Scotts Valley Times: February 2024 by Times Publishing Group, Inc.

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Steve Walpole, who served as Scotts Valley police chief from 1986 to 2001, died Dec. 21 of bone cancer. He was 75. He was born on July 17, 1948, in Durant, Oklahoma. He had one brother (John) and three sisters (Sherry, Sue, and Rosemary) who all moved to California as children.

In his teenage years, he met his one and only true love, Sandy Walpole, at Soquel High School. Steve married Sandy shortly after graduation and they were together ever since. In 2023 they celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary. ... continues on page 4

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Scotts Valley Faces Builder’s Remedy By Randy Johnson I believe it was Thomas Jefferson who postulated that the government closest to the people governs best. That maxim is being sorely tested each and every year as the edicts and mandates flow wildly from our state government in Sacramento ... Full Story page 5

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Volume 27 No. 2

Table of Contents

Cover Retired Police Chief Steve Walpole Sr.: 1948~2023 Community News 6 Help Eric and Heidi Find a Place to Live 7 Palace Art & Office Supply: 75 Years Strong 10 SLV Water Rates Hikes Up for Vote Feb. 15,: By Jondi Gumz • State Allocates $300,000 for Local Storm Road Repairs 18 Felton Library Launches Marc Shargel Exhibit Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Newsletter • Pages 11-14 11 Sinatra Show Comes to Chaminade Resort & Spa: Saturday, February 10, By Danny Reber • 2023 Scotts Valley Community Awards: LAST CHANCE for Nominations: Deadline Extended to Feb 8 12 Green Hills Event Center: Two Venues, One Location • Laughing Monk Brewing & Gastropub Ribbon Cutting 13 New Member Spotlight: Redwood Pipe & Drain, Inc. • Fringe Salon Announces Bi-Monthly Crafting Class Series Kickoff 14 Alfred Hitchcock Festival • February Ribbon Cuttings

8 9

Letters to the Editor Operation Christmas Child Thanks You • SLV Water Rate Increase Unfair for Conservationists March 5 Vote: Fifth District Candidates Theresa Bond • Tom Decker • Monica Martinez Christopher Bradford Monthly Horoscope • Page 19 – I Was Wondering — What is the Sound of Humanity’s Freedom?, By Risa D’Angeles Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 20, 21

Featured Columnists 5 Scotts Valley Faces Builder’s Remedy, By Randy Johnson, Mayor, City of Scotts Valley 22 Progress on Roads & Water, but FEMA Funds Lagging, By Bruce McPherson, Supervisor, Fifth District 23 Bareroot Season Begins in January, By Tony Tomeo SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 23 – Stellaaaaa!

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COVER STORY publisher

Patrice Edwards

editor

Jondi Gumz

contributing writers

Jondi Gumz, Danny Reber, Risa D’Angeles, Randy Johnson, Bruce McPherson, Tony Tomeo

layout

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graphic artists

Michael Oppenheimer, Ward Austin

photography Michael Oppenheimer

website Michael Oppenheimer, Camisa Composti

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office coordinator distribution

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“Steve Walpole Sr. Obit” from page 1 After graduating high school, Steve began working full-time as a plumber and volunteered as a reserve police officer on the weekends for the newly incorporated City of Scotts Valley. He decided law enforcement was his passion, so he ended his plumbing career and was sworn in as a full-time police officer in 1972. Steve was a well-respected officer who quickly rose through the ranks, and was promoted to chief in 1986, the second man to hold that position. Steve’s guiding hand as police chief helped the city through many difficult times, including the 1989 earthquake, which required emergency assistance throughout the town and the state. Steve received many awards for his work in law enforcement, including letters of commendation from Presidents George H. Bush and President Bill Clinton. Not only did Steve serve the town he loved as a police officer, he served his country in the Army National Guard for 6 years and was a trained tank commander. He was a steadfastly religious man who routinely attended San Agustin Catholic Church in Scotts Valley. Despite his many accomplishments, Steve will be remembered for his personality and who he was. At his core, he was an honest, ethical, outgoing man with an infectious sense of humor and a quick wit. He will be greatly missed by family and friends alike.

Steve Walpole Sr., in green shirt, attends his last SVPD Retiree BBQ in August. A community celebration of Steve’s life He passed on his passion for law enforcement to his son, Steve Walpole Jr., is being planned for locals to share their memwho became Scotts Valley police chief in 2017. ories and reflections. That date has yet to be announced. ••• ••• A funeral mass at San Agustin Catholic Photos courtesy of Scotts Valley Police Church was private. At the Scotts Valley Police page on Facebook, Department Cover Photo: Steve Walpole Sr. with his fellow officers and local residents shared stories K9, Duke., 1973. about Steve.

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 ©2024. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission 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

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Past and present Scotts Valley police chiefs met for breakfast in 2014. From left: Gerald Pittenger, Steve Walpole Sr., Tom Bush, Steve Lind, and John Weiss. • On his last day before retiring in 2001, Chief State Walpole Sr. did one shift of patrol with his son, Steve Walpole Jr. who was employed by the Los Gatos Monte Sereno Police Department. • Counter-clockwise from bottom left: Steve Walpole Sr., Capt. Tom Bush, Lt. Steve Lind and administrative assistant Joann Pursley made up the leadership team from 1986 to 2001. • Steve Walpole Sr. with Chief Gerald Pittenger, Sgt. Tom Bush and Sgt. Steve Smith during the department inspection in 1979.

4 / February 2024 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Scotts Valley Faces Builder’s Remedy By Randy Johnson, Mayor, City of Scotts Valley

believe it was Thomas Jefferson who postulated that the government closest to the people governs best. That maxim is being sorely tested each and every year as the edicts and mandates flow wildly from our state government in Sacramento to over-burdened cities and counties. This centralization is having a chilling effect on the productivity and efficiency of local governments and it is only getting worse. If you had attended Scotts Valley’s last City Council meeting, I think you would have appreciated the dynamic and the flow of the session. First there is public comment time, where in the tradition of Vox Populi, anyone can express their opinion on all things not on the agenda. On this night, an appreciative citizen came to thank our City Manager Mali LaGoe for conducting a Citizens’ Academy over the course of several months, in which the complexities of running a city were shared. That was followed by a somewhat disgruntled citizen who was concerned about a proposed three-story building close to his neighborhood.

... any developer who proposes a project with at least 20% affordable housing can build without any community oversight or input and cities will now be left twisting in the wind as casual observers, while the bulldozers flatten and reign supreme. Finally, the Council approved a nine-unit development on the north end of town. Routine. Productive. Effective. Transparent. People were heard. Action was taken. Citizens left that meeting feeling they had a modicum of control in their community’s affairs. Contrast that with the Legislature’s vast overreach in its attempt to close antihousing loopholes that have battered local communities’ pursuit to build needed, responsible housing. The intentions were good. Affordable housing is in short supply and cities have failed to live up to their prescribed housing obligations. But the remedy imposed by the state was extremely radical, heavy-handed and punitive. Scotts Valley has been tasked with building 1,220 units in the next eight years. Things are even worse for Capitola whose requirement is 1,300+. Some argue that cities are getting what

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Operation Christmas Child Thanks You enerosity throughout Santa Cruz County contributed to a successful shoebox gift collection season at drop-off locations for the Samaritan’s Purse project Operation Christmas Child. Across the U.S., the project collected 10 million shoebox gifts in 2023. Combined with those collected from partnering countries in 2023, the ministry is now sending over 11.3 million shoebox gifts to children worldwide, including many who are suffering from war, poverty, disease and disaster. Through shoeboxes—packed with fun toys, school supplies, and personal care items—Santa Cruz County volunteers brought joy to children in need around the world. Each gift-filled shoebox is a tangible expression of God’s love, and it is often the first gift these children have ever received. Through the continued generosity of donors since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 220 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories. Across California, shoebox packers often shop for deals on shoebox items throughout the year, and many serve at a deeper level by becoming a year-round volunteer. Information about ways area participants can get involved year-round can also be found at samaritanspurse.org/occ or by calling 714-432-7030. Although local drop off locations for

shoebox gifts are closed until Nov. 18 – 25, 2024, anyone can still be a part of this lifechanging project by conveniently packing a shoebox gift online in just a few simple clicks at samaritanspurse.org/buildonline. These simple gifts, packed with love, send a message to children worldwide that they are loved and not forgotten. — Luke Switzer, Samaritan’s Purse ••• SLV Water Rate Increase Unfair for Conservationists n Thursday, Feb. 15, the San Lorenzo Valley Water District Board of Directors will vote to approve water rate increases. The proposal increases rates each year from 2024 through 2028 — a 48% rate hike compounded over 5 years. This is not one price increase; it is five separate increases yearly for the next five years. In effect they are looking into the future and are predicting quite a large annual inflation rate, or are they creating it? To add insult to injury, the rate structure continues to shift the cost to fees over water consumption. Currently the monthly service charge is almost equivalent to the rate of 3 units of water, and it will increase each year. (1 unit =748 gallons) The fire surcharge is also in the current monthly bill, and it is almost equal to the rate of another unit of water.

they deserve. In every community, neighborhood groups have routinely challenged and opposed even responsible housing and the cumulative effect has led to a chronic affordable housing shortage. And some cities have simply thumbed their noses at the state’s polite requests to do their part and build. And so, in its “no more Mr. Nice-guy” mode, the state’s hammer has come down and the mandates are real and enforceable. If a city’s housing element is out of compliance, then it exposes itself to a thing called “builder’s remedy.” That means any developer who proposes a project with at least 20% affordable housing can build without any community oversight or input and cities will now be left twisting in the wind as casual observers, while the bulldozers flatten and reign supreme. This scenario is not hypothetical.

Just this week, a development company contacted our city, using the ‘builder’s remedy” argument that it has a right to develop a multi-level 200+ unit project on a small lot within the city. So the outcome of the State’s housing directive is that a Midwest company, a thousand miles away, has more control over our city’s future than its citizens do. That’s wrong. I would propose a “City’s Remedy” where the state rethinks its “one-size-fits-all” position on how to meet the state’s housing needs. Every community is unique. The integrity of local control must be trusted. The state should honor and embrace that. We should work in a spirit of cooperation and find balanced, workable solutions that set up cities and counties for success. To do otherwise condemns us to a path of confusion, skepticism and distrust that serves no one and compromises our future. We can and should do better. n ••• Randy Johnson is mayor of Scotts Valley. Contact him at rlj12@comcast.net

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ON MARCH 5TH OR BY MAIL VOTE

FIGHTING FOR OUR VALUES IN THE

19TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Help Eric and Heidi Find a Place to Live E

ric and Heidi McFarland, who hosted Michaela, 26, Cole, 18, who just started the Central Coast Prescribed Burn college, and Lucas, 12. Association pile burning workshop in “No contribution is too small,” they say. Boulder Creek last year, lost their home in a “We greatly appreciate any support you can house fire on Oct. 29 and are looking for help offer! “ and a new place to live. If you are interested in helping these This is their second time losing every- friends of the Prescribed Burn Association, thing to a fire; their first house burned to the their Go Fund Me is at: http://tinyurl.com/ ground in the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex ground-McFarland-newhome. fire. If anyone has leads on housing, either In the October fire, everyone got out, long term or temporary, in the San Lorenzo including their dog, but the house and its Valley or nearby, contact Michael Rhoades at contents are a total loss. mrhoades66@gmail.com and he will pass that The McFarlands have lived in Boulder information on to Eric, Heidi and Lucas. n Creek for about 30 years. They do not like to ask for help but they do not see another option. “We have no ability to rebuild either home without significant community involvement in helping us out,” they explain on their GoFundMe.com site, which has a goal of $50,000. The McFarlands raised three kids in Boulder Creek, Heidi and Eric McFarland at the pile burn workshop in Boulder Creek.

