Aptos Times: November 15, 2025

Family Owned For 34 Years • Aptos, La Selva Beach, Corralitos, Freedom & Watsonville

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November 15, 2025 • Vol 34 No. 22

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Aptos High Senior Turns Art into Access

When Aptos High School senior Hannah Levy looked around campus, she saw more than crowded stairwells and busy classrooms. She also saw stress.

Full Story page 8

County BESS Draft Ordinance Released

Veterans, along with family members and friends, march from Natural Bridges State Beach to the Britannia Arms in Capitola on Nov. 11.

Honoring Our Veterans

Full Story page 13

Santa Cruz County Remembers with Parades, Ceremonies

By Jon Chown The 81-year-old served in the U.S. Navy from 1963 to 1967.

“People ask me what was the worst part about Vietnam. I tell them it was coming home,” he said. “We weren’t very popular. We didn’t talk about it. People didn’t like us.” ... continues on page 4

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Buzz Gray was out early on Veterans Day, preparing to walk from Natural Bridges State Beach to the Britannia Arms in Capitola.

Gray started the organization Journey for Change nine years ago and every year leads a march to raise awareness of the link between veterans and suicide.

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Volume 34 No. 22

14

23

30

Table of Contents

7

Cover Honoring Our Veterans: Santa Cruz County Remembers with Parades, Ceremonies, By Jon Chown 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 16 18 22 23 26 27

Community News Supervisors Approve Dover Drive Speed Bumps in Live Oak, By Jon Chown All Kids Play 2025 Campaign Aims to Expand Park Access Aptos High Senior Turns Art into Access: Mural Project Connects Students to Mental Health Resources, By Tad Stearn Rancho Del Mar’s US Bank Robbed, By Jon Chown • Beware: Burglar Is Back in Aptos, By Jon Chown • Foul Play Suspected in Case of Missing Woman,

By Jon Chown Cabrillo College Seeks Applicants for Area V Trustee Seat • Cabrillo College Names Four Finalists for Superintendent/President Position Dominican Hospital Celebrates New Mobile Clinic, By Jon Chown County BESS Draft Ordinance Released: Creates Timeline for Approval of Minto Battery Storage Plant, By Jon Chown County Agencies Scramble to Feed Hungry: Nutritional Assistance Programs Available Countywide, By Jon Chown • Available Nutritional Resources Meals on Wheels, Grey Bears Partner to Expand Senior Nutrition Access Homeless Garden Project Honors New Leaf Community Markets • Santa Cruz Symphony Presents ‘Danny and Friends’ — An Intimate Recital With Seven Stellar Musicians Model Railroad Exhibit Keeps Expanding: Club President Looking for New Recruits, By Jon Chown • President’s Passion for the Flower Runs Deep: Rose Society Looks to Grow Membership, By Jon Chown Sublime Sunrise • Sparky’s Holiday Lights Returns to Brighten the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Aptos Chamber Celebrates Holiday Season with Tree Lighting & Makers Market • Community Bridges WIC Remains Open During Potential Federal Government Shutdown Pace Trails Public Art Project RFP

Local Sports 23 Aptos High School Volleyball Caps Season With Deep Playoff Run Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – Retrogrades, Thanksgiving, Advent Begins, By Risa D’Angeles Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29 Featured Columnists 19 Strong Partnerships, Bright Futures: Empowering Families as Partners in Education, By Dr. Heather Contreras, Superintendent, Pajaro Valley Unified School District 25 History Rhymes Again, By Marc Cuniberti 30 The Secret Ingredient for Childrens’ Mental Health: Sleep,

By Dr. Lori Buttewworth 31 Rain Will Increase Until Late Winter, By Tony Tomeo SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 31 – A Crime Spree is Coming!

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COVER STORY publisher

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editor

Jon Chown

contributing writers

Jon Chown, Tad Stearn, Risa D’Angeles, Heather Contreras, Marc Cuniberti, Lori Buttewworth, Tony Tomeo

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“Veterans’ Day” from page 1 Thankfully, Gray said, those attitudes have mostly changed. “I think people now realize that you don’t have to like the war, but you don’t take it out on the warrior.”

Events honoring veterans occurred throughout the county on Nov. 11. At the Santa Cruz County Veterans Memorial Building, a ceremony was held from 11 a.m. to noon featuring remarks by Santa Cruz Mayor Fred Keeley. A moment of silence was held at the War Memorial outside the Vets Hall afterward. Gray’s march was the first event of the day, with veterans and their supporters lining up at 8:30 a.m. to begin the march.

“It’s a really beautiful walk, and it’s a good way to get some younger veterans out here. There’s no boundary between ages among veterans,” Gray said. “It’s just a lot easier for veterans to talk to other veterans.”

Jose Becerra of Watsonville served in the Navy from 2012 to 2016 on board the USS Ronald Reagan and USS George Washington.

He said he was there to show support for his fellow veterans.

“Veterans are like a community, so I’m here to show support for my community,” he said.

It was Becerra’s fifth year participating in the march. The first year was a march from Watsonville to Santa Cruz, 22 miles over two days. The distance was an ode to a 2013 study

by the VA that found that 22 U.S. veterans die by suicide every day.

Gray said the first march, nine years ago, went from Santa Cruz to Sacramento. It took two weeks. Gray’s journey through life landed him in Vietnam during the war. He was a teenager when he first arrived.

“We were all teenagers. We were just

kids, doing what they asked us to do,” he said. But when he got back home, people didn’t seem to see it that way. He originally arrived in town in 1969 to attend UC Santa Cruz on the G.I. Bill. President Nixon had just announced the invasion of Cambodia, and the whole campus shut down due to protests.

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Ed Banks steers an antique fire truck down Watsonville’s Main Street during the veterans parade.

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More people participating in the march from Natural Bridges State Beach to the Britannia Arms.

COVER STORY “I just kind of hid out. The whole time I was in college I didn’t tell anybody who I was,” he said. “I had a hard time becoming a civilian. I just didn’t know how to interact in the world.”

Gray’s experience was wholly different from that of Guy George, who served in the Navy during the Korean War. George was in Watsonville Tuesday morning for the march from St. Patrick’s Church to Veterans Hall. The route would take them down Main Street and right through the heart of town. Local residents, mostly students from Moreland Notre

Dame Elementary, lined Main Street to see the parade, waving American flags.

The parade ended with a ceremony that honored veterans from all branches of service. It’s an annual tradition in Watsonville, though the turnout has slowly been dwindling. Twenty years ago there were World War II veterans in the parade, and even members of the famed 442nd Regimental Combat Team, a segregated unit of Japanese American soldiers in World War II who were recruited out of internment camps. The 442nd is the most decorated unit in U.S. combat history and many members settled in Watsonville after the war.

During the ceremony, Tom Graves, author of “Twice Heroes: America’s Nisei Veterans of WWII” spoke about regiment’s legacy and their sacrifice. “It was an honor meeting and telling the stories of these amazing Nisei veterans,” he said.

The eldest veteran in attendance appeared to be George, 94, who had served in the Navy as an aviation mechanic during the Korean War. “My experience coming home was great!” he said, with far more energy than one might expect from a 94-year-old man.

“It was so close to World War II and people had a lot of respect for Korean War vets. I could hitchhike and always get a ride. It was great to come back home. It was something special.” n

Veterans on motorcycles roll down Main Street on Nov. 11.

effortless

Veterans march down Main Street in Watsonville and wave to the crowd.

Former Santa Cruz County Supervisor and U.S. Army veteran Greg Caput used a walker to make his way down Main Street as students from Moreland Notre Dame Elementary School, and local residents lined the street.

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Supervisors Approve Dover Drive Speed Bumps in Live Oak

T

By Jon Chown

he Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors recently approved the installation of two new road bumps along Dover Drive between Soquel Drive and Howe Street, following a call from the community to slow traffic in the neighborhood.

Four speed bumps had been initially proposed, but after review by the county’s Department of Public Works, the plan was revised to include two. Each bump will be 4 inches high with a 2-inch taper, designed to slow traffic while minimizing disruption for vehicles. The installation will also include pavement markings, warning signs, and an advisory speed limit of 15 mph.

Residents of Dover Drive spearheaded the request under the county’s 2007 Policy for Placing Physical Speed Control, which requires support from at least 50% of residents in the affected areas. The petition received 13 signatures from households in the primary area — Dover Drive between Soquel Drive and Howe Street — and 105 signatures from the secondary area, resulting in a 60% approval rate, exceeding the threshold required for board action.

In addition to neighborhood support, the Soquel Union Elementary School District backed the project in a letter to the county’s Department of Public Works. “The safety and well-being of our community members, especially those traveling in and around this area, are of the utmost importance to us,” wrote Alison Warner, the district’s Assistant Superintendent for Business Services. “We

believe that the implementation of these speed bumps will positively impact our community by encouraging safer driving behavior and promoting a more peaceful and secure environment for all.”

However, the Central Fire District of Santa Cruz County cautioned that speed bumps can impede emergency response times. In a letter to county officials, the district said it did not take a formal position on the matter but noted that “speed bumps delay response times and damage trucks and equipment.” The letter added that “fire apparatus,” which can weigh up to 70,000 pounds, “are designed for rapid response, but are not built to endure repeated abrupt impacts.”

The total project cost is estimated at $16,272. Residents will contribute $8,136, or half of the total, under the county’s unified fee schedule. The remaining cost will be covered by County Service Area 9, which funds local road maintenance and safety improvements. Supervisors also approved a resolution accepting and appropriating the $8,136 in unanticipated revenue from residents to help fund the work.

County officials said the project supports Santa Cruz County’s Equity Framework and Operational Plan for Comprehensive Health and Safety, aimed at improving neighborhood safety and infrastructure.

Construction is expected to begin once scheduling and final preparations are completed by the Department of Public Works. n

COMMUNITY NEWS

All Kids Play 2025 Campaign Aims to Expand Park Access C ounty Park Friends, the nonprofit partner of Santa Cruz County Parks, has launched its All Kids Play 2025 campaign with an ambitious goal to raise $100,000 by the end of December. The campaign supports scholarships and park improvements that make it possible for local youth to enjoy healthy, active, and enriching experiences outdoors.

Every child in Santa Cruz County deserves the chance to learn to swim, join a sports camp, or explore nature through park programs — but many families cannot afford the fees. Through All Kids Play scholarships, County Park Friends ensures that cost is never a barrier to participation.

Last year, community donations helped connect 1,111 youth to County Parks programs and fund 383 full scholarships for activities such as swim lessons, pool guards, sports camps and nature programs.

Demand continues to grow, with applications exceeding available funding each year.

County Parks Friends efforts were recently highlighted in Capitola, where the group has partnered with the city to modernize Treasure Cove playground at Jade Street Park and make it accessible to more children. Treasure Cove will feature a marine and shoreline theme with specialized equipment, including a wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round, cozy domes, sensory play structures and climbing zones, ensuring children of all ages and abilities can play together side by side.

An 18-month capital campaign led by County Park Friends raised more than $1 million in private donations. Contributions came from individual community members, service organizations, foundations and local businesses through a wide variety of creative fundraisers.

“Over 1,500 donors contributed to Treasure Cove. Their generosity has brought us to this moment,” said lead community fundraising volunteer Dan Haifley at a

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“What I’ve realized is that when you have playgrounds that are inclusive, it means a lot to the parents and a lot to the children who then can be a part of something that is foundational for what we stand for,” said Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.). “It gives you that sense of belonging.” n ••• To contribute or learn more, visit countyparkfriends.org. Every dollar raised stays right here in Santa Cruz County, building stronger kids, families, and communities through recreation, confidence, and connection.

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NOVEMBER 2025

Aptos Real Estate Update

COMMUNITY NEWS

Ruth Bates 831.359.2212

ruthbates1@gmail.com CalBRE#01799929

Happy Thanksgiving!

I am very grateful to live in the beautiful town of Aptos.

SOLD PAST 180 DAYS Average Sales Price: $1,803,535, Median Sales Price: $1,700,333. Top 3 sales: 105 Toledo - $3,600,888 – 4B/4.5BA/2935SF-5 yrs old, 745 Las Olas - $3,300,000, on the sand, 3B/3.5BA/1800, 81 years old, 196 Mar Sereno - $3,095,000 – 4B/3BA/4435 SF, 6 years old. Lowest 3 sales: 9013 Rhodes - $985,000 – 2B/1.5BA/1280sf, 845 Pine Tree - $949,000 – 1B/1BA/640SF, 107 Bennett - $880,000 – 2B/1BA/983SF. Homes near AVG/MEDIAN: 506 Bayview - $1,875,000, 825 Skyward $1,725,000, 199 Quail Run - $1,700,000, 333 Arthur - $1,695,000 (I represented the Buyer).

Townhomes: 454 Granite Way, $1,100,000, 297 Bonefish - $1,050,000, 3109 Corte Cabrillo $825,000, 2832 Casa De Vida - $727,778, 110 Lloyd Ct - $570,000.

ACTIVE 55 Active home listings as of 11/10. Avg List Price is a whopping $2,998,520, Median List Price - $2,190,000 (over $400K higher than Median Sold Price last month). Avg Days on Market is 96 days. 5 homes listed for <$1million and 10 homes range $1M-$1.5M, leaving 40 homes listed at over $1.5 million. The high list is 797 Las Olas at $14 million. Homes near the AVG/MEDIAN price: 153 Castillo Ct $2,850,000, 607 St. Andrews - $2,750,000, 320 Cliff - $269,900, 190 Driftwood - $2,549,000, 220 Shoreviw - $2,399,000, 1325 Dolphin $2,395,000, 126 Via Novella - $2,195,000.

