SCMB Volume 12 Issue 4

Town Came Down: March to End Homelessness Celebrates Success and Raises Awareness

By Venice Mason

Bright sunshine and crisp cool air greeted folks joining the March to End Homelessness on April 1st. As Mayor Fred Keely raised his fist to the sky and promised to do even better for those in need, a note of hopefulness rang through the air.

During Indigenous activist and Santa Cruz Community Health

Certified Mediator Mace Crowbear’s speech, many were moved to tears with her as she shared her lived experience of hardships leading to homelessness for her family.

Indigenous people are impacted disproportionately by homelessness here. Despite making up less than one percent of the population according to DataShare Santa Cruz County, American Indians/ Alaskan Natives account for 3% of those experiencing homelessness in the Santa Cruz County point in time (PIT) count. Addressing this disparity is key to housing equity.

After the speeches, signs were gathered and the march down the mall began. Refreshments at the Homeless Garden Project storefront were perfectly lovely and a deep reminder of what people experiencing homelessness can achieve. Gathering out front for organic tea harvested from their local farm and sold on site, the Executive Director of the project chatted with program participants as other community members stopped to mingle. This level of community participation is amazing to witness as a visitor here. Seeing people literally walk the extra mile for those in need was inspiring.

After tea, the march proceeded over the bridge and to the community celebration at the courthouse where multiple social service agencies gathered. Food, music,

vendors, and activities offered a well-rounded view of those serving people facing the gauntlet of housing insecurity. Social safety nets are crucial to addressing critical needs in communities. As the crowd mingled and the band got funky, many were dancing and eating together, celebrating the work, and honoring each other’s contributions.

Housing is paramount for those experiencing homelessness and life challenges generally. With housing stability, healing can become

a priority. Working through the issues that led to homelessness can be daunting, and trying to do that without housing is like patching a ship at sea. Much better to harbor safely and then tackle all the leaks!

Enter the Homeless Gardening Project, a local program with a rich history of helping homeless folks achieve housing through employment opportunities. Hiring local people experiencing homelessness provides a crucial open door for many. At their farm near natural

bridges, gardens are thriving, and lives are changing daily. Established for decades, the gardens have seen many changes over the years. Executive Director Darrie Ganzehorn has been a huge part of this program succeeding. Starting in 1991 and leading the team since 2008, her guidance has achieved milestones including the recent 3.5-million-dollar capital campaign. Sharing the programs’ success has become a priority, with a new guidebook created in partnership with the University of Santa Cruz in the works to share tools with other cities.

Seeing the town come down demonstrating their solidarity with neighbors in need was just the experience I needed to keep working in my own small rural Oregon community. In a world where many ignore the problems they see; Santa Cruz stands out as particularly progressive in meeting the needs of those experiencing homelessness. Far from the bustle of the march, the gardens grow quickly, providing hope for those who need it most and sanctuary for all who work together daily to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable people. Way to go community! Thanks for having me and letting me share here.

Bull by the horns

Living Among the Trees in the Redwood Forest

By Kevin Foster

With so much tree damage and cleanup going on in our beautiful Santa Cruz mountains after the recent winter events, I got to thinking about our trees. I myself, like a lot of others, really only know the difference in the kinds of trees in our area. I know not to park directly under them or in the direction of any leaning trees when I know there’s a storm coming. Recently, I reached out to one of our local tree experts and longtime resident, Jason Vincent, owner of Vincent Arbor Works.

I asked Jason what some valuable things might be that the community should know.

(((( From Jason - due to the recent storms, all the rain, and wind unlike any we have ever seen, I would like to give you a little information

to keep you and yours safer, and some simple steps on how to spot obvious signs of potential tree failure and other hazards caused by trees that we live with every day here in the San Lorenzo Valley. One of the beautiful trees we get the pleasure of living with here in Santa Cruz county are Coastal Redwoods, (Sequoia sempervirens). But like everything good there is some cost to living under these giants. Redwood trees are prone to losing their branches regularly throughout the year. These branches are called “widow makers” by the old-timers for a good reason. Rubbing or crossed branches are often the culprits. They can fall at any time. Sometimes they get “hung up” on their way down and don’t make it to the ground. This causes a hazard to you, your roof, etc. “the target”. Hung up branches are usually easier to spot from a distance. So stand back and visually inspect your Redwood trees often to prevent targets from being struck.

Another thing I have noticed in the recent windstorms is failure due to high cut first growth stumps with second growth trees growing connected to them. This connection is weak and the older the stumps get, the less they support the tree. They rot faster than reaction wood can grow therefore leading to possible failure.