“Letters” from page 5

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While the proposal does not recommend the expiration of the surcharge, it does add a brand-new fee. They call it “monthly capital charges.” This fee increases every year as well. By loading up the monthly water bill, which used to be billed every other month, with fees rather than being based primarily on water consumption it has the effect of shifting a heavier burden to those who conserve water. Recently the “Notice of Prop. 218 Public Hearing “was mailed out to all SLV Water District customers. It states that a selfaddressed envelope is included with the protest ballet. This self-addressed envelope is not included, increasing the probability that this ballet will not be mailed in. Any ballet not returned to the water district is counted as a yes vote making it extremely unlikely that the rate increase can be stopped. On the proposal sent out by the water district, it clearly shows how these fees affect those who conserve water. On page 3 of the proposal there is a chart showing the monthly charge including water consumption and all monthly fees proposed for the first year of the increase. In the first year of the increase those resi-

dential customers who conserve water, using only 2 units of water per month, their bill including all fees will be $82.74. If you divide that figure by 2 units it makes the consumer’s cost $41.37 per unit of water. For those residential customers who do not conserve and use a whopping 16 units of water per month, their bill including all fees will be $282.32, if you divide that figure by 16 units, it makes the consumer’s cost $17.64 per unit of water. In the proposed rate increase, the district continues to shift a bigger financial burden to those who conserve water. For those water district customers who use a front-loading washing machine to conserve water, a low flow shower head, a water efficient toilet and even a garden hose timed shut-off valve, you will not be rewarded but punished. There are many ways to structure a rate increase so as not to increase the burden on those who conserve. I encourage all Water District customers to fill out their protest ballet, send it in, email it, or fill one out at the water district office and show up at the public hearing. The hearing: Thursday, Feb. 15, at 6:30 p.m. at San Lorenzo Valley Water District conference room, 12788 Hwy 9, Boulder Creek. n — Vincent Rolf

COMMUNITY NEWS

Palace Art & Office Supply: 75 Years Strong C all Palace Art & Office Supply the phoenix that rose from the ashes. In its 75-year history, Palace has faced floods, earthquakes, a recession, the birth of e-commerce, and a pandemic. Still, it remains one of very few locally owned brick-andmortar only businesses in town. What started as Palace Stationery has, since the Trowbridge Family purchased it in 1949, bounced around multiple Pacific Avenue addresses before expanding beyond the reaches of downtown. With no succession plan as the original owners approached retirement, an exit strategy began to unfold. Once the imminent closing was announced, an outpouring of support came from the community, including a surprise offer for purchase. “We can’t imagine Santa Cruz without Palace! Is it for sale?” Within weeks, Palace had a new lease on life for the next generation ahead. While retaining its entire original staff, the new owners have paved the way for a refreshed shopping experience in the store. “Anybody who has been in here will see the depth of product that we carry,” said Mark Rispaud, Director of Business Development. “What might appear from the outside as old school is part of what really works for Palace. We stay committed to providing excellent customer service and an entirely in-person shopping experience as well as expanding our offerings to include new products.” Case in point: Palace recently broke through the physical wall of its neighboring space to welcome in Moods Clothing Boutique in August 2023. The boutique carries brands such as Free People, Johnny Was and Pendleton, to name a few.

Palace also now has an entire room dedicated to handmade papers and gift cards, some of which are made by local artists. This was in response to a resurgence in demand for the products shortly after the pandemic. And for those who haven’t looked recently, Palace has a huge selection of STEAMfocused art and craft supplies, toys, games, puzzles, and educational materials for kids. But still, at its core, Palace is a fine art supply store. The staff knows the store’s art products and tools through and through, having worked previously with them. Oftentimes, training in the products is offered to the staff by its manufacturers and to customers through free product demos in the store. Palace also does good by sharing its business vitality with the community. They have a regular rotation of featured local artists through their Art on the Wall program as well as offer local artist demos and classes. Indeed, it’s not all about business for Palace. The store has long supported the local art community represented by the Capitola Arts and Cultural Commission, Arts Council Santa Cruz County, Open Studios, Capitola Plein Air festival, and other local arts education initiatives. So, call Palace a victor as it successfully fulfills its mission to provide nothing but the best in art, school, and office supplies and services to the community. n ••• Come help celebrate Palace Art & Office Supply’s 75th year in Santa Cruz County at its store at 1501 41st Ave., Capitola on Feb. 24 and 25 with free events featuring more than 20 local artists and 20 top manufacturers. Visit www.palaceartsupply.com/anniversary for complete event

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2024 / 7

MARCH 5 VOTE: FIFTH DISTRICT CANDIDATES

Theresa Bond

Tom Decker

Summit

Age: 62 Occupation: High tech; school district trustee since 2010

of funds can be improved. And annually I hope the board will review what was disbursed and What are the if it followed set top issues for the priority so to 5th district? have a clear view ighest level Theresa Bond and make course that we energize everyone to vote corrections if needed on our in 2024. Identify what our future decisions. The Board is a team, we ‘Common Goods’ are for the must work together and it county then set priorities. Listen and act on policy helps greatly to have right in to support this stage of front of you at every meeting disaster recovery and put the ‘Critical for All’ chart. Measure D: Santa long-term plans in place for climate resilience (This is Cruz County voters passed Measure D back in 2016, ‘not business as usual’). Equitable access to a one-half cent sales tax basic life necessities: Water, that funds transportation electricity, communications, projects for a 30-year transportation. Community period. Measure D funding quality of life ‘common is allocated by formula to goods:’ Childcare, living various Countywide transwage, inclusive housing, portation needs including healthcare equity and repro- State highways, rail trail, transit, active transporductive freedom. tation, and 30% for local What thoughts do you have on boosting affordable road repair distributed by formula among the County housing, finding real and local Cities. Resurfacing solutions for homelessness of smaller neighborhood and the daily traffic jams and local access roads is on Highway 1? ighway 17 is a lifeline to the current priority for our county, a priority use of the County’s share No. 1. Working with my of Measure D funds. The fellow supervisors, I hope current Board approved that we can agree for all Measure D 5-Year Plan and future decisions we create a information on current road simple chart of priorities to resurfacing projects. Well, remind us that 1’s are for all all of this is just fine when and fund as ‘Critical to all’ things are normal but things followed by 2’s etc. you get are not normal, this is NOT business as usual. the idea. Transparency to our “Theresa Bond” page 15 community on disbursement

8 / February 2024 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Ben Lomond

Age: 72 Occupation: Regional manager BAM Homes ADU

Rather than drag the work out for months, I would allow the private sector contractors What are the to bid on the work top issues for the and award the 5th district? job to contractors based upon price, n my opinion Tom Decker experience and the top 4 issues time of completion. of the 5th District are: I would require that the 1st — The county’s failure to allow CZU Fire work be done at night so not victims to rebuild their to impact the heavy usage during the day on these roads. homes. Can you talk about your 2nd — Repair of storm housing situation? Homedamaged infrastructure owner or renter? How does and our major roads. that help you relate to 5th 3rd — Increase fire and District constituents? disaster preparedness for future emergencies. e’ve owned our home in 4th — Measure K Ben Lomond for many It costs me almost years. The CZU Fire came $100,000 more to place one within a half a mile of our of our manufactured homes home. It was a great blessing in Santa Cruz County than that our home was spared. for some homes in other Our youngest son along California counties. 100% with friends from the comof this extra cost is due to munity and our church lost fees, additional charges and their homes in the fire. other reports required by This is the reason we our county. have chosen to rebuilding Reducing those costs homes in the 5th District. dramatically would be Can you describe your a good start in making family situation? Married/ housing more affordable in single? Children/pets? the 5th District. I’ve been married many What thoughts do you have years to the finest woman on boosting affordable I’ve ever known. We have housing, finding real six children and nineteen solutions for homelessness grandchildren. and the daily traffic Your favorite spot in the jams on Highway 1? 5th district? You spend your free time doing what? he daily traffic jams along Highway 9 are n my free time my wife caused county and Caltrans and enjoy hiking the many road repair work being trails in Henry Cowell Park. done in several places. How long have you lived in Santa Cruz County? What brought you here? e decided to make our second home in Ben Lomond our primary residence almost twenty years ago because of the mountains, the redwood forests and the ocean and the people. What prompted you to run? decided to run after I realized that the County planning, building and environmental health department appears to be against allowing people to rebuild the homes that they lost in the CZU Fire.

“Tom Decker” page 16

Monica Martinez Felton

Age: 41 Occupation: Nonprofit CEO

state relief dollars, and I will be an active participant in that process. What are the The county top issues for the needs to provide 5th district? SLVWD with special assistance n the 5th District, in developing disaster recovery Monica Martinez collaborative is arguably the most important issue. The arrangements with Santa Cruz Santa Cruz Mountains have and Scotts Valley water districts been hit hard over the last and assisting in developing three years between the additional revenue streams. pandemic, CZU Lightning Affordable housing is Complex Fire, and the 2022- incredibly important so our 2023 winter storms. 911 homes community is representative were lost in the fire, and less of all people, not just those than 10% have been rebuilt, who can afford to live here. In which is unacceptable. the 5th District, our housing Streamlining the stock has been impacted by rebuilding process is a priority recent disasters, so we need of mine, and I will take actions to focus on preserving our to address this, including existing housing stock by implementing third-party ensuring damaged homes plan checks and ensuring there can be repaired or rebuilt as is no waitlist for submitting quickly as possible. permits. I will champion creWe also need to invest ating a coordinated approach in a sustainable housing ecoto disaster response and part- system that prioritizes housing nering with public and private affordability and workforce agencies to ensure residents and transit-oriented housing. have the resources they need It’s critical to balance the when disaster strikes. rights and responsibilities of Infrastructure is another both landlords and tenants, very important issue, as much ensuring rental housing of it is aging. We need to invest markets are fair, stable, and in projects that will have supportive of the well-being a lasting impact to ensure of all parties involved, while residents have reliable roads, also ensuring we can increase water, and connectivity. the rate of building new infill, I want to ensure that multi-family housing. no part of the county is left Social Justice: I have behind, including the 5th experienced firsthand what it District. Expanding reliable feels like to be discriminated broadband and cellular access against, and to not have a voice; for residents and small busi- because of this, I have dedinesses is a priority in our cated my career to speaking rural community, as well as up for and acting on behalf of ensuring it is available during others who do not have a voice, emergencies. We need to coor- and I will continue to do so as dinate with public and private a member of the Santa Cruz partners to expand safe routes County Board of Supervisors. to schools, pedestrian access, Representation is incredibly and sustainable, affordable important to me — it’s a pillar transit options. of my campaign — and I It’s a priority of mine know diverse representation to ensure our residents have in leadership and government access to clean, reliable water, positions can lead to more and it’s unacceptable some are equitable policies and decistruggling with this, like cus- sions. I will champion diversity tomers of the Big Basin Water and inclusion initiatives to Co. As County Supervisor, I ensure county government is will help facilitate a solution, an accurate representation of such as helping Big Basin the population. Water become a public entity “Monica Martinez” page 16 so it can leverage federal and

MARCH 5 VOTE: FIFTH DISTRICT

Christopher Bradford

“Dependable Service, Affordable Quality”

Boulder Creek

Age: 44 Occupation: IT administrator, owns Dream Home Images, drone pilot

San LorenzoValley High School. Our twins Coco and Kieran are 10 years old and attend Boulder Creek Elementary. What are the top issues Our three dogs are Felix, Jack for the 5th district? and Chula. Your favorite spot he district faces a comprein the 5th district? hensive list of challenges. In connecting with people ell, that would definitely be Christopher Bradford across the district most folks my home in Boulder Creek. are concerned about infrastructure, fire Our property is beautiful, and in the morning and disaster preparedness, fire recovery, times it can look like a movie set. transparency of the government, housing We have purple pink skies, roiling affordability and cost of living. clouds, and fog banks peering through our What thoughts do you have on tall redwoods. boosting affordable housing, finding You spend your free time doing what? real solutions for homelessness and the am a first-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu daily traffic jams on Highway 1? Jitsu, so training is a priority in my free e need to be extremely aggressive in time beyond spending time with my family, our approach to housing, as 20 years of cooking and studying. How long have you lived in Santa Cruz no-build culture in the County have left us County? What brought you here? with far less housing than we need to support our population. have been here for eight years. It was Traffic jams and housing are intrinsimeeting my wife and us blending our cally interlinked, when people can’t afford to homes that brought me. live where they work, they have to commute What prompted you to run? from more affordable places. We experienced fter losing my home to the fire, I watched this every day on Highway 1. Because our as the government worked against those towns are so expensive to live in, including who lost everything. Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, etc, people have to My family had to fight so hard to drive in from far away where they can afford rebuild our home, and we are one of the to live to work. lucky few. Our district needs a supervisor If we start to solve the housing problem, that is engaged and deeply connected to this we start to solve a lot of our traffic issues. community if we are going to get the repreCan you talk about your housing situation? sentation that we deserve. Homeowner or renter? How does that help I didn’t see that anyone was stepping up you relate to 5th District constituents? and I decided to throw my hat into the ring. Will you push back against the state am a homeowner and CZU Fire survivor. demands for more housing, as the state We finally finished our rebuild and moved auditor says those numbers were based on back home right before Thanksgiving. My family of seven was homeless for unsupported assumptions? See https://www. auditor.ca.gov/pdfs/reports/2021-125.pdf two-and-a-half months, found a rental but then it was put on the market and we will not, because I’m not sure even they are couldn’t find anything else because the doing enough. rental market was so horrible we were Well, I wouldn’t push back on the forced to either leave the area or live in yurts number of houses that need to be built, I while we rebuilt. will push back on the ideas that there’s a We ended up living in tents for 2.5 one-size-fits-all solution to housing in our years. I have lived every single living county. situation you can imagine and have a We have to find the right kind of personal understanding of what it means housing for the neighborhoods involved, to be a homeowner, to be unhoused, have and make sure communities are allowed housing insecurity and living in abnormal to craft a character of their environment living conditions. while also supporting the needs their Our area is filled with both homeowners neighbors have for safe and affordable and renters, and we need to have a supervisor housing. who respects and understands the challenges People in this district feel we are of everyone. running out of room for new residents. Can you describe your family situation? Not enough water, not enough Married/single? Children/pets? electricity — PG&E brownouts — am very happily married to my wife and potholes instead of well-maintained roads. What do you say? Antonia with six children and three dogs. We are a blended family. Our oldest son Kalo e aren’t running out of room for people, is 20 and away at the Navy. we’re suffering from the effects of poor We have three 16-year-olds at home infrastructure and lack of investment. (yes three) our son Diego, our daughter “Christopher Bradford” page 17 Sophia and our niece Graciela. They are at

