Capitola Soquel Times: January 2026

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January 2026 • Vol 31 No. 1

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Year in Review

Capitola Holiday Extravaganza

This year was a difficult one for us at Times Publishing Group, Inc. as we lost our beloved editor Jondi Gumz.

Jondi was a wonderful person and an excellent journalist who served the Santa Cruz County community for decades.

We will always miss her and keep her in our hearts.

Lookback begins page 8

Capitola Village Rings in the Season with Sparkling Day-Long Event

By Tad Stearn

Random Acts of Capitola Kindness

Capitola Village officially kicked off the holiday season on Saturday Dec. 6 with the annual Capitola Holiday Extravaganza. The festive event, organized by the Capitola Village and Wharf Business Improvement Area, welcomed visitors from far and near to enjoy family fun, dining and shopping at local businesses, and even a little partying into the evening hours. ... continues on page 4

Find your one of a kind.

Full Story page 6

Nathan’s Day Brings Holiday Cheer to Children

Christmas came a little early for a group of children who might have mostly missed it otherwise at the annual Nathan’s Day Celebration at Capitola Mercantile on Dec. 13.

Full Story page 18

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Volume 31

No. 1

14

17

19

Table of Contents

11

Cover Capitola Holiday Extravaganza: Capitola Village Rings in the Season with Sparkling Day-Long Event, By Tad Stearn Year in Review – Pages 8, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19

5 6 9 13 18 20 22

23 24 27

Community News Apartment Project is Unapproved: Supervisors Vote to Take Over Approval Process, By Jon Chown Random Acts of Capitola Kindness: Event Brings Community Together for Third Year, By Laurie Hill Winners of Plein Air Contest Announced Brightfield Shines in New Zealand Nathan’s Day Brings Holiday Cheer to Children Farm Animals Returning to the County Fair: California Lifts Ban on Poultry, Dairy Cattle Exhibitions, Clearing Way for Their Return Supervisors Prepare for Phase 2 of Corridor Project, By Jon Chown • No Charges Filed Against Holtzclaw: Monterey District Attorney Decides It Was Self-Defense, By Jon Chown Study Reveals Vistra Fire’s Effects: Calls for Environmental Testing Before and After Events, By Jon Chown Rebele Family Shelter Celebrates 20 Years of Helping Families in Santa Cruz • Cabrillo College Chooses Dr. Jenn Capps as New President Storm Pounds County During Holiday • Community Organizations Come Together to Urge Passage of Childcare Safety Plan • Suspect Arrested in 2012 Murder

Aegis (new?)

Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – New Year, 2026 – A Prayer for Peace on Earth, Goodwill to All, By Risa D’Angeles Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29 Featured Columnists 21 Stock Market Rhymes, By Marc Cuniberti 25 Sixty-Five Years On, Soquel Creek Water District Continues to Look Ahead,

By Dr. Tom LaHue, President, Soquel Creek Water District Board of Directors 30 What Kids Need Most When Parents Divorce, By Dr. Lori Butterworth, Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist 31 Colorful Berries Brighten Wintry Gardens, By Tony Tomeo SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 31 – Puppy Love

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COVER STORY publisher

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editor

Jon Chown

layout

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photography Michael Oppenheimer

website Michael Oppenheimer, Camisa Composti

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“Holiday Extravaganza” from page 1 From late morning and continuing through the afternoon, families, kids and sweet-seekers of all ages participated in the Cookie Walk. The purchase of a ticket granted participants a large red box to collect all kinds of holiday cookies handed out by participating businesses.

The Westerberg family, with a 5-year old boy and 2-year old girl, were juggling two cookie boxes as well as the kids. “We were here last year for the event and decided to come back. We have two little pieces of energy here, all filled up on cookies!” Mom and dad both grew up locally along the coast and were making the most of the day. “It’s lots of fun to support the local small businesses. We

Camisa Composti

media consultants

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Cathe Race

office coordinator distribution

Bill Pooley, Erik Long

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

Entire contents ©2026. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission

Between the cheery decorations, Trike-a-Pose mobile photo booth, free parking, music, VW bus parade and late-night shopping, the village provided a little something for everyone. want our kids to understand the value of shopping small and local, and what that means.”

Between the cheery decorations, Trike-a-Pose mobile photo booth, free parking, music, VW bus parade and latenight shopping, the village provided a little something for everyone.

Village merchants seemed to be enjoying the day as much as the visitors.

Donna, behind the register and helping customers at Capitola Seashells, loved working in the village and was taking it all in. “I love to see the people come out in their holiday outfits and sweaters. Just to see the joy that it brings out in people.

I think this really is a kickoff to the whole Christmas season.”

Brittny Beshore, the new owner of Bay Bar and Grill, shared that sentiment as she handed out cookies along the esplanade.

“It’s so much fun, and it definitely starts getting busy for us this time of year”.

As the sun was setting, staff from Shadowbrook Restaurant and Gayle’s Bakery were getting ready to serve up hot chocolate and cookies at the edge of Esplanade Park. According to Shadowbrook General Manager John Skinner and Banquet Coordinator Alex Lujan, hundreds of cups of cocoa and dozens of cookies were prepared to help warm up the crowd gathering for the tree lighting.

The hot chocolate was custom-brewed by Shadowbrook’s pastry chef.

Try as we might, this roving reporter and trusty assistant photographer

(daughter Sophie) were denied early access to the hot cocoa. But that was fine, since it’s a very bad time to be naughty.

Especially with Santa roaming around.

After a visit from Santa and a greeting from mayor Joe Clarke, the large palm tree at Esplanade Park was lit up in red, green and white as the crowd joined in caroling.

The holiday-themed parade of decked-out VW buses soon cruised through, with the evening wrapping up with the “Capitola SantaCon Meets the Grinch” event at the Brittania Arms for cocktails, karaoke and laughs.

All said, it was a day and night of great weather, great food, great fun, and a whole lot of cookies. n ••• Photos by Tad and Sophie Stearn

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

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COMMUNITY NEWS FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

Apartment Project is Unapproved

Supervisors Vote to Take Over Approval Process

A

By Jon Chown

n apartment building planned on Capitola Road that had already been approved by the Santa Cruz County Planning Commission will have to get approval all over again after a unanimous vote by the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors at its Dec. 9 meeting.

The developer, Workbench, had gotten approval from the Santa Cruz County Planning Commission on Oct. 22 to build a five-story, 57-unit complex at 841 Capitola Road.

The project had been pushed forward using “Builder’s Remedy,” which allows housing projects to move ahead, bypassing local restrictions, if a local Housing Element is not in place.

The supervisors voted to take jurisdiction of the approval process, which will mean another public hearing before it can be approved. While doing so, the board also signaled that other projects recently approved under “Builder’s Remedy,” including a housing project on Paul Sweet Road, might also have a second review.

Santa Cruz County was late submitting its required plan to add more housing, called a Housing Element, to the California Department of Housing and Community Development. As a result, the county’s Housing Element was not certified until April 12, 2024. Workbench submitted its application on April 9, 2024. Other projects were also submitted during that delicate period.

However, according to county staff, the problems were not entirely due to the county as the state admitted that some clerical errors of its own delayed the process.

Neighbors who are against the plan

contend that the state had given the county verbal approval of the Housing Element before April 9 and had threatened to sue if the county approved the project without a second hearing. Neighbors also noted that of the 57 units, only four would be low-income or very low-income units. “This is a paltry number considering the concessions that the applicant is receiving. While we support the county’s mandate for infill development, this project is exploitative and disrespectful to the community,” the neighbors’ appeal reads.

County staff recommended supervisors not take jurisdiction. A staff report contends that the neighbors’ argument falls flat because California law clearly states that a jurisdiction is not in compliance before the date on the Department of Housing’s letter of certification, which is April 9, 2024, and that confirmation by phone is not adequate.

Workbench has also threatened to sue and is currently fighting the city of Santa Cruz in court over the denial of a project. Tim Gordon, of Workbench, said he understood the neighbors’ concerns, but housing is critically needed. Because of “Builder’s Remedy” laws, the county would not be able to stop the development and delaying it for a second hearing would only give the neighbors false hope. “And why give them false hope?” He asked the board.

Supervisor Manu Koenig (District 1) said he didn’t think the punishment from the state fit the crime by the county. “It doesn’t feel that we created a situation that needed a remedy when we were doing everything we could to follow state law,” he said.

“Capitola Road” page 23

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or the third year in a row, Random Acts of Capitola Kindness (RACK) has shown what truly matters — people caring for people. Led by volunteer board members Karin Andersen, Sue Campbell, Dave Aaron, Cindy Kiernan, and Gerry Jensen, RACK continues to remind the community that kindness, compassion, and showing up for one another are at the heart of a strong and connected town.

RACK recently hosted its Third Annual Holiday Party, an evening that was both joyful and deeply meaningful. Neighbors came together not only to celebrate the season, but to lift up those facing some of life’s most difficult challenges. The event raised funds for Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Support Services and RACK, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to supporting families when they need it most.

The evening reflected the best of the local community. Dinner was generously catered by local chef Anthony Guajardo of Mijo’s Taqueria, bringing people together around shared food and conversation. The night concluded with music by the local band The Dig Beats, giving attendees a chance to celebrate, connect, and enjoy the spirit of the evening together.

This year’s gathering carried special meaning with a request on behalf of the Welch family. Caleb, a 14-year-old freshman, was unexpectedly diagnosed with a brain tumor just six months ago. Instead of beginning high school with excitement and plans for sports and friendships, Caleb has faced two brain surgeries, daily radiation treatments throughout the summer, and an ongoing journey of medical care no family is ever prepared for.

In a deeply moving message shared with the community, Caleb’s mother Courtney

expressed both the heartbreak and the hope her family has experienced.

“Watching Caleb’s life be turned upside down has been almost unbearable at times,” she wrote. “But through this incredibly difficult season, one thing has become very clear: we are not walking through this alone.”

Courtney shared how neighbors, friends, and even strangers stepped forward with extraordinary generosity and compassion offering support when the burden felt too heavy to carry alone.

Adding to the evening’s impact, the event featured a special guest speaker, Terry Healey, a cancer survivor and local author.

Terry shared his personal journey and spoke about the critical importance of having a loving, supportive community during times of illness and uncertainty. His message deeply resonated with those in attendance, reinforcing the evening’s central theme: healing is not only medical, but emotional — and no one should face it alone.

“My prayer is for complete healing for my son,” Courtney wrote. “I also pray that through this journey, Caleb grows into a man of character who one day blesses others just as he has been blessed. That is my hope for our entire family — that one day we are able to pass forward the many blessings we have received.”

Attendees described the Holiday Party as a powerful reminder of what community truly means — a space filled with love, empathy, and genuine care, where people gathered not just to give, but to stand beside a family and say, you are not alone. “‘Thank you’ feels insufficient,” Courtney shared. “Please know that we feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for each and every one of you.”

“RACK” page 9

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YEAR IN REVIEW

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his year was a difficult one for us at Times Publishing Group, Inc. as we lost our beloved editor Jondi Gumz.

Jondi was a wonderful person and an excellent journalist who served the Santa Cruz County community for decades.

We will always miss her and keep her in our hearts.

For Santa Cruz County, 2025 saw some progress on some fronts and some disappointments on others.

Take a look back on 2025 with this month-by-month review.

JANUARY

Lithium Battery Fire in Moss Landing

A

fire broke out Jan. 16 and burned for four days at Vistra Energy’s flagship lithium battery energy storage plant in Moss Landing, 10 miles from Aptos as the crow flies, closing Highway 1 (a major route to Big Sur) and schools, evacuating 1,200 people, sending black, toxic smoke over agricultural fields known as the world’s salad bowl, and raising safety questions for a proposed $200 million lithium battery storage system on Minto Road outside Watsonville.

The cause of the fire at the battery storage plant, billed as the world’s largest, at tiny

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Council Member Alexander Pedersen Faces Recall Threat

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oters in Capitola are seeking to remove Council Member Alexander Pedersen from office via recall.

A legal notice signed by 28 voters appeared Friday, Jan. 21, in the Santa Cruz Sentinel.

Among those signing were former mayor Bruce Arthur, former mayor Ed Bottorff, former treasurer Christine McBroom, planning commissioner TJ Welch, Chris Amsden, Kevin Maguire and Cathy LaTorre.

Art to Honor Begonia Fest

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he Capitola Begonia Festival ended its 65-year run in September 2017 when Golden State Bulb, formerly known as Brown Ranch, stopped growing begonias, but it should never be forgotten.

The festival organizing committee recently concluded the end of the era with a gala at the Coconut Grove in Santa Cruz and a $20,000 contribution to the Capitola Arts and Cultural Commission to initiate a sculpture to commemorate the Begonia Festival.

The art honors the contributions of the begonia growers and the multitude of volunteers who maintained 65 years of this Capitola community tradition. It will be installed in February.

Cabrillo College President to Retire

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Cabrillo Ethics Bowl Team to Compete at Nationals

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abrillo College’s Ethics Bowl team has qualified to compete in the 2025 Association for Practical and Professional Ethics Intercollegiate Ethics Bowl National Competition in Norfolk, Virginia, in February.

At the California Regional Competition at Stanford in December, four of the 27 teams competing advanced to the national competition.

Cabrillo College was the only community college team to compete against teams from four-year universities, including UCLA, UC Santa Cruz, UC Davis, UC Riverside, San Diego State University and San Jose State University.

FEBRUARY

A

Jade Street Community Center Renovation to Begin

long-awaited renovation of the Jade Street Community Center took a big step

$15 / Adults – $5 / Kids Ages 10 & Under

Mid-County Senior Center 829 Bay Avenue Capitola, CA 95010 www.mcsc-capitola.org 8 / January 2026 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Geoffrey Nelson and his sculpture “Beguiling Begonias.”

forward on Jan. 30, with the Capitola City Council awarding a $4.726 million contract to SSB Contracting of Salinas.

The vote was 5-0.

With a 9.5% contingency and a $75,000 PG&E upgrade, that brings the total cost to $5.247 million.

The building, owned by the Soquel Union Elementary School District and designated an emergency evacuation center, has not been renovated since it was built in the 1980s.

fter more than seven years of service to Cabrillo College, including landing funds to build the first on-campus student housing, President-Superintendent Matt Wetstein will retire Dec. 31.

“Cabrillo College is a special place in a vibrant region,” said Wetstein. “The faculty and staff at Cabrillo are amazing and have built a caring culture for our students. I have thoroughly enjoyed the time that I have served as its leader … I will always cherish the friendships I have made at Cabrillo and in the Santa Cruz County community.”

Wetstein leaves a 29-year career in public higher education and plans to move to Stockton, where he and his wife, Cindy, have a home — and spend time traveling.

MARCH

Chamber Honors Award Recipients

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n March 21, the Capitola–Soquel Chamber of Commerce honored local individuals and organizations who are making a meaningful difference in the community.