Tan Oak, (Notholithocarpus densiflorus) is another very common problem tree. They are currently being affected by an outbreak of oak bark beetles. These beetles can kill a mature oak over a summer. They finish off the host tree and move on to the next as soon as it dies. Leaving stands of oaks dead and susceptible to fueling wildland

- SCM Bulletin contributors -

Publisher: Wendy Sigmund-Mountain Publishing, LLC

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Contributors: Robert Arne, Mark Dolson, Kevin Foster, Lori Suzanne Holetz, Marcey Klein, Marybeth McLaughlin, Lisa Robinson, MJ Stearns, Joy Stewart

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fires. Clearing trees can help aid in the spread. Tan oaks also get a lot of co-dominant stems. These are trees that have 2 stems or leaders growing out together of about equal size. This arrangement is a common failure zone due to the stress it causes at the trunk union. Look for a bark branch ridge, (this is kind of a lumpy upside down v where the two meet), if present the union has greater holding strength.

The cutest when they’re your Christmas tree, the Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) Grows up to be one of the most worried about local species. Signs of sickness may show up on the bark in the form of fruiting bodies. These are reproductive parts of the organism living inside the tree. Conks and cankers are a few signs of underlying issues that can be identified by a visual

inspection by persons occupying the area.

Other signs of failure on any tree species are mounding on one side of the tree at the roots, vertical cracks on the trunk, large cavities, oozing at the base of trunk, mushrooms growing at base of trunk. When in doubt or for a second opinion call a local Arborist. Stay safe SLV. )))

There were so many things I didn’t know to be mindful of until talking with Jason about the trees on my property. So definitely reach out to one of our local tree companies if you are curious or have any suspicions about the health of trees on your property, they will all be happy to stop by for a consultation and/or an estimate on your property.

Astrology With Faelan Shiva — May 2023

Happy flower season!

I am sure we are all ready to see a burst of life and sunshine in the mountains. This month starts us off with Pluto going into retrograde in its new sign of Aquarius on May 1. It is time to give a very honest review of the lessons we’ve been learning through the big shifts of the last couple months. I have made sign specific entries for you under the horoscopes. May our entire mountain find our home situations blessed with some good fortune. We are ready for that!. May we all find some well deserved fun to get into.

Taurus: April 21-May 21Your identity is under review, and an opportunity to present yourself in a new light presents itself. You have a mind for planning and strategizing your resources until the 7th when your thoughts turn toward self care for a few days before you are asked to make a stand to make your long term goals a reality. Full Moon: A deeper intimacy with your loved ones is available. You may be asked to address some complex subjects. Don’t shy away from it, the rewards are rich. New Moon: Who do you want to be? Dream it. Plant the seeds. Embody it.

Gemini: May 22-June 20 Listen to your dreams, there is important information there. You may be feeling nostalgic as you review the spiritual lessons of your past experiences. There is a remembering of things you had and let go of, and lessons learned. What things do you want to have in the future? Full Moon: Perhaps a new body/mind integration routine is in order. How are you caring for your spiritual life in the real world? New Moon: A new day is dawning for you, how will you show up for it?

Cancer: June 21-Jully 21Have you been caring for yourself? Have you been standing up for your own boundaries as much as you protect others? If so, good. The Goddess of love and comfort is coming to support you on May 7th and through the end of June. Lean on her softness as you may have to make a stand on your boundaries on May 10. Full Moon: You may surprise yourself by coming out of your shell to express your deeper feelings. Perhaps some shocking art work or an intense creative project is in order. New Moon: What are your future plans and goals? What networking do you need to support them?

Leo: July 22-Aug 22There is no doubt you are shining in the public eye, though you may find yourself a bit at odds trying to determine what your authentic appearance is. While you are nourished by the applause of your audience, you may need to march to the beat of your own drum even if it feels awkward. Be true to yourself. Full Moon: Take a deep dive into your personal myth. Who are you really? How can you let that shine? New Moon: Nourish the seeds of friendships and community that applaud the real you.

Virgo: Aug 23-Sept 22 Spiritual and higher learning organizations are up for review. Are “the way things are done” useful to you? Or do you need to find your own way? How will you take charge of your education? If you are planning any overseas travel, wait until May 15th. Also, watch out for crossed communications or obstacles in assignments and deadlines if you are a college student. Full Moon: Find your own spiritual voice. What are your truths? New Moon: Consider an education or travel experience that supports these new insights.

Libra: Sept 23-Oct 22 Keep your cards close to your chest at work. You have a chance to create something long lasting and meaningful, but it requires working through some obstacles and developing daily habits that support your vision in the first half of the month. It may cause some friction with how you see yourself in general, but growth is always good. Full Moon: If you were going to change the way you make money, what would you do? Also may be a good time to purge the closet of outdated wardrobes. New Moon: Day dream about the future. What would feel amazing?

Scorpio: Oct 23-Nove 22 Your home life has likely been shaken up a bit. There are major shifts afoot in where you find your roots, and how that is defined by yourself vs others. The assignment is to find your own way of experiencing home, and to find your own true voice. Where can you release a power struggle?

Full Moon: Bask in the light of your moon, let it transform you into your next cycle. A loved one may surprise you. New Moon: This may be the perfect time to take your trusted relationships to a new level of intimacy.

