleges the county improperly exempted the project from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act, or CEQA. The exemption, according to the complaint, was tied to the false Builder’s Remedy claim. The county’s decision then “failed to proceed in the manner required by CEQA” and deprived residents of an analysis of the potential impacts.
“A project cannot bootstrap itself into a CEQA exemption … by asserting eligibility for a processing track that was never lawfully available to it,” the complaint states.
Beyond land-use and environmental claims, the lawsuit raises broader constitutional challenges to state housing law and targets a provision that allows projects to be “deemed consistent” with local zoning if officials fail to identify conflicts within a set timeframe.
The petition argues that mechanism improperly strips local governments of authority and denies neighbors a meaningful opportunity to be heard.
“By conclusively deeming a project consistent … solely based on the passage of time,” the law “purports to strip local agencies of their traditional authority,” the lawsuit states.
It further claims the provision “violates procedural due process” and “effectively transfers” land-use decision-making power to private developers.
What Was and What Is To Be
The Board of Supervisors approved the project in February on a 4-1 vote, with Supervisor Justin Cummings dissenting. Ironically, the approval was to avoid a lawsuit by the developer.
At the time, several supervisors said they believed state law left them little choice other than to approve the project and warned the county would likely lose if it denied it.
No county or city in California had yet prevailed in court against a ‘builder’s remedy’ suit, Supervisor Felipe Hernandez pointed out during the hearing.
The lawsuit asks the court to void the project’s approvals, require full environmental review and order the county to reconsider the development under standard planning rules.
It also seeks declarations that the project is not eligible for builder’s remedy protections and that portions of state housing law are unconstitutional.
If successful, the case could halt or significantly delay the project and potentially affect other developments filed during the same period, including proposals on Paul Sweet Road and Graham Hill Road.
County officials and the developer had not yet filed formal responses to the lawsuit. n
Photos Credit: Michael Oppenheimer
At the time, several supervisors said they believed state law left them little choice other than to approve the project and warned the county would likely lose if it denied it. No county or city in California had yet prevailed in court against a ‘builder’s remedy’ suit, Supervisor Felipe Hernandez pointed out during the hearing.
A storage contaner can be seen at the back of the 841 Capitola Rd. property.
“Sweet Homes” from page 14
The petitioners’ counsel sent a letter to the county after the “absolute latest possible deadline” for action, declaring the project legally approved and offering to meet with officials to discuss conditions of approval.
“The letter informed the county that the project had been deemed approved by operation of law, and that the county had lost the authority to exercise any discretionary jurisdiction over the project application,” the lawsuit says.
According to the lawsuit, the Board of Supervisors sought to persuade state officials to backdate the county’s compliance with housing law, “specifically to prevent this project from moving forward,” the lawsuit claims.
However, whether or not the county was actually in compliance is in question, and the county is currently seeking an answer from the state. On March 11, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors voted to seek clarification from the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), asking the agency to confirm that the Housing Element was effectively compliant on March 15, 2024 — the date county officials say the state had finished its review.
Internal communications cited by both county officials and the lawsuit indicate HCD staff had told the county the plan was complete and ready to be certified at that time, with no further substantive review afterward. However, due to clerical errors by HCD, the formal certification letter was not issued until April 23 and later backdated to April 12.
The developers are seeking a court order recognizing the project’s approval, prohibiting the county from imposing new conditions, and compelling local officials to process building permits. They also request the county record a Notice of Exemption under state environmental law to reduce the risk of lawsuits from project opponents. n Photos Credit: Michael Oppenheimer
The public hearing notice is attached to the proposed development notification
3500 Paul Sweet Road
Citizen Heroes Recognized for Recent Ocean Rescue
By JON CHOWN
Lifeguard Kyra Sheeper and local resident Jimmy Hope were recently recognized by the Central Fire District of Santa Cruz County for rescuing a teenage girl from drowning at Manresa Beach on Jan. 31. According to fire officials, there were 4- to 5-foot swells that day and heavy riptides. The girl, who was boogie boarding, got sucked out by one of the tides and was around 300 yards from shore being battered by outer reef waves.
Thankfully, both Sheeper and Hope spotted her. Hope was walking on the beach when he saw her, and Sheeper was
at her lifeguard station. Both leapt into action. She called it in and Hope hit the surf.
“I just kind of saw her bobbing around and made my way over through the rip and then put her on my board,” he said.
He got her about halfway to shore and transferred her to Sheeper, who sped her to shore where CPR could be performed. The two were given “Citizen Hero” awards for their brave, life-saving effort.
“It’s just a testament that we need our community members to help out,” said Fire Chief Nigel Miller. “I just want to thank both of you personally for your service.” n
County Parks Launch Poetry Scavenger Hunt
This spring, there are more than just flowers blooming in Santa Cruz County. In celebration of National Poetry Month, poetry has left the page and is popping up in County Parks.
In a project sponsored by Santa Cruz County Parks, Santa Cruz County Poet Laureate Nancy Miller Gomez, and amazing local businesses sponsors, poems by local and national poets have been installed in 16
county parks. Everyone is invited to join us in this county-wide Poetry Scavenger Hunt. In this self-guided experience, we want you to enjoy the parks through your own poetic lens. With the poem as your guide, explore each participating park to find elements that connect to the poem. The hunt is open-ended, so be creative and let your imagination run wild. Use your cell phone (or a sketch pad) to document your interpretive discoveries. Your scavenged responses can be literal, metaphorical, abstract, artistic, zany, beautiful or weird.
“Scavenger Hunt” page 23
Chief Nigel Miller presents Kyra Sheeper (far left) and Jimmy Hope with Citizen Hero awards on April 9.
Nancy Miller Gomez
County Mum on Details of Fire Station Arson
Source Says Camera Was Not Installed in Apparatus Room, as Plans Required
By JON CHOWN
SANTA CRUZ — Nearly a month after an arson attack on the Santa Cruz County Fire’s McDermott Station, Santa County officials are still not sharing much information about the attack, other than it destroyed a 2024 Kenworth T48 Fouts Fire tanker.
At approximately 4:43 a.m. on Wednesday, March 18, sheriff’s deputies responded to the station at 7276 Empire Grade Road after reports of a water tender engulfed in flames at the station. The fire had been extinguished by firefighters at the scene, but the fire tanker was a complete loss.
All the county is willing to say is that
the investigation is ongoing and evidence at the scene leads them to believe it was arson. McDermott Station was constructed in 2004 and according to the Santa Cruz County Department Long-Range Master Plan created in 2023, it is equipped with sprinklers and there is a security camera in the apparatus bay. The ground floor is occupied by volunteer quarters. The second floor is primarily used for equipment storage.
However, a reliable unnamed source has told Times Publishing Group that there was not a camera installed in the apparatus room, nor anywhere else in the station.
“Rail Freight Operator” from page 13
At the same time, the RTC approved a new Administration, Coordination and License agreement naming Chicago Rock Island & Pacific Railroad as the common carrier for the Watsonville Branch Line, a roughly 2.5-mile section between Pajaro/ Watsonville Junction and Lee Road.
The new operator will serve the line’s three existing freight customers and may expand service. The company is expected to bring locomotives, maintenance equipment and crews needed to operate and rehabilitate the line’s infrastructure.
Reid Dawe, general manager for the Chicago Rock Island and Pacific Railroad, said the company wanted to be a benefit to the community as a whole.
“We have a lot of partners that we can bring in to increase business rail opportunities for existing customers,” he said.
Most of the 32-mile Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line remains inoperable for freight due to its condition and the high cost of repairs, according to the report. Dawe said his company had a lot of experience who this sort of thing.
“We have a lot of experience with rehabbing less than adequate rail,” he said. “We bring a lot to the table as far as being able to do that.”
RTC officials said the coordinated
Santa Cruz County will not confirm one way or the other.
The station is designed to house three vehicles and act as a disaster center for the Bonny Doon area. There are 16 firefighters assigned between the Bonny Doon and McDermott fire stations, according to the Master Plan.
A water tanker of the type destroyed could cost up to $1 million to replace. n
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Jordan Malone at 831-454-7636.
actions are intended to preserve existing freight service in Watsonville while allowing the agency to take greater control of the rail corridor and move forward with transportation projects.
Those include development of the Coastal Rail Trail in the near term and longterm plans for zero-emission passenger rail.
Realistically, RTC Executive Director Sarah Christensen said passenger rail is far off, if it ever happens.
She said it’s an ambitious, long-term project that is struggling to even get the funds to study it, let alone run it. The RTC is short $15 million it needs to continue environmental process and project development activities.
“We have a $15 million cost hole, basically, that we’re continuing to pursue funding to address so that we can continue with the environmental process,” she said.