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COMMUNITY NEWS

SLV Water Rates Hikes Up for Vote Feb. 15 By Jondi Gumz

he San Lorenzo Valley Water District proposes to increase water rates over the next five years, to fund replacing outdated infrastructure, make repairs necessitated by the 2020 CZU lightning fire and the 2022-23 storm and cover the costs of inflation and state mandates. Under Proposition 218, property owners have “a right to vote” on taxes. Property owners can protest increasing fees by filing a protest ballot, which was mailed to water account holders. If a majority — 50% plus one — of parcel owners protest, the rate increases cannot be adopted. Protest ballots must be received by Feb. 15, which is the day of the public hearing at which the five-year series of rate hikes is scheduled for approval. The San Lorenzo Valley Water District board meets at 6:30 p.m. at their conference room, 12788 Highway 9, Boulder Creek. If approved, the new rates could take effect in March. The single-family residential charge per unit, currently $12.66 a month, would dip to $8.69, then rise to $11.72 a month. The monthly service charges for a ¾

The 120,000-gallon Blue Ridge water tank in Boulder Creek, part of the San Lorenzo Valley Water District system, replaced an undersized redwood tank.The $887,745 steel tank project was complete in October. water line, standard for residences, would increase from $35 to $65. A new fee is proposed for capital projects, starting at $7.65 a month and rising to $10.33 a month. The district has undertaken a $13 million

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investment in new pipelines and tanks to replace old infrastructure, some damaged in the CZU Fire. For someone using 2 units of water (a unit is 748 gallons) which is possible in winter when gardens do not need to be watered, the

charge would increase by $70 a month to $83 a month, according to the district. For someone using 6 units of water, which the district says is typical, the increase would be from $121a month to $124 a month. Gardens may require more than 6 units in the summer. A large user using 16 units would see an increase from $248 a month to $282 a month, according to the district. The proposed rates are based on a study by consulting Raftelis, which evaluated operating and capital costs and revenue stability. Since August 2021, the district has collected a surcharge of $9.87 a month from residential customers to go toward an estimated $5 million in expenses from the CZU fire not covered by FEMA disaster aid. Those damages totaled about $20 million. That 5-year surcharge expires in 2026. The district says 85% of revenues come from its ratepayers. The district has 7,500 connections — down from 7,900 before the CZU fire — in Boulder Creek, Brookdale, Ben Lomond, Felton, Zayante, and Quail Hollow in the San Lorenzo Valley and Whispering Pines and Manana Woods in Scotts Valley. n

State Allocates $300,000 for Local Storm Road Repairs

n Jan. 29, the California Transportation Commission allocated nearly $1.2 billion for investments for urban and rural projects for transportation infrastructure. These projects include: • $300,000 in emergency funding to continue work to clear fallen trees, stabilize soils, continue roadway repairs, and install erosion control at locations on Highways 9, 17, 35 and 236 in Santa Cruz County. This damage occurred during winter storms in late 2022/early 2023. • $300,000 in emergency funding to continue repairs on Highway 1 near Ragged Point north of San Carpoforo Creek in San Luis Obispo County. This funding is to complete work on a drainage system to direct the flow of water from a failed slope, remove the slide material and install a drapery mesh. The latest allocations include nearly $428 million from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 and $168 million via Senate Bill 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. The CTC included $245 million for trash capture screens in rivers to prevent litter flow, shoreline embankment restoration, improvements to bus, bicycle, and pedestrian infrastructure, railroad overcrossings, and better alignment with the Americans with

The latest allocations include nearly $428 million from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 and $168 million via Senate Bill 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. Disabilities Act throughout the state highway system. “California is continuing to upgrade our transportation infrastructure,” Caltrans Director Tony Tavares said. IIJA, known as the “Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” is a once-in-a-generation investment in energy, water, broadband and transportation systems. Since 2021, California has received nearly $33 billion in IIJA funds, including $24 billion for transportation projects. SB 1 provides $5 billion in transportation funding each year that is shared between state and local agencies. Road projects progress through construction phases more quickly based on the availability of SB 1 funds, including those partially funded by SB 1. n For information, visit RebuildingCA.ca.gov.

Sinatra Show Comes to Chaminade Resort & Spa Saturday, February 10 By Danny Reber

usic can be an amazing thing. It can take you places. It can lift you up when you are feeling down and provide inspiration when you least expect it. On occasion the right music can nourish your very soul. On this note, the music of Frank Sinatra comes to mind. I will admit I was not always a fan, but that was only because I did not always “get it.” I remember a particular day years ago at a San Francisco Giants game. The previous year had been a rough one full of tragedy and stress and I was there to enjoy a ball game and forget about my woes. It was a beautiful day. The fog had cleared, and the sun shined warmly across the bay. I was enjoying a beer and just taking a walk around the stadium between innings, soaking in the ambiance. Suddenly, I felt a gentle breeze upon my face and as if on cue, they began to play “Summer Wind” by Frank Sinatra. It was at that exact moment that I “got it”. For the first time in my life, I finally understood the music of Frank Sinatra.

For me it was about taking a moment to enjoy the “now”, about slowing down to “stop and smell the roses”. Some might say Frank Sinatra’s music is from a bygone era. Yet, even today, his music lives on with fans of all ages and walks of life. Have

you ever wished you could step back in time and be a part of that era? Well, now you can, thanks to local Scotts Valley residents, Chamber members, and producers of The Sinatra Show, Kallen and Josephine Hamrah of Golden Sight Productions.

••• Santa Cruz … where can you go to dress up and step out and experience a delectable dinner with an evening of dancing and romance. Engage a high octane show in a stunning setting with panoramic views of Monterey Bay. The Chaminade Resort & Spa and Golden Sight Productions are presenting the 3rd annual Sinatra Dinner. Dance. Show. in the Santa Cruz Ballroom. The night begins with a no host cocktail reception followed by an Italian themed dinner buffet produced by worldclass Chef Avram and staff. Finally, dance the night away with your cherished loved one to the signature songs of Sinatra. Featuring Matt Hall, sensational vocalist and entertainer, with the Dynamic Band Essence. No Host Cocktail Reception 6:30 p.m.; Dinner at 7 p.m., Show at 8 p.m. R.S.V.P. ONLINE: https://www. chaminade.com/santa-cruz-restaurants/ sinatra-show TICKET PRICE: $150.00

Deadline Extended to Feb 8

2023 Scotts Valley Community Awards: LAST CHANCE for Nominations

he Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce seeks your assistance in recognizing the people and businesses that make our community such a special place. Please send us your 2023 nominations for outstanding businesses and individuals for the following categories: • Alvin Scarborough Memorial MAN OF THE YEAR • Annette Marcum Memorial WOMAN OF THE YEAR • YOUTH OF THE YEAR

be a current Scotts Valley Chamber • EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR member. • BUSINESS OF THE YEAR • An individual may live or work outside • ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR the city limits, but their contribution • Claire Hodgin Memorial BEAUTIFICATION must be within Scotts Valley. PROJECT OF SCOTTS VALLEY • Youth of the year nominee must be of ••• High School age. Criteria for nomination: ••• • Each nominee must have made a Nominating is quick and easy! valuable contribution to Scotts Valley. Go to ScottsValleyChamber.com • It may be in the previous year or over a and help us honor the leaders of our period of time which you specify. • A business of the year nominee must community.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Call the Chamber Today or Visit www.scottsvalleychamber.com

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2024 / 11

Scotts Valley Chamber News

Green Hills Event Center: Two Venues, One Location T he gorgeous Redwood Grove can host up to 300 guests and features an amphitheater set with redwood trees and ferns. Hike up the romantic woodland trails behind the space for beautiful wedding photos. The space is equipped with outdoor lighting to continue your party into the night! Your rental includes close-by indoor access to a bridal changing room, a full kitchen for your caterer, and restrooms for your guests. The banquet room has space for a crowd. The newly updated Banquet Room features floor-toceiling windows to let in natural light, a bar area, and a separate building entrance.

It can accommodate up to 500 guests. You choose your wedding planner, caterer and music. We provide the venue. Both spaces are available for rent from 10 am to 10 pm. Packages begin at $2500. Hosting your event at 1500 Green Hills is affordable and easy to customize. While they’re happy to recommend vendors they love, you are welcome to bring in whichever caterer, decorator, or event planner you wish! They provide the space — you provide the vision. 1500 Green Hills Road is just 5 minutes from downtown Scotts Valley and has ample parking. ••• For more information, visit https://www.1500greenhillsroad. com/events-venuecontact ••• Contact Bob Slawinski at 831-251-5013, bobslawinski@gmail. com

Laughing Monk Brewing & Gastropub Ribbon Cutting

Thursday, Feb. 15 • 5:30-7 p.m.

he community is invited to join us for the special occasion as we celebrate the merger of Faultline Brewing with Laughing Monk Brewing and Gastropub at the Hangar in Scotts Valley. Laughing Monk Brewing and Gastropub is very excited to be a part of a new brewery and dining experience

in Scotts Valley that will bring the best food, beer, and cocktails. Laughing Monk has 20 beers on tap and is covered wall to wall with TV’s so that you can score big with flavor and touchdowns. Faultline Brewing Company, a restaurant and brewery with locations in Sunnyvale and Scotts Valley, and Laughing Monk Brewing, a Bay Area craft brewery, have joined forces under the Laughing Monk Brewing and Gastropub banner. Since Nov. 27, the new Laughing Monk Brewing and Gastropub has started bringing a fresh brewery and dining experience to the Bay Area and Santa Cruz County. With restaurant locations in Sunnyvale and Scotts Valley and a taproom in San Francisco’s Bayview neighborhood, Laughing Monk Brewing and Gastropub offers

uniquely delicious beers, modern comfort food, and handcrafted cocktails. At the Scotts Valley and Sunnyvale locations, diners can expect a full menu of modern comfort food including favorites like the Roasted Portobello Sandwich, the Bacon Turkey Sando, and the Nashville Chicken Sandwich, in addition to new options to try such as an Ahi Poke Tower, and a Prime Rib Dip. While the Faultline name has been retired, long-time Faultline beer fans will be pleased to know that the Kolsch, Redwood Ale, Hefe Weizen and Black Dragon Stout will still be available in Sunnyvale and Scotts Valley. Laughing Monk beer can be found in over 500 locations (grocery stores, supermarkets, bottle shops, markets, liquor stores and restaurants) across 9 counties: Alameda,

Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and Sonoma. If you’d like to try any of the Laughing Monk beers, you can pick them up at any Whole Foods and New Leaf Markets in the Bay Area or, at Kaiser Permanente Center through their new partnership with the Santa Cruz Warriors.”

