Scotts Valley Times: May 2024

CHAMPIONSHIP SEASON

The third annual Scotts Valley Multicultural Fair will be Saturday, May 4, from 10:30 am - 3:30 pm at

For Coach Luke Dahlen, it all began after school on Monday Jan. 29, at DeLaveaga Golf Course in Santa Cruz, for the first practice of the year. ... continues on page 4

Dominique Parrish, who was introduced to wrestling in her hometown of Scotts Valley, will represent Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She qualified on April 20 to represent the U.S. in women’s wrestling at 53 kg. Full Story page 5

6 Auditor: California Not Tracking State Spending on Homeless 7 Multicultural Fair

8 Santa Cruz County Cycling Club: Invites You to the Newest Ride

15 Volunteer Center to Recognize Community Service Stars

16 EPA Limits Forever Chemicals in Drinking Water, By Jondi Gumz • Insurance Chief Proposes Reform: Consumer Watchdog says Transparency Needed

19 County Sales Tax Hike, Hospital Bond Pass: Martinez & Bradford in Nov. 5 Runoff, By Jondi Gumz • Jobs in Santa Cruz County

22 Federal Funds for Community Projects: Includes $1 Million for Town Center; Child Care in Cabrillo Student Housing

Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Newsletter • Pages 11-14

11 Scotts Valley Community Awards Gala May 10 • Victor Alejandro: Alvin Scarborough Man of the Year • June Barron: Annette Marcum Woman of the Year

12 Steel Bonnet Brewing Company: Business of the Year • Scotts Valley Girls Softball: Organization of the Year

13 Christie Danner: Educator of the Year • Kavin Pugazhenthi: Youth of the Year

14 Member Spotlight: Star One Credit Union • Keira Mulder: Chamber Ambassador of the Year

5 Scotts Valley’s Olympic Athlete: Dominique Parrish, By Jondi Gumz In Memoriam

7 Coach Rich Hager: Celebration of Life May 18

Monthly Horoscope • Page 18 – Taurus: Beauty, Bible, Egypt, Moses & the Ten Commandments, By Risa D’Angeles Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 20, 21

Columnists

6 New Approaches to Homelessness are Needed: State Shift Led to Fewer Mental Health Hospitalizations, By Michael Fitzgerald

9 Youth Environmental Summit: Goal to Inspire Change: Students from Scotts Valley and SLV Participate, By Sylvi Kayser

10 Wishes for Mom on Mother’s Day, By Robert Scott, the Inquiring Photographer

15 Unsung Heroes: Eternally Grateful, By Randy Johnson, Mayor, City of Scotts Valley

COVER STORY

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Patrice Edwards editor

Jondi Gumz

contributing writers

Jondi Gumz, Risa D’Angeles, Michael Fitzgerald, Sylvi Kayser, Randy Johnson, Robert Scott

Michael Oppenheimer

Michael Oppenheimer, Ward Austin

production coordinator

Camisa Composti

Teri Huckobey, Brooke Valentine, Danielle Paul

coordinator

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“SV Golf” from page 1

“As a team, we gathered in a circle alongside the 18th hole practice green and we set our individual and team goals for the season,” he said. “Some of the individual goals were to make two putts, break 40, improve the short game, etc. but unanimously our team goal was to capture one of the 2 Central Coast Section berths given to the top 2 teams in the league.”

He added, “With our ‘Aim Hard’ philosophy, we practiced for 2 straight weeks before we even played a round of golf. I believe it was that pre-season practice, focused primarily around the practice greens that set the tone for our championship season.”

Scotts Valley Times editor Jondi Gumz interviewed the coach via email.

First, I’m wondering about your golf background.

After graduating from Sonoma State University, I worked at The Links at Bodega Harbour for several years until I realized that, one, you have to be kind of a good golfer to become a teaching professional (which I was ok, but never great) and two, tips from cleaning golf carts weren’t going to pay the bills.

The good news is I have surrounded myself and the players with a group of very knowledgeable golf coaches that include PGA teaching professional Jerry Thormann and Phillip D’Andrea along with some fellow committed parent coaches like myself, John Atkinson, Rob Buntz and Andy Brewer. Did you decide to coach because of your son?

I had coached both of my boys all through Little League baseball and that was coming to an end while at the same time Dave Crandall the previous golf coach was retiring and since I was out there with James already quite a bit, I guess it just made sense.

I can’t think of a better way to end the teaching day than walking along the fairways of our beautiful Santa Cruz County golf courses.

How did your team manage to defeat Aptos, which has been the powerhouse, twice?

I really don’t know...magic maybe? We were so stunned and surprised when we heard the scores in our first match at Seascape. It was a total pinch me moment and I just remember hugging the other coaches and being so proud and stoked for our boys and all the hard work they had put in up until that point.

It was a complete and total team effort and to beat the defending league champs at their home course was as unexpected as our #5 Wyatt McCabe, chipping in on the last hole in front of both teams and all the parents. It was a surreal and magical moment and a turning point in our season.

Our goal went from hoping to capture one of the 2 CCS golf bids, to securing San Lorenzo Valley High School’s first ever SCCAL golf league title.

The quest for our first title was tested in

I’m really proud of what these boys have accomplished for the school, for all the past SLV golfers and for themselves. Not only are they playing at a high level right now, but they are playing as a team and really seem to be having fun doing it. It’s really cool to watch.

our rematch with Aptos at our home course of Boulder Creek Golf and Country Club (or as we call it ‘The Creek’). They definitely wanted revenge from the upset loss earlier and again it was a very close match and I think this time it was a little bit of home course advantage that helped us secure that victory and would eventually lead us to our league title.

A big shout out to the entire Aptos golf team, every one of them is a class act and a lot of fun to hang out with on the golf course.

How much time do the team members spend at the golf course? Do they have a favorite course? Or courses?

This is our 2nd year as a coaching staff with almost all the same coaches and players and I believe our dedication to the short game during the preseason, spending a lot of time greenside working on pitching, chipping and putting has really helped these players lower their scores. The addition of seniors Wyatt McCabe and Connor Scarborough this year have also helped lower our overall team scores.

Delaveaga Golf Course has been gracious enough to share their practice facilities with us and so we were out there Monday–Thursday as much as possible and all pre-season.

I think another reason we’ve been successful is they have fun with each other and even though we don’t practice Friday–Sunday you can usually find our team all over the Bay Area using their Youth on Course to play all kinds of different courses.

They joke around with each other and that playful banter allows much needed laughs and an element of light-heartedness into a sport which can be heavy and serious at times.

Can you talk about the individual players?

James Dahlen, our quiet captain, is a returning junior who helped lead this team to a 3rd place finish last year and now to our 1st ever league title. A dog of a competitor. Treats his opponents with respect while he crushes them on the course with his effortless southpaw swing and low scores. Makes his teammates better, always lifting them up. I am very proud of him as both his coach and his father.

Keenan Buntz, Mr. Steady, another returning Junior, is our rock. He is calm, long and calculated on the golf course

and deadly around the green. With his endlessly positive attitude, he is a perfect combination for the game of golf. Like James, we can always count on him to go low and he let his golf do the talking especially in the 2nd half of this season, which saw him take several match medalist honors on our way to some big league wins.

Wyatt McCabe, Clutch Mikey or The Bulldog, a senior and new to golf this year, was the best Christmas present a golf coach could ask for. Committed, determined and with an unparalleled work ethic, he’s the first to show up and the last to leave practice. Wyatt had some clutch performances this year and was a huge reason we upset Aptos at Seascape and won the league title. I only wish we had him for another year!

Connor Scarborough, The Competitor, a senior that we nabbed off the baseball team, is a natural talent and hates to lose. He was an instant team leader and another huge part of lowering our overall team scores this year leading to our title. Gonna miss Connor’s passion for the game and never-lose mentality next year!

Luke Fontinell, Mr. Smooth aka The Big Easy, is another returning junior, has taken a huge step forward this year, easily our most improved golfer and is one of the purest ball strikers we coaches have ever seen. He has continued to get better and better with each match. If Luke is locked in, we’re a tough team to beat.

Mason Atkinson, what can I say, everyone loves Mason aka Mr. Tempo Town. Mason is a true team player and great teammate, I could pair him with anyone. He works his butt off at practice and has come a long way this year with his silkysmooth controlled swing. He is playing confident and smart golf right now and what a perfect time to be doing so as we head into our League playoffs and the CCS tournament.

Got to give a lot of credit to our JV team as they have been out there grinding all year alongside the varsity players going 3-1 in their matches!

Does the team go to the CCS playoffs? YES! We accomplished our day-one goal of making CCS for the May 7 tournament at Laguna Seca Golf Ranch!

I’m really proud of what these boys have accomplished for the school, for all the past SLV golfers and for themselves. Not only are they playing at a high level right now, but they are playing as a team and really seem to be having fun doing it. It’s really cool to watch.

We achieved our goal and so much more. n

Cover Photo (from left): Coach Luke Dahlen, Keenan Buntz, Wyatt McCabe, James Dahlen, Connor Scar-borough, Luke Fontinell and Coach Phillip D’Andrea

Michael Oppenheimer, Camisa Composti

Michael Oppenheimer website photography

Scotts Valley’s Olympic Athlete: Dominique Parrish

By Jondi Gumz

Dominique Parrish, who was introduced to wrestling in her hometown of Scotts Valley, will represent Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Parrish, 27, qualified on April 20 to represent the U.S. in women’s wrestling at 53 kg.

At the 2024 Olympic Team Trials at Penn State, Parrish defeated Haley Augello, 29, of Lockport, Illinois, who competed at the 2016 Summer Olympics, avoiding takedowns and winning both matches.

“It feels really, really good,” Parrish said. “This is what I’ve been working for, for so long.”

Her sister and her boyfriend were on hand to see her qualify.

Last November, she wanted a change and switched her training to Oregon to work with Nate Engel, a two-time U.S. National Team member, who she said ”is always down to wrestle.”

One inspiration: Helen Maroulis, who won gold in wrestling in the 2016

Rio Olympics. Maroulis, like Parrish, is a graduate of Simon Fraser University.

The Paris Olympics start Friday, July 26, and close Sunday, Aug. 11.

Parrish went to the Toyoko Olympics as a member of the training team, but this will be her first chance to compete at the Olympics.

She’s had a stellar career, winning a gold medal in the 2022 Senior World Championships, winning gold at the Pan American Championships, and champion at the U.S. Open.

As a student at Scotts Valley High School, where her father, Mike Parrish, was her coach, she was twice California high school state champion.

At Simon Fraser University in British Columbia, Canada, she was Women’s Collegiate Wrestling Association’s national champion twice and a four-time All-American.

And it all started when she was signed up in sixth grade for a wrestling demonstration.

Next, her photo could be on a poster. n

New Approaches to Homelessness are Needed State Shift Led to Fewer Mental Health Hospitalizations

By Michael Fitzgerald

On April 22, the Supreme Court heard arguments and will eventually support or overrule the landmark decision by the 9th Circuit Court (Martin v. Boise), which prevents cities from enforcing some laws that bar homelessness.

In interpretating the 8th amendment prohibiting cruel and unusual punishment, Martin v. Boise requires communities to provide adequate shelters to meet the needs of the homeless or allow them to live in public spaces. The acknowledged goal of the City of Grants Pass, Oregon, which brought the suit, is to force the homeless to go elsewhere.