The 2025 award recipients are: • Person of the Year: Joe Palandrani — A local businessman recognized for his tireless dedication to R.A.C.K., the Capitola Wharf Enhancement Project and his leadership and support of Capitola’s community festivals.

• Community Spirit Award: Toni Campbell, Friends of the Capitola Branch Library — A passionate and devoted supporter of the Capitola Library.

• Educator of the Year: Nina Noorzad — An educator at Santa Cruz Montessori, honored for her commitment to education and student development.

• Outstanding Youth Award: Jed Del Favero — A sophomore and class president at Soquel High School, recognized for his leadership and positive impact among his peers.

• Business of the Year: Rodney Wartzok, Capitola Candy Company — Honored for being an active community benefactor through donations to youth and senior programs.

“Year in Review” page 10

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Winners of Plein Air Contest Announced W inners of the 10th annual Capitola Plein Air Exhibition and Sale were announced in November after a weeklong outdoor painting event that culminated in a public exhibition, sale and awards presentation.

Artists competed for a $1,000 grand prize sponsored by local hotelier Dan Aspromonte.

The final exhibition featured live music from local band Cement Ship, all-ages art activities hosted by Art Factory Studios and sponsor Palace Art & Office Supply, food and coffee from El Cafecto, a public raffle tied to artist “trading cards,” and a display honoring the nine previous first-place winners to mark the event’s 10th year.

Organizers said the milestone year drew nearly 700 people to the exhibition and produced record-breaking sales. A Quick Paint event held Saturday on the Capitola Esplanade attracted more than 150 spectators.

The Quick Paint People’s Choice award went to Victoria Galitzine for Sandwich Thief.

During the Quick Paint, Capitola Mayor Joe Clarke issued a proclamation recognizing the artists and organizers who helped establish Capitola Plein Air as a long-running community event. Former organizer Laurie Hill joined Clarke to accept the proclamation.

Current organizer Jaquelyn Johnson recognized past leaders during an artist reception at the Historic Shadowbrook Restaurant.

Judging was conducted by Ryan Reynolds, chair of art and art history at Santa Clara University; Sheryl Knight, a signature member of five national art organizations; and Samantha McNally, past president of the California Watercolor Association.

The winners were: • First place: Carol Tarzier, Evening Fog • Second place: Lisa Zylstra, New Brighton Haze • Third place: Cathy Xu, 4 o’clock Magic • Honorable mentions: Larisa Anaya, Spring Leaves Here; Mila Kirillova, Under the Trestle; Meisha Grichuhin, Rising Mist • Artist’s Choice: Cathy Xu, 4 o’clock Magic Xu, a first-year participant, said she was moved by the welcome artists received in Capitola. The Exhibition People’s Choice award went to Marie Massey, a nine-time Capitola Plein Air participant, for **Sunset Over Capitola**. Massey said the city continues to offer abundant inspiration for plein air artists.

Tarzier, the grand prize winner, encouraged artists to take advantage of fleeting moments outdoors, saying painters should “seize the day … and paint it before it changes.” n

“RACK” from page 6 RACK’s continued work reflects the values that matter most: compassion over convenience, community over division, and kindness put into action.

In moments like these, it becomes clear that the true strength of a town is found in how it supports one another through life’s most difficult seasons. n ••• If you would like to support the mission of Random Acts of Capitola Kindness, please visit www.RACKcapitola. com to learn more or get involved.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / January 2026 / 9

YEAR IN REVIEW the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission, which has promoted a countywide rail trail project requiring demolition of Capitola’s historic trestle.

The resignation came as Capitola-Soquel Times was investigating claims that Pedersen purchased a single-family home in Santa Cruz in February and was living there with his wife.

“Year in Review” from page 8 • Lifetime Achievement Award: Susan Westman — Recognized for her many years of dedicated service supporting families, homes and the overall quality of life in the Capitola community.

J

11 Seniors With Heart Claim First CCS Championship

ose Sierra, the girls’ varsity soccer coach at Soquel High School, writes: “I want to congratulate the Lady Knights for winning the school’s first CCS Championship. From day one, we talked about playing an extra game after the regular season.

The girls committed themselves to train hard, unite as a team and always stay focused. This team persevered. We faced difficulties and opposition, but they showed determination and were rewarded with a CCS championship. I’m extremely proud of this group of young ladies.

They will always remember this for the rest of their lives. It’s truly humbling to be a part of this team’s accomplishment.”

Central Fire Chief Jason Nee to Retire

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entral Fire Chief Jason Nee, 50, will retire this year. He joined Central Fire in 1999.

He lives in Santa Cruz with his wife of 22 years and has two children — a son in college

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and a daughter who is a high school senior.

He also has a chocolate lab named Coco.

APRIL

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Council Upholds Measure L

n April 17, Capitola residents wearing blue circle stickers turned out in force at City Hall, overflowing the chambers to see how the City Council would vote on the biggest issue facing the community.

10 / January 2026 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Would they see, as city staff did, that Measure L — passed by voters in 2018 protecting the historic (1874) rail trestle for active transportation and recreation — had multiple interpretations and could allow detouring the planned Rail Trail onto Park Avenue to lower costs?

After two hours of public comment on interpreting Measure L as codified, City Attorney Samantha Zutler said, “I do think the council should enforce Ordinance 8.72 — or challenge it. There’s no indication the council is prepared to challenge Measure L.” Mayor Joe Clarke said, “I’m all in support of Capitola Ordinance 8.72.”

With all council members voting yes, it was unanimous.

MAY

D

Vice Mayor Pedersen Resigns

uring a closed session of the May 8 City Council meeting, Capitola Vice Mayor Alexander Pedersen resigned, according to Mayor Joe Clarke, who provided no further details.

Pedersen’s departure left a seat vacant on the dais, and Council member Margaux Morgan moved into the chair next to the mayor.

Pedersen also represented Capitola on

Fuse Architecture Offers Wharf Designs for Community Review

he city of Capitola invited residents, business owners and community members to a public meeting May 20 at New Brighton Middle School’s Performing Arts Center to review seven design options for the Capitola Wharf.

The options ranged from maintaining existing fishing concessions and rentals to adding mobile vendors, picnic areas, an open-air market or a permanent restaurant.

JUNE

F

Jondi Gumz Bids Farewell

or the past five years, it has been the joy of my life to serve as editor of Aptos Times, Capitola-Soquel Times and Scotts Valley Times, curating community news, building Coastal Health & Wellness magazine and working for a rare local owner, Patrice Edwards.

However, I must step back to focus on my health. I have lived with breast cancer since 2018. In March, RSV left me with persistent coughing fits despite every attempted remedy.

At this point, I am looking for joy — and my grandchildren are exactly what I need.

Au revoir, until we meet again.

CEO Palacios Announces Retirement Plans

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anta Cruz County Executive Officer Carlos Palacios announced June 19 that he will retire in December.

The County Board of Supervisors announced the decision by Palacios, who has served for nearly 10 years as the county’s top

YEAR IN REVIEW Now Open in the

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Author and Activist John Robbins Dies at 77

ohn Robbins, bestselling author and food activist who relinquished the BaskinRobbins fortune, died June 11 at his home in Soquel. He was 77.

Robbins was best known for his 1987 book Diet for a New America, which explored connections between diet, animal welfare, human health and the environment.

He lived quietly in Soquel, embodying the principles he championed.

The Robbins family requested privacy.

Mental Health, Substance Abuse Programs in Grand Jury’s Final Report

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he final 2024–25 Santa Cruz County Grand Jury report recommends increased county funding to treat behavioral health and substance abuse issues and greater coordination among programs addressing those needs.

According to the Grand Jury, two statemandated reports in the past five years found that the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency needs to do a better job identifying and managing patients with behavioral health and substance abuse challenges.

These patients, described as high-cost beneficiaries, represent about 15% of the county’s client base but account for 55% of claimed services.

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Grand Jury Urges Changes to Building Permit Process

he Santa Cruz County Grand Jury urged the Board of Supervisors to modify building permit rules, consider reducing fees, streamline the process and hire an ombudsman to help the public navigate the system.

The building permit process in Santa Cruz County has long frustrated residents and was previously examined by county grand juries in 2002–03 and 2012–13. Permitting was also reviewed in the 2023–24 CZU fire rebuild report.

A building project may involve few regulations or many, including soils reports, fire road access, water diversion or environmental habitat considerations. The Grand Jury interviewed architects, civil engineers and contractors who have worked extensively in Santa Cruz County and elsewhere.

It also spoke with homeowner applicants and county staff involved in permitting.

The focus was on the “complexity, costs and extended time frames associated with the permitting process,” according to the report.

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Grand Jury Targets Human Trafficking

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uman trafficking goes largely unrecognized and unreported in Santa Cruz County, according to a final report released by the 2025 Santa Cruz County Grand Jury.

The report concluded that a lack of training for adults and education programs for youth is the primary issue, along with poor coordination among agencies that could address the problem.

To combat trafficking, the Grand Jury made 10 recommendations, including forming a countywide trafficking coalition, coordinating with neighboring counties, creating a hotline to report suspected incidents, and improving regulation of massage parlors.

“Year in Review” page 12

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / January 2026 / 11

YEAR IN REVIEW percent sales tax would be necessary. If grants could cover as much as 80 percent, a 1.5 percent tax would pay for it. Either way, it would raise the total sales tax to more than 11 percent and as high as 12.5 percent for most of the county. There would also have to be significant use of the train. It would hold about 230 people and would need to be filled more than 13 times a day to meet even the low end of the projected ridership need.

“Year in Review” from page 11 The Grand Jury interviewed victims and frontline workers who assist them. Human trafficking is a growing problem, the report noted. According to the United Nations, women and girls make up 71% of victims worldwide. The 2026 World Cup events scheduled in Santa Clara County are expected to have an impact on Santa Cruz County, as is the planned development of a year-round event center in Santa Cruz.

Undocumented workers can also be victims of human trafficking. Many have limited education, and reporting abuse can draw unwanted attention from law enforcement.

JULY

Soquel Man Killed in E-Bike Accident

WATSONVILLE — A 78-year-old man from Soquel died in a bicycle crash July 9. His identity had not been released by press time.

At about 1:32 p.m., California Highway Patrol officers responded to a crash on Manfre Road east of Larkin Valley Road. The victim was riding a silver Specialized Level 3 e-bike eastbound on Manfre Road at an undetermined speed.

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Blaze at Sushi Garden

irefighters from Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Scotts Valley Fire Protection District and Ben Lomond Fire Protection District responded to a fire that engulfed Sushi Garden at 820 Bay Ave. According to the Central Fire District, the fire was reported at 3 a.m. When crews arrived, the restaurant was fully engulfed inside and out. A second alarm was immediately requested because of the size and complexity of the fire.

Both the first and second floors burned.

No injuries were reported, and the building was unoccupied at the time. Capitola police, the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office and Pacific Gas & Electric also responded.

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RTC to Survey Mobile Home Sites

he dispute between Castle Mobile Estates and Blue & Gold Star Mobile Home parks and the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission continued, but in July both sides agreed to allow the RTC to survey mobile home lots that appear to encroach on the Coastal Rail Project.

The announcement was made July 19 in a statement from park residents.

“After extensive conversations among Capitola City Councilman Gerry Jensen, housing advocate Cami Corvin and residents of Castle Mobile Estates, many residents have collectively decided to allow the Regional Transportation Commission limited access to the property for surveying purposes,” the statement said.

“Many of our residents, including those who would face serious financial hardship, deserve to have their potential burdens fully understood and documented should the RTC move forward.”

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County Unemployment Rate Rises

abor statistics released in mid-July showed Santa Cruz County’s unemployment rate rose to 6%, with fewer people working in agriculture, manufacturing, trades, transportation and financial activities.

California’s overall unemployment rate was 5.7%. Santa Cruz County’s rate was 5.6% in May and 5.5% in June of the previous year.

The county’s unemployment rate typically peaks in January, exceeding 7% because of seasonal agricultural job losses. Historically, rates are lowest from April through August.

During the summer of 2023, unemployment dipped well below 5%. Last summer, the rate did not rise much above 5.5%. It fell below 5% in May but began climbing again in June.

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New Course, Same Fun at Wharf-to-Wharf

new course and starting point did not diminish the fun at this year’s Wharfto-Wharf race and instead highlighted the event’s resilience, according to many participants.

The event drew 16,000 runners. As they poured into Capitola from the finishing area Sunday morning, most wore wide smiles.

12 / January 2026 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“It was nice. I enjoyed having it switched up a bit,” said Michael Castro of Hollister, who ran his eighth Wharf-to-Wharf. “They did a really good job communicating the differences.”

Arturs Medveds, 25, of Latvia won the race in 27:03. Atsede Tesema, 38, of Ethiopia was the top woman, finishing in 31:02.

Joe Wilton, 93, of Alameda, was the oldest finisher.

AUGUST

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Rail-to-Trail Plan Mostly Derided at Meeting

he Regional Transportation Commission seemed mostly unsatisfied with the latest draft concept report on the rail and trail project, with members voting to have the draft come back to them in December, and, they hope, less expensive.

The draft, properly titled “Milestone 4,” includes both a draft project concept report and a financial analysis. The top concern was cost. The project would cost nearly $4.5 billion. And how much would a trip on the train cost, and how much would the public have to pay in taxes to keep the trains running?

A lot. A one-way ride would likely be $10, possibly more. How much the train will cost taxpayers can only be guessed. Federal and state funding would be available, but how much is unknown.

According to the study, if residents needed to pay half the project’s cost, a 2.25

Santa Cruz Homelessness Drops Countywide

he 2025 homeless Point-in-Time count reveals a mixed but hopeful picture for Santa Cruz County, as overall homelessness dropped 20% from last year to the lowest total since the count began.

The total number of people experiencing homelessness fell from 1,850 in 2024 to 1,473 in 2025, according to the Housing for Health Partnership, which coordinates the annual effort.

However, while the countywide numbers show progress, the count also highlights stark disparities among cities.

The city of Santa Cruz saw a 31% increase, rising from 659 people counted in 2024 to 862 this year. Nearby Capitola saw a 42% increase, from 50 to 71 individuals.

In contrast, other jurisdictions reported steep declines: the city of Watsonville’s homeless population dropped by half, from 673 to 335, while Scotts Valley’s count plummeted 84%, falling from 44 to just 7.

SEPTEMBER

EPA Oversees Battery Removal at Moss Landing

MOSS LANDING — Crews have begun removing lithium-ion batteries from the Moss Landing 300 building at Vistra Corp.’s power plant, launching an extensive cleanup months after a fire damaged more than half of the facility’s energy storage system.

The fire occurred Jan. 16, 2025, at the 300-megawatt energy storage system, which contained approximately 100,000 lithium-ion batteries. Officials estimate about 55% of the batteries were damaged.

