Aptos Times: October 1, 2025

County Wins Appeal on 37-Foot Walk

Decision Restores Public Right-Of-Way to Rio Del Mar Beach

By Jon Chown

Public access to Rio Del Mar Beach has prevailed. A decision handed down Sept. 25 by the 6th District Court of Appeals gives Santa Cruz County a right-of-way easement through what’s known as the 37-foot walk.

Originally 37 feet wide, the 786-foot long walkway runs along the seaward side of a block of homes from 202-300 Beach Drive. It has narrowed due to erosion and the creation of a seawall. ... continues on page 4

www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Jondi Gumz: 1953 ~ 2025

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

Jondi was an editor and reporter at the Santa Cruz Sentinel for 27 years and at the Times Publishing Group for the last five years.

Full Story page 9

Murphy’s Crossing Finally Repaired Full Story page 16

Santa Cruz County Fair

Deemed A Success

The Santa Cruz County Fair’s attendance numbers were down about 10% from the previous year, but organizers are considering the event a big success.

Full Story page 6

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18 Chamber Announces 2025 Annual Awards

19 PVUSD Board Holds Emergency Meeting: Brown Act Violations Force Trustees to Revote on Past Issues, By Jon Chown

Drones Return to Seascape: Neighborhood Concerned Over Treatment of Public Park, By Tad Stearn

Aptos Library Hosts

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CAMPING, SURVIVAL & PAINTBALL HEADQUARTERS”

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publisher

Patrice Edwards editor

Jon Chown

contributing writers

Michael Oppenheimer

Michael Oppenheimer, Ward Austin

evidence did not show that any of improvements planned for the 37-foot walk were ever constructed by the County.”

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production coordinator

Jon Chown, Tad Stearn, Bill Condy, Risa D’Angeles, Joe Ortiz, Cindy Hill-Ford, Rebecca Gold Rubin distribution

Bill Pooley, Erik Long layout

media consultants

The county has long maintained that the path is essential for safe access to the beach from the nearby parking lot, but it runs behind the homes and the homeowners use the area as patio space.

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The dispute over who owns the land and whether the public has access has been in court for many years. A Santa Cruz County Superior Court decision in February 2024 ruled that the county had no title or interest in the strip. The judgement also stipulated damages of $3.7 million and granted homeowners permission to build temporary fencing to block public access to the walkway. The 6th District Appeals Court reversed that decision, granting the homeowners title to the land, but subject to the county’s right-of-way easement.

Eric Miller, a spokesperson for plaintiffs’ attorneys Nossaman LLP, said the firm

Supreme Court. County Counsel Jason Heath had no comment. The lead plaintiff, Christopher Weseloh, did not return a call seeking comment.

The decision in the case, Christopher J. Weseloh et al., v. County of Santa Cruz, retells the long history of the dispute, which starts with the 1928 subdivision map recorded by the original developer. It included an offer to dedicate the 37-foot walk to the county for streets and highways. The county never chose to do so.

According to the Sept. 25 decision, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors, in 1929, adopted official plans for the 37-foot walk, but they were not specific beyond “that the numerous improvements planned for certain streets would include constructing concrete walks and steps and an asphaltic macadam sidewalk. The trial

Access to the walkway has been intermittent over the decades, but homeowners have been using it as their private areas since at least the ’60s and have been paying property taxes on the land for decades. According to court documents, local historian Sandy Lydon “recalled walking on the 37-foot walk in 1970 through the patios and around barbecues and chaise lounges. He did not see any fencing.”

In 1973 the county attempted to give the land to the state through a deed of conveyance, which stated that as part of a redevelopment plan a 12-foot walkway would be relocated to the seaward side of the 37-foot walk. However, the state declined to accept it because a title report showed the land was encumbered. The county then asked the property owners to quitclaim their interest in the 37-foot walk, but nothing was settled.

The issue came up again in 1980 when the Coastal Commission issued a permit to the HOA for construction of the seawall in front of the homes and replacement of eight feet of patio at the rear of each home. According to court documents, the commission’s comments on the permit state that the sea wall is located on “an existing 37-[foot] wide public easement. …Historically, however, this easement has been partially covered by a 20-[foot] concrete path (used by the residences as private decks), and it would appear that the remainder of the easement was covered by an ice-plant vegetated berm. The County is exploring their interests in the easement. …. Those members of the public who walk down to Seacliff State Beach will still be able to walk onto the beach at the end of the seawall without obstruction.”

But as years passed, barriers were erected and the Coastal Commission took notice around 2015. One homeowner

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

COVER STORY

received notice that her furniture and privacy walls obstructed the public’s access to the beach. Furthermore, she had an exterior staircase, which had been permitted by the county, that also encroached. If all this was not removed, she would face fines of up to $11,250 per day. More notices followed and court proceedings followed those. In 2018, the county forced the issue by removing fences and even a brick wall. According to a subsequent lawsuit filed by homeowners, after the county restored access in 2018 the foot traffic through the area grew unsafe. They sued to close access and for the county to pay damages.

The homeowners, all members of the Rio Del Mar Beach Island Homeowners’ Association, first won in court in 2022, but in December of 2023 the California Coastal Commission levied a fine of $5.2 million on the HOA for closing access. The Coastal Commission said state law required the

access to remain, despite what the court said. The homeowners sued and the fines were stayed until a decision on the 2022 lawsuit made its way through the appeals process. The homeowners are now left with legal bills, possible fines from the Coastal Commission, and face the loss of any money invested in improving what is technically their land, but can’t be fully used by them.

“We recognize the significant impact of our decision on the Homeowners, who have invested substantial resources into the 37-foot walk. We express no opinion as to any further proceedings in this matter that may occur to alleviate that impact,” the decision from the 6th Appellate Court reads. n

COVER PHOTO: Beach accest is blocked at Beach Drive “Island” in Rio Del Mar in April 2024.

Santa Cruz County Fair Deemed A Success

Attendance Down, but Community Spirit was High

By Jon Chown

The Santa Cruz County Fair’s attendance numbers were down about 10% from the previous year, but organizers are considering the event a big success.

“We had a tremendous run for all five days,” said Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Marketing Manager Ron Haedicke. “It was a little slow Wednesday and Thursday, but Friday we were packed, Saturday we were packed, and we had a pretty good Sunday. So it was a fantastic run.”

Haedicke credited the volunteers and the staff. “They outdid themselves,” he said.

Haedicke said organizers were concerned that gang violence at the Monterey County Fair, held on Labor Day weekend, might affect attendance in Santa Cruz, and it’s possible that it did. A brawl between at least five juveniles and two adults resulted in gunfire and marred Monterey’s event. Seven people have been arrested. Haedicke said having local law enforcement on site during the Santa Cruz County Fair, in addition to hired security, is crucial.

“We partner with local law enforcement and it’s a very safe environment here,” Haedicke said. “A number of people commented that they really liked seeing police enjoying themselves, and keeping everybody safe at the same time.”

Corralitos resident Ron Ince said he most enjoyed just seeing all the familiar faces and old friends. His favorite area of the fair is the Agricultural History Project and the Codina Center and Museum, which is looking better than ever with new exhibits and wall art.

“It’s Pajaro Valley’s history that’s on display and it makes you feel part of the community,” Ince said.

Despite the lower attendance numbers, Haedicke said that vendors reported great sales, and the Junior Livestock Auction might have set a record, exceeding $666,00 in sales, not including another $19,123 for the Heritage Hog.

“It’s great to see such community support,” Haedicke said.

Community support is exactly what Brad Hubbard, who organized the Corralitos Podres food both, noted. The booth featured sausages from Corralitos Market and was raising money for Corralitos 4-H and Corralitos Boy Scout Troop 599.

“It’s gone real well,” Hubbard said Friday night. “Everybody likes Corralitos Market’s sausage and people in the community like to support the Boys Scouts and 4-H.” n

The fair ran from Sept. 10-14. Haedicke said planning for next year’s county fair has already started.

Santa Cruz Open Studios Art Tour Marks 40th Year

Countywide Showcase of Artists Has Become a Major

The Santa Cruz Open Studios Art Tour, the county’s largest annual visual arts event, is marking its 40th year this October with a record-breaking roster of more than 340 participating artists working across 22 different mediums.

Hosted by Arts Council Santa Cruz

County, the month-long event invites the public to explore the creative process firsthand through self-guided visits to working artists’ studios across the region. Organizers say the event not only supports artists financially, but also strengthens the cultural identity of the community.

“Open Studios is more than just an event — it’s where our community gathers around creativity,” said Bree Karpavage, Open Studios and Tannery Arts Center Program Manager. “It’s about supporting local artists, investing in the cultural economy, and experiencing the joy of discovery.”

Studios will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the first three weekends of October:

• Oct. 4–5: South County artists

• Oct. 11–12: North County artists

• Oct. 18–19: All County weekend, featuring more than 250 artists

To help visitors plan their routes, the Arts Council offers several tools, including a printed guide distributed at more than 700 local locations starting in mid-September, a free mobile app (“Santa Cruz County Open Studios”), and an interactive map at santacruzopenstudios.com. Studio locations will also be marked with the tour’s iconic green directional signs.

Two preview exhibitions will give audiences a taste of what’s to come. The Santa Cruz Art League will host a countywide preview from Sept. 26 to Oct. 19, while Pajaro Valley Arts will showcase artists from Watsonville,

Passageways & Urban Landscapes

Artist #92 • 517 Riverview Dr., Capitola Weekends 1 and 3 (Oct 4-5 and 18-19) 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Event

Lorenzo Valley, Davenport and surrounding areas from Sept. 20 to Oct. 19.

Since its founding in 1985, the Open Studios tour has become a major economic and cultural force in the region. According to the national Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 study, the nonprofit arts sector generates more than $68 million annually in Santa Cruz County. Open Studios alone contributes more than $1 million in direct art sales each year.

“As we celebrate 40 years, we’re also looking ahead,” said Karpavage. “Our goal is to not only showcase extraordinary art, but to elevate the artists themselves and create lasting cultural impact.”