Sagittarius: Nov. 23-Dec 21 The first half of the month has you snatching up the last of a streak of lucky opportunities. Not all

that glitters is gold. Did you make the right choices? The second half of the month has you cooling your heels, grounding, and tending to your daily habits. Some rest and structure are good medicine, perhaps get your health routines back on track. Full Moon: Listen to your dreams and trust your intuition. The answers you find here want to be grounded in the physical world, and in your body. New Moon: Find the sensuality in your relationships. Share a meal with friends, go on a hike or a nature walk with your business partner, plan a romantic date with your significant other.

Capricorn: Dec 22-Jan 20Hopefully you are getting your sea legs under you as your thoughts are a bit less structured than you are normally comfortable with, and the realm of dreams offers you new potentials. May 13-17 has romantic eyes on you, let the softness in. May 24-30 applies friction between the duties you identify with and your new fluid outlook on life. Are you sticking with your daily routines just because you are stubborn? Or is it what you really want? Full Moon: You may find some cracks in the communities and organizations you thought were supporting your goals, the full moon shines light on the truth of the matter. New Moon: What if play became a new habit? If you need something with an end result, sports might fit the bills. Martial arts? Dance? A new hobby?

Aquarius:Jan 21-Feb 19 A light shines on your own style of homekeeping. Perhaps some have thought your unique way of making home a sanctuary for you was a little odd, but now they are having second thoughts. May 22-28 asks you to devote some time to giving it an updo. Maybe that is beautification, or maybe that is weirdification. Paint the walls purple with yellow polka dots if you want, just give it some love. Full Moon: This one feels personal. And it is. Only you can decide how much of that you want to share with the public. Unless you have been keeping secrets from the boss, may be time for a confession. New Moon: Starting from the roots you’ve been nurturing at home, find a way to expand and express yourself. It’s just in the beginning stages, but imagine what it could be.

Pisces:Feb 20-March 20 Feeling agitated? Feeling like your normally blissful experience is interrupted with hard facts and obstacles? You will likely feel some relief mid month, and may start to get some ideas about how to move forward making those dreams real. It is still a season of effort and hard work, but we can’t wait to see the beauty you bring to the world because of it. Full Moon: Learn to trust your own thoughts as much as you reach outside of yourself to gain wisdom. You don’t need a guru to make decisions for you. New Moon: Your thoughts turn toward home and bring new insights into your sanctuary. If you must be in a hard work season, how can you support yourself with self care and a nurturing home space to retreat to?

Aries: March 20-April 20 Time to make your final push in bravely claiming your leadership, don’t underestimate yourself. That being said, choose kindness as your way of relating. You can be a fierce leader, and have a soft inside. Toward the end of the month, you are going to be asked to get very honest about the way you express yourself and how that affects your long term goals and community. Full Moon: An opportunity for deep honesty, and a chance to express some of your most intimate inner experiences. New Moon: Envision how you would like your resources to grow in the coming months. The seed of opportunity is available.

The Joyous Kitchen

Secret Sauce Noodles

By Joy Stewart

Over spring break, my oldest son and I bonded over making lunch together. It was generally a wet and cold week, so we made a few hot lunches together. Secret sauce noodles, with their savory, sweet and tangy flavors was our clear favorite. Best of all, it uses a delicious Korean chili paste called gochujang that you can get at almost any supermarket. Gochujang is also fantastic in soup to add a gentle heat, especially miso soup and really good on so many other foods. It makes a great spicy and creamy sauce when added to mayonnaise. Look for it in a big plastic tub, keep it refrigerated, and use it on all of your rice and noodle dishes, even in your creamy pasta sauces.

What is the “secret” to secret sauce? Apart from Gochujang the secret ingredient is actually ketchup. The tart and distinctly tomato flavor of ketchup is mellowed by the sweet honey and spicy/ savory/slightly sweet Gochujang. In combination with smoky, salty Worcestershire sauce, it actually tastes quite a bit like tamarind. Tangy and sweet tamarind is one of the flavors you can’t quite name in Pad Thai. To describe this dish is to call it reminiscent of Pad Thai, but also similar to Yakisoba, Japanese stir fry noodles, which have a salty, sweet, and sour sauce as well. If you have a mandolin slicer it will speed up this dish. As it is, the sauce quickly does the work in developing flavor for you making this a quick and easy delicious meal.

