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Scientists Present Conflicting Views on Moss Landing Battery Fire Impacts
Ann Soldo Elementary School in Watsonville is nearly the only school in the district not expected to experience declining enrollment over the next 10 years.
PVUSD Takes First Step to Close Schools
STS9 on Tour With New Album Full Story page 20
Santa Clara County
Advisory Committee to be Formed for Tough Decisions Ahead By JON CHOWN meeting to create a Sustainable Schools Advisory committee to guide the district in evaluating options for consolidating or closing schools. The committee will include about 19 voting members representing parents, school employees and the wider community. ... continues on page 4
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Depending on how you look at it, South County property owners either received a rather pleasant surprise or a somewhat confusing explanation on the most recent Santa Cruz County property tax bill. Full Story page 13
Pacific Ocean
Pajaro Valley Health Care District
San Benito County Monterey County Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P, NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), Esri Korea,
Santa Clara County
San Benito Count
Legend
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PVHCD Jurisdictional Boundary 1
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Original sphere adopted on January 4, 20 (in accordance with Senate Bill 96 Map created by Santa Cruz LAFCO on 11-17-22
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WATSONVILLE — With enrollment in sharp decline, the Pajaro Valley Unified School District is making the first move to close schools by forming a community advisory committee to help make the difficult decisions. The plan was unveiled at the March 18 PVUSD board
MOSS LANDING — Monterey County supervisors were presented with a conflicting picture of the environmental and public health impacts from the 2025 Vistra battery fire in Moss Landing during a public forum held March 17. Full Story page 10
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No. 7
Volume 35
8
16
24
Table of Contents
7
Celebrate with us the Promise of Love, Faith and Protection
Cover PVUSD Takes First Step to Close Schools: Advisory Committee to be Formed for Tough Decisions Ahead, By Jon Chown
5 6 7 10
12 13 15 17 18 20 22 30
Community News Jacob’s Heart Announces New CEO • Saturday Shakespeare Club to Host ‘Macbeth’ Lecture Series in Aptos South County Property Tax Error Confuses Homeowners, By Claudia Iseman • Watsonville Community Hospital Struggling Despite Tax Infusion Mar Vista Elementary to Celebrate 60 Years Scientists Present Conflicting Views on Moss Landing Battery Fire Impacts: County to Ask Vistra to Fund Ongoing Independent Monitoring of Pollution, Story and Photos By Jon Chown Renata Bratt Bridges Musical Worlds: Performances in Boulder Creek, Aptos Coming Up, By Jon Chown Easter Egg Hunt at Ag History Project A True Friend of Agriculture: CEO of Community Foundation Honored by Local Ag Leaders Water District Completes Moosehead Drive Improvements Santa Cruz County Announces $810,000 in Opioid Settlement Grants STS9 on Tour With New Album: Legendary Santa Cruz Band Has One Show in California, By Jon Chown County Mum on Details of Fire Station Arson: County Records Show Surveillance Cameras Should Have Captured the Act, By Jon Chown Council Approves Revised Zoning Plan at Capitola Mall: City, Developer Seek a Happy Medium for Future Success, By Jon Chown
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Business Profile Chris Johnson Glass: Exploring New Visions and Sharing the Art, By Jon Chown 16 MusicalMe Inc.: Every Child — and Parent — Benefits from Music Education 24 Mid-County Senior Center: A Thriving Hub for Social, Recreational, and Educational Activities 8
Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – Aries, Passover, Holy Week, Easter (Resurrection) & Beyond, By Risa D’Angeles Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29 Featured Columnists 11 ‘The Copy’ at the Louvre, By Joe Ortiz 23 Citrus Trees: Dutifully Fruitful, By Tony Temeo 25 Soquel Creek Water District Launches New Water Bill Assistance Program, From the Soquel Creek Water District SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 31 – Family Affair
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“Schools Closing” from page 1
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Voting members will be chosen through an application process that is designed to balance representation from different neighborhoods, school sites and backgrounds. Seats are divided as follows: • 8 parents or guardians • 4 teachers • 3 classified staff members • 2 representatives from labor groups • 3 community members at large Each voting member will have one vote. District staff, outside experts and facilitators will attend meetings to provide data and guidance but will not vote. The committee will try to reach agreement through discussion, but if members cannot agree, a simple majority vote will decide which ideas move forward. Members will meet over several months. They will first review information on student enrollment, school capacity, and district finances. Then, they will develop different scenarios for how schools could be combined, closed, or reorganized. Each option will be compared based on equity, student access, program quality, and cost. The committee’s final recommendations will go to the board of trustees. While the advisory group will suggest the changes, it will be up to the trustees to approve any school closures or consolidations.
Report Shows Troubling Future
At the same meeting, a report was released that projected the enrollment decline to worsen and highlighted were enrollment is falling the most. The report, prepared for the district’s Sustainable Schools Advisory committee by MGT Impact Solutions of Florida, projects enrollment will fall from 15,690 students in 2025 to 12,604 by 2032 — a loss of more than 3,000 students, or nearly 20% over seven years. The decline spans all grade levels and is not expected to reverse in the next decade.
Valencia Elementary School in Aptos is projected to experience steep declines in enrollment. According to the report, the trend reflects a broader demographic shift rather than a temporary downturn. Lower birth rates, limited housing development, rising living costs, and an aging population are all contributing to fewer school-age children living in the district. At the same time, competition from private schools and alternative education options are drawing some families away from PVUSD schools. “This is not a short-term fluctuation,” the report concludes. “It represents a structural change in the size and composition of the student population.” The effects of that shift are already being felt and are expected to intensify. At the elementary level, enrollment is projected to decline by about 14%, or more than 1,000 students, over the next seven years. But the impact will not be evenly distributed. Schools in older, established neighborhoods, including areas served by Mar Vista, Valencia, and Ohlone elementary schools, are expected to see the steepest losses, driven by aging households and fewer young families moving in. In contrast, a handful of schools tied to newer housing or stronger residential turnover, such as Ann Soldo and HA Hyde elementary schools in Watsonville, are projected to remain stable or even see modest growth. PVUSD teacher Laura Azzaro pointed this out during the meeting when she
shared her reservations about the committee, commenting that she felt more teachers should be on it. “Yes, there are schools with empty classrooms, but HA Hyde does not have one empty classroom,” she said. “I need to have reassurance that you’re going to come to our schools and actually see what we have there.” At the middle school level, enrollment is projected to drop by approximately 860 students, or 24%, with no areas of growth identified. Schools such as Aptos Junior high, E.A. Hall, Rolling Hills, and Pajaro middle schools are expected to lose the most students, which has raised concerns about underutilized facilities. High schools are also expected to see substantial declines, with enrollment projected to fall by about 19%, or roughly 950 students, by 2032. Watsonville High School is expected to experience the largest drop, followed by Pajaro Valley and Aptos high schools. According to the report, about 77% of school-age children living within district boundaries attend district schools, a figure that rises to 80% at the middle school level. Once students enroll, particularly in kindergarten, they tend to remain through eighth grade. However, retention weakens slightly in high school. The rates fall to about 72% in 11th and 12th grades.
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COVER STORY The numbers show that residents are increasingly keeping their children out of PVUSD. The key indicator is the district’s percentage of local children who enroll in kindergarten at district schools, which has fallen from around 77% in recent years to nearly 70%. At the same time, this is happening, the district has attracted 465 students from outside its boundaries to PVUSD schools. Trustee Jessica Carrasco said if district focused more on what it is doing well, it could attract and retain more students. “Positive things are happening in our district, but we choose to focus on other things,” she said, noting the recent achievements made in athletics and the arts. “We do have a lot of good things. We just have to enrich them and support them.”
Committee’s Recommendations Will Be Key
The Sustainable Schools Advisory committee will review all this data and more to develop its recommendations, which are due by November 2026. Besides school clo-
sures, they will review potential changes to school boundaries, grade configurations, and district policies needed to implement any approved plan. “The focus,” the report states, “must remain on ensuring that every student continues to have access to high-quality educational opportunities, even as the system adjusts to a smaller scale.” PVUSD Superintendent Heather Contreras said anyone in the community is welcome to apply, and their application would be taken as seriously as any other member of the community. The district, she said, wanted the community to make this decision. “We’ll go through the application process. If we have more than one person apply to different positions we will do a random televised drawing so that everyone can be sure there is transparency,” she said. “We’re not trying to pack the committee. We just want to have fair and equal representation.” The meetings will be televised and recorded. n
Spring Has Sprung!
COMMUNITY BRIEFS Jacob’s Heart Announces New CEO
WATSONVILLE — Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Support Services has announced that Erik Lua will become the organization’s new chief executive officer beginning April 1. Lua brings both professional experience and a personal connection to Jacob’s Heart. His first involvement with the organization Erik Lua came as a middle school volunteer, an experience that helped shape his long-term commitment to supporting families facing serious illness and his passion for community impact. He most recently served with the Hospice Giving Foundation, a longtime partner of Jacob’s Heart, where he advanced philanthropic efforts across Monterey County. Jacob’s Heart currently supports 429 families whose children are facing pediatric cancer across Santa Cruz, Santa Clara, San Benito and Monterey counties. As CEO, Lua will support families as they navigate the challenges of serious illness while ensuring the organization continues to provide care and services. His role will include leading strategic planning and financial management, overseeing staff and strengthening community partnerships. Lua is scheduled to attend the organization’s April 4 Soiree at The Grove, where he will introduce himself to supporters. Tickets and additional information are available at jacobsheart.org. •••
Saturday Shakespeare Club to Host ‘Macbeth’ Lecture Series in Aptos
T
he Saturday Shakespeare Club, in collaboration with the Shakespeare Workshop at UC Santa Cruz and the Aptos Library, will host a series of public meetings focused on
William Shakespeare’s tragedy “Macbeth,” beginning April 18. The weekly sessions will run through May 16 at the Aptos Library, with a hybrid format allowing participants to attend in person or via Zoom. Meetings begin at 10:15 a.m., shortly after the library opens. The series will explore major themes of the play, including power, ambition and guilt, while preparing audiences for upcoming performances by Santa Cruz Shakespeare this summer. The program features guest speakers from academia and the theater community. The opening session on April 18 will be led by Julia Reinhardt Lupton, a distinguished professor of English at the University of California, Irvine, who will discuss early sections of the play. Subsequent speakers include Charles Pasternak, artistic director of Santa Cruz Shakespeare, on April 25; UC Santa Cruz lecturer Abigail Heald on May 2; and New York-based director Paul Mullins on May 9, who is directing a local production of “Macbeth” this summer. The series will conclude May 16 with a screening of a 2013 stage production from Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, directed by Eve Best and starring Joseph Millson and Samantha Spiro. The meetings are free and open to the public, though donations to Santa Cruz Shakespeare are encouraged. Participants who wish to join remotely can access the sessions through Zoom. The club is also seeking new members and encourages community participation. More information, including how to join the mailing list, is available by contacting the group at saturdayshakespeare@gmail.com. n
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By CLAUDIA ISEMAN
epending on how you look at it, South County property owners either received a rather pleasant surprise or a somewhat confusing explanation on the most recent Santa Cruz County property tax bill. “About 19,000 parcels were charged too much because the total bond cost was spread over too few parcels,” said Laura Bowers, Santa Cruz County Auditor-ControllerTreasurer- Tax Collector. She went on to say: “About 5,000 parcels were not charged at all, even though they should have been.” The individual amount to each property owner is approximately $24 per $100,000 of the assessed value of the property. Bowers is referring to the charge to property owners for measure N to fund Watsonville Community Hospital, AKA The Pajaro Valley Health Care District. Taxpayers will be funding the hospital thru 2056. A total of 24,000 parcels are affected in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties. Bowers says it was a software error that caused the miscalculation leaving some property owners to scratch their heads in frustration. “I thought the letter arrived quite late,” said Mary MacLellan, a professional accountant from Aptos. She only received the letter from the county explaining the error on March 10. MacLellan was surprised that more checks and balances weren’t in place to catch the mistake. The good news is all those affected by the tax collector’s error will have an extension to April 30 to pay their bill. Those dutiful taxpayers who pay for the entire year at once will get a refund if they were overcharged. The 19,000 taxpayers overcharged received a bill reflecting a lower amount. Those 5,000 property owners who were left out the first time around received an adjusted bill with the additional charge included. Despite the explanatory letter, many