“Year in Review” page 14

COMMUNITY NEWS

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Brightfield Shines in New Zealand

heryl Brightfield of Capitola concluded a successful run with the United States Youth National Team at the 2025 International Surf Rescue Challenge in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand, securing several top finishes in the challenging surf conditions.

Brightfield, a member of the 16-athlete U.S. Lifesaving Association (USLA) team, competed in the three-day event held at Mount Maunganui Beach from Nov. 27 to 30.

Her performance was highlighted by two third-place finishes in the mixed board relay events.

She also contributed to the youth female board relay team, which earned a fourth-place finish. Individually, Brightfield achieved a sixth-place result in the youth female individual race, a key points earner for the U.S. squad.

The U.S. Youth National Team ultimately finished fourth overall among 11 nations competing in the U19 division. n

Cheryl Brightfield competes at the 2025 International Surf Rescue Challenge in New Zealand

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / January 2026 / 13

YEAR IN REVIEW habitat restoration to relocation and, in some cases, removal of infrastructure.

“Year in Review” from page 12 Local agencies immediately requested air monitoring, prompting the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to deploy personnel to the site from Jan. 17–20. The state of California later requested that the EPA oversee the battery removal process.

Under a July agreement between Vistra and the EPA, the company is responsible for removing damaged batteries under federal and state oversight.

The initial phase focuses on “intact” batteries — those with no damage or only minor fire exposure — which will be de-energized and, when possible, returned to the local electrical grid. At the same time, crews are stabilizing and partially demolishing sections of the building to safely access the remaining batteries.

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Drone Show, Boat Parade Light Up Capitola

ork & Fork’s “Live from the Capitola Queen River Boat” won first prize during Capitola’s Beach Festival Lighted Boat Parade on a festive Saturday night that also featured the city’s first-ever drone show.

“This is amazing. I’m so happy,” Beach Festival President Mary Beth Cahalen said while watching the drones overhead. “We’ve been working for this moment for two years.”

The drone show and boat parade drew

Survey Shows Strong Support for Pickleball in Capitola

crowds from surrounding communities. Elizabeth Rodriguez traveled from Salinas with her three children, who particularly enjoyed the sand castle contest. “They thought that crab taking a selfie was pretty funny,” she said.

The boat parade proved to be the highlight for many attendees. Five lighted boats — or barges — participated, each reflecting

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County Wins Appeal on 37-Foot Walk

Public access to Rio Del Mar Beach prevailed following a decision issued Sept. 25 by the 6th District Court of Appeal, which granted Santa Cruz County a right-of-way easement through what is known as the 37-foot walk.

Originally 37 feet wide, the 786-foot-long walkway runs along the seaward side of a block of homes from 202 to 300 Beach Drive.

It has narrowed over time because of erosion and the construction of a seawall.

The county has long maintained that the path is essential for safe public access to the beach from a nearby parking lot. The walkway runs behind private homes, and homeowners have used portions of it as patio space.

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14 / January 2026 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

the theme “Vacation Snapshots” through lights and music.

The Capitola Historical Museum chose Hawaiian Gardens as its theme, recreating a small dance room from the historic Prohibition-era Capitola business. The Jewel Boxers team transformed its barge into a smartphone displaying snapshots from a vacation.

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Public Shown Plan for Beaches as Sea Rises

eawalls, raised boardwalks, dune restoration and other measures will be needed to protect local beaches from sea-level rise caused by climate change, according to a new study presented by California State Parks and Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks.

The California Department of Parks and Recreation evaluated a range of approaches for Santa Cruz County beaches, including fortifying existing facilities, relocating vulnerable infrastructure, and hybrid strategies combining natural and engineered solutions.

The challenges facing local beaches include cliff erosion, shoreline retreat, tidal inundation, wave overtopping and temporary beach loss during storms. To mitigate these impacts, proposed solutions range from

apitola residents and their neighbors overwhelmingly support adding pickleball courts, according to a recent City of Capitola survey, with 93% of respondents expressing support.

City staff conducted the survey in April at the direction of the City Council. A total of 329 responses were collected, including 102 from Capitola residents and 227 from surrounding communities.

Among Capitola residents, 84% said they were interested in improved pickleball facilities. Outdoor courts were preferred by 65% of all respondents, and 54% favored dedicated pickleball courts rather than shared use with tennis.

Preferred locations included Jade Street Park, Monterey Park and the Capitola Mall, which was suggested through write-in responses.

Survey results were presented to the City Council at its Sept. 11 meeting. No funding for a pickleball facility is currently included in the city’s 2025–26 budget. Council member Melinda Orbach asked staff how much it would cost to build a pickleball facility.

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Youth Mental Health Center to Celebrate Opening

new resource for youth mental health care is opening in Santa Cruz County, with the Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health set to celebrate the grand opening of its Soquel treatment center Sept. 25.

The event, scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. at 4630 Soquel Drive, Suite 10, will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, a wine-and-cheese reception, facility tours, and youth speakers sharing their experiences.

The center is designed to expand access to evidence-based mental health care for children, teens and young adults.

CCAMH, a nonprofit organization with locations in Soquel and San Luis Obispo, offers therapy both in person and via telehealth. Services include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, exposure and response prevention, and family-based treatment.

In addition to the treatment center, the nonprofit operates specialized programs, including a parent center with support groups, a teen center focused on peer-to-peer engagement, and a First Gen center tailored to first-generation youth.

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BESS Developer May Push Ahead Before County OK

he county’s timeline to draft an ordinance regulating battery energy storage system facilities and the developer’s timeline for a proposed BESS site at 90 Minto Road are

YEAR IN REVIEW

out of sync, raising concerns that the county could miss its opportunity to weigh in on the controversial project.

New Leaf Energy is proposing a 200-megawatt battery energy storage project just outside Watsonville that would connect to the PG&E substation on Minto Road. The approximately 14-acre site is currently an apple orchard that has struggled due to hard clay soil beneath the surface.

The proposal has drawn heightened scrutiny following a January fire at a Vistra Energy-operated BESS facility in Moss Landing. That facility contained about 100,000 lithium-ion battery modules. The fire burned for parts of three days and flared up again a month later, forcing the evacuation of more than 1,200 people and spreading heavy metals throughout the area.

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Local Journalist Jondi Gumz Dies

ocal journalist and Scotts Valley resident Jolande “Jondi” Gumz died in her sleep at home Sept. 11 after a long battle with cancer. She was 72.

Gumz was an editor and reporter at the Santa Cruz Sentinel for 27 years and worked for Times Publishing Group for the past five years. Her beats included education, business, local government and community news. She served four years on the Scotts Valley Unified School District Board and was active in the high school Parent Club.

Born Sept. 2, 1953, in Madison, Wisconsin, she was the daughter of Marcus and Norma Gumz. Reporting was her first love.

She enjoyed talking with people and telling their stories.

Her work earned numerous national, regional and local awards and citations, including a Casey Medal for her series on changes in bilingual education. She endowed a college scholarship at her alma mater, Baraboo High School, for students pursuing careers in writing.

Gumz retired from the Sentinel in 2019 and spent a year deciding retirement was boring. She returned to journalism with Times Publishing Group, which covers community news in Aptos, Capitola, Soquel and Scotts Valley.

Capitola Finalizes Filtered Cigarette Ban

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he Capitola City Council has approved a future ban on the sale of filtered cigarettes, setting in motion a countywide ban scheduled to begin Jan. 1, 2027.

Without further discussion at its Sept. 11 meeting, the City Council gave final approval to an ordinance prohibiting the sale of filtered tobacco cigarettes beginning in July 2027. The item was approved as part of the consent agenda.

The vote marked the ordinance’s second reading, making the approval final. The council first approved the ordinance Aug. 28, voting unanimously with a revision delaying enforcement for two years.

The action allows a countywide ban in unincorporated areas of Santa Cruz County to take effect in January 2027.

In October 2024, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors passed a ban on filtered tobacco products in unincorporated areas, contingent on at least two incorporated cities adopting similar ordinances or a Jan. 1, 2027, start date — whichever came later.

The city of Santa Cruz approved its own ban June 24, also effective Jan. 1, 2027.

OCTOBER

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Crop Report Shows Bounce Back From Slow 2023

fter a slowdown in 2023, Santa Cruz County agriculture bounced back in 2024, with a 13% increase in gross production for a total value of $741,917,000, according to the county agricultural commissioner’s annual crop report released Oct. 8.

Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner David Sanford said the strong numbers reflect a combination of a favorable growing season and good market prices.

“The season was kind of shortened in 2023 because of the storms,” Sanford said.

Strawberries, blackberries and raspberries accounted for 60% of the county’s total gross agricultural production — more than $446 million.

“Year in Review” page 16

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YEAR IN REVIEW “Year in Review” from page 15 The price per ton for berries increased, led primarily by blackberries, which rose 18% from $6,622 to $7,840 per ton. Raspberries climbed from $8,600 to $9,560 per ton, while strawberries increased $11 per ton to finish at an even $2,500.

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Councilmember and Resident End Dispute

apitola City Councilmember Melinda Orbach and Capitola resident Kevin Maguire apologized to each other during the Oct. 9 City Council meeting, apparently ending a bitter dispute that had further divided the community.

The dispute began in April. Ahead of an April 17 council meeting, Maguire was distributing flyers urging neighbors to speak out against a proposed trail route along Park Avenue.

While distributing the flyers, Maguire said he spoke with Louis Cannarozzi and asked whether he knew Orbach and could pass a flyer along to her. Orbach said Maguire asked Cannarozzi where she lived, which she interpreted as a threat. Orbach then accused Maguire of threatening behavior during the April 17 meeting.

Maguire said the accusations were slander. A code-of-conduct hearing was held by the council in September, but his complaint

was dismissed. Maguire had also threatened to file a civil lawsuit.

Thousands Attend No Kings Rallies

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rganizers estimated that more than 15,000 people attended the Oct. 18 No Kings rally in Santa Cruz, with another 2,000plus attending the event in Watsonville.

Both rallies were part of what organizers described as the largest nationwide demonstration in American history, with more than

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Ross Levoy of Santa Cruz stood on a grassy slope listening to speakers at the start of the Santa Cruz rally before protesters marched from San Lorenzo Park to the county building and back.

The park was packed, and Levoy said the crowd appeared to be 20% to 30% larger than the last No Kings event he attended in June.

“Believe it or not, this is the first time I’ve ever protested anything,” said Levoy, a retiree who has lived in Santa Cruz for 43 years. “You can’t hide your head in the sand anymore.”

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16 / January 2026 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

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ob Allen, of Aptos, was warming up with the Pu Pu O Hawai‘i Outrigger Club before the group’s weekly practice Sunday morning, Oct. 26, when tragedy struck.

A white minivan plunged off the Santa Cruz Wharf and quickly sank, killing the driver.

At about 9:44 a.m., Santa Cruz Fire Department officials received a report of a vehicle driving off the wharf. Santa Cruz Fire, Central Fire, Scotts Valley Fire, the Santa Cruz Police Department and State Parks personnel responded.

First responders recovered the driver, William Westerman, a 65-year-old Scotts Valley resident, but he never regained consciousness and was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.

More than a dozen divers searched the murky water for more than an hour for any additional victims but found none.

Allen and his canoe crew, led by Emerson Sanderson, were able to rescue the victim’s dog. Allen said he attempted to rescue the driver but was unable to do so.

He said his crew was in one canoe, with another club canoe just behind, warming up in the harbor, stretching and preparing for practice, when he heard a loud crashing noise.

About 150 yards away, a white van was floating on the water.

“It had landed on its roof, and the windshield appeared to have been blown out by the impact,” Allen said.

“The vehicle was perched on top of the water for maybe eight seconds or less. It was amazing how quickly it sank. As soon as it hit, we all started paddling over to it.”

Advanced Air Mobility to Power Local Economy

SEASIDE — Change is coming to America’s transportation system, and it is being innovated locally, according to regional government and business leaders who gathered Oct. 17 at CSU Monterey Bay for the 2025 Annual State of the Region conference.

Presented by the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership, the conference addressed key issues and trends shaping the regional economy. The event featured legislative updates from state Assembly and Senate members, panel discussions with local industry leaders, and brief expert presentations on emerging trends.

One recurring topic was the region’s growing role in advanced air mobility technology.

“This industry is maturing, and it’s here now,” said Sarasina Tuchen, a senior scientist at the U.S. Department of Transportation, who led an industry panel on the subject.

Tuchen said advanced air mobility includes at least two new aircraft types, along

YEAR IN REVIEW

with companies developing automation systems for existing aircraft. The sector also involves new infrastructure development.

“It’s a rapidly new sector,” she said. “It’s not a single technology; it’s a collection of technologies.”

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New Principal Appointed at Soquel Elementary

he Soquel Union Elementary School District has appointed veteran educator Ms. Birchall as the new principal of Soquel Elementary School, bringing more than two decades of teaching and leadership experience to the role.

Birchall has spent much of her career in the Pajaro Valley Unified School District, serving as a teacher, math instructional coach and school leader. Most recently, she was assistant principal at New Brighton Middle School within the Soquel Union district.

A collaborative leader, Birchall said she believes “the best decisions come from working together as a school community.”

She earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from San Jose State University and a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies from California State University, Fresno.

Over the years, she has served as activities director, student council adviser, GATE liaison, math department chair and data team lead.

NOVEMBER

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Capitola-Aptos Rotary Club Marks 60 Years

he Capitola-Aptos Rotary Club is celebrating 60 years of community service this month, marking decades of support for local students, nonprofits and international humanitarian projects.

Founded in 1965, the club has counted more than 250 members over the years, all committed to Rotary International’s mission of “Service Above Self.”

Through fundraisers such as its annual Kentucky Derby Party and operating the beer and wine booth at Aptos’ Fourth of July celebration, the club has raised more than $1 million to support its work locally and abroad.

Bronze Sealife Enhances Capitola Wharf

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atch where you walk on Capitola Wharf, as visitors are discovering more than 45 bronze sea creatures recently completed by artist Sean Monaghan.

Shining octopuses, sea stars, pelicans, sea turtles and rockfish are embedded in the decking along the wharf. Visitors can follow, count or make rubbings of the sculptures while walking the length of the pier.

Like a scavenger hunt, the realistic creatures lead visitors to spotting scopes, seating areas and signage where they can match each animal to its miniature counterpart on educational panels.

Monaghan owns Bronze Works Foundry and teaches sculpture at UC Santa Cruz and Cabrillo College. His large octopus sculpture also adorns the Santa Cruz Wharf.

“It’s great to know people will get to see the pieces, get to know Monterey Bay better, and see its beauty,” Monaghan said.

The Capitola Wharf Enhancement Project team commissioned Monaghan, who was assisted by Raissa Boysen, as part of artful improvements funded by public donations.

CWEP, a small team of volunteers, raised more than $480,000 for needed topside amenities.