Many cities (especially in the West) can sympathize. Many parks built with tax dollars for families to use are now places families avoid. Drug use is rampant, mentally ill adults are untreated and unhoused, and property values are downgraded. A vicious cycle emerges when downtowns are avoided by citizens with money to spend —

causing greater degradation of communities and impacting city finances.

Encampments, in particular, have exhausted the community’s patience. Encampments are full of stolen items (notably bikes), have black market sales, drug use and drug sales, violence, and where many able-bodied people take full advantage while free food is delivered by well-meaning people and no rent is collected.

While there are no “magic bullets,” there are interventions that would help in the struggle against homelessness:

1) Think Upstream.

Studies reveal that broken homes, abusive homes, foster care, inadequate family resources, school dropout, early criminal behavior, early drug/alcohol use and signs of emotional instability or other mental health symptoms are all risk factors for homelessness.

Early interventions for young people would certainly save in the downstream costs of incarcerations, impact on the communities and law enforcement caused by a homeless population. Best practices include mentorship, job training with residence as needed, increased support for education retention, family support including childcare for struggling families, targeted improvements in foster care, spiritual support, dialectical behavioral therapy and other interventions specifically aimed for young people at risk.

Criminal justice interventions must be tailored to the individual; punishment models may be required for some but can make the situation far worse for others. We must prevent young people from acculturating to homelessness, where their support is with others who are in that situation (including criminals).

If the only acceptance they can find is with others on the street, it is less likely they will extradite easily from a lifestyle that often includes shoplifting, drug use and property crimes.

2) Mental Health Treatment.

Everybody seems to agree more funding is needed for mental health treatment, but there are very few beds dedicated to this and in fact far fewer than in the past. Grants Pass, population 39,0000, has no inpatient psychiatric beds, Santa Cruz County population 264,000 has only 16 (there used to be far more).

The reason is funding: In the early 1990s, California re-aligned and capitated funding to the counties, making them responsible for managing these dollars. The result was a major reduction in hospitalizations.

Not because people didn’t need it, but because the counties refused to fund it.

“New Approach” page 8

COMMUNITY NEWS

Auditor: California Not Tracking State Spending on Homeless

On April 9, California State Auditor

Grant Parks wrote to Gov. Gavin Newsom and legislative leaders, chastising the state Interagency Council on Homelessness, 18 members, mostly appointed by the governor, for not tracking spending on programs to end homeless.

The state auditor found two effective programs, Homekey projects, with an average cost per unit of $144,000, compared to the average cost per unit of affordable housing of $380,000-$570,000, and CalWorks Housing Support, spending $12,000–$22,000 per household per year, compared to the estimated cost to taxpayers of one person chronically homeless, $30,000–$50,000 per year.

California spent $9.4 billion since 2020 on three programs, the Rental Assistance Program, Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention Program and Encampment Resolution Program Funding, but the council had not collected enough data to measure cost-effectiveness.

Here is the auditor’s letter:

The Joint Legislative Audit Committee requested an audit of the State’s homelessness funding, including an evaluation of

the efforts undertaken by the State and two cities to monitor the costeffectiveness of such spending.

The following report (2023102.1) focuses primarily on the State’s activities, in particular the California Interagency Council on Homelessness (Cal ICH)—while a separate report (2023102.2) details our findings and conclusions for the two cities we reviewed— San José and San Diego. In general, this report concludes that the State must do more to assess the cost-effectiveness of its homelessness programs.

The State lacks current information on the ongoing costs and outcomes of its homelessness programs, because Cal ICH has not consistently tracked and evaluated the State’s efforts to prevent and end homelessness.

Although Cal ICH reported in 2023 financial information covering fiscal years 2018–19 through 2020–21 related to all statefunded homelessness programs, it has not continued to track and report this data since that time, despite the significant amount of additional funding the State awarded to these efforts in the past two years.

“State Spending” page 8

Michael Fitzgerald

Multicultural Fair

The third annual Scotts Valley Multicultural Fair will be Saturday, May 4, from 10:30 am - 3:30 pm at Skypark.

There will be live music, dance performances, fashion, art and food.

The Scotts Valley Multicultural Fair is a free community celebration aimed at

broadening our understanding and appreciation for multiculturalism and diversity. Through various activities and experiences, organizers hope to build community connection with the unique cultures and traditions present in Scotts Valley and the surrounding areas.

The event is all about building COMMUNITY and is for ALL. This year’s event theme is festivals celebrated around the world and it is sure to be a joy-filled day! n Visit https://www.scottsvalleymcf.com/ for more info.

IN MEMORIAM

Coach Rich Hager: Celebration of Life May 18

Acelebration of life for Rich Hager, the Scotts Valley High School golf coach, will be 3-5 p.m. Saturday, May 18, at DeLaveaga Golf Course in Santa Cruz.

He died March 6 unexpectedly after a short illness.

He was 87.

He was born on Feb. 21, 1937, in Butte, Montana to Harley and Lillian Hager but spent his childhood in Missouri. In 1949, Rich, his parents and older brother Ron moved to Santa Cruz, and Rich and Ron thought they had “died and gone to Heaven.”

Rich attended Mission Hill Junior High and graduated from Santa Cruz High School Class of 1955, an outstanding athlete in football and baseball. He and Judy Caldwell, Class of 1956,

became high school sweethearts. They were married for 66 years.

He attended Fresno State for two years but then joined the Army in lieu of being drafted. After completing his tour of duty in Germany, he was honorably discharged and returned to college.

In 1972, Rich and Judy and their young family moved from Santa Clara to Scotts Valley. After several years as a business owner of a small company, he joined PG&E General Construction and retired from PG&E in 2005.

Through his children, Rich became actively involved in coaching the young athletes of Scotts Valley. For many years, he coached football and baseball. For the past 20-plus years, he was the Varsity Head Golf coach at Scotts Valley High School, where he is in the SVHS Hall of Fame. He was working on this year’s roster two days before he was hospitalized.

“Coach” was much loved and respected by his teams, past and present, and will be greatly missed.

Although coaching was his passion and his legacy, his family was his greatest love and pride. He is survived by his wife Judy, the love of his life , and his four children, Stacey Lake (John), Todd Hager (Tara), Julie Robertson (Alex), Mark Hager (Rachel), eight grandchildren, Christopher (Yvonne), Clark, Malakai, Skylor, Lukas and Sitara Hager, Mitchell (Katrina), and Kelly Lake; five greatgrandchildren Harley, Olivette, Pierce Hager, Joshua and Gemma Lake; three nephews, Ron (Audrey), Troy, Kyle Hager and many extended family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Scotts Valley High School Falcons Club for the Varsity Golf Program. n

Rich Hager

May 6-12

COMMUNITY NEWS

Treat yourself from head to toe. Including sale items!

Santa Cruz County Cycling Club Invites You to the Newest Ride

The Santa Cruz County Cycling Club has added a new ride on Sundays to encourage new riders. The D ride is

“State Spending” from page 6

Cal ICH has also not aligned its action plan to end homelessness with its statutory goals to collect financial information and ensure accountability and results. Thus, it lacks assurance that the actions it takes will effectively enable it to achieve those goals.

Another significant gap in the State’s ability to assess programs’ effectiveness is that it does not have a consistent method for gathering information on the costs and outcomes for individual programs.

We also reviewed five state-funded

“New Approach” from page 6

Criteria for hospitalization (while legally the same) greatly shifted because of this. Patients are now immediately released who would in the past be immediately hospitalized and kept until they were improved, on an involuntary basis if need be. The idea of shifting funding to a so-called “rehab model” borders on stupidity when very ill individuals are not stabilized to participate in that model.

By creating financial incentives for hospital care and follow-up for the most ill (as it used to be), counties will again treat rather than street.

3) Assessment and Response.

There is a tendency to label the homeless as a homogenous group, but this is inaccurate. Not all of those in encampments are abled-bodied and criminal: many are those who are truly willing to participate as best

intended for those who have some bike skills but lack the stamina needed for the more strenuous A, B, and C club rides.

These rides take place in South County as well as Mid County and North County.

“One of our starting locations is Aptos Village next to Penny Ice Creamery, in the plaza,” said Kathleen Ferraro, a member. “We also have rides meeting at the Capitola Community Center on Jade Street as well as a few spots in Watsonville. Our website gives the start for each ride. We do our best to move it around so all our riders don’t always have to travel far.”

Rides are typically between 10-15 miles and 1,000’ or less of elevation gain. Average pace is generally 8-10 mph on the flats. There will be regroup and food/beverage stops.

The D group is no-drop. This is a ride where no one gets left behind should a rider not be able to hold the pace or if they have a

homelessness programs to assess their costeffectiveness. After comparing reported costs and outcomes to alternative possible courses of action, we determined that the Department of Housing and Community Development’s Homekey program and the California Department of Social Services’ CalWORKs Housing Support Program appear to be costeffective. However, we were unable to assess the costeffectiveness of three other programs we reviewed because the State has not collected sufficient data on the outcomes of these programs. Among the recommendations we make is that the Legislature mandate reporting by state agencies on the costs and

they can if only they could receive the right assistance.

For this reason, every person who is homeless and receiving services should receive a full assessment including needs, background/criminal check, functional skills, strengths, and goals, so that help provided is targeted accordingly. Separation of the populations in this way provides cohorts of support and better matching of services with needs.

Communities are more likely to support assistance to those who are homeless due to economic changes, and physical or mental health needs.

4) Housing.

The concept of “housing first” has merit, but it is equally true that you can’t simply put anybody homeless into a residence and expect to fix the problem. Housing must be tailored to the individual, and more options available.

mechanical or flat tire. These are great rides to start with as they are more conducive to learning how to safely ride in a group.

However, all riders must always plan to be self-sufficient.

You do not need to be a club member to join a ride.

With the arrival of spring, and sunny weather, the Santa Cruz County Cycling Club offers various rides for cyclists that start around the county and include ride distances of 25 - 50 miles with elevation gain.

The Santa Cruz County Cycling Club encourage healthy lifestyles through education, friendship, teamwork and fun.

Ride coordinators Paula Bradley, Ron Wolf and Mike Hale, and rides director Toby Ferguson, who has entered all the rides in the Ride With GPS app online at www.santacruzcycling.org, were chosen the Members of the Year for 2023.

“Cycling Club” page 10

outcomes of their homelessness programs and that it require Cal ICH to compile and publicly report this information. Members of the California Interagency Council on Homelessness: Tomiquia Moss • Mark Ghaly • Tomás Aragón • Michelle Baass • Stephanie Clendenin • Su-san DeMarois • Kim Johnson • Tiena Johnson Hall • Veronica Lewis • Jeffrey Macomber • William McGee • Rebecca Ruan-O’Shaughnessy • Lindsey Sin • Tony Tavares • Gustavo F. Velasquez • Nancy Ward • Marina Wiant • Joe Xavier n

To read his report, see https://information. auditor.ca.gov/reports/2023-102.1/index.html

For example, many communities (including pre-earthquake Santa Cruz) had single-room occupancy hotels with a kitchen and bathroom down the hall. These places no longer exist, and by losing them we lost a key prevention of homelessness.

It is possible to re-create these settings in specific areas that have co-located services and are part of a general plan.

I applaud local governments, agencies and especially those working directly with the homeless for the improvements seen in the city and county of Santa Cruz. Some things are working. But the problem of homelessness in our country continues to worsen, and new approaches are needed. n •••

Michael Fitzgerald is a mental health professional living in Ben Lomond. He worked for 18 years at El Camino Hospital, as director of behavioral health and then executive director.