30-YEAR MORTGAGE INTEREST RATE — 6.34% on 11/07, was 6.36% on 10/08.

Fresh input from Sherry Scott Interior Designer (Instagram.com/sherryscottdesign/) LIGHTING — LED should ideally be to the 3,000K color temperature. That designation is neither warm nor cool. Most manufacturers are using 3,000K color now. Some people equate the color temperature of sunlight with natural light. Sunlight, however, measures 6,000K, which is very blue. It appears warm when it enters our atmosphere and is bent towards the warm side. Candlelight on the other hand appears warmer, more yellow, at 2,600K to 2,700K. LED bulbs at 2,700K throw a yellow cast that is not usually desirable.

PAINT — A lot of homes still have some type of skip trowel texture on the wall, not smooth walls.

For preparing a home for market and selecting paint, flat finish for the walls will show the least imperfections (as it will on the ceiling). I did staging for 5 years and flat was the best choice.

While low sheen will clean better, we usually reserve that for the kitchen and bathroom walls.”

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

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Aptos High Senior Turns Art into Access

Mural Project Connects Students to Mental Health Resources

By Tad Stearn

W

hen Aptos High School senior Hannah Levy looked around campus, she saw more than crowded stairwells and busy classrooms. She also saw stress.

“High school can be overwhelming,” she said. “Between grades, sports, college applications and just life, it’s easy to forget to take care of your mental health.”

So when it came time to choose a project for her Girl Scout Gold Award, Levy knew she wanted to do something to support student well-being. The Gold Award is the highest honor in Girl Scouting, given for initiatives that help fix a problem in their community or make a lasting impact in their world.

The award is comparable to Scouting America’s Eagle Scout rank.

Her idea was both simple and powerful: a mural that would not only visibly brighten campus life but also connect students to real help. The mural, now displayed on the front of the I Building at Aptos High, features the words “Live Life in Full Bloom” alongside colorful California poppies and the Mariner’s trademark anchor. In the lower corner is a QR code that links directly to the school’s newly revamped Wellness Page.

“The Gold Award is about creating

8 / November 15th 2025 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

QR code for the Aptos High School Wellness Page

something that lasts,” Levy said. “I wanted to make sure that long after I graduate, students will still be able to find the support they need.”

But before a single brushstroke could go on the wall, Hannah had to navigate a rigorous list of approvals. Her proposal was reviewed by Principal Lisa Lansdale, the art department, the Instructional Committee, the School Site Council, and even the Pajaro Valley Unified School District Board. “It

was a lot of meetings,” she said, laughing.

“But everyone understood how important it was.”

Once approved, Levy got to work and found the community ready to back her vision. San Lorenzo Lumber donated materials for the mural’s panels, and local artist Sam Rak volunteered to help advise on the layout and painting.

As the mural took shape, Levy had a new insight. “I realized some students might not feel comfortable scanning the QR code in front of others,” she said. “Mental health can still feel private, even though it shouldn’t have to.”

Working with Principal Lansdale, she came up with a creative solution: smaller posters featuring the same QR code will be placed inside bathroom stalls, where students can discreetly access the site.

The Wellness Page itself, which Hannah redesigned, is now an easily navigable hub of resources offering links to mental health support, crisis hotlines and local social services. It’s a tool the school is committed to maintaining and expanding each year.

“Mural Project” page 20

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Rancho Del Mar’s US Bank Robbed

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uthorities are still searching for five men who wore ski masks and construction clothing while robbing US Bank in Rancho Del Mar shopping center on the afternoon of Nov. 5.

Around 4 p.m., deputies received a call that five men had robbed US Bank, with several having handguns and knives. The robbers escaped south on Soquel Drive in a newer model red Honda CRV. Nobody was injured during the incident.

Sergeant Zach West of the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office, said the masks were able to hide the suspects’ facial features. At least two were armed with handguns and another had a knife.

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Lic# Pending

By Jon Chown

he Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents that home burglaries are on the rise again.

A rash of residential break-ins occurred throughout the county, particularly in the Aptos area, about six weeks ago. The culprit or culprits were never caught, and the pattern has emerged again.

“What we know is that the suspect’s MO is kind of consistent,” said Sgt. Zach West of the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office.

“We’re not saying it’s the same person, but there are consistencies with the rash of burglaries about six weeks ago.”

Over the past 10 days, West said, multiple homes in the rural area of Aptos have been targeted during the early morning hours while residents were asleep, generally between midnight and 4 a.m. Unlocked automobiles are also being broken into.

“Burglar Is Back” page 20

Foul Play Suspected in Case of Missing Woman

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West said the robbery was obviously predetermined, as the suspects had masks and gloves, but it may have not been well thought out. That US Bank location is a cashless. There isn’t even an ATM machine.

“I don’t know for sure if they were able to taken any property,” West said.

Regardless of the lack of cash, West said the FBI is now involved because it was a bank robbery. Other local jurisdictions are also assisting in the investigation.

“Bank robberies are a rare occurrence for Santa Cruz County, but anytime something like this happens it becomes a collaboration,” he said. n

Beware: Burglar Is Back in Aptos

831.768.1887

307 Main St., Suite 101, Watsonville, California 95076

11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

By Jon Chown

By Jon Chown

35-year-old woman visiting Santa Cruz County for the first time is missing and authorities suspect foul play may be involved.

Danielle Staley was last seen around 11:30 p.m. on Nov. 6 near Rio Del Mar Beach.

She is 5’6”, weighs about 120 pounds and has blond hair. She was last seen wearing a dark, hooded sweatshirt and leopard-print leggings.

A post on the sheriff’s Facebook page elicited a lot of responses, with many having claimed to have recently seen her. David Black, a resident of Aptos, posted that he saw her on Nov. 7, around 1 p.m. walking a trail over Aptos Creek.

Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Sergeant Zach West said that Staley has not been in contact with any family members for days, which is different than her normal behavior.

Danielle Staley The last time she was seen was with a group of people on the beach that are unknown to the sheriff’s office.

While she has disappeared, several personal items of hers were left on the beach.

“Missing Woman” page 20

COMMUNITY NEWS

Cabrillo College Seeks Applicants for Area V Trustee Seat C abrillo College is inviting eligible residents to apply to fill a vacancy on its Board of Trustees representing Area V, which covers the city of Watsonville and surrounding parts of Santa Cruz County. Candidates must live and be registered to vote in Trustee Area V, and submit a statement of interest and completed application by noon on Tuesday, Nov. 25.

The seat became vacant following the death of Trustee Manuel Bersamin, a longtime advocate for community college access and student success. The Board of Trustees approved the provisional appointment process at its Nov. 3 meeting.

“Manuel cared deeply about the role and mission of California community colleges and had the unique ability to help students pursue their dreams,” said Christina Cuevas, president of the Cabrillo Board of Trustees.

“He was proud to serve on the Cabrillo board

and represented his district with passion and a clear eye for what is right. We will miss his presence on the board.”

Applicants should be available for interviews and selection at the Governing Board meeting on Monday, Dec. 1, at 6:15 p.m. The selected candidate will begin serving immediately, take part in training on Dec. 2, and participate in Superintendent/President finalist interviews on Dec. 3 and 4. The provisional trustee will serve until the next regular election in 2026.

Applications are available from Ronnette Smithcamp, executive assistant to the superintendent/president, at rosmithc@ cabrillo.edu, or in person at the Superintendent/President’s Office, Student Activities Center West, Room 204, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos.

“Area V Trustee” page 18

Cabrillo College Names Four Finalists for Superintendent/President Position

C

abrillo College has named four finalists for its next superintendent/ president following a months-long national search that campus leaders described as broad, inclusive, and highly competitive.

“This has been a broad, national search, and we are pleased with the significant and highly qualified pool of applicants we received,” said Christina Cuevas, Cabrillo Governing Board chair and chair of the Superintendent/President Search

Committee. “It is a thorough and inclusive process — the Search Committee includes representation from all campus constituent groups: faculty, staff, administration, students, the Foundation, and the community. We look forward to presenting this impressive slate of finalists to the Cabrillo and broader community and having the opportunity for open dialogue.”

“Finalists” page 15

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2025 / 11

COMMUNITY NEWS

Dominican Hospital Celebrates New Mobile Clinic

D

By Jon Chown

ominican Hospital held a ribboncutting ceremony for its new Mobile Wellness Clinic on Nov. 7.

The mobile clinic, which is basically an RV designed to provide medical care, is a key part of the hospital’s outreach to local residents who struggle to afford health care, said nurse practitioner Erin O’Connor, manager of the clinic.

“The vast majority of our patients are the working poor. They make too much to qualify for Medi-Cal but can’t afford insurance,” she said. “We are the last safety net for many, and we see everyone without cost.”

The need in Santa Cruz County is what inspired Sister Michaella Siplak to launch the Mobile Wellness Clinic out of Dignity Health’s Dominican Hospital in 2011. It serves about 2,500 patients annually, providing low-cost treatment, education and referrals to more services.

O’Connor said the clinic is able to screen for cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes and more. It helps people manage chronic disease and also screens people for food insecurity.

The clinic makes routine visits to Davenport, Boulder Creek, Scotts Valley, Santa Cruz and Pajaro, while also working with other health programs and entities to assist them.

For instance, it collaborates with the Community Action Board to provide health care to farmworkers.

The new all-electric clinic has two exam rooms and a central reception area. O’Connor said having electricity will be really helpful, allowing physicians and patients in a quiet setting “without the hum and roar of a diesel generator.”

“I can finally retire my amplified stethoscope,” she said.

The new RV also has a bathroom, which O’Connor said will allow the clinic to post

12 / November 15th 2025 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

up nearly anywhere, whereas before there needed to be a bathroom close by.

The campaign to raise the $2.145 million needed for the clinic began in 2023.

“It’s community support that fuels this mobile wellness clinic,” said Anthony Pagliaro, director of philanthropy at Dignity Health. n

COMMUNITY NEWS

County BESS Draft Ordinance Released

Creates Timeline for Approval of Minto Battery Storage Plant

S

By Jon Chown

anta Cruz County is drafting an ordinance on battery energy storage systems that creates a timeline in which a new facility proposed for Minto Road near Watsonville could be approved by the end of 2026.

Battery energy storage systems allow solar and wind energy to be stored and used later — helping stabilize the electrical grid, lower energy costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The new ordinance will guide how and where these systems can be built in unincorporated Santa Cruz County. Named the Energy Storage Combining District Ordinance, it defines eligible sites, safety and environmental requirements, application procedures, and oversight responsibilities.

It includes environmental review to assess potential risks, public review and hearings for proposed projects, and mandates regular updates on safety research and technology improvements.

According to county documents, the ordinance will ensure that any energy storage facility proposed in the community meets the

A BESS facility proposed for Minto Road near Watsonville could replace the apple orchard near the end of the street. highest standards for safety, environmental protection and local oversight. It will help ensure public and firefighter safety, minimize environmental and neighborhood impacts, and prevent the construction of outdated systems such as the Moss Landing facility that caught fire in January. A draft of the ordinance will be presented to the board on

Nov. 18. Public hearings on the ordinance are slated for the summer of 2026, with final adoption not scheduled until the fall of 2026, and a review of any proposed project before the end of 2026.

Meanwhile, New Leaf Energy is proposing to develop a 200-megawatt BESS project on 14 acres that would connect to

the PG&E substation on Minto Road. About 300 containers, each with 40 batteries inside, would be placed several feet apart. Each would have its own fire-suppression system.

A rubber bladder would be placed underneath the entire site to prevent any liquids from leaking into College Lake. Once the permits are in place, the project would likely be sold to PG&E or another entity to build and operate, said New Leaf Energy Project Lead Max Christian.

“It’s a great opportunity for the county to get improved grid benefits,” Christian said. “Your county will be able to meet its climate goals, there’s revenue that would go to schools … a lot of benefits.”

Fire Resets Conversation

The county originally started a draft BESS ordinance in October 2024, with approval expected by the summer of 2025, but on Jan. 16 a fire engulfed the Vistra BESS plant in Moss Landing.

“Draft Ordinance” page 24

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Learn more at DignityHealth.org/DominicanHearts.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2025 / 13

COMMUNITY NEWS

County Agencies Scramble to Feed Hungry Nutritional Assistance Programs Available Countywide

T

By Jon Chown

he shutdown may be over, but non-profit agencies, as well as local governments, are scrambling to fill the hole it left by the suspension and reduction of benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program during the shutdown.

SNAP is a federal program administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, but states and local agencies handle eligibility and distribution. In California, the program is called CalFresh. Monthly benefits are provided through EBT cards to low-income households.

On Nov. 1, CalFresh benefits were delayed for many recipients due to the federal shutdown. That left about 33,000 Santa Cruz County residents who rely on the program facing hunger.

Three days later, the county Board of Supervisors voted to declare a local emergency, and the county announced it was donating $500,000 to support Second Harvest Food Bank’s emergency food distribution efforts.

In addition, the Santa Cruz County Office of Education pledged an additional $250,000; the cities of Santa Cruz and Watsonville each pledged $100,000; and the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County put another $100,000 in the pot.

“The collective response by our local governments and philanthropic partners is a demonstration of our local commitment to ensuring no one in our county goes hungry,” Second Harvest CEO Erica Padilla-Chavez said in response to the donation. “Only by working together can we weather this

Available Nutritional Resources A list of resources for food in Santa Cruz County.