“But the reality is, if we had $15 million today and everything went perfectly, the project would not come to fruition for a few decades.
So that’s the reality of passenger rail in our community.”
The RTC purchased the rail corridor from Union Pacific in 2012 with the goal of supporting multimodal transportation, including freight, passenger rail and a multiuse trail. The agency is required under grant conditions to maintain freight service where mandated by federal regulators. n
Ripple Effect Art Festival to Spread Across County Events and Exhibitions
Begin April 16
Anew, countywide arts festival that launches this month will showcase the wide diversity of Santa Cruz County’s arts community. The inaugural Ripple Effect Arts Festival will run April 16–26 at venues throughout Santa Cruz County, featuring 11 days of performances, exhibitions, workshops and interactive events designed for all ages.
Organizers describe the goal as highlighting the region’s creativity while expanding access to the arts and strengthening connections across the community.
Timed to coincide with California’s Arts, Culture and Creativity Month, the festival spans a wide range of disciplines, from visual art and music to dance, theater, film, fashion and spoken word, with programming spread across galleries, theaters, public plazas and community spaces countywide.
Events include large-scale street performances, gallery exhibitions, youth showcases, film screenings, fashion events, live music, cultural celebrations and hands-on workshops, many of them free or low-cost. Activities are designed to invite participation, with opportunities for residents to not only attend but create, from collaborative art projects to interactive installations and maker events.
Among the exhibitions leading into the festival are two concurrent shows at M.K. Contemporary Art in downtown Santa Cruz. Both exhibitions opened April 3 as part of First Friday and will run through May 31, overlapping with the festival’s April 16 kickoff.
One exhibition, The Anatomy of Wonder: Photo Sculptures, features immersive, walk-through installations by Michael Garlington that blend photography and sculpture. The second, Rochambeau, brings together works by eight Santa Cruz and Bay Area artists across photography, painting, ceramics and kinetic sculpture, all inspired by the game rock, paper, scissors. The gallery will also host an artist talk and portrait session with Garlington on April 18 from 4 to 6 p.m., during the festival.
Festival programming extends across the county, with
major hubs in Santa Cruz, Watsonville and surrounding communities. In Watsonville, a daylong event will activate the downtown cultural district with film screenings, mural tours, lowrider showcases, live performances, art markets and a community dance party, reflecting the festival’s emphasis on local identity and participation.
The festival opens with a downtown Santa Cruz kickoff event, “Santa Cruz Dancing in the Streets,” and concludes April 26 with a grand finale near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, with a performance from musician Helado Negro.
Ripple Effect Arts Festival to Reach Watsonville on April 18
WATSONVILLE — A full day of performances, films, exhibitions and community activities will anchor South County’s role in the Ripple Effect Arts Festival with Ripple Watsonville: The Cultural District Unfolds on April 18.
The free event runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. across downtown Watsonville, centered around Watsonville Plaza and the Civic Plaza area, with programming spread across Main Street, galleries and public spaces.
A major highlight is the Watsonville Film Festival, which will present documentary films about Mexican muralists along with the local short Strawberry Picker, featuring Watsonville artist Juan Fuentes. Screenings run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Community Room at 275 Main St.
The Civic Plaza rooftop will serve as a central hub throughout the day, beginning with a traditional dance and blessing, followed by a community mosaic project where attendees can help create a public artwork. The day ends with a dance party on top of the Civic Center from 4 to 6 p.m., with a live DJ transforming the rooftop into a community gathering space.
Across downtown, there will be live music performances, car shows, mural walking tours exploring the city’s public art and other family-friendly activities and interactive art experiences. At Pajaro Valley Arts, visitors can experience the “Hot Off the Walls: Art to Go!” exhibition, along with food trucks and outdoor programming. n
Temple at M.K. Contemporary • Art by Michael Garlington
1 Ballon Horse • by Michael Garllington
PG&E to Conduct Helicopter Inspections of Gas Pipelines
PG&E is alerting the public that it will be using helicopters in the coming weeks to conduct routine safety inspections along its gas transmission pipelines in parts of Monterey, Santa Cruz, and Santa Clara counties.
The helicopters are equipped with advanced LiDAR technology, which can detect natural gas leaks and collect data to
help the utility monitor its infrastructure and ensure system safety and reliability.
PG&E emphasized that the flights are strictly for surveying company-owned infrastructure and assets. n
Maps show the areas helicopter flights may occur.
Sex Offender Won’t Be Placed at Either Proposed Site, Says District Attorney
By JON CHOWN
Santa Cruz County District Attorney Jeff Rosell announced April 10 that twice convicted sex offender Michael Thomas Cheek will not be placed at either of two previously proposed locations: 970 Main St., Watsonville, and 111 Ocean St., Santa Cruz.
woman and sentenced to 20 years in prison. Shortly after sentencing, Cheek escaped from custody and committed a second rape in Lake County involving a 15-year-old girl.
His criminal sentence ended in 1997, but the Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s Office successfully petitioned to have Cheek declared a sexually violent predator under state law and he was committed to the California Department of State Hospitals for treatment.
Michael Thomas Cheek
Cheek was convicted in 1980 in Santa Cruz County of kidnapping, rape and forcible oral copulation of a 21-year-old
“Sex Offender” page 23
Sea Otter Classic Returns to Monterey Bay
One of the World’s Premier Cycling Events is Just an Hour Away
SANTA CRUZ — One of the world’s largest cycling festivals in the world will occur this month and Santa Cruz County residents can experience it with an easy day trip.
The Sea Otter Classic, held April 16–19 at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, is expected to draw more than 75,000 spectators and nearly 10,000 athletes for four days of racing, riding and industry exhibitions.
While the event is based in Monterey County, its reach extends throughout the Monterey Bay, and for many in Santa Cruz County, it has become an annual outing.
Billed as the “world’s premier cycling festival,” the Sea Otter Classic features more than a dozen race disciplines, including mountain biking, road racing, gravel and downhill events. But for many, the main attraction isn’t the racing, it’s the expo. The event’s massive expo showcases more than
1,000 cycling brands from around the world, with opportunities to test ride new bikes, see new technology and meet professional riders.
Unlike many elite sporting events, the Sea Otter Classic is designed with spectators in mind. Visitors can move freely around the raceway, watch multiple events in a single day and take in everything from high-speed downhill runs to endurance races.
That accessibility has helped make the event a repeat outing for many locals. Some just find a spot to park near the Fort Ord National Monument and hike a little ways to watch the riders at various points on the track.
First launched in 1991, the Sea Otter
Classic generates tens of millions of dollars in economic activity for the Monterey Bay region each year, supporting hotels, restaurants and retail businesses. It has grown into a cornerstone event for the cycling industry, serving as a major product launch venue and networking hub for brands and professionals. Local cyclists attend not only to watch elite competition, but to discover new gear, and connect with the broader cycling community. n
• 11 a.m. — Cross-Country MTB Finals (Fort Ord trails)
• 2 p.m. — Closing events and awards
County Ranks in the Middle for Tax Refunds
On average, tax refunds for residents of Santa Cruz County should be close to national averages this filing season, though fewer taxpayers are receiving refunds than in recent years, according to a new study released on tax refunds from the Internal Revenue Service.
A report from Upgraded Points found the average federal tax refund nationwide is about $3,571 for the 2026 filing season, with roughly 73% of filers receiving a refund. Santa Cruz County falls right in the middle for tax refund size among California’s counties, which is true across much of coastal California.
In Santa Barbara County, for example, the average refund is about $3,238, slightly below the national average, and only about 60% of taxpayers receive refunds. Analysts say that mix — moderate-to-high incomes paired with high living costs — tends to produce middling refund levels.
Nationally, both the size and frequency of refunds have shifted in recent years. Refund
“Scavenger Hunt” from page 18
Upload your photos (or your sketches) as a post to your Instagram account and add @poetryintheparks as a collaborator. A review panel will choose a winner for each location, and they will receive a prize from a sponsoring business!
“Sex Offender” from page 21
A sexually violent predator is defined as a person with a diagnosed mental disorder that makes them likely to engage in sexually violent criminal behavior and who poses a danger to the health and safety of others.
In 2019, the Department of State Hospitals determined Cheek was suitable for conditional release, and a judge ordered his release to Santa Cruz County. Since then, state officials and contractor Liberty Healthcare have been unable to find a placement and Cheek remains locked up. A hearing on the proposed placement had been set for May 22. However, in both cases, the property owner has withdrawn from consideration due to community opposition, according to a press release from the DA.
“Our office had significant public safety concerns with the proposed placement made by Liberty and we are pleased that these properties are no longer being considered,” said District Attorney Jeff Rosell.