Photo Credit: Kathleen Ferraro

A recent club ride

Youth Environmental Summit: Goal to Inspire Change

Students from Scotts Valley and SLV Participate

By Sylvi Kayser

On April 22, studentled leadership group Youth for Environmental Action hosted their fourth annual Summit to focus on environmental justice and sustainability catered to youth by youth.

The Summit, titled Earth Day Every Day: Our Environment is Up to Us, attracted 250 attendees from Santa Cruz County. Students were introduced to guest speakers from National Geographic, speakers on school food systems, a community fair of local environmentally conscious organizations, and school district collaboration.

Students were asked their concerns for the environment as well as goals for their school.

Mason Lepold of San Lorenzo Valley High mentioned sustainable clean water being a top priority.

“I’m in an agriculture class and we’ve been talking about how complex California’s water system is,” Lepold said, hoping to find more sustainable ways to get water locally.

This cry for local sustainability was a recurring theme, with Michael Shatraw from

Soquel focusing on monitoring campfires to prevent the spread of flames.

Aptos High student Sylvi Kayser and Delta student Sion Erkiletian, both YEA leaders, discussed socioeconomic issues that come with sustainable items.

“It really goes back to the lack of government subsidization of organic food especially, with such a big price difference,” said Kayser.

“Youth Summit” page 18

YEA leaders, from left, Tess Reedy, Natasha Gunion, Sophia Lettiere with panel speakers (from left) Adam Bolaños Scow, Alisia Munoz-Roja, Jakki Castorena-Davila

YEA leaders Nola Salazar and Samaira Gupta.

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Wishes for Mom on Mother’s Day

By Robert Scott, the Inquiring Photographer

Robert Scott, a student at Cabrillo College in Aptos, asked this question on campus: What do you wish for your mom on Mother’s Day?

Owen Ghigliazza, 19, Santa Cruz: “I hope she can reallytakeaminute, take a whole day to relax, longer. I just hope I’m able to return the favor and be there for her.”

Lawson, 21, Prunedale: “I wish for you to find fulfillment, joy, and happiness every single day; and for you to get that adventure vehicle you want and go travel the world.”

Taylor Cannon, 26, Santa Cruz: “Peace of mind, I wish her good health and I hope that she knows I’m doing my best and there’s nothing to worry about and I want her to be content.”

Lucy Roberts, 16, Scotts Valley: “For Mother’s Day, I wish my mom can do what she wants, I think she deserves a bit of a break and some freedom after raising me and my two siblings.”

“Cycling Club” from page 8

The organization raises money via the Santa Cruz Mountains Challenge, which was very successful last year, but no one has stepped forward to direct it this year, according to the new club president Maura Noel. The club membership fee has been raised to $40 a year. n

Kaeli Roessler, 20, Live Oak: “Just happiness if that’s not too basic. Probably like a bouquet of flowers, she likes flowers.”

Serena Hernandez, 19, Freedom: “A good day, a good happy Mother’s Day.”

Esbeydi Juarez, 19, Freedom: “To have a day to rest and have a good day I guess.”

Beau Chilson, 19, Corralitos: “I’ll say a trip to Iceland, she’s always wanted to take a trip to Iceland.”

Grayson Hutchinson, 18, Aptos: “I wish that she is happy and feels emotionally fulfilled, because she has the best kids ever.” n

Do you have a question for our Inquiring Photographer? Email editor Jondi Gumz at info@cyber-times.com

To learn more and how you can join a ride or become a member visit https://scccc.clubexpress. com

Courtesy of Cindy Pierce Riding in the redwoods.

Scotts Valley Community Awards Gala May 10

Tickets Still Available

Join us on Friday, May 10th as we celebrate the leaders in our Community at Roaring Camp Railroads Bret Harte Hall. The space is a 6,000 square foot rustic barn with wrought-iron chandeliers, twinkling lights, and decorations.

Through massive doors, the indoor space opens to a covered outdoor reception area and a beautiful meadow.

The evening of celebration will begin at 5:00 pm with a cocktail hour serving appetizers and a full no-host full bar with wines from Kissed by and Angel Wines and beers on tap from Steel Bonnet Brewing.

Dinner will be catered by Bruno’s Bar & Grill. Cheryl Rebottaro will be returning again as this year’s Master of Ceremonies and Jack Crawford of Music Now will be providing DJ Services. There will be raffle items, and a brief live auction conducted by Chamber Ambassador and Auctioneer Kevin Anderson.

Tickets available at scottsvalleychamber. com.

Opportunities to showcase your business by becoming a sponsor are still available. Contact: info@scottsvalleychamber.com for more information.

Victor Alejandro

Alvin Scarborough Man of the Year

Victor is an Engineering Product Manager at Cisco. He is married, with 3 children attending or graduated from the Scotts Valley Unified School District.

He is currently the Vice President of the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, as well as a Chamber Ambassador. Before taking on the role of Vice President, he served as Treasurer.

He sits on the Scotts Valley Economic Development Committee and is a proxy attending Silicon Valley Chamber Coalition meetings, which includes 18 Chambers of Commerce in the Bay Area. He is also President of the Exchange Club of Scotts Valley, which has been serving Scotts Valley for over 50 years.

Exchange Club annual events include the $500 A.C.E. award for 2 graduating seniors overcoming various hardships to graduate, the Hitchcock Festival, the Blue & Gold Celebration of the Police and Firefighter of the Year, participation in the 4th of July Parade, Adopt a Family for Christmas, and the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony — a cooperative event hosted by the City of Scotts Valley, Scotts Valley Police, and other Service Clubs to benefit Valley Churches United. He joined with the Scotts Valley Theater

Guild and the Scotts Valley Historical Society to launch the Alfred Hitchcock Festival as the Guild’s annual fundraiser.

He recently joined the Parent Club of Scotts Valley High School and the Community Advocates of Scotts Valley. He and his wife, Angela, volunteer annually at the Fallen Officer’s Foundation. He also leads efforts in his neighborhood to embrace Firewise principles, including 2 chipping events, annually.

https://scottsvalleychamber.com/board/

June Barron

Annette Marcum Woman of the Year

une is very grateful and thankful to all those who voted for her for the amazing Woman of the Year Award. She feels blessed and honored.

JJune has resided in Scotts Valley for 25 years. She is a single Mama with two beautiful adult children, David and Julianna, whom she adores. “Growing up with diverse parents of different cultures, I learned acceptance of all people early in life”, says June

June says that her passion is to “serve the Lord with acts of kindness”.

She gets great pleasure serving friends and people in the community. She does so selflessly and compassionately. She loves making someone’s day and putting smiles on their faces.

June says that she is humbly honored to receive this prestigious award.

She would like to give a big thank you to the Chamber of Commerce members, residents of Scotts Valley, and surrounding area.

She also expresses a very special thank you to Brand-di Palmer at The Hot Pink Box and Erin Buchla at Cruise Coffee Cafe. She is truly grateful for these two beautiful and talented women in her life.

SScotts Valley Chamber News

Scotts Valley Community Awards Gala • May 10

Steel Bonnet Brewing Company

Business of the Year

teel Bonnet Brewing Company is a community-focused craft brewery headquartered in Scotts Valley, CA. It is owned and operated by Susan and Donald Cramb.

The seeds for Steel Bonnet were first sown in Donald’s dorm room at The University of Edinburgh, Scotland, where he and his roommate first brewed beer, with the brewing buckets also serving as laundry hampers.

35 years later, the home brew spark was rekindled, and Donald started brewing again in the garage with his son. After a few years, the idea germinated that maybe they could turn this into a real business, and Steel Bonnet was born.

From day one, Susan and Donald wanted the brewery and tap room to be community- and familyfocused, reminiscent of the local pub experience in their native UK, while at the same time serving delicious American and British Ales. Luckily, Susan and Donald lived in, and have long been associated with, a town and community that they believed would welcome such an endeavor, namely Scotts Valley and the nearby San Lorenzo Valley. After being open for 9 years, this belief has been fully realized. The sense of community, family, and friendship is obvious when visiting the taproom.

As part of their community efforts, Steel

Bonnet has quietly been supporting many local causes. The owners believe this is fundamental to the goals originally set out for the business and are firmly committed to continuing to do so.

Given the success of the brewery to date, Steel Bonnet has recently announced the opening of a new production facility in Salinas, CA, which will allow expansion into broader beer distribution. Their Scotts Valley location will remain at the heart of their operation, including the tap room and the brewery becoming a center for new beer development and innovation.

Scotts Valley Girls Softball Organization of the Year

Scotts Valley Girls Softball’s mission is to teach integrity, commitment, and teamwork to players of all age groups, while developing fundamental softball mechanics, improving player knowledge of the game, and modeling good sportsmanship. Their program provides a foundation of experience that will prepare each athlete to strive for excellence on and off the field.

In 1992, Kelly Weaver took the helm of the Scotts Valley Girls Softball program, building on a foundation established by Michelle Wenger in 1984 and carried on by Berna Bruzzone and Debbie Zanotto. Hailing from Santa Cruz, California, and after coaching at Mission Hill Junior High and Santa Cruz Parks & Rec at just the age of 18, Kelly Weaver’s passion for softball ignited in the vibrant community of Scotts Valley.

Under Weaver’s dedicated leadership, the Scotts Valley Girls Softball program has flourished. The average enrollment each year

is between 150 – 200 girls, fielding a robust 25 teams. Her commitment to excellence extended beyond the local league; in 1997, Scotts Valley Girls Softball formed the Scotts Valley Trouble Travel Ball team (the brainchild of Jerry Lewis), fostering a competitive spirit and providing talented players with opportunities to shine on a broader stage.

Kelly understands that building a successful program is a team effort and is thankful to a supporting cast of others including her Husband Mike, Ed Poston, Maria Gauthier, Dave & Liz Payne, Jeff Liebenberg, the late Jody Jones, and a host of other volunteers. Her unwavering dedication and collaborative spirit have been instrumental in shaping the rich girls’ softball tradition in Scotts Valley.

Her commitment to teaching TEAM (Together Everyone Achieves More) and building strong athletic young girls is a game changer.

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SCOTTS VALLEY WATER

MAKES THE GRADE

To view and download the 2023 SVWD Water Quality Report, visit www.svwd.org/media/Reports/CCR2023.pdf. For questions or to receive a hard copy of the report, call (831)438-2363

Scotts Valley Community Awards Gala • May 10

Christie Danner Educator of the Year

Christie Danner, originally from the East Coast, relocated to California, completing her middle and high school education in Santa Cruz. She pursued her undergraduate degree in Sociology at UCSB, later augmenting her academic journey with a master’s degree in education and counseling from SJSU. Subsequently, she furthered her qualifications with an administrative credential.

Christie has cultivated a diverse career in education, spanning roles from higher education to K-12. For over a decade, Christie served as a professional School Counselor at Scotts Valley High School, offering support to students navigating diverse challenges.

Transitioning to the assistant principal role two years ago, her leadership has been distinguished by a visionary commitment to nurturing inclusive, supportive environments conducive to student growth and teacher well-being, ensuring a positive and healthy atmosphere for all.

Her leadership ethos is underpinned by a profound dedication to service and positive transformation. Through her actions, she exhibits genuine empathy and responsiveness to the needs of students, educators, and the broader community.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Christie finds joy in her family life. She is happily married with three grown children, who inspire her dedication to education and community service.

