Scotts Valley Times: August 2026

Bethany Drive Developer Skips Community Meeting

City Tells Public There’s Virtually

By JON CHOWN

The Scotts Valley community learned a little bit and complained a lot during an informal meeting on a proposed housing project at 125 Bethany Drive on July 1. City leaders and residents are hoping the developer behind the project watches the video on YouTube because he failed to show.

The meeting, held in the Scotts Valley City Council Chambers, was run by Scotts Valley City Manager Mali LaGoe and she was accompanied by several members of her staff, including City Attorney Kirsten Powell and City Planner Brian Froelich. ... continues on page 4

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the work of local playwrights during its annual New Works Weekend, featuring eight original 10-minute plays written by community authors and performed Aug. 14-16 at Park Hall in Ben Lomond.

The commercial buildings at 125 Bethany Drive will be demolished and replaced with 80-foot tall apartment buildings.

Bethany Drive Developer Skips Community Meeting: City Tells Public There’s Virtually No Way To Stop Dense Housing Project, By Jon Chown

Community News

5 Mountain Community Theater to Showcase Local Playwrights During New Works Weekend • Teen Lifeguard Invited to White House: Video of Dramatic, Heroic Rescue Goes Viral

6 Supporting Local Parks for 50 Years

7 Damians Ladder Releases Annual Report: Numbers Show Seniors, Disabled Residents Satisfied and Saving Thousands • Supervisors Approve Boulder Creek Sewer Rate Increase

8 EMBER to Present BESS Research: Science Symposium Takes Place Saturday Aug. 7 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., By Claudia Iseman • County Shelves BESS Ordinance; Asks State to Consider Draft and Public Response, By Jon Chown

9 Capitola Woman Killed in Senseless Attack: Murder Suspect Allegedly Admitted to Homicidal Fantasy, By Jon Chown

10 54th Annual Wharf to Wharf Hits Its Stride: Competition and Fun Propel Event’s Success, By Tad Stearn

15 Firefighter Moonlights as Marine Biologist: Wonders of the Ocean Have Always Drawn Fascination, By Jon Chown

16 Sandman Triathlon Returns in August: Event Benefits Santa Cruz State Lifeguard Program, By Jon Chown

19 Grand Jury Urges Santa Cruz County to Take Stronger Steps to Protect Pedestrians, By Jon Chown

22 Santa Cruz County Grand Jury Finds Local Election System Secure, Recommends More Public Education, By Jon Chown Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Newsletter • Pages 11-14

11 Come Volunteer at the Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival • Scotts Valley Commissions 60th Birthday Glasses • Calendar of Upcoming Community Events

12 SLV Tech Services Joins the Chamber with Tech: Donates Marketing Expertise to Scotts Valley Art, Wine and Beer Festival • Wellness Day at the Art, Wine & Beer Festival: An Idea Years in the Making

13 Visit Santa Cruz County Celebrates New Visitor Center

14 It’s Time For ‘Dog Day Sunday’: August 16 • Cops N’ Rodders Car Show Come Join the Fun: Saturday August 15

Monthly Horoscope • Page 18 – South & North Nodes | Direction & Destiny — Past & Present/Future, By Risa D’Angeles Community Calendar | Arts & Entertainment • Pages 20, 21

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COVER STORY

There is a concern that the apartment building will tower over Vine Hill Elementary School, which is right across the street, giving any residents an overlook of the school’s playground and facilities.

“Housing Project” from page 1

In May, The Prime Company applied for a 96-unit, 100% affordable multifamily housing development at the 1.31-acre site. The proposal consists of 95 affordable apartments and one manager’s unit in two multi-story residential buildings up to 80 feet in height, all on commercially zoned property. Just 110 parking spaces would be added. As a reference, the highest density allowed in the planned Town Center District is 50 units per acre with a maximum building height of 50 feet. Unfortunately, there appears to be nothing the city can do to stop it.

“This project will not come before the City Council for consideration due to state laws,” LaGoe explained to the audience. “We did invite the developer to this meeting and they declined to attend.”

Previous proposals at 125 Bethany Drive have not been favored by the public. In 2023, Heritage Real Estate Ventures LLC proposed demolishing two existing commercial buildings totaling approximately 12,200 square feet and replacing them with a three-story, 52,822-square-foot mixed-use commercial building. The proposal included 10,465 square feet of professional and administrative office space and 42,357 square feet of storage accommodating up to 227 user spaces, along with 54 parking spaces. The project required a General Plan amendment, rezoning and other discretionary approvals from the City of Scotts Valley.

As part of that application, the city prepared an Initial Study and proposed Negative Declaration under the California Environmental Quality Act, concluding the project would not result in significant environmental impacts. The environmental review was circulated for public comment in July of 2023.

The public had a lot to say, mostly negative. The City Council did not approve the project and now the property has instead returned with a far different application. This time, rather than seeking permits and approvals, the applicant has applied through the state and has asked for ministerial approval under Assembly Bill 2011, Senate Bill 330 and California’s Density Bonus Law.

If the project meets the requirements of those state laws, it would be approved administratively by the city and would not require Planning Commission or City Council approval. The city also notes that qualifying AB 2011 projects are exempt from CEQA review.

LaGoe and Powell explained this to a dissatisfied crowd after Froelich gave a detailed review of the project.

After, Michael Heffner, a disabled veteran, took the podium and said he lived close to the project. “What we need to do is pick this apart,” he said. “Balconies are facing the road within 500 feet. There’s a very clear law that does not allow balconies to be facing a freeway within 500 feet. … So we need to

come up with every possible reason that is wrong and pick it apart.”

Mike Zeller, a resident of Bethany Drive, said residents needed to contact their state representatives. “In particular Gail Pellerin and Senator John Laird, let them know how this law is impacting the community and the effects it is having.”

Chris Lopez, another Bethany Drive resident, said the project would have a terrible impact on the community and the city should look at how it might fit it in court, possibly by teaming up with other cities. “They can’t possibly sue everybody into the ground if people unite and fight this together,” she said.

Powell said that she, as city attorney, did have conversations with others in her position, but that not all cities were aligned on the issue. AB 2011, she pointed out, was introduced by Buffy Wicks, who represents Oakland.

Roger Snyder, president of the Scotts Valley Unified School Board, said he was concerned about the project’s proximity to Vine Hill Elementary School. “I cannot believe we are going to have balconies overlooking our kindergarten students. I cannot imagine 200 residents and over 100 cars at that intersection at 7:30 and 8 a.m. on a school day. This has to have some sanity. So I want to hear from the developer how they’re going to address these concerns,” he said.

Attempts to reach the developer Chris Elsey of The Prime Company were not successful. n

Mountain Community Theater to Showcase

Local Playwrights During New Works Weekend

BEN LOMOND — Mountain Community Theater will showcase the work of local playwrights during its annual New Works Weekend, featuring eight original 10-minute plays written by community authors and performed Aug. 14-16 at Park Hall in Ben Lomond.

The event, produced and directed by Hannah Eckstein, celebrates local storytelling by bringing new scripts from the page to the stage. Organizers said the weekend is designed to highlight emerging and experienced writers while giving audiences an opportunity to experience new theatrical works.

Performances will be held Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. at Park Hall, 9400 Mill St. Tickets are $10. Each performance will be followed by a talkback with the writers, directors and actors.

Tickets will be available to Mountain Community Theater subscribers beginning July 17, 2026, and will go on sale to the public July 24, 2026.

The eight plays featured during the weekend include a variety of genres, from comedy and farce to family drama and supernatural stories.

Robin Lasser’s “Beyond the Beyond and Beyond” follows a guest psychic on a radio show who makes contact with the beyond.

Patrick True’s “On the Haunt” tells the story of a shy music teacher who accidentally conjures the ghost of Mae West.

“Starry Starry Night,” written by Eckstein, is a comic farce about two sisters sharing stories around a campfire in the African bush. Tiffany Cesarin’s “Hearts That Matter” explores family drama through dark comedy.

“New Works Weekend” page 6

Teen Lifeguard Invited to White House

Video of Dramatic, Heroic Rescue Goes Viral

SANTA CRUZ — Ryder Williams, the teenage lifeguard who heroically rescued a 10-year boy from massive waves at Seabright Beach on July 25 has been invited to the White House to receive an award.

President Donald Trump made the invitation public on social media Tuesday. Williams and his family have all been invited to Washington D.C.

“We›re going to bring this heroic young man, and his family, into the White House with, perhaps, the boy he saved, to give him a High Civilian Honor. Very brave, he deserves it!” Trump posted to social media.

The rescue was captured on video by local resident Scott Vander Dussen and quickly went viral after being posted to Instagram and Facebook. The video shows the rescue already underway as Williams clings to the boy as a huge wave envelopes

the two and they disappear under it. Seconds later they reappear as others on the beach try to pull them in, but are forced to retreat when another wave equally as large crushes the two again.

Despite the danger, Williams holds on to the boy as wave after wave crashes against the two. Others trying to help are nearly swept away themselves. Eventually a second lifeguard joins the effort, and with the help of others, the child and lifeguard were brought safely back to the beach.

Vander Dussen, who recorded the video and shared it through his social media account, said on social that the ocean conditions changed quickly and caught people off guard. He said the lifeguard’s actions saved the child’s life.

“Teen Hero” page 6

Hannah Eckstein

Supporting Local Parks for 50 Years

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SANTA CRUZ — Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks is marking its 50th anniversary this year with a public celebration and a fundraising campaign as the nonprofit looks back on five decades of supporting state parks and beaches in Santa Cruz and San Mateo counties.

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The nonprofit is based in downtown Santa Cruz and employs about 100 people

“Teen Hero” from page 5

The child’s name and family information have not been publicly released.

Local resident Brittany Conley said she saw the entire incident. She said the whole scene unfolded between two lifeguard towers, both waving red flags reading “danger.”

“Between those towers were two rip currents and about 20 to 30 people hanging at the waters edge, playing in the water. No one was swimming in the water as it was clearly too dangerous. I saw three kids get pulled in by the waves throughout the day that were helped by guards and parents. It seemed very ignorant to have kids anywhere near the water this day,” she said.

She said the young boy that was saved on the video had been pulled in by a rip current, but the waves weren’t huge. He began to panic, trying to swim in, but was getting sucked further out by the rip current. He then waved for help.

“New Works Weekend” from page 5

In Paola Bruni’s “Sense of Direction,” Officer Lenny Green, known as the “Dancing Cop of Brooklyn,” faces an unexpected challenge when his wife, Alice, escapes from Cypress Village Memory Care and finds him directing traffic.

Juanita Usher’s “Eavesdropping” follows a chance encounter in a department store dressing room that reveals hidden truths. Linda Gunther’s “Back to the Suture” is a comedy set in a doctor’s office where a college student impersonates her late father, Dr. Suture, who has the ability to travel through time.

The final play, “Once Upon a Time Change,” was written by Mountain

during the peak visitor season, including visitor service aides stationed at parks and beaches throughout the region.

The organization will celebrate its anniversary with a free public Birthday Bash from noon to 3 p.m. Sept. 19 at Wilder Ranch State Park. The event will feature music, dancing, food, drinks and a silent auction.