According to the District Attorney, the Department of State Hospitals contracts with Liberty Healthcare of California to supervise, treat, and monitor all sexually violent predators engaging in outpatient treatment. Liberty publicly disclosed the proposed placement addresses on April 6.
Both the city of Watsonville and the city
amounts surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, driven by expanded tax credits and stimulus-related policies, peaking at more than $3,200 on average in 2022. But as those
Are you up for the challenge? Invite your friends, bring a picnic, find a poem, snap some pics, win a prize!
Details on how to participate, more information about the poets, and sponsor info can be found at www.santacruz countyca.gov n
of Santa Cruz issued statements soon after strongly opposing the placement. In both Santa Cruz and Watsonville, he would have been placed at a hotel, near the center of town.
Watsonville city officials said in a statement that a hotel setting is “not appropriate” for such a placement and argued the proposed Watsonville site sits in a busy commercial corridor near youth- and familyserving spaces. They also raised concerns that hotel guests would be unaware they could encounter a sexually violent predator on the premises.
“We do not believe this is in the best interests of our community,” the city said, urging residents to submit written comments to the court.
The city of Santa Cruz had a similar response about placing him in a hotel on Ocean Street, noting that the site is “extremely close” to over a dozen youth-serving facilities, including a preschool, youth center, beaches, and parks. The city contends that placing Cheek there would so fundamentally change the “intensity and character of land use” that placing him at the hotel would require a coastal development permit.
In 2024 it was proposed that Cheek be housed in a one-bedroom home in Aptos, at the end of Forest Drive, but the public rejected that idea as well. n
programs expired, the share of taxpayers receiving refunds fell sharply — from more than 77% in 2021 to the mid-60% range in recent years — even as average refund amounts remained relatively stable.
Income remains one of the biggest factors determining refund size. Taxpayers earning under $50,000 receive average refunds of roughly $2,400 and are the most likely to get
money back. Those earning between $50,000 and $100,000 average closer to $2,700 to $2,800, while households making $100,000 to $200,000 often see refunds in the $4,000 range or higher. At the top end, filers earning more than $200,000 can receive refunds averaging well above $10,000, though fewer than half in that group typically receive one.
That range is reflected locally, where Santa Cruz County includes both lower-wage agricultural communities in the Pajaro Valley and higher-income households in areas like Aptos and Scotts Valley. The variation means refund experiences can differ widely across the county.
How refunds are delivered has also changed significantly. The report found about 97% of refunds are now issued via direct deposit, a sharp increase from just over half of filers little more than a decade ago. Paper checks account for a shrinking share, though they remain more common among lowerincome households.
Financial experts caution that a large refund is not necessarily a windfall. Instead, it often means taxpayers overpaid throughout the year by having too much withheld from their paychecks, effectively giving the federal government an interest-free loan. n
Santa Cruz County to Celebrate Earth Day Beach Cleanups, Restoration Efforts Highlight Activities
Coastal cleanups, educational fairs and community celebrations are planned across Santa Cruz County to mark Earth Day.
From the beach to the redwood forests, organizations, schools and volunteers will host activities aimed at drawing attention to climate change, waste reduction and habitat restoration.
Events are scheduled in Santa Cruz, Capitola, Watsonville and surrounding communities in the days leading up to and following Earth Day on April 22.
In Santa Cruz, on April 18, thousands of people are expected to gather along Pacific Avenue, Cooper Street, and Abbott Square Market from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This year’s event will offer a mix of entertainment and activities for all ages, including live music by SambaDá, a sing-a-long with Miss Brooke, free face painting, a free photo booth, composting 101 workshops, and a children’s passport program.
Attendees will have the opportunity to explore practical ways to reduce waste, and
learn about programs that support environmental stewardship across Santa Cruz County.
Meanwhile, Watsonville is planning a whole week of events. On Saturday, April
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
Watsonville Appoints Matt Orbach as Community Development Director
WATSONVILLE — City Manager Tamara Vides has appointed Matt Orbach as Watsonville’s new Community Development director, citing his leadership and experience within the city organization.
Orbach, who has worked for the city for five years, will oversee major initiatives including downtown revitalization and
housing development, officials said. His role will focus on guiding long-term planning efforts while addressing community needs.
“Matt has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication throughout his time with the City,” Vides said in a statement.
“His deep understanding of our community and commitment to thoughtful, strategic planning make him the ideal choice.”
Orbach said he was honored to take on the position and looks forward to continuing his work with the city.
“I am both honored and humbled to have been chosen,” Orbach said. “I am
18, there will be a garden box workshop at Marinovich Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and a cleanup effort at Pinto Lake from 9 a.m. to noon.
On April 22, Watsonville will have fun
more.
The day ends with a DJ party on the roof of the Civic Center building. n
excited to continue this journey and lead this department as we take on the next phase of development.”
He said upcoming work will include implementation of the Downtown Watsonville Specific Plan and the city’s 2050 General Plan.
Orbach holds a bachelor’s degree in literature from the University of California, Santa Cruz and a master’s degree in city and regional planning from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.
His previous roles include positions with the cities of San Juan Bautista and Capitola,
as well as the Soquel Creek Water District. In Watsonville, he has managed projects such as the Golden Brands warehousing and distribution center, Measure S in 2022 and the city’s sixth-cycle Housing Element.
Mountain Community Theater to Hold Auditions for Fall Comedy
‘Rumors’
Mountain Community Theater will hold auditions in late April for its fall production of “Rumors,” a farce by playwright Neil Simon.
“Briefs” page 26
activities at Watsonville Public Library, tours of downtown art installations, live music and
Matt Orbach
Saturday April 18
EARTH DAY SANTA CRUZ FESTIVAL
11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., Downtown Santa Cruz, 118 Cooper Street, Santa Cruz
Local businesses and organizations gather for a day of fun and environmentally focused activities.
Enjoy live music from SambaDá, free face painting, flower crown making, and eco-friendly vendors. Children can participate in the popular Passport Program for free treats.
Visit https://tinyurl.com/Earth-Day-SC-2026 for details.
ZERO WASTE WEEK CHALLENGE KICKOFF
9 a.m., Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos Cabrillo College’s Sustainability Council invites students and the public to begin a nine-day “Zero Waste” challenge. Participants are encouraged to swap single-use plastics for reusables and learn about campus composting and power-down initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint. Visit www.cabrillo.edu/sustainability/earth-week/ to take the pledge.
Sunday April 19
EARTH DAY COMMUNITY BIKE CELEBRATION
1 p.m., Watsonville City Plaza, 358 Main Street, Watsonville Celebrate sustainable transportation with a community bike ride and festival.
This family-friendly event includes biking demonstrations, safety workshops, and resources for local cyclists, promoting carbon-free travel throughout the Pajaro Valley. For more details, visit https://tinyurl.com/Earth-Day-BikesWats-2026.
Explore the local ecosystem with a guided walk led by Dion and the Sustainability Council.
This outdoor session highlights native flora and fauna along the Carmichael Trail, offering insights into the natural history of the Aptos hills and surrounding watersheds. For a full schedule, visit www.cabrillo.edu/sustainability/earthweek/.
Wednesday April 22
WATSONVILLE EARTH DAY/DAY OF THE CHILD
12 p.m., Watsonville City Plaza, 358 Main Street, Watsonville
This 16th annual festival combines Earth Day stewardship with the Latin American holiday Día del Niño. Families can enjoy live performances, environmental education booths in English and Spanish, and fun activities dedicated to the future of our children and planet. For more info, visit www.pvwater.org/city-of-watsonville-earthday-day-of-the-child.
BUILD A BUG WORKSHOP WITH RECYCLED MATERIALS
3 p.m., Watsonville Public Library (Downtown), 275 Main Street, Watsonville
The Watsonville Public Library hosts a second session of its popular recycled art workshop on the official Earth Day. Kids can learn about environmental impact while transforming everyday waste into imaginative insects and garden art. More information can be found at www.watsonville.gov/Calendar. aspx?EID=7498.
Saturday April 25
SUMMIT FOR THE PLANET ECO FESTIVAL
11 a.m., Mount Madonna School, 491 Summit Road, Watsonville
This free 20th-annual eco-festival features family-friendly activities, wildlife exhibits, and student art.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Earth Day activitiEs
Highlights include live music, a walk-a-thon, and an eco-carnival with a rock climbing tower and petting zoo. For more information, visit www.mountmadonnaschool.org/ hawk-life/summit-for-the-planet/.
Explore a diverse collection of expertly cultivated cacti, succulents, and bonsai at this exhibition and sale.
The event showcases the sustainable art of growing drought-resistant plants and miniature trees, perfect for eco-conscious home landscaping.