This is not an exhaustive list. Additional resources can be found at www.thefoodbank.org.

••• APTOS Resurrection Church Pantry – Food Distribution 7600 Soquel Dr. Monday & Friday, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. (excluding holidays) New Hope Church Aptos – Food Distribution 7200 Freedom Blvd.

2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month Upcoming: Nov. 25, Dec. 9 Twin Lakes Church People’s Pantry – Food Distribution 2701 Cabrillo College Drive Wednesdays, 3:45–5:15 p.m. (drive-thru)

Watsonville’s food pantries were being stretched during the shutdown. challenging time. We should all feel proud One of the non-profits addressing the of our county’s response to this unprec- needs there is Community Bridges. Estabedented situation.” lished in 1977, it runs nutritional assistance The worst hunger is generally found programs for children and adults. where the highest rates of poverty are. In One of its biggest operations is Meals Santa Cruz County, that’s Watsonville, where on Wheels, which delivers meals to the nearly 13% of families live below the poverty homes of elderly people. It serves a free line, as opposed to the county’s overall 5.8%. lunch to seniors at sites in Watsonville, Live “In Watsonville, we’ve seen firsthand Oak, Santa Cruz, and Ben Lomond. It also how families are struggling to stretch their distributes food in Santa Cruz and Felton budgets,” Watsonville Mayor Maria Orozco twice a month. said in a press release about the city’s $100,000 “Nutritional Assistance” page 16 donation to Second Harvest.

CAPITOLA Bay Avenue Senior Apartments – Food Pantry 750 Bay Avenue, Building 4 Tuesday, 10–11 a.m.

2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month Upcoming: Nov. 25, Dec. 9 Open while supplies last FELTON Mountain Community Resources – Food Distribution 6134 Highway 9 Thursdays, 10:30–11:30 a.m.

“Nutritional Resources” page 16

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“Finalists” from page 11 The four finalists, listed alphabetically, are: • Dr. Jenn Capps, provost and vice president of academic affairs at Cal Poly Humboldt.

Capps has helped lead Humboldt’s transition into the California State University system’s third polytechnic university and helped secure hunJenn Capps dreds of millions of dollars in state funding to expand career and workforce programs. She previously served as dean at Metropolitan State University of Denver, where she developed academic partnerships that connected students to regional industries.

• Dr. Travaris Harris, assistant superintendent and vice president of instruction at Cabrillo College.

Harris also serves as Cabrillo’s accreditation liaison officer and cochairs the college’s participation in the national Achieving Travaris Harris the Dream studentsuccess initiative. With more than 25 years in higher education, he has led equity-based efforts to improve student retention and has been active in regional workforce and community development, including service with United Way of Santa Cruz County.

• Dr. Tia Robinson-Cooper, former chancellor of Ivy Tech Community College in Indiana. RobinsonCooper has held senior leadership roles across several community college systems, including positions as president and provost.

She has focused her career on equity- Tia Robinson-Cooper minded, student-centered leadership and has built partnerships aligning college programs with workforce needs

in healthcare, public safety, manufacturing, and education.

• Dr. Maria Villagómez, assistant superintendent, vice president of academic affairs and accreditation liaison officer at Santa Barbara City College.

A first-generation college graduate, Villagómez has more than three decades of experience in education, including 25 Maria Villagómez years in California’s community college system. She has championed initiatives to expand guided pathways, dual enrollment, and faculty diversity, and has led curriculum reforms to better align courses with student and industry needs.

Public forums for each finalist were held Wednesday, Nov. 12, at Cabrillo’s Samper Music Recital Hall in Aptos and streamed online via Zoom. Each session lasted 45 minutes, with a 15-minute break between candidates.

Candidates were each asked the same two opening questions and given about 10 minutes to respond. Members of the Cabrillo community and the public were invited to submit additional questions in advance through a Google form. A selection of those submissions, reviewed and chosen by the search committee, were read aloud by moderators during the forums for impromptu Q&A segments. Each candidate concluded with a five-minute closing statement.

Recordings of all four forums are available for viewing on Cabrillo’s Superintendent/President Search page at www. cabrillo.edu.

Following the forums, the Cabrillo College Board of Trustees conducted final interviews with the candidates Thursday in closed session. The board is expected to make its selection later this month, with a formal vote anticipated at its December meeting. The new superintendent/president is expected to begin in January 2026. n ••• Founded in 1959, Cabrillo College serves Santa Cruz County with campuses in Aptos and Watsonville. The college offers more than 100 academic and career technical education programs and is ranked No. 1 in student transfers to UC Santa Cruz.

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2025 / 15

COMMUNITY NEWS

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Meals on Wheels, Grey Bears Partner to Expand Senior Nutrition Access

he shutdown may be over, but hunger still remains for thousands of older adults across Santa Cruz County. To strengthen the local safety net, Community Bridges’ Meals on Wheels and Grey Bears have joined forces to launch Delivering More Together: Complete Nutrition for Santa Cruz County Seniors.

The new partnership automatically enrolls homebound seniors who receive Meals on Wheels deliveries into Grey Bears’ Healthy Food Program, which provides weekly grocery bags filled with fresh produce and pantry staples. The dual-service approach ensures older adults have access to both ready-to-eat meals and groceries at no cost.

“This partnership ensures that every older adult can count on both a warm meal and fresh groceries—no matter what’s happening in Washington,” said Raymon Cancino, CEO of Community Bridges.

“When funding fails or policies change, our community still shows up.”

Community Bridges will cover the enrollment cost for new participants joining

through Meals on Wheels, removing a key financial barrier for seniors living on fixed incomes. The two organizations are coordinating deliveries to ensure seamless service across the county.

“With the recent federal nutrition cuts, homebound seniors are especially vulnerable because they can’t simply increase their

income to cover higher food costs,” said Jennifer Merchant, executive director of Grey Bears. “By uniting our essential food services, we’re keeping nutrition equitable and accessible for every senior.”

Meals on Wheels Senior Program Director Dana Wagner said the collaboration offers peace of mind to families and caregivers.

“Nutritional Assistance” from page 14

Community Bridges serves meals to Santa Cruz County’s seniors in Watsonville, Live Oak, Santa Cruz and Ben Lomond.

Tony Nunez, communications director for Community Bridges, said the problems really began in January. DOGE caused some disruptions, then immigration-related actions and fears caused some problems for food deliveries. Things got worse, he said, when Congress passed the Big Beautiful Bill in early summer. The shutdown, he said, exacerbated everything.

“All of these things were kind of what we imagined would be a challenging time for people in the community who were supported by the government safety net,” he said. “We knew we had to be resilient.”

Nunez said he expects 2026 to be even more challenging.

“So we’re trying to prepare. We will continue our baseline services that will be more essential heading into next year.” n Hot/Cold Meal Program: Sunday–Saturday, 5–6 p.m.

Open while supplies last Radcliff Elementary School – Food Distribution SANTA CRUZ 550 Rodriguez St. Grey Bears – Food Distribution Friday, 2:30–3:30 p.m., 4th Friday of the month 2710 Chanticleer Ave. Upcoming: Nov. 28, Dec. 26, Jan. 23 Saturday, 10–11 a.m.

Open while supplies last Open only to older adults/seniors (55+). Program Watsonville Senior Center – Food Distribution features: grocery/client choice, home delivery service, 114 E. Fifth St. pre-packed boxes/bags. Items offered: fruits & Thursday, 10–11 a.m., 3rd Thursday of the month vegetables, shelf-stable/non-perishable goods.

Upcoming: Nov. 20, Dec. 18, Jan. 15 Nueva Vista Community Resources Open while supplies last (Community Bridges) – Food Distribution Casa del Alfarero – Food Distribution 711 E. Cliff Dr. 113 E. Front St. Wednesday, 2:30–4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, 3–4 p.m., 1st & 3rd Wednesday of the month 1st & 3rd Wednesday of the month Upcoming: Nov. 19, Dec. 3, Dec. 17 Upcoming: Nov. 19, Dec. 3, Dec. 17 Open while supplies last SOQUEL All Saints Cristo Rey Episcopal Church – Food Pantry 437 Roger Ave. Tradewinds Church – Food Distribution Thursday, 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m., 4th Thursday of the 4525 Soquel Dr. month – Upcoming: Nov. 27, Dec. 25, Jan. 22 Wednesday, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Freedom Elementary School 2nd & 4th Wednesday of the month – Food Distribution / Food Pantry Upcoming: Nov. 12, Nov. 26, Dec. 10 25 Holly Dr. WATSONVILLE Tuesday, 1:30–2:30 p.m., 2nd Tuesday of the month Second Harvest Emergency Response Upcoming: Nov. 11, Dec. 9, Jan. 13 Community – Food Distributions Friday, 1–3:30 p.m.

• EA Hall Middle School, 201 Brewington Ave. – Wednesday, 5–6 p.m., 2nd & 4th Wednesday of the month Saturday, Nov. 15: 9–11 a.m.

Upcoming: Nov. 12, Nov. 26, Dec. 10 • Santa Cruz County Beach Boardwalk – Monday, Open while supplies last Nov. 17: 4–7 p.m.

Salud Para La Gente – Food Distribution • 2601 E. Lake Ave. – Thursday, Nov. 20: 4–8 p.m.

45 Nielson St. ••• Thursday, 5:30–6:30 p.m., 1st & 3rd Thursday of the month Pajaro Valley Loaves & Fishes – Food Distribution Upcoming: Nov. 20, Dec. 4, Dec. 18 150 Second St. Open while supplies last Monday–Friday, 9–11:30 a.m., 1–3 p.m.

Holy Eucharist Church – Food Distribution Salvation Army Watsonville Corps 527 Corralitos Rd. – Food Distribution / Soup Kitchen Thursday, 4–5 p.m., 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month 214 Union St., Watsonville Upcoming: Nov. 13, Nov. 27, Dec. 11 Food Distribution: Tuesday & Thursday, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

Open while supplies last n “Nutritional Resources” from page 14

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COMMUNITY NEWS

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Homeless Garden Project Honors New Leaf Community Markets

he Homeless Garden Project has named New Leaf Community Markets its inaugural Employer Partner of the Year, recognizing the grocery company’s strong commitment to hiring graduates of the program and helping people move out of homelessness through steady, meaningful employment.

The award was presented before an audience of more than 250 supporters and community leaders during the nonprofit’s annual Fall Sustain Farm Supper, held at its 3.5-acre organic farm on the west side of Santa Cruz.

Founded in 1990, the Homeless Garden Project (HGP) provides job training, transitional employment and support services for people experiencing homelessness.

Its trainees work on the farm and in HGP’s social enterprises, developing skills that prepare them for long-term employment and housing stability.

Employer partners are an essential part of that process, said Executive Director Darrie Ganzhorn.

They volunteer their time to conduct mock interviews, serve on employer panels and — most importantly —

Photo Credit: Paul Schraub

New Leaf Community Markets representatives (from left to right) Kate Halper and Shelby Zivku, Founder Scott Roseman and Vice President Forrest Gonsiewski accept an award from the Homeless Garden Project. hire program graduates who are ready to re-enter the workforce.

“Having employers come out to the farm and meet our trainees is powerful,” Ganzhorn said. “They see firsthand the

motivation and readiness of our participants — and that builds real confidence to hire.”

In 2025, New Leaf Community Markets hired five HGP participants in

rapid succession, allowing those trainees to graduate early and opening spaces for new enrollees. The hires reflect what HGP leaders describe as a “model partnership,” in which employers actively create on-ramps to opportunity for people overcoming barriers to employment.

“The Homeless Garden Project empowers people to gain control of their lives and move out of homelessness,” said New Leaf founder Scott Roseman. “It’s great to employ someone who’s faced challenges, but it’s extraordinary when that person becomes an essential part of your business’s success—and that’s exactly what we’ve experienced with HGP graduates.”

HGP’s network of employer partners includes The Garden Company, the City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Department, Housing Matters, Janus of Santa Cruz, and the Santa Cruz Warriors.

Each plays a role in helping graduates transition from HGP’s paid training program to permanent employment in the community.

“New Leaf” page 20

Santa Cruz Symphony Presents ‘Danny and Friends’ — An Intimate Recital With Seven Stellar Musicians

D

aniel Stewart, maestro for the Santa Cruz Symphony, returns with his popular “Danny and Friends” recital on Sunday, Nov. 16, at 2 p.m. in the Cabrillo College Samper Recital Hall.

Featured compositions will include Johannes Brahms’ String Sextet No. 1, along with Antonín Dvořák’s Piano Quintet No. 2.

It’s the first of the Santa Cruz Symphony’s Musician Series performances for the current season.

“The maestro’s recital last year proved to be one of our most popular presentations in the Musician Series,” said Gary Reece, executive director. “He always brings a dazzling cadre of his friends, who perform in an intimate setting, which brings the audience up close with the musicians. In fact, they often interact with the audience from the stage.”

Maestro Stewart will perform on the viola with his personal friends In Sun Jang

“Area V Trustee” from page 11 Interested residents can verify their eligibility through the Santa Cruz County Office of Elections at (831) 454-2060. For additional

• Mr. Stewart is maestro of the Symphony after having directed the San Francisco Youth Symphony. He also performed with many leading orchestras, including The Met. • Ms. Jang performs with the San Francisco Symphony and has performed with the New World Symphony. She is a graduate of Julliard and the New England Conservatory.