Former staff members, board members and California State Parks employees are encouraged to attend as part of a reunion. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

Friends said those projects reflect its continuing commitment to protecting and improving local parks and beaches as it begins its next 50 years of service. n

“This is when people began screaming for the lifeguard,” she said. “As the guard was coming, the kid was tossed in a couple huge waves. By the time the guard came, the boy was completely limp. The guard was struggling to get in, so people began to attempt to help. It was doing more harm than good, and they were instructed to get out,” she said.

Conley said it was clear that most of the visitors were from out of town. Most local beaches would have had a dozen experienced swimmers and surfers eager to help. The waters were rough, but if visitors had the knowledge of what to do in a rip current, or even basic sense to dive under the waves, it would have helped tremendously.

“I love that the focus was on the lifeguard and his heroic actions that day. Our summer program, Junior Guards, has taught thousands of kids how to navigate the ocean and how to help others when needed,” she said. “The lifeguard is an absolute hero.” n

Community Theater founder Rita Wadsworth and Carolyn Hyatt. The comedy takes audiences into a throne room with Old King Cole and his court jester.

Featured readers include MCT veteran actors Naomi Bowers, Tiffany Cesarin, Shireen Doyle, Hannah Eckstein, Corrine Fitz, Dusty Harker, Scott Hawklyn, Robin Lasser, David Leach, MaryAnn LoBalbo and Patrick True.

Mountain Community Theater said the event is intended to give local writers a platform while encouraging audiences to engage with new works and the people who create them. n

For more information, visit https:// mctshows.org.

Damians Ladder Releases Annual Report

Numbers Show Seniors, Disabled Residents Satisfied and Saving Thousands

Damians Ladder, the local non-profit organization that assists seniors and the disabled with small home repairs, has already received nearly 900 requests for help since its recent inception and has completed nearly all of them, saving these residents nearly $250,000.

Damians Ladder, based in Scotts Valley, just released its first Annual Report, documenting the social dividend delivered by donors and sup porters throughout Santa Cruz County for the period ending June 30. The organization provides minor home repairs and property maintenance at low or no cost to low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities. This year’s Annual Report consolidates activities from the organization’s inception in December 2023 through June 30. During this 19-month period, 528 Santa Cruz County seniors and disabled residents requested assistance. A total of 887 service requests were received, with 834 completed, representing a 94% closure rate.

Damians Ladder’s 22 field volunteers contributed 1,960 hours of service, representing an estimated $245,000 in value delivered to the community. Internal customer satisfaction surveys show a 96% overall satisfaction rating from clients served.

The Annual Report is now available at www.damiansladder.org. With an average of 45+ new service requests each month and current open requests in progress, Damians Ladder projects reaching 1,000 closed service requests in late summer 2026, serving a total of 600 seniors and disabled residents by that milestone. These results have been made possible through generous private donations and grants from the local business community. They are especially grateful to Community Foundation Santa Cruz County that has provided over $40,000.00 in grants in 2026. Referrals for service may be submitted at www.damiansladder.org or by calling 831200-1376. n

Supervisors Approve Boulder Creek Sewer Rate Increase

SANTA CRUZ — The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors has approved a 3% increase in sewer service charges for properties served by County Service Area 7 Zone 2 in Boulder Creek following a required public hearing.

The board voted Tuesday to confirm the increase, allowing the charges to be placed on property tax bills for the coming year.

According to a staff report, the hearing was required by state law before the annual assessments could be submitted to the Auditor-Controller-Treasurer-Tax Collector for inclusion on the 2026-27 property tax roll. The increase is expected to generate about $70,083 in revenue for the sanitation district, approximately $3,931 more than the previous fiscal year.

Under the approved rates, a singlefamily home will pay $3,932.85 per year, up 3% from last year. Fire stations will pay $7,865.70 annually, while accessory dwelling units will be charged $1,966.43 per year. Vacant parcels will be assessed $983.21 annually.

County staff said the report must be

approved and submitted by Aug. 10 to ensure the charges appear on property tax bills for the upcoming fiscal year.

County staff said the annual charges help fund sewer service within CSA 7 Zone 2, which serves the Boulder Creek area. The board had previously approved the proposed rates on May 19 and scheduled the June 30 public hearing to allow property owners to comment or file protests before the assessments became final.

The assessment report, which lists each affected parcel and its corresponding charge, was filed with the Clerk of the Board before the hearing and made available for public review online. No property owners came forward to protest at the meeting, nor did any call in. The increase was then approved unanimously.

The agenda item, prepared by the Community Development and Infrastructure Department’s Public Works Division, stated that the rate increase supports the continued operation of the Boulder Creek sewer system. The additional revenue will help cover operating costs for the sanitation service area. n

EMBER to Present BESS Research

Science Symposium Takes Place Saturday Aug. 7 from

By CLAUDIA ISEMAN

Like a glowing ember reignited from a fire, EMBER (Estuary Monitoring of Battery Emissions and Residues) is releasing a firestorm of research following the Moss Landing lithium battery fire in January 2025.

On Aug. 7 EMBER will hold a science symposium presenting its research on the impact of the blaze at the Vistra battery energy storage system. Also known as BESS.

“Folks are welcome to just tune in to the topics that interest them, or they can watch the recording later, which allows them to skip over the boring parts,” said Kirsten Wasson. Wasson is a core member of the research team known as EMBER studying metal concentrations in plants and animals.

She’s also preparing and coordinating the presentation for the symposium.

EMBER is a coalition of scientists from the Moss Landing Marine Laboratories (MLML) and The Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI), UCSC and Elkhorn Slough, who are all collecting data from the Elkhorn Slough post lithium battery fire.

John Hunt has been an Aquatic Toxicologist researching the Monterey Bay for 20 years.

“EMBER is a good example of science in action by people who care,” says Hunt.

The symposium features a variety of presentations by various experts and runs all day from 9a to 4p. at https://elkhornslough. org/visit/calendar/ember-symposium/

”The public should tune in to this symposium if they want a good presentation about science and what materials got into the environment after the fire,” says Hunt.

He says research will not be looking at impacts on human health.

The research scientists have a specific agenda when it comes to protecting one of the Central Coast’s most environmentally sensitive areas.

• Measure and map distribution of metals before and after the battery fire in Elkhorn Slough sediments.

• Track movement from the surrounding watershed into the Slough via stormwater runoff.

• Characterize movement and chemical transformations of battery fire metals

9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

between sediments, porewater, and the water column in Elkhorn Slough.

• Create a box model of metals in various reservoirs of Elkhorn Slough.

• Evaluate the potential for uptake and accumulation of metals into common plants, invertebrates, and fish in Elkhorn Slough, including edible species.

Wasson admits the scientific jargon is not for everyone. “It will be nerdy. This is a look into the sausage making of science,” says Wasson. “We’ll make sure the start and ending of our talks are general,” she adds. The biota expert hopes to break down the symposium and simplify it for a broader audience in the future. n

The Moss Landing Battery Fire Science: https://elkhornslough.org/visit/calendar/ ember-symposium/

County Shelves BESS Ordinance; Asks State to Consider Draft and Public Response

By JON CHOWN

SANTA CRUZ — The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors, at their June 30 meeting, voted to stop work on a proposed ordinance to regulate large battery energy storage projects and instead ask the California Energy Commission to use the county’s draft safety and land-use standards when reviewing the proposed Seahawk Battery Energy Storage System near Watsonville.

The board’s decision follows more than a year of indecision regarding the regulation of utility-scale battery storage facilities. Supervisors had been reviewing on an ordinance that has been under development for nearly two years, but decided to drop the matter for now after developer New Leaf Energy withdrew its county application for the Seahawk project and sought approval through a state process.

Besides sending a letter to the CEC, the Board also directed county staff to negotiate a community benefits agreement with New Leaf Energy and continue participating in the California Energy Commission’s environmental review of the project.

County staff recommended the change after concluding there was little reason to spend time and money completing the ordinance now that there are no battery storage applications pending before the county.

“The benefits of finalizing the Draft Ordinance appear to be limited,” staff wrote in a report to the board. The report said preparing the required Environmental Impact Report would be expensive, was not included in the county’s budget and could expose the county to legal challenges. Staff also noted

that the California Energy Commission is not legally required to follow local ordinances when reviewing projects under Assembly Bill 205, the state law New Leaf is using to seek approval.

The board directed Chair Monica Martinez to draft a letter asking the Energy Commission to consider the county’s draft ordinance as it reviews the Seahawk proposal.

The letter states that Santa Cruz County supports battery storage as part of California’s efforts to improve grid reliability and expand renewable energy, but believes projects must be developed under strong public safety and environmental protections.

The letter asks the commission to evaluate the Seahawk project using standards that are at least as protective as those proposed by the county, particularly in areas involving fire safety, environmental monitoring, local oversight and agricultural protection.

Proposed Ordinance Has A Long History

Battery energy storage systems store electricity produced during periods of high renewable energy production, such as sunny or windy days, and release that energy later when demand increases. Supporters say the facilities are an important part of California’s transition away from fossil fuels because they help stabilize the electrical grid, reduce the need for natural gas power plants and lower the risk of blackouts during periods of heavy electricity use.

The county began working on its ordinance in 2024 after supervisors directed staff to develop rules governing where large battery storage facilities could be built and how they would operate. The proposed

ordinance would have created a new Energy Storage System Combining District covering qualifying properties adjacent to existing electrical transmission substations outside the coastal zone. Only parcels of at least 10 acres would have been eligible, and projects would have required approval from the Board of Supervisors through a conditional use permit after public hearings and recommendations from the Planning Commission. Projects affecting farmland also would have required review by the Agricultural Policy Advisory Commission.

The draft ordinance also included extensive safety, environmental and operational requirements. Among them were minimum setbacks of 300 feet from sensitive receptors and 1,000 feet from schools, hospitals, daycare centers and residential care facilities for older adults. Battery modules also would have been required to remain at least 100 feet from public roads and neighboring property lines.

The ordinance also proposed requiring independent studies of thermal runaway risk, smoke drift and toxic plume modeling, fire risk assessments and failure analysis before any project could be approved. Operators would have been required to coordinate emergency response plans with local fire agencies, provide annual emergency response training, install air quality monitors and weather stations around project sites, maintain dedicated fire water supplies unless waived by fire officials and provide financial guarantees to cover cleanup, environmental damage and decommissioning costs.

The proposal also included agricultural protections. Projects built on commercial

agricultural land would have been required to study whether the land was economically viable for farming and, in many cases, permanently protect other farmland through agricultural conservation easements to offset the loss of productive soils.

County officials spent months revising the ordinance after receiving comments from residents, emergency responders, agricultural interests and the battery storage industry. New Leaf Energy initially praised the county’s effort.

During earlier discussions, company representatives described the proposal as one of the strongest battery storage ordinances in the country and said they intended to wait for the county process before seeking approval. That changed after the Board of Supervisors approved additional amendments to the ordinance in January.

In a May letter notifying the county that New Leaf would withdraw its application, Senior Developer Max Christian wrote that the changes created “significant commercial risks, as well as critical delays” that made the county approval process no longer practical.

Christian specifically objected to a new requirement that future ownership transfers receive approval from the Board of Supervisors, calling it unprecedented. He noted that New Leaf’s business model is to develop projects and eventually sell them rather than operate them long term.