remained confused. Lori Hood from La Selva Beach pays online and found no clarification as to why the two amounts on her bill didn’t match up from December to April. “It wasn’t well organized. I’ll say that,” said Hood. The 24,000 parcels cover a large area encompassing Aptos, Corralitos, La Selva Beach and Watsonville to Mount Madonna Road, or roughly the same boundaries as the Pajaro Valley Unified School District. Bowers says her office caught the glitch in October and worked on a plan to readjust the property tax bills. “We’ve definitely had a high number of calls to the office. Nobody wants a higher tax bill,” admits Bowers. But the tax collector says there will be no exemptions for those who can’t come up with the extra money by April 30. “There’s no legal way to waive or postpone,” said Bowers. n ••• For more information online, go to https:// www.santacruzcountyca.gov/Departments/TaxCollector/PVHD.aspx
Watsonville Community Hospital Struggling Despite Tax Infusion D espite the property tax revenue from Measure N, Watsonville Community Hospital is sorely in the red. Since 2024, when voters approved Measure N, property owners in the affected region have been assessed about $24 per $100,000 of the value of their properties for the hospital. The
bond can generate up to $116 million, but can only be used for capital costs, such as buying the hospital, upgrading facilities and purchasing equipment. It cannot be used to cover operating expenses, such as staff salaries or supplies. “WCH Struggling” page 13
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Mar Vista Elementary to Celebrate 60 Years M ar Vista Elementary School will mark its 60th anniversary with a community reunion and fundraiser on May 9, inviting alumni, former staff, and families to return to campus for a day of food, entertainment and connection. The event, scheduled from noon to 5 p.m., is designed to bring together generations of the school community. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the campus, reconnect with classmates and colleagues, and support improvements to the school’s facilities. “This is a big reunion and anyone who has been a part of Mar Vista, we are hoping you can attend,” said Risa Schwartz, a teacher at Mar Vista since 2001. “I am so excited for this amazing reunion and community event.” Schwartz said the reunion is organized by an alumni committee that includes teachers representing each decade of the school’s history. “We have an alumni committee consisting of teachers from all six decades and we are so excited for this giant reunion,” she said. Confirmed attendees include former principals Jim LaTorre, Chris Hertz, Stephanie Monroe, and Rich Determan. Teachers Marcia Arais, who began at Mar Vista in 1969, Valerie Leal, MaryJo DellaMaggiore, and Jan Miles will also be present. Former superintendent Dorma Baker will attend, along with current county superintendent Ferris Sabah and current superintendent Heather Contreras. The reunion also functions as a fundraiser to support the maintenance of the school’s lower playing field and running
track. For years, the field remained grass and often became unusable after rain. A dedicated group of parents organized improvements to install a track and improve drainage. Schwartz said organizers are careful to recognize the contributions of donors and volunteers. “The lower field has always been grass, and a few years ago we had this amazing group of parents who saw the need to put a track around the field and improve the drainage down there,” Schwartz said. “Historically, when it rains, we would have to close that part of the playground because it would be a big soupy mess. These parents were diligent in getting this track built. We want to make sure their contributions are acknowledged.” Schwartz said her inspiration for organizing the reunion came from a smaller gathering in September celebrating a retiring kindergarten teacher. Former staff, administrators, students and their families attended, and the experience sparked the idea for a full school-wide celebration. “It was such a feel-good experience to see these former students as young adult adults and to catch up with their families that I got the idea to celebrate Mar Vista’s 60th with that same feel-good feeling,” Schwartz said. “We decided to have it on campus to bring back the nostalgia and (cannot used to purchase Gift Cards) had hopefully all the be good feelings people when they were part of our Sea Lion community in whatever capacity it holds in their heart.” “60 Years” page 12
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BUSINESS PROFILE
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Chris Johnson Glass
Exploring New Visions and Sharing the Art By JON CHOWN
ocated in Davenport, Chris Johnson Glass is more than an artist’s studio — it’s a hands-on destination where visitors can step into the heat and experience the joy of creation for themselves. Johnson is not just sharing his work, but he’s sharing his art through classes and experiences, which range from one-time sessions for curious newcomers to ongoing instruction for dedicated students. Whether you’re looking for just a fun afternoon for you or a group, or a deeper creative pursuit, the studio is designed for that. “When people come in for a one-anddone experience, it’s really more for fun than serious education,” Johnson said. “But it gives you a taste — and some decide they want more.” In those introductory sessions, participants choose a simple form — like a bird or a heart — and select from five color combinations before stepping up to the bench. After a safety overview and basic tool instruction, Johnson and staff guide them through shaping molten glass into a finished piece. “You pick out your shape, and pick your colors. It’s lots of fun,” he said. “We run them through a safety talk, show them how to use the tools.” Johnson said some people are more natural than others at it, but everyone can learn. “You always have to make an assessment of the person you are with — how capable they are,” he said. “Most people have an average way of handling the glass, and you just guide people through the process.” For some, that first experience sparks a deeper interest. For Johnson, he loves the immediacy of it. With glass, there is no setting a project aside halfway through and finishing it six months later. Glass is a material that demands constant attention. He said working with hot glass is like sticking a fork in honey.
Chris Johnson, at right, works with a student at his studio in Davenport. You twirl the fork around to keep the honey moving and on your fork. Stop twirling and the honey droops off the fork. “So you have to finish the piece. You can’t put it down,” he said. “The glass is always moving when it’s hot. If it cools and stops moving, you can’t do anything with it — because now it’s a rock.” Learning to control that movement is the first major hurdle for beginners — and part of what makes the experience so engaging. If a newcomer wants to improve, Johnson offers private lessons and multi-session instruction for people who want to develop real skill in the craft. Those lessons are not only about technique, but incorporate elements of glass history, chemistry and color theory. Students begin with a foundational challenge: making a cup. “It’s really hard,” Johnson said. “But once you’ve got the cup down, you can do a lot of different things.” From there, the focus shifts to personal expression. “I challenge my students to not just make a cup, but something unique to themselves,” he said.
8 / April 1st 2026 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
That emphasis on creativity is paired with an acceptance of trial and error. “There’s no other way to learn than to fail,” Johnson said. “Failing and correcting — that teaches you where all the problems are and how to control the process.” He recently saw that progression unfold with a student who first came in for a casual session, but instantly seemed to recognize what to do. “She said, ‘Oh, you can feel the glass moving,’” Johnson recalled. “I told her, ‘you can feel it moving. Most people can’t at first.’” She is now several lessons into her training. “I’m so curious to see her progress,” he said. “For my students, I’m trying to give them the skills so they can go and do whatever they want to do.” Beyond classes, Johnson’s studio also produces custom glasswork and original pieces, often driven by experimentation with color and process. That same spirit carries into his public events, particularly his annual glass pumpkin patch held each September at the Live Oak Grange.
Rather than rows of identical pumpkins, the event showcases a new design theme each year. “The pumpkins are all wildly different,” he said. Johnson’s ability to guide others through the craft is rooted in his own unconventional path into glass. In the early 1990s, he visited a glassblowing studio during an open studios event and struck up a conversation that changed his life. “I talked to Art Ramos, and he offered me an apprenticeship,” he said. He later spent time as a technician at the Bay Area Glass Institute — a role that gave him a deep understanding of the mechanics behind the art. “Most glass artists don’t come up through tech,” he said. “I came up being a glass studio technician.” That technical background, along with early work as a machinist, continues to influence both his art and his teaching. “I’ve always been trying to produce art with pretty much everything I do,” he said. Johnson opened his own studio in 2006, a turning point that allowed him to fully immerse himself in the medium. “I was doing glass once a week,” he said. “It wasn’t until I had my own studio and blowing five or six days a week that I really improved.” Now, nearly two decades later, he continues to experiment. Johnson said that in his art, he concentrates less on form and more on color. “I’m always trying to push into new processes. I want to push into new territory. That’s what being an artist is about. And I’m not talking about being transgressive. I’m trying to make the prettiest thing I can make that hasn’t been made before,” he said. n ••• Learn more at chrisjohnsonglass.com.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Scientists Present Conflicting Views on Moss Landing Battery Fire Impacts
County to Ask Vistra to Fund Ongoing Independent Monitoring of Pollution Story and Photos By JON CHOWN MOSS LANDING — Monterey County supervisors were presented with a conflicting picture of the environmental and public health impacts from the 2025 Vistra battery fire in Moss Landing during a public forum held March 17. County officials, state regulators and independent scientists came to different conclusions on how much contamination the fire created, how that contamination should be measured, whether more testing should be done, and whether the contamination poses a lasting risk. County environmental health officials emphasized that Monterey County did not conduct its own independent risk assessment, but instead acted as a coordinator in partnership with state agencies such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the California Department of Toxic Substances Control. Following the fire, the county directed
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Decommissioned smoke stacks mark the location of the Vistra BESS facility, located near the Elkhorn Slough. Vistra to carry out sampling for contaminants associated with battery debris. Sampling occurred in two phases — soil testing from May to June 2025 across 27 locations, followed by water and sediment sampling in September 2025, with results later compiled and shared with the public and regulators. The timing of data collection and the method are key to the controversy. Independent researchers with the EMBER project (Estuary Monitoring of Battery Emissions and Residues) began sampling within days of the January 2025 fire, capturing what they described as a thin but highly concentrated layer of battery-related metals deposited across marsh surfaces. DTSC scientists presented results of soil samples that went several inches down and were taken months after the fire.
State Risk Assessments Find no Significant Threat
State toxicologists presented a reassuring scenario based on the formal sampling data collected under county and state direction. An ecological risk assessment conducted under the oversight of DTSC concluded that there was no “potentially unacceptable risk” to the environment and that no further ecological risk assessment is needed. That conclusion was determined by comparing detected contaminant levels to established ecological thresholds. Only one measurement, nickel in sediment, exceeded screening levels, and that was attributed to natural conditions. A state-led human health risk assessment, presented by Jiang Weiyang of DTSC, reached a similar conclusion. Toxicologists evaluated potential exposure
through air, soil, and water and found that chronic health risks are not expected based on the sampled data. “These screening levels are based on a person staying exactly at that location 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” Weiyang said. “And considering those conservative assumptions used to derive those screening levels, we concluded this level is not expected to cause human health risks to residents.” The assessment considered metals such as nickel and manganese, along with combustion-related compounds like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and dioxins, but concluded that measured concentrations did not pose a health concern under longterm exposure scenarios. Weiyang did note that these results did not dispute any claims by residents who were exposed to contamination during the fire. The study only looked at long-term effects from contamination that remained.
EMBER Raises Concerns About Missed Contamination
EMBER challenged those conclusions, arguing that the official sampling strategy missed most of the contamination. The group’s research identified a “thin, patchy” layer of ash containing elevated levels of nickel, cobalt and manganese that appeared shortly after the fire and dissipated within weeks due to rain and tidal action. “To detect the ecological impacts of this fire, appropriate sampling is and was essential,” said Kirsten Wasson, adjunct professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of California, Santa Cruz. “This includes sampling soil surfaces immediately after the fire to detect the ash layer.” “Battery Fire Impacts” page 14
FEATURED COLUMNIST
‘The Copy’ at the Louvre By JOE ORTIZ
I
f you’ve been to the Louvre or, in fact, any European or American art museum perhaps you’ve seen students copying works of the great masters. This practice has been common for art students throughout the history of art instruction. “The art of the copy” helps students to “get inside an artist’s process” by attempting to replicate a particular style or method. In similar exercises, students are encouraged to make drawings from plaster casts of body parts, full statues, or old masters’ drawings in order to study form, anatomy, movement, and value. Such processes certainly support Michelangelo’s dictum: “Stupidly copy everything” to challenge artists to capture a representation on paper of what one sees in nature. But copying at the Louvre goes beyond that. Many instructors note that few beginning artists know how to finish a drawing and ask their students to spend multiple hours on a single copy of an old master’s drawing or painting. My copy from a painting by Velasquez above was done from a photograph not from a painting, but it satisfied a creative need in me to see if I could attain a credible likeness and spend an extended amount of time getting the details right. I used the techniques of eyeballing and measuring mentioned in a previous installment. What I learned: the practice of making spontaneous marks; a new understanding of planes and contours that comprise a face; how the combination of
line, shadow, and intense value help to create depth and form; and the idea of not being too fussy. In other words, make a mark and leave it alone. My advice to myself? Don’t try to edit the drawing; instead, take another stab at it!