• Mr. Yaron is a violinist for the RWS Entertainment Group based in New York. He plays with the Boulder Bach Festival and the Boulder Chamber Orchestra in Colorado.

• Ms. Chang is founder and executive director of Chamber Music by the Bay and a board member for the American Viola Society.

• Mr. Kim was a soloist for the Symphony’s season opener, performing Elgar’s Cello Concerto. He has been described as “the next Yo-Yo Ma.” • Ms. Moon has performed with the New York Philharmonic, the Santa Rosa Symphony, and more. She was educated at Juilliard and has several recordings.

• Ms. McLeavey holds master’s degrees in piano from Juilliard and in neuroscience, plus a BS in physics from Princeton, where she was valedictorian.

The concert is sponsored by Mark Chambers-Bray in memory of Roy Chambers-Bray.

For tickets, call 831-479-6154 or visit www.cabrillo.edu/vapa n ••• Now in its 68th year, the Santa Cruz Symphony has inspired, educated, and engaged audiences through artistic excellence, distinctive musical performances and varied activities that honor and enhance the cultural vibrancy of

our community. The Symphony leads through creativity and excellence. Its vision is to be a cornerstone of the performing arts in the Greater Monterey Bay and San Francisco Bay Areas, inspiring our community to embrace the importance of music through a variety of musical experiences and artistic excellence. For more information and season details, visit www.santacruzsymphony.org

information, call the Cabrillo Superintendent/President’s Office at (831) 479-6302.

Founded in 1959, Cabrillo College serves Santa Cruz County with campuses in Aptos and Watsonville. The college offers more than

100 academic and career-technical programs and is ranked No. 1 in transfers to UC Santa Cruz.

While Cabrillo College does not specify the time commitment required of trustees,

the Community College League of California estimates that most community college trustees spend three to six hours per week on board responsibilities, with additional time required for officers. n

(violin), Tom Yaron (violin), Jessica Chang (viola), Jonah Kim (cello), Eileen Moon (cello), and Christine McLeavey (piano).

Meet the Musicians

18 / November 15th 2025 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Daniel Stewart playing the violin

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Strong Partnerships, Bright Futures Empowering Families as Partners in Education

By Dr. Heather Contreras, Superintendent, Pajaro Valley Unified School District

A

t Pajaro Valley Unified School District (PVUSD), we believe every child’s success begins with strong partnerships that connect home, school, and community.

When families are informed, empowered, and engaged, students do not simply perform better; they flourish.

The Power of Partnership

PVUSD understands that strong schools are built on strong relationships. Our district and schools cultivate deep partnerships with families, staff, and community organizations.

Grounded in trust and collaboration, we are aligning resources, growing relationships, and expanding opportunities for students and families across the district.

Each school reflects the strengths of its neighborhood, working with families and partners to support positive outcomes for students.

At the center of this work are our students, the reason behind every plan, every program, and every partnership. At times, we face seasons that call for reflection and realignment as we look closely at how to best use our resources to meet student needs.

These moments can be challenging, and we know they affect people we care deeply about, our staff, our families, and our community. Even so, our focus remains steady: to strengthen the systems that support learning, growth, belonging, engagement, and connection for every student.

The collaboration between teachers, staff, and families keeps us grounded in our purpose and reminds us that our shared commitment to students is stronger than any obstacle. In PVUSD, we lead with understanding, clarity, and kindness, knowing that together we can continue to move forward with care and purpose.

Communication and Connection

Across PVUSD, schools host family learning events where parents, educators, and community partners come together to explore topics such as literacy, bilingual education, digital safety, and college and career readiness.

Families also participate in advisory committees, leadership groups, and school site councils. This helps guide programs, priorities, and the shared direction of their schools. These gatherings do more than share information; they build community. Families leave with tools to support their children’s learning and a stronger sense of belonging.

At the heart of this work is a simple truth: every family has wisdom to share.

When schools and families learn together, trust deepens, and partnerships strengthen.

A Shared Promise

Every day in PVUSD classrooms, we see the power of partnership in action. When families are engaged, students show greater motivation, stronger relationships, and deeper confidence.

Grounded in trust and collaboration, we are aligning resources, growing relationships, and expanding opportunities for students and families across the district.

Our promise is to continue walking alongside families as partners, listeners, and champions for every child. Together, we are creating schools that nurture hope, foster resilience, and open doors to opportunity.

When schools, families, and communities unite in purpose, the future of our students and our community shines bright with possibility. In the weeks ahead, we may face difficult conversations and decisions as a district.

Yet even in challenging times, we remain united by our shared purpose and our unwavering belief in our students, supporting them as they and their families build the futures they envision. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2025 / 19

“New Leaf” from page 18 Beyond job placement, the Homeless Garden Project’s programs combine handson work experience with wraparound support, case management and education.

Participants cultivate organic produce for HGP’s Community Supported Agriculture

“The recognition of New Leaf as our first Employer Partner of the Year celebrates what’s possible when businesses and nonprofits work together. It shows that local employers can make a direct, lasting impact on reducing homelessness in our community.”

— Darrie Ganzhorn, Executive Director, Homeless Garden Project

“Missing Woman” from page 10 “So those reasons are causing some concern and raising red flags,” West said.

“She’s not from around here. It becomes kind of suspicious when you’re looking at why are they here, why are they missing, is there a history of similar types of behaviors. … So when those questions go unanswered, it could be something more than a missing person.”

(CSA) program and for sale through its retail store, which also features a line of valueadded products made by trainees.

According to the organization, 95% of HGP graduates over the past decade have secured employment, and 88% have found stable housing—results that underscore the program’s focus on empowerment through work and community.

“The recognition of New Leaf as our first Employer Partner of the Year celebrates what’s possible when businesses and nonprofits work together,” Ganzhorn said. “It shows that local employers can make a direct, lasting impact on reducing homelessness in our community.” n ••• More information about the Homeless Garden Project and its Employer Partner Network is available at homelessgardenproject. org/employer-partner-network or by contacting jobs@homelessgardenproject.org.

West said the sheriff’s office is asking any of the businesses in Rio Del Mar to look at video surveillance and reach out to detectives if they see something that looks out of the ordinary between Nov. 5 and Nov. 7.

“There’s a lot more questions than we have answers to,” West said.

Anyone with information is asked to call 831-471-1121 n

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Hannah Levy installs her latest mural at Aptos High.

“Mural Project” from page 8 Principal Lansdale called the project “a model of student initiative and compassion.” She added, “Hannah didn’t just make something beautiful — she built a bridge between students and the help they might need.”

The mural now greets students each morning as they walk to class, a splash of color with a deeper message: Help is here, and hope is accessible.

“Burglar Is Back” from page 10 The thief has been targeting large properties and has also robbed outbuildings, West said. Any video that has been taken has been too poor to get a good description from.

West said the Sheriff’s Office has stepped up patrols, and detectives have been going door to door asking if residents have seen anything or are missing anything that hasn’t been reported. The thief has left evidence at the scene more than once, and it has all been sent to the Department of Justice for DNA analysis. Unfortunately, that can take months.

“We’re not taking it lightly,” West said.

“There’s a lot of behind-the-scenes work going on.”

“I hope it reminds people that it’s okay to ask for help,” Levy said. “Sometimes the hardest part is knowing where to start — and now, there’s a way.”

As she looks ahead to graduation, Levy says she’s grateful for the chance to give something back. “I’m really thankful the school trusted me with this project,” she said.

“I just hope it makes things a little easier for someone who needs support.” n ••• Photos Courtesy of Peter Levy

The Sheriff’s Office is asking residents to stay alert and take extra precautions.

Keep exterior areas well-lit during evening and early morning hours. Install and maintain security cameras and alarm systems. Lock all doors and windows before going to bed. Remove valuables from plain view, both inside and outside the home, and report any suspicious activity, people or vehicles immediately to the Sheriff’s Office.

If you see something suspicious, call (831) 471-1121, or dial 911 in case of an emergency. Anyone with information about these burglaries is asked to contact Detective Spencer at (831) 454-7636 or submit an anonymous tip through (831) 454-7631. n

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2025 / 21

COMMUNITY NEWS

Model Railroad Exhibit Keeps Expanding Club President Looking for New Recruits

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By Jon Chown

f you passed the model train exhibit at the Santa Cruz County Fair without taking much of a look, you probably missed some of the latest additions. There’s a lot more track inside the building. Modeled after the track that runs from Pajaro to Santa Cruz,

the Santa Cruz County Railroad Historical Society has added more buildings, and a lot more people and cars to the layout.

“We keep adding to it,” said SCCRH president Scott Wilson. “One of our club members also creates miniature doll houses,

so she’s done a lot. The Boardwalk is just stuffed with people.”

And it was. People were playing on the beach, swimming in the water, and their cars were jamming the parking lot.

The model railroad has been at the fairgrounds since the 1990s after local railroad clubs combined into one organization.

Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Marketing Manager Ron Haedicke said it’s been a boon for the fair.

“Everybody loves a train set and those guys have got a big train set and it’s really awesome. Beside the outdoor display, inside the building is unbelievable because you can literally ride all the way from Pajaro up to Davenport. It’s all there with everything that makes those towns what they are,” he said.

“It’s a labor of love. They are out there all year long.”

The club meets each week to work on the tracks, add touches to the layout and just socialize.

“It’s kind of like a real railroad. You’re always working on something,” he said. “We have all the bells and whistles now.”

Literally. And in addition to the bells and whistles on the trains, they are also engineered to make the correct chugging sound.

Wilson said the track is complicated enough so that there is enough for even more people to do.

“I am constantly looking to recruit new people,” Wilson said. “Our youngest member is 14.”

“Model Railroad” page 27

President’s Passion for the Flower Runs Deep

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By Jon Chown

Rose Society Looks to Grow Membership

here are nearly 200 roses in the Monterey Bay Rose Society Garden on the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds and Daniel Burns loves them all.

Burns is the president of the rose society and was often in the garden during the Santa Cruz County Fair looking to grow, not flowers, but the society.

“In the garden, I’m still learning a lot,” Burns said. “But right now (during the fair) is the time I can recruit people.”

A retired general contractor, the 72-yearold Santa Cruz resident said the different varieties, smells, shapes and colors of roses are amazing. He points out one variety, White Licorice, that actually smells a little like licorice.

Another, the Sexy Rexy, has a beautiful pink ruffled bloom. His personal favorites are the Scentimental, a redand-white striped rose that resembles a peppermint candy stick; the Heart of Gold, which has a golden center with hot pink pedals on the outside; and the Bees Knees, a miniature rose that changes from yellow to pink.

Burns has lived in Santa Cruz for 52 years. He moved here to attend Cabrillo College, where his education led him to be a general contractor.

Daniel Burns 22 / November 15th 2025 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

He then ran his own business, married, raised three daughters and retired. Then he needed something to do, so he joined the rose society.

“I’ve always had a passion for roses,” he said. After joining, he found out he was an excellent advocate and was made president.

Two years later his passion has not waned.

“I come here anytime I want to,” he said.

“It’s wonderful.”

The Monterey Bay Rose Society Garden at the fairgrounds is quite popular.

“Rose Society” page 27

Sublime Sunrise

COMMUNITY NEWS Sparky’s Holiday Lights Returns to Brighten the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds

Photo Credit: Jen Dugan

Sunrise from Sunny Cove County Beach on Nov. 11

WATSONVILLE — The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds will once again transform into a glowing wonderland as Sparky’s Holiday Lights returns for the season.

The popular family event runs Friday through Sunday nights from Nov. 28 to Dec. 24, with special bonus nights Dec. 22–24. Visitors can enjoy both drive-thru and walk-thru experiences featuring thousands of sparkling displays, twinkling tunnels, and festive scenes set to holiday music.

Leading the way is Sparky, the event’s cheerful snowman mascot, who greets guests with a smile and a string of colorful lights.

The annual display has become a favorite local tradition for families across the Pajaro Valley, offering photo opportunities, community spirit, and plenty of seasonal joy. n The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds are located at 2601 E. Lake Ave. in Watsonville. For tickets and more information, visit santacruzcountyfair.com

LOCAL SPORTS

Aptos Volleyball Caps Season With Deep Playoff Run

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he Aptos High girls volleyball team closed out its most successful season in five years, reaching the Central Coast Section Division III quarterfinals and earning its first 20-win season since 2019.

The No. 7-seeded Mariners finished 20-13 overall after falling to Archbishop Riordan High School of San Francisco, the No. 2 seed, in straight sets, 25-14, 25-10, 25-15, on Nov. 4. Junior outside hitter Ella Dueck led Aptos with seven kills, six digs, one ace and one block. Sophomore middle blocker Caitlin Lavelle added a kill and two blocks, while freshman setter Cana Taylor finished with four assists and two digs.

“Riordan’s service pressure and offensive pace were something we weren’t used to seeing in our league,” said head coach Hunter Zeng.

“I hope the experience was eye-opening for all the returners we brought on the road with us.”

Aptos entered the postseason after a strong showing in the Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League tournament, highlighted by a five-set upset of league champion Scotts Valley in the semifinals on Oct. 28.

After dropping all three regular-season meetings to the Falcons, the Mariners battled back for a 22-25, 25-22, 25-20, 17-25, 15-11 victory. Dueck powered the offense with 20

kills, six digs and an ace, while senior outside hitter Kenzie Smith delivered five aces, eight kills, four blocks and eight digs. Freshman right-side hitter Ellie Hardesty contributed six kills and a block, and Taylor distributed 26 assists with one ace and five digs.