Celebrating 43 Years of Managing & Selling Homes throughout Santa Cruz County — 1981 – 2024 $4200/mo 3BR/2BA 2-story Forest Lakes Home on Redwood Rd in Felton. Loft. Deck. W/D. Wood flooring; no carpet. Pet friendly. ....................................................................................................................................AVAIL NOW $4200/mo 3BR/2BA Home on 11000 block of Hwy 9 in Brookdale. Loft. Office. Hardwood floors. Woodstove. HVAC. W/D. Fenced yard. Hot tub.........................................................................................................................AVAIL NOW $3200/mo 2BR/2BA Home on 9000 block of Glen Arbor in Ben Lomond. Breakfast nook. Lg bedrms. Laundry rm. Fenced yard. Garage. Pet friendly. ...........................................................................................................................AVAIL NOW $3150/mo 3BR/2BA Modern Condo at the Boulder Creek Country Club. Located on E. Hilton Dr. in Boulder Creek. Tenancy includes 1-car garage. W/D. FP. No pets. ..........................................................................................AVAIL NOW $3050/mo 3BR/1BA Updated Home on Lincoln Way in Felton near Henry Cowell. Lg sunny yard. 1-car garage. ...............................................................................................................................................................AVAIL NOW $2900/mo 2BR/2BA Apartment in North Scotts Valley at the top of El Camino. Completely updated. No pets. ...............................................................................................................................................................AVAIL NOW $2100/mo Stand Alone Studio Cottage on 700 Block of Felton-Empire Road in Felton. No laundry on site. No pets. ...............................................................................................................................................................AVAIL NOW

12 / February 2024 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

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New Member Spotlight

Scotts Valley Chamber News

Redwood Pipe & Drain, Inc.

ooted in 25 years of extensive experience and a deep passion for plumbing engineering, Redwood Pipe & Drain provides comprehensive plumbing solutions tailored to homeowners’ unique needs. They are specialists in whole house re-piping of water lines and drain lines, seamlessly integrating their services into your daily life to minimize disruption. They strive to ensure water is running by the end of each workday, while ensuring the highest standards of workmanship and efficiency. Their scope of services extends beyond

re-piping, offering full-scale bathroom remodels, renovations, and whole home construction plumbing. Backed by their unwavering dedication to quality workmanship, they transform spaces with a combination of creativity, precision, and functionality. Full Services Include: Water Heaters including storage and tankless on-demands, Pipe Installation including water & drains, New Construction Plumbing, Sewer Laterals including trenchless with camera inspections and Whole House Organic Salt free Water Softeners. Owner Michael Miranda has been in the construction industry for 25 years. Early on he discovered a passion for the plumbing and engineering side of construction. He was always fascinated by the science behind plumbing and the multitude of ways that different people could approach a project but, in the end, have the same results,

lending itself to a creative mind. He took four years of night school in his early 20s to better help him understand the intricacies and engineering of plumbing installation. For the next decade and a half, he studied all facets of the plumbing field from, building 6–7-bathroom mansions, 3 story 24-unit apartment buildings, quadruplexes, duplexes, condos, restaurants, coal fired to gas converted boilers, on demand heaters, single family homes, radiant heat. You name it, He’s done it. In all this time he’s been able to be a part of businesses being

built and grown in time. When he finally found his niche, he went for it. ••• Redwood Pipe and Drain is located at 3 Camp Evers Lane in Scotts Valley. For more information, you can contact them (831) 706-5620 or go to redwoodpipeanddrain.com.

Fringe Salon Announces Bi-Monthly Crafting Class Series Kickoff

diverse background in art education ringe Salon, a beloved hub for and jewelry making. With a Jewelry creativity and self-expression, Manufacturing Arts degree from proudly introduces the launch GIA and a Bachelor’s of Art from of its crafting class series. The first San Jose State, Toma brings a wealth event in this series, a Hoop Earring of knowledge and expertise to this Workshop, is set to take place on hands-on workshop. February 10th at 6:30pm, located at Participants will delve into the Fringe Salon, 4652 Scotts Valley Dr. art of creating hoop earrings using Crafting enthusiasts and Breeta Toma soft copper, exploring various forms, beginners alike are invited to join Breeta Toma, a seasoned artisan with a textures, and embellishments such as beads for

that added sparkle. Toma will guide Salon was created as a place where First Event attendees in techniques to patina the guests from every walk of life could Hoop Earring find acceptance and happiness. When copper for dramatic effect or polish it to showcase a hammered texture. Carly Vollers took over in 2023, she Workshop The class fee of $65 includes ample continued this tradition, ensuring the with Breeta Toma materials to craft three distinct hoop salon remained a female centric space dangles, complete with three sets of hypoaller- where guests feel free to express themselves. Carly genic niobium ear wires. is dedicated to preserving her mother’s legacy, “We are excited to kick off our crafting maintaining an environment where creativity is class series with Breeta Toma leading a encouraged, and guests feel confident exploring Hoop Earring Workshop,” says Carly their unique styles and individuality. Vollers, owner of Fringe Salon. “This workshop promises an evening of creativity and camaraderie, embodying our commitment to fostering self-expression and connection within our community.” Limited spots are available for this exclusive workshop. Those interested are encouraged to secure their place by going to fringesalonsv.com and buy a ticket online. Don’t miss this opportunity to indulge in a night of creativity and connect with fellow crafters! ••• Established by Heidi Vollers in 2008, Fringe

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2024 / 13

Scotts Valley Chamber News

Alfred Hitchcock Festival

eldom do we have the opportunity to participate in a close-by event that draws an audience from other countries. You may not know it, but March 12 is National Alfred Hitchcock Day. Yes, this famous local citizen has his own “National Day!” Last year a sold-out audience enjoyed an everything Hitchcock presentation for the first time at the New Scotts Valley Cultural & Performing Arts Center.

March 8–10

This annual Festival will take place again this year on Friday through Sunday, March 8-10. Three of the films that made Hitchcock famous will be shown. Cinema experts will discuss these films with attendees. Several authors will present material from their books about Hitchcock, his directorial techniques, and his war with the censors. The event will include refreshments from Armitage Wines located on Hitchcock’s former Scotts Valley estate. This year the Festival has added a fashion show presenting clothing designs from Hitch’s movies. In addition to the opportunity to discuss all things Hitchcock one on one with the

authors and Cinema professionals, his 30-year life in Santa Cruz County will be discussed by his granddaughter Tere Carrubba and local historian, Jay Topping. In short, the Festival weekend provides an opportunity for an unprecedented educational experience focused on one of the most famous movie directors of all time. Tickets will be available online at hitch cockfestival.com, as well as further details about the event, the various presenters, and an archive. This is an experience not to be missed! Advertisers or Sponsors can contact Victor Alejandro at victor.alejandro.usa@gmail.com or (408) 410-1566.

February Ribbon Cuttings

Valley Women’s Network celebrates one-year anniversary.

Photo Credit: Kevin Anderson

Congratulations to Brooke’s Resale Boutique on their official grand opening.

Advertise in the Scotts Valley Chamber Newsletter

14 / February 2024 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

CALL FOR SPECIAL RATES 831.688.7549

Photo Credit: Jay Toping

Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce 360 King’s Village Road Scotts Valley, CA 95066

“Theresa Bond” from page 8 We are reacting to multiple severe disasters in which many residents are unsafe living and driving on our roads. This is why I am in favor of tax measures that are specific to our immediate needs. How have other like-traffic issues been improved, are we engaging with other cities with similar jams that tried and failed then landed on a solution? nclusive” housing includes everyone, ‘affordable’ housing is a targeted population. To build our community for the next generations it requires we look at all populations. In addition, ‘affordable’ housing is a tax accessor category and carries requirements that may not fit our unique district. Congressman Panetta is working on a tax credit for middle-income populations which would support our essential workers: https:// panetta.house.gov/media/press-releases/ panetta-carey-wyden-sullivan-introducelegislation-improve-housing My daily work as the chair of the Santa Clara County School Boards Association Legislative Action committee https://legacy. sccoe.org/sccsba/ with our legislators is to support passage of important laws at all levels of government. I am NOT ‘read in’ (Closed session) to real solutions for housing which our current board is considering and if I said I was an expert on housing in our county that would be untrue. I can say that I have a multi-county perspective and visit homeless shelters to see how students live. One school is the Mountain View Whisman school district estimates 20% of their students are homeless and we all know those estimates are way off, low. Homeless families are scared that their children will be taken away by CPS and do not report therefore miss out on county wrap-around services. I am visiting an awesome program in Morgan Hill next week called, ‘CARE’ with 12 specialists supporting 800 students to provide immediate assistance to students experiencing homelessness; it includes county resource navigation to housing, food, healthcare, clothing, transportation with statewide partners. My multi-county experience allows me to bring new programs into our county. Can you talk about your housing situation? Homeowner or renter? How does that help you relate to 5th District constituents? ure. Nineteen years living on the Summit in a single-family home located on a private single lane dead-end road. I own more of the property than the bank does, yes, I have a mortgage. And like so many others after never having a claim with my homeowner’s insurer have and am navigating the nightmare of homeowners’ insurance. My costs have more than tripled, I now have 2 policies instead of one, and like my neighbors are hopeful Commissioner Lara will be successful making positive change. I have been completely

unsuccessful in getting my Wildfire Risk Score. Our family invested also in income property and own a condo in Rio Del Mar, Aptos. I have been inviting reporters there for interviews to highlight climate change. You cannot miss it when it looks you in the face. It has been uninhabitable for over 6 months awaiting repairs from last year’s atmospheric storms. Having home ownership in 2 districts both in disaster recovery, I live property maintenance. Yes I can help constituents understand details on many issues for instance weep holes/screens: Check your sliding doors, windows, and where your exterior walls meet the pavement to make sure they are free of debris and water can escape. Can you describe your family situation? Married/single? Children/pets? arried, mother of 2 amazing itinerant young adults, 3 country dogs, our 3rd generation since buying in 2004. Your favorite spot in the 5th district? You spend your free time doing what? tand-up paddle over the kelp bed in Capitola. The little time that I have off I spend with my family, dogs and friends. As a mountain mom, free time means cooking (we are a gluten-free/nut-free home due to celiac disease and allergies) or hiking together. How long have you lived in Santa Cruz County? What brought you here? Since 2004 I live in unincorporated county with school boundaries in Santa Clara County. And what brought me here was schools. What prompted you to run? can be more effective to help my community during this stage of disaster recovery as a County supervisor. It is the next level up of government official after serving in lower office since 2010. Daily as a trustee on the board of education, I work with government policy, process, and procedures serving our communities. High school finance is California government, our current budget of $73 million with close to 400 staff supports 3,000 students who live in Santa Cruz and Santa Clara counties. I come to the board of supervisors with training in our government. A new supervisor’s learning curve is steep some might say by their 3rd year they are productive if they had no prior government experience. I also bring vast experience from private industry having started out in high tech. Will you push back against the state demands for more housing, as the state auditor says those numbers were based on unsupported assumptions? See https://www. auditor.ca.gov/pdfs/reports/2021-125.pdf f my own research finds fact to push back, then Yes. As an official currently serving I know games of publishing misinformation, text of bills that often drastically change overtime and to check and recheck and even call to talk to critically involved parties before I offer an opinion.

M S

People in this district feel we are running out of room for new residents. Not enough water, not enough electricity — PG&E brownouts — and potholes instead of wellmaintained roads. What do you say? es I’m worried. I want to see strategic long-term plans, with metrics, and monitors of metrics, and bi-annual updates so that we are informed to make decisions. In the first 10 months of 2023, Santa Cruz County Coroner Stephany Fiore tallied 115 accidental fatal drug overdoses. County health officials want to be more proactive. What more could be done? ampaign for education on addiction of these new drugs. I can share many stories with you. Bottom line: Drug dealers are in this for its addictive properties. It is not expensive; it is a revenue stream they now depend on. The stigma of Fentanyl and other new drugs is blocking the true picture of how especially the very young middle schoolers are being preyed upon. I work with substance abuse leadership and in 2021 do you want to know what was the obstacle to educating communities? Education policy, the law. It was not allowed by law that schools administer Narcan or even teach staff or students. I am very proud of my work to bring a new policy to my school board for adoption a full year before our state laws changed. To do that, I worked with District Attorney Rosen’s office, he put out a

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community ALERT when we saw the number of overdoses skyrocket and he prosecutes now with no mercy. I was invited and attended the press conference — https://sd15.senate.ca.gov/ news/senator-cortese-joins-familymelanie-ramos-celebrating-melanies-lawstop-youth-fentanyl Today, one of our students even has made an education video that premiered last fall and is going national. https://www. fentanylhigh.com I attended the Narcan distribution at San Lorenzo Valley School District it was drivethru and they gave 4 boxes. In my school district we have community education events and pass out Narcan. Today students get training and Narcan. My son had Narcan in his suit pocket at his prom. My sons also have Narcan in their first aid kits, all parents need to add this to their first aid kits. I have it in my home and car. One pill addicts, and can kill.n

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“Monica Martinez” from page 8 What thoughts do you have on boosting affordable housing, finding real solutions for homelessness and the daily traffic jams on Highway 1? e need to prioritize the development of housing near job centers, create walkable neighborhoods, and establish affordable transit options accessible to people of all income levels. This includes constructing low-income housing, workforce housing, farmworker housing and market-rate housing. However, this must be done in the right way; much of the 5th District is rural and mountainous, and not appropriate for building dense, multi-family housing, but there are certain places in the district that are more urban, and those areas could be considered for increasing infill density. It’s imperative to support rebuilding after disasters like the CZU fire, winter flooding, and other climate-related events. In the 5th District, our housing stock has been significantly affected, emphasizing the need to preserve existing homes by facilitating quick repairs or reconstruction. I am open to exploring various avenues to subsidize affordable housing, such as direct budget allocations, forming publicprivate partnerships, pursuing state and federal grants, implementing tax increases on the wealthiest members of our community, issuing bonds, and making suitable government-owned land available for affordable

housing projects. It’s essential to consider all options to ensure everyone in our community has access to safe and affordable housing. I strongly support compassionate solutions to homelessness, including addressing the root causes of homelessness and providing support, services, and housing to help individuals and families find stable, long-term housing. These solutions require a multi-faceted, holistic approach that takes into account the individual circumstances of homeless individuals and families. I strongly believe in the Housing First approach to homelessness, which provides stable, permanent housing to homeless individuals without preconditions like sobriety or participation in treatment programs. Housing First recognizes that having a safe and stable place to live is a fundamental human need and a crucial first step in addressing other issues that contribute to homelessness. Other solutions include increasing the availability of affordable housing, as well as supportive housing, which combines affordable housing with services such as mental and physical health care, substance abuse treatment, and job training. Prevention is also important, including providing emergency financial assistance, help finding housing, legal aid, and other services that help people avoid being homeless. Finally, public education and awareness can help reduce the stigma associated with homelessness and build community support for compassionate solutions.