Secret Sauce Noodles

Serves 4

• 2 packages chow mein noodles, or 3 packages ramen noodles

• 2 medium carrots, cut into matchsticks

• 1 small yellow onion, sliced thinly

• 2 Tablespoons Neutral Oil

• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1 cup cooked chicken, sliced thinly (see notes)

Sauce:

• 1 Tablespoon Soy Sauce

• 1/2 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce

• 1 Tablespoon honey

• 1 clove garlic, crushed

• 1 teaspoon gochujang or other hot sauce

• 2 Tablespoons Ketchup

• Small pinch black pepper

For Serving:

• 2 Green Onions, sliced thinly

• (optional) furikake or sesame seeds (see notes)

• (optional) fried egg (see notes)

Method:

In a small bowl thoroughly mix together sauce ingredients. In a large pot of boiling water, boil the noodles for 2 minutes, drain noodles and set noodles aside. In the same pot over medium heat add sesame and neutral oils. Sauté vegetables until starting to soften, 2-3 minutes. Add chicken, noodles, and sauce. Also sliced scrambled egg (if using; see notes). Gently toss all ingredients together until everything has been warmed up and the sauce is coating the entire dish. Serve topped with sesame seeds or furikake and green onions. Also top each serving with a fried egg, if desired (see notes).

Notes:

For the shredded chicken you can use any precooked chicken. I like to use leftover rotisserie or roasted chicken. Furikake is a Japanese dry condiment consisting of shredded

nori (seaweed), sesame seeds, salt, and often sugar. You can purchase a version of this condiment without sugar from Trader Joe’s. This dish is amazing topped with an over easy or over medium fried egg; if you decide to make it this way I recommend an egg on top of each serving. If you prefer scrambled egg I suggest using 2 eggs beaten and cooking them before you add any vegetables to the oil in a thin layer until just cooked through, set aside. Allow to cool before rolling up like a crepe and

slicing thinly across the width. Toss in with the secret sauce at the end gently to reheat.

Healthy Tidbits

The Skinny on Cholesterol

by Marcey Klein BS, NC

What is it?

Cholesterol is a fat made from your liver, and many cells in the body. It is converted by enzymes to steroid hormones (which consist of our stress and sex hormones) , vitamin D, and bile salts. Cholesterol is a component of our cell membranes, giving them structure. Our brains are also high in this fat, they consist of about a quarter of all the cholesterol in the body. Our myelin sheaths which coat all of our nerve cells and nerve fibers consist of this cholesterol. Cholesterol is considered a healing compound; our bodies produce cholesterol when there is damage.

When is it problematic?

So cholesterol is essential and necessary for health, however, a problem occurs when these fats become oxidized. Oxidation can occur when there is an abundance of free radicals. They can occur from damaged fats from the diet, inflammation, toxins, lack of cofactors for detoxification, and insulin resistance. High glucose in the blood damages and inflames the arteries. This inflammation can cause damage to the epithelium in the arteries, so cholesterol, specifically LDL cholesterol will be deposited on these tears eventually creating plaque if the damage is not reversed.

Can cholesterol be good?

Cholesterol in itself is not the bad guy. In fact, most studies have shown that high cholesterol alone, without high triglycerides, is not a risk factor for coronary heart disease. and that, in fact, those with the highest serum cholesterol levels, with no other risk factors for heart disease like high blood pressure and high oxidative damage from things like cigarette smoking, live the longest, especially in women. (Ravnskov, 2004) Cholesterol is utilized to create hormones for women after menopause, and if there is no other risk factor than

high cholesterol for the individual, then studies have shown that it is not a risk factor at all. (Ravnskov, 2004) Cholesterol is needed for structure in the body, brain health, adrenal and sex hormone production, and cell communication.

Are there tests that can give me an in-depth reading of my cholesterol health?

Yes, there are tests that can look at specific markers for lipids and inflammation, they are:

• VAP (vertical Auto Profile) Cholesterol. This test calculates and differentiates between the small and dangerous LDL’s, and the light and fluffy LDL’s. A far more accurate test for cholesterol than the standard lipid panel.

• C –reactive protein test. This test looks at inflammatory markers in the body, a higher number, >1.3 mg/l indicates an inflammatory condition (chronic or acute) in the body which is associated with an increased risk of CVD. A number <0.8 mg/l is desirable.

• apoB/apoA-1 ratio. The ratio between these two seems to be one of the best lipoprotein related variables to assess coronary risk. (Walldius it al,.2004)

Is there anything I can change in my diet to prevent cholesterol oxidation?

Yes, gearing the diet toward a more anti-inflammatory, high fiber, plant based program can benefit the cardiovascular system immensely. Some specific dietary recommendations are:

• Beneficial fats are anti-inflammatory with extra protective antioxidants. These include extra virgin olive oil, pastured butter, virgin coconut oil, nuts,

seeds, and avocados.

• Foods with high vit E content including all nuts and seeds, and wheat germ. This antioxidant specifically helps prevent LDL oxidation

• Fiber A minimum intake of 25 grams, but 50 grams is ideal. Fiber is essential for the body to flush out toxins, extra cholesterol, fat, and bile, a must to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

• Foods high in antioxidants which include the most colorful fruits and vegetables. What foods can I include that can help manage my cholesterol?