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Foul Play Suspected in Case of Missing Woman

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. Nov. 6 near Rio Del Mar Beach.

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

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Missing Utah Woman Found Safe

ew details were released, but missing Utah woman Danielle Staley has been found safe.

The 35-year-old was visiting Santa Cruz County for the first time. She disappeared after a late-night bonfire near Rio Del Mar Beach on Nov. 6.

“Year in Review” page 19

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / January 2026 / 17

COMMUNITY NEWS

Nathan’s Day Brings Holiday Cheer to Children C hristmas came a little early for a group of children who might have mostly missed it otherwise at the annual Nathan’s Day Celebration at Capitola Mercantile on Dec. 13.

It was the 45th year for the event, which has always focused on children in need. This year there were 220 children, some from foster homes and some who had no home at all, to the event where they played arcade games, enjoyed live music, ate food, met with Santa and received gifts.

Capitola Mercantile owner Peter Dwares, who lives in San Francisco, said he started hosting the event in 1980, just a year after he bought the building. He named it after his father, Nathan Dwares, to honor his memory.

“I do it because I believe in giving back to society,” he said. “And I want to particularly help young children who are vulnerable and need a chance.”

In San Francisco, Dwares founded Pathways for Kids, a nonprofit organization that focuses on helping youth find a career. He received a Jefferson Award in 2007 for his efforts in helping youth.

Forty-five years ago the Nathan’s Day event focused on helping children in wheelchairs, suffering from spinal bifida.

After grain products began to be fortified with folic acid in the 1980s, that problem became far less common. Unfortunately, homelessness among children in the county has increased dramatically, basically doubling over the past 20 years. In 2023 there were 2,709 homeless students in Santa Cruz County, which is about 4%

Peter Dwares with his daughter and grandchild, along with Santa Claus. of all students. So Dwares has shifted his focus over time.

“A lot of these migrant kids don’t get to really experience what Christmas should be,” Dwares said.

Melissa Serriteno, manager of the Capitola Mercantile, said planning for the event started in many weeks in advance.

18 / January 2026 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Hundreds of toys were wrapped, and schools, teachers and social workers were contacted who then reached out to families and children they saw in need.

“We wanted to find the families and children that could use a little extra help for the holidays,” Serriteno said. “It’s very rewarding. Everything is for the kids.” n

YEAR IN REVIEW “Year in Review” from page 17 Her boyfriend, Alex Nunez, said he left to sleep in their van while she stayed on the beach with friends. When he woke up the next morning, he was alone and returned to the beach, where he found her cellphone and purse.

Authorities initially suspected foul play.

“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?” Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Sgt. Zach West said early in the investigation.

West said the couple had been in Santa Cruz County for about a week before Staley disappeared.

The case drew national attention and prompted a large local search effort. Family members traveled to Santa Cruz County to assist in the search.

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Cabrillo Chooses New President

abrillo College’s superintendent/ president search committee has selected Dr. Jenn Capps to lead the school.

Committee Chair and Trustee Christina Cuevas said she and Capps reached a tentative agreement, with a projected start date of Jan. 20. The Cabrillo College Governing Board is expected to vote on Capps’ contract at its Jan. 12 meeting.

In a press release, Cuevas said the committee was “very excited” to recommend Capps, citing her leadership on innovative academic initiatives and her experience building partnerships with tribal nations, advancing sustainability efforts and strengthening workforce development programs.

Capps currently serves as provost and vice president of academic affairs at Cal Poly Humboldt, where she has led major institutional changes since 2020.

DECEMBER

County Declares Food Emergency Over

S

anta Cruz County has ended the local emergency declared last month over food insecurity caused by the federal government shutdown.

On Dec. 9, county supervisors approved ending the emergency, noting that federal nutrition benefits have been fully restored and the acute crisis has passed.

The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors voted to accept a report on the shutdown’s impacts and formally terminate the emergency, which was declared Nov. 4 after the expiration of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program allotments left more than 35,000 county residents without approximately $6.5 million in monthly food benefits.

Local food banks and community groups

reported a surge in demand that exceeded their capacity during the shutdown.

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Supervisors Prepare for Phase 2 of Corridor Project

RESERVE SPACE NOW IN THE SPRING-SUMMER ISSUE OF COASTAL WEDDING MAGAZINE!

T

he Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors took an initial step on Phase 2 of the Watsonville–Santa Cruz Corridor Program by approving a request for proposals to hire a project manager for the Soquel Drive portion of the project, between State Park Drive and Freedom Boulevard.

The board also accepted $3.8 million in funding from the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission to cover most preconstruction costs.

Phase 2 is part of the larger Watsonville–Santa Cruz Multimodal Corridor Program Cycle 4 Project, which aims to reduce congestion and improve travel times and air quality by expanding public transportation options and reducing roadway congestion.

The program includes three mostly parallel routes — Highway 1, Soquel Drive and the Coastal Rail Trail — all of which will converge in the central business district of Aptos.

The Soquel Drive portion of the project will include 3.2 miles of buffered and protected bike lanes, along with the reconstruction of 4,745 feet of sidewalks.

Bus service will be improved along the corridor through a variety of measures, including intersection enhancements and providing buses with signal priority. n

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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / January 2026 / 19

COMMUNITY NEWS

Farm Animals Returning to the County Fair

California Lifts Ban on Poultry, Dairy Cattle Exhibitions, Clearing Way for Their Return

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alifornia officials have lifted a statewide ban on poultry and dairy cattle exhibitions at fairs and shows, a move that will allow the Santa Cruz County Fair to bring back animal exhibits that were absent last year because of disease concerns.

“We are thrilled to have poultry and the dairy cows back with the amazing youth that care for them and show them at the 2026 Fair,” said Dori Rose Inda, CEO/Fair manager Santa Cruz County Fair in a text message.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture announced that the restriction, imposed due to the spread of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza, had been lifted in late December following months of surveillance and review of infection trends in poultry and dairy cattle.

The ban prevented poultry and dairy cattle from being shown at fairs across the state, including the Santa Cruz County Fair, which was unable to host those animals during its most recent run. The absence affected traditional livestock displays and educational opportunities that are a core part of county fairs and youth agricultural programs.

State officials said the decision followed improved understanding of how the virus spreads, declining risk levels, and the implementation of enhanced mitigation measures.

CDFA said it consulted with epidemiologists and animal health partners at both the state and federal levels before lifting the ban.

While exhibitions may resume, the department urged fairgrounds, organizers and exhibitors to maintain heightened biosecurity practices. Animals showing signs of illness should not be transported or exhibited, and veterinarians should be contacted promptly if disease is suspected.

CDFA emphasized that protecting animal health and public health remains a priority

while also supporting agricultural traditions, youth programs and educational exhibits that depend on livestock participation.

20 / January 2026 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

The department said it will continue monitoring H5N1 activity statewide and will work with fair organizers and animal owners to ensure safeguards remain in place.

Additional guidance for exhibitions will be posted on the CDFA website. n Suspected cases of H5N1 in poultry or cattle should be reported to the CDFA Sick Bird Hotline at 866-922-2473.

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Stock Market Rhymes

By Marc Cuniberti

H

istory never repeats exactly but it does rhyme. This means never the same thing happens twice but similar things often do.

I look back at how many articles, shows and newscasts I have done on asset bubbles and I do see a lot of rhyming poetry pieces.

So once again, I delve into another economic children’s rhyme dealing with bubbles, manias and amateur stock buyers.

And yes, the three do go together. And no matter how many times we see stock charts or the price of some other asset go straight up, that “straight up” price action is caused by everybody and their mother buying something just because it goes up.

And the higher and faster it goes up, the more the amateurs pile in thinking they have found the holy grail.

Don’t get me wrong. It’s not just mothers, fathers, daughters and sons that are piling in, but seasoned (I use that word loosely) advisors, investors, news anchors and market cheerleaders as well.

It’s the same with stock prices. Some go And no matter how often I see it, and warn people about it, and write about it, straight up, and some go straight down, but and broadcast over the air about it, the rising they all have a mean. Or better said, straight prices of whatever it is that is rising, keep lines in either direction don’t stay straight forever. And what goes up, goes where now rising.

The price charts of these things, whether class?

Correct. it be stocks, real estate, tulip bulbs, ostrich That doesn’t mean a stock will return to farms, railroads, or a thousand other things that have bubbled up and then blown up, its average range or price. What it does mean is the pattern is always the same. Or at least it that stocks that go straight up for an extended period usually reflect that buyers may just rhymes a hell of a lot.

The latest and greatest include Artificial be buying because the price is going up and Intelligence (AI) stocks. In my August 25th going up fast. That can lead to investors (if you can call them that), just article entitled “Another buying regardless of what Bubble”, I touched on the AI the company under that stocks and their bubble like stock does, what its earnings appearance. I covered the are or what product it sells.

AI mania also in two other Think PETS.COM or articles and a radio show or DOT.COM in general. two.

The DOT.COM stock When we see price Watching The Markets So You Don’t Have To mania was a bubble, charcharts that go straight up, as in almost vertical, I harken back to Economics acterized by the near straight up price chart 101 Class where we learned vertical lines are of many of DOT.COM era stocks.

And yes, it happened with Tulip Bulbs bad. Nature always seeks to return to the “mean”, which is a fancy way to say seeks long ago in the Netherlands, Texas real estate out the averages more often than anything in the oil boom period and like I said, a else. That’s what a mean, means. In other thousand other areas over eons of time and in words, yeah it gets super-hot on some days, countries and regions far and wide.

Fast forward to the AI stocks of today, and super cold on some days, but the average temperature is somewhere in between. Not and once again the proverbial straight up price chart is the movie of the day. rocket science.

The price charts of these things, whether it be stocks, real estate, tulip bulbs, ostrich farms, railroads, or a thousand other things that have bubbled up and then blown up, the pattern is always the same. Or at least it rhymes a hell of a lot.

The last week brought about significant corrections in these stocks as did a few

months back and it seems the party may be coming to an end.

And as usual, there are many hangeroners clasping to the familiar story is that its temporary and it will come back better and higher than ever.

Can’t really say what will happen as such is the way of markets. But those vertical lines in the prices of some of these stocks look hauntingly familiar.

As will the cliffs they fall off of if indeed the party is about to end and the nightmare is about to begin.

Not saying it will happen, but I have read this book before. n ••• This article expresses the opinion of Marc Cuniberti and is not meant as investment advice, or a recommendation to buy or sell any securities, nor represents the opinion of any bank, investment firm or RIA, nor this media outlet, its staff, members or underwriters. Mr. Cuniberti holds a B.A. in Economics with honors, 1979, and California Insurance License #0L34249 His insurance agency is BAP INC. insurance services.

Email: news@moneymanagementradio.com

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Supervisors Prepare for Phase 2 of Corridor Project

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By Jon Chown

he Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors took an initial step on Phase 2 of the Watsonville-Santa Cruz Corridor Program by approving a request for proposals to hire a project manager for the Soquel Drive portion of the project, between State Park Drive and Freedom Boulevard.

The board also accepted $3.8 million in funding from the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission to cover most up-to-construction costs.

Phase 2 is part of the larger Watsonville–Santa Cruz Multimodal Corridor Program Cycle 4 Project, which aims to reduce congestion, and improve travel times and air quality by providing better public transportation options, and less congested roadways. It’s plans contain three mostly parallel routes: Highway 1, Soquel Drive, and the Coastal Rail Trail. All three will converge in the central business district of Aptos.

The Soquel Drive portion will include 3.2

Bus service along Soquel Drive is targeted for improvement during Phase 2 of the Watsonville-Santa Cruz Corridor Program. miles of buffered and protected bike lanes, intersection enhancements and giving buses along with the reconstruction of 4,745 feet of signal priority.

The project will be funded partly by a sidewalks. Bus service will be improved along the corridor in a variety of ways, including $21.3 million construction grant from the

state’s Solutions for Congested Corridors Program, which was awarded in June 2025.

The local share of the costs are estimated at $10.9 million. The $3.8 million SCCRTC grant approved by the supervisors will fund the majority of up-to-construction costs, excluding department overhead.

According to staff documents, the total direct cost for Phase 2 has grown to $31.3 million over time, with more precise numbers to be determined during design and environmental review.

According to county records, the project management consultant is needed to ensure the project is ready to list for construction bids within two years, as required by the state grant. The consultant may also continue into the construction phase if necessary.

Phase 2 follows the nearly complete Phase 1 improvements on Soquel Drive between the city of Santa Cruz and State Park Drive, which included similar upgrades. n

No Charges Filed Against Holtzclaw: Monterey District Attorney Decides It Was Self-Defense

By Jon Chown SALINAS — No charges will be filed against Joshua Holtzclaw of Aromas in the death of Aptos man Trenton Black, the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office announced today. Black died during a confrontation with Holtzclaw at Moss Landing Harbor nearly six months ago.

Chief Assistant District Attorney Berkley Brannon said investigators spent a lot of time and effort on the case, but Holtzclaw was defending himself from Black, so charges are not appropriate.

“When somebody dies like this, we want to very much file charges if we can,” he said. “But Joshua Holtzclaw it was clearly a situation where Mr. Holtzclaw acted in self-defense.”

On June 11, according to a press release from the district attorney, Holtzclaw fished from his stationary boat in Monterey Bay outside and south of Moss Landing harbor.

At around 8:30 a.m., Black, who that morning traveled in his fishing boat from Santa Cruz, motored to the area where Holtzclaw fished. Other fishermen in boats just south of Holtzclaw’s position witnessed what occurred next. One of them had previously agreed to provide Black some bait that day, so that fisherman assumed Black was coming for the bait.

Instead, Black motored southbound and

“When somebody dies like this, we want to very much file charges if we can. But it was clearly a situation where Mr. Holtzclaw acted in self-defense.”

— Berkley Brannon, Chief Assistant District Attorney

approached Mr. Holtzclaw’s boat. He then made a U-turn around it at a radius of about 20 feet, then headed northbound to the harbor.

Based on the actions they witnessed, it was obvious that Black and Holtzclaw exchanged words during the turning maneuver, but the witnesses could not hear what was said.

Holtzclaw then followed Black. A camera pointing northbound toward the channel, about 200 yards from the confrontation, caught what happened next. After Black entered the channel, he slowed down.

Holtzclaw came rapidly from behind Black’s boat and, slowing a bit before the collision, intentionally rammed the rear of it.

As the boats continued to move into the harbor, Black leaped from his boat onto Holtzclaw’s boat. A fight ensued. Two witnesses on opposite sides of the channel, each about 80 yards away, described Black as dominating the fight.

One witness could see Black, the whole time, “beating the hell out of the other guy.”

Holtzclaw was in the bottom of the boat with Black over him, holding Holtzclaw in a headlock and delivering blows. During

22 / January 2026 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

the struggle both men tumbled into the water. Holtzclaw got back into his boat and then swung at Black with an oar or pole.