“We finally proved our ability to compete and close,” Zeng said. “We faced plenty of adversity, but our systems held up and we finished strong.”

Aptos went on to defeat Pioneer High School of San Jose, the No. 10 seed, in its CCS opener on Nov. 1, winning 25-16, 25-12, 23-25, 25-18 to avenge last year’s postseason loss. Dueck again led the way with 24 kills, five blocks and five digs, while Smith recorded six kills, three aces and 10 digs.

Hardesty added five kills and two blocks, and Taylor combined with junior setter Mady Reed for 38 assists and five aces.

Although the Mariners’ season ended against Archbishop Riordan, Sent said the teams progress marked a major step forward for a young roster.

“It was an honor to lead this group to our best record in five years,” Zeng said. “One of the best parts of this postseason run is that our rookies — including players brought up from JV — will carry this experience with them as they continue with the program.” n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2025 / 23

“Draft Ordinance” from page 13

Hundreds of lithium batteries, sitting adjacent to each other in an old warehouse, caught fire, resulting in evacuations in Moss Landing and neighborhoods nearby. A hazardous plume of smoke drifted north into Santa Cruz County.

Monterey County, with the assistance of the Environmental Protection Agency and other federal, state and regional agencies, continues to collect environmental data on the fire. Soil and water testing has shown some increased levels of heavy metals as far north as Watsonville, but mostly not at high enough levels to be deemed a health risk. Just three of 108 soil samples showed unsafe levels for battery-related metals, including aluminum, cobalt, copper, lithium, manganese or nickel.

Traces of lithium were found in the drinking water, but not at levels deemed unsafe by the EPA. Barium, chromium, cobalt, nickel, vanadium and zinc were found in surface water samples taken nearby, but the levels of barium and nickel were deemed safe for human recreational water activities, including ingesting water or eating aquatic organisms.

There apparently aren’t established measures of safe exposure for the other metals, though they are not entirely safe. For instance, there is no universal toxic level for exposure to cobalt, but it can cause allergic reactions if it touches the skin and can cause lung disease if inhaled.

Vanadium is found naturally in rocks and soil, and also in mushrooms and grains. However,

The BESS facility would connect to the PG&E substation on Minto Road. too much of it, which varies by the individual, is toxic.

Monterey County supervisors have since put a temporary moratorium on any new BESS facilities in the county. On Oct. 28, Supervisor Glenn Church, whose district includes Moss Landing, introduced the proposed halt while safety and regulatory issues are studied further.

A Bump on the Road to Minto

Santa Cruz County’s draft ordinance would not allow a facility similar to the Vistra plant in Moss Landing. Among its requirements are 1,000-foot setbacks from sensitive sites such as schools or residential care facilities and that batteries be stored in single-use buildings or containers, or be

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located outdoors. It also restricts the use of nickel manganese cobalt chemistry, requires continuous monitoring, and consultation with the local fire district before it is built.

A BESS site requires at least 10 acres of land located outside the coastal zone and must be adjacent to an existing electrical substation. There are only three sites in the county that meet these criteria: one on Houts Drive behind Dominican Hospital, another on Freedom Boulevard not far from Aptos High School, and one on Minto Road outside Watsonville. The draft ordinance leaves Minto Road as the only possible site, and nothing it requires would force any significant changes to the BESS project that New Leaf Energy is proposing. The city of Watsonville has taken notice.

On Oct. 14, Christian made a presentation on the proposed Minto Road project to the Watsonville City Council. The reaction was probably not what he hoped for. At the next City Council meeting, Council Member Ari Parker suggested the city draft a letter to the county about the project, and the rest of the council agreed. That letter, expressing the community’s concern and requesting input from the city before any approval of a project on Minto Road, was drafted and approved on Oct. 28.

“People are really upset about it here in South County,” Parker said in a phone interview nearly two weeks after the letter was sent.

Parker said the final ordinance should have requirements for the operator of any BESS project to fund HAZMAT and fire operations nearby. Perhaps a fire department substation could even be required. Regular

funding for such things, not just a one-time payment, should be required.

“But if they don’t put things in there that would require that, it could be a problem,” Parker said. “If the local ordinance doesn’t say you need to fund the local fire municipalities, I fear it won’t happen. Watsonville should have regular funding as long as it has this installation. I mean, $2 million is nothing to PG&E.” PG&E’s budget for 2026 is just under $15 billion.

Another factor in the timeline is that the disaster prompted state legislation — AB 205. Sponsored by Sen. John Laird, the law adds regulations for BESS projects but also allows the California Energy Commission to override local rules with findings of public convenience and necessity. If local regulations are not in place, developers can apply directly to the state. Christian has said that a lengthy delay would add burdensome costs to the project that could sink it. Huge sums of money are required to keep the project’s spot in line to get on the state’s electrical grid, which has to be guaranteed beforehand in order for the project to move forward.

“The county delaying the ordinance, that puts us in a bind,” Christian said in September.

He said at that time that if an ordinance was not in place by August, his company might have to move forward without local input.

Meanwhile, the county’s draft ordinance asks the Board of Supervisors for approval to move forward with environmental review of the proposal at 90 Minto Road, and once the supplemental EIR is completed, hearings at the Planning Commission. According to the draft ordinance, county staff anticipates a year’s worth of work to complete this process, with the supplemental EIR process in the first half of 2026 and adoption public hearings in the second half of 2026.

The proposal at 90 Minto Road would not move forward to public hearings for approval until after the supplemental EIR is completed and the ordinance is adopted in late 2026.

Parker said she fears a disaster will eventually follow any completed project at Minto Road.

“Don’t tell me ‘if it’s going to happen,’ it’s ‘when it’s going to happen,’” she said.

“This is about our homes, our land, our air. I think this draft ordinance is not as tough as it needs to be.” n

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Signs have gone up all around Watsonville opposing the BESS facility.

FEATURED COLUMNIST

History Rhymes Again

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never thought I would see the day.

In the past however, I have always thought I would never actually see the day of something, only to see it, so I know better.

Basically, the world is full of surprises and going along the lines of my previous article June, 2025 entitled “Relax, it’s just life”, when we think things couldn’t get any worse, or whatever might happen will forever send us into the abyss, we press on, and live on, and the Earth just continues to spin on.

So, unarguably, the financial (and capitalistic) capital of the world, New York City, has just elected a self-proclaimed socialist as its mayor.

Will wonders never cease?

No, wonders will never cease to amaze and surprise mankind. And it will likely continue that way long past the time when you and I are dead and buried.

I really can’t blame the people of the Big Apple for Newly-elected their choice, but I New York City Mayor can also say I don’t Zohran Mamdani agree with it. But after all, it is their decision.

The attempt at economic socialism has been tried many times. And I know there will be some that will point to some Nordic country or other dot of a nation and claim it works just fine there, so why not here?

As such, I have my crash helmet on for the incoming.

But seriously, it is their right to vote for whoever they want. And I do understand why.

Throughout history, socialism comes about when a large group of people have trouble affording the basic cost of living yet see others possessing vast sums of money.

I can hear Bernie Sanders now. Oligarchs and billionaires are two words he says well and indeed; it is very effective the way he says them. It even scares me, and I am neither an oligarch or billionaire.

But neither abolishing the oligarchs nor billionaires will make anyone richer or better off. The Oligarchs and billionaires, wherever they may be, are usually the tax base for the society in question. Wiping out them out will wipe out what taxes are collected and thereby make the society even poorer.

But because people don’t really understand how economies and the money in those economies move to and fro, they catcall of government owned resources

By Marc Cuniberti

and government controlled goods allo••• cation strikes a chord with the masses.

This article expresses the opinion of Marc The truth of the matter and And when that chord is played loud Cuniberti and is not meant as investment advice, the crux of the problem is enough and often enough, or a recommendation to buy or you get what New York sell any securities, nor reprepeople can’t afford things. just got: the green shoots of sents the opinion of any bank, And when they can’t afford socialism taking root. investment firm or RIA, nor this things and see people The truth of the media outlet, its staff, members matter and the crux of the or underwriters. Mr. Cuniberti that can, they blame the problem is people can’t holds a B.A. in Economics with current system, whatever afford things. And when Watching The Markets So You Don’t Have To honors, 1979, and California that may be, and look for they can’t afford things Insurance License #0L34249 alternatives. and see people that can, they blame the His insurance agency is BAP INC. insurance sercurrent system, whatever that may be, and vices. Email: news@moneymanagementradio.com. look for alternatives.

Along come the world improvers.

Taking advantage of the calls for change, the communist/socialist agenda sounds like a path to election so enter the candidates touting same. Of course, the agenda always draws in many of the unfortunate.

Like I said, I can’t blame them. The agenda always sounds like the solution.

I have to place the blame squarely where it belongs however.

The root cause of affordability of the masses is inflation. And no, I am not talking about the current rate of inflation, or the ups and downs of inflation. I am talking about the ongoing and consistent inflation baked into the system for more than a century, here and abroad.

The fact that prices rise on everything, consistently over time, as governments spend more money than they take in, pushes prices up always and everywhere.

This would not be an issue if wages kept up with the inflation rate.

But wages always lag price increases.

Always. It’s an unfortunate economic reality.

If wages can’t keep up, and they won’t, inflation enriches the rich even more, all the while increasing the number of impoverished.

63. Hotel room option 30. *Polar bear, a ____ 8. Lost, in Marseille 42. Supercharger ACROSS That, in turn, causes more people mammal 64. *Barents or Laptev 9. Opposite of sun-kissed 45. Glen Powell’s 2023 role, 1. Impromptu (2 words) to ask the government for help, and that 35. Goldfish or koi 66. Blackfin and bluefin 10. Deodorant’s target pl. (2 words) 6. Chop causes the government to spend more 68. Remove location from 11. Native Egyptian, in 37. Memorial Day solo 49. Cuban dance step 9. Little bit, in Cancun money it doesn’t have, causing more digital map 39. Red-dot pointer, e.g.

Roman times 51. Half-shell delicacy 13. Luffa, alt. sp.

40. Purse to match a gown 69. Paul Simon’s former 12. *How many sunsets in a 54. English homework 14. The day before inflation, and around and around we go. partner 41. *Amundsen-____ South year on either pole?

56. Chopin’s composition 15. Rn, a health hazard That’s until Karl Marx rises from the Pole Station 70. Swelling 15. Close again, as in 57. Ad jingle, e.g.

16. Surveyor’s maps dead, spews out the elixir of “we will fix 43. Hipbones 71. Monster’s loch envelope 58. Shakira’s don’t lie 17. Black gunk all your problems”, and then you get the 72. An affirmative 44. Letter H, phonetically 20. Yards and miles, e.g.

59. Milo’s adventurous 18. Run off, as in couple speaking 73. Button on electrical 22. “Slippery” tree canine friend “New York solution”.

19. *Mount ____, Earth’s outlet 46. Biblical twin 24. Quick and clever reply 60. Giant kettles southernmost active And yes, I just coined that word.

47. Frog delicacy 25. *North Pole “base” 61. Change for a five volcano In conclusion, the New York solution, 48. Intellectual DOWN 26. Fraction, e.g.

62. Glacier’s deposit 21. *Antarctica - world’s which now is a socialistic mayor, will fail.

50. Novice or beginner 1. Mountain peak 27. Beastly person 63. *Midnight ____, largest ____ Socialism always does.

52. Café alternative 2. Pineapple producer 29. Front of the head opposite of polar night 23. A Bobbsey twin 53. You, in bygone era 3. Gray-haired 31. Not top-shelf 65. Old-fashioned “before” But it’s a lesson learned, and unfor24. Not to be broken?

55. Ciao, in the U.S. 4. As a rule 32. Part of archipelago 67. Aptitude test, acr.

25. Eyeball shape tunately, is not passed on from generation 57. *____ Nast, imagined 5. The Clash: “Rock the 33. Sound like Secretariat 28.

Minimal distortion to generation. Each generation must painSanta at North Pole ____” 34. Clear the whiteboard fully learn if for themselves. And they will.

60. *The largest lake near 6. Answer to “Shall we?” 36. Ancient Briton © Statepoint Media And yes, my helmet is on.

South Pole 7. Female gametes 38. Dog command Answers on 31 » Let em fly! n

North and South Poles

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2025 / 25

Retrogrades, Thanksgiving, Advent Begins

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Esoteric Astrology • Mid-November 2025 • By Risa D’Angeles

e are in retrograde times. During November (and as the new year begins) humanity is under the influence of seven retrograde (moving backward) planets. Retrogrades are useful.

They offer humanity times of rest and contemplation, a time to assess and reflect upon past decisions.

Retrogrades are like times of sleep where, during the night, our body, emotions and mind regenerate. We awaken each morning refreshed. Retrogrades tell us to delay important decisions, postpone big purchases and allow our minds and emotions to wander about.

November’s retrograde planets (some remaining retrograde through February 2026) are Mercury/communication; Jupiter/ love; Saturn/discipline and structure; Uranus/sudden change; Neptune/spirituality or addiction; Ceres/nurturing; and Chiron/ the wound and the healing. The retrogrades cover multiple areas of life.

Thanksgiving (Thursday, November 27), the festival of food and feast of gratitude, is under the seven retrograde planets, especially retrograde Mercury (communication). Thanksgiving this year therefore may be different than we expect. Knowing this information about the retrogrades we can observe how it is different, understanding that we can adapt to whatever occurs.