• Foods rich in bioflavonoids such as all the citrus foods. These foods help manage inflammation, provide antioxidant protection, regulate hormones, support liver, and chelate metals that oxidize such as copper and iron

• Garlic can inhibit the production of cholesterol in the liver

• Dark leafy greens are high in magnesium which can normalize the production of cholesterol (wellnessresources. com)

• Artichoke blocks stimulation of cholesterol synthesis by insulin (Low Dog &Riley, 2003)

• Active Yogurt contains probiotics which convert cholesterol into a less absorbable form which the body can then excrete in the feces. ( Sinatra, 2011)

Which 3 nutrients would you specifically recommend to add to my diet to modulate my cholesterol?

Fiber is very important to increase in order that the body may flush out extra cholesterol, fat, toxins, and hormones. Foods that are rich in fiber include legumes, beans, all vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

Magnesium. If you are deficient in magnesium, the body will have a hard time modulating the production of cholesterol. (wellnessresources.com) Some studies have also shown that it may even inhibit LDL oxidation and can lower LDL and raise HDL.(Bauman 2013)

Magnesium rich foods include dark leafy greens, sea vegetables, nuts and seeds, beans, whole grains, and certain fish such as wild salmon and halibut. Therapeutic dosage of magnesium is 300 mg.

Vitamin D can improve all levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. All measures improved as vitamin D levels increased. (Bauman, 2013)

The ratios of LDL to HDL improved and triglycerides decreased. A serum level of 50-80 ng/ml is optimal. 2,000 iu daily or more of

vit D is recommended depending on serum levels.

What other synergistic foods, herbs, or nutrients can I include?

Garlic helps to lower LDL while raising HDL’s. It also lowers total cholesterol, since the organosulfur in it inhibits the making of cholesterol. It should be used liberally in the diet, but can be taken as a supplement at 2 grams per day.

Dark Chocolate or Cocoa is rich in polyphenols that inhibits LDL oxidation and increases HDL. One ounce a day is the medicinal intake, or 2 tsp raw cacao powder, which also contains these strong polyphenols. These polyphenols have also been shown to make the vascular system more flexible.

Ginger is an antioxidant, a blood thinner, a cardio tonic, anti-inflammatory, and it helps lower cholesterol. (Bauman, 2013)

Turmeric and capsicum help prevent oxidation of LDL, they protect the liver, and are anti-inflammatory. They work better in combination, so use them together in cooking.

Probiotics help the body convert cholesterol into a form that the body can more easily excrete. In particular Enterococcus faecium M-74 has been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol (Bauman, 2013) Omega 3 fatty acids help bring down inflammation, helps to make the vascular system more flexible, and brings down total cholesterol. 2-4 grams per day is recommended.

Overall, eating an antioxidant rich, diverse diet high in nutrients, fiber, probiotics, good fats and to supplement as necessary, is recommended to keep your cholesterol levels in check and to prevent and control the oxidation of your cholesterol. Please remember to exercise and to keep hydrated to flush toxins out and for healthy blood flow and oxygenation. Come to Wild Roots if you have any further questions on this or any health topic, take care!

Mountain Mama

Raising Chickens Off the Grid

by Wendy Sigmund

Up here in the mountains, the decision to live off-grid or live in a location without access to municipal utilities such as electricity or water is a good choice in my opinion however it does require some special considerations. In this column, I will discuss the wonderful world of chickens. Though, to ensure the health and well-being of the birds special considerations. Here are some tips for caring for chickens off-grid:

Shelter: Provide a sturdy, well-insulated coop or shelter for your chickens to protect them from extreme weather conditions, such as cold temperatures, wind, and rain. Make sure the coop is draftfree, well-ventilated, and predator-proof to keep your chickens safe from potential threats.

Water: Chickens require access to clean water at all times. If you don’t have access to a reliable water source, you may need to collect and store rainwater in barrels or tanks for your chickens to drink. Make sure to clean and refill the water containers regularly to prevent contamination.

Feeding: Chickens need a balanced diet that includes grains, protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients. You can feed them a combination of commercial chicken feed, kitchen scraps, and forage from the surrounding area. If you’re living off-grid, consider growing your own grains or raising insects as a sustainable source of chicken feed.

Lighting: Chickens need natural light to regulate their internal clock and lay eggs. However, if you’re living off-grid and don’t have access to electricity, you may need to provide supplemental lighting in the coop during the shorter days of winter to encourage egg production. Battery-powered or solar-powered lights can be used for this purpose.

Predator protection: Living offgrid often means being in closer proximity to wildlife, which can pose a threat to your chickens. Take steps to predator-proof your coop, including using sturdy wire mesh to cover windows and openings, burying wire mesh around the coop to deter burrowing predators, and securing the coop door with latches or locks.

Health care: Regularly check your chickens for signs of illness or injury, and provide appropriate veterinary care as needed. Keep the coop clean and well-maintained to prevent the spread of diseases. Living off-grid may mean limited access to veterinary care, so it’s important to have basic first aid supplies on hand, such as wound care products and poultry-specific medications.