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Regarding traffic, I support alternative transportation methods to reduce our dependence on cars. Public transit plays a critical role in reducing traffic congestion, cutting emissions, and providing accessible transportation options for our community. Sustainable transportation and responsible land use planning are essential elements of addressing congestion and environmental concerns. I will prioritize solutions that align with our goal of promoting sustainable transportation options. This includes ensuring new developments are well-connected to public transit and encouraging alternatives to single-occupancy vehicle use. I am committed to actively working with our state and federal partners to explore additional funding sources for public transit options, such as Santa Cruz Metro, including ParaCruz, and the Rail and Trail. This may include pursuing grants, advocating for increased funding allocations, and seeking innovative funding mechanisms to support and improve our public transit system. Investing in our public transit system and making it more accessible to all is a win-win proposition. It’s an essential step toward building a more sustainable and inclusive transportation infrastructure. Can you talk about your housing situation? Homeowner or renter? How does that help you relate to 5th District constituents? hen I first moved to Santa Cruz County in 2010, I was a renter, and then I became a first-time homebuyer in 2014. As a former renter, I deeply empathize with the concerns of renters and I support many common-sense tenant protections, including anti-discrimination laws, just cause eviction, protection from retaliation, protection for tenants who are victims of domestic violence. I recognize the difficulty of purchasing a home in Santa Cruz County, and I want to do everything I can to both support renters and make it easier to purchase a home.

As a homeowner, I also understand the challenges that home ownership brings, including dealing with the county planning department and the fear of losing homeowners’ insurance. I strongly support a reform of the county planning department to remove red tape, accelerate the permitting process, and ease the burden on homeowners. While the homeowners’ insurance crisis will not be solved at the local government level, I am committed to advocating to our state and federal government representatives to demand action from them. Can you describe your family situation? Married/single? Children/pets? am the parent of two children who attend SLV Elementary School. We have a goldendoodle named Hank and a cat named Mr. Bojangles. Your favorite spot in the 5th district? love Henry Cowell State Park and I take pride in my ability to navigate from the San Lorenzo Valley to Scotts Valley and Santa Cruz via hiking trail. You spend your free time doing what? ’m a mom of two active and busy children, so most of my “free” time revolves around kids sports and school activities. However, I also love spending time outdoors, playing recreational softball and seeing live music. How long have you lived in Santa Cruz County? What brought you here? have lived in Santa Cruz County since 2010. I moved to Santa Cruz County when I accepted the job of executive director of the Homeless Services Center (now Housing Matters). What prompted you to run? ’m running for 5th District supervisor because I’ve lived through the challenges of the last few years: the pandemic, CZU fire, winter storms. The 5th District is where I’m raising my children, and I want them to grow up in a thriving, resilient community. It’s where I’ve

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“Tom Decker” from page 8 Will you push back against the state demands for more housing, as the state auditor says those numbers were based on unsupported assumptions? See https://www. auditor.ca.gov/pdfs/reports/2021-125.pdf his year will be fourth year since the CZU Fire destroyed almost 1,100 family homes in Santa Cruz County. After four years, less than 5% of these homes have been rebuilt. So far, our county has demonstrated they are unable to allow even the homes that were lost the CZU Fire to be rebuilt. Based upon their total failure to perform this basic task, expecting our county to now provide several hundred new state mandated housing is in my opinion a fantasy. People in this district feel we are running out of room for new residents. Not enough water, not enough electricity — PG&E brownouts — and potholes instead of wellmaintained roads. What do you say?

e had enough water, electricity and room for the 550 families before the CZU Fire destroyed their homes. Less than 34 of these homes have been rebuilt since the fire four years ago. Simple math would show that we are about 500 homes from being back to the number of homes that we had in the 5th District four years ago. PG&E brownouts and pot-holes are additional signs that our current system needs to be reexamined and reformed. In the first 10 months of 2023, Santa Cruz County Coroner Stephany Fiore tallied 115 accidental fatal drug overdoses. County health officials want to be more proactive. What more could be done? atal drug overdoses caused by Fentanyl smuggled across the Southern border of our county is a national crisis. We are losing over 300,000 Americans every year to Fentanyl overdoses. That’s more Americans than were lost in World War II. It’s a national problem that must be addressed and solved on a local level. n

witnessed county government fall short in helping to rebuild lost homes, and the failing of basic infrastructure like roads, power, broadband, and water. I want to change that. I’ve spent my career in public service, and have firsthand experience using public funding to improve lives. For the last decade, I’ve served as CEO of Encompass Community Services, the largest health and human services nonprofit in Santa Cruz County, providing essential behavioral health, childhood development, and housing services. I understand the county government’s strengths and weaknesses in meeting community needs. Will you push back against the state demands for more housing, as the state auditor says those numbers were based on unsupported assumptions? See https://www. auditor.ca.gov/pdfs/reports/2021-125.pdf hile it is concerning to me that the Department of Housing and Community Development has made errors and inaccurate assessments, I still believe we need to build more housing in some parts of Santa Cruz County. It is critical to prioritize transit-oriented development, workforce housing, and farmworker housing, not just to increase our housing stock, which will make housing more affordable, but also to decrease dependency on cars, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support economic development. I will also advocate to our state elected officials to encourage the Department of Housing and Community Development

to correct their assessment process, as it’s critical that they are providing counties with accurate information. People in this district feel we are running out of room for new residents. Not enough water, not enough electricity — PG&E brownouts — and potholes instead of wellmaintained roads. What do you say? While I do not support uncontrolled growth, I believe we can carefully add housing in certain parts of the district, including rebuilding homes lost in the CZU Fire and winter storms. To do this successfully, the County needs to invest in projects that will have a lasting impact on our aging infrastructure, and ensure the 5th District receives its fair allocation of County resources, which is not currently happening. Our roads and electricity are fixed more slowly than other parts of the county; we need a stronger voice to fight for the 5th District and demand we are not left behind. We also need to lobby our state representatives to hold PG&E accountable for their high prices and unreliability, and at the County level, we need to ensure they are improving their fire safety around poles and wires. The County also needs to invest in the expansion of reliable broadband and cellular access for rural residents and small businesses. In the first 10 months of 2023, Santa Cruz County Coroner Stephany Fiore tallied 115 accidental fatal drug overdoses. County health officials want to be more proactive. What more could be done?

his is a tragic crisis in our community, and one on which the County must take further action. Encompass Community Services is the largest provider of substance use treatment services in Santa Cruz County. In my role as CEO, as well as a board member of the Santa Cruz County Health Improvement Partnership, I have participated in SafeRx efforts, which is a coalition of government, social service, and healthcare organizations that works towards a healthy, thriving, safe, equitable Santa Cruz County through prevention, increased treatment access, and evidence-based, harm reduction practices, to improve community well-being and save lives. I support initiatives such as increasing the availability of Naloxone, or Narcan, which reverses the effects of an opioid overdose, and I have participated in Narcan distributions in the past. I also strongly support increased access to substance abuse treatment programs, including integrated services that address mental health issues as well. I also support the County partnering with community organizations, schools, and healthcare providers to enhance education and outreach efforts around the risks of drug overdose and the availability of prevention and treatment options. The County and its partners also need to ensure prevention programs are tailored to addressing the needs of specific high-risk populations, such as those with a history of substance use disorders or history of incarceration, as well as homeless individuals. n

“Christopher Bradford” from page 9

Our tax base being further thinned by the inability of many victims of natural disasters to rebuild, specifically the people trying to recover from the CZU fires and the disastrous response from the County after. I say we need investment in infrastructure, including water catchment and other natural resources related initiatives, and we need to rebuild homes that were lost and further create opportunities to build ADUs and other housing in our neighborhoods. We can expand our tax base, create affordable housing for ourselves and our neighbors, and make our district a better home for everyone involved to live in and thrive in. In the first 10 months of 2023, Santa Cruz County Coroner Stephany Fiore tallied 115 accidental fatal drug overdoses. County health officials want to be more proactive. What more could be done? he best thing we can do here is education. We have to make sure people are making informed decisions, and understand the risks they are taking in the current environment when it comes to substances. With the proliferation of fentanyl, it’s cheapness, and the ease with which people selling illicit substances can use it to increase their profits, we got to make sure folks including young people in our schools know the risks they are taking and how to keep themselves safe. n

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Felton Library Launches Marc Shargel Exhibit A bove and Below California’s Ocean, through the photography of Marc Shargel is a nature photography exhibit at Felton Library. featuring images of local marine life and drastic changes in ecology, plus iconic western landscapes and eclipse photography. Shargel is an award-winning nature photographer, marine conservationist and Marc Shargel author of the threevolume Wonders of the Sea coffee-table series of books. The exhibit will be displayed at the

Felton Library from Jan. 2 to March 29 in the community room. The library is open to the public 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday thru Thursday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. ••• arc Shargel has taken his cameras underwater to photograph sharks, jellies, and kelp forests. On land he has made vivid images of eclipses and the great landscapes of the American West. As a scuba diver, he has been watching ecological

shifts in the Central California Pacific since the 1970s. Recently, he has used his camera to document stunning changes to California’s kelp forests. Shargel observed slow but continuous decreases in marine life during scuba dives from 1978 to 2013. Then, suddenly California’s kelp began to disappear, and with it over 1,000 species that live in kelp forests. Since 1997 he has been a champion for marine reserves, which are no-take areas

that function as refuges and nurseries for life in our ocean. He played an integral part in drawing the boundaries for new marine reserves along the Central Coast. Renowned marine biologist Sylvia Earle calls them “hope spots.” But in 2013, just six years after the new reserves went into effect, stunning changes in marine life presented a new threat. Shargel will reveal a photographic chronicle of the beautiful but nowthreatened kelp forests found just beyond local shores. Shargel’s photos of California marine life were a unique contribution to the debate about creating marine reserves in Central California.

Classic Toys

ACROSS 1. Sri Lankan language 6. Something to chew on, especially for cows 9. Mascara holder 13. Muscat resident 14. “____ Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” 15. Father, colloquially 16. Jewish folklore creature 17. Debtor’s letters 18. Art class prop 19. *Barbie’s little sister 21. *____4 game 23. One less than jack 24. *____Frog educational toy

25. Nutcracker’s distinguishing feature 28. Taboo, alt. sp. 30. Cooking fat 35. Deserter’s acronym 37. President’s David 39. Shower accessory 40. Pro ____ 41. Conical dwellings 43. Prep flour 44. *Thomas or Henry, e.g. 46. Law school test acronym 47. Genealogist’s creation 48. Maurice of “Where the Wild Things Are” 50. Flying saucers 52. Make mistakes 53. Chemically-induced curls 55. Harry Potter’s Hedwig

57. *Certain Patch 61. *Not real dough 65. Normal 66. Clingy seed container 68. ____-____-la 69. Theater curtain fabric 70. Put into service 71. Female deer, pl. 72. Pub offering 73. Goo on a trunk 74. What’s in your e-wallet?