Organizers say the anniversary year is a chance to reflect on the tour’s legacy while also expanding access and visibility for new voices. A marketing toolkit is available for media, sponsors, and artists to help spread the word.

“This year, more than ever, we warmly invite everyone to discover, experience, and connect with the extraordinary creativity of Santa Cruz County,” said Mercedes Lewis, Communications Manager for Arts Council Santa Cruz County. n

By Bill Condy

LJolande ‘Jondi’ Gumz 1953 ~ 2025

ocal journalist and Scotts Valley resident Jolande Gumz died in her sleep at home on Sept. 11 after a long battle with cancer.

JondiShe was 72. Jondi was an editor and reporter at the Santa Cruz Sentinel for 27 years and

Remembering Jondi

was a truth seeker, and her platform the last five years was Times Publishing Group.

She never stopped digging — whether it was a local issue all the way to international news. She didn’t fear going down the rabbit hole to get answers, always faced controversy without hesitation.

She braved through Breast Cancer on her terms, trying many alternative medicines. She was fearless and she was strong; she stayed the course with her beliefs and passions.

Together we celebrated her victories and cried with her disappointments. She fought a good fight with the disease, eight years later she was ready to head home. She is so loved and will be so missed by TPG and so many others in our community.

at the Times Publishing Group for the last five years. Her beats included education, business, local government and community news. She served for four years on the Scotts Valley Unified School District Board and was active in the high school Parent Club.

She will be remembered for her goodness and kindness. She was a brilliant woman and her heart was always in the game.

If you want to know who she was read the Sentinel and TPG archives, where she left her mark.

— Patrice Edwards, Owner, Publisher,

Times Publishing Group, Inc.

Whatever Jondi did, whether it be helping out her co-workers or following up on a story, she gave her heart and soul to finish the task. Never complaining and being in the office late hours with no one else in the building, she always came through with whatever she was writing and it was always just perfect.

“Remembering Jondi” page 12

Born Sept. 2, 1953, in Madison, Wis., she was the daughter of Marcus and Norma Gumz. She grew up on the family farm near Baraboo, Wis., the eldest of eight children. She had fond memories of picking blackberries in the woods and not–so-fond memories of long hours tending the huge stills that rendered the family’s mint crop into oil for Wrigley’s chewing gum. One of her favorite childhood memories was a family road trip in a red Ford Galaxie 500 convertible when she was 12 years old, stopping at Washington, D.C. and the 1965 World’s Fair in New York.

She graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Ripon College, Wisconsin, earning her B.A. in economics. She spent her college summers working at a local amusement park costumed as Little Bo Peep, ironic for one whose personal heroines were Brenda Starr, Reporter

from the Sunday comic pages, and Dagne Taggert from Atlas Shrugged.

After taking journalism courses at Syracuse University in New York, she landed her first newspaper job as reporter/editor/ photographer at a small-town weekly in Millerton, NY. She worked 60-hour weeks for slave wages and loved every minute of it. The wages improved over the years, but she kept up the frenetic schedule for most of her working life.

She met Bill Condy, her husband-to-be, at a journalism conference where both were accepting awards.

“Jondi Gumz” page 12

COUNTY FAIR 2025

Feed it to the Judge!

County Fair’s Apple Pie Baking Contest is a Treat

By Jon Chown

It’s the dream job of the Santa Cruz County Fair, but you’ve got to take it slow. Judging the Apple Pie Baking Contest takes patience and a stomach accustomed to sugar.

“I’ve been preparing for this all my life,” said Maria Vasquez, who works for Driscoll’s when she’s not judging pie contests. “Apple pie was always a family favorite growing up, and now I have friends that bake apple pies. I love apple pie!”

On opening day of the fair, behind a table on the Paddy Smith Park Stage, Vasquez and her judging partner Marcus Mendiola had a pile of paper plates in front of them, bottles of water, about a dozen plastic forks, a big stack of napkins, and pens and pencils to mark their scores.

Vasquez said she considers the color, the flakiness of the crust—and the flavor. “That’s the most important, of course,” she said.

Her judging partner, Marcus Mendiola, who works of the Pajaro Valley Water Management Agency, was also a fan of apple pie, which is very important if you’re a judge. The two would taste more than 20 pies by the day’s end.

“It’s a lot of pie,” Mendiola said. “It’s tempting to eat more sometimes, but they warned us not to.”

Besides apple pie, both are big fans of the Santa Cruz County Fair. Both were raised locally and have been coming to the fair since since they were children.

“It’s something I look forward to every year,” Mendiola said of the fair. “It’s the happiest week of the year for me.”

The judges would decide Santa Cruz resident Janice Weaver’s pie was the best. It was her fourth victory since 2019. Oliver Klein won the Youth division.

Here is Weaver’s recipe, posted by the Farm Bureau after her 2021 victory.

Janice Weaver’s Apple Pie

Whisk

dry ingredients together. Cut butter into flour in little pieces. Add cold water, and combine until holding together. Divide in half, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate at least one hour.

Filling 4-5 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and sliced 1 T lemon juice

1 C sugar

1 tsp cinnamon 1/8 t salt

1 T cornstarch

Roll out one half of dough and fit into 9” pie pan.

Toss filling ingredients together and pour into shell. Roll out second half of dough for top of pie.

Crimp it together, add vents, and bake at 400 for 40-45 minutes. n

Banff Mountain Film Festival Returns

Santa Cruz Rio Theatre Hosting Adventure-Filled Screening

The Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour is set to bring a night of breathtaking cinematography to the Rio Theatre on Oct. 11 at 7 p.m., with pro-

“Remembering Jondi” from page 9 I will never forget Jondi — her kind heart and honesty will be something that I will remember forever.

— Brooke Valentine, Sales, Times Publishing Group, Inc.

Jondi is the third editor I’ve lost in my career. Each one has been more difficult than the last. One I lost quickly, the most recent two have both been to long illness. They all left me with the difficult task of finding words … the right ones don’t exist.

Jondi left her mark on TPG. Her unique outlook and drive to KNOW defined all she did. She didn’t have a 9-to-5 job. She had a lifestyle. It defined the topics that interested her. It defined how she did her research. It defined how she shared what she knew. And it defined how she interacted with those she worked with.

ceeds supporting the Santa Cruz Mountains Trail Stewardship.

“Banff” page 21

Working with Jondi was an amazing experience and I’m better for having done so … and I’m still adjusting to her absence. She was still giving us heads up about new stories the weekend before she passed. She’s one of a kind, and I’ll miss her.

— Michael Oppenheimer, Layout & Design, Times Publishing Group, Inc.

Jondi was so much more than her title as editor. She was a true truth seeker, someone who believed deeply in the power of honesty. But beyond her work, she was a kind and caring soul who always made those around her feel valued.

I was fortunate not only to work with her but to know her personally — she never failed to show warmth and compassion, taking the time to make both me and my daughter feel genuinely loved.

— Camisa Composti, Associate Publisher, Times Publishing Group, Inc.

“Jondi Gumz” from page 9

They were married in 1983, when both were working at the Bridgeport Post in Connecticut. In 1992, a few months after fleeing their burning house in Norwalk, Conn. in the middle of the night, they used the insurance settlement to finance a move to California.

Jondi joined the Santa Cruz Sentinel as assistant city editor.

Her first love was always reporting. She enjoyed talking to people and telling their stories. Her work won numerous national, regional and local awards and citations, including a Casey Medal for her series on changes in bilingual education. She endowed a college scholarship at her alma mater, Baraboo High School, for students pursuing writing careers.

She retired from the Sentinel in 2019 and spent a year deciding that retirement was boring. She went back to work for the Times Publishing Group, which covers community news in Aptos, Capitola, Soquel and Scotts Valley.

She was active in the Ripon College’s

alumni association and served as a class representative. She recently helped organize her class’s 50 year reunion, which she refused to miss despite her worsening illness. She was an avid basketball fan, thinking nothing of driving to Sacramento for a championship game if a local high school team were involved, and a Cal Bears devotee. She loved to play bridge, a Gumz family trait. She travelled often to various conferences and prided herself on scoring the lowest airfares available, no matter how long the layovers involved. She took wonderful photographs, especially during family camping trips to national parks. She is survived by her husband, a son and daughter-in-law, Bryan and Dayna Condy; a stepdaughter, Shannon Porter; sisters Joy Gumz, Melanie Gumz and Diane Gates; brothers Matthew Gumz and Mark Gumz, and six grandchildren. Two sisters, Sheryl Albers and Heidi James, died before her. n

A memorial service will be held on Oct. 4, at 2 p.m. at ReGeneration Church, 1500 Green Hills Rd. Scotts Valley.

A liyA h S tudio – E l E vAt E d P E r S on A l t r A ining Healing With Movement

By Tad Stearn

Walking into Aliyah Studio, a GYROTONIC® fitness studio in Capitola, one immediately feels a sense of calm and tranquility. The space is warm and inviting, finished with natural materials, wood floors, and subtle lighting. Large pieces of figurative art and photography adorn the walls, while dog beds for Apple, Aliyah’s beloved Bernedoodle, add to the mellow, welcoming vibe.

But this is no gallery or day spa. The unique equipment at the center of the room makes clear that this is a place for mindful physical training and healing movement. “I want everybody to walk out of the studio feeling better than when they came in,” says Aliyah. “If they’re feeling bad, they’ll feel better when they leave—both emotionally and physically.”

Aliyah began teaching movement over 20 years ago in Los Angeles beginning with her love for yoga—first as a practitioner and later as an instructor. An active lifestyle over the years which included dance, horseback riding, hiking, yoga and skiing eventually led to some physical therapy where Aliyah was introduced to Pilates. The results were so positive that she became a certified Pilates instructor.

In 2008, during her Pilates training, Aliyah discovered the GYROTONIC® Method. Captivated by its fluid, restorative movements, she immersed herself in the practice and soon became a certified teacher. Before long, many of her Pilates clients transitioned into Gyrotonic work as

well. “Like me, once people become accustomed to the method, that’s all they want to do.”