A larger commercial boat arrived on scene as Holtzclaw paddled his boat away from Black.

The crew saw Black in the water and heard him calling for help. When asked what happened, Holtzclaw replied, “He tried to kill me.” By the time the crew maneuvered the boat so they could throw a life ring toward Black, he “went under” and was no longer visible. Holtzclaw started his boat’s motor and moved off.

The pathologist who performed Black’s autopsy determined his death was caused by asphyxia due to drowning.

Brannon said that if the two men had been in vehicles, the crash would be similar to a fender bender. If charges are to be filed regarding Holtzclaw’s operation of his vessel, that will be up to the Coast Guard.

“It wasn’t of sufficient force to qualify for assault with a deadly weapon. Black didn’t even fall down in his boat. He immediately boarded Holtzclaw’s boat,” Brannon said.

Brannon said investigators spent a lot of time looking at the case, and that there was clearly an ongoing beef between the two. A screenshot of a “nasty text exchange” between the two was found on Holtzclaw’s phone, wherein Holtzclaw “was far less measured in language” than Black. Unfortunately, Brannon said, Holtzclaw had deleted all of the actual text exchanges between the two. As for Black’s phone, Brannon said the DA’s office was fairly certain it was stolen and who did it.

Brannon said an associate of Black’s, who clearly did not like Holtzclaw, is suspected of taking it. The phone was on the boat, he said, and a man was seen on the same video around Mr. Black’s boat. “The phone was there and suddenly it was missing,” he said. “And this individual, when questioned about being a witness, had two phones on his person. He pulled one out of his pocket and it looked like Mr. Black’s phone. It was suspicious.”

Brannon said a search warrant was served at the man’s home, but the phone was never found. The DA’s office also obtained phone records from service provider, but received nothing useful.

“It’s one of the reasons the investigation took so long,” Brannon said.

Brannon said the DA’s office made the final decision on Tuesday and shared it with the family before letting the public know.

“They’re understandably disappointed and I sympathize with them,” he said. n

COMMUNITY NEWS

Study Reveals Vistra Fire’s Effects

Calls for Environmental Testing Before and After Events

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By Jon Chown

new study, likely the first of its kind, found that the fire at the Vistra battery energy storage system plant in Moss Landing spread enough toxic heavy metals to possibly threaten the future environmental health of Elkhorn Slough, with levels of heavy metals found at some places up to 1,000 times higher than before the fire.

The study, conducted by researchers at San José State University’s Moss Landing Marine Labs, showed that the full extent of the pollution would have gone unrecognized without baseline environmental data, rapid testing and new methods of collecting data.

“It seems that if it wasn’t for our work this could have gone largely undetected,” said Dr. Ivan Aiello, who led the study. “Our data show evidence of battery fire metals up to four kilometers away from the storage facility.”

On Jan. 16, a fire destroyed about 75% of the Moss Landing plant, the largest lithiumion BESS facility in the world. The fire burned for two days and then reignited on Feb. 18. It spread ash and soot all around Moss Landing and north into Santa Cruz County. The study looked at where the fallout occurred and how it dispersed afterward. It noted that they were only able to get an accurate picture because the scientists had collected the same data in 2023.

“Having baseline data was essential to rapidly detect the fallout of the metals and then understand how they shifted over time, both at the surface and in the shallow subsurface,” Aiello said.

What he and the team of scientists dis-

“Capitola Road” from page 5 Koenig said he also had concerns about how the Planning Commission came to its decision. He said commissioners asked for information that was not provided them, and that their questions to county staff were not adequately answered.

“They approved the project and I think they erred in doing so,” Koenig said. “I would like to move that the board take jurisdiction, on the basis that the Planning Commission made an error.”

Koenig added that the board should review any other projects that were approved under “Builder’s Remedy” laws, noting the proposed Sweet Home project at 3500 Paul Sweet Road, a six-story, 105-unit housing development.

“I think it’s incumbent upon us to make a list and check it twice,” Koenig said.

Supervisor Justin Cummings said he didn’t like the way “Builder’s Remedy” was

covered was troubling. Surface concentrations of nickel, manganese and cobalt increased dramatically — in some areas as much as 10 to 1,000 times above pre-fire levels — with the pollution clustered in distinct hotspots. The researchers estimate that roughly 55,000 pounds of heavymetal-laden particles fell across the slough.

In the weeks after the fire, surface concentrations decreased somewhat as rainfall and tidal action redistributed the particles, but the contamination did not disappear. Metals remained present in marsh soils and sediments.

“The Moss Landing battery facility is located within a complex and vulnerable landscape. It sits adjacent to Elkhorn Slough, one of California’s largest estuaries, near the town of Moss Landing, and is surrounded by intensively farmed agricultural land. The fallout from the fire’s smoke plume raises serious concerns about contamination of soils, water, and vegetation in this region,” the study, published in Scientific Reports, said.

The study focused on Hester Marsh, located about a mile or two downwind from

the facility. It is a wetland restoration area within Elkhorn Slough. Three days after the fire, when the mandatory evacuation ended, researchers went to the slough and measured the metal pollution using a portable fluorescent X-ray machine. They found a widespread, shallow layer of metal pollution on the surface of the soil that began to disperse due to rain and tides. The contamination was not spread evenly, but appeared in patchy clumps of micron-sized metallic particles consistent with lithium-ion battery cathode materials.

Another important discovery was that “the most significant contamination occurred not adjacent to the site of the fire, but several kilometers downwind.” That, noted researchers, highlights the need for evacuation protocols that use plume-dispersion models, meteorological data, and continuously monitor air quality.

“Fires at lithium-ion battery storage facilities pose emerging environmental risks that remain largely undocumented under real-world conditions,” according to the study.

Because the pollution either entered water or settled into soil rather quickly, it was critical, the researchers wrote, that the measurements were taken right away. It was even more critical that they had previously taken samples from the area that could be compared. Both practices, the study noted, should be followed in regard to future development of BESS facilities and resulting accidents.

“Moss Landing Fire Effects” page 26

The project had been pushed forward using “Builder’s Remedy,” which allows housing projects to move ahead, bypassing local restrictions, if a local Housing Element is not in place. being used either, and that the county really needs to think about what kinds of housing it needs.

“Four-hundred and twenty-five squarefoot studios are going for $3,100 per month.

Seven hundred-plus square-foot one-bedrooms are going for $4,100 per month. There are very few people in this community that can afford that. When we talk about housing, we need to have the housing that is the best fit for our community,” he said.

None of the supervisors seemed opposed to taking jurisdiction and the vote was quick.

The new hearing on the 841 Capitola Road project is to be scheduled to take place within 60 days. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / January 2026 / 23

COMMUNITY NEWS

H

Rebele Family Shelter Celebrates 20 Years of Helping Families in Santa Cruz

ousing Matters is celebrating 20 years of providing safe shelter and supportive services to families experiencing homelessness through the Rebele Family Shelter. Since opening in 2005, the shelter has offered a refuge for families in crisis and a pathway toward long-term stability.

The Rebele Family Shelter, named for Rowland and Pat Rebele, was made possible by a group of compassionate community members who envisioned a safe and supportive environment for families with children. Located at the corner of Highways 1 and 9 in Santa Cruz, the shelter has become a community resource for families facing homelessness.

Operated by Housing Matters, the shelter offers apartment-style units with private bathrooms and showers, giving residents dignity and comfort during a difficult chapter in their lives. At any given time, up to 100 people call the shelter home.

It is one of the region’s only low-barrier family shelters, allowing families to access help without needing to meet restrictive requirements.

“Stable, safe housing is the foundation for everything else — health, education and opportunity,” said Phil Kramer, CEO of Housing Matters. “For 20 years, RFS has been a lifeline for families with children in Santa Cruz County. At Housing Matters, we are committed to creating pathways out of homelessness through interim shelter and supportive housing, ensuring families not only find immediate safety but also have the tools and resources to build lasting stability.”

During their stay, families work with case managers to develop a plan for permanent housing. Residents receive three

meals a day, access to welcoming common areas, and a community play area designed for children. The average length of stay is about six months, during which families are supported in overcoming barriers to stable housing.

Since 2005, more than 675 families have received shelter and critical support services through the Rebele Family Shelter, helping parents and children build brighter futures.

The shelter was funded through state grants, the Kresge Foundation, and local donors, including Rowland and Pat Rebele, Jack and Peggy Baskin, Dick and Mary Solari, Ow Family Properties, Maynard Manson, and Miles and Roseanne Reiter.

“My parents would be very, very proud of the fact that it’s still standing, still being used,” said Chris Rebele, son of Rowland and Pat Rebele. “We really need to focus on shelter, and that’s what Housing Matters is doing.”

Housing Matters partners with individuals and families to create pathways out of homelessness into permanent housing. In addition to interim shelter and supportive housing, the organization provides case management and housing navigation services. Its campus also hosts the county-operated Homeless Persons Health Project and Dientes, a nonprofit dental clinic, making health and dental

services accessible to residents and the broader community.

Since its founding, Housing Matters has helped hundreds of families and individuals find stability, secure housing, and access essential services in Santa Cruz County. For more information, visit www.housingmatterssc.org or connect on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. n

“My parents would be very, very proud of the fact that it’s still standing, still being used. We really need to focus on shelter, and that’s what Housing Matters is doing.”

— Chris Rebele, son of Rowland and Pat

Cabrillo College Chooses Dr. Jenn Capps as New President

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abrillo College’s superintendent/ president search committee has chosen Dr. Jenn Capps to lead the school. Committee Chair and Trustee Christina Cuevas said she and Capps have reached a tentative agreement, with a projected start date of Jan. 20. The Cabrillo College Governing Board is expected to vote on Capps’ contract at its Jan. 12 meeting.

In a press release, Cuevas said the committee was “very excited” about recommending Capps, citing her leadership on innovative academic initiatives and her experience building partnerships with tribal nations, advancing sustainability efforts and strengthening workforce development programs. Capps currently serves as provost and vice president of academic affairs at Cal Poly Humboldt, where she has led major institutional changes since 2020.

At Humboldt, Capps co-led the selfstudy that helped the campus become the California State University system’s third polytechnic university. She also played a

Jenn Capps key role in securing a $458 million state investment to expand workforce-aligned academic programs, boost enrollment and improve student success. Under her leadership, the university earned the Seal

24 / January 2026 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

of Excelencia, an award recognizing commitment to Latino student achievement.

Before her work at Humboldt, Capps was dean of the College of Professional Studies at Metropolitan State University of Denver. In

that role, she expanded public and private partnerships in fields such as health, technology and hospitality, which strengthened both community engagement and the college’s financial stability. Colleagues have described her leadership style as student-centered and strengths-based, with an emphasis on communication and transparency.

Capps holds advanced degrees in counseling psychology, is a licensed professional counselor and has expertise in juvenile rehabilitation and crisis response.

In a statement, Capps said she was “thrilled” to join Cabrillo College and thanked the search committee and governing board for their work. She said meeting faculty, staff and students during the interview process confirmed for her that Cabrillo is “an incredible place.”

“I look forward to working with the Cabrillo team on continuing to further student success and develop innovative programs that will advance the college,” she said. n

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Sixty-Five Years On, Soquel Creek Water District Continues to Look Ahead

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s I begin this year’s term as President of the District’s Board of Directors, I want to thank our community for recognizing the vital importance of water and for supporting our shared efforts to protect the Santa Cruz Mid-County Groundwater Basin—our sole source of clean, fresh water.

You continue to achieve one of the highest water conservation rates in the state, and your support for the District has always been remarkable. We share a long and important history together!

In fact, as Soquel Creek Water District turns 65 this year, I thought we should look at that history, and see how far we have come. What began as a small district with a primary mission of providing flood control, transitioned to a water provider and manager of the local water supply. This included consolidating smaller water providers, developing and improving infrastructure, and groundwater monitoring to protect local aquifers, safeguarding future drinking water quality and availability. Those efforts laid the foundation for both the District’s growth and its ability to meet our community’s expanding need for a reliable supply of highquality water. They’re an example of our district’s consistent focus on the future.

That kind of forward-thinking has continued to be one of our strengths. As the District came to more clearly understand the serious risks of an overdrafted basin and seawater intrusion, we greatly intensified conservation efforts within our community - while also pursuing long-term solutions to this critical challenge.

Our foresight in adopting this dual-track strategy made history in 2025: last month Pure Water Soquel began replenishing our groundwater basin with purified water, helping to create a protective barrier against seawater contamination, and expanding our supply of fresh water. This is clearly our most significant accomplishment of 2025, even though it’s been over a decade in the works.

In fact, before Pure Water Soquel took center stage we spent additional years carefully exploring a range of options to strengthen our water supply and protect the groundwater basin.

For a small agency like ours, achieving this milestone is nothing short of extraordinary, and our entire community can share in the pride of bringing Pure Water Soquel to life—a true testament to what we can accomplish together.

By Dr. Tom LaHue, President, Soquel Creek Water District Board of Directors

Our community’s water future is bright.

You can be confident that we are committed to the highest level of monitoring to ensure the system is functioning as it should and that all checks and balances are in place. We give the utmost care to operating and maintaining the Pure Water Soquel system, updating groundwater models, and tracking how the basin responds to replenishment.

That level of care applies to our entire water system. As we begin 2026, we will continue to reliably provide high-quality water every day to our community – over one billion gallons annually– and carry out our essential functions including pipeline main replacements, infrastructure maintenance, water quality testing, customer service, public communications, and more. In keeping with the District’s forwardlooking approach, we also want to help work toward a long-term sustainable water supply for our entire region.

We can collaborate with other water agencies by facilitating and supporting efforts that will ensure reliable, safe, resilient water supplies for not only our customers, but among partner agencies and neighboring communities as well.

I believe that through 2026 and beyond, this regional perspective is going to be increasingly important. The lessons we’ve learned in developing and implementing Pure Water Soquel are already being shared with other agencies as they move ahead with their own efforts toward water sustainability.

The District is fortunate to have a very talented group of people working on both daily water supply delivery, and longer-term water sustainability efforts. This experience and knowledge could be helpful to other agencies as well.

As a member of the Santa Cruz MidCounty Groundwater Agency (MGA), the District plays a key role in supporting their mission to ensure a safe and reliable groundwater supply is available for everyone who relies on water from the Basin, now and in the future. Pure Water Soquel is the cornerstone of the MGA’s Groundwater Sustainability Plan, which requires the MGA to submit annual reports through 2040 on our efforts to achieve basin sustainability. With Pure Water Soquel now in operation, we are on our way to reaching that vital goal.

The long-term future of water supply is impossible to predict with certainty.

However, it’s clear that within the next couple of decades California will see many

more advanced water purification plants providing water reliability for a great portion of the population. When that time comes, we can look back on the District’s history of these years with great pride, knowing that our small district was a successful early adopter of water purification and reuse, and a harbinger of what was to come.