Visit https://tinyurl.com/capitola-mall-succulents for more details.
•••
Beach and River Cleanups
Saturday April 18
EARTH DAY BEACH CLEANUP AND FLOWER PLANTING
10 a.m., Polo Grounds County Park, 2255 Huntington Drive, Aptos
Join the Cabrillo Lions for a morning of community stewardship. Volunteers will work together to clean the local park and beach areas while planting flowers to restore the natural beauty of the Aptos coastline.
Tools and materials are provided for participants. For details, see Eventbrite (www.eventbrite.com/e/ beach-cleanup-and-flower-planting-with-cabrillo-lionstickets-1985472008224).
INSPECTOR PLANET BEACH CLEANUP
10 a.m., Main Beach, 106 Beach Street, Santa Cruz
Join Inspector Planet and the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz for a community beach cleanup to celebrate Global Volunteer Month.
Volunteers will meet on the deck next to the Beach Street bathrooms and Ideal Bar & Grill to help keep Main Beach beautiful.
For more info, visit https://tinyurl.com/Planet-BeachCleanup-2026.
EARTH DAY RIVER LEVEE CLEANUP
10 a.m., San Lorenzo River, River Street South, Santa Cruz
Help Save Our Shores protect the Monterey Bay by cleaning both sides of the San Lorenzo River between Water Street and Soquel Avenue.
Volunteers should meet near the pedestrian bridge across from the San Lorenzo Park Plaza. Registration is required at Save Our Shores (https:// saveourshores.org/event/earth-day-river-levee-cleanup-sanlorenzo-river/).
BIRDING AND SLOUGH CLEANUP
9 a.m., Watsonville Slough, 30 Harkins Slough Road, Watsonville Join the Watsonville Earth Week Team and the Bird School Project for a morning of stewardship and nature.
Volunteers will help clean up the slough trails while learning about local bird species and designing new environmental signage for the area.
Visit https://tinyurl.com/Birding-Slough-Cleanup-2026 for registration details
Monterey Waterkeeper hosts this evening event focused on watershed health.
Volunteers will participate in water quality testing and a community cleanup to protect the Pajaro Valley’s vital water resources.
Please bring comfortable shoes and a refillable water bottle. Information is available from Monterey Waterkeeper on Instagram.
Saturday April 25
EARTH DAY BEACH CLEANUP
9 a.m., Cowell and Main Beach, 109 Beach Street, Santa Cruz
Participate in this large-scale Earth Day cleanup hosted by Save Our Shores to remove trash and microplastics from one of Santa Cruz’s most popular beaches.
Meet at the base of the stairs to Cowell Beach, located on the right side of the wharf entrance.
Register online at https://saveourshores.org/event/earth-daybeach-cleanup-cowell-main-beach/. n
Insects
Tutu fabric
Duran Duran’s 1984 hit, with The
Major European river
Uranus Enters Gemini — Shock & Awe
“Briefs” from page 24
The big news this month is the final entrance of Uranus into the air sign of Gemini (communication, thoughts, ideas), Saturday, April 25, remaining in Gemini for seven years! Uranus is the disrupter, the sudden events-manager, the interrupter, sending messages from its tilted reality to earth, informing humanity there will be sudden changes. And Gemini? Ruled by Mercury, the two brothers always in conversation, informing humanity the way we think, talk, believe, perceive and interpret the world will shift radically!
We can think of Uranus (higher level of Mercury) as a bee or butterfly (with myriad colors) and Gemini (dispenser of information) as a meadow of countless colorful, fragrant flowers (areas of life) that bees and butterflies (Uranus) visit — flying into, touching, tasting, sipping, absorbing the flower’s nectar, transferring pollen (messages of change) from one flower to another (every area of life). Using this metaphor it is humanity, who is “pollinated” with new, innovative information arriving suddenly and unexpectedly from Uranus. Humanity everywhere, in a blink of an eye, evolves, steps upon the next rung of the evolutionary ladder. It is a zeitgeist moment!
A certain level of shock (and awe) has and will reverberate through societies, culture, humanity and all life endeavors. Uranus
ARIES
You shift from instinctual knowing to searching for self-identity. You need both. All of our realities, knowledge and identities are changing as the eras are changing. We are all reflecting the shifts and it’s in plain sight all over the world. Unless we’re stranded in the old-world realities. But not you. You’re always initiating new thoughts and ideas from the Mind of God. Then you know how to apply yourself responsibly to all challenges ahead.
TAURUS
You might be feeling different these days, knowing your part in the present/future. It can lead you to feel vulnerable, tender, nostalgic. Your body may also feel inflamed, exhausted, unable to sleep or sleeping too much. Your digestion may be off, your eyes tired, your stamina lessened. Be very careful with diet. Learn what your dosha (Ayurvedic constitution) and blood type are and eat accordingly. No nightshades. Seeking alternative health care will help. You are valuable, we need you. Stay healthy. Swim in warm coastal waters.
GEMINI
You often hide behind humor, deflecting any questions about your inner life. And so I often wonder what dreams and visions you have. Visions propel us into the future. They are based on desires and aspirations. When we envision things, we create a magnetic field around that vision and it “calls” (magnetizes) things (people, events, etc.) to us. Some of us no longer have visions. We have despaired of visions ever coming true. Where are you on this spectrum? Because now in the world your visions lead (or don’t) others.
CANCER
The planets form an umbrella (stellium, gathering) at the top of your chart. This umbrella of stars and planets is not shading you. It is providing you with light; the light of intelligence, an invitation for accomplishment, right action, a sense of achievement, and of service. Your presence always nourishes and nurtures which helps others feel secure enough to just be themselves. This is an important task and Cancer’s true identity. We know you’re shy. We know you notice. We love your food!
is the planet that jolts and astonishes us. Its signature is innovation, evolution, upheaval, revolution — all pushing us forward. Uranus presents us with sudden information that shakes world views. Thoughts, ideas, ways of seeing reality are forever changed! Uranus, ruler of Aquarius, further stimulates our entrance into the new Aquarian era — Gemini/Uranus being its prime messenger.
Uranus is inventive, quick-thinking, often witty, pushing humanity forward at a fast pace. There will be progress in travel, transportation, education, social media, technology, publishing (Sagittarius), in towns, villages, and neighborhoods. The change will occur over time. The last times Uranus was in Gemini was during the Civil War (1861 to 1865) and World War II (1941 to 1945). Changes always arrive with a certain crisis, tension, chaos and conflict, the heart of which is the new harmony. When planets change signs, we change too! New ways of thinking will emerge. We will have to learn to keep up and think differently! Another sign of our Sun’s entrance into the atmosphere and architecture of Aquarius. n
Wesak full moon is May 1st. • For daily astrological esoteric news see Risa D’Angeles FB page or https://nightlightnews.org/daily-postings/
LEO
Your sense of justice stands alongside your sense of adventure. Are you thinking of travelling soon? You need an adventure, perhaps to see the rest of the world, interacting with the kingdoms, offering your sense of fairness and justice. And so, you will shift from self to the world and back again until the two synthesize and you simply become the adventurous one creating a just world. New groups, perhaps spiritual, ecological, fellow travelers seem to gather around you. Leo’s are leaders. True leaders lead with an open heart.
VIRGO
I wonder how your life has changed with the North Node in Pisces, opposite your Virgo Sun. The North Node is our present/future dharma (tasks we are to accomplish in this lifetime.) It’s your new path (Pisces is). I wonder if you’ve shifted into a new future, left the desert of aloneness, and are choosing praise instead of criticism of self. I wonder if you’re in the preparations and purifications for the next two Spring Festivals (Taurus and Gemini) while cultivating the virtuous life. Study, learn, draw and paint the beatitudes.
LIBRA
Relationships (intimate, friend, work partners, etc.) is the entire focus at this time and well into summertime. It is important to build your strength and tend to your physical health. On the relationship level, you will want to be worthy of esteem through personal acts of kindness, compassion, having a generous spirit that produces true love. You want, even as the world changes, to maintain stability, a foundation based on care and respect. Each day you become more sensitive. Ponder upon others who are also sensitive, especially to you. Is there a need to forgive? And forget?
A rapprochement?
SCORPIO
So much energy is in reserve now, no longer held behind the scenes. Mars, your planet, who always looks for Venus is in Pisces so there is a fluidic energy occurring. And Venus is in Taurus, bringing you stability. A fluidic stability. Each day carefully and rhythmically accomplish daily tasks. What these tasks are depend upon whether you’re a seeker, an aspirant, a pledged disciple, accepted disciple or Initiate. These are levels of ever-expanding awareness. Which are you? Begin each day by standing in the light of the early morning Sun. The atoms in your body are then vitalized.