KKavin Pugazhenthi Youth of the Year

avin Pugazhenthi is a senior at Scotts Valley High School. He is a performer with the drama department and is performing in and directing the current spring musical.

He moved to Scotts Valley at the age of 9 in 2015 and has changed a lot over the last nine years. He went to Vine Hill Elementary and then Scotts Valley Middle. Over the last few years, he has participated in Mock Trial, Haunted House, and Theater.

He is also a third degree black belt. He’s the president of SVHS’s improv club, Daddy’s Little Meatballs. He loves collaborating with people to create art and comedy.

Kavin used to be particularly quiet and reserved. He’d like people to know that it’s never too late to try stepping out of your comfort zone and try new things. He plans to attend UCSC this fall and hopes to keep performing through his life.

Scotts Valley Chamber News

Member Spotlight: Star One Credit Union

Star One Credit Union opened its doors to serve members in the Bay Area in 1956 and is now a full-service financial institution with assets exceeding $10.1 billion and more than 126,000 members.

Star One is a member-owned financial institution focused on providing long-term financial solutions to all of its members.

As a result, they are able to return profits back to members in the form of money-saving benefits, including higher interest on savings accounts, lower interest rates on loans and mortgages, and low fees on products and services like checking, credit cards, and real-estate loans.

Star One’s mission is to improve each member’s life by delivering valuable financial services. By focusing on this mission, Star One consistently ranks at or near the bottom for fee income generation when compared to other financial institutions, and for the last 10 years, Star One has been ranked as the top credit union in the entire nation by America’s Credit Unions for providing the highest level of financial benefit to its members.

At Star One, everything they do is in the members’ best interest, and they want you to discover how you could benefit by banking with them. Visit starone.org and click on Open Your Account to learn more or to become a Star One member.

Scotts Valley Community Awards Gala • May 10

Keira Mulder

Chamber Ambassador of the Year

Keira has been a Chamber Ambassador since 2019 and is currently serving as ambassador President as well as Secretary on Board of Directors. As an integral member of the team, she balances a full-time work schedule while chasing a very-active 4-year-old. Even while juggling these critical responsibilities and now holding dual roles, her enthusiasm has never wavered.

Throughout her almost 5-years of service, Keira has volunteered her time and co-chaired events for the Chamber such as The Scotts Valley Community Awards & Gala (2020-2023), Cops ‘N Rodders Car Show (2021-2023), and Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival (2021-2023). In addition to those events, Keira has also been an Ambassador volunteer or organizer for ribbon cuttings and mixers for businesses in the area.

When asked about the future, Keira was

quick with an answer. “As an Ambassador, one of the things I have loved is serving our local businesses and promoting awareness to help them grow and prosper. In my dual role as Board Member and Ambassador President, I am excited to craft innovative ways of building business and community relationships. Our residents and business owners love each other, and the joint effort both sides bring to keep this city vibrant and flourishing energizes me to make Scotts Valley the best city in the world!”

Keira is just as passionate about her position as an Operations Manager at EVCharge4U Inc, a Bay Area electrical contractor specializing in electric vehicle charging solutions for residential, multi-family, business and commercial customers. EVCharge4U’s service area reaches into our community and beyond, focusing on helping people make sustainable choices when it comes to powering their vehicles and homes. In her down time, Keira enjoys spending time at home in Ben Lomond with her husband Ryan and daughter Grace.

Short-Term Goals, Long-Term

Unsung Heroes: Eternally Grateful

By Randy Johnson, Mayor, City of Scotts Valley

Tis the season. Well, not really that one. The holiday season comes a bit later this year. But if you look around, you’ll notice this spring that organizations and people throughout the county are being honored and celebrated for their volunteer work. The list and variety and scope are impressive. Amazing in fact.

My parents were volunteers during World War II. My mom was English and after the blitz, she signed up for the Land Army, doing much of the farming and field work to replace the men who were off to war. My father lied about his age and at 15 1/2 enlisted into the Royal Canadian Air Force as a pilot. He was too young to fly in the Battle of Britain, but later flew over 80 sorties in Spitfires and Hawker Hurricanes. Winston Churchill later made the notable quotation about those men: “Never was so much owed by so many to so few.” I feel the same way about those who selflessly serve our communities.

The City of Scotts Valley is not a volunteer organization, although a quick survey of the various departments, it would seem that they routinely do more with less than

you can possibly imagine. Our public works, with a maintenance staff of about 3, services our fields, roads, buildings and more. Finance has about 2 people. Planning has the same and just completed our Housing Element, an amazing accomplishment, and submitted it to the state, where it was certified. Our police department responds to over 12,000 calls for service each year and does so often with a shortage of personnel.

I think what prompted me to reflect on those who step forward and serve was the annual recognition dinner our police department does for its reserves and volunteers. Honored were those of all ages who help with traffic control, emergencies, special events, dispatch, weapons cleaning and more. Perhaps the most poignant presentation was to retired chaplain Fred Wilson, who provides comfort and support, even to those officers who have to deliver the news with a door-knock none of us ever want to hear.

But of course it does not end there. If you take a minute to survey the Volunteer Center and its “Be the Difference Awards,” you will get a sense of the scope of how much

behind-the-scenes work goes into rounding out or communities. (Who knew there was an Equine Healing Collaborative?) Just in Scotts Valley, Councilmember Donna Lind leads the effort for the “Fallen Officer” event each year; Vice Mayor Derek Timm led the Educational Foundation for many years; Jack Dilles is a member of one of the many service clubs that do so much for our community; I was honored to coach over 20 different basketball and baseball teams. And virtually everyone I know has donated their efforts in the same way. Our own Chamber next month is going to celebrate the contributions of businesses and individuals who have gone above and beyond.

Throw in all the silent auctions, fundraising golf tournaments, sip-and-shops, book sales, bingo cards, crowd funding and bake sales and you get an idea of how, collectively, volunteers are very much the altruistic glue that hold communities together. It just never stops and for that we are eternally in their debt. Thank you. n

Randy Johnson is mayor of Scotts Valley. Email him at rlj12@comcast.net.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Volunteer Center to Recognize Community Service Stars

The Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County will present Be the Difference awards to 33 individuals and organizations on Wednesday, May 8, from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at the Boardwalk’s Cocoanut Grove Ballroom.

Here is the list of honorees: Arts & Culture

David Lyng Real Estate, Capitola

Sue Dormanen of Soquel, Santa Cruz

Shakespeare

Pat McVeigh, Habitat for Humanity

Judy Stabile, Pajaro Valley Arts Building Community

100+ Women Who Care

Crew Point Logistics LLC

Erica Chapin, Volunteer Center’s disaster response team

Terri Fisher, Santa Cruz Hostel

Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay

“Golden Hammer Crew”

Gerry Jensen, Capitola advocate and activist

Nancy Murray, Santa Cruz County

Mounted Posse

Santa Cruz Elks Lodge

Environmental Stewardship & Sustainability

Ecology Action Bike Repair Program

Geoff Alexander, Soquel, Advocates for the Forest of Nisene Marks

Nicola Wagner , Homeless Garden

Project

Suzanne MacLean, Homeless Garden Project

Dean Spieller, Homeless Garden Project

Tom and Libby Purdy, Ben Lomond, Wilder Ranch State Park Docents

Families & Youth

Cradle to Career Santa Cruz County

Daryl Wise, Shared Adventures volunteer

Debbie Falconer, Santa Cruz SPCA

Dora Gonzalez, CASA Court Appointed Special Advocates

Natalie Martinez, Watsonville community volunteer

Health & Wellness

Gardenia Amor Y Bienestar Para La Mujer

Teen Kitchen Project Delivery Angels, Soquel

Gary Bencomo, Dientes dental and nonprofit champion

Gerri Ashton, Hospice of Santa Cruz County

Jennifer Fenton, The Equine Healing Collaborative

Social & Economic Justice

The Santa Cruz Welcoming Network

Dennis Cavaille, Felton, tutor with the Volunteer Center Literacy Program

MaryJo Van Verth, Aptos, Team Just Us

Sister Rosa Dolores Rodriguez, Casa de la Cultura, Pajaro

Chaplain Fred Wilson (left) with Scotts Valley Police Chief Steve Walpole

COMMUNITY NEWS

EPA Limits Forever Chemicals in Drinking Water

By Jondi Gumz

On April 10, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued the first national and legally enforceable drinking water standard to protect communities from exposure to harmful per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals.”

Exposure to PFAS has been linked to deadly cancers, impacts to the liver and heart, and immune and developmental damage to infants and children, according to the EPA.

For PFOA and PFOS, EPA is setting a Maximum Contaminant Level Goal, a non-enforceable health-based goal, at zero. This reflects the latest science showing there is no level of exposure to these contaminants without risk of health impacts, including certain cancers.

EPA is setting enforceable Maximum Contaminant Levels at 4.0 parts per trillion for PFOA and PFOS, individually. This standard will reduce exposure from these PFAS in drinking water to the lowest levels that are feasible for effective implementation.

For PFNA, PFHxS, and “GenX Chemicals,” EPA is setting the Maximum Contaminant Level Goals and Maximum Contaminant Levels at 10 parts per trillion.

EPA also announced $945,700,000 for states and territories for detecting, treating, and mitigating PFAS and emerging contaminants in drinking water. California was allotted $82,961,000.

FDA, USDA, FAA, departments of Defense, Homeland Security, and Health and Human Services to combat PFAS pollution.

Among those actions: A phaseout of PFAS in food wrappers, an inventory of PFAS in firefighting foams and research on alternatives, and funding a study by the University of Arizona on firefighter exposure to PFAS and health impacts.

At that time, 29 PFAS forever chemicals had been found in the nation’s water systems.

Spurring this effort was the 2017 discovery that the Cape Fear River, the drinking water source for 1 million people around Fayetteville, North Carolina, was heavily contaminated with PFAS pollution from a nearby manufacturing facility.

EPA Administrator Michael Regan said, “Drinking water contaminated with PFAS has plagued communities across this country for too long.”

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper said, “We asked for this because we know science-based standards for PFAS and other compounds are desperately needed.”

On April 19, the EPA designated PFOA and PFOS hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, known as Superfund, with the goal for polluters to pay to clean up their contamination.

impacts in adults, and immune and developmental impacts to infants and children.

This final rule aims to prevent thousands of premature deaths, tens of thousands of serious illnesses, including certain cancers and liver and heart

This rule represents the most significant step under EPA’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap released in October 2021 and President Biden’s action plan assigning the EPA, FEMA,

Emily Donovan, co-founder of Clean Cape Fear, said, “We learned about GenX and other PFAS in our tap water six years ago. I raised my children on this water and watched loved ones suffer from rare or recurrent cancers. No one should ever worry if their tap water will make them sick or give them cancer. I’m grateful the Biden EPA heard our pleas and kept its promise to the American people. We will keep fighting until all exposures to PFAS end and the chemical companies responsible for business-related human rights abuses are held fully accountable.”

“Forever Chemicals” page 23

Insurance Chief Proposes Reform: Consumer Watchdog says Transparency Needed

Carmen Balber, executive director of the nonprofit Consumer Watchdog, is not impressed by California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara’s reform proposals for setting insurance rates. He proposed to allow use of catastrophe models for fire and flood; currently that is allowed only for earthquakes and fire after earthquakes.