Sagittarius is the sign where good food is deeply valued. Sagittarians love food, though that’s secret information and unbeknownst to most.

Food is one of our most important currencies in the world and becoming more so as each day unfolds. Therefore, especially this Thanksgiving, let us offer gratitude for what we have and are given. Gratitude is a sacred science. “Gratitude, a scientific and occult releasing agent, is a service. Gratitude releases us from the past. Our future path appears, leading us to the new culture and civilization, the rising light of Aquarius, the Age of Friendship and Equality. The Great Ones lay much emphasis upon gratitude.” We ask — what are we each grateful for? Let us be grateful together.

Sunday (November 30) following Thanksgiving Advent begins.

Advent means “something’s coming!” — Winter solstice, when the new light appears, celebrated during Hanukkah and Christmas.

Advent prepares us to shift from the dark-half of the year, to the lighted, lifefilled new half of the new year. During Advent, nested in evergreens, we light candles, one for each of the four weeks ‘til Winter Solstice.

And so, joining humanity everywhere, we too light the first candle on the Advent wreath. And now, to everyone, my readers, I wish you a happy Thanksgiving, filled with intelligence, joy, friendship, goodwill and loving-kindness. Risa n

ARIES Everything concerning daily life is pondered upon and reevaluated. Review each morning daily and weekly plans Assess all surrounding environments and the health and welfare of those around you. Assess in what ways you want to change to make life more orderly and pleasant. You realize you must think differently on how to bring forth more beauty and grace. Careful communication is needed with coworkers.

Also assess the state of your health, diet, exercise and the first thing you do upon awakening each morning.

LEO Do not create any shifts or waves in your financial picture.

No loans (given or applied for), for example.

Take this time to review finances, create new budgets (to be applied after three weeks), assess the flow of money (what’s coming in, what’s going out), the hows and whys of these transactions and review if everything monetary is proceeding as planned. Include a review of precious metals based upon your values. And tithe. What we give to others from the heart, returns to us ten-fold.

SAGITTARIUS Notice if there is sensitivity (extra) around these subjects: money, partnerships, joint resources/ finances (something from the past?), speaking with superiors, thinking about career choices, communicating with coworkers, being misunderstood while in public, your life path, your future. It seems like every subject is sensitive.

You ae standing in the burning grounds, being tested. Say over and over, “Don’t worry. Be happy.” Know that you are and everything is perfect!

TAURUS Interesting situations and communication from the past may occur with those close to you, with children, and concerning your sense of creativity. Issues not yet resolved in relationships will reappear. Try to listen to the core message of all communications. Don’t react or defend. These destroy. Instead, learn to listen carefully.

The unresolved issues must be dealt with or there will be a dissolving and dissolution of important connections in the future. Handle and assess all things with care.

VIRGO Are you feeling somewhat inward, in the past, distant and unable to communicate feelings? Do some say you’re difficult and distant? During this time, you’re very internally focused, assessing all aspects of yourself — who you are, why you are, what your values are, your everyday actions, who you’re with and why. And what value you offer to others. You review previous choices, asking if they reflect your present values, wants, hopes, wishes and needs. Hold steady. Let every word be infused with love.

Things change within the month.

CAPRICORN Rest a bit for the next four weeks, make no promises or important decisions, refrain from the following — signing anything into permanence (it won’t be), making travel plans, traveling long distances. Realize thinking, communications, interactions and especially (people) tending to your money (watch carefully) are internally focused so outer orderly realities won’t make sense. It will be a crazy, mixed up, topsy-turvy time. Only you will know why. When lovely or sad, be like the Dalai Lama — laughing all the time.

GEMINI Everything about home, family, early life, mother, nurturance, and things domestic, comes into focus, needing careful evaluation and assessments. Make no important decisions unless an emergency occurs.

Remember everyone in the family is experiencing the present astrological transits. And everyone is experiencing them differently. Use your Gemini mind and heart to observe and discern the differences. You remember to be non-judgmental, non-critical and loving (your purpose).

CANCER Cancer (sign of the crab) always circles a situation, entering the center from every direction.

They do not walk a direct line to anything for they are always wary of prey. Thus, they have a very developed intuition. In the next three weeks that intuition will take on a different tone and focus. Care needs to be taken with communication, thinking, writing and driving. Something from the past reappears. Be aware of forgetfulness. In the meantime, you make the home beautiful, preparing for the holidays.

Daily & Weekly Updates

LIBRA Thoughts, ideas, beliefs, decisions and issues not tended to for a long time, appear in the present seeking attention, consideration, thoughtfulness and e-assessment. Some of your communication may not be heard or understood by others. Therefore, try to be very clear when communicating, speak slowly, listen well. Be nonjudgmental, call forth compassion, retreat for a while.

This retrograde for you is a time of deep quiet, prayer and understanding forgiveness.

SCORPIO With friends and groups all plans may be delayed, changed or not happen at all. Those close to you may seem distant (remember everyone’s internal during retrogrades), quiet or confused. Friends, places, ideas from the past make contact and you consider returning somewhere, to a place, a group or to friendships from long ago. Allow no heartache or anguish from the past to remain in your heart. Visualize, instead, a journey to warm tropical waters.

•••

AQUARIUS You want to be practical. After the retrograde travel would be good. For now, consider new goals concerning money and resources, reaffirm what is of value to you. Eliminate what is no longer useful or what you haven’t used, touched or looked at in the past several months. Use this retrograde time of Mercury to research, order, organize and visualize new ways of building community and finding your like-minded companions. Consider all dreams as practical.

And know there is no failure, ever.

PISCES Maintain clear a communication with partners, intimates and those close to you. All relationships may enter into a phase of mis-understanding, perhaps disappointments, criticisms, over-reactions, mixed messages. There is a need to call upon understanding to occur. Pisces also at this time must begin to assess the value of their own thoughts, decisions and needs and discriminate between the self and their beloved’s. A difficult task, but necessary.

A new home might be necessary. Visualize, draw, paint, collage it. With each act say Ohms over & over.

@risagoodwill • www.nightlightnews.org • risagoodwill@gmail.com

26 / November 15th 2025 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

COMMUNITY BRIEFS Aptos Chamber Celebrates Holiday Season with Tree Lighting & Makers Market

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he Aptos Chamber of Commerce will host its Holiday Tree Lighting & Makers Market on Friday, Dec. 6, from 1 to 4 p.m. at 151 Aptos Village Way, behind the New Leaf Community Market. The festive, family-friendly event is free and open to the public.

Visitors can enjoy live music from the Soquel High Jazz Band and Aptos Local Bagpipes, warm up with hot chocolate and cookies, and take photos with Santa.

The market features more than 20 local artisans offering a wide array of handmade gifts and crafts, including jewelry, candles, ceramics, books, clothing, and wellness products.

Participating vendors include Acton Academy Santa Cruz, Cosmic Opals, Dragonfly Jewelry, Honey Do Gardens, Luxie Jewelry, Paradise Flame Candles, and many others.

The event provides a chance for the community to celebrate the holiday season together, shop local, and support small businesses. Organizers encourage families to attend and enjoy the festive atmosphere, live performances, and unique artisan offerings.

For more information, or to inquire about vendor or sponsorship opportunities, visit www.aptoschamber.com or call 831-688-1467.

•••

Community Bridges WIC Remains Open During Potential Federal Government Shutdown

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ommunity Bridges Women, Infants & Children (WIC) Program remains fully funded and operational ensuring continued support for local families despite the ongoing federal government shutdown.

While some federal nutrition programs—such as SNAP (CalFresh in California)—may experience delays or pauses in benefits starting November 1, WIC participants will continue to receive their benefits without interruption. All scheduled appointments will proceed as normal, and participants can continue to use their WIC cards for healthy food purchases.

“Families depend on WIC to ensure their children have the nutrition they need to thrive,” said Dana Wagner, Community Bridges WIC Program Senior Program Director. “We want to reassure our participants that WIC is open and ready to serve, even during this uncertain time.”

Community Bridges WIC provides nutrition education, breastfeeding support, healthy foods, and referrals to community resources for low-income families with young children and pregnant or postpartum women.

“Briefs” page 27

“Briefs” from page 26 Serving approximately 550 pregnant women, 800 breastfeeding women, 1,100 infants, and 3,800 children under five each month, WIC provides essential nutrition, education, and breastfeeding support to help families build a healthy foundation for their children’s growth and development.

WIC participants are encouraged to keep their appointments and reach out with any questions or concerns about their benefits. ~~~ WIC Office Locations and Hours WIC Watsonville Mon–Fri | 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

18 W. Lake Ave, Suite A • (831) 722-7121 WIC Santa Cruz Mon–Thurs | 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

1105 Water St • (831) 426-3911 •••

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Pace Trails Public Art Project RFP

ounty Parks will select an artist to create a site-specific public art piece for the Pace Trails Project in Felton.

“Model Railroad” from page 22 Wilson said new members don’t have to own any model train equipment. Everything you need is at the club: controllers, locomotives, and cars. Members are encouraged to bring in their own stuff, and can run their own locomotives on the tracks.

“The computer games have really hurt it. Kids today don’t seem as interested in it,” he said.

Wilson is 76, but still a kid at heart when

The Pace Trail Construction Project will expand the existing 4.5-mile Quail Hollow Ranch trail network by connecting to the Pace property with a half-mile Access Trail, finally opening public access to the property.

The project will also create a twomile Loop Trail, rewarding hikers with amazing viewpoints, majestic oak trees, sandhills habitat, and a stunted redwood grove.

The proposed site-specific artwork should enhance the experience of Pace Trail hikers with imagery that reflects the area’s unique habitat, plants, and animals. The budget for the project is $4,900.

A “Call to Artists” including detailed information about the RFP process, trail map/potential art locations, images, and a sample contract are available at: https:// parks.santacruzcountyca.gov/Home/ AboutUs/WorkWithUs/CalltoArtists. aspx.

The deadline for submitting a proposal is December 12, 2025. n

it comes to the trains. One went off track while he was being interviewed and he carefully worked on it until it was back on.

“I started model railroading when I was 11 or 12, and it’s been an on again, off again thing ever since” he said.

But it’s been “On” for a long time now.

Wilson, who has lived in Santa Cruz since 1974, has been with the club for 12 years.

“It’s a lot of fun and I like the people I’m with here,” he said. “It keeps alive a hobby that used to be very popular.” n

“Rose Society” from page 22 “The rose garden is something special.

It’s a highlight for many people. It just makes that corner of the fairgrounds come to life,” said the fairgrounds’ marketing director Ron Haedicke, noting that volunteers made it all happen.

“We do this for the community,” Burns said. “This garden is known far and wide. A lot of people come to visit here.”

The club has one work day each month at the garden, and also meets a second time during the month just to socialize. They swap

stories about roses and try to help each other discover more about the beautiful flowers.

Besides hosting the garden, the club also focuses on education. Burns said the club will have about 300 people at the different pruning demonstrations it will hold in the winter. They are held at the garden and other sites throughout the county.

“Education is a big part of what we do, and there’s a lot to learn” he said. n ••• To find out more about the Monterey Bay Rose Society, go to montereybayrosesociety.org.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2025 / 27

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

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

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

Have a virtual or live event you want to promote?

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

Guests receive a commemorative glass, 12 tasting tickets, and a map of participating locations featuring top regional wineries such as Alfaro, Bargetto, Burrell School, and Windy Oaks.

Presented by De Mattei Construction, this rain-or-shine event pairs small-town charm with outstanding local vintages.

For tickets and details, visit capitolavillage.com.

First Saturdays Second Sundays CAPITOLA BEACH CLEANUP SUNDAY MORNING BREAKFAST 9-10 a.m., Esplanade Park 8:30-11 a.m., Market Street Senior Center, 222 Market Street, Santa Cruz Help preserve and maintain the coastal beauty of BUILDING ALLIANCES IN INDIGENOUS EDUCATION: A CONVENING Capitola. Join a beach cleanup every month at Esplanade The Market Street Senior Center warmly invites the com- FOR INDIGENOUS LEADERS AND PUBLIC EDUCATORS Park. munity for a delightful Sunday morning breakfast every 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Samper Recital Hall, Cabrillo College, 6500 Keep Capitola Salty is a grassroots movement dedicated second Sunday, this month on June 8.

Soquel Drive, Aptos to responsible efforts helping to maintain and preserve Indulge in a delicious array of scrambled eggs, sausage, Cabrillo College, the Santa Cruz County Office of the environment, scenic beauty and coastal recreational hash browns, pancakes, coffee, tea or cocoa.

Education, and the Native American Student Support Comactivities of Capitola.

Donation: Adults, $12; children, $6 mittee host this free, daylong workshop uniting Indigenous Inside seating is available, and To-Go orders are welcomed. leaders and public educators to strengthen partnerships This movement is always looking for volunteers. Email OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS KeepCapitolaSalty@gmail.com.

For information, visit www.marketstreetseniorcenter.org or call and advance Native student success.

7 p.m., Congregational Church Preschool Meeting Room, 4951 (831) 423-6640.

Participants will share best practices and explore ways Soquel Ave., Soquel Second Saturdays to integrate Indigenous perspectives into education.

Overeaters Anonymous welcomes any type of eating HISTORICAL AIRCRAFT DISPLAY Free parking in Lot L. DATED EVENTS disorder or problems with food.

10 a.m.-4 p.m., Watsonville Municipal Airport, 100 Aviation Way Learn more and register at the Native American Studies and No dues, fees or weigh-ins.