Auditions are scheduled for 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, April 27, at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Ben Lomond, and Tuesday, April 28, at Santa Cruz Actors’ Theatre in Santa Cruz.
The production is described as a fastpaced comedy known for its humor and chaotic plot. Organizers said actors of varying experience levels are encouraged to audition.
Additional details, including requirements and audition forms, are available on the theater’s website. Questions can be directed to slvdaria24@gmail.com.
County Expands Free Well Water Testing Program to Include Additional Contaminants
SAGITTARIUS
In time, the creativity within you, if expressed, becomes brighter, more golden, more accessible. Your body becomes more and more radiant. You deep within wonder about the right step to take. So often you step into the bold unknown, having a devil-may-care attitude. Out and about in the world, your life is a pilgrimage. Then you come home again. And again. Really or metaphorically. On the home front, there’s special healing work to be done with family only you can do. What is your lineage?
CAPRICORN
You’re entering a new world, one offered and chosen. New structures, vitality, color, shape, beauty is your future. Sometimes you encounter sorrow and suffering and a depth of shadows. But you step lightly over, around and out of them. They are often the sufferings of others. More and more you’re called to be a leader and a teacher. All the stars and planets decree this state of being for you. Like a carpet of starry light for you to step on. You are learning to tend to family in new ways. Ponder quietly on this. Revelations occur phenomenologically, impressions are received from above, as the needs appear.
AQUARIUS
The planets are creating a gathering of lights in your area of values, resources, finances, communication and family. You often think and speak at the “speed of light.” Do you know that there’s something faster than the speed of light? You mind may feel like it’s in a shower of meteors. If so, It would be good to take notes during this time. Each “meteor” holds a message from the future. Within each spark of light is an idea to be pondered upon, used as a creative pointer and then anchored in the world. This is a serious time of revelation for you and your Aquarian, new era tasks ahead. They are all about the arts.
PISCES
We each come into the Earth with new tasks to cultivate. We bring gifts from past lives that create a stone walkway into our future. For many years, you’ve been remembering them. Along with learning and studying and following inner guidance. It’s important to identify the value of your work, abilities, knowledge and past life gifts. They help others, create (even if resisted) new conversations and allow for greater awareness. You will be offered much in the coming months. Assess all that’s impressed and offered with care, invoking right timing, direction, wisdom, discipline and Right Knowing.
SANTA CRUZ — Santa Cruz County Environmental Health has expanded a free well water testing program to include 12 additional chemicals, offering more comprehensive information to residents who rely on private wells for drinking water.
The testing, conducted in partnership with the Central Coast Drinking Water Well Testing Program, is available at no cost to all county household well owners. Officials said the expansion is aimed at improving public health protections, particularly in areas where groundwater contamination risks are higher.
More than 21,000 people in Santa Cruz County depend on private wells, which are not subject to routine monitoring like public water systems.
“While most residents receive water from public systems that meet strict regulatory standards, more than 21,000 people in Santa Cruz County rely on private wells that are not routinely monitored,” said Sierra Ryan, the county’s Environmental Health Water Resources Program manager. “Without regular testing, well owners may not know if their water is safe—especially in south county, where contamination risks can be higher.”
The program is funded through a $600,000 grant from the California State Water Resources Control Board. It currently tests for 22 common contaminants and will now include 12 additional inorganic chemicals with established health-based limits, including mercury and nickel.
County officials said households whose water does not meet safe drinking standards may qualify for additional assistance, such as bottled water or small treatment systems.
The expanded testing also fulfills state requirements for property sales involving private wells. Since September 2025, sellers of homes served by wells must complete water quality testing before a sale can be finalized. Officials said the program allows those requirements to be met at no cost.
Residents can schedule testing by calling (844) 613-5152 or visiting the Central Coast Drinking Water Well Testing Program website. Additional information is available on the county’s Environmental Health Household Well Assistance page. n
PVWMA’s Proposed Budget is Deep in the Red Costs Soar as Revenues Fall
By JON CHOWN
WATSONVILLE — Confronting a severely depleted groundwater basin and the steady advance of seawater intrusion, the Pajaro Valley Water Management Agency has proposed a $31.9 million budget for the 2026–2027 fiscal year, creating a potential record deficit for the agency.
The spending plan comes as the Pajaro Valley basin remains “critically overdrafted,” with saltwater contamination reaching as far as three miles inland, threatening a large swath of the region’s agricultural industry.
Against that $32 million, the agency projects just $19.5 million in revenue, a gap driven in part by a 7.4% decline in income from the previous year. According to the budget numbers, the agency expects a $1.47 million reduction in grant funding. To offset the shortfall, the agency is relying heavily on fees tied to groundwater use and supplemental water delivery. Augmentation charges — paid by groundwater pumpers — are expected to generate $14.5 million, making them the single largest revenue source.
Charges for delivered water, which includes recycled and blended supplies, are projected to bring in $2.3 million. As of Dec. 1, 2025, the rate for that water stands at $501 per acre-foot. Management fees collected through
property taxes are expected to contribute an additional $370,000.
Capital improvement projects account for the largest share of expenditures at $14.2 million, reflecting the agency’s push to develop alternative water supplies and slow seawater intrusion.
Among the key projects:
• Basin monitoring efforts will receive $2.26 million to expand a network of more than 170 wells used to track groundwater conditions and comply with reporting requirements under California’s Sustainable Groundwater Management Act.
• The College Lake Project is allocated $1.92 million to complete construction of a treatment plant and intake system aimed at converting a seasonal lake into a reliable irrigation source.
• The Watsonville Slough system will receive $1.79 million to advance a managed aquifer recharge and recovery project, with construction expected to begin in spring 2027.
As construction accelerates, so do borrowing costs. Debt service payments are set to rise by $2 million, reaching $6.06 million in the coming fiscal year.
A significant share of that total — $2.04 million — will go toward interest-only payments on a $74.2 million loan secured through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act program. The agency is also continuing payments on a 2015 refunding bond due in 2029 and a 2005 Department of Water Resources note scheduled to be retired in 2027.
Personnel costs are budgeted at $3.5 million to support just 17 positions. The general manager’s total compensation is projected at $405,756, while two Water System Operator II positions will cost roughly $380,000 each.
Meanwhile, the agency expects a sharp increase in utility expenses, projecting a 35.8% jump in electricity and related costs to $872,700, driven by the energy demands of pumping and treating water.
With the debt steadily increasing, officials are considering additional rate increases. An ad hoc rate-setting committee formed in August 2025 is reviewing options as the agency faces continued reliance on borrowing. The PVWMA has not publicly posted its annual report, which it is required to create, since 2023. n
Capitola to Celebrate New Park at Rispin Mansion
CAPITOLA — The City of Capitola will celebrate the opening of a new public park at the historic Rispin Mansion property, the culmination of years of planning and environmental review for one of the city’s most prominent, but long-closed sites.
According to a city staff report, the Park at Rispin Mansion, located at 2000 Wharf Road along Soquel Creek, officially opened at the end of 2025 after many years of limited public access. The project transforms the grounds of the 1920s-era estate into a passiveuse park meant to emphasize open space and historic preservation.
A public celebration is scheduled for Tuesday, April 21, beginning at 10:30 a.m. at the park’s amphitheater, with brief remarks followed by a “Storytime Under the Trees” program at 11 a.m. in partnership with the Santa Cruz Public Library System and led by Capitola Branch Library staff.
The plan for the park has a network of accessible pathways, landscaped terraces and small gathering areas designed to work with the site’s topography and creekside setting.
While the mansion itself is still closed due to safety concerns, the surrounding
grounds now provide space for walking, informal gatherings and educational use.
Key elements of the project include restoration of historic features such as the entry and grand staircases, reflecting pool, sundial, fountain and arbor, alongside new amenities including an amphitheater, bocce ball court, children’s nature play area, chess tables, benches and interpretive signage. The design also incorporates ADA-compliant pathways, lighting and other infrastructure improvements intended to support safe public access.
Landscape improvements emphasize
native and drought-tolerant plantings, including a native oak demonstration garden and a Monarch butterfly habitat area.
City officials said funding for the project came from a mix of local and state sources, including the city’s general fund, a Proposition 68 grant and Santa Cruz County Measure Q park improvement funds. Earlier in the process, the city received a $383,000 grant in 2014 from the California Department of Housing and Community Development to begin work on restoring the grounds and developing a community park of about 0.86 acres.
The park might have turned out far different. According to a revised Environmental Impact Report prepared for the site, prior proposals considered far more development, including construction of a small visitorserving hotel, event space and expanded parking areas.