What Artists in Other Genres Have Done: Paul Simon’s method for songwriting is to play along with an existing recording and re-harmonize (find new chords) for the original. He would then write his own melody over the new chord progression—proving that “sampling” or “copying” existing forms and frameworks has some honorable place in the creation of something new. What We Can Do: I’ve always believed that it is easier to make a representational copy from a photo than from nature, because all the visual relationships have been established. Copying from a photo can teach us something about value, contrast, and synthesis. But remember that copying only gets us so far. Eventually the practice can often block an artist’s original vision—easily becoming too easy and leading to rote image production. So, most instructors would encourage students to go back to copying from nature. In the end, when picking an exercise—or inventing one for oneself—it’s always safe to revisit what Michelangelo said: “Stupidly copy everything.” My translation: Copying is a valid technique in art; it’s not cheating. By attempting to accurately replicate a given subject, artists bring their own unique thumbprint to the original and therefore make a work of art their own. n ••• Reader Response: I’d love to hear your comments and questions. Email me at joe@gocapitola.com
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Renata Bratt Bridges Musical Worlds
R
By Jon Chown
Performances in Boulder Creek, Aptos Coming Up
enata Bratt has spent her career moving between musical worlds. From classical concert halls to jazz gigs and Celtic fiddle camps, she’s been there. It doesn’t matter if it’s a community orchestra or musical legends, she’ll give it her all. That philosophy will be on display next month in Boulder Creek, where Bratt will perform with Concertino Strings in a pair of free concerts built around the theme “You Can’t Go Home Again.” The performances, set for April 8 and
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April 11 at Boulder Creek United Methodist Church, bring together a 25-piece ensemble, local composers and a program focused around memories and longing. “It’s about a remembrance of an idea,” Bratt said. “Maybe a place that’s gone, or something you can’t return to — but also imagining something better.” Concertino Strings isn’t a typical orchestra. Founded and led by violinist Joanne Tanner, the group blends professional musicians with adult learners and enthusiasts in a collaborative setting. “Joanne’s mission is to provide a place for adults, learners and aficionados, to play,” Bratt said. “It mirrors how people naturally learn.” Bratt joined the group around 2020, after Tanner began hosting informal performances during the pandemic. What started in a carport eventually moved indoors, as the Boulder Creek church opened its doors to the ensemble. The result is a community-driven orchestra where local creativity plays a central role. That includes original works by Bratt and fellow composers Les Thaler and Martin Gaskell, all of whom will conduct their own pieces during the program. Thaler’s “Azan for Mariupol” reflects on the destruction of the Ukrainian port city during the 2022 war, featuring a prominent cello line performed by Bratt. Gaskell’s selections range from a quiet meditation to a multimedia piece incorporating images of the cosmos. “It turns out we have composers in the
Renata Bratt conducts a rehearsal at the Boulder Creek United Methodist Church. group,” Bratt said. “So now they’re conducting their own music, which is really special.” Bratt’s own composition, “Janice at Pomona Island,” draws from a deeply personal experience: a trip to New Zealand that unexpectedly connected distant parts of her life. While traveling with family near Lake Manapouri, she encountered a place name that felt oddly familiar — Pomona Island — echoing places far closer to home. “It was shocking and hilarious and wonderful,” she said. “Some explorer had gone through and named everything after him.”
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From Classical Roots to Bluegrass
Bratt’s wide-ranging musical path wasn’t always intentional. Early in her career, while playing a wedding gig in San Diego, she was handed a chord chart — a format she had never learned to play from. “I was horrified,” she said. “I couldn’t do it at all.” Determined to expand her skills, she attended a workshop at Stanford University in 1992 led by Turtle Island String Quartet. “Renata Bratt” page 19
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Schwartz said the reunion is expected to draw 250 to 300 people or more. “We are hoping to reach back all six decades of former students, parents, teachers, staff members, administrators, volunteers, and anyone who has helped make our cute little school as amazing as it is,” she said. Alumni are encouraged to share information with friends, former classmates, and families to ensure a full reunion. The celebration will include food, music, and activities for children and adults alike. n ••• For more information about the Mar Vista Elementary 60th anniversary celebration, contact Rob Allen at 831-750-7184 or Wendy Smith at 831-566-5100.
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Easter Egg Hunt at Ag History Project WATSONVILLE — The Agricultural History Project will host a special “Easter on the Farm” event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 4, at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds. The free, family-friendly event — part of the group’s regular “Second Saturday on the Farm” series — will feature Easter egg hunts, crafts and activities, puppet shows, hay wagon rides and opportunities for children to drive a tractor. Live farm animals and hands-on exhibits will also be available.
Visitors can explore the Pajaro Valley’s agricultural history through museum displays and interactive experiences, including milking demonstrations and vintage equipment. Food will not be sold, but attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic to enjoy on the grounds. Items will be available for purchase at the Codiga Museum and Country Corner Gift Shop, with proceeds supporting the nonprofit’s programs. Admission is free, and donations are accepted. n
“WCH Struggling” from page 6 Some of that money has been used by the Pajaro Valley Health Care District to purchase the hospital buildings and surrounding property. There is about $76 million left that is slated to be used on a variety of improvements and upgrades, including new MRI and CT scanners and retrofitting the entire hospital with new electrical and lighting systems. Measure N needed a two-thirds majority to pass and got, with 68% of voters approving. Many local residents feel a hospital serving south county is a priority. “It’s important to have the hospital in the area,” said La Selva Beach resident Dagmar David. According to hospital CEO Stephen Gray, 85% of the patients served at Watsonville Community Hospital are government insured. “There’s 14 to 18 million dollars worth of government funding that’s been delayed,” said Gray. He attributes the hospital’s financial troubles directly to federal cuts to health care. “There’s a trillion dollars worth of cuts to Medicaid,” said Gray. The One Big Beautiful Bill has been anything but pretty for the future of Watsonville Hospital. Gray is reluctant to give an exact dollar amount of debt the healthcare
facility has incurred, but he admits it’s in the millions. Just like the hospital, many residents in Watsonville face persistent financial challenges, too. The city’s median household income is about $78,000, while per capita income is just over $28,000. Roughly 14–15% of residents live below the poverty line, with many more considered “working poor,” struggling to keep up with the high cost of housing and basic necessities in Santa Cruz County. “Watsonville Hospital functions as a security net for people of all walks of life,” said Dr. John Walther. Now retired, Walther served as the Emergency Room Director for the hospital and was employed there for 40 years. “I want to see the hospital succeed. A lot of the existing departments are excellent,” he said. According to Gray the road to success involves finding a partner. Gray mentions Sutter Health, Dignity Health and Kaiser as healthcare “systems” that could step in and give the financially ailing hospital a shot in the arm. On March 25 the Board of Directors for the Pajaro Valley Health Care District held a closed- door meeting to start mapping out a procurement plan to obtain a financially healthy partner. n
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“Battery Fire Impacts” from page 10 Because the layer unevenly distributed and was so shallow, sometimes just millimeters thick, Wasson pointed out that the much deeper soil samples taken by Vistra’s researchers diluted the true measure of the pollution. The delay in sampling also allowed the pollution to dilute even further. And the pollution was not just a shallow layer. Wasson also showed photos of large chunks of debris she found, some 6 inches or more in width and length. “We found hundreds of pieces of debris,” she said. “When we held our instrument over them, they are pure cathode battery metals.” Wasson said they collected samples, placed them in plastic bags and froze them. Her bigger concern, though, was with microscopic particles of battery materials appearing in marine organisms. She cautioned that bioaccumulation can take years to fully understand and warned against
drawing conclusions from limited data collected only months after the event.
Community, County Leaders Express Concern
Several members of the public either showed up in person or called in to share their concerns. Cheryl Davidson, who lives in north Monterey County, said she and others are still suffering health effects from the fire. “Nose bleeds, skin rashes, respiratory problems, metallic taste … we’re still having this, a lot of us. Some people gave up their homes and moved away,” she said. “I ask you guys to look at this data. Evaluate it.” Leslie Austin, who lives in Aromas, said she supports the technology, but the fallout is real and the county and state should take some lessons on when to test and how to test after an event like this. “That knowledge belongs in the rules. The county didn’t ask for this lesson, but it has it. And I’d ask this board to make sure it doesn’t stay here,” she said. Monterey County supervisors appeared supportive of the community’s concerns. “There’s a lot that everyone is learning from this process,*and I understand from DTSC that we have some of the top environmental scientists in the state here, and they want to move cautiously. I know we also have some of the top marine scientists in the world over in Moss Landing, and the difference in presentations are rather stark,” said Supervisor Glenn Church of District 2, which includes Moss Landing. Church questioned the DTSC, asking why the samples taken went so deep. He also asked why the results of soil sampling performed just weeks after the fire were never presented by the department, but only the results of tests done in May. Unfortunately, he could not get a clear answer from the department. The draft Preliminary Environmental Assessment — which includes both ecological and human health analyses — is now under review by state agencies. While that is happening, the supervisors directed staff to draft a letter to Vistra asking it to fund independent biological monitoring with oversight by a local entity. “I’d like to see Vistra fund this ongoing effort,” said Supervisor Kate Daniels. n
COMMUNITY NEWS
Susan True (right), 2026 Al Smith Friend of Agriculture recipient, stands with 2025 recipient and daugher of Mark Sambrailo Kiersten Clontz.
A True Friend of Agriculture
CEO of Community Foundation Honored by Local Ag Leaders
WATSONVILLE — Susan True, CEO of the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County, was honored as the 2026 Al Smith Friend of Agriculture during the National Agriculture Day Spring Luncheon held March 18 at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds. The annual event, held in Heritage Hall, is coordinated by the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau and Agri-Culture. The award was presented by Kiersten Clontz, daughter of Mark Sambrailo, the 2025 recipient, who was unable to attend. Named for Al Smith, founder of Orchard Supply Hardware, the award honors individuals, businesses or organizations outside of production agriculture that have made significant contributions to the industry. Smith also donated 3,000 acres of Swanton Pacific Ranch to Cal Poly, a property that includes row crops, timberland and a one-third-scale railroad. Student achievement was also recognized during the event. Julieta Vazquez Adan, a fifth grader at Moreland Notre Dame School, won the National Ag Day poster contest, while Isaiah Medina, a senior at Renaissance High School, won the poetry contest. Organizers also announced eight scholarship recipients as part of a streamlined
Julieta Vazquez Adan, a Moreland Notre Dame fifth grader, stands under her winning poster. program that allows students to apply for multiple awards if they meet qualifications. A new award, the Georgeann Cowles Eiskamp Memorial Scholarship, was introduced this year in honor of its namesake. “Ag Day Awards” page 18
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BUSINESS PROFILE
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M usicalMe Inc. Every Child — and Parent — Benefits from Music Education
Music Together class with MusicalMe might look like simple play: parents swaying with infants, toddlers shaking instruments, adults and children dancing in a circle. But behind the music is a carefully designed program rooted in decades of research. “Music lights up all areas of the brain, and this program helps children, from the very beginning, to build their musical brain,” said owner Lizz Hodgin Weihrauch. “Musical learning supports all learning.” Since 1996, MusicalMe Inc. has been offering the renowned Music Together early childhood music enrichment program for children newborn through age 5. To be musical is to be a person who can move to the rhythm accurately and sing in tune. That’s basic music competence, said Lizz. What that does for a child can be transforming, but the parents get just as much out of it. “The parents are also the students,” said Lizz. “A musical life begins at home. We teach you why and how.” That focus sets MusicalMe apart. Rather than centering on performance or early technical mastery, the program trains caregivers to build what Lizz calls a “rich musical learning environment” in everyday life. Families leave each class with illustrated songbooks, weekly activities, and practical tools — simple ways to weave music into routines like car rides, playtime, and transitions. “We’re constantly teaching them, ‘Here’s how you can do it at home,’” she said. “Take this idea, take that idea. Model music-making throughout your child’s day.” The approach is grounded in research on early childhood development, particularly the role music plays in brain growth. “It seems like magic, but it’s based on brilliant research,” Lizz said. “Music-making lights up the entire brain.”
she went looking for that songbook Deanna had given her. She tried a song called “Wiggle” and followed the directions for parents. “I sang the song as directed, including all the wiggling movement, and something lit up in his brain. I’m wiggling the craziest wiggles, and he’s responding,” said Lizz. “I thought, THIS is what I’ve been looking for!’” Encouraged by her friend, Lizz traveled to Princeton, NJ, to train in the program and bring it to Santa Cruz County, launching her first classes with 35 students. Within a year, enrollment grew to 150. “I had no idea I’d be doing this for 30 years,” she said. “Now we’ve served more than 60,000 students.”