Consumer Watchdog’s view: “Black box catastrophe models are notoriously contradictory and unreliable, which is why public review and transparency are key before insurance companies are allowed to use them to raise rates. Commissioner Lara’s proposed rule appears drafted to limit the information available to the public about the impact of models on rates in violation of Proposition 103.”

Balber added, “The rule fails to spell out whether or how the Department of Insurance would assess a model’s bias, accuracy, or the validity of the science, instead creating a pre-review process that appears primarily focused on determining what information companies must disclose and what they may conceal from public view.”

The rule proposes use of non-disclosure agreements to meet confidentiality demands.

Balber pointed out, “If a nondisclosure agreement prevents public interest organizations from sharing their analysis of a model with the public, public participation in a review is meaningless.”

She noted the rule proposes to allow

allowing the Commissioner, at his discretion, to approve use of catastrophe models in any line of insurance.

“That could mean auto, non-wildfire residential or commercial, cyber insurance and more,” she said. “It would also allow insurers to use models to predict all losses, not just catastrophe losses, a dramatic departure from current practice and one that would guarantee an explosion of rates.”

In her view, “California needs a public catastrophe model to ensure climate data is transparent and to prevent insurance price-gouging and bias.”

Amy Bach, executive director of United Policyholders, a nonprofit dedicated to getting homeowners resources and information to get insured, said

homeowners may have to consider insurers they have never heard of.

She sees “paranoia” by insurers worried about the drought, dead trees, high value homes destroyed, cost of materials and labor to rebuild.

She thinks the state is doing everything it can while private sector businesses are doing what they think is necessary.

For homeowners who have lost their insurance, Bach recommends finding a good agent to locate a new policy.

She’s also an advocate of creating defensible space around a home even though homeowners aren’t getting the discounts from insurance companies for doing that work. n

Resources: ConsumerWatchdog.org and uphelp.org

Taurus: Beauty, Bible, Egypt, Moses & the Ten Commandments

Esoteric Astrology • May 2024

“Youth Summit” from page 9

Taurus. the second sign of the zodiac (Aries, Taurus), where beauty and stability are significant, is the sign that rules the neck, throat and shoulders. Famous singers are often Taurus people. Taurus is fixed earth (each sign works with an element) sign and this is both the purpose behind and reason for how they value possessions, resources, money and land. Their spiritual purpose is to maintain as much in form as possible so that seven generations into the future can be well taken care of. The symbol for Taurus is a bull or calf, a celestial spiritual animal. Bulls are serene, seeking sweet grass in wide meadows. Taurus flows through Venus, planet of beauty and love, values and money. Many consider Taurus to be stubborn (like a bull). But being stubborn is not the reality. Taurus must think deeply about matters before making decisions and this often is interpreted, thought of, judged and seen as being stubborn. Their hesitancy and saying “no” means “Give me time to think things through, to adjust my previous thoughts, to adapt to t new reality.”

By Risa D’Angeles

and were enslaved in Egypt. When the Age of Taurus was over (ages last 2,500 years) the Hebrew people, led by Moses (an Initiate), were taken out of Egypt. They were walking from the end of the Taurus Age to the beginning of the Aries Age. This “walk” or journey took forty years. The desert sojourn was a time of purification which allowed their identity as slaves to fall away.

Ancient Egypt and the Age of Taurus. In the Bible we find a story about the Age of Taurus. It signified the time the Hebrew people lived

ARIES

Jupiter, the heart of Aquarius, calls you to leadership in the creation of the new culture and civilization. This great god provides you with courage, inimitable daring and mental audacity to see far into the future and adapt and reorient your professional talents for the progress of humanity. You will resist being overbearing and arrogant, opposing virtues of a good leader. You will travel and your gifts will be recognized.

TAURUS

Through study, possible travel, and involvement with many different occult and historic, artistic and philosophical studies, you learn how different countries are meeting the needs of their people. You adapt them to the need of the country you live in. It is natural that previously held beliefs and possible prejudices cease as perspectives expand and knowledge leads to wisdom. You will then bring needed change to your community. Think soil, food, fish, algae, biodynamics and building with nature.

GEMINI

We must always begin with ourselves before offering change to the world. In coming months, a deep psychological self-awareness unfolds that offers a deep healing to your past. This liberates your energy and creates an inner regeneration. You then will understand more deeply the suffering of humanity and apply your love/wisdom to their needs. Many benefit from your loving beneficence. You will receive and then share a spiritual inheritance.

CANCER

An inner need to help others grows more and more each day. Partnerships will be formed around the common themes of nurturing and caring those less fortunate. You are to cultivate gardens, animals, build storehouses of food, medicines, seeds, water and books for many in need may be arriving at a later date. For those who are married, attending to these tasks together enhances your original vows and promises.

While in the desert, continuing to be led by Moses, God gave to the people the Ten Commandments (Laws of the Aries Age). Moses remained on the mountain so long that his people became restless and frightened. Not knowing what to do or even if Moses would return, the people turned back to what they knew and understood, which was their religion during the Taurus Age (gold, materialism, sex, food, comforts of the flesh — appropriate during the Taurus Age) and they built a golden calf.

When Moses returned from the mountaintop with the Ten Commandments and saw the golden calf he destroyed it — for the previous age of Taurus and all that was to be learned in Taurus was to be over. (continued mid-month) n

LEO

Realizing humanity (Aquarius) is your marriage partner, you will openly and willingly seek to offer creative and artistic skills to humanity as greater and greater needs surface in the world. As your true purpose of help and healing surfaces, you cultivate and better understand your creative strength, power and might. You will work hard to achieve balance and harmony for the kingdoms (earth, animals, plants, human) summoning you. Your health is vital. Lead with both power and love.

VIRGO

More and more your true self becomes apparent, the vital essential inner beauty of self. You then become yourself, no longer dutiful or fearful and acting as expected but a new confident expression comes forth. This authentic self becomes useful to others. You are the sign of the mother who feeds the world. Your heart must be open to the world before you can attempt to nourish it. Think about food gardens — biodynamic and hydroponic. Why are they useful for the coming times?

LIBRA

As the year unfolds, as the continuing crisis also continues, humanity will seek safety, healing, peace and security, and they must be found in many different ways. It is good to consider using your resources to seek land, create community and provide a stable purposeful village, commons, center for those close to you. Your generosity toward friends will expand to include many more. Something new is soon coming into the world. It will be a shake-up. You have the ability to create and sustain comfort, solace, security — psychological gifts soon needed.

SCORPIO

Although you are considered the hermit of the zodiac, it will surprise you (and others) that in times to come you will emerge from your cave and offer the world vital and needed information. Your research into the coming times makes you more knowledgeable than most about a coming upheaval and reorientation. It’s good to study and train in survival skills. Extended travel may be necessary forging newly formed relationships. Mental confusion, questioning and fears will cease. As world need arises, you step to the forefront.

Erkiletian said sustainable products shouldn’t be more expensive, as they should be open for everyone, for each individual plays a crucial part in environmental action. For next steps, students were able to directly connect with their school administrators and staff to voice their hopes for schools.

During the student-district collaboration, students and staff were asked to create their ideal schools–including what waste management would look like, what the curriculum would entail, and what the school culture of environmental hope would be.

Attendees broke into groups based on their high schools. Districts attending included Pajaro Valley Unified, San Lorenzo Valley Unified, and Scotts Valley Unified.

SAGITTARIUS

Perhaps you are not aware of this but you have been in training on using resources carefully and wisely. In the coming times, resources we’ve placed great importance on will dwindle and new resources will gradually become available. You will be very sensitive to these new resources — how to seek, find and obtain them. Then, because your compassion is developed, you will share and disperse them judiciously, managing the new materialism with intelligence and prudence. The new materialism is the new sharing society.

CAPRICORN

You will understand a new cycle is appearing in our world and your inherent leadership, governing and democratic skills come to light. No longer hiding talents under propriety or childhood wounds, you become a resource for others in how to survive difficult challenges. You’re ahead and at the top now, providing everyone with direction in constructing the new culture and civilization. There will be many ladders to climb. You provide a creative impulse for others to follow.

AQUARIUS

Deeply spiritual and religious dimensions have begun to reveal themselves to you. Seeking to know your past lives, seeking to help heal others, these are a few of what is new thinking in your life. Aquarians will become new era ministers and healers and the new scientists will eventually prove the Soul’s existence. Empathy and dispassion grow along with keen observational abilities. You may help build the new Noah’s Ark through writing and/or publishing. Humanity will seek comfort from the future you already know of and live in. Keyword: listening.

PISCES

There is an aspiration within calling you to offer humanity a place where education, culture, knowledge and wisdom flourish. This place will be found. You will teach others to have hope, ideas, goals and wishes, all of which impact the future. You will teach the new values needed on our planet that will create the new materialism (spiritually focused goals). You will not work alone. Many will share your visions. Your communication and how you live will assist others in understanding the coming social reforms. You will build that community. It’s already in the etheric plane.

Here, all participants reviewed data from the YEA Survey on School Environmental Action, sent out the previous month. More than 1,100 responses from students and administration were received in this anonymous survey, which found 83% of students were concerned to extremely concerned for the environment and only 31% felt hopeful for the future.

These staggering figures further demonstrate the need to include youth in discussions of our world.

A majority of students felt there was no one they could voice their concerns to. Students are one of the most affected groups of climate change, yet they are often left out of these conversations.

With the summit, YEA hopes to provide an outlet where adolescents can speak their worries to the leaders of their schools.

During this discussion, there was an overwhelming wish for improved waste management, including implementing compost and recycling systems. Students want to see increased sustainability such as bulk condiments and biodegradable and/or bamboo utensils. Accessible green spaces and/or the betterment of existing ones on campus were talked about. Numerous students voiced interest in joining YEA, as well as assisting in the summit.

With the summit, the YEA team hopes to have instilled a sense of emboldenment in students to initiate change in their schools, and with it, in the community of Santa Cruz itself.

Sylvi Kayser is a sophomore at Aptos High School.

A majority of students felt there was no one they could voice their concerns to. Students are one of the most affected groups of climate change, yet they are often left out of these conversations.

County Sales Tax Hike, Hospital Bond Pass Martinez

& Bradford in Nov. 5 Runoff

ABy Jondi Gumz

ll of the votes are counted from the March 5 election in Santa Cruz County and none of the outcomes changed.

Santa Cruz County residents in the unincorporated areas such as Soquel, Aptos and Corralitos can expect to pay more sales tax starting July 1 as 54.6% of the voters approved Measure K to raise the sales tax from 9% to 9.5%.

The measure needed only 50% plus one to pass.

The County estimated it will get $5 million to $7.5 million this fiscal year and $10 million in future fiscal years. The supervisors’ budget priorities this year include $1 million for housing and essential work force retention, $1 million for Countywide homeless services, $1 million to support climate resiliency and County parks, $1 million to fund road repair and infrastructure projects, and the reminder unspecified. As of June 30, 2022, the county was liable for $403.1 million for pension benefits and $198.1 million for other retirement benefits.

Sales tax in Capitola is 9%.

In Scotts Valley and Watsonville, it’s 9.75%.

Sales tax in the City of Santa Cruz is also going up, as 61.78% of voters approved an increase from 9.25% to 9.75%.

The Pajaro Valley Health Care District’s $116 million bond to purchase the Watsonville Community Hospital property from the

out-of-town owner and upgrade the facility passed.