The GYROTONIC® Method (equipment-based) and GYROKINESIS® (done on stools or mats) were developed in the 1980s by Romanianborn Juliu Horvath, a principal dancer with the Romanian National Ballet and later the Houston Ballet. After careerending injuries, Horvath created “Yoga for Dancers”—the foundation of Gyrokinesis—and later designed the pulley tower and other equipment that evolved into today’s Gyrotonic Expansion System, now practiced by more than 13,000 trainers in over 80 countries. Notable Gyrotonic practitioners include Sting, Lady Gaga, tennis champion Andy Murray, and world-class surfer Kelly Slater.

The Gyrotonic Method is a unique movement system designed to move the body beyond its limitations. Its spiraling, three-dimensional movements flow naturally, building balance, strength, and flexibility without jarring or compression. The sequences help prevent aggravating old injuries while supporting healing and longevity. “I can’t say enough about the

system,” says Aliyah. “I’m passionate about it. The natural, flowing movements make it very enjoyable and applicable to real life. Clients are able to build a stronger core, strengthen their muscles and gain more flexibility. The results are significant.”

Aliyah enjoys working with a range of clients. This includes people who want to rehabilitate chronic pain or injuries or those who are simply interested in maintaining mobility and vitality for a higher quality of life.

Gyrotonic exercise is very effective due to its adaptability. The equipment can be tailored to each person’s body type and ability. “Clients get sessions completely customized to their needs—because every body is different,” Aliyah explains. She works with people of all ages and conditions, from those managing back pain to clients with Parkinson’s or Multiple Sclerosis. One surfer who thought he’d never ride again is now back on the waves. Her clients tend to stay with her for years, most coming twice a week, some even more. Aliyah describes herself as a “movement educator” rather than just an instructor, teaching core principles of

safe and effective movement. “There’s a correct way to move, and that’s how you prevent injuries. My most basic goal is for clients to build or maintain muscle mass and flexibility throughout the body.”

While other studios may incorporate Gyrotonic equipment, Aliyah believes hers is the only studio in Santa Cruz County dedicated solely to the method. She considers herself a “Gyrotonic purist,” seeing the practice not as an end but as a way to enhance life outside the studio. “What you do in here makes you better at what you do out there,” she says. “For some, that means sports performance. For others, it’s being able to pick up their grandkids or enjoy the little things that matter most. I love helping make that possible.”

Aliyah is certified in Gyrotonic, Gyrokinesis, Pilates, yoga, and meditation. Aliyah Studio is located just one block from Gayle’s Bakery in Capitola. Consultations and sessions are available by appointment. n

Aliyah Studio 716 Capitola Avenue, Suite F Capitola, CA 95010 831.915.6069 | aliyah@aliyahstudio.com

A Tradition of Giving Back Marc Monte Says Foundation Will Last Beyond Him

By Jon Chown

The 31st Monte Foundation Fireworks Extravaganza will light up the skies on Sunday, Oct. 12. Marc Monte, president and CEO of Deluxe Foods in Aptos, not only started the local tradition and continues to make it happen, but he’s also guaranteed its future far beyond his lifetime.

“It’s going to survive. My whole estate is going to the Monte Foundation. When I’m gone, the projects that are going to be done in the Monte Foundation’s name are going to be huge. When I’m dead, it’s going to take on a whole life of its own.”

Monte is just 61 and plans many more happy years ahead, but he is happy to know that what he has built will not just fade away. By leaving his life’s wealth to his charity, he secures the future of the fireworks show, the McGregor Pump Track and Skateboard Park in Capitola, the Monte Fields at the Aptos Polo Grounds, the Polo Grounds Bike Park and more.

“I like to do projects that help kids in the community,” he said.

The fireworks show is special to Monte because he loves fireworks himself.

“When I was a kid, the city of Capitola did fireworks on the Fourth of July. I loved

that!” He said.

This year’s event will start as soon as it gets dark. It will be about a 20-minute show and Monte said it will be a good one. He

pays about $60,000 for the show and said the company also donates some rockets.

“It’s a reminder once a year that there’s a family in the community that did well and gives back to the community,” he said. “I just want to remind people that there’s a family that cares.”

Monte’s parents Rudolph and Doris Monte opened Deluxe Foods in Aptos in 1977. It was ahead of its time, offering highend groceries, a floral department, bakery and great service. It’s been a success since its opening.

The first Monte Foundation Fireworks event was originally held at Seacliff State Park in 1996, tickets were sold and it became a tradition. Due to permitting issues, in 2013 it was moved to Capitola and made free.

Monte said if an issue ever arises about fireworks in Capitola, the event would likely be moved to Watsonville or Scotts Valley, both of which have expressed interest.

“Monte Foundation” page 16

Open your options.

CalPERS members, this Open Enrollment, choose a plan that gives you access to Dignity Health.

Getting where you need to be in life is easier when the path is open to you. When it comes to health care, the Open Enrollment process puts you in control. As you’re comparing health plans this season, consider the advantages of one that connects you to Dignity Health, the largest physician network in Santa Cruz County. Like our more than 200 primary and specialty care providers located in more than 100 locations throughout the region. All backed up by Dominican Hospital’s nationally recognized programs for heart, cancer, obstetrics and other specialties. Find out more at DignityHealth.org/CalPERS.

INDEPENDENT LIVING

ASSISTED LIVING

MEMORY CARE

PAIRING PEOPLE WITH PURPOSE

A wine tasting event.

Meet the team, ask questions, and learn about The Porter, & senior living at a casual, fun event.

October 10 or October 24 | 12 pm to 2 pm

Soquel Vineyards, 8063 Glen Haven Road, Soquel RSVP to Lisa at 831-855-8168 one week prior to even t.

Murphy’s Crossing Finally Repaired

Road is a Crucial Connection for Ag Community

More than 1,400 autos use Murphy’s Crossing Road to cut across from Riverside Drive to San Juan Road, and a lot of that is agricultural traffic. For many years the road has rather resembled the moon’s surface and a lunar lander might have been the best vehicle to transverse it, but on Sept. 18 elected officials and the business community celebrated its

Speaking about the project behind a podium set up at the corner of Murphy’s Crossing and Riverside Drive, Santa Cruz County Supervisor Rafeal Lopez said the project took about seven years. Securing the funding was difficult, but well worth the

“Monte Foundation” from page 15

Monte would also like to have a fireworks show for the upcoming Fourth of July, which will mark the nation’s 250th anniversary.

“It will be the largest show I’ve ever done if that is approved,” he said.

Monte said his Catholic upbringing influenced him to care for others. The main lesson he received from the nuns and priests at his catholic school was to help as much you can.

“I never had children, so I kind of feel like the community is my child,” he said. “I was thinking this morning about the Monte Foundation. I own Deluxe Foods

effort. “This road is a lifeline that connects the community,” he said.

Murphy’s Crossing is heavily used by local farm operations, but the extremely bumpy road could bruise fruit and was certainly slow. Dennis Webb, president of the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau, said thousands of pounds of produce, lots of ag equipment, and ag workers use it as a vital crossing.

“For such a short, two-lane, 1.3 mile drive, Murphy Crossing has been the unsung hero of agricultural commerce between Santa Cruz and Monterey counties for decades,” Webb said.

Lopez noted that the project took just 2 weeks to complete and the road was shut for just four days. n

as well and as long as I’m alive I’m going to help, and the store is going to help this community.” n

COMMUNITY NEWS

Chamber Announces 2025 Annual Awards

Santa Cruz County Executive Officer Carlos Palacios will be recognized by the Aptos Chamber of Commerce with a Lifetime Achievement Award at it’s 2025 Annual Awards Dinner & Auction on Nov. 14 at the Seascape Beach Resort.

tainable practices, Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets have enriched the community by connecting residents with healthy, locally grown food.

Organization of the Year

Cabrillo Stroke Center is celebrated for their mission of rehabilitation, education, and compassionate care, Cabrillo Stroke Center has made a profound difference in the lives of countless families.

Man of the Year

Palacios took the position in 2017 after serving as Watsonville’s city manager for 20 years. He announced in June that he will retire in December. Palacios oversaw the creation of the county’s first Strategic Plan. He is also credited with improving the county’s disaster response preparedness. Other awardees are:

Business of the Year

Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets is being acknowledged for their commitment to local agriculture and sus-

Bob Ridino is being honored for his outstanding leadership, philanthropy, and service, Ridino’s contributions extend beyond business to strengthen and uplift the community.

“Chamber Awards” page 21

NEWS

PVUSD Board Holds Emergency Meeting Brown Act Violations Force

Trustees to Revote on Past Issues

By Jon Chown

WATSONVILLE — The Pajaro Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees were forced to reapprove a host of actions going back months during an emergency meeting held Sept. 17 or face a possible lawsuit for repeated violations of the Brown Act.

Watsonville resident Marta Buliach brought the matters to the attention of the board with a series of letters pointing dozens of possible violations of the Brown Act. Many had to do with participating in board meetings remotely.

For instance, Board Trustee Misty Navarro attended the June 11 meeting by remote while she was on vacation. However, an absence due to vacation does not give “just cause” for remote participation, according to a letter from Buliach. Also, when participating remotely, the exact location must be noted in the agenda and a notice must be placed at the site. That issue came up while Trustee Carol Turley participated remotely on June 25 while at a work conference in Calgary.

According to a letter from Buliach, Turley illegally participated because also did not have just cause to participate remotely, and did not post a notice where she was participating remotely.

“Emergency Meeting” page 21

Drone Conference Returns to Seascape Neighborhood Concerned Over Treatment of Public Park

By Tad Stearn

Skydio, a San Mateo-based aerial drone system designer and manufacturer, returned to Seascape Beach Resort and Seascape County Park in September for its third annual product demonstration event.