Measuring Success Differently
Just as important is what MusicalMe works to undo: the widespread belief that musical ability is something only a few people possess. “We really work at dispelling the idea that only some people are musically able,” she said. “Our children don’t care if you’re a good musician, but they know how they feel when you’re singing and dancing with them.”
Learning Together, Not Apart
Another defining feature of MusicalMe is its mixed-age, family format. Infants, toddlers, and preschoolers participate in the same class, each with their caregiver by their side. “We want that because it mirrors natural learning,” Lizz said. In that environment, younger children learn by observing older ones, while older children develop confidence and leadership. “It gives the older ones pride when they see younger ones learning from them,” she said. “And it shows parents they can do this with their 2- and 4-year-olds together.” In a culture that often separates children strictly by age, Lizz sees this as a crucial shift. “That segregation is a disservice,” she said. “Older ones learn responsibility, younger ones are inspired. It’s especially important for kids who don’t have siblings.” The shared experience extends to adults as well. Each child participates with a parent, grandparent or caregiver, creating a comfortable environment in which families learn together. “The adults find community in it,” Lizz said. “People end up being friends.” After class, families often head to the playground. For many, especially new parents, that connection can be vital. “We’re so isolated at home with our kids.
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We don’t have extended family around — we need each other,” she said. That sense of belonging isn’t the primary goal, but it’s a natural outcome. “That’s a beautiful byproduct,” she said.
Built on Research and Intention
Since launching in 1996, MusicalMe has grown to multiple locations across Santa Cruz and Santa Clara counties, serving more than 60,000 students. The program’s longevity, Lizz said, comes down to its depth and intentional design. “There’s a lot of good stuff out there, but this is the best,” she said. “If you know of something better, I will switch.” She points to the program’s ongoing research, teacher training, and curated music selection as key strengths. “There’s nothing that has the depth of research, the integrity, the support for teachers, and the quality of the music,” she said. “There’s even a song advisory board.” Songs are chosen carefully and reflect a wide range of cultures, exposing children to music beyond our nation’s borders.
A Personal Beginning
Though MusicalMe today is a structured, far-reaching program, its origins were deeply personal. Lizz first encountered the Music Together curriculum through a childhood friend, Deanna DeCampos, who had discovered it years earlier. At the time, Lizz didn’t immediately connect with it. Her son had just been born with Down Syndrome, and life was complicated. Then, after trying some music therapy with him and growing tired of singing the same few silly songs,
Over time, some MusicalMe students have gone on to musical careers, including Jesse McMilin, who was the musical director of Mountain Community Theater’s recent production of The Addams Family, and jazz vocalist June Cavlan, who earned a scholarship to the University of Miami and now tours with the Sunhouse Singers vocal trio, which will appear at the Jamboree Jazz festival in Spain in May. But Lizz measures success differently. “The goal is not award-winning musicians,” she said. To her, basic musical competence — moving to rhythm and singing in tune — is as essential as any other early skill. “Do you know anybody who is musical who wishes they weren’t?” she said. MusicalMe’s next 12-week Spring Session begins the week of April 6, with classes offered across its multiple locations and limited scholarships available to help make the program accessible. As with much of its growth over the past three decades, enrollment is driven largely by families sharing their experience with others. The business offers a referral incentive — $50 for each new family who signs up through an existing participant. n ••• For more information, go to musicalme.com.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Water District Completes Moosehead Drive Improvements T his month, Soquel Creek Water District wrapped up construction for its Moosehead Drive Water Reliability and Fire Improvement Main Replacement Project, a critical infrastructure upgrade made possible by a $1.4 million-dollar federal grant secured by Congressman Jimmy Panetta in the FY 2023 federal budget from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Community Grants program. The project replaced approximately 2,420 linear feet of aging and undersized steel and asbestos-cement water mains with a modern 6-inch polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipeline. The upgraded system now provides improved water reliability, reduced leakage, and enhanced fire protection for residents along Moosehead Drive and Winfield Drive, as well as nearby connecting streets in the Rio Del Mar neighborhood of Aptos. Serving approximately 65 homes, the previous pipelines had long experienced frequent breaks, limited capacity, and ongoing maintenance challenges. The newly completed improvements, constructed by Don Chapin Company, resolve these issues and strengthen the area’s overall water infrastructure and reliability. “The aging water main on Moosehead Drive has long suffered from frequent breaks and limited capacity, putting pressure on local residents and emergency services,” said Rep. Jimmy Panetta. “This federal funding is essential to enable the replacement of the outdated pipe with modern infrastructure that will improve water reliability, reduce leaks, and enhance fire protection. This is exactly how federal resources should be used, investing in critical local upgrades that strengthen public health and community resilience.” The total cost of the project is approximately $1.9 million, with about $1.4 million funded through the federal EPA grant. n
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COMMUNITY NEWS
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Santa Cruz County Announces $810,000 in Opioid Settlement Grants
anta Cruz County’s Health Services Agency and Community Foundation Santa Cruz County have awarded $810,000 to local nonprofits through the Santa Cruz County Opioid Settlement Funds Community Grant Program, marking the second round of funding. Since September 2024, the program has distributed a total of $1.62 million. The grants support prevention, early intervention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery programs for opioid-related disorders, expanding services for individuals and families affected by substance use in the county. Funded
as part of litigation settlements. In 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved a spending plan that included grants to nonprofits providing prevention and treatment services. The 2026 grantees and their programs are: • New Life Community Services — $201,358 to open a new 14-bed bilingual residential treatment facility in Watsonville. • Housing Matters — $170,000 to hire a Substance Use Specialist to secure permanent housing for people with a history of opioid use disorder. • Santa Cruz Community Health — $135,642 to treat newborns with Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome and
support high-risk families transitioning from hospital to home. • Siena House — $80,000 for a full-time case manager and expanded therapy services for women and children. • Homeless Garden Project — $60,000 to provide transitional employment and staff training for individuals in recovery. • Stepping Up Santa Cruz — $48,000 to hire a Harm Reduction Case Manager. • Barrios Unidos Santa Cruz — $30,000 for opioid use prevention, early intervention, harm reduction, and youth leadership.
Among the recipients, Sebastian Perez of Hartnell College received the $12,000 Jimmie Cox Memorial Scholarship. Gabriella Garcia of Aptos High School received $4,000 from the Jeannie Witmer Memorial Scholarship, while Samuel Garcia of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo received $4,000 from the Laura Brown Memorial Scholarship. Additional recipients included Nina
Duke of University of California, Davis, who received $2,000 from the Frank Prevedelli Memorial Scholarship; Juliana Lopez-Solis of Hartnell College, who received $2,000 from the Georgeann Cowles Eiskamp Memorial Scholarship; and Francis Kent of San Lorenzo High School, who received $1,500 from the JJ Crosetti Jr. Memorial Scholarship. Natasha Newcombe, also attending University of California, Davis, received $1,000 from the Lou and Carol Calcagno Memorial
Scholarship, and Lizbeth Gomez-Abrica of Watsonville High School received $1,000 from the Matt Ryan Community Service Scholarship. John Pisturino, president of the Farm Bureau and master of ceremonies, said the event highlights the connection between agriculture and the broader community. “This event brings agriculture and the broader community together to celebrate local farming,” Pisturino said. He added that the luncheon also provides an opportunity to recognize students through scholarships and contests centered on the theme “Grown in Santa Cruz County and the Pajaro Valley.” The featured speaker was Erica Padilla Chavez, CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County, who spoke on “Fields of Generosity: Planting Hope, Growing Community.” More than 220 people attended the luncheon, including Felipe Hernandez and Kim DeSerpa of the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors, Maria Orozco and Casey Clark of the Watsonville City Council, Ted Burke of Shadowbrook Restaurant and John Kegebein. n
2026 Matt Ryan Community Service scholarship recipient Lizbeth Gomez-Abrica stands with the award’s namesake.
Nina Duke receiving her 2026 Frank Prevedelli Memorial Scholarship from the founders of the scholarship Sam Lathrop and Silvia Prevedelli.
projects include a new residential treatment facility, increased access to housing and case management, enhanced care for newborns impacted by opioid exposure, and communitybased prevention initiatives. “By investing in additional harm reduction services and a new treatment facility in Watsonville, we are increasing access to lifesaving care and giving more residents across Santa Cruz County a pathway to lasting recovery,” said Connie Moreno-Peraza, director of the Health Services Agency. Santa Cruz County expects to receive $29 million over 16 years from opioid manufacturers, pharmaceutical distributors, and pharmacies
“Ag Day Awards” from page 15
“Settlement Grants” page 19
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2026 Jimmie Cox Memorial Scholarship recipient Sebastian Perez, with one of the founders of the scholarship, Julie Oliver.
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“Renata Bratt” from page 12 “I was lucky to learn from them,” she said. That experience led to studies at Berklee College of Music and time spent at fiddle camps, including programs led by Mark O’Connor. “I saw fiddling for the first time,” she said. “I had not seen it before.” Now based in Scotts Valley, Bratt has built a career that comfortably spans classical, jazz and folk traditions. She has also collaborated musically with her husband, Lee Ray Bratt, whose background is in computer music and recording. Along the way, she has performed with an eclectic range of artists, including Béla Fleck, and even shared the stage with Jimmy Page and Robert Plant during a performance that required string players. “He (Robert Plant) doesn’t act like he’s a big deal. Page is more like an amazing musician type for us musicians. But Plant is just a more down to earth type of guy,” she said of the two famous rockers. “They were very nice. They were just ‘let’s get er done.’”
The Rhythm Behind the Fiddles
Beyond Boulder Creek, Bratt will also appear in May with the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers, a large ensemble dedicated to traditional Scottish music. The group will perform May 10 at the
“Settlement Grants” from page 18 • Health Improvement Partnership of Santa Cruz County — $85,000 for SafeRx initiatives, including learning collaboratives, conferences, and advisory groups focused on treatment and community education. “These grants are helping organizations find innovative and compassionate solutions through prevention and treatment to tackle the opioid epidemic in our community,” said Community Foundation CEO Susan True. Leaders of individual programs emphasized the impact of the funding. “Employment is more than a paycheck — it’s a powerful health intervention,”
Crocker Theater in Aptos as part of its spring concert series, “Stravaig.” Founded in 1986 by renowned fiddler Alasdair Fraser, the ensemble now includes more than 200 members, with upwards of 65 musicians performing together onstage. This year’s concerts are led by Caroline McCaskey, a national champion who is stepping into the leadership role for the first time. “It’s like a big welcoming party with fiddles,” McCaskey said. “Everybody is invited.” The performances blend traditional Scottish and Irish tunes with broader Celtic influences, featuring fiddles alongside cello, piano, guitar and percussion. Bratt, who joined the group in the early 2000s, plays a key role as cello leader and arranger. “They all have to play the same part or it sounds like a mess,” she said, explaining her work writing cello arrangements to unify the large ensemble. Even though the performances in Boulder Creek and Aptos are vastly different, Bratt said she hopes audiences get very similar things out them. “I hope people feel hope, joy, a love of rhythm,” she said. “And an appreciation for music they might not have heard before.” The upcoming Concertino Strings performances are free to attend, with donations encouraged to support both the ensemble and improvements to the host church. n said Darrie Ganzhorn, executive director of Homeless Garden Project. Nadia Allami, pediatric medical director at Santa Cruz Community Health, said the grant strengthens collaboration with hospitals and ensures consistent care for families affected by neonatal abstinence syndrome. Stacey Palau, executive director of New Life Community Services, said the funding will expand bilingual, bicultural residential treatment and reentry services for individuals and families. n Residents seeking support for substance use disorders can visit the Santa Cruz County Opioid Prevention and Response webpage or call 2-1-1, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
STS9 on Tour With New Album
Legendary Santa Cruz Band Has One Show in California By JON CHOWN SANTA CRUZ — Santa Cruz-based band — that time for us was really important,” said Sound Tribe Sector Nine launch their national guitarist and keyboard player Hunter Brown, tour this month for their new album, Human founding member of the band. As flames swept through the Santa Dream, a reflection of one of the most harCruz Mountains in August 2020, some band rowing chapters in the band’s history. The tour will take the band to Phila- members had to evacuate their homes. At the same time, the band delphia; New Orleans; faced the possibility that Charleston, SC; and their newly built studio other stops mostly east in Westside Santa Cruz of the Mississippi River. could be destroyed. For local fans, there is “The fire was just one California stop crazy,” Brown said. on the tour, at a festival “We were worried it in Placerville in May. would be in jeopardy, Human Dream, so we moved everya 19-track release recorded in the group’s Sound Tribe Sector Nine • Photo Credit: Steve DiBartolomeo thing out and into my apartment.” Westside Santa Cruz The sudden scramble to protect instrustudio, was shaped by the upheaval of the CZU Lightning Complex fires — a disaster ments and recording equipment disrupted that forced band members from their homes, not only their workflow, but their sense threatened their creative space and ultimately of stability. Adding more uncertainty and consternation to the mix was the COVID-19 became embedded in the music itself. “What we went through with the CZU fire pandemic.