Christian also pointed to repeated delays in completing the ordinance, saying they increased uncertainty for the project.

“BESS Ordinance” page 17

Capitola Woman Killed in Senseless Attack Murder Suspect Allegedly Admitted to Homicidal Fantasy

By JON CHOWN

SANTA CRUZ — A 19-year-old Santa Cruz man accused of fatally stabbing a Capitola woman outside Capitola Mall planned the attack in advance, purchased two switchblade knives and then randomly selected his victim, according to a criminal complaint filed by the Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s Office.

Capitola police said officers were dispatched at about 12:47 p.m. on July 20 to reports of a stabbing near the food court exit at Capitola Mall.

Officers arrived within minutes and found a woman on Clares Street near the west exit of Macy’s suffering from multiple stab wounds. Police and later firefighters and paramedics performed life-saving measures, but the victim,

73-year-old Rachell Summers died at the scene.

Tyler Leibelt, 19, was arrested a short time later on the 1400 block of 41st Avenue. According to the complaint, Leibelt contacted 911 after the stabbing, identified himself as the suspect and remained in the area until officers took him into custody.

Leibelt has been charged with one count of murder. According to the criminal complaint, Leibelt told investigators he left a sober living environment, took an Uber to Cabrillo College, where he was studying accounting, and later decided to kill someone.

He purchased two knives and then went to Capitola Mall, where he waited for an opportunity to carry out the attack. Leibelt admitted experiencing homicidal fantasies before the attack and told detectives he had decided to kill someone that day. The filing also alleges investigators recovered a letter expressing an intent to kill multiple people before taking his own life.

“Woman Killed” page 17

ShowerGuard ™ Glass Stays Beautiful For Life

Capitola Police officers take suspect Tyler Leibelt into custody on July 20.

A photo of Rachell Summers from a GoFundMe page raising a memorial fund for her grandson.

54th Annual Wharf to Wharf Hits Its Stride Competition and Fun Propel Event’s Success

By TAD STEARN

It’s a six-mile rolling carnival of a road race. A motivating musical experience with 30+ bands. A community event with 16,000 friends old and new. Call it what you want, the 54th running of the Wharf to Wharf Race on the morning of Sunday, July 26, was once again more fun than a pair of running shoes should be allowed to have.

For the second year in a row “The Best Little Road Race in California” started at 30th Street and Portola Drive on the east side instead of the traditional start at the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf and the Boardwalk due to ongoing construction and closure of the Murray Street Bridge. The course traveled north toward the harbor before turning back south and connecting with the traditional route for the final four miles.

Fun and festivities aside, the W2W is a competitive racing event with an international draw and prize money at stake for the top finishers. Twenty-sixyear-old Latvian runner Arturs Medveds repeated his 2025 victory as the men’s

winner with a time of 27:22, chased by Anthony Raftis and Nicolas Brichta finishing second and third, respectively.

Flagstaff AZ resident Paige Wood, 30, sealed her victory in the women’s bracket

with a time of 30:34, followed by Lauren Hagans and Rebecca Rader.

Top finishing local men included Sean Riedel of Santa Cruz running a 30:12 and Matthew Quinn of Aptos, finishing at 30:26.

Recent Aptos High graduate Maya Schiro of Corralitos was the top local women’s finisher, running a very impressive 35:12 in her third W2W.

While race organizers hope to return to the traditional starting line next year, the start on Portola Drive provided some unique opportunities for local businesses between 30th and 41st avenues. Restaurants, bars and coffee shops were open early providing raceday specials for the thousands of runners stretching, hydrating and loading into their numbered corrals waiting for the starting gun.

Pete Cirina, owner of the Over the Hill Gang Saloon for the past 35 years, had “breakfast shots” lined up for those who wanted to start the party early. Really early. “It’s a great business day for us, it really is” he says. “I was debating whether to open or not, but with my liquor license I can open at 6 a.m. So we went ahead and opened up early today. This is awesome for us.”

“Wharf to Wharf” page 18

A Ukulele Team performs on the Wharf to Wharf course to entertain the participants.

Come Volunteer at the Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival

Scotts

VAolunteering at the Art, Wine & Beer is a meaningful way to get involved in your community, with benefits that go far beyond free stuff. People volunteer because they want to help make the event happen, connect with others, and have a real impact on the experience for festival goers and families.

People also volunteer because they want to support the community. Helping run the festival strengthens local arts, culture, and neighborhood spirit, while also making sure visitors feel welcomed, safe, and well taken care of throughout the day. Many volunteers also enjoy the friendships and sense of belonging that come from working with others who care about the event.

It is also a great way to build real world experience. Volunteers gain teamwork, customer service, communication, and leadership skills, and they have opportunities to connect with local businesses, vendors, and sponsors. Plus, many people

like knowing they are part of something bigger that brings the whole area together.

For some, volunteering is personal. It can support a cause tied to the festival, provide a meaningful social outlet, and offer a behind the scenes look at how big events run, which helps future careers in event planning, hospitality, marketing, or similar fields. It is also a way to give back through reciprocity, showing gratitude for the community support that makes the festival possible.

High school students who need volunteering hours often find this an ideal option. The roles are structured and supported, making it easier to complete required hours while building skills and experience you can talk about later.

Volunteer roles include many different jobs, so you can choose what fits you best. Options include festival set up on Friday, meet and greet festival goers, explain ticket pricing and hand out

programs, general upkeep, helping our festival visitors, check IDs and drink bracelets, artist assistants, Kid Zone, Wellness Day, Cops N Rodders Car Show, Dog Day and tear down on Sunday afternoon, and more.

Volunteers receive appreciation during the event, including a festival T Shirt, food and drinks during your shift, and for volunteers over 21 a festival glass and a drink ticket. There is also an invitation to a Volunteer Appreciation Party. We could not pull the Art, Wine & Beer Festival together without the amazing volunteers who join in to help; we’re forever grateful.

To sign up, svartfestival. com/volunteer/ or scan the QR code.

Prefer in person help? Come into the Chamber office and we will help you sign up.

Valley Commissions 60 TH Birthday Glasses

s Scotts Valley celebrates its 60th birthday this year, the Scotts Valley Art, Wine and Beer Festival Planning Committee wanted to create something truly special to mark the milestone. The result is a beautiful, limited edition commemorative tasting glass that celebrates the city’s rich history while giving festivalgoers a keepsake they can enjoy for years to come.

The custom designed glasses will be available as part of the festival tasting kits, and organizers are encouraging attendees to purchase their tasting kits early. While advance tasting kit sales are available, the exclusive 60th Anniversary commemorative glasses will be distributed on a first come, first served basis. Once they are gone, they are gone.

Festival organizers recommend

arriving early on Saturday, August 15, to have the best chance of taking home one of these collectible glasses.

The Scotts Valley Art, Wine and Beer Festival has long been one of the community’s most anticipated annual traditions, bringing together outstanding artists, award winning wineries, craft breweries, delicious food, live entertainment and family fun. Behind the scenes, the Planning Committee has spent months pre-

paring this year’s festival, with the goal of making Scotts Valley’s 60th birthday celebration one to remember.

“We’re so excited to share these commemorative glasses with the community,” said festival organizers. “This year is especially meaningful as Scotts Valley celebrates its 60th birthday, and we wanted to create something that reflects the pride we all have in our city. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to another incredible festival.”

Beyond the celebration, the festival serves an important purpose. Proceeds from the Scotts Valley Art, Wine and Beer Festival help fund the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting local businesses, community programs and events throughout the year.

“We’re honored to bring the cel-

ebration that our community looks forward to every year,” organizers said. “This festival is made possible by countless volunteers, sponsors and supporters who believe in making Scotts Valley a vibrant place to live and work. We hope everyone comes out to celebrate with us, enjoy an amazing weekend, and don’t forget to come early to get one of the special 60th Anniversary commemorative glasses.”

The Scotts Valley Art, Wine and Beer Festival takes place August 15 and 16 at Skypark. Organizers promise an exciting weekend filled with art, music, food, wine, beer and community spirit as Scotts Valley celebrates six decades of history and looks ahead to an exciting future.

Scotts Valley Chamber News

SLV Tech Services Joins the Chamber with Tech

Donates Marketing Expertise to Scotts Valley Art, Wine and Beer Festival

Zalan Nunez of SLV Tech Services has officially joined the Chamber, and he did not stop there. He immediately stepped into the Ambassador program, and now he is volunteering to take over our social media marketing for the Scotts Valley Art, Wine and Beer Festival. We’re delighted! With a background spanning both hands-on technology support and results-driven marketing, Zalan is poised to help the festival connect with the right community and communicate with clarity, consistency, and momentum.

Based in Boulder Creek, SLV Tech Services brings professional tech help directly to homes and businesses across the San Lorenzo Valley and Santa Cruz Mountains. Instead of asking people to haul equipment down the hill or deal with the frustration of being told they are outside a service area, SLV Tech Services offers on-site house calls across Boulder Creek, Ben Lomond, Felton, Brookdale, Bonny Doon, and Scotts Valley. When a same-day fix is possible from anywhere, Zalan also provides remote screen-share support, giving clients a fast path to solutions without unnecessary delays.

SLV Tech Services specializes in computer repair and troubleshooting for both Mac and PC, Wi-Fi and home network setup, including the connectivity challenges many people face in the mountain areas; smart home device installation, printer setup and support, data backup, security cleanups, new device setup, tech tutoring, and tech consulting for home offices and small businesses.

With over 25 years of technology and service experience, Zalan continues to stay trained in new and emerging technologies, bringing both practical experience and up-to-date knowhow to every request.

clear benefits you deliver. The story behind the mission matters. The visual package matters too; name, logo, colors, tone of voice, style of visuals, and consistency but Zalan emphasizes that the message must land clearly so people instantly understand what makes you worth choosing.

data, Zalan speaks the language of metrics. He can help track reach, engagement, click-through, leads, and conversions, and then adjust to improve performance over time. That is exactly the kind of disciplined energy the Chamber and festival team are excited to have on board.

Beyond technology, Zalan brings a second strength that many people may not realize. He is also a marketing and social media whiz through his other company, SLV Brand and Marketing, which is helping power outreach and advertising for the upcoming Art, Wine and Beer Festival. Branding, in his view, is not just the look of a business. It is the foundation of who you are, why you are different, and the

In the social media world, Zalan helps turn ideas into strategy. That means planning what gets posted, how often, and what the posts are designed to accomplish. It also means leaning into audience engagement through thoughtful replying, meaningful commenting, relationship building, collaboration, and creating community. With so many content options available, it is easy to get lost in what to do next. Zalan brings focus to the mix; short videos, carousels, stories, live streams, posts, case studies, and testimonials, so the festival can show up in ways that fit each platform and resonate with the audience it is meant to reach.

For businesses who love results backed by

We encourage everyone to like and follow the Scotts Valley Art, Wine and Beer Festival on Instagram and Facebook to see the difference firsthand and to stay up to date on what is coming next, and how the festival story is being told. Follow the festival on Instagram: @svartwinebeerfestival and Facebook: ScottsValleyArtWineBeerFestival.