Saturday November 15 Watsonville Municipal Airport hosts a Historical Aircraft Student Support Committee website.

Meetings take place at Congregational Church in the Display every second Saturday. Admission is free.

FRIENDS OF THE APTOS LIBRARY PRE-HOLIDAY SALE preschool meeting room.

Sunday November 16 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Aptos Branch Library, 7696 Soquel Drive All are welcome.

Saturdays and Sundays Find books, CDs, DVDs, glass art, photography, and baked ENNEAGRAM 101: THE JOURNEY WITHIN Overeaters Anonymous (OA) has meetings daily both in-person ELKHORN SLOUGH: FREE TOUR OF THE PRESERVE goods at this festive community sale supporting the 12:30 – 2:30 p.m., SoulCare Studios, 8035 Soquel Drive #35, and on-line in Santa Cruz County at santacruzoa.org 10 a.m. | 11 a.m., Elkhorn Slough Reserve, 1700 Elkhorn Road, Friends of the Aptos Library.

Aptos Watsonville Proceeds benefit library programs, events, and literacy Are you ready to embark on the transformative path of Tuesdays Docent-led tours offer visitors a guided introduction to efforts in the Aptos area. Come browse unique gifts and self-awareness?

BINGO AT MCSC enjoy holiday treats.

You are invited to explore how your distinct patterns of 1-3 p.m., Mid County Senior Center, 829 Bay Avenue, Capitola Elkhorn Slough’s remarkable landscapes, wildlife, and tidal wetlands. Each walk is tailored to participants’ For more information, visit friendsoftheaptoslibrary.org. thinking, feeling, and behaving impact how you see the (behind the Party Store) interests and abilities, creating an engaging, educational world, your relationship with yourself and others, and block Hot Dogs, Chili and experience.

CAPITOLA SIP & STROLL you from your fullest expression. snacks available for Space is limited, and tours are first-come, first12 – 5 p.m., Capitola Village — (Check-in 11 a.m., Capitola The Enneagram uncovers our deeper motivations and purchase courtesy of served.

Community Room, 420 Capitola Ave.) beliefs, reminding us that we are so much more than our our Snack Shack. A personalities. lot of fun for all and a Guests can sign up at the Visitor Center front desk or call ahead Sip local wines while exploring more than 30 boutique the same morning at (831) 728-2822 for availability. shops throughout Capitola Village. join International Enneagram Association Accredited possible big win!

Professional Roxanne Harrison as she shares the core Door opens at 12:15 motivations of each type, the unique gifts of each type as p.m.

WEEKLY FARMERS’ MARKETS well as the fears and beliefs of each type.

Through group learning, interactive exercises, and TUESDAY NIGHT SALSA SOCIAL WEDNESDAYS facilitated conversations, participants will discover new 7 – 10 p.m., Abbott Square Market, 725 Front St., Santa Cruz DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ — 1 – 5 PM, Cedar St. & Church St. ways to respond with more clarity, compassion and Join a midweek salsa social at Abbott Square Market A bustling market featuring certified organic produce, artisanal grounded presence. with salsa, cumbia, merengue, and bachata. foods, seafood, baked goods, flowers, and prepared foods. EBT/SNAP Cost: $15 Drop-in, free for members. Register at soulcarestudios.

Free and open to all skill levels—just bring energy and accepted, and Market Match doubles purchases (up to $10). Free entry; com dancing shoes. metered and garage parking available — free after 6 PM. Live local More information: www.abbottsquaremarket.com music and street closures add vibrant atmosphere. Full vendor list and Tuesday November 18 updates at santacruzfarmersmarket.org.

Thursdays THURSDAYS SOROPTIMIST CLUB MEETING SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING CAPITOLA MALL (thru Nov.) — 3:30 – 7 PM, 41st Avenue parking lot, 4 p.m., United Way of Santa Cruz County, 4450 Capitola Road, Capitola Mall 7:15-9:15 p.m., Peace United Church 900 High St, Santa Cruz.

Suite 106, Capitola Seasonal market featuring fresh produce, artisan goods, flowers, and prepared foods. Free entry; mall parking Beginners welcome, partners not required.

Soroptimist International of Capitola-by-the-Sea will review available. Community atmosphere and easy shopping. $10 each. First class free. Come dance! applications for the 2026 Live Your Dream Awards and FRIDAYS begin planning its December holiday party.

HAPPY HOUR WATSONVILLE (Certified) — 3 – 7 PM, Peck St & Main St. The meeting is free and open to the public.

5-7 p.m., California Coffee, 9105 Soquel Drive, Aptos Allyear market offering Watsonville-grown produce, seafood, dairy, flowers, hot foods, artisan goods. Free entry; For more information, visit www.best4women.org or email California Coffee in Redwood Village hosts an open mic metered parking available. EBT/SNAP + Market Match. Vendor news via local AARP events. sicapitola.by-the.sea@gmail.com. happy hour every week.

SATURDAYS HOME ALONE: HELPING YOUR DOG WITH SEPARATION ANXIETY WESTSIDE SANTA CRUZ — 9 AM – 1 PM, Mission St Ext & Western Dr. Third Thursdays 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., online webinar Yearround market offering 100% certified-organic produce, seafood, meats, flowers, prepared meals, espresso SIP AND STROLL Separation anxiety is one of the most common and bar, and artisan goods. Free parking on site. EBT/SNAP + Market Match. Often hosts pop-up breakfast events.

6-9 p.m. (check-in 5 p.m.), Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion Perfect for starting your weekend with fresh food and community energy. Full details at santacruzfarmersmarket.org. misunderstood behavioral challenges that dogs and their Court, Aptos guardians face. A dog who is destructive, vocal, or who APTOS (at Cabrillo College) — 8 AM – Noon, 6500 Soquel Drive Come to the Seacliff Inn: Tapestry Collection by Hilton, for soils the house when alone isn’t doing so out of spite; they Celebrated coastal market with over 90 vendors selling produce, sustainable seafood, artisan breads, honey, a Sip & Stroll event where local artists to show and sell meats, flowers, and hot food. EBT/WIC accepted. Free/year-round weekend oasis for local flavors and crafts. Hosted are truly panicked and are responding the only way they their works. know how.

by MontereyBayFarmers.

Wines are 30% off, and the featured winery will offer In our next webinar, Rebecca Lane, lead separation SCOTTS VALLEY (thru Nov.) — 9 AM – 1 PM, 5060 Scotts Valley Dr. tastings of three varietals for $10 per person. anxiety trainer at the Sacramento-based Tug Dogs, will join Seasonal (May–Nov) market at Boys & Girls Club parking lot. Offers local produce, herbs, eggs, seafood, pastries, Details of this and more Sevy’s events at www.sevysbarand us to help us understand: ready-to-eat food, flowers, live music & family activities. Free parking. EBT/SNAP and Market Match supported. kitchen.com/events • what separation anxiety is (and isn’t!), SUNDAYS • common signs and triggers, LIVE OAK/EASTSIDE — 9 AM – 1 PM, 15th & East Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz Fridays (except First Friday of the Month) • how to avoid amplifying your dog’s anxiety, and Vibrant seaside Sunday market featuring organic produce, fresh seafood, hot food stands (Mexican, crepes, • what you can do to gradually help your dog feel safer LA SELVA BEACH LIBRARY BRIDGE GROUP brunch), pastries, coffee, flowers. Free parking, EBT/SNAP, Market Match, and monthly family-oriented events. when alone.

10:30-Noon, La Selva Beach Public Library, 316 Estrella Ave. WATSONVILLE FAIRGROUNDS — 9 AM – 4 PM, 2601 E Lake Ave, Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Separation anxiety is immensely challenging for dog Come for bridge from 10:30 to noon at the La Selva Year-round market with wide selection of local produce, meats, seafood, crafts, and prepared foods. EBT/SNAP and owner alike, but it is not hopeless. With a deeper Beach library. accepted. Parking onsite. Great for combining a market visit with other Fairgrounds activities. understanding of what our dogs are experiencing, Call La Selva Library to reserve your seat: 831-427-7710.

28 / November 15th 2025 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

COMMUNITY CALENDAR patience, and a methodical approach, progress is possible.

Join us to learn how to support your dog and strengthen the bond you share.

The event is presented at no charge by the Birch Bark Foundation. Register at https://support.birchbarkfoundation.org/ event/separation-anxiety-webinar/e731553

One never knows exactly what to expect at the Parade, but you can be sure to expect the whole community to show up and have a great time. The man of the hour is welcomed back to Downtown Santa Cruz. Bring the family or participate!

The parade route starts at the intersection of Laurel Street and Pacific Avenue and ends at the intersection of Pacific Avenue and Water Street.

The Holiday Parade is Rain or Shine!

Friday November 21 A TRIBUTE TO BOB DYLAN: BENEFIT CONCERT FOR HOUSING MATTERS 7:30 p.m., Kuumbwa Jazz Center, 320-2 Cedar St., Santa Cruz Celebrate the music of Bob Dylan with live performances of Blood on the Tracks and Desire by The Wheel Company and local musicians.

Proceeds support Housing Matters’ programs helping individuals and families transition from homelessness to stable housing.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $29 in advance or $33 at the door.

Learn more at thewheelcompany.com or housingmatterssc.org.

SALVATION ARMY KETTLE KICKOFF BREAKFAST 8 a.m., City Hall Community Room, 275 Main St, 6th Floor, Watsonville The Salvation Army’s annual fundraiser to kick off their famous holiday season campaign.

Visit https://tinyurl.com/SA-kettle-kickoff-2025 for information about attending.

Saturday November 22

Sunday December 7

MOUNTAINFILM ON TOUR: ADVENTURE PLAYLIST Saturday November 15

7 p.m., Rio Theatre, 1205 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz Mountainfilm on Tour brings a selection of culturally rich, adventure-packed and inspiring documentary films curated from the Mountainfilm festival in Telluride, Colorado.

The tour visi​ts the Rio Theatre with films that explore themes connected to Mountainfilm’s mission of using film, art and ideas to inspire audiences to create a better world.​ This year’s Adventure Playlist features mountain biking, skiing, climbing, and athlete-driven stories.

The event supports Second Harvest Food Bank, with a portion of ticket and beer sales donated.

Mountainfilm on Tour in​Santa Cruz has been hosted at the Rio Theatre since 2016.

Tickets and film lineup: riotheatre.com.

ESPRESSIVO ORCHESTRA SERVES UP FOOD, WINE, AND FASCINATING MUSIC! 2 p.m., German Cultural Center Santa Cruz, 230 Plymouth Street Join Espressivo, Santa Cruz’s self-styled “small intense orchestra,” as it ushers in the festive season on Sunday, December 7 with a concert, a silent auction, and a tempting array of snacks and drinks.

The event is a benefit concert for Espressivo, Santa Cruz’s self-styled “small intense orchestra,” which has entertained and enlightened audiences with its eclectic musical offerings since 2015.

Local professional musicians have volunteered their time to create a characteristically adventurous program of chamber music, including rarely performed works by England’s Gordon Jacob, the Parisian Francois Devienne, and America’s own Amy Beach.

Tickets: General admission $40; students $10; available at the door or at www.espressorch.org.

SJSU ALUMNI HOLIDAY BRUNCH/FUNDRAISER Noon, Seascape Golf Course Banquet Facility, 610 Clubhouse Drive, Aptos Join the SJSU Santa Cruz Area Chapter for its annual holiday brunch and scholarship fundraiser.

Added holiday bonus, FREE 3-hour parking in Capitola Friday December 5 Enjoy appetizers, a silent auction, brunch starting at 1 Village from Thanksgiving Day through Christmas Day. p.m., and hear from SJSU President Cynthia TenienteSOQUEL ELEMENTARY WINTER BOUTIQUE Free parking, now that’s a nice gift!

Matson and guest speaker Angelo DeBernardo Jr. Meet In the event of heavy rain, event will be canceled. Check back for 3 – 7 p.m., Soquel Elementary School, 2700 Porter St. scholarship recipients and support future students.

This event is free and open to the public.

Food Truck weather update. onsite, 30+ vendors , Live holiday music by a local student For more information and registration, visit www.sjsualumnisantacruz.org or contact Marilyn Radisch at mradisch47@gmail. band Sunday November 30 Event hosted by Soquel Elementary Home & School Club com or 408-806-2588.

WREATH MAKING AND MIMOSAS Contact: winterboutique2025@gmail.com for more information Thursday December 11 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery AUTHOR VISIT WITH LISA CRAWFORD WATSON – WHAT 1855 41st Avenue, Suite C10, Capitola DECEMBER LUNCHEON WITH SUPERVISOR DE SERPA Saturday December 6 WE WISHED FOR: AN ADOPTION STORY Escape the holiday chaos and create lasting memories 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Dr, Aptos 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m., Capitola Branch Library, Ow Family APTOS HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING & MAKERS MARKET with friends at MOD’s Festive Wreath-Making The local Chamber of Commerce invites Community Room, 2005 Wharf Rd. 1 – 4 p.m., 151 Aptos Village Way, behind New Leaf Community Market Workshop! members and guests to a luncheon Celebrate National Adoption Month with author Lisa Join the Aptos Chamber of Commerce for a festive Indulge in the delightful scents of fresh greenery, featuring Kim De Serpa, 2nd District Crawford Watson as she discusses her memoir, What We afternoon celebrating the holiday season. ribbons, and ornaments as you craft your perfect holiday Supervisor, as the guest speaker.

Wished For: An Adoption Story.