It’s my honor and privilege to serve as your Board President this year, joining with

all of you to usher in a new age of water supply reliability. n ••• Dr. LaHue has been on the Soquel Creek Water District Board of Directors since 2003, and has served multiple times as President and Vice President. He is a resident of Aptos and works as a veterinary surgeon in Capitola. Dr. LaHue was formerly an environmental science teacher at Aptos High School, and served for six years on the Regional Water Quality Control Board.

Year-in-Review

35. Ginger cookie 65. German submarine ACROSS 37. Master of his castle destroyer 1. W.E.B Du Bois’ org.

39. Use a razor 66. *2025 Ryder Cup loser 6. Rascal 40. British slang for donkey 68. Manuscript sheet 9. Ho-hum 41. Arch and ball locations 69. Brazilian coins 13. “Pomp and Circum43. Winglike 70. Roll-your-own one, for stance” composer 44. March celebrants short 14. Tropical constrictor 46. *Arthur Sze, 2025 ____ 71. To the left, on a boat 15. Forgo Laureate 72. Orpheus’ instrument 16. Tequila source 47. Dam-like structure 73. Geological time period 17. + or - atom 48. *BeyoncÈ’s “Cowboy 74. They are cut by Federal 18. Reason by deduction ____,” 2025 Grammy Reserve 19. *Trade war “weapon,” winner pl.

DOWN 21. *2025 MLB World Series 50. King Kong and Curious George, e.g.

1. At room temperature, winners 52. Like a fox bar order 23. ____-tzu 53. What Pinocchio did 2. Algae, sing.

24. C&H crop 55. *Florida Panthers 3. Petri dish filler 25. Dunce won this org.’s ‘25 4. Raise trivial objections 28. Western necktie championship 5. Ready to be assembled 30. Catch in a snare 57. *”Wicked: ____ ____” 6. Avian wader 61. *Late environmentalist 7. Farm sound and chimpanzee 8. China’s goodwill “____ expert diplomacy”

9. Collision, onomatopoei- 42. Shorthand typist, for cally speaking short 10. *Taylor Swift’s “The 45. Serfs ____ of a Showgirl” 49. 2016 Olympics host, for 11. Affirm solemnly short 12. Third-person possessive 51. Ram’s horn at a pronoun synagogue 15. Makes broader 54. Draw a conclusion 20. Why do they fall in love? 56. Parkinson’s disease 22. *Aryna Sabalenka’s drug seed 57. Roll up 24. Auto contents 58. Heed 25. Pertaining to osmium 59. Lion sound 26. *2025 Academy Awards 60. Dorothy’s last name Best Picture winner 61. *Lady of “The Mayhem 27. Faquir, alt.spelling Ball” 29. Pilot’s stunt 62. Tons (2 words) 31. Spring event 63. Lira, pl.

32. Pneumonia symptom, pl. 64. Land parcels 33. Be of use 67. *Gary Oldman received 34. *Blue Origin’s 2025 this honorific in 2025 singing passenger 36. Boll weevil, e.g. © Statepoint Media 38. *____Seek

Answers on 31 »

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / January 2026 / 25

New Year, 2026 – A Prayer for Peace on Earth, Goodwill to All Esoteric Astrology • January 2026 • By Risa D’Angeles

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his year begins with Capricorn Sun and a Gemini moon — the magical unicorn and the two brothers, hand in hand. The new year will bring new life to humanity, as the outer planets shift and change signs and elements — from water and earth to fire and air. Life once again asserting itself over material forces of the past. And in humanity’s life, hope arising from apparent darkness, disharmony, conflicts and chaos. There is a call for harmony in the hearts of humanity.

A dynamic shift will be occurring in 2026. Whatever has been controlled or blocked will be loosened in the coming year. There will be very fast changes and movements, not one dynamic force, but multiple forces swinging into new areas of experiences.

Truth being revealed. We will move from a standstill to the speed of light.

In this movement, all the ideological hindrances and limitations will weaken. There will be more pragmatic approaches, appraisals, talks on economic growth and security — ideologies giving way to pragmatism. Although there may be some resistance, new expressions and new partnerships will align and shape a multi-response approach.

The sense of an Aquarian atmosphere and equilibrium, an increase in autonomy will begin with all the countries of the world. Everyone will be

ARIES

The time has come to ponder upon all abilities and gifts held within. Eventually they must be offered, like the Magi, to humanity and you must begin to work in groups where men and women of goodwill work. These groups understand the importance of right human relations (esoteric words). Outline your abilities, then create a structure and form on how you can serve with these gifts. This is the future. In the coming year, family and an inner spirituality will be most important to cultivate.

TAURUS

New goals may begin to occur to you that will assist in giving your life the change it needs. Either a world trip or, if that’s a burden, it will be deep study of a philosophy that defines your past, present and future. If that’s too heady, you may discover and pursue art history, forms and new music. And if you’re tone deaf, you may discover new foods. Whatever you do, truth is your keynote and you will, later, “love more.” In the coming year, communication and group interactions (teachings) will be most important to cultivate.

GEMINI

Your nature and being in the world changes and you realize you’re becoming more determined and courageous. Simultaneously you also feel more emotional, and although you want to, sharing is difficult. This creates a challenge within that must be overcome. How to express yourself so you’re understood and while finding it difficult to speak clearly. For the next year, think of yourself as a Taurus/Capricorn. Cultivate a recognition of values, tend to resources and step out into the world offering your gifts.

CANCER

It’s been good to be alone and solitary but now you seek more companionship, friendships and want to be emotionally closer to others. What is most important is to understand what love is. It’s not an emotion. It’s hard to cultivate.

Love is a force. It’s a Light. It’s intelligence, pure reason and it’s magnetic. It emerges, like peace, from intentions and radiations of Goodwill, which create Right Relations.

This is an esoteric formula. Remember it. In the new year, focus on your self-identity and consider a pilgrimage and cultural travel.

Daily & Weekly Updates

asked to form partnerships, allies, each playing their distinctive role. These are simplistic words. But they are outlines that will be filled in over time.

We will witness shifts in the full daylight of time. Fast upheavals, dismantlement, swings to logic, realism, rationality, simplicity and common sense. — the 6th Ray of false idealism moving out, dissolving, giving place to the 7th Ray of Law & Order. We will see the appearance of the coming new life wave of humanity.

We ponder and contemplate upon these ideas, thoughts and words as as the new year unfolds, the year of the fire horse, following the quiet wood snake. The challenges will be finding one’s place, one’s meaning, one’s purpose, one’s true identity, one’s creativity, one’s freedom, one’s people and one’s community. It is time now. And so, a prayer for the coming new year for humanity.

“Let the Forces of Light bring illumination to mankind.

Let the Spirit of Peace be spread abroad.

May men of goodwill everywhere meet in a spirit of cooperation.

May forgiveness on the part of all men be the keynote at this time.

Let power attend the efforts of the Great Ones.

So let it be, and help us to know and do our part.”

(Ext. Hierarchy, A, Bailey) n

LEO

Cancer’s horoscope applies to you, too, for you are the purveyor of love. On the other hand…we must look at your daily work, schedules and health (which could use a bit more love, too). You wish to be free yet you face so many responsibilities. You have all these goals but not much energy to accomplish them. What is the message? That your good health must be the foremost goal you undertake. How can you do this? In the new year, develop your inner spiritual self, go on retreat, seek solitude and seclusion.

Study the mysteries.

VIRGO

You could be challenged by someone to change plans but decide that is not the right decision. At first you decide to communicate as kindly as possible. If this doesn’t work, you continue on and realize that a shift is indeed needed. A new vibration and new thoughts begin to occur. especially in the spring. Make time each day to stand in the Sun to absorb its warmth, love, and intelligence. Kindness is at the heart of all that matters. Tend carefully to relationships and interactions, study Masonry and the history of spiritual communities.

LIBRA

Communication and family may well be most important in the new year. Simultaneously, a deep spiritual awareness will develop slowly yet surely. You may find yourself unexpectedly in the presence of the Divine Mother. Allow your real mother and the Divine Mother to become one and the same. Family matters are most important. Who do you see as your family? Tend to them with care and loving kindness. You know how to do this. Bring to your profession a sense of nourishment and nurturance. And choose carefully all things concerning your health and well-being.

SCORPIO

Try not to let large philosophical or political issues become personal. Allow your intelligence to gather many different thoughts, ideals and ideas. You are to gather and then disperse information just like a Gemini. Local travel is good for you.

Don’t remain at home behind drawn curtains, closed doors or windows. You need to enjoy the outdoors more. Nature is God’s body. It’s calling you to attention, to health and healing, to come and play awhile. It’s your year to be creative, to open the doors of imagination and recognition that you are a very creative being.

A traveler, too.

•••

SAGITTARIUS

Finances, big and small, past and present come more and more into focus. Tend to them but don’t worry about them, and this is important to realize. All your commitments to making more money, all those jobs seeking ways to build a financial future are good up to a point. Exhaustion can take over your pursuit of financial happiness. Professionals can help. Imagine that things will be good in the money department. I’ll remind you again to tithe. Prepare to share more with others, offering all your resources and talents and gifts. See everyone as your family.

CAPRICORN

You have the ability to inspire others to love more by the way you unconditionally love them. When people spend time with you, a calm inner sense of purpose and revelation radiates from you to them. This is the secret of the heart of Capricorn. It is also Jupiter in Cancer, your opposite sign. Goodwill emanates from you and it helps others to become kinder, gentler and better humans. Knowing this about your state of grace actually activates it. Understanding communication is vital in the new year to strengthen as well as soothe those who are anxious. You see the need and respond to the need.

AQUARIUS

The past will be very present in your life, as you gather it all up and offer it to the future. This is good for it allows for a reassessment and a redoing of all things undone or not done quite well enough. It’s possible a parent will appear, or a religious discipline will be either remembered or taken up again. These have the purpose of reactivating feelings which can then be sorted out. It’s like a house cleaning process using green, ecological cleaning products that balance your emotional self.

Focus carefully on resources. Be kind. All those around you (friends) are your actual resources. Eat carefully this coming year.

PISCES

Work has been from dawn ‘til dusk, an endless array of tasks, errands and deep creative work. It’s good. It’s exhausting. It’s calling humanity, calling the new world culture forward, the new world order. Can you hear nature calling? You need nature to walk in the wild, in the sun, on the grass, in the trees each day. Begin to work on future goals, what you want and need? You will learn how to direct thought power to achieve those goals. But they must be named first. Be one-pointed. In the meantime, find play, comfort, children, games, laughter, parties and pleasure. Rest in these for a year or more. You are to learn to have fun.

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

26 / January 2026 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“Moss Landing Fire Effects” from page 23 “NMC-based batteries, when subjected to fire conditions, can emit airborne particles capable of traveling significant distances before settling onto the landscape,” the study notes.

“These results emphasize the need for proactive planning, site-specific risk assessment, and rapid, multi-scale environmental monitoring in the aftermath of battery fires.”

Previous soil and water test results released by the EPA had shown some increased levels of heavy metals as far north as Watsonville, but mostly lower levels than the new study found. Researchers attributed this to the FpXRF technology. “The fallout’s thin, transient and patchy distribution would have eluded standard coring methods,” according to the study.

“Our findings provide rare real-world evidence of the environmental footprint of large-scale battery fires, underscore the value of having a baseline near industrial sites that pose contamination risks, and demonstrate the utility of FpXRF as a practical tool for rapid and spatially intensive environmental monitoring,” the study said.

The Vistra plant is currently being dismantled under the oversight of the Environmental Protection Agency. All the remaining batteries are being removed. The work began in July and is expected to continue throughout most of next year. The EPA began monitoring the air for pollutants from the fire on Jan. 16 and found no risk to public health.

Meanwhile, a proposed BESS plant outside of Watsonville has many local residents afraid of a similar disaster. Santa Cruz County Supervisors will vote on Jan. 13 on a new BESS ordinance that would appear to allow the project. Even if the county tries to stop the project, there’s a chance it could get approved by state regulators, bypassing local approval and control.

“That plant would be right near my dad’s home. I definitely don’t want it there,” said Dave Kegebein, referring to his father John Kegebein, one of Watsonville’s most beloved personalities.

Aiello said he had heard about the proposed plant, but did not know enough to comment on it specifically. “I think that newer BESS are built in smaller units, which would definitely reduce the risk of major battery fires such as in the case of the phase 1 Vistra storage facility,” he said.

However, as the study notes, accidents will certainly happen again. That’s why having a baseline to compare with, as well rapid sampling are very important.

“There are lots of details and lessons to be learned from our study, including the nature of the metal deposit — a very thin dust layer that is hard to detect with conventional sampling — and the fact that much of the signal decreased in the Elkhorn Slough wetlands after the rain and we would have missed it if not for the rapid sampling we did after the fire,” he said. n

COMMUNITY NEWS

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Storm Pounds County During Holiday

n atmospheric river dumped several inches of rain on Santa Cruz County during Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and wind gusts reportedly in excess of 90 mph flipped boats in the Santa Cruz Harbor and toppled trees into power lines in the Santa Cruz Mountains. A tornado warning was even briefly issued on Christmas Day. More than 11,000 people were left without power. Outages were especially significant in the mountains around Brookdale, Ben Lomond, and around Bonny Doon.

In the areas around Nisene Marks State Park there were also significant outages.

The storm was part of a larger weather event that flooded areas throughout the state, especially in the south. Daily rainfall records were set Christmas Eve in Oxnard (3.33 inches), Santa Barbara (3.31 inches) and Woodland Hills (3.96) inches.

The rainfall was not as drastic in Northern California, but PG&E reported more than 40,000 customers without power on Christmas Day. On Dec. 26, most still did not have power. n

Workers clean up Santa Cruz Harbor on Dec. 26, a day after heavy winds blasted through.

Community Organizations Come Together to Urge Passage of Childcare Safety Plan

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ocal community organizations urged California Attorney General Rob Bonta in December to adopt a Childcare Safety Plan as the statewide standard for family preparedness under AB 495.

At a Dec. 8 morning press conference in Watsonville City Plaza, the Pajaro Valley Collabora-tive, in partnership with the Childcare Safety Plan Coalition, announced that the community is nearing 1,000 completed Childcare Safety Plans after a year-long outreach effort. The groups said the milestone shows both the need for and effectiveness of trusted, communi-ty-led work to help families prepare for emergencies.

The Childcare Safety Plan is a confidential tool created by the coalition to help parents designate caregivers, list emergency contacts and ensure children remain with trusted adults during a crisis. With AB 495 now in effect, organizers said adopting the CSP statewide would create consistency across counties and give families a clear resource to use.

“Attorney General Rob Bonta has consistently shown that he listens to Californians and responds with compassion

“My parents would be very, very proud of the fact that it’s still standing, still being used. We really need to focus on shelter, and that’s what Housing Matters is doing.”