Also Mark your calendars to attend the festival at Skypark on August 15–16. With Zalan leading the social media effort, the Chamber community can expect more visibility, clearer messaging, and stronger engagement as festival plans move closer to showtime.

For more information about working with Zalan, whether you need tech support through SLV Tech Services, branding and marketing help through SLV Brand and Marketing, or both, visit bookwithzalan.com.

Wellness Day at the Art, Wine & Beer Festival: An Idea Years in the Making

The idea of creating a dedicated wellness experience in Scotts Valley is not new. For years, the Scotts Valley Chamber and TherapyWorks have continued to revisit the opportunity, recognizing how naturally it aligns with the needs, resources, and spirit of the local community.

In fact, a standalone wellness event was already well into the planning stages and close to taking place in 2020. Unfortunately, those plans were brought to a halt by the COVID-19 pandemic. While the event could not move forward at the time, the vision never went away.

Scotts Valley and the surrounding Santa Cruz community are home to an incredible number of practitioners, clinics, studios, nonprofit organizations, and local businesses doing meaningful work in health and wellness.

Yet there has never been one dedicated moment in Scotts Valley when the community could discover and connect with so many of these resources in one place.

Over time, the Art, Wine & Beer Festival emerged as the perfect home for bringing that original vision

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back to life. It is one of the few weekends when the entire valley comes together to celebrate local art, music, businesses, and community life. Wellness is already deeply connected to all those things; it simply needed a more visible place within the festival.

This idea has been years in the making. It took the right timing, the right partners, and a shared commitment to reimagine it and finally bring it to life.

“Welness Day” page 14

This role performs a variety of customer service functions such as processing customer requests for service, maintaining customer records, processing billing and payments, and addressing customer inquiries and complaints. Pay range is $33.72-$52.20/hour. Learn more about this position at svwd.org Applications are now being accepted, apply immediately.

Visit Santa Cruz County Celebrates New Visitor Center

The Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce joined fellow county chambers, local dignitaries, and community partners in June for a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating Visit Santa Cruz County’s new Visitor Information Center in downtown Santa Cruz, located next to the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History.

The event marked an important milestone for Visit Santa Cruz County, the nonprofit organization and official visitor marketing entity for the county, which works to strengthen tourism, enhance the visitor experience, and promote Santa Cruz County as a year-round destination for leisure travel, conferences, and film production.

During the celebration, Visit Santa Cruz County CEO Terence Concannon spoke about the importance of inclusion, acces sibility, and creating welcoming spaces for all travelers.

A highlight of the new center is its sen sory-friendly quiet room, designed to support neurodivergent visitors and their families with a calm, low-sensory environment.

Attendees toured the new location and celebrated the organization’s continued com mitment to inclusive hospitality and regional partnership.

Visitors are encouraged to stop by the new center at 705 Front Street in downtown Santa Cruz.

Scotts Valley Chamber News

It’s Time For ‘Dog Day Sunday’

August 16

Kim Pursley, Chamber Board Vice President and owner of Kalani Day Spa loves all the animals but became dog obsessed after she adopted her fox red lab Angel, the worlds sweetest dog.

Then came Buster, a spunky little jack russel who has mellowed into his old man stage these days and now there’s Tallie, a 3-year-old white lab who loves to garden.

Kim is excited to jump in to help manage Sundays Dog Day at the Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival.

Danielle Ratliff from the Good Times & Press Banner loves doing events and working with the community — it’s always been a passion for her.

So when asked, she was happy to jump on board to help.

This will be her first dog day, and she’s excited to see all the variety of dogs, their skills, and of course the costumes!

Her Boxer Tucker will be celebrating his 13th Birthday on Dog Day, and he’s a very good boy!

Along with a dedicated team of helpers, judges, local animal themed businesses &

“Welness Day” from page 12

We are incredibly excited that this is the year Wellness Day officially becomes part of the festival experience.

The Vision: Bringing Wellness into Everyday Community Life

TherapyWorks’ vision for Wellness Day is to create a welcoming, approachable space where people can easily explore and connect with the many health and wellness resources available within their own community.

Someone might walk through the event and discover that an acupuncturist, therapist, skin expert, fitness professional, or wellness studio is located just a few blocks from their home. A parent may have the opportunity to ask a real question about their child’s anxiety. Someone else may pick up a resource, learn about a service they did not know existed, or make a connection that supports their health in the future.

non-profits plus Phil Gomez to host it all, Kim & Danielle are excited to have the best day ever with the overwhelming amount of doggie cuteness headed their way.

You should probably just go ahead and sign your pup up for at least one of these categories:

• Best Costume

• Best Trick

• Best Look-a-Like

• Best Pooch Smooch

• Smallest Dog

• Largest Dog

• Fastest Fetcher

• Best Voice — Sing, Talk, Bark

EarthWise Pet is coming back after a hiatus to trim doggie nails for a donation to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter. We’ll have great exhibitors who are signing up as we go to press!

Cops N’ Rodders Car Show Come Join the Fun

Saturday August 15

7 – 8 a.m. — Registered participants meet at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for Check-in.

8 a.m. — Police Motorcycle Escorted Cruise will begin, traveling from the boardwalk along the scenic coast to Capitola and then back to Skypark in Scotts Valley.

9 a.m. — Car Show opens to the public!

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Judging takes place

2 p.m. — Winners Announced

There will be pups available for adoption, prizes, ribbons and a secret party we’re not revealing yet. Stay tuned! Sign your doggie up here: svartfestival.com/ dog-day/

We want Wellness Day to feel personal and accessible, not overly clinical or intimidating. It is about making education, prevention, connection, and support part of a community experience that people are already enjoying.

Art, music, connection, and wellness naturally belong together because wellness does not begin and end in a treatment room or waiting room. It is part of how we live, how we connect, and how we care for ourselves and one another every day.

Ultimately, we hope people leave Wellness Day with a greater sense of what is available locally, and with the feeling that this is a community that truly takes care of its people.

Why TherapyWorks Said Yes: Awareness Is the Beginning of Access

At TherapyWorks, we have seen too many individuals and families wait until life becomes overwhelming before discovering

that meaningful support has been available in their own community all along.

Since 2009, TherapyWorks has been committed to helping people across Santa Cruz County and the greater Bay Area find the right support when it matters most. One of the most important lessons we have learned through that work is that access begins with awareness. People cannot reach out for help, take a preventive step, or connect with the right resource if they do not know what is available or where to begin.

Wellness Day closely aligns with the heart of TherapyWorks’ mission: making care and support feel more approachable, personal, and easier to access. It gives us the opportunity to bring local resources directly into the community in a setting that feels comfortable, positive, and free of pressure. People can meet providers as real people, ask honest questions, and begin building familiarity and trust, sometimes long before they may ever need a service.

If Wellness Day helps one family dis-

cover the right provider a year earlier than they otherwise would have or helps one person realize they do not have to navigate a challenge alone, then every bit of the work will have been worthwhile.

Collaboration has always been an important part of how TherapyWorks serves the community. We believe we are better together and that our collective impact becomes stronger when local providers, organizations, and businesses come together around a shared purpose. Rather than continue talking about this idea for another five years, we were ready to help build it alongside the Scotts Valley Chamber and our local wellness community.

When the Chamber invited TherapyWorks to help bring Wellness Day to life, saying yes was easy. We’re excited to add Wellness Day to the Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival. Come say hello & learn more about the incredible resources available in our area on Saturday, August 15th at Skypark, Admission is free.

Firefighter Moonlights as Marine Biologist

Wonders of the Ocean Have Always Drawn Fascination

By JON CHOWN

He’s no scientist, but Eric Mailander, 60, has learned a lot about marine life during his years. In fact, he’s learned so much that scientists from the Shark Lab at California State University Monterey Bay have come to him for information and now he helps their research.

Mailander owns a cabin Ben Lomond and has worked for the San Jose Fire Department as a firefighter/paramedic for 20 years. He is also an amateur photographer and loves wildlife, especially Marine life. It’s been a passion of his since watching the Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau on TV as a child. At age 11 he was already scuba diving.

“I wanted to be a marine biologist,” he said. “I went a separate route, but it’s still a hobby.”

Mailander is often out in the water taking photos of sharks and other marine life. He’s been studying most everything that swims the Monterey Bay for many years. He would often send photos to the Shark Lab, and then he started doing drone surveys on his own and relaying that information. Eventually he

was invited to help with a scientific paper the lab was working on. After that, more work, all of it as a volunteer, followed.

“I get to work under their permits. I get to take pictures and help science. It’s very rewarding,” he said.

Mailander was recently at Ano Nuevo Island helping to tag sharks and complete DNA studies. He was even asked once by the Discovery Channel to take part in a project for Shark Week, but he said it would have interfered with his real job.

Readers might recognize his name from social media. He is often posting photos of sharks and other animals on Aptosia and other local pages. He will occasionally get his friend Chris Guillarte to help him. Guillarte owns Specialized Aviation in Watsonville and will fly the two up in his helicopter to look at what’s in the ocean. Mailander said he wants to educate people about the ocean and sharks. People should not fear them, he said.

“Eric Mailander” page 19

Eric Mailander and his boat.

Sandman Triathlon Returns in August

Event Benefits Santa Cruz State Lifeguard Program

By JON CHOWN

One of Santa Cruz County’s longestrunning endurance events, the Sandman Triathlon, will be even closer to the water this year when athletes gather Sunday, Aug. 23, at Seacliff State Beach.

“We are changing the bike course a little bit to stay closer to the ocean and avoid big hills and roads with many intersections,” said Veronica Spalekova, race director.

First held in 1985 during the early years of the sport, the Sandman Triathlon has become a local tradition while serving as a fundraiser for lifeguard programs and youth water-safety education.

“The Sandman has been a staple of the Santa Cruz County endurance community since 1985, drawing its classic status from its incredibly unique geography. It kicks off at Seacliff State Beach with a brisk 0.75-mile swim right around the historic S.S. Palo Alto Cement Ship. From there, athletes take on a rolling, scenic 13-mile bike ride through Aptos before finishing with a grueling, but breathtaking, 4-mile run directly on the sand to New Brighton Beach and back. It’s a pure, gritty, California beach race through and through,” said Spalekova.

The event is sanctioned by USA Triathlon and benefits the Santa Cruz State Lifeguard Association, a nonprofit organization operated by active California State Parks lifeguards in Santa Cruz County.

Proceeds support state park and lifeguard operations, the Santa Cruz State Junior Lifeguard Program and scholarships that help underprivileged children receive water-safety instruction. The race begins at 8 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 23, at Seacliff State Beach.

Athletes ages 16 to 99 are eligible to compete in the individual triathlon. There is also a duathlon for competitors ages 16 to 99, featuring a run, a 13-mile bike segment and a 4-mile run. Team competition is available for participants ages 12 to 99, with team members completing the swim, bike and run portions collectively.

“We are expecting roughly 200 participants across our individual triathlon, duathlon, and team relay categories, plus all the families, volunteers, and spectators who come out to pack the beach and cheer them on,” said Spalekova.

Race-day registration opens at 6:30 a.m., while the transition area opens at 7 a.m. The first triathlon wave is scheduled to start promptly at 8 a.m., with the duathlon beginning at approximately 8:30 a.m. on the north side of the transition area.