Dubbed Ascend ’25, this is the second consecutive year Skydio has held its late summer showcase at Seascape.

In addition to this year’s conference held on Sept. 17 and 18, Skydio hosted a “community day” on Sept. 16 at Seascape County Park.

Billed as a public outreach event, Skydio staff provided information about how their drones work and how they’re used, answered questions and provided the public a demonstration of the firm’s latest vehicles. With the help of free donuts and coffee drinks, the event attracted dozens of neighbors and onlookers. Santa Cruz SPCA also joined in with a canine adoption event.

Skydio focuses on specialized drone applications and systems such as drone as first responder (DFR) for police and fire support services, public safety, utility and infrastructure inspection, national security/ military and similar professional and governmental uses. Their systems use unique robotic docking stations that house and futuristically “hatch” the drones remotely. These are not your average recreational drones, and they are not currently available for sale to the general public.

Based on the level of activity and number

of people in attendance it appears to have been another successful event for Skydio, Seascape Beach Resort and the local economy. According to Joshua Chirinos, managing director of the resort, Skydio essentially filled the entire facility, with additional attendees staying at other local hotels and patronizing local restaurants.

Event Activities on Public Park Land

Industry conferences, with session breakout rooms and banquet lunches, normally go unnoticed within the confines of a hotel or conference center. But given the nature of Skydio’s products,- and the need for an open air location to showcase them, this event is much more visible and interactive than the average corporate event. The

need for additional area and airspace for drone flight makes Seascape Resort and the adjacent county park an attractive location. But it was that use of the public park space that had some neighbors concerned about the size and scale of the event, as well as potential short- and long-term impacts to the park.

Seascape County Park consists of approximately eight acres of public open space that includes trails, a playground, and open coastal meadow. The public park and private resort parcels blend together seamlessly along the coastal bluff, a testament to good planning and California’s coastal access policies.

“Neighborhood Concerned” page 22

“Banff” from page 12

The festival, which originates each fall in Banff, Alberta, is one of the most prestigious mountain film and book festivals in the world. The World Tour features a curated selection of audience favorites and awardwinning films from more than 400 entries submitted annually.

This year’s “Adventure Night” at the Rio will showcase a lineup from the Tour’s Sandstone playlist, highlighting stories of rock climbing, mountaineering, whitewater rafting, mountain biking and more.

The 2024-2025 World Tour promises to take audiences to remote locations and deep into the human spirit, with films exploring environmental issues, cultural stories and adrenaline-fueled pursuits.

Films scheduled for screening include:

• The Streif (Austria, 4 min): Mountain biker Fabio Wibmer returns to snow, crashing the preparations for the world’s most legendary ski race.

• River Mamma (USA, 11 min): A touching story of a single mother and lifelong raft guide raising a goth daughter who

“Emergency Meeting” from page 19

Actions the board took regarding an apology letter to Allyson Tintiangco-Cubales were especially questioned. TintiangcoCubales was a paid consultant providing ethnic studies curriculum whose contract was cancelled in 2023 after accusations that the curriculum was antisemitic. Two years later, the new board voted to renew her contract and send an apology letter. The vote to send a letter, however, was made without it being an item on the agenda, a violation of the Brown Act. The board’s actions to correct this just made matters worse, according to Buliach’s letter. Other complaints involved the minutes being inaccurate, motions being made improperly, and improper roll calls, or lack thereof.

“Chamber Awards” from page 18 Woman of the Year

couldn’t care less about rivers. Advisory: Coarse language.

• 109 Below (USA, 14 min): Winner of the 2024 Best Film in Mountain Sports, this short chronicles elite rescue volunteers risking it all to save others.

• Keep It Burning (Spain, 32 min): A family of climbers attempts a rare free ascent of Pakistan’s Nameless Tower in the remote Karakoram range.

• Welcome to the Pit (Canada, 15 min): A father’s effort to build Yellowknife’s only rope tow transforms a community. Advisory: Coarse language.

• Dolomites (Tour Edit) (France, 33 min): Kilian Bron and his team free solo mountain bike the steep, historic trails of the Dolomites.

• Undammed (USA, 17 min): Yurok tribal attorney Amy Bowers Cordalis fights to restore the Klamath River, blending environmental justice and cultural resilience.

Organizers encourage attendees to check content advisories before purchasing tickets. n

More info and ticket details can be found at riotheatre.com.

“All of these actions have confused the public and degrades public transparency,” Buliach told the board of trustees.

Attorney for the PVUSD Board Sarah Leviton Kaatz, a partner at Lozano Smith, said that after a detailed analysis, the district determined that some violations did occur and that some of the accusations did not amount to violations of the Brown Act.

“While we don’t believe the actions taken at all the meetings need to be redone … we didn’t see the harm in bringing them up again,” she said.

As a result, the board put 161 items on the consent agenda, basically approving most every decision made over the past several months all over again.

The meeting was not televised or filmed for a later broadcast. n

Barbara Palmer is recognized for her leadership, vision, and dedication at the local, state and national level over housing issues and for her support of the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary. Palmer has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to building a stronger and more vibrant Aptos.

Community Recognition Award

Central Fire District Chief Jason Nee & Cabrillo College President Matt Wetstein are being honored for their exceptional leadership and service. Their dedication to public safety, education, and community

well-being has brought lasting benefits to Aptos and the greater Santa Cruz County area.

The community is invited to join in celebrating these remarkable honorees at the 2025 Annual Awards Dinner & Auction. The event is being held at The Seascape Beach Resort on Nov. 14 from 5-9 p.m.

Event details, ticket information, and sponsorship opportunities are available at www.aptoschamber.com. n

SANTA CRUZ

“Neighborhood Concerned” from page 20

For Skydio’s Ascend ’24 event last year, a large event tent was erected on elevated wooden platforms in the park’s meadow. The elevated platforms served as a level floor for the tent with minimal impact to the meadow below. These temporary improvements took over a week to complete, involving a host of forklifts, scissor lifts and other equipment to haul materials for the event tent back and forth through the bumpy meadow.

By comparison, this year’s preparations within the park had a different feel and larger footprint. Instead of a single large tent, Skydio erected an open air amphitheater in the park constructed from stacked steel shipping containers with drone docking stations mounted on top. Smaller support tents were set up behind it. The amphitheater structure, named “Dronehenge” by Skydio, included a stage with lighting and sound systems, video screens, and related equipment for demonstrations and presentations. When completed it resembled something akin to a cross between an Arctic research station and a camp at Burning Man.

While viewed more as a neighborhood curiosity last summer, the scale of this year’s preparations caught the attention, and a little heat, from some local residents. Leading up to the conference neighbors voiced concerns about the duration and hours of construction, drone noise, drones hovering over homes, compromised public use of the park, view impacts and the general appearance of the shipping containers. One concerned community member even posted an (anonymous) open letter at locations around the park, addressed to the county and other local officials, objecting to use of the park by Skydio because drones can be used as weapons of war.

Complaints were received by both the county and the resort. According to Sarah Shea, Parks Superintendent for Santa Cruz County Parks, Skydio obtained a special event permit for use of the park, with a stipulation that the park be returned to preevent conditions. But due to complaints received regarding blowing dust and dirt during construction, a dust mitigation plan was also added on Sept. 9. From initial setup to tear-down, construction work and the event itself were ongoing within the park for a little more than two weeks. Other special events in the park, such as the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s, typically last no more than a weekend.

Portions of Park Meadow Plowed Prior to Event

Before the Skydio event construction even started, it was the mowing and disking of a portion of the park’s meadow by the county that first caught the attention of neighbors and park users. Sometime around Aug. 18 notices were placed at the park’s entrance points that “foxtail mitigation” would be conducted Aug. 19-22, and that the fields (the meadow) would be closed during those dates.

The county’s work consisted of mowing and disking about two acres of grassland meadow near the center of the park with heavy equipment. This transformed the grassland area into a smooth, uniform surface with very fine, exposed soil. It also eliminated some small trails. When asked why this particular area was tilled and not others, county staff responded that some areas in the park are designated as protected wildflower meadow and therefore off limits from this type of earthwork. Parks staff also stated that the grading and leveling was needed to protect maintenance equipment from damage during regular mowing and main -

tasks.

County staff maintain that the earthwork for foxtail mitigation and the construction for the drone event on the newly-leveled field were unrelated actions. However, the timing of those actions occurring so close together appeared a little too convenient to some skeptical residents, as that smoothly graded area now directly connected the park’s paved parking lot with the Dronehenge construction site. Whether intentional or not, this condition essentially created a more level, but very dusty, haul road for trucks and other heavy vehicles hauling the shipping containers and other equipment in and out of the park.

Residents have also questioned the need for the foxtail mitigation and expressed concerns for the long term health of the meadow. One neighbor attached a laminated sheet next to the county’s work notice, raising concerns about the birds, reptiles and mammal species present and the potential degradation of the meadow habitat caused by the tilling. To others, the problem was simply the lack of adequate communication and transparency about scope and timing of these activities occurring within the park.

Aptos native Antonio S. walks his dogs in the park every day. He’s more concerned with the long term plan for beautification of the park. “I’m not sure what the ultimate plan is, but the easiest solution would be to restore the fields to a natural conditions, with native species”, he suggested. “It would be nice in the spring if the fields were seeded with wildflowers.”

The conference is over and the temporary structures are gone. The park remains beat up from foxtail mitigation and truck traffic. The scale and duration of the event has some questioning if this type of activity and temporary construction

should be allowed for a private function, or if it will open the door for similar events.

Neighbor Ellen Martinez, a 25-year Seascape resident, thinks it’s terrific that the resort attracted such a large event. However, she isn’t comfortable with using the county park to construct large structures, even if they’re temporary.

“My husband and I enjoy the tranquility of Seascape Park. The sunsets and ocean views from the bluff are spectacular,” she said. “But the drone conference and the massive buildings that were erected completely wiped out the peace and serenity of the park for two weeks. Looking ahead, the resort needs to construct any required buildings for conferences on their resort property, and leave the park for the residents of the county to enjoy.” n

“Looking ahead, the resort needs to construct any required buildings for conferences on their resort property, and leave the park for the residents of the county to enjoy.”