The environmental review analyzed how such development could affect the surrounding area, particularly the sensitive Soquel Creek corridor, addressing potential impacts to biological resources, water quality, traffic and noise. Addressing both the preservation of the historic estate and the protection of the creek environment was too big a challenge.
Over time, city leaders moved away from those larger-scale plans, opting instead for a lower-impact approach centered on passive recreation and open space. No structural rehabilitation of the mansion itself was included in the park project, and the building remains closed.
Officials have described the park as part of a phased approach that at least gets the site active and used, while leaving open the possibility of the mansion being restored in the future. n
Officials line up to cut the ribbon to officially open the College Lake Water Supply Project Aug 8, 2025.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
ANNOUNCEMENTS
DROP-IN EVENING FIGURE DRAWING
7–9:30 p.m., Santa Cruz Art League, 526 Broadway
“Wonderful opportunity to work on drawing with a model, facilitated by a friendly instructor who created a warm atmosphere for all.”
— Evening Figure Drawing participant
Beginner to professional artists are welcome for these drop-in figure drawing sessions. Instruction and/or critique will not be offered.
Monday Evening Long Pose (March 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30) — Drop-in session of drawing or painting from a live nude model including long and short poses.
Thursday Evening Long Pose (March 5) — An evening of long poses for painting and drawing with a live model holding either one 2-hour or two 1-hour poses during the evening.
This session provides an opportunity for artists to create more detailed studies or focus their drawings or paintings.
Thursday Evening Gesture Study (March 19) — This session provides a great opportunity to practice capturing the essence and simplicity of the pose, rather than rendering the complexity and detail of the form. More like poetry than prose! The format for this evening will be a series of 1 minute poses, transitioning to 2, 3, and 5 minute poses.
Facilitated by Mark Sangster and Emily Cafaro.
Cost: $20 per session.
Attendance is limited, so come early or register in advance to be sure of a space. Easels are available.
Painters, please do not use strong-smelling solvents. Visit https://scal.org/dropin-workshops for more information.
ONGOING EVENTS
Mondays
BRIDGE CLUB
10:30 a.m.-Noon, 7695 Soquel Dr, Aptos, CA 95003
The Aptos Branch Library hosts 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.
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. Details of this and more Sevy’s events at www.sevysbarand kitchen.com/events
WEEKLY FARMERS’ MARKETS
WEDNESDAYS
Fridays (except First Friday of the Month)
LA SELVA BEACH LIBRARY BRIDGE GROUP
10:30-Noon, La Selva Beach Public Library, 316 Estrella Ave. Come for bridge from 10:30 to noon at the La Selva Beach library.
Call La Selva Beach Library to reserve your seat: 831-427-7710.
First and Third Fridays
JIM GREINER’S HANDS-ON! DRUMMING
7-8:30 p.m., Congregational Church of Soquel, 4951 Soquel Dr. Percussionist/educator Jim Greiner continues his Community Rhythms Class on the first and third Fridays of every month at the Congregational Church of Soquel. April’s sessions are on the Apr. 3 and 17.
All levels of experience are very welcome to this familyfriendly community gathering. Jim provides percussion instruments and you are welcome to bring your own. Come play, socialize and reinforce Jim’s fundamental themes of communicating, collaborating and celebrating through rhythm!
$10 donation is requested. Doors open at 6:30.
Last Friday of the Month thru October FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY AT SKYPARK
5–8 p.m., Skypark, 361 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley Food Trucks A Go Go presents an evening of local eats, live music and activities for all ages.
The monthly event supports Scotts Valley schools through beverage sales and offers a welcoming community gathering.
Featured Band May 29: The Swag Tones Admission is free.
For details, visit foodtrucksagogo.com.
First Saturdays
CAPITOLA BEACH CLEANUP
9-10 a.m., Esplanade Park
Help preserve and maintain the coastal beauty
DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ — 1 – 5 PM, Cedar St. & Church St.
A bustling market featuring certified organic produce, artisanal foods, seafood, baked goods, flowers, and prepared foods. EBT/SNAP accepted, and Market Match doubles purchases (up to $10). Free entry; metered and garage parking available — free after 6 PM. Live local music and street closures add vibrant atmosphere. Full vendor list and updates at santacruzfarmersmarket.org.
FRIDAYS
WATSONVILLE (Certified) — 3 – 7 PM, Peck St & Main St.
Allyear market offering Watsonville-grown produce, seafood, dairy, flowers, hot foods, artisan goods. Free entry; metered parking available. EBT/SNAP + Market Match. Vendor news via local AARP events.
SATURDAYS
WESTSIDE SANTA CRUZ — 9 AM – 1 PM, Mission St Ext & Western Dr.
Yearround market offering 100% certified-organic produce, seafood, meats, flowers, prepared meals, espresso bar, and artisan goods. Free parking on site. EBT/SNAP + Market Match. Often hosts pop-up breakfast events. Perfect for starting your weekend with fresh food and community energy. Full details at santacruzfarmersmarket.org.
APTOS (at Cabrillo College) — 8 AM – Noon, 6500 Soquel Drive Celebrated coastal market with over 90 vendors selling produce, sustainable seafood, artisan breads, honey, meats, flowers, and hot food. EBT/WIC accepted. Free/year-round weekend oasis for local flavors and crafts. Hosted by MontereyBayFarmers.
SUNDAYS
LIVE OAK/EASTSIDE — 9 AM – 1 PM, 15th & East Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz Vibrant seaside Sunday market featuring organic produce, fresh seafood, hot food stands (Mexican, crepes, brunch), pastries, coffee, flowers. Free parking, EBT/SNAP, Market Match, and monthly family-oriented events.
WATSONVILLE FAIRGROUNDS — 9 AM – 4 PM, 2601 E Lake Ave, Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Year-round market with wide selection of local produce, meats, seafood, crafts, and prepared foods. EBT/SNAP accepted. Parking onsite. Great for combining a market visit with other Fairgrounds activities.
of Capitola. Join a beach cleanup every month at Esplanade Park.
Keep Capitola Salty is a grassroots movement dedicated to responsible efforts helping to maintain and preserve the environment, scenic beauty and coastal recreational activities of Capitola.
This movement is always looking for volunteers. Email KeepCapitolaSalty@gmail.com.
Second Saturdays
HISTORICAL AIRCRAFT DISPLAY
10 a.m.-4 p.m., Watsonville Municipal Airport, 100 Aviation Way Watsonville Municipal Airport hosts a Historical Aircraft Display every second Saturday. Admission is free. Saturdays and Sundays
ELKHORN SLOUGH: FREE TOUR OF THE PRESERVE 10 a.m. | 11 a.m., Elkhorn Slough Reserve, 1700 Elkhorn Road, Watsonville
Docent-led tours offer visitors a guided introduction to Elkhorn Slough’s remarkable landscapes, wildlife, and tidal wetlands.
Each walk is tailored to participants’ interests and abilities, creating an engaging, educational experience.
Space is limited, and tours are first-come, firstserved.
Guests can sign up at the Visitor Center front desk or call ahead the same morning at (831) 728-2822 for availability.
DATED EVENTS
Friday April 17
GET GLASS HAPPY! 3-DAY GLASSBLOWING INTENSIVE Noon–5 p.m., Glassblowing Studio, 131 Old Coast Road, Davenport
This three-day intensive workshop offers hands-on instruction in the art of glassblowing, covering techniques such as shaping molten glass, applying color and using traditional tools.
Limited to eight students, the course includes one-on-one guidance and time to create finished pieces.
For registration and details, visit https://extension.cabrillo.edu.
Saturday April 18
DRAIN AND FRIENDS
7–10 p.m., Quarry Amphitheater, 1156 High St., Santa Cruz Santa Cruz hardcore band Drain headlines a hometown show at the Quarry Amphitheater, joined by No Pressure, Haywire and Secret World.
Set among redwoods on the UC Santa Cruz campus, the venue offers a unique live music experience. For tickets and details, visit ucsc.edu.
EMMYLOU HARRIS
8–11:30 p.m., Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St. Legendary singer-songwriter Emmylou Harris brings her acclaimed sound to Santa Cruz, backed by an ensemble of musicians.
A defining voice in country and Americana, Harris has earned widespread recognition for her songwriting and enduring influence.
For tickets and more information, search for Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium or visit https://www.emmylouharris.com.
Sunday April 19
MURAL ON THE RIVER
1–8 p.m., San Lorenzo Park and Dragon’s Gate Bridge, 137 Dakota Ave., Santa Cruz
This daylong, multi-site celebration along the San Lorenzo River brings together artists, community groups and local businesses for live music, vendors and interactive activities.
Highlights include a mural unveiling and an evening fire performance at the bridge. For more information, visit https://the418project.org.