COMMUNITY NEWS “It was a fascinating, terrible thing to go through,” Rocklin said. “But all of that went into the record.” The recording represents a significant step for the band. It’s the first time they’ve recorded an album entirely within their Santa Cruz studio — a goal years in the making. Released in three parts over 2025, the album spans 19 tracks. “It’s our first album we did solely in Santa Cruz in our new studio,” Rocklin said. “We’re super excited about that process and digging into our whole vibe there.” For Brown, the project also signals a new creative phase. “It’s opening up the floodgates on a lot of music we haven’t released,” he said.
A Santa Cruz Identity
Though Sound Tribe Sector Nine formed in Atlanta, the band has long identified with Santa Cruz, where it relocated in the 1990s and has remained ever since. Brown said he first encountered the area on his first national tour and was immediately drawn in. “The beach, the trees and the weather were magical,” he said. He soon moved to Santa Cruz, joining a friend and eventually bringing the band with him. The group lived together in Watsonville in its early years and built its sound in the process. “The area really inspired us and influenced the music,” Brown said. “We’ve pretty much been in Santa Cruz ever since. I’ve now lived here longer than I did in Atlanta.” Rocklin, who joined the band in 2014, said
the connection to Santa Cruz is central to how the group sees itself. “We consider ourselves a Santa Cruz band,” she said. “That’s kind of how we view ourselves.” Today, Rocklin, when not on tour, splits her time between her home in Denver, where she relocated to after the CZU Fire, and Santa Cruz, where the band maintains its studio. She said the group keeps a deliberately low profile at home. They don’t dabble much on social media. “We don’t think of ourselves as celebrities. We can go anywhere,” she said. She said she’s more often recognized in Denver than in Santa Cruz. She recalled shopping for groceries at New Leaf Market when the checker noticed she was wearing an STS9 t-shirt. “Oh my god, I love that band! They are so awesome!” The checker exclaimed. Rocklin said she then had a short conversation about the band, never mentioning she was the bass player. “I always feel just very free in Santa Cruz,” she said.
A Mixed-Tape Type of Genre
Musically, STS9 doesn’t really stick to a genre. Hunter describes the band’s sound as “sort of soul, funk and jazz-influenced dance music,” rooted in a deep appreciation for classic records. “STS9” page 23
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Courtesy of Santa Cruz County
County Mum on Details of Fire Station Arson
County Records Show Surveillance Cameras Should Have Captured the Act By JON CHOWN SANTA CRUZ — The county isn’t sharing any information regarding the investigation into the arson attack on the Santa Cruz County Fire’s McDermott Station at 7276 Empire Grade Road. At approximately 4:43 a.m. on Wednesday, March 18, sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of a water tender engulfed in flames at the station. The fire had been extinguished by firefighters at the scene, but the 2024 Kenworth T48 Fouts Fire tanker was a complete loss. A search of the station was conducted and based on preliminary findings, the incident is believed to be arson. No injuries were reported and due to the rapid response of firefighters, the station itself was saved. While the building sustained some water and smoke damage, mitigation efforts are underway, and the county said that resources have been relocated to ensure there is no disruption to emergency services in the community. The Sheriff’s Office is working in coordination with the Santa Cruz County Fire Department and CAL FIRE investigators on the case. Ashley Keehn, public information
officer for the county, said the investigation was ongoing, but nothing else. Questions about what led investigators to believe it was arson, whether the station’s surveillance equipment was working and whether there was video were deliberately not answered. McDermott Station is located at the intersection of Empire Grade, Ice Cream Grade and Felton-Empire Road. The station was constructed in 2004. 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. 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. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Jordan Malone at 831-454-7636. n
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Citrus Trees: Dutifully Fruitful
SEACLIFF
By TONY TEMEO
W
inter is the primary season for citrus that are available for home gardening are fruits. Some ripen significantly more diverse than those that commonly grow earlier. Some ripen significantly in orchards. ‘Lisbon’ lemon is very profuse later. Many citrus trees continue to produce within season, so is preferable for orchards. a few fruits randomly throughout the year. ‘Eureka’ lemon, although a bit less productive, Nonetheless, citrus fruits are collectively most may be a preferable option for home gardens because it produces a few random abundant during winter. It seems fruit all year. odd that trees that are vulnerable Now that citrus are in to frost are so productive during season, some last longer than the coolest of weather. others. Grapefruit can hang on Citrus trees are fortunately their trees for months. They only marginally susceptible to actually develop richer flavor frost in only the cooler climates with mellowing tartness as here. They mostly recover from minor damage where they get Citrus are most abundant they age. Conversely, Mandarin orange and tangerine are the a bit too much chill. Those in through winter. coastal climates may never experience dam- most perishable citrus. Because the rind is aging frost. Some types of citrus are more loose, their pulp within begins to oxidize resilient to frost than others. Vulnerable citrus after ripening. Lime eventually gets pithy. Although this is the time of year to enjoy trees may need frost protection when new. Home garden citrus trees are different fresh citrus fruits, it is not the season to do from orchard trees. Most orchard trees, particu- much else with citrus trees. Pruning and larly older trees, are ‘standard’ trees. They grow application of fertilizer will be more timely on standard rootstock that allows them to get after winter. Premature pruning or use of ferlarger, and therefore produce more fruit than tilizer is likely to stimulate premature growth. ‘dwarf’ trees. Most home garden citrus trees Such growth either languishes through cool are ‘dwarf’ trees. They grown on dwarfing weather, or succumbs to mild frost. Horticulturist Tony Tomeo can be contacted rootstock that keeps them dense and compact. Furthermore, the many cultivars of citrus at tonytomeo.com.
“STS9” from page 21 “We kind of just worship the albums of the ’70s — Herbie Hancock, Miles Davis — and we love hip-hop,” he said. “I grew up on it.” He cited A Tribe Called Quest as a formative influence. “They kind of introduced me to jazz. I learned about records they were sampling. Now we study jazz. It’s a cornerstone of what we do.” Rocklin said that description fits — “but just throw in some Aphex Twin.” “It’s always a challenge to describe our music,” she said. “It’s really a collective of everything we grew up on. We grew up in the mixtape era. We do a mixtape of our love of music.” It’s the presentation of that mixed tape that fans love to see performed live. As the band tours nationally in support of Human Dream, their one stop in California will be at at the Golden Road Gathering held in Placerville in May. They will headline on Saturday, May 16. Leftover Salmon and Lettuce headline the other two nights. “We are always trying to play in California, and it was a great opportunity,” Rocklin said. “We’re glad we got to do it this year. All the other bands on the bill are incredible.” The organizers of GRG said fans
have noticed STS9 is on the bill and have responded. The festival has set a record this year with advanced ticket sales. “Their live performances transcend the typical concert experience,” said Bob Hollis of GRG. “STS9 takes the audience on an experiential journey. With this being their only California tour stop, we’re offering West Coast fans a chance to experience one of the most innovative and uncompromising bands on the road today, and in a beautiful setting.” Rocklin said the band has been looking forward to the performance. “We’ve got some special things in the works for California,” she said. Brown said STS9 continues to evolve while remaining grounded in its original vision. “Our first album is still kind of the core spirit of what we are trying to do,” Brown said. “We still play a lot of those songs live, but how we do it has evolved into something more refined and approachable.” At the same time, their connection to Santa Cruz remains a defining element. “Santa Cruz is a huge influence on our music and how we approach it,” Rocklin said. Brown agreed. “It’s definitely become part of the secret magic of the band. We’re really proud of that.” n
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BUSINESS PROFILE
F
Mid-County Senior Center
A Thriving Hub for Social, Recreational, and Educational Activities
or more than 50 years, the Mid-County Senior Center has been a cornerstone for adults seeking community and connection in Santa Cruz County. Founded in 1970 and moving to its current location in 1974, the nonprofit has grown into a vibrant activity center offering a wide range of programs. The center provides activities designed to engage the mind, body, and spirit. Members can participate in singing, dancing, and theatrical performances. Specialized classes, including Japanese flower arranging, memoir writing, and music appreciation, are offered throughout the year. There are games, and clubs like the Photo Club, Book Club, Ukulele Jam Club, and Nineties Club give participants even more opportunities to socialize and have fun. “We are not sponsored by any government agency,” said Bella Hughes, vice president of the center’s board of directors. “We’re a really friendly group.” Hughes said visitors feel welcome before they even walk in. It’s in a great location, near Nob Hill Grocery, and has plenty of parking. Fitness and wellness programs are a central part of the center. Senior Physical Fitness sessions focus on maintaining strength and stability through both seated and standing exercises, while Senior Stretch classes target flexibility, balance, and fall prevention using weights, straps, and bands. Gentle yoga, Tai Chi, and other movement
classes provide options suitable for a variety of physical abilities. “These things are really necessary for the people here, many who are over 80,” said Ana Alvarez, the center’s coordinator. “Every day you need to move. We have exercise programs at all levels. Whatever your ability, it’s important for seniors to keep moving.” The center also hosts a variety of social events, from St. Patrick’s Day dinners and breakfast fundraisers to barbecues and live music nights. Beyond entertainment, MCSC serves as a community resource, acting as
24 / April 1st 2026 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
a pickup site for the weekly Grey Bears’ Brown Bag food program and hosting Project Scout, an annual tax preparation program for seniors. Hughes said people love to visit. “We even have tourists stop by sometimes,” Hughes said. “It’s a great place to meet friends. It’s very social. In the springtime we have barbecues, and for 4th of July. Everybody is invited. You don’t have to be a member. We are very friendly here,” she said. MCSC operates entirely through volunteer support. Members are encouraged to share ideas, lead activities, attend meetings, and help on committees that manage it. The board of directors, elected by members, oversees operations and meets monthly to guide the center’s direction. The center is currently seeking volunteers to help in multiple areas. Current needs include instructors for conversational Spanish, music appreciation, and Tai Chi, as well as receptionists and cashiers for dances, Bingo, and other events. “We love the receptionists who volunteer and we need more. They’re the core,” said Hughes. “The whole place runs on volunteers.” MCSC depends on donations, fundraisers, membership fees, and hall rentals to sustain its programs. The nonprofit does not receive government funding and is not affiliated with any political, religious, or governmental organization. Tax-deductible donations help fund activities, maintain facilities, and support community programs. The center also offers commemorative bricks in the Tribute Patio garden for members wishing to leave a lasting legacy. Hughes said the future of the center is bright, but it could use more members. Current membership is at 625. “That’s good, but we’d still like more,” she said.
Hughes said she got involved with the senior center because she was just bored and wanted something to do. She went in and saw a group playing cards who invited her to join in. Now she’s hooked and is there most days doing something. She said nothing is more important for seniors than to keep active, not only physically, but socially. “They are finding that isolation can actually kill you. Not having people to talk to or even to look at or see, it shortens your life span,” Hughes said. “So down at the senior center, we visit and do a lot of laughing. We really do.” n ••• For more information on membership, classes, or rentals, visit MCSC’s website or call 831-462-2433.