— Ellen Martinez, Seascape Resident

SENIOR BENEFITS INSURANCE SERVICES

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Experimentation and Exploration

By Joe Ortiz

Many artists use different techniques of exploration and experimentation as forms of creative archeology to dig up new images and conceptual ideas. Through the use of rote practices, whimsical games, and arbitrary prompts, artists can learn to access new modes of expression.

For example, art teachers often encourage artists in their formative years to explore different mediums. Others advise experimentation with tools, drawing techniques, and image variation in order to discover new surface treatments. Instructors suggest exploring a variety of subjects, making quick thumbnail drawings, rapid sketches, and detailed studies.

report. In this way, the exercise becomes the work.

Mix it up. Play around. Search for a discovery. Do these explorations in whatever new craft you might pick, understanding that the practices are not limited to just drawing. They can inspire everyday creative thinking as well: redesigning your garden, for example, or rearranging paintings on that special wall in your breakfast nook.

In theater—where “workshopping” is often practiced as a discovery technique— directors often encourage actors to be spontaneous in every encounter on stage. They instruct actors—during different performances—to use a variety of gestures and physical responses to their fellow actors’ dialogue and movements. This adventuresome attitude can help make a scene new every time. For many artists and non-artist alike, breaking old habits helps to foster spontaneity—which we can hear echoed in an old Zen saying: “You can’t step into the same river twice.”

What We Can Do Now

Mostwriting exercises are arbitrary, using examples, devices, and approaches unrelated to the student’s own work. But working artists, singers, and writers often invent personal drills, exercises, and experiments drawn from their current project, thrusting themselves right back into their own novel, story, or poem. Or as a CFO, one might use such techniques to draft a financial

Novelist John Gardner said that beginning writers can do, through exercises, what practicing writers do as a matter of course. If we strive to put ourselves in experimental states of mind, the practice becomes second nature. We have less fear of making the wrong choice. In early rehearsals, many directors tell actors to throw everything they’ve got into the scene to see what sticks. When the director sees the performance he’ll tell you what truly works. And when exploration and experimentation become habits, every action taken can fulfill an artistic quest to access the unconscious in striving to “make it up new” every time.

Explorations Various Artists Make Daily

• Knitters fashion a swatch, a small sample of the full work,

• Painters make rapid sketches, thumbnail drawings, and compositional studies of a painting before starting a plein air piece,

• Sculptors shape individual, life-size studies of noses, ears, or lips before embarking on a fully sculpted portrait,

• Musicians explore the chords, arpeggios, and scales of a new song before a first performance,

CFOs draw up a list of pros and cons to find new approaches to a business model.

Remember that the value of the finished work is only minimally important when compared to the liberated state of mind one can achieve through experimentation.

From My Own Experience

In my first ten years of painting, I wasn’t willing to sell any of my work, because I was still experimenting to discover my own style. For me, this conscious state of exploration— which seemed so foreign at first—gradually became more natural, a way of working without having to think.

Make up some experiments of your own.

n

•••

Reader response: I’d love to hear your comments and questions. Email me at joe@gocapitola.com

FEATURED COLUMNIST

The Hidden Health Risks of Loneliness and How to Reconnect

By Cindy Hill-Ford

This summer, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared social disconnection a significant yet often overlooked global health threat. The warning encompasses both loneliness—a subjective feeling of isolation—and social isolation, which refers to an objective lack of contact with others. Together, these conditions can devastate quality of life, increase disease risk, and shorten lifespans.

The COVID-19 pandemic has made reconnecting particularly challenging. After months of online interactions and physical separation, many people find their social skills have atrophied, creating additional barriers to re-engagement—especially for those already struggling with loneliness.

Who’s Most at Risk?

Loneliness affects people across all life stages, manifesting in both situational and chronic forms. Major life transitions, grief, and mental health struggles often trigger periods of disconnection.

Older adults face unique hurdles in postpandemic reconnection, particularly those who lacked established routines or communities before COVID. Meanwhile, teens and young adults report unprecedented levels of loneliness and uncertainty about how to rebuild social connections. Caregivers, too, frequently experience isolation due to the demanding nature of their responsibilities.

The Path Forward: Rebuilding Connection

The antidote to loneliness lies in relationships of all kinds. Engaging in supportive groups, activities, exercise classes, or therapy can provide powerful pathways to connection. Remember that meaningful relationships aren’t limited to people—time spent with animals or in nature can also nurture a sense of belonging.

Kids’ Books

Building a strong relationship with yourself is equally vital. Learning to enjoy your own company creates a foundation for healthier connections with others.

Practical Steps to Reconnect

Start with what you know. Take inventory of relationships where you’ve experienced genuine connection. Reach out to these people or explore new ways to engage, such as joining classes or groups. The first few attempts may feel uncomfortable, but consistency typically makes these interactions more natural and rewarding.

Practice micro-connections daily. Small interactions can have big impacts. Greet a neighbor, chat with a cashier, or ask a local business owner how they’re doing. These brief moments often reveal shared experiences or interests that can blossom into deeper conversations over time.

Be patient with yourself. Social skills are learned, not innate. While some people seem naturally at ease, most of us must push through discomfort and keep practicing. Not every attempt at connection will succeed— and that’s perfectly normal.

Breaking the Silence

Talking openly about loneliness helps normalize the experience and often sparks creative solutions. When we name the problem, we create space for healing our communities, one relationship at a time.

The journey from isolation to connection isn’t always linear, but it’s always worth taking.

Forgiveness — an Act of Repair

Risa D’Angeles

Autumn (Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius) is the dark half of the year — a time of preparation for the birth of the new light at Winter Solstice. In preparation (and to purify) for the solstice, the Jewish Festivals of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur (October 1) call humanity to contemplate forgiveness. It is written that God looks on and, should we forgive, our names are written in the Book of Life.

The entire world experienced an extraordinary act of forgiveness at the memorial of Charlie Kirk. A deep shocked silence followed that act of forgiveness. It is good to know the value, magnitude, potency and effects of forgiveness.

Forgiveness is a means towards freedom. Forgiveness repairs, heals and restores harmony to our lives. Why forgive? All of humanity stumbles and falls, capable of human error. We make mistakes, fail to understand, lack love, are impatient, felt superior, are angry, experience cruelty and hatred and we have all hurt others. In these interactions we are bound to each other energetically. Forgiveness loosens and breaks those bonds.

from the heart of the matter. In forgiveness, we seek freedom from sorrow, for self and others.

When one forgives, everyone involved becomes free. Forgiveness is a divine attribute not yet fully understood or cultivated in humanity. The Wisdom teachings tell us in order to enter into the new Age of Aquarius (era of humanity, truth and freedom), we must “relinquish and bless the things that lie behind and, with love, press forward and upward.”

Forgiveness is not condoning or excusing harm. Forgiveness is based on the Will to Good, on Goodwill and a desire to relinquish bonds of limitation.

Forgiveness means “to give for.” It is a sacrifice (sacred act), a coming

ARIES

Something appears, is seen, recognized, brought to balance and creates an interlude in your relationship(s). Perhaps you begin to realize the need for Goodwill in order to have true Right Relations with those who love you. Perhaps you recognize it is through relationships your true self emerges because relationships are where we learn the most. They are an I/Thou situation, a state where we learn to balance and harmonize the self with the other. Relationships provide structure and discipline and lead to true intimacy.

TAURUS

There are times when others tell you their deepest wounds, sadnesses and needs. Sometimes you can’t hear or understand them. But now your needs, usually hidden away, unknown to you, and thus hardly ever tended, are emerging via your health. You want to share how you feel. Changes, small and subtle, begin to manifest in how you express yourself, who you speak with, and your hopes, wishes, desires and wants. Since your usual way is silence, everyone, surprised, listens attentively.

GEMINI

Who is your family? What does family mean to you? Perhaps family means criticism and judgments. Perhaps family means gardens, teas, flowers and nourishment. Whatever family signifies for you, it is time to create your own family, to build a family life with balance and love, discipline and rules, kindness and communication. We have times in our lives when we can recreate certain things, bringing them into manifestation. This time is now for you. You remember how to do this from past creative lifetimes.

CANCER

A larger more expansive sense of self is unfolding. You’re both in the world and not in the world, at home and working all at the same time. Family is close by and yet they are not. You hold them within your heart. Both you and they have spiritual work to complete. It may not be in the same geographical region. A new set of realities concerning resources appears in the near future. Know that your specific and particular skills are a deeply needed resource. They nurture and nourish and we are grateful.

Forgiveness is the very breath of life — the giving of all to all and for all. Forgiveness sets up a rhythm of great potency — that of love. Forgiveness creates at-one-ment, a balance, harmony and freedom.

Our prayers — “Lord, we pray that we are cleansed from all sins (unskillfulness, ignorance, inabilities, unknowings, hurting others, judgments, criticisms, non-virtuous ways of being that create separations, etc.). Forgive us, Lord, as we too forgive.” Offering forgiveness, we can know God has written our name in the Book of Life. And when we forgive, we “become like the angels.” Freedom is the keynote of our nation’s founding.

Read Risa’s daily postings at Risa D’Angeles FB page & https://nightlightnews.org/daily-postings/

LEO

A tradition, perhaps religious, perhaps intellectual, becomes important to you. It is highlighted in order to bring forth from you a study, an action (Mars), a discipline and structure (Saturn) and a ritual (Uranus) that can bring order and stability to your inner (and outer) life. It also anchors something new. Perhaps you are remembering a parent, a teacher, someone who, older and wiser than you, instilled a sense of ethics, morals and justice and treated you as an equal. Who is this person? How would you honor them?