Parking at Seacliff State Beach will cost $10, with proceeds supporting the park. Awards will be presented following the race.

“What makes the Sandman so special is that every registration fee and donation goes right back into protecting the very waters we race in,” said Spalekova. “This event serves as a critical fundraiser for local State Parks, lifeguard operations, and the Junior Lifeguard program. Specifically, the proceeds fund scholarships for underprivileged kids in our community, ensuring they have access to high-quality water safety education. When you support the Sandman, you aren’t just supporting a historic multisport event—you’re actively investing in youth water safety and the next generation of ocean athletes.” n

“Woman

While the murder was planned, the complaint alleges Leibelt selected Summers at random. Authorities say they’ve found no indication that Leibelt and Summers knew each other before the attack.

Summers worked at the mall and was the manager of Art of Santa Cruz, a nonprofit store that sells the work of local artists. According to social media, she was a mom and grandmother. A GoFundMe page has been created to raise college funds for her grandson, who is soon to turn one.

“Rachell was a loving and devoted grandmother, mom, and friend who loved her community,” wrote organizer Mya McLelan.

Leibelt was being held without bail while his arraignment was scheduled July 29, the day this publication was sent to print. The Capitola Police Department continues to investigate the case with assistance from the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office Forensic Services Unit,

“BESS Ordinance” from page 8

Utility-scale energy projects must secure positions in the state’s electrical interconnection process years in advance, and delays can increase costs while threatening those positions.

Instead of continuing with the county, New Leaf submitted the Seahawk proposal to the California Energy Commission under Assembly Bill 205. In his letter, Christian said the state process would still require extensive environmental review, review by battery safety experts, coordination with local fire agencies, preparation of emergency response plans and opportunities for public participation.

Public is Wary of Project

The project has drawn strong opposition from many South County residents and elected officials. Last year, the Watsonville City Council voted to send a letter to Santa Cruz County opposing the proposed battery storage facility.

Council members cited concerns about locating a large battery energy storage project near neighborhoods and agricultural land and urged the county to adopt strict safety standards before approving any proposal.

Those concerns helped shape many of the provisions later added to the county’s draft ordinance, particularly those involving emergency response planning, environmental monitoring, financial responsibility and protections for farmland.

Although the county will no longer complete the ordinance, supervisors said they want the work that went into developing it to influence the state’s review

[Rachell] Summers worked at the mall and was the manager of Art of Santa Cruz, a nonprofit store that sells the work of local artists. According to social media, she was a mom and grandmother. A GoFundMe page has been created to raise college funds for her grandson, who is soon to turn one.

the Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s Office and the Santa Cruz Anti-Crime Team. n

Police are asking anyone who witnessed the stabbing or has photographs, video or other information to contact the Capitola Police Department at (831) 475-4242.

of the Seahawk project. The letter to the California Energy Commission asks commissioners to ensure that any battery storage project approved in Santa Cruz County meets standards that are at least equivalent to those proposed by the county.

Justin Cummings, county supervisor for District 3, said he wished the county would have completed the ordinance, noting that the public had demanded stricter provisions than the current draft and supervisors had agreed. One glaring omission was the county’s oversight of any ownership transfers, the issue that New Leaf found most untenable.

“I think part of what isn’t clear is whether or not the board has any ability to deny an ownership transfer,” Cummings said. “If Vistra comes along and wants to buy this facility and we know that they’re a bad actor, do we really want to allow that type of transfer and that operator to come into our community when they have a history of negligence?”

District 2 Supervisor Kimberly De Serpa said she had concerns about losing agricultural land to the BESS plant, nor did she like the location. She said she was told by New Leaf that PG&E needed the plant to store energy for the “west side.”

“Having the people of Watsonville take the risk so that we could push energy to the west side doesn’t seem right, just or fair to me,” she said.

After some more discussion, Cummings moved to approve the staff recommendation to send the letter to the state, along with the ordinance, but with the addition that the board must approve a transfer of ownership, as well as additional considerations when a BESS plant is proposed on agricultural land. n

South & North Nodes | Direction & Destiny — Past & Present/Future

There are many potent changes occurring in the heavens these days, signifying many changes, transformations and challenges precipitating here on earth, too (Earth reflects the heavens). Last Sunday, in the heavens, the Nodes of Destiny (south/north nodes-direction) changed signs. From Virgo/Pisces to Leo/Aquarius. The nodes are points in space where the Moon’s orbit crosses the Earth’s orbit around the Sun. In astrology the nodes represent the energies of yin/yang, reflective/expressive, receptive/radiating, Moon/Sun, past/present-future. The nodes, naturally retrograde, are always opposite each other.

The South Node holds our talents, gifts and abilities cultivated in previous lifetimes. The North Node gathers, recapitulates and renews the South Node talents, moving us forward into our present/future purpose. The North Node (along with our rising sign) lead us to the work (dharma), talents and abilities to be unfolded in this lifetime. The North Node is our North Star. In Vedic astrology, North Node is called Rahu, the South Node Ketu.

As the nodes shifted into Aquarius North Node and Leo South Node, we note the significance of Aquarius North Node. Our Sun is presently entering the atmosphere and air of Aquarius, remaining in Aquarius for the next 2,500 years.

When nodes change (every 18 months), new learnings, tasks, responsibilities and developments are presented to humanity. Humanity’s interests and patterns of behavior change, too. A new tone, sound, vibration and color enter the Earth.

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 9)

The focus of intention and aspiration is on communication (how) and values (what are they?). The two are linked. There is also possibly a wound around each. The more we value self and others, the more ability we have to communicate with kindness and benevolence. It would be good to consider yourself a World Server. One who always acts from Goodwill which creates compassion and Right Relations. A new identity, perhaps.

TAURUS (Apr 10 – May 20)

You deeply influence others. There’s a magnetic appeal and charm radiating from you that many are attracted to. You’re like a light in the darkness, harmony calming chaos, beauty easing the storms. When there’s a problem, when the general state of affairs is disrupted, it’s to Taurus that all eyes turn for direction and understanding. New projects need initiating. However, before doing so, you need a deep, healing rest in solitude.

GEMINI (May 21 – Jun 20)

You may encounter various interactions that include contracts, superiors, officials, parents, leadership and work responsibilities. While interacting with important people, your leadership skills are recognized and applauded. Many things hoped for come into focus. If parents are alive, be very aware of their needs. If they are no longer in physical form, recite Ohm Mani Padme Hum (Tibetan Mantram of Compassion). Do not disregard rules, laws, orders, your credit or a mountain far away that beckons.

CANCER (Jun 21 – Jul 22)

Some group or groups are very vital to your well-being now. They provide initiating ideas, a new sense of identity, a social milieu leading to opportunities where visions can be shared. Over time, new people may come into your life or perhaps community projects will emerge, with tasks only you can successfully complete. Whatever the situation, determine your ideals, hopes, wishes and dreams. And move towards them with a one-pointed,, focused mind. Do not ignore friends.

The North Node of Aquarius thus aligns with the new path appearing. Aquarius, the sign of humanity, focuses on freedom and cooperation, offering the new tool and language and study needed by humanity — astrology. Leo’s South Node calls humanity to recognize and cultivate its creativity. Aquarius will ask each of us what talents, gifts and abilities will we offer to the unfolding new world. Aquarius calls humanity to re-enter the Garden. What will you bring to the Garden this time? What will your tasks be?

As for the Aquarian tool of astrology — Astrology, the purest presentation of occult truth. It’s scientific. Describing the energies within the space we live in. Everything we learn in astrology helps us develop our awareness. Astrology has an inherent language based on symbols, geometries and numbers. Knowing and studying astrology removes all opinions and criticisms and judgments of self and others. We realize nothing is wrong with this paradise we live in. Everything is perfect, in right timing, magical and love underlies all happenings. n

LEO (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

This is your birthday month. We hope for you friends and frivolity, cakes and cupcakes, games, parties and intelligent conversation to celebrate (more than one day is best) your new year. Birthdays aren’t really felt and don’t actually occur until we contact our protecting angels, presenting them with a coming-year job description of our hopes, wishes and needs and ending our birth day with deep gratitude. Happy Birthday, in advance. Solitude and retreat in community are best. Partying, too!

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Reality appears in ways different than before. Your perception alters, becoming more refined. This continues through the coming months. Let confusion become a potential for growth, defining new daily structures. Be aware of the quality of your communication. Virgos talk continuously in order to understand and integrate their thoughts to themselves. Listen to yourself more. What are you trying to say? Then try a bit of silence. See what it tells you. Listen to the birds at dawn as you sit in the new morning’s sunlight.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You have many secret talents hidden behind your charm and smile. Libra is always and forever charming. Charm is Libra’s main virtue. However, behind the charm is a power which many don’t realize. This power shows itself as discipline, responsibility, and a deep seriousness sometimes misunderstood as gloom. A restructuring of your self-identity is occurring. This is then shifting your creativity – a new creativity is appearing. We know ourselves by what we create. Should a wound appear, conserve your strength, paint, draw, dance, and play more. It’s cherry season.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Family is most important. Are they your allies, intimates and friends? Do you have partners and/or competitors? Are you considering a change of environment due to a shift in interests, a call to a new state of livingness, a new foundation of new values? What are others requesting of you? Do you have the strength for this or must you gather different friends and acquaintances to help you? Through daily life demands, you find yourself developing emotional poise and making certain life decisions. You are always the warrior.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

So much work to do, so many people to communicate with, so many things to create, fulfill, so many demands, everyone depending on you for things great and small, here and there. At times you sense the past drifting about, in the ethers, the air, the shadows. It can be exhausting without reprieve. Everything is a focus for you — from surroundings to people to daily work methods to nourishment to a state of stability — a central concern. Let everything fall away. Stand still, be still. Something else is there.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

What are the main objects of your affection? What do you value the most? What calls forth your interests, creative talents and activities? You are a leader. Answers to these questions are important for your identity in the world. A good leader always is curious about, promotes and strengthens the interests of others. This produces within a love that others, in gratitude, have for you. Define your new daily goals for health and well-being. Write more. Especially about what you value and what you need.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Everything for a while concerns communication, friends, neighbors, home and family, children, property and foundations, parents and elders, creating and nurturing things that make up your life. The foundations referred to concern daily life achievements. Think in practical ways how to improve all environments you find yourself in. Pay attention to what sustains, comforts and soothes you. And what allows you to be creative? Home needs an expansion.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You need communication that is kind and giving, contacts that sustain a home and its comforts, environments inviting your knowledge and wisdom to come forth. Should you find yourself with people and places that do not provide these or understand you, change your environment. There’s no more proving yourself, no more offering and giving of self to those who cannot see, understand, hear, or receive. You’re called elsewhere. It’s a religious sort of place, maybe an ashram, or a village community that’s Aquarian, with a warm swimming pool. I can see it. Can you?

“Wharf to Wharf” from page 10

Beyond the scenic seaside course and cool summer weather, another major draw of the W2W is the festive, welcoming atmosphere for athletes of all ages and abilities. Individuals, friends, families, school groups, co-workers and others get together to share the experience of improving health, setting goals, meeting challenges and testing what is possible. That positive experience is at the core of W2W’s mission.