FEATURED COLUMNIST
Soquel Creek Water District Launches New Water Bill Assistance Program
A
From the Soquel Creek Water District
ccess to safe and reliable drinking water is something most of us don’t think about until the bill arrives. We turn on the tap to cook dinner, water the garden, or fill a glass, trusting that clean water will always be there. Behind the scenes, however, providing that water requires significant infrastructure, ongoing maintenance, and careful management of our local groundwater supplies. As the cost of operating and maintaining
water systems continues to rise across California, we also recognize that affordability can be a real challenge for some households in our community. That’s why we are launching a new Customer Assistance Program (CAP) to help income-qualified households manage the cost of their water service. Beginning this year, eligible residential customers can receive a $50 monthly credit on their water bill. The program was created to provide meaningful support to
customers experiencing financial hardship while ensuring the District can continue maintaining the infrastructure and services that keep water safe and reliable for everyone. Importantly, this program is not funded through water rates. The assistance comes from non-rate revenues, meaning it does not increase the cost of water for other customers. The goal is to provide targeted help to those who need it while maintaining the financial stability
SENIOR BENEFITS
required to operate the water system for the entire community. Water utilities across California are increasingly recognizing the importance of water affordability programs. Just as energy utilities offer assistance programs for electricity and gas bills, water agencies are beginning to implement similar programs to help customers who may be struggling. “Water Bill Assistance” page 26
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ACROSS
1. Smacks 6. Marketing pop-ups 9. Kindred 13. Jeopardy 14. Dog foot 15. Threefold 16. Throat dangler 17. Mogul rider 18. Right-hand page 19. *Lady Gaga: “You and me could write a bad ____” 21. *Missy Elliott: “Get Ur ____ ____” 23. Exclamation of disgust 24. At the apex 25. Pérignon of champagne fame 28. Two-masted vessel
30. Cast out 35. Larger-than-life 37. Electrical resistance units 39. Star bursts 40. Silicate mineral 41. Alexander, for short 43. ____ of the valley 44. Sushi option 46. Alpine lift 47. Impose a tax 48. Forward and email, e.g. 50. Made in Vegas 52. Siren’s domain 53. Cajole 55. *Drake: “I need a ____ dance” 57. *Adele: “We could’ve had it all ____ in the deep” 61. *Olivia Rodrigo: “I got my ____...”
65. Earliest stage of sickness 66. Ribonucleic acid, acr. 68. Tipi, alt. sp. 69. Drugstore shampoo brand 70. Many, many moons 71. Witchy woman 72. ____ Spumante 73. Ovine mom 74. Chinese green tea
10. ____ the Can 42. Eagerness 11. *Ariana Grande: “’Cause 45. Stir up violence I’m so ____ you” 49. Knotts or McLean 51. Mole 12. Glowing gas 15. Trephination tool 54. Come to terms 20. *Maroon 5: “The ____ 56. Each and all that controlled my mind” 57. Parks of Civil Rights 22. Actor Lowe fame 24. Sheriff of Nottingham’s 58. Blame collection container 59. Law school prerequisite, acr. 25. Raise doubts 26. Suppose 60. Denim innovator DOWN 27. #40 Across, pl. 61. Copenhagen native 62. “Iliad,” e.g. 1. Horse prod 29. *Pink: “So ____? I’m 2. Left, Latin prefix still a rock star” 63. Nevada city 3. ____ lily 31. Long-lasting Steelers 64. “As ____ on TV” 4. Pilaff or plov coach 67. *Gotye: “____you’re just 5. Colloquially 32. Brown and such somebody that I used to know” 6. Location of altar 33. Topical remedy 7. ____ Prescott of Dallas 34. *OutKast: “____ ____!” 36. *The Killers: “Comin’ out Cowboys 8. Swiftie’s idol of my ____” © Statepoint Media 9. Geometric calculation 38. Food fish
Answers on 31 »
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / April 1st 2026 / 25
Aries, Passover, Holy Week, Easter (Resurrection) & Beyond Esoteric Astrology • April 2026 • By Risa D’Angeles
A
s the Aquarian era/age unfolds, festivals and religions of past ages (Jewish Passover and Christian Mass) are combining with the new Aquarian festivals (Three Spring Festivals, new and full moons, astrology). It is a unifying of religions, laws and festivals, forming the foundation of the new spirituality (occult) and religion of Aquarius. During the first week of April 2026, all three ages (Aries, Pisces and Aquarius) and religious festivals are occurring simultaneously forming the new Aquarian religion. It is all based on astrology, the language and tool of Aquarius. Below are the events for Holy Week (biblical). The events of Holy Week are both actual historical facts and also spiritual directions for humanity. Each biblical event in Christ’s life is both an Initiation and contains a message for humanity today. And so ... Wednesday (April 1) — full moon, Aries solar festival — the first of the Three Spring (Aries, Taurus, Gemini) Festivals, the esoteric Easter Resurrection festival. During Aries, the Forces of Restoration stream into the Earth. Wednesday is also the first night of Passover, the Jewish Festival of freedom from slavery and leaving Egypt (Taurus Age) for the Promised Land (Aries Age). Thursday (Last Supper) — the Christ (Pisces World Teacher) gathered His disciples and celebrated Jewish Passover, but with a new and higher level of
ARIES
teachings. Christ initiated the Christian priesthood, the Catholic Mass and communion — the new Pisces religion. Friday, Crucifixion of the Christ — The “veil was rent” meaning the door to return to the Father (heaven) opened, a reality impossible before then. Saturday — the Christ lay in the tomb, the churches are dark, there is no light. Christ is in the underworld “saving” the lost ones. Sunday, the Resurrection Festival (Easter) — And the tomb was empty –the Christ informing humanity there is no death of the Soul and Spirit. Only the easing out of the physical body and one’s return to the Father’s house. After His Resurrection, the Christ lived for 50 years with His disciples in the Judean hills. He taught them to demonstrate and teach the Pisces law to “love one another.” Each age (2,500 years) has a new law for humanity. In Aries, the 10 Commandments. In Pisces, the Law of Love. In Aquarius, the Aquarian Laws and Principles. We are to follow all three now. And soon, the Reappearance. n ••• Read Risa’s daily writings on FB & at https://nightlightnews.org/ daily-postings/
LEO
The next three months see you working internally, spiritually, sliding behind veils and protecting yourself so you can once again at a later time reveal yourself to the world with new ideas, thoughts, processes, workings and above all a new identity. Be aware of these fluidic shifts both within and without. When summer comes you’re going to communicate a new way of life, new values, new money and new ways to create the foundation of the next civilization.
Pluto is a transforming presence in your house of relationships. I wonder how this is for your sense of self? It seems it’s time for you to focus upon relationships of all types. They expand you, bring you fortune, they even wound sometimes. But that’s part of their purpose. From relationships the planet swings into your house of shared resources and money. Are you sharing with another? Are your insurance papers, health papers, finances in order? Tend to them now before your values and philosophies change.
TAURUS
You are behind a few veils, behind the scenes, being private and hidden so you can contemplate the future, which in many ways is still unformed. There is a new sensitivity and empathy felt. Your inner self wants to give to those in need without expectations of being noticed, known or even thanked. Giving regenerates us. Perhaps you are harboring a private and secretive love affair, or perhaps it’s only in your mind. Write love letters to this secret person. Faith and religion and spiritual things nourish. Do all these things with gratitude.
VIRGO
More and more you’re part of groups. In fact they call to you and although you may be tired, and at times a bit down, you challenge yourself to participate. Here/there you learn a lot, become active with forward thinkers like yourself, set yourself new goals for the future, change previous beliefs, and set about creating ways for people to live efficiently. You’ll be focused on alternative ways of living, biological architecture, new communities, the ways of water.
LIBRA
GEMINI You are learning new things. And this will continue. Through discussions with people, perhaps great learned people, shamans, those who till the land, teachers and mentors, a new world opens up and this is both a surprise and a comfort. You realize others are interested in your life, thoughts, organization (it’s growing) and how you see yourself. Who you thought you were in the past is passing. A new self-identity is forming. Take extra care with health and well-being.
SCORPIO
CANCER Will you travel or will you not? Will you expand your area of interests even though there may be a wound of self-identity involved or a state of unknowing? Are you seeking right livelihood in areas that reflect you or in areas others expect you to work? Are you asking what your role in the future is? If you ask yourself what you want it to be, then the answer begins to emerge slowly, in dreams, visions and in words on a page. What do you want to become?
Daily & Weekly Updates
You may feel the need to study new things, new thoughts, new ideas, astrology even, and bring the future into your daily life. Study would heal sorrows and wounds, bring your ideals into closer focus, and set you upon the path you clearly chose before coming into this lifetime. New ideas appear into your mind like revelations. This is Venus, your ruler, nudging you into integrating work and serving others. Should you do this, a new confidence surges through you. You atomic structure changes. A new fire appears within. You wish for fun and romance and having a good time. This brings forth your creative self-expression, it makes you happy and when you’re happy people notice a sort of golden light emanating from you. You seek love and humor and the warmth of companionship. These are available everywhere, but to see them you must provide them first. Your greatest joy will be how you express creatively through your talents and gifts. What are they? Something’s hidden. What is it? Think about preparing for a long warm vacation. Perhaps Italy.
•••
SAGITTARIUS
You will seek comfort from what you consider to be home and family. You will create a home wherever you are; invite others to come into your inner sanctum (just a few, of course, you must be careful and trust them first). You seek to understand the foundations of your family, that which helped you grow, and will create a new foundation of new values, comforts and things that nourish. There may be a move, new dwellings may be constructed, a family reunion would be good, forgiveness, too, which would tend to your inner well-being. Study and ponder upon underground homes and gardens.
CAPRICORN
Your intelligence and skills increase exponentially as you enter into new studies. New knowledge is needed to build the new culture and civilization. You will, as you learn more, teach others, expanding their knowledge, thus inviting them to be part of the new era being built. You are a scholar. Walk through neighborhoods, becoming familiar with them and the people living there. Photograph, draw and paint aspects of these neighborhoods that are harmonious. Design a village, a community, an ashram. Creating an entire new neighborhood with biologic architecture and the ideas in Christopher Alexander’s books.
AQUARIUS
Your personal values, finances, resources and possessions that bring comfort are assessed and pondered upon. You are grateful and find yourself feeling more confident and productive. You seek more and greater ways to bring your abilities and gifts forth. Your talents are part of your value system. Consider how they will help bring forth the new era of livingness, one that must be entirely different than any past times we’ve lived in. Give abundantly to others in all ways. This assures that abundance is returned to you. Giving is the true value.
PISCES
You have experienced great changes in your life the past year. A new faith in the world and in yourself has expanded your reality, and previous challenging problems are being overcome. Now they are replaced with new challenges. You are creating a definite image of yourself as successful. Make sure that as much as has been given that you give to others in return – even ten times more. Do not overindulge, tend to diet and exercise, allow your carefree self not to be care-less. Tend to all things lawful. And think about how you will help build the new world for humanity. You are one of its leaders.
@risagoodwill • www.nightlightnews.org • risagoodwill@gmail.com
26 / April 1st 2026 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
“Water Bill Assistance” from page 25 The Customer Assistance Program operates on a fiscal year schedule from July 1 through June 30, and customers must apply each year to participate. Applications will be accepted during the open enrollment period from May 1 through May 31 for the upcoming fiscal year. Because funding for the program is limited, applications will be approved on a first-come, first-served basis until the annual program budget is fully allocated. Each year, the District’s Board of Directors will determine the amount of funding available for the program as part of the annual budget process. To qualify for the program, applicants must meet several eligibility requirements: • Be enrolled in either the PG&E CARE program (which provides reduced energy bills for income-qualified households) or CalFresh, California’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. • The water service address must be the applicant’s primary residence. Second homes, vacation properties, and nonowner-occupied investment properties are not eligible. • Have a residential water account in the name of the adult living at the service address. • Have an account that is current or enrolled in a payment plan. • Be enrolled in the District’s WaterSmart online customer portal and autopay program. • For multi-family properties, live in a dwelling unit that is individually metered and billed directly to the resident applying for the program. Once approved, the $50 assistance credit will be applied directly to the customer’s monthly water bill beginning in July. The credit cannot exceed the amount owed for that billing period, and any unused portion will not carry over to future months. Customers who move from one qualifying residence within the District to another may remain in the program as long as their eligibility continues and there is no break in residency. If you think you may qualify, applications will be available during the May enrollment period on the District’s WaterSmart website at https://soquelcreekwd.watersmart.com. Log in or create a new account (you will need your account number for a new account), go to the “Services and Forms” tab and fill out the CAP form. Applicants will need to provide documentation showing enrollment in either the PG&E CARE or CalFresh programs. Water is a basic necessity that supports the health and well-being of every household in our community. Programs like the Customer Assistance Program help ensure that when families face financial challenges, access to this essential service is not put at risk. n ••• If you or someone you know may qualify, we encourage you to apply during the open enrollment period (May 1-31) and take advantage of the support available.