VIRGO

You have resources in common with another, with others? There is a reason for this. Resources don’t only refer to money. They include values, possessions held in common, intimacy, interaction and relationship. There is a question about relationships and perhaps a feeling of what to do next, how to move forward and, perhaps, grief? Remember the beginnings of your relationships and how valuable they were. Can you find (and feel) this again? What seems so far away is usually what is really close by.

LIBRA

The Sun is in Libra and wishing you a happy birthday. This is an important passage of time, a growing up and maturing developmental stage. There is a challenge to change, frustrations with time issues. There are shadows and limitations and pressures. Through all of these, wisdom is seeking to guide you. There will be times of absolute slowing down and times where the pace is accelerated. Mercury, the messenger, is also in Libra now. Stand in the Sun and ask what the messages from the gods are for you.

SCORPIO

You have a deep, passionate desires to know all the mysteries of life, and although your focus may be directed at others, the reality of your search is for yourself. You will attempt to create a new image that better defines who you know yourself to be. Visualize a partnership created between your emotions, intellect, body and Soul. Emotions will be high for a while (Mars in Scorpio), people may shy away should you display your true depths of feelings. Assess who’s safe, who listens, who understands, who will stand with you always.

SAGITTARIUS

It’s important to acknowledge your religious roots (family lineage, etc.) and begin to study the depths of the teachings from the viewpoint that religious teachings are guidelines that illumine and direct our life. This may sound old-fashioned to turn toward religion. However, two major lights are in that sector now, and they provide us with the suggestion for study. Another place to be is within a state of contemplation, solitude and seclusion. With lots of music, movement and food.

CAPRICORN

Life and responsibilities are busy these days. Maintain a consistent schedule of vitamins, minerals and adrenal support. A season has ended as a new season begins. It has a connection to the harvest festival, gathering the fruits of the summer’s season into a root cellar darkness. It’s time to begin fall and winter planting. I suggest a study of Bio-dynamics, using special plant, animal and mineral (homeopathic) preparations, following rhythmic influences of the sun, moon, planets, stars (of which you are one). Again, you are a star.

AQUARIUS

An entirely different set of ideals (values, goals) are beginning to dawn upon you, and therefore in viewing your life, notice how it seems the rules have changed, what you valued before becomes less accessible, things taken for granted are no longer useful, and perhaps your faith in life or God is being tested. It’s time for new studies, definitely new adventures and travels to new cultures. The disillusion felt will not last forever. Life becomes more realistic. You, too. Careful with how you care for others. Be mindful.

PISCES

You think about life and death, happiness and mourning, forgiving and being forgiven. You know to live fully forgiveness is paramount. It’s the season of forgiveness. We heard that electric moment at Charlie’s memorial. It’s time to take morning and evening walks, making contact with the devas in nature, the most balancing of kingdoms. Gather seeds, pods, notice what is ripening yet still green, stop and view the architecture, notice what soothes and comforts. Read A Pattern Language by Christopher Alexander. Begin your own photographic journal. Life will find you soon.

Aptos Library Hosts Native American Art

The works of Native American artist Becky Olvera Schultz, a resident of Aptos, will be on display at the Aptos Library until December to recognize November as Native American Heritage Month.

Olvera Schulz can trace her ancestry to both the Kickapoo and Shawnee tribes. She pursued art since childhood, even as her mother, a nurse, pushed towards pre-med classes. Once in college, she dropped out and worked for the RegisterPajaronian in Watsonville selling advertising. About two decades later she took a Native American drum class and began a self discovery. She followed that with a clay class and began sculpting. From there her art blossomed.

“Soon after I took a clay class, I discovered I was good at sculpting faces. My focus was indigenous faces. My work was inspired by images in books, but most of my pieces were faces that just emerged from the clay from my own vision,” she said. “I started painting the faces and adding horse hair and other adornments.”

She said that some people were intimidated or scared by how realistic her masks were at first, so she started making her masks more whimsical and colorful in a Southwestern style. Over the years her art has been featured in nine museum exhibitions, galleries in several states as well as included in countless national and local exhibitions and Santa Cruz Open Studios 12 times.

“I believe my own indigenous bloodline, natural talent, research and travel experiences have all contributed to my specific style of art,” she said. n

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

ANNOUNCEMENTS

COUNTY FAIR BOARD MEETINGS

The Santa Cruz County Fair Board will meet most months at 1:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday in the Heritage Building at the fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Blvd., Watsonville.

Upcoming Meeting: Oct. 28; none in September. Dates in November and December have not yet been decided. For agendas, posted 10 days early, see santacruzcountyfair.com

ONGOING EVENTS

Mondays

BRIDGE CLUB

10:30 a.m.-Noon, 7695 Soquel Dr, Aptos, CA 95003

The Aptos Branch Library hosts Bridge Club sessions on Mondays (except holidays).

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

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

Tuesdays

BINGO AT MCSC

1-3 p.m., Mid County Senior Center, 829 Bay Avenue, Capitola (behind the Party Store)

Hot Dogs, Chili and snacks available for purchase

WEEKLY FARMERS’ MARKETS

TUESDAYS

courtesy of our Snack Shack. A lot of fun for all and a possible big win! Door opens at 12:15 p.m.

TUESDAY NIGHT SALSA SOCIAL

7 – 10 p.m., Abbott Square Market, 725 Front St., Santa Cruz

Join a midweek salsa social at Abbott Square Market with salsa, cumbia, merengue, and bachata. Free and open to all skill levels—just bring energy and dancing shoes.

More information: www.abbottsquaremarket.com

Thursdays

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING

7:15-9:15 p.m., Peace United Church 900 High St, Santa Cruz. Beginners welcome, partners not required. $10 each. First class free. Come dance!

HAPPY HOUR

5-7 p.m., California Coffee, 9105 Soquel Drive, Aptos California Coffee in Redwood Village hosts an open mic happy hour every week.

FELTON (thru Oct.) — 1:30 – 5:30 PM, 120 Russell Ave.

Since 1987, this beloved weekly timberland market features produce, meats, eggs, seafood, artisan bread and pastries, live music, EBT/SNAP + Market Match. Family-friendly with workshops, face painting, seasonal festivals like Strawberry Shortcake and Apple–a–Day.

EL MERCADO in Watsonville (thru Oct.) — 3 – 7 PM, 61 Crestview Dr.

The El Mercado farmers’ market promots access to fresh produce and wellness resources for Pajaro Valley families. It features fresh produce, ready-to-eat foods, local artisans and monthly family events. El Mercado also offers health screenings, vaccine clinics, and community resources in partnership with local nonprofits. Funding for El Mercado was made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service. Due to construction at Ramsay Park, El Mercado has moved to it’s current location (in the lot behind Watsonville Health Center).

WEDNESDAYS

DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ — 1 – 5 PM, Cedar St. & Church St.

A bustling market featuring certified organic produce, artisanal foods, seafood, baked goods, flowers, and prepared foods. EBT/SNAP accepted, and Market Match doubles purchases (up to $10). Free entry; metered and garage parking available — free after 6 PM. Live local music and street closures add vibrant atmosphere. Full vendor list and updates at santacruzfarmersmarket.org.

THURSDAYS

CAPITOLA MALL (thru Nov.) — 3:30 – 7 PM, 41st Avenue parking lot, Capitola Mall Seasonal market featuring fresh produce, artisan goods, flowers, and prepared foods. Free entry; mall parking available. Community atmosphere and easy shopping.

FRIDAYS

WATSONVILLE (Certified) — 3 – 7 PM, Peck St & Main St. Allyear market offering Watsonville-grown produce, seafood, dairy, flowers, hot foods, artisan goods. Free entry; metered parking available. EBT/SNAP + Market Match. Vendor news via local AARP events.

SATURDAYS

WESTSIDE SANTA CRUZ — 9 AM – 1 PM, Mission St Ext & Western Dr. Yearround market offering 100% certified-organic produce, seafood, meats, flowers, prepared meals, espresso bar, and artisan goods. Free parking on site. EBT/SNAP + Market Match. Often hosts pop-up breakfast events. Perfect for starting your weekend with fresh food and community energy. Full details at santacruzfarmersmarket.org.

APTOS (at Cabrillo College) — 8 AM – Noon, 6500 Soquel Drive Celebrated coastal market with over 90 vendors selling produce, sustainable seafood, artisan breads, honey, meats, flowers, and hot food. EBT/WIC accepted. Free/year-round weekend oasis for local flavors and crafts. Hosted by MontereyBayFarmers.

SCOTTS VALLEY (thru Nov.) — 9 AM – 1 PM, 5060 Scotts Valley Dr. Seasonal (May–Nov) market at Boys & Girls Club parking lot. Offers local produce, herbs, eggs, seafood, pastries, ready-to-eat food, flowers, live music & family activities. Free parking. EBT/SNAP and Market Match supported.

SUNDAYS

LIVE OAK/EASTSIDE — 9 AM – 1 PM, 15th & East Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz Vibrant seaside Sunday market featuring organic produce, fresh seafood, hot food stands (Mexican, crepes, brunch), pastries, coffee, flowers. Free parking, EBT/SNAP, Market Match, and monthly family-oriented events.

WATSONVILLE FAIRGROUNDS — 9 AM – 4 PM, 2601 E Lake Ave, Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Year-round market with wide selection of local produce, meats, seafood, crafts, and prepared foods. EBT/SNAP accepted. Parking onsite. Great for combining a market visit with other Fairgrounds activities.

Third Thursdays

SIP AND STROLL

6-9 p.m. (check-in 5 p.m.), Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos

Come to the Seacliff Inn: Tapestry Collection by Hilton, for a Sip & Stroll event where local artists to show and sell their works. Wines are 30% off, and the featured winery will offer tastings of three varietals for $10 per person. Details of this and more Sevy’s events at www.sevysbarand kitchen.com/events

Fridays (except First Friday of the Month)

LA SELVA BEACH LIBRARY BRIDGE GROUP

10:30-Noon, La Selva Beach Public Library, 316 Estrella Ave. Come for bridge from 10:30 to noon at the La Selva Beach library.   Call La Selva Library to reserve your seat: 831-427-7710.