Debby Tuck, owner of the Capitola Sands vacation rental in Capitola Village, led a group of about 20 friends on the run. “Most of us are connected from our work and our kids growing up together, and a few of us have homes here in Capitola and Santa Cruz. I saw the race was coming, so I reached out to everyone and said let’s do the Wharf to Wharf together. So here we all are!” Debby’s group of “Salty Striders” were having a blast decked out in color-coordinated gear and cheeky T-shirts.

It was the first race together for the Salty Striders, and the first of its kind for Debby’s husband Brian. Brian’s participation was all the more impressive considering he recently received a liver transplant and has been working through healing and rehabilitation to get to this point.

“He’s never done anything like this,” said Debby. “I’m so proud of Brian for doing this race. It was a huge accomplishment for him to even try, and to finish in 1:45!”

In Brian’s case, he said he wants to “motivate others, encourage others to be organ donors, and keep moving and smiling.” n

The W2W is produced and administered by Wharf to Wharf Race Inc., a California nonprofit corporation chartered to promote running as a means to health and fitness. In service of this mission, the Race has, since its inception in 1973, contributed more than $6 million dollars to Santa Cruz County youth sports programs in general and the running community in particular, according to its website. W2W is a boost to local business, annually infusing more than 8 million dollars into the Santa Cruz County economy.

CrossFit Aptos

Salty Striders

Grand Jury Urges Santa Cruz County to Take Stronger Steps to Protect Pedestrians

By JON CHOWN

SANTA CRUZ — The Santa Cruz County Civil Grand Jury is calling on local governments to improve pedestrian safety after finding the county continues to rank among the worst in California for people killed or seriously injured while walking.

In a report titled Walking in the County of Santa Cruz is Not for the Faint of Heart:

Can Vision Zero Help?, the 2025-26 Civil Grand Jury said the county, the City of Santa Cruz and the City of Watsonville have all committed to the Vision Zero program but have not yet adopted action plans needed to put the program into effect.

additional transportation grants from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

According to the Grand Jury report, Santa Cruz County ranks among the worst 20% of California’s 58 counties for pedestrian deaths and serious injuries in five of the seven years from 2017 through 2023.

During that time, the county recorded between 80 and 125 pedestrians killed or seriously injured each year.

Trail help separate pedestrians and bicyclists from vehicle traffic.

However, the report said some projects leave dangerous “safety gaps.” The Whale Bridge, for example, provides a safe crossing over Highway 1, but pedestrians leaving the north side of the bridge must walk past several busy driveways that have no sidewalks.

The report also raised concerns about sidewalk maintenance.

Under California law, property owners are responsible for maintaining sidewalks

next to their property. Cracked pavement, raised sidewalks caused by tree roots and overgrown plants can all create hazards for people walking.

The grand jury found that local governments mostly depend on residents to report sidewalk problems and faded crosswalk markings. While online reporting systems exist, many people may not know they are available.

“Pedestrians” page 22

Vision Zero is an international safety strategy that aims to reduce traffic deaths and serious injuries to zero. It recognizes that people make mistakes and focuses on designing roads and transportation systems that prevent those mistakes from becoming deadly crashes.

The grand jury said adopting Vision Zero action plans would help local governments set goals, measure progress and qualify for

Watsonville particularly needs to improve. Compared with 103 California cities of similar size, Watsonville ranked among the state’s 10 worst cities for pedestrian deaths and serious injuries in six of the seven years studied. The City Santa Cruz didn’t fare much better. It ranked among the 10 worst comparable cities in three of those seven years.

The grand jury said many improvements have already been made to make walking safer. Projects such as the Highway 1 Whale Bridge, improvements along Bay Avenue in Santa Cruz, Green Valley Road in Watsonville, Soquel Drive and sections of the Rail

“Eric Mailander” from page 15

“People really fear our sharks. They get really close, but they’re not here to attack people,” he said. “When people see these sharks I want them to feel privileged to see them, not to fear them.”

Mailander said that if you are in the water and see a shark, stay calm. Don’t paddle or kick. “Don’t go crazy. The shark will check you out and leave.”

One way to be safer is to not swim among seals and sea lions, where you might get mistaken for their prey. Also, Mailander said most shark attacks happen in the fall or winter, when sharks are returning from the deep ocean hungry, looking for food.

There’s no reason to shorten your summer fun because of sharks, he said.

This summer is especially interesting, Mailander said, due to the extreme El Niño. With the ocean being so warm in Southern California, a lot of marine life is moving up to the Monterey Bay that we would not normally see.

“The abundance of sea life out there is incredible. We’re getting a lot of vagrants in the area: leather back turtles from New Guinea, tropical birds, bluefin tuna, blue whales. It’s a sure sign El Niño is hitting,” he said. “The water is warmer, so everything that’s usually down there, we are going to see up here. We might even see marlin and sail fish.”

Kids’ Classics

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

ANNOUNCEMENTS

MARY ALTIER’S PHOTO EXHIBIT AT APTOS LIBRARY

Mary Altier’s photo exhibition, Around the World with Color Photography is on display at the Aptos Library until Sept. 30.

The show includes 60 images taken in Papua New Guinea, China, Italy, India, several countries in Africa, and more.

A reception promoting the exhibit will take place Sat., Aug. 1, 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Refreshments, wine and waters, and ongoing slide show of recent work. Free and the public is invited.

Aptos Branch Library, 7695 Soquel Dr. Hours: M-Th 10-7, F-Sat, 10-5. Closed Sunday.

SENIORS SOUGHT FOR THEATER GROUP

Seniors are being sought to join the Market Street Theater Group.

Whether you love being on stage or helping behind the scenes, there’s a place for you in their community.

Discover the power of music, dance, and performing by calling 831-423-6640 or email marketstreettheater@ gmail for more information.

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.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS

7 p.m., Congregational Church Preschool Meeting Room, 4951 Soquel Ave., Soquel

Overeaters Anonymous welcomes any type of eating disorder or problems with food.

No dues, fees or weigh-ins.

Meetings take place at Congregational Church in the preschool meeting room. All are welcome.

Overeaters Anonymous (OA) has meetings daily both in-person and on-line in Santa Cruz County at santacruzoa.org.

Fourth Mondays (Third Monday in May due to Memorial Day) THE SPOKEN EXPERIENCE

Noon – 1 p.m., Capitola Branch Library, 2005 Wharf Rd Each month a community of readers gather to share selections from a featured poet.

Join local poets Paola Bruni, Elaine Fletcher Chapman and Jessica Cohn as they lead the discussion.

Upcoming poet focus:

August 24: Lucile Clifton

September 28: Sharon Olds

October 26: Juan Felipe Herrera

November 23: Ada Limon

December 28: Jericho Brown

Tuesdays

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

BINGO AT MCSC

Have a virtual or live event you want to promote? E-mail info (no PDFs please) to info@cyber-times.com

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

Hot Dogs, Chili and snacks available for purchase courtesy of our Snack Shack. A lot of fun for all and a possible big win!

Door opens at 12:15 p.m.

Tuesdays and Fridays

NORTH BOOKMOBILE AT PAJARO PARK

Tues.: 3 –5 p.m. | Fri.: 2-3:30 p.m., Pajaro Community Park, 24 San Juan Rd.

The Monterey County Free Libraries North Bookmobile serves Pajaro with scheduled visits, offering books, audiobooks, DVDs, magazines, and bilingual materials in English and Spanish.

Upcoming Dates:

Tues: Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25 Fri: Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28.

For full schedule, visit https://tinyurl.com/Pajaro-Parkbookmobile-visits.

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. 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.

Thursdays in August

CROW’S NEST FREE BEACH BBQ CONCERT SERIES

5:30–8 p.m., Santa Cruz Harbor Beach, 2222 E Cliff Dr.

The Crow’s Nest Free Beach BBQ Concert Series features live music, BBQ food and drinks for purchase, and oceanfront views at Santa Cruz Harbor Beach.

Aug. 6: The Houserockers

Aug. 13: The Joint Chiefs

Aug. 20: La Familia

Aug. 27: Alex Lucero Band Free admission. Parking is limited; a free water taxi is available from nearby lots.

More info at https://www.santacruz.org/upcoming-events/.

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.

SANTA CRUZ DINNER CLUB

First Sundays

5 p.m., various member homes throughout county Looking to make new friends while enjoying amazing food and great wine?

The SC Dinner Club is welcoming new members! Each month, we gather in homes throughout Santa Cruz County for delicious dinners, fine wine, lively conversation, and lots of laughter.

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.sevysbarandkitchen.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 Beach Library to reserve your seat: 831-427-7710.

First and Third Fridays

JIM GREINER’S HANDS-ON! DRUMMING

7-8:30 p.m., Congregational Church of Soquel, 4951 Soquel Dr. Percussionist/educator Jim Greiner continues his Community Rhythms Class on the first and third Fridays of every month at the Congregational Church of Soquel. All levels of experience are very welcome to this family-friendly community gathering. Jim provides percussion instruments and you are welcome to bring your own.

Come play, socialize and reinforce Jim’s fundamental themes of communicating, collaborating and celebrating through rhythm!

$10 donation is requested. Doors open at 6:30.

Last Friday of the Month thru October FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY AT SKYPARK

5–8 p.m., Skypark, 361 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley Food Trucks A Go Go presents an evening of local eats, live music and activities for all ages.

The monthly event supports Scotts Valley schools through beverage sales and offers a welcoming community gathering. Admission is free.

For details, visit foodtrucksagogo.com.

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.

Whether you love to cook, enjoy entertaining, or simply want to meet friendly people who share your interests, our dinner club is a fun way to build new friendships and create memorable evenings. Come join us at the table!

For more information, contact Rhonda Mills at rhondaloves2paint@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.

Third Saturdays thru August

MUSIC ON THE GREEN

2-5 p.m., Aptos Village Patio (Behind New Leaf Market)

A new tradition is starting in the new Aptos Village. Music on the Green Summer Concert Series is making its debut this month.

Enjoy a live band for three hours on the third Saturday of July and August. Bring a lawn chair or just wander through the mini park behind New Leaf Market at the end of Parade Street as the bands play on the stage.

July 18: Suns of Surf (Coastal Roots Groove and Reggae) Aug 15: Alecia Haselton Band (Americana/Folk/Rock) Look for specials at the surrounding markets. Free to attend.

Saturdays and Sundays

ELKHORN SLOUGH: FREE TOUR OF THE PRESERVE

10 a.m. | 11 a.m., Elkhorn Slough Reserve, 1700 Elkhorn Rd., 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.

First Sundays

SANTA CRUZ DINNER CLUB

5 p.m. at various member homes throughout county Love to cook, entertain and socialize? Our monthly dinner club events will be held in several homes throughout Santa Cruz County where members enjoy delicious meals, fine wine and conversation.

Joining the club provides a great opportunity to cook, to entertain, and to meet locals that share your interests. Want to join us? Learn more about the SC Dinner Club and the fun we have by contacting Rhonda Mills at rhondaloves2paint@gmail.com.