DOWN 1. Duds or threads 2. Wildly 3. French Sudan after 1960 4. All thumbs 5. Marine gastropod 6. Coconut fiber

7. *Shedding-type card game 8. Tie in tennis 9. Shark’s provision 10. Part of cathedral 11. Work detail 12. “Stop!” to marchers 15. Correspondence friend (2 words) 20. Make, as in a law 22. Edible type of grass 24. Complete payment (2 words) 25. *Banned lawn darts 26. Fully informed 27. Supreme Teutonic god 29. Get-out-of-jail money 31. Like Neverland boys 32. France’s longest river 33. Bid on a house, e.g. 34. *Certain gun ammo

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36. “Best ____ schemes o’Mice an’ Men” 38. “La Vie en rose” singer 42. Counter seat 45. Flamethrower fuel 49. Party barrel 51. Swaddle 54. Type of puzzle 56. Words in song, sing. 57. Intersection of two arcs 58. Ascus, pl. 59. “____ after reading” 60. Switch’s partner 61. Get ready, for short 62. Comedian Carvey 63. Ford contemporary 64. Jumble 67. North American country

Answers on 18 »

TOP: A Harbor Seal swims near a wharf in Monterey; the reflection of a red and yellow building gives the water surreal coloring in this unretouched photo. • © 1994 Marc Shargel / LivingSeaimages.com MIDDLE: Giant Powder Puff Anemones look as if they’ve been arranged in a bouquet. This natural scene was nearly 100’ deep, off Pacific Grove, on a day when the water was beautifully clear. • © 2022 Marc Shargel / LivingSeaimages. com ABOVE: Marc Shargel has been photographing underwater wonders for decades. This view of fast-growing kelp in a sunlit sea is one of his newer images, taken in September of 2021 in Southern California. • © 2021 Marc Shargel / LivingSeaimages.com

After 2007, as processes to create “parks in the ocean” moved to other parts of the state, he created larger photo essays for each region. These became a series of three lavishly printed coffee-table volumes, his Wonders of the Sea books. Following that, he authored the soft cover Yesterday’s Ocean: A History of Marine Life on California’s Central Coast. Shargel is well-known to local art lovers as well: his home-studio is a regular stop on the Santa Cruz County Open Studios tour each October, as well as the San Lorenzo Valley Art Tour each May. His photography includes placid vistas beneath sunlit kelp forests, and encounters with everything from jewellike snails to swarming jellies and schooling hammerhead sharks. He has presented at nearly every dive club in the greater Bay Area, and dozens of civic organizations as well. n ••• Felton Library, a branch of Santa Cruz Public Libraries; 6121 Gushee Street; Felton, CA 95018 Additional details can be found at www. LivingSeaimages.com/events.php

I Was Wondering — What is the Sound of Humanity’s Freedom? Esoteric Astrology • February 2024 • By Risa D’Angeles

nd so, the transformative planet Pluto entered Aquarius, sign of humanity itself, of freedom, of hopes, wishes and dreams of a new future, of community and cooperation and charity, last Saturday, January 20th. After fifteen years in the earth sign of Capricorn, Pluto will be in the air sign of Aquarius (in and out a few times) for the next 20 years — ‘til 2043! And so I am wondering these things and this has been on my mind. What will be the sound of our entire society of people in every country, everywhere in the world - what will be the sound of their response as Pluto moves through Aquarius, sign of freedom, liberty, self-determination, sovereignty and independence? What will be the sound of humanity’s response to this change? As Pluto moves forward in Aquarius, unimpeded, I am wondering what will be the responses and sounds, reverberations and expressions, the music and the arts of the people in the world as this critical shift of energy, element and vibration unfold. Like the soft petals of a lotus, we hope. ARIES

What will be the sounds we hear in the new world, what will be the new narratives, the new friendships, new trends, new order of things? How will our innate sense of freedom evolve, grow, progress, advance, expand and display itself in daily life? I am wondering these things. Perhaps we hear or sense a longing for vision, for community in humanity, impossible to describe. The keynotes of Aquarius. Aquarius is the light that shine on Earth and across the seas. The light that shines within the dark, cleansing with its healing rays, that which must be purified until the dark is gone. Aquarius is the “electrical waters of life poured forth for thirsty humanity.” During the month of Aquarius disciples read the Labors of Hercules (the 11th Labor, Aquarius). Humanity itself is Hercules. The 11th Labor is the cleansing of the stables (casting a cleansing light onto the darkness allowed to be seen in the Kali Yuga). Here is a link so you can join us, the New Group of World Servers, in reading — https://www.bailey.it/files/ Labours-of-Hercules.pdf n

LEO

SAGITTARIUS

You long to be free to pursue your usual pleasures and enjoyments. However ambition and success call and that requires Saturnian discipline and the full completion of all tasks, something unusual and not easy for Aries. Where is Taurus, you ask, the one who comes in and completes everything? Things silent, quiet and hidden increase around you. Imaginative ideas fill your mind. Something’s changing within you. It’s good and will be vital for the unfolding of the new era.

Many obligations will be met this month and though important it can result in much too much work. However you are ethical and will persevere and when you have completed these tasks a sense of self-worth emerges. Something may come to a crisis in the months leading up to June. It’s perhaps something that occurs to you in terms of remembering how you have cared for (or didn’t) others., How you may or may not have loved and valued those in your care. Visualize what could have been. Then a healing comes forth.

Your values, what you value, who is of value, you as valuable – these continue to be questions you are pondering. I suggest no traveling until after mid-March. Situations can feel empty ‘til then. Are unclear financial situations coming into focus? And how is your home life? Something feels challenging or limited or restricted there? Or perhaps new responsibilities have been incurred. A new structure or new foundation may be needed. Everything increases in value. Think, gather, find, share. Your keynotes.

TAURUS

VIRGO

Things were going along smoothly (somewhat) and then Pluto shifted into Aquarius. This is good. It allows Capricorns to assess their resources, and to see the self as a vital resource to the family. You may ask what new persona you want to project into the world. A transformation of self along with values will slowly unfold in the next months and years. New learnings will take place. Perhaps a study group will emerge. Whenever conflicts arise seek to find and then radiate the “love that truly underlies all events.”

LIBRA

Many new ideas are occurring and these are stimulated by Sun in Aquarius. The new era is also stimulating you to make changes concerning old beliefs and long held ideas no longer useful. Has communication been difficult and are relationships a bit conflictual? Great things are in store for you in the coming months. Do take the time to listen quietly to your higher mind and open heart. Follow what inspires you and aim as high as you can. The new era calls to you. It needs teachers.

GEMINI

Things, people, events, ideas, everything in daily life may feel stalled, a feeling that nothing’s really happening. The reality is everything’s going into deeper layers of review and reflection. New structures are being called forth. All outer structures are slowly disappearing. There’s a question about your home. Is something occurring there? New people, new pets, new decor? The past is slowly coming into focus. Your interpretations of the past need review and revamping. It needs more love and care. You will learn this as the months unfold.

It’s good to have time alone, in solitude and quiet for lengths of time so you can rest, relax and rejuvenate. During this time it’s important to recognize your needs, then you can assess the needs of others. When we look through this lens of need, the entire world shifts. Know that beginning now and for the next year or so, your money, finances, resources, values and all that you possess become important. Use your money very wisely. And praise those who have the courage of their convictions. Soon it will be time to evaluate what to do for Valentine’s Day. Something to do with the heart.

CANCER

SCORPIO

There are presently two planets in Pisces – Saturn which creates structures, discipline and is the teacher. And Neptune, offering us other worlds to contemplate. Both influence Pisces. Saturn offers the intelligence needed and Neptune, with its deep compassion fuses heart and mind. Then wisdom emerges. For long you’ve wanted to bring forth something in form and matter. This will call for mental realms of thought which will assist in this creation. Visualize what is needed, bless it daily and see it as beauty to be shared in the world. This is magical work.

CAPRICORN

You’re called to be in the spotlight, to teach, mentor, lead and organize. Perhaps you are a co-teacher, or co-chairing a group, calling them to imagine, to envision and to help create a future different than the past. This takes you into a new life-direction that includes the arts which will define you more completely. The arts also highlight previous gifts from the past. You’re now more than ready to accomplish objectives. Remember to build the green house and the warm pool. ABOVE: Sunlight tinted aquamarine filters into the golden brown of a cathedral-like forest of giant kelp. • © 2001 Marc Shargel / LivingSeaimages.com BELOW: Shargel has made photographic art from encounters with marine life ranging from tiny snails, to schools of jellies, to huge sharks. This is an Egg-Yolk Jelly that he found in Carmel Bay in 1999. • © 1999 Marc Shargel / LivingSeaimages.com

It’s good to assess and revise any monetary situation that is becoming too much to handle. And to be very careful with finances on all levels. What helps in this situation is to value all people, resources and interactions. It’s also important to recognize the intuition (Pallas Athena) you bring into daily life. This gift builds and strengthens your self-identity. Tend to your creative gifts – Mars is calling you in your house of creations. It’s almost time to plant spring seedlings!

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Aquarius is pouring it’s healing waters into your heart and mind. Therefore, you will experience many expansive changes in the coming months in terms of how and what you think, what your ideals and goals are and your knowledge of the world. Travel is important now during the springtime. Travel, new destinations, new books and contact with people of different cultures, one in particular should be considered. It would be good to ask if you are as sensitive as you can be with others. Sensitive meaning “acting from the heart of the matter.”

Your usual creativity edges sideways giving you opportunity and inclination to make changes in terms of how much time you give to your artistry, how much time you are out and about in the world and how much time you actually give to those around you. A new exploration is beginning into your emotional world. And new life paths appear. So many times this year you’ve wanted to hide. A new level of pleasure and gladness are sought, new goals, too. But the call to artistry is what is most heard. •••