Thursday April 23
UNITED IN PURPOSE AWARDS
5 p.m., Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton United Way of Santa Cruz County will honor community leaders, volunteers and advocates at its annual United in Purpose Awards.
The evening begins with a scenic train ride through the redwoods, followed by a dinner buffet and awards ceremony recognizing individuals who support opportunities for youth and families.
6:30–8 p.m., Capitola Library, 2005 Wharf Road, Capitola Celebrate National Library Week with a screening of The Librarians, exploring censorship and book policies across the U.S.
The event includes a virtual filmmaker appearance and discussion led by Library Director Christopher Platt. Light refreshments provided.
Registration is recommended.
For details, visit santacruzpl.libnet.info.
Friday April 24
FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY AT SKYPARK
4:30–8 p.m., Skypark, 361 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley Food Trucks A Go Go launches the 2026 Food Truck Friday season with an evening of local cuisine, live music by Shady Rest Band, and family-friendly activities.
Held monthly through October, the series also supports local schools through beverage sales.
Admission is free.
For more information, visit foodtrucksagogo.com.
VINCENT: A ONE-MAN PLAY
7–8:30 p.m., Veterans Memorial Hall, 846 Front St., Santa Cruz Santa Cruz Shakespeare presents Vincent, a one-person play by Leonard Nimoy, starring Artistic Director Charles Pasternak.
Through imagined letters, the production explores the life and legacy of Vincent van Gogh, enhanced by projections of his artwork.
For tickets and information, visit santacruzshakespeare.org.
Saturday April 25
TRAIL RUNNING FILM FESTIVAL
6–9 p.m., Rio Theatre, 1205 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz
The Trail Running Film Festival returns with an evening of inspiring films celebrating adventure, inclusivity and the global trail running community.
The program features stories from around the world, plus intermission surprises.
Doors open at 6:20 p.m., with films beginning at 7 p.m. For tickets and information, visit riotheatre.com.
CONCERT V: ALL BACH SOLO VIOLIN
7:30 p.m., Calvary Episcopal Church, 532 Center St., Santa Cruz
Violinist Nancy Zhou performs an all-Bach solo recital as part of the Santa Cruz Baroque Festival, featuring Partitas and Sonatas for unaccompanied violin.
Known for her expressive style and virtuosity, Zhou brings a compelling program to local audiences. For tickets and information, visit https://scbaroque.org.
SIX IS FOR 6ENOCIDE: POETRY BY DANIEL REYES
1:30–3 p.m., Capitola Library, 2005 Wharf Road, Capitola Poet Daniel Reyes reads from SIX is for 6enocide, a powerful collection addressing violence, memory and resistance. The event includes a reading, discussion, book signing and refreshments.
Registration is recommended, with walk-ins welcome. For more information, visit santacruzpl.libnet.info.
SANTA CRUZ BAKE & GATHER
Noon – 3 p.m., Midtown Community Center, 115 South Morrissey Avenue, Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Bake & Gather is a friendly cake and pie potluck where everyone is welcome. All attendees
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
TANNERY ARTS CENTER: FLAMENCO PERFORMANCE
Saturday April 25
6:30–8:30 p.m., Tannery Arts Center, 1010 River Street, Santa Cruz
Local flamenco artists bring an evening of dance, music, and storytelling to the Tannery Arts Cen-ter, showcasing the passion and precision of traditional Spanish flamenco. Expect dynamic footwork, guitar, singing, and rhythm in an intimate setting. For tickets and event details, visit tanneryartscenter.org or the Tannery Arts Center events page.
are asked to register so we can maintain an accurate headcount, as space at this venue is limited.
It is the intent of this event that at least one attendee from each group bring a cake or pie on the day of the event.
Whether you are an experienced baker or just giving it your best shot, this event is about sharing recipes, enjoying great desserts, and meeting your neighbors.
Santa Cruz Bake & Gather is a free event and open to all.
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/santa-cruzbake-gather-tickets-1981603201519 or https://www. santacruzbakegather.com/. More info: bake@fullcalendar.events, https://www.instagram.com/santacruz.bakeandgather/
SPRING ART AND CRAFT FAIR
10 a.m.–2 p.m., Spring Lakes Park Clubhouse, 225 Mount Hermon Road
Browse creations from 20 local artists and craftspeople featuring pottery, jewelry, textiles, photography, watercolor art and more.
A raffle with donated items will benefit the Second Harvest Food Bank.
Admission is free, making this a fun, family-friendly way to support local art and community.
Sunday April 26
DUO PIANISTS FITENKO AND ZAITSEVA
4 p.m., Peace United Church, 900 High Street, Santa Cruz
Distinguished Artists Concerts celebrates its 40th season with duo pianists Nikita Fitenko and Katerina Zaitseva. The program features works by Rachmaninoff, Ravel and Gershwin, including Suite No. 1, La Valse and selections from Porgy and Bess. Tickets are available online. For more information, visit distinguishedartists.org.
Saturday May 2
4TH ANNUAL KENTUCKY DERBY PARTY FUNDRAISER
1:30–4:30 p.m., Specialized Helicopter Hangar, Watsonville Airport, 100 Aviation Way Dress in your Derby best for an afternoon of food, fun and
philanthropy at the Capitola-Aptos Rotary’s fourth annual fundraiser.
Tickets include appetizers, sandwiches, dessert and a drink, with proceeds supporting local nonprofits and youth scholarships. For tickets and information, visit tinyurl.com/2026RotaryDerby.
FITZWERC: PLANT SALE
9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., Fitz Wetlands Educational Resource Center, 500 Harkins Slough Road, Watsonville FitzWERC hosts a family-friendly native plant sale featuring species suited for local gardens and habitat restoration.
Visitors can explore the wetlands center, greenhouse, and demonstration gardens while selecting plants to take home.
Proceeds support education and conservation programs. For details, call 831.728.1156, go to https://www. watsonvillewetlandswatch.org/other-events/annual-spring-nativeplant-sale-2026-05-02 or visit the center.
ROARING CAMP: BUBBLE BONANZA
10:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m., Roaring Camp Railroads, 5400 Graham Hill Road, Felton
Roaring Camp Railroads Roaring Camp Railroads hosts Bubble Bonanza, an immersive family event featuring the Circus Bubble Train traveling through the redwoods. Guests enjoy millions of bubbles, circus performances, and interactive activities in Bret Harte Hall with jugglers, dancers, and bubble magician Tom Noddy. For details, call 831.335.4484 or visit roaringcamp.com.
Tuesday May 5
MASTER CLASS: GREGORIO URIBE — A JOURNEY THROUGH COLOMBIAN MUSIC
7:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m., Kuumbwa Jazz Center, 320-2 Cedar St, Santa Cruz
Latin GRAMMY-nominated Colombian musician Gregorio Uribe leads an interactive master class exploring the diverse regional rhythms of Colombia.
Through live demonstration and storytelling, he teaches traditional styles while sharing their cultural, historical, and geographic context.
Open to musicians and non-musicians alike, this educational experience highlights Uribe’s global collaborations and acclaimed performance career. For details, visit kuumbwajazz.org.
Friday May 8
COMMUNITY HEALTH TRUST HEALTH FAIR
2:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., Watsonville City Plaza, 358 Main Street The Community Health Trust’s Annual Health Fair offers a free, family-friendly afternoon focused on wellness, education, and community connection. Attendees can meet local health organizations, explore resources, and participate in interactive activities and giveaways designed to support everyday well-being.
For more information, visit communityhealthtrust.org or the event listing page.
MOE’S ALLEY PRESENTS: THE BROTHERS COMATOSE — LIVE AT THE RIO THEATRE — W/ MOSHE VILOZNY
7:00 p.m. doors / 8:00 p.m. show, Rio Theatre, 1205 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz West Coast roots band The Brothers Comatose perform live at the historic Rio Theatre with special guest Moshe Vilozny opening the show.
Presented by Moe’s Alley, the all-ages concert features old-school string band energy and rock influences. Tickets available at moesalley.com or ticketweb.com for full event details and updates.
Saturday May 9
MAR VISTA ELEMENTARY 60TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
11 a.m.–5 p.m., Mar Vista Elementary School, 6860 Soquel Dr., Aptos Mar Vista Elementary is 60 years old, and the school is inviting any and all alum, former employees and associates to attend a celebration of the school’s past and a fundraiser to help it into the future. The event is being organized by a committee consisting of teachers representing each decade Mar Vista has existed. For more current and future information, search for Mar Vista Elementary’s 60th Anniversary Alumni Event on Facebook.
Tuesday May 12
MEDICARE AND U
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m., London Nelson Community Center, 301 Center Street, Santa Cruz
A free in-person presentation by the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) through Senior Network Services explains how to compare Medicare plans and reviews what’s new for 2026. The session offers unbiased guidance for beneficiaries and caregivers.