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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / April 1st 2026 / 27
COMMUNITY CALENDAR Saturdays and Sundays ELKHORN SLOUGH: FREE TOUR OF THE PRESERVE 10 a.m. | 11 a.m., Elkhorn Slough Reserve, 1700 Elkhorn Road, DROP-IN EVENING FIGURE DRAWING Watsonville 7–9:30 p.m., Santa Cruz Art League, 526 Broadway Docent-led tours offer visitors a guided introduction to “Wonderful opportunity to work on drawing with a Elkhorn Slough’s remarkable landscapes, wildlife, and model, facilitated by a friendly instructor who created BINGO AT MCSC Fridays (except First Friday of the Month) tidal wetlands. a warm atmosphere for all.” 1-3 p.m., Mid County Senior Center, 829 Bay Avenue, Capitola LA SELVA BEACH LIBRARY BRIDGE GROUP Each walk is tailored to participants’ interests — Evening Figure Drawing participant (behind the Party Store) 10:30-Noon, La Selva Beach Public Library, 316 Estrella Ave. and abilities, creating an engaging, educational Beginner to professional artists are welcome for these Hot Dogs, Chili and snacks available for purchase Come for bridge from 10:30 to noon at the La Selva experience. drop-in figure drawing sessions. Instruction courtesy of our Snack Shack. A lot of fun for all and a Beach library. Space is limited, and tours are first-come, firstand/or critique will not be offered. possible big win! Call La Selva Beach Library to reserve your seat: 831-427-7710. served. Monday Evening Long Pose (March Door opens at 12:15 p.m. Guests can sign up at the Visitor Center front desk or 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30) — Drop-in session First and Third Fridays call ahead the same morning at (831) 728-2822 for of drawing or painting from a live nude JIM GREINER’S HANDS-ON! DRUMMING availability. model including long and short poses. 7-8:30 p.m., Congregational Church of Soquel, 4951 Soquel Dr. Thursday Evening Long Pose (March 5) — An evening of Percussionist/educator Jim Greiner continues his Comlong poses for painting and drawing with a live model holding DATED EVENTS munity Rhythms Class on the first and third Fridays of either one 2-hour or two 1-hour poses during the evening. every month at the Congregational Church of Soquel. Wednesday April 1 This session provides an opportunity for artists to create more April’s sessions are on the Apr. 3 and 17. detailed studies or focus their drawings or paintings. SPECIAL LUNCHEON WITH CONGRESSMAN JIMMY PANETTA All levels of experience are very welcome to this familyThursday Evening Gesture Study (March 19) — This 12–1:30 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Drive, Aptos friendly community gathering. Jim provides percussion session provides a great opportunity to practice capturing The Aptos Chamber of Commerce will host a luncheon instruments and you are welcome to bring your own. the essence and simplicity of the pose, rather than rendering featuring Congressman Jimmy Panetta, Come play, socialize and reinforce Jim’s fundamental the complexity and detail of the form. More like poetry than Thursdays themes of communicating, collaborating and celebrating who will discuss current national and prose! The format for this evening will be a series of 1 minute SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING global issues and their impact on the through rhythm! poses, transitioning to 2, 3, and 5 minute poses. local community. 7:15-9:15 p.m., Peace United Church 900 High St, Santa Cruz. $10 donation is requested. Doors open at 6:30. Facilitated by Mark Sangster and Emily Cafaro. Attendees will have an opportunity Beginners welcome, partners not required. Cost: $20 per session. to hear directly from the congressman $10 each. Come dance! First Saturdays Attendance is limited, so come early or register in and connect with local leaders and CAPITOLA BEACH CLEANUP Jimmy Panetta advance to be sure of a space. Easels are available. residents. Registration is required. HAPPY HOUR 9-10 a.m., Esplanade Park Painters, please do not use strong-smelling solvents. For details, visit AptosChamber.com or call 831-688-1467. 5-7 p.m., California Coffee, 9105 Soquel Drive, Aptos Help preserve and maintain the coastal beauty Visit https://scal.org/dropin-workshops for more information. California Coffee in Redwood Village hosts an open mic of Capitola. Join a beach cleanup every month at happy hour every week. Thursday April 2 Esplanade Park. ONGOING EVENTS Keep Capitola Salty is a grassroots movement dedicated MARTY O’REILLY AND ALEX LUCERO AT MOE’S ALLEY Third Thursdays 8–11 p.m., Moe’s Alley, 1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz to responsible efforts helping to maintain and preserve Mondays SIP AND STROLL the environment, scenic beauty and coastal recreational Catch local artist Marty O’Reilly, known from Season 28 of BRIDGE CLUB 6-9 p.m. (check-in 5 p.m.), Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion The Voice, live at Moe’s Alley, joined by soulful Americana activities of Capitola. 10:30 a.m.-Noon, 7695 Soquel Dr, Aptos, CA 95003 Court, Aptos vocalist Alex Lucero. This movement is always looking for volunteers. Email The Aptos Branch Library Come to the Seacliff Inn: Tapestry Collection by Hilton, for KeepCapitolaSalty@gmail.com. Experience heartfelt, authentic music that captivates and hosts Bridge Club sessions a Sip & Stroll event where local artists to show and sell moves the audience. on Mondays (except holidays). their works. Second Saturdays Doors open at 7 p.m. Bridge Club is a partWines are 30% off, and the featured winery will offer HISTORICAL AIRCRAFT DISPLAY Tickets and more information are available at moesalley.com or nership between Santa Cruz tastings of three varietals for $10 per person. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Watsonville Municipal Airport, 100 Aviation Way ticketweb.com. County Parks and Santa Cruz Details of this and more Sevy’s events at www.sevysbarand Watsonville Municipal Airport hosts a Historical Aircraft Public Libraries. kitchen.com/events Friday April 3 Display every second Saturday. Admission is free. Register at scparks.com or in-person the day of the event. THE GARDEN AT QUARRY AMPHITHEATER OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS 7–10 p.m., Quarry Amphitheater, 1156 High St, Santa Cruz WEEKLY FARMERS’ MARKETS 7 p.m., Congregational Church Preschool Meeting Room, 4951 Catch The Garden, a fast, punk-influenced two-piece Soquel Ave., Soquel WEDNESDAYS band, live at the Quarry Amphitheater. Overeaters Anonymous welcomes any type of eating Known for their energetic, off-the-wall performances DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ — 1 – 5 PM, Cedar St. & Church St. disorder or problems with food. worldwide, they embrace “vada vada,” a philosophy of total A bustling market featuring certified organic produce, artisanal No dues, fees or weigh-ins. creative freedom without boundaries. foods, seafood, baked goods, flowers, and prepared foods. EBT/SNAP Meetings take place at Congregational Church in the Enjoy a night of high-energy music and unique accepted, and Market Match doubles purchases (up to $10). Free entry; preschool meeting room. expression. metered and garage parking available — free after 6 PM. Live local All are welcome. For tickets and details, visit quarryamp.com or theband’s official music and street closures add vibrant atmosphere. Full vendor list and Overeaters Anonymous (OA) has meetings daily both in-person site. updates at santacruzfarmersmarket.org. and on-line in Santa Cruz County at santacruzoa.org FRIDAYS WATSONVILLE (Certified) — 3 – 7 PM, Peck St & Main St. Saturday April 4 Fourth Mondays Allyear market offering Watsonville-grown produce, seafood, dairy, flowers, hot foods, artisan goods. Free entry; EASTER ON THE FARM THE SPOKEN EXPERIENCE metered parking available. EBT/SNAP + Market Match. Vendor news via local AARP events. 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Noon – 1 p.m., Capitola Branch Library, 2005 Wharf Rd SATURDAYS Avenue, Watsonville Each month a community of readers gather to share WESTSIDE SANTA CRUZ — 9 AM – 1 PM, Mission St Ext & Western Dr. Families are invited to celebrate Easter with egg hunts, selections from a featured poet. Yearround market offering 100% certified-organic produce, seafood, meats, flowers, prepared meals, espresso crafts, puppet shows and tractor rides during this special Join local poets Paola Bruni, Elaine Fletcher Chapman bar, and artisan goods. Free parking on site. EBT/SNAP + Market Match. Often hosts pop-up breakfast events. Agricultural History Project event. and Jessica Cohn as they lead the discussion. Perfect for starting your weekend with fresh food and community energy. Full details at santacruzfarmersmarket.org. Visitors can meet farm animals, explore exhibits and enjoy Upcoming poet focus: APTOS (at Cabrillo College) — 8 AM – Noon, 6500 Soquel Drive hay wagon rides. Bring a picnic and browse the gift shop. March 23: Eavan Boland Celebrated coastal market with over 90 vendors selling produce, sustainable seafood, artisan breads, honey, Admission is free. April 27: Arthur Sze, current U.S. Poet Laureate meats, flowers, and hot food. EBT/WIC accepted. Free/year-round weekend oasis for local flavors and crafts. Hosted For more information, visit aghistoryproject.org. by MontereyBayFarmers. Tuesdays SUNDAYS MUSIC IN NORTH AFRICA: FROM CULTURAL MIXITY TUESDAY NIGHT SALSA SOCIAL LIVE OAK/EASTSIDE — 9 AM – 1 PM, 15th & East Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz TO POLITICAL EXPRESSION 7 – 10 p.m., Abbott Square Market, 725 Front St., Santa Cruz Vibrant seaside Sunday market featuring organic produce, fresh seafood, hot food stands (Mexican, crepes, 3–4 p.m., Capitola Library, 2005 Wharf Road, Capitola Join a midweek salsa social at Abbott Square Market with brunch), pastries, coffee, flowers. Free parking, EBT/SNAP, Market Match, and monthly family-oriented events. Professor Muriam H. Davis of UC Santa Cruz presents salsa, cumbia, merengue, and bachata. WATSONVILLE FAIRGROUNDS — 9 AM – 4 PM, 2601 E Lake Ave, Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds an engaging talk on North African music, exploring its Free and open to all skill levels—just bring energy and Year-round market with wide selection of local produce, meats, seafood, crafts, and prepared foods. EBT/SNAP cultural diversity and political influence from the colonial dancing shoes. accepted. Parking onsite. Great for combining a market visit with other Fairgrounds activities. era to today. More information: www.abbottsquaremarket.com
ANNOUNCEMENTS
28 / April 1st 2026 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
Have a virtual or live event you want to promote? E-mail info (no PDFs please) to info@cyber-times.com
COMMUNITY CALENDAR potluck open to everyone, whether you’re an experienced baker or just trying your hand. Attendees are encouraged to bring at least one dessert per group, share recipes, and enjoy a relaxed afternoon of good food and conversation. The event fosters community connection in a fun, no-pressure environment. Tickets are free, though donations are appreciated to help cover venue and event costs. For more information or to register, visit santacruzbakegather. com or Eventbrite.
The presentation includes musical examples and context. Registration is recommended. For more information, visit santacruzpl.libnet.info.
Wednesday April 8 MEET THE AUTHOR: VERLIN DARROW 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., Porter Memorial Library, 305 Porter St., Aptos Verlin Darrow shares a first glimpse of his upcoming legal thriller inspired by his work as a psychotherapist. Programs are informal coffee hours, free, and open to all. Coffee provided by The Ugly Mug. More information: portermemoriallibrary.org.
Saturday April 11 BASIC COMPOSTING 1–3 p.m., Aptos Library, 7695 Soquel Drive Learn the basics of composting in this hands-on workshop covering backyard and worm composting. Led by experienced Master Composters, the session includes time for questions and practical tips to get started. Registration is limited to 25 participants. Sign up online at https://santacruzpl.libnet.info/event/14423397 or call 831-824-6484 for more information. THE RED BALL: 30TH ANNIVERSARY GALA 6–11:30 p.m., Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History at the McPherson Center, 705 Front St. The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History celebrates its 30th anniversary with The Red Ball gala, an evening of immersive art, dining and entertainment. Guests will enjoy installations, live performances, magic, cocktails and a seated dinner, plus silent and live auctions. Music by DJ Spooky will close the night with dancing in the sculpture garden. For tickets and details, visit santacruzmah.org.
EMMYLOU HARRIS AT SANTA CRUZ CIVIC AUDITORIUM Saturday April 18
8–11:30 p.m., Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church Street, Santa Cruz Emmylou Harris, acclaimed singer-songwriter and country music icon, brings her legendary voice to Santa Cruz. With over 15 million records sold, 14 Grammy Awards, 3 CMA Awards, and 4 Americana Awards, Harris is celebrated for her artistry and influence. For tickets and more information, search for Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium or visit https://www.emmylouharris.com.
Tuesday April 14
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 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.