First Saturdays

CAPITOLA BEACH CLEANUP

9-10 a.m., Esplanade Park

Help preserve and maintain the coastal beauty of Capitola. Join a beach cleanup every month at Esplanade Park.

Keep Capitola Salty is a grassroots movement dedicated to responsible efforts helping to maintain and preserve the environment, scenic beauty and coastal recreational activities of Capitola.

This movement is always looking for volunteers. Email KeepCapitolaSalty@gmail.com.

Second Saturdays

HISTORICAL AIRCRAFT DISPLAY

10 a.m.-4 p.m., Watsonville Municipal Airport, 100 Aviation Way Watsonville Municipal Airport hosts a Historical Aircraft Display every second Saturday. Admission is free.

Saturdays and Sundays

ELKHORN SLOUGH: FREE TOUR OF THE PRESERVE

10 a.m. | 11 a.m., Elkhorn Slough Reserve, 1700 Elkhorn Road, Watsonville

Docent-led tours offer visitors a guided introduction to Elkhorn Slough’s remarkable landscapes, wildlife, and tidal wetlands. Each walk is tailored to participants’ interests and abilities, creating an engaging, educational experience.

Space is limited, and tours are first-come, first-served. Guests can sign up at the Visitor Center front desk or call ahead the same morning at (831) 728-2822 for availability.

Second Sundays

SUNDAY MORNING BREAKFAST

8:30-11 a.m., Market Street Senior Center, 222 Market Street, Santa Cruz

The Market Street Senior Center warmly invites the community for a delightful Sunday morning breakfast every second Sunday, this month on June 8.

Indulge in a delicious array of scrambled eggs, sausage, hash browns, pancakes, coffee, tea or cocoa.

Donation: Adults, $12; children, $6

Inside seating is available, and To-Go orders are welcomed.

For information, visit www.marketstreetseniorcenter.org or call (831) 423-6640.

DATED EVENTS

Saturday October 4

SANTA CRUZ MAC N CHEESE COOK-OFF

11 a.m.–2 p.m., VFW Post 7263, 2259 7th Ave., Santa Cruz VETS A M hosts the first-ever Santa Cruz Mac N Cheese Cook-Off, featuring live music by Joe Blan, games, and plenty of cheesy creations to taste.

Gather your friends and family for an afternoon of fun, food, and community spirit while helping those who served.

Tickets are $20, with free admission for veterans and children under 12. Proceeds benefit veterans, supporting vital local programs.

For more information, visit VFW Post 7263 in Santa Cruz or call the post directly.

Sunday October 5

THE POWER FOODS DIET WITH DR. NEAL BARNARD 4:30–6:30 p.m., Colligan Theater, Santa Cruz Join Dr. Neal Barnard for an inspiring talk on the science of health, weight loss, and the healing power of food, based on his new book, The Power Foods Diet. Learn simple, evidence-based ways to improve your health.

More information and tickets at https://www. eventbrite.com/e/the-power-foods-diet-with-dr-neal-barnardtickets-1434793017539

Wednesday October 8

THE GROVE BALLROOM: “SCREAM” FRIGHT FLICK 7:30 p.m. – 11 p.m., Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk’s Grove Ballroom, 400 Beach St. Bring your 21+ friends for a night of fun and frights! Enjoy this clever horror-comedy blending scares, laughs, and pop-culture wit.

The first 50 attendees receive themed giveaways, and a full bar with signature drinks and snacks will be available.

Friday October 10

29TH ANNUAL FARM DINNER

5:30 – 8:30 p.m., Little Bee Barn, 560 Harkins Slough Rd, Watsonville

The organization Agri-Culture is sponsoring its 29th Annual Farm Dinner at Land Trust of Santa Cruz County’s “Little Bee Barn.” There will be limited seating. The theme of the event is “Celebrating 25+ Year Relationship with the Community Foundation - Building Legacies of Individuals & Families.”

Agri-Culture, Inc. has 16 endowment funds held at the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County, and this evening will highlight the purpose of those funds as well as their founders. At the end of the evening, each guest is given fresh produce and other farm products from local growers to take home with them.

This fun event is Agri-Culture, Inc.’s major fundraiser of the year. Proceeds are used to fund the many community and educational programs sponsored throughout the year. Individual tickets always sell out well before the event, so if you would like to attend, please make your reservations soon.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased at www. eventbrite.com (search for “29th Annual Farm Dinner” in Watsonville).

For additional information and/or reservations, please contact the Agri-Culture office at (831) 722-6622, email agri-culture@ sbcglobal.net or online at: www.agri-culture.us and see upcoming events.

Friday October 11

FIFTH ANNUAL SEACLIFF VILLAGE STREET

Doggie Parade at 11 a.m., followed by local vendors, food trucks, live music, crafts, and a Kids’ Corner. Free event. More info: https://seacliffimproveme nt.org/ or email info@ seacliffimprovement.org.

AGRICULTURAL HISTORY PROJECT: TRACTOR OR TREAT

11 a.m. – 3 p.m., 2601 East Lake Avenue, Hwy 152, Watsonville Kids and families can enjoy a festive fall day on the farm with trick-or-treating, crafts, tractor rides, a hay wagon tour, and more. Free admission.

FALL GOSPEL CONCERT: LIGHT EVERLASTING

7 p.m., Monte Vista Christian, 2 School Way, Watsonville

Enjoy an inspiring evening with performances by the award-winning choir, orchestra, and Middle School singers.

Admission is free and open to the public. Details: mvcs.org.

LAMP FT. RUSS LAWTON, SCOTT METZGER, RAY PACZKOWSKI

8 p.m., Felton Music Hall, 6275 Highway 9, Felton

Experience LaMP’s dynamic fusion of groove and improvisation in this 21+ standing-room concert. Doors open 7 p.m..

Tickets $29.50. More info: feltonmusichall.com.

TBIRDS ON THE WHARF

8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Santa Cruz Wharf, 21 Municipal Wharf

The Santa Clara Valley Thunderbirds host a vintage Thunderbird car show in the East Parking Lot on the Santa Cruz Wharf. Enjoy classic cars, waterfront views, local restaurants, and quaint shops.

More info or to enter: Santa Clara Valley Thunderbirds.

FLEA MARKET AT SANTA CRUZ MOOSE LODGE

9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Santa Cruz Moose Lodge, 2470 El Rancho Drive

Spaces available to rent.

Please email: scmoose545@yahoo.com for information.

DOT SLASH MAGIC BOOK SIGNING WITH LIZ SHIPTON LIVE

1–3 p.m., California Coffee, 9105 Soquel Dr., Aptos

Join local author and viral BookTok star Liz Shipton for a special hometown book signing of Dot Slash Magic, her satirical sci-fantasy exploring AI, art, mental health, and the magic that makes us human.

Liz, who attended Valencia Elementary, Aptos Middle and High Schools, and Cabrillo College, now lives off-grid, sailing the world and turning her real-life adventures into speculative fiction.

Enjoy live music during the event by Duncan Shipton. For more info, visit www.cacoffeeaptos.com or call (831) 684-2750.

Wednesday October 15

OPEN HOUSE: HIGHLANDS HOUSE & QUAIL HOLLOW RANCH

4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m., Santa Cruz County Parks

Santa Cruz County Parks invites you to tour Highlands House and Quail Hollow Ranch, two beautiful venues for weddings, parties, family gatherings, and fundraisers. Explore event possibilities and meet staff. Info: check the calendar or email reservations@scparks.com.

Highlands: 8500 CA-9, Ben Lomond Quail Hollow Ranch: 800 Quail Hollow Rd, Felton

Wednesday October 15 and Saturday October 18

FESTIVAL OF MONSTERS

Oct 15: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., Museum of Art & History (MAH), Santa Cruz

Oct 18: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., multiple Santa Cruz locations

As part of UCSC’s monster research conference, enjoy public events around Santa Cruz.

Hear David Livingstone Smith speak on dehumanization at MAH on Oct 15.

On Oct 18, attend a free horror writers panel at Bookshop Santa Cruz, meet graphic novelist Cole Lemke at Atlantis Fantasy World, and play a themed bluffing game at Game Santa Cruz ($20 for game only).

RSVP recommended.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

GOURMET GRAZING ON THE GREEN

Saturday October 11

Noon–4 p.m., Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Road, Aptos Spend the afternoon enjoying gourmet dishes, fine wines, craft beers and spirits from more than 40 local restaurants, wineries and breweries.

Live music, shaded seating and picnic-style relaxation make this popular festival a highlight of the fall season. Tickets range from $48.04 to $104.74 and include unlimited tastings. For details and tickets, visit sccbg.org.

Friday October 17

APTOS SPORTS FOUNDATION’S ANNUAL POKER TOURNAMENT

6 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Drive, Aptos

The Aptos Sports Foundation invites the community to its annual Poker Tournament, featuring dinner, live entertainment, and exciting poker play.

Sponsor a table to support youth sports and enjoy a fun-filled evening of camaraderie and giving back. For more information, visit aptossportsfoundation.com.

FOOD AS MEDICINE HEALTH CONFERENCE

8 a.m.–5:30 p.m., 1440 Multiversity, Scotts Valley

The second annual Food As Medicine conference unites healthcare professionals, researchers, and experts to explore the science and practice of plant-based nutrition. Highlights include panels, culinary demos, and plantbased meals. Details at foodasmedicinesantacruz.org.

Saturday October 18

HARVEST FESTIVAL

11 a.m. – 3 p.m., UCSC Farm, 152 Farm Rd., Santa Cruz

Join the UCSC Farm for the 2025 Harvest Festival, a day of family-friendly fun and seasonal celebration. Visitors can enjoy tractor rides, explore farm fields and gardens, and learn about sustainable agriculture. Local food, hands-on activities, and community festivities make this a perfect outing for all ages.