Preregistration is encouraged. For more information, call 831-462-5510.
Golden Gate Gamemakers’ Game Designers of Santa Cruz hosts a board and card game playtesting night at Peoples Coffee.
Attendees can test prototypes, receive feedback, and connect with others interested in game development. A game library, raffle prizes, and food and drinks are available throughout the evening. For details, visit https://goldengategamemakers.com/event_calendar/. n
FEATURED COLUMNIST
What to Do When Your Child Lies
By DR. LORI BUTTERWORTH, Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist
Iwas working with a family whose teenage son had a long history of lying. Over time, therapy moved away from policing the behavior and toward something deeper: helping him clarify the kind of person he wanted to become. The values he kept returning to were honesty and trustworthiness.
After weeks of wrestling with fear and shame, he made a brave decision. He came clean about a lie he had been carrying for a long time. When he finally told his parents, their response was immediate…and angry. They focused on the lie, how long it had gone on, and how hurt and betrayed they felt because he had lied before coming clean. The courage it took for their son to tell the truth was pretty much invisible.
Before judging these parents too harshly, it’s important to understand the context. They had been lied to for years. They were exhausted, hurt, and understandably fed up.
But I asked them two simple questions: What behavior are you reinforcing? and What behavior do you want to see more of?
Those questions sit at the heart of how parents can effectively address lying in children and teens.
Lying Is Usually About Escape, Not Character
Parents tend to interpret lying as a moral failure. Research in developmental psychology tells a different story. Most children lie to avoid punishment, shame, or emotional fallout. In other words, lying is often a stress response.
When a child’s nervous system perceives a threat like disappointment, anger, or loss of approval, the brain shifts into survival mode. Honesty becomes dangerous. Escape becomes the brain’s natural priority.
This is especially true for children with ADHD, anxiety, or high emotional sensitivity. Studies on executive functioning show that impulsivity, poor future-oriented thinking, and emotional reactivity make it harder for these kids to pause and choose honesty under pressure. The lie often comes out before the thinking brain has time to catch up.
The Role of Consequences and Why They Sometimes Backfire
Behavioral research is clear: behaviors that successfully reduce discomfort tend to repeat. If lying helps a child avoid consequences, even temporarily, it becomes a reliable strategy to avoid discomfort.
Many well-meaning parents respond to lying by escalating punishment. But this increases fear and secrecy, not honesty. When the cost of telling the truth feels too high, children learn to lie better, not less.
The most effective rule is surprisingly simple: The consequence should be the same whether the child tells the truth or not.
Parents can say calmly, “The rule doesn’t change. Telling the truth just helps us solve the problem faster.” This removes the payoff for lying while making honesty emotionally safer.
What Parents Often Miss: Reinforcing the Right Behavior
In the family I described earlier, the parents unintentionally reinforced silence
Highly intelligent kids add another layer. Strong verbal skills allow them to construct convincing explanations quickly. This can look manipulative, but more often it’s a sign of cognitive strength combined with emotional immaturity.
and secrecy. Their reaction taught their son that coming clean, even when aligned with his values, led to anger and emotional fallout.
Decades of research in behavioral parenting interventions show that specific, immediate reinforcement of the desired behavior is one of the most powerful tools parents have. That means acknowledging honesty even when the behavior itself was not okay.
This requires parents to hold two truths at once: “I’m not okay with what happened, and I really respect that you told the truth.”
This distinction matters. You are reinforcing honesty as a skill, not approving the mistake.
Stop Interrogating: It Trains Kids to Lie Better
Interrogating kids when they lie often backfires. When children feel cornered, honesty becomes harder, not easier. If you already know what happened, say so calmly, “I know what happened; I’m looking for honesty.” Then pause. Silence gives them space to regulate and choose differently.
What builds honesty over time isn’t
harsher punishment; it’s repair. Shifting from “What’s the punishment?” to “How do we fix this?” strengthens accountability and empathy far more than shame. Children who feel safe telling the truth learn that honesty is survivable; that’s how trust grows. n
Lori Butterworth is a child and adolescent psychologist and the founder of the Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health and Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Support Services. For more information about mental health support for your child and family, contact Lori at 831-2220052 or visit CCAMH.org. The Center offers evidence-based youth mental health care and free resources for parents.
When children feel cornered, honesty becomes harder, not easier. ... Children who feel safe telling the truth learn that honesty is survivable; that’s how trust grows.
SCCAS Featured Pet FEATURED COLUMNIST
Curious George
George (A329476) is a wonderful 50 pound, white & black, mixed breed neutered male dog who is simply fantastic.
He has a friendly, mellow personality, gets along well with other dogs, loves attention and affection from people, and enjoys all the basic, good stuff like walks and hikes, play sessions, and snuggling on a couch or the floor. He’s not a dog who needs anything terribly special, he’s just a good, solid, “mutt” that lots of families could really enjoy having around.
George came to us without much information about his previous lifestyle or behavior, but we know he was previously adopted from a different shelter, and we’ve gotten to know him ourselves.
It’s hard not fall in love — he’s truly just a very nice, easy-going, dog. He had some itchy skin and infected ears when he arrived, so we’ve been working on getting that cleared up, and even the clinic staff has fallen for him! A good quality diet, regular vet care, and regular flea preventative should keep him healthy and comfortable.
George has really enjoyed getting to know lots of our volunteers and having play sessions with a wide variety of other dogs, and would likely do well in with a canine companion.
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. (Arrive before 4 p.m. for “meet and greet” — Please ring bell for stray animal drop-off from 7 a.m. – 11 a.m.) 580 Airport Blvd., Watsonville, 95076 • Hours: Tues.-Sat. 9:30 a.m.–noon; 1–5 p.m. (Closed Sun/Mon — Please ring bell for stray animal dropoff 9:30 a.m.-noon; 1-5 p.m.) Website: www.scanimalshelter.org
SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182 • After Hours: jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us
Binding For Straighter Tree Trunks
By TONY TOMEO
Staking is not quite the same as binding with stakes. It is more for the benefit of the roots than the trunks, which is what binding is for. Staking should support new trees only while such trees disperse roots for adequate stability. As trees do so, stakes become obsolete. Actually, stakes that remain for too long may be detrimental to healthy tree development.
Binding with stakes promotes straight trunk growth. It is particularly practical for trees that naturally develop crooked or multiple trunks. It is a technique that is quite common within nurseries, although not home gardens. However, many trees retain binding stakes when they arrive from nurseries. For a while after planting, some continue to benefit from them.
soil below the roots of such new trees. If possible, it is better to merely replace binding stakes with supportive stakes.
The next best option is to replace tape that binds young trunks to stakes with looser tape. This maintains the straight form of such trunks without inhibiting their growth. Supportive stakes, in addition to binding stakes, maintain their upright posture. Most trees need only supportive stakes, realistically. A few trees, especially new palms, need no stakes at all.
•••
Arizona Cypress
Classification of this species may be complicated. About five distinct varieties of Arizona cypress, Cupressus arizonica, occur naturally. Some may sometimes classify as distinct species. Some grow no higher than twenty feet, with stout and shrubby form. Some grow fifty feet high, with sculpturally irregular form. Botanists may not agree on their identities.
Old trees that mostly grew from seed are typically noticeably variable. Some exhibit nice bluish green foliar color. Others are more grayish green. Modern trees are mostly modern cultivars with strikingly uniform silvery blue foliar color. Some are supposedly conducive to hedging, which enhances foliar color. Although evergreen, foliage is freshest in spring.
Statepoint Media
However, binding may be more detrimental than staking if it remains for too long. Trunks that become reliant on any sort of supportive stake remain weak or limber. Also, tape that binds trunks to stakes can become constrictive as trunks grow. It is important to remove it before it begins to interfere with trunk expansion. Looser tape can be useful if necessary.
For example, California pepper tree naturally develops a few irregular and limber trunks. To produce trees with single and straight trunks, nurserymen bind single trunks to stakes. They then prune out other trunks and low limbs until main trunks attain an optimal height. Because they are still limber, trees remain bound to their stakes while available for sale.
However, such stakes provide only support for trunks. They do nothing for stability while trees disperse roots into their new gardens. Additional staking with heftier stakes may be necessary for that. Such stakes must extend into undisturbed
Without hedging, Arizona cypress develops splendid natural forms. Whether sculpturally irregular or compactly shrubby, it may need only minor grooming. Its finely textured foliar debris disappears into any ground cover below. However, such foliage can have a mildly herbicidal effect on lawns. Arizona cypress trees in a row can be an effective windbreak. n •••