The district extends from Aptos to Pajaro.

In Monterey County, 1,096 voted, with 64.42% in favor – short of two-thirds needed to pass– but 14,479 in Santa Cruz County voted, with 68.55% in favor, making Measure N successful.

County Supervisor Races

In District 2, where the incumbent did not run, Capitola Mayor Kristen Brown got 5,310 votes — 32.77% — but she did not get a majority in the five-person race.

She will be in a runoff Nov. 5 with Kim De Serpa, a member of the Pajaro Valley Unified School District board, who finished second with 4,085 votes — 25.21%.

David Schwartz, Bruce Jaffe and Tony Crane got 41% of the vote, and their supporters will have to choose another candidate.

In District 1, incumbent Manu

Jobs in Santa Cruz County

Source: California Employment Development Department

Unemployment in Santa Cruz County in March was 7.4% on seasonal job gains in hospitality and construction as rain gave way to sun while retail saw losses.

Professional and business services lost 300 jobs in January and has not regained.

Jobs in Capitola include finance manager at Santa Cruz Subaru, paying $100,000 to $150,000 a year. The City of Capitola is recruiting lifeguards, paying $19.66- $22.76 per hour, and summer recreation leaders, paying $16.80-$23.63 per hour.

New Leaf Community Market is offering $17.55-$22.20 per hour for a full-time produce clerk and $18-$25 per hour for a chalk artist.

Margaritaville is offering $16 per hour for a part-time bartender.

During 2022, unemployment hovered around 3.8%, compared to 17+% in 2020, fueled

Koenig earned a second term with 9,264 votes to 8,310 for nonprofit founder Lani

Faulkner, and 104 write-ins. That’s 52.40% to 47.01%.

In District 5, where four candidates ran to succeed a retiring incumbent, no candidate got a majority.

Monica Martinez, CEO of the nonprofit Encompass, got 7,849 votes -- 46.43% – and will be in a runoff with Christopher Bradford, a software engineer, who got 3,619 votes for 21.41%.

“Voting” page 23

Fictional Mothers

Uno ____, in Mexico

Iranian monarch

Be a go-between

Kind of cuckoos

Passing mention

Dwelled

TV show “____ 911!”

*”Beloved” mother

Like a tennis skirt

Scottish kinship groups

Spare in car

Email folder

Vertical dimension

Turf alternative

Morse Code dash

Hippocratic ____

Three, to Caesar

*Margaret White’s telekinetic daughter

*Elizabeth Zott of “____ in Chemistry”

Vernacular

65. R&R hot spot

67. Capital of Vietnam 68. Yours is as good as mine?

69. Tennis retry

70. Cause anxiety (2 words) 71. Bookie’s quote 72. Well-kept secret, for some

Teatime treat

DOWN

Do like volcano

Honey home

Iris holder

Human trunk

iPad “pen”

*Matriarch, ____ Munster of “The Munsters”

*Nadezhda of “The Americans,” ____

Widely hunted ruminant

A particular legume

Not pathos

Second O in EVOO

Kinda white

Anoint

Foul substance

Matured

Bob of “The Joy of Painting” fame

Better than never?

On top of

“High” time

Cosine’s counterpart

In the past

*”Married... with Children” mom

Kristen Brown Kim De Serpa Monica Martinez Christopher Bradford

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SCOTTS VALLEY HIGH SENIOR EVENTS

Saturday May 4

Senior Prom, 6-10 pm (arrive by 4 pm)

Senior Servant Day

Friday May 10

Powder Puff game, 5:30 pm

Friday May 17-Saturday May 18

Senior Trip to Magic Mountain

IB Night

Monday May 20

Wednesday May 29

Graduation Practice and Senior Picnic (mandatory), 1 pm on the SVHS football field

Thursday May 30

Senior Breakfast (mandatory), 9-10 am in the student union

Final Graduation Practice (mandatory), 10-11am

Graduation, 4 pm on SVHS football field

Grad Night party at Dave & Buster’s

SCOTTS VALLEY HIGH MIDDLE SCHOOL

Thursday May 30

Promotion: 11 a.m.

LIBRARY ACTIVITIES

Scotts Valley Library

Third Saturdays

Great Expectations Parenting Group for Parents/Caregivers of Neurodivergent Children, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

A parenting group for caregivers raising neurodivergent individuals with behavior challenges and delays from toddlers to teens.

Sautrday May 18

“Let’s Talk About It” - Finding Common Threads Through Conversation, 1-4 p.m.

“Let’s talk About It” is modeled after similar initiatives in which participants (the public) can request to have a conversation for 30 minutes with someone who identifies in a particular way.

Presented by the Conflict Resolution Center.

Felton Library

Saturday May 11

Reel Work May Day Labor Film Festival Presents “Being 80” (Bob Gliner, 2024, 56 min, Santa Cruz County) — 2-4 p.m.

This locally made documentary, recently shown on PBS, showcases a diverse range of vibrant memorable 80-year-olds finding meaning in their lives through long lived career choices contradicting the stereotype that their minds and bodies are obsolete.

Includes live music performance from Patti Maxine, a gerontologist, and Q&A with the director. Free!

CALL FOR ARTISTS

Judy Gittelson of Studio Judy G, 430 Main St., Watsonville, is organizing an art exhibit about trains for June 9 – Aug. 10, and is asking artists to submit art about trains, views from the train seat, and the possibility of train travel in Santa Cruz County in the future. Apply at www.studiojudyg.org. Entry deadline is May 15.

PARK RX

Santa Cruz County Parks offers free fitness and tai chi classes for people 50+ at Anna Jean Cummings Park in Soquel. Gentle fitness with anaerobic conditioning and stretching started Tuesday April 9 at 9:30 a.m. Consult with your physician before you begin.

Tai Chi for beginners is 1-2 p.m. Wednesday and Friday from May 22 to July 19.

Wear sturdy, supportive footwear and bring water. Information: scparks.com

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS & TACO TUESDAYS

5-8 p.m., Skypark, 361 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley Josh and Teresa Swart, owners of Food Trucks A GoGo, organize events on the last Friday of the month, April through October.

Dates are: May 31, June 28, July 26, Aug. 30, Sept. 27 at 4:30 p.m. and Oct. 25 at 4:30 p.m.

Beer and wine garden 100% benefiting Scotts Valley Educational Foundation, plus live music and face painting. May 31 celebrates the end of school in Scotts Valley and many Santa Cruz County area schools. •••

Food Trucks AGoGo also presents Taco Tuesday 5-8 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month May through October, also at Skypark.

Dates are: May 14, June 11, July 9, Aug. 13, Sept. 10 at 4:30 p.m. and Oct. 8 at 4:30 p.m.

Features a beer and wine garden. 100% benefiting local nonprofits, including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Cruz County.

TUTOR TRAINING

Do you know someone who wants to be a tutor?

The Santa Cruz County Volunteer Center announces new tutor trainings: May 29 & 30, Scotts Valley Water District, 6-8:30pm June 4 & 6, Scotts Valley Water District, 6-8:30pm

Sign up at https://scvolunteercenter.org/programs/literacy-program/join/

SUMMER ITALIAN CLASSES

Registration is now open for summer Italian language classes with Dante Alighieri Society.

Learn the language of “la dolce vita” with native Italian-speaking Instructors. Whether you are new to the Italian language, totally fluent, or everything in between, you will have an opportunity to practice via reading and discussion. The 8-week session has in-person classes and online classes. Read the descriptions carefully to determine the best class for you. The cost varies. Early bird discount pricing ends on May 12 and the last day to register is June 9. Classes start mid-June. To register go to: www.dantesantacruz.com/classes

SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE

The nonprofit California Legislative Central Coast Caucus Foundation offers a scholarship for students from the California Central Coast.

Eligible students must come from Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, or Ventura counties.

Candidates apply by visiting CLCCCF.org, where details about criteria and process are available. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. May 31.

COUNTY CLEANUP DAY COMING MAY 11

The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors announces the first “Santa Cruz County Cleanup Day,” Saturday, May 11.

The Board adopted the resolution to support designating the second Saturday in May as an annual clean-up day to improve local beaches, wetlands, riparian corridors, parks and other open spaces. The event is being led by the Trash Talkers Coalition, local leaders behind the Pitch In initiative focused on eliminating litter and illegal dumping and making Santa Cruz the cleanest county in California. The County is supporting the effort by allocating a portion of Measure C single-use cup funds toward public cleanup events in unincorporated Santa Cruz County by offering a disposal site fee waiver voucher.

Participants must contact Kasey Kolassa by May 1 to request a voucher at: kasey.kolassa@santacruzcountyca. gov or fill out the online form at pitchinsantacruz.org. Fee cannot be waived for private property cleanups.

COUNTY FAIR BOARD MEETINGS

The Santa Cruz County Fair Board will meet each month in 2024 except September and November. Remaining dates are May 28, June 25, July 23, Aug. 27, Oct. 22, and Dec. 3.

There is no meeting in September or November. Meetings typically begin at 1:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday in the Heritage Building at the fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Blvd., Watsonville. For agendas, posted 10 days in advance, see santacruzcountyfair.com

ONGOING EVENTS

Ongoing thru Friday May 17

CABRILLO COLLEGE STUDENT EXHIBITION

Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | Wed-Thr 6-8 p.m., Cabrillo College Library 1002, 6500 Soquel Dr. Aptos Student Exhibition 2024 is a wide-ranging survey of

SCOTTS VALLEY FARMERS MARKET OPENS MAY 4

The Scotts Valley Farmers’ Market opens for the season Saturday, May 4, from 9 am to 1 pm at the Joe and Linda Alberti Boys & Girls Club, 5060 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley, with a Strawberry Shortcake Giveaway. Enjoy JCG and Live Earth farms’ strawberries with whipped cream atop Beckmann’s Bakery shortbread.

Look for Laurel Canyon, Schoch Dairy, Mora Farm, Groundswell and Casalegno farms, Stackhouse Brothers and Ken’s Top Notch plus newcomer Lupita Quintero’s organic farm Luna Dorada, offering chard, marigolds, carrots, and red cabbage.

Adorable French Bakery is back, adding croissant benedicts, fried eggs and potatoes. Plus Cuevas Express, Hidden Fortress Coffee, Pottery by Abigael and The Redwood Patio. Rotating treats include Spontaneous Confections and Bees Knees Bakery.

For opening day, you’ll find face painting, a market hunt with prizes and live music, plus tables and chairs, a grass pad and kids zone.

Market Match returns for Cal Fresh/EBT buyers; $15 of EBT is matched with $15 in tokens for fruits and veggies.

Foodshed Project dates with Mountain Feed & Farm Supply: Summer Sweets July 20, Pepper Party Aug. 24 and Fruity Wreath Making Nov. 9.

The market closes in November before Thanksgiving.

The Felton Farmers’ Market also opens for the season Tuesday, May 7, from 1:30-5:30pm, at the St. John’s Church parking lot, with a Strawberry Shortcake Giveaway. Jessica Tunis of Mountain Feed & Farm Supply will teach a jam workshop.

Foodshed dates: June 25, Penny Ice Creamery free mini scoops, Sept 10, Applefest, and Oct. 15, Pumpkin Decorating Bonanza.