— Chris Rebele, son of Rowland and Pat

and clarity,” said Tanya H. Ridino, Attorney. “He has always put the needs of our families first, and we are hopeful that his office will move swiftly and decisively to provide hardworking parents across the state the guidance and tools they need to fully and easily benefit from AB 495.”

Ridino continued: “California families deserve a simple, accessible path to keep their children safe, and we believe the Attorney General is the leader who can make that a reality.”

MariaElena De La Garza, CEO of Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County, told families that completing the plan is straightforward and reassuring.

“The Childcare Safety Plan is one of the simplest and most empowering tools a family can complete. It’s easy to fill out, completely private, and designed to keep children in the care of the people they know and trust. For any parent who’s been worried about what might happen in an emergency, the CSP offers real peace of mind. You can complete it safely, confidentially, and with support from trusted community partners who are here to help every step of the way.”

Speakers also provided guidance on how families can complete their own plans and where to find free support through schools, clinics, legal aid groups and community organizations.

The speakers included Ray Cancino, CEO of Community Bridges; Kate Hinnenkamp, program director at CAB’s Santa Cruz County Immigration Project; attorneys Tanya H. Ridino and Rob Allen of the Childcare Safety Plan Coalition; PVUSD Superintendent Dr. Heather Contreras; Darlene Torres, director of community health services at Salud Para La Gente; and De La Garza. n

Suspect Arrested in 2012 Murder

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anta Cruz County Sheriff’s detectives arrested 63-year-old Colin Sean Tisdale on Dec. 5 for the 2012 shooting death of Jeffrey Stephensen Smith.

On August 16, 2012, at approximately 3 a.m., the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office and medical personnel were dispatched to a residence on Nicasio Way in Soquel for a report of a male suffering from a gunshot wound. Deputies arrived and found Jeffrey Smith alive, but critically injured. Despite immeJeffrey Smith diate medical efforts, he died at the scene shortly after deputies arrived.

Sgt. Zack West of the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office said there wasn’t a big break that led to the arrest, but it was the culmination of a 13-year investigation, with all the pieces finally coming together to point to the perpetrator. Tisdale, who West said was a suspect from the start, was already incarcerated on a separate charge when his arrest warrant for the murder of Stephensen Smith was issued.

“There wasn’t a big break or one piece of evidence that tipped the scales,” West said. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / January 2026 / 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

speakers, vendors, food and hands-on activities exploring the region’s diverse mushrooms, displayed in a recreated woodland habitat.

Admission is $10–$15.

For more information, contact the Fungus Federation of Santa Cruz at hotline@ffsc.us or visit ffsc.us.

First Saturdays community for a delightful Sunday morning breakfast every second Sunday, this month on June 8.

CAPITOLA BEACH CLEANUP Saturday January 10 Indulge in a delicious array of scrambled eggs, sausage, 9-10 a.m., Esplanade Park BEACH CLEANUP AT SUNNY COVE hash browns, pancakes, coffee, tea or cocoa.

Help preserve and maintain the coastal beauty of 9 a.m.–11 a.m., Sunny Cove Beach, Johans Beach Dr., Santa Donation: Adults, $12; children, $6 Capitola. Join a beach cleanup every month at Esplanade Cruz Inside seating is available, and To-Go orders are welcomed.

Park.

Join Save Our Shores for a volunteer beach cleanup at Keep Capitola Salty is a grassroots movement dedicated For information, visit www.marketstreetseniorcenter.org or call Sunny Cove Beach.

(831) 423-6640. to responsible efforts helping to maintain and preserve Registration is required, and all cleanup supplies are the environment, scenic beauty and coastal recreational provided.

Volunteers should wear closed-toed shoes, dress activities of Capitola.

DATED EVENTS in layers, and bring a reusable water bottle.

This movement is always looking for volunteers. Email Parking is limited and there are no restrooms on site.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS Sunday January 4 KeepCapitolaSalty@gmail.com.

More information and registration are available at saveourshores.

7 p.m., Congregational Church Preschool Meeting Room, 4951 DUNGEONS AND DRAGONS FOR ADULTS org.

Soquel Ave., Soquel Second Saturdays 1–5 p.m., Downtown Branch Library, Santa Cruz — Offsite Overeaters Anonymous welcomes any type of eating HISTORICAL AIRCRAFT DISPLAY Step into the world of Dungeons & Dragons for an afternoon DUO QUARTET AT CAFÉ KUUMBWA disorder or problems with food. of collaborative storytelling at the Downtown Branch.

10 a.m.-4 p.m., Watsonville Municipal Airport, 100 Aviation 7 p.m., Café Kuumbwa, 131 Center St., Santa Cruz No dues, fees or weigh-ins.

Open to beginners and experienced players alike, Way Four acclaimed musicians — Nina Gerber, Chris Webster, Meetings take place at Congregational Church in the friendly game masters provide dice, characters and Watsonville Municipal Airport hosts a Historical Aircraft Pam Delgarno & Jeri Jones — join forces as Duo preschool meeting room. guidance.

Display every second Saturday. Admission is free.

Quartet, blending three-part harmonies, dual lead guitars, All are welcome.

This program is for adults 18 and older.

Overeaters Anonymous (OA) has meetings daily both in-person Saturdays and Sundays For details, visit https://santacruzpl.libnet.info/event/14320622. percussion, and multi-instrumental textures.

The evening features original songs, well-loved covers, and on-line in Santa Cruz County at santacruzoa.org ELKHORN SLOUGH: FREE TOUR OF THE PRESERVE plus solo and duo moments.

10 a.m. | 11 a.m., Elkhorn Slough Reserve, 1700 Elkhorn Road, Friday January 9 Tuesdays Doors open at 6:15 p.m., all ages welcome.

Watsonville GET YOUR ENERGY BACK! HOW TO BOOST ENERGY, FEEL BINGO AT MCSC Tickets are $30 general admission and $40 Gold Circle.

GREAT & HAVE UNSTOPPABLE HEALTH More information and tickets are available online.

1-3 p.m., Mid County Senior Center, 829 Bay Avenue, Capitola Docent-led tours offer visitors a guided introduction to Elkhorn Slough’s remarkable landscapes, wildlife, and 1:30–2:30 p.m., Aptos Branch Library’s Betty Leonard Com(behind the Party Store) tidal wetlands. munity Room, 7695 Soquel Drive THE EARTH TONES Hot Dogs, Chili and Each walk is tailored to participants’ interests Learn how to boost your energy, improve health, and snacks available for 6 p.m., Shanty Shack Brewing, 138 Fern St., Santa Cruz and abilities, creating an engaging, educational feel your best in this free class with licensed nutritionist purchase courtesy of Santa Cruz band The Earth Tones bring sweet harmonies and experience.

Rebecca Hazelton. our Snack Shack. A soulful rhythms inspired by 1960s-era Jamaican music.

Space is limited, and tours are first-come, firstDiscover the main causes of low energy, three powerful lot of fun for all and a Featuring drums, bass, keys, vocals, and tenor sax, the served. keys to increase vitality, and practical tools to support possible big win! group blends decades of shared musical experience into Door opens at 12:15 Guests can sign up at the Visitor Center front desk or call ahead overall wellness. an upbeat, danceable sound. Bring your dancing shoes. the same morning at (831) 728-2822 for availability.

This program is for adults 18 and older. p.m.

More information is available online.

For details, visit santacruzpl.libnet.info/events.

Second Sundays TUESDAY NIGHT SALSA SOCIAL Sunday January 11 SUNDAY MORNING BREAKFAST FUNGUS FAIR 7 – 10 p.m., Abbott Square Market, 725 Front St., Santa Cruz 8:30-11 a.m., Market Street Senior Center, 222 Market Street, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., London Nelson Community Center, 301 Center ITALIAN HISTORY LECTURE Join a midweek salsa social at Abbott Square Market 6:30–8 p.m., Cabrillo College, Aptos Campus, VAPA Forum, Santa Cruz St., Santa Cruz with salsa, cumbia, merengue, and bachata.

The Market Street Senior Center warmly invites the The Santa Cruz Fungus Fair offers three days of exhibits, Room 1001, 6500 Soquel Dr. Free and open to all skill levels—just bring energy and Join Kathleen Gonzalez, author of **A Beautiful Woman in dancing shoes.

Venice**, for an engaging talk on the history of women in More information: www.abbottsquaremarket.com Venice.

WEEKLY FARMERS’ MARKETS Learn about Venetian women—from writers and Thursdays WEDNESDAYS painters to courtesans and composers—and their place SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ — 1 – 5 PM, Cedar St. & Church St. in history.

7:15-9:15 p.m., Peace United Church 900 High St, Santa Cruz.

A bustling market featuring certified organic produce, artisanal Sponsored by Dante Alighieri Society of Santa Cruz.

Beginners welcome, partners not required. foods, seafood, baked goods, flowers, and prepared foods. EBT/SNAP No tickets required; seating is limited. Cash donations $10 each. First class free. Come dance! accepted, and Market Match doubles purchases (up to $10). Free entry; welcome at the door. metered and garage parking available — free after 6 PM. Live local More info: https://bit.ly/Dante-January2026 HAPPY HOUR music and street closures add vibrant atmosphere. Full vendor list and 5-7 p.m., California Coffee, 9105 Soquel Drive, Aptos updates at santacruzfarmersmarket.org.

Monday January 12 California Coffee in Redwood Village hosts an open mic FRIDAYS HOUSING MATTERS EMPLOYMENT NAVIGATION happy hour every week.

WATSONVILLE (Certified) — 3 – 7 PM, Peck St & Main St. 10 a.m.–12 p.m., Downtown Branch Library, Life Literacies Allyear market offering Watsonville-grown produce, seafood, dairy, flowers, hot foods, artisan goods. Free entry; Third Thursdays Center, Santa Cruz metered parking available. EBT/SNAP + Market Match. Vendor news via local AARP events.

SIP AND STROLL CalFresh recipients can get help finding employment with SATURDAYS guidance from the Housing Matters Employment Navigator.

6-9 p.m. (check-in 5 p.m.), Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion WESTSIDE SANTA CRUZ — 9 AM – 1 PM, Mission St Ext & Western Dr. This program is designed to support adults in exploring Court, Aptos Yearround market offering 100% certified-organic produce, seafood, meats, flowers, prepared meals, espresso job opportunities and accessing resources.

Come to the Seacliff Inn: Tapestry Collection by Hilton, for bar, and artisan goods. Free parking on site. EBT/SNAP + Market Match. Often hosts pop-up breakfast events.

For details, visit santacruzpl.libnet.info/events. a Sip & Stroll event where local artists to show and sell Perfect for starting your weekend with fresh food and community energy. Full details at santacruzfarmersmarket.org. their works.

APTOS (at Cabrillo College) — 8 AM – Noon, 6500 Soquel Drive APTOS LITTLE LEAGUE UPPER Wines are 30% off, and the featured winery will offer Celebrated coastal market with over 90 vendors selling produce, sustainable seafood, artisan breads, honey, tastings of three varietals for $10 per person. meats, flowers, and hot food. EBT/WIC accepted. Free/year-round weekend oasis for local flavors and crafts. Hosted DIVISION REGISTRATION DEADLINE Details of this and more Sevy’s events at www.sevysbarand 11:59 p.m., Online Registration at aptoslittleleague.org

by MontereyBayFarmers. kitchen.com/events This is the final day to register players for Aptos Little SUNDAYS League’s Spring 2026 season in the upper divisions, LIVE OAK/EASTSIDE — 9 AM – 1 PM, 15th & East Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz Fridays (except First Friday of the Month) including AAA and Majors.

Vibrant seaside Sunday market featuring organic produce, fresh seafood, hot food stands (Mexican, crepes, LA SELVA BEACH LIBRARY BRIDGE GROUP The season includes ongoing field renovations and brunch), pastries, coffee, flowers. Free parking, EBT/SNAP, Market Match, and monthly family-oriented events.

10:30-Noon, La Selva Beach Public Library, 316 Estrella Ave. spring play beginning in mid-February. Registration closes WATSONVILLE FAIRGROUNDS — 9 AM – 4 PM, 2601 E Lake Ave, Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Come for bridge from 10:30 to noon at the La Selva at 11:59 p.m..

Year-round market with wide selection of local produce, meats, seafood, crafts, and prepared foods. EBT/SNAP Beach library.

Visit https://www.aptosll.org for division details, player evaluaaccepted. Parking onsite. Great for combining a market visit with other Fairgrounds activities.

Call La Selva Library to reserve your seat: 831-427-7710. tions, and season updates.

28 / January 2026 / Capitola Soquel Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Tuesday January 13

California, Heartache Tonight, and Desperado, performed 100% live.

Take it to the Limit captures the harmony, energy, and spirit of an authentic Eagles performance.

Tickets range from $59 to $68.

More information and ticket options are available online.

CAPITOLA SOROPTIMIST CLUB MEETING 4 p.m., United Way of Santa Cruz County, 4450 Capitola Road, Suite 106, Capitola Soroptimist International of Capitola-by-the-Sea holds its club meeting, free and open to the public.

Members will learn the 2026 Live Your Dream (LYD) winners and begin planning the March awards ceremony.

The LYD award supports women pursuing undergraduate or technical training who are heads of households.

Visit https://www.best4women.org for more information.

Friday January 30 Saturday January 31 JACKIE GREENE Doors 8 p.m., Show 9 p.m., Moe’s Alley, 1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz Moe’s Alley presents Jackie Greene for two nights straight.

Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door. This is a 21+ event.

More information and tickets are available at moesalley.com or ticketweb.com.

Wednesday January 14 MEET THE AUTHOR: TERRA SUMMERS 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., Porter Memorial Library, 305 Porter St., Aptos Join Terra Summers for the 2026 Meet the Author series as she shares her new book Simply Poetry and Art, featuring paintings paired with haiku and standalone poems.

She will also play a bit on her guitar. Programs are free, open to the public, and coffee is provided by The Ugly Mug. More information: portermemoriallibrary.org.

Saturday January 31

COMEDIANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT: LIVE COMEDY SPECIAL RECORDING Thursday January 15

7:30 – 9 p.m., Woodhouse Blending & Brewing, 119 Madrone St., Santa Cruz Join the Comedians with Disabilities Act for a free live comedy special recording as the long-running troupe launches its 2026 tour and documentary project.

Enjoy performances from multiple acclaimed comedians representing diverse disability perspectives. Admission is free.

More information and registration: Eventbrite or comedianswithdisabilitiesact.com.

ROGUE ROOSTERS 8 p.m., Crow’s Nest, 2218 E. Cliff Dr., Santa Cruz Rogue Roosters bring classic rock, blues, and Motown favorites to the Crow’s Nest for an energetic evening of live music and dancing.

The band delivers familiar hits with a lively, crowdpleasing sound. exciting new territory, the band delivers a lively night of a Saturday show at the Peace United Church of Christ in A $6 cover charge applies.