Risa D’Angeles • www.nightlightnews.org • risagoodwill@gmail.com

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2024 / 19

COMMUNITY CALENDAR The executive director is responsible for carrying out the mission of the organization under the direction of the Board of Directors. Applicants should be familiar with the COUNTY SURVEY ON AGING inner workings of Santa Cruz County’s institutions, its To initiate Age Well Santa Cruz County, a new county decision makers, and current affairs. initiative, a local survey launched on Jan. 8 to collect The executive director plans and coordinates the program J.J. Crosetti, Jr. Memorial Scholarship ($1,000) — Francisco State University, has a bachelor’s degree in community feedback focused on aging. The deadline to for each class year and is expected to be active and for a student entering or currently attending college and visual and environmental studies from Harvard and a respond is March 31. visible in the community working with other governmental, majoring in agriculture. master’s in fine arts from SFSU. The survey is supported by a steering committee of business, and nonprofit organizations. This position requires Laura Brown Memorial Scholarship ($2,000) — for a “The Curious World of Seaweed,” released by Heyday Books in engaged community members and outreach efforts to student entering or currently attending college and majoring strong skills in organizational planning and program develmaximize community participation will take place widely. August 2019, was shortlisted for the Northern California Book in agriculture or a related field or majoring in culinary arts. opment, public speaking, group facilitation skills, budgeting, Award and the Alice Award, recognizing illustrated books. Results from the survey will inform the local master plan Frank Prevedelli Memorial Scholarship ($1,000) — and knowledge of fundraising strategies and opportunities. goals. Graduates of Leadership Santa Cruz County or a similar for a student entering or currently attending college and STATE GRANTS FOR FOREST HEALTH Age Well Santa Cruz County will partner with orgaprogram are preferred. Cal Fire announces up to $8 million in funding for Wildfire majoring in agriculture or a related field. nizations, businesses, clubs, agencies and individuals More than 1,600 individuals have graduated from Lou & Carol Calcagno Memorial Scholarship ($1,000) throughout Santa Cruz County to ensure as many people Resilience Block Grants. This funding supports goals of improved forest health, resilience to climate change, and — for a student entering or currently attending college and Leadership Santa Cruz County since it was founded in as possible participate in the survey. 1985 to enhance the civic participation of emerging majoring in agriculture, or a related field, political science, The survey is online at www.wagewellsantacruzcounty. reduced forestland impacts due to devastating wildfires. history, marine biology, wildlife management, or culinary arts. community leaders. All grant work must be completed by Dec. 31, 2027. org and www.buenavejezcondadodesantacruz.org. For The online application is at: http://www.agri-culture.us/ If interested, submit resume to: lmurphy@cityofsantacruz. Proposals are due 5 p.m. Feb. 26. questions, email AgeWell@santacruzcountyca.gov com with a minimum of three references. More information: To request a paper survey in English or Spanish call (831) 454-4397. For information, see https://www.fire.ca.gov/what-we-do/natural- scholarships/ leadershipsantacruzcounty.org. ••• resource-management/wildfire-resilience To request an application, contact the Financial Aid office at SCOTTS VALLEY RECREATION CALL TO ARTISTS your school or the Agri-Culture office, 141 Monte Vista Ave., CARLTON KEEGAN SCHOLARSHIP Join The Sugar Cookie Fairy for a night of Valentine cookie Watsonville or call (831) 722-6622 or (831) 818-1193 or email: The Recovery Center in Santa Cruz has put out a Call to The Reggie Stephens Foundation will award the Carlton decorating 5:30-7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9 at SV Community Center, Artists to develop a site-specific public art component for agri-culture@sbcglobal.net Dare Keegan Memorial Scholarship to a student who Kings Village Road. their 265 Water St. location. embodies the spirit of Carlton. Carlton struggled with Learn how to make super cute holiday cookies, Ages 13+ The deadline to submit a proposal is March 1. SCOTTS VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL academics pretty much from day 1 of school, and was recommend, includes 3 cookies! No supplies needed and Janus of Santa Cruz will operate and staff the center, Feb 2: Trivia Night, 7-10 p.m. tested and on an IEP by the time he was in 1st grade. open to 20 people. Register before the class fills up. Cost: providing a safe environment for non-violent intoxicated Feb 10: Fashion Show, 6 to 8 p.m. Despite all the challenges Carlton faced over the years, he $35/residents or $45 non-residents individuals to rest and recover until they are sober. The Feb 16 – Feb 19: Presidents’ Day break. No classes Grab your Galentines and get hip hop instruction 6:30-8 persevered and never gave up. Carlton found his passion Recovery Center will provide treatment options, and Feb 21: SVHS Expo/Open House in the football program at Scotts Valley High School, and p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, at SV Community Center. Dance links to case managers, physicians and more. Feb 24: Winter Play, 5 and 8 p.m. became the team captain for both football and lacrosse. instructor Jaelynn Horton will start with a warmup, easy The budget for the public artwork, which includes all Feb 26 – March 1: Culture Week Often teachers would say that Carlton was a leader in and to follow along jams, and then break a simple and sassy costs associated with but not limited to design, materials, Feb 29: Cabaret Night out of the classroom, and that students looked up to him. choreography, step by step. Beginners welcome!! Cost: travel, insurance, fabrication, installation, and documenCarlton was kind to all students, it didn’t matter the $20/pp or $25 non-residents tation, is $6,300. CITIZENS ACADEMY background or interests in common, he was an instant The Recreation Department will host its first Easter Egg Details at https://www.scparks.com/Home/AboutUs/WorkWithUs/ friend and was always looking out for the underdog. Have you ever wondered how much of your taxes stay Hunt 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 23 at Skypark. CalltoArtists.aspx. The scholarship will be awarded to a High School Senior in Scotts Valley? Do you know where funds come from Games, egg hunts, photobooth, crafts and more. Free at Scotts Valley High who is in either in the K Street for schools, library, water or fire service? Are you curious fun; recommended for ages 3 and up. This is expected to MAH 2024 EXHIBITIONS AND PROJECTS Academy, or is on an IEP/Resource — the kind of student about what’s happening with parks, streets or new become an annual event. The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (MAH) is pleased who wouldn’t normally think they could get a scholarship development projects? Register for all events at https://anc.apm.activecommunities. to announce its exhibition program for 2024, which or have the motivation to try. The City of Scotts Valley invites interested residents to com/cityofscottsvalley/activity/search?onlineSiteId=0&activity_ includes solo and group shows, collaborative partnerships, A student who has had to overcome some obstacle apply to participate in the first Citizens Academy, seven select_param=2&viewMode=list in life but never gives up and always tries their best. Tuesday evenings, Feb. 13 through March 26. Applications and the return of its biennial, countywide multi-arts festival. Highlights from the season include: the return of the A student, like Carlton, who has the characteristics of are due Feb. 2. WAS YOUR HOME IMPACTED Rydell Visual Arts Fellowship showcase; a retrospective leadership, kindness, and inclusiveness. Participants will hear from each of the City’s departBY A FEDERALLY DECLARED DISASTER? of renowned landscape painter Richard Mayhew; a group More information about how to apply for the scholarship will be ments as well as the School, Fire and Water Districts. If you are a Santa Cruz County property owner whose exhibition about Filipino migration and labor in the Pajaro Each evening will be packed with information - budget, home was impacted by the 2020 CZU fire or either of the available on March 20. If you have questions email: Michelservices, priorities, projects and an inside look at how local Valley presented with UC Santa Cruz; an exploration of leriddle3@gmail.com Winter Storm disasters of 2023, the Santa Cruz County photographic media with Ansel Adams, Norman Locks, government functions. The program will include tours of Office of Recovery & Resilience is seeking your feedback Karolina Karlic, Shelby Graham, Binh Danh, and Edgar on the rebuild process and new financial recovery support AGRI-CULTURE SCHOLARSHIPS DEADLINE APPROACHING facilities, games and activities. Cruz; a touring exhibition of works by contemporary Black Between 15-25 participants will be chosen. It will be Agri-Culture is accepting applications for six scholarships. resources may be available. artists including Ed Clark, Tunji Adeniyi-Jones, Mickalene important that participants commit to all sessions and The deadline is: Feb.16. Share your experience via anonymous survey. Your Thomas, Kara Walker, Tavares Strachan, among others; arrive on time. A light dinner will be served with each The six scholarships are: feedback will help county staff better understand re-build CommonGround, a 10-day festival of outdoor art and session, starting at 5 pm and wrapping up by 8 pm. Jimmie Cox Memorial Scholarship ($4,000) — for barriers and improve county ability to support your performance hosted across the county; and an in-gallery, Applications are at https://www.scottsvalley.gov/Documenta student entering or currently attending college and recovery goals. It may also help open additional doors to majoring in agriculture. This award includes $2,000 from Center/View/4521/Citizens-Academy-Application-2024-Fillable immersive Afrospeculative experience featuring Bay Area support your recovery. muralists Timothy B, Zoe Boston, and Shogun Shido. If you have questions, email cityhall@scottsvalley.gov American AgCredit. The survey is at http://tinyurl.com/2023-winter-storm-survey From Left: Manuel Bersamin • Binh Danh, 2023 — Untitled • Jeannie Witmer Memorial Scholarship ($1,500) — Richard Mayhew, ©1990 — Fog All Chemy • Karolina Karlic, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SOUGHT for a student active (past or present) in California High CURIOUS WORLD OF SEAWEED 2023 — Blue Dancer • Tunji Adeniyi-Jones, 2018 School Rodeo Association District 4 or California 4-H Leadership Santa Cruz County is now hiring an The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History presents ~~~ Horse Program, entering or currently attending college and executive director, a part time position with salary “The Curious World of Seaweed,” an extraordinary The MAH is a thriving community gathering place that commensurate to experience. exhibition featuring captivating color portraits of seaweed majoring in agriculture and/or animal sciences. offers rotating art and history exhibitions, visual and perbased on the book by photographer and author Josie forming artworks, public festivals, education and outreach Iselin through March 3. programs, and cultural celebrations in collaboration with REDWOOD RX 2024 An author presentation is scheduled at the Museum its many partners. on Feb. 15. The exhibit in partnership with Exhibit Redwood Rx will be happening again in It maintains a permanent collection of regionally significant Envoy highlights Indigenous peoples’ and women’s 2024! art and artifacts, a research library, a historical archive, and connections to seaweed and its vital role as the base This new initiative began in 2023, historic sites including the Evergreen Cemetery, Octagon of the food chain. bringing instructors in Yoga, Qi Gong, and Building, and Davenport Jail. It is also home to Abbott Square, Seaweeds have three requirements for survival: SomeJournaling — to name a few — to Henry a vibrant public plaza on the museum’s doorstep that offers thing to hold onto, sunlight to provide energy, and nutrients Cowell State Redwoods Park in Felton and food, social events, and year-round creative happenings. to fuel growth. They find these three elements in a thin Big Basin State Park in Boulder Creek. MAH is located at 705 Front St. in Santa Cruz. section of the ocean, which accounts for less than 2% of Classes start in April and registration is the sea floor. Yet seaweeds are supreme eco-engineers, targeted for the last week of February / the ARTS DIRECTOR SOUGHT oxygenating the waters and creating habitats for countless first week of March. Pajaro Valley Arts seeks a dynamic and experienced leader organisms, keeping our planet opulently rich in life. To sign up see https://www.mountainparks.org/ to serve as executive director to advance the mission Iselin, who teaches in the School of Design at San

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20 / February 2024 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Madrid, an expert on Latino voting, Debbie Mesloh, one of Kamala Harris’ senior advisors, and Amanda Renteria of Code for America, who serves on the President’s Commission on Hispanic Affairs. The session will be moderated by Zach Friend. Panelists will delve into the current political climate, analyzing trends, challenges, and potential pathways for the future. This event is free to MBEP members, $39 for the general public. To view the previous event, see https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=Emfsw8vY5nA

of the organization: Bringing the Community Together Through the Arts. PVA has a vibrant exhibit program and blossoming arts education programs housed in a 1,200-square foot gallery. Responsibilities include leading a capital campaign to remodel the Porter Building, a 12,000-square foot community facility in downtown Watsonville (owned debt-free) to expand programming. The ideal candidate will be a visionary who has outstanding management, development, organizational, and communication skills/experience. Bilingual/Spanish and arts programming experience are highly desirable. This is a part-time (20-29 hours per week) position, with the possibility of becoming full-time as programming expands at the new facility. The position is at-will, paid hourly and does not include health benefits. The executive director serves at the pleasure of the Board of Directors. Pay commensurate with experience $40-$55 per hour. To apply, send a resume and cover letter to apply@pvarts.org LIBRARY CHIEF SOUGHT The Santa Cruz Public Library System is seeking an experienced professional librarian and leader to serve as head librarian for the Santa Cruz City/County Library System, which has branches around the county. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 4. The salary is $178,212 to $227,352 annually. To review the comprehensive advertising brochure including job requirements, compensation and benefits, go to https:// www.cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-departments/ human-resources/city-jobs/library-director-recruitment. For questions, contact Teri Black & Company, LLC at www. tbcrecruiting.com.

Friday February 9

RICHARD MAYHEW: INNER TERRAIN On Display February 1 thru May 12

Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, 705 Front St. A rare and timely exhibition of the artwork of Soquel artist Richard Mayhew (b. 1924) at the Museum of Art & History, feature works that speak to American arts, culture, and history. Mayhew blends multiple genres including Baroque landscape, Impressionism, plein-air, Abstract Expressionism, and Color Field painting using mechanisms from each. He calls his landscapes “moodscapes” as an introspective excavation of the terrain of his mind. This exhibition — guest curated by Shelby Graham and Kajahl — is presented with support from Community Foundation Santa Cruz County and Santa Cruz County Bank.

LEAP OF KINDNESS DAY February 29 happens every four years, so why not do something extra special with that extra day. The Pajaro month from 10:30 to noon at the La Selva Beach Valley Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture asks library. everyone to participate in Leap of Kindness Day. First meeting was Oct. 13. Bette Harken, Master Bridge Consider donating your time and talent to help local people, player, will give an introduction for beginners. charities and non-profit organizations. It’s an excellent oppor- Call La Selva Library to reserve your seat: 831-427-7710. tunity to thank first responders, nurses and Veterans too. Non-profits are encouraged to email Info@pajarovalley DATED EVENTS chamber.com to share what your organization needs. These requests will be shared on the Chamber’s Instagram page. Saturday February 3 Businesses: Let us know what you plan to do for Leap of DR. MICHAEL GREGER: HOW NOT TO AGE Kindness Day so you get an Instagram shout-out! 7-9 p.m., Rio Theatre, 1205 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz Best-selling author and physician Dr. Michael Greger will COUNTY FAIR BOARD MEETINGS The Santa Cruz County Fair Board will meet each month in speak at the Rio Theatre on “How Not to Age,” which is the title of his 2024 except September and November. Remaining dates are Feb. 27, March 26, April 23, May newest book. Bookshop Santa Cruz is cospon28, June 25, July 23, Aug. 27, Oct. 22, and Dec. 3. soring the event, with all proceeds There is no meeting in September or November. going to nonprofits Eat for the Earth, Meetings typically begin at 1:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday in the Heritage Building at the fairgrounds, 2601 Santa Cruz VegFest, Center for Farmworker Families and Vegan East Lake Blvd., Watsonville. Outreach. For agendas, posted 10 days in advance, see santacruzcounDr. Greger is on a nationwide tour, presenting his latest tyfair.com book, How Not to Age: The Scientific Approach to Getting Healthier as You Get Older. He will share ONGOING EVENTS simple, accessible, and evidence-based methods to preserve your body and keep you feeling youthful, physiMondays cally and mentally. BRIDGE CLUB The event will feature whole-food, plant-based 10:30 a.m.-Noon, 7695 Soquel Dr, Aptos, CA 95003 appetizers created by Eat for the Earth, including: Savory The Capitola Branch Library will host Bridge Club Mushroom Poppers, Artisan Cultured Nut Cheese Minisessions on Mondays (except holidays). Sandwiches on Onion-Flax Bread and Carob Mint Pie with Bridge Club will move to Aptos Library after it opens Coconut Crust Feb. 4. Tickets are $25 at bit.ly/GregerSantaCruz Bridge Club is a partnership between Santa Cruz County Parks and Santa Cruz Public Libraries. Tuesday February 6 Register at scparks.com or in-person the day of the event. LAIRD TO SPEAK 6:30 p.m., Bruno’s Bar and Grill, 230 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley Second Friday Each Month Sen. John Laird will be the guest speaker for the NEW BRIDGE GROUP Democratic Club of North Santa Cruz County. He will 10:30-Noon, La Selva Beach Public Library, 316 Estrella Ave. discuss the Governor’s budget proposal for the next fiscal Come for bridge on the second Friday of each

LANDSCAPE RESILIENCE METRICS WORKSHOP 10 a.m. to Noon, Online Meeting The California Wildfire & Resilience Task Force is looking for public input on the process for selecting Core Reporting Metrics that will be used to track and report progress on landscape resilience goals. The workshop will help frame the need and use of the Core Reporting Metrics and provide an opportunity for public engagement to ensure the metrics are meaningful to stakeholders. Register at http://tinyurl.com/landscape-metric-workshop-zoom.