The season runs through October. More info: www.santacruzfarmersmarket.org

/ May 2024 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

artwork produced by students in the Cabrillo College Art Studio and Art Photography Departments during the spring semester. The show, from April 22 to May 17, showcases student talent and creative imagination. This exhibition includes painting, drawing, printmaking, ceramics, sculpture, small-scale metals/jewelry, digital fabrication, graphic design, mixed media, woodworking, video, and traditional, alternative process and digital photography. Student work will be for sale at the reception.

Ongoing thru May 18

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ART SHOW

Open Wednesday-Saturday, 1-4 p.m., Santa Cruz Art League at 526 Broadway, Santa Cruz Santa Cruz Art League hosts the 66th Annual High School Show.

This year, 11 schools are participating with 140+ pieces gracing the gallery, showcasing the creativity of the next generation.

The schools are Aptos High School, Delta Charter High School, Harbor High, Kirby High, Pacific Collegiate School, Santa Cruz High School, Scotts Valley Arts Center, Scotts Valley High School, Soquel High School, St. Francis High School, and Watsonville High.

See ceramics, lino prints, oil and acrylics, watercolor, and more.

Mondays First Wednesdays

SONS IN RETIREMENT

Time TBD, Elks Lodge, 150 Jewell St., Santa Cruz SIR (Sons In Retirement) is a nonprofit, nonpolitical public benefit organization of senior men. The organization’s mission is to enhance the lives of its members through social events while making friends.

The Twin Valleys, Santa Cruz Branch welcomes new members and meets the first Wednesday of each month. Contact Ray Disperati at 831-588-8876 for information.

Thursdays in May

JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL

7 p.m., Capitola Library, 2005 Wharf Road Capitola Library will screen three more films from the Jewish Film Festival.

May 9 : Birth of a Conflict, episode 2, how the JewishArab conflict turned from a territorial dispute to a religious conflict, and the little-known Great Arab Revolt May 16 : Birth of a Conflict, episode 3, failure of the Arab national movement, success of the Zionist movement in creating a Jewish state, and crumbling of the British Empire. May 23 : Children of Peace (documentary): Dreamers founded a community of Arabs and Jews, Neve Shalom in 1970s Israel, and children who grew up there, now adults, must deal with the reality of war.

DATED EVENTS

Saturday May 4

DR. MARGO KUSHEL TO SPEAK ON HOUSING

4-6 p.m., Hotel Paradox 611 Ocean St, Santa Cruz Housing Santa Cruz County announce May as Affordable Housing Month, with a kickoff event at Hotel Paradox featuring Dr. Margot Kushel, MD, an expert in homelessness research and solutions.

As a professor of medicine at UC San Francisco and Director of the UCSF Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative, Dr. Kushel will discuss the critical role of advancing affordable housing solutions toward ending homelessness and improving health outcomes.

Tickets ae $30

Isabel Olmes-Leiva, Boots n’ birdies, enamel on copper. Student Exhibition 2023

and include light refreshments. Attendees may support HSCC’s mission to promote affordable, safe, stable homes for local residents and workers at https://secure. everyaction.com/crVapmdnu0a9hiuEB-kjXA2

This year’s theme is “Be Part of the Solution.” For more events in May, see: https://www.housingsantacruzcounty.com/affordable-housing-month.

WORLD LABYRINTH DAY

1-3 p.m., Calvary Episcopal Church, 532 Center St, Santa Cruz World Labyrinth Day is an international event held on the first Saturday each May, sponsored by The Labyrinth Society in collaboration with partner organizations including the Australian Labyrinth Network, Legacy Labyrinth Project, and Veriditas. Visit worldlabyrinthday.org.

The event takes place at Calvary Episcopal Church at Cedar and Lincoln Street. You’ll be able to:

• Walk a temporary labyrinth.

• Learn about the Labyrinth Garden coming in 2024 on the grounds of Calvary Episcopal Church.

• Hear about the landscape design and permaculture gardening from Terra Nova Ecological Landscaping.

• Tour the church and view displays about Calvary history. Information: labyrinth@calvarysantacruz.org

Saturday May 4

Sunday May 5

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN MUSHROOM FESTIVAL

10 a.m.-7 p.m., Roaring Camp, 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton Roaring Camp in Felton hosts the Santa Cruz Mountain Mushroom Festival.

There will be cooking and cultivation demos, functional mushroom talks, and DIY workshops, plus networking, live music, book signings and art.

Presenters include: Dr Christopher Hobbs, mycologist Alan Rockefeller, mushroom enthusiast Dr. Gordon Walker, Guilietta Octavio, doctor of herbal medicine, mushroom growers Taylor Bright, Erik Lomen, and Amanda Janney, researcher Sarah-Kate Boylan of Lily’s Lighthouse, herbalist Indy Srinath, author-herbalist Jess Starwood, mushroom teacher Wilder Herbertson and Jasper DeGenaars of Fungi Academy, and William Padilla Brown of MycoSymbiotics.

Hands-on Workshops: Fabric dyeing • painting with mushroom pigment • fermenting with fungi • log cultivation demo • straw pasteurization • tissue cultures • microscopy tent • spore prints.

Kid zone: Face painting • henna • mushroom cornhole • archery range • rock painting • bubbles • Giant Bamboo hoops • bounce house

Tickets are $75 for one day or $140 for both days. Buy tickets at scmmfest.com

Sunday May 5

CHILI COOK-OFF

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m., St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 101 Riverside Ave., Ben Lomond

St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church will host the 13th annual chili cook-off 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 5 at the church, 101 Riverside Ave., Ben Lomond.

The price is $10 for adults, and $5 for children ages 9 or younger. Proceeds benefit the church.

To register your chili, email japostavit@comcast.net.

Wednesday May 8

BE THE DIFFERENCE AWARDS

11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m., Coconut Grove Ballroom, 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz

The Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County will celebrate individuals, groups, and businesses who do the most to transform Santa Cruz County through volunteerism at a luncheon at the Coconut Grove Ballroom.

Tickets: $60 per person, including lunch.

RSVP at https://scvolunteercenter.org/be-the-difference-awards/

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

SAN LORENZO VALLEY ART TOUR

Saturday May 18 • Sunday May 19

11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Throughout San Lorenzo Valley Come and enjoy art of all media, and discover the abundance of artistic talent in the San Lorenzo Valley. More than 25 artists participate: Stained glass, painting, printmaking, photography, woodwork, ceramics, and jewelry.

Admission to all studios is free.

Fluorescent pink signs will direct you to all participating artists. Website: www.slvarttour.org | E-mail slvarttour@gmail.com

Image: Hummingbird • Photograph by Michael Lopes

Friday May 10

CABRILLO YOUTH STRINGS RECITAL

7 p.m., Cabrillo College, VAPA 5156, 6500 Soquel Dr, Aptos

The Cabrillo Youth Strings Chamber Music Program for kids ages 8 to 18 will present a recital at the VAPA 5156 building.

Saturday May 11

BLUE PLAQUE CEREMONY

1-2:30 p.m., MAH, 705 Front St., Santa Cruz

The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History will host the Historic Landmark Blue Plaque Award Ceremony the MAH.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Blue Plaque program in Santa Cruz.

This year’s event will also honor 2020-2023 awards which occurred without a ceremony due to the pandemic.

These plaques were awarded to several houses and a number of pioneer surf shops.

The 2024 plaques will be awarded to residential buildings, an affordable apartment project, and a fire station.

Honoring the structures and the people who make them special, this free event is for anyone who loves Santa Cruz history.

Blue Plaques are awarded to structures in Santa Cruz County that are at least 50 years old and have historic significance.

Hear from local historians and community members as they dive into interesting research and personal stories related to the Blue Plaque recipients.

More than 300 plaques have been awarded since 1973.

Monday May 13

GETTING STARTED WITH CITRUS

5-6:30 p.m., Online Seminar

UC Master Gardeners of Monterey & Santa Cruz counties present a free online workshop on growing citrus trees

5-6:30 p.m. Monday, May 13. Citrus trees can be grown in a container or in the ground

and a healthy citrus tree will provide years of abundant fruit.

Learn which varieties do best in the Monterey Bay area, how to choose a good plant and how to plant it properly whether in a container or in the ground.

If you already have citrus in your garden, you’ll learn how to care for and fertilize your citrus as well as protect it from the most common pests.

To register, visit mbmg.ucanr.edu. Donations are welcomed.

Tuesday May 14

TALK ABOUT HOUSING

6:30 p.m., Bruno’s Bar and Grill, 230 Mount Hermon Road, Kings Village Shopping Center, Scotts Valley

In recognition of Affordable Housing Month, Julie Conway, former Santa Cruz County Planning Department housing manager and current chair of Santa Cruz City’s Planning Commission, will be the guest speaker for the Democratic Club of North Santa Cruz County’s May meeting.

She will discuss efforts to address the ongoing housing crisis and answer frequently asked questions about what affordable really means, income levels for affordable housing and how residents can apply for rental and for sale affordable homes.

Club meetings are upstairs at Bruno’s Bar and Grill. Meetings start at 6:30 p.m. Arrive at 6 p.m. to write postcards and letters to support Democratic candidates in competitive races.

Members of the public are welcome to attend.

Thursday May 16

CREDIT UNION GRAND OPENING

5 p.m., Santa Cruz Community Credit Union, 55 River St., Santa Cruz Santa Cruz Community Credit Union announces the Grand Opening of the new downtown branch.

This building used to house the Santa Cruz County Law Library and still houses private law offices.

There will be a celebration and ribbon-cutting with CEO Beth Carr.

There’s plenty of parking.

With locations in Santa Cruz, Watsonville and Soquel, the credit union’s goal is to provide affordable financial services — economic empowerment — to all. Services include online banking, mobile banking, digital wallet, loans, credit cards, business checking, cannabis accounts to local licensed operators, plus small business resources.

Since opening the first branch in downtown Santa Cruz in 1977, SCCCU has grown into a thriving $190 million financial cooperative with 15,000 members.

Saturday May 18

MARCH TO END HOMELESSNESS

10 a.m., Santa Cruz City Hall, 809 Center St. Housing Matters announces the second annual March to End Homelessness in Santa Cruz County will be at Santa Cruz City Hall.

Attendees will hear from local leaders, advocates and people who have been homeless about the importance of “Housing as a Human Right.” The march will finish with a Resource Fair of services. Partners include Abode Services, Association of Faith Communities, Homeless Garden Project, Housing Santa Cruz County, Santa Cruz County Public Defenders Office, the Free Guide and Wings Homeless Advocacy.

“Last year, we had a great turnout of around 500 people and this year we’re hoping even more community members come out to show their support,” said Phil Kramer, Chief Executive Officer of Housing Matters. “The March is not just a symbolic show of solidarity for those experiencing homelessness. It is a great opportunity to raise awareness about the actions that the City and County and the whole continuum of care, including Housing Matters and all the other service providers, are taking to support our unhoused neighbors.”

For information, visit: housingmatterssc.org/event/march2024

Sunday May 19

BOULDER CREEK BUSINESS ASSOCIATION DINNER

3-8 p.m., YMCA Camp Campbell. 16275 Highway 9, Boulder Creek

The Boulder Creek Business Association plans its Annual Dinner and Auction Fundraiser at YMCA Camp Campbell.

There will be drinks for purchase, a silent auction and a live auction, live music and dancing. A virtual auction will begin at 3 p.m. and run for two weeks.