Waste management: Properly manage chicken manure to prevent contamination of water sources and to maintain a clean and healthy living environment for your chickens. Composting or using the manure as fertilizer in your garden are eco-friendly options for waste management.

Heat source: If you live in an area with cold winters, you may need to provide a heat source in the coop to keep your chickens warm. This could be a heat lamp, wood-burning stove or a propane heater, depending on the availability of fuel in your off-grid location. Make sure to follow proper safety precautions when using any heat source in the coop.

Egg collection: Regularly collect eggs from the nesting boxes to prevent them from being pecked, soiled, or broken. Clean the eggs, if necessary, and store them properly in a cool and dry place. It is recommended that eggs are not washed until they are used. Prewashed washes off the protective “bloom”, which is a barrier that dries on the outside of the egg when layed to seal it and prevent bacteria from getting into the egg. Pre-washed eggs are vulnerable to bacteria entering the porous shell. Unwashed eggs do not need to be refrigerated for two weeks. Washed eggs need to be refrigerated immediately.

Emergency preparedness: Living off-grid means being prepared for unexpected situations. Have a plan in place for emergencies, such as power outages or extreme weather events, and stock up on essential supplies, such as food, water, and medical necessities, for both you and your chickens.

Caring for chickens off-grid requires careful planning and resourcefulness, but with proper preparation and attention to their needs, your chickens can thrive in their off-grid environment. Regular observation, good husbandry practices, and a little self-sufficiency can go a long way in ensuring the health and well-being of your feathered friends.

10 Years of Santa Cruz Mountains Makers Markets!

Powerful Storms Wash Enormous Stump Up on Santa Cruz Beach

The community is invited to Hallcrest Vineyards to the 10th annual SCM Makers Market for a fun day celebrating art and music in the mountains with local artists and makers, food trucks, Hallcrest Wine, Scrumpy Cider, Woodhouse Brews and live music on Sunday, May 7 from 10am-5pm.

This year’s lineup includes music by AJ Lee & Blue Summit and the vintage country duo Poi Rogers, with food truck Ate 3 One and local pulled pork master Kurt Zellerhoff. 50 local artists will be featured at the event including jewelry designer Rae Rodriguez (Boulder Creek), Bee Happy Today Clothing (Felton), Localife Flowers (Bonny Doon) and Love Cultivated Soaps (Ben Lomond.)

The SCM Makers Market is a free, family & pet friendly event on the gorgeous property of Hallcrest Vineyards less than a half a mile

up from Highway 9 on Felton Empire Rd. Lots of free on-site parking is available.

“We are excited to celebrate 10 years of Makers Markets in the Santa Cruz Mountains! This market really showcases the creative talent in our local community and Hallcrest offers the perfect setting.” says Bree Karpavage, Director of the SCM Makers Market. “Bring the whole family for a beautiful day of art and music in the Redwoods.”

Hallcrest Vineyards is located at 379 Felton Empire Rd, Felton, CA 95018. Parking is Free. More information about the event is on our website, www.scmmakersmarket. com

About the SCM Makers Market:

Bringing the community together

Highway 9 in Boulder

An extremely impressive old growth tree stump has washed up on the Cowell’s Beach in Santa Cruz in front of the Boardwalk, near the mouth of the San Lorenzo River. Professor of Oceanic Conservation at UC Santa Cruz, Niko Kaplanis who is over 6 feet tall is seen here in the photo, dwarfed by the Redwood giant. Hard to imagine this behemoth bobbing along the intense current of the river after this year’s succession of atmospheric rivers, it having been eroded and dislodged from someplace along the banks of the river. It just goes to show the power of the collecting water as the San Lorenzo makes it way to the ocean. One will guess it will sit right where it has landed for a good many years to come as a reminder of the awesome power of mother nature and her waters.

through local art and music since 2013! Originating in Felton,the SCM Makers Market features two annual markets in Felton every year, spring and fall, and hosts a

monthly market, the Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market every third Sunday on Pacific Ave.

Community Calendar May 2023

Friday May 5

MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: FIRST FRIDAY ART OF NATURE

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Get to know Santa Cruz’s WILD SIDE at the Museum of Natural History. Nerd out on your night out during monthly after hours events every First Friday, featuring rotating themes, vendors, and activities. Free admission to the Museum all day 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., with special outdoor festivities 5-8 p.m. Food from Areperia 831 and adult drinks will be for sale.