More information: https://casfs.ucsc.edu

26TH ANNUAL HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL

12 p.m. – 4 p.m., Louden Nelson Community Center, 301 Center Street, Santa Cruz

Celebrate Halloween with the family at this free, longrunning festival! Enjoy mask-making, carnival games, and All About Theatre performances.

Multiple showings of Nightmares – A Stage Spooktacular and Thriller dances throughout the afternoon. Enjoy this tradition that has lasted for over 25 years.

Saturday October 18

Sunday October 19

DÍA DE ESPERANZA ORGANIC FARMING FESTIVAL

Sat: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Sun: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., 275 Lee Road, Watsonville (adjacent to Esperanza Community Farms) Celebrate the wonders of organic and regenerative farming at the Día de Esperanza Festival. Enjoy interactive farm experiences, educational activities, and local food while connecting with the land and community.

Family-friendly activities and live demonstrations showcase the richness of sustainable agriculture. Artists and craft makers are invited to share their creations, making this a colorful, engaging weekend for all.

More information and tickets: https://www.landtrustsantacruz.org

Thursday October 23

APTOS CHAMBER OCTOBER LUNCHEON: SENATOR LAIRD

11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Dr. Senator John Laird will discuss current issues at this community luncheon.

Tickets: $35. Include lunch. More info: seascapegc.com.

Saturday October 25

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY SHERIFF’S ANNUAL TRUNK OR TREAT

5 p.m. – 8 p.m., Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office, 5200 Soquel Ave. Join the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office for their annual Trunk or Treat!

Decorated trunks, candy, games, and food vendors. Three hours of family-friendly Halloween fun. Free parking and shuttle from Capitola Mall.

ROCK & ROLL PLAYHOUSE HALLOWEEN PARTY

12 p.m., Felton Music Hall, 6275 Highway 9

A family-friendly Halloween party for kids under 10. Dress up, enjoy games, and rock out to The Beatles and more.

Tickets $17. More info: feltonmusichall.com.

SANTA CRUZ CHILI COOK-OFF

10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach St.

Bring your appetite and join the fun as professional and amateur chefs compete for the title of Best Chili! Boardwalk admission is free — just purchase a Tasting Kit for $15. Each kit includes eight taste tickets, a spoon, a cup, and a People’s Choice ballot. Purchase kits onsite at any ticket booth.

Chef prep 9:00–10 a.m., cooking 10 a.m.–1 p.m., public tasting 1 p.m., winners announced 4 p.m. at the Pirate Ship Stage.

Saturday October 25

Sunday October 26

SPOOKY HALLOWEEN SHOW

2–3:30 p.m., Market Street Senior Center, 222 Market St., Santa Cruz

Step into a frightfully fun afternoon of chills, thrills, and festive entertainment at the Market Street Senior Center’s Spooky Halloween Show.

Guests will enjoy ghostly songs, spirited dancing, and fabulous costumes in a delightfully decorated setting. Light refreshments will be served, and everyone is welcome — whether you come in costume or simply to soak up the fun. Admission is a $20 donation, supporting the center’s programs for seniors.

For more information, call (831) 423-6640.

Sunday October 26

CAPITOLA VILLAGE HALLOWEEN PARADE

2 p.m. – 3 p.m., Line up at 1:30 p.m. in the lower Beach & Village Parking Lot 2 behind Capitola Police Department, 422 Capitola Ave. Calling all ghosts, goblins, boys, and ghouls! Join the annual parade, led by a Central Fire Engine with music from the Soquel High Senior Band. Parade winds through Capitola Village to Esplanade Park, where trick-or-treat bags await. Kids can visit participating shops after the parade. Hosted by the Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce.

Monday October 27

READING POEMS TOGETHER: THE SPOKEN EXPERIENCE 12–1 p.m., Capitola Branch Library, Front Room, 2005 Wharf Rd. Join fellow poetry lovers for a lunchtime discussion of Tony Hoagland’s work, exploring the power of poetry in community. Free and open to the public.

Thursday October 31

GHOST-NOTE HALLOWEEN BASH

Doors 8 p.m., Show 9 p.m., Moe’s Alley, 1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz

Celebrate Halloween with Ghost-Note, featuring members of Snarky Puppy and collaborators of Prince, Snoop Dogg, Erykah Badu, and more.

Expect an electrifying night of funk, jazz, and groove. Tickets and info available at https://moesalley.com.

HALLOWEEN MONSTER MASH

3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Aptos Village Green, 151 Aptos Village Way

Bring the family to show off costumes and enjoy trick-ortreating with local businesses at this festive community event. Hosted by the Aptos Chamber of Commerce. Details: aptoschamber. com.

Sunday November 9

MEDITATION: NUTS & BOLTS ~ WHY AND HOW TO DO IT

1–3 p.m., Location TBA

Nearly every wellness source recommends that you meditate, but few explain exactly how to do that! Join Jeff to start fresh or build on your practice. You will explore why meditation helps, and how to employ this practical mindfulness strategy to relax, and help manifest goals & desires.

Jeff Hotchkiss is the author of ‘Putting Wisdom to Work, Practical Mindfulness for Maximal Living’ 2nd Ed. Contact him at wisdom2work@gmail.com or text 831-854-7306. Cost: $42. Register at 831-479-6331 or extension.cabrillo.edu. n

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Behind Every Drop

Celebrating the People of Soquel Creek Water District During Water Professionals Week

By Rebecca Gold Rubin

When you turn on the tap in your kitchen, fill a glass of water, or watch your kids run through the sprinklers, it might feel like magic — clean, safe water always there when you need it. But behind every drop are dedicated people, working every day, in all kinds of conditions, to make sure our community has the water it depends on.

This October 4–12, Soquel Creek Water District is joining communities across California in celebrating Water Professionals Appreciation Week. It’s a time to recognize the women and men whose dedication, skills, and teamwork keep the water flowing, protect public health, and safeguard our environment.

“Water is something most of us don’t think twice about — until it’s not there,” said Melanie Mow Schumacher, General Manager. “But for our staff, it’s all they think about. Every pipe repair, every water quality test, every community program, every customer call is rooted in our commitment to serve our neighbors and protect our precious groundwater.”

A Day in the Life

Take an early morning drive down Soquel Drive, and you might spot a District field crew truck pulled up on the shoulder. By the time most of us are brewing our first cup of coffee, District crews are already out in the

neighborhoods, responding to calls, checking valves, or repairing leaks.

Field crews are often the most visible part of the District. They’re the ones who climb into trenches to repair aging pipes, install meters for residential and business water service, or work through the night at times to restore service after a water main break. “We know people are counting on us,” said Justin P., who has worked with the District for more than a decade. “That’s why we do our best to get in, get the job done right, and get water back to folks as quickly as possible.”

But the work doesn’t stop there. In the background, water quality specialists are taking water samples, making sure every glass of water meets the strictest state and federal health standards. Engineers are planning the infrastructure of tomorrow, designing pipelines and treatment facilities to carry the community into a more sustainable future. Customer service representatives answer hundreds of calls and emails each week, helping residents understand their bills, track down leaks, or pay their bills.

Protecting a Precious Resource

The District faces a unique challenge: we rely entirely on local groundwater for our drinking water supply. Over the years, those underground aquifers have been at risk from seawater intrusion due to overdraft — saltwater from the ocean seeping inland and threatening to contaminate wells..

Addressing this challenge has required

JOSE GONZALEZ LANDSCAPING

innovation, and the District’s staff has been at the center of it. One of the most groundbreaking projects is Pure Water Soquel, which takes recycled water, purifies it to meet and exceed drinking water standards, and uses it to replenish the groundwater basin. The project represents years of planning, permitting, and construction, with staff shepherding every step.

“It’s one of the most rewarding projects of my career,” said Cameron Kostigen Mumper, Water Resources Associate Manager, who works on Pure Water Soquel. “Knowing that we’re securing a safe water supply for future generations — that’s what being a water professional is all about.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

Water Professionals Appreciation Week isn’t just about recognizing today’s workforce — it’s also about inspiring tomorrows. The State of California established the week in 2016 to highlight the critical role of water professionals and encourage young people to consider careers in the water sector.

At the District, that mission is taken to heart. Through school programs, career days, internships, and mentorships, staff share their passion for water with students. “This is

a field where you can make a real difference,” said Taj Dufour, Engineering Manager, who yearly takes on mentoring students from the Diamond Technology Institute in Watsonville, “You’re protecting health, supporting your community, and helping the environment — all at the same time.”

A Community of Thanks

As we celebrate Water Professionals Week, the message is simple: gratitude. Whether you receive your water from Soquel Creek Water District or other water professionals in our region- let’s have gratitude for the people who climb into trenches on stormy nights, who test and retest water samples, who patiently answer billing questions, who envision new projects to protect our supply, who work with our community, and who work quietly behind the scenes so that when you turn the tap, the water is always there.

So the next time you take a sip of cool water, think of the water professionals who made it possible. This week — and every week — they deserve our thanks. n

For more information about Soquel Creek Water District and its dedicated team, visit www. soquelcreekwater.org.

SCCAS Featured Pet

Sibling Sweetness

Meet sisters Sally (A324042-right) and Suzie (A324041)!

Suzie and Sally are 8-month-olds who came to us from their previous family. They are a bit shy and were not handled much in their previous home. They would do well in a home that can provide them with thoughtful enrichment and species-appropriate activities to build their confidence. In their previous home they lived with children, and their favorite food is lettuce.

Guinea pigs are very social creatures and do not do well left alone. Sally and Suzie are bonded and required to go to an adoptive home together. To help with that, their adoption fee is 2 for 1!

The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is full of adoptable animals. Fostering animals is an awesome way to improve a Shelter animal’s life and fill your home with love and fun! If you are interested in fostering any kind of animal please email jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us. You can also Follow SCCAS on Instagram and/or Facebook to stay up-to-date on shelter news and where to find adoptable pets around town at breweries, stores and events. All adoptions are first come, first served.

Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s full-service, open-admission shelter 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 • Hours: Daily 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Arrive before 4 p.m. for “meet and greet”)

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

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

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