DATED EVENTS

Friday July 31

Saturday August 1

FIRST ALOHA MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL SANTA CRUZ 12–6 p.m. daily (gates open 11 a.m.), Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 E. Lake Ave., Watsonville

The inaugural Aloha Music & Arts Festival Santa Cruz is a free two-day celebration of Hawaiian, Polynesian, and Pacific Island cultures featuring local musicians, hula schools, artists, food vendors, and community organizations. Produced by Victor Ohana Productions LLC, the event highlights Santa Cruz County talent and cultural connections to the Pacific.

Attendees can expect Pacific-inspired cuisine, arts and crafts vendors, nonprofit information booths, and family-friendly cultural activities throughout the weekend. Admission is free, though donations are welcome. Parking is $20 per vehicle with no in-and-out privileges. Re-entry requires an additional fee.

More info available through Victor Ohana Productions LLC.

Saturday August 1

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS BREWGRASS FESTIVAL

Noon–6 p.m., Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton

The sixth annual Santa Cruz Mountains Brewgrass Festival brings together live bluegrass music, local craft breweries and food trucks in the redwood forests of Roaring Camp. Featured performers include Sam Bush, Rainbow

Girls, Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band, Dominique and the Diamonds, Deep Thicket Dwellers and Wild Iris.

General admission includes access to music and festival activities, while VIP tasting train tickets are available. Children 11 and younger are admitted free. For tickets and information, visit scmbrewgrassfest.com.

Saturday August 1

Sunday August 2

WATSONVILLE STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

11 a.m.–8 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Sunday, Downtown Watsonville

The Watsonville Strawberry Festival returns to downtown Watsonville for two days of family-friendly entertainment celebrating the Pajaro Valley’s most important crop.

Founded in 1994 to help revitalize downtown after the Loma Prieta earthquake, the festival features community groups, nonprofit fundraisers, food, entertainment and activities.

The weekend begins Saturday morning with the Strawberry Jam Fun Run and Walk, including 1K and 5K events.

Festival organizers encourage visitors to review road closures and event rules before attending. For details, registration information and updates, visit watsonville.gov.

Tuesday August 4

NORTH COUNTY DEMS HOST SCCRTC SPEAKER

6:30 p.m., Scotts Valley Water District Santa Margarita Community Room, 2 Civic Center Drive

The Democratic Club of North Santa Cruz County hosts transportation planner Brianna Goodman of the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission. Goodman will discuss Measure D funding and Highway 9 safety projects, including sidewalks, crosswalks, transit improvements and efforts to reduce speeding. The public is welcome to attend.

Wednesday August 5

DELINQUENT WASTEWATER SERVICE CHARGES PUBLIC HEARING

6:30 p.m., Scotts Valley City Council Chambers, City Hall, 1 Civic Center Drive

The Scotts Valley City Council will hold a public hearing on a report of delinquent wastewater service charges. Residents may speak or submit comments before the council decides whether to place unpaid charges on the county property tax roll.

For more information, call the Administrative Services Department at (831) 440-5614.

Thursday August 6

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING

6 p.m., Scotts Valley City Council Chambers, City Hall, 1 Civic Center Drive

The Scotts Valley Planning Commission will meet to consider development and land-use matters affecting the city.

The meeting is open to the public, and residents may attend to hear agenda items or provide comments. For the agenda and more information, visit www.scottsvalley.gov.

Thursday August 6

thru Sunday August 9

SECOND ANNUAL SANTA CRUZ JUG BAND FESTIVAL

Thu 5:45–7:15 p.m., Pono Hawaiian Grill, 120 Union St., Santa Cruz • Fri 6–9 p.m., Abbott Square Market & MAH, 725 Front St., Santa Cruz • Sat 12–9 p.m., Abbott Square Marketplace, 705 Front St., Santa Cruz • Sun 2–5 p.m., Shanty Shack Brewing, 138 Fern St., Santa Cruz

The Second Annual Santa Cruz Jug Band Festival takes place at multiple locations with free performances, workshops, and sing-alongs across downtown Santa Cruz venues.

Highlights include a kickoff jam at Pono Hawaiian Grill, MAH presentations, Abbott Square concerts featuring five bands, and a Sunday finale at Shanty Shack Brewing.

Contact thetrolleydrops@gmail.com for information.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

FARM TO FORK BENEFIT DINNER AT UCSC FARM

Saturday August 29

4 p.m. reception and farm tours; dinner follows, 7 p.m. dancing, UCSC Farm, 152 Farm Rd, Santa Cruz

This benefit evening at the UCSC Farm features a reception with tours, followed by a locally sourced dinner highlighting produce from the Center for Agroecology and partners.

Guests then move to the Hay Barn for live music and dancing. Proceeds support Farm to Fork and agroecology programs.

More info: eefoley@ucsc.edu or https://events.ucsc.edu/event/farm-to-fork-2026/.

Friday August 7

BEACH COWBOYS AT THE RIVER RUN

7–10 p.m., The River Run at Brookdale Lodge, 11570 Highway 9

The Beach Cowboys bring their high-energy mix of bluesy rock, R&B and funky country rock to The River Run at Brookdale Lodge.

The free concert features danceable classic rock and blues covers, with food available from the Brookdale Diner.

For more info, visit www.facebook.com/TheRiverRunBrookdale.

Saturday August 8

WOODMILL AT HENFLINGS TAVERN

8–11 p.m., Henflings Tavern, 9450 Highway 9, Ben Lomond Santa Cruz Mountains Americana band WoodMill performs a free evening of groove-filled music at Henflings Tavern.

The group features veteran local musicians playing original songs and Americana-inspired sounds.

The kitchen will be open late during the show. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/henflingstavern.

LINE DANCE AT PARK HALL

7–8:30 p.m. (doors open 6:30 p.m.), Park Hall Community Center, 9400 Mill Street, Ben Lomond

Wendy’s Mountain Line Dance leads an evening of easyto-follow dances for beginners and experienced dancers alike.

Guests can enjoy music, meet neighbors and spend time on the dance floor. Beer, wine, soft drinks and snacks will be available by donation.

Everyone is welcome.

For more information, visit https://parkhall.benlomond.org.

SAN LORENZO VALLEY MUSEUM GOLDEN JUBILEE

FUNDRAISING DINNER & AUCTION

6–8:30 p.m., Scopazzi’s Restaurant & Lounge, 13300 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek

The San Lorenzo Valley Museum celebrates its 50th anniversary with a fundraising dinner featuring live music, silent and live auctions, wine and a three-course meal.

Proceeds support museum programs, exhibits, school field trips and local history lectures.

Tickets are $80 in advance. For details, visit slvmuseum.org.

NEW WORKS WEEKEND

8 p.m., Park Hall, 9400 Mill Street, Ben Lomond Mountain Community Theater presents eight original 10-minute plays written by local authors during its annual New Works Weekend celebration.

The evening features community actors bringing new stories from the page to the stage, followed by a talkback with writers, directors and readers. Tickets are $10. For information, visit https://mctshows.org.

GARY BLACKBURN BAND AT HENFLINGS TAVERN

8–11 p.m., Henflings Tavern, 9450 Highway 9, Ben Lomond

The Gary Blackburn Band brings high-energy roots rock, country and blues to Henflings Tavern for a free concert.

The Santa Cruz group blends original songs with familiar dance covers and features veteran local musicians. The kitchen will be open late. For more information, visit www.henflingsslv.com or https:// garyblackburnmusic.com/home.

BLACKSMITH HAMMER-IN

10 a.m.–5 p.m., Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton

The California Blacksmith Association presents its 10th annual Hammer-In, featuring demonstrations that showcase the art and skill of working hot metal.

Visitors can watch blacksmiths use traditional techniques, learn about the craft and connect with artisans.

The two-day event continues through Aug. 15. For more information, visit https://roaringcamp.com.

Sunday August 9

SANTA CRUZ ANTIQUE FAIRE

9 a.m.–5 p.m., Downtown Santa Cruz, Lincoln Street between Pacific Avenue and Cedar Street

The Santa Cruz Antique Faire returns with dozens of vendors offering antiques, vintage clothing, collectibles, unique finds and more.

The monthly event takes place the second Sunday of each month, weather permitting. Visitors can browse one-of-a-kind treasures and vintage items. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/santacruz antiquefaire/#.

Wednesday August 12 thru Friday 14

CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION MEETING

9 a.m., Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley, 6001 La Madrona Dr., Santa Cruz

The California Coastal Commission holds a three-day public meeting to consider coastal development permits, planning issues, enforcement matters and other business affecting California’s coast.

The meeting is open to the public. For agendas and details, visit coastal.ca.gov.

Thursday August 13

FREE BEACH BBQ PARTY WITH THE JOINT CHIEFS

5:30 p.m., Crow’s Nest, 2218 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz

The Crow’s Nest hosts a free beach BBQ party featuring live music from The Joint Chiefs, delicious barbecue and frosty beverages.

Guests can enjoy an evening of music, food and fun along the Santa Cruz waterfront. For details, visit crowsnest-santacruz.com.

Friday August 14

MOE’S ALLEY PRESENTS: AFROLICIOUS

8 p.m., Moe’s Alley, 1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz Bay Area funk-fusion collective Afrolicious brings a high-energy live performance featuring funky bass lines, powerful horns and sounds inspired by funk, disco, Latin and Afrobeat.

Doors open at 8 p.m., with music at 9 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 day of show. For details, visit moesalley.com.

Saturday August 15

NEW WORKS WEEKEND

8 p.m., Park Hall, 9400 Mill Street, Ben Lomond Mountain Community Theater continues its New Works Weekend with eight original short plays created by Santa Cruz Mountains playwrights.

The performances highlight local storytelling and feature community actors, with a discussion afterward featuring the writers, directors and readers.

Tickets are $10. For tickets and details, visit https://mctshows.org.

PENNY & SPARROW

8 p.m. (doors 7 p.m.), Felton Music Hall, 6275 Highway 9 Austin, Texas-based indie-folk and Americana duo Penny & Sparrow will appear at Felton Music Hall. Featuring Andy Baxter and Kyle Jahnke, the duo has built a following with emotional performances and carefully crafted songs.

For tickets and more information, visit https://feltonmusichall.com.

BLACKSMITH HAMMER-IN

10 a.m.–5 p.m., Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton

The California Blacksmith Association continues its 10th annual Hammer-In at Roaring Camp Railroads.

The event features blacksmith demonstrations, hands-on displays and opportunities to learn about the history and techniques behind the craft.

Visitors can watch skilled artisans shape hot metal and share their passion for blacksmithing.

For more information, visit https://roaringcamp.com.

CIVIC AUDITORIUM CONCERT: DIFRANCO & JUNE

7 p.m.–12 a.m., Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St. Grammy-nominated singer-songwriters Valerie June and Ani DiFranco share the stage for an evening of genreblending folk, soul, and Americana.

Known for powerful vocals and socially conscious songwriting, the concert highlights two acclaimed artists with distinct styles.

Expect an energetic live performance at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, featuring songs spanning their acclaimed careers and collaborations.

“Calendar” page 23

Santa Cruz County Grand Jury Finds Local Election System Secure, Recommends More Public Education

By JON CHOWN

SANTA CRUZ — The 2025-26 Santa Cruz County Civil Grand Jury has found that the county’s elections are conducted with complete integrity and without fraud, but recommended more public education about election procedures to reduce skepticism.