Saturday May 6

BEAR CREEK COMMUNITY CENTER’S OPEN HOUSE

2:00 PM -6:00 PM A much needed day of relaxation and comfort after our January storms is here! Come heal your body in our Sauna and hot tub while also having access to our weight room and cardio gym. This open house is FREE for everyone to attend. Memberships will be available for purchase if you would like to keep the healing going. Drop in option is $10 per day 5685 Forest Hill Dr. in Boulder Creek

EVERGREEN CEMETERY GUIDED TOUR: VISIONARY ENTRE-

PRENEURS: THOSE BURIED AT EVERGREEN BUILT A THRIVING COASTAL TOWN

3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

Join a 90-minute historic walking tour of Evergreen provided by education professor and historian Traci Bliss. Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History 831-429-1964 info@santacruzmah.org santacruzmah.org/events/kwanzaa

Sunday May 7

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS: 10TH ANNUAL MAKERS MAR-

KET 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Find one-of-a-kind handmade items from our local artists and makers, enjoy live music, food, beer, and wine. The community is invited to Hallcrest Vineyards to the 10th annual SCM Makers Market for a fun day celebrating art and music in the mountains with local artists and makers, food trucks, and live music on Sunday, May 7 from 10am-5pm.

Saturday May 13

TANNERY ARTS CENTER

SPRING ART MARKET BY ARTS

COUNCIL SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

10:00 AM -5:00 PM

Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend with a free family-friendly event featuring local artisans, live music, food trucks, wine and beer, art activities, and open studios on the Tannery campus.This year’s lineup includes live music with La Familla De Calle and Aquin, composed of Genoa Brown and Jase “Monk” Earl.Enjoy beer & wine from Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing and Big Basin Vineyard alongside food trucks Epoch Foods, Areparia 831 and Taquizas Gabriel.

Sunday May 14

ROARING CAMP RAILROADS: MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Treat Mom to something memorable on her special day with a delectable Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet accompanied with live

On the Water Front

music by Pat Hull. After a lovely brunch, relax with a train ride through the towering redwoods.

9 am & 11 am Brunch Live Music & Craft Table

Saturday May 27

FAE MASQUERADE BALL

7 PM - 1 AM

Costume Party. Come celebrate spring with us. If you liked the Witches Ball you will love the Fall Masquerade Ball. Come dressed as your favorite mythical creature, fantasy character or superhero if you like. There are no limits. (just like halloween but warmer) Enjoy live music by Redwood Groove, shop from the mystical vendors, get your tarot read or just enjoy the lavish decorations celebrating spring. There will be a costume contrast for cash prizes and gift certificates from local vendors. Other activities include crowing the Fairy Queen, and a fire ceremony to open the event. (PSST There may even be midnight pancakes) 21+ event. So much fun. See you there!! Advance tickets at BTRevents.com for $30 $35 at the door

Sunday May 28

MUSIC & ART FUNDRAISER

2023 TICKETS

11 AM -6:30 PM

Each ticketed entry helps the District continue to grow and offer classes/programs for the community. Adult tickets $20 Child tickets $10 Entry tickets include: pool access for the day, kid zone and parking (limited parking in lot). Outlaw BBQ by Charlie Brown will be available for purchase. Beer, wine, cider and pool snacks

Continued Progress and Some Disagreements

by Mark Dolson

The San Lorenzo Valley Water District (SLVWD) Board has met twice (April 6th and April 20th) since my last report, and the topics ranged from routine to controversial. It’s worth noting that the April 6th meeting was plagued by still-unresolved problems with the Zoom audio system in the District’s new hybrid meeting space at 12788 Highway 9, Boulder Creek. Happily, the audio was much improved at the Board’s April 20th meeting, but there is still a need for further refinement of the new setup.

The Board unanimously approved an expenditure of up to $75,000 for an Emergency Services contract with Anderson Pacific Engineering for construction of a temporary main pipeline in the Riverside Grove neighborhood. The exist-

ing main was damaged by slope failure during the storms this past December and January. The Board also unanimously approved a contract with Powers Forestry for up to $150,000 over the next two fiscal years for fire/vegetation management and maintenance aimed at its many infrastructure sites (tanks, pump houses, wells, and treatment facilities) currently in need of fire-fuel reduction.

The most delicate issue that the Board dealt with was an agenda item on the April 6th meeting recommending that Director Fultz be replaced by another director as one of the District’s two representatives on the board of the Santa Margarita Groundwater Agency (SMGWA). The precipitating incident was an article written by Director Fultz and published in the February SLV Post, but the proposed change was in no way

aimed at punishing Director Fultz or abridging his free speech rights. Rather, the relevant question was whether the District’s interest in promoting effective collaborative working relationships within SMGWA might be better served by a different appointee. The Board did not engage in meaningful deliberation on this point, and there was no actual motion to take any action.