Saturday February 10

PAINT YOUR PET! 2-5 p.m., 2100 Delaware Ave, Suite B, Santa Cruz Join Pregnant Mare Rescue for a Paint Your Pet fundraiser at an studio on the westside of Santa Cruz. A complimentary glass of wine, beer, Gatorade, soda or coffee and nibbles are included! Feel free to bring in your own food and drinks to enjoy. Tickets are $75; price includes a hand-sketched portrait of your pet onto a 12 x 12 stretched canvas, all art supplies, and 3 hours of professional instruction. Register for the event at http://tinyurl.com/pmrpaint-your-pet-2024 and then email a picture of your pet to kim@paintedcork.com, and it will be hand sketched on-to your canvas for you before the event. Please send your pet picture as soon as possible and no later than Feb. 6.

year and Proposition One, which will be on the March 5 primary ballot. The proposition would provide bond funds for mental health treatment facilities for people with mental health and substance abuse challenges and housing for individuals who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Saturday February 24 Also, candidates running for the Democratic Central DEATHS, DIVAS & DREAMS Committee in the 5th District will be introduced. Club meetings are upstairs at Bruno’s Bar and Grill in the 5:30 / 8 p.m., Scotts Valley Performing Arts Center, 251 Kings Village Rd, Scotts Valley Kings Village Shopping Center. Scotts Valley High School Drama Club presents **Deaths, Members of the public are welcome to attend. Divas, and Dreams: A Night of 10-Minute Musicals and Plays** directed by Ava Kreer and Sydney Clark. Wednesday February 7 This is a night of comedy, heartbreak, and hope. SUPERVISOR CANDIDATES FORUM The show consists of two 10-minutes plays — 6-8:30 p.m., Highlands Park Senior & Community Center, 8500 **Abandoning Taylor** by Erica Joy Lloyd and **[PG]** Highway 9, Ben Lomond. by Nat Gruca — and two 10-minute musicals The Valley Women’s Club of San Lorenzo Valley will host —**Finding the Words** by Andy Roninson and Chris a forum for the 5th District supervisor candidates at Critelli and **Bittersweet Lullaby** by Will Lacker and Highlands Park Senior & Community Center. Dylan Glatthorn. Theresa Ann Bond, Christopher Bradford, Tom Decker, This is a one-day-only event, with two shows at the new and Monica Martinez are seeking to succeed Bruce Scotts Valley Performing Arts Center! McPherson, who is retiring after three terms. Tickets are $12 general/$10 for students/seniors and can The League of Women Voters will moderate. be purchased online at https://www.showtix4u.com/eventIssues to be addressed include environmental details/80836 or with cash only at the door. concerns, wildfire mitigation, water management, PG&E ratepayer issues, health care, affordable housing, Saturday February 24 education, and senior services. You can submit quesSunday February 25 tions at the event. CA PIG CHASE Co-sponsors are the Boulder Creek Business Association and Cabrillo College Tennis Courts, 6500 Soquel Dr Aptos. Highlands Park Senior & Community Center. Cabrillo College will host the CA Pickleball is Great 2024 ELECTION OUTLOOK tournament at the tennis courts. 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Location TBA Men & women’s doubles play Saturday; mixed doubles Following up on the engaging discourse initiated during are Sunday. Age brackets from under 50 to 60+. Gold, the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership’s Annual State silver and bronze awarded. Round Robin format. of the Region in November 2023, the nonprofit will host Deadline to register is Feb. 18 at 11:45 p.m. Fee is $45. a lunch and panel discussion on 2024 Election — CA PIG Chase events are scheduled each month thru Democracy, Hope, and Action, lunch included, at a June. location to be announced. Register (and more details) at http://tinyurl.com/Cabrillo-PIGThis panel discussion features speakers including Mike chase. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2024 / 21

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Progress on Roads & Water, but FEMA Funds Lagging

t this point last year, the County was reeling from the first of several severe storms that caused massive flooding, downed trees and power lines, and catastrophic waves. The various events resulted in damage throughout the County, from the San Lorenzo Valley to the Pajaro River. As winters become ever more unpredictable, the County has great resources to share on preparing for severe weather. I encourage everyone to visit the Office of Response, Recovery and Resilience’s webpage called “Plan and Prepare,” which is housed under the “Response” heading at www.santacruzcountyca.gov/OR3.aspx Even if we escape this winter largely unscathed, we know the high frequency of natural disasters are the new reality. In fact, our County has experienced seven federally declared disasters since 2017, including numerous major storm events, COVID, and the CZU Lightning Fire. To date, we have $160 million in unreimbursed disaster expenses from federal agencies. That represents nearly a quarter of our annual General Fund. State and federal partners are aware of these financial challenges and are working to support our recovery and resilience efforts. Yet the Board is faced with likely borrowing significantly in coming months to meet obligations and voted to place a proposed sales tax increase on the March 5 ballot to fund core services. While we closely monitor our County’s financial situation, my office has spent a great deal of time in recent years tackling some long-standing challenges in District 5, mostly related to infrastructure. These are the kinds of problems that require systemic, expensive solutions, and we will continue to largely focus our efforts there for 2024, my last year in office. We’re talking about the safety of

By Bruce McPherson, Supervisor, Fifth District

roads; the quality and reliability of water; and the overall health of our environment, which primarily now means addressing climate change. The Regional Transportation Commission continues to make great progress with various partners on the San Lorenzo Valley Complete Streets Corridor Plan, most notably on safety improvements between the school campuses and downtown Felton. The RTC secured Caltrans funding to tackle parts of the Felton project, including sidewalks, bike lanes and crosswalk improvements from the schools to downtown in the first phase to start in 2025. Meanwhile, we have made many improvements, both scheduled maintenance and emergency repairs, to County-maintained roads. The good news is, the County has repaired 120 of the 200 storm-damaged sites countywide, costing us approximately $75 million. Nearly half of the work done to date is in District 5. The bad news is, because of the federal reimbursement issue, we have to slow down our work in coming years to preserve cash flow. Our Measure D program for 2023 focused on pavement management in Felton, where in years past Boulder Creek, Ben Lomond and Brookdale received attention. The work for 2024, depending on funding, will focus again on Felton and unincorporated areas near Scotts Valley. The County secured an unprecedented $850,000 state grant just three weeks ago to stabilize the Big Basin Water system in coordination with the receiver appointed by the Santa Cruz County Superior Court last fall to manage the company. The grant will also help address some repairs that would otherwise cost Big Basin Water ratepayers a bundle. In December, the Board of Supervisors

22 / February 2024 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

approved a new agreement between the City of Scotts Valley and the County regarding a shared formula for County Service Area 9C. Scotts Valley property owners have been paying into the CSA 9C fund for many years and initially received solid waste services from the County. But the City has been providing those services directly to constituents for some years now and, therefore, a fairer revenue sharing formula was needed. At the request of the City, my office facilitated bringing the parties together and a reasonable agreement was reached. As a result, $523,000 was transferred from the County to the City for recycling programs. Lastly, to circle back to disaster response, we will continue to support the County’s climate action and resiliency efforts, which have been underwritten in large part by the success of Central Coast Community Energy, a project initiated through the District 5 office.

In 2023, 3CE brought the County of San Luis Obispo on board for a total of 35 member agencies across five counties, and we are still on target to provide 100% renewable energy by 2030. n EDITOR’S NOTE: On Jan. 30, the County of Santa Cruz announced an $850,000 emergency one-time state grant for the community served by Big Basin Water Co., a privately owned utility now operated under a court-appointed receiver, Serviam by Wright LLP. Customers have faced water outages due to substandard infrastructure. This will fund overdue retrofits for failing infrastructure and engineering and investigative efforts to make transition of ownership and control possible. The county Office of Response, Recovery & Resilience sought the special funding many months ago. ••• Bruce McPherson is Santa Cruz County supervisor in the Fifth District. Email him at Fifth.District@santacruzcountyca.gov

SCCAS Featured Pet

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Bareroot Season Begins in January

C Stellaaaaa!

crossword on 23 »

ur Pet of the week is stellar Stella (#A305284)! Stella was our POTW in November but has not been adopted yet! She is still as smart as a whip and since the last time she was featured she has gone to a foster home and is having a blast! She loves playing with her 95lb dog foster sibling and is getting so much enrichment and socialization with their time together. Stella sleeps through the night, is potty trained and is learning all kinds of new things. At the Shelter she had been a little mouthy when she was over tired or over stimulated but in her foster home, and with plenty of exercise and play with her foster brother, she has been very well behaved and not mouthy. While she came to the Shelter with a lot of pent-up energy and typical puppy enthusiasm for life she has learned so much from staff, volunteers and her foster family. She is such a smartie pants she already knows sit! She is a prime candidate for an adopter who is excited about working with a dog and using positive reinforcement training to create a trusting relationship. Adopters are recommended to be dog-savvy and understanding. We do not have any history of Stella with cats. Because Stella thrives so much with other dogs she is required to go to a home with another dog. So if you are looking for a new playmate for your energetic pup, Stella is your girl! ••• 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. ••• 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. • 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

By Tony Tomeo

hristmas trees and associated items are no imposition for nurseries. They are seasonal while not much else is appealing to a retail market. They occupy retail area that summer and autumn commodities relinquished earlier. Then, they relinquish their same space as bareroot stock becomes seasonable. The chronology is very coincidentally very efficient. Bareroot season is not actually contingent on the end of Christmas tree season. It begins with winter dormancy of bareroot stock. This dormancy merely and fortuitously coincides with Christmas. It is as effective as anesthesia for surgery. Basically, dormant stock goes to sleep on a farm, and awakens in a new home garden. Timing of the process is critical. Bareroot stock initially grows in the ground rather than within nursery cans. Separation of its roots from the soil they grew is harmless during dormancy. Both roots and stems need simultaneous pruning. Then, stock is ready for transport without soil. Some gets packing of moist sawdust in plastic bags. Most awaits resale from bins of moist sand at nurseries. Bareroot stock has several advantages to more familiar canned nursery stock. It is much less expensive. It is also much less cumbersome. So, not only are more items affordable, but also, more fit into a car at the nursery. Their relatively small roots systems are easy to install. More importantly, without

Bare roots are dormant for winter.

binding, their new roots disperse much more efficiently. Deciduous fruit trees are the most popular bareroot stock. This includes stone fruits such as apricot, cherry, plum, prune, peach and nectarine. Also, it includes pomme fruits such as apple, pear and quince. Roses and cane berries are likely the second most popular of bareroot stock. Persimmon, pomegranate, fig, mulberry, and nut trees are also available. Some of the more unusual bareroot stock is available only from online catalogues. More variety seems to become available locally though. Elderberry has only been available in California for the past several years. Currant and gooseberry are variably available here. Artichoke, asparagus, rhubarb and strawberry are perennials that are available bareroot. Cultivars of blueberry and grapevines are available. ••• Heath eaths, which are several species of Erica, derive their name from their natural habitats. They are endemic to shrublands of acidic and seasonally dry soil of inferior quality. Such ecosystems, or heaths, do not sustain many big trees or shrubbery. Species from heaths should Heath for winter. be resilient to Heather for summer. dry chaparral summers. However, they dislike locally alkaline soils. This is unfortunately why heaths are quite rare within gardens here. They are popular as blooming potted plants for winter, but become scarce afterward. Within planters of potting media, they may grow and bloom for many years. In the ground though, they are likely to languish without acidifying amendment. They prefer the company of coniferous species. Heath blooms for winter or very early spring. Heather is a similar relation, but blooms for summer or autumn. Floral color ranges from white to pink to rustic purplish pink. Flowers are dinky but abundant. Comparably dinky evergreen leaves are like soft juniper scales. Almost all available heaths grow less than five feet high. Most grow less than a foot high. n ••• Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo. com.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / February 2024 / 23

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