In a report titled Election Integrity: An Indispensable System Working Well, the Civil Grand Jury concluded that the county’s Elections Department does just about everything it can to protect the integrity of local elections. The report defines election integrity as a system that allows every eligible person to vote freely, ensures ballots are accurately counted and reported, and includes safeguards to prevent ineligible individuals from registering or voting.

According to the report, there have been no known cases of voter fraud in Santa Cruz County and no local election has been challenged during the past 50 years. The jury cited those facts as evidence that the

“Pedestrians” from page 19

The report recommends more public outreach to explain how residents can report hazards. It also suggests local governments create policies to inspect sidewalks and faded safety markings more actively instead of waiting for complaints.

Because sidewalk repairs can cost thousands of dollars, the grand jury also recommends creating programs to help homeowners pay for repairs. The report

Elections Department provides a “textbook example of election integrity.”

The grand jury reviewed department documents and election manuals, interviewed election officials and longtime observers of local politics, attended poll worker training and served as poll workers during the November 2025 election. Jurors also examined previous Santa Cruz County Civil Grand Jury reports on elections as well as reports from Sonoma, Sutter and Orange counties.

Among the safeguards highlighted by the jury are comprehensive audits of voter registration rolls before and after every election, with registrations cross-checked against state and county records, including death records and Department of Motor Vehicles data. Ballots are mailed only after voter records are verified.

The report also praised the county’s recruitment and training of poll workers, noting that many return election after election, creating an experienced workforce. All poll workers receive in-person training before each election and are provided printed materials and detailed polling manuals. To maintain chain of custody, ballot boxes are always transported to county offices by at least two poll workers.

The jury also emphasized that the county’s voting machines function only as voter aids rather than vote-counting devices. After making selections on the machine, voters receive a printed paper

notes that Watsonville already offers a loan program for sidewalk repairs.

Speeding was another major concern,

The report said higher vehicle speeds greatly increase the chances that a pedestrian will be killed or seriously injured in a crash. Vision Zero encourages road designs that naturally slow drivers by narrowing streets, adding speed bumps and creating separate areas for pedestrians and bicyclists.

The grand jury found that local police departments have limited resources for traffic enforcement. Watsonville has one

ballot that they must review before depositing it into a ballot box.

The report notes that the machines neither record how a person voted nor tabulate votes. Ballot counting is conducted publicly at the Elections Department after polls close, allowing members of the public to observe the process.

For vote-by-mail ballots, every signature is initially verified through machine scanning. Any ballot rejected during that process receives a second scan and visual review by at least two Elections Department employees. According to the report, rejected ballots account for less than 0.001% of ballots during each election cycle.

The jury concluded that these procedures, carried out before, during and after elections, have proven to be effective safeguards against fraud and systemic errors.

officer assigned to traffic enforcement, while the City of Santa Cruz has no officers dedicated only to traffic enforcement. As a result, both cities focus much of their traffic enforcement on driving under the influence.

The report recommends that Watsonville and Santa Cruz police departments review crash data each year to make sure enforcement efforts are properly balanced between impaired driving and speeding.

The grand jury also found that more education is needed for pedestrians.

Although the report strongly endorsed the county’s election processes, it made two recommendations aimed at improving public understanding.

The jury recommended that the Elections Department expand its website by Oct. 31 to better explain the procedures and safeguards used to maintain election integrity. It also recommended adding information explaining how county voting machines work, clearly stating that they neither record votes nor count ballots.

The Grand Jury felt that if the public were given more information about the machines it would reduce skepticism about their use.

The jury also found that the Elections Department faces increasing constraints on space needed to meet legal records retention requirements.

The report recommends that the county clerk conduct an annual review of the department’s space needs and report those findings to the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors beginning with the 2027 budget cycle. n

It recommends that the county’s Health Services Agency expand public education about safe walking habits, including using sidewalks when available, crossing at marked crosswalks, staying alert, making eye contact with drivers, wearing reflective clothing at night and avoiding walking while intoxicated.

The report recommends that the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors, along with the Santa Cruz and Watsonville city councils, direct staff to develop Vision Zero action plans by June 1, 2027. n

SCCAS Featured Pet

‘Old Man’ Thomas

Tomas (A271928) is a typical 7-year-old Border Collie — he has a lot of energy despite being a “middle-aged” pup!

His ideal family will provide daily exercise and mental stimulation to keep him happy and healthy. Some of his favorite activities include playing fetch, going on “sniffaris,” and nosing around a soccer ball.

Tomas previously lived with three children (ages 5, 7, and 9) and was a wonderful, loving companion. He is a sweet, social guy who is adored by all our volunteers. With proper introductions, he also makes friends with other dogs.

Tomas is fully potty-trained. Although he mostly lived outdoors in his first home, he is incredibly social and craves human attention, so he truly wants to live indoors with his new family.

Please note that Tomas has a typical herding prey drive and loves to chase squirrels, so a home without cats is highly recommended.

Tomas’s adoption fee has been sponsored by a good Samaritan.

The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter Foundation is now offering “Pawsitivity Bucks” with every dog adoption. This $200 training voucher is a way for newly adopted canines and their guardians to connect with local positive reinforcement based behavior consultants and get their relationship started off on the right paw!

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” — Please ring bell for stray animal drop-off from 7 a.m. – 11 a.m.) 580 Airport Blvd., Watsonville, 95076 • Hours: Tues.-Sat. 9:30 a.m.–noon; 1–5 p.m. (Closed Sun/Mon — Please ring bell for stray animal dropoff 9:30 a.m.-noon; 1-5 p.m.) Website: www.scanimalshelter.org

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

“Calendar” from page 21

Saturday August 15

LATE NIGHT @ THE MAH: BLACK TIE ROLLER BALL

7 –11 p.m., Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, 705 Front St. This 21+ roller skate and dance party transforms the Solari Gallery at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History into a pop-up rink for a night of music, performance, and costumes.

Guests must wear skates with toe stops or plugs; waivers required. Drinks and vendors available. Visit www.santacruzmah.org for details.

Sunday August 16

DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ MAKERS MARKET

10 a.m.–5 p.m., 1100 block Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz

The Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market features local artists, craftspeople and creators offering handmade goods, artwork, food and unique finds.

The free community event showcases the creativity of Santa Cruz makers in the heart of downtown.

For more information and upcoming market dates, visit https:// scmmakersmarket.com/downtown-santa-cruz-makers-market/.

Sunday August 16

NEW WORKS WEEKEND

2 p.m., Park Hall, 9400 Mill Street, Ben Lomond Mountain Community Theater concludes its New Works Weekend with eight original 10-minute plays by local authors.

The afternoon performance celebrates community creativity and includes a post-show talkback with playwrights, directors and performers. Tickets are $10. For more information and tickets, visit https:// mctshows.org.

Monday August 17

NINA SIMON — MY SISTER IS GOING TO KILL ME

7 p.m.–8 p.m., Bookshop Santa Cruz, 1520 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz

Author Nina Simon presents a reading and signing of her new novel, a family-centered murder mystery about two sisters solving a crime while rafting the Grand Canyon. The event follows her bestselling “Mother-Daughter Murder Night” success and includes audience discussion.

Co-sponsored by The Humanities Institute at UC Santa Cruz.

More information at https://bookshopsantacruz.com.

Wednesday August 19

SCOTTS VALLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING

6 p.m., Scotts Valley City Council Chambers, City Hall, 1 Civic Center Drive

The Scotts Valley City Council will hold its regular meeting to consider city business, hear staff reports and receive public comment on agenda items.

Community members are encouraged to attend and participate.

For the meeting agenda and additional information, visit www. scottsvalley.gov.

Enjoy a night of music and dancing at this Santa Cruz waterfront venue.

Tickets are $8. For details, visit https://crowsnest-santacruz. com/.

Sunday August 23

MIGHTY MIKE SCHERMER AND FRIENDS 60TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

2 p.m., Moe’s Alley, 1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz Mighty Mike Schermer celebrates his 60th birthday with a special performance featuring friends and fellow musicians at Moe’s Alley.

The afternoon show highlights Schermer’s blues, soul and rock influences in a festive celebration of his career and music.

Doors open at 2 p.m., with the show beginning at 3 p.m.

For details, visit moesalley.com.

Saturday August 29

FARM TO FORK BENEFIT DINNER

4–9 p.m., UC Santa Cruz Farm, 100 McLaughlin Drive

The Farm to Fork Benefit Dinner features a reception, farm tours, local wine, appetizers and a seasonal meal highlighting produce from the UCSC Farm and local partners.

Guests can enjoy music, dancing and dessert in the Hay Barn.

Proceeds support farm programs. For details, visit farm.ucsc.edu.

Sunday August 30

COMMUNITY FUNDRAISER BINGO

2:30–8 p.m., Aptos Grange, 2555 Mar Vista Drive

American Sign Language Services Community hosts a bingo fundraiser supporting local nonprofit efforts. The event features bingo games, community fun and opportunities to win prizes. Sunday games run from 3–8 p.m., with additional dates available. Admission is $25 to $40.

For details, contact American Sign Language Services Community. www.aslsc.com/.

KOASTRONG FISHING DERBY AT CAPITOLA WHARF

7 a.m.–12 p.m., Capitola Wharf

This free, family-friendly fishing derby at Capitola Wharf invites anglers of all ages to compete in a weigh-andrelease format with prizes for biggest, smallest, and most fish.

The event honors KoaStrong’s mission supporting childhood cancer prevention and community connection through outdoor recreation.

For details, visit koastrong.org or registration page.

Monday August 31

THE CRUZ ROOM: HOSTED BOARD GAME NIGHT

5–10 p.m., The Cruz Room, 1520 Mission St., Santa Cruz

The Game Night Collective hosts a weekly board game night featuring more than 30 games, guided instruction, hosted featured games and prizes.

© Statepoint Media

Saturday August 22

BOULDER CREEK FIRE DEPARTMENT SUMMER BBQ DINNER & DANCE

5:30–11 p.m., Boulder Creek Fire Station, 13230 Central Ave.

The Boulder Creek Volunteer Fire Department hosts its annual Summer BBQ Dinner & Dance featuring tri-tip and chicken dinners, live music from three bands, dancing, a bounce house and face painting.

Proceeds support rescue and medical equipment for the all-volunteer department.

Tickets are $30. For details, visit bcfd.com.

REDWOOD GROOVE

8 p.m., Crow’s Nest, 2218 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz Redwood Groove brings an evening of live music designed to move and groove audiences at the Crow’s Nest.

Guests can join alone or with friends for an easy way to start playing.

Mic’d board games run from 5–8 p.m., followed by trivia from 8–10 p.m.

For details, visit santacruz.org.

Saturday September 5

BEST OF THE BEST: ALL-STAR FEST

11 a.m.–5 p.m., 831 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz Collective and Double Meat Please present All-Star Fest, featuring a lineup of standout restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, makers, artists and businesses from Santa Cruz and beyond.

The free, all-ages event fills a 20,000-square-foot indoor and outdoor space with food, drinks, shopping and local discoveries.

For more info, visit https://www.collectivesocialclub.com/. n