Tickets are $65 for BCBA members and $75 for non-members. (Visit BCBA.net to join) Order tickets at https://www.biddingforgood.com/auction/auctionhome. action?vhost=2PeJy

New for 2024: Free childcare for children who are potty trained with the Camp Campbell staff. This is sponsored by Messy Play Kits.

Tuesday May 21

FREE AFFORDABLE HOUSING VIRTUAL SEMINAR 6:30 p.m., Online

Affordable Housing Now is sponsoring a free virtual Affordable Housing Month event focused on Scotts Valley’s Housing Element, recently certified by the state’s Housing and Community Development Department, which provides information on how the city must plan for 1,220 new housing units by 2031.

Speakers will talk about the city’s future housing needs and how the Scotts Valley Water District can accommodate needs of new housing developments.

Speakers include: David McNair, Scotts Valley Water District general manager, Chris Perri, Scotts Valley Water District board member, and Jack Dilles, Scotts Valley City Council member and Affordable Housing Committee member.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Federal Funds for Community Projects

Includes $1 Million for Town Center; Child Care in Cabrillo Student Housing

U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley) announced he has secured $5.53 million in community project funding for 6 local initiatives in Santa Cruz County. These projects include:

• $1,666,279 for the Cabrillo Child Care Center to construct an expanded child care center as part of Cabrillo College’s housing project and support services for low-income students.

• $1,000,000 for the Scotts Valley Town Center to acquire 8.15 acres of land, with the eventual goal being to develop 14 total acres of vacant land into a mixeduse “downtown” urban core, including affordable housing.

• $959,752 for the City of Santa Cruz for Newell Creek Pipeline Replacement to replace approximately 2,600 lineal feet of the Newell Creek Pipeline located within a steep hillside off Brackney Road in rural Ben Lomond and relocate the pipeline within geologically stable ground for both landslide and earthquake protection.

• $959,752 for the San Lorenzo Valley Water District Tank Replacement Project to consolidate two small mutual water companies, Forest Springs, and Bracken Brae, with the San Lorenzo Valley Water District to provide a safe and reliable water supply to the approximately 440 customers served by these two systems.

• $500,000 for the Real Property Acquisition for Natural Bridges Apartments Affordable Housing Project to support a 20-unit, single-room occupancy, threestory apartment building providing affordable housing and other amenities to low-income residents.

• $450,000 for Capitola Cliff Drive Infrastructure Resiliency which would stabilize the failing coastal bluffs along Cliff Drive to protect local public infrastructure and public safety.

In 2021, Panetta and House Democrats led the way in bringing back a process to allow representatives—who know their districts best—to request and secure funds for the programs and places that matter most to communities. The process, formerly known as “earmarks,” had been halted for 10 years due to accusations of pork spending.

“Local projects that directly impact the quality of life of our community need federal investment to properly scale,” Panetta said. “Through this funding, I am working to foster an important, ongoing connection between the federal government and the organizations doing incredible work on housing, childcare, water resiliency, and more in California’s 19th Congressional District. Alongside local partners, we are making tangible improvements to our community and bringing exciting new initiatives to fruition in Santa Cruz County.”

Matt Wetstein, Cabrillo College president and superintendent, said, “We are incredibly grateful for Congressman Panetta’s support in securing U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development funding of $1.67 million for the Cabrillo College Child Care Center that will be included in our low-income student housing project in partnership with UCSC.”

He added, “Many of our students are also parents, and having reliable, affordable child care is essential for them to be able to stay in school. The Child Care Center will include classroom space, child care services, an outdoor recreation space, and nutritious meals.”

Santa Cruz Water Department Director Heidi Luckenbach said, “The Newell Creek Pipeline is one of the oldest and most important pieces of our water system. Replacing it will improve our water deliveries and strengthen our ability to respond to the increasing threats of severe wildfires and intense storms associated with climate change.”

She added, “This new funding will help ensure safe, reliable, and affordable drinking water for our community for decades to come, and we are grateful to Congressman Panetta for championing this initiative.”

San Lorenzo Valley Water District

Interim General Manager Brian Frus said, “The San Lorenzo Valley Water District is honored to be a recipient of 2024 Congressional Community Project Funding. The District will utilize project funding to assist with the consolidation of two local water mutual companies heavily impacted by the 2020 CZU Fire.”

He elaborated, “Funding will specifically be used to construct water storage to ensure potable water along with adequate fire flows far into the future. This opportunity marks progress in our consolidation efforts and emphasizes the importance of collaborative approaches to address critical infrastructure needs.

Frus concluded: “We express our gratitude for this funding opportunity and look forward to continuing this productive collaboration with Rep. Panetta’s office.”

Capitola Mayor Kristen Brown said, “Failing coastal bluffs along Cliff Drive present a threat to public safety for Capitola residents. Through this federal funding, our community will be able to continue to make progress on infrastructure improvements to this critical roadway. The city of Capitola looks forward to our continued partnership with Rep. Panetta in our collective work to improve quality of life for our residents.”

Scotts Valley Mayor Randy Johnson said, “The City of Scotts Valley is profoundly grateful for the funding secured by Rep. Panetta for our Town Center project. This generous support will have a lasting impact on our community and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.”

Santa Cruz County Housing Authority Executive Director Jenny Panetta said, “The Housing Authority of the County of Santa Cruz extends our deepest gratitude to Congressman Panetta for his unwavering commitment to affordable housing for our community. With his instrumental support in securing $500,000 of Community Project Funding for Natural Bridges Apartments, Congressman Panetta has paved the way for 20 households to secure stable and affordable housing in the heart of Santa Cruz’s Westside neighborhood. We commend Congressman Panetta and his team for their tireless advocacy and collaboration towards our shared goal of using affordable housing as a platform to foster a thriving community for all.” n

Proposal Render of planned students housing © 2022 Jones Lang LaSalle IP, Inc. All rights reserved.

SCCAS Featured Pet

Sam I Am

Our Pet of the Week is Sam AKA Sam I Am (A311157)! He is an 8 year old grey and white neutered male Pit Bull.

This senior sweetheart came to the Shelter from a partnering organization after he was surrendered due to his family moving. He was in his previous home for his entire life. He lived with a family including children, French bulldogs and dogsavvy cats. Sam was described as house trained in his previous home.

Sam is a mellow guy who enjoys hanging out and having a couple short sniffaris a couple times a day. In his previous home, he was free roaming when left alone and also would go in and out of the doggy door. Sam enjoyed going for walks in his previous home. He also knows “sit” and “down”. Although he is an older dog, he is an example that old dogs can in fact learn new tricks.

An adopter that will commit to positive reinforcement training to continue bonding with Sam will be great. Sam has been hanging out at client services at the Shelter and has been fairly easy going. He is such a love a kind member of the public has sponsored his adoption fee! Sam is the bestest boy and looking for a low key home to hang out with and a loving family to be his best buds!

If you are looking for a work from home companion to be your steady sidekick – come meet Sam today!

Right now we are having a “Big Dogs Rule!” adoption special since we have so many large, loveable and fun pups! All dogs 40lbs and up are half off of their adoption fees! When you adopt a dog at SCCAS you get neuter/spay, microchip, age appropriate vaccinations, flea treatment all included with your adoption fee! What a great deal when you find your new BEST FRIEND!

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. 580 Airport Blvd., Watsonville, 95076 • Hours: Tues.-Sat. 9:30 a.m. – noon; 1–5 p.m. (Closed Sun/Mon)

Website: www.scanimalshelter.org

SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182 • After Hours: jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us

“Forever Chemicals” from page 16

Ken Cook, Environmental Working Group president and co-founder, said, “For decades, the American people have been exposed to the family of incredibly toxic ‘forever chemicals’ known as PFAS with no protection from their government. Those chemicals now contaminate virtually all Americans from birth. That’s because for generations, PFAS chemicals slid off of every federal environmental law like a fried egg off a Teflon pan.”

EPA estimates between 6% and 10% of the 66,000 public drinking water systems subject to this rule may have to take action to reduce PFAS to meet these new standards.

All public water systems have three years to complete initial monitoring. They

“Voting” from page 19

Builder Tom Decker and Theresa Ann Bond, a member of the Los Gatos Saratoga Joint High School District board, got 31 % of the votes, and it remains to be seen who their backers will support.

Live Oak School District’s $44 million bond measure needed 55% to pass and 64.63% voted yes.

“Calendar” from page 21

Scotts Valley Mayor Randy Johnson will provide opening remarks.

To RSVP go to bit.ly/may-21-rsvp

For the meeting zoom link, visit https://www.housingsantacruzcounty.com/affordablehousing-month and scroll down to find the Scotts Valley event.

For more information, call (831) 431-6163.

Friday May 24

MUSIC FOR MIGRATORY BIRDS

7:30-9 p.m., Cowell Ranch Historic Hay Barn at UC Santa Cruz, Ranch View Road, The Bowerbird Collective presents “A Season on the Wind | Music for Migratory Birds” at Cowell Ranch Historic Hay Barn.

This concert comes from Australia and is based on author, ornithologist and conservationist Kenn Kaufman’s book.

A musical and visual journey from the shores of Lake Erie across the Americas, this 50-minute performance stars three internationally acclaimed musicians, and features spectacular visuals and a newly commissioned score by The Brothers Balliett.

Also on the program is ‘Rivers are our Brothers’, a 20-minute song cycle by Majel Connery on ecological responsibility told from the point of view of the land. Commissioned by Musica Sierra and created with Learning Landscapes, an educational program of the Feather River Land Trust.

Performers: Majel Connery, vocals, keyboard with The

must inform the public of the level of PFAS measured in their drinking water.

Where PFAS exceeds these standards, systems must implement solutions to reduce PFAS in drinking water within five years.

The EPA said the limits “are achievable using a range of available technologies and approaches including granular activated carbon, reverse osmosis, and ion exchange systems.”

The Cape Fear Public Utility Authority, serving Wilmington, North Carolina, has effectively deployed a granular activated carbon system to remove PFAS. n •••

EPA offers a communications toolkit at https:// www.epa.gov/sdwa/pfas-communications-toolkit. For more stories on PFAS, see www. tpgonlinedaily.com

In Happy Valley, a one-school school district, 83.97% of voters said yes to a $99 parcel tax for six years. A 2/3 yes vote was needed. Voters in the Pacific Elementary School District in Davenport passed two bonds, which needed 55% to pass, one for $1.3 million, with 61.26% yes and one for $675,000 with 67.71% yes. n

Complete results at www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Bowerbird Collective, Simone Slattery, violin, vocals, and Anthony Albrecht, cello.

Tickets are: Adults $35, seniors $30, under 19 & students $5 at https://events.humanitix.com/a-season-on-the-wind-santa-cruz

Saturday May 25

FELTON REMEMBERS PARADE & COVERED BRIDGE FESTIVAL

8-9:30 am. Check-in, Highway 9 park entrance, 10 a.m., Parade Starts The Felton Remembers Parade and Covered Bridge Festival will take place this year, as always, on Memorial Day weekend, which falls this year on May 25. The parade on Highway 9 in downtown Felton, which will be closed.

To register to be in the parade or have a booth in the festival, see https://www.feltonbusinessassociation.org/ The staging area for the parade this year (again) will be in the picnic area at Henry Cowell State Park, NOT at San Lorenzo Lumber (formerly Pro-Build). Parking is available (no charge) in the park. n

Photo Credit: Charley Harper Art Studio

Deborah Cypert Owner Bobbie Frandeen