Enjoy local artisans offering unique gifts and crafts, hot centerpiece in our cozy Tinker Space. Let the kids explore Luncheon tickets are $35 for The book chronicles her journey adopting twin girls from chocolate and cookies, and live music by the Soquel High the museum while you create, or enjoy a relaxing morning members and $40 for non-members. foster care and the profound lessons of love, perseJazz Band and Aptos Local Bagpipes.

Kim De Serpa Reservations can be made by visiting the with your friends. It’s the perfect way to unwind and verance, and self-discovery that followed.

Children can take photos with Santa, and visitors can celebrate the season!

Registration is recommended; walk-ins are welcome. shop a variety of handmade items from jewelry, candles, Chamber website: www.santacruzchamber.org. $45 Wreath Making & Mimosas | $110 for 3 Wreath Register at santacruzpl.libnet.info/event/14307734. and ceramics to books, clothing, and wellness products.

Making & Mimosa Tickets (Bring your friends!) | $10 for Friday December 12 Free and open to all. additional Museum guests Saturday December 13 Saturday November 29 For more information, visit www.aptoschamber.com or call For more information, visit https://www.sccmod.org/event831-688-1467.

WATSONVILLE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL SURFING SANTA RETURNS TO CAPITOLA details/holiday-wreath-making-mimosas HOLIDAY ART & CRAFT FAIR Noon – 3 p.m., Capitola Beach in Capitola Village WATSONVILLE HOLIDAY FACTORY SALE 11 am – 4 pm, Kathline King Building (across from Watsonville Bring the family to welcome Santa to the shores of Thursday December 4 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., El Pájaro CDC Kitchen Incubator, 412 East Community Hospital), Airport Blvd.

Capitola Beach! Santa arrives at FULL MOON HIKE AT QUAIL HOLLOW Riverside Drive (and participating locations throughout the Pajaro Kick off the holiday season at Silver Circle’s annual Holiday noon, riding the waves via Kayak for 6 – 8:30 p.m., Quail Hollow Ranch County Park 800 Quail Hollow Valley) Art & Craft Fair! his annual visit to Capitola Village to Road, Felton Shop local and discover products made, grown, and Over twenty juried artisans will showcase handmade visit with all the kids.

Enjoy a quiet exploration of Quail Hollow Ranch, under the crafted in the Pajaro Valley at this festive community quilts, jewelry, ceramics, knitted items, books, and Once Santa lands on shore, moonlight. shopping event. more. he’ll greet the crowd and head to On this one-hour guided hike on the lower trails, you can Start your day at the El Pájaro CDC Kitchen Incubator’s Meet local artists, explore handmade gifts including his beach chair on the Esplanade search for critters and meander through the forest.

Winter Market, then explore participating businesses ceramics, quilts, jewelry, greeting cards, and professional Stage, where he’ll settle in for a Bring flashlights and/or a headlamp (though you may try across Watsonville for holiday gifts, décor, and treats. photography, and enjoy an old-fashioned Christmas nice visit with the kids. to hike without them), and some drinking water. Dress for Presented by the Pajaro Valley Chamber of Commerce and El atmosphere with music by Jesse Martinez.

Be sure to bring your camera to the weather and wear good walking shoes.

Pájaro CDC. For more information, visit pajarovalleychamber.com. Enjoy free hot cider and cookies while listening to capture Santa’s wave-riding arrival, Meet with your guide outside the ranch house before live music by Jesse Martinez. Raffle tickets for featured and your little one’s special visit with Santa. It makes a heading out.

DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ HOLIDAY PARADE artwork are $5 each, with proceeds benefiting Silver memorable holiday photo!

For ages 8 & up. (Ages 15 and under must be accomCircle, a seniors group focused on wellness.

10 a.m. – Noon, Pacific Avenue (Between Water and Locust On this day, we also celebrate Small Business Saturday, panied by an adult.)

Parking and admission are free.

Streets), Santa Cruz so be sure to kick off the holiday shopping season with Space is limited for this free activity. Register in advance by The traditional holiday parade is the official kickoff for the For more information, contact Sonia Westphal at a visit to all your favorite Capitola Village shops and calling 831-454-7901. keson1@comcast.net. n winter holidays celebration. restaurants!

SANTA CRUZ: TURKEY TROT 7 – 10 a.m., Westside Research Park Delaware Avenue, Santa Cruz Go on. Earn that feast! Flat, fast out and back courses that begin & end on Delaware Street by the back entrance to Natural Bridges. A run with spectacular ocean views!

10k, 5k, and kids 1k all offered.

Signature Santa Cruz Track Club finisher socks for all 5k and 10k finishers.

Prizes for top three overall.

For more information and to register, visit https://runsignup.com/ Race/CA/SantaCruz/SCTC2021TurkeyTrot.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2025 / 29

FEATURED COLUMNIST

The Secret Ingredient for Childrens’ Mental Health: Sleep

T

By Dr. Lori Buttewworth

hink about the last time you pulled a late-nighter. Maybe, like me, you stayed up working, binge-watching a show, or just couldn’t turn off your brain.

How’d you feel the next day?

Now imagine that feeling stretched over days, weeks, or even years. That’s what far too many children and teens are experience, and the consequences of insufficient sleep go far beyond morning crankiness.

Kids’ brains are developing at lightning speed. Deep sleep consolidates learning, regulates mood, and strengthens the immune system. Without enough sleep, kids face higher risks of anxiety, depression, behavior problems, obesity, and weaker academic performance. It makes sense, we know how it feels to be sleep deprived.

Kids Need More Sleep Than Adults Realize Sleep isn’t a luxury; it’s a biological necessity. Dr. Rafael Pelayo, a sleep specialist at Stanford and author of How to Sleep: The New Science-Based Solutions for Sleeping Through the Night, says it plainly: “Sleep is not optional.

Sleep is essential for growth, learning, and emotional regulation. A child who is

sleep-deprived is not just tired, they’re impaired.”

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends: • Preschoolers (3–5 years): 10–13 hours per 24 hours (including naps) • School-age children (6–12 years): 9–12 hours per night • Teenagers (13–18 years): 8–10 hours per night Yet most kids fall short. The CDC reports that nearly 60% of middle schoolers and over 70% of high school students don’t get enough sleep on school nights.

Teens are especially at risk. Their circadian rhythms naturally shift during puberty, which means they don’t feel sleepy until later at night. Yet for years, middle and high schools forced teens to wake up long before their brains were ready. That mismatch between biology and policy has contributed to widespread sleep deprivation.

California’s Law on School Start Times Recognizing this problem, in 2022, California passed Senate Bill 328, the first statewide law in the nation requiring later school start times for public middle schools (8:00 a.m.) and high schools (8:30 a.m.).

Still too early, but it’s a start. Research predicts these later start times give teens 30–60 more minutes of sleep per night and has the potential to reduce depression and anxiety, improve academic performance, and even lower the risk of car accidents among young drivers.

But what about the elementary school kids?

The Weekend Catch-Up Myth

I’ve worked with many teens who insist they can make up for lost sleep on the weekend. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way. While an extra hour or two may help a little, chronic sleep debt changes the brain and body in ways that can’t be undone by sleeping in on weekends.

In fact, it can actually make things worse by shifting the body clock, creating a “social jet lag” effect that makes Monday mornings even harder. Consistency, going to bed and waking up at roughly the same time every day, is far more effective than the occasional sleep binge.

Here are some simple ways families can protect kids’ sleep:

JOSE GONZALEZ LANDSCAPING Professional Gardening Services • Tree Trimming, including Grinding Branches and Dump Run • Lawn Care • Sprinkler Systems • Repair/Build Fences • Clean/Repair Gutters • Dump Runs • Hauling • Pressure Wash and Paint on Deck, Driveways, House • Pipe Systems

LOW RATES | ALL WORK GUARANTEED (831) 331-8685 (831) 319-4199 30 / November 15th 2025 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

• Treat sleep like nutrition. Talk about it as a health need, not an optional extra.

• Keep consistent bedtimes and wake times. Even on weekends, this helps anchor the body’s clock.

• Turn off screens at least an hour before bed. Blue light tricks the brain into thinking it’s still daytime.

• Create a calming routine. Reading, dim lights, or a warm bath signal the body that it’s time to rest.

• Avoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening. Sodas, energy drinks, and even chocolate can disrupt sleep.

• Be a role model. Kids notice when adults stay up too late scrolling or working.

So, the next time you say, “I’ll sleep on it,” you’re adhering to the science of sleep, giving your brain a chance to relax, regulate, and regenerate before making a decision. n ••• Lori Butterworth, PsyD, MEd, is a psychologist and founder of the Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health and Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Support Services. She can be reached at lori@ccamh.org or 831-222-0052.

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SCCAS Featured Pet

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Rain Will Increase Until Late Winter

By Tony Tomeo

B

A Crime Spree is Coming!

onnie (A325483) & Clyde (A325484) showed up on the front porch of a home near Watsonville a few weeks ago, tired out from chasing cats around the neighborhood!

No one has come forward to claim them, so these pint-sized purebred Miniature Pinscher partners in crime are now available for adoption!

They appear to be about 4 years old, sporting smooth black & tan coats, short tails, and plenty of athletic terrier energy and mischief.

Bonnie has proven to be an escape artist: scaling or slipping under fences, and Clyde can be a bit competitive with other male dogs … so they’ll need a home (or homes) ready for their terrier vibe — able to provide close oversight and plenty of mental and physical exercise like trick-training, puzzle toys, and active games.

They can be adopted as a pair or individually, and homes without cats and with dedication to regular leashed walks or jogs will be best.

Our low adoption fee of $150 for adult dogs includes spay or neuter surgery, vaccinations, and a microchip. As an amazing bonus during October, the Subaru Loves Pets program is making a donation to our shelter for every pet adopted! We really appreciate Subaru’s long-term commitment to shelter animals and appreciate our local dealer for participating.

Min Pins like Bonnie & Clyde tend to thrive active homes with a securely fenced yard, regular active outings, and opportunities for guided, positive-reinforcement learning — they are working, active little dogs who also like to snuggle once they’re tired out.

To help new dog adopters learn the ropes of positive reinforcement training, our Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter Foundation provides a $200 training voucher to every dog adopter. This can be used with a local certified positive reinforcement trainer so you can learn fundamental training and relationship-building skills and gain insights into what motivates your new dog. 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”) 580 Airport Blvd., Watsonville, 95076 • Hours: Tues.-Sat. 9:30 a.m. – noon; 1–5 p.m. (Closed Sun/Mon) Website: www.scanimalshelter.org SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182 • After Hours: jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us

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Cleaning up such mess is less pleasurable while the weather is wet and cool.

Then, the weather gets messy again.

Rain can not postpone all gardening.

Spring bulbs must get into their garden soil prior to winter chill. Dormant pruning happens later in winter, prior to spring. Fortunately though, gardening is less involved than it is during spring and summer. Maintenance of tools and sorting seed can be indoor tasks for rainy days. So is shopping online for seed, plants or garden tools.

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North and South Poles © Statepoint Media

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The weather is about to change.

efoliation is the colorful beginning. It indicates that the weather is getting progressively cooler. It then gets messy with the first rain. This is inevitable at this time of year. After all, it is late autumn.

Storms will become more frequent as weather simultaneously becomes cooler. So, while gardens are getting wetter, they also take longer to dry between storms.

Ironically, vegetation uses much less moisture while it is so abundant. Deciduous foliage can not perform any evapotranspiration after it defoliates. Evergreen foliage is much less vascularly active while cool. Roots can not utilize all the moisture that autumn and winter rain provides. Soil in some areas might stay moist from now until next spring or summer.

Conversely, summery weather is innately arid and warm. That is how the Mediterranean climate here operates.

Moisture is either scarce or abundant. Rain will eventually stop in spring, and then not resume until next autumn. Summer thundershowers are uncommon. Gardening could likely be easier with a bit less rain for winter, and a bit more for summer.

With more rain expected, irrigation needs seasonal adjustment. Such adjustments might need to be incremental, since weather changes incrementally. Manual irrigation might be either less frequent or less voluminous, or both. The same applies to automatic systems, which have a disabling ‘rain’ option. It turns irrigation off without modifying the schedule.

Besides necessitating modification of irrigation, rain can also be messy. It dislodges and accelerates the deterioration of defoliating deciduous foliage. It causes even formerly dry soil to become muddy. A bit too much rain can cause erosion.

Highlight: Freeman Maple

t combines the autumn foliar color of red maple with the lacier foliar form of silver maple. Freeman maple, Acer X freemanii, is a hybrid of the two. It occurs naturally where ranges of its parents overlap. However, most modern garden cultivars are products of intentional hybridization. Like silver maple, it does not need much chill to exhibit autumn foliar color.

Freeman maple inherits other attributes from both its parents. It combines rapid growth of silver maple with structural integrity of red maple. Although it gets bigger than red maple, it is not as imposing as silver maple. It develops high branches like silver maple, but also is symmetrical like red maple. Big roots are about as complaisant as those of red maple.

Mature Freeman maple trees can grow about forty feet tall and broad. Autumn foliar color is vivid orange and red, and lasts longer than that of red maple. Since Freeman maple is a hybrid, it is mostly sterile. It can not generate an annoying abundance of seed.

Nor can it naturalize in favorable climates. It is an exemplary maple for mild climates such as this. n ••• Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo.com.

Red maple combines with silver maple.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / November 15th 2025 / 31

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

Thank T h a n k you you A Aptos p t o s aand nd L Laa S Selva! elva!

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