The Board also engaged in extended discussion concerning its planned 2023 rate study. The Board voted 4-0 to award the contract for this study to Raftelis for $99,035. Director Fultz questioned whether the District would derive $15,000 of additional benefit from Raftelis (as compared to NBS, who submitted a lower bid and was responsible for the District’s controversial 2017 rate study), and he abstained from the final vote.

are also available. Stay tuned for complete band line up. Purchase your tickets today and be added to will call on the day of. www. bcrpd.org/

Save the Date

ARTICHOKE FESTIVAL 2023

This year’s Artichoke Festival is set for Saturday and Sunday, June 10-11, 2023. You won’t want to miss our 63rd annual community tradition filled with fun activities, delicious food, and plenty of our favorite thistle-y plant! Our theme: “Thistle Be Fun!” Santa Cruz Mountain Classic CAr Show- FireFighter Benefit

Saturday July 15 At the Brookdale Lodge Email for more information beneaththeredwoods@ gmail.com

ROARING CAMP RAILROADS: REDWOOD MOUNTAIN FAIRE

June 3 @ 11:00 am - June 4 @ 8:00 PM Dance the day away to live music with your friends and family while enjoying tasty locally made food, cold beer, cider, and wine in an open field surrounded by redwoods in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Join us for a weekend-long music festival and arts & crafts fair.Music all day on the Meadow and Creekside stages — check out Saturday and Sunday Children activities area, Locally-made arts & crafts, Food Wines from Santa Cruz Mountains wineries, Beers and ales from from local microbreweries, Train rides (not included in ticket price), A fun day with friends & family in the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains, And much more!

A formal rate study is an essential step in determining: (1) the total revenue the District will need to generate to cover its expenses, and (2) the District’s viable options for generating this revenue. All Board members agreed that it will be extremely important for the public to be well-informed this year both about the District’s costs and its various options. Members of the public tend to think primarily about how much they are being asked to pay and how much their water rates have increased over the years; the bottom-line question for the District, though, is simply how it can cover its essential costs as adequately and equitably as possible.

The next regular Board of Directors meeting will be at 6:30 PM on May 4th.

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Azure Building Design PO Box 811 Felton CA 95018 www.Drafting-Room. cpm

Serving the Santa Cruz Mountain Community after the CZU Fire of 2020 Cell 831-291-0707 Cell 408-455-2866

BC Recreation & Park

Boulder Creek Recreation & Parks District Hallie Greene 13333 Middleton Ave Boulder Creek, CA 831-338-4144

One Tribe Spirit

Dark Heart, Spirits of the Trees

By Lori Suzanne Holetz

Last month in the paper I wrote about our forest trees and endangerment. Since that printing, the story has continued in a more spiritual fashion. A resolution came, finally after two and a half years’ negotiations to ensure the safety of my home from two very hazardous fir trees. (See Bull by the Horns article with Jason Vincent in this issue.) It was not a happy event for me despite the degraded condition of these two one hundred year old beings. They were cracked through their centers indicating core rot, and had mushroom fungus assuring failure before long, but it was in the taking down where I witnessed their hidden majesty.

The tree crew arrived and got right to work on these monster trees, 250 feet tall, towering above all other redwoods nearby. I watched from across the creek, my heart heavier with each cut. The limbs plummeted down like enormous javelins, stabbing the mushy soggy ground and snapping in all directions. When the top of the tree was finally cut, it fell to the ground like an old, discarded Christmas tree. It was breezy and the other surrounding trees appeared to begin crying in the wind, squeaking, and groaning with each cut. There seemed to be a collective tree consciousness, and they too seemed to feel the sadness I was

feeling. Maybe, it was my imagination, but it felt palpable. The forest fell silent, the birds stopped chirping as death loomed.

Then, as the worker cut the next 4 foot section of the treetop, a brilliant magenta pink color surrounded the tree’s top section. I first thought it was a reflection from the clouds behind, but a quickly snapped photo showed what I was seeing. It was around the treetop, not behind it. Then the surrounding green of the forest heightened and became an iridescent brilliant glowing green. This too, I thought my imagination. The four foot section plummeted, slammed to the ground landing hard, only to reveal a dark heart in the core of the tree. It was as if all the heart and love people around me had been sending to the trees not to fall on my home, manifested in its core. Then there was a sense of the ground rising a bit and duff sort of shaking, as if the roots of the tree were shaking themselves off. There was a sudden quiet, silence and then a “whoosh”. I could have sworn I saw the tree’s spirit disengage the physical form and go off into the forest. This too, I caught in a photo. There definitely was a disturbance in the force of the forest.

Well, this was just all too much to be believed. Until it happened again four days later with the sister tree, when it too was being taken down.

At the heart of it

Same pink aura, same brilliant glowing greenery, same whoosh in the forest. This time, I was certain, there was another disturbance in the force of the consciousness of the forest. It was enough to make one cry, so sad. But I had to fall back on the clear fact that no matter how sensitive I was to the Spirits of the trees, and how much I hated to end these hundred year old beings…. they were killers that were rotting, cracked, nearing the end of their lives on their own, and in danger of falling on my house and potentially killing us. It was us, or these grand elders, so sad, a choice I would not wish upon anyone. When all was done, the tree

man looked at me with big, wide eyes and said, “Mucho grande! Monster trees! It was very scary up there swaying in the wind!”. Hats off to those who tend these grand beings. It’s a noble job with a less than noble ending. However, it is our reality as we try to live in harmony and safety amongst their grandeur.

The whoosh of the tree spirit