The event includes a virtual filmmaker appearance and discussion led by Library Director Christopher Platt. Light CAPITOLA SOROPTIMIST CLUB MEETING refreshments provided. 4–5 p.m., United Way of Santa Cruz County, 4450 Capitola Road, Registration is recommended. Suite 106, Capitola For details, visit santacruzpl.libnet.info. Soroptimist International of Capitola-by-the-Sea hosts a free, Sunday April 26 public meeting to plan its Dream It, Be It Program, empow- THE LIBRARIANS FILM SCREENING AND DISCUSSION DUO PIANISTS FITENKO AND ZAITSEVA ering girls with tools for education and career success. 6:30–8 p.m., Capitola Library, 2005 Wharf Road, Capitola 4 p.m., Peace United Church, 900 High Street, Santa Cruz The club is part of a global volunteer network supporting Celebrate National Library Week with a screening of The Sunday April 12 women and girls. Librarians, exploring censorship and book policies across the U.S. Distinguished Artists Concerts celebrates its 40th season SPRING FLING — OPEN TALENT MIC EVENT For more information, visit best4women.org or email The event includes a virtual filmmaker appearance and with duo pianists Nikita Fitenko and Katerina Zaitseva. 2–4 p.m., Market Street Theater, 222 Market Street, Santa Cruz sicapitola.by.the.sea@gmail.com. The program features works by Rachmaninoff, Ravel and discussion led by Library Director Christopher Platt. Light The Market Street Theater and Senior Center hosts Gershwin, including Suite No. 1, La Valse and selections refreshments provided. its Spring Fling — Open Talent Mic, welcoming from Porgy and Bess. Monday April 15 Registration is recommended. performers of all ages to share music, dance, poetry, Tickets are available online. For details, visit santacruzpl.libnet.info. AN EVENING OF HOPE: A FILM & PANEL DISCUSSION or comedy. For more information, visit distinguishedartists.org. 7–9:30 p.m., Grand Theater at the Del Mar Downtown, 1125 A $5 donation supports MSSC programs. Friday April 24 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz Performers can submit an MP3 or bring a CD. Saturday May 9 The Homeless Garden Project hosts a screening of National FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY AT SKYPARK For questions or participation, contact Henry at henry95062@ MAR VISTA ELEMENTARY 60TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Geographic’s Emmy-nominated documentary The Hope, 4:30–8 p.m., Skypark, 361 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley gmail.com. followed by a panel with community leaders and a current Food Trucks A Go Go launches the 2026 Food Truck Friday 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 season with an evening of local cuisine, live music by JEFFREY HALFORD & THE HEALERS WITH SPECIAL GUEST trainee from HGP’s transitional employment program. inviting any and all alum, former Proceeds support job training and housing programs for Shady Rest Band, and family-friendly activities. MICHAEL GAITHER people experiencing homelessness. Held monthly through October, the series also supports employees and associates to attend a 4 p.m., Moe’s Alley, 1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz celebration of the school’s past and a More information is available at www.homelessgardenproject.org. local schools through beverage sales. Moe’s Alley presents a special Sunday matinee featuring fundraiser to help it into the future. Admission is free. Americana singer-songwriter Jeffrey Halford & The The event is being organized by a committee consisting Thursday April 23 For more information, visit foodtrucksagogo.com. Healers, with special guest Michael Gaither. of teachers representing each decade Mar Vista has Halford, with three decades of experience and multiple UNITED IN PURPOSE AWARDS existed. European tours, brings his chart-topping sound to Santa 5 p.m., Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton Saturday April 25 For more current and future information, search for Mar Vista SIX IS FOR 6ENOCIDE: POETRY BY DANIEL REYES Cruz for an intimate afternoon show. United Way of Santa Cruz County will honor community Elementary’s 60th Anniversary Alumni Event on Facebook. Doors open at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 leaders, volunteers and advocates at its annual United in 1:30–3 p.m., Capitola Library, 2005 Wharf Road, Capitola at the door. Purpose Awards. Poet Daniel Reyes reads from SIX is for 6enocide, a Sunday May 17 For tickets and details, visit moesalley.com or ticketweb.com. The evening begins with a scenic train ride through powerful collection addressing violence, memory and PIANIST RACHEL BREEN BENEFIT CONCERT the redwoods, followed by a dinner buffet and awards resistance. AUTHOR VISIT WITH MOLLY SALANS: A BREAK IN THE FOG ceremony recognizing individuals who support opportuThe event includes a reading, discussion, book signing 4 p.m., Peace United Church of Christ, 900 High Street, Santa Cruz nities for youth and families. and refreshments. 2–3:30 p.m., Capitola Library, 2005 Wharf Road, Capitola Laureate of the 2025 Queen Elisabeth Competition, pianist Tickets: givebutter.com/c/United_Way_SCC_Awards_2026. Registration is recommended, with walk-ins welcome. Local author Molly Salans discusses her psychological Rachel Breen performs works by Bach, Beethoven and For more information, visit santacruzpl.libnet.info. thriller A Break in the Fog, inspired by her experience in Chopin in a benefit concert for the Distinguished Artists THE LIBRARIANS FILM SCREENING AND DISCUSSION a cult. SANTA CRUZ BAKE & GATHER Concert Foundation. The event includes a reading, discussion, book signing 6:30–8 p.m., Capitola Library, 2005 Wharf Road, Capitola Tickets are $40 online, with pay-what-you-can and refreshments. Celebrate National Library Week with a screening of The 12–3 p.m., Midtown Community Center, 115 South Morrissey admission available at the door. Registration is recommended, with walk-ins welcome. Librarians, exploring censorship and book policies across Ave., Santa Cruz For details, visit distinguishedartists.org. n Santa Cruz Bake & Gather is a friendly cake and pie For more information, visit santacruzpl.libnet.info. the U.S.
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / April 1st 2026 / 29
COMMUNITY NEWS
Council Approves Revised Zoning Plan at Capitola Mall City, Developer Seek a Happy Medium for Future Success
T
By JON CHOWN
he Capitola City Council on March 16 approved major zoning and land-use changes for the Capitola Mall, adopting a slate of revisions designed to make the property easier to build housing on in order to advance the city’s state-mandated housing goals. “I think this is one of the biggest decisions that I think maybe any City Council in Capitola might ever have made,” said Vice Mayor Gerry Jensen. The action followed a public hearing on Feb. 23 when council members were ready to rezone the mall. ... continues on page 4 But a decision was then delayed after Merlone Geier Partners, which owns a majority of the property, submitted a late letter requesting 10 changes to the proposed rezoning. After deliberation by the council, the plan was sent back to city staff, which met with the developer in the intervening weeks and returned with a modified plan that incorporated many of the developers suggestions. The new zoning changes are meant to transform the mall property into a highdensity, mixed-use area with more than 1,700 housing units, accompanying commercial space and hopefully a large hotel. At the
A graphic showing how close buildings can be from Clares Street, 41st Avenue and Capitola Road.
center of the new plan is a tiered redevelopment system intended to encourage a mix of housing, retail and hospitality uses. It also intends to reduce the visual impact of taller buildings that could be approved, such as an 85-room hotel. Tier 1 allows residential-only development. Tier 2 and Tier 3 allow increased building heights and more residential density in exchange for including specified amounts of commercial space and, in some cases, hotel development. As revised, Tier 2 projects now must include between 25,000 and 35,000 square feet of new commercial space, down from the 30,000 SF threshold of the previous plan. It’s one of the requests the developer made. Other requests were also granted. Minimum ground-floor height requirements for required commercial space were reduced from 18 feet to 16 feet. Staff said the adjustment would still support a range of tenants while reducing construction costs. Requested changes were also made to the “perimeter zone,” where lower height limits apply along surrounding streets. The depth of the perimeter zone was reduced from 125 feet to 75 feet along 41st Avenue and Capitola Road, allowing taller buildings to be located closer to those corridors. The deeper 125-foot buffer was retained along Clares Street. Within the site, building heights can reach up to 75 feet in most areas, with certain commercial uses, such as hotels, permitted up to 85 feet under Tier 3. The council also approved revisions
30 / April 1st 2026 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
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to how residential density is calculated, allowing developers to include public rightsof-way, easements and publicly accessible open space in the overall site area. Staff said the change could encourage open space without reducing space for new housing. The city mostly kept its previous standards requiring buildings designed to face the street with pedestrian-oriented entrances and varied façades, as well as limitations on surface parking between buildings and streets. And despite requests from the property owner, the council retained requirements for dedicated bicycle lanes on new internal streets, citing the need to accommodate more bicycles and pedestrians in the denser, mixed-use environment. New phasing requirements were also adopted to ensure that commercial and hotel components are developed alongside housing. However, the City Council was cautious, recognizing that every demand might make the project less desirable to build. “I worry that we won’t get a project if we make it so difficult,” said Council member Melinda Orbach. The city coffers will take a hit during the development, according to city staff, who projected a temporary reduction in sales tax revenue of about $400,000 annually when businesses are closed. Capitola resident Kevin Mcguire voiced some concern, not just about the short-term, but the long-term effects. “It seems like we have really good sales revenue from the mall right now. So to lose 300,000-plus square feet of retail, and lose those jobs, to go down to
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30,000-40,000 square feet, that doesn’t seem to add up,” he said. James Gwilliam, representing MGP, assured the city that the project would be an asset and not a drain on the community. “We are fully committed to making this a project that the city is proud of,” he said. “We want a hotel to happen. … We’re happy with the work that gone into this. Hopefully the feedback we’ve provided has been helpful. We want to continue to be a part of this process as it moves forward.” The zoning changes will help Capitola meet the requirements of the city’s Housing Element for 2023-2031. Under California law, every city must update its Housing Element every eight years to assess housing needs, identify adequate sites for development and adopt programs to meet current and future demand. Capitola must plan for 1,336 housing units, including 497 units for low-income households, 169 for moderate-income households and 455 above moderate-income, or market-rate, units. Cities don’t have to build the housing but are required to properly zone and accommodate the construction of it. If a city doesn’t have a Housing Element in place, or doesn’t follow it, developers can use a variety of new laws to bypass local control and construct projects without much regard for zoning or setback requirements. Parking requirements may be reduced, and noise concerns may not be considered. Jensen noted that the plan for mall housing doesn’t include much that will be affordable. “What I hear constantly is the housing is too expensive, and I’m not convinced that a ‘build more to lower the prices’ or a ‘supply and demand’ analogy is the best plan of action for our community,” he said. Council member Joe Clarke agreed and said he, too had a number of concerns and wondered if the council shouldn’t “pump the brakes a bit” on the whole idea. However, with the alterations adopted by the City Council, the zoning changes were approved unanimously. The council determined the action is exempt from CEQA because it implements the Housing Element. n
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ilbur (A287754) and Rosie (A287750) are white Vietnamese potbelly pigs who’d love to have a new rural home to call their own! As fully-grown adult pigs, they each weigh over 160 lbs, and they’re intelligent and fun pets to have around. Rosie is 5 years old and is actually mother to Wilbur, who is 4, so their bond is strong and they enjoy one another’s company. They’ve also lived with pig-friendly dogs, cats, and goats. Wilbur has been neutered, so there won’t be any additions to their family if they’re the only pigs around. Although sometimes kept as household pets in urban or suburban areas, pigs — even small-breed pigs like these two — are usually happiest when they live on rural properties where there’s space to explore and root around, where they have a safe indoor place to stay at night (like a barn or a shed), a muddy wallow to cool themselves in, and where they’ll get a healthy, varied diet. A healthy pot belly pig diet usually consists of pig pellets, lots of fresh water, plenty of fresh vegetables like leafy greens, carrots, cucumbers and bell peppers, and fruit as an occasional treat. They’ll also happily help themselves to insects, worms, grubs and even eggs or small rodents if they can get their snouts on them. Although they’ll eat just about anything, they are highly susceptible to obesity and other serious diet-related health problems, so it’s important that owners be thoughtful. They should NOT be fed dog or cat food, nor processed human foods. With decent care pigs can be expected to live 14 to 18 years, so you’ve got to be ready to commit! You also need to check your local zoning codes and/or with your homeowners’ association before you bring a pig home — in unincorporated Santa Cruz County, for example, pigs are only allowed on properties zoned “Agricultural Residential.” So, if you”ve gotten yourself to be pig-savvy and live on a “piggable” property, consider Rosie & Wilbur! They’re a bonded pair, so they can be adopted together for a single $100 adoption fee. n ••• The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is full of adoptable animals. Fostering animals is an awesome way to improve a Shelter animal’s life and fill your home with love and fun! If you are interested in fostering any kind of animal please email jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us. You can also Follow SCCAS on Instagram and/or Facebook to stay up-to-date on shelter news and where to find adoptable pets around town at breweries, stores and events. All adoptions are first come, first served. ••• Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s full-service, open-admission shelter 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 • Hours: Daily 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. (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
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