Santa Cruz and on Sunday at the First Presbyterian Church rhythm-driven music.

More information is available on the Rogue Roosters Facebook A $7 cover charge applies. of Monterey. page.

Guest conductor and Salinas native Alan Truong will lead More information is available at thejointchiefsband.com. the ensemble in an exciting program of music by George Enescu, Jean Francaix, and Ermanno Wolf-Ferrari.

Friday January 23 Friday January 16 Tickets are available at the doors or from www.espressorch.org.

Saturday January 24 MOE’S ALLEY PRESENTS: THE SAM CHASE & THE

SANTA CRUZ BAROQUE FESTIVAL: MUSICAL STORIES OF BRASS AND ORGAN 4 p.m., Calvary Episcopal Church, 532 Center St, Santa Cruz, CA Kicking off the 53rd year of the Santa Cruz Baroque Festival, this fundraiser combines music and storytelling to explore the early Baroque era.

Organist Jörg Reddin joins the Santa Cruz Brass Quintet performing works by Gabrieli, Scheidt, Charpentier, and Bonelli.

Part of the Essentially Baroque season.

For details, visit santacruzbaroque.org.

BENEATH THE WAVES: MEET THE ROBOTICS MAKERS EXPLORING OUR COAST 1–2:30 p.m., Felton Branch Library, 6121 Gushee St., Felton Learn how remotely operated vehicles are designed and used to explore the ocean with Knute Brekke of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute.

The program includes a student-led underwater robotics UNTRADITIONAL WITH SPECIAL GUESTS DIGGIN’ TRAILS (((FOLKYEAH!))) PRESENTS: AJ LEE & BLUE SUMMIT demonstration and a Q&A session.

Thursday January 22 Doors 8 p.m., Show 9 p.m., Moe’s Alley, 1535 Commercial Way, Doors 8 p.m., Show 9 p.m., Moe’s Alley, 1535 Commercial Way, Doors open at 12:30 p.m.

Santa Cruz Santa Cruz JANUARY LUNCHEON WITH NICOLE COBURN For details and registration, visit santacruzpl.libnet.info/events.

San Francisco’s The Sam Chase & The Untraditional blend 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Dr., Aptos Santa Cruz-based AJ Lee & Blue Summit bring awardrock ’n’ roll and folk with a punk rock edge, led by the Join newly appointed Santa Cruz County C.E.O. Nicole Coburn winning energy, technical mastery, and charm to the Tuesday February 3 storytelling voice of Sam Chase. for a community luncheon to hear county updates and network national roots music scene.

SAY SHE SHE WITH SPECIAL GUEST KATZÙ OSO Enjoy boot-stomping music and unforgettable lyrics.

The band combines youthful festival energy with with local business leaders and community members.

Doors 7 p.m., Show 8 p.m., Moe’s Alley, Santa Cruz Special guests Diggin’ Trails open the show. seasoned musical confidence. This ticket covers both Tickets are $35 for members, $40 for nonmembers.

NYC punk-chic, discodelic band Say She She delivers Ages 21+. Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 day of show. nights of performances.

RSVP at 831-600-1467. powerful three-part harmonies and irresistible grooves that Visit https://moesalley.com for more information.

Ages 21+. Tickets: $45 in advance, $50 day of show.

More information: aptoschamber.com. combine music, rebellion, and empowerment.

Visit https://moesalley.com/calendar/ for more information.

Fronted by Nya Gazelle Brown, Sabrina Cunningham, and REDWOOD EXPRESS OUR COMMUNITY READS: BOOK DISCUSSION Piya Malik, the band inspires movement, thought, and strength.

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., Discretion Brewing, 2703 41st Ave, Ste 11 a.m.–1 p.m., The Loft Coffee Shop, 2701 Cabrillo College Tuesday January 27 Ages 21+.

A, Soquel Drive, Aptos FILM: UNDERWATER DREAMS Tickets: $30 in advance, $35 day of show.

Redwood Express, an Americana roots rock band featuring Kick off the 2026 Our Community Reads season by joining 6:30 p.m., Capitola Branch Library, Ow Community Room, 2005 members of The China Cats, Rosebud, and Grandpa’s fellow readers for an in-depth discussion of this year’s Wharf Road, Capitola Thursday February 5 Chili, performs live at Discretion Brewing. selected book and its major themes.

Watch this inspiring documentary about four teenage Enjoy an evening of soulful guitar, vocals, and lively The conversation will be facilitated by Casey Coonerty boys, all sons of undocumented immigrants, who build an FRESH START: EMPOWERING IMMIGRANTS WITH SKILLS rhythms.

Protti, owner of Bookshop Santa Cruz. Sandwiches are underwater robot from spare parts and defeat engineering AND KNOWLEDGE FOR A SUCCESSFUL LIFE IN THE U.S. More information about the band and event is available at https:// provided.

6:30 p.m., Aptos Branch Library’s Betty Leonard Community powerhouse MIT. www.discretionbrewing.com/events.

For details and registration, visit santacruzpl.libnet.info/events.

The film runs 1 hour, 25 minutes. Popcorn will be served. Room, 7695 Soquel Drive, Aptos Hear a panel discussion on the immigration process, legal For details and registration, visit santacruzpl.libnet.info/events.

Saturday January 17 services for immigrants and current challenges facing Friday January 23 ESPRESSIVO CONCERT immigrant communities.

Friday January 30 WATSONVILLE DUBZ BINGO NIGHT Panelists from Community Action Board, Senderos and 4 p.m., Peace United Church of Christ, 900 High St, Santa Cruz THE LITTLE BIG BAND 6–9 p.m., Straw Hat Pizza, 2026 Freedom Blvd., Watsonville Catholic Charities Diocese of Monterey will share insights Santa Cruz’s “small, intense orchestra,” Espressivo, 8 p.m., Crow’s Nest, 2218 E. Cliff Dr., Santa Cruz The Watsonville Dubz 12U travel baseball team hosts and answer audience questions. performs under guest conductor Alan Truong.

Bingo Night, featuring prizes and pizza. Five games are The Little Big Band brings swing-era music to the Crow’s This is a hybrid event.

The program features music by George Enescu, Jean $10.

Nest, delivering big band arrangements and classic tunes For details and registration, visit santacruzpl.libnet.info/events.

Françaix, and Ermanno Wolf-Ferrari.

Proceeds support the team’s travel and tournament perfect for dancing or enjoying live jazz.

Tickets available at the door or at www.espressorch.org. costs as they prepare to compete in Cooperstown, NY in The evening captures the energy and elegance of the Friday February 6 2026. swing era.

Saturday January 17 BEATS ANTIQUE Sponsored by Straw Hat Pizza and Universal Janitorial.

A $7 cover charge applies.

Sunday January 18 Doors 7 p.m., Show 8 p.m., Rio Theatre, Santa Cruz For details, visit santacruzpl.libnet.info/events.

More information is available on the band’s Facebook page.

Beats Antique, a U.S.-based experimental world fusion and ESPRESSIVO CHURCH CONCERTS TAKE IT TO THE LIMIT – THE MUSIC & LEGACY OF THE electronic music group, blends diverse genres with live 4 p.m., Sat: Peace United Church of Christ, 900 High St, Santa THE JOINT CHIEFS EAGLES performances featuring heavy percussion, samples, Tribal Cruz | Sun: First Presbyterian Church, 501 El Dorado St, 8 p.m., Crow’s Nest, 2218 E. Cliff Dr., Santa Cruz Fusion dance, and performance art.

Monterey The Joint Chiefs bring a high-energy mix of funk, jazz, and 7:30 p.m.–10 p.m., Rio Theatre for the Performing Arts, 1205 All ages are welcome.

Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz Espressivo — Santa Cruz’s “small, intense orchestra” classic R&B to the Crow’s Nest dance floor.

Fully standing, general admission. Tickets: $45.95. n — will perform on both sides of the Monterey Bay, first Known for taking familiar grooves and pushing them into Relive all the timeless Eagles hits, including Hotel

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / January 2026 / 29

FEATURED COLUMNIST

What Kids Need Most When Parents Divorce

By Dr. Lori Butterworth, Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist

I

was eight when my parents divorced.

My brothers and I bounced around from house to house; we called it “kid ping-pong.” Each house had different rules, schedules, and levels of tension.

The only constant was my grandmother. I think of her tiny warm house every time I smell cinnamon toast or hear the hum of a sewing machine. I remember her silly jokes and the calm predictability of her voice.

She was my anchor in a storm I didn’t understand. While my parents were unavailable, she gave me what every child needs: a sense of safety, security, and unconditional love.

Now, decades later, as a child and adolescent therapist, I see that same longing for stability in so many of the children I work with as their parents divorce. But, as devastating and disruptive as divorce is, it’s not the divorce itself that harms children most. It’s the ongoing conflict, tension, and inconsistency that can follow.

Research shows that the #1 predictor of how well kids adjust to divorce is how well their parents get along afterward.

When parents cooperate, communicate respectfully, and minimize conflict, kids fare dramatically better emotionally, socially, and even academically.

A large review from the University of Edinburgh found that “high-quality coparenting, marked by mutual support, good communication, and shared decision-making predicts better child adjustment and overall well-being.” Simply put, when parents stay calm, flexible, and respectful with one another, they model resilience and teach their children that love doesn’t end just because marriage does.

Of course, this is much easier said than done. Divorce is painful. It can stir resentment, guilt, fear, and grief. When those emotions spill over into parenting, kids get caught in the crossfire. They may take on the impossible job of peacekeeper, side with one parent to avoid tension, or withdraw altogether to protect themselves.

That’s why therapy after divorce often works best when it’s with the parents, not the child. Parent or co-parenting therapy helps adults manage their own emotions,

learn to communicate without blame, and build a new kind of partnership focused solely on the children’s wellbeing. Research based programs like No Kids in the Middle, are showing promising results in helping parents reduce conflict and keep kids out of loyalty binds.

Even when parents can’t be friends, they can still be allies in parenting. Small gestures, a shared calendar, neutral handoffs, a text about a good report card — send powerful messages to kids that both parents are still in their corner.

And when parents are struggling to communicate, children need other safe, trusted adults who can provide stability

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and perspective. The CDC’s Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) research identifies having at least one trusted adult as one of the strongest protective factors for youth mental health. That adult might be a grandparent, coach, teacher, neighbor, or therapist — someone outside the immediate family who listens, shows up, and stays steady through the ups and downs.

For me, it was my grandmother. What matters most is that they feel seen, safe, and loved by at least one consistent adult in their life.

Divorce is emotionally, physically, and academically shattering for kids. But

divorce doesn’t have to define a child’s story. When parents commit to working together, despite hurt or history, they teach their children that relationships can change without losing love. Separated parents can model resilience, respect, and the ability to grow. And that, more than anything, can help kids not just survive divorce, but emerge from it strong and emotionally secure. n ••• Lori Butterworth, PsyD, MEd, MA is the 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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FEATURED COLUMNIST

SCCAS Featured Pet

Colorful Berries Brighten Wintry Gardens

By Tony Tomeo

prolific, but with more subdued color and stature. Toyon is a related native species that performs well in unrefined landscapes.

English hawthorn produces similar colorful berries, but develops into a small and gnarled deciduous tree.

Unfortunately, none of these colorful berries are notably edible. In fact, some are mildly toxic.

•••

Y

crossword on 25 »

T

Puppy Love

oung Jasper (A327203), estimated to be 10-12 months old, came to us as a stray in the Watsonville area, with fly-bitten ears, a slight limp, and a bit on the thin and untidy side … So he seems to have had a bit of a rough time in his young life.

He has been gentle, quiet, and undemanding here at the shelter, seemingly just happy to have a warm, safe place to sleep, regular meals, and positive, caring interactions with our wonderful staff and volunteers.

He’s a bit nervous about having his paws handled, and when he’s worried about something he can get a little mouthy, which is a common behavior in adolescent dogs.

He can be a bit goofy in play, he loves to play fetch, and so far he’s shown friendly, curious interest in, and has been playful with, other dogs.

Jasper is both treat- and attention-motivated and he LOVES positive reinforcement training. With continued positive guidance and training, and a safe, secure home, Jasper has the potential to be a loyal and fun companion, and he’s sure to appreciate any comforts provided to him!

We will be closed on New Years’ Day, but otherwise, we’re here and we’d love to see you! 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

Year-in-Review © Statepoint Media

I

Bright red attracts hungry overwintering birds. t is no coincidence that so many colorful berries ripen in autumn as migratory birds migrate south for winter.

Such colorful berries are intended for both migratory and overwintering birds.

Rodents and other wildlife are welcome to take what they want as well. Most colorful berries are bright red, to get the attention of birds and wildlife. They are a convenient “grab and go” size, and abundant.

Plants who produce colorful berries are pleased to provide in exchange for the dispersion of their seed. It is an ingenious system. Everyone involved does what they do best. Plants produce their colorful berries to exploit wildlife. Wildlife exploits the berries.

Seed within the berries survives digestion, and gets deposited elsewhere. Most types of berry seed germinate best after digestion.

Colorful berries are popular in home gardens either to attract birds, or because they are delightfully colorful for autumn and winter. Of course, many that should remain colorful attract birds instead. Fortunately, birds are good sports, and often leave colorful berries long enough to blet (age). Then, polite birds consume the berries before they get messy, and ideally take their mess elsewhere.

Various hollies are famous for their colorful berries. However, not many hollies reliably produce many berries here. Because they are dioecious (of separate genders), commonly available female plants are fruitless without rare male pollinators. Fortunately, modern hollies are becoming available in conjunction with pollinators. Otherwise, the best colorful berries are of the Rosaceae family.

Firethorn is the most profuse and most familiar of the colorful berries through autumn and winter. A few species and cultivars of Cotoneaster can be almost as

Firethorn

he most abundant bright red berries of autumn are those of firethorn, **Pyracantha coccinea**. They resemble English hawthorn, cotoneaster and toyon berries, but are shinier and more abundant. Their weight causes their limbs to sag. Most are either rich deep red, or brighter slightly orangy red.

Orange berries are uncommon locally. Cultivars with yellow berries are less vigorous and rare.

Berry production may seem to be more variable than it actually is. Healthy plants typically produce a profusion of berries. They only seem to be more profuse if they ripen late, after migratory birds fly south. Such birds are voracious with early berries. Overwintering birds are less numerous, and consume berries slower. Regardless, few berries last long enough to deteriorate and get messy.

Firethorn is thorny enough to function as an impenetrable hedge. However, it is unpleasant to prune with all those thorns.

Also, pruning without removing the stems that bloom and produce berries takes effort.

Upright cultivars can get higher than downstairs eaves. Some cultivars get only a few feet tall as they sprawl over the ground.

Even without berries, the evergreen foliage is appealing. n ••• Horticulturist Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo.com.

Overwintering birds can not miss firethorn.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Capitola Soquel Times / January 2026 / 31

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